Ep 61 | Holy in Christ: Growing in Our Set-Apart Identity (Romans 12:1-2)

In this episode of A Closer Look, Jason Smith is joined by elder and Pastor of Congregational Care, John Walters, to reflect on Sunday’s Advent sermon in the series Why Jesus Came. John shares his journey into ministry, his heart for pastoral care, and the central theme of his message: Jesus came to deliver us from darkness. Together, they explore what it means to see the light, believe in the light, and walk in the light—and how these truths shape the daily life of the believer. The conversation addresses common struggles Christians face, including suffering, chronic illness, discouragement, and seasons of darkness, while offering biblical encouragement and hope rooted in Christ. This episode also highlights the richness of the Gospel of John, the unity of Scripture, and the beauty of Christ as the fulfillment of God’s redemptive story.

16 Dec 11min

In this Advent kickoff episode, Jason Smith sits down with John Wojnicki to unpack the first message in our series, Why Jesus Came. John preached on Christ’s purpose “to do the Father’s will,” leading to a rich discussion about obedience, adoption, and what it means to live faithfully between Jesus’ first and second comings. Together they explore how obedience shapes our joy, why God’s commands bring freedom rather than restriction, and how trusting the Father produces a “no problem” heart. They also reflect on family worship, suffering, hope, and a few fun Thanksgiving favorites.

3 Dec 14min

In this episode, Pastors Jason Smith and Paul Behneman dive deeper into what it truly means to be new in Christ. Building on Paul’s sermon from Romans 6:1–4, they discuss the believer’s identity as a saint rather than a sinner, the daily struggle against sin, and how God’s Word renews our minds. From confronting imposter syndrome to understanding sanctification and holiness, this conversation reminds us that through Christ, we are no longer defined by our sin but by our Savior.

12 Nov 14min

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastor Jason Smith sits down with Pastor Paul Behneman to reflect on Paul’s message from Ephesians 1:3–14, “Blessed in Christ.” Together they discuss what it means to be “in Christ”—that what is true of Christ is true of believers spiritually—and how that reality changes how we live each day. Paul shares about God’s sovereignty in the midst of fear, how our failures can’t derail His purposes, and why knowing our identity in Christ brings freedom and assurance. They also talk about how worship and preaching often align under God’s providence and preview next week’s sermon, “New in Christ,” from 2 Corinthians 5:17.

4 Nov 17min

In this episode of A Closer Look, Pastor Jason Smith and Pastor Paul Behnamen reflect on Jason’s recent series through Luke 20 and how God has worked through both the text and Jason’s ongoing physical suffering. They discuss what it means to be “worthy” of the resurrection, the danger of seeking man’s approval, and how even good desires can distract from our ultimate treasure—Christ Himself. The conversation ends with encouragement to pursue faith in community and share the beauty of God’s Word with others.

28 Okt 19min

In this episode of A Closer Look, Jason Smith and Paul Behnamen discuss Luke 20:9–26 — exploring what it means to build your life on Jesus as the cornerstone, how to worship God daily beyond Sunday mornings, and how believers can faithfully engage the world while reflecting God’s image. They also talk candidly about motives, relationships, and living for God’s kingdom instead of our own.

21 Okt 18min

Pastors Jason Smith and Paul Behneman explore Luke 20:1-8, examining Jesus' response to questions about authority, the role of John the Baptist, and what it means to live under Christ's authority. They discuss freedom in Christ versus self-centered living, practical ways to share the gospel, and how to prioritize loving God above all relationships in daily life.

6 Okt 19min