Have you ever wondered, “Why do I still struggle with this?” Many Christians expect that with maturity, temptation will decrease and sin will lose its appeal. But Scripture offers a more realistic view. In this episode, we talk about the saint-sinner reality. How believers remain both righteous in Christ and yet still battle the flesh. Jon is joined by special guest pastor and author, Luke Kjolhaug, to explore what the Bible actually says about spiritual growth, expectation, and daily struggle.
Jesus Knows You're Tired
Maybe you’ve heard the term arrival fallacy; the idea that once we reach a certain point in life, things will finally get easier. We can fall into the same mindset in the Christian life, believing that one day suffering will lessen, trials will be lighter, or the battle with sin won’t be as intense. Some even think that if we just get church and doctrine right, the problems will go away. But that’s not biblical. In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about the ongoing reality of weakness, struggle, and suffering in the Christian life. You’re not alone, you’re not crazy, and Christ is for you and with you.
Feeling Cold and Discouraged?
Christians struggle. We are often weak. We often feel cold and apathetic--even toward the things of God. We battle discouragement. Many believers are afraid to admit these things are true, but most of us live here. Jon and Justin talk openly about all of this on today’s episode. Take heart, there is hope for the weak!
When the Faithful Falter
Often in Scripture, the faithful falter. For example, Abraham is called "the man of faith" by Paul, and he is upheld as the model of justification by faith in all of the Bible. Yet, he sold his wife into defilement and adultery--twice. Or, consider the disciples. In the aftermath of Jesus' death and resurrection, they are hiding together in a room, terrified. What do we make of these things?
The Difference Between Sin and Struggle
There is a difference between unrepentant sin and struggling as a fallen person in a fallen world. How should we understand our own struggle and the struggle of other believers? And what does this mean for life together in the church?