Become New with John Ortberg
Join John Ortberg each day for 10 minutes of spiritual guidance on the person we are becoming.
Episodes
45. How Should Christians Love Their Country?
How should followers of Jesus love their country?In this Independence Day reflection, John Ortberg explores Psalm 8, the Gettysburg Address, and the biblical foundation of human dignity.Drawing from the writings of Abraham Lincoln, philosopher Nicholas Wolterstorff, and the opening chapters of Genesis, John explains why every human being possesses immeasurable worth—not because of what they achiev
44. What Does It Mean to Fear God?
What does it actually mean to fear God?In this reflection on Psalm 130, John Ortberg shares from a reunion with lifelong friends and explores one of Scripture's most misunderstood ideas.Why does the psalm say:"With You there is forgiveness; therefore You are feared"?Drawing on the wisdom of Thomas Aquinas, John explains the difference between fearing punishment and revering someone
43. Why You Need Someone to Correct You
Would you welcome a loving rebuke?In this reflection on Psalm 141, John Ortberg explores one of the most surprising prayers in Scripture:"Let a righteous person strike me—that is a kindness."Why would anyone ask to be corrected?Through stories from the life of Winston Churchill, personal reflections, and the wisdom of the Psalms, John shows how humility and honest feedback can become pow
42. The Secret to Aging Well (with Nancy Ortberg)
Can you actually grow better with age?In this reflection on Psalm 92, John Ortberg is joined by his wife, Nancy Ortberg, for a warm and thoughtful conversation about lifelong spiritual growth.Together they explore the psalm's remarkable promise:"They will still bear fruit in old age; they will stay fresh and green."From stories of nursing patients to reflections on curiosity, hospit
41. How Does God Actually Guide Us?
How does God actually guide His people?In this reflection on Psalm 32, John Ortberg explores one of Scripture's most comforting promises:"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go."Drawing on insights from Dallas Willard and the story of Peter in the book of Acts, John explains the difference between mechanical control and personal guidance—and why God desires relat
40. Nobody Is Self-Made
What if the key to gratitude is realizing that none of us is self-made?In this reflection on Psalm 136, John Ortberg explores the repeated refrain:"His love endures forever."Through a powerful exercise inspired by philosopher Rebecca Konyndyk DeYoung, John invites us to trace the hidden network of people and gifts behind the things we enjoy every day—and ultimately back to God Himself.Th
39. Don't Let Your Emotions Run Your Life
How do you process painful emotions without letting them control your life?In this conversation on Psalm 30, John Ortberg sits down with counselor and friend Rick Blackmon to explore one of the most practical lessons in the Psalms:Own your emotions—but don't enthrone them.Together they discuss anxiety, grief, anger, praise, humor, counseling, and the hope found in God's presence.This epi
38. The Three Ingredients of Gratitude (Psalm 103)
How do you become a grateful person?In this reflection on Psalm 103, John Ortberg explores one of the great themes of spiritual life: gratitude.At the center of Psalm 103 is a simple command:"Forget not all His benefits."Drawing from philosopher Robert C. Roberts and the rich imagery of the Psalm itself, John explores why gratitude grows through remembering and why forgetting often leads
37. Do you have FAITH? Your life already knows the answer.
Do you ever struggle with doubt?In this teaching on Psalm 91, John Ortberg explores faith, trust, doubt, works, and what it really means to believe.Drawing heavily from the teachings of Dallas Willard, John introduces a powerful framework for understanding belief and asks a challenging question:What do your actions reveal that you actually trust?This episode explores:- Psalm 91 and trusting God- T
36. The Surprising Link Between Love and Attention
What if one of the greatest acts of love is simply paying attention?In this reflection on Psalm 8, John Ortberg and Laura Turner explore wonder, attentiveness, and the surprising connection between love and noticing.Drawing on insights from Marilynne Robinson, the film Lady Bird, and the writings of Simone Weil, they invite us to slow down and rediscover God's presence in the ordinary.This ep
35. The People Who Shaped Your Soul
What if one of the greatest gifts you could give someone is helping them develop a taste for what is good?In this reflection on Psalm 34, John Ortberg revisits the famous invitation:"Taste and see that the Lord is good."But this time he explores a surprising idea: every one of us is a tastemaker.Through stories from Anthony Bourdain, insights from C. S. Lewis and G. K. Chesterton, and re
34. Why Faith Must Be Experienced
How do you move faith from your head to your heart?In this reflection on Psalm 34, John Ortberg explores one of the most famous invitations in Scripture:"Taste and see that the Lord is good."Many people know about God. Far fewer learn to experience God's goodness in everyday life.Drawing from the story of David, reflections from Augustine of Hippo, and a memorable scene from Prince
33. Barely Hanging On? This One's for You.
What do you pray when life hurts so much that ordinary words no longer feel adequate?In this reflection on Psalm 69, John Ortberg explores one of the most emotionally intense prayers in all of Scripture.Drawing a surprising connection to Howl, John examines how the Psalms give voice to grief, despair, loss, betrayal, injustice, addiction, depression, and suffering.This episode explores:- Psalm 69
32. How to Love God
How do you actually learn to love God?In this reflection on Psalm 31, John Ortberg explores one surprising pathway to loving God more deeply: curiosity.Drawing from theologian Cornelius Plantinga Jr., relationship researcher John Gottman, and Dallas Willard, John invites us to think about building a "love map" for God.This episode explores:- Psalm 31 and loving God- Curiosity as a spirit
31. How A River Runs Through It Teaches Us About Grace
What if grace has a rhythm?In this teaching on Psalm 46, John Ortberg explores stillness, spiritual disciplines, grace, and the river of life that flows throughout Scripture.Drawing from A River Runs Through It, John shares a powerful picture of spiritual formation through the practice of learning God's rhythms.This episode explores:- Psalm 46 and God's presence- The purpose of spiritual
30. Why Your Life Matters
Do you matter?It may be one of the most important questions a human being can ask.In this teaching on Psalm 127, John Ortberg explores meaning, significance, anxiety, achievement, and what the Bible says about human worth.Drawing from the work of Rebecca Goldstein, John examines what she calls a "crisis of mattering" and why so many people feel insignificant despite living in an age of u
29. God Is Not Nice. God Is Kind.
What is the difference between being nice and being kind?In this reflection on Psalm 138, John Ortberg explores one of the most beautiful biblical ideas: God's loving kindness.Why does Scripture constantly praise God for His kindness but never describe Him as "nice"? What is the difference? And how might understanding God's kindness transform the way we live?This episode explor
28. Why Some Relationships Thrive and Others Don't (Psalm 133)
What is the secret to deep relationships?In this teaching on Psalm 133, John Ortberg explores intimacy, connection, loneliness, and the small daily habits that strengthen relationships.Drawing from the work of relationship researcher John Gottman, John explains the powerful idea of "bids for connection"—the small invitations people make every day to share life together.This episode explo
27. God’s Favorite Word
What if unity is one of the things God cares about most?In this teaching on Psalm 133, John Ortberg explores unity, reconciliation, the Trinity, and Jesus' remarkable prayer that His followers would be one.Moving from Psalm 133 to Ephesians 4 and John 17, John shows how unity is not merely a church strategy or relational ideal. It is rooted in the very nature of God Himself. Father, Son, and
26. How to Pray When You're Struggling (with Kevin Palau)
What do you do when your soul feels downcast?In this conversation, John Ortberg sits down with Kevin Palau to explore Psalm 42, anxiety, discouragement, emotional honesty, and hope.Kevin shares candidly about his own struggles with anxiety, the pressures of leadership, and why Psalm 42 has become one of the most important prayers in his spiritual life.This episode explores:- Anxiety and spiritual
25. Psalm 23 and the Life You've Always Wanted
Can you really live without lack?In this reflection on Psalm 23, John Ortberg draws from Life Without Lack to explore one of the most beloved passages in all of Scripture.What does it mean to say, "The Lord is my shepherd"? What if "I shall not want" is not a promise that life will be easy, but an invitation to stop being driven by fear, scarcity, and unsatisfied desire?This ep
24. Psalm 59 Explained (The Danger of Spiritualized Prayer)
What's your story today?In this teaching on Psalm 59, John Ortberg explores one of the most important lessons of the Psalms: prayer is always prayed from inside a story.Drawing from Answering God, John challenges the idea of "spiritualized prayer" — prayer that removes the conflict, fear, anger, disappointment, and messiness of ordinary life.Psalm 59 was written in the middle of Dav
23. What If Refuge Was a Verb? (with Lisa Cuss)
What if refuge was something you practiced?In this conversation, John Ortberg talks with therapist and trauma specialist Lisa Cuss about anxiety, church hurt, attachment theory, the nervous system, and Psalm 31.Lisa shares how reading the Psalms through the lens of the nervous system helped her understand David's prayers in a completely new way. His cries of fear, confusion, and desperation s
22. God Loves Imperfect People
What if your imperfections are not your greatest problem?In this teaching on Psalm 138, John Ortberg explores the difference between perfection and perfectionism, the beauty of human weakness, and why God has so much compassion for imperfect people.Drawing from Psalm 138, Psalm 103, the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, and the image of cracked pottery repaired with gold, John shows how God often cre
21. Why We Can’t Worry Our Way to Peace
How do you calm and quiet your soul?In this deeply practical conversation on Psalm 131, John Ortberg and Steve Cuss explore anxiety, emotional awareness, prayer, soothing, and learning to rest in the presence of God.Psalm 131 offers one of the gentlest images in all of Scripture: “I have calmed and quieted myself, like a weaned child with its mother.”This episode explores:- Anxiety and emotional a
20. Psalm 1 and the Problem With Twitter
What is social media doing to your soul?In this conversation, John Ortberg and Steve Cuss explore Psalm 1, online outrage, anxiety, reactivity, and the emotional formation happening through social media.Why do platforms like Twitter/X, Facebook, and Instagram so easily pull people toward outrage, contempt, comparison, and self-righteousness? And what do the Psalms have to say about it?This episode
19. The Secret Language of the Psalms
Why should we pray the Psalms slowly?In this reflective teaching, John Ortberg explores the nature of Hebrew poetry, the structure of the Psalms, and why the language of prayer was never meant to be rushed.Using Psalm 90 and several other Psalms, John unpacks the beauty of biblical parallelism — repetition, pivots, refrains, and poetic movement that deepen meaning and slow the soul down enough to
18. How Worship Neutralizes Envy
Why do other people’s lives always seem better?In this teaching on Psalm 73, John Ortberg explores envy, comparison, resentment, worship, and the deep human struggle of feeling overlooked while others seem to prosper.The psalmist honestly confesses:“I envied the arrogant.”What follows is one of the most emotionally honest prayers in the Psalms — a prayer about jealousy, discouragement, unfairness,
17. Psalm 126 and the Spiritual Power of Joy
Is it possible laughter could be a form of prayer?In this joyful and surprisingly profound teaching on Psalm 126, John Ortberg explores joy, humor, delight, neuroscience, and why laughter may be far more spiritual than many people realize.Why do children laugh so much more than adults? Why does spontaneous laughter feel healing? And what does it mean that God Himself laughs?This episode explores:-
16. Remembering Is a Form of Prayer
Why does memory matter spiritually?In this reflective teaching on Psalm 77, John Ortberg explores remembrance, gratitude, grief, forgiveness, healing, and why memory itself can become a form of prayer.Using deeply personal family stories, Memorial Day reflections, and Psalm 77’s call to “remember the deeds of the Lord,” John reflects on the spiritual importance of remembering honestly and hopefull
15. Why Gratitude Cannot Be Forced
Why is gratitude so difficult to sustain?In this teaching on Psalm 100, John Ortberg explores the deeper source of genuine gratitude and why thankfulness cannot simply be forced through willpower.Using reflections from Robert Hayden and his poem Those Winter Sundays, John reflects on the hidden acts of love that quietly sustain human life every day — often without being noticed or thanked.This epi
14. Why You Should Stop Having a “Quiet Time”
Why would God include violent prayers in the Bible?In this deeply challenging teaching on Psalm 137, John Ortberg explores anger, injustice, enemies, suffering, and why the Psalms are far more emotionally honest than most modern spirituality.John begins with a provocative statement: “You should stop having a quiet time.”Using reflections from Eugene Peterson, this episode explores the difference b
13. Why We Avoid What Matters Most (Psalm 42)
Why do we avoid uncomfortable truth?In this teaching on Psalm 42, John Ortberg explores self-awareness, attention, distraction, procrastination, and the deep spiritual thirst at the center of the human soul.Using Psalm 42’s famous image — “As the deer pants for streams of water…” — John reflects on how human beings often distract themselves from the deeper realities happening inside them. Why do w
12. Psalm 19 and the Problem of Self-Deception
Why is self-awareness so difficult?In this teaching on Psalm 19, John Ortberg explores self-deception, blind spots, hidden faults, and the surprising difficulty of honestly seeing ourselves.The Psalmist asks: “Who can discern their own errors?”That question launches a fascinating exploration of:- Freud and the unconscious mind- Cognitive bias and self-deception- Why humans protect their image- The
11. What Bowling Teaches Us About Peace
What does bowling have to do with spiritual life?In this teaching on Psalm 19, John Ortberg explores anxiety, surrender, creation, grace, and the deep human longing for soul rest.Using a surprisingly powerful bowling illustration, John reflects on how most people continue trying to control outcomes long after the “ball” has already left their hands. Psalm 19 offers another way: let go, trust God,
10. Who May Dwell on the Holy Mountain? (Psalm 15 Explained)
What actually creates a peaceful life?In this teaching on Psalm 15, John Ortberg explores the ancient biblical vision of an “unshakable” life — a life rooted in goodness, grace, truth, and the presence of God.Psalm 15 asks:“Who may dwell on your holy mountain?”The answer turns out to be both beautiful and deeply challenging.Along the way, John reflects on:Why peace is more than a feelingThe connec
9. Psalm 16 and the Secret of a Steady Heart
What’s the one thing that would make today a good day?Psalm 16 says it’s simpler—and deeper—than you think.In this teaching, John Ortberg walks through Psalm 16 and introduces a powerful idea: your life-scape—the inner world where your thoughts, desires, and attention live.Most of us drift through our days reacting to whatever comes. But Psalm 16 invites us to something different: “I have set the
8. A Simple Way to Pray (Psalm 57)
Ever feel stuck in your thoughts… and don’t know how to pray?Here’s a simple, practical method that actually works.In this teaching, John Ortberg walks through a powerful and practical way to pray your emotions using Psalm 57.Adapted from psychological insights and grounded in Scripture, this ABCD prayer method helps you move from anxiety and rumination to clarity, trust, and peace.You’ll learn ho
7. A Dangerous Prayer That Can Set You Free
What do you do with anger you can’t let go of?What if the Bible actually teaches you how to pray it?In Part 3 of this conversation, John Ortberg and Rankin Wilbourne tackle one of the most difficult emotions we face: anger.Psalm 109 is one of the most shocking passages in Scripture—full of raw, unfiltered anger. So why is it in the Bible?In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why denying anger isn’t spir
6. Why We Don’t Know How to Lament
What if the pain you’re avoiding is actually the path to healing?And what if God already gave you the words for it?In Part 2 of this conversation, John Ortberg and Rankin Wilbourne explore one of the most overlooked practices in the Christian life: lament.If the Psalms are the prayer book of God’s people, why are so many of them… sad? And why do we avoid praying that way?You’ll discover:- Why lame
5. Why We Don’t Know How to Pray Our Emotions (with Rankin Wilbourne)
Most people don’t know how to pray their emotions… even after years of faith.What if the Psalms were meant to teach you how?In this conversation, John Ortberg sits down with author and pastor Rankin Wilbourne to explore a life-changing idea: learning to pray your emotions.Many of us either suppress our feelings or let them control us—but the Psalms offer a better way. They give us language, permis
4. How to Bring Your Pain to God (Psalm 13)
How long can you carry something before it breaks you?And what do you do when God feels… silent?In this teaching on Psalm 13, John Ortberg walks us through one of the most honest prayers in Scripture: “How long, O Lord?”When pain lingers, when answers don’t come, and when God feels distant, we face a choice. We can grumble—turning inward in bitterness and withdrawal—or we can groan—bringing our pa
3. Renew Your Mind with Psalm 8
Everyone’s talking about mindfulness… but what if we’ve missed the most important part?What if the key isn’t your mind being focused—but God’s mind being focused on you?In this teaching on Psalm 8, John Ortberg explores a deeper kind of mindfulness—one that begins not with your attention, but with God’s.While we often struggle with distraction, anxiety, and rumination, Psalm 8 reveals something su
2. Anxious About the Future? Pray This Psalm
We live in a world obsessed with predicting the future… and terrified of it.So how do you actually live when everything feels uncertain?In this teaching on Psalm 3, John Ortberg explores one of the most universal human struggles: uncertainty. We don’t know what’s coming next—and instead of trusting God, we often try to control, predict, or even “gamble” on the future.But Psalm 3 offers a different
1. The Greatest Prayer You Ever Prayed
What if your life is already headed in a direction… and you didn’t choose it?Psalm 1 says there are only two ways to live and only one leads to flourishing.In this opening teaching of a new series on the Psalms, John Ortberg invites us into one of the most important questions we can ask: What is my way of life leading to?Psalm 1 describes a person who is “blessed”—not just happy, but deeply rooted
The Life of Joseph: A Study on Forgiveness
Did you enjoy this teaching on Forgiveness? Download the free print and go study guide to experience the journey in its fullness: becomenew.com/study-guides Is reconciliation really possible… after betrayal?In one of the most powerful stories in the Bible, we see the answer: yes—but it’s complicated.In today’s teaching, we walk through the story of Joseph and his brothers—a story filled with jealo
What Forgiveness is NOT
What is forgiveness… really? And what if most of us have been getting it wrong?In today’s teaching, we define forgiveness in a clear and powerful way: replacing ill will with goodwill. But that raises big questions—Does forgiveness excuse wrongdoing? Does it ignore justice? Should we forgive everything?Drawing from Scripture, real-world examples, and the work of Everett Worthington, this message u
How Bitterness Slowly Takes Over
Most of us think unforgiveness is something we choose.But what if it’s actually something that slowly grows inside of us… without us even realizing it?In today’s teaching, we explore the road to NOT forgiving—how small hurts turn into resentment, how rumination fuels bitterness, and how unforgiveness quietly takes hold of your heart.Drawing from Scripture, personal reflection, and the research of
This Man Forgave His Mom’s Killer
What does it take to forgive the unforgivable?In this powerful conversation, Everett Worthington shares his personal story of facing unimaginable loss—and the journey toward forgiveness that followed.Blending deep emotional honesty with practical wisdom, this teaching explores the darkness of the human heart, the reality of anger and rage, and the surprising path that leads to healing. You’ll disc
Five Steps to Forgive Anyone
Forgiveness sounds simple… until you actually have to do it.In today’s teaching, we begin a powerful journey into forgiveness—not as a vague idea, but as a real, practical process that leads to healing and freedom. Because the truth is: we all carry wounds… and we all need to forgive.Drawing from Scripture, the teachings of Everett Worthington, and real-life experience, this message introduces a p
The Secret to Spiritual Growth
Did you enjoy this teaching? We have a free study guide on this entire series if you'd like to walk through it with a friend or small group! Just download, print and go! Get it here... Becomenew.com/study-guidesSubmission.Just hearing that word can feel… uncomfortable.In a culture that prizes independence, autonomy, and “doing life your way,” the idea of submitting to someone else can sound o
How Hidden Sin Hurts Us
What if the thing you most want to hide… is the very thing keeping you stuck?In today’s teaching, we explore the powerful (and often avoided) spiritual practice of confession—the act of telling the truth about your life to God and to a trusted person. It may feel uncomfortable, even painful, but it might also be the key to real freedom.Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and insi
Is Worship More Than Music?
What if worship isn’t just something you do at church… but something that could transform your entire life?In today’s teaching, we explore the true meaning of worship—not as music or a moment, but as a way of seeing and responding to the goodness, beauty, and greatness of God in everyday life.Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and even the simple joy of things like coffee and na
Breaking Approval-Addiction
What if the reason you feel anxious, exhausted, or constantly “on”… is because you’re living for other people’s approval?In today’s teaching, we explore the powerful and often overlooked spiritual discipline of secrecy—doing good without anyone knowing. It sounds simple… but it might be one of the hardest things you’ll ever try.Drawing from the teachings of Dallas Willard and the words of Jesus in
We Need Silence
Silence might be the most uncomfortable… and most transformative… practice in your life.In a world filled with constant noise, distraction, and the pressure to always say something, the discipline of silence feels almost impossible. But what if silence is actually the doorway to peace, trust, and deeper connection with God?In this teaching, we explore why silence matters, how it reshapes your inne
Is Life Fair? What the Bible Actually Says
Enjoying these teachings on CHARACTER? Get the Free Study Guide: BecomeNew.com/study-guides - Download, print, and go!Is life actually fair? It’s a question we all wrestle with—at home, at work, in culture, and deep in our own stories. But what if fairness isn’t just something we demand… what if it’s something we’re called to become?In today’s teaching, we explore the biblical vision of fairness a
How to Break the Cycle of Temptation
Why is self-control so hard? You’re not alone. Research shows that among all character strengths, self-control ranks dead last in how people rate themselves. But what if the problem isn’t just your willpower… what if it’s how you’re using it?In this teaching, we explore the deeper truth behind self-control—why willpower gets depleted, how habits shape your life, and why “white-knuckling it” isn’t
The Key to Better Relationships (We're worse at this than we think)
Most of us think we’re pretty good at reading people. Research says… we’re not.In today’s teaching, we explore the powerful and often overlooked skill of social intelligence, the ability to understand your own emotions and accurately read what’s happening in others. From facial expressions to tone of voice to body language, this skill shapes every relationship you have. Through biblical insight (i
When Life Gets Hard - Keep Going
Life doesn’t always give you the path you would choose...There’s a race set before you, shaped by your circumstances, your story, and the challenges you didn’t ask for. The question isn’t whether you chose it… the question is: will you run it with perseverance?In this powerful teaching, we explore what it really means to persevere—not just through willpower, but through purpose. Drawing from Scrip
Play to Your Strengths
What if the key to real character growth isn’t fixing your weaknesses… but fully living into your strengths?In today’s teaching, Dr. John Ortberg explores the idea of signature character strengths — those unique qualities God has wired into you that, when used intentionally, can transform your life and the lives of others. Drawing from research in positive psychology and the example of Barnabas, t
No Condemnation Review +Updates
Tell us what you thought of NO CONDEMNATION:https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NYQZHPDHere's what's coming up... 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼- We have a new phone number! 51504If you subscribe to our texts you'll start hearing from us at 51504 soon- FormationPodcast.com launches April 22ndWe will continue with the daily 10 minute teachings here - Formation Newsletter and Podcast are a new offering.- New Stud
54. The Way into a Life Without Condemnation
Take the No Condemnation Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NYQZHPDWhat if the biggest problem was never “them”… but what happens in us?In this final episode of the No Condemnation series, John brings us to a powerful turning point in Romans 1–2. Paul builds a case against “them” — their sin, their failure, their corruption — until the reader is fully on board.And then he turns it: “You, there
53. You've Been Blaming the Wrong Person
What makes the cross of Jesus different from every other story of sacrifice?In this episode, John explores the idea of scapegoating through the work of René Girard and how human societies have always dealt with conflict the same way: by finding someone to blame. We find ourselves at the cross. The cross of Jesus changes everything. For the first time, the scapegoat is truly innocent and instead of
52. Shaming Others is Changing YOU
Why doesn’t shaming actually work?In this episode, Dr. John Ortberg explores two powerful reasons why condemnation and public shaming often backfire and what they do to both the person being judged and the one doing the judging.Drawing from The Scarlet Letter, John shows:- why we never truly know someone else’s story- how shame distorts both identity and relationships- why condemnation corrodes th
51. Why We're Addicted to Outrage
What if the biggest problem isn’t “out there”… but is actually within?In this episode, John speaks directly to a familiar figure, “Uncle Billy," the person whose words are harsh, sarcastic, and condemning. Everyone knows an "Uncle Billy."But then he turns the question back on each one of us.Drawing from Ephesians 4 and the words of Jesus, John explores:- why condemnation often disgu
50. Dr. Condoleezza Rice on Navigating Political Division
We’re living in a culture of division. So how do you follow Jesus…when you deeply disagree with someone?In this conversation, John Ortberg sits down with Condoleezza Rice to explore how faith shapes the way we navigate politics, disagreement, and relationships.Together, they unpack:- Why it’s so hard to love your “opponents”- How to disagree without losing respect- The role of humility, curiosity,
49. Why Did Jesus Have to Die?
Why did Jesus have to die? What's the deal with sacrifice? Couldn’t God just… forgive?In this Good Friday teaching, Dr. John Ortberg walks through the deeper meaning of the cross.A story that reveals:We all need helpThe real problem isn’t “out there”… it’s in usAnd the power of evil is not defeated by force…but by self-giving loveOn the cross, Jesus didn’t just suffer.He absorbed evil without
48. 10 Things Jesus Never Did
Not all condemnation is loud.Some of it is… sneaky.In this episode, John Ortberg walks through 10 passive-aggressive habits that quietly damage relationships—things like eye rolls, silence, sarcasm, and “I’m fine.”The twist?Jesus never used them.He was direct. Honest. Clear.And still… full of love.Because you can avoid conflict…and still be full of condemnation.So today, pay attention:Where are yo
47. Speaking the Truth to Someone You Love (Nancy Ortberg)
Most people don’t struggle with telling the truth…they struggle with how they say it.In this episode, John and Nancy Ortberg unpack what it really means to:“Speak the truth in love.”Through two powerful real-life stories, they show how condemnation quietly grows:- behind people’s backs- inside groups- and in our own heartsAnd how it can be replaced with something better:- honesty without attack- t
46. What does the Bible mean by "scorn the shame?" | Hebrews 12:2
Shamed people… shame people.So what do you do with the shame you carry?In this episode, John Ortberg shows how Jesus faced shame—and refused to let it define him.From rejection and ridicule to the cross itself, Jesus endured it all…but scorned the shame.And that changes everything for us.Because shame says:“You’re not enough.”“You don’t belong.”“You are what went wrong.”But Jesus tells a different
45. Why We Do Things We Regret
How does Jesus change the world? Not through force. Not through control. Not by winning arguments.It’s through the cross.In this episode, John looks at a quote from Jesus during one of his most painful moments: “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” He draws people in not by power, but by self-giving love.Drawing from John 12, Luke 23, and the story of Jesus’ final hours, John show
44. Masterclass on How to Communicate Like Jesus
Why do so many conversations leave people feeling worse instead of better?In this episode, John walks through a powerful framework for communicating without condemnation, based on the work of Marshall Rosenberg:observe without evaluatingname your feelingsidentify your needsmake clear requestsThen he shows what it looks like in real life through one of Jesus’ most famous conversations — His encount
43. Why Cancelling People Doesn't Work
We live in a cancel culture.Accountability matters — but somewhere along the way, accountability became condemnation. Not just “that was wrong,” but “you are done.”In this episode, John explores:the rise of cancel culture and public shamingwhy shame and condemnation rarely lead to real changethe difference between calling people out and calling them inthe surprising place the word “cancel” shows u
42. You Might Be Reading the Bible Wrong...
What if you’ve been reading the Bible… the wrong way?In this episode, John shares three unexpected tools for giving up condemnation:lighten upbring your shadow (your own capacity for failure)read everything in the shadow of the cross Drawing on insights from Phillip Cary and the story of Jonah, John challenges a common habit: reading ourselves as the “good” characters while judging everyone else.I
41. Here's Exactly What Changed Paul’s Life
How does someone go from being full of condemnation… to writing, “There is now no condemnation”?In this episode, John explores the transformation of Paul — a man driven by zeal, judgment, and certainty — who encounters the risen Jesus and sees everything differently.Drawing on insights from What Saint Paul Really Said, John unpacks what Paul actually meant by “justification by faith” — and why it’
40. What If We’re Not Being Honest With God
What if our biggest barrier with God isn’t sin, but politeness?In this episode, John Ortberg explores a surprising truth from Scripture: God isn’t looking for polished prayers. He’s inviting honest relationship. Through the story of Job, we discover something shocking:Job rages. Questions God. Speaks words that feel almost dangerous. And yet—God says Job spoke what is right. Why? Because honesty d
39. What Jesus Meant by Cast the First Stone
We don’t throw stones anymore.Except… we do.Online.In conversations.With a look, a tone, a pause.In this episode, John Ortberg unpacks one of the most famous and unsettling teachings of Jesus:“Let the one without sin cast the first stone.”Through a powerful contrast between ancient scapegoating and the story of the woman in John 8, we see what Jesus is really doing:Not denying sin.Not ignoring tru
38. Giving Up the 'Last Word'
Criticism is inevitable.Condemnation is optional.In this episode, John Ortberg explores one of the most important distinctions for spiritual growth: how to receive criticism without absorbing condemnation.Drawing from the life of King David, we see a man who:Refused to take revenge when attackedIgnored false condemnationYet humbly received painful truth when it mattered mostThe Bible consistently
37. The Real Reason Why We Judge Others
Condemnation doesn’t start with what we say.It starts with how we see people.In this episode, John Ortberg explores the root of condemnation and a critical distinction that can change the way we live: observation vs. evaluation.Drawing from insights in Nonviolent Communication, John shows how easily our minds move from simply noticing behavior to assigning judgment, criticism, or contempt. And onc
36. How to Let Go of Your Anger
What do you do with the anger that keeps replaying in your mind?The conversations.The injustice.The words you wish you could say back.In this episode, John Ortberg looks at the remarkable life of Saint Patrick — a man who was kidnapped, enslaved for six years, and yet chose a path almost no one would expect.Instead of revenge, Patrick returned to the people who enslaved him with a message of love
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Cult of Conspiracy
Dispatches from Reality
The Conspiracy Files
TechnoSnobCast
The Young and Called Podcast .
Snoop Dogg - Flash Biográfico
Deadline: White House
Thrilling Threads - Conspiracy Theories, Strange Phenomena, True Crime, Unsolved Mysteries, etc!
The Daily Conspiracy Podcast
