Ask Pastor John

Explore the paradox of God's kindness and how it can both convict and uplift us. Delve into Ezekiel 36:22, unraveling the complexities of God's motives for our sake. Discover the lavish grace promised to Israel that ultimately glorifies God while blessing His people. Learn how true kindness reveals our shame and leads to genuine repentance. Personal stories illustrate the transformative power of kindness, showing how it can expose wrongdoing and inspire heartfelt change.

The discussion dives into the intriguing interpretation of Psalm 82 and its implications on the nature of divinity. With a gripping account, the host explains how Jesus cleverly used this psalm to defuse a life-threatening situation with an angry mob. It’s revealed that the 'gods' referenced may actually refer to heavenly beings rather than humans. Through a strategic defense, Jesus challenges the accusations of blasphemy and exposes the injustice among the leaders. An insightful exploration of scripture unfolds, revealing the power of words in perilous times.

Discover how Jesus redefines shame and worth in our lives. The discussion dives into the cost of discipleship, emphasizing that saving oneself leads to spiritual loss. Worldly gains pale in comparison to eternal value, as John highlights the futility of seeking esteem from the world. Jesus’ warning about being ashamed of us reflects deep truths about loyalty and identity. Embrace shame for Christ to secure eternal life while understanding the implications for missions work. It's a thought-provoking exploration of values that shape our faith.

The discussion dives into the concept of 'fleshly' Christians, exploring Paul's classifications of natural, carnal, and spiritual believers. Insights reveal how these terms help distinguish between the spiritually immature and the spiritually mature. Pastor John highlights Paul's goal of reassuring believers of their standing in Christ while addressing issues like pride and division among them. This engaging conversation sheds light on the complexities of faith and personal growth in the Christian journey.

Resting in the saving work of Jesus is key to confidence in faith. Doubts trouble many, but there are biblical means to grow assurance. Pursuing assurance earnestly is vital for true belief. Abiding in Christ nurtures confidence and endurance. Combining theology with prayer enhances understanding of hope. Faithfulness in service and battling sin strengthen faith. Suffering can lead to growth in character and hope. Finally, trusting in God’s promise to keep you brings lasting assurance.

In this insightful discussion, John Piper, a Reformed pastor and theologian, explores the fundamental question of how one can truly know they are a Christian. He emphasizes that peace of mind comes from two key signs: a spirited battle against sin and a heartfelt cry of 'Abba Father.' Piper highlights that being led by the Spirit is crucial for recognizing our identity as God's children. He also reflects on the importance of treasuring Christ, particularly in challenging circumstances, making this conversation both profound and deeply encouraging.

The discussion dives into how pastors make wise preaching decisions, considering the mind of Christ. Various aspects of God's will are clarified, including sovereign, moral, and discerned applications. John emphasizes spiritual discernment over mere scriptural commands, tackling decision anxiety. Personal influences like prayer also play a role in sermon selection. He shares how Romans 8 inspired a special prison sermon and highlights key themes like assurance and Christ's provision. The power of prayer throughout the preparation process is also underscored.

Finding a local church can be daunting, but there are key steps to make it easier. Start with earnest prayer for guidance and refresh your understanding of a healthy church. Personal recommendations from trusted locals can offer valuable insights. Utilize the internet wisely, focusing on church substance over style. Assess leadership quality, congregation character, and teaching depth. Ensure the church fosters service and community joy, all while committing the process to prayer.

The discussion dives into the intersection of God's judgment and compassion. Pastor John explores how Lamentations and Jeremiah present seemingly contradictory views of God's heart. He emphasizes that both texts reflect the complex emotions of God—grief intertwined with justice. Examples from Scripture highlight how God experiences joy in repentance while also maintaining rightful anger at sin. Ultimately, divine afflictions are portrayed as deeply felt and rooted in love and justice, revealing the multifaceted nature of God's character.

The discussion dives into the tension between scripture about God's inability to be tempted and Jesus' experiences. The hosts clarify the Greek terms for testing and temptation, showing Jesus faced real external temptations but remained sinless. They explore how James' definitions protect the idea of God testing without enticing to sin. Emphasizing that Jesus felt temptation intensely without yielding, the conversation highlights the profound nature of his sinlessness and experiences.