Shows
Jericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesWords from the Cross: See Me in Paradise - Luke 23:32-33; Luke 39-43; Luke 16:19-26As we continue our series on Jesus' Words from the Cross, we will look at Jesus' promise to the thief on the cross, a promise of paradise.
2026-02-0800 min
Message From EmmanuelGod's Providence in the Christmas StoryGod's Providence in the Christmas StoryLuke 2:7“And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!Follow us on Facebook: ebcky15Follow us on Twitter: ebckyCheckout our website! http://ebcky.com Send a textFol...
2025-12-2141 min
Forward ChurchCharacters Of Christmas: Mary The Mother Of JesusHave you ever felt overlooked, like a nobody from nowhere? In Luke's account, God chooses Mary—an unknown girl from Nazareth (the ancient equivalent of Sheboygan)—for history's greatest miracle. Pastor Bogdan reveals how God's favor isn't earned through strength but received through surrender. Through Mary's honest question, "How can this be?" we discover that Christianity begins not with human capability but with acknowledging our need for divine intervention. Whether you're feeling weary or wondering how circumstances could change, this message offers hope: God specializes in bringing life where there seems to be none. Don't miss this fresh look at h...
2025-12-1437 min
Message From EmmanuelDoes God Discriminate? Part 3Does God Discriminate? Part 3Luke 4:26“But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!Follow us on Facebook: ebcky15Follow us on Twitter: ebckyCheckout our website! http://ebcky.com Send a textFollow us on Facebook: ebcky15Follow us on Tw...
2025-11-1638 minMessage From EmmanuelDoes God Discriminate? Part 2Does God Discriminate in Dealing with Men?Luke 4:27“And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!Follow us on Facebook: ebcky15Follow us on Twitter: ebckyCheckout our website! http://ebcky.comSend a textFollow us on Facebook: ebcky15Foll...
2025-11-0935 minMessage From EmmanuelDoes God Discriminate?Does God Discriminate?Luke 4:26“But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!Follow us on Facebook: ebcky15Follow us on Twitter: ebckyCheckout our website! http://ebcky.com Send a textFollow us on Facebook: ebcky15Follow us on Twitt...
2025-11-0240 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesParable of the Dishonest Manager - Luke 16:1-13Our Youth Pastor, Jimmy Reinstein, delivers a message from another parable from Luke's Gospel. We will learn how we need to sacrifice earthly rewards for eternal gains.
2025-09-0700 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesLost Sons - Luke 15:11-17This week we are starting a slow burn four week series based on the Prodigal Son in Luke 15.
Sermon Intro Video:
https://youtu.be/5xdSJaeRyy4
2025-08-1000 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesThe Kingdom: Kingdom Features - Selected ScripturesThis week we begin a short three week series titled, "The Kingdom." It will be focusing on the Kingdom as spoken about in the Gospels through Jesus. Week one will be 'Kingdom Features'.
Matthew 4:23; Matthew 16:28; Matthew 26:29; Luke 12:32; Luke 13:29; Matthew 19:14; John 3:3; Matthew 5:20; Luke 18:24-25; Luke 17:21; Matthew 4:17; Luke 1:33; Matthew 18:1, 4; Matthew 13:43; Matthew 6:33
2025-07-0600 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesMother's Day: Mary and You - Selected ScripturesWe conclude our series titled "Mothers" on Mother's Day with a message about Mary and Our Mothers. We will see amazing parallels and encouragements from the life of Mary and Jesus' mom.
Luke 1:26-38; Luke 2:4-7, 16-19, 22-24, 39, 41-42, 48-51; John 19:25; Acts 1:12-14
2025-05-1100 min
Message From EmmanuelReasons to RejoiceReasons to RejoiceLuke 10:20“Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!Follow us on Facebook: ebcky15Follow us on Twitter: ebckyCheckout our website! http://ebcky.com Send a textFollow us on Facebook: ebcky15Follo...
2025-01-2034 min
Message From EmmanuelGospel Preaching CommandedGospel Preaching CommandedLuke 14:23“And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!Follow us on Facebook: ebcky15Follow us on Twitter: ebckyCheckout our website! http://ebcky.com Send a textFollow us on Facebook: ebcky15F...
2024-11-0339 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesFall Kick Off 2024 - Selected Scriptures1 Corinthians 15:2-4; Luke 5:1-11; Hebrews 12:1; Ephesians 6:16; Acts 27:19; Mark 9:35; Philippians 3:12-14; Luke 15:10
2024-09-0100 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesDinner with Jesus: Luke 14 - Luke 14:1-24We continue our series titled "Dinner with Jesus" where we will be looking at six different times where Jesus ate with people and some powerful things happened over the dinner table. This week Jesus teaches while dining with the Pharisees once again.
2024-07-2100 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesDinner with Jesus: Luke 11 - Luke 11:37-54We continue our series titled "Dinner with Jesus" where we will be looking at six different times where Jesus ate with people and some powerful things happened over the dinner table. This week Jesus rebukes those whose righteousness is external more than internal.
2024-07-1400 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesDinner with Jesus: Luke 7 - Luke 7:36-50We continue our series titled "Dinner with Jesus" where we will be looking at six different times where Jesus ate with people and some powerful things happened over the dinner table. This week Jesus dines with the Pharisees.
