Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight in God through faith in Jesus Christ

Latest Episodes:

Follow the star to find the King | Christmas Dec 08, 2023

Show notes

In today's episode, we continue our exploration of the Christmas story through the eyes of Joseph. Last week, we discovered the significance of Jesus' genealogy and pondered the complexities of our own family histories. Today, we dive into the remainder of Joseph's account found in Matthew chapter 2. Join us as we uncover the remarkable journey of the wise men from the East and the extraordinary role they played in the divine unfolding of Christmas. And don't miss the fascinating connections between these wise men and historical figures like Daniel and Esther. Grab a cup of spice-infused coffee and join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Matthew 2. Are you ready to spice up your understanding of the Christmas story? Let's get started.

Don't forget! Go to gospelspice.com/Christmas for a LOT of FREE and beautiful inspirations to make this Christmas your most Christ-centered and Gospel-spiced one! And also, brand new line of Christmas merch at gospelspice.com/merch - don't miss out!

MORE DETAILS | Stephanie begins the episode by reflecting on last week's exploration of the opening chapter of the Christmas story from the perspective of Matthew. She highlights the significance of genealogies and the complex emotions and stories they hold. Jesus' genealogy was no different, with both honorable and controversial figures making up his family tree.

The focus then shifts to Joseph's perspective of the Christmas story. Stephanie ponders the likelihood of Joseph and Matthew knowing each other while living in Nazareth, and how this small-town connection adds a personal touch to the narrative. She continues by inviting listeners to close their eyes and immerse themselves in the richness of the story.

Throughout the episode, Stephanie highlights the interactions between different characters and their roles in this pivotal moment. From the scholars who observed a special star in the eastern sky, to Herod's fearful response and his secret meeting with the wise men, every detail carries profound meaning. The journey of the wise men ultimately leads them to the house where Jesus, Joseph, and Mary reside, where they offer gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Stephanie also reveals the significance of the wise men's origins, be it Babylon or Persia, and how their access to Jewish Old Testament scrolls would have shaped their understanding of the prophecies concerning the future king of the Jews. The star that guided them hints at the deep connection between astrology and astronomy in the ancient world.

The episode concludes by emphasizing the unique perspectives Matthew and Luke bring to the Christmas story. While Matthew focuses on Joseph and the visit of the wise men, Luke most likely provides Mary's version, offering insights into the experiences of overbooked innkeepers, humble shepherds, Simeon, and Anna.

We invite you to listen to this thought-provoking episode of Gospel Spice as Stephanie untangles the intricacies of the Christmas story with her trademark knowledge and passion. You won't want to miss it!

As always, thank you for being a part of the Gospel Spice community. We appreciate your support, and we look forward to continuing serving you this Christmas!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit alongside Jesus and his initial audience? To experience the fresh spiritual flavors that the Messianic Jewish culture weaves into the four gospels? Well, that's exactly what we here aim to do through this original series, JESUS RABBI AND LORD. Stephanie invites you to dig deep into Scripture, unearthing raw diamonds that may need a little cleaning up, but will ultimately shine brightly.

So get ready to embark on this enlightening and transformative journey with Gospel Spice. Prepare to encounter Jesus in a way that resonates with our modern world and discover the richness of the gospel through the lens of Jewish culture. Let's dig deep, uncover the hidden spices, and experience the beauty of the Scriptures together. Welcome to Gospel Spice!

Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

The perfect gift for everyone - apparel, drinkware, stickers and more for all the women, men and kids in your life!

https://www.gospelspice.com/merch

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us.

1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup

2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice

3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!

4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!

So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:

1- signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup

2- find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice

3- rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!

4- and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Sharing your faith is simpler and less stressful than you might think! | with Shauna Pilgreen Dec 05, 2023

Show notes

Stephanie here! I had the amazing opportunity to chat with Shauna Pilgreen, co-leader of EPIC Church in San Francisco and author of the powerful book "Translating Jesus." Shauna Pilgreen shares her background, experiences in San Francisco, and her insights on approaching evangelism in fresh, relatable ways. The episode also touches on the dynamics of holiday gatherings and the importance of sharing personal stories of faith, empathy, and understanding.

We delved into the challenges of sharing faith in today's culture and the concept of being "bilingual" in understanding both our current culture and the culture of scripture and faith.

Navigating holiday gatherings with diverse beliefs was a pivotal part of our discussion, emphasizing the importance of sharing and listening to personal faith stories at the table. Shauna's insights on becoming "bilingual" in evangelism and the global relevance of translating Jesus for all people in different contexts left me truly inspired.

We highlighted the transformative power of listening in ministry and the need for Christians to remain culturally relevant while rooted in their faith. We also talked about how the Alpha course is transforming lives and providing non-threatening ways to share Christ and understand faith in today's world.

Our conversation culminated with focusing on believers' faith, those uncertain about faith, and encouragement to be a light during the holiday season. I can't stress enough the value of Shauna's book "Translating Jesus." It's a must-read! Shauna Pilgreen's wisdom and essential book are celebrated, and I'm excited to see the impact of becoming bilingual in sharing Christ's love for all. What an enriching discussion!

We invite you to tune in and gain wisdom from Shauna Pilgreen's experiences and insights. Be inspired to engage with others and share Christ's love and truth in creative, culturally relevant ways.

Don't miss out on this transformative conversation! Subscribe now and listen to Shauna Pilgreen on Gospel Spice.

Key Takeaways:

- Becoming Bilingual in Sharing the Gospel: we emphasize the importance of understanding both the language of culture and the language of Scripture to effectively share Jesus with diverse audiences.

- The Power of Listening in Ministry: We pondered the countercultural nature of genuinely listening to others before offering answers or advice, recognizing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the process.

- Engaging with the Changing Culture: Our discussion underscored the need for Christians to be culturally relevant while remaining rooted in their faith, emphasizing the relevance of translating Jesus for all people in different contexts.

CONNECT WITH SHAUNA PILGREEN

https://shaunapilgreen.com/

Hi there! I’m Shauna and I’m so glad you stopped by. You being here matters to me.

Chances are we know each other. But then again, some of you are new to me and me to you. I dwell in San Francisco. Not because I was born here or went to school here, but because my family and I said yes to the call of God to start a church here. It’s the hardest thing we’ve ever done. We had to make new friends (though we love our old ones). We moved far from family (nothing personal). We had no guarantee. We paid high rent. We brought three kids with us. And with all that was hard and scary and unknown, we believed God was in this and with us. The risk was worth it. And still is!

Do you know why you are where you are?

Can you see God’s purpose for you where you live?

Wherever you live, wherever you are on the faith journey, I am discovering right alongside you how to weave together faith and culture. I am sharing my findings in my blog posts, each page you click is full of purpose – all so that you can pick up the story God is writing for your life and live it out too!

for me, my roots can be found in texas, georgia, louisiana, alabama, missouri, and california. there’s no mistake on my journey, that if i’ve lived there, i made “home” as quick as possible to feel settled and sane. i’ve tried to leave a part of me in each place as my roots are uprooted, a part of me that left impact. though not always the story. each home contributes to the next home. suburbia feels normal until city living becomes the new normal.

wherever you live...

wherever you are on the faith journey...

i am discovering right along with you how to weave together faith and home. I am sharing my story with each post, each page full of purpose and influence -- all so that you will pick up the story God is writing for your life and live it out too!

BONUS | QUESTIONS TO TAKE THE CONVERSATION DEEPER

1. How does Shauna Pilgreen characterize the changing dynamics of evangelism in today's culture? How do you see this playing out in your own context?

2. What are some practical, foolproof ways you can think of to share Jesus with the current culture, especially during the holiday season?

3. What are some insights you gained from Shauna Pilgreen's discussion about the concept of being bilingual in understanding both the culture we live in and the culture of scripture and faith?

4. How have you seen the word "evangelism" misused or overused? What fresh approaches to evangelism have you found effective, and how could you implement them over the holidays?

5. What are some practical ways to engage in conversations with people of different beliefs during the holidays, while still showing empathy and understanding?

6. How can you relate to the importance of sharing and listening to personal stories of faith at the holiday table? What are some ways you could incorporate this into your own holiday gatherings?

7. What was your biggest takeaway from the discussion about engaging with people who don't have faith in Jesus and the importance of prayer for non-believers?

8. How can you apply the concept of looking at non-believers from Jesus's perspective and having hope that Jesus can draw them to himself, even despite their resistance, in your own interactions over the holidays?

9. What struck you about Shauna Pilgreen's emphasis on humility, service, and the importance of engaging in meaningful conversations over the holidays? How could you practice this in your own interactions?

10. How do you plan to approach the ideas of engaging in conversations with non-believers and giving the gift of time during the holiday season? Can you think of specific ways to implement these ideas in your own life?

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Uncovering the spicy family tree of Jesus Christ Dec 01, 2023

Show notes

Welcome back to another episode of Gospel Spice! Today, we have a special episode lined up, as Stephanie takes us on a journey through Matthew 1, exploring the fascinating genealogy of Jesus Christ, and the intriguing spices of memories that permeate His family tree.

Stephanie starts off by sharing her personal connection to the spice of nutmeg, which transports her back to her grandmother's kitchen and evokes both sweet and bitter memories. Just like Stephanie's bittersweet memory of nutmeg, Jesus' genealogy is also a mix of sweet and spicy family spices.

Hold on, we know what you're thinking - genealogies can be a bit tedious and easy to skip over. But trust us, this is not your average list of names! Matthew, the gospel writer, begins by grounding Jesus in history by tracing His lineage back to Abraham, highlighting His Jewish heritage. But it doesn't end there; Matthew masterfully captures the attention of his original audience by presenting Jesus as the King of the Jews, linked to the great King David.

Stephanie highlights how Matthew's genealogy is not just a boring list of names but a poetic and literary device to captivate the readers. Through three sets of 14 names, Matthew weaves a narrative that spans different periods of Jewish history, reminding his audience of the patriarchs, the judges, the kings, the Babylonian exile, and the silent years leading up to the birth of Jesus.

However, it is in verses 11 and 12 that Matthew drops a cultural bomb, introducing some less savory characters into Jesus' family tree. Stephanie refers to these names as 'poisonous family fumes,' demonstrating that even the family tree of Jesus Christ is not immune to broken relationships, bad habits, and family shame. This revelation serves as a reminder that Jesus came into the world not just as a perfect Savior, but as the one who redeems and restores even the most broken aspects of our lives.

As we explore Jesus' family tree, we'll uncover a spice-filled journey that reveals both the bittersweet memories and the cultural significance behind each name. Get ready for a roller coaster ride through history, culture, and the ultimate Jewish page-turner. So, grab your favorite Christmas beverage and join us as we unlock the profound significance of Jesus' genealogy in Matthew 1.

We invite you to tune in to this eye-opening episode, as Stephanie explores the significance of each set of names and invites us to reflect on our own family memory spices. Just as Jesus embraced His entire lineage, spices and all, we are encouraged to acknowledge the complex blend of memories and experiences that have shaped us.

Remember to subscribe to Gospel Spice on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode. Stay tuned for more engaging content that adds flavor and depth to your understanding of the Gospel.

We are praying for a blessed day for you today, filled with the sweet and spicy flavors of life in this Christmas season.

Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY!

First, PAY Gospel Spice Forward: Give a tax-deductible gift so others can experience our ministry for free, just like you! You can pay it forward with any debit, credit card, or via PayPal. See below for more details about your impact.

Also, PLAY Gospel Spice Forward: SHARE the podcast and the studies with your friends and family. FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW on your favorite podcast app (leave a comment + a star rating on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Pandora, IHeart, Google Podcast, etc…). It REALLY is the best way to help others find this content-rich podcast.

And, last but not least, PRAY Gospel Spice Forward: We pray for you weekly. We covet your prayers for our ministry, the thousands we reach, and our team! Contact us to let us know you are praying for us!

NEW!

Another way to partner with us is to purchase our workbooks and online Bible studies. We keep them at the lowest possible cost, but they require a lot of work from us! For example,

- a complete Bible Study requires an average of 500 man-hours.

- a workbook for a series requires almost 100 man-hours.

MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY:

Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status.

Our goal is to provide in-depth, high-quality, free Bible resources for all. They are free, but expensive to create! We need your financial support to keep producing and distributing them. Please pay Gospel Spice forward today! For example, a podcast episode takes close to 10 hours of work (and we release 2 each week). They come to you completely free, but we would truly love your support.

We want the money to go to those who really need it. Once our operating costs are paid, 100% of your donation is redistributed to our partners who fight human trafficking. Each year, we aim to give as much as we can. For example, Stephanie works more than full time for Gospel Spice, entirely for free. All board members and volunteers are donating time. We limit our operational expenses to the bare minimum.

Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170.

We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

The perfect gift for everyone - apparel, drinkware, stickers and more for all the women, men and kids in your life!

https://www.gospelspice.com/merch

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Be swift to love. Make haste to be kind. Nov 28, 2023

Show notes

Today we are talking about the pleasure of participating with God in His Kingdom building. He chose to invite us to participate. We cannot just be believers in Jesus, we need to be His followers. And it means involving every aspect of our lives. Our faith is about the delight to be where Jesus is. He invites us to love – to let Him love through us! And one of the best ways to love God, is to love others in His Name.So, my invitation to you today is to pray about it as you listen to Ros and me. Have a conversation with God about where He would have you focus your prayers, your time, and yes, your money. Listen to our vision and ask yourself if and how you want to be a part of it.My pastor says the same parting words each week at the end of the service at church. He says, “life is short, and we do not have much time to gladden the hearts of those who travel with us. So, be swift to love, and make haste to be kind.” It is a blessing that is inspired, originally, by the words of my French compatriot, Henri Frederic Amiel (1821-1881). This is what we are inviting you into.As we approach the end of another incredible year, we wanted to extend our deepest gratitude for your continued support and partnership in spreading the gospel message to countries all around the world. It is truly an honor to serve alongside each one of you!Don't forget! Go to gospelspice.com/Christmas for a LOT of FREE and beautiful inspirations to make this Christmas your most Christ-centered and Gospel-spiced one! And also, brand new line of Christmas merch at gospelspice.com/merch - don't miss out!In this special Giving Tuesday edition, we want to highlight the pleasure and privilege we have of participating with God in His kingdom building. God invites us to love others and to let Him love others through us.We heard the God-honoring, heartwarming story of a mother and son in Canada who have been faithfully listening to the podcast. Through the message of Gospel Spice, this young boy's faith has blossomed, and his relationship with God has become a source of hope and inspiration. It is stories like these that drive us to pour our hearts and souls into what we do.To continue expanding the impact of Gospel Spice, we have exciting plans for the future. We are committed to deepening personal intimacy with God and loving others as ourselves. We will continue producing impactful podcast episodes and engaging Bible studies, but we also have plans to develop new formats such as courses and expand our YouTube channel. Furthermore, we are laser-focused on combating human trafficking and supporting organizations that are making a difference in the lives of the most vulnerable.However, to achieve these goals and continue reaching even more lives, we need your support. There are several ways you can partner with us:PLAY GOSPEL SPICE FORWARD:1. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on social media: By doing so, you will stay connected with our latest content, receive inspiration, and be part of our growing community.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gospelspiceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gospelspicelife/2. Subscribe to our newsletter: Our newsletter includes exclusive content, free gifts, and updates on what God is doing through Gospel Spice. Don't miss out on these valuable resources!PRAY GOSPEL SPICE FORWARD:3. Prayer: We value your prayers immensely. Please pray for our ministry, our team, and all those touched by the Gospel Spice message. Let us know how we can pray for you as well. Prayer is a powerful way to make a difference!AND FINALLY, PAY GOSPEL SPICE FORWARD:4. Make a donation: Your financial contribution plays a vital role in sustaining and expanding the impact of Gospel Spice. Our platform relies on your generous gifts to deliver the message of the gospel to thousands of people worldwide. Your donation is tax-deductible in the US. Visit https://www.gospelspice.com/payitforward.We are excited to announce that a matching donor has come forward to encourage others to give generously to Gospel Spice. From now until December 31st, this generous donor will match all donations made during this period. Your gift has the potential to make double the impact!To make a donation, simply visit https://www.gospelspice.com/payitforward. We accept donations through PayPal, Venmo, and all major credit cards. Every dollar counts, and we sincerely appreciate both one-time and recurring monthly gifts. If you are able to make a recurring monthly gift, it helps us plan our resources more effectively.We also want to express our gratitude for the immense support we have received thus far. To show our appreciation, we have some exciting donor giveaways lined up for the end of the year. Ros is offering a set of her gorgeous, hand-made earrings; I have personally selected four inspiring books to give away to one lucky winner among our donors. As an extra special touch, we will also include a Gospel Spice tote bag. These tote bags were a hit at a recent conference and can be purchased on our website.Additionally, for those who donate $20 or more between now and Christmas, we have prepared a Jesse Tree, which allows you to journey through the Advent season with a Scripture verse and ornament for each day. It is our little way of saying thank you for your generous support.Please know that your donations are stewarded responsibly. Last year alone, Gospel Spice donated over $5,000 to these incredible causes. Our lean budget ensures that your contributions are utilized exclusively for spreading the gospel and making a tangible impact.As we look ahead to 2024, we humbly acknowledge that our ministry is a work in progress. We embrace the willingness to make mistakes and grow alongside those who desire a deeper intimacy with God. We are committed to coming alongside you, our Gospel Spice community, in this beautiful journey together.So, here is a reminder of how you can PLAY, PRAY, and PAY Gospel Spice forward today:✅ Subscribe to our YouTube channel, follow us on social media, and most importantly, sign up for our newsletter. By doing so, you'll stay connected with exclusive content, free gifts, and prayer support.✅ Make a donation to support our work. Gospel Spice is diligently stewarding funds to maximize our impact. All donations are tax-deductible in the US, and a matching donor will double your contribution made until December 31st! Go to https://www.gospelspice.com/payitforward ✅ Explore our newly developed digital workbooks and courses. These resources deepen your intimacy with God and equip you for a deeper walk of faith.Thank you once again for your unwavering support and partnership. We are truly grateful for the privilege of serving alongside each one of you!May God bless you abundantly as we celebrate this season of giving and contending for the Gospel together!THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY!First, PAY Gospel Spice Forward: Give a tax-deductible gift so others can experience our ministry for free, just like you! You can pay it forward with any debit, credit card, or via PayPal. See below for more details about your impact.Also, PLAY Gospel Spice Forward: SHARE the podcast and the studies with your friends and family. FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW on your favorite podcast app (leave a comment + a star rating on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Pandora, IHeart, Google Podcast, etc…). It REALLY is the best way to help others find this content-rich podcast. And, last but not least, PRAY Gospel Spice Forward: We pray for you weekly. We covet your prayers for our ministry, the thousands we reach, and our team! Contact us to let us know you are praying for us!NEW!Another way to partner with us is to purchase our workbooks and online Bible studies. We keep them at the lowest possible cost, but they require a lot of work from us! For example, - a complete Bible Study requires an average of 500 man-hours. - a workbook for a series requires almost 100 man-hours.MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY:Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status.Our goal is to provide in-depth, high-quality, free Bible resources for all. They are free, but expensive to create! We need your financial support to keep producing and distributing them. Please pay Gospel Spice forward today! For example, a podcast episode takes close to 10 hours of work (and we release 2 each week). They come to you completely free, but we would truly love your support.We want the money to go to those who really need it. Once our operating costs are paid, 100% of your donation is redistributed to our partners who fight human trafficking. Each year, we aim to give as much as we can. For example, Stephanie works more than full time for Gospel Spice, entirely for free. All board members and volunteers are donating time. We limit our operational expenses to the bare minimum.Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170.We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogDo you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1- signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2- find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3- rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4- and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogWhat matters to us here at Gospel Spice is to create a place where people who seek deeper intimacy with Jesus, will find Him. We want a warm, welcoming atmosphere to journey ever deeper into the heart of God. We believe it is the ultimate calling of the Christian life, and I like to summarize it with my motto, God’s glory, our delight. That is why we invite you to “taste and see” that the Lord is good. And we have been doing this every day since 2019. We need YOU to keep Gospel Spice alive and growing. Financially speaking, we rely on people who understand this vision and who understand that we cannot function without a minimum budget. We run an extremely tight budget. For example, I work full time but don’t draw a salary. And yet, we have expenses – for example, the equipment and technology we use, and also the wonderfully gifted staff who make it possible to deliver high quality content all around the globe, and then the necessary occasional promotional budget to make it possible to be discovered by those who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We need your help. So we would love for you to consider if this ministry is blessing you to pay gospel spice forward. You can partner with us monthly with 10, 25, 50, 100, a month, or you can make one donation, once.And because we are a register nonprofit organization in the United States under the status of a 501c3 charity, it means that the amount that you pay to gospel spice is fully tax deductible. Completely tax deductible. So you're even saving money as you invest in gospel spice ministries. It is an eternal investment, and we are very grateful to you for it.Now it's very important to us that we give back as much as possible from what you give us. And so we commit to giving the majority of what we receive, once all of our administrative costs are paid, to organizations that fight human trafficking on the front line. There are many worthwhile causes in the world, so why this one? Because I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – maybe because I have never been its victim myself, so I feel a responsibility to help those less fortunate than me. Also, because Jesus tells us to love our neighbor. Human trafficking is modern day slavery, and that is something that revolts the heart of God. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil. So, we do some due diligence. We pick organizations who have proven themselves trustworthy of our support. And then we give money to these Christians organizations that fight human trafficking.So would you consider paying us forward at gospelspice.com/payitforward?Your hard-earned money is always well used at Gospel Spice. Ultimately, you are giving back to the Kingdom, a portion of what Jesus has given you. We are well aware of the privilege to steward your partnership. And my prayer is always that you will find your own life spiced with the gospel as you partner with us to flavor the lives of those around us, near and far, with the spice of the gospel.Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Full show notes at the publisher

Scriptural Fusion Cuisine | Unveiling Gourmet Prophecy Bite by Bite Nov 24, 2023

Show notes

Welcome back to another episode of Gospel Spice, the podcast that blends Scripture with culture to bring you a fresh and flavorful perspective on the gospel. Just like a decadent piece of dark chocolate enhanced by the infusion of fresh basil, Stephanie reveals how Scripture shines brighter against the backdrop of Jewish culture.

