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Focused on Christ
Focused on Christ
148 episodes
2 days ago
Focused on Christ is dedicated to exalting Christ and equipping the church. Hosted by Mike Crump and Dr. Nathan Smith, Focused on Christ looks at topics and issues facing the Christian church and filters them through the Word of God. As pastors, Mike and Nathan can help navigate theology, current events, and relational issues that crop up in and around the church in order that followers of Jesus are prepared for living the gospel life among the nations. New episodes drop every Tuesday morning on all podcasting platforms as well as YouTube and X.
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Focused on Christ is dedicated to exalting Christ and equipping the church. Hosted by Mike Crump and Dr. Nathan Smith, Focused on Christ looks at topics and issues facing the Christian church and filters them through the Word of God. As pastors, Mike and Nathan can help navigate theology, current events, and relational issues that crop up in and around the church in order that followers of Jesus are prepared for living the gospel life among the nations. New episodes drop every Tuesday morning on all podcasting platforms as well as YouTube and X.
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Christianity
Religion & Spirituality
Episodes (20/148)
Focused on Christ
Ep. 142: Jesus and the End Times

Jesus and the End Times: Separating Fact from Conspiracy | Focused on Christ Ep. 142


What goes through your mind when someone starts talking about the end times? For many, the conversation can quickly devolve into conspiracy theories and "newspaper theology". This episode addresses the nervousness and the fascination surrounding the return of Jesus, particularly after a recent viral "prophecy" led to disappointment for many.


Join hosts Mike Crump and Pastor Nathan Smith as they turn to the words of Jesus himself in Matthew 24 to understand the end of the age.


  • The Danger of False Prophecies: Why even Christ-loving people can get pulled into unbiblical end times excitement. We look at a recent example of a viral prophecy that predicted Jesus' return on a specific date.


  • The Context of Matthew 24: Jesus' conversation with his disciples begins with a strong declaration that the physical Temple, which they admired as a sign of the Kingdom, would be destroyed. Jesus warns them not to confuse the earthly with the heavenly kingdom.


  • Wars, Famines, and Earthquakes: Are we in the end times? Jesus says these are just the "beginning of the birth pains," and the primary purpose of his warnings is pastoral—to shape their hearts and hope.


  • The Abomination of Desolation: We unpack the meaning of this prophecy, rooted in Daniel, and explore the "near fulfillment" (like Antiochus Epiphanes and the destruction of Jerusalem) versus the "eventual fulfillment" that is yet to come.


  • Why the Son Doesn't Know the Hour: Addressing the complex question from Matthew 24:36. We explain how this is a statement about the Father's decreeing authority within the Trinity, not a limitation of Jesus' divine nature.


  • The Final Judgment: Looking ahead to Matthew 25:31-33, when the Son of Man returns in glory to separate the sheep from the goats—the ultimate final judgment.


  • The Church's End Times Mandate: Jesus gives these teachings so we are not deceived by false prophets and so we are not alarmed when the world is chaotic. We have final confidence in gospel victory—Jesus Christ emerges the victor.


Tune in to anchor your hope in Christ's return, not in fleeting conspiracy theories!


Focused on Christ is a ministry of Heritage Baptist Church, passionate about exalting Christ and equipping the church.



Host: Mike Crump Guest: Pastor Nathan Smith


Connect with us:Browse our library at focusedonchrist.com Follow us on social media


Next Week: We open up the mailbag and grill Nathan with listener questions!

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2 days ago
22 minutes 2 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 141: Jesus Curses the Fig Tree

Jesus Curses the Fig Tree | Focused on Christ Ep. 141

In this episode of Focused on Christ, Pastors Mike and Nathan unpack one of the most misunderstood moments in Jesus’ ministry — when He cursed the fig tree. Was Jesus simply angry or hangry, or is there a much deeper message hidden in this symbolic act?


Join us as we:

🌿 Explore the Old Testament roots of the fig tree as a symbol for Israel.

🏛️ Connect the cursing of the fig tree to the cleansing of the temple.

🙏 Discover what Jesus teaches about true faith, prayer, and forgiveness.

🔥 Unpack the parable of the fig tree in Luke 13 and its picture of God’s patience, judgment, and redemption.


This episode reminds us that fruitfulness reveals true life in Christ — and that real faith produces both love for God and forgiveness toward others.


Article on the Synoptic Problem: https://drbarrick.org/?p=103


📖 Scripture References:


Mark 11:12–25

Matthew 21:18–22

Luke 13:6–9

John 15


🎧 Listen and grow as we fix our hearts and minds on Christ, seeing His glory even in the smallest details of Scripture.


🔗 Connect with us:

Website: https://focusedonchrist.com


Podcast: Focused on Christ – available on all major platforms

Church: Heritage Baptist Church


#Jesus #BibleStudy #FocusedOnChrist #FigTree #Faith #Discipleship #Gospel #ChristianPodcast #HeritageBaptistChurch #Mark11

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1 week ago
19 minutes

Focused on Christ
Ep. 140: The Triumphal Entry

The Triumphal Entrance: Power, Servanthood, and the Scandal of Grace | Ep 140 - Focused on Christ

Join hosts Mike Crump and Pastor Nathan Smith as they dive into The Triumphal Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, a significant event traditionally associated with Passion Week.In this episode, they explore the dramatic context and contrast of this moment by first looking at the request of the mother of the sons of Zebedee in Matthew 20. The hosts discuss her self-seeking petition for her sons to sit at Jesus' right and left hand in his kingdom, which they likely understood as a political messiahship intended to overthrow Rome and restore the Davidic age.They break down Jesus' challenging response about drinking his cup, which the disciples initially understood as relational fellowship. Pastor Smith notes that this fellowship would later be understood to include sharing in Christ's suffering.The conversation then focuses on Jesus' teaching on true greatness:Serving others: Jesus contrasts the worldly rulers who "lord it over them" with the new standard for his followers—that the greatest must be a servant and the first must be a slave.The gold standard: Jesus sets himself up as the example, having "come not to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many".Humility is the path of godliness.The Triumphal Entry: Peace and ProphecyThe hosts then transition to the Triumphal Entry in Matthew 21, discussing the significance of the event and its symbolism.The Donkey: The act of Jesus riding on a donkey (or colt) symbolizes peace, contrasting with a horse, which was an instrument of war.Prophetic Image: Laying down cloaks and branches was a sign of great respect, an act traditionally reserved for a king. The movement of Jesus from the Mount of Olives down through the eastern gate and into the temple is seen as a foreshadowing of the glory of God returning to Jerusalem, as prophesied in Ezekiel.The Proclamation: The crowds shouted "Hosanna to the Son of David," proclaiming him to be the prophesied Messiah (though likely understood as a political figure, not God himself) and the prophet spoken of by Deuteronomy.Finally, they tackle the irony of the crowd's quick turn against Jesus during the crucifixion, noting that many were likely disappointed when he didn't bring the expected political revolution.The episode concludes by reconciling the dual nature of Christ—the glorious God deserving of all praise and the one who came to be a servant and die for sinners. This incredible contrast is termed the "scandal of grace," which should move believers to a joyful desire to serve others.

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2 weeks ago
22 minutes 9 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 139: Mary Anoints Jesus' Feet

Ep 139 - Mary Anoints Jesus’ Feet | Focused on Christ

Join hosts Mike Crump and Pastor Nathan Smith as they continue their study on the life of Jesus, focusing specifically on Mary anointing Jesus’ feet with expensive oil in John 12.

In this episode, they explore the significance of this powerful act of worship and the deep theological meaning behind it:

  • The Significance of Oil: Discover the consecrating and precious importance of oil throughout the Scriptures, used to set apart something or someone as sacred, like a high priest or a king.

  • A Sacrificial Act: Unpack the profound humility and value for Christ demonstrated by Mary, who used her most precious possession—expensive nard ointment and her own hair (an image of a woman's glory)—to anoint the lowest part of his body.

  • The Context of Passover: Learn how this event, which happens just six days before Christ's death, ties into the central Jewish celebration of deliverance from death by sacrifice.

  • Judas’s Hypocrisy: Examine Judas Iscariot's criticism of the "wasteful" act, which Jesus sternly rebukes, exposing the disciple's own selfish, thieving heart.

  • Preparing for Burial: Hear Jesus's main point: Mary's act was a beautiful thing and a symbolic gesture of preparing him for his burial and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.


The hosts also address important secondary questions raised by this passage:

  • Should we still use oil for anointing today, as mentioned in James 5?

  • Is Jesus’s statement, "You always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me," a broad statement about poverty? (Spoiler: The answer is no; it’s a contextual rebuke to Judas) .

  • How should this text inform the church's spending and the concept of "extravagance" in worship?


This is a powerful discussion on true worship and the unmatched value of Jesus Christ.


Focused on Christ is a ministry of Heritage Baptist Church.

Connect with Us Online: focusedonchrist.com


Next Week: We begin walking through the Passion Week of Jesus.

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3 weeks ago
18 minutes 14 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 138: Charlie Kirk & the Church

Charlie Kirk and the Church - Finding Gospel Clarity Amidst Tragedy


Join hosts Mike Crump and Pastor Nathan Smith as they discuss the significant cultural and spiritual impact of Charlie Kirk's assassination. While acknowledging that they are not a political show , they examine the widespread gospel conversations sparked by the tragic event and the millions who viewed his memorial service.


They reflect on Kirk's life as a believer in Jesus Christ whose faith drove his engagement in the public sphere, much like historical figures such as William Wilberforce. They also share how his boldness in declaring the gospel has challenged and empowered many to be more bold in their own faith.


The hosts dive into an analysis of four key moments and speakers from the memorial:


Tucker Carlson: They scrutinize his comments on the relationship between politics and Christianity, specifically addressing the concept of repentance and clarifying the biblical understanding of "repent and believe" versus a "self-correct and then come" approach.


Marco Rubio: They analyze his presentation of the gospel narrative—creation, corruption, and culmination through Christ —and raise a critical question about the "we" who are promised eternal life. They caution against

universalism or legalism and emphasize that the gospel must be grounded in faith alone, by grace alone.


Erica Kirk (Charlie Kirk's Wife): They discuss the profound, countercultural moment of forgiveness she extended to her husband's killer. They offer a theological breakdown of this act, explaining that Christian forgiveness is not pretending evil didn't happen, but releasing the offense to God's justice.


President Donald Trump: They briefly contrast his commentary with Erica Kirk's act of forgiveness, highlighting that Christian forgiveness is ultimately a demonstration of faith that entrusts justice into the hands of a God who judges justly.


This discussion ultimately serves as a call for the church to be ready with the gospel and to respond to darkness and the martyrdom of Christians worldwide with a light that draws people to Christ.


www.focusedonchrist.com





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1 month ago
27 minutes 33 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 137: The Rich Man & Lazarus

In this episode of Focused on Christ, Mike Crump and Pastor Nathan Smith dive deep into Jesus’ story of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19–31). Is this account a parable or an actual historical event? What does it reveal about heaven, hell, eternity, and the sufficiency of God’s Word?

We unpack:

  • Why most scholars view this as a parable.

  • The meaning of Abraham’s side and the Jewish understanding of life after death.

  • The selfishness of the rich man’s cries from Hades.

  • The eternal chasm between life and death.

  • Why miracles—even resurrection—cannot replace the authority of Scripture.

  • How this story points us to repentance, faith in Christ, and eternal perspective.

This conversation reminds us that God’s Word is enough and challenges us to consider what truly matters: not temporary comfort, but eternal life in Christ.

👉 Subscribe for weekly teaching that exalts Christ and equips the church.
👉 Share this video to encourage others in their walk with Jesus.

📖 Key Scripture: Luke 16:19–31 | Psalm 73 | Matthew 8:34–36

🔗 Learn more and access resources: focusedonchrist.com

#RichManAndLazarus #Luke16 #ParablesOfJesus #HeavenAndHell #FocusedOnChristPodcast #BibleTeaching #ChristianPodcast #SufficiencyOfScripture

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1 month ago
13 minutes 33 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 136: Jesus & the Prodigal

Jesus and the Prodigal Son | Focused on Christ Podcast (Luke 15 Explained)

In this episode of Focused on Christ, Pastor Nathan Smith and host Mike Crump dive into Luke 15, unpacking three of Jesus’ most well-known parables—the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. These parables reveal the heart of God: His relentless pursuit of the lost, the scandal of His grace, and the joy in heaven when sinners repent.

We explore questions like:
✅ Why did Jesus eat with tax collectors and sinners?
✅ What does the parable of the prodigal son teach us about grace and forgiveness?
✅ How do the father’s actions foreshadow the work of Christ on the cross?
✅ Why did the Pharisees—and the older brother—struggle with God’s grace?

This conversation will challenge the self-righteous, encourage the broken, and remind us all of the beauty of the gospel.

📖 Scripture: Luke 15 – The Lost Sheep, The Lost Coin, The Prodigal Son
🎧 Episode 136 – Jesus and the Prodigal

✦ If you’re looking for:

  • Luke 15 Bible study

  • Parable of the Prodigal Son explained

  • What does it mean that Jesus ate with sinners?

  • Parables of Jesus explained

…this episode is for you!

🙏 Subscribe for more Christ-centered teaching and encouragement.

🔗 Connect with us: focusedonchrist.com

#ProdigalSon #Luke15 #ParablesOfJesus #FocusedOnChrist #BibleStudy

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1 month ago
25 minutes 6 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 135: Can Condemnation & Love Exist Together?

Ep. 135 | Condemnation and Love – Can Jesus Rebuke and Still Love?

Welcome to Focused on Christ, where we are passionate about exalting Christ and equipping the church. In this episode, Mike Crump and Pastor Nathan Smith dive into Matthew 11 and unpack two seemingly opposite messages from Jesus: one of condemnation and one of comfort.

Can love and rebuke truly come from the same person without contradiction? Together we explore:

  • Why Jesus rebuked cities that rejected Him despite seeing His mighty works.

  • How God’s correction is actually an expression of His love.

  • The invitation of Christ: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

  • The tension between divine judgment and divine mercy—and why both are necessary for the gospel.

If you’ve ever struggled with how rebuke and love fit together in the Christian life, this conversation will encourage and challenge you.

📖 Scripture Reference: Matthew 11:16–30
🌐 Learn more: focusedonchrist.com

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more gospel-centered content.

#FocusedOnChrist #CondemnationAndLove #Matthew11 #GospelTruth #BiblePodcast

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1 month ago
21 minutes 45 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 134: Did Jesus Lie?

Did Jesus really lie to his brothers?


In this episode of Focused on Christ Mike and Nathan examine John 7, where Jesus navigates family pressure, public scrutiny, and religious opposition during a major Jewish festival. Discover how Jesus responded when His own brothers didn't believe in Him and challenged Him to prove Himself publicly. Learn why Jesus chose to follow God's perfect timing rather than human expectations, and how this applies to your life today.


They discuss why religious leaders, despite their knowledge of Scripture, failed to recognize divine wisdom standing right before them. Understand the difference between knowing about God versus truly knowing Him personally. This episode addresses why people often reject spiritual truth even when confronted with compelling evidence, and how God's Word has unique power to transform lives beyond even miraculous signs.


If you're struggling with waiting on God's timing, facing misunderstanding from family about your faith, or seeking to deepen your relationship with God beyond religious knowledge, this episode offers biblical guidance and practical wisdom. Perfect for anyone navigating confusion in their spiritual journey or seeking to understand how God works in His perfect timing rather than on our schedule.

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2 months ago
23 minutes 2 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 133: Who is the Greatest in the Kingdom?

How do you define greatness? Is greatness based upon your influence, wealth, family, or even spiritual status? In this episode, Mike and Nathan look at Jesus' definition of greatness in order to better understand what we should be striving towards. They also take time to assess pastoral ministry in light of Jesus' definition of true greatness and play a clip of  @PaulDavidTripp  posted by  @CrosswayBooks  that helps us to see the dangers of worldly greatness in ministry. Find more about Focused on Christ at focusedonchrist.com.

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2 months ago
22 minutes 13 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 132: Jesus and Taxes

Welcome back to Focused on Christ, where our passion is to exalt Christ and equip the church. In this episode, host Mike Crump is joined by Pastor Nathan Smith to tackle a topic everyone loves…taxes!


We dive into Jesus’ teachings on both the temple tax (Matthew 17:24–27) and the Roman tax (Matthew 22:17–22). Together, we explore:

  • What was the two-drachma temple tax and its purpose?

