Join The Journey

"Matthew 27 shows us the suffering Jesus endured to bring salvation to the world. How should seeing the cost of the cross deepen our sense of urgency for getting Scripture to those who haven't heard? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Seed Company CEO and Watermark member, Davis Powell about Matthew 27-28. Davis talks about the importance of accessibility of the Scriptures for all people and explains how Seed Company is meeting this need in unreached people groups. Additional References: Revelations 7:9; Ephesians 2:10 Join us and the Seed Company as we unlock more projects in Bible Translation! https://seed.bible/campaigns/watermark Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf"

"How should it shape the way we pray in hard moments? What are we supposed to remember when we take communion? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Scott Fowler, Matthew 26 and discuss the events of Jesus praying in Gethsemane, the establishment of communion, and how we can apply both of these stories to our own lives. Additional References: Luke 18; Matthew 7; Ephesians 2:8-9 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf"

"What about the ends times are we actually supposed to understand and apply today? What do the parables in Matthew 25 teach us about how to live while we wait for Jesus to return? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks about Matthew 24-25 and how we can wait well for the Lord to return by being ready, faithful, and fruitful. Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf"

"What can we learn from how Jesus responds to tricky questions in Matthew 22? What was the context in Matthew 23, where Jesus harshly criticizes the religious leaders? What can modern readers learn from this story? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Ross Ferrans, discuss Matthew 22-23 and talk about how to keep our heart aligned with God's and Jesus' heart for the people who criticized him the most. Check out events we have for newly married couples: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/foundation-groups Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf"

"What does Jesus' parable in Matthew 20:1-16 teach us about God's justice and why might it feel unfair to us? In Matthew 21, why does Jesus cleanse the temple and curse the fig tree? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Baker Flagg, talk about Matthew 20-21 and answer these questions by unpacking these stories. Additional References: Romans 3:23; 6:23; John 15:2-6; Proverbs 3:5-6 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf "

"Should I actually cut off my extremeties based on Matthew 18:8-9? What does Jesus mean? What does 18:35 mean? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark student, Andrew Thompson about the importance of going to war with our sin and what it looks like to kill our sin. They discuss how forgiveness is also a fruit of our salvation and how we are called to forgive others. Additional References: Romans 8:13; Proverbs 6:6-11; Ephesians 4:32; Ephesians 1:7 To register for the Watermark Students Retreat: https://www.watermark.org/events/6650-watermark-students-retreat-2025 Got Questions Article referred to in today's episode: https://www.gotquestions.org/pluck-out-eye-cut-off-hand.html Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf"

"What is the ""rock"" that Jesus says he will build his church on? What is the significance of Matthew 16:13-20 and how have Christians understood this text throughout history? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Alan Beam discuss the three theological stances on the phrase ""on this rock, I will build my church"" that is said by Jesus in 16:18. Additional References: 1 Corinthians 10:4; Ephesians 2:19-20; 1 Peter 2:4-5 Check out Great Questions if you have any questions about faith and theology. https://www.watermark.org/ministries/great-questions If you have questions about the Bible, check out www.gotquestions.org Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf"

"Why did Jesus speak in parables if people wouldn't understand? Is Jesus calling this woman a dog? What's happening in this story, what can we learn, and why is it important? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Emily Carter, talk about Matthew 13-15 and discuss the significance of parables in Jesus' time, how we can learn from them today, and Jesus' heart to know all people. Additional References: Romans 1:16 If you're a young adult, join us for The Porch on Tuesday nights: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/the-porch If you'd like to connect with Re:gen, go to https://www.watermark.org/ministries/regeneration-recovery Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf"

"What is meant by ""blasphemy against the Holy Spirit,"" and am I in danger of committing an unforgivable sin? in today's episode, Emma Dotter and Jo O'Steen talk about Matthew 11-12 and explain what it means to blasphemy and the difference between blasphemy against Jesus and the Spirit. Check out the article from GotQuestions: https://www.gotquestions.org/blasphemy-Holy-Spirit.html To learn how to serve with International Students: https://www.watermark.org/outreach/international-students You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf"

"Is Jesus being harsh to the disciples in Matthew 8:18-22? How should we interpret and apply this passage? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark student, Campbell Henke about Matthew 8-10 and discuss the urgency of following Christ, how our faith (not works) is what saves us, and how we will experience persecution for our faith. Additional References: Romans 3:28; Jeremiah 7:27 Students, join us for Shoreline: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/students You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf"

"What does it mean to be poor in spirit? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and South Dallas Watermark member Jacob Arrington to discuss Matthew 5-7, and talk specifically about the lessons that Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount. Jacob reminds us that we live out this sermon by knowing who we are and who God is, seeking him daily. Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"Why does Matthew refer to the prophets so much? What is the significance this Old Testament usage by Matthew? In today's episode, Will McIlroy talks with Watemark member, Christine Saso about Matthew 1-4 and talk through the geneology of Matthew 1, the temptation of Jesus, and why the use of the Old Testament was significant to the people who would have read it in Jesus' time. Additional References: Micah 5:2; Isaiah 7:14; If you're a student, join us for Shoreline on October 1st! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/shoreline You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"What happens in between the Old Testament and New Testament? How does this time period set the stage for Jesus' birth? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Join The Journey summer intern, Evelyn Parsley, walk us through the political and cultural events that lead up the start of the New Testament and the birth of Jesus Christ. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for this week's devotionals and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"How does the “You say… but I say…” style shape the message, and what does it reveal about the spiritual condition of the post-exilic community? How should we understand the prophecy of a “messenger who prepares the way” in Malachi 3:1 and the “Elijah” figure in 4:5? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with one of our Join The Journey editors, Scott Breedlove about Malachi. Scott challenges us to see the bigger picture that God is writing, trust his promises, and check our hearts for contemptment against God. Additional references: Matthew 11:7-15; Luke 1:15-17; Matthew 17:10-13; To apply to be a Join The Journey editor: https://www.watermark.org/search/serve?query=Join%20the%20journey You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"How should we interpret the symbolism of the two staffs—Favor and Union—in Zechariah 11? How did first-century Jews Zechariah 12-14, and how do Christians understand their fulfillment? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Seth Reich answer these questions and explore how Jesus fulfills the prophecies that are seen in Zechariah 11-14. Additional References: Matthew 27:9-10; Matthew 26:21; John 19:37; Revelation 1:7 To apply to be a Join The Journey editor: https://www.watermark.org/search/serve?query=Join%20the%20journey You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"How should we understand the imagery of the crowning of Joshua in Zechariah 6? Is it purely symbolic, or does it have messianic implications? In Zechariah 7–8, what, if anything, does the shift from fasting to feasting reveal about God’s priorities for His people’s spiritual practices? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Paul Figel talk about Zechariah 6-10 and answer these questions while discussing God's restoration in our own lives. Additional references: Jeremiah 33:15-18 Got some theology questions? Check out or submit a question with Great Questions: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/great-questions To volunteer with Watermark Health: https://www.watermark.org/outreach/healthcare Check out Watermark's Local Outreach: https://www.watermark.org/engage/outreach Check out more episodes by Paul: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-006-genesis-6-9-7-24/id1600151923?i=1000593167222 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-023-leviticus-1-5/id1600151923?i=1000685620363 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

What’s the significance of the repeated question, “What do you see?” in Zechariah’s visions? How are the visions in Zechariah 1–5 different from or similar to other prophetic visions in the Old Testament? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Nate Roberts talk about Zechariah and helps us understand the context, audience, and themes of this prophetic book. Nate reminds us that the prophetic books are worth us slowing down to read and study because they point to Jesus and the promises that are fulfilled through Jesus. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources!https://www.jointhejourney.com/Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df

"Why does Haggai date his prophecies so precisely—with references to the reign of Darius and specific days? And in Haggai 2, God says the future glory of the temple will be greater than the former. How would Zerubbabel’s audience have understood that promise? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter is joined by faithful Watermark Member Karis Smith to talk all things Haggai. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?"

"Why is does Zephaniah use a strong tone at the beginning of the book, and how would the original audience have heard that? How does the concept of ""a remnant"" function in Zephaniah's prophecy, and how might it have given hope to his listeners? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Matt Hein, set up the book of Zephaniah and talk how the Israelites were being called back to God's heart out of a place of complacency. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?"

"Why does Habakkuk begin with a complaint rather than a call to repentance or judgment like other prophets? In Habakkuk 2:4, what does it mean that “the righteous shall live by faith,” and how would a sixth-century Israelite have understood that phrase? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Seth Master talk about the lament that is seen in this book. Habakkuk reminds us that faith does not remove suffering, but it transforms our response to it. Additional References: Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:38 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?"