Waking up to Grace Ministries

Fully Accepted Forever. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a journey to the heart of faith with us, Lenny and Melissa, as we unravel the assurance of eternal security in Christ—a treasure trove for believers seeking solace in a tumultuous world. From the fall of Adam and Eve to the boundless grace offered through Jesus, we delve into the narrative that transforms our understanding of divine love and salvation. This episode promises not just a reflection but a celebration of the spiritual inheritance that is ours, without the need for human prerequisites, and the peace it instills in our lives and sacred bonds, like marriage. Imagine a life where the haunting specter of legalism fades, replaced by a profound assurance that allows you to call the Almighty 'Abba, Father.' We examine Paul's life-changing teachings, challenging modern deviations and rekindling the supremacy of grace over law. The confessions of our own hearts serve as a testament to the transformative power of grace—a power that commenced the good work within us and vows to see it through. Listeners will find comfort in the promise that, despite our human frailties, our redemption cannot be shaken, and our identity in Christ stands immovable. In our closing narrative, we confront the perplexing existence of sin and guilt amid redemption, and the impact it has on our spiritual walk. Yet, through this, we discover the robust vitality of staying intimately connected to Jesus, the true vine, and the inexplicable joy of daily communing with Him. As we navigate through these themes, our hope is to uplift your spirit and affirm that the security of your salvation is not a distant, abstract concept but an ever-present reality, nurturing you to grow in grace and truth each day. Join us, and let the assurance of eternal security rekindle your passion for the Christian journey.

The Truth about the Tithe. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. The Truth about the Tithe. What is a Tithe? In the bible, who is instructed to pay a Tithe? Should Christians Tithe? If you are not absolutely certain on these questions or have pondered what the truth is regarding the Tithe, you should consider checking out this discussion to gain crystal clarity on this hot topic in the Christian faith.

Embracing Divine Love: 1 John 4. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a profound exploration of faith and spirituality as we dissect the sublime messages within 1 John chapter four. Our in-depth journey through scripture will arm you with a deeper understanding of God's Word, and the role the Holy Spirit plays in guiding our lives. We weave together the historical context of the Apostle John's challenges with contemporary applications, ensuring your spiritual foundation is not only knowledgeable but unshakeably strong. Strap yourself in for a fascinating voyage back to the tale of Cain and Abel, where we unravel the threads of sin and redemption, and highlight the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus. Through heartfelt discussions, we celebrate the support of family in ministry and the transformative power of new life in Christ. Our conversation promises to leave you with a renewed sense of purpose, as we ponder love's integral nature in our walk with God and the confidence we can place in His divine embrace. As we conclude this episode, I extend a heartfelt invitation for you to incorporate the divine love you've encountered into your daily interactions. Let the truths of 1 John guide you toward a life of freedom and wholeness under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Carry these insights with you until we convene again, and may they serve as a beacon of hope and assurance in your spiritual journey.

Victorious Faith: 1 John 5. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Discover the liberating truth that obedience to God is not a burdensome mandate but a victory march through the challenges of life. Join me, your host, for an inspiring journey into the final chapter of John's First Epistle, where we unpack the essence of faith and the power of love for God. Embrace the testimony of the Spirit, the water, and the blood, as we navigate their unified witness to the truth of Jesus Christ, and let's find solace in the assurance that our belief in the Son secures eternal life. We explore the protective power bestowed upon the children of God, shielding them from perpetual sinning and the evil one's clutches. Reflecting upon early Christian unity, we recount Jonah's hesitance to embrace his mission to the Gentiles, drawing parallels to the importance of love among believers today. This episode promises to shed light on the interplay of God's commandments and the concept of free will, a thought-provoking subject for any faithful listener. Let this episode be the start of your day, anchored in the truth of who you are in Christ, as we conclude our study of First John with a heartening reminder of your sacred spiritual identity. Be encouraged by the unwavering love, forgiveness, and grace that define your journey in faith. As we wrap up our series with an affirmation of life found solely in Christ, carry these truths with you, standing firm against any opposing views, with the wisdom of God resting in your heart.

