You're Entitled to Our Opinion

There's an old saying, "If it weren't for your mom, you wouldn't be here!"Well, that's true in many ways and this podcast is dedicated to honoring all mothers here and around the world. There is a lot of influence on a child's life through the interaction between mother and child, and it's a vital one.Both Jay and Tom share stories of the moms in their lives and the great impact these women had on their development as a person as well as their walk with the Lord.They pay special tribute to mothers who have had to take on the role of both parents in raising their children and how important the Body of Christ is to coming along side them in their mission.The value of motherhood can't be overstated. With the birth rate dropping to below 1.6 children per mother, our nation is looking at some dire consequences as women are either putting off child-rearing until later in life or are choosing not to be a mom at all.Happy Mother's Day! Moms, you WOW us!

B.I.B.L.E. - Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.Some people become confused when looking at all the translations and paraphrases: KJV, ESV, NIV, The Message, the Jerusalem Bible, the Living Bible, etc.. It can be a little daunting.The most important thing to know about the Bible is that it is God's Word. The God Who created time, space, and matter, wanted to communicate with us Who He is, how much He loves us, and His plan for our lives. Plus, we have history, science, and geography in it so we have a perspective of His working with humanity since the beginning of time. The more we read His story, the more intimate we become with Him.We don't have to be Bible scholars to glean God's truth from His Word. It does take time and focus, but if we do, the Holy Spirit will do exactly what Jesus said He would do, lead us into all truth.Some people love to argue about the Bible. That's not its purpose...to divide. The Holy Spirit ordered the 40+ authors over 1600 years to pen the words that brings us into a greater knowledge of the One who loves us most.As Jay loves to say, and Tom heartily agrees:Get into the Word and let the Word get in you!

Judas Iscariot - The man many people love to hate.But have we really taken the time to understand him? Jesus picked him out of a crowd to be one of his disciples and elevated him to the position of group treasurer. Sounds like he wasn't the greasy, snakey, sniveling money grabber so often portrayed in movies and from pulpits. Tom portrayed Judas Iscariot in the epic musical, "The Promise," in Branson, Missouri in over 2,000 shows. When he was chosen for the role, he asked God to help him understand and portray Judas as accurately as possible. And in doing so, bring about revelation that would touch lives and reveal hearts. We want to think we're like Peter, failing Jesus and repenting. But many of us are like Judas, doing our will in God's name. And unless we repent of that, instead of just being remorseful and hoping God will overlook it, we will have the same outcome as Judas - maybe not being hung on a tree but definitely not being with Christ for eternity.Following along as we paint a more accurate picture, from scripture, of the man who tried to "make it all happen."

Skeptics will be skeptics. And it's a bit understandable when you walk through the Bible and encounter these incredible events that happen that defy logic.A world-wide flood, donkey speaking, seas and rivers part, ax heads float, hungry lions lose their appetite, flames burn ropes but not skin, quail and manna to feed millions, dead being raised, and a four to six inch thick curtain rips from the top to the bottom: A bit difficult to imagine.Yeah, there's a lot of head scratching about Biblical occurrences until you put it all in the perspective that the God of time, space, and matter can do anything He chooses. And especially when He wants to reveal Himself. These aren't fairy tales or historical fiction but instances where the Father works within His creation in His love and power. We can accept the unexplainable when it comes to trusting Him. If He put the stars in their places and knows the number of hairs on your head, we can rely on His Word.

Milk. We all start out drinking it. Babies need this great nutrition to eventually grow into mature, healthy adults. However, we can't live on just milk; physically or spiritually. Otherwise we just end up as "fat babies."In this podcast, we break down four walks of spiritual life that contradict being a true follower of Jesus Christ. It really does go "Beyond Belief." And it's time we take spiritual inventory to see of any of the following characterize our spiritual lives.Convenient, Casual, Carnal, and Compromised. These are four words that should never describe our walk with the Lord. WNow, we're not here to point fingers or put people's faith under a microscope. But we do want to point out pitfalls of faithlessness that the Holy Spirit can convict us of and lead us into truth.

Resurrection Sunday is an incredible celebration day for believers. It's even more significant than the Incarnation...and that's a big deal.In this podcast, we look at some of the things people might not consider with just a cursory glimpse at the Biblical account of our Savior's rising from teh dead. - Were the soldiers at the tomb Roman or Jews? - Why didn't Jesus die in the horrendous process of His beatings, trials, and crucifixion?- How do we know Jesus didn't just "swoon" and walk out of the tomb? Did He really and truly die?- Just how much evidence do we have of the resurrection?It's a time of both celebration and humility that Jesus Christ would become sin for us so that we can be reconciled to the Father. This was God's plan all along and, when the time was exactly right, He sent His Son to fulfill everything that was prophesied about Him throughout the Old Testament.Guard at a cemetery? No problem...right?

