Simplify: Being

When Jason's grandfather, the actor-turned-pastor, would speak, his voice would resonate with a conviction that could only come from a lifetime of faith and prayer. In this heartfelt episode, we honor his legacy and explore the enigmatic force that underpins our spiritual journey: prayer. Together, we dissect what it means to align our pleas with God's will, taking cues from Jesus and Paul's teachings, and inviting you to reflect on how prayer molds your life story.

There's nothing quite like the echo of an 'emptiness statue' in our quiet moments of struggle; it's something Jason has come to know intimately. Sharing candid tales of his personal battles, Jason pulls back the curtain on the solace he found in Scripture, particularly in the notion of the Lord as a fortress in times of trepidation. We discuss the role of prayer in seeking divine support, especially when our emotional reserves are depleted, offering an honest depiction of the raw supplications that have been Jason's lifelines in the face of life's tempests.

Life's trying seasons often teach us the most valuable lessons, and this episode is a testament to that hard-earned wisdom. A pivotal conversation with a friend leads us through a labyrinth of growth opportunities that life's challenges present, urging us to decipher the lessons God imparts. We close with an encouraging note on the virtues of patience and hope, inspired by David's example, and share a prayer that seeks the courage to wait for the manifestation of the Lord's goodness in our lives. Join us as we seek understanding, courage, and the perseverance to believe in the promises of tomorrow.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

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New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Have you ever found yourself reminiscing about the simplicity of childhood prayers only to realize they don't quite stand up to the challenges of adulthood? That's exactly what we're tackling here at Madison Church Online, as Stephen Feith leads us through the evolution of prayer life in the latest chapter of our series. From the earnest nighttime rituals of our youth to the deep, soul-searching conversations we engage with God as adults, we're peeling back the layers on how our faith matures and adapts alongside us.

This week, I take you down memory lane, sharing a comical yet poignant high school escapade involving teenage crushes, mechanical mishaps, and the earnest prayers of a young heart. Imagine the soundtrack of Simple Plan setting the mood as I recount the tale of my not-so-reliable truck, my attempts to woo Heather, and the lessons learned when life throws you a curveball. It's a story that teaches us about the consequences of our actions and the true nature of prayer—not just as a way to make requests, but as a foundation for growth and reflection.

As we close this episode, we delve into the practical integration of prayer and action in our daily lives. The message is clear: our prayers should fuel our deeds, reflecting a faith that's both spoken and shown. Whether it's working on personal relationships, engaging in community service, or advocating for peace, we're called to embody the spirit of Jesus through authenticity and action. So, as you set out into your week, I encourage you to embrace these insights and let them shape a more intentional, active faith journey.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

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New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Have you ever considered the profound impact of prayer on the ordinary moments of your life, or how it evolves as we grow? Picture this: a speeding scare on Kentucky backroads turns into an unexpected reflection on faith for me, my dad, and our church friends amidst the backdrop of bourbon distillery tours and rare bottle 'hunts.' Our latest episode is a heartfelt recount of these experiences, coupled with an honest confession of my own speeding habits and how they led to a spontaneous prayer for reprieve.

This journey isn't just about bourbon; it's about the camaraderie that comes from shared trials and the lessons learned in faith. We discuss the evolution of prayer from childhood to adulthood, unpacking how misconceptions can skew our understanding and make us feel like unanswered prayers are personal failures. Through candid conversations, we confront these myths head-on, striving to reshape our practice of prayer into one that reinforces our faith, self-esteem, and our relationship with the divine.

Lastly, we circle back to the purpose of prayer with an eye toward alignment with God's will, as taught in the Lord's Prayer. We tackle the difficult subject of approaching God as the ultimate parent, despite our own imperfect earthly experiences. The episode concludes with a look ahead to creating a sacred prayer space and an anticipation of future discussions on navigating the common pitfalls of prayer and the mature needs of adult prayer life. Join us for an episode that promises to deepen your connection with God through reflection and laughter.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

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New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Ever feel lost in the maze of biblical scholarship? Fear not, as my colleagues Sarah Hansen, Jason Webb, and I, Stephen Feith, light the way through varying approaches to Bible study and engagement. Sarah dispels the myth of 'right time' Bible study with her eclectic blend of podcasts and casual reading, while Jason draws from his predawn moments of peace, steeped in the Psalms. I share how Jesus' teachings in the Gospels offer a daily compass for my life, illustrating that whether in the quiet dawn or the midst of life's hustle, scripture speaks.

But what about the voices around us? Our latest discussion opens the floor to the indispensable role of community in biblical interpretation. Together, we navigate the tightrope between honoring scripture and avoiding its deification, promoting a narrative that invites us into larger conversations rather than ending them. We invite you to consider the beauty of divine communication through arts and expressions beyond the written word, and to engage in a faith that recognizes the presence of God in unexpected places.

Dive into history with us as we unpack the canonization of the Bible—a tale of divine inspiration interwoven with human decision-making. We provide reassurance that the core tenets of Christianity stand firm despite the human hands that assembled these sacred texts. The session rounds off with a look at how this process of canonization influences faith communities, including our own at Madison Church in 2024, reminding us of the human touch in our spiritual journey and its significance for believers today. Join us for an enriching exploration that acknowledges our collective role in the story of faith.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

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New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Our latest episode is a captivating journey through the complexities of these narratives, drawing parallels that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for both. We start by unpacking the beginning of everything, the fall of man, and God's unwavering master plan. The Bible's grand tale, from Genesis to Revelation, is broken down into digestible segments, revealing the purpose of our existence and the ripple effects of our choices.

As the plot thickens, we move beyond mere spectacle to the heart of the matter: our active role in the divine drama. I navigate the treacherous waters of consumerism in today's church and how it clashes with our mission as believers. Our conversation is a wake-up call, urging us to reject passivity and instead, engage fully in the narrative of redemption and restoration. Madison Church stands as a testament to this calling, and as we celebrate its 10th anniversary, we delve into what makes this community a beacon of hope and collaboration.

Finally, we wrap up by inviting you to become co-authors of this ongoing epic. Madison Church's decade of dedication to fellowship and service sets the stage for a call to action. Whether you're a seasoned believer or simply curious, this episode is a rallying cry for everyone to join in the work of fostering relationships, healing, and connecting with the divine. Tune in and discover your part in an unfolding story much greater than yourself.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

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New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Embark with us on a thought-stirring sojourn where the dusty pages of the Old Testament spring to life, revealing their enduring relevance in our personal growth and faith. We don't shy away from the tough questions as we scrutinize the complexities of scripture, challenging the simplistic narratives often taught. Our conversation takes you through the potent blend of history, ethics, and spirituality, examining the relationship between ancient texts and the moral quandaries of the contemporary world. It's a candid exploration that promises to deepen your understanding of faith amidst a tapestry of diverse beliefs and ideas.

The scriptures often come under fire for their seemingly archaic rules and the portrayal of a God starkly different from the compassionate figure of modern faith. Together, we navigate these turbulent waters, responding to critiques like those from Richard Dawkins and others who call into question the ethical implications of the Hebrew scriptures. We dissect the contrast between the mandates of old and the values we cherish today, such as the condemnation of slavery and the acceptance of tattoos, offering insights to equip you for the conversations that matter about the Bible's role in today's society.

Finally, we consider the transformative impact of Jesus' teachings on our contemporary understanding of God's word. The monumental shift from the Old to the New Covenant is not just theological discourse but a call to action, urging us to emulate Christ's example of unconditional love and self-sacrifice. This episode is an invitation to shift your perspective from the legalistic adherence to ancient texts to a dynamic, love-centered approach to faith and community. Join us as we dissect these profound themes, ensuring you walk away with a renewed vision for engaging with the scriptures and the world around you.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

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New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Have you ever tried to communicate something important, only to end up in a tangle of confusion? That's exactly what happened when Sarah hinted to Chris about not wanting to make dinner, which somehow translated into a mix-up involving Jimmy John's. It's the perfect segue into our profound exploration of Genesis, where we unravel the rich tapestry of creation narratives and their dance with scientific thought. We bypass the pitfalls of misinterpretation and plunge into the heart of what Genesis really aims to tell us, considering not just the dawn of the cosmos and humanity, but the very foundation of the Hebrew nation.

Against the backdrop of passionate and often polarized debates, this episode zooms in on the pivotal truth that God is the creator, infusing the universe with intent and purpose beyond our human timelines. With the help of new insights from the James Webb Space Telescope stirring the scientific community, we examine the parallels between the faith we place in science and religion. This conversation culminates in a moving discussion on the 'why' of creation, emphasizing the primacy of love and the original messages within religious texts, steering us away from the divisiveness of legalism and toward a more unified understanding of our existence.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

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New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Ever wondered about the complex journey of the Bible from ancient manuscripts to the book on your nightstand? Join me, Stephen Feith, as we traverse this historical landscape, piecing together the remarkable story of the scriptures. We dive into the Bible's origins and its enduring narrative—a narrative that centers around the figure of Jesus, whose life reshaped history and whose teachings have transcended generations. This episode promises to deepen your understanding of the Bible's compilation and the profound impact of oral traditions in preserving the story of Christianity's cornerstone.

Could the New Testament's claims about Jesus withstand the scrutiny of historical inquiry? We examine the robust evidence supporting the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, acknowledging the challenges and affirming the extraordinary nature of his story. As followers of Christ, we are often called to defend the faith against skeptics, and this episode equips you with the historical context and archaeological findings that underscore the reliability of the Gospel accounts. We'll also discuss how the early Church Fathers' writings contribute to our confidence in the New Testament, even in the absence of the original texts.

This episode is not just about learning; it's about transforming our engagement with the Bible into a personal and enriching experience. We acknowledge the pressures and expectations that can sometimes make scripture reading feel like a chore, and instead, invite you to rediscover the scriptures as a story that includes you—a narrative of a God who loves deeply. Let the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ remind us that the Bible is not a source of burden but a gateway to a personal, meaningful connection with the divine. Join us for a thoughtful journey that aims to mature your faith and refresh your perspective on the world's most influential book.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

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New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Have you ever caught a whiff of a familiar scent, and it instantly transported you back in time? This week at Madison Church, we're joined by a special guest, Rev. Abbie Sawczak, and together we venture into the heart of spiritual growth. We'll reflect on the beauty of abiding in Christ, as she recounts the journey from her transformative campus ministry years in Madison to the present day, diving into how personal stories and biblical narratives intertwine to reveal the fragrant trail we can leave by walking in faith.

Navigating the spiritual realm can be akin to traversing a winding road, but through our discussion, we'll explore how practices like 'dwelling' and 'submitting' provide the seatbelts we need for the ride. Our conversation takes a turn into the garden of our hearts, where we grasp the importance of being pruned by the Gardener's hand, a necessary pain for the blossoming of our souls. Join us as we stitch together the wisdom from the Bible and the lived experiences that teach us the importance of letting go, obedience, and fostering community, vital elements for nurturing a spiritual life that thrives.

As we close our soulful exchange, we draw inspiration from the deep yearning King David expresses in Psalm 27:4 for God's presence. Abbie shares about her aunt's valiant encounter with ALS, demonstrating that while abiding in Christ may not alter our circumstances, it profoundly transforms our prayers and desires. We discuss pragmatic ways to deepen your walk with Jesus, and the peace that stems from a life rooted in God's unwavering presence. Embark with us on this journey toward a more intimate relationship with Christ, where the fruits of his spirit become the harvest of our existence.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
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New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.

Have your New Year's resolutions fizzled out in the flurry of life's demands? Let's rekindle that spark of transformation together. In our latest episode, we navigate the tempest of personal change, invoking the rhythms of chronobiology and the sweet promise of Mondays as beacons for a fresh start. We ponder the elements that snag our focus—be it the tug of love, the weight of financial woes, or the embrace of family—and how they might be steering us away from the growth we yearn for. I share insights to help you recalibrate your attention, empowering you to pursue meaningful metamorphosis at any time of year.

Then, take a stroll with me through the cobblestoned paths of ancient Jerusalem, as we recount a unique tale from Jesus' youth. Discover how a moment of parental panic during Passover reveals the eternal thread of familial concern that connects us across millennia. No guide or historian needed here; the story of Jesus lost in the temple not only illuminates the cultural backdrop of Biblical times but also reflects our own parenting struggles today. This episode invites you to find echoes of your own life in the age-old narrative of a quest for understanding, both divine and earthly.

To close, we hear a stirring testimony from a 98-year-old stalwart of faith whose life's journey with Jesus Christ has been nothing short of inspirational. Whether you view Jesus as a historical icon, a guiding star, or the cornerstone of salvation, this personal account shines a light on the enduring legacy of belief and the profound comfort it can offer, challenging us to reflect on our own legacy and beliefs. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of faith, identity, and the steadfastness of spiritual companionship.

If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing to Madison Church on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback means the world to us, so please take a moment to leave a review and share the podcast with your friends and family.

For inquiries, suggestions, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us at help@madisonchurch.com.

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content, follow us on social media:

• Facebook
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• YouTube

New episodes are released every Monday, so mark your calendars and join us weekly!

If you'd like to support the show, you can make a donation here. Your generosity helps us continue to bring you meaningful content.

This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only. The views expressed by the hosts or guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Madison Church. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. For detailed information regarding our terms of use and privacy policy, please visit our website.

Thank you for being part of the Madison Church community! We appreciate your support.