God tells us to pray. We know it's important. But are our prayers effective? Are we missing something? Maybe. This sermon (also released as a podcast episode) unpacks 1 John 5:14 and leaves us with several biblical guidelines for effective prayer. Alignment matters.
God's commands can feel difficult -- like something we have to do, not something we want to do. But when we better understand the reasons behind them, it can shift our perspective (and relationship). This sermon (also released as a podcast episode) unpacks 1 John 5:1-12.
Distracted driving is a public safety concern. But distracted living is a much bigger threat. The apostle John has some critical words to keep us focused. This sermon (also released as a podcast episode) explores 1 John 4:7-21. It also discusses judgment day, how "perfect loves casts out fear," and how love has a "rival" in our lives.
Have you seen those pictures where there's an angel over someone's shoulder and a demon over the other? Is that accurate, mythology, or something else? This sermon (also released as a podcast episode) unpacks 1 John 4:1-6, what the apostle means by "testing the spirits," and shares six helps by Jonathan Edwards.
Christie Thomas is the author of "Little Habits, Big Faith." She's also a family discipleship coach and mom. She believes that every Christian parent, including those who feel unsure at first, can nurture deep faith in their kids through little habits that add up over time. This episode is a conversation with Christie that is down-to-earth, fun, and informative.
"Christian" is a noun, yes. Early followers of Jesus were called "disciples" or people of "the Way." Have we lost something of the action-oriented dimension of our faith? In this sermon on 1 John 3:11-24 (also released as a podcast episode) I explain the text, and also John's instruction to love one another, even in the face of pain, problems, and even death.
Self-indulgence is in, self-denial is out. But God gave us fasting for our own good. Athletes go to the gym. Saints fast. This episode is an audio version of an article I wrote for LivingInTruth.ca. Originally geared toward leaders, it's helpful for anyone who wants to know more and build spiritual muscle.
The apostle says we should "purify" ourselves. It will prepare us to meet Jesus, make our lives more pleasing to God, and improve our quality of life. This sermon (also released as a podcast episode) explores 1 John 2:28-3:10, leverages a simple-but-helpful Canadian illustration, and offers practical help.
Hitler, Stalin, Nero, and even the Pope have been accused of being the Antichrist? But who (or what) is it? Is there more than one? When will he come, and what does any of it have to do with you? In this sermon (also released as a podcast episode) we look at 1 John 2:18-27 and John's teaching on the antichrist(s). We should be warned (in more ways than we think).
We're in a new era, that's for sure. Did you know you're supposed to pray for your pastor? Here are 13 ideas to help.
Our culture seems to be of two minds. On one hand it celebrates being different and unique. “You do you!” On the other hand, we want desperately to fit in, to be affirmed, and to be like everybody else. This tension is felt by Christians too. But we need to wrestle with something: Why do […]
It's the 3 A's - accessible, anonymous and affordable. It's also addictive. Many people want out or are filled with shame or guilt. But there is real help and hope. This episode is a talk with Sathiya Sam, a recovery coach, host of The Man Within podcast, creator of a recovery system, and author of The Last Relapse. Wholeness is possible.
God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. So said John the apostle. How do we walk in that "light" and turn from darkness? This sermon (also released as a podcast episode) explores 1 John 1:1-10 and is Part in the series "For the love of God." Let's bear the cross AND wear the crown.
Wisdom is good. But what is it? If fifty million people say something is wise, is it? Not necessarily. In this sermon on Matthew 7:24-29 (also released as a podcast episode), I unpack Jesus' own definition. We also look very clearly at how to live that way.
It’s one of Jesus’ most famous and inspirational statements. It’s also one of the most difficult. “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Sounds good in theory, but what about in reality? What about the people who have wronged you personally or who have done something against a loved one? Miroslav Volf […]
You shall honour your father and mother. So says the 10 Commandments. But what about when abuse has been present? This podcast episode and blog shares and answer.
Let's be honest: Do we approach our relationship with God like a vending machine? If I do this, you do that? This sermon (also released as a podcast episode) unpacks Psalm 33 and asks, do we want a relationship with God on his terms and for his purposes, or on our terms and for our purposes?
Join in with this prayer to a muscular Saviour, a King who leads the charge and takes the victory, handing it over to his people...
The King fell in love with (and married) the prostitute! What a scandal! Everything he had now belonged to her. This, Luther says, is at the heart of the Christian gospel. And it's very good news for those who feel like they just don't measure up. This sermon (also released as a podcast episode) is the final instalment in our series on the 10 Commandments called "The Royal Family Code."
I write a daily devotional five days a week. It's called The Up Daily Devotional -- and it's celebrating 10 years! Here's a bit more info, and an interview with Todd Gale of Life 100.3FM. What is it? How does it help? How can I sign up?