Episodes

  • Anne Frank Quotes

    Anne Frank Quotes
    Jan 6 2025
    I'd just like to say thank you to my wife for lending her lovely voice to the role of playing Anne Frank. You really should hear her sing. It's truly something special.For in its innermost depths, youth is lonelier than old age. I read this saying in some book, and I've always remembered it. I found it to be true.Is it true then that grown-ups had a more difficult time here than we do? No, I know it isn't. Older people have formed their opinions about everything and don't waver before they act. It's twice as hard for us young ones to hold our ground and maintain our opinions at a time when all ideals have been shattered and destroyed. When people are showing their worst side and do not know whether to believe in truth and right in God.Anyone who claims that the older ones have a more difficult time here certainly doesn't realize to what extent our problems weigh down on us. Problems for which we are probably much too young, but which thrust themselves upon us continually until after a long time we think we've found a solution. But the solution doesn't seem able to resist the facts, which reduce it to nagging again.That's the difficulty in these times. Ideals, dreams, and cherished hopes rise within us only to meet the horrible truth and be shattered. It's really a wonder that I haven't dropped all my ideals because they seem so absurd and impossible to carry out. Yet I keep them because in spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart. I simply can't build up my hopes on a foundation consisting of confusion, misery, and death.I see the world gradually being turned into a wilderness. I hear the ever-approaching thunder which will destroy us too. I think the old sufferings are new ones, and yet if I look up into the heavens, I think that it will all come out all right. That this cruelty too will end and that peace and tranquility will return again. In the meantime, I must uphold my ideals, for perhaps the time will come when I shall be able to carry them out.Yours, Anna.Anne Frank was a remarkable young soul, full of curiosity, questions, and a bright intellect. Yet for all her gifts, she lacked the light of truth. She wandered like so many others, clinging to fragile hopes and misplaced ideals, blind to the unchanging realities of God's word. Her belief in the goodness of humanity, though heartfelt, was tragically naive. The Bible makes it clear: "The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked; who can understand it?" (Jeremiah 17:9).How might her life and her writings have been different if she had been rooted in the truth of Scripture? Had her parents filled her heart with the word of God instead of the fleeting philosophies of man, she might have seen clearly the sinful condition of humanity. "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). This truth is not a lament but a starting point. Only when we understand the depth of our sin can we begin to grasp the height of God's grace. It's not despairing to acknowledge our brokenness; it's essential to appreciating redemption.Anne Frank's story isn't just a personal tragedy. It's a reminder of the moral bankruptcy of a world that has turned its back on God. The reality of sin is written all over her experience. She hid in an attic for two years not because the world was good, but because the world was profoundly evil. Her optimism that people were good at heart was a fragile hope that could not stand in the face of atrocities that defy imagination. This is the reality of sin: it destroys, it corrupts, it blinds. The hope Anne sought was not to be found in humanity, but in Christ. He declared, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12).Even those who seem righteous are not exempt from sin's pervasive nature. Bishop William Beveridge confessed this so powerfully in his poem:"I cannot pray, but I sin.I cannot hear or preach a sermon,
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    10 mins
  • Judge Not Lest Ye Be Judged: Matthew 7

    Judge Not Lest Ye Be Judged: Matthew 7
    Dec 31 2024

    Judge Not That Ye Be Not Judged: A Lesson in Humility and Reflection The phrase “Judge not that ye be not judged” is one of the most well-known teachings of Jesus, encapsulating a powerful reminder about humility, grace, and self-reflection. Yet, in today’s fast-paced world, this teaching often feels forgotten. We live in a culture […]
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    9 mins
  • You have not because you ask not.

