The Hero of the Story

Look Happy, it’s the End (and New Beginning) of the World [Ep. 280] Aug 25, 2021

Is it the end of the world as we know it? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The good news of Revelation 19-22 and the new heaven and new earthWhat the new creation doesn’t mean (and why that matters as much as what it does)How...

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Christians in Society [Ep. 279] Aug 23, 2021

What is the world coming to these days? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture demonstrates the importance of social concern from a Christian perspectiveHow social concern relates to our mission of making disciplesWhy we must make a distinction between evangelistic work...

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Why the Family Matters [Ep. 278] Aug 19, 2021

Does the family matter? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture demonstrates the importance of family relationshipsWhy we need to uphold the ideal and language of family, even when our experience falls shortWhat we need to understand about the language of submission...

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The Real Message of Revelation [Ep. 277] Aug 16, 2021

Is the book of Revelation easier to understand than we think? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The central theme of Revelation 5 and its connection to the rest of the bookWhy it matters that only Jesus is worthy of worshipHow this vision gives us...

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The Importance of Baptism for the Believer [Ep. 276] Aug 12, 2021

Why does baptism matter? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture demonstrates the importance of baptismWhy we must maintain the gospel as the grounds for baptismWhy Christians who might disagree around the timing and method of baptism still agree on its importanceHow...

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The Useful Christian [Ep. 275] Aug 09, 2021

Is it better to be hot or cold? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: An overview of the seven letters to the seven churches addressed in RevelationThe uniqueness of Jesus’ words to the Laodicean churchCommon misunderstandings of the description of a preference for being hot...

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The Church, God, and His People [Ep. 274] Aug 05, 2021

Who are these people? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where and why the church is referred to as the people of God in ScriptureWhy we shouldn’t see this understanding of the church as something entirely newThe importance of distinguishing between the universal...

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An Apocalyptic Primer [Ep. 273] Aug 02, 2021

Why can’t we skip Revelation? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of Revelation to the story of Scripture and how to correctly pronounce its nameThe basics of apocalyptic literatureWhat other parts of the Bible are referenced in and inform Revelation itselfHow this passage...

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The World, the *World,* and the Gospel [Ep. 272] Jul 29, 2021

Does the world hate God? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Scripture’s multifaceted use of the word “world”Where see this doctrine in the BibleWhy the world’s opposition to God should not be the cause of hopelessness among His peopleHow this doctrine relates to...

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How We Contend for the Faith [Ep. 271] Jul 26, 2021

How concerned should we be about false teachers? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The background of Jude’s epistleWhat we should make of Jude’s use of 1 Enoch in his epistleHow false teachers creep into the churchHow it’s possible to be correct in doctrine and...

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Guilt, Shame, and the Gospel [Ep. 270] Jul 22, 2021

Can guilt or shame lead to any kind of good? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture reveals the relationship between guilt and shameHow our fallen nature can lead to a distortion our understanding of what is sinful and what isn’tResponding to...

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Love through Obedience [Ep. 269] Jul 19, 2021

Why should we obey God at all? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The background of 1 John 2 and John’s unique writing styleSome of the different ways “world” is understood in this passageWhy we need to understand the importance of obedience to Christ while...

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Temptation, Sin, and Our Hope in Jesus [Ep. 268] Jul 15, 2021

What’s the difference between sin and temptation? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture reveals the relationship between sin and temptationWhy it’s important to see these as related but not equivalentThe difference between internal and external temptationHow this doctrine relates to the...

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Acceptance, Accommodation, and the Gospel [Ep. 267] Jul 12, 2021

Is there a difference between acceptance and accommodation? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The background of why Paul wrote PhilemonHow to understand the discussion of slavery in the context of this messageWhy we need to recognize the difference between acceptance and accommodationHow this passage...

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Enslaved to What We Love [Ep. 266] Jul 08, 2021

Can we choose not to sin? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture reveals our enslavement to sinWhy we have to be careful in how we understand this enslavementHow this doctrine and our moral responsibility work togetherHow this doctrine relates to the...

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Confidence in the Midst of Hopelessness [Ep. 265] Jul 06, 2021

Is it ever right to say, “I told you so?” That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The overall purpose of the narrative of Acts 7Why we need to be careful about reading in tone to the narrative passages of ScriptureHow God’s promises were a source...

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Sin, the Gospel, and Why We’re So Selfish [Ep. 264] Jul 01, 2021

Why are we so selfish? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture reveals the connection between selfishness and sinThe difference between being wholly and ultimately selfishHumility as a response to selfishness (and the origin of an oft-quoted saying about what humility is)How...

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Preaching to Those Who Don’t Want to Hear [Ep. 263] Jun 28, 2021

Is there ever a time to not share the gospel? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The intent of the narrative of Acts 24-26Why it’s important to be aware of the length time that passes over the course of chapters in the BibleHow we should...

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What it Means to Be Born Again [Ep. 262] Jun 24, 2021

How can anyone be born when he is old? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture reveals the nature of regeneration and how people already living can be born againWhy it’s okay to be confused by this doctrineWhy some debates around the...

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The Goal of Imitation and a Model of Repentance [Ep. 261] Jun 21, 2021

Can imitation be a good thing? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The call to be imitators in Philippians 3Whether or not this passage genuinely serves as a call to use saltier languageWhy Paul would consider all his former achievements as worthlessHow this passage points...

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Being Sorry vs Being Repentant [Ep. 260] Jun 17, 2021

Is it enough to be sorry? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture reveals the nature of and the continuing need for repentanceWhy this doctrine represents more than a one-time-only actionHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live in...

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God’s Gift to Dead People [Ep. 259] Jun 14, 2021

How dead is dead? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why Ephesians 2 is such good news for us allWhat it means to be “dead in sins and trespasses”How we should understand God’s gift as described in verses 8 and 9How this passage points us...

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Someday You’ll Really Be Your Best [Ep. 258] Jun 10, 2021

Are we the best we will ever be? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture shows us the end goal of our sanctification: glorificationWhy we need to embrace the truth that we will never achieve glorification in our life on earth (unless...

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Wisdom Exemplified in Opposition [Ep. 257] Jun 07, 2021

Should we take advantage of the benefits of our earthly citizenships? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Paul’s wisdom in pitting the Pharisees and Sadducees against one anotherWhy it’s not wrong to use the benefits our earthly citizenships offerHow Paul’s situation before the Sanhedrin parallels...

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The Source & Foundation of Reconciliation with God [Ep. 256] Jun 03, 2021

How did Christ’s death affect humanity’s relationship with God? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture describes Jesus’ death as reconciling us to GodWhy we need to recognize that this reconciliation is not automaticThe forensic and practical senses of reconciliationHow this doctrine...

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Jesus, Spiritual Warfare, and Lucky Charms [Ep. 255] May 31, 2021

Should we use Jesus’ name as a lucky charm? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why it’s important to ask people—both professing believers and non-Christians alike—questions about faithHow this passage points us to the gospel and encourages us as disciple makers Listen now on Apple...

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God’s Wrath, Satisfied [Ep. 254] May 27, 2021

Why did Jesus die on the cross? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture describes Jesus’ death on the cross as a propitiation, or atoning sacrifice, for our sinsThe ways that we should (and should not) understand this truthWhy Jesus’ death should...

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The Good News About the Day of the Lord [Ep. 253] May 24, 2021

Do we need to worry about the Day of the Lord? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why the Day of the Lord factors so significantly into 1 ThessaloniansWhat we can learn about Christian beliefs based on the dating of this letterHow sensationalism has hurt...

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Hell, Judgment, and the Gospel [Ep. 252] May 20, 2021

Is Hell real? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture speaks of the nature of hell and the purpose of eternal judgmentWhy we need to embrace the reality of hell, despite the discomfort it causes usHow this doctrine relates to the gospel...

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The Purpose of the Law and Defending the Gospel [Ep. 251] May 17, 2021

Is the Law bad? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Paul’s offense at the Galatians abandoning of the gospel in Galatians 3What the purpose of the Law isWhy we should not use Paul’s harshness about false teaching as license to do likewiseHow this passage points...

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What We Can (and Can’t) Know About the Second Coming [Ep. 250] May 13, 2021

What do we know about Christ’s return? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture speaks of the return of ChristThe different views on the second coming and meaning of the millenniumHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live in...

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The Value of Being Culturally Conversant [Ep. 249] May 10, 2021

Should we engage the culture (and if so, how)? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How we see Paul use Greek philosophy and culture to proclaim the gospel in Acts 17What the public religious practices of the people of Athens revealWhat it means to be...

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God’s Spirit Dwelling with (and within) God’s People [Ep. 248] May 06, 2021

Does God really live within His people? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture describes God’s people as the temple of the Holy SpiritThe importance of the indwelling of the Holy SpiritThe difference between the Spirit’s presence with people in the Old...

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Handling Disagreement and Uniting in the Essentials [Ep. 247] May 03, 2021

How do we handle theological disagreement? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the conversion of Gentiles began to concern Jewish Christians in the early days of the churchThe significance the unity of of Paul, Peter, and James in the debate over whether or not...

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One Body, United in Love and Purpose [Ep. 246] Apr 29, 2021

How united should the church be? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture describes the church as Christ’s bodyHow this extended metaphor should affect how we see the ways we serve in our churchesWhy leaders in the church matter and their role...

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Guarding the Gospel [Ep. 245] Apr 26, 2021

How do we guard the gospel? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why Paul wrote concerning these matters in 2 Timothy 1:1-2:13To whom the gospel is entrusted, both in the church and beyondWhy we need to distinguish between primary, secondary, and tertiary matters of faith...

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A Kingdom of Priests, not a Kingdom with Priests [Ep. 244] Apr 22, 2021

Do we still need priests to intercede for us today? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture reveals the priesthood of the believerHow this doctrine changes our understanding of our relationship with other believersWhy we need to avoid seeing pastors as having...

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The Foolishness of the Gospel [Ep. 243] Apr 19, 2021

How can the gospel be called foolishness? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The major concerns that motivated the writing of 1 CorinthiansThe danger of factions and division within the churchHow and why the gospel would be considered foolish by anyoneHow this passage points us...

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The Meaning and Purpose of Edification [Ep. 242] Apr 15, 2021

How was Christ exalted? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture shows us the meaning and intention of edificationHow edification includes encouragement, but goes well beyond thatHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live in the world Listen now...

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Confronting Opposition with Gospel Conviction [Ep. 241] Apr 12, 2021

Why can we trust God in difficult situations? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of prayer and fasting in commissioning missionaries If Paul’s response to Elymas’s rejection of the gospel—and his attempts to prevent others from believing it—was too harsh (and whether or...

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How God Exalted Jesus [Ep. 240] Apr 08, 2021

How was Christ exalted? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture describes Jesus’ exaltationWhy we need to pay attention to this doctrine, especially in relationship with Jesus’ humiliationHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live in the world Listen...

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Peter, Prison, and Trusting God [Ep. 239] Apr 05, 2021

Why can we trust God in difficult situations? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Peter’s peaceful approach to imprisonment in Acts 12Why he seemed to doubt his escapeIf people have guardian angels How this passage points us to the gospel and encourages us as disciple...

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How Jesus Humbled Himself [Ep. 238] Apr 01, 2021

How did Christ humble Himself? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture describes Jesus’ humiliationWhy we would use a word like “humiliation” in connection with Jesus at allWas Jesus forced to take on human form?How this doctrine relates to the gospel and...

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The Good News of Easter [Ep. 237] Mar 29, 2021

Why is Easter such good news? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Mary’s encounter with Jesus at the empty tomb in John 20Reasons why Mary may not have been able to recognize Jesus until He said her nameHow this passage points us to the gospel...

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Jesus and His Offices, Part 3: The King [Ep. 236] Mar 25, 2021

When will Jesus rule as perfect King? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture describes Jesus as the king of the Jews and as the king of all creationThe already/not yet aspect of Jesus’ kingshipLiving as subjects of Jesus right nowHow this...

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Faith Demonstrated [Ep. 235] Mar 22, 2021

What does it look like to demonstrate your faith? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning of faith according to the book of Hebrews and the examples it puts on displaySome of our stand out examples within the “hall of faith” (and why some...

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Jesus and His Offices, Part 2: The Priest [Ep. 234] Mar 19, 2021

How did Jesus serve as a priest? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture describes the role of a priest and how Jesus fulfills itThe relationship between Jesus and MelchizedekHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live in the...

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Jesus is Better than Everything [Ep. 233] Mar 15, 2021

How is Jesus better? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why the book of Hebrews is definitely near the top of the list of our top 66 books of the BibleWho might have written Hebrews (and why it’s fun to speculate about who it might...

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Jesus and His Offices, Part 1: The Prophet [Ep. 232] Mar 11, 2021

What is the significance of Jesus being called the Word? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture describes the role and function of a prophetHow Jesus being called the Word connects to His fulfillment of the office of prophetJesus being not simply...

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Encouragement and Discernment in Discipleship [Ep. 231] Mar 09, 2021

What does it mean to be discerning? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why are we talking about discernment and encouragement at the same time?What Barnabas shows us about both discernment and encouragement in his relationship with PaulWhy we need to be discerning in the...

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Discipleship & Our Purpose as Christ’s People [Ep. 230] Mar 05, 2021

Why are we here? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How to understand discipleship from a holistic perspectiveWhat it does and does not mean to make disciples (and to be a disciple)How this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live in...

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Who is the Gospel For? [Ep. 229] Mar 01, 2021

Are there people we shouldn’t share the gospel with? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why it is important that Acts 10 and 11 are almost identical (and why it’s not a mistake)Why we need to reject the idea that there are certain people we...

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Being the Bride of Christ [Ep. 228] Feb 25, 2021

What does it mean to be the Bride of Christ? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why the Bible makes this connection between marriage and the gospelWhy this truth needs to frame our understanding of marriage on earthHow this view of our identity...

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Criticism, Sarcasm, and the Gospel [Ep. 227] Feb 22, 2021

Is it wrong to defend yourself against criticism? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Several key questions to explore in 2 Cor. 11Why it may or may not be right to defend oneself against criticismThe danger of being enamored with a person’s skills vs their...

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New Creations with New Identities [Ep. 226] Feb 19, 2021

How does who we were help us understand who we are? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible reveals our new identity as believersHow who we were before we believed in Christ helps us understand who we are now in JesusWhy...

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Seeking the Things Above [Ep. 225] Feb 17, 2021

Can we be so heavenly minded that we are of no earthly good? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: If there’s any truth to the saying that it’s possible to be so heavenly minded that we can be of no earthly goodWhat Paul means when...

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One with Christ [Ep. 224] Feb 11, 2021

What does it mean to be one with Christ? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of being “in Christ”How Scripture reveals and explains this truthThe relationship between being in Christ and being an image bearerHow this doctrine relates to the gospel...

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From Foe to Defender [Ep. 223] Feb 08, 2021

Can the greatest enemy of the gospel really be saved? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: When Saul may have believed the gospelWhy we shouldn’t say that Saul became Paul when he believed the gospel The radical faith of AnaniasHow this passage points us to...

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Working for Unity in the Church [Ep. 222] Feb 05, 2021

Why can’t we all just get along? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance and priority of unity within the ChurchWhy unity doesn’t require uniformityHow and why we need to pursue unityHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live...

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The Perfect Evangelism Opportunity [Ep. 221] Feb 01, 2021

Does God ever give perfect evangelism opportunities? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of getting to the gospel in teaching the Bible without allegorizing the ScripturesWhy we need to obey the nudging of the Holy Spirit when it comes to evangelismWhy there are...

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God’s Role in Evangelism [Ep. 220] Jan 29, 2021

What is God’s role in evangelism? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The central idea calling as it appears in ScriptureThe role of human decision alongside God’s callingHow God’s calling isn’t just to salvation, but a life of holiness nowHow this doctrine relates...

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James vs Justification by Faith [Ep. 219] Jan 25, 2021

Does the book of James contradict justification by faith? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: We dig into James 2 and its relationship to justificationWhy it’s important to interpret Scripture in light of the entirety of Scripture, not simply in isolationHow this passage points us...

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Salvation & God’s Ability to Make Choices [Ep. 218] Jan 22, 2021

Does God have a choice in who is saved? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The central ideas around election as they appear in ScriptureWhy Christians with differing views on this doctrine do not need to divide over itWhy this doctrine is good...

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The Gospel, Romans, and Evangelism [Ep. 217] Jan 18, 2021

What are the major themes of the gospel? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: We explore the major themes of the gospel as presented in RomansHow knowing these themes well can help us as we share the gospel with othersHow this passage points us to...

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The Place of Works in the Christian Life [Ep. 216] Jan 15, 2021

If we are saved by faith, do good works not matter? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of “and” vs “by” in the relationship between justification and good worksWhere we see this truth in ScriptureWhy our works matter, even if they...

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Resisting the Spirit [Ep. 215] Jan 11, 2021

What does it look like to resist the Holy Spirit? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why the Bible devotes so much time to StephenWhy the early church experienced oppositionWhy Stephen’s defense was so powerfulHow this passage points us to the gospel and encourages us...

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The Gospel and Justification by Faith [Ep. 214] Jan 08, 2021

What happens the very instant we trust in Christ? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning of justification by faith and where we see it in ScriptureThe uniqueness of this essential doctrineWhy it changes everything to have God declare us righteous by...

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Giving, Honesty, and Appearances [Ep. 213] Jan 04, 2021

Who is responsible for our growth in godliness? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How we should (and shouldn’t) understand the actions of the early church in Acts 5Why God would strike Ananias and Sapphira dead and if the punishment fit the crimeWhether we’re more...

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Stewardship and the Gospel [Ep. 212] Jan 01, 2021

After giving, does God care what I do with my stuff? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How we see Scripture defining stewardshipWhy we need to be careful in how we approach specific passages related to givingWhy a once-size-fits-all approach to applying the...

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Growing in Godliness [Ep. 211] Dec 28, 2020

Who is responsible for our growth in godliness? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why we’re talking about 2 Peter when we would normally be talking about ActsWhy Peter (and other authors of Scripture) seem to say that both God and people are responsible for...

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Sanctification, Perfection and the Christian Life [Ep. 210] Dec 24, 2020

Will we ever be the followers of Christ we want to be? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How to best understand the doctrine of sanctificationWhere we see this doctrine in ScriptureWhy understanding that we won’t achieve perfection before Christ returns or we...

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Trials and True Citizenship [Ep. 209] Dec 21, 2020

Why does Peter seem to treat trials as a good thing? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why we’re talking about 1 Peter when we would normally be talking about ActsThe importance of being focused on our citizenship in heaven above all othersThe way holy...

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What God Does with Our Sin [Ep. 208] Dec 17, 2020

What happens to our sin when we trust in Christ? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: A few of the places we see the doctrine of imputation in ScriptureWhy this doctrine is good news for believers—and only believersWhy this gift of God both...

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Grace Upon Grace at Christmas [Ep. 207] Dec 14, 2020

If grace is good, does that mean the law is bad? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why John began his gospel with an echo of GenesisWhy the world and God’s people didn’t recognize HimWhy John compares and contrasts Jesus and the LawHow this passage...

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Adoption, the Gospel, and Children of God [Ep. 206] Dec 10, 2020

Are all people children of God? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible describes those who can be called God’s childrenThe reason it’s right and good to think of other believers as brothers and sistersHow this doctrine shapes the core of...

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The Purpose of Praying in Jesus’ Name [Ep. 205] Dec 08, 2020

Is there something significant about saying “in Jesus’ name”? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why Peter and John went to the temple to pray at all following PentecostThe danger of treating Jesus’ name as a magical incantationHow this passage points us to the gospel...

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The Bible & the Personhood of the Holy Spirit [Ep. 204] Dec 03, 2020

Does the Force in Star Wars provide us with a good picture of the Holy Spirit? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible reveals not only the deity but the personhood of the Holy SpiritWhy we can’t confuse being a “person”...

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The Holy Spirit, Pentecost, and the Empowering of the Disciples [Ep. 203] Nov 30, 2020

What happened when the Holy Spirit showed up? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of the day of PentecostDifferent understandings of the disciples speaking different languages in Acts 2Why it was important that the Holy Spirit came the way He didIf Peter really...

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The Bible & the Deity of the Holy Spirit [Ep. 202] Nov 26, 2020

Is the Holy Spirit God to the same degree as the Father and Son? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible reveals the deity of the Holy SpiritWhy we cannot reduce from an equal status as the Father and SonHow this...

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Jesus, Doubt, and the Great Commission [Ep. 201] Nov 23, 2020

Why did some of the disciples doubt before Jesus returned to the Father? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why Jesus’ authority is essential to the great commissionPossible reasons why the disciples may have doubted when Jesus was about to ascend to the FatherWhy we...

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The Holy Spirit and the Christian’s Life [Ep. 200] Nov 19, 2020

Do we need the Holy Spirit’s help? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The different ways Scripture tells us the Holy Spirit is at work in our livesWhy we need to properly recognize the Holy Spirit as God in the way the Bible...

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Jesus, Thomas, and Preparing for the Spirit’s Arrival [Ep. 199] Nov 16, 2020

Is it wrong to want proof of a miracle? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: If Thomas was wrong to ask for evidence of Jesus’ resurrectionThe importance of Jesus telling His disciples, “If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you...

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Evangelism, Words, and Deeds [Ep. 198] Nov 13, 2020

If actions speak louder than words, then isn’t my good living the best evangelism? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible points to the relationship between words and works in evangelismWhy it’s not enough to live good lives in order to...

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How Jesus Teaches Us to Read the Bible [Ep. 197] Nov 09, 2020

How did Jesus teach the Bible? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What it does (and doesn’t) mean to teach the Bible from a Christ-centered perspectiveWhy the disciples on the road to Emmaus didn’t recognize Jesus and what caused them to recognize HimThe importance of...

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Understanding the Mission of the Church [Ep. 196] Nov 05, 2020

Why does the Church exist? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the mission of the church is defined in Scripture and is revealed in its storylineIf we should analogize Judea, Samaria, and the ends of the earthHow this doctrine relates to the...

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Good News at the Empty Tomb [Ep. 195] Nov 02, 2020

When is it better to lose a foot race? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The chronology of the events of Resurrection SundayWhy Mary Magdalene thought Jesus’ body might have been stolen by grave robbersWhy we need to be gracious in reading of Peter and...

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How Much Faith is Enough? [Ep. 194] Oct 30, 2020

What kind of death comes from sin? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What faith is from a Christian perspectiveThe importance of faith in the ScripturesWhy genuine faith is not blind faithHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live in...

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Psalm 22 In Real Life [Ep. 193] Oct 26, 2020

Why did Jesus quote Psalm 22 on the cross? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The danger of chronological snobbery and the importance of humble honesty when reading passages like this Mark 15The “crime” that led to Jesus’ death on the crossThe importance of Psalm...

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Sin, Death, and the Gospel [Ep. 192] Oct 22, 2020

What kind of death comes from sin? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The origin of death in ScriptureWhy it’s important to recognize the spiritual and physical aspects of death as a consequence of sinHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how...

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Jesus’ Prayer in the Garden [Ep. 191] Oct 19, 2020

Was Jesus praying for God’s will to be done some kind of cop-out? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of Jesus’ prayer in the gardenWhy we generally put Judas in a category apart from the Twelve when we read the Gospels (though we...

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Exploring the Aspects of the Atonement [Ep. 190] Oct 16, 2020

What did the death of Jesus accomplish? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where we find different aspects of the atonement in ScriptureWhy we use the term “aspects” to refer to the different understandings of the atonementWhy we can’t ignore the substitutionary aspect...

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The Calm Before the Storm [Ep. 189] Oct 12, 2020

Why was Jesus eager to celebrate the Passover? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why it’s not inappropriate to consider Luke 22:14-23 the calm before the stormThe importance of the Passover and the uniqueness of this specific celebrationThe disciples’ reaction to Jesus revealing that He...

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No Need for Another Sacrifice [The Hero of the Story 188] Oct 08, 2020

Why wasn’t the sacrifice of lambs and bulls good enough? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where we find this doctrine in ScriptureWhy animal sacrifice is unnecessary todayHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live in the world Listen now...

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Questioning Jesus & Disagreeing Like Christians [The Hero of the Story 187] Oct 06, 2020

How do we disagree like Christians? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The different ways the religious leaders attempt to trap Jesus with their questions in Mark 12:13-37How Jesus’ answers reveal His wisdomWhy we cannot flatly take Jesus’ actions and answers and use them as...

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More than a Formality [The Hero of the Story Ep. 186] Oct 01, 2020

Is the Lord’s Supper just a formality of the church, or is it more than that? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where we find the Lord’s Supper (or communion) in ScriptureWhy we need to pay special attention to an event that is...

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Entering and Weeping Over Jerusalem [The Hero of the Story 185] Sep 28, 2020

How does Jesus challenge our perspective of Him? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The major beats of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem in Luke 19:28–48What to make of the people shouting for joy at Jesus’ arrivalWhy Jesus wept over JerusalemHow this passage points us to...

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A Bodily Resurrection [The Hero of the Story] Sep 24, 2020

Is the resurrection the Bible speaks of physical or only spiritual? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture points us to a bodily resurrectionWhy we need to respect our physical bodies in light of this doctrineHow this doctrine informs different burial practicesHow...

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Jesus, Waiting, and Raising Lazarus from the Dead Sep 21, 2020

How could a man’s death glorify God? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The major beats of John 11 and Jesus’ raising of Lazarus from the deadWhy Jesus waited to go to Lazarus, Mary, and MarthaThe faith of Mary, Martha, and Jesus’ disciplesHow this passage...

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The Church and the Kingdom [The Hero of the Story] Sep 17, 2020

What is the difference between the church and the kingdom of God? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How we see the kingdom depicted in ScriptureWhy we need to recognize the distinction between these two related conceptsDangers that can come from confusing the...

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Jesus, The Bread of Life [The Hero of the Story] Sep 15, 2020

What was Jesus talking about when He called Himself the bread of life? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Jesus’ discourse in John 6 is packed with meaningWhat Jesus meant when He said people needed to drink His blood and eat His flesh (and...

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Sin and Rebellion [The Hero of the Story] Sep 10, 2020

Why can’t God overlook sin? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where this truth is found in ScriptureWhy God can’t sweep sin under the rugHow this doctrine helps us understand the world around usHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we...

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Jesus and the Parable of the Two Sons [The Hero of the Story] Sep 07, 2020

Why would someone refuse to go to a party? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Jesus’ intent in teaching the parable of the sonsWhat we should and shouldn’t take away from Luke 15The importance of reading Scripture aloudHow this passage points us to the gospel...

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Sin and Transgression [The Hero of the Story] Sep 03, 2020

Why does the Bible call sin “transgression”? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where this truth is found in ScriptureThe difference between sins of commission and omissionHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live in the world Listen now on Apple...

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The Kingdom of Heaven and the Purpose of Parables [The Hero of the Story] Aug 31, 2020

What did Jesus teach about the kingdom of heaven? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why Jesus taught in parablesHow we should understand three kingdom parables in Matthew 13What we should—and shouldn’t—take away from these parables in connection to the kingdomHow this passage points us...

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Sin and Missing the Mark [The Hero of the Story] Aug 27, 2020

What does it mean to miss the mark? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where this truth is found in ScriptureHow describing sin as missing the mark can be misunderstoodHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we live in the world...

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The Transfiguration [The Hero of the Story] Aug 24, 2020

Why did Moses and Elijah appear to Jesus? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The significance of Moses and Elijah’s appearance to JesusWhy Peter would want to build shelters for the threeWhy Jesus told Peter, James, and John not to tell anyone what they’d seenHow...

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Jesus: The Only Sinless Human Ever [The Hero of the Story] Aug 20, 2020

Did Jesus ever sin? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible shows us that Jesus is both fully human and yet completely without sinWhy Jesus’ sinlessness is good news for us todayWhether it was even possible for Jesus to sinHow this...

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Walking on Water [The Hero of the Story] Aug 17, 2020

How was it possible for Jesus to walk on water? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What Jesus’ disciples meant when asking if they had seen a ghostHow we should view Peter in this event (should we criticize or congratulate him)The most important words of...

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Jesus: God *and* Human [The Hero of the Story] Aug 13, 2020

Is Jesus really a human being? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible shows us that Jesus was really human, just as He was really GodWhy it is essential that Jesus is fully human in addition to being divineWhy this doctrine...

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Jesus, the Bread of Life [The Hero of the Story] Aug 11, 2020

What did Jesus call Himself the bread of life? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What Jesus was saying when He called Himself the bread of lifeThe connection between Jesus’ feeding of a great multitude and His “I AM” statementsWhy Jesus withdrew when the people...

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The Centrality of Jesus’ Divinity [The Hero of the Story] Aug 07, 2020

Is Jesus really God? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible reveals Jesus as being both human and divineWhy it is essential that Jesus is fully divineWhy this doctrine is good news for usHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and...

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Why Demons Fear Jesus [The Hero of the Story] Aug 03, 2020

What are demons afraid of Jesus? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why the demons asked Jesus not to torment themWhy the people ask Jesus to go awayHow Jesus’ identity as God is revealed in this passageHow this passage points us to the gospel and...

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What Does Omnipotence Mean? [The Hero of the Story] Jul 31, 2020

Is there anything God can’t do? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where the Bible speaks to God’s omnipotence, or all-powerfulnessWhy God being able to do something doesn’t necessarily mean He will do itWhy this doctrine is good news for usHow this doctrine...

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Jesus, Our Good Shepherd [The Hero of the Story] Jul 27, 2020

What did Jesus refer to Himself as a shepherd? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning behind Jesus’ many illustrations in the possible parable of John 10Jesus’ mission to unite and divideWhy rich passages like John 10 should make us stop and be in...

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The God Who is Everywhere [The Hero of the Story] Jul 23, 2020

Is there anywhere God is not? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What omnipresence meansWhere the Bible speaks to God’s omnipresenceGod’s relationship with creation in light of this truth about His natureWhy this doctrine is good news for usHow this doctrine relates to...

