Back to the Bible Canada with Dr. John Neufeld

In today’s episode, Dr. John examines the parable of the prodigal son, focusing on the often-overlooked perspective of the older brother. While the father rejoices over his younger son’s return, the older son wrestles with anger and self-righteousness. What does this response reveal about grace, forgiveness, and our own hearts? Discover the powerful lessons Jesus teaches about celebration and the joy of restoration in Luke 15:25-32. The Invitation: Invitations are usually a joy to receive. Birthdays, anniversaries, a coffee with a friend. Whether they are printed on embossed stationary or sent via a text, an invitation means that our presence is desired. In this 10-message series, Dr. John continues his study of Luke's gospel. In it, we hear Jesus' repeated invitation "to come." God desires our presence.

The parable of the prodigal son shows the difference between poor choices and amazing grace. Dr. John looks at how both sons react to their father’s love—one with regret and the other with anger. He explains the father’s response, revealing how God’s grace can restore and change us, no matter what we’ve done. Dr. John encourages us to reflect on how we receive God’s love and forgiveness in our own lives. The Invitation: Invitations are usually a joy to receive. Birthdays, anniversaries, a coffee with a friend. Whether they are printed on embossed stationary or sent via a text, an invitation means that our presence is desired. In this 10-message series, Dr. John continues his study of Luke's gospel. In it, we hear Jesus' repeated invitation "to come." God desires our presence.

Heaven erupts with joy over every sinner who repents—this is the powerful truth Dr. John explores in today’s message from Luke 15:1-10. As Jesus tells the parable of the lost sheep, we are reminded of God’s deep love for those who have strayed. Just as the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to find the one lost sheep, Jesus came to seek and save the lost. Dr. John reflects on the joy in heaven when a sinner turns to Christ and how this is the heart of Jesus’ ministry. This story reveals God’s grace, inviting even the most unlikely to His table. The Invitation: Invitations are usually a joy to receive. Birthdays, anniversaries, a coffee with a friend. Whether they are printed on embossed stationary or sent via a text, an invitation means that our presence is desired. In this 10-message series, Dr. John continues his study of Luke's gospel. In it, we hear Jesus' repeated invitation "to come." God desires our presence.

Following Jesus requires more than enthusiasm or temporary commitment. In Luke 14:25-35, Jesus challenges the crowds to consider the cost of discipleship. Dr. John Neufeld explores the radical nature of Jesus' call, emphasizing the need to place Him above all else. What does it mean to "finish well" in the Christian life? Dr. John unpacks how we can remain faithful to Jesus, even when the cost is high. The Invitation: Invitations are usually a joy to receive. Birthdays, anniversaries, a coffee with a friend. Whether they are printed on embossed stationary or sent via a text, an invitation means that our presence is desired. In this 10-message series, Dr. John continues his study of Luke's gospel. In it, we hear Jesus' repeated invitation "to come." God desires our presence.

In this episode, Dr. John reflects on the Parable of the Great Banquet from Luke 14:12-24. Jesus challenges the idea of entitlement, showing that those who feel they deserve the best in life may miss out on the greatest invitation of all—the invitation to God's kingdom. The parable emphasizes that the invitation to the heavenly banquet is extended to those who might be overlooked in this world: the poor, the lame, the blind. Jesus warns that those who reject the invitation, consumed by earthly distractions, will miss out on eternal blessings. Dr. John encourages us to examine our own hearts and respond to God's invitation with humility and faith. The Invitation: Invitations are usually a joy to receive. Birthdays, anniversaries, a coffee with a friend. Whether they are printed on embossed stationary or sent via a text, an invitation means that our presence is desired. In this 10-message series, Dr. John continues his study of Luke's gospel. In it, we hear Jesus' repeated invitation "to come." God desires our presence.

Dr. John begins a new series on The Invitation by examining Jesus' teaching in Luke 14:1-11. In this passage, Jesus challenges the religious leaders' understanding of humility and status. Through a parable about a banquet, He reveals that those who humble themselves will be exalted, while those who seek honour for themselves will be humbled. Dr. Neufeld explores the deeper meaning of this invitation to God's kingdom and how we are called to embrace humility in our relationship with God and others. The Invitation: Invitations are usually a joy to receive. Birthdays, anniversaries, a coffee with a friend. Whether they are printed on embossed stationary or sent via a text, an invitation means that our presence is desired. In this 10-message series, Dr. John continues his study of Luke's gospel. In it, we hear Jesus' repeated invitation "to come." God desires our presence.

In this episode, Dr. John Neufeld talks about the challenges and beauty of the local church, using the short book of 3 John. He compares the faithfulness of Gaius, who welcomed traveling missionaries, with the actions of Diotrephes, a church leader who sought power. Dr. Neufeld also highlights Demetrius, a faithful believer whose life showed godliness and truth. These examples remind us of the importance of staying faithful in the church, even with its flaws, and how everyday Christians can make a lasting impact by living out their faith. A Portrait of Christian Faithfulness: In spite of its brevity, 3 John provides us with a portrait of what faithful Christians in the early church did when it came to living a life of faith. It is a reference point of what a life of faithfulness should look like—even if we don’t work in full-time ministry. It’s amazing what God can do when we allow ourselves to be taught by His Word! A characteristic of a faithful Christian is someone who fully trusts God with their life without wavering, but what else does faithfulness entail? Does living a life of faith stop inside of us, or is faithfulness a quality that others can see from the outside?

Pride and power can be dangerous forces within the church. Dr. John Neufeld explores the story of Diotrephes from 3 John 9-10, a man who, driven by self-importance, rejects the authority of the apostles and manipulates the church for personal gain. In contrast, Gaius serves as an example of humility and faithfulness. This study challenges us to reflect on the destructive nature of pride and the importance of humility in our walk with Christ. A Portrait of Christian Faithfulness: In spite of its brevity, 3 John provides us with a portrait of what faithful Christians in the early church did when it came to living a life of faith. It is a reference point of what a life of faithfulness should look like—even if we don’t work in full-time ministry. It’s amazing what God can do when we allow ourselves to be taught by His Word! A characteristic of a faithful Christian is someone who fully trusts God with their life without wavering, but what else does faithfulness entail? Does living a life of faith stop inside of us, or is faithfulness a quality that others can see from the outside?

Gaius wasn’t a preacher or leader, but his faithfulness to the truth and support for God’s work made a lasting impact. Dr. John highlights how God honors those who quietly serve Him, showing that even the seemingly unnoticed have a vital role in His kingdom. Whether through hospitality, encouragement, or generosity, their contributions advance the gospel in powerful ways. Be encouraged—God sees and values every act of service, no matter how small. A Portrait of Christian Faithfulness: In spite of its brevity, 3 John provides us with a portrait of what faithful Christians in the early church did when it came to living a life of faith. It is a reference point of what a life of faithfulness should look like—even if we don’t work in full-time ministry. It’s amazing what God can do when we allow ourselves to be taught by His Word! A characteristic of a faithful Christian is someone who fully trusts God with their life without wavering, but what else does faithfulness entail? Does living a life of faith stop inside of us, or is faithfulness a quality that others can see from the outside?

Does God promise health and wealth to His followers? In this message, Dr. John Neufeld carefully examines 3 John 2—a verse often used to support the prosperity gospel. He unpacks its true meaning by exploring the literary context and exposing the dangers of misinterpreting Scripture. Dr. John challenges the belief that spiritual maturity guarantees material wealth and highlights how the prosperity gospel has misled many around the world. Instead of imposing our desires on the Bible, we are called to let the Bible speak for itself. A Portrait of Christian Faithfulness: In spite of its brevity, 3 John provides us with a portrait of what faithful Christians in the early church did when it came to living a life of faith. It is a reference point of what a life of faithfulness should look like—even if we don’t work in full-time ministry. It’s amazing what God can do when we allow ourselves to be taught by His Word! A characteristic of a faithful Christian is someone who fully trusts God with their life without wavering, but what else does faithfulness entail? Does living a life of faith stop inside of us, or is faithfulness a quality that others can see from the outside?

In this opening episode, Dr. John Neufeld introduces the shortest book in the New Testament, 3 John, which highlights what faithfulness looks like for everyday Christians. While the New Testament often focuses on leaders like Peter or Paul, 3 John shines a light on faithful, ordinary believers—men and women who quietly advance the gospel in their communities. Dr. John explains how this brief letter offers a valuable portrait of Christian faithfulness, showing us the importance of both godly leadership and the faithfulness of those not in the spotlight. A Portrait of Christian Faithfulness: In spite of its brevity, 3 John provides us with a portrait of what faithful Christians in the early church did when it came to living a life of faith. It is a reference point of what a life of faithfulness should look like—even if we don’t work in full-time ministry. It’s amazing what God can do when we allow ourselves to be taught by His Word! A characteristic of a faithful Christian is someone who fully trusts God with their life without wavering, but what else does faithfulness entail? Does living a life of faith stop inside of us, or is faithfulness a quality that others can see from the outside?

The angels’ announcement of “peace on earth” at Jesus’ birth has often been misunderstood, leading many to question the Christmas message. While the world remains filled with conflict, the peace promised in Luke 2:14 isn’t a cessation of war, but peace between God and humanity through Jesus. Dr. John explores how the true peace of Christmas is found in reconciliation with God, not the absence of conflict, and how this peace was revealed in the prophecy of Simeon, who saw in Jesus the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. A Well-Researched Christmas: You can’t tell the story of the birth of Jesus without telling the story of impossible problems, political intrigue and a great ancient promise being fulfilled among unsuspecting people. It’s a hope so real and solid and explains why this amazing story of Christmas never gets old and will not pass away. In this 10-message Christmas series, Dr. John Neufeld unpacks the first two chapters of the book of Luke.

The birth of Jesus was announced to humble shepherds, the first to hear the "good news of great joy" from the angels. Dr. John Neufeld reflects on why God chose these shepherds to witness the birth of the Savior. He explores the significance of Jesus as the "great shepherd" and the contrast between the imperial power of Caesar Augustus and the peaceful kingdom Jesus came to establish. Through the shepherds' story, we see God's eternal purpose unfolding in Jesus, the shepherd and sacrificial lamb for his people. A Well-Researched Christmas: You can’t tell the story of the birth of Jesus without telling the story of impossible problems, political intrigue and a great ancient promise being fulfilled among unsuspecting people. It’s a hope so real and solid and explains why this amazing story of Christmas never gets old and will not pass away. In this 10-message Christmas series, Dr. John Neufeld unpacks the first two chapters of the book of Luke.

In this message, Dr. John reflects on the powerful moment when God broke into human history through the birth of Jesus. The humble birth in Bethlehem was not just a historical event—it was the beginning of God’s plan to bring salvation to the world. As we celebrate Christmas, we are reminded of the significance of this moment, where God's love and grace entered our world in the most unexpected way, offering hope and peace to all. A Well-Researched Christmas: You can’t tell the story of the birth of Jesus without telling the story of impossible problems, political intrigue and a great ancient promise being fulfilled among unsuspecting people. It’s a hope so real and solid and explains why this amazing story of Christmas never gets old and will not pass away. In this 10-message Christmas series, Dr. John Neufeld unpacks the first two chapters of the book of Luke.

Zechariah’s song, found in Luke 1:57-80, captures a powerful moment of praise and prophecy. After months of silence, Zechariah’s tongue is loosed, and he speaks words filled with the Holy Spirit, declaring God's faithfulness and the coming of salvation through Jesus. In this message, Dr. John explores how Zechariah's song reveals God's divine plan for both John and Jesus, showing us that our lives, like theirs, are shaped by God's will, not our own ambitions. A Well-Researched Christmas: You can’t tell the story of the birth of Jesus without telling the story of impossible problems, political intrigue and a great ancient promise being fulfilled among unsuspecting people. It’s a hope so real and solid and explains why this amazing story of Christmas never gets old and will not pass away. In this 10-message Christmas series, Dr. John Neufeld unpacks the first two chapters of the book of Luke.

In today’s episode, Dr. John Neufeld explores Mary’s Song, a beautiful expression of worship found in Luke 1:46-56. As Mary celebrates the news of Jesus’ birth, her words reveal a heart filled with gratitude and joy. Dr. John reflects on how Mary’s response to God’s grace can inspire us to see His greatness in our own lives. A Well-Researched Christmas: You can’t tell the story of the birth of Jesus without telling the story of impossible problems, political intrigue and a great ancient promise being fulfilled among unsuspecting people. It’s a hope so real and solid and explains why this amazing story of Christmas never gets old and will not pass away. In this 10-message Christmas series, Dr. John Neufeld unpacks the first two chapters of the book of Luke.

In this episode, Dr. John reflects on Mary’s pivotal role in the Christmas story. While often downplayed in evangelical circles, Mary is a model of grace and faith, chosen by God to bear the Savior. Dr. John highlights her humility, the incredible grace she received, and clarifies that while she was honored, she was not sinless, as part of God's redemptive plan. A Well-Researched Christmas: You can’t tell the story of the birth of Jesus without telling the story of impossible problems, political intrigue and a great ancient promise being fulfilled among unsuspecting people. It’s a hope so real and solid and explains why this amazing story of Christmas never gets old and will not pass away. In this 10-message Christmas series, Dr. John Neufeld unpacks the first two chapters of the book of Luke.

As we prepare for Christmas, we reflect on the incredible story of Mary, the young woman chosen to bear the Son of God. Dr. John unpacks the moment when the angel Gabriel delivers this world-changing news, connecting it to other miraculous births in Scripture. Through this, we see how God's plans often defy human understanding, reminding us of His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. A Well-Researched Christmas: You can’t tell the story of the birth of Jesus without telling the story of impossible problems, political intrigue and a great ancient promise being fulfilled among unsuspecting people. It’s a hope so real and solid and explains why this amazing story of Christmas never gets old and will not pass away. In this 10-message Christmas series, Dr. John Neufeld unpacks the first two chapters of the book of Luke.

In times of waiting, it can be hard to see God's hand at work. The story of Zechariah and Elizabeth reminds us that God's timing is perfect, even when it feels delayed. Dr. John Neufeld unpacks how their faithfulness in the face of disappointment led to the miraculous announcement of John the Baptist's birth, showing God's power to bring hope and purpose out of seeming hopelessness. A Well-Researched Christmas: You can’t tell the story of the birth of Jesus without telling the story of impossible problems, political intrigue and a great ancient promise being fulfilled among unsuspecting people. It’s a hope so real and solid and explains why this amazing story of Christmas never gets old and will not pass away. In this 10-message Christmas series, Dr. John Neufeld unpacks the first two chapters of the book of Luke.

Dr. John Neufeld unpacks the historic roots of the Christmas story, beginning with Zechariah and Elizabeth. Exploring the political and prophetic landscape of the time, he highlights God's fulfillment of ancient promises and the miraculous birth of John the Baptist. Dive into this fascinating account of how God prepared the way for the Messiah. A Well-Researched Christmas: You can’t tell the story of the birth of Jesus without telling the story of impossible problems, political intrigue and a great ancient promise being fulfilled among unsuspecting people. It’s a hope so real and solid and explains why this amazing story of Christmas never gets old and will not pass away. In this 10-message Christmas series, Dr. John Neufeld unpacks the first two chapters of the book of Luke.