The Foundation Hangout

Ep 44. Misusing the Word of God part 3: Special Guest Skip Cherryholmes

About the Podcast  This episode of The Foundation Hangout, hosted by Pastor Brian and featuring Skip, concludes a three-part series focusing on why believers look for loopholes or gray areas in Scripture. The discussion centers on the heart's intent when trying to justify personal actions against biblical principles. They explore how focusing on these debates distracts believers from the main point of Scripture and listening to the Holy Spirit. Key Takeaways  * (03:02) Focus on Heart's Intent: The primary focus of seeking loopholes or gray areas in Scripture is often driven by a desire to justify something already present in one's life. Jesus emphasized the intent of the heart, stating that what is in the heart dictates what comes out of the mouth, suggesting that a heart prioritizing the world will seek scriptural loopholes. * (04:47) Context and Scriptural Intent: Context is crucial when interpreting Scripture, especially when dealing with laws that were ceremonial or specific to a certain time period. While these sections offer learning opportunities, they are not always directly applicable to current culture; ignoring context leads to misinterpretation and justification of sin. * (10:07) Scripture Reveals God's Character: Reading Scripture from cover to cover reveals God's character, a primary attribute of which is principle. Trying to justify actions based on scriptural gray areas or silence ignores the overarching principle founded in the rest of Scripture regarding God's will for one's life. * (11:40) The Deceitful Heart: Jeremiah 17:9 states that the heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, meaning only God truly knows it. Believers must focus their minds on God because their own hearts can lead them to make wrong decisions, often driven by emotion rather than truth. * (16:10) Grace is Not License for Sin: The question of whether believers should continue in sin so that grace may abound must be answered with a definite 'Certainly not,' as stated in Romans 6:1. While grappling with sin is inevitable due to the surrounding world, the heart's desire should be to abstain from it. * (16:50) Gray Areas and Personal Battles: Areas of Scripture that appear gray are often intended to apply specifically to individual circumstances and personal battles. The justification process for these gray areas reveals what a person needs to be 'dying of' daily; trying to fit God into one's current lifestyle, rather than fitting the lifestyle into God's intent, is a form of idolatry. * (28:54) Building Up the Brethren: When dealing with lifestyle issues where Scripture is not explicit or has gray areas, a key principle is considering how one's actions build up or potentially cause stumbling for other believers. A Christian's lifestyle provides an example, and if it offers justification for sin to others, it violates the principle of building up the brethren. * (34:29) The Purpose of Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 emphasizes that all Scripture is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness, equipping the man of God for every good work. People often avoid digging deeper because Scripture is sharp, pointing out flaws, and the sinful nature resists having its wrongdoings brought to attention. * (53:15) Humility in Understanding: To overcome misusing Scripture, Christians must trust the Lord with all their heart and lean not on their own understanding, as Proverbs 3:5 advises. Developing humility involves accepting that one's current understanding is only a fractional glimpse and being comfortable with being called out by God through His word. * (51:56) Effort in the Relationship: What a person will be judged on is the effort they put into the relationship with Christ, not just relying on someone else's teaching or understanding. Just as a student is graded on their own test answers, believers must strive to dig deeper into the word, as this effort reveals more of God's character.

Ep 43. Misusing the Word of God part 2: Special Guest Skip Cherryholmes

About the Podcast  In this episode of The Foundation Hangout, Pastor Brian and Skip Cherryholmes continue their discussion on the misuse and misunderstanding of Scripture, focusing on the issue of cherry-picking verses. They explore how both believers and non-believers can take scriptures out of context to justify their actions or condemn others, and emphasize the importance of understanding the original text and cultural context to properly interpret the Bible. Key Takeaways  * (01:20) Cherry-picking scripture: Cherry-picking scripture involves selectively using verses to support a particular viewpoint while ignoring the broader context and meaning of the passage. This can lead to misinterpretations and the distortion of God's message. It is important to consider the original intent and audience of the scripture to avoid misapplication. * (04:13) Understanding scripture in context: Understanding scripture requires considering the historical, cultural, and linguistic context in which it was written. This includes examining the original language, the intended audience, and the overall message of the passage. Taking verses out of context can lead to misinterpretations and the distortion of God's message. * (07:19) Accountability in interpreting scripture: When interpreting scripture, it's crucial to maintain accountability and avoid using it to manipulate or control others. This involves recognizing one's own biases and limitations, and being open to correction and alternative perspectives. It also means applying scripture consistently and fairly, rather than selectively using it to justify one's own actions or condemn others. * (13:53) The importance of original text: Studying the original text of scripture can provide deeper insights into the intended meaning and nuances of the message. The original text was written to be very specific and literal. It can reveal the specific and intentional wording used by the authors, which can be lost in translation. * (20:17) Misinterpretation of prayer: The concept of asking in Jesus' name is often misinterpreted to mean that God will grant any request made with that phrase. However, the Bible indicates that there are criteria for answered prayer, including glorifying God, bearing fruit, and experiencing fullness of joy. Prayer should be rooted in a relationship with God, not just a means to get what we want. * (30:19) Temptation and God's provision: The saying "God won't give you more than you can handle" is a misinterpretation of 1 Corinthians 10:13, which actually states that God will provide a way of escape from temptation. This means that when faced with trials and tribulations, believers should rely on Christ for strength and guidance, rather than trying to overcome them on their own. Temptation itself is not a sin, but succumbing to it is. Youtube License Code WIFUUA4QSULIRN3F Website https://thefoundationhangout.transistor.fm/ [https://thefoundationhangout.transistor.fm/] Redbubble Store PastorBrianB.redbubble.com Teepublic Store http://tee.pub/lic/thefoundationhangout [http://tee.pub/lic/thefoundationhangout]

Ep 42. Misusing the Word of God: Special Guest Skip Cherryholmes

About the Podcast  In this episode of The Foundation Hangout, Pastor Brian and special guest Skip Cherryholmes discuss the misuse and misunderstanding of scripture. They explore how both the lost and the saved can misinterpret scripture and miss its intended purpose in life. They emphasize the importance of humility and proper context when interpreting the Bible. Key Takeaways * (00:04:55) Misusing Scripture as an Excuse: Many Christians use the literal writing of scripture as an excuse to see what they can get away with, assuming that if something isn't explicitly forbidden, it's permissible. This approach contradicts the intent of the heart emphasized in the Sermon on the Mount. New believers, especially those without strong Christian upbringing, may struggle with surrendering certain habits or desires, seeking to excuse them if not directly addressed in scripture. * (00:08:00) Judging Others and Hypocrisy: The passage "judge not, lest you be judged" is often misused to discourage any form of judgment. However, the scripture actually warns against hypocritical judgment, where one is quick to condemn others for flaws they themselves possess. It calls for self-reflection and addressing one's own shortcomings before pointing out the faults of others, ensuring a fair and consistent standard of judgment. * (00:11:14) Humility in Approaching Scripture: Approaching scripture with humility is crucial for proper understanding and application. Without humility, one is likely to misinterpret or miss the true meaning of the text. Being open to correction and willing to be called out allows for growth in righteousness and alignment with God's will, rather than seeking superiority over others. * (00:15:19) Personal Comfort vs. Growth: Society's emphasis on personal comfort makes it challenging to help individuals grow in Christ. Maintaining a relationship with Christ can be uncomfortable, especially in the beginning stages, as it requires confronting and changing undesirable behaviors and beliefs. Embracing discomfort through scripture and a walk with Christ is essential for spiritual growth, though it's not a popular sentiment in today's culture. * (00:20:14) Satan's Tactics and Misinterpretation: When discipling someone, be aware that the adversary will try to present counter opinions to scripture, which may seem more appealing to those new in faith. Satan may use misinterpretations of scripture to convince people that it's not trustworthy. For example, the Bible describes things that happened, like slavery, but that doesn't mean the Bible prescribes the behavior. * (00:25:57) God's Character and Revelation: Reading the Bible from cover to cover reveals God's character, not just isolated incidents. God doesn't approve of everything that is written in the Bible. The events that are written are due to the sin in the world. Wisdom is referenced as a woman in the book of Proverbs, which shows that the Bible is not misogynistic. YouTube License Code LNOUIQRTFFRALCLV Website https://thefoundationhangout.transistor.fm/ [https://thefoundationhangout.transistor.fm/] Redbubble Store PastorBrianB.redbubble.com Teepublic Store http://tee.pub/lic/thefoundationhangout [http://tee.pub/lic/thefoundationhangout] Hey Everybody Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/1muCUPES72xKKIgO6qovNg?si=cad00142494e49dd

Ep 41. How do we forgive those who wont ask for it?

About the Podcast  In this episode of The Foundation Hangout, Pastor Brian and Savannah discuss the topic of forgiveness, specifically focusing on how to forgive those who do not ask for forgiveness or do not think they have done anything wrong. They explore biblical perspectives and personal experiences to provide guidance on extending forgiveness and showing the love of Christ. Key Takeaways  * (00:00) Forgiveness without Repentance: Jesus teaches that we should be willing to forgive an innumerable amount of times, reflecting God's unlimited forgiveness towards us. While it's important to forgive, it may also be necessary to create distance from those who continually wrong us to protect ourselves. The act of forgiving someone who doesn't seek it is about showing the love of Christ and entrusting the situation to God. * (05:54) Mercy and Forgiveness: The Bible emphasizes the importance of showing mercy to others, as those who show no mercy will not obtain it when they need it. Forgiveness should come from a genuine place in the heart, mirroring the forgiveness we receive from God. Forgiving others, even when they don't repent, demonstrates the love of Christ and allows God to work in the situation. * (09:47) Love and Forgiveness: Forgiveness is a product of loving someone, even if you don't like what they did. It's about prioritizing your relationship with God over the hurt caused by others. By forgiving, you give the situation to God and allow Him to work in both your life and the life of the person who wronged you. * (11:51) Personal Walk with Christ: The ability to forgive and move on is a part of one's personal walk and relationship with Christ. Pride and selfishness can hinder forgiveness, while humility allows us to see the situation from God's perspective. Forgiveness is not about condoning the wrong but about releasing the bitterness and allowing God to work. * (12:43) Examples of Forgiveness: Jesus pleaded for the forgiveness of those who crucified Him, and Stephen asked God to forgive those who stoned him, demonstrating forgiveness even when the wrongdoers did not seek it. These examples show the importance of showing love and forgiveness, even to those who may be ignorant of their sin. * (20:12) Practical Steps to Forgiveness: To forgive someone who hasn't asked for it, lean on God, pray for understanding, and ask for help to forgive. Recognize that holding onto bitterness affects your relationship with God and others. Surrender control to the Lord and trust that He will work in the situation. * (31:58) Love Your Enemies: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you. This is an act of forgiveness. By loving and forgiving our enemies, we show them the love of Christ and give them over to the Holy Spirit, allowing God to work in their lives. * (33:56) Be Merciful: Be merciful, just as your Father in heaven is merciful. Extending forgiveness and grace shows our relationship with Christ. By forgiving those who don't ask for it, we glorify God and grow closer to Him. It's about God, not about us. * (35:07) Die to Self: Forgiving those who don't ask for forgiveness is a way to die to ourselves and our fleshly desires. Holding onto bitterness is a fleshly desire that is not of the Spirit of God. By forgiving, we break down barriers between ourselves and God and allow Him to work in our lives. * (38:40) Ultimate Goal: Reconciliation: While seeking reconciliation is important, we should still forgive even when the other person doesn't repent. By forgiving, we show them the love of Christ and leave the rest up to God. Give the hardship to God, as He knows best and will take care of it. Youtube code 9XT2MN0SDIUR1Q6H Website ⁠https://thefoundationhangout.transistor.fm/⁠ [https://thefoundationhangout.transistor.fm/] Redbubble Store https://www.redbubble.com/people/PastorBrianB/shop Teepublic Store ⁠http://tee.pub/lic/thefoundationhangout⁠ [http://tee.pub/lic/thefoundationhangout]

Ep. 40 Drowning out God's voice with Self-Righteousness

About the Podcast  In this episode of The Foundation Hangout, Pastor Brian and Savannah discuss how to overcome drowning out God's voice with self-righteousness. They use the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector from Luke 18:9-14 to illustrate the dangers of pride and self-sufficiency. They emphasize the importance of humility, focusing on Christ, and staying grounded in scripture to maintain a right relationship with God. Key Takeaways * (00:58) Pride Prevents Hearing God: Pride is identified as the primary obstacle to hearing God's voice, leading to self-righteousness. Even Christians can fall into the trap of taking credit for things that are ultimately God's work. Self-sufficiency, thinking we have everything figured out, causes us to rely on our own efforts instead of God's mercy. * (06:51) Works Do Not Equal Righteousness: The Pharisee's boasting about fasting and tithing highlights the misconception that works make us righteous. Righteousness comes from Jesus Christ, not from our own efforts. Jesus came to show that while the law reveals God's character, it cannot be perfectly obeyed, and righteousness is a gift from God through faith. * (13:59) Humility and Focus on God: Overcoming self-righteousness requires humility and shifting the focus from ourselves to God. Like the tax collector, we should acknowledge our sinfulness and rely on God's mercy. Jesus said that apart from Him, we can do nothing, so maintaining humility involves recognizing our dependence on God. * (16:51) Staying Grounded in Scripture: Studying scripture is essential for hearing God's voice and maintaining humility. While reading the Bible is important, it should be done with spiritual discernment and a focus on retaining and applying the information. Overstudying without retention or failing to implement the teachings in daily life can be counterproductive. * (22:05) Prayer and Listening: Prayer and listening are crucial for hearing God's voice. While God can speak audibly, He typically speaks through scripture, aligning our thoughts with His word. Seeking accountability from others can also help us stay focused on God and avoid self-righteousness. * (27:48) Love and Humility: Love for others, exemplified by Jesus' sacrifice, helps us maintain humility. Jesus gave up everything for us, and remembering this should inspire us to be humble and recognize that everything we are able to do is because of Him. We should ask God to be merciful to us, acknowledging that we don't deserve His grace. * (32:02) Final Thoughts: Dependence on Christ: Final thoughts emphasize that we are all sinners in need of a Savior and should love our neighbors. Remembering that apart from Christ, we can do nothing helps us lean on God for everything and hear His voice more clearly. The Holy Spirit compels us to do things that align with the word of God. Youtube Code for episode FTKFWFZEZA0ESE1P Website https://thefoundationhangout.transistor.fm/ [https://thefoundationhangout.transistor.fm/] Redbubble Store PastorBrianB.redbubble.com Teepublic Store http://tee.pub/lic/thefoundationhangout [http://tee.pub/lic/thefoundationhangout]