I share reflections from my walk with God—studying Scripture, exploring faith, and speaking from the heart. My hope is that my journey will encourage and inspire you in your own. For more resources and insights connected to each episode, visit my blog at PrMarlon.com.
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In this sermon on John 11, Pr. Marlon reflects on trust in God when circumstances feel uncertain, using a personal travel delay as an example of frustration and helplessness. He connects that experience to Mary and Martha’s waiting for Jesus and emphasizes that faith means resting in Jesus even when the outcome is unclear. The sermon also examines Jesus at Lazarus’s tomb, including Martha’s objection to removing the stone and the description of Jesus as deeply moved. The speaker explains that God often calls people to act when only He can do the miracle, and concludes by highlighting that Jesu
We study John 11 and the story of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha, focusing on Jesus’ delay after hearing that Lazarus is sick and the question of how suffering can serve God’s glory and strengthen faith. We follow the disciples’ concern, Jesus’ explanation that Lazarus has died, and His purpose in going so that the disciples may believe.We then see Martha meet Jesus in grief, trust that God will answer Him, and hear Jesus say, “I am the resurrection and the life.” Mary also comes to Jesus in sorrow, and we emphasize Jesus’ tears as a sign of God’s compassion and the passage’s message that we can tr
In this study, I focus on the story of Rahab in Joshua 2 and the idea that God is not afraid of messy people. I walk through the spying mission in Jericho, Rahab’s protection of the spies, and her confession that the Lord is God in heaven above and on earth beneath. I also discuss the question of Rahab’s background and note that the biblical text calls her a harlot. We connect her story to the wider Bible, including Matthew’s genealogy, and conclude that God received her into his family and offers the same mercy to us.
In this episode, we discuss how scripture should shape our interpretation rather than culture or tradition, using “The Sheepfold” as a framework for examining differing biblical readings. We trace the shift from Israel’s story to Jesus’ words in John 10:16 about “other sheep” and “one flock,” and we reflect on how the early church developed after Jesus was rejected. We also consider how Greek philosophy influenced Christian theology over time, especially regarding ideas about the soul, God, and time, and how this influenced doctrines such as prayer and the second coming. We close by stressing
In this episode, we discuss the idea of the remnant in Scripture and whether it refers only to an end-time group or to a faithful people present throughout biblical history. We trace the theme from Revelation and the Old Testament through Elijah, Noah, Abraham, and other examples to show that God has always preserved a faithful people by grace through faith. We also look at how Jesus reads Scripture in Luke 24 and connect the Old and New Testaments as one story pointing to him. Finally, we discuss what it means to belong to God’s people in daily life, emphasizing faithfulness, visible fruit, a
In this episode, I conclude my series on Jonah by focusing on Jonah’s anger after Nineveh repents and God spares the city. I explore Jonah’s prayer, his complaint about God’s mercy, and the contrast between his narrow expectations and God’s description of himself as gracious, merciful, patient, and forgiving. I also connect Jonah’s story to the wider Bible, including Exodus 34 and Jesus’ teaching about loving enemies and praying for those who persecute us. The episode ends with God’s lesson through the plant, the worm, and the hot wind, showing that God’s concern extends beyond Jonah’s prefere
After experiencing God’s mercy firsthand, Jonah is given a second chance and sent once again to Nineveh with a message of judgment. Surprisingly, the wicked city responds with humility, repentance, and faith, revealing the depth of God’s grace toward even His enemies. Jonah 3 challenges readers to reflect on repentance, divine mercy, and God’s desire to save rather than destroy.
In this episode, I continue a verse-by-verse study of Jonah chapter 2, focusing on Jonah’s prayer from inside the great fish. I discuss the passage as a historical account, examine the setting of Jonah’s distress, and explain how prayer, Bible reading, worship, and repeated exposure to God’s word shape a person’s response in hardship. In this study, I also examine Jonah’s prayer language, especially its echoes of the Psalms, and note that God hears him even from a place that seems like death. I also address Jonah’s lack of explicit repentance, emphasizing that God responds to those who turn to
In this episode, we explore Jonah 1 beyond the familiar story of the great fish and uncover a powerful narrative about fear, rebellion, grace, and God’s relentless pursuit of people. We examine the historical background of Jonah, the brutality of Nineveh, Jonah’s attempt to flee from God’s calling, and the terrifying storm that followed. Along the way, we reflect on how disobedience impacts not only us but also those around us, and how God continues working through broken people to accomplish His purposes. This episode challenges us to consider whether we are running from God’s calling and wha
What if the most loving thing God can do is the thing that hurts? I share a personal experience— my child begging me to leave a splinter alone— to explore a truth most of us wrestle with: God's love doesn't always feel like love in the moment. Walking through Romans 5:8, the story of Jonah, and 1 John 4, this post challenges us to stop imposing our definition of love onto God and instead let His actions teach us what love actually looks like. His love is constant whether we're obedient, rebellious, or somewhere in between. And His plans are good, even when the process is painful. A message for
Many people wrestle with the idea that Jesus is the only way to salvation. In this episode, we take a deeper look at that claim by walking through the Bible’s story and focusing on a powerful moment in Gethsemane. As Jesus faces the cross, He asks if there is another way. The answer reveals something profound: the cross was necessary. Join us as we unpack what this means for your faith and your life.
In this episode, we confront a troubling reality: powerful healthcare corporations like CVS Health are using AI algorithms and massive vertical integration to deny patient care while generating nearly $400 billion in revenue. But how should Christians respond to systems that profit from suffering? We turn to Scripture and examine Jesus’ heart for the oppressed, the outcasts, and the vulnerable. Through the powerful story of Zacchaeus — the rich, corrupt chief tax collector — we discover how Jesus seeks and saves even those who profit from oppression. Watch as Zacchaeus goes from greedy oppress
In this episode, I discuss the biblical concept of treasure from Ephesians 2:10, emphasizing our identity as God's masterpieces created for good works. I encourage parental involvement in ministry and reflect on Matthew 13's parables about valuing our relationship with God. Highlighting the need for children to understand their worth, I share personal anecdotes that illustrate how we can recognize and uplift one another. Ultimately, I aim to inspire a community where everyone feels cherished and valued, reinforcing our unique roles in fostering faith and identity.
Pr. Marlon reflects on his modest violin-playing days in school and college orchestras. He wasn’t highly skilled and didn’t practice much, but he was content to contribute just enough to belong—later adding value through setup, teardown, and unglamorous tasks. This taught him: you don’t need to be the best or hold a title like concertmaster to make a meaningful difference in a group. This leads into the biblical story of Abigail in 1 Samuel 25—a powerful example of leadership from an unlikely source. After Samuel’s death, David’s men protect the wealthy but harsh Nabal’s shepherds and flocks i
In this episode, I discuss communion, salvation, and God's unwavering love through Scripture and foot washing. I begin with a prayer, emphasizing that our acceptance into God's family is based on His grace, not our worthiness. By sharing personal reflections and biblical narratives, I highlight God's redemptive plan and the significance of foot washing as an act of humility and servitude. I encourage listeners to view this ritual as a means of reconciliation, urging them to seek forgiveness in their relationships. As we prepare for communion, I invite everyone to participate and reflect on Chr
In the midst of New Year's resolutions and endless noise, I discovered one surprisingly simple habit that’s quietly transforming my life — and it has nothing to do with willpower or massive overhauls. I deleted social media apps (yes, even YouTube) from my phone, creating pockets of silence throughout my day. Instead of mindless scrolling, I started filling that space with daily prayer — specifically asking for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, inspired by Luke 11:13. What started as a small experiment has become the most powerful habit I’ve ever built. Drawing from Atomic Habits by James Cle
In this heartfelt Christmas episode, we explore the powerful lyrics of "O Holy Night," focusing on the lines "Long lay the world in sin and error pining, till He appeared and the soul felt its worth. A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices..." With the world feeling heavy—anxiety, political division, economic pressure, and a sense of futility—it's easy to wonder: Why bother being kind? Why live with integrity when selfishness seems to pay off? The answer changes everything: Jesus appeared. His birth wasn't just a sweet story—it's God Himself entering our brokenness, showing us our infinite
In this episode, I delve into the profound meaning of Jesus Christ’s birth and its connection to God’s consistent, unchanging love. I explore the significance of the Sabbath, revealing it as an opportunity to strengthen our relationships with God and each other. The message emphasizes that God’s character has always been about love and connection, from the creation story to the Christmas narrative. Join me as we uncover how these timeless truths can impact our lives today, encouraging us to rest, reflect, and reconnect with our spiritual foundations.
Unlock deeper meaning in your Bible reading—without commentaries, software, or knowing Greek or Hebrew. In this episode, I share a simple method anyone can use to get more out of biblical stories by slowing down, praying, and engaging your sanctified imagination. Using Acts 16 as an example, you’ll discover how to place yourself inside the text, ask better questions, and uncover spiritual insights hidden in plain sight. If you’ve ever wanted your Bible reading to feel more alive and personal, this guide will show you how.
In today’s episode, we explore a timeless truth about human nature: why we’re so often dissatisfied, even when we have more than enough. We begin with the parable of The 99 Gold Coin Club, the story of a joyful servant whose life unravels the moment he receives an unexpected fortune. What once filled him with gratitude becomes a source of anxiety, greed, and discontent—all because he couldn’t stop thinking about the one coin he didn’t have. From there, we turn to Scripture, reflecting on Paul’s powerful exhortation in 1 Thessalonians to “rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in
When God was silent, Saul turned to the occult — and it became the darkest night of his life. In this episode, we explore the mysterious encounter between King Saul and the Witch of Endor in 1 Samuel 28. Was it really the prophet Samuel who appeared, or a deception from the enemy? Join us as we uncover the historical, biblical, and spiritual layers of this haunting story — what it reveals about Saul’s heart, God’s silence, and the danger of seeking power instead of seeking God. 0:14 Introduction to A Witch? 11:52 Saul's Desperate Search 17:24 The Medium of Endor 21:01 The Role of God in Saul's
In this episode, we hear from Sandra and Armando, a couple whose resilience in the face of adversity is rooted in their faith in God. Sandra recounts her battle with cancer, the emotional turmoil of a long hospitalization, and how her faith and family support helped her endure even the darkest moments. Armando shares the challenges of caring for both Sandra and his elderly mother with Alzheimer's, reflecting on their shared grief after her passing. Together, they highlight the role of prayer and community support in navigating their hardships. Sandra's journey illustrates how personal sufferin
Unveil the profound meaning of loving God as the greatest commandment. Prioritizing God can shape your life with biblical insights and practical tips in this enlightening post.
In this episode, I emphasize the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God amidst life's demands. Using Matthew 6:33 as a foundation, I discuss how daily concerns can overshadow spiritual priorities and the need for intentional habits. Drawing from *Atomic Habits*, I highlight starting the day with God to reshape our routines. I also explore how following Jesus fosters self-denial and service to others, transforming our lives and communities. Ultimately, remaining in Christ is vital for bearing good fruit and defining our actions. Prioritizing God shapes our lives profoundly.
Discover the importance of finding balance in tension in various aspects of life to navigate social, political, and religious climates with practical insights.
