In this week’s Victorious Grow Group Podcast, Pastor Joey, Barry, Brandon, and AB reflect on Romans 4–5 and Abraham’s faith as a model for believers. They emphasize that salvation is by grace through faith, not works or law, highlighting Abraham’s trust before the law and circumcision. The conversation explores how tribulations build perseverance, character, and hope, while cautioning against false expectations of sinless perfection. They stress the importance of abiding with Christ rather than striving in human strength.

The group draws lessons from Abraham’s journey: waiting on God’s timing, trusting in impossible circumstances, and recognizing faith as a continually growing process. They unpack Paul’s teaching on justification, Christ’s finished work (“tetelestai”), and Jesus as the ultimate mercy seat and propitiation. Practical applications include remembering God’s equal offer of grace, personal responsibility to believe, and yielding to God’s vision and timing. The session closes with prayer requests—wisdom, patience, perseverance, family needs, and thanksgiving for new life—before ending in prayer and encouragement to share the devotional resources with others.

If you want to follow along with our daily scripture readings, Victorious devotional guides are available on ⁠⁠Amazon.

00:00–02:24 | Opening banter, devotional resources introduced; encouragement to pick up Victorious devotional guides and supplements.

02:24–04:53 | Brandon shares how Romans 4 impacted him: Abraham’s faith before the law, salvation by faith not rituals, and lessons from tribulations.

04:53–07:37 | Discussion on striving for sinless perfection—contrasting false teaching with biblical truth: Christians abide in Christ, not human effort.

07:37–09:38 | Romans 5:1–5 read and applied: tribulation leads to perseverance, character, and hope. Importance of distinguishing trials from self-inflicted struggles.

09:38–12:22 | Abraham’s example—faith before law and circumcision. Salvation always by grace through faith; children of Abraham are all who believe, not by genetics.

12:22–15:25 | Lighthearted humor about circumcision. Discussion of Abraham’s faith in resurrection and Isaac’s obedience—Jewish tradition on the binding of Isaac.

15:25–18:47 | Practical applications: grace available but not automatic, becoming children of promise through faith, equal access for all believers.

18:47–20:28 | God calls things into existence; believers invited into His bigger plan and vision. Faith requires yielding to God’s timing.

20:28–24:16 | Abraham’s faith journey: failures (lying about Sarah, Hagar episode), lessons in waiting. Faith grows through hopelessness and God’s timing.

24:16–27:36 | Perseverance of faith; God delights in working in impossible situations. Romans 5 revisited—justification, peace with God, hope in tribulation.

27:36–30:43 | “Justified” explained; Jesus’ final word “Tetelestai”—paid in full, sentence served, victory won. Christ’s work fully sufficient.

30:43–34:49 | Justification, sanctification, and glorification explained; believers secure in salvation. Christ as propitiation and true mercy seat.

34:49–37:06 | Brandon reflects on Abraham’s steadfast but imperfect faith; law superseded by faith. Trials strengthen belief and support the Great Commission.

37:06–39:17 | Closing reflections: justified by grace, peace with God, living by the Spirit. Invitation to share devotional resources and podcast.

39:17–42:10 | Prayer requests: wisdom, perseverance, family transitions, baby Esther’s health, septic system issues.

42:10–42:30 | Closing prayer and farewell; encouragement to continue reading, sharing, and abiding in the Spirit.

This episode of the Grow Group Podcast continues the Victorious series in Romans, focusing on chapters 2 and 3. After lighthearted opening banter, the group discusses Paul’s teaching on judgment, sin, and God’s impartiality. They emphasize that no one is righteous by works or heritage—salvation comes only by grace through Christ. The conversation unpacks the purpose of the law, the danger of self-righteousness, and the need for repentance, transparency, and surrender. Practical insights include self-reflection, recognizing God’s kindness, trading criticism for intercession, and cultivating accountability. The group also illustrates grace versus moralism, discusses the futility of self-effort, and stresses that all people are equally in need of a Savior. The episode closes with personal prayer requests and announcements about devotional resources.

If you want to follow along with our daily scripture readings, Victorious devotional guides are available on ⁠Amazon.

