Advertise on podcast: Keeping It Real: Kingdom Conversations with Chris Barhorst and Jon Jebavy

Email us: [email protected] We are trying something new! The full podcast will now be available every Wednesday instead of broke up into three parts. We hope you enjoy the change! Insights • The Distraction Attraction: The group identifies distraction as a primary spiritual hurdle in America. Chris defines "worry" as being "divided into parts," noting that while adversity forces one to look up, prosperity often suffocates spiritual fruit through the "lust of other things."     • Rhema vs. Logos: A central theme is that faith comes from hearing a specific, revealed word from God (Rhema). Stefani noted that Rhema acts as "authorization" or a "warrant" to use the promises of the Bible responsibly.     • The Letter vs. The Spirit: Chris highlights 2 Corinthians 3:6, arguing that "the letter kills" when spiritual disciplines become rigid formulas (e.g., the "Could You Not Tarry One Hour" movement) rather than responses to the Spirit's leading.     • Righteousness as a Gift: The group rejects legalism—defined as "antichrist" because it replaces Christ’s finished work with human performance. They conclude that one must "labor to enter rest," seizing the gift of righteousness rather than trying to earn it.     Practical Applications • Mental Redirection: Kevin shared his experience of moving from a self-willed "thought captive" approach to a Spirit-led one. He emphasized that the direction of one's life follows their most dominant thought.     • The Power of Tongues: Chris describes praying in the Spirit as "priming the pump" or entering a "current" that carries a believer into victory. The group discusses tongues as a "divine secret" that bypasses the carnal mind and prevents the enemy from thwarting God's plans.     • Pragmatic Leading: The Spirit’s guidance is described as practical, not just "spiritual." Kevin recounted the Holy Spirit leading him to work on his truck, providing peace and joy in a mundane task.     Strategic Perspectives The Garden vs. The Cross: Jon noted that the victory of the cross was actually won in the Garden of Gethsemane through prayer and submission, emphasizing that the "prayer closet" is the source of all outward power.Portals of Agreement: The human body is described as a portal; manifestation (good or evil) depends entirely on what the individual chooses to come into agreement with.Ministry as Distribution: Jon defines ministry not as a platform for approval, but as "serving people from the Master’s table"—acting as a distributor of grace.Dr. Jim Richards will be our guest November 25, you don't want to miss it! Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] What if the most terrifying forces in this world operate through a kingdom we've barely begun to understand? Tony Merkel sits down with Alexander Pagani and Pastor Fred Price Jr. to uncover what they believe is a hidden hierarchy within the kingdom of darkness. Their startling interpretation of Jesus' confrontation with Legion raises unsettling questions about what was really happening that day. As firsthand accounts of deliverance reveal a disturbing side of the supernatural, the possibility of spiritual forces holding authority over entire regions becomes impossible to ignore. This powerful discussion challenges everything we think we know about spiritual warfare while revealing why the authority of Jesus Christ is greater than the darkness. Please pray for Tony's wife, Lindsay, as she battles breast cancer. Your prayers make a difference! If you’re able, consider helping the Merkel family with medical expenses by donating to Lindsay’s GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/b8f76890 🚨 Join Our Exclusive Community 🔗 Get early access to exclusive content:    / theconfessionalspodcast  📕 Order Tony's Book: https://a.co/d/0bJS3SaV Merkel Media Apparel: https://merkmerch.com/ 📰 Subscribe to Our Newsletter: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.c... 📚 Tony's Recommended Reads: https://slingshotlibrary.com If you want to learn about Jesus and what it means to be saved: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.c... ⭐️ Alexander Pagani YouTube: ‪@alexanderpaganilive‬ Website: https://alexanderpagani.live/ Book: https://a.co/d/0hGyY1J1 ⭐️ Fred Price Jr. YouTube: ‪@housearrestpodcast‬ Instagram:   / fredpricejr  Book: https://a.co/d/09NASEEA 🔔 Subscribe for More Content 👉    / @theconfessionalspodcast  💬 Leave a Comment! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Connect With Us: 🛜 Website: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.com/ 📧 Email: [email protected] 📢 FOLLOW US: 🟣 Instagram:   / theconfessionalspodcast  ❌ X: https://x.com/TConfessionals 🔵 Facebook:   / theconfessionalspodcast  📌 Website: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.com 📚 Reddit:   / theconfessionals  💬 Discord:   / discord  📬 Mailing Address: Merkel Media 6726 Morganton Rd P.O. Box #08 Greenback, TN 37742 Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] The discussion centers on the transition from a legalistic, rule-based religious framework to a New Covenant understanding of grace, correction, and identity. The participants argue that true spiritual growth and authority stem from a heart-level submission to Christ rather than external behavioral modification. Key Insights & Theological Nuance Redefining Correction: Correction (chastening) is framed NOT as "child abuse" or penance, but as "child training" rooted in love. The group critiques traditional religious views that equate chastening with physical or emotional beating, asserting that if the Word of God does not correct a believer, it cannot effectively direct them.The Illusion of Independence: There is no "middle ground" or neutral state of existence. A person is always submitted to one of two kingdoms: Light or Darkness. Attempting to be "one's own man" is identified as a characteristic of darkness, mirroring the original rebellion of Satan.The "Covering" Controversy: The group rejects the "shepherding movement" ideology where pastors act as a "Holy Ghost Junior" or a mandatory spiritual covering. They assert that Jesus is the only true covering. True authority in the church should be based on service and humility, not control or insecurity.Righteousness vs. Sin Habits: Drawing from Graham Cooke, the group distinguishes between a "sin nature" (which they believe is killed at the new birth) and "sin habits" (learned behaviors apart from God). They argue that denying one's righteousness in Christ leaves the believer without the "breastplate" of the armor of God, making them vulnerable to identity-based attacks from the enemy.The Mechanics of Prayer: Praying in the Spirit is described as "water to the heart," providing internal contentment and regeneration even when emotional "goosebumps" are absent. It is framed as a vital tool for building oneself up and interceding for others beyond the limitations of human intellect.Nuance & Friction Religious Trauma: Several participants shared personal accounts of being "cursed" by former churches for leaving or being manipulated through the "curse of the law" regarding tithing. This history of abuse initially led to calloused hearts and a resistance to any form of correction.The Mystery of Healing: A tension was noted regarding physical healing. While maintaining that God's will is always to heal, they acknowledged the "mystery" of why some are healed and others are not, citing factors like internal heart conditions, unbelief, or a simple readiness to "go home" (as seen in the Andrew Wommack anecdote).Law vs. Grace: The group clarified that while they are not "under the law" for righteousness, walking in the love of Christ naturally fulfills the Torah's requirements without the need for external striving.Operational Directives Identity Alignment: Focus on agreeing with God's conclusion (confession) that the believer is the righteousness of God, regardless of current feelings or failures.Relational Triage: Avoid engaging with demonic influence in others through arguing; instead, utilize silence and internal prayer to maintain spiritual authority.Ministry Philosophy: Church should be a "supplement" (vitamin) to a personal relationship with God, not a substitute for it.Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] The discussion centers on the transition from a legalistic, rule-based religious framework to a New Covenant understanding of grace, correction, and identity. The participants argue that true spiritual growth and authority stem from a heart-level submission to Christ rather than external behavioral modification. Key Insights & Theological Nuance Redefining Correction: Correction (chastening) is framed NOT as "child abuse" or penance, but as "child training" rooted in love. The group critiques traditional religious views that equate chastening with physical or emotional beating, asserting that if the Word of God does not correct a believer, it cannot effectively direct them.The Illusion of Independence: There is no "middle ground" or neutral state of existence. A person is always submitted to one of two kingdoms: Light or Darkness. Attempting to be "one's own man" is identified as a characteristic of darkness, mirroring the original rebellion of Satan.The "Covering" Controversy: The group rejects the "shepherding movement" ideology where pastors act as a "Holy Ghost Junior" or a mandatory spiritual covering. They assert that Jesus is the only true covering. True authority in the church should be based