Gospel Spice | Awaken Delight in God through faith in Jesus Christ

As we continue our exploration of Scripture through the French language and culture, I invite you today into one of the more difficult and complex words – Epreuve, in the context of faith. Together, we are beckoned by this word to embrace trials and tests as opportunities for growth and refinement in our spiritual journey.Note | You are invited to go deeper by using our extensive digital book that includes, for each of our 12 episodes in the series, a listening guide, questions to ponder, key takeaways and key quotes, topics to go deeper, and more. Go to gospelspice.com/french for the details and to download a free sample.Trials and tests are integral to our faith journey. By embracing trials as transformative experiences, we embark on a path of authenticity and refinement in Christ. As we navigate trials, we are empowered to embrace the refining process, cultivate unwavering faith, and bear witness to the profound work of God within us. Through this journey of embracing trials and tests, we emerge as resilient and authentic bearers of the genuine faith that withstands the tests of time. Trials and tests are catalysts for growth, ultimately leading us to a place of profound transformation and unwavering authenticity in our faith journey.Trials are revealing and refining moments. So, drawing from 2Corinthians 8:8, let’s articulate how trials serve as essential tools that test the sincerity of love and faith. Much like a teacher using tests to gauge the understanding of students, trials reveal what lies within us. Whether they manifest as external adversities or internal suffering, trials become the crucible through which our faith and character are tested and refined.This French word invites us to reframe our perspective on trials. Rather than viewing them as insurmountable obstacles, trials are an invitation to deepen our self-awareness and recognize the transformative work of God within us. The analogy of car crash tests is particularly compelling, as it illustrates how trials reveal what is dormant or concealed beneath the surface. Through this lens, trials become catalysts for personal growth, leading us to surrender to God and witness His refining work in our lives.Joseph, Paul, and, most of all, our beloved King Jesus Christ Himself, faced formidable trials yet ultimately trusted God for positive outcomes. Their testimonies serve as powerful examples of navigating trials with unwavering faith. By examining their journeys, we glean valuable insights into persevering through trials and embracing the refining process with steadfast hope and authenticity.Tests and trials prove the genuineness of our faith. By studying different translations, I invite you to discover fresh ways in which trials deepen our faith and spiritual authenticity. So, together, let us reconsider our perception of tests. Rather than solely being mechanisms for evaluation, tests are opportunities for proofing and proving. The juxtaposition of testing and proving in the context of faith amplifies the truth that in Christ, approval precedes testing and proving. Thus, our faith becomes a testament to the unyielding grace of God, empowering us to navigate trials with a sense of purpose and steadfastness.The perfect gift for everyone - apparel, drinkware, stickers and more for all the women, men and kids in your life!https://www.gospelspice.com/merchGo to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogDo you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Stephanie Rousselle interviews Mary DeMuth about her experiences in France. Mary shares insights into her cultural immersion, spiritual challenges, and the nuances of living and ministering in France.Mary's experiences in France offer actionable lessons about faith, culture, and the power of embracing conversational nuances that have unfortunately gone missing in much of the American landscape these days. As she shares her journey, she inspired Stephanie to approach challenges with open hearts, seek delight in unexpected places, and nurture meaningful interactions in a diverse world. Her insights invite reflection and introspection, prioritizing empathy, patience, and understanding in the pursuit of a multi-faceted faith experience for the glory of God in Christ Jesus!Mary recounts her journey of embracing the French language and culture. Having studied French in high school and pursued a minor in college, her foundation was laid for the experiences that lay ahead. Her venture into France wasn't just a tourist endeavor but stemmed from her faith and calling to ministry. The decision to move from the US to France, as church planters, unraveled a myriad of cultural, spiritual, and personal challenges. Good thing she and her family were deeply rooted in Christ!Mary's experiences shed light on the complexity of cross-cultural ministry. Living in Southern France, she discovered the subtleties of the French evangelical landscape, leading her to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with sharing the Gospel in a foreign context. As Mary narrates her time in France, vivid experiences of cultural shock and adaptation surface.She candidly recalls the clash of cultures, highlighting the surprising source of her greatest culture shock, from Seattle to East Texas – not France! Mary's reflections unveil the shifting landscapes of cultural adaptation, showing the nuances of societal pressures and