The Living Waters Podcast

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Ep. 43 - The Holiness of God Mar 15, 2022

Show notes

The topic for today's conversation is crucial, yet so hated by the modern church. The reluctance for pastors to preach on the holiness of God is, in part, because it is unfamiliar and taboo. We can only ever just begin to scratch the surface when it comes to Holiness. In fact, holy is the only word in the Scripture in which one word is repeated three times. The more our pastors proclaim God as holy, other, and separate, the greater the view we will have of Him. Jerry Bridges said, “Holiness describes both the majesty of God and the purity and moral perfection of His nature. It is as necessary as His existence... It is a perfection of all of God’s other attributes.” It is a misconception that someone focused on God’s holiness is harsh and uptaight, and Ray is the perfect example of this. Isaiah 43:15 says “I am the Lord, your Holy one, the Creator of Israel, your King.” D.A. Carson does a great job at helping us understand what he means by this, asking whether holiness is communicable or incommunicable. Holy is, in fact, an adjective to describe God.

Turning to the argument atheists often use in claiming God is an egomaniac for demanding us to worship Him, the guys discuss the idea that God’s glory and holiness is for our joy and good. When He calls on us to worship Him, it is all while knowing we will experience the joy which comes with knowing His glory. God’s law is a reflection of His perfection. When we break one, we break them all. Before we become a Christian, we feel relieved of our sins rather than enslaved to them. Galatians 4:8-11 states “When you did not know God, you served those which by nature are not Gods.” Finally, they touch on how the holiness of God affects their own preaching. Only God can bring us to a place of awe and wonder, so we should be careful in how we use those words. As the episode wraps up, listeners are reminded that without holiness, no one will see the Lord.

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!

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Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!

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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. 42 - The Folly of Atheism Mar 10, 2022

Show notes

The topic for today's conversation arises out of Psalm 14:1, which states that "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.'" This topic is the folly of atheism, and it is a topic that hits close to home for the guys. Ray, for one, comes across as a man obsessed with atheists. As he pointedly explains, this is because atheism is the epitome of stupidity. It is disingenuous and insane, even as it has taken on a cloak of respectability. Oscar also has a unique connection to atheism, as he is the resident former atheist in the group! He shares about his story, emphasizing what finally made things click for him: the work of the Spirit and the fervent prayers of his grandmother. He already knew the points of the gospel well before his conversion, so he didn't gain any new knowledge; rather, God opened his eyes outside of his own power! Oscar's conversion and the growth he has experienced since offer hope for listeners, offering a clear demonstration of the fact that God can and does redeem atheists, and of the fact that our prayers have an impact!

Turning to some arguments atheists often use to try to defend their view, the guys first discuss the idea that religion causes wars. This idea fails as a defense because of several points: institutional atheism has led to even worse wartime outcomes than religion, wars are contrary to Christianity, atheism leaves no ground for moral indignation over war, and atheists often contradict their anti-violence views by supporting abortion. Shifting to the reality of suffering in the world, which atheists draw on as another defense of their position, the guys consider the theological question and personal dilemma the defense involves, note that Christianity is the only way we can validate our suffering, and meditate on the significance of Jesus' own suffering in the place of sinners. There are many ways to apply reason and logic when engaging with atheists about their views, but at the end of the day, atheists need to see that the truth, beauty, and goodness we all want can only be found in Christ. They need to have their eyes opened to see God as beautiful and glorious, and they need their hearts transformed to treasure Him.

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!

Links:

Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!

Check out recommended resources: The Atheist Delusionmovie, God Doesn’t Believe in Atheists, The Atheist Test tract, and The Evidence Study Bible.

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Ep. 41 - Freedom From Condemnation: How to Walk in God’s Grace Mar 08, 2022

Show notes

After diving in with Olympic games and a chicken leg hopping competition, the group turns to the topic for today's episode: freedom from condemnation, that is, how to walk in God's grace. The guys have spoken a number of times before about the issue of false conversion, but on the other side of the coin is the problem of a true Christian laboring under a sense of condemnation and struggling with eternal security. This experience is all too common, weighing down Christians and keeping them from experiencing the freedom that is theirs in the gospel. The voice of condemnation is founded on a quid-pro-quo foundation, and aligns with the human impulse to focus on performance. Conversely, the gospel declares the grace of God in Christ, that is, His unmerited favor. And how otherly this grace is! God saves not because of our works, but simply because He decides to save. He redeems not because He sees something lovely; rather, He redeems first, and only then is something lovely created in us.

