The Living Waters Podcast
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
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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!
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- 121Ep. 120 - The Amazing Definition of Initiative, Part 1Often, we are hindered by the thought that we must sit and pray over an idea before acting on it, but Ray Comfort shares the scriptural principle that when we trust God and the power of His message, we need not fear to act in order to serve him. Looking at the story of David vs. Goliath, he says that, when we see an opportunity to glorify and serve the Lord, we must take the initiative and do so. Then we can watch how God blesses our efforts. He illustrates this by telling a story about the time he had an idea to purchase a bus for use in ministry. By taking initiative and acting in faith, he was able to see how God provided means and opportunities for the gospel to go forward.Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 122Ep. 121 - The Amazing Definition of Initiative, Part 2Ray Comfort continues his exhortation on Initiative, today speaking of his efforts to write a book that ended up becoming a best-seller, and later even turned into a movie! God also supplied the needs for a circulation ministry that would eventually become Living Waters. Before he became a Christian, Ray would never have thought to do many of the things he has done for the sake of the gospel, and that is because when he was born again God gave him a new heart. As a new creature in Christ, Ray’s desires are now God’s desires. Why does Ray have a desire to reach the lost? Because that is God’s desire!Some people are so afraid of messing up that they don’t start anything. Ray has started many projects, books, and tracts that he hasn’t finished. There have been many times where Ray has “walked on water” and sunk and had to call out to Jesus to raise him up. But as he delights himself in the Lord, he can trust that God will give him the desires of his heart, which are God’s own desires.Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 123Ep. 122 - The Amazing Definition of Initiative, Part 3This is the final instalment of Ray Comfort’s devotional on Initiative. It is true that you can receive a word from God to step out in particular ways, such as when Ray and his family left New Zealand to come to the United States in 1989, but when it comes to sharing the gospel, we already have the command from God in the Great Commission. When you’re a Christian and you are filled with the desires of God and you want to see the lost saved, then you will pray and see the hand of God move again and again to answer those prayers. Not because you’re praying for something that you want, but because you are praying the will of God himself. God honors little things that you start. Ray has seen this happen over and over again, like with the upcoming “Operation London,” which is already fully funded, and even when he began filming his witnessing encounters, which Ray could never have imagined would be as successful as it has been. Initiative has been defined as “doing the right thing without being told.” This is evangelism. God has called us, and scripture entreats us to act boldly for the sake of the gospel. Pray for creativity and initiative, then begin and do something. Do what you can, trust in the power of the gospel and the Word of God, and you will see the desires of your heart, God’s desires to see the lost saved, come to fruition.Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 124Ep. 123 - How to Witness to Family & Close FriendsIn today's episode, the guys discuss how we can witness to our family and close friends. Often, the people closest to us are the most challenging to share the gospel with. When new believers want to begin sharing the gospel, they should not begin by focusing on the sins of others, but rather by repenting for their own sins first. It is by owning up to our own sins that we are best able to proclaim the gospel to others. Doing this takes a great deal of humility. However, when we finally come to know the Lord and are transformed by Him, we get excited to forgive other people and be forgiven ourselves. Before making the effort to reach our family and friends, we should first examine ourselves and our own contrition. This can be used as a springboard to show others that every single sin from every single person can be forgiven in the eyes of God. In addition to an apology, it is always necessary to ask the other person for their forgiveness. A large barrier when it comes to witnessing to our own family members is their knowledge of the person you might have been in the past. Another hurdle is the fear that they may write you off completely. We should remember to put our trust in the Lord and take risks for the sake of the gospel. It is absolutely key to approach everyone, even nonbelievers, with kindness and gentleness. When we really love someone, we are motivated to demonstrate that love in continuous outreach and thoughtfulness. When we live the Christ-like life, the term “witness” is not just a verb, but is also a noun. When your actions don’t align with the things you are preaching and how you are living yourself, the disconnect is obvious. Asking for prayers for those we love who are unsaved is another way we can witness to others. Prayer is the means by which God moves His hands. When the time comes to finally speak the gospel, sharing testimony is invaluable. Remember that nothing can get in the way of expressing genuine love and sincerity. We have a unique opportunity with the internet to reconnect with people from our past and offer the gospel. Finally, we are urged to be charged by our praise for God. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 125Ep. 124 - The Life of John BunyanIn today's episode, the guys discuss the English writer, John Bunyan. His most famous book, The Pilgrim’s Progress, has been printed 250 million times. He was born in 1668 in Elstow, England. Married at 21, and was brought to Christ through the Christian books his wife brought into their marriage. He recounts the many overwhelming temptations he felt to let go of his faith. Charles Spurgeon was radically impacted by Pilgrim’s Progress and quoted it often in his own sermons. In Pilgrim’s Progress, Bunyan stresses that no matter who you are, you can exercise faith in God. For anyone listening who has the desire to create, there is an opportunity to reach out into the Heavenly realm and bring back something which displays the glory of God. This same calling which John Bunyan exercised to write his books is still prevalent in our lives today. He wrote 9 books while imprisoned. After four years of being saved and becoming a minister, his sermons began to draw huge crowds. Though he was a very poor man, Bunyan became popular during the restoration of King Charles II, during which time those who would not conform to the church of England were arrested. In January of 1661, Bunyan was thrown into jail with the opportunity to be released if only he stopped his preaching, which he declined. In a stunning reversal, by the age of 59, Bunyan had become one of England’s most famous authors. In 1688, while riding through heavy rain to reconcile a father and son, he became ill and died. Much of the greatness Bunyan produced was born out of times of great difficulty and struggle. We are reminded that God has a plan for each of our lives. We must trust in Him and learn to not despise the difficulty He places before us. Then, the guys touch on prayer as one of the most difficult practices of Christians. We are reminded that God is a God who both listens and speaks. In closing, listeners are urged to run to Jesus and be forgiven. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 126Ep. 125 - How to Reach Those Who Have Strayed From the FaithIn today's episode, the guys discuss how to reach those who have strayed from the faith. The majority of people who have “backslidden” actually had a false conversion to begin with. This does not refer to the times in which a Christian struggles with his faith. There are many, unfortunately, who profess to know Christ but really do not. The longer we walk with the Lord, the more stories like this we will be able to recall. There are gateway sins which open the door to stray further from God. Someone who has strayed may find themselves in the position of wondering how they got to the place in which they find themselves. In the book of John, Jesus speaks of sin as an addictive behavior. The way to put sin to death is by looking to the Cross. Only God can offer us the strength to write off the things which rob us of our everlasting joy. Research shows that 85% of Americans pray. However, most of these prayers tend to be selfish rather than giving glory to God. The prayers of the righteous, however, are angled towards the glory of God rather than the glory of man. It is important to acknowledge that many people who stray from their faith have been hurt by their church. When a pastor falls, for example, it causes many people's faith to be rattled and confusing. For these people, we are called to be the rod of God and bring these lost people home by listening, understanding, and empathizing. We must go after people with the heart of Christ, welcoming others back to the faith. Similarly, we should be very careful of the judgmental spirit which may creep into us as the result of watching someone stray. Listeners are reminded that online pastors are not a replacement for having a local church of your own. The Bible often equates sin to not living. Then, listeners are offered points of self-reflection for consideration to determine if they are in danger of a backslide of their own. Finally, we receive valuable advice on how to avoid a potential backslide and reestablish our faith and relationship with God. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 127Ep. 126 - How to Handle Criticism and CorrectionIn today's episode, the guys discuss how to handle criticism and correction. Though the word “criticism” often comes with a negative connotation, we are reminded that criticism can be constructive, too. When it does come our way, the very first thing we should do is slow down and consider the source. Coming from a loving friend or family member who cares for you, criticism should always hit deeper than when coming from someone you are not close to. We all need someone in our lives who is not impressed by us, who God can use to sanctify us and offer constructive criticism. When that person approaches you with loving correction, you should listen. We can often find ourselves undone based on the criticism we have received. However, it is important to consider the substance and truth of the criticism. We should practice seeking truth rather than defending rights. The reason we usually don’t like criticism is a result of our pride, but as believers, criticism can be beneficial when we are in the right mindset to receive it. This can go the other direction, too, when it comes to giving constructive criticism to someone else. When we are correcting someone, we should do it with humility and gentleness because we don’t always have the full picture of what might be going on. These instances can be viewed as the opportunity to have a loving conversation with somebody so the truth may be revealed. It is crucial to remember that everything in our life in terms of our conduct boils down to the fruit of the Spirit and of love. When we correct without seeking our own, it is out of consideration of 3 things: the person has sinned against God, hurt themselves, and hurt others from undermining the testimony of the gospel. In this case, we’re seeking the best not for ourselves, but for God and others. The only way to achieve this selflessness is through patience, time with the Word, and prayer. Finally, we are urged to be open and receiving of correction which comes from a place of love. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 128Ep. 127 - How to Experience Personal RevivalIn today's episode, the guys discuss how to experience personal revival. Personal revival, E.Z. explains, is gained by coming back to the things that put you in the place of understanding that Christ is the center of it all. In this state, a person has integrated Christ into every area of their lives rather than living by compartmentalization. This comes from having a hunger and thirst for righteousness and being in the presence of God. Simply put, there is no global or national revival without personal revival. Oftentimes, we can go about our Christian lives and duties but forget that the primary reason the church exists is to be a tabernacle of witness. If we want to be effective, we must present our bodies as a living sacrifice to God and not hold anything back. The miracle of personal revival is that we love doing the acts God wants us to do. Part of the challenge for many is the lack of obedience and short attention span. Discipleship, however, requires daily discipline and unwavering obedience. Once we begin to practice obedience despite how we feel or are being told, we begin to be revived. Next, hear about some ways we as believers can stir up our own personal revivals. It is crucial for every Christian to understand that we would not be alive if not for God’s grace. Because God has given us this life, we owe Him everything. Despite its connotation, repentance is one of the most beautiful words because it is a sign of hope and the potential for forgiveness. Repentance is always connected to a change of behavior. A liturgy, for example, is a spiritually-forming habit. One of the main characteristics of historically great men of God is that they all had discipline. It is important to realize that the things we place the most value on will impact how we behave. One can obtain discipline by realigning our value system to coincide with God’s value system. Our daily habits are a way of realigning our compasses. Spending time in God’s word, prayer, and devotion will realign your compass and make sure you are pointing towards heaven. In closing, we are reminded that devotion is not just a daily ritual lasting a few minutes, but the act of submitting ourselves completely to God. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 129Ep. 128 - What’s the Significance of Communion?In today's episode, the guys discuss communion and how this practice is extremely central to faith. They talk about how communion is a sacred doctrine and how this sacrament symbolizes a recognition and renewal of a covenant with Him. Communion is also viewed differently in various denominations of faith. In Catholicism, they believe in transubstantiation, that the bread and wine physically change into the body and blood of Christ. Other denominations believe that the elements coexist with the real body and blood, but they don’t believe this actually changes into Jesus’ physical body or blood. There is also an orthodox or reformed view of communion, which says that the spiritual presence of Christ is in and with the elements of communion, but not His physical presence. As Christ followers, they believe they are saved and are continually being saved. This renewal of communion shows that the covenant is equally important today as it was on the first day. Next, the guys talk about how communion has become flippant in some churches and this practice has lost its sacredness. They also discuss the frequency of communion in that we should be taking communion every Sunday. If we teach every Sunday in church, then we need to take communion every Sunday. In the scriptures, the disciples took communion regularly before a meal because that was the precedence that you met on Sunday for a meal, and the meal was communion. Finally, the guys discuss what communion itself means. Communion is the breaking of the bread, which is the meal at the Lord’s table. There is a spiritual significance in that and a chance where you can examine yourself and your heart. Jesus says in regard to communion “do this in remembrance of me.” Communion is all about remembering what Jesus has done for us, what He is currently doing and what He will do in our lives. We also need to remember God’s second coming and what a beautiful privilege that communion is. They also say that communion is a testimony to unbelievers, and an invitation to someday join in this sacred practice. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 130Ep. 129 - How Should Christians React to National Tragedies?In today's episode, the guys discuss national tragedies and how Christians should react to these situations. As a culture, our world is news-fanatic and it’s in our sin nature to want to hear about the bad news. Social media and news outlets built an algorithm that fires us up in anger. They have figured out how to tap into our sin nature and make money off it. It is important to study all sides of the news because every piece of news could be portrayed differently depending on which outlet you are receiving it from. Next, the guys discuss how we as Christians should respond to tragedies and news. First, we should respond with lament, which is a crying out and a longing for the return of Christ. We see countless times in the Bible where songs and poems show lament. It is also normal to ask questions and ask God why when tragedy occurs. They then pose the question: how do you know God’s faithfulness unless you’re put through the ringer? It is an act of worship to ask why, but also to say, “We trust you, Lord, and we simply don't understand.” If unanswered or unrecognized questions in someone's faith builds up, then they will pile up and will create outright doubt in God. Even though it is natural to ask questions, we also need to be careful not to put God on trial. Another good question to ask is: How did Jesus respond to tragedy? Tragedy is a reminder that this is not our home and there won’t be any tragedy in Heaven. In addition, the guys talk about how to help nonbelievers as they walk through tragedy. First, we need to give people the gospel, or good news. You may not think it’s the right time or want to be sensitive to their needs, but it is always the right time to share the gospel. We also need to weep with those who weep. When tragedy happens, there is an invitation to speak into their lives and show sympathy toward their suffering. Constant prayer for wisdom is also key when tragedies happen. C.S. Lewis once said, “Pain is God’s megaphone to arouse a deaf world.” Pain insists on being attended to. When we feel discomfort over and over again, or it gets worse, we have to pay attention to it. This is the same thing with salvation and our soul cries out when we experience tragedies in our lives or witness it in others. Finally, we all have hope as Christians that Jesus will come back and make it right. We need to be informed on the news and understand what's happening in the world, so we can pray for everyone. We are God’s representatives and light in this dark world. Tragedies remind people of their mortality and make them recognize their need for the Savior. Lastly, they discuss how we all need to be the hands and feet of Jesus, but also proclaim the gospel and give all the glory to God. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 131Ep. 130 - How to Discover Your Spiritual GiftsIn today's episode, the guys discuss spiritual gifts and how to discover yours. The Lord gives us gifts that are imperishable and irrevocable for the purpose of His kingdom. Our culture is enamored with the whole theme of purpose, but very few things indicate greater purpose than when God gives something. He gives us spiritual gifts for and with a purpose because He wants us to be a part of His epic story. He has created each one of us uniquely with His gifts for a specific role. God saves us and gives us a commission and the tools to go and complete that commission. Our spiritual gifts are given to us so that we can serve others. There are no unemployed Christians–everyone has a role and needs to be an active participant in the church. When we aren’t active with the gifts that God has given us, we stifle our spiritual growth and joy. Next, the guys talk about how we need to use our spiritual gifts. Identifying our spiritual gifts might limit how, when, and where we serve. The better question is: how can I best serve the people around me? Sometimes, if we believe that we don’t have a certain gift, then we won’t use our abilities to play our part. We should not find identity in the gift, but our identity is in being a child of God. Also, we mistake our spiritual gifts for our fruitfulness. Just because you are good at your gifts, doesn't mean you’re growing in the Lord. The Lord gives us these gifts because He wants us to use them in a specific way. The use of our gifts should be shining His light for His honor, not for ourselves or our glory. Finally, the guys discuss how to identify your spiritual gifts, and they first say you need to understand your own gifts in the context of the