on service and humility, not control or insecurity.Righteousness vs. Sin Habits: Drawing from Graham Cooke, the group distinguishes between a "sin nature" (which they believe is killed at the new birth) and "sin habits" (learned behaviors apart from God). They argue that denying one's righteousness in Christ leaves the believer without the "breastplate" of the armor of God, making them vulnerable to identity-based attacks from the enemy.The Mechanics of Prayer: Praying in the Spirit is described as "water to the heart," providing internal contentment and regeneration even when emotional "goosebumps" are absent. It is framed as a vital tool for building oneself up and interceding for others beyond the limitations of human intellect.Nuance & Friction Religious Trauma: Several participants shared personal accounts of being "cursed" by former churches for leaving or being manipulated through the "curse of the law" regarding tithing. This history of abuse initially led to calloused hearts and a resistance to any form of correction.The Mystery of Healing: A tension was noted regarding physical healing. While maintaining that God's will is always to heal, they acknowledged the "mystery" of why some are healed and others are not, citing factors like internal heart conditions, unbelief, or a simple readiness to "go home" (as seen in the Andrew Wommack anecdote).Law vs. Grace: The group clarified that while they are not "under the law" for righteousness, walking in the love of Christ naturally fulfills the Torah's requirements without the need for external striving.Operational Directives Identity Alignment: Focus on agreeing with God's conclusion (confession) that the believer is the righteousness of God, regardless of current feelings or failures.Relational Triage: Avoid engaging with demonic influence in others through arguing; instead, utilize silence and internal prayer to maintain spiritual authority.Ministry Philosophy: Church should be a "supplement" (vitamin) to a personal relationship with God, not a substitute for it.Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] The discussion centers on the transition from a legalistic, rule-based religious framework to a New Covenant understanding of grace, correction, and identity. The participants argue that true spiritual growth and authority stem from a heart-level submission to Christ rather than external behavioral modification. Key Insights & Theological Nuance Redefining Correction: Correction (chastening) is framed NOT as "child abuse" or penance, but as "child training" rooted in love. The group critiques traditional religious views that equate chastening with physical or emotional beating, asserting that if the Word of God does not correct a believer, it cannot effectively direct them.The Illusion of Independence: There is no "middle ground" or neutral state of existence. A person is always submitted to one of two kingdoms: Light or Darkness. Attempting to be "one's own man" is identified as a characteristic of darkness, mirroring the original rebellion of Satan.The "Covering" Controversy: The group rejects the "shepherding movement" ideology where pastors act as a "Holy Ghost Junior" or a mandatory spiritual covering. They assert that Jesus is the only true covering. True authority in the church should be based on service and humility, not control or insecurity.Righteousness vs. Sin Habits: Drawing from Graham Cooke, the group distinguishes between a "sin nature" (which they believe is killed at the new birth) and "sin habits" (learned behaviors apart from God). They argue that denying one's righteousness in Christ leaves the believer without the "breastplate" of the armor of God, making them vulnerable to identity-based attacks from the enemy.The Mechanics of Prayer: Praying in the Spirit is described as "water to the heart," providing internal contentment and regeneration even when emotional "goosebumps" are absent. It is framed as a vital tool for building oneself up and interceding for others beyond the limitations of human intellect.Nuance & Friction Religious Trauma: Several participants shared personal accounts of being "cursed" by former churches for leaving or being manipulated through the "curse of the law" regarding tithing. This history of abuse initially led to calloused hearts and a resistance to any form of correction.The Mystery of Healing: A tension was noted regarding physical healing. While maintaining that God's will is always to heal, they acknowledged the "mystery" of why some are healed and others are not, citing factors like internal heart conditions, unbelief, or a simple readiness to "go home" (as seen in the Andrew Wommack anecdote).Law vs. Grace: The group clarified that while they are not "under the law" for righteousness, walking in the love of Christ naturally fulfills the Torah's requirements without the need for external striving.Operational Directives Identity Alignment: Focus on agreeing with God's conclusion (confession) that the believer is the righteousness of God, regardless of current feelings or failures.Relational Triage: Avoid engaging with demonic influence in others through arguing; instead, utilize silence and internal prayer to maintain spiritual authority.Ministry Philosophy: Church should be a "supplement" (vitamin) to a personal relationship with God, not a substitute for it.Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] The conversation centered on the transition from religious duty to a genuine relationship with Christ, emphasizing the distinction between striving in the flesh and resting in the Holy Spirit. The group explored themes of submission, identity, and the psychological barriers created by religious legalism. Core Topic: Relationship vs. Religion The group identified "religious duty" as a primary obstacle to spiritual growth. They argued that following Jesus is not about obeying laws through self-effort, but about a heart posture of submission that allows the Holy Spirit to work through the believer. Motive and Posture: Jon JJ noted that even spiritual disciplines (prayer, study) can become empty "escapes" if the motive is religious obligation rather than relationship.The "Honeymoon" Myth: The group rejected the idea that zeal for God is a temporary phase, criticizing religious circles that expect new believers to eventually become "miserable" or "calm down."Identity in Righteousness: A significant portion of the discussion focused on the believer's identity as the "righteousness of God." They argued that one cannot be in Christ without being righteous, and that viewing oneself as a "sinner" leads to a cycle of striving and failure.The Mechanics of Submission The participants redefined submission, distinguishing it from blind obedience or bondage. Heart Posture: Submission was described as "surrendering control" and "giving up resistance." It is a choice to align one's heart with God’s Word, even when the flesh is unable to perform the requirement.Submission vs. Obedience: Stefani clarified that submission is a heart posture (e.g., "I love you, but I cannot stay in an abusive situation"), while obedience is the specific action led by the Holy Spirit following that submission.The Light Switch Analogy: Kevin noted that humans are inherently "portals" or "doorways" submitted to either light or darkness; there is no neutral ground.Overcoming Religious Trauma and Fear Several participants shared personal histories of breaking away from restrictive religious backgrounds (Catholic and Baptist). The Fear Factor: Fear was identified as a "red flag" indicating the influence of the enemy rather than God. The group noted that legalistic teachings often use fear of hell or rejection to manipulate behavior.Corporate Structure: Jon JJ expressed that while the "body of Christ" is essential, the "corporate church structure" can often be a source of religious nonsense and dependency. He emphasized the ability to survive and grow through direct intimacy with God and small, secret gatherings.The Altar Call Cycle: The group critiqued the traditional altar call as often being fueled by a fear of not being "good enough," leading believers to stay at the "foot of the cross" rather than moving into the reality of the resurrection.Practical Spiritual Growth Intimacy as New Life: The group compared the relationship with God to a marriage; without "behind closed doors" intimacy, growth is impossible. This intimacy produces "new life" naturally, without effort.The Refiner’s Fire: Heather used the imagery of a refiner to describe God’s work—burning off false beliefs and pride until He sees His own clear image reflected in the believer.Automatic Responses: Jon JJ shared that consistent meditation and intimacy lead to "new natural" reactions, such as instinctively praying for healing for others without having to consciously decide to do so.Key Scriptural References Ephesians 1:17-23: The revelation of Christ as the head and the church as the body (the "feet").John 15:5: The vine and the branches; doing nothing without Him.Galatians 5:19-21: The works of the flesh vs. the fruits of the Spirit.1 John 1:6-9: Walking in the light and the cleansing power of the blood.Hebrews 13:20-21: God making the believer complete in every good work.Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] The conversation centered on the transition from religious duty to a genuine relationship with Christ, emphasizing the distinction between striving in the flesh and resting in the Holy Spirit. The group explored themes of submission, identity, and the psychological barriers created by religious legalism. Core Topic: Relationship vs. Religion The group identified "religious duty" as a primary obstacle to spiritual growth. They argued that following Jesus is not about obeying laws through self-effort, but about a heart posture of submission that allows the Holy Spirit to work through the believer. Motive and Posture: Jon JJ noted that even spiritual disciplines (prayer, study) can become empty "escapes" if the motive is religious obligation rather than relationship.The "Honeymoon" Myth: The group rejected the idea that zeal for God is a temporary phase, criticizing religious circles that expect new believers to eventually become "miserable" or "calm down."Identity in Righteousness: A significant portion of the discussion focused on the believer's identity as the "righteousness of God." They argued that one cannot be in Christ without being righteous, and that viewing oneself as a "sinner" leads to a cycle of striving and failure.The Mechanics of Submission The participants redefined submission, distinguishing it from blind obedience or bondage. Heart Posture: Submission was described as "surrendering control" and "giving up resistance." It is a choice to align one's heart with God’s Word, even when the flesh is unable to perform the requirement.Submission vs. Obedience: Stefani clarified that submission is a heart posture (e.g., "I love you, but I cannot stay in an abusive situation"), while obedience is the specific action led by the Holy Spirit following that submission.The Light Switch Analogy: Kevin noted that humans are inherently "portals" or "doorways" submitted to either light or darkness; there is no neutral ground.Overcoming Religious Trauma and Fear Several participants shared personal histories of breaking away from restrictive religious backgrounds (Catholic and Baptist). The Fear Factor: Fear was identified as a "red flag" indicating the influence of the enemy rather than God. The group noted that legalistic teachings often use fear of hell or rejection to manipulate behavior.Corporate Structure: Jon JJ expressed that while the "body of Christ" is essential, the "corporate church structure" can often be a source of religious nonsense and dependency. He emphasized the ability to survive and grow through direct intimacy with God and small, secret gatherings.The Altar Call Cycle: The group critiqued the traditional altar call as often being fueled by a fear of not being "good enough," leading believers to stay at the "foot of the cross" rather than moving into the reality of the resurrection.Practical Spiritual Growth Intimacy as New Life: The group compared the relationship with God to a marriage; without "behind closed doors" intimacy, growth is impossible. This intimacy produces "new life" naturally, without effort.The Refiner’s Fire: Heather used the imagery of a refiner to describe God’s work—burning off false beliefs and pride until He sees His own clear image reflected in the believer.Automatic Responses: Jon JJ shared that consistent meditation and intimacy lead to "new natural" reactions, such as instinctively praying for healing for others without having to consciously decide to do so.Key Scriptural References Ephesians 1:17-23: The revelation of Christ as the head and the church as the body (the "feet").John 15:5: The vine and the branches; doing nothing without Him.Galatians 5:19-21: The works of the flesh vs. the fruits of the Spirit.1 John 1:6-9: Walking in the light and the cleansing power of the blood.Hebrews 13:20-21: God making the believer complete in every good work.Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] A worship song of thanksgiving to God for His work through Christ. Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] The conversation centered on the transition from religious duty to a genuine relationship with Christ, emphasizing the distinction between striving in the flesh and resting in the Holy Spirit. The group explored themes of submission, identity, and the psychological barriers created by religious legalism. Core Topic: Relationship vs. Religion The group identified "religious duty" as a primary obstacle to spiritual growth. They argued that following Jesus is not about obeying laws through self-effort, but about a heart posture of submission that allows the Holy Spirit to work through the believer. Motive and Posture: Jon JJ noted that even spiritual disciplines (prayer, study) can become empty "escapes" if the motive is religious obligation rather than relationship.The "Honeymoon" Myth: The group rejected the idea that zeal for God is a temporary phase, criticizing religious circles that expect new believers to eventually become "miserable" or "calm down."Identity in Righteousness: A significant portion of the discussion