Sweet Jesus

But, but, but…! What's YOUR excuse?We know Jesus calls us to love our neighbors, build relationships, and share the Good News. So why don't we do it more often?Maybe we're too busy. Maybe we're uncomfortable around certain people. Maybe we're afraid of rejection, worried about saying the wrong thing, or simply reluctant to step outside our comfort zones.We've all got our excuses. But are they keeping us from something incredibly important?In EP-215 of our Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus podcast, we're discussing Chapter 13, “But, But . . .”, and confronting the obstacles that keep ordinary Christians from participating in God's extraordinary mission.Hebrews 12 encourages us to throw off everything that hinders us and run the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus.That includes recognizing the attitudes, fears, prejudices, and priorities that keep us from connecting people to Him.The good news? Jesus doesn't abandon us to overcome these obstacles on our own. He has already accomplished our salvation through His death and resurrection, and His Holy Spirit continues to work in us, transforming our hearts and empowering us for His mission.So what's holding YOU back?Join us as we talk about getting past our excuses, loving people like Jesus, and taking practical steps to connect the people around us to Him.Based on Chapter 13 of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus, by Bruce Jaeger with Emil Gretarsson.If this conversation encourages you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who wants to make a greater difference for Christ.You can also pick up a copy of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus and learn how God can use ordinary relationships to accomplish extraordinary things.📖 Grab the book: https://a.co/d/0iSjmoXp❤️ Like, subscribe, and share — let’s keep Jesus the Main Thing!Know any kids in need of quality books? Check out our children's books:🔗 Nobody's Nola: https://a.co/d/0hvUDTqN🔗 Nola's Icelandic Adventure: https://a.co/d/09e72YSt🔗 Nola's Nantucket Rescue: https://a.co/d/00EAZgMI#ChurchLeadership #JesusChangesLives #NeighborLove #MissionField #OpenARMS #ShareJesus #ChristianLiving #Evangelism #RelationalEvangelism #NoMoreExcuses #ChristianPodcast #FaithInAction #Discipleship #GreatCommission #HolySpirit #ConnectingPeopleToJesus #LoveYourNeighbor #EverydayMission #LCMS #BlessOthers #LoveLikeJesus

How do Lutherans read the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats? In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus separates the righteous from the unrighteous based on their deeds. On the surface, this text can look like salvation by works.In this video, we dive into this passage from a Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) perspective. We explore how true faith naturally produces good works, yet salvation remains entirely a gift of God's grace through Jesus Christ.Key Topics Covered:The distinction between Law and Gospel in Matthew 25.Why the "sheep" are surprised by their own good deeds.How Christ's righteousness is the sole basis for our salvation.The proper role of good works in the Christian life.

If this conversation encourages you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who wants to make a greater difference for Christ.You can also pick up a copy of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus and learn how God can use ordinary relationships to accomplish extraordinary things.📖 Grab the book: https://a.co/d/0iSjmoXp❤️ Like, subscribe, and share — let’s keep Jesus the Main Thing!Know any kids in need of quality books? Check out our children's books:🔗 Nobody's Nola: https://a.co/d/0hvUDTqN🔗 Nola's Icelandic Adventure: https://a.co/d/09e72YSt🔗 Nola's Nantucket Rescue: https://a.co/d/00EAZgMI
#LCMS #Lutheran #Matthew25 #TheologicalReflection #GraceAlone #FaithAlone #Christalone #scripturealone #solideogloria #BibleStudy #ReformationTheology #Jesus #BodyofChrist #loveoneanother #compassion #service

“I'm not qualified to talk to people about Jesus.”

Ever thought that?

Here's the good news: You don't have to be.

In Chapter 12 of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus, we're talking about one of the biggest things keeping Christians from sharing their faith—the fear that we don't know enough, aren't trained enough, or won't have the right answers.

But look at the people Jesus used.

The shepherds at Bethlehem simply told people what they had seen and heard. The woman at the well went back to her town and told people about the man she had met. The man born blind couldn't answer every theological question thrown at him—but he knew this: “Though I was blind, now I see.”

Mary Magdalene told the disciples she had seen the risen Lord. Andrew simply brought his brother to Jesus. Philip told Nathanael, “Come and see.”

That's what a witness does.

You don't need to know everything. You don't need a theology degree. You don't need all the answers.

You know Jesus. You have a story. You can tell someone what you've seen and heard.

You CAN do this!