In the kickoff episode of Season 3, the Grow Group Podcast begins a new study series, Victorious, walking through the book of Romans. After lighthearted updates and personal stories, the hosts—Chip, Pastor Joey, Brandon, and Barry—explore Romans chapter 1. They discuss Paul’s identity as a “slave of Christ,” the implications of obedience, the refining work of suffering, and the transformative power of the gospel. The conversation emphasizes spiritual responsibility, unashamed faith, and God’s righteousness as both a status and a power that changes lives. The episode closes with reflections on humanity’s depravity, God’s grace, and a time of prayer for personal and family transitions.

If you want to follow along with our daily scripture readings, Victorious devotional guides are available on Amazon.

00:00 – 00:25 | Introduction

Launch of Season 3, new Victorious series, focus on Romans. Hosts introduced .

00:25 – 04:44 | Life Updates & Humor

Stories about weddings, meeting “the boy,” first-day-of-school traditions, and humorous family moments .

04:44 – 05:26 | Why Romans Matters

Overview of Romans as the “treatise of the Christian life”—covering salvation, sin, Christian living, and prophecy .

05:26 – 06:34 | Devotional Resources

Encouragement to follow along with the Victorious devotional, join grow groups, and engage in community reflection .

06:34 – 09:59 | Paul as a Slave of Christ

Discussion of Paul’s opening in Romans 1:1; cultural context of slavery in Rome; parallels to Christian obedience and loyalty .

10:00 – 12:37 | Mark of Devotion

Exploration of identifying marks of chosen servants and the radical nature of Paul calling himself a “slave” despite Roman citizenship .

13:00 – 15:28 | Prayer, Suffering, and Refining

Reflections on Paul’s hardships, God’s answers to prayer, and how suffering shapes believers .

15:29 – 18:02 | Biblical Examples of Refinement

Examples from Paul, Elijah, Moses, and others who endured wilderness experiences before stepping into calling .

18:02 – 19:22 | Fellowship and Encouragement

Emphasis on Paul’s desire for mutual encouragement in Rome; application to modern grow groups .

19:22 – 21:46 | Spiritual Responsibility

Challenge for Christians to share the gospel and invest in others’ lives, rather than remain passive .

22:11 – 24:17 | Not Ashamed of the Gospel

Romans 1:16 discussed as a declaration of God’s power to save; encouragement to boldly share faith .

24:17 – 27:57 | Righteousness as Power

Righteousness is not only legal standing before God but also life-changing power for transformation .

27:58 – 30:41 | Living Plugged into Christ

Analogy of “battery power” vs. “plugged into the source”; necessity of abiding in Christ’s authority and Spirit .

30:41 – 34:44 | General Revelation & Depravity

Creation as evidence of God; humanity’s willful rejection; progression of idolatry, disordered thinking, and debauchery .

34:45 – 37:24 | God’s Grace Despite Sin

Romans 3 preview; God’s initiative in salvation; illustration of parental love and discipline compared to God’s patience .

37:27 – 38:42 | Living in a Fallen Culture

America likened to a pagan nation; sin in all its forms as evidence of spiritual bankruptcy .

38:42 – 40:29 | Prayer Requests & Closing Prayer

Hosts share personal prayer needs—family, parenting, transitions—and close in prayer .

40:29 – 41:18 | Outro

Invitation to share the podcast, reminder of devotional availability, and announcement of weekly Monday episode drops .

In this final “Come and See” Week 12 discussion, the Grow Group reflects on the events surrounding Jesus’ trial, crucifixion, and resurrection as told in the Gospels. The conversation begins lightheartedly with personal life updates, then moves into deeper reflections on the injustice of Jesus’ trial before Pilate and Herod, Peter’s denial, the crowd’s choice of Barabbas, and the parallels to modern “cancel culture.” They explore the persistence of Jesus’ love despite betrayal, the thief on the cross’s last-minute faith, and the torn temple veil’s significance. The group considers human resistance to belief due to accountability, the call to live “on mission” as in the Great Commission, and the importance of church as an active, relational body rather than a passive event. They close with encouragement to join small groups, a preview of their upcoming Romans study, personal prayer requests, and a reminder to maintain daily walk with God.

If you want to follow along with our daily scripture readings, Come and See devotional guides are available on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

• 00:00 – 00:02 | Introductions & life updates: wedding prep, teaching, humor.