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What Jesus Taught About Money & Possessions [The Hero of the Story] Jul 20, 2020

What did Jesus teach about money? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The intent behind the parable of the rich foolIf Jesus instructed His disciples to sell all their possessions and give it all to the poorThe danger of consumerism and its affect on our...

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The God Who Knows Everything [The Hero of the Story] Jul 16, 2020

Is God limited in any way? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What limits exist upon God’s knowledge (that would be none)How human efforts to bring God into alignment with our linear existence leads to serious errorThe perceived conflict between God’s knowledge and...

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What Jesus Taught about Prayer [The Hero of the Story] Jul 13, 2020

What did Jesus teach about prayer? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why most of us struggle with prayerIf the Lord’s prayer is a model or one to reciteThe intent behind Jesus’ use of the terms ask, seek, and knock in prayerHow this passage points...

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The (Positive) Challenge of Understanding Infinite God [The Hero of the Story] Jul 10, 2020

Is God limited in any way? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: In what ways God is infiniteWhy we have a hard time understanding this as finite beingsHow God’s infinity challenges us to elevate our thinkingHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and...

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The Consequences of Following Jesus [The Hero of the Story] Jul 07, 2020

What are the consequences of being a disciple? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What it means to bear your cross as a follower of JesusWhy Jesus talked about hating your family and what He meant by itThe difference between accepting suffering and seeking it...

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Why God’s Truthfulness Matters [The Hero of the Story] Jul 02, 2020

Does God ever lie? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible describes as being totally and completely truthfulWhy the Bible recording falsehoods isn’t the same as it being falseThe difference between omitting information and deceptionHow this doctrine relates to the gospel...

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Discipleship and the Sermon on the Mount [The Hero of the Story] Jun 29, 2020

What does Jesus say it means to be a disciple? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The core ideas at the root of the entire message of Matt. 5-7The importance of the Sermon on the Mount beginning with the BeatitudesIf Jesus was contradicting the Old...

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Jesus, Sin, and Disabilities [The Hero of the Story] Jun 22, 2020

Is sin the cause of illness and disabilities? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The events of John 9 and Jesus’ healing of a man born blindWhat the disciples’ question of whose sin caused the man’s blindness reveals about their understanding of the worldWhy we...

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The Faithfulness of God [The Hero of the Story] Jun 18, 2020

What does it mean to say that God is faithful? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible describes God’s faithfulnessWhy we need to be careful in our understanding of this doctrineThe difference between promises that are for specific people at specific...

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Jesus, the Sabbath, and the Pharisees [The Hero of the Story] Jun 15, 2020

Did Jesus violate the Sabbath? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why people went to the pool at Bethesda hoping for healing at allWhy Jesus chose to heal on the SabbathWhat the negative responses of the Pharisees can tell us about their understanding of Jesus’...

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What in the World is Wrong With the World? [The Hero of the Story] Jun 11, 2020

How much did sin affect creation? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How sin’s effect on creation makes sense of everything that is wrong with the worldThe relationship between sin and serious societal problemsHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and how we...

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When Jesus is Our Last Resort [The Hero of the Story] Jun 08, 2020

Why do we sometimes look at Jesus as a last resort in times of need? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where this event falls in the ministry of JesusThe importance of faith in Jairus and the woman’s livesWhy we shouldn’t see Jesus as our...

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The Faith of a Samaritan Leper [The Hero of the Story] Jun 02, 2020

Does healing require faith? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Jesus’ concern for keeping the Law (and His lack of concern about the traditions of men)The difference between the Samaritan’s faith and that of the other nine menOur tendency to think too much of ourselvesHow...

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Living Water and the Samaritan Woman [The Hero of the Story] May 26, 2020

What did Jesus mean when He taught about living water? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why Jesus went to Samaria at allWhat was significant about the meeting between Jesus and the Samaritan womanThe importance of the ready harvest Jesus spoke ofHow this passage points...

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Nicodemus and the New Birth [The Hero of the Story] May 19, 2020

What does it mean to be born again? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Who Nicodemus is and why it’s important to follow his story through John’s gospelThe both-and heart of John 3:16 (and why we prefer the CSB’s rendering of it)The relationship between water...

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Rejected at Nazareth [The Hero of the Story] May 12, 2020

Why was Jesus rejected in His hometown? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why Jesus declared Isaiah 61:1-2 fulfilled when He read these verses in the synagogueWhy we need to be careful about reading messianic prophecy through western eyesThe importance of the relationship between gospel...

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Why did Jesus perform miracles? [The Hero of the Story] May 06, 2020

Why did Jesus perform miracles? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of Jesus’ miraclesThe significance of how Jesus healed people in Mark 1How Jesus’ miracles point us forward to the gospelHow this passage helps us disciple others Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher,...

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Why did Jesus talk about fishing for people? [The Hero of the Story] Apr 27, 2020

Why did Jesus talk about fishing for people? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What Jesus’ “fishing for people” / “fishers of men” reference tells us about His humanity, and our calling as disciplesWhat we can learn from Peter’s response to Jesus’ miracle in Luke...

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Understanding God’s Justness (and Justice) [The Hero of the Story] Apr 23, 2020

How is God just? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where Scripture describes and explains God’s justnessTwo specific aspects of God’s commitment to justice in the context of judgmentHow this doctrine relates to the gospel and our actions in the worldHow this doctrine...

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Why is Jesus called the Lamb of God? [The Hero of the Story] Apr 20, 2020

Why is Jesus called the Lamb of God? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why the metaphors John the Baptist used to describe Jesus are incredibly importantHow these events point us forward to the gospelHow this passage helps us disciple others Listen now on Apple...

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Understanding God’s Mercy [The Hero of the Story] Apr 16, 2020

How is God merciful? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where Scripture describes and explains God’s mercyHow this doctrine relates to the gospelWhy God withholding things from us demonstrates His mercyHow this doctrine changes our lives Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, or wherever you...

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Was Jesus tempted to sin? [The Hero of the Story] Apr 13, 2020

Was Jesus really tempted to sin? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why we should avoid separating this event from Jesus’ baptismThe importance of the specific temptations and what it teaches us about Satan’s tacticsWhy there’s a difference in the order of the temptations between...

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What the Bible says about Christ as our Substitute [The Hero of the Story] Apr 09, 2020

What do we mean when we talk about Jesus being our substitute? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where Scripture points to Jesus as our substituteHow this doctrine relates to the gospelWhat it does and doesn’t mean in regards to views on salvation—specifically...

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Celebrating Easter at Home [The Hero of the Story] Apr 06, 2020

How do we celebrate Easter at home? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How this unusual Easter provides us with opportunities for family discipleshipWays we can engage our neighbors with the gospel, even when we can’t visit them face-to-faceResources to help us focus on the...

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The Gospel & Generosity in Uncertain Times [The Hero of the Story] Apr 03, 2020

How does the gospel help us be generous in uncertain times? That’s the question we’re addressing on a special bonus episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as Todd McMichen of Lifeway Generosity joins the show to discuss: How the gospel makes us generous in all areas of lifeWhy generosity matters in uncertain timesHow...

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Understanding God’s Graciousness [The Hero of the Story] Apr 02, 2020

What do we mean when we talk about God as being gracious? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What God’s grace isWhere Scripture points us to the truth of God’s gracious characterThe dangers of undermining God’s graceHow this doctrine changes how we live...

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Why was Jesus baptized? [The Hero of the Story] Mar 31, 2020

Why did Jesus need to be baptized? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The way the Old Testament points us toward this eventThe multifaceted role Jesus played in His earthly ministryWhy we need to be careful not to devalue baptism in the life of the...

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What Does the Bible Teach About Demons? [The Hero of the Story] Mar 26, 2020

What are demons? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What demons are according to ScriptureHow Satan and demons compare to God and His angelsWhat the Bible says awaits themHow should our understanding of these beings affect our daily lives Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify,...

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Was Jesus disobedient to His parents? [The Hero of the Story] Mar 23, 2020

How could Mary and Joseph forget Jesus at the temple—and was He disobedient to them? That’s the question we’re discussing on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How to understand how Mary and Joseph could have even left Jesus behindWhy we don’t have more stories about Jesus’ childhoodIf Jesus was disrespectful...

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Family Discipleship Basics [The Hero of the Story] Mar 21, 2020

How should we do family discipleship? That’s the question we’re addressing on a special bonus episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of family discipleship in general and the role of parents and caregivers in particularWhy parents don’t need to worry about being the experts to be disciple makersWhy...

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What Does the Bible Teach About Angels? [The Hero of the Story] Mar 19, 2020

What are angels? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What angels are according to ScriptureHow do angels differ from other created beingsAre all angels that appear in Scripture angels?How should our understanding of these beings affect our daily lives Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify,...

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How did Jesus obey the Law as a baby? [The Hero of the Story] Mar 16, 2020

How did Jesus obey the Law as a baby? That’s the question we’re discussing at Luke’s genealogy on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of the faithfulness of Jesus’ earthly parentsAnna and Simeon’s role in the narrative of the gospelHow these events point us forward to the gospelOur advice...

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Do Miracles Still Happen Today? [The Hero of the Story] Mar 12, 2020

Do miracles still happen today? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What a miracle isThe purpose of a miracle according to ScriptureWhether or not views on miracles and sign gifts should be a dividing point for believersWhy we should absolutely expect that God...

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Is the Story of Jesus’ Birth True? [The Hero of the Story] Mar 09, 2020

Is the Bible’s account of Jesus’ birth true? That’s the question we’re discussing at Luke’s genealogy on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why it matters that the gospel writers were telling the truth when writing the account of Jesus’ birthWhy Jesus’ birth was announced to shepherdsHow the events of Jesus’...

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How Prayer and Providence Work Together [The Hero of the Story] Mar 05, 2020

If God is in control and already knows the future, why pray? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What this doctrine really meansHow the Bible describes the relationship between prayer and God’s providenceWhy we need to hold these two truths togetherWhy this doctrine...

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The Final Prophecy of Jesus’ Birth [The Hero of the Story] Mar 02, 2020

Did prophecies about Jesus stop after the book of Malachi was completed? That’s the question we’re discussing at Luke’s genealogy on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of not minimizing the gap between the Old and New TestamentsHow prophecies about Jesus continued into the New TestamentWhy John the Baptist...

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How God’s Providence Works [The Hero of the Story] Feb 27, 2020

How is God at work in the world? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible puts God’s providence on displayIf there’s a conflict between providence and human responsibilityWhy this doctrine is good news for God’s people Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, or...

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Why a Genealogy Really Matters [The Hero of the Story] Feb 24, 2020

Why isn’t one long genealogy of Jesus enough? That’s the question we’re discussing at Luke’s genealogy on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why we can’t skip genealogies in our Bible reading and studyWhy the gospels have multiple genealogies of Jesus—and what the differences might meanHow this genealogy connects to the...

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Understanding the Importance of the Virgin Birth [The Hero of the Story] Feb 20, 2020

Does it matter if Jesus did or didn’t have a human father? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How the Bible speaks to the truth of the virgin birthWhat do we lose if the virgin birth isn’t trueWhy do people struggle to believe...

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Malachi, Satire, & Why the Bible Talks About Behavior [The Hero of the Story] Feb 17, 2020

Why does the Bible talk about behavior so much? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at the second half of the book of Nehemiah on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why God might inspire the use of satireHow best to understand Malachi 3:7-8How Malachi points us to JesusOur...

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Life, Death, and Life After Death [The Hero of the Story] Feb 13, 2020

What happens after we die? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What the Bible teaches about life after deathWhat an intermediate state in the afterlife of a believer does (and doesn’t) meanHow the reality of life after death is motivation for sharing the...

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Responding to Backsliding [The Hero of the Story] Feb 10, 2020

What happens after you’ve done what God’s compelled you to do? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at the second half of the book of Nehemiah on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why the Levites needed to explain the Law to the returned JewsHow we should understand Nehemiah’s...

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The Starting Point of Sin [The Hero of the Story] Feb 06, 2020

What is idolatry? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why it’s important to know that sin is more than our external behaviorsHow Scripture defines idolatry and its relationship to sinHow the gospel transforms the worship problem at the heart of sin Listen now...

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Nehemiah and God’s Protection [The Hero of the Story] Feb 03, 2020

How should we respond when we hear troubling news? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at the first half of the book of Nehemiah on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why it mattered that the walls of Jerusalem were rebuiltWhat to make of Nehemiah and his role in...

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How Does Scripture Define the Gospel? [The Hero of the Story] Jan 30, 2020

What is the gospel? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture shows the gospel as being both an event and the larger story of redemptionThe dangers of either reducing the gospel to a transaction or broadening it too far that it loses...

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Esther and the Unseen Hand of God [The Hero of the Story] Jan 27, 2020

Is God at work when we can’t see Him? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at the book of Esther on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why we need to not portray Esther’s ascension to the throne as a beauty pageant—especially with kidsHow we see God at work...

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What Does the Bible Say About Worship? [The Hero of the Story] Jan 23, 2020

What is worship? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Where we see worship in Scripture How worship is about more (but not less) than singingWhy we need to have a proper perspective on the balance between private and corporate worshipHow worship relates to...

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Who Was the King Zechariah Prophesied? [The Hero of the Story] Jan 20, 2020

Who was the king God’s people waited for? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at the book of Zechariah on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The complexity of the book of Zechariah and its relationship to the books of Ezra and HaggaiWhy God’s call to rebuild the temple...

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How Do We Understand God’s Glory? [The Hero of the Story] Jan 16, 2020

What do we mean when we talk about God’s glory? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture puts the multiple facets of this doctrine on displayWhy we need a proper understanding of God’s gloryHow to (and not to) encourage suffering friends and...

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Why Would Anyone Oppose Worshiping God? [The Hero of the Story] Jan 13, 2020

Why would anyone oppose the worship of God? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at the book of Haggai on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why the surrounding people opposed God’s people’s efforts to rebuild the temple. The danger of delayed obedience.God’s providence at work in allowing the...

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Making Sense of the Relationship Between Human Actions and God’s Plans [The Hero of the Story] Jan 09, 2020

If God is sovereign, does it matter what we do? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture points us to the answer to the perceived tension between God’s sovereignty and human actionsThe emotional tension that often comes with this doctrineHow this truth...

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Ezra and the Exiles’ Return [The Hero of the Story] Jan 06, 2020

Does it matter where God’s people live? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at Ezra 1-3 on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The importance of “place” and the significance of the exiles’ returnThe rebuilding of the temple and the priority of worshipHow where we live does (and doesn’t)...

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Obadiah and God’s Justice [The Hero of the Story] Dec 30, 2019

Can we trust that justice will prevail? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at Obadiah on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why seemingly obscure books of the Bible are really importantWhy judgment matters and should motivate personal evangelismHow this book points us to the greater hope of God’s...

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What Does a Genealogy Have to do With Christmas? [The Hero of the Story] Dec 23, 2019

What does a genealogy have to do with Christmas? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at Matthew 1 on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why we should not skip over genealogiesHow God uses people from all backgrounds, histories, and ethnicities as a part of His plansHow this passage...

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How Humans Bear God’s Image [The Hero of the Story] Dec 19, 2019

What does it mean to be made in God’s image? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture points us to this truthWhat it means to be like GodThe limits of our being like GodWhy this truth should put to death all “isms”...

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How Do We Make Sense of Hard-to-Understand Prophecies? [The Hero of the Story] Dec 16, 2019

How does God respond to pride? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at Daniel 7 on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why we should study passages like this at allWhat the beasts in Daniel’s vision meant, and if the prophecy has been fulfilledThe importance of the “son of...

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The Good News of God’s Unchanging Nature [The Hero of the Story] Dec 12, 2019

Does God ever change? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture points us to this truthHow we can make sense of the times when God appears to relent on His decisionsWhat we shouldn’t assume about God because of this truthHow God’s unchanging...

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How Should We Respond to Unjust Commands? [The Hero of the Story] Dec 09, 2019

How does God respond to pride? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at Daniel 6 on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why Daniel was so bold in his opposition to an unjust commandHow to pronounce “Darius”Our best guidance on determining if a passage includes an appearance of the...

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Understanding the Holiness of God [The Hero of the Story] Dec 05, 2019

What do we mean when we say that God is holy? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture points us to this truthWhy you can make the case that this attribute of God should be elevated above othersHow God’s holiness does not...

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How Does God Respond to Our Pride? [The Hero of the Story] Dec 02, 2019

How does God respond to pride? That’s the question we’re discussing today on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as guest co-host Sam O’Neil (Younger Kids Content Editor) and Aaron discuss: The meaning behind Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and the evidence of repentance in his lifeOne of the indicators of pride in our livesHow Nebuchadnezzar’s dream...

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Does God Sustain Us in Trials? [The Hero of the Story] Nov 25, 2019

Can we have hope that God will sustain us? That’s the question we’re discussing today on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as guest co-host Sam O’Neil (Younger Kids Content Editor) and Aaron discuss: Why we need to take familiar passages of Scripture seriouslyGod’s sustaining power in the lives of Daniel, Shadrach, Meschach, and...

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Understanding the Love of God [The Hero of the Story] Nov 21, 2019

What does the Bible mean when it says that “God is love?” That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture points us to this truthWhy we should avoid elevating love above God’s other attributesHow how the gospel is the supreme display of God’s...

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How Can We Have Hope in Hard Times? [The Hero of the Story] Nov 18, 2019

How can we have hope even when our situations seem hopeless? That’s the question we’re discussing today on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning of the two visions in Ezekiel 37Why God would give a vision of hope instead of immediately restoring His peopleThe value in word pictures and...

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Making Sense of the Trinity [The Hero of the Story] Nov 14, 2019

How can there be one God if the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all God? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture points the truth that there is one God who exists as three distinct PersonsThe errors that we can fall...

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What Happens When God’s Patience Ends? [The Hero of the Story] Nov 11, 2019

What happens when God’s patience ends? That’s the question we’re discussing today on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The difference between Judah’s fall and Israel’sThe purpose of discipline in the narrative of the Bible and in the lives of God’s peopleWhy we need to pay attention when the Bible repeats...

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What is Monotheism? [The Hero of the Story] Nov 07, 2019

Is God a part of His creation? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture points the truth that there is one GodHow we hold this doctrine in tension with other truths about God’s natureHow this truth changes how we live in light...

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Does God Allow Evil To Go Unchecked? [The Hero of the Story] Nov 04, 2019

Why does it seem like God allows evil to go unchecked? That’s the question we’re discussing today as we look at Habakkuk on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The relationship between God’s sovereignty and human responsibilityThe role of faith in the life of the ChristianHow the gospel gives us certainty...

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Understanding the Transcendence of God [The Hero of the Story] Oct 31, 2019

Is God a part of His creation? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture shows God’s distinction from His creationWhy we need to hold this truth about God in close relationship with His relatability (or immanence)How this truth changes how we live...

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Why Would God Give a New Covenant? [The Hero of the Story] Oct 28, 2019

Why did God need to give a new covenant? That’s the question we’re discussing today as we look at Jeremiah 31:31-40 on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning of a covenantThe difference between a covenant and a contractWhat it means for God’s law to be written on the hearts...

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Understanding the Immanence of God [The Hero of the Story] Oct 24, 2019

Does God actually get involved in our lives? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture shows God’s relatability to His creationThe dangers of believing that God isn’t involved in the worldHow this truth changes how we live in light of the gospel...

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God’s Grace in Repentance [The Hero of the Story] Oct 21, 2019

How does God want us to respond to our sin? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at 2 Chronicles 29-35 today on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How this passage fits into the ongoing cycle of sin and restoration in the narrative of God’s peopleWhat repentance means and...

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Understanding the Goodness of Creation [The Hero of the Story] Oct 17, 2019

Can we really call creation “good?” That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What Scripture means by “good” when referring to creationThe difference between “good” and “complete”The relationship between ruling over creation and caring for itHow this truth changes how we live in light...

