675// Did Jesus Have Temper Tantrums? The Truth About Empty Religion: Mark 11:12-33 In this episode, take a look at an often misunderstood scene in Mark’s Gospel—Jesus cursing the fig tree and His bold cleansing of the temple. We’ll explore the deeper meaning behind these actions and how they expose fruitless faith and broken religious systems. Discover why Jesus didn’t just cleanse the temple but condemned its entire operation and how this applies to the way we practice faith today. We also loo...
Oct 21, 2024•26 min•Ep. 675
674// Jesus Isn’t Running for Office: Why Politics Can’t Save Us: Mark 11:1-11 In this episode, we explore the significance behind Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, a moment celebrated by the crowds yet misunderstood at its core. Journey with us through Mark 11:1–11 as we unpack the cultural, prophetic, and spiritual meaning of this moment. Why did Jesus ride a colt? What did the people expect from Him? And how do we respond when God’s plans don’t align with our expectations? What is the connection t...
Oct 18, 2024•30 min•Ep. 674
673// Why Do Celebrity Pastors Keep Falling? The Real Call of Jesus in a World Obsessed with Influence: Mark 10:32-45 How does Jesus define greatness? What does He call us to lay down? Join Rachael as she talks about the connection between some of the disciples' attitudes and the news cycles we can’t seem to escape. Key Takeaways: • Jesus’ leadership is rooted in service, not power. • Ambition in the church can distract from true discipleship. • The healing of Bartimaeus reveals the importance o...
Oct 17, 2024•30 min•Ep. 673
672// Why Being Good Isn't Good Enough: The Truth in Mark 10 In this episode, we discuss a conversation with Jesus that can sometimes be pretty challenging to hear. He meets a rich young man eager to inherit eternal life. When Jesus responds by asking him to sell all he has and give to the poor, the man walks away sorrowfully. Why is it so difficult for the rich to enter the kingdom of God? What does this passage teach us about wealth, sacrifice, and true discipleship? Join us as we unpack the l...
Oct 16, 2024•27 min•Ep. 672
671// Is Divorce A Sin? The Answer May Surprise You In this episode, we dive into Mark 10:1-16, where Jesus addresses the difficult topic of divorce, marriage, and what it means to approach the Kingdom of God like a child. In response to the Pharisees' trap regarding the legality of divorce, Jesus challenges the very foundation of their question by focusing on God’s original intent for marriage. He also emphasizes the importance of caring for children, showing that the Kingdom of God belongs to ...
Oct 15, 2024•34 min•Ep. 671
670// Are You Running a Race or On A Treadmill? How To Move Forward In Your Faith In this episode, host Rachael interviews Tarn Cross, whose passion for the Great Commission and mobilizing the church is contagious. Tarn shares her experiences serving in Uganda and discusses the importance of stepping out of the four walls of the church to reach the lost. She also talks about the use of spiritual gifts, particularly the prophetic, and emphasizes the need for obedience and faith in operating in th...
Oct 14, 2024•33 min•Ep. 670
669// Understanding True Greatness: Lessons from Mark 9:30-50 In today’s episode, we explore Mark 9:30-50, where Jesus redefines greatness in the Kingdom of God. The disciples argue about who among them is the greatest, but Jesus flips the script by teaching that true greatness comes from humility, service, and caring for the least among us. We also unpack Jesus’ warnings about leading others into sin and the radical call to remove anything in our lives that causes us to stumble. This passage ch...
Oct 11, 2024•28 min•Ep. 669
668// When Faith Feels Fragile: A Story of Desperate Prayer in Mark 9:14-29 In this episode, we examine Mark 9:14-29, where Jesus heals a boy possessed by an unclean spirit after His disciples fail to do so. The passage highlights themes of faith, doubt, and the power of prayer. We’ll explore the father’s poignant cry, “I believe; help my unbelief!” and what it means for us when we struggle with doubt. Jesus shows that nothing is impossible for those who have faith, but He also emphasizes the im...
Oct 10, 2024•30 min•Ep. 668
667// Mountaintop Moments: Witnessing Jesus’ Transfiguration and What It Means for Us in Mark 9:2-13 Today’s episode delves into the awe-inspiring account of the Transfiguration found in Mark 9:2-13. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain, where He is transfigured before them in radiant glory, speaking with Moses and Elijah. This moment provides a stunning revelation of Jesus’ divine nature, but it also comes with a reminder that glory follows suffering. We’ll explore the signific...
Oct 09, 2024•30 min•Ep. 667
In this episode, we focus on one of the most pivotal moments in the Gospel of Mark—Peter’s confession that Jesus is the Christ, and Jesus’ startling revelation of the suffering and death He must endure. Mark 8:27-9:1 presents the tension between human expectations of a triumphant Messiah and the reality of the suffering servant Jesus came to be. We’ll explore the cultural backdrop of the Messiah figure in Jewish thought, Peter’s partial understanding, and how Jesus patiently leads His disciples ...
Oct 08, 2024•28 min•Ep. 665
664// Spiritual Vision and Provision: Insights from Jesus' Miracles in Mark 8: 1-26 In today’s episode, we explore Mark 8:22-26, where Jesus heals a blind man in Bethsaida through a two-stage miracle. This unique account showcases Jesus’ ability to heal even the most difficult cases, but also carries a deeper meaning. Just as the man’s physical sight was restored gradually, the disciples’ spiritual sight needed time to develop. We dive into the significance of this miracle, Jesus’ interactions w...
Oct 07, 2024•28 min•Ep. 664
In this conversation, Rachael Groll and Lysa TerKeurst talk about the topic of trust, especially when it comes to the area of betrayal. Rachael and Lysa talk about the end of friendships, church hurt, and everything in between. Lysa shares some personal experiences and together, they highlight hope that comes from Jesus. ☆ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON ☆ : patreon.com/HearingJesus If you would like to give to Hearing Jesus and financially support the podcast, you can do so here ! ➤ Give Here ________...
Oct 04, 2024•38 min•Ep. 663
In today’s episode, Rachael talks about what it means to be spiritually deaf and mute. Talking through Scripture and personal experiences, she reveals how God speaks to each of us in a way we can understand. When Jesus is present, there is evidence of His presence. This is a powerful episode you are not going to want to miss! ☆ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON ☆ : patreon.com/HearingJesus If you would like to give to Hearing Jesus and financially support the podcast, you can do so here ! ➤ Give Here ___...
Oct 03, 2024•27 min•Ep. 662
In this episode, Rachael explores Mark Chapter Seven, focusing on the conflict between Jesus and the Pharisees regarding traditions and purity laws. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the heart behind the rules and how traditions can sometimes become barriers to faith. Rachael shares personal anecdotes from her outreach ministry, highlighting the need for acceptance and love in the church, especially towards those who may not conform to traditional expectations. The discussion encour...
Oct 02, 2024•22 min•Ep. 661
In this episode, Rachael explored the concluding stories of Mark chapter 6, focusing on the miracles of Jesus, including the feeding of the 5000 and His walking on water. She emphasizes the themes of compassion, spiritual growth, and the recognition of Jesus' divine identity. The discussion highlights the disciples' struggles to understand Jesus' miracles and the importance of recognizing God's provision and abundance in our lives. ☆ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON ☆ : patreon.com/HearingJesus If you w...
Oct 01, 2024•20 min•Ep. 660
In today’s devotional Bible Study episode, Rachael teaches through the commissioning of the disciples to go out two by two to preach the gospel, heal the sick, and deliver people from demonic influences. We see the disciples going out, as well as coming back to describe their experiences to Jesus. In between these two scenes, we see the story of the end of life of John the Baptist, which foreshadows what will eventually happen to Jesus and the disciples. Mark is intentional by combining these sc...
Sep 30, 2024•23 min•Ep. 659
In today’s devotional Bible study episode, Rachael discusses what happens when Jesus goes back to his hometown. The reality is, Jesus is not always welcome everywhere. The same thing is true today. In this episode, we can gain some encouragement on how to handle similar situations in our own lives. ☆ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON ☆ : patreon.com/HearingJesus If you would like to give to Hearing Jesus and financially support the podcast, you can do so here ! ➤ Give Here _______________________________...
Sep 27, 2024•22 min•Ep. 658
In this episode, Rachael explores Mark Chapter 5, focusing on the healing of a woman with a long-term illness and the resurrection of Jairus' daughter. The discussion emphasizes themes of faith, desperation, and the power of Jesus to heal and restore. Rachael highlights the importance of recognizing our moments of desperation as opportunities for God to intervene and the necessity of faith in trusting God's timing and purpose. The chapter illustrates the contrast between welcoming Jesus and reje...
Sep 26, 2024•23 min•Ep. 657
In this episode, Rachael explores the beginning of Mark chapter five, focusing on the story of the demon-possessed man. She discusses the nature of demonic possession, the cultural significance of the pigs, and the reactions of the people to Jesus' miracles. Rachael also emphasizes the importance of addressing underlying systems of sin rather than just the symptoms, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own lives and the presence of Jesus. ☆ SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON ☆ : patreon.com/HearingJe...
Sep 25, 2024•27 min•Ep. 656
In this episode, Rachael finishes up Mark chapter 4, focusing on the story of Jesus calming the storm. She discusses the disciples' fear and lack of faith, emphasizing Jesus' power over nature and the importance of having faith amidst life's storms. The conversation highlights the relationship between faith and miracles, encouraging listeners to seek a deeper relationship with God rather than merely chasing miracles. Show Sponsor Partnership Information: To Sponsor a Child through Compassion Int...
