The Living Waters Podcast

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Ep. 245 - How Christians Can Use the Internet to Share the Gospel Mar 26, 2024

Show notes

In his lifetime, the apostle Paul likely reached thousands of people. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss how in today’s age, one video can come across the screens of millions of people. Imagine how many people Paul could have reached if he had been able to access the internet.
Digital evangelism can take many forms: posting Bible passages on Facebook, uploading YouTube videos, or posting a podcast. Each like, share, and comment is one more person that may hear the gospel. Even when dealing with negative comments, believers can engage in conversations that share Christ with the world.
However, not everyone should pursue social media evangelism in this way. The feedback from society can easily sway someone when their identity is placed somewhere other than in Christ. Social media can draw out the worst in us. Oscar shares about a pastor who changed his outward presentation because engagement went up when he used strong rhetoric. Our souls are not meant for fame, so when we have an audience it can shape us in a way that is not beneficial. When we hand our souls over to audience capture, we are conforming to society rather than conforming to Christ.
As a Christian, if you aren’t evangelizing privately, you may need to reflect before you evangelize publicly. The guys recognize that in the midst of sharing the gospel, believers may be holding a sinful attitude. Motive does come to play in this. Sometimes we get this idea that the only way to share the gospel is to be a missionary, but Christians should share the gospel with the people around them, not just those in another country.
So how does one start sharing the gospel on social media? If you are bold, you can simply go ask people if you can interview them for YouTube. You may receive a lot of no’s, but just have open and honest conversations with those who say yes. Editing videos can be done using simple software like iMovie. Even memes can be used to reach people with the gospel. The Word of God is living and powerful, even simple messages can be evangelism tools. Podcasts are another way to reach people. At the start, the guys didn’t know what the result of starting a podcast would be and now it’s a means of reaching believers and unbelievers with the gospel.
Remember that God’s Word doesn’t return void. Share scripture, gospel videos, sermons, and ask people what their thoughts are. There’s so much you can do, but the bottom line is that when your heart is set on obeying the Lord, God will give you creativity as you take steps to follow His call.

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Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating!
Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.
You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!
Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro

Ep. 244 - Is It Wrong for Christians to Go to a Gay or Transgender Wedding? Mar 21, 2024

Show notes

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar approach the question of if it is right for Christians to attend a wedding when the union is not between one man and one woman. It is pointed out that any marriage that falls outside of what is outlined in the Bible is merely a celebration, not a true wedding. The argument centers on the sacredness of marriage being a union established by God between one man and one woman. The discourse critiques the societal trend of accepting diverse truths and advocates for unwavering adherence to what is considered absolute truth, which has been laid out for us in the Bible.
The guys discuss the complexity faced by Christians who disapprove of gay marriage but desire to extend compassion to family members or friends. It highlights the dilemma of attending a wedding as an act of affirmation for a covenant that, from a Christian standpoint, should only be between a man and a woman. The challenge is framed within the broader societal narrative, where tolerance is deemed paramount, sometimes at the expense of absolute truths.
A reference is made to Alistair Begg's advice on attending a wedding involving homosexuality, acknowledging that his counsel led to public division within Christian circles. The need for believers to handle controversy, whether privately or publicly, is emphasized. The narrative urges Christians to stand firm on truth, even in the face of societal contradictions and challenges.
The discussion critiques societal paradoxes, such as smiling about abortion while reacting harshly to misgendering. The guys emphasize how important it is for believers to speak the truth with grace and love, recognizing that asserting something as true does not necessarily make it so. The discussion continues to remind Christians to prepare for situations that may challenge their convictions, navigating the complexities with love and adherence to their faith.
The guys explore the possible tension that could arise between attending a gay wedding and maintaining relationships, asserting that abstaining from attendance doesn't signify the end of a relationship. It calls for Christians to be prepared to represent Christ in such situations, acknowledging the potential for differing convictions among believers.
Christians are reminded of Jesus' role in bringing division, emphasizing the necessity of integrating the gospel into conversations. It argues that rejection may occur not due to individual behavior but because of Christ residing within believers.