Will the True Israel please stand up? https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a theological odyssey as we unravel the Apostle Paul's profound insights into 'true Israel' within Romans 9-11. Our exploration reveals the intricacies of spiritual heritage, distinguishing between the lineage of Israel's flesh and the divine election of God's spiritual Israel. With a careful examination of scripture, we unearth the historical and eternal implications of Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises, casting new light on the anticipated second coming and the significant events of 70 AD. Venturing further, we draw compelling parallels between Old Testament figures and Christ, redefining Jewish identity through the transformative lens of the New Covenant. Our discussion navigates through the metaphorical landscape where Jesus emerges as the true vine, inviting listeners to contemplate the rich tapestry of prophecy and its fulfillment. This episode challenges traditional interpretations, offering a fresh perspective on the continuity of spiritual lineage and the pivotal role Jesus plays in this divine narrative. As we conclude our journey, we reflect on the historical and theological implications of the Antichrist, grappling with the complexities that surround the term and its historical context. The Church emerges as the embodiment of True Israel, a beacon of hope and salvation that transcends temporal boundaries. Join us as we celebrate the power inherent in the name of Yeshua, embracing the transformative work of Jesus and the eternal hope that His name signifies for believers around the world.

Transformed by Grace: Embracing a New Heart and Spirit. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Experience the radical transformation that grace brings to a believer's life as we unravel the beauty of a new heart and spirit, bestowed by God's generous hand, you'll feel the chains of your old self fall away. Our conversation dives deep into Ezekiel's prophecy of a spiritual heart transplant, revealing how this divine change softens our nature and aligns us with God's will. We unpack the truth that, though we may falter, our essence as God's new creation reigns supreme, offering a peace that is simply beyond comprehension. We then cast light on the liberating power of absolute forgiveness, where God's choice to erase our sins exemplifies His grace in its purest form. We reflect on the Apostle Paul's teachings of freedom in Christ, where our past is not merely forgotten but obliterated, leaving us with a slate forever clean by God's mercy, not our merit. This chapter beckons you to embrace the fullness of forgiveness, to step out from the shadow of constant repentance into the light of acknowledgment that our sins are forever separated from us. Wrapping up our heartfelt exchange, we underscore the importance of prayer in fostering spiritual growth. We explore the spiritual blindness that afflicts the unenlightened mind and how prayer can be a beacon, guiding them towards the truth. As we close, we invite you to join us in this life of grace, a daily journey of renewal that molds our minds and hearts to mirror the truth of God's Word, transforming our every step into a testament of His unending love and grace.

Is Water Baptism Necessary for Salvation? https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Is Water Baptism Necessary for Salvation? It is a common question among Christians and a debate among many who are considered to be leaders. Is it necessary to be baptized in water to be saved? We attend often ceremonies where infants and children are baptized in water and many questions are raised. What does the bible tell us about baptism? In this video we will explore the truth about baptism in hopes that you will be able to settle this issue and have peace in Christ. Below are a few of the passages we cover on the topic as we look at what baptism is, what it means, and why it is such a blessing to understand. John 1:30 NET “This is the one about whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who is greater than I am, because he existed before me.’ 1:31 I did not recognize him, but I came baptizing with water so that he could be revealed to Israel.” Mathew 3:11 NIV “I baptize you with water, for repentance, but the one coming after me is more powerful than I am—I am not worthy to carry his sandals! He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Ephesians 4:4 NET “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you too were called to the one hope of your calling, 4:5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

True Baptism: No water required. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Why Does Salvation by Faith Alone Matter? The doctrine of sola fide asserts that God’s pardon for guilty sinners is granted to and received through faith alone, excluding all works and deeds. Many of us have heard the phrase, but do not realize why it is such an important scriptural doctrine, especially when it comes to celebrations such as baptism with water, that institutions use to set the stage for all the other "necessary works" we must do to maintain this new found fellowship with our Lord. Listen in and see the mighty blessing we receive with a true baptism of the Spirit.

