Shows
The BertoniansComing to God: What Jesus Refused to ChaseThis is part one of an ongoing series titled The Spiritual Rhythms of Jesus. This episode studies Jesus' pattern in the Gospels of escaping to be with God. This episode seeks to answer the question: why do I feel unsatisfied, and what do I do about it?Scripture: Mark 1:35Links: www. sanberto.com/linksSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/2cvhc2fyzqdmkprqf0ptx/Coming-to-God.pdf?rlkey=rdn90ukyuw5cn0ml4jh0375uc&st=8zcsxb6f&dl=0Accompanying Essay: Not published yet
2026-02-1829 minThe BertoniansSon of_____: Counting the Cost of Answered PrayerWhat's in a name? And what does it cost to leave behind everything you know for something better? In this teaching, we meet a man whose name told the world God had abandoned him. When Jesus passes by, the beggar faces a question that sounds simple but cuts to the heart of faith itself: "What do you want me to do for you?"Passages explored: Luke 18:35–43, Mark 10:46-52Links: www. sanberto.com/linksSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/165gm3xh0si07l6inaj2l/Son-of_.pd...
2026-01-2829 minThe BertoniansHere be Dragons: Faith at the Edge of the WorldAncient maps warned travelers at the edges of the known world with a simple phrase: here be dragons. It was a way of naming fear, uncertainty, and everything no one could control. This New Year’s message invites you to stand at the edge of your own map and consider what lies beyond what feels safe.Drawing from Acts 20–28, this episode traces the final movements of Paul’s life and the unfinished ending of the book of Acts. The story closes with a single word that reframes danger, obedience, and the unknown.As a new year b...
2026-01-1332 minThe BertoniansNew Things: God Wants You To Forget ThisIn this teaching, Pastor Alex explores the role of memory in the life of faith. Scripture repeatedly calls God’s people to remember—but just as often, it invites us to forget, to release, and to let go. Why does God care so much about what we hold onto in our minds and hearts? And how does memory shape the way we see the present moment?This episode reflects on how memory can either ground us in truth or trap us in the past, and how God reshapes our remembering so we can discern what he is doin...
2026-01-0124 minThe BertoniansHow Long?: Learning to Wait in the Ache of LongingWaiting is easy when it’s inconvenient. It’s much harder when it hurts.In this Advent reflection, Alex sits with one of Scripture’s most uncomfortable questions: How long? Drawing from the opening lament over Jerusalem, this episode explores the kind of waiting that doesn’t come with quick resolutions. The kind marked by silence, loss, and longing.Rather than rushing to hope, this conversation lingers in the ache, examining why Scripture makes space for mourning, why Advent begins in the dark, and what it means to wait with courage in a culture that avoids b...
2025-12-2212 minThe BertoniansThe Misconception of Christianity as Non-ReligiousIn this conversation, Alex Portillo discusses the relationship between Christianity and religion, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Christianity as a religion rather than merely a relationship with God. He critiques the common phrase that Christianity is not a religion, arguing that it undermines the complexity of faith and the role of religion in shaping beliefs and practices. Portillo encourages Christians to engage with secular criticisms thoughtfully and to embrace their religious identity without shame.Here are some resources that can help you in creating a devotional practice: Logos Bible Software- www.logos.com/sanbertoInstagram - www.instagram.com/sanbertoalejandro...
2025-12-2209 minThe BertoniansIn Weakness: Could God Have Saved Humanity Another Way?In this Advent message, Alex Portillo explores the profound question of why Jesus became human, emphasizing the themes of fragility, vulnerability, and the necessity of suffering for mercy. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on the immigrant experience, he illustrates how Christ's incarnation connects deeply with human suffering and weakness, ultimately presenting Jesus as the perfect Savior who understands and empathizes with our struggles.Text: Hebrews 4:15-16Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoChapters00:00 La Sagrada Familia02:40 The Immigrant Experience and...
2025-12-1521 minThe BertoniansDid The Bible Predict Artificial Intelligence?In this conversation, Alex Portillo responds to a video claiming AI is in the Book of Daniel and Revelation. He discusses the implications of knowledge increase in the end times, the misinterpretations surrounding AI, and the mark of the beast. He emphasizes the importance of understanding biblical texts to avoid deception.Here are some resources that can help you in creating a devotional practice: Logos Bible Software- www.logos.com/sanbertoInstagram - www.instagram.com/sanbertoalejandro Donate- www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertohttps://www.amazon.com...
2025-12-0810 minThe BertoniansThe Grateful, One: The Secret to Miraculous HealingText: Luke 17:11–19In this teaching, Alex Portillo explores the story of the ten lepers from Luke 17, emphasizing the themes of healing, faith, and gratitude. He discusses the significance of the lepers' cry for mercy, their obedience to Jesus' command, and the importance of returning to express gratitude. The conversation delves into the psychological phenomenon of forgetting and how gratitude can lead to deeper healing and transformation in our lives. Ultimately, it calls for a conscious practice of thankfulness as a way to remain aware of God's mercy and goodness.Links: ww...
2025-12-0129 minThe BertoniansBefore God and Men: Discovering the Bloom of HolinessWe say we love God. We say we love others. But what if the real test isn’t in what we say at all? In this teaching from 1 John 4:20, Alex explores a truth that can’t be faked—one that quietly exposes what’s real in our hearts.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/y165xern6dornpw68j83n/Before-God-and-Men.pdf?rlkey=iyht1pen7bbjdwv040tz6mkbg&st=ppmztva8&dl=000:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podc...
2025-11-2411 minThe BertoniansA Personal Message from Alex PortilloA quick message from me to you — thank you for listening.If the Bertonians have encouraged or challenged you, please tap 'subscribe,' rate the show, or share an episode.Your support truly matters.
2025-11-1802 minThe BertoniansThe Light by Which We See: Seeing Beyond the Pain of LifeThis message was delivered at a memorial service. In this homily, Alex Portillo explores the themes of faith, perspective, and healing through the story of the blind man in John 9. He emphasizes how Jesus' actions reveal a deeper understanding of suffering and redemption, encouraging listeners to see their struggles through the light of faith. C.S. Lewis's insights on faith as a means of understanding reality are also discussed, culminating in a message of hope regarding death and resurrection.TakeawaysThe podcast is a personal teaching from Alex Portillo.The story of the blind man illustrates...
2025-11-1713 minThe BertoniansDoes Perfect Love Cast Out Fear?After the main interview ended, Alex Portillo and Kevin Grasso continued the conversation with some practical discussion about Bible translation. This bonus segment delves into how the phrase “perfect love casts out fear” is misunderstood. We also look at the story of Jacob's ladder in the Masoretic text, Septuagint, and Targum. It’s an unscripted, behind-the-scenes look at the kind of translation insights that didn’t make it into the main episode.Try Biblingo Free for ten Days hereFind Biblingo on socials @BiblingoappLinks: www. sanberto.com/linksDon...
2025-11-1218 minThe BertoniansYou Need to Learn Hebrew... Here's whyIn this conversation, Alex Portillo and Dr. Kevin Grasso explore the complexities of Bible translations, the importance of understanding biblical languages, and the distinctions between translation and interpretation. They discuss the importance of idioms, the role of context, and how modern technology has made learning Hebrew and Greek more accessible. The dialogue emphasizes that while translations can convey meaning, engaging with the original languages can deepen one's understanding of scripture and enhance theological discussions.Try Biblingo Free for ten Days hereFind Biblingo on socials @BiblingoappLinks...
2025-11-1055 minThe BertoniansBonus: Fear of God, satan, and demonsThis is a bonus to the episode, Is Holloween Satan's Birthday Party? The crew discusses the complex relationship between fear, love, and understanding in the context of faith. They discuss the paradox of fearing God while also feeling safe in His presence, the dangers of misinformation, and the importance of navigating fear with a deeper understanding. The dialogue emphasizes the need for thoughtful reflection and the challenge of addressing misconceptions in conversations about faith and spirituality.Guests in this episode:Dr. Seth Pierce — Find him on Instagram and TikTok @professorpierce. He also writes on Sub...
2025-10-3118 minThe BertoniansIs Halloween Satan’s Birthday Party? (Asking for a Friend)In this conversation, Alex Portillo, Nate Hellman, and Dr. Seth Pierce explore the complex relationship between Halloween and Christianity, delving into the historical context of the Satanic Panic, the evolution of Halloween traditions, and the cultural implications of fear and monsters in Christian narratives. They discuss personal experiences with spiritual warfare, the significance of testimonies, and provide insights on how Christians can engage with Halloween in a thoughtful and informed manner.Guests in this episode:Dr. Seth Pierce — Find him on Instagram and TikTok @professorpierce. He also writes on Substack at Infodemonology an...
2025-10-2956 minThe BertoniansWalk in the Light: Why Hiding Sin Does More Damage Than Committing ItWhat does it actually mean to walk in the light? In this episode, Alex unpacks a powerful passage from 1 John 1:5–10 and explores how living in the light goes beyond believing the right things or striving for righteousness. It’s about something far more vulnerable—and freeing.If you’ve ever wrestled with hidden struggles, questions about confession, or wondered how honesty shapes real Christian community, this teaching will challenge and encourage you.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/rqv59...
2025-10-2734 minThe BertoniansDon’t Ask Why: What We Really Need When Life Hurts.We’ve all asked questions that don’t have easy answers. In times of loss, disappointment, or silence from God, we often wonder, “Why?” But sometimes, the most important truth isn’t found in explanations. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 10:29–30: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” This verse paints a picture of a God who pays attention to the smallest details of our lives and who offers comfort even in our darkest sea...
2025-10-2010 minThe BertoniansNew Mercy: Learning How to Lament With MercyIn this message, Alex walks through one of the most striking passages in the book of Lamentations—a text written in the heart of grief and exile, yet turning toward surprising hope. From the careful structure of Hebrew poetry to the words that rise up in the middle of despair, the teaching explores what it means to remember God’s love and mercy in seasons of loss and uncertainty.Scripture Studied: Lamentations 3:21–24Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/sc0...
2025-10-1230 minThe BertoniansHomunculus: The Myth of Strength and the Way of JesusWhat does it mean that Christ was “crucified in weakness yet lives by the power of God”? In this teaching on 2 Corinthians 13:3–5, Alex explores how our assumptions about strength and weakness shape our faith, our discipleship, and even the way we picture Jesus.ReflectionWhat is the image that I have of Jesus?How does this image shape my life?Does it match the Biblical portrayal of Jesus?What assumptions must I abandon?Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi...
2025-10-0627 minThe BertoniansHow to Become Filthy Rich: A Biblical Guide to WealthWe chase money, status, and security, but Scripture says God’s wealth looks nothing like ours. In Ephesians 1:7–8, Paul describes the “riches of His grace” lavished on us. What does that mean for how we live? In this teaching, we explore why God’s riches matter for your peace and freedom today, and what it looks like to live spiritually wealthy even when life feels poor.Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanbertoSlides: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/jc1qio4trax4d5a5zhwvv/How...
2025-10-0327 minThe BertoniansThe XenosMatthew 25:31–46 places every nation before Christ’s throne and hinges on a single phrase: “the least of these.” In this teaching, we wrestle with who Jesus means—and why our answer exposes the shape of our discipleship toward the hungry, the stranger, the sick, and the imprisoned.Reflection Who in your life or community do you instinctively avoid or overlook—and what story have you told yourself to justify it? Imagine Jesus standing in front of you, disguised as the person you fear, judge, or ignore most. What would you say or do differently—...
2025-10-0230 minThe BertoniansHe Wanted TooIn Mark 6:45–52, Jesus walks on water in the middle of the night. But tucked inside this story is a surprising detail most of us skip right over—one that changes the way we see storms, faith, and the way Jesus meets us in our struggles.In this episode, Pastor Alex explores why Jesus doesn’t always calm the wind, what it means to row through resistance, and how God uses both storms and headwinds to strengthen us for what’s ahead. Reflection: What kind of storm are you in right now? Is it a...
2025-10-0131 minThe BertoniansThe Good Guardian 3/3In this episode, we bring our study of Psalm 23 to a close by reflecting on its final verse: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” This line has comforted countless people through the ages, but what does it really mean for God’s goodness and mercy to “follow” us?Together, we’ll consider the imagery, the language, and the weight of these words. More than poetry, they reveal something essential about God’s character and about the kind of life we are invited...
2025-09-3026 minThe BertoniansThe Good Host 2/3In this episode, we dive into Psalm 23:5 and ask, “What does it mean for God to prepare a table for us in the presence of our enemies?” Together we’ll explore the imagery of God as host, the comfort it brings in times of conflict, and the hope it offers for daily life. If you’ve ever wondered how this verse speaks into your struggles and challenges, this teaching will give you a fresh perspective and encouragement.ReflectionLord, where did you spread a table for me today?Where did I resist what you offe...
2025-09-2932 minThe BertoniansThe Good Shepherd 1/3This is a teaching on Psalm 23:3. We explore the meaning of "he refreshes my soul."ReflectionWhere did I notice God simply with me, quietly present in my ordinary moments? How did I sense God leading me—toward rest, through challenge, or back to what is good?Looking back, where can I see God “returning” me when my heart or mind wandered?Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate-: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto
2025-09-2834 minThe BertoniansWhere Your Treasure IsWhat do you treasure most, and how is it shaping your heart? In this Matthew 5–6 teaching, we explore the concept of reward and treasure. Discover why the poor in spirit are truly rich, how hidden acts of faith become wages of the heart, and why no one will enter heaven whose heart isn’t already there first.Reflection Where is my treasure today? What has been training my heart lately? Which master am I serving right now? Links: www. sanberto.com/linksDonate: www.buymeacoffee.com/sanberto
2025-09-2819 min
Bad Movies Rule!Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze (1991)Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2: Secret of the Ooze has been blasted by critics, and while it was beloved by children back in the 90s, what do those kids think now? Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael, and Donatello take on the Shredder (or spoiler alert: they don't) and try to save New York one more time, while also learning where they came from! Let's imagine a Ninja Turtle movie where they never use their weapons, but are sticklers for observing the traditional pre-fight donut. Bad Movies Rule is a movie podcast about the movies you love even if no one...
2024-01-052h 06
Bad Movies Rule!Predator (1987) - Good Movies Rule! #1This is a special preview of the first episode of our Patreon-exclusive show, Good Movies Rule that originally aired on June 1st, 2023. Enjoy this free episode, and please consider joining Patreon for a new episode every month! We've already covered Jurassic Park, Jaws, Spaceballs, Ferris Bueller, The Nice Guys, Reservoir Dogs, and They Live! Join at the link below. You can support Bad Movies Rule on Patreon here.You can join our community on Facebook and TikTok.Leave us a voicemail for us to play on mailbag episodes: 262-757-8567
2024-01-011h 52
Bad Movies Rule!Delta Force 2: The Columbian Connection (1990)Clint, Mel, James, and Bob are back with Chuck Norris as he face-kicks his way through South America taking on the cartel. Billy Drago plays the perfect early 90s slimeball cocaine mogul as he sends his endless supply of henchmen to take on Chuck before he seizes his mountains of coke. The movie is a complete departure from Delta Force 1 which tried to say something important, it failed, but at least it tried. What do you think of Delta Force 2? Let us know in the comment section below. Bad Movies Rule is a movie podcast about the...
2023-12-291h 58
Bad Movies Rule!Mailbag #37 - Batman Called InIt's the day after Christmas, but here we got a chance to open some gifts sent into the studio, as well as take more of your emails and voicemails. Suggestions are in like Moonfire and Hank & Mike, as well as someone who sounds like they are reviewing Santa With Muscles at gunpoint. Batman listened to our Terminator Salvation episode, and he's not happy about it. Bad Movies Rule is a movie podcast about the movies you love even if no one else does.You can support Bad Movies Rule on Patreon here.You...
2023-12-2658 min
Bad Movies Rule!Tremors 3: Back to Perfection (2001)Stephanie, Joe, and the Mayor are back in Perfection alongside Burt Gummer as he continues to have the worst luck ever. No matter how many killer dirtworms (aka Graboids) he takes out, they seem to follow him all over the world. This time, back in his hometown, will he be able to stop them for good? Given that there are 7 Tremor's movies, I'm guessing no. At least we can have fun roasting all of this ridiculousness along the way. Bad Movies Rule is a movie podcast about the movies you love even if no one else does.
2023-12-221h 45
Bad Movies Rule!Reindeer Games (2000)What if Ben Affleck amid "misses" Forces of Nature and Bounce, made a heist movie that had plot twists on top of its plot twists, featuring an unhinged Gary Sinise and a young (crazy) Charlize Theron? A recipe for success you might think, but Reindeer Games got blasted by critics, and audiences and it bombed financially. Where did it go wrong? It had a great writer and an all-time director John Frankenheimer. Is it time to re-assess Reindeer Games or does it deserve its spot in the garbage heap of 90's cinema? Bad Movies Rule is a...
2023-12-152h 10
Bad Movies Rule!Mailbag #36 - A Child Shall Lead UsWe hit the phone lines and the emails again, for the third straight week as we try and catch up to all of our messages! Listeners freaking out that Bob has kids, another one defends Ernest and Clint thinks he's a plant, and a long-time listener finally hits us up on the mailbag!!Bad Movies Rule is a movie podcast about the movies you love even if no one else does.You can support Bad Movies Rule on Patreon here.You can join our community on Facebook and TikTok.Leave us...
2023-12-1150 min
Bad Movies Rule!Santa With Muscles (1996)Imagine the pitch meeting - "It's Santa Claus, right, but this one has muscles!" PRINT THE MONEY! Now, the rest of us are left to pick up the pieces of Hulk Hogan's Santa With Muscles (1996). Previous Hulk Hogan movies had him playing different versions of himself, and here he attempts to act and play a different character. It goes about as well as you'd expect. Many questions will be answered - how did Mila Kunis bury this performance? How can a lawn ornament bench press 300 pounds? Why is Ed Leslie playing an Asian? We'll pull it all apart, and...
2023-12-081h 47
Bad Movies Rule!Mailbag #35 - Phone a Friend!Bad Movies Rule is a movie podcast about the movies you love even if no one else does.You can support Bad Movies Rule on Patreon here.You can join our community on Facebook and TikTok.Leave us a voicemail for us to play on mailbag episodes: 262-757-8567You can email the show any movie-related questions for our mailbag episodes here. Thank you to all of these awesome Patreon backers! - Corey Bauch, Craig Soto II, Graham Douglas, Jack Deen, James Pulley, James Stanley, Jason Smith, Joshua T...
2023-12-0553 min
Bad Movies Rule!The One (2001)Not too many movies out there featuring Jet Li in dreadlocks, but this is where we find ourselves. Even though The One (2001) is rated very low by critics, some swear this is an awesome movie. The movie made us laugh, we're just not sure it was supposed to. It also features one of the best Jet Li fights we've ever seen. We go scene by scene and answer the important questions - how did Jet Li get with Carla Gugino? Why is the only thing different in each parallel universe his hairdo? Why does Jason Statham have hair, and wh...
2023-12-011h 49