Today’s episode kicks off with some exciting updates about what’s ahead for Resident Strangers—big things are coming, and you’ll literally see them soon! Sarah and Rich also take a moment to celebrate a huge milestone: Steve’s 30 years of ministry at Desert Springs. Considering the average tenure of a pastor at a single church is less than five years, this is truly remarkable. Steve and his wife, Tami, have been an incredible blessing, and we’re grateful for all that’s ahead in their ministry. After that, Rich and Steve dive into today’s topic—the second coming of Christ. Steve encourages listeners to read through Revelation 19 for a deeper understanding of the events surrounding His return. He also points out that when Jesus first came, many were confused because they expected Him to establish a new kingdom immediately. However, that kingdom will come with His second coming. Rich makes an interesting connection, noting that believers today may feel the same anticipation as those in Jesus’ time, eagerly awaiting His arrival. This should inspire us to live ready and expectant for Christ’s return. As always, Steve and Rich bring plenty of scripture to support their discussion, reminding us that the second coming of Christ is a reason for great joy and excitement. While Jesus has not yet arrived on the white horse, He stands with open arms, ready to embrace all who come to Him by faith.

For information on the November 2025 trip to Israel email Steve Engram at [email protected]

30th Anniversary Celebration for Pastor Steve + Tami (February 16th)

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“Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear and keep what is written in it, for the time is near.” — Revelation 1:3

Welcome back to another deep dive on Resident Strangers! The tribulation is a period of judgment on the earth, preparing the way for the coming kingdom of Jesus. How one understands this event largely depends on how the book of Revelation is read and interpreted. In this episode, Rich breaks down four key perspectives on the tribulation—the historicist, preterist, idealist, and futurist views (explained below). Steve connects Revelation to the book of Daniel, showing how the two come together to reveal God’s plan. He also highlights a significant prophetic marker: Israel’s reestablishment as a nation in 1948, a fulfillment of Ezekiel’s prophecy and a sign that we are living in the final days. The conversation also explores the various judgments described in Revelation, painting a vivid picture of Christ’s second coming. Beyond these events, Jesus makes it clear that the end will not come until the gospel has been preached to all nations, leading to a great harvest of souls. Understanding Revelation—and the Bible as a whole—requires discerning when Scripture speaks figuratively and when it speaks plainly. This distinction is crucial for sound interpretation. Ultimately, as Rich reminds us, this knowledge isn’t just for study—it should compel us to live on mission, sharing who Jesus is and what awaits those who put their faith in Him.

•Historicist View – Interprets Revelation as a record of historical events, specifically the history of the Western Church rather than history in general.

•Preterist View – Argues that everything in Revelation has already taken place, culminating in the destruction of the temple in 70 AD.

•Idealist View – Sees Revelation as entirely symbolic, representing timeless spiritual truths rather than specific historical events.

•Futurist View – Understands Revelation as a prophecy of future events yet to unfold.

Check out episodes 20, 21, 78 + 79 for more discussion on the rapture and the tribulation on Resident Strangers

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Steve, Rich, and Sarah are back this week with another in-depth discussion on the rapture. After a brief catch-up on life, Steve revisits the three major perspectives on when the rapture will occur—post-tribulation, mid-tribulation, and pre-tribulation (explained below). He emphasizes that while the view one holds is important, it does not necessarily rank among the most critical theological issues. Daniel 9 serves as a key reference for understanding the tribulation and God’s intended audience, with Rich contributing additional passages and perspectives to further support the discussion. Both Steve and Rich agree that Jesus could return at any moment; however, they point out that the perspective one holds on the rapture influences whether or not that belief aligns with their understanding. Different views also shape the sense of hope associated with Christ’s return. Rich concludes by reminding believers of the significance of these discussions. He highlights that the anticipation of Jesus’ imminent return offers encouragement to live with purpose, remain steadfast in faith, and endure challenges with perseverance.

Post-tribulation view - believers go through the entire time of the tribulation and the resurrection and rapture are combined as Jesus returns

Mid-tribulation view - believers go through about 3.5 years of the tribulation with the calling of the Two Witnesses being considered the midpoint (can also be called pre-wrath)

Pre-tribulation view - Jesus returns for the church prior to the tribulation

Check out episodes 20 + 21 for more discussion on the rapture and the tribulation on Resident Strangers

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On today’s episode of Resident Strangers, Steve and Rich take a deeper dive into the topic of the rapture, which they previously touched on while exploring the Desert Springs doctrinal statement. They address common skepticism, noting that while the word rapture doesn’t appear in the Bible, its concept is supported by Scripture—Steve points to John 14 as Jesus’ first mention of it. Many believers experience fear surrounding the rapture, but Steve reminds us that it is meant to be “our blessed hope,” not a source of anxiety. He emphasizes the Christian perspective as a two-world view—this world is not our home; we live for the one to come. Rich also discusses alternative theories that challenge the rapture, offering a broader understanding of the topic. There’s a lot packed into this episode, and we hope it brings both clarity and excitement for the return of Jesus!

Check out episodes 20 + 21 for more discussion on the Rapture on Resident Strangers

Desert Springs' Doctrinal Statement

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Why is it so important for a believer to be in the Word? There are four main reasons that Steve and Rich break down today to bolster the imperativeness of Christians studying the Bible. Scripture can and should dictate what we believe and how we communicate what we believe. If the Bible is viewed as the final authority for life, then why do so many Christians not know or understand how to study it? Even with how vast scripture can appear God is incredibly clear in His Word and does not leave us with riddles or codes to try and understand. There are passages and pieces that are difficult to understand but it does not mean that it is not knowable. Context is king when studying. Before we can know what scripture means we have to know what it says. All of these thoughts just point to how necessary the Bible is. The fact is God cannot be known without studying His Word. Romans 1 is a great passage to support this. The Bible is all we need to know about God - what we need to know is revealed in scripture. 

Important Characteristics of Scripture:
Authority 
Clarity 
Necessity
Sufficiency 

Check out episodes 2, 3, 51, 52, and 54 to hear more discussion about the Bible on Resident Strangers

e-Sword (Bible study resource mentioned by Steve)

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Happy New Year! Steve, Rich and Sarah are back in the studio and are looking forward to this new year. Steve begins by encouraging all of us to put some plans together for this year, specifically in the area of spiritual disciplines. These are things that can be looked at on the micro and macro level. Spiritual disciplines are arguably the most important things to focus on not just in the new year but each day! A good place to start would be thinking through how to be a better student of God's word. Rich gets personal and shares about his study of the Bible has shared in the last six years. A major goal Steve encourages is making it a goal to read through the entire Bible in 2025. Being only a week into the new year there is still plenty of time to start! Another approach to take would be committing to study one book of the Bible for several months to really dig into all the layers. The conversation then shifts slightly as Rich emphasizes the importance of not just being in the Word but being in the church with God's people. It is so important to understand that it will take work and commitment but that it is more than worth it. Rich, Steve and Sarah all give practical tips on how to dive deeper into a church community. Make 2025 a year that you grow deeper with the Lord and His people!

Kelly Lashua's testimony on The Stories Collective, Episode 22

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Merry Christmas from us at Resident Strangers! This will be the last episode of 2024. But don't worry! Steve, Rich and Sarah will be back on January 7th to kick off the new year. The conversation begins with some exciting updates about Rich's office at GCU (😂😉) and some things coming for the podcast in 2025. Getting into the topic, there are many opinions surrounding Christmas both in the Christian community and the world. The reality is we live in a world where many people need to be reconciled to God. With this in mind Steve says Christians should take every opportunity to point people to truth and light. Christmas is a great time to do that as people are generally more open. Does it really matter if Jesus was born on December 25th? Or if the Christmas holiday has pagan roots? Rich and Steve both speak on this and encourage ways to leverage the gospel in this season. We don't worship a day - we worship Jesus. In a lot of ways culture gives a great platform to emphasize Jesus during this time! Sarah speaks to the fact that the holidays are a wonderful time but can also be a very difficult time for some people. This is another reason to speak Jesus and keep the truth at the forefront no matter what the culture around us is celebrating. Rich brings up a great point that this could be a great time to clarify misunderstanding people have about the Christmas story and birth of Christ as well. There are a lot of great points and suggestions packed into this episode, we hope you enjoy it! See you next year!

Christmas Eve services are the most heavily attended by unchurched people than any other service throughout the year. If you're in the West Valley, we would love to invite you to Desert Springs!

December 23rd at 4:30pm + 6:00pm
December 24th at 3:00pm, 4:30pm + 6:00pm

14440 W. Indian School Rd. Goodyear, AZ 85395
dscchurch.com

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Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Happy Thanksgiving! This week Steve and Rich wrap up the topic of the last couple of weeks by talking about loving your brother and sister in Christ. How is loving your brother and sister different than loving your neighbor? Steve and Rich both reference some scripture passages that help to clarify what this means. This really is a unique and special command! It really comes down to viewing fellow Christians as the family of God. Part of being in the family of God means being intentional about developing relationships that will bring those "iron sharpens iron" moments. It is so beneficial for growth but also for support and comfort in times of crisis. Rich brings up that this is totally aligned with the New Testament instruction to love one another - but it isn't something that can be done on the fly. It takes an investment. Another key part of loving your brother and sister in Christ is speaking truth in love. Steve points to Ephesians 4 as a great passage to support this. This and so much more is discussed, we would encourage you to take note on how you love your brothers and sisters in Christ! 

Thanksgiving 2023, Episode 16

The Stories Collective, Aaron Holland's testimony (Rich's son!), Episode 138

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"Love your enemy" - that's a tough statement to take hold of. Last week Steve and Rich talked about the idea of loving your neighbor and this week they are talking about the other side of the coin which is loving your enemy. The culture we live in today is very much oriented around "sides." This leads to a lot of issues, including seeing the other side as an enemy or seeing yourself as righteous in your own eyes. Have you ever thought about how many conflicts and issues could be avoided or resolved by simply having a conversation? Rich talks about the temptation of thinking of someone as an enemy when they really are not. This raises the question what is an enemy? In Matthew 5:43 Jesus challenges everyone to love their enemies and gives examples of what the means. A Christian should always seek to view others as children of God, recognizing their value. Steve brings up Romans 12 as another passage to evaluate loving an enemy. Christians are called to live differently than the world (as resident strangers 😉) and a lot of that comes down to how we love those who might be considered an enemy. Jesus gave an ultimate example of this as He hung on the cross.

Steve + Rich's co-sermon on conflict (Aug. 2024)

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This week's topic on Resident Strangers is loving your neighbor. Rich begins by sharing a relatable story (let's just say it involves a credit card not working correctly) and how he was challenged to love his neighbor. When we think of loving our neighbor we might think "that's easy, I love my community" but it really goes beyond to the person we don't even really know. Think of the waitress or the mechanic or maybe even your literal neighbor who lives next door. Steve tells us that this is first introduced in the book of Leviticus. When Jesus talks about loving your neighbor in the New Testament He is pulling from the law. Rich then brings us to the parable of the Good Samaritan and gives a lot of the context surrounding this story that Jesus told. There are so many layers to this that show what it looks like to truly love your neighbor as Jesus said. Steve ends by encouraging us to think intentionally and specifically about how we might love our neighbor because honestly it isn't always our inclination.

Recent sermons at Desert Springs

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Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.