The Living Waters Podcast

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Ep. 235 - The Resurrected Savior Feb 01, 2024

Show notes

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the linchpin of Christian faith, and today Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar explore its impact on the entire belief system of Christianity. It goes beyond theological doctrine, infusing Christianity with purpose, hope, and eternal consequences. Devoid of the resurrection, the narrative unravels, and faith is reduced to mere wishful thinking.
This event is not merely a demonstration of divine power; it symbolizes triumph over death and signifies approval of a redemptive work unparalleled in scope. Through the resurrection of Christ, Christianity stands apart from man-made religions, asserting itself as a divine revelation rather than a human invention.
Negating the claims of some that the resurrection was purely spiritual, biblical accounts emphasize the tangible nature of Jesus’ post-resurrection interactions. He eats, allows touch, and stands among disciples, challenging interpretations which favor a solely spiritual appearance. Jesus raised Himself from the dead, and the guys discuss how this underscores His divine identity. This self-resurrection distinguishes Him from other biblical instances, portraying Him as the architect of this pivotal event, asserting divine authority over death.
Witnessing the miraculous, as seen in the resurrection, doesn’t guarantee faith. The guys consider how some people saw Jesus after His resurrection, yet they didn’t follow Him. This paradox emphasizes the transformative power of the gospel, surpassing intellectual acknowledgment for a profound internal change.
Critics draw parallels between Christian narratives and elements in other religions, but shared themes don’t diminish the unique truth of the Christian gospel. They echo universal spiritual truths across cultures and histories. The guys point out that critics also claim Jesus’ body was stolen; however, Jesus’ public post-resurrection appearances challenge this idea. Disciples’ willingness to face persecution and death attests to the sincerity of their convictions.
While salvation is a spiritual work, historical evidence substantiates Christianity’s foundations. The resurrection defies dismissal as a cleverly devised tale, unfolding in real time and leaving an indelible mark on human history. Jesus is an active, victorious heavenly king. This offers hope to believers facing suffering and promises a future resurrection with glorified bodies, cementing the resurrection’s enduring impact.

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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. 234 - Clearing Up Confusion About Repentance Jan 30, 2024

Show notes

The guys are discussing a divine gift essential for salvation with a dynamic process- repentance. Turning from sin to God and emphasizing ongoing transformation, the joyous response to Christ’s redemptive work is central to today’s conversation.

Exploring the profound significance of repentance, rooted in the call of Jesus during His earthly ministry in Mark 1:15, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss its pivotal role in the transformative journey of faith. Repentance is not a mere theological concept; it is a dynamic process that involves turning away from sin and turning towards God. This shift is not about remorse but signifies a fundamental change in mindset—a recognition of God's rightful place on the throne over our lives.

The guys emphasize that repentance is a divine gift, not a self-generated effort. It requires a sincere acknowledgment of the abomination of sin in the eyes of the Lord. True repentance originates from a broken and contrite heart and bears fruit that reflects genuine transformation.

The question of whether repentance is indispensable for salvation finds a clear answer in the affirmative, particularly for those seeking a meaningful relationship with God. Repentance is not a standalone action but an inherent gift intertwined with living faith. This challenges the prevalent mindset of merely seeking decisions for Christ, emphasizing instead the importance of cultivating a repentant heart.

Preaching repentance is deemed vital, contingent upon daily practice by those conveying the message. The joy associated with repentance stems from a profound understanding of the Gospel's truths. It is not a burdensome obligation but a joyous response to the redemptive work of Christ, who bore the burdens of humanity on the cross.

Encountering the Lord in all His glory becomes a catalyst for repentance, a natural response to the overwhelming majesty and holiness. Far from being a legalistic requirement, repentance is a cleansing fountain for the soul. The notion of robbing individuals of godly grief over their sins is discouraged, as it denies them the transformative and cleansing power inherent in genuine repentance.

In essence, repentance is foundational, dynamically shaping the Christian narrative. It is not a static event but an ongoing journey—a divine gift that demands responsive obedience. Preaching repentance is essential, reflecting the joyous response to Christ's redemptive work—a cleansing fountain for the soul that offers hope, deliverance, and a genuine transformation towards God.

