Welcome back to the Patterns of Truth podcast — we’re diving into one of life’s most powerful questions: Who am I?

It’s a question we’ve all wrestled with at some point, and for believers, it carries a deeper weight. As life changes, we may question our identities completely. Am I still a sinner, or am I something new? Does my past define me? What does it mean to have an identity in Christ?

For those who are not saved, we challenge you to consider your identity: a sinner, on your way to a Christless eternity. More specifically, what that means is eternal suffering and separation from God in a conscious state for eternity. This is not what the Lord intended – listen to the call of the Gospel. Good news that the Son of God was born as a baby, grew into a Man, fully man, fully God, and died on the Cross to pay a price you could not pay. Your Sin was condemned, and your sins were paid for; accept the free gift of salvation and have a new identity today: new creation in Christ. 

In this episode, we’re going to unpack what the Bible says about who you really are — not who the world says you are, not who your mistakes say you are — but who God says you are.

So whether you’ve just started your faith journey or you’ve been walking with Jesus for years, this conversation is for you.

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This episode comes as a lecture from one of our regular contributors. Aaron (the speaker in this lecture) takes up the question, Is truth captured or held in creeds and traditions? We think this is a very important question because we are seeing more return to traditions and rituals in our Christian circles. Aaron does something interesting. Instead of answering the question, he starts by looking at the scripture and what it tells us or reveals about God, and God the Son.

Along the way, he compares historic creeds like the Apostles’ Creed and Nicene Creed with the “whole counsel of God” found in the Bible. Are these man-made statements helpful, or do they risk missing the fullness of God’s revelation? Aaron emphasizes that while creeds can summarize aspects of truth, only Scripture itself is living, active, and able to transform hearts.

This episode challenges us to seek truth not in human constructions but in the Word of God, which remains forever.

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Welcome to another episode of Patterns of Truth — a podcast where we explore challenging questions through the lens of Scripture.

We’ve got a big topic on the table: Calvinism.

In today’s episode, we’ll be unpacking the major ideas behind the five points of Calvinism — commonly remembered by the acronym TULIP. But what do those points actually mean? And what does Scripture have to say about them?

We recently published an article on this topic: A brief review of Calvinism: TULIP, or not TULIP?, but we thought it would be helpful to bring the authors Roy and Aaron and expand on it further and address some questions our audience might have.

Before we dive in, a quick disclaimer: our guests today aren’t professional theologians or scholars — we’re simply believers aiming to examine this topic carefully and biblically.

Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or fully on board, we’re really glad you’re here. Check out the article that sparked the discussion:

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“Covenant Theology” is a term that more and more Christians are encountering in the mainstream on various platforms. What should we think of it? Is Covenant Theology new? Is it old? And what exactly is it? The same questions can be applied to “Dispensations.” Are covenants at odds with dispensations?

Maybe you’re thinking: why does this even matter? Isn’t this topic for theological students and shouldn’t “regular Christians” just stick to the point? Understanding Covenant Theology and Dispensations directly impacts how we read the Bible, understand our places as Christians, and, even, how we address God in prayer. Each one of us must study and know what’s in God’s word.

 In today’s episode, join host Patricia and guests Roy, Peter, Nate, and Daniel as they discuss what Covenant Theology is, what it isn’t, what Dispensational Truth is, and what it isn’t; tackling the challenges and misconceptions surrounding these theological frameworks along the way. This podcast will not be an exhaustive conversation of each detail and the ins and outs of both Covenant Theology and Dispensational Truth. 

 Remember that understanding these theological frameworks is crucial for accurately interpreting Scripture. In a world filled with diverse ideas and influences, it’s vital to cut through the noise and uncover what the Bible truly says. Our primary focus should always be on understanding God’s Word in its proper context, remembering that His ways are not our ways.

Keep studying and searching the Scriptures!

We’d love to hear from you! If you have additional questions about this topic, visit us at patternsoftruth.org and click on the Q&A button to “Ask a Question.”

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Fear—irrational, circumstantial, or deeply rooted—is something we all face. In this episode of the Patterns of Truth podcast, Patricia is joined by Roy, Bethel, and Peter for a heartfelt and faith-filled conversation about the top three fears they’re currently facing, how those fears have changed over time, and what the Bible has to say about anxiety, trust, and spiritual peace.

From fears of failure, loneliness, and death, to anxiety about health, flying, or FOMO, this discussion cover personal stories and Biblical truth. Together, the hosts explore whether anxiety is sinful, how to distinguish between emotional and spiritual fear, and how believers can biblically process overwhelming emotions while trusting in God’s promises.

Whether you’re battling fear in silence or just curious about how faith intersects with emotional well-being, this episode is a relatable, encouraging, and a timely listen.

Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Lean into God’s promises, open up to trusted community, and don’t be afraid to seek help. Whether you’re facing emotional, circumstantial, or spiritual fears, peace is possible through Christ.

Want more encouragement on difficult topics?
Visit PatternsOfTruth.org to explore thoughtful, biblical answers to real-life questions.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with a friend who needs biblical encouragement!

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There’s conversion but then there’s the training ground…

…how do we live?

Today we’re going to talk about embracing opportunities for discipleship in our Christian lives. What is it and how does it happen? Discipleship is not just a concept; it should be an integral part of our lives as believers and it requires vulnerability, accountability, and intentional sacrifice. Most importantly, discipleship requires us to have our eyes focused on the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Some questions we’ll be looking at today:

What is a disciple? 

How do we participate in discipleship alongside other believers?

Why is it so difficult for us to disciple/be disciples if it’s supposed to be “the norm” for us?

How d we seek out discipleship when things are good? When things are bad?

How does “disciple-making” happen?

How can I mentor someone spiritually?

How is sharing the Gospel part of discipleship?

Let’s remember that discipleship isn’t just a program or a checklist; it’s an opportunity to walk alongside other Christians, to get, and to give help as we grow closer to the Lord in every way. 

Make the effort to be open and to be real. Discipleship isn’t about putting on a facade – it’s about being vulnerable and allowing others to walk alongside you. Don’t worry if you feel nervous – that’s perfectly normal! Look around at mature Believers in your vicinity and examine their lives. Don’t hesitate to ask the Lord to connect you with the right people who can guide and support you on your journey.

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In the “Politics…It’s Complicated” episode of the Patterns of Truth Podcast, host Patricia, along with panelists Roy, Peter, and Bethel, delve into the complexities of politics from a Christian perspective post the 2024 US election and 2025 inauguration.

The discussion isn’t about promoting or critiquing any politician but exploring how believers should approach politics. They define government, both from a secular and biblical viewpoint, referencing scriptures like Romans 13 and 1 Timothy 2, and acknowledge the variety of government systems Christians might encounter worldwide, from democracy to theocracy.

The panel discusses the idea of political neutrality, the Christian’s relationship with power, and how to handle fear in a politically charged environment. They explore whether it’s permissible for Christians to engage in politics for personal or communal benefit, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a heavenly perspective amidst earthly matters. The conversation also touches on God’s sovereignty over rulers, and government.

They conclude by addressing how to cope with the varied impacts of political decisions and encourage listeners to pray for political wisdom and for those under oppressive regimes. For more reflections, visit patternsoftruth.org.

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Welcome to another episode of the Patterns of Truth Podcast! Krista, Roy, and Peter join our host Patricia to have a conversation about growing pains.

Often, we think of literal growing pains in adolescence or metaphorical “growing pains” as we figure ourselves out in our 20s. You might think growing pains are something we leave behind in our teenage years. But the reality is that, as adults, we often face new and unexpected challenges that test our faith, relationships, emotions, and careers. 

Does spiritual growth ever peak? How do relationships with those around us affect our growing pains?

Can someone give me some practical tips for navigating my growing pains?

Through the insights, experiences, and, most importantly, Scripture shared by those who joined us today, we can be encouraged to know that no matter our age, we are not alone in our growing pains. We’re all in this process of constantly striving for understanding and clarity in God’s word. 

Remember, spiritual growth never ends. Even when we face doubts, questions, and moments of spiritual dryness, God’s Word reminds us that we are continually being shaped and matured in our faith.

We hope this conversation has made you think, stirred your curiosity, and will encourage you to open up this discussion with others. Our goal at Patterns of Truth is simple: to inspire meaningful conversations and foster growth in our relationship with the Lord.

 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, share it with friends, and leave us a review. Until next time, keep growing, stay faithful, and remember that every growing pain is an opportunity to bring forth new fruit in your life.

