What Faith Looks Like

Zebedee

In this episode of What Faith Looks Like, Paul reflects on the often-overlooked figure of Zebedee, the father of James and John. Though Scripture tells us little about him personally, a careful reading reveals a powerful picture of quiet, background faith. Zebedee supports his sons when they leave their family business to follow Jesus, absorbs the disruption and sacrifice that decision brings, and even continues on while his wife serves with Jesus’ traveling group. His story reminds us that much of God’s work depends on unseen believers who faithfully support and sustain others. Zebedee shows us that background faith is just as important and vital to the way we serve. Background faith is just as important and precious to God as a faith lived in the spotlight.

Aquila and Priscilla

In this episode of What Faith Looks Like, Paul turns to the remarkable partnership of Priscilla and Aquila—a married couple whose faith wasn’t passive or private, but active. Priscilla and Aquila give us examples of being committed to the work of the Lord. Their story shows us what it looks like when marriage becomes not just a personal relationship, but a shared mission rooted in devotion to Christ and willingness to serve wherever God calls. Paul traces their journey from tentmakers in Corinth, to missionary partners traveling with The Apostle Paul, to anchors of the early Christian community in Ephesus and Rome. They lengthened believers, and helped shape one of the great preachers of the early church, Apollos, by gently filling in his understanding of the gospel. Throughout moves, challenges, and constant change, Priscilla and Aquila remain steady, faithful, and united in purpose. Their example invites us to consider what faith in marriage can look like: mutual support, shared conviction, resilience through difficulty, and a partnership that places serving Christ at the center of life together.

Hananiah, Mishael, Azariah

In this episode of What Faith Looks Like, Paul revisits one of the most familiar Bible accounts—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Set in the brutal reality of exile, loss, and intense pressure to conform, this true story shows three faithful young men refusing to compromise their devotion to God, even when obedience means standing alone, defying the most powerful ruler in the world, and facing certain death. Their courage is not a loud faith, but their conviction is rooted deep in the trust of God. They affirm that God is able to save, yet they are equally prepared to remain faithful even if He does not. That “even if not” faith is at the heart of this episode. As Paul explores the background, and emotional reality of their situation, he reminds us that this story challenges grown-up disciples to consider what loyalty to God really looks like when obedience becomes costly.

Abigail

In this episode of What Faith Looks Like, Paul turns to the remarkable and deeply human story of Abigail. Abigail is shown in scripture as someone who shows us wisdom, courage, humility, and extraordinary faith. While living in a deeply flawed household and married to a harsh, foolish man, Abigail demonstrates clarity of judgment, moral strength, and trust in God at a critical moment. As David, angered and insulted, prepares to take vengeance into his own hands, Abigail steps forward with grace and boldness, taking responsibility, speaking truth with gentleness, and reminding David of God’s calling and purpose for his life. Her story shows us that faith sees clearly when others are blinded by pride, anger, or foolishness. Faith intervenes when harm is about to be done. Faith acts humbly, wisely, and courageously, trusting that God’s anointed will prevail and that God’s purposes will stand. Abigail’s example reminds us that a soft answer truly can turn away wrath, that wisdom grounded in faith can change the course of events, and that gentle conviction can prevent regret, restore perspective, and honor God even in messy and complicated circumstances.

Criminal

In this episode of What Faith Looks Like, Paul reflects on one of the most astonishing expressions of faith found anywhere in Scripture: the faith of the criminal crucified beside Jesus. As he hung dying, this man moved from mocking to deep reflection, confessing his guilt, recognizing Jesus’ innocence, and expressing remarkable trust in Christ’s identity, mission, resurrection, and coming Kingdom. In a single heartfelt plea: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” demonstrates his extraordinary understanding and belief, even in the midst of agony. His story reminds us that true faith begins with honesty before God, grows through understanding the gospel, and trusts completely in Jesus’ power to save, forgive, raise the dead, and welcome repentant sinners into God’s Kingdom. It shows us that it is never too late to turn to Christ, that hope is possible even at the point of death, and that faith clings to Jesus with confidence that He will return and reign as King.