Overtime with Jim Putman

Made For These Days: Steward our Finances

In this episode of the Real Life Overtime Podcast, the teaching team dives deeper into the biblical principles of stewardship and generosity, exploring how these concepts connect to our calling in Christ. Anchored in Acts 17 and Matthew 25, the discussion focuses on how we, as individuals and as the body of Christ, are called to manage our resources—time, energy, and finances—for God’s purposes. The conversation highlights the spiritual discipline of tithing, the role of obedience, and the eternal impact of giving.

Whether you're wrestling with how to start tithing or seeking to deepen your understanding of biblical generosity, this episode is a practical and inspiring guide to aligning your heart with God's mission.

Key Topics Covered:

God’s Intentional Design for Our Time and Place:

• Acts 17 affirms that God placed us in this exact moment in history with specific purposes.
• Ephesians 2:10 reminds us that we were created for good works, individually and corporately, to reveal God’s wisdom and love to the world.
  Stewardship and Accountability:
• From Matthew 25, we learn that we are stewards, not owners, of everything we have.

Stewardship is about investing our God-given resources (time, talents, finances) in ways that honor Him and advance His kingdom.

Why God Speaks So Often About Money:

• Scripture addresses finances over 2,000 times because money is closely tied to our hearts (Exodus 20:3, Malachi 3).
• 
  The danger of idolizing wealth and possessions can lead us away from trusting God.

Tithing as a Discipline and a Test of Faith:

• Tithing is introduced before the Mosaic Law and affirmed throughout Scripture as a foundational act of obedience.
• Malachi 3 invites believers to “test” God in tithing, promising His provision and blessings.
• Tithing shifts our mindset from ownership to stewardship and cultivates a heart of generosity.

The Practical and Eternal Impact of Generosity:

• Generosity supports the church’s mission: feeding the hungry, equipping leaders, supporting global missions, and meeting community needs.
• Obedience in giving impacts not only our spiritual growth but also the lives of countless others through the body of Christ.

Reflection & Discussion Questions:

1. How does understanding that God placed you in this specific time and place shape your view of your role in His mission?
2. In what ways can tithing or practicing generosity help you grow in trust and obedience to God?
3. How can you identify and address areas where money or possessions may have become an idol in your life?
4. What is one practical step you can take this week to invest your resources (time, talents, or finances) for God’s kingdom?
5. How can you encourage your group or family to embrace a heart of generosity together?

This episode challenges us to live with eternity in mind, seeing our resources as tools to invest in God’s kingdom. Generosity isn’t just a command; it’s an invitation to experience God’s faithfulness and transform lives. As you reflect on today’s message, consider how your obedience in stewardship can impact your spiritual growth and the world around you.

Stay tuned for next week’s episode as we continue the series, Made for These Days!

Made for these Days: Steward Our Days

In this episode of the Real Life Overtime Podcast, the guys delve into the new series, "Made for These Days," which explores how we, as followers of Jesus, are called to live faithfully in the time and place God has placed us. With recent political events and heightened cultural tensions, this discussion emphasizes that our purpose remains rooted in Christ and His mission, regardless of the outcomes around us. The team discusses what it means to be stewards of the days we're given, specifically during divisive times, and how we can faithfully live out our role as kingdom-minded disciples.

Key Topics Discussed

1. Stewardship of Our Testimony, Finances, and Relationships
   The episode opens with the reminder that we are Christ’s masterpieces, called to manage what God has given us—including our testimony, finances, health, and hearts—in ways that reflect His love and truth. In this particular season, it’s crucial to evaluate how our lives represent the gospel in our community, workplace, and especially with friends and family who may have differing views.
2. Navigating Political Divides with Kingdom Focus
   As election results unfold, the team addresses how believers should interact with people of differing political opinions. The hosts warn against idolizing any political leader or party and instead challenge listeners to engage in conversations that are respectful and rooted in Christ’s teachings. They remind listeners that while we are called to participate in society, our ultimate allegiance is to Jesus, not political outcomes.
3. Building a Christ-Centered Nation vs. Cultural Conformity
   They explore the importance of keeping God’s truth at the center of our identity and ambitions for the country. They emphasize that true greatness for a nation begins with individual and collective faithfulness to biblical principles—values that include family integrity, respect for life, and dedication to compassionate service.
4. The Role of the Church in Shaping a Community
   Real Life Ministries’ commitment to community impact is highlighted, celebrating the many individuals who volunteer, lead small groups, and give generously. The church’s role in impacting local and global communities is reinforced by practical actions, such as Operation Christmas Child, which reflects the heart of the gospel through generosity and service.
5. Avoiding Distractions and Staying Mission-Focused
   In closing, the hosts encourage listeners to remain steadfast in their mission, even as cultural and political issues shift. They reference Hebrews 12, urging believers to “throw off everything that entangles” and to keep their focus on Jesus as they engage with the world. The Great Commission remains unchanged, calling the church to lead with love, unity, and the light of Christ.

Discussion Questions

1. What does it mean to be a faithful steward of the time, resources, and testimony God has given you in today’s cultural climate?
2. How can we engage in respectful, Christ-centered conversations with people who have different political views, especially within our families and church communities?
3. In what ways does focusing on Jesus help us avoid the pitfalls of political or cultural idolization?
4. How does your life in the community reflect the principles of God’s kingdom? Are there ways you could be more intentional about sharing His love and truth with others?
5. How can we, as a church, support each other in our collective mission to live out the Great Commission in the middle of societal challenges?

Next Steps

• Pray for Wisdom and Maturity: This week, spend time in prayer, asking God to help you navigate challenging conversations with grace and humility.
• Focus on Kingdom Impact: Look for opportunities to serve others in your community, especially those in need, as a way to demonstrate God’s love.
• Engage in Small Group Discussions: Share and discuss the content of this series with your small group, focusing on practical applications for living as a disciple today.
• Prepare for Next Week: Reflect on how you manage your financial resources as we prepare for next week’s discussion on stewardship of finances.

This episode reminds us that while we may live in uncertain times, we are firmly planted in God’s unchanging mission. Our calling as disciples of Jesus does not shift with politics or culture; we are here to be the light in the world, making a difference in our communities with grace, truth, and love. Join us next week as we continue this journey, exploring how to steward our finances in alignment with God’s purposes.

One: Maturity in Christ

In this closing episode of the “One” series, our teaching team reflects on what spiritual maturity looks like for individuals and the church community. They unpack the essence of growing in faith as part of the body of Christ, explaining how personal spiritual growth directly impacts the health and unity of the larger church. Throughout the discussion, they touch on the traits of mature disciples, the importance of deep relationships within the church, and the ripple effect of a committed, unified community. They also address why intentional, relational discipleship is vital for grounding future generations in faith.

Key Themes & Discussion Points
1. Marks of Spiritual Maturity

Love for Others: Genuine love for others, inspired by Christ’s love, is a foundational marker of spiritual maturity. Referencing 1 John 4, the speakers emphasize that love should reflect God's character and influence relationships within the church community.

o Hatred for Sin and True Repentance: Maturing believers actively turn from sin, developing a deeper understanding of repentance not just as turning away but as genuinely detesting sin.

o Hunger for God’s Word: In an age of widespread information, the team highlights the importance of pursuing God’s truth personally, rather than relying solely on commentaries or surface-level teachings.

2. "Then and Now" Analogy
o Reflecting on the journey from spiritual infancy to maturity, the team draws on the "then and now" analogy often seen on social media. Spiritual growth should be as noticeable as physical change over time, demonstrated in stronger, wiser relationships and a visible shift in character and wisdom.

3. The Challenge of Humility and Accountability
o Spiritual growth involves embracing feedback and not taking correction as a personal attack. Maturity means valuing correction, viewing it as a part of aligning oneself with Christ's image, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians.

4. Corporate Unity Depends on Individual Growth
o For the church to thrive, every believer must pursue personal growth. Without individual spiritual maturity, unity within the body of Christ suffers, impacting the church’s ability to represent God accurately to the world.

5. Relational Ropes and Resilience
o They talk about “relational ropes” as the strong connections within a church community that hold members together, especially during times of trial. True discipleship and maturity are marked by these close relationships, built through regular service, accountability, and life together in Christ.

6. Parenting in Faith: Creating Lasting Spiritual Roots
o The episode discusses the alarming trend of young people leaving the church, often because they were never fully integrated into the body of Christ. Parents are encouraged to be active, visible participants in the church so their children can experience a faith community deeply and authentically.

7. Serving as a Pathway to Growth
o Serving in the church isn’t limited to corporate, scheduled events. Every believer is called to meet needs in their everyday environment—whether by helping a neighbor or offering support to a struggling member. By taking on small acts of service, the church fulfills its mission to embody Christ in the world.

8. Building Resilient Families and Marriages
o The podcast underscores the role of strong marriages and families in a healthy church. Relational maturity, especially within marriage, is foundational and serves as a model for the next generation.

Reflection Questions
• In what ways have you seen spiritual growth in your own life? What are the visible “then and now” markers?
• How do you personally resist or embrace feedback that challenges you to grow in maturity?
• What are some “relational ropes” that keep you anchored in your faith community? How do these relationships support your spiritual growth?
• As a parent or role model, how can you help the younger generation build a deeper connection to the church community?
• Where is God calling you to serve within or beyond the walls of the church? How can you use your gifts to support others in faith?

Action Steps for Group Leaders
• Encourage Self-Reflection: Ask group members to identify areas in their lives where they’ve grown spiritually. Have them share stories that highlight these changes, providing an opportunity for encouragement and celebration.
• Create Accountability: Foster a culture of open feedback within the group. Encourage members to receive correction as a loving call to growth, helping to deepen trust and humility in your discussions.
• Foster Deep Connections: Build relational “ropes” by scheduling regular meet-ups outside of regular group times—meals, activities, or service projects that strengthen community bonds.
• Serve Together: Identify needs within the church or community that your group could meet together. Serving collectively not only strengthens relationships but also models a life of service to younger believers.

Final Encouragement
The journey of spiritual maturity is one of daily, intentional decisions that deepen our relationship with God and others. As disciples, we are called to be united in love, firmly rooted in truth, and resilient together. Let’s encourage each other to "grow up" in faith, actively contributing to a church community that supports, serves, and uplifts each other for the glory of God. Remember, our individual growth impacts the whole body, and together, we become a living testament of Christ’s love to the world.
 
Thank you for investing in your spiritual growth and in the lives of others! We look forward to starting our new series, "Made for These Days," next week.

 

One: Leadership

One: Leadership

"The Role of Leadership in God’s Design for the Church"

In this episode of the Overtime Podcast, we explore the topic of leadership within the Church, examining God’s plan for organized leadership as outlined in Ephesians 4. The conversation centers around why the Church needs structure, how leaders are meant to shepherd and equip believers, and how we can address the tension between embracing authority and dealing with past hurts from flawed leadership. This episode also discusses the calling and responsibility of leaders to serve humbly and lead by example, taking inspiration from Jesus as the ultimate model of servant leadership.

The Pastors dig deep into Scripture, sharing examples from both the Old and New Testaments. From Moses’ delegation of leadership roles to the apostles’ establishment of deacons in the early Church, this episode underscores the importance of structure in fostering unity and discipleship. The conversation is both challenging and encouraging, inviting listeners to reflect on their roles in the body of Christ, whether as leaders or followers.

Key Points:

1 God’s Plan for Leadership in the Church
• Leadership is essential for unity and growth within the Church, with Ephesians 4 highlighting the role of leaders in equipping believers for works of service.
• Organized leadership, modeled after biblical principles, helps maintain alignment and prevents chaos in the Church community.

2. Addressing Misgivings About Authority
• Many people struggle with the idea of leadership, especially those who have experienced poor leadership or abuse of authority. The episode acknowledges these challenges but emphasizes that God’s design for leadership isn’t the problem—rather, it’s the brokenness in people.
• The Pastors remind listeners that organized leadership is a necessary part of a healthy church and that submission to godly authority is a step of faith and humility.

3 Biblical Examples of Leadership Structure
• From Exodus 18, where Moses appointed leaders over groups of various sizes, to Acts 6, where the apostles assigned deacons to serve the community, the Bible provides a clear structure for organized leadership.
• These examples show that structured leadership is not only practical but divinely instituted for the well-being of God’s people.

4 Humility and Servant Leadership Modeled by Jesus
• Jesus, as the ultimate leader, demonstrated humility by submitting to authority, even as God incarnate, and by serving others.
• True Christian leadership reflects Jesus' example, focusing not on personal power but on uplifting and equipping others.

5 Spiritual Gifts and Roles in the Church
• Leaders are called to recognize and develop the spiritual gifts within the church community. Each believer is equipped with gifts meant to build up the Church, as outlined in Romans 12 and 1 Corinthians 12.
• Every member of the body has a role, whether they are called to lead or to serve in other capacities, and these gifts contribute to the overall unity and mission of the Church.

Reflection and Discussion Questions:
1 Reflect on your experiences with leadership. How have they shaped your view of authority in the Church?
2 How can you use your spiritual gifts to serve others in your community? Are there ways you can grow in using these gifts?
3 Why do you think God established organized leadership in the Church? How does it benefit the body of Christ?
4 What are some practical ways to submit to and support leaders in your church, even when it’s challenging?
5 How can we ensure that teachings and practices align with Scripture? What role does personal study and communal discernment play in this?

Action Steps:
• Pray for Your Leaders: 
• Serve in Your Gifted Area:
• Cultivate Discernment:
• Encourage Accountability: 

This episode provides a powerful reminder that leadership in the Church is God’s idea, not merely a human institution. As we seek to grow in maturity and unity, we’re called to support our leaders, embrace our roles in the body, and follow Christ’s example of humility and service. Whether in leadership or as a member of the Church, each of us plays a vital part in God’s plan to build His Church as a light to the world. Join us next week as we conclude this series by exploring what true spiritual maturity looks like in the life of a believer and the Church.

One: Hope

Welcome back to the Real Life Overtime Podcast, where we dive deeper into the weekend sermon and explore its relevance to our daily lives. Today, we're continuing our series, "One," focusing on unity in the body of Christ, as presented in Ephesians 4. Specifically, this episode centers around "One Hope"—the singular hope that unites us as believers, regardless of our diverse backgrounds and personal experiences.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Source of Our Hope
   The discussion opened with the reminder that our hope is not based on wishful thinking but on a confident expectation rooted in Jesus. This is not an individualized or circumstantial hope, but a shared hope in the person, work, and future promises of Christ.

   • Jesus is our Lord, Savior, and Provider, and His work on the cross secures our hope in eternal life and His eventual return.
   • The hope we have is not just for a future in heaven, but also for our transformation here on earth—Jesus is actively working to make us more like Him.

2. Hope as an Anchor for the Soul
   Blake introduced a deeper look into the meaning of biblical hope, drawing from both Greek and Hebrew languages. He highlighted that hope is like a cord or anchor that we bind ourselves to. Biblical hope leads to life decisions and actions rooted in the assurance of God's promises, not in fear or wishful thinking.

   • True hope motivates us to live differently, displaying grace, mercy, and steadfastness in our relationships and challenges.
   • Conversely, placing hope in the wrong things—such as people, circumstances, or even ourselves—leads to disappointment and discouragement.

3. Living Out Our Hope in Community
   Titus emphasized the importance of unity in the body of Christ, reminding us of Jesus' prayer in John 17 for believers to be one, as He and the Father are one. This unity serves as a witness to the world, showing that our shared hope in Jesus transcends all earthly divisions.

