Church Words

About Church Words

“Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. “Church Words” is a podcast which explores the meanings behind the words often used in church settings. If you’re like me, you may have grown up in a protestant church and heard these words throughout your life, but also like me, never took the time to completely understand their meanings. You also may be new to the Christian Faith and I hope this podcast helps to bridge the divide between understanding and strengthening your relationship with God.

Publisher

Thomas Warner Miller

Category

religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

30 Oct 2024

Latest episode

5 Mar 2025

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   5 Mar 2025

   The Bible

   Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. If you’re like me, you may have grown up in a protestant church and heard these words throughout your life, but also like me, never took the time to completely understand their meanings. Or you may be new to the Christian Faith and I hope this podcast helps to bridge the divide between understanding and strengthening your relationship with God. Today, we’re talking about the “Bible” When I was a child, I loved it when we bought cereal, or Cracker Jacks because they often came with a prize. I recall on occasions finding one of those plastic, red, transparent decoder films. Sometimes they were fashioned into something resembling a magnifying glass. From here, you could take that red film and place it over a specially printed paper, and read special coded text. The way it worked is the ink had a red tint mixed in with blue or black ink. The red tint of the viewer would mask the red ink allowing the blue or black ink to appear revealing text. I say all of this for a reason. As protestant Christians, we hold the Bible in high regard. We do so because just like the special red film I referred to above, the Bible acts as our filter. The Bible helps us to separate our own desires and to know if they are aligned with God. In other words, it’s our blueprint to understanding the attributes, behavior and will of God. I mention this because we’ve often been accused of placing the Bible higher than God, and this is simply not the case. I’ve heard it said “God told me to do this or that.”, and He may very well have, but does it match up against the patterns we see in the Bible? I once had an acquaintance tell me their son said “God told me to leave my wife, and to go on the road and preach.” He ended up leaving his wife, meeting another woman, and having a baby with her. Would God tell a man or woman to leave their spouse? The patterns of the Bible along with what has been expressed as his desire would say no. But how often has someone justified an action because “God told me to do it.”? We need to see the Bible as a guide. Overall, the Bible is the framework of understanding the heart of God. Yes, God speaks to us, but it’s important to know He’s never going to give us instructions which would run counter to Biblical teachings. If we didn’t have the Bible we would be relying on feelings instead of truth, and if we didn’t have the Bible we wouldn’t understand the simple formula on becoming a Christian. It’s often asked if we should take every incident and story from the Bible as fact. Was the Earth really created in seven days? Did God really flood the Earth? Did time really stop? If you’re a Christian, you believe Jesus died and came back from the dead. How is it difficult to take the Bible at face value? As a youth I often tried justifying answers like “Well, a day is an eon to God.”, or “This story was symbolism.” When you do that you’re on a slippery slope, because then what will you choose to believe? By what standard are you using to justify your answers? In the end, as a Christian, whether you believe the Earth was created in 7-days or millions of years it won’t stop you from entering Heaven. Perhaps we can ask God when we get there? For more insight into the validity of the Bible, I suggest two books. One is titled “More Than A Carpenter” by Josh McDowell and the other “Gospel Reset: Salvation Made Relevant” by Ken Ham. Both of these books do a phenomenal job of supporting the foundational principles of our faith. “The Bible”, on it’s own has no spiritual relevance if you do not know Christ, but it’s also through the Bible that we understand how to become a Christian. I encourage you to become a Christian by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me).

2. 

   26 Feb 2025

   Love

   Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. If you’re like me, you may have grown up in a protestant church and heard these words throughout your life, but also like me, never took the time to completely understand their meanings. Or you may be new to the Christian Faith and I hope this podcast helps to bridge the divide between understanding and strengthening your relationship with God. Today, we’re talking about “Love”. Merriam Webster has many definitions for love, so I’m just going to mention the first three entries. strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties attraction based on sexual desire : affection and tenderness felt by lovers affection based on admiration, benevolence, or common interests And then it continues with additional variations. I think it’s safe to say, humans make the word love complicated. 1 Corinthians 13:4 says: 4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, 6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. For the Greeks,, “Love” has multiple variations. Of the ones I could readily find, They are “agape”, “phileo” or “philia”, “eros”, “storge”, “ludus”, and “pragma”, with likely a few others I couldn’t readily find. Here’s a quick overview of each word. “Agape” love means a selfless, unconditional, and sacrificial love that prioritizes the well-being of others. This is the most discussed type of love in the New Testament. A love for one another. “Phileo” or “Philia” love generally means a love between friends.. In fact the city Philadelphia derives its name from this root as the city “of Brotherly love” “Eros” love is considered more sexual and is a love between a husband and wife. “Storge” love, which is newer for me personally refers to “familial” love. An example being a love for a child, siblings, and overall family. It does somewhat mimic “phileo” as discussed a moment ago. “Ludus” love, which is considered a bit more shallow. It’s a playful, in the moment type of love. Consider it like teasing, pulling pranks. And finally, “Pragma” love. This type of love is generally a part of a sense of duty, something you and others have invested in. Common goals, with your team. It can still apply to marriage and other forms of relationships because you’re committing to each other or the cause. In general, the most common examples we see in the Bible stem from “Agape”, “Phileo”, and “eros”, although you can draw from additional forms of love as you see Biblical relationships play out. Overall, love has many meanings. We often say “I love you” to ones we care about, but it is fascinating to see how each form of the word carries a different meaning depending on who you are saying it to. Remember, “we love, because He (God) first loved us”, You can’t have a full appreciation of love if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me).

3. 

   30 Jan 2025

   Miracles

   Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. If you’re like me, you may have grown up in a protestant church and heard these words throughout your life, but also like me, never took the time to completely understand their meanings. Or you may be new to the Christian Faith and I hope this podcast helps to bridge the divide between understanding and strengthening your relationship with God. 21 He is your praise and He is your God, who has done these great and awesome things for you which your eyes have seen. - Deuteronomy 10:21 (NASB 1995) Today, we’re discussing Miracles. Miracles are seen throughout the Bible, from as early as the creation of the Heavens and the Earth to everyday occurrences now. Miracles are those unexplainable, unexpected blessings we receive throughout our lives. Merriam Webster has three definitions for “miracle” one being “an extraordinary event manifesting divine intervention in human affairs.”, another as “an extremely outstanding or unusual event, thing, or accomplishment”, and finally a miracle can be defined as “a divinely natural phenomenon experienced humanly as the fulfillment of spiritual law”. My personal favorite is the first, as it refers to “divine intervention in human affairs”. Miracles are a way for God to reveal himself to humans and demonstrate his awesome power. The Bible is full of miracles, from the creation of the universe, life and everything to finding the exact amount of money needed for a struggling family to pay a bill. I use that last as a personal example. Miracles happen when all natural opportunities seem exhausted. It’s a way to say “but God” is intervening. Citing all examples would be too numerous to name, but a few highlights can include: Abram and Sarai being told they were having a baby in old age, which resulted in renaming them as Abraham and Sarah. It was a miracle when Moses was saved from death as a baby. It was a miracle when God parted the Red Sea for the Israelites to safely escape the Egyptian army. It was a miracle when God also fed and nourished the Israelites through manna and quail. It was a miracle when God allowed a donkey to talk (true story and often less discussed, look it up. It’s in Numbers 22-24.) It was a miracle when God allowed a shepherd boy to slay a Philistine giant named Goliath. It was a miracle when Jesus turned water into wine. It was a miracle when he healed a bleeding woman, gave sight to the blind, and allowed the lame to walk. It IS a miracle Jesus died for our sins allowing those who believe in him to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Miracle after miracle we see the presence of God in our lives. While we don’t see miracles performed in the same manner as they were in the time of Jesus and the apostles, they still happen through the prayer of believers. To expand on this, I’m referring to the very specific instantaneous transformations visible to the public. While God has the power to do so, this is generally not His method now. The miracles of when Jesus physically walked with us were specifically intended to make his powers known so they knew he was indeed of God. We see this in John 4:48 “So Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you simply will not believe.”” Miracles do still occur, you just need to pray and watch. Remember, “miracles” have no spiritual relevance if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me).

4. 

   15 Jan 2025

   Baptism

   Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. If you’re like me, you may have grown up in a protestant church and heard these words throughout your life, but also like me, never took the time to completely understand their meanings. Or you may be new to the Christian Faith and I hope this podcast helps to bridge the divide between understanding and strengthening your relationship with God. Today, we’re discussing Baptism. Physically, Baptism is described as being publicly emersed in water to symbolize Jesus washing away your sins by His death and being brought from death into new life through Him. It is a public profession of faith where you’re saying goodbye to your old life and hello to your new life as a Christian. It is an ordinance performed by a pastor of your local church. We first see the specific mention of the word “baptism” in the Book of Matthew, Chapter 3, Verses 1-6. “3 Now in those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, 2 “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” 3 For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet when he said, “The voice of one calling out in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, Make His paths straight!’” 4 Now John himself had a garment of camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 At that time Jerusalem was going out to him, and all Judea and all the region around the Jordan; 6 and they were being baptized by him in the Jordan River, as they confessed their sins.” Baptism is not what saves you, but it is an integral part as it pertains to being obedient. All throughout the New Testament we see examples of baptism following being “saved”. In Acts 8:26-40 we read the story of the Ethiopian eunuch. "26 But an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, “Get ready and go south to the road that descends from Jerusalem to Gaza.” (This is a desert road.) 27 So he got ready and went; and there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, who was in charge of all her treasure; and he had come to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and he was returning and sitting in his chariot, and was reading Isaiah the prophet. 29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, “Go up and join this chariot.” 30 Philip ran up and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet, and said, “Do you understand what you are reading?” 31 And he said, “Well, how could I, unless someone guides me?” And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 Now the passage of Scripture which he was reading was this: “He was led like a sheep to slaughter; And like a lamb that is silent before its shearer, So He does not open His mouth. 33 In humiliation His justice was taken away; Who will describe His generation? For His life is taken away from the earth.” 34 The eunuch answered Philip and said, “Please tell me, of whom does the prophet say this? Of himself, or of someone else?” 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture he preached Jesus to him. 36 As they went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch *said, “Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?” 38 And he ordered that the chariot stop; and they both went down into the water, Philip as well as the eunuch, and he baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; and the eunuch no longer saw him, but went on his way rejoicing.” Remember, “baptism” has no relevance if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me) Thanks for listening!

5. 

   8 Jan 2025

   Works

   Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. If you’re like me, you may have grown up in a protestant church and heard these words throughout your life, but also like me, never took the time to completely understand their meanings. Or you may be new to the Christian Faith and I hope this podcast helps to bridge the divide between understanding and strengthening your relationship with God. “You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.”, that’s from James 2:18 Faith and works are often two “Church Words” we see intertwined, but how are they related? Remember, “works” have no relevance if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me).

6. 

   1 Jan 2025

   Prayer

   Today, on this first day of 2025, we’re discussing one of the most basic words of our faith, “prayer”. If there is only thing you get from this show it’s this. Prayer is a conversation with God. It’s nothing intended to be flowery, over the top filled with "the" and "thou". It’s just a conversation. In fact, to help illustrate prayer, I am pulling from material I wrote for my families group called Wayfinders, a few years ago. As said in the beginning, prayer is a basic practice of our faith. In fact, in episode 1 you used prayer to ask Jesus into your heart. As you listen, if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this series and then consult with your local Bible-believing church. If you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me).

7. 

   25 Dec 2024

   Myths of Christmas

   Today we’re not discussing a word. Instead, we’re discussing “myths of Christmas”, these are commonly quoted or misplaced statements surrounding the birth of Jesus. Were there three wise men? Were they present at Jesus's birth? Was Jesus really born on December 25th? It’s been fun to work through this list, but don’t forget the spiritual relevance if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible-believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me).

8. 

   18 Dec 2024

   Advent

   Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. Today we’re discussing the word “Advent”. “Advent” is another word not specifically found in the Bible, but one we often use during this season. “Advent” is defined as “the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event” While advent is more commonly used in a church setting, remember, this word has no spiritual relevance if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible-believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me).

9. 

   11 Dec 2024

   Christmas

   Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. Today we’re discussing the word “Christmas”. The word Christmas comes from the Latin phrase, “Cristes Maesse” which means “Mass of Christ or Christ’s Mass”. Mass means “a celebration of the Eucharist” where Christians consume bread and drink wine referring to the Last Supper, that’s where the word Eucharist comes into play. Finally, the word Christ is derived from the word Khristos, which is Greek, and when translated from Hebrew we get the term “messiah”, which means anointed. The definitions are based on how the Catholic Church translated the root words from Hebrew, to Latin, to Greek, and finally to English. I’m out of breath. While society may place a different value on the word, “Christmas”, remember, this word has no spiritual relevance if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me).

10. 

    27 Nov 2024

    The Trinity

    Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. Today we’re discussing the “Trinity”. The Trinity is made up of God, the Father, God the Son, Jesus, and another person, the Holy Spirit. Remember, this word has no relevance if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible-believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me. Thanks for listening!

11. 

    20 Nov 2024

    Redeemed

    Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. What does it mean to be redeemed? According to Merriam Webster it means to “buy back” or to “to release from blame or debt”, actually Merriam Webster has many more definitions, and while they all have some relevance to this subject these two seems to be fit best. We can take comfort that we have been “redeemed”, released from blame because of our faith in Christ Jesus. Remember, this word has no relevance if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible-believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me). Thanks for listening!

12. 

    13 Nov 2024

    Sanctified

    Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. Today’s word is “Sanctified” which means to be “set apart for God’s purpose”, it means you’ve been separated out or you personally have separated something out for God such as your lifestyle. Are you living a “sanctified” life? Are you living in a way that is pleasing to God and not of the world? This word has no relevance if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consult with your local Bible believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me). Thanks for listening!

13. 

    6 Nov 2024

    Faith

    Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. Hebrews 11:1 states “'Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Today, as the verse indicated, we’re talking about “Faith”, another cornerstone word in our understanding of “church words”. Without faith, our trust in Jesus falters. Remember, this word has no relevance if you do not know Christ. I encourage you to do so by listening to episode 1 of this podcast series and then consulting with your local Bible-believing church. Also as always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me). Thanks for listening!

14. 

    30 Oct 2024

    Introduction - "Saved"

    Having grown up in a Baptist church I’d hear words like “Sanctified”, “Redeemed”, Trinity”, and while I’d have a vague understanding of their meaning, it wasn’t until I became an adult that I began really looking at their significance in my Christian faith. I also began thinking of how these terms could be confusing to a person new to Christianity. If I, a person raised in church had challenges, surely those less exposed to Christianity may have a more difficult time. After thinking of many possible titles I finally settled on the simplest, “Church Words”. Welcome to “Church Words”, understanding God, through definition. If you have any questions or comments please reach out by emailing churchwords@thomasmiller.me (mailto:churchwords@thomasmiller.me).

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