Afleveringen
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How can God be three and one at the same time?
In this episode of our How Stuff Works series, we explore the mystery of the TrinityâFather, Son, and Holy Spirit. Using real-world discoveries like Copernicusâ heliocentric model and the outdated belief in bloodletting, we show how truth isnât something we inventâitâs something we uncover.
Just like scientists observed the universe and aligned their beliefs with reality, we can observe Scripture and align our faith with how God has revealed Himself.
The Trinity isnât a contradictionâitâs a deep truth waiting to be understood.
đ Join us as we explore how the Trinity worksâand why it matters for your faith today.
đş Watch the full How Stuff Works series for more!
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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Excerpt
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The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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Notes
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Cohabitation before marriage is the new normal in todayâs culture. But what does God actually say about living together before tying the knot? In this video, weâll unpack what the Bible teaches about sexual sin, premarital sex, and how your choices today shape your future marriage.
đĽ Discover:
⢠What the Greek word porneia really means
⢠Why premarital sex IS forbidden in Scripture
⢠How cohabitation impacts trust and future faithfulness
⢠The key principle of love being a choice, not just a feeling
đ Featuring verses from Hebrews, 1 Thessalonians, 1 Corinthians, and moreâthis video calls couples to honor God before they say âI do.â
â Whether youâre dating, engaged, or mentoring someone who isâthis is a must-watch conversation on purity, commitment, and biblical love.
đŁď¸ Join the conversation in the comments: Do you think itâs okay for Christians to live together before marriage?
#ChristianDating #BiblicalRelationships #Cohabitation #PurityCulture #MarriagePrep #FaithfulLiving #PursueGOD
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
Donate Now
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Welcome back to the podcast! The resurrection of Jesus isnât just a historical factâitâs a present-day power source. In this kickoff to our How Stuff Works series, weâre unpacking Ephesians 1:18-20 to explore how the resurrection gives us confident hope, a new identity, and daily strength through the Holy Spirit.
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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How the Resurrection Works
Welcome to Easter and the kickoff to our new series: How Stuff Works. Today, we're not just celebrating a historical eventâweâre discovering how the resurrection of Jesus works in real life. The empty tomb isnât just a symbol of the past; itâs a source of power for today.
Weâre unpacking Ephesians 1:18-20 to explore how the resurrection gives us:
Confident hope for today and eternityA new identity as Godâs prized possessionDaily power through the Holy SpiritSo, how does the resurrection work? It transforms how you live right nowânot just how you feel about death.
Ephesians 1:18-20 (NLT)
I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he calledâhis holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of Godâs power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the deadâŚ
1. The Resurrection Gives Us Confident Hope
We live in a world short on hope. But the resurrection proves that death isnât the end. Our hope isnât wishful thinkingâitâs the deep assurance that God will fulfill His promises.
Temporal hope anchors us during hard times.Philippians 4:13 reminds us that we can endure anything through Christ.Eternal hope assures us that death is not the end.1 Corinthians 15:19 says that if our hope is only for this life, we are to be pitied.2. The Resurrection Makes Us Godâs Inheritance
Ephesians 1 says that we are Godâs glorious inheritance. Thatâs a radical shift! Youâre not just savedâyouâre treasured.
Before: we were dead in sin and âobjects of wrathâ (Ephesians 2:1-3)After: we are Godâs masterpiece, created anew for His purposes (Ephesians 2:10)Jesus didnât rise just to create a holiday. He rose to claim whatâs His: you.
3. The Resurrection Empowers Us for Everyday Living
That same power that raised Jesus from the dead is now available to every believer through the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 1:19-20 and Acts 1:8 point to the Spiritâs power in us.Itâs not about doing one big thingâitâs about daily strength: loving your kids, resisting temptation, staying faithful, sharing your... -
Welcome back to the podcast! Today, weâre wrapping up our âGenerousâ seriesânot with a lesson about money, but about something even more valuable: forgiveness.
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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Forgiveness and the $18 Billion Debt: What Jesus Really Meant in Matthew 18The average American household carries over $100,000 in debt, with over $6,000 in credit card balances alone. Debt is normal in our culture. But imagine this: someone walks up and says, âI just paid off your mortgage, your student loans, your credit cards, your car, and your kidsâ college tuition.â Youâd be speechless.
Now picture yourself turning around and blowing up at someone who still owes you ten bucks from last weekâs lunch. Thatâs the exact contrast Jesus paints in Matthew 18. Itâs extreme. Itâs uncomfortable. And itâs meant to be.
Forgiveness Isn't OptionalâIt's Essential
Matthew 18:21-22
Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, âLord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?â
âNo, not seven times,â Jesus replied, âbut seventy times seven!âPeter thought he was being generous. Jewish tradition taught you only needed to forgive someone three times. So Peter more than doubled thatâand Jesus blew it all out of the water. âSeventy times sevenâ wasnât a numberâit was a mindset. Forgiveness isnât a ritual; itâs a daily posture.
Jesusâ Parable: The $18 Billion Dollar Debt
Matthew 18:23-24 (paraphrased)
âThe Kingdom of Heaven is like a king who called in his debts. One servant owed him 10,000 talents.âIn biblical terms, 10,000 talents is about 200,000 yearsâ worth of wagesâroughly $18 billion today. Jesus was making a point: the debt was absurdly unpayable.
Why so much? The man was likely a tax farmerâsomeone who paid the empire upfront and then overcharged the people to make his profit. Corruption was baked into the job.
Matthew 18:25-27
âSince he couldnât pay, the master ordered he and his family be sold. The man begged for mercy. The master had compassion and forgave the debt completely.âThe Greek word used here for compassionâsplagchnistheisârefers to deep, gut-level mercy. This is the same word used for Jesus in Matthew 9:36 when he looked at the lost crowds and felt moved to act.
The Twist: The Man Who Couldnât Forgive $30,000
Matthew... -
In this episode, Tracy explores the four seasons of marriageâspring, summer, fall, and winterâand how couples can thrive in each one by staying intentional, connected, and rooted in God. Learn how to recognize your current season and respond with wisdom, grace, and faith.
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The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
Donate Now
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The Seasons of Marriage: How to Grow Through Every Stage of Life Together
Marriage, like nature, has seasons. Each one brings its own beautyâand its own challenges. Recognizing the season youâre in can help you lean into God's plan for your relationship, making your marriage stronger and more fruitful no matter the circumstances. Letâs walk through the four seasons of marriage and explore how to navigate them with purpose and love.
Spring: Say "Yes" to Your MarriageSpring is the season of new growth. Itâs often filled with young children, rising careers, and a never-ending to-do list. This can make marriage feel more like a project than a partnership. But in this busy season, couples must learn the power of saying âNoâ to the good so they can say âYesâ to the bestâtheir relationship.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that âFor everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.â That includes making intentional space to invest in your spouse.
Summer: Embrace the Joy of TogethernessSummer brings warmth, connection, and space to enjoy each other. Maybe the kids are older, or the pressures of early adulthood have passed. This is a great time to intentionally deepen your relationship. Enjoy vacations, long talks, and shared hobbies. But don't get lazyâuse this time to keep building a stronger bond.
Song of Solomon 2:10 says, âMy beloved spoke and said to me, âArise, my darling, my beautiful one, come with me.ââ Summer is about pursuing your spouse with intentionality.
Fall: Prepare for ChangeFall often brings transitionsâcareer shifts, an empty nest, or unexpected loss. Change can be stressful and unsettling. Thatâs why this season requires grace, communication, and adaptability. Itâs easy to turn inward during change, but this is when you need each other the most.
Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us: âTrust in the Lord with all your heart⌠He will make your paths straight.â Trusting God together through change can anchor your marriage.
Winter: Fight for Your MarriageWinter is the hardest season. It can bring grief, health issues, financial strain, or emotional distance. These trials are real, but so is God's faithfulness. This is when you fight hardest for your marriageâthrough prayer, counseling, and a commitment to stay connected even when feelings fade.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 says, âA person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer.â Winter is not the endâitâs a chance to build resilience and rediscover why you said âI do.â
Every marriage goes through seasons. The key is to recognize where you are and respond with grace, truth, and intentionality. With God at...
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Luke 2:52 shows Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, but does that mean He had to progress into godhood? The Bible teaches that Jesus has always been fully Godâeternal and unchanging.
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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One of the most fascinating verses about Jesusâ early life is Luke 2:52:
"Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people." (NLT)This verse raises an important theological questionâdid Jesus âprogressâ over time, even spiritually? Some people, including members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, see this as evidence that Jesus wasnât always fully divine. According to LDS teaching, even God the Father was once a man who progressed to godhood, and Jesus followed a similar path. But what does the Bible actually say?
