Watermark Radio: The Porch Channel

Team Sports

Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Ephesians 4 calls us to live in unity and work together as one body, or one team. Unity requires us to be humble, gentle, and patient with each other, and to proactively resolve conflicts. It also requires commitment, as you cannot be part of a team until you join it.

The Mysteries of God

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

God works in mysterious ways. Through a small nation of chosen people, He provided a Savior and a Gospel that would allow all people to intimately know Him. Though perfect and powerful, God empowers imperfect people to spread that good news to others. And though believers may experience suffering, that suffering can be their greatest opportunity to trust Christ and display His truths to the world.

Included

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

We all want to belong somewhere and to fit in with the "in crowd". Jesus has broken down the walls that separate us, and has built us an earthly home within the church body - a church which we ourselves are an essential part of.

The Living Dead

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Until being made alive in Christ, every one of us is considered dead in sin. Though physically alive, those who follow the ways of this world and the desires of their sinful nature are described in Ephesians as being spiritually dead in sin. GodÃ�ï¿½Ã�Â¢Ã�Â¯Ã�Â¿Ã�Â½Ã�Â¯Ã�Â¿Ã�Â½s grace alone can bring us out of that death and into true life, allowing us to follow His ways and experience His plans for us.

Our Abba

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Ever feel like you should be "doing better" in your walk with God, and that you need to pray more, read the Bible more, or behave better? This focus on performance can lead us to miss the fact that God loves us immensely, and has chosen us and sacrificed for us so that we can be His children and His heirs. Our relationship with God is to be one where we can tenderly call him "Abba, Father."

Power Through Prayer

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Since God is all-powerful, praying to Him is the single most strategic thing we can do to change this city for Him. As His children, and as believers who live in a relationship with Him, we can confidently approach God in prayer. Ask God to use you to accomplish His purposes, and it is guaranteed that He will.

Chosen by God

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Ephesians 1:3-14 teaches that we, as believers, have been chosen by God and adopted as His children. We are not chosen because of who we are, what we have done, or what we are capable of doing; rather, God chooses us because of who He is, what He has done for us in Christ, and what He plans to do through us with His Holy Spirit.

A Movement of Truth

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The story of the early church in Ephesus illustrates how the Gospel can transform a city, and how we can be part of a movement to do the same in Dallas today. We can each have a huge impact on those around us, but only if our own lives are first transformed by the truth contained in Scripture.

What's the Real Reason?

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

All of us are experts at deceiving ourselves. We lie to ourselves in order to justify doing what we really want to do, leading to the decisions we later regret. When we bring those lies into the light and examine our true motives, that truth can set us free to make the right choice.

Raised

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0600

The Gospel is not just that Jesus died on a cross for the forgiveness of sins; it is that He then rose from the grave to live again. This truth of the resurrection applies to our own lives, as we are to put to death our old sinful selves and then live as new creations. John Elmore talks in practical terms about how we can be freed from slavery to sin and daily choose to live with Christ.

The Ultimate Honeymoon

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Right now, you are in the process of becoming who you will be in the future - for better or for worse. In this final episode of the series, we talk about the unwanted baggage that people can bring into the marriage bed. We then look at God's original plan for marriage, and how it gives us a picture of His ultimate plan for us.

Sexual Freedom

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

How do we find freedom from the trap of sexual immorality? The pleasures that we initially want the freedom to pursue often end up enslaving us, in a cycle that we seem powerless to stop. There is hope - and true freedom - when we realize who we are in Christ, the price that has been paid for us, and the steps required to break the cycle.

Reckless Driving - Sex Gone Wrong

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

In this epislde we define sexual immorality from the Bible and look at how it impacts Dallas Singles today. Healing from the reckless ways of premarital sex, pornography and masturbation starts with surrender.

Same-Sex Bonding

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we hear the story of one of the leading authorities on the theology of homosexuality. This is a must-listen for all parents and anyone who struggles with sexual sin. This is also a great resource for anyone who has loved ones in the gay lifestyle. Ricky Chelette does an excellent job explaining that nature of sexual struggles and their origin. He has an amazing message of hope and shows, from the scriptures, God's design for sex.

SEX: The Problem of Pleasure

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

It seems that while God's goal for us is holiness, our goal for ourselves is pleasure. Sometimes these objectives point us in the same direction. In this episode, however, we see that in reference to sex as a single person, these goals war against each other.

Finding Life Through Faith

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0600

Listen how the faith of three men sustained them in the most difficult of situations as we examine Daniel 3 and observe three things that always happen as a result of living by faith. We can say we trust in the Lord; we can believe we trust in the Lord, but if we do not actually put our trust into action, we are missing out on the true life that comes through our faith.

Satisfied with Christmas

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Why did God come to live here? How did so many people who were anxiously waiting His arrival miss it? How do we prioritize work, worries, and woes over Christmas?

Satisfied in Suffering

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode of the "Satisfied" series, we take a look at the source of our satisfaction, we ask why we should be satisfied in and through suffering, and we discuss the kind of suffering that we should never be satisfied by.

Satisfied with the Father... Through Faith Like a Child's

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Many of us are missing a small yet significant aspect of our relationship with God as we grow in maturity. This small thing is having faith like a child. Saving faith and greatness in the Kingdom of God are described as being that of a child. What has to happen in your life so that you can become more child-like in your faith with the Father?

Satisfied with Your Talents

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Are you happy with how God has made you? Is He happy with how you are using the gifts He gave you? When we don't like the gifts we've been given, too often we miss the reason we have them.

How to be Satisfied

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Have you oftentimes heard that we should be satisfied in Jesus, and thought to yourself, "What does this even mean? How do I do that?" In this episode, we will define what it means to be truly satisfied, how God does satisfy, and practically how we find this in God.

Living Unsatisfied

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Why do we expect to be satisfied in a place that wasn't meant to satisfy us? Why do we pray for a life that doesn't need God? We see an altogether different calling in scripture, a calling to set aside the things of the world and live with eternity in mind. This episode calls us to trade in an ordinary, worldly life for His extraordinary Kingdom.

The Greatest Story Ever Told

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Every now and then you hear a story that must be retold. The Gospel is just that: the greatest story EVER told, the unstoppable force that changed the world. In this episode we explore this story, the story each of us has been given, and why we have to open our mouth and tell this life-changing, true story.

These are the Days to Know God's Word

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

What is the Bible? Can it be trusted? What do I do with it? In this episode, Watermark Equipping Pastor Blake Holmes will answer these questions and more. Watch/listen to find out why these are the days to know Godâ��s Word.

These are the Days to Have Life

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

These are the days to determine if we have life - eternal life. This life is found in Christ alone by believing in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The evidence in our lives that helps us know that we have this life is a right and growing belief and a right and growing behavior. Do you have the life of Christ within you? Today is the day to answer that question!

These are the Days to Take Advantage of Being Young

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Todd examines ten "these are the days" statements that cover nearly every aspect of the young adult's life. These exhortations include where life can be found, how life should be lived, what to do with your life now, what will absolutely become of your life later, the most important question you have to answer in life, and what you should be doing with today in light of all of it all.

These are the Days to Love

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

There's no time like the present, and we are promised no time but the present. In this episode we examine how we as believers are to live in these days. The church of Christ is one that has shaped not only eternity but history, and today the Church has an opportunity to resist what is "natural" by walking by the Spirit to serve and love in an extraordinary and "unnatural" way!

What a Beautiful Mess

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Love can be one of the most powerful motivators in life. However, sometimes this good desire is perverted by our inability to wait patiently for it. When our lustful desires overwhelm our patience we are often left in a mess that can only be cleaned up with the strength of God.

Redeeming Dating

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

We may know Christians should date differently than the world, but do you know why? Is it merely obedience, fear of consequences, or something else? In this episode, we start at the beginning, realizing what we were created for and how this should impact the way in which we do everything.

Anything is Possible

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

God takes our junk and uses it for His glory and our good when we walk in the light. This is Victor Marx's amazing story. Victor is a leading black belt who was recently indoctrinated into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He balances skills and humility in telling the amazing journey God has had him on.

Happily Ever After

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

We've been pressured to find our prince charming or rescue our princess since we were children. In this episode we look at how this pressure has impacted us. Jonathan examines specific challenges Porch leaders have observed in their peers regarding relationships. We also discuss finding a spouse with minimal heartache and what it means to live "happily ever after".

Baggage Claim

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Whether we like it or not, we are all in part products of our upbringing. Even if we had great parents, we still adopt some of their sin patterns as our own. More than likely our parents have been the greatest influence on the way we love others. In this episode we look at the importance of checking baggage, both our own baggage, and the baggage of a potential spouse. While we may try to hide our baggage through different methods, the solution to our baggage is found at the cross.

LOVE: Know How?

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Deep inside us all is a desire to love and to be loved. This is a great thing but when we chase the emotion instead of learning what it means to love, we can set ourselves up for a great deal of pain. It is important to understand love as God has defined it, so we can both love this way and find someone who will love us this way. Regardless, God loves us like this and desires that we love Him like this in return.

An Educated Buying Decision

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Many single people want to be married. Choosing a spouse is one of the most important decisions we will make in life. It seems, however, that many search aimlessly for one that they can share life with, rather than knowing what God has said is important. As we kick off a new series, we look at some things to inspect before you "buy".

Generosity: The Conclusion

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

As we conclude this series on Philippians, we see one of the reasons for Paul's deep affection for the church in Philippi, one that had generously met his needs while other churches ignored them. In this episode we see how generosity should mark the life of a Christ-follower.

The "Who"

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

n Exodus 33 God tells Moses that He will not go with the Israelites to the Promised Land. This is startling news to the leader of the Israelites and Moses' response to this news is nothing short of remarkable. Looking at one interchange between God and Moses, we get a glimpse into the heart of Moses and witness one of his core beliefs about God: anywhere with Him is better than anywhere without Him.

The Secret of Contentment

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In Philippians 4 we see how discontentment starts in the mind as Paul exhorts us to think about praiseworthy and excellent things. This thinking leads to living that is in step with Paul?s example. This passage teaches us that contentment has nothing to do with what we have and everything to do with how we think and live. Paul reveals to us here the secret of contentment.

The Gospel of Peace

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The book of Philippians is marked by the theme of joy, reminding us to fix our eyes on Jesus. In chapter 4, verses 1-7 we see how the peace of God transforms our identity, our relationships, and our perspective.

Coming Home

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

According to the Bible, Christians find themselves in a world that is not there home. However, the temptation for most of us is to try and make this world our home. In this episode we take a look at Paul's word to the church in the city of Philippi in Philippians 3:15-21. Specifically examining what he says it looks like and does not look like to live as citizens of our ultimate home, and to live for home even while we are away from it.

Pursuit of the Prize

Tue, 31 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

We love to commemorate our accomplishments with trophies, medals, and memorabilia. We love to compete for a prize. Too often, however, this desire overflows into our faith and our actions toward God become a performance. When this happens it is important to remember the prize that we are actually pursuing.

5 Characteristics of Christian Young Adults

Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In this passage we watch Paul describe the faithfulness of two young adults who cared for him while he was incarcerated. Philippians 2:19-30 offers us five characteristics that mark the young adult who is following Christ. Are these characteristics true of you?

A Shining Faith

Tue, 17 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In Philippians 2:12-18, Paul says that we are to have a faith that is displayed. This is the working out of our salvation, showing our faith by the way we live and react to life's circumstances. We should live a life consistent with Christ's character not in order to be saved, but because we are. In doing this, we stand apart from the world like stars against a dark night.

The Way to the Throne

Tue, 10 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Deep inside all of us is a desire to be great. If we use this desire to pursue greatness for us, the results can be eternally tragic. However, if we humble ourselves and allow this desire to push towards Him who is ultimately great, then we will experience ultimate greatness. This path, however, travels through the cross, and many miss it.

A Leveraged Life

Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Paul seems delusional in his response to suffering and opposition. Or maybe he has something figured out. In this episode we will look at Philippians 1:12-26 and talk about how Paul's perspective allowed him to leverage his circumstances for the Gospel. We see how Paul had his mind set on eternity, which allowed him to hold this world very loosely. Paul had his hope set on the right things.

Step Into the Movement

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode we set up the book of Philippians and cover the first 11 verses. We look at how a healthy church was born out of three unsuspecting and very different converts. We also see Paul's deep affections for the church at Philippi and how he prayed for their spiritual growth while promising that God is going to finish what He's started.

Clues Around the Crucifixion

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

What do Adam, Leviticus 16, Abraham, and The Passover have to do with the crucifixion? A lot. This episode is a must for anyone who wants to better understand the importance of Jesus on the cross and how understanding this event changes who you are. Please listen or watch and see how this event has changed the lives of twenty young adults in Dallas.

A Big Dad

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Gary Stroope shares how growing up and being raised by humans affects us in positive and negative ways. We need to acknowledge hurt and negative impacts in order to move forward and move towards the perfect father.

Awesome God

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

We say we serve an awesome God but do we even understand what that means? Our selfishness is often the enemy to our understanding just how awesome God is. In John 3, John the Baptist says that God must become greater and that he (John) must become less. When we have a right understanding of how awesome God is, we fall into place and serve Him.

What's Your Mission Statement?

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode we discuss three key components for creating a mission statement for your life. Within our mission, God wants us to be intentional about connecting with others, treasure Christ above all else, and to never give up in our relationship with God.

Unfair/Untrue

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

This episode addresses one of the biggest objections that people have to Christ and His message: that is seems in many ways unfair. However, just because something seems unfair doesn't mean its untrue. According to the Bible, moreover, the last thing we want is fair, but thankfully we serve a God who decided to go way beyond fair and extend mercy.

Objection Overruled

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Oftentimes people have objections to Christianity. The interesting thing about these objections is that working through them is generally not the way seekers put their trust in Christ. There are answers, and questions should certainly be asked. But more important than having answers to all of your questions is knowing God. In this episode we look at how knowing Him (through Jesus) is more important than being able to explain God.

Materialism

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0600

Of the celebrated sins, this is possibly the one most relevant to Dallas. Materialism corrupts our doctrine, our contentment, and our desires. In 1 Timothy 6 we read that we are to pursue God and the things of God above all other things. These are eternal investments with eternal rewards, and are infinitely better than the things of this world. We are to desire eternal things and invest in eternal things, and through Christ we find freedom from materialism.

Approval of Man

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0600

People-pleasing is celebrated in our culture. Whether it is a popularity contest, a desire to be recognized, or a fear of disappointing others, these are struggles that the Bible addresses. In this episode we look at how this is a trap that we can get stuck in and how it comes from a misunderstanding of God. God, however, helps us out of this trap as we trust in Him.

Control

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0600

This is possibly the most celebrated of all the sins we will cover. The world screams at us to be in control of our lives. The Bible, however, has a very different message. It tells us that we are not in control and ultimately as believers we come under God's control. Jeremiah 17 testifies to the death that comes from self-reliance and the life and abundance that come from surrendering to God. God is in control, whether we acknowledge it or not. We might as well pursue His plan.

Anxiety

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0600

The Bible commands us not to worry, to be anxious or to fear. This, however, is much easier said than done. In this episode we look at how anxiety is celebrated in our culture and why a loving God tells us that we should be free from anxiety. As we look at famous words of Jesus we see the source of anxiety and the solution to worry.

Under the Influence

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode we discuss morality as the product of a right understanding of the freedom we receive from Christ. We are all influenced by different things, but the scripture calls us to fight the current of the world and be under the influence of His Holy Spirit. This is a natural occurrence for those who have been born of the Father. As the first in a new series entitled "Celebrated Sins", and this episode on Romans 8 positions morality not as something we pursue for morality's sake, but rather the result of a right relationship with God.

Cartoon Christmas

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode we review the signs God gave to foretell Jesus' coming, the fulfillment of all such prophecies, God's magnitude, and how He gave up everything to know YOU. While we often dismiss the Christmas story as nothing more than a child's tale, the historical reality of Jesus' arrival means everything. We talk through the Christmas story to be reminded of the truth and significance of Christ's arrival in a manager and how we should respond.

Hell

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode we discuss the misconceptions around hell, and what the scriptures say it is like. We will also look at many people's objections to hell and better understand why hell is necessary to understand God's goodness and the debt He paid for us.

Our Greatest Desire

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0600

The greatest desire of our hearts is for our God. There is a continual thirst and hunger for "more" that exists in all of us. The Bible says that this hunger and this thirst have been placed within all of us. And because they are a hunger and thirst for our God, only He can satisfy it.

Lespwa Means Hope

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Jeremy tells us a story of building an orphanage in Haiti and his encounter with the earthquake. Now he has started a ministry that raises awareness of Haiti's needs. This is a powerful message of hope and what happens when we step out in faith and God meets us there. You can find more information at www.Lespwameanshope.org.

Islam and Christianity

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Afshin Ziafat, a former Muslim, walks us through the basics of the Islamic faith starting with a brief history of the origin, and a look at what Muslims believe and why. He shares the objections that a Muslim might have to the Christian faith, and ultimately why he chose to place his faith in Jesus Christ, a decision that cost him greatly.

The Exclusivity of Faith

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

There are evolving ideas that many ways can lead to the same God or that everyone will be saved. While they my sound appealing and may even be taught in churches, when researched they are not supported by the truth of the Scriptures. It is important for us to know how to give a defense to our faith and understand why we believe we are correct in pursuing salvation through Jesus Christ alone.

Remember

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Many times in life we continue to get burned from the choices we make. Choices that do not lead to life but only to death. God desires for us to experience the fullness of life, not only in Heaven but here on earth as well. In this episode we'll focus on the fundamental yet profoundly glorious truths that we have to KNOW, TRUST and REMEMBER if we are going to experience the life that God has for us through Christ.

Waiting and Dating

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Dating talks are great, but what do you do when you are not dating? What do you do when you desire to get married but you are stuck waiting with no prospects? In this episode we'll discuss ways to make the most of your singleness, prepare for marriage, and what to look for in a spouse. This episode won't be a typical talk about dating but rather waiting from the perspective of Paul, Jesus, Abraham and more!

Prayer and Healing

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

James ends his letter with an exhortation to pray. This message will provide a clearer understanding of what he means by "pray for the sick" in the context of the rest of his letter. Hear personal testimonies of how lives have been radically changed by God's response to the prayers of His people.

Love, Give and Serve

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Aschalew Abebe, country director of the Kidmia Foundation, a child transition center serving the orphans of Ethiopia, gives a challenging message about the simplicity of the life Christ calls us to. It is an easy truth to understand, but a difficult one to live out. Be encouraged and challenged by God's call to all of us to get out of our comfort zones and to expand our understanding of what it means to live a life of loving, giving and serving.

Waiting for Judgment

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Jesus has come once and He is coming back, but what is the role of the Christian while waiting? James tells us what it looks like to be steadfast in waiting, steadfast in suffering, and steadfast in living until Christ's return. In this episode we talk about the problem with evil and a biblical understanding of why God is waiting to deal with evil. We look at the consequences of not considering the things to come, and why Christ's return is such an important truth that should shape how we live.

The Dark Eye and the Despair that Comes with It

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The lens with which you see the world will greatly affect the things that you pursue. Since the beginning of man, we have looked for life in all wrong places while hoping to maintain a relationship with God. Jesus tells us to find life in Him. In fact, He says that He is the life (John 14:6) and He came so that we may have abundant life (John 10:10). In this episode hear how God loves you and desperately wants a relationship with you. Everything else is fleeting! What is coming between you and God?

How are Your Salt and Light?

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Mike Mahon, Celebrate Recovery Director, takes a close look at Matthew 5:13-16 and offers practical applications for exploiting the good things in your life for the glory of God.

Center

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In this message our guest, Broken Voices, asks the question, "What is at the center of your life?" Andrew states that when God is at the center, we realize how off-center the world is. However, when we put anything else at the center, our lives quickly become off balance.

Wealth Wasted on You

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

James is chastising the wealthy of the land. It is difficult to imagine that this letter is written to the Christian church because it contains such harsh rebukes. In this episode we look at what James has to say about wealth then, and what eternal truths we can apply to our lives in Dallas today. Wealth stored up or spent flippantly is wealth wasted.

Your Agenda vs God's Agenda

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

James says it is arrogant to presume upon the future. Doing so assumes some control on our part. He points out that a right perspective comes from understanding that God is the One in control and that He has things prepared for us to take part in. In all things we should acknowledge God so that we have a right perspective in this life; knowing we were created by God, for God.

An Ambassador to Opposite Living

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

God calls us to live opposite of the way the world. The way we handle money, time, relationships, authority, and decisions are clear tells of what we value and whether we are living according to the World's wisdom or God's wisdom. But living opposite to the world's wisdom is not all God desires. He has appointed us as ambassadors to a lost world to share this truth.

Hungering for the Word to be Satisfied by Christ

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Everybody wants to be happy! All of us desire prosperity, joy and satisfaction. But many times we are confused by what it means to be truly prosperous and successful. Psalm 1 teaches us that true prosperity and success is knowing God, which comes from delighting in and diligently pursuing Christ. How are we doing at hungering for the Word of God and not feasting on the things of the world, so that we can be fully satisfied by Christ?

The Battles We Face

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Battles are going on all around us. James starts chapter 4 talking about the battle that is within us that causes conflicts around us. Then he moves on to address the battle that we face as Christians living in the world. He makes the bold statement that to be friends with the world we are God's enemies. He tells us, however, that we can overcome these battles with humility and complete surrender to God.

Wisdom

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

James talks about two kinds of wisdom, wisdom from God and wisdom form the world. He says that worldly wisdom is no wisdom at all but that it is actually demonic. Godly wisdom is born out of humility, acknowledging that we were created by a Creator for His purpose. Worldly wisdom leads to division, disorder, and all sorts of evil practices because it is born out of envy and selfish ambition. James describes what Godly wisdom looks like. Are you wise?

Words Matter

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Your words define who you are and where you go. Words are powerful and James says our words can be poisonous and bring much devastation. With our mouth we praise and put down; however what comes out of our mouth defines what is in our heart.

Faith that Does

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

James and Paul seem to disagree on how a person is "justified". In this episode we look at an even more controversial text and learn why it is very consistent with the rest of the Bible. A workless faith is a worthless faith and an actual faith is an active faith.

The Sin of Favoritism

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

We are trained by the world to use people. We seek out people who can do something for us, instead of seeking out people who we can do something for. In this text God commands us not to show favoritism and He puts this offense on par with murder and adultery. Instead, He calls us to care for those who can do nothing for us in return.

Word in the World

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

James talks about a religion that is worthless and devoid of the word of God. God desires to speak to us. But we are in this place full of distractions where it can be very difficult to understand His commands, and more difficult to live them out. But when we do, we find life and have a religion that God receives.

Temptation: The Birthplace of Sin

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In this episode we will wrestle with a difficult theological truth that has significant applications for our lives as young adults in Dallas. Temptation happens when we acknowledge that we have a choice to sin or to honor Christ. The type of temptation that we talk about this week is an internal struggle. Although giving in to it leads to sin, James tells us how we can have hope in these trials and have victory over temptation.

Faith in Trials

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Life is hard. Yet God calls us to have a joyful attitude in the most difficult of circumstances. Many Christians hear this and feel the need to fake it, but James shows us why joy should be our attitude, and how that attitude is possible. In this episode we learn how to persevere when the going gets tough, and where to go when we are down and out.

Hidden

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Scripture says that we should be hidden in Christ, hidden in the community of other believers, and hidden in relationships with others. As we dive into this text we take a closer look at what this means for us, and how we can live out these commands, and leverage our singleness for the glory of God.

Going Up the Mountain: Obedience that Might Kill You

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Mike talks about obedience that will bring peace, that will kill the things you hate about yourself, and that might get you killed. Recounting the story of Rachel Scott, the first person killed at Columbine, and a story from Exodus 19, Mike challenges the audience to "go up the mountain" in trust and obedience to God.

When God Came Down

Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In Exodus 3:1-6 Moses has an experience with God that would not only change his life, but would later alter the course of history. It all started with God coming down to talk with him in the form of a burning bush. After a lot of questions, Moses listens and agrees to carry out what God wants him to do. The question for us is, "Will we listen?"

Stephen's Story

Tue, 18 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Stephen?s story is one that is filled with adventure and risk. God has called us to live lives that are filled with risk and danger. But whenever we risk much, we will encounter obstacles and the response is up to us.

