The Living Waters Podcast

The podcast discusses how to fight off discouragement in the Christian faith, exploring three fronts: the world, the devil, and the flesh. It emphasizes the importance of relying on the means of grace for encouragement. The hosts share personal perspectives and practical advice on maintaining physical health. Discouragement is viewed as a diagnostic tool, prompting reflection on the lies we believe. The chapter descriptions include discussions on knowledge, church discipline, finding security in God, inspiration, fighting against discouragement, taking care of the physical aspects of discouragement, and trusting God's sovereignty.

Today the guys dive into the intricate interplay between faith, politics, and controversial issues. Special guest John Root, a bold Christian voice in the world of media, brings his unique perspective to the table during the G3 Conference, discussing the challenges of maintaining faith in the tumultuous landscape of modern politics.One of the significant issues grappled with in today’s discussion is the concept of idolatry and its undeniable connection to the political landscape today. This is a delicate balance for many Christians, as individuals may prioritize certain policies over their Christian beliefs, leading to an idolatry issue.The alarming trend of biblical illiteracy among the younger generations is another concern. Lack of biblical knowledge can lead to confusion about what is good and evil, causing young people to align with a “lesser evil” for the sake of perceived eternal good. As Christians, it is essential to stand firm in our faith, prioritize God's Word above all else, and reach the lost with the gospel.The guys’ conversation with John prompts listeners to stand for the truth, even when it's against those on “our own side”—a lesson gleaned from Daniel in the Old Testament. Through Daniel’s story, Christians can observe that the decision of how to fight is not decided in the battle itself but is determined by the preparation beforehand. John also shares his own experiences surrounding the controversy stirred up by the Christian series, The Chosen's handling of LGBTQ+ issues and interactions with conservative media figures.The guys also tackle the compromise and misdirection that can occur when conservatism is packaged in a godly wrapping. Many individuals are so politicized that they feel conservatism will save this country, but this is a view which is eternally empty. While it is widely understood that liberalism is godless, we must also realize that conservatism can create an illusion of righteousness, which is often false as well.Christians must remember that this world is not our home, and we should not assimilate to the world's values. Instead, believers should always strive to show love and respect for others, while at the same time standing firm in our faith and refusing to compromise on biblical truth. The key takeaway from this discussion is the importance of having a biblical worldview and the courage to challenge idolatry where it is found while maintaining a loving and respectful approach to all.This episode was recorded at G3 2023 National Conference.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

Get ready for a riveting exploration of a Christian’s soldier-like journey, delicately balancing faith, food, and modern challenges. The guys are joined by Phil Johnson, the director of Grace to You and elder at Grace Community Church, to observe the portrayal of Christians as soldiers in scripture and discuss spiritual warfare against Satan and his false ideologies. It's a war, not against people, but against satanic strongholds, with the aim to liberate people from these lies.To begin the discussion, Phil shares the profound influence of John MacArthur on his own faith journey and the courage required in the modern church. With anecdotes and personal observations, the guys remind listeners that standing firm in biblical truth often leads to unexpected places.In an era where evangelism is often diluted to be more palatable, Phil emphasizes the importance of defending the truth and sharing the gospel. The role of courage and boldness in evangelism is highlighted, as is the importance of tearing down ideological strongholds to liberate people from lies. Mark Spence shares how Phil has challenged and helped him and Living Waters to grow, and Phil also expresses appreciation for the efforts of Ray Comfort and Living Waters’ bold approach to sharing the gospel.The cyclical nature of church history is examined, underscoring the importance of remaining faithful to God's will, even if it means being part of the faithful remnant rather than the easygoing majority. The significance of gathering as God's people during the pandemic is discussed, as well as the importance of face-to-face fellowship in the church.Lastly, the conversation steers towards the impact of John MacArthur's teachings on small church communities and the role of grandparents in supporting their children in today's challenging times. A sneak peek is provided into MacArthur's upcoming book, The War on Children, addressing the challenges of raising children in a culture that targets and confuses them. Book recommendations are also shared, including Holiness by J.C. Ryle as well as sermons of Charles Spurgeon, providing listeners with ample food for thought.In essence, this podcast episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the Christian’s journey, skillfully intertwining elements of faith, food, and modern challenges. It provides an enlightening perspective that balances the heaviness of faith with the lightness of human connection, ensuring an engaging and thought-provoking listen.This episode was recorded at G3 2023 National Conference.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

How dangerous is pride? Join Ray Comfort and the guys as they combat issues of pride with today’s guest; Virgil Walker, Executive Director of Operations of G3 Ministries and co-host of the Just Thinking podcast.Today’s episode highlights the foundational nature of pride in our lives and how cultivating a regular practice of spending time in the Word, prayer, and devotion can help maintain humility. This time doesn't need to be elaborate or complicated, but rather a simple routine of reading the Bible, praying, and starting the day with God. By being immersed in scripture and dedicating time to prayer, Christians gain perspective and learn from the examples of humility found in the Bible. This practice keeps believers grounded and reminds them of their own need for the gospel and its proclamation, just as much as the people they share it with.The conversation also delves into the dangers of social media and its potential to breed pride. The hosts address the blessing of being able to influence thousands, or even millions, of people worldwide with a simple click or tap. However, there are also inherent dangers, particularly when it comes to illuminating the unchecked pride in our hearts.One of the dangers highlighted is the lack of filters and buffers on social media. It is all too easy to impulsively share frustrations with the world without considering the consequences. This can lead to sinful behavior, as individuals may feel a sense of superiority or importance when their opinions or actions gain attention on social media.To guard against this, the hosts share the importance of cultivating true humility. They discuss the significance of being connected to a local church and caution against being more focused on ministry "out there" rather than being rooted in a community of believers. By staying connected to a local church, individuals can receive accountability, support, and guidance to help them remain grounded and humble in their actions and influence.Towards the end of the conversation, they explore how daily devotion with God is significant to Christian maturity. The more time you spend with God, the more you will be strengthened to resist the pride of life.This podcast episode offers a thoughtful discourse on how Christians can uphold faithfulness to God, combat pride, and utilize digital platforms to glorify God in our fast-paced digital world. It provides valuable insights for those looking to use social media for a higher purpose or those seeking to deepen their Christian walk.This episode was recorded at G3 2023 National Conference.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

Renowned expert in Islam, Dr. James White, shares his insights on understanding the Islamic faith. Topics include controversial Quran verses, the significance of hadith, clashes between Islamic theology and Christian faith, and effective strategies for sharing the gospel with Muslims.

