Resident Strangers

Welcome back to Resident Strangers! Whether you’re listening or watching, we’re so glad you’re here. If you’re a Christ follower, you may have heard the term deconstruction—but what does it really mean? Interestingly, even within Christian circles, this word carries different interpretations. As the conversation around deconstruction grows, Steve and Rich are dedicating the next two weeks to unpacking its significance. Is deconstruction simply about asking tough questions about faith? Or is there something deeper—perhaps even darker—beneath the surface? Rich suggests that much of deconstruction revolves around questioning authority, while Steve traces its philosophical roots back to Jacques Derrida, noting that the concept can even be seen as far back as Genesis 3. In many ways, it’s not a new idea at all. Rich also introduces The Path of Deconstruction, explaining how personal crises often trigger deep doubts and reexaminations of belief. While moments of crisis can reveal flaws in our thinking, they also present an opportunity to lean on Jesus like never before. Wrestling with faith can, in the end, lead to a deeper relationship with Him. Don’t miss next week’s episode as we continue this important conversation in Part 2!Check out Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Steve's January 2025 sermon on DeconstructionBooks Steve recommends:The Deconstruction of Christianity by Alisa Childers & Tim BarnettSet Adrift by Sean McDowell & John MarriottSign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.com Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.

Allow us to reintroduce ourselves! Resident Strangers has been a podcast for the past year and a half, but now Sarah, Steve, and Rich are thrilled to share that the podcast is not only available on audio platforms — it’s also on YouTube! This long-awaited expansion has the whole crew excited to bring you content in a brand-new way. A huge shoutout to Brandon Petry for his incredible work in building the brand-new studio where the podcast is now filmed and recorded. Special thanks also go to Brittany Petry, Brandon Lloyd, and Hailey Keller for their valuable contributions! In this episode, Sarah and Steve offer some background on Desert Springs Community Church, where the podcast is produced. Steve has been the pastor there for 30 years, and Sarah serves on the full-time staff. Rich, a professor at Grand Canyon University, also serves as an elder at the church. The group reflects on their years in ministry together and shares the story of how the podcast began. Steve opens up about his passion for helping those who follow Jesus think biblically in a world that often feels foreign. He explains how the events of 2020 sparked a desire to create a space for conversations about the importance of studying theology. Rich also emphasizes the importance of unwavering allegiance to Jesus, no matter the circumstances we face. We hope this episode offers a deeper understanding of who we are, and we can’t wait to have you join us — whether you’re listening or watching. Thanks for being part of the Resident Strangers community!Check out Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥 Other podcasts produced at Desert Springs - The Stories Collective + The Now Life*available wherever you listen to podcastsMake sure you check out the book Rich was a part of writing! An Introduction to Philosophy: A Christian Guide to the Things That Really MatterSign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.com Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.

As you listen to this episode, you might catch the faint sounds of the Desert Springs youth band playing in the background. This sparks a moment of nostalgia for Sarah, Steve, and Rich as they reflect on their early years in ministry. Let the music serve as a reminder that the next generation is actively worshiping God together! After reminiscing, Steve and Rich dive into today’s topic: replacement theology. Rich explains that this view holds that Israel no longer functions as God’s chosen people and that the church has taken its place. Steve, however, points to the new covenant in Jeremiah 31, emphasizing that he and Rich do not align with this perspective. Instead, they believe that Israel still has a future in God’s plan, which directly connects to broader discussions about what is to come. A key factor in this debate is how Scripture is read and interpreted. One of the most contested passages on this topic is Romans 11, which raises the question: Does the existence of modern Israel indicate that God is not finished with His people? While the answer doesn’t solely rest on Israel as a nation-state, it does reinforce a crucial truth—God keeps His promises. Rich takes the discussion deeper, addressing a common concern: If the church has not replaced Israel, does that imply multiple paths to salvation—one through Jesus and another through biological descent from Abraham? This is a critical theological question, but the main takeaway from today’s episode is clear: God’s promises are certain and irrevocable. Of course, this conversation is complex and can’t be fully captured in a summary—so we encourage you to listen closely to the full discussion! And don’t forget, Steve is leading a trip to Israel this November—a great opportunity to explore these themes firsthand!November 2025 Israel Trip Info Meeting Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list Questions or comments? Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.com Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.

