Join The Journey

"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...

"Explore the heart of discipleship in today's podcast by joining Emma Dotter and Director of Watermark CDC, Carson Smith as they dive into Mark 8-10 to unpack what it means to deny ourselves, embrace servanthood, and overcome barriers like wealth to follow Jesus. Discover how Jesus’ call to serve, exemplified in Mark 10:45, inspires the Watermark CDC’s mission and shapes a countercultural kingdom mindset for the church today. To learn more about Watermark CDC link: https://www.watermarkcdc.org/ or email info@watermarkcdc.org. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com...

"What should we make of Jesus' rejection by his hometown and how do we stay faithful when people close to us don’t respond to the gospel? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Daniel King, talk about Mark 6-7 and discuss how being confident even in the midst of rejection while sharing the Gosepl. They also discuss how we can evaluate our lives and heart in response to Mark 7:15. Additional references: Romans 8:17; 2 Corinthians 4:17; Psalm 139:23-24; Mark 7 If you are a college student, come check out Rally! https://www.watermark.org/events/5741-rally-groups If you are interested in joining Re...

"Why does Jesus teach in parables in Mark 4 and how should that shape the way we read and respond to his words today? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Chandler Carlisle about Mark 4-5. They discuss the stories Jesus tells and the stories of Jesus meeting a demon possessed man, a sick woman, and a grieving father, unpacking what they show us about Jesus' heart for people. 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/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34...

"What's the big message about who Jesus is in the opening chapters of Mark? In Mark 2-3, Jesus keeps clashing with religious leaders. What do we learn about the kind of people Jesus came for and the kind of heart he's looking for in his followers? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Julie Fowler, talk about the diety and humanity of Jesus, Jesus' heart for people, and how we can follow him. For more Infertility and Pregnancy loss ministries: https://www.juliefowlerministries.com/ Listen to Julie's previous episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-167-isaiah-1-5...

"Matthew 27 shows us the suffering Jesus endured to bring salvation to the world. How should seeing the cost of the cross deepen our sense of urgency for getting Scripture to those who haven't heard? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Seed Company CEO and Watermark member, Davis Powell about Matthew 27-28. Davis talks about the importance of accessibility of the Scriptures for all people and explains how Seed Company is meeting this need in unreached people groups. Additional References: Revelations 7:9; Ephesians 2:10 Join us and the Seed Company as we unlock more projects in Bible Translation! https://seed.bible/campaigns...

"How should it shape the way we pray in hard moments? What are we supposed to remember when we take communion? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Scott Fowler, Matthew 26 and discuss the events of Jesus praying in Gethsemane, the establishment of communion, and how we can apply both of these stories to our own lives. Additional References: Luke 18; Matthew 7; Ephesians 2:8-9 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?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322...

"What about the ends times are we actually supposed to understand and apply today? What do the parables in Matthew 25 teach us about how to live while we wait for Jesus to return? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks about Matthew 24-25 and how we can wait well for the Lord to return by being ready, faithful, and fruitful. 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?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true...

"What can we learn from how Jesus responds to tricky questions in Matthew 22? What was the context in Matthew 23, where Jesus harshly criticizes the religious leaders? What can modern readers learn from this story? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Ross Ferrans, discuss Matthew 22-23 and talk about how to keep our heart aligned with God's and Jesus' heart for the people who criticized him the most. Check out events we have for newly married couples: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/foundation-groups Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney...

"What does Jesus' parable in Matthew 20:1-16 teach us about God's justice and why might it feel unfair to us? In Matthew 21, why does Jesus cleanse the temple and curse the fig tree? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Baker Flagg, talk about Matthew 20-21 and answer these questions by unpacking these stories. Additional References: Romans 3:23; 6:23; John 15:2-6; Proverbs 3:5-6 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...