    You have not because you ask not.
    Dec 29 2024
    You have not because you ask not.You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive because you ask with wrong motives that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.James 4:2-3Let’s get real. We’re pretty bad at asking for what we need. Think about it—how often do we run around trying to fix our problems on our own, only to end up frustrated, exhausted, and maybe a little hangry? James lays it out for us: “You do not have because you do not ask God.” And even when you do ask, James is like, “Yeah, but are you asking with the right motives?” Ouch. That’s like getting roasted by your favorite Bible verse.Humans are funny creatures, aren’t we? We’ve got this endless list of wants—some of them legit, like food and shelter, and some of them a little questionable, like a personal yacht or the ability to eat donuts without consequences. And what do we do? Instead of asking God, we hustle, we plot, we compare, we scroll through social media, see someone’s perfect life, and suddenly we’re spiraling. James is over here yelling, “Stop fighting and start praying.” But do we listen? Not usually.Here’s the thing: James isn’t against wanting things. He’s just calling out the way we go about it. We work ourselves into the ground, trying to control every outcome, and then wonder why we feel so empty. It’s like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without reading the instructions. Sure, you could do it your way, but you’re probably going to end up with a wobbly table and three leftover screws.Checking Your Motives in PrayerNow let’s talk about prayer. James doesn’t just tell us to pray—he tells us to pray right. And no, that doesn’t mean using fancy King James English or slipping in a “thee” and “thou” for extra points. It means checking your heart. Are you praying for God’s wisdom and guidance, or are you just trying to manifest a new car? God isn’t your personal Amazon Prime, ready to deliver your latest wish in two days or less. He’s looking at the why behind your prayer.This is where things get awkward, because let’s be honest—we’ve all prayed some questionable prayers. You know the ones. Like, “God, if you just let me win the lottery, I’ll totally donate… some of it… probably.” Or, “Lord, please let my boss call in sick so I can have a stress-free day.” James calls these out as praying with the wrong motives. God isn’t in the business of granting selfish wishes or helping you one-up your neighbor. Prayer isn’t about bending God’s will to match yours; it’s about aligning your heart with His.Here’s a fun question: How often do we completely skip the “asking God” step? Be honest. We’ll vent to our friends, write vague posts on Facebook like, “Ugh, today has been the worst,” and then drown our stress in a Netflix binge. Prayer feels too slow or too uncomfortable, so we try to fix everything ourselves. And when that doesn’t work, we treat God like the tech support guy you only call after smashing all the buttons didn’t solve the problem. “Well, nothing else worked—guess I’ll pray now!” No wonder James is like, “You have not because you ask not.”Focus on What Truly MattersBut James doesn’t stop there. He also warns about envy and comparison, and wow, does that hit home. We’re masters of the comparison game. We see someone’s vacation photos and suddenly feel like our whole life is boring. Or we hear about a coworker’s promotion and think, “Why not me?” James is telling us, “Stop it. You’re wasting your time.” Coveting what someone else has isn’t just bad for your soul—it’s a one-way ticket to frustration. Life isn’t about keeping up with the Joneses or one-upping your neighbor. It’s about seeking what God has planned for you.And let’s not forget about the church. Yep, James is coming for us too. How often do churches fall into the same traps? We pray for growth,
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    13 mins
  • Hope Beyond the Horizon: Surviving the Auckland Isles – Part 5, The Finale

    Hope Beyond the Horizon: Surviving the Auckland Isles – Part 5, The Finale
    Dec 28 2024
    The diary recounts a voyage filled with relentless challenges, cultural encounters, and moments of introspection. Spanning from August to September 1865, the crew battles unrelenting weather, navigational difficulties, and encounters with wildlife, all while harboring a deep longing for home and civilization. As they face these trials, one verse encapsulates their journey: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me” (Psalm 28:7).From the outset, the voyage is fraught with unrelenting weather. Gales, squalls, hailstorms, and freezing temperatures batter the crew and vessel, delaying their departure. When the journey finally begins, the seas prove unforgiving, forcing the sailors to seek shelter in safe harbors like Port Adventure and Port Pegasus. The vessel, though small, earns admiration for its resilience. Despite the severe conditions, including waves crashing over the deck and leaks spreading water throughout, the ship remains steadfast. The author marvels at its ability to “ride like a seagull” amidst towering waves. The crew, drenched and exhausted, perseveres with a hope rooted in God’s promise: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you” (Isaiah 43:2).Navigational difficulties exacerbate their struggles. Faulty compasses mislead the sailors, forcing them to rely on celestial readings when the skies clear. Storms make the voyage increasingly perilous, with rain, snow, and thunder adding to the chaos. At times, the crew is unable even to cook a meal or enjoy a cup of tea, and their physical and mental endurance is pushed to the limit. Yet, moments of hope emerge, like a rising barometer signaling calmer weather or brief lulls in the storm allowing them to regroup. These fleeting moments reflect the promise of “those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles” (Isaiah 40:31).Nature plays a dual role as both a challenge and a provider. Seal hunting becomes a recurring activity, offering much-needed sustenance but also testing the crew’s resourcefulness. In one instance, a vomiting seal calf is mistakenly celebrated as a kill by a sailor, only to later reveal its true state, prompting laughter amidst the hardships. A loyal dog aids in the hunts, fearlessly engaging seals despite injuries. This interplay between survival and humor illustrates the resilience of the human spirit, while the beauty of creation serves as a reminder of God’s handiwork: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it” (Psalm 24:1).Cultural exchanges with the Maori population provide moments of insight and mutual respect. The author observes the unique harmony within Captain Cross’s family, blending European and Maori traditions. Mrs. Cross speaks only Maori, while their children fluently navigate both languages. The village magistrate’s visit showcases the depth of Maori customs, as he waits to dine until the crew finishes their meal—a mark of humility and respect. A pivotal encounter with Maori chief Toby proves invaluable when he lends the crew a reliable compass and shares knowledge about a sheltered cove near the Snares Islands. These exchanges embody the spirit of unity described in “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1).The relentless challenges of the voyage prompt deep introspection from the author. He expresses longing for his family and questions the fairness of his prolonged absence. The yearning for home and the comforts of civilization is a recurring theme, with the author clinging to the hope of reunion. Despite the hardships, moments of camaraderie among the crew provide solace. Calm weather allows them to dry their clothes, share meals, and recover their spirits. These small victories, though fleeting, echo the assurance of “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubl...
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    32 mins
  • A Perilous Escape from the Auckland Isles 4

    A Perilous Escape from the Auckland Isles 4
    Dec 27 2024
    And that’s it for today, folks! What a daring, nail-biting, hold-your-breath kind of journey to safety this has been! Honestly, I don’t know if I would’ve had the courage (or sheer stubbornness) to make it through those icy waters and endless challenges. I mean, imagine battling the elements, wrestling with fate, and holding onto hope with nothing but grit and a little divine intervention. Could I have done it? Eh, probably not. But hey, that’s why these stories are so captivating—they remind us that even in the wildest situations, the human spirit (and a good dose of teamwork) can prevail.Now, here’s the deal: we’re not quite done yet. Oh no, the grand finale is coming in the next episode, and trust me, you won’t want to miss it. We’re going to wrap up this incredible tale and reflect on what it all means—faith, perseverance, and how to survive when life throws a shipwreck at you (metaphorically, of course).Until then, stay safe, stay inspired, and may God bless you abundantly. Whether you’re navigating calm waters or stormy seas in your own life, remember, you’re never truly alone. Take care, and I’ll see you in the final episode. You won’t want to miss it!
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    Less than 1 minute
  • The Old ship Captain Musgrave’s Forgotten Adventure, Part 3