Big things are on the horizon for Resident Strangers! While Sarah is keeping the details under wraps for now, exciting changes are coming soon—so stay tuned! Steve and Rich are just as eager for what’s ahead. In today’s discussion, the focus shifts to the eternal state. Right away, Rich challenges the common idea that a believer’s future is simply about dying and going to heaven. Instead, the story of what comes next actually begins in Genesis—a fascinating perspective to consider. Steve then takes the conversation to Revelation 21, where God’s heart for His people is revealed. It all connects back to His original design in the garden, and one day, those who know Jesus will experience the fulfillment of His perfect plan. A time is coming when there will be no more mourning, crying, or pain. Sarah shares a personal moment, reflecting on how Revelation 21 was a profound encouragement to her as a young college student. And as Steve beautifully illustrates, no goodness on this earth can compare to the incredible future that awaits.Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.com Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Today’s episode of Resident Strangers tackles a challenging but essential topic: the Lake of Fire—commonly known as hell. Steve and Rich dive into Revelation 20, a key passage that sheds light on this sobering reality. Rich emphasizes that the existence of hell underscores the urgency of salvation—there is truly something to be saved from. In fact, Jesus spoke more about hell than He did about heaven, reinforcing the reality of divine justice. Because God is just, sin must be accounted for, and hell appears to be the ultimate consequence of that judgment. Another crucial aspect of this discussion is the nature of humanity. Being made in the image of God means possessing an eternal soul from the moment of conception. Originally, mankind was created in perfect relationship with God, but through rebellion, that relationship was broken. Steve and Rich explore how this affects not only physical death but also spiritual separation from God. Rich simplifies it with a profound question: If someone turns away from God—who is the very source of life and love—what exactly are they turning toward? The conversation naturally leads to the topic of free will and the choices each person makes. Jesus repeatedly warned that many will choose the wide path that leads to destruction, but there is only one way to true life—through Him. Ultimately, God’s desire is for people to be in right relationship with Him, not separated. And while the reality of hell is heavy, the message of salvation offers incredible hope!What Does The Bible Say About Death? - Pastor Steve's sermon from February 2025Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.com Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

At the very start of the conversation, Steve extends an invitation to a trip he is leading to Israel this November (details provided below). He then introduces the topic of the day: the kingdom that Jesus establishes at His second coming. A key aspect of this 1,000-year period is that Satan is bound. Some interpret this millennium literally, while others see it as figurative. Rich also emphasizes that one’s interpretation of these passages largely depends on their overall view of the Bible and the end times—something discussed in depth in episode 80. Steve references Old Testament passages that support what is described in Revelation 20. There is so much to anticipate during this time, yet it’s important to recognize that it is not the final, complete heaven—that is something entirely separate. Rich and Steve also reflect on how many people long for peace and propose political solutions, but ultimately, true and lasting peace can only come through Jesus, the Prince of Peace.For information on the November 2025 trip to Israel email Steve Engram at pastor@dscchurch.comSign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.com Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.

This week, Steve and Rich take another deep dive into a previously covered topic: the Judgment Seat of Christ—an area many believers still wrestle with. Right from the start, Steve clarifies an important truth: believers will not stand before Christ to give an account for their sin, but rather for how they lived their lives. One key aspect of this judgment is the opportunity for believers to receive rewards based on their faithfulness. Rich highlights passages such as 2 Corinthians 5, 1 Corinthians 3, and Romans 14 to unpack this concept, emphasizing that the Judgment Seat of Christ is not about salvation or entry into heaven, but about reward. Jesus frequently referenced this idea in His parables, underscoring the importance of living in alignment with truth and being a good steward of what God has entrusted to us. With this in mind, Rich urges believers to recognize that the life lived between salvation and Christ’s return truly matters. Steve adds that the ultimate motivation should be hearing the words of Jesus: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Check out episode 44 for more discussion on the judgement seat of Christ on Resident StrangersThe Now Life podcastFor information on the November 2025 trip to Israel email Steve Engram at pastor@dscchurch.comSign up for the Resident Strangers email list Questions or comments? Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.com Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Today’s episode kicks off with some exciting updates about what’s ahead for Resident Strangers—big things are coming, and you’ll literally see them soon! Sarah and Rich also take a moment to celebrate a huge milestone: Steve’s 30 years of ministry at Desert Springs. Considering the average tenure of a pastor at a single church is less than five years, this is truly remarkable. Steve and his wife, Tami, have been an incredible blessing, and we’re grateful for all that’s ahead in their ministry. After that, Rich and Steve dive into today’s topic—the second coming of Christ. Steve encourages listeners to read through Revelation 19 for a deeper understanding of the events surrounding His return. He also points out that when Jesus first came, many were confused because they expected Him to establish a new kingdom immediately. However, that kingdom will come with His second coming. Rich makes an interesting connection, noting that believers today may feel the same anticipation as those in Jesus’ time, eagerly awaiting His arrival. This should inspire us to live ready and expectant for Christ’s return. As always, Steve and Rich bring plenty of scripture to support their discussion, reminding us that the second coming of Christ is a reason for great joy and excitement. While Jesus has not yet arrived on the white horse, He stands with open arms, ready to embrace all who come to Him by faith.For information on the November 2025 trip to Israel email Steve Engram at pastor@dscchurch.com30th Anniversary Celebration for Pastor Steve + Tami (February 16th)Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.com Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

“Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear and keep what is written in it, for the time is near.” — Revelation 1:3Welcome back to another deep dive on Resident Strangers! The tribulation is a period of judgment on the earth, preparing the way for the coming kingdom of Jesus. How one understands this event largely depends on how the book of Revelation is read and interpreted. In this episode, Rich breaks down four key perspectives on the tribulation—the historicist, preterist, idealist, and futurist views (explained below). Steve connects Revelation to the book of Daniel, showing how the two come together to reveal God’s plan. He also highlights a significant prophetic marker: Israel’s reestablishment as a nation in 1948, a fulfillment of Ezekiel’s prophecy and a sign that we are living in the final days. The conversation also explores the various judgments described in Revelation, painting a vivid picture of Christ’s second coming. Beyond these events, Jesus makes it clear that the end will not come until the gospel has been preached to all nations, leading to a great harvest of souls. Understanding Revelation—and the Bible as a whole—requires discerning when Scripture speaks figuratively and when it speaks plainly. This distinction is crucial for sound interpretation. Ultimately, as Rich reminds us, this knowledge isn’t just for study—it should compel us to live on mission, sharing who Jesus is and what awaits those who put their faith in Him.•Historicist View – Interprets Revelation as a record of historical events, specifically the history of the Western Church rather than history in general.•Preterist View – Argues that everything in Revelation has already taken place, culminating in the destruction of the temple in 70 AD.•Idealist View – Sees Revelation as entirely symbolic, representing timeless spiritual truths rather than specific historical events.•Futurist View – Understands Revelation as a prophecy of future events yet to unfold.Check out episodes 20, 21, 78 + 79 for more discussion on the rapture and the tribulation on Resident StrangersSign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.comWould you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you'd share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Steve, Rich, and Sarah are back this week with another in-depth discussion on the rapture. After a brief catch-up on life, Steve revisits the three major perspectives on when the rapture will occur—post-tribulation, mid-tribulation, and pre-tribulation (explained below). He emphasizes that while the view one holds is important, it does not necessarily rank among the most critical theological issues. Daniel 9 serves as a key reference for understanding the tribulation and God’s intended audience, with Rich contributing additional passages and perspectives to further support the discussion. Both Steve and Rich agree that Jesus could return at any moment; however, they point out that the perspective one holds on the rapture influences whether or not that belief aligns with their understanding. Different views also shape the sense of hope associated with Christ’s return. Rich concludes by reminding believers of the significance of these discussions. He highlights that the anticipation of Jesus’ imminent return offers encouragement to live with purpose, remain steadfast in faith, and endure challenges with perseverance.Post-tribulation view - believers go through the entire time of the tribulation and the resurrection and rapture are combined as Jesus returnsMid-tribulation view - believers go through about 3.5 years of the tribulation with the calling of the Two Witnesses being considered the midpoint (can also be called pre-wrath)Pre-tribulation view - Jesus returns for the church prior to the tribulationCheck out episodes 20 + 21 for more discussion on the rapture and the tribulation on Resident Strangers Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments?Email residentstrangers@dscchurch.com Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.