The Living Streams Church Podcast

On this week's episode of the podcast, David and Ryan discuss America's comparison to Babylon, the empires that human power has built up throughout history, and the statues that Daniel saw in his prophetic dreams in the Bible.

King Nebuchadnezzar had a troubling dream and demanded his wise men interpret it. When they couldn't, he threatened to kill them all, including Daniel. Daniel prayed to God and received the dream's meaning – a vision of empires rising and falling, with God's kingdom ultimately prevailing. Daniel interpreted the dream for the king, giving credit to God. The king was impressed, recognized the true God, and spared everyone's life. Daniel's faith and wisdom saved himself, his friends, and the other wise men. 

On this week's episode of the podcast, Alec and David are joined by special guest and elder Daniel Riccio to discuss Daniel's commitment to the kingdom of God among the kingdom of Babylon. In addition, they also discuss Christendom in the United States, what Zion truly means in the Bible, and how the Christian faith is one of a sojourner.

The Book of Daniel tells the story of a young man exiled from his homeland who remains faithful to his God despite the challenges. Just like Daniel living in a foreign land, Christians today are seen as living in exile, away from their true home in heaven. The passage offers three ways to navigate this exile: remembering we are temporary residents, staying separate from worldly influences, and keeping faith in God's salvation.

On this week's deep dive episode, Ryan Romeo and Alec Seekins discuss The Book of Jeremiah, feeling exiled in today's modern culture, and being a Christian in America. 

The prophet Jeremiah warned the people of Judah about idolatry and corruption, leading to exile. What can we learn from Jeremiah's message? Live faithfully, build a strong community, and discern truth from falsehood.

In our final episode in our series on the Gospel of Mark, David Stockton and Alec Seekins discuss the rhythm of Holy Week, the Resurrection of Jesus, and Dune 2.

Easter marks the resurrection of Jesus, the core of Christianity. This future resurrection for believers is a promise worth dedicating our lives to Christ, just like Mary Magdalene's selfless devotion.

Palm Sunday remembers Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey while crowds celebrated. This event fulfilled prophecies and foreshadowed Jesus as the Messiah. Shortly after, the disciples asked Jesus about the end times. Jesus answered that the exact timing is unknown, but there would be various signs including wars, famines, and persecutions. These are not a reason to panic, but a reminder of a new world to come. The most important signs are the abomination of desolation and the Son of Man returning. Jesus’ teachings urged the disciples to be alert and prepared for the coming of God’s kingdom, while not being mislead or worried by worldly troubles.

In Mark 10, Jesus predicts his suffering and death while his disciples, focused on earthly power, miss his message. James and John seek high positions, revealing the disciples' ambition. Jesus corrects them, emphasizing that true greatness comes from serving others, as he himself has done by sacrificing his life. This passage highlights humility as the key to understanding Jesus' teachings and the path to true strength and fulfillment.

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch 

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS 
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

The Bible offers guidance on navigating financial and societal challenges while staying true to faith. We should be responsible stewards of our finances, generous givers, and informed participants in society, all while prioritizing our relationship with God above worldly possessions and anxieties.

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch 

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS 
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch 

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS 
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch 

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS 
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

While Jesus engaged in various practices like prayer and teaching, a key aspect of his ministry was being close to suffering. He calmed the storm not just to show power but to demonstrate his presence during hardship. He ventured into dangerous areas to heal the possessed man and the bleeding woman, prioritizing their well-being over his own comfort. Even when rejected by his hometown, he continued seeking opportunities to help those in need. This emphasis on proximity to pain serves as a powerful lesson for us, urging us to actively engage with the suffering around us, offering compassion, support, and practical help whenever possible.

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch 

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS 
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch 

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS 
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Mark 3 portrays Jesus' growing ministry and its challenges. He heals a man on the Sabbath, sparking tension with religious leaders over tradition. His popularity attracts crowds, but also escalates conflict with the Pharisees. Even his family worries about his intense activity, seeking to intervene. Jesus responds by forming a new "family" with his disciples, emphasizing spiritual kinship over physical ties. Despite opposition, his message of God's love and discipleship continues to draw followers, reminding us of the eternal reward found in serving him.

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch 

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS

Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.

