God will send a special Helper to live within Jesus’ people: The “Parakletos.” Who is this Holy Spirit and what does he do? This episode is a Bible Study on John 14:15-31.
Author: MatthewRuttan
All for one, one for all. Soul, home & church for King Jesus. I write The Up Daily Devotional (theupdevo.com), host The Pulse Podcast with Matthew Ruttan, and pastor Westminster Church. Pancakes, hockey, campfires & song. VDM. Online homebase: MatthewRuttan.com
What do we really know about the historical Jesus, and how does that impact our faith? [Sermon]
Jesus is the centre of our faith. He came to give us life; but what was his like? What did he look like? What was
Something forgotten, fun facts and curiosities about the Christmas story
Why a census? How far to Bethlehem? Was Jesus born inside or outside? What is something we’ve forgotten (but previous generations didn’t)? This episode shares an informal, interactive time with the congregation on Christmas morning as I answer these questions and more.
“If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” Does Jesus give us a blank cheque in prayer?
Jesus said: “If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” Is that a blank cheque? This podcast is a short exert from a worship service on December 18, 2022 and provides some explanation.
A closer look at the nativity in Luke 2:1-20: politics, fear, subversion, war and hope
We know the Christmas story. Or do we? If it doesn’t seem revolutionary or exciting, you’re not seeing the whole picture. This podcast and blog is a closer look at Luke 2:1-20.
Exclusive Inclusion: Is Jesus the only Way? [Sermon]
In confusing times Jesus offers a word of clarity, compassion – and controversy. “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Is Jesus really the only way? That’s what this sermon explores.
Jesus prepares a place for us, is the (only) Way, and calls us to bold prayer (Growing Deeper with John 14:1-14)
This teaching by Jesus includes comfort, controversy, and a call. First, he tells his disciples that he goes ahead to prepare a place for them
Desperate times call for loving measures [Sermon]
Jesus lived in desperate times. Life was hard. He was about to be betrayed, tortured and killed. With that in mind he gave a new command. To run for the hills? Nope. This sermon explores John 13:31-38.
Love one another as I have loved you: the meaning of Jesus’ new commandment (Growing Deeper with John 13:31-38)
Love. It can change things. A lot of things. Bonhoeffer wrote: “Love asks nothing in return, but seeks those who need it.” The command to
Jesus said he came to give us abundant life. What did he mean?
Is this Jesus’ version of “live your best life now”? Yes and No. Think bigger. Think life that is “abundant.” This podcast and blog distil Jesus’ use of the word “life” in John’s Gospel to two main ideas.
Downward Mobility [Sermon]
How would you define success? Is it accumulating money, influence, beauty or power? Well, of course not. We wouldn’t admit that — at least not
When Jesus washed Judas’ feet and set us an example (Growing Deeper with John 13:1-30)
It was the lead-up to his torture, crucifixion and death. The disciples were there, including Judas. He was preparing to betray Jesus to the authorities,
Why is there so much evil and suffering in the world if there is a benevolent being?
In this episode I answer a question in the Q & A Forum: “Why is there so much evil and suffering in the world if there is a benevolent being?”
Light Locations [Sermon]
Jesus warns that the darkness can “overtake you.” Fortunately, God has provided light locations to keep us on the right path. This sermon explores John 12:27-50.
Seeking serious answers to serious questions [Sermon]
People are seeking serious answers to serious questions. There’s a temptation to downplay or trivialize these questions. But Jesus didn’t. This sermon explores John 12:20-26.
Sir, we wish to see Jesus (Growing Deeper with John 12:20-26)
They had a different culture and customs. But they just needed to see him. “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” In response, Jesus lays on something pretty heavy. This episode is a Bible Study on John 12:20-26.
Costly, whole-hearted devotion [Sermon]
If you follow Jesus you are different. In 1961, 96% of people in our country identified as Christian. No longer. “No Religion” is now the
At Jesus’ feet with shocking extravagance (Growing Deeper with John 12:1-11)
Imagine spending $30,000 in a single moment of extravagance. Oh, and you’re not rich. You spent it honouring Jesus. This episode is a Bible Study on Mary’s anointing of Jesus’ feet in John 12:1-11.
Can we earn heaven? Matthew 7:21 unsettles me, please explain
In this episode I answer a question in the Q & A Forum: “What Jesus says in Matthew 7:21 unsettles me because it indicates that you can only get into heaven if you do God’s will. I thought we couldn’t earn heaven so this seems a bit confusing to me. I’m also very aware of my many faults and sins! Can you explain?”
Thom Rainer on the difference between church consumers and church members
It’s a new time – with challenges and opportunities. So we need to be honest about who we are in the body of Christ: consumers or members? This podcast is a talk with Thom Rainer, president of Church Answers and former CEO of LifeWay, and author of “11 signs you are becoming a church consumer instead of a committed church member.”
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