Bread of Life Church of Fresno

Make disciples, not converts—this episode reframes the Great Commission as Jesus intended: not just decisions, but lifelong discipleship that pushes back darkness and multiplies through everyday relationships. We’ll walk through the rhythm of presence → peace → power → purpose, why obedience is the true measure of discipleship, and simple steps you can take this week to start making reproducible disciples right where you live.

You can walk into a room and feel it immediately—warmth or coldness, welcome or distance. In this episode, we talk about the Miracle of Proximity and why God designed the local church to be the place where people experience the love of God through His people.Jesus said the world would recognize His disciples not by preaching, gifting, or production—but by love. And that kind of love isn’t sentimental or performative. It’s covenant, and it requires closeness. Proximity creates pressure—but that pressure doesn’t have to push us apart. God uses it to expose what’s still unlike Christ in us, soften hearts of stone, and grow a culture of real, visible, Spirit-empowered love.If you’ve been tempted toward isolation, offense, or “one foot in, one foot out” Christianity, this episode is an invitation back into the sheepfold—into covenant community—where God heals, shapes, and stations His people for mission.Key Scriptures (ESV): John 13:34–35, Jeremiah 17:9, Ezekiel 36:26–27, Romans 5:5, Galatians 6:2, Hebrews 10:24–25, John 10:11, Ephesians 3:10Takeaway: Love doesn’t happen by accident in exile. It has to be fought for—together.

Sharing an encouraging and challenging word this week is Jordan Yarbrough. Hear about a revelation God gave him while studying the book of Nehemiah and our discussion on how it is relevant to the church today and until the end of time. Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Sheldon Bacchus serves in many capacities at our church and this week he is sharing why! He discusses how for him, serving went from something he did because he was asked to, to something he wants to do to contribute to the growing family of God that people desperately need. Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Kyle Beeler has a conversation with his wife, Nicole, where he teaches about the Suffering Servant figure in Scripture (hint: it’s Jesus), shares why he has been interested in this figure, and how he finds hope in the life, death, and victory of Christ. Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

This week, hear about how Proverbs 3:5-6 has marked Harold Forbis’s life as he has acknowledged the Lord in every aspect of life and then seen either real-time or in retrospect how God has made his paths straight. Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Gain valuable insights on receiving God's gift of salvation as hosts Jordan Yarbrough and Sergio Ramos discuss the role of grace in our lives. We explore how true acceptance of salvation requires an open heart transformed by the Holy Spirit. • How understanding grace redefines our relationship with God • Importance of being positioned to receive the gift of salvation • The transformative role of the Holy Spirit in our daily walk with Christ Thanks for joining us today. We hope this session will help you love God and people more.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Here to share his insight into the Scriptures is Malik Burdan. This episode, he focuses on the different words used in the biblical languages that are translated as “love” for us in our English bibles, and why learning about this was meaningful for him. Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

This week, Humberto Bejarano joins the podcast to share a powerful testimony of a time in life where he had faith for a healing miracle and received it! He also shares about the key attitude of gratitude that strengthened his relationship with God. Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Joining us this week is Jason Guenther! He is a leader in the church in various capacities and today he shares with us something he doesn’t often get to share - his testimony of being found by God after going through a time of drifting away from his true purpose and call in lifeSupport the showFind more content at bolcf.org

What if the antidote to our anxiety-riddled world isn't found in self-care techniques or better coping mechanisms, but in rediscovering who we were truly created to be? This message cuts through the noise of a chaotic culture to remind us of a fundamental truth: we were designed for love, not hate or anxiety.Drawing from 1 John 4:13-16, we explore how truly abiding in God's presence transforms everything about our lives. The playing field of love is completely level – whether you're naturally gifted at relationships or struggle with connecting, God's design for humanity transcends personality types and spiritual giftedness. The primary evidence of God's Spirit working in our lives isn't found in dramatic spiritual manifestations but in supernatural love that persists even when relationships get messy.For those wrestling with uncertainty about their relationship with God, this message offers powerful reassurance. Throughout 1 John, the apostle repeatedly emphasizes "this is how we know" – providing clear anchors for our faith in a world that constantly questions truth. When we confess Jesus as Lord and experience His transforming love, we can walk with unshakable confidence that we belong to Him.The journey from anxiety to peace doesn't come through being told "don't worry" but through experiencing the living presence of a God who is love. As we abide in Him and He abides in us, we find ourselves becoming carriers of the very love that has transformed us – not out of guilt or obligation, but from the overflow of genuine relationship with Jesus.Ready to move beyond anxiety into the freedom of abiding love? This message offers practical pathways to experiencing God's presence in a way that changes everything about how you navigate relationships, hardships, and your daily walk with Jesus.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

