The Westside Podcast—featuring Jonathan Hansen

Westside Family Church
  • 5.0 (25)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

A Westside Family Church conversation that takes a deeper look at relevant topics and offers tools designed to support you in your faith journey.

  1. APR 28

    How Do I Know God Hears My Prayers: And Other Faith Questions

    Honest Questions About Faith: Prayer, Christian Living, and God's Goodness Join Pastor Jonathan and Pastor Troy Kennedy for week three of the "Evidence" series from Westside Church, where they tackle some of the biggest questions and objections to the Christian faith. In this episode, they dive deep into three fundamental questions many believers wrestle with: Does God really hear my prayers? Exploring 1 John 5:14-15 and the Psalms, the pastors discuss how God's unlimited attention means He can hear billions of prayers simultaneously. They address the reality that God always answers prayer—with yes, no, or wait—and why sometimes the answer isn't what we hoped for in the moment. How do I live the Christian life without burning out? Both pastors share their personal struggles with trying to be "good boys" through sheer willpower. They unpack the difference between legalistic behavior modification and true transformation that flows from loving Jesus. As they put it: "God loves you as you are and not as you should be, but he also loves you enough not to leave you as you are." Where is God when life is painful? Through the lens of Romans 8:28 and the cross, they explore how God doesn't cause all things but redeems all things. The worst thing happened to the best person—and it produced the greatest good for everyone. God can walk with you through suffering and create something beautiful out of tragedy. This honest, grace-filled conversation creates space for doubt, questions, and real faith.

    42 min

  2. APR 21

    Top Objections To Christianity Answered: Faith, Doubt & Evidence

    Evidence for Christianity: A Conversation with Gavin Ortlund What if the toughest questions about faith actually lead us to the most compelling answers? In this episode, we sit down with Gavin Ortlund, creator of the popular YouTube channel Truth Unites, to explore some of the biggest objections to Christianity—and discover why the Christian worldview not only holds up under scrutiny but offers profound hope for our deepest longings. In This Conversation, We Explore: • Does God Really Exist? We discuss the evidence from creation, the fine-tuning of the universe, and why the more science discovers, the more it points toward an intelligent Creator. • The Problem of Suffering How do we reconcile a good God with the reality of evil and pain? Christianity offers a unique answer that no other worldview can match. • Science vs. Faith Are they really in conflict? We unpack why this tension is often artificial and how both can coexist beautifully. • Objective Truth in a Relativistic Culture In a world where "your truth is yours and mine is mine," what does it mean to claim that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life? • What About Those Who've Never Heard? One of the hardest questions believers face—and why we can trust God's justice while still feeling urgency about sharing the gospel. • Why Christianity Is Such Good News The hope of resurrection and why, for believers, the best days are always ahead. About Our Guest: Gavin Ortlund is a pastor, author, and apologist known for his gracious yet uncompromising approach to defending the Christian faith. His YouTube channel, Truth Unites, has become one of the premier resources for thoughtful Christian apologetics. His upcoming book, Why Christianity Makes Sense: A Book About Jesus, the Mysteries of the World, and the Longings in Your Heart, releases September 2026. Who This Episode Is For: Whether you're a skeptic with honest questions, a believer wrestling with doubts, or someone curious about what Christianity really offers, this conversation is for you. We believe every question deserves a thoughtful answer, and every person deserves to be heard with love and respect. Connect With Us: If this conversation resonated with you, we'd love to hear your thoughts. What questions are you wrestling with? Share them with us on social media or leave a comment. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of our Evidence series, where we're tackling the top objections to the Christian faith with grace, truth, and intellectual honesty. Resources Mentioned: • Truth Unites YouTube Channel - Subscribe for more thoughtful Christian content • Why Christianity Makes Sense by Gavin Ortland (September 2026) • The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self by Carl Trueman Additional Resources: Books: Evidence That Demands a Verdict: Life-Changing Truth for a Skeptical World - By Josh McDowell & Sean McDowell Mere Christianity - By C.S. Lewis Is Atheism Dead? - By Eric Metaxas I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist - By Norman L. Geisler & Frank Turek The Case for Christ: A Journalist's Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus - By Lee Strobel Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion - By Rebecca McLaughlin YouTube: Gavin Ortlund - If Christianity Is True… Why So Many Religions? Dr. Frank Turek - Does Truth Exist || Project 3:15

    1 hr

  3. APR 14

    The Existence of God: Why Faith and Reason Go Hand in Hand

    The Existence of God: Why Faith and Reason Go Hand in Hand Is faith in God irrational—or is there real evidence behind it? In this episode, we explore one of life’s biggest questions: Does God exist? Through the lens of both science and philosophy, we unpack compelling reasons why belief in God is not just a leap of faith, but a thoughtful and reasonable conclusion. You’ll hear about: Why every human has a built-in sense of right and wrong What the beginning of the universe reveals about a possible Creator How the fine-tuning of the universe points to intentional design What DNA and the complexity of life suggest about intelligence behind creation Whether you’re skeptical, searching, or looking to strengthen your faith, this conversation will challenge you to think deeper and consider the evidence for yourself. Faith and reason aren’t enemies—they may actually point to the same truth. 👉 Subscribe for more episodes from our Evidence series as we continue exploring questions about God, truth, and what it means to believe.

    54 min

  4. MAR 11

    Paul: Confronted by Grace | The Damascus Road That Changed Everything

    The conversion of Saul on the Damascus road is one of the most dramatic transformations in all of Scripture. In this episode, we explore how a man who was passionately committed to persecuting Christians encountered the risen Jesus—and everything changed. Saul was a highly educated Pharisee who believed he was defending God’s truth. But in a powerful and unexpected moment, Jesus confronted him with grace. That encounter not only transformed Saul’s life, but also redirected the course of Christian history as he became the Apostle Paul. In this message recap, we unpack what this story reveals about the difference between religion and relationship with God, how our mental picture of God shapes our faith, and why true spiritual conversion happens through encountering Jesus personally. We also look at how God uses ordinary people—like Ananias—to participate in His extraordinary plans. Paul’s story reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Whether someone sees themselves as religious or far from God, the transforming power of Christ is available to all. Join us as we reflect on the life-changing moment when Paul was confronted by grace and what it means for our own faith journey today.

    49 min

  5. MAR 5

    Global Impact Episode 2: Beyond the Walls

    What happens when you step out in faith… before you see the provision? In 2014, a single mom faced what felt impossible. Her daughter, Ashlyn, sensed God calling her to go on a mission trip to Ecuador—with only weeks to prepare and $1,600 to raise. For a family living on a teacher’s salary and walking through the pain of abandonment, it seemed out of reach. But within days of saying “yes” to God, anonymous donors covered the entire cost. That moment didn’t just fund a trip—it launched a legacy. What began as one daughter’s courageous step of faith grew into years of missions involvement for their entire family. Both daughters served internationally. Their mom eventually transitioned from participant to leader—now helping coordinate family mission trips to Guatemala and leading student spring break experiences. Along the way, they learned to budget for missions as their annual “vacation”—and watched God faithfully provide above and beyond what they could plan. In this episode, you’ll discover: • How God provides when we take bold steps of faith • Why modern missions is about partnership—not parachuting in • The power of coming alongside local leaders and empowering the local church • How unity across denominations is transforming communities in Guatemala • Why short-term mission trips often change participants more than the places they serve • How family mission trips can shape spiritual legacy for generations You’ll also hear how a partnership model in Guatemala has grown from connecting three pastors to a thriving network of more than 30 churches across multiple denominations—working together for prayer, support, and citywide outreach. When churches move from isolation to unity, the impact multiplies. If you’ve ever wondered whether God could use your ordinary “yes” to do something extraordinary, this conversation is for you. 🌍 Explore upcoming global mission trips: https://www.westsidefamily.church/global-trips 👉 Subscribe for more stories of faith in action. 👉 Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to take their next step. 👉 Learn more about missions opportunities and how you can get involved.

    37 min

  6. MAR 3

    Lessons from Stephen's Extraordinary Faith

    Stephen’s story in Acts of the Apostles reveals a powerful truth: God uses ordinary people who are fully surrendered to Him. In this episode, we unpack the life of Saint Stephen—a table server in the early church who became a bold defender of the faith. His courage before the Sanhedrin and his unwavering trust in Jesus challenge us to examine our own faith. Is it intellectual belief, or life-changing conviction? We also explore the historical impact of the early church’s radical generosity—especially their care for widows—and how simple, faithful service helped fuel Christianity’s growth across the Roman Empire. This conversation is for: Seekers curious about the truth of Christianity Believers wanting deeper spiritual growth Anyone wrestling with fear, comfort, or doubt Christians longing to be filled with the Holy Spirit Key themes include: Being both sinner and saint by grace What it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit Courage under pressure Faith that moves from head knowledge to heart transformation Serving others as a pathway to joy Stephen’s life reminds us: when we stand for Jesus on earth, He stands for us in heaven. If this episode encouraged you, subscribe, share, and leave a review to help others discover hope and truth.

    44 min

  7. FEB 26

    Global Impact Episode 1: Beyond the Walls

    What happens when ordinary people say yes to God’s call to go? In this powerful Global Trips conversation, three Westside leaders—David, Yulia, and Paul—share how short-term mission trips to Thailand and South Africa transformed their faith, leadership, and everyday lives. After 16 years of leading trips to Thailand, Paul reflects on how he went from being skeptical about short-term missions to seeing firsthand how God uses global missions to shape hearts. David and Yulia share how a 2022 trip to South Africa—initially motivated by photography and curiosity—became a turning point in their understanding of following Jesus. What began with mixed motives became a life-changing encounter with God’s purpose. Together, they discuss: Moving from a tourist mindset to a learning mindset on mission trips Why feeling unqualified is often the starting point for obedience How God uses delays, disruptions, and imperfect motives for good The difference between a task mindset and a relationship mindset in ministry Why global missions should ignite local ministry in places like Kansas City This episode is a reminder that mission work isn’t just about the impact you make—it’s about the impact God makes in you. When God calls you to go, He equips you. Don’t let fear, finances, or feelings of inadequacy keep you from stepping out in faith. Whether you’re considering your first short-term mission trip, exploring global outreach opportunities, or looking to live on mission in your own neighborhood, this conversation will challenge and encourage you. 👉 Ready to take your next step? Learn more about upcoming global mission trips and how you can get involved. https://www.westsidefamily.church/global-trips

    31 min

  8. FEB 25

    When Failure Isn't Final: Lessons from Peter's Life

    Have you ever felt disqualified by your past? Like your failure, shame, or mistakes are too big for God to use? In this powerful message, we explore the life of the Apostle Peter — a man full of bold faith and glaring contradictions — and how Jesus transformed him from a fearful denier into a courageous leader of the early Church. Centered around two “charcoal fire” moments in Scripture — Peter’s denial of Jesus and his later restoration — this sermon reveals a life-changing truth: failure is not final with Jesus. Peter, an uneducated fisherman, became the mouthpiece of the Holy Spirit and a foundational leader in the early Church. Why? Because God doesn’t call the qualified — He qualifies the called. And the very place of Peter’s greatest shame became the starting point of his greatest calling. If you’ve ever struggled with guilt, regret, spiritual failure, or feeling unworthy, this message is for you. In this sermon, you’ll discover: • How Jesus meets us in our shame instead of turning away • Why your past does not disqualify you from God’s purpose • How the Holy Spirit empowers ordinary people for extraordinary impact • How your greatest failure can become fuel for future ministry • What it means to run toward Jesus instead of away from Him Whether you’re exploring faith, returning to church, or looking to grow deeper in your walk with Christ, this message offers hope, restoration, and practical next steps. Take a moment today to bring what you’ve been hiding into the light. Through prayer, confession, or simply acknowledging God’s presence throughout your day, you can begin walking in freedom. 👉 Subscribe for more biblical teaching, Christian encouragement, and real conversations about faith. 👉 Share this message with someone who needs hope today.

    46 min
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A Westside Family Church conversation that takes a deeper look at relevant topics and offers tools designed to support you in your faith journey.

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