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Send The Parable Podcast a TextWhat's the big deal if you love people who already love you? That's the question Jesus posed to those who gathered to listen to him in Luke chapter six. Today, I would love to share one of my recent messages from our home church, from a series called Questions Jesus Asked. Next week we are back with my 200th episode, we can't even believe it, THANK YOU! Please enjoy this message wherever it may find you today. Sermon Notes:Jesus said, "What's the big deal if you love people who already love you?" Luke 6:32-35Choosing to love the unlovable… that's the big deal. If someone strikes you on one cheek, offer the other cheek too. Luke 6:29 “When we learn to live out the Scriptures the way Jesus lived out the Scriptures, our lives will begin to reflect his Kingdom way of radical love. This counter cultural life will often require us to do the opposite of our natural instincts—instincts that, left unchecked, will only continue to lead to more of the same polarizing, divisive, relationally messed-up stuff we've been experiencing. If we don't choose the opposite, we'll stay stuck in the same patterns and places we keep finding ourselves.Family conversations will remain stifled or fall silent, crippled by the fear of triggering reactions. Friendships will continue to disintegrate as unacknowledged wrongs and unforgiven wounds destroy trust. The most vulnerable among us will continue to suffer while we look the other way and shrink back from getting involved. We will continue to live in the shallows of spiritual maturity, leaving one church after another in search of a place where everyone thinks just like us. We can choose that way. Or we can choose the opposite way of the Kingdom and follow Jesus.” Tammy Melchein – Choosing the Opposite“If you want to be extraordinary, love your enemies! Luke 6:35Excerpt read from The Lives We Actually Have by Kate BowlerReflection Questions:1. Who is someone that kept coming into your head during this podcast, and how can you pray for them?2. Has there been a relationship God has redeemed for you in the past?Want to Enhance Your Conversations?Before you go, could you do me a favor and take my Listener Survey and then in doing so I will send you, "10 basic Tips to Enhance Your Conversations." It will be sent straight to your inbox, and you can keep it on your phone and refer to it anytime you need a little help. #theparablepodcast #yourstorymatters #christianpodcast #hope #whatIlearned #faith Ways to Support The Parable Podcast #1 Subscribe or Follow the podcast to ensure you catch every episode of The Parable Podcast on your preferred podcast platform (such as iTunes, Spotify). #2 Recommend this podcast to a friend, providing a great chance to begin your own Parable Conversation. #3 Looking for a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.
Click here for the SermonClicking here will take you to our webpageClick here to contact usWelcome to the Westside church's special Monday Morning Coffee podcast with Mark Roberts. Mark is a disciple, a husband, father and grand dad, as well as a certified coffee geek, fan of CS Lewis' writings and he loves his big red Jeep. He's also the preacher for Westside church.
Danielle ZapchenkWe are glad you are here. To better serve you, offer prayer, or answer any questions visit https://westridgechurch.com/links.Give online at https://westridgechurch.com/give/ or text "GIVE" to 847-488-1761.West Ridge Community Church | Helping people encounter, embrace and embody the radical love of God.Sunday Services at 9:00 am or 10:30 am in person or onlineLocated at 3300 Encounter Lane, Elgin, IL 60142https://westridgechurch.com/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/westridgeccelgin/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/WestRidgeCommunityChurch/YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMhORy8CFfsyBB3vM5ezFmQVimeo | https://vimeo.com/westridgecc
Scott AlexanderWe are glad you are here. To better serve you, offer prayer, or answer any questions visit https://westridgechurch.com/links.Give online at https://westridgechurch.com/give/ or text "GIVE" to 847-488-1761.West Ridge Community Church | Helping people encounter, embrace and embody the radical love of God.Sunday Services at 9:00 am or 10:30 am in person or onlineLocated at 3300 Encounter Lane, Elgin, IL 60142https://westridgechurch.com/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/westridgeccelgin/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/WestRidgeCommunityChurch/YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMhORy8CFfsyBB3vM5ezFmQVimeo | https://vimeo.com/westridgecc
