Shows
Pondering the BibleThe Essence of Being God's Chosen. Romans 3:1–8Send a textKen Corkins and pastor Rocky Ellison continue their Romans study switching from the NLT to the Revised Standard Version for its academic clarity. Covering Romans 3:1–8, they connect Paul’s argument from chapter 2 about who is truly a Jew—those who do God’s will—and ask what advantage being Jewish has. Paul’s main answer is that Jews were entrusted with the “oracles of God,” meaning God’s written words (debated as the whole Old Testament versus the Ten Commandments), and the hosts note “entrusted” implies responsibility to share it. They discuss how God’s fairness implies judgm...
2026-03-0822 minPondering the BibleThe True Essence of Being a Jew Romans 2:17-29Send a textKen Corkins and pastor Rocky Ellison resume Season 18, noting upcoming travel breaks, and finish Romans chapter 2 by reading verses 17–29 from the Revised Standard Version to capture Paul’s deliberate word choices. They discuss Paul’s harsh critique of Jewish Christians who rely on the law and circumcision as marks of superiority while failing their responsibility to teach Gentiles, citing Isaiah 42 and 52 to show Israel was meant to be a light to the nations and that God’s name is blasphemed when they fail. They explain Paul’s diatribe against hypocrisy and his argument that outward cir...
2026-03-0126 minPondering the BibleUnity in Christ: No Favorites in Divine Judgment. Romans 2:1-16Send a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison delve into the second chapter of Romans, focusing on verses 1 through 16. They discuss how Paul addresses both Jewish and Gentile Christians, emphasizing that God's judgment is impartial and based on one's behavior rather than lineage or knowledge of the law. They also clarify the difference between judgment of behavior and judgment for salvation, highlighting key scriptural passages. The episode concludes by stressing the importance of unity in the church and the need to love and support all members of...
2026-02-1529 minPondering the BibleThe Consequences of Rejecting God. Romans 1:18-32Send a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison delve into Romans 1:18-32, discussing God's anger and the consequences He allows for those who reject Him. They explore different translations, the concept of God's wrath versus His justice, and the natural revelation of God in creation. They also address the consequences of idolatry, immorality, and various sins listed by Paul, emphasizing God's active choice to let people face the repercussions of their actions when they turn away from Him.NEW!: Rate us at...
2026-02-0930 minPondering the BiblePaul's Call to Rome: Sharing and Receiving Gifts. Rom. 1:8-17Send a textHosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison delve into Romans 1:8-17, discussing various themes and interpretations of faith. They reflect on the importance of spiritual gifts, Paul's desire to visit the Roman Christians, and the need for unity and orthodoxy in the church. The conversation also covers different theological views on how faith is obtained and the significance of the Old Testament. Rocky emphasizes the critical nature of understanding and using one's spiritual gift for mature Christian living.NEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find us at www.pondergmc.org. ...
2026-02-0130 minPondering the BibleEmbarking on Romans: A New Journey BeginsSend a textIn the Season 18 premiere of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison return from an extended break. Rocky reflects on his retirement and personal loss before introducing the new direction of the podcast. Without the constraints of weekly sermon preparations, they embark on an extensive verse-by-verse analysis of the Book of Romans. This episode focuses on the overview of Romans, addressing Paul's authorship, the historical context, and the key themes of Christian unity, theological conflicts, and the relationship between Jews and Gentiles in the early Christian church. Rocky expresses his eagerness...
2026-01-1824 minPondering the BibleFull Circle: A Return to Nazareth Matthew 2:19-23Send a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison dissect Matthew 2:19-23. They discuss the historical context of Herod's death and his chaotic reign, including his brutal acts against his family. The episode elaborates on Joseph's return to Israel with Mary and Jesus after Herod's demise, navigating fears of new ruler Archelaus, and eventually settling in Nazareth to fulfill a debated prophecy. The discussion also touches on the potential early awareness of Jesus about his divine mission and the significance behind the term 'Nazarene.'
2025-12-2136 minPondering the BibleProphecies and Dreams in BethlehemSend a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison explore Matthew 2:13-18, discussing the flight of Jesus' family to Egypt and Herod's brutal massacre of Bethlehem's infant boys. The discussion highlights the significance of God's intervention through dreams, the providence shown in the Magi's gifts, and the typology comparing Moses and Jesus. The hosts delve into prophetic links with Jeremiah and Hosea, emphasizing God's plans unfolding behind the scenes, even amid human evil. They also underscore how these events align with historical instances of child suffering and displacement.
