8:40 - 1 Peter - Life As Witness

New episode, new section in the book of 1 Peter as we dig into the idea of a cruciformed witness among the nations. (1 Peter 2:11 onward). We are in the world, but not of it—resident aliens representing the Kingdom of God wherever we go. How do we relate properly to non-believers and the powers of the world? Tune in today as the guys explore what Peter calls us to, and how this call challenges the way we live and love in our modern context.

Picking up in chapter 2 of 1 Peter, we return to the theme of love. Not all babies go to the nursery—so what keeps us from growing? Could malicious talk, insincerity, or selfish motives be getting in the way of your witness? In today's digital world, where division often dominates the conversation, we're reminded how easy it is to return to old habits and worldly concerns—like a dog returning to its vomit. Tune into today's episode as the guys unpack how our love for one another can be tested, challenged, and sometimes compromised—and how to guard against it in faith and truth.

Does God call us to love everyone in a universal way, or are we called to love in a specific, concentrated way? For some, this is an easy answer; for others, it's a point of contention. Which is it for you? In an age of polarizing tension, the world could really use some love. In today's episode, the guys explore what it means to purify ourselves—and what that has to do with love. So, tune in today as the guys discuss how we can offer the best loving witness to the world!

Continuing in chapter 1, verse 17, we resume our study of 1 Peter. God will judge each person according to their works, yet we are saved by grace through faith—not by works. Do Paul and Peter preach different gospels? How do we synthesize these messages? Join the guys as they wade into deep theological waters. Works, faith, predestination, and more await you in this installment of the After Class Podcast.

The world distorts, persecutes, lies, and tempts us to be distracted. Despite this, are you experiencing the indescribable joy found in Christ? When we embrace the vision of the Kingdom of God inaugurated in Christ, it produces a joy that looks ahead to the fullness we will one day experience — yet can already taste now. As Peter writes: "Even though you have not seen Him, you love Him. Though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with a glorious joy that cannot be put into words, for you are receiving the salvation of your souls — the final result of your faith." So now what? Join the guys as they unpack what it means to believe without seeing, gird up the loins of our minds, and discover how joy can spring up even in the midst of suffering for the faith.

Today the guys continue our study and examine 1 Peter 1:3–9. To choose allegiance to Christ and His Kingdom is to enter into conflict and enmity with the world wherever you may roam. What does it mean that our inheritance is kept in heaven? Are we Livin' on a Prayer, or is it true that the world Can't Touch This salvation we hope for as we follow The Man, the Lord Jesus Christ? Don't Stop Believin'—don't miss out on the great things God is calling us into! Pick your walk-up song and get ready for the endgame in today's episode of the After Class Podcast.

We break from our scheduled study to speak about the tragic death of a brother in Christ.  As the media engine turns out various narratives tuned to match the algorithms of the viewer,  how do we process what has happened in a distinctly Christian way—one that seeks to glorify Christ and strengthen our walk together as witnesses to the Kingdom of God? 

The guys are cruising into a brand-new series, ready to park in 1 Peter for a while. Rooted in the Old Testament, this letter shows us how the gospel still speaks directly into our lives today. As exiled brothers and sisters in Christ, scattered across the globe, 1 Peter delivers a timely word for each of us. In this episode, the guys check the mirrors with some historical context and then shift gears into a conversation about predestination. Were you predestined to listen to this episode? There's only one way to find out…  

After 8 years or so of podcasts, we thought it might be a good idea to remind our listeners of what we do and why we do it. But instead of just telling you, we thought a top 10 list would be appropriate. So this episode pays homage to David Letterman and gives you "The Top 10 Ways NOT to listen to the After Class Podcast."

Today's episode wraps up our "Holy Humor" series. We finish with a few stories and statements in the New Testament and then end with each of the guys name what they think is the funniest book, story, and line. Prepare to roll right out of your chair with laughter.