The gospel of grace must be central to the life of the Christian, and it is the antidote to condemnation. Meditating on the gospel is crucial if we are to apply it in all areas of life, including to the experience of sin and the pressures of condemnation and fear. The gospel of grace shows us that, though we will inevitably sin and struggle, Christ died for our sins and we are free - even time after time - to draw near to God in full assurance that He will draw near to us. In light of the gospel, we see that God loves us as our Father, and corrects us in love rather than punishing us in wrath. Stories of David, Jonah, the Prodigal Son, Peter, and so many more show us how God loves us and gives grace, and call us to always respond to our sin by getting up, receiving God's grace, and moving forward. Even as we pursue righteousness, we do so from a place of sure acceptance before God and celebration of His kindness to us. And ultimately, we foster humility by turning from our own sin to our gracious God; we honor God when we take Him at His word, and when we view ourselves as He views us!

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!

Links:

Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!

Check out a few recommended books: Gospel Primer, The Discipline of Grace, and God Speaks.

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Ep. 40 - The Christian’s Relationship to Media Consumption Mar 03, 2022

Show notes

On today’s episode, the guys discuss the Christian's relationship to media consumption. This is one area in which it seems a lot of Christians struggle and even sin, finding themselves hindered in growing, being effective witnesses to the gospel, and making the best use of their time. This is also an area in which the situational landscape has changed dramatically in recent years and decades. Given the advent and continual evolution of smartphones, people have an unreal level of access to media content! This fact raises concerns in relation to both access and specific content, touching on everything from matters of wise time use to navigation of pervasive content that is profane, sexually inappropriate, blasphemous, and violent.

The topic of media consumption is, in short, a discipleship issue. People are wired to be shaped and shepherded, and daily choices train our hearts to believe, know, and love certain things. Christians need to be intentional about setting our hearts and minds on the things of God, which means we must not stew in content that draws out evil desires in our hearts, such as "infotainment" that fuels a warped interest in violence. We cannot find our identity through social media, obsess over hearing new things, or allow ourselves to be desensitized to content that contains overt filth and/or trains us in an unbiblical worldview. Certainly, we can engage with secular content with a redemptive aim, but even this approach requires wisdom and care!

The unfortunate reality of our day is that the average Christian spends vastly more time with media content than the Word of God. The danger here arises from the fact that what we consume shapes and flows out of us. In order to be wise about time use, we must be aware of the "vortex" dangers of media, consider what a balanced diet of media and other things looks like, prioritize the Bible, and remember that we will give an account for the stewardship of our time. We should be intentional about planning our media consumption, knowing that to honor it as a gift from God used for our recreation or other positive ends, we must care for our souls, weigh our impact on the next generation, and ultimately - and for our joy - make our highest aim the glory of God.

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!

Links:

Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to check out Ray's devotional books!

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Ep. 39 - Satan, Demons, and Spiritual Warfare Mar 01, 2022

Show notes

On today’s episode, the guys tackle the topic of Satan, demons, spiritual warfare and more. It is a subject the world mocks, but yet the world is being mocked by Satan himself. In fact, Satan’s biggest tactic is making people doubt his existence. The problem today is that people either take the issue of spiritual warfare far too seriously or not seriously enough. Modern rationalism encourages us to forget about our spirituality. We have to look to the scriptures to understand what God meant by spiritual warfare.

Though it’s not possible for a Christian to be possessed, we certainly can be oppressed when we give in to temptations. God will correct us because he loves us. Satan’s demonic forces tempt us to sin and oppose our efforts to obey God. Demonic oppression is when a demon is temporarily victorious over a Christian, hindering his ability to serve God with a strong testimony. Confession and repentance of sin are necessary to restore fellowship with God.

We can not be ignorant of Satan’s schemes which desire to devour us. Satan is real and he is very powerful. Listen as Ray touches on some of the schemes Satan has tempted him with. He reveals that you are never as much on the front lines of warfare as you are when involved in evangelism. This can come in the form of discouragement, tiredness or random depression. You must put on your shield of faith like Jesus did. The devil tries to steal from us in evil, deceptive and sinister ways.

For the believer who truly wants to be used by God to the greatest extent, we need to start with honesty. Satan is the father of lies and God is the compass of truth, so it would do us well to be honest in every part of our lives. Similarly, help is a beautiful prayer to God. It’s important to remember that demons can’t ultimately stop people from coming to Christ. God’s word is the ultimate shield of faith and we can cleanse ourselves by reading the Word. Even if we can;t remember it word for word, the scripture continually refreshes and waters up so that we can discern truth from error. Resisting the devil and seeking the Lord is an ongoing battle.

Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider leaving us a 5-star review, and we’ll see you next time!

Links:

Visit the Living Waters website to learn more.

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Ep. 38 - The Power of Gospel Tracts Feb 24, 2022

Show notes

On today’s episode, the guys tackle the topic of gospel tracts. Listen as the guys share about the tracts they have given and received over the years. Many Christians assume handing out tracks will be a controversial act, but from the guy's experience it usually turns out to be a pleasant exchange. In fact, it could even be a life changing event for non-believers. Gospel tracts have been around long before even the printing press, and we can’t negate their effectiveness. They speak clearly and get right to the point without straying from the intended message. They never get tired or give up, and are always ready to speak directly to readers at any given time or location.

The Bible is the ultimate gospel tract which leaves nothing unsaid. Ultimately, a tract is the Bible condensed in some way. When distributing gospel tracts, we should remember that the worst thing which could happen is for people to not read them. On the contrary, the best thing which could happen could change someone's entire life. Living Waters designs tracts which are fun, joyful and lighthearted to give and receive. We need to trust that God will, in His own divine timing, use His gifts. The advantages of distributing gospel tracts don’t stop there. What’s more is the fact that every person can easily do it, a tract always sticks to its point and never loses its temper. Oftentimes, people who are too proud to be talked to will read a tract when no one is looking. A tracts always stays with a person even after the conversation has long since ended. Finally, tracts can lead people to Christ. When preaching and private talk are not available, you need to have a tract ready. A touching tract can serve as a seed of eternal life.

So, what makes a good gospel tract? Firstly, it must be engaging and able to hold the attention of readers. The main touch points include commandments, gospel, repentance, faith and resurrection. Finally, the guys offer advice for listeners in giving out gospel tracts. The guys recommend Living Waters’ tract simple tract for people who want to try handing out tracts themselves. However, there are tons of options on our website so you can find the one which best serves you.

Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider leaving us a 5-star review, and we’ll see you next time!

Links:

Visit the Living Waters website to learn more.

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Ep. 37 - Wisdom from the Word Feb 22, 2022

Show notes

On today’s episode, the guys tackle the topic of wisdom. The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. Knowledge is morals and information, while wisdom is the insight to know when vs. when not to take action. Most decisions we make in life require some knowledge, but a lot of wisdom. Our culture today is very rich in knowledge and poor in wisdom. Wisdom isn’t hidden from us, but rather hidden for us. Every human being has a conscience and the knowledge of right vs. wrong. Without God as an ultimate standard of truth, all we have are “truths”. Do away with God, and we do away with the truth.

Often, we as Christians forget our calling to vigorously pursue wisdom as proclaimed in Proverbs 2:1-6. In The Wisdom Pyramid by Brett McCracken, he maps out how to seek wisdom. Though our first instinct to learn more about something is to turn to social media, if we really want to grow in wisdom this order must be reversed. First, we should seek wisdom in the Scripture, then to our church, then nature, then books, and finally, maybe, social media. The most practical way God grants wisdom is through the Word. We can have full assurance and confidence that whatever we ask of God will be heard and responded to.

Wisdom includes the ability to use the best means, at the best time, to accomplish the best ends. It isn’t merely a matter of knowledge, but the skill of practical implication of the truth. With knowledge comes pride, but with wisdom comes humility and patience. Wise speaks not of someone who knows the facts, but of someone who is skilled in Godly living. In light of eternity, everything that we do will reverberate and echo forever. Let’s not dwell upon this, but rather learn from it and move forward. Although our names will be forgotten, the name of our Savior will live on through the test of time.

Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider leaving us a 5-star review, and we’ll see you next time!

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Ep. 36 - It's Time to Stop Fighting with Other Christians. Feb 17, 2022

Show notes

On today’s episode, the guys discuss unity and the idea that it is time to stop fighting with other Christians. Unity is extremely important and the Scripture speaks of it in very explicit terms. Paul speaks of the sensitivity we, as Christians, are to have towards believers who have different perspectives and convictions. We are to set aside anything that can be set aside in order to keep the peace among brothers.

How can we walk in love if there is no unity among us? The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are the prime examples of what unity looks like. When Adam and Eve rebelled against God, their sins brough division not only between man, but between each other. God offers us the power to become unified with him and with one another through the power of the Gospel. While there is a time and place for clarification and explanation, it is usually best to nullify conflict with others with care, humility and an apology.

As Christians, one of our biggest tools is our unity with one another. Again, the guys mention the idea of primary vs. secondary convictions and how to determine when an issue is crucial enough to advocate for. There is an undeniable part of the wicked human heart which likes to see fights between people. However, God commands us the meekness and discretion to resist this urge and advocate for unity instead. Good conflict is extremely healthy because it brings things to the forefront to be addressed. In good conflict, the rules are set ahead of time in a loving and respectful way. It’s incumbent that we consistently invite people with a welcoming spirit to be open and honest with us.

Unity is designed to unify us with Christ and with each other, then becomes an evangelistic tool to speak of the truth of God. We can’t simply be unified for unity’s sake, and should still be able to challenge each other to a certain degree. Confrontation should come from attributes of love such as patience and kindness. Speaking truth is true love.

Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider leaving us a 5-star review, and we’ll see you next time!

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Ep. 35 - Holiness Is Hugely Important Feb 15, 2022

Show notes

On today’s episode, the guys tackle the topic of holiness. While we know it is extremely important for Christians to pursue and live in holiness, it remains a word which often raises a red flag. To begin, they share the Christian definition of holiness compared to the dictionary definition. When we try to define the word in the English language, we often oversimplify its nuance. Holiness encompasses separation and morality as a communicable and incommunicable attribute. When God decides to use you, He separates you from the rest and uses you as a holy instrument with His own hand. Thus, holiness is recognizing our identity and value as instruments in God's hands to fulfill His will.

What things prevent people from going hard after God in the pursuit of holiness? Often, it’s a love of worldly pleasures, money, or praise. Holiness is the hardest attribute to fully comprehend. You are encouraged to stretch your imagination and realize fully the all encompassing holiness of God. God has given us our imagination for us to use to have a better understanding of reality. It is not something we are called upon to do to become something else, but rather something we are to do because of what we already are. It is a practical pursuit of sanctification. The Scripture calls on us to pursue holiness with others and with God.

Then, the guys contrast legalism and holiness. By definition, legalism is a weight we put upon ourselves which God never intended for us to bare. God has freely given us things to enjoy, aside from sin, in His glory. Pursuing holiness is loving the Lord and wishing to grow in His eyes. Our ultimate goal should be pleasing and glorifying God, and being set apart from the rest of the world. Practice of Godly disciplines brings about the holiness and purity of a true child of God. There are little incremental steps we can take to pursue righteousness and grow in our holiness. Finally, they share other disciplines which are helpful to bringing us closer to God, including fasting and prayer. It’s never enough to remove the sin in our life, but we must replace them with Godly desires. In closing, they offer reminders of the beauty and promise of the Gospel for those unsure if they are embodying true holiness.

Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider leaving us a 5-star review, and we’ll see you next time!

Links:

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Ep. 34 - What We’ve Been Reading in the Word Lately Feb 10, 2022

Show notes

On today’s episode, the guys discuss what they have been reading in the Word lately. Before jumping into that, Mark offers advice for having a rich devotional life. Currently, he is reading one chapter of the Bible per day alongside his wife, daughters and friends. He prefers to have devotion in the morning, to ensure meditation on the Scripture for the remainder of the day. Jesus doesn’t want to just be part of our life, but the totality of our life. He advises listeners to choose a verse from your morning scripture to meditate on for the day. The number one key when reading the Bible is simply to slow down.

The first verse discussed is 2 Corinthians 7:11, in which Paul speaks of Godly sorrow and repentance. This is a demonstration that our repentance should be as notorious as our sin. When studying God’s word, Oscar analyzes it with a magnifying glass to unpack every sentence. However, sometimes looking too closely can lead you to miss the big picture, so it’s important to find that balance. We are so prone to looking at Revelation within the frame of today’s world. However, the best way to understand Revelation is by reading the First Testament. The book should actually give us hope for God’s capabilities.

There are no bounds to the depth of God’s Word. Ray has been reading the Bible every day for 49 years and is always finding new things. Being in the Word together with someone you love connects you in ways beyond what we could imagine. If you have sin in your heart, the Word can and should make you uncomfortable. They share the quote “Seven days without the Word will make one weak.” Being together in the Word with our children brings us closer to them and ensures they have a strong foundation. When you become vulnerable and open your own heart, people around you will begin to do the same.

Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider leaving us a 5-star review, and we’ll see you next time!

Links:

Visit the Living Waters website to learn more.

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