The Yellow Balloons Podcast

S 11 Ep 4: The Unrighteous Road

Throughout The Book of Romans, Paul argues that trying to do right all the time is an exercise in futility. Not that we should give up on good behavior, but we should not consider it necessary for acceptance into the Kingdom of God. When our own action is the central hero of our lives, we will find ourselves in cycles of incapacity, shame and sin - a path that leads to spiritual death. The only way to avoid this cycle is a life of faith - to trust and hope in Jesus. To believe in Him and all that He has done. And do our best in response, moving out of acceptance rather than toward it.

S 11 Ep 5: The Definition of Salvation

The Book of Romans centers around the question of whether faith is enough on its own? A key element to Paul’s discussion is the issue of salvation. In this episode, we examine, both in Romans and other books, the many different kinds of salvation the Bible suggests. Perhaps the major flaw in Paul’s detractors is a misunderstanding of salvation. In the second half of The Book of Romans, Paul pivots to a focus on how to walk in salvation, in its many forms.

S 11 Ep 6: Dikaiosune

In this episode, we discuss Paul’s approach to righteousness. Paul’s main thesis is that righteousness is not achieved by man’s ability to uphold the law, but by Jesus’ fulfillment of the law through his life, death, and resurrection. The law is not adequate for salvation. Neither is our ability to follow the rules of the law. What makes righteousness possible is Jesus. And our part is to put our faith in Him. 

S 11 Ep 7: Paradoxical

Throughout The Book of Romans, Paul addresses the great paradox of faith. Belief requires a certain element of uncertainty. It is all about trusting in God. And trusting in Him leads to certain attitudes and behaviors. Obedience is a work of perspective and a work of action. In this episode, we discuss the complex relationship between faith and action. For Paul, the key is a constant reminder that Christ is the head, from which all good things flow.

S 12 Ep 1: Character and Courage

The story of Ruth is one of the most beautiful and inspiring narratives of Scripture. Ruth is an example of character, courage, and faith. She takes big risks and embodies what it means to be faithful. This little story packs a punch, showing us all manner of mercy, kindness, and adventure. As a descendant of Jesus, this woman and this story are part of the greater narrative of God working in the world. In this episode, we explore the life, lessons, and central message of The Book of Ruth.

S 13 Ep 1: Don’t Coast In Your Faith

In this episode, we begin our brief series on The Book of Philippians. The beginning of Philippians is all about developing the right mindset. In order to live well, we must have a true perspective and consistent faith. Paul calls the Philippians to task for being too lazy, too apathetic. It is an incredible opportunity to live in the Kingdom of God, even in the midst of its challenges. Philippians invites us to listen to God, love others, and set aside unhealthy appetites. The key to it all is the mindset we choose.

S 13 Ep 2: The Right Mindset

In this episode, we talk about the right perspective of worldly temptations. Every day, we struggle to give up worldly pride and desires. The appetite for these things is as strong as it is dangerous. The paradox is that seeing these things truly invites us to lay them aside, which actually leads to our best life. Jesus had a strong place at the right hand of God and gave it up to be a man. He did not seek profit and worldly treasures/status, he humbly accepted God’s plan for him. We are meant to mimic this mindset.

S 13 Ep 3: Fighting The Same Battle

In this episode, we conclude our series on The Book of Philippians with a discussion on the power of perspective. The way we choose to see things fuels how we act and what we think. Christians are all fighting the same battles. Similar to Paul’s companions, we are called to be of the same mind for the Lord. We are called to be fair-minded, open-hearted, trustworthy and good to others. The Book of Philippians invites us to continually adopt the mindset of Christ and follow as it leads to a life of action and meaning.

S 14 Ep 1: One Man’s Faith Journey (Part One)

In this episode, we explore the origins of Christianity and its relationship to Judaism. We talk with Mark Meckler about his faith journey, including the search that got him to Jesus, the questions he had in the beginning, and some of the practices he developed to help him along the way. Christians are meant to ask questions. Following Jesus is not about figuring it all out, but about being in relationship with the Divine. Faith is not about having all of the answers, it is about believing, having courage, and giving life your best effort. 

S 14 Ep 2: One Man’s Faith Journey (Part Two)

In this episode, we explore the origins of Christianity and its relationship to Judaism. We talk with Mark Meckler about his faith journey, including the search that got him to Jesus, the questions he had in the beginning, and some of the practices he developed to help him along the way. Christians are meant to ask questions. Following Jesus is not about figuring it all out, but about being in relationship with the Divine. Faith is not about having all of the answers, it is about believing, having courage, and giving life your best effort.