Join The Journey

"How should we understand Paul's counsel in chapter 7 about staying single ‘because of the present distress’? In chapters 8–10, Paul talks about food offered to idols, liberty, and not causing others to stumble. How do these principles guide us in modern issues where Christians disagree on gray areas? How should the church today approach communion with the reverence and unity Paul calls for? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Callie Nixon, about 1 Corinthians 7-11 and discuss the topics of singleness, marraige, living as an encouragement to others, and partaking in communion with reverence. Callie reminds us that these chapte...

"What does Paul say about finding our identity and value in Christ alone? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Ryan Nixon talk about 1 Corinthians 1-6. Ryan gives us some background to the book of 1 Corinthians and share the purpose of Paul's letter. Ryan then focuses on 1 Corinthians 4, reflecting on our Gospel identity and what should determine the value of our identity. To purchase The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Tim Keller: https://a.co/d/0s4L4Qi You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 ...

"How does Romans 15:5 speak into the challenges of unity across cultural, ethnic, and generational differences in the church today? What can we learn from Paul’s missionary vision about how the church should think about global missions today? What does the long list of names in Romans 16 teach us about Paul’s ministry philosophy and the importance of ordinary Christians in God’s mission? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Kari Perry talk about Romans 15-16 and unity, discerning a call to missions, and our role in God's mission. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Po...

"How does the image of a ""living sacrifice"" connect back to Old Testament sacrifices, and what does it practically look like for a Christian to live as a living sacrifice today? In today's episode, Watermark Community Director, Katie Shemanske, talks about Romans 12-14 and unpacks how we as believers can live out the principles Paul is teaching in these chapters. Katie challenges us in how we live a life surrendered to Christ, love one another, and find our satisfaction in Christ alone. Additional references: 1 John 2:15-16; Ephesians 6; Galatians 6:2; John 13:34; Galatians 5:13-26; Galatians 5:; 1 John 4:7-8; You can also check out the...

Is God unjust? Are some people chosen to be God's children while others aren't? In this episode, Emma sits down with Watermark's Director of Equipping & Apologetics, Nathan Wagnon, to dive into the common misconceptions surrounding Romans 9.

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Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources!

https://www.jointhejourney.c...

"In Romans 7, Paul describes the inner conflict of wanting to do good but struggling with sin. Is Paul speaking autobiographically as a mature Christian, describing life under the law before Christ, or something else? How should chapter 8 shape a Christian’s daily confidence and hope, especially in seasons of suffering? In today's episode, Katie Shemanske and Watermark member, Raegan Driskell talk about Romans 7-9 and discuss the tension of pursing good while being saved by grace through faith and how we can rest in the knowledge of Christ's work for us. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr...

"What is the connection between baptism and freedom in Christ? In today's episode, Watermark's Men's Bible Study Director, Kyle Aaron, and College Director, Grant Wilkie, talk about Romans 4-8. They discuss the role of baptism in a believer's life, the freedom we receive from sin, and how we become more like Christ. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! ...

"Who are the 3 groups Paul says are ""without excuse""? What is the main premise of Chapters 1-3? In today's episode, Christy Chermak, Director of Watermark Health, talks with Arnie Knecht about the book of Romans. Arnie tees up the book of Romans, giving us a greater understanding of the circumstances surrounding the Roman church and hwy Paul's letter was encouraging to them. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the...

"What does it look like to lead with faith when everyone is panicking? In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses how Paul navigated the storms of Acts 27 by placing his trust in the truth of God's control and sovereignty over his life. Emma encourages us with three ways we can navigate storms like Paul. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more...

"What does it mean to be courageous? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks about Acts 25-26 and how Paul's convictions shaped his courage. Emma shows three aspects of Paul's courage that should shape ours—courage depends on Christ, courage tells the truth even when unpopular, and courage stays faithful when outcome is uncertain. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more re...

"How do we deal with anxious thoughts and uncertainty in our lives? In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses Acts 23-24 and Paul's calm in the midst of his uncertainty. Emma highlights Paul's trust in God's sovereignty, provision, and control through the power of the Spirit. Check out today's devotional by Pam Rittenberry! https://www.jointhejourney.com/7265-council-conspiracy-and-paul-kept-in-custody You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for...

"What were Paul's missionary journeys? Where did Paul travel to and why was it important? In today's episode, Emma Dotter helps us understand the context, geography, and detials of Paul's missionary journeys. Emma helps us see how Paul's missionary journeys were a partial fulfillment of Acts 1:8. Additional References: Titus 1:5; 1 Timothy 1:3 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www...

" How can the church stay healthy as it grows? In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses Acts 18-20 and the dominio affect of faithfulness we see with Apollos, Priscilla, and Aquilla. Emma challenges listeners to recognize their role in the mission of God in faithful obedience to sharing the Gospel and discipling others. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! ...

"What was the Jerusalem Council and why does it matter? In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses Acts 15-17 and unpacks what the Jerusalem Council was and why it was significant in the history of the church. Emma explains how the Jerusalem Council affirmed salvation by faith in Christ alone, provided unity for the early church, and spurred on the spread of the Gospel. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out...

"Why does God answer some prayers and not others? What does this say about God's power? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks about Acts 12 comparing the answered prayers for Peter to be saved and the unanswered prayers for James to be saved. Emma Dotter encourages listeners to pray, trusting in God's soverignty and power, even in the midst of unanswered prayers. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join...

"How does Saul's story change the way we read Paul's letters? In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses Saul's transformation story in Acts 9 and how this story helps us understand Paul's defence of himself, his suffering, and God's heart for unity in Paul's letters and writings. Additional References: 1 Timothy 1; Ephesians 2:8-10; John 15:20; Galatians 2:12; 1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and...

"How does Stephen's speech point to Jesus? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks about Acts 7-8 and how Stephen's message recounts the faith of those in Israel's history who were rejected by God's people, similarly to Jesus. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5...

"What does the apostles's courage in the face of persecution say about God's unstoppable mission? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks about Acts 5-6 and discusses how the spread of the Gospel continues, even though the early church was being persecuted for the truth they were speaking. Emma challenges listeners to think about what role they have in God's mission in spreading the Gospel. Additional References: Acts 22:3 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si...

"What is the significance of the apostles doing things in the name of Jesus? What can we learn from the early church's response to opposition? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks about Acts 3-4 and the significance of Jesus' name and how we can do things with Jesus. Emma also highlights the ways the early church responded to persecution in boldness and faith. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out...

"Who wrote the book of Acts? What do I need to know about the book of Acts? In today's episode, Emma Dotter sets up the book of Acts and helps us understand the authorship of Luke. Emma explains how everything in Acts fllows out of Acts 1:8 is the story of how God continues his mission through the power of the Spirit. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join...

"How does the end of John point to the purpose of John's gospel? In today's episode, Kyle Aaron, Director of Men's Bible Study talks about John 18-21 and wraps up our time in the Gospels with a compelling message of who Jesus is and his work to save us. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney...

"What does the imagery of a vine and branches teach us about abiding with Jesus? In today's episode, Watermark Shoreline Director Will McIlroy discusses John 15 and three principles we can follow to abide well with Jesus. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK...

"What does John 11 teach us about how God meets us in our sorrow? What does it look like to live a John 13 love throughout one's life—not just for a season but for life? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with long time, faithful Watermark member Sammie Johnston about John 10-13. Sammie shares how these chapters have intersected with her life and relationship with Jesus. Additional References: Philippians 4:19; Isaiah 53:3; 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1Zj...

"What does real freedom look like? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter and faithful Watermark member Chapman Penuel discuss John 7-9, highlighting Jesus’s controversial teaching and how he challenges us to walk courageously in a new way of life. Interested in Watermark’s high school ministry? Check out the link below to Shoreline! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/shoreline Check out the Join The Journey Devotionals here! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 "

"What’s the significance of Jesus offering living water to a Samaritan women in the context of redemptive history? John 5 centers on healing and judgment—and Jesus claims authority to give life and execute judgment. How do Jesus' claims develop John’s theology of who Jesus is? What’s the significance of the miracle-sign pairing of feeding the 5,000, and how does it help us read John’s Gospel rightly? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Alfred Abraham talk about John 7-9 and answer these questions. Additional References: Isaiah 44:3; Deteronomy 32:39; 1 Samuel 2:6; Kings 5:7 Hebrews 2:17 You can also check out the Join The J...

"Why does John's Gospel start with just ‘In the beginning was the Word.’? What big themes are echos of the Old Testament and help us read the rest of the Gospel faithfully? John 3 includes what might be the most quoted verse in the Bible—but the whole chapter is deeper and more complex than people realize. What do we miss if we reduce John 3:16 to just a slogan? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Garrett Wikle discuss the first 3 chapters of the Gospel of John. Additional References: Genesis 1:1-3; Hebrews 2:5-18; Philippians 2; Matthew 28:19-20; Revelation 21-22 You can also c...

"What does Luke 23 reveal about human justice versus divine justice? When Jesus says, ‘Father, forgive them’ from the cross, how do you wrestle with his mercy in a world—and a courtroom—so focused on guilt and consequences? Why do you think it matters that the resurrection is not just an event but something that reshapes how we see the whole story? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Rowe Stipe talk answer these questions and talk through Luke 23-24. Additional References: Daniel 7, Ephesians 2; Genesis 3:15 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts...

"In Luke 21, Jesus describes future upheaval—wars, persecution, signs in the heavens. How should we read these verses without falling into fear or speculation? In Luke 22, what’s the significance of the Last Supper—and how does it connect to the story of redemption? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Susannah Gullette talk about Luke 21-22. They discuss how we can face the trials of the future in the hope of Jesus Christ's salvation and work in our lives. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-t...

"What do Luke 19 and 20 teach us about relationship with God and commerse? In today's episode, Watermark member Seth Master discusses Luke 19-20 and how material things can distract us from relationship with God. Seth also discusses the interactions between Jesus and the religious leaders and his responses to their accusations. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www...

"In Luke 18, Jesus says the tax collector—not the Pharisee—went home justified. What does that teach us about the kind of heart God responds to? Jesus talks a lot in these chapters about the coming Kingdom—sometimes it sounds like it’s already here, and other times like it’s still coming. How should we understand that tension? In today's episode, Watermark Health Director, Christy Chermak talks with Watermark member Jelani Rainey about Luke 17-18. Additional References: Psalm 40; Psalm 139; Psalm 51 Check out Watermark South Dallas on a Sunday! https://www.watermark.org/southdallas You can also check out the Join The J...

"Luke 15 includes three parables about lost things—a sheep, a coin, and a son. What do these parables reveal about God’s heart? What do you think Jesus is showing us through the older brother's attitude in the Prodigal Son story? What does that Luke 16 teach us about eternity—and how should it shape the way we live now? In today's episode, Christy Chermak, Director of Watermark Health, talks with Watermark member Leonard Bagdanov and talk through the parables found in Luke 15-16. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/pod...

"1. In Luke 13, Jesus says ‘Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.’ That’s pretty strong language. How should we understand repentance—and why is it so central to Jesus’ message? 2. Jesus tells a parable about a narrow door in Luke 13 and says many will try to enter but won’t be able to. What do we learn from that about salvation and self-deception? 3. In Luke 14, Jesus tells people to count the cost before following Him. What does it look like to do that today—and why do you think Jesus warns us so strongly? Romans 3:23; Romans 7:8"

In today's episode, Emma Dotter and faithful Watermark member Jim Word dive into Luke 11 and 12 where we get to dive deeper into the story of the disciples asking Jesus to teach them to pray. How do these passage change my perspective on prayer? And how can we be challenged to pray better prayers in our daily lives?

Additional References: Romans 8:26-27

"In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with faithful Watermark member, Jesus sends out the 72 in Luke 10 and tells them not to worry about money or comfort. How have you seen God provide when you stepped out in faith? 3. In the story of Mary and Martha, Jesus praises Mary for sitting at His feet. Over the years, how have you learned to choose ‘the better portion’? 4. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10), Jesus flips the question from ‘Who is my neighbor?’ to ‘What kind of neighbor am I?’ Why do you think that shift matters so much?"

"In Luke 7, Jesus is amazed by a Roman centurion’s faith—and then honors a sinful woman who anoints His feet. What do these stories teach us about the kind of faith that pleases Jesus?What do the miracles in Luke 8 reveal about Jesus’ authority? In today's episode, Watermark Women's Community Director, Katie Shemanske talks with Watemark member, Emily Stence about Luke 7-8. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Jo...

"What can we learn from Peter in Luke 5 about trusting Jesus when it doesn’t make sense? What stands out to you about the kind of people Jesus chooses to hang out with? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, John Garza, talk about Luke 5-6, discussing how we can trust in Jesus' plan for us and love others like Jesus loved others. Additional References: Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:; Ephesians 2:8; Romans 8:28; Galatians 5:14 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1Zj...

"Why does Luke trace Jesus' genealogy all the way to Adam and how does it shape our understanding of who Jesus is? Why is Jesus saying he had ""come to bring good news"" explosive at this time and what does it tell us about Jesus’ mission? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Mark Hapka, about Luke 3-4, covering Jesus' divinity, temptation, and mission here on earth. Additional References: John 5:18 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aa...

"Can I trust the Lord to write my life's story? What is the purpose of having multiple gospels? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark elder, Blake Holmes, talk about Luke 1-2 and evaluate the stories of Mary and Elizabeth at the beginning of this book. Blake encourages listeners to look to the truth God has given us in his Word. Additional References: 2 Samuel 7 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check...

"Do you have to be baptized to be saved? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter focuses on Mark 16:16 and discusses how acts in response to salvation do not save us, but reveal our inward faith to others. Are you a believer looking to take the next step in your walk? Check out the link below for baptism at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/baptism Check out the Join The Journey Devotionals here! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ You can also check out the Join Th...

"Why does Jesus curse the fig tree and flip tables in the temple? In Mark 13, Jesus talks about the end times—but there’s so much we don’t understand. What does He actually want His followers to focus on? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark South Dallas member, Natanya Michaud talk about Mark chapters 11-13 and discuss these questions and how we an live unafraid in the hope of Christ. Learn more about Watermark South Dallas: https://www.watermark.org/southdallas You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/pod...