Debate: Free Will vs Predestination. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a theological journey with me and my guest Lee as we tackle the age-old debate of free will versus divine predestination. Our dialogue spans the breadth of human autonomy pitted against the immutable will of the Almighty, dissecting notions like sovereignty and election with the precision of scholars. We tear through the fabric of Calvinist doctrines, juxtaposing them with arguments that bring human choice to the forefront, and shed light on the convoluted paths of salvation and destiny. Whether you're a staunch believer in destiny or an advocate for the power of choice, this episode promises to stir the pot of contemplation and challenge your convictions. As the conversation deepens, biblical stories become our battlefield, with tales of Abraham's audacity, Jonah's evasion, and Moses' hesitancy serving as exemplars of the complex dance between God's command and our will. Lee and I dissect these ancient narratives, searching for clues to the puzzle – is our fate etched in stone by the divine, or do we wield the chisel ourselves? We weave through the themes of grace, repentance, and the debated concept of predestination, all while maintaining a reverence for the mysteries of faith and the role they play in our lives. In our final musings, we recognize that grasping these esoteric concepts requires more than mere intellect; it demands the humility to seek understanding through prayer and reflection. We invite listeners to grapple with the harmony of surrendering to powers greater than ourselves and the solace found in such surrender. Join us for this thought-provoking episode that doesn't just scratch the surface but seeks the profound depths of one of Christianity's most enduring enigmas.

Forgiveness Explored, Sin's Bonds Broken. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Prepare to have your understanding of forgiveness and repentance reshaped as we tackle the provocative belief that Christians should continually seek forgiveness from God. With our insightful guest, we dissect the true essence of 1 John 1:9, scrutinizing the conventional requirement for constant penitence and bringing to light the Apostle John's emphasis on acknowledging sin over repetitive pleas for mercy. This episode promises a transformative look at confession through the lens of grace received at the cross, challenging the listener to re-evaluate the role of forgiveness in their spiritual walk. We then embark on a journey to redefine repentance, shifting from the traditional perception of sorrowful atonement to a liberating call for a change of mind. Our conversation traverses ancient Jewish customs to the revolutionary teachings of Jesus, illuminating how this change signifies a move from strict adherence to the law towards a life of grace and truth. Delving into the implications this has for believers today, we underscore the importance of renewing our minds to maintain spiritual vibrancy and question the qualifications necessary to teach such vital truths. As the narrative unfolds, we reflect on the profound symbolism of the torn temple curtain, contemplating the open access to the divine it heralds for all of us. We scrutinize how misinterpretations of Christ's identity can weigh down believers with unwarranted guilt, obscuring the magnificence of Jesus's sacrifice. Closing with a call to embrace our new identity free from the shackles of sin, we invite you to join us for a profound reexamination of what it truly means to worship in spirit and truth, celebrating the grace and freedom we have in Christ.

Out of the Dark Into the Light: 1 John 1. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Are you prepared to peel back the layers of the First Epistle of John with Melissa and me? We're setting the scene with a rich historical backdrop of early church persecution and the profound transition from law-based righteousness to the embrace of grace. Together, we explore the profound mysteries and messages within the first chapter of this pivotal New Testament letter. As we navigate the complexities of apostolic authority, fellowship, and the joy of sharing the gospel message, our conversation illuminates the tangible experience of Jesus Christ and the essential role of proclamation in the life of the believers. Melissa and I candidly tackle the intricate issues of sin, confession, and the seismic cultural shifts that the early Christians faced. The passage from adherence to the law to the liberation of grace wasn't merely theological but deeply personal and challenging. We dissect the first-century Jewish audience's perspective on John's teaching, while contemplating the transformative implications of 1 John 1:9. Our discussion underscores the unwavering resolve of the early church to persevere through persecution and maintain steadfast fellowship with God and one another. In wrapping up our study of the first chapter of the epistle, we leave no stone unturned, ensuring that you, our listeners, are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the text. As we set the stage for our continued exploration into the subsequent chapters, we invite you to engage with us, bringing your reflections and inquiries to the forefront of our next episode. Join us on this enlightening journey, as we forge a deeper connection with the timeless wisdom of the First Epistle of John.