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God, Suffering, and the Gospel [The Hero of the Story] Oct 14, 2019

Why does God allow suffering—including the suffering of Jesus? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at Isaiah 52:13-53:12 today on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why God would punish someone else for the sins of His peopleHow Isaiah point us to Jesus in this passage—and is there anyone...

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How Did God Create the Universe? [The Hero of the Story] Oct 10, 2019

How did God create the universe? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture reveals this important doctrineWhat this doctrine says (and does not say) about how God created all thingsWhat challenges do we face if we were to reject or deny this...

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Should God Judge People for Worshiping Other Gods? [The Hero of the Story] Oct 07, 2019

Is God right to judge those who worship other gods? That’s the question we’re discussing as we look at 2 Kings 17 today on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What it meant that Hoshea was evil, but not like the kings who preceded him?Our (humanity’s) perceived conflict between God’s love...

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Addressing the Problem of Evil [The Hero of the Story] Oct 03, 2019

If God is good and all-powerful, why does evil exist? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How Scripture answers the problem of evilWhy we need to address the objections of non-Christians seriously on this issueHow the challenge at the heart of this essential...

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God’s Love to Unfaithful People [The Hero of the Story] Sep 30, 2019

Why would God ask a prophet to marry an unfaithful woman? That’s the question we’re discussing today on The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why God would call a prophet to marry an unfaithful woman in the first placeHow to teach a book like Hosea to childrenWhere we see the gospel...

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Explaining the Preservation of Scripture [The Hero of the Story] Sep 26, 2019

How do we know the Bible we have today is the Bible God inspired? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning and importance of this doctrine, and where we find it in ScriptureWhy it shouldn’t be a challenge for Christians to believe...

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God’s Mercy to Rebels [The Hero of the Story] Sep 23, 2019

Why does God show mercy to rebellious people? That’s the question we’re addressing as we look at the book of Jonah on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Why God sent Jonah to the Ninevites in the first place.Who the “hero” of this particular story is.How the challenge of...

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Explaining the Illumination of Scripture [The Hero of the Story] Sep 19, 2019

How does God help us to understand Scripture? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning and importance of this doctrine, and where we find it in ScriptureHow the doctrine of the illumination of Scripture encourages humility but not passivity in Bible studyWhat...

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How can we see what God is doing? [The Hero of the Story] Sep 16, 2019

How can we see as God sees? That’s the question we’re addressing as we look at 2 Kings 6 on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How God worked powerfully through Elisha with many impressive miracles that parallel those of JesusWhy Elisha commanded Israel to treat the Aramean army...

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Unpacking the Clarity of Scripture [The Hero of the Story] Sep 12, 2019

Is the Bible easy to understand? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning and importance of this doctrine, and where we find it in ScriptureThe differing degrees of clarity in Scripture What we need to be aware of as we seek to...

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Does God Give Power to His People? [The Hero of the Story] Sep 09, 2019

Does God give power to His people? That’s the question we’re addressing as we look at 1 Kings 19-2 Kings 2 on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: What Elisha may have meant by asking for “two shares” of Elijah’s spiritThe difference between “can” and “must” when we think...

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Understanding the Authority of Scripture [The Hero of the Story] Sep 05, 2019

What do we mean when we say Scripture is our authority? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning and importance of this doctrine, and where we find it in ScriptureWhy it is so important that we be clear on what authority means...

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Is God Really With Us? [The Hero of the Story] Sep 02, 2019

How do we know God is really with us? That’s the question we’re addressing as we look at 1 Kings 18-19 on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The danger of presumption about God’s waysHow this critical moment in Elijah’s ministry points us to our hope in JesusWhy we...

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Understanding the Inerrancy of Scripture [The Hero of the Story] Aug 29, 2019

What do we mean when we say Scripture is inerrant? That’s the question we’re addressing on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning and importance of this doctrine, and where we find it in ScriptureHow this belief does or doesn’t conflict with the differing accounts of events in...

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Is God in Control? [The Hero of the Story] Aug 26, 2019

How do we know God is in control? That’s the question we’re addressing as we look at 1 Kings 17 on this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: How God was at work as He provided for Elijah, the widow and her son in ZarapethHow this passage shows us God’s...

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Understanding the Inspiration of Scripture [The Hero of the Story] Aug 22, 2019

What do we mean when we say Scripture is inspired? That’s the question we’re discussing this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning and importance of this doctrine, and where we find it in ScriptureTo what biblical manuscripts does the doctrine of inspiration applyWhat we need to be aware...

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When the Wise Become Fools [The Hero of the Story] Aug 19, 2019

What’s the danger of failing to apply wisdom? That’s the question we’re discussing this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: Solomon’s fall into false worship in the waning years of his lifeThe consequences of his folly as seen in his son Rehoboam’s reignHow Solomon’s failure informs the way we approach...

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Special Revelation Explained [The Hero of the Story] Aug 15, 2019

What is special revelation? That’s the question we’re discussing this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss: The meaning of this doctrine and the difference between special and general revelationWhere we find this doctrine in ScriptureWhat we need to be aware of as we seek to understand this essential truth of...

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The Good News in God’s Temple [The Hero of the Story] Aug 12, 2019

What was the purpose of Solomon’s Temple? That’s the question we’re discussing this episode of The Hero of the Story, presented by The Gospel Project. Listen in as we discuss: The purpose and intent of the templeSolomon’s prayer and God’s plan to redeem people from all nationsJesus as the ultimate fulfillment of the templeSacred spaces and...

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General Revelation Explained [The Hero of the Story] Aug 08, 2019

What is general revelation? That’s the question we’re discussing today on The Hero of the Story, presented by The Gospel Project. Listen in as we begin a deeper discussion of one of the 99 essential Christian doctrines, addressing: What general revelation really meansWhere we see this doctrine found in ScriptureThe cautions we need to offer in...

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The Gospel According to Ecclesiastes [The Hero of the Story] Aug 05, 2019

How do we see the gospel in Ecclesiastes? That’s the question we’re discussing this episode of The Hero of the Story, presented by The Gospel Project. Listen in as we discuss: The major themes of Ecclesiastes:The limits of human wisdom and the pursuit of knowledgeThe ultimate meaning and purpose of lifeHow Ecclesiastes points us to Jesus...

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Why Men Should Serve in Kids Ministry [Best of the Podcast] Jun 24, 2019

As we gear up for season two of The Hero of the Story, we are re-presenting a conversation between Aaron and Sam O’Neil on why men should serve in Kids Ministry. Listen in as we discuss why it isn’t and shouldn’t be weird for men to serve Kids; Why it matters that they do; and Why...

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What is the Goal of Our Group Time? [Best of the Podcast] Jun 17, 2019

As we gear up for season two of The Hero of the Story, we are re-presenting a conversation on the goal of group time. Listen in as Brian and Aaron discuss: What we are trying to accomplish when we meet; How to handle theological disagreement when it comes up in discussion; and How to handle members who...

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How Do We Keep Our Students Focused on the Gospel? [Best of the Podcast] Jun 10, 2019

As we gear up for season two of The Hero of the Story, we are re-presenting a conversation between Aaron and Andy McLean, editor of The Gospel Project for Students, on the need for a gospel focus in student ministry. Listen in as we discuss: The dangers of confusing the gospel with behavior modification; The danger of...

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How Does the Gospel Protect Us From Theological Tribalism? [Best of the Podcast] Jun 03, 2019

As we gear up for season two of The Hero of the Story, we are re-presenting a philosophical and theological conversation between Aaron, Brian, and Trevin Wax, General Editor of The Gospel Project: Does the concept of gospel-centrality transcend theological perspectives. Listen in as we discuss: How movements start but don’t always stay in one theological...

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How Does Gratitude Protect Us From Grumbling? [Best of the Podcast] May 27, 2019

As we gear up for season two of The Hero of the Story, we are re-presenting a conversation between Aaron and Brian on a miracle from the Old Testament, God providing water from a rock in Exodus 17:1-7. Listen in as we discuss: Some helpful takeaways from the passage; The problem behind the Israelites ongoing grumbling; and...

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How to Not Lose Our Grip on the Gospel [Best of the Podcast] May 20, 2019

As we gear up for season two of The Hero of the Story, we are re-presenting a conversation on Galatians 1:6-9, in which Paul warned the Galatians against their quickness to abandon the gospel in favor of works-based religion. Listen in as we discuss: The heart behind warnings like these; The danger we all face of...

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The Gospel, Art, and Our Identity in Christ [Best of the Podcast] May 14, 2019

As we gear up for season two of The Hero of the Story, we are re-presenting our conversation on the gospel and art with singer, songwriter and author Andrew Peterson. Listen in as we discuss: The relationship between the gospel and art The danger of having unbalanced views of either How our identity in Christ...

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The Gospel, Sin, and the Judges Cycle Apr 30, 2019

Judges is one of the most troubling books in Scripture, one that it’s hard to see any good news in at all. And yet, if we’re looking at it honestly, it points us to the gospel in a profound way. Listen in as Brian and Aaron discuss the big ideas of this book and how...

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Philemon, Forgiveness, and the Gospel Apr 23, 2019

One of the least-read books of the Bible is a short epistle called Philemon, but it’s one we ought not skip. In its few verses, Paul demonstrates for the transforming power of the gospel as he challenges Philemon to welcome home Onesimus, a runaway slave, as his brother in Christ. Dhati Lewis, pastor of Blueprint...

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Joshua’s Call to Faithfulness and the Problem of Our Hearts Apr 17, 2019

The end of the book of Joshua is familiar to most believers—at least the commonly quoted Joshua 24:15, “As for me and my family, we will worship the Lord.” We tend to see a very simple dichotomy in this passage: either we serve the Lord or we serve idols. Be in or out. And while this...

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Prayer, Boldness, and Making the Sun Stand Still Apr 10, 2019

The Old Testament is filled with stories that we don’t quite understand. Joshua commanding the sun to stand still is one of those. What should we do with this passage? Are we to do as Joshua did, or is there something more to this passage—something that points us to the gospel? Aaron and Brian continue...

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Joshua, the gospel, and the call to courage Mar 26, 2019

Joshua is a favorite book of many. It’s filled with action and adventure, and more than a little drama, as the Israelites finally enter the Promised Land after wandering in the desert for 40 years. But how does this book point us to the gospel? How does it help us become more like Jesus? Aaron...

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Why do preschoolers need to study the book of Judges? Mar 13, 2019

The book of Judges is one of the darkest books in Scripture. And because it is so dark, it often makes us wonder if it’s a book we should be teaching to children, and particularly preschoolers. Aaron and Brian are joined by Karen Jones, Content Editor for The Gospel Project for Preschool, to discuss why...

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Should Christians Participate in Lent? Mar 05, 2019

In the days leading up to Easter, many Christians from a number of different traditions take part in Lent. But is this something we should participate in? Is that even the right question to ask? Brian and Aaron discuss on the latest episode of The Hero of the Story. Apple Podcasts Player FM Podbean Have...

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What is a Gospel Issue? Feb 27, 2019

The phrase “gospel issue” has been used often in recent days. But what does it really mean? On today’s episode of The Hero of the Story, Brian and Aaron unpack this statement, and explore a framework for practically responding to legitimate gospel issues in our churches and culture. Apple Podcasts Player FM Podbean Have questions...

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57. Lies Christians Believe Feb 19, 2019

We’ve all heard (or said) something like “I could never forgive [insert name here],” “believe in yourself,” or any of the other popular sayings we’ve explored in recent weeks on this podcast. As we bring our series on popular sayings to a close, Brian and Aaron are joined by Shane Pruitt, to discuss why these...

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56. Does God Always Open a Door? Feb 13, 2019

“When God closes a door, He opens a new one.” But does He always? And if a door opens, does it mean that we should always walk through it? Listen in as we continue our series on popular theology and Brian and Aaron discuss the wisdom of this saying on The Hero of the Story....

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55. “God is my co-pilot” Feb 04, 2019

We’re continuing our series on the bits of popular theology that seep into the lives of believers. On this episode, we’re dealing with our control issues and the oft-seen saying, “God is my co-pilot.” Listen in as we discuss whether this saying reflects a gospel-centered perspective and how we can pursue something greater on today’s...

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54. “God gained another angel” Jan 28, 2019

Whenever we are trying to comfort a friend or loved one, we often don’t know what to say. What can you say to someone who is grieving the loss of a child, for example? While there are many things we can say or do, sometimes we say things that are well-meaning, but aren’t true. Sayings...

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53. Listen to Your Heart Jan 21, 2019

The popular wisdom of our culture encourages us to listen to our hearts—to do what makes us happy and pursue our own flourishing, however we choose to define it. As we continue our exploration of the bits of popular theology and common sayings that influence our faith, we’re exploring this idea to see why listening...

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52. Preach the Gospel Always… and Use Words Jan 15, 2019

Over the last several centuries, there are a few clichés or bits of popular theology that have crept into our vocabulary—and into our worldview as believers. But are they true? Brian and Aaron are exploring some of the most common sayings, looking at what can be commended and what should be challenged in each, and,...

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51. Will God Give You More Than You Can Handle? Jan 07, 2019

Over the last several centuries, there are a few clichés or bits of popular theology that have crept into our vocabulary—and into our worldview as believers. But are they true? Brian and Aaron are exploring some of the most common sayings, looking at what can be commended and what should be challenged in each, and,...

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Ep. 50. Does God help those who help themselves? Dec 31, 2018

Over the last several centuries, there are a few clichés that have crept into our vocabulary—and into our worldview as believers. But are these clichés or truisms really true? Brian and Aaron start a new series on the podcast exploring some of the most common clichés, looking at what can be commended and what should...

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Ep. 49: Pursuing Spiritual Health in the New Year Dec 17, 2018

As the year winds down, many of us take some time to reflect on how we’re growing in our faith, particularly by looking at the actions we took—what our prayer lives looked like, did we read our Bible entirely this year, did we give enough, and so forth—and consider what we’re going to do differently....

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Ep. 48: How Do We Focus on The Gospel at Christmas? Dec 10, 2018

As soon as November comes to an end, Christmas preparation kicks into high gear: at church, the Christmas-themed sermon series typically begins. Christmas music follows us to every store, and our inboxes are filled with notifications about pre-Christmas sales. So how do we have an gospel-focus at Christmastime? That’s what Brian and Aaron discuss on...

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Ep. 47: Ministry as Gospel-Centered Parents and Leaders Dec 03, 2018

What is the role of parents and kids ministry leaders in giving our children a consistent discipleship experience? How do we make the most of the opportunity God has given us when we may feel ill-equipped? In today’s episode of The Hero of the Story, Brian and Aaron wrap up their 5-part series based around...

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Ep. 46: Gospel-Centered Kids Ministry and Missions Nov 26, 2018

Every Christian is called to participate in the great commission—to go out into all the world and make disciples. So what does that look like for kids? In today’s episode of The Hero of the Story, Brian and Aaron continue their 5-part series based around the central concepts of Brian’s new book, Gospel-Centered Kids Ministry...

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Ep. 45: Transformation in a Gospel-Centered Kids Ministry Nov 19, 2018

Everyone agrees that obedience matters in the Christian life, but what motivates our obedience, and what does this look like in the lives of children? In today’s episode of The Hero of the Story, Brian and Aaron continue their 5-part series based around the central concepts of Brian’s new book, Gospel-Centered Kids Ministry (B&H 2018). Listen...

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Ep. 44: Teaching in a Gospel-Centered Kids Ministry Nov 12, 2018

What are our children learning each week when they come to our kids ministries? We might quickly answer with “the Bible”… but what if the way we’re teaching them the Bible misses the gospel? In today’s episode of The Hero of the Story, Brian and Aaron continue their 5-part series based around the central concepts...

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Ep. 43: Gospel-Centered Kids Ministry – The Problem We Face Nov 05, 2018

Seven out of ten kids walk away from the church after turning eighteen. Eventually, around five will return for a variety of reasons; but two leave and never return. And only 3 of every 10 stay through their entire lives. What should we think about statistics like these—what do they say about our approach to...

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Ep. 42: Does Gospel Centrality Transcend Theological Perspectives? Oct 29, 2018

Is gospel-centrality limited to one theological viewpoint or another? Does it transcend the boundaries that exist between denominations and theological camps? And should we worry about being gospel-centered at all? Trevin Wax, General Editor of The Gospel Project, joins Aaron and Brian to discuss his view on these questions and more on today’s episode of...

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Ep. 41: Why Men Should Serve in Kids Ministry Oct 22, 2018

Kids Ministry tends to be one of the most challenging areas to recruit volunteers for—especially male volunteers. Why is it so difficult to recruit volunteers in general and male volunteers in particular? During a break at the ERLC 2018 National Conference, Sam O’Neil, a Content Editor for The Gospel Project for Kids and a Kids...

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Ep. 40: Is There a Difference Between Christ-Centered, Bible-Centered and Gospel-Centered? Oct 15, 2018

Is there a difference between being Bible-centered, Christ-centered and gospel-centered? Are these essentially three ways of saying the same thing, or are there distinctions between each? Recently we were asked this question at an event, and today we’re sharing our best answer. Listen in as we discuss: The strengths of being centered on the Bible;...

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Ep. 39: Live from FTC18 Oct 08, 2018

During a special event at For the Church (hosted by Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary), we hosted our first-ever live podcast recording. During our time with about 250 people, Brian and Aaron discussed: Why gospel centrality matters to the church Why kids need more than good morals The heart behind The Gospel Project And even enjoyed...

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Ep. 38: The Goal of Gospel Ministry to Adults Oct 01, 2018

How does the gospel shape our understanding of ministry to adults? What challenges do grown-ups face in being shaped by the gospel that kids and teens don’t? Brian and Aaron explore these questions as they wrap up a five-part series devoted to the goals for growing every age group deeper in the gospel through a “head/heart/hands”...

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Ep. 37: The Goal of Gospel Ministry to Teens Sep 24, 2018

The teen years are characterized by transition: boundaries are tested, responsibilities are increased, and beliefs are owned or rejected. So what should gospel ministry look like in this important time of life? Andy McLean, the Editor of The Gospel Project for Students and author of Big Questions, joins Brian and Aaron as they continue a five-part series devoted...

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Ep. 36: The Goal of Gospel Ministry to Preteens Sep 17, 2018

Preteens find themselves in a very interesting stage of development—they’re not quite children, but they’re not teens either (and often have some of the best and most awkward elements of both). So how does our approach to ministering to them grow as they do? Brian and Aaron discuss as they continue a five-part series devoted...

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Ep. 35: The Goal of Gospel Ministry to Children Sep 10, 2018

How does gospel-ministry to elementary aged children differ from preschoolers and preteens? How do we meet them where they are? Brian and Aaron discuss as they continue a five-part series devoted to the goals for growing every age group deeper in the gospel through a “head/heart/hands” perspective: Head: focusing on orthodoxy, right belief Heart: focusing on...

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Ep. 34: The Goal of Gospel Ministry to Preschoolers Sep 04, 2018

What unique opportunities does ministering to different age-groups bring? How do our goals differ from one age to the next? Today, Brian and Aaron kick off a five-part series devoted to the goals for growing every age group deeper in the gospel, beginning with preschoolers. In this episode, we examine preschool ministry through the lens...

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Ep. 33: The Gospel and the Arts (with Andrew Peterson) Aug 28, 2018

Christians often have an uneasy relationship with the arts. Some of us see the two as being wholly separate, as if one should not influence the other. Others tend to view art as being most valid or appropriate if it’s explicit in proclaiming our faith. But what is the relationship between faith and art? What...

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Ep. 32: The Gospel in South Africa Aug 21, 2018

The mission of God is a global one. In every nation where Christians are present, the gospel is going forward. So what is God doing around the world? During a recent trip to South Africa, Brian Dembowczyk sat down with Danie van Tonder, pastor of Urban Life Church in Thatchfield, to find out. Listen...

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Ep. 31: The Gospel and Pop Culture Aug 14, 2018

How does the gospel shape how we engage with the communities that form around video games, comic books and science fiction? Drew Dixon, co-founder of Love Thy Nerd, sat in for Brian while he was in South Africa to discuss this topic with Aaron on today’s episode of The Hero of the Story. Apple Podcasts...