2024-06-3000 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesDinner with Jesus: Luke 5 - Luke 5:27-32; Romans 3:10We begin a new series titled "Dinner with Jesus". We will be looking at six different times where Jesus ate with people and some powerful things happened over the dinner table. We begin with a banquet.
2024-06-2300 min
Message From EmmanuelMaking The Lord's Supper PersonalMaking The Lord's Supper PersonalLuke 22:19“And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and transmit via the webs...
2024-04-0119 min
Message From EmmanuelLessons For A LawyerLessons For A LawyerLuke 10:25“And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and transmit via the website noted above, any musical composition controlled by one or more of t...
2024-01-2846 min
Message From EmmanuelGood Tidings Of Great JoyGood Tidings Of Great JoyLuke 2:10“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and transmit via the website noted above, any musical composition cont...
2023-12-2443 minForward ChurchThe Signs Of Christmas: The Manger And Swaddling ClothesLuke 2 is the narrative about Christmas but Philippians 2 is “the story behind the story!” Jesus came as a humble baby in the manger but He was the Son of God incarnate! As such He was able to bear our sins on the cross and conquer death on Easter morning.Let's get ready to find hope in Jesus, by listening to this message. YOUR NEXT STEP: If you don't have a home church, then your next step of faith is to click this link and fill out the digital connect card. We would love to connect with...
2023-12-1735 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesJesus' Miracles: Death - Matthew 15:29-31; Luke 7:11-17; Luke 8: 40-42; John 11:38-44; 1 Corinthians 15:20-22, 50-58We continue our 5 week series on Jesus' Miracles. This week we see Jesus' raising the dead to life in more ways than one.
2023-12-1700 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesJesus' Miracles: Spirits Commanded - Matthew 15:29-31; Luke 4:31-37; Luke 8:26-39; Luke 11:14-20We continue our 5 week series on Jesus' Miracles. This week we look at Jesus' power over the supernatural realm.
2023-12-1000 min
Ultra Pro MaxLuke will be unfiltered until feedback improvesSend us an email to email@ultrapromax.fm and Luke will commit to reading it on the show next week!
Today we did a followup on Chat GPT, with Saadia's personal setup for a second brain
We then had a quick check-in on Luke's new laptop, which he pinkie swears he'll buy soon.
Joshua shared about an exciting new Apple hardware product he bought.
We ended with a followup on Joshua's biggest frustrations with the Apple Watch Ultra.
Here's some of the links we talked about:
https://blog.carb.is/2023/11/upgrading-gpt-with-persistent-memory-using-cloudflare-workers/
https://www.relay.fm/upgrade/488
...
2023-12-0537 min
Message From EmmanuelA Text With Two MiraclesA Text With Two MiraclesLuke 5:1-11Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and transmit via the website noted above, any musical composition controlled by one or more of the domestic Performing Rights Organizations (ASCAP, BMI and SESAC), as stated in the CCS WORSHIPcast License Terms and Conditions.Follow us...
2023-10-2237 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesJesus Objects: Salt - Luke 14:25-35; Luke 15:1-2We continue our four part series about Jesus' use of Object Lessons to teach during his life. It should be a lot of fun and beneficial for each of us as we dive into this popular tool of Jesus.
2023-10-2200 min
Message From EmmanuelWe'll Leave A Light On For Ya!We'll Leave A Light On For Ya!Luke 10:34“And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and...
2023-09-1733 min
Message From EmmanuelWhy Do Good People Go To Hell?Why Do Good People Go To Hell?Luke 18:14“I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and...
2023-09-1732 min
Message From EmmanuelAs It Was In The Days Of NoahAs It Was In The Days Of NoahLuke 17:26“And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man.”King James Version (KJV) Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and transmit via the website noted above, any m...
2023-09-1744 min
Ink to Film"Medicine for a Sick Society" ITF Watch: Trainspotting (1996 film)Danny Boyle's cult-hit adaptation of Irvine Welsh's debut novel became an immediate critical darling, and makes many lists of the best British films ever made. In episode 282, Luke & James discuss a legendary production, Ewan McGregor's commitment to understanding the drug scene, a similarity of message to Fight Club's, what the color red represents, and what sort of responsibility artists have for the art they make. They finish by casting their vote for which was better: the book or the movie! References "Choose Drugs" interview by Irvine Welsh Ink to Film Purchase Trainspotting or any...
2023-09-071h 08Ink to Film"Having Fun in This Awful Place" ITF Read: Trainspotting (1993 novel)Irvine Welsh's debut novel disturbed and fascinated the literary world in the 90s with its stark, unflinching depiction of the underground heroin-fueled punk scene of Scotland. In episode 281, Luke & James discuss the cult following phenomenon, a shifting message over time, potential pitfalls and benefits of writing in phonetic dialect, a disorienting array of stream-of-consciousness POVs, and the dark humor to be found in the bleakest of circumstances. Join them next week as they compare the novel to the film directed by Danny Boyle! References "Choose Drugs" interview by Irvine Welsh Ink to Film Purchase...
