The Yellow Balloons Podcast

S 14 Ep 3: What is Evangelism?

In this episode, we dive into the question: what is evangelism? The best way to express the gospel to others is to live it out in one’s own life. This is the message of Scripture, from the Shema in Deuteronomy 6 to 1 Peter 3 and The Book of Hebrews. This kind of witness speaks volumes and is much more effective than being preached at or argued with. Stewarding life well is especially difficult in times of pain, sadness, and uncertainty. As difficult as these times can be, they are also fertile ground for making known the truth of the gospel.

S 14 Ep 4: Where Do I Start Reading The Bible?

If you are new to Christianity, you might find it overwhelming to open up your bible. There are so many books in the Bible, so many questions, and so many ideas. Where is the best place to begin? The key is just to start. There is no definitive right place to begin, just about anywhere will do. In this episode, we discuss some ideas of where to begin, as well as some processes and perspectives to keep in mind as you learn. At the end of the day, the key is to start. Don’t overthink it. Don’t stress about whether you are doing it right. Just try. There is value everywhere you turn.

S 14 Ep 5: How is the Bible Organized

If you’re new to Christianity, you may notice the Bible is full of a lot of different kinds of books and that the Christian religion has some really unique and sometimes confusing terms. In this episode, we talk through different sections of the Bible, including the Law (or Torah), the Gospels, the Prophets, and the New Testament letters. We discuss what is different about each of these and why is the Bible full of such diverse literary expressions. We also dissect some of the unique Christian terms and discover both their value and hindrances. By addressing these questions, both new and established Christians can help unravel some of the obstacles to effectively reading the Bible and engaging with their faith.

S 14 Ep 6: What Does it Mean to be Born Again?

What does it mean to be “born again”, cause that’s a confusing thing to consider?. What is baptism and why does it matter? In this episode, we address questions about what it means to enter and participate in The Kingdom of God. We will help you unravel some of the confusions and distractions, freeing you to participate in what The Bible calls “the life that is truly life”. According to The Bible, true life is one lived in obedience to the spirit rather than bondage to the flesh.

S 14 Ep 7: Do I Have to Follow All the Rules in the Bible?

What about “the rules”? Every Christian knows there are rules: things you are not supposed to do and things you have to do. In this episode, we talk about the nature of those rules. They are not arbitrary requirements to prove obedience; the rules are essentially God’s description of how the world works and what is best for you. The consequence for doing them is that you will miss out on some of the abundant life God offers. He loves us. Nothing can change that. There are no rules for earning his love. The guidance of The Bible is about truth and consequence, showing us the way to make the most of this one precious life.

S 14 Ep 8: How is the Bible Relevant to My Life?

Whether you are a new Christian, an experienced one, or not a believer at all, you likely have some questions about the authenticity of The Bible. How can something written so long ago be applicable today? Has it changed throughout the thousands of years it has existed? Can Scripture really help with what I am going through? In this episode, we talk through the essential task of The Bible: describing reality as it is. One of the reasons for its supernatural staying power is that it speaks to the very heart of the human experience.

S 14 Ep 9: What Does Flesh vs Spirit Mean?

The Bible often talks about two different paths. One is the path God suggests and it leads to goodness. The other is the path of destruction. One framework Scripture uses to describe these two paths is flesh versus spirit.​​ People sometimes think that being a Chrsitian means the voice of the flesh goes away. But this isn’t the case. Every day, Christians have to decide what path to walk on. The way of the flesh leads to disappointment and destruction but the way of the spirit leads to life. Ultimately the choice is ours to make.

S 14 Ep 10: What is The Bible About?

Why was The Bible written? Is there a main point to it? What is The Bible about? In this episode, we discuss these questions by addressing both the metaphysical and rudimentary value of Scripture. The Bible helps us discover who God is, who we are, and how we ought to interact with God, ourselves, and others. This book helps us discover how to live in alignment with reality, thus discovering a life of fulfillment.

S 14 Ep 11: Why are There Different Translations of the Bible?

New Christians are often surprised and confused to discover there are several different Biblical translations. The Bible was originally written in Hebrew and Greek. For centuries, it has needed to be translated in order for the global community to understand its message. Even experienced Christians have a difficult time sorting through the differences. So, which translation is best? In this episode, we talk through the different types of translations and strategies for discerning which is most helpful.

S 14 Ep 12: What is church? Do I Need to Join One?

Meeting with a community of believers is an important aspect to Christian life. We often talk about these meeting spaces as “churches”. In this episode, we talk about the purpose of church and how to go about finding the right community. Daily Christian community happens in our local groups. But all believers are also united as one big church, what Scripture calls The Body of Christ. It is a great challenge and immense joy for Christians to discover how to serve and be served by a community of believers.