Best Ponder UMC Podcasts (2025)

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An Advent Revelation 41:55

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4h ago41:55

41:55

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison discuss the meaning of Advent, focusing on the birth narrative of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Matthew. They explore the cultural context of marriage during Jesus's time, the prophecy from Isaiah 7:14 concerning the virgin birth, and the significanc…

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From Lament to Thanksgiving: Psalm 28 Explored 39:34

20h ago39:34

39:34

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison discuss Psalm 28 in the context of Thanksgiving. They examine how King David's lament about his tumultuous life transitions into a prayer of gratitude, reflecting his reassurance of salvation. They delve into the various categories of Psalms, the context…

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S17 Ep. 05 Final Thoughts on Jude: Guidance and Hope" 22:24

16d ago22:24

22:24

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison conclude their study of the Book of Jude, focusing on verses 17-25 from the New Living Translation. They discuss Jude's emphasis on the warnings and predictions of the apostles, the presence of scoffers in the last times, and the need for Christia…

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S17 Ep. 04 Orthodoxy vs. Antinomianism: A Deep Dive 32:55

15d ago32:55

32:55

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison explore Jude verses 8-16 from the New Living Translation. They discuss how false teachings, particularly those of the antinomians advocating for licentious behavior, are criticized and warned against by Jude. Drawing parallels from biblical figures like …

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S17 Ep. 03 The Consequences of Disobedience 34:54

1M ago34:54

34:54

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison dive deeper into the Book of Jude, specifically covering verses 3 through 7. They discuss Jude's urgent shift from writing about salvation to addressing the issue of antinomianism—wrongly believing that grace allows for immoral living. Key examples inclu…

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S17 Ep. 02 Understanding Jude: A Study of Authorship and Antinomianism 49:24

1M ago49:24

49:24

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible', co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison introduce the epistle of Jude. They cover the authorship controversy, specifically addressing who Jude is and the historical context of the letter, including its association with the brother of Jesus, James. They also delve into the dating of the …

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S17 Ep. 01: Katie Bristow on Prayer 37:55

1M ago37:55

37:55

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible', co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison welcome guest speaker Katie Bristow for Laity Sunday. Katie introduces the week's sermon, which focuses on prayer and is based on Psalm 17:1. She aims to clear up common misconceptions about prayer, emphasizing that prayer is a personal conversation with…

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S16 Ep 07: 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18 46:19

1M ago46:19

46:19

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison discuss the final verses of Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 3:16-18). The episode delves into the importance of Paul's unique closing, his invocation of peace, and the deeper theological implications of his words. They expl…

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S16 Ep. 06: 2 Thessalonians 3:6–15 38:07

2M ago38:07

38:07

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison delve into 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15. They explore Paul's strong commands for believers to avoid idle lives, emphasizing the importance of work. The discussion highlights Paul's uncommon authoritative tone, his stance on excommunication, and the diff…

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S16 Ep. 05: 2 Thessalonians 3:1–5 40:27

2M ago40:27

40:27

Send us a text In this episode of Pondering the Bible, co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison discuss 2 Thessalonians, Chapter 3, Verses 1-5. The focus is on Paul's request for prayers to spread the Lord's message and to be protected from wicked and evil people. They emphasize that suffering is a part of life for Christians, but faith in Chr…

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S16 Ep. 04: 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 49:36

2M ago49:36

49:36

Send us a text In this episode of Pondering the Bible, co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison delve into the second chapter of Second Thessalonians, focusing on verses 13-17. They explore the controversial nature of these verses by discussing different theological interpretations from Roman Catholicism, Calvinism, and Wesleyan-Arminianism. Through …

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S16 Ep.03: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 44:00

3M ago44:00

44:00

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible', co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison discuss the first half of Chapter 2 from the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians. They cover verses 1-12, aiming to clarify details about the second coming of Christ. Rocky explains Paul's rare approach of providing specific signs and markers indi…

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S15 Ep 02: 2 Thessalonians 1:3-12 43:41

3M ago43:41

43:41

Send us a text In this milestone 200th episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison delve into 2 Thessalonians, Chapter 1, verses 3-12. They discuss the context of Paul's letter to the Thessalonian church, addressing their suffering and encouraging steadfast faith amidst persecution. The hosts highlight the significance …

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S16 Ep. 01 2 Thessalonians 1:102 43:51

3M ago43:51

43:51

Send us a text This season, we begin our exploration of 2 Thessalonians. We provide background information about Paul, Silas, and Timothy—and the nature of Paul's second missionary journey. The discussion covers the significance of Thessalonica's geographical and economic status, why Paul decided to write this letter, and the challenges the early C…

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S15 Ep. 09 Malachi 4:1-6 47:27

3M ago47:27

47:27

Send us a text This week co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison celebrate their four-year anniversary of podcasting. They review intriguing statistics about their podcast's reach and popularity. The episode then delves into Malachi Chapter 4 from the Bible, discussing the notions of judgment, the 'Day of the Lord,' and the contrasting fires …

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S15 Ep. 08 Malachi 3:13-18 39:47

4M ago39:47

39:47

Send us a text In this episode, we explore the dual perspectives in these verses, highlighting the skepticism of some Israelites who question the value of serving God, contrasted with the faith of others who share their 'God moments' and write them in a 'Scroll of Remembrance.' The discussion concludes with a reminder of the ultimate judgment and t…

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S15 Ep. 07 Malachi 3:6-12 40:34

4M ago40:34

40:34

Send us a text In this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison discuss Malachi 3:6-12, focusing on God's unchanging nature and the covenant with the descendants of Jacob. The episode highlights the importance of tithes and offerings, explaining how neglecting these duties leads to a strained relationship with God. R…

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S15 Ep. 06 Malachi 3:1-5 37:21

4M ago37:21

37:21

Send us a text Rocky discusses the concept of prophetic telescoping, where prophecy can focus on different future events. The discussion identifies the messenger mentioned in the text as both Elijah and John the Baptist, depending on one's faith perspective. They explore Jesus' first coming (Parousia) and the new covenant he brings, as well as the …

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S15 Ep. 05 Malachi 2:10–17 45:43

4M ago45:43

45:43

Send us a text The week, co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison discuss Malachi Chapter 2, verses 10-17, focusing on the themes of divorce and covenant. They explore God's anger towards the unfaithfulness of the men of Jerusalem, who have divorced their Jewish wives to marry pagan women, thus breaking their covenant with God. The discussion …

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S15 Ep. 04 Malachi 2:1–9 40:57

5M ago40:57

40:57

Send us a text Rocky returns this week, and we discuss the directives given to the priests and the severe consequences God threatens due to the priests' failure to honor Him and properly instruct the people. The conversation addresses the covenant between God and the Levites, the importance of teaching reverence, and the repercussions of neglecting…

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S15 Ep. 03 Ken Corkins Luke 10:25-37 10:16

5M ago10:16

10:16

Send us a text This week, Rocky was out of town, so we were unable to record an episode. Ken was the Lay Speaker this week. Ken chose the story of the Good Samaritan for his message. The sermon for this episode it titled "What Must We Do?" and can be found at pondergmc.org/ministries/sermons NEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find us at www.pondergmc.org. …

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S15 Ep. 02 Malachi 1:6-14 39:56

5M ago39:56

39:56

Send us a text In this latest episode of "Pondering the Bible," Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison delve into chapter one of Malachi, focusing on verses 6-14. The discussion explores God's displeasure with the priests and people of Israel, who have been offering defiled and substandard sacrifices. The episode highlights the significance of offeri…

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S15 Ep. 01 Malachi 1:1-5 35:38

5M ago35:38

35:38

Send us a text In this episode of "Pondering the Bible," co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison kick off Season 15 by discussing the Book of Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament. They explore the historical and cultural context surrounding Malachi, debating whether Malachi was a prophet, an angel, or a pseudonym for a priest. The episode fea…

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S14 Ep. 06 John 16:12-15 33:50

6M ago33:50

33:50

Send us a text Sunday June 15 2025 is Trinity Sunday. This week we discuss the significance of Trinity Sunday Ricky focuses on the role of the Holy Spirit in maintaining orthodoxy. Rocky explains how the Holy Spirit continues Jesus's mission by revealing the true teachings of God and ensuring consistency in theology. They discuss various functions …

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S14 Ep. 05 Jonah 3:10-4:11 41:50

6M ago41:50

41:50

Send us a text In this episode of "Pondering the Bible," we discuss Jonah 3:10 and chapter 4. They explore Jonah's anger at God's mercy towards the city of Nineveh and the lessons God teaches Jonah through a series of miraculous events involving a plant, a worm, and a scorching wind. They also delve into the theological implications of God's compas…

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S14_Ep 04 Jonah 3:1-10 39:03

6M ago39:03

39:03

Send us a text This week we cover Jonah chapter 3, verses 1-10. We discuss God's command for Jonah to deliver His message to Nineveh, detailing Jonah's journey, the city's immense size, and the significance of Jonah's proclamation. The episode examines the reaction of Nineveh's people and their king, who heed Jonah's warning, fast, and repent. They…

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S14 Ep 03 Jonah 1:15-2:10 42:59

6M ago42:59

42:59

Send us a text This week we continue our exploration of the book of Jonah. We delve into the second half of chapter one and all of chapter two. The conversation touches on the miraculous calming of the sea after Jonah is thrown overboard, the symbolic significance of Jonah's three days inside the great fish, and how this experience parallels Jesus'…

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S14 Ep. 02 Jonah 1:1-15 44:45

7M ago44:45

44:45

Send us a text This episode of "Pondering the Bible," Ken and Rocky delves into the first chapter of the book of Jonah. The hosts discuss Jonah's call from God to go to Nineveh, his decision to flee in the opposite direction, and the ensuing storm that threatens the ship he boards. They explore the significance of Jonah's actions, the response of t…

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S14 Ep. 01 Jonah 1:1-2 38:06

7M ago38:06

38:06

Send us a text Ken and Rocky reunite to kick off Season 14. They discuss their hiatus, touching on personal matters such as Rocky’s mother's injury. The main topic dives into the Old Testament book of Jonah. The hosts outline differing views on the historical and allegorical interpretations of Jonah's story, especially the controversial aspect of t…

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S13 Ep. 20 Luke 19:28-40 43:40

8M ago43:40

43:40

Send us a text This week we discuss the events and significance of Palm Sunday, focusing on the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem as described in Luke 19:28-44. We discuss into the prophetic implications of Jesus riding an unridden donkey, the symbolism of the donkey's colt, and the fulfillment of Zechariah's prophecy. They also explore the l…

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S13 Ep. 19 Luke 8:16-18 25:31

8M ago25:31

25:31

Send us a text This week we discuss Luke 8:16-18, the Parable of the Lamp. We explore three different interpretations of the verses, emphasizing the importance of spreading the gospel message. The conversation delves into how every Christian has a responsibility to share their faith, akin to not hiding a lamp under a bed but placing it where it can…

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S13 Ep. 18 Luke 8:4-15 43:06

8M ago43:06

43:06

Send us a text In this episode of "Pondering the Bible," co-hosts Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison delve into the Parable of the Sower from Luke 8:4-15. Despite battling a cold, Pastor Rocky enthusiastically discusses different types of soil and their symbolism, explaining how our decisions and circumstances influence our receptivity to God's w…

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S13 Ep.17 Luke 8:1-3 34:23

8M ago34:23

34:23

Send us a text In this episode of "Pondering the Bible," co-host Ken Corkins and Pastor Rocky Ellison return from a break and dive back into their exploration of the Gospel of Luke, specifically Chapter 8, verses 1-3. The discussion highlights the significance of these verses, emphasizing the radical and controversial nature of Jesus' ministry, inc…

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S13 Ep.16 Alan Taliaferro 39:32

9M ago39:32

39:32

Send us a text In this episode of "Pondering the Bible," co-host Ken Corkins welcomes guest Alan Taliaferro, filling in for regular host Rocky who is on vacation. The duo discusses the theme of patience, inspired by Alan's upcoming sermon based on Luke 13:1-9. They explore the significance of patience in faith and everyday life, and how impatience …

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S13 Ep 15 Tori Dickens and Rocky vacation 24:53

9M ago24:53

24:53

Send us a text This week played out a bit differently than we thought at the end of last week's episode. First, as you know, Rocky is on vacation, and Ms. Tori Dickens will be the Lay Speaker on Sunday. Secondly, Rocky and I usually record on Wednesday nights and that's where things went sideways. Wednesday was Ash Wednesday. Rather than record the…

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S13 Ep. 14 Luke 9:28-36 43:02

9M ago43:02

43:02

Send us a text This Sunday is Transfiguration Sunday, so we jump ahead in the Gospel of Luke to Chapter 9:28-36 to cover the story as reported by Luke. Next Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, so there will be no podcast with Tori Dickens. The week of March 16th, Lay Speaker Allan Taliaferro will bring the message, so we will record a podcast that week. Th…

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S13 Ep. 13 Kristin Corkins Ephesians 5:25-33 37:39

9M ago37:39

37:39

Send us a text This week, Kristin Corkins delivers the sermon as Rocky is attending a conference. Working from Ephesians 5:25-33, Kristin's sermon focuses on the metaphor of marriage to describe Christ's relationship with the church, drawing parallels with traditional marital vows, and discusses the concepts of love, honor, cherish, and the trials …

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S13 Ep. 12 Luke 7:36-50 41:45

10M ago41:45

41:45

Send us a text The passage recounts the story of a sinful woman who anoints Jesus' feet with expensive perfume at a Pharisee's dinner. Rocky explains the significance of dining customs and the parable Jesus tells about forgiving debts. The conversation highlights the Pharisee's hypocrisy, Jesus’ ability to forgive sins, and the woman’s profound act…

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S13 Ep 11 Luke 7:30-35 37:06

10M ago37:06

37:06

Send us a text The episode examines the rejection of John the Baptist and Jesus by the Pharisees and experts in religious law, comparing corrupt church officials to bullies in a marketplace. They address how Jesus condemned these leaders for their hypocrisy and focus on money rather than spiritual guidance. The conversation provides historical and …

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S13 Ep. 10 Luke 7:11-17 33:47

10M ago33:47

33:47

Send us a text This week we continue through Luke, discussing the message and actions of John the Baptist and Jesus. The conversation focuses on John’s imprisonment and his challenge to Jesus to demonstrate his messianic role. Rocky explains how Jesus’ response, referencing the prophecies of Isaiah, clarifies his mission of salvation and healing ra…

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S13 Ep.09 Luke 7:11-17 46:19

10M ago46:19

46:19

Send us a text This week we delve into the miracle where Jesus revives a widow's only son, emphasizing the compassion Jesus shows and his unprecedented action of touching the stretcher of a dead person, which would be seen as unclean. They explain the cultural and religious significance of death and resurrection during those times and highlight tha…

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S13 Ep. 08 Luke 7:1–10 42:41

11M ago42:41

42:41

Send us a text This week we jump forward in the book of Luke to Chapter 7, verses 1-10,the story of the Roman Centurion's faith in Jesus. They discuss the importance of understanding the life and ministry of Jesus verse by verse, contrasting this with the lectionary approach of jumping between scriptures. The episode delves into the Centurion's bac…

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S13 ep. 07 Luke 3:15-22 36:03

11M ago36:03

36:03

Send us a text In this Episode, Ken and Rocky discuss the significance of the Baptism of Jesus as described in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 3, verses 15-22. The discussion covers John the Baptist's role in preparing the way for Jesus and addresses misconceptions about John being the Messiah. They explore John's proclamation of Jesus' coming and the …

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S13 Ep. 06 Luke 2:21-35 39:18

11M ago39:18

39:18

Send us a text . In this episode we discuss the significance of Jesus' circumcision, naming, and his parents' adherence to Mosaic Law, highlighting Joseph's unique involvement. The episode features Simeon's prophecy, emphasizing Jesus' role as the Messiah for all people, not just Jews, and the profound implications for Mary. Key points include the …

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S13 Ep. 05 Luke 2:8–15 17:25

11M ago17:25

17:25

Send us a text Ken messed up this week and forgot we rescheduled our recording session due to Christmas. This episode is Rocky's sermon. The sermon for this Episode is titled "Dirty Jobs" and can be heard at pondergmc.org/ministries/sermons NEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find us at www.pondergmc.org. Feedback is welcome: [email protected] Music…

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S13 Ep.4 Luke 2:1-7 37:08

11M ago37:08

37:08

Send us a text **Re-Uploaded** In this episode, Rocky and Ken explore the historical and cultural context of the Roman census decreed by Caesar Augustus and its implications for Mary and Joseph. They address key questions about Augustus's motivations, the logistical and ethical dilemmas faced by the couple, and the significance of the census in ful…

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S13 Ep. 03 Luke 1:57–66 40:36

12M ago40:36

40:36

Send us a text This week we delve into the story of the birth and circumcision of John the Baptist from Luke 1:57-66. Rocky and Ken emphasize the cultural and religious traditions of the time, including the importance of circumcision and the naming process. The episode also explores the speculation surrounding how Elizabeth knew the name John and t…

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S13 Ep 20 Luke 1:26-38 40:18

12M ago40:18

40:18

Send us a text This week Ken and Rocky focus on the angel Gabriel's annunciation to Mary about the miraculous conception of Jesus. The discussion contrasts this event with Gabriel's previous announcement to Zechariah about the birth of John the Baptist. Ken and Rocky explore Mary's reactions, the significance of her virginity, and the differences b…

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S13 Ep. 01 Luke 1:5-25 41:47

1y ago41:47

41:47

Send us a text We start season 13 by delving into the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke. The discussion centers on the priest Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth, who are both descendants of Aaron. The narrative unfolds the divine announcement by the angel Gabriel to Zechariah that Elizabeth will bear a son named John, who will later be known as Joh…

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S12 Ep 12 1 John 5:13-21 26:48

1y ago26:48

26:48

Send us a text In this final episode, we delve into the final chapter of 1 John, specifically focusing on chapter 5, verses 13 through 21. We discuss John's teachings on the assurance of eternal life for believers, the importance of praying according to God's will, and the distinction between sins leading to death and those that do not. Rocky clari…