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Author: thad

Ask the Pastors West Hills Church Podcast

Ask the Pastors S6 E2: “How do we make our church resolutions more tangible? (part 2)”

2025-01-23

Our pastors discuss practical ways for the congregation to become more “mission-hearted” and “gospel-focused” as the church undergoes a major building expansion project. The pastors provided several specific examples of local and international mission opportunities the church is involved in or considering, and encouraged the congregation to get involved through prayer, volunteering, and financial support. [05:47] They also emphasized the importance of maintaining the church’s gospel focus and community during the transition period.

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Ask the Pastors Podcast at West Hills Church

Ask the Pastors S5 E14: “Why don’t we give like the Early Church?”

2024-12-12

The pastors discussed the topic of giving and caring for one another in the church, particularly in comparison to the early church described in the Book of Acts and writings of Justin Martyr. [01:09] They explored how the context and needs of the modern church differ from the early church, and how West Hills Church currently seeks to provide for the physical needs of its members through ministries like the Mercy Ministry. [17:39] The pastors also discussed the challenges of balancing compassion with discernment, and the importance of maintaining a distinction between members and non-members when providing assistance. [29:52]

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Ask the Pastors Podcast at West Hills Church

Ask the Pastors S5 E13: “Why doesn’t the Bible condemn polygamy?”

2024-12-05

The pastors discuss how the Old Testament narratives describe instances of polygamy, but do not necessarily endorse it. They explain that the Bible is descriptive rather than prescriptive on this issue. The pastors also highlight how polygamy is ultimately portrayed negatively in the Bible and how the New Testament upholds monogamous marriage as the ideal.

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Ask the Pastors Podcast at West Hills Church

Ask the Pastors S5 E11: “What is a Biblical stance on IVF?”

2024-11-14

The pastors discuss the biblical and ethical considerations around in vitro fertilization (IVF). They acknowledge the complexity of the issue, noting that while the discarding of unused embryos is clearly unethical, the use of IVF to conceive children is a more nuanced topic. The pastors explore various perspectives, including the view that IVF can be a way to overcome infertility, which is seen as a result of the fall, as well as the concern that IVF involves “playing God” and the creation of human life outside of the natural process. They also discuss the practical and financial challenges of IVF, as well as the potential health risks to the mother and child. Overall, the pastors conclude that while they personally cannot endorse IVF due to the theological and ethical concerns, they respect that other Christians may have different convictions on the matter.

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Ask the Pastors Podcast at West Hills Church

Ask the Pastors S5 E10: “Can a person still be saved if they add to Christ’s work of salvation?”

2024-11-07

The into this conversation where the pastors discuss a question submitted by an anonymous person. The main topics discussed include:

  • The issue of denominations that preach “Jesus plus something” as necessary for salvation, rather than salvation through Jesus alone.

  • The biblical perspective on justification by faith alone versus the addition of works or other requirements for salvation.

  • How to address people who are struggling with assurance of salvation due to a focus on their own works or insufficiency rather than the sufficiency of Christ.

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Ask the Pastors Podcast at West Hills Church

Ask the Pastors S5 E9: “What makes denominations different?”

2024-10-31

The pastors discussed the key differences between various Christian denominations, focusing on Presbyterians, Baptists, Evangelical Free (EFCA), and non-denominational churches. They provided an overview of the history, beliefs, and practices that distinguish these groups, highlighting areas of overlap and divergence.

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