Compass Church Podcast

Jesus showed us the power of love when he said that loving God and loving our neighbor are the core of all religion. Love is the guiding principle in God's kingdom. But here's the thing: we all see love in our own way. What love means to you might be totally different from what it means to me. So, if love is different for everyone, how do we figure out the right way to love God and love our neighbor? MATTHEW 22:34-40 | Chris Shandrow

Is there marriage in heaven? Jesus responded in a way that suggests our earthly marriage relationships won't be the same. This passage has puzzled and troubled many, and some claim to have all the answers. The Bible contains many perplexing passages like this. How do we understand the questions they raise? How can we know what's true? MATTHEW 22:23-33 | Chris Shandrow

Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not? The Pharisees asked Jesus this trick question to trap him into saying something dangerous. This may sound like the debates today on whether the government takes too much or if everyone should chip in their fair share to help those in need. Jesus kept it simple: Give Caesar what belongs to Caesar. But is there more to the story? Discover what this question has to say about God and our relationship with him. MATTHEW 22:15-22 | Chris Shandrow

Jesus frequently talked about God's judgment. He devoted more attention to this topic than he did on getting into heaven. One troubling thing about these teachings is how he described the consequences of judgment. He often talked about a place where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. This sounds a lot like suffering. It sounds a lot like hell. This portrayal raises questions about the nature of God as a just and loving creator. Is Jesus suggesting an eternity of torment inflicted by God upon sinners, or is there a deeper meaning? What does weeping and gnashing of teeth mean? MATTHEW 22:13 | Chris Shandrow

God invites everyone to know Him and be part of His kingdom. However, while this inclusiveness is loving and full of grace, it raises a significant question: Can anyone enter regardless of their actions? What about abusers? What about those who harm children, exploit the weak, or revel in violence? What about people society considers evil? Do they earn a place in heaven just because they uttered a prayer once? Who gets in, who gets left out, and why? MATTHEW 22:11-14 | Chris Shandrow