Life with Friends

Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

We all desire to belong to something. Too often we satisfy this desire with surface-level friendships that can't weather conflict or hard times. Scripture calls us to live in community with other believers. We see this incredible bond of friendship between Jonathan and David and also in the first century church. In this episode we'll discuss the benefits of this bond and how to make it part of our lives.

David's Adventure of Trust

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

David trusted God in the little things of a shepherd boy. He trusted God in times of adversity, and he even entrusted his revenge to God. David also trusted God in times of disaster. This trust allowed David to live a life full of adventure. In this episode, we learn from the man after God's own heart.

Feeding the Fire

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

We miss out on the abundant life Christ offers us when we give into pornography, masturbation, sexual promiscuity, and a need for the attention of the opposite sex. Lust is a desire that cannot be satisfied, but can be starved to a point of control. God promises us aid when we resist this sin. In this episode we discuss ways to fight this fire and find a greater satisfaction in Christ.

Abundant Life in Singleness

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Bible says that being single is a good thing, but too often our culture says the opposite. Why would the apostle Paul elevate singleness to such a high status? When we make marriage or relationships idols in our lives, we miss out on the abundant life that God intends for us. We are placing something in front of Him and missing out on the relationship that should be ultimate. In this episode we discuss how to use our singleness for its intended purpose.

Lured Away

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

John 10 tells us there is an enemy that wants to steal from and destroy us, keeping us from the abundant life that Christ desires. In this episode we look at the different sources of temptation and one specific lure that the enemy uses to bait and hook us. We will also consider some ways to resist this bait and continue in the abundant life that God desires for us.

Distractions to Abundant Life

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In the first episode of this series, we defined an abundant life as one where we are locked in on Christ and not easily tempted away from Him. This week we will look at how and why we are tempted to pursue pleasures in ways never meant to fulfill us. How can we remain locked in on the Good Shepherd.

The Ultimate Life

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Do you believe that the most abundant life comes through a relationship with Christ? Do you believe your life as a Christ-follower is more abundant than the life of a celebrity? As Christians we often say this, but many Christians struggle to quantify their own abundant life without religious platitudes and cliches. In this episode we'll talk about why the ultimate life starts with God.

No Leftovers, No Lack

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Generosity is a word thrown around today in a variety of circles as celebrities throw fundraisers for various causes and philanthropy of various kinds is celebrated in the media. But is this evidence of true generosity or does God have something else in mind when He calls us to be generous? Look with us at six principles of generosity from God's Word and how they might govern our use of the resources and very lives God has given us.

Why We Work

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Everyone wants their "dream job". Too often, however, our "dream job" becomes a nightmare. In this episode we examine what scripture says about why we should work. The results are surprising to most, and the reasons God gives us to work are very different than the reasons that the world gives. Furthermore, pursuing employment for the world?s motives will leave us too often washed out and hopeless.

A Prayer of Humility

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0600

King David had come to the end of his rope because of decisions he had made in his life. After a night filled with lust, and the murder that soon followed, David has only one thing to hold on to. To come humbly to his God. And it's the prayer he prayed out of a heart filled with humility that we discuss in this episode.

Adopted in Dallas

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0600

How would your life be different if you really believed God were your Father? If you are a follower of Christ, you have been adopted into his family. In this episode we will explore the far-reaching implications of this simple truth.

Forgive

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Forgiveness sounds easy to talk about, until we have someone forgive. As Christ followers, we must forgive one another so that we can experience true freedom. When we look to what Christ has done for us on the cross, we have no right to hold on to bitterness. Forgive. Let God deal with the results and be free.

God with Us

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0600

We all face hard times as we try to live out our lives for Christ. However, even in the most challenging circumstances of hardship, temptation, and even death, we must remember that if we have a relationship with God through Christ that we are never alone. Like, Joseph, we have the ability to make the right decision no matter the circumstances surrounding us.

Conform

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0600

We are all in the process of becoming something. We are all heavily influenced by our surroundings. Sometimes this change happens in us so slowly that we don?t realize what we are becoming until we get there. When this city beckons us to conform to its ways, Christ calls us to be transformed to His. But how?