The Living Waters Podcast

As devoted Christians, our core calling is to embody the role of peacemakers, actively cultivating harmony in relationships and advocating for reconciliation between individuals and with God. Today, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss life’s inevitable challenges that attempt to disrupt our peace, but remind listeners it is within our connection with the Lord that we discover a lasting and transcendent peace.At the heart of a believer’s faith lies the understanding that God rescued us not merely from external threats but from the righteous wrath of God. This salvation is a holistic restoration of wholeness and harmony between the Creator and His creation. In response, Christians are called to emulate the obedient spirit of Christ. By doing so, we engage in the ministry of reconciliation, becoming participants in God’s ongoing project to bring shalom to a hurting world. Humility becomes a vital component in navigating our human interactions. Contrary to the cultural trends that celebrate divisiveness, the guys discuss how Scripture calls believers to resist conformity and actively pursue unity. Peacemaking is not a passive endeavor; it involves courageously confronting evil with the truth. Living peaceably does not mean the sacrifice of truth; rather, it prompts us to address conflicts with a love that seeks correction and reconciliation.Approaching conflicts in a biblically grounded manner entails seeking private resolutions rather than resorting to the public exposure prevalent on social media. Disunity undermines the credibility of the gospel and diminishes the impact of our collective witness to the world.Lack of peace within our lives should urge Christians towards self-reflection and spiritual examination. For those who claim to be born again, yet lack the peace only found in Christ, a thorough inventory of the heart and life is needed. The absence of peace for the wicked extends to the righteous who engage in wicked actions, signaling a return to the transformative presence of God is due.As believers, we are not merely recipients of peace but also agents tasked with promoting it. In moments of conflict, Christians are called to be mediators, actively working towards reconciliation and the restoration of shalom. God empowers us to walk in His peace and act as ambassadors of reconciliation, playing an integral role in the restoration of relationships and the establishment of shalom in our spheres of influence. Fulfilling this divine mandate, we become conduits through which God’s peace flows into the world, actively participating in the establishment of shalom in our communities and beyond.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

In today’s episode, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar are joined by Ken Ham, founder and CEO of Answers in Genesis (AIG), the Creation Museum, and the Ark Encounter. Accompanying him is Joe Boone, the president of AIG. The conversation delves into the rich history of AIG, a ministry devoted to biblical authority, the gospel, and upholding the authority of God’s Word. This ministry emphasizes the importance of believers being able to articulate and defend their faith.Joe Boone underscores the significance of apologetics by sharing a poignant story from his teaching experience. He highlights how unanswered questions often contribute to individuals leaving the church. The conversation encourages Christians to embrace an open dialogue about their questions, acknowledging that believers shouldn’t have a blind faith but rather a reasonable faith that can withstand scrutiny.The name “Answers in Genesis” is derived from 1 Peter 3:15, a verse that calls on Christians to always be prepared to give an answer. The ministry’s focus is on providing answers, with the realization that many of these answers are found in the book of Genesis. Genesis, specifically chapters 1-11, is considered foundational to everything, offering a worldview and essential information for building a biblical perspective.Joe Boone reflects on a transformative moment in his life that led him to his current work with AIG when he attended a homeschool convention featuring Ken Ham as the keynote speaker. Despite a personal loss, Ken delivered a powerful talk that left a lasting impact on several attendees. Ken, in turn, shares the influence of his father on his faith, highlighting his father’s commitment to the Word. He stresses the importance of parents immersing themselves in God’s Word to set a genuine example for their children.The conversation turns to the attractions in northern Kentucky: the Creation Museum and the Ark Encounter. The Creation Museum is described as a captivating walk through the Bible, featuring numerous exhibits that bring biblical narratives to life. The Ark Encounter, a full-size replica of Noah’s Ark, stands as the largest freestanding timber frame structure in the world. Both attractions serve as powerful evangelism tools, providing answers with an apologetics emphasis.Listeners are encouraged to explore the Answers in Genesis website to learn more about the work happening with AIG and The Ark Encounter. The exhibits serve as impactful tools for evangelism and provide believers with an opportunity to engage with non-believing family and friends through the lens of biblical truths.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 conclude their eight-episode series, “What Is the Gospel?” with today’s discussion on God’s glory.The glory of God, much like the beauty of His holiness, is challenging to define. The guys kick off the discussion by examining how the glory of God is the manifestation of His infinite perfection through His works and attributes. The world itself was created with the primary purpose of bringing glory to God, a truth most poignantly demonstrated at the cross, where God’s glory and goodness intersect in a profound way.God’s glory is intricately linked to His holiness. Despite the worldly perception that God is attention-seeking, the truth is that all of creation reflects His glory. The guys examine this fact in contrast to human leaders who demand glory for self-interest whereas God’s demand for glory stems from His inherent and eternal glory. The purpose of humanity, as bearers of the image of God, is to glorify Him and find ultimate joy in Him.Glorifying God is a comprehensive endeavor which involves acknowledging and passionately exalting Him in all aspects of life. It is a continuous process of enjoying His presence and obeying His commands. Additionally, glorifying God includes displaying His works to others and embracing the gift of salvation that He freely offers. While humanity falls short of bringing perfect glory to God, we can reflect His glory to others through our lives.Scripture promises a future glorification for believers, where they will receive glorious bodies and experience full restoration when Christ returns. This transformation includes an inward beauty of holiness, a process initiated in this life and fully realized in the future.The importance of linking God’s glory with His holiness is consistently emphasized. The reality of God’s wrath, the impending Judgment Day, and the existence of Hell are crucial aspects that should not be overlooked. Christians are encouraged to live out these truths, sharing the gospel fervently and recognizing the brevity of life. The focal point remains on Christ, who is our hope, and the understanding that we were created not only to know God but also to make Him known.The gospel is not merely an entry point into Christianity but an ongoing journey that beckons believers to look deeper into Scripture, perceiving the profound glory and magnificence of God.  To wrap up, the guys talk about fellowship over the Word with other believers and how it allows the transformative impact of God’s truth to shape and guide our lives.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

Explore the impact of the resurrection on Christian faith, emphasizing its importance as proof of Christ's identity. The hosts discuss Jesus' post-resurrection interactions and His divine authority over death. Witnessing the miraculous doesn't guarantee faith. The resurrection provides hope, symbolizes victory over death, and serves as the foundation for salvation. Urging proactive evangelism and warning about hell, they call for a revival. The possibility of other saints being raised from the dead and the genuine motive behind the resurrection story are also debated.

The guys are discussing a divine gift essential for salvation with a dynamic process- repentance. Turning from sin to God and emphasizing ongoing transformation, the joyous response to Christ’s redemptive work is central to today’s conversation. Exploring the profound significance of repentance, rooted in the call of Jesus during His earthly ministry in Mark 1:15, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss its pivotal role in the transformative journey of faith. Repentance is not a mere theological concept; it is a dynamic process that involves turning away from sin and turning towards God. This shift is not about remorse but signifies a fundamental change in mindset—a recognition of God's rightful place on the throne over our lives.The guys emphasize that repentance is a divine gift, not a self-generated effort. It requires a sincere acknowledgment of the abomination of sin in the eyes of the Lord. True repentance originates from a broken and contrite heart and bears fruit that reflects genuine transformation.The question of whether repentance is indispensable for salvation finds a clear answer in the affirmative, particularly for those seeking a meaningful relationship with God. Repentance is not a standalone action but an inherent gift intertwined with living faith. This challenges the prevalent mindset of merely seeking decisions for Christ, emphasizing instead the importance of cultivating a repentant heart.Preaching repentance is deemed vital, contingent upon daily practice by those conveying the message. The joy associated with repentance stems from a profound understanding of the Gospel's truths. It is not a burdensome obligation but a joyous response to the redemptive work of Christ, who bore the burdens of humanity on the cross.Encountering the Lord in all His glory becomes a catalyst for repentance, a natural response to the overwhelming majesty and holiness. Far from being a legalistic requirement, repentance is a cleansing fountain for the soul. The notion of robbing individuals of godly grief over their sins is discouraged, as it denies them the transformative and cleansing power inherent in genuine repentance.In essence, repentance is foundational, dynamically shaping the Christian narrative. It is not a static event but an ongoing journey—a divine gift that demands responsive obedience. Preaching repentance is essential, reflecting the joyous response to Christ's redemptive work—a cleansing fountain for the soul that offers hope, deliverance, and a genuine transformation towards God.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 difference between grace and faith, emphasizing that faith is a complete trust in Christ's finished work. They explore how faith is a free gift from God and examine the beauty of the gospel. The hosts highlight the role of God in salvation and the incompatibility of doubt and faith. They stress the importance of trusting God's promises and moving forward, sharing stories of fulfilled promises. The podcast concludes with reflections on faith and a playful discussion about a book title idea.

Grace, often confused with mercy, is an unmeasured and breathtaking favor from God, integral to Christian theology. Ray, Mark, E.Z., and Oscar recognize its transformative power, and encourage others to dare to be strong in God’s grace. Unlike human limitations, God’s grace is boundless and flows continuously. It’s an unmerited gift, with no strings attached, illustrated by the acronym “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” The Reformation emphasized salvation by grace alone, challenging the Roman Catholic Church’s teachings.The theological concept of “grace alone” takes center stage. The reformers, led by figures like Martin Luther, introduced a paradigm shift, preaching grace alone, faith alone, to the glory of God alone. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes salvation as a gift of God, not a result of human works. The challenge lies in understanding the sufficiency of grace—a balance between lawlessness and legalism. Scripture provides clarity on living in response to God’s grace. Titus highlights grace’s transformative power, saving those once hateful. Good works become imperative, reflecting grace’s impact.Grace, far from being a mere help, has the power to save. The guys discuss what it means to deny ungodliness and live soberly. Distinguishing the biblical view from that of a cult, Christianity offers true grace as a free gift. The rejection of grace alone stems from lies and ignorance of man’s sinful nature. God, not obligated, provides grace according to His nature.Why does grace alone make the gospel good news? It eliminates guesswork, anchoring Christians in God’s finished work. Christians find assurance solely in God’s grace, alleviating the fear of hell. Salvation, not law-dependence, finds assurance in Jesus who fulfilled the law.The guys discuss what it means for people to reject the teaching of grace alone. Law, wrath, and justice are served. Denying grace means presenting filthy works, reproaching Christ’s sacrifice. Everything, including God’s abounding grace, is recognized as a gift from the Lord, leaving no room for boasting.In a life governed by the law, fear prevails. Conversely, a life ruled by grace declares that everything needed is accomplished. Grace liberates from societal expectations, providing a foundation for righteous living. In conclusion, grace is an unmeasured favor integral to Christian theology. Emphasizing grace alone affirms its sufficiency, making the gospel good news. Grace liberates believers, providing assurance and acknowledgment that everything for salvation is accomplished.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

Join Ray, Mark, E.Z., and Oscar on their exploration of Jesus of Nazareth, emphasizing the inseparable connection between theology and worship. The incarnation, as expounded in John 1, emerges as a pivotal concept, symbolizing Jesus' profound act of taking on human flesh. This transformative event is not confined to the New Testament but extends seamlessly from the Old Testament, weaving a coherent narrative of divine purpose. Dispelling misconceptions about Jesus being only a historical figure, the guys elevate the understanding of Jesus as both a personal Lord and Savior and the eternal Christ who transcends time.Highlighting the importance of terms like incarnation and the Trinity, despite their absence in Scripture, becomes a crucial aspect of theological clarity. They clearly describe the nature of Jesus as the flawless mediator between God and humanity. The subsequent exploration of passive and active obedience delves into the intricacies of Christ's redemptive work, shedding light on the inseparable connection between His sacrificial death and righteous life. Imputation is expounded upon as a profound concept, depicting the transformative exchange of Adam's inherited sin for the full righteousness of Christ through divine grace. The guys also discuss propitiation and its role as a substitute for redemption and a choice between facing divine wrath or accepting Jesus' sacrifice. The advocacy of Jesus during times of human frailty and sin is highlighted, emphasizing the cleansing power of His sacrificial blood.Christ's comprehensive suffering is portrayed as a vital aspect of divine justice, culminating in the triumphant declaration, "It is finished." The beauty of the gospel, intricately tied to Jesus' suffering, is presented as the transformative force that brings an end to human suffering. The resurrection is positioned as the defining moment, setting Jesus apart from historical figures, with its impact on the redemptive narrative.The ascension, signaling the completion of Jesus' earthly ministry and the commencement of His role as high priest, adds another layer to the theological tapestry. This act of physical ascension solidifies Jesus' kingship, ongoing intercession, and preparation of a celestial abode for believers, underscoring the eternal significance of His work.In conclusion, the guys reflect on Jesus as the ultimate Savior and Redeemer, beckoning believers into a close and intimate relationship. This discussion unfolds the divine narrative, emphasizing Jesus' purposeful life and redemptive mission.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

Exploring the fall of man in Genesis and its impact on humanity's relationship with God, the podcast delves into the concept of being created in God's image, the deepening depravity of humanity, and the need for redemption. The hosts also discuss the false gospel of expressive individualism and the practical application of theology in daily life.

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar kick off an eight-episode series, “What Is the Gospel?” with today’s discussion of the fundamental question of “Who Is God?”The guys start off by differentiating between the questions “Who is God?" and “What is God?” and emphasizing the personal attributes of the Lord. Doing so, the hosts warn against impersonal conversations that can lead to idolatry. The awe-inspiring nature of God, the Creator of the universe, is highlighted, urging believers to discard their idols.Understanding God as the Alpha and Omega, a title which denotes His all-inclusive, eternal nature, helps bridge the finite understanding of humans with the infinite nature of God. The importance of the Trinity in the gospel is underscored, with caution against using analogies that may lead to heresy. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct yet constitute one God, a truth derived systematically from scripture.The revelatory nature of God is discussed, emphasizing the Bible as a means of divine revelation. God reveals Himself in nature, through His people, and ultimately in Jesus Christ. Amid a truth crisis, God is portrayed as the ultimate Truth Teller. Distinguishing between communicable and incommunicable attributes of God, the guys note that some attributes, like love and goodness, are shared with humans but not to the same degree. Jealousy, a communicable attribute, is explained as God's rightful demand for praise.The importance of details in understanding God is stressed, citing the fear of the Lord as a deterrent from evil. In evangelism, knowing who God is becomes crucial, as the wrong understanding can distort the gospel. Representing the true and living God ensures an accurate portrayal of the gospel message, encouraging believers to intimately know and make God known.Embark on a captivating journey with Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar as they attempt to unravel the profound nature of God and His Word. This riveting discussion closes with a fervent call for believers to intimately know and accurately represent the true and living God. Tune in for an episode that promises enlightenment, depth, and a profound connection with the Creator.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