#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS

ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org/connect

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Mark's Gospel, written for Gentile converts, aims to prove Jesus as the Son of God. Despite the author's early abandonment of Paul, he matured and became a valuable minister. The Gospel builds toward the question of Jesus' identity, presenting evidence like his Sabbath teachings, where he challenged the Pharisees' restrictive interpretation and emphasized the day's intended joy and rest.

Study further: https://livingstreams.org/media

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch 

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org 
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch 
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Though Jesus faced hardship and temptation in the wilderness, this wasn't God abandoning him, but the Holy Spirit guiding him toward spiritual growth. Through fasting, solitude, and scripture, Jesus prepared for the challenges ahead, reminding us that spiritual practices strengthen us against the devil's deceptive tactics. Hearing God's Word (the Bible) is key to overcoming these deceptions, leading us closer to Christ and ultimately defeating evil. Remember, even Jesus faced a "more opportune time" for darkness, but through faith in him, we too can overcome.

Study further: livingstreams.org/media

While yearning for Christ-like growth and closer connection, we recognize God's transformative power through practices like prayer and solitude. Accepting our varied stages in faith, we trust God to author and perfect our journey, multiplying His beauty, truth, and love within us as we humbly follow Him and spend time with Him in silence and solitude.

Study further: https://livingstreams.org/media

Jesus' life provides a roadmap for preparing for what God has in store. While often associated with miracles, Jesus' power stemmed from daily practices like prayer, fasting, solitude, and serving. These "practices of engagement" and "abstinence" help us encounter God, curtail worldly desires, and develop a prayerful connection that equips us for life's challenges and empowers us to bring God's glory into the world. By looking to Jesus' example and implementing these practices, we can confidently step into whatever God has planned for us.

Study further: https://livingstreams.org/teaching

Unlike fortune telling or gossip, prophecy is a divine gift bestowed by the Holy Spirit to uplift and guide God's church. It goes beyond human intuition, offering Spirit-led insights often aligning with Scripture, that may reveal future glimpses or serve to build up, convict, and ultimately express God's heart for his people. It's a powerful tool for edification, demonstrating God's active presence within his community.

Study further: https://livingstreams.org/teachings

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

While we celebrate Jesus' first advent with faith and his second with hope, it's love that fuels our present. Guided by Thomas Kelly's call to embrace our "joyous burdens" of love, we can delve into Psalm 84 for guidance. As pilgrims yearning for and praising the Lord, we should develop a heart for His house, a spirit of constant gratitude, and a willingness to walk the path He sets before us. Empowered by Christ, we can find joy in serving Him through the good and hard times, just as the pilgrims anticipated reaching Jerusalem. So, let's dedicate this year to practicing love, embracing our specific tasks, and journeying with a grateful heart towards God's kingdom.

STUDY DEEPER
https://livingstreams.org/teachings-collection/2023/12/31/heart-of-pilgrimage

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Skip the fleeting joys of the world that crumble under life's weight. Instead, discover Biblical Joy: a confident assurance, rooted in Christ and empowered by the Gospel. This Joy shields you from despair, grants perspective on pain, and ignites your purpose. Find it by drawing close to Jesus, the source of this unshakeable Joy He gifted through His sacrifice.

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

The world lacks peace due to the pervasive influence of sin. The ultimate solution lies in accepting Jesus' sacrifice and establishing a relationship with Him. Jesus, born as the Son of God, is the divine manifestation that addresses the root cause of sin. Despite the mystery surrounding His simultaneous divine and human nature, He lived, died, and rose again to pay for our sins. This profound act of sacrifice, symbolized by His birth and crucifixion, brings peace, healing, and restoration to humanity.

Study Further:
https://livingstreams.org/teachings

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

In his message to the Colossian church, Paul emphasizes the transformative power of the hope brought by Jesus, drawing from his personal experiences. He contends that this hope is so robust that it enables believers to find joy in their sufferings, as Jesus promises purpose in every moment of hardship, likening it to the meaningful pain of childbirth. Paul unveils the mystery of this hope in Colossians 1:27, revealing that Christ's indwelling Spirit is the key. Despite life taking unexpected turns, such as the loss of loved ones or health, Paul urges individuals not to succumb to despair. Instead, he contrasts unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol and narcotics with the redemptive alternative of receiving the hope that Christ offers, transforming suffering into endurance and stamina, emphasizing that embracing Christ means gaining everything.

Study deeper:
https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/py6xzkh

Scriptures:
Colossians 1:24-27 (ESV)

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

We are called to proclaim Christ with words and deeds, building a collective temple where God's glory manifests. By loving one another, we glorify God, bearing much fruit.

Study further:
https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/fjgfkdk

Scripture:
Romans 1:16-17; Ephesians 2:19-22; John 17:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 2:7-12; Matthew 24:6-13; 1 Corinthians 12:28-31; 1 Corinthians 13:1-8; Ephesians 3:16- 19; 1 Peter 2:9-10 (NIV)

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

United as God's family, we strive for a healthy church that nurtures new believers, mirroring the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice. Just as healthy families raise healthy children, a healthy church fosters healthy Christians. God's ultimate plan is to make us holy, whole and complete, shining forth His intended design. This is why Jesus' sacrifice was so profound. Healthy overseers safeguard God's household from disruptive influences.

Study further:
https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/t9tbn9b

Bible passages:
Titus 1:5-11; Titus 2:1-14; Titus 3:1-15 (NIV)

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Finances that God provides for us is a ministry that provides for the needs of the saints, bringing thanksgiving to God and demonstrating our submission to Christ's gospel. Give cheerfully and willingly, as God loves such givers. God promises to provide abundantly for those who give in this way, enabling us to accomplish every good work and experience a beautiful, generous life. Jesus is our example, having sacrificed everything for us.

Study further:
https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/vyb5yp7

Bible passages:
2 Corinthians 9:1-15 ESV

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

This Sunday we learned that the oikos was a much broader term than the immediate family, and that Paul's instructions for wives/husbands, children/fathers, and slaves/masters are all different from what we might assume. Paul calls for mutual submission, mutual self-sacrificing love, and mutual honor, all of which flow out of being filled by the Spirit.

Study further:
https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/bj3724y

Bible passages:
Ephesians 5:18, Ephesians 6:9 ESV

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch 

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

We all fear feeling unimportant. The world tells us that we need to be rich, famous, or successful to matter. We may try to compensate for this fear by working too hard, chasing money, or accumulating possessions. But the Gospel tells us that we are all important because we are created in the image of God. We are all uniquely gifted and need to submit to and support one another.

In the Kingdom of God, our importance is not based on our race, ethnicity, gender, social class, or physical attractiveness. It is based on our relationship with Jesus Christ and the gifts He has given us. We are all called to use our gifts to serve others and build up the body of Christ.

When we live in accordance with the Gospel, we are no longer afraid of feeling unimportant. We know that we are loved and valued by God, and that we have a unique and important role to play in His Kingdom.

Study further:
https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/9ysk5qk

Bible passages:
1 Corinthians 12:4-11, Romans 12:4-8, and Ephesians 4:11-16 (ESV)

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Peter's first epistle is to teach followers of Christ how to use their individual lives to promote what God is building in our world. Peter likens what God is building to a spiritual house, and each believer is a living stone God wants to use to build His house. To explain what living good lives among the pagans looks like, Peter gives us a number of phrases in the Greek imperative form. We are to abstain from sinful desires, submit ourselves to every human authority, live as free people, show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor (government officials), and suffer for doing good and endure it well.

Study further:
https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/zhh9fzm

Bible passages:
1 Peter 2:4-5, 1 Peter 2:11-17, and 1 Peter 2:21 (NIV)

ABOUT LIVING STREAMS
Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.
#livingstreamschurch  

CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS
ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

A deeper discussion of some of the topics brought up in Sunday's Sermon, "Conflating Intimacies." In this Podcast Ryan Romeo and Alec Seekins discuss different kinds of loves and intimacies as well as a number of statistics that seem to indicate a trend of the shedding off of sexual boundaries leading to an increase in loneliness.

