103 | What Does "Turning The Other Cheek" Really Mean As a Christian?

Send us a textToday we’re talking about the Forrest Frank controversy, Dove Awards drama, and why the Church often ends up fighting the wrong battles.In a culture that thrives on outrage and division, we’re looking at what the Bible actually says about unity, offense, and spiritual maturity.Let’s talk about how to stop being “Christian TMZ” and start being the Church Jesus called us to be.Timestamps00:00 – Intro + Why this conversation matters01:00 – Forrest Frank & the Dove Awards controversy06:00 – Why Christians get caught up in drama09:20 – What the early Church actually focused on (Acts 2:44)14:48 – The danger of being easily offended (Proverbs 19:11)19:27 – Sin issue vs. style issue — why this matters25:05 – Closing encouragement & call to unity (Colossians 3:13)Sign up for Theos University - The best way to learn theologyhttps://www.theosu.ca/?via=Spencernak___________________________Give a one-time donation to the Podcasthttps://spencernakamura.com/donation__________________________Download my FREE 5-day Devotional helping you understand the importance of The Word of Godhttps://mailchi.mp/d3bd65882c1a/5-day-devotional

Send us a textIn this episode, Spencer unpacks why spiritual discipline is not just a nice idea — it’s a battle strategy. Drawing from Ephesians 6 and real-life stories, he explains how spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, fasting, solitude, and self-awareness become the armor that protects you from the enemy’s attacks. If your faith feels stagnant or fragile, this episode will give you the framework to build a faith that can actually withstand the fight.Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome + Why this episode matters01:04 – Why we resist spiritual discipline02:01 – Ephesians 6 and putting on the full armor of God03:23 – Achilles heel analogy: your weak point matters07:14 – Strength to fight through discipline08:07 – Intimacy with God: the second purpose of discipline11:32 – Tension vs. balance in spiritual life16:00 – Discipline 1: Bible study20:22 – Discipline 2: Prayer25:38 – Discipline 3: Solitude30:47 – Discipline 4: Fasting36:04 – Spiritual maturity doesn’t happen by accident37:41 – Final encouragement + call to actionSign up for Theos University - The best way to learn theologyhttps://www.theosu.ca/?via=Spencernak___________________________Give a one-time donation to the Podcasthttps://spencernakamura.com/donation__________________________Download my FREE 5-day Devotional helping you understand the importance of The Word of Godhttps://mailchi.mp/d3bd65882c1a/5-day-devotional

Send us a textIn this episode of The Future Is Now Podcast, Spencer Nakamura unpacks the chaos surrounding Elon Musk’s “Cancel Netflix” movement—and asks the question few believers are willing to: Are we thinking biblically, or just emotionally?Spencer explores the cycle of outrage culture, the difference between canceling vs. testing, and why followers of Jesus must develop spiritual discernment in an age of manipulation.Later in the show, Spencer reacts to William Matthews’ deconstruction story (former Bethel worship leader) and a viral “Subway Takes” video where a non-believer exposes the Church’s lack of urgency about evangelism.This isn’t about outrage—it’s about maturity, urgency, and truth.Learn how to test the spirits (1 John 4:1), train your discernment (Hebrews 5:13-14), and lead culture instead of following it.Timestamps00:00 – Intro + Elon Musk & Netflix summary02:00 – Why Christians resonate with Elon’s stances04:00 – Cancel culture vs. biblical conviction07:00 – The cycle of public outrage and hypocrisy09:00 – Elon’s business ties and money motives10:30 – Hebrews 5 and the call to discernment13:00 – How immature believers misuse “discernment”16:00 – Training discernment through God’s Word18:00 – Panic vs. peace in a chaotic culture22:00 – TikTok segment: William Matthews & the deconstruction trap29:00 – Subway Takes video + urgency in evangelism32:00 – Final challenge + call to biblical maturitySign up for Theos University - The best way to learn theologyhttps://www.theosu.ca/?via=Spencernak___________________________Give a one-time donation to the Podcasthttps://spencernakamura.com/donation__________________________Download my FREE 5-day Devotional helping you understand the importance of The Word of Godhttps://mailchi.mp/d3bd65882c1a/5-day-devotional

Send us a textIn this episode, Spencer uncovers the blind spots that derail believers, pastors, and leaders alike. From the dangers of ignoring correction, to confusing success with faithfulness, to redefining biblical priorities in marriage and ministry—this is a raw conversation you can’t afford to miss.We’ll break down recent church scandals, talk about why flattery is dangerous insulation, explore the biblical order of family and ministry, and even react to viral TikToks that reveal cultural blind spots about identity, marriage, and victim mentality.⸻Timestamps1:00 – Church scandals, Robert Morris, and the call to longevity3:20 – Tesla blind spot analogy: Why leaders need accountability6:20 – Blind Spot #1: Refusing correction and feedback9:40 – Echo chambers, flattery, and the danger of insulation12:00 – Rehoboam’s failure in 1 Kings 1216:00 – Blind Spot #2: Confusing success with health & faithfulness18:45 – God’s Kingdom priorities: Spouse → Kids → Ministry23:30 – The “God complex” of overworking in ministry26:50 – TikTok Rot segment: Serena Williams & cotton controversy32:30 – Marriage roles, last names, and biblical headship36:50 – Closing: Speaking truth in a world full of lies

Send us a textThis episode unpacks one of the most misunderstood verses in Scripture: Jesus’ command to “turn the other cheek” (Matthew 5:38–42). Spencer Nakamura explores what Jesus really meant, the Old Testament context of “eye for an eye,” and why this teaching doesn’t call believers to be passive or tolerate abuse. With commentary on the Charlie Kirk memorial, Romans 12 vs. Romans 13, and five common myths about turning the other cheek, this episode clarifies the difference between a believer’s mandate to forgive and the government’s role to uphold justice. If you’ve ever wondered whether Christians should defend themselves, confront sin, or reconcile after forgiveness, this episode will give you clarity, biblical depth, and practical application.10 Timestamps00:00 – Introduction: Why “turn the other cheek” is so often misunderstood02:30 – The danger of twisted interpretations online05:00 – Matthew 5 explained: insult vs. retaliation07:15 – Old Testament context: the ceiling of justice (Exodus & Leviticus)10:00 – What Jesus was correcting in the Pharisees’ hearts11:30 – Insults vs. safety: why “cheek” ≠ life-threatening violence14:30 – Lessons from the Charlie Kirk memorial: forgiveness vs. justice18:00 – Romans 12 vs. Romans 13: believer vs. government roles24:00 – Myths about turning the other cheek (abuse, pacifism, ignoring sin)30:00 – Forgiveness vs. reconciliation: boundaries and wisdomSign up for Theos University - The best way to learn theologyhttps://www.theosu.ca/?via=Spencernak___________________________Give a one-time donation to the Podcasthttps://spencernakamura.com/donation__________________________Download my FREE 5-day Devotional helping you understand the importance of The Word of Godhttps://mailchi.mp/d3bd65882c1a/5-day-devotional

Send us a textThis episode of The Future Is Now dives into the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk and why I believe he should be remembered as a modern-day martyr. We explore the historic parallels between John the Baptist, the early church under Rome, and the dangerous patterns of persecution rising today.From Ephesians 6 and the armor of God to the cult of Artemis in Ephesus, I break down how culture-driven idolatry in the first century mirrors what we face in America right now. Persecution doesn’t start with violence—it starts with mockery, marginalization, and silence.Scriptures covered: Matthew 14, Philippians 1:12–18, Proverbs 29:18, Ephesians 6.If this episode challenges you, share it with someone who needs to hear truth today. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the movement of Christians standing boldly in these times.Timestamps / Chapters0:00 – The assassination of Charlie Kirk3:05 – Is he a modern-day martyr? (John the Baptist parallels)7:48 – Early church persecution → from mockery to violence12:30 – Ephesians 6 and the cult of Artemis in Ephesus17:15 – Modern patterns of persecution in our culture22:10 – A call to courage: standing firm today

Send us a textIs everyone called to go on a mission trip? In this episode, we break down the true meaning of missions, the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19), and whether every Christian is required to travel to fulfill God’s calling. We also address misconceptions about missions work, the role of the local church, and why obedience looks different for each believer.Some say, “Everyone should go on a mission trip.” But is that biblically accurate? We discuss the difference between personal calling and general commands, challenge traditional views, and bring clarity to an often misunderstood topic.👉 Should YOU go on a mission trip? Listen and decide for yourself.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 – Introduction: The Viral Missions Debate02:10 – What Is a Mission Trip, Really?05:45 – Is Every Christian Called to Missions?09:30 – The Role of the Local Church in Matthew 28:1912:15 – Paul & Barnabas vs. Timothy & James: Different Callings16:40 – Why “Always” and “Never” Statements About God Can Be Misleading20:05 – The Problem with Elevating Missionaries Over Local Pastors24:30 – Should You Feel Guilty for Not Wanting to Go?28:10 – Responding to the “Girls Gone Bible” Clip31:55 – Final Thoughts: How to Obey God in YOUR CallingSign up for Theos University - The best way to learn theologyhttps://www.theosu.ca/?via=Spencernak___________________________Become a Partner of the Ministryhttps://spencernakamura.com/partner__________________________Give a one-time donation to the Ministryhttps://spencernakamura.com/donation__________________________Download my FREE 5-day Devotional helping you understand the importance of The Word of Godhttps://mailchi.mp/d3bd65882c1a/5-day-devotional__________________________

Send us a textIn this episode of The Future Is Now Podcast, we dive into The Art of Waiting—learning how to trust God in seasons of uncertainty. Based on Isaiah 40, this message will challenge you to shift your perspective, embrace the waiting, and prepare for what God is developing in you.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction & Podcast Update01:32 – Reading Isaiah 40:28-3103:14 – Context: Why Israel Was Waiting06:10 – Israel’s Sins That Led to Exile08:06 – How This Applies to Us Today13:03 – What It Means to Wait on God15:16 – Waiting Is Not Passive—It’s Active19:02 – How Perspective Shapes Your Waiting24:07 – Avoiding Idleness in the Waiting Season29:17 – Are You Ready for What You’re Praying For?33:38 – Closing Prayer & Final EncouragementSign up for Theos University - The best way to learn theologyhttps://www.theosu.ca/?via=Spencernak___________________________Become a Partner of the Ministryhttps://spencernakamura.com/partner__________________________Give a one-time donation to the Ministryhttps://spencernakamura.com/donation__________________________Download my FREE 5-day Devotional helping you understand the importance of The Word of Godhttps://mailchi.mp/d3bd65882c1a/5-day...

Send us a textIn this message, we explore The Jesus Equation—the powerful truth that Jesus often starts with scarcity to reveal His abundance. Before God adds to your life, He may subtract, not to punish, but to build dependence. Through the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 (John 6:1–13), we learn how surrendering our fragments can lead to overflowing miracles.Timestamps:00:00 – The Story of Jesus Feeding the 5,00003:00 – What Does Jesus Equal in Your Life?06:15 – The Difference Between the Crowd and the Disciples09:40 – Admiration vs. Surrender: What Really Matters13:25 – Scarcity as the Starting Point for Miracles17:50 – Why God Subtracts Before He Multiplies21:30 – The Power of Dependence in Spiritual Growth25:15 – The Dog Poop Story: Learning from Overload29:10 – The CEO Encounter: God’s Power in Humility33:00 – What Fragments Are You Willing to Give to God?Sign up for Theos University - The best way to learn theologyhttps://www.theosu.ca/?via=Spencernak___________________________Become a Partner of the Ministryhttps://spencernakamura.com/partner__________________________Give a one-time donation to the Ministryhttps://spencernakamura.com/donation__________________________Download my FREE 5-day Devotional helping you understand the importance of The Word of Godhttps://mailchi.mp/d3bd65882c1a/5-day...__________________________

Send us a textChristians should be the best at everything they do because their work reflects who God is. But why do so many believers struggle with mediocrity? Why does Christian media, art, and culture often lack excellence? The problem is that we have compartmentalized our faith, limiting it to Sundays and church settings instead of seeing all of life as an opportunity to glorify God.In this episode, we break down why this mindset is damaging the influence of Christianity, how we got here, and what we can do to change it. From scripture-backed truth to historical examples of Christians shaping culture, we’ll challenge you to take your faith beyond Sundays and pursue excellence in every area of life.If you’re ready to stop settling for mediocrity and start making a real impact, this episode is for you.TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Why Christians struggle with mediocrity2:00 - The problem with compartmentalized faith5:45 - Christian art and culture should be better9:15 - Biblical examples of excellence13:00 - What Rome can teach us about influencing culture17:00 - How to break the cycle and pursue excellenceSign up for Theos University - The best way to learn theologyhttps://www.theosu.ca/?via=Spencernak___________________________Become a Partner of the Ministryhttps://spencernakamura.com/partner__________________________Give a one-time donation to the Ministryhttps://spencernakamura.com/donation__________________________Download my FREE 5-day Devotional helping you understand the importance of The Word of Godhttps://mailchi.mp/d3bd65882c1a/5-day...__________________________