The Bertonians

I got three things for you on this video: 1. a new merch drop, 2. a book update, and 3. an Easter reflection. This is a video you can watch on Spotify or YouTube. On all other platforms it will be just audio. Get the Hineni short here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/sanberto/Here are some resources that can help you in creating devotional practice: Logos Bible Software- www.logos.sjv.io/sanbertoGoodies- www.sanberto.com/links#Bible #Biblescholar #christianity #Jesuschrist

This is part three of an ongoing series titled The Spiritual Rhythms of Jesus. The disciples had prayed their whole lives, yet when they watched Jesus pray, they knew they still had something to learn. This episode explores why prayer is not something we outgrow, but something we keep learning.Scripture: Luke 11:1Links: www. sanberto.com/linksSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/o006x1zt34t30pphmq7wu/Prayer-2.0.pdf?rlkey=9yho9c01fnr5qn26g77c3vebm&st=4ugppf74&dl=0Accompanying Essay: https://new.express.adobe.com/webpage/agEM2T45hBe9ADonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

A short clip from the March 16, 2026 episode, Solitude: The Secret to a Healthy Spiritual Life. God sends us into the wilderness because there is nothing there for us to exploit. There, we must learn to be satisfied with God alone.

This is part two of an ongoing series titled The Spiritual Rhythms of Jesus. Most people avoid the wilderness because it is empty, quiet, and seemingly useless. Yet in Scripture, the wilderness appears again and again at the most decisive moments.Before Jesus public ministry began, the Spirit of God led him to the wilderness. Why would the Spirit lead someone there?In this episode, we explore Matthew 3:1–2 and 3:13–4:1, tracing a pattern that runs through the life of Jesus and throughout the biblical story. What happens in the wilderness? Why does it matter? And why does it keep showing up before the most important moments?The answers may challenge the way we think about silence, solitude, and preparation.Sometimes the most important work happens where no one else wants to go.Scripture: Matthew 3:1-2; 3:13-4:1Links: www. sanberto.com/linksSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/at3g02n0972mvfqsr2fyg/Solitude.pdf?rlkey=kdd5jibjtcz9liajm02t51msw&st=ie0uhzze&dl=0Accompanying Essay: Not published yetDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

This is part one of an ongoing series titled The Spiritual Rhythms of Jesus. This episode studies Jesus' pattern in the Gospels of escaping to be with God. This episode seeks to answer the question: why do I feel unsatisfied, and what do I do about it?Scripture: Mark 1:35Links: www. sanberto.com/linksSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/2cvhc2fyzqdmkprqf0ptx/Coming-to-God.pdf?rlkey=rdn90ukyuw5cn0ml4jh0375uc&st=8zcsxb6f&dl=0Accompanying Essay: Not published yetDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

What's in a name? And what does it cost to leave behind everything you know for something better? In this teaching, we meet a man whose name told the world God had abandoned him. When Jesus passes by, the beggar faces a question that sounds simple but cuts to the heart of faith itself: "What do you want me to do for you?"Passages explored: Luke 18:35–43, Mark 10:46-52Links: www. sanberto.com/linksSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/165gm3xh0si07l6inaj2l/Son-of_.pdf?rlkey=b7lvxic1j10e8pv84qj2cd6ql&st=96wsb1zf&dl=0Accompanying Essay: https://www.sanberto.com/single-post/son-ofDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

Ancient maps warned travelers at the edges of the known world with a simple phrase: here be dragons. It was a way of naming fear, uncertainty, and everything no one could control. This New Year’s message invites you to stand at the edge of your own map and consider what lies beyond what feels safe.Drawing from Acts 20–28, this episode traces the final movements of Paul’s life and the unfinished ending of the book of Acts. The story closes with a single word that reframes danger, obedience, and the unknown.As a new year begins, this sermon asks a quiet but unsettling question. What territory have you avoided naming as too risky to enter? And what might faith look like when the future remains uncharted?Scripture focus: Acts 20:22–23; Acts 21:11–13; Acts 28:30–31; Hebrews 11:8Links: www. sanberto.com/linksSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/yhby0luwb20k1adc7bpvb/Here-be-Dragons.pdf?rlkey=frhgctgyb7dfnfg885wkdtp6q&st=fb36swsu&dl=0Accompanying Essay: https://www.sanberto.com/single-post/here-be-dragonsDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

