Are You Equipped

This detailed discussion explores Jeremiah 16, emphasizing God's judgment, the importance of obedience, and the significance of trusting in God's promises. It highlights biblical insights on God's character, prophecy, and the call for believers to live faithfully.

We appologize for todays audio. Some unexpected technical issues but we have them corrected for next time.This episode explores the profound messages in Jeremiah 15, highlighting God's judgment, Jeremiah's faithfulness, and the importance of trusting in God's power and promises. It emphasizes the significance of prayer, repentance, and active engagement with Scripture in our spiritual journey.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired Pastor Lee Graves explore Jeremiah 14, focusing on God's judgment through drought, false prophets, and the importance of trusting in God's Word. They discuss biblical themes of repentance, false teachings, and living as children of light in a fallen world.

Join Pastor Paul Karsten and retired Pastor Lee Graves as they explore Jeremiah 13, focusing on God's vivid object lessons, the symbolism of the linen belt, and the spiritual lessons about pride, obedience, and God's judgment. This episode offers deep insights into biblical prophecy, faith, and the importance of humility in our walk with God.

This episode explores the profound questions of justice, prosperity of the wicked, and God's plan as seen through Jeremiah 12, Job, Habakkuk, and Psalms. It offers biblical insights into understanding God's justice, the prosperity of the wicked, and how believers can trust in God's sovereignty amidst life's challenges.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves look into Jeremiah 11, exploring the themes of God's covenant with Israel, the consequences of disobedience, and the importance of faithfulness and prayer. They discuss the historical context of Israel's rejection of God, the warning against idolatry, and the significance of God's jealousy. The conversation emphasizes the need for obedience and the role of prayer in maintaining a relationship with God, while also addressing the consequences of turning away from Him. Ultimately, they highlight God's sovereignty and the call for believers to trust in His plans and purposes.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired Pastor Lee Graves explore Jeremiah chapter 10, discussing the contrast between the living God and lifeless idols. They emphasize the importance of true worship, the dangers of idol worship, and the need for trust in God. The conversation also touches on community engagement, the significance of scripture, and the role of prayer in seeking correction and guidance from God. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to deepen their faith and understanding of God's Word.

In today's episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired Pastor Lee Graves look into Jeremiah 9, exploring themes of lament, judgment, and the importance of a genuine relationship with God. They discuss the weight of sin, the consequences of deceit, and the necessity of a circumcised heart. The conversation emphasizes God's steadfast love and justice, the power of the tongue, and the call for believers to actively engage with scripture to transform their lives.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired Pastor Lee Graves peer into Jeremiah 8, exploring themes of God's heartbreak over His people's rejection, the consequences of false teachings, and the importance of repentance. They discuss the wisdom of God versus human wisdom, the severe consequences of sin, and the hope for restoration through a genuine relationship with God. The conversation emphasizes the need for active engagement with scripture and the transformative power of faith in the believer's life.

Join us as we explore Jeremiah 7:1-34, a chapter that’s all about tackling the false sense of security that the people of Judah had in their rituals and traditions. Jeremiah steps into the temple with a powerful message, challenging the idea that mere religious practices can replace genuine obedience and relationship with God. He lays it all out, pleading with the people to reflect on their ways and turn back to what truly matters. It’s a wake-up call, filled with stark warnings about the consequences of spiritual complacency and the corruptpractices that have taken root. Join us as we unpack this rich passage together, diving into how it challenges us to look beyond our routines and truly seek a vibrant, authentic connection with God.

This episode of "Are You Equipped?" studies Jeremiah Chapter 6 by showing its emergency warnings about Jerusalem's upcoming punishment because the entire population turned against God's teachings. The hosts Paul Karsten and Lee Graves demonstrate what happens when people fail to notice divine messages through their depiction of how city rulers and citizens embraced corruption and fake religious practices, which resulted in divine anger and a need for spiritual correction.

Join us for the first episode of a new as we begin a new Podcast series called the Pastor's Notebook.Link for Steven Marshalls message from January 4, 2026: https://vimeo.com/1151628833?fl=ip&fe=ecIn this episode of the Pastor's Notebook, Paul Karsten and his guests explore the intricacies of sermon preparation, focusing on the themes of worry, joy, and the importance of prayer. They discuss how personal experiences shape their messages and the significance of spiritual disciplines in preaching. The conversation emphasizes the need for pastors to model faith in their lives and the transformative power of scripture in overcoming anxiety. Through practical applications and personal anecdotes, the hosts encourage listeners to engage deeply with their faith and find rest in Christ.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired Pastor Lee look into Chapter 5 of Jeremiah, exploring themes of justice, repentance, and the consequences of turning away from God. They discuss the call for individuals to seek truth and justice, the role of prophets, and the importance of true worship. The conversation emphasizes God's desire for a relationship with His people and the need for genuine repentance in the face of judgment. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with Scripture and deepen their faith journey.

The Christmas season is a time of joy, hope, and reflection, especially as we dive into the heartwarming story of Jesus's birth found in Luke 2. In this special episode of the Are You Equipped podcast, hosted by Pastor Paul Karsten and joined by Pastor Steven Marshall, we explore the rich themes of hope, joy, and redemption woven throughout this timeless scripture.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten, retired pastor Lee Graves, along with Loren Weideman explore Jeremiah chapter four, focusing on God's urgent call for repentance among His people. They discuss the historical context of Israel and Judah, the consequences of disobedience, and God's desire for faithfulness and restoration. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal testimonies, the nature of God's judgment, and the hope that comes from turning back to Him. Through engaging discussions and reflections, the hosts encourage listeners to actively engage with Scripture and embrace their faith journey.

In this episode, we explore the themes of infidelity and restoration as depicted in the book of Jeremiah. The conversation looks into God's yearning for a renewed relationship with His people, emphasizing the importance of repentance and the consequences of idolatry. The hosts discuss the historical context of Israel's unfaithfulness, the metaphor of divorce, and the call to return to God. They highlight the significance of true worship, the power of confession, and the lessons that can be learned from Israel's history. The episode concludes with a message of hope and encouragement for believers to engage actively with Scripture and embrace their faith journey.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired Pastor Lee Graves look into into Jeremiah 2, exploring the themes of Israel's spiritual decline, the consequences of idolatry, and God's unwavering faithfulness. They discuss the importance of repentance, self-examination, and the dangers of turning away from God. The conversation emphasizes the need for believers to recognize their relationship with God, the significance of His discipline, and the hope of restoration through faithfulness.

In this conversation, Paul Karsten discusses the themes of judgment, redemption, and the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus. In todays episode we continue our journey into the Book of Jeremiah.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves kick off a new series on the Book of Jeremiah where they will explore its historical context, the divine calling of Jeremiah, and the significance of God's word. They discuss the nature of prophecy, the assurance God provides to His prophets, and the call to obedience and good works for all believers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with scripture and recognizing God's sovereignty in our lives.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves explore the Book of Ruth, focusing on the themes of redemption, faith, and God's sovereignty. They discuss the significance of Boaz as a Kinsman Redeemer, the role of community in the redemption process, and the implications of the genealogy that connects Ruth to King David and ultimately to Jesus. The conversation emphasizes the importance of faith in Christ as the ultimate Redeemer and the unfolding of God's plan through ordinary lives.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and Lee explore the Book of Ruth, focusing on the themes of redemption, obedience, and God's provision. They discuss the pivotal moments in Ruth's story, including her obedience to Naomi, Boaz's role as a kinsman redeemer, and the legal implications of redemption. The conversation emphasizes the importance of faith, the blessings that come from giving, and the overarching narrative of Christ as our ultimate redeemer. Through their discussion, they encourage listeners to engage with Scripture actively and to trust in God's timing and provision in their lives.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves look into the second story of the Book of Ruth, exploring its themes of trust, redemption, and God's unwavering love. They discuss Naomi's strategic plan for Ruth, the dual perspectives of human and divine narratives, and the significance of rest in Christ. The conversation highlights the importance of the harvest, the role of the church, and the implications of the Day of the Lord. They conclude with reflections on the rapture and the future wedding feast of the Lamb, emphasizing the call to live in faith and trust in God's plan.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves open the Book of Ruth, exploring themes of faith, obedience, and the significance of relationships. They discuss Naomi's bold plan for Ruth to approach Boaz, the concept of rest in Christ, and the importance of obedience and humility in the Christian journey. The conversation highlights the cultural context of Ruth's actions, the role of the Kinsman Redeemer, and the spiritual implications of their story for believers today. Ultimately, they emphasize the call to serve and bless the Lord while trusting in His timing and plan for our lives.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired Pastor Lee Graves explore the themes of faith, provision, and redemption through the story of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz. They discuss the significance of Boaz as a kinsman redeemer, the importance of community, and the character traits that define a life of faith. The conversation emphasizes the need for trust in God's plan and the blessings that come from living a life aligned with His teachings.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten, retired pastor Lee Graves and there special studio guest, Pat Karsten open up the third story in the Book of of Ruth, exploring themes of divine provision, the role of the Kinsman Redeemer, and the significance of faith and trust in God's timing. They discuss the importance of women in Scripture, the concept of rest in Christ, and the call to serve within the community of faith. The conversation highlights how Ruth's journey reflects God's grace and the unfolding of His plan through unexpected figures in the lineage of Jesus. In this conversation, the discussion looks at the importance of embracing opportunities presented by God, the expectation of service in using one's gifts, and the call to discipleship and spiritual growth. He emphasizes the significance of navigating relationships, particularly with those who are unequally yoked, and finding rest in Christ amidst life's burdens. The discussion also covers the transformative power of serving others, the joy of sacrifice, and the importance of covenant relationships with God. Paul highlights the need to reject idols, pursue Christ, and understand the promise of eternal life and future rewards. The conversation concludes with reflections on the significance of meals and communion, the implications of the church age, and the necessity of living out one's faith daily.

In this episode Pastor Paul Karsten and Lee Graves explore Ruth 2:1-13. The story shifts from despair to unexpected hope as Naomi’s daughter-in-law Ruth steps into the fields—not as a victim of circumstance, but as someone intentionally seeking provision and a future. This passage reveals not only Ruth’s daring resilience but also God’s providence at work through the humble act of gleaning. It’s a story about God’s favor appearing in the most unlikely places, turning a simple act into a turning point. As Ruth finds herself in the field of Boaz, we’re invited to consider how divine kindness often comes quietly, woven into everyday moments, offering us glimpses of hope and the promise that even in hardship, there’s a plan unfolding.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired Pastor Lee Graves open the "second story" of Ruth, exploring themes of loss, divine discipline, and the significance of commitment. They discuss Naomi's journey back to Bethlehem, the implications of Ruth's loyalty, and the broader narrative of Israel and the Gentiles. The conversation emphasizes the importance of faith, obedience, and the transformative power of God's Word in the lives of believers.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves explore the profound themes of loss, loyalty, and faith through the story of Ruth and Naomi. They discuss Naomi's journey back to Judah after experiencing deep loss, the cultural dynamics of family and commitment, and the significance of Ruth's unwavering loyalty to Naomi. The conversation emphasizes the importance of maintaining a spiritual perspective amidst trials and the transformative power of faith in God.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves go back to the Book of Ruth, exploring its themes of loss, loyalty, and redemption. They discuss the prophetic layers within the story, the significance of obedience, and the consequences of disobedience. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the feasts and festivals in relation to Jesus, as well as the sovereignty of God in the lives of His people. The hosts emphasize the transition from judgment to testimony for Israel and the significance of numbers in Scripture, ultimately encouraging listeners to actively engage with God's Word.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves delve into the Book of Ruth, exploring its themes of loss, resilience, and redemption. They discuss the significance of God's loyal love, the concept of rest in faith, and the consequences of human choices. The conversation highlights the importance of family, the role of women in the biblical narrative, and God's unwavering faithfulness amidst disobedience. Ultimately, the discussion emphasizes the hope of redemption for all, showcasing how grace and God's love can transform lives.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and his guests explore the second chapter of Acts, focusing on the birth of the church during Pentecost. They discuss the significance of the Holy Spirit's arrival, the early church's devotion to teaching and fellowship, and the importance of worship and prayer. The conversation emphasizes the role of community in faith, the purpose of miracles, and the growth of the church as a result of genuine devotion to God's Word.

In this episode, we explore the second chapter of Acts, focusing on the arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and the subsequent sermon by Peter. The discussion shows the significance of the Holy Spirit's indwelling, the responses of the crowd, and the call to repentance and baptism. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, the power of the Holy Spirit in evangelism, and the simplicity of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. The episode concludes with a call to engage with God's Word and live out one's faith actively.

In this episode we explore Acts chapter 2, focusing on the explosive birth of the Christian church through the arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Then discuss the significance of this event, the transformation of the early believers into a committed community, and the miraculous manifestations that accompanied the Holy Spirit's indwelling. The conversation moves into the implications of the law, the role of miracles, and the importance of language in spreading the gospel. We also reflect on the exponential growth of the church and the call for believers to actively engage in their faith journey.

In this episode of 'Are You Equipped?', Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves delve into the first chapter of the Book of Acts, exploring the transition from the Gospel of John to the early Church's formation. They discuss the significance of the Holy Spirit's empowerment of the apostles, the structure and purpose of Acts, and the importance of understanding the context of Jesus' ascension. The conversation also touches on the selection of Matthias as a replacement for Judas and the joy found in trials through faith. The episode concludes with encouragement to engage actively with Scripture and to find purpose in one's faith journey.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves explore the final chapter of the book of John, focusing on the disciples' return to fishing after the resurrection of Jesus. They discuss the miraculous catch of fish, Peter's restoration after denying Jesus, and the importance of following Christ's command. The conversation emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers and the significance of actively engaging with Scripture in one's faith journey.

Jeb and Ryder review the Youth Sunday sermon on sin.

In this episode, we explore John chapter 20, focusing on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. We discuss the significance of Mary Magdalene's encounter at the empty tomb, the role of women in the resurrection narrative, and the importance of faith in understanding the events surrounding Jesus's resurrection. The conversation emphasizes the transformative power of the resurrection and the hope it brings to believers. In this conversation, Paul Karsten explores the themes of the heavenly tabernacle, original sin, the cleansing of sin through Jesus' blood, the role of the Holy Spirit in salvation, and the importance of obedience and baptism. He discusses the doubts of the disciples following Jesus' resurrection and emphasizes the necessity of faith in the unseen. The conversation culminates in the understanding that belief is a gift from God, granted through the Holy Spirit, and that the disciples were commissioned to spread the gospel despite their initial fears and doubts.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves open up the depth of John chapter 19, exploring the themes surrounding the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. They discuss the tension between Pilate's political power and moral responsibility, the mockery Jesus faced, and the crowd's demand for his crucifixion. The conversation highlights the spiritual battle at play, the nature of sin, and the significance of prophecy in the events leading to the crucifixion, ultimately connecting Jesus' sacrifice to the Passover. In this conversation, they look into the intricate details surrounding the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They explore the timing of Jesus' crucifixion in relation to the Passover lamb, the significance of Good Friday, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. The discussion also highlights the voluntary nature of Jesus' death, the implications of his time in the grave, and the bold actions of Joseph of Arimathea in burying Jesus. Throughout the conversation, the importance of understanding the Jewish calendar and the relationship between Jesus and his followers is emphasized, providing a comprehensive view of these pivotal events in Christian faith.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves explore the gripping events surrounding Jesus' arrest, trial, and the choices made by those involved. They explore the themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the sovereignty of God, emphasizing the significance of Jesus' actions in the Garden of Gethsemane and the implications of the choice between Jesus and Barabbas. The discussion highlights the spiritual battle believers face and the importance of embodying true worship in everyday life.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired Pastor Lee Graves dive into John chapter 17, where Jesus prays for unity among His followers, emphasizing His role as intercessor and the profound importance of prayer in a believer’s life. They explore themes such as Christ's humanity, the need for sanctification and accountability, and the transformative power of aligning with God's will. The conversation also addresses the challenges of pride and division within the church, urging Christians to embody love and unity while recognizing their access to God through Jesus and the guidance of scripture in fostering a strong faith.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten explores the meaning of Palm Sunday, emphasizing its significance in the context of prophecy and the expectations of the people. He explores the nature of Jesus' mission, contrasting the crowd's enthusiastic response with the skepticism of the Pharisees. The discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their own expectations of Jesus and the depth of their faith, inviting them into a transformative relationship with Him.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves unfold the truths found in John 16, exploring the themes of the Holy Spirit's role, the challenges faced by the disciples, and the promise of joy amidst sorrow. They discuss the importance of prayer, the conviction of sin through the Holy Spirit, and the assurance of peace that Jesus offers to His followers. The conversation emphasizes resilience in the face of opposition and the transformative power of faith.

Today's episode explores the profound relationship between faith and action, emphasizing that true faith compels believers to serve others and overcome fears. Through biblical examples and practical insights, the discussion encourages listeners to embody their faith in tangible ways, fostering a community of support and love.

In this conversation, Pastor Paul Karsten and retired pastor Lee Graves explore the themes of abiding in Christ, the importance of glorifying the Father, and the challenges believers face in a world that often opposes their faith. They discuss the significance of prayer, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the call to love one another as central tenets of the Christian faith. This conversation emphasizes the necessity of remaining connected to Christ to bear fruit and fulfill God's purpose in their lives, while also preparing for the inevitable persecution that comes with being a disciple of Jesus.

In this episode, we explore John 15, focusing on the themes of abiding in Christ, the role of the Holy Spirit, the importance of prayer, and the challenges of persecution faced by Christians. We discuss how believers are called to bear fruit, maintain a relationship with God, and support one another in faith. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding God's will and the necessity of remaining connected to Christ for spiritual growth and strength. In this conversation, we explore the metaphor of the vine and the vinedresser, emphasizing the Bible as a practical guide for action in the lives of believers. We discuss the significance of being grafted into the family of Christ, the process of bearing fruit, and the importance of abiding in Christ for spiritual growth. The conversation also delves into the concept of pruning, illustrating how God nurtures believers to produce more fruit for His kingdom, while assuring them of their salvation and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. In this conversation, we explore the themes of spiritual growth, the concept of pruning in a Christian's life, and the importance of abiding in Christ. We emphasize that pruning is not about elimination but about enabling new growth for service to the Lord. The discussion also highlights the role of believers in bearing fruit, the consequences of not abiding in Christ, and the eternal security of believers. The conversation concludes with a message of hope and the importance of producing fruit in one's spiritual journey.

In todays episode we explore John 14, focusing on Jesus' teachings about the role of the Holy Spirit, the mission of the disciples, and the nature of faith and miracles. We discuss the importance of prayer, obedience to Jesus' commandments, and the empowerment of believers through the Holy Spirit. The conversation emphasizes the significance of living out one's faith and the transformative power of God's word. The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the life of a believer, emphasizing the importance of understanding scripture, spiritual growth, and obedience to God's commands. We explore the significance of context in biblical interpretation, the assurance of salvation through the Holy Spirit, and the call to discipleship as part of the Great Commission.

In this episode, we explore the critical topic of overcoming pride and rediscovering God's grace. We begin by defining pride and its roots, illustrating how it manifests in various forms. The conversation delves into the deceptive tactics of Satan, God's response to sin, and the balance of justice and grace. Practical steps to combat pride are discussed, emphasizing self-reflection, prayer, and community support. The transformative power of God's grace is highlighted, we are encouraged to embrace our weaknesses and rely on God's strength.

In this conversation, we explore the teachings of Jesus in the book of John, focusing on the new commandment of love, the significance of holiness, and the glorification of God through Jesus. We discuss the importance of enduring trials in faith, the nature of Jesus' sacrifice, and the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. The conversation emphasizes the hope of resurrection and the assurance of eternal life, encouraging listeners to be ready for Christ's return and to embody the love of Christ in their daily lives.

Equipped for Community addresses the feelings of isolation many experience in a world that emphasizes individual achievement. Pastor Paul Karsten emphasizes the importance of authentic relationships, confronting individualism, and the power of service in building community. Through biblical references and practical advice, we can engage meaningfully with others, prioritize vulnerability, and serve selflessly, ultimately fostering a supportive and connected community of believers.

In this episode, Pastor Paul Karsten explores the profound truths found in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, emphasizing the transformative power of Scripture in our lives. He discusses the authority of God's Word, its practical applications for daily challenges, and the importance of continuous spiritual growth. The conversation highlights how Scripture equips us for good works and encourages a lifelong journey of learning and faith, ultimately empowering listeners to live out their purpose in Christ.