Social justice is the hot topic that gets tossed around like a beach ball at a summer picnic, but is it really the fresh concept many claim it to be? This dives into this debate, unraveling how the roots of social justice can be traced way back to Paul's day, showing that the struggle against such ideologies is not a new battle but an age-old one. As they unpack Colossians 2:8, the discussion shifts towards the dangers lurking within the church, warning against the alluring traps of philosophy and empty deception that can ensnare believers. Andrew does not hesitate to point fingers at how contemporary movements, likened to Gnosticism, subtly infiltrate churches, twisting the narrative to fit a human-centric worldview that leaves the truth behind. With clever quips and sharp insights, they emphasize that the real antidote to this captivating error lies not in engaging with these philosophies, but in grounding oneself in the unshakeable truth of Christ.

Takeaways:

• In discussing social justice, Andrew emphasizes that its roots can be traced back to historical contexts, revealing a long-standing debate that resonates today.
• Andrew humorously notes that while the sermon may seem light on notes, the depth of the conversation around social justice is anything but superficial.
• The podcast highlights a warning against the allure of false philosophies that can ensnare believers, urging a steadfast adherence to biblical truths instead.
• A critical point raised is that social justice, while often framed positively, might lead people astray from the core tenets of faith, posing a danger to spiritual integrity.
• Andrew provocatively questions whether contemporary discussions around social justice are truly new or merely a reiteration of age-old challenges faced by the church historically.
• Through witty banter, Andrew illustrates how modern philosophical debates echo ancient ones, particularly the Gnostic belief in superior knowledge, which can still mislead believers today.

Mentioned in this episode:

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

Diving right into the thick of it, the latest episode of the Rapp Report tackles the intersection of faith and law, a topic that’s as spicy as a Southern BBQ in July. Andrew Rapoport welcomes the insightful Davis Younts, a scholar blending his passion for Christianity with a sharp legal mind, to dissect the often contentious relationship between biblical principles and the American legal system. They kick off their chat by addressing the misconception that Christians should shy away from engaging with legal matters, especially regarding legislation that can impact the church and its congregants. Younts elaborates on how understanding faith and law is crucial, particularly in light of recent judicial decisions and the implications for religious freedom. With a sprinkle of humor and a hefty dose of thoughtful analysis, they navigate the complexities of how secular humanism reshapes societal norms and what that means for Christians called to stand firm in their beliefs amidst an ever-evolving legal landscape.

Takeaways:

• The podcast explores the intersection of faith and the legal system, emphasizing that Christians should not shy away from engaging in legal matters.
• The guest, Davis Younts, stresses the importance of understanding Christian principles in shaping America's legal framework, citing the Bible's historical influences on the Constitution.
• They discuss the challenges Christians face in a secular world, where legal battles often arise around religious freedom and moral values.
• The conversation highlights the need for Christians to participate actively in public life and the legal system rather than retreating into silence during times of cultural upheaval.

Mentioned in this episode:

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

What Do They Believe

The episode dives headfirst into the essential question of how everyday Christians can deepen their understanding of the Bible, particularly for those who may have attended church regularly but have yet to engage deeply with the scripture. Andrew Rapoport, the host, welcomes Cassian Bolino from the Biblically Speaking podcast, who shares her journey from being a "good Christian girl" to someone who craved a more profound relationship with God through His Word. They explore the idea that many believers settle for a surface-level faith, merely checking off boxes instead of truly seeking to know God on a personal level. The conversation cleverly juxtaposes the necessity of studying scripture with relatable anecdotes, illustrating that understanding the Bible isn't just for theologians—it's for everyone looking to cultivate a genuine relationship with the Creator. With a mix of humor and insightful discourse, the episode encourages listeners to ask questions, seek wisdom, and embrace the richness of biblical truths in their daily lives.

Andrew Rapoport, the host of the Rap Report, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Cassian Bolino, the creator of the Biblically Speaking Podcast. The episode dives deep into the challenge many Christians face: a disconnect between attending church regularly and truly understanding the Bible. Cassian candidly shares her journey from being a good Christian girl to realizing she was missing a profound understanding of her faith. She expresses her early struggles with biblical comprehension, despite diligently attending church and participating in Bible studies. The discussion highlights the importance of not only reading Scripture but also grasping its significance in daily life. Andrew and Cassian tackle the misconception that faith is merely about checking off boxes—attending services or reading verses without truly reflecting on them. They stress that true connection with God comes through a deep, ongoing relationship built by studying the Bible and understanding its context. Cassian's insights into how her curiosity led to her podcast serve as an encouragement for others who might feel lost in their faith journey, emphasizing that seeking knowledge and understanding is not just for theologians but for every believer seeking a genuine relationship with God.

Takeaways:

• Andrew Rapoport emphasizes that understanding the Bible is crucial for Christians, highlighting how many merely skim the surface without deep engagement.
• Cassian Bolino, the host of the Biblically Speaking Podcast, shares her journey of growing in faith despite feeling lost in her understanding of Christianity.
• The podcast stresses the importance of asking questions and seeking wisdom from God, rather than accepting teachings blindly without comprehension.
• Listeners are encouraged to not only attend church but to actively study the Bible and cultivate a deeper relationship with God through His Word.
• The discussion reveals that many Christians lack foundational biblical knowledge, leading to susceptibility to misleading doctrines and interpretations.
• The episode promotes the idea that engaging with different scholarly perspectives can enrich one’s understanding of Scripture and foster a more robust faith.

Links referenced in this episode:

• strivingforeternity.org
• logos.com
• strivingforeternity.org/coffee
• bibspeak.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Striving for Eternity
• Biblical Speaking Podcast
• Squirrelly Joe's
• Logos

Mentioned in this episode:

Book a SfE speaker today

We have several speakers that can cover many different topics. Contact us today: [email protected]

Hurricane Relief for the Brewster family

Andrew Rapoport and Aaron Brewster dive headfirst into the all-too-familiar quagmire of family strife, a topic that, let’s be honest, probably hits home for just about everyone. They kick off the conversation with a cheeky nod to the myth that no one has family issues, only to unravel the layers of conflict that can permeate even the most seemingly perfect households. Brewster introduces his book, *Quit: How to Stop Family Strife for Good*, which serves as a roadmap for navigating and resolving familial tension. The duo explores the nuanced causes of strife, emphasizing that it often stems from a mix of deliberate unbelief, immaturity, and those pesky human tendencies we all grapple with. With a blend of humor and heartfelt wisdom, they aim to equip listeners with practical, biblical solutions to not just alleviate strife, but to foster a more harmonious family environment, reminding everyone that while perfection is off the table, improvement is definitely within reach.

The conversation between Andrew Rapaport and Aaron Brewster dives deep into the often-overlooked topic of family strife, an issue that many might dismiss as non-existent in their own lives. Brewster humorously opens the discussion by suggesting that while everyone else's families might be in chaos, his listeners are likely to consider their own families perfect. This light-hearted banter sets the tone for a more serious exploration of the reality that many families do, in fact, experience some level of conflict, whether they recognize it or not. The discussion touches on Brewster's new book, "Quit: How to Stop Family Strife for Good," where he outlines a practical approach to understanding and alleviating familial tensions. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the subtle forms of strife that can develop over time, comparing it to a frog slowly boiling in water, unaware of the rising temperature.

Brewster draws on his experience working with at-risk youth to illustrate how strife manifests in various forms within families. He presents a list of nine strife creators identified in Scripture, particularly from the Book of Proverbs, and invites listeners to reflect on their own behaviors and attitudes that may contribute to family discord. He suggests that understanding the underlying causes of strife—such as selfish desires and a lack of spiritual maturity—can empower families to address these issues effectively. The podcast does not shy away from the humbling reality that every family member can play a role in creating strife, and encourages listeners to take a hard look at their own contributions to family dynamics.

As the episode progresses, Andrew and Aaron discuss the importance of discipleship and community support within the church as a means to foster healthier family relationships. Brewster emphasizes that while the goal is to reduce strife, it is essential to acknowledge that complete peace may not be achievable this side of heaven, due to the inherent sinfulness of human nature. However, he assures listeners that there is hope through the teachings found in the Bible and practical steps outlined in his book. The conversation wraps up with encouragement to seek help through biblical counseling and to engage with church communities that prioritize truth and mutual support, ultimately framing the discussion as both a serious examination of familial strife and a pathway to greater spiritual growth and connection.

Takeaways:

• In the podcast, they humorously acknowledge that while no one has family strife, the reality is that many families do, often because they're unaware of the subtle issues simmering under the surface.
• Aaron Brewster emphasizes that family strife is often rooted in personal sin and immaturity, suggesting that even small conflicts can lead to larger issues if not addressed.
• The discussion around the book 'Quit' explores how understanding and identifying strife creators can help families navigate their conflicts more effectively and with grace.
• Listeners are encouraged to engage in discipleship and community support as a means to combat family strife, highlighting the importance of biblical counseling and accountability.
• The host and guest use humor to underline serious points, like comparing family issues to boiling frogs, to stress the importance of recognizing and addressing underlying problems before they escalate.
• Brewster's book offers practical insights and QR codes linking to deeper resources, making it a handy tool for families seeking to reduce strife and promote harmony in their homes.

Links referenced in this episode:

• strivingforeternity.org
• evermindministries.org
• truthloveparent.com
• squirrellyjoes.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Striving for Eternity
• Evermind Ministries
• Truth Love Parent
• Squirrelly Joe's Coffee
• MyPillow

Navigating the often murky waters of church leadership and the potential for harm within Christian communities is the focal point of today’s discussion. Andrew kicks things off by asking a poignant question: Have you ever felt misrepresented or harmed by church leaders? As the conversation unfolds, they dive deep into the patterns of behavior that can lead to hurt, particularly how social justice ideologies can infiltrate church doctrine, causing disillusionment for many faithful congregants. With Pastor Jeff sharing his own experiences of being censured and ultimately ousted from his denomination, listeners are encouraged to recognize they are not alone in their struggles. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt reminder that, despite the challenges faced within the church, maintaining a commitment to truth and integrity is paramount for both leaders and congregants alike.

Takeaways:

• The podcast dives deep into the theme of how church leaders can sometimes hurt their congregants, challenging the notion that such behavior is unexpected in Christian environments.
• Pastor Jeff reveals his experience with the Evangelical Free Church, detailing how social justice ideologies infiltrated church governance and practices, affecting the church's integrity.
• A key focus of the discussion is the importance of due process and truth in church discipline, highlighting how many Christians overlook these principles in favor of expediency.
• Listeners are encouraged to develop thick skin in the face of adversity and to trust in God's sovereignty when facing unjust accusations or slander within the church community.

Links referenced in this episode:

• strivingforeternity.org
• cornerstonesj.org
• strivingforeternity.org/coffee
• Woke-Free Church

Mentioned in this episode:

What Do They Believe

What do We Believe by Andrew Rappaport

Rapp Report episode 331

Head coverings have emerged as a hot topic in recent discussions, as highlighted by Dale Partridge, who notes that this issue has not really been a point of contention for centuries but is now gaining traction. The conversation pivots around Dale Partridge's book, "A Cover for Glory," which argues that head coverings were once a universal practice among women in the church and have become obscured in modern times, particularly due to the influence of feminism. Andrew Rappaport engages in a spirited dialogue with Partridge, exploring the theological implications and historical contexts of head coverings, particularly in light of 1 Corinthians 11. They delve into the nuances of authority, gender roles, and the significance of submission in the Christian faith, suggesting that the resurgence of interest in head coverings may reflect a deeper craving for biblical order and masculinity in a culture increasingly at odds with traditional values. Ultimately, the episode serves as a platform for listeners to reconsider their understanding of head coverings and the broader implications for church life and gender dynamics today.

Takeaways:

• Head coverings have emerged as a controversial topic in contemporary Christian discourse, particularly as cultural dynamics shift and traditional practices are reexamined.
• Dale Partridge's book, 'A Cover for Glory', argues that the historical practice of women wearing head coverings has roots that span across many centuries and cultures.
• The discussion around head coverings is not merely about physical adornment but is deeply intertwined with theological concepts of authority and gender roles in the church.
• There's a noticeable trend among younger Christians moving towards traditionalism, including the practice of head coverings, as a response to modern feminism and cultural shifts in gender perception.

Links referenced in this episode:

• relearn.org
• strivingforeternity.org

This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources 

Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast Community

Support Striving for Eternity

Leave us a review

Give us your feedback, email us [email protected]

Get the book What Do They Believe

Get the book What Do We Believe

Sponsors:

Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchase

Logos Bible Software

MyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

Mentioned in this episode:

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

Hurricane Relief for the Brewster family

Rapp Report episode 330

Discussed from What We Believe?

“Therewere two kinds of gifts given totheearly church. Miraculous gifts of divine revelation and healing were given temporarily intheapostolic era forthepurpose of confirmingtheauthenticity oftheapostles’ message (Hebrews 2:3-4;2 Corinthians 12:12). Ministering gifts were given to equip believers for edifying one another. WiththeNew Testament revelation now complete, Scripture becomesthesole test oftheauthenticity of a man’s message, and confirming gifts of a miraculous nature are no longer necessary to validate a man or his message (1 Corinthians 13:8-12). Miraculous gifts can even be counterfeited by Satan to deceive even believers (1 Corinthians 13:13-14:12;Revelation 13:13-14).Theonly gifts in operationtodayare those non-revelatory equipping gifts given for edification (Romans 12:6-8). No one possessesthegift of healingtoday, but God does hear and answertheprayer of faith and will answer in accordance with His own perfect will forthesick, suffering, and afflicted (Luke 18:1-6;John 5:7-9;2 Corinthians 12:6-10;James 5:13-16;1 John 5:14-15).”

This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources 

Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast Community

Support Striving for Eternity

Leave us a review

Give us your feedback, email us [email protected]

Get the book What Do They Believe

Get the book What Do We Believe

Sponsors:

Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchase

Logos Bible Software

MyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

Mentioned in this episode:

Hurricane Relief for the Brewster family

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

Rapp Report episode 329

Discussed from What We Believe?

"There were two kinds of gifts given to the early church. Miraculous gifts of divine revelation and healing were given temporarily in the apostolic era for the purpose of confirming the authenticity of the apostles’ message (Hebrews 2:3-4; 2 Corinthians 12:12). Ministering gifts were given to equip believers for edifying one another. With the New Testament revelation now complete, Scripture becomes the sole test of the authenticity of a man’s message, and confirming gifts of a miraculous nature are no longer necessary to validate a man or his message (1 Corinthians 13:8-12). Miraculous gifts can even be counterfeited by Satan to deceive even believers (1 Corinthians 13:13-14:12; Revelation 13:13-14). The only gifts in operation today are those non-revelatory equipping gifts given for edification (Romans 12:6-8). No one possesses the gift of healing today, but God does hear and answer the prayer of faith and will answer in accordance with His own perfect will for the sick, suffering, and afflicted (Luke 18:1-6; John 5:7-9; 2 Corinthians 12:6-10; James 5:13-16; 1 John 5:14-15)."

Resources mentioned:

The New Testament Case for Fading Miracles

Rapp Report episode 328

Discussed from What We Believe?

"The Bible teaches the calling of all saints to the work of service (1 Corinthians 15:58; Ephesians 4:12; Revelation 22:12).

"The need of the church is to cooperate with God as He accomplishes His purpose in the world. To that end, He gives the church spiritual gifts. First, He gives men chosen for the purpose of equipping the saints for the work of the ministry (Ephesians 4:7-12), and He also gives unique and special spiritual abilities to each member of the body of Christ (Romans 12:5-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-31; 1 Peter 4:10-11)."

The calling of all saints to the work of service is the central theme of this episode, emphasizing that the church is not merely a social club but a community where each member is expected to contribute actively. Host Andrew Rappaport and guest Harold Smith delve into the importance of understanding and utilizing spiritual gifts within the body of Christ to fulfill God's purpose. They explore the misconception that church attendance is sufficient, stressing that genuine participation and service are essential for a healthy church environment. The conversation highlights how service should be motivated by a desire to glorify God, rather than seeking personal gain or avoiding potential hurt from past experiences. With a mix of personal anecdotes and theological insights, the hosts encourage listeners to engage in meaningful ways, ultimately fostering a vibrant and functioning church community.

Takeaways:

• The church is not merely a social club; it's a place for service and ministry.
• Every believer is uniquely gifted to contribute to their local church's mission.
• Serving in the church requires a mindset shift from receiving to giving.
• Healthy churches have members actively seeking ways to serve, not just consume.
• Pastors should not only teach doctrine but also equip their congregation for service.
• All Christians are called to use their gifts to glorify God and help others.

Mentioned in the episode:

This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources 

Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast Community

Support Striving for Eternity

Leave us a review

Give us your feedback, email us [email protected]

Get the book What Do They Believe

Get the book What Do We Believe

Sponsors:

Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchase

Logos Bible Software

MyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

Rapp Report episode 327

Discussed from What We Believe?

"The purpose of the church is to glorify God (Ephesians 3:21) by building itself up in the faith (Ephesians 4:13-16), by instruction of the Word (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16-17), by fellowship (Acts 2:47; 1 John 1:3), by keeping the ordinances (Luke 22:19; Acts 2:38-42), and by advancing and communicating the gospel to the entire world (Matthew 28:19; Acts 1:8; 2:42). The local church is a God-centered, Bible-centered ministry that seeks eternal preparation by the exaltation of God, edification and equipping of believers, and evangelization of the world, starting with the local community."

The primary focus of this podcast episode is the purpose of the church, emphasizing that its mission is to glorify God through various means, including the edification of believers, the instruction of the Word, maintaining fellowship, observing ordinances, and advancing the gospel worldwide. Andrew Rapoport engages in a thoughtful discussion with guest Harold Smith, a church revitalization missionary, who shares insights from his extensive experience working with struggling congregations. They explore the vital role of local churches in not just nurturing existing believers but also in reaching out to the lost, stressing the importance of a God-centered and Bible-centered ministry. The conversation highlights the need for churches to prioritize doctrinal clarity and community, as well as the dangers of becoming too focused on entertaining or appeasing congregants. With a mix of humor and serious reflection, the episode provides valuable insights for anyone involved in church leadership or seeking a deeper understanding of their faith community's role in the modern world.

Andrew Rapoport welcomes Harold Smith to the podcast, where they delve into the vital role of the church in the modern world, emphasizing its purpose to glorify God. This episode marks the continuation of their series on what they believe, specifically addressing the church's mission in relation to personal faith and community. Smith, who serves as a church revitalization missionary, shares his experiences in revitalizing struggling congregations, particularly those with fewer than a hundred members. The discussion highlights the often-overlooked reality of small churches that face significant challenges in maintaining their vitality and effectiveness. Rapoport and Smith outline the church's purpose, which encompasses building up the faith of its members through biblical instruction, fellowship, the observance of ordinances, and the communication of the gospel to the world. They argue for a return to a God-centered and Bible-centered approach, steering clear of the pitfalls of entertainment-driven worship that can dilute the church's true mission. As they unpack the doctrinal statement of Striving for Eternity, a compelling case is made for the church as a nurturing environment that fosters spiritual growth and outreach, directly countering the cultural trend of individualism in faith.

Takeaways:

• The primary purpose of the church is to glorify God through various practices.
• A healthy local church builds itself up in faith through the instruction of the Word.
• Evangelism should focus on outside the church, reaching the community first.
• Fellowship is essential to the church, enabling believers to grow together in faith.
• The church must keep the ordinances to maintain its identity as a body of believers.
• A local church that prioritizes God will naturally equip and evangelize effectively.

Mentioned in this episode:

Book a SfE speaker today

We have several speakers that can cover many different topics. Contact us today: [email protected]

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar