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The official faith and life podcast for the discipleship resources at pursueGOD.org. Great for families, small groups, and one-on-one mentoring. New sermonlink topics every Friday.
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The official faith and life podcast for the discipleship resources at pursueGOD.org. Great for families, small groups, and one-on-one mentoring. New sermonlink topics every Friday.
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271 епізодів

#Religion #Christianity #Podcasting Education #Self-Improvement #PursueGOD #Bryan Dwyer

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Gospel Freedom vs. Religious Control (Galatians 2) - Unveiling Mormonism 31:25

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In this episode, we dive into Galatians chapter 2 and uncover a powerful message about freedom in Christ —a freedom threatened by religious rules, even in the early church. Paul recounts his face-to-face confrontation with Peter over hypocrisy, challenges the idea of adding requirements to the gospel, and defends salvation by grace alone. For Latter-day Saints, this chapter raises important questions: Do we need religious leaders to validate our message from God? Are modern commandments—like the Word of Wisdom—spiritually necessary? What does it really mean to be “justified by faith”? 📖 Key Scriptures: Galatians 2:4-5 – “They wanted to enslave us… but we refused to give in.” Galatians 2:6 – “They added nothing to me.” Galatians 2:11 – Paul opposes Peter to his face Galatians 2:16 – “We are made right with God by faith in Jesus Christ, not by obeying the law.” Galatians 2:21 – “If keeping the law could make us right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die.” 🔍 Main Takeaways: Paul's Gospel Didn’t Come from Church Leaders : He didn’t need Peter’s approval—and neither do you need a prophet to affirm what Christ has already revealed. Religious Rules Can Undermine Grace : Just like Jewish food laws, modern LDS regulations can create barriers to true fellowship. The Word of Wisdom Parallel : Paul would not have endorsed any rule that divided believers or suggested that Christ’s work was incomplete. Justification Is Not Earned : We are declared righteous by faith—not after all we can do, but because of what Christ already did. 💬 Questions to Ponder or Discuss: What “modern regulations” might be adding pressure to your faith? Do you relate more to Paul’s gospel of grace—or to Peter’s moment of religious compromise? How would your relationship with God change if you truly believed that Jesus finished the work ? 📣 Join the Challenge: This is Part 2 of the Galatians Challenge for Mormons . Read Galatians 2 this week. Pray honestly. Ask hard questions. The true gospel is worth fighting for—just like Paul did. 👉 Subscribe to follow the full series and share it with someone who’s ready to rethink religion. -- The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now --…
 
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The Gospel vs. The Empire (1 Thessalonians 1:5-10) 25:18

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Welcome back! In today's episode, we explore how the early Christians in Thessalonica dared to proclaim a different kind of “good news”—one that directly challenged the power and propaganda of the Roman Empire. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- The Gospel vs. The Empire: Why Jesus, Not Caesar, Is the Real Good News Setting the Stage: A Young Church in a Pagan City The Apostle Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians is one of his earliest writings, addressed to a young and courageous church in the city of Thessalonica. Located in Macedonia, this city was a thriving cultural center in the Roman Empire. It was full of competing loyalties: Civic Assemblies that promoted public allegiance to Roman rule Jewish communities rooted in Old Testament tradition Pagan mystery cults that worshiped local gods like Cabirus and Dionysus Imperial cults that demanded loyalty to Caesar, who was honored as “Lord” and “Savior” This cultural mixture made Thessalonica a spiritual and political battleground. It was in this context that Paul boldly preached a new message—one that didn’t fit into any existing category. Caesar and the Counterfeit Gospel To understand the revolutionary nature of Paul’s gospel, we need to grasp how the Roman Empire presented its rulers. Julius Caesar (100–44 BC) was a military genius and political reformer. After his assassination, the Roman Senate declared him divine— Divus Julius . His adopted son, Caesar Augustus , used that claim to establish himself as the “Son of God.” He was also called “Savior” and “Lord” , and he was praised for bringing peace to the empire—the Pax Romana . In 9 BC , an inscription from Priene declared Augustus’s birthday “the beginning of the good news (euangelion)” for the world. This was the Roman Empire’s version of the gospel: salvation through the emperor, peace through power, and a kingdom built by human might. It was political propaganda wrapped in divine language. Paul’s Radical Message: The True Gospel In direct contrast, Paul brought a different kind of good news to Thessalonica. “For when we brought you the Good News, it was not only with words but also with power, for the Holy Spirit gave you full assurance that what we said was true…” — 1 Thessalonians 1:5 (NLT) This message centered on Jesus—not Caesar—as the true Son of God , the real Savior , and the eternal King . Paul wasn’t just preaching theology; he was making a political and spiritual declaration. His message was: Not about the birth of Augustus, but the death and resurrection of Jesus (Acts 17:3) Not about human rule, but about the kingdom of God Not about Rome’s peace, but about peace with God through Christ A Church That Chose a New Allegiance The Thessalonian believers responded with joy—even though it brought suffering. “So you received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought you.” — 1 Thessalonians 1:6 (NLT) Their conversion was radical. They turned away from idols , including allegiance to Caesar, and began to serve the living and true God (1 Thessalonians 1:9). This wasn’t a mild change—it was a total shift in identity. According to scholars, they didn’t mix Jesus into their old beliefs; they abandoned the old system entirely. Their faith became contagious. Paul says that their testimony rang out across Macedonia and Achaia. Others heard not just about their beliefs, but about how they lived and suffered for their allegiance to Christ. A New Calendar, a New Kingdom Paul finishes this section with a bold statement: “And they speak of how you are looking forward to the coming of God’s Son from heaven—Jesus, whom God raised from the dead. He is the one who has rescued us from the terrors of the coming judgment.” — 1 Thessalonians 1:10 (NLT) While Rome proclaimed the emperor as savior, Paul declared that Jesus is the one who will rescue us . While Roman decrees tried to reshape time around Augustus’s birth, Christians later reshaped the global calendar to mark the birth of Jesus : AD (Anno Domini) = “In the year of our Lord” BC = “Before Christ” Even in secular culture today, though terms like BCE (Before Common Era) and CE (Common Era) are used, they still trace back to the same pivotal event: the birth of Jesus . The Takeaway: Only One King Can Make Things Right From Caesar Augustus to modern politicians, the world keeps looking for someone to fix everything—someone who can restore order, bring peace, and heal division. But no emperor, president, policy, or celebrity can do what Jesus has already done. Jesus brings peace with God , not just peace in society Jesus reigns eternally , not just temporarily Jesus, not Caesar, is the true Son of God and Savior of the world So if you’re asking today, “Who’s going to make things right?” —just look at the calendar. History itself testifies to the answer. Jesus is Lord. And He’s coming again.…
 
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The Gospel According to Paul (Galatians 1) - Unveiling Mormonism 37:54

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In this kickoff episode of the Galatians Challenge for Mormons , we dive into chapter 1 of Paul’s letter to the Galatians—a bold defense of the one true gospel. Paul says even if an angel preaches another message, let him be cursed. Sound familiar? We explore the striking parallels between Paul’s warning and Joseph Smith’s claims about receiving the “fullness of the gospel” from the angel Moroni. We also examine Paul’s background as a Pharisee, how the early church responded to his conversion, and why that response stands in stark contrast to Joseph Smith’s rejection of all existing churches. This episode challenges listeners to consider: Are you following the gospel revealed by Jesus—or a different one? 📖 Bible Text: Galatians 1 📚 LDS References: Joseph Smith—History 1:19; Moroni’s message (1838 account) 🔍 Key Questions: What does Paul say about authority and grace? How should we respond to “new” gospels, even from angels? Why did the early church praise God for Paul—but Joseph Smith denounced them? ✅ Perfect for: LDS truth-seekers, former Mormons, and anyone wanting to understand the unchanging gospel of grace. 🔗 Learn more: PursueGOD.org/galatians-mormons -- The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Welcome to Galatians Challenge for Mormons —a Bible study series for Latter-day Saints who are ready to explore the message of grace straight from Scripture. In this first lesson, we dive into Galatians chapter 1 and confront a question that rocked the early church... and still matters today: “What is the true gospel?” Galatians 1:1 (NLT) This letter is from Paul, an apostle. I was not appointed by any group of people or any human authority, but by Jesus Christ himself and by God the Father, who raised Jesus from the dead. Paul wastes no time making something clear—his message isn’t secondhand, and it didn’t come from church leaders or tradition. It came straight from Jesus Christ. 🧠 Evangelical View: True spiritual authority comes from God’s direct calling—not priesthood succession or church offices. Paul's authority didn’t come from Peter or James—it came from Christ alone. 👀 Mormon Viewpoint: The LDS Church teaches that priesthood authority was lost and restored through Joseph Smith. But Paul says his authority didn't come through men at all—challenging the idea that authority must be passed through earthly hands. 🔍 Challenge Question: If Paul wasn’t ordained by men, what does that say about the necessity of priesthood succession for gospel authority today? Galatians 1:2-5 (NLT) 2 All the brothers and sisters here join me in sending this letter to the churches of Galatia.3 May God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. 4 Jesus gave his life for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live. 5 All glory to God forever and ever! Amen. There’s the gospel in simple terms! It’s all about Jesus Galatians 1:6-7 (NLT) 6 I am shocked that you are turning away so soon from God, who called you to himself through the loving mercy of Christ. You are following a different way that pretends to be the Good News 7 but is not the Good News at all. You are being fooled by those who deliberately twist the truth concerning Christ. Context: Judaizers The earliest Christians were Jews. Jesus was Jewish. The apostles were Jewish. And in the beginning, the movement was seen as a sect within Judaism . But then Gentiles started coming to faith—and that’s when things got messy. Some Jewish Christians believed that faith in Jesus was not enough. They insisted Gentiles had to become culturally Jewish too—especially by being circumcised and keeping dietary laws and Sabbath observance (see Acts 15:1, Galatians 2:3-5). These were the Judaizers. They weren’t outsiders. They were part of the early church—but they were promoting a hybrid gospel: Jesus as the Messiah, yes, but only for those who also accepted the yoke of Moses. This tension reached a boiling point in Acts 15—the Jerusalem Council. Acts 15:1 (NLT) 1 While Paul and Barnabas were at Antioch of Syria, some men from Judea arrived and began to teach the believers: “Unless you are circumcised as required by the law of Moses, you cannot be saved.” The apostles debated: Do Gentiles have to become Jews to follow Jesus? And the answer was a firm no. Peter said: “Why are you now challenging God by burdening the Gentile believers with a yoke that neither we nor our ancestors were able to bear?” (Acts 15:10) Paul's letters, especially Galatians and parts of Romans and Philippians, go on the offensive against this distorted gospel. To Paul, the Judaizers weren’t just slightly off—they were undermining salvation itself. Paul warns the Galatians that a new, “improved” gospel is actually no gospel at all. Even if an angel from heaven preached it—it should be rejected. ⚖️ Evangelical View: The gospel is about grace—salvation by faith in Christ alone. Adding works, laws, or ordinances twists the good news into something dangerous. 📜 Mormon Application: Joseph Smith claimed to restore the gospel through an angel (Moroni), including new ordinances and covenants. But Paul says even angels can't change the gospel of grace. 📣 “Let him be accursed!” —Paul doesn’t mince words about altering the gospel. 🔍 Challenge Question: If someone brings a gospel that adds temple rituals or priesthood ordinances to faith in Jesus—how does Paul say we should respond? Galatians 1:8-9 (NLT) 8 Let God’s curse fall on anyone, including us or even an angel from heaven, who preaches a different kind of Good News than the one we preached to you. 9 I say again what we have said before: If anyone preaches any other Good News than the one you welcomed, let that person be cursed. Galatians 1:10-12 (NLT) 10 Obviously, I’m not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ’s servant. 11 Dear brothers and sisters, I want you to understand that the gospel message I preach is not based on mere human reasoning. 12 I received my message from no human source, and no one taught me. Instead, I received it by direct revelation from Jesus Christ. Interesting: this was Joseph Smith’s claim as well! Here’s the difference: Paul’s revelation aligned with Existing scripture Existing structure (apostles) More on this in chapter 2 Joseph Smith’s revelation went against Existing scripture Existing structure (churches) Joseph Smith’s revelations changed the gospel over time—first emphasizing the Book of Mormon, then expanding into temple rites and eternal progression. Paul, on the other hand, stuck with one gospel from the very beginning. 🔍 Challenge Question: Is your gospel rooted in a changing tradition—or in the unchanging revelation of Jesus Christ? Paul finishes the chapter by bearing his testimony: Galatians 1:13-24 (NLT) 13 You know what I was like when I followed the Jewish religion—how I violently persecuted God’s church. I did my best to destroy it. 14 I was far ahead of my fellow Jews in my zeal for the traditions of my ancestors. Paul, formerly known as Saul of Tarsus, was a highly trained Pharisee before his conversion to Christianity. He was born into a Jewish family and was a Roman citizen by birth. Paul studied under the famous rabbi Gamaliel in Jerusalem (Acts 22:3), which means he was thoroughly educated in the Hebrew Scriptures and the traditions of the Pharisees—one of the most strict and devout Jewish sects. As a Pharisee, Paul was zealous for the law and deeply committed to maintaining Jewish purity and tradition. He described himself in Philippians 3:5-6 as: "Circumcised the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless." His zeal led him to become a fierce persecutor of early Christians, believing them to be heretics. But after a dramatic encounter with the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9), Paul’s life was radically transformed. He went from persecutor to preacher—turning his deep knowledge of the Law into a powerful foundation for proclaiming the gospel of grace. 15 But even before I was born, God chose me and called me by his marvelous grace. Then it pleased him 16 to reveal his Son to me so that I would proclaim the Good News about Jesus to the Gentiles. Notice: grace Paul is not about Paul anymore. He’s all about Jesus. When this happened, I did not rush out to consult with any human being. 17 Nor did I go up to Jerusalem to consult with those who were apostles before I was. Instead, I went away into Arabia, and later I returned to the city of Damascus. 18 Then three years later I went to Jerusalem to get to know Peter, and I stayed with him for fifteen days. 19 The only other apostle I met at that time was James, the Lord’s brother. 20 I declare before God that what I am writing to you is not a lie. Again, revelation directly from Jesus. But: Paul was willing to submit to existing leadership This is amazing to me!! 21 After that visit I went north into the provinces of Syria and Cilicia. 22 And still the churches in Christ that are in Judea didn’t know me personally. 23 All they knew was that people were saying, “The one who used to persecute us is now preaching the very faith he tried to destroy!” 24 And they praised God because of me. ✅ Biblical Pattern: Paul didn’t oppose or replace the existing church—he joined it. His message matched theirs, and his conversion encouraged them. 🚫 LDS Contrast: Joseph Smith, on the other hand, claimed that all existing churches were wrong. In his 1838 First Vision account, he said: “I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong... their creeds were an abomination in his sight.” ( Joseph Smith—History 1:19 ) 📣 Key Difference: Paul was embraced by the church because his gospel aligned with theirs. Joseph Smith rejected all churches, claiming they had fallen away and needed restoring. 🔍 Challenge Question: When someone claims to preach the true gospel—do they unite with the body of Christ, or declare all others to be false?…
 
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A New Tribe (1 Thessalonians 1:1-4) 31:40

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Welcome back to the pod! In our new series, we'll explore two of the earliest letters in the New Testament—written by the Apostle Paul to a young church facing pressure, persecution, and cultural confusion. Tune in as we unpack the first few verses of Thessalonians. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- A New Identity in Christ: Kicking Off the Thessalonians Series Today we launch a powerful new series on the letters to the Thessalonians. These two short New Testament books—1 and 2 Thessalonians—were written to one of the earliest churches planted by the Apostle Paul. Before jumping into the rich theology and encouragement in these letters, it’s helpful to explore the background: Who was Paul writing to? Why did he write? And how can these ancient letters speak directly to us today? Understanding the Timeline of Paul’s Letters Before diving into 1 Thessalonians, let’s take a quick detour through the New Testament table of contents. The Apostle Paul wrote 13 letters (or epistles), and they weren't written in the order they appear in your Bible. Understanding their timeline helps us grasp the historical and spiritual context of each one. 1 Thessalonians was written around AD 50, making it one of Paul’s earliest writings—possibly his second after Galatians. Here’s a simplified overview of Paul’s epistles in chronological order: Galatians (AD 48) – After Paul’s first missionary journey 1 Thessalonians (AD 50) – Written from Corinth after Timothy’s encouraging report 2 Thessalonians (AD 51) – Soon after 1 Thessalonians to clarify teaching on Christ’s return 1 & 2 Corinthians (AD 55–56) – To address division and reconciliation Romans (AD 57) – A theological masterpiece written before a trip to Jerusalem Prison Epistles (AD 60) – Philippians, Colossians, Philemon, Ephesians from Rome Pastoral Epistles (AD 63–67) – 1 Timothy, Titus, and finally 2 Timothy before Paul’s death The City of Thessalonica and the Church’s Birth Paul planted the church in Thessalonica during his second missionary journey (see Acts 17 ). But his time there was brief. After just three weeks of preaching in the synagogue, persecution forced Paul and his team to flee the city. This sudden departure left the young church without strong leadership during a time of growing hostility. Later, while Paul was in Corinth (see Acts 18 ), he sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to check in. Timothy’s report was encouraging, so Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians to strengthen, teach, and affirm the faith of these new believers. Importantly, this letter was written before any of the four Gospels had been completed. The early church relied on the oral tradition of eyewitnesses to Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. It wasn’t until decades later, as those eyewitnesses began to pass away, that the written Gospels were compiled (see Luke 1:1–4 ). Competing “Tribes” in Ancient Thessalonica Paul’s opening words to the church are deeply theological and culturally subversive: “We are writing to the church in Thessalonica, to you who belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 1:1 NLT) That word “church” in Greek is ekklesia , and in the Greco-Roman world, it didn’t originally mean a religious group. It referred to a political or civic assembly—like a town hall meeting. Thessalonica had many such groups: Civic Assemblies – Free male citizens met to vote on laws and policies, aligned with Rome’s authority. Pagan Mystery Cults – Groups worshiped deities like Cabirus (a local messianic figure) and Dionysus (god of wine and ecstasy), often through secret rituals. Imperial Assemblies – Citizens gathered to declare loyalty to Caesar, who was worshiped as “lord” and “savior.” Jewish Synagogues – Paul first preached here, and some Jews and God-fearing Greeks joined the Christian faith. (See Acts 17:2–4 .) In this context, Paul redefined ekklesia to mean a new kind of people—not gathered around a king or philosophy, but around Jesus Christ as Lord . A New Kind of Tribe: God’s People Paul’s main point in 1 Thessalonians 1 is that the believers now have a new identity: “You belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 1:1 NLT) Their former “tribes” no longer define them. They now belong to God’s people—those who have responded to the gospel through faith. Paul continues: “We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work , your loving deeds , and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 1:2–3 NLT) This “trifecta” of faith, love, and hope becomes a recurring theme in Paul’s writing. In 1 Corinthians 13:13 , he calls these the three things that last forever. Who Gets the Credit? Finally, Paul reminds them of one crucial truth: “We know, dear brothers and sisters, that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own people.” (1 Thessalonians 1:4 NLT) This verse introduces the concept of being “chosen”—a powerful biblical idea that Paul expands later, especially in Romans. For now, the message is clear: God gets all the credit for our salvation. We didn’t earn our way into God’s tribe. He brought us in because of His love. So What? Identity Matters In today’s world, people still form tribes—political, cultural, ideological. But Paul’s message remains: Your primary identity must be in Christ . If you’ve trusted Jesus, then you belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ above all. That identity should shape your views on politics, sexuality, family, money, and everything else. And for those still considering, the invitation is open: God loves you. He has made a way for you to belong to His eternal tribe.…
 
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How The Church Works 29:04

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Welcome back to the podcast! In this episode, we're wrapping up our series, "How Stuff Works", with a topic that has many different opinions on it in today's culture: the Church. The Bible is clear on this, though, and today we'll see what is has to say! -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- How the Church Works Big Idea: God designed his Church to involve his people in key purposes that bring about his plans in this world. No other organization on earth compares to the Church. It’s not simply a building or a weekend service. It’s the living body of Christ, chosen and designed by God to carry out his mission in the world. From the very beginning, Jesus made it clear that he would build his Church—and not even the powers of hell could stop it. (Matthew 16:18) Let’s unpack how the Church works by looking at four core truths from Scripture. 1. There Is One True Church When Jesus spoke of “my church” in Matthew 16:18, he wasn’t referring to a specific building or religious organization. The Greek word for church is ekklesia , meaning “the called-out ones”—a gathering of people summoned for a purpose. The Church Jesus established is the community of all true believers in Jesus throughout history. This is sometimes called the “Universal Church.” It’s important to understand that the Universal Church transcends denominations, traditions, and geographic locations. No single church or association can claim to be “the one true Church.” The true Church consists of everyone who has placed their faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. The Bible uses powerful imagery to help us understand the nature of the Church: The Bride of Christ (Revelation 19:7) reflects the intimate and loving relationship between Jesus and his people. A Spiritual Family and Nation (Ephesians 2:19) shows how believers belong to one household, united under God’s rule. A Temple and a House (Ephesians 2:20-21) describes how we are being built together as a dwelling place for God’s Spirit. 2. Jesus Is the Head of His Church Colossians 1:18 makes it clear: Christ is the head of the Church, which is his body. This means Jesus himself is in charge. He leads through the truth of the Bible, by the power of the Holy Spirit, and through biblically qualified leaders like elders and pastors. Jesus guides the Church like a shepherd leads his flock. In 1 Peter 5:1-4, elders are instructed to care for God’s people with humility and a servant’s heart, always pointing back to the Chief Shepherd—Jesus. While the Universal Church is invisible and eternal, it takes visible form through local churches . These are the communities where believers gather for worship, teaching, fellowship, and mission. Though no single local church represents the entirety of the Universal Church, each one is a part of the larger body of Christ, carrying out God’s purposes in their unique context. 3. The Church Is a Community The Church is more than just an organization—it’s a living organism. 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 describes it as a human body with many parts, each necessary and interconnected. Regardless of background—Jew or Gentile, slave or free—we’ve all been baptized into one body by the same Spirit. The early church demonstrated this vibrant community in Acts 2:42. They were devoted to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship ( koinonia ), to meals, and to prayer. The word koinonia carries the idea of sharing life deeply—meeting needs, eating together, and worshiping as a unified family. This kind of biblical community stands in stark contrast to the individualism of our culture. The Church is a place where people of every race, status, and story can belong because of our shared identity in Christ. 4. The Church Ministers in Three Spheres God has given the Church three primary purposes, expressed through three ministry areas: A. Ministry to God: Worship Romans 12:1 calls us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices—our spiritual act of worship. Worship isn’t just about music; it’s about honoring God with every part of our lives. Everything the Church does—from teaching to singing to prayer—is ultimately directed to God as an act of praise. B. Ministry to the World: Evangelism and Mercy Jesus commanded his followers to be witnesses to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). The Church exists to proclaim the gospel to the lost and to demonstrate God’s compassion through acts of mercy. Whether it's feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, or advocating for justice, the Church reflects God’s character when it serves the world. Deuteronomy 15:10 reminds us that generosity honors God and brings his blessing. C. Ministry to Believers: Discipleship The Church is also called to help believers grow into spiritual maturity. Jesus’ Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) is a clear mandate to make disciples, teaching them to obey everything he commanded. In the early church, this happened through the Word, fellowship, and shared life. Today, it happens through mentoring, teaching, small groups, youth ministry, and more. Final Challenge There is nothing like the local church when it’s working right. It’s beautiful. It’s powerful. It’s God’s chosen tool to bring hope to the world. So get involved. Worship faithfully. Serve others. Invest in the next generation. Join in God’s mission to the world. Be the Church.…
 
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Fathers and Daughters: Fighting the Lies of the Enemy - The Men's Podcast 25:17

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Welcome back men! Today we discuss, as fathers, what it means to help our daughters fight the lies of the enemy - lies that the world feeds them daily. -- The PursueGOD Men's podcast helps guys apply God's Word to their lives to become full circle followers of Jesus. Join us for a new men's episode every other Thursday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/men . Learn more about "full circle" Christianity through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources with men and boys at church. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Fathers and Daughters: Fighting the Lies of the Enemy In today’s culture, our daughters face countless lies about identity, beauty, purpose, and purity. As fathers, we play a vital role in shielding them from these attacks and pointing them toward God’s truth. This episode is a call to action for dads who want to raise daughters grounded in biblical wisdom. We’ll look at four common cultural lies and explore what the Bible says instead. Lie #1: Gender Doesn’t Matter Truth: Men and women are both created in the image of God—and their differences are part of His beautiful design. Our culture is increasingly blurring the distinctions between male and female, but Genesis 1 shows us something better. God created humanity “male and female,” and He called it “very good.” (Genesis 1:27,31) Genesis 1:27 (NLT) – “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:31 (NLT) – “Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good!” As fathers, we should affirm and celebrate the unique design of our daughters. Teach them that their femininity is not a limitation but a God-given strength. When we embrace the beauty of gender differences, we reflect God’s plan for flourishing families and communities. Lie #2: Outward Beauty Is What Matters Most Truth: Real beauty grows from within and never fades. Today’s young women are bombarded with unrealistic beauty standards. Social media filters, influencer culture, and cosmetic trends send the message that their worth is tied to appearance. But the Bible tells us something very different. Proverbs 31:30-31 (NLT) – “Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the Lord will be greatly praised. Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.” 1 Peter 3:3-4 (NLT) – “Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.” Dads, it’s great to tell your daughter she’s beautiful—but don’t stop there. Compliment her kindness, her compassion, her integrity. Encourage her spiritual growth and help her see that true beauty increases as she draws closer to Christ. Lie #3: A Woman’s Role Is Either Limited or Guilt-Ridden Truth: God calls women to a wide range of roles—including motherhood and work—and each one is valuable. The culture may downplay stay-at-home moms, while some churches may inadvertently shame women who work outside the home. Both extremes are unbiblical. Proverbs 31 gives us a picture of a strong, capable woman who manages a household and engages in meaningful work. Proverbs 31:10-31 describes a “wife of noble character” who runs a business, cares for her family, and blesses her community. Our daughters need to know that both homemaking and career aspirations can honor God when pursued with the right heart. It’s not about one-size-fits-all roles—it’s about walking in God’s purpose with courage and faith. Lie #4: Sexual Freedom Equals Real Freedom Truth: God’s boundaries for sexuality lead to freedom, not bondage. Culture promotes the idea that casual sex and provocative behavior are empowering. But Scripture says otherwise. Song of Songs warns us not to awaken love before the proper time. Song of Songs 8:4 (NLT) – “Promise me, O women of Jerusalem, not to awaken love until the time is right.” God’s design for sex is good and powerful, but it must be handled with care. When we step outside His boundaries, we invite emotional pain, broken trust, and lasting regret. Fathers should affirm God’s sexual ethic with gentleness and clarity—pointing their daughters to a better, more fulfilling path. You don’t have to get into the details of the “sex talk” if that’s not your role, but you can certainly reinforce God’s purpose for purity. Remind your daughter that she is valuable, worthy of respect, and not defined by cultural norms. Proverbs 30:20 (NLT) – “An adulterous woman consumes a man, then wipes her mouth and says, ‘What’s wrong with that?’” Let’s teach our daughters that purity is not about shame—it’s about walking in freedom and grace. Final Word to Fathers: Be Her Protector and Truth-Teller We’re called to more than just physical protection. We are the spiritual gatekeepers for our daughters—guarding their hearts and minds from the lies of the enemy. That means paying attention to what influences them, having regular conversations about faith and identity, and being the voice that consistently speaks truth and love. She needs to know her worth from you before the world tries to define it for her.…
 
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Aleck’s Story: Not Just Deconstructing - Unveiling Mormonism 51:23

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In this episode, Aleck shares her story of coming out of Mormonism and experiencing a real relationship with Jesus. -- The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now --…
 
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How the Bible Works 34:48

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Welcome back to the pod! Have you ever wondered how the Bible was written, and how exactly it's structured? Listen to today's episode as we talk about those things, as well as unpacking why it matter to us spiritually. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- How the Bible Works Today we continue our How Stuff Works series with a topic that’s both deeply theological and intensely practical: How the Bible Works . For Christians, the Bible is more than just a religious book—it’s the inspired Word of God. But where did it come from? How is it structured? And how do we read it in a way that transforms our lives? These are big questions, and this summary explores three essential truths that come from our Bible Basics series: 1. Where Did We Get the Bible? The Bible didn’t fall from the sky, nor was it just a random collection of human wisdom. Scripture teaches that the Bible was inspired by the Holy Spirit. 2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT) “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” “Inspired” literally means “God-breathed.” That means the words of the Bible carry the very breath of God, and He speaks to us through its pages. Mark 12:36 (NLT) “For David himself, speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, said…” Jesus affirmed the divine origin of the Old Testament scriptures. The human authors wrote using their own style and voice, but were guided by the Spirit of God. 2 Peter 1:20-21 (NLT) “No prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet’s own understanding... those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God.” Verbal plenary inspiration means that the very words (verbal) and all parts (plenary) of Scripture are inspired by God. Though the original manuscripts were written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, God has preserved His message through faithful transmission and translation. Translation Types: Word-for-Word (Formal): ESV, NASB Thought-for-Thought (Dynamic): NIV, NLT While only the original manuscripts are infallible, modern translations are trustworthy because of careful preservation, thousands of manuscripts, and the sovereignty of God. 2. What Is the Structure of the Bible? The Bible is one book made up of 66 individual books , divided into two testaments: Old Testament (39 Books): Written over 1,000 years and originally part of the Hebrew Bible, it includes: Law (Genesis–Deuteronomy) History (Joshua–Esther) Wisdom/Poetry (Job–Song of Songs) Prophets (Isaiah–Malachi) New Testament (27 Books): Written within a generation after Jesus' resurrection, it includes: Gospels (Matthew–John) History (Acts) Letters/Epistles (Romans–Jude) Apocalypse (Revelation) Matthew 5:17-19 (NLT) “I did not come to abolish the law... but to accomplish their purpose.” Jesus didn’t reject the Old Testament—He fulfilled it. The New Testament reveals how God’s promises culminate in Jesus. 3. How Do I Read the Bible? The Bible is not just for study—it’s for transformation. We recommend starting with the Gospel of John and reading through the New Testament one book at a time. Read it like this: Start with John, then continue through the rest of the NT Mix in a gospel (Matthew, Mark, or Luke) every few epistles Repeat the NT before jumping into the OT Joshua 1:8 (ESV) “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth… meditate on it day and night… then you will have good success.” Romans 12:2 (NLT) “Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” As you read, remember that the Holy Spirit not only inspired the Bible—He also illuminates it today. He helps us understand and apply it to our lives. The goal isn’t just to gain knowledge—it’s to be transformed by the truth.…
 
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Kids and Lying - The Family Podcast 20:16

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In this episode, Tracy unpacks practical ways to help your kids tell the truth—showing how honesty builds trust, honors God, and shapes godly character. -- The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Teaching Kids to Tell the Truth Lying is making an untrue statement with the intent to deceive and gain some advantage. As parents, it’s crucial to address this issue from a spiritual perspective because lying is part of our sin nature (Romans 3:23). The Bible mentions lying between 155-180 times, depending on the translation, highlighting its significance in God’s eyes. Why Do Kids Lie? Children lie for various reasons, including: To meet a need – They want something, like a cookie on the counter, and lying seems like an easy way to get it. To avoid trouble – They fear consequences, like breaking something and blaming a sibling. For attention – They exaggerate or fabricate stories to impress others. God’s Perspective on Lying Lying started at the beginning of time. In Genesis 3 , Adam and Eve tried to deceive God by hiding after they sinned. This shows that dishonesty is deeply ingrained in human nature. God takes lying seriously, and so should we as parents. The Bible explicitly warns against it: Leviticus 19:11 – "Do not steal. Do not deceive or cheat one another." Proverbs 6:16-19 – "There are six things that the Lord hates… a lying tongue, a false witness who breathes out lies..." One of the 10 commandments “not to bear false witness” Lying damages relationships, erodes trust, and goes against God’s nature. As parents, our goal is to train our children to value truthfulness and recognize the long-term consequences of dishonesty. How to Train Kids to Be Honest 1. Model Truthfulness Children learn by example. If they see parents lying—whether about small things like “I’m not home” when avoiding a call or exaggerating stories—they will assume dishonesty is acceptable. 2. Create a Safe Environment for Honesty Encourage open conversations where your child feels safe to tell the truth without immediate harsh consequences. Family discussions and Bible-based resources help cultivate this environment. 3. Explain How Lying Hurts Others Help children understand that lying damages relationships: Breaks trust – When someone lies, others find it difficult to rely on them. Hurts feelings – Lies can cause emotional pain to family and friends. Makes life uncertain – Example: If parents didn’t follow through on picking up their child from school, it would create insecurity. 4. Be Gracious But Clear Don’t overreact when a child confesses. Instead, affirm their honesty while addressing the wrongdoing. Deliver appropriate consequences without anger, explaining that lost trust leads to fewer freedoms. Remind them that honesty is the pathway to greater trust and privileges. 5. Celebrate Honesty Recognize and reward truthful behavior. When your child tells the truth in a difficult situation, acknowledge their courage and reinforce that honesty honors God. John 14:16 – Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Colossians 3:9 – "Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices." Ephesians 4:25 – "Put away falsehood, and speak truthfully to your neighbor." By intentionally guiding our children to embrace honesty, we help them develop character that reflects God’s truth and love.…
 
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How Eternity Works 33:31

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Welcome back to the podcast! Join us today as we talk about eternity. Eternity is not just a vague spiritual concept—it’s a concrete reality taught throughout Scripture. Everyone will spend eternity somewhere, and the Bible gives us a clear roadmap to understand what happens after we die. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- How Eternity Works: A Biblical Breakdown of the Afterlife Eternity is not a vague hope—it’s a concrete reality. Every human being will live forever in one of two places, and the Bible tells us everything we need to know about what happens after we die. Let’s walk through what Scripture reveals about the nature of the afterlife, judgment, and how to prepare for the day we take our final breath. Understanding the Biblical Concept of the Afterlife 1. Sheol and Hades: The Temporary Realm of the Dead In the Old Testament, Sheol is described as the “realm of the dead”—a shadowy place where both the righteous and unrighteous awaited judgment. In Greek, the word used is Hades . Jesus gives us a vivid picture of this realm in Luke 16:19-31 , telling the story of a rich man in torment and a poor man named Lazarus resting in “Abraham’s bosom.” “Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to sit beside Abraham at the heavenly banquet. The rich man also died and was buried, and he went to the place of the dead.” (Luke 16:22-23 NLT) This story reveals three key features of Sheol: A place of torment for the unrighteous A place of comfort for the righteous A great chasm separating the two, uncrossable after death (Luke 16:26) Peter refers to another compartment— Tartarus —a gloomy prison for fallen angels awaiting judgment (2 Peter 2:4). This concept shows the complexity of the pre-resurrection afterlife. 2. Jesus Changes Everything: The Cross and the Empty Tomb After His death, Jesus didn’t just remain in the grave—He descended to the realm of the dead. He told the thief on the cross, “Today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43) Peter writes that Jesus “preached to the spirits in prison” (1 Peter 3:19), and Paul echoes that Jesus “led a crowd of captives” to Heaven (Ephesians 4:8). Paradise was emptied and relocated—those who had died in faith now dwell directly in God’s presence. “We are... willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8) Today, believers go straight to be with Jesus. Hades remains only as a place of waiting for the unrighteous dead. 3. Gehenna: The Final Destination of Judgment The term Gehenna —used frequently by Jesus—refers to the Valley of Hinnom, a site associated with child sacrifice and later used as a garbage-burning pit. Jesus used it to describe final judgment. “Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28 NLT) Jesus also spoke of “outer darkness” where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 8:12). This isn’t a metaphorical inconvenience—it’s eternal separation from the presence of God. In the end, Hades itself is thrown into the lake of fire —what Revelation calls the “second death” (Revelation 20:14-15). This is the final judgment for all who rejected Christ. What the Bible Says About Judgment and Salvation “Each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment.” (Hebrews 9:27) There are no second chances after death. No reincarnation. No purgatory. No spirit-world missionaries offering a postmortem gospel. We all fall short of God’s standard (Romans 3:23). Unrepentant sinners, those who reject Christ, and even the self-righteous will face the same end—eternal separation from God. “They will be punished with eternal destruction, forever separated from the Lord and from his glorious power.” (2 Thessalonians 1:9) The Good News: Jesus Came to Rescue Us But judgment isn’t the end of the story. Galatians 1:4 says that Jesus “gave his life for our sins… to rescue us from this evil world.” He lived a sinless life, died in our place, and rose again to defeat death. “God... freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.” (Romans 3:24 NLT) How to Be Ready for Eternity “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9) Salvation is a gift offered to all, but it must be received by faith. The one question that determines your eternal destiny is this: Did you trust in Jesus? Those who believe will enter eternal life with God. Those who reject Him will face judgment. The choice is yours. What Will Heaven Be Like? Heaven isn’t floating in the clouds—it’s a renewed creation , rich in beauty, community, and the full presence of God. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes… All these things are gone forever.” (Revelation 21:4 NLT) In this new heaven and earth, we’ll enjoy perfect fellowship, unbroken relationships, and life as it was meant to be. Most importantly, God will dwell with us. “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people.” (Revelation 21:3 NLT) Eternity is real. Are you ready for it?…
 
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Raising Daughters - The Men's Podcast 26:00

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Welcome back, men! This episode kicks off a two-part series, starting with daughters and followed by a focus on sons. If you’re a dad of girls, whether young or grown, these principles will help you reflect God’s heart and guide your daughter with wisdom. -- The PursueGOD Men's podcast helps guys apply God's Word to their lives to become full circle followers of Jesus. Join us for a new men's episode every other Thursday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/men . Learn more about "full circle" Christianity through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources with men and boys at church. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Raising Daughters: A Father’s Role in Shaping Her Identity and Faith Being a father to a daughter is both a gift and a calling. In a culture that often blurs gender roles and redefines family dynamics, dads have the opportunity—and responsibility—to model biblical love, identity, and leadership. 1. Love Her Mom Well One of the most important ways a father can influence his daughter is through the way he loves her mother. Whether you're married to her mom or co-parenting after divorce, your behavior sets a powerful tone in her life. The Bible calls men to love their wives sacrificially, the way Christ loves the Church: Ephesians 5:25-29 (NLT) “For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her… Husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies. For a man who loves his wife actually shows love for himself.” This kind of love is not based on feelings—it’s based on commitment, humility, and servant leadership. When your daughter sees you lay down your preferences to honor and serve her mom, she internalizes what to expect from a future husband. She learns to value healthy love and recognize unhealthy behavior. Even if you’re a single dad, you can still live out this principle. Show respect for your daughter’s mother. Avoid speaking negatively about her, especially in front of your daughter. Be honest when appropriate, but always take the high road. God can redeem even the most broken family dynamics when you commit to modeling grace and truth. 1 Peter 3:7 (NLT) adds another layer: “In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding… She is your equal partner in God’s gift of new life.” Treating your wife—or your daughter’s mom—with honor is one of the greatest gifts you can give your daughter. 2. Speak Her Love Language Every child is wired to receive love differently, and girls especially need consistent, heartfelt affirmation from their fathers. Author Gary Chapman outlines five “love languages” that help decode how people give and receive love: words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, gifts, and physical touch. Your daughter likely leans into one or two of these. Your job is to learn what speaks most clearly to her heart and make it a regular part of your relationship. Words of Affirmation – Tell her what you love about who she is, not just what she does. Be mindful of criticism—it cuts deeper in daughters who thrive on verbal encouragement. Quality Time – Let her choose the activity. The goal is not what you do together, but that you're fully present. Acts of Service – Sometimes love looks like helping with a science project or fixing something she values. Gifts – Thoughtful, not flashy. It’s about meaning, not money. Physical Touch – Hugs, high-fives, or sitting close on the couch. Appropriate affection from you can affirm her value and reduce the likelihood that she’ll seek it in the wrong places. Proverbs 16:16 (NLT) says, “How much better to get wisdom than gold, and good judgment than silver.” Wisdom in parenting means understanding your daughter’s emotional needs and responding intentionally. 3. Stay in Your Lane As a father, you have a critical role—but not a complete one. You’re not called to be everything to your daughter. There are certain conversations better handled by your wife or a trusted, godly woman. Titus 2:4-5 (NLT) says, “These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure...” Topics like puberty, sexual purity, and physical development are often more comfortably and effectively addressed by a woman. This doesn’t mean you avoid important subjects altogether—it means you walk with humility and invite others to speak into her life where needed. If you’re a single dad, lean into the church community. Find a trusted woman your daughter can talk to and feel safe with. Additionally, you must remember that your daughter’s ultimate identity comes from God, not you. You were never meant to meet all her emotional or spiritual needs Genesis 1:27 (NLT) reminds us: “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” Fathers are called to guide, protect, and bless—but only God can fill her soul. Your job is to point her to Him. Final Thoughts: A Gentle and Quiet Spirit In a world obsessed with external beauty, dads have the opportunity to affirm the kind of beauty God values most. 1 Peter 3:3-4 (NLT) says, “Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty... You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.” You can shape how your daughter views herself by the way you treat her and talk to her. Speak life. Model grace. Point her to the God who made her, loves her, and has a plan for her life. Being a dad to a daughter may feel overwhelming, but God will equip you if you seek Him daily. Start by loving your wife (or co-parent) well, knowing your daughter’s heart, and staying faithful in your lane. God will use your imperfect efforts to do something eternal in her life.…
 
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How Healthy Families Work 41:33

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Tune into the podcast today for a special Mother's Day edition of our How Stuff Works series, as we explore how exactly a healthy family works! -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- How Healthy Families Work (Mother’s Day Message) Series: How Stuff Works | Message Theme: Biblical Family Health Overview: Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate, honor, and reflect. But it also surfaces a truth we all need to acknowledge: there are no perfect families. The Bible is full of flawed family dynamics—jealousy, rivalry, favoritism, rebellion—and yet, God still worked through those families to accomplish His purposes. This message explores how even in our mess, God calls us toward something better: the pursuit of a healthy family. Not perfect—healthy. This Mother’s Day message outlines three biblical traits that characterize healthy families. These traits are not reserved for "ideal" households but are accessible to any family that’s willing to trust God, lean into His Word, and do the work. Dysfunction in the Bible: You’re Not Alone Before we dive into healthy family traits, it’s important to recognize that dysfunction is nothing new. The Bible gives us raw and honest pictures of broken family systems: Adam & Eve’s family : Jealousy led to murder (Genesis 4). Cain couldn’t handle being overshadowed by his brother Abel. Isaac & Rebekah’s family : Favoritism and deception led to betrayal (Genesis 27). Jacob and Esau’s rivalry split their household. David & Bathsheba’s family : Lust and abuse of power caused trauma, loss, and rebellion (2 Samuel 11-15). Zebedee’s family (James & John): Even Jesus' disciples struggled with ambition and pride (Mark 10:35-37; Luke 9:54). These examples remind us that family pain is part of the human experience. But they also reveal that God works with broken people to tell a story of redemption. Trait #1: Families Who Are Jesus-Centered Healthy families don’t center around trends—they center around truth. That truth is Jesus. Why it matters: Every family is centered on something—money, sports, school, success, or even the family itself. When Jesus is the center, God’s Word becomes the foundation , and the Holy Spirit empowers the people in the family to grow and serve. What it looks like: Time : Prioritizing church, small groups, and faith-based community. Finances : Giving generously, and including kids in those conversations. Atmosphere : Creating a culture of worship, spiritual conversation, and daily discipleship at home. Key Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (NLT) – “Repeat [these commands] again and again to your children… Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road…” Trait #2: Husbands and Wives Who Choose Love The health of a family often hinges on the strength of the marriage. What culture says: Love is a feeling that fades over time. What God says: Love is a covenant and a choice. What it looks like: Choosing each other daily, even when emotions run dry. Showing affection openly—kids notice this! Modeling sacrificial love that mirrors Christ’s love for the Church. Key Scripture: Ephesians 5:25-26 (NLT) – “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her…” Trait #3: Dads and Moms Who Transfer Ownership Healthy parenting is about preparation, not perfection. The goal is to gradually transfer responsibility to your kids. Three parenting styles: Controlling parents : Never let go of decisions. Uninvolved parents : Don’t care enough to stay engaged. Healthy parents : Coach and guide while gradually releasing control. What it looks like: Teaching kids to manage time, money, relationships, and faith. Letting them fail safely so they can learn. Moving from discipline to dialogue as they mature. Key Scripture: Proverbs 22:6 (ESV) – “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Conclusion: Embrace the Mess and Trust God There are no perfect families. But there are Jesus-centered families. There are love-choosing couples. There are parent-coaches who raise their kids with vision. Whether you’re a mom, dad, grandparent, or mentor—you can be part of creating a healthy family. It doesn’t happen by default. It happens by design. And it starts with a decision: to let God lead your home. Challenge for the Week: Pick one of the three traits and work on it this week. Maybe that’s inviting Jesus more clearly into your family rhythms. Or choosing love when it’s easier to walk away. Or letting go just a little more as your kids grow. Healthy families don’t happen overnight—but they can happen one choice at a time.…
 
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Dealing With Toxic People - The Family Podcast 22:01

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In this episode, Tracy discusses how to recognize toxic people, protect your peace, and set healthy boundaries—just like Jesus did. You'll learn when it's time to speak truth in love, when to step back, and how to navigate difficult relationships with wisdom and grace. This episode is based on the based on the book by Gary Chapman When to Walk Away. -- The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Understanding and Dealing with Toxic People (New Topic) A toxic person is someone who consistently exhibits harmful behaviors, whether through manipulation, control, emotional damage, or fostering negativity. They create unhealthy environments, draining the energy and peace of those around them. As Christians, we are called to navigate relationships with wisdom and discernment, ensuring that we guard our hearts while maintaining a Christ-like attitude. Signs of a Toxic Person Recognizing toxic behavior is the first step to protecting yourself from its effects. Here are some common traits of a toxic person: They thrive on conflict (Manipulator). Rather than seeking peace, they enjoy stirring division and fueling drama. They scapegoat and blame others. As Dr. M. Scott Peck explains, toxic individuals refuse to acknowledge fault, instead attacking others to preserve their self-image. They manipulate for attention. Toxic people use neediness, guilt, and even aggression to monopolize your time, energy, and emotions. Questions to Ask Yourself If you suspect someone in your life may be toxic, ask yourself these questions: Do my interactions with them leave me drained and emotionally exhausted? Does my relationship with them steal my peace, joy, and hope? Are they interfering with my ability to cultivate other healthy relationships? Do I feel manipulated, minimized, or controlled by them? Do they seem to thrive in anger, malice, slander, or deceit? How Should I Deal with a Toxic Person? Navigating relationships with toxic individuals requires wisdom, boundaries, and a commitment to biblical truth. Here’s how you can respond: Label the bad behavior. Recognizing toxicity allows you to set new boundaries. Honoring someone doesn’t mean pretending they are something they are not. Speak the truth. Be honest, but if they refuse to receive it, stop trying. Jesus modeled this when he let people walk away (Matthew 19:16-26). Avoid gossip and unnecessary defense. If someone misrepresents you, respond calmly: “I’m sorry you feel that way.” Guard your heart by setting boundaries. Proverbs 26:4-5 reminds us to handle fools wisely—sometimes by not engaging. Limit your time with them. Say no to unreasonable requests and unnecessary interactions. Pray for them. Even toxic people need God’s grace, but that doesn’t mean you should allow them to harm you. Spend time with the right people who love and encourage you. Avoid rash judgment. Address real issues but don’t let past hurts lead you to label someone unfairly. Toxic people must be called out for their actions, but we must be careful not to fall into the same trap of destructive behavior ourselves. Instead, we should seek God’s wisdom and set healthy boundaries while keeping our own hearts aligned with His truth. What if the toxic person is my spouse? Pray for God to change their heart. Pray for God to keep your heart tender and patient. (story in book about husband focusing on Gospel) Draw appropriate boundaries for safety and sanity (might mean separation) Seek professional counseling Find Christian community to bolster you. For kids, you can’t rescue them from bad decisions. God who could doesn’t even control us What did Jesus model for us? Matthew 19, the Rich young ruler came to prove his own righteousness and Jesus challenged him to sell his possessions. The young man walked away sad because he loved his stuff more than Jesus. Jesus let him walk away. He didn’t chase him down or try to soften the message. . Jesus retreated several times for prayer and quiet. He drew boundaries and didn’t let people demand things from Him he didn’t want to give. In Luke 4, Jesus returns to his hometown and teaches in the synagogue. The people didn’t like his message and demanded he leave and He did. John 13, Jesus let Judas stay at the table and even washed his feet but he also called him out.…
 
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How Toxic People Work 37:13

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Welcome back to the podcast! Today we're getting a little more personal in our "How Stuff Works" series. Tune in! -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- How Toxic People Work: Understanding the Inner Life of a Toxic Person Today’s topic hits close to home for many people. Toxic people aren’t just “difficult personalities.” According to the Bible, their behavior often stems from deep spiritual dysfunction. In this installment of our “How Stuff Works” series, we examine what really drives toxic people and how we can respond biblically and wisely. We’re looking at the tragic life of King Saul, Israel’s first king. At first, Saul appeared to be a promising leader—anointed by God, popular with the people, and empowered to lead. But his story quickly derailed due to unchecked insecurity, spiritual rebellion, and destructive behaviors that poisoned his relationships and led to his downfall. Through Saul’s life, we uncover four key truths about how toxic people work. This study will help you understand toxic patterns, identify red flags, and—most importantly—learn how to respond like David did: with grace, boundaries, and wisdom. 1. Toxic People Are Driven by Insecurity Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 18:6-9 (NLT) When David rose to fame after defeating Goliath, Saul’s jealousy ignited. Rather than celebrating David’s success, Saul saw him as a threat. “They credit David with ten thousands and me with only thousands. Next they’ll be making him their king!” – Saul (1 Samuel 18:8) This response reveals a deep insecurity—a fear of being replaced, overshadowed, or exposed. Toxic people often present as confident or successful, but beneath the surface is a fragile identity rooted in comparison and fear. Spiritual Insight: True security comes from knowing you are made in the image of God. Without that, people seek worth through achievements, control, or praise. Saul had no mentor to guide him toward that deeper security—and it cost him everything. 2. Toxic People Are Used by the Enemy Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 19:9-10 (NLT), Romans 1:28, 1 Timothy 1:19-20 After rejecting God's authority, Saul became vulnerable to spiritual torment. The Bible says “a tormenting spirit from the LORD” came upon him—a judgment, not cruelty. God gave Saul over to his rebellion, just as Romans 1 warns. Toxic behavior can be a form of spiritual warfare. Satan works through envy, rage, deceit, and division—the very qualities that defined Saul’s descent. He went from throwing spears to throwing accusations and lies. Common toxic traits tied to this: Manipulative Controlling Judgmental Blaming others Contrast this with the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23): love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. 3. Toxic People Believe Their Own Lies Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 22:7-8 (NLT), John 8:44 Toxic people often live in a narrative that justifies their behavior. Saul painted himself as the victim and accused David and even his own son Jonathan of betrayal—fabricating a conspiracy that didn’t exist. Jesus said that Satan is “the father of lies” (John 8:44), and those influenced by him will twist the truth to suit their agenda. Toxic people gaslight, manipulate, and blame to maintain control and justify their actions. This form of dishonesty becomes part of their identity—they no longer distinguish between truth and deception. 4. Toxic People Ultimately Destroy Themselves Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 31:1-6 (NLT) The final chapter of Saul’s life is devastating. After years of paranoia, violence, and spiritual rebellion, he dies in battle, taking his sons and companions with him. The toxic fallout of his life affected everyone close to him. “So Saul, his three sons, his armor bearer, and his troops all died together that same day.” – 1 Samuel 31:6 Unchecked toxicity isn’t just relational—it’s self-destructive. And it leaves collateral damage in its wake. Responding to Toxic People: Lessons from David David, the target of Saul’s toxicity, offers us a model of how to deal with these kinds of relationships. A. Don’t Take Revenge Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 26:23-24, Romans 12:18 David had multiple opportunities to kill Saul, but he refused. He trusted God to deal with Saul in His own time. Toxic people provoke us to react—but revenge only fuels the cycle. “I refused to kill you even when the LORD placed you in my power… May the LORD value my life, even as I have valued yours today.” – David (1 Samuel 26:24) B. Learn to Walk Away Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 19:10, 1 Samuel 27:1, 2 Timothy 4:14-15 David didn’t try to fix Saul. He set a boundary. He walked away. For nine chapters of 1 Samuel, David is on the run, choosing safety and sanity over confrontation. “The best thing I can do is escape to the Philistines… and I will finally be safe.” – David (1 Samuel 27:1) This wasn’t weakness. It was wisdom. Sometimes the most Christlike thing you can do is walk away. Even Jesus did it—with the Pharisees, with toxic crowds, with unrepentant people. Final Encouragement Not every difficult person is toxic. But when you recognize the patterns, don’t try to fix, please, or control them. That’s not your job. Let God handle them, and focus on keeping your heart pure. If someone in your life fits this profile, pray for wisdom. Set boundaries. Trust God. And remember David’s example: don’t become toxic in the process of dealing with toxicity.…
 
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Brigham's Story: How God Found Me Before I Found the Truth - Unveiling Mormonism 31:50

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In this episode, Brigham shares how God broke through and led him to real faith in Jesus — even before he knew all the problems with Mormonism. His story shows how God meets us right where we are and keeps pulling us closer. -- The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Notes…
 
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How the Trinity Works | Understanding God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit 23:26

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How can God be three and one at the same time? In this episode of our How Stuff Works series, we explore the mystery of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Using real-world discoveries like Copernicus’ heliocentric model and the outdated belief in bloodletting, we show how truth isn’t something we invent—it’s something we uncover. Just like scientists observed the universe and aligned their beliefs with reality, we can observe Scripture and align our faith with how God has revealed Himself. The Trinity isn’t a contradiction—it’s a deep truth waiting to be understood. 🔍 Join us as we explore how the Trinity works—and why it matters for your faith today. 📺 Watch the full How Stuff Works series for more! -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now --…
 
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Talking to Kids About Death and Grief - The Family Podcast 26:43

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Tracy discusses best practices for helping children process grief, including modeling healthy mourning, engaging in age-appropriate conversations, and offering comfort through the promise of Heaven. -- The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now --…
 
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Is It OK for Christians to Live Together before Marriage? 8:43

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Cohabitation before marriage is the new normal in today’s culture. But what does God actually say about living together before tying the knot? In this video, we’ll unpack what the Bible teaches about sexual sin, premarital sex, and how your choices today shape your future marriage. 🔥 Discover: • What the Greek word porneia really means • Why premarital sex IS forbidden in Scripture • How cohabitation impacts trust and future faithfulness • The key principle of love being a choice, not just a feeling 📖 Featuring verses from Hebrews, 1 Thessalonians, 1 Corinthians, and more—this video calls couples to honor God before they say “I do.” ✅ Whether you’re dating, engaged, or mentoring someone who is—this is a must-watch conversation on purity, commitment, and biblical love. 🗣️ Join the conversation in the comments: Do you think it’s okay for Christians to live together before marriage? #ChristianDating #BiblicalRelationships #Cohabitation #PurityCulture #MarriagePrep #FaithfulLiving #PursueGOD -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now --…
 
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How the Resurrection Works 20:24

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Welcome back to the podcast! The resurrection of Jesus isn’t just a historical fact—it’s a present-day power source. In this kickoff to our How Stuff Works series, we’re unpacking Ephesians 1:18-20 to explore how the resurrection gives us confident hope, a new identity, and daily strength through the Holy Spirit. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- How the Resurrection Works Welcome to Easter and the kickoff to our new series: How Stuff Works . Today, we're not just celebrating a historical event—we’re discovering how the resurrection of Jesus works in real life. The empty tomb isn’t just a symbol of the past; it’s a source of power for today. We’re unpacking Ephesians 1:18-20 to explore how the resurrection gives us: Confident hope for today and eternity A new identity as God’s prized possession Daily power through the Holy Spirit So, how does the resurrection work? It transforms how you live right now—not just how you feel about death. Ephesians 1:18-20 (NLT) I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance. I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead… 1. The Resurrection Gives Us Confident Hope We live in a world short on hope. But the resurrection proves that death isn’t the end. Our hope isn’t wishful thinking—it’s the deep assurance that God will fulfill His promises. Temporal hope anchors us during hard times. Philippians 4:13 reminds us that we can endure anything through Christ. Eternal hope assures us that death is not the end. 1 Corinthians 15:19 says that if our hope is only for this life, we are to be pitied. 2. The Resurrection Makes Us God’s Inheritance Ephesians 1 says that we are God’s glorious inheritance. That’s a radical shift! You’re not just saved—you’re treasured. Before: we were dead in sin and “objects of wrath” (Ephesians 2:1-3) After: we are God’s masterpiece, created anew for His purposes (Ephesians 2:10) Jesus didn’t rise just to create a holiday. He rose to claim what’s His: you . 3. The Resurrection Empowers Us for Everyday Living That same power that raised Jesus from the dead is now available to every believer through the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 1:19-20 and Acts 1:8 point to the Spirit’s power in us. It’s not about doing one big thing—it’s about daily strength: loving your kids, resisting temptation, staying faithful, sharing your faith. If you feel powerless today, maybe it’s time to turn to Jesus. His resurrection power still works. Takeaway The resurrection of Jesus changes everything—not just back then, but right now. But it only works for those who place their faith in Him. Admit your brokenness. Trust in Jesus' death and resurrection. Let Him give you hope, identity, and power. Join us for the rest of this series as we explore how the resurrection—and the Spirit behind it—still works.…
 
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Billions in Debt: The Truth About God’s Forgiveness 26:17

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Welcome back to the podcast! Today, we’re wrapping up our “Generous” series—not with a lesson about money, but about something even more valuable: forgiveness. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Forgiveness and the $18 Billion Debt: What Jesus Really Meant in Matthew 18 The average American household carries over $100,000 in debt, with over $6,000 in credit card balances alone. Debt is normal in our culture. But imagine this: someone walks up and says, “I just paid off your mortgage, your student loans, your credit cards, your car, and your kids’ college tuition.” You’d be speechless. Now picture yourself turning around and blowing up at someone who still owes you ten bucks from last week’s lunch. That’s the exact contrast Jesus paints in Matthew 18 . It’s extreme. It’s uncomfortable. And it’s meant to be. Forgiveness Isn't Optional—It's Essential Matthew 18:21-22 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!” Peter thought he was being generous. Jewish tradition taught you only needed to forgive someone three times. So Peter more than doubled that—and Jesus blew it all out of the water. “Seventy times seven” wasn’t a number—it was a mindset. Forgiveness isn’t a ritual; it’s a daily posture. Jesus’ Parable: The $18 Billion Dollar Debt Matthew 18:23-24 (paraphrased) “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a king who called in his debts. One servant owed him 10,000 talents.” In biblical terms, 10,000 talents is about 200,000 years’ worth of wages —roughly $18 billion today. Jesus was making a point: the debt was absurdly unpayable. Why so much? The man was likely a tax farmer —someone who paid the empire upfront and then overcharged the people to make his profit. Corruption was baked into the job. Matthew 18:25-27 “Since he couldn’t pay, the master ordered he and his family be sold. The man begged for mercy. The master had compassion and forgave the debt completely.” The Greek word used here for compassion— splagchnistheis —refers to deep, gut-level mercy. This is the same word used for Jesus in Matthew 9:36 when he looked at the lost crowds and felt moved to act. The Twist: The Man Who Couldn’t Forgive $30,000 Matthew 18:28-30 “But the forgiven servant went out and found a fellow servant who owed him 100 denarii (about $30,000 today). He choked him and demanded instant payment.” It’s infuriating, right? This man had just been forgiven a ridiculous debt. Then he turns around and can’t forgive someone else a fraction of what he owed. His fellow servant even used the same words: “Be patient with me and I will pay it.” But this time, the plea fell on deaf ears. Matthew 18:31-34 “When the king heard what happened, he was furious. He threw the first servant into prison to be tortured until the debt could be paid.” Which—spoiler alert— it never could. Endless torture was the point. The Point of the Parable: Forgive Like You’ve Been Forgiven Matthew 18:35 “That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart.” This story is ultimately about your heart . About your capacity for compassion. About understanding that you owed God $18 billion—and He forgave you. So now, will you forgive the $30k someone else owes you? What Forgiveness Is (and Isn’t) Let’s get practical. Forgiveness doesn’t mean… That what happened was okay. That you’re pretending it didn’t hurt. That the other person gets off the hook. Forgiveness does mean… You’re releasing the power that pain has over your heart. You’re choosing to stop letting bitterness control you. You’re giving a double gift—one to yourself, and one to the offender. Hebrews 12:15 (NLT) “Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many.” Forgiveness frees you . You can forgive even if they never say sorry. You can forgive and still have healthy boundaries. And most importantly, forgiveness reflects the heart of God . Romans 12:18 (NLT) “Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” Final Challenge: Picture That Person—and Forgive You were in spiritual debt up to your eyeballs. God forgave all of it . So now think about that person who hurt you. Picture their face. Say their name. Ask God for the compassion— splagchnistheis —to forgive them from your heart. This is what relational generosity looks like. And followers of Jesus should be the most generous people in the world.…
 
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The Seasons of Marriage - The Family Podcast 22:58

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In this episode, Tracy explores the four seasons of marriage—spring, summer, fall, and winter—and how couples can thrive in each one by staying intentional, connected, and rooted in God. Learn how to recognize your current season and respond with wisdom, grace, and faith. -- The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- The Seasons of Marriage: How to Grow Through Every Stage of Life Together Marriage, like nature, has seasons. Each one brings its own beauty—and its own challenges. Recognizing the season you’re in can help you lean into God's plan for your relationship, making your marriage stronger and more fruitful no matter the circumstances. Let’s walk through the four seasons of marriage and explore how to navigate them with purpose and love. Spring: Say "Yes" to Your Marriage Spring is the season of new growth. It’s often filled with young children, rising careers, and a never-ending to-do list. This can make marriage feel more like a project than a partnership. But in this busy season, couples must learn the power of saying “No” to the good so they can say “Yes” to the best—their relationship. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.” That includes making intentional space to invest in your spouse. Summer: Embrace the Joy of Togetherness Summer brings warmth, connection, and space to enjoy each other. Maybe the kids are older, or the pressures of early adulthood have passed. This is a great time to intentionally deepen your relationship. Enjoy vacations, long talks, and shared hobbies. But don't get lazy—use this time to keep building a stronger bond. Song of Solomon 2:10 says, “My beloved spoke and said to me, ‘Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, come with me.’” Summer is about pursuing your spouse with intentionality. Fall: Prepare for Change Fall often brings transitions—career shifts, an empty nest, or unexpected loss. Change can be stressful and unsettling. That’s why this season requires grace, communication, and adaptability. It’s easy to turn inward during change, but this is when you need each other the most. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” Trusting God together through change can anchor your marriage. Winter: Fight for Your Marriage Winter is the hardest season. It can bring grief, health issues, financial strain, or emotional distance. These trials are real, but so is God's faithfulness. This is when you fight hardest for your marriage—through prayer, counseling, and a commitment to stay connected even when feelings fade. Ecclesiastes 4:12 says, “A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer.” Winter is not the end—it’s a chance to build resilience and rediscover why you said “I do.” Every marriage goes through seasons. The key is to recognize where you are and respond with grace, truth, and intentionality. With God at the center, you can weather every season together.…
 
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Did Jesus Progress? Understanding Luke 2:52 - Unveiling Mormonism 12:06

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Luke 2:52 shows Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, but does that mean He had to progress into godhood? The Bible teaches that Jesus has always been fully God—eternal and unchanging. -- The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- One of the most fascinating verses about Jesus’ early life is Luke 2:52: "Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people." (NLT) This verse raises an important theological question— did Jesus “progress” over time, even spiritually? Some people, including members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, see this as evidence that Jesus wasn’t always fully divine. According to LDS teaching, even God the Father was once a man who progressed to godhood, and Jesus followed a similar path. But what does the Bible actually say? Let’s break it down and compare the LDS view with what Scripture really teaches about the eternal nature of Jesus Christ. The LDS View: Jesus Progressed to Godhood In LDS teachings, Jesus is seen as the “firstborn spirit child” of Heavenly Father and progressed to become like God. One key scripture cited is Doctrine and Covenants 93:12–14 , which says: “And I, John, saw that he received not of the fulness at the first, but received grace for grace; And he received not of the fulness at first, but continued from grace to grace, until he received a fulness; And thus he was called the Son of God, because he received not of the fulness at the first.” (D&C 93:12–14) LDS leaders interpret this to mean that Jesus had to grow spiritually—receiving "grace for grace"—until He became divine. This supports the broader LDS belief that even God the Father was once a mortal man who progressed to godhood. As stated by former LDS President Lorenzo Snow : “As man is, God once was; as God is, man may become.” This couplet summarizes a core tenet of Mormon theology—that God the Father and Jesus Christ both progressed from a mortal state to divine status. But this concept stands in contrast to the Bible's teaching about Jesus' eternal nature. The Biblical View: Jesus Grew in His Humanity Luke 2:52 shows that Jesus experienced real human development. He grew in body (“stature”), in mind (“wisdom”), in relationships (“favor with all the people”), and in His connection with God the Father (“favor with God”). Jesus didn’t just appear out of nowhere as a fully grown man. He was born as a baby, raised in a family, and matured over time. This aligns with the Christian understanding of the incarnation —that Jesus, though fully God, also became fully human (John 1:14). Hebrews 2:17 says, “Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God.” So yes, Jesus “progressed” in His humanity , not in His divinity. He matured like any person would—because He was truly one of us. Jesus Was Always Fully God Here’s where the Christian understanding differs sharply from LDS teaching. While Jesus grew and learned in His human nature, He never stopped being God. From eternity, Jesus was—and is—fully divine . John 1:1 says, “In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Jesus didn’t have to “become” God. He didn’t earn it. He is God. Philippians 2:6-7 explains that “Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.” Jesus laid aside His privileges—not His divine identity. His Growth Shows His Willingness to Relate to Us The fact that Jesus grew in wisdom and stature shows His humility and love. He chose to enter into the human experience completely, not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us, “This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.” Jesus’ growth doesn’t mean He was ever lacking or imperfect. It means He was fully human in every way—except sin. This matters because it means Jesus can truly sympathize with us. He knows what it’s like to grow, to learn, to struggle, and to trust God. Jesus Did Not Progress to Godhood—He Always Had It Some people point to verses like Luke 2:52 or D&C 93:12–14 to argue that Jesus “became” divine, as if He wasn’t God before. But Scripture is clear: Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). His divine nature didn’t evolve—it’s eternal. The idea that Jesus had to progress to godhood is not found in the Bible. That idea comes from LDS scripture and teachings such as Lorenzo Snow’s couplet. In contrast, the Bible teaches that Jesus condescended , meaning He came down to our level to rescue us. To go deeper on how Christians understand the eternal nature of God and the Trinity, check out pursueGOD.org/trinity . For more on systematic theology and the core doctrines of biblical Christianity, visit pursueGOD.org/systheo .…
 
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Generosity That Gets Its Hands Dirty 33:03

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Welcome back to the podcast! This week, we're continuing our series on generosity. Are you willing to get your hands dirty? Figure out what that meamns in this episode! -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Big Idea: Generosity isn’t just something you give. It’s something you live. When we serve others, we reflect the heart of Jesus. Opening Question: Who’s the most generous person you’ve ever met—not with money, but with their presence , their time , their service ? Examples: Ken - oversees benevolence, goes over the top Mike and Emma - in their 80’s, pulling weeds at the church Clean team members - washing toilets for Jesus Some leadership philosophies say, ‘Don’t get your hands dirty—delegate the dirty work.’ From The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli: Power and control define leadership. Servanthood is seen as weakness. So some have concluded that servants should stay at the lower levels And executives should rise to the top and STOP serving It doesn’t help the organization for them to get their hands dirty But Jesus didn’t climb some ladder and retreat from people. He stepped down from heaven. He picked up a towel. He washed feet. He gave his life. That’s generosity that gets its hands dirty. And that’s the kind of generosity Jesus calls us to. Series Recap: Generosity is giving to others through a selfless act without expecting anything in return. Week 1: The Generosity of God He gives love, provision, guidance—overflowing. Our generosity starts as a response to His generosity. Week 2: Generous in Giving Financial generosity matters—it reflects the heart. But it’s not the whole picture. If we think generosity only happens when we write a check, we miss the life Jesus is calling us to. Today’s focus: Generosity that takes action. That sees needs and serves . This is about serving others with the heart of Jesus. Jesus Modeled Generous Servanthood Matthew 20:25-28 25 But Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. 26 But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. 28 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” The disciples were arguing about status. Jesus reframed it. “Whoever wants to be great must be a servant.” Jesus didn’t just talk about service—he embodied it. “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life.” He didn’t come to receive , but to give . He healed, fed, helped, taught. And ultimately, he gave his life on the cross. That’s generosity: Giving to others Through a selfless act Expecting nothing in return John 13:34 So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Jesus washed his disciples’ feet. Then said: “Love each other as I have loved you.” Love like Jesus = getting your hands dirty. 1. Servanthood at Home Ephesians 5:25 For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her… Husbands, love like Christ—who gave himself for the church. Real love isn’t just romantic feelings. It’s selfless action. In the home: Serve your spouse: not out of duty, but delight. Kids learn by example—more than lectures. Two key ways to train kids in servanthood: Serving within the family: Chores aren’t just chores. They’re opportunities to shape the heart. Connect the dots: “This blesses your sibling / helps mom / supports our family.” Serving with the family: Invite kids to serve alongside you. Our examples: serving on the clean team as a family. Point: Home is the first place to practice generosity that gets its hands dirty. 2. Servanthood at Church A. Formally: Serving through church roles Acts 6:3 And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. Church grew, needs increased. Apostles delegated. Serving was organized—but always about people , not just tasks. Examples: Many Christian churches (esp megachurches): outsource serving opportunities I grew up in one of these churches My first job in high school: church custodian! (hated it) Mormon church: members do the work Don’t even pay pastors (bishops) Only paid staffer at the local level: custodian How we do it: Hundreds of volunteers at all of our campuses Requires a lot of organization and team leadership Kids’ church, youth, coffee, welcome, worship, sound, media etc. How many paid custodians across 8 campuses: 0! Everyone has a chance to get their hands dirty! B. Informally: Serving one another in everyday ways Galatians 5:13 For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. Again we see the connection → serving one another is an expression of “love one another” Roman 12:13 When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. This isn’t a program of the church → just what believers do See a need → act to help Ethiopian mom who opened her home to us Our example: Opening our home to a young couple Crazy story: After prepping this lesson I happened to listen to a podcast A guest mentioned the stat that Baby boomers are house rich, bedrooms to spare Most young people will never be able to afford a home So I googled: The 3 markets with the highest share of excess bedrooms: #3 Salt Lake City, Utah (12%) #2 Colorado Springs, Colo. (12.1%) #1 Ogden, Utah (12.2%) 1 Peter 4:10 God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. 1 John 3:16-18 16 We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister[ f ] in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person? 18 Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. I know you’re starting to see this theme repeated about the nature of love We know what love is based on what Jesus did for us Says: that’s how we ought to love our brothers and sisters in Christ We ought to give up our lives for them That’s exactly what happens when you give up your time / energy / convenience / other priorities → to serve Final verse → talk is cheap (not generous) You can say you love each other all day long → but one thing will prove it Let’s show the truth by our actions 3. Servanthood in the World Galatians 6:10 Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Especially believers - this is clear in the Bible You need to serve the family of faith But this verse includes “everyone” - people who are not part of the family of faith As the appropriate targets of our servanthood This is the heart of Jesus’ parable of the Good Samaritan, in Luke 10 Tells story of a Jewish man who was robbed / beaten up / left for dead → on the side of the road Two Jewish religious leaders walked by / ignored him The one who stopped was not Jewish, but a Samaritan → very different / animosity He did some first aid on the guys wounds Transported him to a motel → paid for him to stay and get fed while he recuperated Luke 10:36-37 36 “Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked. 36 The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.” Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.” We serve the family of faith and the people around us. Jesus said: “Go and do the same.” Example: Tell a story from your life or community—like Sally helping neighbors or walking dogs. Point: Generosity that gets its hands dirty doesn’t check someone’s beliefs first. It sees a need and responds with love. TAKEAWAY: How Will You Get Your Hands Dirty? Generosity that gets its hands dirty means: Serving at home Serving at church Serving in the world All rooted in the example of Jesus—who gave everything for us.…
 
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Court and Becca’s Story: Beyond the Optics - Unveiling Mormonism 30:41

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Court and Becca, both inactive Mormons, discuss their experiences with the church and their journey to Jesus. Becca, raised in a more religious family, held onto her faith despite being inactive, while Court, who became inactive at a young age, had no intention of returning. After having a daughter, Becca felt a sense of urgency to re-engage with the church, leading them to attend services and participate in traditional Mormon practices. They eventually left the church, seeking a more accepting and grace-filled community. Despite initial skepticism, they eventually found a Bible study that rekindled their faith and led them to seek a new church home. Grace, as defined in the Bible, is a gift from God, not something earned through works. Mormons, who believe in salvation through works, miss out on the true meaning of grace and the forgiveness offered by Jesus. -- The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now --…
 
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What Christians Get Wrong About the Tithe 15:11

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Welcome back to the podcast! Tithing is one of the most debated topics in Christian circles. Many believers have been taught that they must give exactly 10% of their income to the church, often based on Old Testament commands. But is this what the Bible truly teaches for New Testament believers? Let's find out! -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Let’s explore some common misconceptions about tithing and what God really expects from us when it comes to giving. Misconception #1: Christians are commanded to tithe. Many Christians believe that tithing is a requirement under the New Covenant, but the truth is that tithing was originally part of the Mosaic Law given to Israel. The 10% tithe had three main purposes: Support for the Levites (and Temple) – The tithe funded the priestly tribe of Israel, who had no land inheritance (Numbers 18:21-24). Numbers 18:21 – “I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting.” Festivals and Worship – Part of the tithe was meant to be used for religious feasts and celebrations in worship of God. Deuteronomy 14:23 – “Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine, and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God... so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always.” Provision for the Poor – A portion of the tithe was used to help widows, orphans, and foreigners (Deuteronomy 14:28-29). Deuteronomy 14:29 – “The Levites... and the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns may come and eat and be satisfied, so that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.” So: The Old Testament tithe functioned more like a national tax than a purely voluntary religious offering. When combined, these tithes amounted to about 23.3% of a person's agricultural income over a three-year cycle—closer to a national tax supporting both religious and social functions in Israel. Unlike modern church tithing, which is often seen as an act of personal giving, the Old Testament system was more like a structured government tax ensuring the well-being of the nation. The New Testament mentions tithing in a a grand total of four passages: Hebrews 7:1-10 Hebrews 7:5-6 (NLT) Now the law of Moses required that the priests, who are descendants of Levi, must collect a tithe from the rest of the people of Israel, who are also descendants of Abraham. But Melchizedek, who was not a descendant of Levi, collected a tenth from Abraham. Context: This passage discusses Abraham giving a tenth to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:20) and connects it to Jesus' superior priesthood. However, it does not command Christians to tithe but rather uses tithing as a historical reference to highlight the greatness of Christ’s priesthood. Hebrews 7:9 (NLT) we might even say that these Levites—the ones who collect the tithe—paid a tithe to Melchizedek when their ancestor Abraham paid a tithe to him. Matthew 23:23 (also Luke 11:42) Matthew 23:23 (NLT) 23 “What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things.” Context: Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their legalistic approach to tithing while neglecting more important spiritual matters. He acknowledges their tithing but emphasizes that justice, mercy, and faithfulness are more important. Luke 18:12 (parable of Jesus) Luke 18:11-12 (NLT) The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not like other people—cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.’ Context: This is part of the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee boasts about his tithing, but Jesus contrasts his self-righteousness with the humility of the tax collector, showing that God values a repentant heart over legalistic practices. So clearly, Christians are NOT commanded to tithe in the New Testament Anyone who says they are is putting words in God’s mouth. But this isn’t the biggest misconception about tithing by a longshot. Because today, most Christians aren’t legalistic about giving at all If that’s you, listen to this… Misconception #2: Christians are free NOT to give Many Christians understand the first myth and misapply it to create this second myth. They think freedom in Christ means freedom from giving. Wrong! What we do with our money matters to God. It’s a HUGE litmus test for our devotion to Jesus. IOW: Just because we’re not required to tithe DOES NOT mean we shouldn’t give. That’s why Jesus spoke about money frequently in the Gospels—more than most other topics. Approximately 11 of Jesus' 39 parables focus on money or use money as a key illustration. Money is mentioned in about 15% of Jesus’ recorded teachings. Here are a few examples: The Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:16-30, Mark 10:17-31, Luke 18:18-30) – Jesus tells a wealthy man to sell his possessions and follow Him, showing the danger of wealth becoming an idol. Matthew 19:23 (NLT) 23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “I tell you the truth, it is very hard for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” The Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21) – A man builds bigger barns to store wealth, but God calls him a fool because he isn’t "rich toward God." Luke 12:15 (NLT) 15 Then he said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.” "You Cannot Serve Both God and Money" (Matthew 6:24, Luke 16:13) – Jesus warns about wealth competing with devotion to God. Matthew 6:24 (NLT) 24 “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.” "Give to Caesar What Is Caesar’s" (Matthew 22:15-22, Mark 12:13-17, Luke 20:20-26) – Jesus addresses taxation and the balance between duty to government and duty to God. Mark 12:17 (NLT) 17 “Well, then,” Jesus said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” What would happen if you didn’t pay your taxes? What will happen if you don’t ever give to God? The Cost of Discipleship (Luke 14:28-33) – Uses financial planning as a metaphor for counting the cost of following Him. Luke 14:33 (NLT) 33 So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own. Just because we’re not required to tithe DOES NOT mean we shouldn’t give. Misconception #3: God Cares about Your Heart, Not the Amount Here’s the reality: God cares about your heart more than the amount of money you give. That’s true enough. But dig just a little deeper for the facts: the relative amount you give almost always indicates your heart toward God, and whether you are truly generous (as we’ve been defining). That’s what the story of the poor widow is all about: Luke 21:1-4 (NLT) 1 While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.” Jesus praised the widow who gave two small coins because she gave out of faith and sacrifice, while others gave large amounts with wrong motives. But don’t miss the point: Jesus noticed the amount they gave compared to the amount they had. There’s a mathematical term for that: percentage. Takeaway Christians are not under a legalistic obligation to tithe 10% of their income. Instead, God calls us to generous, cheerful, and sacrificial giving as an act of worship. Whether it’s 10%, more, or less, the key is to give with the right heart and to trust God with our finances. Christians are NOT commanded to tithe in the New Testament But just because we’re not required to tithe DOES NOT mean we shouldn’t give. God cares about your heart… and the amount is a signpost the relative amount you give almost always indicates your heart toward God, and whether you are truly generous Generosity is giving to others through a selfless act without expecting anything in return.…
 
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Tips for Giving Constructive Criticism to Your Teens - The Family Podcast 15:31

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How feedback is given makes all the difference! This episode covers practical do’s and don’ts for correcting with grace, encouraging growth, and keeping communication open with teens. Learn how to balance honesty with kindness and build trust while guiding them toward maturity. -- The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Giving Helpful Feedback to Your Teen As parents, we want to guide our teens toward maturity, but how we give feedback can make all the difference. The Bible encourages us to speak truth in love ( Ephesians 4:29 ), which means balancing honesty with kindness. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you give feedback that builds your teen up instead of tearing them down. The Do’s: Be Kind but Clear – Your words should encourage growth, not just point out flaws. Make sure your feedback is constructive, not critical. ( Ephesians 4:29 ) Give Time to Process – Your teen might not immediately agree with you. Be patient and trust that your words will sink in over time. Keep Earning Trust – Build a relationship where they feel safe to hear your feedback. Spend time with them, listen to their thoughts, and engage in their world. The Don’ts: Don’t Be Passive-Aggressive – Sarcasm or veiled criticism, even if meant as a joke, can create distance instead of growth. Don’t Be a Nag – Constantly pointing out flaws can make your teen tune you out. Pick your battles wisely. Don’t Lecture – Teens often know what you’re going to say before you say it. Instead of a lecture, invite them into the conversation and let them express their perspective. ( Proverbs 22:6 ) Giving helpful feedback is about more than just correcting behavior—it’s about shaping the heart and character of your teen in a way that honors God.…
 
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Generous God 27:03

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Welcome back to the podcast! We’re launching a four-week series on generosity, and here’s the premise: Christians should be the most generous people in the world. And the evidence backs this up. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- Christians Lead in Generosity Research from organizations like the Barna Group and Philanthropy Roundtable confirms that Christians donate significantly more to charities—both religious and secular—than non-religious people. Consider these statistics: In 2018, secular households in the U.S. donated an average of $1,225 annually, with a median donation of $450. Religious households gave more—an average of $2,656 per year, with a median of $1,000. The World Giving Index evaluates nations based on helping a stranger, donating money, and volunteering. The 2023 top five are: Indonesia – Score: 68; 82% donated money, 61% volunteered time. Ukraine – Score: 62; 78% donated money, 37% volunteered time. Kenya – Score: 60; 53% donated money, 51% volunteered time. USA – Score: 58; 61% donated money, 38% volunteered time. The U.S. leads in total foreign aid donations, disbursing $71.9 billion in 2023. It also ranks first in individual charitable giving as a percentage of GDP (1.44%). Clearly, generosity is a defining mark of believers. But what exactly is generosity? Defining Generosity Generosity is giving to others through a selfless act without expecting anything in return. Let’s break that down: Giving to Others – This could be financial, relational, or otherwise. In this series, we’ll cover: Week 2: Giving Week 3: Serving Week 4: Forgiving A Selfless Act – Many people are naturally generous—to themselves! But biblical generosity flips the script: Some are extravagant toward their own material desires but stingy toward others’ needs. True generosity prioritizes others above personal gain. Without Expecting Anything in Return – This is the real test. Do you give in your marriage without expecting something back? Do you parent with an expectation of repayment? Are you friends with people who only take, or do you model generosity regardless? God’s Generosity in the Bible God is the ultimate example of generosity. From creation to salvation, He gives freely, abundantly, and graciously. God’s Generous Provision Genesis 1:28-30 (NLT): “Then God blessed them and said, ‘Be fruitful and multiply... I have given you every seed-bearing plant throughout the earth and all the fruit trees for your food.’” From the very beginning, God provided everything needed for life. Even after humanity’s failure, He continued to provide, not because of our worthiness, but because of His nature. Matthew 5:45b (NLT): “For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike.” God’s Generous Guidance James 1:5 (NLT): “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you.” God is not stingy with His wisdom. King Solomon’s request for understanding (1 Kings 3:9) pleased God, and He responded by giving wisdom, wealth, and honor beyond expectation (1 Kings 3:10-13). God delights in generously guiding His people. God’s Generous Love John 3:16 (NLT): “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” Romans 5:8 (NLT): “But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” God’s generosity is not transactional—it is sacrificial. He gives not because we have earned it, but because He loves us unconditionally. How Should We Respond? Since God has been so generous to us, how should we respond? The Bible encourages us to reflect His generosity in our lives—by giving freely, serving others, and forgiving others. That’s what this series is all about.…
 
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The Sovereignty of God in the Storms of Life (Acts 27-28) 30:06

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Welcome back to the podcast! Life’s storms are inevitable, but they are never without purpose. In Acts 27-28, Paul faces a brutal shipwreck, yet through it all, God positions him for greater influence and impact. Join us today as we finish our series on the book of Acts! -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- The Sovereignty of God in the Storms of Life Today, we conclude our study of the book of Acts by returning to the verse that set the foundation for the entire book: Acts 1:8 (NLT) – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Throughout Acts, we’ve seen this mission unfold. The book began with Peter as the central figure, but in the second half, Paul took the lead. However, the real main character of Acts is not Peter or Paul—it’s the Holy Spirit , guiding and empowering believers. As we study Acts 27-28 , we encounter one of the most famous shipwreck stories in history. More than just an adventure, it teaches us powerful lessons about trusting God in life’s storms . We will uncover three key truths that remind us of God’s sovereignty, even in the fiercest trials. 1. Storms Can Come Even in the Center of God’s Will Acts 27:1 (NLT) – “When the time came, we set sail for Italy. Paul and several other prisoners were placed in the custody of a Roman officer named Julius, a captain of the Imperial Regiment.” Paul’s journey to Rome, described in Acts 27-28 , is sometimes called his fourth missionary journey , though he was technically a prisoner under Roman custody . His earlier missionary journeys had taken him across the Mediterranean world: First Journey (Acts 13–14): Paul and Barnabas traveled through Cyprus and Asia Minor. Second Journey (Acts 15:36–18:22): Paul extended his mission into Greece. Third Journey (Acts 18:23–21:17): Paul revisited churches and had an extended stay in Ephesus before heading to Jerusalem, where he was arrested. Now, on his way to stand trial before Caesar, Paul encounters a storm unlike any before . Acts 27:20 (NLT) – “The terrible storm raged for many days, blotting out the sun and the stars, until at last all hope was gone.” This moment reminds us that following Christ does not guarantee an easy journey . In fact, trials often come even when we are in the center of God’s will . Paul himself described the immense hardships he faced: 2 Corinthians 11:25-27 (NLT) – “Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea… I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas...” Paul wrote 2 Corinthians before this shipwreck in Acts 27 , meaning he had already experienced multiple shipwrecks! His life was a testament to perseverance in the face of storms. Application: Storms don’t mean you’re outside God’s will. Faithfulness to God does not exempt us from suffering. Trials test and refine our trust in God’s plan. 2. Storms Can Elevate You to a Place of Influence Amid the chaos, something surprising happens: Paul, a prisoner, becomes the leader of the ship. Acts 27:21-22 (NLT) – “No one had eaten for a long time. Finally, Paul called the crew together and said, ‘Men, you should have listened to me in the first place and not left Crete. You would have avoided all this damage and loss. But take courage! None of you will lose your lives, even though the ship will go down.’” At first, Paul was just another prisoner. But as the storm raged, the crew turned to him for guidance . He gave orders that even the Roman soldiers obeyed: Acts 27:30-32 (NLT) – “Then the sailors tried to abandon the ship… But Paul said to the commanding officer and the soldiers, ‘You will all die unless the sailors stay aboard.’ So the soldiers cut the ropes to the lifeboat and let it drift away.” Acts 27:33-35 (NLT) – “Just as day was dawning, Paul urged everyone to eat… Then he took some bread, gave thanks to God before them all, and broke off a piece and ate it.” In times of crisis , God often raises up His people to places of influence. This is a recurring biblical pattern: Joseph rose to power in Egypt after enduring slavery and imprisonment. Daniel was promoted in Babylon after standing firm in faith. Paul’s experience aligns with this truth: 2 Corinthians 12:10 (NLT) – “That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” Application: God can use your trials to give you a platform for influence. Leadership is not about position —it’s about character and trust in God. Your faith in trials can be a powerful witness to others. 3. Storms Can Test the Quality of Your Faith After surviving the storm, Paul finally arrives in Rome . But instead of retreating in exhaustion, he continues to boldly proclaim the gospel : Acts 28:30-31 (NLT) – “For the next two years, Paul lived in Rome at his own expense. He welcomed all who visited him, boldly proclaiming the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ. And no one tried to stop him.” Paul doesn’t complain. He doesn’t wallow in self-pity. He keeps sharing the gospel with relentless obedience. How do you react to storms? Do you trust God’s sovereignty , or do you panic? Do you see trials as an opportunity for growth , or just as an obstacle? The book of Acts ends on a cliffhanger —Paul in Rome, awaiting trial. Church tradition suggests the following events happened after Acts 28: Paul’s First Roman Imprisonment (A.D. 60-62) – He preached under house arrest and wrote Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon . Paul’s Release and Further Ministry (A.D. 62-66?) – He possibly traveled to Spain and revisited churches. Paul’s Second Roman Imprisonment and Martyrdom (A.D. 67-68) – Arrested under Nero’s persecution , Paul was likely beheaded for his faith. Paul’s unwavering faith is captured in his words: Philippians 1:20-21 (NLT) – “I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.” Application: Storms reveal the true depth of our faith. God’s sovereignty means nothing happens outside His control. Faithfulness is measured not just in easy times but in trials. Paul’s journey through the storm in Acts 27-28 reminds us of three key truths: Storms Can Come Even in the Center of God’s Will – Trials do not mean you’re outside God’s plan. Storms Can Elevate You to a Place of Influence – God can use hardships to give you opportunities to lead. Storms Can Test the Quality of Your Faith – Trials reveal what you truly believe about God’s sovereignty. No matter what storm you face, God is still on the throne. Will you trust Him ? Will you remain faithful ? Even in life’s fiercest trials, God is working for His glory and your good . Keep your eyes on Him.…
 
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How to Predict a Healthy Marriage - The Family Podcast 21:48

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In this episode, Tracy explores a powerful concept that can shape the way you view your marriage—for better or worse. She discusses Positive and Negative Sentiment Override , a mindset that influences whether you focus on the qualities you love and respect in your spouse or dwell on the things that frustrate or hurt you. Your perspective can either foster a thriving, joyful relationship or lead to a cycle of negativity and despair. -- The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now --…
 
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How to Share Your Testimony (Acts 25-26) 26:37

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Welcome back to the podcast! One of the most powerful tools we have as believers is our personal testimony—our story of encountering Jesus and experiencing His transforming power. In today's episode, we'll look at Paul's approach to this while he stood trial. -- The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you’re looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org . Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series . Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship. Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org. Donate Now -- The Apostle Paul provides a masterclass in sharing one’s testimony in Acts 25–26 when he stands trial before Governor Festus and King Agrippa. His defense is not just a legal argument but a compelling gospel presentation. Today we’ll talk about five steps to sharing your testimony effectively. But first, a couple of introductory comments to set this thing up… A. Look for Divine Encounters Everywhere Some people wait for the perfect opportunity to share their testimony, but it never comes. They expect a “divine encounter” to be obvious and heavenly, but usually it’s just another moment in an otherwise ordinary day. In fact, it could even be on your worst day that God drops an opportunity on your lap. That’s what seemed to happen with Paul: Acts 24:27 (NLT) 27 After two years went by in this way [Paul in prison after being falsely accused], Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And because Felix wanted to gain favor with the Jewish people, he left Paul in prison. Paul didn’t take a break from sharing his faith when he was imprisoned and on his way to Rome for trial. Every step of the way, wherever he found himself, he looked for opportunities to tell people his story - and more importantly the gospel story. Here’s how he said it to his understudy: 2 Timothy 4:2 (NLT) 2 Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not…. Swan - Possibly ref. Peter as well for those who believe they have screwed up too badly to credibly share the Gospel??? 1 Peter 3:15 (NLT) …And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. When it comes to sharing your testimony, don’t wait for the perfect opportunity. Be ready to share your story on the good days and the bad days. Any moment can be a divine encounter; you just have to be looking for it. Great conversation starters: “If you could have one miracle, what would it be?” “On a scale from 1 to 10, how close do you feel to God?” B. Put Yourself in a Seeker’s Shoes Paul was a genius when it came to communicating the gospel to different types of people. He started with his people, the Jews. Then he moved on to the Gentiles. In these chapters he’s… Acts 25:17-19 (NLT) 17 When his accusers came here for the trial, I didn’t delay. I called the case the very next day and ordered Paul brought in. 18 But the accusations made against him weren’t any of the crimes I expected. 19 Instead, it was something about their religion and a dead man named Jesus, who Paul insists is alive. 1 Corinthians 9:22-23 (NLT) 22 … Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some. 23 I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings. 1. Start with Your Life Before Christ Paul begins by recounting his background, emphasizing his zeal as a Pharisee and his persecution of Christians (Acts 26:4-11). He highlights that he was once opposed to Jesus, making his transformation all the more striking. Acts 26:9-11 (NLT) 9 “I used to believe that I ought to do everything I could to oppose the very name of Jesus the Nazarene. 10 Indeed, I did just that in Jerusalem. Authorized by the leading priests, I caused many believers there to be sent to prison. And I cast my vote against them when they were condemned to death. 11 Many times I had them punished in the synagogues to get them to curse Jesus. I was so violently opposed to them that I even chased them down in foreign cities.” Application: When sharing your testimony, start with where you were before you met Christ. What was your mindset, your struggles, or your misconceptions? This helps others relate to your journey and see the power of change. 2. Describe Your Encounter with Christ Paul vividly recounts his dramatic meeting with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 26:12-18). He details how Christ confronted him, revealed His identity, and called him to a new mission. Acts 26:12-15 (NLT) 12 “One day I was on such a mission to Damascus, armed with the authority and commission of the leading priests. 13 About noon, Your Majesty, as I was on the road, a light from heaven brighter than the sun shone down on me and my companions. 14 We all fell down, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is useless for you to fight against my will.’ 15 “‘Who are you, lord?’ I asked. “And the Lord replied, ‘I am Jesus, the one you are persecuting.’ Application: Share how you came to know Christ personally. Whether your experience was dramatic or quiet, explain what led you to surrender your life to Jesus. Be specific about what changed in your heart and mind. 3. Explain How Your Life Changed Paul doesn’t stop at his conversion—he describes how his life radically changed. He became a bold preacher of the gospel, calling people to repentance (Acts 26:19-23). Acts 26:19-22 (NLT) 19 “And so, King Agrippa, I obeyed that vision from heaven. 20 I preached first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that all must repent of their sins and turn to God—and prove they have changed by the good things they do. 21 Some Jews arrested me in the Temple for preaching this, and they tried to kill me. 22 But God has protected me right up to this present time so I can testify to everyone, from the least to the greatest. Application: Tell others how your life has been transformed. What changes have you experienced in your thoughts, actions, and purpose? How has your relationship with Christ shaped your daily life? 4. Point People to the Gospel Paul doesn’t just share his story—he ties it back to Jesus and the message of salvation. He tells Agrippa that Christ’s death and resurrection fulfill the Scriptures (Acts 26:22-23). Acts 26:17-18 (NLT) ‘Yes, I am sending you to the Gentiles 18 to open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God’s people, who are set apart by faith in me.’ Application: Your testimony is not just about you—it’s ultimately about Jesus. Use your story as a bridge to explain the gospel, emphasizing that the same grace that saved you is available to everyone. 5. Be Bold and Trust God with the Results Paul’s testimony provokes strong reactions. Festus calls him crazy (Acts 26:24), and Agrippa seems moved but noncommittal (Acts 26:28). Yet, Paul remains bold, expressing his desire for everyone to come to faith in Christ (Acts 26:29). Acts 26:28-29 (NLT) 28 Agrippa interrupted him. “Do you think you can persuade me to become a Christian so quickly?” 29 Paul replied, “Whether quickly or not, I pray to God that both you and everyone here in this audience might become the same as I am, except for these chains.” Application: Expect mixed responses when sharing your testimony. Some may be intrigued, others may resist, but our job is to faithfully proclaim what Jesus has done in our lives and trust God with the results. Close Sharing your testimony is a powerful way to witness for Christ. By following Paul’s example in Acts 25–26, we can learn to share our story in a way that is relatable, Christ-centered, and bold. Remember, your testimony is unique and valuable—God can use it to impact lives and draw others to Himself. 1 Peter 3:15 (NLT) …And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it.…
 
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