*This weekly newsletter will share about the Bible Breakdown podcast, things about RLC, and my favorite things from around the web. My prayer is it will help you know God better.
Hello friends. Happy Saturday!
It’s mid-August, and for many people, that means back-to-school season, last-minute vacations, and the slow realization that summer is fading. But in Matthew 16, Jesus has something far more significant than class schedules or beach trips—He’s inviting us to answer the biggest question of all: “Who do you say I am?” It’s a moment of clarity that challenges us to move from casual association to bold confession.
🎧 My Favorite BibleBreakdown Episode This Week>>>
📚 Scripture. 💪
(Matthew 16:16) “Simon Peter replied, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’”
Observation: Peter has a shining moment of clarity—he sees Jesus not just as a good teacher, but as the Messiah, the Savior. Jesus affirms that this insight came from the Father and then speaks of building His Church on this rock-solid confession. But only moments later, Peter rebukes Jesus for talking about suffering, and Jesus rebukes him right back. This chapter swings from divine revelation to human weakness in a few verses, reminding us how quickly we can shift between clarity and confusion.
Application: Like Peter, I can have moments of bold faith and moments of foolish pride in the same breath. The key is to keep my eyes on Jesus—not trying to mold Him into my image, but letting Him reshape me with truth and grace. Today I need to return to the core question: Who is Jesus to me, and does my life reflect that answer?
Prayer: Jesus, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God. Forgive me when I try to lead instead of follow, when I want a Savior without a cross. Help me to trust You fully, even when it means letting go of my own ideas.
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✍️ My Blog.
Brandon Cannon
🤔 Question of the Week.
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🖤 My Favorite Links This Week.
📣 Sermon/Testimony. Matter of the Heart
Chris Hodges emphasizes unity in the church through authentic relationships, rooted in a transformed heart. His charismatic delivery and practical examples draw you into an invitation to live in a radically different community. Perfect for congregations seeking to build genuine connections.
🤔 Apologetics. Why Do Some People Believe All Religions Lead to the Same God? (Link)
The idea that truth is exclusive is deeply upsetting to many. We cherish the liberty to decide for ourselves what is true and what is not; at the same time, we demand that others be truthful to us. We tend to place more value on how we feel, or whether something works for us, than on whether it is actually true. What then are some of the reasons that have led many to conclude that all religions lead to the same God?
🤓 CS Lewis. C.S. Lewis on Christian Apologetics
This post distills Lewis’s 1945 lecture to Anglican clergy, emphasizing the importance of defending core apostolic Christianity—"the faith preached by Apostles...not ‘my religion.’" It’s a powerful reminder to separate personal opinions from essential doctrine and present Christianity as objective truth. Lewis’s call to clarity and courage in apologetics still challenges us today.
✍️ Going Deeper. How to Study the Bible: 7 Methods
Crossway walks through seven distinct approaches—like chapter analysis, topical digs, and character studies—with guidance on when to use each one. Each method includes concrete steps and Scripture examples for clarity. It’s a versatile toolkit to diversify and deepen your study practice.
✍️ Biblical Archeology. 10 Biblical Archaeology Stories of 2024
Christianity Today highlights the most striking discoveries of 2024—from shipwrecks to mosaics—that have informed our understanding of biblical eras. Each entry includes archaeological context and theological impact. It’s a great way to stay updated on the latest field developments.
📚 Book. The Good and Beautiful Bible Study (Volume 1)
A transformative guide to reading Scripture with fresh eyes, this study integrates spiritual formation with biblical literacy. Highly rated for helping readers move from head knowledge to heart transformation. Great for individuals, small groups, and church settings.
🕺 Biblical Manhood.Why Biblical Manhood Really Matters in Today’s World (Link)
John Piper lays out how biblical manhood shapes fathers, husbands, and emerging leaders in contrast to both rigid patriarchy and self-centered modernity. He emphasizes sacrificial love over authority and encourages men to cultivate spiritual depth. It’s a timely reminder that manhood isn’t about dominance—it’s about service and godly example.
🎧 Song of the Week. Can’t Steal My Joy – Josiah Queen ft. Brandon Lake
I LOVE THIS SONG. A vibrant, joyful anthem affirming that faith in God sustains us through hardship, reaching #11 on Christian charts. Its upbeat melody and collaborative energy make it a celebration of resilience.
✍️ Quote of the Week That Makes You Think
“The proper role of apologetics is to show that the Christian worldview is reasonable and worthy of belief." —Reasonable Faith
🤪 Dad Joke of the week
Why can’t you hear a pterodactyl go to the bathroom?
Because the “P” is silent.
As we wrap up the summer and head into a season of new schedules and fresh starts, Matthew 16 invites us to center our identity in Christ, not our busyness. When we know who Jesus is, everything else comes into focus.
And let’s be honest—Peter gives all of us hope. If Jesus could build the Church with someone who got an “A” and an “F” in the same chapter, there’s still room for us on the team.
🤪 Meme of the week
