

Word of Life Church Podcast
Pastor Brian Zahnd
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 8, 2024 • 35min
The Mother of God
Explore the profound story of the Annunciation, where Mary’s faith shines amidst fear and promise. Dive into the theological implications of her title as Theotokos, shedding light on the dual nature of Christ. Unravel the mystery of the Incarnation and its significance during Advent. Feel inspired to embody the teachings of the Word, acting as vessels of healing and grace. Reflect on foundational doctrines of suffering and resurrection, embracing a call for grace and communion in community.

Dec 1, 2024 • 34min
The Last and Greatest of the Old Testament Prophets
John the Baptist drinks no wine, because he’s not the one who brings the party, he only prepares the way. The party begins when Jesus turns the water to wine at the wedding feast of Cana. John is Advent; Jesus is Christmas.

Nov 24, 2024 • 33min
You Tell Me
Explore the gripping trial of Jesus before Pontius Pilate and its profound impact on the gospel narrative. Delve into the intersecting themes of truth, freedom, and authority as listeners are challenged to reconsider their beliefs. Discover the radical kingdom of Jesus, emphasizing service and commitment over worldly power. Conclude with a powerful call to worship and communion, inviting everyone to partake in the transformative act of breaking bread, regardless of their faith journey.

Nov 17, 2024 • 34min
"All Will Be Thrown Down"
Explore the profound teachings of Jesus on the transience of worldly institutions and the prophetic destruction of the temple. Discover how the Olivet Discourse warns of false messiahs and calamities while offering a message of hope and eternal life. Engage in a moving call to confession and communion, focusing on repentance and forgiveness, inviting everyone to deeply connect with their faith.

Nov 10, 2024 • 37min
My Soul Waits for the Lord
Psalm 130 invites us to wait for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning. Our souls wait for the Lord because there are no quick and easy paths on the road to spiritual formation. Waiting is inevitable. Waiting is baked into this ancient Christian faith we have received. Instead of a hurried dash through a department story, the Christian life is more like a slow walk down a wooded trail. The Christian life is a slow walk interrupted by moments of grandeur. Most of our days are spent waiting patiently on God. But we don't wait alone. God the Holy Spirit gives us faith, hope, and love to empower us in our waiting.

Nov 3, 2024 • 35min
A Tale Told By An Idiot
Explore the chaos of modern rage and find peace amid turmoil, drawing parallels with literature and history. Delve into Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' to uncover the dark side of ambition versus the virtues of love. Discover the transformative power of prayer and the significance of a hidden chamber for connecting with the divine. Reflect on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, emphasizing St. Teresa of Avila's teachings. Embrace inner peace through faith and the joy of communal rituals.

Oct 27, 2024 • 30min
Being Bartimaeus
Discover the compelling story of Bartimaeus, a blind beggar who defies opposition to seek Jesus' mercy. This tale unpacks profound themes of faith and spiritual enlightenment. Learn why recognizing Jesus as the Son of David is pivotal in Mark's Gospel. The transformation from blindness to vision symbolizes a deeper understanding of faith and prophetic identity.

Oct 20, 2024 • 31min
The Uncontainable Christ
The discussion delves into how Jesus’ disciples misunderstood His kingdom, mistakenly linking it to power over servanthood. It emphasizes that true greatness is found in love and selflessness. The concept of the uncontainable Christ is explored, highlighting His freedom from earthly definitions and the impact of His sacrifice on liberation from sin. The hosts invite listeners to experience the transformational grace of the sacrament, diving into the essence of faith beyond ambitions and political systems.

Oct 13, 2024 • 32min
The Faith of Abraham
Explore the profound faith of Abraham as a journey of obedience and longing for a heavenly homeland. Delve into the disruptive emergence of Christianity that reshaped societal structures through the resurrection of Christ. Experience the concept of pilgrim faith, emphasizing a higher allegiance over worldly aspirations, illustrated through personal stories from the Camino de Santiago. Finally, partake in a communal Eucharistic celebration that highlights God's grace and the inclusive nature of faith.

Oct 6, 2024 • 38min
Riders In the Chariot
Listen to a captivating discussion about transformative encounters, from Philip the Evangelist’s baptism of the Ethiopian Eunuch to personal stories of chance meetings on a train. Discover the power of beauty in rekindling faith through narratives shared at Notre Dame Cathedral. The conversation also delves into a writer's journey from imprisonment to redemption, integrating biblical themes into his work. Finally, the importance of confession, humility, and communal connection in faith is emphasized, inviting all to embrace a spirit of reconciliation.


