Conversation with Dan Podcast

John is definitely the most different among the four gospel accounts. So what is John trying to tell us? John makes clear that the miracles were more than just a showing of power. He does this by describing the signs of Jesus and what those signs meant. John also introduces us to a host of witnesses, including himself to help reveal more about the life of Jesus and his teachings. As always, if you have questions about this book or others we have covered, please comment or email us with anything you would like us to follow up on in a future video.

As we continue studying the big picture point of a book in the Bible, we have come to the book of Ezekiel. He saw the weel. He saw dry bones come alive. He played war games in the dirt. He was carried by his hair to a vision to look in on the Temple. But what does it all mean? Is there even a single message of this priestly prophet? Ezekiel is a large book with a lot to process, but if you want a hint - read the last verse and then join us for this week's discussion. Scripture References: Ezekiel, Revelation 21:1-3

This week we continue our new series of videos in our Conversations with Dan. We are going to get down to the main point of a book and explore what in that book can clue us in to finding that main point. This week, we are going to dive into the book of Revelation. We encourage you to continue sending in any questions you may have related to our weekly topics or any you would like us to cover in the future. Especially in this book, we can't cover everything in roughly 15 minutes, but hopefully, this main point will help you understand some of the other details.Scripture References: Revelation, Daniel 7, Daniel 12:1

This week we start a new series of videos in our Conversations with Dan. We are going to get down to the main point of a book and explore what in that book can clue us in to finding that main point. We encourage you to continue sending in any questions you may have related to our weekly topics or any you would like us to cover in the future.

You are teaching a Bible class or quoting scripture to a friend and you say "Jesus said in Matthew 5..." Wait, should you have said, "Jesus says?" Were you implying the words of Jesus are only historical sayings? How does any of that relate to the passage in Hebrews 4:12? It's always fun to see how a simple thought or question really can enhance our appreciation of God and his Word when we look into it a bit deeper.Scripture References: Hebrews 4:12, 1 Peter 1:24-25, Deuteronomy 31:24-26, Isaiah 55:10-11, Jeremiah 31:31-40, Matthew 26:28, Hebrews 3:7, Revelation 1:16-18, Revelation 19:11-16

Have you ever prayed for God's guidance in a situation and followed through, only to find that the outcome is much worse than what you expected? Was that Satan stealing the prayer or pushing you toward the wrong choice? This was a great question that led to more discussion on free will, God's plan, and how the spirit is at work within the individual. Please, follow along with Dan and Jed and reach out with any further questions or comments you have.Scripture References: James 1:5-7, 2 Chronicles 17, 2 Chronicles 18, Ephesians 2:20, Ephesians 3:5, James 1:19-22, James 2:8, James 4:13-17, Romans 8:12-14, Galatians 5:16:26, Genesis 50:1-2

You may have heard a lesson on how sins of the old covenant were "rolled forward" until the death of Christ. Is that what the Bible actually says? Where did that concept come from? More importantly, what does this question point us to about the nature of God? Let's dive into this question to explore what it means to have a just and forgiving God.Scripture References: Numbers 14:19, Mark 2:5, Leviticus 4:20, Psalm 32:1-5, Romans 3:23-26, Hebrews 9:15, Galatians 4:4-7, Ephesians 3:1-6, 1 Peter 1:10-12, 1 Corinthians 2:9

Most of us were several weeks into the changes to our normal worship gatherings. And we considered how people were feeling, what changes had been made. But we knew congregations must consider what things would look like post-pandemic. Dan and Jed had that discussion together and remain hopeful in the growth of the Lord's Church.Originally Uploaded: April 16, 2020Scripture References: James 2:1, 1 Corinthains 11:17-18, Romans 16:5, Romans 16:14-15, Acts 19:8-10, Acts 5:42

In a time of social distancing, many were worried about the concept of "forsaking the assembly." Dan would like us to closer examine Hebrews 10:24-25 and continue to look in the New Testament for the purpose of worship. Maybe we can find a deeper spiritual connection to the Sunday assembly during a time when we are being called to be physically separated. Originally Uploaded on April 9, 2020.Scripture References: Hebrews 10:24-25, Hebrews 3:12-13, 1 Corinthians 14