One of the best ways to help people catch your point is to use an illustration with which they can identify. - Jesus used parables...often.- Jan and Tom have used these stories to bring a truth to life throughout their ministries. These are some of Jay and Tom's favorites. They share these to inspire as well as equip you with an illustration that just might help when you're sharing with someone a truth.From canoe trips to tennis shoes, you'll see what they're saying. You might say "wow" or "Wow!" as they share stories, some illustrations and some true accounts, that just might make your day.

"If your hair's too long, there's sin in your heart!" - by Billy StringsLegalism isn't a new thing. Jesus had to deal with it when confronting the Pharisees of His day. Unfortunately, we have some people who have learned well from them, sticking to the letter of the Law. Instead of being present-day Pharisees, we can overcome that bad spirit with the Word, where we find the antidote.People judge the outward appearance, both inside and outside the Body of Christ. Unfortunately, that's the nature of worldly people. Christ followers play by a different "rule book" Instead of "excessive emphasizing of rules and regulations and strict literal adherence to them," we hold to two very vital Godly virtues:Love and grace.

Knowledge is a good thing. "Elementary," as the detective Holmes says.However, it can be used in a bad way, especially when it comes to our testimony to the world. Sometimes we come across as "holier than thou." Like Paul states in 1 Corinthians 8:1, "Knowledge puffs up while love builds up. If you're reading the Word at all, from Genesis to Revelation, we're called to be holy. It doesn't take "brilliant deduction" to realize that as followers of Jesus, we can't just live like we did before salvation.It's called, to use a theological term, "being sanctified." It's the day to day allowing the Holy Spirit to purify us and grow us in our "being Jesus with skin on." Now, when those who aren't followers of Christ see us, even if we're walking in His love, they can easily be offended and accuse us of thinking we're better than they are. However, if we are living our lives in such a way that they "see our good works and glorify the Father in heaven," then their accusation is an indication they are being drawn by the Holy Spirit and feel conviction.So, how do we live holy and not "holier than thou?" Let's find out.

Right now, there are many people who are anxious about the world situation. The Middle East is the focus of the world's attention as the country of Iran is being militarily confronted. As followers of Jesus Christ, we are told that in the last days, there would be wars and violence. One term used is "perilous times." Lives are definitely in peril as the situation explodes.In Scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments, we are told "do not fear" in the Word, what should our response be? Who is in control of this situation? Is this the "End Times" scripture talks about so clearly, and yet, sometimes a bit veiled?So what do we do? Since history is "His story," let's consider our Biblical response to the present situation.

Last week we dealt with the concept of depression: Where it comes from and the Biblical view of how to more than cope with it. This week we dig deeper into how the Bible speaks to how we more than just "meditate" or silence ourselves and the voices we often fight. Though changing our thought life (our ruminator) is vital to defeating the oppressive forces, we have been given Biblical truths to both defeat the voices and fill the silence. Philippians 4:8 and Lamentations 3:21-33 give us tremendous insight to how the Holy Spirit works to transform our minds into thinking God-thoughts. Biblical meditation isn't an emptying of our minds but filling them with His truth. We overcome the enemy by the blood of the Lamb and by our testimony. We don't fight feelings, we identify them, and then make them align with the Word of God. Faith overcomes fear. Truth overcomes the lie.

Depression is not from our Father. However, like many "big names" in the Bible, many of us have experienced the deep pit depression brings. But not everyone goes through the same experience. So, there's no "easy fix-all" when it comes to depression.There are many causes of depression and, though we don't purport ourselves to be licensed psychologists, we have been equipped to bring a Godly perspective that can help in the process of being delivered from this pit.Whether the cause of a person's depression is caused by a chemical imbalance, a personal failure, or any of the other seven other causes we've discovered over our combined decades of ministry, there is no need to live in the pit: God's Word gives us the insight to be an overcomer.This isn't a "12 Easy Steps to Defeat Depression" podcast. But we are going to start with one of the most basic fundamentals of overcoming depression as well as some Biblical truths that most often are not discovered on a psychologist's couch. This is part one of a two-part podcast that can shed Godly light on a very serious subject.

Is Valentine's Day for the birds?According to Geoffrey Chaucer in his 1375 poem "Parliament of Fowls," the romantic celebration is. "For this was sent on Saint Valentine's day/When every fowl cometh there to choose his mate," expresses his perspective.But there's quite a history about who Valentine was and how Valentine's Day slowly pushed out the Lupercalia Festival of the Romans. History buffs will enjoy this insight.Is Valentine's Day only for couples? Is this "love day" exclusive?Author C.S. Lewis wrote a book titled, "Four Loves," which expands our understanding of the Biblical usage of the words, (yes, words - plural) "love."In spite of the 145 million Valentine's Day greeting cards being mailed at this time, there's one "love letter" that expresses how much the Father loves us and how we should love each other.We are not only encouraged but commanded to love each other. John 15:13 is one of the most powerful verses that expresses this. Jesus told us that no one has a greater love than the one who will lay down his life for a friend. Then He did that very thing. Happy Valentine's Day to all of you from the two of us.

Families. Some are close knit while others...well, let's say they're a bit raveled. And some just plain go to feuding.There is a 4,000 year old "family feud" that began with Patriarch Abraham's sons and it continues to this day. Hagar's son, Ishmael, and Sarah's son, Isaac, each received a blessing from God and the competition has ebbed and flowed over the millennia to this day.However, there's been something miraculous happening, and not just lately but increasingly so in the past decade or two, that is bridging the gap and it all has to do with dreams. Dreams!As we're moving through the Last Days, the Word says there will be a great revival and a great turning away. Join us as we discuss what is being reported around the world of what is bringing people to Jesus.

Atheist: "If there is a God and He created the universe but only put life on earth, that seems like a really big waste of space."Psalmist: "When I look at Your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?"Two different perspectives of this vast universe.So, why such a big living space and we're just limited to this tiny, blue marble on the edge of the Milky Way galaxy, which is one of billions?The answer will humble as well as excite. There is purpose for it all and it's sure worth exploring: Both the physical and the spiritual aspects.You don't have to be a science fiction fanatic nor a pragmatist to embrace the truths we share in this podcast. There's plenty of room for all of us!

No, we don't want to beat children!However, over the years, we've been posed with the question, "At what point do children become accountable for their own salvation?"That is a very good question and one we tackle on today's podcast.Some people who believe that life begins at conception actually support abortion because those victims go right to heaven. The children, at that point, have no moral or doctrinal accountability (which we deal with in the discussion) and therefore are welcomed into heaven. However, like we pointed out in last week's podcast discussing how life is sacred, their purpose is cut short and all too often just for convenience sake.For those of us who are allowed to live, there comes a point when we must learn moral accountability - learning of right from wrong. But there also comes a time when we must learn doctrinal accountability - the spiritual recognition that we are separated from God and walking in darkness.What about "good people?"What about grade school age children?What about those who have never heard of Jesus?We discuss how we are children of wrath, of disobedience, of the devil, or of God and this revelation will answer many of the above questions. Be ready to expand your understanding of John 3:16 but also the following verses some people choose to ignore.

If you're a video game player where life and death are on the line, you know that you have a limited number of regenerations in case of death. Even if you run out of lives, a simple "restart" will get you back in.Life, in the real world, is a one time deal. The tombstones have two dates and a dash in between: Birth Date - Death Date. That little dash between them is very important.Scientists have shown us the "zinc spark" that happens as the human egg is fertilized. They've now shown us the "fertilization ripple" that occurs immediately afterward.From that point on, life begins. And something else as well: Purpose.The Bible tells us that even before we were conceived, God established a purpose for us. It's not just for us to exist during the "dash." He has created each one of us for a purpose to be fulfilled. That's why we speak out for the sanctity of life.

Poly can mean "many." Ticks are blood sucking parasites. Put those two words together and it sure sounds like "politics." We think you can figure out where we see the parallel.It's been since 1835 that our nation, the Good Ol' U.S. of A, has not carried national debt. President Andrew Jackson was in the White House when we, as a nation, was debt free. Since then, the income to outgo as been staggeringly "in the red."No company or individual can survive operating this way but our nation has continued the downward spiral into massive debt: To the tune of 38.5 trillion dollars. Do we really realize how much debt that is? In this podcast, not only do we vividly illustrate this but we also put the blame where it belongs. And when it comes to having to "pay the piper," well, it's not going to be a pretty picture.What's the answer? Let's talk about it.

As we enter 2026, we take a look back at some of the notable events of the past year. Some good...some not.Political, financial, personal, and spiritual pinnacles and pits punctuate our look back. And we look forward to just how much of a rollercoaster this next year just might be.From horrific deaths to widespread youth revival, we're seeing events that are shaping the nation. We've also seen even more undermining of our nation through political polarization via partisanship. Will we survive this next year? It all depends on our foundation: Solid rock or shifting sand.

What's your favorite Christmas song? Both Jay and Tom agree that "Joy to the World" is each of their absolute favorite. However, research tells us it was not intended to be a Christmas song. Written in 1719 by Isaac Watts, it was meant to be a celebration of the Messiah's Second Coming. Read the lyrics with that in mind and you'll see what we mean.However, in 1833, Lowell Mason created a melody for the verses and it soon became a celebration of Jesus' first coming as well. And if you haven't heard the story Jay loves to tell at this time of year about "Wally's Christmas Play," you'll be touched by the message.The infinite becomes finite. How can God become man? Our discussion today lays out the explanation, giving us what we need to maintain or change our focus of the celebration of Immanuel, God with us, that many heathen around the world participate in. The over 300 Old Testament prophecies Jesus fulfilled, should cause every person to stop and consider that His birth, death, and resurrection wasn't just so we could give each other gifts and eat more desserts than we should. "The Reason For the Season" isn''t just a nice platitude. We're celebrating the birthday of our soon returning King."

Eternity. A long time, right?Not exactly.We, being finite and linear, meaning we have a limited time here on earth and that time passes day by day, hour by hour, have a very difficult time understanding the God who created time, space, and matter.Eternity past is way over our heads and, try as we might, we can't help to think of eternity future in any terms other than linear time. "When we've been there ten thousand years" isn't really accurate because there isn't the concept of time as we know it here. We won't measure time by our wristwatch...or even our calendar!As we celebrate the coming of the Messiah into the world, we hear the phrase, "In the fullness of time." What does that mean? It's actually quite important to know and understand it.Explore with us the revelation via the Word of the timelessness of God and how we and He interact in spite of the fact that He is infinite and we live in the finite world. We have an incredible future!

Who told you that only certain people are hand-picked to go to heaven?Well, they're wrong, to put it bluntly.In this follow up from last week's podcast, "Who Can Be Saved?", we discuss the reason so many are reverting to the Calvinistic theology that only an elect few will enter the Pearly Gates.One of the biggest problems that exists because of this teaching is that those who are spiritually lost have taken umbrage against a God who is supposed to be so loving and kind but chooses people to go to hell at the end of their life. That's hypocritical...and we don't disagree.Nowhere in the Bible does it say that some people are elected to go to hell. And nowhere in the Bible does it say that God sends anyone to hell. Tom and Jay point to the scriptures that prove these wrong.And they also ask and answer:Why did God create evil?Why did God create hell?Why doesn't He just love us all and take us to heaven?Why don't we all just die at the end of our lives and go into nothingness?And we answer these questions according to the Word. Ephesians 2: 8-10 lays it out clearly and Ephesians 4:7 caps it off.

Does God send people to hell? This is one of the ongoing questions many non-Believers have and the accusation they bring against a so-called "loving God."How can a loving God sentence people to burn for eternity?For five centuries, probably longer, people have been taught that God has chosen only certain people to go to heaven. It's bundled up in the T.U.L.I.P doctrine based on John Calvin's teaching in the 1500s. This week's podcast confronts the un-Biblical teaching that some cannot be saved. 2 Peter 3:9 indicates that God 's desire is that everyone repent and be saved. Peter even declared it in Acts 3.Today we aren't condemning but revealing the Biblical foundation of our freewill and God's sovereign grace. From Joshua's declaration of "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" to Jesus' statement "God did not send His Son to condemn the world but that the world, through Him, might be saved," there is hope for any who will believe and follow Jesus.This podcast will help lay a solid foundation for people to be able to know they're saved and know that everyone who puts their faith in Christ will be saved. It's the Good News to a lost world!Jay mentions the website, Soteriology 101. Research it for greater equipping.

Grateful Thursday to Black Friday. Grateful to Greedy in less than 24 hours. Tom likes to call the time from Thanksgiving to Christmas as "The Thirty Days of Gluttony." With people celebrating the holidays, it invariably involves food: Great good and great amounts of it. Then add the pies, Grandma's famous peanut butter fudge, and the ever-famous fruit cake and the calories skyrocket.But just how do we learn to be thankful, especially in a day and age where people are so ego-centric that they feel they deserve what they get and, therefore, take it all for granted instead of being genuinely appreciative.And it's not just "what" we're thankful for but for whom and to whom we are thankful. The bottom line is, thankfulness is a position of being, not just saying. And choosing to be thankful, having a constant attitude of thankfulness, is something we need to be taught and well as be shown by example.Even if the gift we receive isn't something we're necessarily thankful for (the underwear Grandma gave us) it's the person (Grandma) that we love and are thankful for.It's a heart issue, not a possession issue. And we Believers have so much to be thankful for and the greatest Someone for whom we are thankful.

Just how much of everything there is to know do you think you know?Jay and Tom have bounced this question around quite a few times, often with the self-deprecating response, "Probably a thimbleful."Then there are the things that are just plain unexplainable. And too, history is full of myths, legends, and speculations of what the spiritual world is like. We know that Jesus said, "God is spirit and we must worship Him in spirit and in truth." But what does that really mean?We pursue knowledge and understand but do we really pursue wisdom? True wisdom comes from above so that's where we need to start. However, people who reject God end up venturing into myriads of myths and legends, and worse, the dark things. There's a whole lot more to knowledge and we need to be careful where we seek it. The whole realm of fantasy can be very appealing to immerse ourselves in but when it draws away or supersedes Godly wisdom and understanding, red flags should be waving frantically. This podcast proves that Jay and Tom don't agree on everything. But they do agree on the things that matter eternally.

19.5 million people have served our great country through military service. We appreciate and thank our military veterans for all they've done. That's what it has taken to preserve the wonderful freedoms we enjoy today. But has this freedom, sustained by such great sacrifice, become a burden of sorts?It's important for us as citizens of the U.S. of A. to remember exactly what we have. As we stand before the flag representing our great country, we pledge our allegiance. And the writers of our pledge were very specific as to what we give our allegiance to: "The Republic, for which it stands."We also need to remind ourselves that "though we are in this world, we are not of it." This gives us a greater responsibility as Believers to protect what God has established here.Today we discuss the service we give and the responsibilities we have as God's emissaries to this great nation.

En gardé - one of the few French phrases we know. Basically means, "defend yourself" or "be on the ready." And that's exactly what today's topic is all about.Del Tackett from "The Truth Project" posed this question:"Do you really believe what you say you believe is really real?"If that's true, then the next step is to know as much as you can know about your faith, beginning with you. When did you make Jesus Christ Lord of your life? That's the foundation of your faith. When sharing with anyone about the Lord, it all begins there.There are many famous apologists throughout the centuries who have stood in defense of the faith. Their brilliance in being able to defend the faith before skeptics and antagonists is amazing. But are we equipped to do the same? Most of us aren't but we can put on the whole armor of God and, as in 1 Peter 3:15, "make a defense to anyone who asks for the reason for the hope that is in us."In fact, we aren't called to argue religion. It's like the old saying: "We're just simple beggars telling other beggars where to find bread." We share five essential truths that you can easily arm yourself with when God opens a door to share. Simple, to the point, and the truth.

When you look around at what's happening in the world, does it look to you like things are all falling apart or are they all falling together? Your view depends upon what you know about what's often called "the End Times."A few weeks ago, a ceasefire and hostage exchange was declared in the Middle East. This past year, the number of devastating earthquakes, famines, fires, volcanoes, and floods has becoming alarming. Depending upon the source, the numbers are either increasing or the devastation from the present occurrences has become catastrophic.Matthew records Jesus telling about the "last days." Today, we see that some of the things have already taken place. And John's recording in Revelation reads like today's headlines. However, Matthew 24:6 says "See that you're not alarmed..."So, what do we do when we recognize all of these things are happening? Luke tells us of Jesus' words, "Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."Look up! Don't get all bent out of shape looking around. God is in control and is faithful to keep us in His care.

When it comes to sports, coaches are always preaching "fundamentals."When it comes to faith, there are some things that are "raw fundamentals." And what makes these three aspects of faith "raw?" It's the fact that we can't experience them with our senses. It takes belief established on the foundation of the Word. Raw faith.Hebrews 11:6 says, "And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that he rewards those who seek Him."This podcast deals with these three aspects of raw faith and how God is trustworthy to honor our "faith functioning." As we grow in the exercise of our faith, especially in these three areas, we walk in faith in a whole new level. Do you want to stay a nominal Christian or do you want to see the Father honored through your walk and His glory revealed to the lost and dying in this present age? If you excel in this raw faith, the day you see Jesus face to face will be awesome as you see the accomplishments of your faithfulness.

Ever get messed up in your "thinker, feeler, chooser?"We all do. But the Word says "there's a better way!"People think we're made up of body, soul, and spirit when Paul, one of the most brilliant people ever to walk the earth told us we are spirit, soul, and body.Our "earth suit," as Jay eloquently puts it, isn't the primary part of our being. In fact, it's the only part of us that is temporary. The spirit and the soul are eternal, which is why we need to get our priorities straight as to our makeup.So, how do we operate in the correct order? It all has to do with our spirits, demonic spirits, and the Holy Spirit. Jesus said He would send the One who would lead us into all truth. So, if we let our spirits operate under the Holy Spirit's control and we constantly have our minds renewed by the Word, then our lives will reflect the awesomeness of the character of Jesus Christ.

Unity.When Jesus was praying in the Garden just hours before He was crucified, He prayed for His disciples - and for those who would believe because of their testimony - that we would be one.It hasn't worked out that way, has it?There are approximately 46 distinct demonimations - oops, denominations - in America with thousands of off-shoots within the different demonimations, oops again, denominations. John 10:10 states specifically "The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy," and that's what has happened within those who claim to be "true believers." So, if Jesus prayed that we be one as He and the Father are one, where have we missed it? The Church, the Bride of Christ, really isn't a Body fitly joined together like the Word says we should be.So, what's the answer? Our separation, to put it bluntly, is demonic. The Church has been rendered impotent because we too often are fighting each other when we should be fighting the fight of faith, side by side, for the glory of the King. It's time to expose the enemy's tactics and rise up as a pure, spotless Bride.

The Bible. Just a book?One of the characteristics of Progressive Christianity is they keep the language of Christianity but trade the authority God's Word for the approval of the current culture.If you struggle with whether you can rely on the Word of God, then it's not the Bible you need more of but first a true revelation of the God of time, space, and matter. He is very adamant that His Word is truth and is inspired, inerrant, infallible, and incorruptible. It has incredible integrity, period.There is a growing passion for God's Word but, at the same time, there is an attack on it as people water it down, doubt its applicability, or ignore it completely. If the God Who created the universe can't keep His Word, then we're wasting our lives following Him. But if He can, and He can, then a passion for His Word is absolutely essential for our walk with Him.

There's a huge difference between being alone and being lonely but what is it? Gilbert O'Sullivan's song, "Alone Again (Naturally)" might well be titled "Lonely Again (Naturally) as he sings about the emotional pain he goes through as life deals him more and more loss.Some people are turning to AI to the detriment of meaningful connections, like the lady who reportedly said, "I spend five hours a day with my new companion...and I like her more than my daughter." Her new companion is AI.Being alone is a physical condition based upon external connections. Loneliness is a mental/emotional condition based upon feelings and it's the lens through which people look at the world, others, and themselves.The world has its solution to loneliness, though it is quite impotent to solving loneliness but God has the real solution. He says, "I will never leave you nor forsake you," and He means it. He has provided six ways to not just combat loneliness but banish it. Jesus said, "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."

If someone would have thought of operating a cart with rocks to sell in Jerusalem around Jesus' time, they would have made a killing! Between apostates like Stephen and prostitutes, they would have had a big business.But check out the account of the prostitute they brought to Jesus. It didn't end well for the Pharisees. So many churches are in decline because of the perversion of the gift of discernment, a.k.a. Criticism. Like they say in show business, "Everyone is a critic!" Well, not everyone in the church but way too many, that's for sure.Jay and Tom share the 5 D's of criticism: It's divisive, it's demeaning, it's disruptive, it's discouraging, and it's demonic. Listen and find out why.And also discover the alternative and change from being critical to being encouraging. "Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks."

Nearly a generation has gone by since the horrific events of September 11, 2001. Even most who have been born since then are aware of what happened as thousands of Americans lost their lives as a result of evil in the world. When the towers fell and the jets fell from the sky, many had a wakeup call. And it would have been nice if that wakeup call lasted, but something happened just this past week that reveals we have a serious problem in our country. When Charlie Kirk of Turning Point USA fell because of being shot by an assassin, we were shown just how deep the evil and the division is in our country. Some mourned in agony, some in disbelief that anyone would do such a horrific thing, but others cheered and jeered. - Have we lost our humanity?- Have we lost our dignity?- Have we lost our rule of law?Friends, it's not a political problem, it's not a social problem, and it's not an economic problem, though these do exist and continue to grow. But it is a spiritual problem where evil is exalted and truth is spurned. We no longer can dialogue peacefully but have to resort to character assassination as well as physical assassination. America is at a turning point and the followers of Jesus Christ have some decisions to make. Our response will make a difference in the future of our country.

God's kingdom isn't a competition.There are many who call themselves "believers" that have quite a skewed perception of the role of men and women when it comes to kingdom ministry. When the Apostle Paul wrote to his son in the faith, Timothy, he made some statements that some denominations have used to subjugate women to subservient positionsSo, how do we deal with Paul's "women should learn quietly" and 'I do not permit a woman to teach?" He told the Galatians that "there is no Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female. All are one in Christ." Some church leaders may not agree with Jay and Tom but they do need to consider the truth from God's Word and not just operate on historical culture or traditional opinion. We're in God's kingdom together and need to work together to be His Body "fitly joined together."

We all have an "expiration date" It's not printed on us like a jug of milk, but God has it written in His Book of Life. He knows that date but doesn't let us in on it. When we think of mortality, it brings up two very important concepts:1. What happens after we do pass over into eternity?2. How should we live now in preparation for that day?Too many people cling to this life with a death grip. What does this life hold that our promised eternity with the Father compares to? Storing up treasures in heaven, like Jesus said, doesn't mean piling it up down here. Sure, we miss those that have "gone down the long road from which no one returns," but they don't miss us. They're in the presence of the Almighty!Embracing our mortality is important because our mortality will soon put on immortality and we'll never regret living in preparation for that day.

The birth rate of South Korea is presently at about 0.73 births per woman. The birth rate of the U.S. is presently at about 1.6 births per woman.Population replace rate worldwide, considering birth/death ratios, is 2.1 births per woman. This means that both countries are experiencing negative population growth. The effects of this is catastrophic in many ways, not the least of which there will be a depleting work force to support the growing aged population. There are many reasons why women choose abortion, few have anything to do with medical issues as compared to convenience and body autonomy.Thankfully, abortion isn't the only option. Jay and Tom discuss these and stories of how God worked in people's lives when they made a different choice. Today's podcast is a "Fight For Life!

When King David sinned against God via adultery and murder, he had a friend in Nathan to whom he was accountable. It took courage for Nathan to approach the king, who could end his life right there, and help him account for his actions and repent. David and Nathan had a relationship of trust too many people lack in their life.Sin percolates in darkness. Each one of us has areas of weakness that must be confronted and dealt with. Blind spots in our spiritual walk may elude us but with someone to whom we are accountable, we can eradicate them.Trust and accountability doesn't just happen. It takes building a relationship over time and a willingness to be vulnerable.Restoration and reconciliation is what we are called to as believers. Little compares to the freedom we have in Christ when this happens.

Can we lose our salvation or are we guaranteed a seat at Heaven's feast if we walk an aisle, repeat a prayer, and get "dunked" but then live any way we like?If we sin and immediately die, are we bound for hell or is it that it doesn't matter what we do as long as we can tell Saint Peter at the pearly gates that we did more good than bad in our lifetime?There's opinion and there's the Biblical truth. And the key word in this whole podcast is what God's opinion is about being "saved." Some people live in fear of God rejecting them while other people set their own standard of right and wrong and expect God to agree.Knowing the truth settles the issue.

Proclaiming themselves wise, they become fools. Ouch!When we reject God, eventually He gives us over to our sin. In Romans, chapter 1, Paul tells us three areas where we are given over; lust of the heart to impurity, dishonorable passions, and, finally, a reprobate or depraved mind.Sound like anything that is happening today?What does the Word say about the path to the reprobate mind? Is there hope for someone who has been given over to a depraved or reprobate mind? Serious questions for a serious topic.

Termites. Those little buggers can wreak havoc on the foundation of a house, to the point of collapse, if let alone to do their thing.Syncretism has, for centuries, but especially of late, undermined the foundation of faith to the point where sometimes it's hard to tell the Church from the world.So, what is syncretism? It's the blending together of opposite belief systems. It's the amalgamation of different cultures, religions or schools of thought to the point of trying to homogenize them when they actually oppose each other.Truth becomes relative instead of absolute. "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death." Proverbs 14:12. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6 That's very specific and not popular with syncretists. Today, we expose this destructive attempt, warning that we have to be reminded God's Word is the foundation, not the relativism of mankind.

Hey, just repent. God will forgive you.Woah, wait a minute!Is Grace just "sloppy agape?" Can we live like the devil and just tell God, "Sorry, my bad"?When it comes to understanding what and why of the Law as well as what and why of Grace, we find out that there's one thing too many forget as they make choices in life...consequences.Take Jephthah's story in the book of Judges, chapter eleven. He vowed a vow to God if only He would give him a battle victory. It was the most rash and costly vow he would never have imagined possible. Could he have repented of the vow and God just let him off the hook?Digging into the Word helps us understand that eternity isn't just fun and games and missing the burning sulfur forever. We are called to be true followers of Jesus Christ and that means obedience from a changed heart. No more "sloppy agape!"

Sloppy agape? - Follow the rules or free "get out of hell" card?- Is it "Old Testament out, New Testament in?"- In this day of Grace, is the Law something we even need to concern ourselves with?It's vital in today's culture, especially in the modern-day church to fully understand how true followers of Jesus Christ relate to both the Law and Grace. Jesus said that He didn't come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it. What does that mean? In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus referred to the Law as "you've heard it said" or "you've seen it written.' He then lays out that the works of the Law is outward but the work of Grace is heart-changing.That's why we have the Holy Spirit in us. He is the One who empowers but also convicts. He leads us into truth and into repentance. Get out the Book of Galatians. There's a great revelation of just how we're supposed to deal with the Law and Grace.