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Ep. 233 - True Saving Faith Jan 25, 2024

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Grace and faith, central to Christian doctrine, are vital elements of salvation. Grace, God’s unmerited favor, stands alone, and faith is the vehicle through which this divine gift is delivered. Faith signifies the end of self, trusting entirely in someone else—either oneself or Christ. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar begin today’s discussion by identifying the difference between grace and faith, focusing on what makes faith a saving faith.
Faith is the assurance of hoped-for things (Hebrews 11). It involves taking God at His word, rooted in the finished work of Christ. Abraham’s belief in God was accounted to him for righteousness, highlighting that faith is a gift from God, a work done by Him. The guys emphasize that faith is a complete trust in Christ’s finished work.
The question arises: Is faith learned, gained, or given? The guys discuss the book of Romans and how it emphasizes faith as a free gift, given without conditions. The gospel’s divine nature surpasses human comprehension, and faith is a gift bestowed by God, initiating the relationship with the spiritually dead man.
Faith and unbelief can’t exist at the same time. While Christians may face doubts, trusting in God remains essential. God’s promises are unwavering, and believers can be sure that God fulfills His word. A believer’s faith, though growing, may not move mountains, yet it pleases God.
The relationship between grace and faith is inseparable, though they are two very different things. Grace saves, and faith receives this unmerited favor. Saving faith encompasses knowledge, assurance, and conviction, transforming desires and driving a pursuit of God.
The guys compare the doctrine of faith alone to pop culture Christianity, revealing stark differences. Scripture serves as the ultimate test of truth. Traditions, sacraments, and confessions in some practices contradict faith alone, veering toward a works-based approach. Justification hinges on faith, not works, and salvation through faith leads to genuine good works. True faith produces thankfulness and zealous pursuit of good works, demonstrating a living faith.
In conclusion, grace and faith are integral to Christian theology. Grace, God’s unmerited favor, stands alone, while faith is the vehicle for receiving this divine gift. Faith involves trust in Christ’s finished work, is a complete assurance rooted in knowledge, and transforms desires. Understanding the relationship between grace and faith is crucial, emphasizing the inseparable connection and the distinctiveness of each element in the salvation narrative.

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Ep. 232 - What is Grace Really All About? Jan 23, 2024

Show notes

Grace, often confused with mercy, is an unmeasured and breathtaking favor from God, integral to Christian theology. Ray, Mark, E.Z., and Oscar recognize its transformative power, and encourage others to dare to be strong in God’s grace. Unlike human limitations, God’s grace is boundless and flows continuously. It’s an unmerited gift, with no strings attached, illustrated by the acronym “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” The Reformation emphasized salvation by grace alone, challenging the Roman Catholic Church’s teachings.
The theological concept of “grace alone” takes center stage. The reformers, led by figures like Martin Luther, introduced a paradigm shift, preaching grace alone, faith alone, to the glory of God alone. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes salvation as a gift of God, not a result of human works. The challenge lies in understanding the sufficiency of grace—a balance between lawlessness and legalism. Scripture provides clarity on living in response to God’s grace. Titus highlights grace’s transformative power, saving those once hateful. Good works become imperative, reflecting grace’s impact.
Grace, far from being a mere help, has the power to save. The guys discuss what it means to deny ungodliness and live soberly. Distinguishing the biblical view from that of a cult, Christianity offers true grace as a free gift. The rejection of grace alone stems from lies and ignorance of man’s sinful nature. God, not obligated, provides grace according to His nature.
Why does grace alone make the gospel good news? It eliminates guesswork, anchoring Christians in God’s finished work. Christians find assurance solely in God’s grace, alleviating the fear of hell. Salvation, not law-dependence, finds assurance in Jesus who fulfilled the law.
The guys discuss what it means for people to reject the teaching of grace alone. Law, wrath, and justice are served. Denying grace means presenting filthy works, reproaching Christ’s sacrifice. Everything, including God’s abounding grace, is recognized as a gift from the Lord, leaving no room for boasting.
In a life governed by the law, fear prevails. Conversely, a life ruled by grace declares that everything needed is accomplished. Grace liberates from societal expectations, providing a foundation for righteous living. In conclusion, grace is an unmeasured favor integral to Christian theology. Emphasizing grace alone affirms its sufficiency, making the gospel good news. Grace liberates believers, providing assurance and acknowledgment that everything for salvation is accomplished.

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Ep. 231 - A Close Look at Jesus of Nazareth Jan 18, 2024

Show notes

Join Ray, Mark, E.Z., and Oscar on their exploration of Jesus of Nazareth, emphasizing the inseparable connection between theology and worship. The incarnation, as expounded in John 1, emerges as a pivotal concept, symbolizing Jesus' profound act of taking on human flesh. This transformative event is not confined to the New Testament but extends seamlessly from the Old Testament, weaving a coherent narrative of divine purpose. Dispelling misconceptions about Jesus being only a historical figure, the guys elevate the understanding of Jesus as both a personal Lord and Savior and the eternal Christ who transcends time.
Highlighting the importance of terms like incarnation and the Trinity, despite their absence in Scripture, becomes a crucial aspect of theological clarity. They clearly describe the nature of Jesus as the flawless mediator between God and humanity. The subsequent exploration of passive and active obedience delves into the intricacies of Christ's redemptive work, shedding light on the inseparable connection between His sacrificial death and righteous life.
Imputation is expounded upon as a profound concept, depicting the transformative exchange of Adam's inherited sin for the full righteousness of Christ through divine grace. The guys also discuss propitiation and its role as a substitute for redemption and a choice between facing divine wrath or accepting Jesus' sacrifice. The advocacy of Jesus during times of human frailty and sin is highlighted, emphasizing the cleansing power of His sacrificial blood.
Christ's comprehensive suffering is portrayed as a vital aspect of divine justice, culminating in the triumphant declaration, "It is finished." The beauty of the gospel, intricately tied to Jesus' suffering, is presented as the transformative force that brings an end to human suffering. The resurrection is positioned as the defining moment, setting Jesus apart from historical figures, with its impact on the redemptive narrative.
The ascension, signaling the completion of Jesus' earthly ministry and the commencement of His role as high priest, adds another layer to the theological tapestry. This act of physical ascension solidifies Jesus' kingship, ongoing intercession, and preparation of a celestial abode for believers, underscoring the eternal significance of His work.
In conclusion, the guys reflect on Jesus as the ultimate Savior and Redeemer, beckoning believers into a close and intimate relationship. This discussion unfolds the divine narrative, emphasizing Jesus' purposeful life and redemptive mission.

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Ep. 230 - The Fall of Man Jan 16, 2024

Show notes

The Genesis narrative unfolds with the creation of the universe through God's commanding voice, juxtaposed with the intimate crafting of Adam. The introduction of the serpent and the subsequent fall of Adam and Eve mark humanity's transition from bliss to hardship. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar unravel the profound concept of being created in God's image and how it defines our uniqueness, portraying minuscule individuals bearing God's relational, volitional, intellectual, creative, and moral characteristics.
Amidst societal claims that reduce people to mere apes, Scripture asserts our uniqueness, emphasizing God's personal touch in our creation. Despite this apparent greatness, the comparison to God humbles us. Adam, the first man, was designed for a relationship with God, but his disobedience marred the image-bearing connection, transmitting a sinful nature to all descendants. While humanity remains image bearers, the Fall necessitates bridging the gap between mankind and God.
The guys tackle the tricky topic of depravity, and touch on how it manifests as humanity's complete infection by sin, rendering us incapable of inherently good deeds. Man's good acts, without faith, are likened to filthy rags. Despite the possibility of moral actions, our core is sinful, emphasizing the need for redemption. Genesis 6 illustrates humanity's deepening depravity, echoed throughout the Bible.
Sin, an outflow of man’s fallen state, is revealed through God's moral standards, acting as a mirror reflecting our true nature. Our violation of God's nature, as image bearers, underlines the depravity of man. The guys discuss how realizing our own sin amplifies God's mercy and love, highlighting the connection between our fallen nature and divine grace.
Culture suggests self-discovery by stripping away what we think we know about ourselves. Christianity, however, contends that the removal of sin requires looking to the Lord rather than inward. Sin is difficult to detect within oneself, but the Law provides an objective view of our own nature. As believers, having Jesus as a guide and protector is a privilege which is often overlooked.
Salvation transforms individuals into new creatures, instigating a shift in affections and aversions. Christians, once in love with sinful pursuits, now embrace the fruit of the Spirit—a visible outcome of God's transformative work. Despite never seeing or hearing God directly, love for Him stems from His initial love. The indescribable gift of redemption and transformation underscores the profound nature of salvation.