  • How did Jesus respond to the tax collectors, and what does His response teach us about giving today?

  • Why did Jesus choose to pay the temple tax—even providing the payment in a miraculous way?

  • What does “render to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” mean for Christians living under earthly governments?

  • How should believers today think about giving and paying taxes, even when governments use funds for evil purposes?


This thoughtful conversation will help you see how Jesus’ wisdom applies to both our worship and our civic responsibilities.


🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more Christ-centered discussions each week.
🌐 Learn more and access resources at focusedonchrist.com.

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2 months ago
25 minutes 25 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 131: Jesus' most important question

Ep. 131: Peter’s Confession – Who Do You Say That I Am?In this episode of Focused on Christ, Mike Crump and Pastor Nathan Smith dive into one of the most pivotal moments in the Gospels—Peter’s confession in Matthew 16:13–23.


From Jesus’ probing question, “Who do you say that I am?”, to Peter’s bold declaration that He is the Christ, we unpack the depth of this confession, the divine revelation behind it, and what it teaches us about faith, evangelism, and the church.


We also explore the tension between Peter’s great moment of insight and his later rebuke of Jesus, revealing how even devoted followers can misunderstand God’s plan—especially when it involves suffering and sacrifice.


Topics in this episode include:

  • The significance of public opinion about Jesus
  • What it means to confess Christ as the Son of the living God
  • How God reveals truth to His people
  • Modern-day hindrances to trusting Christ in suffering


📖 Scripture Reference: Matthew 16:13–23

🔗 Resources & Connect:Visit focusedonchrist.com for more episodes, articles, and resources.

📅 Next Episode: Jesus’ view on taxes—don’t miss it!


#BibleStudy #ChristianPodcast #PetersConfession #Matthew16 #Faith #Church #FocusedOnChrist

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2 months ago
20 minutes 10 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 130: MacArthur, Cruz, & The Role of Israel

WE'RE BACK AND OUR CAMERA DIDN'T WORK (sorry about that)!Pastors Nathan and Mike are back from summer break with a conversation on news stories from this summer. What is the legacy of Dr. John MacArthur? Who will fill his shoes? What advice would you give to men who desire to be like him and other prominant pastors?Also, we play a viral clip from this summer that includes Senator Cruz and Tucker Carlson discussing the promise of blessing for those who support Israel. How are we to understand this promise today? How do we define Israel or what it means to bless?If you have a question or comment let us know below or visit focusedonchrist.com!

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3 months ago
28 minutes 14 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 129: What defiles a person?

Ep. 129 | What Defiles a Person? | Focused on Christ Podcast🎙️ Hosted by Mike Crump | Featuring Pastor Nathan Smith

In this episode of Focused on Christ, we explore one of Jesus’ most powerful confrontations with the Pharisees in Mark 7. While Jesus is healing the sick and performing miracles, the Pharisees focus on one issue—ritual handwashing. But Jesus points to a far deeper truth: defilement comes not from what’s outside, but from within the heart.

🔍 We’ll discuss:

  • The context of Jesus’ ministry leading up to this moment
  • The Pharisees' obsession with tradition over truthWhat "Corban" reveals about hypocrisyJesus’ declaration that all foods are clean
  • A sobering list of what truly defiles us—and what that means for the church today


📢 Plus, an important summer update:We’ll be taking a short break in June and July for family milestones and ministry refreshment. We'll be back with new episodes starting August 5th—a perfect time to catch up on any episodes you’ve missed!

🔗 Listen now, subscribe, and share with someone who needs the truth of the Gospel today.

👉 Visit focusedonchrist.com

🎧 Available on your favorite podcast app & YouTube

#FocusedOnChrist #Mark7 #BiblePodcast #Jesus #ChristianPodcast #Church #GospelTruth #Defilement #Corban #HeritageBaptist

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5 months ago
23 minutes 23 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 128: Jesus sends His sheep among the wolves

Ep. 128: Jesus Sends Sheep Among Wolves | Focused on Christ Podcast

In this episode of Focused on Christ, Pastor Nathan Smith joins host Mike Crump to walk through Matthew 10, where Jesus sends out His twelve disciples with power and purpose—but also a clear warning. What does it mean to be "sheep among wolves"? Why would Jesus send His followers into hostile environments? And how should believers respond to fear, persecution, and uncertainty?

We explore:

  • The significance of Jesus' commissioning of the 12 disciples

  • The instructions He gives—and why they matter

  • What it means to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves

  • How Jesus prepares His followers for suffering and bold proclamation

  • What these teachings mean for us in the church today

📖 Scripture Focus: Matthew 10:1–33
📆 Summer Update: We’ll be taking a summer break during June and July, with new episodes returning August 5th! It's a great time to catch up on any past episodes you’ve missed.

🎧 Listen on your favorite podcast app, watch on YouTube, or visit focusedonchrist.com for more content.

🙏 A ministry of Heritage Baptist Church

#FocusedOnChrist #Matthew10 #ChristianPodcast #JesusSends #SheepAmongWolves #Discipleship #FaithOverFear #BibleTeaching #GospelMission #HeritageBaptist

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5 months ago
22 minutes 20 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 127: Jesus and the Demoniac

Welcome to Focused on Christ – where we exalt Jesus and equip the church!In this powerful episode, Pastor Nathan Smith joins host Mike Crump to explore one of the most intense and hope-filled encounters in the Gospels—Jesus' deliverance of the demon-possessed man in Mark 5:1-20.

📖 What does this story teach us about the reality of demons and spiritual bondage?

💥 Why did the demons fear Jesus—and why did they ask to enter a herd of pigs?

🙌 What does this account show us about Christ’s authority, mercy, and power to set people free?

We also reflect on how this story connects with spiritual bondage today—and end with a compelling testimony from a man named Larry, who shares how Jesus rescued him from darkness and transformed his life.

🔗 Full testimony from Larry: https://x.com/McPherson_Josh1/status/1914904999928492131

If this episode encouraged you, please give us a 5-star rating and share your thoughts in the comments.👇 For more content and resources, visit:

🌐 focusedonchrist.com

Show Notes

#FocusedOnChrist #JesusHeals #Mark5 #SpiritualWarfare #Deliverance #FreedomInChrist #ChristianPodcast #BibleTeaching

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5 months ago
24 minutes 48 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 126: Can Christians Cuss?

Ep. 126: Can Christians Cuss? | Catholicism, Easter Drama, and Strong Language in ScriptureIn this episode of Focused on Christ, Pastor Nathan Smith joins host Mike Crump to tackle a thought-provoking batch of mailbag questions that tie into recent news and cultural trends.We start by reflecting on the death of Pope Francis and explore the key theological differences between Catholic, Protestant, and Eastern Orthodox traditions—including their views on salvation, church leadership, and the role of the Pope.Next, we discuss some surprising Easter church events, including a “Princess Bride” musical (Source: Twitter ⁨@Protestia⁩) and a pastor who used explicit language from the pulpit following online backlash. This leads us to the central question from a listener: Is it ever appropriate for Christians to use curse words or strong language?We break this down into:Curse words: What defines them? Are they ever acceptable for believers?Strong rebukes in Scripture: From “brood of vipers” to Paul’s bold language—how should we understand these?Sexual imagery in the Bible: How should Christians speak about sexuality in an oversexualized culture?Join us as we dig into Scripture and cultural wisdom to answer these tough but important questions.🔔 Subscribe for more Christ-centered conversations🌐 Visit focusedonchrist.com for show notes and resources⭐️ If this episode encouraged you, please leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend!#ChristianPodcast #CussingChristian #CatholicVsProtestant #BiblicalLanguage #EasterControversy #FocusedOnChrist

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6 months ago
25 minutes 50 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 125: The Cost of Following Jesus

Welcome to Focused on Christ, where we are passionate about exalting Christ and equipping the church.

In Episode 125, your host Mike Crump is joined by Pastor Nathan Smith as we explore one of the most challenging and counter-cultural teachings of Jesus found in Luke 9:23-27 — the call to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Him.

Before diving into Jesus' powerful call to self-denial, we look at the broader context:

  • The miraculous feeding of the 5,000

  • The crowd’s desire to make Jesus king (John 5)

  • Peter’s bold confession: “You are the Christ of God”

  • Jesus’ foretelling of His suffering, death, and resurrection

These moments reveal Christ’s power, authority, and identity—yet He follows them with a sobering call to follow Him into suffering and sacrifice.

📖 In this episode, we discuss:

  • What Jesus meant by “take up your cross daily”

  • The cost of truly following Christ in a self-obsessed culture

  • Why denying self is so difficult in a world that worships autonomy and personal desire

  • The encouragement found in the transfiguration that follows Jesus’ call

  • How we can grow in the daily pursuit of dying to self (2 Peter 1:5-7)

Whether you’re a new believer or have walked with Christ for years, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to live with eternal purpose, rooted in the grace, glory, and promises of Christ.

🙏 Thank you for listening to Focused on Christ, a ministry of Heritage Baptist Church. If this episode encouraged you, please consider giving us a 5-star rating and leaving a comment to help others find gospel-centered content.

🔗 For show notes, more episodes, and resources, visit https://focusedonchrist.com

#ChristianPodcast #Luke9 #Discipleship #SelfDenial #TakeUpYourCross #FocusedOnChrist #HeritageBaptistChurch

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6 months ago
22 minutes 45 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 124: Parables about the Kingdom of Heaven

Welcome back to Focused on Christ, where we are passionate about exalting Jesus and equipping the church for everyday faithfulness.In this episode, host Mike Crump is joined by Pastor Nathan Smith to explore several of Jesus’ parables from Matthew 13 that reveal the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven—its growth, value, and the sobering reality of judgment.💬 Listener Question from SydneyWe begin by revisiting Episode 121 and responding to a thoughtful listener question about the Parable of the Sower, wrestling with what it means to be "good soil" and whether all believers should be producing a 30/60/100-fold harvest.🌾 The Parable of the WeedsWho are the "sons of the kingdom" and the "sons of the evil one"?What does this parable teach us about the presence of evil in the world—and even in the church?Is Jesus scaring people with his words? Teaching on Noah: https://youtu.be/or0AEffRGKs🌱 The Mustard Seed & LeavenWhat do these parables teach us about the growth and influence of God’s kingdom?Is leaven always a negative symbol?How should these truths shape our outlook on ministry and the church today?💎 The Treasure & the PearlWhy would someone sell everything for the Kingdom?What does it mean to value Christ above all else?🙏 As always, thank you for listening to Focused on Christ, a ministry of Heritage Baptist Church. If this episode encouraged you, please give us a 5-star rating, leave a review, and share it with a friend!🔗 For more content and show notes: focusedonchrist.com

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6 months ago
25 minutes 8 seconds

Focused on Christ
Ep. 123: Revisiting the Resurrection

Welcome to Focused on Christ, where we are passionate about exalting Christ and equipping the church!

In this milestone 50th episode, Mike Crump is joined by Pastor Nathan Smith for a deeply moving conversation on the most incredible display of love in all of history—the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Together, we walk through key moments from Mark 15 and Luke 23, asking essential questions about what Christ’s suffering and death reveal about the heart and character of God the Father.

  • Why did Jesus remain silent before His accusers?

  • What does the release of Barabbas show us about grace and substitution?

  • How does God respond to mockery, injustice, and cruelty?

  • What is the significance of the darkness, the torn temple curtain, and Jesus’ final words?

We also explore why Jesus had to suffer, how His death frees us from the power of sin (Romans 6:6–8), and what it means to live daily in light of the cross.

If you’ve ever asked, “What does the crucifixion mean for me personally?”—this episode is for you.

📖 Scripture References:
Mark 15:1–20
Luke 23:44–47
Romans 6:6–8

🔗 For more Christ-centered resources, visit: https://focusedonchrist.com

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6 months ago
23 minutes 36 seconds

Focused on Christ
Focused on Christ is dedicated to exalting Christ and equipping the church. Hosted by Mike Crump and Dr. Nathan Smith, Focused on Christ looks at topics and issues facing the Christian church and filters them through the Word of God. As pastors, Mike and Nathan can help navigate theology, current events, and relational issues that crop up in and around the church in order that followers of Jesus are prepared for living the gospel life among the nations. New episodes drop every Tuesday morning on all podcasting platforms as well as YouTube and X.