2025-12-1440 minPondering the BibleAncient Prophecies and Modern MisconceptionsSend a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison delve into Matthew Chapter 2, focusing on the wise men's visit to Jesus. They discuss the timing of Jesus' birth, the historical inaccuracies of the December 25th date, the significance of Bethlehem, and the wise men's journey from the East guided by a divine star. The hosts also explore Herod's reaction to the news of a newborn king, his deceitful plot, and the practical and symbolic meanings behind the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Additionally, they address common misconceptions about...
2025-12-0747 minPondering the BibleAn Advent RevelationSend a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison discuss the meaning of Advent, focusing on the birth narrative of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Matthew. They explore the cultural context of marriage during Jesus's time, the prophecy from Isaiah 7:14 concerning the virgin birth, and the significance of the name 'Jesus.' The conversation highlights Joseph's decision to trust the angel's message in a dream and his role in ensuring Jesus's legitimacy as the son of God. The episode emphasizes the theological points underpinning the Advent season.
2025-11-3041 minPondering the BibleFrom Lament to Thanksgiving: Psalm 28 ExploredSend a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison discuss Psalm 28 in the context of Thanksgiving. They examine how King David's lament about his tumultuous life transitions into a prayer of gratitude, reflecting his reassurance of salvation. They delve into the various categories of Psalms, the context of David's life, and the deep emotional and theological nuances of the psalm. The episode concludes with a preview of next week's focus on the Gospel of Matthew for the start of Advent.The sermon f...
2025-11-2339 minPondering the BibleS17 Ep. 05 Final Thoughts on Jude: Guidance and Hope"Send a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison conclude their study of the Book of Jude, focusing on verses 17-25 from the New Living Translation. They discuss Jude's emphasis on the warnings and predictions of the apostles, the presence of scoffers in the last times, and the need for Christians to build each other up in faith, pray in the Holy Spirit, and await eternal life. Jude also advises showing mercy and caution to those wavering in faith while hating the sin contaminating their lives. The episode...
2025-11-1622 minPondering the BibleS17 Ep. 04 Orthodoxy vs. Antinomianism: A Deep DiveSend a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison explore Jude verses 8-16 from the New Living Translation. They discuss how false teachings, particularly those of the antinomians advocating for licentious behavior, are criticized and warned against by Jude. Drawing parallels from biblical figures like Cain, Balaam, and Korah, the discussion highlights the dire consequences of defying God's commands. The episode also touches on Jude's use of common literature of the time, such as the 'Assumption of Moses' and the book of 'Enoch,' to make his points more...
2025-11-0932 minPondering the BibleS17 Ep. 03 The Consequences of DisobedienceSend a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison dive deeper into the Book of Jude, specifically covering verses 3 through 7. They discuss Jude's urgent shift from writing about salvation to addressing the issue of antinomianism—wrongly believing that grace allows for immoral living. Key examples include Israel's disobedience in the wilderness, fallen angels, and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, emphasizing the consequences of straying from God's teaching. The nuanced discussion also highlights the importance of maintaining orthodoxy within Christian belief and practice.The Sermon fo...
2025-11-0234 minPondering the BibleS17 Ep. 02 Understanding Jude: A Study of Authorship and AntinomianismSend a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible', co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison introduce the epistle of Jude. They cover the authorship controversy, specifically addressing who Jude is and the historical context of the letter, including its association with the brother of Jesus, James. They also delve into the dating of the letter, its purpose, and the heretical teachings it aimed to counteract, particularly the issue of antinomianism. The episode concludes with a mention of upcoming sermons and the challenges of organizing the podcast amid interviewing new pastors.The sermon for...
2025-10-2649 minPondering the BibleS17 Ep. 01: Katie Bristow on PrayerSend a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible', co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison welcome guest speaker Katie Bristow for Laity Sunday. Katie introduces the week's sermon, which focuses on prayer and is based on Psalm 17:1. She aims to clear up common misconceptions about prayer, emphasizing that prayer is a personal conversation with God without strict rules or postures. Throughout the episode, they explore the various forms and cultural norms of prayer, discuss biblical examples, and reflect on Katie's preparation and evolving approach to the sermon. Additionally, upcoming changes in the podcast due to Rocky's...
2025-10-1937 minPondering the BibleS16 Ep 07: 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18Send a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison discuss the final verses of Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 3:16-18). The episode delves into the importance of Paul's unique closing, his invocation of peace, and the deeper theological implications of his words. They explore the types of grace according to Methodist beliefs and the significance of Paul signing the letter himself due to historical context. The hosts also reflect on the broader themes covered in the season, including persecution, eschatology, endurance, and ethics, providing a comprehensive...
2025-10-1246 minPondering the BibleS16 Ep. 06: 2 Thessalonians 3:6–15Send a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison delve into 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15. They explore Paul's strong commands for believers to avoid idle lives, emphasizing the importance of work. The discussion highlights Paul's uncommon authoritative tone, his stance on excommunication, and the difference between his actions and beliefs regarding ministry work. They conclude with Paul's ultimate goal of restoring fallen believers through repentance and welcome. The episode wraps up with details on where to find Rocky’s accompanying sermon and a preview of future discussions.NEW!: Ra...
2025-10-0538 minPondering the BibleS16 Ep. 05: 2 Thessalonians 3:1–5Send a textIn this episode of Pondering the Bible, co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison discuss 2 Thessalonians, Chapter 3, Verses 1-5. The focus is on Paul's request for prayers to spread the Lord's message and to be protected from wicked and evil people. They emphasize that suffering is a part of life for Christians, but faith in Christ provides the strength to endure it. Paul's message encourages believers to focus on evangelism and perseverance, drawing parallels to his own hardships and the enduring faith needed to get through difficult times. The discussion underscores the importance of...
2025-09-2840 minPondering the BibleS16 Ep. 04: 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17Send a textIn this episode of Pondering the Bible, co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison delve into the second chapter of Second Thessalonians, focusing on verses 13-17. They explore the controversial nature of these verses by discussing different theological interpretations from Roman Catholicism, Calvinism, and Wesleyan-Arminianism. Through an in-depth analysis, they explain how these different perspectives influence the translation and understanding of the verses, particularly regarding the topics of salvation, free will, and predestination. The episode also touches on systematic theology and concludes with a conversation about the implications and significance of adhering to historical church...
2025-09-2149 minPondering the BibleS16 Ep.03: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12Send a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible', co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison discuss the first half of Chapter 2 from the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians. They cover verses 1-12, aiming to clarify details about the second coming of Christ. Rocky explains Paul's rare approach of providing specific signs and markers indicating the end times. The conversation includes the appearance of the antichrist, the rebellion against God, the deceptions faced by non-believers, and the ultimate return of Jesus to defeat the antichrist. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of staying true to...
2025-09-1444 minPondering the BibleS15 Ep 02: 2 Thessalonians 1:3-12Send a textIn this milestone 200th episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison delve into 2 Thessalonians, Chapter 1, verses 3-12. They discuss the context of Paul's letter to the Thessalonian church, addressing their suffering and encouraging steadfast faith amidst persecution. The hosts highlight the significance of enduring trials, the promise of divine justice, and the anticipation of Christ's triumphant return. They emphasize Paul's method of offering encouragement before addressing deeper challenges and explore the concept of 'Hoopa Monet,' a term that signifies active endurance and growing strength despite adversity. The episode...
2025-09-0743 minPondering the BibleS15 Ep. 09 Malachi 4:1-6Send a textThis week co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison celebrate their four-year anniversary of podcasting. They review intriguing statistics about their podcast's reach and popularity. The episode then delves into Malachi Chapter 4 from the Bible, discussing the notions of judgment, the 'Day of the Lord,' and the contrasting fires of judgment and righteousness. They also explore theological debates surrounding interpretations of Hell and the Law of Moses. The discussion concludes with reflections on the importance of witnessing within one's family and a hint at their next series on 2 Thessalonians.T...
2025-08-2447 minPondering the BibleS15 Ep. 07 Malachi 3:6-12Send a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison discuss Malachi 3:6-12, focusing on God's unchanging nature and the covenant with the descendants of Jacob. The episode highlights the importance of tithes and offerings, explaining how neglecting these duties leads to a strained relationship with God. Rocky elaborates on the historical context of locust plagues affecting the people's willingness to tithe. They emphasize God’s challenge to the people to trust Him and His promise to bless them abundantly if they fulfill their covenant obligations. The discussion reflects on ho...
2025-08-1040 minPondering the BibleS15 Ep. 05 Malachi 2:10–17Send a textThe week, co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison discuss Malachi Chapter 2, verses 10-17, focusing on the themes of divorce and covenant. They explore God's anger towards the unfaithfulness of the men of Jerusalem, who have divorced their Jewish wives to marry pagan women, thus breaking their covenant with God. The discussion highlights the historical context of Persian influence, the moral implications of divorce, and God's provision for justified divorce. The episode emphasizes the consistency in God's expectations of faithfulness whether in marriage or in worship.The sermon for...
2025-07-2745 minPondering the BibleS15 Ep. 03 Ken Corkins Luke 10:25-37Send a textThis week, Rocky was out of town, so we were unable to record an episode. Ken was the Lay Speaker this week. Ken chose the story of the Good Samaritan for his message.The sermon for this episode it titled "What Must We Do?" and can be found at pondergmc.org/ministries/sermonsNEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find us at www.pondergmc.org. Feedback is welcome: PonderMethodist@gmail.com Music performed by the Ponder GMC worship team. Cover...
2025-07-1310 minPondering the BibleS15 Ep. 02 Malachi 1:6-14Send a textIn this latest episode of "Pondering the Bible," Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison delve into chapter one of Malachi, focusing on verses 6-14. The discussion explores God's displeasure with the priests and people of Israel, who have been offering defiled and substandard sacrifices. The episode highlights the significance of offering pure and honorable sacrifices to God and touches on how this Old Testament lesson translates to contemporary Christian practice, particularly in terms of bringing one's best to worship and the Lord's table. Rocky Ellison also shares insights on the role of clergy in...
2025-07-0639 minPondering the BibleS15 Ep. 01 Malachi 1:1-5Send a textIn this episode of "Pondering the Bible," co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison kick off Season 15 by discussing the Book of Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament. They explore the historical and cultural context surrounding Malachi, debating whether Malachi was a prophet, an angel, or a pseudonym for a priest. The episode features a reading from the first five verses of Malachi Chapter 1, where God reaffirms His love for Israel despite their skepticism. Rocky provides an in-depth history lesson tracing Israel's journey from Moses to the Persian Period, emphasizing the significance of...
2025-06-2935 minPondering the BibleS13 Ep. 18 Luke 8:4-15Send a textIn this episode of "Pondering the Bible," co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison delve into the Parable of the Sower from Luke 8:4-15. Despite battling a cold, Pastor Rocky enthusiastically discusses different types of soil and their symbolism, explaining how our decisions and circumstances influence our receptivity to God's word. Together, they reflect on the repeated encounters with this parable across various Gospels, emphasizing its evolving impact on their lives and faith journeys. They explore the importance of context in understanding biblical meanings and highlight the transformative nature of the Bible's teachings over...
2025-03-3043 minPondering the BibleS13 Ep.17 Luke 8:1-3Send a textIn this episode of "Pondering the Bible," co-host Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison return from a break and dive back into their exploration of the Gospel of Luke, specifically Chapter 8, verses 1-3. The discussion highlights the significance of these verses, emphasizing the radical and controversial nature of Jesus' ministry, including His breaking of social norms by traveling with and accepting financial support from women. The episode also contrasts the different portrayals of women in Luke's Gospel compared to the other Gospels, underlining Luke's positive depiction of women's roles and contributions in Jesus' ministry.
2025-03-2334 minPondering the BibleS13 Ep.16 Alan TaliaferroSend a textIn this episode of "Pondering the Bible," co-host Ken Corkins welcomes guest Alan Taliaferro, filling in for regular host Rocky who is on vacation. The duo discusses the theme of patience, inspired by Alan's upcoming sermon based on Luke 13:1-9. They explore the significance of patience in faith and everyday life, and how impatience can lead to frustration and anger. Alan elaborates on how lack of patience can adversely affect relationships and spiritual well-being. The sermon for this episode it titled "Wait For It...Wait For It" and can b...
2025-03-1639 minPondering the BibleS12 Ep 02 1 John 5-10Send a textIn this episode of "Pondering the Bible," co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison delve into 1 John 1:5-10, focusing on the key themes of truth and fellowship in Christianity. The conversation highlights John's emphasis on living out one's faith, the heresy of Docetism, and the necessity of acknowledging and confessing sin. They stress that true Christians must act on their faith, love their neighbors, and admit their sins, aligning themselves with God's moral and ethical standards. The episode concludes with a reflection on the value of continuously striving to emulate Jesus, despite daily struggles...
2024-09-0821 minPondering the BibleS 11 Ep. 17 - Katie BristowSend a textIn this episode co-host Ken Corkins welcomes guest Katie Bristow, who is filling in for Rocky while he is away celebrating his 45th wedding anniversary. The discussion covers various topics, including the challenges and rewards of adulthood, and a reading from Genesis 37:12-36 focusing on the story of Joseph. Katie shares her approach to her upcoming sermon, which emphasizes the importance of recognizing modern-day miracles and God's presence in our lives. The Sermon for this episode is titled "Are you seeing this?" and can be found at pondergmc.org/ministries/sermons
2024-08-2518 minPondering the BibleS11 Ep. 11 1 Timothy 4:1-5Send a textIn this episode of "Pondering the Bible," co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison return after a brief hiatus, reflecting on their recent experiences at Vacation Bible School. The discussion transitions to a deep dive into 1 Timothy Chapter 4, verses 1-5. Ken and Rocky explore themes of end-times prophecy, apostasy, and confronting heresy as depicted in Paul's letter. They also discuss the Gnostic heresies of the time, the importance of orthodoxy, and how Christians should interpret and adhere to true teachings. The episode is rich in theological insights, focusing particularly on the interpretation of scripture...
2024-06-2319 minPondering the BibleS11 Ep. 02 - Ken CorkinsSend a textThis week, Rocky is out of town, and Ken is the Lay Speaker.Starting with Matthew 22:15–22, Ken talks paying taxes to Caesar, transitioning into the importance of following God's commandments, with a focus on turning away from sin, believing in Jesus, and loving God and others.The Sermon for this episode is titled "Render", and can be found at pondergmc.org/ministries/sermonsNEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find us at www.pondergmc.org. Feedback is welcome: PonderMethodist@gmail.com ...
2024-04-1419 minPondering the BibleS10 Ep. 05 John 1:29-34Send a textThis week, hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison, discuss the Gospel of John chapter 1 verses 29 through 34. We explore various aspects, such as the significance of Jesus being called the Lamb of God, John the Baptist's testimony about Jesus, and the baptism of Jesus. The Sermon for this episode is called "I Remember" and can be found at pondergmc.org/ministries/sermonsNEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find us at www.pondergmc.org. Feedback is welcome: PonderMethodist@gmail.com Music performed by the Ponder...
2024-01-0721 minPondering the BibleS6 Ep. 16 "Money Talk with Jesus" Ken CorkinsSend a textThis week, Ken is in the pulpit as Lay Speaker. He covers the money Parables of Jesus.The Sermon for this episode is called "Money Talk with Jesus" and can be found at;pondergmc.org/ministries/sermonsNEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find us at www.pondergmc.org. Feedback is welcome: PonderMethodist@gmail.com Music performed by the Ponder GMC worship team. Cover Art: Joe Wagner Recorded, edited and mixed by Snikrock
2023-04-1632 minPondering the BibleS3 Ep. 8: Special Guest- Ken Corkins?Send a textRocky is traveling with family this week. As usual, Rocky has a Lay Speaker scheduled to deliver a message on Sunday while he's away. Oddly enough, our Lay Speaker this week is none other than our own co-host; Ken Corkins!Ken will be delivering a message about Prophets and Prophecy.The sermon for this episode is called "Prophets and Prophecy" and can be found at: https://ponderumc.org/ministries/sermons. This sermon was delivered on Aug. 7, 2022.NEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find u...
2022-08-0724 minPondering the BibleS1 Ep. 3: 1 Peter 1:13-25Send a textIn this week's episode, we finish chapter 1 of 1 Peter, covering verses 13-25.Co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rev. Rocky Ellison discuss how Peter's letter calls Christians to "be holy, as God is holy. New church word: Theosis, which means to become more like God (not God-like)Peter discusses judgement and how the blood of Jesus is the price paid for our forgiveness. "Penal Substitution Atonement" is the fancy way of saying Jesus died for our sins.. Peter tells the Christians to not fear judgment because Jesus has paid the ransom required...
2021-09-1232 min
Pondering the BibleIntroduction and OverviewSend a textA brief introduction to Pondering the Bible. In this trailer, we describe how we plan to study the bible. Differences from other types and styles of Bible Study.Meet the co-hosts, Ken Corkins and Rev. Rocky Ellison. Find us at www.ponderumc.org.Feedback is welcome: PonderMethodist@gmail.comMusic performed by the Ponder UMC worship teamCover Art: Joe WagnerRecorded, edited and mixed by SnikrockNEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find us at www.pondergmc.org. F...
2021-08-2418 min