Ever felt that prickle of anticipation, that longing for Christmas morning as a child? Remember that toy you desired above all else but never found under the tree? We're about to venture on a journey that explores the art of waiting, the disappointment that sometimes accompanies it, and ultimately, the divine purpose that unfolds in God's perfect timing. We'll take a deep look into Luke's gospel, and the Christmas story that we all know, to drive home these life-altering insights.We've all experienced a Zechariah and Elizabeth moment - a time of waiting, a period of questioning, a season of disbelief. Their story, marked by infertility and an angelic encounter, is a powerful testament to God's fidelity even in our seasons of doubt. We explore how their waiting period, much like ours, was not a punishment but a divine orchestration leading to the fulfillment of a divine promise. This story acts as a mirror, reflecting our own doubts, disappointments, and ultimate triumphs in the face of adversity.Finally, we'll explore how to actively seek God during our waiting seasons. We're not just talking about biding our time; we're talking about a waiting that cultivates patience, resilience, and an unwavering faith. Remember, waiting isn't a stagnant state, it's a transformative process that fosters growth. So, whether you're waiting for a job, a partner, or a breakthrough, join us in understanding that waiting is not just about what we get at the end, but who we become in the process. Listen in, and let's learn to trust in God's timing together.Support the show

Ever wondered about the peculiar Christmas traditions that have become an integral part of your holiday celebrations, or the historical intricacies of the Gospel of Luke? If so, buckle up for an enlightening discussion where we decode these traditions, starting from the peculiar Christmas Pickle to Krampus Night. We also embark on an explorative journey through the first two chapters of Luke's gospel in our Advent series, "Christmas according to Luke", where we aim to provide a detailed understanding of Luke's writings, bringing about a sense of personal renewal and fresh perspective this Christmas season.As we navigate through the Gospel of Luke, we're not shying away from hard-hitting questions about its authenticity, comparing the New Testament with other religious texts, and addressing your queries about the historical truth of Jesus' story. We're going to dissect the concept of textual criticism and its role in determining the reliability of historical documents. Luke's investigative approach, despite his lack of personal interaction with Jesus, sets the stage for a dynamic and enriching dialogue about faith and history.Our exploration doesn't stop there. We'll be comparing the historical narratives and timelines of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. It's compelling to realize how these faiths weave themselves into history through archaeological findings and external evidence. The meticulous preservation of the Bible, especially when contrasted with other faiths, demonstrates the robust historical foundation of Christianity. Join us in this journey as we unpack this rich heritage and delve into the timeless relevance of Luke's Gospel in our lives today.Support the show

Have you ever wondered about the role faith plays in our lives, and how it impacts our decisions and perceptions? We've embarked on an enlightening journey, concluding our Suspicious Faith series by delving into the thought-provoking critiques of Freud, Marx, and Nietzsche. Uncover how Freud's assertion that faith fulfills unconscious psychological needs, Marx’s view of faith as a painkiller, and Nietzsche's multifaceted critique of religion can refine and deepen our faith. Venture further with us into Suspicious Faith as we study Nietzsche's impactful teachings. Challenge yourself to see faith not just as a spiritual shelter but as a philosophical guide to life. As we dissect Nietzsche's assertion 'God is dead' and his concept of Ubermensch, we find an unexpected parallel with James, Jesus's brother, who also urged Christians to be proactive in doing good on earth. This episode will help you embrace the essence of both philosophies - the pursuit of truth and the drive for self-improvement.Lastly, our exploration leads us to the concept of following Jesus. It may seem intimidating or uncertain, but we encourage you to keep engaging, learning, and questioning. Faith isn't about having all the answers but about the journey towards a deeper understanding of divine values. We believe that this pursuit can lead us to a robust, empathetic, transformative faith. Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, this episode will provoke thought and stimulate your mind.Support the show

