Impact Nations Podcast

This week on The Road to the Cross, Tim and Steve dive into one of the most influential ideas in Western Christianity: original sin. How did a fifth-century theory by Augustine come to dominate our understanding of salvation, the cross, and even our identity? Tracing the theology from Eden to empire, they uncover a progression that reshaped how many Christians understand God's character—introducing fear, shame, and legalism into what was meant to be good news. 📌 Highlights include: This is Part 1 of a two-part exploration of atonement theories—don’t miss next week’s episode as we examine Christus Victor. 💡 If you’ve ever felt like the gospel was more about shame than restoration, this conversation is for you. 🌐 Learn more or support our mission: impactnations.com

This week on The Road to the Cross, Tim travels to Canada to sit down with theologian and author Bradley Jersak for a powerful conversation about cruciform love—the kind of love revealed on the cross that lays down power, enters our suffering, and forgives without limits. Together, they unpack what it means for Jesus to be self-giving, radically forgiving, and co-suffering—and how this shapes the way we pray, lead others, and share the gospel. With compelling stories, theological depth, and practical insights, this episode is a heartfelt invitation to reimagine what love really looks like when it’s shaped by the cross. 📌 Highlights: This is one of our most intimate and revealing conversations yet—don’t miss it. 🔗 Learn more or donate at impactnations.com

Is the cross only about personal forgiveness—or is there something far more expansive at work? In this powerful solo episode, Tim unpacks the breathtaking truth that the cross marked the beginning of God’s cosmic restoration—the healing of all creation, systems, and humanity itself. Drawing from early church fathers and N.T. Wright, he reclaims a gospel that is not about escaping this world, but restoring it. 💡 Discover what it means to live as an image-bearer in a broken world. ❤️‍🔥 Embrace a gospel that transforms everything. 👇 Watch now, and don’t forget to: ✔️ Like ✔️ Comment ✔️ Subscribe ✔️ Share with a friend hungry for deeper truth. 🌍 Learn how you can bring restoration to the poor at https://www.impactnations.com #CosmicRestoration #KingdomOfGod #NTWright #RestorativeJustice #ImpactNations #GospelOfTheKingdom #JesusRestoresAllThings #NewCreation #CruciformLove

In this week’s episode, Tim and Steve dive deep into two of the most powerful biblical images: the scapegoat and the Passover lamb. From ancient rituals in Leviticus to the prophetic imagery of Jesus in the Gospels, they explore how Christ takes on the blame of the world and offers a way of healing and peace instead of violence and accusation. You’ll hear about: 🎧 Whether you’re new to the conversation or a long-time listener, this episode will challenge you to see the cross through fresh eyes—and call you to live out its radical implications. 🙌 Subscribe and share the podcast—help us spread this message of hope, healing, and transformation. 📍 New episodes drop every Thursday. #Scapegoat #Passover #LambOfGod #Atonement #JesusDiedForUs #FaithAndCulture #ImpactNations #PodcastMinistry #ChristianityExplored #KingdomJustice #Buzzsprout

What if the cross is about more than personal forgiveness? In this episode, Tim takes us deep into the heart of Cosmic Restoration—the idea that Jesus’ death and resurrection began the healing of all things: creation, communities, and every broken part of our world. It's a powerful vision of the gospel that calls us to join the work of renewal right now. 🎧 Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode of The Road to the Cross. 📌 Subscribe, share the episode, and visit impactnations.com to learn how you can be part of Kingdom transformation. #CrossAndRestoration #ChristTheRestorer #FaithInAction #ImpactNations #BuzzsproutFaith #GospelTransformation

From Eden to Calvary—one story, two trees, and a promise fulfilled. In Episode 11 of The Road to the Cross, Steve and Tim explore the deep spiritual connection between the two trees in the Garden of Eden and the cross of Christ. Through rich theology, church history, and personal reflection, they unpack how the cross doesn't just echo Eden—it rewrites the story. You’ll discover: deificationThis episode invites you to revisit your origin, rediscover your identity, and reimagine the cross as the gateway back to paradise—and forward into new creation. 📖 Want to go deeper? Pursuing the Mystery of ChristSubscribe and share the podcast—help us spread this message of radical hope.

"Father, forgive them..." From the cross, Jesus spoke seven final phrases—each one rich with meaning, mercy, and mystery. In Episode 10 of The Road to the Cross, Steve and Tim explore the seven sayings of Jesus at the crucifixion. These last words reveal the fullness of His love: words of forgiveness for His enemies, compassion for His mother, welcome to a thief, and a bold proclamation that “It is finished.” Why did Jesus quote Psalm 22? What does it mean that blood and water flowed from His side? What do His final words tell us about His mission—and His victory? This conversation is a journey into the heart of the gospel. ✝️ Discover the cross again—and maybe for the first time. 🔍 Learn more about Impact Nations and our global work of rescue and restoration: https://www.impactnations.com 🌍 Join a Journey of Compassion: https://www.impactnations.com/journeys 🎧 Subscribe and leave a review to help others find the show!

"Father, forgive them..." From the cross, Jesus spoke seven final phrases—each one rich with meaning, mercy, and mystery. In Episode 10 of The Road to the Cross, Steve and Tim explore the seven sayings of Jesus at the crucifixion. These last words reveal the fullness of His love: words of forgiveness for His enemies, compassion for His mother, welcome to a thief, and a bold proclamation that “It is finished.” Why did Jesus quote Psalm 22? What does it mean that blood and water flowed from His side? What do His final words tell us about His mission—and His victory? This conversation is a journey into the heart of the gospel. ✝️ Discover the cross again—and maybe for the first time. 🔍 Learn more about Impact Nations and our global work of rescue and restoration: https://www.impactnations.com 🌍 Join a Journey of Compassion: https://www.impactnations.com/journeys 🎧 Subscribe and leave a review to help others find the show!

This week on The Road to the Cross, Steve and Tim follow Jesus beyond the city gates, where the condemned are cast out to die. As we approach Golgotha, we reflect on the shame of crucifixion, the symbolism of exile, and the prophetic layers hidden in the details of Jesus’ suffering. Why was he crucified outside the camp? What’s the deeper meaning behind the crown of thorns, the robe, and the inscription Pilate wrote? We also discuss mob violence, lament, and how Jesus’ journey still transforms lives today—from ancient Jerusalem to modern Uganda. 💡 Key themes: • The cultural shame of crucifixion • Prophetic imagery in Psalm 22, Isaiah 53 & Genesis 22 • The symbolism of being “outside the walls” • How the cross confronts power, pride, and religious violence • A powerful story of rescue from a young mother in Uganda 👉 Learn more about the mission: impactnations.com 👉 Support the work: impactnations.com/give —

Jesus stands before Pilate and the question rings out: What is truth? In Episode 8 of The Road to the Cross, Steve and Tim explore the trial of Jesus before the Roman authorities. From political manipulation to spiritual blindness, we witness a cosmic clash between kingdoms—and a king who rules from below. Along the way, we unpack: • The historical and spiritual meaning behind “Behold the man” • Why the mockery of Jesus carries a deeper truth • How injustice, fear, and mob mentality still operate today • The irony of religious leaders renouncing their own birthright Don’t miss this sobering and rich episode that uncovers how divine love stood silent in the face of accusation. Learn more about how Impact Nations is bringing hope and healing around the world at: www.impactnations.com

Welcome back to The Road to the Cross. This week, we enter a courtroom drenched in darkness—not of truth, but of manipulation. Jesus is dragged before the high priest, subjected to an illegal trial driven by false witnesses, corrupt leaders, and hidden agendas. Tim and Steve unpack: As spiritual darkness gathers, Jesus’ response is calm, courageous, and clear—a model for every believer facing injustice today. 🔥 This is not just history. This is a challenge to how we respond to injustice, to power, and to the temptation to fight back with force instead of love. New episodes every Thursday. To learn more about our global work or to support rescue and restoration efforts: impactnations.com

💔 In Episode 6 of The Road to the Cross, Steve and Tim reflect on two painful moments that shaped the Passion story: Judas’s betrayal and Peter’s denial. What does it mean to be betrayed by a friend with a kiss? How does Christ respond in the face of denial, violence, and abandonment? With tenderness and deep insight, Steve explores the mystery of divine compassion, even as the darkness thickens. In this episode: ✝️ Whether you’re a church leader or simply seeking a deeper understanding of Jesus’ journey to the cross, this episode will move you to reflect and respond. #ImpactNations #Jesus #Gethsemane #RoadToTheCross #Judas #Peter #Denial #Grace #ChristianFaith #EasterSeason #PassionOfTheChrist #KingdomOfGod #Hope #Forgiveness

🌟 In this episode of the Impact Nations podcast, Tim and Steve return to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus fully embraced the sorrow and suffering of humanity. Through theological reflection and heartfelt discussion, they explore how the Garden became a place of profound loneliness and pain, yet also a place of ultimate love and sacrifice. ❤️ Discover the mystery of Jesus as the "Man of Sorrows" and how His willing obedience paved the way for our redemption. Plus, gain fresh insights into how His experience in the Garden resonates with our own struggles today. Tune in for a compelling journey into the heart of Christ’s suffering and the power of His love. ✝️ #ImpactNations #ManOfSorrows #Gethsemane #ChristianPodcast #FaithJourney #BibleStudy #Jesus #Hope #ChristianFaith #TheCross

In this episode, we journey to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus faced his most vulnerable moment – wrestling with sorrow, pleading with the Father, and embracing the weight of what was to come. Join Steve and Tim as they delve into the depth of Christ's humanity and what it means for us today. Discover the profound significance of the Garden as a place of battle, sorrow, and ultimately, redemption. Explore the cosmic struggle and the unparalleled obedience displayed by Jesus as he fully embraced his humanity in the face of darkness. Don’t miss this powerful discussion as we continue our series, The Road to the Cross. 👉 Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on new episodes! #ImpactNations #Podcast #Jesus #Gethsemane #ChristianPodcast #RoadToTheCross

In this episode of The Road to the Cross, we continue exploring Jesus' final meal with His disciples. As He offers the cup, we uncover the deep connection between communion, sacrifice, and the prophetic imagery of the wine press. Tim and Steve unpack how this moment foreshadows Christ’s suffering and the love poured out for the world. Join us as we dive deeper into the mystery of the Eucharist and what it means for us today. 👉 Subscribe to The Impact Nations Podcast to stay up to date with new episodes. 🔗 For more resources and show notes, visit www.impactnations.com

In Episode 1: The Emptying Begins, we enter the Upper Room, where Jesus humbles Himself by washing the feet of His disciples. What does this moment reveal about His mission, the nature of true authority, and the road to the cross? Join us as we unpack the profound significance of Christ’s self-emptying love and how it calls us to a life of humility and service. 📖 Topics Covered: ✅ Jesus washing the disciples' feet—more than an act of service ✅ How this moment foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of the cross ✅ The upside-down kingdom: true power through humility ✅ The significance of Passover in Jesus’ journey ✅ What this means for us as Christ-followers today 🔔 Subscribe to stay updated as we explore the mystery, power, and paradox of the cross in the coming weeks! 📢 Help spread the word—share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement today. 👉 Join a Journey of Compassion: Bring the love of Jesus to the nations! Learn more: impactnations.com/joc #ImpactNations #RoadToTheCross #Jesus #Podcast #ChristianTeaching #BiblicalStudies #Theology

In Episode 1: The Emptying Begins, we enter the Upper Room, where Jesus humbles Himself by washing the feet of His disciples. What does this moment reveal about His mission, the nature of true authority, and the road to the cross? Join us as we unpack the profound significance of Christ’s self-emptying love and how it calls us to a life of humility and service. 📖 Topics Covered: ✅ Jesus washing the disciples' feet—more than an act of service ✅ How this moment foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of the cross ✅ The upside-down kingdom: true power through humility ✅ The significance of Passover in Jesus’ journey ✅ What this means for us as Christ-followers today 🔔 Subscribe to stay updated as we explore the mystery, power, and paradox of the cross in the coming weeks! 📢 Help spread the word—share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement today. 👉 Join a Journey of Compassion: Bring the love of Jesus to the nations! Learn more: impactnations.com/joc #ImpactNations #RoadToTheCross #Jesus #Podcast #ChristianTeaching #BiblicalStudies #Theology

This week, Tim is joined by author Marc Schelske to discuss his book Walking Otherward: Forty Meditations on Following Jesus' Path of Other-Centered, Co-Suffering Love. This forty-day devotional invites readers to journey with Jesus in the final weeks leading to His crucifixion, reflecting on the transformative power of kenotic (self-emptying) love. More than just a Lenten guide, this book provides a deeply theological and reflective approach to exchanging self-centered ambition for the radical, other-centered love of Christ. Tune in as Marc shares insights from his writing process, shaped by conversations with Dr. Bradley Jersak and a foreword by Brian Zahnd. Stay Connected with Marc: 📖 Buy the book https://amzn.to/3F0B5K4 🌎 Visit Marc’s website – https://www.marcalanschelske.com/ #Podcast #Christianity #WalkingOtherward #MarcSchelske #KenoticLove #SpiritualGrowth #FollowingJesus #BibleStudy #Lent

Nativity story. From the angelic proclamation to the shepherds to the life-changing reality of Christ's birth, we are invited to see the intersection of Heaven and Earth. The angels’ declaration, “Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace,” reminds us that the Nativity is not just a historical event but an invitation into a life of faith, wonder, and participation in God’s eternal kingdom. Throughout this series, we've explored the themes of hiddenness, humility, and the transformative power of God breaking into our world in smallness and frailty. Now, we see the culmination in the glory of God, calling us to rise and embrace the wonder of His presence, both around us and within us. The Nativity reminds us that the Kingdom of Heaven is here and now, inviting us to live with an active, unwavering faith. 📖 Deepen your understanding of this mystery with Steve Stewart’s new book, The Mystery of Christ. #NativityStory #GloryOfGod #ChristmasDevotional #ImpactNations #FaithJourney #HeavenOnEarth #GodWithUs

The Nativity story begins with a message of inclusivity, offering hope to those on the margins of society. From the shepherds—outcasts and societal outsiders—to the Magi, foreigners who journeyed far to worship the Christ child, the gospel reveals its universal reach. This episode highlights the radical nature of the Nativity: a story that welcomes the poor, the misunderstood, and the overlooked into the heart of God’s plan. Both groups of visitors demonstrate faith, obedience, and worship, underscoring the inclusive and transformative nature of the gospel. Through the eyes of the shepherds and the Magi, we are reminded of Jesus’ invitation to all who are weary and heavy-laden to find rest in Him. Join us as we explore the richness of God’s grace extended to all humanity, regardless of status or origin. 📖 Explore more of these profound truths in Steve Stewart’s new book, The Mystery of Christ. #NativityStory #GodWithUs #InclusiveGospel #ImpactNations #FaithJourney #ChristmasMessage #HopeForAll