Christian Questions Bible Podcast

Rick and Jonathan
  • 4.6 (53)
  • Christianity
  • Weekly

Weekly podcasts from Rick and Jonathan dealing with life’s issues from a biblical perspective

  1. 2d ago

    Do I Ever Mix My Christianity with Paganism?

    One of the foundations of true Christian discipleship is the obvious focus on following in Jesus’ footsteps. Jesus himself told us about leaving the world behind and being willing to live a life of dedication and sacrifice as he did. One important but sometimes overlooked challenge to this is the practicality of what it means to leave the world behind. This is where an understanding of paganism needs to come into play. It’s important to realize that paganism is not a single, unified religion; rather, it is a broad umbrella encompassing many different spiritual beliefs and practices, often connected by a reverence for nature and the natural world. So, what are the differences and what are the similarities between paganism and Christianity? Are there any aspects of paganism that have become part of my Christian walk? Many people assume Christianity and paganism share common spiritual values, but do they really? This episode compares pagan beliefs with biblical teaching, examining topics such as creation, nature, divination, idolatry and worship. Discover how the Bible helps Christians identify spiritual compromises and remain separate from influences that draw them away from God. Here’s the difference The Bible reveals a fundamental difference between Christianity and paganism: the source of life and truth. While pagan beliefs often attribute spiritual significance to nature, supernatural forces or various deities, Scripture points to one Creator who designed and sustains all things. Appreciating the beauty of creation should draw us toward God, not away from Him. The Apostle Paul warned Christians not to become spiritually joined to beliefs and practices that conflict with their devotion to Christ (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). His words challenge us to examine modern influences that may seem harmless but can subtly shift our trust away from God. Ideas such as divination, manifestation, horoscopes and other spiritual practices promise insight or control that belong in God’s hands alone. We kindly disagree At the same time, Christians are called to treat others with kindness and respect. Many people sincerely seek meaning and purpose through their beliefs. Our responsibility is not to judge them, but to remain faithful to biblical truth while reflecting Christ’s character. Ultimately, this subject is about wholehearted devotion. Are we allowing anything to compete with our worship of God? Following Jesus means continually separating ourselves from influences that compromise our faith and drawing closer to the One who created us. Key Takeaways Paganism and Christianity have fundamentally different foundations. Creation points to God and should inspire worship of Him alone. Scripture warns against divination and other occult practices. Christians should lovingly respect others while remaining faithful to God’s Word. Following Christ requires vigilance against influences that can dilute our devotion to God.

  2. Oct 26

    What is the Balance Between Pride and Humility?

    Jesus emphatically taught us that personal humility is a primary ingredient in this life of anyone professing to be his disciple. His own humble example was an unmistakable illustration of what our lives are supposed to look like. When it came to pride, to self-exaltation, he was just as emphatic. As we strive to understand how to apply humility and avoid pride, several questions come to the surface. First, what does true humility mean? Is it a self-deprecating behavior that renounces our ability to be or do anything good? And what about pride? Are we to never be “proud” one or of any accomplishment in our lives? As usual, when we examine the Scriptures, the answers to these questions about humility and pride will all present themselves with great clarity. What is humility exactly? Humility is not thinking less of yourself but is honestly assessing who you are and using your God-given abilities without self-importance. Scripture teaches that self-exaltation leads to humiliation, while those who humble themselves before God will be exalted in His time. Jesus, Moses, the apostles and the Apostle Paul all demonstrate that true humility and faithful service go hand in hand. Jesus provided the ultimate example of humility by willingly serving others, lowering himself to do the Father’s will, and remaining approachable despite the authority entrusted to him. The apostles built upon that example, teaching Christians to associate with the humble and regard others as more important than themselves. They are to recognize that every blessing, ability and opportunity comes from God. Talents are important! While the Scriptures consistently condemn arrogance and boastful pride, they also show that Christians may rejoice in God’s providence and faithfully use their talents. The crucial distinction is that glory belongs to God, not us. The pattern is clear: we are directed away from self-promotion and towards a humble reliance on God. Leave exaltation in His hands. Key Takeaways Humility is having an honest, godly assessment of ourselves. Jesus is the supreme example of humility in action. Pride becomes sinful when it elevates self above God and others. Christians should use their abilities without seeking recognition. God’s favor rests upon the humble. Exaltation belongs to God and comes in His time. All glory, success and spiritual growth should point back to God.