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Ep. 243 - The Patience of God Mar 19, 2024

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In this episode, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar dive into understanding God's patience. Man’s capacity to grasp the fullness of God’s patience remains limited, especially when contemplating our sins in the context of a holy God. The guys discuss the Book of Judges and how it illustrates God's enduring patience, despite the people doing what pleased themselves.
God's patience is boundless, contrasting sharply with human limitations. Attempting to compare His attributes, such as patience, kindness, and love, to our personal experiences with the same attributes proves challenging. The guys discuss the Exodus narrative, and how God's patience is evident when the Israelites turn to false idols, yet He refrains from immediate destruction. In this passage is an example of how believers often take God's patience for granted, mirroring the Israelites' behavior. Gratitude should motivate Christians to emulate God's patience, adopting a slow-to-anger attitude and extending grace to others. Trials serve as building blocks for patience, a theme emphasized in James 5, where God's honor is associated with patience.
God's patience extends to the refinement of believers. Love, grace, and patience are interconnected, fostering spiritual growth. Reflecting on past wrongs helps believers exercise patience when faced with transgressions from others. Even toward enemies, God demonstrates patience, delaying wrath for the sake of salvation.
The ultimate manifestation of patience is seen in Jesus' death. Instead of summoning angels for protection, He patiently endured until death, underscoring the importance of maintaining focus on the Lord. Praying for patience invites opportunities to practice it, often through life's inconveniences. When dealing with unbelievers, Christians are encouraged to be patient, considering the diverse backgrounds from which individuals come. The guys talk about the life of Paul and how it serves as a compelling example of patience, tied to the remembrance of the pre-Christian state.
Impatience is labeled as sin, representing a departure from God's love and gentleness. Remembering the grace received from Christ helps temper our impatience. While not every offense requires confrontation, speaking the truth in love remains an essential aspect of Christian interactions. Essentially, God’s patience serves as a model for believers, shaping their daily interactions and responses to various circumstances.

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Ep. 242 - The Mercy of God Mar 14, 2024

Show notes

In exploring the distinct characteristics of God, theologians often define “grace” as receiving what one doesn't deserve, and “mercy” as not receiving what one does deserve. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar remind listeners that every breath is an unearned mercy, reinforcing the concept that grace is not guaranteed. Christians should be careful not to abuse God's mercy, as sinning because of mercy leads to judgment without mercy.
Grace and mercy, intertwined, reveal God's kindness and love, yet justice remains a crucial consideration. Rejecting God's love, kindness, mercy, and grace invites justice without the cushion of grace. The crucifixion of Jesus on the Cross becomes the pivotal moment where grace, mercy, and God's justice harmonize, granting humanity what it doesn't deserve.
The term "perfect" aptly describes God's flawless mercy, mirrored in Christ's atonement. The guys discuss Christ's substitutionary atonement, washing away sins and satisfying justice, and serves as a reminder that God doesn't deal with individuals based on their sins. Ungratefulness often stems from overlooking life's every breath as a gift from God, even trials and circumstances as opportunities for divine work.
Ephesians 2:1-5 reminds believers of their shared past state, emphasizing God's rich mercy. Pride often clouds the memory of being equally deserving of wrath. Theologian John Calvin highlights the necessity of understanding indebtedness to God's mercy for sincere worship. Pastor and theologian John Chapell notes that gratitude, rooted in mercy, motivates enduring Christian service. Examining 1 Peter 1-3 emphasizes God's abundant mercy in spiritual rebirth, inseparable from the gospel.
Reflecting on 2 Samuel 24:14, David acknowledges God's great mercy in distress, urging believers to repent and trust in God's character. To fully appreciate and extend God's mercy, acknowledgment of justified law, judgment, and wrath is vital.
The guys underscore God's greater delight in mercy over wrath. Exodus 20:19 reveals a fear of God meant to prevent sin, a fear believers must cultivate, intertwined with the mercy saving them from wrath. Magnifying God's grace requires recognizing other components like discipline, an aspect of mercy.
In conclusion, mercy's intricate interplay with grace, justice, and discipline reveals God's boundless love. Fostering a reverent fear and gratitude in response to God's mercy motivates a life aligned with His divine plan. Believers find themselves enveloped in the transformative power of God's unconditional and perfect love.

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Ep. 241 - The Lovingkindness of God Mar 12, 2024

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In a world hungering for kindness, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss Proverbs 31:26, highlighting kindness as a guiding principle for every Christian. The passage asserts that embracing the law of kindness is indispensable on the journey of faith, emphasizing that love, in its truest form, becomes action through loving-kindness.
Turning to Jeremiah 9:23-24, the guys shift to God's multifaceted nature. Delighting in exercising loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness, God invites individuals to comprehend and know Him. The passage contends that understanding God's loving-kindness is intricately tied to comprehending His divine laws.
The guys take a contemplative turn towards the magnificence of creation, underscoring the role of a discerning heart. Amidst the wonders of life, familiarity is cautioned against, as the appreciation of creation becomes a poignant reminder of God's loving-kindness. It is noted that God's common grace, symbolized by rain and sunrise, extends to both the righteous and the wicked.
Ephesians chapter 3 introduces Paul's prayer, shifting the focus to a plea for a deeper understanding of the love of Christ. Despite the clarity of God's love, Paul's prayer underscores the necessity for a profound and rich perception of God's loving-kindness. Scholars argue that the discipleship approach within the church might contribute to stagnation, where an assumed peak is reached, leading to potential crises.
The journey through Paul's prayer continues, with the guys emphasizing the aspiration for believers to be filled with the love of Christ. Love, both in thoughts and actions, emerges as the key to this fulfillment in the Christian life. The narrative encourages the imitation of this loving-kindness, advocating for simplicity in sharing gospel teachings through conversations and acts of kindness that resonate with the universal matrix among humans.
The reflection deepens with a call to consider Jonah 4:2, exploring Jonah's attempt to escape his divine task. His prayer reveals an acknowledgment of God's gracious and merciful nature, showcasing a powerful example of God's mercy. This serves as a steppingstone to the ultimate example of God's love through Christ.
In essence, the conversation urges a collective meditation on God's love during times of distress and amid the awe-inspiring spectacle of His creation. This introspection becomes the wellspring from which individuals can draw, empowering them to extend kindness to others, mirroring the divine example of loving-kindness revealed through Christ.

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Ep. 240 - Can a Christian Ever Sue Someone? Mar 07, 2024

Show notes

In their contemplation of living within a litigious society, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar recount strange lawsuits that underscore the prevailing culture of litigation. Instances like a woman suing over repossessed gas and an individual suing himself for perceived religious rights violations highlight the extremes to which litigation has escalated. Yet, amidst these anecdotes, the group turns to scripture, particularly Paul's teachings in Corinthians, to explore alternative paths for resolving disputes within a Christian framework.
The absurdity of cases becomes a backdrop for a deeper discussion on the scriptural foundation that allows for self-advocacy. Paul's strategic use of his rights as a Roman citizen becomes a case in point, emphasizing the compatibility of Christian principles with an awareness of and engagement with earthly laws.
Recognizing the divine intent behind earthly legal systems, the guys advocate for a careful approach to dispute resolution. In the early days of the church, local communities navigated conflicts through mutual understanding. The guys propose a return to this communal approach, urging individuals to tap into the resources within their immediate reach, such as community networks, elders, and pastors.
Through a biblical lens, the guys encourage prioritizing reconciliation over immediate legal recourse. Quoting from Corinthians 6:1-7, they express astonishment at Christians taking each other to court and underscore the importance of taking the higher road. This scriptural passage becomes a focal point for their discussion, emphasizing the willingness to endure material losses for the sake of spiritual gains and prompting a reevaluation of intentions behind the pursuit of justice.
The guys advocate for a humble and intentional engagement with dispute resolution within the local church. They urge individuals to examine their motives and seek counsel from diverse perspectives within the community. The guys acknowledge the complexities inherent in certain disputes. They caution against a blanket rejection of legal intervention, recognizing situations where financial ruin could loom without legal redress.
Overall, the guys emphasize the Christian principles of kindness and consideration in dispute resolution. Quoting theologian John Macarthur, they assert that settling disputes within the Christian community serves as a testimony of unity, harmony, and humility to the broader world, offering a stark contrast to the divisive nature of public court involvement.

