Do you want to know Jesus? Do you want to become like Him? Prayer is vital to that. In the episode, John explores Jesus' teaching about prayer in Matthew 6:5-8, the second example Jesus gives of doing righteous deeds to be noticed by others. He ends the episode by reflecting on the essence of prayer as seen in the passage.  You can deepen your walk with God by reading the Bible and praying consistently. Get a free reading plan here or take a free 15 minute mini-course here to help you get started.  Do you want to help support John’s podcast? Become a patron and support the show by clicking here. You'll get access to bonus material and help me create an audio commentary on the New Testament. As always, if you appreciate this teaching share freely - on Facebook, Instragram, Twitter, via email.  Connect with John on facebook and instagram

I'm sure you've been told that being generous is a good thing. But did you know it can be harmful to your spiritual health? According to Jesus, we can give in a such a way that it doesn't draw us closer to God and doesn't make us more like Jesus. We can give in such a way that it twists our soul. That's the topic in this episode of the Bible in Life.  As always, if you appreciate this teaching share freely - on facebook, instragram, twitter, via email.  Website: If you're not yet subscribed to receive updates from John, swing over to johnwhittaker.net and subscribe.  Patreon: Become a patron and support the show by clicking here. You'll get access to bonus material and help me create an audio commentary on the New Testament. And if you're not already, follow John on facebook and instagram

Looking good isn't bad. But when it comes to the following Jesus and becoming like him,"looking good" can be a significant barrier.  In this episode, John unpacks the next major section of the Sermon on the Mount (barriers to surpassing righteousness) and begins to explore the first barrier - keeping up religious appearances.  As always, if you appreciate this teaching share freely - on facebook, instragram, twitter, via email.  Website: If you're not yet subscribed to receive updates from John, swing over to johnwhittaker.net and subscribe.  Patreon: Become a patron and support the show by clicking here. You'll get access to bonus material and help me create an audio commentary on the New Testament. And if you're not already, follow John on facebook and instagram

God is love and invites us into a life of love ... a lif of love that's so rich, we are able to love anybody and everybody - including those who are against us.   This kind of love is the epitome of surpassing righteousness, so it's the culmination of Jesus' examples. In loving this way, we become like God who loves all people and does good to all people.  As always, if you appreciate this teaching share freely - on facebook, instragram, twitter, via email.  Website: If you're not yet subscribed to receive updates from John, swing over to johnwhittaker.net and subscribe.  Patreon: Become a patron and support the show by clicking here. You'll get access to bonus material and help me create an audio commentary on the New Testament. And if you're not already, follow John on facebook and instagram  

In this special bonus episode, John explores how to become the kind of person who is actively kind to people who aren't kind to you. This follows up episode 12 which looked at the meaning of Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:38-42. Jesus' teaching is so contrary to the usual human way of living and we can feel like no matter how hard we try we just can't do it.  Well that's because trying - even trying hard - won't cut it.  We need a wiser, more intentional approach than just trying to to be kind when someone treats us badly. We need to train and be prepared so that it's second nature to live this way. And in this bonus episode John reflects on some ways we can do just that. If you're not yet subscribed to receive updates from John, swing over to johnwhittaker.net and subscribe.  As always, if you appreciate this teaching share freely - on facebook, instragram, twitter, via email.  And if you're not already, follow John on facebook and instagram

Discover how to navigate life's challenges when faced with negativity from others. Learn about Jesus' revolutionary approach to mistreatment, emphasizing kindness over retaliation. The discussion highlights the importance of embodying generosity even towards those who have wronged you. Gain insights on cultivating compassion and how these teachings can transform your relationships. This perspective invites listeners to stand out in a world often defined by conflict.

Explore the vision of a world where words are bonds, reflecting a deeper integrity. Unpack Jesus' call for surpassing righteousness, where honesty reigns over mere laws. Discover the importance of genuine integrity and the critique of oaths in meaningful interactions. Embrace a life of sincerity that embodies love and care, fostering trust among people. Join the conversation on how we can begin to make this world a reality, one honest interaction at a time.

Divorce is a painful reality that has persisted through the ages. The conversation highlights Jesus' teachings from Matthew 5:31-32, revealing the emotional turmoil surrounding divorce. The insights emphasize the importance of faithfulness in marriage and the need for a shift in perspective. Instead of fostering guilt, the focus is on personal growth to maintain lifelong commitments. Through relatable stories and biblical wisdom, listeners are encouraged to understand and navigate the complexities of relationships.

Explore the impact of a sex-driven society on our lives. The conversation delves into the moral implications of adultery and lust, urging a deeper understanding of sexual purity. Discover the importance of inner transformation and accountability in combating lustful thoughts. The discussion highlights Jesus' wisdom, reminding us of the grace available on the journey towards holiness.

Explore the deeper meaning of righteousness as taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. Discover how true righteousness goes beyond just avoiding murder, delving into the heart of anger and contempt. Imagine a world where peace and patience replace hostility! The conversation emphasizes the potential for personal transformation and the possibility of living in harmony with others. Join in the vision for a more peaceful life, filled with grace and reconciliation.