• 00:03 – 00:04 | Final “Come and See” week intro; standout passages.

• 00:04 – 00:06 | Kangaroo court banter leads to Jesus’ trial before leaders.

• 00:06 – 00:09 | Pilate & Herod find no fault yet yield to crowd pressure.

• 00:09 – 00:10 | Mob mentality & cancel culture comparison.

• 00:10 – 00:11 | High priest’s prophetic statement about Jesus’ blood.

• 00:11 – 00:13 | Even criminals need prayer; redemption message.

• 00:13 – 00:15 | Peter’s denial shows both courage and failure; absent disciples.

• 00:15 – 00:17 | Jesus’ love unchanged toward Peter & Judas.

• 00:17 – 00:20 | Thief on the cross shifts from mocking to faith.

• 00:20 – 00:23 | Peter’s restoration: Greek word study on love.

• 00:23 – 00:26 | Torn temple veil’s meaning & aftermath questions.

• 00:26 – 00:29 | Priests bribe guards to lie about resurrection.

• 00:29 – 00:32 | People reject truth to avoid accountability.

• 00:32 – 00:33 | “Throne of the heart” – choosing self vs. God.

• 00:34 – 00:37 | Great Commission: living on mission as disciples.

• 00:37 – 00:39 | Peter’s “Forrest Gump moment” rushing to Jesus.

• 00:39 – 00:41 | Faith maturing; community accountability.

• 00:41 – 00:44 | Church as active participation, not passive event.

• 00:44 – 00:46 | Testimonies of small group spiritual growth.

• 00:46 – 00:47 | Preview of “Victorious” Romans study after Labor Day.

• 00:47 – 00:50 | Prayer requests: school year, family, health.

• 00:51 – 00:53 | Closing prayer & farewell; stay in the Word.

In Week 11 of the Come and See series, the group dives into powerful moments from Jesus’ final days, including the Last Supper, His prayer in Gethsemane, and His declaration as the only way to the Father (John 14). Through humorous and heartfelt conversation, the men explore deep theological truths: Jesus’ humanity and divinity, the cost of submission, and the mystery of abiding in Christ. The episode is filled with personal stories, biblical insight, and practical reflections on living a surrendered, fruitful life.

If you want to follow along with our daily scripture readings, Come and See devotional guides are available on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

00:00–03:17 – Opening banter

The hosts share light-hearted updates, from midnight snacking to family news and weddings.

03:18–04:45 – Overview of Week 11 topics

Discussion of stories covered this week: the Last Supper, John 14 and 15, and Gethsemane.

04:46–06:05 – Family reflections and Bible memory

Sharing moments of how their children recall Scripture through creative methods.

06:06–09:12 – The Garden of Gethsemane

Exploring Jesus’ anguish, “nevertheless” prayers, and the human experience of submitting to God’s will.

09:13–12:36 – Theology of Jesus’ nature

In-depth discussion about Jesus being fully God and fully man; the doctrine of immutability and free will.

12:37–14:35 – Jesus’ power and restraint

Reflections on Jesus’ choice to submit to arrest and His ability to call down angels.

14:36–16:14 – Peter’s impulsive act

Peter cutting off Malchus’ ear and its potential consequences—misguided zeal in Jesus’ name.

16:15–18:06 – Miracles and disbelief

The irony of Jesus’ miracles being ignored by those arresting Him.

18:07–21:27 – John 14:6 and exclusivity of Christ

Clarifying that while Christianity is exclusive in path, it’s inclusive for all who believe.

21:28–24:17 – The beauty and simplicity of the gospel

God doing for us what we cannot do ourselves; dangers of self-made theology.

24:18–27:09 – Communion and the Passover

How Jesus redefined the Passover meal and fulfilled it as the true Passover Lamb.

27:10–29:00 – Connecting the stories

Encouragement to see Jesus’ story as a cohesive fulfillment of Scripture.

29:01–30:54 – Abiding in Christ (John 15)

Why the abiding life is essential but often elusive—busyness, control, and priorities.

30:55–32:03 – Metaphors of surrender

Submission as letting go of control and allowing Jesus to lead like a conductor.

32:04–36:09 – Abiding as relationship

Parallels between abiding in Christ and maintaining close, daily relationship—like with a spouse.

