Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Life Beyond the Summit -- A Faith Journey Podcast for Men
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| A Great Awakening -- A Foundation of Faith -- S4E31 -- 4-18-26 | 18 avr. 2026 | 00:06:51 | |
This year, we celebrate our 250 year of Independence and the establishment by our founding fathers as "One Nation, Under God, Indivisable, with Liberty and Justice for All." Today, we do not seem to embrace our nations founding principles or convictions -- We were first and foremost a nation professing to be "one" under the rulership and direction of God! We trusted in God's divine nature with reverence, adoration, and respect. We can return to that place!! Proverbs 3:5-6 reads "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge and summit to Him, and He will make your paths straight!! | |||
| Resurrection Day -- Life Lived to the Full -- S4E30 -- 4-05-26 | 06 avr. 2026 | 00:10:07 | |
This day, Easter, some 2000 years ago would change the world forever! A life offered as a ransom for a debt beyond man's ability to repay. Jesus took on our debt, the burden of our sin, self pride, and self will. Man broke his relationship with God in a way that only forgiveness could repair. Jesus became our ransom so that we could be restored! Seek Him and discover forgiveness and restoration!!! Romans 8:6-15 tells us that "the mind set on the spirit is life and peace....and we cry out to Him Abba Father." Simply invite Him into your life today!!! | |||
| A Look at Season 5 Soon Coming -- Loving God from the Heart -- 2-08-26 | 08 févr. 2026 | 00:04:10 | |
Season 5 to bring an examination of what it looks like to live a fully devoted life to Jesus Christ! | |||
| Discipleship -- Bridging the Gap -- Pastor Pat Wilcox -- S4E29 -- 1-23-26 | 24 janv. 2026 | 00:56:52 | |
Speaking of the most important commandment, Jesus said, "Love the Lord your God with all your Heart, Soul, and Strength and Love your neighbor as yourself." What is a disciple but a fully devoted follower, one who Loves the Lord with all their Heart, Soul, and Strength. In one of final commands to the twelve "disciples," he commissioned them to "Go into all the world and make disciples. One this episode Pat and I address what is means and how it looks to become a fully devoted follower, as well as discuss the birthing of a new ministry call "Bridging the Gap" Men's Ministry. | |||
| A Christmas Greeting -- S4E28 -- 12-25-25 | 25 déc. 2025 | 00:10:46 | |
A reflection on the Goodness and Grace that God has offerred to humanity, to you, to me, to all whom call upon His name! | |||
| Pastor Brandon Hammonds -- Samson's Surrender -- Are We Willing to Surrender -- S4E27 -- 12-18-25 | 19 déc. 2025 | 00:47:29 | |
Pastor Brandon Hammonds and I discuss Samson's challenges and how we struggle as he did, but that the key to freedom is surrender and walking in faithfulness to Him!! Listen enjoy hearing from Brandon! | |||
| A Message titled "Samson" -- Presented by Pastor Brandon Hammonds -- S4E26 -- 12-18-24 | 11 déc. 2025 | 00:45:52 | |
Samson was chosen by God to be a Judge, but falling prey to the weaknesses of impulsivity and pride, Samson led a storied life. What lessons are there in this message that we too can learn from? Are we Samson too? | |||
| Pastor Pat Wilcox -- Are We Teachable -- S4E25 -- 12-04-25 | 05 déc. 2025 | 00:40:35 | |
Are we teachable, coachable, willing to pursue His purpose, plan, and will for your life? The Bible reminds us that He never leaves or forsakes us. If we feel distance, why things do not seem to work for us, is it not on us? When we feel distance and disconnected is it because we are not in the game, not teachable, not coachable? Are we pursuing Him for the right reasons? Is he working on us, even in the shadows? Yes, but it is our willingness to pursue Him that allows us to experience all of Him. Matt 4:4, reminds us that we do not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God!!!! | |||
| Happy Thanksgiving -- Reflections on the Season -- S4E24 -- 11-27-25 | 27 nov. 2025 | 00:09:49 | |
Thanksgiving -- The Gateway to the Holiday Season -- a time of reflection, celebration, family gatherings, much to be thankful for. While these are important, at the core there is so much more.... who we are and what is it we really live for? Psalm 90:14 reads, "satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sign for joy and be glad all our days"... and Psalm 73:25-26 states "whom have I in heaven by you? and earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and may heart may fail but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." | |||
| Pastor Pat Wilcox -- The Significance of Community -- S4E23 -- 11-14-25 | 14 nov. 2025 | 00:50:28 | |
With growing advancements in technology and social media, more of the "Faithful" are staying home, preferring the convenience of the coach or recliner to that of "in person" church community worship and fellowship. In this podcast the explore the topic and discuss the value of getting back "into" church. | |||
| Pastor Pat Wilcox -- Living a Gospel Centered Life -- S4E22 -- 10-30-25 | 31 oct. 2025 | 00:33:52 | |
Pat defines "The Gap" as the difference between our knowledge of God word and it's impact on our life experience. In this episode, Pat identifies four practical steps to proactively implementing God's word in our lives. | |||
| Be Still and Know I am God -- Psalm 46 -- S4E21 -- 10-23-25 | 23 oct. 2025 | 00:19:38 | |
Psalm 46 reminds of that God is both our refuge and our strength, he is ever present, and in Matthew 28:20 Jesus promised to be with us always, even to the end of the age. Life is full of challenge, change, and at times disappointment. We are called to reflect on the truth and allow it to bring renewal and restoration to both our soul and spirit. We are called to "be still and know that I (He) is God." | |||
| "Last Full Measure of Devotion" -- S4E20 -- 10-09-25 | 09 oct. 2025 | 00:26:40 | |
These were the words penned by Abraham Lincoln and spoken during the Gettysburg Adress. These words were used to describe the soldiers who died for the Union during the American Civil War. These words defined the "total giving of oneself to a cause, inspiring others to continue that cause and uphold the principles for which the sacrifices were made." As Christ followers, we are instructed to take up our cross! In Matthew 16:24, Jesus stated, "If anyone would come after me, le him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." Am I willing? Are you willing? Is the Body of Christ willing? | |||
| Pastor Pat Wilcox -- Closing the Gap -- Dying to Self -- S4E19 -- 10-02-25 | 02 oct. 2025 | 00:47:45 | |
What is the Gap? It could be the difference between what we say we believe and how we live our lives. One Pastor puts it this way "My goal in life is to close the gap between who I am now vs the I am raised with Christ." Let's consider the cost of this closure!!! | |||
| Charlie Kirk -- A Reflection on His Faith -- S4E18 -- 9-25-25 | 25 sept. 2025 | 00:27:00 | |
Charlie wanted to be remembered for the most important expression of his life -- His Faith in Jesus Christ and Courage to Profess it! He loved the "Truth," and knew that ultimately, God's word is what sets us free! He pursued this with passion and conviction. Can we do the same? | |||
| Returning Pastor Pat Wilcox -- The Discipleship Gap -- S4E17 -- 9-18-25 | 18 sept. 2025 | 00:59:21 | |
What is the Discipleship Gap? It is the gap between what we say we believe and how we actually live our lives. Let's talk about it! Are we fully devoted and do we live the life He calls us to live? This is an encouraging look at where we are. | |||
| A Tribute to Charlie Kirk -- A Man After God's Heart -- 9-11-25 | 11 sept. 2025 | 00:05:35 | |
Charlie was a fearless purveyor of God's word and truth! He was unapologetic for his faith and knew the risk delivering truth represented and yet he did not shy from speaking his convictions, all of which were formed through the heart of his faith in Jesus Christ. Let us boldly stand for the truth, for faith, for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ .... Having done all to stand, stand! -- Eph 6:13-18 | |||
| Pastor Pat Wilcox speaks to Discipleship and Family Ministry -- S4E16 | 10 sept. 2025 | 00:59:31 | |
