In this episode, Brenton, Jeremiah, Nate, and Kacey discuss their sermons from John 4. The conversation centers around the story of the official found in this passage, exploring themes of faith, belief, and trusting in Jesus’ promises. They share insights about the difference between believing about Jesus and believing in Him, emphasizing the importance of a personal relationship with Christ. They reflect on how faith grows through community, Scripture, and action. Email us at further@harmonybib...
Nov 27, 2024•23 min•Season 2Ep. 14
In this episode, Brenton and Chris dive deep into the call to proclaim Jesus and the significance of genuinely living out faith. Chris unpacks a strong statement from his recent sermon, tying it to scripture and our natural tendency to share what we cherish most. The conversation explores practical ways believers can embrace evangelism and discipleship without overcomplicating the process. They also introduce the church's new All In initiative, focusing on making disciples and addressing consume...
Nov 20, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 13
In this episode, Chris and Brenton delve into the significance of crossing cultural and societal boundaries, inspired by Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman in John 4. They discuss how the gospel breaks down barriers and how the church can learn from Jesus' example of embracing diversity and reaching those who may be marginalized. Chris shares insights on how subtle biases, such as racism or cultural hesitations, can prevent meaningful connections. They also touch on the modern church’s ...
Nov 13, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 12
In this bonus episode, Brenton and Chris dive into the challenges of voting with integrity and navigating political differences as Christians. They talk about the importance of nuance, especially when discussing sensitive topics like abortion, and how both sides of an issue can still be flawed. The hosts also reflect on keeping unity in the church even when members vote differently. They emphasize focusing on the gospel above politics and trusting God’s sovereignty regardless of election outcome...
Oct 31, 2024•58 min•Season 2Ep. 11
In this episode, Chris and Brenton talk about how shame and pride affect how we see ourselves and others. They discuss the importance of finding our identity in Christ rather than through self-justification. Chris shares personal insights on overcoming cynicism by understanding his past and how it shaped him. They also explore the idea of "putting off the old self" and "putting on the new self" from Ephesians. The episode wraps up with practical thoughts on embracing who God made us to be and re...
Oct 30, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 10
In this episode, Chris and Brenton discuss the meaning of God’s justice and why it can be hard for people to accept. They talk about the struggle between preaching grace and avoiding legalism, along with how condemnation still shows up in churches today. Chris shares insights on balancing truth and grace, using Jesus’ interactions as an example. They also touch on the importance of relationships in healing from legalistic backgrounds. The episode wraps up with a preview of next week’s topic on p...
Oct 23, 2024•36 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In this episode, Brenton and Chris dive into how believers can confidently share the gospel without watering down its message, balancing the need to be truthful while still being gracious. They discuss the difference in how Jesus addressed religious leaders versus everyday people, noting how he held teachers to higher standards. The conversation highlights that being born again leads to a changed life, but not a perfect one—believers will still struggle with sin and need to live in daily repenta...
Oct 16, 2024•31 min•Season 2Ep. 8
In this episode, Brenton and Matt discuss the misdirection of worship, highlighting how people can use it for their own gain or preferences instead of focusing on God. They reflect on Jesus' actions in the temple, emphasizing His righteous anger and the need for true worship that honors God. The conversation also explores zeal and when it can become sinful, along with how Jesus modeled genuine passion. They discuss the difference between temporary belief and authentic faith, noting that Jesus di...
Oct 09, 2024•28 min•Season 2Ep. 7
In this episode, Brenton and Chris talk about the differences between Protestant and Catholic beliefs, especially around faith and works. They dive into what real joy is and how it’s different from happiness. Chris explains how Christians can experience joy by focusing on God’s grace, even when life is tough. They also discuss how to engage with the world outside the church while being wise. Lastly, they answer a listener's question about living out faith in everyday situations. Email us at furt...
Oct 02, 2024•38 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this episode, Brenton, Chris, and Andrew dive into apologetics and how it relates to sharing the Christian faith. They discuss the importance of having answers to common objections but emphasize that arguments alone won’t change hearts. The conversation also touches on the role of the Holy Spirit in evangelism and how to effectively share the gospel. They explore different approaches, including relationships and street preaching, while recognizing cultural differences in how people receive th...
Sep 25, 2024•34 min•Season 2Ep. 5
In this episode, Brenton, Paul, and Matt talk about finding our identity in Christ and how to recognize when we're looking to other things for validation. They share personal stories about dealing with distractions and the importance of reflecting on what really matters. Paul explains how culture influences our sense of self and why it's easy to lose focus. They also discuss the role emotions play in helping us understand what we're putting our trust in. The episode ends with a reminder from Gal...
Sep 18, 2024•35 min•Season 2Ep. 4
In this episode, Brenton and Chris discuss why Jesus is considered the clearest way we know who God is. They talk about how people often misunderstand God’s grace and why we sometimes think others are beyond it. They also cover the idea of being saved by grace but thinking we have to become holy by our own efforts. Chris shares some Bible passages that have impacted him and explains how the Holy Spirit helps us grow. They end with a chat about our search for glory and what that means for believe...
Sep 11, 2024•36 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this episode, Brenton and Chris discuss his sermon from John 1:6-13. They spend the majority of the show talking about the doctrine of adoption. What is it? What are the benefits of it? What responsibilities does it come with? They wrap up by considering some common misconceptions about becoming a child of God and some practical advice for approaching someone who professes to be saved but shows no evidence. Email us at further@harmonybiblechurch.org If you have a question that you'd like to b...
Sep 04, 2024•36 min•Season 2Ep. 2
In this episode of Further , Brenton and Chris dive into the complex topic of the Trinity. They discuss various views on the Trinity, including tritheism, Arianism, and modalism, and how these differ from orthodox Christian beliefs. The conversation highlights why a correct understanding of the Trinity is crucial for grasping the core of Christian salvation. They also explore key biblical passages that support the doctrine of the Trinity. Finally, they touch on how the Trinity’s relational dynam...
Aug 28, 2024•43 min•Season 2Ep. 1
In this episode, part two of our series on lament, we're taking a more practical approach. Join us as we explore how to incorporate lament into our daily lives and lead our children through their own emotional struggles. Below are the resources mentioned: Dark Cloud, Deep Mercy Mark Vroegop A Praying Life Paul E. Miller Email us at further@harmonybiblechurch.org If you have a question that you'd like to be discussed on Further, send us an email at: ask@furtherpodcast.com Listen to last week's Se...
Aug 07, 2024•26 min•Season 1Ep. 73
In this special two-part episode of Further Brenton, Chris has two special guests joining them to discuss what is lamenting and how we apply this to our lives. Below are the resources mentioned: Dark Cloud, Deep Mercy Mark Vroegop A Praying Life Paul E. Miller Email us at further@harmonybiblechurch.org If you have a question that you'd like to be discussed on Further, send us an email at: ask@furtherpodcast.com Listen to last week's Sermon: Apple Podcasts Spotify Visit our church website at: har...
Jul 31, 2024•37 min•Season 1Ep. 72
In this episode, Brenton and Clay discuss his sermon from Esther 9-10. They begin by expanding on the quote he used from the Heidelberg Catechism and why we lack trust in God. They then explore some of his application points, such as corporate worship, Christian Community, personal worship, and family worship. This episode contains practical tips to help you reflect on God’s providence in your life. Below is a link to the book Clay referred to: Be Thou My Vision: A Liturgy for Daily Worship http...
Jul 03, 2024•32 min•Season 1Ep. 71
In this episode, Brenton and Chris discuss his sermon from Esther 8. They opened by discussing the fact that Xerxes could not revoke his decree. They then explore the parallel between this and God’s decree that leaves us guilty before him. Chris answers the question of why God can’t simply revoke his decree without a sacrifice. They end by discussing joy. Chris expands on his thought from Sunday that we should be sorrowful in our adversity but also rejoicing in our salvation. Reminder: Further w...
Jun 26, 2024•31 min•Season 1Ep. 70
In this episode, Brenton and Chris discuss his sermon from Esther 7. They begin by looking ahead to the upcoming sermon series and the reason for them. They consider the definition and purpose of worship. They then discuss many different facets of idolatry. Chris wraps up by telling his story about how he became a pastor and how we should stay in God’s purpose. Here is the book that Chris mentioned: Counterfeit Gods - Tim Keller: https://a.co/d/idlLTpe Email us at further@harmonybiblechurch.org ...
Jun 19, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 69
In this episode, Brenton and Chris discuss his sermon from Esther 6. They begin with a question about the royal attire that Xerxes gave Mordecai when he was honored. They spend the rest of the show discussing Haman’s pride and how we exhibit that same characteristic. Chris gives his thoughts on the idea of self-esteem and whether it’s an important topic to consider or not. He also talks about why pride is hard to spot in ourselves and how we can take steps to acknowledge it in the moment. They w...
Jun 12, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 68
In this episode, Chris, Nate, Matt, and Paul discuss the biblical story of Haman and the importance of humility and contentment in Christian life. The conversation highlights the role of community in spiritual growth and the need for honest self-reflection. They emphasize the concept of waiting on the Lord and relying on His guidance rather than taking matters into their own hands. The episode concludes with encouragement to live out these principles, drawing inspiration from the book of Esther....
Jun 05, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 67
In this episode, Brenton and Chris aimed to explore and expand upon the weekly sermons delivered at the church. In each episode, the hosts engage in thoughtful discussions that make the biblical teachings more accessible and practical for daily living. They tackle various themes, such as discerning God's will, the significance of community, and living out Christian values in a modern context. By providing deeper insights and real-life applications, Brenton and Chris help listeners connect more p...
May 29, 2024•33 min•Season 1Ep. 66
In this episode, Brenton, Christian Frey, Nathan Williams, and Jeremiah Landon discuss their sermons from Esther 3. They begin the show by discussing how it’s different to preach from a narrative passage rather than another type of scripture. They discuss the idea of coincidence and whether it is compatible with God’s providence. They then spend the rest of the episode considering lament. What is it, and why should we do it? Why has the Church been uncomfortable with it, and how can we begin to ...
May 22, 2024•39 min•Season 1Ep. 65
In this episode, Brenton and Chris discuss his sermon from Esther 2. Chris begins by discussing the role of Eunuchs in the Persian empire. They then discuss the role of God’s providence in light of human sin. They wrap up by discussing what our culture values and how they relate to the story of Xerxes. Email us at further@harmonybiblechurch.org If you have a question that you'd like to be discussed on Further, send us an email at: ask@furtherpodcast.com Listen to last week's Sermon: Apple Podcas...
May 15, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 64
In this episode, Brenton and Chris discuss his sermon from Esther 1. Chris begins by talking about why he chose Esther and what he’s hoping to communicate through this series. They consider the literary style of this book and how we should read different forms of scripture. Brenton explains the difference between providence and sovereignty. They also discuss what it looks like to take earthly powers too seriously. They wrap up by giving some resources that can be a companion to this series. Here...
May 08, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 63
In this episode, Brenton and Chris dialogue with Matt and Mike Shinn about the practical side of generosity. They begin by discussing some dangers that money can have in our lives. They give their thoughts on intentional financial planning. They cover topics like money in a marriage, debt, retirement, and budgeting. They also consider obstacles to generosity and how to deal with them. Email us at further@harmonybiblechurch.org If you have a question that you'd like to be discussed on Further, se...
May 01, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 62
In this episode, Brenton and Chris discuss his sermon from 2 Corinthians 9. Chris starts by giving advice to people who might find giving to be burdensome at first. They continue by discussing the role of both the individual in the church and the local church as an organization in generosity. They also consider who the recipients of our generosity should be. Should we give indiscriminately to both believers and non-believers? They wrap up by giving advice to married people when there is disagree...
Apr 24, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 61
In this episode, Brenton, Chris, and Brock Ita discuss generosity from a practical perspective. Brenton and Chris begin by providing some context around the Macedonian churches and why it was significant that they were continually giving to Paul’s mission. Brock then answers questions on the practical side of generosity, such as what holds most people back from giving their resources and what practical steps we can take to increase generosity. He wraps up with some advice for younger generations...
Apr 17, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 60
In this episode, Brenton and Chris discuss his sermon from 2 Corinthians 8:8-9. They begin by discussing why this topic is difficult for us to wrestle with, as well as how we can open our minds up to the truths of scripture as we go through this series. They consider what we should prioritize when giving and how we can find contentment. They then wrap up by talking about how we need to shift our focus to eternity instead of this life. Email us at further@harmonybiblechurch.org If you have a ques...
Apr 10, 2024•38 min•Season 1Ep. 59
In this episode, Brenton, Chris, and Paul Fischbach discuss his sermon from this past weekend on Luke 19:28-44. They begin by considering what stuck out to Paul as he prepared for the sermon and how a fresh look at a familiar story can bring new insights. They then discuss what Christ’s kingship over us actually means. They reflect on the idea of perceptual blindness and how it affects the church today. They close by talking through the history of what happened in A.D. 70 and the temple's destru...
Mar 27, 2024•30 min•Season 1Ep. 58