2023-09-011h 03
Message From EmmanuelThe Drawing Power Of God Part 2The Drawing Power Of God Part 2Luke 14:17“And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and transmit via the website noted above, any musical composition controlled by one...
2023-08-2735 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesLevel Up: Prayer - Selected ScripturesWe continue our new series titled "Level Up" where we will talk about taking our Christians lives to the next level. This week our message focuses on the necessity of "Prayer" in our lives.
Matthew 6:5-8; James 5:16; James 4:3; Luke 18:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; James 1:6; Romans 8:26; 1 Peter 3:12; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 John 5:14-15; Luke 11:9-13
2023-05-2800 min
Message From EmmanuelFaith, Use It Or Lose ItFaith, Use It Or Lose ItLuke 8:18“Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and transmit via...
2023-02-1239 min
Message From EmmanuelLord, Increase Our Faith Part 2Lord, Increase Our Faith Part 2Luke 17:5“And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and transmit via the website noted above, any musical composition controlled by one or more of the domestic Performing Rights Organizations (ASCAP, BMI and...
2023-02-0534 min
Message From EmmanuelLord, Increase Our FaithLord, Increase Our FaithLuke 17:5“And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and transmit via the website noted above, any musical composition controlled by one or more of the domestic Performing Rights Organizations (ASCAP, BMI and SESA...
2023-01-3041 min
Challenging Climate27. Luke Iseman on his for-profit solar geoengineering venture - Make SunsetsLuke Iseman is the founder of Make Sunsets, a recently launched startup that is selling “cooling credits” on the promise that they will release sulphur dioxide into the stratosphere using weather balloons. In this episode, we discuss Make Sunset’s mission to “substantially lower global temperatures,” the details of their offering, the technical challenges for verifying their cooling credits, and the potential political repercussions of their effortsLinks: Make Sunsets official website: https://makesunsets.com/ Make Sunsets contested cooling calculations: https://makesunsets.com/blogs/news/calculating-cooling Luke’s blog post from just before he...
2023-01-101h 00
Message From EmmanuelGod Chose The Christmas Message, Messengers And The HearersGod Chose The Christmas Message, Messengers And The HearersLuke 2:9“And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and tran...
2022-12-2529 min
Message From EmmanuelBut God Knoweth Your HeartsBut God Knoweth Your HeartsLuke 16:15“And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to p...
2022-11-2746 min
Message From EmmanuelBut God Said "Thou Fool..."But God Said "Thou Fool..."Luke 12:20“But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!GRANT OF LICENSE. Emmanuel Baptist Church is granted a non-exclusive, non-transferable license during the termof the agreement to publicly play, perform, and transmit via the website noted above, any...
2022-11-2048 minChallenging Climate23. Luke Kemp on defining, evaluating and managing catastrophic climate riskDr Luke Kemp is a Research Associate at the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk, University of Cambridge. He has a PhD in international relations from the ANU and previous experience as a senior economist at Vivid Economics. In this episode, Luke sheds light on a surprisingly understudied and overlooked topic – catastrophic climate risk. This episode explores catastrophic and extinction risk, why the topic is understudied, and how we can weigh out the catastrophic risks of climate change and solar geo-engineering. Links: Luke Kemp’s profile Check out Luke’s paper, Climate Endgame: Exploring...
2022-11-1545 minMessage From EmmanuelOne Thing, A Graphic Illustration Part 3One Thing, A Graphic Illustration Part 3Luke 10:42“But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!Send a textFollow us on Facebook: ebcky15Follow us on Twitter: ebckyCheckout our website! http://ebcky.com
2022-04-0341 min
The Lurk ReportLR07 - Alex IrvineAlex Irvine is an Asheville, NC based skater, builder, and artist who has played a huge part in the creation and expansion of the Asheville Foundation DIY spot. His meticulous craftsmanship, creativity, and work ethic are all to credit for Foundation being the unique and organic spot that it is. We spent a lot of time discussing his remarkable accomplishments as a commissioned ceramics artist, and how he has spilled his learnings and experience from his work life over into the skateboarding world. Check out www.alexirvineceramics.com for a primer on some of the wildly impressive pieces he's...
2022-01-172h 21Message From EmmanuelTo Make Ready A People Prepared For The LordTo Make Ready A People Prepared For The LordLuke 1:17 “And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”King James Version (KJV)Message From Emmanuel is a weekly audio ministry of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Irvine, KY. We sincerely hope God blesses you as you listen!Send a text...
2021-12-1941 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesNever Too Much Christmas: Angels - Luke 1:12-13; Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-38; Luke 2:8-15We continue our four week series called "Never Too Much Christmas" with a message titled Angels. The aim of this series is to really help our hearts draw near to Christ for this Christmas season.
2021-12-1200 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesNever Too Much Christmas: Prophecy - Various ScripturesWe continue our four week series called "Never Too Much Christmas" with a message titled Prophecy. The aim of this series is to really help our hearts draw near to Christ for this Christmas season.
Genesis 12:3; Luke 1:46-47, 54-55; 2 Samuel 7:12-13; Matthew 1:1; Isaiah 7:14; Luke 1:31, 34; Isaiah 9:6-7; Luke 1:31-33; Micah 5:2; Luke 2:4-7; Hosea 11:1; Matthew 2:14-15; Isaiah 53:3; Matthew 2:23
2021-12-0500 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesIn the Background: Jesus' Women - Luke 8:1-3; Matthew 27:55-56; Mark 15:46-47; Matthew 28:1-10; Luke 24:9-11Part two of our four week series titled, "In the Background" where we will be looking at some folks in the Bible who may not be that famous but were key contributors to God's Kingdom growth.
2021-08-0800 min
Jesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithJesus and Divine Justice - Hope in the Time of COVID, Part 13As those called to share in God's project of restoration, justice is at the heart of our work. But what does the Bible mean by "justice"? The term easily conjures feelings and images not shalom (peace), but punishment - that divine justice is defined by the reward of the righteous and the proper condemnation of the wicked. (This is where much of the "law and order" language we hear in connection to politics arises!) But a closer look reveals God's concern is not judgment but compassion. Above all, to be people of divine justice is...
2021-06-1649 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithHope and Vision - Hope in the Time of COVID, Part 12Essential to the life of faith is recognizing that hope is rooted in reality, in what is actually possible. The gospel has no room for fairy tales or wishful thinking, only for what can be accomplished in this time and place. And thus the work of maturity is to expand our vision for what is possible with God (short answer: healing, peace and restoration). The difference is subtle, but critical. In a world that is hurting deeply (and this sermon was preached during the rapidly growing COVID crisis, only days after the death of George...
2021-06-0442 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesJesus Exalted: Easter Sunday - Luke 24:1-12; Luke 24:19-20; Luke 24:50-52; Revelation 5:11-12; Philippians 2:5-11Passion Week 2021.
Easter Sunday celebration service.
2021-04-0424 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithLove and Revolution - Hope in the Time of COVID, Part 11APOLOGIES for being away so long. No...really. I'm sorry for the extended absence (more in the intro). But at last we continue in our look at hope in the time of COVID, and particularly how we make good use of a crisis. So far we've looked at the essential first step of faith: allowing ourselves to be loved. Now we take the beginning of step two: recognizing that Jesus's manner of love - indeed his whole way of being - is a radically new road. And it calls us to a radically new worldview.
2021-03-3149 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithCome and Be Joyful! - Advent 3 (2020)If any emotion has been in short supply this year, it's joy. And yet Advent calls us to return to this central experience of the Christian life, whatever our momentary circumstances. Today we hear from Banning Cantarini, a young and gifted preacher, who takes a look at how one of our most beloved carols of Christmas was written amidst serious suffering, and why coming to Jesus is cause for rejoicing. This is no call to deny pain or paint a happy face on hardship. Rather, it is a reminder of grace. ...
2020-12-2327 min
Blarney Pilgrims Irish Music PodcastLuke Plumb Interview - Part 1 (Mandolin, singing)The real deal. Part one of two. Incredible playing and great chat: the painters of ancient Egypt and the joy of playing in an orchestra; De Danaan, Planxty and Schubert; Martin Carthy and Nic Jones and the thrum of existential rhythm.
Truth be told, we don't have much to add to this show - it'll all in the tape. Next week: Shooglenifty and living in Scotland, the moments in a gig that a musician lives for, coming home to Australia and recording an album with Andy Irvine.
In this episode Luke plays:
Three jigs...
2020-06-241h 01Jericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesMother's Day: Leaving A Godly Legacy Like Mary - 1:26-27; Luke 30-31; Luke 1:38; Luke 2:41-46; John 7:1-2; John 10-13Mother's Day 2020
2020-05-1031 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithWhy Trust the Bible? - 8 Questions on Life, Death, God and Faith, Part 01We begin this series on deep questions with a discussion of the Bible as a source of fundamental truth? Is there any reason to believe it is more authoritative on matters of God than other religious books? Or any books at all? In this episode we look beyond the Bible's self-description as "God's word" and examine the experience of those who wrote it, and our own deep experience of life to see if there is an elemental resonance between the story scripture intends to tell and what we know of life in this age. The...
2020-01-1547 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithA Kingdom of Hope and Peace - Visions of the Messiah: Sermons for Advent, Part 01That God intends to save the world from the curse of sin has been clear from the very beginning of the biblical story. But it is through the 8th-century BC prophet Isaiah that God begins to reveal the specifics of how this salvation will unfold. What emerges is a vision of a coming messiah (anointed one) who will bring a radical transformation to history. And in this first of four sermons on Isaiah, we look at the peace God will establish - a peace so complete that humanity will choose to forever turn their swords and spears...
2019-12-0439 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithFinding God While...Waiting (Jesuit Contemplation Revisited)We all have seasons in life in which we are waiting...: Waiting on the next chapter to unfold, waiting something to make sense...waiting for God to take action! The wait can be excruciating at times, especially when we feel that God is silent. In this episode we look at what to do in those moments - namely the Jesuit practice of "contemplating" scripture, a means by which we learn to hear God's word to US. Want more on the contemplation stuff? Find it in my Loving God 101 series, parts 11 and 12. T...
