Indigenous Faith

Today Craig and LaDonna Smith begin their study on the fourth church in the Apostle Paul's church planting work in the region of Asia Minor (modern day Turkey).  It's the church in Thyatira.  Similar to Pergamos, Thyatira was a city with workers unions that were tied to pagan religions and practices.  In the eyes of those throughout the region surrounding Thyatira, it was deemed to be less significant that Ephesus, Smyrna, and Pergamos, but like every community around the world, it was, is, and always will be, of eternal importance to the Lord.  So important, that He told John to write that they were accountable to the living Word of God and the living God who was the author of that living Word.  The Smiths share that this church received commendation from the Lord because their current works were greater than when they first started.  But with that commendation was a challenge to them because they were tolerating demonic activity through a woman who epitomized the characteristics of the Old Testament Jezebel.  She was leading the people in the church into sexual immorality as part of pagan worship.  This speaks to a duality of alliances that God was not pleased with.  Seems like nothing has changed in the life of the church even today as syncretism abounds around the world.  Once again the only thing the church could do about this is REPENT!  Quite a start to another church listed in Revelation 2&3.  May we all learn from these churches is the prayer of Craig and LaDonna and their Indigenous Faith heart!  

Today the Smiths take a quick break from their study in the Book of Revelation to bring you an extra special edition of Indigenous Faith, where the interviewers become the interviewee's.  The Smiths were invited to be guests on the Christian radio program, Jesus is Asking Are You Listening, hosted by Steve and Christy Keist.  For many years this program has aired across America and their audience stretches from coast to coast.  The Keist's interview the Smiths about a number of topics including both personal and ministry related issues.  The Smiths reveal more about their personal lives than ever before, so if you want to know more about their love lives and how the met, and the impact the Miracle at Mile Marker 313 affected both their personal and ministry lives, then this is the episode for you.  It's an interesting turn of events where the Smiths sit on the other side of the interview table in this unique version of Indigenous Faith.  Don't forget, they'll be right back next week in their continued study on the seven churches in Asia Minor,  as they begin their study on the church in Pergamos.  All interesting information that Jesus presents to John the Revelator in this critical book of Bible prophecy.  Enjoy this week's edition, then we look forward to seeing you again next week, dear friends, as the Indigenous Faith Podcast keeps rolling on!

Today Craig and LaDonna Smith complete their study on the words of Jesus Christ to the church in Pergamos.  This church had both affirmation of things they were doing well and words of correction over things that they weren't doing well.  Something that can easily be said of most churches around the world today!  And it's all based upon the authority and clarity of the Word of God.  This podcast is first and foremost, a promoter of biblical truth, and secondarily, those truths are supported by comment that Craig and LaDonna Smith offer from their nearly fifty-years of service to Christ and His church.  The key word to Pergamos from the mouth of the Lord?  Repent!  But in saying that, the Lord reminds Pergamos that He understands the great challenges they face because they were in a community that was the hotbed of many pagan religions and demonic practices.  It's hard sometimes to live a faithful life in that kind of community.  The Lord understands, is compassionate to His people, but yet holds their spiritual feet to the fire when He calls them to repent.  On the positive side, He reminds them that He offers His own what He calls, Hidden Manna, which is all about the infusion into the lives of His people of His divine power, His timeless doctrinal truths, and all that is the believer's inheritance which can be enjoyed today.  That manna is also tied to His body shed on the cross for our sins, which we are called to remember on a regular basis until He comes again.  That is done through the regular observance at the table of the Lord as we who are part of His church celebrates communion with other believers.  Craig also explains the mystery of the white stone with a new name on it as the context of the culture of that day is clarified and presented in a way that helps us all understand what the meaning of this white stone is.  All important context for believers today to understand what the Lord is saying to these seven churches along the well traveled roads of Asia Minor, as the Smiths continue their study in eschatology on Indigenous Faith.  Their next stop on this tour is the city of Thyatira.   We'll visit there soon on an upcoming episode of Indigenous Faith!  See you then!

In this, the second part of the Smith's review of Christ's words to the seven churches in Asia Minor, they cover the admonitions of the Lord to the church in Pergamos.  It was a city given over to a multitude of pagan religions, with shrines built all over the 1,000 foot high hill the city was built around.  The inevitable result was many chose to bring their old pagan faith and rituals into their new found faith in Christ, thus resulting in blatant paganism, which, as the Lord stated to them, Nevertheless I have somethings against you...The Lord will never be supportive of that kind of faith and practice for His followers.  In fact, the Smiths remind us all of the words Joshua of old told the Israelites when they were trying to do the same...He said, Choose you this day whom you will serve!  And then he listed the three options that are still the options for us today.  First, choose the gods of our ancestors (old tribal religion and spirituality), second, the gods in the land we are living in (modern paganism of modern America), including Old Testament Molech and Chemosh worship (modern day abortion practices), and even following the god of drunkenness, which was named Bacchus.  Remember, God will not share His glory with anyone else, and especially, the gods of the many pagan religions established by nations around the world.  This church, amidst that challenge, also had its heroes, who stood up to paganism and boldly worshipped Christ and Christ alone.  It's a church that reminds the Smiths of many churches today around the world.  On thing is certain, It is only the Lord, Himself, who will righteously and rightly sort out the good from the bad, all because of what He held in His mouth - the Word of God!  That's the standard all of us will be evaluated by on Judgement Day.  The Smiths hope and trust you are ready to meet the Judge of all the earth, who, as Genesis says, will do right!  The time is now to get right with God, repent of sin, and turn your life over to Him!

Today, the Smiths begin their study in the third church on Paul's Asia Minor church planting efforts.  This time it's the city of Pergamos.  The Smiths follow the similar pattern of walking through the Scripture passages that speak of this periarticular church.  Pergamos was one of the key cities in the region, and was considered the center of a number of pagan religions.  Its 1,000 foot high hill the city was built on and around was home to many pagan houses of worship.  Having so many religious options available, the inevitable outcome for some was to syncretize their Christian faith and practice with that of these other religions.  The Lord was gracious to them in understanding when He said, "I know where you live..." meaning while challenging them to stay true to their Christian faith and not compromise, He also was willing to forgive and empower His people through the timeless truths of God's Word and the power of the Holy Spirit.  The Smiths have an interesting segment in this episode on the demonic power of one pagan god, Bacchus, who was known as the god of drunkenness.  You won't want to miss the Smiths coverage of the impact this false god has today, even in both modern American culture and our tribal cultures as well.  It's an interesting study into an interesting church in an interesting community.  Be sure to stay with the Smiths through the whole series on Christ's words to the church in Pergamos.  Right here on Indigenous Faith. 

As the Smiths finish their study on Christ's words to the church in Smyrna, they continue their review of the poverty Jesus said was evident in this church.  In human terms, they were poor, yet, Jesus said, in Him, they were rich beyond imagination!  And that truth is for us as well in today's culture.  We are blessed beyond measure.  Craig continues his reminder from Christ's birth how He became poor for us so we could become rich in Him.  From there, the Smiths review how a faithful God has blessed them all throughout their married life and ministry, even though their major life-threatening auto accident changed their ability to "bring in the income" to support their new work.  The reason for God's faithfulness was, even when they had very little income, they were faithful to tithe to their local church and support even beyond that basic giving, other ministries that needed support.  You'll be encouraged by the stories of God's faithfulness that both LaDonna and Craig share.  From there, the Smith's close out this series by sharing from their understanding of God in the suffering of His people.  It's a powerful conclusion to their series on this one church, Smyrna, that was included in the whole counsel of God through His Holy Word!  Be sure to join us next week as they start another series on the next church in the lineup in their in-depth study on end times and the Book of Revelation.  Thanks again for joining the Smiths in this extended journey in the Word of God!

