The Bullpen with J.D. Greear

Is temptation itself a sin? Why do Christians follow some Old Testament laws but not others? And can you be pro-life while supporting the death penalty? This week on The Bullpen, J.D., Matt, and Curtis welcome a special guest: J.D.’s wife, Veronica Greear! After Veronica grades J.D.’s sermon (and his fashion choices), the conversation turns to what it means that Jesus fulfilled the Old Testament law—and why Christians still follow some commands but not others. They also tackle some difficult questions about capital punishment, biblical justice, and the relationship between being pro-life and supporting the death penalty. Finally, they explore the difference between temptation and sin, why changing our behavior isn’t the same as changing our hearts, how obedience and accountability help us grow, and why baptism is a starting point rather than something we have to earn. Scripture: Matt. 5:17-22 Watch the full sermon HERE. Get the sermon transcript HERE. Stay Connected! Text BULLPEN to 97000 for updates about the podcast. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode of The Bullpen!

Are you building a life that looks successful—or one that will actually matter when it’s over? In this episode of The Bullpen, J.D. Greear sits down with Matt Love, Curtis Andrusko, and special guest Julius Tennal to go deeper into Ecclesiastes 7 and the surprising wisdom that can come from hardship, loss, and even thinking about death. They talk about the difference between résumé virtues and eulogy virtues, what we tend to sacrifice in the pursuit of success, why we need people in our lives who are willing to tell us the truth, and how obedience can quietly become an attempt to control God. Julius also shares what it means to “live sent,” why Christians shouldn’t always wait for a dramatic calling before taking a step of obedience, and his family’s journey toward planting a church in South Africa. Plus, with football season back, we tackle the explosion of sports betting and ask whether “Is it a sin?” is even the right question. Scripture: Ecclesiastes 7 Watch the full sermon HERE. Get the sermon transcript HERE. Stay Connected! Text BULLPEN to 97000 for updates about the podcast. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode of The Bullpen!

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.