    The Old ship Captain Musgrave’s Forgotten Adventure, Part 3
    Dec 24 2024
    Welcome back to Old Time Preaching with your neighbor Tim, the Chief of the Nobodies! If you haven’t listened to Parts 1 and 2, stop right here and go check them out—I’ll wait. No, really. Go on. I’m not going anywhere.Survival Movies: Captain Musgrave’s Forgotten Adventure Part 2Survival Movies: Captain Musgrave’s True AccountAlright, welcome back! Let’s get to the next chapter of Captain Thomas Musgrave’s wild adventure. By this point, the Grafton was officially a “fancy pile of sticks,” or as we like to call it in the business, a derelict vessel. But let’s give the man credit: Musgrave didn’t sit around complaining about it. Nope. “If God gives you lemons—or in this case, a wrecked schooner—you make a hut!” And that’s exactly what he did.With timbers, nails, and every scrap of the Grafton they could find, Musgrave and his crew built a little cabin that could have been called Epigwaitt—because calling it “Shack of Doom” probably wouldn’t have lifted morale. This little four-walled refuge came complete with a stone fireplace for cooking, heating, and a church sermon every Sunday from Musgrave himself. It wasn’t exactly the Ritz, but when you’re stranded on a freezing rock in the middle of nowhere, you’ll take what you can get.Life on the island wasn’t easy. The men hunted seals for food and clothing, and maybe Musgrave said a prayer on every hunt, something like, “Dear Lord, please let that seal stop running so fast.” And while Musgrave kept everyone busy with tasks, he knew the real challenge wasn’t just the hunger or cold—it was keeping their spirits from sinking faster than their ship had. So, like a good Christian leader, he made sure there was always hope on the menu.Musgrave was no ordinary captain—he was the kind of guy who could turn a wrecked ship and a desolate island into a survival story. He kept everyone on task: one man built tools, another stoked the fire, and someone else probably handled the “Keep the hut from blowing away” department. Every day was a reminder that even in the worst situations, God can still work miracles.Of course, the crew had one big goal in mind: escape. And for that, they needed a boat. Now, building a boat from scraps isn’t exactly in Job Descriptions for Castaways, but Musgrave’s crew had something better: faith, determination, and a lot of spare time. They salvaged planks, nails, and even parts of the rigging from the Grafton to craft a seaworthy vessel.So, what’s the takeaway here? Well, it’s this: God doesn’t leave us without tools, even when the odds are stacked against us. Whether it’s turning a derelict ship into a hut, hunting seals on board the island, or dreaming of freedom on an ocean they couldn’t see, Musgrave and his crew kept the faith—and they kept going.This isn’t just a story of survival—it’s a celebration of faith, resilience, and the unstoppable grace of God at work in the human spirit. Oh, and if you’re the type who prefers reading over listening, we’ve got you covered with a PDF of Captain Musgrave’s incredible journey. Or, if you like the smell of fresh-printed pages, grab the book on Amazon.
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    59 mins
  • “Survival Movies: Captain Musgrave’s Forgotten Adventure Part 2

    “Survival Movies: Captain Musgrave’s Forgotten Adventure Part 2
    Dec 24 2024
    Survival: Captain Musgrave's Forgotten Adventure, Part TwoWelcome back! If you thought part one was wild, wait until you see how God's hand works in this next chapter. And If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, what are you waiting for? Click the link and get caught up! Captain Musgrave might be out of lifeboats, but he's never out of faith.No, we didn’t hire Morgan Freeman to narrate—turns out prayer doesn’t stretch the budget. But who needs him when you’ve got a story that gives all the glory to the Lord? So buckle up! This isn’t just survival; it’s a reminder that God’s grace is the ultimate life raft.Captain Musgrave’s survival after the wreck of the Grafton in 1864 is a powerful testament to perseverance and faith. Stranded on a desolate island, he and his crew faced relentless storms, dwindling provisions, and crushing isolation. Yet, through ingenuity, resourcefulness, and an unshakable reliance on divine providence, they endured months of hardship.The crew salvaged what little they could from the wreck, constructing shelter from the remains of the ship and adapting to their harsh surroundings. Seals became their primary source of food—though hunting them was often a perilous task. Musgrave’s leadership, rooted in fairness and unwavering faith, kept the crew’s morale intact despite the dire circumstances.Throughout their ordeal, Musgrave clung to hope, praying fervently for his family and for deliverance. His reflections reveal a profound reliance on faith, a guiding light through the uncertainty and isolation. In the end, their resourcefulness, determination, and trust in God’s provision would prove key to their survival.This isn’t just a story of survival—it’s a celebration of faith, resilience, and the unstoppable grace of God at work in the human spirit. Oh, and if you’re the type who prefers reading over listening, we’ve got you covered with a PDF of Captain Musgrave’s incredible journey. Or, if you like the smell of fresh-printed pages, grab the book on Amazon.Speaking of books, I highly recommend Island of the Lost: An Extraordinary Story of Survival at the Edge of the World. It’s not just an edge-of-your-seat tale; it’s a dual reminder of how faith and leadership—or the lack of them—can make or break us.The book tells the story of Captain Thomas Musgrave and another shipwreck that occurred at the same time on the same island—without either party knowing the other was there. On one end of Auckland Island, a harsh and desolate land 285 miles south of New Zealand, Musgrave’s schooner, The Grafton, wrecked. On the opposite end, the Invercauld ran aground. The crews were separated by just 20 miles and some impossible cliffs, but their stories couldn’t be more different.The Invercauld’s crew spiraled into chaos, infighting, and even cannibalism. It’s a chilling example of what happens when selfishness and despair take the wheel. But Musgrave’s crew? They pulled together, built a shelter and a forge, and—through faith, leadership, and sheer grit—found a way to survive and escape. It’s a reminder of Proverbs 29:18: “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”With journal entries and historical records, maritime historian Joan Druett brings these stories to life, showing us not just the drama of survival but the power of faith and unity in the face of impossible odds. If you’re ready to be inspired—and maybe even a little convicted—this is a story you don’t want to miss!
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    56 mins
  • Survival Movies: Captain Musgrave’s True Account

    Survival Movies: Captain Musgrave’s True Account
    Dec 23 2024
    Survival Movies and Survival Shows: A Faith-Filled Tale of EnduranceSurvival movies and survival shows often depict incredible stories of perseverance. Few, however, rival the remarkable true account of Captain Thomas Musgrave. A baptized member of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Kendal, England, Musgrave demonstrated extraordinary faith throughout his journey.Hi, and welcome to Old Time Preaching. My name is Tim. Last name? Well, I’m a nobody, so why does it matter? Just call me the Chief of the Nobodies.This site, podcast, YouTube channel—whatever medium I use—is not about me. It’s about giving glory to God and His son, Jesus Christ. I don’t ask for anything in return because I’m a slave to Christ—or as the Scriptures say, a Doulos. So, I work not for payment or recognition, but solely to bring glory to my Master.That being said, I have a real treat for those who love survival shows or stories of faith and endurance.This time, we're diving into an incredible survival story that combines both faith and grit. If you've ever been fascinated by shipwreck islands or real-life hardships that test the human spirit, you'll love this.Captain Musgrave's journey, as chronicled in his book Castaway on the Auckland Isles: A Narrative of the Wreck of the "Grafton," recounts how he and his crew endured being stranded on a desolate shipwreck island. What makes this story even more compelling is how faith and leadership played a pivotal role in their survival.A Voyage Turned TragedyMusgrave's final voyage as a ship's captain began on November 12, 1863, departing from Sydney on a prospecting and sealing expedition to Campbell Island and the Auckland Islands, south of New Zealand. Tragically, the journey took a dire turn when the ship was wrecked in Carnley Harbor, Auckland Island, in early January 1864.Stranded with a crew of five, Musgrave and his companions faced incredible challenges. Over time, they managed to refashion the ship's dinghy, and in July 1865, Musgrave and two others undertook a daring 400-kilometer voyage to Stewart Island to seek rescue.Musgrave later chronicled their harrowing ordeal in his memoir, Castaway on the Auckland Isles, offering a gripping account of survival and resilience.Now, let’s pause for a moment. Can you imagine today’s Methodists in a similar situation? Between debating which bathroom to use or rallying for gender-neutral shipwreck shelters, they’d be too busy to survive a day, let alone lead a crew to safety.Faced with brutal conditions, Musgrave relied on faith and unshakable determination to lead his crew through trials that tested both body and spirit.A Unique Survival JourneyFor enthusiasts of survival movies, Musgrave's journey offers more than just a popcorn-worthy tale of endurance. It's like the Methodist version of Die Hard—with extra prayer and no Bruce Willis. The story kicks off in Melbourne, Australia, where Musgrave and his crew set sail on what was supposed to be a straightforward voyage.Spoiler alert: It wasn’t.For history buffs seeking things to do in Melbourne, the city’s maritime museums offer a treasure trove of seafaring tales. Because nothing says relatable like imagining yourself on a leaky boat while clutching a Bible and trying not to freeze to death.Stranded on their shipwreck island, the crew faced uncertainty that could make even the toughest survival movies look like a picnic in the park. But Captain Musgrave didn’t just bring them hope—he brought them church.Every Sunday, with the flair of a pastor and the grit of a ship captain, Musgrave ensured Scripture was read, raising spirits and anchoring their hope. His faith-driven leadership didn’t just save their lives; it turned their ordeal into a survival tale that leaves other historical accounts looking like lukewarm reruns of survival shows.Exploring New Zealand's ConnectionsAdding to the intrigue are the geographical ties to New Zealand. If you’re pondering things to do in Auckland New Zealand,
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    56 mins