Sep 24, 2024•18 min•Ep. 655
In this episode of the Hearing Jesus podcast, Rachael continues the Bible Study devotional of Mark chapter four, exploring the teachings of Jesus through the lens of parables. She emphasizes the importance of sharing the wisdom of God's word, the slow process of spiritual growth, and the significance of faith as a seed that grows over time. Rachael uses relatable metaphors, such as the lamp on a stand and the mustard seed, to illustrate how faith and understanding can develop and flourish in our...
Sep 23, 2024•25 min•Ep. 654
In today’s episode, Rachael shares her experiences from two recent mission trips, emphasizing the importance of relationship-building in missions, the philosophy of Compassion International, and the need to address both physical and spiritual poverty. She reflects on her personal journey, the significance of being known by God, and the call to action for the church to open its eyes to global needs. Show Sponsor Partnership Information: To Sponsor a Child through Compassion International: Compass...
Sep 20, 2024•47 min•Ep. 653
In this episode, Rachael explores Mark chapter four, focusing on the parable of the sower and the significance of truly hearing God's word. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the different types of soil that represent the condition of our hearts and how they affect our ability to receive and act on God's teachings. The conversation highlights the ongoing nature of hearing Jesus and encourages listeners to cultivate a heart ready for spiritual growth. Show Sponsor Partnership Informat...
Sep 19, 2024•20 min•Ep. 652
In this episode of the Hearing Jesus podcast, Rachael Groll finishes up Mark chapter three, discussing the growing crowds around Jesus, the accusations against him, and the implications of family and discipleship in the context of faith. She emphasizes the importance of understanding Jesus' authority, the cost of following him, and the comfort found in the body of Christ for those who may feel isolated due to their faith. Show Sponsor Partnership Information: To Sponsor a Child through Compassio...
Sep 18, 2024•22 min•Ep. 651
In today's devotional Bible Study, Rachael discusses the topic of healing that we see in the Gospel of Mark. She discusses the theological implications of healing, the nature of faith, and the role of discipleship in the ministry of healing. Healing is a current reality and not just a historical event, and Rachael shares personal experiences and addresses common misconceptions about healing and sin. The conversation also explores the importance of understanding the character of God and the role ...
Sep 17, 2024•33 min•Ep. 650
In this episode, Rachael continues her series on the Gospel of Mark, focusing on Jesus’ view on the sabbath principle and how the religious leaders got it wrong. Rachael also emphasizes the importance of valuing human relationships over religious rules. Show Sponsor Partnership Information: To Sponsor a Child through Compassion International: Compassion.com/hearingjesus Or Text HEARINGJESUS to 83393 Additional Resources: For ad-free content, family discussion guides, journaling worksheets, bonus...
Sep 16, 2024•27 min•Ep. 649
648// From Spiritual Poverty to Hope and Purpose: How God Redeemed A Legacy of Witchcraft, Drugs, Violence, and Gangs Through the Power of the Gospel In this conversation, Rachael interviews Jonathan Almonte, who shares his powerful testimony of growing up in poverty in the Dominican Republic. Jonathan's grandparents were witchcraft priests, and he grew up in a ghetto surrounded by drugs, prostitution, violence, and gangs. He faced spiritual poverty and physical poverty, including hunger and lac...
Sep 13, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 648
647// I Am No Longer Who I Was: Mark 2:13-17 In this episode, Rachael continues the Gospel of Mark series and focuses on the passage where Jesus calls Levi (later known as Matthew) to follow him and then travels to eat at his house. This passage highlights Jesus' willingness to associate with sinners and outcasts, challenging the religious leaders of the time. Rachael explores the background of Levi as a tax collector and the societal implications of his occupation. She emphasizes the transforma...
Sep 12, 2024•17 min•Ep. 647
646// Dealing With the Religious Spirit: Mark 2:1-12 In today’s devotional Bible study, Rachael highlights the radical nature of Jesus. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical context and cultural nuances of the Bible to fully grasp its meaning. The passage focuses on the story of a paralyzed man who is brought to Jesus by his friends. Jesus forgives the man's sins and then heals him, which upsets the religious leaders. Rachael discusses the concept of a religious spirit an...
Sep 11, 2024•26 min•Ep. 646
645// Is Sin Contagious? Devotional Bible Study on Mark 1:29-45 In today’s devotional Bible Study episode, Rachael talks about the need for intentional prayer in our lives. She also explores the idea of the contagiousness of sin and the impact that may have on our lives. This is a super interesting episode that helps some powerful truths from the Gospel of Mark. Show Sponsor Partnership Information: To Sponsor a Child through Compassion International: Compassion.com/hearingjesus Or Text HEARINGJ...
Sep 10, 2024•25 min•Ep. 645
