Waking up to Grace Ministries

Victorious Faith: 1 John 5 Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/victorious-faith-1-john-5/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Discover the liberating truth that obedience to God is not a burdensome mandate but a victory march through the challenges of life. Join me, your host, for an inspiring journey into the final chapter of John's First Epistle, where we unpack the essence of faith and the power of love for God. Embrace the testimony of the Spirit, the water, and the blood, as we navigate their unified witness to the truth of Jesus Christ, and let's find solace in the assurance that our belief in the Son secures eternal life. We explore the protective power bestowed upon the children of God, shielding them from perpetual sinning and the evil one's clutches. Reflecting upon early Christian unity, we recount Jonah's hesitance to embrace his mission to the Gentiles, drawing parallels to the importance of love among believers today. This episode promises to shed light on the interplay of God's commandments and the concept of free will, a thought-provoking subject for any faithful listener. Let this episode be the start of your day, anchored in the truth of who you are in Christ, as we conclude our study of First John with a heartening reminder of your sacred spiritual identity. Be encouraged by the unwavering love, forgiveness, and grace that define your journey in faith. As we wrap up our series with an affirmation of life found solely in Christ, carry these truths with you, standing firm against any opposing views, with the wisdom of God resting in your heart.

Embracing Divine Love: 1 John 4 Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/embracing-divine-love-1-john-4/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a profound exploration of faith and spirituality as we dissect the sublime messages within 1 John chapter four. Our in-depth journey through scripture will arm you with a deeper understanding of God's Word, and the role the Holy Spirit plays in guiding our lives. We weave together the historical context of the Apostle John's challenges with contemporary applications, ensuring your spiritual foundation is not only knowledgeable but unshakeably strong. Strap yourself in for a fascinating voyage back to the tale of Cain and Abel, where we unravel the threads of sin and redemption, and highlight the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus. Through heartfelt discussions, we celebrate the support of family in ministry and the transformative power of new life in Christ. Our conversation promises to leave you with a renewed sense of purpose, as we ponder love's integral nature in our walk with God and the confidence we can place in His divine embrace. As we conclude this episode, I extend a heartfelt invitation for you to incorporate the divine love you've encountered into your daily interactions. Let the truths of 1 John guide you toward a life of freedom and wholeness under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Carry these insights with you until we convene again, and may they serve as a beacon of hope and assurance in your spiritual journey.

Our Divine Identity: 1 John 3 Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/our-divine-identity-1-john-3/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a transformative exploration with us as we navigate the depths of 1 John 3, unveiling the distinct identity bestowed upon us as believers and the steadfast assurances of faith. Discover the essence of being God's children and how this shapes our understanding of righteousness, sin, and love through the lens of the New Testament. This episode will not only reinforce your spiritual foundations but also inspire a profound appreciation for the apostolic teachings that unite the past with our present and future in God's grand narrative. As we sift through the nuances of biblical hope and the apostolic era, you'll gain a fresh perspective on living in alignment with God's commandments. The transition from Old to New Covenant brings a revelation of grace that transforms our relationship with the Creator, inviting us into a familial bond as His children. Our dialogue will guide you through the evidence of the Spirit's presence in our lives and the ways in which we manifest Christ's love, offering solace and strength as you walk the path of faith. Concluding with a heartfelt discussion on building trust amidst life's adversities, we confront the skepticism born from the world's suffering and injustice. We assert the pivotal role of trust in God's goodness and love, instilling hope that resonates beyond our podcast into the daily lives of our listeners. Encouraged by your engagement, we eagerly anticipate connecting with you through our website and social media as we continue to foster a supportive community of believers, eager to uplift each other in our coll

Propitiation for our Sins: 1 John 2 Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/the-propitiation-for-our-sins-1-john-2/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a transformative journey through the heart of faith and scripture as we grapple with the essence of Jesus' commandments and the stark contrast between love for the world and love for the Father. This episode promises to elucidate the complex interplay between the Old and New Covenants as outlined in 1 John chapter 2. We delve into the profound theological implications for Christians, both in early history and in today's world, and invite you to reflect on the profound significance of grace over law in the life of a believer. As we navigate the spiritual terrain of obedience and faith, we uncover the rich symbolism of the temple curtain's tear and the implications for the sacrificial system's end. This episode addresses the challenges faced by the early Christian communities, including the ideological battles and the complexities of upholding Jesus' example. The path of walking as Jesus walked is not about adherence to commandments but embracing a life steeped in dependence on God, a lesson both ancient and utterly relevant to our contemporary quest for a meaningful Christian experience. Finally, the episode crescendos with an exploration of the early church's resilience in the face of the Antichrist's emergence and John's empowering message to his spiritual descendants. We cap off with eager anticipation for our next foray into the depths of John's epistle. It's more than a study; it's an invitation to grow spiritually and gain a deeper understanding of the abiding truth that has shaped Christian doctrine through the ages. Join us for an episode that's as enlightening as it is heartfelt, and let's continue to expand our biblical knowledge together.

The Light of Mankind: 1 John 1 Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/out-of-the-dark-into-the-light-1-john-1/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Are you prepared to peel back the layers of the First Epistle of John with Melissa and me? We're setting the scene with a rich historical backdrop of early church persecution and the profound transition from law-based righteousness to the embrace of grace. Together, we explore the profound mysteries and messages within the first chapter of this pivotal New Testament letter. As we navigate the complexities of apostolic authority, fellowship, and the joy of sharing the gospel message, our conversation illuminates the tangible experience of Jesus Christ and the essential role of proclamation in the life of the believers. Melissa and I candidly tackle the intricate issues of sin, confession, and the seismic cultural shifts that the early Christians faced. The passage from adherence to the law to the liberation of grace wasn't merely theological but deeply personal and challenging. We dissect the first-century Jewish audience's perspective on John's teaching, while contemplating the transformative implications of 1 John 1:9. Our discussion underscores the unwavering resolve of the early church to persevere through persecution and maintain steadfast fellowship with God and one another. In wrapping up our study of the first chapter of the epistle, we leave no stone unturned, ensuring that you, our listeners, are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the text. As we set the stage for our continued exploration into the subsequent chapters, we invite you to engage with us, bringing your reflections and inquiries to the forefront of our next episode. Join us on this enlightening journey, as we forge a deeper connection with the timeless wisdom of the First Epistle of John.

James: The Gospel Before the Cross. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/james-the-gospel-before-the-cross/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Discover the profound insights of James's letter and its old covenant roots as we explore how this context reshapes our application of its timeless wisdom. Our newest episode of Waking Up to Grace delves into the possibility that James penned his epistle during the time of Jesus's earthly ministry, framing it within the old covenant and setting the stage for a transformative understanding of its messages. We take you on a journey through the pivotal transitional period of Acts 19, weighing the implications of old covenant faith in light of Christ's completed work and the indwelling Holy Spirit post-Pentecost that revitalizes our Christian walk today. The "crown of life" reveals its scriptural depth as we connect its threads throughout the Bible, casting new light on the reward for steadfast faith. We contemplate the humility displayed by the heavenly host, their crowns laid at the Lord's feet, and what that means for us, as believers, striving for the same faithfulness. Grappling with the interplay of faith and works, we revisit the Shema's profound impact on Jewish devotion and its reflection in James's teachings. The discussion navigates the complex balance between the ancient laws and Jesus's new commandments on humility and leadership, providing a nuanced look at the internal struggles Paul shares in his letters. Concluding our session, we turn to James's poignant words to the Israelites, interpreting his call for humility and grace through the lens of an audience not yet introduced to the new covenant through Christ's sacrifice. We dissect the historical context of the term "church," the role of the "righteous person," and the echoes of Jesus's rebukes to the Pharisees found within James's letter. Our episode aims not only to enlighten but also to reaffirm our identity as part of the new creation and our vital participation in the ministry of reconciliation. Join us for this deeply enlightening discussion that promises to enrich your spiritual perspective and daily walk with God.

Faith without Works is Dead: An Introduction to James. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/faith-without-works-is-dead-an-introduction-to-james/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Prepare to have your thoughts challenged as we unpack the enigmatic letter of James, a text that both perplexes and enlightens. Delving into the roots of its controversies, we navigate the waters of authorship and its almost exclusion from the canon, while also examining the letter's stark contrast with Paul's teachings on faith and works. Discover why this pivotal document, which focuses on the "law of liberty" and addresses the scattered 12 tribes, has been a cornerstone for theological debate throughout the centuries. It takes a robust conversation to unravel the complexities of the early church's dynamics, especially at the pivotal Council of Jerusalem. Join us to explore the intricate dance between the fledgling Christian faith and deep-seated Jewish traditions during the integration of Gentile believers. We scrutinize the figure of James—was he a strict legalist or are we missing the context of his writing? Finally, we bridge the teachings of James with those of Jesus, showcasing their surprising alignment on law based faith and righteousness. From embracing trials with joy to the perils of wealth, James's words echo the core messages of Jesus' Sermon on the mount in Mathew 5-7. This episode invites you to challenge what you have been told about the letter of James and hear insight that may help you to understand his words more clearly from another perspective.

Israel is no longer God's holy nation. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/will-the-true-israel-please-stand-up/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Embark on a theological odyssey as we unravel the Apostle Paul's profound insights into 'true Israel' within Romans 9-11. Our exploration reveals the intricacies of spiritual heritage, distinguishing between the lineage of Israel's flesh and the divine election of God's spiritual Israel. With a careful examination of scripture, we unearth the historical and eternal implications of Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises, casting new light on the anticipated second coming and the significant events of 70 AD. Venturing further, we draw compelling parallels between Old Testament figures and Christ, redefining Jewish identity through the transformative lens of the New Covenant. Our discussion navigates through the metaphorical landscape where Jesus emerges as the true vine, inviting listeners to contemplate the rich tapestry of prophecy and its fulfillment. This episode challenges traditional interpretations, offering a fresh perspective on the continuity of spiritual lineage and the pivotal role Jesus plays in this divine narrative. As we conclude our journey, we reflect on the historical and theological implications of the Antichrist, grappling with the complexities that surround the term and its historical context. The Church emerges as the embodiment of True Israel, a beacon of hope and salvation that transcends temporal boundaries. Join us as we celebrate the power inherent in the name of Yeshua, embracing the transformative work of Jesus and the eternal hope that His name signifies for believers around the world.

Transformed by Grace: Embracing a New Heart and Spirit. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/transformed-by-grace-embracing-a-new-heart-and-spirit/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Experience the radical transformation that grace brings to a believer's life as we unravel the beauty of a new heart and spirit, bestowed by God's generous hand, you'll feel the chains of your old self fall away. Our conversation dives deep into Ezekiel's prophecy of a spiritual heart transplant, revealing how this divine change softens our nature and aligns us with God's will. We unpack the truth that, though we may falter, our essence as God's new creation reigns supreme, offering a peace that is simply beyond comprehension. We then cast light on the liberating power of absolute forgiveness, where God's choice to erase our sins exemplifies His grace in its purest form. We reflect on the Apostle Paul's teachings of freedom in Christ, where our past is not merely forgotten but obliterated, leaving us with a slate forever clean by God's mercy, not our merit. This chapter beckons you to embrace the fullness of forgiveness, to step out from the shadow of constant repentance into the light of acknowledgment that our sins are forever separated from us. Wrapping up our heartfelt exchange, we underscore the importance of prayer in fostering spiritual growth. We explore the spiritual blindness that afflicts the unenlightened mind and how prayer can be a beacon, guiding them towards the truth. As we close, we invite you to join us in this life of grace, a daily journey of renewal that molds our minds and hearts to mirror the truth of God's Word, transforming our every step into a testament of His unending love and grace.

