Many church services are centered on entertainment, which opens the door for celebrity pastors. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar talk about how the focus of many churches has shifted from preaching the gospel to getting more people in the doors. This man-centered approach leads churches to prioritize charisma over genuine spiritual leadership. The goal should be to live, preach, and be forgotten, magnifying the Lord rather than the individual. True pastoral leadership is about shepherding souls, not cultivating personal fame.One of the dangers of celebrity pastoralism is the gravitational pull such pastors create, drawing followers toward them rather than toward Christ. A meaningful relationship with a local pastor is crucial because your local pastor cares for your soul, while an online influencer may be more focused on views. The issue is not necessarily with well-followed pastors, but with our human tendency to idolize them. We turn them into prophets, forgetting that our closeness to God comes through Jesus. To avoid idolizing pastors, we must remember they are flawed, like all of us. Instead of placing them on pedestals, we should pray for them.When looking for a church, it is essential to examine the humility and Christ-centered focus of the leadership. Good leaders are concerned about the lost and should live with authenticity, treating others with love and respect. As Oscar shared, after witnessing two personal pastors disqualify themselves, he became more grateful for those who live authentically. We should gravitate toward our local pastors, observing how they live their lives and interact with others. Accountability is key, as pastors without it may feel isolated, fearing they have no one to turn to when they struggle. The fall of a pastor often begins when they lose accountability, surround themselves with yes-men, or stop seeking God wholeheartedly. If a pastor finds themselves entangled in sin, they should first turn to their spouse and open up to their leadership team. Holding onto celebrity power will only lead to further downfall. God, who provides in pastorship, will continue to provide outside of it. Righteousness matters more than maintaining a position.For soul care, pastors must have fellowship with others in ministry and maintain a transparent devotional life. A straying pastor often lacks this connection with God. Pastors, like all of us, are placed in positions by God’s grace alone, and the church is not about one individual. It is a body, where Christ is the head, providing the perfect example of true servant leadership.Send us a text Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Discover the transformative journey of a missionary who transitioned from indifference to passionately engaging with Muslims. The discussion covers the misconception of biblical corruption, emphasizing the Quran's positive references to the Bible. Explore the stark differences between the works-based salvation of Islam and the grace offered in Christianity. Personal anecdotes illustrate the challenges and opportunities in sharing God's love. Finally, strategies for meaningful dialogue and understanding between faiths are highlighted, fostering compassionate outreach.

Have you ever questioned the wisdom of following your heart? We venture into this profound inquiry, contrasting the cultural encouragement from figures like Steve Jobs and Oprah Winfrey with the cautionary tales from biblical teachings in Galatians and Romans. The discussion begins with a personal story of a spontaneous act of kindness during a flight from Ecuador, illustrating life's unpredictability and the spiritual battles we face daily. This episode invites you to reflect on the tension between fleshly desires and godly wisdom, drawing parallels to a soldier's vigilance required in life's battles.As we navigate through the complexities of human nature, the mantra of following one's heart is scrutinized. We share stories and experiences that challenge this notion, highlighting the potential for self-justification of sinful behavior. The conversation delves into the struggle of sharing the gospel with those who believe in their own self-righteousness and the pervasive belief in personal goodness despite evident transgressions. Through personal anecdotes, we emphasize the necessity of a heavenly perspective and a higher moral standard, urging listeners to reconsider the inherent goodness of the heart.The episode also addresses the modern existential crisis brought on by society's shift toward self-reliance and self-discovery. We explore the paradox of hedonism, where the pursuit of self-pleasure often leads to greater unhappiness. The importance of acknowledging our sinful nature is underscored, using theological insights and cultural references as a guide. By drawing parallels between contemporary society and the days of Noah, listeners are encouraged to confront their sins and recognize their need for a savior. Through scripture and insightful reflections, this episode promises a journey of self-awareness and spiritual awakening, challenging your perspective and inspiring change.Send us a text Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Singleness and marriage are both gifts from God, each offering unique opportunities. Ray has desired marriage ever since he was a young child and E.Z. always dreamed of marriage and kids, while Oscar was perfectly content to stay single for the rest of his life. Mark, on