The Transformative Power of the Holy Spirit: Sherm Brand
Sherman Brand joins Michael Easley for a compelling conversation about faith, the Holy Spirit, and the transformative power of God in the Christian life. Sherm shares his journey of overcoming apathy, learning to trust God's provision, and finding purpose in suffering. Together, they explore the necessity of dependence on God, the depth of His love as a Father, and the vital role of community in spiritual growth.
Their discussion touches on the ongoing struggle with sin and shame, the call to live out faith through action, and the daily challenge of trusting God. They also highlight the importance of confession and forgiveness, contrasting the dangers of legalism with the freedom found in God's grace. Ultimately, their conversation points to the believer's identity in Christ and the power of authentic community in fostering healing and lasting transformation.
Takeaways:
The Lord loves to do the dishes with you.
We underestimate the beauty of Christ living in us by His Holy Spirit.
Apart from Christ, we can do nothing.
We should not go by feelings in our spiritual journey.
The cares of this world can choke the word and hinder growth.
God wants to take care of us and provide for our needs.
Suffering is often included in our growth process.
He wants to live His life through us, guiding our actions. The term 'co-worker' in Romans highlights the importance of collaboration in faith.
Finding God's work and participating is essential for spiritual growth.
Trusting God is foundational for navigating life's challenges.
Confession is a vital part of the Christian life, leading to forgiveness.
Legalism can be more harmful than outright sinfulness.
Shame is a tool of the enemy, not of God.
Our identity as children of God is paramount and should be valued.
Community is crucial for healing and accountability in faith.
We often underestimate the power of God's grace in our lives.
Living in constant awareness of our sin helps us rely on God's strength.
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Resources mentioned:
Serve As a Verb PodcastĀ
Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on ourĀ Youtube channel.
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47:17
Speaking Truth to Power: Stephen Mansfield
Michael and Stephen discuss the significant influence of the Episcopal Church on national religious ceremonies in the United States, questioning why a declining denomination holds such power. They explore the implications of speaking truth to power, particularly in the context of religious leaders addressing political figures. The discussion also delves into the challenges and responsibilities of Christians in politics, emphasizing the need for integrity and authenticity. Finally, they consider potential changes to how national religious events are conducted, advocating for a more inclusive representation of diverse denominations.
Takeaways:
The Episcopal Church's influence on national ceremonies is disproportionate to its size.
There is a need for a broader representation of denominations in national religious events.
Speaking truth to power can be a double-edged sword, requiring wisdom and discernment.
Christians in politics face unique challenges and must navigate their faith in a self-promoting environment.
The importance of caring for the underprivileged is a common ground for many religious leaders.
Historical context is crucial in understanding the current religious landscape in America.
The conversation highlights the need for integrity among Christian leaders in political spaces.
There is a call for a shift in how national religious ceremonies are conducted to reflect a more diverse representation.
Mansfield emphasize the importance of teaching history rather than erasing it.
Engagement in politics can lead to significant change, especially for younger generations.
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37:42
Trump's Impact on American Politics: Stephen Mansfield
Michael Easley interviews Stephen Mansfield, exploring his background, his work with the Kurdish people, and his insights on the Trump administration. They discuss the complexities of political choices faced by voters, the shifting values within the Christian community, and the evolving landscape of media in America.
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43:43
Confessions from the Pulpit: Mike Glenn and Tim Harlow
Dr. Michael Easley, Mike Glenn, and Tim Harlow continue their conversation from last week and reflect on their ministry experiences, sharing personal stories of grief, transitions, and the emotional burdens they carry. They highlight the importance of accountability, meaningful relationships, and having a support system to navigate the complexities of pastoral life. The conversation also explores the challenges of burnout and maintaining healthy boundaries. Emphasizing the balance between personal and professional relationships, the speakers underscore the importance of maturity, understanding, and supporting others in ministry.
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43:33
Lessons from the Pulpit: Mike Glenn & Tim Harlow
Dr. Michael Easley, Mike Glenn, and Tim Harlow share their personal journeys into ministry, reflecting on their calls to serve, the challenges they faced in their early years, and the crucial role of community and family support. They discuss the lessons learned along the way and how their backgrounds have shaped their ministry approaches. Their conversation explores the realities of ministry, from the struggles and victories of reaching unchurched individuals to overcoming early hurdles and the vital role of mentorship and leadership in church dynamics. They also examine the complexities of decision-making in ministryāwhether to persevere in a challenging position or transition elsewhereāwhile highlighting the importance of empowering lay leaders and uncovering the church's inherent vision.
New Zealand