If this conversation encourages you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who wants to make a greater difference for Christ.You can also pick up a copy of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus and learn how God can use ordinary relationships to accomplish extraordinary things.📖 Grab the book: ⁠https://a.co/d/0iSjmoXp⁠❤️ Like, subscribe, and share — let’s keep Jesus the Main Thing!Know any kids in need of quality books? Check out our children's books:🔗 Nobody's Nola: ⁠https://a.co/d/0hvUDTqN⁠🔗 Nola's Icelandic Adventure: ⁠https://a.co/d/09e72YSt⁠🔗 Nola's Nantucket Rescue: ⁠https://a.co/d/00EAZgMI⁠

#ShareJesus #ShareYourFaith #OpenARMS #RelationalEvangelism #EverydayEvangelism #ChristianWitness #Evangelism #ConnectingPeopleToJesus #FaithInAction #Jesus #ChristianLiving #Discipleship #GreatCommission #HolySpirit #Gospel #ComeAndSee #ChristianPodcast #LCMS #EverydayMission #YouCanDoThis #JesusChangesLives #ChristianPodcast #MissionField

Be the Friend Jesus Has Been to You | Open ARMS Chapter 9 - ENGAGEEngage moves beyond simply common interests or the casual conversations we have with acquaintances. Engage is about developing credibility and trust, because who wants to have deep spiritual conversations with someone they don't trust or care to learn anything from??? If this conversation encourages you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who wants to make a greater difference for Christ.You can also pick up a copy of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus and learn how God can use ordinary relationships to accomplish extraordinary things.📖 Grab the book: https://a.co/d/0iSjmoXp❤️ Like, subscribe, and share — let’s keep Jesus the Main Thing!Know any kids in need of quality books? Check out our children's books:🔗 Nobody's Nola: https://a.co/d/0hvUDTqN🔗 Nola's Icelandic Adventure: https://a.co/d/09e72YSt🔗 Nola's Nantucket Rescue: https://a.co/d/00EAZgMI#OpenARMS #RelationalEvangelism #BlessOthers #LoveLikeJesus #ChristianLiving #Discipleship #Evangelism #FaithInAction #GreatCommission #ChurchLeadership #LCMS #JesusChangesLives #NeighborLove #MissionField #ChristianPodcast

How do you build a meaningful relationship with someone who doesn’t know Jesus—without making them feel like a project?Chapter 7 of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus is all about BOND: finding the common ground that naturally brings people together.The Apostle Paul said, “I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some.” That doesn’t mean manipulating people or forcing spiritual conversations. It means valuing people enough to notice them, enjoy them, spend time with them, and discover the places where your lives naturally intersect.Sports. Work. Kids. Hobbies. Running. Biking. Coffee. Neighborhoods. Shared experiences.Sometimes a relationship begins with the simple realization:“What? You too?!”In this episode, we talk about:Why common ground mattersThe difference between intentional relationships and manipulationWhy people should never become “projects”How Jesus and Paul met people where they wereWhy shared interests can become bridges for deeper conversationsHow ordinary Christians can connect people to Jesus right where they live, work, and playYou don’t need a complicated evangelism technique. You may simply need to notice the people God has already placed in your path—and find the bond that brings you together.Who could you intentionally get to know better this week?

If this conversation encourages you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who wants to make a greater difference for Christ.You can also pick up a copy of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus and learn how God can use ordinary relationships to accomplish extraordinary things.📖 Grab the book: https://a.co/d/0iSjmoXp❤️ Like, subscribe, and share — let’s keep Jesus the Main Thing!Know any kids in need of quality books? Check out our children's books:🔗 Nobody's Nola: https://a.co/d/0hvUDTqN🔗 Nola's Icelandic Adventure: https://a.co/d/09e72YSt🔗 Nola's Nantucket Rescue: https://a.co/d/00EAZgMI

#OpenARMS #ChristianPodcast #RelationalEvangelism #SharingJesus #Evangelism #ChristianLiving #Discipleship #GreatCommission #CommonGround #FaithInEverydayLife #Jesus #LoveYourNeighbor

What if the greatest evangelism strategy isn't a strategy at all?In this episode of the Open ARMS Podcast, we explore Chapter 6: "We're Relational to BLESS Others." In a world that prizes efficiency, productivity, and technology, God continues to accomplish His greatest work through ordinary people who intentionally love and bless the people around them.Jesus rarely treated people like projects. He built relationships. He listened. He ate meals. He served. He forgave. He loved. Long before people believed His message, they experienced His presence.The same is true today.We'll explore the biblical foundation for living a life that intentionally BLESSES others, practical ways to deepen relationships with neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family, and why genuine love often opens doors that arguments never can.Whether you're naturally outgoing or quietly introverted, God has uniquely positioned you to become a blessing exactly where you live, work, learn, and play.Because changed lives usually begin with trusted relationships.In this episode you'll discover:Why relationships are God's preferred mission fieldHow Jesus modeled relational evangelismWhat it really means to BLESS someoneSimple ways to become more intentional every dayWhy loving people often speaks louder than winning argumentsIf this conversation encourages you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who wants to make a greater difference for Christ.You can also pick up a copy of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus and learn how God can use ordinary relationships to accomplish extraordinary things.📖 Grab the book: https://a.co/d/0iSjmoXp❤️ Like, subscribe, and share — let’s keep Jesus the Main Thing!Know any kids in need of quality books? Check out our children's books:🔗 Nobody's Nola: https://a.co/d/0hvUDTqN🔗 Nola's Icelandic Adventure: https://a.co/d/09e72YSt🔗 Nola's Nantucket Rescue: https://a.co/d/00EAZgMI#OpenARMS #RelationalEvangelism #BlessOthers #LoveLikeJesus #ChristianLiving #Discipleship #Evangelism #FaithInAction #GreatCommission #ChurchLeadership #LCMS #JesusChangesLives #NeighborLove #MissionField #ChristianPodcast

What if the greatest obstacle keeping someone from Jesus... is us?In Chapter 5 of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus, we explore a simple but life-changing truth: availability is really about allocation. Every one of us has exactly the same 168 hours each week. The question isn't whether we have enough time—it's what (and who) we're giving it to.Jesus didn't merely fit people into His schedule. He intentionally allocated His life to seeking and saving the lost. If we're too busy, too distracted, or too consumed with lesser priorities to notice the people God has placed around us, we're missing one of the greatest purposes of our lives.If you've ever said, "I just don't have enough time," this conversation may completely change the way you think about following Jesus.📖 Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus is about helping ordinary Christians become extraordinary ambassadors for Christ—right where they already live, work, learn, and play.If this conversation encourages you, please Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who wants to live more intentionally for Christ.📖 Grab the book: https://a.co/d/0iSjmoXp❤️ Like, subscribe, and share — let’s keep Jesus the Main Thing!Know any kids in need of quality books? Check out our children's books:🔗 Nobody's Nola: https://a.co/d/0hvUDTqN🔗 Nola's Icelandic Adventure: https://a.co/d/09e72YSt🔗 Nola's Nantucket Rescue: https://a.co/d/00EAZgMI#OpenARMS #ConnectingPeopleToJesus #Evangelism #ChristianLiving #Discipleship #Jesus #Mission #FaithInAction #ChurchLeadership #Pastor #ChristianPodcast #TimeManagement

What makes someone approachable enough that others actually want to talk, open up, and listen?

In Chapter 4 of Open ARMS: Connecting People to Jesus, we explore the second part of being “Available” for God’s mission: becoming approachable.

Jesus welcomed the weary, the hurting, the sick, the ashamed, the outsiders, and the overlooked. If we are going to connect people to Jesus, our lives should reflect the same Spirit-filled posture.

In this episode, we talk about how anger, pride, fear, negativity, constant talking, and self-centeredness can quietly push people away. We also look at how joy, peace, humility, hope, listening, and other-centered love make Christians more available for real relationships and Gospel opportunities.

Because people do not usually open their hearts to someone who feels harsh, distracted, judgmental, or unavailable. But when the Holy Spirit forms the character of Christ in us, people notice.

📖 Grab the book: https://a.co/d/0iSjmoXp❤️ Like, subscribe, and share — let’s keep Jesus the Main Thing!Know any kids in need of quality books? Check out our children's books:🔗 Nobody's Nola: https://a.co/d/0hvUDTqN🔗 Nola's Icelandic Adventure: https://a.co/d/09e72YSt🔗 Nola's Nantucket Rescue: https://a.co/d/00EAZgMI#Godsmission #OpenARMS #ChristianPodcast #Evangelism #Witnessing #HolySpiritTransformation #FaithAndLife #JesusLovesYou #Approachability #ChristianCharacter #GospelLiving #OpenArmsMinistry #fruitofthespirit

What does it actually mean to be a "good and faithful servant"?

Join Emil and Scott for a deep dive into the Parable of the Talents. We discuss why everything we have is a gift from God, the importance of quality in our work, and how the grace of Jesus frees us from the fear of human judgment.Looking to take God's mission more seriously? Check out Pastor Emil's book: https://a.co/d/03mRODt3Have kids? Check out the children's book series: https://a.co/d/0c5TRWrl#BibleStudy #Parables #JesusTeaches #Faithfulness #Christianity101 #parablesofjesus #Godsmission

Mike and Emil dive into the heart of political violence and dehumanizing rhetoric in America.

We explore why Christians must stop treating politics like an idol and start engaging in their local communities with a focus on repentance and unity.

Looking to take God's mission more seriously? Check out Pastor Emil's book: https://a.co/d/03mRODt3

Have kids? Check out the children's book series: https://a.co/d/0c5TRWrl

#ChristianPolitics #HealingAmerica #SweetJesusPodcast #EndPolarization#GodsMission #JesusFirst #PoliticsSecond #J1P2 #politicalviolence #WHCD #trumpassassinationattempt #WeNeedJesus #ComeLordJesus #Lordhavemercy #repentance #ChristianNationalism