Redux Church

In this episode of the podcast, host Wayne Heins and Jeremy Griffin explore the book of Acts and specifically focus on chapter 16. The conversation begins with lighthearted banter and a discussion about the beauty of nature and the simple joys of everyday life.

Wayne then transitions to the biblical text and reads and discusses verses 1-5. This passage describes Paul's encounter with Timothy and highlights the significance of Timothy's mixed heritage as a symbol of unity between Jews and Gentiles in the early Christian movement. They delve into Paul's decision to have Timothy circumcised, not as a requirement for salvation but as a way to avoid offending Jewish believers. This demonstrates Paul's sensitivity to cultural contexts and his desire to remove potential stumbling blocks. They also examine how the churches continued to grow and remain united despite differing opinions on non-essential matters.

Moving on to verses 6-10, Wayne and Jeremy explore the narrative in which the Holy Spirit directs Paul and his companions away from Asia and toward Macedonia through a vision. They discuss the active role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and directing the mission and draw attention to the need for patience and preparation in responding to a calling. They emphasize the importance of discerning both the broader purpose and the specific directions or "GPS" that God provides.

The episode concludes with an examination of verses 11-15, which detail Paul's arrival in Philippi and the conversion of Lydia. Wayne and Jeremy discuss the group's sensitivity to finding spaces conducive to ministry and highlight Lydia's status as a woman of means and her openness to the gospel message. Lydia's response, including being baptized with her household and insisting that Paul and his companions stay at her home, is seen as a powerful example of someone whose heart has been opened by the Lord to receive the gospel.

Throughout the discussion, Wayne and Jeremy draw parallels between the biblical narrative and modern-day experiences. They underscore the importance of discerning God's calling, being attentive to His guidance, and remaining open to the work of the Holy Spirit in drawing people to Him, regardless of their social or economic status. Listeners can expect to gain insights on how these biblical teachings can be applied in their own lives and ministries.

In this podcast episode, hosts Wayne Heins and Jeremy Griffin delve into Acts chapter 15, exploring the dispute over whether Gentile believers need to follow the Mosaic law. They use the analogy of a mountain to illustrate how believers may have different paths but ultimately converge at a deeper understanding and relationship with God. The hosts emphasize the importance of worship as a natural response to God's greatness and vastness.

The hosts then focus on the letter sent by the apostles and elders to the Gentile believers, highlighting the wise and gracious approach taken by the church leaders. They discuss the importance of clear communication and maintaining unity within the body of Christ.

The episode also addresses the division between Paul and Barnabas regarding taking John Mark on their next missionary journey. The hosts note that this moment reflects the ongoing growth and maturation process in the lives of believers. They stress the significance of understanding the context and timeline of Paul's life and teachings.

Additionally, the hosts emphasize the primary focus on one's personal relationship with God, which then informs and shapes one's ministry and service. They encourage listeners to seek God's revelation, understand its implications, and apply it in their lives.

The episode concludes with a prayer, asking God to continue His work in the listeners' lives, guiding them towards maturity and effectiveness in their walk with Him.

In this episode, the hosts dive into Acts chapter 15, a significant moment in the early church. The debate between the Pharisees and Paul and Barnabas regarding whether Gentile converts needed to be circumcised and follow the Mosaic law to be saved is the central focus.

The apostles and elders gather in Jerusalem to address this issue, and Peter argues that the Gentiles have been accepted by God through faith alone, without the need for circumcision or adherence to the Mosaic law. To strengthen their point, Barnabas and Paul share the signs and wonders that God has performed among the Gentiles through their ministry.

James, the brother of Jesus, agrees with Peter's assessment and uses references from the prophets to demonstrate that including the Gentiles aligns with God's plan. The council ultimately decides not to burden the Gentile converts with strict requirements but asks them to abstain from certain practices associated with pagan worship.

