The Austin Stone Podcast

Discover how to navigate life’s uncertainties and the certainty of death with a vibrant faith. Explore the importance of seeking God’s guidance through challenges and embracing joy even in unpredictability. Reflect on the pursuit of meaning while balancing youthful enthusiasm with the reality of mortality. The conversation highlights finding hope in Jesus’ sacrificial love and emphasizes the joy that comes from remembering God's promises at every stage of life. Engage in a journey of gratitude amidst the fleeting nature of existence.

A small fly can spoil the whole batch. A thousand follies lead to one big disaster. And wisdom doesn’t prevent all suffering or failure. This seems bleak. But take heart, Christian. In this episode, we discuss how the truths of Ecclesiastes instruct us in how to live, even in the suburbs, with courage and hope in Jesus.Join us each week for the Chasing Shadows podcast—new episodes available on Thursdays throughout the Ecclesiastes series.Do you have a question you'd like us to answer? Email us at podcast@austinstone.org.Watch on YouTube

Ross Lester explores the importance of making wise decisions and eliminating foolishness from our lives.

In this engaging discussion, Matt Blackwell, Congregation Pastor at Austin Stone's Northwest Congregation, shares insights from Ecclesiastes. He confronts the inevitability of death, prompting listeners to seek joy and contentment amidst life’s uncertainties. The conversation reveals how embracing mortality can deepen appreciation for relationships and simple pleasures. Blackwell encourages focusing on a higher purpose over personal legacy, while also highlighting the comfort of being remembered by Christ.

How should we make the most of our lives in light of eternity? Ross Lester explores wisdom from the book of Ecclesiastes.

Jesus wasn’t a centrist. That’s too simple a conclusion. And following after Him with earnest zeal does not draw us to a specific political position. Jesus brings an entirely new paradigm. He makes us citizens of His Kingdom by the power of His blood. And yet, God has placed us in this time and this place, and as citizens of His Kingdom, we have been called to proclaim Him with our lives, with our voice, and even with our votes. But how should we vote? Should we vote? Let’s discuss.Join us each week for the Chasing Shadows podcast—new episodes available on Thursdays throughout the Ecclesiastes series.Do you have a question you'd like us to answer? Email us at podcast@austinstone.org.Watch on YouTube

Ross Lester examines how we should respond to modern governing authorities and politics while pursuing a joyful endurance.

Why is it so hard to talk about politics? Is it ok to just check out, turn off the news, and throw away our phones? What has God called us to as believers in a particular place and time? This week we discuss how we can engage in politics with hope, charity, and confidence because we are citizens of God’s Kingdom.Join us each week for the Chasing Shadows podcast—new episodes available on Thursdays throughout the Ecclesiastes series.Do you have a question you'd like us to answer? Email us at podcast@austinstone.org.Watch on YouTube

Halim Suh explores a framework for how Christians should live under modern governing authorities and politics.

God often reveals Himself powerfully and personally to a believer in the midst of suffering. And yet, suffering is a reality for everyone at some point, and bland theological assurances can feel glib to those walking through disaster or devastation. How can we actively seek the joy God provides, avoid the trap of nostalgia, and find support in the community of saints?Join us each week for the Chasing Shadows podcast—new episodes available on Thursdays throughout the Ecclesiastes series.Do you have a question you'd like us to answer? Email us at podcast@austinstone.org.Watch on YouTube