The search for authentic love has consumed humanity throughout history—filling our songs, movies, and stories with attempts to capture its essence. Yet despite these efforts, most people continue pursuing a broken version of love that leaves them unfulfilled.In this profound exploration of 1 John 4:7-12, we uncover the revolutionary truth that genuine love doesn't originate within human capacity but flows from the divine realm. This transformative message challenges our fundamental understanding of love's source and purpose—revealing that we can only access authentic love when we're connected to its divine origin.The powerful revelation at the heart of this message is simple yet profound: you were not born to hate. When we embrace God's love, we become more authentically human, reclaiming the divine image we were created to embody. Conversely, when we choose bitterness, anger, and hatred, we become something less than human—moving further from our created purpose.What makes this teaching particularly transformative is its practical application. When we experience the "mercy seat" of God's forgiveness in our own lives, we naturally extend that same grace to others. No longer viewing people through the lens of their failures, we see them through the perspective of divine potential. This creates communities where love becomes visible not through mystical experiences but through consistent acts of forgiveness, patience, and genuine care.The ultimate evidence that we've been transformed isn't found in supernatural displays or religious performance, but in our capacity to love authentically. When we truly love one another, we demonstrate that hell no longer rules our hearts—we've been liberated from darkness into light.Ready to experience a love that heals your broken humanity and transforms your relationships? Listen now and discover how heaven's love can invade your earthly existence.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Announcing Bread of Life Daily! We aim to deepen community engagement at Bread of Life, and this episode explores the importance of connecting with church members and sharing uplifting stories.- Introduction to the Bread of Life Daily podcast - Vision to highlight testimonies and teachings - Call to action for involvement and story-sharing For more about Bread of Life, Church of Fresno, look us up at bolcf.org and reach out or, better yet, come join us. We hope you have a blessed day. Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

In the last of our series on Pursuit, Doug explores the transformative role of prayer in a believer's life. He unpacks stories from scripture while exploring practical ways to engage in meaningful communication with God daily. Topics include the importance of fellowship, Jesus's cleansing of the temple, and nurturing our personal prayer lives.• Understanding the importance of continual prayer • Insights into community and fellowship in building prayer practices • The significance of Jesus’s actions in the temple • The need for a relational approach to God through His word • Exploring everyday dependence on God through prayer • Practical tips for cultivating a robust prayer life • Encouraging continual devotion to prayer in personal practicesSupport the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Listen as Doug presents a heartfelt exploration of the early church's model of community, reflecting on the importance of hospitality and meaningful relationships. Emphasizing that God is building a family, not just a congregation, we dive into how sharing meals can nourish faith and connection.• Discussion of Acts 2 and the birth of the church • Importance of devotion and shared living among believers • The concept of family and the heart of God • The difference between secular and biblical hospitality • Addressing the curse of Cain and its implications for community • Strategies to practice hospitality in everyday life • Understanding God's actions versus His ways • Emphasizing the theology of eating as a means of connection • The impact of welcoming others and building relationships Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Doug highlights the significance of biblical fellowship as an essential part of the Christian life. He dives deep into the meaning of koinonia, highlighting its impact on spiritual growth and community life.- Definition and importance of fellowship based on biblical teachings- Exploration of Acts 2:42 and its implications for today’s church- Reasons why active participation in fellowship beautifies the Christian walk- Practical ways to embrace a lifestyle of fellowship, including small groups and hospitality- Real-life examples of fellowship in action and their transformative powerIf you want to deepen your relationships and embrace true community, don’t miss this message!Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Doug introduces the vital role of God's Word in our spiritual journey and underscores the importance of pursuing a deeper understanding of scripture. We examine what it means to truly follow Jesus and the transformative power of applying His teachings in everyday life.• Importance of pursuing God’s Word for spiritual growth • Understanding the Great Commission’s emphasis on teaching • The role of scripture in resisting temptation • Insights into biblical literacy and cultural relevance • Practical steps to engage with the Bible in daily living • The connection between faith and actionable discipleship Don't forget to check out bolcf.org for more resources on studying the Word of God!Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Join Tom as he outlines our vision for 2025, focusing on the need for fresh encounters with God and a culture of pursuit. We explore essential themes such as the importance of pursuing God, and the four key areas of focus that will guide our community in the coming years. - Introduction of the vision for 2025 - Importance of community and believers in pursuit together - Four key focuses for 2025: Word, People, Excellence, Prayer - Practical steps for engaging in this pursuit Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Self-care is a poor substitute for peace and rest the Sabbath brings.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Don't arrive in heaven without a legacy that will meet you there. Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Christians are authorized and commissioned to carry out the Great Commission, which involves sharing the gospel and making disciples. Each member of the church is a vital part of the body, and everyone has a role in fulfilling God's mandate collectively. Let us actively seek God's will and say yes to opportunities to serve and support one another in their faith journey.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Laying a solid foundation of faith in the next generation begins as we build a life centered on God's will. Salvation brings a commission to spread the gospel's message, and every believer is called to share that message and actively impact communities. True worship involves surrendering personal desires for God's mission and seeking the salvation of others. Ultimately, we are commissioned to be vessels of God's glory, transforming our world through obedience and love for all people.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

The transformative nature of the kingdom of God brings salvation, not merely a ticket to heaven, but an invitation to live under God's authority and rule in this life.  Entering the kingdom means gaining the power to reflect God’s love and authority in our lives and the world around us, which enables believers to become agents of transformation.  Surrender doubts and embrace the power of new birth, which, by faith, gives everything necessary for a powerful life in the kingdom.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

In the final message of this series Pastor Daniel Dunn's sermon delves into the parable of the talents, emphasizing the significance of stewarding gifts and talents from God. He stresses that God values faithfulness and productivity over quantity, urging the congregation to utilize their gifts for His glory. The sermon underscores the importance of not comparing one's gifts to others and the need for a personal relationship with Jesus for salvation. Overall, the message encourages faithful stewardship of God's gifts and the urgency of living accountably in anticipation of His return.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

In Pastor Harold's sermon "Workers in a Vineyard" from "The Kingdom is Like" series, he delves into the parable of laborers in the vineyard, teaching that eternal life is granted by God's grace alone. Expanding on previous sermons, he explains that parables reveal truths to those receptive to God's message. Through examples like the laborers, Pastor Harold emphasizes God's sovereignty in salvation and the necessity for believers to actively labor and extend grace to others. The sermon encourages introspection, repentance, and a commitment to be fruitful laborers in God's kingdom.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Pastor Jason Guenther discusses the church's physical expansion as a reflection of God's work in their hearts. He explains the purpose of Jesus' parables, revealing the Kingdom to those seeking and in relationship with Christ. Pastor Guenther explores the mustard seed and leaven parables, highlighting the growth and transformation of the Kingdom within individuals. He emphasizes the priceless value of the Kingdom, urging the congregation to prioritize it above all else and embrace God's transformative power.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

In Pastor Jason's sermon "Understanding Parables," he explores the parables of the sower and the tares, emphasizing the value of hearing and understanding God's messages. The parable of the sower illustrates various responses to God's word, highlighting the significance of cultivating a fruitful relationship with God. Pastor Jason warns against relying solely on knowledge and stresses the importance of genuine faith and humility. Through the parable of the tares, he emphasizes the presence of evil and the need for believers to bear fruit and shine in God's kingdom.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Pastor Tom Bedford's sermon, "The Simplicity of Devotion to Christ," focuses on maintaining a pure devotion to Jesus amidst distractions and deceptions in the world. He shares his personal journey to faith and stresses the importance of solely focusing on Jesus without being led astray. Pastor Tom discusses the challenges within Christianity of staying devoted to Jesus and avoiding false teachings and distractions. He connects the biblical story of Adam and Eve to present-day challenges in the church and emphasizes the need to safeguard against distractions to maintain a genuine and pure devotion to Christ.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Pastor Tom Bedford's sermon emphasizes creating a family culture rooted in the kingdom of God, where His rulership reigns supreme. He stresses the importance of transitioning from the worldly kingdom to God's kingdom through being born again. The sermon highlights the benefits of living in God's kingdom, raising children on a mission for God, and experiencing the power of God's presence. Pastor Bedford encourages families to cultivate relationships within the church to share in the joy and power of serving God together in a wind-driven home.What does it mean to create a family culture based on the kingdom of God?How can parents include their children in a wind-driven life and the adventure of serving God?Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

TL;DR: Pastor Tom Bedford's sermon emphasizes raising children in a family culture reflecting God's kingdom, living out Christ's message through love. He discusses biblical views on marriage, parenting, and the challenges families face in today's society. Bedford stresses parents' role in guiding children, church's supportive role, and the need for a community of faith. Main points include living Christ's message, biblical family framework, parenting challenges, and church support in shaping family culture.How can the church best support families, without overreaching its authority?How can we apply the sacrificial, patient, and selfless love of God in our family relationships?Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