The hosts then delve into how this transition from the old covenant to the new covenant of grace reflects the tendency of religion to add rules and regulations. They emphasize that Christianity is primarily centered around building a relationship with God, rather than just religious observance. They share their own perspectives on church attendance, tithing, and the importance of listening and obeying God's voice rather than seeking a new charismatic leader.

Overall, this episode highlights the pivotal shift in the early church from Judaism to a grace-based faith that welcomes all people, irrespective of their background, through faith in Christ alone. It delves into the significance of this transition and the implications it has on the practice of Christianity today.

In this episode, Wayne Heins and Jeremy Griffin dive into chapter 14:19-23 of the book of Acts. They discuss the incredible story of Paul being stoned by Jews in Lystra and left for dead. They highlight the irony of fate, as Paul had witnessed Timothy being stoned years earlier. This serves as a powerful reminder that nothing can stop God's plans, and even in the face of extreme adversity, Paul rose up and continued preaching the next day.

The hosts emphasize the importance of perseverance and resilience in fulfilling God's calling. They encourage believers to continue in their faith despite tribulations, as it is through difficulties that one strengthens their faith and enters into God's kingdom. They explore the appointment of elders in the churches and how this establishment of leadership plays a crucial role in guiding and supporting believers.

Wayne and Jeremy also emphasize the significance of ongoing discipleship and encouragement. They discuss how Paul and Barnabas returned to strengthen believers, highlighting the importance of staying connected and supporting one another in the faith journey.

Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of giving God the credit for all the work done. They discuss how Paul and Barnabas reported all that God had done with them to the church in Antioch, recognizing that their identity was in God, not in their accomplishments.

In conclusion, Wayne encourages listeners to finish the work that God has given them. He urges them not to wait idly but to see missions through to completion, just like Paul and Barnabas did. The podcast provides a detailed summary and analysis of Paul's perseverance, the role of suffering in the Christian life, and the importance of fulfilling one's God-given purpose rather than seeking self-promotion.

Wayne and Jeremy discuss Acts 14, focusing on verses 1-7 in the first half and verses 8-18 in the second half.

In the first section, they reflect on how Paul and Barnabas were able to speak in a way that both Jews and Greeks (religious and non-religious people) believed. Wayne notes the importance of not just using "Christianese" but speaking plainly. They discuss how to talk about faith to unbelievers in an understandable way.

They also note that even though the apostles faced opposition from unbelieving Jews, they continued speaking boldly by God's power and saw signs and wonders. Wayne questions if he speaks boldly enough for God.

In the second section, they discuss the healing of the crippled man in Lystra. Jeremy notes how people often want to elevate or repay religious leaders, thinking it gets them favor with God. They both see parallels to Jesus' temptation, where he refused to use his power for his own benefit.

Paul and Barnabas reject the people's sacrifice to them as gods. They declare they are just men who bring good news of the living God. Jeremy notes how easy it is for humans to take credit the longer a process takes, when really God deserves all glory.

Wayne closes by saying they are just "spark plugs" through which God works, having no power or hope to give on their own. Jeremy prays they would all continue having revelations from God's word and applying it to grow closer to him.

In this episode of the podcast, Wayne and Jeremy dive into Acts 13 and conclude their study of this chapter. They begin by encouraging listeners to spend time in worship and allow God to speak to their hearts, emphasizing the cleansing effect of worship. Jeremy shares his personal experience of having his feet washed by others only a few times.

The hosts then discuss where listeners can find worship music, mentioning popular platforms such as Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube. Wayne shares that his wife often plays old black gospel music by artists like CC Winans on YouTube in the mornings.

Moving on to the scripture passage, Wayne and Jeremy read Acts 13:26-40. They focus on Paul's address to the Jews in the synagogue, where he emphasizes that their law cannot save them, but only Jesus can. Paul recounts Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and appearances to the disciples, affirming that God has fulfilled his promises through raising Jesus.