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Ep. 229 - Who Is God? Jan 11, 2024

Show notes

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar kick off an eight-episode series, “What Is the Gospel?” with today’s discussion of the fundamental question of “Who Is God?”
The guys start off by differentiating between the questions “Who is God?" and “What is God?” and emphasizing the personal attributes of the Lord. Doing so, the hosts warn against impersonal conversations that can lead to idolatry. The awe-inspiring nature of God, the Creator of the universe, is highlighted, urging believers to discard their idols.
Understanding God as the Alpha and Omega, a title which denotes His all-inclusive, eternal nature, helps bridge the finite understanding of humans with the infinite nature of God. The importance of the Trinity in the gospel is underscored, with caution against using analogies that may lead to heresy. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct yet constitute one God, a truth derived systematically from scripture.
The revelatory nature of God is discussed, emphasizing the Bible as a means of divine revelation. God reveals Himself in nature, through His people, and ultimately in Jesus Christ. Amid a truth crisis, God is portrayed as the ultimate Truth Teller. Distinguishing between communicable and incommunicable attributes of God, the guys note that some attributes, like love and goodness, are shared with humans but not to the same degree. Jealousy, a communicable attribute, is explained as God's rightful demand for praise.
The importance of details in understanding God is stressed, citing the fear of the Lord as a deterrent from evil. In evangelism, knowing who God is becomes crucial, as the wrong understanding can distort the gospel. Representing the true and living God ensures an accurate portrayal of the gospel message, encouraging believers to intimately know and make God known.
Embark on a captivating journey with Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar as they attempt to unravel the profound nature of God and His Word. This riveting discussion closes with a fervent call for believers to intimately know and accurately represent the true and living God. Tune in for an episode that promises enlightenment, depth, and a profound connection with the Creator.

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Ep. 228 - How to Fight Off Discouragement Jan 09, 2024

Show notes

In today’s episode, Pastor Philip De Courcy joins Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar in an engaging discussion that guides listeners through the often crippling discouragement that naturally plagues Christians in a fallen world. Pastor Philip is the senior pastor at Kindred Community Church and speaker on the program Know The Truth. Drawing insights from biblical characters and church history, Pastor Phillip and the guys explore three fronts on which we battle discouragement: the world, the devil, and the flesh. The real challenge lies in preventing specific discouragement from seeping into our souls, and the importance of relying on the means of grace to find encouragement.
Ray shares a personal perspective on how prideful thoughts and discouragement can lead him to humility at the cross. While the devil tempts believers to abandon courage, God calls us to persevere, reminding us that we are here to glorify Him. The discussion highlights the powerful story of Peter, who casts all his cares upon Jesus, exemplifying trust amidst discouragement.
Practical advice is also given on maintaining physical health, emphasizing the connection between body and soul. The guys emphasize the significance of a good night's sleep, nourishing food, and filling our souls with things that turn our minds to eternity.
Discouragement is viewed as a diagnostic tool, prompting reflection on the lies we believe that contribute to a disheartened spirit. The importance of continually meditating on God's Word and countering the enemy's lies is underscored. Ray recounts his own moments of discouragement in ministry and how a steadfast focus on the Lord enables resilience in the face of storms. The concept of making our days count in light of our mortality is explored, urging listeners to persevere until God brings a season of renewal.
The doctrine of Jesus' return is presented as a powerful antidote to discouragement, encouraging Christians to live with the anticipation of eternal life. The more we know God, the more He makes sense to us, and worshiping Him in chaos requires an understanding that God does not need our wise counsel. Join the guys on this transformative journey through faith, resilience, and the promise of eternal life.
Know the Truth Podcast: Spotify | Apple
Psalms of Trust – Study Guide

