JED BREAKS BREAD

Ep 138 | Embrace God's Purpose In Adversity

How do we handle adversity and affliction? Our natural instinct is run from it and to try to avoid it at all costs; however, our God uses it to transform us into the image of His Son. 

 

Intro music is by AudioCoffee(Denys Kyshchuk):

https://www.audiocoffee.net/. I have named this song "Little City Big Sound." 

Outro music is "My Town Yo Town" by Doug Maxwell/Media Right Productions.

Ep 137 | Does The Bible Affirm LGBTQ "Christians"?

This week's episode examines the common arguments that are used in favor of affirming Biblical support for LGBTQ "Christians". There are five common lines of argumentation which have been used to alter the Church's historical position regarding sex and sexuality. I explain each tactic and why it is not a valid argument. 

The main problem with accepting an LGBTQ "Christian" is that sin has been redefined. It's impossible to become a true Christian without repentance; therefore, we must accept God's definition of sin and submit to Jesus's call to repent. If we do, then we can be saved from any sin - no matter how great or small! 

Ep 136 | The Gospel of Affirmation

What is the Gospel of Affirmation? This is a phrase I coined to describe the willingness of certain so-called Christians to re-define the true Gospel in order to be more "inclusive" of the LGBTQ+ community. The Gospel of Affirmation allows so-called "Christians" to maintain a sexual identity or practice which is contrary to God's created order. 

Listen to the full episode for details on how this Gospel came about, what the false premises are, and how it deceives well-intentioned people and could possibly condemn them for all eternity. 

Ep 135 | Is Same Sex Attraction A Sin?

Often Same Sex Attraction (S.S.A.) is a struggle that Christians face alone. The "church" has often done a poor job of helping believers think through this particular issue and how or when it crosses the line to become sin. Some Christians are afraid of talking about their struggles with it because "LGBTQ" sin has been ostracized as the "worst" kind of sin a person could commit. Of course, this isn't true, but for many, their perception has become reality (and sadly, some churches have indeed treated it as such). 

In this episode, I define S.S.A. and provide Biblical insight as to how it ought to be categorized in the different "types" of sin a person might commit, and how victory over it can be achieved. 

Ep 134 | As a Christian, Should I Fast?

One of the great spiritual disciplines that has been used by God's people all throughout history is the practice of fasting. However, when one examines the evangelical church in America over the last 40-50 years, one would have a hard time discerning if fasting is even relevant anymore. Think about it: When is the last time you heard a sermon or Sunday school lesson on fasting? When is the last you time yourself fasted, or even heard of someone fasting? 

This episode seeks to define fasting and understand the spiritual benefits and blessings of this important practice. 

 

Intro music is by AudioCoffee(Denys Kyshchuk):

https://www.audiocoffee.net/. I have named this song "Little City Big Sound." 

Outro music is "My Town Yo Town" by Doug Maxwell/Media Right Productions. 

EP 133 | What Is Church Discipline?

In this episode, I provide a brief overview of the practice and process of church discipline. The relevant Biblical texts are Matthew 18:15-17, 1 Corinthians 5:1-13, and 2 Corinthians 2:5-8 (the restoration of a brother who was excommunicated)

There are, of course, many more details to cover and if you have a specific question regarding church discipline, please leave a comment or email me and I will answer it in a future episode. 

 

Intro music is by AudioCoffee(Denys Kyshchuk): https://www.audiocoffee.net/. I have named this song "Small Town Big Sound." 

Outro music is "My Town Yo Town" by Doug Maxwell/Media Right Productions. 

Both songs are used under a Creative Commons license. 

Ep 132 | Whom Should I Marry?

As a pastor, I have been asked this question or a version of it many times throughout my ministry. In this episode, I attempt to answer this question from a Biblical baseline (what does God require?) and also add some pastoral opinions which may help guide you in a more specific manner as you seek to honor God with your life.

Ep 131 | Making Marriage Work (Easier)

Marriage is work...we all know that! But there are habits that you can develop in marriage to make it work easier. 

In this episode, I invite my beautiful bride Meredith to join me and we together, we share four habits that will help you make your marriage work easier. 

Not married? If you're engaged, dating, or even single, these habits are some that you should talk about developing with your significant other or even conversation starters as you seek to begin a new relationship. 

Ep 130 | Should a Christian Attend An LGBTQ "Wedding"?

While this podcast isn't based upon the "reaction and critique" kind of content, an event occurred recently in the conservative evangelical sphere of Christianity which requires comment and clarity. In late January, Pastor Alistair Begg was recorded on a radio program offering advice to a woman who wanted to attend her grandchild's LGBTQ "wedding" ceremony. In his response to her, he suggested she go; his advice caused a great deal of controversy in conservative circles. 

After having listened to the original interview and follow up sermon, this episode is my attempt to offer some brotherly pastoral counsel to Pastor Begg (whom I greatly respect) and some clarity for Christians who may be considering this question from a practical standpoint. 

I attempt to answer the question specifically asked in the title, while also broadening it to other kinds of marriages, to give Christians a framework to think through these matters. Please leave any comments or questions that you have; I'm happy to answer!

Ep 129 | How Should Christians Think About Contraceptives and Birth Control?

As a follow up to episode 125 on "How Many Kids Should I Have?", this episode seeks to answer the question of what methods are morally acceptable for Christians to use in family planning. 

I interview my friend and elder-in-training Andrew Winters to get perspective from a Christian who is well-studied in biology.