The hosts highlight Paul's boldness and clarity in his speech, attributing it to his direct encounters with God, particularly his experience on the road to Damascus and in prayer meetings where God spoke to him. They note that this confidence is not driven by emotion or religious fervor.

Wayne and Jeremy reflect on how the conversation between Paul and the Jews came about because Paul and Barnabas were invited to encourage them. However, Paul ends up convicting them instead, which Jeremy compares to an evangelist being invited to speak but rebuking the congregation.

Continuing with the scripture passage, Paul declares that forgiveness comes through Jesus, not Moses' law. Many Jews and God-fearing Gentiles believe after hearing Paul's message. Unfortunately, jealous Jews stir up persecution against Paul and Barnabas.

The hosts delve into the obedience and divine mandate that Paul and Barnabas received through prayer, highlighting that they did not seek out a platform but faithfully delivered the message God gave them, without adding or subtracting from it.

The passage concludes with Paul and Barnabas being driven out of the district, but they continue to spread the word with joy. Wayne and Jeremy end the episode with a prayer.

Overall, this episode explores Acts 13, focusing on Paul's boldness in proclaiming the message of Jesus, the response of the Jews, and the persecution faced by Paul and Barnabas. The hosts provide insights into the importance of worship and obedience in carrying out God's mandate.

In this episode of the podcast, Wayne and Jeremy continue their study of the book of Acts, specifically focusing on chapter 13 verses 1-25. They begin by reading the passage, which highlights events in the early church in Antioch. The passage mentions prominent figures like Barnabas and Saul and describes how the Holy Spirit called them to a specific work. After fasting and prayer, the church sends them off with the laying on of hands.

During their travels to Cyprus, Barnabas and Saul encounter a Jewish false prophet named Bar-Jesus, who opposes their message. Saul, also known as Paul, is filled with the Holy Spirit and rebukes Bar-Jesus, prophesying that he will be temporarily blinded. This astonishing event leads the proconsul Sergius Paulus to believe in their message.

Wayne and Jeremy discuss the way Paul addresses Bar-Jesus, noting that he speaks to him in a way that he would understand as a magician. However, they emphasize that this passage should not be seen as a license to curse others today. Paul's actions were guided by a calling and confirmation from the Spirit and the church, and the fruit of his rebuke was the proconsul's belief.

Additionally, the passage describes how Paul and Barnabas continue to travel and preach in synagogues. When given the opportunity to speak, Paul provides a detailed recounting of God's dealings with Israel over hundreds of years, setting the context for his message. This detailed account serves as a credential to show that Paul is not speaking flippantly before challenging their beliefs.

Wayne and Jeremy highlight the significance of the long timespan Paul outlines, approximately 450 years, to illustrate the need for patience as God works out His purposes. They note that this perspective can help with modern impatience, as our struggles may seem significant to us but are just a part of God's larger plan unfolding over generations.

In conclusion, Wayne and Jeremy pray that listeners may gain perspective outside of their own circumstances, recognizing God's sovereignty and joining in the larger work He is doing through all believers around the world.

In this episode of the podcast, Wayne Heins and Jeremy Griffin delve into chapter 12 of Acts. Before diving into the passage, they take a moment to reflect on their recent lunch experience at Claire Bell's restaurant in Oklahoma City, where Jeremy had the pleasure of enjoying delicious homemade sauerkraut and punch.

The passage they discuss revolves around the events surrounding Herod the king's violent actions against the church. He had James killed and arrested Peter, placing him under the watchful eyes of four squads of guards. However, despite the dire circumstances, the church came together in fervent prayer for Peter's release.

In a remarkable turn of events, Peter finds himself bound with chains and sleeping between two soldiers when an angel appears before him. The angel frees Peter from his chains and instructs him to get dressed and follow. Together, they navigate through the guards and the iron gate leading to the city, which miraculously opens on its own.

Upon arriving at Mary's house, where the church was praying, Peter's appearance initially surprises the believers. Only after opening the gate do they realize that it is indeed Peter. Peter instructs them to inform James and the other brothers about his rescue before departing.

