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Ben Miller

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Encounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUTELL YOUR STORY- Ben MillerPaul’s “defense” in Acts 22 provides a beautiful glimpse into how we can share Christ with others.  One of the most powerful ways to share the Gospel involves knowing our own story and speaking it. (Acts 22:1-16, I Peter 3:15-16, I Jn 4:10, Rom 8:5-6, Pr 14:12, Is 53:6, Matt 16:24, John 9, Acts 1:8) 2025-04-2235 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUA NEW GOD IN ATHENS- Ben MillerWhen Paul arrives in Athens, he is invited to share the story of God with a very different group of people.  What lessons can we glean from Paul on what it means to interact with people who are completely unfamiliar with Jesus? (Acts 17:16-34, John 17:14-18, I Peter 2:9-12, Phil 3:20, Matt 26:53, Luke 19:10, Matt 5:14-16, John 1:14, Rev 21:3) 2025-04-0136 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUWHAT IS JOY?  – Ben MillerPaul and Silas, beaten and thrown into prison, sing their songs to the Lord.  What does this teach us about the difference between pleasure, happiness, and joy? (James 1:17, Acts 16:16-40, James 1:17, Rom 15:13, John 15:9-11, Gal 5:22) 2025-03-1831 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUIDOLS – Ben MillerWe think of idols as remnants of ancient civilizations, and yet each of us has a heart that is quick to produce them.  How can we recognize this worthless form of worship for what it is? (Isaiah 44:9-20, Acts 14, Ex 32:19-20, Ps 144:2, Ps 139:1, Ps 56:8, Jer 31:3, Col 3:1-5, I Cor 11:1, Ps 121) 2025-03-0440 minHigh Spirits: The Cannabis Business PodcastHigh Spirits: The Cannabis Business Podcast#077 - Multi-State Brand Building with Miss Grass w/ CEO and Co-Founder, Kate MillerSend us a textJoin Ben Larson & AnnaRae Grabstein on High Spirits as they explore the journey of transforming a hemp marketplace and media site into a multi-state cannabis brand with a strong community focus. We'll be joined by Kate Miller, co-founder and CEO of Miss Grass , who has masterfully steered the brand from its roots as a hemp marketplace to a prominent player in the regulated cannabis market.🚀 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲: In this deep dive, Kate will share her strategies for cultivating a dedicated community, the challenges and triumphs of scaling in a highly competitive industry, and the pivotal decisions that have shaped Miss Grass...2025-02-2848 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUFAITH IN THE STRUGGLE {mental health Q&A}- Ben Miller & Dr. Cedric WilliamsThe people of God earnestly pray for Peter and he is miraculously rescued from prison.  But how do we live in a world where we do not always see an immediate healing or resolution when we pray?  Dr. Cedric Williams joins us for a conversation where we explore how this overlaps the world of mental health. (Acts 12:1-17, Matt 7:7-8a, James 5:16, Matt 17:20, 2 Cor 12:7-10, John 16:33) 2025-02-181h 06Encounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUIT’S A TEAM SPORT- Ben MillerBarnabas might not be a flashy superstar in the New Testament, but his strong influence Barnabas is a great reminder of how we help others become who God has called them to be. (Acts 11:19-30, Acts 4:36, Acts 9:27, Acts 12:25, Prov 27:9, Gal 5:22ff, Matt 7:1-5, Acts 15:36-40, Gal 2:11-15, 2 Tim 4:11) 2025-02-1141 minBad GaysBad GaysLarry KramerToday we profile Larry Kramer, the writer and AIDS activist. Kramer took space, took credit, operated in the world with tremendous privilege, and was somewhere between actively and passively misogynist and racist. But politically effective people are not always as we imagine them. We document Kramer's exclusions and blind spots, and explore how his hatred and fear of gay male sex culture, one that predated the AIDS epidemic, made his political work less effective; his gay male supremacism that led actual gay men to constantly disappoint him; and his prefiguring of a moralizing social media politics understanding rhetorical maximalism...2025-02-051h 10Encounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUMORE THAN A REBRAND- Ben MillerWhen Saul meets Jesus on the road to Damascus, it challenges everything about his life and requires a 180 degree change.  Do I believe that the same Jesus who transformed Saul can transform me? (Acts 9:1-30, Acts 22:3, Phil 3:4-9, 2 Cor 5:17, Rom 8:28, Rev 2:17)   2025-01-2838 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUThe Mastery, Misery, Mystery of Ministry – Ben MillerIn Acts 8, the Church is spreading like a true wildfire.  As the religious rulers try to slow the fire’s spread, God is breathing life into it.  When God tells Ananias to go find Saul in Acts 9, we gain insight into obedience, suffering, and the mystery of God’s holy work in our world. (Acts 9:1-22, Acts 5:34-39, Acts 1:8, Acts 8, Jn 5:30, Prov 15:22, Phil 3:5-11, 2 Cor 11:24-27, 2 Cor 12:9, Mk 4:26-29) 2025-01-1441 minBad GaysBad GaysElisar von KupfferA fascist femboy, a Baltic count, an orientalist white supremacist, editor of the first anthology of gay literature, painter of a 30-meter cyclorama featuring 90 androgynous twinks disporting themselves in the nude in a fantasia of the four seasons, devotee of Adolf Hitler, founder of a new religion, and poet: it's Elisar von Kupffer. Subscribe to Extra Bad Gays for monthly episodes, our advice segments, and to support our work. Check out our new merch, including hats, shirts, and socks. ----more---- SOURCES: Marhoefer, Laurie. “Queer Fascism and the End of Gay Hi...2025-01-071h 05Encounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUALREADY WORKING {influence series}- Ben MillerIn Acts 8, Philip the evangelist helps us understand how to join God in His work of others hearing the Good News of Jesus. (Is 9:2, Is 53, Acts 26-39, Luke 4:16-21, Rom 1:16, I Cor 3:4-7, Eph 2:10) 2024-12-0332 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUDOES SIN STILL MATTER?  {influence series}- Ben MillerAn abrupt and devastating moment happens in the early Church when sin enters the community and death quickly follows behind it.  Why does God deal so harshly with this particular act of dishonesty? (Acts 4:32-5:11, Jer 32:7, Ps 92:15, Ps 143:10, Ps 33:5, Ps 100:4-5, I Jn 1:5, 2 Tim 2:13, Titus 1:2, I Jn 3:20, James 1:13, Rom 6:23, James 1:15, Is 9:18, Is 55:8, Rom 6:11-14, Jn 16:8, James 5:16, Prov 24:16, Matt 6:12) 2024-11-0539 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUYOU HAVE EYES – CAN’T YOU SEE?  {together series}- Ben MillerA crippled beggar is healed by Peter at the temple.  Of the people present, some are ecstatic, others are indifferent, and some are even angry.  Do we have the faith for ask God to miraculously move, and the eyes to see it when He does? (Acts 3:1-4:4, Matt 13:13-15, Mk 8:17-18, Matt 13:22-33, Jn 14:12-14, Mk 10:13-16, Lk 5:18-26, Mk 9:22-24, Jn 17:1, Jn 3:30) 2024-10-2241 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUCUT TO THE HEART {together series}- Ben MillerAs the New Testament Church gets rolling, incredible public revival becomes the natural result of deep personal surrender. (Acts 2:42-47, Rev 21:2-4, Eph 5:25-27, Acts 2:31-38, I Peter 3:21-22, 2 Cor 9:7-8, Mark 12:41-44, Jn 17:20-23, Ezekiel 36:26-27, Isaiah 29:13, Matt 6:21) 2024-10-0840 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUWHO DOESN’T LOVE WAITING? {together series}- Ben MillerThroughout Scripture, waiting on God is spoken of in a very positive way.  If waiting is such a good thing, why do we hate it so much? (Acts 1:4-5, 12-14, Luke 24:46-49, 2 Peter 3:8-9, Ps 130:5-6, Ps 27:14, Ps 37:34, Is 30:18, Is 40:31, Gen 15:1, Gen 16:3, Gen 21:5, Ex 2:11, Ex 3:1, I Sam 16:12) 2024-09-2446 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUBEING FORMED {together series}- Ben MillerThe Christian life is one of transformation.  But if we’re being transformed, what’s the final version of us supposed to look like? (Rom 12:2, 2 Cor 3:18, Gal 4:19, 2 Cor 5:14, Eph 3:14-19, Matt 7:21-23, Rom 8:15, Gen 1:27, Is 43:6, Rev 19:6-9, Jn 15:15, Heb 10:24-25, Matt 28:18-20) 2024-09-1739 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUWITNESSES {together series}- Ben MillerBefore Jesus ascends, he promises his closest disciples that they will become his witnesses.  What does it mean to be a witness for Christ? (Acts 1:4-11, Luke 12:32, Jn 12:46, Jn 10:10, Matt 20:28, Lk 19:10, Rom 10:9-10, Acts 2:38-39, Jn 13:34-35, Matt 5:14-16, Gal 5:22+, I Peter 2:9) 2024-09-1042 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUWHEN RESURRECTION GETS REAL {rise series}- Ben MillerWhat happens in our lives when resurrection goes from being an idea to a lived reality? (Luke 24:13-50, Lk 11:1-4, Acts 1:1-3, Jn 20:19, I Cor 15:6, Jn 11:17-26, I Cor 15:4, Rom 6:5, Rom 6:8, 2 Tim 2:11-12, Col 2:12, Rom 6:4, Gal 2:20, Col 3:3, I Jn 5:12, Eph 2:1-7, Rom 8:11a) 2024-08-2735 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUA HOLY CURIOSITY {rise series}- Ben MillerGod is writing a beautiful story in our lives, but sometimes our desire to be the author of our own story cuts God out of the equation.  Nicodemus points us toward the importance of having a hunger and curiosity to seek out that better Author. (John 3:1-17, 2 Cor 5:17, Jn 7:51, Matt 16:24-25, Matt 7:7-8) 2024-08-2041 minCurious Humans with Jonny MillerCurious Humans with Jonny MillerDiscovering the Hero's Journey to Wholeness with Ben KattBen is the author of the phenomenal new book: The Way Home: Discovering the Hero's Journey to Wholeness at Midlife. I was really excited to talk to Ben because the hero’s journey has been a framework that I still use myself as a way of orienting and meaning making. Ben shares how his own life has been a series of spiraling journeys, embodying the hero’s path.In this conversation, you can expect to learn: 📚  Challenges of refusing the call to adventure🤷‍♂️  The transition between evasion and embracing the unknown.🧘  The work of Bill Plotkin, and ho...2024-08-171h 03Salesforce RadioSalesforce Radio#012 - Maria RajpootWelcome to Salesforce Radio, your destination for insights, news, and connections within the dynamic Salesforce ecosystem! In Episode 12 of Salesforce Radio, Ben Miller pulls up a seat with Salesforce professional Maria Rajpoot. Maria has years of experience in marketing and CRM. So join us in discovering more about Maria's career journey and how she started from not knowing anything about the ecosystem to working directly on the tech side of Salesforce 18 years later. Maria discusses how important it is to understand your business and what needs to change before kicking off implementation. She also zones...2024-07-1037 minSalesforce RadioSalesforce Radio#07 - Mark Good - AI Force Training Welcome to Salesforce Radio, your destination for insights, news, and connections within the dynamic Salesforce ecosystem. In episode 7 of Salesforce Radio, Ben Miller connects with GPT & AI expert Mark Good to discuss the transformative role of artificial intelligence within the Salesforce ecosystem. Mark shares his insights on the ongoing AI revolution, detailing how it's shaping the Salesforce landscape and the broader technological environment. Mark discusses the transition from the initial hype surrounding AI to what he describes as the 'building phase' - a critical period where the real work of integrating AI into business processes begins. Tune...2024-05-1546 minSalesforce RadioSalesforce Radio#06 - Jason Adams - Hoglund & Mrozik LawWelcome to Salesforce Radio, your destination for insights, news, and community connections within the dynamic Salesforce ecosystem! In episode 6, Ben Miller chats with Jason Adams, Director of Operations at Hoglund & Mrozik. After joining the firm eight years ago, Jason introduced the team to Salesforce. Hoglund & Mrozik have never looked back. Today, they continue to push the limits through dynamic self-service processes like document collection, a long-established problem within the legal field.There’s no stopping Jason. He is on a mission to complete Salesforce certifications and launch a partnership focusing on Salesforce implementation in th...2024-04-1731 minSalesforce RadioSalesforce Radio#05 - Bradley Rice - Talent Stacker Welcome to Salesforce Radio, your destination for insights, news, and community connections within the dynamic Salesforce ecosystem! In episode 5, Ben Miller chats with Bradley Rice, owner of Talent Stacker. Bradley's consultancy helps people across all industries land a job in the Salesforce ecosystem.Bradley has many years of Salesforce experience and loads of advice to jumpstart your employment journey. Listen to our podcast to find out more about Bradley's unique adventure and what he thinks are the biggest Salesforce trends in 2024! 2024-04-1046 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISULOST {parables and practices series}- Ben MillerGod makes it very clear that He cares deeply about lost people.  This was Jesus’ mission statement, and should certainly shape our own. (Lk 15:4-7, Jn 10:10-15, Lk 19:10, Lk 7:34, Psalm 23, 2 Peter 3:9, John 10:11, John 21, I Peter 5:1-4, Ezekiel 34, Gen 4:1-16) 2024-04-0238 minSalesforce RadioSalesforce Radio#03 - Amanda Perkins ConsultingWelcome back, Salesforce users, trailblazers, and Titans! Salesforce Radio, hosted by Ben Miller, is your destination for insights, news, and connections within the Salesforce ecosystem. In Episode 3, Ben is chatting with the owner of Amanda Perkins Consulting Inc. Amanda has worked in the Salesforce space under different roles for a decade and is now helping businesses bridge the gap between technical and practical Salesforce solutions. Join us in this podcast as Amanda shares her career journey and explains how she went from selling solutions like Sales Cloud, Service Cloud, and Pardot to i...2024-03-2744 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUNOT FAIR {parables and practices series}- Ben MillerWe are the receivers of God’s deep blessing and grace, and yet feel slighted when we sense that others get more than their fair share of the very same thing. (Matt 20:1-16, Gen 1-3, Rom 7:18-22, Matt 19:29-30, Ps 103:10-13, Rom 8:1, Luke 15:11-32, Heb 12:2) 2024-03-2636 minSalesforce RadioSalesforce Radio#02 - Joseph Kubon + Andy Forbes - ChatGPT for Salesforce Development Welcome to Salesforce Radio, your destination for insights, news, and connections within the dynamic Salesforce ecosystem. In episode 2 of Salesforce Radio, Ben Miller sits down with Joseph Kubon and Andy Forbes, co-authors of the trailblazing book ChatGPT for Accelerating Salesforce Development. Since the 1950s, we’ve been learning to speak the language of computers. We are about to enter a world where computers learn to speak our language! In the past, we could touch, feel, and see the information shaping our lives but today everything is in the cloud! We have no idea where any...2024-03-2138 minSalesforce RadioSalesforce Radio#01 - Interview with Jordan NelsonWelcome to Salesforce Radio! In this interview, Ben Miller from Titan, sits down with Jordan Nelson, founder of Simple Salesforce, to find out what makes him tick.  Jordan has consulted for dozens of Salesforce orgs and has recently been named a LinkedIn Top Voice. This puts him in the top 0.5% of the LinkedIn community and officially recognizes him as a thought leader in his field. He is one of the only members in the Salesforce influencer space to achieve this! 2024-03-1243 minBad GaysBad GaysJames LevineWarning: this episode contains discussions of child sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and workplace sexual assault. Listener discretion is advised. Many people may have seen Maestro, a biopic about the American conductor Leonard Bernstein, a handsome and extroverted communicator. The next most famous gay Jewish conductor of the 20th century was, in many ways, Bernstein’s opposite. Neither handsome nor extroverted, he made his musical mark not as a flamboyant podium acrobat or someone who communicated with the public but as a musician’s musician. His career ended after years of rumors culminated in several serious allegations of sexu...2024-03-1259 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEVERYTHING OR NOTHING {parables and practices series}- Ben MillerJesus wants us to understand how His Kingdom works, and gives us 2 small parables that help us understand the incredible value of His good news and the high cost of accepting it. (Matt 13:44-46, Matt 23:13, Matt 13:33, Matt 16:25, Matt 20:16, 2 Cor 12:9, I Peter 5:6, Eph 2:1-2, 4-7, I Jn 1:9, Eph 1:13-14, Rom 8:11, Eph 2:19-21, I Cor 3:9a, Rev 21:3-5, Matt 16:24-25, Rom 12:1, Rom 6:4)  2024-03-0538 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISULOGS, EYES, PEARLS, & PIGS   {parables and practices series}- Ben MillerWe all desire a deep sense of peace, but the path to shalom requires us following Christ into some very hard places. (Matt 7:1-6, Isaiah 26:3, Jn 14:27, I Jn 4:1, Gal 6:1, Eph 5:11, 2 Tim 4:1-8, Is 33:22, Ps 75:7, Rom 2:16, Matt 18:5+, Prov 18:2) 2024-02-2736 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUWHAT PRAYER IS  {parables and practices series}- Ben MillerPrayer is the conduit by which we experience God in relationship. Let’s experience what prayer is and what it does in and through every follower of Jesus. (Luke 3:21, Matt 14:23, Mk 6:46, Lk 6:12, Mk 1:35, Lk 5:16, Lk 9:18, Matt 26:36, Matt 17:20, Jn 14:26, Jn 16:13, Jn 16:8, Acts 1:8, Matt 5:23-24, Is 1:8, Lam 3:22-23, Jn 10:27, I Thess 5:17) 2024-02-131h 08Encounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUWHAT LIGHT DOES  {parables & practices series}- Ben MillerIn Jesus’ short parable about light, we learn a great deal about how our faith, connected to our behaviors, is a powerful beacon in a very dark world. (Matt 5:14-16, Matt 5:3-12, I Jn 1:5, Ps 4:6, Ps 27:1, Ps 28:28, Ps 89:15, Jn 1:9-10, Col 1:11-14, Jn 15:19, I Cor 6:11, Eph 5:3-8, Jn 12:47, Jn 13:35, Jn 8:12, Ps 36:9, Ps 119:105, Jn 3:20, Is 9:2) 2024-02-0642 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUNEW WINE, OLD WINESKINS   {parables & practices series}- Ben MillerWe desire God to move and work in our lives.  Yet when He uses a particular tool to do just that, we begin to obsess about that tool and forget the One who gave it. (Mk 2:18-3:6, Heb 13:8, Mal 3:6, Rev 1:8, James 1:17, Ps 90:2, Jn 8:58, Is 43:19, Matt 23:4, Gal 3:24-25, Heb 7:19, I Kings 19:9-18, Ex 3, Luke 5) 2024-01-2345 minTangent 💚 ProptechTangent 💚 ProptechFundrise CEO Ben Miller on Real Estate & VC Investment Strategies, Macro Trends for 2024 & Building the Online BlackstoneBen Miller is the co-founder and CEO of Fundrise, the largest direct-to-consumer alternative asset manager in the US. Under his leadership, Fundrise has grown to over 2 million active users and over $3 billion in real estate private equity, private credit, and growth-stage venture capital. Ben also serves as Chairman of the Board of three publicly-registered investment companies and, during his 25-year career, has acquired more than $8 billion of real estate assets, including 37,000 residential units and 5 million square feet of industrial and commercial space. (00:26) - Fundrise's journey to revolutionizing private market investing(8:13) - Benefits of end-to-end platform experience2024-01-0451 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUALL THINGS NEW {turning point series}- Ben MillerIn our current age, we see through a glass, darkly.  But God has promised that there is a time coming where he will remake and restore our world.  And He’s a God who keeps His promises. (Rev 21:1-5, I Cor 13:12, Gen 2:17, Gen 3, Jn 16:33, I Peter 5:8, Eph 6:12, Rom 5:17-18, I Cor 15:22, Gen 15:13, Ex 14:29-30, Isaiah 7,9,11,53, Micah 5:2, Num 23:19, Josh 21:45, Josh 23:14, Jn 14:1-3, Jn 6:40, Heb 9:28) 2023-12-0533 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUJUST A DREAM {turning point series}- Ben MillerJoseph seems to attract favor and trouble everywhere he goes.  God gives him a unique gift that becomes a turning point in one of his darkest moments.  What gifts has God given us?  How do we discover and use those gifts? (Gen 36-46, Prov 3:35, I Cor 12:14-21, Eph 4:11-14, Jn 3:8) 2023-11-2846 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISURushing God’s Timing {turning point series}- Jo MillerAbraham and Sarah decide they have waited long enough, and have a child with their maidservant Hagar. They twist God’s promise to the point of justifying sin to make it happen. Our desire to bypass God’s timing will never produce the result he intended. (Sarah’s plan quickly results in her own jealousy and hatred) This week we hear how 3 people’s stories of rushing God’s timing. 2023-11-0755 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUI CAN’T DO THIS {turning point series}- Ben MillerMoses looks at his own resources and knows they don’t equal the task at hand.  If Moses would dare to lift his eyes up, he’d realize his human limitations are not God’s limitations. (Ex 3-4, Acts 7:22, Matt 14:14-21, Gen 50:20, Rom 8:28, 1 Cor 1:27, Acts 4:13, 2 Cor 12:9, Matt 21:42, Phil 3:7-8, Is 64:6, Gal 2:20, 2 Cor 5:17, Rom 8:1, Rom 8:14-15, Jn 15:15, Matt 28:20, Jn 14:16, Jn 14:7, Rom 8:9, Eph 1:3, I Cor 12:7, Jn 16:13, Rom 8:11, Jn 14:12, Rom 8:31, Matt 16:18) 2023-10-3135 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUTHE SELF-HARM OF SIN {turning point series}- Ben MillerIn a desperate moment, Moses lets his anger get the better of him and murders a man.  This turning point may teach us some things about sin that we allow in our own lives.   (Ex 2:11-15, I Jn 1:5, Eph 5:18, Rom 6:12, James 1:14-15, Numbers 32:23, 2 Cor 5:23, Is 1:18, Lam 3:22-23, Jn 16:8, I Jn 1:9, 2 Cor 7:10, James 5:16-17, Matt 5:23-24, Ps 34:14, Eph 6, Ps 119:11, Heb 12:1-2, I Peter 5:8-9, Matt 5:29, Prov 4:14-15, Gen 39:7) 2023-10-2439 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUIN THIS WORLD YOU WILL HAVE TROUBLE {turning point series}- Ben MillerWe see a picture of a perfect Garden in Genesis and in Revelation, but in between those gardens is another garden, one of suffering.  What does it mean to live a life of faith in a world where we can expect trouble and suffering? (Mark 14:32-42, Heb 4:15, Jn 16:33, Neh 8:10, Luke 4:13, Matt 26:52-53, I Cor 10:13, Jn 17:14, Matt 5:4, Ps 34:18, Ps 147:3, James 1:3, Rom 8:28) 2023-10-1050 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUOPPORTUNITIES OR OBSTACLES {turning point series}- Ben MillerJesus loves to provide invitations that beckon us beyond our barriers.  But when we ignore too many of his invitations, the opportunities God provides may start to look more like obstacles. (Acts 9:1-19, Acts 22:3, Phil 3:5, James 4:6, 2 Chron 16:9, Psalm 23) 2023-10-0329 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUBREAKFAST WITH JESUS {turning point series} – Ben MillerIn the life of Peter, we watch the power of a submitted, struggling-toward-the-Lord, kind of life. And through Peter’s journey, we hear whispers of what Jesus desires to accomplish in each of us. (John 21:2-19, Lk 5:1-10, Mk 5:41, Matt 14:22-33, Matt 26:31-35, Mk 14:66-72, Rom 12:1, Prov 24:16, I Cor 12:4-6, 2 Cor 12:8-10, Rom 8:28, Acts 3:12-13, I Peter 5:1-4) 2023-09-1938 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUA NEW NAME {turning point series} – Ben MillerIn one of their first interactions, Jesus decides to give Simon an entirely new name.  