36:10–37:02 – Prayer requests

Sharing personal needs—family, remodeling projects, parenting, and upcoming baby.

37:03–40:30 – Group prayer and closing

Prayer for wisdom, strength, and God’s guidance; episode outro and devotional resource reminder.

In Week 10 of the Grow Group Podcast, the group returns with warmth and humor, discussing life updates including family milestones and parenting adult children. The episode dives deeply into Matthew 23, focusing on Jesus’ “woes” to the Pharisees and the dangers of religious performance. The group reflects on the themes of authenticity, hypocrisy, and self-examination. They examine the parable of the talents within the context of end times, emphasizing accountability, the Great Commission, and living a gospel-centered life. The episode concludes with a heartfelt call to “fight for the altar,” encouraging renewed focus on personal surrender and church invitation culture.

If you want to follow along with our daily scripture readings, Come and See devotional guides are available on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

00:00–04:00 — Welcome back; light-hearted banter and personal updates, including pregnancies, sonograms, and family news.

04:00–07:00 — Parenting updates, recovery progress, and a discussion on local athletes drafted to MLB.

07:00–08:30 — Transition to this week’s study: the theme of religious performance and Jesus’ woes in Matthew 23.

08:30–10:10 — Reflections on spiritual hypocrisy and parallels to modern situations like Chip and Joanna Gaines.

10:10–12:30 — Discussion on confronting sin with truth and love vs. judgmentalism; dangers of both extremes.

12:30–14:10 — Value of authenticity in relationships and church; blindness to personal faults and attitudes.

14:10–16:00 — Motivations for Christian actions—earthly versus eternal—and guarding against Pharisaical thinking.

16:00–17:20 — Jesus’ confrontation of the Pharisees is framed as tough love, not condemnation.

17:20–18:40 — Explanation of “phylacteries” and external religious symbols; Christ desires inward transformation.

18:40–20:20 — Personal testimonies of spiritual anxiety, feelings of inadequacy, and struggles with performance.

20:20–21:50 — Transition to the parable of the talents and the difference between true stewardship and performance.

21:50–24:00 — Parable explained as end-times teaching: what are you doing with the gospel entrusted to you?

24:00–26:15 — Importance of multiplying the impact of salvation and accountability before God.

26:15–30:00 — Personal reflections on purpose, legacy, and struggles with prioritizing the gospel in daily life.

30:00–33:00 — The call to live missionally and let the gospel overflow from who we are, not just what we do.

33:00–35:00 — Juxtaposition of Judas’s betrayal and others’ faithfulness; introspective reflections on shame and motives.

35:00–37:00 — Speculative discussion on Judas’s intentions and the dangers of co-opting God’s plan.

37:00–39:00 — Conversation shifts to portrayals of Bible stories in The Chosen and differing perspectives.

39:00–41:30 — Teaching from the Great Commission: living the gospel as who you are, not just something you do.

41:30–43:00 — A testimony of spiritual growth and transformation from striving to being.

43:00–45:00 — Prayer requests: homework, parenting adult children, healing, personal growth, wisdom, and patience.

45:00–48:15 — Conviction around altar calls; renewed challenge to make the altar a central part of worship again.

48:15–50:00 — Final prayer, encouragement to multiply talents and live a genuine Christian life.

50:00–End — Outro and invitation to continue following the podcast and devotional journey.

In Week 9 of the “Come and See” Grow Group Podcast, the group—Chip, Pastor Joey, Brandon, and Barry—engages in rich discussion centered around Jesus’ teachings and parables, particularly the Parable of the Wicked Tenants (Vineyard), the story of Zacchaeus, and the cleansing of the temple. The episode blends theological insights with personal reflections on repentance, the heart behind worship, persecution of faith, and the state of society. The group emphasizes the importance of true repentance, the purpose of the temple (both literal and personal), and the readiness to bear spiritual fruit. The conversation concludes with personal prayer requests and encouragement rooted in faith.

If you want to follow along with our daily scripture readings, Come and See devotional guides are available on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

00:00–02:35 – Introduction and light-hearted jigsaw puzzle story; Joey returns post-surgery.

02:36–04:24 – Personal updates: family milestones, mission trips, and Joey’s new book “Unsinkable.”

