...or are Angels and Daemons something that only existed in the olden days? Can people still become possessed by Satan? Do Angels live among us? How do you know if someone is possessed by the Devil? Doug & Ryan talk about all of this and more. Give us your thoughts on Angels and Daemons? Do you know someone who was possessed....were you possessed? Let us know by commenting. May peace and love be with you every day my brothers and sisters!
Does God want us to pray a certain way? What is considered a solid prayer in God's eyes?
Doug & Ryan delve into topics like the believability of long lifespans in the Bible, such as Noah living to 950 years and Methuselah to 969 years, challenging these narratives with modern skepticism and scientific inquiry. Navigating through various biblical stories, examining them from a faith-based perspective while acknowledging the difficulty of reconciling these ancient narratives with contemporary understanding. Topics such as the logistics of Noah's Ark, the purpose of the flood, and the implications of long lifespans on humanity's early days are explored, providing listeners with insights into the complexities of biblical interpretation. Emphasizing the importance of faith and trust in God, encouraging listeners to approach the Bible with an open mind and heart, without getting bogged down by the need for empirical evidence for every narrative. It's a call to view these stories as lessons in faith, morality, and the human condition, rather than historical accounts that must be scientifically validated. This is a personal journey of faith, urging people to seek their own understanding and relationship with God. Significance of sanctification, the challenges of interpreting ancient texts in a modern context, and the enduring quest for spiritual growth and understanding. Through the conversation, Doug & Ryan aim to bridge the gap between doubt and belief, inviting listeners to explore Christianity in a way that resonates with their personal journey and spiritual inquiries.
Welcome to the Real Christians Podcast, not just another podcast for Christians, but also for unbelievers and skeptics as well. So, whether you’re a Christian or not, it’s okay. We are just ordinary, average guys, trying to be REAL Christians, discussing REAL faith, REAL life issues, and knowing the REAL Jesus. Show References: Jesus talks with Matthew about the Sermon - The Chosen • Jesus talks with Matthew about the Se... The Chosen's biblical roundtables: • The Chosen's biblical roundtables: Fu... Unfiltered: Gen-Z Reacts to The Chosen https://www.youtube.com/live/f7_73W0g...#RealChristiansTX
If you think you have a good life with plenty of money, family and friends, but don't believe in God, who gets the credit for your success?
What things are we supposed to tolerate?
Instead of using the Bible to fit personal agendas, it is generally more respectful and intellectually honest to approach religious texts with humility, openness, and a willingness to engage in dialogue with diverse perspectives. This allows for a more nuanced and authentic understanding of the religious teachings and promotes mutual respect and empathy among different individuals and communities.
Doug is trying to figure out what happened to cause him to be angry...again.
How someone acts in front of others can provide some clues about their beliefs and values, including their religious faith. However, it's important to remember that behavior can be influenced by various factors, and it may not always accurately reflect a person's true beliefs or the depth of their faith. Here are some behavioral indicators that might suggest someone is a Christian: 1. **Kindness and Compassion:** Christians are often encouraged to show kindness, compassion, and love towards others. If you consistently observe someone demonstrating these qualities, it could be an indicator of their Christian beliefs. 2. **Forgiveness:** Christianity places a strong emphasis on forgiveness. If someone readily forgives others and practices forgiveness in their interactions, it may reflect their Christian values. 3. **Humility:** Humility is a virtue in many Christian traditions. Someone who displays humility, modesty, and a lack of arrogance may be influenced by their Christian faith. 4. **Generosity:** Many Christians believe in the importance of generosity and giving to those in need. If someone is actively involved in charitable activities or frequently helps others, it may align with their Christian principles. 5. **Honesty and Integrity:** Christianity often emphasizes honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior. Someone who consistently demonstrates these qualities may be guided by their faith. 6. **Respect for Others:** Respecting the dignity and worth of every person is a common Christian value. If someone shows respect for others, regardless of their background or beliefs, it could be influenced by their faith. 7. **Service to the Community:** Involvement in community service and volunteering can be a reflection of Christian principles of service to others. 8. **Conflict Resolution:** Christians are encouraged to seek peaceful resolutions to conflicts. Someone who actively tries to resolve conflicts in a peaceful and reconciliatory manner may be influenced by their faith. 9. **Avoidance of Harmful Behaviors:** Many Christians avoid certain behaviors that are considered sinful or harmful according to their beliefs. This might include abstaining from substances or activities they see as incompatible with their faith. 10. **Prayer and Religious Rituals:** If someone openly prays or participates in religious rituals in front of others, it is a clear indicator of their Christian faith. While these behavioral indicators may suggest that someone is a Christian, it's essential to avoid making assumptions based solely on behavior. Engaging in open and respectful conversations with the person can provide a more accurate understanding of their beliefs and the role of Christianity in their life. People may have personal reasons for the way they behave, and their faith may be more complex and nuanced than what is immediately apparent. If you found this video helpful, please like, share, and subscribe for more content on faith, spirituality, and personal growth. And don't forget to hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest videos!
