𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝘄𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀? 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗽𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲

With the upcoming American election, we dive deep into the key policy differences between Republicans and Democrats and examine them through the lens of biblical wisdom. From voter ID laws and the Green New Deal to issues like late-term abortion and Supreme Court appointments, we’ll explore how faith informs our approach to politics.

What does Scripture say about the policies shaping our world? Whether you’re in the U.S. or abroad, these discussions offer insights that apply globally, encouraging Christians to reflect on how biblical principles can guide our views on governance and justice.

Join us as we seek wisdom and understanding, drawing from Proverbs 2:6: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Let’s explore these timely issues together, ensuring our faith leads us in every area of life, including the political decisions we make.

The post Is the Election Rigged? Why Vote? | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

Can family drama derail God’s perfect plan for your life?

In last week’s episode, “Navigating Family Drama,” we uncovered the tension between Jacob’s wives, Leah and Rachel, and how God remained faithful through it all. Today, we dive into Genesis 31:1-55, where Jacob faces a new challenge—leaving his past behind to return home after 20 years. What does it mean to trust God when the circumstances seem overwhelming? Join us as we explore how God guides Jacob through inner desires, outward circumstances, and His unchanging Word.

In this episode, we discuss the lessons Jacob learned about trusting God’s plan, even when faced with fear and unresolved issues. From dealing with Laban’s deception to understanding the significance of Mizpah, this chapter is packed with insights that resonate with our lives today. How do we discern God’s will? How do we respond to fear and uncertainty? Let’s dive into this incredible journey of faith and see how God’s promises unfold in Jacob’s life—and ours.

Be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for more episodes as we continue walking through the life of Jacob and the lessons God teaches us through his story!

The post How God Leads Us Through Life | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

Can family drama ever lead to something greater in God’s plan?

In this episode, we dive into Genesis 29 and 30, continuing our deep dive into the life of Jacob. After our special one-off episodes, we’re excited to return to Genesis, where Jacob’s family drama takes center stage.

Now married to Leah and Rachel, Jacob faces challenges as his polygamous marriage stirs jealousy, heartache, and competition among the wives. This complex family dynamic becomes even more complicated with the involvement of four different women, leading to the birth of the twelve tribes of Israel.

We’ll explore how God works through Jacob’s family despite the mess and strife, fulfilling His promise of numerous descendants. From Leah’s struggle for affection to Rachel’s prayers being answered, we’ll unpack the biblical significance of parenthood and the divine stewardship of building a family. We’ll also discuss how Jacob’s faith, despite the challenges, brought about God’s blessings.

Join us as we break down Genesis 29:31-35, 30:17-24, and beyond, and draw lessons from Jacob’s journey that still resonate today!

The post Navigating Family Drama | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗱𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗰𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗚𝗼𝗱 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀?

In this week’s episode, we dive deep into the heart of what it means to embrace our calling as Christians. Pete shares his personal experience of almost becoming a permanent missionary in Africa, providing powerful lessons on how God can work through us when we surrender fully to Him.

Together, Christine and Pete explore three essential themes: cultivating true intimacy with God, loving others as Christ loves us, and the importance of making disciples. Drawing wisdom from key scriptures like James 4:8, John 13:34-35, and Ephesians 3:20, they discuss how a deeper relationship with God enables us to live out His love and empower others to do the same.

Pete reflects on the importance of being faithful, available, and teachable—qualities that God seeks in those who follow Him. They also share stories of how God has worked in their lives and the lives of others through simple obedience and trust. Whether you’re seeking to strengthen your walk with Christ or looking to understand how to make a greater impact for the Kingdom, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement for all believers. Don’t forget to check out last week’s episode on the power of prayer if you missed it.

The post Understanding Our Mission in Christ | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

𝑯𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒓𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓?
𝑫𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒇 𝑮𝒐𝒅 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒐𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒚 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒎 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒐 𝒖𝒏𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅?

In this powerful and thought-provoking video, we unravel the beauty and mystery of prayer—one of the most intimate aspects of our Christian journey.

𝑷𝒓𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓 is so much more than a ritual, it’s a sacred conversation with our Heavenly Father. Through prayer, we are invited to draw near to 𝑮𝒐𝒅, to share our hearts, and to listen for His still, small voice. But many believers wrestle with questions:

1. 𝑾𝒉𝒚 𝒅𝒐 𝒘𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒚?
2. 𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒓𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓?
3. 𝑾𝒉𝒚 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝑮𝒐𝒅 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒎 𝒕𝒐 𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒘𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒚 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓𝒔?
4. 𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒕 𝒎𝒆𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒂𝒄𝒄𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝑮𝒐𝒅’𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍.

In this video, we tackle these questions head-on, grounding our exploration in Scripture. We’ll discuss how prayer isn’t just about getting what we want, but about aligning our hearts with 𝑮𝒐𝒅’s will and deepening our relationship with Him. You’ll discover that prayer is both a privilege and a command, a means to praise, seek, and connect with the one who created you.

We’ll also explore the incredible example 𝑱𝒆𝒔𝒖𝒔 gave us when He prayed—how even the 𝑺𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑮𝒐𝒅 sought the Father’s will through prayer. And if Jesus, who was perfect, needed prayer, how much more do we need it in our daily lives?

Whether you’ve struggled with unanswered prayers or felt distant in your spiritual walk, this message is for you. Together, we’ll learn what it means to pray boldly and faithfully, trusting that 𝑮𝒐𝒅 hears every word, even when His answers don’t come in the way we expect. Let this message inspire you to approach the throne of grace with confidence, knowing that your prayers are powerful and deeply valued by 𝑮𝒐𝒅.

Join us for a journey into the heart of prayer, and discover how this divine conversation can transform your life, renew your faith, and draw you closer to the God who loves you more than you could ever imagine.

The post Why We Pray and What It Means | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

How can Christians balance time with God, community, and discipleship in today’s fast-paced world?

In this week’s episode, we dive into a thought-provoking research study from the Barna Group, exploring whether Christians are too busy for discipleship.

The data shows that while many Christians desire a discipleship lifestyle, a significant 39% aren’t currently engaged in any discipleship relationships. Is it really a lack of time that’s holding them back?

We’ll break down the findings from the Growing Together report, created in collaboration with The Navigators, to uncover who is making time for discipleship and how it impacts their spiritual growth.

From time with others in the Christian community to spending uninterrupted moments with God, we’ll explore how Christians prioritize (or struggle to prioritize) discipleship amidst their busy schedules. Could it be that those who experience true discipleship have found ways to creatively commit their time?

Join us as we unpack these important insights and discuss how believers can reimagine their schedules to pursue spiritual growth and disciple others.

The post Overcoming Barriers to Disciple! | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

Want to know how a podcast is making a global impact for God’s Kingdom?

Welcome to this special episode of the RIOT Podcast! As we mark our 200th episode, we’re reflecting on the incredible journey God has taken us on over the past four years. Sponsored by Be Mission Minded Ministry, this podcast has been a platform to help listeners see the world through God’s eyes.