04:25–08:10 – Discussion of the Parable of the Wicked Tenants (Matthew 21): symbolic roles, injustice, and God’s grace through Jesus.

08:11–11:59 – Social media hostility toward Christian content; cultural rejection of Christ; connecting parable themes to modern responses to the gospel.

12:00–14:35 – Cultural examples of cruelty and judgment; comparison to Jesus’ rejection and society’s need for a Savior.

14:36–19:11 – The heart of the tenant metaphor: entitlement, gratitude, and displaying Christlike character during crises.

19:12–22:07 – Zacchaeus’ story (Luke 19): God’s pursuit despite unworthiness; hope in Christ’s acceptance.

22:08–26:28 – True repentance: vertical (with God) and horizontal (with people); example from Zacchaeus and real-life restitution story.

26:29–28:01 – Prodigal son and the importance of reconciliation; parallels with Zacchaeus.

28:02–30:34 – Jesus’ triumphal entry and fig tree cursing: symbolism of fruitlessness and spiritual power through faith.

30:35–33:22 – Jesus overturns temple tables again; reflection on sacredness of worship spaces and personal integrity.

33:23–35:19 – Corruption in the temple: gouging worshipers, profiting from religion, and modern parallels in church dynamics.

35:20–37:14 – Intentional misuse of church community for personal gain; example of business-motivated church attendance.

37:15–39:02 – Temple as metaphor for the believer: evaluating what needs cleansing in our hearts and motives.

39:03–41:06 – The heart as central theme: from Zacchaeus to Mary’s gift to Jesus; motivations behind religious actions.

41:07–42:34 – Fig tree symbol revisited: staying spiritually fruitful and vigilant in living faithfully.

42:35–44:57 – Fig tree as symbol of Israel and spiritual transition to the Church; link to Romans and eschatological views.

44:58–47:09 – Prayer requests: flood victims, family situations, healing, and guidance. Episode closes in prayer.

47:10–47:39 – Outro: podcast details, devotional availability, and next episode preview.

In Week 8 of the “Come and See” series, the Grow Group reflects on the theme of mercy and relationship with Jesus over task-oriented service. Using scriptures including the story of Mary and Martha, the parable of the narrow way, the prodigal son, and the rich young ruler, the group explores how spiritual growth hinges on prioritizing personal connection with Christ rather than checking religious boxes. The discussion is honest, personal, and filled with humor, touching on topics like hospitality, self-righteousness, forgiveness, and grace in community and politics.

If you want to follow along with our daily scripture readings, Come and See devotional guides are available on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

00:00 – 04:24 | Banter & Opener

Light-hearted stories about snacks, vacations, and a neighbor’s unexpected passing.

04:25 – 06:28 | Mercy & Childhood

Barry tells a story from his youth tied to the concept of mercy—shifting to how Jesus modeled compassion and forgiveness.

06:29 – 08:38 | Defining Mercy

Mercy involves forgiveness, empathy, and restoring relationship—demonstrated by Jesus and expected of us.

08:39 – 10:34 | Mary & Martha

Jesus values presence over performance. Mary chooses relationship; Martha is distracted by doing.

10:35 – 13:06 | Being With Jesus

We’re reminded that ministry and activity can’t replace time spent with Jesus.

13:07 – 14:53 | One Thing Is Necessary

Spiritual fruit comes from abiding with Christ—not religious multitasking.

14:54 – 16:05 | The Narrow Way

Jesus warns that salvation isn’t about deeds but knowing Him personally.

16:06 – 17:47 | Ministry ≠ Relationship

Serving in church can feel like intimacy with God, but it’s not the same as knowing Him.

17:48 – 19:26 | Knowing vs. Being Known

A reflection on the difference between admiring Jesus and being in relationship with Him.

19:27 – 20:57 | Rich Young Ruler

The man keeps the commandments but refuses to surrender—Jesus wants the heart, not just behavior.

20:58 – 23:08 | Letting Go

We can’t cling to earthly things and fully receive God’s kingdom.

23:09 – 25:08 | Goodness & Grace

We all fall short—our efforts don’t make us righteous; only Jesus does.

25:09 – 27:11 | Hidden Sins

Cultural sins are overlooked while visible ones are shamed. God cares about the heart.