Pat is on the Pastor staff of Dardene Presbyterian Church in Dardene Praire, MO. He has a heart to see people discover the virtues of "Christ In you" and is responsible for family development from birth, the formation of family, and beyond. He is also the acting Director of Youth Ministries. Pat is dynamic, enthusiastic, and full of life and a love for the Lord. Listen as he encourages us in our faith and life in Christ! | |||
| Terry Estes -- the Birthing of Global Compassion -- S4E15 -- 8-28-25 | 28 août 2025 | 01:06:02 | |
If there is one word to describe Terry, it is Hope. At the age of 15, Terry's world changed. The marriage of his parents collapsed and Terry found himself managing three younger siblings, the youngest a year old. Terry found himself helpless and hopeless, even wondering why he was born. In a moment of desparation, Terry played a Billy Graham LP his mother had received in the mail. At the close of one of the messages, Billy Graham called for those needing Christ to ask Jesus into their heart. Terry knealed in the living room of his family home and prayed .... he was never again the same! Today, Terry's Hope in Christ continues to mold and shape him. He attributes Ministry to Men in helping him in his walk with Jesus and the founding of Global Compassion Ministries, Kids Against Hunger, and Hands of Faith -- ALL a testament to God's Glory!!!! | |||
| Tim Dorch with Cru STL speaks on Discipleship -- S4E14 -- 8-21-25 | 21 août 2025 | 00:54:27 | |
In His final instruction to the Disciples Jesus spoke these words -- "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me, therefore, go into all the world and make disciples..." In this podcast we explore the challenges man has met with surrender and submission, both of which require dying to self. God wants all of us as His followers and even suggest that luke warm is not enough, choose to be either "Hot" or "Cold!" He will not tolerate luke warm and says this position will cause the "spewing" of those whom are "luke warm," from His mouth! God wants all of us or none of us! We must choose! | |||
| Karl Leiber -- God's Calling to Go -- S4E13 -- Part 2 -- 8-14-25 | 14 août 2025 | 01:04:44 | |
In Part 1 of Karl's interview we learned of Karl's discovery of Christ and Testimony of God's Grace! In this podcast, we learn about the ministry birthed in Karl Leiber, Terry Estes, and Jerry Lance -- "Kid's Against Hunger" and "Global Compassion." | |||
| Karl Leiber -- From Desparation to the Discovery of God's Grace -- S4E12 -- Part 1 -- 8-07-25 | 07 août 2025 | 01:14:29 | |
Karl Leiber is an ordinary man, just like you and I. Raised under an authoritative father, Karl was never good enough and found himself in despair. Turning to drugs and alcohol only reinforced his sense of worthlessness.... But God... PTL. Karl was introduced to Jesus in March of 1980 and his life was turned around, in an extraordinary way!!! | |||
| Vic Miller's Faith Challenge -- "The Unexpected" -- S4E11 -- 7-31-25 | 31 juil. 2025 | 00:51:01 | |
Life was good, all was working well, ministry was growing, lives impacted and then the sudden uncertainty of "The Unexpected." Vic hit a wall! Vic's high speed life came to a screeching halt, as he moved to his knees and prayed! Vic shares the lessons he has learned about God's comfort and peace through during periods of uncertainty. | |||
| Nick Parker Shares His Vision for Discipleship -- S4E10 -- 7-24-25 | 24 juil. 2025 | 00:57:09 | |
Previously a Small Groups Pastor at several churches, Nick is on a quest to fulfill Jesus' call and command, "the Great Commission", to go into all the world and make Disciples! He has engaged the Navigators Ministry and shares his heart for seeing men explore all that God has intended for them! | |||
| "Moments" in Him -- S4E9 -- 7-17-25 | 17 juil. 2025 | 00:11:53 | |
Moments truly are fleeting. In coastal towns everywhere, people gather daily to celebrate the setting sun. A moment of distraction and the beauty of the setting sun is lost. Do prioritize moments for the value they have. Do we seize them for His Glory? | |||
| Pastor Nick Parker asks "Is God Calling You" -- S4E8 -- 7-03-25 | 03 juil. 2025 | 00:56:23 | |
