http://freedom2captives.com Bringing Freedom to Captives en-us This content MAY be freely distributed Steve Campisi Steve Campisi has preached at the local county jail and state prisons for many years now. This podcast is dedicated to making the message he has preached available to anyone, any time. Steve Campisi admin@freedom2captives.com http://freedom2captives.com/images/freedom-2-captives-podcast.jpg http://freedom2captives.com no http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/what_is_important.mp3 This podcast deals with our priorities and the things on which we place value. I hate this podcast. It makes me look at my motives and desires and compare them to those of Jesus. That's never a good comparison, but always produces good results. Good luck. Sat, 09 May 2009 01:43:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/what_is_important.mp3 May 8, 2009 - Exactly WHAT is Important? This podcast deals with our priorities and the things on which we place value. I hate this podcast. It makes me look at my motives and desires and compare them to those of Jesus. That's never a good comparison, but always produces good results. Good luck. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/a_mist.mp3 This is the my favorite part of this teaching. It is, in effect, the punchline. Too many people spend too much time and effort debating and arguing the scriptures we've been discussing. From the promise that says, "if you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer" to the just as absolute statement that says you don't receive because you ask "amiss", this subject has been cussed and discussed way too much. Hopefully, this podcast will help put our lives and our desires and prayers into proper perspective and leave us looking at the incredible, consistent truth that is the word of God. Tue, 05 May 2009 01:32:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/a_mist.mp3 May 4, 2009 - Amiss or A Mist? This is the my favorite part of this teaching. It is, in effect, the punchline. Too many people spend too much time and effort debating and arguing the scriptures we've been discussing. From the promise that says, "if you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer" to the just as absolute statement that says you don't receive because you ask "amiss", this subject has been cussed and discussed way too much. Hopefully, this podcast will help put our lives and our desires and prayers into proper perspective and leave us looking at the incredible, consistent truth that is the word of God. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/ask_according_to_his_will.mp3 Ahh, yes. Next to asking amiss, there is no single objection more popular to the open-ended promises that Jesus continually made than the "You must ask 'according to Gods will'" statement that people make when quoting from I John 5. People seem to think this scripture negates Jesus' promise that "if you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer" or "nothing is impossible to him who believes" or "If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you". I assure you, Jesus and John weren't disagreeing with each other. I think John's book, and particular his aforementioned statement when taken in context, concisely explain how we MUST live and how we "get" things from God. I hope this podcast helps you. Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:03:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/ask_according_to_his_will.mp3 Apr 22, 2009 - Asking According to God’s Will Ahh, yes. Next to asking amiss, there is no single objection more popular to the open-ended promises that Jesus continually made than the "You must ask 'according to Gods will'" statement that people make when quoting from I John 5. People seem to think this scripture negates Jesus' promise that "if you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer" or "nothing is impossible to him who believes" or "If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you". I assure you, Jesus and John weren't disagreeing with each other. I think John's book, and particular his aforementioned statement when taken in context, concisely explain how we MUST live and how we "get" things from God. I hope this podcast helps you. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/james_4_2.mp3 After a prolonged absence we are finally finishing our trip through the book of James. This will hopefully allow you to see the book of James as a complete set of thoughts, or more simply, as a "book". We deal with praying and asking if it is God's will. Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:07:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/james_4_2.mp3 Apr 16, 2009 - Finally Finishing James After a prolonged absence we are finally finishing our trip through the book of James. This will hopefully allow you to see the book of James as a complete set of thoughts, or more simply, as a "book". We deal with praying and asking if it is God's will. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/james_4.mp3 This podcast tries ( and nearly succeeds ) to skim through the book of James for the express purpose of putting James 4 in it's proper context. To better understand James 4, you really should remember that Jimmy had just written James 1 through James 3. It seems silly that I would even have to mention that fact, but it is amazing how many times we get hung up on scriptures without reading the book that the scripture comes from. We live in a "sound-bite" world, where it is popular to take some phrase someone mentioned, and judge their intentions purely on that. We can't afford to do that with the spirit of the living God. I love the book of James and hopefully this, and the next podcast, will give you the same appreciation for it. Thu, 26 Mar 2009 14:25:01 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/james_4.mp3 Mar 26, 2009 - A Brief Trip Through the Book of James This podcast tries ( and nearly succeeds ) to skim through the book of James for the express purpose of putting James 4 in it's proper context. To better understand James 4, you really should remember that Jimmy had just written James 1 through James 3. It seems silly that I would even have to mention that fact, but it is amazing how many times we get hung up on scriptures without reading the book that the scripture comes from. We live in a "sound-bite" world, where it is popular to take some phrase someone mentioned, and judge their intentions purely on that. We can't afford to do that with the spirit of the living God. I love the book of James and hopefully this, and the next podcast, will give you the same appreciation for it. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/asking_amiss_2.mp3 I challenge you to find someone that has used the word "amiss" in the last month when discussing something OTHER than prayer. It is one of those lovely church words that we only use when we talk about "Godly" things. The reason it is not in your everyday language, is because you're not comfortable enough with it's meaning. This podcast breaks down James 4 and continues our previous discussion on this topic. Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:56:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/asking_amiss_2.mp3 Mar 10, 2009 - How To Ask Amiss I challenge you to find someone that has used the word "amiss" in the last month when discussing something OTHER than prayer. It is one of those lovely church words that we only use when we talk about "Godly" things. The reason it is not in your everyday language, is because you're not comfortable enough with it's meaning. This podcast breaks down James 4 and continues our previous discussion on this topic. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/asking_amiss.mp3 It's time for the rebuttal from the opposition party. When I preach about the open-ended promises that Jesus gave us, invariably I am asked the question, "What if I am asking amiss?". I just love tradition. Wed, 04 Mar 2009 20:10:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/asking_amiss.mp3 Mar 4, 2009 - If You Believe, You Will Receive Whatever You Ask for in Prayer. . . unless you ask amiss, obviously It's time for the rebuttal from the opposition party. When I preach about the open-ended promises that Jesus gave us, invariably I am asked the question, "What if I am asking amiss?". I just love tradition. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/if_you_believe_2.mp3 I talk to people all the time that wondering why their prayers went unanswered. The look at scriptures that say "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer" and then wonder why they aren't receiving what they are praying for? Ever been there? So have I. This podcast will hopefully answer this oft-asked question. Thu, 26 Feb 2009 14:55:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/if_you_believe_2.mp3 Feb 26, 2009 - I Prayed and Nothing Happened . . . So What Did God Do Wrong? I talk to people all the time that wondering why their prayers went unanswered. The look at scriptures that say "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer" and then wonder why they aren't receiving what they are praying for? Ever been there? So have I. This podcast will hopefully answer this oft-asked question. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/if_you_believe.mp3 Ever read Matthew 21:22 and wondered if it was true? You probably haven't wondered it out loud, or even allowed your mind to ponder it, but what does your fruit say? Mon, 23 Feb 2009 19:04:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/if_you_believe.mp3 Feb 23, 2009 - The Carte Blanche Promises of Jesus Ever read Matthew 21:22 and wondered if it was true? You probably haven't wondered it out loud, or even allowed your mind to ponder it, but what does your fruit say? Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/fruit_happens_4.mp3 We wrap up our discussion of fruit with Luke 6 and Matthew 7 as Jesus preaches on the subject. We break down the incredibly complex revelation that a tree that grows apples is an apple tree. Deep stuff, huh? Wed, 18 Feb 2009 14:24:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/fruit_happens_4.mp3 Feb 18, 2009 - Fruit Inspectors We wrap up our discussion of fruit with Luke 6 and Matthew 7 as Jesus preaches on the subject. We break down the incredibly complex revelation that a tree that grows apples is an apple tree. Deep stuff, huh? Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/fruit_happens_3.mp3 Abiding in the Vine. Ah, yes, that wonderful song from the classic 70's Gospel Album. . . Polka Praise! It's not just a fruity song, it's actually a critical concept if you want to bear the kind of fruit that you are called to have. We dissect this little term as Jesus teaches it in John 15. Tue, 17 Feb 2009 15:02:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/fruit_happens_3.mp3 Feb 17, 2009 - How the Heck Do You Abide? Abiding in the Vine. Ah, yes, that wonderful song from the classic 70's Gospel Album. . . Polka Praise! It's not just a fruity song, it's actually a critical concept if you want to bear the kind of fruit that you are called to have. We dissect this little term as Jesus teaches it in John 15. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/fruit_happens_2.mp3 Jesus teaches us the best way to have the best fruit in John 15. We look at these scriptures in this podcast and see what our role is in the production of good fruit. Tue, 10 Feb 2009 14:44:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/fruit_happens_2.mp3 Feb 10, 2009 - Bearing Fruit Jesus teaches us the best way to have the best fruit in John 15. We look at these scriptures in this podcast and see what our role is in the production of good fruit. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/fruit_happens.mp3 How is your relationship with God? If you have to pause and think, that's not really a good sign. This podcast deals with evaluating where you are in your relationship with God, and better yet, it gives you an objective way to evaluate it. Fri, 06 Feb 2009 14:19:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/fruit_happens.mp3 Feb 6, 2009 - _ _ _it Happens! How is your relationship with God? If you have to pause and think, that's not really a good sign. This podcast deals with evaluating where you are in your relationship with God, and better yet, it gives you an objective way to evaluate it. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/help_ive_fallen_and_i_cant_get_up.mp3 Ever been there? You feel like that old lady on that commercial . . . lying there helpless . . . fallen . . . unable to get back on your feet. This is where the adversary wants you to be. This is what discouragement is. This is the only way the devil can win. To absolutely convince you that you WON'T get back on your feet. The faithfulness of God is your LifeAlert. Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:09:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/help_ive_fallen_and_i_cant_get_up.mp3 Jan 9, 2009 - Help!  My Faith Has Fallen and I Can’t Get Up! Ever been there? You feel like that old lady on that commercial . . . lying there helpless . . . fallen . . . unable to get back on your feet. This is where the adversary wants you to be. This is what discouragement is. This is the only way the devil can win. To absolutely convince you that you WON'T get back on your feet. The faithfulness of God is your LifeAlert. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/do_not_worry.mp3 It's quite a pointed question, but it is a serious one. Look at your life and judge how you act in situations that arise that place a demand on your "faith". Are you consumed with worry? The very fact that you worry exposes a lack of confidence in God's provision. If you don't ever worry about anything then this podcast may not be too helpful, but if find yourself wondering where God's promised provision is, then you might want to listen. Tue, 23 Dec 2008 02:23:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/do_not_worry.mp3 Dec 22, 2008 - Just How Unfaithful Do You Think God Is? It's quite a pointed question, but it is a serious one. Look at your life and judge how you act in situations that arise that place a demand on your "faith". Are you consumed with worry? The very fact that you worry exposes a lack of confidence in God's provision. If you don't ever worry about anything then this podcast may not be too helpful, but if find yourself wondering where God's promised provision is, then you might want to listen. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hebrews_11_2.mp3 This deceptively named podcast deals with the remainder of Hebrews 11, specifically the fact that the people mentioned in Hebrews 11 were looking forward to something else. These few minutes will hopefully challenge your view of God and whether or not you consider Him faithful in ALL the areas of your life. Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:30:01 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hebrews_11_2.mp3 Dec 11, 2008 - Looking for a New Home This deceptively named podcast deals with the remainder of Hebrews 11, specifically the fact that the people mentioned in Hebrews 11 were looking forward to something else. These few minutes will hopefully challenge your view of God and whether or not you consider Him faithful in ALL the areas of your life. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hebrews_11.mp3 Hebrews 11 has long been regarded as the starting point for all teaching about faith. For that reason, I try and avoid it when I am discussing what "faith" means as it is used in the bible. We have heard so much teaching about these scriptures, that we forget to just read them in their context and grasp the simple message that God is trying to communicate. This podcast reads the first part of Hebrews 11 from the Jewish New Testament and will hopefully help you view this powerful passage in a new ( or maybe "old") light. Wed, 10 Dec 2008 14:42:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hebrews_11.mp3 Dec 10, 2008 - Have I Mentioned that God is Faithful? Hebrews 11 has long been regarded as the starting point for all teaching about faith. For that reason, I try and avoid it when I am discussing what "faith" means as it is used in the bible. We have heard so much teaching about these scriptures, that we forget to just read them in their context and grasp the simple message that God is trying to communicate. This podcast reads the first part of Hebrews 11 from the Jewish New Testament and will hopefully help you view this powerful passage in a new ( or maybe "old") light. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/king_asa_2.mp3 King Asa was very successful against the vast army that attacked him in Chapter 14 of II Chronicles. He put his trust in God and refused to look at his own strength or take into account the wealth that was at his disposal. King Asa had even determined to put everyone to death that didn't trust in God. This podcast deals with where he puts his hope and trust when a smaller, more familiar army attacks him. Mon, 01 Dec 2008 14:23:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/king_asa_2.mp3 Dec 1, 2008 - King Asa and His Hope King Asa was very successful against the vast army that attacked him in Chapter 14 of II Chronicles. He put his trust in God and refused to look at his own strength or take into account the wealth that was at his disposal. King Asa had even determined to put everyone to death that didn't trust in God. This podcast deals with where he puts his hope and trust when a smaller, more familiar army attacks him. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/king_asa.mp3 Jehoshaphat's old man, King Asa, had troubles with a vast army himself. He considers himself, and the 580,000 fighting men willing to die to protect him, to be completely powerless without God. All too often, we "think of ourselves more highly than we ought" (NIV) and forget that we are truly strongest when we face our problems from a position of weakness. King Asa puts things in perspective. Wed, 26 Nov 2008 17:36:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/king_asa.mp3 Nov 26, 2008 - King Asa and the Vast Army Jehoshaphat's old man, King Asa, had troubles with a vast army himself. He considers himself, and the 580,000 fighting men willing to die to protect him, to be completely powerless without God. All too often, we "think of ourselves more highly than we ought" (NIV) and forget that we are truly strongest when we face our problems from a position of weakness. King Asa puts things in perspective. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/jehoshaphat_2.mp3 This is the conclusion of our story about Jehoshaphat. This story in 2 Chronicles 20 is a demonstration of what God can do when we remove our strength from the situation and put ourselves wholly dependent on Him. Sat, 22 Nov 2008 03:41:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/jehoshaphat_2.mp3 Nov 21, 2008 - Jehoshaphat and the Fasting Army This is the conclusion of our story about Jehoshaphat. This story in 2 Chronicles 20 is a demonstration of what God can do when we remove our strength from the situation and put ourselves wholly dependent on Him. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/jehoshaphat_1.mp3 This podcast deals with Jehoshaphat's situation when he is confronted by three armies that have combined forces to attack him. His response to this attack shows us exactly where he expects his deliverance to come from. Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:09:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/jehoshaphat_1.mp3 Nov 19, 2008 - Jehoshaphat and the Vast Army This podcast deals with Jehoshaphat's situation when he is confronted by three armies that have combined forces to attack him. His response to this attack shows us exactly where he expects his deliverance to come from. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/ezra_8.mp3 Ezra's journey to Jerusalem presented him with the opportunity to fulfill the prophetic word of God. However, the long trip presented him with the opportunity to fall prey to the dangers that plague this earth. Thankfully for Ezra, he remembered that his God is faithful. Fri, 14 Nov 2008 20:44:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/ezra_8.mp3 Nov 14, 2008 - Ezra Goes to Jerusalem Ezra's journey to Jerusalem presented him with the opportunity to fulfill the prophetic word of God. However, the long trip presented him with the opportunity to fall prey to the dangers that plague this earth. Thankfully for Ezra, he remembered that his God is faithful. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/isaiah_7_ahaz_aram_.mp3 This podcast covers the story of Ahaz and Judah when they are attacked by the kingdoms of Israel and Aram. A seemingly hopeless situation that God deals with by changing Ahaz's perspective with a very simple statement. Isaiah 7 gives you the power to change your perspective when you are faced with similarly discouraging situations. God is faithful. Wed, 12 Nov 2008 01:42:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/isaiah_7_ahaz_aram_.mp3 Nov 11, 2008 - Ahaz Vs Rezin - Whom Do You Fear? This podcast covers the story of Ahaz and Judah when they are attacked by the kingdoms of Israel and Aram. A seemingly hopeless situation that God deals with by changing Ahaz's perspective with a very simple statement. Isaiah 7 gives you the power to change your perspective when you are faced with similarly discouraging situations. God is faithful. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/isaiah_30.mp3 What a powerful statement in Isaiah 30!! In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength! We have learned the wrong lesson from the the great men of faith in our time. These men have great faith, but it is because they have learned to trust in God's faithfulness. We try and emulate their actions, without knowing their hearts and we end up "working our heads off to please God" (The Message, Gal 3:2-5). We have to be able to rest and depend on our God. HE IS FAITHFUL! Relax. Fri, 07 Nov 2008 14:43:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/isaiah_30.mp3 Nov 7, 2008 - In Quietness and Trust is Your Strength What a powerful statement in Isaiah 30!! In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength! We have learned the wrong lesson from the the great men of faith in our time. These men have great faith, but it is because they have learned to trust in God's faithfulness. We try and emulate their actions, without knowing their hearts and we end up "working our heads off to please God" (The Message, Gal 3:2-5). We have to be able to rest and depend on our God. HE IS FAITHFUL! Relax. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/egypt_is_not_faithful_3.mp3 This podcast continues where we left off in Isaiah 30. God demonstrates how "utterly useless" it is to trust in the world. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:10:00 -0600 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/egypt_is_not_faithful_3.mp3 Nov 5, 2008 - Woe to You Who Go Down to Egypt This podcast continues where we left off in Isaiah 30. God demonstrates how "utterly useless" it is to trust in the world. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/egypt_is_not_faithful_2.mp3 The world's wisdom and methods present themselves as reliable and stable. They quote doctors and scientists and tell us why we should trust them. The problem is . . . the wisdom of man is foolishness. God is reliable, the world is NOT. God is faithful. Egypt is NOT. Fri, 31 Oct 2008 23:36:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/egypt_is_not_faithful_2.mp3 Oct 31, 2008 - You Can’t Trust Egypt The world's wisdom and methods present themselves as reliable and stable. They quote doctors and scientists and tell us why we should trust them. The problem is . . . the wisdom of man is foolishness. God is reliable, the world is NOT. God is faithful. Egypt is NOT. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/egypt_is_not_faithful.mp3 It's easy to rely on the "tried and true" traditions of what we have always known or how we have always lived. The problem is that those "tried" traditions are not always "true". The world's way of doing things in NOT 100% faithful. The world may tell you that they are faithful, and your friends may tell you that the world is faithful. . . but to tell the truth . . . EGYPT is NOT faithful. In the bible, Egypt is representative of the world's provision and man's way of doing things. When you trust in the world to provide for you, though, you will nearly always end up a slave in need of a savior. Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:28:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/egypt_is_not_faithful.mp3 Oct 28, 2008 - Egypt is NOT Faithful It's easy to rely on the "tried and true" traditions of what we have always known or how we have always lived. The problem is that those "tried" traditions are not always "true". The world's way of doing things in NOT 100% faithful. The world may tell you that they are faithful, and your friends may tell you that the world is faithful. . . but to tell the truth . . . EGYPT is NOT faithful. In the bible, Egypt is representative of the world's provision and man's way of doing things. When you trust in the world to provide for you, though, you will nearly always end up a slave in need of a savior. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hezekiah_4.mp3 This concludes the series of podcasts covering Sennacherib's attack on Jerusalem. Hezekiah's response the Assyrian Empire exposes who his God is and who he considers faithful. Wed, 22 Oct 2008 23:55:01 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hezekiah_4.mp3 Oct 22, 2008 - The Adventures of Hezekiah 4 - God is Faithful This concludes the series of podcasts covering Sennacherib's attack on Jerusalem. Hezekiah's response the Assyrian Empire exposes who his God is and who he considers faithful. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hezekiah_3.mp3 This podcast deals with my favorite attack from Sennacherib. The Assyrian Empire wants to rule the world and Hezekiah stands in their way. The elaborate attack plan of Assyria includes scaring the Israelites and trying to convince them that God won't help them. Tue, 21 Oct 2008 21:24:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hezekiah_3.mp3 Oct 21, 2008 - The Adventures of Hezekiah 3 . . . in 3D - Will He or Won’t He? This podcast deals with my favorite attack from Sennacherib. The Assyrian Empire wants to rule the world and Hezekiah stands in their way. The elaborate attack plan of Assyria includes scaring the Israelites and trying to convince them that God won't help them. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hezekiah_2.mp3 This podcast gets into the meat of Hezekiah's battle. We get a unique glimpse inside the devil's gameplan that allows us to see how he tries to move us off of our trust in God. Hezekiah trusted in the LORD. This podcast looks at how he responds in the face of discouragement and will help you examine how you do in these same circumstances. Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:58:01 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hezekiah_2.mp3 Oct 17, 2008 - The Adventures of Hezekiah II - The Sequel This podcast gets into the meat of Hezekiah's battle. We get a unique glimpse inside the devil's gameplan that allows us to see how he tries to move us off of our trust in God. Hezekiah trusted in the LORD. This podcast looks at how he responds in the face of discouragement and will help you examine how you do in these same circumstances. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hezekiah_1.mp3 Hezekiah was a good king in Judah. The bible states very simply that "he trusted in the LORD". That is such a simple short statement that we don't fully realize it's power. Hezekiah faces an enemy that is taking over the world and he is next on their list. You wanna know how he overcame his adversary in the face of discouragement? He trusted in the LORD. He was fully persuaded that God would rescue him. He didn't waiver . . . he waited. Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:57:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hezekiah_1.mp3 Oct 16, 2008 - The Adventures of Hezekiah - A Lesson in the Faithfulness of God Hezekiah was a good king in Judah. The bible states very simply that "he trusted in the LORD". That is such a simple short statement that we don't fully realize it's power. Hezekiah faces an enemy that is taking over the world and he is next on their list. You wanna know how he overcame his adversary in the face of discouragement? He trusted in the LORD. He was fully persuaded that God would rescue him. He didn't waiver . . . he waited. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/rest.mp3 One way to tell if you consider God to be 100% faithful, is to see if you have rest. If you are uneasy, or don't really have peace about something that you have been praying about or expecting God to do, then you clearly AREN'T fully persuaded. There is a peace that comes with being confident that your needs are met before you even ask. There is a distinct un-peace that comes with wondering if you've done enough to get God to move. Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:49:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/rest.mp3 Oct 13, 2008 - When You Consider God Faithful, the Rest is Easy One way to tell if you consider God to be 100% faithful, is to see if you have rest. If you are uneasy, or don't really have peace about something that you have been praying about or expecting God to do, then you clearly AREN'T fully persuaded. There is a peace that comes with being confident that your needs are met before you even ask. There is a distinct un-peace that comes with wondering if you've done enough to get God to move. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/god_is_faithul_3.mp3 This podcast reviews a number of scriptures that testify to God's faithfulness. It is vital for the effective Christian to keep himself fully persuaded that God has the power to do what He has promised He will do. God is faithful! Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:18:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/god_is_faithul_3.mp3 Oct 2, 2008 - God is Still Faithful This podcast reviews a number of scriptures that testify to God's faithfulness. It is vital for the effective Christian to keep himself fully persuaded that God has the power to do what He has promised He will do. God is faithful! Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/theres_no_i_in_faith.mp3 This podcast is part three of the series on the faithfulness of our God. There is none like Him. This concludes the story of Abraham and shows how he succeeded despite all his mistakes and errors. This story demonstrates how our faith is actually strengthened despite our situation . . . IF we consider God to be faithful. Fri, 26 Sep 2008 15:49:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/theres_no_i_in_faith.mp3 Sep 26, 2008 - There’s No “I” in Faith! This podcast is part three of the series on the faithfulness of our God. There is none like Him. This concludes the story of Abraham and shows how he succeeded despite all his mistakes and errors. This story demonstrates how our faith is actually strengthened despite our situation . . . IF we consider God to be faithful. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/god_is_faithful_2.mp3 This is a continuation of the previous podcast on the faithfulness of our God. We look at the incredible fact that not one of God's promises will fail, every one will be fulfilled. He is faithful. Really! NOT ONE PROMISE WILL GO UN-FULFILLED! In this podcast we start our look at Abraham, who, even though we call him the father of faith, still made some bad decisions and moves that didn't move God off of His faithfulness. Even if we are faithless, God will remain faithful. Thu, 25 Sep 2008 14:26:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/god_is_faithful_2.mp3 Sep 25, 2008 - God is Faithful, Too This is a continuation of the previous podcast on the faithfulness of our God. We look at the incredible fact that not one of God's promises will fail, every one will be fulfilled. He is faithful. Really! NOT ONE PROMISE WILL GO UN-FULFILLED! In this podcast we start our look at Abraham, who, even though we call him the father of faith, still made some bad decisions and moves that didn't move God off of His faithfulness. Even if we are faithless, God will remain faithful. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/god_is_faithful.mp3 The statement seems simple at first . . . God is faithful . . . but few of us actually really believe it. This podcast starts a series where we'll look at the faithfulness of God and why it is SO important to KNOW that He is faithful. Fri, 19 Sep 2008 13:29:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/god_is_faithful.mp3 Sep 19, 2008 - God is Faithful The statement seems simple at first . . . God is faithful . . . but few of us actually really believe it. This podcast starts a series where we'll look at the faithfulness of God and why it is SO important to KNOW that He is faithful. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/i_want_to_know_christ.mp3 People often use the excuse that it is hard to know a God you can't see. They point out that Abraham and Moses, both of whom are mentioned as God's friends, had such a strong relationship with God because they physically saw Him and that somehow made it easier. I'm sorry, but that's not a valid excuse. I want to know God. Thu, 18 Sep 2008 13:38:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/i_want_to_know_christ.mp3 Sep 18, 2008 - How Well Can We Know God? People often use the excuse that it is hard to know a God you can't see. They point out that Abraham and Moses, both of whom are mentioned as God's friends, had such a strong relationship with God because they physically saw Him and that somehow made it easier. I'm sorry, but that's not a valid excuse. I want to know God. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/god_loves_mercy.mp3 We've been looking at what God is "in" to. . . what He cares about . . . what puts a smile on his face. Well, we take a look at what the book says He LOVES today. Think about it. Think about a scripture that says what God loves. "God loves you" may come to mind . . . how 'bout "God loves a cheerful giver"? That one is not so popular. Today we deal with something else God loves as we are TRYING to get to really know him. Jesus said "if you really knew me, you'd know my Father". Examine yourself and see if you REALLY know him. Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:12:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/god_loves_mercy.mp3 Sep 11, 2008 - What God Loves! We've been looking at what God is "in" to. . . what He cares about . . . what puts a smile on his face. Well, we take a look at what the book says He LOVES today. Think about it. Think about a scripture that says what God loves. "God loves you" may come to mind . . . how 'bout "God loves a cheerful giver"? That one is not so popular. Today we deal with something else God loves as we are TRYING to get to really know him. Jesus said "if you really knew me, you'd know my Father". Examine yourself and see if you REALLY know him. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/what_does_god_like_part_2.mp3 This continues our study of what God "esteems" according to the book. In Isaiah 66:2 God says: "This is the one I esteem : he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word." The Hebrew word there is: "nabat" and Strong's definition is to scan, i.e. look intently at; by implication, to regard with pleasure, favor or care I REALLY want to have God scanning me . . . .looking intently at me . . . .regarding me with pleasure. If we are going to know God, we MUST know what makes Him happy. Fri, 05 Sep 2008 23:49:01 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/what_does_god_like_part_2.mp3 Sep 5, 2008 - What Does God Like? Part 2 This continues our study of what God "esteems" according to the book. In Isaiah 66:2 God says: "This is the one I esteem : he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word." The Hebrew word there is: "nabat" and Strong's definition is to scan, i.e. look intently at; by implication, to regard with pleasure, favor or care I REALLY want to have God scanning me . . . .looking intently at me . . . .regarding me with pleasure. If we are going to know God, we MUST know what makes Him happy. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/what_does_god_like_part_1.mp3 As I study the subject of "knowing God" I can't help but evaluate my knowledge of him as I compare it to my knowledge of other people that I "know". I "know" my wife. I know what she likes. I know what she doesn't like. Do you know what God likes? This podcast looks at what the book says that He likes versus what we seem to believe. Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:29:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/what_does_god_like_part_1.mp3 Sep 2, 2008 - What Does God Like? As I study the subject of "knowing God" I can't help but evaluate my knowledge of him as I compare it to my knowledge of other people that I "know". I "know" my wife. I know what she likes. I know what she doesn't like. Do you know what God likes? This podcast looks at what the book says that He likes versus what we seem to believe. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/do_you_know_god.mp3 Do you know God? Most "Christians" would quickly answer that they do in fact know God, but the book paints a different picture of someone who "knows God". Listen to today's podcast and then ask yourself again . . . "do I know God?" Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:12:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/do_you_know_god.mp3 Aug 20, 2008 - It’s All About Who You Know Do you know God? Most "Christians" would quickly answer that they do in fact know God, but the book paints a different picture of someone who "knows God". Listen to today's podcast and then ask yourself again . . . "do I know God?" Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/stop_blaming_god.mp3 This podcast covers one of my favorite parables of Jesus'. This parable shows us in detail how God has granted us dominion in our life and how ridiculous it is for us to blame God when things go wrong. Mon, 18 Aug 2008 14:46:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/stop_blaming_god.mp3 Aug 18, 2008 - A Neat Little Parable from Jesus This podcast covers one of my favorite parables of Jesus'. This parable shows us in detail how God has granted us dominion in our life and how ridiculous it is for us to blame God when things go wrong. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/paul_goes_to_jerusalem.mp3 This is a very popular question in the jails and prisons where I preach. Many people claim that God put them in jail to get their attention, or to "slow them down" long enough to talk to them. Some don't know why He put them there, but they're certain that He is the one who did it. I find this to be sad. This podcast deals with a guy who get's a warning from God and ignores it and does what he wants. Because he didn't listen to God, he get's thrown in jail. If this story sounds familiar in your life, then you're in good company because this story is about a guy named Paul and he wrote most of the New Testament. Thu, 14 Aug 2008 17:56:01 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/paul_goes_to_jerusalem.mp3 Aug 14, 2008 - Why Did God Put Me in This Mess? This is a very popular question in the jails and prisons where I preach. Many people claim that God put them in jail to get their attention, or to "slow them down" long enough to talk to them. Some don't know why He put them there, but they're certain that He is the one who did it. I find this to be sad. This podcast deals with a guy who get's a warning from God and ignores it and does what he wants. Because he didn't listen to God, he get's thrown in jail. If this story sounds familiar in your life, then you're in good company because this story is about a guy named Paul and he wrote most of the New Testament. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/job_and_elihu.mp3 I have to admit that Job is one of my favorite things to talk about when I am on this subject. When I preach in prisons, invariably someone will speak up and ask (and, yes, I do encourage people to ask questions when I'm preaching, so please contact me if you have any) the age old question, "What about Job?". They do this thinking they've found some instance that refers to a world where God is in complete control of everything that happens and the only way the devil can get a "break" is if God let's him do something. Please don't believe that. Read the whole book of Job. It explains "where God is" when we are going through trouble and why these things happen to us. God is NOT the bad guy. This podcast deals with Job and looks at scripture that actually corrects Job for some stupid things he says. Most people(present company included) I meet have made the same stupid statements at some point in their life, so this podcast just might prove very helpful. Mon, 11 Aug 2008 15:21:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/job_and_elihu.mp3 Aug 11, 2008 - What About Job?  Why Did God Allow Those Bad Things to Happen to Him I have to admit that Job is one of my favorite things to talk about when I am on this subject. When I preach in prisons, invariably someone will speak up and ask (and, yes, I do encourage people to ask questions when I'm preaching, so please contact me if you have any) the age old question, "What about Job?". They do this thinking they've found some instance that refers to a world where God is in complete control of everything that happens and the only way the devil can get a "break" is if God let's him do something. Please don't believe that. Read the whole book of Job. It explains "where God is" when we are going through trouble and why these things happen to us. God is NOT the bad guy. This podcast deals with Job and looks at scripture that actually corrects Job for some stupid things he says. Most people(present company included) I meet have made the same stupid statements at some point in their life, so this podcast just might prove very helpful. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/does_god_tempt_us.mp3 This podcast looks at some enlightening scriptures that present a strong case for the fact that the devil is the source of death and tragedy in our lives. You wouldn't think this would be such a big revelation, but it seems just so easy to blame God. Listen to this with an open mind and look at some scriptures that you might have not seen before. Thu, 07 Aug 2008 23:48:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/does_god_tempt_us.mp3 Aug 7, 2008 - Good vs Evil . . . God vs Devil . . . Who is Messing up My Life? This podcast looks at some enlightening scriptures that present a strong case for the fact that the devil is the source of death and tragedy in our lives. You wouldn't think this would be such a big revelation, but it seems just so easy to blame God. Listen to this with an open mind and look at some scriptures that you might have not seen before. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/is_god_in_control.mp3 This is probably the most challenging part of this series of podcasts as it challenges you to evaluate exactly who is in charge of your life. We like to blame God for the terrible tragedies that we experience, but maybe this will change your mind. Thu, 07 Aug 2008 23:45:01 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/is_god_in_control.mp3 Aug 7, 2008 - Who is in Control? This is probably the most challenging part of this series of podcasts as it challenges you to evaluate exactly who is in charge of your life. We like to blame God for the terrible tragedies that we experience, but maybe this will change your mind. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/god_put_man_in_charge.mp3 One of the things that you hear when something goes wrong in your life, is that "Don't worry, just know God is in control". We deal with this statement and examine exactly where the source of our problem lies. Fri, 01 Aug 2008 01:47:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/god_put_man_in_charge.mp3 Jul 31, 2008 - God’s in Control . . . right? One of the things that you hear when something goes wrong in your life, is that "Don't worry, just know God is in control". We deal with this statement and examine exactly where the source of our problem lies. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/why_does_god_allow_bad_things_to_happen.mp3 One of my favorite ways that we use to blame God for the things that happen in our lives is to use the old "God allowed it" excuse. This completely removes us ( and more importantly, the devil ) from the situation and places all of guilt on our loving Father. If you have asked yourself, or your pastor, or your dog the question, "Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people?" then this podcast is for you. Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:17:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/why_does_god_allow_bad_things_to_happen.mp3 Jul 18, 2008 - Why Does God Allow Bad Things to Happen to Good People? One of my favorite ways that we use to blame God for the things that happen in our lives is to use the old "God allowed it" excuse. This completely removes us ( and more importantly, the devil ) from the situation and places all of guilt on our loving Father. If you have asked yourself, or your pastor, or your dog the question, "Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people?" then this podcast is for you. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/is_gods_will_always_done.mp3 Is everything that goes on on this planet part of a big plan that God has for us? Is His will always done? If God is in control, then why do bad things happen to good people. This podcast is the second installment in a series on what God's will is and how it plays out in our lives. Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:39:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/is_gods_will_always_done.mp3 Jul 17, 2008 - Is Everything that Happens Part of God’s Will? Is everything that goes on on this planet part of a big plan that God has for us? Is His will always done? If God is in control, then why do bad things happen to good people. This podcast is the second installment in a series on what God's will is and how it plays out in our lives. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/gods_will.mp3 There are all kinds of explanations offered by Christians when things go wrong in our lives. We don't want people to know that we don't have all the answers, so we conveniently make up excuses for "why bad things happen to good people." If you have struggled with this question, or if you're like me and have struggled with the answers we are generally provided, then check out this podcast and challenge the conventional way of thinking. Wed, 16 Jul 2008 16:31:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/gods_will.mp3 Jul 16, 2008 - Excuses We Make for God When Things Go Wrong There are all kinds of explanations offered by Christians when things go wrong in our lives. We don't want people to know that we don't have all the answers, so we conveniently make up excuses for "why bad things happen to good people." If you have struggled with this question, or if you're like me and have struggled with the answers we are generally provided, then check out this podcast and challenge the conventional way of thinking. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/grace_is_free.mp3 It just seems that nothing is free on this planet. There is always a hidden cost; always some fine print at the bottom that we somehow overlooked. There's always a shipping and handling charge or some other little "fee" that is tacked on to anything that we receive for "free". Grace changes all the rules. Grace breaks all the rules. We've seen that it doesn't make sense. Now see that it doesn't cost you anything . . . really. Tue, 15 Jul 2008 13:28:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/grace_is_free.mp3 Jul 15, 2008 - Free* It just seems that nothing is free on this planet. There is always a hidden cost; always some fine print at the bottom that we somehow overlooked. There's always a shipping and handling charge or some other little "fee" that is tacked on to anything that we receive for "free". Grace changes all the rules. Grace breaks all the rules. We've seen that it doesn't make sense. Now see that it doesn't cost you anything . . . really. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/luke_18.mp3 Today's podcast covers a story that Jesus tells about two people: one a sinner and the other a church-goer. Unless you're familiar with the story, I can guarantee you that the grace of God, as it's revealed in this parable, will surprise you as Jesus relates this account to the people gathered that day. Thu, 10 Jul 2008 13:21:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/luke_18.mp3 Jul 10, 2008 - Grace for Those Who Don’t Deserve It Today's podcast covers a story that Jesus tells about two people: one a sinner and the other a church-goer. Unless you're familiar with the story, I can guarantee you that the grace of God, as it's revealed in this parable, will surprise you as Jesus relates this account to the people gathered that day. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/do_the_math.mp3 One of the most difficult things to comprehend about grace is how unfair it seems. When you crunch the numbers, it looks like God is really getting the short end of the stick. What we fail to realize, is that this is exactly the way God wanted it. This is just another example of His great love for us. This podcast deals with a couple of parables in the bible and compares the way we look at the numbers versus how grace looks at them. Wed, 09 Jul 2008 13:40:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/do_the_math.mp3 Jul 9, 2008 - Do The Math . . . Grace Makes No Sense One of the most difficult things to comprehend about grace is how unfair it seems. When you crunch the numbers, it looks like God is really getting the short end of the stick. What we fail to realize, is that this is exactly the way God wanted it. This is just another example of His great love for us. This podcast deals with a couple of parables in the bible and compares the way we look at the numbers versus how grace looks at them. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/grace_would_no_longer_be_grace.mp3 Paul details exactly how free grace really is when he says in Romans 11, "And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace". I hope this podcast helps reinforce in your mind and in your life just exactly how "free" the grace of God is. Mon, 07 Jul 2008 13:34:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/grace_would_no_longer_be_grace.mp3 Jul 7, 2008 - When is Grace No Longer Grace? Paul details exactly how free grace really is when he says in Romans 11, "And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace". I hope this podcast helps reinforce in your mind and in your life just exactly how "free" the grace of God is. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/definition_of_grace.mp3 We've discussed God's love for us and have related it to the subject of Grace. This podcast attempts to define "grace" in terms that are more familiar to us. Grace removes our actions from the equation and focuses on a faithful, loving father who wants to provide his best for you. Thu, 03 Jul 2008 13:05:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/definition_of_grace.mp3 Jul 3, 2008 - Grace We've discussed God's love for us and have related it to the subject of Grace. This podcast attempts to define "grace" in terms that are more familiar to us. Grace removes our actions from the equation and focuses on a faithful, loving father who wants to provide his best for you. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/its_god_who_justifies.mp3 The love that God shows for his kids is exemplified in His directions to Hosea regarding Gomer. This story illustrates the textbook definition of God's grace. His love for us isn't changed by how we act towards him. That is amazing. Paul comments in Romans 8 that NOTHING can separate us from the love of Christ. Wed, 02 Jul 2008 13:30:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/its_god_who_justifies.mp3 Jul 2, 2008 - Surprise Surprise Surprise . . . Gomer Teaches Grace The love that God shows for his kids is exemplified in His directions to Hosea regarding Gomer. This story illustrates the textbook definition of God's grace. His love for us isn't changed by how we act towards him. That is amazing. Paul comments in Romans 8 that NOTHING can separate us from the love of Christ. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hosea_3.mp3 God's unchanging love is amazing. He loved you before the creation of the world, so your performance and accomplishments aren't a contributing factor to that love. You can't screw-up how much He loves you. I know . . . I've tried. Tue, 01 Jul 2008 13:26:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/hosea_3.mp3 Jul 1, 2008 - You Can’t Screw-Up How Much God Loves You God's unchanging love is amazing. He loved you before the creation of the world, so your performance and accomplishments aren't a contributing factor to that love. You can't screw-up how much He loves you. I know . . . I've tried. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/the_prodigal_son.mp3 One of the hardest things for us to understand is the true meaning of unconditional love. Most of the people that "love" us, would abandon us if we betrayed them. If you abused the people who loved you, I am quite certain that you would significantly reduce that number. That is where God's love for us is so different. He's loves us regardless of what we've done and what we do. This podcast tells the story of how God loves us even when we take what he provides for us, use it for our own perverse pleasure and completely abandon Him. Sound familiar? Listen to His love as we read this story. Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:20:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/the_prodigal_son.mp3 Jun 27, 2008 - God Loves You . . . regardless One of the hardest things for us to understand is the true meaning of unconditional love. Most of the people that "love" us, would abandon us if we betrayed them. If you abused the people who loved you, I am quite certain that you would significantly reduce that number. That is where God's love for us is so different. He's loves us regardless of what we've done and what we do. This podcast tells the story of how God loves us even when we take what he provides for us, use it for our own perverse pleasure and completely abandon Him. Sound familiar? Listen to His love as we read this story. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/love_that_surpasses_knowledge.mp3 You have probably heard someone tell you "God Loves You". I've probably heard it tossed about all my life. "Good" christians say it when they are afraid to say the word "Jesus" in public and want to act like they are showing love to someone. Bumper stickers have been saying it since the 70's. I probably can't count how many of those "Smiley Faces" I've seen that have the phrase emblazoned across them. Don't get me wrong . . . I'm not opposed to the phrase. I'm completely and absolutely in favor of it. My problem with it appearing everywhere, is that it has now become part of the landscape of American culture. ( at least here in the south it is, y'all ) Because we have seen it so much, I meet very few people that have actually stopped and tried to comprehend this little phrase. Paul even prays a prayer for the church at Ephesus in hopes that they might begin to understand how much God loves them. Have you ever stopped and pondered the fact that the creator of heaven and earth is absolutely, head-over-heels in love with you? Thu, 26 Jun 2008 20:53:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/love_that_surpasses_knowledge.mp3 Jun 26, 2008 - “God Loves You” is so cliche . . . You have probably heard someone tell you "God Loves You". I've probably heard it tossed about all my life. "Good" christians say it when they are afraid to say the word "Jesus" in public and want to act like they are showing love to someone. Bumper stickers have been saying it since the 70's. I probably can't count how many of those "Smiley Faces" I've seen that have the phrase emblazoned across them. Don't get me wrong . . . I'm not opposed to the phrase. I'm completely and absolutely in favor of it. My problem with it appearing everywhere, is that it has now become part of the landscape of American culture. ( at least here in the south it is, y'all ) Because we have seen it so much, I meet very few people that have actually stopped and tried to comprehend this little phrase. Paul even prays a prayer for the church at Ephesus in hopes that they might begin to understand how much God loves them. Have you ever stopped and pondered the fact that the creator of heaven and earth is absolutely, head-over-heels in love with you? Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/he_who_has_been_forgiven_much.mp3 Jesus tells a very short, simple story in Luke 7 that teaches us how to "love much". This story epitomizes Christianity today as it details followers of God who "love little" versus those who "love much". If you are struggling with the inability to love others, this is a good starting place. I John 4:19 says, "we love because He first loved us" and this podcast attempts to relate this scripture to our everyday life. Tue, 24 Jun 2008 13:30:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/he_who_has_been_forgiven_much.mp3 Jun 24, 2008 - How to Go from “Not Loving” to “Loving” Jesus tells a very short, simple story in Luke 7 that teaches us how to "love much". This story epitomizes Christianity today as it details followers of God who "love little" versus those who "love much". If you are struggling with the inability to love others, this is a good starting place. I John 4:19 says, "we love because He first loved us" and this podcast attempts to relate this scripture to our everyday life. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/why_not_rather_be_cheated.mp3 All too often we feel that we have somehow been cheated or treated unfairly. Whether it is in an athletic endeavor where the referee is clearly ( at least in our mind) helping the other team, or when someone "breaks in line" in front of us as we are nearing the end of a two-hour wait; whatever the occasion, we feel a strong sense of injustice. I have always loved what Martin Luther King said when he wrote, from inside a jail cell, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." Sometimes when I feel cheated I think of that . . . until God puts things back into perspective for me. If you think you are experiencing a "raw deal", then pause and consider what Dr. King went through, or better yet, consider what Christians are going through in Iran or Burma or Chad right now. Paul had an even deeper approach to our feelings of injustice in his first letter to the Corinthians and I believe this truth will help you when you are going through similar situations. Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:18:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/why_not_rather_be_cheated.mp3 Jun 20, 2008 - That’s Not Fair!  and other cries of injustice All too often we feel that we have somehow been cheated or treated unfairly. Whether it is in an athletic endeavor where the referee is clearly ( at least in our mind) helping the other team, or when someone "breaks in line" in front of us as we are nearing the end of a two-hour wait; whatever the occasion, we feel a strong sense of injustice. I have always loved what Martin Luther King said when he wrote, from inside a jail cell, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." Sometimes when I feel cheated I think of that . . . until God puts things back into perspective for me. If you think you are experiencing a "raw deal", then pause and consider what Dr. King went through, or better yet, consider what Christians are going through in Iran or Burma or Chad right now. Paul had an even deeper approach to our feelings of injustice in his first letter to the Corinthians and I believe this truth will help you when you are going through similar situations. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/these_three_remain.mp3 1 Corinthians 13 says,"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." Galatians 5:6 is also briefly covered as it proclaims, "What matters is faith expressed through love". This podcast ties up the previous podcasts on love and attempts to challenge you to set love as a priority in your life. Thu, 19 Jun 2008 13:39:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/these_three_remain.mp3 Jun 19, 2008 - These Three Remain. . . Faith, Hope and Love 1 Corinthians 13 says,"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." Galatians 5:6 is also briefly covered as it proclaims, "What matters is faith expressed through love". This podcast ties up the previous podcasts on love and attempts to challenge you to set love as a priority in your life. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/how_to_lay_down_your_life.mp3 This podcast deals with the ins and outs of making yourself a living sacrifice. We've defined "laying down your life" as something more than just "laying down your death". If you've wondered how that actually plays out in real life, give it a listen. Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:34:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/how_to_lay_down_your_life.mp3 Jun 18, 2008 - How To Lay Down Your Life in Three Easy Steps! This podcast deals with the ins and outs of making yourself a living sacrifice. We've defined "laying down your life" as something more than just "laying down your death". If you've wondered how that actually plays out in real life, give it a listen. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/who_do_you_love.mp3 One of the favorite questions that people seem to have when we are discussing love is "who is my neighbor?". Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as you love yourself" so many people strive to define their neighbor as someone that is easy to love. Many people say that Jesus was commanding us to love other christians, but listen to this podcast and see how deep the rabbit hole goes. Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:40:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/who_do_you_love.mp3 Jun 17, 2008 - Love Your Neighbor as You Love Yourself . . . Who’s My Neighbor? One of the favorite questions that people seem to have when we are discussing love is "who is my neighbor?". Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as you love yourself" so many people strive to define their neighbor as someone that is easy to love. Many people say that Jesus was commanding us to love other christians, but listen to this podcast and see how deep the rabbit hole goes. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/whats_love_got_to_do_with_it_5.mp3 This podcast deals with the practical application of the simple command to "love one another". Loving you enemies and being "kind to the ungrateful and the wicked" are just some of the fun things we get into today! Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:29:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/whats_love_got_to_do_with_it_5.mp3 Jun 16, 2008 - What’s Love Got to Do With It? Part 5 - Who to Love? This podcast deals with the practical application of the simple command to "love one another". Loving you enemies and being "kind to the ungrateful and the wicked" are just some of the fun things we get into today! Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/whats_love_got_to_do_with_it_4.mp3 This podcast reveals what is really happening in John 21 when Jesus asks Peter, "Do you love me", three times in a row. If you are familiar with agape (or agapao) and phileo, then this passage will help deepen your understanding of their differences. See how Peter responds knowing that he himself denied Jesus three times on the night of His crucifixion. If you've been discouraged by a feeling of "letting God down" then maybe Peter's experience will help you overcome those feelings. Fri, 13 Jun 2008 13:23:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/whats_love_got_to_do_with_it_4.mp3 Jun 13, 2008 - What’s Love Got to Do With It? Part 4 - John 21 - “Do You Love Me?” This podcast reveals what is really happening in John 21 when Jesus asks Peter, "Do you love me", three times in a row. If you are familiar with agape (or agapao) and phileo, then this passage will help deepen your understanding of their differences. See how Peter responds knowing that he himself denied Jesus three times on the night of His crucifixion. If you've been discouraged by a feeling of "letting God down" then maybe Peter's experience will help you overcome those feelings. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/whats_love_got_to_do_with_it_3.mp3 This podcast is devoted almost entirely to creating a clear definition of the two words translated "love" in the New Testament. Philein and it's verb form, phileo, are used in conjunction with other greek roots throughout the scripture and are translated as love, hospitality and many other words. Agapan, or agape, and agapao are also examined in this podcast. We attempt to understand these words through the context in which they are used as well as through definitions given by Vines, Weust and the Strongs's concordance. This podcast strives to clarify in your mind the differences between these two words as we read them in the Word of God. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 13:44:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/whats_love_got_to_do_with_it_3.mp3 Jun 12, 2008 - What’s Love Got to Do With It? Part 3 - Love Defined This podcast is devoted almost entirely to creating a clear definition of the two words translated "love" in the New Testament. Philein and it's verb form, phileo, are used in conjunction with other greek roots throughout the scripture and are translated as love, hospitality and many other words. Agapan, or agape, and agapao are also examined in this podcast. We attempt to understand these words through the context in which they are used as well as through definitions given by Vines, Weust and the Strongs's concordance. This podcast strives to clarify in your mind the differences between these two words as we read them in the Word of God. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/whats_love_got_to_do_with_it_2.mp3 We start breaking down the word "love" and see what John meant when he said, "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers." We attempt to gain a better understanding of "agape" or "agapao" as we look at more examples of Jesus using these words in his teachings to his disciples. In particular, we look at what the bible calls Jesus showing them the "full extent of his love" as he washes his disciples feet during Passover at what we call the "Last Supper". Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:16:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/whats_love_got_to_do_with_it_2.mp3 Jun 11, 2008 - What’s Love Got to Do With It? Part 2 - Laying Down Your Life We start breaking down the word "love" and see what John meant when he said, "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers." We attempt to gain a better understanding of "agape" or "agapao" as we look at more examples of Jesus using these words in his teachings to his disciples. In particular, we look at what the bible calls Jesus showing them the "full extent of his love" as he washes his disciples feet during Passover at what we call the "Last Supper". Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/whats_love_got_to_do_with_it.mp3 I love pizza(really!). I love my dog(most of the time). I love my wife(all the time). Love has many different meanings. Exactly what does it mean to "love one another"? For that matter, what does it mean to "love god"? How 'bout "love your neighbor as yourself"? These are real popular phrases in christianity (at least they're supposed to be) but how can we understand them, much less do them, if we don't really understand the word "love"? This podcast uses the bible's own definition, given by John (the disciple), to explain the word. Tue, 10 Jun 2008 13:09:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/whats_love_got_to_do_with_it.mp3 Jun 10, 2008 - What’s Love Got to Do With It? I love pizza(really!). I love my dog(most of the time). I love my wife(all the time). Love has many different meanings. Exactly what does it mean to "love one another"? For that matter, what does it mean to "love god"? How 'bout "love your neighbor as yourself"? These are real popular phrases in christianity (at least they're supposed to be) but how can we understand them, much less do them, if we don't really understand the word "love"? This podcast uses the bible's own definition, given by John (the disciple), to explain the word. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/are_you_in_love_with_god_5.mp3 Final podcast in our mini-series on loving God. This compares what we consider "loving God" to be with how the bible defines "loving God". We look at Mary and Martha and find ourselves somewhere between these two extreme-ends of the spectrum of what has traditionally been considered "love" as it relates to our creator. Mon, 09 Jun 2008 13:34:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/are_you_in_love_with_god_5.mp3 Jun 9, 2008 - Are You In Love with God? Part 5 Final podcast in our mini-series on loving God. This compares what we consider "loving God" to be with how the bible defines "loving God". We look at Mary and Martha and find ourselves somewhere between these two extreme-ends of the spectrum of what has traditionally been considered "love" as it relates to our creator. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/are_you_in_love_with_god_4.mp3 Part 4 of "Are You in Love With God?" covers an approach to obedience that you may have not considered. We look at the actual application of what Jesus calls the "greatest" commandment and how we get from where we are to where he wants us to be. Fri, 06 Jun 2008 13:22:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/are_you_in_love_with_god_4.mp3 Jun 6, 2008 - Are You In Love with God? Part 4 Part 4 of "Are You in Love With God?" covers an approach to obedience that you may have not considered. We look at the actual application of what Jesus calls the "greatest" commandment and how we get from where we are to where he wants us to be. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/are_you_in_love_with_god_3.mp3 The third part of "Are You in Love with God?". Examining our attitude towards God and his kids. This podcast answers the question, "What is pure religion in God's eyes?". If you can't answer this question, then give it a listen. Wed, 04 Jun 2008 23:12:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/are_you_in_love_with_god_3.mp3 Jun 4, 2008 - Are You In Love with God? Part 3 The third part of "Are You in Love with God?". Examining our attitude towards God and his kids. This podcast answers the question, "What is pure religion in God's eyes?". If you can't answer this question, then give it a listen. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/are_you_in_love_with_god_2.mp3 A continuation of the previous podcast. We look at how our lives reflect our love towards God and deal with the whole "obedience" issue as God sees it. Jeremiah 17:10 says that "I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve." This emphasizes our motivation rather than our actions. We too often get caught up in whether our actions are "good" or "bad" and overlook this verse. This podcast will hopefully help you in that area. Wed, 04 Jun 2008 13:28:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/are_you_in_love_with_god_2.mp3 Jun 4, 2008 - Are You In Love with God?  Part 2 A continuation of the previous podcast. We look at how our lives reflect our love towards God and deal with the whole "obedience" issue as God sees it. Jeremiah 17:10 says that "I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve." This emphasizes our motivation rather than our actions. We too often get caught up in whether our actions are "good" or "bad" and overlook this verse. This podcast will hopefully help you in that area. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/are_you_in_love_with_god.mp3 Are you in love with God? It's a really simple question but unfortunately, it's one that most of us have never asked ourselves. Everybody says they "love God", but how many of us actually consider ourselves as being "in love" with God? This podcast will hopefully challenge you to evaluate your relationship with God and, if necessary, make adjustments that will change your view of the creator of heaven and earth. Sun, 01 Jun 2008 14:25:00 -0500 http://freedom2captives.com/podcast/are_you_in_love_with_god.mp3 Jun 1, 2008 - Are You In Love with God? Are you in love with God? It's a really simple question but unfortunately, it's one that most of us have never asked ourselves. Everybody says they "love God", but how many of us actually consider ourselves as being "in love" with God? This podcast will hopefully challenge you to evaluate your relationship with God and, if necessary, make adjustments that will change your view of the creator of heaven and earth. Steve Campisi no faith, hope, love