Sweet Jesus

What does it actually mean to be a "good and faithful servant"? Join Emil and Scott for a deep dive into the Parable of the Talents. We discuss why everything we have is a gift from God, the importance of quality in our work, and how the grace of Jesus frees us from the fear of human judgment.Looking to take God's mission more seriously? Check out Pastor Emil's book: https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series: https://a.co/d/0c5TRWrl#BibleStudy #Parables #JesusTeaches #Faithfulness #Christianity101 #parablesofjesus #Godsmission

Mike and Emil dive into the heart of political violence and dehumanizing rhetoric in America. We explore why Christians must stop treating politics like an idol and start engaging in their local communities with a focus on repentance and unity.Looking to take God's mission more seriously? Check out Pastor Emil's book: https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series: https://a.co/d/0c5TRWrl#ChristianPolitics #HealingAmerica #SweetJesusPodcast #EndPolarization#GodsMission #JesusFirst #PoliticsSecond #J1P2 #politicalviolence #WHCD #trumpassassinationattempt #WeNeedJesus #ComeLordJesus #Lordhavemercy #repentance #ChristianNationalism

In this video, we dive deep into the often-misunderstood "End Times" passages to uncover a biblical perspective that predates modern dispensationalism. For 1,800 years, the Church held a view of the second coming that looks nothing like the "secret rapture" popularized by John Nelson Darby in the 1830s.What we cover:Matthew 24:36-51 & The Days of Noah: We examine why being "taken" in this context actually refers to being swept away in judgment—just like the wicked in the time of the Flood. If you follow the pattern of Noah, it’s the righteous who are "left behind" to inherit the earth.1 Thessalonians 4:13-18: We look at the Greek word apantēsis (to meet), which historically described a delegation of citizens going out to meet a king and escorting him back into their city. It’s not about a permanent exit to heaven, but welcoming the King to His creation.Revelation 21:1-4 & God’s Final Plan: The ultimate goal isn't us going up to live with God in a distant heaven, but God coming down to dwell with us in a renewed Heaven and Earth.The Darby Legacy: A look at how dispensationalism and the "secret rapture" were late additions to theology, spread primarily through the Scofield Reference Bible and modern pop culture.If you’ve always felt like the popular "Left Behind" narrative didn't quite fit the text, this study is for you. Let's return to the historic Christian hope of resurrection and the restoration of all things.Looking to take God's mission more seriously in light of Christ's return? Check out Pastor Emil's book: https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series: https://a.co/d/0c5TRWrl#EndTimes #SecondComing #Jesus #Rapture #Matthew24 #Theology #ChristianHistory #LeftBehind #NewCreation #BibleProphecy #ChurchHistory

Why does politics leave so many people angry, anxious, and hopeless? In this episode, Emil and Mike discuss despair, division, tribalism, and why Jesus - not politics - is the true source of hope. A thoughtful conversation on faith, suffering, and peace in a polarized world.Looking to take God's mission more seriously? Check out Pastor Emil's book: https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series: https://a.co/d/0c5TRWrl#SweetJesus #despair #JesusFirst #PoliticsSecond #J1P2 #ChristianPodcast #FaithandPolitics #HopeinChrist #Gospel #politicaldivision #politicalexhaustion #democrats #republicans #ChristianNationalism #GodsMission