Meanwhile, Herod's search for Peter proves futile. The soldiers responsible for letting Peter escape face severe consequences, as Herod has them killed. Adding to Herod's troubles, the people of Tyre and Sidon approach him, seeking peace as they rely on his country for food. In a gathering, the people mistakenly hail Herod as a god. However, their misconception is immediately corrected when an angel of the Lord strikes Herod down, and he is ultimately consumed by worms, leading to his demise.

Despite the hardships faced by the church and the persecution they endure, the word of God continues to spread and multiply. Barnabas and Saul return from Jerusalem with John Mark, contributing to this growth. Wayne highlights the historical significance of times of persecution often leading to an increase in the word of God, urging listeners to find solace in God during times of bondage, just as Peter did. Jeremy offers a relatable analogy of waiting for water to boil before adding potatoes.

In a prophetic declaration, Wayne predicts that revival will come to India. The episode concludes with a prayer, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's guidance and resting in Him during challenging times.

In this episode of the podcast, Jeremy Griffin explores the idea of failure as not just something to avoid, but as a requirement for growth and success. He introduces the phrase "failure is not an option, it's a requirement" and acknowledges that others may have said it too.

Drawing on personal experiences and scientific discoveries, Jeremy emphasizes that many valuable lessons and breakthroughs come from mistakes and failures. He uses the example of the game Mastermind to illustrate how each failed guess teaches the player something to bring them closer to the solution.

Jeremy also references a line from the movie The Core, where a commander tells an astronaut they are not ready for command because they have never failed. This highlights the importance of failure in developing resilience and learning from our shortcomings.

Throughout the episode, Jeremy encourages listeners to embrace failure as an opportunity for growth and learning. He shares a personal story from his teenage years, where he failed to obey God's prompting to pray for someone, but learned the importance of humility through that experience.

Listeners are invited to reach out to Jeremy to further discuss this topic and are encouraged to explore other podcasts on the Redux Church network for more powerful content, particularly the scriptural podcast. The episode ends with Jeremy wishing listeners God's blessings and saying goodbye.

In this episode, Wayne and Jeremy dive deeper into Acts chapter 11, building off of their previous discussion. Jeremy expresses his appreciation for the process of studying scripture, explaining how it often challenges his preconceived notions and reveals new truths that he hadn't previously believed.

The main focus of their conversation revolves around the significant development in Antioch, where believers from Cyprus and Cyrene began preaching to Greeks, thus expanding the spread of the gospel beyond just Jews to Gentiles. This momentous event in Antioch led to the believers being called "Christians" for the first time, a term that holds great importance in the foundation of the modern church.

Barnabas, sent from Jerusalem, is tasked with investigating what is happening in Antioch. Pleased with the situation, he encourages the believers and goes on a journey to find Saul, also known as Paul. Barnabas, acting as a mentor, guides Paul and teaches in Antioch for an entire year. Wayne provides clarity on Paul's story up to this point, explaining how his Damascus road experience in Acts 9 marked a turning point in his life.

The importance of mentorship is a recurring theme in their conversation, with Barnabas serving as a prime example. They discuss the significance of mentors being willing to see their mentees grow and even surpass their own abilities, rather than hindering their progress out of pride. Barnabas's mentorship extends beyond just Paul to include John Mark as well.

Wayne highlights a key point in Acts 11 where the believers in Judea, who once rejected Gentiles, now find themselves aided by these very same Gentiles in a time of famine. This serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative nature of faith and the ways in which our perspectives can change over time.

In their closing remarks, Wayne and Jeremy emphasize the value of finding satisfaction in obedience and embracing the unique calling that God has for each individual. Rather than comparing ourselves to others or measuring success by external standards, they encourage listeners to follow Barnabas's example of faithfully encouraging and mentoring others on their own spiritual journeys.