The Orchard Podcast

Do you know God's will for you this year? Would you like to know? It may be that you already know the answer to that question. The better question may be, do you know how to do God's will?

In this episode of the Orchard Podcast, we will discuss the topic of knowing and doing God's will. This is the time of the year when we are looking toward the future and wondering what God may have in store for our lives, families, and ministry. We invite you to join us around the table to pause and think with us as we run into the months ahead.

In this final episode of 2024, with the Christmas season upon us, we discuss the concluding words of Jesus' most famous sermon, while also talking a bit about Clark Griswold, Christmas lights, and the birth of Jesus.

We also introduce our new book that just hit Amazon and Barnes and Noble this month called "Repairers of the Breach."

Click here to learn more about our new book:

https://www.amazon.com/Repairers-Breach-pilgrimage-heart-Kingdom/dp/B0DM9K6K1N

If Jesus had Google Maps, would He take the fastest route—or the one less traveled? In this episode, we dive into Matthew 7:13-23 to explore how following the way of Jesus is about more than directions. It’s about transformation. Discover how walking His path shapes our lives today, leading us to love God and others more deeply.

What does a sandwich, a plank, a window, and gold have to do with each other? In this episode, we will talk about each of these as they relate to Jesus' teaching about loving other people. We are working our way through Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and we will discuss the first few verses of chapter seven in this episode. We would love to hear your thoughts, feedback, or comments related to this episode. Email us at [email protected].

In this episode, we dive into Jesus’ powerful teaching on "storing up treasures in heaven" and what it means to manage our earthly resources in a way that aligns with God’s kingdom. Discover how to own and enjoy what you have without letting your possessions take hold of your heart. We’ll explore practical ways to invest in eternal treasures that make an impact both now and for eternity, guiding us to live with purpose, generosity, and freedom in a world driven by materialism. Learn how the work of God's kingdom is actively transforming lives today, and how you can be part of that mission.

If you had 30 seconds to share the most important parts of living in God's kingdom, what would you say? What would you include? What would you leave out? In Matthew 6, Jesus gives us the perfect elevator pitch on the heart of the Christian life. We know those words today as the Lord's Prayer.

In this episode we will unpack this prayer and discuss how Jesus intended it to be a guide for daily life.

Jesus said, "let your good works be seen by others that they would glorify God" and then a few minutes later he said, "give in secret." What is Jesus trying to teach us about giving and serving with these two seemingly contradictory statements. In this episode we will look at this giving paradox and talk about how to give in a good way that honors God as well as those in need.

"Go the extra mile" and "Turn the other cheek" are universally known expressions that were first spoken by Jesus himself. Both of these phrases are ancient and yet timeless as they guide us in the daily challenge of loving people around us, especially those who are difficult to love. In this episode, we will talk about Jesus' unorthodox approach to loving others and how that affects the impact we can make in the world as his followers.

We also are excited to have Deacon Stanley Jones Jr the Department Head for Missions at First Baptist Church of Glenarden International as our special guest for this conversation as he shares his insights from his life and ministry on the topic of extra-mile living and loving.

Join us in this thought-provoking episode as we delve into one of Jesus' lesser-known teachings found in Matthew 5:31-37, where He explores the significance of oaths and the essence of integrity. While oaths may conjure up images of childhood pinky swears or solemn promises made on a loved one's grave, Jesus challenges us to a deeper understanding—one rooted in trustworthiness, keeping our word, and honoring our relationships.

In this episode, we embark on a transformative journey from legalism to love, guided by Jesus' radical teachings on the law of love. As we explore Matthew 5:17-20, we confront the temptation to approach spirituality like studying an owner's manual—meticulously memorizing and reciting passages without experiencing genuine transformation. Instead, Jesus invites us to leave behind the confines of rule-based religion and embark on a life-giving road trip of heart transformation. By embracing the law of love for God and others, we unlock the power to live lives of genuine faith, holiness, and impact in the world. Join us as we navigate the twists and turns of this spiritual journey and discover the freedom and joy that come from embracing the transformative power of love.