Depending on your translation, 1 Timothy 3:15 calls the church a pillar, support, buttress, or even a foundation. What exactly does that mean within the context of 1 Timothy 3 and the letter as a whole? Does it change where our instruction as Christians comes from? Let's take a look at the message Paul was sharing with Timothy and how it can inform us today, even within our current situation of a worldwide viral outbreak.Originally Published on April 2, 2020.Scripture References: 1 Timothy 3, 1 Timothy 4:1-2, 1 Timothy 4:11-16, 1 John 1:6

Dan recently returned from his second trip to Israel and a common question he is asked is something about why he wants to go or if a Christian should go. What other questions do you have for Dan about traveling to Israel and the value in such trips?Scripture References:

You know you have one, or two, or maybe a whole list of favorites. Dan and Jed do their best to name just one. Songs are so personal and become favorites for a variety of reasons. So, for our final "favorites" video, we'd love to hear what is your favorite worship song and maybe a little about why it's your favorite. If you'd like to share your story in more detail, email [email protected].

Have you read any of the prophets lately? Like, all the way through. Not just a short quote from Isaiah? They can be difficult, long, maybe even a bit strange, but they do have great truths and insights to share about God and his relationship with his people. This week we ask Dan what's his favorite Old Testament prophet to read. Like last week, we'd love to hear from you as well.

For the next three episode, we've got some personal preference discussions with Dan and we hope you will join in.This week we discuss the four New Testament gospels and which one we personally gravitate toward in our spiritual growth and connection to Jesus. Let us know what's your "go-to" gospel and why.

Post resurrection, what percentage God and what percentage man is Jesus? We're not expecting you to have the answer and we don't propose to have that answer either, but it is the question we plan to discuss in this video. There are many scriptures that point us to the divine nature of Christ as God and man both before and after the resurrection, but it is a concept that is difficult for us to comprehend. So, let's explore the scriptures together and discuss what can truly only be understood as a divine mystery.Scripture References: John 1:14, 1 Corinthians 15:24-28, 1 Corinthians 15:28, 1 John 4:1-16, 1 Timothy 2:5-6, Acts 10:34-43, Hebrews 10:5-7, John 17:1-5, John 20:24-29, Luke 2:52, Luke 24:38-43, Philippians 2:5-8, Revelation 1:12-18, Hebrews 2:6-7, John 8:58, Johnn 10:30, John 7:16, John 12:49-50, Hebrews 2:18, Hebrews 4:15, Hebrews 5:7-8

How many wives did David have? What about Jacob? The list could go on with men in the Bible who had more than one wife. So, does the Bible condone polygamy?Scripture References: Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:3-6, Mark 10:2-12, Romans 7:2-3, Deuteronomy 17:16-17

How much do we believe that there is a spirit-filled, super-natural world at work around us?That answer will influence the way you approach today's topic and the scriptures related to it. We want to warn you up front - this conversation doesn't end with all the answers swept up in a neat pile. Our hope and prayer is that we can approach the scriptures related to this topic with sincerity, trust, and an open heart to God's Holy Spirit.If you are interested in further study, here are a few of our other discussions related to this topic. Are Demons Active Today? - https://youtu.be/HdqGJi81kKM Can Demon Possession Happen Today? - https://youtu.be/OT8ixhrK41QScripture References:Mark 5:15-16, Matthew 12:22-32, Ephesians 1:19-23, Ephesians 6:12, Colossians 1:13-14, 1 Thessalonians 2:17-18, 1 John 4:1-6, Acts 16:16-19, Mark 16:17-20, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:27-31, Romans 12:6-9, Ephesians 4:7-11, Acts 19:6, 1 Corinthains 13:8-11, Hebrews 2:1-4, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Exodus 35-36

We all remember the golden calf and what happened to those that worshipped it right? Well, around that same event, God told the people to not make any idols in the form of anything in heaven above or earth below. What does that mean when it comes to paintings of Jesus? What about hanging a cross in our home? Is it breaking God's law to use images of Jesus in teaching materials? This seems to be a fairly open and shut conversation, but if we are honest with ourselves - there is a lot to wrestle with. How many of our personal feelings and cultural norms will we confront in light of God's words?Scripture References: Exodus 20:3-6, Isaiah 46:5-7, Romans 1:21-23

It's time for another lightning round!We are always thankful for the questions and comments that come in, but it can be tough to answer them all in the program. So, from time to time we gather together some of the questions that can be answered in short form for a lightning round. This week, we will be discussing reward levels in heaven (2:02), what it means for John to be a witness to Jesus (5:42), and why Priscilla may be listed first when she and her husband are mentioned (10:38).Scripture References: Mark 10:35-45, Matthew 20:1-16, Luke 12:47-48, John 1:6-8, John 1:19-34, John 20:30-31, John 21:24, 1 John 1:1, Acts 18:24-26, 1 Corinthians 14:34-35, 1 Timothy 2:11-15, Romans 16:3-5

When you hear the word Hades, you probably have many different images come to your mind. It may be a classic mythical painting. It may be something from Disney's "Hercules." It may make you think of an open grave. Whatever it is, the Bible talks about Hades (called Sheol in the Old Testament) many times. So what is Hades or where is it? If you want to dive deeper into this subject, we did several videos about Heaven and Paradise last year.Scripture References: Acts 2:27-32, Matthew 16:18, Luke 16:19-31, Revelation 1:17-18, Revelation 20:11-14

What about the person on a deserted island without a Bible? There have always been versions of the question to consider the state of people's souls who haven't heard the gospel. Usually, Romans 1:9 comes into that conversation at some point. In this particular conversation, Dan walks us through several parts of Romans to consider exactly what judges a person? We also look at the concept of "law" and "the law" as they relate to God and salvation. Follow along with us, and let us know what comments or further questions you have on this subject.Scripture References: Romans 1:16-19, Romans 2:11-15, Romans 3:9-10, Romans 3:20-23, Romans 6:14-15, Romans 10:4

In Genesis there are stories that include what would be viewed as impossible today.A talking snake in the garden of eden, eating fruit allowing knowledge, and the repopulation of the earth through a handful of people after a flood are a few examples.Jesus often used stories to illustrate a point. Could these be in the same category as a means of displaying the nature of God to the Israelites? If these are simply stories to illustrate a point, instead of literal historical information, would the Christian faith be any less meaningful?" This was a great question and it goes to the heart of belief in the supernatural nature of God. We encourage you to give this discussion a listen and let us know what aspects we can explore further as we consider what it means to have faith in God.

Isn't the New Testament Church a progression of the faith of Abraham? If so, why do we say the Church was established at Pentecost? This is a great question that helps us see the importance of Abraham and the promises God made long ago.Scripture References: Genesis 12:3, Genesis 22:18, Galatians 3:7-9, Galatians 3:16, Ephesians 1:3, Luke 24:46-47, Romans 4:10-11, Romans 9:6-8

Paul talks about following the traditions passed on to believers. Did that mean they were to follow the teachings of Paul? What does it mean to follow the traditions of man or the traditions of God? Let's dive into God's word and see if we can shed a bit of light on the subject.Scripture References: 2 Thessalonians 2:15, Galatians 1:12-14, Mark 7:1-15, Matthew 5:20-22, Matthew 5:43-44, 1 Corinthians 11:23, 1 Corinthians 15:3, 1 Corinthians 14:37, 2 Peter 3:15-16, Galatians 2:8-9 

It's time for another lightning round! We are always thankful for the questions and comments that come in, but it can be tough to answer them all in the program. So, from time to time we gather together some of the questions that can be answered in short form for a lightning round. This week we go back for questions about our recent Taboo Words video as well as clarifications on the concept of guilt, repentance, and lifting hands in prayer. Check the time stamps to jump to some of our other questions as well.1:39 - What does Christ mean when he references the altar in Matthew 5:23?6:25 - Rapture, is it a special event or a generic term?9:31 - Did God create other gods?13:58 - Is guilt a sin? What is the difference between feeling guilt and being guilty?18:52 - Looking at Ezra 18, isn't repentance enough to satisfy God's wrath? Was Jesus' physical sacrifice God's plan?23:40 - Should we be lifting hands in prayer?27:24 - Does Job predate the writings of Genesis?Scripture References: Matthew 5:23, Psalm 51:16-19, Hebrews 13:10, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, Colossians 1:15-17, Ephesians 1:21, Ephesians 6:12, 1 Corinthians 10:20, Isaiah 53:10-11, 1 John 3:19-20, Ezekiel 18, Leviticus 17:11, Hebrews 10:4, 1 John 5:16, 1 Timothy 2:8

