The Bible Project Daily Podcast

Send us a textPart 3: The Influence of Gurdjieff on the New Age Movement.We trace the impact of Gurdjieff's teachings on the development of the New Age movement. We will identify key New Age practices and philosophies that have their roots in Gurdjieff's ideas.Key Topics:Key figures in the New Age movement influenced by GurdjieffNew Age practices derived from Gurdjieff's teachingsTheological implications of these influencesHow Christians can discern and respond to these influencesBible Verses:2 Corinthians 11:14-15: "And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve."Matthew 7:15: "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves."Finale: A Christian Response to Gurdjieff's Teachings.Our final section provides a comprehensive Christian response to the teachings of George Gurdjieff. We will offer biblical guidance on how to approach Gurdjieff's ideas and the New Age movement, emphasizing the importance of grounding our spirituality in Christ.Key Topics:Summary of Gurdjieff's teachings and their occult rootsBiblical responses to Gurdjieff's key conceptsPractical advice for Christians encountering New Age ideasThe importance of discernment and biblical groundingBible Verses:1 Timothy 4:1: "The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons."James 1:5: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."Thank you for joining us on this journey through the life and teachings of George Gurdjieff from a Christian perspective. We hope this series equips you with the knowledge and discernment needed to navigate the spiritual landscape of today.Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textPart 2: Gurdjieff's Philosophy and Its Occult Foundations.We dig deeper into the philosophical underpinnings of George Gurdjieff's teachings. We will explore the occult roots of his ideas and how they parallel various New Age practices.Key Topics:The concept of the Fourth WayGurdjieff's views on higher consciousness and self-transformationOccult elements in Gurdjieff's teachingsComparison with New Age practicesBible Verses:Deuteronomy 18:10-12: "Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord."Colossians 2:8: "See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ."Gurdjieff's Methods: Music, Movement, and Meditation.We examine the practical methods Gurdjieff used to convey his teachings, including his use of music, movement (such as his sacred dances), and meditation. We will critique these methods from a Christian standpoint and identify their occult influences.Key Topics:Gurdjieff's use of music and sacred dancesMeditation techniques taught by GurdjieffOccult symbolism in Gurdjieff's practicesChristian critique of these methodsBible Verses:Romans 12:2: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."Philippians 4:8: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textWelcome to this bonus episode: "George Gurdjieff: The Occult Roots of the New Age Movement," Today I look into the intriguing and often controversial life and teachings of George Gurdjieff. All three parts of the this short 'between the main podcast' series of 3 podcasts were edited from a much longer single episode made available to my Patrons first on the 14th of October 2024. My goal is to examine his influence on the New Age movement from a Christian perspective, exploring the occult elements embedded within his philosophy and comparing them with the truths found in Scripture. Join me as I try to uncover the hidden aspects of Gurdjieff's teachings and their implications for contemporary Christianity.Part 1: Introduction to George Gurdjieff and His InfluenceI introduce George Gurdjieff, an enigmatic spiritual teacher whose ideas have significantly shaped the New Age movement. I provide an overview of his life, his key teachings, and why it is important to examine these from a Christian perspective.Key Topics:Brief biography of George GurdjieffOverview of Gurdjieff's key teachingsThe significance of Gurdjieff in the context of the New Age movementWhy Christians should study and understand his influenceBible Verses:Ephesians 5:11: "Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them."1 John 4:1: "Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world."Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textThis is a bonus episode of the latest episode of my monthly church history podcast. To binge the entire series, visit; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comFinding God in the Silence: Gregory PalamasIn this episode of the History of the Christian Church podcast, we turn to the 14th century and meet one of the most influential voices of Eastern Christianity: Gregory Palamas. A monk, mystic, and defender of Hesychasm, Palamas taught that the path to God is found not only in theology and doctrine, but in prayer, silence, and communion with the divine. His distinction between the “essence” and “energies” of God became a cornerstone of Orthodox theology.But how should evangelical Christians view Palamas today? Can we learn from his emphasis on prayer and communion with God while still holding firmly to the sufficiency of Scripture and the finished work of Christ? Join us as we explore his life, his teaching, and why he still matters.Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textWelcome back, friends. Today, we’re wrapping up our series on 1 Corinthians with what I’m calling “A Book Review.” If there’s any church in the New Testament that feels like it could be dropped right into the modern world, it’s the church at Corinth. Because of the issues they were facing then? They’re the very same issues the church faces today. Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textEpisode Notes:Churches are messy. Families are messy. Life is messy. And when you’re in the middle of it, the temptation is to grow sharp, critical, or even walk away.But Paul’s closing words to the Corinthians give us something better: five short commands that can anchor us in the middle of chaos.In this episode, we’ll explore how to:Stay spiritually alert and grounded in truth.Stand firm with courage and strength.Submit to godly leaders and encourage quiet servants.And most of all — let everything we do be done in love.Because love is what keeps us from being consumed by the mess.Key Scripture:“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:13–14Takeaway:Don’t let the mess make you bitter. Let it make you better at loving people.Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textWelcome:When Paul begins to closes his letter to the Corinthians, he includes what looks like a simple travel log — where he plans to go, who he plans to send, and how long he’ll stay. At first glance, it feels ordinary. But hidden in those details is a surprisingly practical lesson on how Christians should make decisions.In this episode, we’ll explore:Why Paul sometimes based choices on spiritual priority — and why that must always come first.How he also used practical wisdom when no clear spiritual issue was at stake.What it means to live with an attitude of “If the Lord permits” in our daily planning.Why Christians don’t need to be paralyzed by fear of missing God’s will in everyday matters.Paul shows us that decision-making isn’t about waiting for a mystical sign at every crossroads. Instead, it’s about living wisely, faithfully, and with open hands — seeking God’s kingdom above all, but also using the common sense He gave us.Takeaway: The Christian life is both spiritual and practical. Make your plans with wisdom, but hold them lightly, always ready to say, “If the Lord wills.”Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textEpisode Notes: In this episode, we step into the final chapter of 1 Corinthians, where Paul turns to a very practical subject: Money. If that makes you a little uncomfortable — you’re not alone! But Paul shows us that how we handle money is deeply connected to our discipleship.In just four verses, he lays out a Spirit-inspired pattern for giving that still speaks powerfully today.Key TakeawaysGiving is for everyonePaul says, “each one of you” — no exemptions.It’s not about equal amounts but equal commitment.Giving should be regular“On the first day of every week…”Generosity isn’t an afterthought — it’s an act of worship woven into the rhythm of our lives.Giving is proportional“…in keeping with your income.”The more God has blessed you, the more you’re called to give.Giving must be handled with integrityPaul insists on accountability.Transparency protects both the church and the giver.ApplicationPaul’s message is simple: you need a plan.Not just a vague idea, not a last-minute gift under pressure — but a thoughtful, regular, intentional plan for how you give.Start somewhere, even if it’s small.Build generosity into your financial rhythm.Remember: giving isn’t really about money — it’s about living with a posture of generosity in light of resurrection hope.EncouragementBecause Christ is risen, our giving isn’t in vain. Every act of generosity, every gift sown, is an investment in eternity.We live with resurrection hope. We serve with resurrection power. We give with resurrection generosity.Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textIt began with a doubt in the Corinthian church — is there really a resurrection of the dead? That doubt spread into denial, and eventually divided the believers. So, they turned to Paul, and his sweeping answer in 1 Corinthians 15 leaves no room for uncertainty:Christ is risen — and because He lives, all who belong to Him will also rise.Our perishable bodies cannot inherit eternity — but in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, we will be changed.The rapture is coming — whether raised from the grave or transformed while living, every believer will receive the perfect, glorified body that no diet, gym, or surgery could ever produce.Death is defeated — its sting removed through Christ’s victory at the cross and empty tomb.Paul closes with both encouragement and challenge: “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.” (v. 58)This episode explores the mystery, the triumph, and the hope of the resurrection — and why it should move us to godly living, courageous faith, and overflowing service for Christ.Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textEpisode Notes: When we talk about proving the resurrection, we usually reach for the familiar arguments — the authority of Scripture, the empty tomb, the eyewitnesses. Those are strong, solid, and true. But in 1 Corinthians 15, Paul takes an unexpected path.In this message, we explore three of Paul’s strange but powerful arguments for the resurrection — ones you won’t often hear in an apologetics book, but that cut straight to how we live, who we walk with, and what we’re willing to risk for Christ.Paul’s logic is simple but searching: if there is no resurrection, then why endure suffering, why pursue holiness, why sacrifice for the gospel? But if there is a resurrection — and there is — then everything changes.Belief in the resurrection isn’t just about proving a point — it’s about shaping a life.Because if Christ is risen, then living for Him is not only worth it — it’s the only thing that makes sense.Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com