The Dwelling Deeper Podcast

In John 17, we are given a sacred glimpse into the prayer life of Jesus as He approaches the cross. And what we find is not merely a prayer for relief, comfort, or escape, but a prayer that the glory of God would be seen in His suffering, in His people, and ultimately in eternity. In this sermon, we consider what it means to pray with the desires of Christ. Our prayers often focus on the removal of sickness, conflict, burdens, and pain, and there is a biblical place for bringing those things to God. But Jesus teaches us to pray for something deeper: that God would glorify His name in all things. Through John 17, we see Christ pray for His own glorification, for the sanctification and unity of His people, and for the day when His people will behold His eternal glory face to face. Our highest desire should be the glory of God. And if that becomes the controlling desire of our hearts, it will change the way we suffer, the way we pray, the way we live, and the way we long for eternity.

Jesus told His disciples plainly that sorrow, suffering, and tribulation would come, but He did not leave them without hope. In John 16, Christ gives His people real reasons for peace: the presence of the Spirit, the promise of His return, access to the Father, and grace for our weakness. This sermon considers how believers can live with joy and confidence in a broken world because Jesus has overcome the world.

In a world that celebrates comfort, acceptance, and self-expression, Jesus gives His followers a very different expectation: “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.” (John 15:18) In this message from John 15:18–16:4, we explore why opposition to the Christian life should not surprise us—and why it should not discourage us. Jesus does not warn His disciples about persecution to frighten them, but to prepare them. He explains the reason the world rejects Him, the reason it rejects His people, and the promise of the Holy Spirit’s presence for those who remain faithful. This sermon helps us understand: • what Scripture means by “the world” • why faithful Christians experience opposition • how the Spirit strengthens believers in hostile environments • and how suffering for Christ becomes a doorway to deeper fellowship with Him Whether opposition looks like social pressure, lost relationships, or something more serious, Jesus has already prepared His people to stand. And He has not sent us into this world alone. Follow along in John 15:18–16:4 as we learn how to live with hope and confidence in a world that does not understand the gospel.

True faith comes at a cost, but Jesus promises that the reward is worth the loss. Join Pastor Justin as he shares Jesus' call to take up our crosses and follow Him.

Many people saw Jesus after His resurrection from the tomb, but John's final encounter with Him in Revelation 1 is unique. Join Pastor Justin as he unpacks this mysterious text and explains the impact that the resurrection of Jesus has for us each day.

When we abide in Christ, it changes everything about our relationships. No longer do we love like the world, but through the example that Jesus Christ gave. Join Pastor Justin as he expounds on Jesus' words in John 15:12-17.

Fruitfulness is an essential part of the Christian life that is possible through Christ. Listen as Pastor Justin presents the challenge and comfort found in living a spiritually fruitful life.

As we live in the physical absence of Christ, we can rejoice in the gift of His Spirit, which provides us with everything we need to live for the glory of God. Join Pastor Justin as he presents the realities of living in the presence of the Spirit.

Join Pastor Justin as he returns to the Gospel of John and considers Christ's instruction to keep His commandments.

Join Pastor Justin for the conclusion of the series, "How To Be A Good Steward". This sermon is from 1 Timothy 6 and offers three ways someone can steward their possessions for the glory and enjoyment of God.

What you think about and how you think about it determines who you are. Join Pastor Justin as he gives three practical steps to guide you in stewarding your thought life for the glory of God.

Join Pastor Justin in a very needed discussion about the importance of our bodies. We pray you'll be challenged and comforted by the reality that God cares for your body and is redeeming it through Christ day by day.

Join us as Pastor Justin Oakes delivers a sermon on Ephesians 5:15-21. We pray this episode will challenge you and bless you as you grow deeper in your relationship with Christ.