
Word of Life Church Podcast
Word of Life Church in St. Joseph, Missouri is a thriving non-denominational church led by Pastor Brian & Peri Zahnd. We are followers of Jesus seeking to be an authentic expression of the kingdom of Jesus in the twenty-first century. Additional sermon audio and other resources are available on our church website at wolc.com.
Latest episodes

13 snips
Jun 8, 2025 • 37min
The Holy Experience of God
The podcast dives into the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and its role in believers' lives. It vividly describes the dramatic arrival of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, empowering the apostles in a moment of fiery anticipation. The exploration of speaking in tongues highlights its historical journey and the influence of Pentecostal movements worldwide. Listeners are encouraged to embrace the sacraments as a pathway to experience divine presence and grace. Ultimately, it emphasizes forgiveness and the communal nature of faith that invites everyone into a deeper relationship with God.

Jun 1, 2025 • 33min
CHRIST: Fulfilling Scripture, Filling the Cosmos
The Ascension is not about the absence of Christ, but about the ascendancy of Christ. The ascension of Jesus to the right hand of God in the heavens is the ascendancy, the rise, the elevation, the promotion, the exaltation of Jesus to the position of all authority in heaven and on earth. Furthermore, the ascension of Christ does not lead to the absence of Christ, but to his cosmic presence everywhere.

7 snips
May 25, 2025 • 32min
The Third Appearance
Explore the poignant moment of Jesus restoring Peter after his denial, capturing a powerful narrative of failure and redemption. The tender breakfast by the Sea of Galilee serves as a backdrop for deep emotional healing and reaffirmation of love. This touching exchange highlights themes of forgiveness and calling, making it one of the most beautiful stories in scripture.

May 18, 2025 • 31min
Long Road Away From What Was
Two disciples journeying to Emmaus grapple with their disillusionment after Jesus' death. Their encounter with a mysterious stranger reshapes their understanding of scripture, revealing profound insights about redemption. The conversation uncovers the Old Testament as a prophetic framework for recognizing Christ. Emphasis is placed on interpreting Scriptures through Christ's lens, highlighting the resurrection's transformative power. This leads to renewed faith and a passionate urge to share their joyous discovery with others.

4 snips
May 11, 2025 • 35min
Some Doubted. So What?
The discussion opens with the disciples' mix of worship and doubt after Christ’s resurrection, illustrating doubt as a pathway to authentic belief. Philosophical insights from Kierkegaard and Descartes are intertwined with personal faith journeys, stressing the need for a balance between intellect and emotion. Blaise Pascal’s perspective reveals that true comprehension of God stems from the heart, while spiritual intuition is highlighted as essential for navigating life's existential questions. The conversation culminates in the themes of grace and forgiveness, inviting everyone to connect with the divine.

May 4, 2025 • 31min
Astonished Ecstasy
Dive into the impact of the resurrection of Jesus, exploring its theological significance across the Gospels. Experience the emotional journey of three women at the crucifixion and their breathtaking encounter with the empty tomb. Discover how this miraculous event challenges traditional views, redefining truth and purpose. The conversation culminates in a communal celebration, emphasizing the transformative power of resurrection and communion, inviting listeners to embrace a profound sense of divine mystery and grace.

Apr 27, 2025 • 34min
Believing Thomas
Dive into the misunderstood story of Thomas, often unfairly labeled as 'Doubting Thomas.' Discover how his quest for understanding highlights the importance of questioning in faith. Explore the balance between doubt and belief, and how knowledge shapes spiritual journeys. Learn about the radical commitment to Jesus as Lord and the profound loyalty it entails. Finally, reflect on the power of communal confession and the invitation to grace, as the episode emphasizes the active nature of belief in a transformative Christian life.

Apr 20, 2025 • 28min
While It Was Still Dark...
The installation of a church bell symbolizes a new tradition of worship and reflection. The emotional journey of Mary Magdalene is explored, showcasing her transformation from grief to joy upon discovering Jesus' resurrection. The podcast delves into the powerful metaphor of Jesus conquering death and sin, reinforcing the promise of eternal life. Additionally, the significance of communion is discussed, emphasizing its role in connecting believers to divine grace.

6 snips
Apr 13, 2025 • 28min
Palm Sunday: Greatness Redefined
Explore the paradox of greatness as illustrated by Palm Sunday, where Jesus rides in humility on a donkey. Discover how His arrival redefines power by contrasting it with militaristic leaders like Pontius Pilate. Delve into the shift from dominance to service, as Jesus challenges traditional authority with love and compassion. Reflect on the interplay between faith and political power, urging a deeper understanding of greatness rooted in humility. Join in a communal invitation to embrace this transformative vision.

Apr 6, 2025 • 32min
The Fragrance of Eternal Life
The discussion centers around the uplifting story of Lazarus and how it symbolizes the transition from despair to hope. The speakers delve into the importance of recognizing Jesus as the source of eternal life in the face of darkness. They also confront the emotional residues of trauma, particularly from the pandemic, emphasizing the healing power of communion. This journey through grief and renewal offers listeners a refreshing perspective on faith and transformation.