In this episode, we dive deep into Mark 13, one of the most debated and profound chapters in the New Testament. Often called the Olivet Discourse, this passage records Jesus' final major prophetic teaching delivered from the Mount of Olives.In this study, we explore:The Destruction of the Temple: Why the disciples were shocked by Jesus' prophecy that "not one stone will be left upon another" and its historical fulfillment in AD 70.The Signs of the End: Understanding "birth pains"—wars, famines, and earthquakes—and why Jesus warned they are just the beginning, not the end.The Abomination of Desolation: What this mysterious sign meant for first-century believers and what it reveals about future tribulation.The Second Coming: The unmistakable, glorious return of the Son of Man in the clouds and the gathering of the elect.The Call to Watchfulness: Why Jesus emphasizes staying awake and being spiritually prepared rather than speculating on dates and times.Whether you're looking for historical context or spiritual encouragement, Mark 13 reminds us that even when the world is shaking, God remains in control.Looking to take God's mission more seriously? Check out Pastor Emil's book: https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series: https://a.co/d/0c5TRWrl#Mark13 #BibleStudy #EndTimes #JesusProphecy #OlivetDiscourse #SecondComing #ChristianFaith #BibleProphecy #FallOfJerusalem #StayAwake #LittleApocalypse #faith #jesus #biblestudy #parableofjesus

What would you say with your final breath? In this episode of Sweet Jesus, we dive into the 'Seven Last Words' of Jesus—the powerful, final statements He made from the cross. These aren't just historical footnotes; they are an 'ultimate sermon' that models the path of forgiveness, mercy, and triumph. Join us as we explore each saying, from the cry for forgiveness to the final shout of victory, 'It is finished!'. Whether you're seeking clarity or comfort, discover how these ancient words speak directly to your life today.Looking to take God's mission more seriously? Check out Pastor Emil's book: https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series: https://a.co/d/0c5TRWrl#7LastWords #SevenLastWords #WordsFromTheCross #PassionOfChrist #ItIsFinished #Calvary #BibleStudy #Gospel #ChristianPodcast #ChristianLiving #Scripture #Theology #Jesus #Faith #Christian #JesusChrist #GodIsGood #Lent2026 #GoodFriday #FaithBasedContent #Jesus #faith #spiritualgrowth #HolyWeek #sweetjesus #tasteandseethatthelordisgood #jesusissweeter #godslove #godlovesyou

You've probably been there. A friend posts something. You see it. Your jaw tightens. You want to say something. And then something in you breaks loose and you do.Pastor Emil and Mike Hughes talk through what happens when politics starts costing you the people who matter. Emil shares the moment a heated Facebook thread with a fellow pastor made him realize he was treating his faith like ammunition and his friends like targets. The politics was loud. The gospel was nowhere in sight.They dig into what it actually looks like to humanize someone you think is wrong, why both sides of the aisle have reduced real people to caricatures, and how staying in relationship across disagreement might be the most countercultural thing a Christian can do right now.This is not about surrendering conviction. It's about remembering who you're supposed to be before the next news cycle hits.The Jesus First. Politics Second. 21-day workbook is built for exactly this kind of moment. Want to be part of the launch community? Send Pastor Emil a message at [email protected] every conversation in the Jesus First, Politics Second playlist.Looking to take God's mission more seriously? Check out Pastor Emil's book: https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series: https://a.co/d/0c5TRWrl#JesusFirst #PoliticsSecond #j1p2 #JesusFirstPoliticsSecond #PoliticalDetox #FaithAndPolitics #ChristianLiving #PoliticalExhaustion #OutrageCulture #LostFriendship #FaithOverFear #SpiritualGrowth #PastorEmil #ChristianPodcast #GodisinControl#sweetjesus #tasteandseethatthelordisgood #addictedtosocialmedia #addictedtopolitics #democrats #republicans #faith #jesus #thinksmall #serenityprayer #godsgotthis #Godsmission #evangelism #sobriety #selfcontrol #brokenrelationships #personalgrowth #NewsAddiction #SpiritualDisciplines #PoliticalExhaustion #ChristianLiving #FaithAndPolitics #ShareTheGospel #PastorEmil

