Wrong Ideas - Lenten Dinner Series

In this concluding conversation on the Gospel of John, Pastors Clint and Michael reflect on what makes John such a theological heavyweight among the four Gospels. They unpack how John departs from the narrative style of the synoptics, instead offering a layered, reflective, and theologically rich portrayal of Jesus. The discussion touches on why John might not be the best introduction to Jesus for new readers, yet is an essential book for those looking to go deeper into themes like incarnation, the Trinity, and the bold claims of Christ. The pastors also explore the risks and rewards of John's complex approach, including its portrayal of Jesus' divinity, the book's evangelistic tone, and how it has been misused or misunderstood over the centuries. Whether you’re a first-time reader or a seasoned theologian, this wrap-up will help you see why John continues to captivate and challenge. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.c

In this final study of the Gospel of John, Pastors Clint and Michael unpack the powerful conclusion of the book, where John makes clear that his testimony about Jesus is both personal and true. The conversation explores how John’s unique gospel ends—not with a dramatic miracle, but with a quiet, profound statement about the vastness of Christ and the impossibility of capturing his full story in words. The pastors reflect on the roles of Peter and John, the significance of bearing witness, and the evangelistic heart behind John’s writing. They also highlight how this gospel intentionally points beyond itself, reminding believers that every act of faithful testimony adds to the ongoing story of Jesus. It’s a fitting and theologically rich ending that emphasizes both the purpose and power of proclaiming Christ. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much mo

In this final conversation between Jesus and Peter in the Gospel of John, we see a powerful reminder of what it means to follow faithfully without comparison. As Peter turns to ask about the beloved disciple’s future, Jesus redirects him with the striking command, “What is that to you? Follow me.” Clint and Michael explore the possible historical and theological backdrop of this exchange, discussing the early church’s fascination with John and the rumors that surrounded his life. They reflect on how the communities that received these texts shaped and were shaped by them, and how human dynamics like competition and admiration were already at play in the early Christian world. The episode concludes with a practical and pastoral takeaway: the call to focus on our own walk with Christ instead of comparing ourselves to others. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, em

In this episode, Clint and Michael walk us through one of the most intimate and powerful moments in the Gospel of John—Jesus’s restoration of Peter. After breakfast on the beach, Jesus confronts Peter with three poignant questions: "Do you love me?" Each time, Jesus links Peter’s love to action—feed my lambs, tend my sheep. This tender exchange not only heals Peter’s three denials but also commissions him for a life of sacrificial service. The conversation goes on to foreshadow Peter’s future faithfulness—even unto death—and serves as a reminder that discipleship is never just a feeling, but always a call to follow. With pastoral insight and theological depth, Clint and Michael explore how grace, calling, and obedience intersect in the life of every Christian. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions

In this episode of Pastor Talk, Clint and Michael explore one of the most profound and nuanced resurrection appearances in the Gospel of John. As the disciples return from a fruitless night of fishing, Jesus appears on the shore with a charcoal fire, fish, and bread already prepared. The symbolism is rich: the fire echoes Peter’s denial, the meal recalls the feeding of the 5,000, and the catch of 153 fish suggests divine abundance. Most striking is the invitation—“Come and have breakfast”—a simple yet deeply meaningful act of grace and restoration. Join us as we unpack how John's storytelling weaves together themes of failure, redemption, mystery, and mission in this final chapter. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastortalk.co#connect Interested in joinin

In this episode, Clint and Michael explore the powerful beginning of John 21, where the resurrected Jesus meets his disciples on the shore while they fish in futility. This seemingly simple story of a miraculous catch is loaded with theological depth—echoing resurrection themes, calling back to earlier moments in Jesus’ ministry, and confronting the disciples with the “what now?” of post-Easter life. From the symbolism of daybreak to Peter’s fully-clothed dive into the sea, this passage invites us to reflect on what it means to follow Jesus on the other side of the resurrection. Join us as we unpack the significance of nets, callings, and life-altering encounters with Christ. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastortalk.co#connect Interested in joining us f

In today's study, we reflect on the powerful conclusion of John chapter 20, where the Gospel writer steps out from behind the story to tell us directly why he wrote his account. Clint and Michael explore how John’s purpose wasn’t to offer a comprehensive biography of Jesus, but to give readers enough to believe and find life in Christ’s name. They discuss how this moment acts like a bridge between the resurrection appearances and what follows, and why this seemingly "ending" moment is so deeply personal to every believer. This passage reminds us that faith isn't just about seeing miracles—it's about trusting the story handed down for our sake. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastortalk.co#connect Interested in joining us for worship on Sunday at 8:50am? J

In this episode, Clint and Michael explore the famous story of "Doubting Thomas" in John 20 with fresh eyes. What happens when belief doesn’t come easily? What does Jesus do when someone demands proof? Rather than scolding, Jesus meets Thomas right where he is—with grace and an invitation to believe. The conversation highlights how this moment speaks to all of us who have ever wrestled with faith, asked for a sign, or struggled to trust. Ultimately, the story isn’t just about doubt—it's about the blessing of faith that doesn’t depend on sight. Join us as we consider what it means to believe when faith needs proof. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastortalk.co#connect Interested in joining us for worship on Sunday at 8:50am? Join us at https://fpcspiritlak

In this episode, we dive into John 20:19-23, where Jesus appears to his disciples behind locked doors on the evening of Easter. Still reeling from fear and confusion, the disciples encounter the risen Christ, who offers them peace, breathes the Holy Spirit into them, and sends them out with a mission of forgiveness. We explore the power of Jesus' presence in fearful spaces, the theological echoes of Genesis in the act of breathing new life, and what it means to be sent people even in uncertain times. This short but powerful passage packs deep meaning for how we understand resurrection, mission, and the church’s calling. Join us for a thoughtful reflection on peace, purpose, and the mysterious grace of the risen Christ. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastort

In this episode of Pastor Talk, we dive into one of the most intimate and surprising moments in the Gospel of John—Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Christ. As she grieves at the tomb, she mistakes Jesus for the gardener—until he calls her by name. What follows is a profound exchange that redefines relationship, faith, and the mission of the church. Clint and Michael explore the theological shock of women being the first witnesses to the resurrection, the mysterious nature of the resurrected Jesus, and the deep spiritual significance of being known by name. This powerful scene reminds us that resurrection is not just an event—it’s a personal call to see, believe, and share the good news. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastortalk.co#connect Intere

In this episode, Clint and Michael explore the first scene of John's Easter narrative in chapter 20, diving deep into the moment Mary Magdalene discovers the empty tomb and the footrace between Peter and the "beloved disciple"—presumed to be John. The discussion highlights the uniquely Johannine details that emphasize the personal witness, symbolic actions like the folded grave clothes, and how belief often precedes full understanding. They reflect on the theological significance of light and darkness, the evolving faith of the disciples, and the subtle pushback against resurrection skepticism woven into the text. It's a thoughtful conversation about how Easter isn't just a moment—it's a movement of growing faith. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastortalk.c

In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked but deeply significant story of Jesus’ burial in John 19. As Holy Week nears its climax, we meet two unexpected figures—Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus—who step forward in a moment of remarkable courage and reverence. Once a secret follower, Joseph publicly requests Jesus’ body, while Nicodemus, who once came to Jesus under the cover of night, returns bearing 100 pounds of burial spices. We dive into the symbolism of the garden tomb, the deeper theological echoes from earlier in the Gospel, and how this burial scene subtly mirrors Jesus’ birth narrative. It’s a rich and meaningful conversation about transformation, honor, and the power of small details in John’s storytelling. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://

In this episode of Pastor Talk, Clint and Michael reflect on one of the most enigmatic and powerful moments in the Gospel of John — the piercing of Jesus’ side and the flow of blood and water. They explore how John’s unique crucifixion narrative focuses not on cosmic signs or external drama, but on intimate, symbolic details that reveal Jesus' fulfillment of Scripture and his identity as Messiah. The discussion highlights John's surprising use of prophecy at this point in the story, the physical and theological implications of blood and water, and why John’s simplicity at the cross is actually profoundly intentional. It’s a moving, thoughtful dive into how John sets the stage for the miracle to come. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastortalk.co#connect I

Join Pastors Clint and Michael for the final conversation in this Lenten series exploring grief and loss. In this episode the Pastors explore how the Christian understanding of life after death (and heaven) impacts Christian grief.

In this episode, we explore one of the most powerful and deeply human moments in the Gospel of John—Jesus' words from the cross. As he nears death, Jesus turns his attention not to himself, but to his mother and the beloved disciple, offering a profound act of compassion and care. We dig into what this tells us about Jesus' character, the nature of divine love, and the expanding circle of spiritual family. We also reflect on the phrase “I am thirsty” and its surprising connection to Jesus’ first miracle at Cana, before unpacking the monumental final words: “It is finished.” What does it mean for the Word made flesh to declare his mission complete? Join us for a theologically rich and emotionally grounded journey to the foot of the cross. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with

In this powerful discussion from John 19, Pastors Clint and Michael explore John's unique portrayal of the crucifixion. Unlike other Gospels, John emphasizes Jesus’ control and purpose, highlighting the quiet sovereignty of Christ as he carries his own cross. The episode explores Pilate’s ironic inscription—“Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews”—as a moment of accidental truth, written in the languages of the known world. The pastors reflect on the theological weight of this detail, as well as John's rare use of prophetic fulfillment in the soldiers’ division of Jesus’ clothes. This study offers a compelling look at how John uses irony, minimalism, and layered meaning to preach a message of Jesus’ kingship even in death. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastor

In this episode, we explore the tense and dramatic scene of Jesus before Pilate in John 19:8-16. Clint and Michael unpack Pilate’s internal struggle, the religious leaders' shocking declaration of loyalty to Caesar, and the complex political and spiritual dynamics at play. This is not just a story of trial and execution—it's a collision of empires, egos, and eternal purposes. We examine how fear, self-preservation, and power lead each character to play their part in Jesus’s crucifixion, and how, even in apparent weakness, Jesus remains firmly in control. From subtle literary cues to jaw-dropping theological implications, this discussion brings the tension of Holy Week into sharp and thoughtful focus. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastortalk.co#connect I

In this Session, Pastors Clint and Michael explore the various ways that we can both help (and sometimes NOT help) those who grieve by what we do and say when we try to support them in their grief.

In this episode, Clint and Michael explore one of the most ironic and haunting moments in the Gospel of John—when the crowd chooses to release Barabbas, a known bandit, instead of Jesus. As Pilate repeatedly declares Jesus' innocence, the narrative builds around themes of power, blindness, and spiritual misunderstanding. The conversation highlights how John portrays Jesus not as a victim, but as a sovereign figure fully aware of His path to the cross. The discussion also tackles the historic misuse of the term "the Jews" and the importance of interpreting it with nuance. Ultimately, this passage invites listeners to confront the tragic reality that the very people awaiting a Messiah were blind to His presence among them. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pasto

In this episode of our journey through the Gospel of John, we explore Jesus' powerful and layered encounter with Pontius Pilate in John 18:28–38. As Jesus stands before Rome’s authority, He makes the profound claim that His kingdom is “not of this world.” We reflect on Pilate’s iconic question—“What is truth?”—and consider how John’s Gospel paints Pilate in a surprisingly sympathetic light while placing the true weight of responsibility elsewhere. The discussion dives into the irony, tension, and theological brilliance of John's writing as Jesus remains sovereign even in His trial. From empire politics to spiritual truth, this conversation exposes the depth of a kingdom that defies earthly expectations. Pastor Talk Quick Links: Learn more about the Pastor Talk series and view our previous studies at https://pastortalk.co Subscribe to get the Pastor Talk episodes via podcast, email and much more! https://pastortalk.co#subscribe Questions or ideas? Connect with us! https://pastortalk.co#connect