the other hand, saw his singleness as an opportunity to pursue his devotion to the Lord. Singleness isn't about waiting patiently for marriage; it's a gift from God to be used for His purpose. One challenge singles face comes from within the church, where there can be an overemphasis on marriage, leaving singles feeling sidelined. Yet singleness is meant to testify that Jesus is enough. When you're single, your focus can be fully on the kingdom of God, without the added concerns that come with marriage and family life.Jesus, the most complete person who ever lived, was single. If you're single, use this time wisely. Seek the Lord and serve Him. Marriage is good, but there are opportunities in singleness you won't have when you're married. For example, John Wesley, a great Christian leader, remained single until he was 48. Statistically, even those who are married may find themselves single again due to death or divorce. If that happens, the same principles apply—don’t waste your singleness.It’s better to remain single than to marry someone who hinders your ability to serve the Lord. Singleness is not a curse; it allows you to be wholly devoted to God. Mark reflects on what he would do differently if he could return to his single years: study the Bible, seek mentorship, and serve actively in the church. Many women, driven by desperation, rush into marriages they later regret, often ending up with a spouse who doesn’t share their faith. Marriage to someone who doesn’t love the Lord can be a constant struggle. Therefore, single adults should stay active in their church communities and find ways to serve.Being single allows you to focus completely on God, and you can utilize your time in ways that will be more difficult once you're married. Ask yourself how you can serve God now, and don’t waste this season. Christ must be your everything, or you’ll create an idol out of marriage or your future spouse. Marriage isn’t a guarantee of happiness, and your spouse won’t save you from loneliness. If you put your happiness on another person, you risk turning them into a functional savior.When you understand singleness as a gift, you'll better appreciate marriage when it comes. Be encouraged—whether single or married, there is fullness for you in the Lord. True fulfillment can only be found in Him.Send us a text Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

God and hate are rarely associated together, yet understanding God’s nature reveals that He hates what opposes His love. God is a jealous God who desires our devotion. Sin, in many ways, represents hate because it separates us from Him. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar talk through Proverbs 6:16-19 which details what God hates, serving as a guide for what we should avoid. Sin is deadly serious, and though it leads to death, God extends mercy to those in Christ.The first thing listed that God hates is a proud face. Pride, the root of the first temptation, places us at the center of our own story. It is particularly visible in environments like sports, where praise and accolades can lead to arrogance. Yet, pride doesn’t require a platform — anytime we see ourselves as the central figure, we edge into pride. True humility is recognizing that it’s Christ’s story, and we are privileged to be part of it. Next, God hates a lying tongue. Truth is vital because God embodies honesty. Lying defames God’s image and erodes our relationship with Him. In today’s world, lying is often normalized, but it’s first and foremost a sin against God. Lying is a shortcut, often motivated by the love of money, but God calls us to integrity, and immersing ourselves in His Word keeps us from deception.When considering hands that shed innocent blood, abortion comes to mind. Millions of innocent lives are lost, yet God values life. We must stand against the destruction of life, recognizing that life is God’s gift. Abel’s blood cried out for justice, but Christ’s blood cried out for mercy, offering us salvation. God also hates a heart that devises wicked plans. Every one of us has devised evil at some point, but a new heart in Christ changes that. Premeditating sin is dangerous. Instead, God calls us to align our plans with His will. Similarly, He hates feet that are swift to run to evil. Sin is enticing, but we are to run from it, pursuing sanctification. Sin is always near, but with the power of the Spirit, we can flee from it.Lastly, God hates one who sows discord among brothers. Unity within the church is precious, and causing division is detestable to God. We should strive to foster peace and unity, addressing gossip or negativity by creating positive environments. This passage is a stark reminder of God’s hatred for sin and His call for us to live in a way that honors Him. Through Christ, we have the power to turn from these things and live in righteousness, united as believers.Send us a text Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

The podcast dives into the perils of arrogance, using King Nebuchadnezzar as a cautionary tale. It reveals the often-blurred line between confidence and arrogance, urging listeners to acknowledge their dependence on God. Humorous tales contrast with serious discussions on pride, self-examination, and the need for humility. Personal anecdotes illustrate how aging can temper youthful arrogance. The importance of community and accountability is emphasized, alongside a new streaming platform filled with faith-based content.

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar start this conversation by talking about Luke 7:34 and how it those mocking Jesus called Him a friend of sinners as an insult. Yet, as believers, we know this to be a blessing. Jesus being a friend of sinners is central to our hope—if He wasn’t, we would be doomed. There is a blindness in sin that leads people to view themselves through their own standard, not God’s. Some resist confessing their sin, but Jesus calls us to come as we are, not try to fix ourselves first.A true friend of sinners pleads with the lost to be right with God. While people speak of Jesus' love, that doesn’t mean He ignored sin. He came with compassion, yet without compromising truth. No one can out-sin the grace of God. However, there is a lack of balance when we help others without sharing the gospel. Ministries often experience drift away from their original mission when they lose sight of this truth. The Greek word *philos* means a dear friend, and that’s what Jesus was—even to tax collectors and Pharisees. Though He was compassionate, He never compromised. Jesus’ friendship to sinners, like Zacchaeus, wasn’t approval of their sin but a call to repentance.We need to emulate Christ’s example as we engage the world. In Mark 6, Jesus taught and fed a multitude, combining good works with the gospel. We must do both. It’s easy to drift to the extremes of either isolating ourselves from the world or over compromising to fit in. Jesus showed us how to engage with the world without compromising our beliefs. He was a friend of sinners but not of sin. The story of the rich young ruler in Mark 10 shows that even when people walk away, we must still give them the truth in love.The guys talk about love as action—it costs us time, talent, and treasure. There’s a difference between being a friend of sinners and being a friend of the world. Relationships with non-believers are not dangerous if approached with purpose. Being around non-believers gives us the opportunity to share the gospel, and friendships with believers allow us to grow together in faith. We should always be rich in good works, yet maintain a tension when interacting with the fallen world. If we are not bothered by their lost state, we should check our hearts. As believers, we were once dead in our sins, which should stir a desire in us to reach the lost. Ignorance of Scripture may lead some to falsely believe Jesus is their friend, but without repentance, they will face God's judgment. This truth must drive our mission to faithfully proclaim the gospel.Send us a text Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

God created men and women with equal value and early Christianity elevated women in a time when women were oppressed. Misusing scripture to dominate or oppress women is a sin, and believers are called to submit to one another out of love for Christ.Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar start this conversation by highlighting an important biblical truth: God created both men and women in His image, giving them equal value. While some who claim Christianity have oppressed women, scripture itself uplifts women. Jesus brought women from the margins to Himself, and throughout the Bible, women are honored, both in the Old and New Testament. Christianity was a driving force in elevating women’s equality.The Bible teaches that men and women are co-laborers, equal before God; however, many focus on verses instructing wives to submit to their husbands, missing the broader command to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Submission in marriage, according to scripture, is about mutual care and respect. Husbands are called to sacrificially love their wives, just as Christ loved the church. This does not mean women are lesser. They are helpmates, not subordinates. A true biblical marriage involves mutual support, where men and women complement each other, serving their God-given roles.Christianity has historically elevated women, with Jesus' resurrection being first witnessed by women. While men and women are biologically different, this does not diminish their spiritual or personal equality. The Bible’s leadership structure often sparks controversy, particularly regarding the role of women in the church. Scripture designates men as the heads of households and leaders of congregations, not because women are inferior, but because of God’s commands that bring harmony when followed. Women are called to teach and lead within appropriate contexts  while men are called to lay down their lives for their wives in love and service. This structure, when followed with love and respect, reflects the unity and harmony intended by God. It calls for a humility that recognizes all people are made in God's image, deserving of dignity and care.The harmony that arises when men and women embrace their God-given roles is a beautiful picture of God’s design. Misinterpreting scripture to dominate or oppress women is a serious sin against God’s image. Men must treat women with gentleness and respect, understanding that before they are wives, daughters, or mothers, they are first and foremost God’s daughters If men have gone astray in this regard, they are called to repent and realign with God’s design, honoring the women in their lives as co-heirs of God’Send us a text Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Critics of Christianity often point to its many denominations to disprove it, wondering how Christianity can be true if there is division within it; however, these divisions arise from differences in secondary issues, not core beliefs. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar dive into how denominations represent different facets of the same faith, unified under Jesus Christ. Some groups are labeled as denominations but fall outside orthodoxy, or true teaching, but this is an exception. Ray believes denominations exist because no two people agree on everything. Yet the church's foundation is the Lord, who looks at the believer's heart. A genuine Christian is known by their separation from sin and their focus on Christ. The church isn’t a building but the people Jesus ransomed with His blood are. Our gatherings should be marked by reverence. The church is a body of believers who regularly gather, take communion, and proclaim the gospel. It’s not an amorphous institution but a community united in Christ's mission.While Christians may belong to different denominations, they are united by their shared faith. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ. The beauty of the church is its universality. In Jesus' time, the idea of the gospel spreading to Gentiles was radical, and throughout history, denominations formed under God's sovereignty. Oscar gives a brief summary of church history from the time of Jesus’ resurrection to present day. Understanding church history helps us respect why different denominations arose and the reasons for divisions.Christians may disagree on topics like baptism, church government, or spiritual gifts, but they are united in the mission to proclaim the gospel. Essential doctrines—such as the virgin birth, the Trinity, salvation by grace through faith, and Jesus' death and resurrection—define Christianity and distinguish true believers. Secondary issues, such as the inerrancy of Scripture or justification by faith, don’t determine salvation. Non-essential matters, like worship style or eschatology, offer room for disagreement without breaking unity.When searching for a church, it's essential to start with their statement of faith. You may not agree on everything, but a thorough statement reveals their beliefs. Prioritize a church that emphasizes evangelism and examine the leadership structure and ensure there’s accountability. A local and available church fosters community, even when members disagree on secondary issues. Ultimately, we should receive one another under Christ’s and remain united in our shared faith.Send us a text Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

The New Apostolic Reformation is a movement that is leading people astray. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss how this movement emphasizes personal experiences over scripture, mysticism over doctrine, and elevates modern-day apostles above the Bible. The movement’s founder believed the local church should be under the authority of apostles rather than God's Word. However, the era of apostles has passed, and constantly seeking after signs misleads believers. The NAR’s emphasis on miracles and healing often lures immature Christians away from the core message of the gospel.The NAR promotes cultural dominance, contradicting Jesus' teachings of humility and sacrifice. Jesus chose the cross over earthly power, calling His followers to do the same. While Christians should influence society, this influence must come through service and humility, not through seeking power. The NAR’s emphasis on dominance distorts the gospel and leads believers away from Christ. The NAR gained significant influence in politics and they blurred the lines between God's kingdom and human governments, adding confusion to the church’s role in society. This blending of faith with political power undermines the gospel’s focus on Christ alone.Believers are often drawn to the NAR because of its promises of miracles and personal power. The allure controlling one’s destiny is enticing, but it leads to false teachings that center on human desires rather than God’s truth. False apostles attract crowds by appearing close to God, yet their message is man-centered. This drift from the gospel prioritizes personal gain and worldly influence over spiritual truth. This creates opportunities for false conversions by promoting a watered-down gospel that lacks a call for repentance. Believers must be discerning, ensuring their leaders emphasize Scripture over personal experience and that their focus remains on the Bible. If a church prioritizes emotions and experiences over God's Word, it reflects unhealthy doctrine.Ultimately, the NAR’s focus on power and influence leads believers away from the gospel. Its emphasis on experiences leaves many feeling inadequate when they don’t manifest spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues, contradicting the promises of the Holy Spirit. Rather than seeking authority through personal power, believers should repent and return to the authority of Scripture, trusting God’s Word as their guide.Send us a text Thanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro