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Searching for a Faith That Works, Bill Vanderbush – SOZO EP0012

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Searching for a Faith That Works, with Bill Vanderbush

Have you ever been seeking advice from a pastor or a counselor and posed a question framing it with, “a friend of mine struggles with…” and it was really about you?

Yup. I did that… in this interview. This talk became my own personal sermon and it was extremely helpful (and I am sure it will assist you in your faith journey with God as well). In this interview I wanted to get at the heart of what God would want my faith journey to look like.  I’d also like to stop sabotaging myself and running away from God in fear.

Bill Vanderbush pastors Community Presbyterian Church in Celebration Florida right outside Disney World. I had previously interviewed Bill Vanderbush about a book he coauthored with Ted Dekker called The Forgotten Way. Check that Interview out here! He also tours about the country speaking at conferences.

Bill Vanderbush Spoke at Accelerant Conference

Bill came to Green Bay Wisconsin on May 17th through 19th, 2018 to speak at the Accelerant conference held at Elevation Church!

burning-bush

Accelerant: a substance used to aid the spread of fire.

The intention of the Accelerant Conference is to take an existing flame, Christ in you, and turn in into an inferno. So that you, the burning bush, will “burn faster and brighter and hotter and better than ever before. The purpose isn’t to start or spark a revival but to sow into an existing move of God that we recognize is happening”. – Bill Vanderbush (Conference speaker)

It was said of Jesus that he would baptize (“immerse”) us with the Holy Spirit and with fire. Jesus once said, “I have come to set the world on fire, and I wish it were already burning!” (Luke 12:49)

What did he mean by this?

Well, knowing Jesus, if he wanted the world on fire, then this HAS to be a really good thing!

As you seek God, may your heart be filled with expectancy (Not Expectations!) of what God might do to bring transformation in your life. Yes, I know it takes courage to actively move toward change. But you can trust the Changer (Jesus) to move you into something far better than you’ve ever known before!

Searching For a Faith That Works with Bill Vanderbush Interview Show Notes

How do we stop sinning and living a life pleasing to God?

How do we cultivate a close relationship with God and other believers?

What is the difference between Scripture and the Word of God?

Why do people (I) self-sabotage?

What do you say or pray for someone who seemingly has no spiritual hunger?

What does it mean to be under the jurisdiction of the New Testament?

Scriptures we discuss:

2 Timothy 2:15 (NLT)

“Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. 16 Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior. 17 This kind of talk spreads like cancer, as in the case of Hymenaeus and Philetus. 18 They have left the path of truth, claiming that the resurrection of the dead has already occurred; in this way, they have turned some people away from the faith.

19 But God’s truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are his,” and “All who belong to the Lord must turn away from evil.”

2 Timothy 4:1-5 (NLT)

I solemnly urge you in the presence of God and Christ Jesus, who will someday judge the living and the dead when he appears to set up his Kingdom: Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.

For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths.

But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you.

Years ago after reading that verse about looking for teachers to suit their desires. I had the thought that what our ears itch to hear is something hard. Some rules that we can keep or some hoops to jump through so that our ego can be involved in our own salvation.

It seems that the truth of the Gospel is that we rest in the finished work of Christ we don’t add anything to it. Jesus, whose name means “I AM Salvation” is the author and finisher of our salvation. Jesus leaves no one out. He left no sin out. It is our choice to embrace this new life Jesus offers us and get established in his love and the Fathers embrace. To fan into flames the love of God within us.

As Paul wrote to Timothy,

“I remember your genuine faith . This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”
(2 Timothy 1:5-7)

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Overcoming a Sex Cult, Kristina – SOZO EP0011

not-without-my-sister

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Kristina is not just a survivor but an overcomer! She was born and raised in the infamous sex cult Children of God (aka The Family International) and suffered all kinds of terrible abuse from those claiming to be missionaries for Jesus. Kristina, along with her sisters Celeste and Julianna, have written a best-selling book called Not Without My Sister about their experience in the Children of God cult.

not-without-my-sister-sex-cult-survivors
Available on Amazon – $3.00 for Kindle!

Ephesians 5:11 says, “Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.”

The book Not Without My Sister reminded me of the Holocaust museum; as if to say, “Never Forget”. May we all learn from the past and never repeat these mistakes. I believe this book is important for humanity.

On Kindle Here:

A few episodes ago I interviewed Kristina’s sister Celeste. It was this interview that made me start taking my role here on Sozo Talk Radio more seriously. I realized how precious each of our lives and stories are. Each of us play a role in this “play” of life and are threads contributing to the tapestry of the story of humanity.

What kind of story are you telling with your life?

David Berg chose to tell the worst kind of story. He abused the innocent and sexually tortured little girls. Berg encouraged sexual relations between adults and children and even taught the adults to sexualize their children as toddlers. Countless families were torn apart by this cult. People were brainwashed, manipulated, and controlled through fear and harsh discipline.

Berg maintained and profited from one of the largest prostitution and human trafficking rings. He implemented a practice called flirty fishing which quickly turned into prostitution for the group.

Many in the cult, mostly the children, suffered greatly while he was living like a king. He believed himself to be the reincarnated David of Ezekiel 37 and his family was called the royal family. He took the title “Moses David” and wrote “Mo letters”. These Mo letters were sometimes pornographic, contained antisemitic hate speech (calling Hitler a hero), and were filled with fearful end times rhetoric. (I wrote more at Celeste’s interview here).

David Berg was truly an enemy of Christ  and is an example what happens when we embrace and implement the sexual revolution of the late 60’s into Christianity. Sexual immorality is the real problem. Sex is only meant to be enjoyed between a husband and wife. We have seen over and over and over again the pain and problems that occur when this gift from God is taken out of the context of marriage and misused and abused.

What God Wants For You

God is a loving Father who wants the best for his children. It is always best to remain in the care of our Good Shepherd where we are so richly provided for. We cheat ourselves and harm others when we fail to trust our Good Shepherd and choose sin instead. Of course there is forgiveness and grace and healing so we can once again learn to live the way he designed.

We are here to learn love. We are meant to learn how to be fully present and alive – to enjoy the abundant life Jesus gives us!

I look at Kristina and Celeste and see that they are examples that anyone can learn to forgive and heal – as Kristina puts it, “to forgive is to absorb the pain and bring it to an end”.

My Hell on Earth (Story of Verity Carter)

In this interview we discuss and read a portion of the Sunday Times article of how Verity, a dear friend of Kristina, bravely came forward to expose the abuse she suffered while in the cult.

Click Here to read more of the story of Verity Carter who just won a court case against her father who had raised Verity in this sex cult, The Children of God.

Excerpt (Discretion is advised):

“A sex cult survivor has spoken for the first time about the abuse she suffered while growing up in the notorious Children of God sect.

Verity Carter was repeatedly raped and abused, forced on to the streets to trick people into donating money and taught how to conceal her torment from social workers and teachers.

Verity, now a 38-year-old Edinburgh mum, said: “My earliest memories are from the age of four, being abused by my own father.

“He would touch me and kiss me in a way that made me feel so uncomfortable. I would cry and beg him not to.

“If I complained, I was told that I must have a demon inside me because sex was love, and love was what God wanted us to show each other…”

(Read more here: https://www.sundaypost.com/fp/my-hell-on-earth/)

Kristina’s Faith Journey

What I find so remarkable is that even though she was abused in the name of Christ, Kristina has maintained her faith in Christ. She talked about how she actually believed the Word of God (as we all should) that she was forced to memorize and how it led her to bravely speak the truth no matter the cost. Christ has been her source of comfort and strength through it all.

Of course she says that her faith journey wasn’t without those seasons of confusion and setbacks that we all face. We are all on a journey and she speaks in this interview about respecting where other people are currently at in their journey and loving them as they are.

I was greatly inspired and encouraged that she kept her faith when I have heard stories of so many other second generation COG members losing their faith and hope and ended up committing suicide. I just want to say to any other xfamily members:

There is hope and healing through forgiveness and in relationship with the real Jesus. I know there are likely a load of lies that still keep you from enjoying life to the full.  Sorting it out and coming through that darkness will take time and perseverance. Please know there are people who care and I am one of them. We must learn to forgive in order to heal from the past.

Jesus is our hope, strength, and comfort and will see us through whatever trauma or tragedy life has to offer. Lean on him!

Other questions I ask Kristina:

What was it like growing up in a cult The Children Of God?

One of my favorite quotes you share:

“Evil can only prevail when good people do nothing.”

“What you are fed in a cult is a lie sandwich. It takes some time to sort out truth from error.”

“The truth will set you free.”

“To forgive is to absorb the pain and bring it to an end”

What it was like growing up in a broken home?

Talk about what was it like being such a public figure in the fight to expose this sex cult?

How can we help people trapped in cults?

What would you tell someone who just came out of the TFI cult?

How do we find forgiveness?

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Sharon Milliman, Near Death Experience – SOZO EP0010

jesus-cross-wrath

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“Trusting God allows me to love him more freely. Loving God more fully enables me to love others with a more open heart and with unconditional love.” – Sharon Milliman

Sharon Milliman had a Near Death Experience (NDE) when she was struck by lightning. She went to heaven and relates her story of meeting Jesus (again) and the angels in her book called, “A Song in the Wind” (available at Amazon) and in this interview!

This episode may not be for everyone. But there are those like me who are overly spiritually curious and perhaps are already exploring what can be known or discovered though Near Death Experiences (NDE). Some others might not be ready for what we discuss.

What You Must Know About the Near Death Experience

Truth be told, and I’ve said this a hundred times before, NDE research is a dangerous field of study. From the get-go in this interview, I encourage people to cross examine everything that we say, or that any Near Death Experience account may say, with the Holy Scriptures.

Your soul is precious and valuable! As much as I, or anyone else, may care about your spiritual health, you must be in the care of, and under the guidance of, your Good Shepherd. You know, the One who created you and gave his life for you.

While it is true that I (and my sister Sharon) are in relationship with Mr. Truth, you have to find him for yourself. Jesus alone is, “the Way, the Truth, and the Life” (John 14:6) and “There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

Who Do You Trust?

The Word of God (Jesus) and the Holy Scriptures are the plumb-line for all truth, not anyones experience! I mean, which would you sooner believe? Your own eyes and an experience, or God’s word?

Of course, sadly, who wouldn’t say, “My own eyes and experience”? This is why God can only move us along our spiritual growth process so far (as far as you are willing) in this life. We are often trapped by faulty and piss poor experiences. This is why we must experience Jesus for ourselves.

What if God is more interested in the conversation and relationship and how well we love each other than how “right” we are? What if our being “right” doesn’t matter as much as we thought?

I say all of this because Sharon and myself have had experiences. I’m not even suggesting that her experience was not from God. If I thought that it wasn’t, I wouldn’t be interviewing her. What I’m trying to do here is to get you to think about how you process truth and what you let into your basement vaults.

Have you ever seen the movie Inception? What are you letting into your basement vault? Is there something other than the truth that you are allowing to to be the lens though which you base your perception of reality? Who is determining your worldview? Is it Jesus, the Light of the World? Is it the Holy Scriptures? Or you?

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.”
(Proverbs 3:5-6)

Sharon Near Death Experience:

Some of you might be aware that I had interviewed Howard Storm in SOZO EP002. I have been researching NDE’s since the beginning of 2014 and besides Howards story, Sharon’s account has been one of the most thorough and interesting accounts I have come across. I especially love how in love with Jesus she has been for all her life.

From what I read in Sharon’s book, it is obvious to me that she is a seer – able to see angels and demons and departed souls in the spiritual realm all around us. Of course this is something that many experience. I have interviewed many on this show that are seers such as pastor Aaron Peterson SOZO EP0008 . Even I have something of a seer gift.

Questions I ask Sharon:

Tell me about being able to see angels as a child. So they comforted you by singing songs to you to calm your fears of the dark and they were holding something that looked like candles or boxes of gold?

What was it like when Jesus appeared to you and those you were with in person for the first time?

Struck By Lightning and Meeting God

You describe after being struck by lightning being in pink and gold clouds.

“I was in awe of such beauty and I felt such a deep sense of peace and complete love. The love was so big so huge so complete and felt so deep. I was just basking in this deep beautiful love. I felt whole, complete and totally accepted.”

Describe your experience of heaven? At your life review it was revealed that God didn’t judge you but that you judged yourself. You are one of many Near Death Experiencers who have said this. It does remind me of many Scriptures. Paul says to some Jews that they judged themselves unworthy of eternal life.  Jesus said God has given him all the judgement and that he doesn’t judge:

John 5:21-23 “For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom He wishes. Furthermore, the Father judges no one, but has assigned all judgment to the Son, so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.”

John 8:15 “You judge according to the flesh; I judge no one.”

Of course we must take into account all of what the Scriptures say on the subject, don’t we?

My own name means “God is my Judge”. In the book of Daniel God judges in favor of the saints – those he has made holy – those who trust in him. Pauls letter to the Romans tells us, “It is God who justifies, so who is he who condemns?”

Jesus himself says, “Do not judge and you will not be judged.”

Interesting. It seems that whenever we judge (condemn) another, we judge (condemn) ourselves.

Sometimes  I think that most Christians are unaware of what the Bible actually says and that the Scriptures are true in ways most Christians cannot accept.

We judged Love as unworthy of love but of a cross instead. Love went willingly to a cross to absorb all our wrath and love us through to the other side of all our confused rage and reconciled us once and for all back to himself and back into himself.

Further Reading:

This is why finding the way of love and forgiveness is so important!

I love the closing sentence of Sharon’s book:

“Forgiveness is the greatest form of unconditional love and acceptance and it is the key to true happiness. Forgiveness is the chance to begin again to create a new and bright future and a beautiful life.”

Check out the Interview for the rest of what we talk about. Leave me comment if you like. Subscribe if you dare.

Here is her book:

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Chris Bilotto, Near Death Experiences & Encounters with God – SOZO EP0009

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“No one wants an argument about God, we all want an experience of God!” – Chris Bilotto

Introducing one of my brothers in Christ, Chris Bilotto! In this conversation we talk about Near Death Experiences, encounters with God, and much more.

EXPERIENCING THE SUPERNATURAL

chris billotoChris has had some very interesting experiences with the supernatural! When Chris was young his family became the target of a Satanic cult. They cursed the family and abducted and slaughtered his dogs. All because his mom Patty, who was a counselor at the time, was trying to help someone break free from the cult. Chris told me of seeing shadows and feeling a demonic presence and even how a demon tried to convince him to slice his wrists as a six-year-old.

How Chris came to faith in Jesus Christ is a very interesting and funny story! Not to mention VERY supernatural! When he prayed to receive Christ, Chris saw the glory cloud and heavenly lights and was embraced by an angel (or Jesus?). He felt the most profound love he’s ever experienced so far. He also saw a host of angels in the room.At the time Chris just accepted it all as normal or a “part of the show” at the particular event he was at. (This testimony starts after 35:00)

NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCES

Chris and I have had a shared interest in Near Death Experiences (NDE) and have talked about our research into them over the past year. In Sozo Talk Radio Episode 0002 I interviewed Howard Storm, a Near Death Experiencer, who met with Jesus and the angels. Jesus told Howard his plan to change the world is for each one of us “to love the person you are with”.

Chris talked about knowing someone who had a Near Death Experience and he shares her story. My own sister had a NDE which I will share eventually I’m sure.

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING

Chris and I discuss how what we most want in church is to belong to a family who loves us. Love is FAR more important than that we all agree with each other!

I even said in this talk how I would really worry if you were to agree with me completely all the time. I don’t even agree with myself most of the time. All of us thinking the same is what cults do. It’s okay that we disagree! What is important is that we are in a growing relationship with Mr. Truth Himself, The Lord Jesus Christ.

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

The enemy is after us! We are in a very real war between good and evil, light and darkness. Thankfully we have the Truth on our side, Jesus! There is power of the Name of Jesus! The enemies of God hate his Name! It is the Name and authority of Jesus that overcomes and casts out the kingdom of darkness.

“This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: “Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.” – Isaiah 30:15

We, as the family of God, are in the business of displacing the darkness with the Kingdom of Light and Love. My buddy Chris is a spiritual warrior of God’s love. Glad to have him for a friend.

Thank you for listening!

If you live in Northeast Wisconsin, check out our church for conferences and services here: https://www.facebook.com/elevationchurchwi

Elevation Church WI

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Encountering God, Prophecy, & Awakening with Aaron Peterson – SOZO EP0008

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the-seer-anointing-aaron-petersonEnjoy this interview/convo I have with Aaron Peterson about prophecy and the current Awakening that is exploding in this world. People are waking up to who Jesus really is and our brilliant new identity in him!

Aaron is the author of The Seer Anointing and one of the pastors at Elevation Church in Green Bay, WI. The Seer Anointing is an amazing book and Aaron and I plan to do another interview just about this book in the near future. (Which you can now listen to here!)

ELEVATION Church Green Bay

Elevation Church WI

Location of Elevation Church: 2605 S Oneida St Green Bay, WI 54304

Elevation Church WI Map

What is Prophecy?

As Aaron says, “Prophecy isn’t all the hooky spooky, heebie jeebie stuff you might be thinking. It’s a relationship with God that’s more than a monologue.” Prophecy is first about realizing that you already hear God better than you think. How do we then honor His voice better? How do we tune into his voice and enjoy this relationship with God like never before? Prophecy is about hearing the loving heartbeat and thoughts that God has for you and for others. It’s all about encountering and truly knowing God as a dear friend.

“But one who prophesies strengthens others, encourages them, and comforts them.” – 1 Corinthians 14:2 

“For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” NASB
“For the essence of prophecy is to give a clear witness for Jesus.” NLT – Revelation 19:10

I am really excited about what God is doing in his family in this Great Awakening we are in! Elevation Church Green Bay seems to be a hotspot for this Awakening.

Other Questions I ask Aaron:

Why are you a Christ follower?

What does Jesus mean to you?

What is one of your most wonderful encounters with Jesus you have had? (Aaron shares a really deep encounter he had with Jesus and his grandfather.)

Dealing with harassment from the enemy and SPIRITUAL WARFARE!

Is what we often call stress or anxiety actually an attack from the enemy?

How would you define sin and how does this interfere in our relationship or fellowship with God?

What is our identity in Christ.

Remaining Humble

What about confessing our faults to each other as a way of being humble? The Bible even says that Elijah was a man just like us. How do we stay small in our own eyes instead of getting an entitled mentality? How do we remain a humble servant like Jesus modeled?

Do you believe that no one is more special or important than another?