"Should I actually cut off my extremeties based on Matthew 18:8-9? What does Jesus mean? What does 18:35 mean? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark student, Andrew Thompson about the importance of going to war with our sin and what it looks like to kill our sin. They discuss how forgiveness is also a fruit of our salvation and how we are called to forgive others. Additional References: Romans 8:13; Proverbs 6:6-11; Ephesians 4:32; Ephesians 1:7 To register for the Watermark Students Retreat: https://www.watermark.org/events/6650-watermark-students-retreat-2025 Got Questions Article referred to in today's episode: https://www.gotquestions.org/pluck-out-eye-cut-off-hand...

"What is the ""rock"" that Jesus says he will build his church on? What is the significance of Matthew 16:13-20 and how have Christians understood this text throughout history? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Alan Beam discuss the three theological stances on the phrase ""on this rock, I will build my church"" that is said by Jesus in 16:18. Additional References: 1 Corinthians 10:4; Ephesians 2:19-20; 1 Peter 2:4-5 Check out Great Questions if you have any questions about faith and theology. https://www.watermark.org/ministries/great-questions If you have questions about the Bible, check out www.gotquestions.org Check...

"Why did Jesus speak in parables if people wouldn't understand? Is Jesus calling this woman a dog? What's happening in this story, what can we learn, and why is it important? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Emily Carter, talk about Matthew 13-15 and discuss the significance of parables in Jesus' time, how we can learn from them today, and Jesus' heart to know all people. Additional References: Romans 1:16 If you're a young adult, join us for The Porch on Tuesday nights: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/the-porch If you'd like to connect with Re:gen, go to...

"What is meant by ""blasphemy against the Holy Spirit,"" and am I in danger of committing an unforgivable sin? in today's episode, Emma Dotter and Jo O'Steen talk about Matthew 11-12 and explain what it means to blasphemy and the difference between blasphemy against Jesus and the Spirit. Check out the article from GotQuestions: https://www.gotquestions.org/blasphemy-Holy-Spirit.html To learn how to serve with International Students: https://www.watermark.org/outreach/international-students 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...

"Is Jesus being harsh to the disciples in Matthew 8:18-22? How should we interpret and apply this passage? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark student, Campbell Henke about Matthew 8-10 and discuss the urgency of following Christ, how our faith (not works) is what saves us, and how we will experience persecution for our faith. Additional References: Romans 3:28; Jeremiah 7:27 Students, join us for Shoreline: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/students 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/6SG7...

"What does it mean to be poor in spirit? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and South Dallas Watermark member Jacob Arrington to discuss Matthew 5-7, and talk specifically about the lessons that Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount. Jacob reminds us that we live out this sermon by knowing who we are and who God is, seeking him daily. Check out the study sheet for the book of Matthew: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5i70m1Udg6twAQhWIxyWyS/2f298cba3d5e53ca762b9f0e7dcf341f/40-Matthew-Study-Sheet.pdf You can also check out...

"Why does Matthew refer to the prophets so much? What is the significance this Old Testament usage by Matthew? In today's episode, Will McIlroy talks with Watemark member, Christine Saso about Matthew 1-4 and talk through the geneology of Matthew 1, the temptation of Jesus, and why the use of the Old Testament was significant to the people who would have read it in Jesus' time. Additional References: Micah 5:2; Isaiah 7:14; If you're a student, join us for Shoreline on October 1st! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/shoreline You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https...

"What happens in between the Old Testament and New Testament? How does this time period set the stage for Jesus' birth? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Join The Journey summer intern, Evelyn Parsley, walk us through the political and cultural events that lead up the start of the New Testament and the birth of Jesus 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...

"How does the “You say… but I say…” style shape the message, and what does it reveal about the spiritual condition of the post-exilic community? How should we understand the prophecy of a “messenger who prepares the way” in Malachi 3:1 and the “Elijah” figure in 4:5? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with one of our Join The Journey editors, Scott Breedlove about Malachi. Scott challenges us to see the bigger picture that God is writing, trust his promises, and check our hearts for contemptment against God. Additional references: Matthew 11:7-15; Luke 1:15-17; Matthew 17:10-13; To apply to be a Join The Journey edit...