Seasoned For:

So how does the Jewishness of Jesus shape our look on Christianity?

More often than not, we read the Bible and see Jesus with the wrong lenses. As a Jew, Jesus did things that made a lot of sense to Jewish people. So in this episode, we start to discover what that really meant then and now. David is a Messianic Jew with such amazing insights. Enjoy.

The Kingdom revealed: Self reflection

Luke 12:41-48 TPT

41 “Lord,” Peter asked, “does this apply only to the twelve of us, or is it for everyone else as well?”

42 The Lord replied, “A master will delegate authority in his house to a trustworthy and thoughtful manager who understands his master’s desires. And the household manager will serve others what they need at exactly the right time. 43–44 And whenever his master returns, he will find that his servant has served him well. I promise you, the master will reward him generously and he will be placed as an overseer of everything he owns.

45 “But what if that servant says in his heart, ‘My master delays his coming, and who knows when he will return?’ Because of the delay, the servant elevates himself and mistreats those in his master’s household. Instead of caring for the ones he was appointed to serve, he abuses the other servants, both men and women. He throws drunken parties for his friends and gives himself over to every pleasure. 46 Let me tell you what will happen to him. His master will suddenly return at a time that shocks him, and he will remove the abusive, selfish servant from his position of trust. The master will punish him and assign him a portion with the unbelievers.

47 “Every servant who knows what pleases his master yet does not make himself ready and refuses to put his master’s will to action will receive many punishing blows. 48 Every servant who does not know his master’s will and unwittingly does what is wrong will receive a less severe punishment. For those who have received a greater revelation from their master are required a greater obedience. And those who have been entrusted with great responsibility will be held more responsible to their master.”

So have you ever looked at where you lived thought..could do better!?

It is such a common thing. But there is a light in the darkness. Whilst Lloyd is involved in healing his city (Stoke on Trent), it had to start with repairing in his soul. And my word! What a story!! This is fizzing and full of so much vital wisdom that I would richly recommend you share this with all your friends and family. Enjoy.

The Kingdom revealed / Cultivating fruit (part 3)

Matthew 13:1-9 TPT

1 Later that day, Jesus left the house and sat by the lakeshore to teach the people. 2 Soon, there were so many people surrounding him that he had to teach sitting in a boat while the large crowd stood on the shore. 3 He taught them many things by using stories, parables to illustrate spiritual truths, saying:

”Consider this: There was a farmer who went out to sow seeds. 4 As he cast his seeds, some fell along the beaten path and the birds came and ate them. 5 Others fell onto gravel that had no topsoil. They quickly shot up, 6 but when the days grew hot, they were scorched and withered because they had insufficient roots. 7 Others fell among the thorns, so when they sprouted, the thorns choked them. 8 But other seeds fell on good, rich soil that kept producing a good harvest. Some yielded thirty, some sixty, and some even one hundred times as much as he planted! 9 If you’re able to understand this, then you need to respond.”

So how do I blend my climate change and my faith?

It's not as tricky as it sounds. We are placed on this planet to bless it - the people and the places we are in. A Rocha are pioneers in this space in showing us how we blend our faith into action. Andy shares some amazing insights and stories that really inspire us to action. Enjoy.

The Kingdom revealed / Cultivating fruit (part 2)

Matthew 13:1-9 TPT

1 Later that day, Jesus left the house and sat by the lakeshore to teach the people. 2 Soon, there were so many people surrounding him that he had to teach sitting in a boat while the large crowd stood on the shore. 3 He taught them many things by using stories, parables to illustrate spiritual truths, saying:

”Consider this: There was a farmer who went out to sow seeds. 4 As he cast his seeds, some fell along the beaten path and the birds came and ate them. 5 Others fell onto gravel that had no topsoil. They quickly shot up, 6 but when the days grew hot, they were scorched and withered because they had insufficient roots. 7 Others fell among the thorns, so when they sprouted, the thorns choked them. 8 But other seeds fell on good, rich soil that kept producing a good harvest. Some yielded thirty, some sixty, and some even one hundred times as much as he planted! 9 If you’re able to understand this, then you need to respond.”