27:12 – 28:15 | Quote Reflection

“The soul cannot receive divine fullness if it clings to the finite.” Full surrender brings spiritual fullness.

28:16 – 29:48 | Parables of the Lost

Luke 15 shows Jesus relentlessly pursuing the lost—whether sheep, coin, or son.

29:49 – 31:10 | Pharisees & Judgments

Jesus critiques religious judgment. We often fall into the same trap today.

31:11 – 34:21 | Politics & Mercy

Modern division mirrors Pharisaical attitudes. Mercy should override labels.

34:22 – 35:55 | Prodigal Son’s Brother

The older son resents grace. God invites us to rejoice when others are restored.

35:56 – 37:32 | Recognizing Our Reward

Faithfulness doesn’t go unnoticed—being with the Father is the true reward.

37:33 – 39:24 | Pursuing the Lost

Jesus continually rescues us—even when we stumble repeatedly.

39:25 – 41:03 | Grace Again and Again

God’s grace isn’t limited. He comes for us every time we wander.

41:04 – 42:32 | Prayer Requests

The group shares needs for healing, patience, guidance, and spiritual growth.

42:33 – 46:03 | Prayer & Wrap-Up

Closing prayer of gratitude and reflection. Encouragement to stay close to Jesus.

In Week 7 of the Come and See podcast, the group explores major biblical themes from John 8 and Luke 10, focusing on the story of the woman caught in adultery, the parable of the Good Samaritan, and several of Jesus’ “I Am” statements. The conversation begins with humorous personal updates before transitioning into deep theological discussions on mercy, grace, forgiveness, spiritual authenticity, and the practical outworking of salvation. The group reflects on how believers should confront sin—with love rather than condemnation—and emphasizes the importance of hearing God’s voice and embodying Christlike compassion. The episode closes with a heartfelt prayer session, highlighting personal and family needs.

If you want to follow along with our daily scripture readings, Come and See devotional guides are available on⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

• 00:00–04:54 | Intro & Personal Banter

  The group welcomes listeners and shares humorous stories about diets, protein intake, sewing curtains, and domestic misadventures.

• 04:54–05:34 | Week 7 Overview

  Preview of biblical topics: the woman caught in adultery, “I Am” statements, and the Good Samaritan.

• 05:34–10:36 | The Woman Caught in Adultery (John 8)

  Discussion on the Pharisees’ attempt to trap Jesus, the missing male adulterer, and Jesus’ measured response. Emphasis on mercy over condemnation.

• 10:36–14:29 | Spiritual Lessons from the Encounter

  Insights on Jesus’ approach to mercy, grace, and confronting sin lovingly. The importance of believers reflecting Christ’s grace instead of defaulting to judgment.

• 14:29–18:05 | Charles Stanley’s Forgiveness Message & Personal Reflections

  A story about Charles Stanley’s sermon with a rock as a forgiveness symbol, followed by group reflections on responding to sin through love.

• 18:05–23:05 | Condemnation vs. Confrontation in Love

  Discussion on three responses to sin: condemnation, condoning, or confronting in love. Personal stories of mentoring without judgment.

• 23:05–25:27 | Introduction to the Good Samaritan (Luke 10)

  Jesus’ dialogue with the publican about inheriting eternal life and what it means to “love your neighbor.”

• 25:27–28:44 | Different ‘Neighbors’ in the Parable

  Analysis of the roles of priest, Levite, Samaritan, innkeeper, and robbers, highlighting spiritual and practical implications.

• 28:44–33:07 | Personal Reflection & Application

  The group reflects on how the parable challenges believers to engage deeply and sacrificially in others’ messy lives.

• 33:07–36:06 | Disciple-Making & Real-Life Ministry

  Discusses the cost of real ministry—life-on-life involvement—and a humorous yet powerful metaphor about “goop” from VBS.

• 36:06–39:27 | Challenges in Showing Mercy Safely

  A story from downtown Atlanta illustrates the tension between helping others and setting healthy boundaries.

• 39:27–44:07 | Jesus as the Good Shepherd (John 10)

  Reflection on Jesus’ “I Am” statements, especially “I am the good shepherd,” and the importance of tuning into God’s voice daily.