Resources referenced in this podcast:

Books-
"Love Thy Body," Nancy Pearcey
"Confronting Christianity," Rebecca McLaughlin
"Them Before Us," Katy Faust
"Gay Girl, Good God," Jackie Hill-Perry
"The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self," Carl Trueman

Statistics-
Rise of Single Parent Homes: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr48/nvs48_16.pdf
Sexual Partners by Birth Year: https://bedbible.com/average-number-of-sexual-partners-promiscuity-statistics/
Teenage Loneliness: https://www.transformationsnetwork.com/post/what-is-the-loneliness-epidemic
States Legalizing Gay Marriage: https://www.bloomberg.com/graphics/2015-pace-of-social-change/
Gen Z Gap in Sexual Partners Between Men/Women: https://www.the-sun.com/lifestyle/4479617/average-number-sexual-partners-generation/

In our confusing world, love and intimacy often get mixed up, leading to misguided connections that harm rather than nurture. To solve this, we're called to love one another, but our understanding of love is cloudy. The New Testament suggests that drawing close to Jesus can clear this confusion and transform us. The Church should then become a sanctuary of healthy intimacy in a world marked by loneliness and brokenness, especially for those in need. Achieving self-sacrificing love involves emulating God, adopting a new self, and aligning our minds with His will through an intimate connection with Him.

When we adhere to God's design for us, we help flourish a society that is assured amid life's challenges and when we have the hope of the presence of Jesus, dissapointments are replaced with fullfillments. Ultimately, God's framework for humanity is pivotal for creating healthy families and communities.

Today's culture poses a significant threat to the stability of healthy families, which are essential for preserving generations. This challenge stems from societal messages promoting individualism and the rejection of traditional family norms. However, a contrasting perspective grounded in the Faith that we find in Jesus highlights the significance of family dynamics, gender roles, and parenting based on Biblical principles. The relationship between a healthy family and a thriving church is emphasized, showcasing their mutual support and influence. Even if one doesn't come from a healthy family, there's hope in finding a new family within the Church because the Church is depicted as a place of humility, compassion, worship, and spiritual growth. Ultimately, a healthy family contributes to a healthy church. They are interconnected and the need to nurture both in today's society is pressing.

In the face of rising post-Christian influence in the US, Pastor David notes historical echoes of resistance, raising questions about challenges for Christians. Amid this shift away from Christian roots, how can believers sustain their faith?

Informed by his mission in Ireland, where post-Christian impact is stark, Pastor David urges a wake-up call from complacency. Once a Christian stronghold, Ireland now grapples with spiritual void, cautioning against faith's complacent assumption. The call is clear: break isolation, confront darkness united, and rekindle faith's flame. Through acknowledging and seeking forgiveness, stepping out of hiding becomes possible. Baptism also offers newcomers a path to faith. The message is straightforward—don't retreat; stand strong, radiating faith amidst today's moral turbulence.

The profound message of the book of Hosea confronts the tension between human sinfulness and God's unwavering faithfulness. The central theme of "return" resonates throughout Hosea's teachings, reiterated twenty-two times. This theme spans the entire Bible, underscoring the need to reevaluate our alignment with culture, our misplaced trust in humanity, and our dilution of God's Word. Both on a personal and collective level, we must acknowledge our straying and embrace genuine repentance. We must prioritize prayer over posting, seeking God over news, lamenting over opinionating, and repenting over judging. Ultimately, God's mission is that of mercy, His desire to mend wounds, restore losses, and beautify brokenness, inviting all to return, heal, and find comfort in Him.

Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Hosea highlights God's efforts to allure, establish covenants, yearn, and betroth His people to Himself. Amidst a society fixated on sexuality, Hosea's depiction of God's desire for intimacy might challenge our preconceptions. By distinguishing between intimacy and mere physicality, we can grasp the divine intention behind human intimacy. Hosea reveals that, much like a heartbroken lover, God remains steadfast in His commitment despite our shortcomings. This video delves into the sacred beauty of God's longing for intimacy, offering a transformative perspective that has the potential to liberate us from societal constraints.

Today's youth are significantly impacted by the forces of darkness present in the world, particularly through various media platforms like phones, social media, TV, music, and billboards. To counter this influence, the message of God must be even stronger and more prevalent. It is essential not only to guide and mentor the younger generation but also to instill in them the teachings of Jesus consistently. By doing so, we can help them become a strong and righteous generation, upholding the values of obedience to God and standing up for what is right. Irrespective of our backgrounds, we all have a responsibility to nurture and support the youth in our society.

Uncover God's affection and mercy in the book of Hosea as we delve into the themes of His anger, our sin, and His desire for mercy over sacrifice. While God's wrath is directed at evil and injustice, His mercy and steadfast love for His creation are boundless. Despite our unfaithfulness, He remains faithful. Through the story of Hosea pursuing Gomer and God sending His Son into the world, we witness the marvel of God's mercy. Instead of giving us what we deserve, He offers us what Jesus deserves. Having experienced this undeserved grace, we are then commissioned to share God's mercy with others. Join us as we explore the depths of God's compassion, forgiveness, and faithfulness in Hosea.

In the book of Hosea, sin is a central theme, particularly focusing on Israel's unfaithfulness to God. The prophet Hosea's own troubled marriage serves as an illustration of God's feelings towards His unfaithful people. Chapter 4 acts like a courtroom, where God accuses Israel of lacking faithfulness, love, and acknowledgment of Him. The people engage in various sinful behaviors, including idol worship and adultery. Despite their wrongdoing, God's response is not one of strict judgment, but of heartache and grief. Hosea teaches us that God is not concerned with a transactional relationship or our attempts to clean ourselves up before coming to Him. Instead, He longs for us to return to our first love, to Him. When we sin, we must remember that God not only calls out our sin but also aches over our unfaithfulness. Rather than focusing on ourselves, we should offer gratitude to God before confessing our sins, reminding us of His love and our welcome home.

The book of Hosea portrays God's frustration with His people due to their lack of faithfulness, love, and knowledge of Him. However, by returning to the Lord through repentance, consecration, and actively fostering a relationship with Him, one can experience discipline, cleansing, healing, and refreshing times. Failing to return to the Lord results in missing out on His miracles and facing His opposition. The concept of "returning" involves acknowledging guilt, resisting worldly desires, and finding humility and vulnerability. Through baptism and consecration in Jesus Christ, righteousness becomes possible. The role of John the Baptist and Jesus is highlighted, emphasizing the need for purification, forgiveness, and empowerment through the Holy Spirit. This process leads to beauty, light, and the fulfillment of our purpose in Christ Jesus.

Hosea's ancient message serves as a warning and exhortation to God's people. The people are guilty and will soon face God's punishment, but God loves them and will restore them if they return to Him. Their guilt lies in their lack of faithfulness, steadfast love, and knowledge of God, which parallels our own shortcomings. We are entangled with worldly desires, attempting to love both God and the world, but God cannot be deceived and His holy anger will not be withheld forever. To avoid destruction, we must repent and turn back to God's ways. Repentance is a lifelong process of presenting ourselves to God, asking for His Spirit to guide us, break us from our sinful ways, cleanse us, and discipline us as a loving Father. We must strive to be a generation that seeks the knowledge of God above all else.

Explore the vital role of fathers in our lives, providing strength, guidance, and protection. Without a father figure, we become more vulnerable, lacking maturity in understanding danger and our own identity. Despite our brokenness, there is hope. Discover how our Heavenly Father carries our shame and burdens, offering redemption and support. Reflect on the significance of fathers, the impact of brokenness, and the power of seeking strength and forgiveness. Embrace the transformative journey towards becoming the fathers and individuals we are meant to be.

Hosea comes after a time of great prosperity and peace. But this peace and prosperity has now given way to moral decay, idolatry, ritualistic perversion, deception, violence, and even anarchy. This leads to forgetting God, a faux repentance based on a loss of comfort, a demon possessed culture, and a priesthood who turns a blind eye to this reality.

Can a culture be possessed? Yes, it can, according to Matthew 12. When the grace of God is not humbly received but is pridefully expected, people decay quickly. The warning is that judgment is on the way and sober thinking is required. Yet Ephraim's unfaithfulness and recalcitrance are not enough to exhaust God's redeeming love.

Hosea creates a covenant with Gomer and then breaks her covenant with Hosea by becoming a prostitute. God tells Hosea to not only return to Gomer, but to pay off her lovers, and bring her back into their home in an act of radical, unreciprocated love, and forgiveness.

We are Gomer. We have strayed. And God’s forgiveness and mercy are extended to us, both collectively, and individually.

The New Testament writers had a lot to say about what happens after we die. Some of the writers wrote instructions, some wrote apocalyptically, and some wrote poetically, but all wrote to help followers of Christ be steadfast, be pure, and be comforted. These passages give us glimpses into understanding the mystery and victory of the resurrection body and life everlasting.

We explore the profound concept of forgiveness and its transformative power in healing society. Throughout history, countless visions have emerged to shape a better world, but we firmly believe that God's plan centers around the forgiveness of sins. By embracing this divine act of grace, we can experience personal healing and witness the renewal of all things, both in Heaven and on Earth. God's forgiveness not only grants us the ability to move forward in life with hope for eternity but also calls us to extend forgiveness to others. Although forgiving those who have wronged us may seem impossible, we find solace in the strength of Jesus, who enables us to forgive beyond our own capabilities. Join us as we delve into the profound impact of forgiveness and its role in shaping a brighter future for all.
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We delve into the profound significance of the Holy Catholic Church and the Communion of the saints. These concepts emerged during the 4th century when the Apostle's Creed was established and widely disseminated, a time when Christianity was rapidly expanding and the Roman world was embracing the faith. As followers of Jesus, we witness the unity that transcends geographical boundaries and embraces every believer as a cherished member of Christ's family and body. Moreover, our journey in Christ is intertwined with a rich heritage of saints who have come before us, those who are with us today, and those who are yet to come. Together, we are surrounded by their encouragement and support, reminding us that we are never alone. Our fellowship extends not only to one another but also to the Father and the Son. 

Discover the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in this captivating episode. As Jesus promised in John 14, we have the potential to accomplish even greater works through the guidance and encouragement of the Holy Spirit. By creating space for the Spirit to work within us, we become agents of God's redemptive work in our lives and the world around us. Watch as lives are transformed and witness the astounding impact of saying yes to God's leading. Experience the goodness of His Kingdom through obedience and embrace the presence of the Holy Spirit in your journey of faith.

Study deeper: https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/qpphfhf

This episode delves into the mysteries surrounding Jesus Christ's life and teachings. The discussion focuses mainly on three intriguing topics: Jesus' descent into hell, His role as the one true Messiah, and the miraculous conception by the Holy Spirit. The hosts provide a comprehensive understanding of these foundational aspects of Christian belief by exploring biblical narratives, theological frameworks, and historical contexts. They shed light on the significance of these events, invite listeners to contemplate their implications, and ground their discussions in biblical scholarship and theological tradition. Whether you're a curious seeker, a devoted believer, or a student of theology, this episode will leave you with fresh insights and a renewed appreciation for the enigmatic dimensions of Jesus' life, mission, and divinity.

If you have any questions about the Bible or Jesus, we invite you to email us: ask@livingstreams.org

Have questions about the bible, Jesus, or Christianity? Ask us anything:
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Who is Jesus? Genesis 1 teaches us that Jesus is the Word of God made manifest. The Word of

God created everything. In Genesis 1, God is present, and the Holy Spirit is present, but where is

the Son? The Son is the Word.

Jesus is fully God and fully man. Jesus is the exact imprint of God’s nature (Hebrews 1:2-3). Jesus

was there in the beginning (John 1:1-5 & Genesis 1:26). Jesus’ humanity was displayed in the garden

of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-46). The trinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, is not peripheral

to our faith, it is the center of our faith. This is the power of the triune God. Our God is not like every

other god. His triune nature sets Him apart. The word trinity is not in the Bible, but the Bible is

saturated in the theology of the trinity.

Study further: https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/kd885t2

In a polytheistic society, the Bible, and the whole of creation, affirms that God is God, and we are not. The holiness of God is both terrifying and beautiful. Until we understand both aspects of His nature, we will not know Him. When we finally come to understand who God is, it effects what we do, and how we live. Not only is God ‘Holy Holy Holy’, all powerful, all knowing, all present… He is near. He is inviting us to taste and see that He is good. And when we do, it will transform our lives, and the lives around us.

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Have questions about the bible, Jesus, or Christianity? Ask us anything: ask@livingstreams.org

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Welcome to this enlightening and thought-provoking discussion between Pastor Ryan Romeo and renowned author and pastor, John Mark Comer, who is known for his insights on the intersection of faith and culture. In this video, we delve into the topic of spiritual formation, post-modernism, and evangelism in the modern Church space.

Together, Pastor Ryan and John Mark explore the challenges and opportunities that come with living in a post-modern world. They discuss how Christians can effectively engage with the culture without compromising their beliefs and values. They also delve into the topic of spiritual formation, discussing practical ways in which Christians can grow in their relationship with God and become more like Jesus. They explore the importance of practices such as prayer, meditation, and community in the process of spiritual formation. Finally, Pastor Ryan and John Mark discuss evangelism in the modern Church space. They share insights on how to effectively share the Gospel in a culture that is increasingly skeptical of religion and spirituality.

Whether you are a pastor, a Christian leader, or simply someone who wants to grow in your faith, this discussion is sure to be enlightening and inspiring. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities of living out our faith in the modern world.

Have questions about the bible, Jesus, or Christianity? Ask us anything:
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Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom.
Founded by Mark and Kristina Buckley in their living room in 1984, Living Streams Church is a multi-generational community of Jesus-followers on a mission to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society’s pain. We believe in bringing a quality and a sincerity of heart in worship as well as in the preaching of God’s Word. People from every generation, stage of life, and background are invited to discover a home, find family, and experience growth in their relationship with Jesus at Living Streams Church.
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#spiritualformation #livenolies #postmodernism

Have questions about the bible, Jesus, or Christianity? Ask us anything: 
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We believe the Scriptures are true, authoritative, and inspired by God. We believe in the inerrancy of Scripture, and seek to apply Biblical instruction to life, with the help of the Holy Spirit, historical church teachings, and reason.

Study further: https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/qxwbbs5

Have questions about the bible, Jesus, or Christianity? Ask us anything: 
ask@livingstreams.org

Follow us online:
https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch/
https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom.
Founded by Mark and Kristina Buckley in their living room in 1984, Living Streams Church is a multi-generational community of Jesus-followers on a mission to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society’s pain. We believe in bringing a quality and a sincerity of heart in worship as well as in the preaching of God’s Word. People from every generation, stage of life, and background are invited to discover a home, find family, and experience growth in their relationship with Jesus at Living Streams Church.

Our faith hinges on one main thing. Did Jesus rise from the dead? We know the story of Jesus is miraculous and beautiful, but is it true? There are virtually no historians, Christians or otherwise, who deny Jesus lived and was crucified. Much of what we know of ancient history is told through one or two sources. Not only is the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus backed up extensively in the 27 books of the New Testament, but they are backed up by 5 ancient sources outside of the Bible. There were non-Christian historical accounts, Josephus, Tacitus, Lucian, Mara Bar-Serapion, and even the Jewish Talmud, which is critical of Jesus.

Paul wrote to the Corinthians confirming Jesus’ resurrection around 22 years after Jesus’ crucifixion. In this passage he references an early Christian creed (1 Corinthians 15:3-6). This creed can be dated to nearly 6 years after the death of Jesus, which is incredibly close historically. Other historical documents that are widely credited, are written several hundred years after their event, while the Bible was written within a few decades of Christ’s crucifixion. We can be sure by many proofs, that our faith in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is true.

Study more here: https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/h7sp4pd

Jesus was at the height of His ministry. He had been going around to all the towns and villages, proclaiming the gospel of the Kingdom, and healing every disease and affliction. He just raised Lazarus from the dead and people were referring to Him as Son of David. As the fervor around Jesus began to build, He walked into His triumphant entry.

Jesus’ triumphal entry was full of risk because it drew attention to Himself as the new King. The political expectations on Jesus began to build. The palm branches they laid on the ground were a symbol of revolution to overthrow tyranny. The crowds called Jesus, The King who Comes in the Name of the Lord. The lavish, populace welcome was based on their expectation on Him. Political expectations on Jesus led to disappointment. These expectations would move their shouts of “Hosanna!”, a one-word prayer meaning, rescue, save, intervene, to “Crucify Him!”. Even though this had been prophesied (Zechariah 9:9) and Jesus even told His disciples what to expect (Mark 10:32-34), it still surprised them. Sometimes our expectation of what we think God will do, hinders us from seeing what He actually wants to do.
Learn more: https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/4zs39zm

The bible makes it clear, when we’re supposed to continue loving and helping someone, and when it becomes unloving to continue to help someone. It says in Galatians 6:2, to bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ. That’s a big statement. Bearing one another’s burdens is fulfilling the very thing that Jesus Christ came to do. But three verses later, it says, but each person ought to bear their own load. That’s confusing. Should we bear their burden, or should we bear their load? Because it says not to bear their load, but to bear their burden.

The distinction, according to the Greek, when we bear one another’s burdens, it means to empathize with someone, but to bear one another’s load is to take responsibility for someone’s actions and for their life, and that’s when it becomes unhealthy. When we take responsibility for someone who is toxic towards us and others, and not willing to help themselves by taking responsibility for their part, we’re hurting and enabling them. When we empathize with them, as Christ has done for us, that’s when we fulfill the law of Christ. To empathize with someone is to be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ forgave you. To rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. To be likeminded, sympathetic, loving one another with understanding, care, and humility.

So, we are to empathize with all people, but not to take responsibility for them. That’s not our role, that’s God’s role. And taking responsibility for another person is not only unhelpful, it’s unloving.

Attempting to earn salvation by the law is enslavement, but unrestrained sin itself, is enslavement as well. Our culture likes to say things are complicated or nuanced. We have religious leaders that love to say that they don’t know if something is a sin. But this isn’t helpful. And it isn’t loving to leave people confused in their sin. Jeremiah 17:9 tells us the heart is deceitful and desperately sick. Following the Spirit is not following your heart. Paul instructs us that freedom in Christ should produce a specific sort of fruit in our lives. Following the Spirit leads to the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, which should be evident in the life of a Christian.

Study further: https://subspla.sh/kdf2f25

Paul is perplexed at why we continue to run into the slavery of works when Christ has set us free. We settle for legalism instead of liberation through grace. “One of the tragedies of legalism is that is gives the appearance of spiritual maturity when, in realty, it leads the believer back into a ‘second childhood’ of Christian experience.” (Wiersbe Bible Commentary). There is something deep inside of us that runs from the free grace of God. The crux of all our problems, is looking for pseudo saviors, instead of accepting Christ's salvation. If we are free in Christ that should impact every aspect of our lives. If we don’t understand where our rescue is rooted, we will never experience the promise of life and life to the full.
Study deeper on this sermon here: https://subspla.sh/wj625k8

In Galatians 4:1, it was common knowledge at that time, that under Roman law, a child was not legally considered a son until the age of 14. The son owned everything at birth right, but had no access to it until they came of age. In the same way, as we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we become heirs of God’s sonship, receiving all the right as heirs to the Kingdom of God. Sometimes we grasp in our minds that God is Father, but not always receiving adoption as sons & daughters in our hearts. God sent His Son, Jesus, to save us, and He sent the Holy Spirit of His Son to experience the fullness of God’s sonship. The Holy Spirit transforms our hearts to know that God loves us deeply and enables us to have a relationship with Him. The Holy Spirit and our relationship with God, is our inheritance. It is a gift of intimacy, love, and power. That kind of access would have been unthinkable under the law. But as Christians, under the new covenant, we can come to the Lord at all times. When we are brought into the family of God, we are no longer required to live under the law, but we do have a responsibility to live according to the ways Jesus instructed us. To forgive, to conduct ourselves in a way that brings honor and glory to Jesus, to share the Gospel, to help others in need, to fully follow Christ. We are not to disqualify ourselves as heirs to God’s Kingdom. We have access, affection, authority, and assurance in Jesus Christ. We can deeply experience the faith filled recognition and confidence in our Abba. We can trust completely in the assurance of Christ and His plan for our lives. We know intellectually that God is our Father, but we need to know in our whole heart, that we are His children, and can fully embrace the love of our Father. 

We are in need of justification. Nothing we do has the capacity to bring us that justification. It is not possible to erase our bad deeds with good deeds. The only way for us to be justified is through faith in Jesus Christ. Faith in Jesus is much less about simply believing that He existed or was the Song of God, although that is a part of it. But more so about trusting Him, tying ourselves to Him, and fully committing to Him. It’s about adopting God as ours and accepting His offer to adopt us as His own. This kind of faith ties us to Jesus, and in so doing, gives us access to His justification for us.

Paul is a man called by God into leadership. He was confident in his calling, humble about his past, and passionate about defending the Gospel. Paul understood Jesus-like influence and that leadership is not power structures. Leadership is not tearing down another’s power to get your own. It’s not found in tearing down the patriarchy or scarring one another into submission. It isn’t found in violence, identity politics, money, fame, or manipulative language. It’s not reserved for the attractive, the loud, or the smooth articulate communicators. Jesus-like leadership is strong on the Gospel and weak in self. It relies on God’s power and doesn’t make room for pride. It’s clear on mission and lowly in attitude.