LISTEN
Sharpen & Equip
Driving? At the gym? Working around the house? Whatever you’re doing, redeem that time by taking in theology and practical living with For the Gospel podcasts.
Does 2 Corinthians 8:9 Teach the "Prosperity Gospel?"
Prosperity preachers confuse a great deal of people by twisting 2 Corinthians 8:9 to mean that Jesus became poor so we could become financially rich. At first glance, this passage may even appear to be the slam-dunk verse for affirming the prosperity gospel. In this episode, Costi Hinn unpacks the context and interpretation of this crucial passage so we can apply it faithfully.
The Glory of God
The glory of God is a constant theme throughout the Bible. It is also mentioned frequently throughout church history. The Westminister Shorter Catechism describes the purpose of our existence this way: "Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever." In John 16:14, the Holy Spirit's purpose includes glorifying Jesus. Today, many songs include phrases like, "Show us your glory!" But what exactly is the glory of God?
Are Modern Day "Prophets" Reliable?
In today's world, identifying as a "prophet" can lead to power and profit. It is not uncommon to hear a preacher say, "I've got a word from the Lord for you!" as they appear to be more holy and have a greater connection to divine revelation than anyone else. The problem is, their word doesn't match God's word. Prophecy is trending as many seek revelation from God outside of His word. Schools of supernatural ministry tout programs that can teach you how to acquire and wield the gift of prophecy, and some people build entire ministries under the illusion that they hear from God better than you do. The question begs, what is biblical prophecy? Furthermore, can we depend on these modern day prophets? In this episode, Costi Hinn interviews Justin Peters on key truths about this important gift of the Spirit.
What is the Biblical Gift of Tongues?
What is the biblical gift of tongues and is it still in true operation today? Is it biblical when mass crowds speak in unintelligible speech with no interpretation? Is a "private prayer language" something we see in the Bible? These are important questions that Christians should have answers to. In this episode, Costi Hinn interviews Justin Peters on the biblical gift of speaking in tongues, and the two compare it to what many people claim is "speaking in tongues" today.
The Sufficiency of Scripture
In this episode Costi Hinn explains why the Bible is sufficient for everything we need to know God and live the Christian life. While many people are looking for wisdom outside of the Bible or chasing a new "word from the Lord," a believer only needs to look to Scripture for divine revelation from God.
Roman Catholicism vs. Christianity
Is Roman Catholicism "true Christianity?" In this episode, Costi Hinn quotes the Roman Catholic Church teachings that are in direct contradiction with the Bible and compares them to the true teaching of Scripture. This list is derived from Mike Gendron's excellent resources on Roman Catholicism and showcases why Roman Catholicism is blatant heresy and not merely a varying denomination of Christianity. It is not Christianity. You can learn more from Mike Gendron at proclaimingthegospel.org.
What is the Doctrine of "Atonement?"
The doctrine of the atonement is often twisted by false teachers and many Christians are not completely sure what the atonement of Christ is all about. Some preachers deny that God's wrath exists, preferring to proclaim a version of God who would never punish His Son to atone for sin. Others will sell the atonement as a "package deal," declaring that Jesus didn't merely die for your sins, but He died to make you happy, healthy, and wealthy too! The fact that the doctrine of the atonement is so frequently attacked by the Devil should make it of great interest to every Christian. Knowing this doctrine leads to hope, peace, and assurance about what Jesus has paid for, and what that means for you.
How to Understand the Sovereignty of God
The sovereignty of God can be one of the most challenging doctrines to wrap our human minds around. At times, it can be controversial as people debate how sovereign God is in relation to the free will of human beings. In this episode, Costi Hinn takes us back to the basics of God's sovereignty and challenges us to view this doctrine through the lens of Scripture alone.
What is Justification by Faith?
Many religions sell people on the notion that their good works can get them into heaven. People believe they can be justified and absolved of sin if they work hard enough to earn God's approval. But the Bible teaches that people are justified by faith, apart from works, and not based on their own merit. In this episode Costi Hinn explains the doctrine of justification by faith, the very doctrine that split the Protestant church from Roman Catholicism. Every Christian should understand this essential doctrine for their own growth, and for the purpose of sharing the true gospel with those who need to hear it.
How to Win Spiritual Warfare
In this episode Costi Hinn lays out a clear strategy for winning spiritual warfare. Spoiler alert: it has nothing to do with shouting "I rebuke you, Devil!" or putting olive oil on the heads of troubled church folks. Spiritual warfare is a battle for the mind, and we need to go back to God's word for our winning strategy.
What is Spiritual Warfare?
Spiritual warfare is a topic that many "experts" have opinions on, but they often miss the mark. Some will tell you that you need to rebuke the Devil out of everything, others will tell you that you have the "spirit of 'this'" or the "spirit of 'that.'" Still, some people imagine spiritual warfare as the Devil showing up at the foot of their bed one night with a pitchfork, red horns, and a pointy tail saying, “Here I am to get you!” But he’s smarter than that, so are his demons, and they are much more subtle than that — in most cases. In this episode, Costi Hinn unpacks the truth about spiritual warfare from Scripture so you can ignore the hypothetical opinions and get clarity from God's word.
What is the Doctrine of Election?
Does God choose to save certain people or do people choose to be saved? What would you say to someone who says, "A loving God would never force His will upon people?" What part does free will play in salvation? In this episode, Costi Hinn explains the doctrine of election and presents truths from God's word that should leave every believer more humble, thankful, merciful, and hopeful because if God can save you, He can save anybody!
Who is the Holy Spirit?
In this episode, Costi Hinn explains key truths about The Holy Spirit who is often the most neglected, misunderstood, and misrepresented member of the Trinity. Many of His works go unnoticed, while many foolish and outlandish practices are credited to Him. So how do you sift through the YouTube madness, the twisted version of the so-called Holy Spirit that some propogate, and come to truly know Him and His role in your life? For starters, study the Scriptures for yourself and refuse to be spoon-fed by cheap imitation and misinterpretation. God has given you the ability to go to His word concerning everything.
Barnabas Piper: What is True Happiness?
Does God want Christians to be happy? How should a Christian go about seeking happiness? What are the some of the dangerous ways that people go about trying to experience happiness? On this episode Costi Hinn interviews Barnabas Piper about the pursuit of happiness for the Christian and where ultimate happiness is found.
Dave Jenkins: Biblical Illiteracy & What To Do About It
In this episode, Costi Hinn interviews Dave Jenkins about the shocking statistics regarding biblical illiteracy and unpacks strategic steps every Christian can take to reverse this trend in their own life. How can we fight the good fight of faith if we cannot wield our sword?
Is “Tithing” 10% A Command for Christians?
Are you sinning or robbing God if you don't give 10% of your income to the church? Should poor people go into debt to accomplish this standard? Should very wealthy people stop giving once they've given their 10%? In this episode, Costi Hinn breaks down what is means to "tithe" and dispels myths and abuses surrounding this teaching. In addition, he explains the New Testament model for generosity and giving so that all Christians can joyfully participate in supporting gospel work, while avoiding common pitfalls with this teaching.
Mike Fabarez: Raising Men, Not Boys
In this episode, Costi Hinn interviews Mike Fabarez on how to guide, disciple, teach, and bond with sons. Mike Fabarez is the author of "Raising Men, Not Boys," the founding pastor of Compass Bible Church in South Orange County, California, and is heard on hundreds of radio programs across the country on the Focal Point radio program. He and his wife, Carlynn, reside in Laguna Hills, California and they have three children, Matthew, John and Stephanie.
Reagan Rose: How to be a Productive Christian
In this episode Costi Hinn interviews one of the key contributors to getting For the Gospel up and running. Reagan Rose provides insights for using online media to resource your church and reinforces the importance of Christians engaging in worship, discipleship, and evangelism in person. If you're looking to keep the priority of the local church at the top of your missional effort, while utilizing creative excellence and media for outreach and equipping, this episode will spur you on.
Jesse Randolph: If God is Sovereign, Why Evangelize?
In this episode Costi Hinn interviews Jesse Randolph on the sovereignty of God and evangelism. Many people think, "If God is sovereign in salvation, why evangelize anyone at all?" Some genuinely want to understand this theological subject, while others use God's sovereignty as an excuse for not trying to save people! This conversation takes a deeper dive into the beautiful reality that every believer can embrace: God is sovereign in salvation, and people are responsible for responding to God. Who will God save through your faithfulness?
Tony Wood: How to Study Your Bible
In this episode Costi Hinn interviews Anthony Wood as he lays out excellent Bible study tips that will take you deeper into God's Word. From new believers, to those who feel like their study has grown stale, this episode will supercharge your ability to unpack Scripture and grow closer to Jesus.