Black Sheep Believers | EP 11 Holy Week Prayer

In this episode of the Black Sheep Believers podcast, Jess discusses the significance of Holy Week and explores its importance in the Christian faith. She provides a backstory of Jesus leading up to Palm Sunday and the events that transpire until Resurrection Sunday. The episode emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecies regarding Jesus and encourages listeners to reflect on the meaning of these events through prayer and contemplation.

Takeaways

Holy Week is a powerful time for reflection.
Understanding the backstory of Jesus enhances faith.
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week.
The Last Supper is a significant event during Holy Week.
Prophecies about Jesus were made hundreds of years prior.
Jesus' sacrifice was for the sins of the world.
Resurrection Sunday celebrates Jesus' victory over death.
Prayer and reflection are essential during Holy Week.
Fasting can be a meaningful practice during this time.
Celebrating Easter is a joyous occasion for believers.

Chapters

00:00 The Prophetic Nature of Holy Week
00:37 The Journey of Jesus
05:42 The Events of Holy Week
15:52 Reflection and Prayer
18:26 New Chapter
21:58 New Chapter 2
22:37 BSB Episode 10 - Outro.mp4

Black Sheep Believers | EP 10 Is God Talking to Me?

Is God talking to me? What other voices do we listen to? What can I do to hear from Him? These are just a few questions we ponder in this week's episode. We discuss the difference between new age and Spirit-filled mediation, what God's voice sounds like, and what we do to practice staying in flow with God.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context
00:48 Navigating Doubts and Frustrations in Faith
03:56 Understanding God's Voice
06:54 Discerning Between Voices
09:51 The Nature of God's Communication
12:52 The Role of Obedience in Hearing God
15:52 Silence and Solitude in Spiritual Practice
19:09 The Importance of Mindfulness in Prayer
21:50 The Garden of Eden: A Model for Unity
25:03 The Distinction Between Self and God-Centered Meditation
28:01 Recognizing Our Flaws and God's Goodness
30:51 Abiding in the Vine: A Continuous Relationship with God
32:59 The Challenge of Faith: Perceptions and Misconceptions
35:30 Navigating Polarizing Views in Christianity
38:32 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Our Lives
42:00 Personal Experiences: Trusting God in Difficult Times
47:15 The Power of Silence and Listening to God
50:59 Discernment: Knowing When to Speak and When to Be Silent
54:05 The Fruit of Abiding: Experiencing Peace and Hope
59:52 Gratitude: A Pathway to Hearing God
01:02:42 Closing Reflections and Prayer
01:04:28 BSB Episode 10 - Outro.mp4

Black Sheep Believers | EP9 For the Gen Z Girlies

In this episode, we engage in a heartfelt conversation aimed at Gen Z listeners, discussing this generation's unique perspectives and challenges. We explore the evolution of friendships into adulthood, the importance of reading the Bible with intention, and the dynamics of godly relationships and dating. Throughout the discussion, we emphasize the value of communication, authenticity, and spiritual growth while acknowledging the lessons learned from their experiences and those of younger generations.

Takeaways

The hosts strongly connect to Gen Z and aim to provide relatable advice.
Friendships evolve significantly from high school to adulthood, requiring new dynamics.
Reading the Bible can be approached in various ways, emphasizing personal connection.
Communication and respect are foundational in any relationship, especially in dating.
It's important to recognize the value of friendships across different life stages.
Spiritual growth often involves navigating difficult conversations and relationships.
Mistakes in relationships do not define one's worth or future.
Understanding the original context of the Bible can enhance comprehension and connection.
The hosts encourage vulnerability and honesty in friendships and relationships.
God's grace allows for redemption and growth, regardless of past decisions.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gen Z Conversations
05:25 Navigating Friendships in Different Life Stages
21:41 Reading the Bible: Personal Experiences and Insights
30:08 Deepening Spiritual Understanding
39:07 Navigating Godly Relationships
51:14 Embracing Redemption and Growth
01:00:02 BSB Episode 9 - Outro.mp4

Black Sheep Believers | EP9 Sharing Our Faith

In this episode, we explore the complexities of sharing faith and evangelism, discussing our personal experiences, definitions, and challenges in contemporary church settings. We emphasize the importance of understanding different perspectives on evangelism, the seeker-friendly approach, and the balance between truth and love in sharing faith. The conversation highlights the significance of discipleship, the long-term journey of faith, and the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding evangelistic efforts.

Takeaways

Sharing faith can be a complicated and nuanced topic.
Evangelism has evolved and can be perceived differently by individuals.
The seeker-friendly approach aims to make church accessible to newcomers.
Personal experiences shape how individuals view evangelism.
Discipleship is crucial for spiritual growth after accepting Jesus.
The church has hurt Many people, affecting their openness to faith.
Curiosity and genuine relationships are key in evangelism.
Truth and love must coexist in conversations about faith.
The journey of faith is often a long game, requiring patience.
It's important to rely on the Holy Spirit to guide sharing faith.

Chapters

00:00 The Role of Spiritual Formation
03:20 Navigating the Complexity of Evangelism
06:06 The Seeker-Friendly Church Movement
09:21 Experiences of Evangelism: Perspectives from Both Sides
11:57 The Need for Depth in Faith
15:01 Healing from Church Hurt
18:13 The Journey of Sharing Faith with the Wounded
21:13 The Importance of Continuous Learning in Faith
25:30 Embracing Differences on Jesus Street
28:42 The Power of Authentic Relationships
30:49 Truth in Love: The Balance of Evangelism
31:47 Listening to the Holy Spirit in Evangelism
37:57 Curiosity as a Tool for Connection
44:40 The Long Game of Faith
47:06 Overcoming Fear in Sharing Faith
51:08 The Journey of Discipleship and Evangelism
59:55 BSB Episode 8 - Outro.mp4

Black Sheep Believers | EP 7 Yap&Chat

In this episode of the Black Sheep Believers Podcast, we enjoyed a light-hearted yet profound conversation about friendship, personal growth, and self-discovery as we approach our 40s. We explore themes of dying to oneself, the importance of compassion and forgiveness, and embracing new habits and interests—a silly mix of humorous anecdotes and personal stories, creating a relatable and engaging atmosphere that we hope you enjoy, too!

Takeaways

The importance of light-hearted conversations in deep friendships.
Embracing the messy parts of life and relationships.
Dying to oneself is a continuous journey of self-discovery.
Contentment comes from obedience to one's calling.
Forgiveness is essential for personal peace and growth.
Navigating identity and worth beyond productivity.
Tension in life is necessary for growth and gratitude.
Personal stories can reveal deeper truths about family and identity.
New habits should focus on substance and joy, not just discipline.
It's okay to explore new interests without the pressure of perfection.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Lighthearted Banter
01:31 Exploring Wigs and Fun Wedding Traditions
04:38 Reflections on Aging and Life Transitions
12:30 Dying to Self and Embracing New Identities
17:37 Navigating Expectations and Finding Contentment
21:36 The Journey of Motherhood and Identity
28:20 Recalibrating Through Life Transitions
34:16 Embracing Tension and Growth
37:35 The Unconventional Family Story
39:30 Compassion and Forgiveness in Relationships
40:53 Practicing Mindfulness and Compassion
48:34 Discipline with Substance
52:49 Exploring Creativity and Personal Growth
56:36 Navigating Body Image and Health
01:02:38 Learning New Skills and Hobbies
01:07:38 Advice for the Next Decade
01:18:32 BSB Episode 7 - Outro.mp4

Yap&Chat with Coye! | Black Sheep Believers EP 5

In this episode, we sit down with our friend and consummate Bible-nerd Coye to explore her faith journey, the importance of family in shaping beliefs, and the challenges faced in life. We discuss the concept of surrendering to God's will, raising children in faith, and the empowerment found in understanding our identity in Christ. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media on faith, the significance of marriage in a spiritual context, and recent insights from the Bible that encourage a deeper relationship with God.

Takeaways

Coye's journey reflects the importance of mentorship in faith.
Understanding Jesus as a relationship rather than a religion is crucial.
Family dynamics play a significant role in shaping one's faith.
Surrendering to God's will can bring peace in difficult times.
Raising children in faith requires intentionality and openness.
Empowerment comes from knowing one's identity in Christ.
Social media can distract from spiritual growth and connection.
Marriage is a vital opportunity to serve and grow in faith together.
Conviction from God is a loving guidance, not a harsh judgment.
The journey of faith is ongoing and filled with learning opportunities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Koi's Journey
02:20 Early Experiences with Jesus
05:51 The Role of Family in Faith
08:17 Understanding Jesus as a Relationship
11:37 Navigating Life's Challenges with Faith
16:59 Gage's Cancer Journey
22:58 Surrendering to God's Will
23:24 Parenting and Faith
29:14 Empowerment as a Woman of Faith
32:14 Finding Peace in Solitude
34:55 The Power of Conviction
38:07 Navigating Marriage with Faith
40:47 The Role of Submission in Relationships
46:30 Empowerment Through Faith
54:12 Learning and Growing in the Word
01:01:44 BSB Episode 5 - Outro.mp4

Is God Real? | Black Sheep Believers EP 4

In this episode, we explore the profound question of God's existence, sharing personal experiences and insights on faith, doubt, and the nature of God. We discuss the importance of understanding the motives behind questions about faith, the power of pausing in conversations, and the complexities of human nature. The conversation delves into the role of scripture, the characteristics of Jesus, and the contrasting philosophies of Eastern and Western thought. Ultimately, we emphasize the significance of personal experience and comfort in a relationship with God.

Takeaways

The question of God's existence is layered and complex.
Personal experiences shape our understanding of faith.
It's important to understand the motives behind questions about God.
Pausing in conversations can lead to deeper understanding.
Doubt can be a pathway to stronger faith.
Human nature is complex, with both good and bad aspects.
Scripture plays a crucial role in understanding God.
Jesus embodies the characteristics of love, mercy, and forgiveness.
Salvation is a daily journey, not a one-time event.
Creating a safe space for questions about faith is essential.