The Harder Way Podcast

Special: Embracing a Jesus-Centered Life

Episode 10: remastered - Focusing on God's Kingdom is Paramount now.
In this classic episode of The Harder Way Podcast, Scott and Mattie explore the final principle in their series on resilient, persecuted Christians: living a Jesus-centered life. They discuss the concept of steward theology, emphasizing a shift from a self-centered to a Christ-centered existence. This approach redefines our understanding of community, calling, suffering, and God's providence, urging us to focus on Jesus, His people, and His priorities.
The hosts delve into how living as stewards can transform our relationships with God, ourselves, neighbors, and the world around us. The episode challenges listeners to trust God's sovereignty and providence, steering away from fear and control towards faith and reliance on God's will.
Join Scott and Mattie as they encourage American Christians to learn from the resilience of persecuted believers and aim to live a life marked by faith and purpose in an increasingly hostile culture. Tune in for insights on how to prepare spiritually for the challenges ahead and embrace a life of stewardship and trust in God's greater plan.

#93 - Navigating Post-Election Emotions and Global Needs

Whether you're feeling hopeful or anxious about the future, this episode encourages you to trust in God's sovereignty and be an agent of change through love and service.
Welcome back to the Harder Way Podcast with Scott and Mattie. In this episode, we dive into a compelling story from Malawi, Africa, where a mission trip led to the establishment of Water Wells for Africa, transforming lives with clean water and Bible education. Discover how this initiative started from a simple observation and grew into a nationwide impact, providing Bibles and curriculum to millions of children in Malawi.
We also explore the aftermath of the recent U.S. presidential election, discussing the divided emotions and the importance of prayer during uncertain times. Scott and Mattie emphasize the need to focus on God's plan and how Christians can be a force for unity and love in a politically divided world. They challenge listeners to look for opportunities to serve others in their communities and remind us all of the importance of keeping our eyes on Jesus.

#92 - Election Idolatry

In this gripping episode, we dive into the complex world of idolatry in modern Christianity, exploring how fear and the desire for control can lead us astray from true faith. Our conversation begins with a shocking event in Kenya, where a pastor's misguided teachings led to a tragic mass suicide, drawing parallels to the infamous Jonestown incident.As we shift focus to the upcoming elections, we discuss the pervasive issue of political idolatry and how it can impact our sense of security and well-being. We challenge listeners to examine their own lives for hidden idols, emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty over worldly influences.Join us as we uncover the subtle ways idolatry manifests today and offer practical advice for maintaining a Christ-centered perspective amidst cultural and political chaos. With insightful biblical references and personal anecdotes, this episode encourages believers to place their faith in God alone, finding peace and contentment beyond earthly idols.

#91 - Under the Banner of Love

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on faith, politics, and the enduring power of love amidst uncertainty.  
In this episode of The Harder Way podcast, hosts Scott and Mattie discuss the upcoming election in the United States, emphasizing the importance of focusing on God's will rather than political divisions. Our hosts encourage listeners to rise above the fray of political rhetoric, reminding them that the true banner they stand under is that of Christ's love, symbolized by the Lion and the Lamb.

#90 - Trick or Trap: Revealing the Enemy's Deceptions

Welcome back to The Harder Way podcast with Count Scottula and Mattieboo! This episode starts with a thought-provoking "Hot Topics" segment from Australia, looking into cultural practices and freedom of speech issues. We explore the complex themes of compelled speech, hate speech, and religious persecution. We discuss a controversial event in Australia where Christian speaker Dave Pellow faced legal challenges for his beliefs, highlighting the growing tension between faith and societal norms.
As a nod to Halloween, we reveal the tricks and traps Christians face before and during persecution and how to navigate them with wisdom and faith. Drawing insights from a study on persecuted pastors in China, we offer guidance on preparing for suffering, trusting God, and finding strength in community.

#89 - The 5 Persecutions

episode 89
Welcome back to The Harder Way Podcast with Scott and Mattie. As the seasons change and the podcast nears its 100th episode, Scott and Maddie introduce a new segment called "Hot Topics," discussing current events from a Harder Way perspective. This week's Hot Topic is the early aftermath of Hurricane Helene, its impact on the historically Scots-Irish communities, and the lessons we can learn about faith and dependency on God during natural disasters.
Next, Scott and Mattie explore various types of persecution Christians face today, from micro-persecutions to cultural, Marxist, and Islamic persecution. They emphasize the importance of understanding these challenges and maintaining faith amidst adversity. The episode also addresses the phenomenon of 'friendly fire,' where Christians may face opposition from within their own community.

#88 - Between the Podcasts - Part 2

Welcome to the second part of our special edition of the Harder Way Podcast. In this episode, Scott delves into the challenging topics of persecution and suffering, exploring how to respond with faith and resilience in a changing societal climate. Drawing from biblical teachings and real-life examples, he offers practical prescriptions for dealing with persecution and enduring hardships. Scott emphasizes the importance of trusting God, pursuing a life of love and holiness, and viewing persecution as a means of glorifying God.
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Join Scott as he shares personal stories, historical examples, and spiritual insights to help you strengthen your faith and diminish fear. Whether you face personal struggles or societal challenges, this episode aims to provide the tools and encouragement needed to walk the Harder Way.

#87 - Between the Podcasts - Part 1

Welcome to a special episode of the Harder Way Podcast. In this "Between the Podcasts" episode, we delve into the profound topics of persecution, suffering, and the purpose of the Harder Way podcast.
Send Bibles to the persecuted church. 
Receive the Courier Update
Support this podcast!
Scott provides a comprehensive definition of persecution and discusses its relationship with suffering and martyrdom using the Russian nesting doll metaphor. Learn how persecution and suffering are inescapable parts of following Jesus and how they are constantly changing in type and intensity.
Dive into the causes of persecution, from Satan's rejection of God's people to the role of governments and ideologies. Scott examines the persecution Christians face in various countries and the enduring strength of the persecuted church.
Understand the different levels of persecution, from subtle discrimination to extreme measures like imprisonment and death. Gain insight into how Christians can prepare spiritually for suffering and persecution and how these trials can lead to a profound intimacy with Christ and the growth of His kingdom.
Scott also touches on the current state of the church in Cuba and other regions, offering a glimpse into the resilience and faith of persecuted Christians worldwide. He emphasizes the importance of being spiritually prepared for suffering, whether natural disasters or political turmoil.
Join us next week to continue this discussion, where Scott will address practical steps and solutions for facing persecution and suffering as Christians. Don't miss this thought-provoking and spiritually enriching episode of the Harder Way Podcast.
Thank you for listening to the Harder Way Podcast. If you were encouraged by this episode, please consider sharing it with a friend or leaving us a review. To be the first to know when we publish new episodes, subscribe to the Harder Way Podcast on your favorite platform. Until next time, remember the words of Christ, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."