The Kingdom Cowboy Podcast

Summary

Jesus spoke about the keys of the Kingdom in Matthew 16:19, although Scripture does not give us a specific list of what all those keys are. In this conversation, Gabe and Andy discuss several important Kingdom principles, including love, faith, forgiveness, authority, and prayer.

The discussion centers especially on prayer as a key to the Kingdom. Prayer is more than bringing God a list of requests—it is communication and relationship with the Father. Andy shares the importance of taking time to sit in God’s presence with no agenda, learning to listen more than talk, and simply enjoying being with Him whether He speaks or not.

Prayer also becomes practical as believers exercise the authority Christ has given them, pray in Jesus’ name, agree together, and minister to those who need healing. There is no magic formula and prayer does not need to sound professional. We simply come to the Father, trust Him, listen to Him, and allow His Kingdom to be expressed through our lives.

Show Notes

• In Matthew 16:19, Jesus speaks about the keys of the Kingdom. Although the Bible does not provide a specific list of those keys, love, faith, forgiveness, authority, and prayer are discussed as important Kingdom principles.

• Jesus gave His people authority to bind and loose. Believers are called to exercise that authority rather than simply waiting for God to do what He has entrusted His people to do.

• The Kingdom of God exists in its fullness, but it becomes expressed in the natural as believers obey the Lord and respond to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

• Prayer is communication with the Father, and good communication involves both speaking and listening.

• Spending time with the Father without an agenda allows us to enjoy His presence and hear what is on His heart.

• Jesus gave His disciples a framework for prayer through the Lord’s Prayer, but prayer should never become merely legalistic or mechanical.

• Prayer can be simple and conversational. The Father is always accessible, whether we are sitting quietly with Him or talking with Him while going about our day.

• When praying for healing, believers can pray in Jesus’ name, stand in agreement with others, and exercise the authority Christ has given them.

• Prayer does not require a professional-sounding formula. We can simply come to the Father honestly and pray from the heart.

Quotes

• “For starters, that time with the Father—that’s the key. Everything important in our life comes out of that relationship and interaction with the Father.”

• “The enemy hates it when we say yes to the Lord, sign on for the Kingdom, and start to walk this stuff out.”

• “If I will listen, it cuts down the list of stuff I need to ask the Lord about.”

• “My listening versus my talking and asking the Lord is probably ninety to ninety-five percent listening and five percent asking.”

• “There’s just something to be said for taking the time to just sit and be with the Lord.”

• “The Father is always accessible. There’s never a time that He’s busy.”

• “There’s no magic formula to it. Just ask.”

• “It’s not if you pray; it’s when you pray.”

Scriptural References

Matthew 16:17-19 — Jesus gives the keys of the Kingdom and speaks of binding and loosing.

Matthew 6:9-13 — Jesus gives the Lord’s Prayer as a pattern for prayer.

Matthew 18:19 — Jesus speaks about the power of two people agreeing together in prayer.

3 John 2 — “That you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers.”

James 5:14-15 — The sick are encouraged to call for the elders of the church to pray over them.

Takeaway

Prayer is one of the great keys God has given us for living in His Kingdom. It is not meant to be complicated or reserved for people who know how to sound spiritual. Prayer begins with relationship—taking time to be with the Father, listening to Him, enjoying His presence, and learning what is on His heart.

As that relationship grows, prayer becomes a natural part of everyday life. We can speak with the Father anywhere and at any time, pray in Jesus’ name, stand in agreement with others, and exercise the authority Christ has given us. We do not need a magic formula. We simply come to Him, listen, believe, and allow His Kingdom to be expressed through us.

Summary:

Jesus came with all authority to die for us, love us, forgive us, and set us free from every sin and every chain that has held us. Through Him, we are made free to become true Kingdom people, walking in the authority He gives us as ambassadors for Him and stepping into the fullness of our destiny.

Show Notes:

• In Matthew 16, Jesus told Peter that He would give him the keys of the Kingdom. There is no actual list of these keys, but we feel that these are a few of the many keys Jesus left with us: love, faith, forgiveness, prayer, obedience, wisdom, and delegated authority.

• Peter was a great example of what many of us go through as Christians. We receive a revelation of Jesus and begin walking with Him. Then, before long, something comes up in our flesh that stops us in our tracks, much like Peter denying Jesus three times.

• Most of us would have a hard time recovering from an offense like that, but because of Peter’s close relationship with Jesus, he was delivered by the deep love, the agape love, that Jesus had for him. As we reach into a close relationship with Jesus and the Father, the same thing can happen to us that happened to Peter. Jesus loves us just as much as He loved Peter, and He will set us free just as He set Peter free, so that we can walk in everything the Father has for us.

Quotes:

• The exact same thing can happen in you, if you’re listening. If you have a failure like that, you need to have an encounter with the Lord. You need to get face to face with the Father, spend some time with Him and just talk to Him like He’s your best friend. Pour your heart out to Him and allow Him to fix that failure in you, so that doesn’t define you. We should be defined by our destiny, not by our past failures.

• We all are going to fail at this one more than once. But it’s a growing process.

 

References:

Matthew 16:17-19

Matthew 28:18

1 Corinthians 13

Takeaways:

Let’s not stop when we stumble or fail before the Lord. The Father will never leave us or forsake us. As we open ourselves to a deeper relationship with Him, He continues to cover us, forgive us, love us, and set us free so we can walk in the destiny He has placed before us.

Summary

This episode continues the discussion on signs and wonders by focusing on the “keys of the kingdom” that Jesus spoke of in Matthew 16. Andy explains that while Scripture does not give a complete list of these keys, love, faith, authority, binding and loosing, and forgiveness are clearly essential to walking in the Kingdom of God.

The main emphasis is that love is the master key. God’s agape love opens hearts, causes faith to work, and shapes believers into the image of Jesus. The conversation then moves into forgiveness as another major key of the Kingdom. Forgiveness is not just a feeling, but a choice that frees the heart, breaks the power of offense, and allows believers to become more like Christ. Andy emphasizes that unforgiveness can keep people bound, while choosing to forgive brings freedom, healing, and spiritual maturity.

Show Notes The Keys of the Kingdom

Andy begins with Matthew 16, where Jesus asks His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter’s revelation that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, becomes the foundation for Jesus’ statement about building His church and giving the keys of the Kingdom.

Binding and Loosing

Gabe asks Andy to explain the meaning of binding and loosing. Andy explains that binding is like tying something up and rendering it helpless. Spiritually, believers have authority to bind the works of the enemy, such as fear, doubt, and confusion, and loose the opposite, such as peace, faith, and a sound mind.

Love as the Master Key

Andy describes love as the key that opens people’s hearts and enables the other Kingdom keys to work properly. He emphasizes that God does not just have love; He is love. Love is the atmosphere of heaven and the evidence that believers are operating from the Father’s heart.

Faith as a Key of the Kingdom

Faith is another key. Andy points to Hebrews 11 and Romans 12 to show that every believer has been given a measure of faith. Faith grows when it is exercised, and God often tests faith in smaller things to prepare people for greater signs, wonders, and miracles.

Learning to Love Like Jesus

The conversation explores the difference between natural love and agape love. Andy explains that the love a parent has for a child gives a glimpse of how the Father loves us. But loving enemies, critics, or those who mistreat us requires the help of the Holy Spirit.

Forgiveness as a Kingdom Key

Forgiveness is presented as one of the most spiritual things a person can do. Andy explains that forgiveness is not a feeling but a choice. Sometimes that choice has to be made again and again until the heart is free.

The Freedom Forgiveness Brings

Unforgiveness keeps people bound, but forgiveness frees the heart. Andy emphasizes that when believers choose to forgive, they deny the flesh and become more like Jesus in that moment.

Key Quotes

• “Love is the master key.”

• “Every situation we’re in right now is an opportunity to learn how to love like Jesus loved.”

• “We have the authority and the power to right every wrong that we encounter on the path of our life.”

• “Faith is obviously one of the keys of the kingdom.”

• “God doesn’t have love. He is love.”

• “Forgiveness is not a feeling that you have; it’s a choice that you make.”

• “If you can’t forgive, you can’t be free.”

• “The moment you choose to forgive, you become like Jesus in that moment.”

• “Forgiveness is always right. It’s never wrong.”

• “Unforgiveness has kept a lot of people bound their entire lives.”

Scriptural References Jesus Gives the Keys of the Kingdom

Matthew 16 (13–19) Jesus asks His disciples who they say He is. Peter receives the revelation that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. Jesus then speaks of building His church and giving the keys of the Kingdom.

Binding and Loosing

Matthew 16 (19) Jesus speaks of binding and loosing, showing the authority given to His people to stand against the works of darkness and release the will of heaven.

The Enemy Comes to Steal, Kill, and Destroy

John 10 (10) Andy refers to the enemy’s purpose to steal, kill, and destroy, contrasted with Jesus coming to give life.

Authority Over the Enemy

1 Peter 5 (8) The enemy is described as walking about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

The Measure of Faith

Romans 12 (3) Andy refers to God giving each person a measure of faith, emphasizing that believers already have faith resident within them.

Faith Pleases God

Hebrews 11 (1–40) Andy highlights Hebrews 11 as the faith chapter, showing many examples of people who acted by faith.

God Is Love

1 John 4 (8) The statement that God does not simply have love, but is love, connects directly with the episode’s focus on agape love.

God’s Love Demonstrated Through Christ

Romans 5 (8) God demonstrated His love by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.

Love Your Enemies

Matthew 5 (44) Jesus commands His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them.

Forgiving Seventy Times Seven

Matthew 18 (21–22) Jesus teaches that forgiveness is not limited, but should be a continuing posture of the heart.

Being Conformed to the Image of Christ

Romans 8 (29) Andy connects love and forgiveness with the process of being conformed into the image of Jesus.

Takeaway

The keys of the Kingdom are not just spiritual concepts; they are meant to be lived. Love is the master key that opens the heart, faith enables believers to move with God, and forgiveness frees the soul from bondage. When we choose to love, forgive, and walk in the authority Christ has given us, we become more like Jesus and allow the Kingdom of God to work through our lives.

Summary

This episode focuses on the importance of signs and wonders in the life of the believer and the Church today. Andy Taylor explains that signs and wonders are not limited to biblical times but remain a vital part of God's Kingdom activity in the present. While acknowledging that many churches have become bound by tradition and religious routine, he emphasizes that God is increasing manifestations of the supernatural through believers who are willing to cultivate a genuine relationship with Him.

The discussion highlights that signs and wonders are not reserved for a select few in ministry but are available to every believer. Spiritual maturity, sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, and a willingness to hear and obey God's voice position Christians to participate in God's supernatural work. The conversation also explores the spiritual awakening occurring among younger generations and the need for church leaders to move beyond tradition and embrace fresh revelation from God. Ultimately, the speakers encourage listeners to pursue truth, seek intimacy with the Father, and expect God to work through ordinary people in extraordinary ways.

Show Notes Signs and Wonders Are Still Relevant Today

• Signs and wonders remain an active part of God's Kingdom.

• God continues to heal, deliver, and transform lives.

• The supernatural is increasing as believers become more receptive to the Holy Spirit.

Spiritual Maturity Prepares Us for the Supernatural

• God tests believers in natural circumstances before entrusting them with greater spiritual responsibility.

• Faithfulness in small things prepares believers for greater manifestations of God's power.

• Humility is essential when operating in signs and wonders.

The Greatest Miracle Is Salvation

• Physical miracles are important, but salvation remains the greatest supernatural work of God.

• Testimonies of people coming to Christ around the world demonstrate God's ongoing activity.

A Spiritual Awakening Among Young People

• Many young people are searching for truth and authenticity.

• This search is leading many back to Jesus and the Scriptures.

• God is stirring hearts and drawing a new generation into relationship with Him.

Tradition Can Limit Spiritual Growth

• Religious tradition often becomes a barrier to fresh revelation.

• Churches can become comfortable with routines and stop expecting God to move.

• Leaders must continually seek God's direction rather than relying solely on past practices.

Signs and Wonders Are for Every Believer

• Every Christian is created for a supernatural relationship with God.

• Signs and wonders are not reserved for pastors or ministry leaders.

• God desires to work through ordinary believers in everyday situations.

The Need for Apostolic Leadership

• Churches need leaders who can recognize stagnation and bring fresh vision.

• Apostolic influence helps churches remain aligned with God's current purposes.

• Healthy leadership listens to God's voice and responds to His direction.

God Uses Unexpected People

• Throughout history, God has chosen unlikely individuals to accomplish His purposes.

• God's power is revealed through those who are willing and obedient rather than naturally qualified.

• Christ in us is the hope of glory.

Key Quotes "God's testing you in the natural to see if He can trust you with the supernatural." "Whoever is faithful in a little, God will bless with more." "If you're really on an authentic search for truth, you're going to end up at Jesus." "We're all hardwired for the supernatural." "You're created for signs and wonders." "God loves to use the unqualified to do the impossible." "The church needs to get on board and listen to what God is saying." "The greatest miracle is the miracle of salvation." Scriptural References Mark 16 (17-18)

"And these signs shall follow them that believe..."

• Referenced as the foundation for believers operating in signs and wonders.

Luke 16 (10)

"He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much."

• Supports the teaching that faithfulness in small things prepares believers for greater responsibility.

John 10 (10)

"I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

• Used to describe the abundant life available through Christ.

Genesis 1 (1-31)

"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth..."

• Demonstrates God's supernatural nature and mankind being created in His image.

Ephesians 4 (11-13)

"And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers."

• Referenced in the discussion of apostolic leadership and the fivefold ministry.

Colossians 1 (27)

"Christ in you, the hope of glory."

• Highlights the source of God's supernatural work through believers.

Matthew 15 (6)

"Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition."

• Supports the warning against allowing religious tradition to hinder God's purposes.

Acts 2 (17)

"I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh..."

• Relates to the spiritual awakening and increase of God's activity in the last days.

Takeaway

Signs and wonders do not simply happen automatically—they flow through believers who cultivate a genuine relationship with God, listen to the Holy Spirit, and step out in faith. The greatest obstacle is often not a lack of God's power but a reliance on tradition that limits expectation. As believers pursue truth, mature spiritually, and remain open to God's voice, they position themselves to participate in the increasing manifestation of His Kingdom. God is looking for willing hearts, not perfect qualifications, and He delights in using ordinary people to reveal His extraordinary power.

Summary:

 

Signs and Wonders don’t just start falling out of the sky. They come via the Holy Spirit through those who are persistent and determined to activate their faith through a personnel, interactive relationship with the Father. They come because we, as believers, stop holding on to old church traditions and religion, and start getting before the Father to hear His voice and start doing what He tells us to do.

Show Notes:

• In several translations, it says in Romans 12:3, “as God has allotted to each the measure of faith.” What this means to many is that God has given to each of us the same measure of faith. It’s there. It’s resident in us, after we’re born again.

• There are presently 100’s of thousands coming to Christ outside of the normal church settings. This means that churches world-wide need to break out of their traditional, religious ways, wake up quickly, and start moving as part of this end time move that the Lord is bring forth now.

• In Bible Belt religion, getting saved is the end game. But for the kingdom person, that’s the starting point, to be developed into the person that God has called and purposed you to be. You can never fulfill your destiny if you’re not going to be interactive and relational with God, the Creator of the universe.

• Signs and wonders don’t just happen through you. It takes persistence and determination to activate your faith. This involves getting alone with God, listening for Him to start speaking to you and making that a priority.

• This is not an option for church leaders. They must start moving into what God is bringing in this day, finding their way to hear God’s voice and start conveying that to their people.

Quotes:

• God expects it out of the church and us as individual believers, that the greatest display, expression and manifestation of signs and wonders is happening now.

• There’s a God of miracles Who’s the same yesterday, today and forever. So, signs and wonders should have never tapered off down through the generations. They should have escalated. So it’s going to take some seriousness and determination to hear God in this season and start to move out in those things.

• If you want to get involved in signs and wonders, Ephesians 2:10 says, “We were created in Christ Jesus for good works.” This can be anything from praying with someone, to rebuking and binding up a demon, or even coming into a financial blessing that you needed.

References:

Romans 12 (3)

Ephesians 2 (10)

John 10 (27)

Takeaways:

God is moving faster now than the churches are moving. If we believers don’t start listening to the Father and doing what He wants us to do, the 100’s of thousands being saved currently won’t have anyone to show them what it means to have a real walk with God, or how to start moving into God’s Kingdom.