Explore complex themes of sin, evil, and grace with Chris Jolly and Karl Faase, CEO Olive Tree Media and previously Gymea Baptist Church Pastor. This episode delves into why bad things happen, examining human nature and the notion of pride as a central sin. Using insights from C.S. Lewis and Francis Spufford, Faase addresses the need for forgiveness and grace amid suffering and challenges. Gain perspectives on the coexistence of a good God and worldly suffering, with biblical references and personal anecdotes enriching this deep and thoughtful conversation. Perfect for anyone questioning faith or exploring Christianity's enduring questions.

Karl Faase is a seasoned pastor hailing from Gymea Baptist Church. For years, Karl has enriched the Christian community with his leadership and insights. He is the CEO of Olive Tree Media, where he continues to explore and address key aspects of faith through various media channels. Karl is also known for his eloquent dialogues on challenging theological topics, making these complex issues more accessible to believers and seekers alike.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "The New Christian," Chris Jolly engages in a profound discussion with Karl Faase on the intricate subject of sin, evil, and suffering. This conversation is not only for those exploring Christianity but also for anyone grappling with life's tough questions about morality, suffering, and faith. Together, they tackle the pervasive question of why bad things happen in the world, examining humanity’s connection to sin and the theological implications of pride, forgiveness, and grace.

The conversation kicks off by defining sin from a Christian perspective, likening it to "missing the mark" and highlighting the role of pride as the underlying cause for many sins. Karl Faase delves into how pride manifests in self-sufficiency and the exclusion of God from our lives. They go on to discuss the real-world implications of sin, illustrating through stories and references—such as C.S. Lewis's views and Francis Spufford's work—that the propensity for human mistakes aligns with Biblical definitions of sin. A key theme is the transformational power of recognising one's imperfections and the need for divine grace.

Key Takeaways:

• Sin, from a Christian viewpoint, is about missing the divine mark of moral conduct, often fuelled by pride and the rejection of God.

• Humanity's innate tendency to commit sins can be seen as a "default setting" that requires divine intervention and the influence of the Holy Spirit to overcome.

• Suffering and evil are explored deeply, acknowledging that while they pose significant theological challenges, they also highlight human vulnerability and the potential for spiritual growth.

• Karl Faase emphasises the importance of attitude over mere behaviour, indicating that true Christian living demands changes in mindset that result in actions aligned with spiritual principles.

• The episode outlines differing perspectives on why suffering exists, challenging both atheists and believers to consider broader theological and existential implications.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The greatest sin is actually pride...the notion of like ignoring God, pushing God out of your life." - Karl Faase

2. "Sin is the human propensity to stuff things up." - Karl Faase, referencing Francis Spufford

3. "Our behaviours are downstream from our attitudes." - Karl Faase

4. "The point is not whether God turns up and we live to a ripe old age..." - Karl Faase

5. "Lord Jesus Christ, son of the living God, have mercy on me, a sinner." - Karl Faase

Resources:

• Olive Tree Media

• C.S. Lewis's "Mere Christianity"

• Francis Spufford's "Unapologetic"

• Rod Dreher's Books: "Living in Wonder"

Listeners are encouraged to tune into this enlightening episode to gain deeper insights into the nature of sin and suffering. Stay connected with "The New Christian" podcast for more engaging and thought-provoking discussions on faith and spirituality.

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Chris Jolly engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Reverend Dr. Tania Harris, exploring the essence and significance of prayer, particularly for new Christians. They dive into the nature of prayer as communication with God, its transformative power, and how it transcends mere requests to foster personal growth and relationship. The discussion highlights the Lord's Prayer as a foundational guide and addresses common concerns about unanswered prayers and discernment. Discover insights into building a meaningful spiritual connection and understanding God's voice in everyday life.

Tania Harris is an ordained minister, practical theologian, and the founder of God Conversations, a global ministry dedicated to helping people discern and respond to God's voice. With a background in authorship and broadcasting, Tania combines her deep theological insights with practical guidance to aid individuals in fostering a personal and responsive relationship with God. Her work is recognized internationally, and she is celebrated for her insights into prayer and spiritual development.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the podcast, Chris Jolly sits down with Reverend Dr. Tania Harris to explore the profound and often transformative subject of prayer. Designed for new Christians or those curious about the faith, this discussion sheds light on the nature of prayer as a vital component of spiritual life. Tania Harris, an expert in enabling individuals to connect with God's voice, guides listeners on how to approach prayer, emphasizing its role in establishing a personal relationship with God.

The episode delves into the broader aspects of prayer and communication with God, challenging the listener to consider prayer as more than a practice of requests but as an ongoing dialogue with the divine. Tania shares anecdotes and insights into how prayer, guided by the Holy Spirit, prompts personal growth and transformation. This episode underscores the power of prayer to not only bring about personal change but also influence the wider world through intercession and faith-driven actions.

Key Takeaways:

• Prayer is fundamentally a conversation with God, accessible and beneficial to both believers and non-believers.

• Effective prayer is rooted in understanding God's nature, as exemplified by the Lord’s Prayer as a model for communication.

• The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding, speaking, and responding to prayer, ensuring alignment with God's will.

• Prayer is about forming character and aligning with God's purpose, not merely about receiving one's desires.

• Gratitude and thanksgiving are essential elements of prayer, fostering a deeper relationship with God and others.

Notable Quotes:

• "Prayer is just communicating with God... like a conversation with God." – Tania Harris

• "When you come to prayer, you can expect God to speak back, and God will call us to lay down our wants for his wants.” – Tania Harris

• "Understanding that God is a giver of good gifts... but not at the expense of forming us into the people that we are created to be." – Tania Harris

• "Go into the hidden place where no one sees you." – Tania Harris, on the humility of prayer.

• "The Holy Spirit will speak to us in our prayer and beyond it about who God is and what we're called to be like." – Tania Harris

Resources:

• God Conversations: God Conversations Website

• Lectio 365 App: A recommended app for daily scripture reading and prayer.

• Bible Reference: Matthew Chapter 6, for the Lord’s Prayer.

Listen to the full episode for an enriching dive into prayer's role in nurturing faith, and s

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Chris Jolly and John North delve into the essentials of integrating into a church community, covering topics from choosing the right church among many denominations to understanding key practices like worship and communion. They discuss the roles of pastors, the significance of small groups, and how to handle disagreements within a church. John, well-known from the "Time with God" podcast, offers insights into fostering personal relationships with God and others in the church, making this episode an invaluable guide for new Christians seeking spiritual growth in a church setting.

John North is an influential spiritual leader and the director of Ambassadors for Christ Australia. Born in India to Australian missionary parents, he grew up in the United States and eventually settled in Australia. John is renowned for his dedication to sharing the teachings of Christianity through his impactful work on the "Time with God" podcast by Hope Media. John has dedicated over two decades to expanding the spiritual understanding of individuals and communities, nurturing their faith and helping them engage with the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode featuring John North from "Time with God," listeners are offered rich insights into the foundations and functions of church life. John shares his long-standing journey with "Time with God," exploring a poignant episode on prioritising significant aspects of life, like Bible reading, as an anchor that ought to take precedence over less important daily distractions. This episode unfolds from John's influential ministry experiences, offering a unique perspective to new believers attempting to navigate their way around church practices.

John North thoroughly explores the concepts of church life, addressing how churches function as spiritual families that cater to the Christian journey. Topics such as the role of the church, the significance of spiritual gifts, and the importance of balancing personal faith with communal worship are examined. John delves into the diverse landscape of church denominations, explaining how they manifest different worship styles and organisational structures, ensuring that listeners understand the value of choosing a church that resonates both spiritually and personally. An emphasis on engaging with the community, participating in small groups, and understanding church traditions is supported by John's profound understanding of Christian teachings.

Key Takeaways:

• John North emphasises the importance of prioritising personal spiritual practices daily and integrating them with church life for holistic growth.

• Understanding and engaging with diverse church denominations enable believers to find a spiritual family that aligns with their faith journey.

• Churches serve as more than places of worship; they are communities that facilitate spiritual growth through ministries, small groups, and collective faith practices.

• Spiritual gifts play a vital role in church life, where each believer’s unique talents contribute to fulfilling the mission of the Body of Christ.

• Engagement in church life through consistent attendance, involvement in small groups, and active participation in ministry work is critical for spiritual development.

Notable Quotes:

1. "A church is a group of believers together acting as a kind of spiritual family with one another." - John North

2. "When Jesus comes into your life, you become a part of his stream of activity in this world." - John North

3. "It's not just what God does in you, and it's not just what God does for you, but it's what God does through you." - John North

Resources:

• Ambassadors for Christ Australia

• Time with God Podcast

Listeners are encouraged to immerse themselves in the full episode for a more comprehensive understanding of navigating church life. Stay tuned for more enlightening content that deepens spiritual growth and community engagements through the podcast series.

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Join hosts Chris Jolly and New Testament lecturer Mark Stephens from SMBC as they delve into the intricacies of the Holy Spirit on the New Christian Podcast. Explore the Spirit's presence from Genesis through the New Testament, its role within the Trinity, and its gifts of guidance, empowerment, and transformation in believers' lives. Discover how the Spirit aids in understanding and applying scripture and its pivotal role in conversion and obeying God. This conversation promises to enhance your understanding of the Spirit's profound impact on personal faith and community life.

Mark Stephens is a distinguished lecturer in New Testament studies at Sydney Missionary and Bible College (SMBC), where he has been imparting knowledge for nearly four years. He is known for his comprehensive understanding of the New Testament and his ability to convey complex theological concepts in an accessible manner. Mark's expertise extends beyond academia, engaging with the wider Christian community through insightful discussions and teachings.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of the New Christian Podcast, host Chris Jolly sits down with Mark Stephens, a New Testament lecturer at SMBC, to unravel the complexities of the Holy Spirit's role in Christianity. With an engaging discussion format, the episode explores foundational Christian concepts, catering to new believers seeking to deepen their understanding of their faith. This episode provides clarity on key theological ideas, making it a must-listen for those looking to enrich their spiritual journey.

Mark Stephens delves into the presence of the Holy Spirit across the Scriptures, highlighting its integral role from Genesis to the New Testament. He explains the concept of the Trinity and how the Holy Spirit functions as both a personal being and an aspect of God. Throughout the episode, the discussion highlights the Holy Spirit's functions, from its role in creation to being a source of guidance and comfort in modern Christian life. Stephens emphasises that the Holy Spirit is not just a vague force but a concrete presence that aids believers in their everyday lives and spiritual growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the Trinity: Mark Stephens explains the interconnected roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit within the Trinity, emphasising that while distinct, they are unified in purpose and divinity.

• The Holy Spirit in Scripture: From creation narratives in Genesis to its pivotal role in the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is central to God's interactions with humanity.

• Empowerment and Guidance: The Holy Spirit serves as a guide, comforter, and source of divine strength, aiding believers in navigating their daily spiritual challenges.

• Prayer and Intercession: The Holy Spirit assists believers in their communication with God, interpreting and conveying their deepest thoughts and emotions.

• Transformation and Ministry: The gifting of spiritual abilities through the Holy Spirit empowers believers to contribute to the church's mission and experience personal transformation.

Notable Quotes:

• "The Holy Spirit is God and he's a person. He has emotions, he has a mind. He is someone who can listen to us and who can talk to us." – Mark Stephens

• "Salvation is by faith, not by works... everybody gets the Holy Spirit when they trust Christ." – Mark Stephens

• "The Holy Spirit is there to constantly remind us and use God's Word...to apply it to our lives." – Mark Stephens

• "It's not a bonus blessing. We don't earn it or merit it because we've done something extra special after we've become a Christian." – Mark Stephens

• "The Holy Spirit is not a tournament of awesomeness with regards to prayer. The Holy Spirit is there to help us to pray." – Mark Stephens

Resources:

• Sydney Missionary and Bible College: SMBC

• Mentioned Scripture: Genesis 1, 2 Corinthians 1:22, Romans 8, Acts 2, John 14-16, Joel 2, Numbers 11, Ephesians 2, 1 Corinthians 12, Galatians 5:22-23, Matthew 28 (Great Commission).

Join us in this enlightening episode as Mark Stephens enriches our understanding of the Holy Spirit's pivotal role in faith. Stay tuned for more engaging content in upcoming episodes as the series continues to explore foundational Christian teachings.

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Chris Jolly engages with Skip Smith from Alpha Australia in a profound exploration of Jesus Christ's identity. Together, they discuss historical evidence for Jesus, including textual criticism and eyewitness accounts of the resurrection. They delve into C.S. Lewis' perspective on Jesus’ claims and discuss the enduring impact of Jesus' teachings on Western society. The conversation also highlights the transformative power of faith and the role of the Holy Spirit in believers’ lives, offering insights into how individuals can invite Jesus into their lives for spiritual growth and guidance.

Skip Smith is the Church Engagement Lead and Director of Prayer for Alpha Australia. With significant experience in Christian ministry and education, Skip has dedicated his career to helping individuals explore and deepen their faith. He is recognized for his insightful perspectives on Christianity and its core tenets, particularly the role of Jesus Christ within the faith. His work involves guiding churches and congregations across Australia to effectively engage with the Alpha program, designed to introduce the basics of Christian faith through a series of talks and discussions.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode, host Chris Jolly converses with Skip Smith, an authority on Christian theology and church engagement, to explore the pivotal question: "Who is Jesus Christ?" The dialogue opens doors for newcomers to the Christian faith, unraveling the nuanced understanding of Jesus as fully divine and fully human. Skip eloquently delves into theological concepts, biblical references, and historical perspectives to provide a comprehensive overview of Jesus’s identity and his enduring influence on history and personal lives.

The discussion shifts seamlessly into the evidence supporting the historical existence of Jesus, comparing documentation and textual criticism to affirm his reality beyond religious texts. Smith discusses the transformative power of Jesus's teachings and resurrection, substantiated by historical records and eyewitness testimonies. The episode aligns theological doctrine with practical experiences, emphasizing Christ's role in modern spirituality and his living presence in the hearts of believers today.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Jesus's Identity: Jesus is presented as both fully divine and human, a core tenet of Christian theology, underscoring the concept of incarnation.
• Historical Validation: There is substantial historical evidence outside and within the New Testament supporting Jesus’s existence, further validated by textual criticism.
• Transformative Impact: Jesus’s teachings and resurrection have had a profound influence on cultures and societies worldwide, prompting continuous discourse among scholars and believers.
• Contemporary Relevance: The risen Christ continues to transform lives today, engaging directly with individuals through spiritual experiences and revelations.
• Invitation to Faith: A simple, heartfelt prayer is presented as a way for individuals to invite Jesus into their lives, marking the beginning of a faith journey.

Notable Quotes:

1. "For Christians, this is the very crux, I suppose, of Christianity is wrestling with exactly this." - Skip Smith
2. "He called himself the Son of Man. You'll find the apostles call him the Son of God." - Skip Smith
3. "Jesus unequivocally claimed equality with God, right?" - Skip Smith
4. "History tells us, held fast to this confession. No, Jesus is alive, and they were killed for their faith." - Skip Smith
5. "A prayer might go something like this… 'Would you come into my life and make me yours now and forever?'" - Skip Smith

Resources:

• Related Literature: C.S. Lewis’s essays and narratives on Christian apologetics provide further insight into understanding Jesus.
• Author Mention: Tom Holland's book, "Dominion," explores the influence of Christianity on Western culture.
• Alpha Australia: Alpha Australia - For more information about Skip Smith's work and the Alpha program.

Listeners are encouraged to dive deeper into the episode for a fuller grasp of these rich theological discussions and personal insights. Stay tuned for more episodes as the series continues to discover and discuss the foundations and future of faith.

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Join Chris Jolly and Max Jeganathan from the Centre for Public Christianity as they explore the fundamental question: Who is God? Delve into the concepts of God as Creator, Father, and Redeemer, and uncover the relational aspect of the Christian faith. This discussion navigates the complexities of understanding God’s omniscience and the Trinity, while addressing common misconceptions. Ideal for those on a faith journey or simply curious about Christianity, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of belief, divine relationship, and the essence of spirituality.

Max Jeganathan is a seasoned thought leader and speaker with a deep expertise in Christian theology and public engagement. As a part of the Centre for Public Christianity, Max draws on his extensive academic background and experience in engaging complex issues at the intersection of faith and culture. His work focuses on providing insights into spiritual matters that are accessible to both believers and seekers alike, making him a prominent voice in contemporary Christian discourse.

Episode Summary:

In this enlightening episode of The New Christian, host Chris Jolly engages in a profound conversation with Max Jeganathan from the Centre for Public Christianity. Together, they delve into the monumental question of "Who is God?" catering to listeners who may be grappling with life's challenges, as well as those simply curious about Christianity's core beliefs. Chris and Max explore foundational Christian doctrines in a way that invites open inquiry and deeper understanding.

The discussion unfolds around the nature of God as the Creator, Father, and Redeemer, providing listeners with a comprehensive framework anchored in Christian theology. Max Jeganathan articulates the unique aspects of God as triune—a concept encapsulating God as one being with three centers of consciousness: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This episode emphasizes the relational aspect of God, underscoring Christianity's assertion that truth is not just a set of propositions but embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. The episode also extends an invitation to those pondering spirituality, encouraging beginning or deepening their relationship with God, supported by real-world examples and theological insights.

Key Takeaways:

• Explore Christianity's view of God as the Creator, Father, and Redeemer.
• Understand the concept of the Trinity: one God with three centers of consciousness.
• Dive into the relational nature of God and how it distinguishes Christianity from other worldviews.
• Recognize the Christian perspective on human brokenness and the need for redemption through Jesus.
• Reflect on the importance of personal and communal exploration of faith.

Notable Quotes:

1. "There should be some mystery… if there is an all-powerful, all-knowing God, our cognitive capacities would naturally be less than His."
2. "It's uniquely in the Christian worldview where God literally steps into the world as a person and points to himself and says, 'I am the truth.'"
3. "The difference with the Christian message is that God doesn't want to be studied; He wants to be known."
4. "Jesus didn't really come into the world to make bad people good. He came into the world to make dead people live."
5. "The Christian is someone who is not trying to be good… recognizes that they can't be good in their own strength."

Resources:

• Centre for Public Christianity: publicchristianity.org
• Mention of figures like C.S. Lewis and G.K. Chesterton for deeper theological insights and Christian literature.
• Exploration of theological documents such as the Nicene Creed.

For listeners curious about exploring or deepening their faith, this episode of "The New Christian Podcast" with guest Max Jeganathan is a treasure trove of insights. Tune in for an engaging journey into understanding God and fostering a relationship with the divine and stay tuned for more enlightening discussions.

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