Lance HurleyWe are glad you are here. To better serve you, offer prayer, or answer any questions visit https://westridgechurch.com/links.Give online at https://westridgechurch.com/give/ or text "GIVE" to 847-488-1761.West Ridge Community Church | Helping people encounter, embrace and embody the radical love of God.Sunday Services at 9:00 am or 10:30 am in person or onlineLocated at 3300 Encounter Lane, Elgin, IL 60142https://westridgechurch.com/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/westridgeccelgin/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/WestRidgeCommunityChurch/YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMhORy8CFfsyBB3vM5ezFmQVimeo | https://vimeo.com/westridgecc
Scott AlexanderWe are glad you are here. To better serve you, offer prayer, or answer any questions visit https://westridgechurch.com/links.Give online at https://westridgechurch.com/give/ or text "GIVE" to 847-488-1761.West Ridge Community Church | Helping people encounter, embrace and embody the radical love of God.Sunday Services at 9:00 am or 10:30 am in person or onlineLocated at 3300 Encounter Lane, Elgin, IL 60142https://westridgechurch.com/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/westridgeccelgin/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/WestRidgeCommunityChurch/YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMhORy8CFfsyBB3vM5ezFmQVimeo | https://vimeo.com/westridgecc
Nika Spaulding Kay Daigle Nika Spaulding joins Kay Daigle for this fun and helpful conversation as she discusses using questions like Jesus. Nika did her doctoral research on this topic and it has changed her perspective of how to disciple others. Whether you disciple your own child, mentor another woman or teach the Bible, this conversation will provide a lot to think about and some practical ideas for implementing questions. Recommended resources Jesus is the Question: the 307 Questions Jesus Asked and the 3 He Answered by Martin Copenhaver What do you Seek? The Questions of Jesus as Challenge and Promise by Michael J. Buckley, SJ The Questions of Jesus: Challenging Ourselves to Discover Life's Great Answers by John Dear Re-Imagining Discipleship: A Theological Perspective BOW podcast with Nika Spaulding You can watch this episode on video. Timestamps: 00:32 This topic is for everyone! 02:19 How did you get interested in this topic? 03:39 Making disciples 06:28 What kinds of questions are we talking about? 12:00 Questions in Jesus' day 22:17 What did your research look like? 26:42 How can we learn to ask questions like Jesus? 38:50 Other resources TranscriptKay >> I'm Kay Daigle of Beyond Ordinary Women Ministries. Welcome to this podcast recording. Our special guest today is Nika Spaulding. Nika >> Hey, friends. Kay >> Welcome again, Nika. Nika >> Thanks Kay. Kay >> Nika is a frequent guest on our podcast and our videos, and we're just always so happy when you're able to join us. I'm particularly excited about this conversation today because you're going to be talking about asking questions like Jesus. And that just sounds so interesting to me. And as I was thinking about it, I thought there are a lot of people who could probably benefit from this. I mean, the first people I thought of were like Bible teachers or people who write curriculum or people discipling other people. Or maybe even parents or counselors. I mean that the more I thought about it, the longer the list got. I just kept thinking of almost everybody. And in any kind of capacity there are times that they want to teach other people and maybe they need to use more questions. Nika >> Yeah, I think you're exactly right. I mean, I started out studying this as a way to help, like, church leaders. And then the more I started studying, the more I thought that this is helpful to me as an aunt and as a parent and as really anyone who wants to love others. Well, I think we have to grow in this skill. And so, yeah, I think the list is very long. But it might be everyone. It could be everyone. Kay >> I'm kind of thinking that it is. I just hadn't gotten that far in my mind. I think I would have eventually gotten there because I just kept adding in small group leaders and, you know, just all sorts of people. So I think that's good. Well, tell me just briefly how you got interested in this topic. Nika >> Yeah, I think it was almost by happenstance. So I'm finishing my doctoral program and of course, you have to write a thesis at the end of your time there. And in the beginning I thought I would do stuff on you know, rhetoric in the ancient world, how we understand Bible reading in the ancient world, I thought about like all these, like, really niche things that I was like super nerdy right up my alley. I wrote a bunch of papers on literacy in the ancient world, like, all these things. And then I realized, you know, wow, that's neat. And it's really fascinating. I more and more thought, I want to create something that can help the church. I wanted to create a tool that does exactly what we were just saying, a tool that can help others. And really the impetus for it was a young woman that I've been discipling for probably 15 years came to me and said, “Hey, how do I disciple others?” And, you know, I kind of looked at it like, “Well, what's, you know, what's the other person going through?
We are challenged to examine our commitment to Christ in the face of adversity. The central story revolves around Jesus' teaching in John 6, particularly the feeding of the 5,000 and Jesus' subsequent declaration as the 'bread of life.' This miracle serves as a backdrop for a deeper spiritual truth: Jesus offers not just physical sustenance, but eternal life. We're reminded that following Christ isn't always easy or popular. Just as many disciples turned away when Jesus' teachings became challenging, we too face moments where we must choose between worldly comfort and spiritual truth. The question 'Will you walk away from Jesus?' resonates throughout, urging us to consider what's truly at stake in our faith journey. Are we seeking Jesus for temporal benefits, or are we committed to Him as the source of eternal life? This message encourages us to stand firm in our faith, even when it's difficult, reminding us that Jesus alone has 'the words of eternal life.'
Click here for the SermonClicking here will take you to our webpageClick here to contact usWelcome to the Westside church's special Monday Morning Coffee podcast with Mark Roberts. Mark is a disciple, a husband, father and grand dad, as well as a certified coffee geek, fan of CS Lewis' writings and he loves his big red Jeep. He's also the preacher for Westside church.
In this powerful message, we're challenged to examine the depth of our faith through Jesus' profound question: 'Who do you say I am?' This isn't just about intellectual assent, but about core convictions that shape our actions. We explore the concept of three types of convictions - public, private, and core - and how they manifest in our lives. The message emphasizes that true faith isn't just about what we say we believe, but how those beliefs transform our daily actions. Using the story of Peter's declaration and subsequent denial, we're reminded that even sincere beliefs can be shallow. The key is developing a faith that expresses itself through love, aligning our core convictions with God's kingdom rather than our own. This journey begins with a relationship with God, continues through learning from His Word, and involves ongoing trust - even when it's scary. Like a trapeze artist letting go and trusting the catcher, we're called to let go of anything that comes before God and trust Him completely.
In this powerful exploration of Jesus' first recorded question, we dive into the transformative power of a simple inquiry: 'What do you want?' This question, posed to Andrew and John in the Gospel of John, invites us to examine our own hearts and motivations in our pursuit of Christ. As we journey through this passage, we're challenged to move beyond superficial desires and truly seek to know Jesus intimately. The progression from being known by Jesus, to knowing Him deeply, and finally to making Him known to others mirrors our own spiritual growth. This message reminds us that encountering Jesus should never leave us unchanged. It calls us to reflect on what we truly want from our relationship with God and encourages us to invite others to 'come and see' the Messiah, just as Andrew did with his brother Peter. How might our lives change if we allowed Jesus to transform our wants and reshape our identities, as He did with Simon Peter?
Part 1: "Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?" Stay up-to-date with the latest on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uscchallenge/ Find out more about the ministry on our website: https://uscchristianchallenge.com/home
Part 2: "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?" Stay up-to-date with the latest on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uscchallenge/ Find out more about the ministry on our website: https://uscchristianchallenge.com/home
Click here for the SermonClicking here will take you to our webpageClick here to contact usWelcome to the Westside church's special Monday Morning Coffee podcast with Mark Roberts. Mark is a disciple, a husband, father and grand dad, as well as a certified coffee geek, fan of CS Lewis' writings and he loves his big red Jeep. He's also the preacher for Westside church.
Jesus asked over 300 questions in the gospels. He knew the power and promise of a good question. Lean into the questions Jesus asked, and explore some of the hardest questions you asked. Luke 6:27-36.
Jesus asked over 300 questions in the gospels. He knew the power and promise of a good question. Lean into the questions Jesus asked, and explore some of the hardest questions you asked. John 5:1-9.
Jesus asked over 300 questions in the gospels. He knew the power and promise of a good question. Lean into the questions Jesus asked, and explore some of the hardest questions you asked. John 1:35-42.
Rev Lindsey Hall preaches on John 21:15-17 and 19 The post “Questions Jesus Asked: Do You Love Me” appeared first on First United Methodist Church-Brighton & Whitmore Lake.
Rev Jon Reynolds preaches on Matthew 6:2534 The post “Questions Jesus Asked: Why Do You Worry” appeared first on First United Methodist Church-Brighton & Whitmore Lake.
When Jesus asks a question, He's saying something. Join us as Pastor Steve unpacks the third week in our series, "Questions Jesus Asked."
The Questions Jesus Asked: A Question about Faith Luke 18:1-8 Dr. Stuart Bond February 16, 2025
Click here for the SermonClicking here will take you to our webpageClick here to contact usWelcome to the Westside church's special Monday Morning Coffee podcast with Mark Roberts. Mark is a disciple, a husband, father and grand dad, as well as a certified coffee geek, fan of CS Lewis' writings and he loves his big red Jeep. He's also the preacher for Westside church.
Rev Lynn Hasley preaches on Mark 4:35-41 The post “Questions Jesus Asked: Why Are You Afraid” appeared first on First United Methodist Church-Brighton & Whitmore Lake.
Jesus isn't interested in fans. He wants followers. Join us as Pastor Steve unpacks week two of our series, "Questions Jesus Asked." When Jesus asks a question, He's saying something.
Certified Lay Servant Bruce A Stark preaches on Matthew 14:22-33 The post “Questions Jesus Asked: Why Did You Doubt” appeared first on First United Methodist Church-Brighton & Whitmore Lake.
When Jesus asks a question, He's saying something. Are we listening? Join us as Pastor Steve Lister opens our new series, "Questions Jesus Asked".
Rev Lindsey Hall preaches on Matthew 16:13-17 The post “Questions Jesus Asked: Who Do You Say I Am” appeared first on First United Methodist Church-Brighton & Whitmore Lake.
Click here for the SermonClicking here will take you to our webpageClick here to contact usWelcome to the Westside church's special Monday Morning Coffee podcast with Mark Roberts. Mark is a disciple, a husband, father and grand dad, as well as a certified coffee geek, fan of CS Lewis' writings and he loves his big red Jeep. He's also the preacher for Westside church.
Take-Home Notes: “Who Do You Say That I Am?”Key Scripture:“But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “God's Messiah.” — Luke 9:20Main Points:Jesus' Transformative Questions:Jesus asked over 300 questions during His ministry, often leaving them open-ended to spark reflection and transformation.Today's focus: “Who do you say that I am?”The question isn't just about correct knowledge—it's about the impact your answer has on how you live your life.Three Types of Questions Jesus Asked (from Magrey deVega):Factual Questions: Straightforward answers (Who, What, When, Where, etc.).Interpretive Questions: Encouraging deeper thought and opinions.Evaluative Questions: Calling us to examine the impact of the answer on our hearts, minds, and lives.Peter's Answer:Peter boldly declared, “You are the Christ of God.”While the answer was factually correct, Jesus urged Peter (and us) to let the truth change how we live.Living the Answer:Believing Jesus is the Christ means reorienting our lives to reflect His kingdom values:Selflessness: Deny yourself and take up your cross daily.Service: Extend mercy and love to others, just as God has shown mercy to you.Sacrifice: Be willing to give up personal gain for the sake of others and the kingdom.Faith in Action:Jesus calls us to love our neighbors and even our enemies, live generously, and seek justice.The true marker of discipleship is not being “right” but being known by our love.Reflection Questions:Who do you say Jesus is in your life today?How does your answer shape your actions, priorities, and relationships?What is one way you can reflect Christ's love, generosity, or justice this week?Call to Action:Join us in the Questions Jesus Asked study on Wednesdays at 5:45 PM in the Seymour Building.Take time this week to meditate on Luke 9:20 and ask yourself, “What would Jesus have me do?”
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This week, we examine a question that Jesus asks us: Why are you so afraid? The disciples find themselves in a frightening situation and fail the test of faith. How do you respond when your faith is tested? Join us as we seek to grow in our faith.
This week we explore the profound question Jesus poses to His disciples after a challenging teaching moment. As many turn away, He asks, “Are you also going away?" Are we truly following Jesus, or are we tempted to walk away when His teachings become hard to understand?
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This week, as we continue our series, we'll take a look at a simple question that has profound implications that exposes the heart of every believer if we simply dare to answer.
This podcast offers a reflection on the last question we will explore in our series of The Questions Jesus Asked. This one comes from Matthew 6:27, "Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?" In this passage we may even discover an antidote to our preoccupation with worry. "What worries you, masters you." - John Locke
Matthew 6:25-34 - Jesus commands us not to worry. Do we really believe this?