A Podcast about the Bible Every two weeks, from two different countries, the two hosts of the Two Texts podcast pick two biblical texts to talk about. Dr John Andrews and Dr David Harvey share a mutual fascination with the Bible. Simple yet complex; ancient yet relevant; challenging yet comforting. But one thing that fascinates them consistently is that, like a kaleidoscope, no matter how many times they look at it there is something new, fresh and exciting to talk about. This podcast is des ...
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Australian rugby once had $40 million in the bank. Crowds over 100,000. TV audiences of 3 million. Today the Wallabies have sunk to their lowest world ranking ever. Off the field rugby is a "war zone" with a $20 million deficit last year alone. The Breakdown is a gripping podcast investigation from The Australian, exploring just how far "the game they play in heaven" has fallen - and why. Jessica Halloran and Claire Harvey have interviewed everyone from ex-PMs and billionaires to Wallabies l ...
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Teach Well and Trust the Spirit | Disruptive Presence 100
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. As we reach 100 episodes of our Acts series (which we planned as a short series for the summer of 2022!) our latest show delves into the intricate details of Paul’s missionary journey and the role of Apollos in Acts 18:18-28. We explore the themes of how the early church t…
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Relational Integrity and the Holy Spirit | Disruptive Presence 99
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David discuss Paul's trust in divine guidance throughout his ministry and travel. Even during a brief stay in Ephesus we see that Paul prefers a missionary "strategy" that combines relational integrity with a commitment to the work of the Holy Spirit rath…
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Priscilla and Aquila: Fellow Gospel Workers | Disruptive Presence 98
31:39
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David delve into the significance of Priscilla and Aquila as a ministry couple, their role as fellow workers with Paul, and the broader theme of gender equality and partnership in ministry. They also explore the idea of discipleship and ministry, the role…
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Vows, Commitments, and Grace | Disruptive Presence 97
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which David and John discuss Paul's vow in Acts 18. This episode is conversation that covers a range of topics, including their personal experiences, the journey of Paul in Acts 18, the significance of vows and commitments in the Christian faith, and the relationship be…
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Religion and State in Corinth | Disruptive Presence 96
37:51
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David picture Paul teaching with seemingly unwavering confidence, even as factions of Corinth unite against him. They delve into the dramatic trial before Gallio, the proconsul, whose disinterest and swift dismissal align with God's earlier promise to Pau…
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Comfortable Words in Corinth | Disruptive Presence 95
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David explore the divine vision that anchors Paul amidst opposition, and marvel at how the Holy Spirit's guidance offers both freedom and precise direction. There's a whisper of comfort that finds its way through the ages— "do not be afraid” — an enduring…
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Paul's Pivot in Corinth | Disruptive Presence 94
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David continue their exploration of the Apostle Paul's transition from Athens to Corinth, delving into the striking contrast between the intellectual debates in Athens and the grounded, everyday reality of tent-making in Corinth with Priscilla and Aquila.…
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Sacred versus Secular in Corinth | Disruptive Presence 93
36:20
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David peel back layers of history, strategy, and divine connection to uncover how Paul's tentmaking was more than mere survival—it was a bridge to hearts and a canvas for the Gospel. We examine the shift as Paul turns his attention to the Gentiles, a move…
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Paul, Poetry, and the Incarnation | Disruptive Presence 92
39:22
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David discuss the unexpected connections between the Apostle Paul's eloquent Mars Hill sermon and the rich world of Greek poetry. Imagine finding the divine in places you'd never think to look! The episode meanders through this fascinating theological lan…
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David peel back the layers of Paul's engagement with Greek thinkers, using their own religious and cultural touchstones to introduce Jesus and the Gospel. As we unravel the nuances of Paul's argument, we ponder his approach in adapting scriptural teaching…
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Babbling about Resurrection | Disruptive Presence 90
36:59
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David consider the insults or comments made about Paul by the Athenians. Ever wondered how a man branded a "babbler" by ancient intellectuals could spark a spiritual revolution? We consider the opposition that Paul encountered, dissecting the term "babble…
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Confronting Idolatry in Athens | Disruptive Presence 89
42:50
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David explore the Apostle Paul's reaction to his visit to Athens where he boldly confronted idolatry and introduced the early Christian gospel. Athens, with its pantheon of gods and penchant for debate, provided unusual ground for Paul's missionary zeal. …
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Resilient Voices | Disruptive Presence 88
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. John and David trace the steps of Paul and Silas, venturing through Thessalonica's tension-filled streets into the welcoming community of Berea. Our latest episode unravels the stark contrasts these early Christian evangelists encountered, from vehement opposition to heart…
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Either Riot or Revival | Disruptive Presence 87
40:41
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David wonder about how the early Christians navigated the tension between their revolutionary faith and the power of the Roman Empire? We traverse the ancient roads of Paul and Silas, unpacking their strategic mission through cities like Amphipolis, Apoll…
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Rights, Redemption, and Reconciliation | Disruptive Presence 86
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David consider Paul and Silas being unjustly locked away, only to turn the tables with a bold assertion of their rights upon release. They demand justice post-imprisonment, reminding us of the dignified stance of Nelson Mandela upon his own release. This …
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Salvation as a Divine Gift | Disruptive Presence 85
42:15
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David embark on an exploration of faith and transformation in our latest episode, continuing to focus on the gripping narrative of Acts 16, where the Holy Spirit’s influence in the early church is unmistakable. Together, we keep unravelling the story of P…
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From Dungeon to Devotion | Disruptive Presence 84
31:56
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which David and John unravel the story of a first-century jailer whose encounter with Paul and Silas turned despair into hope. We reflect on this profound event recorded in Acts 16, where economic turmoil and spiritual darkness are pierced by the radiant light of the Go…
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Midnight Prayers and Unfathomable Grace | Disruptive Presence 83
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which David and John recount the stirring tale of Paul and Silas's imprisonment, their midnight prayers, and an earthquake that spells not just physical liberation but a profound spiritual awakening. Our conversation ventures into the heart of their story in Acts 16, ex…
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Liberation and Disruption | Disruptive Presence 82
35:44
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David considered the ripple effects of spiritual awakening on societal norms and economic systems? Our latest episode on Acts 16 delves the stories of faith that disrupted commerce and challenged cultural customs. We start by contrasting the experiences o…
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Open Hearts in Philippi | Disruptive Presence 81
38:26
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David dissect Acts 16 with a focus on the transformative conversion of Lydia in Philippi. In this episode, we deep dive into the spiritual dynamics of the early missionary efforts, illustrating how the Spirit's redirection can turn apparent setbacks into …
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Divine Direction and Closed Doors | Disruptive Presence 80
35:52
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David discuss the unexpected paths that can unfold when divine intervention intersects with our personal journeys. Our latest episode delves into the profound partnership between Timothy and Paul and how it shaped the early Christian church. We reminisce …
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The Cost of Gospel Freedom | Disruptive Presence 79
36:32
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David navigate the aftermath of the Jerusalem Council in Acts 16, where Paul's trials in Lystra pave the way for Timothy's introduction. Be prepared to uncover the critical moments that steered the early church's expansion and how Timothy's backstory is i…
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Trials of Partnership and Grace | Disruptive Presence 78
30:54
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David discover the profound impact of conflict in the story of Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark from Acts 15, where a pivotal disagreement for the Early Christians sheds light on the delicate balance between personal values and collective mission. This episo…
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The Intricacies of Trust | Disruptive Presence 77
35:05
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David discuss the momentous decisions of the Council of Jerusalem—a pivotal point where Christianity embraced Gentiles, unfettered by Jewish customs. As we investigate this landmark event detailed in Acts 15, we reveal how the seeds of unity were sown and…
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The Door is Open | Disruptive presence 76
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David discuss the weight of Acts 15. It's difficult to overstate the importance of this chapter. Here we look at how the church structures its response to what were thoroughly challenging decisions for them. How do we include those we naturally want to ex…
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Don't Make It Difficult | Disruptive Presence 75
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David explore James's sermon in Acts 15. There's a beautiful notion that is present in James's instruction that the early Christians shouldn't make things difficult for people that want to follow Jesus. That probably is a message that we should keep comin…
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The God Who Bears Witness | Disruptive Presence 74
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David dive into Peter presentation of a vision of God who loves who we are not how we are categorised by the world. This is some of the genius of the early church and the Holy Spirit. The church breaks into a highly segregated world with a radical vision …
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Defining Salvation for the Church | Disruptive Presence 73
31:10
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David consider the weight of what goes on in Acts 15. A huge moment for the church. The decisions made in the verses of this chapter will shape the future of Christianity. How will the church navigate the inclusion, welcome and hospitality of the gentiles…
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Trusting Good Hands | Disruptive Presence 72
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38:21
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David consider how the early church engaged with ideas of leadership. It's often in a close reading of these text that we notice not models of church, but principles of how to be as the church and church leaders. Acts 14 is another chapter that keeps on g…
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Forward before Backward | Disruptive Presence 71
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David explore Paul's reaction to a (near) death experience. The early church offers us a perspective on difficulty that sit uncomfortably for us in the modern context. But perhaps we should pay a little bit of attention to it? Episode 127 of the Two Texts…
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Adaptations and Contextualizations | Disruptive Presence 70
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David talk about navigating the Gospel in different situations. Is there a difference between adapting the Gospel and contextualizing it? And perhaps most importantly, can we tell the difference? Episode 126 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence …
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They Were Gospelling | Disruptive Presence 69
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David turn their attention to Acts chapter 14. The story continues to unfold, and as you may imagine, there's still lots and lots to talk about. And yes, we know, "gospelling" isn't really a word! Episode 125 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence…
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Rejecting Rejection | Disruptive Presence 68
34:59
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David marvel at how Paul responds to rejection. the difficulty of navigating rejection is something most of struggle with. Hidden within chapter 13 of Acts is some insight in to how Paul navigates this. Episode 124 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Pr…
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Readiness and Responsiveness | Disruptive Presence 67
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David discuss how we respond to a teaching like Paul's in Acts 13. As always there's a world beneath the text that gives us pause to think about more than just what's happening in the narrative. Episode 123 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 6…
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The Exceedingly Abundantly is Jesus | Disruptive Presence 66
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David explore the centrality of Jesus to Paul's sermon and thought. How Paul frames and engages with his ideas help us make some sense of what he means in his famous prayer in Ephesians. Episode 122 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 66 If you…
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Paul Binges Bible | Disruptive Presence 65
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David consider how Paul's "impromptu" sermon comes together. We know there's lots to debate about Paul, but we definitively know he loved the text of Scripture. When asked to speak without warning, guess what leaks out of him...the sacred text! Episode 12…
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Synagogue on the Sabbath | Disruptive Presence 64
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David consider the gathering traditions of Paul and Barnabas. Gathering in the synagogue space is the long tradition of Jesus followers tracing back through the ways of Jesus himself and further still. We consider what that could mean for us today. Episod…
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John (Mark) Departs | Disruptive Presence 63
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David discuss how relationships have always been a point of tension for the church. Paul and Barnabas's missionary group is stretched and reshaped as friends and family move on from the work they are doing. Episode 119 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptiv…
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A Magician and the Hand of the Lord | Disruptive Presence 62
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David observe Paul and Barnabas's encounter with a magician. The new missionary group head out into their gospel work, but they being to encounter some opposition. Episode 119 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 62 If you want to get in touch a…
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Guided by the Spirit | Disruptive Presence 61
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David consider how the Spirit guides the church. The language of the Spirit is easily used, but does contemporary usage reflect what we saw happen amongst the early Christians? Continuing in Acts 13, we explore some thoughts about this. Episode 118 of the…
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Sent by the Spirit | Disruptive Presence 60
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. We arrive at our 60th episode on Acts! True to form in this series we don't get through as much in this episode as we imagined we would! Right at the start of Acts 13, there's this beautiful little sequence about the Holy Spirit in Antioch... ...and we loved it! Episode 11…
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What have we seen so far? | Disruptive Presence 59
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. We're back after our annual summer break and excited to talk to you about Acts. We did think, however, that maybe a brief recap on where we've been might be helpful - we've been in Acts for over a year now, so there's quite a lot of content been laid down here. Normal pace…
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Diversity in Antioch | Disruptive Presence 58
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In our last episode before our August "Technology Sabbatical" John and David note, once again, that the Holy Spirit likes it when everyone isn't the same. The diversity of the Spirit's work is something we've noted already in this series, but look once again how Luke think…
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David consider how easily we are deluded by power. Herod thinks he has power, the people think he has power, but the Holy Spirit knows differently. Continuing a theme in Acts, we see that there are still lessons for us to learn today about what power real…
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Unexpected Answered Prayers | Disruptive Presence 56
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David wonder if we would respond any differently than the Acts Church. Many of us have prayed for something. but I wonder how many of us really expect our prayers to be answered. How would you react if the person in prison your were praying for suddenly t…
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Praying Peter out of Prison | Disruptive Presence 55
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David enjoy a brilliant escape story. This is one of those stories in Acts that you've likely heard of. If you haven't then expect mystery, humour, and God working in surprising ways. Peter's escape story should probably be one of your favourite Acts mome…
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Herod, James, and Peter | Disruptive Presence 54
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David talk about another problematic Herod in the NT. There's a reason that you don't think favourably of the name "Herod". So many kings called Herod caused problems in the New Testament period. The Acts text from this episode is no different. Episode 11…
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Remember the Poor | Disruptive Presence 53
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David are challenged by the church's response to hardship and difficulty. This group of Christians continually surprise us by showing that the impact of the Holy Spirit leaked into the practicalities of everyday life. Episode 110 of the Two Texts Podcast …
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They Sent Barnabas | Disruptive Presence 52
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David celebrate the return of one of their favourite characters. Everyone needs a Barnabas in their lives. For the Acts church he always pops up right when he was needed. Episode 109 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 52 If you want to get in …
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The Hand of the Lord | Disruptive Presence 51
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Drop us a text message to say hi and let us know what you think of the show. In which John and David discuss how the difficult times for the church in Acts don't lead to bad results. Despite the oppression and persecution that is being applied to the church, people were still choosing to follow Jesus. Why? Because the Hand of the Lord was with them…
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