2019-01-1647 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithWhat Is God Like? (Christmas Eve 2018)We all carry an picture of God - his power, nature, "personality"... Mine was, for many years, an academic one, formed with the Latin words of the long-dead philosophers we studied in school. And that image did great things for my GPA! Until, one day, that same picture rendered me useless to a scared, 6-yr-old cancer patient. As she saw it, cancer was proof of God's anger. When I said, "I don't think God is like that." She said, "Then what is God like...?" And it has taken me 20-years to find my answer. The biblical passage r...
2019-01-1128 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithNew Beginnings and the Mission of the Church (Conclusion) - Luke 59The Gospel of Luke ends with a series of new beginnings. First, Jesus's reveals his resurrection to his disciples in a manner that would have constituted certain proof in the ancient world. It is also a sign that the age of salvation has begun, and with it, a new mission for Jesus's disciples. Where once they were followers, now they are witnesses sent to every corner of the earth - a mission, it turns out, was always part of the plan of salvation! And it is a mission to which we, too, are...
2018-05-2132 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithLove Wins (The Resurrection) - Luke 58On a spring Friday, somewhere around the year AD 29, two kingdoms (Love and Evil) went to war - a battle brewing since the Garden of Eden. And Evil appeared to have won...briefly. And then it lost everything! In this episode we arrive at proof of Love's victory - an empty tomb and a resurrected Jesus! It is also the moment of Luke's grand reveal (his whole narrative has been building to this). It is a sermon about the first Easter, preached on Easter Sunday 2017. The full text for this sermon is Luke 24:1...
2018-05-1730 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithThe Crucifixion - Luke 57By every visible measure, Good Friday marked the moment love lost. In Jesus, God himself had entered into creation to free his people from their bondage to sin...and in their sin they (we!) crucified him. In this episode we examine the events leading up to and including Jesus's death - events that surely prove Jesus failed. ...And yet, amidst Jesus's suffering and persecution, we see love at work. Indeed it might just turn out that this is what creation needed all along. The full text for this sermon is Luke 22:63-23:49 (NRSV). ...
2018-05-1425 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithJudas's Betrayal, Peter's Denial and the Power of Sin in the World - Luke 56Never doubt the power of sin in the world. It led one of Jesus's closest friends to betray him. Led another to deny they'd ever met. It led Jewish authorities to demand an execution of one of their own, and caused the crowds to shout, "Crucify him!" of the one they'd cheered with "Hosanna!" less than a week before. In this episode we walk with Jesus through his final night, beholding sin in all its power. And - in Jesus - we see love that will not surrender. The text for this sermon is Luke 22:24...
2018-05-1039 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithThe Last Supper - Luke 55It is the night of Jesus's defeat (or so it would seem). He will soon be betrayed into the hands of his enemies and crucified. But there is one event left in his ministry - the celebration of the Passover (the symbol of Israel's release from her captivity and the night of her salvation). In this episode we take a deep look at the Jewish Passover traditions and what they reveal about the last Supper and the events of Jesus's last night with his disciples. Text for this sermon is Luke 22:1-13 (NRSV). ...
2018-05-0838 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithDivine Judgment Foretold - Luke 54Jesus's public ministry concludes with warnings of divine judgment upon Jerusalem. He foretells the destruction of the Temple and gives instructions to his followers as to how to survive the impending disaster. And it is with these teachings that Jesus effectively seals his fate. His prophetic declarations have raised the ire of the religious leadership - challenging their authority - and, like many prophets before him, he will be put to death. It is a story about the end of the age...2,000 yrs ago. Text for this sermon is Luke 20:21-21:28 (NRSV).
2018-04-3043 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithKeeping Your Kings Straight - Luke 53Teaching in the Temple, Jesus continues to press the question of loyalties - a direct provocation of the Jewish sect of the Sadducees (leaders of the Temple). Text for this sermon is Luke 20:20-40 (NRSV). Want to support the podcast by giving to Canvas? Here's a quick link to give online. Donations in any amount are a huge help to us and tax-deductible (in the USA) to you! Not already subscribed to the podcast? Here’s the quick link to iTunes! Want to connect? I’d love t...
2018-04-2733 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithCoup d'Etat - Luke 52Having arrived in Jerusalem, Jesus very publicly travels to the Temple and begins to teach. It is a direct confrontation of and threat to the Sadducees (the Jewish sect governing the Temple). It is effectively Jesus's last stand. Here on the mount where heaven and earth meet, Jesus will either persuade Israel to return to her first love, or he will seal his fate as a martyr. In this episode we look at Jesus's teaching in the Temple and why it is that God's people will persecute their own messiah. Text for this...
2018-04-2335 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithThe Arrival of the King (Palm Sunday) - Luke 51At last Jesus makes his entrance into Jerusalem - a scene loaded with symbolism of conquest and deliverance for Israel. Yet as we examine the story in detail, the foreshadowing of death and destruction come into view. This is a heartrending passage - one filled with hopes that will be dashed. Kleenex is highly recommended. Text for this sermon is Luke 19:29-46 (NRSV). Want to support the podcast by giving to Canvas? Here's a quick link to give online. Donations in any amount are a huge help to us and tax-deductible (in...
2018-04-1932 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithAnd This (Horrifying) Parable Means...? - Luke 50As Jesus prepares for his final journey into Jerusalem, he tells the gathered crowd a terrifying story about a nobleman and his 3 slaves. And we'll just say that things do not end well for at least one of the slaves! (Really, really not well.) Our challenge is to interpret the parable: Who is the nobleman? Who are the slaves? And what lesson are we to learn??? In this episode we explore three options and discover there are no easy answers. But part of the work of maturity is learning to live with ambiguity. T...
2018-04-1644 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithGrace on Display - Luke 49Having just called his followers to an unbounded trust in God and love of other, Jesus now puts those very actions on display - healing a man who is blind, and forgiving the notorious sinner, Zacchaeus. In this episode, regular contributor, Ian Farrell, explains - with incredible humor and historical insight! - the nuances of this moving set of stories. It is an sermon not to be missed! Text for this sermon is: Luke 18:35-19:10 (NRSV). Want to support the podcast by giving to Canvas? Here's a quick link to give on...
2018-04-1233 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithChildlike Trust in a Loving Father - Luke 48In the strange alchemy of the Kingdom of God, the first shall be last, the way to be rich is to be poor, and the height of maturity is the faith of a child. In this episode we look at Jesus's responses to parents seeking his blessing upon their children (over the disciples' objections!) and to a powerful man's question about how to enter the kingdom of God (he is told to sell everything!). It turns out they have much in common, and both have to do with coming to God in weakness and need. ...
2018-04-0941 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithSee: Prayer, Trusting in - Luke 47According to Jesus, prayer is an essential element of the life of faith, love and relationship with God. And yet for most of us - the original disciples included - prayer is both a struggle and a mystery. Often we pray and "nothing happens." So does prayer affect anything? Is there some special formula to prayer we are missing, some technique we must be taught? In this episode we examine two of Jesus's parables on prayer, and learn something about the importance of annoying God into submission. The text for this episode is...
2018-04-0534 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithWhen Will the Kingdom Come? - Luke 46The great theologian Johnny Cash once wrote: "You're so heavenly minded you're no earthly good." Only Jesus said it better. In this episode we look at the temptation to be so focused on the hereafter that we miss the presence of the kingdom of God in the here and now (and our call to embody it!). It's no minor risk - a point Jesus drives home with references to such disasters as the great flood in the days of Noah, or the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah! (Surely there's a gospel song in there somewhere...)
2018-04-0243 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithLove of Self - Luke 45What does it look like - in practice - to love self? And is such love truly godly? (Isn't love of self was the very definition of selfishness, and that love of God and others are the true virtues?) In this episode we look at Jesus's encounter with 10 lepers who take the risk to ask for mercy (always a safe bet with Jesus), and discover that love of self leads to God and ultimately to others. It's a profound look at healing and how we are transformed by compassion. The text for this episode is...
2018-03-2943 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithMillstones, Mustard Seeds and the Tension of the Christian Life - Luke 44Maturity in the life of faith requires the ability bear unresolved tension, to live amidst truths that seems to contradict each other. In this episode we examine three (more) declarations of Jesus that - at first read - appear terribly uncharitable. But as we study more closely, we discover a depth of love and grace we would never have seen had we not been forced into paradox. The text for this episode is Luke 17:1-10 (NRSV). Want to support the podcast by giving to Canvas? Here's a quick link to give online. Donations i...
2018-03-2638 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithLiving for Which Age? (Rich Man and Lazarus) - Luke 43How ought we interpret Jesus's call to decisive loyalty (and the warnings that accompany them)? Is eternal, conscious torment truly the punishment that awaits the disloyal? In this episode we examine one of Jesus's most disturbing parables, indeed one of the texts from which the church historically derived the picture of hell. And while such anguish may not be what Jesus intends to express, he is very much calling people to a decision: We must choose towards which age we direct our lives, and the choice matters. The text for this episode is...
2018-03-2246 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithChoosing Your Loves (On God and Money) - Luke 42The Bible is filled with warnings about the dangers of wealth - a danger stemming from wealth's capacity to make promises. From political power to personal security to utter self-sufficiency, wealth claims it can set us free from anxiety and fill our hearts with meaning. And it's a lie. In this episode we look at Jesus's parable of the "Dishonest Manager." What we discover is that just as our loves will shape our habits, so our habits shape our loves. We would be wise to choose our habits carefully. The text for this e...
2018-03-1940 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithThe Prodigal Son and Other Parables of Lostness - Luke 41We have all had times of wandering very far from God; sometimes as an act of rebellion, other times as capitulation to sin. Sometimes circumstances overwhelm us and we find ourselves lost on the path of life. Whatever the cause, we have all found ourselves in a "foreign land," wondering what hope remains. In this episode we look at 3 parables of lostness and the relentless passion of God to find. And when found, boundless welcome that follows. If you've ever wondered if one can stray too far from God - so as to be lost...
2018-03-1540 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithThe Risks of Discipleship - Luke 40"Love is the name of the game" rolls regularly off my tongue; but what does it look like in practice? In this episode we examine some of Jesus's seemingly extreme demands of his disciples and discover they are not a loyalty test, but rather a call to love with vitality and devotion. Such love requires risk, but it can (and will!) change the world. Included are a few examples of what we can do today to put love to work in our lives and the lives of others. The text for this episode...
2018-03-1235 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithOn Jesus and Dinner Parties - Luke 39Once again, Jesus disrupts dinner party decorum. In this case, it is to heal a man suffering terrible pain. A worthy cause, his Pharisee hosts, would agree. But this particular dinner was happening on the Sabbath, and, well...healings were "work" and should wait. Or should they? In this episode we get another look at Jesus's attempts to reveal the depth of the love of God (and the response of our love for neighbor it should provoke) and how deeply ambivalent we humans can be. The text for this episode is Luke 14:1-24...
2018-03-0841 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithNarrow Doors and Sleepless Nights - Luke 38The life of faith will have its share of sleepless nights. The question is whether we are having them for the right reasons. In this episode we look at Jesus's parable of the "narrow door" - a stern warning to those who, in their self righteousness, would never bother to question their citizenship within the Kingdom of God. But question they should, question we all should. NOT to foster undue fear, shame and/or anxiety, but so that - like an athlete in training - they might recognize the very real need to be ever on task...
2018-03-0534 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithFig Trees, Puffy Bread and Other Stories of the Kingdom - Luke 37Of one thing we can all be sure: the kingdom of God will upend expectations. Religious insiders will find themselves on the wrong end of rebuke while outsiders are welcomed as family. The lowly and humble will be raised up, while the strong discover their weakness; and the most most noble, royal work will be that of the gardener... In this episode regular guest preacher, Ian Farrell, examines a collection of short stories and parables in which Jesus reveals the stunning unpredictability of God's grace. The text for this episode is Luke 13:1-21 (NRSV).
2018-03-0130 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithExperiencing the Sublime - Luke 36"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also..." This is not simply Jesus's way of warning about the stockpiling of earthly wealth, but rather an invitation to a more direct encounter with God. In this episode our regular guest preacher, Ian Farrell, explores the realm of the "sublime" - the encounter with God that is beyond words and yet of the greatest value. The text for this episode is Luke 12:13-34 (NRSV). Not already subscribed to the podcast? Here’s the quick link to iTunes! Want to conn...
2018-02-2633 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithFull Prophet Mode - Luke 35As tension with the Pharisees intensifies, Jesus steps more fully into his prophetic role - warning of impending disaster for those who refuse to repent of their present religious and political allegiances. But to be understood, these warnings (and assurances) must be heard in their proper context. In this episode we practice interpreting such passages from a variety of perspectives to hear what Jesus is - and isn't! - saying about life on the Jesus way. The text for this episode is Luke 12:1-12 (NRSV). Not already subscribed to t...
2018-02-2238 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithBeware Loveless Piety - Luke 34Jesus accepts the dinner invitation of a prominent Pharisee - a meeting that immediately erupts in scandal, as Jesus forgoes the ritual washing expected by his host. It leads to Jesus declaring a series of "woes" - like those of the early Hebrew prophets - condemning the Pharisees for dedicating such energy to the tiniest details of ritual while managing to ignore the greatest commandment of all: to love. For those of us who've been in church a while, it is a reminder that religious action without love is no virtue. T...
2018-02-1942 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithAn Evil Generation? - Luke 33At first reading, it seems we have met a different Jesus! The preacher of grace and welcome has become a prophet of condemnation, declaring such things as: "Whoever is not with me is against me," and, "This generation is an evil generation..." How do we explain this change in tone? Why the threats of judgment? And what's so wrong with the crowds asking for a "sign" to verify Jesus's authority? In this episode we examine Jesus's battle with evil and our role in a cosmic conflict. The text for this episode is Luke 11:14...
2018-02-1535 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithJesus's How & Why of Prayer - Luke 32Does prayer make a difference in the universe? Really? Reeaally? Jesus's answer is: yes. And he offers all those who would be his followers instruction in how to pray, and, even more importantly, what the purpose of prayer is. It's a transformative lesson for any and all of us who seriously wonder prayer affects anything, and why our prayers so often seem unanswered. The text for this episode is Luke 11:1-13 (NRSV). Not already subscribed to the podcast? Here’s the quick link to iTunes! Want to connect?
2018-02-1241 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithToo Busy Being Christian - Luke 31"Love is the name of the game" is a phrase you hear frequently around here, and it's true. But when love becomes a commandment, there is a temptation to turn love into duty, in which obedience to duty takes on a life of its own. In this episode we examine the story of two sisters, Martha and Mary. Martha obeys convention to love Jesus properly. Mary flagrantly violates every social norm to love Jesus passionately. Which one do you think Jesus affirms most? And what does it teach us about the life of...
2018-01-2930 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithThe Good Samaritan & the (Non-) Limits of God's Love - Luke 30The parable of the Good Samaritan is often taught as a morality tale about the importance of compassion (with overtones implying that such acts of generosity are means by which one secures a place in the heavenly afterlife). But Jesus's intent goes far deeper! In this episode we examine central command to love and the human temptation to draw boundaries that divide the lovable from the not-so-much. And we discover that God's embrace knows no bounds. The text for this episode is Luke 10:25-37 (NRSV). Not already subscribed to the podcast? Here’s...
2018-01-1937 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithThe Nearness of the Kingdom (Return of the 70) - Luke 29The 70 disciples who were sent to bear witness to the gospel and embody the ministry of Jesus now return with an astonishing report: it worked! To their amazement, God has given them the power and resources they were promised, such that "even the demons submit to us." It is a lesson every disciple must learn time and again. And as we do, we discover that the gap between heaven and earth is far narrower than we expect! God is not afar off, nor is "heaven" at a distance. Rather, in Jesus, heaven and earth overlap, and those...
2018-01-1635 minJericho Road Church, Irvine - MessagesMerry Christmas - Selected ScripturesWhen you look at a candy cane, what does it remind you of?
Luke 2:8-20; Luke 1:30-31; Acts 4:12; Matthew 1:21; Isaiah 1:18; John 1:4-5; John 1:9; John 1:14; Matthew 2:6; John 10:11-15; Matthew 4:19; Psalm 119:103
2017-12-2414 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithGo and Bless! (Sending of the 70) - Luke 28Few words terrify the typical Christian like "evangelism." It instantly conjures images of hellfire preachers on corners or, worse yet, the awkwardly forced conversation about Jesus with a "non-believing" friend (ugh!). It's worth noting that Jesus did neither of these, nor asked it of his disciples. Jesus did, however, send. He sent ill-equipped, nervous followers to carry the good news of the presence of kingdom of God, and to bless whatever instances of grace they might find already at work. In this episode we look at this call to go and to bless; and hopefully...
2017-12-1339 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithA New Center of the World - Luke 27As Jesus "sets his face toward Jerusalem" (i.e., resolves to force a confrontation with the religious authorities), the conflict that will lead to his crucifixion begins to take shape. It starts with a rejection of Jesus as he seeks to enter Samaria (located between the regions Galilee and Judea) and continues with Jesus's rejection of some would-be followers. In this episode regular J@2AM preacher, Rev. Mike Regele examines this very complex sequence (Luke 9:51-62), and put on a master class in exegesis (the scholarly work of interpreting a passage) and why such work...
2017-11-2037 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithPeak Jesus - Luke 25 (The Transfiguration)It is tempting in the life of faith to seek "mountain top" experiences - those moments when we feel nearly at one with God and alive with passion. We get the sense in those moments that we are being truly "spiritual" (which is the goal, right?...wait, is it?). In this episode we travel to a literal mountain top with Peter, James and John where they have a direct encounter with God. And what the are told to do next will probably surprise you. The story is that of "the transfiguration." The text is Luke 9:28...
2017-11-0935 min
Jesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithThe Difficulty of Believing in a Truly Loving God - Luke, Part 18Love is hard to believe. For all our longing for love, all of our hope that love wins..., to actually trust in love when it is offered is incredibly difficult, especially when the offer comes from God. In this episode we look at Jesus's encounter with a notorious "sinner" and the lesson it offers in the breadth of God's grace, a breadth even the most learned theologians of Jesus's day could not fathom. Luke very carefully arranges this story to ensure we understand it is a lesson in the depth of love available to us...
2017-09-1930 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithBlessings and Woes (Sermon on the Plain, Part 1) - Luke 15Reminiscent of the Sermon on the Mount (in Matthew’s Gospel), in this episode we arrive at Jesus’s “Sermon on the Plain” in Luke. Once again, Jesus opens with a series of “beatitudes” (blessings), that are difficult to interpret. What are we to make of Jesus’s declaration that the poor and hungry are “blessed”?
2017-08-1725 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithHealing on the Sabbath??? (When Love Breaks the Law) - God, Self & Other – Luke 14What does it look like – in practice – to love God? In this episode we look at 3 events (Luke 6:1-16) that bring into sharp relief the distinction between Jesus and his religious opponents (in this case, the often maligned Pharisees), particularly with regard to what it means to love God. Is love ultimately […]
2017-07-2836 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithLove Beyond Every Boundary (Healing a Man with Leprosy) - God, Self & Other – Luke 11If you’ve ever wondered how far the grace of God extends, the short answer is: beyond every imaginable barrier and boundary. In this episode we look at Luke 5:12-16 – a short, but dramatic, encounter between Jesus and a man afflicted with leprosy. In the ancient world, few conditions were more feared or carried greater […]
2017-06-1539 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithJesus 1, Captivity 0 (Miracles in Capernaum) - God, Self & Other, Luke 09Here we get a first, detailed look into Jesus’s ministry of healing and exorcism. (Luke has mentioned such activity in the past, but finally we get are given a description of an actual event.) In this episode, regular contributor Rev. Ian Farrell demonstrates that there is much more to Jesus’s “healings” than mere demonstrations of divine power. […]
2017-05-0532 minJesus at 2AM - A Humorous, Intelligent Look at the Bible, Church History & the Life of FaithIn the Days When God Seemed Far, Far Away… - God, Self & Other – Luke 03Luke opens on a darkened scene. Herod, a despotic ruler installed by Rome, sits on David’s throne in Jerusalem – a powerful symbol that Israel is far from where she expected to be. The first character we meet is Zechariah – an aged priest of a childless wife – coming to due his religious duty in the […]
2017-02-2739 min