Shadyside Church of Christ
Religion & Spirituality
About
Evangelist Jeff Kent and the Shadyside Church of Christ present a weekly lesson to help and encourage listeners in their daily walk with Christ and spread the Gospel. We are non-denominational and all lessons are taken directly from the scriptures.
Episodes
- The Faith of Rahab
Rahab was a resident of Jericho when Israel came to conquer Canaan. Yet, she and her family did not perish with the others of her city. How did that come about? Rahab's faith is noted two times in the New Testament. How did she come to bel…
- The Holy Spirit of God (pt 2)
The Holy Spirit is given to us at baptism to help in this conflict between good and evil. We can, however, resist or quench the Spirit as He leads us to do what's right and good. Paul writes of the works of the flesh being in stark contras…
- The Holy Spirit of God
We briefly explore two questions. What is the role of the Holy Spirit today? It may surprise you that the Holy Spirit is not (as so many people mistakenly believe) all about the Holy Spirit! Then, what is the "gift of the Holy Spirit" of w…
- Works Works Works
The topic of works in scripture can be confusing since there are several different kinds. A work or deed is simply something a person does, but the reason or purpose for it is important. There are good works and evil deeds which anyone can…
- The True Vine
The vine imagery is used in several places in scripture to refer to God's people and His desire for them to bear good fruit. For the most part, Israel failed at this (Isaiah 5), and God planted the "true vine" - His Son Jesus to produce th…
- Fighting to Win
The conflict between God and the devil has raged since the beginning. Christians are naturally drawn into this battle by choosing Christ. But this is a life and death struggle, and those who choose the side of the Lord must fight to win -…
- Epaphroditus
Paul had great praise for Epaphroditus who risked his life "for the work of Christ." Paul called him a "fellow worker," a "fellow soldier" and "my brother." We can all learn much from Epaphroditus about serving in the kingdom of God. Scrip…
- Come and See
This episode explores evangelism through the lens of invitation, drawing parallels with Jesus' call to his followers and Philip's invitation to Nathanael. It references John 1:43-44, John 1:45-49, and 1 Corinthians 14:23-25.
- Life is in the Blood
This episode discusses the theological concept of blood sacrifice for sin atonement, contrasting animal sacrifices in Israelite history with the significance of Jesus' sacrifice for forgiveness.
- Naaman Believes
This episode discusses the biblical story of Naaman the Syrian, who was instructed by the prophet Elisha to dip seven times in the Jordan River to be cleansed of leprosy. It highlights Naaman's eventual obedience and the spiritual signific…
- A Worthy Walk
This episode discusses Christ Jesus's role as Creator and reconciler, based on Colossians 1:9-23. It emphasizes that His sacrifice should inspire believers to live lives worthy of Him.
- I Am
This episode examines the theological concept of "I AM," referencing God's statement to Moses and Jesus' claims in the Gospel of John, particularly "before Abraham was I AM," to assert Jesus' divinity.
- Worthless Religion
This episode emphasizes the importance of applying learned religious teachings practically. It suggests that without application, religious study is a useless exercise, but living faith can be life-changing for individuals and their commun…
- Doubting God
This episode discusses doubt, using John the Baptist's questioning of Jesus from prison as a parallel to personal struggles with unanswered prayers and the presence of suffering despite divine promises.
- The People of God (pt.3)
In part three of "The People of God," the episode discusses believers as living stones in God's spiritual temple, with Jesus as the cornerstone, and as a holy priesthood offering spiritual sacrifices.
- The People of God (pt.2)
This episode discusses the conduct expected of God's people, who are called to live holy lives reflecting their Lord Jesus after being redeemed and born again.
- The People of God (pt.1)
This episode discusses the idea of God's people as travelers on Earth with values centered on an unseen Someone and a future salvation, a concept of great marvel.
- Read the Book!
This episode of Shadyside Church of Christ discusses how family traditions and legends can become accepted truths, even when they contradict scripture. It references the Sadducees' mistaken understanding of Jesus's words as a lesson on the…
- Seeing the Beautiful
This episode encourages listeners to look for the good and beautiful in the world, even amidst widespread negative news and divisiveness, suggesting it's a tactic of the devil to distract from God's creation.
- You Cannot Be Replaced
This episode contrasts society's disposable mindset with God's view of individuals, emphasizing that each person is unique, known, loved by God, and cannot be replaced.
- Five Smooth Stones
This episode addresses life's overwhelming problems, using the biblical story of David and Goliath as an example. It suggests solutions are found in faith, practiced skills, and one's relationship with God.
- It is Finished
Jesus's final words, "It is finished," are explored, highlighting that Jesus accomplished what His Father sent Him to do, fulfilling God's purposes through His life and death.
- Keeping the Traditions
The episode explores how early followers of Christ, coming from diverse religious backgrounds, adapted their traditions to their new faith. It highlights the traditions passed down from Jesus and the apostles that continue to guide the chu…
- Which Side Is God On?
This episode explores the historical and contemporary claims that God supports specific sides in conflicts. It questions whether God actively chooses sides or maintains neutrality in such situations.
- Becoming Great
In this episode, Jesus's teaching on greatness is explored, emphasizing that true greatness and a high position in the kingdom are attained by becoming a servant to all, just as Jesus was. The episode discusses surprising ways to practice…
- Dirty Laundry
This episode discusses the process of sin removal for Christians, likening it to washing dirty clothes. It emphasizes that only the blood of Christ can cleanse sins, questioning whether unrepented sins will be forgiven.
- Nameless
The episode discusses the human desire for recognition in a competitive world, contrasting it with God's different methods and reasons for honoring people.
- Evil Begets Evil
The episode discusses the rise in global evil and violence, questioning its origins and exploring the appropriate responses for the church and individual Christians.
- How Rich Are You?
This episode examines the concept of "true riches" and "the unfathomable riches of Christ" as discussed in religious texts, contrasting these spiritual assets with material wealth often associated with lottery winnings.
- Blessed Assurance
The episode "Blessed Assurance" from Shadyside Church of Christ explores the question of salvation. It discusses whether one can be certain of their salvation and what foundational elements are necessary for assurance.
- The Word on Work
This episode discusses work as an integral part of God's plan, citing examples from creation, Adam tending the garden, and Jesus's carpentry. It emphasizes that the manner in which work is performed is important to God.
- The Thief on the Cross #2
This episode examines the case of the thief on the cross and its theological implications for baptism. It argues that the thief's situation does not negate the need for baptism today, emphasizing that scripture is consistent and that curre…
- The Thief on the Cross #1
The episode "The Thief on the Cross #1" from Shadyside Church of Christ discusses the biblical narrative of one of the thieves crucified with Jesus. It explores questions surrounding salvation, baptism, and the specific actions or inaction…
- Sharing the Gospel
Jesus commanded his disciples to spread the gospel after his resurrection, yet followers struggle to share this message of eternal life.
- Giver or Hoarder?
This episode of Shadyside Church of Christ discusses the biblical teaching that it is more blessed to give than to receive. It encourages listeners to find blessings in giving various forms of generosity, including material possessions, sk…
- Bible Study Basics
This episode discusses the importance of personal Bible study and outlines fundamental guidelines from scripture to help prevent misinterpretation. It emphasizes using these principles to remain aligned with the truth of God's word.
- Know Your Enemy (pt 2)
This episode discusses the devil as a deceiver who opposes truth and creates false Christians. It highlights Jesus Christ's victory over the devil's works and how believers are given spiritual armor to resist him, concluding with a surpris…
- Our Adversary the Devil (part 1)
This episode focuses on understanding the adversary, the devil, by knowing his tactics. It presents him as a beaten enemy who opposes God and His people, stressing the need for recognition and resistance.
- Freedom
This episode examines Jesus' power over Satan through the story of healing a woman who had been physically disabled for eighteen years. It discusses the concept of human bondage to sin and Jesus' mission to set the oppressed free.
- That's Your Opinion
The episode discusses the prevalence of opinions in modern society and the challenges of respectful dialogue. It references the biblical story of Paul and Barnabas' disagreement to explore how differences of opinion can be resolved and wha…
- Bless The Lord, O My Soul
This episode discusses Psalm 103, highlighting David's exhortation to praise God and remember His benefits. It suggests joining David in blessing the Lord for His mighty works and compassionate actions.
- Be at Peace
Jesus offered his disciples a specific kind of peace before leaving the earth. This episode examines that peace in contrast to the widespread worry, agitation, and confusion prevalent in the world today.
- Star Wars, The Real Story
The episode "Star Wars, The Real Story" from Shadyside Church of Christ contrasts fictional space wars with the actual spiritual warfare humans face. It suggests a need for reminders about the true nature of our reality.
- What David Needed
The episode explores David's sin with Bathsheba and his subsequent actions. It draws parallels to modern-day needs for dealing with sin and renewing one's relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of having a heart like David's.
- The Agony of Gethsemane
The episode discusses Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, noting that while the anticipation of crucifixion was agonizing, other aspects of the event also contributed to His suffering.
- Christ, Our Promo Code
This episode discusses Christ as the necessary 'promo code' for achieving forgiveness of sins and eternal life, highlighting that salvation comes through Him alone, not through human merit.
- Jesus, A Man's Man
The episode discusses the societal ridicule of masculinity and suggests that Jesus Christ provides an example of true manhood for men to follow, contrasting this with the world's potentially problematic interpretations of male roles.
- Why Life is Like Baseball
This episode draws parallels between life and baseball, highlighting aspects such as being part of a team, the extended duration of a season, experiencing both hits and strikeouts, and other deeper connections.
- Moses, The Mountain Man
The episode discusses the significance of mountains in biblical events, focusing on four key moments in Moses's life that occurred on mountains. These events are presented as parallels to human experiences that foster closeness with God, r…
- What Are You Seeking?
This episode explores universal human questions about identity, belonging, and purpose. It suggests that the answers are found within God's word and encourages listeners to seek them out and follow Jesus.