Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar kick off an eight-episode series, “What Is the Gospel?” with today’s discussion of the fundamental question of “Who Is God?”

The guys start off by differentiating between the questions “Who is God?" and “What is God?” and emphasizing the personal attributes of the Lord. Doing so, the hosts warn against impersonal conversations that can lead to idolatry. The awe-inspiring nature of God, the Creator of the universe, is highlighted, urging believers to discard their idols.

Understanding God as the Alpha and Omega, a title which denotes His all-inclusive, eternal nature, helps bridge the finite understanding of humans with the infinite nature of God. The importance of the Trinity in the gospel is underscored, with caution against using analogies that may lead to heresy. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct yet constitute one God, a truth derived systematically from scripture.

The revelatory nature of God is discussed, emphasizing the Bible as a means of divine revelation. God reveals Himself in nature, through His people, and ultimately in Jesus Christ. Amid a truth crisis, God is portrayed as the ultimate Truth Teller. Distinguishing between communicable and incommunicable attributes of God, the guys note that some attributes, like love and goodness, are shared with humans but not to the same degree. Jealousy, a communicable attribute, is explained as God's rightful demand for praise.

The importance of details in understanding God is stressed, citing the fear of the Lord as a deterrent from evil. In evangelism, knowing who God is becomes crucial, as the wrong understanding can distort the gospel. Representing the true and living God ensures an accurate portrayal of the gospel message, encouraging believers to intimately know and make God known.

Embark on a captivating journey with Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar as they attempt to unravel the profound nature of God and His Word. This riveting discussion closes with a fervent call for believers to intimately know and accurately represent the true and living God. Tune in for an episode that promises enlightenment, depth, and a profound connection with the Creator.

 Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating!
 
Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.

You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!
Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro

Ep. 229 - Who Is God?

Enjoy the ride with this hilarious new Podcast as hosts (Ray Comfort, Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne, Mark Spence, and Oscar Navarro) and special guests explore the pressing questions of our day with sound theology and apologetics! We would love to hear from you. How has the podcast encouraged you? Are there any subjects you’d like the guys to cover or questions you’d like them to answer? Email us at Podcast@LivingWaters.com and you may hear your feedback and questions quoted on the next episode!

Religion & Spirituality

Other

Spirituality

Christianity

Buddhism

Hinduism

Judaism

Islam

Religion

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar are diving into the nuanced topic of slavery in the Bible. Atheists like to point fingers at this and claim that the Bible supports slavery. While contemporary perceptions of slavery evoke images of the brutal Atlantic slave trade, the biblical context offers a different understanding. 

In biblical times, slavery predominantly referred to a form of indentured servitude  where individuals voluntarily entered service as a means of survival or economic gain. Unlike the race-based slavery prevalent in history, biblical bondservants had certain rights and protections under Mosaic law. Moreover, the Bible unequivocally condemns the dehumanization and mistreatment of others, emphasizing principles of love for one's neighbor and equitable treatment of all individuals. The guys reinforce the inherent value and dignity of every human being, created in the image of God.

Critics often point to instances in the Bible where slavery is mentioned, such as taking prisoners of war as slaves, as evidence of its endorsement. However, these objections overlook the historical and cultural context in which these practices occurred. The Bible does not necessarily endorse all practices it records but presents them within the broader framework of the times. Importantly, figures like Hagar, a slave girl, play significant roles in shaping God's redemptive plan, emphasizing the inclusivity and universality of God's love and grace.

Christianity has historically been a driving force behind social reform and the abolition of slavery. Harriet Tubman, who risked her life to rescue hundreds of slaves through the Underground Railroad, gained the nickname of Moses. In the exodus of Israel from Egypt, Moses was the great emancipator. The absence of a specific commandment against slavery in the Ten Commandments does not imply its endorsement. Instead, the principles of justice, compassion, and human dignity woven throughout the biblical narrative provide a moral framework that condemns oppression and upholds the inherent worth of every individual.

In summary, the Bible's portrayal of slavery requires nuanced understanding within its historical context, emphasizing principles of justice, compassion, and human dignity. Christianity, far from endorsing slavery, has historically laid the moral framework that atheists and others borrow from when trying to find flaws in scripture. Christians should use their example as encouragement to deeply study God’s word. The guys encourage everyone to walk as bondservants to Christ, willingly submitting to Him and His word.  Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating!
 
Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.

You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!
Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro

Ep. 255 - Does the Bible Support Slavery

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss how King Josiah stands as a stark contrast to King Solomon, offering a refreshing narrative of rediscovery and adherence to the law of the Lord. Amidst a lineage tainted by corrupt rulers, Josiah's reign showcases the redeeming power of God over legacies steeped in sin. 

Josiah's ascent to kingship at a young age underscores the vital role of discipline and instruction in the upbringing of children, highlighting the need for boundaries that foster both safety and spiritual growth. This stands in sharp contrast to contemporary parenting trends that often prioritize indulgence over the cultivation of discipline and character. Instilling discipline from a young age, combined with tender instruction, lays the groundwork for a heart receptive to God's truth and guidance. 

Upon discovering the law of God, Josiah's immediate concern for the consequences of disobedience reflects a profound understanding of God’s wrath. His subsequent efforts to lead Judah back to the Lord mark the first reformation, echoing a call for spiritual renewal that resonates even in modern times. 

Central to Josiah's story is the concept of repentance as a transformative process. It encompasses not only acknowledgment of wrongdoing but also a genuine change in behavior and mindset. The portrayal of repentance as a loud and visible response to sin underscores its profound impact on individuals and communities alike. Moreover, the guys emphasize the inclusive nature of God's grace, which extends to all who earnestly seek forgiveness and restoration. 

Josiah's thorough repentance serves as a model for believers, and the guys urge believers to confront sin with the same zeal and resolve. It prompts reflection on the need for personal and collective repentance, as well as a renewed commitment to aligning with God's will. The guys  offer hope to those who may feel weighed down by past mistakes, reminding them that God's redemptive power knows no bounds.

Josiah's story highlights that it is never too late to turn to God, as He stands ready to welcome all who come to Him in repentance and faith. The life of King Josiah speaks to the enduring themes of discipline, repentance, and redemption. It shows the importance of fostering a heart receptive to God's truth, as well as the transformative power of genuine repentance. Through Josiah's story, believers are encouraged to pursue lives marked by holiness and obedience, knowing that God's mercy and grace are ever-present, ready to lead them into a deeper relationship with Him. Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating!
 
Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.

You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!
Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro

Ep. 254 - Lessons From the Life of King Josiah

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss lessons from the life of this famous Old Testament king. Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, ascended to the throne and ruled over Israel for a prosperous 40-year reign. His legacy is marked by a duality of wisdom and tragedy. Amidst his achievements, Solomon's life serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the perils of succumbing to worldly desires and straying from the path of wisdom rooted in the fear of the Lord.

At the onset of his reign, Solomon receives an offer from God in a dream: he may request anything from God, and it will be granted. In a display of apparent wisdom, Solomon asks for discernment. However, Mark posits a deeper reflection: Solomon could have sought what the Lord desired to grant him. This subtle distinction speaks volumes about the nature of true wisdom–not merely seeking knowledge or understanding but aligning one's desires with God's will.

Solomon's wisdom is depicted as deriving directly from God, contrasting sharply with the allure of worldly treasures or fleeting pleasures. It serves as a reminder that authentic wisdom begins with reverent awe of the Lord and seeking His guidance above all else. This fundamental principle underscores the narrative of Solomon's life, emphasizing the dangers of allowing worldly desires to eclipse devotion to God.

Despite Solomon's initial dedication to the Lord, he allows idolatry to infiltrate his heart. He indulges in the worship of foreign gods. This gradual descent into spiritual compromise serves as a sobering reminder of the insidious nature of sin and the importance of guarding one's heart against its allure. Solomon's downfall is further compounded by his choice of pagan wives, who lead him astray from his devotion to God. Solomon's errors extend beyond personal consequences, as his actions sow seeds of discord within the kingdom, culminating in civil unrest and strife.

Despite being endowed with divine wisdom, Solomon's tragic narrative serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of prioritizing worldly desires over fidelity to God. His life parallels the redemptive mission of Christ, who came to eradicate false idols and restore humanity's communion with God.

For Christians, Solomon's life urges vigilance against the allure of idolatry and the subtle erosion of spiritual integrity. It underscores the need to humbly acknowledge one's susceptibility to sin and the imperative of seeking God's wisdom above all else. True wisdom emanates from a heart surrendered to God, grounded in the fear of the Lord, and guided by His divine counsel. 

 Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating!
 
Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.

You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!
Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro

Ep. 253 - Lessons From the Life of King Solomon

Hypocrisy creates a disparity between professed beliefs and actual conduct. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar dive into this topic and encourage listeners in ways to avoid hypocrisy in their lives. Ray shares how his evangelistic fervor is fueled by a genuine desire to adhere to the standards set forth by God for Christians to share the gospel boldly and authentically. Yet hypocrisy remains a persistent struggle within the Christian community, from the time of Jesus to present day.

Central to the issue of hypocrisy among Christians is the existence of a prescribed moral standard, derived from Jesus’ teachings and scriptures. When Christians inevitably fall short of these standards the response should ideally be one of humility and repentance, seeking forgiveness from those affected by their actions. However, hypocrisy often manifests in the form of minimizing one's own faults or even elevating oneself above others, rather than acknowledging and addressing one's own shortcomings.

The detrimental impact of hypocrisy extends beyond individual behavior, permeating familial and societal dynamics as well. Children are particularly perceptive to inconsistencies between what their parents profess and how they actually behave. Such incongruences can lead to confusion and disillusionment, undermining the moral upbringing within the household.

The story of Saul, who disobeyed God's command by keeping spoils intended for destruction, serves as a cautionary tale against the dangers of rationalizing moral lapses. Similarly, the betrayal of Jesus by Judas, a trusted disciple, highlights the deceptive nature of hypocrisy and its potential to betray even the closest relationships.

Despite the prevalence of hypocrisy, believers find solace in the knowledge that God discerns the true intentions and motivations of the heart. This awareness is a reminder of the importance of genuine repentance and accountability. Jesus Himself vehemently condemned the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, emphasizing the need for alignment between professed beliefs and actual conduct.

Ultimately, combating hypocrisy requires introspection, accountability, and a commitment to spiritual growth. Cultivating a devotional life centered on prayer and scripture meditation serves as a powerful antidote to hypocrisy, fostering a deeper connection with God and a heightened awareness of one's own moral shortcomings. By embracing humility, authenticity, and a genuine desire to live according to God's standards, believers can strive to overcome hypocrisy and cultivate a life of integrity and moral consistency.

 Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating!
 
Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.

You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!
Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro

Ep. 252 - How to Avoid Becoming a Hypocrite

Joshua, whose name translates to "Jehovah is his help," emerges as a central figure in the Exodus narrative, embodying courage, faith, and obedience amidst adversity. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar take a deep dive into the life of Joshua, highlighting lessons for every believer. Initially introduced during the battle against the Amalekites, Joshua's significance grows as he becomes instrumental in spying out the promised land alongside Caleb. Their report of the promised land, buoyed by faith, contrasts starkly with the fearful majority, underscoring the importance of trust in God's promises.

Moses' designation of Joshua as his successor signifies not just a transfer of leadership but also a continuity of God's faithfulness. Joshua's leadership is characterized by unwavering faith and courage, despite facing daunting challenges. His admonition to Israel against yielding to fear serves as a timeless lesson for believers, emphasizing the necessity of obedience grounded in faith.

The guys point out how the transition from Moses to Joshua underscores a broader biblical truth: human leaders may guide, but salvation ultimately rests in God alone. Joshua's dependence on God is visible in pivotal moments, such as the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River, symbolizing divine protection and power. The habit of seeking God early in the day, as observed in Joshua's life, echoes a recurring pattern among biblical leaders, highlighting the significance of prioritizing spiritual communion.

The inclusion of Rahab's story within Joshua's narrative serves as a poignant reminder of God's inclusive redemption. Rahab's conversion from idolatry to faith is an example of the transformative power of God's grace, transcending cultural and religious barriers. Her role in the fall of Jericho's walls showcases the paradoxical nature of obedience to God's seemingly unconventional commands, often leading to miraculous outcomes beyond human comprehension.

The overarching theme of Joshua's narrative revolves around God's unwavering presence and intervention on behalf of His people. This divine assurance emboldens believers to step out in faith, trusting in God's sovereignty even amidst uncertainty and opposition. Joshua’s life serves as a timeless exhortation for believers to remain steadfast in faith and obedience, knowing that God fights for His people. His legacy transcends mere historical narrative, offering lessons for believers navigating their own journeys of faith.

 Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating!
 
Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.

You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!
Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro

Ep. 229 - Who Is God?

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