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Ep. 226 - Uprooting “Christless Conservatism” Jan 02, 2024

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Today the guys dive into the intricate interplay between faith, politics, and controversial issues. Special guest John Root, a bold Christian voice in the world of media, brings his unique perspective to the table during the G3 Conference, discussing the challenges of maintaining faith in the tumultuous landscape of modern politics.
One of the significant issues grappled with in today’s discussion is the concept of idolatry and its undeniable connection to the political landscape today. This is a delicate balance for many Christians, as individuals may prioritize certain policies over their Christian beliefs, leading to an idolatry issue.
The alarming trend of biblical illiteracy among the younger generations is another concern. Lack of biblical knowledge can lead to confusion about what is good and evil, causing young people to align with a “lesser evil” for the sake of perceived eternal good. As Christians, it is essential to stand firm in our faith, prioritize God's Word above all else, and reach the lost with the gospel.
The guys’ conversation with John prompts listeners to stand for the truth, even when it's against those on “our own side”—a lesson gleaned from Daniel in the Old Testament. Through Daniel’s story, Christians can observe that the decision of how to fight is not decided in the battle itself but is determined by the preparation beforehand. John also shares his own experiences surrounding the controversy stirred up by the Christian series, The Chosen's handling of LGBTQ+ issues and interactions with conservative media figures.
The guys also tackle the compromise and misdirection that can occur when conservatism is packaged in a godly wrapping. Many individuals are so politicized that they feel conservatism will save this country, but this is a view which is eternally empty. While it is widely understood that liberalism is godless, we must also realize that conservatism can create an illusion of righteousness, which is often false as well.
Christians must remember that this world is not our home, and we should not assimilate to the world's values. Instead, believers should always strive to show love and respect for others, while at the same time standing firm in our faith and refusing to compromise on biblical truth. The key takeaway from this discussion is the importance of having a biblical worldview and the courage to challenge idolatry where it is found while maintaining a loving and respectful approach to all.

This episode was recorded at G3 2023 National Conference.

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Ep. 225 - How Christians Can Cultivate Courage and Boldness in a Cowardly Age Dec 28, 2023

Show notes

Get ready for a riveting exploration of a Christian’s soldier-like journey, delicately balancing faith, food, and modern challenges. The guys are joined by Phil Johnson, the director of Grace to You and elder at Grace Community Church, to observe the portrayal of Christians as soldiers in scripture and discuss spiritual warfare against Satan and his false ideologies. It's a war, not against people, but against satanic strongholds, with the aim to liberate people from these lies.
To begin the discussion, Phil shares the profound influence of John MacArthur on his own faith journey and the courage required in the modern church. With anecdotes and personal observations, the guys remind listeners that standing firm in biblical truth often leads to unexpected places.
In an era where evangelism is often diluted to be more palatable, Phil emphasizes the importance of defending the truth and sharing the gospel. The role of courage and boldness in evangelism is highlighted, as is the importance of tearing down ideological strongholds to liberate people from lies. Mark Spence shares how Phil has challenged and helped him and Living Waters to grow, and Phil also expresses appreciation for the efforts of Ray Comfort and Living Waters’ bold approach to sharing the gospel.
The cyclical nature of church history is examined, underscoring the importance of remaining faithful to God's will, even if it means being part of the faithful remnant rather than the easygoing majority. The significance of gathering as God's people during the pandemic is discussed, as well as the importance of face-to-face fellowship in the church.
Lastly, the conversation steers towards the impact of John MacArthur's teachings on small church communities and the role of grandparents in supporting their children in today's challenging times. A sneak peek is provided into MacArthur's upcoming book, The War on Children, addressing the challenges of raising children in a culture that targets and confuses them. Book recommendations are also shared, including Holiness by J.C. Ryle as well as sermons of Charles Spurgeon, providing listeners with ample food for thought.
In essence, this podcast episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the Christian’s journey, skillfully intertwining elements of faith, food, and modern challenges. It provides an enlightening perspective that balances the heaviness of faith with the lightness of human connection, ensuring an engaging and thought-provoking listen.
This episode was recorded at G3 2023 National Conference.

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