But instead of taking anyone else down a notch, doesn’t this mean that we honor one another?

Creating a culture of honor.

THE GREAT AWAKENING!

Are we in one now? Or at the beginnings of one?

From glory to ever-increasing glory in this relationship with God!

Let’s talk about the heresy of Cessationism.

“Jesus died on the cross to give us a great inheritance as the children of God.”  – Aaron

What is that inheritance? How do we partner with and align ourselves with Holy Spirit to make sure people are getting the full inheritance that he died to give us?

Encountering God

How important is it to encounter God for ourselves?

Many have linked these real encounters with God with the word mystic… do you think that is a fair assessment or use of the word?

mys·tic
ˈmistik/
noun

1. 1.
a person who seeks by contemplation and self-surrender to obtain unity with or absorption into the Deity or the absolute, or who believes in the spiritual apprehension of truths that are beyond the intellect.

The Greek word mysterion was used by Paul a great deal about our understanding of Christ. It seems it was one of his favorite words.

Our Mystic Journey with Christ

“If the things going on in the church aren’t going to freak people out, what are we doing?  What are we gathering for? To encounter God? Are you willing to accept the risks with that? Are you Okay with the consequences of a real encounter with God?” – Aaron

SCHOOL OF THE PROPHETS 2018

When and Where is this happening?

Why do you call it this?

Who is this conference for?

Do you have to be a prophet to come?

What does prophecy mean?

 

I think there are many who fear that people might be using “prophecy” in a way that is harmful, to perhaps manipulate others, as an ego trip of the prophet himself, or giving words that conflict with the revealed word of God.

What do you say to those who say that the role of prophet is not for today? That we have the complete finished Word of God so there is no need for prophets?

Finally, we talk about experiencing the Joy of the Lord – one of the three pillars of the essence Kingdom of God – “…Righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.”

So what about Holy Laughter? (btw, here is my blog I reference in the convo with Aaron: https://daniellovett.com/2015/08/03/conversion-of-charles-finney/)

P.S. I had previously interviewed Ryan Kibbe, the senior pastor of Elevation Church WI. Listen to that HERE!

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Saint Patrick Letter to the Soldiers of Coroticus

life of st patrick

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This letter of Saint Patrick to the soldiers of Coroticus is one of two documents that scholars think were penned by Patrick himself. The other is St Patrick’s Confession which I did a reading of and wrote a blog about here: St Patricks Confession

If you would like to read Patrick’s Letter to the Soldiers for yourself, here is where you can find it: http://www.righteousnessislove.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Saint-Patrick-Letter-to-the-soldiers-of-Coroticus.pdf

In the following Youtube video (which is different from the podcast reading of the letter above!) Michael and I discuss with great humor and insight the life of St Patrick and touch upon some of the details of this letter. We talk in Irish accents and joke around a great deal! It was truly one of the funniest and funnest  episode I have done to date!

Contents of Patricks Letter to the Soldiers of Coroticus

I find that Patrick is quite serious about Scripture! He has a healthy fear of God that we could all learn from. Patrick notes the fact that if Jesus and the Apostles never lied, and neither should we. We must remain faithful to the truth even if all the world around us refuses to.

The truth often stings. Especially when it is a word of rebuke or correction. But the Scriptures are for this very purpose!

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” 2 Timothy 3:16

Patrick’s letter points out the obvious, that there are severe consequences for our poor actions. Crime never pays. That sin bears it’s own punishment. You will reap what you sow. He quotes Scripture again and again proving his case.

Love and the transforming power of the Good News of Jesus is the only answer!

celtic-cross

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St. Patrick’s Confession – SOZO EP0007

the real st patrick

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Enjoy this reading of St. Patrick Confession – with hilariously unique intro and read with an accent!

The only thing you really need to know about St. Patrick is that he was fond of all things green – wearing green robes (as you can see from the very accurate portrayal of him below), was fond of drinking green beer, giving out shamrocks, and dancing with leprechauns. He carried a staff and with it drove all the snakes out of Ireland (I heard from from a reliable source that he put ’em all in a wooden box and threw ’em in the river).

st patrick snakes

What can truly be known of the life of St. Patrick? Many legends and myths surround the man but thankfully there are two documents that scholars believe to have been written by Patrick himself. The Confessio and his Epistola. (Source material for these and much other historical evidence can be found HERE).

Here is the episode where I read St Patrick’s Epistola or his “Letter to the Soldiers of Coroticus”!

St Patrick and His Breastplate

st patrick breastplateSorry, but “St. Patrick’s” Breastplate does not seem to have been written by the man himself. A friend of mine really digs this writing, however, so maybe it’s worth checking out?

My favorite line of “Patrick’s” Breastplate prayer/hymn is:

“Christ in the poop”

Christ certainly does enter our poop to be with us when we insist on sitting in it, doesn’t he? The angels are ever changing our poopy diapers when we choose sin. I don’t know too many who aren’t actively playing in the poop. Maybe I need some more friends who actually know and love Jesus?

Okay, so he is actually referencing the poop deck on a ship… or so I would imagine.

Here is the entire poem (thanks Wikipedia):

I bind to myself today
The strong virtue of the Invocation of the Trinity:
I believe the Trinity in the Unity
The Creator of the Universe.
I bind to myself today
The virtue of the Incarnation of Christ with His Baptism,
The virtue of His crucifixion with His burial,
The virtue of His Resurrection with His Ascension,
The virtue of His coming on the Judgement Day.
I bind to myself today
The virtue of the love of seraphim,
In the obedience of angels,
In the hope of resurrection unto reward,
In prayers of Patriarchs,
In predictions of Prophets,
In preaching of Apostles,
In faith of Confessors,
In purity of holy Virgins,
In deeds of righteous men.
I bind to myself today
The power of Heaven,
The light of the sun,
The brightness of the moon,
The splendour of fire,
The flashing of lightning,
The swiftness of wind,
The depth of sea,
The stability of earth,
The compactness of rocks.
I bind to myself today
God’s Power to guide me,
God’s Might to uphold me,
God’s Wisdom to teach me,
God’s Eye to watch over me,
God’s Ear to hear me,
God’s Word to give me speech,
God’s Hand to guide me,
God’s Way to lie before me,
God’s Shield to shelter me,
God’s Host to secure me,
Against the snares of demons,
Against the seductions of vices,
Against the lusts of nature,
Against everyone who meditates injury to me,
Whether far or near,
Whether few or with many.
I invoke today all these virtues
Against every hostile merciless power
Which may assail my body and my soul,
Against the incantations of false prophets,
Against the black laws of heathenism,
Against the false laws of heresy,
Against the deceits of idolatry,
Against the spells of women, and smiths, and druids,
Against every knowledge that binds the soul of man.
Christ, protect me today
Against every poison, against burning,
Against drowning, against death-wound,
That I may receive abundant reward.
Christ with me, Christ before me,
Christ behind me, Christ within me,
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ at my right, Christ at my left,
Christ in the fort,
Christ in the chariot seat,
Christ in the poop [deck],
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks to me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
I bind to myself today
The strong virtue of an invocation of the Trinity,
I believe the Trinity in the Unity
The Creator of the Universe.

So, whatdya tink o that? eh?

Could the Legends of St. Patrick be True?

There are a great deal of legends and stories about Patrick that are not verifiable. (How can you verify events of nearly 1600 years ago?) As one who seeks to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, I still have more thorough research to do myself to ascertain what is true or not.

I certainly would like to believe that Patrick raised the dead among the Irish as some documents have claimed. The following article is from a friend and mentor and fellow blogger and pastor and simply just a beloved child of God just like you, Mel Wild: https://melwild.wordpress.com/2015/03/16/the-man-who-raises-dead-people-remembering-st-patrick/

Here’s a snippet from the above blog where St. Patrick himself personally attested to these miracles:

“And let those who will, laugh and scorn–I shall not be silent; nor shall I hide the signs and wonders which the Lord has shown me many years before they came to pass, as He knows everything even before the times of the world.”

“The Lord hath given to me, though humble, the power of working miracles among a barbarous people, such as are not recorded to have been worked by the great Apostles; inasmuch as, in the Name of Our Lord Jesus Christ, I have raised from the dead bodies that have been buried many years….”

– Quotes from his  “Letters” (Confessions and Letter to Coroticus)

By the way, Mel Wild will likely and perhaps be future guest on this show in the near future?

(Of course I know raising the dead is possible because my very first Sozo Episode was to interview Robby Dawkins who had raised someone from the dead!)

Even St. Patrick himself in his Confession hints to a great many more stories that never made it into any lasting work by the man… so we think. Perhaps many of the legends were based on fact and actual events. Who knows?

Did Patrick teach the Trinity with a Shamrock? Maybe.

Trivia fact for the day: St. Patricks given name is Maywen Succot

I had a real fun time crafting the intro and hope you enjoy it, and learning more about this man we honor every March 17th for his courage and obedience and the impact he had on the nation of Ireland and the world!

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Escaping a Sex Cult, Interview with Celeste – SOZO EP0006

not-without-my-sister

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Celeste is the author (along with sisters Juliana and Kristina) of the bestselling book, Not Without My Sister, which details their experience and trauma of being born and raised in the infamous religious sex cult, The Children of God, now known as The Family International (TFI).

not-without-my-sister-sex-cult-survivors
Available on Amazon for $3.00 for Kindle

Ephesians 5:11 says, “Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.”

This is what Celeste and her sisters have done with their book. They are bringing the truth to light and exposing the abuse (sexual and otherwise) of what they experienced in the Children of God (COG) cult.

Of course it was an extremely difficult thing for them to write out their stories in this book. It was difficult for my wife Catherine and I to read it! Setting the stage in the beginning of this episode by just reading the description of their book was even hard for me!

But the Truth sets us free. The Truth brings salvation and healing.

“Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”” John 8:31-32 NLT

celeste as a child in sex cult Children of God
Celeste as a child

Catherine and I discuss with our new friend Celeste in this interview what it was like for her to grow up in The Children of God cult and the sexual abuse they suffered – all because of the narcissism and delusions and sexual perversity of one man, David Berg.

“What sorrow for those who say that evil is good and good is evil, that dark is light and light is dark, that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter.” Isaiah 5:20

This is precisely what David Berg did.

Somehow he twisted pedophilia and ritual sexual abuse and wife swapping and a whole litany of other sexual perversity into being an expression of God’s love! (A future episode will further explore David Berg and the MO letters so stay tuned!)

As I have been studying what the Scriptures have to say about love – and how it ought to be expressed – I was struck by a verse in the Bible talking about how there is NO law against love! AND, since there are plenty of laws against pedophilia and sexual abuse this defeats the argument that David Berg put forward that “sharing love” with minors and wife swapping and servicing all the sexual desires of their members is not God’s way! In fact the Bible tells us in 1 Thessalonians 4 that to live sexually immoral is equivalent to rejecting God!:

“God’s will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin.  Then each of you will control his own body and live in holiness and honor—  not in lustful passion like the pagans who do not know God and his ways.  Never harm or cheat a fellow believer in this matter by violating his wife, for the Lord avenges all such sins, as we have solemnly warned you before.  God has called us to live holy lives, not impure lives.  Therefore, anyone who refuses to live by these rules is not disobeying human teaching but is rejecting God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.”

Other questions we address:

We discuss the Hippie era with its rampant sexual immorality and drug use.

What attracted her parents to join this cult?

Celeste jones parents sex cult
Celeste’s parents

Why do you think your father (aka “Simon Peter” – one of Bergs right hand men) along with so many others fall prey to David Berg introducing the morality of the hippie culture’s “Free Love” into Christianity? How did they justify this?

The Bible says there are many Antichrists – Could it be that one of these Antichrists the Bible warns us of the version of Jesus that David Berg preached?

Lets talk about David Berg. What were all of his false prophecies? What was Berg’s version of the law of love? His introduction of flirty fishing – aka prostitution – to bring in money for the group?

What were the MO letters, and what are your thoughts about them?

What was it like growing up in this cult during the 80’s?

I can remember growing up in the 80’s myself and being terrified of “the end times” and watching movies about Christians being hunted down and beheaded. What was that like for you?

Isn’t this how David Berg maintained control? Through instilling fear of the outside world (the system) and the fatalism of the end times?

You talk about seeing your dad as a victim – I actually see this is a true sign of forgiveness. He’s human. Just like you and me. The frog that got boiled because the heat was turned up so gradually. It happens to so many.

You say that you “let that go” regarding the pains from the past – isn’t this the essence of forgiveness?

I love how you talk about being present in the moment! The past can’t hurt you when you just decide to live in (and Enjoy!) the now! I love that!

HEALING! How can the healing happen for the victims of sexual abuse?

Lets talk about Ricky Rodriguez. He chose to take matters of what he saw as justice into his own hands with the murder suicide. Rick (aka Davidito) was the foster child of David Berg himself and was a witness and a victim of SO much ritualistic sexual abuse and torture. He could not overcome the torment of all he had witnessed. What was it like, Celeste, to be one of the last people to talk with him?

Anne Lammot once said, “to not forgive is like drinking rat poison and expecting the rat to die”. We need to be free from the poison of bitterness. But how do we forgive?

How can we be free from the torments of the past? Free from Depression?

Please listen to this very important interview to discover some of these answers!

To those reading this and listening: You are loved! Don’t give up! There is a light at the end of this suffering! The real Jesus is here to be your friend and lift you right out of all your suffering!

On Kindle:

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Building the ARC, with Ryan Kibbe – SOZO EP0005

Elevation Church WI

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What a refreshing conversation!

I kick off this episode by asking Ryan Kibbe, pastor of Elevation Church in Green Bay, his most embarrassing memory. His response is hilarious!

Before we go any further, please take a moment to connect with Elevation Church Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ElevationChurchWi/

Elevation Church WI

The conversation begins with us talking about Ryan’s friendship with Bill Vanderbush who I interviewed in Sozo Episode 0003. Bill was an influence and contributor to Ted Dekker’s book The Forgotten Way and is a regular speaker at the Kingdom Culture Conference and also at the upcoming FREE Accellerant Conference at Elevation ARC facility in Green Bay on May 17th through May 19th. (Visit Elevation website for details)

Ryan Kibbe’s quote is featured on The Forgotten Way website:

“The Forgotten Way is as important to this generation as C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity was to his generation.”

Here is a video put out by Ted Dekker featuring Ryan Kibbe:

Pastor Ryan Kibbe from TED DEKKER on Vimeo.

In This Interview:

Ryan and I discuss topics such as what it mean to be “in Christ“?

“You are royalty! You are amazing! You are the Light of the World!”

Do you see yourself this way? Are you operating in your true identity?

Ryan answers the question, “What is the purpose of the church?” We unpack what the New Testament and Jesus says about our Apostolic mission as believers and about the five fold ministry to equip the church to do the work of the ministry changing atmospheres wherever we go.

THIS is why Elevation Church is Building the ARC (Apostolic Resource Center). A place to Come, Get Equipped, and Go!

Location: 2605 S Oneida St Green Bay, WI 54304

Elevation Church WI Map

Come to learn your identity in Christ. Get Equipped to discover your particular purpose and function in the body of Christ. Go be ministers of reconciliation in this world  and transform the world in your own spheres of influence.

“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25 NLT

Ryan and I also talk about the church wounds that have caused many to neglect meeting together, or even giving up on church entirely. How do we refrain from taking offense? How do we embrace the forgiveness that will bring healing? As a believer, you have been given authority by Jesus to forgive and bring healing to the world!

Ryan Kibbe

Enjoy this conversation with Ryan Kibbe! I trust it will help you learn how to fully enter into and engage a growing community of faith. We want this for you! Jesus wants this for you! The benefits are worth the risk!

I pray that you will come to fully experience the essence of the Kingdom of God in your life and home which is defined by Scripture as:

“Righteousness, Peace, and Joy in the Holy Spirit”!

More about Elevation Church Green Bay:

A New Building Space of Elevation Church Apostolic Resource Center (ARC)

Elevation Church Green Bay
Elevation Church 2605 South Oneida Street GB WI

Elevation Church Green Bay Sanctuary

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Seeing in the Spirit Realm, with Doug Overmyer – SOZO EP0004

eyeofgodnebula

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What does it mean to be a Seer? How does being a Seer relate to the gift of Prophecy or Word of Knowledge? How do we use the Seer gift to love and serve others and advance God’s Kingdom of Love?

These are just some of the issues we cover in this “eye-opening” talk… Oh yea, and we talk about angels and demons and spiritual warfare and have many fun and epic stories.

Seer_gift_Purpose

Visit Doug Overmyer’s website: https://seerssee.com/

Isn’t it interesting to think about how we as humans are all spirits having a temporary physical experience? Some of us can “see” better with our spirit eyes and so are meant to be the eyes of the body of Christ. Check this following Scripture out!

One Body with Many Parts

“The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ. Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles,e some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptized into one body by one Spirit, and we all share the same Spirit.

Yes, the body has many different parts, not just one part. If the foot says, “I am not a part of the body because I am not a hand,” that does not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear says, “I am not part of the body because I am not an eye,” would that make it any less a part of the body? If the whole body were an eye, how would you hear? Or if your whole body were an ear, how would you smell anything?

But our bodies have many parts, and God has put each part just where he wants it. How strange a body would be if it had only one part! Yes, there are many parts, but only one body. The eye can never say to the hand, “I don’t need you.” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you.”” (1 Corinthians 12:12-21 NLT)

This just made so much sense to me! I’m sure most of us have a good relationship with our own eyes, right? I mean we don’t go around stabbing our eyes or ignoring or belittling  them. We use them and depend on them. We cherish and protect them.

Since the Seer is an eye in Christ’s body, it would be foolish for the rest of the body to persecute or belittle (or medicate and institutionalize) their own eye, right? It is also foolish to be jealous of them. Be who God created you to be! God has put each part just where he wants it!

More Scriptures we mention in our talk:

“Then, after doing all those things,
I will pour out my Spirit upon all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy.
Your old men will dream dreams,
and your young men will see visions.”
-Dreams and Visions (Joel 2:28)

Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that those who do not see may gain their sight, and the ones who see may become blind.” Some of the Pharisees who were with him heard this and asked him, “We are not blind too, are we?”  Jesus replied, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin, but now because you claim that you can see, your guilt remains.” John 9:39-41

Let’s honor our eyes and learn how to use all our gifts the way God intended.

A Prayer For You!

I ask that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation in your knowledge of Him. I ask that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and the surpassing greatness of His power to us who believe. (Ephesians 1:17-19)