"We call Bible things by Bible names" is a phrase that has been used in the church of Christ for many years. However, what do we do when a Bible word has become taboo? Better yet, why do some of these words become taboo in the first place? Let's discuss some of these words, their original meaning in scripture, and how they might be added back into our vocabulary. As always, we'd love to hear your comments or follow-up questions on the things we discuss.Catechism, Eucharist, Cathedra, Ecumenical, Rapture, Predestination, Election, Ordination, Pastor, Altar, LiturgyScripture References: Galatians 6:6, 1 Corinthians 14:16, Matthew 23:1-2, Romans 10:18, Hebrews 1:6, 1 Thessalonians 4:17, John 10:12, 1 Corinthains 5:10, Revelation 20, Ephesians 1:4-5, Romans 11:5, Numbers 27:15-23, Exodus 28, Esodus 29, Acts 6:5-6, Acts 14:23, 1 Timothy5:22, Titus 1:5, 1 Timothy 4:14, 2 Timothy 1:6, Ephesians 4:11, 1 Peter 5:1-5, Acts 20:28-30, 1 Corinthians 9:7, Hebrews 13:10, Hebrews 8:6, 1 Peter 2:9, Hebrews 13:15-16, Hebrews 1:13

God has revealed his name to us. Is it the same as the name of his son, Jesus? What is the correct name for God, or does it change from passage to passage? There are so many questions related to the name of Jesus and the name of God - even more questions related to how we use them and what they mean. Let's explore these names and how they impact the way read scripture and talk about our creator.Scripture References: Exodus 3, Exodus 6:3, Hebrews 4:8, John 17, Exodus 34:5-6, Exodus 33:18-23, John 1:14, Psalm 110:1, Acts 2:21, 1 Corinthains 10:4 & 9, Matthew 1:21, Matthew 26:39, James 1:13, Romans 8:34

When you were baptized someone probably said something before you were taken into the water. Do you remember what they said? Does it matter what they said or if they said anything at all? There are a few passages in the New Testament that seem to create some tension around this subject that we will discuss in this video. Going a step further, Dan guides us through the concept of what the phrase "in the name" means.Scripture references: Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 2:33, Acts 2:21, Acts 2:36, Acts 3:1-10, Acts 4:6-12, John 5:19-29, Romans 8:7-11, Colossians 2:12

Who gets to make the rules? Who is in charge? Let's keep this one simple - the answer is God. If only it could end there. In reality, we have many questions that stem from the concept of binding and loosing whether we realize it or not. Dan and Jed start in Matthew 18 to get a picture of what Jesus was trying to say and who he was saying it to. Then the conversation heads toward practical applications of the principle.Scripture References: Matthew 18:1, Matthew 18:15-20, Matthew 16:19, 1 Corinthians 2:6-13, 1 Corinthians 4:6-16, John 16:4-15, 1 Timothy 5:17-22, Hebrews 13:17, Hebrews 13:7, 2 Timothy 2:2, Mark 10:40-45, Galatians 2:6-7, Galatians 1:11-12, Galatians 2:11-14

In light of a passage like Ephesians 3:3-5, it may feel like you should be able to study and understand the Bible on your own. But is that what the passage is really saying? This video addresses several questions related to personal Bible study and whether or not you should use or depend on other teachers, preachers, or writers. Scripture References: Ephesians 3:3-5, 1 Timothy 4:13, Revelation 1:3, Matthew 5:19, James 3:1, Acts 17:12, Psalm 22, Psalm 137, Ephesians 4:26, James 1:19, 

Whether you have heard of the T.U.L.I.P. or not, you have probably come across these ideas when talking with someone about grace, salvation, and God's eternal plan. What exactly are these concepts and what do they mean for us as we consider what God has done for us?Scripture References: Genesis 1:31, Joshua 24:15, Ezekiel 18:4, Ezekiel 18:20-21, Ezekiel 18:31-32, Acts 7:51, Mark 10:18, 1 John 2:1-2, John 3:16, Ephesians 1:4-6, Titus 2:11-12, Luke 14:15-24, Romans 14:12, Acts 2:40-41, Hebrews 6:4-6, Hebrews 10:26-27, 2 Peter 1:5-10, 2 Peter 2:20-22, 2 Peter 3:17-18, John 10:25-30, Isaiah 53:6

Our rational, secular society tends to bristle at the idea of the supernatural being a real thing. Even in the Church we are uncomfortable with the idea that spiritual beings are at work in the world around us. Let's dive into the opening conversation in a larger study Dan has been doing with the congregation at Broadway about the spirits all around us. The Bible has a lot to say about this subject. So, as always, we encourage you to really dive into the scriptures with us. If you'd like to continue the study, here are the other classes we mentioned for you to study along with.Colossians 1:13, Colossians 1:16, Ephesians 1:19-21, 1 Corinthians 10:20, Exodus 5, Deuteronomy 18:9-14, Acts 16:16-21, Deuteronomy 13:1-3, Ephesians 1:3, Ephesians 2:6-7, Ephesians 6:12, Ephesians 2:1-2, Hebrews 1:14, 1 Timothy 4:1-2, John 8:44, Genesis 3:4, Revelation 12:9, 1 Timothy 4:1, 2 Corinthians 4:4, Acts 7:51, 2 Corinthians 10:3-6, 1 John 4:1-3, 2 Timothy 1:6-7, Ephesians 4:26-27, Revelation 3:20, Mark 5:1-20, Mark 9:14-29, Ephesians 6:10, James 4:7-8, Hebrews 1:13, Hebrews 13:2, 1 Peter 5:7-9Christ & The Powers : https://youtu.be/waH6PtT5CVwPrayer in the Spirit : https://youtu.be/M6oRFc6W20kAre We Nudged By the Spirit? : https://youtu.be/irVyTsPpQiU

Can the Bible really be understood in English or any language other than the original Greek or Hebrew? You may have heard someone describe words as buckets that we pour meaning into, but does that apply to the Bible as well? If you have thoughts about this or other subjects, leave a comment and let's continue the conversation together.Scripture References: Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 2:7-11, Hebrews 2:6-8, 1 Corinthians 14:1-5 

In creating our videos about leaving and finding a new congregation, Jed came accross a post outlining the writer's personal desires in their search for a new congregation. He ran them by Dan to see what his thoughts were on the list. What would be on your list of congregational necessities?Scripture References: Galatians 3:28, Ephesians 2:14, Romans 1:24-28, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11

Lots of questions and comments have come in after the past several videos. This will be the first of several created as a follow-up; so, please go back and watch the original conversations to get the full context.Today's video goes deeper into what it means to ask for God's guidance vs. following your own heart's desires. We also discuss what "Rhema" means in the Bible and contrast that with what some denominational groups may teach about that word and its meaning in your life.As always, if you have further comments or questions on this or any other conversation - send them to [email protected] or comment wherever you are watching our program.Scripture References: Psalm 1, Philippians 2:3-4, Jeremiah 17:9, Isaiah 55:8-9, Ephesians 4:16, Proverbs 14:12, James 4:3, James 1:3-5, Romans 10:17, Acts 2:14, Acts 5:20, 1 Corinthians 13:8-10, 1 Corinthians 12:29-31

Are we nudged/led/called by the Spirit? Is that even a concept presented in the Bible? Let's explore what John and Paul have to say about the Holy Spirit and his role in our lives.Scripture References: John 3:1-15, Ephesians 3:3-5, Galatians 5:16-26, Romans 8:1-17, Ephesians 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:10