🏠 How to identify what matters most in a church for you. 🔑 Key factors to consider when evaluating different congregations. 🗺️ Strategies for exploring and visiting potential churches. 🤝 Tips for connecting with like-minded individuals and building lasting relationships within your chosen church. Community and Fellowship: Attending church allows individuals to connect with like-minded people who share their faith, values, and beliefs. This sense of community and fellowship can provide emotional support, a sense of belonging, and opportunities for social interaction and friendship. Accountability: Attending church regularly can provide a sense of accountability for one's faith and moral values. Being part of a church community encourages individuals to live in accordance with their beliefs and values.
🌟 Unveiling the Remarkable Ministry of FESTO MREMA: Tanzania Church Planter 🌟 | with Doug and Ryan at Brookhaven Church in McKinney, Texas. Prepare to be inspired as we dive deep into the extraordinary journey of Festo Mrema, a remarkable Tanzania church planter who has been making an incredible impact in East Africa. Doug and Ryan sit down with Festo to hear his personal stories, from his challenging childhood to his life-changing decision of leaving his tribe and embracing Christianity. 🙏 A Message of Hope 🙏 Festo's story is not just about his own journey; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of faith. Through this interview, we hope to inspire countless others to embrace their unique calling, overcome obstacles, and make a positive difference in the lives of others. 👉 Subscribe and hit the notification bell to never miss an update! #FestoMrema #TanzaniaChurchPlanter #EastAfricaMinistry #JourneyOfFaith #Inspiration #ChurchPlanting #Transformation #ChristianityInAfrica #DougAndRyanInterview
In the Bible, there is no specific mention of the phrases "old flesh" and "new flesh." However, there are similar concepts discussed in relation to the human condition and spiritual transformation. One relevant concept is the contrast between the "old self" and the "new self" or "new creation." The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often discusses this dichotomy. In his letter to the Ephesians, for example, Paul writes about putting off the "old self" characterized by sinful and worldly desires and putting on the "new self" created in the likeness of God (Ephesians 4:22-24). The "old self" refers to the person we were before accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. It represents our sinful nature and the desires that are contrary to God's will. The "new self," on the other hand, represents the transformation that occurs in a person's life when they become a follower of Christ. It involves aligning oneself with God's purposes, living a life of righteousness, and being conformed to the image of Christ. This transformation is often described metaphorically as being "born again" or "born of the Spirit" (John 3:3-8), where a person's old life is put to death, and they are made spiritually alive in Christ. The process involves a change of heart, mind, and behavior, as well as the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live according to God's purposes. While the specific phrases "old flesh" and "new flesh" may not be used in the Bible, the concepts of the old self and new self are closely related and convey the idea of the spiritual transformation that occurs when one becomes a follower of Christ. Scripture References: - https://biblehub.com/ezekiel/36-26.htm Additional Study Material/Readings: - https://www.cslewisinstitute.org/resources/dying-to-the-flesh/ - https://www.ligonier.org/learn/qas/why-did-god-promise-to-give-a-new-heart-of-flesh-to-his-old-testament-people
Welcome to our thought-provoking discussion on a topic that has touched the hearts of many - being a gay Christian. 🌈✝️ In this video, Doug and Ryan scratch the surface into the complex and personal views on individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and follow the Christian faith. We explore questions like "Does God accept me for being gay?" and "Where do my homosexual thoughts come from?" seeking to provide insights, comfort, and guidance for those who may be struggling with their identity and spirituality. Homosexuality and Christianity have been topics of discussion and interpretation within Christian communities for many years. Different Christian denominations and individual believers hold diverse views on this matter. It's important to note that our discussions represent a general overview and may not encompass all perspectives. We're just 2 dudes trying to understand complicated issues that we experience through the lenses of Real Christians, who are sinners like the rest of our human race. 1. Inclusive and affirming churches: Some Christian denominations and individual congregations are inclusive and affirming of LGBTQ+ individuals, including those who identify as homosexual. They believe that sexual orientation does not contradict a person's ability to have a relationship with God or be a part of the Christian community. These churches often perform same-sex marriages and fully include LGBTQ+ individuals in their ministries and leadership positions. 2. Traditional interpretation: Some Christian groups adhere to a traditional interpretation of biblical teachings that view homosexual acts as sinful. They believe that the Bible condemns same-sex sexual relationships and consider homosexual behavior to be incompatible with Christian teachings. However, these groups may still show love and acceptance towards individuals with same-sex attractions while encouraging celibacy or opposite-sex marriages. 3. Reconciliation and dialogue: There are Christians who seek to bridge the gap between differing perspectives on homosexuality. They encourage open dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation within the Christian community, recognizing that sincere believers can have differing opinions on this topic. Their focus is often on building relationships and fostering unity amidst diversity. 4. Personal beliefs: Within Christianity, individual believers may have a range of personal beliefs regarding homosexuality. Some Christians who identify as homosexual may choose to reconcile their faith and sexual orientation in various ways, such as celibacy or committed same-sex relationships, while others may struggle with their sexual orientation and seek support from their faith community. It's essential to acknowledge that the perspectives on homosexuality within Christianity are not monolithic. Christians' attitudes towards homosexuality can vary widely based on their interpretation of scripture, theological understanding, cultural context, and personal convictions. It's recommended to engage in respectful conversations and seek a deeper understanding of diverse viewpoints to foster empathy and dialogue. Ultimately though, we should all be seeking God in this matter, and all matters, and not rely on our own understanding and desires of how we want things to be. As Christians, our desires should align with God's desires regardless of how we think. Sometimes we know His desires because they are spelled out in scripture, sometimes He speaks to us directly, and sometime we have to navigate based on our own with the understanding that He will direct us as we live life. We do not want to be influenced by culture, our own passions, other peoples ideas, we want to be influenced by God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. May God bless us all today. #JesusLives, #journeyoffaith, #godlovesyou ***
As a Christian, my faith is not just a set of beliefs or rituals, but a transformative relationship with God through Jesus Christ. It provides me with a deep sense of meaning, purpose, and hope. Through my faith, I find comfort in knowing that I am loved unconditionally and forgiven for my shortcomings. It teaches me to love and serve others, to strive for justice and compassion, and to seek reconciliation and healing in a broken world. My faith offers me guidance in making ethical decisions, finding solace in times of difficulty, and experiencing joy in the blessings of life. It is an anchor that sustains me in times of uncertainty and a source of inspiration to live a life that reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ. Everybody Talks to God (Aaron Lewis) https://youtu.be/allxx9EzoxU
As a Christian, volunteering your time holds significant importance for several reasons: Living out the teachings of Jesus: Jesus emphasized the importance of selflessness and service to others. By volunteering, you follow His example and embody His teachings. It allows you to demonstrate love, compassion, and kindness to those in need, just as Jesus did during His earthly ministry. Serving the community: Volunteering provides an opportunity to make a positive impact on your community. By actively engaging in volunteer work, you contribute to the well-being and betterment of society. Through your actions, you can bring hope, encouragement, and practical help to individuals and communities facing various challenges. Sharing the love of Christ: Volunteering allows you to share the love of Christ in tangible ways. It provides a platform to demonstrate God's love by meeting people's physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Through acts of service, you can reflect God's character and point others towards Him. Fostering unity and fellowship: Volunteering often involves working alongside other Christians and like-minded individuals. This shared experience creates opportunities for fellowship, collaboration, and building meaningful relationships. It strengthens the sense of community and unity within the body of Christ. Developing humility and gratitude: Volunteering cultivates humility by reminding us of our blessings and privileges. It helps us recognize that we are called to be good stewards of what we have been given and to use our resources for the benefit of others. Volunteering also fosters gratitude as we witness the struggles and challenges faced by others, which deepens our appreciation for God's provision in our own lives. Witnessing and evangelism: Volunteering can be an effective form of evangelism. By serving others, you have opportunities to share your faith, engage in conversations about God, and provide a living testimony of Christ's transformative power. Your actions can spark curiosity and open doors for deeper spiritual discussions. Remember, volunteering should be motivated by a genuine desire to serve and reflect God's love rather than seeking personal recognition or validation. By offering your time and talents in service to others, you not only bless those around you but also grow in your own faith and understanding of what it means to follow Christ.
As a Christian, the approach to changing one's life can vary depending on the individual and their specific circumstances. However, it is generally advisable to approach personal transformation with a combination of enthusiasm and wisdom, rather than diving in excessively or taking only baby steps. David Pawson https://www.youtube.com/@UCHcMzsUck5hwRHE77AOTNSA https://www.davidpawson.org/ Balance: It's important to strike a balance between being eager to grow in your faith and being realistic about the process. Trying to make too many changes at once can be overwhelming and may lead to burnout or discouragement. At the same time, being too cautious or hesitant may hinder your progress. Seek a middle ground that allows you to take meaningful steps forward without overwhelming yourself. Prayer and Guidance: Begin by seeking guidance from God through prayer. Ask for wisdom and discernment in discerning the changes you need to make in your life. In addition, seek counsel from trusted spiritual mentors, pastors, or Christian friends who can offer guidance and support. They can help you navigate the path of personal transformation and provide valuable insights. Prioritize: Identify the areas of your life where change is most needed and prioritize them accordingly. Rather than attempting to change everything simultaneously, focus on one or a few specific areas at a time. This targeted approach will enable you to dedicate your energy and resources effectively, allowing for more sustainable and lasting change. Take Action: Once you have identified the areas you want to address, take action and set achievable goals. Break down the process into smaller steps that you can work on consistently. Taking action, even if it starts with small steps, is crucial for progress. Remember that transformation is a journey, and each step, no matter how small, can bring you closer to your desired outcome. Accountability and Support: Surround yourself with a community of like-minded individuals who can hold you accountable and provide support along the way. This can be through joining a small group, participating in a Bible study, or connecting with other Christians who share similar goals. The encouragement and accountability from others can greatly aid your growth and help you stay on track. Ultimately, the pace of change will vary for each person, and it's important to respect your own unique journey. Trust in God's guidance, seek wisdom, and take intentional steps forward, allowing His transformative power to work in your life.
As a Christian, the fear of God does not refer to being afraid or terrified of God in a fearful sense. Instead, it encompasses a deep reverence, respect, and awe for who God is. It is an attitude that acknowledges God's greatness, holiness, and authority over all things.
Why Christians have a fear of God:
Reverence for His holiness: The fear of God arises from recognizing His perfect holiness and righteousness. God is pure, without sin, and stands apart from all that is evil. Our fear of God comes from understanding that He is deserving of our utmost respect and honor.
Recognition of His power: God is the Creator and sustainer of the universe. He has the power to bring forth life, judge the wicked, and accomplish His purposes. Acknowledging His sovereignty and power instills a sense of awe and reverence within us.
Understanding of His judgment: The fear of God also includes an awareness of His righteous judgment. Scripture teaches that God will hold all people accountable for their actions and that there will be consequences for sin. This fear motivates Christians to live in accordance with His commandments and seek forgiveness through Jesus Christ.
Gratitude for His mercy: While the fear of God acknowledges His judgment, it is balanced by the understanding of His abundant mercy and grace. God's love and forgiveness are available to those who seek Him with a repentant heart. The fear of God helps us appreciate the depth of His mercy and motivates us to live in gratitude and obedience.
Desire to avoid separation from Him: The fear of God includes a desire to maintain a close and intimate relationship with Him. It involves a healthy fear of straying away from His will and experiencing the consequences of being separated from Him. This fear serves as a reminder to stay committed and devoted to God.
Ultimately, the fear of God is intertwined with love, trust, and obedience. It is a deep reverence for God's character and a recognition of our dependence on Him. Through a proper fear of God, Christians can grow in their relationship with Him, align their lives with His purposes, and experience the fullness of His love and grace.
Why does God make us uncomfortable at times?
Is it to humble us, embarrass us, change us, or Help us?
Charlie joins the mix and talks about what it was like when he was told he was being let go from his job in the beverage industry.
Satan mimics everything God created including Jesus Christ but is the opposite of God, or "Anti-Christ," who tries to undo everything God has done.
The story about the two wolves is not specifically a Christian story but rather a Native American parable that has gained popularity and been adopted by various religious and spiritual traditions, including Christianity. It is often used as a metaphor to illustrate the ongoing internal struggle between good and evil or positive and negative forces within a person.
The story goes like this: A grandfather is talking to his grandson and teaching him about life. He says, "There are two wolves inside each of us, constantly at war. One is the wolf of love, compassion, kindness, and all that is good. The other is the wolf of hate, anger, jealousy, and all that is negative."
The grandson, curious and eager to learn, asks, "Which wolf wins, Grandfather?"
The wise old man smiles and replies, "The one you feed."
In a Christian context, this story can be seen as a reminder of the ongoing battle between the desires of the flesh and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul speaks about this struggle in his letter to the Galatians, where he writes about the conflict between the desires of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-26). Christians believe that by choosing to follow Christ and nourishing their faith through prayer, reading the Bible, participating in worship, and living a life of obedience to God's commandments, they can strengthen the influence of the Holy Spirit and allow the virtues of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control to flourish.
Ultimately, the story of the two wolves serves as a reminder of the power of choice and the responsibility to nurture positive qualities within ourselves. By actively feeding and cultivating the virtues and values consistent with our faith, Christians can strive to live a life that reflects the teachings and example of Jesus Christ.
In Christianity, there are no specific "levels" or hierarchical structures that define a person's walk with God. Each individual's relationship with God is unique and personal. However, there are certain concepts and stages that Christians often refer to when discussing spiritual growth and maturity. It's important to note that these concepts are not universally accepted or agreed upon, and different Christian traditions may have their own terminology and understandings. Here are a few common concepts that are sometimes used to describe a person's spiritual journey:
New Believers/Seekers: These are individuals who are new to the Christian faith or who are exploring Christianity. They may be in the process of learning about Jesus, studying the Bible, attending church services, and seeking to understand and develop their faith.
Disciples/Followers: This refers to individuals who have made a commitment to follow Jesus Christ. They actively seek to live according to his teachings and strive to develop a personal relationship with God. Discipleship involves learning, growing, and applying biblical principles to one's life.
Mature Believers: These are Christians who have been walking with God for a significant period and have deepened their understanding of the faith. They have gained wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual maturity through studying the Bible, prayer, fellowship with other believers, and applying biblical principles in their daily lives.
Spiritual Leaders/Mentors: Some Christians may have a calling to lead and mentor others in their faith. These individuals have a strong foundation in their relationship with God and are equipped to teach, guide, and support others on their spiritual journey.
It's important to remember that these categories are not rigid or exclusive, and spiritual growth is a lifelong process. Every Christian's journey is unique, and people may progress at different rates and have different experiences along the way. The focus should be on developing a personal and authentic relationship with God, continually seeking His guidance, and striving to live according to the teachings of Jesus Christ.