Work and Rest: A Biblical Balance

Self-Denial and Following Christ

Jesus calls His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow Him. In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins explains Luke 9:23-24 and shows why self-denial is an essential part of Christian discipleship. This episode clarifies what self-denial is and what it is not. Rather than rejecting God's good gifts, self-denial means refusing to place our desires above God's will and submitting every area of life to the authority of Jesus Christ. As Jesus teaches, true life is not found through self-rule or self-expression, but through surrender to Him. Christians discover lasting freedom, purpose, and joy when they follow Christ and trust His Word. For more episodes of Contending for the Word Q&A, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-qa/

Identity in Christ Alone

One of the most common messages in modern culture is this: follow your desires, look within, and define yourself according to your feelings. But Scripture presents a very different foundation for identity. In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins examines what the Bible teaches about identity and explains why our identity is ultimately found in Christ alone. Looking at 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Luke 9:23, this message explores the relationship between identity, desires, discipleship, and union with Christ. Christians are not defined by their struggles, feelings, or desires. Through faith in Christ, believers become new creations and receive a secure identity grounded in God's grace and redemption. In a culture searching for meaning and belonging, the gospel points us to the lasting hope and stability found in Christ alone. For more from Contending for the Word Q&A, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-qa/

God’s Design Is Good

In this weekend reflection from Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins explains why God's design for humanity, marriage, sexuality, and relationships is good. Looking at Genesis 1:31, this episode reminds believers that God's commands are not barriers to joy but guides that lead to life and flourishing. Even in a fallen world distorted by sin, the gospel offers hope through Jesus Christ, who restores what sin has broken and is making all things new. For more episodes of Contending for the Word Q&A, visit https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-qa/

Sin Promises Freedom but Produces Bondage

In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins explains why sin always presents itself as freedom while ultimately producing bondage. Drawing from Genesis 3 and John 8, Dave shows how temptation challenges God's authority, why sin never delivers what it promises, and how true freedom is found only in Jesus Christ. Learn why obedience to God leads to life, why sin leads to slavery, and how the gospel provides lasting freedom from guilt, shame, and the power of sin. For more episodes of Contending for the Word Q&A, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-qa/

Your Body Belongs to God

In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins explains what Scripture teaches about the Christian body, holiness, and belonging to God. Drawing from Genesis 1 and 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, Dave shows that believers were created by God, redeemed by Christ, and indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Because Christians belong to the Lord, the body is not for self-rule or self-expression alone, but for glorifying God in every area of life. Listeners will learn how biblical truth about creation, redemption, and holiness shapes Christian identity, sexuality, and daily living. For more episodes of Contending for the Word Q&A and additional biblical resources, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-qa/