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Ep. 239 - Are Christians Supposed to Keep the Sabbath? Feb 15, 2024

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The Sabbath, a topic often fraught with division among different Christian denominations, is deeply examined by Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar in this enlightening dialogue. At its core lies the Sabbath's anchoring within the Ten Commandments, suggesting a divine imperative for humanity to partake in rest. Notably, the absence of the customary evening and morning language on the seventh day of creation hints at a perpetual state of rest in God's presence, underscoring His desire to restore humanity to such tranquility.
An important question arises then: Why isn't Saturday designated as the day of rest? The guys discuss how the New Testament illuminates a shift in the early church's practice, aligning the Sabbath with Sunday to commemorate Christ's resurrection. This transition underscores the non-moral and ceremonial essence of the Sabbath. Crucially, the guys remind listeners that observing the Sabbath isn't about accruing divine favor but rather serves as an intentional reminder of the ultimate rest found in Christ.
The Sabbath is perceived as a divine gift, with a caution to listeners against leaning towards legalistic tendencies. Christ, the guys emphasize, stands as the quintessential source of rest, transcending mere ritualistic observances. While acknowledging Sundays as a day of rest, the discussion extends to underscore its dual significance: personal rejuvenation and the imperative of evangelism and spreading the gospel.
Acknowledging the diverse interpretations of the Sabbath, the discourse references Romans 14, emphasizing the liberty afforded to Christians and urging against judgment of those with differing views. Moreover, the discussion delves into the cyclical nature of rest, recognizing its role in staving off burnout and fostering reliance on God.
The discourse further explores the significance of rest, acknowledging the diverse ways people rejuvenate. A call for a reasoned approach to the Sabbath is advocated, warning against the perils of legalism and underscoring the divine essence of the gospel. Central to this discussion is the concept of entering God's rest, made attainable through the completed work of Christ.
The speakers encourage believers to embrace their day of rest with purpose, cultivating a rhythm of repose conducive to continued service to the Lord and others. In essence, this dialogue serves as a poignant reminder of the Sabbath's profound significance, urging believers to approach it with reverence and intentionality in their pursuit of spiritual renewal.

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Ep. 238 - How to Be an Effective Peacemaker Feb 13, 2024

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As devoted Christians, our core calling is to embody the role of peacemakers, actively cultivating harmony in relationships and advocating for reconciliation between individuals and with God. Today, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss life’s inevitable challenges that attempt to disrupt our peace, but remind listeners it is within our connection with the Lord that we discover a lasting and transcendent peace.
At the heart of a believer’s faith lies the understanding that God rescued us not merely from external threats but from the righteous wrath of God. This salvation is a holistic restoration of wholeness and harmony between the Creator and His creation. In response, Christians are called to emulate the obedient spirit of Christ. By doing so, we engage in the ministry of reconciliation, becoming participants in God’s ongoing project to bring shalom to a hurting world.
Humility becomes a vital component in navigating our human interactions. Contrary to the cultural trends that celebrate divisiveness, the guys discuss how Scripture calls believers to resist conformity and actively pursue unity. Peacemaking is not a passive endeavor; it involves courageously confronting evil with the truth. Living peaceably does not mean the sacrifice of truth; rather, it prompts us to address conflicts with a love that seeks correction and reconciliation.
Approaching conflicts in a biblically grounded manner entails seeking private resolutions rather than resorting to the public exposure prevalent on social media. Disunity undermines the credibility of the gospel and diminishes the impact of our collective witness to the world.
Lack of peace within our lives should urge Christians towards self-reflection and spiritual examination. For those who claim to be born again, yet lack the peace only found in Christ, a thorough inventory of the heart and life is needed. The absence of peace for the wicked extends to the righteous who engage in wicked actions, signaling a return to the transformative presence of God is due.
As believers, we are not merely recipients of peace but also agents tasked with promoting it. In moments of conflict, Christians are called to be mediators, actively working towards reconciliation and the restoration of shalom. God empowers us to walk in His peace and act as ambassadors of reconciliation, playing an integral role in the restoration of relationships and the establishment of shalom in our spheres of influence. Fulfilling this divine mandate, we become conduits through which God’s peace flows into the world, actively participating in the establishment of shalom in our communities and beyond.

