The Winning Response

The Winning Response

by Jennifer Matthews & Crystal Fleming
Christianity
Season 1

In Him We Are Adopted

Join Jen and Crystal as they explore the powerful theme of adoption in Christ and what it truly means to be a child of God. This conversation includes looking at the scriptural truths of being brought into God’s family, the deep intimacy believers can experience with God as their Father, and the vital role of the Holy Spirit in leading and empowering us. Jen and Crystal also discuss the freedom and assurance that comes from knowing we belong and the spiritual blessings that flow from being His adopted sons and daughters. Ephesians 1:5 (NIV) He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— John 1:12-13 (NIV) Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. 2 Corinthians 6:18 (ERV) I will be your father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord All-Powerful. Psalm 68:5-6 (ERV) God, who lives in his holy palace, is a father to orphans, and he takes care of widows. God provides homes for those who are lonely. He frees people from prison and makes them happy. But those who turn against him will live in the desert. Galatians 4:4-5 (ERV) But when the right time came, God sent his Son, who was born from a woman and lived under the law. 5 God did this so that he could buy the freedom of those who were under the law. God’s purpose was to make us his children. Psalm 27:10 (AMPC) Although my father and my mother have forsaken me, yet the Lord will take me up [adopt me as His child]. Psalm 139:13-16 (MSG) Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother’s womb. I thank you, High God—you’re breathtaking! Body and soul, I am marvelously made. I worship in adoration—what a creation! You know me inside and out, you know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something. Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth; all the stages of my life were spread out before you, The days of my life all prepared before I’d even lived one day. 1 John 3:1 (NIV) See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God! Romans 8: 12-14 (ESV) So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. Romans 8:15 (ESV) For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”
S1 · E48
Aug 8, 2025
27:56

In Him We Are Chosen

In this episode of The Winning Response Podcast, Jen and Crystal look at Ephesians chapter 1 to discover our identity in Christ. There are spiritual blessings available to believers, and this conversation explores what it means to be chosen by God and how that truth shapes our identity as new creations in Christ. Ephesians 1:3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In Christ, God has given us every spiritual blessing in heaven. Philippians 3: 3-14 (ERV) Ephesians 1:4 For he chose us in him before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight in love. John 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give it to you. Psalm 139: 1-13 (TLB) Romans 8: 28-33 (ERV) We know that in everything God works for the good of those who love him. These are the people God chose, because that was his plan. 29 God knew them before he made the world. And he decided that they would be like his Son. Then Jesus would be the firstborn of many brothers and sisters. 30 God planned for them to be like his Son. He chose them and made them right with him. And after he made them right, he gave them his glory. 31 So what should we say about this? If God is for us, no one can stand against us. And God is with us. 32 He even let his own Son suffer for us. God gave his Son for all of us. So now with Jesus, God will surely give us all things. 33 Who can accuse the people God has chosen? No one! God is the one who makes them right. 1 Peter 2:9-10 (TLB) But you are not like that, for you have been chosen by God himself—you are priests of the King, you are holy and pure, you are God’s very own—all this so that you may show to others how God called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were less than nothing; now you are God’s own. Once you knew very little of God’s kindness; now your very lives have been changed by it. Colossians 3: 12-15 (ERV) God has chosen you and made you his holy people. He loves you. So your new life should be like this: Show mercy to others. Be kind, humble, gentle, and patient. 13 Don’t be angry with each other, but forgive each other. If you feel someone has wronged you, forgive them. Forgive others because the Lord forgave you. 14 Together with these things, the most important part of your new life is to love each other. Love is what holds everything together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace that Christ gives control your thinking. It is for peace that you were chosen to be together in one body.[c] And always be thankful.
S1 · E47
Aug 1, 2025
26:12

In Him Introduction: Made a New Creation

In this foundational episode, Jen and Crystal explore what it truly means to be a new creation in Christ. Building on the truth that Jesus made us winners through His sacrifice, they look at the transformation that happens when we accept Jesus as Lord—how the old is gone, the new has come, and our identity is forever changed. Drawing from passages like 2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 12, and Colossians 1, Jen and Crystal lay a solid biblical foundation for living as a victorious believer. Through the powerful example of Paul’s radical transformation, they discuss how God's love, grace, and truth shape us into who He created us to be. This episode also highlights how renewing our minds, rejecting condemnation, and standing firm in God’s promises are key to walking out this new identity. If you've never made Jesus your Lord, you'll have the opportunity to pray a salvation prayer and begin your journey as a new creation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 1 Corinthians 6:11 (NKJV) And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. Colossians 1:21-23 (ERV) At one time you were separated from God. You were his enemies in your minds, because the evil you did was against him. But now he has made you his friends again. He did this by the death Christ suffered while he was in his body. He did it so that he could present you to himself as people who are holy, blameless, and without anything that would make you guilty before him. And that is what will happen if you continue to believe in the Good News you heard. You must remain strong and sure in your faith. You must not let anything cause you to give up the hope that became yours when you heard the Good News. That same Good News has been told to everyone on earth, and that’s the work that I, Paul, was given to do. Romans 12:1-2 NIV Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. 2 Corinthians 2: 4-5 (NKJV) For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,Casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalt itself against the knowledge of God. Acts 9:15 (NIV) But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. Ephesians 1:1-23 (ERV)
S1 · E46
Jul 25, 2025
22:10

Winning In Relationships: Josh and Amanda Goodman Discuss Keys To A Lasting Marriage

In this episode of The Winning Response, Josh and Amanda Goodman share heartfelt insights from their 28-year journey of marriage and their work in marriage ministry. Drawing from personal experience and years of mentoring couples, they discuss the keys to a lasting and fulfilling relationship—spiritual connection, forgiveness, communication, and the intentional pursuit of one another. They emphasize the power of prayer, the importance of rediscovering shared identity and purpose, and the foundational scriptures that have guided their walk together. Whether you’re preparing for marriage, facing challenges, or simply looking to grow in your relationship, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and practical tools from a couple deeply committed to helping others build strong, faith-filled marriages.
S1 · E45
Jul 18, 2025
49:27

Winning in Relationships: Cathy Marzen’s Testimony of Lasting Love

In this episode of The Winning Response Podcast, Jen and Crystal sit down with Cathy Marzen for a deeply moving conversation about her 54-year marriage to her husband, Jerome. Cathy opens up about the power of having relationship role models, the ups and downs faced together, and the wisdom gained through the years. She highlights the essential roles of faith, open communication, and mutual respect in building a lasting bond. The discussion also explores the foundational scriptures that anchored their journey, offering inspiration and practical insights for couples at every stage of their relationship.
S1 · E44
Jul 11, 2025
24:37

Winning In Relationships: Amber Harmon’s Testimony of Reconciliation

In this inspiring episode of The Winning Response, Amber Harmon shares her heartfelt testimony of restoration, redemption, and the power of unwavering faith. From the early struggles of marriage to the pain of divorce—and ultimately, to a miraculous reconciliation with her husband, Matt—Amber opens up about the deep healing that came through prayer, surrender, and trusting God's timing. Her story is a powerful reminder that no relationship is beyond God's reach and that forgiveness and grace can lead to a renewed love. This episode offers hope for anyone navigating challenges in their relationships and points to the transformative power of God’s love.
S1 · E43
Jul 4, 2025
34:14

Winning In Relationships: Kris Cala’s Testimony of Healing And Growth

In this episode of The Winning Response Podcast, Jen and Crystal sit down with life and business coach, Kris Cala for a heartfelt conversation about growth, faith, and transformation. Kris opens up about her personal journey through divorce, the emotional challenges she faced, and how her faith played a pivotal role in her healing. She shares how leaning on community and trusting in God helped her rebuild not only her life but also her purpose. Now the founder of The Wilderness Compass, Kris empowers others to navigate life's storms with courage and clarity. This inspiring episode explores the strength found in vulnerability, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and how sharing your story can lead to profound transformation.
S1 · E42
Jun 27, 2025
34:45

Winning In Relationships: Brenda Hart’s Testimony of Restoration

In this episode of The Winning Response, Jen and Crystal join Brenda Hart as she shares the emotional and spiritual journey of navigating betrayal, healing, and renewal. After discovering her previous husband's infidelity, Brenda shares how her faith in God anchored her through heartbreak and guided her toward peace and new beginnings. She speaks candidly about the power of trusting God in the midst of pain, embracing change, and finding purpose at every stage of life. Her story is one of restoration, hope, and the transformative grace of God.
S1 · E41
Jun 20, 2025
54:30

Winning In Relationships: Winning As One- The Power of Teamwork in Marriage

This week on The Winning Response, Jen and Crystal welcome back their husbands as they explore the intricate dynamics of marriage, shedding light on the values that keep a relationship strong—resilience, communication, and teamwork. Through personal stories and real-life insights, they unpack the importance of laughter in the home, mutual respect for each other’s roles, and creating a peaceful atmosphere. The conversation also highlights the power of having faith in God to help when facing challenges together. Diving deeper, they discuss the biblical foundations of marriage, the essential roles of husbands and wives, and the need for leadership, trust, and encouragement. With honesty and wisdom, they expose the subtle tactics that can threaten unity and offer strategies to help couples stand firm, support each other, and thrive in their God-given roles.
S1 · E40
Jun 13, 2025
29:50

Winning In Relationships: Our Stories

In this episode of The Winning Response, Jen and Crystal are joined by their husbands as they dive into an honest and inspiring conversation about love, growth, and the power of real connection. Sharing their own stories—how they met, the challenges that God has helped them overcome, and the lessons they've learned—they reflect on what it means to build a Godly, strong, lasting marriage . The conversation emphasizes how the transformative power of God can change hearts and restore relationships. With a focus on faith and resilience, both couples highlight how relationships can evolve and deepen over time. This episode is a reminder that every journey is unique—and growth, both personal and shared, is something to be celebrated.
S1 · E39
Jun 6, 2025
50:12
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