Why is it so hard to accept God on His terms? 🎬In this episode, Emil dives into the Parable of the Wedding Feast (Matthew 22) and the uncomfortable reality it reveals about the human heart. Using a surprising parallel from The Godfather, we explore why we struggle to give God the respect He deserves and why we often try to "edit" the Truth to fit our own lives.We aren't talking about being "perfect" followers—we’re talking about the daily battle of dying to our own self-righteousness. From the struggle of modern legalism to the weight of personal suffering, we discuss how the "wedding garment" of Christ is the only thing that covers our brokenness.It’s time to stop coming to the table with our own conditions and start resting in His grace.📖 Check out Emil’s Books on Amazon:Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus – https://a.co/d/0eBoMipWNobody's Nola – https://a.co/d/0aFuKT7mNola's Icelandic Adventure – https://a.co/d/05sXsZiCNola's Nantucket Rescue – https://a.co/d/0ePW7ITm#Matthew22 #FaithStruggles #TheGodfather #BibleStudy #ChristianPodcast #GraceAndTruth #OpenARMS #NolasAdventures #EmilGretarsson #ChristianLiving #truth #jesus #hardsayingsofJesus #parablesofJesus

Stop Letting the News Cycle Control Your Brain 🧠 Are you feeling overwhelmed by the constant noise of politics, social media, and the "background hum" of anxiety? You aren’t alone.In this episode, Emil and Mike dive deep into why negative emotions like fear and anger are so addictive—literally affecting our brain’s dopamine—and how we can reclaim our mental space. Mike shares his personal struggle with AI-related career anxiety, while Emil breaks down how we can use the teachings of Jesus to detox from the 24/7 news cycle.In this video, we discuss:The "God Complex": Why we try to control things we weren't meant to carry.Brain Power: How political obsession consumes 30% of your mental capacity.Law vs. Gospel: Applying Lutheran theology to modern political discourse.The 21-Day Detox: A first look at our new workbook designed to help you find clarity and spiritual focus.It’s time to stop the scroll and start finding joy again.#MentalHealth #Christianity #NewsAddiction #PeaceOfMind #JesusTeaches #DigitalDetox #FaithOverFear #PoliticalAnxiety #spiritualgrowth Looking to take God's Mission more seriously? Check out my book: https://a.co/d/03mRODt3 Have kids? Check out the children's book series my wife and I put together: https://a.co/d/0c5TRWrl

St. Patrick is one of the most famous saints in history — but how much of what people know about him is actually true? In this episode, we explore the real Patrick through his own writings, tracing his journey from captivity to mission, and separating historical fact from later legend. This is the story of a humble, bold, and deeply faithful man whose life still speaks today.#StPatrick #SaintPatrick #ChurchHistory #ChristianPodcast #IrishHistory #ChristianBiography #godsmission #loveyourenemies #forgive #tasteamdseethatthelordisgood #sweetjesusJoin me and Scott as we take a look at The Parable of the Wicked Tenants. It's a tough parable, as most parables of Jesus are. Thankfully we found a way to get to some things that remind us how SWEET Jesus really is.Looking to take God's Mission more seriously? Check out my book:https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series my wife and I put together:https://a.co/d/03PCEK4e

Join me and Scott as we take a look at The Parable of the Wicked Tenants. It's a tough parable, as most parables of Jesus are. Thankfully we found a way to get to some things that remind us how SWEET Jesus really is.Looking to take God's Mission more seriously? Check out my book:https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series my wife and I put together:https://www.amazon.com/stores/Emil-Gr...#faith #jesus #biblestudy #parableofjesus #Godsmission #evangelism #sharethegospel #sweetjesus #tasteandseethatthelordisgood #jesusissweeter

The Parable of the Ten Minas is quite a doozy. Once again, Jesus speaks some HARSH words. What does it mean for us? Join me and Scott as we take a look. Looking to take God's Mission more seriously? Check out my book:https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series my wife and I put together:https://www.amazon.com/stores/Emil-Gretarsson/author/B0C5KFSZT2?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true#faith #jesus #biblestudy #parableofjesus #Godsmission #evangelism #sharethegospel #jordanpeterson #takeachance #judgment #timtebow #