expectations. Her insights into the French 'joie de vivre' and approach to disagreements reveal the vibrant and diverse nature of French culture, something she is chagrined to find lacking in current day US.Mary shares how her experiences in France reshaped her perspective on faith, culture, and human interaction. Her outlook is rooted in empathy, patience, and the cultivation of meaningful conversations. She addresses the complexities of re-entry into the US, reflecting on the jarring contrast her family faced upon returning, where the depth of dedication to Christ seemed to falter in the abundance of cultural Christianity.Mary's experiences and insights serve as a guide for those embarking on their own journey. She articulates the importance of cultivating empathy, seeking delight, and engaging in nuanced conversations. Recognizing the value of foreign experiences and their impact on our faith, she highlights the need for understanding and embracing differences.Mary concludes the interview with a heartfelt prayer for those stepping into new and unfamiliar cultural landscapes. Her prayer resonates with hope, protection, and an open-hearted approach to discovering God's beauty in different spaces.CONNECT WITH MARY DEMUTH:There is so much more to discuss with Mary! She will be back in a couple of months for another conversation about what matters to her. Until then, find her here: https://www.marydemuth.com/about/Mary loves Jesus. And really that’s the most important thing about her. It’s not writing or speaking or praying or mommying or any other -ing you can find. She flat out loves Him. Why? Because he has utterly, truly, completely re-storied her. See her testimony below.She has three adult children, and she’s been married to Patrick for 33 years now. Mary counts those relationships as the most important people in her life. In the mid 2000s, their family helped plant a church in Southern France–a difficult, but amazing experience. In her spare (ha!) time, she loves to cook, run, garden, decorate, paint, and do interior design. You can find all her artwork here.She’s been writing for 30+ years–half of them in obscurity. She mentored many writers during that time, and continues to do so through the Rockwall Christian Writers Group and some of her  instructional books. Since then she has written over 45 books, translated into five languages. You can see a listing of all her books on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, CBD, Lifeway and Parable.Mary pioneered a literary agency in 2022, Mary DeMuth Literary, where she shepherds writers toward traditional publishing.She currently lives in North Texas, serves in my local church alongside her husband, and she’s had the privilege of speaking around the world in places like Johannesburg, Monaco, Geneva, Munich, Port-au-Prince, Nice and Florence. Although her past story is difficult, her current story leaks adventure.Not only has Mary been restored and restoried, but she longs to see the same for you. You no longer have to live haunted. I believe your new story starts today. Carl Bard wrote, “Though no one can go back and make a brand-new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending.”Paul reminds us of this important truth: “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT). Living in retrospect is a bad idea. It’s time to heal, be set free, and find the new story God has for you. Mary has experienced God turning her storm into a story, moving her from a bitter story into a bigger one. Won’t you join her on the adventure?Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

In a world filled with challenges and trials, many of us seek to find joy in life, a deep sense of contentment and delight that transcends circumstances. But where can we find this true joy, this joie de vivre, in the midst of life's ups and downs? Today I invite you into the biblical concept of joy, exploring how it is intimately connected to pursuing the ultimate prize in Christ. Join us as we journey through the wisdom of the scriptures and discover the path to cultivating a lifestyle of joy, rooted in the grand prize of Christ himself.Note | You are invited to go deeper by using our extensive digital book that includes, for each of our 12 episodes in the series, a listening guide, questions to ponder, key takeaways and key quotes, topics to go deeper, and more. Go to gospelspice.com/french for the details and to download a free sample.Let’s start by exploring the biblical notion of pursuing a prize, as outlined in Philippians 3:14. The ultimate goal Paul pursues is to know Christ and the power of his resurrection. This sets the stage for understanding how Jesus Himself is the grand prize that Paul, and by extension, all believers, are after. As we reflect on this biblical perspective, we gain insights into the true purpose and fulfillment found in the pursuit of Christ as the ultimate prize of our lives.I invite you to draw a parallel between the French word "prix" (prize) and the concept of Jesus as the grand prix, the ultimate reward and the thrill of a lifetime. Just as in a race where only one receives the prize, we are encouraged to run in such a way as to win the prize of knowing Christ. We are reminded of the sacrificial cost Jesus paid to become our ultimate prize, and how this reflects the immeasurable value of our relationship with Him. So, view your pursuit of Christ as part of a grand adventure, the ultimate race where the prize is an intimate and deeply fulfilling relationship with your Savior!Amidst the pursuit of the ultimate prize, Paul's letters in Philippians also emphasize the importance of joy. Paul's expression of joy in the midst of hardship and trials highlights the connection between pursuing Christ and experiencing true joy. We explore the biblical definition of joy and how it transcends external circumstances. Together, let’s explore the intertwining themes of contentment, gratitude, and rejoicing, highlighting that true joy is rooted in a deep, foundational relationship with Christ, and not in fleeting external circumstances.In the second half of the episode, I introduce the French expression "joie de vivre," which translates to "joy of living." This concept goes beyond mere personality traits and reflects a deep-rooted delight in simply being alive. The discussion shifts to the Hebrew word for joy, and how it aligns with the Christian understanding of delighting in the scriptures. We are reminded that cultivating joy in Christ is a lifelong journey, and it is intimately connected to our growth in faith and the abiding presence of God's word in our lives.As we conclude our exploration, we reaffirm the profound truth that pursuing Christ as the ultimate prize leads to a lifestyle marked by true joy. The pursuit of the grand prize of Christ transforms our perspective on life, infusing each moment with purpose and eternal significance. Cultivating joie de vivre in Christ is a slow and intentional process, but it is a journey filled with immeasurable richness and fulfillment. This journey of pursuing the ultimate prize and finding joy in Christ is an invitation to embrace the abundant life that Jesus promises to all who follow Him. As we imitate Paul, who imitates Christ, may our lives become a testament to the joy and fulfillment found in pursuing the grand prize of Christ. As we navigate our daily lives, may we be reminded of the ultimate reward that awaits us in Christ and may we cultivate a lifestyle of joy, rooted in our deep and abiding relationship with Him.We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Bonjour, Stephanie here! Have you ever tried to connect the Old Testament to the New to find Jesus there in fresh ways? How can we experience Christ in the pages of the Old Testament in ways that are exciting, fresh, inspiring – a far cry from stale or boring? And, how can we cultivate habits, tricks and tips that make it easier for us to spot Jesus throughout the narrative of the Old Testament? How do we make our faith deeply rooted in history, but in ways that are memorable, worthy to pass down to others, and just downright exciting? Today I invite you to find Jesus in one of the most central yet dusty and maybe unattractive portions of the Old Testament – the Tabernacle. Ros joins me to dust things off and find Jesus front and center in the blueprint, construction, and use of this structure.Ros shares her experience of centering her faith and worship of Christ through her group study of the Tabernacle. She explains how it has allowed her to connect the Old Testament dots in unexpected ways. She invites us to experience the same!If you are looking to fall in love with Christ in new ways, or to experience the Old Testament like never before, we invite you to join us in our newly revamped course, including an updated workbook (that Ros highly recommends) at gospelspice.com/tabernacle – now is the perfect time to enter this hallowed space, on your own, with a friend, or a group. It is one of our most Christocentric studies, and you will not regret it!We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Bonjour! Stephanie here. I invite you through this new Gospel Spice series to embrace the French language and culture for a fresh explosion of faith! Join me to experience the beauty of Scripture in French, transcending linguistic barriers to explore the depths of faith and intimacy with God.Journey with me through Scripture, in French, even if you are completely unfamiliar with the language. This unusual approach aims to deepen the understanding of Scripture beyond its literal translation, incorporating the essence of French culture, literature, and gastronomy to enrich the spiritual experience. By unpacking Scripture through the lens of French language and culture, the series aims to reveal unexpected facets of Jesus and his teachings, inspiring you to approach your faith with newfound vigor.Note | You are invited to go deeper by using our extensive digital book that includes, for each of our 12 episodes in the series, a listening guide, questions to ponder, key takeaways and key quotes, topics to go deeper, and more. Go to gospelspice.com/french for the details and to download a free sample.Intriguingly, the French word for "delight" encompasses both delight and deliciousness, offering a deeper, more nuanced perspective. This linguistic treasure serves as a metaphor for the multifaceted journey that awaits us in this series, promising to uncover the richness of faith akin to a sumptuous feast. Step by step, together we will experience the layers of faith encapsulated within the French language. Our goal is simple, yet profound: together, let’s foster a profound sense of joy and fulfillment in our spiritual walk!Over the next three months, each episode of the series will focus on a French word or expression to draw out deeper intimacy with Jesus, encouraging prayer, reflection, and introspection. The series aims to not only aid in understanding who Jesus is and what he has done for each one of us; it will also provide insights into who we are in his eyes and the purpose to which we are called in our lives.The series is not confined to mere listening. You are offered the opportunity to embark on a comprehensive spiritual journey through the accompanying guidebook. These resources contain listening guides, thought-provoking questions, recommended research topics, key takeaways, and sections designed for deep reflection and journaling. The experience can be pursued individually, with friends, or in a small group. You choose how you experience your journey!In this episode, I introduce the concept of RSVP, drawing parallels between the nuanced French expression and spiritual invitations. Just as "repondez s'il vous plait" signifies a polite request for a response, so does God tenderly coax forth the depths of our being, seeking our earnest reply. So, consider how you will RSVP to God's invitations! Consider virtues of surrender, trust, and openness in embracing His guidance.Drawing from Jesus' example in the beatitudes, let’s enter an introspective exploration of how we respond to God's invitations. Consider the abundance of blessings in various circumstances, inspiring a deeper gratitude and understanding of our divine calling. Reflect on Jesus' invitation to count your blessings, so that you will experience a profound shift in perspective and appreciation for the grace you have received.As the series unfolds, we invite you on an in-depth exploration of your faith through language and culture. From uncovering the depths of the French language to embracing God's invitations through a Christ-like response, the journey promises to kindle in your heart a fresh passion for faith and an unwavering love for Christ. So, embrace the beauty of hope, love, and joy, responding to God's call with a resounding "oui" – a wholehearted and joyous affirmation of faith, reverence, and surrender.We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

The world is a very different place from what it was just a few years ago. Today’s post-everything world is arguably more divisive, political, indifferent, and impatient than ever. While many believe that the best course of action is to find a way back to how things used to be, is that actually the best way forward? Stephanie welcomes Pastor Daniel Im to discuss his upcoming book, The Discipleship opportunity, releasing June 18, 2024. If you are looking to understand the world we live in, so that you can properly address those around you with the message of Christ but without being “that Christian” then this conversation will help you identify several profiles of people, so that you will know how to address them. Do they need to hear the gospel right now? Or is it more about building relationships first? Could it be about alternative, creative ways to tell them about Jesus? It all depends on how they currently approach their spirituality. What can you do, and how? Daniel Im will help us understand who “sleepers” are, as well as “seekers”. Now, what about the “consumers” in your church? You know, the ones who come to watch and would rather not participate? How do you relate to them? And, if you are what Daniel calls a “disciple” then what is your role in the body of Christ?Given the many ways that our world has changed, it’s time for Christian leadership strategies to change, and for churches to approach making disciples, evangelism, and preaching differently than yesterday. The Discipleship Opportunity is a powerful tool for church leaders seeking to navigate the challenges of our rapidly evolving, post-pandemic, post-Christian, and post-everything world. In this helpful resource, Daniel Im equips readers with practical ways to reach those who are spiritually asleep in your church and community and disciple your people to know Jesus deeply.Learn disciple-making principles that are as straightforward as they are timely. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, don’t miss this opportunity to emerge as a stronger, healthier, and more evangelistic church.Gospel Spice is giving away THREE COPIES of this book. All you need to be, is signed up to our newsletter! So sign up today at GospelSpice.com to receive the email that will invite you to enter the giveaway for a chance to win.MORE ABOUT THE DISCIPLESHIP OPPORTUNITY BY PASTOR DANIEL IMThe Discipleship Opportunity will equip and empower you to lead, evangelize, disciple, and preach differently in our post-pandemic, post-truth, post-Christian, post-[fill-in-the-blank] planet. Daniel Im debunks outdated assumptions and looks at four types of people in your community—the sleeper, the seeker, the consumer, and the disciple. Then, he unpacks how to understand, reach, and preach with relevancy and passion so that more people will come to know Jesus deeply and be known by Him fully. You’ll find the strategies presented in The Discipleship Opportunity will help you to become healthier, stronger, and better able to fulfill Jesus’ command to make disciples of all nations.https://www.danielim.com/thediscipleshipopportunity/ We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

I cannot believe that this is our last episode traipsing together through the gospel of Matthew. Did you count? I did. We spent 33 episodes together. What a journey! The Gospel of Matthew has been teaching us the life of Jesus from a culturally relevant perspective. Matthew uses "show, don't tell" moments to convey essential cultural clues. We've explored how Jesus' teachings impacted the people of his time.In the first 12 chapters of Matthew, we mainly focused on Jesus' teachings in plain sight. But after chapter 12, things take a different turn. Jesus starts using parables and begins teaching privately to his disciples. One thing that really stands out is how the Pharisees got antagonized by Jesus seemingly breaking the Sabbath. But Jesus was quick to challenge their understanding, accusing them of not truly knowing the Scriptures and confronting their hypocrisy head-on.Throughout these chapters, Jesus emphasizes the importance of a surrendered heart over external sacrifices. He claims to be the Lord of the Sabbath, equal with God Himself. Talk about a bold statement! It will cause massive ripples effects, all the way to the other side of the cross. The sacrifice of Jesus was the last sacrifice. Let that sink in. Jesus, our Savior, is seated at the right hand of God, signifying rest and authority. Wow.Prophets and Psalms challenge us to know, hear, taste, and see God's goodness. So, let's immerse ourselves in His Word and experience His presence in a whole new way! Let's close with this thought: intimacy with God is made possible through Christ and a worshiping heart. As we read and hear Scripture, let's truly understand its depths and apply it to our lives.We are here to encourage you to seek deeper intimacy with God, week in and week out. Thank you for joining us each week. Let His words penetrate your heart and transform you. Let's experience His love and live surrendered lives. And remember, friends, surrender your heart to God, and watch Him work wonders in your life.Are you looking for a place to take notes, some topics to research on your own, or some questions you could ponder to go deeper during your quiet time with God or with a friend? Remember, we have workbooks available for this episode, and every other episode of our Jesus Rabbi and Lord series. For each episode, they contain a summary, listening guide, key takeaways, quotes, questions and topics to go deeper. Go to gospelspice.com/jesus to purchase these workbooks.Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit alongside Jesus and his initial audience? To experience the fresh spiritual flavors that the Messianic Jewish culture weaves into the four gospels? Well, that's exactly what we here aim to do through this original series, JESUS RABBI AND LORD. Stephanie invites you to dig deep into Scripture, unearthing raw diamonds that may need a little cleaning up, but will ultimately shine brightly.So get ready to embark on this enlightening and transformative journey with Gospel Spice. Prepare to encounter Jesus in a way that resonates with our modern world and discover the richness of the gospel through the lens of Jewish culture. Let's dig deep, uncover the hidden spices, and experience the beauty of the Scriptures together. Welcome to Gospel Spice!Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Do you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogBonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.  Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways:1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too!2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app;and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. So, be part of the spice of the gospel by becoming a financial partner today!Bonjour! Gospel Spice exists to inspire our generation to delight in God. We do this through the podcast, online Bible studies, leadership trainings, and more. We want to serve Christ-followers who seek to live a life spiced with the gospel. We want to love God, because He first loved us. We want to experience the fullness of life with Him—and not be content with stale, boring, leftover faith. Jesus tells us that the most important thing is to love the Lord our God, so we take Him seriously. He adds that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves. Now, there are many ways to do that, but I have always personally felt deep compassion for victims of human trafficking – it is modern day slavery, and it revolts the heart of God. And so, they are our particular neighbors here at Gospel Spice. We want to play our part in raising awareness and then financially supporting those who fight this great evil.  Now we would love to invite you to join the team in one of three ways:1, pray Gospel Spice forward – pray for our guests, our listeners and participants, and for us too!2, play Gospel Spice forward by telling your friends about us, and by please leaving positive reviews and comments on your podcast listening app;and 3rd, PAY GospelSpice forward. Less than 1% of our listeners are supporting us financially. We need your help! Please pay Gospel Spice forward today. It can be a one-time donation, or a monthly one, for the amount of your choice. Your donation is fully tax-deductible in the US. Plus, once we cover our costs, a significant portion of your donation will be given back to Christian organizations that fight human trafficking, and that we vet thoroughly. So, you can know that every dime you give is used for the Kingdom of God. Every little bit helps. So, be part of the spice of the gospel by becoming a financial partner today!Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Welcome to this conversation with two people who really inspire me, Andi Ashworth and Charlie Peacock. They provide ample hope from further down the road - having accumulated decades of wisdom in the public square as Nashville music producing influencers. Dare I say - few people have influenced our generation through music more powerfully than they have.I read their book, meaningfully titled “Why everything that doesn’t matter, matters so much” and then awaited this conversation with giddiness, anticipation, excitement, a little bit of shyness. Maybe I was – and still am? – a little starstruck? I will let you decide.Have you ever asked, what can I do to mend the world, to mend my family or my own life? And if I could, is it worth it? Should I bother? Does my own small part in the world really matter? And so today, multi-Grammy-winner Charlie Peacock and his wife, delightful author Andy Ashworth, come to share their encouragement. Their book is a collection of 16 essays or letters. They are here to share their wisdom, calling us to discover and to join God's mission to love and care for a very hurting world. They are sharing with honesty, vulnerability, humility and wisdom from their own life experiences. They are beloved and trusted mentors. They invite us into a thought-provoking exploration of the many facets of the Christian culture care and culture-making in all areas - from the kitchen, hospitality, generosity, gardening all the way to Carnegie Hall and Grammy Awards. They talk to us about the theology of imagination and creativity, a vocation that provides a framework for all of life. I've found them providing a model for expressing love in marriage, in friendship, in citizenship, and every kind of work, even in the midst of our culture of cynicism, fear, exhaustion, oppression. I have found that each one of these 16 letters is a gentle, wise, humble, vulnerable, and thought-provoking nudge in the direction of God's powerfully ordinary purpose for each one of us. It doesn't matter what the future holds because we're invited to participate fully in the beautiful redemptive work of Christ. Can you begin to see why I can't wait to share this conversation with you? I hope you join us.MEET ANDI ASHWORTH AND CHARLIE PEACOCKAndi Ashworth is the author of Real Love for Real Life: The Art and Work of Caring. She is Co-Founder of The Art House in Nashville where she served for over two decades through hospitality and mentoring, hosting a wide range of guests and organizations including Bono, Blood: Water Mission, International Justice Mission, The Gathering, and the ONE Campaign. Andi holds an MA in Theological Studies from Covenant Seminary in St. Louis. As Editor-In-Chief of the Art House America Blog she stewarded hundreds of essays from a variety of authors such as Tish Harrison Warren, Steven Garber, Sandra McCracken, Russ Ramsey, and Luci Shaw. Andi is most recently published in Wild Things and Castles in the Sky: A Guide to Choosing the Best Books for Children and A Book for Hearts & Minds: What You Should Read and Why. She has been married to Charlie Peacock for nearly fifty years and they have two grown, married children and four grandchildren.Charlie Peacock is a Grammy Award–winning, Billboard Chart–topping music producer, composer, and recording artist. He is a co-founder of the Art House, Wedgwood Circle, and founder/director Emeritus of the Commercial Music Program at Lipscomb University. Charlie has produced music for film and television, including A Walk to Remember, Chris Cornell's "Misery Chain" from the soundtrack of 12 Years a Slave, and "Hush," the title theme to the AMC drama Turn: Washington’s Spies. Named by Billboard’s Encyclopedia of Record Producers as one of the 500 most important producers in music history, Charlie is also a three-time recipient of the Gospel Music Award for Producer of the Year. His books include New Way to Be Human, At the Crossroads, and a contribution to It Was Good: Making Music to the Glory of God. Charlie is the Sr. Music Editor for Christianity Today and host of the Christianity Today Podcast, Music and Meaning. He has been married to Andi Ashworth for nearly fifty years and they have two grown, married children and four grandchildren.We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/The perfect gift for everyone - apparel, drinkware, stickers and more for all the women, men and kids in your life!https://www.gospelspice.com/merchGo to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

We are almost wrapping up our time together with Matthew. Can I say this is bittersweet for me? So, following from last week, I invite you to continue our intriguing journey into the world of Jesus’ parables! Last week, we laid the foundation by understanding the purpose of parables - fulfilling prophecy, focusing on individuals with faith, and describing the kingdom of God. In Matthew 13, Jesus begins his teachings on the mystery kingdom, which plays a crucial role in the epistles of Paul. This mysterious kingdom sets the stage for the parables we're about to explore.Let's start by unpacking the parable of the wheat and the tares. Picture a man sowing good seed in his field, only to find weeds sprouting among the wheat later. Jesus explains privately to his disciples that the good seed represents the sons of the kingdom, while the weeds symbolize the sons of the evil one. The field is the world, and the enemy is the devil. What's fascinating is that true sowing of God's word will always be countered by false teachings. False gospels, trying to soothe the human heart, preach salvation by works. But the true gospel is salvation through God's grace in Christ Jesus alone. Jesus emphasizes that the true and false teachings will coexist until judgment day. So beware of false teachings and remain steadfast in the truth of God's word!Moving on to the parable of the mustard seed. A tiny seed, but when it grows, it becomes a towering tree where birds come to nest. The kingdom of heaven starts small but expands mightily. This parable symbolizes the growth and influence of God's kingdom. It reminds us that even the smallest beginnings can lead to great impact. So let your faith be like that mustard seed, growing and spreading far and wide!As we immerse ourselves in these parables, let's remember that Jesus is teaching all Christians across time and space. Not everyone who claims to be a Christian truly belongs to Christ. Let our lives reflect the truth and reality of a surrendered heart! Keep seeking, keep growing, and keep shining your light in the world!Are you looking for a place to take notes, some topics to research on your own, or some questions you could ponder to go deeper during your quiet time with God or with a friend? Remember, we have workbooks available for this episode, and every other episode of our Jesus Rabbi and Lord series. For each episode, they contain a summary, listening guide, key takeaways, quotes, questions and topics to go deeper. Go to gospelspice.com/jesus to purchase these workbooks.Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit alongside Jesus and his initial audience? To experience the fresh spiritual flavors that the Messianic Jewish culture weaves into the four gospels? Well, that's exactly what we here aim to do through this original series, JESUS RABBI AND LORD. Stephanie invites you to dig deep into Scripture, unearthing raw diamonds that may need a little cleaning up, but will ultimately shine brightly.So get ready to embark on this enlightening and transformative journey with Gospel Spice. Prepare to encounter Jesus in a way that resonates with our modern world and discover the richness of the gospel through the lens of Jewish culture. Let's dig deep, uncover the hidden spices, and experience the beauty of the Scriptures together. Welcome to Gospel Spice!Grab your headphones, hit play, and let Gospel Spice be the catalyst for encountering Jesus in a way you've never experienced before!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO PARTNER WITH GOSPEL SPICE TODAY!First, PAY Gospel Spice Forward: Give a tax-deductible gift so others can experience our ministry for free, just like you! You can pay it forward with any debit, credit card, or via PayPal. See below for more details about your impact.Also, PLAY Gospel Spice Forward: SHARE the podcast and the studies with your friends and family. FOLLOW, RATE & REVIEW on your favorite podcast app (leave a comment + a star rating on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Pandora, IHeart, Google Podcast, etc…). It REALLY is the best way to help others find this content-rich podcast. And, last but not least, PRAY Gospel Spice Forward: We pray for you weekly. We covet your prayers for our ministry, the thousands we reach, and our team! Contact us to let us know you are praying for us!NEW!Another way to partner with us is to purchase our workbooks and online Bible studies. We keep them at the lowest possible cost, but they require a lot of work from us! For example, - a complete Bible Study requires an average of 500 man-hours. - a workbook for a series requires almost 100 man-hours.MORE ABOUT PARTNERING WITH US FINANCIALLY:Gospel Spice Ministries is a non-profit organization registered under the tax-exempt 501c3 status.Our goal is to provide in-depth, high-quality, free Bible resources for all. They are free, but expensive to create! We need your financial support to keep producing and distributing them. Please pay Gospel Spice forward today! For example, a podcast episode takes close to 10 hours of work (and we release 2 each week). They come to you completely free, but we would truly love your support.We want the money to go to those who really need it. Once our operating costs are paid, 100% of your donation is redistributed to our partners who fight human trafficking. Each year, we aim to give as much as we can. For example, Stephanie works more than full time for Gospel Spice, entirely for free. All board members and volunteers are donating time. We limit our operational expenses to the bare minimum.Your pay-it-forward donations are tax-deductible under IRS Section 170.We want to be the best possible stewards of your financial support. Thank you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogDo you enjoy Gospel Spice? Then let's deepen our relationship! There are 4 very simple ways to do that, and it would truly mean the world to us. 1- If you’ve enjoyed this episode, you will love receiving our newsletter. It contains value-packed free gifts and rich content each month. It’s at gospelspice.com/signup. There is always something new and exciting happening around here, and I don’t want you to miss out! Sign up at Gospelspice.com/signup2- Did you know Gospel Spice has a YouTube Channel? There’s exclusive content there too. So, join Gospel Spice on YouTube! It's at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice 3- Also please give us a star rating and a comment on your podcast listening app. Your reviews actually really do make a difference to help others discover and experience Gospel Spice. You would be surprised how helpful these are! So please leave a star rating and a review of a sentence or two. Thank you!4- As always, we are praying for you! You can confidentially email us your prayer requests and praise items at the email address contact@gospelspice.com. It is our privilege to pray for you!So, would you please invest 3 to 5 minutes of your time, maybe even right now, to do one (or more!) of the following suggestions:1-      signup on our website for our newsletter to receive gifts you’re going to love - at Gospelspice.com/signup 2-      find us on YouTube, and see what content we’ve put together to help you grow closer to Jesus - at https://www.youtube.com/gospelspice3-      rate Gospel Spice on your listening app – it’s one of the easiest ways to share the gospel!4-      and finally, tell us how we can pray for you!Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogSupport us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

Bonjour! Stephanie here. How do we overcome anxiety, and embrace peace? More than ever, our daily life seems to fight us on this quest. Do you, like so many of us, see anxiety as an incentive to perform? Or a proof of how much you care? Or is anxiety simply an unwelcome shadow over your days, bringing with it clenched teeth and an upset stomach?Today is an invitation to step into a life characterized by peace, grace, and gentleness, replete with the palpable presence of God. God promises us that it is ours in Christ Jesus. The world does it best to make it impossible. So, which one will it be?Anxiety leads us to succumb to fear and fight peace. Anxious living is a distortion of good motives, blocking the clarity of stillness and rest. Peace is the antidote to anxiety. This peace is found in practicing God's presence and embodying the virtues of grace, found in Christ. But, what does it look like, and how do we get there?This week I welcome Alan Fadling back on the show to dive into a real and raw conversation about overcoming anxiety and finding peace. Alan has felt mastered by worry, but he brings counsel on how to learn a better way and who to look to for it: Jesus, "the ultimate non-anxious presence." He constructs a posture from which we can rest more deeply, live more fully, and lead better. Fixing our minds on grace and eternity, we can begin to see the benefit of loosening our grip and operating from a sure foundation.Alan candidly shares his personal journey, highlighting how anxiety, coupled with perfectionism, led to a cycle of high standards, achievements, and ultimately, dissatisfaction and discouragement. His honest portrayal of himself as a "recovering perfectionist" resonated deeply with me – and I suspect I am not the only one! Alan's emphasis on progress over perfection reminds us that growth is a journey, not a destination. This is a deeply biblical message that our culture has us forget all too easily.And so we find that grace, with its essence of unmerited favor and unconditional love found in Christ, becomes a transformative force, offering solace and redemption in the face of anxiety. This is one of the key messages of Scripture. Alan also shares with us the practice of embodying God's presence and cultivating "little virtues" such as humility, patience, gentleness, dependence, and surrender. He tells us about learning patience in the chaos of Southern California traffic, reminding us that it's the simple things that steer us towards a peaceful life, even when the world seems to have gone upside down. This underscores the significance of relinquishing the incessant pursuit of materialistic and ambitious goals in favor of humility and grace.Scripture makes clear the importance of faith, imagination, and embracing an "unhurried influence." Rattling through life at top speed isn't the secret to peace. Alan’s prayer for the audience to grow in unhurried influence is an open invitation to take the scenic route, savouring the moments, and stepping into a life ruled by peace, grace, and gentleness. So, as you sail away from this episode, remember - peace isn't found in the rush-rush of everyday life, but in the sweet, steady rhythm of grace in Christ Jesus.MORE ABOUT ALAN FADLINGAlan serves as a frequent speaker, consultant and retreat leader with local churches and national organizations such as InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Halftime Institute, Apprentice Institute, Saddleback Church, and Open Doors International. He speaks from the intersection of spiritual formation and leadership, with content that is approachable, usable and transferable.Alan Fadling (M. Div., Fuller Theological Seminary) is President and Founder of Unhurried Living, Inc. in Mission Viejo, CA, inspiring people to rest deeper, live fuller and lead better. He speaks and consults internationally, as well as nationally with organizations such as Saddleback Church, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Cru, Halftime Institute, Apprentice Institute and Open Doors International. He is the award-winning author of An Unhurried Life (IVP 2013), honored with a Christianity Today Award of Merit in spirituality, and An Unhurried Leader (IVP 2017). He is a trained spiritual director. He lives in Mission Viejo, California with his wife, Gem, and their family.https://www.unhurriedliving.com/alanWe invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!