As we launch into today's episode of Indigenous Faith, Craig continues to share the remarkable experience he had in 2009 when he died in an emergency room in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  But he didn't stay dead, instead, the doctors pushed blood and fluids back into him and got his heart started again.  As amazing as that medical intervention was, there was a much greater intervention, and that was Craig's experience as he passed through death's door only to return by the miraculous hand of Almighty God!  And that experience alone has dramatically affected his life since then.  Where was Jesus at the point of death?  Craig unpackages that important reality that, for him, helped faith overcome fear in the most horrific part of his traumatic experience in the Miracle at Mile Marker 313.  From there, the Smiths continue through the text they are teaching from and address what Revelation 2:9 spoke about pertaining to the false Jews who were Jews by name only, yet were more aligned with Satan's side than God's.  And the church in Smyrna had to deal with that reality.  From there, Craig begins to unpackage what the Scriptures said about Smyrna, that while they were in poverty, yet at the same time they were incredibly prosperous.  The actual word Jesus used was they were rich!  In fact, richer than many kings and powerful leaders who had wealth untold.  And this is where this episode makes an unexpected turn as Craig presents a very interesting way he defines the false teaching of the health and wealth prosperity gospel found in modern Christianity, and as seen on many Christian television programs.  He actually goes as far as to call those who preach this false gospel, Christianity's Medicine Men and Medicine Women!  What does he mean by that!?  You'll just have to stay tuned for this very unique and stunning episode of Indigenous Faith!  Get ready for some amazing moments ahead with Craig and LaDonna Smith and their Indigenous Faith teaching!

In today's episode, Craig and LaDonna continue unpacking Christ's words to the church in Smyrna.  The passage under consideration is Revelation 2:8-11.  Today's focus is from Christ's admonition to them about the persecutions they are and were to suffer for His name's sake.  The Smiths shared in last week's episode about the severe suffering that had taken place in the region under ten powerful leaders of the Roman Empire and the great faith that believers had while facing persecutions that often led to violent and painful deaths.  Today, the Smith's contrast the heroic efforts the churches had in the face of great tyranny and suffering with the cowardly way many of these ten Roman emperor's lives ended.  What a sharp contrast it was.  Using some great information from Dr. David Jeremiah's teaching and preaching on the events of Revelation 2, the Smith's take the rest of today's episode to share some of the ways, in their own personal journeys through pain and suffering, they were able to see faith trump fear, time and time again.  Suffering has always been, is now, and will be until Jesus comes again, part of the life of His Church and His children.  The question the Smiths leave us all is, are we willing, ready and enabled to face suffering when it comes our way?  Be encouraged, dear friends, because Christ's indwelling power can and will see us through every trial that may come until we see Him face to face!  What a great hope Revelation gives the believer!  Live in it and rejoice that we are more than conquerers through Him that loved us, and loves us still!

Today, Craig and LaDonna Smith return to their teaching series on Christ's words to the seven churches in Asia Minor.  Their focus today, and in in a few more episodes to come, is the church in Smyrna, found in Revelation 2:8-11.  Smyrna is only one of two churches of the seven that received commendation from Christ, and no condemnation from Him.  The Smiths walk us all through the highlights of this church, including the fact that they were a persecuted church, which brought praise from the Lord as to how they persevered under pressure.  He also noted of them that they were not, in the eyes of the world, wealthy people or a wealthy church.   He said "I know your poverty - yet you are rich!  What did Jesus mean by that?  Well, the Smiths help unpackage what Jesus said, and support it with other biblical passages that share the same sentiment.  It's a great launch into the words of Christ to this second of the seven churches included in the Book of Revelation.  We at TRM hope you will stay with the Smiths all the way through their important study on eschatology (end times), while focusing on the Book of Revelation as the launching point into all of the Scriptures and it's prophetic teaching to the world.  If you are joining us recently, you might want to go back to the very first episode they launched on prophecy.  To do so you'd have to go all the way back to the September 17, 2025 episode to begin this journey.  Don't worry, you'll have plenty of time to catch up, as this series is a long way from completion.  But isn't it interesting stuff?  See you next week, dear friend!  And, stay tuned!

In this final episode in the Smith's journey back to why they believe, teach, and preach from the literal interpretation of Scripture.  This has incredible importance to how they present this extended prophecy series on the Coming of the Lord.  It is only when one is committed to the literal interpretation of the Scriptures that you come to an understanding that the Second Coming of Christ begins with a literal rapture (catching away) of the church into the clouds to meet the Lord and all those who have died in Christ and be taken back into heaven.  Then a seven year Great Tribulation period follows, where the wrath and judgement of God is poured out on disobedient Israel and all other nations, culminating with Christ's return to earth in His Second Coming, with all the saints assembled in heaven with Him as He fights the final Battle o Armageddon with Satan and all of mankind.  The a thousand year time of peace and safety on earth, known as the Millennial Reign of Christ, followed by one small skirmish with Satan, who has been released by God for a brief time, which results in his final banishment to the Lake of Fire, followed by the Great White Throne Judgement of all the unbelievers throughout history and their final judgement and banishment to the same destination Satan was sent to, and then a new eternal state which will last for all eternity, free from the power and presence of evil.  Paradise for sure!  It's crucial, in Craig and LaDonna Smith's hearts, to make sure newer listeners understand the teaching of the Smiths, which is in alignment with a literal interpretation of the Scriptures.  Once completed with this session, the Smiths return to Revelation 2 and pick up with Christ's words to the seven churches in Asia Minor, starting with the second church, found in Smyrna.  Much more to come, dear friends, in this extended study in the Book of Revelation and all other supporting passages in both the Old and New Testaments.  What a journey we all are on.  Craig and LaDonna appreciate your joining them in this incredible road map on things to come! All here on the Indigenous Faith broadcast!

Craig and LaDonna Smith's multi-episode review of the reasons they are committed to the Premillennial, Pretribulation rapture position continues as they present a timely article written by Dr. David Jeremiah title, "The Battle of Armageddon."  It is one of the most concise yet thorough overviews of this much misunderstood battle described in the Scriptures and that Hollywood has often times attempted to create movies that can't hold a candle to the clear and compelling description God's Holy Word offers.  It's an important part of end time prophetic teaching and serves as the bridge between the Great Tribulation period and the Millennial reign of Christ.  In Christ's Second Coming to earth, He assumes the posture of a warring King and defeats, in what seems to be a moment of time, Satan, his Anti-Christ, False Prophet, and the world's all at once, and we as His church are along for the ride!  Only the premillennial literal interpretation  position has room for the actual defeat and binding of Satan for a thousand year period which reminds Craig and LaDonna that for us as believers in Christ, greater days await us when what is prophesied actually becomes a reality!  The literal view also affirms what John the Revelator said in the eight visions he had experienced when he uttered these words, And I saw, and I saw, and I saw, and I saw, and I saw, and I saw, and I saw, and I saw...!  No allegory here.  John literally saw the things he was to write about and us to read and believe!  With a few minutes left on the 30 minute podcast clock, the Smiths close out this episode with their beginning to answer the question, Where is the nation of Israel in end times prophecy, starting with four key words about Israel.  The first, and only one they had time to cover today is the word, Land.  More great inspiration right here on today's episode of Indigenous Faith!

In today's episode, Craig and LaDonna continue their review of why they believe in the PreMillennial, Pre-tribulation rapture of the church position, which is based upon the literal translation of Scripture instead of the allegorical understanding of prophetic teaching of the Bible.  They believe it important at this point in their extended series on the prophetic teaching of end times found in God's Word.  As that literal hermeneutic (the art and science of interpreting God's Word) guides them, they help give clarity to the important differences between the Second Coming of Christ and the Rapture of the Church.  As an example, in Revelation 1, the word "church" is mentioned 19 times alone, and then is never mentioned again until Revelation 22.  Why such a huge gap?  The reason is because Revelation 4-21 speaks of the Great Tribulation period.  If there's no mention of the church in these chapters, then its obvious the church will not be present during the Great Tribulation.  Where will it be?  The only answer that makes sense is the church will be in heaven because it will have been raptured (caught away) by the Lord and taken to heaven to await returning to the earth with the Lord when He comes back at the second coming at the end of the Tribulation period.  That is when His Millennial reign will take place on earth, with us as the church with Him until the end of time as we know it will happen after the Millennial reign.  We will be with the Lord throughout all eternity in what the Bible describes as a new eternal state that will go on throughout the ages to come and never end!  What great promises await the church when the rapture begins this amazing new fulfilled life with the Lord who saved us through His shed blood on the cross!  Be blessed, dear friends, by the truths of God's Word as Craig and LaDonna Smith continue their review of end time events, right her on Indigenous Faith!

Today Craig and LaDonna takes a brief break from the seven churches in Revelation 2&3 to provide an all-important review of where they stand on the issue of the Rapture, Second Coming of Christ, the Great Tribulation Period, the Millennial reign of Christ on earth, the Great White Throne Judgement and the eternal state promised in God's Holy Word.  They do so because of the recent growth of the Indigenous Faith podcast both in the United States and around the world.  The Smiths want to make sure their listeners understand the Smiths are presenting this teaching on Bible prophecy from the conviction of a Pre-Millennial Pre-Tribulation rapture position which is based on a literal translation of prophetic passages in God's Word.  They hope this review will be helpful to all listeners, both new and those who have followed the Smiths teaching in the almost five years since they launched the Indigenous Faith broadcasts.  People in over 102 nations are now accessing this programming, and it will continue to grow as God allows.  That is, until He comes for us in the rapture, which could be this very day!  Are you ready, friend, should Jesus come for us soon!  Be ready.  Eternity depends on the choices we make today.

In today's episode, Craig and LaDonna finish up their study of the first Church Jesus told John to write to in His words to the seven churches in Asia Minor.  It was the church in Ephesus.  The Smiths continue to help us understand how we, today, can be like the Ephesian church, by continuing to preach and teach sound doctrine all while guarding our local church against the false teachers of today.  When false doctrines, like weeds, try and sprout up in our churches today, they are to be confronted by the leaders of the church and by exercising what is called church discipline on those who bring such teaching in.  Craig goes the extra mile by including some important thoughts about the legalities church discipline needs to operate under, especially in such a litigious environment like we find ourselves in today.  He addresses what the church should do if and when someone goes as far as suing the church in civil court.  Drawing upon his years of leading the Native Ministries of The C&MA, and the training he received while in that role, Craig helps bring out the importance of the church today in covering itself legally should something like that happen today.  It all centers around Christ's affirmation of the leaders in Ephesus for doing the hard work of protecting the church from false teaching.  He commends them strongly for doing so.  But Christ also shares with the folks in Ephesus that there were some things He was not happy with in what He observed in this congregation.  Specifically, was the fact that they had left their first love for Christ.  Thankfully, Christ gave them three things to do to recapture that first love, and Craig takes the time to unpackage those items to you, his listeners, today. Those three things are, Remember, Repent, and Return.  You'll be encouraged by both Craig and LaDonna's teaching on how we can even do that today.  Great words of encouragement to all listeners, once again, right here on today's edition of Indigenous Faith!

Today, Craig and LaDonna continue their study of Jesus' words to the seven churches in Asia Minor in Revelation 2-3.  Realizing the importance of what Christ said, they had no option but to address the issue of abortion in our modern culture.  The sacrifice of children to demonic pagan idols goes as far back as the Old Testament, and is strongly condemned by Jesus Christ.  Without mincing words, they strongly present the biblical case that it's not simply a "social issue" called "Choice", but a demonic and pagan practice of the worst sort.  They remind us that it's not just a women's issue, but a man's issue as well.  Men bear just as much responsibility by their unwillingness to care for children they bring into the world and providing a loving home for a child to be raised in.  It's a worldwide issue of modern paganism that affects all cultures, tribes, nations, and people groups.  The Smiths also present some of the most encouraging words ever spoken about Christ and His involvement in His church.  It says He holds the seven stars (pastors) in His hand and He walks among the seven lamp stands (churches).  The implications of that reality is staggering to consider and should help all believers to rejoice.  It also supports the importance of being a part of a local church in order to experience this deeper work of Christ in the world today.  Christ's strong words to the leaders of Ephesus included an affirmation about them promoting sound doctrine in the church all while being on the lookout for false teachers that want to come in and sow destruction.  It led Craig to begin speaking strongly on the importance of these roles and he begins to introduce the issue of church discipline.  Unfortunately, time ran out so you'll have to come back next week and join the Smiths as they continue to unpackage what the Book of Revelation teaches.  All right here on the Indigenous Faith broadcast!

Today Craig and LaDonna Smith move on to Chapters 2-3 of the Book of Revelation, which covers Jesus' words to seven churches in the region of Asia Minor.  For the next little while, the Smiths will be unpacking the details of Christ's words to these seven churches, of which He is the Senior Pastor over them all.  After LaDonna presents these two chapters, the Smiths begin their focus on what He said to the first church mentioned, which was the church in the city of Ephesus.  John, who was the scribe for the Book of Revelation, was actually in this city when he was taken prisoner for preaching the gospel and sent to isolation on the island of Patmos, where he received all that the Lord gave him about things to come in a biblical book who's whole purpose was to give great detail to what will happen in the last days of planet Earth as we know it.  He was to write the about past, present, and future events as revealed to Him by Christ, Himself.  In today's episode, the Smiths give a full explanation and background of the church in Ephesus, and begin unpacking both the affirming and challenging words of Christ to them.  And that's the pattern Jesus uses in what He has to say to all these seven congregations spread throughout Asia Minor.  He commends them for the good things they do, but also shares with them the things that He is against as they live their Christian lives in the early days of the Church.  In one of the more powerful parts of their presentation, the Smiths remind us about the relationship Jesus has with both the church leaders and the congregation in these local congregations when He says that He holds the seven stars (the seven pastors) in His hand and he walks among the seven lamp stands (the actual seven churches).  And He still does that today!  There's so much encouragement as Craig and LaDonna begin unpacking God's Word, right here on this and the upcoming episodes of Indigenous Faith.  We're glad you are with the Smiths in this biblical journey!

Today Craig and LaDonna Smith wrap up there expository look into Revelation 1.  They remind us that while they hold strongly to the literal interpretation of Scripture, they leave room for imagery, illustrations, etc., that are metaphorically presented to help Bible students realize just what the scripture is saying.  They speak on this as this chapter provides some of that kind of text.  The end of the chapter is filled with imagery of the Savior of heaven and earth as John saw a vision of a man, "like the son of man."  John struggles to describe this image as its realities far out delivered John's ability to describe what he saw in common human terms of the first century.  The Smiths believe you will be blessed by this three part series and we hope and pray you'll be able to see all its splendor and might, right her on Indigenous Faith!

Today Craig and LaDonna continue their introductory study into the Book of Revelation.  They continue to unpack all that chapter 1 has to say about why this book was to be scribed by the Apostle John while in prison on the island of Patmos.  Write the things you see (currently), the things you saw (past tense) and the things to come (future tense) is what the angel of the Lord told him to write.  The intended audience is all of us living throughout the past 2,000 years since Christ was on earth, and ascended back to heaven in preparation for His second coming which will soon be upon us!  In great imagery, Christ the conquering King is presented right at the beginning of this incredible book which speaks about things to come.  Excitement is building in the hearts and souls of Craig and LaDonna as they present these exciting pages of timeless truth to you.  We trust that excitement will be contagious and spread to every listener around the globe who tunes into this prophetic teaching series, all designed to help build a biblical and lasting Indigenous faith in the lives of our listeners.  Buckle up for another amazing study in God's prophetic Word, right here on Indigenous Faith!

Not only does today mark another year of the Indigenous Faith broadcast, it marks the beginning of a new series in our continued study of eschatology.  Today we launch an in-depth study into the last book of the Bible, the Book of Revelation.  In a multiple part series, Craig and LaDonna begin to unpackage the first chapter of this amazing book and attempt to put the cookies on the bottom shelf by simplifying what this book has to say about end times.  We will be going through the whole book of Revelation to uncover the things the Apostle John saw while he was imprisoned on the Island of Patmos.  He was to write the things that are, the things that were, and the things to come.  Please be sure to join Craig and LaDonna in every episode they present on this much misunderstood book of the Bible.  As you'll see in just chapter 1, it's a remarkable study into the mind and heart of God and all that He has planned for not only His children, but for those who rejected Him and His eternal plan of salvation through His One and only son, Jesus Christ.  Have your Bibles ready, dear friends, as you join Craig and LaDonna Smith on their amazing journey through the Book of Revelation, right her on Indigenous Faith!

In today's fifth and final episode that focuses on the Signs of His Coming, Craig and LaDonna Smith provide a window into some o the last few chapters of the Bible, including Revelation 19-21.  Chapter 19's focus is on the Rider of the White Horse which clearly speaks of the actual second coming of Christ at the end of the Tribulation period and the ushering in of the Millennial reign of Christ on earth.  Chapter 20 continues to shed light on the Millennium and what happens right after it ends, which is the Great White Throne Judgement.  Chapter 21 gloriously explains the establishment of a new heaven and new earth and what eternity will look like for those of us who will experience it without pain, suffering, death, or separation.  What a powerful way the end of the world as we know it is described in these amazing chapters.  No wonder many a preacher has said, I've read the back of the book, and guess what?  WE WIN!  even so, come Lord Jesus!

In today's special edition of Indigenous Faith, the Smiths pause their study of biblical prophecies about Christ's second coming to focus their attention on biblical prophecies about Christ's first coming in this special Christmas edition of Indigenous Faith.  It's a special sermon Craig shares from his heart that shows a number of Old Testament prophecies about Christ's first coming then takes us to where those prophecies were fulfilled in the New Testament.  And that's why he calls this a special and unique kind of Christmas message because it's all about prophecies made and prophecies fulfilled.  The point is made that if all the over 300 messianic prophecies in the Old Testament about His first coming were fulfilled exactly as they were given over 700 years before these events ever happened, then we can trust the truthfulness of the over 1800 prophecies that foretell His second coming!  What a strong case we have in defending the things to come!  So as we approach this year's Christmas celebration, the Smiths hope that our hearts will be even more steadfast in believing the truths of the Bible!  It's believable, and important to base the remaining time we have left on planet earth upon!  May you deepen your love, trust, and hope found in Christ alone during this wonderful Christmas season!  Merry Christmas from Craig and LaDonna Smith, and Tribal Rescue Ministries!

The Smith's teaching on the Second Coming of Christ becomes very personal as Craig and LaDonna share about the glad reunion to come when they will be reunited with loved ones who have gone on before but will be resurrected to a new eternal state and be joined with all those who will be part of that "first resurrection!"  The reality that when this happens, we all will be delivered from not only the power of sin and the penalty of sin, but once and for all we all will be free from the very presence of sin as well!  What a glorious day that will be!  With those blessed thoughts come some important admonitions as well, including the reminder that no man knows the hour or the day when this will happen.  There's been foolish people in church history that predicted the date and sometimes even the hour when the rapture would occur, but as we all know now, they all were wrong.  And we don't want to be in that crowd who've grown a bit too big for their spiritual boots.  An important part of the end times prophetic teaching of Scripture includes what is called the Bema Seat of Christ, or, the judgement seat of Christ.  But this is not a judgement time that results in punishment.  It will be a time when Christians will be rewarded for the things they have done for Christ in their lives.  The analogy of two kinds of things will be judged by Christ, and that is illustrated by 1.), gold, silver, and precious stones, and 2.), wood, hay and stubble.  The fire will test us all.  If we've built up an array of gold, silver, and precious stones, the fire will only refine and purify these precious metals resulting in an increased value.  If we've built actions that amount to wood, hay, and stubble, the same fire will consume it all and we'll be left standing in a heap of burning ashes.  The admonition is clear, while we are still here, let's serve the Lord faithfully and build up the precious things that will last an eternity!  All interesting realities of end time living.  Will we be found faithful?  We pray that be the case!

In today's episode, the Smiths continue their presentation from Matthew 24, which is often referred to as the Olivet Discourse.  Here Jesus answers an important question asked by His disciples about the signs of His coming and the end of the age.  Craig reminds us that while they follow the literal interpretation of Scripture to arrive at their premillennial, pre-tribulation rapture beliefs, this does not mean you'll never find any analogy references within the literal translation.  As an example, Jesus compared His second coming to a pregnant mother and the birthing process.  The initial contractions mark the beginning of the process, while the full painful labor can represent the full painful time of The Great Tribulation, and the final push that delivers the baby can be seen as Christ's second coming which ends all the pain and the world enters into the new Millennial age.  From there, the Smiths transition from a thematic review of eschatology to a Scriptural overview of many verses that support each of the bullet points of the thematic review.  This is where the Scriptures come alive as God's Word lays out just what will happen throughout the stages of the end time prophetic events to come.  It's an exciting journey into both Old and New Testament passages all directed at things to come.  Are you ready, dear friend, for Christ's imminent return?  The Bride of Christ needs to have her lamps all trimmed and burning as we await the consummation of marriage when we are finally united with Christ throughout eternity.  What exciting days await us!  And there's still more to come!

In today's episode, Craig and LaDonna Smith continue to unpackage the response of Jesus to four of His disciples in Matthew 24 as they asked Him what would be the signs of His coming and the end of the age?  In what's commonly referred to as the Olivet Discourse, Jesus lists a wide variety of signs that would need to be fulfilled in preparation for the rapture of the church, the Great Tribulation period, His second coming, the Millennial reign, the Great White Throne Judgement, and the new heaven and new earth.  This singular teaching constitutes the most comprehensive insights we are given to help us prepare to meet the Lord when He comes again to planet earth.  Don't forget to go to the Smiths website, tribalrescue.com, and download and print their timeline document that is found on the site's home page right next to the podcast player.  it will help you keep track of the different aspects of end time events.  Craig and LaDonna hope and pray that this series will be helpful to you in your walk with Christ.  Knowing He is coming soon should be an important motivation for godly living and active service for Christ.  He's coming soon, friend.  Let's all be ready in great anticipation as we live out a victorious Indigenous Faith!

In today's very important episode, Craig and LaDonna Smith launch their in-depth study on the Second Coming of Christ in a series they are calling, The King is Coming!  After presenting eight preliminary episodes that help give proper context to the end times which are all based on God's Holy Word, they leave the starting gate into future world events that will usher in the end of the ages as we know it and Bring Back the King!  The Smiths remind their listeners that eschatology teaching is found in both the Old and New Testaments in a variety of books that when understood properly, give a true and accurate picture of future events.  Much of today's episode centers on what is referred to as Christ's Olivet Discourse, which is an extended teaching Jesus gave his disciples on what would be the signs of His second coming, which is found in Matthew 24.  Craig and LaDonna believe this is a great place to launch their series, as this passage covers a whole lot of things Jesus, Himself said would happen leading up to His return to earth.  And remember, He shared these things before ascending back to Heaven so He could be there to come again sometime in the future!  An interesting concept to ponder in and of itself!  Craig reminds us all about an important pdf document on the homepage of their tribalrescue.com website, situated right next to the podcast play button.  It's an end times timeline that they will be following in all the teaching sessions to come.  As Craig says in the audio, they encourage us all to either print it right from the website, or, download it to your computer and then print it so you have a permanent copy of this timeline moving forward.  Together, Craig and LaDonna look forward to taking us all down the road that leads to the imminent catching away of the believers in the rapture of the church, and then as they cover all other end time events that Scripture unfolds.  We hope you'll be with them all along the journey!

In this week's episode of Indigenous Faith, Craig and LaDonna Smith wrap up their preliminary teaching on getting the context right in their presentation on the 1,000 year time period spoken of in end times prophecy, or better known as the Millennium.  The Smiths clarify the position amillinneaists have which is based on an allegorical vs literal understanding of Scripture.  The present it in the context of church history, dating back to the 4th century when Catholic theologian, Augustine, made a case for it and it replaced the literal premillennialism position held by the Apostles and early church fathers.  The Smiths also present a second level of doctrine associated with premillennialism, and that being the doctrine of the rapture of the church (or the catching away), removing the church and the Holy Spirit's influence on the world, which paved the way for all hell to break loose during the tribulation period.  As in the three views of millennialism, those in the church who historically have held to the premillennialism view also have been faced with three views of when the rapture will take place, and it's all related to the time of Great Tribulation.  Does the rapture occur in a pre-Tribulation period, during the mid-portion of the Tribulation, or at the end of the Tribulation?  LaDonna turns to the parable of the Ten Virgins, as found in Matthew 25, to help clarify what a literalist would view as a pre-tribulation rapture.  After sharing all three Millennial and rapture positions, Craig presents the conviction the Smiths have and where their teaching will go in the weeks and months to come.  Clearly, the Smiths have a strong conviction in the pre-tribulation rapture of the church, which is connected to the pre-millennial return of Christ to planet earth.  After LaDonna's prayer over the teaching and listeners, Craig presents a brief review of what they have shared in the two months of preliminary teaching that helps us all get the context right.  Next week the Smiths begin the journey into eschatology that they pray will be clear, compelling, and motivational to a deeper level of commitment to Christ, and the fulfillment of His Great Commission as we work together to help Bring Back the King!

In this, the third episode on preliminary context, the Smiths continue to present teaching on a key timeframe that shapes prophetic teaching.  That timeframe extends for 1,000 years, or a millennium.  Today, the Smiths define the three major views the church has had historically about the Millennium of end time prophecy.  You'll learn about these three differing views, which are called Premillennialism, Postmillennialism, and a-millennialism.  Two rely on an allegorical interpretation of Scripture, while only one is built on a literal interpretation of God's Word.  The Smiths trust these preliminary sessions, first on Israel, and now on Millennialism will be helpful to you as they begin soon to get into the actual prophetic teaching that defines the last days on earth as we know it.  Changes are coming, dear friend, and it's important for us as believers in Christ to be prepared for these amazing world events that are already beginning to dominate the headlines of most major news outlets.  Scripture is literally being unfolded before our very eyes today and in such a way that shows the coming of the Lord is not far off!  Are you ready, dear friend?  The Smiths hope you are, and this important series will help you prepare even further as we await the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ...all right here on Indigenous Faith!

In today's second episode on Getting the Context Right - The Millennials, Craig and LaDonna Smith continue to lay preliminary context for listeners to understand what the Scriptures have to say about the end times.  In particular, the Smiths help define the seven year time period known as The Great Tribulation.  Half way through the Antichrist will commit what is called the Abomination of Desolation, when he sets himself up in the third temple as God.  But this third temple in Jerusalem is not built for God Himself, but it is built for the Antichrist, who will deceive the world and bring such devastation in especially the last half of that seven year period.  The center of the wrath of the Antichrist's fury is and will be the Children of Israel, but his anger will spread worldwide and affect all nations.  What a horrible time is coming for the world who chooses to reject the great salvation of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!  It reminds us, friends, that we need to be ready for these events to unfold by getting saved before it's too late.  Behold, now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation, the Scriptures say.  Are you ready, dear friend?  If not, don't delay!  Be saved today!  Cry out to Jesus, the Only One who can deliver us from the wrath to come!

In today's episode of Indigenous Faith, Craig and LaDonna Smith begin the second part of their preliminary teaching on getting the context right in understanding biblical prophecy.  In the first part, they provided the context for understanding the role Israel plays in end time teaching.  In this new part, they present contextual teaching on what is often referred to as the Millennium, or, 1,000 year time period in biblical prophecy.  In this series the Smiths underscore the importance of biblical prophecy in light of all other prophetic teaching found in the Bible.  The reason being is, since all the prophecies laid out in the Old Testament have been proven to be factual and true by historians about Christ's first coming, then it should go without saying that all the prophecies pertaining to Christ's second coming will be factual and true as well!  In this series, the Smiths present the differing ways the Millennium is interpreted by theologians and scholars.  It's important to understand that there are differences because if you are exposed to what your church believes, then find out other churches believe differently, it could be confusing and discouraging.  But make no mistake, there is one true way of understanding biblical prophecy, and by the end of this series, you will know where Craig and LaDonna Smith stand, which will constitute the teaching they will be presenting in this extended series they've titled, The King is Coming!  So please hear the Smith's heart on the all-important issue of biblical prophecy, especially in these introductory episodes that help provide the context for understanding what God's Word has to say about the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.  After all, it is the most exciting teaching the Word of God provides to mankind.  Do all you can to listen to each and every episode, which will help you learn and understand about these eternity altering truths right from the pages of God's Holy Word!  It's all right here on upcoming episodes of Indigenous Faith1

Today marks the fourth and final installment of the preliminary teaching the Smiths bring on the Indigenous Faith podcast about getting the context right.  And it all has to do with having the proper understanding of the nation of Israel and its role in end times teaching.  Throughout this four part series, the Smiths have presented the nation of Israel in ways you may not have understood to this point.  What makes this series so important is that it all comes from the pages of God's Holy Word.  If our understanding of Israel is wrong, or non-existent, we will struggle to understand eschatology and the return of Jesus Christ.  Burn these truths into your conscience and memory, dear friends, and you'll go a long way in understanding things to come.  Israel was the recipient of the first covenant, but when the second or new covenant was established by the shed blood of Christ, they, along with all the other nations of the world, must come to faith in Christ in order to be saved.  The fact that they returned to the Promised Land some 2,000 years after being scattered and dispersed throughout the world is an incredible miracle in and of itself, and crucial to the fulfillment of end time prophecy.  The Smiths encourage us all to keep our eyes and ears tuned to the happenings in the Middle East and all that pertains to Israel because we are literally seeing biblical prophecy being lived out and confirmed through these world events.  It all means one important thing. Jesus is coming again!  Let's be ready for His return as a watchman on the wall and help our families be prepared as well.  The Smiths look forward to bringing more context to end time prophecy in the next installment of pre-prophecy teaching on upcoming editions of Indigenous Faith!  We'll see you then, dear friend!  Tell others about the series, as they will benefit form it as well.

In today's episode, Craig and LaDonna continue to unpackage the importance of understanding the two historical covenants God made, the first with Israel and the second with the Church.  The Church has not replaced Israel, and now, since the day Jesus died on the Cross, Israel must join the other Gentile nations in obedience to the second covenant, which was established when Jesus shed His blood for the sins of the world.  We all must now come to faith in Christ alone if we are to be eternally saved.  This episode also uncovers the important reality that even though the nation of Israel was scattered and dispersed around the world 2,000 years ago, the most amazing miracle took place on May 14, 1948 when Israel once again was officially declared a nation as they regained their ancestral, God given homeland in the heart of the Middle East.  That single day will go down in human history as the beginning of the world's clock beginning to officially wind down to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ to earth!  That clock still ticks, and is nearing what some refer to as the Midnight Hour when the church is raptured, and seven years later, Jesus, and all His redeemed ones will return to earth to fight the final battle that ushers in an actual millennial reign of Christ on earth!  Wow, there's so much to cover as the Smiths walk us through the biblical teaching on the end days.  Even the preliminary sessions on getting the context right is an exciting journey into the Scriptures.  Imagine what the rest of the story will reveal about God's plan for mankind, the earth as we know it, and eternity's promise!  Stay tuned, dear friends, as the Smiths continue to teach on this exciting subject on this and upcoming editions of Indigenous Faith!

In this second episode of The King is Coming - Getting the Context Right, Craig and LaDonna Smith continue to present biblical passages that help us understand the role of Israel, not only in the whole panorama of the Bible, but specifically as it relates to end times teaching.  Craig and LaDonna give clear biblical context to the two covenants God has established historically.  The first covenant is specifically with the Jews, while the second covenant encompasses believers in Christ from every tribe, language, people, and nation.  The Smiths clarify two important false teachings, including Replacement Theology and Dual Covenant Theology.  Both are critical to understanding true biblical prophecy concerning the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Join Craig and LaDonna as the continue to lay the building blocks to an important foundation on which end times prophecy is built on as they continue to present God's Word in today's edition of Indigenous Faith.

In today's episode, Craig and LaDonna launch a brand new series titled "The King is Coming!"  It's going to be an extended teaching series on the second coming of Jesus Christ as outlined in the Scriptures.  The first part of the series is all about getting the context right, which is important to understanding what the Bible really says about the end times.  The first part of context has to do with the people of Israel and their role in end time events.  There's different interpretations of what the Bible teaches but Craig and LaDonna focus on what they believe with all their heart is what the Scriptures clearly say about God's Chosen People.  As we go into further episodes in this first part of the teaching, the Smiths will grapple with questions like, "Is God done with Israel?  Has He replaced Israel as His people of the Covenant with the Church and sees the church as taking over Israel's role in the world?  There's so much to cover in this series on what the theologians refer to as "eschatology."  But before they do, the Smiths share their heart in a moving tribute to Charlie Kirk, who was gunned down on the campus of Utah Valley University on September 10th.  Thank you for joining the Smiths as they present this week's edition of Indigenous Faith!

In this, the third and final episode of this amazing visit with T.J. Valtierra, the Smiths as this great young leader of the future what his hopes, dreams, and vision is for his life and ministry, and the inner-city that is so heavy on his heart.  T.J. truly does have vision, and he articulates it in a clear and compelling way.  In what is a real ongoing redemption story, God has taken this former prodigal, saved him, delivered him, and now uses him to spread the gospel in not only word, but in deed as well.  Aren't you blessed to hear this story?  There's not many that can match the total amazingness of this life and hope story.  And as heavy the discussion has been over these three episodes, the episode ends on a wonderful high not as T.J. talks about being honored by the Minnesota Vikings professional football team for his community service as one of their Hometown Heroes recognition.  Included in that honor were two tickets to that year's Super Bowl!  It's true that every once and a while God shows great favor on His servants.  And for T.J., this was a great honor.  It makes us wonder about the honors that are in store for faithful servants like T.J. Valtierra in heaven.  As good as this earthly honor was, I'll be looking to see his eternal reward in a. place called Paradise!  That's a long way from the inner-city mayhem he's been faithful to serve in here on earth!  What a great story!  What a great God!

As the Smiths continue their fascinating interview with T.J. Valtierra, T.J. shares how even with such a tough upbringing for all his siblings, including crime, drugs, abuses, gangs, prison, shootings, stabbings, etc., all his siblings now share the gospel of Jesus Christ after He did a salvation work in all their lives!  In what continues to be an incredible story of this Native family, we see the redemptive work of the Lord Jesus in some very powerful ways.  From there, the discussion moves to how the story that made international news a few years ago about George Floyd hit very close to home for T.J. and his family.  T.J. shares his heart on what he and the whole city of Minneapolis experienced in the aftermath of Floyd's death at the hands of Minneapolis police officers.  T.J.'s perspective is filled with wisdom that transcends politics and the divisive nature of that difficult time in America's recent history that's worth the time to listen to what he has to say.  The more and more the Smiths get to know this dear brother in Christ, the greater respect they have for him and the God T.J. serves.  This is a story worth listening to, and we're glad you are along for the ride!  To God be the glory, great things He has done is all the Smiths are left with saying as they heard his story first hand, and now bring to you, faithful listeners to the Indigenous Faith podcast/broadcast.  Be blessed, dear friends, as you listen to this second part of the remarkable VIP interview with T.J. Valtierra on Indigenous Faith!

The Navajo have a very expressive term for the English expression, "Oh my goodness!"  It's Yah-di-lah!  All LaDonna and Craig Smith can say regarding the life story of this truly Victorious Indigenous Person, T.J. Valtierra is,  YAH-DI LAH!  The backstory of this amazing servant of Christ is so incredibly challenging it seems even Hollywood would find it hard pressed to capture it in a blockbuster movie!  But true it is, as told right from this amazing warrior for Christ, T.J. Valtierra.  Like many Native people in North America, T.J. and his family was raised in the urban inner-city.  His parents continue to maintain a faithful ministry of over fifty-years, and yet, for all his siblings, crime, drugs, violence, gangs, and other inner-city woes are their stories.  But yet, as you'll hear in this amazing multi-episode series, there is redemption for all at the foot of the cross.  Now, T.J. is one of the most powerful young Native preachers in all of Native North America as he continues to serve the Lord in the same inner-city environment that stole so much of his youth and life.  The Smiths are privileged to work with T.J. and other young Native ministry workers through their ongoing partnership with On Eagle's Wings and their Warrior Leadership Summit, which is where the Smiths caught up with T.J. and his beautiful young family in the summer of 2025.  This is one story you will not want to miss one episode of dear friends.  What's better than reading about the life and times of T.J. Valtierra?  Well, listening to the life and times of T.J. Valtierra!  So without any further delay, the Smiths are excited to share with you this remarkable VIP visit with their dear brother in Christ, T.J.!

In this third and final episode in this VIP series with Colleen Estes and Mario Keeper from the remote First Nations community of Pikangikum, Ontario, Canada, these two warriors for Christ continue to share about the new work of God in their lives, as well as their community.  Known historically as one of the darkest communities in Native North America with way too many suicides, substance abuses, etc., hope is on the horizon through the power of the Spirit of God now at move in new and unprecedented ways.  Mario's renewal in his heart with his God is resulting in him completing a degree he was so close to completing nearly a decade ago, and now knows God's calling him into pastoral ministry!  Whether that be in Pikangikum or somewhere else, the Smiths are confident that God will use all he's gone through and how God has worked in his life recently, to become a powerful proclaimer of the liberating truth of the gospel.  And the Smiths continue to thank the Lord for the faithfulness of their dear sister and colleague in ministry, Colleen Estes, as she continues to serve the the Lord until He takes her home and they lay her body in the ground in her beloved community of Pikangikum.  She is truly a hero of the faith just like the mighty men of valor and great sufferers Hebrews refers to, and of whom is said, The world was not worthy of!  The Smiths pray the Lord will have encouraged your own heart and soul by the faith of these two servants of Christ, so different, so diverse, yet so close to the Lord and to each other.  It illustrates the power of the Lord to bring those who come from such diverse backgrounds and upbringings together into a team that serves Christ and His Great Commission so well.  Mario and Colleen, great is your reward in heaven!

In today's episode, Mario Keeper tells of the healing power of Christ in his life in dealing with the loss over the years of three siblings to suicide, and how he now has not only a renewed passion for Christ, but for his community as well.  Colleen Estes shares the impact Mario and other Native young believers are having in the community as their lives are given over to Christ.  The discussion then changes to the serious challenges they and other northern communities have experienced not only in past years, but even this year, and even while they've been at the Warrior Leadership Summit as raging wildfires threaten northern communities including Pikangikum.  So many challenges, yet God continues to work in and through these two servants of Christ.  This, the most isolated community in all of Native North America, yet Pikangikum was the largest community represented at WLS this year!  Truly, the Scriptures Colleen claimed about sowing in tears yet reaping in joy were being fulfilled right before her eyes, and the Smith's were eyewitnesses to that reality.  Stay tuned next week, dear friend, for the final episode in this amazing VIP visit with Colleen Estes and Mario Keeper!  You won't want to miss it!

Today the Smiths begin a new VIP interview series with Colleen Estes and Mario Keeper.  Two people who's backgrounds are so diverse and different, only the Divine leading of the Spirit of God could ever bring these two stories together, merging into an amazing story of faithfulness of a missionary, and the new work of God in a man who has faced such tragedy and adversity in his life, only God could redeem and remake such a life into a productive leader for the future.  And it's a community that brings these two stories together.  It's the community of Pikangikum, Ontario, Canada.  Known as one of the most painful communities in all of Native North America, it has an international reputation as a place of darkness, death, substance abuse and suicides that are off the charts compared to the rest of Canada.  But in this place, the Spirit of God is at work, moving through the faithfulness of servants of God like Colleen, and moving in the hearts and lives of a generation of young men like Mario.  Today, and in the weeks to come, you'll learn about the amazing work of God happening in Pikangikum, a place that has been visited by Craig and LaDonna Smith and the On Eagle's Wings ministry.  This series comes to you from an interview Craig and LaDonna did with Mario and Colleen at the recent Warrior Leadership Summit, sponsored by the On Eagle's Wings ministry.  Get ready to be blessed beyond imagination as you are reminded about the redemptive power of Jesus Christ and His powerful gospel message!

Craig and LaDonna wrap up their three part visit with On Eagle's Wings team members, Adrian Staples and Miles Davenport.  These two young warriors for Christ continue sharing how God has been working in their lives through their involvement in the On Eagle's Wings Summer of Hope tours and by attending the one year intense discipleship program offered OEW team members at the brand new OEW Leadership Center in Harrison, AR.  The two complete their visit with the Smiths by sharing how they sense God is calling them into future full-time ministry.  The Smith's know you'll be greatly encouraged to see how these two young men, who are young in their faith but yet show great wisdom, faith, and maturity from the strong discipleship they have received through the On Eagle's Wings ministry.  They truly will become leaders in their generation for Christ!  Now that's a real Victorious Indigenous Person!  The Smiths love sharing the stories of mighty men and women of God in the Indigenous Faith broadcasts.  Why?  Because if God can use young men like Adrian and Miles, there's hope that He can use you as well if you only surrender to the Lordship of Christ in your life!  Tune in next week as the Smiths turn are attention northward, across the US Canadian border, as we visit with a real hero of the faith and another younger Native follower of Christ who also shows great potential for a lifetime of service in Native ministry!  All on the Indigenous Faith podcast/broadcast!  We'll see you then!

Craig and LaDonna continue their VIP visit with On Eagle's Wings team members Adrian Staples (Ojibwe) and Miles Davenport (Meskwaki).  These young warriors for Christ share about their early days of being discipled and how they got introduced to the ministry of On Eagle's Wings and their annual Warrior Leadership Summit (WLS).  They share about their experiences at the Summit, including the impact of seeing hundreds of Native young adults from many tribes across North America worshipping the God that was now in their lives.  From their experience at WLS, they quickly applied to join the On Eagle's Wings on their Summer of Hope evangelistic tour to Native communities way beyond what their exposure was previously.  Their story is a shared experience, not only between these two young men, but the many Native youth who have served on past On Eagle's Wings teams.  You'll be encouraged as their stories continue to unfold on this and the next episodes of Indigenous Faith.  The Smiths ask you to pray for all the young warriors who join this incredible Native youth ministry.  They are fast becoming the leaders for the next generation should the Lord hold back His imminent return.  Until He does, we will continue to bring you the stories of VIP's like Adrian and Miles through the Indigenous Faith podcast/broadcast.  See you next week!

Today, the Smiths launch a VIP visit with two young, next generational Native leaders serving with the On Eagle's Wings team.  Adrian Staples is a home boy from Cass Lake, MN and actually a relative of Craig's.  Craig's grandmother was a Staples, so the family ties are there.  Miles Davenport is from Tama, IA, and represents the Meskwaki Tribe, which is part of the Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa.  Together these two resemble Paul and Barnabas of the New Testament who have become very close and serve throughout the years in ministry work, along side of their leadership roles with On Eagle's Wings.  In today's episode, both Miles and Adrian share their backstories of how and when they came to Christ.  Both experienced genuine salvation but in very different ways and circumstances.  But now their service for the Lord is build upon a passionate devotion to Christ.  You'll be encouraged by the ministries these young men share in together, and the number of lives they've impacted for Christ already.  Both men articulate a strong calling to minister the gospel as a life calling, and that bodes well for the future of Native evangelical ministry.  What a joy it is for Craig and LaDonna to bring to you the life and times of these two amazing warriors for Christ!  They know you'll be blessed as you join them for each episode to follow!  Stay strong, dear friend, in your own walk in the Lord as these two men are doing.  See you next week!

In today's final episode with our wonderful guest, Pastor Joel Van Hoogen, the Smiths draw out of brother Joel as much information as they could because of the importance of the message he brings.  Saving Evangelicals is not just a ordinary book, but the subject matter is life and death!  In all these four sessions, Joel does a fantastic job in articulating his deep concern about helping all who reach out to Jesus for salvation actually find that true and lasting work of God in their lives.  It all starts before we ever come to Christ with an awakening that goes much deeper thank a specific sin or habit I'd like out of my life, but an agonizing realization just how lost I am.  From there, Joel lays a total of six building block experiences we should have and are experiencing with the Lord if our salvation is truly genuine.  The Smiths encourage you once again to tell as many of your friends at church, in your family, and those others you love too deeply to lose to take an honest listen to  all four episodes which will help ensure the faith we embrace is a saving faith and one that is built on the powerful work of God in our lives.  Thank you, Joel, for the courage to write what you wrote, then join outlets like Indigenous Faith to bring these truths to as many people as possible.  The Smiths continue to pray that the programs they offer on the Indigenous Faith podcast/broadcast will continue to strengthen you in your spiritual life until Jesus comes again!  See you next week!