The Propitiation for our Sins: 1 John 2. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a transformative journey through the heart of faith and scripture as we grapple with the essence of Jesus' commandments and the stark contrast between love for the world and love for the Father. This episode promises to elucidate the complex interplay between the Old and New Covenants as outlined in 1 John chapter 2. We delve into the profound theological implications for Christians, both in early history and in today's world, and invite you to reflect on the profound significance of grace over law in the life of a believer. As we navigate the spiritual terrain of obedience and faith, we uncover the rich symbolism of the temple curtain's tear and the implications for the sacrificial system's end. This episode addresses the challenges faced by the early Christian communities, including the ideological battles and the complexities of upholding Jesus' example. The path of walking as Jesus walked is not about adherence to commandments but embracing a life steeped in dependence on God, a lesson both ancient and utterly relevant to our contemporary quest for a meaningful Christian experience. Finally, the episode crescendos with an exploration of the early church's resilience in the face of the Antichrist's emergence and John's empowering message to his spiritual descendants. We cap off with eager anticipation for our next foray into the depths of John's epistle. It's more than a study; it's an invitation to grow spiritually and gain a deeper understanding of the abiding truth that has shaped Christian doctrine through the ages. Join us for an episode that's as enlightening as it is heartfelt, and let's continue to expand our biblical knowledge together.

Our Divine Identity: 1 John 3. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a transformative exploration with us as we navigate the depths of 1 John 3, unveiling the distinct identity bestowed upon us as believers and the steadfast assurances of faith. Discover the essence of being God's children and how this shapes our understanding of righteousness, sin, and love through the lens of the New Testament. This episode will not only reinforce your spiritual foundations but also inspire a profound appreciation for the apostolic teachings that unite the past with our present and future in God's grand narrative. As we sift through the nuances of biblical hope and the apostolic era, you'll gain a fresh perspective on living in alignment with God's commandments. The transition from Old to New Covenant brings a revelation of grace that transforms our relationship with the Creator, inviting us into a familial bond as His children. Our dialogue will guide you through the evidence of the Spirit's presence in our lives and the ways in which we manifest Christ's love, offering solace and strength as you walk the path of faith. Concluding with a heartfelt discussion on building trust amidst life's adversities, we confront the skepticism born from the world's suffering and injustice. We assert the pivotal role of trust in God's goodness and love, instilling hope that resonates beyond our podcast into the daily lives of our listeners. Encouraged by your engagement, we eagerly anticipate connecting with you through our website and social media as we continue to foster a supportive community of believers, eager to uplift each other in our collective spiritual journey.

The Lord’s Supper- Communion Explained. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. When we think of the Lord’s Supper, Communion, Eucharist, I think most people today have heard things said by their church leader such as- *Take this time to evaluate yourself. *Present your sin to the Lord. *Cleanse yourself through confession so that you can properly take the Lord’s Supper in a worthy manner. *If you have not examined yourself let the cup pass. Where do these ideas come from? Well, I can tell you, and also show you how these passages don’t mean what your leader, preacher, pastor, priest, is probably telling you they mean. The passage below will be the main focus on this topic as it contains the most relevant information we have on the topic in our bibles. I hope you enjoy as we explore the depths of this incredible celebration and how it was done by the first century Christians! 1 Corinthians 11:17 NIV “Now in giving the following instruction I do not praise you, because you come together not for the better but for the worse. 11:18 For in the first place, when you come together as a church I hear there are divisions among you, and in part I believe it. 11:19 For there must in fact be divisions among you, so that those of you who are approved may be evident. 11:20 Now when you come together at the same place, you are not really eating the Lord’s Supper. 11:21 For when it is time to eat, everyone proceeds with his own supper. One is hungry and another becomes drunk. 11:22 Do you not have houses so that you can eat and drink? Or are you trying to show contempt for the church of God by shaming those who have nothing? What should I say to you? Should I praise you? I will not praise you for this! 11:23 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night in which he was betrayed took bread, 11:24 and after he had given thanks he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 11:25 In the same way, he also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, every time you drink it, in remembrance of me.” 11:26 For every time you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. 11:27 For this reason, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 11:28 A person should examine himself first, and in this way let him eat the bread and drink of the cup. 11:29 For the one who eats and drinks without careful regard for the body eats and drinks judgment against himself. 11:30 That is why many of you are weak and sick, and quite a few are dead. 11:31 But if we examined ourselves, we would not be judged. 11:32 But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned with the world. 11:33 So then, my brothers and sisters, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. 11:34 If anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, so that when you assemble it does not lead to judgment. I will give directions about other matters when I come.”

Ananias and Sapphira Explained. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. When you read Acts Chapter 5 were you a bit shocked at what took place? Who killed Ananias and Sapphira? Were they saved? Who were these people and why does it matter? Let's take a closer look at this story in the book of acts to see why understanding what happened here could make a real difference on how you understand the gospel and the finished work of Jesus Christ.

The Truth about Simon the Sorcerer. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. The Truth about Simon the Sorcerer. Have you read Acts Chapter 8 and wondered what the deal was with Simon the Sorcerer? Some say he was a false convert. Why did Peter rebuke him so harshly? Did he receive the Holy Spirit? Let’s dig into this section of the book of acts to examine what really had to be going on here.

Be filled with the Spirit. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Be filled with the Spirit. In scripture we see several references to believers that had already received (and were filled with) the Holy Spirit being filled with the Holy Spirit. What is the meaning of this? How can those who are filled be filled again? In this message I will go over the following passages and discuss what is happening here with the Christians being filled with the spirit. Acts 2:3-5 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Acts 4:7-9 They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: “By what power or what name did you do this?” Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed, Acts 4:30-32 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. Ephesians 5:17-19 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, Act 13:49 The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. But the Jewish leaders incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. So they shook the dust off their feet as a warning to them and went to Iconium. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. Galatians So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

Walk by the Spirit. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. If we are already in the Spirit and the Spirit is in us, what is walking in the Spirit? If we are to follow the example of Jesus we would need to be fully dependent on the Father. The full dependency on God the Father is how Jesus fulfilled his work in his body of flesh. Jesus was also born spiritually alive, His physical birth was by divine intervention. Jesus describes himself as the vine and us as the branches. He produces the fruit and we bear it freely. Most of today's views from a "grace perspective" promote something along the lines of us waking up in the morning and having to choose whether we will walk in the Spirit or walk in the flesh. Is this a Spiritual view or does it actually teach us how NOT to walk in the Spirit? Let's take a closer look at what scripture has to say about this topic. Galatians (5:16-26) NIV So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Galatians (3:1-3) NIV You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by believing what you heard? Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?

Jesus already came back. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. In today's podcast I discuss 101 reasons why the second coming prophecies were already fulfilled in the first century. Specifically in the 70 A.D. destruction of Jerusalem. The law was abolished and vanished forever, we are living in the new age of the new covenant. See our website episodes page for the full list of passages of which we cover over 60 in this episode...

Debate: Should Christians ask God for forgiveness? https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Could your understanding of forgiveness be fundamentally transformed by a single conversation? Prepare to have your beliefs challenged and your spiritual insights deepened as Melissa and I engage in a dynamic debate on the necessity of Christians asking God for forgiveness. With scripture as our battleground and tradition as our guide, we dissect the role of confession in a believer's life, and ponder the profound implications of grace that might just redefine your daily walk with Christ. As we delve into the heart of Christian theology, you'll witness a respectful clash of interpretations and traditions. Our discussion serves as a pilgrimage through the ancient texts, examining the compelling messages of apostles like Paul and Peter, as well as the transformative love described by John. We sift through the metaphoric light and darkness of sin, laying bare the question of whether believers need to continually seek forgiveness, or if Christ's sacrifice has forever altered the landscape of atonement. Melissa, with her incisive perspective, leads us to consider the practical manifestations of these theological standpoints. The crescendo of our exchange culminates in an exploration of identity—how the redemptive power of Jesus' sacrifice forges a new Christian identity, one that transcends the sin dilemma and beckons us to live in the freedom of God's love. You're invited to reflect on the eternal tension between sin, forgiveness, and grace, and perhaps leave with a renewed sense of what it means to embody the love of Christ. This episode promises a journey of faith-filled discovery, leaving no heart unchanged and no stone unturned.

One "Hell" of a Bible Translation- Part 1. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Have you ever stopped to ponder the true origins and meanings behind the term 'Gehenna,' so often equated with the fiery abyss of hell? Prepare to have your preconceptions upended as we trace the term back to its roots, examining the New Testament and the historical devastation of Jerusalem in AD 70. Our exploration takes us through the annals of scripture, with insights from the Jewish historian Josephus, to uncover the original intent of these passages. As we walk through the intertwined paths of history and theology, we'll reconsider the afterlife's fiery depths and discover the dramatic reinterpretation of 'Gehenna' from a place of eternal damnation to a symbol with much more immediate implications for Jesus' contemporaries. This episode also casts a discerning eye on the biblical depictions of unquenchable fire and divine judgment. By revisiting the actions of King Josiah and the prophetic warnings from Isaiah to Jesus, we peel away centuries of misinterpretation to reveal a narrative steeped in metaphor, rather than literal eternal torment. Join us as we dissect these ancient metaphors and weigh their true significance. Then, turning to the apocalyptic tones of the Book of Revelation, we'll decode the symbolic language to understand its earth-bound warnings relevant to the early Christian community. This is not an episode about the end of days but a call to grasp the urgency and immediacy of the biblical message, and it promises to ignite a fire of understanding in all who listen.