Nick came to ministry at the age of 28, with a sense of calling to reach men with an emphasis on being "All In" and fully devoted! His heart is in seeing men discover freedom through engaging Matthew 28:18-20 and living as Jesus lived, fully devoted to experiencing all that God has for each of those calling Jesus Lord! | |||
| Experiencing the Abundant Life -- Part 2 -- S4E7 -- 6-26-25 | 26 juin 2025 | 01:07:49 | |
In this podcast we continue our conversation with Justin Sparks, Missouri State House of Representative for the Republican party, father of 7, and Director of Men's Ministry at Grace Church St. Louis. Justin believes in living in an Extraordinary way, simply because we serve the Alpha and Omega -- the one who invites us to experience Eternal Life. | |||
| Experiencing the Abundant Life -- Part 1 -- S4E6 -- 6-7-25 | 11 juin 2025 | 01:01:44 | |
Meet Justin Sparks -- Christ Follower, Husband to Mandy, father to their 7 children, Volunteer Director of Men's Ministry Grace Church St. Louis, Former St. Louis County Police Officer, SWAT officer, Special Response Unit Sargeant, currently a second term Missouri District 110 Republican House Representative, and a friend to all he meets. By any measure, Justin is an extraordinary man of faith.... but can that be said of all believers, can the joy that abides in Justin be experienced by all believers. Find out in through this podcast!!! | |||
| Faith and the Family -- Part 4 -- S4E5 -- 5-28-25 | 30 mai 2025 | 00:57:19 | |
In this, the final podcast in this series, we discuss a man's role as husband and father in creating an environment rich in faith and its impact on the family, church, and community at large. Our guest is returning Pastor Phil Eppard, Groups Pastor, Grace Church STL. | |||
| Faith and the Family -- Part 3 -- S4E4 -- 5-23-25 | 23 mai 2025 | 01:00:54 | |
In this episode, Pastor and Biblical Counselor Marty Haas returns to continue a discussion about the impact of the eroding family on faith, church attendance, and the spiritual condition of our country. | |||
| Faith and the Family -- Part 2 -- S4E3 | 08 mai 2025 | 00:57:01 | |
In this episode, hear from Pastor and Biblical Counselor Marty Haas, as we continue a discussion about Faith and the Family! Marty is in his 38th year as a family, marriage, and individual counselor at Grace Church St. Louis. | |||
| Faith and the Family -- Part 1 -- S4E2 -- 4-23-25 | 24 avr. 2025 | 00:54:13 | |
How Faith is impacted by the changing landscape of the family unit -- An interview with Community Groups Pastor Phil Eppard, Grace Church St. Louis. This is a two part series. | |||
| New Season -- An Interview with M2M Board Member Dennis Boenker -- S4E1 -- 4-10-25 | 24 avr. 2025 | 00:43:08 | |
Life Beyond the Summit is proud to be sponsored by Ministry to Men St. Charles, Missouri. | |||
| Being the Best Bad Guy -- S3E17 -- 7-19-23 | 20 juil. 2023 | 00:46:43 | |
The lines have been blurred, what was true yesterday is no longer. Standing on the side of what is right, has been redefined -- as either intolerant, incentive or even wrong. On every level, confusion seems to abound. Absolutes have become vague and now considered extreme. No area of life seems to be off limits. Even the church, once considered sacred, is now experiencing persecution, false accusation, and sanction. If I am a considered intolerant for the cause of Christ, so be it, let the church (you and I) be the Best Bad Guy for Jesus we can be. The bible reminds us that He (God) is the same yesterday, today, and forever! In James 1:17, it is written "Every good and perfect gift comes down from the father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." Where do we stand? Where am we complicit? Are we willing to STAND, to draw the line? In Ephesians 6:13, Paul challenged Christ followers this way – “Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
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| Summer Break -- We are Back | 13 juil. 2023 | 00:48:09 | |
Every one needs a retreat, a break, a breather, a chance to relax and reflect! Andrew and I reflect on our time off, where we are in our faith and our circumstances. Life is challenging even in its best moments. Expectations both fulfilled and unfulfilled leave us longing for more! But leaning into the Lord brings refreshment and the assurance of HOPE! Listen and be encouraged that God is faithful and will never leave us nor forsake us! Paul wrote these words in Romans 8:38-39 -- "For I am convinced..." that nothing can separate us from the Love of God!!! (paraphrased) Selah | |||
| Persecution of the Faithful -- S3E16 -- 5-22-23 | 24 mai 2023 | 00:47:23 | |
In Matthew 5:10-13, Jesus speaks to the persecution of the Faithful, His followers, those whom have accepted him wholeheartedly, saying those persecuted will enjoy a great reward. There are many causes that one may take up that may result in some level of persecution. But NONE engage the meaning of life itself, NONE directly engage the source and essence of life. NONE address Jesus Christ as the son of God, our need for a Redeemer, or the our acceptance of Him in order to be reconciled to back to God. Scripture speaks to “having no greater love for another, that you would lay your life down for a friend.” We show understanding, empathy, and love for others, and most importantly Love for God, when we accept persecution from the world for the cause of winning them to Jesus, through willing persecution. If you are a Christ follower, are you willing to accept persecution, even as He did for your sake, and the sake of all? If you are not, consider what Jesus did all of Humanity (John 3:16)!
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| Blessed are the Peacemakers -- S3E15 | 16 mai 2023 | 00:47:47 | |
In Matthew 5:9, Jesus addresses “peacemakers” saying that they will be called “sons of God.” This is the message of the cross to reconcile man to God. Jesus says those who are “peacemakers” shall be called “sons of God.” Jesus’ very nature was to create peace between God and man. God is Peace, when we walk in the likeness of Him, we are called “sons of God.” We are called to bring the message of peace making reconciliation to others – drawing others to the Cross and a relationship with God. Jesus thought and did as the father did and he is calling us to the same.
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| The State of the Church -- A Conversation with Brandon Hammonds, PhD -- Pastor of Discipleship and Theology -- Grace Church STL -- S3E14 -- 5-02-23 | 03 mai 2023 | 00:49:58 | |
Many wrestle with whether Biblical truth can be trusted and is reliable. Do we believe some and not all of Biblical text? Is the Bible truly inspired by God or simply mythology? The entirety of Bible accuracy and it’s power rests in the resurrection. Was Jesus truly resurrected? “We are to walk out the values and the morals that Jesus set before us – specifically, the Sermon on the Mount. We are to simultaneously proclaim the truth of the coming kingdom -- all of this in the face of an onslaught of a culture today, that is waging war against the Christianity… Today’s culture will do all that it can to dismantle everything we are called to proclaim…” – Brandon Hammonds, PhD As Christians we are called to be “ALL IN.” Not through mental assent and Human understanding but by and through His word and knowing him personally (Prov 3:5-6 – Paraphrased)
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| Blessed are The Pure in Heart -- Part 2 -- S3E13 | 26 avr. 2023 | 00:47:18 | |
The heart is often thought of as the center, core, middle, or the most important part of something. Regarding the human heart, it is the hardest working muscle in the body, providing a continuance stream of life giving oxygen and the nutrients necessary to sustain life. Just as the human heart sustains the human body, the core of our Spiritual heart, when connected to the heart of God, produces in us the fruit of God’s Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and the ability to know God intimately – through His word (the Bible) and personal prayer. "Blessed are Pure in Heart, for they shall see God" (Matthew 5:8). If our hearts are not pure, how can we attain the Godliness we may wish to experience?
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| Blessed are the Pure in Heart -- S3E12 -- 4-18-23 | 19 avr. 2023 | 00:47:20 | |
In John 5:8, Jesus spoke “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” This is the first of the beatitudes that comes with the promise of SEEING God. Generally sin is defined as any form of self satisfaction, gratification, selfish desire, or immoral behavior. Living with a pure heart does not refer to immoral actions ONLY, but to EVERY thought that distracts us from a deep, intimate, committed, and transformative relationship with God. Ultimately, we should desire to know God, even as we are fully known by Him! While we do see “but a poor reflection now…. we should strive to know God even as we are known by God NOW (1 Cor 13:12, Paraphased). This is a PURE HEART! In Phillipians 3:12, Paul reminds us to “…press on to take hold of that which Christ took HOLD of me (you, mankind) Life is all about God!
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| Blessed are the Merciful -- S3E11 -- 4-04-23 | 05 avr. 2023 | 00:44:46 | |
When I think of the word “mercy,” I think of its application as being applied to significant injustices. In Matthew 5:7, Jesus stated “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” Mercy is the act of extending forgiveness or grace when a just response may be to do otherwise. A just and natural response would be to need out a judgment equal to or worse than the original offense. But Jesus speaks about a supernatural response to those who find themselves walking in judgement and outside the consideration of Mercy. John 5:7 comes with the promise that those who extend mercy will themselves receive mercy. Ultimately, Jesus extended the highest order of Mercy when “while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). In Christianity, sin is the act of turning our back on God, our creator and life sustainer. David wrote these words in Psalm 86:15 – “But though oh God, art a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving kindness and truth.” Jesus died in order that we might have life! Life abundant in Him. Receiving His mercy for us, allowing us to walk in and extend His mercy and grace to others. Seleh
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| Walking in Righteousness -- S3E10 | 22 mars 2023 | 00:46:59 | |
In Christian circles this word is familiar, though when asked for a specific answer to its meaning, most take pause. In the simplest way, it means “doing right.” We know we are made whole, complete, and “right” through the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He alone has taken the fallen nature of man and lifted us up, taken our sin and cleansed us, taken what was wrong and made it “right!” Jesus did for us what we could not do ourselves, he took on our brokenness, our shame, our sin, our guilt, and all else that separated us from the God. Through forgiveness He offered himself a ransom in exchange for the restoration of relationship between man and God. So we are made righteousness through Jesus Christ. In Matt 5:6, Jesus speaks of a continuing life of right living, and the ongoing pursuance of righteousness. One writer states it this way: “…God presents us with a serious challenge. Because (righteousness) is continuously needed, it establishes a demanding requirement. How much do we want goodness, the righteousness of God? Do we want as much as a starving man desires food or a parched man wants water?” “Most of us desire for God’s Kingdom and His righteousness, but it is, to our detriment, frequently nebulous rather than sharp” Let’s not be counted among those living out our faith by simply confession, but by the conviction of the Holy Spirit with a desire to “Let your light (of Righteousness before Him and Man) so shine that they will see our good works and glorify God who is in Heaven!!” (Matt 5:16, paraphrased in my own words) Let’s be challenged to live our of lives in such a way!!!! Reflecting the fruit of His Spirit and Righteousness of His Character and Image. Thank you Lord that “I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me, AND….the life I now live, I live by faith in the Son of God…” Think about it!!!!
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| They Shall Be Filled -- S3E9 | 15 mars 2023 | 00:26:25 | |
As we continue our discussion from Matthew the 5thchapter, in Verse 6, Jesus spoke these words – “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they will be filled.” Every living being has experienced hunger and thirst. On a physical level, without food or water we cannot survive and the need is on going and never ending. We depend on food and water for survival. But we also hunger and thirst after the things of this world to find satisfaction in a similar way. What is it that you may be seeking to find happiness, joy, or even peace? Jesus is saying that if you will seek Him and His Righteousness, you will be FILLED! Nothing brings greater satisfaction! FILLED with the FULNESS of knowing Jesus and His righteousness brings FREEDOM from ongoing “hunger and thirst” that will otherwise never be satisfied. In John 4:10-13, Jesus speaks to the Samaritan women’s natural thirst and tells her “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” To listen to this or other podcasts, click on the link below, go to anchor.fm/steve-crowdus or visit our website at lifebeyondthesummit.com. Our email is lifebeyondthesummit@gmail.com. We would love hear from you, how we can pray for you and help strengthen your faith through His Word!!! | |||
| Our Inheritance -- S3E8 | 08 mars 2023 | 00:43:34 | |
In Matthew 5:5, Jesus spoke – “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” “Meek” is not likely a word that would make a modern day list of virtues worthy of the inheritance of the earth, if such an inheritance were even possible. Though familiar with the word “Meek,” a look online brought this definition – timid, reserved, quiet, gentle, easily imposed upon, and/or submissive. From the worlds perspective, “Blessed” is more likely to include words like strong, courageous, disciplined, intelligent, bold, unafraid, outspoken, or revered. Yet this word “Meek” in third in succession behind “Pour in Spirt” and those who “Morn.” And then to suggest that these and other similar virtues will provide for an inheritance of the “earth” and “kingdom of heaven.” What the world values escapes the reasoning of Jesus, whose heart is to glorify His Father, and not that of man or man’s desire for worldly gain. In God’s economy, the “Meek” see themselves through the lens of faith, desiring to serve God and others, seeking the greater reward of relationship with God, through His Son, Jesus Christ! | |||
| Who is Rich in God's Kingdom -- S3E7 -- 2-28-23 | 01 mars 2023 | 00:48:38 | |
Most people define “Rich” in terms of wealth and financial prosperity in areas such as or the money, investments, property, and possessions. Often, we will refer to this level of wealth as living a “Blessed” life. We work hard, advance our intellect, reasoning, and human understanding for the causes of growth, gain, and accumulation of the comforts of life. How does the Bible define living a “Blessed” life? In Matthew 5:1-10, Jesus defined “Blessed” to include an entirely different approach to a definition of “Rich.” The “Blessed” life Jesus speaks of is not subject to rust or decay, produces full abundance in this life and an eternal inheritance beyond. To listen to this or other podcasts, click on the link below, go to anchor.fm/steve-crowdus or visit our website at lifebeyondthesummit.com. Our email is lifebeyondthesummit@gmail.com. | |||
| It is Written -- S3E6 | 15 févr. 2023 | 00:42:24 | |
God’s word is life changing. In Hebrews 4:12, the writer proclaims “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow and attitudes of the heart.” The Bible is the portal through which we enter into relationship with God, know and understand Him, and begin to understand His purpose for our own lives. God’s word comes alive, through faith, and faith itself a gift (Eph 2:8). God did not leave us to our own in these matters, but rather God provided a Helper, the Holy Spirit, in order to reveal the truth of his Gospel to mankind. Even Jesus himself, only did what his father in heaven instructed him to do. Matthew 4:1-4 shares the story of Jesus in the desert. Having gone without food for forty days and nights, Satan presumed on Jesus’ hunger when encouraging to turn a stone into bread. But, Jesus would not turn to his own need and means to find satisfaction, but rather referred back to God’s Word – “It is written: Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” So too our knowledge of God and his will and purpose for ours lives, come through knowing the God of His Word, the Bible, allowing it to transformed through “washing of the water of the Word.” | |||
| The Bible -- The Bread of Life -- S3E5 | 08 févr. 2023 | 00:41:30 | |
Unlike any other literary work, the Bible is unique in its ability to produce and give life to those who heed its call and redemptive power. The apostle Paul wrote these words in John 1, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, He was with God in the beginning. Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made. In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind! Inspired by God, written by the hand of man, it is unique in its power to give and sustain life for all who believe. It begins with belief, with trusting in Jesus, and accepting the free gift of salvation that His life and death offered us. Jesus re-established the relationship God originally intended when he created man in His own image and for his own pleasure, a relationship with Himself. A relationship that man severed for his own gain. The apostle Paul best stated the transformation that the life in Christ produces and its value to those who find it! His word is life to those who find it and health to the entire body (Psalm 4:22). Paul told the Philippians his message of salvation and life in Christ is a “safeguard for you.” He further said that whatever he found as gain in this life, he “considered loss for the sake of Christ.” Only in the Word of God do we find the promise of life, only the word of God produces life in full abundance, it is transformational and eternal!! His word is lamp unto our feet and light unto our path!!! John 6:35 said this of Himself -- "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” | |||
| The Power of God's Word -- S3E4 | 01 févr. 2023 | 00:48:23 | |
In the Biblical book of Revelation, the 12th chapter, 11th verse, the Apostle Paul wrote… “…they (followers of Christ), were saved by the blood of the lamb (Jesus death on the cross) and the word of our testimony.” So strong were those who believe that “they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” It is that same power, power written of by the Apostle Paul, prophetically, in A.D. 95, that transcends time and space and brings life to all who call upon his name! For some years, I found myself routinely befriending Christ followers -- not recognized at the onset, but discovered over time. The all exuded a peace, confidence, and a love for God's word, the Bible. Some told of their own personal journey to faith with great fanfare and others with quiet reflections, but in every case, it was their faith in Jesus Christ as well as the transformation that they had experienced (testimony), that was compelling! If this could be that real for others, perhaps it could be for me as well. On July 31, 1982, after years of contemplation, and the undeniable difference seen in the lives of others, I too became a Christ follower! I have never regretted it, even for a minute. My relationship with Christ and a love for God's word have tranformed me! This is the power of God’s word!.... To listen to this or other podcasts, click on the link below, go to anchor.fm/steve-crowdus or visit our website at lifebeyondthesummit.com. Our email is lifebeyondthesummit@gmail.com. | |||
| God's Faithfulness -- S3E3 | 25 janv. 2023 | 00:50:40 | |
“For the Lord is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting and His faithfulness to all generations” -- Psalm 100:5. Faithfulness -- the first thoughts that come to mind -- loyal, trustworthy, dependable, committed, true, honorable, and perhaps most assuredly, reliable. Faithfulness also suggest fidelity. Fidelity suggests purity in purpose and loyalty without compromise. In Romans 5:8, we are reminded that “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” and in 2 Cor. 5:21 Paul wrote -- “ He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” The faithfulness of God is unlike any other, for we have “all fallen short.” Roman 2:4 reminds us that “… it is His kindness that leads us to repentance.” Apart from Him we can do nothing, but because of Him, we walk in “… newness of life.” – Romans 6:4 Isaiah 43:1 reads – “…I have summoned you by name, you are mine.” Do we understand His great Love for us? Can we understand His faithfulness, and with “resolve” -- give Him ours? | |||
| The Power of God's Word -- S3E2 | 18 janv. 2023 | 00:48:47 | |
In our last episode we spoke about being “resolute” in pursuing a deeper walk with the Lord. Psalm 119:105 says, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Unlike any other book, God’s word produces life to those who attend to it! Proverbs 4:20-22, states “My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart, for they are life to those who find them and health to one's whole body.” In John 16:13-15 we read “…He (the Holy Spirit) will guide you into all truth…” Accepting Jesus as our savior is just the beginning, there is the promise of full abundance through a deep relationship with Him, and we have His word to discover who He is and how He wishes to speak to and through us! | |||