Tube steaks, baseball, apple, pie, and the odor of burned sulfur wafting in the air. Yup, it's July 4th!As we celebrate the 249th birthday of our great nation, we step back and take a wide view of this country and our involvement in the events happening around the world.Just a few weeks ago, "bunker breaker bombs," in Operation Midnight Hammer, were dropped on nuclear energy labs in the distant country of Iran. A few short days later other events occurred as a direct or indirect result of this action. These are things we need to talk about.Plus, as believers, we need to clarify the difference between our independence and our freedom. Through Christ, we have them but what are we supposed to do with them? Freedom is the responsibility to do what we ought, not the ability to just do what we want.

Ever play the game, "Telephone?" It's where someone whispers something to another person and then they pass it to another person and on and on until everyone has had the phrase whispered to them. Then the last person tells the group what the message was. The results can be hilarious...and more often than not, quite different from the original.Well, unfortunately in the Church world, some of God's Word has been passed around and misquoted, some intentionally - which is a major sin - and sometimes via ignorance of the Word. "God helps those who help themselves" is probably second only to "Money is the root of all evil" as misquoted phrases. In fact, the first one isn't even close to scripture but was in Benjamin Franklin's "Poor Richard's Almanac!"Some misquotes are hilarious while some are quite heartbreaking. Most of us know how important the Bible is to our spiritual life but too many only occasionally visit it or let someone else tell them what It says. How do we insulate ourselves from misquoting and misinterpreting the most important message of the universe? Listen and find out.

There's a whole lot more to "everything" than what we can encounter with our five senses. And more than what is just in what we call the physical world. We know the spiritual world exists because of the evidence presented to us in the Bible. "God is spirit" says a whole lot in three little words. Understanding the spiritual world is important for us as believers. Besides the triune God, the Bible tells us of angels and demons. Though we're just going to skim the surface of the study of the spirit world in this podcast, knowing who and what exists beyond our senses is important. There is warfare in the heavenly realm and we are the reason. Our enemy wants to kill, steal, and destroy and our Father wants us to have abundant life. So, let's begin delving into the truth as revealed in the Word and later we'll dig even deeper into how to live in the victory Jesus established for us.

The dullest pencil is sharper than the sharpest mind, the old saying goes.That's why we're so glad God gave us The Word, a.k.a. the Bible. Oral traditions can morph over time. God's Word doesn't change. And that's why we have to be people who constantly immerse ourselves in the study the Logos - the written Word.So, what is the Rhema? There are some people who disregard the Logos and are always seeking a new revelation, which they call the Rhema or revealed word. The problem occurs when they hear or seek a spoken word but it doesn't line up with the written word. Abuse of the uttered Word doesn't negate it. It just takes understanding how the Holy Spirit works when it comes to our instruction and encouragement, even our direction via the Word.Both are vital for our lives but they go hand-in-hand and this podcast can help bring their balance in your life.

Masks are fun to wear, especially if you don't want someone to know who you are. Bandits wore them in every "Good verses Evil" movie we saw while growing up. Even some of the good guys wore masks to hide their identity when not on the job.The problem is when people who are supposed to be transparent and vulnerable with each other resort to wearing them, and we're speaking specifically of the Church. "I'm fine," is the habitual response to "How are you?" though it may be far from the truth.So, how do we fit together as the Body of Christ when we still feel like we can't be honest with each other? Can we really have "koinonia," TRANSPARENT ACCEPTANCE? Can we operate in God's love that says, "I know who and what you are...and I love you anyway?"Today we look at how to "Love not only in word or talk but in deed and in truth." 1 John 3:18. Maskless and loved. What a concept!

Boat in the water - Good!Water in the boat - Not Good!This is not a new topic since Paul wrote about it to Timothy back in the early church times. The "Godlessness Invasion," however, has ramped up in ways we never would have imagined.Lawlessness in the world is expected. Hey, sinners will sin. However, those of us who claim Christ as Lord and Savior cannot allow lawlessness and Godlessness in teh Church and in our lives, if we're going to draw people to Him.From the un-Biblical attitudes and actions to sermons from pulpits that are devoid of truth, too many churches today are little more than social clubs where people come to either perform their due diligence or get their backs patted and told to be nice to each other. With only nine percent of Christians reading their Bibles daily, the only thing that will keep Godlessness out of the Christian is being neglected. Opinions become gospel when this happens and the Church is sapped of its power to present hope to a hopeless world.Don't settle for "fake ©Rolex watches." We want the real thing!