If you've been encouraged and challenged by the past two episodes the Smiths have had with Joel Van Hoogen as he unpackages his book, Saving Evangelicals, then you're in for a real treat today!  Joel continues to speak about the six encounters with God anyone who is truly saved can look back on in their lives when the Spirit of God led them to a genuine saving faith brought about by true repentance in their lives.  Some, as he describes, are internal, while others are external, or visible to those around us...such as a changed life that is lived much differently than before a person "prayed a prayer" to ask Jesus into their lives and forgive them of their sin.  Craig and LaDonna believe this series is so important for listeners to hear they encourage everyone tuning in to go back and start from the beginning and listen with note paper and pen in hand to jot down important points that will help you do a self-examination to see if you truly are in the faith.  Better yet, get ahold of Joel's book at outlets like Amazon.com because the book is also a study guide, helping each reader do that biblically prescribed self-examination as outlined in 2 Corinthians 13:5.  It's Craig and LaDonna's great desire to bring to listeners of the Indigenous Faith broadcast some of the most important teaching that will help build biblically healthy Indigenous followers of Christ in the context of the cultures, communities, and traditions.  This is one series that nobody should miss!  So, tell your friends about it and share about it to as many people, including your spiritual leaders in your home church.  They will benefit from it, too!  We've got one more episode in this series, friends, so be sure to join us next week for the final visit with Joel Van Hoogen and his Saving Evangelicals!

In this second episode on Saving Evangelicals, Craig and LaDonna Smith and Joel Van Hoogen continue to discuss the fascinating book Joel wrote that helps anybody who is questioning the reality of their faith in Christ do a self-examination to, as the scriptures say, determine whether or not you are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5).  As the discussion ensues, brother Van Hoogen explains what salvation is, and what it is not, as we begin unpacking six experiences in the salvation process Joel says should be a part of the life of every genuine believer in Christ.  It's good to know that the scriptures further confirm that we can know that we truly are saved according to God's Word.  That's good news for all of us!  Craig and LaDonna are so pleased to be able to present this series with you, our faithful listening audience, and we hope you'll spread the word to others about this timely topic.  Please hear what the Spirit of God is saying to us all as we seek to live in and abundant and assured life in our salvation experience!

Today, Craig and LaDonna Smith start a new and fascinating series with Pastor Joel Van Hoogen of Boise, ID.  Joel also leads and international equipping ministry called Church Partnership Evangelism, Inc.  He is author of a book titled, Saving Evangelicals, which is an interesting look into the issue of our personal salvation.  Van Hoogen suggests that not all people who think they are believers in Christ are actually saved, an important concept that has good strong biblical support (Matthew 7:21-23).  In this multiple episode series, the Smiths delve into the topic deeper with Pastor Joel as he explains how we all can do a self-examination to see if we are truly in the faith.  Don't miss one single episode of this powerful and important visit with Rev. Van Hoogen.  It's all about the assurance of our salvation, and Joel states that there are six prominent parts or experiences we. have with God in the salvation process.  Joel quotes 2 Corinthians 13:5, where it says, Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test, as the biblical basis for this self-examination or test.  You can access the book at Amazon.com in both print and e-book formats.  Dig into this important issue with the Smiths  on this and upcoming episodes of Indigenous Faith.

In this, the final episode of our series with Ken and Becky Berge, their family opens the program by sharing the title song of one of their CD's called Trusting You.  It so beautifully sets the stage as the theme of this whole series, and especially this final episode.  Craig asks Ken and Becky to share the lessons God has taught them through their many years in gospel music, and in particular how they transitioned in the changing seasons of life when their performance ministry ended with the marriages of their daughters and sons-in-law and the godly beginnings of a new generation, who, by the way, continue in their own music as family units and occasionally share their songs at the annual Lake Itasca Family Music Festival.  The broadcast is brought to a close by two songs, one from Craig and LaDonna and the other a fitting Acapella rendition of The Berge Family singing the old classic chorus, Thank You, Lord.  Yes, both the Smiths and Berge's give thanks to the Lord for how He has and continues to use them to spread the gospel through song, teaching, preaching, and godly living in these last days.  We hope you've enjoyed all the episodes in this moving series, and especially, the addition of the family's recordings of the songs that are near and dear to their hearts.  Remind others that they can listen to every episode in the series by simply going to tribalrescue.com and clicking on the archived programs just below the play button on the Smith's homepage.  Craig and LaDonna look forward to upcoming episodes with new interviews, insights, and teaching in the days, weeks, months, and years to come!  God bless you, dear listener and may your faith, be it Indigenous or not, continue to grow in the knowledge of grace and truth!  See you next week for another edition of Indigenous Faith!

After another foot-tapping bluegrass song from The Berge Family, Ken and Becky continue to unpackage the wonderful journey the Lord took them through in their family's popular bluegrass music ministry.  But the list gets serious fast as Craig and LaDonna asks them about a very serious crossroads that many families face when the children who are part of the music team grow and blossom into young adults and as one popular song says, Love is in the air....!  How does a family deal with what inevitably happens when marriages take place and the old way of doing things meets this major decision making time.  Do we continue singing, which we enjoy so much and God seems to be blessing it so well, or do we have to change, or even close down this wonderful chapter in our lives because the lead singer and instrumentalist now has a family of their own?  Ken and Becky shared how they transitioned into a new chapter of powerful ministry and influence by launching a family music festival that in the 18th year of it, in 2024, drew close to 3,500 attendees and has launched a number of family music ministry teams who carry on the legacy of The Berge Family!  We're taking about the annual Lake Itasca Family Music Festival which is in walking distance to the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi River.  The dates for 2025 are Friday, August 1 through Sunday, August 3.  You can learn more about it and see this year's lineup of head line groups at familybluegrass.com.  What an inspiration this family is in their ongoing ministry through the festival.  Maybe a northern Minnesota vacation might be in your plans once you hear today's exciting episode, bookmarked by a song from both the Berge and Smith Family ministry teams.  Be blessed and see you next week for our final visit with The Berge Family.

After a foot-tapping bluegrass song by The Berge Family, the Smiths and Berges continue to share about the early development of their family's music ministries, and how those ministries became a very important part of what they did for the Lord.  The session then turns towards one of the most difficult challenges any family ministry group faces, that of what happens when the children grow up and enter into that transitional season when love is in the air, relationships begin that end up in marriages that can and often do bring immense change on any family group. The question is, what then?  How should a family face times like that when change could change a ministry that God is powerfully using?  Ken Berge addresses this challenge by encouraging listeners to allow for the natural transition to a new generation of families, even if it means significant change or even the ending of a great run of family music ministry.  The session ends with a meaningful song from the Smiths that feature Craig's father, Ray Smith, in the classic old gospel song, I Should Have Been Crucified, in a re-recording of the Smith Family Trio's version of the song they originally recorded in 1974.  Be blessed, dear friend, as our two family's share in the music that shaped decades of our family's life.

Today the Smiths continue their interview with Ken and Becky Berge on the topic of family based ministry.  For the Smiths and Berges, it's all about music.  The episode begins with a song Craig and LaDonna recorded in both English and Navajo called, I Must Tell Jesus, and it ends with a beautiful A capella rendition of Beulah Land by the Berge Family.  In-between, the Smiths and Berges continue their discussion about Ken and Becky and the Berge family's interesting backstory, which includes some fascinating stories that involve WWII, love, and marriage.  Two couples from two different families and backgrounds, and a loving God who called them into serving the Lord as a family ministry team are what these episodes are all about.  There truly is power in family based ministry, and as this story continues to unfold in the next few weeks, you'll see that clearly.  Craig and LaDonna also pray you will be blessed by the addition of the songs of both the Smiths and Berges in each of the sessions in this series.  The Smiths and Berges embody the biblical admonition to, Make a joyful noise unto the Lord all the earth.  Come before is presence with singing...