In this teaching, Pastor Alex explores the role of memory in the life of faith. Scripture repeatedly calls God’s people to remember—but just as often, it invites us to forget, to release, and to let go. Why does God care so much about what we hold onto in our minds and hearts? And how does memory shape the way we see the present moment?This episode reflects on how memory can either ground us in truth or trap us in the past, and how God reshapes our remembering so we can discern what he is doing right now. Rather than living stuck in nostalgia, regret, or fear, this teaching invites listeners to develop a faithful memory—one that clears our vision and opens us to God’s present work.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/i2799cyes7vsr4lt7rmdq/New-Things.pdf?rlkey=r6ldj362epm0p4uhda1j76o6p&st=ydn0n7cy&dl=0

Waiting is easy when it’s inconvenient. It’s much harder when it hurts.In this Advent reflection, Alex sits with one of Scripture’s most uncomfortable questions: How long? Drawing from the opening lament over Jerusalem, this episode explores the kind of waiting that doesn’t come with quick resolutions. The kind marked by silence, loss, and longing.Rather than rushing to hope, this conversation lingers in the ache, examining why Scripture makes space for mourning, why Advent begins in the dark, and what it means to wait with courage in a culture that avoids both grief and stillness.Scripture: Lamentations 1:1Links: ⁠www. sanberto.com/links⁠Donate: ⁠www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

In this conversation, Alex Portillo discusses the relationship between Christianity and religion, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Christianity as a religion rather than merely a relationship with God. He critiques the common phrase that Christianity is not a religion, arguing that it undermines the complexity of faith and the role of religion in shaping beliefs and practices. Portillo encourages Christians to engage with secular criticisms thoughtfully and to embrace their religious identity without shame.Here are some resources that can help you in creating a devotional practice: Logos Bible Software- www.logos.com/sanbertoInstagram - www.instagram.com/sanbertoalejandro Donate- www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertohttps://www.amazon.com/shop/sanbertoalejandroDonate- https://www.buymeacoffee.com/alexportilloCHAPTERS0:00 Introduction and Context1:45 Financial Audit with Kaleb Hammer Video 2:20 Hot Take: Christianity is a religion 4:04 What is Religion? 4:27 Why do Christians say Christianity is not a religion? 6:25 Why does this Matter? 7:40 A way forward -#Bible #Biblescholar #christianity #Jesuschrist

In this Advent message, Alex Portillo explores the profound question of why Jesus became human, emphasizing the themes of fragility, vulnerability, and the necessity of suffering for mercy. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on the immigrant experience, he illustrates how Christ's incarnation connects deeply with human suffering and weakness, ultimately presenting Jesus as the perfect Savior who understands and empathizes with our struggles.Text: Hebrews 4:15-16Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoChapters00:00 La Sagrada Familia02:40 The Immigrant Experience and Christ's Connection05:18 Understanding Fragility and Vulnerability07:28 The Nature of Christ's Incarnation09:33 The Necessity of Suffering for Mercy12:28 The Depth of Human Sorrow and Christ's Empathy14:25 God's Understanding of Our Weaknesses

In this conversation, Alex Portillo responds to a video claiming AI is in the Book of Daniel and Revelation. He discusses the implications of knowledge increase in the end times, the misinterpretations surrounding AI, and the mark of the beast. He emphasizes the importance of understanding biblical texts to avoid deception.Here are some resources that can help you in creating a devotional practice: Logos Bible Software- www.logos.com/sanbertoInstagram - www.instagram.com/sanbertoalejandro Donate- www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertohttps://www.amazon.com/shop/sanbertoalejandroDonate- https://www.buymeacoffee.com/alexportillo-Chapters: 00:00 The meaning of "Knowledge Shall Increase" in Daniel01:47 Are the Beast in Revelation Robots or Nations? 03:15 Did John mean "robot"? 04:22 The beast of Revelation 13 05:55 Did the Nephilim have six fingers and toes? 09:09 The Importance of Biblical Literacy08:14 People Are Crazy8:56 People Need to Read Their Bibles