focused on the believer's identity as the "righteousness of God." They argued that one cannot be in Christ without being righteous, and that viewing oneself as a "sinner" leads to a cycle of striving and failure.The Mechanics of Submission The participants redefined submission, distinguishing it from blind obedience or bondage. Heart Posture: Submission was described as "surrendering control" and "giving up resistance." It is a choice to align one's heart with God’s Word, even when the flesh is unable to perform the requirement.Submission vs. Obedience: Stefani clarified that submission is a heart posture (e.g., "I love you, but I cannot stay in an abusive situation"), while obedience is the specific action led by the Holy Spirit following that submission.The Light Switch Analogy: Kevin noted that humans are inherently "portals" or "doorways" submitted to either light or darkness; there is no neutral ground.Overcoming Religious Trauma and Fear Several participants shared personal histories of breaking away from restrictive religious backgrounds (Catholic and Baptist). The Fear Factor: Fear was identified as a "red flag" indicating the influence of the enemy rather than God. The group noted that legalistic teachings often use fear of hell or rejection to manipulate behavior.Corporate Structure: Jon JJ expressed that while the "body of Christ" is essential, the "corporate church structure" can often be a source of religious nonsense and dependency. He emphasized the ability to survive and grow through direct intimacy with God and small, secret gatherings.The Altar Call Cycle: The group critiqued the traditional altar call as often being fueled by a fear of not being "good enough," leading believers to stay at the "foot of the cross" rather than moving into the reality of the resurrection.Practical Spiritual Growth Intimacy as New Life: The group compared the relationship with God to a marriage; without "behind closed doors" intimacy, growth is impossible. This intimacy produces "new life" naturally, without effort.The Refiner’s Fire: Heather used the imagery of a refiner to describe God’s work—burning off false beliefs and pride until He sees His own clear image reflected in the believer.Automatic Responses: Jon JJ shared that consistent meditation and intimacy lead to "new natural" reactions, such as instinctively praying for healing for others without having to consciously decide to do so.Key Scriptural References Ephesians 1:17-23: The revelation of Christ as the head and the church as the body (the "feet").John 15:5: The vine and the branches; doing nothing without Him.Galatians 5:19-21: The works of the flesh vs. the fruits of the Spirit.1 John 1:6-9: Walking in the light and the cleansing power of the blood.Hebrews 13:20-21: God making the believer complete in every good work.Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] The conversation centered on the power of authenticity, the weight of spoken words, and the necessity of understanding the biblical covenant. The group discussed moving beyond "religious masks" toward a genuine relationship with God, emphasizing that spiritual growth often occurs "little by little" rather than through instant transformation. Core Highlights Authenticity in Witnessing: The group emphasized that being honest about personal struggles—such as past addictions or emotional battles—is more effective for witnessing than projecting a "perfect" Christian image. One participant shared how admitting their history with pornography helped bridge a gap with a skeptical coworker.The Power of the Tongue: Drawing from James 5, the discussion highlighted that the tongue acts as a "rudder" for the body. They argued that the church often focuses on correcting outward actions (iniquity) while ignoring the speech that drives those actions.Covenant vs. Contract: A major theme was the distinction between a contract and a covenant. The group posited that faith is a byproduct of understanding God’s unbreakable blood covenant. When the covenant is understood, faith becomes a simple recognition of what has already been provided through Jesus.The Process of Healing: Participants shared varied experiences with healing, noting that while instant miracles occur (often for unbelievers as a sign), Christians frequently "walk out" their healing through a process of renewing the mind and resisting symptoms as "temptations to doubt."Nuance & Friction Religious Legalism: There was significant friction regarding "religious" environments where people wear masks or judge others for outward habits (like smoking) without addressing the heart.Gender Roles & Society: The group discussed the "demonic" nature of modern independence narratives, contrasting "boss babe" culture with their interpretation of biblical womanhood and the importance of spiritual leadership within marriage.The "Unknown": A participant noted that fear of the unknown is rooted in a lack of control. They argued that spiritual peace comes from being comfortable in the unknown by trusting in God's character.Action Items Bible Gift: Purchase a modern translation (NLT) for a coworker who is currently struggling to understand an older version KJV of the Bible.Spiritual Discipline: Focus on replacing personal opinions with scriptural truth to "soften the heart" through the "oil of the Spirit."Relationship Focus: Pray for deeper intimacy in marriage as a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Church.Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] We have been made the righteousness of God, and this is what the song is about. Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] The conversation centered on the power of authenticity, the weight of spoken words, and the necessity of understanding the biblical covenant. The group discussed moving beyond "religious masks" toward a genuine relationship with God, emphasizing that spiritual growth often occurs "little by little" rather than through instant transformation. Core Highlights Authenticity in Witnessing: The group emphasized that being honest about personal struggles—such as past addictions or emotional battles—is more effective for witnessing than projecting a "perfect" Christian image. One participant shared how admitting their history with pornography helped bridge a gap with a skeptical coworker.The Power of the Tongue: Drawing from James 5, the discussion highlighted that the tongue acts as a "rudder" for the body. They argued that the church often focuses on correcting outward actions (iniquity) while ignoring the speech that drives those actions.Covenant vs. Contract: A major theme was the distinction between a contract and a covenant. The group posited that faith is a byproduct of understanding God’s unbreakable blood covenant. When the covenant is understood, faith becomes a simple recognition of what has already been provided through Jesus.The Process of Healing: Participants shared varied experiences with healing, noting that while instant miracles occur (often for unbelievers as a sign), Christians frequently "walk out" their healing through a process of renewing the mind and resisting symptoms as "temptations to doubt."Nuance & Friction Religious Legalism: There was significant friction regarding "religious" environments where people wear masks or judge others for outward habits (like smoking) without addressing the heart.Gender Roles & Society: The group discussed the "demonic" nature of modern independence narratives, contrasting "boss babe" culture with their interpretation of biblical womanhood and the importance of spiritual leadership within marriage.The "Unknown": A participant noted that fear of the unknown is rooted in a lack of control. They argued that spiritual peace comes from being comfortable in the unknown by trusting in God's character.Action Items Bible Gift: Purchase a modern translation (NLT) for a coworker who is currently struggling to understand an older version KJV of the Bible.Spiritual Discipline: Focus on replacing personal opinions with scriptural truth to "soften the heart" through the "oil of the Spirit."Relationship Focus: Pray for deeper intimacy in marriage as a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Church.Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] Worship music, written from the inspiration of James 3! Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] The conversation centered on the power of authenticity, the weight of spoken words, and the necessity of understanding the biblical covenant. The group discussed moving beyond "religious masks" toward a genuine relationship with God, emphasizing that spiritual growth often occurs "little by little" rather than through instant transformation. Core Highlights Authenticity in Witnessing: The group emphasized that being honest about personal struggles—such as past addictions or emotional battles—is more effective for witnessing than projecting a "perfect" Christian image. One participant shared how admitting their history with pornography helped bridge a gap with a skeptical coworker.The Power of the Tongue: Drawing from James 5, the discussion highlighted that the tongue acts as a "rudder" for the body. They argued that the church often focuses on correcting outward actions (iniquity) while ignoring the speech that drives those actions.Covenant vs. Contract: A major theme was the distinction between a contract and a covenant. The group posited that faith is a byproduct of understanding God’s unbreakable blood covenant. When the covenant is understood, faith becomes a simple recognition of what has already been provided through Jesus.The Process of Healing: Participants shared varied experiences with healing, noting that while instant miracles occur (often for unbelievers as a sign), Christians frequently "walk out" their healing through a process of renewing the mind and resisting symptoms as "temptations to doubt."Nuance & Friction Religious Legalism: There was significant friction regarding "religious" environments where people wear masks or judge others for outward habits (like smoking) without addressing the heart.Gender Roles & Society: The group discussed the "demonic" nature of modern independence narratives, contrasting "boss babe" culture with their interpretation of biblical womanhood and the importance of spiritual leadership within marriage.The "Unknown": A participant noted that fear of the unknown is rooted in a lack of control. They argued that spiritual peace comes from being comfortable in the unknown by trusting in God's character.Action Items Bible Gift: Purchase a modern translation (NLT) for a coworker who is currently struggling to understand an older version KJV of the Bible.Spiritual Discipline: Focus on replacing personal opinions with scriptural truth to "soften the heart" through the "oil of the Spirit."Relationship Focus: Pray for deeper intimacy in marriage as a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Church.Support the show [email protected]

Email us: [email protected] Highlights Covenant Confidence vs. Self-Effort: True confidence (parrhesia) is defined as a boldness to speak without fear of censorship. It is a byproduct of understanding God’s "covenant love." The group contrasted this with "fleshly" confidence, which is rooted in self-righteousness and willpower, both of which eventually fail.The Nature of the Flesh: The "flesh" was redefined not just as sinful behavior, but as the desire to trust in oneself ("I got this"). The works of the flesh (adultery, gossip, etc.) are seen as the fruit of wrong believing rather than the root problem.Walking in the Light: Using the analogy of a light switch, the group discussed how darkness (sin and shame) is naturally displaced by light (Christ). However, this requires intentional focus, as believers can "leak" or drift away from this understanding if they do not consciously remain in the Word and fellowship.The Power of Identity: A central theme was identifying as "the righteousness of God in Christ" even in the immediate aftermath of a failure. By declaring this identity in the moment of shame, the dominion of sin is broken because the focus shifts from the failure to the Savior. Key Insights & Nuance The "Persistent Widow" Strategy: Heather highlighted the widow in Luke 18 as being "obnoxiously confident" in her rights. This was framed as a model for believers to boldly claim their covenant rights to justice and grace.Fellowship as a Lampstand: Chris noted that a "lit" spirit (born again) is meant to be placed on a lampstand (the church). Isolating oneself is equivalent to putting a bushel over the light, which hinders the ability to walk in the light as described in 1 John.The "Current" of Rest: Chris shared an analogy of a swimmer winning a race by laboring to get into a central ocean current. Similarly, spiritual victory comes from the "labor" of entering God's rest through prayer and the Word, allowing His power to carry the individual.Empathy of the High Priest: The group discussed Jesus' humanity, noting that His ability to empathize with human temptation (Hebrews 4:15) provides the basis for coming boldly to the throne of grace without fear of condemnation. Nuance & Friction The Trap of Accountability: Kevin shared that traditional accountability partners and "penance-based" restoration often fail because they focus on behavior and external pressure rather than a heart change. He argued that these methods often reinforce the cycle of shame rather than breaking it.Self-Righteousness as the Greatest Risk: Jon identified self-righteousness as the most dangerous sin because it leads to dismissing Christ’s work entirely. The group agreed that the "flickering light" of the soul (mind/emotions) is normal, but the spirit remains perfectly lit. Actionable Items Read Victorious Emotions by Wendy Backlund: Kevin highlighted a quote from this book regarding having more faith in Jesus' ability to make one righteous than in Adam's ability to make one a sinner.Practice "Covenant Remembrance": Use communion and daily declarations of biblical promises to prevent the "leaking" of spiritual confidence.Shift Prayer from Asking to Thanking: Jon suggested that concrete results come from the prayer of thanksgiving—thanking God for the promise as if it is already possessed rather than begging for it.Support the show [email protected]