Adventist Podcast Network

Loneliness among pastors, despite being surrounded by people, is often rooted in fear of vulnerability, fast-paced environments, and reliance on technology, leading to isolation. Loneliness can have significant health implications, including increased risk of chronic illnesses, but addressing it through self-care, social engagement, and real-world connections can help mitigate its effects.

The primary purpose for which God established the nation of Israel was not to condemn the rest of the world but to save it. Certainly, most of us feel condemned when we are confronted by righteous behavior in someone else; so the existence of Israel also served to highlight the sin and selfishness of the nations around it. Believers living in harmony with God highlight His righteous character, which naturally leads to conviction. Ideally, the lives of people who “keep the commandments of God” (Rev. 14:12) should showcase His character.

However, had the Israelites acted as they should have and done what they had been told to do, the nations would have come to them in peace, seeking to know more about them and their God. Tragically, as the Babylonian captivity showed, these nations came to wage war instead.

The ultimate showcase of God’s character, of course, was Jesus—the only human who has perfectly demonstrated it. But His perfect example, which certainly brought conviction to hearts, was intended as an invitation (see John 3:16–21).

The ultimate purpose for establishing the nation of Israel was the same as God’s purpose in establishing the church: He longs to use His people to draw sinners toward Christ. The call of the three angels’ messages, delivered through His church, goes out, not to a select few but to “every nation, tribe, tongue, and people” (Rev. 14:6, NKJV). Revelation 18:1 predicts that the whole earth will be lighted up with the glory of God prior to Christ’s return.

What do the following passages teach us about God’s intended role for His people in this world? How can we apply these principles to ourselves?

(a) Num. 14:17–21

(b) Isa. 42:6, Isa. 49:6, Isa. 60:3

(c) Rev. 18:1–4

Read again Revelation 18:1–4, the call for “my people,” that is, God’s people, to come out of Babylon. How is that going to happen? In other words, how can we, as a church that is not in Babylon, be used by God to call out God’s people who are still in Babylon?

In this special episode, Zanita and Jesse discuss the recent passing of Pope Francis. What happens after the pope's death, the mourning period and the appointment of a new pope?

If you'd prefer to read Jesse's write up, you can do so here.

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Join host Japhet De Oliveira and his guest, Chase Aalborg, President of Adventist Health Castle, for an enriching conversation about his personal experiences with healthcare, how he views obstacles as opportunities, his devotion to family, and how his faith intertwines through all of his life's stories and experiences.