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Ep. 237 - Ken Ham and Ray Comfort Spill the Beans Feb 08, 2024

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In today’s episode, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar are joined by Ken Ham, founder and CEO of Answers in Genesis (AIG), the Creation Museum, and the Ark Encounter. Accompanying him is Joe Boone, the president of AIG. The conversation delves into the rich history of AIG, a ministry devoted to biblical authority, the gospel, and upholding the authority of God’s Word. This ministry emphasizes the importance of believers being able to articulate and defend their faith.
Joe Boone underscores the significance of apologetics by sharing a poignant story from his teaching experience. He highlights how unanswered questions often contribute to individuals leaving the church. The conversation encourages Christians to embrace an open dialogue about their questions, acknowledging that believers shouldn’t have a blind faith but rather a reasonable faith that can withstand scrutiny.
The name “Answers in Genesis” is derived from 1 Peter 3:15, a verse that calls on Christians to always be prepared to give an answer. The ministry’s focus is on providing answers, with the realization that many of these answers are found in the book of Genesis. Genesis, specifically chapters 1-11, is considered foundational to everything, offering a worldview and essential information for building a biblical perspective.
Joe Boone reflects on a transformative moment in his life that led him to his current work with AIG when he attended a homeschool convention featuring Ken Ham as the keynote speaker. Despite a personal loss, Ken delivered a powerful talk that left a lasting impact on several attendees. Ken, in turn, shares the influence of his father on his faith, highlighting his father’s commitment to the Word. He stresses the importance of parents immersing themselves in God’s Word to set a genuine example for their children.
The conversation turns to the attractions in northern Kentucky: the Creation Museum and the Ark Encounter. The Creation Museum is described as a captivating walk through the Bible, featuring numerous exhibits that bring biblical narratives to life. The Ark Encounter, a full-size replica of Noah’s Ark, stands as the largest freestanding timber frame structure in the world. Both attractions serve as powerful evangelism tools, providing answers with an apologetics emphasis.
Listeners are encouraged to explore the Answers in Genesis website to learn more about the work happening with AIG and The Ark Encounter. The exhibits serve as impactful tools for evangelism and provide believers with an opportunity to engage with non-believing family and friends through the lens of biblical truths.

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Ep. 236 - A Glimpse of God’s Glory Feb 06, 2024

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Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar conclude their eight-episode series, “What Is the Gospel?” with today’s discussion on God’s glory.
The glory of God, much like the beauty of His holiness, is challenging to define. The guys kick off the discussion by examining how the glory of God is the manifestation of His infinite perfection through His works and attributes. The world itself was created with the primary purpose of bringing glory to God, a truth most poignantly demonstrated at the cross, where God’s glory and goodness intersect in a profound way.
God’s glory is intricately linked to His holiness. Despite the worldly perception that God is attention-seeking, the truth is that all of creation reflects His glory. The guys examine this fact in contrast to human leaders who demand glory for self-interest whereas God’s demand for glory stems from His inherent and eternal glory. The purpose of humanity, as bearers of the image of God, is to glorify Him and find ultimate joy in Him.
Glorifying God is a comprehensive endeavor which involves acknowledging and passionately exalting Him in all aspects of life. It is a continuous process of enjoying His presence and obeying His commands. Additionally, glorifying God includes displaying His works to others and embracing the gift of salvation that He freely offers. While humanity falls short of bringing perfect glory to God, we can reflect His glory to others through our lives.
Scripture promises a future glorification for believers, where they will receive glorious bodies and experience full restoration when Christ returns. This transformation includes an inward beauty of holiness, a process initiated in this life and fully realized in the future.
The importance of linking God’s glory with His holiness is consistently emphasized. The reality of God’s wrath, the impending Judgment Day, and the existence of Hell are crucial aspects that should not be overlooked. Christians are encouraged to live out these truths, sharing the gospel fervently and recognizing the brevity of life. The focal point remains on Christ, who is our hope, and the understanding that we were created not only to know God but also to make Him known.
The gospel is not merely an entry point into Christianity but an ongoing journey that beckons believers to look deeper into Scripture, perceiving the profound glory and magnificence of God. To wrap up, the guys talk about fellowship over the Word with other believers and how it allows the transformative impact of God’s truth to shape and guide our lives.

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