Shows
The Not Old - Better ShowRevolution, Rebellion, and the Fight for Freedom: Andrew Lawler on the Untold Story of 1776Revolution, Rebellion, and the Fight for Freedom: Andrew Lawler on the Untold Story of 1776 The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series Welcome to the Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates 6oth anniversary Interview Series, where history comes alive and challenges everything we thought we knew. I’m Paul Vogelzang, and today we have a truly electrifying conversation for you. We all know the story of the American Revolution—patriots fighting for freedom against the might of the British Crown. But what if I told you that one of the most pivotal mome...2025-03-1028 min
Christ Church MemphisWitnessing Boldly | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textIn this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler dives into Acts 4:1-12 to explore the call to witness boldly for Jesus. Despite misunderstanding and opposition, we see a powerful response of the early church to the Gospel. From Peter’s fearless declaration of Jesus as the only Savior to the growing challenge of evangelism today, we reflect on what it means to be a witness in a world that increasingly resists the message of Christ. Drawing from the Great Commission and John Wesley's passion for intentional evangelism, Pastor Paul challenges us to consider how we ca...2025-02-1041 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Gift of Passionate Worship | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textWhy does worship matter so much to the life of a believer and the Church? In this message, Paul Lawler dives into 2 Chronicles 20:15-23 to explore the transformative power of worship. Drawing on the story of King Jehoshaphat and Judah’s victory through praise, Paul uncovers the deeper meaning of worship as a spiritual weapon, not just a ritual.Listen in as we discover that worship isn’t just about singing; it’s about magnifying Jesus Christ, aligning our hearts with God’s will, and experien...2025-01-2037 min
Christ Church MemphisA Gospel Centered Community | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textHow do we truly define a gospel-centered community? Is it simply a group of people who meet on Sundays, or is it something far deeper? In this message, Pastor Paul Lawler takes us through Ephesians 2:1-9 to unpack the Gospel's true power and depth that shapes our community's very foundation.If you’ve ever wondered how to build a community that radiates God’s love, or if you’ve ever struggled with understanding how God’s grace works in your life, this message will challenge and inspire you. Paul delves in...2025-01-1333 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Power of the Holy Spirit in the Life of the Church | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textWhat would happen if you stopped trying to "make things happen" on your own and tapped into the divine power available to you? In this message, Paul Lawler explores the Holy Spirit's impact on the individual believer and the church as a whole.Why did Jesus say that the Father would give the Holy Spirit to those who ask? Could it be that many of us are missing out on God's power simply because we aren't asking enough? What does it really mean to be "filled with the Spirit," a...2025-01-0633 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Birth of Jesus | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textWhat would you do if you had the greatest news to share? Would you tell your closest friends or shout it from the rooftops? When God shared the greatest news in history, He didn’t go to the rich, the powerful, or the elite—He went to the shepherds.In this message, Rev. Paul Lawler explores the powerful and surprising announcement of Jesus' birth to the outcasts of society. The shepherds, seen as unworthy by the world, are the first to hear of the Savior's arrival. Through their story, we see how...2024-12-2332 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Worth of Worship | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textWho or what holds the first place in our hearts?Through reflection on the story of Ai, Rev. Paul Lawler examines the significance of the firstborn, firstfruits, and the tithe in Scripture, highlighting how these principles teach us about the redemptive nature of giving. He reminds us that offering our first to God is not merely an obligation but a powerful worship act acknowledging His sovereignty and provision. When we answer that question, we realize our financial stewardship reflects our priorities and affections. Pastor Paul challenges us to trust God with...2024-11-0436 min
Beliefs Matter PodcastChurch Planting and the Global Methodist Church's Beginnings with Paul LawlerThanks for joining us for the Beliefs Matter Podcast! In this episode, Rev. Dr. Maxie Dunnam pulls up a chair with Rev. Paul Lawler to talk about the Global Methodist Church and church multiplication. Paul Lawler is a husband, father, teacher, pastor, and church planter. He began serving as the Senior Pastor of Christ Church Memphis in July of 2022. He is a graduate of Asbury University, and Asbury Theological Seminary. He has led local churches to engage in planting hundreds of new churches on four different continents. Paul and his brother, Dallas businessman, Patrick Lawler, worked with the C...2024-10-0344 min
Christ Church MemphisFollowing Christ Beyond Comfort: God’s Unchanging Call to Mission | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: Called to Surrender: Embracing God's Mission to All PeopleScripture: Isaiah 6:1-10Series: Christ Church Memphis Mission Statement Series Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerMore than two billion people have never heard the Gospel. In this sermon, Pastor Paul challenged us with a powerful message from Isaiah 6 about God's heart for all nations. He reminded us that as followers of Christ, we're called to participate in God's global mission because the Great Commission wasn't a suggestion—it's our responsibility. We can all play a part through praying, sending, or...2024-09-1645 min
Christ Church MemphisWhat is a Disciple of Jesus Christ? | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: What is a Disciple of Jesus Christ? Series: Christ Church Memphis Mission Statement Series Scripture: Luke 9:23-37 Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerWe all can likely draw a Sunday school answer to what it means to be a disciple of Jesus, but what does Scripture say? In this sermon, Pastor Paul explores what it means to follow Jesus beyond a superficial understanding. He challenges us to move past a merely intellectual grasp of discipleship and embrace its full, transformative potential. Using Scripture, Paul redefines what it trul...2024-09-0242 min
Christ Church MemphisThe In-Exhaustive Radiance of the Glory of God | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The In-Exhaustive Radiance of the Glory of GodSeries: Christ Church Mission Statement SeriesScripture: Hebrews 1:1-9Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerIn this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler explores the profound concept of God's glory and its significance in our lives. Using Hebrews 1:3 as a foundation, he reminds us that Jesus is 'the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being.' We're encouraged to contemplate the vastness of creation, from the intricate design of a grasshopper's eye to the immensity of galaxies, all reflecting...2024-08-1236 min
Christ Church MemphisA New Dimension of the Power of Love | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: A New Dimension of the Power of Love Scripture: Galatians 6:1-10Series: Galatians Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerIn the final chapter of Galatians, the Apostle Paul reveals that a truly spiritual church is defined not just by signs and wonders but by how believers live out their faith within a biblical community. The passage emphasizes the responsibility of Spirit-filled believers to support and restore one another in a spirit of gentleness, bearing each other’s burdens and fulfilling the la...2024-08-0531 min
The Home FrontOlympic opening ceremonies were blasphemy, and what to do about that, on the Home Front; Remembering Fr. Paul Mankowski with Karen HallShow notes:How NOT to respond to the blasphemy in Paris — Phil Lawler, Catholic CultureLights remain on at the Sacre-Coeur Basilica during city-wide blackoutChariots of Fire The Moral Life of the Child: The Ten Commandments — Leila Marie Lawler, Like Mother, Like DaughterKaren Hall, The Sound of Silence: The Life and Cancelling of a Heroic Jesuit Priest (affiliate link)Leila Marie Lawler: The Summa Domestica: Order and Wonder in Family Life Get full access to Happy Despite Them at l...2024-08-0244 min
Christ Church MemphisBeholding a Heart for God, Heart for People | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: Beholding a Heart for God, Heart for People Scripture: Galatians 4:1-20Series: GalatiansTeacher: Rev. Paul LawlerIn this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler illuminates how easily we can slip back into measuring our worth by our achievements rather than resting in our identity as adopted children of God. Through Christ, we not only receive forgiveness but also inherit all the privileges of sonship—access to the Father's wealth and a direct relationship marked by heartfelt cries of "Abba, Father!"HOME | PLAN YOUR VISIT | BLOG | DIGITAL BU...2024-07-0832 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Law and Life in the Gospel | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Law and Life in the Gospel Scripture: Galatians 3:15-29Series: GalatiansTeacher: Rev. Paul LawlerIn this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler explores the profound connection between the Law and Life in the Gospel. Drawing from Galatians 3:15-29, Rev. Paul unpacks why the law was given and its role in our understanding of salvation through faith in Christ alone. Discover how the law points to God's ultimate promise and how it reveals our need for grace rather than self-righteousness. Don't miss this insightful exploration of the Gospel's t...2024-07-0138 min
Christ Church MemphisBeing Set Free from Spiritual Dullness | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: Being Set Free from Spiritual Dullness! (Pt. 5)Series: GalatiansScripture: Galatians 3:1-14Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerThe Gospel not only saves us, but in this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler explains how it also transforms us and frees us from spiritual complacency. We're encouraged to repent of spiritual dullness, rediscover the power of the Holy Spirit, and remember the implications of our heritage in Christ. This message reminds us that true freedom and blessing come through faith in Christ, not through legalism. Only through the Gospel can we...2024-06-2434 min
Christ Church MemphisA Clear and Compelling Gospel | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: A Clear and Compelling GospelScripture: Galatians 2:11-21Series: GalatiansTeacher: Rev. Paul LawlerGalatians 2:11-21 captures a pivotal moment in biblical history: the confrontation between two esteemed apostles, Paul and Peter. Pastor Paul Lawler explores the implications of Peter's actions and the necessity of upholding the truth of the Gospel.Peter's lapse into fear-driven behavior serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of prioritizing human approval over God's truth. As the Apostle Paul confronts Peter's hypocrisy, listeners are challenged to examine their own...2024-06-1733 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Unity of the Gospel | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Unity of the GospelScripture: Galatians 2:1-10Series: Galatians Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerIn this sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler uncovers the struggle faced by the early Church and its relevance in today's world. He unravels the dilemma confronting the churches of Galatia – the notion of needing Jesus plus something else for justification. This creates dangerous implications for such beliefs, which threaten to distort the very essence of the Gospel.Drawing parallels to contemporary challenges, Lawler exposes the allure of legalism and the pervasive misconception tha...2024-06-1038 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Gospel of Grace | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Gospel of Grace (Galatians pt. 2)Series: GalatiansScripture: Galatians 1:11-24Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerWhat does a life lived under God’s Gospel of Grace look like? God's grace extends even to the most unlikely of individuals. From the Apostle Paul's history as a persecutor of Christians to his radical conversion, we witness the profound impact of God's love and redemption in his life. Grace isn't merely an unmerited favor but a divine empowerment that enables us to live lives of righteousness and holiness. Wit...2024-06-0329 min
Christ Church MemphisAm I Grounded Enough? | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: Am I Grounded Enough? (Galatians pt. 1)Scripture: Galatians 1:1-9Series: GalatiansTeacher: Rev. Paul LawlerThe specific problem addressed in this passage is the insidious influence of false teachers who were distorting the true essence of the Gospel. They were misleading Gentile Christian converts into believing that adherence to Jewish customs and laws was necessary for salvation. Pastor Paul draws attention to the danger of adding anything to the pure message of Christ, emphasizing that such additions dilute the Gospel's transformative power.Listeners are guided...2024-05-2737 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Infilling of the Holy Spirit | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Infilling of the Holy Spirit Scripture: Acts 2:1-13Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerIt's time to reevaluate our spiritual posture. What is your spiritual state's current status? Are we content with a lukewarm faith, or are we hungry for the fullness of God's Spirit? The Spirit-filled life is not just a suggestion—it's a command and a blessing to be embraced.In a world where many settle for a form of godliness devoid of its inherent power, Pastor Paul challenges us to seek more. God paints a v...2024-05-2040 minChrist Church MemphisThe Deliverance of Jesus | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Deliverance of Jesus Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:8-11 Teacher: Paul Lawler Drawing parallels from the biblical narrative of God's people journeying through the desert, Pastor Paul Lawler reflects on how our own desert experiences reveal the true condition of our hearts and character. Listeners are guided through the desert seasons of key biblical figures like Joseph, Moses, and the Apostle Paul. Pastor Paul illuminates how these challenging times served as divine setups for breakthroughs, emphasizing that in the desert, God doesn't just change circumstances but transforms individuals.Usin...2024-05-1333 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Laborers in the Vineyard | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Laborers in the Vineyard Series: The Parables of JesusScripture: Matthew 20:1-16Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerIn the Parables of Jesus series finale, Pastor Paul Lawler exposes four key revelations embedded in this parable:The Dark Side of Our Echo Chambers: He explores how our preconceived notions of fairness can blind us to the grace of God, leading us to rebel against His sovereign generosity.The Pitfalls of Unhealthy Comparison: Lawler unpacks the dangers of comparing ourselves to others, emphasizing the...2024-05-0628 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Pharisee and Publican | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Pharisee and Publican Scripture: Luke 18:9-14Series: The Parables of JesusTeacher: Rev. Paul LawlerThere are two common deceptions that ensnare us in our spiritual journeys: Deception through comparison Deception through self-righteousnessDrawing from the Pharisee's prayer, Pastor Paul explains the dangers of comparing ourselves with others and relying on our own deeds for righteousness. But amidst these deceptions, the parable unveils four life-giving truths for contemplation. Through the lens of the repentant Publican, Pastor Paul guides listeners to recognize their unwo...2024-04-2926 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Unjust Judge | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Parable of the Unjust JudgeScripture: Luke 18:1-8Series: The Parables of JesusTeacher: Rev. Paul LawlerIn Jesus' day, the courtroom was not a grand building but a movable tent, and widows like the protagonist of this parable faced significant obstacles in seeking justice. Pastor Lawler highlights the stark contrast between the unjust judge's indifference and God's unwavering love and justice. Through this parable, we're reminded that God is always attentive to the cries of His children, even more so than an unjust human judge.2024-04-1544 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Unprofitable Servant | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Unprofitable ServantSeries: The Parables of JesusScripture: Luke 17:1-10Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerWhat is the transformative power of humility in our lives? Drawing from the context of Jesus' interactions with both the Pharisees and his disciples, Pastor Paul unpacks the importance of sensitivity and responsiveness to God coupled with deference for others. Through five key marks of humility, listeners will explore the profound impact of guarding oneself from causing others to sin, offering loving rebuke when appropriate, and extending forgiveness generously.2024-04-0834 minChrist Church MemphisWhat Does the Resurrection of Jesus Have to Do with Me? | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: What Does the Resurrection of Jesus Have to Do with Me? Series: EasterScripture: 1 Corinthians 15 (Selected Passages) Teacher: Rev. Paul Lawler"What does the resurrection have to do with you?" What if Jesus's resurrection holds the key to unlocking the deepest mysteries of existence? In his Easter Sunday sermon, Rev. Paul Lawler invites you to ponder the profound implications of life beyond the tomb.Have you ever wondered what lies beyond the veil of death? Are you searching for meaning in a world fil...2024-04-0143 minChrist Church MemphisIf the Rocks Cry Out? | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: If the Rocks Cry Out?Series: The Parables of JesusScripture: Luke 19:28-40Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerWhat does it mean to experience true worship? In this sermon, Pastor Paul Lawler examines the significance of worship through the lens of Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem for what's been come to known as Palm Sunday. As Jesus embarks on his journey towards Jerusalem for Passover, the crowd's enthusiasm reaches a crescendo. But amidst the waving palm branches and shouts of "Hosanna," there lies a deeper message a...2024-03-2534 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Rich Man and Lazarus | Pastor Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Rich Man and LazarusSeries: The Parables of JesusScripture: Luke 16:19-31Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerDrawing from Luke 16:19-31, Paul Lawler walks through the contrasts presented in the story: between the rich man and Lazarus, between life and death, and between the Pharisees' conventional thinking and Jesus' radical teachings.The Pharisees misplaced their confidence in their own prosperity and religiosity, and we should question our own notion that wealth equates to righteousness. Through the lens of Lazarus' dependence on God, true righteousness comes...2024-03-1829 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Unjust Steward | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Unjust StewardScripture: Luke 16:1-13Series: The Parables of JesusTeacher: Rev. Paul LawlerThrough vivid storytelling, Pastor Paul Lawler illustrates the plight of the unjust steward who faces a sudden crisis when confronted by his master about his mismanagement. As the steward navigates the challenge, he resorts to cunning tactics to secure his future, prompting reflection on the wisdom of worldly dealings versus heavenly discernment.Lawler unpacks Jesus' teachings, highlighting the contrast between the worldly wisdom of unbelievers and the enlightened perspective of...2024-03-1235 minChrist Church MemphisThe Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin | Pastor Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Parable of the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin Series: The Parables of JesusTeacher: Paul Lawler Scripture: Luke 15:1-10 In a congregation composed of tax collectors, sinners, and Pharisees, Jesus delivers a message that resonates with the depths of human experience. He speaks of those considered "lost" by societal standards, emphasizing the distinction between habitual sinners in need of repentance and the self-righteous who see no need for redemption.Drawing parallels between physical and spiritual lostness, Pastor Paul Lawler unveils the weighty significance of b...2024-02-2629 minChrist Church MemphisThe Parable of the Rich Fool | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Parable of the Rich FoolSeries: The Parables of JesusScripture: Luke 12:13-21Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerAt the heart of this parable lies a profound distinction between foolishness and faithfulness, underscored by Jesus's caution against the allure of covetousness. A man approaches Jesus seeking financial arbitration, revealing a mindset fixated on earthly possessions. Yet, Jesus reframes the discourse, refusing to be drawn into a matter of material wealth.Rev. Paul Lawler unpacks the narrative, highlighting the rich farmer's shortsightedness and self-centeredness. Despite his...2024-02-1235 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Parable of the Fig Tree | Pastor Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Parable of the Fig TreeScripture: Luke 13:6-9Series: The Parables of JesusTeacher: Pastor Paul LawlerIn this sermon, Pastor Paul Lawler explores the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree, and it will inspire you to reflect on the importance of bearing fruit in your life and what it means to fulfill God's desired will.Using the scripture as a guide, Pastor Paul Lawler delivers a thought-provoking message that revolves around the theme: "Bearing fruit is God's desired will for my life." Throughout...2024-02-0527 min
Christ Church MemphisThe Parable of the Two Sons | Pastor Paul LawlerSend us a textSermon: The Parable of the Two SonsSeries: The Parables of JesusScripture: Matthew 21:28-32Teacher: Pastor Paul LawlerIn this sermon, Pastor Paul delves into the powerful message of repentance and its significance in our walk with God, using the Parable of the Two Sons from Matthew 21:28-32 as our guide.While teaching in the Temple, amidst a diverse crowd of disciples, Chief Priests, Pharisees, and religious leaders, Jesus presents the parable of the two sons. One son initially refuses but later repents and obeys...2024-01-2941 minChrist Church MemphisDeveloping a Sensitivity to Holy Interruptions | Rev. Paul LawlerSend us a textSeries: Advent Series 2023Sermon: Developing a Sensitivity to Holy InterruptionsScripture: Matthew 1:18-25Teacher: Rev. Paul LawlerIn the inaugural sermon of our 2023 Advent Series, Rev. Paul Lawler explores the theme of developing a sensitivity to holy interruptions and the profound impact of hearing God's voice in our lives through the biblical narrative of Joseph and Mary, whose lives were forever changed by divine encounters.We all have plans for our lives—vacations, weddings, retirements, and career choices. Joseph and Mary were no different. Joseph, known as...2023-12-0432 min
Serious PrivacyOn Revelations and Doing What's Right (with Barb Lawler)Send us a textWhile Dr. K Royal of Outschool is enjoying a well deserved vacation, Ralph O’Brien is joining Paul Breitbarth of Catawiki for a Serious Privacy conversation with Barb Lawler, the CEO of the Information Accountability Foundation and winner of the 2022 IAPP Vanguard Award for North America. Barb has a long career in privacy and was, among other things, the first Chief Privacy Officer at Hewlett Packard. She spend many years in the same role at Intuit. At the IAF, Barb is involved in the foundation’s contributions to the global legislative debate on priv...2022-10-2643 min