  3. Oct 19

    Are Both Unity and Diversity Possible in Today’s Christianity?

    John 3:16 tells us, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” You’d think that having such a loving God and such a selfless and loving redeemer as Jesus, we as Christians would all be unified and working together to spread the good news, building up one another in the faith.  Yet here we stand in countless camps of denominationally divided believers. Why? The answer comes down to the fundamental question of how we decide what is and is not required of us as Christians. A simple observation: we believe that Christianity, Christian unity and diversity must be labeled by Scripture and Scripture only. If we put aside traditions and denominations, what will we find to guide us to building biblical unity and diversity in Christ? This episode explores how the Bible defines Christian unity and diversity, focusing on Colossians 3 as the foundation for Christlike character and shared purpose. We look at how Christians grow together when they set aside human traditions, embrace spiritual renewal and allow God’s love to shape their relationships within the body of Christ. True unity in Christ True unity in Christ begins when we recognize that our shared faith is not built on human institutions but on the transforming power of God’s spirit working within each believer. When we put off the old self—our pride, prejudice and self‑centeredness—and put on the new self, modeled after Jesus, we begin to see one another through Jesus’ eyes. Diversity then becomes a strength, not a source of division, because each member of the body contributes unique gifts that serve the same purpose: glorifying God and building up the church. Unity and diversity are complementary expressions of God’s design. The Apostle Paul’s words in Ephesians 4 call us to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling,” showing humility, gentleness, patience and love. These qualities make unity possible and allow diversity to flourish under the guidance of Scripture. When we live this way, our differences no longer separate us; rather, they enrich the body of Christ and reflect the depth of his wisdom and grace. Key Takeaways Unity and diversity are both essential parts of God’s plan for His people. True unity grows from a Christlike character of humility, compassion and love. Diversity thrives when each person uses their gifts to serve the same mission. Scripture, not tradition or denomination, defines what Christian unity means. Putting off the old self and embracing renewal in Christ builds lasting harmony. The church’s strength lies in believers working together, not apart, for God’s glory.

  4. Oct 12

    What Does It Mean to Be Baptized Into Christ’s Death?

    Baptism plays a vital and sacred role in the lives of Christians. John the Baptist introduced baptism into the New Testament as a symbol of repentance, in preparation for Jesus coming on the scene. Jesus then took that symbol and amplified it to include the sacrificial aspects of following him as a disciple. Throughout the New Testament, the concept of baptism is described in several ways. So, what does it all mean? What should we as Christians understand about the broad meaning of baptism, and how should we go about daily living what it tells us to stand for? How do I as an individual Christian embrace being baptized into Christ’s death? Being baptized into Christ’s death marks the start of a life shaped by leaving the old self behind and learning to walk in the new life God provides. Romans 6 shows that this baptism is not just symbolic but the beginning of a committed, transformed way of living. John’s kind of baptism vs. Jesus’ kind of baptism John’s baptism laid the foundation by calling Israel to repentance. It helped people recognize their sin, admit their need and prepare their hearts for the forgiveness Jesus would bring. But Jesus expanded baptism far beyond repentance. His own baptism marked the beginning of his ministry and his receiving of God’s spirit. His teachings revealed that following him would involve sacrifice and a deliberate counting of the cost. Baptism into Christ is the declaration of a lifelong commitment. The New Testament shows that baptism is always “into Christ,” never into a church or denomination. Jesus instructed his followers to baptize under the authority of the Father, son and holy spirit, while passages like Galatians 3 describe believers as being “baptized into Christ.” This means baptism places us under God’s authority and into Christ’s identity. Scripture also describes baptism as being “clothed with Christ.” His merit—earned through perfect obedience and sacrifice—is credited to us like a robe of righteousness that covers our flaws and gives us standing before God. From that point forward, baptism becomes a daily practice of living out our dedication, dying to the old life and rising to walk in newness of life through the power of God’s spirit. Key Takeaways • Baptism begins with repentance but grows into a lifelong walk of renewal and sacrifice. • Jesus’ baptism set the pattern: full dedication and surrender to God’s will. • Baptism signals a deliberate break from the old life, showing our willingness to let God reshape our character and purpose. • Baptism places us within Christ’s body, giving us a shared identity and a role in God’s unfolding plan for the future. • Baptism is not a one time event—it is a daily commitment to live the new life God provides.

  5. Oct 5

    Can Christians Lose Their Salvation? (Part II)

    Salvation is a foundational belief that every Christian stands upon. We all claim renewal as a result of Jesus dying for our sins. Sounds simple and straightforward until we begin to ask the hard questions about how salvation actually works. In Part I of this 2-part series, we took a hard scriptural look at the mechanics of salvation. We begin Part II by briefly summarizing our Part I conversation regarding what we believe the whole Bible from Genesis to Revelation teaches us about salvation. Next, we will dive deeply into the very controversial question about a Christian’s ability or inability to ever lose that salvation. Answering this question needs clear and plainly stated biblical support. Let’s find it! We continue our study on salvation by examining the Bible’s strongest warning passages and how they challenged the popular “once saved, always saved” view.  While salvation is a gift from God, Christians must hold fast, remain faithful and avoid the danger of falling away. This episode builds on Part I by exploring how free will and personal responsibility all play a vital role in keeping our relationship with God strong. The warnings in Hebrews Part II takes us into the sobering territory of what the Bible actually says about falling away. Hebrews 10 warns believers who have already been enlightened not to drift into willful sin. Hebrews 6 describes the tragic condition of someone who had every spiritual advantage yet consciously turned away. Paul himself—after decades of faithful service—said he had not “already attained,” showing that glorification is conditional and not guaranteed simply by beginning the Christian walk. None of this means salvation is fragile or easily lost; rather, it means salvation is relational. God never overrides free will, and the holy spirit is described as a pledge—a down payment of what God intends to complete. Our responsibility is to nurture that gift, resist the temptations that once defined us, and remain committed to the narrow path of discipleship. These warnings remind us that our choices matter and that the privilege of being called now carries profound accountability. Key Takeaways • Salvation is a free gift, but it does not override free will. • Scripture repeatedly warns believers to “hold fast” and remain faithful. • Falling away happens only through conscious, willful rejection—not accidental failure. • The holy spirit is a pledge of future inheritance, not the completed inheritance. • God is faithful to His promise; our role is to stay faithful to our calling.

  6. Sep 28

    Can Christians Lose Their Salvation? (Part I)

    Every professed Christian acknowledges that they have been saved as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice. The big questions come after that acknowledgment. How is someone saved, is there a cost for this salvation, or is it a free gift? What are we saved from? Is there a way to lose this salvation or is it an unbreakable and permanent protection no matter what we do? If we go to various denominations with these questions we will receive a wide variety of answers. The challenge is, all these answers do have somewhat of a basis in Scripture. What do we do now? We look at scripture as a whole and find the recurring themes that explain how all of these moving parts come together. Two Phases of Salvation Part I builds a clear foundation for understanding salvation by examining what it is, how it works and who receives it. We walk through key scriptures to explain the difference between salvation by invitation for true followers of Jesus now and salvation by just and merciful inclusion for the world in the future. It also highlights the cost of discipleship, the role of free will and why only spirit-begotten Christians are on trial for eternal life in the present age. This groundwork prepares listeners for Part II, where the warning passages and the question of losing salvation will be explored in depth. Beyond just a moment of belief or feelings of strong emotion, salvation is a process rooted in God’s calling. Those drawn to Christ now are justified and invited to present their lives as a living sacrifice, walking a narrow path of growth and faithfulness. Non-Christians can’t lose salvation because they have not yet received it; their opportunity comes later in Christ’s kingdom when accurate knowledge of God is provided and evil influences are removed. Only those who are spirit begotten and in covenant relationship with God can turn away from their calling in this age. Understanding these distinctions is essential before approaching the more challenging scriptures addressed in Part II. Key Takeaways Salvation is deliverance from eternal death through Jesus’ sacrifice. God’s calling now is selective and leads to justification and discipleship. Present salvation requires offering one’s life as a living sacrifice. Only Christians who have received the holy spirit are on trial for eternal life today. The world’s salvation comes later under Christ’s kingdom conditions.

  7. Sep 21

    What Big Lessons Can We Learn from the Little Book of 3 John?

    Some of the most significant lessons can come from the smallest things. The Bible is a big book made up of 66 books. The shortest of those 66 books is the book of 3rd John. This letter consisting of less than 300 words, was written to a Christian named Gaius. John describes him as a disciple whose life and example are truly Christlike. John then sharply contrasts him with another Christian leader whose example is exactly the opposite as he seemingly dominates those around him. As John ends this letter, he brings in the example of a third Christian as a contrast for Gaius to observe. These three examples show us the depths of Christian character, the power of biblical truth, the danger of mixing pride and power in with discipleship and the impact of leading by example. Gaius After introducing Gaius as a model of truth and love, this episode walks through how John builds his encouragement by pointing to Gaius’ consistent, observable faithfulness. The brethren testified that Gaius “walked in truth,” meaning his convictions shaped every part of his life. His hospitality toward traveling Christians was a tangible expression of the gospel itself. In the early church, believers depended on one another for lodging, meals and safety, and Gaius’ generosity became a witness others carried home. John reminds us that supporting faithful workers makes us “fellow workers with the truth,” sharing in the synergy of the gospel even when our roles differ. Diotrephes The tone shifts sharply when John introduces Diotrephes, a leader whose pride disrupted the church. He refused apostolic authority, spread malicious accusations, rejected visiting brethren, and even expelled those who tried to show hospitality. Our conversation highlights how John contrasts Diotrephes’ self‑promotion with the humility of the apostles, who consistently presented themselves as servants rather than rulers. John’s warning is clear: craving position and prominence undermines the very truth the church is called to uphold. Demetrius To guide Gaius through this challenge, John presents a third example—Demetrius. He is described as having a strong testimony from everyone, from the truth itself, and from John personally. Though the letter never explicitly instructs replacing Diotrephes, the implication is unmistakable: rely on those whose character aligns with Christ. Demetrius’ consistency between message and conduct shows what trustworthy leadership looks like. John closes by urging Gaius to imitate what is good, reject what is evil, and continue strengthening the body of Christ through truth, love and service. His fatherly tone reminds us that even small letters can carry profound guidance for church life today. There are many lessons from 3 John! Key Takeaways Gaius models truth, love and tangible hospitality. Diotrephes reveals the danger of prideful, controlling leadership. Demetrius provides a trustworthy pattern of Christlike character. John urges believers to imitate good, reject evil and support gospel work.

  8. Sep 14

    Can Death and Hope Actually Work Together?

    When we look at the world around us and the powerful influences of darkness and evil that dominate it, we can easily get discouraged. Why would God allow so much to be so wrong for so long? Thinking about faith is helpful, but it doesn’t alleviate the nagging questions about how darkness and sin seem to always be winning. So… what if. What if we apply our faith to a broader perspective and look at the world’s history as the beginnings of an eternal plan for all of humanity? What if we mark specific cycles of this history as steps God is having His human family take? What if each step in God’s plan after Adam and Eve were created is marked by death, and that death would bring the seeds of renewal and hope for the next step? What if this process shows us the mind, power, love and mercy of God? In a world overshadowed by darkness and discouragement, this episode explores how death and hope in God’s plan actually work together. By tracing the major turning points of human history—from Eden to the present—we reveal how each ending becomes a God‑designed beginning, planting the seeds of renewal, purpose and eternal hope. God’s plan moves forward Throughout Scripture, God repeatedly uses the pattern of death followed by renewal to move His plan forward. The first recorded death—an animal sacrificed to clothe Adam and Eve—signaled the beginning of life in a fallen world. The catastrophic death of the pre‑Flood world opened the door for Noah to carry hope into a new age. The death of Jacob ended the era of the patriarchs and ushered in God’s work with the nation of Israel. Joseph’s death preceded Israel’s bondage, yet it set the stage for Moses to lead them into freedom and the Law Covenant. Ultimately, the most profound death—Jesus’ willing sacrifice—became the foundation of the Gospel Age and the promise that all the families of the earth will be blessed. Each ending in God’s plan is not a failure but a transition. Death closes one chapter so renewal can begin the next, always moving humanity closer to God’s eternal purpose. Key Takeaways God’s plan unfolds in ages, each ending with a significant death. Every age ending death in Scripture opens the door to renewal and hope. Adam, Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses and Jesus each carry the torch of renewal forward. Jesus’ death is the ultimate turning point, guaranteeing hope for all humanity. God’s foresight ensures that every ending is part of His purposeful, unfolding design.

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Weekly podcasts from Rick and Jonathan dealing with life’s issues from a biblical perspective

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