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Green pastures

Green pastures

By John Burkett

An original baptist podcast focused on the Glory of Christ
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God's sovereignty, Great doctrines of the bible series

Green pastures Apr 19, 2021

00:00
01:02:23
groanings of the soul

groanings of the soul

there are times when the pain of life, drives us to a place of perpetual tears, sleepless nights and leaves us with a soul that refuses to be comforted. In these moments we are often at a loss for words. we find it hard to express how we feel, and we simply don't know what to say under such weight of sorrow. it is in these moments, that the soul, which has been touched by grace, does something truly amazing, something profoundly spiritual..... it groans. though our minds are clouded, and are heart feels dark, our redeemed souls know exactly where to go and what to do. in this message we examine this spiritual experience and what it means for us.

Mar 23, 202345:44
building a godly home: a godly childhood

building a godly home: a godly childhood

being young is so exciting! things are new, there is so much to learn and do, and many friends to be made! with so much going on in the life of a young person, it is easy to miss out on one of life's greatest opportunities, and spend a great season of life on emptiness. there are many attributes which define us, strong, smart, athletic etc. however if we are to be known by anything, let godliness be your crowning attribute. godliness is profitable and brings great glory to the one who created you. so what does godliness in childhood look like? in this message we answer that question and examine just how important this attribute is.

Dec 19, 202245:51
building a godly home: God's plan for childhood

building a godly home: God's plan for childhood

in this message, we take the time to explain to children that God has a plan for their lives now. while they live in the home with their parents, God's plan is for them to develop the necessary traits to live godly in a dark world. part of God's plan for childhood is for children to bring honor to the ones over them, and we see this is accomplished through obedience. don't wait to see God's plan, when you can fulfil it now 

Dec 12, 202247:02
Building a godly home: guarding your child's heart

Building a godly home: guarding your child's heart

The people and things we allow into our lives, impact our children. Part of our responsibility as parents is to garrison their hearts. In this message we discuss the importance of this endeavor, how to accomplish it, and the ultimate goal of shaping children who can shape the world.

Dec 09, 202246:07
Building a Godly home: imitating the fatherhood of God

Building a Godly home: imitating the fatherhood of God

the best example we have of what a godly parent looks like, is God himself. God is our father, and deals with us as children. as we consider the what it means to be a godly parent, we examine what it truly means to bring up children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. in this message we work through eight points to achieving this goal. 1. being the example. 2. calling them near. 3. clear consistent teaching of Christ. 4.encouragement. 5. clear consistent teaching on sin. 6. discipline in love 7.imitating the attributes of God towards our children. 8. the dangers of being overbearing.

Nov 28, 202259:35
Building a godly home: Christ centered parenting

Building a godly home: Christ centered parenting

Parenting is hard work! there are many difficulties that come with shaping the hearts and minds, of sinners who bear the image of their parents. how we approach those difficulties, will have an impact on the outcome the manner of people our children become. in this message we examine the importance of engaging our children in a Christ centered way. 

Nov 25, 202245:47
building a godly home: Pitfalls in marriage

building a godly home: Pitfalls in marriage

There are numerous traps and pitfalls, which a marriage can fall into. these pitfalls can spell disaster for the health of a marriage if they aren't recognized and avoided. in this message we examine what these pitfalls are and how they impact our lives.

Nov 25, 202259:31
Building a godly home: husbands and navigating conflict

Building a godly home: husbands and navigating conflict

God designed the husband to be the leader of the home, and therefore men must understand the details of the role God has given them. in this message, we take a deeper look at those responsibilities and also how to navigate the conflict that often arises from to sinners interacting with each other.

Nov 25, 202201:05:10
Building a Godly home: The Christ like husband

Building a Godly home: The Christ like husband

in the book of Ephesians Paul makes a rich comparison between the husband and Christ as married to His bride the church. this comparison is filled with rich word pictures which are used to illustrate the function of the husband when fulfilled properly and the great benefit that is gain. in this message we see how Christ willing sacrifice gives his bride both safety and security, so that she can stand before him confident. we see how when we willing sacrifice those things precious to us for the sake of our wives, it in like manner provides things which only enrich the marriage. 

Nov 11, 202201:06:60
Building a Godly home: husbands

Building a Godly home: husbands

God has given husbands a sacred role in the home, that carries much responsibility. having much responsibility means that he stands accountable to God for the lives of those under his care. he is to be the leader which leads the way in building the home to Gods standards. in this episode we examine the role of the husband and the responsibility that comes with it.

Nov 11, 202254:46
Building a Godly home: a Godly wife

Building a Godly home: a Godly wife

in order to establish a Godly home, it is essential for each part to understand the roles God gives them to fulfill. in this message we continue our look at the home giving special attention to the role that a godly woman plays in establishing the home according to Gods pattern.

Nov 11, 202201:00:03
Building a Godly home

Building a Godly home

Text Prov 14:1

The Home was the First institution God created in the world and therefore is of supreme importance. As we construct this home, it is vital for us to realize that our actions and inactions will have an effect, either positive or negative. if we are to have a positive impact we must understand the proper function of the home, its various roles, and the pitfalls therein. in this message we being a deep look into how God designed the home. 


Nov 11, 202201:00:11
Are you Happy?

Are you Happy?

Text Ps 16

Happiness is something we all strive to be, and yet there is much misunderstanding as to what it actually is. when we view what scripture teaches us about the state of being happy, we get a better view than the world gives and this allows us to truly achieve lasting happiness.

Nov 11, 202201:07:29
3 simple steps

3 simple steps

if you had one hour left with you children before you left to never return, what would you tell them. you would probably start with how much you love them and then move to explaining the important things. As that hour began to run out, you would try to cover a vast amount of information in a short amount of time using a bullet point approach. in much the same way paul at the end of 1 Thessalonians 5 gives some very needful instruction to cover different aspects of a Christians life. each area he covers can be divided into 3 simple steps or actions. listen as we explore the 3 steps to benefit the minsity, 3 types of troubled believers and 3 actions to help, 3 actions to worship, and 3 actions in receiving God's word. 

Feb 21, 202201:04:41
what the resurrection means for us today

what the resurrection means for us today

In Chapter four of 1 Thessalonians, paul brings to mind the hope we have in the future return of Christ. many view this event as yet far in the future and therefore it has no immediate impact on their lives. in chapter 5 however paul brings home the reality that the resurrection is an event which should alter the way our daily lives are played out. 

Feb 21, 202259:45
Living in hope

Living in hope

death is a tragedy which often leaves us with immense pain. knowing that the moment someone dies they are forever gone in this life. there is no bringing them back. the lines of fellowship are broken and can never be restored. the harsh reality of death has crippled the lives of many due to the pain it brings. in 1 Thessalonians 4 God tells us that he doesn't want us to be ignorant of death because such ignorance will inevitably lead to overwhelming sorrow. in this message we examine this amazing passage. we see there is a time and place for sorrow, things people are ignorant of concerning death, the order and manner of the resurrection and the power this knowledge brings to the Child of God living in hope.

Feb 07, 202201:04:31
Growing up in Church

Growing up in Church

For many in America, church has always played some role in their lives. they we made to attend from a young age, and have maintained that attendance throughout their lives. while they may have grown up in church from a physical stand point, spiritually many have remained babes in Christ. Spiritual immaturity is a problem that Paul didn't take lightly. He recognized that such a state, placed these immature believers in at risk of being overthrown entirely or at a minimum never really enjoying the fulness of Christ. recognizing that the church at Thessaloniki was an at risk congregation Paul dispatched a God called minister to establish them in faith and comfort them in their trials. in this message we examine the character traits of spiritual immaturity, the danger it poses,  and Gods design for spiritual growth.

Jan 26, 202201:00:56
true discipleship

true discipleship

After Paul’s experience in Thessaloniki, where he was motivated by grace to fulfill his mission, by preaching a powerful message through a unique method. Paul show cased his heart for the church by writing to them. In this letter he encourages the church for their faithfulness to a life of discipleship and attempts to foster that discipleship through instructions in grace.

In this first chapter we see:

His writing is grounded in the covenant of grace

His attitude of gratitude for the church, who had encouraged him by their vibrant faith.

His heart of prayer for them

The trinity of characteristics that make up true discipleship

That election is for babes in Christ and not just mature adults

When we truly serve the Lord we will gain a reputation that reflects that.

Jan 25, 202201:00:53
A Ministry that moves the world.

A Ministry that moves the world.

Paul, a Jew raised in tarsus and educated in Jerusalem, finds himself some 900 miles away from his home city. Why was he there and how did the events that led up to this point change his life into something completely different than it was before? by examining this passage in the book of Acts, we see Paul's motive for ministry, his superior message, and his method of delivery that message. by taking a deep look at these points we come to see how Paul went from a man who turned houses upside down, to a man who turned the world of men upside down.

Jan 25, 202255:33
being part of the body of Christ

being part of the body of Christ

What is the purpose of Church? what part do I play in fulfilling that purpose? these are just some of the questions we examine in this message on our place in the body of Christ

Oct 29, 202101:00:43
what is church part 2

what is church part 2

in this message we continue to examine the make up of the local church

Oct 29, 202139:56
what is Church?

what is Church?

Before Christ returned to His father He established something which would endure the ages. it's foundation being laid on himself as the chief cornerstone and the wall erected with lively stone. this building is truly spectacular, yet we need to understand what a true representation of the church looks like. in this message we examine, what it means to be the church of Christ.

Oct 29, 202152:31
keeping score

keeping score

Keeping score

It is human nature to keep a record of wrongs in our back pockets so we can pull them out during moments of conflict. According to research, relationships that use this tactic in conflict usually don’t last long.

In scripture though with find a higher way, which is so more profitable. The biblical concept of forgiveness or a sending away the offense rather than the offender, leads to peace. When we forgive, we are blessed to have a deeper relationship with others but more importantly, with God. When we choose bitterness no only are we deepening conflict but we are counting the blood of Christ as worthless.

So are we writing a record book of offense or developing a testimony of mercy?

Oct 28, 202156:49
witnesses of Grace

witnesses of Grace

what does it mean to be a witness of Grace and what should our response be to being one?

Oct 28, 202151:16
liberty in Christ

liberty in Christ

it is easy for a believer to fall into the bondage of law service. in this message we examine our liberty in Christ

Oct 28, 202159:26
Freewill, fact or fiction?

Freewill, fact or fiction?

Some hold that man is entirely free in his will and that choices are made in a vacuum. others believe there is no freewill and that our choices are made for us by an external force. the topic of freewill is one that has engaged the debate platform across the centuries and sparked the interest of many. in this message we wxamine what the Bible has to say about our will's and what that means for us.

Aug 03, 202101:04:09
Are we too busy?

Are we too busy?

Life can feel like a rat race, where we feel pulled in several directions. having our lives pile up with all the things which need to be done, can often distract us from what is really important. the story of Mary and Martha gives us an excellent example of how being too bust can affect our spiritual state as well as those around us.

Jul 31, 202101:04:36
seeing Jesus only

seeing Jesus only

the mount of transfiguration is a key moment in the life of Christ. in this moment the deity of Christ shines through His human flesh, and two great figures from the past appear with him. as powerful as these things are, the moment that everything fades away and the eyes of the disciples see Jesus only as he whispers peace to them, is probably the greatest. have you come to the place where you see Jesus only?

Jul 24, 202101:00:56
a song of salvation.

a song of salvation.

David, known as the sweet psalmist of Israel, had a wonderful habit. when God would deliver him, david would take the time to compose a song to commemorate the event. he would spend his time rejoicing in Gods deliverance. in this message we examine one of these songs and contemplate its relevance to us today.


Jul 24, 202101:03:34
the great mystery, great doctrines series

the great mystery, great doctrines series

there are things in scripture the human mind has a difficult time grasping. these are known as mysteries. one of these mysteries is that God became flesh and lived among us. in this message we examine what the scripture says about this great truth.

Jul 24, 202101:00:42
prioritizing prayer

prioritizing prayer

nothing exposes the health of our churches and our own spiritual state, like the question. how's your prayer life? prayer is such a blessing, yet it is often neglected. as we examine the scripture and Baptist history, it becomes clear that prayer changes things. in this message we see the importance of prioritizing prayer.

Jul 24, 202101:02:55
Receiving Reproof

Receiving Reproof

you do you and i will do me, sound familiar? sin, has warp the human mind in many way. due to the pride of our hearts, reproof is often resisted and viewed as something evil. though this is commonly the response, the Bible speaks very highly of reproof. if reproof is something that is to be valued, how does that correlate with the "judge not" attitude that is often given in response to reproof? in this message we examine the appropriate response to reproof, and its value in our lives.

Jun 14, 202101:01:43
why we need Jesus, Great doctrines series

why we need Jesus, Great doctrines series

Adam has plunged all of humanity into ruin, but what is the extent of that ruin? how did his fall impact our relationship with God and our personal lives? in this message we seek to answer those questions by a thorough examination of Gods word.

Jun 14, 202159:45
From Riches to Rags, Great doctrines series

From Riches to Rags, Great doctrines series

Adam, a man created in the richest environment, had literally every thing a man could ask for. what exactly did Adam lose when he disobeyed God?  tune in to find out.

Jun 14, 202155:08
God's image in man, great doctrines series

God's image in man, great doctrines series

Adam, a man formed of the dust, was created with a unique purpose, which separates him from all else. he was made to bear the image of the creator. So, what does it truly mean to bear that image? in this message we examine some aspect of humanity when are different than the rest of creation. 

May 29, 202152:05
God's Justice, great doctrines series

God's Justice, great doctrines series

the topic of Gods justice is one that often makes people uncomfortable, due to the thought of being brought to pay for the crimes we have committed. while that is certainly one aspect of His justice, there is so much more that often we fail to consider. in this message we see that God's justice inextricably connected to our salvation and the benefits of his justice in our daily lives.

May 29, 202155:25
God is Love, Great doctrines series

God is Love, Great doctrines series

God is Love, is a phrase that is commonly used but also misunderstood. what does it truly mean that God is love? Does that imply that God loves everything? these are just a few of the questions we consider in this message on this important attribute.

May 24, 202101:02:36
spiritual heart disease and it's cure

spiritual heart disease and it's cure

hard, cold, and indifferent, all describe conditions which can sometimes plague our hearts. while in this conditions the effect of Gods word in our lives is greatly diminished, for this reason we need a cure. in this message we look at the effects of a hard heart and how it is to be cured.

May 24, 202156:49
God's sovereignty, Great doctrines of the bible series

God's sovereignty, Great doctrines of the bible series

God's sovereignty is a topic which brings great comfort to some, and produces feelings of agitation to others. this great doctrine stands as a support to many other great truths, and for this reason, what someone believes concerning it, will shape their beliefs in other areas.

in this message we focus on the meaning of sovereignty and we look at the two most common errors some make in viewing it.

Apr 19, 202101:02:23
My Gospel

My Gospel

The Key element of the gospel is the resurrection of Christ, because he lives, I shall live also. what the women saw on Sunday morning two thousand years ago radically changed their lives! to hear the news that their friend was alive was supremely good for their soul. what they received after the gospel invitation was a gospel imperative, go and tell. if we like them, are to follow the gospel imperative, we should be sure of what the gospel is. in this message we examine some key elements of the gospel and what that means to Gods people.  

Apr 19, 202153:55
Great doctrines God's immutability

Great doctrines God's immutability

God's immutability is a truth which is a great source of hope to God's people. He is the great constant, on which you can truly depend. in this message, we take an in depth look at this aspect of God's character, and how that impacts us daily. 

Apr 12, 202159:18
great doctrines Gods omnipotence

great doctrines Gods omnipotence

like many of God's attributes, his power is one that is free from boundaries or limitations. this knowledge should be one which brings comfort to the Christian, as he comes to understand that God can do more than we can imagine. 

Apr 12, 202154:34
Great doctrines of the Bible Gods omniscience

Great doctrines of the Bible Gods omniscience

Gods omniscience is a doctrine which is sure to comfort a troubled mind, and trouble a comfortable soul. in this episode we examine what it means for God to be all knowing, the difference between prescience and foreknowledge, and the weather Gods omniscience makes him the active cause of all things.

Mar 09, 202146:35
Great doctrines of the Bible, God part 2

Great doctrines of the Bible, God part 2

the Infinitude of God is an intriguing study and one which finite man has a hard time grasping. this doctrine within theology, isn't just something to stretch the intellect, but is one that fill the examiner with hope and peace.

Mar 02, 202149:43
Great doctrines of the Bible God part 1

Great doctrines of the Bible God part 1

Psalms 46:10 exhorts the believer to be still and know that he is God. this means we are to relax, loosen up and be convinced that God is God. the subject of God is a deep well and a topic which yields great comforts. in this episode we examine the being of God and his spirituality.

Mar 02, 202154:13
Great doctrines of the Bible Creation

Great doctrines of the Bible Creation

there are teachings which the church holds to which are vital to the faith. these teachings establish the very foundation and any departure from these core truths will place the church on shaky ground. in this episode we look at one of these great doctrines. 

Feb 28, 202112:23
Defending the defenseless

Defending the defenseless

one of the great responsibilities which God places upon his people, is that they stand up for the defenseless. those that do not have the means of defending for themselves or providing for themselves are to come under their care. if anyone fits that category, certainly the unborn do. in this episode we examine our God given responsibilities towards those in this category. 

Feb 28, 202101:01:16
Dealing with discouragement

Dealing with discouragement

feeling down is a part of life, we have mountain top experiences and low valleys. even those who seem to walk close to heaven and do great things, have their moments of despair. Elijah was a mighty prophet, yet even he sat under a tree wishing for death. it was in those moments we see Gods gracious remedy for the moments of gloom.

Feb 28, 202101:01:54
Biblical Manliness

Biblical Manliness

society today has greatly diminished true manhood. Many have wrong ideas as to the role of males, and what it takes to be a true man. the Bible, however has unique insight into what makes a true man, and we would do well to understand these truths.

Feb 27, 202101:11:33
Saul's road to rebellion

Saul's road to rebellion

Saul, is a perfect example of a man who started strong, but through bad choices finished his life poorly. many would look at the choices he made as a proof that his eternal salvation was forfeit, however the scriptures record something entirely different. In this episode we see how Gods grace overrule our bad decisions. 

Feb 27, 202158:10