The Austin Stone Podcast

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

Jimmy McNeal examines the need for wisdom, the way to wisdom, and the limits of wisdom to reveal our hope in Jesus.

Your wildest dreams can be disappointing. What is perceived as bold truth-telling could be a trap. Contentment is a miracle. In this week’s podcast we discuss how to wait on the Lord for joy, how to fight for contentment, and how to rest in Jesus for all that God has given to us.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

Explore the complexity of faith through Solomon's reflections on prosperity and idol worship. Discover the struggle between hope and despair, illustrating the fight against our flawed nature. Unearth the paradox of abundance, where material wealth often overshadows true joy. Delve into the spiritual significance of stewardship, emphasizing how financial habits reflect one's faith. This conversation invites listeners to embrace radical generosity and cultivate contentment in a God-centered life.