The Living Streams Church Podcast

Ezekiel, born into a priestly lineage in Jerusalem, had his life shattered when Babylon invaded, taking him captive. At age 30, in a slave camp, he received a vision of God's glory that sustained him. He later saw a vision of the temple corrupted by idolatry, reflecting modern society's worship of money, sex, and comfort. This highlighted the priests' corruption and the temple's impending destruction. Ezekiel's vision of a new, purified temple with healing waters symbolizes the Holy Spirit's cleansing power. Christians are called to repentance, casting down idols, and allowing God's living water to flow through them, revitalizing their lives and communities.

Join pastors David Stockton and Alec Seekins in this episode as they explore the significance of Ezekiel's visions, the wisdom of living in exile as taught by Ezekiel, Daniel, and Jeremiah, and the hope found in God's promise of restoration.

On his 30th birthday, Ezekiel, grieving in a slave camp, receives a transformative vision of God's glory, inspiring him to praise despite severe trials. This vision, depicted in Ezekiel 1 and epitomized by the cross, turns affliction into hope. We should seek a vision of God's glory to persevere through our own suffering, because God's presence brings redemption.

Join Pastors Alec Seekins and Ryan Romeo as they explore the powerful message of Ezekiel 37 and its relevance to our lives today.

Ezekiel, a prophet and priest taken captive to Babylon, used visions and messages from God to give hope to the exiled Israelites. Chapter 36 describes God cleansing their sin and giving them a new spiritual heart. Chapter 37 uses a vision of dry bones coming back to life to symbolize God's promise to restore the nation of Israel and give them new life through his Spirit.

In this week's episode of The Living Streams Podcast, Daniel Riccio sits down with David to discuss the apocalyptic literature found in The Book of Daniel.

Apocalyptic literature can be confusing, but the message is often clear. Instead of focusing on the strange imagery, look for what the angels explain. These explanations, like those given to Daniel, provide instructions for how to live a faithful life in difficult times. This includes setting your heart to understand God, taking action to help others understand, turning people towards righteousness, purifying yourself, and waiting with hopeful anticipation for God's promises.

In this week's episode, David sits down for a solo podcast and discusses Mother's Day, the hispanic congregation at Living Streams, and Daniel Chapter 6.

Despite a long and successful life serving kings in Babylon, Daniel's unwavering faith in God landed him in a lions' den. A jealous plot and an unchangeable law forced the king's hand, but Daniel's miraculous rescue solidified the king's belief in God and showcased the power of unwavering faith.

On this week's episode of The Living Streams Podcast, Dalton finds weird AI generated images of Jesus and David and Ryan discuss humility, pride, sin, and praying for Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs during National Day of Prayer.

The story of Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4 shows how God humbles the proud and rewards the faithful. Nebuchadnezzar boasts about his achievements but is driven mad for seven years as punishment. After repenting, his sanity is restored. Similarly, Belshazzar in Daniel 5 throws a feast using stolen sacred goblets and is given a divine message foretelling his downfall. Both stories emphasize the importance of humility and God's sovereignty over the powerful.

In this week's episode, David Stockton and Tim Hesman discuss the statue in King Nebuchadnezzar's dream in Daniel 2, The National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance and what it means to a Christian living in America, and the prioritization of being a citizen of God's Kingdom before any other country or nation.

The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3 teaches us about the importance of faith. They refused to worship idols out of fear, trust, and love for God, even when facing death. Deuteronomy 6 reinforces this message, reminding us that true courage comes from fearing God more than anything else. Trusting in God's character and loving Him for who He is, not what He can do for us, allows us to remain faithful even in difficult circumstances.

On this week's episode of the podcast, David and Ryan discuss America's comparison to Babylon, the empires that human power has built up throughout history, and the statues that Daniel saw in his prophetic dreams in the Bible.

King Nebuchadnezzar had a troubling dream and demanded his wise men interpret it. When they couldn't, he threatened to kill them all, including Daniel. Daniel prayed to God and received the dream's meaning – a vision of empires rising and falling, with God's kingdom ultimately prevailing. Daniel interpreted the dream for the king, giving credit to God. The king was impressed, recognized the true God, and spared everyone's life. Daniel's faith and wisdom saved himself, his friends, and the other wise men.

On this week's episode of the podcast, Alec and David are joined by special guest and elder Daniel Riccio to discuss Daniel's commitment to the kingdom of God among the kingdom of Babylon. In addition, they also discuss Christendom in the United States, what Zion truly means in the Bible, and how the Christian faith is one of a sojourner.

The Book of Daniel tells the story of a young man exiled from his homeland who remains faithful to his God despite the challenges. Just like Daniel living in a foreign land, Christians today are seen as living in exile, away from their true home in heaven. The passage offers three ways to navigate this exile: remembering we are temporary residents, staying separate from worldly influences, and keeping faith in God's salvation.

On this week's deep dive episode, Ryan Romeo and Alec Seekins discuss The Book of Jeremiah, feeling exiled in today's modern culture, and being a Christian in America.

The prophet Jeremiah warned the people of Judah about idolatry and corruption, leading to exile. What can we learn from Jeremiah's message? Live faithfully, build a strong community, and discern truth from falsehood.

In our final episode in our series on the Gospel of Mark, David Stockton and Alec Seekins discuss the rhythm of Holy Week, the Resurrection of Jesus, and Dune 2.

Easter marks the resurrection of Jesus, the core of Christianity. This future resurrection for believers is a promise worth dedicating our lives to Christ, just like Mary Magdalene's selfless devotion.

Palm Sunday remembers Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey while crowds celebrated. This event fulfilled prophecies and foreshadowed Jesus as the Messiah. Shortly after, the disciples asked Jesus about the end times. Jesus answered that the exact timing is unknown, but there would be various signs including wars, famines, and persecutions. These are not a reason to panic, but a reminder of a new world to come. The most important signs are the abomination of desolation and the Son of Man returning. Jesus’ teachings urged the disciples to be alert and prepared for the coming of God’s kingdom, while not being mislead or worried by worldly troubles.

In Mark 10, Jesus predicts his suffering and death while his disciples, focused on earthly power, miss his message. James and John seek high positions, revealing the disciples' ambition. Jesus corrects them, emphasizing that true greatness comes from serving others, as he himself has done by sacrificing his life. This passage highlights humility as the key to understanding Jesus' teachings and the path to true strength and fulfillment.

ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

The Bible offers guidance on navigating financial and societal challenges while staying true to faith. We should be responsible stewards of our finances, generous givers, and informed participants in society, all while prioritizing our relationship with God above worldly possessions and anxieties.

ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

While Jesus engaged in various practices like prayer and teaching, a key aspect of his ministry was being close to suffering. He calmed the storm not just to show power but to demonstrate his presence during hardship. He ventured into dangerous areas to heal the possessed man and the bleeding woman, prioritizing their well-being over his own comfort. Even when rejected by his hometown, he continued seeking opportunities to help those in need. This emphasis on proximity to pain serves as a powerful lesson for us, urging us to actively engage with the suffering around us, offering compassion, support, and practical help whenever possible.ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMS ONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Mark 3 portrays Jesus' growing ministry and its challenges. He heals a man on the Sabbath, sparking tension with religious leaders over tradition. His popularity attracts crowds, but also escalates conflict with the Pharisees. Even his family worries about his intense activity, seeking to intervene. Jesus responds by forming a new "family" with his disciples, emphasizing spiritual kinship over physical ties. Despite opposition, his message of God's love and discipleship continues to draw followers, reminding us of the eternal reward found in serving him.ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org/connectINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Mark's Gospel, written for Gentile converts, aims to prove Jesus as the Son of God. Despite the author's early abandonment of Paul, he matured and became a valuable minister. The Gospel builds toward the question of Jesus' identity, presenting evidence like his Sabbath teachings, where he challenged the Pharisees' restrictive interpretation and emphasized the day's intended joy and rest.Study further: https://livingstreams.org/mediaABOUT LIVING STREAMS Living Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ. #livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.org INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurch FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Though Jesus faced hardship and temptation in the wilderness, this wasn't God abandoning him, but the Holy Spirit guiding him toward spiritual growth. Through fasting, solitude, and scripture, Jesus prepared for the challenges ahead, reminding us that spiritual practices strengthen us against the devil's deceptive tactics. Hearing God's Word (the Bible) is key to overcoming these deceptions, leading us closer to Christ and ultimately defeating evil. Remember, even Jesus faced a "more opportune time" for darkness, but through faith in him, we too can overcome.Study further: livingstreams.org/media

While yearning for Christ-like growth and closer connection, we recognize God's transformative power through practices like prayer and solitude. Accepting our varied stages in faith, we trust God to author and perfect our journey, multiplying His beauty, truth, and love within us as we humbly follow Him and spend time with Him in silence and solitude.Study further: https://livingstreams.org/media

Jesus' life provides a roadmap for preparing for what God has in store. While often associated with miracles, Jesus' power stemmed from daily practices like prayer, fasting, solitude, and serving. These "practices of engagement" and "abstinence" help us encounter God, curtail worldly desires, and develop a prayerful connection that equips us for life's challenges and empowers us to bring God's glory into the world. By looking to Jesus' example and implementing these practices, we can confidently step into whatever God has planned for us.Study further: https://livingstreams.org/teaching

Unlike fortune telling or gossip, prophecy is a divine gift bestowed by the Holy Spirit to uplift and guide God's church. It goes beyond human intuition, offering Spirit-led insights often aligning with Scripture, that may reveal future glimpses or serve to build up, convict, and ultimately express God's heart for his people. It's a powerful tool for edification, demonstrating God's active presence within his community.Study further: https://livingstreams.org/teachingsABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

While we celebrate Jesus' first advent with faith and his second with hope, it's love that fuels our present. Guided by Thomas Kelly's call to embrace our "joyous burdens" of love, we can delve into Psalm 84 for guidance. As pilgrims yearning for and praising the Lord, we should develop a heart for His house, a spirit of constant gratitude, and a willingness to walk the path He sets before us. Empowered by Christ, we can find joy in serving Him through the good and hard times, just as the pilgrims anticipated reaching Jerusalem. So, let's dedicate this year to practicing love, embracing our specific tasks, and journeying with a grateful heart towards God's kingdom.STUDY DEEPERhttps://livingstreams.org/teachings-collection/2023/12/31/heart-of-pilgrimageABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

Skip the fleeting joys of the world that crumble under life's weight. Instead, discover Biblical Joy: a confident assurance, rooted in Christ and empowered by the Gospel. This Joy shields you from despair, grants perspective on pain, and ignites your purpose. Find it by drawing close to Jesus, the source of this unshakeable Joy He gifted through His sacrifice.ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

The world lacks peace due to the pervasive influence of sin. The ultimate solution lies in accepting Jesus' sacrifice and establishing a relationship with Him. Jesus, born as the Son of God, is the divine manifestation that addresses the root cause of sin. Despite the mystery surrounding His simultaneous divine and human nature, He lived, died, and rose again to pay for our sins. This profound act of sacrifice, symbolized by His birth and crucifixion, brings peace, healing, and restoration to humanity.Study Further:https://livingstreams.org/teachingsABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

In his message to the Colossian church, Paul emphasizes the transformative power of the hope brought by Jesus, drawing from his personal experiences. He contends that this hope is so robust that it enables believers to find joy in their sufferings, as Jesus promises purpose in every moment of hardship, likening it to the meaningful pain of childbirth. Paul unveils the mystery of this hope in Colossians 1:27, revealing that Christ's indwelling Spirit is the key. Despite life taking unexpected turns, such as the loss of loved ones or health, Paul urges individuals not to succumb to despair. Instead, he contrasts unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol and narcotics with the redemptive alternative of receiving the hope that Christ offers, transforming suffering into endurance and stamina, emphasizing that embracing Christ means gaining everything.Study deeper:https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/py6xzkhScriptures:Colossians 1:24-27 (ESV)ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

We are called to proclaim Christ with words and deeds, building a collective temple where God's glory manifests. By loving one another, we glorify God, bearing much fruit.Study further:https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/fjgfkdkScripture:Romans 1:16-17; Ephesians 2:19-22; John 17:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 2:7-12; Matthew 24:6-13; 1 Corinthians 12:28-31; 1 Corinthians 13:1-8; Ephesians 3:16- 19; 1 Peter 2:9-10 (NIV)ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch

United as God's family, we strive for a healthy church that nurtures new believers, mirroring the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice. Just as healthy families raise healthy children, a healthy church fosters healthy Christians. God's ultimate plan is to make us holy, whole and complete, shining forth His intended design. This is why Jesus' sacrifice was so profound. Healthy overseers safeguard God's household from disruptive influences.Study further:https://livingstreams.subspla.sh/t9tbn9bBible passages:Titus 1:5-11; Titus 2:1-14; Titus 3:1-15 (NIV)ABOUT LIVING STREAMSLiving Streams Church exists to be a healthy local church that creatively expands God's kingdom. We always seek to display God's glory, build courageous people, and engage in society's pain. Located in Phoenix, AZ.#livingstreamschurch CONNECT WITH LIVING STREAMSONLINE: http://www.livingstreams.orgINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/livingstreamschurchFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/livingstreamschurch