The Living Waters Podcast

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar dive into the life of John the Baptist, His life is one of profound humility, unwavering faith, and a steadfast commitment to God's purpose. John the Baptist, a humble man clothed in camel hair, was a voice in the wilderness, pointing out people's transgressions and preparing the way for Jesus. He exemplified humility, saying he must decrease so the Lord could increase.John’s ministry pointed to Jesus, showing us our role in doing the same. In the Old Testament, high priests offered sacrifices to cover sins temporarily, but Jesus, whom John called the Lamb of God, came to take away sins permanently. When Elizabeth, John’s mother, and Mary, Jesus’ mother, greeted each other, John leaped in Elizabeth’s womb, showing that life and joy exist even before birth. This demonstrates that even a fetus is made in God's image. John worshiped his Creator even in the womb, illustrating the sanctity of life.The guys touch on how John preached repentance, a message often resisted both in his day and in ours. Repentance should not be seen as a threat but as an invitation to return to our Creator. Understanding the death that comes with sin highlights the necessity of repentance, which is a joyous and beautiful return to God. True repentance produces visible fruit in one's life.John declared that he was not worthy to carry Jesus' sandals, contrasting with some modern preachers who seek to build their own followings. He reminded people that they must decrease for Christ to increase, exemplifying humility by acknowledging his unworthiness compared to Jesus. Even when John baptized Jesus, he felt unworthy.Later, John asked Jesus if He was the awaited Savior, a moment that may seem like doubt. Despite John's early recognition of Jesus and his role in baptizing Him, he experienced uncertainty before his execution. Jesus reassured him, calling John the greatest born of woman. The guys emphasize that the strength of  John’s faith didn't save him; it was the strength of its object—Jesus. We must decide whether to be offended by Christ or to bow to Him, recognizing that our spirit should desire to have sin removed.John preached God's law fearlessly, even before a king. The king ultimately commanded his beheading, showing that sin seeks to destroy truth and conviction. John’s fate is a reminder of sin’s destructive power and the need for unwavering commitment to God’s truth. John the Baptist's life was a testament to decreasing so that Christ could be seen. We should follow his example, living lives full of Christ to glorify God, for He is worthy of all.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar dive into the life of Lot. Despite his failures, 2 Peter calls Lot righteous, highlighting the need to understand the gospel. Abram and Lot parted ways because the land couldn't support both of them. Lot chose the plain of Jordan, settling in Sodom, known for its wickedness. This decision reflects the danger of being drawn away from the Lord by our desires. Wise decisions and heartfelt prayer are crucial, and trusting God's wisdom over our own is essential. Lot compromised his views, a theme common among many pastors today. Compromise can start in small areas, leading us away from GodLot's choice parallels the rebellion seen in Cain and Abel's story. He left God's promises for his desires, leading to captivity. Abraham rescued Lot, perhaps a divine opportunity for Lot to leave Sodom, but he persisted. When sojourners visited Sodom, Lot insisted they stay with him, aware of the city's dangers. The men of Sodom shamelessly sought to harm the visitors, reflecting the unashamed sin prevalent today. Church membership is important because of the shamelessness of our society. Welcoming unbelievers shouldn't mean compromising on sin. Christians must remember their past and separate from sinful influences while engaging with the world. Lot's compromise, seen in his use of agape love towards the attackers, shows the dangers of sin.The men tried to break into Lot's house, but they were struck blind and unable to find the door. The guys talk about how God allows people to pursue their sinful desires, leading to reprobate minds. Despite their blindness, the men persisted, reflecting a growing societal attitude. Lot was told to leave Sodom, but he hesitated, showing delayed obedience. Believers must trust God's commands without delay. Sin is deadly, and sometimes God must forcefully remove us from it. Sodom and Gomorrah's destruction with fire and brimstone serves as a stark warning.Lot's wife looked back at Sodom, turning into a pillar of salt, showing her attachment to the sinful city. Abraham's prayer for Lot's salvation exemplifies intercessory prayer. The covenant with Abraham declared Lot righteous, paralleling Jesus' ultimate sacrifice. Looking at Lot’s life, we see that sin has consequences even for believers. Lot's daughters, influenced by Sodom's perverse culture, committed incest which lead to the Moabites, enemies of Israel. This story emphasizes the importance of obedience to God and the repercussions of sinful choices. Believers should flee from sin and run towards the Lord.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Diligence, defined as constant and earnest effort, is increasingly rare today. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar talk about how past generations exhibited more diligence due to fewer distractions; news came from stagnant newspapers rather than incessant digital media. Modern distractions are leading us into a state of spiritual oblivion, making it crucial to prioritize goals and establish systems to achieve them. Proverbs warns against laziness, underscoring the connection between diligence and fruitfulness. Achieving anything requires hard work, persistence, and common sense.A disciplined life involves intentionally creating time and space for fellowship with God, not as a checklist but as a way to fulfill our roles meaningfully. Understanding your role, knowing your limits, and planning ahead are vital. Drafting a vision statement based on scripture helps set up effective routines. Our minds are shaped by what we fill them with, and much of our attention is stolen by distractions. Living to glorify God requires diligent attention to our spiritual lives.The importance of rising early and dedicating the first part of the day to the Lord is emphasized by the guys. While sleep is a gift from God, habits must be examined and adjusted to prioritize time with Him. Deep fellowship with the Lord is essential for a meaningful life, and waking up with purpose can help avoid laziness. Proverbs also warns against slothfulness, noting that our habits shape our hearts. If Christ isn't at the center of our habits, we will stray. Lack of joy and fullness in life often indicates the need for spiritual realignment.Reading the Bible daily and exploring John Wesley’s journal, which showcases his time-maximizing diligence, can inspire steadfastness. Wesley's eternal mindset and efficient use of his day highlight the preciousness of time. Remaining diligent and steadfast, practicing spiritual disciplines, and focusing on God’s kingdom are crucial for impactful Christian living. Worldly diligence, if redirected towards Christ, could greatly benefit the church. Jesus valued energetic action and generosity, favoring peacemakers over peacekeepers.Living Waters ministry exemplifies diligence born out of devotion. Christians should be the most diligent people, recognizing the greatness of their work and the shortness of time. Working diligently for the Lord is fulfilling. Those who have been lazy should repent and reduce their consumption of worldly things, redirecting their focus towards serving God with dedication.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar are talking about Samuel, the last judge and first prophet of Israel, who stands as a figure of profound significance in biblical history. Born to Hannah, who had fervently prayed for a child due to her infertility, Samuel's very existence was a testament to the power of prayer and God's faithfulness in answering it. Dedicated to temple service from infancy as a result of his mother's vow.One of the most recognizable stories from Samuel's life is his initial encounter with God's calling, where he mistook God’s voice for that of Eli, the high priest. This moment carries profound spiritual symbolism, suggesting the necessity of discernment and repentance before fully embracing one's identity as a child of God. This theme resonates with the personal testimonies shared among the guys, particularly Oscar's journey from ignorance of the Bible to a profound embrace of its teachings.Samuel's early prophetic message, condemning Eli's failure in parental guidance and the subsequent corruption of his sons, underscores the importance of discipline rooted in love and grounded in the law. The guys emphasize the critical role of parents in instilling moral and spiritual values in their children, ensuring their steadfastness in the face of temptation and sin. Despite witnessing the consequences of Eli's shortcomings firsthand, Samuel unwittingly repeats similar errors by appointing his own corrupt sons as judges. This narrative highlights the insidious nature of sin and the imperative of heeding God’s instruction.Israel did not trust in God to lead them, so they demanded a king. Samuel anointing David, a shepherd boy, as king is symbolic of God's sovereignty in choosing the seemingly insignificant to fulfill His purposes. This underscores a recurring motif in biblical narratives, where God looks at the heart of a man instead of the outward appearance. Israel's demand for a king shows how, yet again, they did not trust in the Lord to lead them. Saul's subsequent disobedience and downfall serve as a warning against the dangers of pride and self-reliance, illustrating the devastating effects of sin.In Samuel's roles as priest and prophet one can discern foreshadowings of Jesus Christ. Ultimately, the stories of Samuel and other Old Testament figures are not merely historical anecdotes or moral allegories but integral components of God's grand narrative of redemption and reconciliation. Samuel's life serves as a poignant reminder of God's faithfulness, human frailty, and the enduring hope of salvation offered through Christ.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Developing godly discernment is essential in navigating the complexities of truth and falsehood, particularly amidst the plethora of false teachings in modern times. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar bring up Psalm 119:66, and how it beautifully compares discernment to tasting, implying a gradual refinement of perception. Just as one's palate adjusts to appreciate the nuances of coffee beyond its initial bitterness, believers are encouraged to allow Scripture to shape their worldview, enabling them to distinguish what is good and true from what is deceitful or harmful.Discernment encompasses both the use of senses and intellect, allowing people to perceive and judge rightly. In today's culture, where moral relativism often blurs the lines between good and evil, the need for discernment is incredibly important. This underscores the importance of humility before God, as pride can obstruct growth and hinder one's ability to receive correction or repentance. Humility fosters an openness to learning and a willingness to acknowledge one's blind spots, essential for spiritual growth.Moreover, cultivating discernment is not a solitary endeavor but thrives within the context of community, particularly within the framework of a local church. A supportive community provides accountability and encouragement, aiding believers in their journey of discernment. The guys encourage believers to invest  in relationships with fellow believers allowing for the sharpening of discernment through dialogue and mutual edification.Love for others is deeply intertwined with discernment, as it enables believers to serve one another and strive for blamelessness before God. Effective evangelism also hinges on discernment, particularly in using the law to reveal sin, as exemplified by Jesus. By meditating on Scripture and seeking to understand God's will, believers deepen their discernment and align themselves more closely with His purposes. Wisdom, often synonymous with discernment, often isn’t pursued with the same fervor that people often use to pursue material gain. Wisdom guides leadership and influences decision-making, helping individuals avoid folly and harm. Learning from the mistakes of others and seeking wise counsel are crucial aspects of cultivating discernment and avoiding pitfalls.In conclusion, in an age marked by information overload but a scarcity of wisdom, prioritizing godly discernment is imperative for believers. By anchoring themselves in Scripture, humbling themselves before God, and fostering relationships within the body of Christ, believers can navigate the complexities of life with clarity and integrity.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Today Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar are talking about the Old Testament prophet Elijah. Elijah, who emerges abruptly in the narrative of 1 Kings 17, was a prophet in a tumultuous time in Israel’s history. James later portrays him as a man of profound prayer, highlighting God's responsiveness to earnest supplication. His prayer for a drought, remarkably answered by God, stands as a testament to his unshakeable trust in the Lord’s provision. Despite the trials of obedience, God faithfully sustains His servants, using challenges to shape them in the likeness of His Son.Elijah's confrontation with idol worship underscores his bold and unwavering commitment to God's sovereignty. The guys talk about Elijah’s challenge that he presented to the prophets of Baal. This showdown starkly contrasts false worship with the true power of the Almighty. While Baal's prophets resort to self-inflicted suffering in futile attempts to invoke their god's favor, Elijah demonstrates that the one true God requires no such sacrifices, for Jesus has already offered the ultimate sacrifice on the cross.In response to the failure of Baal’s prophets, Elijah, in a dramatic display of God’s power, Elijah constructs an altar and calls upon God to consume it with fire. Despite digging a trench around it and dousing it with water, God's response is swift and undeniable, affirming His supremacy over all idols. This act of faith not only showcases Elijah's unwavering trust but also serves as a reminder of the limitless power of the God he serves.However, Elijah's subsequent flight, prompted by Queen Jezebel's threats, unveils his humanity and vulnerability. Despite his triumph over the prophets of Baal, fear and despair got to him, leading him to plea with God for death. Yet, even in his darkest moment, Elijah acknowledges God's sovereignty over life and death, refusing to take matters into his own hands. His struggle serves as a poignant reminder of the reality of depression and the importance of clinging to hope in God's unwavering care.Ultimately, Elijah's story encapsulates the ebb and flow of faith and human frailty. Through triumphs and trials, God remains steadfast, revealing Himself not solely in thunderous displays but in gentle whispers of grace. Elijah's journey exemplifies the enduring truth that our hope must rest in the Lord, who sustains us through every storm and strengthens us for every trial. In a world plagued by hopelessness, God stands as our beacon of hope, ever faithful and able to see us through.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss the challenges of being in a relationship where one is unequally yoked with a non-believer. They emphasize the importance of shared faith in marriage to avoid spiritual compromise and conflict. The guests highlight the dangers of marrying outside the faith, such as hindering spiritual growth and causing practical challenges in living a Christian life. They also address the issue of pornography and its impact on relationships, stressing the need to prioritize God's will over personal desires.

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar are stepping into the world of virtual reality (VR). VR is a technology that transports users into digital worlds. Mark's enthusiasm for his experience with the new Apple Vision Pro exemplifies the excitement surrounding this emerging technology. However, alongside the excitement, concerns have been voiced, expressing both a fascination with technology and reservations about its potential consequences.One of the primary concerns the guys raise is the possibility of VR leading to increased isolation. The worry is that instead of going out into the world, people may retreat into the confines of VR, substituting human connection with digital experiences. This poses a challenge for Christians, who are called to engage with the world and share the gospel. Ray draws parallels between the rise of social media and the potential pitfalls of widespread VR adoption. While social media has its merits, facilitating global connectivity and communication, it has also been associated with increased feelings of loneliness and detachment from real-life relationships. VR, with its heightened immersive qualities, has the potential to exacerbate these issues. The guys discuss some pitfalls of VR, the first being the allocation of time. VR can consume time that could otherwise be spent serving the church and spreading the gospel. This raises questions about priorities and discernment in the use of technology. In VR, users have the freedom to customize avatars, representing themselves in digital form. While this offers a level of freedom and creativity, there's a danger of individuals becoming emotionally attached to these virtual personas, leading to a disconnect from their true selves and the identity given to them by God. Additionally, in VR, users can engage in activities that would be socially unacceptable in the real world, without fear of consequence. This anonymity fosters a culture of hidden sin, where individuals may indulge in destructive behaviors without accountability.Ray acknowledges that VR could be used as a tool for evangelizing. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a discerning approach. Churches may explore VR outreach initiatives, but they must be vigilant in safeguarding against spiritual detachment and prioritizing genuine human connection. Ultimately, the key lies in exercising discernment and accountability in the use of VR technology. By approaching VR with wisdom, individuals and communities can navigate its complexities and harness its benefits while safeguarding against its potential pitfalls.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

The podcast discusses the definition of sin as rebellion against God, its deceptive allure, and the importance of recognizing and combating it. It emphasizes the need for community in identifying blind spots and standing firm against false teachings. The core of sin lies in disordered love, redirecting affections towards Christ for true transformation. The chapter highlights the ongoing battle with sin, the deceptive nature of sin, and practical strategies to resist its lure through seeking accountability and engaging with supportive communities.

The church often finds itself grappling with the challenge of discerning true believers among a sea of professed believers. Like Adam in the garden, the prodigal son didn’t realize what he had until he was sitting in the pigsty. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar focus on two types of prodigals: those who have strayed yet remain under the umbrella of salvation, and those who have yet to find redemption. Central to this discussion is the doctrine of eternal security, and the guys unanimously assert the irrevocability of salvation.Generally the cause of drifting away from the faith is in the heart, not the brain. This introspective journey confronts believers with the reality of their devotion, urging them to move beyond mere cognitive acknowledgment toward a genuine, transformative relationship with Christ.A poignant dilemma plaguing many congregations today is the absence of church discipline— a practice rooted in biblical illiteracy and a reluctance to confront sin. This reluctance is compounded by the perception of discipline as a punishment rather than a restorative act. True biblical discipline is a manifestation of love, seeking the repentance and restoration of the soul. Scripture states that sparing your child from discipline will spoil them, and this serves as an analogy for the nature of discipline within the church. Just as a loving parent disciplines their child, the church discipline its members out of love and concern.The process of church discipline is imbued with grace—a concept often misunderstood in contemporary Christian discourse. It is not an act of condemnation but a redemptive endeavor aimed at guiding individuals back into the fold of God's grace. At the heart of effective church discipline lies a profound understanding of grace. Grace confronts sin yet extends mercy, and disciplines yet restores. It is a grace that mirrors God’s, seeking to emulate God's redemptive love in every aspect.Ultimately, the church's mission extends far beyond the walls of its sanctuaries. It encompasses the pursuit of prodigals, both within and beyond its fold. It is a mission grounded in love, propelled by grace, and animated by the unwavering conviction that no soul is beyond the reach of God's saving grace. In summary, the church's pursuit of authenticity in discipleship, coupled with a commitment to biblical discipline rooted in love and grace, serves as a beacon of hope in a world rife with spiritual uncertainty. It is a call to embrace the transformative power of grace and extend it to all who stand in need of redemption.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro