What does it mean to abide in Christ? As Christians we certainly acknowledge the existence of God, but it is another thing entire to live in the presence of that God we know exists. Join us this week as we open up John 15 with Christian counselor Scott Lownsdale and discuss this very topic.

Recommended Resources:

Desiring God, Revised Edition: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist by John Piper

The Pleasures of God: Meditations on God's Delight in Being God by John Piper

The Practice of the Presence of God and The Spiritual Maxims by by Brother Lawrence 

Dr. Scott's Website

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This week we welcome back Evangelist Scott Pauley as we chat about his book, The Need of Our Nation. Don't worry, we're not talking about a political agenda or any sort of Christian nationalism. Instead, Brother Pauley focuses on the spiritual revival we in God's house need so much.

Recommended Resources:

The Need of Our Nation by Scott Pauley

Enjoying the Journey

Deep Dive with Evangelist Scott Pauley

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Everyone needs hope. We all cling to some sort of hope. But, as believers, what is our ultimate hope? Where can we turn for hope? The Scripture offers us not merely an optimistic feeling based on good intentions, but a solid confidence found in the gospel. In his book, A Hope Filled Life, Pastor James R. Wilkes seeks to give a theology of hope grounded in the Word of God. You won't want to miss this episode. Not only is this author a great pastor, but he was my pastor for many years growing up. Very few people have invested their life into mine like he has.

Recommended Resources:

A Hope-Filled Life: The Significance of Hope in the Life of the Believer by James R. Wilkes

The Glory Walk: Living on Purpose for the Glory of God by James R. Wilkes 

The Grace Today Blog

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Last week Evangelist Tom Farrell went to be with the Lord at the age of 69 after suffering from a brain tumor. I have found memories of hearing Dr. Farrell preach at the Wilds Christian camp several times when I was a teenager. He preached with passion and loved the Word. This week I'll share my greatest memory of him, this interview I conducted with him at the Wilds about 25 years ago. This also has the distinction of being the very first interview I ever recorded with anyone! I was only a teen but he gave me some time to sit down with him. So, this week's podcast features an interview with Tom Farrell that gives us a little insight on his personal background and gives a glimpse inside the mind of me as a teenager!

Recommended Resources:

Preaching That Pleases God: The Keys To Life-Changing Bible Exposition by Tom Farrell

Tom Farrell Evangelistic Ministries

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We have finally come to the end of our series on the five points of Calvinism. Last week, Ray Jewell gave his rebuttal to Calvinism while I TRIED to hold my tongue. This week there is no chance of that happening. This week, Ray and I rumble. We are having it out. The last time this happened, Ray outsmarted me for sure. This time, the gloves are off and I am ready to go. Who will win? Listen and decide for yourself.

Recommended Resources:

For Calvinism by Michael Horton

Against Calvinism: Rescuing God's Reputation from Radical Reformed Theology by Roger E. Olson

Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church by N. T. Wright 

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We are nearing the end of our series on the Five Points of Calvinism. But, we couldn't end this series without hearing from our favorite Arminian, Ray Jewell. Ray has been waiting patiently but has been waiting for this very moment. So, listen in to Ray's rebuttal for the past several episodes.

Recommended Resources:

The Works of John Cassian by John Cassian

Why I Am Not a Calvinist by Jerry L. Walls, Joseph R. Dongell 

Why I Am Not an Arminian by Robert A. Peterson, Michael D. Williams 

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Welcome back as we continue to weave our way through the Five Points of Calvinism. This week will be part two of the panel discussion we started on the last episode. We have each of the panelists back and one additional late comer, Pastor Aaron White. So, don't miss the exciting conclusion!

Recommended Resources:

For Calvinism by Michael Horton

Chosen by God by R. C. Sproul

Bondage of the Will by Martin Luther 

Why I Am Not a Calvinist by Jerry L. Walls, Joseph R. Dongell 

Why I Am Not an Arminian by Robert A. Peterson, Michael D. Williams 

Can You Lose Your Salvation?

Why are some saved, and not others?

Predestined to Make a Decision not for the Rapture

Five Views of Predestination/Election | The Lutheran View

The Doctrine of Election

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We're back in our series on Calvinism, but this week the gloves come off. For the next two weeks we'll be airing a panel discussion that took place in my systematic theology class (via zoom). This panel features four different perspectives. Here for the discussion are our own Ray Jewell, Gary Zimmerman of Rockford Lutheran School and Scott Whiting, pastor of the Compass Church in Janesville, WI.

Recommended Resources:

Five Points: Towards a Deeper Experience of God’s Grace by John Piper

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This is the interview I've been looking forward to post. Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez is convicting and fascinating history of the modern evangelical movement. While I don't agree with every conclusion she draws, the book is well worth your time. There are lessons on patriarchy, abuse and the mishandling of Scripture that should give us much to think about and even act upon. Kristen was very kind to give us a few minutes of her time on what was an incredibly busy day for her as the paperback of this book launched on the very day of our interview.

Recommended Resources:

Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation by Kristin Kobes Du Mez

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