One "Hell" of a Bible Translation- Part 2. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Is eternal torment a Biblical certainty, or have we misunderstood ancient texts? Join Melissa and me as we unpack the rich man and Lazarus narrative from Luke 16, probing into terms like 'Hades' and 'Sheol' and their original scriptural contexts. We dissect historical translations and biases that could have shaped our perceptions of the afterlife, questioning the literal versus allegorical nature of this provocative parable. Our journey through the text invites a reevaluation of conventional hell concepts, as we consider the broader implications of Jesus' teachings on life, death, and the promise of resurrection and eternal life. Our analysis doesn't stop at the rich man's gates; we venture further into the parables of Matthew 22 and Luke 16, illuminating Jesus' messages to the Pharisees about the kingdom of God. We scrutinize the imagery of the wedding feast and Abraham's bosom, revealing the radical inclusion of Gentiles as heirs to the Abrahamic promise through faith in Christ. Throughout the episode, we connect the dots between the destruction of Jerusalem, historical interpretations, and the challenging task of seeking truth amidst scriptural complexities. As we conclude our exploration, we grapple with concepts of divine justice and the controversial characterizations of hell, urging a reflection on the mercy we've received and the love we're called to extend even to our enemies. This episode isn't just a theological deep dive—it's a heartfelt call to embody the grace and compassion that define the true nature of God. So, listen in and be prepared to have your assumptions challenged and your understanding deepened, as we bridge ancient wisdom with modern faith.

What is New Covenant Teaching? https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Most Christians have heard the words new covenant and even seen churches with the name. But what is new covenant teaching? In order to understand this topic we need understand things like what the new covenant was, when exactly it began, why it began, and how it applies to Christians today. Do you want a better understanding of this amazing historical event?

The Good Person and the Christian. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Can we truly call ourselves good without God? This soul-searching question is at the heart of today's episode as we delve into Jesus Christ's profound spiritual truth that only God embodies pure goodness. Join me, Lenny, as we unpack the challenging concept that while we as humans can perform admirable actions, it is only through the transformative power of God's spirit, when in union with Christ, that we can bear the genuine fruits of goodness. We examine how scripture, from Jesus's parables to the prophetic visions of Ezekiel, illuminates the path to a new heart and spirit, revealing the divine source of all righteousness. This episode isn't just a theological exploration—it's a crucial call to vigilance against complacency and false teachings. As we navigate through the striking difference between charitable acts performed by those filled with the Holy Spirit and those without, we're reminded of the apostles' dire warnings and the necessity of discerning true spiritual fruit. I will guide you through an understanding of what it means to have authentic goodness, and how it's not just our actions but the spirit from which they spring that defines our closeness to God. Prepare to reinforce your faith and learn how to uphold the gospel's truth in a world rife with imitations of virtue.

Above the Angels. https://wakinguptograce.com Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a transformative exploration of spiritual rebirth with us, as we dissect the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus to uncover the profound implications of being 'born again.' This isn't just a theological concept; it's an experience that elevates us beyond our earthly existence, granting us a status higher than even the angels. Our discussion delves into the enigmatic process of natural and spiritual birth, guided by divine will rather than human choice, and the incredible opportunity to become children of God through faith in Christ. Journey with us as we marvel at the life of Jesus, whose unique birth set the foundation for our path to spiritual renewal. Through heartfelt stories and scriptural wisdom, we reveal the miraculous inner change that drives a person to embrace Jesus as Lord, becoming a vital part of God's eternal family. Tune in and let your heart be stirred by the mystery and grace of being born anew, an act orchestrated by God's sovereign hand, bringing life to what was once spiritually dead.