AMEN PODCAST

Philippians 4:13 is one of the most quoted verses in the Bible, but it’s not about sports or winning. Paul wrote it from house arrest, and he called it a secret. In this final episode of our Stress Less series, we unpack what that secret really is, how Martin Luther found the same strength to spark the Reformation, and how you can stay steady whether life is going great or falling apart.

Next week we start Grace Race, a slow walk through the Gospel of John.

Amen Podcast is hosted by Alex Wilson, a pastor in Hawaii, and his wife Lokelani. Every week we walk through Scripture together and ask one question to help you apply it to your life.

Listen, join our email list, and support the show at amenpodcast.com

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Today we’re discussing what living an appropriate Christian life looks like and how we can be calmly happy in Christ without worry. There is an appropriate way to live as God's children. When we are not calm in our hearts, we are tempted to live according to what we think is right or what feels right. This leads to stress because inappropriate living brings consequences. 

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A hurricane is heading toward Kauai, the wind is literally blowing through our garage as we record, and Paul's words have never felt more real: stand firm in the Lord.

In this episode of Amen Podcast, we walk through Philippians 4:1-3 and talk about what it actually looks like to stand on business when the world is shaking beneath your feet. Paul writes to a church where two women are at odds, and he reminds them (and us) that people are never the real problem. It's spiritual. And the answer isn't trying harder. It's remembering that your name is written in the Book of Life, permanently.

We also talk about a wild Matt Damon story, why you never have to say "do you know who I am?", what Revelation 3:5 really means about your name being blotted out, and how eternal security frees you from people pleasing.

In After the Amen, Lokelani opens up about standing firm in prioritizing family, and we ask you: where do you need to persist?

Keep Kauai in your prayers as Hurricane Nola approaches. We love you guys.

Scriptures: Philippians 4:1-3, Philippians 3:14-15, Luke 10:20, Revelation 20:15, Matthew 10:32-33, Revelation 3:5, Revelation 13:8, Revelation 17:8, 1 John 2:19, John 10:28-29, John 8:12, 1 Timothy 4:8

Chapters00:00 Hurricane Nola is coming02:13 The Matt Damon story04:28 Philippians 4:1-306:12 What it means to stand firm09:10 It's not personal, it's spiritual10:40 Your name is written in the Book of Life13:17 Can your name be blotted out?16:30 Prayer17:03 After the Amen: where do you need to persist?22:27 Eternal security frees you from people pleasing26:31 You are the light of life29:30 Support Amen Podcast

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Walking with God when you feel nothing.

There's a German word, Fernweh, that means far-sickness. Homesickness is longing for a place you came from. Fernweh is aching for a place you have never been.

Every person alive has it. The question is what you do with it.In Philippians 3:15-21, Paul writes in tears about people who felt that longing and settled for earth instead of heaven. He also tells us how to keep walking: look up toward Christ, not down at your sin, and find real people who walk the pattern.

Alex and Lokelani walk through what walking with God actually is, why so many people quit, and how to keep going. Then in After the Amen, they answer the question: who are you imitating?

study guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V3GVs8LULkDZXOi9BXlZIzrXlBEl4-fD/view?usp=share_linkDonate: https://amenpodcast.com/donateFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amenpodcast/Subscribe to Email List: https://amenpodcast.com/subscribeAmen Podcast: https://youtube.com/amenpodcastAmen Podcast (spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/55g6BqsNLWNPWz7TuQ1QBKAmen Podcast (apple): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/amen-podcast/id1437840199

In this episode we look at one verse, Philippians 3:14, and ask what Paul was actually hunting down from a prison cell while still full of joy.

The Greek word for "press on" means to hunt. Saul hunted Christians. Then Christ hunted him. Everything changed. Paul spent the rest of his life chasing the one thing that had already chased him down.

You don't press on so God will accept you. You press on because He already has. Like a bride preparing for a wedding day to a groom she already belongs to. Like Mary at His feet. Like John leaning on His chest.

The goal isn't heaven. The goal isn't the crown. The goal is Christ.

Hunt down heaven with a full heart.

After the Amen: How does Christ's pursuit of you make you stress less? Drop your answer in the comments.

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What do you need to forget?

In Philippians 3:13, Paul writes from house arrest and says he is “forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.” But no healthy human can actually erase their past. So what does the Bible mean by forget?

In this episode of the Stress Less series, Alex and Lokelani walk through Joseph’s forgiveness of his brothers in Genesis 45, the cost of discipleship in Luke 9:62, Paul’s testimony in 1 Timothy 1:12-17, and God’s promise in Hebrews 10:17 to remember our sins no more. Biblical forgetting doesn’t mean amnesia. It means your past no longer rules you, and your sin no longer determines your standing with God.

Plus 8 applications for walking free of what’s behind you, and an honest After the Amen conversation about shame, fear in relationships, and what four years of pastoring a house church has actually cost.

Amen Podcast is a listener supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Every episode is made possible by donors like you.

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What is your one thing?

In this episode of the Stress Less series, Alex preaches Philippians 3:13 and Lokelani joins for the Q&A after the amen. Paul wasn’t scattered. He was a runner with his eyes on one finish line. Most of our stress doesn’t come from having too little. It comes from carrying things God never asked us to carry.

We look at where “one thing” shows up in Scripture (Luke 10:42, Mark 10:21, John 9:25, Psalm 27:4), what Jesus’ one thing was, and how to find yours.

FREE STUDY GUIDE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jpDsiLG0XZi9jchdd1RoIt_FEtYM-lB6/view?usp=sharing

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Go out and be the church.

Paul had something better than Mamba mentality. In Philippians 3:12 he says he has not obtained it and he is not already perfect, but he presses on to make it his own, because Christ Jesus made him His own.

Warren Wiersbe called this holy dissatisfaction. We are content in Christ, but never content with where we are in our walk with Him.

Alex breaks down why we need it, why comparison quietly kills it, and how remembering where you were when Christ found you keeps you in the race.

After the Amen question: Are you dependent on Christ, or have you grown complacent?

Study guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1I-2afmFofQc4JK2fyDxRw7H5vVND1At9vPwUYFK-X3Y/edit?tab=t.0

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counting all as loss, that we may gain Christ! Philippians 3:8-11. amenpodcast.com/donate

SPOTIFY DESCRIPTION

Comparison is not just a bad habit. It is a confidence problem. In Philippians 3:4-7, Paul lists seven things that made him look impressive and then moves every one of them into the loss column. We talk about why we compare, what it costs us, and the only comparison that gives you real confidence.

Free study guide for this episode: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ItSPfIlbyjDn8zYFAwAmnGoeeTUBXMyZ/view?usp=drivesdk

This podcast is listener supported. If it has helped you, consider giving at amenpodcast.com/donate, Venmo @amenpodcast, or Cash App $amenalex.

Go out and be the church.

Alex separated his AC joint racing the guys after church, and suddenly everything he took for granted with two working arms was gone. That’s the whole point of Philippians 3:1-3. Paul is writing to a church being pressured by Judaizers, people telling Gentile believers they had to become Jewish before they could become Christian. Paul calls it what it is: dogs, evildoers, mutilators of the flesh.

In this episode we walk through why confidence in the flesh grieves God and isn’t safe for you, five problems with trusting what you can do, and three ways to actually rely on God instead. Plus the line that ties it all together: joy comes from reliance, not restraint.

Alex and Lokelani also talk about how false teachers keep people locked in, why the “better version of yourself” message is not the gospel, and the very easy test for whether a Christian influencer is putting their confidence in the flesh or in Christ.

Part of the Stress Less series through Philippians.

CHAPTERS0:00 I broke my shoulder racing after church2:20 Who the Judaizers were (Acts 10, 11, 15)5:30 Reading Philippians 3:1-36:15 It grieves God13:00 It isn’t safe for you13:35 Dogs, evildoers, and those who mutilate the flesh17:00 Five problems with confidence in the flesh25:40 How to actually rely on God27:50 Joy comes from reliance, not restraint31:00 The physical can never reach the spiritual35:15 So what gives you confidence?37:40 After the Amen44:45 How false teachers keep people hooked48:50 The iPad I destroyed for no reason53:45 How to spot confidence in the flesh online

amenpodcast.com

Most of our stress comes from people online telling us what to be, what to wear, what to buy, and where to go. Jesus frees us from all of that.

In this episode of the Stress Less series through Philippians, Alex and Lokelani look at Epaphroditus, a man named after a pagan god who became one of Paul’s most trusted brothers in the ministry. Paul gives him five titles: brother, fellow worker, fellow soldier, messenger, and minister. If the people influencing you don’t fit that list, they shouldn’t be influencing you.

In this episode:

* The 5 titles every godly influence in your life should have

* Why you should look for influences in places of suffering, not prosperity

* Why a screen pastor can never replace a physical one

* No, there is no “spirit of tardiness”

* How to be de-influenced: honor godly people, look at their life, think for yourself, and watch out for the vain

After the Amen question: How do you need Christ to influence you? Answer in the comments.

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#Philippians #BibleStudy #ChristianPodcast #StressLess #AmenPodcast

In Philippians 2:19-24, Paul couldn’t find anyone like Timothy to send to the Philippians. Why? Because Timothy stopped seeking his own interests and started seeking Christ’s kingdom instead.

In this message, we break down what made Timothy different and how you can become the kind of person God can use in your relationships, church, and calling.

We also unpack:

- Why you don’t jump into leadership too soon

- The cost of following Christ (and losing friends because of it)

- How to trust God when you don’t have the full picture

- Why who you marry can disqualify you from ministry

Sermon from Amen Podcast’s “Stress Less” Philippians series.

TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 Opening story

2:10 Why Paul needed Timothy

5:20 The problem: seeking your own interests

7:10 The solution: be trained, be like a son

10:35 Trust God without the full picture

14:50 After the Amen discussion

20:20 Why people leave when you follow Christ

25:00 Who you marry matters

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Being a child of God is a privilege — and a responsibility. In Philippians 2:14-15, Paul says we're called to live without complaining, without arguing, without that dark inner dialogue — so we shine like stars in a crooked generation. In this episode, we talk about what it means to hold out the gospel unashamed, give everything like Jesus did, and stop holding back.

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You can't earn your salvation. So why does so much of Christian culture make you feel like you have to?In this episode of the Stress Less series, we look at Philippians 2:12-13, one of the most misunderstood verses in the Bible. "Work out your salvation with fear and trembling" has been used to load young Christians with anxiety and the constant question, "Is God disappointed in me today?" But Paul isn't telling you to earn anything. He's telling you to live out what God has already done.We talk about why a small view of Jesus produces a small reverence for Him, how the enemy's plan isn't to make you doubt Jesus exists but to make you think He's small, and how a big view of God leads to the freedom of a stress less life. Plus, why "it is God who works in you" is the cure for comparison, grind culture, and chasing social currency.After the Amen question: Where do you see God at work within you?

Watch the full Philippians "Stress Less" series here on our channel

Support: amenpodcast.com/donateStudy Guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nF99NLglCf7vD2Em9WadvCLmWOzDzfV-/view?usp=sharing

We are stressed because we are stuck thinking about ourselves. In Philippians 2:5-11, Jesus did not grasp His glory. He emptied Himself, served, and humbled Himself to the cross. Because we were never forgotten by God, we are free to forget ourselves. This is the freedom of self-forgetfulness, not something we achieve, but something we already have in Christ.

study guide: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aG3jG9SaUF1T7n2h8SK4Q2TcadGRdm02mGNgY9q-C1k/edit?usp=sharingDonate: https://amenpodcast.com/donateSubscribe to Email List: https://amenpodcast.com/subscribeAmen Podcast: https://youtube.com/amenpodcastAmen Podcast (spotify):

You Were Made for Deeper Community (Philippians 2:1-4), Stress-Less Series. amenpodcast.com/donate

Faith was never meant to be a solo sport. In this week's Stress Less episode, Pastor Alex unpacks Philippians 1:27-30 and the call to strive together. Paul tells the Philippians to push the gospel down the field as a team—standing firm, unafraid of opponents, and leaning on each other in seasons of hardship.

Free Study Guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-fxcrpldwv7P0bBJoQkZBKUx4y9HNdWW/view?usp=share_linkAlex and Lokelani talk through why we tend to pull away from community when life gets heavy, how to tell the difference between persecution and correction, and why your church family is worth prioritizing. Plus real stories from House Church Kauai and the milk and honey coffee shop on what it looks like to stay bold when the arrows come.You're in good company. Lock in, find your people, and don't go through this life alone.amenpodcast.com/donate

Paul wrote “to live is Christ, to die is gain” from a prison cell, not knowing if he’d live or die. And he was still steady, joyful, and free. In this episode we walk through Philippians 1:19-26 and unpack what it actually looks like to live that way, where Jesus is so much of your life that nothing, not even death, can shake you. We get into the fill-in-the-blank that exposes what you’re really living for, what it means to magnify Christ as a telescope to the church and a microscope to the world, and the grace that does the work in you so you stop white-knuckling your way into loving God.

After the Amen question: In what area of your life does Christ need to be magnified?

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study guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1panX8cYLFuG4EuSkZmmYjngx8wLUuJN8/view?usp=sharing

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Paul was in prison. People were preaching against him just to make his life harder. And he was still full of joy. How?

In this episode of the Amen Podcast, Alex and Lokelani jump back into our Philippians “Stress Less” series with chapter 1:12-18, an episode we’re calling FRUSTRATIONS. Because let’s be real, you’re frustrated with someone or something right now. A difficult season. A difficult person. Plans that got shut down. A baby that won’t sleep. A coworker climbing the ladder at your expense.

STUDY GUIDE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1b-dMfFmISf30NKg3sJ0ChlT76X0Z3wIt/view?usp=sharing

Paul knew that feeling. And he shows us that the very thing frustrating you is the thing God is using to advance His kingdom.

In this episode we talk about: • Why we actually NEED frustrations (and what they’re doing in us) • Why difficult PEOPLE last longer than difficult TIMES • The Matthew 7 plank-in-your-eye principle and how it kills frustration at the root • Why people use God to climb the ladder of fame (Mike Tyson, Theo Von, Steven Furtick conversation included) • A powerful picture from Pilgrim’s Progress (Feeble Mind & Ready-to-Halt) • Why our culture says “ghost them, quit, move, medicate” and why the gospel says something better • Lokelani on why she welcomes the suffering of having a big family in a culture that treats kids like a burden

If Christ is being proclaimed, even through your hardest season, nothing can ultimately frustrate you.

📖 Scripture: Philippians 1:12-18 🎙️ Series: Stress Less (Philippians)

After the Amen Question: What are the frustrations in your life that God is using to advance His kingdom? Drop your answer in the comments. We read them.

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#AmenPodcast #Philippians #StressLess #ReformedTheology #ChristianPodcast #BibleStudy #Frustration #Joy

Everyone talks about aesthetic. Your feed, your room, your coffee shop, your fit. But there’s a Greek word in the Bible that only shows up one time in the entire New Testament, and it might change the way you see your whole life.

In this episode of Amen Podcast, Pastor Alex and Lokelani Wilson walk through Philippians 1 verses 9 through 11 and unpack what Paul actually prayed for the church. Spoiler: it’s not about how your life looks. It’s about what you can see.

We talk about the difference between feeling something is off and knowing something is off, why love without knowledge falls apart, why knowledge without love falls apart, and the two questions that will help you discern almost any decision you face.

Plus, Lokelani shares what she’s discerning two days from her due date with baby number seven.

STUDY GUIDE:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aj-3GgGybbxqnMuhH9M-69V54QAn1yqt/view?usp=share_link

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Want to know more about Jesus or have questions about this episode? Send us a DM. We read every one.

How God’s Work In You Will Never Stop (Philippians 1:3-8)

Paul is on house arrest in Rome. Ten years removed from the Philippians. Awaiting a trial that could end his life. And when he picks up his pen to write to this little church in Macedonia, the first word out of his mouth isn’t fear. It’s joy.

This week we’re in Part 2 of the Stress Less series, walking through Philippians 1:3-8 and unpacking three distinct works of God: what He has done FOR us in salvation, what He is doing IN us through sanctification, and what He is doing THROUGH us in compassion for the body of Christ.

We also dig into why your local church isn’t a nice-to-have, why supplemental ministries like Amen Podcast only function well when believers are rooted in a Bible-teaching congregation, and how the Philippians’ partnership in the gospel made Paul’s imprisonment fruitful instead of futile.

Stick around for After the Amen, where Lokelani shares how this passage connects to motherhood, sanctification through serving others, and the joy of watching God work in the people around you.

Grab your Bible. Open to Philippians 1. Let’s go.

STUDY GUIDE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nuKp-6VQ_D5ZF487_rjbUpavmabTzBdu/view?usp=sharing

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Stress Less PT. 1

Paul wrote Philippians from a prison cell. The whole letter is about joy. How?

Welcome to Episode 1 of our new series, Stress Less: How the Cross is the Cure for Anxiety. We’re walking through the book of Philippians verse by verse to show you that you don’t have to live surprised by every hard thing that hits you.

In this episode, Alex unpacks Philippians 1:1-2 and shows three things that kept Paul calm in chains:

* His Master

* His Mission

* His Manner

Your master determines your manner. Your mission reveals your master. If you’ve ever been blindsided by suffering or shocked at how broken the world is, this series is for you.

Free study guide https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ha9YyJzR3Wvll3A5JCCSqF-r7qzDz7CA/view?usp=share_link

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Scripture: Philippians 1:1-2, Acts 16, Matthew 11:28-30, John 15

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We spent years in Matthew. And it ends here — not with a theology lecture, but with eleven doubting disciples on a mountain, a risen Jesus who doesn’t rebuke them, and a commission that changed the world.

STUDY GUIDE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nkkLG3gMG6BC7PHbM8Lm9NHdX0VMDQr6/view?usp=share_link

Matthew 28:16–20 is the final exhale of the greatest story ever told. And the thing that hits hardest isn’t the Great Commission itself — it’s who Jesus gives it to. Doubters. Men who walked with Him for three years, watched Him die, heard the women say He was alive, and still showed up to that mountain unsure of what they were even looking at.

And Jesus says: All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go.

In this episode we ask the question nobody wants to sit with — what is doubt actually costing you? Not just spiritually. In your marriage, your calling, your obedience, your worship. Because doubt isn’t neutral. If doubt takes root, death still reigns. Whatever you’re doubting God about — that thing has taken the throne. And the only cure isn’t more effort. It’s looking at the authority of Christ and saying to everything else: you’re not my dad.

We also get into the Trinity — why Jesus is equal in divinity but subordinate in function, what it means that a human being is seated on the throne right now, and why the resurrection is the proof that the one with all authority over your life actually loves you and wasn’t forced.

We close with the commission: Go. Baptize. Make disciples. Teach. And the promise underneath all of it — I am with you always, to the end of the age.

This is the end of Matthew. And it’s just the beginning.

📖 Scripture: Matthew 28:16–20 📚 References: Ray Ortlund, John Piper, 1 Corinthians 15, Romans, Ephesians 2:8–9

🎙️ New episode every week | Verse-by-verse through the Bible 🏠 House Church Podcast housechurchkauai.com: available everywhere 💛 Support us ad-free: amenpodcast.com | Venmo: @amenpodcast | Cash App: $amenalex

The religious leaders just heard the news — Jesus is risen. So they bribe the guards, spread a lie, and use every political connection they have to bury it.

None of it works.

In this episode we’re in Matthew 28:11–15 looking at three ways people try to move God — bribery, dishonesty, and policy — and why every single one fails. Because you cannot stop what God has already done.

If God is immovable, then in Christ, neither are you.

FREE EPISODE STUDY GUIDE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qZLhLS1UDeuIDtlhr-AG36UQa9YGmgKt/view?usp=share_link

Listen, support and study more at amenpodcast.com

The tomb is empty. That changes everything.

On the first Easter morning, two women showed up looking for a funeral — and got invited to a party. In this message from Matthew 28:1-10, we unpack three things the empty tomb means for your life today: you’re invited (not out of obligation, but love), God doesn’t just intervene — He gets involved, and His love for you is invincible.

If the tomb lacks a body, you lack nothing.

📖 Text: Matthew 28:1–10 🎙️ Amen Podcast — expository preaching through the Gospel of Matthew

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MATTHEW 27:62-66

In this episode, Alex walks through Matthew 27:57-61 and shows us three pictures of devotion from one of the most overlooked passages in the crucifixion story. Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus, and the two Marys weren’t doing anything spectacular. They were just doing what was right in front of them — and God was working through all of it in ways they couldn’t see.

If you’ve ever felt like your faithfulness doesn’t matter because it’s not big or bold or public, this one is for you.

In this episode:

* Why Joseph risked everything to ask Pilate for Jesus’s body

* What the myrrh reveals about following Jesus in the mundane

* Why sitting outside a tomb is one of the most powerful acts of devotion in Scripture

* How to follow Jesus even when you can’t see where He’s leading

📖 Passage: Matthew 27:57–61 (ESV)

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If this blessed you, share it with a friend who needs to hear it. And leave us a rating and review — it helps us reach more people.

Until then, go out and be the church. 🙏

Matthew 27:55-56. God came near, when we deserted Him. amenpodcast.com

In Christ, nothing can separated us from God. amenpodcast.com

Jesus didn’t just die — He was forsaken. For 3 hours, darkness covered the land, and the Son of God cried out “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” — and the Father didn’t answer.

In this episode, Alex walks through Matthew 27:46-50 and uncovers what actually happened in those 3 hours on the cross, why Jesus stopped calling God “Father,” and what it means that He declared “It is finished.”

If you’ve ever felt like God went silent on you, or if you’re still secretly trying to earn what Jesus already paid for — this one’s for you.

Topics covered: The 3 hours of darkness and what they represent | Why Jesus called God “God” instead of “Father” | What “It is finished” actually means for your everyday life | Why your salvation can’t be 99% — it has to be 100% | How bad theology leads us to look for salvation in the wrong places

📖 Matthew 27:46-50 | Psalm 22 | Habakkuk 1:13 | John 10:17-18

Support the show → amenpodcast.com | Venmo: @amenpodcast | Cash App: $amenalex

Most people think they’re going to heaven. But Jesus says the road to life is narrow — and few find it. Not many. Few.

In this episode of the Amen Podcast, Alex and Lokelani sit in Matthew 7:13-14, right at the end of the Sermon on the Mount, and unpack one of the most sobering passages in all of Scripture. The wide road is crowded, comfortable, and covered in destruction. The narrow road is hard, lonely, and crushing — and it leads to life.

We talk about:

* Why the wide road isn’t just for atheists — it’s full of religious people

* What the Greek word for “hard” actually means (hint: it’s about grapes)

* The difference between the general call and the effectual call of God

* Why you didn’t find the narrow road — it found you

* What Pilgrim’s Progress teaches us about the narrow gate

* The Zoe life — and how to recognize it in your own story

After the Amen: Are YOU on the narrow road?

📖 Matthew 7:13-14 | Matthew 22:14 | John 10:9 | Matthew 13:44

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Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who needs to hear it.

When the sky went dark at noon, it wasn’t just a weather event—it was God marking the moment His wrath fell on Jesus for our sin.

In this episode, we explore the darkness that covered the land during Jesus’s final three hours on the cross. We dive into what darkness meant in the Old Testament, why God dwells in “unapproachable light,” and how the fear of the Lord is actually the beginning of knowing Him.

Jesus entered the impenetrable darkness of God’s wrath so we could walk in His light. This changes everything.

AFTER THE AMEN QUESTION: What is a small view of God that you have that needs to change?

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There were two men named Jesus at the trial. One was a murderer and rebel. The other was the Messiah. The crowd chose the criminal over the Savior.

But here’s the real question: Which Jesus would YOU choose today?

In this message, we break down the shocking differences between Jesus Barabbas and Jesus Christ—and why we’re still tempted to follow the wrong one. From making a name for ourselves to shaking peace instead of making it, this is a challenge every Christian needs to hear.

🔑 KEY POINTS: • The choice between two different Jesus’s • Barabbas: notorious, proud, violent, self-promoting• Christ: gentle, lowly, peaceful, self-sacrificing • Why we still choose the wrong Jesus today • How Jesus switched places with Barabbas (and us) • Which Jesus does YOUR life show?

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Intro: The Choice 2:33 - Would We Still Choose Wrong? 6:11 - Barabbas the Murderer 11:19 - Peacemakers vs Peace Shakers 14:20 - Making a Name vs Lifting His Name 20:14 - Jesus Died FOR You, Not WITH You 23:21 - After the Amen Q&A

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💬 AFTER THE AMEN QUESTION: By examining your life, which Jesus does your life show?

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If this challenged you, leave a comment and let us know which Jesus you’re choosing today. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear this!

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Why did Jesus stay completely silent when falsely accused? And what does that mean for you when people come after you?

In Matthew 27:12-14, Jesus stands before Pilate while the religious leaders hurl accusations at Him—and He doesn’t say a single word. Pilate is shocked. But Jesus’s silence wasn’t weakness—it was sovereign obedience.

In this episode, we break down: ✓ Why Jesus chose silence over self-defense ✓ The prophetic fulfillment of Isaiah 53 ✓ How Christ’s silence gives us a defense before God ✓ When YOU need to stop defending yourself ✓ Trusting God’s sovereignty when falsely accused ✓ Real-life examples of choosing silence over conflict

The hard truth: Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is shut up and trust God. Not every attack needs a response. Not every accusation deserves your energy.

Jesus didn’t defend Himself so that WE would have a defense on Judgment Day. That changes everything.

Question for you: Where in your life do you need to stand silent before your accusers?

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What does your life say about Jesus?

The religious leaders had to LIE about who Jesus was to manipulate Pilate into killing Him. They twisted the truth to get what they wanted. But here’s the thing – our lives are constantly telling a story about Christ too.

Whether through our words, actions, priorities, or choices, we’re either bearing witness to the truth of who He is, or we’re distorting His character to a watching world.

In this episode, we break down Matthew 27:11 where Jesus stands before Pilate and ask the hard question: What lie or truth is YOUR life teaching about Jesus?

From worry and compromise to how we treat others and handle sin – every part of our lives communicates something about the King we claim to serve.

This isn’t about condemnation. Jesus greets us with love, not shame. But if He’s that good, isn’t He worthy of us telling the truth about Him with how we live?

Let’s dive in.

TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Intro: What Story Is Your Life Telling? 2:19 - Jesus Before Pilate (Matthew 27:11) 6:01 - The Religious Leaders Had to LIE 9:00 - Every Religion Lies About Jesus 12:36 - What Are YOU Saying About Christ? 18:22 - Jesus Was Forsaken So You Could Be Forgiven 21:03 - After the Amen Q&A 28:29 - Final Thoughts & Application

SUPPORT THE PODCAST This ministry is 100% listener-supported and ad-free. Donate: amenpodcast.com Venmo: @amenpodcast Cash App: $amenalex

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What if the “new thing” God wants to do in your life isn’t actually new to Him at all? In this New Year message from Isaiah 43:19, we explore how God’s salvation isn’t just a past event - it’s springing forth right now in your life. Just like He delivered Israel from Babylon, He’s delivering you from your own captivity today.

We break down what it means that God is a river in your wasteland and a roadway through your wilderness. If you’re facing chaos or lifelessness in any area of your life, this message will give you courage to embrace the change that comes with God’s new work in you.

The resurrection proves God will never change how He feels about you - which means you can face anything new with confidence. Whether it’s a new job, relationship, or season of life, you can step into it knowing the same living water that raised Christ from the dead is flowing through you right now.

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Ever wondered why Paul and Silas were singing in prison at midnight? 🎵

In this special Christmas episode recorded live at House Church, we dive into Acts 16 and discover the real power behind worship—it’s not about the words we sing, but WHO we’re singing to.

When you’re wrongfully accused, mistreated, or stuck in a situation you didn’t create, what’s your first response? Payback or praise? Paul and Silas chose praise, and it literally shook the prison walls.

This message will challenge you to: ✨ Understand the true source of power in worship ✨ Choose praise over payback when you’re persecuted ✨ Sing through your problems—even when it looks crazy

Key Takeaway: True praise comes from a changed perspective. Jesus took our prison on the cross to set us free. When you remember that, no earthly chain can really hold you.

After the Amen Question: What problems in your life do you need to sing through?

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That feeling when something small seems like no big deal? Like skipping your quiet time just this once, or that harmless compromise you keep making?

In this episode, I’m preaching through Matthew 27:1-10, examining how Judas’s betrayal of Jesus didn’t start with thirty pieces of silver—it started way smaller than that. Just like American Airlines Flight 191 didn’t crash because of one catastrophic failure, but because of one tiny bolt that nobody checked.

Here’s the beautiful truth: if small compromises lead to big consequences, then small acts of faithfulness lead to big kingdom impact. Jesus himself only ministered for three years within a thirty mile radius of his hometown, yet his obedience brought salvation to the world.

What you’ll learn:

* The difference between remorse and repentance (and why it matters)

* How the Sanhedrin’s “small” unfaithfulness led to catastrophic consequences

* Why the ordinary, mundane things in your life matter more than you think

* Practical steps to check the “bolts” in your life before they lead to disaster

Key Question: What is the bolt you need to check today?

📖 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Matthew 27:1-10

💬 CONNECT WITH US:

* Website: amenpodcast.com

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🎙️ ABOUT AMEN PODCAST: Join Pastor Alex and Lokelani as they dive deep into Scripture with practical, biblical teaching for young adult Christians. We’re a 501(c)3 ministry based in Kauai, Hawaii, committed to expository preaching without sponsorships or fluff—just the Word of God applied to everyday life.

If this message helped you, please like, subscribe, and share with a friend who needs to hear it!

#ChristianPodcast #BibleStudy #Matthew27 #Faithfulness #ChristianLiving #Discipleship

The Rich Young Ruler: What Are You Holding Onto?

We all have something we’re clutching that we don’t want to let go of. In this episode, we break down the story of the rich young ruler from Mark 10 and explore what it really means to surrender to Christ.

A young man runs to Jesus asking, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” He’s moral, religious, and doing everything right. But Jesus looks at him with love and puts his finger on the one thing standing between him and the kingdom—his wealth. The man walks away sad.

Using the illustration of a monkey trap, we unpack how we’re just like this young ruler. We hold onto things (wealth, status, comfort, acceptance, desire) thinking they’ll save us, when Jesus is calling us to simply let go and experience the freedom that’s already ours in Him.

Key Points:

* Why Jesus challenges our self-righteousness

* The one thing we all lack: faith

* How idols are good things that become ultimate things

* Why surrender is easier when we see what Christ did for us

* What it means that eternal life starts now, not later

This isn’t just about rich people—it’s about all of us and what we’re trusting in for salvation, security, and satisfaction.

After the Amen segment: We share what we’re personally holding onto and challenge you to identify yours.

💬 COMMENT BELOW: What is something you’re holding onto that you need to surrender?

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Here’s a simple podcast description:

Why We Deny Jesus (And How to Stop) | Matthew 26:69-75

Peter denied Jesus three times in one night. A teenager cursed Jesus for $1,000. And if we’re honest, we deny Him too—for a smile, for acceptance, for FOMO, or just to fit in.

In this episode, we break down Matthew 26:69-75 and uncover three things: why we deny Jesus, the problem it creates (self-deception), and how to stop.

The truth is, when you deny Him, you’re not fooling anyone but yourself. Your new identity in Christ will always show—just like Peter’s accent gave him away that night.

But here’s the good news: God’s grip on you is infinitely stronger than your grip on Him. When you fall, you grieve with hope, knowing nothing can separate you from His love.

Let’s stop blending in with the world and start living like heaven is our home

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In this message, we explore one of the most powerful moments in Scripture: Jesus standing before His accusers in complete silence. While false witnesses lied about Him, while they spit on Him and beat Him, Jesus said nothing. His silence wasn’t weakness—it was strength, trust, and love.

We live in a world that tells us to defend ourselves, to speak up, to fight back. But what if God is calling you to be still? What if the most powerful thing you could do right now is trust Him to fight for you?

In this episode, we unpack Matthew 26:57-67 and discover why Jesus was silent, why being still is so hard for us, and how we can find the power to be still in our own lives. From the Israelites at the Red Sea to Jesus before the Sanhedrin, we see a consistent theme: the Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.

This message will challenge you to examine your own heart. When are you speaking when you should be still? What are you trying to control that you need to surrender? And how can you find healing by letting go and trusting God’s timing?

Join us as we learn what it means to truly be still and know that He is God.

Support the Amen Podcast at amenpodcast.com

Ever wondered what Jesus was really facing in the Garden of Gethsemane? It wasn’t just death—it was something infinitely heavier. In this powerful Bible study, we walk through Matthew 26:36-56, exploring Jesus’s darkest hour and the moment Judas betrayed him with a kiss.

What You’ll Discover:

* Why Jesus sweat drops of blood in the garden (and what that reveals about his humanity)

* The real meaning of “the cup” Jesus was about to drink

* How to actually fight temptation (watch AND pray—not just one or the other)

* Why Judas’s greeting was one of the most disrespectful acts in history

* What “speaking the truth in love” really means (and how it gets weaponized)

* Why Jesus didn’t call down 12 legions of angels to save himself

This Episode Addresses:

* The false teaching that Jesus didn’t have a real body

* Why your resolutions aren’t enough to keep you from falling away

* How Jesus empathizes with every weakness you face

* The weight of what Christ actually suffered for you

* Why the Garden of Gethsemane is called “the garden of crushing”

Support Amen Podcast: We’re 100% ad-free and sponsorship-free, running entirely on your generous donations. With Giving Tuesday coming up on December 2nd, please consider supporting our ministry:

* Website: amenpodcast.com

* Ways to Help Us Grow: 👍 Press the like button 📤 Share with a friend or family group chat ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

Connect With Us:

* Website: amenpodcast.com

* Location: Kauai, Hawaii

* House Church meets in our garage - come as you are!

This isn’t just another sermon—it’s an intimate Bible study between a husband and wife that will challenge how you think about obedience, surrender, and what Jesus truly accomplished for you in the garden.

If you’ve ever felt like your faith runs out when times get hard, or if you’ve struggled to understand what the cross really cost Jesus, this episode is for you.

Discussion Question: What stood out to you most from this passage? Drop your “amen” in the comments below! 👇

Matthew 25:31-46.REPOST BECAUSE ALEX ACCIDENTALLY DELTED IT.

*CORRECTION: HALLEL 113-118, NOT 116-118.*

Ever thought you’d never betray Jesus? Peter thought the same thing. In this episode, we dive into one of the heaviest passages in Scripture—Judas’s betrayal, Peter’s denial, and the Last Supper. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: we’re all Judas. We all betray Jesus for way less than 30 pieces of silver.

From understanding the true meaning of the Lord’s Supper to wrestling with why Jesus’s blood wasn’t shed in vain, this message will challenge how you see your own faithfulness to Christ. We also unpack particular redemption, God’s sovereignty, and the security we have as believers.

In This Episode:

* The real reason Judas betrayed Jesus (and why we do it too)

* What the Last Supper actually means (it’s not transubstantiation)

* Why Peter denied Jesus four times, not three

* How small betrayals lead to bigger ones

* The security of Jesus’s finished work on the cross

Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 1:34 - The Context: Passover Week 4:10 - Judas’s Betrayal & What We Betray Jesus For 9:03 - Preparing for the Last Supper 11:00 - “One of You Will Betray Me” 15:25 - The Difference Between Lord and Rabbi 17:12 - The Last Supper Explained (Not Transubstantiation) 23:31 - The Hillel: What Jesus and the Disciples Sang 26:31 - Peter’s Denial (Actually Four Times) 30:31 - Particular Redemption: Jesus’s Blood Wasn’t Spilled in Vain 35:38 - After the Amen: Where Have You Betrayed Jesus?

Connect With Us: 🌐 Website: amenpodcast.com 💰 Support: amenpodcast.com/donate 💵 Venmo: @amenpodcast 💵 Cash App: $amenalex

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If this episode challenged you, hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss our biblical teaching. And if you’ve been with us for a while, leaving a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts helps more people discover content that points them closer to Jesus.

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What does it look like to worship Jesus when everyone around you thinks you’re wasting your time?

In Matthew 26:1-13, we see two opposite responses to Jesus. Religious leaders plot His death in secret, thinking they’re in control. But Jesus knows exactly when He’ll die—on Passover, according to the Father’s plan. Then there’s Mary, who pours out expensive perfume on Jesus in extravagant worship. The disciples call it wasteful. Jesus calls it beautiful.

Mary’s name means three things: rebellious, bitter, and beloved. And if we’re going to follow Christ, we need to be like Mary—rebelling against evil, making people bitter with our worship, and knowing we’re deeply loved by God.

In this episode, we break down:

* Why Jesus was in control even when His enemies thought they had the upper hand

* What Mary’s extravagant worship teaches us about loving Jesus

* How to keep worshiping even when people around you don’t understand

* The connection between knowing you’re beloved and living boldly for Christ

If you’re facing opposition, persecution, or people who think your faith is “too much,” this message is for you.

💬 AFTER THE AMEN QUESTION: Where do you need to be more like Mary?

Drop your answer in the comments below!

🙏 SUPPORT AMEN PODCAST: This podcast is 100% donor-supported. If you’d like to help us keep preaching the gospel with simple application, you can give at:

* Website: amenpodcast.com/donate

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* Cash App: $amenalex

📱 CONNECT WITH US:

* Instagram: @amenpodcast

* Website: amenpodcast.com

📖 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: Matthew 26:1-13 (LSB)

If this episode encouraged you, hit that subscribe button and give us a thumbs up! It helps more people discover Amen Podcast.

Go out and be the church! ✌️

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Don’t Hide What God Gave You

What happens when fear makes you bury the gifts God gave you? In this episode, we break down Jesus’ Parable of the Talents and why faithfulness—not perfection—is what matters to God.

We’re diving into the fourth of Jesus’ five parables about His second coming, and this one hits different. It’s about a master who entrusts his servants with investments before going on a journey. Two servants double what they’re given. One servant? He digs a hole and hides it out of fear.

Jesus isn’t calling you to be perfect. He’s calling you to be faithful with what He’s given you—whether that’s hospitality, preaching, serving, or loving the people everyone else ignores. This parable shows us that slothfulness isn’t just laziness—it’s spiritual passivity. It’s wanting God without the work. It’s playing it safe when Christ never called us to be safe.

In this episode:

* Why faithfulness matters more than the size of your gift

* What it means to be a “good and faithful slave”

* How fear and passivity can bury your God-given talents

* Why Jesus took the place of the “worthless slave” on the cross

* How to identify and invest the gifts God has given YOU

After the Amen Question: What are the talents God has given you that you need to be more responsible with?

📍 Visiting Kauai? We’d love to have you at House Church! Text us at (808) 634-5422 for the address.

💬 Join the conversation: Follow us on Instagram and join our Amen Broadcast channel for group discussions and updates!

💰 Support the podcast: Visit AmenPodcast.com or give via Venmo (@amenpodcast) or Cash App ($amenalex)

Connect with us: 🎙 Website: AmenPodcast.com 📱 Instagram: @AmenPodcast ⛪️ House Church meets in our garage in Kauai, Hawaii

The Parable of the Ten Virgins: Are You Ready for Jesus’ Return? | Matthew 25:1-13

What if you looked ready for Jesus’ return but weren’t actually prepared? In this powerful third episode of our Parousia Parables series, we dive deep into one of Jesus’ most sobering warnings about His second coming.

The parable of the ten virgins isn’t just about waiting—it’s about being ready. Five were wise, five were foolish, and the difference came down to something that couldn’t be borrowed: oil. Join us as we unpack what this oil represents, why some believers won’t be ready when Jesus returns, and most importantly, how YOU can be prepared.

In This Episode: ✓ What the oil in the parable really represents ✓ Why looking like a Christian doesn’t make you one ✓ The shocking reality that some things can’t be borrowed ✓ How to truly be ready for Christ’s return ✓ The beautiful power of repentance in the Christian life

This isn’t about living in fear—it’s about running into the arms of a Savior who loves you so much He took your place. Don’t miss the party when the Bridegroom comes.

AFTER THE AMEN: We end with a powerful question: Are you ready? Plus a discussion on why repentance shouldn’t be a scary word but a beautiful reality in every believer’s life.

SUPPORT THE PODCAST: Venmo: @amenpodcast Cash App: $amenalex Website: amenpodcast.com

VISIT US: House Church Kauai Website: housechurchkauai.com DM us on Instagram for our contact info!

📍 Broadcasting from the beautiful island of Kauai, Hawaii

What happens when church leaders abuse their power? More importantly—what does Jesus expect from ALL of us when He returns?

In this episode, we break down Matthew 24:45-51, where Jesus gives a serious warning about faithful stewardship. This isn’t just for pastors—it’s for anyone trying to live for Christ in their 20s and figure out what God has entrusted to them.

We talk about: ✓ Why bad church leadership hurts so much (and what Jesus says about it) ✓ The real problem with waiting for Jesus to come back ✓ What it means to be a faithful steward of your time, talents, and treasures ✓ How integrity and hard work connect to eternal rewards ✓ Why Jesus took our punishment so we could receive His reward

The bottom line: Jesus is coming back, and when He does, He’s going to find us either faithfully stewarding what He’s given us—or not. The question is, which one will you be?

SUPPORT THE PODCAST: 💰 Donate: amenpodcast.com/donate 💸 Venmo: @amenpodcast 💵 Cash App: $amenalex

Your support keeps these episodes ad-free and helps us continue producing content every week!

CONNECT WITH US: 🌐 Website: amenpodcast.com 📍 Location: Kauai, Hawaii ⛪ Church: House Church (meets in our garage!)

Are you truly expecting Jesus to return, or have you gotten too comfortable in this world?

In this powerful message, Pastor Alex breaks down Jesus’s parable of the thief from Matthew 24:42-44 - the first of five parables about His second coming. Most Christians today are living like Jesus will never return, but He told us to stay AWAKE and stay ALERT because He’s coming like a thief in the night.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

* Why Jesus compared His return to a thief (and why that should change everything)

* The two ways we can stay ready for His coming

* What’s causing Christians to “fall asleep” spiritually

* How to live with true expectancy every single day

This is part 1 of our 5-part series on Jesus’s parables about His second coming. Don’t miss what could be the wake-up call your faith needs.

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Biblical Truth About the Rapture | Matthew 24:32-41

Everything you thought you knew about being "left behind" is backwards. The popular Left Behind series got it wrong, and it's time to set the record straight with what Scripture actually teaches.

In this episode, we dive deep into Matthew 24:32-41 to discover why being left behind is actually God's plan for His people, not a punishment. Using the account of Noah as our framework, we'll explore how the popular rapture theology from the 1990s has created an unbiblical escapism mentality that contradicts God's true plan for renewal, not escape.

Join us as we examine the historical origins of dispensational theology, break down the Greek text, and reveal how Christ was "taken" so that we could be "left behind" to reign with Him in the new heavens and new earth.

Support Our Ministry:

* Website: AmenPodcast.com

* Venmo: @amenpodcast

* Cash App: $amenalex

Key Scriptures Discussed:

* Matthew 24:32-41

* Genesis 7:23

* Romans 8:19-21

* Revelation 21:1-5

* Philippians 2:6-8

* 2 Peter 3:11-14

Connect With Us: House Church meets in our garage in Kauai, Hawaii. We're committed to reaching ages 18-30 with deep biblical truth that challenges mainstream Christian culture.

Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to join our community of believers seeking biblical truth over popular theology.

In this episode of Amen Podcast, we dive deep into one of Scripture's most debated passages about Jesus's second coming. We explore Matthew 24:29-31, where Jesus describes the sun being darkened, the moon losing its light, and stars falling from heaven.

What did Jesus really mean by these cosmic signs? Are they literal or symbolic? We examine the Old Testament connections to similar language used in Isaiah and Ezekiel when describing the fall of nations, and discover how Jesus uses this apocalyptic imagery to describe both the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD and His ultimate return.

We discuss the three key characteristics of Christ's second coming - it will be unmistakable, universal, and unstoppable - and why this truth should give Christians hope, remind us of our eternal home, and provide help in difficult times. Rather than constantly looking for subtle signs, we explore how believers should live ready every day, focusing on sharing the gospel with compassion and truth.

The episode concludes with practical application questions about living faithfully while anticipating Christ's return, emphasizing our call to be others-focused rather than comfortable in our faith.

Support this ministry at amenpodcast.com

Matthew 24 has been twisted to sell books and create fear. Here's what Jesus actually meant.

In this episode, Alex breaks down Matthew 24:15-28 and the "abomination of desolation" - revealing how this passage was Jesus giving His disciples specific instructions for surviving the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD, not a roadmap for modern end times predictions.

Discover why the rapture isn't biblical, how false teachers use confusion to control people, and what it means to live faithfully while waiting for Christ's return. This historical context will free you from doomsday anxiety and refocus your faith on what matters.

Key Topics:

* The true meaning of "abomination of desolation"

* Historical context of Jerusalem's destruction (70 AD)

* Why end times predictions miss the point

* Biblical patterns for fleeing evil

* Living faithfully vs. sign-seeking

Join Alex and Lokelani for biblical teaching that cuts through the noise and gets back to Scripture's clear message.

Support our ministry: amenpodcast.com Q&A segment included - stick around for practical application.

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In this episode, Pastor Alex explores Jesus' warning about persecution in Matthew 24:9-14. Learn about the three forms of persecution believers face - distress, being detested, and deception - and discover how true disciples respond by maintaining love, endurance, and faithful preaching even under pressure.

Drawing from personal experiences and biblical truth, this teaching reveals how Jesus pressed through persecution to give us the power to do the same, bringing glory to God in the process.

Key Topics:

* Understanding persecution in the end times

* Three forms of persecution Christians face

* How to press into God's love during hardship

* The power of the gospel in difficult seasons

Question for Reflection: How can you press into God's love amidst persecution?

Support this ministry: amenpodcast.com/donate Venmo: @amenpodcast | Cash App: @amenalex

Subscribe for weekly biblical teaching from House Church in Kauai, Hawaii.

Hosts: Alex & Lokelani Website: amenpodcast.com

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In this episode, Alex breaks down Jesus's teaching from Matthew 24:3-8 about the signs of the end times and what He meant when He called them "birth pains." Discover why wars, earthquakes, and false messiahs aren't immediate signs that the end is near, and how understanding this truth can bring peace instead of fear.

Key Points Covered:

* Why the disciples asked Jesus about the signs of His coming

* The problem with fear-based interpretations of current events

* How birth pains help us understand God's timeline

* What it means to be ready without being alarmed

* Why these signs will continue until Christ's return

From the Amen Podcast, hosted by Lokelani and Alex, this biblical teaching helps Christians navigate end times discussions with wisdom and peace rather than panic and speculation.

Bible Passage: Matthew 24:3-8

Support the podcast: AmenPodcast.com/donate

Website: AmenPodcast.com

After the Amen segment: How can viewing current troubles as birth pains change your perspective?

In this message from Matthew 24:1-2, we explore what happens when the disciples focus on the beauty and grandeur of the physical temple, while Jesus sees something entirely different - a temporary structure destined for destruction.

What we cover:

* Why the disciples couldn't believe Jesus would destroy something so magnificent

* The massive scale and beauty of Herod's temple

* The difference between focusing on what is seen (temporary) vs. unseen (eternal)

* How Jesus became the new temple - the true meeting place with God

* What it means that we are now temples of the Holy Spirit

* Identifying our own "temporary temples"

Key Scriptures: Matthew 24:1-2, John 2:19, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, 1 Peter 1:8

Jesus destroyed the temporary to give us the eternal. His body was broken so that we could become living temples where God meets with us right where we are.

After the Amen: Lokelani shares about how relationships can become temporary temples and the importance of enjoying one-on-one time with God.

Connect with us: Website: amenpodcast.com

Support: Venmo @amenpodcast | Cash App $amenalex

What are your temporary temples? Let us know in the comments

!

Welcome back to Amen Podcast! Join Alex and Lokelani as they conclude their powerful Song of Solomon series with this final episode on The Relentless Love of God from Song of Solomon Chapter 8.

What You'll Discover:

✨ How God's love is as strong as death and cannot be quenched by any flood💒 The beautiful picture of Christ as the bridegroom and the church as His bride🙏 Why God longs to hear from you in prayer - and how Jesus made that possible🛡️ The importance of preserving and protecting one another in the church community💍 How marriage reflects the unrelenting, exclusive love of Christ for His people

Key Highlights:

* Jesus praying three times in Gethsemane so heaven could hear from you

* The meaning behind "Set me as a seal upon your heart"

* Why God's love cannot be bought with any amount of wealth

* The role of spiritual brothers and sisters in protecting the community

* How our prayers rise like incense before God

About Amen Podcast:

We're Alex and Lokelani, broadcasting from beautiful Kauai, Hawaii, where we believe the gospel changes everything. Alex pastors House Church, which meets in our garage, and together we're passionate about making God's Word accessible and applicable to everyday life.

What's Next:

🔥 We're heading back to the Gospel of Matthew (we're in the 20s chapters!)📖 Continuing our study through Corinthians💭 Don't miss our "After the Amen" discussion question at the end!

Connect & Support:

🌐 Website: amenpodcast.com💰 Support us: Venmo @amenpodcast | CashApp $amenalex📱 We're completely listener-supported - thank you for making this possible!

Discussion Question:

How have you experienced God's unrelenting love in your own life? Share your thoughts in the comments below! 👇

If you're new to the podcast and joined us for Song of Solomon, stick around! Matthew and Corinthians are going to be incredible too. Whether you're single, married, or somewhere in between, this message will encourage your heart and deepen your relationship with Christ.

Like, comment, and subscribe if this blessed you! Let's grow this community together.

CONTENT DISCLAIMER

⚠️ Important Notice Before Viewing ⚠️

Content Warning: This episode contains mature discussions about sexual topics, sexual trauma, abuse, and intimate relationships. Viewer discretion is advised.

Age Recommendation: This content is intended for mature audiences (18+) and married couples, engaged individuals, or those preparing for marriage under pastoral guidance.

Mental Health Notice: If you are currently struggling with sexual trauma, abuse, or related mental health challenges, please consider watching this with a trusted counselor, pastor, or support person present. This content may be triggering for some viewers.

Not Professional Therapy: While we share personal experiences and biblical perspectives, this podcast does not replace professional counseling, therapy, or medical advice. For serious trauma or mental health concerns, please seek qualified professional help.

Theological Perspective: This content reflects our biblical understanding and personal experiences. We encourage you to study Scripture for yourself and discuss these topics with your local pastor or spiritual advisor.

Privacy Reminder: Personal testimonies shared in this episode are intended to bring hope and healing. Please respect the vulnerability of those who have shared their stories.

Support Resources:

* If you need immediate help: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988

* For sexual abuse survivors: RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673

* Find a biblical counselor: biblicalcounseling.com

Our Heart: We approach these topics with deep reverence, understanding that many carry pain in these areas. Our prayer is that Christ's love and healing would reach those who need it most.

Parental Guidance: Parents, please preview this content before sharing with teens or young adults, and consider discussing these topics together in an age-appropriate manner.

By continuing to watch, you acknowledge that you understand the nature of this content and accept responsibility for your viewing decision.

In this powerful episode, Alex and Lokelani dive deep into Song of Solomon chapter 7 to explore one of the most important yet often avoided topics in the church: sexual brokenness and God's path to healing.

What We Cover:

* How God re-describes us vs. how sin defines us

* The difference between "falls" and "flights" in our spiritual journey

* Biblical sexuality within marriage - treasures "new and old"

* Why our desires need to be rewired by God's love

* Personal testimonies of healing from sexual trauma

* The cross as the ultimate source of healing from sexual brokenness

Key Takeaway: Jesus was broken so that we could be healed. No matter what sexual brokenness you've experienced - whether from your own choices or at the hands of others - true healing comes only through the cross of Christ.

This is the second-to-last episode in our Song of Solomon series before we return to Matthew. We believe this message will bring hope and healing to many who have been carrying shame in silence.

Connect With Us: 🌐 Website: amenpodcast.com 💰 Support: amenpodcast.com/donate 📧 Substack: [Subscribe for written content - goal: 1,000 subscribers!] 📱 Instagram: @amenpodcast [Behind the scenes of House Church + episode supplements] 💸 Venmo: @amenpodcast 💰 Cash App: $amenalex

About Amen Podcast: Join Pastor Alex and Lokelani from Kauai, Hawaii as they teach through Scripture with authenticity and grace. Broadcasting from their garage church (House Church), they tackle the hard topics the church often avoids.

🙏 If this episode helps you or someone you know, please share it. We're praying this brings healing to many who need to hear these truths.

Next Episode: Final Song of Solomon chapter, then back to Matthew!

#SexualHealing #SongOfSolomon #BiblicalSexuality #ChristianPodcast #HouseChurch #AmenPodcast #Kauai #Hawaii #SexualBrokenness #ChristianMarriage #BibleStudy #Gospel #CrossOfChrist

Song of Solomon 6:4-13

What happens when conflict hits your relationships? In this powerful episode, Alex dives deep into Song of Solomon chapter 6 to reveal God's immutability - His unchanging nature - and how it transforms the way we handle conflict.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

* God's character never changes, even when we mess up

* How to start conflict resolution with affirmation (not accusations)

* Why commitment matters more than perfection in relationships

* The difference between biblical conflict and our culture's "serial relationships"

* Practical steps for handling disagreements in marriage, friendship, and with God

📖 Scripture Focus: Song of Solomon 6:4-13

Alex breaks down how Solomon responds to conflict with his wife - not with anger or rejection, but with affirmation, commitment, and reminders of her unique value. This mirrors exactly how God approaches us when we've messed up or pulled away from Him.

Whether you're single, married, engaged, or walking through relationship difficulties, this episode will encourage you that God's love for you never wavers, and it will equip you with biblical tools for healthier conflict resolution.

💬 After the Amen Question: How can you handle conflict in your life knowing God is unchanging?

🏝️ Connect with us:

* Website: amenpodcast.com/donate

* Support the podcast: Venmo @amenpodcast | CashApp $amenalex

📍 Broadcasting from Kauai, Hawaii | House Church meets in our garage!

Like, subscribe, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts - we'd love to hear how this episode impacted you!

What Do You Do When You Reject God? | Song of Solomon 5:2-6:3 | Amen Podcast

Welcome back to Amen Podcast! 🌺 Join Alex and Lokelani as they continue their deep dive through the Song of Solomon, exploring one of the most challenging aspects of our relationship with God - what happens when WE are the ones causing setbacks.

📖 What We Cover:

Scripture: Song of Solomon 5:2 - 6:3 (ESV)

In this powerful episode, we dive into:

* Why we sometimes reject God's call for intimacy (even as believers)

* The silly excuses we make when Jesus is knocking at our hearts

* How our guilt and shame "beat us up" when we turn away from Him

* What God does when we reject Him (spoiler: He doesn't abandon us!)

* The beautiful role of Christian community in restoration

* How reflecting on God's character draws us back to repentance

🌊 Key Takeaways:

✨ God knew what He was getting when He chose you - your sin doesn't surprise Him ✨ When we reject God, He goes to "work" - showing grace and pursuing us ✨ The church should help restore, not condemn, those returning to God ✨ "I am my beloved's and my beloved is mine" - His love never leaves us

💭 After the Amen Q&A:

We close with our signature "After the Amen" segment where we share what stood out to us most and invite YOU to share your thoughts in the comments!

🏝️ About Amen Podcast:

Broadcasting from beautiful Kauai, Hawaii, Alex (pastor of House Church) and Lokelani believe the gospel changes everything. We're committed to expository preaching through God's Word with practical application for everyday life.

🤝 Support the Ministry:

If this podcast has blessed you, please consider supporting us:

* Venmo: @amenpodcast

* CashApp: $amenalex

* Website: amenpodcast.com

🔔 Stay Connected:

* Subscribe and hit the bell for new episodes

* Share with friends who need to hear this message

* Leave a comment with your "Amen" from this episode

* Visit our website: amenpodcast.com

Bible Translation: ESV (English Standard Version

)

In this powerful episode from Song of Solomon chapter 4, Alex explores three beautiful ways Christ expresses His love for the church. Discover how Jesus pursues us with:

* Legal Love - He enters into an unbreakable covenant with us

* Affectionate Love - He calls us friends and delights in our company

* Passionate Love - He gave His life on the cross out of crazy love for us

Just like Solomon's bride is described as "a garden locked," believers are securely "locked in" with Christ - never to be separated from His love. This intimate picture from Scripture will transform how you see your relationship with Jesus and inspire you to bear fruit as His beloved.

Key Takeaway: When we truly understand how Christ sees us - beautiful, secure, and deeply loved - our lives naturally become fruitful gardens that reflect His glory.

Perfect for anyone wanting to deepen their relationship with Jesus and understand the security we have in Him.

Hosts: Alex & LokelaniSeries: Song of Solomon Study

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What makes a truly godly wedding? In this episode, we explore Song of Solomon 3:6-11 and discover why Solomon's wedding was radically different from modern American weddings. We discuss biblical gender roles, God's design for marriage, and how every earthly wedding points to our ultimate relationship with Christ. Plus, we share practical insights for planning Christ-centered weddings and living out biblical masculinity and femininity.

What are you searching for? In this powerful episode, we dive deep into Song of Solomon 3:1-5 to explore the universal human longing for safety, security, and love. Through the lens of a woman's desperate nighttime search for her beloved, we uncover three profound truths about our spiritual journey.

We begin with the story of the thief on the cross from Luke 23:39-43, setting the stage for understanding how God meets us in our most desperate moments. Then we explore what we're truly searching for - that deep desire for safety that drives us to seek security in all the wrong places. From the safest place (our bed) to our most vulnerable moments (our dreams), we examine why separation from God creates such profound anxiety in our hearts.

Discover how the fear of separation drives us to search frantically in the wrong places, and learn where true safety can actually be found. Just as the woman in Song of Solomon found her beloved "scarcely" past the watchmen, we'll see how Jesus is closer than we think - even in our darkest nightmares.

This episode challenges listeners to stop searching for safety in the wrong places and instead find their security in the One who entered our nightmare to end our separation forever. Through the cross, Jesus promises that our spiritual nightmare is over - we'll never be truly unsafe or alone again.

Key Takeaway: Repent from searching for safety in the wrong places. Face your separation and find Jesus in the scarcity.

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What if your biggest insecurity isn't actually bigger than belonging to Jesus? In this raw and honest episode, Alex and Loke dive deep into Song of Solomon 2:14-17 to uncover what insecurity really is and how to break free from it. From hiding in our "secure places" to learning to catch the little foxes that spoil our relationships, this episode will challenge how you think about your worth and identity.

Key Timestamps:

* 00:00 - Intro: Why we're uncomfortable talking about God's deep love for us

* 05:24 - Reading Song of Solomon 2:14-17

* 06:33 - What is insecurity? (Spoiler: it's about feeling unseen)

* 12:10 - Alex and Loke get vulnerable about their biggest insecurities

* 16:41 - Why we stay insecure: The little foxes that spoil relationships

* 22:33 - Plot twist: Catching foxes should actually be fun

* 24:54 - The real solution to insecurity (hint: it's not self-improvement)

* 30:13 - The question that changes everything about belonging

* 31:23 - After the Amen: Personal stories about being misunderstood

Main Takeaways:

* Insecurity = feeling unseen in areas you care deeply about

* Jesus calls us out of hiding because He sees us completely and still chooses us

* The "little foxes" are small things that destroy our relationships with God and others

* True security comes from knowing you belong to Christ, not from fixing yourself

Perfect for: Anyone struggling with self-doubt, people-pleasing, or feeling like they don't measure up. If you've ever hidden parts of yourself because you're afraid of being rejected, this episode is for you.

Support the show atamenpodcast.com/donateto keep us ad-free!

Waiting for Love: What the Bible Says About Marriage & Jesus' Return

Welcome back to another episode of Amen Podcast! Alex and Lokelani are broadcasting from the beautiful North Shore of Kauai, Hawaii, at the Hawaii Leadership Residency.

Episode Overview

In this powerful message, we dive deep into Song of Songs 2:8-13 to explore the biblical perspective on waiting - both for marriage and for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. If you're in a season of waiting and wondering what's next, this episode is for you.

What We Cover:

🔹 What Waiting Looks Like (verses 8-9)

* The balance between bounding over obstacles and respecting boundaries

* How Jesus jumped over mountains to reach us while still being a gentleman

🔹 Why Waiting Is Hard (verses 10-11)

* The importance of "beholding" - recognizing the signs of your season

* Not getting stuck in navel-gazing but looking up to see God's timing

🔹 How to Wait Well (verses 12-13)

* Looking for blossoming in your life and relationships

* Trusting God's perfect timing in all seasons

Key Takeaways:

✅ Healthy desire for your future spouse is actually a GOOD sign ✅ Jesus calls us at the "springtime of our soul" - His timing is perfect ✅ Being around godly married couples helps singles wait well ✅ Don't isolate yourself from church community during difficult seasons

Practical Application:

We end with our "After the Event" segment where we ask: Are you trusting His timing? Listen as Alex and Lokman share personal applications and practical advice for waiting well.

About Hawaii Leadership Residency

Want to spend a few months in Hawaii growing in your faith? Check out the Hawaii Leadership Residency program where you can:

* Attend house church teachings from various teachers

* Serve the local Kauai community

* Work with local kids through camp programs

* Grow in community with other believers

[Link in description for more info]

Support the Podcast

This episode and all our content is made possible by your generous support!

* Donate: amenpodcast.com/donate

* Learn more: amenpodcast.com

* Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it

* Subscribe and hit the notification bell

* Leave a review - we love reading them and they encourage us to keep going!

Connect With Us

We believe the Gospel truth is everything! Join our community of believers seeking to live out biblical truth in every area of life.

Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome from Kauai 01:17 - Introduction to waiting for marriage & Jesus' return03:01 - Song of Songs 2:8-13 reading 04:06 - What waiting looks like: Bounding & Boundaries 08:26 - Jesus stands at the door and knocks (Rev 3:20) 11:12 - Why waiting is hard: The importance of beholding 16:42 - How to wait: Looking for blossoming 18:32 - Jesus as the gardener of our souls 24:47 - After the Event Q&A segment

#ChristianPodcast #BiblicalMarriage #SongOfSongs #ChristianDating #Hawaii #Waiting #Godstiming #Marriage #Jesus #Faith #Podcast

Song of Solomon 1:16 - 2:7

* Recording from the mountains of Kauai - a place of beauty and peace

* This is sermon #4 in the Song of Solomon series

* Topic: "Crazy Love" - the passionate, movie-like love we see in Scripture

I. What Crazy Love Looks Like (1:16-2:3)

A. Beautiful and Delightful (1:16-17)

* "You are beautiful, my beloved. Truly delightful"

* Their "couch is green" - outdoor intimacy in God's creation

* Building a life together with quality materials (cedar, pine)

* Crazy love says "I want to start a life with you, not just be roommates"

B. Standing Out Among Others (2:1-3)

* She: "I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley" (I'm ordinary)

* He: "You are a lily among brambles" (You stand out to me)

* She: "He is like an apple tree among forest trees" (He stands out to me)

* This is the "only eyes for each other" kind of love we long for

C. Protection and Provision (2:3)

* "I sat in his shadow" - finding protection and provision

* "His fruit was sweet" - enjoying his care and leadership

* Crazy love includes a man's commitment to protect and provide

II. Why We Miss This Kind of Love (2:4-6)

A. We Look for Joy in the Wrong Places (2:4)

* "He brought me to his banqueting house" - the place of joy and celebration

* We seek joy in money, power, fame instead of relationship with Christ

* We fly different banners over our lives instead of His banner of love

B. We Choose Pleasure Over Covenant (2:5-6)

* "I am sick with love" - she's lovesick but chooses to wait

* "Sustain me with raisins" - being practical instead of giving in to desire

* We go straight to pleasure instead of building on covenant

* Same with our relationship with God - we want feelings without the gospel's hard truths

C. We Don't See the Full Picture (2:6)

* "His left hand under my head, his right hand embraces me"

* She's thinking about their whole life together - spiritual, physical, financial

* We focus on just one aspect instead of the complete person/relationship

III. How to Get Crazy Love Right (2:7)

A. The Power Source

* "By the gazelles and does of the field" (sounds like "Lord of Hosts" and "God Almighty" in Hebrew)

* Only God's power can help us do relationships His way

B. God's Timing

* "Do not stir up or awaken love until it pleases"

* Don't force it too early, don't delay it too long

* Wait for God's perfect timing, just as Jesus did

C. Following God's Design

* Marriage as covenant, not just roommates

* Obedience to God's design brings abundance and protection

* Like driving within the lane lines - stepping outside God's intention is dangerous

Conclusion

* God offers us both the "safe choice" and the "wild" passionate love

* Jesus is both the responsible provider and the passionate lover of our souls

* True crazy love is only possible through covenant relationship

* The earthly marriage is just a hint of our eternal marriage with Christ

Application Questions

* What stood out to you in this message?

* Are you looking for joy in God's banqueting house or somewhere else?

* How can you better see the "full picture" in your relationships?

* Are you waiting for God's timing or trying to force/delay love?

Retry

A

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Amen Podcast Episode Description

Episode Title: Crazy Love: What the Bible Says About Passionate Romance | Song of Solomon Series #4

Description:

What if God wants you to experience the kind of crazy, passionate love you see in movies - not despite being a Christian, but because of it?

In this episode recorded from the beautiful mountains of Kauai, we dive into Song of Solomon 1:16-2:7 to discover what "crazy love" actually looks like in Scripture. You might be surprised to learn that the Bible doesn't just endorse safe, practical relationships - it celebrates the kind of dizzying, movie-like romance that makes you want to build a whole life with someone.

In this episode, we explore:

* Why biblical love is both wild AND wise (it's not either/or!)

* The difference between building a marriage vs. just being roommates

* Why we miss out on crazy love (hint: it's about covenant, not just feelings)

* How to know when it's the right time to "awaken love"

* What separate bedrooms and delayed intimacy reveal about our hearts

* Why God's design for relationships leads to the deepest satisfaction

We also discuss how our relationship with Christ mirrors this passionate love - He's both the "safe choice" and the "wild" lover of our souls who went to crazy lengths to pursue us.

Whether you're single, dating, engaged, or married, this episode will challenge you to see God's design for love in a fresh way and help you understand why doing relationships His way leads to the kind of romance movies try to capture.

Recorded on location in the mountains of Kauai

🎧 Questions for reflection: What stood out to you? Are you looking for joy in the right places? How can you see the "full picture" in your relationships?

💝 Support the podcast: Visit amenpodcast.com/donate to help us continue creating content like this

#SongOfSolomon #ChristianDating #BiblicalMarriage #CrazyLove #Romance #Relationships #Podcast #Hawaii #Kauai

Song of Solomon Series: From Raven to Dove

What does it mean to truly love and be loved? In Song of Solomon 1:9-15, we discover pure love - the kind that makes you stand out like a treasured mare among royal chariots.

But here's the problem: we're broken. We're attracted to what hurts instead of what's beautiful. Like restless ravens, we fly to and fro, refusing Christ's adornment and rejecting his fragrance for our own stench.

Christ transforms our wandering hearts into something still and fragrant - turning us from ravens into doves. He quiets our restless souls and fills us with his aroma.

The question is: what do your eyes reveal about the condition of your heart? Are they raven eyes or dove eyes?

Key Takeaways:

* Pure love means standing out in someone's eyes

* Our broken senses are attracted to stench instead of fragrance

* Christ adorns us with grace and makes us still

* Transformation happens when we stop flying restlessly and return to him

Based on Song of Solomon 1:9-15 and Genesis 8

Song of Solomon Series #2. Verses 1:5-8. What makes a person attractive is it their looks is it their intelligence? Is it their status? Is it their success God has a different standard for attraction. There is a certain beauty that is eternal and impossible to ignore. It is all inspiring and ours in Christ Jesus. Today we look at song of Solomon chapter 1:5-8 to know how to be attractive as a Christian. amenpodcast.com

Are you tired of playing the dating game and losing? In this episode, Alex and Loke break down Song of Solomon 1:1-4 to reveal what actually attracts godly women. Spoiler: It's not your bank account or gym gains.

Discover why having "fragrant character" matters more than cologne, when to pursue vs. when to chill, and why your community's opinion of your relationship actually matters. Plus, learn the biblical balance between using your head AND your heart in dating.

Perfect for Christian guys navigating modern dating, engagement, or early marriage. Stop guessing what she wants - God already laid out the blueprint.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

* The character traits that make you "marriage material"

* Who should pursue who (the answer might surprise you)

* Why virgins loved Solomon (and it's not what you think)

* How to know if your relationship is God-approved

New episodes weekly. Like, subscribe, and let's grow together!

Jesus's confrontation with the religious leaders in Matthew 23 represents one of His most direct and severe rebukes in Scripture. These final "woes" reveal the depth of religious hypocrisy and its consequences. This passage shows both God's judgment against hypocrisy and His heart of compassion for His people.

- Key question: Are we cultivating authentic righteousness or merely maintaining religious appearances?

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Matthew 23:25-26.

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Beware of False Leadership: Jesus' Warning Against Religious Hypocrisy | Matthew 23:15 Bible Study. amenpodcast.com

Matthew 23:14 KJV. amenpodcast.com

In this powerful episode, Alex unpacks Jesus' warning against religious pride and self-promotion, drawing parallels to Moses' mistake at the waters of Meribah. Through biblical insight and practical application, this message challenges listeners to examine their hearts and embrace true servant leadership in the pattern of Christ.

Whether you're a church leader or simply seeking to grow in your faith journey, this episode offers timely wisdom on the dangers of self-exaltation and the freedom found in humility.

Episode Outline:

Introduction (00:00-01:01)

* Welcome to Amen Podcast

* Topic introduction: Making disciples of Jesus, not ourselves

* Scripture reading: Matthew 23:1-7

The Consequence of Self-Exaltation (01:25-05:29)

* The story of Moses striking the rock (Numbers 20:10-13)

* God's response: "You did not trust me to demonstrate my holiness"

* Moses' desire for honor instead of pointing people to God

* The cost of Moses' pride: not entering the Promised Land

Jesus Confronts Religious Leaders (05:30-10:11)

* Setting: Holy Week before Jesus' arrest and crucifixion

* Jesus addresses crowds and disciples about scribes and Pharisees

* The "chair of Moses" and its authority

* "Do what they say, not what they do"

The Burden of Religious Performance (10:12-14:55)

* How religious leaders burden people but won't help them

* Seeking to be seen by others, not by God

* Explanation of phylacteries and tassels

* Enlarging religious symbols to appear more spiritual

* Seeking honor, best seats, and special titles

The Path of Humility (14:56-20:00)

* Jesus' warning: "Don't be called rabbi, father, or instructor"

* "The greatest among you will be your servant"

* "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled"

* God's grace to Moses despite his failure

* Joshua (Jesus) as the true leader into the Promised Land

Application for Today (20:01-33:13)

* The danger of seeking honor in Christian spaces

* The authenticity of house church vs. performance-based Christianity

* How religious rules can become burdens

* Being careful of spiritual pride and works-based religion

* Finding joy in service rather than recognition

Closing (33:13-end)

* Prayer

* Q&A invitation: "What is your amen?"

* Final thoughts on burdens vs. freedom in Christ

https://amenpodcast.com

Welcome to the Amen Podcast, where we believe that the gospel changes everything. Today's message explores Matthew 22:41-46, where Jesus challenges the Pharisees with a profound question about his identity.

Scripture Reading: Matthew 22:41-46

Now, while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus, asked them a question, saying, "What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?" They said to him, "The Son of David." He said to them, "How is it then, that David in the spirit calls him Lord, saying, 'The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet?' If then David calls him Lord, how is he his son?" And no one was able to answer him a word, nor from that day did anyone dare to ask him any more questions.

The Big Revelation: Jesus is More Than You Think

I was watching surfing with my son Leon recently. He had a sudden interest in it, partly because he wanted to connect with something I enjoy, but also because he's spent enough time in the water himself to understand the scale of those waves.

When you don't surf or go to the ocean much, every wave looks the same. It all blends together - same guy, same wave, over and over. But the closer you get to surfing, the bigger the experience becomes.

It's the same with the Lord. The closer you get to God, the bigger He gets to you.

The Pharisees were far from God, even though Jesus—God Himself—stood right before them. This distance is evident in their approach to Jesus with questions meant to trap Him.

A Question That Silenced the Religious Leaders

Throughout Holy Week, Jesus faced continual challenges from His enemies. After answering their questions perfectly, Jesus turns the tables. He asks them: "What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?"

They quickly answered "Son of David," as any Jewish person would. This wasn't wrong - Matthew's gospel begins by identifying Jesus as "the Son of David, the son of Abraham" to connect Him to messianic prophecy.

But Jesus pushes deeper: "How is it then that David, inspired by the Spirit, calls him Lord?" quoting Psalm 110:1. Jesus points out a paradox they couldn't resolve: Why would David call his own descendant "Lord"?

The Pharisees had no answer. They couldn't reconcile how the Messiah could be both David's son (his descendant) and David's Lord (his superior).

The Big Problem Behind Our Small Problems

The Pharisees missed something crucial: They thought the Messiah would be merely a national leader who would free them from Rome. They saw their biggest problem as Roman occupation.

But Jesus reveals that the Messiah's role is much bigger—universal, not just national. Their actual problem wasn't Rome but sin and death. This required a Messiah greater than they imagined—not just the Son of David but the Son of God.

When God appears bigger to us, our problems don't necessarily get smaller. Instead, we realize that our true problem—sin and death—is actually much larger than our daily concerns. But this realization gives us peace because we have a Savior big enough to handle our greatest problem.

The Waves of Sin and Death

Think about surfing again. From the beach, waves might look manageable. But as you paddle out and get closer, you realize their true size and power. The closer Jesus got to the cross, the more real His suffering became. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He sweat drops of blood as the "wave" of our sin loomed before Him.

Yet Jesus paddled toward that wave willingly, holding nothing back. The crushing weight of sin and death—our biggest problem—overwhelmed Him completely. But three days later, He rose from the dead, defeating what was previously undefeatable.

If Jesus conquered sin and death—our greatest problem—then why do we let smaller problems defeat us? When we see God as truly big, we recognize how holy He is and how sinful we are. But we also see that if Christ defeated our biggest problem, then no matter how overwhelming our daily challenges seem, they're nothing compared to what Jesus has already overcome for us.

Living in Light of the Resurrection

This perspective change comes from spending time with God—praying, reading Scripture, attending church, and surrounding yourself with believers. Don't let small problems consume you when your biggest problem has already been solved.

What scares you about your problems? Maybe it's taxes, and you worry: "What if they take all my money?" But dig deeper, and the fear is really: "What if I'm not going to be all right?" which ultimately points to fear of death.

Or with relationships: when someone breaks up with you, what you feel isn't just rejection—it's as if you're going to die. These "small" problems mask our ultimate fear of sin and death.

But once you realize Jesus has taken care of sin and death, you can face any challenge with confidence. If Christ is with you through your problems, and He has already handled your biggest problem, then you can handle whatever comes your way.

After the Amen: Application

Lokelani’s Amen: We often worry about the wrong things—small problems instead of the big one. What's freeing is living in confidence knowing that the answer to my biggest problem is settled. Why am I consumed by smaller worries when Jesus has already answered my greatest need

?

Alex's Amen: My small problem that feels big is fear that people will discover "I'm not that awesome" and leave me. This fear is really about sin winning in my life. But sin won't win—it's already been defeated. And I'll never be alone because the One who loves me most will never leave or forsake me.

That's how the gospel changes everything in our lives. We make small problems the big problem when they're not. But Christ is bigger than we think, and our biggest problem has already been answered.

Do you want to be encouraged throughout your week? Subscribe to Amen Podcast on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @amenepodcast and visit amenepodcast.com to support our ministry.

Until next time, go out and be the church!

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Matthew 22:34-40 Bible Study

From the Amen Podcast with Alex and Lokalani

Scripture Reading

But when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together and one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the law?" And he said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets."

— Matthew 22:34-40 (ESV)

Context

In this passage, Jesus faces the third and final question from religious leaders trying to trap him during Holy Week. The Pharisees had already tried to entrap him with a question about taxes. The Sadducees had attempted to trick him with a theological puzzle about resurrection. Now, a lawyer from the Pharisees tests Jesus about which of the 613 commandments in the law is greatest.

Christ's answer is brilliant and silences his critics. He doesn't simply pick one law over the others—he summarizes the entire law by combining two passages:

* Deuteronomy 6:5 — "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might."

* Leviticus 19:18 — "You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord."

Key Points

1. The Command Is Also an Invitation

When Jesus answers with "love God and love your neighbor," he's not just giving a command; he's offering an invitation to freedom. God's commandments were never meant to be oppressive rules but a pathway to life, joy, and communion with Him and others.

2. Love God, Love People

This "greatest commandment" is comprehensive and binary:

* Vertical relationship: Love God with your whole being

* Horizontal relationship: Love your neighbors as yourself

Every other commandment flows from these two principles. If we love God truly, we will keep His commandments. If we love our neighbors, we will not harm them but seek their good.

3. The Example of Onan: Breaking the Greatest Commandment

In Genesis 38:8-10, we see Onan refusing to fulfill his duty to his deceased brother's wife, Tamar. By selfishly seeking his own gratification without responsibility, Onan:

* Failed to love God by disrespecting His plan for the family lineage

* Failed to love his neighbor (Tamar) by denying her security and protection

This story illustrates how we become selfish when we break the greatest commandment. We choose gratification over responsibility, personal desires over the needs of others.

4. Christ Perfectly Fulfilled the Commandment

Jesus is the only one who perfectly loved God and others:

* He loved God so much that he was obedient to death on a cross

* He loved his neighbors (us) so much that he laid down his life for us while we were still sinners

Jesus didn't just teach the greatest commandment—he demonstrated it through his sacrifice.

Application Questions

* How can you love God more fully this week? Consider practical ways to express your love through obedience, worship, and time with Him.

* Who is your "neighbor" that needs your love right now? Think about family members, coworkers, church members, and actual neighbors who might need encouragement, forgiveness, or practical help.

* In what areas of your life are you being selfish like Onan? Where are you choosing gratification over responsibility?

* How has your perspective on God's commands changed? Do you see them as restrictive rules or as invitations to freedom and love?

* What gifts has God given you that you can use to love others in your church community?

Closing Thoughts

When we shift our mindset from "I have to love God and others" to "I get to love God and others," everything changes. This isn't just a duty—it's a privilege and the pathway to true joy.

The more we walk in obedience, the more natural loving God and loving others becomes. As we grow in Christ, we find that loving others flows more easily from us because God's own love fills our hearts.

Remember: To love God is to obey Him. To love others is to serve them. And in doing both, we experience the life Jesus intended for us.

"How can you love God and love others?" Share your answers in the comments below!

Prayer

Father, thank you for your leadership and for teaching us in ways we never expected. Help us to remember that loving you and loving others is not merely a command but an invitation to experience life as you designed it. Guide us to love you through our obedience and to love others through service and sacrifice. In Jesus' name, amen

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Continuing our series on Matthew 22

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When Religious Critics Attack

In our ongoing exploration of Matthew 22, we encounter Jesus facing his second challenge of the day. After silencing the Pharisees, Jesus now confronts the Sadducees, who approach Him with skepticism and mockery about the resurrection.

The passage (Matthew 22:23-34) reveals how Jesus masterfully responds to those who attempt to trap Him with theological questions. This interaction provides powerful lessons for believers today who face criticism or mockery for their faith.

Who Were the Sadducees?

Before diving into Jesus' response, it's important to understand who the Sadducees were:

* They only accepted the Torah (the first five books of the Bible) as authoritative scripture

* They rejected the concept of resurrection because they found no explicit mention of it in the Torah

* They were part of the religious establishment that felt threatened by Jesus' growing influence

The Trick Question

The Sadducees approached Jesus with what they believed was a foolproof theological trap:

"Teacher, Moses said if a man dies having no children, his brother must marry the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. Now there were seven brothers among us. The first married and died, and having no offspring, left his wife to his brother. So too the second and third, down to the seventh. After them all, the woman died. In the resurrection, therefore, of the seven, whose wife will she be? For they all had her."

Their question referenced Deuteronomy 25:5-6, the law of levirate marriage designed to preserve family lines. By creating this extreme scenario involving seven brothers marrying the same woman, they hoped to mock the very concept of resurrection that Jesus taught.

Jesus' Two-Fold Response

Jesus doesn't hesitate or become defensive. Instead, He identifies two critical flaws in their thinking:

* "You know neither the Scriptures..." - Despite their supposed expertise in the Torah, they missed its deeper teachings about eternal life

* "...nor the power of God" - They limited God's abilities to their own understanding of reality

Jesus then explains that marriage is an earthly institution, not continued in heaven the same way. More powerfully, He uses their own accepted Scripture against them, quoting Exodus: "I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob." By emphasizing that God "is not the God of the dead, but of the living," Jesus affirms the resurrection from within the very Torah they claimed to revere.

Silencing Enemies God's Way

This passage teaches us vital lessons about dealing with those who mock or criticize our faith:

* Stay grounded in Scripture - Jesus didn't rely on eloquence or personal attacks but on the truth of God's word

* Trust in God's power - When we limit God to our understanding, we miss His greater purposes

* Let God silence critics - Rather than seeking personal vengeance, allow God's truth to speak

A Personal Example

I'm reminded of our own journey in ministry. Years ago, my husband and I began creating Christian content online, facing mockery and criticism from many who thought it was "weird" or "cringe." A year before COVID-19, we felt led to start digital church services despite skepticism.

When the pandemic hit, what had seemed foolish to critics suddenly became essential. The infrastructure we had built became a lifeline for thousands seeking spiritual nourishment during lockdowns. Without fighting our critics or defending ourselves, God vindicated our efforts through His timing and provision.

The Final Word

The crowd's reaction to Jesus' response says it all: "they were astonished at his teaching." The Sadducees, who came to trap Jesus, found themselves silenced instead.

This remains true for believers today. When we face opposition, mockery, or attempts to undermine our faith, we don't need to fight back in our "own power, own pride, or own vengeance." Instead, like Jesus, we can rely on God's Word and God's power.

God will get the final word. His Word will not return void. Our call is to remain faithful, continue in what He's called us to do, and trust Him with the results.

"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." - Hebrews 4:12

Join us next week as we continue our series through Matthew 22 with Jesus' third response to His critics.

Prayer Prompt: Where in your life do you need to trust God to silence critics rather than fighting them yourself? Spend time asking God to help you know His Word more deeply and trust His power more fully.

If this post encouraged you, please share it with others and subscribe to receive our weekly devotionals directly to your inbox.

By Alex and Lokelani

Welcome to our Substack! As promised, we're providing deeper content to complement Amen podcast. This is the third and final part of our series examining Matthew 22:15-22, the famous passage about paying taxes to Caesar.

The Scripture

Then the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words, and they sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians, saying, "Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. Tell us then what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"

But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, "Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin for the tax." And they brought him a denarius. And Jesus said to them, "Whose likeness and inscription is this?" They said, "Caesar's." Then he said to them, "Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's."

When they heard it, they marveled, and they left him and went away. — Matthew 22:15-22

Key Message: What Should Consume Our Zeal?

In our final exploration of this passage, we examine Jesus' response through the lens of politics and what deserves our zealous devotion.

The Cultural Context

During Jesus' time, Caesar's coins represented more than currency—they contained inscriptions declaring Caesar divine. This created tension for devout Jews who recognized only one God. The religious leaders were attempting to trap Jesus with an impossible choice:

* If he said "pay taxes," religious Jews would see him endorsing idolatry

* If he said "don't pay taxes," Roman authorities would view him as an insurrectionist

Jesus' brilliant response transcended this false dichotomy while revealing a deeper truth.

The Image We Bear

When Jesus asked "whose image is on this coin?" he wasn't simply finding a clever escape from their trap. He was highlighting a profound truth about identity and allegiance.

Just as coins bear Caesar's image and belong to Caesar's domain, we bear God's image and belong to God. While we can participate in earthly systems (pay taxes, vote, engage in civic life), our primary identity and loyalty must remain with God.

Warning Signs: When Politics Overshadows Faith

Here are some warning signs that politics may be displacing spiritual priorities:

* Being more excited about political rallies than worship

* Speaking more passionately about candidates than Christ

* Skipping church to watch debates

* Defining fellow Christians primarily by their political affiliations

* Exhibiting rage rather than the fruit of the Spirit when discussing politics

Finding Balance: The Early Church Model

The early Christians weren't politically disengaged—they actively sought the welfare of their cities while maintaining ultimate allegiance to Christ. This dual posture made them both beneficial to society and threatening to those in power. They wanted the common good but refused to worship the emperor.

This is our model: we can be thoughtfully engaged citizens while remembering that our first love and ultimate hope lies not in political systems but in Christ's kingdom.

After the Amen

Am I zealous about the things of God? How does my passion for God's kingdom compare with other concerns in my life? When I discuss politics, do I exhibit the fruit of the Spirit or the works of the flesh?

A Call to Wisdom

Politics tends to bring out strong emotions, often leading to division even among believers. Wisdom calls us to:

* Prioritize Kingdom values above partisan identities

* Engage respectfully with those holding different views

* Remember that sanctification happens at different paces

* Care deeply about our communities while maintaining our first love

Our goal isn't to create a perfect Christian nation through political power, but to live as faithful witnesses who reflect Christ's character in every sphere of life—including the political.

In our latest episode of the Amen podcast, we explored a profound truth from Matthew 22:15-22 – the story of Jesus and the denarius. While this passage is often discussed in terms of taxes and civic duty, there's a deeper message about finding true contentment and joy in God.

The Missing Denarius

One detail that often gets overlooked is that Jesus didn't have a denarius when asked about taxes. He had to request one from his challengers. This wasn't because He was making a statement against money or government – He was practical enough to tell people to pay their taxes. Rather, it revealed something beautiful about His relationship with God: Jesus was supremely happy and content despite owning very little.

Understanding True Delight

This brings us to Psalm 37:4: "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." Many interpret this verse as a formula: if we're happy in God, He'll give us what we want. But the truth is more profound – when we truly delight in God, what we want changes. The desire of our new heart becomes God Himself.

Consider Abraham's story. He wanted a son for years, and God blessed him with Isaac. But when God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, it revealed that Abraham's true desire wasn't just for a son – it was for God Himself. Similarly, Jesus showed us that true wealth isn't found in denarii, but in delighting in the Father's will.

Living Simply and Quietly

This understanding transforms how we view success and contentment. When we're truly delighting in God:

* We stop measuring our worth by cultural standards

* We find freedom in living simply

* We realize we may already have everything we need

* Our focus shifts from accumulating more to enjoying God more

Practical Application

How can we cultivate this delight in God? Here are some insights from our discussion:

* Embrace Imperfect Moments: Your quiet time doesn't have to be perfect or even quiet. God meets us in the mess of daily life.

* Use Technology Wisely: Don't feel guilty about using tools that help you create space for God, whether it's noise-canceling headphones or appropriate entertainment for your children while you pray.

* Start Your Day with God: There's only one opportunity each day to start with God. While you can exercise or work later, that first moment with God is precious.

* Remember You Already Have Him: If you're a believer, you don't need to change everything to delight in God. Often, it's just about enjoying what – and Who – you already have.

A New Perspective on God's Gifts

Sometimes God gives us responsibilities or roles we wouldn't have chosen for ourselves. These aren't burdens meant to diminish our joy – they're opportunities to experience more of Him. Whether it's parenthood, a challenging job, or an unexpected ministry, these can become pathways to deeper delight in God.

Conclusion

True delight isn't found in having more denarii in our pockets or achieving cultural success. It's found in God Himself. As we learn to delight in Him, we often discover that we already have everything we truly need.

Stop Waiting: Embrace the Life God Has for You Today! (Ecclesiastes 6)

Don't let life pass you by while you wait for the "perfect" moment. Ecclesiastes 6 paints a stark picture of the futility of chasing after things that ultimately don't satisfy. It warns against the trap of constantly striving for more, of delaying joy and fulfillment in the pursuit of some elusive future goal.

The book highlights the emptiness of:

Instead, Ecclesiastes encourages us to:

Don't wait for tomorrow to start living. Embrace the life God has for you today. Find joy in the journey, seek His purpose, and discover the true meaning of life in Him.

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When Everything You Ever Wanted Isn’t Enough. amenpodcast.com

In Matthew 22:15-22, we find one of Jesus's most famous responses to his critics. While many know this passage as simply being about "rendering unto Caesar," there's a deeper wisdom here about how we should live as Christians.

The Setup: A Careful Trap

The scene opens with the Pharisees plotting to "entangle" Jesus in his words. They send their disciples along with the Herodians—an unlikely alliance of religious purists and political supporters of Rome—to trap Jesus with what seems like an impossible question: "Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?"

This wasn't just about taxes. If Jesus said yes, he would alienate devout Jews who saw Roman currency as idolatrous (it bore Caesar's image and proclaimed him lord). If he said no, he'd be marked as a political insurgent against Rome. It was, in modern terms, a "gotcha" question.

Jesus's Thoughtful Response

But Jesus, showing remarkable wisdom, doesn't rush to answer. Instead, he:

* Recognizes their malice despite their flattery

* Asks to see the coin used for taxes

* Uses their own possession of Roman currency to expose their hypocrisy

* Delivers his famous response: "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's"

The Deeper Message: Being Thoughtful Christians

The real lesson here isn't just about taxes—it's about thoughtfulness. Jesus exemplifies James 1:19: "Let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger." His response wasn't just clever; it was thoughtful and measured.

In our modern world of instant reactions and hot takes, this message is more relevant than ever. Being thoughtful means:

* Taking time to understand situations before responding

* Not being rushed into hasty answers

* Recognizing that God is not slow, but sovereign

* Being aware of attempts to trap or manipulate us

* Responding with wisdom rather than reaction

The Challenge of Modern Life

We live in a world that pushes us toward constant hurry and efficiency. We put in our AirPods to multitask, rush through our daily routines, and fill every moment with content. But this hurry can prevent us from being truly thoughtful.

Consider: When was the last time you did a task without background noise? When did you last take time to really think before responding to a challenging situation?

Practical Steps Toward Thoughtfulness

* Start your day intentionally, not rushed

* Create space in your mind by reducing mental clutter

* Practice being present in mundane tasks without constant stimulation

* Be especially thoughtful with those closest to you

* Remember that God's sovereignty means we don't need to rush

The Heart of the Matter

Just as the coin bore Caesar's image, we bear God's image. The real question isn't just about what we owe to earthly authorities—it's about giving ourselves back to God. This requires thoughtfulness, intentionality, and the wisdom to slow down and listen before speaking.

Which are you wearing?

Part 2 of the Parable of the Wedding Feast. Matthew 22:11-14.

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part 1 of the parable of the wedding feast. in matthew 22:1-10. amenpodcast.com

How to stop tripping over yourself and Jesus's work. Matthew 21:33-46. amenpodcast.com

Matthew 21:28-32. amenpodcast.com

Rise Above the Noise: How to Find Strength in Faith

Do you ever feel weighed down by negativity and criticism? In this episode, we'll explore how faith in Jesus Christ can empower you to rise above hate and find strength in God's love.

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Ridding Yourself of Distractions: A Call to Undistracted Living and Prayerful Worship

Description:

Join us as we dive into Matthew 21:12-17, where Jesus confronts distractions in the temple and calls for a return to prayerful worship. We'll explore the importance of:

Undistracted living: How to cultivate a life focused on God amidst the noise and temptations of the world.

The power of prayer: Why prayer is essential for spiritual growth and dependence on God, both individually and corporately.

Reforming our churches: Challenging distractions within the church and returning to a focus on the glory of God.

Baby-like faith: Embracing the undistracted, laser-focused faith of a child.

Get ready to be challenged and encouraged to live a life free from distractions and fully devoted to God!

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More of Jesus: A Call to True Surrender

Are you seeking more of God in your life? Join us as we dive deep into Matthew 21:1-11, exploring Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem and uncover a powerful truth: the key to experiencing more of God is to see and embrace Jesus as more than just a prophet or a king.

In this episode, we'll challenge you to:

Get ready to be inspired to live a life of service and wholehearted devotion to Jesus, motivated by His incredible love and sacrifice.

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True Sight: Seeing God Clearly in a World of Distractions

Join us today as we dive deep into Matthew 20:29-34, exploring the story of the two blind men healed by Jesus. We'll discuss the significance of their faith, the crowd's reaction, and the powerful message of true sight.

In this episode, you'll discover:

The meaning of true sight and how it applies to our lives today.

The importance of crying out to Jesus, even when the world tells us to be silent.

How to recognize and overcome spiritual blindness.

The beauty and power of God's grace and mercy.

Practical steps for deepening your relationship with Jesus.

We also discuss:

The importance of community and fellowship in the church.

How to create a welcoming space for outcasts and those who are different.

The challenges of staying focused on God in a world of distractions.
Plus:

We answer your questions and share encouraging reviews from our listeners.

Tune in now and be inspired to see God more clearly in your everyday life!

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What if true greatness wasn't about climbing the ladder, but about serving those around you? In Matthew 20, Jesus confronts the disciples' desire for power and reveals a shockingly different path to leadership. Join us as we explore this passage and discover how Jesus' death became the ultimate act of service, cleansing us from the inside out.

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Matthew 20: 17-19. amenpodcast.com

In this video, we explore the theme of God's boundless generosity and how it should motivate our service to Him. We delve into the parable of the laborers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16) to understand the importance of serving out of love and gratitude, not out of a desire for reward.

We discuss the contrast between serving for God's sake and serving for our own benefit, highlighting the importance of recognizing our worth as servants of God. We also emphasize the grace of God, which allows us to be accepted and loved regardless of our past or present shortcomings.

Finally, we encourage viewers to shift their perspective from one of pride to one of gratitude, acknowledging that God is the ultimate source of blessings and that He freely bestows them upon us. We invite viewers to work with God, knowing that He is a just and loving employer who rewards faithfulness and trust.

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In this episode, we dive deep into Matthew 19, a chapter that tackles some of the most challenging aspects of Christian discipleship. We explore Jesus's teachings on divorce, singleness, and the cost of following Him.

Join us as we unpack these profound truths and discuss:

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the true meaning of discipleship and live a life fully devoted to Christ.

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