In this episode, Dr. James Spencer discusses the virgin birth and Matthew's use of Isaiah 7:14. Beginning with an analysis of Isaiah 7:14 in its Old Testament context, Dr. Spencer moves on to consider various issues of interpretation before describing how Matthew uses Isaiah 7:14 to point to the virgin birth of Jesus Christ. 

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You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com.

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In this episode, James continues his discussion of Luke 1. He deals with the Magnificat and Zecheriah's Prophecy. He also discusses the importance of Christ's coming from the perspective of Old Testament anticipation.

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You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com.

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In this episode, James begins a short series that will deal with various passages related to Christmas. The announcement of John and Jesus represent the proclamation that God will be doing something new amongst his people. They demonstrate that there is no obstacle too big for God to overcome as he seeks to bring in his kingdom. 

If you are interested in supporting the Thinking Christian podcast or just getting a unique, seven lesson resource on Christian decision-making, click here. 

You can also find more resources at usefultogod.com.

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In this episode, James and Nate welcome T. J. Jackson, Director of Community Engagement for Life 88.5. They discuss the various ways Life 88.5 works with communities within their listening area to provide food, build relationships, and advance the mission of Life 88.5. 

To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here.

You can finid out more about Life 88.5 and T. J. Jackson at https://www.life885.com/programs/t-j-jackson/. 

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In this episode, James and Nate talk about the need for civility after the election. They consider the various ways Christians can show love for neighbors despite the political polarization in the United States today. 

To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here.

You can also gain additional perspective on the intersection between politics and Christianity via James' author page at chrisitanity.com. The following links are to some of the specific articles found there:

• Is the United States Really Blessed by God?
• Three Ways Christianity Cuts through Political Noise with Clear Hope
• What Role Should Law Play in Chrisitan Political Participation?
• Is Christian Political Participation a Sacred Duty or a Civil Right?

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In this episode, James sits down with Dan Jacobsen, grandson of Warren W. Wiersbe. Dan is a pastor and author of a new book titled Becoming New: 100-Days of Transformation through God's Word. Dan talks about the book's origins in some unfinished papers from his grandfather, as well as the similarities and differences between pastoral ministry today and when his grandfather was pastoring. 

To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here.

You can find Dan's book at amazon.com.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James sits down with Terry Wildman. Terry is the lead translator of the First Nations Version: An Indigenous Translation of the New Testament. Terry and James discuss the current state of minsitry to Native Americans and the process involved in creating the First Nations Version. Terry also shares some passages from the text and describes the approach to the translation and its ongoing impact beyond the Native American population.

To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here.

You can purchase First Nation Version at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). You can also find Terry's other book Birth of the Chosen One, which offers an indigenous translation of the Christmas story along with Native American artwork.

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In a world filled with narratives that deny and overlook God, PREPPED empowers Christians to live out a story that has God at its center. By bridging the gap between academic research and practical ministry, PREPPED equips believers to proclaim the gospel in word and deed by developing a deep understanding of God’s word and the Christian life.

Hosted by James Spencer, PhD, and featuring special guests, this podcast is dedicated to breaking down complex theological ideas into practical, everyday insights, which will prepare you to challenge the world’s narratives about love, politics, success, and what it means to be a “good person”. From navigating the challenges of life’s transitions and engaging thoughtfully with technology and politics, to strengthening discipleship and giving a faithful testimony to your neighbors, PREPPED empowers believers to live out God’s plan in a world that omits Him. Our mission is to ensure that the difference between God’s story and the world’s story becomes as clear as the difference between a baptism and a bath. Whether you’re interested in biblical studies, apologetics, ministry training, or are simply looking for guidance on living out your faith, PREPPED is here to prepare you for the journey. 

Are you ready to start retelling the world’s story from a God-centered approach? Subscribe to the PREPPED Podcast today and transform how you live and share God’s story in a world that desperately needs it.

In this episode, James welcomes Dr. Kevin Chen, author of Wonders of Your Law. James and Kevin discuss Kevin's idea of "nexus passages" and their value in understanding the Old Testament, tracing themes, and pulling together a cohesive Old Testament narrative. 

To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here.

You can purchase Kevin's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode, James hosts Samuel Parkison author of To Gaze Upon God. They discuss the beatific vision, eschatology, and Christians conceptions of the afterlife. 

To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here.

You can purchase Samuel's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.