Text: Luke 17:11–19In this teaching, Alex Portillo explores the story of the ten lepers from Luke 17, emphasizing the themes of healing, faith, and gratitude. He discusses the significance of the lepers' cry for mercy, their obedience to Jesus' command, and the importance of returning to express gratitude. The conversation delves into the psychological phenomenon of forgetting and how gratitude can lead to deeper healing and transformation in our lives. Ultimately, it calls for a conscious practice of thankfulness as a way to remain aware of God's mercy and goodness.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ugjvspsu8bx2qwm6jh8h1/Grateful-One.pdf?rlkey=6f355syze3g772kxs8e6kpz0t&st=0j0s9442&dl=0Chapters00:00 Introduction and Invitation to Healing00:41 The Story of the Ten Lepers05:28 Faith and Obedience in Healing10:45 Gratitude and Its Importance 15:57 The Psychological Phenomenon of Forgetting 21:08 The Deeper Healing of Gratitude

We say we love God. We say we love others. But what if the real test isn’t in what we say at all? In this teaching from 1 John 4:20, Alex explores a truth that can’t be faked—one that quietly exposes what’s real in our hearts.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y165xern6dornpw68j83n/Before-God-and-Men.pdf?rlkey=iyht1pen7bbjdwv040tz6mkbg&st=ppmztva8&dl=000:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast00:48 The Challenge of Loving Our Enemies02:57 Understanding Love and Humility05:59 The Connection Between Love and Humility08:54 The Role of Communion in Love and Humility09:51 Defining Humility and Its Importance

A quick message from me to you — thank you for listening.If the Bertonians have encouraged or challenged you, please tap 'subscribe,' rate the show, or share an episode.Your support truly matters.

This message was delivered at a memorial service. In this homily, Alex Portillo explores the themes of faith, perspective, and healing through the story of the blind man in John 9. He emphasizes how Jesus' actions reveal a deeper understanding of suffering and redemption, encouraging listeners to see their struggles through the light of faith. C.S. Lewis's insights on faith as a means of understanding reality are also discussed, culminating in a message of hope regarding death and resurrection.TakeawaysThe podcast is a personal teaching from Alex Portillo.The story of the blind man illustrates the importance of perspective.Jesus' healing is not just physical but also transformative for one's outlook on life.C.S. Lewis argues that faith provides clarity and understanding of reality.Faith helps us see our pain within a larger context of hope.Death is not the end but a transition to something greater.God's compassion is ever-present, even in our suffering.Healing is a process that requires faith and openness to light.The narrative of suffering can be reframed through faith.The message of love and assurance from God is central to healing.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/aaorzcdf5li2vrz12uubl/The-Light-by-Which-We-See.pdf?rlkey=fc9y4f01rb6kpznhfeoz91yl5&st=f3qka9w1&dl=0Chapters00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast00:50 The Story of the Blind Man: A Lesson in Perspective 06:46 C.S. Lewis: Faith as the Light of Understanding10:43 Death and Resurrection: A New Perspective Through Faith12:51 God's Compassion and Assurance of Healing

After the main interview ended, Alex Portillo and Kevin Grasso continued the conversation with some practical discussion about Bible translation. This bonus segment delves into how the phrase  “perfect love casts out fear” is misunderstood. We also look at the story of Jacob's ladder in the Masoretic text, Septuagint, and Targum. It’s an unscripted, behind-the-scenes look at the kind of translation insights that didn’t make it into the main episode.Try Biblingo Free for ten Days ⁠here⁠Find Biblingo on socials ⁠@Biblingoapp⁠Links: ⁠www. sanberto.com/links⁠Donate: ⁠www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

In this conversation, Alex Portillo and Dr. Kevin Grasso explore the complexities of Bible translations, the importance of understanding biblical languages, and the distinctions between translation and interpretation. They discuss the importance of idioms, the role of context, and how modern technology has made learning Hebrew and Greek more accessible. The dialogue emphasizes that while translations can convey meaning, engaging with the original languages can deepen one's understanding of scripture and enhance theological discussions.Try Biblingo Free for ten Days hereFind Biblingo on socials @BiblingoappLinks: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoChapters: 00:00 Introduction02:53 Understanding Biblical Languages05:50 The Importance of Language Mastery09:05Translation vs. Interpretation11:52The Role of Idioms in Translation14:48Analyzing Language Complexity18:03 The Nuances of Translation20:56 Bridging Language Gaps 28:47 The Nature of Translation and Interpretation30:48 Challenges in Translating Biblical Idioms37:42 The Importance of Learning Biblical Languages48:07Understanding the Value of Original Texts49:40 Biblingo: Making Biblical Languages Accessible

This is a bonus to the episode, Is Holloween Satan's Birthday Party? The crew discusses the complex relationship between fear, love, and understanding in the context of faith. They discuss the paradox of fearing God while also feeling safe in His presence, the dangers of misinformation, and the importance of navigating fear with a deeper understanding. The dialogue emphasizes the need for thoughtful reflection and the challenge of addressing misconceptions in conversations about faith and spirituality.Guests in this episode:Dr. Seth Pierce — Find him on Instagram and TikTok ⁠@professorpierce⁠. He also writes on Substack at Infodemonology and hosts the Beast and Bible Podcast.Nate Hellman — Connect with him on Instagram and TikTok ⁠@nate.hellman⁠. He co-hosts the The Imperfect Pastor Podcast.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto00:00 Fear and Its Role in Christian Messaging02:00 Understanding Fear: A Paradoxical Relationship with God03:23 The Nature of Fear: God vs. the Devil04:25 The Otherness of God and Its Implications06:27 The Danger of Simplistic Narratives08:01 The Importance of Critical Thinking12:09 Fear and Control: Human Instincts16:02 The Challenge of Responding to Misinformation

In this conversation, Alex Portillo, Nate Hellman, and Dr. Seth Pierce explore the complex relationship between Halloween and Christianity, delving into the historical context of the Satanic Panic, the evolution of Halloween traditions, and the cultural implications of fear and monsters in Christian narratives. They discuss personal experiences with spiritual warfare, the significance of testimonies, and provide insights on how Christians can engage with Halloween in a thoughtful and informed manner.Guests in this episode:Dr. Seth Pierce — Find him on Instagram and TikTok @professorpierce. He also writes on Substack at Infodemonology and hosts the Beast and Bible Podcast.Nate Hellman — Connect with him on Instagram and TikTok @nate.hellman. He co-hosts The Imperfect Pastor Podcast.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoChapters00:00 Introduction05:32 Is Halloween Satan's Birthday?14:12 The Role of Testimonies in Shaping Beliefs 23:11 Monsters, Identity, and the Christian Experience 25:49 The Origins of Halloween and Trick-or-Treating 31:22 Cultural Syncretism and Halloween's Evolution39:46 Are Jack O' Lanterns Demonic Portals?45:15 The Loaded Question Fallacy47:36 How Should Christians Engage with Halloween55:12 Fear and Its Role in Christian Messaging

What does it actually mean to walk in the light? In this episode, Alex unpacks a powerful passage from 1 John 1:5–10 and explores how living in the light goes beyond believing the right things or striving for righteousness. It’s about something far more vulnerable—and freeing.If you’ve ever wrestled with hidden struggles, questions about confession, or wondered how honesty shapes real Christian community, this teaching will challenge and encourage you.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/rqv59erkid32fkj3o1jrz/Walking-in-the-Light.pdf?rlkey=mlfkjpf8ywofpjy5dq81dupuf&st=qr3pkl4i&dl=0

We’ve all asked questions that don’t have easy answers. In times of loss, disappointment, or silence from God, we often wonder, “Why?” But sometimes, the most important truth isn’t found in explanations. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 10:29–30: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” This verse paints a picture of a God who pays attention to the smallest details of our lives and who offers comfort even in our darkest seasons.In this episode, Alex reflects on what it really means to experience God’s presence when life doesn’t make sense.NOTE: This homily was delivered as a word of encouragement for a memorial service. Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: N/A

In this message, Alex walks through one of the most striking passages in the book of Lamentations—a text written in the heart of grief and exile, yet turning toward surprising hope. From the careful structure of Hebrew poetry to the words that rise up in the middle of despair, the teaching explores what it means to remember God’s love and mercy in seasons of loss and uncertainty.Scripture Studied: Lamentations 3:21–24Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/sc03a0qojmi7vw4pbbgrm/New-Mercy.pdf?rlkey=lvjzkb03mdqxgpp1aqnqita0x&st=dekgrvgz&dl=0Chapter List00:00:00 Exploring the Skillful Acrostic Structure of Lamentations00:05:47 Remembering God's Steadfast Love and Tender Mercies00:09:48 God's Faithfulness is New Every Single Morning00:16:42 Thomas Chisholm Found God as His Only Portion00:22:52 Finding Hope When God Remembers Our Human Weakness00:27:46 How to Lament by Being Honest with God

What does it mean that Christ was “crucified in weakness yet lives by the power of God”? In this teaching on 2 Corinthians 13:3–5, Alex explores how our assumptions about strength and weakness shape our faith, our discipleship, and even the way we picture Jesus.ReflectionWhat is the image that I have of Jesus?How does this image shape my life?Does it match the Biblical portrayal of Jesus?What assumptions must I abandon?Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/824tmuc4pmneihqqzk8hm/Homunculus.pdf?rlkey=oni9lt9kwf6ok6eo8p14f501g&st=hsjyghfz&dl=0

We chase money, status, and security, but Scripture says God’s wealth looks nothing like ours. In Ephesians 1:7–8, Paul describes the “riches of His grace” lavished on us. What does that mean for how we live? In this teaching, we explore why God’s riches matter for your peace and freedom today, and what it looks like to live spiritually wealthy even when life feels poor.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/jc1qio4trax4d5a5zhwvv/How-to-Become-Filthy-Rich.pdf?rlkey=z5vu5cdllkdt4xp98ifw2elj6&st=rpaoit6r&dl=0

Matthew 25:31–46 places every nation before Christ’s throne and hinges on a single phrase: “the least of these.” In this teaching, we wrestle with who Jesus means—and why our answer exposes the shape of our discipleship toward the hungry, the stranger, the sick, and the imprisoned.Reflection Who in your life or community do you instinctively avoid or overlook—and what story have you told yourself to justify it? Imagine Jesus standing in front of you, disguised as the person you fear, judge, or ignore most. What would you say or do differently—and what’s stopping you nowWhen have you felt like a “stranger,” unseen or unwelcome? What would it mean to let that pain become a bridge instead of a wall?Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/2gpd09r088m0mvmiwhzey/The-Xenos.pdf?rlkey=gh3eimh8dodvq85ja90udz9ir&st=p0pce19u&dl=0

In Mark 6:45–52, Jesus walks on water in the middle of the night. But tucked inside this story is a surprising detail most of us skip right over—one that changes the way we see storms, faith, and the way Jesus meets us in our struggles.In this episode, Pastor Alex explores why Jesus doesn’t always calm the wind, what it means to row through resistance, and how God uses both storms and headwinds to strengthen us for what’s ahead. Reflection: What kind of storm are you in right now? Is it a deadly storm—where you feel like you’re drowning without a miracle? Or is it a windstorm—exhausting, uncomfortable, but survivable?.Where might Jesus be “within sight” in your storm? How might He be giving you space to grow, even if you’d rather He stepped in right now?If you knew He saw you and wasn’t far, what would you try? What might “rowing with Him watching” build in you that instant deliverance wouldn’t?How could your “windstorm” now prepare you to navigate future storms differently?Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

In this episode, we bring our study of Psalm 23 to a close by reflecting on its final verse: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” This line has comforted countless people through the ages, but what does it really mean for God’s goodness and mercy to “follow” us?Together, we’ll consider the imagery, the language, and the weight of these words. More than poetry, they reveal something essential about God’s character and about the kind of life we are invited to live in His care. As we close this series, we’ll ask how this psalm not only speaks to our present but also directs our future.ReflectionLord, where did Your goodness and mercy pursue me today?Where did I resist receiving what You were offering me?What did I leave behind me today—was it goodness and mercy, or hurt and harm?Who is walking in the wake of my life, and what are they finding there?As I face tomorrow, what do You want my life to leave behind?Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

In this episode, we dive into Psalm 23:5 and ask, “What does it mean for God to prepare a table for us in the presence of our enemies?” Together we’ll explore the imagery of God as host, the comfort it brings in times of conflict, and the hope it offers for daily life. If you’ve ever wondered how this verse speaks into your struggles and challenges, this teaching will give you a fresh perspective and encouragement.ReflectionLord, where did you spread a table for me today?Where did I resist what you offered?Who are you inviting me to welcome to my table?As I face tomorrow, what enemies must I trust you to feed me in front of?Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate-: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

This is a teaching on Psalm 23:3. We explore the meaning of "he refreshes my soul."ReflectionWhere did I notice God simply with me, quietly present in my ordinary moments? How did I sense God leading me—toward rest, through challenge, or back to what is good?Looking back, where can I see God “returning” me when my heart or mind wandered?Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate-: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto

What do you treasure most, and how is it shaping your heart? In this Matthew 5–6 teaching, we explore the concept of reward and treasure. Discover why the poor in spirit are truly rich, how hidden acts of faith become wages of the heart, and why no one will enter heaven whose heart isn’t already there first.Reflection Where is my treasure today? What has been training my heart lately? Which master am I serving right now? Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto