Avizandum with Pastor John Munro

"Original Sin" is the title of the recent bestseller by Jake Tapper and Alex Thompson. They write in terms of an "original sin" related to politics, but there is a deeper concept of original sin that we either accept or reject based on our view of human nature. What is the evidence? What does the Bible say?

Despite all kinds of advancements, we live in an age of anxiety. There is constant discussion about the causes and the statistics, but what struggles are at the root of anxiety? And why does the Christian viewpoint make such a difference?

Simple acts of hospitality can be life-changing and opportunities for God to work in your life and the lives of others. Join John as he shares personal memories about the nature and impact of hospitality.

Do you attend church regularly? Is it a priority or an occasional option if you feel like it? Join John as he revisits the biblical purpose for the local church and how our views of church and church attendance have changed.

AI as a new technology has many applications, including as a tool in ministry. But what are the considerations for AI in preaching as pastors bring messages from God's Word? Join John as he reflects on the issues and implications.

How do you feel about solitude? We live in a noisy world where it can be difficult to unplug and find a quiet time to reflect, enjoy the sounds of nature, and commune with God. Today take a break from the hectic pace of life and reflect on the beauty and value of being still and alone.

In Scripture, followers of Christ are encouraged to rejoice, even in the midst of suffering and trials. How is this possible? Be encouraged as John explains and shares individual examples to help us understand how to "count it all joy."

Based on the work of 16th-century theologian John Calvin, Calvinism often centers on the identity and implications of "the elect" as noted in Scripture. Some distinctions held by "Neo-Calvinists" can inadvertently confuse or divide--so what are followers of Christ to do?

All of us need good friends. But making or choosing good friends can be difficult. And being a good friend can be even harder! Join John as he reflects on the joys and risks of friendship, and how to be and make godly friends.

All of us want the power of God to be evident in our lives. But how is this accomplished? John discusses A.W. Tozer’s Five Vows for Spiritual Power as a convicting and helpful tool in pursuing spiritual growth.

Marriage is a special and sacred relationship because it was designed by God. And it’s important for those contemplating marriage (even those who have been married before) to understand the biblical nature of this important covenant, often through premarital counseling.

Every day we are all faced with trials, struggles, and suffering. But Scripture calls for followers of Jesus Christ to respond to these times of life with a different perspective. We are people of faith, people of hope. So how does this change things?

Why is preaching so important? What's different about biblical preaching vs. regular teaching or other modes of communication? And why is it so important to our spiritual growth?

How does someone read the Bible? How do you start? What should you expect? Why is it so important? Whether you're a new believer or longtime follower of Christ, go back to basics on reading God's Word!

Apparently, there are more and more standing ovations in our society. Isn't that interesting? What does this tell us about ourselves? And what are the implications for clapping and ovations in worship services? Join John for his reflections on this intriguing aspect of human behavior.

Why is the idea of people gathering in person so important to the community of believers? As we celebrate the recent opening of Calvary's new cafe, The Gathering, John comments on the significance of connecting in person vs. the modern tendency to isolate ourselves.

In the dark times of life, it can be difficult to trust that God is still with us and still for us. Join John as he discusses this hard truth and offers personal encouragement from one of his favorite hymns.

Rumors, gossip, and bizarre stories increasingly abound online. What is it about us that wants to believe the worst about people? John looks at the principles of natural justice included in the Mosaic Law and in Roman law which help us pursue and live by truth.

Have you ever read Pilgrim's Progress? It's a book (an allegory) by John Bunyan which portrays the joys and struggles of Christian, a pilgrim. In these adventures, we see many truths of Scripture illustrated in helpful ways.