Join me and my friend Mike as he shares a bit about how Jesus has helped him navigate #ocd #addiction #autismspectrum #scrupulosityocd and the overwhelming transcendance and holiness of God. #sweetjesus #tasteandseethatthelordisgood

“But Jesus… that’s NOT FAIR!”Ever read the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard and think,“Hold up — that doesn’t seem right…”In Matthew 20:1–16, Jesus tells a story that flips our sense of fairness upside down. Workers who labored all day get paid the same as those who showed up at the last hour.So what gives? Is God unfair?Or are we addicted to comparison?Do we actually want justice… or do we desperately need grace?In EP-180, we unpack: Why this parable offended people The danger of comparison in the Christian life Grace vs. entitlement What this reveals about the heart of GodIf you’ve ever struggled with jealousy, feeling overlooked, or questioning God’s fairness — this one hits home. Matthew 20:1–16 EP-180 – The Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard#ButJesus#ThatsNotFair#ParableOfTheLaborers#LaborersInTheVineyard#Matthew20#BibleTeaching#ChristianPodcast#Grace#FaithTalk#GospelMessage#ChristianYouTube#BibleStudy#JesusTeaching#KingdomOfGod#SweetJesusReady to get to work in the Lord’s Vineyard? Check out my book on living a life on God’s mission:https://a.co/d/06b17UKKYou can also support the channel by sharing the children’s book series my wife and I put together:https://a.co/d/09vDJSrq

Today is Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the season of Lent. If you have no idea what that means, you are in the right place! Join us as we take a look at some ancient spiritual disciplines and a long standing series of traditions in the Christian Church.

Join me and Scott as we take a look at the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. We take an in depth look at what motivates us and where our ultimate trust really lies. Is our trust in JESUS? Or is it in any number of other terribly unstable things that turn us into big giant JERKS?#biblestudy #faith #jesus #trustinjesus #selfrighteousness #badbunny #tpusafaith #kidrock

The world is a dumpster fire. We can easily find ourselves wanting to give up or finding prayer and the life of faith to be exercises in futility. In Luke 18:1-8, Jesus gives us a parable that encourages us to persist and persevere in the faith.

Prepare to be offended! The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus is one that will offend everyone. Care and concern for the poor, heaven and hell, the sufficiency of the Word of God and more come up in this one. Join us as we try to sort through it all.

Luke 17:7-10 includes an interesting and often overlooked parable of Jesus. It's humbling, as many of Jesus' parables have been. Join us as we try to apply this to the life of faith.

Jesus said WHAT?Join me and Scott as we look at at time when Jesus told us to take advice from a dishonest manager.

Join me and Scott as we take a look at the arrival of the "Wise Men" or Magi at the home of Jesus. Are they really wise? How did they know? Why would God allow such suffering to result from Jesus' birth? Let's explore these thoughts together. #godslove #faith #faithinchrist #christmas #christmasstory #wisemen #magi #christisking #godisincontrol #godhasaplan

Continuing through the Christmas story, join me and Scott as we think about the shepherds and the message they heard from the angel.

Want to start a party in heaven? Join me and Scott as we take a look at a parable of Jesus that tells us how it happens.

Join me and Scott as we consider Jesus' parable in Luke 14:28-33 and count the cost of following him.

It's episode ONE. SIX. SEVEN! Join me and Scott as we take a look at Luke 14, with a slight detour into Proverbs as we celebrate episode one SIX SEVEN!

Join Pastor Emil and Scott as they take a look at Luke 13:1-9 and consider the pervasive use of the idea of karma to explain the world, and the troubling ways it distorts the truth.

Today we take a look at Jesus' parable in Luke 12:35-48. It's about the return of Christ and the end of the world. But it's not at all about what people usually get all worked up talking about. Jesus points us in a direction very few end times prophets seem to be focused on.

Join me and Scott as we talk about the parable of the rich fool!

Join us as we take a look at Luke 11:5-13 and talk #prayer We bounce around a bit, but bring it all back around. Pray!#jesus #faithinchrist #2chronicles714 #prayforamerica

Join me and Scott as we take a look at the parable of the Good Samaritan. We discuss how we are called to help the poor. We talk about the dueling ideas on how to address that in our country and the strengths and weaknesses of each. #faith #faithinchrist #jesus #parables #biblestudy #thegoodsamaritan

Join me and Scott as we talk about what might just be the most important spiritual truth for the significant cultural moment we are in following the political violence in our country: forgiveness.Join us as we take a look at Jesus' parable in Matthew 18:21-35.

Does Jesus have a problem with personal hygiene? Why? What does Monopoly money have to do with it? Join me and Scott as we sort through it all.

Who loves Jesus more? How do you grow in your love for Jesus? Join me and Scott as we explore this idea in our discussion of talk Luke 7:36-50.

Is your life on a shaky foundation? If it is, when the wind and rain come everything will fall. Building on a rock solid foundation is the only way to weather the storms of life. Today, Scott and I take a look at Jesus' words in Matthew 7:24-27 and consider what it means to build on ROCK instead of SAND. Join us!PS - our storage ran out and only part of the episode is included here. For the full episode go to the Sweet Jesus YouTube channel. https://youtu.be/CZj9StPasWI?si=f7Jac02h2RaPWE_k

Join us as we talk about what it means to be salt and light in a dark and flavorless world.

Luke 6:39 provided Scott and I with a TON of interesting stuff as we meditated on this passage. Leadership. Reconciliation. Humility. Self-reflection. And more!

Join me and Scott as we dig deeper into Matthew 12 and talk about the unifying theme of this section of Scripture where Jesus faces off against the Pharisees.

Join me and Scott as we consider Jesus' words in Matthew 12:22-32.

Scott and I have two guests today, Derrick and Vicki! Join us as we talk about Luke 14 and the parable of The Great Banquet. There sure is a lot more here than meets the eye. We talk about God's mission, and caring for the poor and homeless.

Why does Jesus tell a parable where the main characters are both RIGHT and both WRONG? Join me and Scott as we talk all kinds of things: faith, accountability, judgment, mission, and the reality that everyone really KNOWS the Gospel deep down.

Sell EVERYTHING, give it away, THEN come follow ME?Join me and Scott as we take a look at Matthew 19 and the story of the rich young man. We also end up in Matthew 20 and Matthew 11 as well.

Join me and Scott as we take a look at Mark 11. We found it to be FAR more fascinating than we realized and hope you will too.

Join me and Scott as we look at The Parable of the Net from Matthew 13:47-50 and talk consequences.Life is full of them! We need to acknowledge that and live our life in accordance with this reality. Jesus is not ALL about love and compassion. There is a time appointed when the offer of mercy and grace will end. Join us as we explore this not-so-heartwarming reality.

Join me and Scott as we talk about a road trip I recently took to St. Cloud, MN from way down here in Southeastern Louisiana.It involved the homeless man that used to sleep on our bench - Axel!

Join me and Scott as we take a look at Matthew 13:44-46!

Join Scott and I as we talk about how important small things are in the Kingdom of God.

So...We did a podcast...But the recording? Well...listen in for a minute or two and find out how to get the whole thing.

Join me and Scott as we continue to take a look at the parables of Jesus and the hard to understand and hard to apply teachings of Jesus. We take a look at Luke 14 and discuss the cost of discipleship on an appropriate day: the day Dietrich Bonhoeffer died.

Join me and Scott as we dig into Luke 5:33-39. What does wine have to do with the kingdom of God? What does new wine and old wineskins have to do with anything?We were kind of wondering the same thing. Listen to us try to sort through it all!

Join me and Scott as we dig into Jesus' parables. Why did Jesus speak in parables? What do they mean? We aren't too sure about many things, but we gave it a shot. Hope you enjoy!