Waking up to Grace Ministries

James: The Gospel Before the Cross. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/james-the-gospel-before-the-cross/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Discover the profound insights of James's letter and its old covenant roots as we explore how this context reshapes our application of its timeless wisdom. Our newest episode of Waking Up to Grace delves into the possibility that James penned his epistle during the time of Jesus's earthly ministry, framing it within the old covenant and setting the stage for a transformative understanding of its messages. We take you on a journey through the pivotal transitional period of Acts 19, weighing the implications of old covenant faith in light of Christ's completed work and the indwelling Holy Spirit post-Pentecost that revitalizes our Christian walk today. The "crown of life" reveals its scriptural depth as we connect its threads throughout the Bible, casting new light on the reward for steadfast faith. We contemplate the humility displayed by the heavenly host, their crowns laid at the Lord's feet, and what that means for us, as believers, striving for the same faithfulness. Grappling with the interplay of faith and works, we revisit the Shema's profound impact on Jewish devotion and its reflection in James's teachings. The discussion navigates the complex balance between the ancient laws and Jesus's new commandments on humility and leadership, providing a nuanced look at the internal struggles Paul shares in his letters. Concluding our session, we turn to James's poignant words to the Israelites, interpreting his call for humility and grace through the lens of an audience not yet introduced to the new covenant through Christ's sacrifice. We dissect the historical context of the term "church," the role of the "righteous person," and the echoes of Jesus's rebukes to the Pharisees found within James's letter. Our episode aims not only to enlighten but also to reaffirm our identity as part of the new creation and our vital participation in the ministry of reconciliation. Join us for this deeply enlightening discussion that promises to enrich your spiritual perspective and daily walk with God.

Faith without Works is Dead: An Introduction to James. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/faith-without-works-is-dead-an-introduction-to-james/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Prepare to have your thoughts challenged as we unpack the enigmatic letter of James, a text that both perplexes and enlightens. Delving into the roots of its controversies, we navigate the waters of authorship and its almost exclusion from the canon, while also examining the letter's stark contrast with Paul's teachings on faith and works. Discover why this pivotal document, which focuses on the "law of liberty" and addresses the scattered 12 tribes, has been a cornerstone for theological debate throughout the centuries. It takes a robust conversation to unravel the complexities of the early church's dynamics, especially at the pivotal Council of Jerusalem. Join us to explore the intricate dance between the fledgling Christian faith and deep-seated Jewish traditions during the integration of Gentile believers. We scrutinize the figure of James—was he a strict legalist or are we missing the context of his writing? Finally, we bridge the teachings of James with those of Jesus, showcasing their surprising alignment on law based faith and righteousness. From embracing trials with joy to the perils of wealth, James's words echo the core messages of Jesus' Sermon on the mount in Mathew 5-7. This episode invites you to challenge what you have been told about the letter of James and hear insight that may help you to understand his words more clearly from another perspective.

Fully Accepted Forever. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/fully-accepted-forever/ 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. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/the-truth-about-the-tithe/ 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.

Israel is no longer God's holy nation. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/will-the-true-israel-please-stand-up/ 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. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/transformed-by-grace-embracing-a-new-heart-and-spirit/ 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? Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/is-water-baptism-necessary-for-salvation/ 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. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/true-baptism-no-water-required/ 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.

Forgiveness Explored, Sin's Bonds Broken Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/forgiveness-explored-sins-bonds-broken/ 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.

The Lord’s Supper- Communion Explained. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/the-lords-supper-communion-explained/ 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. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/ananias-and-sapphira-explained/ 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. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/the-truth-about-simon-the-sorcerer/ 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. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/be-filled-with-the-spirit/ 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. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/how-do-you-walk-by-the-spirit/ 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. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/jesus-already-came-back/ 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...

What is New Covenant Teaching? Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/what-is-new-covenant-teaching/ 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. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/the-good-person-and-the-christian/ 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. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/above-the-angels/ 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.

1 John 1:9 – What is it REALLY about? Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/1-john-19-what-is-it-really-about/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Have you been told that 1 John 1:9 teaches us to perpetually ask God to forgive our sins, to cleanse yourself daily through confession, in order to be in fellowship with God? I know I was. If you were too, this message is for you. May the truth about 1 John 1:9 set you free!

Is the Lord's Prayer for Christians? Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/is-the-lords-prayer-for-christians/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Is the Lord's Prayer a mere sequence of words to be recited? Prepare to have your perspective shifted as we dissect the layers of this ancient prayer. The title "Lord's Prayer" may not be scripture-born, but its place within the narrative of the law is profound, especially considering Jesus's intent to fulfill, not simply uphold it. As we venture through the "Sermon on the Mount", we confront the heightened demands of the law, and dare to question whether human efforts could ever meet such divine criteria. Our conversation illuminates the role of grace as the true cornerstone of Christian doctrine, challenging the attainability of righteousness without it. Our discussion brings forth the transformative power at the heart of the Christian narrative—the sacrifice of Christ. Listen and reflect on how authentic Christian practice moves beyond religious actions to embrace a life transformed by grace, offering forgiveness and a new identity. Join us for a profound exploration of not just a prayer, but a way of life that transcends the written word.