   • Our unity demonstrates to others that we have something eternal and unshakable to look forward to.
   • Even in times of conflict, we are called to make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3).

4. Hope in the Midst of Trials
   The episode explored the idea that hope often becomes most visible during trials and suffering. As followers of Jesus, our hope should shine brightest in dark seasons, revealing that our faith is anchored in something unchanging.

   • The pastors discussed how the trials we face are opportunities for growth, building perseverance and character, which ultimately strengthen our hope.
   • They also touched on the reality that our hope is not just about escaping our current struggles but enduring them with the assurance that God is working for our good (Romans 8:28).

5. The Role of the Church in Encouraging Hope
   The conversation concluded with a reminder that the church plays a vital role in helping each other keep hope alive. Sometimes, when our heads are down and we feel discouraged, we need others to help lift our eyes back to Jesus and the promises we share.

   • Encouragement and accountability within the body of Christ help prevent us from losing hope or being distracted by temporary concerns.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does the biblical definition of hope differ from the way hope is commonly understood in our culture?
2. What does it look like to live out your hope in Christ in your everyday relationships and decisions?
3. Have there been times when you struggled to maintain hope? How did the community of believers around you help you during those times?
4. What are some "false hopes" that people often place their trust in, and how can we guard against these distractions?
5. In what ways can you help others in your church or life group live out the hope we share in Christ?

Action Steps:

• Reflect on Your Hope: Take time this week to consider where your hope truly lies. Is it in Christ, or are you placing your hope in things that may ultimately disappoint you?
• Encourage Someone: Reach out to a friend or fellow believer who may be struggling. Share words of encouragement and remind them of the hope we have in Jesus.
• Practice Unity: In moments of conflict or disagreement, remember that we are one in Christ. Make every effort to maintain unity through the bond of peace, knowing that we will spend eternity together.

Looking Ahead:

Next week, we’ll continue in Ephesians 4 by examining God’s design for organizational leadership within the church and how this structure supports unity and maturity in the body of Christ. Stay tuned as we explore the role of leadership in helping believers grow and maintain their hope and purpose.

One: Baptism

In this episode of the podcast, Jim Putman leads Sam, Blake, Gabe and Jim into the topic of baptism as part of the ongoing "One" series, focusing on Ephesians 4. They discuss how the church can maintain unity amidst diverse backgrounds and theological differences, especially around the meaning and practice of baptism.

With personal stories, the pastors explore their journeys from various Christian traditions and how they came to understand baptism through the lens of scripture. They emphasize the need for clarity, obedience, and unity in the body of Christ.

Some of the things they discuss: 

1. The Importance of Baptism
   Baptism is central to Christian faith and practice, but the meaning and method of baptism can differ greatly across denominations. The pastors reflect on their own experiences growing up in different church traditions and how those shaped their initial views on baptism. For example, Gabe grew up in a Nazarene church where baptisms were rare, while Sam’s Bible church didn’t even have a baptistry. The hosts emphasize the biblical understanding of baptism as an act of obedience and a public declaration of faith.

2. Unity in Christ Amidst Diversity
   The group discusses how churches today often struggle with unity, not only because of different traditions but also due to varied interpretations of key elements like baptism. Real Life Ministries aims to teach a biblical understanding of baptism while extending grace to those who may come from different backgrounds. The goal is not division but unity through scripture and the shared mission of making disciples.

3. Biblical Foundation of Baptism
   Jim shares how going back to the early church’s teachings in the New Testament helps bring clarity. The early Christians, like the apostles, practiced immersion as part of the baptism process. He also discusses how the act of baptism is a symbolic representation of being "buried with Christ" and raised to a new life. This water immersion aligns with the teaching of scripture and should be emphasized in the church today.

4. The Role of Discipleship in Obedience
   Discipleship plays a crucial role in understanding and following Jesus' commands, including baptism. Jim and the pastors recount personal stories of how mentors in their lives helped them realize the significance of baptism, encouraging obedience to God's Word. This process of walking with others in faith is key to ensuring that baptism is not just a ritual but a meaningful step of obedience.

5. Living Out Our Faith as a Unified Body
   Jim closes by reminding listeners that unity in the body of Christ goes beyond theology—it’s about living out the truth of scripture in love. He encourages believers to hold fast to biblical truths, such as baptism, while also walking in grace and love toward others. This is how the church can reflect Christ to a divided and broken world.

Discussion Questions:

1. How has your understanding of baptism changed over the years?
2. What role has discipleship played in your own faith journey, particularly in understanding key practices like baptism?
3. What are some ways your church can better teach and live out a biblical understanding of baptism while maintaining unity?
4. How do you personally balance grace and truth when discussing important but sometimes divisive topics like baptism?
5. What does it mean for the church to be truly “one” in Christ, especially in today’s culture?

By understanding scripture and living in obedience, we can foster unity in the body of Christ, even in a world that is often divided. Let’s continue to seek clarity in God's Word, extend grace to others, and live out our faith in unity.

One: Faith

In this episode of the Overtime Podcast, we explore deeper themes from the current sermon series based on Ephesians 4, focusing on unity in the body of Christ and the concept of "one faith." Hosts Jim Putman talks with Blake, Josh as they reflect on their individual messages delivered across the campuses, emphasizing the importance of understanding and living out the biblical definition of faith. They discuss the theological foundation of the "one faith" and how it is meant to transform not only what we believe but how we live. Join us as we dig into key scriptures like Colossians 1, Hebrews 11, and Jude, and discover what it truly means to be united in Christ.

 

Key Points:

1. Understanding "One Faith”:

    - Ephesians 4 highlights the call for unity in the body of Christ. We are called to be "one" in    faith, with a shared belief and lifestyle that reflect the teachings of Jesus.

    - Josh emphasizes Colossians 1 to define the core tenets of the Christian faith: the supremacy of Christ, creation through Him, and His sacrifice for our sins.

    - Blake breaks down the Hebrew and Greek terms for faith, showing how biblical faith is not just belief but an active, living trust that requires action.

2. Living Out the One Faith:

    - Both speakers explore how faith must be demonstrated through our actions. It's not enough to hold beliefs intellectually; those beliefs must lead to tangible actions in our relationships, service, and personal lives.

    - They touch on James 2, emphasizing that "faith without works is dead," challenging listeners to evaluate if their faith is being lived out in daily life.

3. Faith in Action:

    - Biblical faith is demonstrated not just by avoiding sin but by proactively living out righteousness. Acts of love, service, and generosity are essential to embodying faith.

    - The episode references Hebrews 11's definition of faith, underscoring how faith begins in our hearts and minds but must also be seen in our hands — our actions toward others.

4. The Importance of Doctrine:

    - The pastors stress the need for sound doctrine. Scripture, especially the "one faith" mentioned in Ephesians, Jude, and other parts of the Bible, has been delivered once for all. It cannot be altered, redefined, or added to by modern interpretations.

    - False teachings and the distortion of scripture are addressed, encouraging believers to "contend for the faith" (Jude 3) and to hold firmly to the truth, especially in times of confusion and division.

 

Discussion Questions:

1. How does Ephesians 4's call for "one faith" challenge the way you view unity in the church?
2. In what ways are you actively living out your faith in daily life? Is your faith producing the fruit that others can see and experience?
3. How do you respond to the idea that faith without action is dead? Can you think of areas in your life where faith could be more evident in your actions?
4. What role does sound doctrine play in your faith? How do you guard against false teachings or misconceptions about the gospel?
5. How can we, as a church or life group, better support one another in remaining faithful to the teachings of Christ?

Action Steps:

1. Read Ephesians 4: Reflect on what it means to be called into "one body" and "one faith." How does this shape your understanding of your role within the church?
2. Study Hebrews 11: Dive deeper into the biblical definition of faith. Ask yourself, how does this faith show up in my actions and relationships?
3. Evaluate Your Walk: Take time this week to ask trusted friends or family members how they see you living out your faith. Consider areas where you may need to grow.
4. Join a Life Group: If you're not already in a group, consider joining one to explore these truths further in community. Faith is meant to be practiced together.

Closing:

This episode calls us back to the foundational truth of the "one faith" we share in Christ. As we continue in our study of Ephesians, may we grow not just in knowledge, but in love and action, united as one body, serving the world around us. Until next week, keep growing in your faith—head, heart, and hands. God bless!

One: Lord

In this episode of the Real Life Ministries Overtime Podcast, we’re diving deep into our "One" series. Hosts Jim Putman, Gabe Cleave, and Christian Putman discuss the foundational theme of unity within the church, especially through understanding the doctrine of the Trinity. They explore how biblical oneness reflects God’s nature and impacts our mission as disciples of Jesus. The conversation highlights key doctrinal truths and their practical implications for personal growth and church unity.

Key Themes:

1. Unity as a Witness:
   - Paul and Peter emphasize the importance of unity in their letters, reminding believers of their call to be one body, part of a holy nation built on the foundation of Christ.
   - Unity among believers is essential to reflecting Christ to the world. As Gabe says, "Our unity is our witness."
   
2. The Trinity: A Complex Yet Foundational Doctrine:
   - The Trinity is both a deep and essential Christian truth. While hard to fully grasp, it’s crucial to understand that God is one being in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
   - Misunderstandings like modalism, partialism, and Arianism are common but dangerous, as they distort the true nature of God.
   - The Trinity is foundational to the gospel: Jesus’ divinity is key to the atonement. Without Jesus being fully God, the forgiveness of sins would not be possible.
   
3. Biblical Foundations of the Trinity:
   - The deity of Christ, the Father, and the Holy Spirit is clearly supported by Scripture, from Genesis through the New Testament. For example, Acts 5 affirms the Holy Spirit as God, and Philippians 2 speaks of Jesus’ divine nature.
   - The podcast emphasizes Jesus' prayer in John 17, where He prays for believers to be one, just as He and the Father are one—a unity that reflects the nature of the Trinity.

4. The Role of the Trinity in Our Lives:
   - The Holy Spirit works in believers today, convicting, sanctifying, and unifying the church. The relationship among the Father, Son, and Spirit models how we are to relate to each other as the body of Christ.
   - Gabe and Christian encourage listeners to live in step with God's revealed truth, to embrace humility, and to bear with one another in love and truth.

Discussion Questions:
1. Why is unity among believers so important, and how does it serve as a witness to the world?
2. How does understanding the Trinity deepen our appreciation of the gospel?
3. What are some common misconceptions about the Trinity, and why is it crucial to correct them?
4. Reflect on Jesus' prayer in John 17. How does His desire for unity among believers challenge you in your relationships within the church?
5. In what ways can we practically live out the balance between truth and love, as modeled by the Trinity?

Action Steps:
- Study the Doctrine of the Trinity: Explore key Scriptures like Ephesians 4, Philippians 2, and John 17 to deepen your understanding of the Trinity.
- Prioritize Unity in Your Group: Encourage your life group to practice unity, both in belief and in love. Discuss areas where disagreement might exist and how to approach them with humility and grace.
- Reflect on Your Witness: Consider how your relationships within the church demonstrate Christ to the world. What changes might you need to make to better reflect Jesus’ prayer for oneness?

Closing Thoughts:
Unity and truth are inseparable in the Christian life, just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are unified in one divine essence. As we grow in our understanding of the Trinity, we must let this truth shape not only what we believe but how we live in relationship with one another. Join us as we continue this "One" series, growing together in Christ for the sake of the gospel.

Scripture References:
- Ephesians 4:1-6
- John 17:20-23
- Philippians 2:5-11
- Acts 5:1-5
- 2 Peter 1:1-2