Shows
The TakeAwayJohn 6:35–37 The Fathers Work in Salvation - Part 1Send us a textWhat if the hunger that keeps you up at night isn’t about food, success, or certainty, but about a source you cannot generate? Pastor Harry Barens walks through John 6:35–37 and sits us in the crowd’s sandals—where bread means survival, thirst means danger, and the daily grind makes self-preservation feel like wisdom. Jesus’ words land with seismic force: “I am the bread of life.” He is not offering advice, a system, or steps. He is offering Himself as the end of the endless cycle to secure your own life.We trace how J...
2026-01-2031 min
The TakeAwayJohn 6:22–34 How does Grace work?Send us a textHungry for change but exhausted by striving? We open John 6:22–34 and walk with the crowd who chased Jesus for another meal while missing the meaning of the miracle. Pastor Harry Burns draws a clear line between the life we try to manage on our own and the life Jesus alone can give. The tension is real: we often want the gifts without the Giver, upgrades without surrender, resurrection without crucifixion. This conversation refuses easy answers and points us to the heart of the gospel—grace does not merely comfort; grace empowers surrender....
2026-01-1327 min
The TakeAwayJohn 4:43-54 Faith Beyond SightSend us a textWhen the cheers of Samaria fade, Galilee greets Jesus with polite admiration and cold hearts—and that tension exposes a deeper question: what sustains faith when the signs stop? We trace John 4:43–54 with Pastor Harry Behrens as a royal official rushes to Cana, not with polished theology, but with the ache of a dying child. One sentence from Jesus—“Go, your son will live”—becomes the dividing line between sight and trust, asking us to walk on a promise while the outcome remains unseen.We unpack why familiarity can numb reverence, how sign-cha...
2025-12-0420 min
The TakeAwayJohn 4:1-26 The Living WaterSend us a textA midday encounter at Jacob’s well becomes a masterclass in how God rescues hearts. We walk through John 4 with Pastor Harry Behrens to uncover a striking pattern at the core of the gospel: God commands, sin is exposed, grace is offered, and glory rises in worship. From the quiet urgency of he had to pass through Samaria to the gentle yet piercing Go call your husband, this conversation reveals a Savior who meets us where shame hides and makes a spring where we expected only another empty bucket.We start by...
2025-11-2019 min
The TakeAwayJohn 3:1–21 Born From AboveSend us a textWhat if your most sincere efforts could never open the door to God—and that’s the best news you’ll ever hear? We sit with Jesus and Nicodemus under the cover of night and watch the conversation that reframes salvation from the ground up: you must be born from above. Pastor Harry Behrens traces the thread from Ezekiel’s promise of cleansing and a new heart to the wind of the Spirit that moves freely, giving life where human resolve cannot.We follow the arc of John 3 as Jesus points to being...
2025-10-3030 min
The TakeAwayJohn 2:13–25 When Jesus Cleans HouseSend us a textThe coins scatter, the animals bolt, and all at once the temple grows quiet enough to hear what really matters. We walk through John 2:13–25 with Pastor Harry Barens to see why Jesus’ most confrontational moment is also one of His most loving—an act of cleansing that restores worship to its true center.We start with the Passover backdrop and how a system meant to serve pilgrims drifted into exploitation. Then comes the turn: Jesus claims the temple as His Father’s house and wields authority not as a reformer tweaking a progra...
2025-10-2321 min
The TakeAwayJohn 2:1–11 Water into WineSend us a textThe story of Jesus turning water into wine reveals so much more than a simple miracle. When we look deeper at the wedding at Cana, we discover a profound revelation of Christ's identity and mission that changes everything.This first sign Jesus performed wasn't merely about solving a social embarrassment at a wedding feast. It was a carefully positioned moment revealing Jesus as the inaugurator of a new creation, the fulfillment of Old Testament promises, and the divine bridegroom of His people. The timing is intentional - occurring on "the third...
2025-10-1617 min
The TakeAway“The Fingerprint of God: John’s New Creation Week”Send us a textHave you ever noticed the remarkable pattern hidden within the opening chapters of John's Gospel? Like an intricate tapestry, John weaves together days and events that mirror Genesis creation week, revealing Jesus as the divine Bridegroom of new creation.From the very first words—"In the beginning"—John invites us beyond mere history into divine revelation. As Pastor Harry meticulously unpacks each day mentioned in chapter one, a stunning pattern emerges. John the Baptist's testimony on day one echoes Genesis' first light. The revelation of Jesus as the Lamb of God on d...
2025-10-0921 min
The TakeAwayJohn 1:29–42 Revealed and Recognized Part 1Send us a textWhat are you truly seeking? This question—the first words Jesus speaks in John's gospel—cuts straight to the heart of our faith journey and forms the centerpiece of our exploration in "Revealed and Recognized."Pastor Harry Behrens guides us through John 1:29-42, where we witness two profound revelations of Jesus Christ. First comes the public declaration by John the Baptist: "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" With these words, John immediately establishes Jesus' divine mission—not merely as teacher or prophet, but as sacrif...
2025-09-2515 min
The TakeAwayJohn 1:19-28 Who are you?Send us a textThe question echoes through time: "Who are you?" When religious leaders confronted John the Baptist, his answer wasn't about credentials or achievements. "I am not the Christ," he declared with striking humility. "I am a voice."Pastor Harry takes us to the banks of the Jordan River in John 1:19-28, where this pivotal exchange reveals profound truths about identity and purpose. Through John's testimony, we discover what it means to find ourselves not in titles or accomplishments, but in our calling to prepare the way for Jesus.The world...
2025-09-1814 min
The TakeAwayJohn 1:14-18 The Glory UnveiledSend us a textThe mystery of incarnation—God wrapping Himself in human flesh—stands as Christianity's most profound paradox. When John writes that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us," he uses language deliberately echoing the ancient tabernacle, where God's presence once dwelled among Israel. But this dwelling was different. Not a sacred tent but a sacred person. Not a temporary visitation but an eternal union of divine and human.Pastor Harry takes us deep into the meaning of "glory" throughout scripture—not just splendor or radiance, but the full weight and significance of God...
2025-09-1122 min
The TakeAwayTalk Show: Who Is Jesus—and How Can I Know I’m His?Send us a textWhat does it really mean that Jesus is the Word who was with God and is God? How can we reconcile our theological understanding with persistent feelings of spiritual darkness? And perhaps most importantly, how can we know if our faith is genuine?These questions aren't just intellectual exercises—they touch the very heart of what it means to follow Christ. In this special Q&A episode, Pastor Harry Behrens is joined by Pastor Donnie Garrison and youth leader Brock Bridges to tackle the real, honest questions that believers struggle with da...
2025-09-041h 12
The TakeAwayJohn 1:6-13 The Word made knownSend us a textHow does God make Himself known in a world drowning in noise? What happens when the eternal Word—the very Creator—steps into His creation? Pastor Harry takes us deep into John 1:6-13, unpacking the profound revelation of how light entered our darkness.At the heart of this passage stands John the Baptist, divinely commissioned as the first witness to Christ. Far from generating light himself, his sole purpose was to point to it. This reflects our own calling as believers—not to shine our own light but to reflect His glory...
2025-08-2821 min
The TakeAwayJohn 1:4-5 The Light That Overcomes DarknessSend us a textEver felt like something fundamental was missing in your understanding of salvation? That nagging sense that there's more to Jesus being "the life" than we typically grasp?Pastor Harry Behrens tackles this profound mystery by diving deep into John 1:4-5, where we encounter one of Scripture's most transformative truths: "In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."This isn't merely poetic language—it's revolutionary theology that reframes our entire understanding of salvation. Dr...
2025-08-2119 min
The TakeAwayJohn 1:1-3 The Eternal WordSend us a textBeyond mangers and miracles lies a profound revelation—Jesus as the eternal Word who existed before time began. Pastor Harry Behrens launches Season 3 of The Takeaway by diving into the theological depths of John's Gospel, exploring why John takes such a dramatically different approach than Matthew, Mark, and Luke.Unlike the synoptic gospels that begin with earthly events, John takes us back to eternity itself. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." These opening verses establish foundational truths about Christ's nature th...
2025-08-1417 min
The TakeAwayEphesians 6:1-4 The Inward RelationshipSend us a textHow does honoring your parents glorify God and lead to a more joyful life? Join us on "The Takeaway" as Pastor Harry Behrens unpacks the profound insights of Ephesians 6:1-4, shedding light on the biblical mandate for children to obey their parents. You'll discover how this act not only pleases God but also fosters a fuller, more satisfying life. We unravel the crucial role fathers play as reflections of God the Father, emphasizing the need to nurture children without provoking anger, all while guiding them toward a life of obedience and prosperity. With...
2024-09-1224 min
The TakeAwayEphesians 5:1-6 Imitating Christ to Live a Godly LifeSend us a textHave you ever considered what it truly means to walk in love and unity as a Christian? On today's episode of The Takeaway, we uncover Paul's profound teachings from Ephesians 5:1-6, offering a roadmap from spiritual deadness to a vibrant life in Christ. We delve into living a godly life by imitating God and walking in love, just as Christ did. Through this journey, we explore the transformation the Spirit of God brings and how even suffering can refine and authenticate our faith—emphasizing that true transformation is only possible through Christ.
2024-08-2223 min
The TakeAwayEphesians 4:17-32 Living as Ambassadors for Christ in a Secular WorldSend us a textWhat if living as true ambassadors for Christ could transform not only your life but also the world around you? Join us on The Takeaway as we dissect Ephesians 4:17-32 and uncover profound insights into embodying Christ's teachings in a secular world. We draw lessons from Peter's faltering behavior in Galatians 2:11-14 to illustrate our human vulnerabilities and emphasize the necessity for mutual encouragement within the church community. Furthermore, we tackle the importance of steadfast faith in the face of fear and worldly temptations, distinguishing the faithful from the unbelievers. Through the lens...
2024-08-1528 min
The TakeAwayEphesians 4:8-16 Leaders are a GiftSend us a textEver wondered what gifts Jesus bestowed upon the church and their significance for believers today? Join us as we journey through Ephesians 4:8-16, uncovering how the apostles and other spiritual leaders play a pivotal role in our faith journey. With a vivid analogy of a moving boat, we highlight why active participation and openness to God's guidance are essential for spiritual growth. We'll reflect on Jesus's humility in descending to Earth and his ultimate victory over death, illustrating how his ascension led to the distribution of gifts to nurture the church....
2024-08-0818 min
The TakeAwayExperiencing God's Glory Through EvangelismSend us a textWhy should we spread the gospel if God has already decided who will be saved? We're tackling this profound question with Pastor Donnie Garrison, revealing insights that will not only deepen your understanding but also inspire you to embrace evangelism as a joyful necessity. In our discussion, we redefine evangelism beyond mere obligation, highlighting its role as a vessel for God's glory. We also introduce "Chosen by Design,” Pastor Harry’s new book, a commentary on Ephesians that provides believers with direction and confidence in their faith journey.Join us as we u...
2024-08-0128 min
The TakeAwayEphesians 4:4-7 The Purpose of Spiritual GiftsSend us a textWhat if the church wasn't just an option, but a divine gift with a profound purpose? Tune in as we unravel Ephesians 4:4-7, highlighting the church's essential role in God's plan and its mission to glorify Jesus through unity. Discover how the concepts of one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, and one baptism are foundational to fostering unity among believers. We'll also debunk common misconceptions about baptism, explaining its true role in assuring our faith and its deeper spiritual significance.In the second segment, we shift our...
2024-07-2520 min
The TakeAwayEphesians 4:1-3 Living spirit-filled livesSend us a textSignup for Weekly Newsletter:What does it mean to truly live a life worthy of your calling? Join Pastor Harry Behrens as he unpacks Ephesians 4:1-3, revealing the profound connection between Paul's imprisonment and his impassioned plea for Christians to live spirit-filled lives. Discover the divine power and promises that empower us to share the gospel with joy and enthusiasm, just as we naturally share our most joyous moments with loved ones. Reflect on how our daily walk can mirror God's call, embracing the practicalities of Christian living with authenticity and dynamism.
2024-07-1821 min
The TakeAwayEphesians 3:14-21 Praying for Spiritual Strength to Abide in ChristSend us a textSignup for Weekly Newsletter:How can understanding Paul's prayer for the Ephesians transform your spiritual journey? In this enlightening episode of the Takeaway, Pastor Harry Behrens unpacks Ephesians 3:14-21, revealing the profound importance of receiving God's promises and being fully equipped for our spiritual path. We explore how Paul's prayer for spiritual strength, Christ dwelling in our hearts, and comprehending the vast dimensions of Christ's love can serve as a cornerstone in your faith journey. By drawing parallels with Jesus' teachings in John 15:7-8, we emphasize the necessity of recognizing God's will...
2024-07-1121 min
The TakeAwayEphesians 3:1-13 What is The Mystery of the Gospel?Send us a textSignup for Weekly Newsletter Discover the profound mystery of the gospel as revealed in Ephesians 3:1-13 on today's episode of the Takeaway. What if God's plan for salvation through Jesus extends beyond individual redemption to the formation of a unified church that reflects His glory to the world? We'll explore this transformative idea and learn how God's presence within us calls for a higher standard of conduct and liberation from sin. Join us as we delve into Paul's unique perspective on his imprisonment, viewing it as a divinely appointed opportunity to advance...
2024-07-0428 min
The TakeAwayAre My Choices an Illusion? Understanding Free Will and Divine ElectionSend us a textSignup for Weekly Newsletter Are your choices truly your own, or are they divinely orchestrated? Join Pastors Harry Behrens and Donnie Garrison in this compelling episode of The Takeaway as we explore the profound question: "Are my Choices an Illusion?" By examining powerful scriptural passages like Ephesians chapters 1 and 2, Joshua 24:15, and Romans 10:9-10, we confront the apparent paradox between divine election and our ability to choose. We dig deep into the Apostle Paul's teachings on being chosen by God and our inherent inability to save ourselves due to our sinful nature. This...
2024-06-2730 min