Is Water Baptism Necessary for Salvation? Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/is-water-baptism-necessary-for-salvation/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Is Water Baptism Necessary for Salvation? It is a common question among Christians and a debate among many who are considered to be leaders. Is it necessary to be baptized in water to be saved? We attend often ceremonies where infants and children are baptized in water and many questions are raised. What does the bible tell us about baptism? In this video we will explore the truth about baptism in hopes that you will be able to settle this issue and have peace in Christ. Below are a few of the passages we cover on the topic as we look at what baptism is, what it means, and why it is such a blessing to understand. John 1:30 NET “This is the one about whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who is greater than I am, because he existed before me.’ 1:31 I did not recognize him, but I came baptizing with water so that he could be revealed to Israel.” Mathew 3:11 NIV “I baptize you with water, for repentance, but the one coming after me is more powerful than I am—I am not worthy to carry his sandals! He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Ephesians 4:4 NET “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you too were called to the one hope of your calling, 4:5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 4:6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

True Baptism: No water required. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/true-baptism-no-water-required/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Why Does Salvation by Faith Alone Matter? The doctrine of sola fide asserts that God’s pardon for guilty sinners is granted to and received through faith alone, excluding all works and deeds. Many of us have heard the phrase, but do not realize why it is such an important scriptural doctrine, especially when it comes to celebrations such as baptism with water, that institutions use to set the stage for all the other "necessary works" we must do to maintain this new found fellowship with our Lord. Listen in and see the mighty blessing we receive with a true baptism of the Spirit.

Forgiveness Explored, Sin's Bonds Broken Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/forgiveness-explored-sins-bonds-broken/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Prepare to have your understanding of forgiveness and repentance reshaped as we tackle the provocative belief that Christians should continually seek forgiveness from God. With our insightful guest, we dissect the true essence of 1 John 1:9, scrutinizing the conventional requirement for constant penitence and bringing to light the Apostle John's emphasis on acknowledging sin over repetitive pleas for mercy. This episode promises a transformative look at confession through the lens of grace received at the cross, challenging the listener to re-evaluate the role of forgiveness in their spiritual walk. We then embark on a journey to redefine repentance, shifting from the traditional perception of sorrowful atonement to a liberating call for a change of mind. Our conversation traverses ancient Jewish customs to the revolutionary teachings of Jesus, illuminating how this change signifies a move from strict adherence to the law towards a life of grace and truth. Delving into the implications this has for believers today, we underscore the importance of renewing our minds to maintain spiritual vibrancy and question the qualifications necessary to teach such vital truths. As the narrative unfolds, we reflect on the profound symbolism of the torn temple curtain, contemplating the open access to the divine it heralds for all of us. We scrutinize how misinterpretations of Christ's identity can weigh down believers with unwarranted guilt, obscuring the magnificence of Jesus's sacrifice. Closing with a call to embrace our new identity free from the shackles of sin, we invite you to join us for a profound reexamination of what it truly means to worship in spirit and truth, celebrating the grace and freedom we have in Christ.

Jesus already came back. Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/jesus-already-came-back/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. In today's podcast I discuss 101 reasons why the second coming prophecies were already fulfilled in the first century. Specifically in the 70 A.D. destruction of Jerusalem. The law was abolished and vanished forever, we are living in the new age of the new covenant. See our website episodes page for the full list of passages of which we cover over 60 in this episode...

What is New Covenant Teaching? Episode Notes: https://wakinguptograce.com/what-is-new-covenant-teaching/ Celebrating and Exploring the finished work of our Lord, Jesus Christ. The Waking up to Grace Podcast. Most Christians have heard the words new covenant and even seen churches with the name. But what is new covenant teaching? In order to understand this topic we need understand things like what the new covenant was, when exactly it began, why it began, and how it applies to Christians today. Do you want a better understanding of this amazing historical event?