Doug’s Coffee Break

How do we handle differences in convictions among Christians? In this episode, we explore Paul’s guidance in Romans 14, focusing on the importance of self-examination, respecting others’ consciences, and fostering unity in matters of personal conviction.

What does it mean for Christ to be our Judge? In this episode, we delve into Romans 14 and unpack Paul’s teaching on why Christians should avoid judging one another, the significance of Christ’s judgment seat, and how it shapes our accountability to God.

"Can Christians disagree on special days or personal practices? In this episode, we unpack Romans 14 and explore Paul’s teaching on individual accountability to God, the freedom of conscience, and living in a way that honors the Lord."

In this episode, we unpack Romans 14:1–4, where Paul calls for unity among believers with differing convictions. Using the example of dietary choices, he challenges us to avoid judgment or contempt, remembering that all Christians are accountable to God alone. Join us as we explore what it means to accept one another as God has accepted us.

In this episode, we dive into Romans 13:13–14, where Paul challenges believers to leave behind the “deeds of darkness” and embrace a lifestyle worthy of the light. We’ll discuss what it means to clothe ourselves with Christ, resist sinful desires, and live in holiness as we prepare for His return.

In this episode, we explore Paul’s powerful metaphor of night and day in Romans. He calls believers to live as soldiers of light, prepared for Christ’s return by rejecting sin and embracing righteousness. Join us as we unpack what it means to walk in the light and live with vigilance, hope, and purpose in anticipation of the "day" to come.

In this episode, we delve into Paul’s call for spiritual vigilance in Romans. As the return of Christ draws closer, believers are urged to “wake up” and live with urgency, expressing divine love in every moment. Join us as we explore the connection between active faith and the hope of final salvation.

n this episode, we explore Paul’s teaching in Romans on the “continuing debt” of love. Discover how love fulfills the Law, surpassing mere rule-following to embody the heart of God’s commands. We’ll unpack Paul’s use of the Ten Commandments and his call to reflect Christ’s transformative love in all relationships.

What does the Bible say about a Christian’s responsibility to civil authorities? In this episode, we explore Romans 13 and Matthew 22 to unpack why obedience, paying taxes, and showing respect are integral to faith. Discover how honoring leaders aligns with God’s plan for governance.

In this episode, we dive into Paul’s view of civil authorities as God’s servants, tasked with promoting good and restraining evil. Paul taught that Christians should respect these leaders, not only to avoid punishment but to honor their conscience before God. Join us as we explore how this perspective shapes the Christian approach to government, justice, and moral responsibility.

In this episode, we explore Paul’s teachings on the Christian’s relationship with government, focusing on his letter to the Romans. Writing to believers in Nero’s Rome, Paul encouraged respect for civil authorities, viewing them as part of God’s order. We’ll discuss how this foundational New Testament teaching shaped early Christian views on obedience, authority, and dual citizenship in Christ’s kingdom and the world.

In this episode, we dive into Paul’s message in Romans 12:17–21, where he advises believers to resist retaliation and leave justice to God. Using the example of David sparing Saul, Paul underscores responding to enemies with kindness, a choice that may inspire repentance. We’ll unpack the idea of “heaping burning coals” as a metaphor for encouraging remorse through love, and explore how this teaching aligns with Jesus' call to “love your enemies.”

This episode unpacks Paul’s teachings on responding to hostility with peace and integrity. Instead of retaliating, believers are called to act with honor and strive for harmony with everyone, while recognizing that peace may not always be possible. Paul’s message reinforces a commitment to peace that aligns with Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness and reconciliation.

n this episode, we explore Paul’s guidance on responding to others with empathy and humility. Paul encourages believers to bless those who persecute them, share in others' joys and sorrows, and avoid pride—all essential steps for building genuine connections in the Christian community and beyond.

In this episode, we dive into Paul’s guidance on caring for fellow believers, focusing on sharing resources and practicing hospitality. Drawing from the early church’s example, Paul emphasizes the importance of meeting each other’s needs and welcoming strangers with kindness, showcasing how generosity and community are central to the Christian life.

In this episode, we dive into Romans 12:11-12, exploring Paul’s advice for building an appealing faith. From staying diligent and passionate in serving God to embracing joy, patience, and a steady prayer life, these verses outline the attitudes that help believers live out their faith meaningfully and attractively.

In this episode, we explore Romans 12:9-10, where Paul outlines what it means to love sincerely in the Christian life. From hating evil and clinging to good, to fostering a deep, familial affection among believers, Paul’s words remind us how genuine love goes beyond feelings, impacting how we honor and care for each other in community. Join us for insights on practicing a love that’s both honest and devoted.

In this episode, we dive into Romans 12:6-8, where Paul encourages believers to use their unique, God-given gifts in service to others. We break down the seven specific gifts he lists and explore how each one contributes to building up the church in meaningful ways, from teaching to generosity and mercy. Join us as we unpack how these "grace-gifts" are meant to be used with sincerity, diligence, and joy for the unity of the church.

In this episode, we dive into Paul's teaching on humility and spiritual gifts within the body of Christ. He reminds believers not to think too highly of themselves, but to exercise their gifts with sober judgment, recognizing that all abilities come from God. Using the analogy of a physical body, Paul emphasizes the importance of each member serving the whole, highlighting the unity and diversity within the Church.

In this episode, we dive into Romans 12, where Paul urges believers to offer their lives as living sacrifices to God. We explore what it means to be transformed by the renewal of our minds, moving away from worldly patterns and embracing God’s will. Join us as we unpack how this transformation leads to a life that is holy, pleasing, and perfectly aligned with God's purpose.