In today's episode, we're going to explore the rich ingredients of the Jewish biblical heritage and how they enhance our understanding of prophecy. Did you know that prophecy makes up a significant portion of the Bible? Stephanie draws a mouth-watering analogy, comparing this percentage to the difference between basic dark chocolate and gourmet dark chocolate. So, rest assured, the Scriptures definitely qualify as gourmet chocolate!

As Stephanie dives into the importance of understanding Jewish culture, she emphasizes that knowing the history, geography, and idioms of the ancient world enhances our understanding of biblical truth. Just as a chef infuses delicious flavors to create a culinary masterpiece, Stephanie encourages us to infuse our experience of Scripture with the basil of Jewish culture.

But here's the catch: understanding prophecy can be daunting, like acquiring a taste for the intense flavors of gourmet chocolate. That's why we need to delve into the Jewish culture that infuses Scripture with richness and depth. From the history of Israel to the titles attributed to Jesus, every aspect of Jewish culture adds flavor to our understanding of the gospel.
Join Stephanie on this mouthwatering adventure into the depths of Scripture, where prophecy, culture, and divine truths come together to bring a new dimension to your understanding of God's Word. So grab your virtual passport, because we're embarking on a journey to explore the geography, history, idioms, and more that make up the Jewish culture. And what better way to kick off this Thanksgiving-themed adventure than by delving into the Christmas story and its connection to prophecy? Join us as we uncover the hidden gems of Scripture and savor the spiritual fusion cuisine of the gospel. This is Gospel Spice, where Scripture and culture collide. Let's dive in.

Don't forget to subscribe to Gospel Spice on your favorite podcast platform to receive notifications for future episodes and to stay updated on all things Gospel Spice. Together, we'll savor the flavors of Scripture and uncover the incredible insights they hold.

Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY!

NEW!

Another way to partner with us is to purchase our workbooks and online Bible studies. We keep them at the lowest possible cost, but they require a lot of work from us! For example,

- a complete Bible Study requires an average of 500 man-hours.

- a workbook for a series requires almost 100 man-hours.

MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY:

Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status.

Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170.

We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us.

2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice

4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!

So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:

1- signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup

2- find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice

3- rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!

4- and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

We offer high-quality, full color, gorgeous PDF downloadable workbooks to come alongside each episode of this original series of Gospel Spice, Jesus Rabbi and Lord. These workbooks allow you to build your library of in-depth Biblical studies and content to maximize your time in Scripture and amplify your intimacy with God. For each episode, we offer:

- an episode summary

- a listening guide

- key takeaways from the episode

- key quotes

- Bible verses to enhance your experience

- up to 10 questions per episode to take charge of your quiet time

- topics for further research, based on the episode content.

There are 3 workbooks, each containing over 10 episodes to cover the entire series. You can buy them separately, or as a bundle for an amazing price!

Go now to https://www.gospelspice.com/jesus for the details and to purchase your Jesus Rabbi and Lord workbooks!

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Unmask the performance culture to embrace God’s unique path for you | with Nicole Jacobsmeyer Nov 21, 2023

Show notes

Have you ever struggled with comparison, performance, relationships, or the desire to be someone else? Have you ever felt lonely and misunderstood? I sure have. Which is why I am so happy to be joined by my dear friend Nicole Jacobsmeyer today. Nicole and I have had countless conversations this past year as we have sought to deepen our experience and understanding of humility, comparison, suffering, pain, faith, perseverance in Christ, self-awareness, discipline, and the spirit of performance. So, today we are here to invite you into the dance of surrender to discover the attractiveness of true worship.

In this episode, Nicole and I embark on a beautiful journey of self-reflection, vulnerability, and biblical insight that aims to leave you inspired and encouraged, and reminds you that you are not alone. We explore the intricate dance between our actions and our motives. Nicole and I dive into the question of why we engage in all our various activities. Are we doing them to show off or to offer praise? We reflect on the concept of sacrificial worship and its presence in our everyday actions.

The journey of faith is not always easy, and we all face seasons of doubt and questioning. Nicole shares her personal experience of pain, evil, and suffering, and the impact it had on her view of God. We discuss how she embarked on a journey to understand God's character through the lens of her own suffering. Through it all, she discovered the privilege of suffering with and for Christ.

But our conversation doesn't stop there. We go further, exploring the impact of social media and the role it plays in our lives. Nicole shares how she had to set boundaries with social media, questioning whether it is truly necessary to be a part of it. We delve into the motives behind our posts and the need for authenticity. Are our online lives aligned with our offline selves? Do our loved ones and colleagues affirm the person we present online?

This candid discussion between two friends, who have journeyed together on various topics over the past year, serves as a heartfelt invitation to all those struggling with comparison, performance, and the desire to be someone else. Join us as we challenge the prevailing narratives of comparison, performance, and the prosperity gospel. We uncover the truth that genuine kindness, love, and grace come from Jesus and our identity in Him, not from our achievements or striving. We discuss the importance of a personal relationship with Christ rather than being driven by materialistic prizes or external measures of success.

Throughout our conversation, one message shines through - our purpose as Christians is not in what we do, but in the Person we serve, who is the Lord. We explore surrendering to God and the beauty of walking humbly and serving others.

So, if you've ever struggled with comparison, performance, relationships, or the desire to be someone else, this episode is for you. Join us as we dive deep into these topics and seek to uncover the true flavors of the gospel in our lives. Let’s dive together into this insightful and thought-provoking conversation with Nicole Jacobsmeyer, right here on Gospel Spice.

May you be encouraged, inspired, and filled with the joy of knowing that God is always by your side, carrying you through the highs and lows of life's dance.

MORE ABOUT NICOLE

Meet her here: https://www.nicolejacobsmeyer.com/

"Hi! I’m Nicole and I am so happy we found each other. A little bit about me… Besides my relationship with Christ, the most important people in my life are: my husband Andrew, and our 4 kiddos! I love people, comfy clothes, chocolate chips cookies, being a mom, watching my kids play sports, writing and speaking, and a good cup of tea.

Since becoming a mom almost 9 years ago, my life mantra has been: Embrace the Chaos! With a husband in the medical field, four little kids, and lots of moves over the years, I needed an outlet to write. The Embracing Chaos blog was started in 2016 and four years later, I launched nicolejacobsmeyer.com as my author hub!

When it comes to ministry outside of the home, I have a passion for helping and equipping women to stand firm, walk faithfully, and live full of joy regardless of our circumstances. I know how difficult it is to do that, but you are not alone in your pain. Praise the Lord He is walking with us in every season.

In other HUGE news, my first book came out October 2022 and the companion workbook, Discover Purpose in Pain, came out March 2023! I am overjoyed that these continue to reach those who are dealing with pain, trauma, heartbreak and suffering. I’m right there with you friend. Let’s allow the Lord to restore our joy this year!

NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/start

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:

Identity in the battle | Ephesians

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/

Malachi: Messenger to Messiah

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/

Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/

Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/

Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us.

2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice

4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!

So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:

1- signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup

2- find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice

3- rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!

4- and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Revealing Jesus in the context of His very own culture Nov 17, 2023

Show notes

Stephanie invites you to meet Matthew, and to dive headfirst into the gospel he wrote, exploring its rich cultural background and understanding how it uniquely unfolds the life of Jesus.

From the genealogy of Jesus all the way to the great commission, Matthew's Gospel carries a powerful message that transcends ethnic and cultural barriers. But first, let's acknowledge something crucial: the world has changed significantly since Matthew penned his gospel over 2,000 years ago. In fact, he assumed his audience, rooted in 1st century Jewish culture, would understand his own cultural references without needing further explanation.

In other words, certain cultural nuances and references may be lost on us as modern readers. Stephanie highlights that Matthew's original audience would have understood and appreciated these cultural references, which were deeply ingrained in their lives. Drawing from this, she emphasizes the need for cultural awareness in our Christian living to ensure that we fully grasp the richness and depth of Matthew’s Gospel.

This is where we often miss out on the nuanced flavors that Matthew's teachings offer. Together, we'll unpack the cultural richness behind Matthew's narrative and explore how it impacts our understanding of Jesus and our Christian living. From the shift in emphasis from a local Jewish context to a global perspective, to the significance of the term "church" and its implications across ethnic barriers, we'll embark on a journey that will broaden our horizons and ignite our faith.

Throughout the upcoming weeks and months, we invite you to join us as we experience the biography of Jesus through fresh and flavorful lenses. We invite you to join us on this exciting exploration of the Gospel of Matthew. Open your Bibles to the first book of the New Testament and let us together delve deep into the scriptures as we seek to experience the transformative power of God's Word.

We will be journeying through Matthew's biography of Jesus in a chronological order, uncovering the treasures that lay within each chapter. Matthew will highlight for us the power of Jesus' identity as God, King, and Messiah, made visible among other elements through Messianic miracles. As we journey through the pages of Matthew's Gospel, we hope to gain fresh insights, ignite our faith, and see Jesus in a whole new light.

Our desire is that you will have an explosion of faith and encounter Jesus in new and transformative ways. So, get ready to taste and savor the incredible flavors of the Gospel of Matthew.

May the words of Scripture leap off the page and into our hearts, transforming us into passionate followers of Jesus Christ!

Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

The perfect gift for everyone - apparel, drinkware, stickers and more for all the women, men and kids in your life!

https://www.gospelspice.com/merch

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Feast on the Word, don’t just read it! | with Kristi McLelland Nov 14, 2023

Show notes

Welcome back to Gospel Spice, the podcast that adds a little spice to your everyday walk with Jesus! I'm your host, Stephanie Rousselle, and I am beyond excited for today's episode featuring the delightful Kristi McLelland. She is a well-known and loved Bible teacher, frequent Israel traveler, and Professor at Williamson College where she focuses on teaching the Bible from its historical, cultural, geographic and linguistic contexts. Needless to say, I love her work, focus, and mission! She is known for her outstanding Bible study, Jesus and Women. But now, she also just released one of my favorite books of 2023, Rediscovering Israel. If you like history and want to understand Israel in general, and Jesus in particular, through the lens of history, geography, language and culture, then this is the book for you! May I even suggest, it would be the perfect Christmas gift for someone you know!

This conversation invites you into a powerful prayer journey. Learn how to embody the word of God, not just know it, as Kristi shares her deep insights from her study in Egypt and Israel. Discover the communal nature of Scripture and why it's important to be feasting saints, embodying and feasting on the word of God. Kristi and I also discuss the significance of the intertestamental period, and Jesus' celebration of Hanukkah.

We explore the Jewish roots of the scriptures and the transformative power of prayer and embracing abundance. I love how Kristi McLelland appreciates the Jewish roots of the Scriptures. The intertestamental period between Malachi and Matthew is a focal point of our conversation. Kristi brilliantly compares it to preparing a nursery for Jesus' birth. It's all about setting the stage for Jesus' arrival. Kristi McLelland's study of scripture in Egypt and Israel was a life-changing experience. She emphasizes the importance of embodying the Word rather than just knowing it.

We must be "feasting saints" rather than just "reading saints." The communal nature of Scripture for the Jewish people teaches us the importance of embodying and feasting on the Word of God. As the conversation progresses, I get to connect my love for Jewish culture and food, highlighting the connection between the French language and the delightfulness of God. It's all about the senses and embracing the abundant goodness of our Creator!

The imminence of God for the Jewish people is awe-inspiring. He's present in their history, in the temple, and in every aspect of their lives. Such a powerful reminder of His intimacy and closeness. In the same way, prayer is not just a passive act; it's an invitation to participate in God's restoration and renewal. Our prayers should have hands and feet, actively engaged in transforming the world around us.

The Western culture's scarcity mindset is challenged in this conversation. There's an alternative philosophy of abundance that allows us to be generous and give our lives away. We have a heavenly Father who is abundantly generous to us! Living in abundance instead of scarcity allows us to move freely and lightly through the world. It's a powerful witness to those around us. We have been saved into a family and community that thrives on abundance. The resurrection is the ultimate proof of abundance. It opens the door to endless possibilities and invites us to embrace the fullness of life in Christ. What a game-changer!

Jesus often surprises us and does things differently than expected, but His transformative power remains unmatched. “Tikkun Olam,” the repair of the world, is an invitation for us to actively participate in God's work. Prayer is more than just a conversation; it's a partnership with God's plans, actively contending and co-laboring with Him. The Lord's Prayer is an open invitation to actively participate in the ushering of God's kingdom here on Earth. Let's not settle for passive prayers; let's engage in bringing heaven down to earth!

Kristi shares a powerful message about how walking closely with Jesus can lead to a transformation from scarcity to abundance. We discuss the importance of prayer and getting involved in repairing the world. Prayer is not just about words but an invitation to actively participate in restoration and renewal. Kristi emphasizes the philosophy of abundance and how it allows us to live freely and generously, shining as lights in a world of scarcity. We'll learn about the concept of yada, intimate knowing, and how it can deepen our relationship with God. We'll also explore the cyclical nature of time in Middle Eastern culture and how God reaches back in time to heal and restore broken things.

This conversation is a reminder that our prayers are not limited to mere words. They're an embodiment of our desire to be involved in what we're praying for. Let's pray with intention and act with conviction.

Join us as we journey together through the pages of Scripture, uncovering hidden treasures and expanding our knowledge and experience of God. Get ready to be challenged, inspired, and equipped to live out your faith with hands and feet firmly rooted in the abundance of God's love.

So grab your favorite beverage, get cozy, and get ready for an episode that will ignite a fire in your heart and draw you closer to the heart of Jesus. Don't forget to follow us on social media, because trust me, you won't want to miss out on the Christ-centered content we'll be sharing. Let's get started with the delightful Kristi McLelland on today's episode of Gospel Spice!

Key takeaways from this conversation

1️⃣ Embodying the Word: Kristi emphasizes the importance of not just knowing Scripture, but embodying it. She draws upon biblical figures like Deborah, Ezekiel, and Jeremiah, who spoke about eating and embodying the Word of God. As Christians, we are called to be feasting saints, not just reading saints.

2️⃣ Prayer as Partnership: Prayer is not simply a request to God, but an opportunity to actively partner with Him in the restoration of the world. Kristi highlights the Jewish perspective on prayer, viewing it as contending with God and actively participating in bringing prayers to pass. Prayer should have hands and feet, actively engaging in the fulfillment of what is prayed for.

3️⃣ Abundance over Scarcity: Western culture often operates from a mindset of scarcity, resulting in competition and disunity. However, Kristi presents an alternative philosophy of abundance, rooted in the understanding of God's generosity. Living in abundance allows us to move through the world with sufficiency, generosity, and a powerful witness to others.

MEET KRISTI MCLELLAND

Professor. Teacher. Biblical Culturalist. Kristi is a professor at Williamson College and serves as a biblical culturalist. She has a Masters in Christian Education from Dallas Theological Seminary and has dedicated her life to teaching people how to study the Bible.

After studying in Israel and Egypt in 2007 and discovering that God is better than she ever knew, Kristi has been teaching the Bible through a Middle Eastern lens, in its historical, geographical, cultural and linguistic context. Kristi encourages believers to be postured to receive what God is saying, which is best done through communally experiencing Scripture. Kristi teaches about the goodness of God, experienced through table fellowship, practicing hospitality and collaborative wisdom.

During her years as a professor at Williamson College and Director of Christian Education and Women’s Ministry at local churches, Kristi has taught and shepherded thousands. Since 2008 she has led biblical studies trips to Israel and studied and trained under Dr. Jim Martin, Rabbi Ken Alpren and world-renowned Israeli archaeologist Dr. Gabi Barkay.

Kristi’s trips to Israel, Turkey, Greece and Italy, along with her Middle Eastern Lens classes, help Westerners study and appreciate the Bible as it was written by Middle Easterners in a Middle Eastern context. This lens offers a deeper look into what the biblical characters meant in what they did, said and wrote. This enhanced understanding of the biblical framework positions us to better open our eyes, ears and hearts to the Living God who is constantly pursuing us.

Kristi is available to assist churches, colleges, organizations and other groups in discovering the Bible through a Middle Eastern lens.

https://www.newlensbiblicalstudies.com/

NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/start

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:

Identity in the battle | Ephesians

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/

Malachi: Messenger to Messiah

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/

Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/

Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Embracing Jesus: how do I learn to trust Him even when His way doesn’t seem best? Nov 10, 2023

Show notes

Who would ever have thought that an understated miracle tucked away in the pages of Matthew could be the reason that initially led the Pharisees to want to crucify Jesus? Before she tells us about that, however, Stephanie takes us on a deep dive into the concept of discipline. She explores the idea of discipline as tough love, reflecting on her own personal experiences as a mother and the pain she felt when disciplining her own children. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of discipline for growth and teaching responsibility.

Stephanie guides us through the historical and cultural context of Matthew 12, highlighting how the Jewish audience would have been familiar with the concept of discipline through their understanding of Old Testament prophetic passages. These passages were regularly discussed in the synagogue, shaping their understanding of God's discipline.

Stephanie uncovers the root of the Pharisees' rejection of Jesus, as they sought a Messiah who would promote their own version of Judaism. Jesus' consistent criticism of their approach challenged their expectations. Throughout the episode, she shares her personal story, inviting us to consider our own responses to Jesus as Lord, even when His ways differ from our own. She challenges us to bow to Jesus as King, even when it's not convenient or aligning with our personal opinions.

The episode concludes with a fascinating exploration of Judges 13 and the encounter between Manoah and the angel of the Lord. Stephanie draws parallels between this encounter and the theme of casting out demons, highlighting the power struggle between the spiritual realm and the earthly realm.

So, whether you're seeking a deeper understanding of Jesus' teachings, wrestling with the concept of discipline, or simply curious to explore the wisdom and beauty of the Gospel, this episode is for you. If you haven't already, make sure to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review to let us know your thoughts.

Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of the Gospel Spice community. May the message of grace, love, and redemption fill your hearts and lives.

Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

The perfect gift for everyone - apparel, drinkware, stickers and more for all the women, men and kids in your life!

https://www.gospelspice.com/merch

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us.

2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice

4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!

So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:

1- signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup

2- find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice

3- rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!

4- and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

Bonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.

Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways:

1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too!

2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app;

and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. So, be part of the spice of the gospel by becoming a financial partner today!

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Becoming like Yeshua & honoring Him with humility and reverence | with Rabbi Aaron Allsbrook Nov 07, 2023

Show notes

Rabbi Aaron Allsbrook joins me today on Gospel Spice to talk about what is like to be a Messianic Jew today. We talk about his own personal journey of faith, that took him from the West Coast to Israel, Europe and then New York. He questioned faith in Yeshua, only to embrace Him as his Savior more fully and wholeheartedly.

Today, he shepherds a congregation just outside of Washington, DC, so we talk about the particular challenges of this role in our day and age. His congregation’s vision statement is, “Becoming like Yeshua. Loving our Jewish brothers and sisters.”

Rabbi Aaron Allsbrook shares with me the challenges and beauty of millennia of history and tradition – how do we navigate them to honor God, respecting and learning humbly from those who have come before us? And, how do we do so, without succumbing to the tyranny of man-made religiosity. He will help us understand the facts about the beautiful presence of Messianic Jews in the US, the world, and then also in Israel. He tells us of his heart and passion to tell his Jewish neighbors all over the world about Yeshua, and how we too can share Him with them.

I had a few burning questions for him, and he was so kind to indulge me. For example, I asked him what the church in general can learn from our Jewish brothers and sisters in Christ. His answer is insightful. We talked about how to pray for them, too. His suggestion will inspire you.

And of course, we talked about the current situation in Israel. And there again, his words will invite you to ponder and worship. Indeed, Rabbi Aaron is unequivocal: Yeshua alone is the solution.

So, join us for a conversation that will leave you encouraged, and challenged to share the light of Yeshua around you to a world in much, much need and pain.

If you are interested in discovering Rabbi Aaron’s congregation, and to view the services, you can do so here: https://www.facebook.com/ohevites/videos

You will find the Ohev Yisrael Messianic congregation here: https://www.ohevyisrael.org/

MORE ABOUT RABBI AARON ALLSBROOK

Born and raised in Southern California, Rabbi Aaron Allsbrook has known Yeshua his whole life. He shared about Yeshua to his Jewish and non-Jewish friends in high school. At the end of high school Rabbi Aaron began to feel that there was more to his Jewishness than just Passover and Hanukkah at his grandparents.

At this time he made his first visit to a messianic synagogue in Philadelphia, his first trip to Israel, and then his first visit to an Orthodox synagogue. God certainly was moving in his life, revealing to him that his Jewishness was something central to his identity. He went so far as to begin to live like an Orthodox Jew, including getting Orthodox rabbinic ordination.

Not longer after that Rabbi Aaron knew there was something missing, something more. While the traditions were great, he craved for more of the Spirit of God and the love of Yeshua. He left the Orthodox world, and began to seek a way of living an authentic Jewish life under the leading of the Spirit.

His travels brought him to Israel, where he lived for four years, and then to New York, where he met his beautiful wife, Brooke, with whom he has four children. It was in New York that he was a special education teacher and an assistant rabbi at a Messianic synagogue on Long Island. After several years of serving in this capacity, he wanted to pursue being a full-time Messianic rabbi, which is what led him to Ohev Yisrael.

He desires to see Jewish people come to know Yeshua, their Messiah, and live their life in service of our Master as Jews full of the Spirit of God.

NEW TO GOSPEL SPICE? YOU ARE WELCOME HERE!

Check out our free resources, and more, at https://www.gospelspice.com/start

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Here are a few suggestions:

Identity in the battle | Ephesians

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/

Malachi: Messenger to Messiah

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/

Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/

Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/

Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us.

2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice

4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!

So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:

1- signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup

2- find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice

3- rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!

4- and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight in God through faith in Jesus Christ

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected