Mid Tree Church

Marriage, divorce, and remarriage—what do these mean through the lens of scripture? Today, we dive into exploration of these deeply personal topics, framed by the teachings of Jesus as captured in Luke 16. We invite you to reflect on your own experiences with divorce and the profound spiritual insights presented in the Bible. How does stewardship and trust in God intersect with the sanctity of marriage? Join us as we uncover the answers together.

We journey through the societal and religious contexts of Jesus' time, delving into his responses to the Pharisees’ questions about divorce. We expose the misuse of divorce certificates for personal gain, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the sanctity of marriage. With examples from dowries to marital laws, we highlight the exploitation and selfishness that can pervade relationships, urging listeners to recognize marriage as a divine act of stewardship. Every detail matters to God, and this episode underscores His profound care for every aspect of our lives, especially in marriage.

Maintaining a Christian faith amid cultural influences is no small feat, but it's essential for a fulfilling marital relationship. Through biblical narratives like Hosea’s story and the encounter of Jesus with the Samaritan woman, we illustrate themes of forgiveness and transformation. Whether married or single, we encourage you to embrace God’s grace, make righteous decisions, and reflect your faith in daily life.

How can a seemingly dishonest act teach us about faith and trust in God? This episode unpacks one of Jesus' most perplexing parables: the story of the shrewd manager. We dissect the intricate narrative where a manager, fired for mismanagement, uses cunning strategies to secure his future. By understanding this parable, listeners gain insights into human nature, the importance of accountability, and the eternal impact of our choices. Dive deep with us into Jesus' teachings on resource stewardship, trust, and wisdom.

Ever wondered why Jesus would commend a dishonest manager? Join us as we explore various scholarly interpretations and theories behind this puzzling commendation. Whether it’s about improving his master's reputation or strategic planning for future favor, we discuss the ethical complexities and pragmatic commendability of the manager's actions. We draw parallels between this parable and other biblical stories, such as the parable of the ten virgins, highlighting the importance of shrewdness and foresight in preparing for a righteous future.

In our final segment, we shift our focus to the broader themes of stewardship and eternal impact. We emphasize that generosity is not just a sacrifice but an investment in eternity, encouraging faithful actions in our daily lives. The metaphor of a tree planted by water illustrates our need to be deeply rooted in faith, finding sustenance in God's love. Through prayer and genuine faith, we invite you to embrace Christ's redemptive work and live out your faith authentically, promising eternal rewards and spiritual fulfillment. Join us for this enriching journey of understanding and faith.

Are you prepared to face the true cost of discipleship? Join us as we unpack the profound teachings of Jesus in Luke 14:25-35 and John 6:65, where we highlight the significant commitment required to follow Christ. We delve into the necessity of careful planning and dedication in our spiritual journey, and personal stories that underscore the importance of thoughtful preparation and intentionality in all aspects of life, mirroring the depth of commitment needed to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.

In this episode, we take on Jesus' challenging statements about prioritizing our devotion to God above all other relationships and commitments, even when it means making hard choices. We explore what it means to "hate" one's family and oneself in a metaphorical sense, shedding light on the radical commitment Jesus demands from his disciples. Our discussion goes beyond the surface, examining the weight of carrying one's cross, whether it's sharing faith with colleagues, overcoming personal vices, or remaining steadfast in difficult relationships. 

Amidst the trials of discipleship, we also find the beauty and joy in following Christ. Highlighting biblical symbolism and references from Ezekiel and Judges, we discuss how God cleanses us and assures us of His judgment over our sins. We draw encouragement from the promise of ultimate joy and glory found in Christ, who reigns over all things. If you're seeking peace and strength in your spiritual journey, embark on this episode with us as we offer practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement for intentional faith planning and commitment.

Does true honor come from our own ambitions, or is it something bestowed upon us through humility? Join us as we dissect the profound lessons of humility and generosity derived from Luke 14:1-11. We'll challenge you to examine the balance between pride, wealth, self-assurance, and humility in your life, and engage in a practical self-assessment exercise designed to reveal which traits resonate most with you.

In our exploration of the parable of choosing seats at a wedding feast, we underscore the significance of placing others before ourselves. Jesus’ teachings to His disciples about serving rather than seeking greatness are spotlighted, urging us to extend generosity without expectations.

Lastly, we delve into the spiritual invitation to God's table, stressing the importance of responding with humility and focusing on the deeper messages behind miraculous events. Reflect on the joyous and inclusive nature of God's grace, as we revisit the man with dropsy at the dinner party and the celebratory message of Nehemiah 8. Through this episode, we invite you to embrace humility, recognize the divine gifts in your life, and rejoice in the strength and joy that comes from understanding and living God's word.

What if the mission of your faith was a lifelong journey that began long before you were born and continues into eternity? In today's episode, we explore this profound idea by distinguishing between "mission" and "missions" within the Christian faith. Join us as Will, our lead pastor, Thomas, our youth pastor, and David Blanchard, the leader of our missions team, offer their unique perspectives, drawing from Revelation 21 and Psalm 96. Discover how the joy and benefits of knowing the Lord should be our primary motivation for mission work, and why our ultimate goal is for all nations to be reconciled to God.

We hope you're inspired by real-life stories that illustrate the practical aspects of living out your faith daily. Reflecting on a mission trip to Kenya, we emphasize how simple acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, even in predominantly Muslim countries. Guided by Psalm 96, we discuss the importance of singing to the Lord and telling of His salvation every day. Learn how true discipleship requires daily engagement, and how your everyday actions can serve as powerful testimonies of Christian love and faithfulness.

Ever wondered how joy can become the driving force behind the Christian mission? Join us as we uncover the profound connection between happiness and spreading God's word. We'll dive into a humorous story about my pre-episode preparations that will have you chuckling before we explore what it truly means to joyfully expand God's kingdom. We will delve into the power of the Holy Spirit and how a deep enjoyment of God is essential for true evangelism. Our journey takes us through Revelation 21, where understanding our ultimate destination helps us face today's challenges with a renewed spirit of evangelism.

The imagery of the new Jerusalem and God's dwelling comes alive as we discuss the end of separation, darkness, and fear. I share a touching story about my young son, Emmett, to illustrate God's desire to dwell intimately with His people. This chapter paints a vivid picture of the church as the bride of Christ, worshiping together in perfect harmony, and highlights the comfort and care that come from God's ever-present love. We reflect on King David's story and the compelling message that God prefers to be among His people, emphasizing His accessibility and personal care, and explore the duality of His nature—both supreme and compassionate.

From a thrilling safari experience symbolizing Jesus as both the Lion and the Lamb to inspiring stories from a pastor's conference and church build in Kenya, our episode is rich with metaphors and real-life testimonies. You'll hear about a Muslim woman whose vivid dreams led her to newfound freedom in Christ, showcasing the transformative power of faith and evangelism. As we wrap up, we focus on the eternal hope and encouragement offered by Christ's sacrifice, urging listeners to embrace a renewed understanding of their faith and a deeper commitment to evangelism. This episode is a heartfelt call to recognize the eternal significance of every person we encounter and to live out our mission with joy and hope.

Join us as we read through Psalm 22:23-31

What if the greatest rescue mission ever conceived was unfolding right before our eyes? Join us as we uncover "The Story of Redemption" and witness how God orchestrates a divine plan to save humanity from the clutches of sin. Through the lens of Genesis, we reflect on the Fall and the profound necessity of redemption, driving home the point that living eternally in sin is a fate worse than death. Discover why no one seeks rescue from paradise, and why our ultimate need is for salvation from the darkness within.

Imagine being called to a mission that turns struggle into profound joy. In "Living Missionally," we grapple with our human limitations and celebrate God's mercy in giving us finite lifespans for the sake of protecting paradise. Learn why missional living should be seen as a thrilling opportunity rather than a dutiful obligation. We'll share insights on how embracing the mission of Christ can transform our daily lives and contribute to the grand tapestry of God's kingdom.

The journey doesn’t stop there. We dive into the stories of biblical giants in "Call to Mission and Blessing" and "The Mission of Moses." From Abraham's courageous journey to Moses' pivotal leadership, we explore the power of faith and obedience. Witness how small acts of devotion can lead to monumental outcomes, as illustrated in "Biblical Characters Following God's Call." Finally, "God's Mission and Believers' Response" and "The Promise of Blessing and Opportunity" invite you to reflect on the transformative power of trust in God's plans. Engage with us as we uncover the timeless lessons of purpose, faith, and divine blessing, and find your place in this enduring story.

Can you imagine being set free from 18 years of suffering with just a word? In today's episode, we unravel the profound story of Jesus healing a woman with a disabling spirit on the Sabbath, a moment that challenges traditional norms and emphasizes the power of compassion over rigid adherence to rules. Through this narrative, we reflect on the importance of recognizing our own brokenness and choosing joy over shame when encountering Christ's transformative power. By examining the woman's unwavering faith despite her prolonged struggles, we invite you to approach Christ with expectation and openness to spiritual renewal.

Witness the remarkable tension between Jesus and the synagogue ruler who criticizes His healing on the Sabbath, sparking a powerful discussion on the essence of compassion versus tradition. Jesus's response highlights His mission to liberate individuals from long-standing afflictions, challenging established norms and emphasizing the enduring message of love and liberation. We also share a touching story about Brian, a homeless man, illustrating how deep engagement with the Word of God fosters genuine compassion within a church community and showcases love in action.

Finally, we explore themes of faith, trust, and the transformative power of even the smallest amount of faith placed in Christ. Through humorous and poignant reflections, we draw parallels between investing in stocks and investing in faith, emphasizing the importance of where we place our trust. Reflecting on the steadfast love of God, we encourage a response of joy and gratitude for His goodness, inviting you to embrace faith, seek spiritual healing, and rejoice in God's unwavering love. Join us for this heartfelt episode that challenges, inspires, and offers a fresh perspective on faith and spiritual renewal.

What if you could truly let go of all your anxieties and trust in God's provision, even in the most turbulent times? Today, we explore Luke 12:22-32, where Jesus teaches us about the futility of anxiety and the boundless care of our Heavenly Father. We'll share a moving story about a tragic event and how it reinforced the message of God's sovereignty and the importance of seeking His kingdom first. This episode is a timely reminder from the Holy Spirit, especially relevant amid life's uncertainties.

As we tackle the pervasive issue of anxiety, we reflect on the profound wisdom from Jesus' teachings. Can faith and anxiety coexist? Through personal stories and real-life examples, such as a neighbor's potential break-in, we uncover how vigilance, trust, and community play pivotal roles in our spiritual journey. By engaging deeply with our spiritual gifts and responsibilities, we find that our anxiety diminishes as our sense of purpose and fulfillment grows.

In our final segments, we draw inspiration from nature and the simplicity of faith as small as lillies. Discover practical ways to overcome anxiety by focusing on God's abundant provision and the strength found in supportive relationships. We conclude with an invitation to embrace Christ's fellowship and live in joyous anticipation of His return. Tune in and be encouraged to let go of worry and embrace the peace that comes from trusting in God's eternal care.