In today’s discussion on the role and opportunities of the local church, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar are joined at the G3 Conference by special guest Mike Riccardi. Together, they examine how the local church is not just somewhere to go every week but is in fact a vital and irreplaceable part of the life of every believer.The discussion dives into the deeply personal and significant role of the local church in our spiritual journeys. Sharing a personal anecdote, Mike illustrates the shepherd-like qualities of his own pastor, John MacArthur and his wife Patricia, who provided care for his newborn twins in the hospital during a health complication. The local church, when you look closer, is more than a structure. It's a family of God, a source of teaching, guidance, and shared experiences, an irreplaceable part of our walk with Christ.In their conversation, the guys also highlight the implications of the trend of Christians substituting physical church attendance with online sermons. This practice, which grew in popularity during the pandemic, often lacks accountability and personal application of the Word of God. Meaningful membership in a local church is key to fulfilling the commands of the New Testament.Reflecting on the Reformation, the guys illuminate its role in shaping our understanding of the priesthood of all believers. This understanding is vital for discerning where each of us can best contribute to the church. They also explore the myriad of ways churches can engage in outreach and evangelism, from door-to-door visitation to prison ministries.Today’s episode makes a compelling case for church attendance and integration into a local congregation. It also encourages listeners to reflect on their own commitment to the local church, challenging Christians everywhere to be better ambassadors for Christ in our communities.This episode was recorded at G3 2023 National Conference.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 this thought-provoking podcast episode, Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar invite listeners to challenge their understanding of the Word of Faith Movement, a belief system that has had a profound impact on numerous people across the globe. They are joined by Justin Peters, a man who has personally experienced the effects of this movement's teachings on faith healing, to peel back the layers of this controversial belief system.  One of the audacious teachings of the Word of Faith Movement is the assertion that we are little gods, on par with God, the Father, and Jesus Christ. This belief challenges the core tenets of Christianity and diminishes the divine and unique nature of God and Jesus. The movement also heavily focuses on the idea of having enough faith and sowing enough 'seed' (money) to reap a harvest. This manipulative practice places an undue burden on believers, exploiting their faith for financial gain.  The discussion also delves into the controversial practices of notable faith healers like Todd White, Benny Hinn, and Kenneth Copeland. These faith healers' methods starkly contrast with the healing practices documented in the New Testament, often leading to harmful consequences for their followers.  The guys get to the heart of the matter as they take on the topic of false doctrine and its cunning disguise within the Word of Faith Movement. False doctrine is a dangerous aspect of this movement, often leading people astray from the truth of the gospel. Listeners are urged to engage with Scripture to challenge false beliefs and maintain a compassionate heart towards those deceived by this movement.  Finally, the guys confront the uncomfortable topic of death, a subject the Word of Faith Movement often sidesteps. The evasion of this inevitable aspect of life further showcases the deception inherent in their teachings. Despite the uncomfortable nature of this subject, addressing it is crucial for a holistic understanding of life, faith, and God's plan.  This podcast episode serves as a wake-up call to the dangers of the Word of Faith Movement. It encourages listeners to seek the truth, challenge deceptive teachings, and engage in meaningful dialogue about faith. With a compassionate heart and a desire for truth, we can help those ensnared by this movement find their way back to the genuine teachings of the gospel.This episode was recorded at G3 2023 National Conference.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

Generation Z, those born from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s, is a demographic that is increasingly becoming a focal point in many societal discussions, and the church is no exception. This episode provides a thought-provoking exploration of how we can truly engage this generation and equip them for a spiritual journey.  It's no secret that the church has struggled to connect with this generation. The gap that exists between Gen Z and their parents is widening, and the church has been trying to bridge this gap using entertainment-focused and man-centered approaches. In today’s discussion with special guest Jonny Ardavanis, the guys challenge the effectiveness of such methods. The crux of the issue is not about making church services more entertaining or “cool,” but about providing authentic teachings of principles and genuine repentance—with a sense of urgency to make up for lost time.  Generation Z is a generation that has been profoundly impacted by cultural influences and technology. The advent and cultural integration of smartphones and the Internet has significantly shaped the worldview of Gen Z. This generation has a world of information at their fingertips, but this information overload can often lead to deception and distortion. This issue is further compounded by the shifting landscape of morality and truth, which presents an uphill battle for this generation.  But all is not lost. God has put eternity into the heart of man, and this longing for truth can be seen in the way people search to fill their lives. People are seeking to answer the existential question of “Who am I?”—often looking to their bodies and their sexuality to find their worth and value. The gospel can be applied to this search for identity, bringing hope and satisfaction in a world of emptiness.  As the Body of Christ focuses on equipping our future leaders with the gospel, we must also prepare them for the challenges they may face, such as the rise in deconstruction of faith. Deconstruction often leads to apostasy and a rejection of God's Word, so it's crucial that parents and church leaders are equipped to navigate this with their children and young congregants.  Revitalizing the church's connection with Generation Z involves understanding their worldview, engaging them with the truth of the Gospel, and equipping them for a spiritual journey. It's a challenging task, but one that holds immense potential for shaping the future of the church and the faith journey of the next generation.This episode was recorded at G3 2023 National Conference.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

Our contemporary, post-Christian society presents unique challenges when navigating faith and truth. As traditional Christian beliefs take a backseat, it becomes crucial to examine the shifts that have led us here. This podcast episode will discuss these complexities in depth, drawing insights from an intriguing conversation with esteemed guest, Voddie Baucham.  A critical part of this discussion is the examination of the increasingly prevalent attack on truth in our modern society. This assault is upheld by three pillars: Religious Pluralism, The New Tolerance, and Relativism. These concepts undermine the values of Christianity by promoting the acceptance of multiple religions, enforcing an exaggerated level of tolerance, and endorsing the belief that truth is relative. Voddie's book, The Ever-Loving Truth: Can Faith Thrive in a Post-Christian Culture, provides key insights into these dynamics. It emphasizes the challenges that Christianity faces in a society that continuously evolves and strays further away from its roots.  A pivotal part of this conversation focuses on the significance of truth and the authority of Scripture in the current cultural era. The erosion of these principles has led to the acceptance of subtle shifts and endorsement of controversial concepts such as theistic evolution and women pastors. This shift signifies a deviation from foundational Christian principles like creation, fall, redemption, and consummation.  The discussion draws parallels between our post-Christian reality and the experiences of Peter and John in a pre-Christian culture. This comparison helps shed light on the challenges faced by modern believers, urging them to reflect on the place of faith in contemporary society.  In conclusion, today’s discussion invites listeners to confront the truth, understand the inevitable suffering that comes from refusing to compromise on it, and learn from our forefathers in faith. By examining these concepts, believers can better navigate the complexities of faith and truth in our post-Christian world.  It's a reminder that although our society may have strayed from traditional Christian beliefs, the truth and authority of Scripture remain profoundly relevant. As we navigate this post-Christian landscape, it is crucial to stand firm in our faith and strive to understand and uphold the truth.The guys also joyfully open a gift parcel from Hasti Gomes from @biblicalandreformed.This episode was recorded at G3 2023 National Conference.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’s podcast episode kicks off with a humorous walk down memory lane. Our hosts take a light-hearted look at some outrageous fashion trends and hilarious wardrobe choices. From the puzzling origin of sagging pants to the inexplicable trend of oversized red boots, the guys reminisce about some of the most bewildering style statements.  However, the episode isn't just about laughter and fun. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar also delve into the serious and often undervalued topic of cultural etiquette. Etiquette is more than just table manners; it is a code of conduct that fosters respect, decorum, and professionalism. Understanding various cultures, their values, and beliefs are crucial when navigating etiquette. From the power of a warm greeting to the importance of saying "thank you," the guys explore how small gestures can make a significant difference.  One of the most poignant parts of today’s conversation is a discussion on representing Christ in our everyday lives. The guys reflect on a thought-provoking quote from Gandhi about Christianity and consider how our conduct as Christians can influence others' perception of Christ. As Christians, we strive to honor the Lord in everything we do, including understanding the importance of cultural sensitivity, particularly when travelling. How we dress can be a sign of respect towards the host culture, and it can be challenging when people from our own culture are not sensitive to the customs of the country they are visiting.   In a world that often overlooks the importance of etiquette and cultural understanding, today’s discussion sheds light on these crucial aspects of interpersonal relationships. The guys explore the importance of being mindful of cultural context when interacting with others, and how showing respect and understanding can enhance our relationships and our faith.  Overall, this episode serves as a reminder of the importance of kindness, patience, and respect. Whether it's being punctual, dressing appropriately, or being mindful of our language, these small acts of etiquette can have a significant impact on how we represent Christ in our daily lives. Join us in this enlightening discussion and let's strive to honor the Lord in all that we do. From fashion faux pas to serious discussions about faith and etiquette, this episode is filled with laughter, insights, and food for thought.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