Conversations with Ray Martinez

Our daily lives as Christians, in our bodies and in our relationships with the world and our vocations, become the arena of worship. This is who we are and what we do in Christ. We are not to conform to the behavior and customs of this world but to be transformed. Transformation is a metamorphosis, a change from within. It involves having the mind of Christ, as Paul teaches that we do have the mind of Christ

We will be diving into the theme of "Not Fair but Just." Our scripture readings for today come from Isaiah 55:6-9, Philippians 1:12-14, 19-30, and Matthew 20:1-16.

In Isaiah 55:6-9, we are reminded to seek the Lord while He can be found, and to understand that His thoughts and ways are higher than ours. This serves as a foundation for our exploration of the concept of fairness and justice. Listen in for more details.

COMPASSION is a fundamental aspect of Jesus’s teaching. He emphasizes the importance of showing love and kindness towards others, especially those who are marginalized and vulnerable. In this podcast, we will explore what Jesus says about compassion and its significance in our lives. This study comes from my book, "The Teachings of Jesus".

Jesus Christ is often revered as a revolutionary figure in His approach toward women. He challenged the patriarchal norms of His time and elevated the status of women in society. 

In a day when women were considered second-class, Jesus shattered prejudices and elevated the status of women to unprecedented heights. That value equalization continued with His apostles.  In this podcast, we will explore what Jesus says about women and their role in His ministry.  Listen in about how women help changed the world.

Welcome to the podcast on Personal Evangelism with Dr. Jerry Root’s teaching. In today's episode, we will delve into the importance of putting our faith into action and sharing the good news of Christ with others. 

Our scripture for today is Philemon 6, which reminds us of the generosity that comes from our faith and the good things we have in Christ. Dr. Jerry Root emphasizes that the gift of evangelism is not reserved for a select few; it is for every believer. It is not a skill to be learned, but rather a natural outpouring of our faith.

Today we'll be discussing the various ballot issues that will shape the future of our beloved city. Fort Collins voters will be faced with several crucial decisions when they head to the polls in 2023. In this episode, we'll break down the ballot issues that you need to know about. Let's dive right in.

September 11, 2021 was a horrific day that none of us will forget, at least those who were around then. The history of this tragedy can never be forgotten. What we did in our community was to pull together and do what we could for the moment.

In Christianity, we say, “in the name of Jesus” is a common practice used in prayer and spiritual activities. This phrase is not just a set of words, but a declaration of faith and dependence on Jesus’s power and authority. In this podcast, we will explore why we are taught to say “in the name of Jesus” and the power it holds. Listen in for a deeper dive.

Embracing the concept of dying to ourselves may seem challenging, but it is through this surrender that we truly find life. It is in dying to our own desires that we discover the abundant life that Jesus promises.

Let us reflect on the call to die to ourselves and embrace God's plan. May we strive to set our minds on the things of God, surrendering our own will and desires. In doing so, we will experience the transformative power of God's love and find true life in Christ. Listen in for a deeper conversation.

Welcome to today's episode of "Understanding God's Plan." In our reading from Romans 11:1-10, we delve into the concept of the remnant and the hardened. We will explore the profound insights shared by the apostle Paul and the significance of these teachings in our lives today.

The passage highlights how the hardened individuals are deaf and blind to the Gospel, while the remnant represents those who faithfully follow God. We see this pattern throughout history, as even revered figures like Moses, Elijah, and Isaiah were sometimes received well and other times not so well by the people of Israel. Listen in to a deeper dive of conversation today.

Throughout Jesus' ministry, he encounters many people who are possessed by demons. In this podcast, we will explore what Jesus does about the demons. Jesus has the power and authority to cast out demons and heal those who were possessed. Notice that Jesus casts out demons throughout the Bible by merely using His words.  The spoken word is powerful .  Mark 11 says that if we just “say” to this mountain, be removed, it will happen.  Speaking the Word is a tool we often forget about. Listen in today for more take-a-ways. This podcast is from my book, "The Teachings of Jesus."

Jesus asks His disciples who people say He is. Peter, speaking on behalf of the disciples, declares Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God. This confession holds great significance, as it forms the foundation of our faith. Jesus assures Peter that upon this confession, He will build His church, and the gates of hell will not prevail against it. Listen in for more insight to the stairway.

The Bible makes it clear that children are a blessing. Whether adults are called to be parents, to foster, or to invest in children in some other unique way, kids are part of God's plan for individuals and humanity as a whole. God works through kids to bless their parents, and to demonstrate the blessings of simple faith. Listen in for a deeper dive from my book called, The Teachings of Jesus.

JESUS has a heart for the poor and marginalized, and He often speaks about them in His teachings. In this podcast, we’ll explore what Jesus says about the poor. If you are poor, know that God sees value in this for you today.  He also has the power to help you experience a change in this situation at any time. He knows exactly where you are and He still has this wonderful plan for your life—but it may not include lots of money.

ANGER is an emotion that all humans experience, but it can also be harmful if not controlled. In his teachings, Jesus speaks about anger and how we can manage it in a healthy way. When managing your anger, we must realize that sin is involved, reconciliation is needed, and forgiveness is essential. What's the difference between reconciliation and anger and what is righteous anger? Let’s explore what Jesus says about anger.

 Paul expresses his deep love and concern for the people, stating that he would willingly give his life for them. He emphasizes that the true Israel lacks nothing from God and affirms that the word of God has not failed. Paul reminds the readers that through Isaac, their name will live, as Sarah bore a child for them. He also mentions God's choice to love Jacob but hate Esau, highlighting God's sovereignty in showing compassion to whomever He desires. Listen in and I will share 10 take aways from this short message.

FAITH IS A central concept in Christianity, and Jesus speaks frequently about it in His teachings. In this podcast, we will explore what Jesus says about faith. Faith can heal. Faith is essential for salvation. Faith can move mountains. Faith requires trust. Many people speak about “having faith in Jesus,” but what exactly does this mean? The Bible uses the phrase “faith in Jesus” synonymously with belief in Jesus as Savior. 

In this podcast episode, we will be discussing carjacking prevention. Carjacking, the armed theft of automobiles from their drivers, has become a prevalent crime in recent years. It can occur anywhere and at any time, even in seemingly safe neighborhoods and during daylight hours. 

One reason carjacking is on the rise is because stealing parked cars, especially luxury models equipped with advanced alarm systems, has become increasingly difficult. As a result, car thieves find it easier to steal a car when the owner is present, with the keys in the ignition. 

While there are no foolproof ways to avoid carjacking, there are precautions you can take to minimize the risk. It's important to be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Listen in for some tips on how to stay safe and reduce you risks.

IN THE GOSPELS, Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper, a meal of remembrance that Christians have continued to celebrate throughout the centuries. In this podcast, we will explore what Jesus means when he says, “Do this in remembrance of me.” What are the things we are to remember? We will take a deeper dive into this discussion...listen in today.

Intentional leadership is a philosophy that emphasizes purposeful action, clarity of vision, and a commitment to personal and organizational growth. It is characterized by a deep understanding of oneself, a clear vision of the future, and a focus on building strong, positive relationships with others. Intentional leadership requires a deliberate and thoughtful approach to decision-making, communication, and personal development. Implementing intentional leadership in your business requires a commitment to personal growth and expansion.

Jesus had a high view of Scripture and often referred to it in his teachings. In this podcast, we will explore what Jesus said about the Word of God. We know that the Scripture is authoritative, it is true, it points to Jesus and it must be obeyed. Listen in so we can take a deeper dive into the Scriptures.

Encouragement is a powerful tool for leaders, and it can have a significant impact on the success of a business or an organization. When leaders encourage their team members, they can foster a sense of motivation, engagement, and loyalty that can lead to increased productivity, creativity, and innovation. In this podcast, we will explore the different styles of leadership by encouragement and highlight recent stories of business leaders who have used this style to achieve success. Listen in today so we can take a deeper dive into leadership by encouragement.

Who do we pray too, Jesus or God?

Does Satan listen in on our prayers?  How can we keep him from knowing what we are revealing about ourselves?

In Matthew 6:5–15, Jesus gives His disciples guidance on how to pray.

He begins by warning them not to pray to be seen by others, but rather to pray in secret. He then gives them an example of how to pray, which is commonly known as the Lord’s Prayer.

In today's world, leadership is more important than ever. With rapid changes in technology, political tensions, and a global pandemic, people are looking for leaders who can guide them through uncertainty and chaos. And what makes a good leader? It's not just about having a vision or making decisions. It's about being relational.
Being relational means building strong relationships with the people you lead. It means being empathetic and understanding, listening to their concerns and needs, and creating a culture of trust and collaboration. This kind of leadership inspires people to work together towards a common goal, and it fosters a sense of community and belonging. Listen in for a deeper dive and discussion about building relationships.

The topic of the end times has fascinated people for centuries. In this podcast, we will explore what Jesus had to say about the end times and what we can learn from his teachings. In Matthew 24, Jesus gives a lengthy discourse about the end times. He warns his disciples about false prophets, wars and rumors of wars, famines, earthquakes, and persecution. He also speaks of the coming of the Son of Man, saying that no one knows the day or the hour of his return. In Mark 13, Jesus again speaks of the end times, warning his disciples to be on guard and to stay awake. He speaks of the coming of the Son of Man and the signs that will precede his return. In Luke 21, Jesus speaks of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem and the signs that will precede his return. He warns his disciples to be on guard and to not be weighed down by the worries of life. What We Can Learn from Jesus' Teachings? Listen in as we learn more about the end times.

Responsibility is the obligation to do something, while accountability is accepting the consequences of one's actions or decisions related to that responsibility. Responsibility is a duty, while accountability is the obligation to answer for the outcome of fulfilling that duty. Accountability is often seen as a higher level of responsibility, as it involves taking ownership and being answerable for the results of one's actions. I like to think of the two, responsibility and accountability, like a coin.  They have two different sides but one cannot be without the other. Listen in for a deeper dive into accountability. This podcast is part of my new book, "Are you leading?", coming in August 2023.

Before we look at what Jesus said about temptation, it is important to note that he himself faced temptation. In Matthew 4:1-11, Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Each time the devil tempts him, Jesus responds with Scripture, ultimately resisting the devil's schemes. What Jesus Said About Temptation: In Matthew 26:41, Jesus tells his disciples to "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak." This shows that Jesus understood the power of temptation and the need for vigilance in resisting it. Listen in today so we can take a deep dive into our temptations. This study today is from chapter 10 of my book, "The Teachings of Jesus".

Welcome to today's mini podcast where we will be exploring the mission of the Holy Trinity. Our journey begins with Genesis 1:1-2:4 where God spoke and unfolded the earth with light, waters, the earth, the heaven, morning and evening. He created the sea creatures, birds, livestock, and even the things that creep on the ground. Then, He made man to be in charge of it all, created male and female by the creatures and humans. The trinity was present when all of this happened.

Being a leader is not just about making decisions and giving orders. It is a role that comes with a great deal of responsibility. A good leader understands this and takes their responsibilities seriously. They are aware that their actions and decisions have a direct impact on their team, their organization, and even their community. In this podcast, we will discuss the responsibilities of a good leader and how to avoid being irresponsible. 

As Christians, we often ask ourselves what Jesus wants from us. We will explore some key aspects of what Jesus desires from His followers. The prophet Micah responded to the Israelites’ complaint that they didn’t know what God wanted from them. The prophet says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8, ESV). Listen in to today's podcast as we take a deeper dive into what Jesus wants from us.

We will explore the powerful message of Romans 8 and how it answers the question, "Who will deliver me from this struggle of being a sinner, doing the very thing that God hates?" In Romans 8:1-2, Paul tells us that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. It is through Jesus that we are delivered from the power of sin and death. We are no longer under the law of sin and death, but under the law of the Spirit of life. It's important to reach Romans 7 to get the big picture of why Paul is making these statements in Romans 8...Paul struggled with this whole matter of sin, just like we do today. Listen in to this mini-podcast episode to gain more insight for living.

Today's podcast we will discuss the significance of Pentecost and how it relates to our Christian faith. In Acts 2:1-20, we see that on the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came like a mighty rushing wind, and divided tongues of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues. This event is a reminder that Jesus said in the last days, he will pour out his spirit on all people. It is the Holy Spirit that gathers us in church, keeps us in the Christian faith, and creates and sustains the whole Christian church today. 

"The truth will set you free" is a frequently quoted phrase within academic circles that aim to promote academic freedom and the transformative power of education. Many universities proudly display this statement on signs near their building entrances.  However, it is important to note that "the truth will set you free" did not originate within academia; it was spoken by Jesus in John 8:32.  In its original context, Jesus' statement does not pertain to classroom learning. In fact, John 8:32 conveys a deeper form of knowledge that surpasses what can be acquired in a classroom setting. Listen in today for a deep dive on what is Truth.

When it comes to leadership, few skills are as important as the ability to solve problems. Whether you're leading a team, a company, or a community, you'll encounter obstacles and challenges that require resourceful solutions. Unfortunately, problem-solving is often easier said than done. In this podcast, we'll explore the difficulties of problem-solving and the leadership styles and techniques that can help you overcome them.  

Many famous individuals throughout history have experienced feelings of loneliness and depression. Their struggles serve as a reminder that these emotions can affect anyone, regardless of their outward success or recognition. Depression and loneliness are common struggles that many people face. But what does Jesus have to say about these difficult emotions? We will explore some key examples of what Jesus says about depression and loneliness. He experienced these emotions Himself. In Matthew 26:36–38, Jesus goes to the garden of Gethsemane to pray before His arrest and crucifixion. He tells His disciples, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” This shows that even Jesus, the Son of God, experiences deep sorrow and anguish. Listen in today as we take a deeper dive about this topic.

As a leader, it is important to be able to think creatively to come up with innovative solutions to problems and to lead your team to success. Creative thinking is the ability to see things in new ways, to think outside the box, and to come up with unique solutions to challenges. In this podcast, we will discuss the importance of this exercise for leaders and provide practical tips on how to accomplish this.
Leaders who are able to think creatively have a competitive advantage in today's rapidly changing business environment. With new technologies emerging every day and globalization creating new challenges and opportunities, it is essential to think creatively to stay ahead of the curve. Innovative thinking also helps leaders to inspire their team and to come up with new and exciting ideas that can lead to growth and success. Listen in today.

We gather here to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have given their lives in service to our country. Memorial Day is a sacred occasion where we honor their sacrifice and express our deep gratitude for their courage and selflessness. It is important to understand the significance of this day and the context in which we honor our fallen heroes. Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, originated in the aftermath of the American Civil War. It was a time for communities to come together and decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags, a gesture of remembrance and respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Listen in to the entire speech I prepared for Memorial Day at Edora Park @ 8:45am on May 29, 2023. You are welcome to attend.

"Freedom in Christ," in this podcast we explore the liberating truths found in God's Word. Today we have an insightful topic to discuss—freedom from the Lordship of Sin and the law. Our focus text is Romans 7:6, which speaks of "The death of Husband Law." In Romans Chapter 7, the apostle Paul shares powerful insights on our relationship with the law and sin. He uses a relatable analogy to help us grasp the profound truth that we belong to Christ. Let's dive right in.

We are not of this world, but we are in it. Jesus is with us in His mercy during this in-between time. As we navigate this time of in-betweenness, let us remember that our Lord and Savior is with us, even in our suffering. He is the good shepherd who restores those who are done and strengthens us in our weakness. Brothers and sisters, let us devote ourselves to prayer and trust in God during this time of in-betweenness. Let us resist the devil and stand firm in our faith, knowing that God will lift us up and sustain us.

Mercy is a major theme in the teachings of Jesus. He emphasizes the importance of showing mercy to others and receiving God's mercy in our own lives. In this podcast, we will explore some key examples of what Jesus says about mercy. We’ll talk later on about the difference between grace and mercy, but for just a quick note, I’ve come to realize that Grace gives, and Mercy does something with that grace. The beatitude emphasizes the importance of extending kindness, compassion, and forgiveness to others, even when they do not deserve it. Listen in today for a more in-depth understanding of mercy.

Leadership is a complex and multifaceted concept that requires a variety of skills and qualities to be effective. The ability to think independently and critically, to solve problems, and to take responsibility and accountability for one's actions are all essential components of effective leadership. However, these skills alone do not make a great leader. Critical thinking for leaders is the ability to analyze information, evaluate different perspectives and evidence, and make informed decisions based on logic and reason. It involves questioning traditions, identifying predispositions, and considering different viewpoints to arrive at a well-reasoned and informed decision. Listen in for an in-depth understanding of critical thinking.

Grace is a central theme in the teachings of Jesus. He emphasizes the importance of receiving God’s grace and extending it to others. We’ll explore some key examples of what Jesus says about grace. According to the Bible and Bible commentators, grace is a term that refers to the unmerited favor and kindness of God toward humankind. The concept of grace is central to the Christian faith and is emphasized throughout the Bible, especially in the New Testament. Grace is for sinners, and the unworthy, which means it is for everyone and no one is left out. Mother Teresa was a great example of showing human grace to others. Listen in today so we can take a deeper dive into grace for all.

Independent thinking is a critical skill for leaders who want to succeed in today's complex and dynamic world. It enables them to embrace diversity of thought, develop new skills, overcome barriers to independent thinking, and apply these practices to leadership. Leaders can effectively navigate ambiguity, make informed decisions, and drive innovation. They also inspire their teams to think creatively and challenge the status quo, leading to breakthrough ideas and solutions. In this chapter, we explore the importance of independent thinking for leaders and provide practical tips and strategies for developing this essential skill. We'll talk about five categories of independent thinking in today's podcast.

Love is a central theme in the teachings of Jesus. He emphasizes the importance of loving God and loving others, and his own life is a shining example of sacrificial love. In this podcast, we will explore some key examples of what Jesus says about love. One of the big commands that Jesus gave us was to Love God with All Your Heart, soul, mind, and strength. This commandment emphasizes the importance of having a deep and authentic love for God, One that encompasses every aspect of our being. When we love God in this way, we are able to love others more fully as well.

Jesus is known for His ability to reason with people, using logic and wisdom to engage with them and challenge their beliefs. He often uses parables and analogies to communicate complex concepts in a way that was easy to understand. In this episode, we will explore some key examples of how Jesus reasons with people. Throughout the bible, the voice of reason is exercised. Think of the phrased used in the bible, “reasoning together” as the opportunity to have reasons to believe. Yes, the bible helps nonbelievers to use common sense. Join me today and listen in for a more in-depth study of how Jesus reasoned with people.