What does it really mean to be saved and how can I be sure I am? | Ask A Pastor Ep. 10

Where Are You Rooted? (Luke 6:43-45)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/216325/fan_mail/new] Where Are You Rooted? | Hope Church Cleburne Sermon Podcast The fruit of your life is never an accident—it always grows from your roots. In this message from Luke 6:43-45, Pastor Todd explores one of Jesus' most powerful illustrations: a tree is known by its fruit. But before fruit ever appears, something much deeper is happening beneath the surface. The condition of our hearts, the source we draw from, and the stability of our spiritual roots all determine the kind of life we produce. Are you rooted in God's Word or the opinions of the world? Are you staying planted through difficult seasons, or allowing disappointment and offense to uproot your faith? And when life's storms come, what do they reveal about what's growing inside you? Through practical illustrations, biblical truth, and encouraging application, this sermon reminds us that God isn't just interested in changing our behavior—He wants to transform our hearts. Healthy roots lead to healthy fruit. If you've ever felt discouraged in your spiritual growth, struggled to stay grounded, or wondered why certain patterns keep appearing in your life, this message will challenge and encourage you to examine where you're truly rooted. Because the fruit everyone sees is determined by the roots nobody sees. Support the show [http://hopechurchcleburne.com/giving/]

How to Be Judgmental (Luke 6:37-42)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/216325/fan_mail/new] In a world where it’s easy to point out everyone else’s faults, Jesus calls us to something much harder—examining our own hearts first. In this Father’s Day message, we dive into Luke 6:37-42 and discover what Jesus really meant when He said, “Judge not.” Jesus isn’t condemning discernment; He’s confronting hypocrisy. Before we criticize others, we must allow God to deal with the areas of our own lives that need transformation. Through powerful illustrations and practical application, this message challenges fathers, leaders, and every believer to lead with humility, self-awareness, and grace. Join us as we explore three life-changing principles: • Judge yourself before you judge others. • Judge your vision before you lead. • Judge the log before the speck. Whether you’re a parent, spouse, leader, or simply seeking to follow Jesus more faithfully, this message will encourage you to remove the barriers that keep you from seeing clearly and help you become the kind of example others can follow. Transformation begins when we stop focusing on everyone else’s flaws and allow Jesus to transform us first. Support the show [http://hopechurchcleburne.com/giving/]

Why Do Bad Things Happen To Good People? | Ask A Pastor Ep. 12

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/216325/fan_mail/new] Why do bad things happen to good people? It's one of the most difficult and personal questions we face. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, a devastating diagnosis, a broken relationship, or an unexpected tragedy, suffering has a way of leaving us searching for answers. In this episode of *Ask A Pastor*, Pastor Todd explores what the Bible says about pain, suffering, and God's presence in the middle of life's hardest moments. Looking at passages from Romans, Job, John, James, and the life of Jesus Himself, we discover that while Scripture doesn't always give us a simple explanation for suffering, it does give us something better—a God who walks with us through it. Join us as we discuss why suffering exists in a fallen world, why not all suffering is punishment, how God can use pain to shape our faith, and the hope we have because of Christ's victory over death.  If you've ever wrestled with questions about suffering, this conversation will encourage you to trust God's character even when you don't understand His plans. We may not always know the reason for our suffering, but we can trust the God who walks with us through it. Support the show [http://hopechurchcleburne.com/giving/]

Love Without Limits (Luke 6:27-36)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/216325/fan_mail/new] Loving people who love you is easy. Loving people who hurt you is something else entirely. In this week's message from Luke 6, Pastor Todd explores one of the most challenging teachings of Jesus: "Love your enemies." In a world that tells us to get even, hold grudges, and only give to those who deserve it, Jesus calls His followers to live differently. Discover what it means to love beyond feelings, extend grace when it's undeserved, and show mercy the same way God has shown mercy to us. Jesus didn't just teach enemy-love—He demonstrated it on the cross, praying for those who mocked, rejected, and crucified Him. This message will challenge you to ask some important questions: Who do you need to love this week? Are you giving people what they deserve or what God gave you? And when people watch how you respond to those who hurt you, do they see the heart of your Heavenly Father? The family resemblance of a believer is mercy. When we love the way Jesus loves, we point people to Him. Listen now and learn how Kingdom love changes everything. Support the show [http://hopechurchcleburne.com/giving/]

Can Women Be Pastors? | Ask A Pastor Ep. 11

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/216325/fan_mail/new] Can women be pastors? It’s a question Christians have debated for generations, and one that often sparks strong opinions on both sides. In this episode of Ask A Pastor, Pastor Todd takes an honest, Scripture-centered look at one of the most discussed topics in the Church today. Starting with Pentecost and God’s promise to pour out His Spirit on “sons and daughters,” this episode explores what the Bible says about calling, spiritual gifts, leadership, and the role of women in ministry. From Deborah, Miriam, and Huldah in the Old Testament to Priscilla, Phoebe, Anna, and Junia in the New Testament, Pastor Todd examines the many women God used to lead, teach, prophesy, and advance His kingdom. What about the passages that seem to restrict women in ministry? How should we understand Paul’s words in 1 Timothy and 1 Corinthians? And what can we learn from the fruit of women who have faithfully served, preached, planted churches, and led others to Christ throughout church history? Whether you agree, disagree, or are still wrestling with the question, this conversation seeks to approach the topic with biblical integrity, humility, and a desire to follow wherever God leads. Join us as we explore what Scripture teaches about calling, gifting, and the work of the Holy Spirit—and ask an important question: If God has called someone, who are we to stand in the way? Support the show [http://hopechurchcleburne.com/giving/]