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Ep. 30: The Gospel and Social Media Aug 06, 2018

Back when most of us started Facebook and Twitter accounts, they were places where you could share ideas, connect with friends and ministry associates, and share a cat video or two. But in the last several years, social media has morphed, and not necessarily for the better. With civil public discourse in danger of becoming...

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Ep. 29: A Gospel-Centered View of Dignity Jul 30, 2018

How does the gospel reshape our understanding of being made in the image of God? How does a desire to honor human dignity relate to the mission of the church? Daniel Darling, author of The Dignity Revolution, joins Brian and Aaron to discuss on today’s episode of The Hero of the Story. Apple Podcasts Player...

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Ep 28: The Gospel and Rest Jul 23, 2018

How does the gospel shape our view and approach to rest? This is the question Brian and Aaron are addressing on today’s episode of The Hero of the Story. Apple Podcasts Player FM Podbean Have questions or suggestions for an upcoming episode of The Hero of the Story? Reach out to The Gospel Project on Twitter or...

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Ep 27: Welcoming Leaders in a Gospel Culture Jul 20, 2018

We’re wrapping up a special week on The Hero of the Story. All this week, we’ve presented selections from our most recent online event, The Gospel at the Center. On today’s episode, Ray Ortlund shows us how a gospel culture allows us to freely welcome new leaders into the church. Apple Podcasts Player FM Podbean Have questions...

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Ep 26: The Gospel, Women, and the Culture Jul 19, 2018

We’re continuing a special week on The Hero of the Story as we present selections from our most recent online event, The Gospel at the Center. On today’s episode, Jen Wilkin shares how the gospel changes our relationships as men and women, and why we need one another to flourish. Apple Podcasts Player FM Podbean Have...

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Ep 25: How Do We Develop a Gospel Culture in an Urban Context? Jul 18, 2018

We’re continuing a special week on The Hero of the Story as we present selections from our most recent online event, The Gospel at the Center. On today’s episode, Dhati Lewis explains how we ought to think about developing a gospel culture in an urban context. Apple Podcasts Player FM Podbean Have questions or suggestions...

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Ep 24: How Do We Grieve in a Gospel Culture? Jul 17, 2018

Today we’re continuing a special week on The Hero of the Story as we present selections from our most recent online event, The Gospel at the Center. On today’s episode, Nancy Guthrie addresses how we grieve together in a gospel culture. Her message in incredibly powerful and we are sure you’ll be blessed by it. Apple...

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Ep 23: The Restorative Power of Discipline Jul 16, 2018

We’re beginning a special week on The Hero of the Story as we present selections from our most recent online event, The Gospel at the Center. On today’s episode, Micah Fries discusses the purpose of God’s discipline in the Christian life, and how He uses it to grow us in Christlikeness. Apple Podcasts Player FM Podbean Have...

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Ep 22: Being Gospel People in the Workplace Jul 09, 2018

We spend most of our waking hours at our jobs. So how do we use this time well to continue our efforts to make disciples? Kevin Jones joins Brian and Aaron to offer a few important principles to help us be on mission in the workplace on today’s episode of The Hero of the Story....

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Ep 21: The Difficult Art of Gospel-Centered Discipline Jul 02, 2018

One of the greatest challenges is figuring out the best way to discipline our children. With so many different viewpoints out there, many of us struggle to know where to even begin. How do we do this well, and what does discipline look like in light of the gospel? Kevin Jones joins Brian and Aaron to...

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Ep. 20: 7 Letters, 7 Churches and Our Churches Jun 25, 2018

How do we best understand the seven letters to seven churches in Revelation? Brandon Smith joins Brian and Aaron to help us discover how we see the good news on display in Revelation 2-3. Apple Podcasts Player FM Podbean Have questions or suggestions for an upcoming episode of The Hero of the Story? Reach out...

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Ep. 19: The End of the Bible’s Storyline Jun 18, 2018

Why do we need to read the book of Revelation? Brandon Smith joins Brian and Aaron to help us unpack the importance of one of the most confusing books of the Bible and understand why we should encourage one another to invest time in studying it. Apple Podcasts Player FM Have questions or suggestions for...

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Ep, 18: Building a Study of The Bible’s Big Story Jun 11, 2018

What goes into creating a study plan to explore the Bible’s big story? Brian and Aaron take you behind the curtain as they explain what goes into building a study of the story of redemption from all Scripture. Apple Podcasts Player FM Have a subject for a future episode? Reach out to The Gospel Project on Twitter....

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Ep 17: The Gospel, Lament, and Justice Jun 04, 2018

How should Christians understand a challenging passage like Psalm 137—and particularly Psalm 137:7-9—in light of the gospel? Brian and Aaron share a few helpful points to remind us that there is good news to be found in a cry of lament in today’s episode of The Hero of the Story. Apple Podcasts Player FM Have...

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Ep. 16: Discipleship and the Goal of Group Time May 28, 2018

Managing and navigating group discussions can be tricky at the best of times. So how do we do so in a gospel-centered way? Brian and Aaron share a few principles to help us stay focused on the goal of our group times, including how to deal with theological issues and members dominating the conversation, on...

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Ep. 15: Showing the Kindness of God May 21, 2018

In 2 Samuel 9, David asked, “Is there anyone remaining from the family of Saul I can show kindness to for Jonathan’s sake?” (2 Sam. 9:1). What does Davids extravagant kindness to Mephibosheth reveal to us about the gospel, and how does it challenge us to respond like wise? Brian and Aaron discuss this subject on today’s...

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Ep. 14: Explaining “The Beginning” to Students May 14, 2018

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” The opening words of the Bible are essential for everything else that comes after. But how do we equip students to answer the challenges to God’s creative power and rule over the world in a way that points people to the gospel? Andy McLean, the...

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Ep. 13: Teaching Tough Truths to Kids May 07, 2018

How did the story of God’s judgment on humanity become a staple of every Bible Storybook? How do we teach the true story of Noah and the Flood in an age appropriate way without missing its point? Aaron and Brian discuss this and more on today’s episode of The Hero of the Story. Have a...

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Ep. 12: Grumbling and Gratitude Apr 30, 2018

When the Israelites grumbled in the wilderness that they had no food to eat, the Lord provided bread from heaven. When they complained that they had no water to drink, He provided water—from a stone. How does this miraculous provision point us to the gospel? Aaron and Brian discuss this and more on today’s episode...

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Ep. 11: Love and Obedience Apr 23, 2018

“If you love me, you will keep my commands.” What is Jesus saying to us in John 14:15? Does this mean that we are saved by works? How does the gospel help us understand the relationship between love and obedience? Aaron and Brian discuss this subject and more on today’s episode of The Hero of...

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Ep. 10: Gospel Purity and Student Ministry Apr 16, 2018

How do we keep Student Ministry focused on the gospel, and protect our teens from confusing the gospel with behavior modification? Andy McLean, the Editor of The Gospel Project for Students and author of Big Questions, joins Aaron in the studio today to discuss this subject and more on today’s episode of The Hero of...

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Ep. 9: Learning to Love Leviticus Apr 09, 2018

How do we see Christ when we’re trying to not get stuck in a hard-to-read book of the Old Testament? That’s the question we’re addressing in this episode of The Hero of the Story, which is also our first audience request! Listen in as we discuss this subject and what we need to know to...

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Ep. 8: Unity in the Gospel Apr 02, 2018

How does the gospel call us to unity—and what do we lose when we don’t pursue it? That’s the question we’re addressing in this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss this subject and its implications from Galatians 1. Have a subject for a future episode? Reach out to The Gospel Project...

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Ep. 7: Gospel-Motivated Generosity Mar 26, 2018

How does the gospel shape and motivate our acts of generosity? That’s the question we’re addressing in this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss this subject and its implications from 2 Corinthians 8-9. Have a subject for a future episode? Reach out to The Gospel Project on Twitter. About the hosts:...

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Ep. 6: What do we mean by “Gospel Culture”? Mar 19, 2018

The term “gospel culture” might be a strange one, but it’s one you’re going to be hearing more and more from us at The Gospel Project. So what do we mean by it? That’s the question we’re addressing in this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss what it means...

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Ep. 5: Losing Your Grip on the Gospel Mar 12, 2018

What happens when we lose our grip on the gospel—and how do we prevent it from happening? That’s the question we’re addressing in this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss this subject and its implications from Galatians 1:6-9. Have a subject for a future episode? Reach out to The Gospel Project...

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Ep. 4: Gospel Threads in the New Testament Mar 05, 2018

How do we keep our focus on the gospel in the New Testament? That’s the question we’re addressing in this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we discuss how we keep losing our grip on the gospel after we’re done reading the Gospels, and why we need to fight our natural...

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Ep. 3: Gospel Threads in the Old Testament (part 2) Feb 28, 2018

What are some of the ways the Old Testament hints at the gospel? Listen in as we continue our discussion in this episode of The Hero of the Story. Today, we’re focusing on two additional examples from Scripture, beginning with least-read book of the Bible. Have a subject for a future episode? Reach out to The Gospel Project...

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Ep. 2: Gospel Threads in the Old Testament (part 1) Feb 26, 2018

What are some of the ways the Old Testament hints at the gospel? That’s the question we’re addressing in this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we begin a discussion on a topic that’s so big we couldn’t keep it to one episode! Have a subject for a future episode? Reach out...

The post Ep. 2: Gospel Threads in the Old Testament (part 1) appeared first on The Gospel Project.

Ep. 1: Does all Scripture really point to Jesus? Feb 21, 2018

Does all Scripture really point to Jesus? That’s the question we’re answering in this episode of The Hero of the Story. Listen in as we explore what it means—and doesn’t—to study the Scriptures from a Christ-centered perspective. Have a subject for a future episode? Reach out to The Gospel Project on Twitter. About the hosts: Brian Dembowczyk is...

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Ep. 0: Introducing The Hero of the Story Podcast Feb 19, 2018

Today, we’re excited to launch our new podcast, The Hero of the Story, helps you study and teach the story of redemption from all Scripture. Listen in as we introducing the heart behind the show and how we hope it helps you in your faith journey. Have a subject for future episode? Reach out to The...

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