Anchored by the Word

Favorite Verses-Philippians 1:6 (feat. Diana Likens)

In this weeks episode of Anchored by the Word, we explore the powerful truths behind Pastor Justin's favorite verse, Philippians 1:6. He is once again by his wife, Diana, as they discuss how this verse reminds us that no matter where we are in life, God is still working in and through us. We are not finished products, and that's a beautiful thing. Join us as we reflect on God's ongoing work in our hearts and the confidence we can have in His faithfulness. Be encouraged: He's not done with you yet.

For Such a Time as This (feat. Diana Likens)

In this week's episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin and Diana begin a series in which we dive into submitted "favorite verses" from the members of Westlake and our listeners. Today, they dive into Diana's favorite verse, Esther 4:14 to explore the profound truth of God's sovereignty.

While God doesn't need us to fulfill His plans because His plan will succeed with or without us, He graciously invites us to join Him and be a part of His work. Even if we disobey Him and we miss out on the blessing, purpose, and joy that come from obedience, His will won't be derailed.

As Justin and Diana discuss these magnificent truths, be encouraged to trust in the God who rules over all and be challenged to boldly obey God-not because He needs us, but because he lovingly includes us.

Creeds & Confessions (feat. Keith Foskey)

In this week's episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin is joined by tech Tsar Josh Davis to sit down with Dr. Keith Foskey for a deep diving discussion of Reformed Baptist theology. Together, they explore the rich heritage of historic Baptist confessions, the distinctive of Reformed Baptist doctrine, the foundational truths of covenant theology, and a discussion around avoiding sin in the Christian life.

Dr. Foskey shares insights into why confessional fidelity matters in today's church. Whether you are new to Reformed theology or a long time student of the historic Baptist confessions, this episode will encourage you in the faith once for all delivered to the saints.

Dr. Foskey's YouTube Channel

Dr. Foskey's Video on Pastors falling into sin (Filmed after this podcast)

Why Dr. Foskey's Church holds to the first London Confession

The New City Catechism

First London Confession (1646)

The Second London Confession (1689)

Kingdom through Covenant

The Distinctiveness of Baptist Covenant Theology

Chosen by God

The Holiness of God

Seeing Interruptions as Blessings (feat. Diana Likens)

In the final episode of Season 1 of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin is joined once more by Diana to discuss a truth that is often hard to embrace: sometimes God's greatest blessings come wrapped in disappointment.

When plans fall apart, it can often feel like failure-but what if it is divine redirection? In this episode, Justin and Diana explore biblical examples like Joseph, showing how God uses closed doors and unexpected turns to sovereignly guide us into something greater.

If you've ever felt frustrated by detours in your life, this conversation will offer encouragement and remind you that God's plan is always better than ours.

Weapons of Mass Distraction (feat. Diana Likens)

"Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Psalm 90:12 highlights the deep truth that our time is limited and how we use it matters. In today's fast paced world, however, distractions are constantly stealing our attention, crowding our hearts, and distracting us from the intentional, God-centered life we are called to. In this week's episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin is joined once more by his wife, Diana, to face the problem so many of us face: the struggle to stay spiritually focused despite everyday noise.

Together, they explore how to identify the subtle ways distractions derail our walk with God and how Scripture offers a path back to clarity and purpose. From digital interruptions to internal anxieties, we uncover biblical strategies for redirecting our focus and living wisely in light of eternity.

Biblical Theology feat. Chris Belknap

In this week's episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin is joined once more by Director of Family Ministries Chris Belknap to discuss the other major way to study theology: Biblical Theology.

In contrast with the Systematic Theology we looked at last week, Biblical Theology looks at the major themes of the Bible and how the Old and New Testaments form one book with one message.

Systematic Theology feat. Chris Belknap

According to American Professor Kevin Vanhoozer, the goal of the Theologian "is to move beyond the acquisition of knowledge to its application in real life: in a word, to gain wisdom." But how does one study Theology?

What even IS Theology?

In this week's episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin is joined by Chris Belknap- Director of Family Ministries at Westlake-to begin a discussion of theology and its application in the Christian life by looking at the key points of the study of Systematic Theology

Biblical Worldview

Theologian and philosopher Francis Schaeffer once said "People function on the basis of their worldview more consistently than even they themselves may realize." This is because your worldview-fundamentally-is the vehicle by which you understand and make sense of the world. Your worldview determines how you view reality, interact with other people, and make decisions  while also determining your beliefs, values, and the choices you make.

The question, then, is this: "Is your worldview in line with the truth of scripture, or is it shaped by your own whims?"

In this weeks episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin dives into a discussion of the two main worldviews and the underlying presuppositions that lead to someone having one worldview or another.