In the sermon "Family Culture | Marriage 101," Pastor Daniel Dunn talks about the biblical foundation of family as a creation concept by God. He emphasizes that marriage and family should reflect God's nature and the importance of not being rebellious. Pastor Dunn encourages intentional creation of a family culture focused on God, prioritizing the spouse, and the need for unity and fidelity in marriage. The sermon concludes with a reminder that with God's grace, redemption and healing are possible in marriages, emphasizing the importance of trusting God's guidance.What does it mean for a family to reflect God's nature and kingdom?Why is it important to leave and cleave in a marriage? What does this look like practically?Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

In the sermon "True Power | Galatians" by Pastor Tom, the focus is on the book of Galatians, addressing the dangers of legalism and emphasizing reliance on the Holy Spirit. Paul's message highlights that salvation is through faith in Jesus, not through adherence to rituals or laws. Believers are urged to walk by the Spirit, exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit such as love, joy, and self-control. True power lies in a transformed heart by God's grace, not in religious formalities, leading to a life pleasing to God.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

In his sermon on true righteousness from the book of Galatians, Pastor Daniel Dunn discusses the significance of faith over adherence to the law. He illustrates this through the story of Abraham, emphasizing that righteousness comes from believing in Jesus Christ. Pastor Dunn warns against being misled by false teachings and encourages living a life that reflects one's identity in Christ. Overall, the sermon highlights that true righteousness is achieved through faith in Jesus and calls the congregation to walk in the Spirit and be a blessing to others.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Pastor Tom Bedford's sermon on Galatians emphasizes staying true to the Gospel, warning against perverting it and relying solely on faith in Jesus Christ. He cautions against dead religion, manipulation with money in ministries, involvement in socio-political movements, and hyper-spiritualism. Pastor Bedford uses specific Bible verses to support his points and encourages listeners to discern truth amid various media platforms. The sermon concludes with a prayer for believers to be filled with the Holy Spirit and live out the Gospel truth daily.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

tl;dr: Pastor Bedford urges choosing joy as a command from God, emphasizing its importance using Philippians. He focuses on unity, urging harmony among believers and shifting focus to positive things. Joy is portrayed as a decision of faith, leading to peace and transformation in mindset. The church is encouraged to love one another, resolve conflicts, and carry the gospel with unity and gratitude.How does choosing joy as a decision of faith differ from considering it just a feeling or fleeting emotion?How can we embrace the struggle of the gospel and maintain unity within the church?How does living a life of gratitude and gentleness impact the way we share the gospel with others?Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Pastor Daniel Dunn's sermon on joy and confidence in Christ from Philippians emphasizes the importance of being transformed by God's word and finding security in Jesus rather than in ourselves. He discusses the cultural context of Philippi as a Roman colony and draws parallels to believers being a colony of heaven. The sermon addresses false teachings infiltrating the church and emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ for salvation. Pastor Daniel encourages the congregation to imitate mature believers, press on in their pursuit of knowing Christ, and reflect the culture of heaven in their lives.How can we find true joy and confidence in Christ?What does it mean to live as a colony of heaven and reflect the culture of God's kingdom?How can we discern false teachings and stay focused on the sufficiency of Christ for our salvation?Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Pastor Bedford's sermon "Got Joy? Living Like Christ" explores the themes of the fall of humanity, desire for power, unity and love within the church, Christ's humility, and letting go of rivalry and ambition to experience revival. He highlights the consequences of Adam and Eve's disobedience, emphasizing the need for salvation and rebirth to restore fellowship with God. Drawing parallels to the church in Philippi, he stresses the importance of unity and selflessness, following Jesus' example of humility. The sermon challenges listeners to prioritize love and humility in relationships to witness God's power and presence.How did Jesus demonstrate true humility, and how can we follow His example?What do you think it means to prioritize the interests of others over our own?Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Pastor Jason Guenther's sermon "Got Joy? Living In Christ" delves into the book of Philippians, focusing on the transformed life and perspective of apostle Paul, who found joy amidst adversity. Despite being under house arrest in Rome, chained to Roman soldiers, Paul wrote the letter to the Philippians with joy and gratitude, seeing his circumstances as an opportunity to spread the gospel. The sermon stresses the importance of preaching Christ, standing firm in faith, and viewing suffering as a path to spiritual growth and eternal rewards. Believers are encouraged to maintain an eternal perspective, spread the gospel, stand united in faith, and embrace suffering as a means of glorifying God.How does Paul's perspective on suffering differ from the world's view, and why is it important to consider this in our own lives?Why is unity among believers and standing firm in faith critical, and how can we actively contribute to this within our church?How can we experience joy and fulfillment in our faith, even amidst difficult circumstances, and maintain trust in God's plan for our lives?How can we effectively share the gospel with others, even when faced with resistance or opposition, and support one another in this effort?Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