Jesus doesn’t just see the man in front of him; he sees what that man has yet to become.  What future version of us might Jesus see when he looks at us? (Jn 1:35-42, Matt 17:1-6, Matt 16:13-18, Rev 2:17b, Matt 16:18, Matt 16:24-25, Jn 3:30) 2023-09-1239 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUAWKWARD DINNER PARTY  {turning point series} – Ben MillerA bizarre moment with Jesus at a dinner party with Simon the Pharisee rewrites our understanding of love and grace.  Knowing we are loved and forgiven allows us to respond in real worship.   (Luke 7:35-50, Lk 5:12, Lk 7:6, Matt 22:35-40, Deut 6:4-9, I Jn 4:19, Luke 15:1-30, Jer 31:3) 2023-08-2941 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUTHE GREAT INVITATION {turning point series} – Ben MillerWhat do the prophet Isaiah and Mary, mother of Jesus, have in common? They both respond to a huge interruption with a resounding yes. How do we respond when God invites us into a life of purpose and partnership but comes with a cost?   (Isaiah 6:1-8, Luke 1:26-38) 2023-08-2342 minBad GaysBad GaysBenedetta CarliniWhat's your favorite Paul Verhoeven film? We knew you were going to say Showgirls–but we'll put in a word for his latest, Benedetta, with Charlotte Rampling acting up a storm and nuns diddling each other with dildos carved out of statues of the Virgin. Improbably, the film is based on a true story: and within it, and within its subject's life, there are important themes of power, gender transgression, sin, belief and deviance that are worth discussing in more detail. Today, we discuss the 16th century mystic nun, lesbian, possibly demonically possessed and possibly visionary heretic, Benedetta Carlini....2023-06-061h 19Encounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUTURNING POINT – Ben MillerEvery day offers us new invitations from the Lord.  Will we take them?   (Acts 2:36-47) 2023-04-1836 minBad GaysBad GaysMustapha Ben Ismaïl (with Arthur Asseraf)Today we welcome special guest (and Associate Professor in History at the University of Cambridge) Arthur Asseraf to talk about Mustapha Ben Ismaïl, a terrifyingly ambitious twink who rose from being an illiterate street beggar to Prime Minister on the strength of the king's love for him –– and whose disastrous policies helped bring an end to Tunisia's independence.  Arthur's Twitter. Arthur's faculty page. ----more---- SOURCES: Ramy Khouili & Daniel Levine-Spound, Article 230: A History of the Criminalization of Homosexuality in Tunisia, available online: https://article230.com/en/article-320-eng/…   Marcel Gandolphe, ‘Une figure...2023-04-111h 02Encounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUHALLOWED BE YOUR NAME {lord’s prayer series} – Ben MillerAcknowledging the holiness of God comes early in Jesus’ pattern of prayer.  How can it be that our God is both holy and familiar?   (Matt 6:9, Jn 8:12, Jn 12:35, James 1:17, I Jn 1:5, Ex 3:13, Is 6:1-8, Heb 4:16, Rom 8:3-4, Phil 3:9, Matt 5:48, Eph 5:8-9, Ex 34:35) 2023-03-2039 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUPRAY LIKE THIS {lord’s prayer series} – Ben MillerFor millenia, Jesus’ followers have followed his example of prayer in Matthew 6.  What are the promises and boundaries that Jesus gives us for the prayer-filled life?   (Matt 6:5-13, Ex 30:7-8, Ps 141:2, Luke 1:8-10, Rev 5:8, I Chron 29:11, James 1:5, Ps 116:1-2, Ps 145:18, Ps 22:1, Matt 27:46, James 5:15, I Jn 5:14, Daniel 3:15-18, I Thess 5:16-18, Luke 11:5-13, Luke 18:1-8, Luke 18:9-15, I Sam 1:15, I Thess 5:16-18, 2 Cor 12:7, Rom 8:26, Rom 8:34) 2023-02-2838 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUTO HIS MISSION {grace leads series} – Ben MillerJesus knew what His mission was on this earth and invites us into that same work.  Our God is painting a beautiful picture of redemption and has handed us the paintbrush to paint with Him.   (Rev 21:2-5a, Luke 19:10, Jn 10:10, Jn 8:31-32, Mk 10:45, Jn 18:37, Jn 6:38, Jn 12:46, Mk 2:17, Rom 12:1, 2 Cor 5:17, I Cor 13:12, James 1:17, Matt 6:10, Ps 107:2-3, Rom 12:1, Rom 8:28, Eph 4:1) 2023-02-2145 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUTO HIS COMMUNITY {grace leads series} – Ben MillerGrace leads us into authentic community with others who follow Jesus.  When struggling, our tendency to avoid vulnerability with others is often the very thing that keeps us from finding healing. (Acts 2:42-47, Gal 3:28, Heb 10:24-25, Matt 16:18, I Peter 2:9, Col 3:12-13, Gal 6:2, James 5:16a) 2023-02-1435 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUTO HIS VOICE {grace leads series} – Ben MillerGod calls us sons and daughters.  He calls us His spouse and friend.  Our God desires to intimately know us, and grace urges us to seek that out. The Christian life is much larger than just knowing more about God.  It is a journey to knowing Him. (Jn 19:14-15, Jn 17:3, Matt 7:22, Rom 8:15, Matt 23:37, Rev 19:19, Jn 15:15, Phil 3:10, I Cor 13:12, Deut 31:6, Matt 28:20, Jn 14:26, Is 41:10, Ps 23:4, I Kings 19, Matt 7:7-8) 2023-02-0742 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUTO HIS TRUTH {grace leads series} – Ben MillerGrace, our great motive in the Christian life, will always lead us toward God’s truth.  Because God created us and knows us, He also knows what’s best for us.  A growing follower of Jesus begins to accept and practice the truth God reveals. (Gen 1:27, Rom 7:18-25, 2 Cor 5:17, Isaiah 55:8-9, Psalm 119, Proverbs 14:12, 2 Tim 3:16, Heb 4:12, Prov 24:16) 2023-01-3141 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUGRACE, OUR GREAT MOTIVE {grace leads series} – Ben MillerGod is not trying to hide the path that leads us closer to Him.  In fact, He has left many great landmarks for us to follow, and we therefore must learn to recognize them.  The first landmark in the Christian life is grace, the beautiful love of Christ poured out on His children. (2 Cor 5:14-15, Heb 12:1, I Jn 3:1, I Jn 4:10, I Jn 4:7, Jn 3:16, Eph 3:17-19, Matt 18:21–33, Jn 21:15-17) 2023-01-2433 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISULIKE A TREE {grace leads series} – Ben MillerIn the Christian life, our growth in Christ is beautifully mysterious.  Despite that mystery, we’re given many markers along that path to lead us toward growth and maturity.  What does that growth look like? (Jer 17:7-8, Mark 4:26-29) 2023-01-1735 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUAMONG US {miraculous series} – Ben MillerGod becoming human and living among us is arguably the greatest miracle of human history.  As Jesus came to love us closely and personally, so we are to imitate that incarnation in our world as well.   (John 1:1-16, Gen 3:8, Ex 3:7-8a, Is 7:14, Luke 2:6-7, Rev 21:3-4, Jer 29:14, Matt 5:14-16) 2022-12-0639 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUFISH, REDEMPTION, & GROWTH {miraculous series} – Ben MillerGod has a sense of humor.  Through the miracles in Peter’s life, we learn that following Jesus is a winding journey and growth in Him isn’t always linear.   (Luke 5:1-11, Jn 21:4-11, Jn 1:42, Matt 14:28, Matt 14:19, Mk 4:39, Mk 9:4, Mk 5:42, Matt 16:15-22, Mark 14:66-72, Acts 2:41, Acts 4:13, Gal 2:11-13, Prov 24:16, Heb 12:14, Eph 4:24, Rom 12:2, I Thess 4:7, I Peter 3:11, I Thess 5:23-24) 2022-11-0138 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUJOYFUL. PRAYERFUL. THANKFUL. {miraculous series} – Ben MillerWhen Jesus heals 10 lepers and sends them on their way, only one returns to give thanks.  This miracle prods us to remember our own rhythms of gratitude.   (Luke 17:11-19, I Thess 5:16-18, Mk 10:52, Lk 7:10, Matt 8:15, Lk 8:44, Mk 8:23, Jn 9:6, Ex 16:2-3, Matt 16:9-10, Ps 116:1-2) 2022-10-2528 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUA BETTER THEOLOGY OF SUFFERING {miraculous series} – Ben MillerIn the middle of an incredible story of resurrection, we find a tender moment where Jesus refuses to let a suffering woman remain anonymous.   (Luke 8:40-56, I Cor 15:14, Lev 15:25, Lev 15:27, Phil 3:10, Matt 5:45b, I Peter 5:10, Rev 21:4, Jn 16:33, Is 53:3, Gen 16, Jer 1:5, Jn 10:27, Luke 12:6-7, Matt 6:25-32, Is 41:10, Josh 1:9, Ps 23:4, Matt 28:20, Rom 8:28, I Cor 10:13, James 1:3, 2 Cor 12:9) 2022-10-1837 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUAUTHORITY & TRUST {miraculous series} – Ben MillerThe Centurion trusted that Jesus’ words were true even when circumstances had yet to say otherwise.  Can we exercise the same kind of faith when we haven’t yet received our answer?   (Matt 8:5-10,13, Mk 10:17, Ps 56:3-4, Is 12:2, Is 41:10, Is 26:3, Rom 15:13, Ps 9:10, Ps 28:7, Ps 32:10, Ps 143:8, Jer 17:7-8, I Jn 5:14-15, James 5:16, Matt 21:22, Jn 15:7, Matt 7:11, Mk 9:22-24, Eph 6:10, Matt 16:4, 2 Cor 12:7) 2022-10-0432 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUA DEEPER HEALING {miraculous series} – Ben MillerIn his interaction with a paralyzed man, Jesus shows his ability to bring both spiritual and physical healing.  As we experience healing in Christ, our scars allow us to point others to the true source of our healing. (Luke 5:17-26, Luke 4:17-21, John 10:30, Luke 12:4, John 4:13-15, Rom 3:23, Rom 3:10, Rom 5:8, Rom 8:28, Rom 1:20, I Peter 5:10, Jn 20:27, Rev 21:1-5a) 2022-09-2736 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUWINE AND WAVES {miraculous series} – Ben MillerJesus lived in the reality that His Father divinely interrupts and intervenes in the natural world.  Do we believe this?   (Jn 2:1-11, Mk 4:35-41, Jn 8:58, Jn 1:1, Jn 1:14, Jn 10:30, Jn 5:24, Jn 18:36, 2 Kings 6:17-20, I Cor 6:19, Rom 8:11, Eph 1:14, I Cor 12:4-6, Jn 14:12, Mk 11:22-23, Mk 10:14, Mk 9:24) 2022-09-2040 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISULOVING WITH YOUR HEAD, HEART, AND HANDS {the greatest series} – Ben MillerReal love involves the head, the heart, and the hands.  Jesus’ parable challenges us to love others in a deeply personal and costly way. Matt 22:35-40, Luke 10:25,37, Gen 4:9, Eph 4:32, Eph 5:21, Heb 3:13, James 5:16, Eph 4:2, Gal 5:13, Gal 6:2, Rom 5:14, Rom 14:19, Heb 10:24, Luke 8:43-48, Luke 5:17-27, Luke 19:1-5, James 1:27, James 2:14-16, James 5:16, Matt 8:3, Jn 3:16 2022-09-0636 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUIMAGO DEI {the greatest series} – Ben Miller Our greatest commandment preaches not only love for God, but also for others.  When we begin to see people as our Father sees them, we trade our hate and unforgiveness for love and compassion – and the world takes notice. (Matt 22:35-40, Luke 10:25-37, 2 Cor 5:14-15, Gen 1:27, Jn 4:1-26, Matt 25:40-45, Jn 13:34-35) 2022-08-2940 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISULOVING GOD WITH … EVERYTHING? {the greatest series} – Ben MillerJesus tells us that the greatest commandment is to love God with our entire selves.  That sounds great, but what does loving God actually look like? (Matt 22:34-40, Deut 6:5, Lev 19:18, Eph 2:10, I Jn 4:7-10, Jer 31:3, Rom 5:8, Jn 3:16, I Jn 4:19, Gal 2:20, Ps 116:1-2, Jn 14:7, Jn 10:27, James 1:22) 2022-08-2338 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUNAME ABOVE ALL NAMES {the greatest series} – Ben MillerThe Kingdom of heaven runs by different rules.  Those who humble themselves, God will exalt.  When we look at the extreme way Christ humbled himself, we begin to understand why the name of Jesus is lifted higher than any other. (Phil 2:7-11, Eph 1:21, Heb 1:4, Phil 2:9, John 7:15, John 8:28, Matt 20:16, Matt 16:25, Matt 23:12, James 4:10, Mark 15:16-20, Rev 1:13-14, Rev 4:9-11, Acts 4:12) 2022-04-2223 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUOUR NORTH STAR {the greatest series} – Ben MillerSometimes Scripture can feel like a great jumble of stories, history, and rules.  In the last week of Jesus’ life, he gives us 2 simple instructions that will become the north star of our lives. (Matt 22:34-40, Deut 6:4-6, Lev 19:18, Jn 13:1-20, I Jn 4:20-21, Rom 13:10, Gal 5:14, James 2:15-16, I Jn 3:16-18) 2022-04-2235 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUWHEN EVIL IS IN CHARGE {life of David series} – Ben MillerDavid refuses to take Saul’s life, even when he has every political reason to do so.  As followers of Jesus, how do we deal with evil people in authority? (I Sam 26:1-11, Jn 18:36, Jn 19:11, Jn 6:15, I Sam 8:10, I Peter 2:13-17, Acts 4:18-20, Matt 5:40-44, Rom 12:9-21) 2022-04-0539 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUFRIENDSHIP {life of David series} – Ben MillerDavid and Jonathan develop a deep, meaningful friendship together.  Their friendship reveals Christ’s love for us and shows us how to develop intentional friendships ourselves.  We were not created to live life alone. (I Sam 19:1-7, I Sam 20:30-35, I Sam 20:42, Luke 6:32-36, I Sam 23:15-16, Jn 15:12-13, Is 53:5, John 15:12-13, I Jn 2:1, Rom 5:8, Luke 23:34, John 17:26, John 15:15, Rev 21:2, Acts 2:42-47) 2022-03-2338 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUDELAYS {life of David series} – Ben MillerGod reveals to David that he will be King of Israel, a calling that won’t be fully realized for another 22 years.  What do we do in seasons of waiting? (Ps 51:1-4, 2 Peter 3:8-9, I Sam 1, 2 Cor 12:9, Mark 14:39, Luke 18:7, Matt 25:29, Psalm 27) 2022-01-3137 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUDavid: An Unlikely Anointing {life of David series} – Ben MillerDavid became a larger than life hero in Scripture and cultural icon, but that wasn’t always the case.  His story begins in small spaces with an anointing from the Lord, and teaches us important lessons about the anointing that Christ promised us as well. (I Sam 16:1-13, I Sam 8:5, I Sam 9:2, I Cor 11:1, Prov 24:16, James 4:10, Matt 7:21-23, Gal 5:22-23, John 16:7, I Cor 6:19, Rom 8:11, Eph 1:13) 2022-01-2427 minChroniFI PodcastChroniFI PodcastChroniFI Podcast TrailerBen Miller sounds off on all things personal and/or finance. I’ll tackle topics related to Financial Independence, time, money, psychology, philosophy, happiness, and personal finance.2021-12-1700 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUA NEW AND DIFFERENT WAY {I AM series} – Ben MillerGod knew that we would be unable to save ourselves, and gave us a new path back to Him.  When we embrace Christ, we are freed from managing our own righteousness. (Jn 14:1-7, Jn 10:6, Jn 10:9, Is 53:6, Rom 3:10, Rom 5:6, Is 7:14, Is 9:6, Micah 5:2, Eph 2:8-9, 2 Tim 1:9, 2 Cor 5:21, Acts 9:1-2, Acts 19:9, Jn 14:8-9) 2021-11-2930 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUABIDE {I AM series} – Jo MillerHow do we know when we are abiding in Christ? John 15 beckons us to look at our fruit to understand if we are truly dependent on our creator. John 15:1-11 2021-11-1624 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUHOLDING GRIEF AND JOY {I AM series} – Ben Miller & Tonya BassettOur future glory gives us hope, but does not erase our current pain.  How, as followers of Jesus, do we live with grief and joy at the same time? (Jn 11:17-44, I Cor 15:14, Jn 14:3, I Jn 4:8, Prov 6:16, Ex 20:5, Zeph 3:17, Gen 6:6, Ps 135:14, Ps 2:4, Heb 4:15, Phil 2:5-11) 2021-11-0952 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISULOVING OTHERS OR USING THEM {I AM Series} – Ben MillerWhen we see others as sheep that are entrusted to us by the Great Shepherd, we align ourselves with the heart of God.  When we see people only as resources, we are no longer seeing with shepherd eyes. (John 10:11-15, Ps 100:3, Is 53:6, Jer 3:15, Psalm 23:1-4, Jn 15:12-13, I Peter 5:2-4, Ezekiel 34:1-12, Matt 22:36-40, Matt 20:28, Prov 27:6, Matt 9:36-38, Jn 21:15-18) 2021-11-0143 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUI AM THE BREAD OF LIFE {I AM series} – Jo MillerThis “I AM” statement follows after the miraculous feeding of the 5000 in early John 6.  Jesus knows that stomachs are driving the crowds more than their hearts.  We can connect the manna given to the Israelites in Exodus 16 (as Jesus does in John 6:48).  Even with miracles in our eyes, we can still miss the point.  Our souls have a hunger that resembles our stomach’s, which makes the visceral experience of communion that much more powerful of an image. John 6:35, 48 / Exodus 16:4 2021-10-1300 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUI AM NOT {I AM series} – Ben MillerJohn the Baptist gives us a great primer on the Christian life. To learn who we are, we must learn who we’re not. We aren’t the Messiah, even though we’re often great at pretending we are. (John 1:19-27, Jn 3:30, Zech 9:9, Jn 12:14, Mal 4:5-6, Deut 18:15, Matt 11:9-11, Is 40:3, Matt 23:4, Matt 16:25, Mark 1:4, Acts 13:24, Eph 4:29, James 3:8, Col 3:17, Rom 12:1)   2021-10-0500 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUDEPUTIZED {awake series} – Ben MillerAll authority belongs to Jesus, who then turns around and gives authority to us. What are we supposed to do with this calling on our lives? What does it mean to live as a commissioned follower of Jesus? (Matt 28:16-20, Acts 1:8, Rom 12:1, Jn 13:35, Gal 3:27) 2021-09-3000 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISURESTORATION {fall retreat 2021} – Ben MillerSunday AM – Rev 21:2-6 – God is painting a picture for our future where everything leads back to perfection.  What’s more, He’s letting you paint with him. 2021-09-1933 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUTHE FALL {fall retreat 2021} – Jo MillerSaturday AM – Our sin and obstacles are real, but our God is faithful.  Romans 3:23 2021-09-1834 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUCREATION {fall retreat 2021} – Ben MillerFriday PM – Gen 1:1 – In the beginning, God chose to create an object for His love. 2021-09-1700 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUPRESENCE & POWER {awake series} – Ben MillerBehold, the veil was torn.  Many supernatural events happened when Jesus died.  Why all the fuss about a torn curtain? (Matt 27:45-54, Gen 2:17, Gen 9:11, Gen 17:4, Ex 19:5-6, Ex 26:31-33, Jer 31:31, Lk 22:20, Heb 8:6, Matt 5:17, Num 11:17-25, Deut 34:9, Ps 51:11, I Kings 3:7-12, Joel 2:28-29, Jn 14:25-26, Jn 16:7, Acts 1:4-5, Acts 2:1-4, Psalm 22:1, Eph 3:20, Rom 8:11) 2021-09-1335 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUUNHINDERED WORSHIP {awake series} – Ben MillerIn Luke 7, a tender interaction with Jesus invites us deeper into worship. (Luke 7:36-50, Rom 3:23, I Jn 1:8, Is 64:6, Matt 22:26-40, Heb 4:16, Ez 36:26, I Jn 3:1) 2021-09-0632 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUINFUSED {awake series} – Ben MillerLambs and baptisms apparently have something in common.  God knew we needed familiar landmarks to help us see, understand, and participate in the spiritual world. But when we remove God from that equation, we’re left with cold, lifeless religion. (Jn 1:26-37, Heb 9:22, Hos 6:6, Ps 51:16, I Sam 15:22, Matt 5:17-20, Acts 2:37-39, Acts 8:12, Acts 22:16, Col 2:12, Gal 3:27, I Peter 3:21, Jn 1:14, I Jn 1:1, Phil 2:5-11, Heb 10:1-10, Eph 2:8-9, Rom 12:1) 2021-08-2437 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUPAY ATTENTION {awake series} – Ben MillerElisha’s servant gets a rude awakening when his eyes are opened by God, revealing a reality unknown to him before.  If we accept that God is real and Jesus is who he said he was, then our eyes need to be opened as well. (2 Kings 6:11-17, Matt 26:50-54, Eph 6:12, Matt 13:15, Jn 20:24-29, Matt 7:7-12, Jer 29:13, Is 43:19, Jn 13:3, Matt 17:20, Matt 6:25, Jn 14:12, Matt 16:18, Rom 8:11) 2021-08-1635 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUIF YOU’RE GONNA BOAST… {lessons from a broken body series} – Ben MillerWhen we boast about ourselves, we broadcast our own foolishness.  But there is a kind of boasting that is Scripturally approved. (2 Cor 10:17-18, James 4:16, Ps 10:3, Prov 25:27, James 4:6, Rev 3:19, I Cor 1:31, Jer 9:23-24a, Ps 23:2, I Cor 1:29, 2 Cor 1:20-22, 2 Cor 11:30, 2 Cor 12:9, 1 Cor 1:27-31, 2 Cor 1:14, I Thess 2:19, I Ptr 5:6, James 5:10, Jn 3:30) 2021-05-0429 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUMETAMORPHOSIS {lessons from a broken body series} – Ben MillerWhen we accept the love and forgiveness of Christ, He transforms us.  If we are being changed by Christ, what does the end product look like? (2 Cor 5:14-17, 2 Cor 3:18b, I Thess 5:23-24, Matt 16:24, James 1:22, I Jn 2:4, Matt 28:20, 2 Cor 6:18, Jn 14:26, Jn 16:7-8, Jn 16:13, I Cor 12:7-11, Eph 1:13, Rom 8:26, Gal 5:22-25, Eph 5:26, Heb 10:25, Acts 2:47, Luke 19:10, I Cor 9:22b, Matt 9:36-38) 2021-04-0132 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUGODLY SORROW {lessons from a broken body series} – Ben MillerThe word religious has become synonymous with judgement.  People see Christians and the Church as morality police, chasing people around and slapping sinners’ hands.  This misconception of sin, grace, and the identity of the Church leaves us living in pride or shame instead of grace.  The Apostle Paul shows us a better path. (2 Cor 7:8-13a, Gen 1:26, Eph 4:24, Gen 3:8, Rom 3:23, Rom 7:15-20, Ps 95:8, Ps 53:3, I Cor 10:13, Jn 8:36, Rom 8:1) 2021-03-1632 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUFOR THE CITY – Ben MillerThe people of the southern kingdom have been beaten, captured, and relocated.  In that new setting, Jeremiah, the weeping prophet, gives surprising instructions on how to live in a place that isn’t home. (Jer 29:4-7, Eph 5:11, I Peter 1:15, Lev 11:44, Matt 9:12, Jn 6:15, Jn 18:10, Mk 12:17, I Ptr 2:11, Ph 3:20, Jn 17:14-18, I Peter 2:9, Phil 2:7) 2021-03-1027 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUVEILS {lessons from a broken body series} – Ben MillerWe are prone to worship things and people, but God alone deserves our devotion.   When we remove the veils in our lives and set our gaze on Him, we are naturally transformed into His likeness. (2 Cor 3:12-18, 2 Cor 3:4, Heb 4:16, Isaiah 6:5, Luke 11:39, Ex 20:18-21, Ex 34:30, Acts 14:11-15, I Cor 11:1) 2021-03-0327 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUYOU SMELL {lessons from a broken body series} – Ben MillerThroughout the Bible, offerings have a particular “aroma” to God.  Our lives, likewise, when given to God become a fragrant offering.  As our lives become a pleasing aroma to the Lord, others begin to pick up on the scent. (2 Cor 2:14-17, Gen 8:21, Ex 29:18, Lev 1:17, Luke 7:36-39, Eph 5:1-2, Rom 12:1, Lev 26:31, Is 1:11-13, I Peter 1:14, Matt 5:14 2021-02-1829 minEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUEncounter at Illinois State University / ISUSPLINTERS & STRENGTH {lessons from a broken body series} – Ben MillerAs followers of Jesus, we are not exempt from pain.  God may not promise its automatic removal, but he does promise to make much of it.  Dealing with the pain of this world helps us recognize the power of the cross, creates resilience, and deepens our trust in Him. (2 Cor 12:7-9, Ps 91:4, Is 41:10, Matt 5:45, 2 Cor 11:24-27, 2 Cor 4:18, James 1:2-4, 2 Cor 4:18, Job 13:15, Heb 4:15) 2021-01-2632 min