Ask the Pastor with J.D. Greear

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. pauses his series called, “Why Does It Matter?” to answer a listener question about challenges of tithing when a spouse disagree. A glimpse inside this episode: Tithing is a biblical command that reflects trust in God. Communication is key when spouses disagree on financial matters. It’s important to honor each other’s perspectives in marriage. Testing God through tithing can lead to personal testimonies of faithfulness. You can’t give what you don’t have authority over. Prayer is essential in changing hearts regarding financial decisions. Generosity can be demonstrated through small acts of giving. God values the spirit of generosity over the amount given. Mutual respect in financial decisions strengthens marriage. Encouragement and prayer can lead to shifts in financial perspectives.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, “Why Does It Matter?” by diving into the significance of the virgin birth of Jesus. A glimpse inside this episode: The virgin birth is crucial to understanding Jesus’ identity. Jesus was born without a sin nature due to the virgin birth. The doctrine of the virgin birth is essential for salvation. Jesus had to be fully God and fully man to save us. The sin nature is passed down through the man’s seed. Isaiah 7:14 prophesies the virgin birth of Jesus. The term ‘Alma’ in Hebrew contextually means virgin. Matthew’s interpretation of Isaiah confirms the virgin birth. Jesus understands human experiences because he was fully man. The virgin birth leads us to worship God for His miraculous work.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, “Why Does It Matter?” and focuses on why purity before marriage even matters by exploring the biblical stance on sexual ethics. A glimpse inside this episode: Many people question why sex before marriage is a big deal. God’s instructions on sex are rooted in wisdom and love. Sex is designed to bond two lives together, not just for pleasure. Casual sex can have lasting psychological effects. God’s limitations on sex are meant to protect us from harm. Marriage is a covenant that signifies a deeper commitment. The church has sometimes failed to communicate the reasons behind sexual ethics. There is grace and redemption available for those who have sinned sexually. Sexual sin can rob individuals of feelings of cleanliness, safety, and specialness. God’s grace is greater than our sins, offering hope and restoration.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. shares part two of his favorite books in 2024. A glimpse inside this episode: Pastor J.D. shares his favorite books from 2024 ranging from spiritual and secular literature. Forgive by Tim Keller The Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible by Dr. Michael Heiser Where the Light Fell: A Memoir by Philip Yancey The Courage to Be Protestant by Gavin Ortlund Martin Luther: The Man Who Rediscovered God and Changed the World by Eric Metaxas Jesus and the Powers by NT Wright and Michael Bird Ghosted: An American Story by Nancy French Spare by Prince Harry The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. answers “Should Followers of Jesus Get Plastic Surgery?” A glimpse inside this episode: There are many the nuances for Christians around plastic surgery, enhancing beauty, the cultural pressures surrounding appearance, and the importance of focusing on inner beauty and heart posture. While cosmetic enhancements are not inherently wrong, they should not become idols that dictate self-worth or decision-making. The question of cosmetic surgery is nuanced and complex. Enhancing beauty is not inherently wrong; it’s about the heart behind it. Cultural pressures can lead to unhealthy decisions regarding appearance. The Bible encourages focusing on inner beauty rather than outward adornment. Idols related to beauty can lead to poor decision-making. Aging is a natural process that should be embraced, not fought against. Self-image should be rooted in God’s love, not physical appearance. It’s important to ask oneself if beauty and youth are idols. The inward person can be renewed even as the outward person deteriorates. Heart posture is crucial in making decisions about cosmetic enhancements.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. answers “Are Denominations Biblical?” A glimpse inside this episode: In this week’s episode, Pastor J.D. explores the biblical basis for denominations while addressing common criticisms. While denominations may not be explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the concept of cooperation in the mission of the church is prevalent. Denominations serve as a practical tool for collaboration in advancing the mission of God. Denominations are not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. Cooperation among churches is a biblical principle. Different levels of cooperation require varying levels of doctrinal conformity. Movements and institutions are both necessary in the church. A unified authority does not guarantee doctrinal purity. Protestantism allows for recognition of valid churches outside its own. Denominations can facilitate mission advancement. The Bible is the ultimate authority for Christians. Historical context is crucial in understanding church authority. Denominations are tools for cooperation, not division.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. answers a question that asked, “I’m currently married to a man who had an unbiblical divorce. To make it worse, we actually began dating before the divorce was finalized. We recently both got saved, and now are facing the question: are we living in continuous adultery? We’re both sick over how our marriage began, but at the same time, we don’t feel right divorcing. Do you have any guidance?” A glimpse inside this episode: This is a really complex question regarding marriage, divorce, and the implications of their past decisions in light of their newfound faith. Pastor J.D. dives into the biblical teachings on divorce, the nature of marriage as a covenant, and the importance of repentance and grace in moving forward. While the circumstances of their marriage may have been sinful, God’s mercy allows for redemption and blessing in their current relationship. Jesus’ teachings on divorce emphasize the sanctity of marriage. Divorce is allowed in cases of adultery, but not required. God’s view of marriage is a covenant of oneness. Repentance is key to moving forward in faith. Deuteronomy 24 warns against returning to a previous marriage. God can redeem even the worst situations. Acknowledging past sins is important for healing. God’s grace allows for new beginnings in relationships. The podcast serves as a resource for vulnerable questions.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. answers a question submitted by Tyler who asked, ““I know in my head that my sin is sinful, but I can’t seem to ‘metabolize’ it and get that truth into my heart. How can I do that?” A glimpse inside this episode: The goal of salvation is a new kind of righteousness. Understanding sin requires both head knowledge and heart transformation. Living by faith means choosing what is right despite feelings. Growth in grace involves recognizing our ongoing need for grace. Sowing seeds of righteousness leads to spiritual growth. Habits shape our desires and affections. Choosing against fleshly desires is a step of faith. Reckoning ourselves dead to sin empowers us to resist temptation. Prayer and belief in the gospel are essential for spiritual life. Continuous reliance on God’s grace is crucial in the Christian walk.