Clair dives into the timeless story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden to explore sacred boundaries. This narrative reveals a profound truth: we were created for limits, not to restrict us, but to invite us into a deeper relationship with God. The serpent's temptation to 'be like God' mirrors our modern struggle with technology, as we strive to be all-knowing, all-present, and all-powerful through our devices. But what if these limitations are actually divine gifts? By embracing our human limits, we make room for God to move in our lives, freeing us from the exhausting pursuit of godlike status. As we consider a 'digital fast,' we're challenged to reexamine our relationship with technology and rediscover the beauty of being present in the physical world God has placed us in.

In this episode of the "But I Tell You" podcast, join us for a compelling conversation with Jay Kim, lead pastor of Westgate Church in Silicon Valley and acclaimed author of books like "Analog Christian," "Analog Church," and "Listen, Listen, Speak." Recorded live from the Practicing the Way conference in Portland, Jay opens up about his personal journey of faith and formation, challenging the conventional idea that discipleship is merely about getting better and doing more.

Discover how Jay's experiences in therapy, spiritual direction, and authentic friendships have led him to a deeper awareness and a more meaningful life focused on wholeness rather than endless self-improvement. He shares profound insights into living fully present with God, countering the cultural pressures of perfectionism and performance that pervade our lives.

Tune in to explore the transformative power of desiring what is already yours—God's love and presence—and learn how this perspective can free you to live more genuinely and joyfully in the here and now. Don't miss out on this inspiring dialogue that encourages us all to embrace our true selves and find real meaning in life's journey.

If you enjoy the episode, remember to like, subscribe, and share with friends. Follow us on social media at @ButITellYouPod for more content and updates! Likewise via subscribing to Tyler's Newsletter

Finally, This episode is produced with generous care by Sami Mititelu

More about Pastor Jay Kim: Jay serves as lead pastor at WestGate Church in the Silicon Valley of California. He is the author of Listen Listen Speak, Analog Christian, Analog Church, and Colossians: One Jesus, One People. He is also a contributing author to Faithful Exiles, Before You Lose Your Faith, and Red Skies. He has been featured in Christianity Today, The Gospel Coalition, Missio Alliance, Outreach, and Relevant Magazine. He is the host of IVP’s Digital Examen Podcast and Barna’s Making Space Podcast. You can email him at [email protected] about just about anything. You can also connect with him on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. He'd love to hear from you!

Pastor Tyler challenges us to confront our relationship with technology and its impact on our spiritual lives. The story of Mary and Martha from Luke 10:38-42 serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of choosing 'the better part' - sitting at Jesus' feet and truly listening. We're asked to consider: are we more like Martha, distracted and worried by many things, or Mary, focused on what truly matters? The parallel between Martha's distractions and our modern digital distractions is striking. Just as Martha was 'pulled away' and 'dragged in different directions,' so too are we by our devices. This message urges us to become what we behold most - and challenges us to behold Christ more than our screens. It's a call to intentional spiritual formation, to counter the unintentional formation that happens through our digital habits. We're reminded that 'attention is the beginning of devotion,' and invited to redirect our attention from our devices to the transformative presence of Jesus.

Take a look forward with us as we dream on God's faithfulness in Seattle and at A Seattle Church.

Take a look back with us as we reflect on God's goodness and faithfulness in Seattle and at A Seattle Church.

In this special Christmas Eve sermon, Pastor Tyler explores the theme of "LOVE," reflecting on the deep connection between love and anxiety, particularly during the holiday season when we often ponder what we treasure most. The sermon weaves through the traditional Christmas narrative in Luke 2, emphasizing the varied responses of characters like Caesar Augustus, the shepherds, and Mary, each illustrating different ways of receiving the divine gift of Jesus.

Pastor Tyler invites us to find ourselves in these characters, considering how we can make space for Jesus in our lives. He challenges us to treasure Jesus as the greatest gift and embrace the transformation He offers. By pondering His presence, we are encouraged to move from reflection to actively sharing God's love with the world. This sermon calls us to let the transformative power of Jesus be born anew in our lives, inspiring us to treasure and praise Him throughout the Christmas season and beyond.

Clair, who leads our Outreach and Prayer Ministries, delves into the prophetic words of Isaiah 9, which foretell the coming of a child who would change everything. This isn't just any peace we're talking about – it's the deep, transformative shalom that only God can bring. We're challenged to move beyond our typical ways of seeking peace through escapism or numbing, and instead lean into the Prince of Peace himself. The four promises in Isaiah's prophecy – light shining in darkness, joy springing up in gloom, breaking the yoke of oppression, and burning the instruments of war – all find their fulfillment in Jesus. As we prepare our hearts this Advent season, we're invited to receive this child-king and allow Him to bring His peace into every area of our lives. It's a reminder that true peace isn't found in circumstances, but in a person – Jesus, our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.

In this episode, Pastor Tyler interviews Dr. Sharon Miller for a deep dive into the complexities of control in our spiritual journey. Dr. Miller is co-pastor of Bright City Church and author of "Free of Me," "Nice," and "The Cost of Control," She shares her incredible insights into how control and faith intertwine for Christians, especially in today's uncertain world.

🌿 What's Covered in This Episode:

--Discover how the pursuit of control can shape our relationships and spirituality.

--Learn about the "false gospel" of control and how to shift towards genuine faith.

--Gain practical tips on balancing influence within God's boundaries.

--Hear Sharon's personal journey through family, church leadership, and overcoming the societal pressures of control.

✨ Key Takeaways:

1. The surprising link between anxiety and control.

2. How to recognize the cost of control in your life and relationships.

3. Embracing faith amidst uncertainty and the call to let God lead.

🔗 Connect with Sharon Miller:

--Follow her on Instagram: @SharonHMiller

--Tune into her podcast: "The Resilient Pastor" featuring delightfully insightful conversations.

If you find it helpful, share it with someone who needs encouragement today.

Thanks for tuning in! 🙏 Let’s journey together towards transformation and healing.

Pastor Brice takes a deep dive into the prologue of John's Gospel, uncovering profound truths about Jesus Christ. The message reveals how John artfully connects Jesus to both the Creation story and the Exodus, painting a picture of Christ as the Word, the Light, and the catalyst for new creation. We're challenged to consider the magnitude of these claims: Jesus as fully divine, eternally existent, and the source of all life. This isn't just ancient theology; it's a call to recognize that God hasn't abandoned us in our darkness. Instead, He's entered our world, offering us unshakable hope and a bright future. As we navigate the ups and downs of the Christmas season, we're invited to let our moments of despair serve as reminders of the glorious future God has prepared for us. This message encourages us to choose hope, not as mere optimism, but as a powerful act of faith and endurance.

Pastor Tyler delves into Philippians 2:5-11, uncovering the profound truth of Christ's self-emptying love. This passage, known as the 'Christ Hymn,' reveals how Jesus, despite being fully God, chose to humble Himself and become human for our sake. We're challenged to adopt this same mindset of Christ - one of selflessness and joy in serving others. The message reminds us that true joy isn't found in worldly power or success, but in following Jesus' example of radical self-surrender. As we navigate the sorrows and challenges of life, we're encouraged to choose joy deliberately, not as a fleeting emotion, but as a steadfast attitude rooted in our faith. This choice to embrace joy, even in difficult circumstances, becomes an act of faith and a powerful testimony to the transformative power of Christ in our lives.