Living Words

Charles

"Living Words" is a weekly podcast that explores the transformative power of scripture across a diverse range of Biblical books, guided by insightful devotionals from the author's own works. Each episode seeks to deepen faith and understanding, connecting listeners with the enduring wisdom and relevance of the Bible in their daily lives.

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Religion & SpiritualityReligion & Spirituality

Episodes

In His Footsteps Week 9: Walking on Water
Today
In His Footsteps Week 9: Walking on Water
In this intriguing episode of "In His Footsteps," host Charles Vance delves into the captivating narrative of Jesus, or Yeshua, walking on water, focusing on John 6:16-21. The episode opens with a heartfelt prayer, setting a reverent tone as Vance explores the profound implications of this miracle. He highlights Jesus's mastery over nature, demonstrated as He calmly walks across the stormy Sea of Galilee to meet His disciples. This act not only underscores His divinity but also serves as a powerful metaphor for His ability to guide us through life's tumultuous "seas."Vance draws attention to the disciples' initial fear transformed into awe and acceptance, illustrating the journey of faith from doubt to trust. He emphasizes that Jesus's presence brings immediate relief and destination, much like the disciples' quick arrival at the shore upon welcoming Him into their boat. The theological significance of this event is thoughtfully discussed, pointing to Jesus's statement, "It is I, do not be afraid," as a declaration of His identity and a reassurance that dispels fear.The episode is rich with reflection questions and personal insights, encouraging listeners to consider the role of faith in overcoming life's challenges. Vance shares his own poignant experience with cancer, reinforcing the episode's message of trust and divine intervention. He concludes with powerful prayers for trust and courage, inviting listeners to acknowledge and welcome Jesus's calming presence in their lives.Overall, this episode not only explores a biblical miracle but also offers listeners a deeper understanding of faith's role in navigating life's storms, making it a spiritually enriching experience.Get a copy of the In His Footsteps devotional here.
In His Footsteps Week 6: Healing the Royal Officials Son
May 11 2024
In His Footsteps Week 6: Healing the Royal Officials Son
In this episode of the Living Words Podcast, Charles Vance discusses the sixth week of studying the book of John through the "In His Footsteps" devotional. The focus is on John 4:46-54, which narrates the healing of the royal official's son by Jesus. Charles emphasizes the themes of faith, authority, and the inclusivity of Jesus' ministry, highlighting how Jesus' miracle transcends physical evidence and demonstrates his divine authority.Throughout the episode, Charles stresses that true faith should not rely solely on witnessing miracles but should be anchored in the trust and belief in Jesus' word. He discusses the significance of the royal official’s faith, which evolved from desperation to a deep-seated belief in Jesus' promise, impacting his entire household. Charles explores the theological implications of the narrative, including the universality of Jesus’ ministry and the power of personal testimony.He concludes with reflective questions for listeners, encouraging them to consider how the miracle deepens their understanding of Jesus' authority and challenges their own faith. Charles also offers prayers for faith, healing, and obedience, aiming to inspire listeners to trust in Jesus' word and witness to others.Overall, the podcast aims to deepen understanding and faith in Jesus through scriptural reflection and discussion, encouraging a transformative and inclusive approach to spirituality.Get a copy of the In His Footsteps devotional here.
In His Footsteps Week 5: Turning Water into Wine
May 4 2024
In His Footsteps Week 5: Turning Water into Wine
In the fifth week of the "In His Footsteps" devotional series on the "In His Words" podcast, host Charles Vance delves into the transformative miracle of Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana, as recounted in John 2:1-11. This episode explores the theological implications and the symbolic richness of Jesus' first recorded miracle, underscoring themes of transformation, new creation, and the inauguration of a new covenant. Charles highlights the significance of Jesus' intervention during a social crisis at the wedding, interpreting this as an indication of Jesus' authority over traditional rituals and His introduction of grace surpassing the old laws.The miracle at Cana not only emphasizes Jesus' divine power to transform and provide abundantly but also serves as a profound metaphor for His transformative work in the lives of believers, turning the ordinary into extraordinary. The episode further explores the roles of Mary and the servants at the wedding, illustrating the power of faith and obedience in facilitating divine actions. Jesus' miraculous transformation of water into the finest wine symbolizes the abundant life and blessings He offers, surpassing old covenant practices with new covenant grace.For those inspired by this episode and wishing to delve deeper into the life and teachings of Jesus through the "In His Footsteps" devotional series, you can purchase your copy on Amazon. This series promises to enrich your spiritual journey, offering new insights into the transformative power of faith in Christ. Let this be an invitation to explore further and embrace the changes He can make in your life. Click here to get your copy and join us in walking closely with Jesus.
In His Footsteps Week 4: John the Baptist and the First Disciples
Apr 27 2024
In His Footsteps Week 4: John the Baptist and the First Disciples
In the latest episode of the "Living Word Podcast," hosted by Charles Vance, we explore the early chapters of John's Gospel, focusing on John the Baptist and the first disciples of Jesus Christ. This episode, part of the "In His Footsteps" series, dives into John 1:19-51, bridging the Christological themes of the Gospel's Prologue with the beginnings of Jesus' earthly ministry. Vance sets the scene with a reading from the King James Version, highlighting John the Baptist's pivotal role as a herald, not the Messiah, but the voice in the wilderness preparing the way for Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.The narrative continues as we witness the first disciples being drawn to Jesus, starting with Andrew and his brother Simon, whom Jesus renames Cephas (Peter), indicating the transformative journey awaiting them. The episode beautifully contrasts Philip's immediate following with Nathanael's initial skepticism, which turns into belief upon meeting Jesus. This personal and transformative discipleship journey is underscored by promises of greater revelations, symbolized by the vision of angels ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.I invite you to join us on this enlightening journey through these profound scriptures. Reflect on the multifaceted identity of Jesus—Messiah, Lamb of God, Son of God, King of Israel—and consider the implications of each title for His mission and character. Tune in to the "Living Word Podcast" for a rich exploration of faith, identity, and witness, and let it be an invitation to deepen your own relationship with the divine. Join us to uncover new insights and embrace the transformative power of Jesus Christ. See you there!For those looking to enrich their journey, consider purchasing the devotional book "In His Footsteps" available on Amazon. Find it here: In His Footsteps on Amazon.
In His Footsteps Week 3: The WORD Became Flesh
Apr 20 2024
In His Footsteps Week 3: The WORD Became Flesh
In this episode of the "Living Word Podcast," host Charles Vance continues his exploration of the Gospel of John as part of the "In His Footsteps" devotional series. He announces that this week's focus will be on the Prologue of John, emphasizing the incarnation of Jesus Christ, whom he refers to by the Hebrew name Yeshua.Vance chooses to read from the "Restoration Scriptures, True Name, 6th Edition," which includes Paleo-Hebrew names and study notes. He highlights the significance of using the true Hebrew names for God (Yahweh) and Jesus (Yeshua), explaining that Yeshua means "salvation."During the reading, Vance discusses key theological themes such as the Word becoming flesh, the divine nature of Christ, and the light of humanity. He explains that the light represents truth and divine revelation, contrasting with darkness, which symbolizes ignorance and evil. He also touches on the role of John the Baptist as a witness to the light, aiming to lead people to belief through his testimony.The episode delves into the concept of the Word as both a creative force and the embodiment of God's wisdom, emphasizing its foundational role in Christian theology. Vance discusses the tragic rejection of the Word by the world it created, but also the grace given to those who accept and believe in it, allowing them to become children of God.Vance concludes by discussing the importance of the incarnation—God becoming flesh—as a profound expression of God’s love and a means of bridging the gap between divinity and humanity. He offers reflections and prayers that encourage embracing and understanding this mystery, and the episode ends with an invitation for listeners to reflect on how they can live out these truths in their own lives, supported by suggested prayers focused on understanding, embracing, and experiencing the Word.Throughout the podcast, Vance provides insights into the deeper meanings of the scriptures, aiming to enrich listeners' spiritual understanding and connection to the divine narrative.For those looking to enrich their journey, consider purchasing the devotional book "In His Footsteps" available on Amazon. Find it here: In His Footsteps on Amazon.
In His Footsteps Week 2: Themes of Belief and Identity with Charles Vance
Apr 13 2024
In His Footsteps Week 2: Themes of Belief and Identity with Charles Vance
Dive into the transformative journey of faith with Charles Vance in this week's Living Words Podcast. Embark on a spiritual deep dive into the heart of belief and identity, exploring the rich passages of John 1:1-18, John 3:1-21, and John 8:31-36. Charles, reading from the cherished King James Version, brings to life the timeless teachings and profound mysteries of the Word made flesh, the necessity of being born again, and the liberating truth of Jesus Christ.This episode isn't just a reading—it's an invitation to reflect on the eternal nature of Christ, the power of spiritual rebirth, and the stark contrast between light and darkness in our lives. Through thoughtful discussion and reflective questions, Charles guides us toward a deeper appreciation of our identity in Christ and the freedom found in His teachings.Whether you're seeking solace, searching for truth, or looking to deepen your faith, this 15-20 minute devotion is a perfect addition to your daily routine. It's designed to fit seamlessly into your life, offering a moment of peace, reflection, and connection with the divine.And for those looking to enrich their journey, consider purchasing the devotional book "In His Footsteps" available on Amazon. Find it here: In His Footsteps on Amazon.Join us on this path of discovery, transformation, and enlightenment. Let the Living Words Podcast be a beacon of light in your daily walk with God, illuminating the steps to live out your faith in a profound and practical way. Embrace the call to delve deeper into the Word, and see how the truths of the Scriptures can shape and inspire your life today.
In His Footsteps Week 1: Introduction to the Gospel of John
Apr 6 2024
In His Footsteps Week 1: Introduction to the Gospel of John
The inaugural episode of the "Living Words Podcast" by Charles Vance embarks on a year-long journey through the "In His Footsteps" devotional series, with an aim to deepen the spiritual connection of listeners with God. The series isn’t structured as a traditional study but as a devotional, emphasizing the importance of heart knowledge over head knowledge. Focusing on the Gospel according to John, particularly John 1:1-18, Vance discusses the essence of Jesus Christ as God incarnate, using the passage to explore foundational Christian beliefs about Jesus's divinity, his relationship with humanity, and his role as the light of the world.Vance utilizes the King James Version of the Bible, advocating its use due to its historical acceptance and the wealth of resources available for study. He delves into the passage’s themes, such as the divinity of Christ, the concept of eternal life through belief in Jesus, the significance of signs and miracles performed by Jesus as a basis for faith, the new commandment of love, and the promise of the Holy Spirit as a guide and teacher for believers.Throughout the episode, Vance provides commentary on the selected verses, emphasizing the preexistence and divine nature of Christ, the concept of incarnation, and the reception and rejection of Christ by the world. He also discusses the transformative power of embracing Jesus’s teachings and the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers towards truth and righteousness.In addition to the theological discussion, Vance offers prayers for understanding, witnessing, and gratitude, encouraging listeners to reflect on their relationship with Jesus and to live out the gospel in their daily lives. He concludes with a call to continue exploring these themes in their personal study and reflection, promising to delve deeper into the identity of Christ in the upcoming episodes.This episode sets the tone for the devotional series, presenting a comprehensive overview of key Christian doctrines and inviting listeners to engage in a personal and transformative journey of faith over the next 52 weeks.The Devotional "In His Footsteps" can be found on Amazon at this link.https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CYQD2N8Z
A Year in the Gospel of John: A Journey of Insight and Reflection with Charles Vance
Apr 2 2024
A Year in the Gospel of John: A Journey of Insight and Reflection with Charles Vance
Embark on a year-long voyage through the profound depths of the Gospel of John with me, Charles Vance, as your captain on the Living Words Podcast. We promise to deliver a weekly dose of insight and reflection that will not only deepen your knowledge of Scripture but also enhance your relationship with the divine. Let's navigate together the powerful themes of love, deity, and the incarnation, immersing ourselves in the unique perspective of the beloved disciple. We'll dissect passages, unravel their meanings, and apply the lessons to our daily lives, all while engaging in personal contemplation that fosters spiritual growth.Each episode, structured as a 30-minute Sabbath day sanctuary, offers an oasis of tranquility where we can pause and ponder the living Word. Through narrative, commentary, and thought-provoking questions, we'll challenge our understanding and seek transformation. I'll share suggested prayers for those looking to enrich their conversation with God, whether they're seasoned in faith or new to the fold. A companion devotional is available for those who wish to dive deeper, yet this journey is crafted to be fully experienced through each podcast installment alone. Join us as we commit this sacred time to spiritual study and let the Living Word reshape our hearts and minds.The Devotional "In His Footsteps" can be found on Amazon at this link.https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CYQD2N8Z