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When you think of good Christian fun, several things might come to mind: youth group, mini golf, bowling, ping pong, and Bananagrams. There’s nothing wrong with any of those things. Still, today’s episode is about the wide diversity of hobbies, leisure, and adventurous activities that real Christians engage in to keep life interesting. At the same time, we look for the Lord’s return and balance work, faith, and family life.

How do issues like being overly busy or feeling guilty impact our ability to prioritize enjoyment?
Guilt – “Redeeming the time” (Ephesians 5:16) – If you have spare time, how should it be spent? Is it wise to spend it on entertainment? Or something else?
Guilt – “The pride of life” – Am I investing too much into entertainment and the things of this life?

One takeaway I have from this conversation is that everything we do in this life should not be centered around work, career, or advancement. Yes, we have to live, but our relationship with the Lord, fellowship with others, and what we do during “downtime” are so important.

As always, we must use biblical principles to navigate our Christian walk. Be happy – enjoy your life! When considering an activity or hobby you’re unsure about, ask the Lord to help you evaluate it!

Thanks again for joining us at the Patterns of Truth podcast! Our goal is simple: to inspire meaningful dialogue and foster spiritual growth in our relationship with the Lord. Tell others about the podcast and submit your questions!

• Are You Trying Too Hard? How to Balance Discipline and Dependence in the Christian Life

The post Popular Myth: Christians Have No Fun in Life appeared first on Patterns of Truth.

Why was Satan allowed in the garden?

The description of the creation of Adam and Eve in Genesis chapter 2 is followed immediately by the appearance of Satan at the very beginning of chapter 3. Verse 8 of chapter 3 gives the further impression that God was accustomed to visiting Adam and Eve in the evening. Putting this together gives the distinct impression that the appearance of Satan was very soon, if not immediately after Adam and Eve were placed in the garden. This brings to mind the account of Satan coming before God in the book of Job (Job 2:1-2). There it was God Himself who brought Job to Satan’s attention, which led to Job’s trial. 

In contrast, the story of Elisha mocking the prophets of Baal, “he is on a journey, or perhaps he is asleep and must be awakened” (1 Kings 18:27), is humorous because we know that the true God is never “asleep” (Ps. 121:3-4) or inattentive to the events in His creation. So, we must realize that it was in God’s sovereign wisdom and will that Satan tempted Adam and Eve. He knew what would happen. In fact, as we will see, Eden was not God’s purpose for Adam and Eve. They were actually better off after the Fall. Just as Job had a necessary lesson to learn, God had a far higher purpose for mankind than to dwell in Eden. (1 Corinthians 2:9)

God’s purpose in creation can be seen by considering 1 Corinthians 15:46 with Acts 2:23 and John 12:24. In these verses we read,  “But it is not the spiritual that is first but the natural, and then the spiritual.” To provide the basis for this “new creation” we read “ Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” and “this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God.” So we see from this that God’s purpose from the beginning, even before creation, was the redemption of mankind, not sustaining them in a perfect garden on this Earth. This purpose finds its resolution in the New Jerusalem and the New Heaven and Earth. 

The garden was certainly “pleasant” as the name “Eden” means. In Eden, everything considered desirable for life was provided: food, a place to live, companionship, fellowship with God, purpose, and useful work in an idyllic environment.  For Adam and Eve, it was a witness of God’s goodness and thus exaggerates the lie of Satan that God was withholding something good from them. Their disobedience showed the weakness of their condition. Their failure represented the general failure of mankind. But, it provided the opportunity for God to reveal the redemption plan that was to be the basis of a permanent relationship with God. It is very important to realize that Adam and Eve were actually better off after the fall than being in the garden. In the garden, their relationship to God was based on a legal principle; whereas after the fall, God provides the promise of redemption, and their subsequent relationship with God is based on grace accepted by faith. In addition, the world they were thrust into was the perfect training ground for them as sinners. As Paul learned, he needed the thorn. (2 Corinthians 12:7–10)

Rather it was for them to trust his grace

So, it is not surprising that the record shows that Satan was allowed to immediately enter the garden to tempt Adam and Eve. Certainly, God could have prevented this but it was not his plan to keep Adam and Eve sequestered in a protected garden. Rather it was for them to trust his grace, living a life in a world that was contrary to their old nature, and learn the goodness of God in the face of trial. This provided the necessary discipline to instruct them in the ways of God’s grace and learn dependence in the face of their own frailty. It is important to recall here that it is the glory of the Lord Jesus, as Son of Man, to walk in the creature’s place. This would have an immeasurable reward. 

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