Ever wondered why some of history's most influential atheists like Sigmund Freud, Karl Marx, and Frederick Nietzsche, were able to make such uncomfortably accurate critiques of faith? We're shaking things up in our latest episode, taking a brave step towards understanding their perspectives and how they invite us to examine our own beliefs. This isn't about questioning our faith, rather it's about strengthening it through thoughtful self-examination and open conversation.Enter the enigmatic world of Karl Marx as we explore his unique outlook on religion and faith. Marx argues that religion has become a soothing balm, a societal ibuprofen, if you will, that distracts us from the true societal issues. We delve into the compelling intertwinement of religious institutions with oppressive political and economic systems. Together, let's unearth the potential within us to address religion as an opium and strive for a more enlightened society.Finally, we edify our thoughts with the teachings of King Solomon and Jesus, reflecting on the huge responsibility of those in power to uphold justice and protect the vulnerable. The vision of God's kingdom cannot be achieved alone; therefore, we emphasize the significance of individual contribution. Remember, each of us has a part to play, and burning out isn't an option. So, join us on this thought-provoking journey, a conversation that could guide you towards a more profound understanding of your faith.Support the show

Imagine walking a path of faith, hand in hand with Jesus, that is not dictated by dogmas but a journey of self-discovery and critical examination. Can we genuinely experience spiritual fulfillment without questioning the very foundations of our beliefs? It’s a journey that invites us to dig deep into the philosophies of Sigmund Freud, Karl Marx, and Friedrich Nietzsche. We take a closer look at Marx's perspective on religion being the opium of the masses and Nietzsche’s critique of Christian morality. Can we discern between societal conditioning and divine truth? Can we unravel the threads of religion and tradition to reveal the purest essence of faith?As we navigate through this intellectual expedition, we also turn the spotlight on Freud's viewpoint that considers religion as a human creation serving as a source of comfort. How does this perspective resonate with the New Testament's description of God's love? This love, we find, is not just something God does, it's a part of his very being. This episode isn’t about cozy reassurances; it's about challenging ourselves, stirring the pot of comfort, questioning what we've known, and unlearning what needs to be unlearned. It may feel unsettling, but remember, even Jesus challenged the status quo. So, let's embrace this discomfort and take a leap of faith into a more meaningful spiritual growth and a closer walk with Jesus. Join us, and let’s experience this journey together.Support the show

Have you ever found solace in the phrase "everything happens for a reason" during challenging times? Challenging this comforting belief, we probe into its potential to misinterpret divine intentions. Does everything really happen for a reason? Is it part of a divine plan, or is it simply the result of our free will? To answer these questions, we dive into the biblical story of Joseph. Despite being sold into slavery, falsely accused, and wrongfully imprisoned, Joseph’s life serves as a testament to how God can turn despair into grace, using even the worst of situations for good.Finally, we draw hope from God's love, as reflected in the promise found in Romans 8:28. In our darkest hours, it's vital to remember that God does not author suffering, but can use it for good. This episode encourages us to find hope in the divine, reassuring us of God's unwavering presence in our lives. So, join us in this enlightening episode as we reassess a popular phrase and find hope in our faith. Let's navigate these reflections together, reassured by God's ever-pervasive love.Support the show

Ever wondered why the desire for independence is so deeply rooted within us, and how it shapes the trajectory of our lives? We are taking a deep-dive into these questions and discussing the cultural resonance of personal independence. More so, we uncover the harsh feelings of guilt and shame when we can't accomplish something on our own, and how these emotions can act as barriers to our own success. But there's more. We are turning a new leaf as we explore the biblical call to stand up for the ones who can't do it themselves. This episode shines a spotlight on how faith and community can be game-changers in advocating for marginalized groups. We will also discuss how God aids those in need through us, serving as a reminder of our potential to reconcile with him and become agents of his love. To wrap it up, we will critically assess some Christian clichés to decide if they're biblically sound or merely sound biblical. A holistic conversation awaits you, so get ready to join the discussion.Support the show

Ever been told God won't give you more than you can handle? We're about to turn that misconception on its head. We've all found ourselves in dire straits—situations that seem insurmountable. The Bible is teeming with examples of such predicaments. From Noah's daunting task of saving humanity to Abraham's promise of fathering a nation, we see biblical figures grappling with overwhelming situations. Even personal experience has taught me—losing my job, suffering financial hardship, and enduring the end of my marriage—that sometimes, life can indeed be more than one can handle. But here's the twist: while God may allow us to encounter situations we can't handle, he never allows us to face something he can't handle. Our journey doesn't end there, though. We also delve into the story of David, whose trials and tribulations moved him from an "I’ve got this" mentality to an "it’s got me" realization. It's a beautiful testament to letting go and surrendering our struggles to God. His faith allowed him to turn to God's safety, comfort, and deliverance amidst physical pain, emotional confusion, relational conflicts, and behavioral struggles. Faith can do the same for us. And amidst all this uncertainty, we stress the significance of patience and trust in God's timing.Finally, we offer a glimmer of hope in the face of despair. Even in our darkest hours, we emphasize that God is present and has a plan for your future. Through David's example, we see how he waited patiently for God's goodness, even amidst confusion, pain, and conflict. The road may be rocky, the night may be dark, but rest assured that dawn is coming. So, join us in this episode for an insightful discussion that challenges cliches, explores biblical truths, and provides reassuring reminders of God's unwavering presence and unfailing love.Support the show

What if the life-changing, soul-shaking, breathtaking vision Jesus had for the church wasn't about a physical building at all? Imagine a church where community and relationships with God and one another trump everything else, and where mission isn't what we do but who we are. We're peeling back the layers of tradition and challenging the norms, exploring the journey of leading a disruptive church ministry that seeks to live out this vision. From bomb threats to Instagram trolls, we've faced both hostility and humor in our pursuit of a Jesus-centric faith. But, we've also discovered the power of saying no to good things to make room for better ones, realizing that breaking away from the conventional path can lead us closer to God. And in refining our paths, we've learned that it's crucial to invite others into the journey, to be a community that supports one another in the highs, lows and in-betweens. So, join us in being the church, not just attending church, as we navigate the beautiful complexities of disruption and recommitment in our Christian faith.Support the show

What if you were right there, experiencing an unprecedented spiritual revival firsthand? Get ready to be catapulted into the heart of a remarkable event that turned a routine chapel service at Asbury University, Kentucky, into a global phenomenon. We'll walk you through the electrifying moment when God's presence disrupted complacency and triggered a stirring of faith, and how such transformative moments can occur in your own spiritual journey.Ever wondered about the powerful role of community in faith? We'll transport you back to the Garden of Eden where God walked face to face with humans, and how sin's brokenness still didn't deter Him, leading Him back to us in the form of Jesus. But it doesn't stop there - Jesus's ascension marked the beginning of the Holy Spirit's presence in our lives. We'll guide you on how to be an active part of the church community, and like Walter Brueggemann puts it, get a glimpse of the Kingdom of God. Buckle up as we delve into the concept of a disruptive church and its potential to be a catalyst for spiritual renewal.Support the show

Have you ever pondered what makes your church unique and essential in your spiritual journey? Well, we did just that at Madison Church. In part two of this series, we delve into the distinctive elements of Madison Church that make us who we are. On this exciting journey of discovery, we unpack the six core values that form our community's backbone: Jesus is Lord, Disciple Making, Missional-Incarnational Impulse, Community, Organic Systems, and an APEST culture. Each value acts as a compass, guiding our actions, molding our decisions, and strengthening our bond with God and each other.Continuing on this path of revelation, we share our ambitious vision of establishing ten micro-locations within Madison. By doing so, we aim to meet the diverse needs of the community and create a platform for spiritual growth. We shed light on the checks and balances in our leadership structure and the importance of membership within our congregation. So, are you ready to uncover the essence of Madison Church and how these guiding principles help us in our continuous mission? Let's get started!Support the show

Are you ready to challenge the norms and take a deep dive into the transformative power of a disruptive church community? This episode is a bold, honest exploration of our journey at Madison Church, as we set our sights on a mission to connect people with God and each other in truly meaningful ways. It's not always easy - we've had to make tough decisions, let go of things we love, and even end projects. But through it all, we've stood firm in our mission, examining the costs and rewards of being a disruptive force for good in our community.Picture, for a moment, the traditional understanding of faith. Now, imagine setting that aside, and instead emphasizing the role of community and mission over physical church buildings. We discuss this in depth, through the lens of Jesus' resurrection and the Gospel's mission. We look at John 20, breaking away from the conventional to stress on every believer as a missionary, and being sent as the very essence of the church. Can you see it? A vision of an ecclesia, an assembly of people gathered for a purpose, rooted in the teachings of Jesus.But what does this mean for you? How can you become a part of this mission? We believe in stepping up and serving the community, using our gifts, talents, and passions for the collective good. We acknowledge the dedication and hard work of those already serving, and encourage more people to join this mission. We also discuss the path of salvation and reconciliation as a collective effort, requiring unity and understanding. The journey might be tough, the road filled with hardships, but the rewards are immense - a life of fullness and thriving. So, tune in, get inspired, and take action!Support the show

Ready to deepen your spiritual journey and embrace a vibrant community? Join us as we embark on a compelling exploration of Madison Church's unique mission and practices. We'll dive into the heart of spiritual growth, uncovering the power of Bible reading, consistent prayer, and the sacred tradition of baptism. Discover how these practices serve as spiritual anchors, drawing us closer to God and enhancing our spiritual depth. Then, let's journey together into the heart of community building, from sharing meals to resolving conflicts biblically. We'll unravel the three pillars of giving back - volunteering, financial contributions, and using our influence for Christ and his Kingdom.So, whether you're a seeker or a long-time believer, this episode is your invitation to connect more deeply with God and others. We believe in the power of diversity, welcoming individuals from all faith backgrounds. We look forward to welcoming you into our Sunday gatherings, where we aim to grow together in faith, love and service.Support the show

Are you ready to redefine your understanding of the church and explore the concept of disruptive faith? Dive headfirst with us into an enlightening conversation that pushes boundaries and challenges traditional norms. We, at Madison Church, believe in turning these disruptions into catalysts for self-improvement and spiritual growth. From daily inconveniences to more significant setbacks, we'll share how these challenges can be opportunities for change.Let's start by debunking the idea of the church as a physical structure. We're venturing beyond the bricks and mortar to redefine 'church' as a vibrant, dynamic community with Jesus at its core. Unearth a new perspective on faith, as we discuss Jesus' radical vision of the church as a mobile movement, not confined to Sundays but a purpose-driven mission that goes beyond. We’ll delve into how this mission is enabled through the work of Christians, individually and collectively, marking this purpose deep in our hearts.But forging this path requires courage. We'll navigate the concept of a disruptive church and the bravery required to step out of one's comfort zone. We'll encourage you to muster the courage needed to create potential. It’s time to leave behind the safety of what is known, to disrupt the status quo and become the church in a world that needs disruption. Join us for this thrilling exploration of faith, disruption and transformation, and embark on this challenging yet rewarding journey with us.Support the show

Have you ever pondered on the story of the Prodigal Son, considered its profound message, and sought to connect its teachings of grace and forgiveness to real-life challenges? Well, join us on this journey as we draw deep lessons from this biblical parable while reflecting on the nine-year journey of Madison Church. We'll share stories of resilience, strength, and faith that led us through daunting trials, including the shut-down of our two locations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this challenging world where faith often wavers, we need more than the typical Sunday gathering. What if every believer took Paul's teachings to heart, grew more like Christ, and embedded themselves deeply in the church body? In this episode, we emphasize the indispensability of community involvement in the church, inspiring one and all to live out their faith not solitarily, but as part of an interconnected, supportive community. We call on everyone to come together as believers, learn from one another, and inspire each other to acts of love and good work.As we conclude our series on living out faith between Sundays, we reiterate the significance of gathering as believers. Over 2,000 years ago, the early church met to share meals and learn from the apostles. We encourage the same today and challenge ourselves to continue meeting, not just on Sunday mornings, but at gatherings and small groups throughout the week. Let's transform our faith into a daily journey, not just a Sunday gathering. Get ready for a deep dive into faith, community, and connection. Let's explore this journey together.Support the show

A profound conversation with my son sparked a fascinating exploration into the intrinsic value of relationships and community in our spiritual lives. He wisely reminded me that the company we keep is, undeniably, one of the most critical life decisions we make. Do you find yourself drawn to the comfort of solitude? Or perhaps you've been scarred by misplaced trust, leaving you hesitant to let anyone in? Regardless of your reasons, this episode compels you to reconsider the value of companionship on your spiritual journey, debunking the notion that spirituality is a solitary pursuit.Let's get real - genuine, authentic connections are a lifeline. They provide us with a sense of clarity, a support system, and a sense of belonging. Remember that time in college when you were overwhelmed with decisions and doubts? That's when your 'clearness committee' stepped in - your trusted group of friends who helped you navigate through the storm. We all need a clearness committee, a sanctuary where honesty, authenticity, and mutual respect thrive. Lastly, we address the sacred power that communities possess. Picture those moments when you're drowning in life's trials, and a helping hand reaches out. That's the power of community. We are hard-wired for it. There's something divine about genuine connections – when two or three gather, magic happens. The potential for transformation, healing, direction, and freedom is boundless. So, let's ask ourselves, are we harnessing the sacred power of community? Are we experiencing the profound connections that can anchor our lives? Tune in to our insightful journey and discover the transformative power of community and relationships in your own life.Support the show

Have you ever wondered about the story behind Madison Church, and how it transformed from a single Facebook post to the vibrant community it is today? I'm Stephen Feith, your host and lead pastor, and today, we're taking a walk down memory lane. We'll revisit our early days, when Anthony, a young man I met through a Facebook post, became our first member, our first baptism, and one of our first leaders. Through trials and tribulations, we've grown organically, carrying the faith and dedication of our members as our backbone.Then, we shift our focus to the heart of our community - our small group gatherings. Inspired by the early disciples, we delve into the foundations and significance of these little clusters within our congregation. We acknowledge the fears and reservations that may come with joining such groups, but we also celebrate the profound impact these gatherings can have on your spiritual journey. As we look ahead in 2023, we share practical advice on maintaining individual Bible study, prayer, and nurturing connections within our Madison community. Tune in to this podcast episode, as we honor our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to the future of Madison Church.Support the show

We're venturing to the heart of Londonderry, Northern Ireland, a city marked by deep-seated and violent conflict. What if you could discover the tools to bridge the chasm between deeply divided groups? As we navigate the geographical split between the Catholics and Protestants, symbolized by a river bisecting the city, we're driven to reflect on our own relational divisions. The tumult of 2020, compounded by the pandemic, has only strained relationships further. It's time we took a step towards mending these rifts.Join us as we strive to initiate and pacify conflicts with the grace and patience embodied by Jesus. We'll explore how to initiate those challenging conversations, while offering the other party ample time to process the discussion. In learning to be patient with ourselves and our evolution, we cultivate resilience. As we journey towards building bridges, we draw inspiration from the Peace Bridge in Londonderry. It stands not just as an architectural marvel, but as a testament to peace and unity amidst division. We'll glean insights into Jesus's role as a peacemaker, learn how to foster trust and relationships, even in the face of hurt and division. By the end of this series, we hope you will be equipped with the tools to reach out to someone you've been estranged from, and initiate peace.Support the show

Are you ready to break the chains of pain with the power of forgiveness? Prepare to journey with us as we navigate the complex terrain of forgiveness, discussing its potent impact on mending relationships and its role in emotional healing and spiritual growth. Together, we'll shatter the misconceptions surrounding forgiveness, reinforcing that it isn't about forgetting or justifying someone's actions, nor is it synonymous with immediate trust. Drawing from the profound teachings of Jesus, we invite you to redefine your view of forgiveness. Venture further into the realm of forgiveness as we spotlight the enormous strength it brings and how it serves as a pathway to liberation. We'll discuss the brave decision to forgive, illuminating how it can be a constant, even hour-by-hour choice, and the importance of focusing on God's mercy rather than dwelling on the pain inflicted by others. Join us in a special prayer session, seeking divine guidance to center our thoughts on forgiveness. Brace yourself for a transformative exploration that will undoubtedly lead to emotional healing and spiritual growth.Support the show

What if the most difficult part of restoring a relationship wasn’t mending the broken bond, but rather admitting that you were wrong? This episode is a deep dive into the human psychology behind being wrong and how our denial can often lead to more heartache and destruction than the initial mistake. We examine the compelling story of a cult from the book "Mistakes Were Made (But Not By Me)," whose faith in their leader only strengthened after their doomsday predictions failed. Admitting our mistakes is a difficult yet necessary step in restoring our relationships and maintaining our sanity.Relationships, like ships, require constant attention and direction. An unattended ship will inevitably head towards an iceberg, much like unprocessed emotions can bring about the downfall of a relationship. Despite the effort required, we argue that working to restore relationships is a worthwhile endeavor. But what happens when a relationship is damaged beyond repair? We've got you covered there too, offering insights on navigating these choppy waters.As we wrap up, we look towards self-awareness as our guiding star. Drawing from the teachings of Jesus and interpretations of Dallas Willard, we provide a fresh perspective on mending relationships through self-awareness. Moreover, we discuss practical steps to help nurture this skill, emphasizing the importance of approaching this journey with humility and grace. We believe self-awareness, though often overlooked, is a key ingredient in fostering connection and restoration. So, join us as we uncover the power of admitting our wrongs, nurturing our relationships, and embracing self-awareness. No matter how broken our bonds may be, remember, it's never too late for restoration.Support the show