Nuts & Voeltz of the Bible w/ Pastor Travis Voeltz
Podcast
Growing Together
November 1, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Acts 4:32–35
In this episode, Pastor Travis delves into the theme of generosity and communal living as depicted in Acts 4:32-35. The episode opens with a parable about a farmer who shares his best wheat seeds with his neighbors, illustrating the benefits of communal effort and improvement. Reflecting on personal experiences of childhood reluctance to share, the speaker draws a parallel to modern attitudes towards sharing resources within the church community. The early Christians' practice of sharing everything, ensuring that no one was in need, is highlighted as a powerful example of spiritual unity and community growth. The episode critiques the contrast between early Christian generosity and today's often individualistic approach, suggesting that true contentment and fulfillment come from sharing and living as God calls us to. Travis concludes by encouraging listeners to embrace a lifestyle of cheerful giving, emphasizing that what we do with our resources can have a lasting impact far beyond our earthly possessions. Through this message, listeners are reminded to live lives marked by generosity and community, reflecting God's grace to others.
Living Right-Side Up in an Upside-Down World
October 28, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Mark 10:35–45
Embracing a life of service as Jesus taught.
Unstoppable Witness
October 25, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Acts 3:1–11, Acts 4:13–20
Power to be a witness to what God does in our life.
Running the Race of Faith
October 13, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • 1 Peter 1:13–25
In this podcast episode, we delve into the powerful message of 1 Peter 1:13-25, exploring how believers are called to live holy lives amidst challenges. We discuss the importance of having our minds ready for action, placing our hope in Jesus Christ, and not conforming to past desires. By drawing parallels with running a race, we highlight the necessity of preparation, self-discipline, and active faith to follow God's calling. We emphasize love and obedience as crucial aspects of the Christian journey, reflecting on Jesus' ultimate sacrifice. The episode encourages listeners to nurture their spiritual lives through God's enduring word, reminding them that while our human existence is fleeting, God's word endures forever. Join us as we uncover how to live victoriously, love deeply, and run the race of life with purpose and grace.
Unshakeable Hope
October 10, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • 1 Peter 1:3–9
In this episode, Pastor Travis explores the powerful theme of hope as grounded in the Christian faith, drawn from 1 Peter 1:3-9. Travis reflects on personal experiences of hope and disappointment, such as the longstanding sports fan’s hope for a championship win, to illustrate how hope is a fundamental human need often misplaced in transient pursuits. Travis further delves into the unshakeable hope found in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that this hope is permanent and rooted in a divine inheritance that cannot be corrupted or stolen. Through trials and life's challenges, Travis' message encourages believers to view hardships as refining their faith, described as more valuable than gold. Listeners are reminded of the ultimate joy and reward that comes with steadfast faith, urging them to hold onto hope even when the world seeks to diminish it. The episode offers reassurance that genuine faith and the hope it engenders will ultimately reveal glory and honor when Christ returns.
Walking the Narrow Road
September 17, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Mark 8:27–38
In this episode of the "Nuts and Voeltz of the Bible," Pastor Travis delves into the powerful teachings of Jesus found in Mark 8:27-38. Join us as we explore the deep significance of Jesus' question to his disciples, "Who do you say that I am?" and Peter's profound declaration, "You are the Christ." We’ll unpack why Jesus asked his disciples to remain silent about his identity and the vital lesson of embracing suffering and sacrifice on the narrow road to the promised land.
We also share personal anecdotes and modern-day examples, like the inspiring story of a high school senior named Emma, which highlight the relevance of Jesus' teachings in our lives today. Learn how the temptation of the "wide road"—full of comfort and societal approval—contrasts with the true peace and purpose found on the "narrow road" of discipleship.
Discover how to apply these timeless lessons to your own spiritual journey and be encouraged to stand firm in your faith, even when it's not popular or easy. Don't miss this episode that challenges us to deny ourselves, take up our crosses, and truly follow Jesus.
Tune in for an enriching discussion that speaks to both the head and heart, offering practical insights to help you live out your faith in an authentic and impactful way.
Key Topics:
- Understanding Jesus' identity and mission
- The significance of silence and suffering in discipleship
- Choosing the narrow road over the wide, free-wheeling path
- Modern-day examples of standing firm in faith
- Encouragement to embrace the true purpose in following Jesus
Remember to share this episode with friends and family looking for spiritual encouragement and direction. Blessings.
Why Church?
September 8, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Acts 2:42, Hebrews 13:8, 1 Peter 3:15, Acts 2:38, John 3:16
Chapter 1: The Early Church's Devotion
0:00 - 3:00
The early disciples were devoted to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers.
Chapter 2: Challenges to Church Attendance
3:00 - 6:00
Various reasons why people don't attend church are explored, including past negative experiences and the desire for individual spirituality.
Chapter 3: The Importance of Apostolic Teaching
6:00 - 9:00
The apostolic teaching is crucial for understanding and living out the Christian faith.
Chapter 4: The Core of Christian Teaching
9:00 - 12:00
The core of Christian teaching includes God's creation, man's fall, and salvation through Jesus Christ.
Chapter 5: The Call to Embrace Church and Its Teachings
12:00 - 15:00
The sermon concludes with a call to embrace church attendance and its teachings for spiritual growth and eternal preparation.
#ApostlesTeaching
#EarlyChurch
#HolySpirit
#Fellowship
#BreakingOfBread
#Prayer
#JohnWesley
#MeansOfGrace
#ChurchAttendance
#Salvation
#Community
#JesusChrist
#Scripture
#Repentance
#Baptism
#GospelMessage
#SinAndJudgment
#GodsForgiveness
#NewLifeInChrist
#Eternity
Beware the Calm Waters: Navigating Life's Hidden Dangers
Pastor Travis Voeltz • Proverbs 14:12, 1 Corinthians 10:12, James 1:15, 1 Timothy 4:7
In today's exploration, we delve into the deceptive nature of appearances and how they relate to our spiritual journey. Just as Bolton Ammy's seemingly calm waters hide deadly dangers, we're reminded of life's hidden pitfalls. This parallels Jesus' warnings about false prophets who appear as sheep but are inwardly ravenous wolves (Matthew 7:15). We're encouraged to cultivate awareness of our personal weaknesses, recognizing how small compromises can snowball into significant spiritual challenges. This echoes Paul's advice to be vigilant against temptation (1 Corinthians 10:12-13). By staying engaged in good habits like scripture reading, prayer, and community, we build a strong foundation against negative influences. Let's reflect on how we can apply this wisdom to discern and navigate the unseen dangers in our own lives, growing stronger in our faith journey.
Chapter 1: Deceptive Appearances and Life's Challenges
0:00 - 1:41
Exploring how seemingly harmless situations can hide serious dangers, both in nature and in life.
Chapter 2: The Snowball Effect of Unchecked Behaviors
1:41 - 3:07
Examining how small, unchecked behaviors can escalate into bigger issues in our lives.
Chapter 3: Staying Engaged and Maintaining Healthy Habits
3:07 - 5:46
Exploring the importance of staying active and engaged to avoid temptation and maintain good habits.
Chapter 4: Accountability and New Beginnings
5:46 - 6:48
Discussing the role of accountability and advice for those seeking a fresh start.
#SpiritualGrowth
#Temptation
#PersonalWeaknesses
#MoralChallenges
#Vigilance
#SnowballEffect
#Scripture
#Prayer
#Faith
#Accountability
#Repentance
#GoodHabits
#PurposeDrivenLife
#SpiritualWarfare
#Idleness
#CommunitySupport
#SelfAwareness
#DailyDevotions
#SpiritualJourney
#BiblicalWisdom
Consequences and Redemption
August 20, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • 2 Samuel 18:5–9, 2 Samuel 18:15, 2 Samuel 18:31–33
In this episode, we delve into a powerful sermon based on 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, exploring the profound consequences of our actions and the unrelenting grace of God. Through a personal anecdote from the pastor's own high school years, we see how mistakes and decisions, big or small, shape our lives and teach us invaluable lessons. The sermon draws parallels between the pastor's experience and the heavy consequences faced by King David and his family, particularly focusing on the tumultuous relationship with his son Absalom.
The pastor reflects on the pivotal moments in David's reign, marked by personal failings and divine judgment, and emphasizes that while God's grace is infinite, the principle of reaping what we sow remains true. Despite the weight of our sins, the message offers hope through the redemptive story of David, which ultimately leads to the lineage of Jesus Christ.
Listeners are encouraged to ponder their own lives, mend broken relationships, and embrace the redemption offered through Jesus. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that no matter our past, God’s love and forgiveness are always within reach. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of sin, consequence, and the overarching grace of God.
Tune in to gain deeper insights into how biblical narratives relate to our daily lives and find solace in the promise of redemption and forgiveness through Christ. Amen.
Lessons from Ascension
Pastor Travis Voeltz • 2 Samuel 5:1–5, 2 Samuel 5:9–10
In this powerful message, we explore the journey of faith through the lens of King David's ascension to the throne at age 30. The story invites us to reflect on our own lives at that pivotal age and compare them to David's readiness for leadership. We're challenged to consider how God's timing often differs from our own expectations. The speaker's personal struggles at 30 highlight the common human experience of feeling unprepared for life's responsibilities. Yet, we're reminded that God's plan unfolds over time, much like David's 15-year journey from anointing to kingship. This message encourages us to cultivate patience and unwavering faith, even in the face of trials, as we trust in God's perfect timing for our lives.
Chapter 1: The Contrast of Life at 30
0:00 - 1:42
Comparison between David's life at 30 and personal experiences, highlighting the importance of readiness for life's challenges.
Chapter 2: David's Anointing and Qualifications
1:42 - 4:22
Examination of David's anointing as king and the qualifications that led to his selection.
Chapter 3: God's Timing and David's Development
4:22 - 9:03
Discussion on why God chose to make David king at 30 and the importance of patience in faith.
Chapter 4: Learning from David and Jesus
9:03 - 13:01
Reflection on David's fall and Jesus' example of patience, encouraging faith during difficult times.
Chapter 5: Cultivating Patience and Faith
13:01 - 16:06
Practical advice on developing patience and faith in God's plan, with a call to trust in His timing.
#Faith
#Patience
#GodsTiming
#DavidAndGoliath
#KingDavid
#Anointing
#JesusChrist
#SpiritualGrowth
#TrustInGod
#LifeChallenges
#DivinePlan
#Perseverance
#BiblicalWisdom
#SpiritualJourney
#GodsPurpose
#ChristianLiving
#FaithfulWaiting
#CharacterDevelopment
#DivineTiming
#SpiritualMaturity
Enjoyment in Life
May 22, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Ecclesiastes 5:16–20
Are you looking for enjoyment in life? The answers may just be in Ecclesiastes.
Pastor Travis serves the First United Methodist Church in Jamestown, North Dakota. He has a masters in Bible and theology.
The Transformative Power of Saying 'Yes': From Pro Wrestling to the Pulpit
March 24, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Mark 11:1–11
Title:
The Transformative Power of Saying 'Yes': From Pro Wrestling to the Pulpit
Key Points:
- A simple "yes" can significantly alter the trajectory of one's life, leading to unexpected and transformative paths.
- The speaker's personal story transitioned from an aspiring pro wrestler to becoming a pastor, initiated by agreeing to play Samson in a Vacation Bible School.
- The sermon examines the cultural and biblical significance of saying "yes," including references to Palm Sunday and Jesus' request for a donkey, which fulfilled Old Testament prophecies.
- It probes the theological concept of "the Lord needs," pondering the implications of God's requests despite God lacking nothing.
- The sermon encourages listeners to be receptive to God's call and to consider what they might release for His use, underscoring the power of positive responses to divine guidance.
Stories:
- The speaker recounts their own series of affirmative responses, beginning with playing Samson and leading to a pastoral vocation.
- A biblical narrative about the disciples saying "yes" to Jesus' request for a donkey, illustrating obedience to divine requests and the fulfillment of prophecy.
Scripture References:
- Palm Sunday's account in the Gospels, where Jesus asks for a donkey, signifying the peaceful arrival of a king and fulfilling the prophecy from Zechariah.
- Psalm 50, which asserts God's ownership over all creation, raising the question of what it means for the Lord to "need" something.
Summary of Sermon:
The sermon delves into the transformative power of affirmative responses, particularly in the context of faith and alignment with God's purpose. It draws connections between popular culture, personal narrative, and biblical events to illustrate the profound impact of saying "yes" to God's call. By examining the scriptural account of Palm Sunday and the paradox of a God who lacks nothing yet asks of us, the sermon invites listeners to embrace opportunities for divine service and consider the role of obedience and submission in their own lives. Through humor and personal reflection, the message inspires a contemplative and actionable response to the nudges of Jesus in everyday life.
Part 4 of 4, Darin's Journey
February 28, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz • Matthew 11:28–30
Darin's journey was altered because of God. This is part 4 of 4: Darin's journey.
If you have a testimony to share, you may contact Pastor Travis at Jamestown First United Methodist Church in Jamestown, ND. To God be the glory.
#JmstFUMC #Jesus #God
Part 3, Darin's Journey
February 21, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz
Obstacles mount as Darin tries to make changes in his life. This is part 3 of Darin's story. The previous two parts are available in the archives.
#JmstFUMC #Jesus #God
Part 2, Darin's Journey
February 14, 2024 • Pastor Travis Voeltz
Darin was at a crossroads. Alcohol was running his life, and a change had to happen. This is part 2 of Darin's journey.
Part 1 of Darin's story is available in the archives.
Darin is a member of the Jamestown United Methodist Church of which Pastor Travis is the Pastor of Discipleship.
#JmstFUMC #Jesus #God