• 44:07–45:32 | Hearing God’s Voice

  Anecdotes about spiritual impressions and the discipline of seeking God’s direction through Scripture and prayer.

• 45:32–50:00 | Prayer Requests & Closing Thoughts

  The group shares personal prayer needs, including health, family transitions, upcoming weddings, and ministry responsibilities.

• 50:00–50:46 | Final Prayer & Outro

  A closing prayer and encouragement to join for Week 8, with a reminder about the devotional journal resource.

In this sixth week of the “Come and See” series, the podcast team reflects on key moments from Jesus’ final months of ministry, especially after the disciples begin to recognize Him as God. They explore Jesus’ teaching that He is the Bread of Life, His challenging call to full surrender, and the powerful moment at Caesarea Philippi where Peter confesses Jesus as the Christ. The team discusses identity, the cost of discipleship, the difference between being a consumer versus a committed follower, and what it really means to carry our cross. Personal stories of hardship, identity crisis, and faith bring real-world context to Jesus’ radical call.

If you want to follow along with our daily scripture readings, Come and See devotional guides are available on⁠⁠⁠⁠ Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠.

00:00–03:02 – 🎙 Intro & Updates

The hosts share life updates, including family stories, weddings, and upcoming surgery plans.

03:02–04:59 – 🧎 Jesus as the Bread of Life

Reflection on John 6: Jesus’ teaching shifts from accessible to challenging as He tells followers they must “eat His flesh.”

04:59–06:08 – 😕 When the Teachings Get Hard

Jesus intentionally narrows the crowd by intensifying His message; the team compares this to modern seeker-friendly church models.

06:08–07:35 – 🌾 Separating Wheat from Chaff

Spiritual refinement through difficulty: many walk away when following Jesus becomes costly.

07:35–10:04 – 💪 The Cost of Discipleship

Discussion on effort, sacrifice, and dependence on the Holy Spirit rather than human strength to live the Christian life.

10:04–12:22 – 🍞 True Satisfaction in Christ

What it means to desire Jesus more than daily food—He alone is the source of lasting fulfillment.

12:22–14:00 – ⚒️ Finding Identity Beyond Vocation

Testimonies on misplaced identity in jobs, and rediscovering value in being a follower of Christ.

14:00–16:24 – 🪞 Living with a Christ-Centered Identity

The importance of defining ourselves by our relationship with Jesus, not career or status.

16:24–19:15 – 🌍 For God So Loved Everyone

Reflection on the feeding of the 5,000 (Jews) and 4,000 (Gentiles) and what the disciples missed: Jesus’ mission is global.

19:15–21:21 – ✝️ Mission Beyond the Miracle

Miracles don’t always produce belief; Jesus refocuses the disciples on their mission to reach all people.

21:21–24:19 – 🏔️ Caesarea Philippi – “Who Do You Say I Am?”

Contextual background on this powerful location where Peter declares Jesus is the Christ amidst a backdrop of false gods.

24:19–26:02 – 🚪 Gates of Hell Will Not Prevail

Jesus’ declaration takes place at a site literally known as “the gates of hell,” emphasizing the authority of His Church.

26:02–29:14 – 🎒 Carrying Your Own Cross

Powerful metaphor and personal story about what it means to carry the cross God gives you—not someone else’s.

29:14–32:15 – 🧒 Parenting & Special Needs Perspective

How trials like parenting a special needs child shape faith and reveal God’s grace in the burdens we’re called to carry.

32:15–34:14 – 🩺 Facing Loss & Suffering with Hope

Example of a man with cancer who carried his burden in a way that gave hope to others.

34:14–36:39 – ⚔️ Wake Up, You’re in a Battle

The Christian life is not a cruise ship but a battleship. Faith must be resilient and awake in the face of opposition.

36:39–37:03 – 💡 Transfiguration Insight: Fully Awake

“When they became fully awake, they saw His glory.” A call to spiritual alertness.

37:03–39:13 – 🙏 Prayer Requests

Prayer for VBS, a friend recovering from a motorcycle accident, upcoming surgery, and personal family needs.

39:13–41:02 – 📚 Closing Prayer & Outro

Joey closes in prayer, committing burdens to God and asking for faith that endures. Wrap-up and encouragement to continue the devotional study.