Jake talks about the difference between perfection and purity/innocence/sinlessness, and why it should matter to believers. The main takeaway -- that Jesus was made perfect through what he suffered (i.e. temptations), and so are we. We should not believe that anything is wrong with us when we are being tempted, but rather, that the temptation is the very opportunity to grow in faith and mature beyond it. Moreover, our hope is greater than just not sinning. It is to bear the FRUIT of righteousness, peace, and joy, where the same things no longer even tempt us. 

Jake's friend and guest, Mark McKnelly, explains what he learned about the gospel that changed his life, even after years of preaching and leading in the Church. He then gives an overview of an 8-week curriculum, which centers around walking by faith, that he developed for the purposes of discipleship in his restoration ministry.

Mark's book (which is unrelated to the subject of this podcast) is called "Change for the Poor: A Guide to Restoring Lives with Those in Material and Relational Poverty"

Jake gives a brief update on his and Marcus' lives, explaining some changes that have occurred. Then he reorients us back to the hope of the gospel and what this show is all about. 

**Update/Correction -- The scripture Jake was quoting was not in 1 Corinthians 15. It is this: "For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth." (2 Corinthians 13:8)

Why isn't the truth setting you free like Jesus said it would (John 8:32)?

Marcus and Jake talk about one of the most common pitfalls in the Christian life, which you'll want to make sure to avoid. It is possible to "know" the truth without really knowing it.

... The answer may surprise you! 

Pastors discuss a commonly misunderstood belief about our identity in Christ.

There is a huge difference between being 'like' Jesus and being 'in' Jesus. The former phrase is found almost nowhere in Scripture, the latter over two hundred times.

Does sin originate from our heart or elsewhere? Do we truly desire sin or holiness? 

Marcus & Jake discuss the power of the gospel, an ancient way of thinking, a little about sanctification, and a lot about faith!


Memory verse: Romans 6:11 -- “You, therefore, must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.”


**NOTE: Audio of this episode has been re-uploaded. All vocals are now clearly heard over the background music.

Marcus & Jake make some big claims about the Gospel and share their stories in this introductory episode of the No Longer I Podcast. 

Check out Jake's book on Amazon!

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