local church. There, you can exercise your gifts and try new things, and then receive affirmation on what your spiritual gifts are from preachers, family, and friends. We must not be selfish with our spiritual gifts or jealous of each other. We must be thankful knowing that God knows us and created us for this specific time in history, and to own the role that we get to play in His story. A question to ask yourself is: how can you be prideful of what someone gave you? Every good and perfect gift comes from the Father of Light. We are birthed into the Body of Christ and need to be in community with others. You will see fruit and results by operating that gift. Some of the spiritual gifts the Bible talks about include prophesy or “speaking forth,” ministry or servants of any kind, teaching, exhortation, giving, and leading. Lastly, God does not need us, but He invites us to work with Him because He loves us and wants us to participate in His good work. We can play a role and be on the front lines of His glory in using our spiritual gifts for His purpose. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 132Ep. 131 - What Does it Mean to Have Childlike Faith?In today's episode, the guys discuss having childlike faith and Jesus’ words in Matthew 18:2-4, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus said this in response to the disciples arguing about who would be the greatest in the kingdom, which is a relief because the disciples are so relatable to us. Jesus displayed so much tenderness towards little children. We will always be there for our own children and never leave them, even if we are not pleased by their actions. We can trust in our Heavenly Father like kids trust in their earthly father. There is nothing that can be uncovered to be held against us that hasn’t already been covered by the grace of God. Scripture also tells us that you won’t even enter the kingdom unless you become like a child. It's one thing to know what childlike faith is, but it’s also important to understand what having childlike faith is not. It’s not a rebuttal to answering tough questions. It is not meant to be an excuse to not go deeper into God’s word or with our relationship with God. Having a childlike faith is also not blind or ignorant—as a Christian, we need to always be ready to give an answer for our faith. Rather than remaining ignorant, we must be informed Christians who study God's word. This is where we will see growth and live in wonder of God and all He has done for us. Childlike faith is relational faith in God. Like the trust, care, and confidence children have in their earthly parents, we can rest assured in childlike faith in our Heavenly Father. When you catch a glimpse of God’s character, it is easy to trust in God and believe in His promises. Finally, the guys discuss what childlike faith looks like and the qualities that children have. Children are teachable, trusting, carefree, loving, and have a humble heart. They talk about three qualities in particular: comfortable dependency on the Lord, reverence and respect for authority, and admiration and wonder. It is hard for some adults to respect authority because they want to be the only authority in their lives. Also, we have every reason to be in awe of the Lord. Taking a pause to enjoy God’s creation or contemplate all He has done can help you to keep that awe and wonder. Another reason to be in awe of God is to remember all the times that God has forgiven us and will still use us for His purpose. Our future is secure as Christians and we are forgiven by the only one who truly could condemn us. Children are also very forgiving and quickly forgive others. The last thing the guys discuss is how childlike faith all comes down to belief. We all believe in something, but belief in the Father and His love for us is the only one that will set us truly free. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 133Ep. 132 - How Does a Woman Submit to Her Husband?In today's episode, the guys discuss how women should submit to their husbands. This is a topic which makes many people feel uncomfortable, but is a legitimate question for many Christians. Many people write this topic off completely due to today’s culture. However, when the church becomes a reflection of the culture, we are in big trouble. Submission is not a reflection of inferiority. In fact, Christ consistently submitted to His own father. Part of the reason why so many people cringe at this topic is because we have terrible examples of leadership in the world today. We should never look to modern times for examples of leadership, but rather to Christ and how He led the church. It is valuable to speak about servant leadership just as often as submission. It is pointed out that every good leader is just a follower of someone else. If our wives submit to us, this means that we are submitting to God first and foremost. We often forget how much God emphasizes oneness within marriage. Each of us has the responsibility to fulfill our roles and create the type of atmosphere that will be most conducive for our husband or wife to fulfill their role. The secret to a perfect marriage is for husbands to love their wives as God loved the church and for wives to submit to their husbands and love their children. We are reminded that wives' disobedience to their husbands is nearly blasphemous to God’s Word. Next, the guys offer examples from their own marriages in which submission played a role. To men, submission and leadership should look like your wife joyfully growing and thriving to be more like her Savior. God has created your wife in His image, and she has a unique understanding of what she is bringing into the household. Many times, the husband and wife are working together to understand God’s will for your life and home. Listen as they run through the things which a wife’s submission is not. Submission means that a wife sees herself as part of her husband’s team, supporting his decisions and recognizing that her husband has the authority to make the final choice. Finally, sisters listening are reminded not to feel ashamed to submit to their husbands, but to live the truth of God’s word. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 134Ep. 133 - Can Women Be Pastors?In today's episode, the guys discuss why women may not be pastors. It is not that women don’t have the ability to be pastors, but that God has given the role of a pastor to men. The reality is that women are equally capable of understanding the Word of God and communicating it. In this episode, they don’t aim to diminish the value of women or their spiritual gifts. God commands women to teach other things, including how to serve their husbands and love their children. Today, we have seen a surge in women pastors as the church has become desensitized towards many things. Rather than devaluing women and their contributions, it is important to recognize that Jesus elevated women in ways that had never been seen before. He was “pro women” to the max, but he simply didn’t choose them to be apostles. Women ought to be built up in their theological understanding of God’s Word and truth and should be equipped and guided in their spiritual gifts. However, the Scriptures make it clear that men have the role of a pastor. When it comes to God’s design for the church, the Bible does not miss a single word or point. This is a topic which has caused the rest of the world to look confusedly at the church. There are some things in the Bible which are difficult to grasp, but we must be careful that the things which are plain and simple are widely accepted. The world’s culture really wants to blur the lines between men and women, but the Scriptures embrace the beauty and reality that men and women have specific roles in the church and the home. This should not be seen as a restriction, but rather an invitation to reflect the glory of God. There is beauty in God’s intent to make even the details of the organization of the church speak to His glory and the roles of the Trinity. Similarly, the public can tell when the church is not conceding to God’s commandments. In closing, they reiterate that God restricts women from serving in certain leadership roles and instead calls them to serve in equally important and complementary roles. We should rejoice over the fact that God has called different people to serve different functions. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 135Ep. 134 - Do Christians Really Have to Tithe?In today's episode, the guys discuss tithing. Unfortunately, it is a common misconception that Christian churches are money-hungry and selfish, but is it really true? We are commanded to tithe in Scripture, but for what purpose, and is it still required today? The guys share a story about a pastor who decided to stop passing around an offering plate because he saw that the majority of the congregation were giving either out of guilt or spontaneity. Then, they dive into the scriptural instructions for giving as Christians. This is a topic which is quite controversial within the church. The first time we see tithing referenced in the Bible is in Genesis 14, when Moses tithes to Melchizedek. The American way of looking at money is very capitalistic and industrial. However, a Biblical way of viewing finances is that all the things we own belong to the Lord, and we are simply stewards of those things. The Lord gives us stewardship over His things, and we should rejoice in gratitude that He allows us to enjoy a portion of it. In the Old Testament, tithe was given to the priests for the upkeep of the chapel so that there were goods for offering, as well as charitable tithes every third year. Many scholars would argue that tithing is no longer a requirement because it is a Mosaic Law. However, the New Testament calls us to give generously out of stewardship to the preaching of God’s word, the building up of God’s Kingdom, and to those in need. Our response for the love which God has shown us is to give back to Him without hesitation all that we have. God judges what we give by what we keep for ourselves. Giving is the best way to fully demonstrate our love for others, and God Himself loves the cheerful giver. The key is that our giving should reorient our hearts to the great Giver in Heaven. As the episode wraps up, they reiterate that there is not one set amount which believers are required to give. We are also reminded that the Biblical doctrine of generosity is completely antithetical to the customs of modern times. For anyone feeling shame around the fact that they have not been generous enough, you are urged to look towards God and understand that it was He who never held back a thing. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 136Ep. 135 - Can Christians Use Self-Defense?In today's episode, the guys discuss whether Christians should engage in self-defense. We read in Matthew 5:38-39, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” Jesus was speaking to the issue of retribution when He said this. According to the Old Testament law, this was considered equal retribution. He was not being literal in this verse—he was talking about the principle. This “slap” could also be referred to as an insult and not a physical act. We need to be careful in thinking that the most loving thing we can do is to turn the other cheek. We must have wisdom and ask God for guidance in all situations, especially regarding insults or harm from other people. When considering violence, we can look towards Jesus’ teaching and His reaction to persecution as examples. Christ rebuked Peter when he cut off the ear of a high priest because Peter was interfering with God’s ordained plan, and instead taught his disciples to be nonviolent in the face of persecution. The guys discuss Augustine’s theory of a “just war” and the concept that war can be waged for the protection of others. Modern-day pacifism calls for individuals to lay down and let others walk all over them, but the scriptures call us to carefully consider the image-bearing qualities of one another as well as ourselves in order to correctly measure our response to others. As Christians, we are not expected to be passive or unresponsive when someone is trying to insult or hurt us or our family. It is our responsibility to care for the needs of our family and ourselves, and to help those who have a need or are in a weakened position. Psalm 82:3 states, “Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.” We need to cautiously consider every situation and exercise discretion, since not all situations are the same. Lastly, the guys share some practical advice. First, you should not put yourself in dangerous or tempting situations. If you are ever questioned by the police, you should never answer questions unless there is a lawyer present—even if you are innocent. When driving, just get into the slow lane and let other vehicles go by. We must use discretion in the context of persecution and seek the Lord on how to conduct ourselves. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 137Ep. 136 - How to Avoid Satan’s Biggest TrapsIn today's episode, the guys discuss Satan tactics and traps for us as Christians. In order to defeat your enemy, you must know who your enemy is, and one of the biggest tactics of the devil is to make us forget that he is the enemy. The devil desires to be like God, and since he can’t be he will imitate anything that God does. Therefore, things that Satan is associated with are made to seem good. For example, have you ever started to read the Bible or pray, but then you get distracted by your phone? Satan is at work to distract you with anything else so that you won’t seek righteousness. He lures you with desires that pull you away from the glory of God. This is illustrated in C.S. Lewis’ book, “Screwtape Letters,” which illustrates the devil’s demons and how they are called to distract and dismantle Christians in any way possible. 2 Corinthians 2:11 states, “Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” Satan has schemes, methods, and devices to make us fail, but we are not to give him a foothold. Being aware of his schemes makes it easier to resist the devil so he flees from us. One of his traps is luring us away from the simplicity that is found in Christ. Simplicity is found in the gospel, but the devil has been studying man for thousands of years and knows what will trip you up. Charles Taylor points out that man was created to worship, and the devil wants us to shift our worship of God to other lowercase gods including our nation, family, politics, sex, or sexuality. These powers of the age lure us into thinking that the things of this world are the answer when the only answer to our fallen world is the gospel. Next, the guys discuss the second trap of the devil, which is trying to look spiritual or godly. Our world and culture have this mindset that “It’s all about me.” But when you become a Christian, you are to give up all your rights and make your life about Jesus and others. We all have gardens in our hearts where we need to pull out the weeds and plant flowers of righteousness in their place. For example, if you have the weed of pride, you can plant the flower of humility. Planting the opposite flower will help you get rid of those weeds, and this is made possible by having God’s love in your heart. We focus so much on assuming a defensive posture, but when we go on the offensive instead and do righteousness, that will make the devil flee. When we are walking in the Spirit and on guard, we will more easily recognize his schemes. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 138Ep. 137 - How to Cultivate Healthy Friendship, Fellowship, and AccountabilityIn today's episode, the guys discuss how to cultivate healthy fellowship, friendship, and accountability. Many of us, when we come to Christ, believe that all our non-believer friends won’t stick with us. This is part of the price of discipleship. There is, however, something steeped in a gospel community which non-believer friendships can never recreate. In a world where people are constantly trying to create community in every realm, most people are so starved of the sanctifying processes of lifelong friendships centered around the gospel. If you want friends, you first have to be friendly and reach out to others yourself. We are reminded that Jesus referred to his disciples as his friends, even Judas. Friendship includes a closeness in which two people are intimate and open with each other. True discipleship, historically, consists of spending time on a regular, continual basis with someone who is older and wiser than yourself. Sometimes, people’s experience at church can morph into a facade. However, individuals are encouraged to gain understanding of the true value of fellowship and seek it out on their own. This enables them to move out of facade and into authentic behavior, which in turn helps to cultivate authentic relationships. We should keep in mind that there are things which God wants for our lives, even if we don’t think we want them. It all comes down to being—or becoming—the kind of person that will cause people to gravitate towards you. There is a difference between godly friendships and friendships with non-believers for the sake of the gospel. Love wants to meet the greatest needs, and the greatest need for anyone unsaved is the gospel. We must make ourselves available during regular day-to-day interactions with our non-Christian acquaintances and neighbors, or they will likely never know that our door is always open when they are in need. A hallmark of fellowship is the willingness to live your lives side-by-side in good times and bad. Finally, we are reminded that true Christian fellowship includes openness and accountability on both sides. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 139Ep. 138 - How to Stop Being Men-PleasersIt is natural to want to be friends with and seek approval from our peers, but how far is too far? In today's episode, the guys discuss how to stop being “men-pleasers.” The Bible shows us that there are two fears: the fear of men and the fear of God. If you live your entire life trying to please others, it’s like continually trying to hit a moving target. People's expectations are always fleeting, and this will be a never-ending battle that will leave you exhausted and empty. Men are wicked and sinful, and our love for heroes is fragile. We see this reflected in the suicide rates of celebrities, who are so accustomed to pleasing men that when the favor of fans falls apart, they lose their identity and worth. It is impossible to please both man and God. Galatians 1:10 states, “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” If we are trying to please men, we can’t please God. All the satisfaction that you need has been placed on the cross. God knows, loves, and accepts you because He made you, and all the approval you need is from Him. Next, the guys discuss a hypothetical situation where something could be pleasing to both men and God. In these cases, we should examine our motive. Pleasing the Lord should be the heartbeat of everything we do. Desiring the approval of men is also a form of worship, because worship is anything that we prioritize above God. Out of a desire to “fit in,” we become imitators of those around us, which exposes us to the danger of an identity crisis. If we try to be like other people in this fallen world, we become like a fallen creature ourselves, where pleasing people prevents us from accomplishing God’s purpose for our life. We must choose to be who God made us to be, so we can glorify Him and share the gospel with others. If the apostles in the Bible tried to please men instead of God, then they would not have been martyred for their faith. The guys discuss John F. Kennedy and John Lennon who were worshiped by the world. But when they lost their lives, the big question isn’t how handsome or rich or famous they were, but were their sins forgiven? People-pleasing may be seen as a “respectable sin,” but it is still a sin that creeps up secretly, unannounced and unnoticed. To keep this sin in check, we must be proactive in overcoming it. The guys suggest praying preventative prayers multiple times a day, studying and memorizing scripture, and reading books. If you don't act to change something, then that's evidence that you don't really want to overcome it. When we recognize our weakness, it drives us to God. We are not to serve ourselves or our culture—we are commanded to keep the Kingdom of God in the forefront of our minds and examine ourselves if we are to be true and faithful servants to the Lord. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 140Ep. 139 - How to Deal with Unwanted ThoughtsIn today's episode, the guys discuss how to deal with unwanted thoughts. Thoughts are silent, invisible voices in our heads that hold great power, and are often a window into what's going on in our heart. If you’re not meditating on truth through God’s word, you’re going to believe that lies are true. In the Bible, Philippians 4:8 states, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Our thoughts give birth to either things of the Lord or sin. When sin begins in our mind, we need to attack it and then reorient our thoughts to the Lord. Colossians 3:2 states, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” We need to set our mind on things above because every action starts with a thought.What about the struggle with unwanted thoughts that pop into our heads? If we struggle with gambling, we avoid going to the casino. But these unwanted thoughts fly into our heads without warning. For these, we need to remember our thoughts are not just coming from ourselves, but also come from the enemy. There is a spiritual war going on right now over your mind. When these thoughts pop up, we need to not dwell on them but let them leave our head just as quickly as they came in. The issue is when we determine not to let them go. We fight these thoughts and spiritual warfare by attacking them with scripture. When we fill our mind with God’s word, we can march forward on our knees and defeat the enemy.The change in our thought life starts with an investment in knowing God’s word, which comes from meditating on scripture day and night. It is vital that we fear the Lord, because if you don’t fear God, then you won't cast those sins or thoughts out. Temptation will be part of our lives for the rest of our time on Earth, but we need to detox our mind and stop going back to the catalysts that trigger these sinful thoughts. Your thoughts are not really unwanted if you’re consuming or looking at things that cause those thoughts to pop up in your mind. These thoughts will continue to torment you unless you change what you are consuming. The average person consumes 6,000 to 10,000 ads a day by their own choice. You can choose what you look at. If you are unsatisfied with your thoughts, is it possible that you've been starving yourself of the word of the Lord? Do not be self-deceived but know that the cause of our unwanted thoughts is likely due to ourselves. However, God can cleanse our minds and give us new thoughts if we ruminate on His word, attack these thoughts with scripture and choose what we consume each day. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 141Ep. 140 - Lessons from the Life of NoahIn today's episode, the guys kick off their mini-series of character studies by discussing the life of Noah. Before diving into today’s character study, we are reminded that God has given us these stories through His Word so that we may find hope and comfort in them. Noah was the first-born son of Lamech, who represents the 10th generation of man on the earth. At age 480, God commanded Noah to build an ark. As we look through the Scriptures, it becomes apparent that God sovereignly chooses who He chooses despite who they are. Noah had the grace of God which he did not personally deserve, merit, or earn. However, amid the mocking of his people, Noah responded to God’s command and followed through. He leveraged his entire life on an unforeseen promise of God that the flood was going to come. In the story of Noah comes the lesson that we too need to be quick to respond when God speaks. Because God’s law is the byproduct of His nature, the law of God has been written on man’s heart as we are all made in His image. Noah is a foreshadow of what is to come. We are to proclaim the righteousness of Christ and herald His name as far as we can for people to get right. Eventually, a day of reckoning will come. In fact, all the characters we will be discussing in this series are a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ. Like Jesus, Noah faithfully responds to God’s call in the face of persecution and builds a ship out of wood and nails to be rescued from judgment. Ultimately, Jesus was the better Noah because Noah was, at the end of his life, found drunk and naked and cursing his own son without offering forgiveness. Jesus was stripped naked, drank from the cursed cup, and prayed for our forgiveness so that we too may be sons of God. We are reminded that we should all move throughout our lives in Godly fear, recognizing just how close we are to standing in front of the Lord and giving account for our lives. In a world which is growing darker, Christians have the ability to extort the text to get people to respond in faith to the righteous call of God until Christ eventually comes back to reign. To those who God may use them mightily, the guys offer closing advice. We continually will have war and struggle, yet God will continually be faithful even when we are faithless in order to complete His mission. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 142Ep. 141 - Lessons from the Life of AbrahamIn this episode, the guys discuss the father of God’s chosen people, Abraham, and his faith in God. He fathered Isaac, who fathered Jacob, which led to Jesus and the disciples. We cannot understand the New Testament without understanding Abraham. Jesus offered freedom to the Jewish people, but they claimed they were already free because they were the sons and daughters of Abraham. What they did not realize is that Jesus was there to fulfill not the covenant of Abraham, but God’s covenant with his people through Jesus’ sacrifice. First, the guys discuss Abraham’s story. He came from a pagan background and had no idea where he was going when God told him to leave his father’s house, but he answered the call of God. Abraham was 75 years old when God called him to leave his home, 86 when he fathered Ishmael, 99 when he was circumcised, and then 100 when Isaac was born. His life shows us that God’s timetable is not our timetable. It is so easy for us to get worked up and to not understand why God didn't answer our prayer. Ecclesiastes 3:11 states, “He has made everything beautiful in its time.” God will bring about His promises, but it may not be in our timing. Abraham’s name was first “Abram” meaning “high father,” then he went to “Abraham” meaning “father of a multitude.” After years of waiting and then finally receiving the promised son Isaac, God asks Abraham to offer Isaac up as a sacrifice. As heir, the first-born son was very important in the family. They were usually viewed as a prized possession and would carry on the legacy and provide for the family. God calls him to offer up Isaac as a sacrifice to challenge the potential idolatry in his heart. Abraham goes up the mountain with no other sacrifice except his son, and then God stops Abraham from killing Isaac. Abraham was strong in his faith and his faith brought glory to God. The guys use the metaphor of marriage to explain this. When Ray talks about his wife and how he completely believes in her faithfulness, others know of her integrity. If he proclaimed the opposite of her, it would be an immediate insult to her integrity if he didn’t trust her. The same is true with God. When we have faith in God and talk about his faithfulness, it proclaims His goodness and character to others. It’s also important to note that Abraham did not have blind faith, but his faith was built on substance. In those days, as part of forming a covenant with someone, animal carcasses would be cut and lined up. Then, you would walk between the lines of carcasses, which would represent what would happen to you if you broke the covenant. The servant passes through the carcasses by themselves, or the servant and master walk through together–the master never goes through by themselves but that’s exactly what we see God do here. We’ve only seen a man go into a “deep sleep” twice in the Bible. Once when Adam sleeps and wakes into the covenant of marriage, and then the second time when Abraham falls into a deep sleep and enters into a marriage-like covenant with God. God is saying through this that He will take on the consequences of the broken covenant, and we see this later when Jesus becomes the carcass broken in two and is sacrificed on the cross. Even when he was told to kill his son, Abraham remained faithful to the Lord. This shows that anyone can exercise faith in God. You don't need to know everything that someone is doing to have faith in them. There is a relational element of faith in believing God is who He says He is, as well as what you have seen yourself. This act of sacrifice with Isaac shows us that there’s nothing we should hold onto above God. We need to place our idolization on the giver, not on the gift. However, Abraham still made some mistakes. Abraham was promised by God that he would have a multitude of descendants, but his wife, Sarah, was barren. He tried to fulfill the promise himself by having a baby with Hagar,Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 143Ep. 142 - Lessons from the Life of JosephIn today's episode, the guys discuss the lessons to be learned from the life of Joseph, one of the most influential characters of the Old Testament. We are reminded that God intended for us to learn lessons from these stories and give us hope through His Word. In Genesis 37:3, we are told that Jacob loved Joseph more than any of his other sons because he had been born to him in his old age. This offended Joseph’s brothers and the rainbow tunic Jacob made for him only made his brothers resent him even more. The guys discuss the role of favoritism in families and the many responsibilities and expectations which tend to fall on the sons. The hatred of Joseph’s brothers took them so far as throwing him in a pit and nearly killing him for revenge. Jealousy of man, they reveal, is complete insanity. It is important to distinguish the jealousy of man vs. the jealousy of God. When God is jealous on our behalf, it is for our good and protection. The root of man’s jealousy is selfishness and the inability to rejoice for others. This is often birthed out of being discontented in who God has made us and what He has allotted for our lives. Joseph’s story is not dissimilar to the story of Adam in the garden. As Adam was given stewardship over the garden and everything in it but one tree, Joseph was given stewardship over the entirety of Potter's property except for his wife. Though Adam was tempted and fell, Joseph resisted the temptation. Through Joseph’s faithfulness, God provided a way of saving the land from famine. The story of the Bible is not a collection of individual stories, but rather one sovereign story of God sovereignly saving a people for His glory. Genesis 50:20-21 and Genesis 45:5 are the two verses which help us fully understand the story of Joseph. These verses show Joseph’s belief that God was intimately involved in everything that happened to him. He understood that he had no right to vengeance because he was not God. Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
- 144Ep. 143 - Lessons From the Life of MosesIn this episode, the guys discuss Moses and his story. Moses is known as a pillar of faith. He was born in a time when Pharaoh, the King of Egypt, was out to destroy the children of Israel, so Moses’ mother hid him for 3 months. They placed him in a basket in a river where Pharaoh's daughter found him and brought him up as her own. Moses grew up with the Egyptians as the son of Pharaoh. When he later finds himself in Midian after killing a man, Moses helps some girls being harassed by shepherds, and then eventually marries one of the women. Next, they discuss the burning bush and how Moses took his shoes off because he was on holy ground. The flames did not consume the bush. Likewise, Moses was able to stand in the presence of the God who is a consuming fire but doesn’t get consumed himself. This moment is the turning point for an incredible change in Moses. We see Moses transform from a prideful, arrogant man who tries to take control and power in Egypt, to a humble man who knows he has no power without God. However, Moses pushed back with God by giving excuses for why he could not save his people. Exodus 4:10-13 states, “Moses said to the Lord, ‘Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.’ The Lord said to him, ‘Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.’ But Moses said, ‘Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.’” God’s angered burned toward Moses because of his response, and He could’ve evaporated Moses but chose not to. The challenges and doubts that Moses faced in life are an example for us. Every trial we face pushes us to the cross and causes us to remember that it’s not about us, but about God. Witnesses also don’t need to be eloquent; we just need to repeat what we’ve seen and heard. The plagues start in Egypt when Pharaoh does not let his people go. These plagues include water changing to blood, frogs, flies, hail, and then finally, the killing of every first-born son. Usually, it takes the removal of our most prized possession to bring us to our knees. Pharaoh also could’ve killed Moses, but this shows God’s hand of protection over Moses. It’s a beautiful reminder that when God’s hand is upon you, you don’t need to fear. He will do what He needs to do to use you for His glory. They also talk about how the plagues are the Egyptians’ ramification of idolatry. Once Pharaoh finally lets the people go, he changes his mind and chases after them. Then, God shows His glory when He parts the Red Sea and delivers His people, while Pharaoh and his men get swallowed up by the sea. This displays the faithfulness of God in contrast to a faithless people. It is also a key moment in the story which represents baptism, a new change and covenant with God. Next, Moses writes the 10 Commandments according to the Lord. This written law is deeply relational and teaches the people about the character of God. Moses does not make it into the Promised Land himself but is able to see it in the distance. They also discuss Moses’ interceding between God and the people, and making atonement for them over and over again. God builds these people into a nation, and does so in part through Moses.Send us Fan MailThanks 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 ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
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