If you were able to choose a congregation from the New Testament, which one would you join? For a variety of reasons, you may be looking for a new church home. How do you find a new congregation? What are some criteria you can use to make sure you will grow spiritually wherever you land? Let's face it, a lot of the things we look for and notice aren't always based on Bible but on personal preferences and personalities. So, if there aren't a lot of specific verses to guide us are there general principles we can follow? We hope to encourage the heart of the seeker away from a consumer's approach. Hopefully, this conversation helps if you are in this situation, but if you have scenarios you'd like us to discuss please send them our way and we will try to address them in a third video on this subject.Scripture References: Romans 16:3-16, Ephesians 4:1-3

We're starting a two-part (possibly three) discussion about leaving a congregation and searching for a new one. We can't cover every possible situation and we know there are lots of them. This video hopes to lay the groundwork and look at scriptures that address some common things related to congregations and their health. We also discuss personal relationships within a congregation and how that affects your spiritual growth. If you haven't ever had to leave a congregation or consider doing so - know that it isn't an easy choice for anyone. We don't want to oversimplify or downplay the impact this has on individuals, families, and the congregations involved. We do hope this helps us all become better congregations who care for each individual and seek to be the Church as Christ calls it to be. Several times you will hear us mention a desire to hear your stories. We really mean it. Please send us your thoughts and comments to help us better address this important subject. It may lead to us putting together a third video in this series to dig deeper on some specific situations.Scripture References: 1 Corinthians, Acts 14:23, Acts 9:26-29, Revelation 2:2-5, Acts 20:28-31, Revelation 3:3-5, Acts 15:36-41, 2 Timothy 4:11, Ephesians 6:4, Deuteronomy 6:4-6

What is a Christian's responsibility to serve? Is it on the individual to find a role to play? Should the local congregation create spaces to serve and be active in filling those service needs? It is vitally important to the Church that people know their gifts and use them in service to God. Congregational leaders should closely consider how they are building up those in their care and encouraging them to use their gifts. But what does it look like? How does this work happen? Dan and Jed discuss this topic in today's conversation. It's a little longer than usual, but it lays the biblical foundations and goes through some practical examples of implementation. We'd love to hear your thoughts on this subject as well as any questions you may have.Scripture References: Luke 10:1-12, John 4:28-35, Acts 2:43-47, Acts 6:1-7, Galatians 6:9-10, 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Luke 3:10-14, Romans 12:4-8, 1 Corinthians 12:7-18, Ephesians 4:16

"This was done to fulfill what was said" is a phrase we read in the New Testament in relation to prophecies made in the Old Testament. Does that phrase apply to all prophecies from the Hebrew Bible? Let's walk through the concept of what a prophecy is as a way to better understand the Bible as a whole. Jed learned something new in this conversation - maybe this will be new to you as well. Comment with any questions on this topic or passages you would like us to explore related to prophecy.Scripture References: Matthew 2:4-6, Micah 5:2, Matthew 2:14-15, Hosea 11:1, John 19:32-36, Exodus 12:45-46, Luke 24:44, Hebrews 8:7-13, Isaih 7:10-8:4, Matthew 1:22, 2 Corinthians 3

A great question came in asking, "what should change in a person's life when they make their commitment to Christ?" They mentioned the joy that comes from being a disciple of Christ and yet many seem to accept that a Christian's duty is just to attend church services and be a nice person. Is there more to our life change than that? Let's dive into this discussion together, and share with us your thoughts on this subject as well. What would you share with someone who asked this question of you?Scripture References: John 1:12-13, Romans 6, John 3:6-8, 1 John 3:9, 1 Peter 1:23, 2 Corinthians 10:5, Acts 2:38, Acts 7:51, Ephesians 4:17-19, Ephesians 4:22-24, James 4:7-8, Romans 8:16

There is a lot to discuss around words like judge, judgment, or judging. For this conversation, let's look at each word in context and what is being taught in the particular passages. Hopefully, by better understanding what is meant, we can be more Christlike in our applications.Scripture References: John 7:24, Matthew 7:1-5, 1 Corinthians 5:9-13, 1 Corinthians 6:5, Romans 14:1-2, Romans 14:10-12, 1 Corinthians 4:3-6, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11

Lent is a religious observance of fasting and preparation leading up to Easter. In the churches of Christ, this has not been something we typically make a part of our yearly activities. Why is that the case? Is there something wrong with the concept of or practice of Lent? Dan and Jed will discuss Lent as a season, but also the act of fasting and what the Bible has to say about self-control. Let's consider how we can work to grow spiritually in our focus on Christ not just in the weeks before Easter but throughout the year.Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 11:22, Matthew 6:16-18, 1 Timothy 4:1-5, Colossians 2:18-19, 1 Corinthians 7:5

Starting with a passage from a book Dan and Jed have read, they explore the concept of making doctrines into idols. Is that possible? What would that look like? Using passages from the letters of John, they also explore warnings against leaving behind doctrines in favor of a different gospel. We hope this conversation leads to us all thinking deeply about our Christian walk as individuals. Maybe it will lead us to consider the focus within our congregation as well. As always, let us know your thoughts and we can continue this conversation beyond this video.Scripture References: 1 John, 2 John, 2 Corinthians 5:14-20

If you were asked after worship, "How was the sermon?" What would be your answer? How do you evaluate a sermon, or do you think much about it after it is finished? In this conversation, Jed and Dan discuss what scripture says the purpose of a sermon should be. They also share some personal thoughts and experiences on the topic. Get involved with the conversation by commenting on whatever platform you are joining us on today. We'd love to hear your thoughts on what makes for a good sermon. Maybe you are a preacher and you'd like to share some practical tips related to how you improve your focus and delivery each week. As always, thanks for joining us for another of our weekly conversations!Scripture References: 2 Timothy 4:2-5, 1 Peter 3:15, Colossians 4:3-4 

So many questions surround the subject of baptism. We've even addressed a few of them from time to time. For today's conversation, we hope to zoom out and give a general picture of how the Bible describes the form and purpose of baptism. If this brings up questions related to your own commitment to Christ or to teachings you have heard in the past, we are available in the comments or through our email address.Scripture References: Exodus 28, Exodus 29, Leviticus 14, Luke 24:47, Acts 2, Romans 6, Acts 18:8, Acts 10, Acts 11:1-18, Romans 5:17, Acts 22:16, Acts 8:26-40, Hebrews 10:22, Hebrews 9:13-14

How do we know what is good and evil? Is there a standard to gauge things by, or is it everyone looks to their own version of what is good? If there is a standard to look to, how can we hold to that standard? As always, we hope this is the beginning of a conversation and would love to hear your thoughts and questions related to today's subject.Scripture References: Mark 10:18, Genesis 1-3, Genesis 6, Romans 7:12-14, 1 John 3:4, Isaiah 5:20

Hebrews is situated in our Bibles in between many other letters from people like Paul, Peter, James, and John, but is Hebrews best understood as a letter? If we understand what style of writing is being used, it will help us better understand what is being communicated in this book. Let's dive into the book of Hebrews to see what the big picture message is and how we can follow the points being made.Better have the book of Hebrews open for this one!

You might be surprised to know that our question is based on something that comes up regularly in our comment section. People ask if we are a cult, people accuse us of being a cult, some people encourage others to leave the Church of Christ because they saw the congregation they were part of as a cult. We decided it was time to address this subject, and we fully expect to get follow-up questions and comments on our discussion. There is no way we could address all aspects of this topic, but we humbly attempted to give the conversation an honest and open start. Here's a link to the full BITE Model created by Steven Hassan that we discuss in this video.https://freedomofmind.com/bite-model/Scriptures Referenced: Philippians 4:8-9, Ephesians 4:17-24, Acts 17:10-15, 1 Corinthians 5:11-13

Let's look at the word faith. Too often, it is simplified to a basic acknowledgement of belief, but this word is so much richer! To illustrate this, let's look at how John uses the term in his Gospel, how Paul uses it in Romans, and how it is used by the writer of Hebrews.Scripture References: John 20:30-31, John 1:12-13, John 3:16, John 3:36, John 6:35, Romans 1:16-17, Romans 3:21-23, Romans 4:1-5, Romans 1:5, Hebrews 10:35-39