Grace or Grit David Talley

For once, Patrick and I had no script. This is our first recording session in a couple of months, so we're just catching up here; talking about what's going on and what's coming up. Enjoy!

Pretty simple discussion: is "The Israel of God" a spiritual entity, or is it the literal, ethnic, historical, national, geographical Israel of the Old Testament? Listen as Dave and Patrick attempt a clear answer.

Here are some things that commonly impact my (Dave's) sermon prep:

 - I have a master plan of ideas.

- My motto in preaching is to declare the truth with power, zeal, and affection.  

- It has been said that biblical preaching will teach something significant, will be authoritative (coming from Scripture), and will have a hook (it will call people to action). 

- I use a dominant text, focus on a central truth, find illustrations and examples to clarify the message, and construct an "Action Step" with which to conclude. 

 - In both prayer and daily experience, I’m aware of the Spirit's leading in my meditations. Sermon preparation without heart preparation is woefully incomplete.  And attached to this is my awareness of the role that the prayers of others plays in my preparation and delivery.



 - And, I have certain resources that I run to repeatedly for help in understanding my text and topic.

There is more to consider though, so listen to the podcast and hear Dave and Patrick discuss their individual strategies and processes.

Transgenderism is a hot and divisive topic. In many cases it's even a basic litmus test of fidelity with modern wokeness. But, there are moral and spiritual ramifications. So, where should the Christian stand on this issue. Listen as Dave and Patrick attempt to deal with it with grace, and yes also with some grit. For sure, it is a gritty topic.

It's not exactly fun to think about, but the Bible teaches us that judgment has to begin at the house of the Lord.

Listen as Dave and Patrick try to unravel this difficult issue.

Who decides what the church will do when the church comes together for a worship assembly? And, what is the basis or source of the elements that we do include? Are they Biblical, or is it just human tradition that drives us through...


The call to worship
Some songs
Prayer
Bible reading
Communion
Announcements
The collection of contributions
The sermon
The invitation
Baptisms

...etc.

Additionally, even if we are including the right elements, are we doing them the right way, and are we giving each aspect the proper weight and emphasis?

Listen as Dave and Patrick (and a surprise guest commenter) delve into the matter of biblical vs. traditional liturgy and address the question, "What get's into the order of service?" And, who are we trying to please anyway?