Today, we’re highlighting how Be Mission Minded’s work, including projects like Forsaken Voices and Natural Discipleship, is advancing God’s Kingdom globally.

We’ll explore Forsaken Voices, which brings hope and support to orphans and abused children, and Natural Discipleship, a ministry training disciples worldwide. We’ll also share our goals for the next 100 episodes and how we plan to grow our impact, from expanding partnerships to translating more resources into new languages.

Join us as we celebrate this milestone and look ahead to what’s next! Find out how you can volunteer, donate, and be part of this mission.

The post Celebrating Milestones | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱?

In this week’s episode, we dive back into the story of 𝗝𝗮𝗰𝗼𝗯 from 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝟮𝟵. Life is never easy, and what we experience often depends on the condition of our hearts. Jacob may have left behind his family troubles, but he couldn’t escape the struggles within himself. This chapter marks the beginning of his 20-year journey filled with trials in the household of his uncle, 𝗟𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗻. Yet, through every challenge, Jacob was being molded by God to fulfill His greater purpose.

We’ll unpack the beautiful and complicated 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗝𝗮𝗰𝗼𝗯 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗹, a story full of passion, patience, and unexpected deception. Jacob’s dedication to working for Rachel’s hand in marriage for seven long years shows the power of love to overcome even the hardest trials. However, when he was tricked into marrying Rachel’s sister, 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗵, we see a powerful example of the truth that we reap what we sow (𝑮𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒔 6:7-8).

Jacob’s story isn’t just a tale from the past—it’s a reflection of our own lives today. The choices we make and the trials we endure are shaping our character and our destiny. 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗝𝗮𝗰𝗼𝗯’𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀, 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗼𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸, 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝗱𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽. Join us as we explore how God uses all things, even our struggles, to bring about His good purposes.

Join us as we journey through Jacob’s seven-year labor of love for Rachel, only to be deceived by his own family. Discover how God can use our toughest trials to shape our future.

The post We Reap What We Sow | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

𝗛𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗮 𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗼𝘂?

In our previous episode, we explored the story of Jacob’s journey to Haran and his encounter with God in a dream, often referred to as “Jacob’s Ladder.” Through this transformative moment, God reaffirmed His covenant with Jacob, reminding us of His faithfulness and presence even in uncertain times. If you missed it, be sure to catch up on the powerful lessons of trust, worship, and God’s enduring promises.

This week, we shift our focus to Paul’s mysterious “thorn in the flesh,” as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 12:7. What exactly was this thorn? Was it a physical ailment, a spiritual battle, or perhaps an emotional struggle? Despite the many theories, Paul’s thorn remains an enigma. However, what we do know is that it was a source of deep pain, a constant reminder of his need for God’s grace. Through this struggle, Paul reveals how God uses even our weaknesses to prevent pride and to perfect His power in us.

Join us as we unpack the purpose behind Paul’s thorn, why he refers to it as a “messenger of Satan,” and how it ultimately strengthened his faith. We’ll explore how God can use our own trials and weaknesses to draw us closer to Him and to demonstrate His strength in our lives. Don’t miss this insightful discussion on the transformative power ofGod’s grace in the midst of our struggles. Watch now and be encouraged in your faith journey!

The post Lessons in Weakness and Strength Understanding Paul’s Thorn Satan’s Harassment and God’s Grace | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

In today’s episode, we dive into 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝟮𝟴, where Jacob comes face to face with 𝗚𝗼𝗱. But first, let’s recap 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝟮𝟳 from Episode 192, 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗙𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘀𝗺. We explored the impact of Isaac and Rebekah’s favoritism, leading to family division and Esau’s resentment towards Jacob.

In this episode, we begin by reading 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝟮𝟳:𝟰𝟲 𝘁𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝟮𝟴:𝟵. Here, we see Rebekah and Isaac working to secure a godly wife for Jacob, ensuring he doesn’t follow Esau’s path. Despite past mistakes, God’s promise to Isaac continues through Jacob. As the narrative unfolds, we discuss Esau’s further defiance by marrying another pagan wife, revealing his disregard for God’s covenant.

Then, we transition to 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝟮𝟴:𝟭𝟬-𝟮𝟮, famously known as “𝗝𝗮𝗰𝗼𝗯’𝘀 𝗟𝗮𝗱𝗱𝗲𝗿.” During Jacob’s journey to Haran, God meets him in a dream, reaffirming His covenant with promises of protection and blessing. This encounter marks a transformative moment for Jacob, reminding us all that God is with us, even in uncertain times.

Join us as we explore how Jacob, once a deceiver, is now being shaped by God to walk by faith. We also dive into the lessons of trust, worship, and the enduring promise that God will never leave us.

The post A Journey of Faith God will never Leave You! | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

Are you looking for a ministry that will help grow your relationship with God?

Are you seeking true freedom from the hurts, addictions, and hang-ups that hold you back? In this video, we dive into Pete Robertson’s transformative book, “Keys to Being Set Free,” a powerful discipleship curriculum designed to help you break free and experience genuine spiritual growth.

Join us for an insightful Q&A session where we explore the key themes of the book and how it can guide you on a journey towards lasting change and restoration. Whether your spiritual journey has become stagnant, or you’re yearning for a life of authentic freedom, this book offers biblically grounded principles and practical wisdom to help you align your life with God’s word.

Discover how “Keys to Being Set Free” can not only transform your own life but also equip you to lead others through the same journey. Don’t miss this chance to unlock the door to a life of freedom and restoration.

Get your copy of “Keys to Being Set Free” today!

The post Keys To Being Set Free | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

In today’s episode, inspired by the impactful display at the Olympics’ opening ceremony, we delve into the themes of globalization and its widespread influence. From a Christian viewpoint, we explore globalization and Marxism through a biblical lens, providing scriptural context to the Olympic ceremony with insights from Psalms 2.

We’ll discuss current global events from a worldly perspective by reading Psalms 2:1-3, examine God’s thoughts on the world’s rebellion in Psalms 2:4-5, and see how Jesus views today’s events in Psalms 2:6-9. We’ll also discuss the Holy Spirit’s counsel to world leaders in Psalms 2:10-12 and define globalization, using historical examples like the Assyrian Empire and the Tower of Babel.

Additionally, we’ll examine Daniel 2 and the prophetic revelation of future world empires, discuss Marxism’s potential connection to globalization, and contrast Marxist principles with Christian beliefs. Join us as we explore these profound topics at the intersection of faith, politics, and global events.

The post Spiritual Battle Against Globalization | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

In this episode, we address the contentious claim that one cannot be both a Christian and a Democrat. We’ll delve into how the Bible speaks to this issue, examining key differences between Democrats and Republicans and assessing their policies from a spiritual perspective.

We’ll begin by discussing President Biden’s recent letter highlighting his achievements in office. From economic growth to healthcare improvements and climate legislation, we’ll analyze these statements through a biblical lens, exploring what the Bible says about economic systems, governmental roles, social services, and more.

Join us as we navigate these complex topics, including the Bible’s stance on significant issues like abortion and gay marriage, and how Christians should approach political candidates and policies. We’ll emphasize the importance of biblical morality, respect for authority, and maintaining a heavenly perspective in political matters. Through thoughtful discussion and scripture-based insights, we’ll explore how Christians can faithfully engage in the political landscape without compromising their beliefs.

If you’re wrestling with how to reconcile your faith with your political views, this episode is for you. Let’s seek to understand and apply God’s Word in every area of our lives, including our civic duties and political choices.

The post Is God a Republican? Differences in Policies | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

In this episode, we delve into Joseph Byamukama’s thought-provoking article, “Pilgrim Politics,” from the Gospel Coalition. Byamukama explores how Christians should navigate the political landscape, emphasizing the distinction between “pilgrims” and “earth-dwellers.” We begin with Byamukama’s powerful assertion that politics, like gravity, can divide even the closest relationships and diminish the significance of our shared faith in Christ. He calls Christians to engage in politics as pilgrims, journeying through life with a heavenly perspective.

We discuss the comparison between pilgrims and earth-dwellers, where pilgrims are described as nomads who resist the pull to settle permanently, instead living as citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20-21). Earth-dwellers, in contrast, focus on temporal things and mock those whose hopes transcend the transient. Byamukama warns that those who live for politics are consumed by it, as this life is all they have, leading them to worship earthly politics and power.

The conversation shifts to how Christians should engage in politics with discernment, recognizing the limits of earthly power and the human heart’s corruptibility. We also discuss the importance of not worshiping politics and how political disappointments or victories reveal our true allegiances. Byamukama advises Christians to engage prophetically, holding leaders accountable while infusing transcendence into politics.

We explore the role of Christians as witnesses to God’s impending judgment, emphasizing the need to warn earth-dwellers of the coming woes, regardless of their political affiliations. Byamukama urges Christians to prioritize their unity in Christ over political commitments, reminding us that our ultimate allegiance lies with God’s family and vision for the world.

Join us for an insightful discussion on how to navigate the political sphere as Christian pilgrims, staying true to our heavenly citizenship while engaging thoughtfully and prophetically in earthly matters.

The post A Christian Approach to Political Engagement | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

Last week, on “Breaking Free from Lying: God’s Covenant,” we explored how Isaac lied to King Abimelech out of fear, following his father’s example. We delved into the nature of lying and provided valuable advice on breaking free from deceit. Additionally, we examined the significance of God’s covenants. It was a powerful episode, and we highly recommend listening to it if you missed it.

This week, we shift our focus to Genesis 27, where Isaac, now old and blind, witnesses his family falling apart. Why is there internal family conflict despite God’s blessing on Isaac’s life? We will explore how the family substituted scheming for believing. We’ll unpack Isaac’s role and examine each family member’s contributions to the problem or solution.

Join us for an insightful discussion and let’s start by reading Genesis 27:1-4.

The post The Fallout of Favoritism Genesis 27 | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

Join us for a powerful episode of “𝗙𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗵, 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗼𝗺, 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀”. In this episode, we embarked on an exploration guided by the powerful scriptures of 𝟮 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝟳:𝟭𝟰 and 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗵 𝟰:𝟰. These verses remind us of God’s promise to heal our land if we humble ourselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from our wicked ways.

During our discussion, we were profoundly moved by Governor Bill Lee’s proclamation from Tennessee, urging our nation to dedicate July to prayer and fasting. This proclamation resonated deeply with our hearts as we considered its implications for our personal lives and the broader community.

In this episode, we reflected on the significance of national repentance and the call to seek God’s guidance and forgiveness. We explored how these principles align with biblical teachings on humility, restoration, and the transformative power of prayer. Our conversation unfolded naturally, offering insights into how these ancient truths speak to our contemporary challenges and aspirations.

Join us as we delve into these profound scriptures and Governor Bill Lee’s heartfelt call to action. Discover with us the hope and healing that faith and forgiveness can bring to our lives and our nation. This episode is not just an invitation to listen but a catalyst for personal and communal spiritual renewal.

We invite you to subscribe, like, and share this episode to spread the message of hope, unity, and faith in Christ. Let’s join together in prayer and fasting, believing in God’s grace and mercy to bring about transformation in our hearts, our communities, and our nation.

The post Faith, Freedom, Forgiveness | RIOT Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

In last week’s episode, we had a thought-provoking discussion on how Christians should approach their work. If you missed it, make sure to check it out. Two weeks ago, we explored Genesis 24 and the beautiful love story of Isaac and Rebekah. Although you might expect us to cover Chapter 25 this week, we’re actually jumping ahead to Genesis 26.

In Genesis 25, several significant events take place: Abraham marries Keturah, ensures his children with concubines receive gifts and are sent away, and secures Isaac as the rightful heir. Isaac inherits Abraham’s wealth and the covenant blessing from God. The chapter concludes with Abraham’s death at 175 and a summary of his genealogy.

Now, let’s dive into Genesis 26, where we see Isaac repeating a mistake his father made—lying about his wife Rebekah out of fear. We’ll read verses 1-11 and discuss the lessons from this chapter.

True faith is always tested, either by temptations within or trials around us, as stated in James 1:1-18. God tests us to bring out the best, while Satan tempts us to bring out the worst. Each generation faces similar tests, revealing that human nature doesn’t change.

Isaac faced a famine and, like his father Abraham, was tempted to leave the land God promised. Instead, God told him to stay, promising blessings and protection. Isaac’s journey and struggles remind us that faith involves trusting God’s promises, even when tempted to rely on our own solutions.

In verses 7-11, we see Isaac lying about Rebekah being his sister, fearing for his life. This act of deception highlights his struggle with faith. Despite this, God blessed Isaac because of His covenant with Abraham, just as He blesses us through Jesus Christ.

We’ll also explore the concept of the New Covenant, predicted by prophets like Jeremiah and fulfilled by Jesus. This covenant brings forgiveness, a changed heart, and a direct relationship with God.

Join us as we unpack Genesis 26 further and discuss how Isaac’s experiences and the New Covenant shape our understanding of faith, obedience, and God’s unwavering promises.

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Welcome back to our channel! In our last episode, we explored Genesis 24 and the love story of Rebecca and Isaac, highlighting God’s miracles and parallels to His relationship with His Son. If you missed it, be sure to check it out.

Today, we return to Genesis, focusing on chapters 1 and 3, to discuss the significance of work and how Christians should approach it. We’ll contrast Bob Black’s 1985 essay, “The Abolition of Work,” with the Bible’s teachings on the value and purpose of work.

Work originates from God’s creation. God worked for six days and rested on the seventh, showing that work is inherently good. Genesis 1:31 emphasizes that God viewed His work as “very good,” suggesting that productive work is honorable and satisfying. Christians are called to glorify God through their work, reflecting His righteousness and excellence.

Despite the Fall introducing toil and struggle, work remains good, and man is called to labor diligently. While work can bring satisfaction, ultimate meaning comes from God. The Bible emphasizes a welfare system based on work and condemns laziness. Paul’s teachings stress the importance of providing for one’s family and contributing to the community. Christians should work heartily as for the Lord, transforming work into an act of worship and gratitude. The Sabbath, instituted by God, highlights the importance of rest and a balanced life.

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In last week’s episode, we re-aired one of our most popular shows, “Why Men and Women Struggle with Sexual Sin.” If you missed it, I highly recommend going back for an insightful discussion.

Two weeks ago, we explored Genesis 22 in “The Testing of Our Faith,” delving into Abraham’s trial of faith with Isaac. It was a powerful episode on trusting God through trials.

This week, we focus on Genesis 24, the longest chapter in Genesis, telling the story of Isaac and Rebekah’s marriage. We’ll explore why this chapter, which at first seems about finding a spouse, holds deep theological significance.

Join us as we uncover how this story mirrors the relationship between Christ and His church, emphasizing God’s plan for His people and the glory it brings to Him. Don’t miss this enriching discussion on faith and divine providence!

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Welcome to today’s episode! In today’s world, we are bombarded with sexual imagery everywhere we turn. Sexual immorality isn’t just blatant; it’s subtle too, lurking in magazines, TV shows, movies, and even in church settings. This overwhelming presence can distract even the most dedicated minds.

The Struggle: Often, topics like lust, sex, and pornography are associated mainly with men. However, studies show that sexual temptation and addiction affect women as well. Shockingly, 2 out of 4 women in the church face these struggles, with 90% of women surveyed experiencing daily sexual temptations.

Women’s Testimony: Women often find emotional intimacy and sensuality more tempting than physical nudity. Shame and secrecy can compound these struggles, making it hard to seek help. By opening up to counselors and supportive friends, many have found freedom and healing through honesty and faith.

Discussion Points:
The shame Christians feel regarding sexual sin.
The surprising prevalence of sexual struggles among women.
Practical steps to find accountability and support.
Identifying triggers and learning to walk in the Spirit.

Hope and Healing: Our goal is to help answer two crucial questions: “Why do I constantly fall to sexual temptation?” and “What is going wrong?” We’ll explore key areas that contribute to these struggles and provide biblical guidance for overcoming them. Remember, even when we fall, perseverance and faithfulness are key. God is always ready to help us find a way of escape.

Dive deep into understanding and overcoming sexual sin in this eye-opening discussion. Let’s find freedom together in Christ.

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Welcome to today’s episode where we dive deep into 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝟮𝟮, exploring the profound lessons of faith through the life of Abraham. At 75, Abraham began his journey of faith, and even past 100, his experiences continue to stretch his soul. This chapter reveals the greatest test Abraham ever faced, showcasing obedient faith amid life’s trials.

We’ll discuss key moments from Abraham’s life, highlighting his many tests: from leaving his family to the heart-wrenching farewell to Ishmael. We will learn to distinguish between trials and temptations, understand the purpose of God’s tests, and see how faith relies on promises, not explanations.

Join us as we read and unpack 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝟮𝟮:𝟭-𝟮𝟬, discovering how Abraham’s unwavering faith teaches us to trust in God’s provision and timing, even when it seems impossible.

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In this episode, we explore Genesis 21, delving into the story of Isaac and Ishmael and the profound lessons it offers on faith and family dynamics.

We’ll begin with Genesis 21:1-7, where we see Sarah’s journey from childlessness to the joy of Isaac’s birth, showcasing God’s faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. Isaac’s birth, after 25 years of waiting, highlights the importance of patience and faith in God’s timing.

We discuss how Isaac’s miraculous birth reveals God’s power and the significance of faith. The conflict between Ishmael (flesh) and Isaac (spirit) illustrates the ongoing battle between our old and new natures. Isaac’s weaning symbolizes spiritual growth, emphasizing the need for believers to mature in their faith.

The freedom Isaac represents contrasts with Ishmael’s bondage, underscoring the liberty we have in Christ. Living under grace, not the law, is essential for embracing God’s promises. Despite their departure, God’s provision for Hagar and Ishmael reaffirms His faithfulness.

Join us as we unpack these spiritual insights and learn how to navigate our own faith journeys with patience, trust, and a deeper understanding of God’s grace.

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Today’s episode is particularly close to our hearts, as it’s one that speaks to the unshakeable human spirit. We’ve titled today’s show “Overcoming Adversity.”

Today, Pete, Christine and I will talk about their remarkable story of their month-and-a-half-long odyssey across the vibrant landscapes of Europe. It’s a journey interwoven with challenges and triumphs, the kind that reminds us of the resilience etched within each of us. They encountered various obstacles, yet they pressed on, fortified by something greater than themselves – their faith.

With the grace that comes from above and an unwavering ability to view each moment from God’s perspective, Pete and Christine’s story is more than just a travelogue; it’s a testament to enduring hope amid adversity. Prepare to embark on a narrative journey that celebrates perseverance, faith, and the extraordinary lessons learned when the road gets rough but the travelers keep pressing forward.

One of the unfortunate byproducts of living in a sinful, fallen world is that every person, Christian or not, experiences pain and suffering and disappointment in this life. From failed relationships to unfulfilled dreams, life can be filled with sorrow and disappointment. In fact, Jesus assured us of it: “In this world you will have trouble” (John 16:33). No one is immune.

It is during the difficult times that we learn to rely on God and experience firsthand the absolute trustworthiness of His Word. We also learn the truth of what Paul taught: God’s power is at its strongest when we are at our weakest (2 Corinthians 12:9). As A. W. Tozer observed, “If the truth were known, the saints of God in every age were only effective after they had been wounded.”

It is our faith that allows us to see the unseen. That’s why faith is such an indispensable element of the Christian life. Scripture teaches that we live by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7) and that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). We know that, as followers of Christ, we will experience disappointment and endure trials where our faith is indeed put to the test. And the apostle James tells us we should “consider it pure joy” when we face these trials, as this is how our faith strengthens and we mature as Christians (James 1:2-4).

Our faith also helps us remember the absolute sovereignty of God. Everything occurs either by His prescription or permission and in perfect accordance with His sovereign purposes and unfathomable ways (Romans 11:33). Prayer is the ultimate acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty. In the midst of our trial and disappointments, prayer gives us strength. It did for Moses (Exodus 32:11; Numbers 14:13; 20:6), David (Psalm 55:16-17), and Daniel (Daniel 6:10; 9:20-23). And before our Savior took on the sins of the world, He spent His final night in prayer (Matthew 27:36-44; John 17). Now He invites the “weary and burdened” to come to Him, and He will give us rest (Matthew 11:28).

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Our Show title today is “The real reason why demons hate us?” But before we can answer that we must build some context as to why that is. As we all know, God has a plan for every nation on this earth. In addition, He has a plan for every man, woman, and child on this planet too.

By comparison, Satan has an agenda as well. He has an intricate plan for every nation and every person, and it’s to steal, kill and destroy. There is a larger picture at hand than most people do not realize; this battle is invisible and it is happening all around us. Our goal in today’s podcast is to clarify this larger picture as well as uncover why Christians are being spiritually attacked and what to do to counter it.

The reason why demons hate us has to do with the larger picture at hand and that is that there is a battle for geographical territory. What? We will explain more of this, but before we read Gen 11:1-9 that explains this, let’s remember what God intended for His creation from the beginning.

Before the fall of Adam (being removed from the Garden of Eden), God made our planet (earth) as a way to fellowship with His creation for all eternity. Sin is what separated man from God because after all, God is Holy. All of the creation changed after that and God went to plan B. As we read throughout the whole Old Testament, Plan B has always pointed people to Jesus as the redeemer to Adam’s original sin.

Due to this sin, something happened that caused God to reject mankind. It started in Gen 6:1-4, then Noah’s flood, then the fulfillment of this turning with the Tower of Babel.

Read Genesis 11:1-9

Yahweh in effect decided that the people of the world’s nations were no longer going to be in a relationship with him. He would need to begin anew. He would then Call Abraham in Gen 12 and enter into a covenant relationship with a new people that did not yet exist: Israel.

After the call of Abraham, we now start seeing the word “gentiles” show up in scripture. Gal 3:7-9 “Therefore know that only those who are of faith are sons of Abraham. And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying, “In you, all the nations shall be blessed.” So then those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham”.

Read Zech 14:9

So we go back to our question, “why do demons hate Christians?” It’s because we are now on a mission with Jesus to take back the territory that God has redeemed as rightfully His. Let’s break this down further.

Read 2 Cor 4:4
Read Ephesians 6:12
Read Mathew 4:8
Read Mathew 28:19
Read Acts 1:8

So now we understand the larger picture in context. Satan does not want Christians to share God’s good news with other people. He will do everything in His power to stop you. So how do we respond to Satan when He attacks? We in the same way that Jesus did, we tell him to get behind us!

Read Mathew 16:23
Read 1 Peter 5:8
Read Romans 16:20
Read Matthew 24:14
Read Mathew 25:41

Spiritual Warfare happens to Christians that are on a mission with Jesus to take back land from Satan. If we are not on a mission for Jesus then why would Satan care about attacking us? He wouldn’t, but for those that are on a mission for Jesus, there are different levels of attack.

For those that are not fully committed to God’s mission, all Satan has to do is send simple temptations our way to distract you. If he can get you focusing on your problems, wants, and desires, then he wins.

But For those that have surrendered all of their lives to Jesus’ mission, then Satan will do everything to destroy you. He will bring as much pain to your life as we allow Him to. Remember, make no mistake that Satan knows your playbook backward and forwards. He knows the temptations and weaknesses we have and WILL USE THEM.

However, we do not need to fear him, as we know Jesus has overcome everything Satan has and won.

Read John 16:33

We must understand God is for us and it is Satan that is against us. God wants us to be on a mission with him in everything that we do. He will always give us the tools necessary to accomplish His perfect will in our lives. We must tell Satan to get behind us and know that Greater is He that is in us, than He that is in the world.

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“Divine appointment” refers to the belief that certain events or encounters are preordained by a higher power or destiny. In many religious and spiritual contexts, it suggests that moments in a person’s life are not merely random, but are instead orchestrated by the divine to fulfill a greater purpose or plan. This concept is often associated with a sense of providence or guidance, encouraging individuals to seek meaning and significance in their life experiences, trusting in the alignment between their path and a greater cosmic will.

When someone speaks of a divine appointment, he or she is likely referring to an extraordinary event in a believer’s life or a significant spiritual encounter with another person. The timing, purpose, and outcome of the experience seem to be orchestrated by God rather than simply random chance or coincidence.

In Acts 8:26–40, Philip experiences an undeniable divine appointment when an angel of the Lord sends him to share the gospel with an Ethiopian eunuch who just happens to be reading Isaiah’s prophecy about the coming Messiah.

In Acts 12:6–11, Peter suddenly realizes that his dream of escaping from prison has, in reality, just happened (Acts 12:11). Frequently, hours, days, and sometimes even years go by before we finally grasp in amazement that God has been working in our past, delivering us from evil, through various divine appointments.

God is always working to bring about His sovereign purposes in our lives: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. (Romans 8:28–30, ESV).

We also know that God is always close to us Psalm 139:7–12, says “Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me. If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light about me be night,” even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you.”

We must avoid becoming overly preoccupied with dramatic divine appointments, looking for them at every turn. Our sinful nature may be tempted to seek signs and confirmations from people who make us feel especially loved by God and significant in His kingdom. Plenty of charlatans and even heretics will say whatever our “itching ears want to hear,” but it won’t be the truth (2 Timothy 4:3–4).

Like Joseph passing through his difficult ordeal, we may not always detect God’s behind-the-scenes activity in our lives. But all Christians can be sure that, in every moment of every day, God is working “out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” (Ephesians 1:11).

The most crucial divine appointment of our lives is that glorious day we encounter Jesus Christ. It is the moment when we respond to God’s voice calling us to come to Him, repent of our sins, and be saved (John 6:44; Hebrews 3:8). Like the woman who encounters Jesus at the well, we surrender our lives to Him and drink from God’s eternal fountain of living water (John 4:7–38). From then on, we abide in Jesus, remaining in Him and bearing much fruit (John 15:5).

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This week’s show, we will read Genesis 20. Here, we will see that Abraham and Sarah are moving, and as with all moves, when you come into a new area, you meet new neighbors. Today, we will be introduced to Abraham’s new neighbor, the King of Gerar, named Abimelech.

In a complete shift from the last week’s show, this week we see Abraham acting out of fear of his new neighbor and operating in a way influenced by his flesh, rather than his spirit. He takes control of his life by telling Abimelech that his wife Sarah is his sister. Abimelech then takes Sarah to be his wife, and God has to intervene once again to protect Abraham.

Neighbors can be a great source of blessings and can sometimes become even closer to us than some of our own relatives. Proverbs 27:10 states, “Better is a neighbor nearby than a brother far away.” However, neighbors can also be a source of problems, whether they are believers or unbelievers. In fact, at times we ourselves can be a difficult neighbor. In today’s show, we see Abraham dealing with his neighbor as a troublemaker.

Let’s read Genesis 20

If you did not know who Abraham was and you read this chapter for the first time, which of the two men would you say was the believer? Surely not Abraham, the liar! It was not Abraham who showed integrity, and it was not Abraham whom God kept from sinning. What Abraham did was selfish, but Abimelech responded with generosity.

If this chapter was talking about our lives, it would be an embarrassment to us. But the Bible tells the truth about all people, and that includes God’s people. For example, it did not hide the fact that Noah got drunk and exposed himself in Gen 9. Or that Moses lost his temper and killed someone in Num 20. It definitely didn’t hold back in exposing David with his affair and murder cover up. Nor Peter in his denial of Jesus. Why do you think the bible allows these shortcomings to be written down?

So why do you think Abraham sinned?

This leads me to a second question. Why did Abraham move in the first place? Perhaps it was the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah that caused Abraham to want to move, but whatever his motive was, we now know the decision was not a wise one.

It is almost like Abraham forgot that God was the “Almighty God” that we studied back in Gen 17 and that God gave Abraham a covenant to bless him and Sarah.

A lighthearted admission of sin is not the same as a brokenhearted confession of sin. If our attitude is right, we will hate our sins, loathe ourselves for having sinned, and despise the very memory of our sins.

Abimelech was a man of integrity, and when God spoke to him, he obeyed. He had many fine qualities, but he was not a believer, and therefore he was a dead man according to Eph 2:1-3 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins. in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind”

When believers sin, they suffer. Charles Spurgeon said, “God does not allow His children to sin successfully. When we deliberately disobey God, we suffer both from the consequences of our sins and from the chastening hand of God, unless we repent and submit.”

Heb 12:5-11 says “And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons?

“My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”

It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, so that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

It took only a few seconds for Abraham to tell a lie, but that lie was more than just words. That lie became a seed that was planted and grew and brought forth bitter fruit.

So, what did this one lie cost Abraham?

I can only imagine how humiliated Abraham must have felt when Abimelech called him in, confronted him, and rebuked him. It is hard enough to submit to the rebuke of a Christian brother or sister, but to accept rebuke from an unsaved person demands a great deal of honesty and humility.

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Sex before marriage is a complex and multifaceted topic that touches on cultural, religious, personal, and ethical beliefs. Throughout history and across societies, attitudes towards premarital sex have varied greatly. Some view it as a normal part of relationships and personal development, while others believe in abstinence until marriage for moral, religious, or cultural reasons. The debate around this issue often centers on values related to family structure, individual freedom, and the implications for societal health and personal well-being.

Because we adhere to the Christian worldview, we will only discuss this topic in relation to what is taught in the Bible. Today, we are going to address this hot topic, since it is so relevant with where our world is today.

There are, in general, two contexts for premarital sex. There is the “we love each other and are committed to each other, but just don’t want to wait to be married” sexual relationship, and there’s “casual sex.” The former is often rationalized with the idea that the couple will surely marry, so there’s no sin in engaging in marital relations now, what are your thoughts on this?

Casual sex is rampant in many societies including ours here in the United States. There is, in truth, no such thing as “casual” sex, because of the depth of intimacy involved in the sexual relationship. An analogy is instructive here. If we glue one object to another, it will adhere. If we remove it, it will leave behind a small amount of residue; the longer it remains, the more residue is left. If we take that glued object and stick it to several places repeatedly, it will leave residue everywhere we stick it, and it will eventually lose its ability to adhere to anything. This is much like what happens to us when we engage in “casual” sex.

The Bible clearly condemns sexual sins: adultery (consensual sex between a married person and someone other than his or her spouse) (Proverbs 6:32; cf. 1 Corinthians 6:18 and Hebrews 13:4) and fornication (sexual immorality in general) are specified (Matthew 15:19; Romans 1:29; 1 Corinthians 5:1). But Sex before marriage, or premarital sex, is not addressed in that exact term, but it does fall within the scope of sexual immorality, right?

Another verse that presents sex before marriage as immoral is Hebrews 13:4, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.” Here, we have both adultery and fornication contrasted with what happens in the marriage bed. Marriage (and sexual intercourse within marriage) is honorable; all other types of sexual activity are condemned as immoral and bring God’s judgment.

We know God designed sex, and the Bible honors marriage. Part of honoring marriage is the Bible’s promotion of complete abstinence before marriage. When two unmarried people engage in sexual intercourse, they are defiling God’s good gift of sex. Before marriage, a couple has no binding union, and they’ve entered no sacred covenant; without the marriage vows, they have no right to exploit the culmination of such vows.

While practicality does not determine right from wrong, following the Bible’s instructions concerning sex before marriage would greatly benefit society. If the Bible’s message on sex before marriage were obeyed, there would be far fewer sexually transmitted diseases, far fewer abortions, far fewer unwed mothers and unwanted pregnancies, and far fewer children growing up without both parents in their lives.

So, is there hope? So, if a Christian engages in premarital sex, or when one who has lost his/her virginity comes to Christ, the Holy Spirit will convict of the sin, and there will be grief over it. However, it’s important—even vital—to remember that there is no sin beyond the reach of the blood of Jesus. If we confess, He will not only forgive, but will cleanse us from “all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

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In last week’s episode, we explored Genesis 18,reflecting on Abraham’s unique relationship with God, highlighted by his title as a ‘friend of God’. We dug into the remarkable encounter where Abraham hosted three heavenly visitors, among them a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus. They reaffirmed the promised son to Abraham, emphasizing God’s covenant. The discussion also turned somber as they revealed the impending judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah due to rampant sinfulness. Abraham intercede, negotiating for the cities’ salvation if ten righteous individuals could be found. Regrettably, only Lot and his immediate family were righteous.

We now continue the narrative with Genesis 19, resuming the story at a critical juncture. This chapter records the sad consequences of Lot’s spiritual decline. Abraham was the friend of God, but Lot was the friend of the world, and the contrast of these two men are easy to see.

Let’s Read Genesis 19:1

In the first verse, we see Lot sitting at the gate of a wicked city. We know that Abraham was a pilgrim and a stranger, merely passing through this world. However, Lot had slowly left his tent behind and made a permanent home in Sodom. In Genesis 14 through 16, we can observe this gradual transition. Initially, it mentions that he gazed towards Sodom and set up his tent. Eventually, he moved closer to Sodom, and now we witness him residing within the city. It is important to note that it is mentioned that Lot was at the city gate. This is significant right?

Another observation about vs 1 is it was early afternoon when the Lord and His angels visited Abraham, but it was evening when the angels entered Sodom. Abraham was walking in the light, while Lot was walking in darkness.

Let’s Read Genesis 19:2-11

Lot called himself a servant, but you do not see him hastening to prepare a meal as Abraham did, nor did he stand by to see what further service he could render. But the arrival of the men of the city at the door for immoral purposes was the climax of the evening. Basically, it’s saying “Bring them out so we can have sex with them.”

Let’s Read Genesis 19:12-14

God’s message to Abraham was a joyful one. He and Sarah would have the promised son within a year. But the message to Lot was frightening. God was going to destroy Sodom and everything in it.

In vs 14, we see that Abraham’s faith and obedience was a blessing to his home and to the whole world. But because of Lot’s worldliness, Lot had no spiritual influence either in the city or in his own home.

Let’s Read Genesis 19:15-26

The first time God rescued Lot, he was a prisoner of war, and he went right back into Sodom. That painful experience should have warned him that he was out of the will of God, but if Lot heard the warning, he certainly did not heed it.

Let’s Read Genesis 19:27-38

Now we see the consequences. The result of the Lord’s visit to Abraham was new hope and excitement as Abraham and Sarah joyfully anticipated the birth of a son. Lot, however lost everything when Sodom was destroyed, and he, himself was saved, yet so as by fire. His daughters gave birth to two sons, whose descendants would be enemies to the Jewish nation. Abraham saw the cities of the plain destroyed and knew that God had not found 10 righteous people.

Let’s end our discussion on a high note. This passage shows us that Jesus is a friend of sinners. While it is true that the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is an example of God’s righteous judgment, it is also true that God’s love for lost sinners is clearly seen in this story.

Let’s break down God’s love for wicked cities. To begin with, He was longsuffering toward them as he beheld their sin. Just as Abel’s blood cried out to God from the ground, so the sins of the people cried out from the wicked cities. God is long suffering and holds back His judgment so that sinners will have time to repent. 2 Peter 3:1-9

The most amazing thing is that Jesus died for the sinners in Sodom and Gomorrah. 1 Peter 3:18 says “For Christ also has suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God. Christ did not die for good people, because there are none good. He died for the same sins as the people of Sodom and Gomorrah, but we are sinners just the same, and apart from faith in Jesus, we cannot be saved from the judgment to come.

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In our last show before we did our AI shows, we covered Genesis 17. We witnessed the profound moment when God forged an everlasting covenant with Abraham, marked by the sign of circumcision and the remarkable vow to make him the Father of many nations, with a son yet to be born. We marveled at Abraham and Sarah’s advanced ages, pondering the sheer impossibility of birth at such a stage in life.

Today, we will look further into this story in Genesis 18, where we will continue to explore the suspenseful anticipation of Abraham and Sarah’s promised offspring. We’ll see today an extraordinary visitation by three angelic messengers who reaffirmed the promise of a son, igniting hope against all odds. Furthermore, we’ll begin to unveil the dire narrative of Sodom and Gomorrah, setting the stage for the divine intervention that would lead to their ultimate destruction.

Today, we will only read Genesis 18, but Genesis 19 is closely connected to Genesis 18. There are three main characters that we will focus on in these two chapters. In Genesis 18, we will focus on Abraham, and next week in Genesis 19, we will focus on Lot and Jesus. Each of these men stood between Sodom and Gomorrah and the complete destruction. We will explore this further as we continue reading.

Let’s Read Genesis 18:1-8

All ministry must first be to the Lord, for if we fail to be a blessing to the Lord, we will never be a blessing to others. Colossians 3:23-24 says “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, for you serve the Lord.”

In vs 2 it says Abraham ran to meet them and hastened Sarah to bake some bread in vs 6. He personally ran to get a tender calf and saw to it that the young man hastened to dress the meat in vs 7 and in vs 8 it says only after he had served his guests that Abraham stood still. What can we learn from this example?

Let’s read vs 9-15 and witness how Abraham ministered to his wife

Because Abraham was faithful to the Lord, he became a channel of blessing to his wife and eventually to his family. Sarah had an important role to play in the working out God’s plan of salvation for the world, and she did her part as it says in Heb 11:11. She was 89 years old and in Gen 20 it says she is still a desirable woman with charm and beauty. Abraham loved his wife like the princess that she was.
The husband who ministers to the Lord will find himself ministering to the members of his own family, especially his wife. He will be the source of blessing for his family.

Let’s read 16-33

Abraham belonged to that select company of God’s people known as intercessors, individuals like Moses, Samuel, Elijah, Jeremiah, the apostles and Jesus Himself. In fact, Jesus’ ministry to us today is as an intercessor, Romans 8:34.

In vs 16, 22 we see The Lord and 2 Angels leaving Abraham’s camp and started moving towards Sodom, but we noticed the Lord lingered while the angels went on before Him. Why do you think that is?

An intercessor must know the Lord personally and be obedient to His will. He must be close enough to the Lord to learn His secrets and know what to pray about.

Abraham’s prayer was based not on the mercy of God, but on the justice of God. Vs 25 “Shall not the judge of all the earth do right?” A just and holy God could not destroy righteous believers with wicked unbelievers, and Lot was a believer, even though his actions and words seemed to contradict the fact.

But why would Abraham want God to spare such wicked people? Shouldn’t he wanted to wipe them off the face of the earth?

We must not get the idea that Abraham argued with the Lord, because he did not. He was very humble before the Lord as he presented his case.

The post The Covenant, The Promise, and The Intercession | Riot Podcast Ep 178 | Christian Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

This discussion dives into the biblical figure of Melchizedek, who appears suddenly and mysteriously in the book of Genesis. The passage explores Melchizedek’s meeting with Abraham after Abraham’s victory in battle. Melchizedek’s name means “king of righteousness,” and he served as both king of Salem (Jerusalem) and priest of the Most High God.

The discussion highlights the obscurity surrounding Melchizedek, noting his brief appearance and lack of backstory in Genesis. Abraham’s act of giving Melchizedek a tithe (a tenth of all he had gathered) suggests that Abraham recognized Melchizedek’s superior spiritual rank.

The possibility of Melchizedek being a pre-incarnate Jesus Christ, or a Christophany, is explored. The episode in Genesis 14 is compared to Abraham’s later encounter with the Lord (Yahweh) who appeared as a man in Genesis 17-18.

The book of Hebrews is cited to discuss the concept of Melchizedek’s priesthood and how it relates to Jesus Christ. The text suggests that Melchizedek’s priesthood is a type of Christ’s priesthood, foreshadowing Jesus’ ministry. The possibility that Melchizedek himself was actually Jesus is also presented.

The discussion contrasts the Christian and Mormon views on Melchizedek. In Christianity, Melchizedek is seen as a type of Christ, and his priesthood is understood to be unique to Christ. Mormons, on the other hand, believe that the Melchizedek priesthood is a distinct office that was restored through Joseph Smith and can be held by worthy men in the Mormon Church.

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The post 𝐔𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐤 𝐌𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐲 | Riot Podcast Ep 177 | Christian Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

In Today’s show the guys talk about an article written about AI and Antichrist.

This article discusses a Christian perspective on the potential dangers of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it relates to the biblical figure of the Antichrist. The author, Mark Blitz, argues that AI could be used to create a super-intelligent being with malicious intent, which could deceive and control humanity.

It cites several examples of how AI is already being used in ways that raise concerns, such as facial recognition technology and social media manipulation. It also discusses the possibility of AI becoming so advanced that it surpasses human intelligence and poses an existential threat.

The end of the show concludes with a message of hope and encouragement for Christians. The author advises readers to trust in God and follow his teachings in order to be prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.

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The post Could AI Be The Anti Christ | Riot Podcast Ep 176 | Christian Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

This topic is about a conference that discussed the implications of 𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 (𝐀𝐈) 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐡. The speakers were Kristen Davis, Jay Richards, and Jeff Zweerink.

Kristen Davis spoke about the three types of artificial intelligence: narrow AI, general AI, and super intelligence. Narrow AI is what we have today, and it is good at performing specific tasks. General AI and super intelligence do not exist yet, and they may never exist. Davis argued that even if general AI or super intelligence were created, it would not disprove the existence of God.

Jay Richards spoke about the impact of AI on the world of work. He argued that AI will create new jobs as it eliminates old ones. He also argued that AI is not a threat to humanity.

Jeff Zweerink spoke about the impact of AI on life itself. He argued that AI is a powerful tool that can be used for good or evil. He also argued that Christianity provides the only worldview that will foster the good and minimize the harm of AI.

The speakers also discussed the question of whether AI can be moral. They concluded that AI cannot be moral because it is not conscious.

In conclusion, the conference speakers offered a balanced perspective on AI. They recognized the potential benefits and drawbacks of AI, but overall they expressed a cautiously optimistic outlook. They believe that AI has the potential to be a powerful tool for making our lives better, but they also emphasized the importance of developing and using AI in a responsible and ethical manner.

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The post AI And The Christian Faith | Riot Podcast Ep 175 | Christian Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

This topic explores the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through a Christian lens. It acknowledges the excitement surrounding this new technology while also addressing potential anxieties and ethical considerations. Here are some key insights from the article:

1. AI is a tool, not a deity: The article emphasizes that AI, like any other technology, is a tool granted by God. It should be used wisely and responsibly, recognizing its limitations and avoiding the temptation to deify it.

2. God remains sovereign: Regardless of AI’s advancements, God retains ultimate control. Human achievements, however impressive, are insignificant compared to God’s power and purpose.

3. AI doesn’t alter God’s plan: The article assures readers that AI doesn’t change God’s ultimate plan for humanity, which centers around salvation and redemption through Jesus Christ. AI cannot replace God or fulfill the role of savior or antichrist.

4. Humans hold a unique place: The article clarifies that AI, despite its sophistication, cannot replicate the human soul. Humans are created in God’s image, possessing both physical and spiritual dimensions, making them distinct from any machine.

5. AI challenges and opportunities: The article acknowledges that AI advancements can be unsettling, exposing underlying anxieties about the future. However, it encourages using this time to strengthen faith, hope, and love while seeking God’s guidance in navigating this new technological landscape.

6. Responsibility and stewardship: The article emphasizes our responsibility as stewards of God’s creation. We should use AI for good, remembering that our ingenuity, while a gift, should be used in service to God, not for self-aggrandizement or harmful purposes.

7. Importance of faith: The article concludes by highlighting the importance of faith in navigating the complexities of the AI age. By grounding ourselves in Scripture and prayer, we can engage with AI with wisdom and discernment, demonstrating Christian values in a technologically advanced world.

Overall, the article offers a balanced perspective on AI, acknowledging its potential benefits while urging caution and ethical consideration. It emphasizes that faith and a Christ-centered worldview should guide our interactions with this evolving technology.

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The post A Christian Discussion On AI | Riot Podcast Ep 174 | Christian Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

This topic explores the complex relationship between the Christian community and Artificial Intelligence (AI). It highlights both the potential benefits and ethical concerns surrounding AI, urging Christians to approach this technology with wisdom and discernment.

Key points:

Ethical considerations: Christians emphasize the importance of avoiding bias, discrimination, and privacy invasion in AI development. They also raise concerns about job displacement, depersonalization, manipulation, and lack of clear accountability.

Stewardship and God’s creation: Some Christians see AI as an extension of human ingenuity and a tool to solve problems, while others caution against relying on machines instead of trusting in God.

Human identity and work: The article explores how AI might impact the understanding of human uniqueness, self-worth, and the value of human labor.

Socio-economic implications: Christians are concerned about AI potentially exacerbating economic inequality and social isolation. They emphasize the need for AI to promote social justice, strengthen communities, and uphold human dignity.

Overall, the article emphasizes the need for Christians to engage critically with AI, leveraging its benefits while safeguarding human values and promoting a future that reflects Christian principles.

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The post Christians and AI Concerns | Riot Podcast Ep 173 | Christian Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.

𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐍 𝐍𝐎𝐖 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁

How is God our Great Reward Genesis 15:1, discusses the promise given by God to Abraham, which is “I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.” The promise was given to Abraham after he led a fierce battle to rescue his nephew Lot and interacted with powerful kings. In Genesis 15:1, the Lord delivers this message of reassurance, promising to protect Abram and bless him even more than he already was.

Throughout the Bible, God portrays Himself as a shield of protection for His people. The text mentions verses from Deuteronomy, 2 Samuel, and Psalms where God is referred to as a shield. What’s more, God is our exceedingly great reward. The psalmist declares, “For the Lord God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The Lord will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right.”

The term translated as “reward” (śākār in Hebrew) often refers to a worker’s or servant’s wages. Sometimes the word speaks figuratively of a reward for faithfulness or a victor’s recompense. Abram’s reward was different. He had refused any material compensation for his encounters with earthly kings. Abram’s reward was tied to the Lord’s covenant promise, and at the time it was given to Abraham, He had no idea if it was going to come true.

The reward was given for the future inheritance of countless descendants and the previously promised land. Does God still give us future rewards? One future reward we get is the promise he gave Abraham “I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward,” said God to Abram, revealing the terms of their covenant relationship. Security, protection, and blessings belonged to Abram because of this relationship. Abram did not need to be shaken or live in fear precisely because He belonged to God. The same can be true for us.

In the immediate context of Genesis 15:1, the “exceedingly great reward” refers to the multitude of promised descendants and the land of promise. This “reward” beckoned Abraham and Sarah to live as people of faith and hope. In the same way, faith and hope are key to apprehending our reward—which is God Himself.

The Lord called Abram to trust entirely in God for protection and to place his hope in God’s promise of a very great reward. The theme of abundant reward for those with hearts fully committed to God recurs in Jesus’ teaching, particularly in His Sermon on the Mount. Jesus warned His followers not to seek admiration from people as this would forfeit their heavenly reward. The Lord sees the motives of our hearts as we give, pray, and serve Him, and rewards those whose intentions are pure.

Even so, it’s vital to understand that our salvation is not an earned reward. Our righteousness, which gives us access to God’s presence, comes through faith in Jesus Christ by His grace alone. Our great heavenly reward is an inheritance “that can never perish, spoil or fade,” bought and paid for by the blood of Jesus Christ.

God’s desire and great delight are that His people be satisfied in Him. When our relationship with the Lord is our most treasured pursuit, the ultimate prize is a deeper, fuller, and better knowledge of Him. “In him we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will.” That inheritance is “imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.” When God is our exceedingly great reward, we can say, like the psalmist, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

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The post How is God our Great Reward Genesis 15:1 | RIOT Podcast Ep. 172 | Christian Podcast appeared first on Riotpodcast.