Letâs break it down and compare the LDS view with what Scripture really teaches about the eternal nature of Jesus Christ.
The LDS View: Jesus Progressed to GodhoodIn LDS teachings, Jesus is seen as the âfirstborn spirit childâ of Heavenly Father and progressed to become like God. One key scripture cited is Doctrine and Covenants 93:12â14, which says:
âAnd I, John, saw that he received not of the fulness at the first, but received grace for grace;
And he received not of the fulness at first, but continued from grace to grace, until he received a fulness;
And thus he was called the Son of God, because he received not of the fulness at the first.â (D&C 93:12â14)LDS leaders interpret this to mean that Jesus had to grow spirituallyâreceiving "grace for grace"âuntil He became divine. This supports the broader LDS belief that even God the Father was once a mortal man who progressed to godhood. As stated by former LDS President Lorenzo Snow:
âAs man is, God once was; as God is, man may become.âThis couplet summarizes a core tenet of Mormon theologyâthat God the Father and Jesus Christ both progressed from a mortal state to divine status. But this concept stands in contrast to the Bible's teaching about Jesus' eternal nature.
The Biblical View: Jesus Grew in His HumanityLuke 2:52 shows that Jesus experienced real human development. He grew in body (âstatureâ), in mind (âwisdomâ), in relationships (âfavor with all the peopleâ), and in His connection with God the Father (âfavor with Godâ).
Jesus didnât just appear out of nowhere as a fully grown man. He was born as a baby, raised in a family, and matured over time. This aligns with the Christian understanding of the incarnationâthat Jesus, though fully God, also became fully...
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Welcome back to the podcast! This week, we're continuing our series on generosity. Are you willing to get your hands dirty? Figure out what that meamns in this episode!
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
Donate Now
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Big Idea: Generosity isnât just something you give. Itâs something you live. When we serve others, we reflect the heart of Jesus.
Opening Question:Whoâs the most generous person youâve ever metânot with money, but with their presence, their time, their service?Examples:Ken - oversees benevolence, goes over the topMike and Emma - in their 80âs, pulling weeds at the churchClean team members - washing toilets for JesusSome leadership philosophies say, âDonât get your hands dirtyâdelegate the dirty work.âFrom The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli: Power and control define leadership. Servanthood is seen as weakness.So some have concluded that servants should stay at the lower levelsAnd executives should rise to the top and STOP servingIt doesnât help the organization for them to get their hands dirtyBut Jesus didnât climb some ladder and retreat from people. He stepped down from heaven. He picked up a towel. He washed feet. He gave his life.Thatâs generosity that gets its hands dirty. And thatâs the kind of generosity Jesus calls us to.
Series Recap:Generosity is giving to others through a selfless act without expecting anything in return.
Week 1: The Generosity of GodHe gives love, provision, guidanceâoverflowing.Our generosity starts as a response to His generosity.Week 2: Generous in GivingFinancial generosity mattersâit reflects the heart.But itâs not the whole picture.If we think generosity only happens when we write a check, we miss the life Jesus is calling us to.Todayâs focus: Generosity that takes action. That sees needs and serves. This is about serving others with the heart of Jesus.
Jesus Modeled Generous ServanthoodMatthew 20:25-28 25 But Jesus called them together and said, âYou know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. 26 But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. 28 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.â
The disciples were arguing about status. Jesus reframed it.âWhoever wants to be great must be a servant.â
Jesus didnât just talk about serviceâhe... -
Court and Becca, both inactive Mormons, discuss their experiences with the church and their journey to Jesus. Becca, raised in a more religious family, held onto her faith despite being inactive, while Court, who became inactive at a young age, had no intention of returning.
After having a daughter, Becca felt a sense of urgency to re-engage with the church, leading them to attend services and participate in traditional Mormon practices. They eventually left the church, seeking a more accepting and grace-filled community. Despite initial skepticism, they eventually found a Bible study that rekindled their faith and led them to seek a new church home.
Grace, as defined in the Bible, is a gift from God, not something earned through works. Mormons, who believe in salvation through works, miss out on the true meaning of grace and the forgiveness offered by Jesus.
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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Welcome back to the podcast! Tithing is one of the most debated topics in Christian circles. Many believers have been taught that they must give exactly 10% of their income to the church, often based on Old Testament commands. But is this what the Bible truly teaches for New Testament believers? Let's find out!
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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Letâs explore some common misconceptions about tithing and what God really expects from us when it comes to giving.
Misconception #1: Christians are commanded to tithe.Many Christians believe that tithing is a requirement under the New Covenant, but the truth is that tithing was originally part of the Mosaic Law given to Israel. The 10% tithe had three main purposes:
Support for the Levites (and Temple) â The tithe funded the priestly tribe of Israel, who had no land inheritance (Numbers 18:21-24). Numbers 18:21 â âI give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting.âFestivals and Worship â Part of the tithe was meant to be used for religious feasts and celebrations in worship of God. Deuteronomy 14:23 â âEat the tithe of your grain, new wine, and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God... so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always.âProvision for the Poor â A portion of the tithe was used to help widows, orphans, and foreigners (Deuteronomy 14:28-29). Deuteronomy 14:29 â âThe Levites... and the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns may come and eat and be satisfied, so that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.âSo: The Old Testament tithe functioned more like a national tax than a purely voluntary religious offering.
When combined, these tithes amounted to about 23.3% of a person's agricultural income over a three-year cycleâcloser to a national tax supporting both religious and social functions in Israel. Unlike modern church tithing, which is often seen as an act of personal giving, the Old Testament system was more like a structured government tax ensuring the well-being of the nation.The New Testament mentions tithing in a a grand total of four passages:
Hebrews 7:1-10
Hebrews 7:5-6 (NLT) Now the law of Moses required that the priests, who are descendants of Levi, must collect a tithe from the rest of the people of Israel, who are also descendants of Abraham. But Melchizedek, who was not a descendant of Levi, collected a tenth from Abraham.Context: This passage discusses Abraham giving a tenth to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:20) and connects it to Jesus' superior priesthood. However, it does not command Christians to tithe but rather uses tithing as a historical reference to highlight the greatness of Christâs... -
How feedback is given makes all the difference! This episode covers practical doâs and donâts for correcting with grace, encouraging growth, and keeping communication open with teens. Learn how to balance honesty with kindness and build trust while guiding them toward maturity.
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The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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Giving Helpful Feedback to Your TeenAs parents, we want to guide our teens toward maturity, but how we give feedback can make all the difference. The Bible encourages us to speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:29), which means balancing honesty with kindness. Here are some doâs and donâts to help you give feedback that builds your teen up instead of tearing them down.
The Doâs:Be Kind but Clear â Your words should encourage growth, not just point out flaws. Make sure your feedback is constructive, not critical. (Ephesians 4:29)
Give Time to Process â Your teen might not immediately agree with you. Be patient and trust that your words will sink in over time.
Keep Earning Trust â Build a relationship where they feel safe to hear your feedback. Spend time with them, listen to their thoughts, and engage in their world.
The Donâts:Donât Be Passive-Aggressive â Sarcasm or veiled criticism, even if meant as a joke, can create distance instead of growth.
Donât Be a Nag â Constantly pointing out flaws can make your teen tune you out. Pick your battles wisely.
Donât Lecture â Teens often know what youâre going to say before you say it. Instead of a lecture, invite them into the conversation and let them express their perspective. (Proverbs 22:6)
Giving helpful feedback is about more than just correcting behaviorâitâs about shaping the heart and character of your teen in a way that honors God.
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Welcome back to the podcast! Weâre launching a four-week series on generosity, and hereâs the premise: Christians should be the most generous people in the world. And the evidence backs this up.
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
Donate Now
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Christians Lead in GenerosityResearch from organizations like the Barna Group and Philanthropy Roundtable confirms that Christians donate significantly more to charitiesâboth religious and secularâthan non-religious people. Consider these statistics:
In 2018, secular households in the U.S. donated an average of $1,225 annually, with a median donation of $450.Religious households gave moreâan average of $2,656 per year, with a median of $1,000.The World Giving Index evaluates nations based on helping a stranger, donating money, and volunteering. The 2023 top five are:
Indonesia â Score: 68; 82% donated money, 61% volunteered time.Ukraine â Score: 62; 78% donated money, 37% volunteered time.Kenya â Score: 60; 53% donated money, 51% volunteered time.USA â Score: 58; 61% donated money, 38% volunteered time.The U.S. leads in total foreign aid donations, disbursing $71.9 billion in 2023. It also ranks first in individual charitable giving as a percentage of GDP (1.44%).
Clearly, generosity is a defining mark of believers. But what exactly is generosity?
Defining GenerosityGenerosity is giving to others through a selfless act without expecting anything in return. Letâs break that down:
Giving to Others â This could be financial, relational, or otherwise. In this series, weâll cover:
Week 2: GivingWeek 3: ServingWeek 4: Forgiving
A Selfless Act â Many people are naturally generousâto themselves! But biblical generosity flips the script:
Some are extravagant toward their own material desires but stingy toward othersâ needs.True generosity prioritizes others above personal gain.
Without Expecting Anything in Return â This is the real test.
Do you give in your marriage without expecting something back?Do you parent with an expectation of repayment?Are you friends with people who only take, or do you model generosity regardless?
Godâs Generosity in the BibleGod is the ultimate example of generosity. From creation to salvation, He gives freely, abundantly, and graciously.
Godâs Generous ProvisionGenesis 1:28-30 (NLT): âThen God blessed them and said, âBe fruitful and multiply... I have given you every seed-bearing plant throughout the earth and all the fruit trees for your food.ââ
From the very beginning, God provided everything needed for life. Even after humanityâs failure, He continued to provide, not because of our worthiness, but because of His nature.
Matthew 5:45b (NLT): âFor he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good,...
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Welcome back to the podcast! Lifeâs storms are inevitable, but they are never without purpose. In Acts 27-28, Paul faces a brutal shipwreck, yet through it all, God positions him for greater influence and impact. Join us today as we finish our series on the book of Acts!
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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The Sovereignty of God in the Storms of LifeToday, we conclude our study of the book of Acts by returning to the verse that set the foundation for the entire book:
Acts 1:8 (NLT) â âBut you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhereâin Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.âThroughout Acts, weâve seen this mission unfold. The book began with Peter as the central figure, but in the second half, Paul took the lead. However, the real main character of Acts is not Peter or Paulâitâs the Holy Spirit, guiding and empowering believers.
As we study Acts 27-28, we encounter one of the most famous shipwreck stories in history. More than just an adventure, it teaches us powerful lessons about trusting God in lifeâs storms. We will uncover three key truths that remind us of Godâs sovereignty, even in the fiercest trials.
1. Storms Can Come Even in the Center of Godâs Will
Acts 27:1 (NLT) â âWhen the time came, we set sail for Italy. Paul and several other prisoners were placed in the custody of a Roman officer named Julius, a captain of the Imperial Regiment.âPaulâs journey to Rome, described in Acts 27-28, is sometimes called his fourth missionary journey, though he was technically a prisoner under Roman custody. His earlier missionary journeys had taken him across the Mediterranean world:
First Journey (Acts 13â14): Paul and Barnabas traveled through Cyprus and Asia Minor.Second Journey (Acts 15:36â18:22): Paul extended his mission into Greece.Third Journey (Acts 18:23â21:17): Paul revisited churches and had an extended stay in Ephesus before heading to Jerusalem, where he was arrested.Now, on his way to stand trial before Caesar, Paul encounters a storm unlike any before.
Acts 27:20 (NLT) â âThe terrible storm raged for many days, blotting out the sun and the stars, until at last all hope was gone.âThis moment reminds us that following Christ does not guarantee an easy journey. In fact, trials often come even when we are in the...
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In this episode, Tracy explores a powerful concept that can shape the way you view your marriageâfor better or worse. She discusses Positive and Negative Sentiment Override, a mindset that influences whether you focus on the qualities you love and respect in your spouse or dwell on the things that frustrate or hurt you. Your perspective can either foster a thriving, joyful relationship or lead to a cycle of negativity and despair.
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The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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Welcome back to the podcast! One of the most powerful tools we have as believers is our personal testimonyâour story of encountering Jesus and experiencing His transforming power. In today's episode, we'll look at Paul's approach to this while he stood trial.
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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The Apostle Paul provides a masterclass in sharing oneâs testimony in Acts 25â26 when he stands trial before Governor Festus and King Agrippa. His defense is not just a legal argument but a compelling gospel presentation. Today weâll talk about five steps to sharing your testimony effectively. But first, a couple of introductory comments to set this thing upâŚ
A. Look for Divine Encounters EverywhereSome people wait for the perfect opportunity to share their testimony, but it never comes. They expect a âdivine encounterâ to be obvious and heavenly, but usually itâs just another moment in an otherwise ordinary day. In fact, it could even be on your worst day that God drops an opportunity on your lap. Thatâs what seemed to happen with Paul:
Acts 24:27 (NLT) 27 After two years went by in this way [Paul in prison after being falsely accused], Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And because Felix wanted to gain favor with the Jewish people, he left Paul in prison.
Paul didnât take a break from sharing his faith when he was imprisoned and on his way to Rome for trial. Every step of the way, wherever he found himself, he looked for opportunities to tell people his story - and more importantly the gospel story. Hereâs how he said it to his understudy:
2 Timothy 4:2 (NLT) 2 Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or notâŚ.
Swan - Possibly ref. Peter as well for those who believe they have screwed up too badly to credibly share the Gospel???
1 Peter 3:15 (NLT) âŚAnd if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.
When it comes to sharing your testimony, donât wait for the perfect opportunity. Be ready to share your story on the good days and the bad days. Any moment can be a divine encounter; you just have to be looking for it.
Great conversation starters:
âIf you could have one miracle, what would it be?ââOn a scale from 1 to 10, how close do you feel to God?â
B. Put Yourself in a Seekerâs ShoesPaul was a genius when it came to communicating the gospel to different types of people. He started with his people, the Jews. Then he moved on to the Gentiles. In these chapters heâsâŚ
Acts 25:17-19 (NLT) 17 When his accusers came here for the trial, I didnât delay. I called the case the very next day and ordered Paul brought in. 18 But the accusations made against him werenât any of the crimes I expected. 19 Instead, it was something about their religion and a dead man named Jesus, who Paul insists is alive.
1 Corinthians 9:22-23 (NLT) 22 ⌠Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some. 23 I do...
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Growing up in a devout Mormon family, Holli never imagined she'd question her faithâuntil lifeâs challenges and hidden truths changed everything. In this episode, she shares her journey of doubt, the struggle to balance faith and family, and the beauty of experiencing God's grace.
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
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In this candid episode, Holli opens up about her lifelong journey within Mormonism and the transformation that led her to question long-held beliefs. Raised in a devout Mormon family and having served a mission in Chile, Holliâs early life was steeped in the traditions and comforts of the church. However, as lifeâs trials and a series of eye-opening experiences unfolded, she found herself living a double lifeâphysically present in her community while her heart and mind embarked on a quest for deeper truth.
A Lifelong Bond Turned ChallengingHolli shares that her early years were deeply rooted in the church, with family, mission work, and a strong communal identity serving as her rock. The church not only provided her with a sense of purpose but also defined her identity, making the journey of deconstruction all the more painful when personal loss and hidden truths emerged.
The Moment of UnravelingThe turning point came unexpectedly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discomfort with mandated safety measures and revelations about the churchâs financial interestsâlike its involvement with Pfizerâsparked questions about the institutionâs true nature. As Holli discovered unsettling aspects of church history and policies, her once-black-and-white faith began to blur into a complex tapestry of doubt and revelation.
Balancing Family and FaithOne of the most challenging aspects of Holliâs journey is the delicate balance of staying connected to her childrenâs community while embracing her newfound convictions. Identifying as âpimoâ (physically in, mentally out), she continues to participate in church life for her childrenâs sake, even as her personal beliefs evolve. Her honest approachâattending a local Christian church she loves while gently distancing herself from traditional Mormon practicesâexemplifies the struggle many face when re-evaluating deeply ingrained identities.
Embracing Compassion and ListeningDespite the upheaval in her spiritual life, Holli emphasizes the importance of compassion and open dialogue. Her advice resonates with anyone grappling with the complexities of faith: listen deeply, approach others with empathy, and remain open to the transformative power of truth. She also highlights the additional struggles faced by widowed women in the church, urging for a more inclusive and understanding community.
Moving Forward in FaithHolliâs story is a powerful testament to the challenges of unlearning a lifetime of beliefs and the courage required to forge a new path. As she navigates this transition, her journey invites us all to reflect on our own spiritual paths and the ways we can seek a deeper, more honest connection with God.
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Welcome back to the podcast! Today, we continue our study of Acts with Acts 23-24, discussing how exactly to have a clear conscience! Be sure to rate this show if you enjoy it, God bless you!
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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In Acts 23â24, we find the Apostle Paul standing trial before the Jewish Sanhedrin and later before the Roman governor Felix. Throughout these intense encounters, Paul boldly declares, "I have lived my life before God in all good conscience up to this day" (Acts 23:1). His words and actions in these chapters offer insights into how to have a clear conscience before God.
Q. How do you cultivate a clear conscience?Iâm using âcultivateâ on purpose. Itâs like a tender plant that needs attentionEx: Trying to keep a plant alive or cultivate a gardenIn Greek philosophy, conscience (syneidÄsis) was understood as an internal moral compass, a faculty of self-awareness and judgment regarding right and wrong. This is the fundamental problem with the secular idea of conscience: who gets to decide whatâs right and wrong? Todayâs Oxford defn: an inner feeling or voice viewed as acting as a guide to the rightness or wrongness of one's behavior.Our definition of sin (Pursuit Lesson 4): Sin is going your own way, trusting and acting on your own opinions and feelings instead of on Godâs truth. Hebrew thought associated conscience more with the heart (lev), emphasizing moral responsibility in light of Godâs law. From The Meaning of âHeartâ in Hebrew: the concept of the âheartâ is best understood as the âinner personâ â the seat of our mind (thoughts), emotions (feelings), and will (intentions).In the NT, weâll see today: in light of Christâs work on the cross and the gift of the HS, having a clear conscience is about submitting your whole self â thoughts, feelings, intentions â to the Way of Jesus.Before we get to Paulâs speech in Acts, letâs start with his first letter to Timothy
This gives us good context for what weâll be reading in ActsIt also helps us to understand the value of a clear conscienceItâs not just good for you, your inner lifeItâs also good for the people around you, it impacts your ability to love1 Timothy 1:5 (NLT) 5 The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith.
The purpose = believers would be filled with loveRing a bell? Greatest commandment = LOVEWhere that love comes from:a pure heart, The whole NEW self â thoughts, feelings, intentionsAlready perfected in the court of heaven, not yet here on earthBut the longer... -
Anxiety is on the rise among kids, but as parents, we have the opportunity to guide them through it. In this episode, weâll unpack the common triggers of anxiety, practical ways to help kids cope, andâmost importantlyâhow grounding them in Scripture and Godâs truth can bring peace and confidence in the midst of fear.
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The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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Anxiety is becoming a growing issue among kids today. More children are struggling with worry, stress, and fear than ever before. The pressures of school, social media, and an unpredictable world make it easy for kids to feel overwhelmed. The statistics are concerningâmore than 1 in 10 kids in the U.S. deal with anxiety, and many suffer in silence. As parents, we need to recognize the signs and equip our kids with the tools to manage their anxiety in a healthy way.
Signs of Anxiety in ChildrenKids donât always know how to express what theyâre feeling, so anxiety can manifest in different ways. Here are some common signs to watch for:
Trouble concentrating â Difficulty focusing on tasks at school or home.Nightmares â Frequent bad dreams, especially around big life changes.Irritability â Becoming easily frustrated or upset over small things.Negative thoughts â Worrying excessively or imagining worst-case scenarios.Physical tension â Restlessness, fidgeting, or clenching fists.
Common Triggers of AnxietyAnxiety can stem from different sources, including:
Fear of failure â Worrying about measuring up in school, sports, or family expectations.Social concerns â Fear of rejection or not fitting in with peers.Stranger danger â Natural wariness of unfamiliar people or situations.Past trauma â Emotional scars from difficult past experiences.
How Parents Can HelpNormalize the FeelingLet your child know itâs okay to feel anxious sometimes.Help them name their feelings so they can better understand and process them.Be careful not to let your own anxiety feed theirsâstay calm and reassuring.Some anxiety is normal, especially during big life changes (new school, loss of a loved one, divorce), but pay close attention if it lasts for months.
Encourage Open CommunicationCreate a safe space for your child to talk about their worries.Share your own experiences with anxiety to help them feel less alone.Find moments to connectâsometimes kids open up more during activities they enjoy (e.g., while drawing, playing, or lying on the floor after school).
Face Fears GraduallyInstead of avoiding fears, help your child face them step by step.Prep them for stressful situations by talking through what to... -
Welcome back to the pod! Today weâre talking about discerning the will of God â a popular topic for Christians everywhere. Weâre asking the question, Q. How Do I Know If Itâs Godâs Voice or Just My Own Thoughts?
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
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Itâs easy to fool ourselves when it comes to discerning Godâs will
Jeremiah 17:9-10 (NLT) 9 âThe human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is? 10 But I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives.We all have secret motives driven by the sinful nature.
2 Timothy 4:3 (NLT) 3 For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear.We all have a tendency to do this when looking for direction
Seek out people who say what we WANT them to say
Not necessarily what GOD is really saying to usAnd hereâs the crazy thing: itâs not always false teachers who do thisSometimes itâs our best friends or our loving parentsThatâs what weâre going to see in the text todayItâs a stark reminder that discerning the will of God is a tricky thingAnd while I canât give you a blanket answer for your personal lifeI can give you principles for discerning Godâs willBut first, to the text for today. Weâre actually starting in Acts 20âŚ
Acts 20:22-23 (NLT) 22 âAnd now I am bound by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem. I donât know what awaits me, 23 except that the Holy Spirit tells me in city after city that jail and suffering lie ahead.â
Paul felt like he heard from God on this. âBound by the Spiritâ in Acts 20âcompelled by the Spiritâ in Acts 19Have you ever felt like this? But how do you know itâs really from God? Not an audible voiceGut feeling - could just be a bad burrito from the night beforeThe human heart is deceitfulâŚIt gets even more interesting:
Acts 21:4 (NLT) 4 We went ashore, found the local believers, and stayed with them a week. These believers prophesied through the Holy Spirit that Paul should not go on to Jerusalem.
âThrough the HSâSame HS that âboundâ and âcompelledâ Paul?Seems confusing.And then this:
Acts 21:10-12 (NLT) 10 Several days later a man named Agabus, who also had the gift of prophecy, arrived from Judea. 11 He came over, took Paulâs belt, and bound his own feet and hands with it. Then he said, âThe Holy Spirit declares, âSo shall the owner of this belt be bound by the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem and turned over to the Gentiles.ââ 12 When we heard this, we and the local believers all begged Paul not to go on to Jerusalem.
What the heck!? Even more messages from the HSPause: What... -
Welcome back to the podcast! We've previously looked at seven marks of a healthy church in Acts 2:42, and today we'll revisit that topic. We're going to look at five more marks to help you view your own church, or a church you're curious about, through a biblical lens!
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at [email protected].
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Q. How do I know if a church is healthy?
This is a question we get all the time when people are moving to a new areaWhat should you look for in a church? How do you know itâs functioning biblically?To be sure: there is no perfect church out thereTodayâs message is not intended to be overly criticalBut there are healthy churches and there are unhealthy churchesAnd the litmus test is easier than you thinkNote: We answered this the first time back in Acts 2The question for that lesson was: How Do You Grow a Church?The basic idea was that healthy things growThe seven marks of the early church, a healthy, growing church: baptisms, biblical teaching, authentic community, commitment to prayer, financial generosity, friendliness to outsiders, and dependency on Christ. Acts 2:42-47Today weâre going to answer the question againThis time almost 30 years laterThe events in Acts 2 take place around 30 AD, the year of the Ascension. The events in Acts 20 take place during Paul's third missionary journey, which occurred around 53â57 AD.Paul is sharing his final thoughts with the elders in Ephesus. Weâll extract 5 marks of a healthy church.Acts 20:16-17 (NLT) 16 Paul had decided to sail on past Ephesus, for he didnât want to spend any more time in the province of Asia. He was hurrying to get to Jerusalem, if possible, in time for the Festival of Pentecost. 17 But when we landed at Miletus, he sent a message to the elders of the church at Ephesus, asking them to come and meet him.
Didnât want to be delayed by the church, but sent for eldersI get it! Hard to get out of church sometimes because of all the relationships!So he sent only for the eldersIn a hurry: Probably because he was bringing offering for the believers in JerusalemPaul wrote Romans from Corinth during the timeframe of Acts 20Romans 15:25-27 (NLT) 25 But before I come [to Rome], I must go to Jerusalem to take a gift to the believers there. 26 For you see, the believers in Macedonia and Achaia have eagerly taken up an offering for the poor among the believers in Jerusalem. 27 They were glad to do this because they feel they owe a real debt to them. Since the Gentiles received the spiritual blessings of the Good News from the believers in Jerusalem, they feel the least they can do in return is to help them financially.Pentecost marked the birth of the church (Acts 2)But it probably also - Laat meer zien