TL;DR: Pastor Dunn's sermon on joy in Philippians emphasizes finding true joy in knowing Jesus, not happiness. He explores the themes of knowing Jesus, obedience, and serving others, drawing from Paul's letter to the Philippians. Dunn highlights the importance of balancing sacrifice and obedience in a way that reflects a deep relationship with God. He encourages the congregation to embrace their identity as servants in Christ and seek joy through genuine obedience to God's will.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Salvation is the love of God - love made salvation possible. Love also made the ability to know the truth possible. God’s truth defines our reality.Love Initiated Initiated Truth - John 1:6-18 Love and truth are inseparable. God’s love binds us to the truth. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7Because the Love of God is rooted in God’s truth, we are separated from the world.- The world does not know God’s love. Because God’s love is rooted in truth and the whole world is in darkness, God’s love separates us from the world.- This means that whatever is considered to be live in the world, if God’s love is not a part of it, it’s rooted in darkness no matter how good it sounds. For example, God’s love is incompatible with hating people.  1 John 2:15-16Do Not Love the World -  2 Thessalonians 2:7-12, Matthew 24:4-14 Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

God Governs the Universe by Love as the highest order of God’s attributes, and He imparts it to us.Loving God, Loving People, Serving Both.Love has to create the authenticity of what makes this church.John 13:35: “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”Love is the highest. 1 Cor. 13:8-13Love is the highest order of gifts and governs everything God does and who God is to us.Every motivation that is in God and everything that emanates from God is generated by pure love.God is love. 1 John 4:7-21God is Love. This definition trumps all other definitions. The declaration of this truth is paramount in the whole world.God the Father is the ultimate lover of man and is the one who offers love.He sent his son. This is the most generous and loving act ever demonstrated in the universe's history.God acts first - Ephesians 2:8-9God is Love; Love is not Love. More 1 John 4:7-21Sin is the opposite of love. Everything that comes from God is entirely enacted by and from his passion. It never seeks to hurt or wound. Never. On the other hand, sin is always selfish and steals from others, takes from them, and hurts them.The Father Loves (John 3:16, Ephesians 2:4-). Jesus Loves (Galatians 2:20), and the Holy Spirit carries Love (Romans 5:1-5)Connor Book.Nothing Can Separate Us. Romans 8:31-39Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

63,000,000 - that is more than the combined population of every US state that touches the Pacific Ocean and just under the people of every state west of the Rockie Mountains. It is also a conservative estimate of the number of legalized abortions since the Roe vs. Wade ruling in 1973. What does the Bible say about life, and how are nations held to account for how they value it?Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

What is evil, and from where does it come? Tragedies like the one in Uvalde, Texas, force us to face harsh realities and ask hard questions. There is comfort and clarity in God’s word regarding the nature and source of evil.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

As we conclude our Spiritual Warfare series, we look at the armor and weapons God has provided to his people to make war. Listen in as we learn to live in full armor in everyday life.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

We’ve seen the schemes the enemy uses against us. Now we look at how we fight – what are our battle strategies? In Part 1, we learn that, although we are still in the battle, the outcome has been decided, the victory won in Christ.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

The Apostle Paul said that satan wages war against us with “schemes” and exhorts us to prepare to stand against them. Follow along as we look at six of these schemes, or strategies, that we will encounter in spiritual warfare.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

In Part 1 of this lesson, we learned that we are fighting a spiritual battle to live in God's presence and for God's glory to come from heaven to earth. Listen in as we see that we're also fighting for the salvation of souls.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

Every war is fought with an end goal in mind. As Christians, we must understand why we are waging a spiritual battle. Otherwise, we will not engage in the fight. Listen along as we examine what we, as believers, are fighting for.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

In our series on Spiritual Warfare teaching, we look at what The Bible says about an actual enemy. While we often struggle in human relationships, The Bible is clear that people are not our enemy. Instead, our enemies are non-human spiritual entities in satan and the demonic hoard.  Listen along as we discover who the enemy is and how to overcome him.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org

The Bible teaches that the spiritual world is real. That means to those who follow Jesus that they become aware of spiritual things through being born again. The Bible also teaches that there is a terrible battle being waged spiritually against the child of God and that we are in a real spiritual war. Listen along as we learn how to face that war and prevail through faith in God.Support the showFind more content at bolcf.org