Anchored by the Word

Kingdom Cooperation

In this episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin reflects on the lives and ministries of two theological giants—R.C. Sproul and John MacArthur—who, despite their significant doctrinal differences, modeled faithful cooperation for the sake of the gospel. Pastor Justin discusses how these men courageously stood against cultural compromise while maintaining theological integrity and mutual respect across denominational lines.

Using their example, the episode explores how Christians today can wisely discern when and how to partner with others in gospel work. Pastor Justin explains the importance of distinguishing between primary, secondary, and tertiary doctrines, encouraging believers to pursue unity in the essentials while showing humility and charity in other areas.

Listeners are reminded that the ultimate goal isn’t the expansion of personal platforms or denominational lines, but the advancement of God’s kingdom. Whether you're in the pulpit or the pew, this conversation offers both challenge and encouragement for gospel cooperation in an increasingly divided and secular culture.

Christians and Israel

In this important and timely episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin steps outside our series on favorite bible verses to tackle a topic that’s both theologically rich and culturally relevant: How should Christians think about Israel?

With Israel frequently in the headlines—from the October 7th Hamas attack to ongoing tensions with Iran—many believers are asking where the modern nation of Israel fits into God’s redemptive plan. Pastor Justin dives deep into Scripture to answer two key questions:

1. Who is the true Israel of God?

2. How should Christians respond to the current geopolitical nation of Israel?

Rooted in passages like Romans 9–11, Galatians 3, and Ephesians 2, this episode explores the biblical doctrine of election, the fulfillment of God's promises in Christ, and the unity of Jews and Gentiles in the family of God. You'll hear a clear call to gospel clarity, faithful evangelism, and prayer for the salvation of all people—Jews and Gentiles alike.

Whether you're new to this discussion or have long wrestled with these questions, this episode will challenge, equip, and encourage you to think biblically—not politically—about Israel.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join the conversation in the comments—respectfully and with Scripture in hand!

Unceasing Prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

In this episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin continues our series on favorite Bible verses by diving into one of Paul’s most practical commands: “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). He explores the historical and spiritual context of Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians, a church encouraged to stand strong in faith and love while eagerly anticipating Christ’s return. What did Paul really mean by “pray without ceasing”? How do we live that out today in a world full of distractions, anxiety, and spiritual warfare?

He also unpacks Paul’s final instructions in 1 Thessalonians 5—covering everything from honoring church leaders, avoiding evil, and testing prophecies to keeping our hearts ready for worship. This episode isn’t just about understanding a verse; it’s about living it. You’ll hear practical tips on growing in Bible study, praying with purpose, discerning biblical teaching, and preparing your heart each week to truly worship God.

If you’re longing to go deeper in your walk with Christ, this episode will challenge and encourage you. Be sure to share it with a friend, leave a comment on where you’re listening from, and let us know how Anchored by the Word is helping you grow!

The Servant of God-Isaiah 49:1-7 (feat. Josh Davis)

In this weeks episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin is joined by occasional guest and full time tech guru Josh Davis to discuss one of Josh's new favorite passages of scripture, Isaiah 49:1-7. They explore the powerful vision of Jesus as the Servant of God, prophesied in Isaiah and fulfilled in His earthly mission. From before His birth, God appointed Christ to accomplish salvation through the power of His Word. Though His path included moments of apparent failure and rejection, the Servant’s mission was guaranteed by God’s sovereign plan—to bring restoration not only to Israel, but salvation to all nations. Pastor Justin and Josh examine how Jesus, the true fulfillment of Israel’s calling, succeeded where others faltered, ultimately becoming the light for the Gentiles.

But this story doesn't end with Christ alone. As those united with Him, we are now called to share in His mission to be a light to the world. Drawing from Acts 13:47, we’ll discuss what it means for believers today to carry the light of Christ to the ends of the earth, even in the face of discouragement. This episode encourages listeners to trust in God’s unshakable plan and to embrace the global, redemptive work He is doing through His people.

Prayer Over Panic

In this episode of Anchored by the Word, we continue our listener-submitted series on favorite Bible verses, focusing on Philippians 4:6—“Do not be anxious about anything…” Pastor Justin explores the historical and biblical context of Paul's letter to the Philippians, written from prison to a church facing internal conflict. He explains how understanding the full context of verses is crucial to faithful interpretation, emphasizing the importance of unity in the church, forgiveness among believers, and the dangers of misapplying scripture without context.

The episode offers practical application on dealing with anxiety and disunity, highlighting prayer as the antidote to worry and a reflection of our trust in God. Listeners are encouraged to use anxiety as a prompt to seek God in prayer with urgency and thanksgiving, to evaluate the voices they’re listening to, and to guard against being ruled by emotion rather than truth. Through heartfelt teaching, he reminds us that gospel-centered living includes forgiving freely, striving for unity, and replacing worry with trust in God's faithfulness.

Victory in the Valley-Psalm 3

In this episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin continues our series of discussions on "favorite verses," walking us through the powerful truths found in Psalm 3, a psalm submitted by one of our listeners and born out of David’s darkest hours as he fled from his son, Absalom. Pastor Justin explores the raw emotions and deep trust expressed in these verses, showing how David turns fear into faith by anchoring his hope in God’s protection and deliverance. Through this rich exposition, listeners are invited to see how even in seasons of betrayal, anxiety, or defeat, God remains a shield around His people.

The heart of Psalm 3 is the bold declaration that "salvation belongs to the Lord." This truth offers believers unshakable confidence that victory doesn’t depend on our strength, but on God’s unfailing grace. Whether you're walking through personal trials or simply seeking encouragement in your faith, this episode reminds us that the same God who sustained David is the One who lifts our heads today. Tune in and be strengthened by the assurance that in every trial, our salvation—and our victory—comes from the Lord.

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.