How can I be my best self?

What a question! But in actual fact, that is all we can be - ourselves. But let's be honest, lets be brave, let's start to re-evaluate how we are living and what steps we need to do to thrive and make a bigger impact in this world. Tarn's experiences and insights are fizzing with so much wisdom. Was sooo good. Enjoy.

The Kingdom revealed: Cultivating fruit (part 1)

Matthew 13:1-9 TPT

1 Later that day, Jesus left the house and sat by the lakeshore to teach the people. 2 Soon, there were so many people surrounding him that he had to teach sitting in a boat while the large crowd stood on the shore. 3 He taught them many things by using stories, parables to illustrate spiritual truths, saying:

”Consider this: There was a farmer who went out to sow seeds. 4 As he cast his seeds, some fell along the beaten path and the birds came and ate them. 5 Others fell onto gravel that had no topsoil. They quickly shot up, 6 but when the days grew hot, they were scorched and withered because they had insufficient roots. 7 Others fell among the thorns, so when they sprouted, the thorns choked them. 8 But other seeds fell on good, rich soil that kept producing a good harvest. Some yielded thirty, some sixty, and some even one hundred times as much as he planted! 9 If you’re able to understand this, then you need to respond.”

So what is Spiritual Intelligence?

We all know about emotional intelligence and social intelligence is.. well a lot of us do. But spiritual intelligence, that is a even more profoundly helpful set of lenses. It enables us to see the world with an eternal point of view. But lets not get carried away, have a listen to this really practical conversation with Mark, as he shares what it really is and how we can live with these lenses more. Enjoy.

The Kingdom revealed: Be Ready  (part 2)

Luke 12:35-40 TPT

35 “Be prepared for action at a moment’s notice. 36 Be like servants anticipating their master’s return from a wedding celebration. They are ready at a moment’s notice to unlock and open the door for him. 37 What great joy is ahead for those who stay awake and wait for their Master’s return! He himself will become their servant and wait on them. 38 He may appear at midnight or even later, but what great joy for the awakened ones whenever he comes! 39 Of course, if they knew ahead of time the hour of their master’s appearing, they would be alert, just as they would be ready if they knew ahead of time that a thief was coming to break into their house. 40 So keep being alert and ready at all times. For I promise you that the Son of Man will surprise you and appear when you don’t expect him.”

Being present is the 1st step in being Spirit led. The 2nd is *sharing your vulnerability. *

How on earth do we build faith?

It's the million dollar question that gets so many different answers. The reality is, it's not as hard as you think. But I am not about to tell you, you'll have to listen to the episode to find out for yourself. Prof John Swinton was brilliant. Enjoy.

The Kingdom revealed : Personal responsibility 

Luke 13:6-9 TPT

6 Then Jesus told them this parable: “There was a man who planted a fig tree in his orchard. But every time he came to gather fruit from his tree he found none, for it was barren. 7 So he said to his gardener, ‘For the last three years I’ve come to gather figs from my tree but it remains fruitless. What a waste! Go ahead and cut it down!’

8 “But the gardener protested, ‘Sir, we should leave it one more year. Let me fertilize and cultivate it, then let’s see if it will produce fruit. 9 If it doesn’t bear figs by next year, we’ll cut it down.’ ”

The Kingdom revealed: Be Ready 

Luke 12:35-40 TPT

35 “Be prepared for action at a moment’s notice. 36 Be like servants anticipating their master’s return from a wedding celebration. They are ready at a moment’s notice to unlock and open the door for him. 37 What great joy is ahead for those who stay awake and wait for their Master’s return! He himself will become their servant and wait on them. 38 He may appear at midnight or even later, but what great joy for the awakened ones whenever he comes! 39 Of course, if they knew ahead of time the hour of their master’s appearing, they would be alert, just as they would be ready if they knew ahead of time that a thief was coming to break into their house. 40 So keep being alert and ready at all times. For I promise you that the Son of Man will surprise you and appear when you don’t expect him.”

What does it look like to be ready?

Ever heard the phrase, 'Jesus is coming back soon, better look ready?' Yep. Ridiculous! But there is a certain anxiety that we can get when we are told to get ready.. when we are not. Worry not, Harvey shares some really wonderful insights in what being ready really looks like. It's not what you think.. It's actually very accessible. Enjoy. 

The Kingdom revealed: Be Ready  (part 1)

Luke 12:35-40 TPT

35 “Be prepared for action at a moment’s notice. 36 Be like servants anticipating their master’s return from a wedding celebration. They are ready at a moment’s notice to unlock and open the door for him. 37 What great joy is ahead for those who stay awake and wait for their Master’s return! He himself will become their servant and wait on them. 38 He may appear at midnight or even later, but what great joy for the awakened ones whenever he comes! 39 Of course, if they knew ahead of time the hour of their master’s appearing, they would be alert, just as they would be ready if they knew ahead of time that a thief was coming to break into their house. 40 So keep being alert and ready at all times. For I promise you that the Son of Man will surprise you and appear when you don’t expect him.”

The Jewish context is key!

Not really a surprise to many, but it's great to hear the context in how the Gospels are written from the point of view of their author, who they are written to and what they really meant to them and to us now. This episode starts explaining this with Alex Jacob, who gives brilliant insights that can serve to enrich our understanding of the Gospel passages. Enjoy. 

The Kingdom revealed: Generosity

Luke 12:13-20 TPT

13 Just then someone spoke up from the crowd and said, “Master, you should compel my older brother to divide the family inheritance and give me my fair share!”

14 Jesus answered, “My friend, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?”

15 Speaking to the people, Jesus continued, “Be alert and guard your heart from greed and from always wishing for what you don’t have. For your life can never be measured by the amount of things you possess.”

16 Jesus then gave them this illustration: “A wealthy land owner had a farm that produced bumper crops. Every year the harvest was so great it filled his barns to overflowing! 17 He thought, ‘What should I do now that every barn is full and I have nowhere else to store more? 18 I know what I’ll do! I’ll tear down the barns and build one massive barn to hold all my grain and goods. 19 Then I can just sit back, surrounded with comfort and ease. I’ll enjoy life with no worries at all.’

20 “God said to him, ‘What a fool you are to trust in your riches and not in me! This very night the messengers of death will demand to take your life. Then who will get all the wealth you have stored up for yourself?’ 21 The same thing will happen to all those who fill up their lives with everything but God.”

What does it mean to share our faith?

Yep, it is something that we all get to hear about, but what does it really look like? How do I do it? Jaz shares her journey from India to Ashford, via Wimbledon and Croydon and her love for people and Christ. Get yourself comfortable and listen in to a chat between 2 friends. Really great. 

The Kingdom revealed: Why hide it?

Luke 8:16 TPT

16 “No one lights a lamp and then hides it, covering it over or putting it where no one sees its light. No, he places the lamp on a lampstand so others benefit from its brightness.

Ever wondered how Food Banks went national?

Chris shares his utterly remarkable story of what led him to being instrumental in scaling up a small project to something that has more locations than McDonald's. His story is testimony to the fact that often we are not in control of everything, but when we turn up to serve, it is amazing what God can do with us. His is a story of a quiet revolution. I think we can all be involved in similar amazing movements. 

The Kingdom revealed: A new input

Luke 7 TPT

36 Afterward Simeon, a Jewish religious leader, asked Jesus to his home for dinner. Jesus accepted the invitation. When he went to Simeon’s home, he took his place at the table.

37 In the neighborhood there was an immoral woman of the streets, known to all to be a prostitute. When she heard that Jesus was at Simeon’s house, she took an exquisite flask made from alabaster, filled it with the most expensive perfume, went right into the home of the Jewish religious leader, and in front of all the guests, she knelt at the feet of Jesus. 38 Broken and weeping, she covered his feet with the tears that fell from her face. She kept crying and drying his feet with her long hair. Over and over she kissed Jesus’ feet. Then, as an act of worship, she opened her flask and anointed his feet with her costly perfume.

39 When Simeon saw what was happening, he thought, “This man can’t be a true prophet. If he were really a prophet, he would know what kind of sinful woman is touching him.”

40 Jesus said, “Simeon, I have a word for you.”

“Go ahead, Teacher. I want to hear it,” he answered.

41 “It’s a story about two men who were deeply in debt. One owed the bank one hundred thousand coins, and the other only owed ten thousand coins. 42 When it was obvious that neither of them would be able to repay their debts, the kind banker graciously wrote off the debts and forgave them all that they owed. Tell me, Simeon, which of the two debtors would be more thankful? Which one would love the banker most?”

43 Simeon answered, “I suppose it would be the one with the greater debt forgiven.”

“You’re right,” Jesus agreed.

What is a new Wine?

If you have heard the devotion accompanying this, you'll see that Jesus is referring to a new kind of input. When it comes to growing the church and particularly when it comes to integrated forms, we need new ways to consider this. Mary has decades of expertise in supporting ministries to young people. It's in here that she shares how the rest of the Church can make some very practical changes to be more inclusive. As always, enjoy.

Mark 5: 37-38 TPT

37 And who pours new wine into an old wineskin? If someone did, the old wineskin would burst and the new wine would be lost. 38 New wine must always be poured into new wineskins.

What on earth is Church Planting?

To many of us, it's obvious, where as to others, it's a little more cryptic. Basically, is how to start a Church in a new location. Tricky? Not really, well depends. Chris shares his story of how he and a crowd of folk decided that they wanted to bring more hope into a community in Manchester. Through the real life stories, his wisdom is wildly practical. Enjoy. 

The Kingdom revealed : New ways

Mark 2: 18-21 TPT

18 One time, the disciples of John the Baptizer and the Pharisees were fasting. So they came to Jesus and asked, “Why is it that John’s disciples and disciples of the Pharisees are fasting but your disciples are not?”

19 Jesus answered, “How can the sons of the bridal chamber fast when the bridegroom is next to them? As long as the bridegroom is with them they won’t, 20 but the days of fasting will come when the Bridegroom is taken from them.

21 “And who would mend worn-out clothing with new fabric? When the new cloth shrinks, it will rip, making the tear worse than before.

What a year!!

So 2022 is nearly over and my oh my! What a year it has been! So much to say.. so lets get some snippets from a heap of wonderful friends - looking back on the year past and the looking forward to the year to come. 

THE CHOICE

Matthew 7: 26-27 TPT

26 “But everyone who hears my teaching and does not apply it to his life can be compared to a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 When it rained and rained and the flood came, with wind and waves beating upon his house, it collapsed and was swept away.”

I know, I know. I am shouting with all Caps.. but this is one to shout about!

This is an episode that we all need to hear. If you are interested in seeing your Church grow or want to have a bigger impact in your spheres of influence, what Peter shares is SOOO important. It's easy, low cringe, and it is seeing growth at ENORMOUS rates. 97 million so far. Yep. That big. Check it out and you'll see for yourself. Oh.. also note this, big is actually a sum of small parts. ;)

The builders

Matthew 7: 24-25 TPT

24 “Everyone who hears my teaching and applies it to his life can be compared to a wise man who built his house on an unshakable foundation. 25 When the rains fell and the flood came, with fierce winds beating upon his house, it stood firm because of its strong foundation.

Is there a better way of living?

Well of course there is, it's just a matter of what it is and is it worth it? Greg, from the Society of St Columba, shares some really helpful insights that we all could do with. I have to say, I was really moved by what he shared and I hope you will be blessed just as much. Enjoy. 

The walk

Matthew 7: 22-23 TPT

22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’

When do we get to Heaven?

It's a bit like, "are we there yet?" The answer to that is yes. If you want to. But there is work to be done. We all have a part to play. See it like this, if God is in Heaven, wherever He is, then there is Heaven. So where is He? Well.. you best listen.. it'll make more sense. Keith, as ever, was excellent. Enjoy. 

Access

Matthew 7: 21 TPT

21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter into heaven’s kingdom. It is only those who persist in doing the will of my heavenly Father.

Ever wondered about Revival?

I have and I am sure many others have too. How do to they start, what keeps them going and why do they end? They are the stuff of legend, but are they that rare? Here, we get to chat with Nigel who suggests that Revival is happening more than we realise. Enjoy. 

Their Fruit

Matthew 7: 17-20 TPT (part 2)

So if the tree is good, it will produce good fruit; but if the tree is bad, it will bear only rotten fruit and it deserves to be cut down and burned. Look at the obvious fruit of their lives and ministries, and then you’ll know whether they are true or false.”

Let's do this.

So, here we are, you ready? This is such a contentious subject that seems to have so many opinions. I guess I ask, how is that working out for you and for others? For me, having been in this conversation for a long time, I always wonder what is Jesus' perspective on this. And it is from here that I find Marko articulates some brilliant wisdom from personal experiences. This is a must listen to episode. 

Fruit

Matthew 7: 17-20 TPT (part 1)

So if the tree is good, it will produce good fruit; but if the tree is bad, it will bear only rotten fruit and it deserves to be cut down and burned. Look at the obvious fruit of their lives and ministries, and then you’ll know whether they are true or false.”

So what is the centre of your world?

You, your family, friends, what you love? Satellites orbit around globe. In this excellent episode, Martin, from Youthscape and Director of Satellites (the festival) shares its real meaning. Seriously good. Enjoy.

ELEVATION

Matthew 7: 15-16 TPT

15 “Constantly be on your guard against phony prophets. They come disguised as lambs, appearing to be genuine, but on the inside they are like wild, ravenous wolves!16 You can spot them by their actions, for the fruits of their character will be obvious. You won’t find sweet grapes hanging on a thorn bush, and you’ll never pick good fruit from a tumbleweed. 

Can God use me?

"Er, yes. But where?" I love to use the term, 'using what is in your hand'. That is the thing that you do, your skills and/or your responsibilities. Everything we are involved with is an opportunity to bring life, wholeness and justice into the world. In other words, that is what the Kingdom of God looks like. It's not mysterious, its tangible. With Christ, we follow Him to create inclusion, equity, goodness and where possible joy. In this weeks episode, Nigel shares just how he changed the law to transforms so many peoples lives. Utterly inspirational. Enjoy.

Intentionality 

Matthew 7: 13-14 TPT

13 “Come to God through the narrow gate, because the wide gate and broad path is the way that leads to destruction—nearly everyone chooses that crowded road! 14 The narrow gate and the difficult way leads to eternal life—so few even find it!”

What helps people stick to things?

Well, that is the million dollar question! The answer is found in what we do. Marko shares his wealth of working with young people and reveals that there are things we need to avoid and things that we urgently need to do to help people to thrive. If your programmes need revitalising, this is a MUST listen to. Genuinely, you put the lessons heard on this episode into practice and you will see a significant improvement in the ministries you are involved with. Enjoy.

Kingdom alignment / The power of solidarity

Matthew 7: 12 TPT (part 6)

12 “In everything you do, be careful to treat others in the same way you’d want them to treat you, for that is the essence of all the teachings of the Law and the Prophets.”

Showing weakness = strong?

Sounds a bit upside down and bonkers? Well.. in the Kingdom perspective, it's the way to open a window and doorway for Christ to walk into our midst. When we learn to navigate being honest and sharing ourselves in a safe way, its remarkable what happens in so many ways. Aarons insights shows the power of community when we are away from home.. You'll see. :)

Kingdom alignment / The power of vulnerability

Matthew 7: 12 TPT (part 5)

12 “In everything you do, be careful to treat others in the same way you’d want them to treat you, for that is the essence of all the teachings of the Law and the Prophets.”

Fun with Faith

Sounds odd. Or does it? James is a sitcom writer (Ref: Miranda) and a Christian. With that, it is fascinating what happens when his view of the world (comedy) crashes in with our Christian faith. Honestly, who knew our faith was that nuts?? Well, ok, a lot of us did.. So have a listen and chuckle at this rather lovely chat with a rather funny man. Enjoy.

The golden rule / Authenticity

Matthew 7: 12 TPT (part 4)

12 “In everything you do, be careful to treat others in the same way you’d want them to treat you, for that is the essence of all the teachings of the Law and the Prophets.”