Nucleus (https://www.nucleus.church) https://feeds.nucleus.church/d96d9586c6be41a3bd44a4f03b5a572a yes e22fda48bf314bf286dea83bb1660019 Sermon Series Audio en Fri, 31 Oct 2025 09:41:48 -0400 Mon, 13 Jul 2026 09:43:43 -0400 gracefellowship.online https://cdn1.nucleus-cdn.church/church_0d42878f135e42b39771689559b38865/file_85012614408b4118a70f8aa8393fabb1/2024-02-19T19:43:32.113Z/uploads_erSkkdIvjFhXtcV9Ghy9pyPSHEaHhFhP0ITNEmkF.jpeg gracefellowship.online https://gracefellowship.online/media/podcast/288/feed.rss episodic Pastor Mark Lingenfelter Sermon Series Audio Sermon Series Audio ermons false false Pastor Mark Lingenfelter leamersvillegbc@icloud.com Summer in Psalms - Part 4 full podcastepisode_5e49246eed8e498aa8b623881b382e8a Sun, 12 Jul 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Summer in Psalms - Part 3 full podcastepisode_0096f7c9397949e986bbbc1491c7f3b1 Sun, 5 Jul 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Summer in Psalms - Part 2 full podcastepisode_1472c05c24ef4a8b9db6395bb8466280 Sun, 28 Jun 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Summer in the Psalms - Part 1 full podcastepisode_47b483758e1d4629941eb3f7c5114cb0 Sun, 21 Jun 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false End Time Prophecy - Part 9 full podcastepisode_07d0348edd354450ae8b76553c491cd4 Sun, 14 Jun 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false End Time Prophecy - Part 8 full podcastepisode_bca1a748a58746188702a736de90a773 Sun, 7 Jun 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false End Time Prophecy - Part 7 full podcastepisode_a1abe7dffde7480e8f4c68dadc6cfa45 Sun, 31 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false End Time Prophecy - Part 6 full podcastepisode_09a9d314c7a747dfabda171ef060903c Sun, 24 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false End Time Prophecy - Part 5 full podcastepisode_fb979a59af1a4eb181c8099da3049036 Sun, 17 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400
Titus 2:11-14 NIV

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

"Life is hard, but my FUTURE is so GOOD that my heart is filled with anticipation."

John 14:1-3 NIV

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 NIV

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

WHY does the Rapture matter?

1 Thessalonians 4:18 NIV

Therefore encourage one another with these words.

1 Thessalonians 5:10-11 NIV

He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

1 Corinthians 15:51-53 NIV

Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changedin a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Life is hard, but my future is so GOOD that my heart is filled with anticipation. "Encourage each other with these words."


Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Titus 2:11-14 NIV

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

"Life is hard, but my FUTURE is so GOOD that my heart is filled with anticipation."

John 14:1-3 NIV

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 NIV

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

WHY does the Rapture matter?

1 Thessalonians 4:18 NIV

Therefore encourage one another with these words.

1 Thessalonians 5:10-11 NIV

He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

1 Corinthians 15:51-53 NIV

Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changedin a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Life is hard, but my future is so GOOD that my heart is filled with anticipation. "Encourage each other with these words."


Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Titus 2:11-14 NIV

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

"Life is hard, but my FUTURE is so GOOD that my heart is filled with anticipation."

John 14:1-3 NIV

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 NIV

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep.For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

WHY does the Rapture matter?

1 Thessalonians 4:18 NIV

Therefore encourage one another with these words.

1 Thessalonians 5:10-11 NIV

He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

1 Corinthians 15:51-53 NIV

Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changedin a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Life is hard, but my future is so GOOD that my heart is filled with anticipation. "Encourage each other with these words."


Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false End Time Prophecy - Part 4 full podcastepisode_49968584e45d4978ab3379c6765257d4 Sun, 10 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400
Genesis 12:1-3 NIV

The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

2 Samuel 7:11-16 NIV

and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel. I will also give you rest from all your enemies. “ ‘The LORD declares to you that the LORD himself will establish a house for youWhen your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom.He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with a rod wielded by men, with floggings inflicted by human hands.But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you.Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.’ ”

Ezekiel 16:59-63 NIV

“ ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will deal with you as you deserve, because you have despised my oath by breaking the covenant.Yet I will remember the covenant I made with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you.Then you will remember your ways and be ashamed when you receive your sisters, both those who are older than you and those who are younger. I will give them to you as daughters, but not on the basis of my covenant with you.So I will establish my covenant with you, and you will know that I am the LORD.Then, when I make atonement for you for all you have done, you will remember and be ashamed and never again open your mouth because of your humiliation, declares the Sovereign LORD.’ ”

Jeremiah 31:31-34 NIV

“The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah.It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the LORD.“This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the LORD. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the LORD,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the LORD. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

Jeremiah 32:40-41 NIV

I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good to them, and I will inspire them to fear me, so that they will never turn away from me.I will rejoice in doing them good and will assuredly plant them in this land with all my heart and soul.

Romans 11:25-29 NIV

I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come inand in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written: “The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.And this is my covenant with them when I take away their sins.”As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchsfor God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.

Galatians 3:6-9 NIV

So also Abraham “believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”Understand, then, that those who have faith are children of Abraham.Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: “All nations will be blessed through you.”So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.


God doesn't make empty promises - He makes commitments that we can depend on.

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of Godnot by works, so that no one can boast.

John 10:28-29 NIV

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.

2 Corinthians 1:21-22 NIV

Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed usset his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

2 Corinthians 5:5 NIV

Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

Ephesians 1:13-14 NIV

And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spiritwho is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.

1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the deadand into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you

Romans 8:38-39 NIV

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powersneither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

For those who are struggling with the assurance of your salvation – stop measuring your salvation by your performance and instead anchor your confidence to God’s promise. Memorize one or more of the verses we heard today.

For those living in ongoing, unrepentant sin – God does not give up on you – but that doesn’t mean He’s ok with where you are or what you’re doing. If there is an area of disobedience or sin in your life – confess it, admit it to God without any excuses and repent – ask God for forgiveness and the strength to change.

For those who have not yet trusted Christ as your Savior – God is inviting you into a PROMISE – not based on what you do, but based on what Jesus has already done for you.




Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Genesis 12:1-3 NIV

The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

2 Samuel 7:11-16 NIV

and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel. I will also give you rest from all your enemies. “ ‘The LORD declares to you that the LORD himself will establish a house for youWhen your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom.He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with a rod wielded by men, with floggings inflicted by human hands.But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you.Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.’ ”

Ezekiel 16:59-63 NIV

“ ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will deal with you as you deserve, because you have despised my oath by breaking the covenant.Yet I will remember the covenant I made with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you.Then you will remember your ways and be ashamed when you receive your sisters, both those who are older than you and those who are younger. I will give them to you as daughters, but not on the basis of my covenant with you.So I will establish my covenant with you, and you will know that I am the LORD.Then, when I make atonement for you for all you have done, you will remember and be ashamed and never again open your mouth because of your humiliation, declares the Sovereign LORD.’ ”

Jeremiah 31:31-34 NIV

“The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah.It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the LORD.“This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the LORD. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the LORD,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the LORD. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

Jeremiah 32:40-41 NIV

I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good to them, and I will inspire them to fear me, so that they will never turn away from me.I will rejoice in doing them good and will assuredly plant them in this land with all my heart and soul.

Romans 11:25-29 NIV

I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come inand in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written: “The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.And this is my covenant with them when I take away their sins.”As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchsfor God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.

Galatians 3:6-9 NIV

So also Abraham “believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”Understand, then, that those who have faith are children of Abraham.Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: “All nations will be blessed through you.”So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.


God doesn't make empty promises - He makes commitments that we can depend on.

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of Godnot by works, so that no one can boast.

John 10:28-29 NIV

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.

2 Corinthians 1:21-22 NIV

Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed usset his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

2 Corinthians 5:5 NIV

Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

Ephesians 1:13-14 NIV

And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spiritwho is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.

1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the deadand into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you

Romans 8:38-39 NIV

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powersneither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

For those who are struggling with the assurance of your salvation – stop measuring your salvation by your performance and instead anchor your confidence to God’s promise. Memorize one or more of the verses we heard today.

For those living in ongoing, unrepentant sin – God does not give up on you – but that doesn’t mean He’s ok with where you are or what you’re doing. If there is an area of disobedience or sin in your life – confess it, admit it to God without any excuses and repent – ask God for forgiveness and the strength to change.

For those who have not yet trusted Christ as your Savior – God is inviting you into a PROMISE – not based on what you do, but based on what Jesus has already done for you.




Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Genesis 12:1-3 NIV

The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

2 Samuel 7:11-16 NIV

and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel. I will also give you rest from all your enemies. “ ‘The LORD declares to you that the LORD himself will establish a house for youWhen your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom.He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.I will be his father, and he will be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with a rod wielded by men, with floggings inflicted by human hands.But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you.Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.’ ”

Ezekiel 16:59-63 NIV

“ ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I will deal with you as you deserve, because you have despised my oath by breaking the covenant.Yet I will remember the covenant I made with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish an everlasting covenant with you.Then you will remember your ways and be ashamed when you receive your sisters, both those who are older than you and those who are younger. I will give them to you as daughters, but not on the basis of my covenant with you.So I will establish my covenant with you, and you will know that I am the LORD.Then, when I make atonement for you for all you have done, you will remember and be ashamed and never again open your mouth because of your humiliation, declares the Sovereign LORD.’ ”

Jeremiah 31:31-34 NIV

“The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah.It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the LORD.“This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the LORD. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the LORD,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the LORD. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

Jeremiah 32:40-41 NIV

I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good to them, and I will inspire them to fear me, so that they will never turn away from me.I will rejoice in doing them good and will assuredly plant them in this land with all my heart and soul.

Romans 11:25-29 NIV

I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come inand in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written: “The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.And this is my covenant with them when I take away their sins.”As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies for your sake; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchsfor God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.

Galatians 3:6-9 NIV

So also Abraham “believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”Understand, then, that those who have faith are children of Abraham.Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: “All nations will be blessed through you.”So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.


God doesn't make empty promises - He makes commitments that we can depend on.

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of Godnot by works, so that no one can boast.

John 10:28-29 NIV

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.

2 Corinthians 1:21-22 NIV

Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed usset his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

2 Corinthians 5:5 NIV

Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

Ephesians 1:13-14 NIV

And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spiritwho is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.

1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the deadand into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you

Romans 8:38-39 NIV

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powersneither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

For those who are struggling with the assurance of your salvation – stop measuring your salvation by your performance and instead anchor your confidence to God’s promise. Memorize one or more of the verses we heard today.

For those living in ongoing, unrepentant sin – God does not give up on you – but that doesn’t mean He’s ok with where you are or what you’re doing. If there is an area of disobedience or sin in your life – confess it, admit it to God without any excuses and repent – ask God for forgiveness and the strength to change.

For those who have not yet trusted Christ as your Savior – God is inviting you into a PROMISE – not based on what you do, but based on what Jesus has already done for you.




Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false End Time Prophecy - Part 3 full podcastepisode_d900f50c745140b6bf347f0c4f574322 Sun, 3 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400
Genesis 12:1-3 NIV

The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

God doesn't make empty promises - He makes commitments that we can depend on.

A COVENANT is an agreement between two parties.

A conditional covenant is an agreement that is binding on both parties – both must fulfill certain conditions or the covenant is broken.

An unconditional covenant is an agreement between two parties, but only ONE party has responsibilities to fulfill the promises made. Think of it as a FORMAL and SACRED PROMISE that one person makes to another.

Genesis 13:14-17 NIV

The LORD said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, “Look around from where you are, to the north and south, to the east and west.All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever.I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted.Go, walk through the length and breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.”

Genesis 17:7-8 NIV

I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you.The whole land of Canaan, where you now reside as a foreigner, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and your descendants after you; and I will be their God.”

Three Important Features of the Abrahamic Covenant
1. God's Covenant with Abraham declared a PROMISE.
(Genesis 12:1-3)

2. God's Covenant with Abraham was LITERAL, UNILATERAL & UNCONDITIONAL.
(Genesis 15:8-18)

3. God's Covenant to Abraham was ETERNAL.
(Genesis 50:24)

Genesis 15:8-18 NIV

But Abram said, “Sovereign LORD, how can I know that I will gain possession of it?”So the LORD said to him, “Bring me a heifer, a goat and a ram, each three years old, along with a dove and a young pigeon.”Abram brought all these to him, cut them in two and arranged the halves opposite each other; the birds, however, he did not cut in half.Then birds of prey came down on the carcasses, but Abram drove them away.As the sun was setting, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a thick and dreadful darkness came over him.Then the LORD said to him, “Know for certain that for four hundred years your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own and that they will be enslaved and mistreated there.But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves, and afterward they will come out with great possessions.You, however, will go to your ancestors in peace and be buried at a good old age.In the fourth generation your descendants will come back here, for the sin of the Amorites has not yet reached its full measure.”When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch appeared and passed between the pieces.On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram and said, “To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates



Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Genesis 12:1-3 NIV

The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

God doesn't make empty promises - He makes commitments that we can depend on.

A COVENANT is an agreement between two parties.

A conditional covenant is an agreement that is binding on both parties – both must fulfill certain conditions or the covenant is broken.

An unconditional covenant is an agreement between two parties, but only ONE party has responsibilities to fulfill the promises made. Think of it as a FORMAL and SACRED PROMISE that one person makes to another.

Genesis 13:14-17 NIV

The LORD said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, “Look around from where you are, to the north and south, to the east and west.All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever.I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted.Go, walk through the length and breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.”

Genesis 17:7-8 NIV

I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you.The whole land of Canaan, where you now reside as a foreigner, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and your descendants after you; and I will be their God.”

Three Important Features of the Abrahamic Covenant
1. God's Covenant with Abraham declared a PROMISE.
(Genesis 12:1-3)

2. God's Covenant with Abraham was LITERAL, UNILATERAL & UNCONDITIONAL.
(Genesis 15:8-18)

3. God's Covenant to Abraham was ETERNAL.
(Genesis 50:24)

Genesis 15:8-18 NIV

But Abram said, “Sovereign LORD, how can I know that I will gain possession of it?”So the LORD said to him, “Bring me a heifer, a goat and a ram, each three years old, along with a dove and a young pigeon.”Abram brought all these to him, cut them in two and arranged the halves opposite each other; the birds, however, he did not cut in half.Then birds of prey came down on the carcasses, but Abram drove them away.As the sun was setting, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a thick and dreadful darkness came over him.Then the LORD said to him, “Know for certain that for four hundred years your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own and that they will be enslaved and mistreated there.But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves, and afterward they will come out with great possessions.You, however, will go to your ancestors in peace and be buried at a good old age.In the fourth generation your descendants will come back here, for the sin of the Amorites has not yet reached its full measure.”When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch appeared and passed between the pieces.On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram and said, “To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates



Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Genesis 12:1-3 NIV

The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

God doesn't make empty promises - He makes commitments that we can depend on.

A COVENANT is an agreement between two parties.

A conditional covenant is an agreement that is binding on both parties – both must fulfill certain conditions or the covenant is broken.

An unconditional covenant is an agreement between two parties, but only ONE party has responsibilities to fulfill the promises made. Think of it as a FORMAL and SACRED PROMISE that one person makes to another.

Genesis 13:14-17 NIV

The LORD said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, “Look around from where you are, to the north and south, to the east and west.All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever.I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted.Go, walk through the length and breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you.”

Genesis 17:7-8 NIV

I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you.The whole land of Canaan, where you now reside as a foreigner, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and your descendants after you; and I will be their God.”

Three Important Features of the Abrahamic Covenant
1. God's Covenant with Abraham declared a PROMISE.
(Genesis 12:1-3)

2. God's Covenant with Abraham was LITERAL, UNILATERAL & UNCONDITIONAL.
(Genesis 15:8-18)

3. God's Covenant to Abraham was ETERNAL.
(Genesis 50:24)

Genesis 15:8-18 NIV

But Abram said, “Sovereign LORD, how can I know that I will gain possession of it?”So the LORD said to him, “Bring me a heifer, a goat and a ram, each three years old, along with a dove and a young pigeon.”Abram brought all these to him, cut them in two and arranged the halves opposite each other; the birds, however, he did not cut in half.Then birds of prey came down on the carcasses, but Abram drove them away.As the sun was setting, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a thick and dreadful darkness came over him.Then the LORD said to him, “Know for certain that for four hundred years your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own and that they will be enslaved and mistreated there.But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves, and afterward they will come out with great possessions.You, however, will go to your ancestors in peace and be buried at a good old age.In the fourth generation your descendants will come back here, for the sin of the Amorites has not yet reached its full measure.”When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch appeared and passed between the pieces.On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram and said, “To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates



Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false End Time Prophecy - Part 2 full podcastepisode_521b832d768c4cf18beca45b9a2d4ddf Sun, 26 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0400
2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

Leviticus 14:47-49 NLT

and all who sleep or eat in the house must wash their clothing.“But if the priest returns for his inspection and finds that the mildew has not reappeared in the house after the fresh plastering, he will pronounce it clean because the mildew is clearly gone.To purify the house the priest must take two birds, a stick of cedar, some scarlet yarn, and a hyssop branch.

"You can't apply God's Word if you don't understand God's Word."

Nehemiah 8:7-12 NIV

The Levites—Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan and Pelaiah—instructed the people in the Law while the people were standing there.They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read.Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the LORD your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”The Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be still, for this is a holy day. Do not grieve.”Then all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with great joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them.

Luke 7:1-13 NIV

When Jesus had finished saying all this to the people who were listening, he entered Capernaum.There a centurion’s servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die.The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant.When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, “This man deserves to have you do thisbecause he loves our nation and has built our synagogue.”So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof.That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed.For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.”Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him.As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her.When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.”

What does a "Literal Approach" to interpretation of Scripture mean?

A Literal approach to interpretation finds meaning in what is written the same way we find meaning in Conversation.
(Genesis 17:8; John 1:29; Revelation 1:1)

A Literal approach to interpretation finds meaning in what was originally intended by the original author in the original context.
(Ephesians 6:10-12)

CHALLENGE: Take 10 minutes each day to read a chapter from Daniel or Revelation and study it like a detective. Ask good questions. If you don't have Bible study tools use Gotquestions.org as a help.
THEN apply one action, one attitude, one change rooted in what you learned from the study of God's Word.

Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online
]]>
2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

Leviticus 14:47-49 NLT

and all who sleep or eat in the house must wash their clothing.“But if the priest returns for his inspection and finds that the mildew has not reappeared in the house after the fresh plastering, he will pronounce it clean because the mildew is clearly gone.To purify the house the priest must take two birds, a stick of cedar, some scarlet yarn, and a hyssop branch.

"You can't apply God's Word if you don't understand God's Word."

Nehemiah 8:7-12 NIV

The Levites—Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan and Pelaiah—instructed the people in the Law while the people were standing there.They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read.Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the LORD your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”The Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be still, for this is a holy day. Do not grieve.”Then all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with great joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them.

Luke 7:1-13 NIV

When Jesus had finished saying all this to the people who were listening, he entered Capernaum.There a centurion’s servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die.The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant.When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, “This man deserves to have you do thisbecause he loves our nation and has built our synagogue.”So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof.That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed.For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.”Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him.As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her.When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.”

What does a "Literal Approach" to interpretation of Scripture mean?

A Literal approach to interpretation finds meaning in what is written the same way we find meaning in Conversation.
(Genesis 17:8; John 1:29; Revelation 1:1)

A Literal approach to interpretation finds meaning in what was originally intended by the original author in the original context.
(Ephesians 6:10-12)

CHALLENGE: Take 10 minutes each day to read a chapter from Daniel or Revelation and study it like a detective. Ask good questions. If you don't have Bible study tools use Gotquestions.org as a help.
THEN apply one action, one attitude, one change rooted in what you learned from the study of God's Word.

Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online
]]>
2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

Leviticus 14:47-49 NLT

and all who sleep or eat in the house must wash their clothing.“But if the priest returns for his inspection and finds that the mildew has not reappeared in the house after the fresh plastering, he will pronounce it clean because the mildew is clearly gone.To purify the house the priest must take two birds, a stick of cedar, some scarlet yarn, and a hyssop branch.

"You can't apply God's Word if you don't understand God's Word."

Nehemiah 8:7-12 NIV

The Levites—Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan and Pelaiah—instructed the people in the Law while the people were standing there.They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read.Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, “This day is holy to the LORD your God. Do not mourn or weep.” For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law.Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.”The Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be still, for this is a holy day. Do not grieve.”Then all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with great joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them.

Luke 7:1-13 NIV

When Jesus had finished saying all this to the people who were listening, he entered Capernaum.There a centurion’s servant, whom his master valued highly, was sick and about to die.The centurion heard of Jesus and sent some elders of the Jews to him, asking him to come and heal his servant.When they came to Jesus, they pleaded earnestly with him, “This man deserves to have you do thisbecause he loves our nation and has built our synagogue.”So Jesus went with them. He was not far from the house when the centurion sent friends to say to him: “Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof.That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed.For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he comes. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”When Jesus heard this, he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith even in Israel.”Then the men who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant well.Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him.As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her.When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.”

What does a "Literal Approach" to interpretation of Scripture mean?

A Literal approach to interpretation finds meaning in what is written the same way we find meaning in Conversation.
(Genesis 17:8; John 1:29; Revelation 1:1)

A Literal approach to interpretation finds meaning in what was originally intended by the original author in the original context.
(Ephesians 6:10-12)

CHALLENGE: Take 10 minutes each day to read a chapter from Daniel or Revelation and study it like a detective. Ask good questions. If you don't have Bible study tools use Gotquestions.org as a help.
THEN apply one action, one attitude, one change rooted in what you learned from the study of God's Word.

Bible Study Help
This is a great Bible study tool. Just type in any question you have and you'll get a Bible based answer.
https://www.gotquestions.org/

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online
]]> false End Time Prophecy - Part 1 full podcastepisode_de940a06e3924ef8b567062853a3d9c3 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0400
2 Peter 1:19 NIV

We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

Revelation 1:3 NIV

Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

"Bible prophecy isn't meant to confuse you - it's meant to change you."

3 Great Benefits to Understanding Bible Prophecy

1. Understanding Bible Prophecy CONFIRMS God's Word is TRUE.

2. Understanding Bible Prophecy MOTIVATES believers to live HOLY LIVES.

3. Understanding Bible Prophecy BUILDS a life of CONFIDENCE.

2 Peter 1:16 NIV

For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.

2 Peter 1:19-21 NIV

We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things.For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

Luke 24:13-27 NIV

Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem.They were talking with each other about everything that had happened.As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with thembut they were kept from recognizing him.He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” They stood still, their faces downcast.One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”“What things?” he asked. “About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people.The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified himbut we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place.In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morningbut didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive.Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken!Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?”And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

1 John 2:28 NIV

And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.

Matthew 24:36-51 NIV

Titus 2:11-14 NIV

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present agewhile we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christwho gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

Isaiah 42:2-9 NIV

Isaiah 46:9-10 NIV

Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’

Revelation 1:3 NIV

Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

Revelation 19:6-9 NIV

Revelation 21:1-4 NIV

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
2 Peter 1:19 NIV

We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

Revelation 1:3 NIV

Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

"Bible prophecy isn't meant to confuse you - it's meant to change you."

3 Great Benefits to Understanding Bible Prophecy

1. Understanding Bible Prophecy CONFIRMS God's Word is TRUE.

2. Understanding Bible Prophecy MOTIVATES believers to live HOLY LIVES.

3. Understanding Bible Prophecy BUILDS a life of CONFIDENCE.

2 Peter 1:16 NIV

For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.

2 Peter 1:19-21 NIV

We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things.For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

Luke 24:13-27 NIV

Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem.They were talking with each other about everything that had happened.As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with thembut they were kept from recognizing him.He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” They stood still, their faces downcast.One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”“What things?” he asked. “About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people.The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified himbut we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place.In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morningbut didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive.Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken!Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?”And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

1 John 2:28 NIV

And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.

Matthew 24:36-51 NIV

Titus 2:11-14 NIV

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present agewhile we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christwho gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

Isaiah 42:2-9 NIV

Isaiah 46:9-10 NIV

Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’

Revelation 1:3 NIV

Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

Revelation 19:6-9 NIV

Revelation 21:1-4 NIV

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
2 Peter 1:19 NIV

We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

Revelation 1:3 NIV

Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

"Bible prophecy isn't meant to confuse you - it's meant to change you."

3 Great Benefits to Understanding Bible Prophecy

1. Understanding Bible Prophecy CONFIRMS God's Word is TRUE.

2. Understanding Bible Prophecy MOTIVATES believers to live HOLY LIVES.

3. Understanding Bible Prophecy BUILDS a life of CONFIDENCE.

2 Peter 1:16 NIV

For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.

2 Peter 1:19-21 NIV

We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things.For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

Luke 24:13-27 NIV

Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem.They were talking with each other about everything that had happened.As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with thembut they were kept from recognizing him.He asked them, “What are you discussing together as you walk along?” They stood still, their faces downcast.One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, “Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?”“What things?” he asked. “About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people.The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified himbut we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place.In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morningbut didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive.Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.”He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken!Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?”And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.

1 John 2:28 NIV

And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.

Matthew 24:36-51 NIV

Titus 2:11-14 NIV

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present agewhile we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christwho gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

Isaiah 42:2-9 NIV

Isaiah 46:9-10 NIV

Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’

Revelation 1:3 NIV

Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.

Revelation 19:6-9 NIV

Revelation 21:1-4 NIV

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false The Road to Easter - Part 4 full podcastepisode_6f774575d2994687a42914e1f6984ed7 Sun, 5 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0400
John 20:1-9 NIV

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb.Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in.Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying thereas well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)

Jesus Changes Everything!

1. Jesus Changes Sorrow into Joy (John 20:10-18)

2.Jesus Changes Fear into Peace (John 20:19-23)

3.Jesus Changes Doubts into Faith (John 20:24-29)

4.Jesus Changes Sinners into Forgiven Followers (John 21:15-19)

John 20:10-29 NIV

Then the disciples went back to where they were staying.Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomband saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.”At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.”Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”).Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ”Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came.So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”


John 21:15-19 NIV

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.”Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”


Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
John 20:1-9 NIV

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb.Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in.Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying thereas well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)

Jesus Changes Everything!

1. Jesus Changes Sorrow into Joy (John 20:10-18)

2.Jesus Changes Fear into Peace (John 20:19-23)

3.Jesus Changes Doubts into Faith (John 20:24-29)

4.Jesus Changes Sinners into Forgiven Followers (John 21:15-19)

John 20:10-29 NIV

Then the disciples went back to where they were staying.Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomband saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.”At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.”Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”).Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ”Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came.So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”


John 21:15-19 NIV

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.”Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”


Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
John 20:1-9 NIV

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb.Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in.Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying thereas well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)

Jesus Changes Everything!

1. Jesus Changes Sorrow into Joy (John 20:10-18)

2.Jesus Changes Fear into Peace (John 20:19-23)

3.Jesus Changes Doubts into Faith (John 20:24-29)

4.Jesus Changes Sinners into Forgiven Followers (John 21:15-19)

John 20:10-29 NIV

Then the disciples went back to where they were staying.Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomband saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.”At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.”Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”).Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ”Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her.On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came.So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”


John 21:15-19 NIV

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.”Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”


Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false Encompass World Partners - Launchpad Antioch full podcastepisode_bf5563338c3e4e5f8cc322f8c27604b6 Sun, 12 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0400
Mike Yoder from Encompass World Partners


Visit our Website:
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https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Mike Yoder from Encompass World Partners


Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Mike Yoder from Encompass World Partners


Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false The Road to Easter, Part 1 full podcastepisode_d4c98ae66a014630a8734ed71ea2e153 Sun, 15 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0400
Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false The Road to Easter - Part 3 full podcastepisode_79487b1adc2f456591a468e9e6a564e9 Sun, 29 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0400
John 12:12-16 NIV

The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem.They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!”Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written“Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.”At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that these things had been done to him.

Isaiah 52:7-10 NIV

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices; together they shout for joy. When the LORD returns to Zion, they will see it with their own eyes.Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the LORD has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem.The LORD will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God.

Isaiah 53:1-10 NIV

Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted.But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished.He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.Yet it was the LORD’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.

Jesus is a different kind of KING!

Jesus is a King of PEACE and COMPASSION!

John 12:14-15 NIV

Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written“Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.”

Zechariah 9:9-10 NIV

Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the warhorses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth.

Matthew 10:32-37 NIV

“Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.For I have come to turn “ ‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-lawa man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.’“Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

John 14:27 NIV

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Luke 19:28-42 NIV

After Jesus had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem.As he approached Bethphage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them“Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it.’ ”Those who were sent ahead went and found it just as he had told them.As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, “Why are you untying the colt?”They replied, “The Lord needs it.”They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it.As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road.When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples!”“I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over itand said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.

IS JESUS YOUR KING?

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Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
John 12:12-16 NIV

The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem.They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!”Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written“Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.”At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that these things had been done to him.

Isaiah 52:7-10 NIV

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices; together they shout for joy. When the LORD returns to Zion, they will see it with their own eyes.Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the LORD has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem.The LORD will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God.

Isaiah 53:1-10 NIV

Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted.But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished.He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.Yet it was the LORD’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.

Jesus is a different kind of KING!

Jesus is a King of PEACE and COMPASSION!

John 12:14-15 NIV

Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written“Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.”

Zechariah 9:9-10 NIV

Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the warhorses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth.

Matthew 10:32-37 NIV

“Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.For I have come to turn “ ‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-lawa man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.’“Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

John 14:27 NIV

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Luke 19:28-42 NIV

After Jesus had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem.As he approached Bethphage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them“Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it.’ ”Those who were sent ahead went and found it just as he had told them.As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, “Why are you untying the colt?”They replied, “The Lord needs it.”They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it.As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road.When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples!”“I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over itand said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.

IS JESUS YOUR KING?

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
John 12:12-16 NIV

The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem.They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!”Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written“Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.”At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that these things had been done to him.

Isaiah 52:7-10 NIV

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices; together they shout for joy. When the LORD returns to Zion, they will see it with their own eyes.Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the LORD has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem.The LORD will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God.

Isaiah 53:1-10 NIV

Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted.But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished.He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.Yet it was the LORD’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.

Jesus is a different kind of KING!

Jesus is a King of PEACE and COMPASSION!

John 12:14-15 NIV

Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written“Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.”

Zechariah 9:9-10 NIV

Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the warhorses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth.

Matthew 10:32-37 NIV

“Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.“Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.For I have come to turn “ ‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-lawa man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.’“Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

John 14:27 NIV

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Luke 19:28-42 NIV

After Jesus had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem.As he approached Bethphage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them“Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it.’ ”Those who were sent ahead went and found it just as he had told them.As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, “Why are you untying the colt?”They replied, “The Lord needs it.”They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it.As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road.When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples!”“I tell you,” he replied, “if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over itand said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.

IS JESUS YOUR KING?

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false The Road to Easter, Part 2 full podcastepisode_1965caa5df4e4b9ba0fd0775c9cdf4e8 Sun, 22 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0400
Part 2 - "Was that Friday Good?"

John 18:14 NIV

Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jewish leaders that it would be good if one man died for the people.

John 11:47-49 NIV

Then the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin. “What are we accomplishing?” they asked. “Here is this man performing many signs.If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and then the Romans will come and take away both our temple and our nation.”Then one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all!

Good Friday was "good" because Jesus made it GOOD!

3 Reasons why the death of Jesus was GOOD...

1. The death of Jesus was "good" because He broke the curse of sin.

2. The death of Jesus was "good" because He sent the Holy Spirit.

3. The death of Jesus was "good" because He became our High Priest.

John 18:1-14 NIV

When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was a garden, and he and his disciples went into it.Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples.So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons.Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?”“Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.)When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground.Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they said.Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. If you are looking for me, then let these men go.”This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: “I have not lost one of those you gave me.”Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.)Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?”Then the detachment of soldiers with its commander and the Jewish officials arrested Jesus. They bound himand brought him first to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year.Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jewish leaders that it would be good if one man died for the people.

Genesis 3:6-8 NIV

When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden.

Galatians 3:13-14 NIV

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.”He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.

John 16:7 NIV

But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.

Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulnessgentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Matthew 27:50-51 NIV

And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split

Hebrews 4:14-16 NIV

Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Was the Friday Good?

YES!

Good Friday was "good" because Jesus made it GOOD!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Part 2 - "Was that Friday Good?"

John 18:14 NIV

Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jewish leaders that it would be good if one man died for the people.

John 11:47-49 NIV

Then the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin. “What are we accomplishing?” they asked. “Here is this man performing many signs.If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and then the Romans will come and take away both our temple and our nation.”Then one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all!

Good Friday was "good" because Jesus made it GOOD!

3 Reasons why the death of Jesus was GOOD...

1. The death of Jesus was "good" because He broke the curse of sin.

2. The death of Jesus was "good" because He sent the Holy Spirit.

3. The death of Jesus was "good" because He became our High Priest.

John 18:1-14 NIV

When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was a garden, and he and his disciples went into it.Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples.So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons.Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?”“Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.)When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground.Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they said.Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. If you are looking for me, then let these men go.”This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: “I have not lost one of those you gave me.”Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.)Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?”Then the detachment of soldiers with its commander and the Jewish officials arrested Jesus. They bound himand brought him first to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year.Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jewish leaders that it would be good if one man died for the people.

Genesis 3:6-8 NIV

When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden.

Galatians 3:13-14 NIV

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.”He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.

John 16:7 NIV

But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.

Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulnessgentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Matthew 27:50-51 NIV

And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split

Hebrews 4:14-16 NIV

Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Was the Friday Good?

YES!

Good Friday was "good" because Jesus made it GOOD!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Part 2 - "Was that Friday Good?"

John 18:14 NIV

Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jewish leaders that it would be good if one man died for the people.

John 11:47-49 NIV

Then the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin. “What are we accomplishing?” they asked. “Here is this man performing many signs.If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and then the Romans will come and take away both our temple and our nation.”Then one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all!

Good Friday was "good" because Jesus made it GOOD!

3 Reasons why the death of Jesus was GOOD...

1. The death of Jesus was "good" because He broke the curse of sin.

2. The death of Jesus was "good" because He sent the Holy Spirit.

3. The death of Jesus was "good" because He became our High Priest.

John 18:1-14 NIV

When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was a garden, and he and his disciples went into it.Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples.So Judas came to the garden, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and the Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons.Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, “Who is it you want?”“Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “I am he,” Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.)When Jesus said, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground.Again he asked them, “Who is it you want?” “Jesus of Nazareth,” they said.Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. If you are looking for me, then let these men go.”This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: “I have not lost one of those you gave me.”Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.)Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?”Then the detachment of soldiers with its commander and the Jewish officials arrested Jesus. They bound himand brought him first to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year.Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jewish leaders that it would be good if one man died for the people.

Genesis 3:6-8 NIV

When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden.

Galatians 3:13-14 NIV

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.”He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.

John 16:7 NIV

But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.

Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulnessgentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Matthew 27:50-51 NIV

And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split

Hebrews 4:14-16 NIV

Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Was the Friday Good?

YES!

Good Friday was "good" because Jesus made it GOOD!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false The Unseen War - Part 10 full podcastepisode_7ddb3b0c4d6847539fd9263ec2e5c9b0 Sun, 8 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0400
Colossians 2:13-15

Colossians 1:11-13 NIV

being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patienceand giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves

We can live with confidence because Christ has set us FREE!

Colossians 2:6-15 NIV

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in himrooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily formand in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off when you were circumcised by Christhaving been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sinshaving canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

Three ways our new life "in Christ" has set us FREE and how that reality impacts our daily lives.

1. Christ has set us FREE from DEATH. (Colossians 2:13a)

2. Christ has set us FREE from SIN (Colossians 2:13b-14)

3. Christ has set us FREE from the power of EVIL (Colossians 2:15)

Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.

Galatians 5:1 NIV

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

Romans 8:1 NIV

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus

James 4:7 NIV

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

1 John 4:4 NIV

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

"I can live with confidence because Christ has set me FREE!"

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Colossians 2:13-15

Colossians 1:11-13 NIV

being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patienceand giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves

We can live with confidence because Christ has set us FREE!

Colossians 2:6-15 NIV

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in himrooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily formand in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off when you were circumcised by Christhaving been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sinshaving canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

Three ways our new life "in Christ" has set us FREE and how that reality impacts our daily lives.

1. Christ has set us FREE from DEATH. (Colossians 2:13a)

2. Christ has set us FREE from SIN (Colossians 2:13b-14)

3. Christ has set us FREE from the power of EVIL (Colossians 2:15)

Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.

Galatians 5:1 NIV

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

Romans 8:1 NIV

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus

James 4:7 NIV

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

1 John 4:4 NIV

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

"I can live with confidence because Christ has set me FREE!"

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

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https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
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]]>
Colossians 2:13-15

Colossians 1:11-13 NIV

being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patienceand giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves

We can live with confidence because Christ has set us FREE!

Colossians 2:6-15 NIV

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in himrooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily formand in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off when you were circumcised by Christhaving been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sinshaving canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross.And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

Three ways our new life "in Christ" has set us FREE and how that reality impacts our daily lives.

1. Christ has set us FREE from DEATH. (Colossians 2:13a)

2. Christ has set us FREE from SIN (Colossians 2:13b-14)

3. Christ has set us FREE from the power of EVIL (Colossians 2:15)

Ephesians 6:10-11 NIV

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.

Galatians 5:1 NIV

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

Romans 8:1 NIV

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus

James 4:7 NIV

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

1 John 4:4 NIV

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

"I can live with confidence because Christ has set me FREE!"

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false The Unseen War, Part 6 full podcastepisode_3cea5c93cca4460184cb9b089e468f68 Sun, 8 Feb 2026 05:30:00 -0400
Revelation 12:1-17

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]]>
Revelation 12:1-17

Visit our Website:
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Give Online:
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Prayer Requests:
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]]>
Revelation 12:1-17

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https://www.gracefellowship.online

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https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false The Unseen War, Part 4 full podcastepisode_b7d1822e07044ce69ed48f3ae1f3b6f1 Sun, 25 Jan 2026 05:30:00 -0400
Revelation 19:1-21

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]]>
Revelation 19:1-21

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https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Revelation 19:1-21

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false The Unseen War, Part 5 full podcastepisode_7cc17449d94e4d1b8c1e65c5c3801fd8 Sun, 1 Feb 2026 05:30:00 -0400
Matthew 4:1-11 NIV

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple.“If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor.“All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

Three Reminders from the example of Jesus to help us have consistent victory over temptation:

1. Jesus‘ example reminds us that we need God’s provision (Matthew 3-4)

2. Jesus’ example reminds us that God can be trusted.
(Matthew 4:5-7)

3. Jesus‘ example reminds us that God is enough to satisfy us. (Matthew 4:8-11)

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Matthew 4:1-11 NIV

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple.“If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor.“All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

Three Reminders from the example of Jesus to help us have consistent victory over temptation:

1. Jesus‘ example reminds us that we need God’s provision (Matthew 3-4)

2. Jesus’ example reminds us that God can be trusted.
(Matthew 4:5-7)

3. Jesus‘ example reminds us that God is enough to satisfy us. (Matthew 4:8-11)

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Matthew 4:1-11 NIV

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil.After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple.“If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’”Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor.“All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

Three Reminders from the example of Jesus to help us have consistent victory over temptation:

1. Jesus‘ example reminds us that we need God’s provision (Matthew 3-4)

2. Jesus’ example reminds us that God can be trusted.
(Matthew 4:5-7)

3. Jesus‘ example reminds us that God is enough to satisfy us. (Matthew 4:8-11)

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false The Unseen War - Part 3 full podcastepisode_fe9c9c911aa346248d96b309b885272d Sun, 18 Jan 2026 05:30:00 -0400
Hebrews 1 & 2
]]>
Hebrews 1 & 2
]]>
Hebrews 1 & 2
]]> false The Unseen War, Part 2 full podcastepisode_2626fe9647784a72a2cf75c91223b71d Sun, 11 Jan 2026 05:30:00 -0400
Acts 12:1-17
]]>
Acts 12:1-17
]]>
Acts 12:1-17
]]> false Same God, New You full podcastepisode_50a7c0712a2c4a40a6bbc8b6f11a2852 Sun, 28 Dec 2025 05:30:00 -0400
New Years message Dec 28, 2025

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
New Years message Dec 28, 2025

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
New Years message Dec 28, 2025

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false Journey to the Nativity, Part 4 full podcastepisode_87f8e1ff244549f797e847079546f2fa Sun, 21 Dec 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Part 4 - "Learning to Expect God to do the Unexpected."

Luke 2:8-20 NIV

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this childand all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

We can EXPECT God to do the UNEXPECTED!

God DOES the UNEXPECTED to demonstrate His glory!
(Luke 2:9, 14-15, 20)

God RECONCILES the UNEXPECTED for His glory!
(Luke 2:10-14)

God USES the UNEXPECTED for His glory!
(Luke 2:8-9, 16-18, 20)

Ephesians 2:11-22 NIV

Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostilityby setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

Colossians 1:21-22 NIV

Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior.But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliationthat God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

What would it look like to EXPECT God to do the UNEXPECTED in YOUR life?

Challenge: This week, pray on simple prayer each morning, "God, I am available. I You want to interrupt my plans today, I'm listening."


Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Part 4 - "Learning to Expect God to do the Unexpected."

Luke 2:8-20 NIV

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this childand all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

We can EXPECT God to do the UNEXPECTED!

God DOES the UNEXPECTED to demonstrate His glory!
(Luke 2:9, 14-15, 20)

God RECONCILES the UNEXPECTED for His glory!
(Luke 2:10-14)

God USES the UNEXPECTED for His glory!
(Luke 2:8-9, 16-18, 20)

Ephesians 2:11-22 NIV

Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostilityby setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

Colossians 1:21-22 NIV

Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior.But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliationthat God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

What would it look like to EXPECT God to do the UNEXPECTED in YOUR life?

Challenge: This week, pray on simple prayer each morning, "God, I am available. I You want to interrupt my plans today, I'm listening."


Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Part 4 - "Learning to Expect God to do the Unexpected."

Luke 2:8-20 NIV

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this childand all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

We can EXPECT God to do the UNEXPECTED!

God DOES the UNEXPECTED to demonstrate His glory!
(Luke 2:9, 14-15, 20)

God RECONCILES the UNEXPECTED for His glory!
(Luke 2:10-14)

God USES the UNEXPECTED for His glory!
(Luke 2:8-9, 16-18, 20)

Ephesians 2:11-22 NIV

Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostilityby setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

Colossians 1:21-22 NIV

Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior.But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliationthat God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

What would it look like to EXPECT God to do the UNEXPECTED in YOUR life?

Challenge: This week, pray on simple prayer each morning, "God, I am available. I You want to interrupt my plans today, I'm listening."


Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false Journey to the Nativity, Part 3 full podcastepisode_e578944fff7747fc9d69d12c4bb671d1 Sun, 14 Dec 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Matthew 2:1-12 NIV

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalemand asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born.“In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written“ ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’”Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared.He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was.When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.

Numbers 24:17 NIV

“I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel. He will crush the foreheads of Moab, the skulls of all the people of Sheth.

Daniel 9:24-27 NIV

“Seventy ‘sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the Most Holy Place.“Know and understand this: From the time the word goes out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven ‘sevens,’ and sixty-two ‘sevens.’ It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble.After the sixty-two ‘sevens,’ the Anointed One will be put to death and will have nothing. The people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end will come like a flood: War will continue until the end, and desolations have been decreed.He will confirm a covenant with many for one ‘seven.’ In the middle of the ‘seven’ he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And at the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

The Christmas Star reminds us that God calls and uses people you would never expect.

The Christmas Star reminds us that there is a big difference between knowing what Scripture says and doing something about it.

Romans 3:23-24 NIV

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of Godand all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of Godnot by works, so that no one can boast.For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

2 Timothy 4:3-4 NIV

For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.

Don’t just LOOK at the CHRISTMAS STAR this morning! Do something about it!

Be honest about one thing in your life that God’s Word speaks about, and you know you need to do something about it = and then DO IT!

Write it down, ask God to help you do it, share it with someone you trust and ask them to hold you accountable to do it.
]]>
Matthew 2:1-12 NIV

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalemand asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born.“In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written“ ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’”Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared.He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was.When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.

Numbers 24:17 NIV

“I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel. He will crush the foreheads of Moab, the skulls of all the people of Sheth.

Daniel 9:24-27 NIV

“Seventy ‘sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the Most Holy Place.“Know and understand this: From the time the word goes out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven ‘sevens,’ and sixty-two ‘sevens.’ It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble.After the sixty-two ‘sevens,’ the Anointed One will be put to death and will have nothing. The people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end will come like a flood: War will continue until the end, and desolations have been decreed.He will confirm a covenant with many for one ‘seven.’ In the middle of the ‘seven’ he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And at the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

The Christmas Star reminds us that God calls and uses people you would never expect.

The Christmas Star reminds us that there is a big difference between knowing what Scripture says and doing something about it.

Romans 3:23-24 NIV

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of Godand all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of Godnot by works, so that no one can boast.For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

2 Timothy 4:3-4 NIV

For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.

Don’t just LOOK at the CHRISTMAS STAR this morning! Do something about it!

Be honest about one thing in your life that God’s Word speaks about, and you know you need to do something about it = and then DO IT!

Write it down, ask God to help you do it, share it with someone you trust and ask them to hold you accountable to do it.
]]>
Matthew 2:1-12 NIV

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalemand asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born.“In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written“ ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’”Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared.He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was.When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.

Numbers 24:17 NIV

“I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel. He will crush the foreheads of Moab, the skulls of all the people of Sheth.

Daniel 9:24-27 NIV

“Seventy ‘sevens’ are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the Most Holy Place.“Know and understand this: From the time the word goes out to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until the Anointed One, the ruler, comes, there will be seven ‘sevens,’ and sixty-two ‘sevens.’ It will be rebuilt with streets and a trench, but in times of trouble.After the sixty-two ‘sevens,’ the Anointed One will be put to death and will have nothing. The people of the ruler who will come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. The end will come like a flood: War will continue until the end, and desolations have been decreed.He will confirm a covenant with many for one ‘seven.’ In the middle of the ‘seven’ he will put an end to sacrifice and offering. And at the temple he will set up an abomination that causes desolation, until the end that is decreed is poured out on him.”

The Christmas Star reminds us that God calls and uses people you would never expect.

The Christmas Star reminds us that there is a big difference between knowing what Scripture says and doing something about it.

Romans 3:23-24 NIV

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of Godand all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of Godnot by works, so that no one can boast.For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

2 Timothy 4:3-4 NIV

For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.

Don’t just LOOK at the CHRISTMAS STAR this morning! Do something about it!

Be honest about one thing in your life that God’s Word speaks about, and you know you need to do something about it = and then DO IT!

Write it down, ask God to help you do it, share it with someone you trust and ask them to hold you accountable to do it.
]]> false Journey to the Nativity, Part 2 full podcastepisode_c19f6ab5e8174e028b9f0c74b0620c7d Sun, 7 Dec 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Luke 2:1-7 NIV

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world.(This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.)And everyone went to their own town to register.So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David.He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.While they were there, the time came for the baby to be bornand she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

Matthew 2:13 NIV

When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”

Micah 5:2 NIV

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”

Why does the journey of life have to be so a hard?
Three Biblical Reasons

1. To teach us that our journey is only a small part of a greater story.

2. To teach us that we can trust God's divine plans are for our good.

3. To develop our faith.

Philippians 2:6-11 NIV

Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantagerather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every namethat at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earthand every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Ephesians 1:4-6 NIV

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In lovehe predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and willto the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves.

John 17:24 NIV

“Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.


1 Corinthians 2:7 NIV

No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began.

2 Timothy 1:8-10 NIV

So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of timebut it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

Romans 8:28 NIV

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Genesis 12:1-5 NIV

The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”So Abram went, as the LORD had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Harran.He took his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, all the possessions they had accumulated and the people they had acquired in Harran, and they set out for the land of Canaan, and they arrived there.

James 1:2-5 NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kindsbecause you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

How do you need to respond to God this morning as you reflect on your journey through life?

Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Luke 2:1-7 NIV

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world.(This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.)And everyone went to their own town to register.So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David.He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.While they were there, the time came for the baby to be bornand she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

Matthew 2:13 NIV

When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”

Micah 5:2 NIV

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”

Why does the journey of life have to be so a hard?
Three Biblical Reasons

1. To teach us that our journey is only a small part of a greater story.

2. To teach us that we can trust God's divine plans are for our good.

3. To develop our faith.

Philippians 2:6-11 NIV

Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantagerather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every namethat at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earthand every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Ephesians 1:4-6 NIV

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In lovehe predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and willto the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves.

John 17:24 NIV

“Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.


1 Corinthians 2:7 NIV

No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began.

2 Timothy 1:8-10 NIV

So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of timebut it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

Romans 8:28 NIV

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Genesis 12:1-5 NIV

The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”So Abram went, as the LORD had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Harran.He took his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, all the possessions they had accumulated and the people they had acquired in Harran, and they set out for the land of Canaan, and they arrived there.

James 1:2-5 NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kindsbecause you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

How do you need to respond to God this morning as you reflect on your journey through life?

Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Luke 2:1-7 NIV

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world.(This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.)And everyone went to their own town to register.So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David.He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.While they were there, the time came for the baby to be bornand she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

Matthew 2:13 NIV

When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”

Micah 5:2 NIV

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”

Why does the journey of life have to be so a hard?
Three Biblical Reasons

1. To teach us that our journey is only a small part of a greater story.

2. To teach us that we can trust God's divine plans are for our good.

3. To develop our faith.

Philippians 2:6-11 NIV

Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantagerather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every namethat at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earthand every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Ephesians 1:4-6 NIV

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In lovehe predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and willto the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves.

John 17:24 NIV

“Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.


1 Corinthians 2:7 NIV

No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began.

2 Timothy 1:8-10 NIV

So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of timebut it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

Romans 8:28 NIV

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Genesis 12:1-5 NIV

The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.“I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”So Abram went, as the LORD had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Harran.He took his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, all the possessions they had accumulated and the people they had acquired in Harran, and they set out for the land of Canaan, and they arrived there.

James 1:2-5 NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kindsbecause you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

How do you need to respond to God this morning as you reflect on your journey through life?

Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false Journey to the Nativity - Part 1 full podcastepisode_28392ddd90e54ab6b6d5335248e5cb0c Sun, 30 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Praise in Every Season, Part 10 full podcastepisode_ce293703623640ada4b24be61b9ebd59 Sun, 23 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Psalms 10:1-18 NIV

Why, LORD, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises.He boasts about the cravings of his heart; he blesses the greedy and reviles the LORD.In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.His ways are always prosperous; your laws are rejected by him; he sneers at all his enemies.He says to himself, “Nothing will ever shake me.” He swears, “No one will ever do me harm.”His mouth is full of lies and threats; trouble and evil are under his tongue.He lies in wait near the villages; from ambush he murders the innocent. His eyes watch in secret for his victimslike a lion in cover he lies in wait. He lies in wait to catch the helpless; he catches the helpless and drags them off in his net.His victims are crushed, they collapse; they fall under his strength.He says to himself, “God will never notice; he covers his face and never sees.”Arise, LORD! Lift up your hand, O God. Do not forget the helpless.Why does the wicked man revile God? Why does he say to himself, “He won’t call me to account”?But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their grief and take it in hand. The victims commit themselves to you; you are the helper of the fatherless.Break the arm of the wicked man; call the evildoer to account for his wickedness that would not otherwise be found out.The LORD is King for ever and ever; the nations will perish from his land.You, LORD, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.

Who are the wicked?
Psalm 10:2-11, 13

Why does God "feel far away" or seem indifferent in times of trouble?

What should we do when the wicked prosper and harm us?
Psalm 10:12, 14-18

Titus 1:16 NIV

They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good.

2 Timothy 4:3 NIV

For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.

2 Peter 3:9 NIV

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Romans 8:28 NIV

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Galatians 5:5 NIV

For through the Spirit we eagerly await by faith the righteousness for which we hope.

Romans 8:23-24 NIV

Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?

Hebrews 9:27-28 NIV

Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgmentso Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

NEXT STEP: Trade your frustration for faith-filled prayer. Instead of letting anger, fear, or discouragement dominate your heart when you see the wicked prosper or when injustice touches your life, choose to trade your frustration for faith-filled prayer. Asking the Lord to help, to intervene and to come back quickly.
]]>
Psalms 10:1-18 NIV

Why, LORD, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises.He boasts about the cravings of his heart; he blesses the greedy and reviles the LORD.In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.His ways are always prosperous; your laws are rejected by him; he sneers at all his enemies.He says to himself, “Nothing will ever shake me.” He swears, “No one will ever do me harm.”His mouth is full of lies and threats; trouble and evil are under his tongue.He lies in wait near the villages; from ambush he murders the innocent. His eyes watch in secret for his victimslike a lion in cover he lies in wait. He lies in wait to catch the helpless; he catches the helpless and drags them off in his net.His victims are crushed, they collapse; they fall under his strength.He says to himself, “God will never notice; he covers his face and never sees.”Arise, LORD! Lift up your hand, O God. Do not forget the helpless.Why does the wicked man revile God? Why does he say to himself, “He won’t call me to account”?But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their grief and take it in hand. The victims commit themselves to you; you are the helper of the fatherless.Break the arm of the wicked man; call the evildoer to account for his wickedness that would not otherwise be found out.The LORD is King for ever and ever; the nations will perish from his land.You, LORD, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.

Who are the wicked?
Psalm 10:2-11, 13

Why does God "feel far away" or seem indifferent in times of trouble?

What should we do when the wicked prosper and harm us?
Psalm 10:12, 14-18

Titus 1:16 NIV

They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good.

2 Timothy 4:3 NIV

For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.

2 Peter 3:9 NIV

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Romans 8:28 NIV

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Galatians 5:5 NIV

For through the Spirit we eagerly await by faith the righteousness for which we hope.

Romans 8:23-24 NIV

Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?

Hebrews 9:27-28 NIV

Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgmentso Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

NEXT STEP: Trade your frustration for faith-filled prayer. Instead of letting anger, fear, or discouragement dominate your heart when you see the wicked prosper or when injustice touches your life, choose to trade your frustration for faith-filled prayer. Asking the Lord to help, to intervene and to come back quickly.
]]>
Psalms 10:1-18 NIV

Why, LORD, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?In his arrogance the wicked man hunts down the weak, who are caught in the schemes he devises.He boasts about the cravings of his heart; he blesses the greedy and reviles the LORD.In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God.His ways are always prosperous; your laws are rejected by him; he sneers at all his enemies.He says to himself, “Nothing will ever shake me.” He swears, “No one will ever do me harm.”His mouth is full of lies and threats; trouble and evil are under his tongue.He lies in wait near the villages; from ambush he murders the innocent. His eyes watch in secret for his victimslike a lion in cover he lies in wait. He lies in wait to catch the helpless; he catches the helpless and drags them off in his net.His victims are crushed, they collapse; they fall under his strength.He says to himself, “God will never notice; he covers his face and never sees.”Arise, LORD! Lift up your hand, O God. Do not forget the helpless.Why does the wicked man revile God? Why does he say to himself, “He won’t call me to account”?But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their grief and take it in hand. The victims commit themselves to you; you are the helper of the fatherless.Break the arm of the wicked man; call the evildoer to account for his wickedness that would not otherwise be found out.The LORD is King for ever and ever; the nations will perish from his land.You, LORD, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.

Who are the wicked?
Psalm 10:2-11, 13

Why does God "feel far away" or seem indifferent in times of trouble?

What should we do when the wicked prosper and harm us?
Psalm 10:12, 14-18

Titus 1:16 NIV

They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good.

2 Timothy 4:3 NIV

For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.

2 Peter 3:9 NIV

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Romans 8:28 NIV

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Galatians 5:5 NIV

For through the Spirit we eagerly await by faith the righteousness for which we hope.

Romans 8:23-24 NIV

Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?

Hebrews 9:27-28 NIV

Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgmentso Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

NEXT STEP: Trade your frustration for faith-filled prayer. Instead of letting anger, fear, or discouragement dominate your heart when you see the wicked prosper or when injustice touches your life, choose to trade your frustration for faith-filled prayer. Asking the Lord to help, to intervene and to come back quickly.
]]> false Praise in Every Season, Part 9 full podcastepisode_936a9218164f467999ba85b7219290b2 Sun, 16 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Psalms 9:1-20 NIV

I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.My enemies turn back; they stumble and perish before you.For you have upheld my right and my cause, sitting enthroned as the righteous judge.You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked; you have blotted out their name for ever and ever.Endless ruin has overtaken my enemies, you have uprooted their cities; even the memory of them has perished.The LORD reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment.He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity.The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.Sing the praises of the LORD, enthroned in Zion; proclaim among the nations what he has done.For he who avenges blood remembers; he does not ignore the cries of the afflicted.LORD, see how my enemies persecute me! Have mercy and lift me up from the gates of deaththat I may declare your praises in the gates of Daughter Zion, and there rejoice in your salvation.The nations have fallen into the pit they have dug; their feet are caught in the net they have hidden.The LORD is known by his acts of justice; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands.The wicked go down to the realm of the dead, all the nations that forget God.But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish.Arise, LORD, do not let mortals triumph; let the nations be judged in your presence.Strike them with terror, LORD; let the nations know they are only mortal.

"A heart dependent on God results in a life of gratitude."

4 Actions to help maintain a heart dependent on God when life is unfair:

1. Remember that God is always faithful. (Psalm 9:1-6)

2. Run to God for refuge. (Psalm 9:7-10)

3. Rely on God for justice. (Psalm 9:11-16)

4. Rejoice in our secure future. (Psalm 9:17-20)

NEXT STEPS: This week, take one situation in your life that feels unfair, unjust, uncertain, or overwhelming. Then write your own short “Psalm” — two or three lines — that begins:“Lord, You are my Righteous Judge…”

Share your lament with God and then finish it with praise.
Maybe: “You’ve been faithful before, and I trust You now.”
Or: “You reign even when I can’t see it.”
]]>
Psalms 9:1-20 NIV

I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.My enemies turn back; they stumble and perish before you.For you have upheld my right and my cause, sitting enthroned as the righteous judge.You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked; you have blotted out their name for ever and ever.Endless ruin has overtaken my enemies, you have uprooted their cities; even the memory of them has perished.The LORD reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment.He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity.The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.Sing the praises of the LORD, enthroned in Zion; proclaim among the nations what he has done.For he who avenges blood remembers; he does not ignore the cries of the afflicted.LORD, see how my enemies persecute me! Have mercy and lift me up from the gates of deaththat I may declare your praises in the gates of Daughter Zion, and there rejoice in your salvation.The nations have fallen into the pit they have dug; their feet are caught in the net they have hidden.The LORD is known by his acts of justice; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands.The wicked go down to the realm of the dead, all the nations that forget God.But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish.Arise, LORD, do not let mortals triumph; let the nations be judged in your presence.Strike them with terror, LORD; let the nations know they are only mortal.

"A heart dependent on God results in a life of gratitude."

4 Actions to help maintain a heart dependent on God when life is unfair:

1. Remember that God is always faithful. (Psalm 9:1-6)

2. Run to God for refuge. (Psalm 9:7-10)

3. Rely on God for justice. (Psalm 9:11-16)

4. Rejoice in our secure future. (Psalm 9:17-20)

NEXT STEPS: This week, take one situation in your life that feels unfair, unjust, uncertain, or overwhelming. Then write your own short “Psalm” — two or three lines — that begins:“Lord, You are my Righteous Judge…”

Share your lament with God and then finish it with praise.
Maybe: “You’ve been faithful before, and I trust You now.”
Or: “You reign even when I can’t see it.”
]]>
Psalms 9:1-20 NIV

I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.My enemies turn back; they stumble and perish before you.For you have upheld my right and my cause, sitting enthroned as the righteous judge.You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked; you have blotted out their name for ever and ever.Endless ruin has overtaken my enemies, you have uprooted their cities; even the memory of them has perished.The LORD reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment.He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity.The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.Those who know your name trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.Sing the praises of the LORD, enthroned in Zion; proclaim among the nations what he has done.For he who avenges blood remembers; he does not ignore the cries of the afflicted.LORD, see how my enemies persecute me! Have mercy and lift me up from the gates of deaththat I may declare your praises in the gates of Daughter Zion, and there rejoice in your salvation.The nations have fallen into the pit they have dug; their feet are caught in the net they have hidden.The LORD is known by his acts of justice; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands.The wicked go down to the realm of the dead, all the nations that forget God.But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish.Arise, LORD, do not let mortals triumph; let the nations be judged in your presence.Strike them with terror, LORD; let the nations know they are only mortal.

"A heart dependent on God results in a life of gratitude."

4 Actions to help maintain a heart dependent on God when life is unfair:

1. Remember that God is always faithful. (Psalm 9:1-6)

2. Run to God for refuge. (Psalm 9:7-10)

3. Rely on God for justice. (Psalm 9:11-16)

4. Rejoice in our secure future. (Psalm 9:17-20)

NEXT STEPS: This week, take one situation in your life that feels unfair, unjust, uncertain, or overwhelming. Then write your own short “Psalm” — two or three lines — that begins:“Lord, You are my Righteous Judge…”

Share your lament with God and then finish it with praise.
Maybe: “You’ve been faithful before, and I trust You now.”
Or: “You reign even when I can’t see it.”
]]> false Praise in Every Season, Part 8 full podcastepisode_241f9bf8a3704783af4c8bc9d952d72d Sun, 9 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Psalms 8:1-9 NIV

LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens.Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in placewhat is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor.You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet all flocks and herds, and the animals of the wild the birds in the sky, and the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas.LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!

"Life only makes sense when you see the majesty of God"

1. God's majesty is seen in all He created. (Psalm 8:1-3)

2. God's majesty is seen in how He cares for humans over all He created. (Psalm 8:4)

3. God's majesty is seen in all He gave us in His creation. (Psalm 8:5-8)

Colossians 1:16 NIV

For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.

Romans 1:20 NIV

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.

Psalm 8:2 ESV

Out of the mouth of babies and infants, you have established strength because of your foes, to still the enemy and the avenger.

Matthew 10:29-31 NIV

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Go outside this week– take a walk – take time to admire God’s creation and stand in awe of his MAJESTY. Make a point to share with someone your admiration for God’s creation – “Wow! God has created a beautiful world for us to live in”.

Consider how you are doing as a steward over all God has entrusted into your care. Are you treating others as humans “made in the image of God”? Are you using your time, talent, treasure to glorify God and bring beauty to other people’s lives.

“O Lord, our Lord how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
]]>
Psalms 8:1-9 NIV

LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens.Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in placewhat is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor.You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet all flocks and herds, and the animals of the wild the birds in the sky, and the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas.LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!

"Life only makes sense when you see the majesty of God"

1. God's majesty is seen in all He created. (Psalm 8:1-3)

2. God's majesty is seen in how He cares for humans over all He created. (Psalm 8:4)

3. God's majesty is seen in all He gave us in His creation. (Psalm 8:5-8)

Colossians 1:16 NIV

For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.

Romans 1:20 NIV

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.

Psalm 8:2 ESV

Out of the mouth of babies and infants, you have established strength because of your foes, to still the enemy and the avenger.

Matthew 10:29-31 NIV

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Go outside this week– take a walk – take time to admire God’s creation and stand in awe of his MAJESTY. Make a point to share with someone your admiration for God’s creation – “Wow! God has created a beautiful world for us to live in”.

Consider how you are doing as a steward over all God has entrusted into your care. Are you treating others as humans “made in the image of God”? Are you using your time, talent, treasure to glorify God and bring beauty to other people’s lives.

“O Lord, our Lord how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
]]>
Psalms 8:1-9 NIV

LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens.Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger.When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in placewhat is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor.You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet all flocks and herds, and the animals of the wild the birds in the sky, and the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas.LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!

"Life only makes sense when you see the majesty of God"

1. God's majesty is seen in all He created. (Psalm 8:1-3)

2. God's majesty is seen in how He cares for humans over all He created. (Psalm 8:4)

3. God's majesty is seen in all He gave us in His creation. (Psalm 8:5-8)

Colossians 1:16 NIV

For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.

Romans 1:20 NIV

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.

Psalm 8:2 ESV

Out of the mouth of babies and infants, you have established strength because of your foes, to still the enemy and the avenger.

Matthew 10:29-31 NIV

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Go outside this week– take a walk – take time to admire God’s creation and stand in awe of his MAJESTY. Make a point to share with someone your admiration for God’s creation – “Wow! God has created a beautiful world for us to live in”.

Consider how you are doing as a steward over all God has entrusted into your care. Are you treating others as humans “made in the image of God”? Are you using your time, talent, treasure to glorify God and bring beauty to other people’s lives.

“O Lord, our Lord how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
]]> false Praise In Every Season, Part 7 full podcastepisode_a8a3146702244a149268ebe166a1cc85 Sun, 2 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0400
LORD my God, I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue meor they will tear me apart like a lion and rip me to pieces with no one to rescue me.LORD my God, if I have done this and there is guilt on my handsif I have repaid my ally with evil or without cause have robbed my foethen let my enemy pursue and overtake me; let him trample my life to the ground and make me sleep in the dust.Arise, LORD, in your anger; rise up against the rage of my enemies. Awake, my God; decree justice.Let the assembled peoples gather around you, while you sit enthroned over them on high.Let the LORD judge the peoples. Vindicate me, LORD, according to my righteousness, according to my integrity, O Most High.Bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure— you, the righteous God who probes minds and hearts.My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart.God is a righteous judge, a God who displays his wrath every day.If he does not relent, he will sharpen his sword; he will bend and string his bow.He has prepared his deadly weapons; he makes ready his flaming arrows.Whoever is pregnant with evil conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment.Whoever digs a hole and scoops it out falls into the pit they have made.The trouble they cause recoils on them; their violence comes down on their own heads.I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness; I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High.

"When the story about you is WRONG, trust the Righteous Judge to make it RIGHT."

1. Run to the Righteous Judge for Refuge (v. 1-2)

2. Reflect on your life before the Righteous Judge (v. 3-5)

3. Rest in confidence the Righteous Judge will bring justice (v. 6-16)

4. Rejoice with Praise to the Righteous Judge (v. 17)

Do you have a "CUSH" type person in your life? How will you RESPOND this week? Write out a prayer asking God to help you respond in a God honoring way.


Is the story about you RIGHT? Are you guilty and need forgiveness? Trust the Righteous Judge to make you RIGHT. Click the link below to take the next step of faith in Jesus.
]]>
LORD my God, I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue meor they will tear me apart like a lion and rip me to pieces with no one to rescue me.LORD my God, if I have done this and there is guilt on my handsif I have repaid my ally with evil or without cause have robbed my foethen let my enemy pursue and overtake me; let him trample my life to the ground and make me sleep in the dust.Arise, LORD, in your anger; rise up against the rage of my enemies. Awake, my God; decree justice.Let the assembled peoples gather around you, while you sit enthroned over them on high.Let the LORD judge the peoples. Vindicate me, LORD, according to my righteousness, according to my integrity, O Most High.Bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure— you, the righteous God who probes minds and hearts.My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart.God is a righteous judge, a God who displays his wrath every day.If he does not relent, he will sharpen his sword; he will bend and string his bow.He has prepared his deadly weapons; he makes ready his flaming arrows.Whoever is pregnant with evil conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment.Whoever digs a hole and scoops it out falls into the pit they have made.The trouble they cause recoils on them; their violence comes down on their own heads.I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness; I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High.

"When the story about you is WRONG, trust the Righteous Judge to make it RIGHT."

1. Run to the Righteous Judge for Refuge (v. 1-2)

2. Reflect on your life before the Righteous Judge (v. 3-5)

3. Rest in confidence the Righteous Judge will bring justice (v. 6-16)

4. Rejoice with Praise to the Righteous Judge (v. 17)

Do you have a "CUSH" type person in your life? How will you RESPOND this week? Write out a prayer asking God to help you respond in a God honoring way.


Is the story about you RIGHT? Are you guilty and need forgiveness? Trust the Righteous Judge to make you RIGHT. Click the link below to take the next step of faith in Jesus.
]]>
LORD my God, I take refuge in you; save and deliver me from all who pursue meor they will tear me apart like a lion and rip me to pieces with no one to rescue me.LORD my God, if I have done this and there is guilt on my handsif I have repaid my ally with evil or without cause have robbed my foethen let my enemy pursue and overtake me; let him trample my life to the ground and make me sleep in the dust.Arise, LORD, in your anger; rise up against the rage of my enemies. Awake, my God; decree justice.Let the assembled peoples gather around you, while you sit enthroned over them on high.Let the LORD judge the peoples. Vindicate me, LORD, according to my righteousness, according to my integrity, O Most High.Bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure— you, the righteous God who probes minds and hearts.My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart.God is a righteous judge, a God who displays his wrath every day.If he does not relent, he will sharpen his sword; he will bend and string his bow.He has prepared his deadly weapons; he makes ready his flaming arrows.Whoever is pregnant with evil conceives trouble and gives birth to disillusionment.Whoever digs a hole and scoops it out falls into the pit they have made.The trouble they cause recoils on them; their violence comes down on their own heads.I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness; I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High.

"When the story about you is WRONG, trust the Righteous Judge to make it RIGHT."

1. Run to the Righteous Judge for Refuge (v. 1-2)

2. Reflect on your life before the Righteous Judge (v. 3-5)

3. Rest in confidence the Righteous Judge will bring justice (v. 6-16)

4. Rejoice with Praise to the Righteous Judge (v. 17)

Do you have a "CUSH" type person in your life? How will you RESPOND this week? Write out a prayer asking God to help you respond in a God honoring way.


Is the story about you RIGHT? Are you guilty and need forgiveness? Trust the Righteous Judge to make you RIGHT. Click the link below to take the next step of faith in Jesus.
]]> false Praise in Every Season, Part 6 full podcastepisode_347d166b0b1b49c8b11b9500db189e2d Sun, 26 Oct 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Psalms 6:1-10 NIV


Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Psalms 6:1-10 NIV


Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Psalms 6:1-10 NIV


Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false Praise In Every Season, Part 5 full podcastepisode_7a822f82c1d2480abeddb391538657a6 Sun, 19 Oct 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Psalms 5:1-12 NIV


Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Psalms 5:1-12 NIV


Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
Psalms 5:1-12 NIV


Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false Praise In Every Season, Part 4 full podcastepisode_b42509de556e4555b6a5cb852c312fcd Sun, 12 Oct 2025 06:30:00 -0400

Psalms 4:1-8 NIV


Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps

]]>

Psalms 4:1-8 NIV


Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps

]]>

Psalms 4:1-8 NIV


Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps

]]> false Praise In Every Season, Part 3 full podcastepisode_70c173988d2345bfa7970bbd15e44fb7 Sun, 5 Oct 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Psalms 3:1-8 NIV

LORD, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!Many are saying of me, “God will not deliver him.”But you, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.I call out to the LORD, and he answers me from his holy mountain.I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me.I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.Arise, LORD! Deliver me, my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked.From the LORD comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people.

Where is God in times of Crisis? Can we really praise God in EVERY season?

Psalm 3 - Backstory from 2 Samuel 13-15.

Psalm 3 gives us six places to look for God in times of crisis.

1. Look for God's protection and defense in times of crisis (vs. 3)

2. Look for God's encouragement in times of criss (vs. 3)

3. Look for God's answered prayers in times of crisis (vs. 4)

4. Look for God's sustaining presence in times of crisis (vs. 5)

5. Look for God's deliverance in times of crisis (vs. 6-8)

6. Look for God's blessing in times of crisis (vs.8)

ACTION STEP: How many notes of encouragement could you write or send this week to the people in your life? 5, 10, 50? We all loved to BE BLESSED, but why not BE A BLESSING this week?
]]>
Psalms 3:1-8 NIV

LORD, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!Many are saying of me, “God will not deliver him.”But you, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.I call out to the LORD, and he answers me from his holy mountain.I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me.I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.Arise, LORD! Deliver me, my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked.From the LORD comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people.

Where is God in times of Crisis? Can we really praise God in EVERY season?

Psalm 3 - Backstory from 2 Samuel 13-15.

Psalm 3 gives us six places to look for God in times of crisis.

1. Look for God's protection and defense in times of crisis (vs. 3)

2. Look for God's encouragement in times of criss (vs. 3)

3. Look for God's answered prayers in times of crisis (vs. 4)

4. Look for God's sustaining presence in times of crisis (vs. 5)

5. Look for God's deliverance in times of crisis (vs. 6-8)

6. Look for God's blessing in times of crisis (vs.8)

ACTION STEP: How many notes of encouragement could you write or send this week to the people in your life? 5, 10, 50? We all loved to BE BLESSED, but why not BE A BLESSING this week?
]]>
Psalms 3:1-8 NIV

LORD, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me!Many are saying of me, “God will not deliver him.”But you, LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high.I call out to the LORD, and he answers me from his holy mountain.I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me.I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.Arise, LORD! Deliver me, my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked.From the LORD comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people.

Where is God in times of Crisis? Can we really praise God in EVERY season?

Psalm 3 - Backstory from 2 Samuel 13-15.

Psalm 3 gives us six places to look for God in times of crisis.

1. Look for God's protection and defense in times of crisis (vs. 3)

2. Look for God's encouragement in times of criss (vs. 3)

3. Look for God's answered prayers in times of crisis (vs. 4)

4. Look for God's sustaining presence in times of crisis (vs. 5)

5. Look for God's deliverance in times of crisis (vs. 6-8)

6. Look for God's blessing in times of crisis (vs.8)

ACTION STEP: How many notes of encouragement could you write or send this week to the people in your life? 5, 10, 50? We all loved to BE BLESSED, but why not BE A BLESSING this week?
]]> false Praise In Every Season, Part 2 full podcastepisode_e8076fc3dc8a4440affd1675fcbb30aa Sun, 28 Sep 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Psalms 2:1-12 NIV

Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the LORD and against his anointed, saying“Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.”The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them.He rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath, saying“I have installed my king on Zion, my holy mountain.”I will proclaim the LORD’s decree: He said to me, “You are my son; today I have become your father.Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.You will break them with a rod of iron; you will dash them to pieces like pottery.”Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth.Serve the LORD with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling.Kiss his son, or he will be angry and your way will lead to your destruction, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.

WHY are you rebelling against God?

Rebelling against God is a foolish effort in futility. (2:1-3)

Rebelling against God is like a ridiculous joke. (2:4-6)

Rebelling against God will end in destruction. (2:7-9)

It would be wise to find REFUGE in God rather than live in rebellion against God. (2:10-12)
]]>
Psalms 2:1-12 NIV

Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the LORD and against his anointed, saying“Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.”The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them.He rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath, saying“I have installed my king on Zion, my holy mountain.”I will proclaim the LORD’s decree: He said to me, “You are my son; today I have become your father.Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.You will break them with a rod of iron; you will dash them to pieces like pottery.”Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth.Serve the LORD with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling.Kiss his son, or he will be angry and your way will lead to your destruction, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.

WHY are you rebelling against God?

Rebelling against God is a foolish effort in futility. (2:1-3)

Rebelling against God is like a ridiculous joke. (2:4-6)

Rebelling against God will end in destruction. (2:7-9)

It would be wise to find REFUGE in God rather than live in rebellion against God. (2:10-12)
]]>
Psalms 2:1-12 NIV

Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the LORD and against his anointed, saying“Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.”The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them.He rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath, saying“I have installed my king on Zion, my holy mountain.”I will proclaim the LORD’s decree: He said to me, “You are my son; today I have become your father.Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.You will break them with a rod of iron; you will dash them to pieces like pottery.”Therefore, you kings, be wise; be warned, you rulers of the earth.Serve the LORD with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling.Kiss his son, or he will be angry and your way will lead to your destruction, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him.

WHY are you rebelling against God?

Rebelling against God is a foolish effort in futility. (2:1-3)

Rebelling against God is like a ridiculous joke. (2:4-6)

Rebelling against God will end in destruction. (2:7-9)

It would be wise to find REFUGE in God rather than live in rebellion against God. (2:10-12)
]]> false Praise in Every Season, Part 1 full podcastepisode_af2d44b1a4b74fa197a998b9f8e546de Sun, 21 Sep 2025 06:30:00 -0400
One Path leads to Life, Blessings, and Righteousness!
- This Pathe leads to a life that Blesses Others!

One Path leads to DEATH and Destruction!
]]>
One Path leads to Life, Blessings, and Righteousness!
- This Pathe leads to a life that Blesses Others!

One Path leads to DEATH and Destruction!
]]>
One Path leads to Life, Blessings, and Righteousness!
- This Pathe leads to a life that Blesses Others!

One Path leads to DEATH and Destruction!
]]> false James, Let's GROW! Part 20 full podcastepisode_dec2b10ecdf149faa7ff1f4353248761 Sun, 14 Sep 2025 06:30:00 -0400
James 5:19-20 ESV

My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him backlet him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.

1. Spiritual "wandering" is something that CAN happen to any believer.

2. We ALL have a responsibility to rescue and restore.

3. The consequences of wandering are SEVERE.

"Family Means NO ONE GETS LEFT BEHIND"

Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
James 5:19-20 ESV

My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him backlet him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.

1. Spiritual "wandering" is something that CAN happen to any believer.

2. We ALL have a responsibility to rescue and restore.

3. The consequences of wandering are SEVERE.

"Family Means NO ONE GETS LEFT BEHIND"

Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
James 5:19-20 ESV

My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him backlet him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.

1. Spiritual "wandering" is something that CAN happen to any believer.

2. We ALL have a responsibility to rescue and restore.

3. The consequences of wandering are SEVERE.

"Family Means NO ONE GETS LEFT BEHIND"

Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false James, Let's Grow, Part 19 full podcastepisode_00a3996a0eef46c4b3dd8cdb78905453 Sun, 7 Sep 2025 06:30:00 -0400
James 5:13-18 NIV

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.

Three Purposes of Prayer

1. Prayer directs our faith towards God.

2. Prayer lifts our praise towards God.

3. Prayer aligns our hearts with God's will.

What do you need to PRAY ABOUT this week?

Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
James 5:13-18 NIV

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.

Three Purposes of Prayer

1. Prayer directs our faith towards God.

2. Prayer lifts our praise towards God.

3. Prayer aligns our hearts with God's will.

What do you need to PRAY ABOUT this week?

Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]>
James 5:13-18 NIV

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.

Three Purposes of Prayer

1. Prayer directs our faith towards God.

2. Prayer lifts our praise towards God.

3. Prayer aligns our hearts with God's will.

What do you need to PRAY ABOUT this week?

Thank you for joining us this morning!

Visit our Website:
https://www.gracefellowship.online

Give Online:
https://gfcharis.churchcenter.com/giving

Prayer Requests:
https://www.gracefellowship.online/next-steps
]]> false James, Let's Grow! Part 16 full podcastepisode_b1911058a77345009e37e2e776dcd39e Sun, 24 Aug 2025 06:30:00 -0400
James 5:7-11 NIV

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains.You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

When life is hard, be patient. Jesus is coming soon!

Be patient like the FARMER.

Be patient like the PROPHETS.

Be patient like JOB.

Mark 13:32 NIV

“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

Romans 15:4 NIV

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
]]>
James 5:7-11 NIV

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains.You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

When life is hard, be patient. Jesus is coming soon!

Be patient like the FARMER.

Be patient like the PROPHETS.

Be patient like JOB.

Mark 13:32 NIV

“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

Romans 15:4 NIV

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
]]>
James 5:7-11 NIV

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains.You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

When life is hard, be patient. Jesus is coming soon!

Be patient like the FARMER.

Be patient like the PROPHETS.

Be patient like JOB.

Mark 13:32 NIV

“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

Romans 15:4 NIV

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
]]> false James, Let's Grow! Part 15 full podcastepisode_6107432066b24831b125ae3c4b062a32 Sun, 17 Aug 2025 06:30:00 -0400
James 5:1-6 NIV

Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you.Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes.Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

1. This passage is a WARNING to the believer against ENVY.

2. This passage is a CHALLENGE to the believer to view money from a BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE.

3.This passage is a CALL to the believer to monitory our HEARTS against sinful attitudes towards wealth.

1 Timothy 6:6-10 NIV

But godliness with contentment is great gain.For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Luke 12:15 NIV

Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”

Leviticus 19:13 NIV

“ ‘Do not defraud or rob your neighbor. “ ‘Do not hold back the wages of a hired worker overnight.

2 Corinthians 12:14 NIV

Now I am ready to visit you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you, because what I want is not your possessions but you. After all, children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.

1 Timothy 5:8 NIV

Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Matthew 25:27 NIV

Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.

Psalms 62:10 NIV

Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them.Proverbs 30:8-9 NIV

Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.

Luke 12:15 NIV

Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
]]>
James 5:1-6 NIV

Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you.Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes.Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

1. This passage is a WARNING to the believer against ENVY.

2. This passage is a CHALLENGE to the believer to view money from a BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE.

3.This passage is a CALL to the believer to monitory our HEARTS against sinful attitudes towards wealth.

1 Timothy 6:6-10 NIV

But godliness with contentment is great gain.For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Luke 12:15 NIV

Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”

Leviticus 19:13 NIV

“ ‘Do not defraud or rob your neighbor. “ ‘Do not hold back the wages of a hired worker overnight.

2 Corinthians 12:14 NIV

Now I am ready to visit you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you, because what I want is not your possessions but you. After all, children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.

1 Timothy 5:8 NIV

Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Matthew 25:27 NIV

Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.

Psalms 62:10 NIV

Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them.Proverbs 30:8-9 NIV

Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.

Luke 12:15 NIV

Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
]]>
James 5:1-6 NIV

Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you.Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes.Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

1. This passage is a WARNING to the believer against ENVY.

2. This passage is a CHALLENGE to the believer to view money from a BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE.

3.This passage is a CALL to the believer to monitory our HEARTS against sinful attitudes towards wealth.

1 Timothy 6:6-10 NIV

But godliness with contentment is great gain.For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Luke 12:15 NIV

Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”

Leviticus 19:13 NIV

“ ‘Do not defraud or rob your neighbor. “ ‘Do not hold back the wages of a hired worker overnight.

2 Corinthians 12:14 NIV

Now I am ready to visit you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you, because what I want is not your possessions but you. After all, children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.

1 Timothy 5:8 NIV

Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Matthew 25:27 NIV

Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.

Psalms 62:10 NIV

Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them.Proverbs 30:8-9 NIV

Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.

Luke 12:15 NIV

Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
]]> false James, Let's Grow! Part 14 full podcastepisode_f3423541ab944067bcdcddfd650e09d3 Sun, 10 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400
James 5:1-6 NIV

Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you.Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes.Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

Money cannot solve all your problems, but it can create problems.

What does it mean to be "RICH"?

Who are these "RICH PEOPLE"?

CRIMES of the "RICH PEOPLE"

#1 - Hoarding Wealth (vs. 2-3)

#2 - Withholding payment to workers (vs. 4)

#3 - Self-Indulgence (vs. 5)

#4 - Murder of the Innocent (vs. 6)

MONEY CANNOT SOLVE OUR PROBLEM WITH DEATH!
]]>
James 5:1-6 NIV

Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you.Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes.Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

Money cannot solve all your problems, but it can create problems.

What does it mean to be "RICH"?

Who are these "RICH PEOPLE"?

CRIMES of the "RICH PEOPLE"

#1 - Hoarding Wealth (vs. 2-3)

#2 - Withholding payment to workers (vs. 4)

#3 - Self-Indulgence (vs. 5)

#4 - Murder of the Innocent (vs. 6)

MONEY CANNOT SOLVE OUR PROBLEM WITH DEATH!
]]>
James 5:1-6 NIV

Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you.Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes.Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days.Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

Money cannot solve all your problems, but it can create problems.

What does it mean to be "RICH"?

Who are these "RICH PEOPLE"?

CRIMES of the "RICH PEOPLE"

#1 - Hoarding Wealth (vs. 2-3)

#2 - Withholding payment to workers (vs. 4)

#3 - Self-Indulgence (vs. 5)

#4 - Murder of the Innocent (vs. 6)

MONEY CANNOT SOLVE OUR PROBLEM WITH DEATH!
]]> false James, Let's Grow! Part 13 full podcastepisode_fbf17877115e4b088109b6e62550b181 Sun, 3 Aug 2025 06:30:00 -0400
James 4:11
Boasting about tomorrow is poor planning for your future.

Know God's Will

Matthew 7:7-8
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened

Know God's Will, Love God's Will

Matthew 22:37
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

Love God's Will, Love God's Will, Obey God's Will

Love God More than Self + Chase Christ More than my Dreams

1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness
]]>
James 4:11
Boasting about tomorrow is poor planning for your future.

Know God's Will

Matthew 7:7-8
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened

Know God's Will, Love God's Will

Matthew 22:37
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

Love God's Will, Love God's Will, Obey God's Will

Love God More than Self + Chase Christ More than my Dreams

1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness
]]>
James 4:11
Boasting about tomorrow is poor planning for your future.

Know God's Will

Matthew 7:7-8
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened

Know God's Will, Love God's Will

Matthew 22:37
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.

Love God's Will, Love God's Will, Obey God's Will

Love God More than Self + Chase Christ More than my Dreams

1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness
]]> false James, Let's Grow! Part 12 full podcastepisode_e4bf6b7254d5476cb557a8df3425a596 Sun, 20 Jul 2025 04:30:00 -0400
James 4:11-12 NIV

Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?

Be a GRACE GIVER not a FAULT FINDER!

(1) What does James mean by “slander” and “judging”?

(2) What does James NOT mean by those words?

(3) Why are “slander” and “judging” wrong?

Matthew 7:1-5 NIV

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

1 Corinthians 5:12-13 NIV

What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked person from among you.”

1 Corinthians 6:4-6 NIV

Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, do you ask for a ruling from those whose way of life is scorned in the church?I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers?But instead, one brother takes another to court—and this in front of unbelievers!

Romans 13:1-3 NIV

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended.

Galatians 6:1 NIV

Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.

Leviticus 19:16-18 NIV

“ ‘Do not go about spreading slander among your people. “ ‘Do not do anything that endangers your neighbor’s life. I am the LORD.“ ‘Do not hate a fellow Israelite in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in their guilt.“ ‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD.

Matthew 22:37-40 NIV

Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’This is the first and greatest commandment.And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

What's YOUR NEXT STEP in becoming a GRACE GIVER instead of a FAULT FINDER?
]]>
James 4:11-12 NIV

Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?

Be a GRACE GIVER not a FAULT FINDER!

(1) What does James mean by “slander” and “judging”?

(2) What does James NOT mean by those words?

(3) Why are “slander” and “judging” wrong?

Matthew 7:1-5 NIV

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

1 Corinthians 5:12-13 NIV

What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked person from among you.”

1 Corinthians 6:4-6 NIV

Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, do you ask for a ruling from those whose way of life is scorned in the church?I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers?But instead, one brother takes another to court—and this in front of unbelievers!

Romans 13:1-3 NIV

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended.

Galatians 6:1 NIV

Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.

Leviticus 19:16-18 NIV

“ ‘Do not go about spreading slander among your people. “ ‘Do not do anything that endangers your neighbor’s life. I am the LORD.“ ‘Do not hate a fellow Israelite in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in their guilt.“ ‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD.

Matthew 22:37-40 NIV

Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’This is the first and greatest commandment.And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

What's YOUR NEXT STEP in becoming a GRACE GIVER instead of a FAULT FINDER?
]]>
James 4:11-12 NIV

Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?

Be a GRACE GIVER not a FAULT FINDER!

(1) What does James mean by “slander” and “judging”?

(2) What does James NOT mean by those words?

(3) Why are “slander” and “judging” wrong?

Matthew 7:1-5 NIV

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

1 Corinthians 5:12-13 NIV

What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked person from among you.”

1 Corinthians 6:4-6 NIV

Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, do you ask for a ruling from those whose way of life is scorned in the church?I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers?But instead, one brother takes another to court—and this in front of unbelievers!

Romans 13:1-3 NIV

Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended.

Galatians 6:1 NIV

Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.

Leviticus 19:16-18 NIV

“ ‘Do not go about spreading slander among your people. “ ‘Do not do anything that endangers your neighbor’s life. I am the LORD.“ ‘Do not hate a fellow Israelite in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor frankly so you will not share in their guilt.“ ‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD.

Matthew 22:37-40 NIV

Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’This is the first and greatest commandment.And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

What's YOUR NEXT STEP in becoming a GRACE GIVER instead of a FAULT FINDER?
]]> false James, Let's Grow! Part 9 full podcastepisode_fd83fd0c69f2413d9f057aa9d2e6b6b6 Sun, 29 Jun 2025 04:30:00 -0400
James 3:1-12 NIV

Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal.Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go.Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankindbut no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness.Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

The tongue is small but powerful, so be careful how you use it!


1. The tongue is small, but it can control the direction of our lives. (James 3:1-5; 1:26)


2. The tongue is small, but it can do a great deal of damage.
(James 3:6-8)


3. The tongue is small, but hard to tame.
(James 3:7)


4. The tongue is small, but it reveals what is really going on in our hearts.
(James 3:9-12)

What do we do with the pain of hurtful words?

James 1:26 NIV

Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.

Ephesians 4:29 NIV

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Galatians 3:16-23 NIV

The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. Scripture does not say “and to seeds,” meaning many people, but “and to your seed,” meaning one person, who is Christ.What I mean is this: The law, introduced 430 years later, does not set aside the covenant previously established by God and thus do away with the promise.For if the inheritance depends on the law, then it no longer depends on the promise; but God in his grace gave it to Abraham through a promise.Why, then, was the law given at all? It was added because of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come. The law was given through angels and entrusted to a mediator.A mediator, however, implies more than one party; but God is one.Is the law, therefore, opposed to the promises of God? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that could impart life, then righteousness would certainly have come by the law.But Scripture has locked up everything under the control of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe.Before the coming of this faith, we were held in custody under the law, locked up until the faith that was to come would be revealed.

What will you DO with what you HEARD today?

Type it out here... share this with someone today.

Galatians 3:9-12 NIV

So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as it is written: “Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.”Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because “the righteous will live by faith.”The law is not based on faith; on the contrary, it says, “The person who does these things will live by them.”
]]>
James 3:1-12 NIV

Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal.Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go.Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankindbut no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness.Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

The tongue is small but powerful, so be careful how you use it!


1. The tongue is small, but it can control the direction of our lives. (James 3:1-5; 1:26)


2. The tongue is small, but it can do a great deal of damage.
(James 3:6-8)


3. The tongue is small, but hard to tame.
(James 3:7)


4. The tongue is small, but it reveals what is really going on in our hearts.
(James 3:9-12)

What do we do with the pain of hurtful words?

James 1:26 NIV

Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.

Ephesians 4:29 NIV

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Galatians 3:16-23 NIV

The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. Scripture does not say “and to seeds,” meaning many people, but “and to your seed,” meaning one person, who is Christ.What I mean is this: The law, introduced 430 years later, does not set aside the covenant previously established by God and thus do away with the promise.For if the inheritance depends on the law, then it no longer depends on the promise; but God in his grace gave it to Abraham through a promise.Why, then, was the law given at all? It was added because of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come. The law was given through angels and entrusted to a mediator.A mediator, however, implies more than one party; but God is one.Is the law, therefore, opposed to the promises of God? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that could impart life, then righteousness would certainly have come by the law.But Scripture has locked up everything under the control of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe.Before the coming of this faith, we were held in custody under the law, locked up until the faith that was to come would be revealed.

What will you DO with what you HEARD today?

Type it out here... share this with someone today.

Galatians 3:9-12 NIV

So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as it is written: “Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.”Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because “the righteous will live by faith.”The law is not based on faith; on the contrary, it says, “The person who does these things will live by them.”
]]>
James 3:1-12 NIV

Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal.Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go.Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankindbut no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness.Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

The tongue is small but powerful, so be careful how you use it!


1. The tongue is small, but it can control the direction of our lives. (James 3:1-5; 1:26)


2. The tongue is small, but it can do a great deal of damage.
(James 3:6-8)


3. The tongue is small, but hard to tame.
(James 3:7)


4. The tongue is small, but it reveals what is really going on in our hearts.
(James 3:9-12)

What do we do with the pain of hurtful words?

James 1:26 NIV

Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.

Ephesians 4:29 NIV

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Galatians 3:16-23 NIV

The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. Scripture does not say “and to seeds,” meaning many people, but “and to your seed,” meaning one person, who is Christ.What I mean is this: The law, introduced 430 years later, does not set aside the covenant previously established by God and thus do away with the promise.For if the inheritance depends on the law, then it no longer depends on the promise; but God in his grace gave it to Abraham through a promise.Why, then, was the law given at all? It was added because of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come. The law was given through angels and entrusted to a mediator.A mediator, however, implies more than one party; but God is one.Is the law, therefore, opposed to the promises of God? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that could impart life, then righteousness would certainly have come by the law.But Scripture has locked up everything under the control of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe.Before the coming of this faith, we were held in custody under the law, locked up until the faith that was to come would be revealed.

What will you DO with what you HEARD today?

Type it out here... share this with someone today.

Galatians 3:9-12 NIV

So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as it is written: “Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.”Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because “the righteous will live by faith.”The law is not based on faith; on the contrary, it says, “The person who does these things will live by them.”
]]> false James. Lets Grow, Part 8 full podcastepisode_0ae70df025b9440a9f8189dfc4734e3b Sun, 22 Jun 2025 04:30:00 -0400
James 2:1-13 NIV

My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in.If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,”have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court?Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right.But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.For he who said, “You shall not commit adultery,” also said, “You shall not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedombecause judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

What is Favoritism? (Write down a definition)


Why is Favoritism Wrong?

1. Favoritism does not reflect the Gospel of Jesus Christ. (2:1)


2. Favoritism conflicts with God's Values (2:5-7)


3. Favoritism violates the "Royal Law" (2:8)


How do we avoid favoritism? (2:12-13)

1. Live like we know we will given an account to Christ.


2. Live like people who have received undeserved love, grace and mercy.


What do you need to do or change in response to God's Word today?
]]>
James 2:1-13 NIV

My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in.If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,”have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court?Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right.But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.For he who said, “You shall not commit adultery,” also said, “You shall not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedombecause judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

What is Favoritism? (Write down a definition)


Why is Favoritism Wrong?

1. Favoritism does not reflect the Gospel of Jesus Christ. (2:1)


2. Favoritism conflicts with God's Values (2:5-7)


3. Favoritism violates the "Royal Law" (2:8)


How do we avoid favoritism? (2:12-13)

1. Live like we know we will given an account to Christ.


2. Live like people who have received undeserved love, grace and mercy.


What do you need to do or change in response to God's Word today?
]]>
James 2:1-13 NIV

My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in.If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,”have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court?Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right.But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.For he who said, “You shall not commit adultery,” also said, “You shall not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedombecause judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

What is Favoritism? (Write down a definition)


Why is Favoritism Wrong?

1. Favoritism does not reflect the Gospel of Jesus Christ. (2:1)


2. Favoritism conflicts with God's Values (2:5-7)


3. Favoritism violates the "Royal Law" (2:8)


How do we avoid favoritism? (2:12-13)

1. Live like we know we will given an account to Christ.


2. Live like people who have received undeserved love, grace and mercy.


What do you need to do or change in response to God's Word today?
]]> false James, Let's Grow, Part 7 full podcastepisode_843fdeb5dffb42259eb9a45d7d51ecc3 Sun, 15 Jun 2025 06:30:00 -0400
James 2:14-26 NIV

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food.If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did.And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend.You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction?As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.

3 Marks of a Fake or Dead Faith:
1) Empty Words
2) Empty Heart
3) Empty Belief

Do you have a real faith that works?
]]>
James 2:14-26 NIV

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food.If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did.And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend.You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction?As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.

3 Marks of a Fake or Dead Faith:
1) Empty Words
2) Empty Heart
3) Empty Belief

Do you have a real faith that works?
]]>
James 2:14-26 NIV

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food.If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did.And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend.You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction?As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.

3 Marks of a Fake or Dead Faith:
1) Empty Words
2) Empty Heart
3) Empty Belief

Do you have a real faith that works?
]]> false James, Let's Grow, Part 6 full podcastepisode_8109900baf1e428eabeac611744c031a Sun, 8 Jun 2025 06:30:00 -0400
21Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
22Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

Why do we sometimes have to convince BELIEVERS to live like BELIEVERS?

What do YOU see when you look into the MIRROR of the Word of God
]]>
21Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
22Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

Why do we sometimes have to convince BELIEVERS to live like BELIEVERS?

What do YOU see when you look into the MIRROR of the Word of God
]]>
21Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
22Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

Why do we sometimes have to convince BELIEVERS to live like BELIEVERS?

What do YOU see when you look into the MIRROR of the Word of God
]]> false James, Let's Grow, Part 5 full podcastepisode_ea99de3a33c348de985c9a2da74b8d4d Sun, 1 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400
James 1:19-20 NLT

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.

James 1:20 NLT

Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.

Proverbs 15:1 NLT

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

Proverbs 17:28 NLT

Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.

Galatians 5:19-21 NLT

When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasuresidolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, divisionenvy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

How can we put this simple life principle into practice?

(1) Pray every day for transformation – for the “fruit of the Holy Spirit” to grow in our lives.

(2) Work at becoming a better active listener. Go back and listen to that part of the sermon this week, since you’re probably going to forget most of what I said this morning before you even get to your car.

(3) Make a personal commitment be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry” because anger does not produce a righteous life.
]]>
James 1:19-20 NLT

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.

James 1:20 NLT

Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.

Proverbs 15:1 NLT

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

Proverbs 17:28 NLT

Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.

Galatians 5:19-21 NLT

When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasuresidolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, divisionenvy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

How can we put this simple life principle into practice?

(1) Pray every day for transformation – for the “fruit of the Holy Spirit” to grow in our lives.

(2) Work at becoming a better active listener. Go back and listen to that part of the sermon this week, since you’re probably going to forget most of what I said this morning before you even get to your car.

(3) Make a personal commitment be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry” because anger does not produce a righteous life.
]]>
James 1:19-20 NLT

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.

James 1:20 NLT

Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.

Proverbs 15:1 NLT

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

Proverbs 17:28 NLT

Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.

Galatians 5:19-21 NLT

When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasuresidolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, divisionenvy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.

How can we put this simple life principle into practice?

(1) Pray every day for transformation – for the “fruit of the Holy Spirit” to grow in our lives.

(2) Work at becoming a better active listener. Go back and listen to that part of the sermon this week, since you’re probably going to forget most of what I said this morning before you even get to your car.

(3) Make a personal commitment be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry” because anger does not produce a righteous life.
]]> false James, Let's Grow, Part 4 full podcastepisode_cd9e92b25ad6496393397d278eca04c5 Sun, 25 May 2025 06:30:00 -0400
James 1:17-18 NIV

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.

If the GIFT if from God, then the GIFT is GOOD because God is always GOOD!

Romans 8:22-23 NIV

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

Revelation 21:1-4 NIV

Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

What difference does this make in our lives? What happens when we doubt or forget that God is always good? The examples of David and Joseph give us the answer!

2 Samuel 12:7-9 NIV

Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man! This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul.I gave your master’s house to you, and your master’s wives into your arms. I gave you all Israel and Judah. And if all this had been too little, I would have given you even more.Why did you despise the word of the LORD by doing what is evil in his eyes? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife to be your own. You killed him with the sword of the Ammonites.

Genesis 39:6-9 NIV

So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate. Now Joseph was well-built and handsomeand after a while his master’s wife took notice of Joseph and said, “Come to bed with me!”But he refused. “With me in charge,” he told her, “my master does not concern himself with anything in the house; everything he owns he has entrusted to my care.No one is greater in this house than I am. My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?”

"If the gift is from God, then the gift is good because God is always good!"

CHALLENGE: Flip the phrase... "If the gift is good, then the gift is from God." This week look for as many good gifts in your life that you can find and express thanks to God for them. See if it makes a difference in your life this week.
]]>
James 1:17-18 NIV

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.

If the GIFT if from God, then the GIFT is GOOD because God is always GOOD!

Romans 8:22-23 NIV

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

Revelation 21:1-4 NIV

Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

What difference does this make in our lives? What happens when we doubt or forget that God is always good? The examples of David and Joseph give us the answer!

2 Samuel 12:7-9 NIV

Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man! This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul.I gave your master’s house to you, and your master’s wives into your arms. I gave you all Israel and Judah. And if all this had been too little, I would have given you even more.Why did you despise the word of the LORD by doing what is evil in his eyes? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife to be your own. You killed him with the sword of the Ammonites.

Genesis 39:6-9 NIV

So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate. Now Joseph was well-built and handsomeand after a while his master’s wife took notice of Joseph and said, “Come to bed with me!”But he refused. “With me in charge,” he told her, “my master does not concern himself with anything in the house; everything he owns he has entrusted to my care.No one is greater in this house than I am. My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?”

"If the gift is from God, then the gift is good because God is always good!"

CHALLENGE: Flip the phrase... "If the gift is good, then the gift is from God." This week look for as many good gifts in your life that you can find and express thanks to God for them. See if it makes a difference in your life this week.
]]>
James 1:17-18 NIV

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created.

If the GIFT if from God, then the GIFT is GOOD because God is always GOOD!

Romans 8:22-23 NIV

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

Revelation 21:1-4 NIV

Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea.I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

What difference does this make in our lives? What happens when we doubt or forget that God is always good? The examples of David and Joseph give us the answer!

2 Samuel 12:7-9 NIV

Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man! This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘I anointed you king over Israel, and I delivered you from the hand of Saul.I gave your master’s house to you, and your master’s wives into your arms. I gave you all Israel and Judah. And if all this had been too little, I would have given you even more.Why did you despise the word of the LORD by doing what is evil in his eyes? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword and took his wife to be your own. You killed him with the sword of the Ammonites.

Genesis 39:6-9 NIV

So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate. Now Joseph was well-built and handsomeand after a while his master’s wife took notice of Joseph and said, “Come to bed with me!”But he refused. “With me in charge,” he told her, “my master does not concern himself with anything in the house; everything he owns he has entrusted to my care.No one is greater in this house than I am. My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?”

"If the gift is from God, then the gift is good because God is always good!"

CHALLENGE: Flip the phrase... "If the gift is good, then the gift is from God." This week look for as many good gifts in your life that you can find and express thanks to God for them. See if it makes a difference in your life this week.
]]> false James, Let's Grow, Part 3 full podcastepisode_d0a98c9f9d574ce482217e94901e20c2 Sun, 18 May 2025 06:30:00 -0400
James 1:13-16 NLT

And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else.Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away.These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters.

Temptation is a TEST we cannot afford to FAIL!

Trials and Temptations are both TESTS but they are different is significant ways...

Trials and Temptations come from DIFFERENT SOURCES

Trials and Temptations lead to DIFFERENT RESULTS

Trials and Temptations demand DIFFERENT RESPONSES

HOW DO WE HAVE VICTORY OVER TEMPTATION?
1. We need JESUS!
2. We need the WORD OF GOD!
3. We need the HOLY SPIRIT!
4. We need to realize we are in a FIGHT!

1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT

The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
]]>
James 1:13-16 NLT

And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else.Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away.These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters.

Temptation is a TEST we cannot afford to FAIL!

Trials and Temptations are both TESTS but they are different is significant ways...

Trials and Temptations come from DIFFERENT SOURCES

Trials and Temptations lead to DIFFERENT RESULTS

Trials and Temptations demand DIFFERENT RESPONSES

HOW DO WE HAVE VICTORY OVER TEMPTATION?
1. We need JESUS!
2. We need the WORD OF GOD!
3. We need the HOLY SPIRIT!
4. We need to realize we are in a FIGHT!

1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT

The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
]]>
James 1:13-16 NLT

And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else.Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away.These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters.

Temptation is a TEST we cannot afford to FAIL!

Trials and Temptations are both TESTS but they are different is significant ways...

Trials and Temptations come from DIFFERENT SOURCES

Trials and Temptations lead to DIFFERENT RESULTS

Trials and Temptations demand DIFFERENT RESPONSES

HOW DO WE HAVE VICTORY OVER TEMPTATION?
1. We need JESUS!
2. We need the WORD OF GOD!
3. We need the HOLY SPIRIT!
4. We need to realize we are in a FIGHT!

1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT

The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
]]> false James, Let's Grow, Part 2 full podcastepisode_cded3be763f1454cb37dacfa4f405d5e Sun, 11 May 2025 06:30:00 -0400
James 1:2 NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds

What are TRIALS? Trials are the unwelcomed, unanticipated, unpleasant experiences of life. Trials are the moments and seasons of life that are not IDEAL. Trials are the HARD DAYS of life.

TRIALS TEST OUR FAITH

TRIALS STRENGTHEN OUR FAITH

James 1:3-12 NIV

because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position.But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower.For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
]]>
James 1:2 NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds

What are TRIALS? Trials are the unwelcomed, unanticipated, unpleasant experiences of life. Trials are the moments and seasons of life that are not IDEAL. Trials are the HARD DAYS of life.

TRIALS TEST OUR FAITH

TRIALS STRENGTHEN OUR FAITH

James 1:3-12 NIV

because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position.But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower.For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
]]>
James 1:2 NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds

What are TRIALS? Trials are the unwelcomed, unanticipated, unpleasant experiences of life. Trials are the moments and seasons of life that are not IDEAL. Trials are the HARD DAYS of life.

TRIALS TEST OUR FAITH

TRIALS STRENGTHEN OUR FAITH

James 1:3-12 NIV

because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position.But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower.For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
]]> false James, Lets's GROW! Part 1 full podcastepisode_0fee2f056a974a62a492d32e65fe6d4b Sun, 4 May 2025 06:30:00 -0400
James 1:1 NLT

This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am writing to the “twelve tribes”—Jewish believers scattered abroad. Greetings!

James chose SERVICE over STATUS!

Matthew 13:55 NLT

Then they scoffed, “He’s just the carpenter’s son, and we know Mary, his mother, and his brothers—James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas.

1 Corinthians 15:7 NLT

Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles.

Acts of the Apostles 1:12-14 NLT

Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a distance of half a mile.When they arrived, they went to the upstairs room of the house where they were staying. Here are the names of those who were present: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon (the zealot), and Judas (son of James).They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus.

“What makes you special? What do you want to be known for? When you walk into a room; when people hear your name; how do you want to be thought of?”

Could we choose SERVICE over STATUS? Could we choose to be a "servant leader"? What would that look like in our everyday lives?
]]>
James 1:1 NLT

This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am writing to the “twelve tribes”—Jewish believers scattered abroad. Greetings!

James chose SERVICE over STATUS!

Matthew 13:55 NLT

Then they scoffed, “He’s just the carpenter’s son, and we know Mary, his mother, and his brothers—James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas.

1 Corinthians 15:7 NLT

Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles.

Acts of the Apostles 1:12-14 NLT

Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a distance of half a mile.When they arrived, they went to the upstairs room of the house where they were staying. Here are the names of those who were present: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon (the zealot), and Judas (son of James).They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus.

“What makes you special? What do you want to be known for? When you walk into a room; when people hear your name; how do you want to be thought of?”

Could we choose SERVICE over STATUS? Could we choose to be a "servant leader"? What would that look like in our everyday lives?
]]>
James 1:1 NLT

This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am writing to the “twelve tribes”—Jewish believers scattered abroad. Greetings!

James chose SERVICE over STATUS!

Matthew 13:55 NLT

Then they scoffed, “He’s just the carpenter’s son, and we know Mary, his mother, and his brothers—James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas.

1 Corinthians 15:7 NLT

Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles.

Acts of the Apostles 1:12-14 NLT

Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, a distance of half a mile.When they arrived, they went to the upstairs room of the house where they were staying. Here are the names of those who were present: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James (son of Alphaeus), Simon (the zealot), and Judas (son of James).They all met together and were constantly united in prayer, along with Mary the mother of Jesus, several other women, and the brothers of Jesus.

“What makes you special? What do you want to be known for? When you walk into a room; when people hear your name; how do you want to be thought of?”

Could we choose SERVICE over STATUS? Could we choose to be a "servant leader"? What would that look like in our everyday lives?
]]> false Noah, Build The Boat full podcastepisode_7a1a23b6e87e42cfbad561b463cbbcbc Sun, 27 Apr 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Esther 4:14 NLT

If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?”

Genesis 6:5-8 NLT

The LORD observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil.So the LORD was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart.And the LORD said, “I will wipe this human race I have created from the face of the earth. Yes, and I will destroy every living thing—all the people, the large animals, the small animals that scurry along the ground, and even the birds of the sky. I am sorry I ever made them.”But Noah found favor with the LORD.

Genesis 6:22 NLT

So Noah did everything exactly as God had commanded him.

BUILD THE BOAT

Noah followed ALL of God's instructions, exactly as He commanded them.

Genesis 7:6-7 NLT

Noah was 600 years old when the flood covered the earth.He went on board the boat to escape the flood—he and his wife and his sons and their wives.

BUILD THE BOAT

Noah made a Generational Impact!

Genesis 7:22-24 NLT

Everything that breathed and lived on dry land died.God wiped out every living thing on the earth—people, livestock, small animals that scurry along the ground, and the birds of the sky. All were destroyed. The only people who survived were Noah and those with him in the boat.And the floodwaters covered the earth for 150 days.

BUILD THE BOAT

When everything around him was being destroyed, Noah remained steadfast!

Genesis 8:13-20 NLT

Noah was now 601 years old. On the first day of the new year, ten and a half months after the flood began, the floodwaters had almost dried up from the earth. Noah lifted back the covering of the boat and saw that the surface of the ground was drying.Two more months went by, and at last the earth was dry!Then God said to Noah“Leave the boat, all of you—you and your wife, and your sons and their wives.Release all the animals—the birds, the livestock, and the small animals that scurry along the ground—so they can be fruitful and multiply throughout the earth.”So Noah, his wife, and his sons and their wives left the boat.And all of the large and small animals and birds came out of the boat, pair by pair.Then Noah built an altar to the LORD, and there he sacrificed as burnt offerings the animals and birds that had been approved for that purpose.

BUILD THE BOAT

After the storm, Noah worshipped God and built an altar.

Genesis 9:12-17 NLT

Then God said, “I am giving you a sign of my covenant with you and with all living creatures, for all generations to come.I have placed my rainbow in the clouds. It is the sign of my covenant with you and with all the earth.When I send clouds over the earth, the rainbow will appear in the cloudsand I will remember my covenant with you and with all living creatures. Never again will the floodwaters destroy all life.When I see the rainbow in the clouds, I will remember the eternal covenant between God and every living creature on earth.”Then God said to Noah, “Yes, this rainbow is the sign of the covenant I am confirming with all the creatures on earth.”

BUILD THE BOAT

God provided a promise!

Matthew 24:37-39 NLT

“When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day.In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat.People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes.
]]>
Esther 4:14 NLT

If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?”

Genesis 6:5-8 NLT

The LORD observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil.So the LORD was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart.And the LORD said, “I will wipe this human race I have created from the face of the earth. Yes, and I will destroy every living thing—all the people, the large animals, the small animals that scurry along the ground, and even the birds of the sky. I am sorry I ever made them.”But Noah found favor with the LORD.

Genesis 6:22 NLT

So Noah did everything exactly as God had commanded him.

BUILD THE BOAT

Noah followed ALL of God's instructions, exactly as He commanded them.

Genesis 7:6-7 NLT

Noah was 600 years old when the flood covered the earth.He went on board the boat to escape the flood—he and his wife and his sons and their wives.

BUILD THE BOAT

Noah made a Generational Impact!

Genesis 7:22-24 NLT

Everything that breathed and lived on dry land died.God wiped out every living thing on the earth—people, livestock, small animals that scurry along the ground, and the birds of the sky. All were destroyed. The only people who survived were Noah and those with him in the boat.And the floodwaters covered the earth for 150 days.

BUILD THE BOAT

When everything around him was being destroyed, Noah remained steadfast!

Genesis 8:13-20 NLT

Noah was now 601 years old. On the first day of the new year, ten and a half months after the flood began, the floodwaters had almost dried up from the earth. Noah lifted back the covering of the boat and saw that the surface of the ground was drying.Two more months went by, and at last the earth was dry!Then God said to Noah“Leave the boat, all of you—you and your wife, and your sons and their wives.Release all the animals—the birds, the livestock, and the small animals that scurry along the ground—so they can be fruitful and multiply throughout the earth.”So Noah, his wife, and his sons and their wives left the boat.And all of the large and small animals and birds came out of the boat, pair by pair.Then Noah built an altar to the LORD, and there he sacrificed as burnt offerings the animals and birds that had been approved for that purpose.

BUILD THE BOAT

After the storm, Noah worshipped God and built an altar.

Genesis 9:12-17 NLT

Then God said, “I am giving you a sign of my covenant with you and with all living creatures, for all generations to come.I have placed my rainbow in the clouds. It is the sign of my covenant with you and with all the earth.When I send clouds over the earth, the rainbow will appear in the cloudsand I will remember my covenant with you and with all living creatures. Never again will the floodwaters destroy all life.When I see the rainbow in the clouds, I will remember the eternal covenant between God and every living creature on earth.”Then God said to Noah, “Yes, this rainbow is the sign of the covenant I am confirming with all the creatures on earth.”

BUILD THE BOAT

God provided a promise!

Matthew 24:37-39 NLT

“When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day.In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat.People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes.
]]>
Esther 4:14 NLT

If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?”

Genesis 6:5-8 NLT

The LORD observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and he saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil.So the LORD was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart.And the LORD said, “I will wipe this human race I have created from the face of the earth. Yes, and I will destroy every living thing—all the people, the large animals, the small animals that scurry along the ground, and even the birds of the sky. I am sorry I ever made them.”But Noah found favor with the LORD.

Genesis 6:22 NLT

So Noah did everything exactly as God had commanded him.

BUILD THE BOAT

Noah followed ALL of God's instructions, exactly as He commanded them.

Genesis 7:6-7 NLT

Noah was 600 years old when the flood covered the earth.He went on board the boat to escape the flood—he and his wife and his sons and their wives.

BUILD THE BOAT

Noah made a Generational Impact!

Genesis 7:22-24 NLT

Everything that breathed and lived on dry land died.God wiped out every living thing on the earth—people, livestock, small animals that scurry along the ground, and the birds of the sky. All were destroyed. The only people who survived were Noah and those with him in the boat.And the floodwaters covered the earth for 150 days.

BUILD THE BOAT

When everything around him was being destroyed, Noah remained steadfast!

Genesis 8:13-20 NLT

Noah was now 601 years old. On the first day of the new year, ten and a half months after the flood began, the floodwaters had almost dried up from the earth. Noah lifted back the covering of the boat and saw that the surface of the ground was drying.Two more months went by, and at last the earth was dry!Then God said to Noah“Leave the boat, all of you—you and your wife, and your sons and their wives.Release all the animals—the birds, the livestock, and the small animals that scurry along the ground—so they can be fruitful and multiply throughout the earth.”So Noah, his wife, and his sons and their wives left the boat.And all of the large and small animals and birds came out of the boat, pair by pair.Then Noah built an altar to the LORD, and there he sacrificed as burnt offerings the animals and birds that had been approved for that purpose.

BUILD THE BOAT

After the storm, Noah worshipped God and built an altar.

Genesis 9:12-17 NLT

Then God said, “I am giving you a sign of my covenant with you and with all living creatures, for all generations to come.I have placed my rainbow in the clouds. It is the sign of my covenant with you and with all the earth.When I send clouds over the earth, the rainbow will appear in the cloudsand I will remember my covenant with you and with all living creatures. Never again will the floodwaters destroy all life.When I see the rainbow in the clouds, I will remember the eternal covenant between God and every living creature on earth.”Then God said to Noah, “Yes, this rainbow is the sign of the covenant I am confirming with all the creatures on earth.”

BUILD THE BOAT

God provided a promise!

Matthew 24:37-39 NLT

“When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day.In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat.People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes.
]]> false Easter Upside Down, Part 5 full podcastepisode_694865d3ea2942ffa94a73d7fb31c9c4 Sun, 20 Apr 2025 06:30:00 -0400
John 20:24-29 NIV

Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came.So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

John 20:1-10 NIV

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb.Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in.Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying thereas well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)Then the disciples went back to where they were staying.

John uses THREE different words for "SEEING"

1. "Blepo"

2. "Theoreo"

3. "Eidon"

Which word best describes how YOU SEE the empty tomb?

Look at your own LIFE. What do you "SEE"?

Merely seeing the empty tomb may not change who you believe, but truly believing will absolutely change what you SEE!
]]>
John 20:24-29 NIV

Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came.So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

John 20:1-10 NIV

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb.Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in.Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying thereas well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)Then the disciples went back to where they were staying.

John uses THREE different words for "SEEING"

1. "Blepo"

2. "Theoreo"

3. "Eidon"

Which word best describes how YOU SEE the empty tomb?

Look at your own LIFE. What do you "SEE"?

Merely seeing the empty tomb may not change who you believe, but truly believing will absolutely change what you SEE!
]]>
John 20:24-29 NIV

Now Thomas (also known as Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came.So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!”Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”Thomas said to him, “My Lord and my God!”Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

John 20:1-10 NIV

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb.Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in.Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying thereas well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen.Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)Then the disciples went back to where they were staying.

John uses THREE different words for "SEEING"

1. "Blepo"

2. "Theoreo"

3. "Eidon"

Which word best describes how YOU SEE the empty tomb?

Look at your own LIFE. What do you "SEE"?

Merely seeing the empty tomb may not change who you believe, but truly believing will absolutely change what you SEE!
]]> false Easter Upside Down, Part 4 full podcastepisode_d4e09db3438a43fca33d8717d652a177 Sun, 13 Apr 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Matthew 27:1-5
“Very early in the morning the leading priests and the elders of the people met again to lay plans for putting Jesus to death. Then they bound him, led him away, and took him to Pilate, the Roman governor. When Judas, who had betrayed him, realized that Jesus had been condemned to die, he was filled with remorse. So he took the thirty pieces of silver back to the leading priests and the elders. “I have sinned,” he declared, “for I have betrayed an innocent man.” “What do we care?” they retorted. “That’s your problem.” Then Judas threw the silver coins down in the Temple and went out and hanged himself.”

Jesus came to turn REGRET into REDEMPTION
‭‭
REGRET comes from wishing we had made different choices.

John 18:10-27
“Then Simon Peter drew a sword and slashed off the right ear of Malchus, the high priest’s slave. But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?” So the soldiers, their commanding officer, and the Temple guards arrested Jesus and tied him up. First they took him to Annas, since he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest at that time. Caiaphas was the one who had told the other Jewish leaders, “It’s better that one man should die for the people.” Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another of the disciples. That other disciple was acquainted with the high priest, so he was allowed to enter the high priest’s courtyard with Jesus. Peter had to stay outside the gate. Then the disciple who knew the high priest spoke to the woman watching at the gate, and she let Peter in. The woman asked Peter, “You’re not one of that man’s disciples, are you?” “No,” he said, “I am not.” Because it was cold, the household servants and the guards had made a charcoal fire. They stood around it, warming themselves, and Peter stood with them, warming himself. Inside, the high priest began asking Jesus about his followers and what he had been teaching them. Jesus replied, “Everyone knows what I teach. I have preached regularly in the synagogues and the Temple, where the people gather. I have not spoken in secret. Why are you asking me this question? Ask those who heard me. They know what I said.” Then one of the Temple guards standing nearby slapped Jesus across the face. “Is that the way to answer the high priest?” he demanded. Jesus replied, “If I said anything wrong, you must prove it. But if I’m speaking the truth, why are you beating me?” Then Annas bound Jesus and sent him to Caiaphas, the high priest. Meanwhile, as Simon Peter was standing by the fire warming himself, they asked him again, “You’re not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it, saying, “No, I am not.” But one of the household slaves of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Didn’t I see you out there in the olive grove with Jesus?” Again Peter denied it. And immediately a rooster crowed.”
‭‭
Jesus uses REPENTANCE to turn REGRET into REDEMPTION

2 Corinthians 7:10
“For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death.”

‭‭John 21:15-19
“After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.” “Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him. Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said. A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep. “I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.” Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.”

Jesus turns REGRETS into REDEMPTION!
]]>
Matthew 27:1-5
“Very early in the morning the leading priests and the elders of the people met again to lay plans for putting Jesus to death. Then they bound him, led him away, and took him to Pilate, the Roman governor. When Judas, who had betrayed him, realized that Jesus had been condemned to die, he was filled with remorse. So he took the thirty pieces of silver back to the leading priests and the elders. “I have sinned,” he declared, “for I have betrayed an innocent man.” “What do we care?” they retorted. “That’s your problem.” Then Judas threw the silver coins down in the Temple and went out and hanged himself.”

Jesus came to turn REGRET into REDEMPTION
‭‭
REGRET comes from wishing we had made different choices.

John 18:10-27
“Then Simon Peter drew a sword and slashed off the right ear of Malchus, the high priest’s slave. But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?” So the soldiers, their commanding officer, and the Temple guards arrested Jesus and tied him up. First they took him to Annas, since he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest at that time. Caiaphas was the one who had told the other Jewish leaders, “It’s better that one man should die for the people.” Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another of the disciples. That other disciple was acquainted with the high priest, so he was allowed to enter the high priest’s courtyard with Jesus. Peter had to stay outside the gate. Then the disciple who knew the high priest spoke to the woman watching at the gate, and she let Peter in. The woman asked Peter, “You’re not one of that man’s disciples, are you?” “No,” he said, “I am not.” Because it was cold, the household servants and the guards had made a charcoal fire. They stood around it, warming themselves, and Peter stood with them, warming himself. Inside, the high priest began asking Jesus about his followers and what he had been teaching them. Jesus replied, “Everyone knows what I teach. I have preached regularly in the synagogues and the Temple, where the people gather. I have not spoken in secret. Why are you asking me this question? Ask those who heard me. They know what I said.” Then one of the Temple guards standing nearby slapped Jesus across the face. “Is that the way to answer the high priest?” he demanded. Jesus replied, “If I said anything wrong, you must prove it. But if I’m speaking the truth, why are you beating me?” Then Annas bound Jesus and sent him to Caiaphas, the high priest. Meanwhile, as Simon Peter was standing by the fire warming himself, they asked him again, “You’re not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it, saying, “No, I am not.” But one of the household slaves of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Didn’t I see you out there in the olive grove with Jesus?” Again Peter denied it. And immediately a rooster crowed.”
‭‭
Jesus uses REPENTANCE to turn REGRET into REDEMPTION

2 Corinthians 7:10
“For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death.”

‭‭John 21:15-19
“After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.” “Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him. Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said. A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep. “I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.” Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.”

Jesus turns REGRETS into REDEMPTION!
]]>
Matthew 27:1-5
“Very early in the morning the leading priests and the elders of the people met again to lay plans for putting Jesus to death. Then they bound him, led him away, and took him to Pilate, the Roman governor. When Judas, who had betrayed him, realized that Jesus had been condemned to die, he was filled with remorse. So he took the thirty pieces of silver back to the leading priests and the elders. “I have sinned,” he declared, “for I have betrayed an innocent man.” “What do we care?” they retorted. “That’s your problem.” Then Judas threw the silver coins down in the Temple and went out and hanged himself.”

Jesus came to turn REGRET into REDEMPTION
‭‭
REGRET comes from wishing we had made different choices.

John 18:10-27
“Then Simon Peter drew a sword and slashed off the right ear of Malchus, the high priest’s slave. But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup of suffering the Father has given me?” So the soldiers, their commanding officer, and the Temple guards arrested Jesus and tied him up. First they took him to Annas, since he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest at that time. Caiaphas was the one who had told the other Jewish leaders, “It’s better that one man should die for the people.” Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another of the disciples. That other disciple was acquainted with the high priest, so he was allowed to enter the high priest’s courtyard with Jesus. Peter had to stay outside the gate. Then the disciple who knew the high priest spoke to the woman watching at the gate, and she let Peter in. The woman asked Peter, “You’re not one of that man’s disciples, are you?” “No,” he said, “I am not.” Because it was cold, the household servants and the guards had made a charcoal fire. They stood around it, warming themselves, and Peter stood with them, warming himself. Inside, the high priest began asking Jesus about his followers and what he had been teaching them. Jesus replied, “Everyone knows what I teach. I have preached regularly in the synagogues and the Temple, where the people gather. I have not spoken in secret. Why are you asking me this question? Ask those who heard me. They know what I said.” Then one of the Temple guards standing nearby slapped Jesus across the face. “Is that the way to answer the high priest?” he demanded. Jesus replied, “If I said anything wrong, you must prove it. But if I’m speaking the truth, why are you beating me?” Then Annas bound Jesus and sent him to Caiaphas, the high priest. Meanwhile, as Simon Peter was standing by the fire warming himself, they asked him again, “You’re not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it, saying, “No, I am not.” But one of the household slaves of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Didn’t I see you out there in the olive grove with Jesus?” Again Peter denied it. And immediately a rooster crowed.”
‭‭
Jesus uses REPENTANCE to turn REGRET into REDEMPTION

2 Corinthians 7:10
“For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death.”

‭‭John 21:15-19
“After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.” “Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him. Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?” “Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.” “Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said. A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep. “I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.” Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.”

Jesus turns REGRETS into REDEMPTION!
]]> false Easter Upside Down, Part 3 full podcastepisode_f71e6aa25205498b9a757f0aaeaa8df0 Sun, 6 Apr 2025 06:30:00 -0400
John 13:18-30 NLT

“I am not saying these things to all of you; I know the ones I have chosen. But this fulfills the Scripture that says, ‘The one who eats my food has turned against me.’I tell you this beforehand, so that when it happens you will believe that I AM the Messiah.I tell you the truth, anyone who welcomes my messenger is welcoming me, and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming the Father who sent me.”Now Jesus was deeply troubled, and he exclaimed, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!”The disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he could mean.The disciple Jesus loved was sitting next to Jesus at the table.Simon Peter motioned to him to ask, “Who’s he talking about?”So that disciple leaned over to Jesus and asked, “Lord, who is it?”Jesus responded, “It is the one to whom I give the bread I dip in the bowl.” And when he had dipped it, he gave it to Judas, son of Simon Iscariot.When Judas had eaten the bread, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus told him, “Hurry and do what you’re going to do.”None of the others at the table knew what Jesus meant.Since Judas was their treasurer, some thought Jesus was telling him to go and pay for the food or to give some money to the poor.So Judas left at once, going out into the night.

John 6:14-15 NLT

When the people saw him do this miraculous sign, they exclaimed, “Surely, he is the Prophet we have been expecting!”When Jesus saw that they were ready to force him to be their king, he slipped away into the hills by himself.

Judas had the wrong expectations of Jesus!

Isaiah 55:8-9 NLT

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.

Judas allowed Satan to have a foothold into his life!

John 12:4-6 NLT

But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said“That perfume was worth a year’s wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor.”Not that he cared for the poor—he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself.

Matthew 26:14-16 NLT

Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went to the leading priestsand asked, “How much will you pay me to betray Jesus to you?” And they gave him thirty pieces of silver.From that time on, Judas began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus.

Judas rejected salvation from Jesus!

John 6:64-71 NLT

But some of you do not believe me.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning which ones didn’t believe, and he knew who would betray him.)Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.”At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him.Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?”Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life.We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God.”Then Jesus said, “I chose the twelve of you, but one is a devil.”He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray him.

Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, but he still chose him!

John 13:21-30 NLT

Now Jesus was deeply troubled, and he exclaimed, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!”The disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he could mean.The disciple Jesus loved was sitting next to Jesus at the table.Simon Peter motioned to him to ask, “Who’s he talking about?”So that disciple leaned over to Jesus and asked, “Lord, who is it?”Jesus responded, “It is the one to whom I give the bread I dip in the bowl.” And when he had dipped it, he gave it to Judas, son of Simon Iscariot.When Judas had eaten the bread, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus told him, “Hurry and do what you’re going to do.”None of the others at the table knew what Jesus meant.Since Judas was their treasurer, some thought Jesus was telling him to go and pay for the food or to give some money to the poor.So Judas left at once, going out into the night.

Don't walk away from your opportunity to accept Jesus Christ as your savior today!

Parallel passages for the betrayal of Judas:
Matthew 13:18-30
Mark 14:12-26
Luke 22:1-30
]]>
John 13:18-30 NLT

“I am not saying these things to all of you; I know the ones I have chosen. But this fulfills the Scripture that says, ‘The one who eats my food has turned against me.’I tell you this beforehand, so that when it happens you will believe that I AM the Messiah.I tell you the truth, anyone who welcomes my messenger is welcoming me, and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming the Father who sent me.”Now Jesus was deeply troubled, and he exclaimed, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!”The disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he could mean.The disciple Jesus loved was sitting next to Jesus at the table.Simon Peter motioned to him to ask, “Who’s he talking about?”So that disciple leaned over to Jesus and asked, “Lord, who is it?”Jesus responded, “It is the one to whom I give the bread I dip in the bowl.” And when he had dipped it, he gave it to Judas, son of Simon Iscariot.When Judas had eaten the bread, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus told him, “Hurry and do what you’re going to do.”None of the others at the table knew what Jesus meant.Since Judas was their treasurer, some thought Jesus was telling him to go and pay for the food or to give some money to the poor.So Judas left at once, going out into the night.

John 6:14-15 NLT

When the people saw him do this miraculous sign, they exclaimed, “Surely, he is the Prophet we have been expecting!”When Jesus saw that they were ready to force him to be their king, he slipped away into the hills by himself.

Judas had the wrong expectations of Jesus!

Isaiah 55:8-9 NLT

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.

Judas allowed Satan to have a foothold into his life!

John 12:4-6 NLT

But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said“That perfume was worth a year’s wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor.”Not that he cared for the poor—he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself.

Matthew 26:14-16 NLT

Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went to the leading priestsand asked, “How much will you pay me to betray Jesus to you?” And they gave him thirty pieces of silver.From that time on, Judas began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus.

Judas rejected salvation from Jesus!

John 6:64-71 NLT

But some of you do not believe me.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning which ones didn’t believe, and he knew who would betray him.)Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.”At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him.Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?”Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life.We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God.”Then Jesus said, “I chose the twelve of you, but one is a devil.”He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray him.

Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, but he still chose him!

John 13:21-30 NLT

Now Jesus was deeply troubled, and he exclaimed, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!”The disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he could mean.The disciple Jesus loved was sitting next to Jesus at the table.Simon Peter motioned to him to ask, “Who’s he talking about?”So that disciple leaned over to Jesus and asked, “Lord, who is it?”Jesus responded, “It is the one to whom I give the bread I dip in the bowl.” And when he had dipped it, he gave it to Judas, son of Simon Iscariot.When Judas had eaten the bread, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus told him, “Hurry and do what you’re going to do.”None of the others at the table knew what Jesus meant.Since Judas was their treasurer, some thought Jesus was telling him to go and pay for the food or to give some money to the poor.So Judas left at once, going out into the night.

Don't walk away from your opportunity to accept Jesus Christ as your savior today!

Parallel passages for the betrayal of Judas:
Matthew 13:18-30
Mark 14:12-26
Luke 22:1-30
]]>
John 13:18-30 NLT

“I am not saying these things to all of you; I know the ones I have chosen. But this fulfills the Scripture that says, ‘The one who eats my food has turned against me.’I tell you this beforehand, so that when it happens you will believe that I AM the Messiah.I tell you the truth, anyone who welcomes my messenger is welcoming me, and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming the Father who sent me.”Now Jesus was deeply troubled, and he exclaimed, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!”The disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he could mean.The disciple Jesus loved was sitting next to Jesus at the table.Simon Peter motioned to him to ask, “Who’s he talking about?”So that disciple leaned over to Jesus and asked, “Lord, who is it?”Jesus responded, “It is the one to whom I give the bread I dip in the bowl.” And when he had dipped it, he gave it to Judas, son of Simon Iscariot.When Judas had eaten the bread, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus told him, “Hurry and do what you’re going to do.”None of the others at the table knew what Jesus meant.Since Judas was their treasurer, some thought Jesus was telling him to go and pay for the food or to give some money to the poor.So Judas left at once, going out into the night.

John 6:14-15 NLT

When the people saw him do this miraculous sign, they exclaimed, “Surely, he is the Prophet we have been expecting!”When Jesus saw that they were ready to force him to be their king, he slipped away into the hills by himself.

Judas had the wrong expectations of Jesus!

Isaiah 55:8-9 NLT

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.

Judas allowed Satan to have a foothold into his life!

John 12:4-6 NLT

But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said“That perfume was worth a year’s wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor.”Not that he cared for the poor—he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself.

Matthew 26:14-16 NLT

Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve disciples, went to the leading priestsand asked, “How much will you pay me to betray Jesus to you?” And they gave him thirty pieces of silver.From that time on, Judas began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus.

Judas rejected salvation from Jesus!

John 6:64-71 NLT

But some of you do not believe me.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning which ones didn’t believe, and he knew who would betray him.)Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.”At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him.Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?”Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life.We believe, and we know you are the Holy One of God.”Then Jesus said, “I chose the twelve of you, but one is a devil.”He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray him.

Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, but he still chose him!

John 13:21-30 NLT

Now Jesus was deeply troubled, and he exclaimed, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!”The disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he could mean.The disciple Jesus loved was sitting next to Jesus at the table.Simon Peter motioned to him to ask, “Who’s he talking about?”So that disciple leaned over to Jesus and asked, “Lord, who is it?”Jesus responded, “It is the one to whom I give the bread I dip in the bowl.” And when he had dipped it, he gave it to Judas, son of Simon Iscariot.When Judas had eaten the bread, Satan entered into him. Then Jesus told him, “Hurry and do what you’re going to do.”None of the others at the table knew what Jesus meant.Since Judas was their treasurer, some thought Jesus was telling him to go and pay for the food or to give some money to the poor.So Judas left at once, going out into the night.

Don't walk away from your opportunity to accept Jesus Christ as your savior today!

Parallel passages for the betrayal of Judas:
Matthew 13:18-30
Mark 14:12-26
Luke 22:1-30
]]> false Easter Upside Down, Part 2 full podcastepisode_5ad464f607cf4f07b15008163ff10d25 Sun, 30 Mar 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Mark 14:12-25 NIV

On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, when it was customary to sacrifice the Passover lamb, Jesus’ disciples asked him, “Where do you want us to go and make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”So he sent two of his disciples, telling them, “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him.Say to the owner of the house he enters, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’He will show you a large room upstairs, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there.”The disciples left, went into the city and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.When evening came, Jesus arrived with the Twelve.While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me—one who is eating with me.”They were saddened, and one by one they said to him, “Surely you don’t mean me?”“It is one of the Twelve,” he replied, “one who dips bread into the bowl with me.The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.”While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.”Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank from it.“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,” he said to them.“Truly I tell you, I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”

Jeremiah 31:31-33 NIV

“The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah.It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the LORD.“This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the LORD. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.

2 Peter 3:9 NIV

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

JESUS came to Reverse the Curse of Sin and Turn our Upside-Down World, Right Side Up Again!


]]>
Mark 14:12-25 NIV

On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, when it was customary to sacrifice the Passover lamb, Jesus’ disciples asked him, “Where do you want us to go and make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”So he sent two of his disciples, telling them, “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him.Say to the owner of the house he enters, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’He will show you a large room upstairs, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there.”The disciples left, went into the city and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.When evening came, Jesus arrived with the Twelve.While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me—one who is eating with me.”They were saddened, and one by one they said to him, “Surely you don’t mean me?”“It is one of the Twelve,” he replied, “one who dips bread into the bowl with me.The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.”While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.”Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank from it.“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,” he said to them.“Truly I tell you, I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”

Jeremiah 31:31-33 NIV

“The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah.It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the LORD.“This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the LORD. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.

2 Peter 3:9 NIV

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

JESUS came to Reverse the Curse of Sin and Turn our Upside-Down World, Right Side Up Again!


]]>
Mark 14:12-25 NIV

On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, when it was customary to sacrifice the Passover lamb, Jesus’ disciples asked him, “Where do you want us to go and make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”So he sent two of his disciples, telling them, “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him.Say to the owner of the house he enters, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’He will show you a large room upstairs, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there.”The disciples left, went into the city and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.When evening came, Jesus arrived with the Twelve.While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me—one who is eating with me.”They were saddened, and one by one they said to him, “Surely you don’t mean me?”“It is one of the Twelve,” he replied, “one who dips bread into the bowl with me.The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.”While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.”Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank from it.“This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,” he said to them.“Truly I tell you, I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”

Jeremiah 31:31-33 NIV

“The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah.It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the LORD.“This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the LORD. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.

2 Peter 3:9 NIV

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

JESUS came to Reverse the Curse of Sin and Turn our Upside-Down World, Right Side Up Again!


]]> false Easter Upside Down, Part 1 full podcastepisode_40bda2607601486a8a2b58699129f1f3 Sun, 23 Mar 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Acts 17:6-7 NIV

But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: “These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come hereand Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus.”

Jesus came to turn the world upside down!

John 12:1-8 NIV

Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead.Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him.Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected“Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.”He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.“Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”

Jesus came to turn our distorted, disingenuous, distracted, disengaged worship UPSIDE DOWN!

Authentic Worship offers God our BEST!

Authentic Worship COSTS us something!

Authentic Worship is ONLY FOCUSED on JESUS!

APPLICATION: Would you ask your own heart, “Why am I here?” Do your motives need to change this morning? Do you need Jesus to turn your worship UPSIDE DOWN?
]]>
Acts 17:6-7 NIV

But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: “These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come hereand Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus.”

Jesus came to turn the world upside down!

John 12:1-8 NIV

Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead.Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him.Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected“Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.”He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.“Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”

Jesus came to turn our distorted, disingenuous, distracted, disengaged worship UPSIDE DOWN!

Authentic Worship offers God our BEST!

Authentic Worship COSTS us something!

Authentic Worship is ONLY FOCUSED on JESUS!

APPLICATION: Would you ask your own heart, “Why am I here?” Do your motives need to change this morning? Do you need Jesus to turn your worship UPSIDE DOWN?
]]>
Acts 17:6-7 NIV

But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some other believers before the city officials, shouting: “These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come hereand Jason has welcomed them into his house. They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus.”

Jesus came to turn the world upside down!

John 12:1-8 NIV

Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead.Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him.Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected“Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.”He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.“Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”

Jesus came to turn our distorted, disingenuous, distracted, disengaged worship UPSIDE DOWN!

Authentic Worship offers God our BEST!

Authentic Worship COSTS us something!

Authentic Worship is ONLY FOCUSED on JESUS!

APPLICATION: Would you ask your own heart, “Why am I here?” Do your motives need to change this morning? Do you need Jesus to turn your worship UPSIDE DOWN?
]]> false The Way of Wisdom, A Series on Proverbs, Part 11 full podcastepisode_47884a245b474468bec994730ded0190 Sun, 16 Mar 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Proverbs 8:10-11 NIV

Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.

"A Life of Wisdom Empowers us to Make Wise Choices."

Proverbs 2:1-15 NIV

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path.For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse who have left the straight paths to walk in dark ways who delight in doing wrong and rejoice in the perverseness of evil whose paths are crooked and who are devious in their ways.

How do we make wise choices?

1. We start with a healthy fear of the Lord.

Proverbs 1:1-7 NIV

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

How do we make wise choices?

1. We start with a healthy fear of the Lord.

2. We prioritize our search for wisdom in the Word of God.

Proverbs 2:1-6 NIV

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

How do we make wise choices?

1. We start with a healthy fear of the Lord.

2. We prioritize our search for wisdom in the Word of God.

3. We trust God with everything.


Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Choices of Preference

Choices of Morality & Ethics

Choices of Priority

What's next for you? What are you going to DO with what you learned in this study of Proverbs?
]]>
Proverbs 8:10-11 NIV

Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.

"A Life of Wisdom Empowers us to Make Wise Choices."

Proverbs 2:1-15 NIV

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path.For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse who have left the straight paths to walk in dark ways who delight in doing wrong and rejoice in the perverseness of evil whose paths are crooked and who are devious in their ways.

How do we make wise choices?

1. We start with a healthy fear of the Lord.

Proverbs 1:1-7 NIV

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

How do we make wise choices?

1. We start with a healthy fear of the Lord.

2. We prioritize our search for wisdom in the Word of God.

Proverbs 2:1-6 NIV

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

How do we make wise choices?

1. We start with a healthy fear of the Lord.

2. We prioritize our search for wisdom in the Word of God.

3. We trust God with everything.


Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Choices of Preference

Choices of Morality & Ethics

Choices of Priority

What's next for you? What are you going to DO with what you learned in this study of Proverbs?
]]>
Proverbs 8:10-11 NIV

Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.

"A Life of Wisdom Empowers us to Make Wise Choices."

Proverbs 2:1-15 NIV

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.Then you will understand what is right and just and fair—every good path.For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.Wisdom will save you from the ways of wicked men, from men whose words are perverse who have left the straight paths to walk in dark ways who delight in doing wrong and rejoice in the perverseness of evil whose paths are crooked and who are devious in their ways.

How do we make wise choices?

1. We start with a healthy fear of the Lord.

Proverbs 1:1-7 NIV

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise.The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

How do we make wise choices?

1. We start with a healthy fear of the Lord.

2. We prioritize our search for wisdom in the Word of God.

Proverbs 2:1-6 NIV

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

How do we make wise choices?

1. We start with a healthy fear of the Lord.

2. We prioritize our search for wisdom in the Word of God.

3. We trust God with everything.


Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Choices of Preference

Choices of Morality & Ethics

Choices of Priority

What's next for you? What are you going to DO with what you learned in this study of Proverbs?
]]> false The Way of Wisdom, A Series on Proverbs, Part 10 full podcastepisode_f478e6f8ce4c4158ba8f54e76c775522 Sun, 9 Mar 2025 06:30:00 -0400
Proverbs 9:9 NIV

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.

"A Life of Wisdom is a Life of Learning."

Learning should be a LIFE-LONG PURSUIT.

Proverbs 18:15 NIV

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.

Proverbs 1:5 ESV

Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance

Learning should be FILTERED through BIBLICAL TRUTH

Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Psalm 25:4-5 ESV

Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths.Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.

2 Timothy 3:1-7 NIV

But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days.People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholywithout love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the goodtreacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of Godhaving a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.

Learning should be BUILDING our CHARACTER

Proverbs 9:9 NIV

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.

Proverbs 1:7 NIV

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 15:32-33 NIV

Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the LORD, and humility comes before honor.

Proverbs 19:25-27 NIV

Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge.Whoever robs their father and drives out their mother is a child who brings shame and disgrace.Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.

Learning MUST be PASSED ON!

Proverbs 1:1-4 NIV

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israelfor gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insightfor receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fairfor giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young

Deuteronomy 11:18-21 NIV

Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gatesso that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth.

Psalms 71:17 NIV

Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.

Psalms 78:4-7 NIV

We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their childrenso the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children.Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.

Judges 2:6-12 NIV

After Joshua had dismissed the Israelites, they went to take possession of the land, each to their own inheritance.The people served the LORD throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him and who had seen all the great things the LORD had done for Israel.Joshua son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died at the age of a hundred and ten.And they buried him in the land of his inheritance, at Timnath Heres in the hill country of Ephraim, north of Mount Gaash.After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the LORD nor what he had done for Israel.Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD and served the Baals.They forsook the LORD, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They aroused the LORD’s anger

A Life of Wisdom is a Life of Learning!


What are you going to DO with what you’ve learned?

How are you going to APPLY the truth of God’s Word in your life this week?

What are you doing to help pass Biblical Truth on to the next generation?
]]>
Proverbs 9:9 NIV

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.

"A Life of Wisdom is a Life of Learning."

Learning should be a LIFE-LONG PURSUIT.

Proverbs 18:15 NIV

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.

Proverbs 1:5 ESV

Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance

Learning should be FILTERED through BIBLICAL TRUTH

Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Psalm 25:4-5 ESV

Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths.Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.

2 Timothy 3:1-7 NIV

But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days.People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholywithout love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the goodtreacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of Godhaving a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.

Learning should be BUILDING our CHARACTER

Proverbs 9:9 NIV

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.

Proverbs 1:7 NIV

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 15:32-33 NIV

Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the LORD, and humility comes before honor.

Proverbs 19:25-27 NIV

Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge.Whoever robs their father and drives out their mother is a child who brings shame and disgrace.Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.

Learning MUST be PASSED ON!

Proverbs 1:1-4 NIV

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israelfor gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insightfor receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fairfor giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young

Deuteronomy 11:18-21 NIV

Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gatesso that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth.

Psalms 71:17 NIV

Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.

Psalms 78:4-7 NIV

We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their childrenso the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children.Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.

Judges 2:6-12 NIV

After Joshua had dismissed the Israelites, they went to take possession of the land, each to their own inheritance.The people served the LORD throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him and who had seen all the great things the LORD had done for Israel.Joshua son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died at the age of a hundred and ten.And they buried him in the land of his inheritance, at Timnath Heres in the hill country of Ephraim, north of Mount Gaash.After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the LORD nor what he had done for Israel.Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD and served the Baals.They forsook the LORD, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They aroused the LORD’s anger

A Life of Wisdom is a Life of Learning!


What are you going to DO with what you’ve learned?

How are you going to APPLY the truth of God’s Word in your life this week?

What are you doing to help pass Biblical Truth on to the next generation?
]]>
Proverbs 9:9 NIV

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.

"A Life of Wisdom is a Life of Learning."

Learning should be a LIFE-LONG PURSUIT.

Proverbs 18:15 NIV

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.

Proverbs 1:5 ESV

Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance

Learning should be FILTERED through BIBLICAL TRUTH

Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Psalm 25:4-5 ESV

Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths.Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.

2 Timothy 3:1-7 NIV

But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days.People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholywithout love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the goodtreacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of Godhaving a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.

Learning should be BUILDING our CHARACTER

Proverbs 9:9 NIV

Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.

Proverbs 1:7 NIV

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 15:32-33 NIV

Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding.Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the LORD, and humility comes before honor.

Proverbs 19:25-27 NIV

Flog a mocker, and the simple will learn prudence; rebuke the discerning, and they will gain knowledge.Whoever robs their father and drives out their mother is a child who brings shame and disgrace.Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.

Learning MUST be PASSED ON!

Proverbs 1:1-4 NIV

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israelfor gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insightfor receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fairfor giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young

Deuteronomy 11:18-21 NIV

Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gatesso that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth.

Psalms 71:17 NIV

Since my youth, God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.

Psalms 78:4-7 NIV

We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our ancestors to teach their childrenso the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children.Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands.

Judges 2:6-12 NIV

After Joshua had dismissed the Israelites, they went to take possession of the land, each to their own inheritance.The people served the LORD throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him and who had seen all the great things the LORD had done for Israel.Joshua son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died at the age of a hundred and ten.And they buried him in the land of his inheritance, at Timnath Heres in the hill country of Ephraim, north of Mount Gaash.After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the LORD nor what he had done for Israel.Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD and served the Baals.They forsook the LORD, the God of their ancestors, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They aroused the LORD’s anger

A Life of Wisdom is a Life of Learning!


What are you going to DO with what you’ve learned?

How are you going to APPLY the truth of God’s Word in your life this week?

What are you doing to help pass Biblical Truth on to the next generation?
]]> false The Way of Wisdom, A Series on Proverbs, Part 9 full podcastepisode_3c813c60e40c413dbeb2fa3b5526f5b6 Sun, 2 Mar 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Luke 6:43-45 NIV

“No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers.A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

“Both the spoken and written word have POWER and the WISE choose to SPEAK with KINDNESS.”

Proverbs 15:1 NLT

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

Kind Words Reduce Tension

Proverbs 16:24 NLT

Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

Proverbs 12:18 NLT

Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.

Kind Words Promote Healing

Ephesians 4:29 NIV

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Proverbs 18:21 NLT

The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

Kind Words Breathe Life

What's your next step? How will you choose kind words this week?
]]>
Luke 6:43-45 NIV

“No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers.A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

“Both the spoken and written word have POWER and the WISE choose to SPEAK with KINDNESS.”

Proverbs 15:1 NLT

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

Kind Words Reduce Tension

Proverbs 16:24 NLT

Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

Proverbs 12:18 NLT

Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.

Kind Words Promote Healing

Ephesians 4:29 NIV

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Proverbs 18:21 NLT

The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

Kind Words Breathe Life

What's your next step? How will you choose kind words this week?
]]>
Luke 6:43-45 NIV

“No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers.A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

“Both the spoken and written word have POWER and the WISE choose to SPEAK with KINDNESS.”

Proverbs 15:1 NLT

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

Kind Words Reduce Tension

Proverbs 16:24 NLT

Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

Proverbs 12:18 NLT

Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.

Kind Words Promote Healing

Ephesians 4:29 NIV

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Proverbs 18:21 NLT

The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

Kind Words Breathe Life

What's your next step? How will you choose kind words this week?
]]> false The Way of Wisdom, A Series in Proverbs, Part 8 full podcastepisode_ff2db90a288448f99989815b3b729ac7 Sun, 23 Feb 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Proverbs 12:22 NLT

The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.

Genesis 1:31 NIV

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.

“Lying leads to death and destruction.”

Jeremiah 28:15-16 NIV

Then the prophet Jeremiah said to Hananiah the prophet, “Listen, Hananiah! The LORD has not sent you, yet you have persuaded this nation to trust in lies.Therefore this is what the LORD says: ‘I am about to remove you from the face of the earth. This very year you are going to die, because you have preached rebellion against the LORD.’ ”

Revelation 22:15 NIV

Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.

John 8:31-32 NIV

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

"TRUTH is God revealing himself through words."

Proverbs 30:5 NIV

“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.


John 14:6 NIV

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.


John 14:17 NIV

the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

The Wise Speak TRUTH

Proverbs 22:17-21 NIV

Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips.So that your trust may be in the LORD, I teach you today, even you.Have I not written thirty sayings for you, sayings of counsel and knowledge teaching you to be honest and to speak the truth, so that you bring back truthful reports to those you serve?

John 8:42-47 NIV

Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me.Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say.You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me!Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me?Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”

]]>
Proverbs 12:22 NLT

The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.

Genesis 1:31 NIV

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.

“Lying leads to death and destruction.”

Jeremiah 28:15-16 NIV

Then the prophet Jeremiah said to Hananiah the prophet, “Listen, Hananiah! The LORD has not sent you, yet you have persuaded this nation to trust in lies.Therefore this is what the LORD says: ‘I am about to remove you from the face of the earth. This very year you are going to die, because you have preached rebellion against the LORD.’ ”

Revelation 22:15 NIV

Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.

John 8:31-32 NIV

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

"TRUTH is God revealing himself through words."

Proverbs 30:5 NIV

“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.


John 14:6 NIV

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.


John 14:17 NIV

the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

The Wise Speak TRUTH

Proverbs 22:17-21 NIV

Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips.So that your trust may be in the LORD, I teach you today, even you.Have I not written thirty sayings for you, sayings of counsel and knowledge teaching you to be honest and to speak the truth, so that you bring back truthful reports to those you serve?

John 8:42-47 NIV

Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me.Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say.You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me!Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me?Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”

]]>
Proverbs 12:22 NLT

The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in those who tell the truth.

Genesis 1:31 NIV

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.

“Lying leads to death and destruction.”

Jeremiah 28:15-16 NIV

Then the prophet Jeremiah said to Hananiah the prophet, “Listen, Hananiah! The LORD has not sent you, yet you have persuaded this nation to trust in lies.Therefore this is what the LORD says: ‘I am about to remove you from the face of the earth. This very year you are going to die, because you have preached rebellion against the LORD.’ ”

Revelation 22:15 NIV

Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.

John 8:31-32 NIV

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

"TRUTH is God revealing himself through words."

Proverbs 30:5 NIV

“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.


John 14:6 NIV

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.


John 14:17 NIV

the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

The Wise Speak TRUTH

Proverbs 22:17-21 NIV

Pay attention and turn your ear to the sayings of the wise; apply your heart to what I teach for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips.So that your trust may be in the LORD, I teach you today, even you.Have I not written thirty sayings for you, sayings of counsel and knowledge teaching you to be honest and to speak the truth, so that you bring back truthful reports to those you serve?

John 8:42-47 NIV

Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I have come here from God. I have not come on my own; God sent me.Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say.You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me!Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me?Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”

]]> false The Way of Wisdom, A Series in Proverbs, Part 6 full podcastepisode_1f44856b9d35431fbea19dc132b3f278 Sun, 9 Feb 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Proverbs 14:21 ESV

Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.

A Heart of Generosity Flows from a Life of Wisdom.

3 Ways Wisdom helps us live a life of Generosity.

1. Wisdom helps us understand God's view of Generosity.

2. Wisdom motivates our hearts to be Generous for the right reasons.

3. Wisdom gives us discernment about the best way to be Generous.

James 1:17 ESV

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

Matthew 5:45 ESV

so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

Proverbs 14:31 ESV

Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.


1 Corinthians 16:2 ESV

On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.

2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.


Mark 12:38-44 ESV

And in his teaching he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and like greetings in the marketplacesand have the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feastswho devour widows’ houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums.And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny.And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box.For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”

Matthew 6:1-4 ESV

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doingso that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Matthew 6:21-24 ESV

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.“The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of lightbut if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.

Proverbs 19:17 ESV

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed.

2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 ESV

Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with younor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you.It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate.For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies.Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.

A Heart of Generosity Flows from a Life of Wisdom!

]]>
Proverbs 14:21 ESV

Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.

A Heart of Generosity Flows from a Life of Wisdom.

3 Ways Wisdom helps us live a life of Generosity.

1. Wisdom helps us understand God's view of Generosity.

2. Wisdom motivates our hearts to be Generous for the right reasons.

3. Wisdom gives us discernment about the best way to be Generous.

James 1:17 ESV

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

Matthew 5:45 ESV

so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

Proverbs 14:31 ESV

Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.


1 Corinthians 16:2 ESV

On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.

2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.


Mark 12:38-44 ESV

And in his teaching he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and like greetings in the marketplacesand have the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feastswho devour widows’ houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums.And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny.And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box.For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”

Matthew 6:1-4 ESV

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doingso that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Matthew 6:21-24 ESV

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.“The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of lightbut if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.

Proverbs 19:17 ESV

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed.

2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 ESV

Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with younor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you.It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate.For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies.Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.

A Heart of Generosity Flows from a Life of Wisdom!

]]>
Proverbs 14:21 ESV

Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.

A Heart of Generosity Flows from a Life of Wisdom.

3 Ways Wisdom helps us live a life of Generosity.

1. Wisdom helps us understand God's view of Generosity.

2. Wisdom motivates our hearts to be Generous for the right reasons.

3. Wisdom gives us discernment about the best way to be Generous.

James 1:17 ESV

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

Matthew 5:45 ESV

so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

Proverbs 14:31 ESV

Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.


1 Corinthians 16:2 ESV

On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.

2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.


Mark 12:38-44 ESV

And in his teaching he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and like greetings in the marketplacesand have the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feastswho devour widows’ houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums.And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny.And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box.For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”

Matthew 6:1-4 ESV

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doingso that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Matthew 6:21-24 ESV

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.“The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of lightbut if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.

Proverbs 19:17 ESV

Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed.

2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 ESV

Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with younor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you.It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate.For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies.Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.

A Heart of Generosity Flows from a Life of Wisdom!

]]> false The Way of Wisdom, A Series on Proverbs, Part 5 full podcastepisode_15afc6d6cd8b445cb052bcf1630c9c89 Sun, 2 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0400 A Patient Person is a Wise Person
]]> A Patient Person is a Wise Person
]]> A Patient Person is a Wise Person
]]> false The Way of Wisdom, A Series on Proverbs, Part 3 full podcastepisode_336fe1fa74ed4fb8b946d85c645da189 Sun, 19 Jan 2025 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Way of Wisdom, A Series on Proverbs, Part 4 full podcastepisode_d8e65849d7bf46ce91c4ccecefa3e3f9 Sun, 26 Jan 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Proverbs 22:6 ESV

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Wise Parenting Starts with a GOAL!

Proverbs 3:11-12 ESV

My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline or be weary of his reprooffor the LORD reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.

Proverbs 13:24 ESV

Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.

TO REACH OUR PARENTING GOALS we start with a FOUNDATION of LOVE!

Proverbs 22:6 ESV

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Proverbs 1:8-9 ESV

Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teachingfor they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck.

Proverbs 3:1-2 ESV

My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandmentsfor length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you.

What do we TEACH/ TRAIN?
1. To fear the Lord
2. To respect the Word of God

Proverbs 1:7 ESV

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 2:6 ESV

For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding

Proverbs 13:13 ESV

Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded.

Be Strategic and Consistent in Discipline

Proverbs 3:11-12 ESV

My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline or be weary of his reprooffor the LORD reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.

Proverbs 13:24 ESV

Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.

Proverbs 22:15 ESV

Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.

Proverbs 29:15 ESV

The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

Ephesians 6:4 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

WISE PARENTING is more fun with CHILDREN WHO WANT WISDOM!

Proverbs 15:5 ESV

A fool despises his father’s instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is prudent.

Proverbs 15:20 ESV

A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man despises his mother.
]]>
Proverbs 22:6 ESV

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Wise Parenting Starts with a GOAL!

Proverbs 3:11-12 ESV

My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline or be weary of his reprooffor the LORD reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.

Proverbs 13:24 ESV

Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.

TO REACH OUR PARENTING GOALS we start with a FOUNDATION of LOVE!

Proverbs 22:6 ESV

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Proverbs 1:8-9 ESV

Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teachingfor they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck.

Proverbs 3:1-2 ESV

My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandmentsfor length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you.

What do we TEACH/ TRAIN?
1. To fear the Lord
2. To respect the Word of God

Proverbs 1:7 ESV

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 2:6 ESV

For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding

Proverbs 13:13 ESV

Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded.

Be Strategic and Consistent in Discipline

Proverbs 3:11-12 ESV

My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline or be weary of his reprooffor the LORD reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.

Proverbs 13:24 ESV

Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.

Proverbs 22:15 ESV

Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.

Proverbs 29:15 ESV

The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

Ephesians 6:4 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

WISE PARENTING is more fun with CHILDREN WHO WANT WISDOM!

Proverbs 15:5 ESV

A fool despises his father’s instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is prudent.

Proverbs 15:20 ESV

A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man despises his mother.
]]>
Proverbs 22:6 ESV

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Wise Parenting Starts with a GOAL!

Proverbs 3:11-12 ESV

My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline or be weary of his reprooffor the LORD reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.

Proverbs 13:24 ESV

Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.

TO REACH OUR PARENTING GOALS we start with a FOUNDATION of LOVE!

Proverbs 22:6 ESV

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Proverbs 1:8-9 ESV

Hear, my son, your father’s instruction, and forsake not your mother’s teachingfor they are a graceful garland for your head and pendants for your neck.

Proverbs 3:1-2 ESV

My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandmentsfor length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you.

What do we TEACH/ TRAIN?
1. To fear the Lord
2. To respect the Word of God

Proverbs 1:7 ESV

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 2:6 ESV

For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding

Proverbs 13:13 ESV

Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded.

Be Strategic and Consistent in Discipline

Proverbs 3:11-12 ESV

My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline or be weary of his reprooffor the LORD reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.

Proverbs 13:24 ESV

Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him.

Proverbs 22:15 ESV

Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of discipline drives it far from him.

Proverbs 29:15 ESV

The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

Ephesians 6:4 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

WISE PARENTING is more fun with CHILDREN WHO WANT WISDOM!

Proverbs 15:5 ESV

A fool despises his father’s instruction, but whoever heeds reproof is prudent.

Proverbs 15:20 ESV

A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man despises his mother.
]]> false The Way of Wisdom, A Series on Proverbs, Part 2 full podcastepisode_a04440c8f9c74df793a8cc069ab44b55 Sun, 12 Jan 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Proverbs 9:10 NIV

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

A life of wisdom starts with a healthy fear of the Lord.

Proverbs 2:1-5 NIV

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.

A healthy fear of the Lord helps us avoid evil.

Proverbs 3:7 NIV

Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.

Proverbs 8:13 NIV

To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.

Proverbs 16:6 NIV

Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the LORD evil is avoided.

A healthy fear of the Lord helps us stay alive longer.

Proverbs 10:27 NIV

The fear of the LORD adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.

Proverbs 14:27 NIV

The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death.

A healthy fear of the Lord helps us stay content.

Proverbs 19:23 NIV

The fear of the LORD leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.

Proverbs 22:4 NIV

Humility is the fear of the LORD; its wages are riches and honor and life.

Philippians 4:11-13 NIV

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

A life of wisdom starts with a healthy fear of the Lord.

Do you have a healthy fear of the Lord?
]]>
Proverbs 9:10 NIV

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

A life of wisdom starts with a healthy fear of the Lord.

Proverbs 2:1-5 NIV

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.

A healthy fear of the Lord helps us avoid evil.

Proverbs 3:7 NIV

Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.

Proverbs 8:13 NIV

To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.

Proverbs 16:6 NIV

Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the LORD evil is avoided.

A healthy fear of the Lord helps us stay alive longer.

Proverbs 10:27 NIV

The fear of the LORD adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.

Proverbs 14:27 NIV

The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death.

A healthy fear of the Lord helps us stay content.

Proverbs 19:23 NIV

The fear of the LORD leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.

Proverbs 22:4 NIV

Humility is the fear of the LORD; its wages are riches and honor and life.

Philippians 4:11-13 NIV

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

A life of wisdom starts with a healthy fear of the Lord.

Do you have a healthy fear of the Lord?
]]>
Proverbs 9:10 NIV

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

A life of wisdom starts with a healthy fear of the Lord.

Proverbs 2:1-5 NIV

My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.

A healthy fear of the Lord helps us avoid evil.

Proverbs 3:7 NIV

Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.

Proverbs 8:13 NIV

To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.

Proverbs 16:6 NIV

Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the LORD evil is avoided.

A healthy fear of the Lord helps us stay alive longer.

Proverbs 10:27 NIV

The fear of the LORD adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.

Proverbs 14:27 NIV

The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death.

A healthy fear of the Lord helps us stay content.

Proverbs 19:23 NIV

The fear of the LORD leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.

Proverbs 22:4 NIV

Humility is the fear of the LORD; its wages are riches and honor and life.

Philippians 4:11-13 NIV

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

A life of wisdom starts with a healthy fear of the Lord.

Do you have a healthy fear of the Lord?
]]> false The Way of Wisdom, A Series on Proverbs, Part 1 full podcastepisode_af9922aa5d664f0cac47afba76f66cf3 Sun, 5 Jan 2025 05:30:00 -0400
Proverbs 1:1-4 NIV

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israelfor gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insightfor receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fairfor giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young

What is WISDOM and why does it matter?

A PROVERB is a simple statement that teaches a fundamental principle for life that can be applied to multiple settings and situations.

WISDOM is divine knowledge of how to live in the world God created.

Biblical Wisdom matters because it helps us live a “disciplined and prudent life”

Biblical Wisdom matters because it aligns our hearts with the heart of God

Biblical Wisdom matters because it reminds us how much we NEED JESUS!

Biblical Wisdom is ATTAINABLE but it must be APPLIED!

Bible Project Video of Proverbs
This video is a brief overview of the book of Proverbs.
https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs/
]]>
Proverbs 1:1-4 NIV

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israelfor gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insightfor receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fairfor giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young

What is WISDOM and why does it matter?

A PROVERB is a simple statement that teaches a fundamental principle for life that can be applied to multiple settings and situations.

WISDOM is divine knowledge of how to live in the world God created.

Biblical Wisdom matters because it helps us live a “disciplined and prudent life”

Biblical Wisdom matters because it aligns our hearts with the heart of God

Biblical Wisdom matters because it reminds us how much we NEED JESUS!

Biblical Wisdom is ATTAINABLE but it must be APPLIED!

Bible Project Video of Proverbs
This video is a brief overview of the book of Proverbs.
https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs/
]]>
Proverbs 1:1-4 NIV

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israelfor gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insightfor receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fairfor giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young

What is WISDOM and why does it matter?

A PROVERB is a simple statement that teaches a fundamental principle for life that can be applied to multiple settings and situations.

WISDOM is divine knowledge of how to live in the world God created.

Biblical Wisdom matters because it helps us live a “disciplined and prudent life”

Biblical Wisdom matters because it aligns our hearts with the heart of God

Biblical Wisdom matters because it reminds us how much we NEED JESUS!

Biblical Wisdom is ATTAINABLE but it must be APPLIED!

Bible Project Video of Proverbs
This video is a brief overview of the book of Proverbs.
https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/proverbs/
]]> false A Brand New Year, An Ambassador for Jesus! full podcastepisode_2fa2e170180a43b3834984bdbad6d3a8 Sun, 29 Dec 2024 05:30:00 -0400
And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him.For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”

"A follower of Jesus is an AMBASSADOR for Jesus"

2 Corinthians 5:14-20 NLT

Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life.He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now!This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him.For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”

A Brand New Year - A Brand New YOU!
"A follower of Jesus is an ambassador for Jesus!"
]]>
And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him.For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”

"A follower of Jesus is an AMBASSADOR for Jesus"

2 Corinthians 5:14-20 NLT

Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life.He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now!This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him.For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”

A Brand New Year - A Brand New YOU!
"A follower of Jesus is an ambassador for Jesus!"
]]>
And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him.For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”

"A follower of Jesus is an AMBASSADOR for Jesus"

2 Corinthians 5:14-20 NLT

Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life.He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.So we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now!This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him.For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!”

A Brand New Year - A Brand New YOU!
"A follower of Jesus is an ambassador for Jesus!"
]]> false The Chosen, Holy Night, Part 4 full podcastepisode_d257549c8fc94c2dac2295a0357a6f29 Sun, 22 Dec 2024 05:30:00 -0400
John 3:16-18 NIV

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

Christmas is a reminder to continue to respond to God's gift of LOVE!

Luke 2:6-14 NIV

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be bornand she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of Godnot by works, so that no one can boast.

Luke 2:15-16 NIV

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

John 16:13 NIV

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

Psalms 119:105 NIV

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

Luke 2:17-18 NIV

When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this childand all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

Luke 2:20 NIV

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

Christmas reminds us to respond to God's gift of love by:

Following God's guidance

Spreading the Good News of God's love

Continung to Praise God for His amazing love
]]>
John 3:16-18 NIV

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

Christmas is a reminder to continue to respond to God's gift of LOVE!

Luke 2:6-14 NIV

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be bornand she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of Godnot by works, so that no one can boast.

Luke 2:15-16 NIV

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

John 16:13 NIV

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

Psalms 119:105 NIV

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

Luke 2:17-18 NIV

When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this childand all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

Luke 2:20 NIV

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

Christmas reminds us to respond to God's gift of love by:

Following God's guidance

Spreading the Good News of God's love

Continung to Praise God for His amazing love
]]>
John 3:16-18 NIV

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

Christmas is a reminder to continue to respond to God's gift of LOVE!

Luke 2:6-14 NIV

While they were there, the time came for the baby to be bornand she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of Godnot by works, so that no one can boast.

Luke 2:15-16 NIV

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

John 16:13 NIV

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

Psalms 119:105 NIV

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

Luke 2:17-18 NIV

When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this childand all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

Luke 2:20 NIV

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

Christmas reminds us to respond to God's gift of love by:

Following God's guidance

Spreading the Good News of God's love

Continung to Praise God for His amazing love
]]> false The Chosen, Holy Night, Part 3 full podcastepisode_a91afaa1adb14753b78da91b100f43a2 Sun, 15 Dec 2024 05:30:00 -0400
Luke 2:8-15 NIV

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

"The Good News of Jesus is that we can live a JOYFUL LIFE in a JOYLESS WORLD."

What is JOY? "An emotion of glad or cheerful contentment"

James 1:2-3 NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

The Joy of the Lord is a GIFT from God. (John 15)

The Joy of the Lord is a FRUIT of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22)

The Joy of the Lord is a RESPONSE to God. (Philippians 4:4-8)

What does a world desperate for JOY experience when they are around YOU? Are they seeing the JOY of the Lord in your life?
]]>
Luke 2:8-15 NIV

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

"The Good News of Jesus is that we can live a JOYFUL LIFE in a JOYLESS WORLD."

What is JOY? "An emotion of glad or cheerful contentment"

James 1:2-3 NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

The Joy of the Lord is a GIFT from God. (John 15)

The Joy of the Lord is a FRUIT of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22)

The Joy of the Lord is a RESPONSE to God. (Philippians 4:4-8)

What does a world desperate for JOY experience when they are around YOU? Are they seeing the JOY of the Lord in your life?
]]>
Luke 2:8-15 NIV

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

"The Good News of Jesus is that we can live a JOYFUL LIFE in a JOYLESS WORLD."

What is JOY? "An emotion of glad or cheerful contentment"

James 1:2-3 NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.

The Joy of the Lord is a GIFT from God. (John 15)

The Joy of the Lord is a FRUIT of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22)

The Joy of the Lord is a RESPONSE to God. (Philippians 4:4-8)

What does a world desperate for JOY experience when they are around YOU? Are they seeing the JOY of the Lord in your life?
]]> false The Chosen, Holy Night, Part 2 full podcastepisode_9fcbd543109a4884b4087d05a39c4efa Sun, 8 Dec 2024 05:30:00 -0400
Jesus came for ALL the people!

Luke 2:8-15 NIV

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

Like the shepherds, we have experienced socially-dire situations!

Like the shepherds, we have experienced spiritually-dire situations!

Jesus came to bring the shepherds, and everyone, peace!

John 9:1-3 NIV

As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth.His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.

1 Timothy 1:15 NIV

Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
Jesus has come for ALL people...

He has come to bring us peace within by making peace between...
between us and ourselves!
between us and God!
]]>
Jesus came for ALL the people!

Luke 2:8-15 NIV

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

Like the shepherds, we have experienced socially-dire situations!

Like the shepherds, we have experienced spiritually-dire situations!

Jesus came to bring the shepherds, and everyone, peace!

John 9:1-3 NIV

As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth.His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.

1 Timothy 1:15 NIV

Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
Jesus has come for ALL people...

He has come to bring us peace within by making peace between...
between us and ourselves!
between us and God!
]]>
Jesus came for ALL the people!

Luke 2:8-15 NIV

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

Like the shepherds, we have experienced socially-dire situations!

Like the shepherds, we have experienced spiritually-dire situations!

Jesus came to bring the shepherds, and everyone, peace!

John 9:1-3 NIV

As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth.His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.

1 Timothy 1:15 NIV

Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
Jesus has come for ALL people...

He has come to bring us peace within by making peace between...
between us and ourselves!
between us and God!
]]> false The Chosen, Holy Night, Part 1 full podcastepisode_0e9880ff112547428ec41d6636953387 Sun, 1 Dec 2024 05:30:00 -0400
Isaiah 7:14 NASB1995

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel.

Isaiah 9:6 NASB1995

For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Micah 5:2-4 NASB1995

But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Too little to be among the clans of Judah, From you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, From the days of eternity.”Therefore He will give them up until the time When she who is in labor has borne a child. Then the remainder of His brethren Will return to the sons of Israel.And He will arise and shepherd His flock In the strength of the LORD, In the majesty of the name of the LORD His God. And they will remain, Because at that time He will be great To the ends of the earth.

Luke 1:26-37 NASB1995

Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazarethto a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.”But she was very perplexed at this statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this was.The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father Davidand He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.”Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?”The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God.And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month.For nothing will be impossible with God.”

Matthew 1:18-24 NASB1995

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit.And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned to send her away secretly.But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet“BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL,” which translated means, “GOD WITH US.”And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took Mary as his wife

Nothing is Impossible with God!

Make a list of all the "impossible" things God has made reality.

Acts 1:11 NASB1995

They also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.”

John 14:1-3 NASB1995

“Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.

Romans 8:22-25 NASB1995

For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now.And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees?But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.

Revelation 21:1-4 NASB1995

Revelation 21:16 NASB1995

The city is laid out as a square, and its length is as great as the width; and he measured the city with the rod, fifteen hundred miles; its length and width and height are equal.
]]>
Isaiah 7:14 NASB1995

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel.

Isaiah 9:6 NASB1995

For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Micah 5:2-4 NASB1995

But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Too little to be among the clans of Judah, From you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, From the days of eternity.”Therefore He will give them up until the time When she who is in labor has borne a child. Then the remainder of His brethren Will return to the sons of Israel.And He will arise and shepherd His flock In the strength of the LORD, In the majesty of the name of the LORD His God. And they will remain, Because at that time He will be great To the ends of the earth.

Luke 1:26-37 NASB1995

Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazarethto a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.”But she was very perplexed at this statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this was.The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father Davidand He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.”Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?”The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God.And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month.For nothing will be impossible with God.”

Matthew 1:18-24 NASB1995

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit.And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned to send her away secretly.But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet“BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL,” which translated means, “GOD WITH US.”And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took Mary as his wife

Nothing is Impossible with God!

Make a list of all the "impossible" things God has made reality.

Acts 1:11 NASB1995

They also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.”

John 14:1-3 NASB1995

“Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.

Romans 8:22-25 NASB1995

For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now.And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees?But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.

Revelation 21:1-4 NASB1995

Revelation 21:16 NASB1995

The city is laid out as a square, and its length is as great as the width; and he measured the city with the rod, fifteen hundred miles; its length and width and height are equal.
]]>
Isaiah 7:14 NASB1995

Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel.

Isaiah 9:6 NASB1995

For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Micah 5:2-4 NASB1995

But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Too little to be among the clans of Judah, From you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, From the days of eternity.”Therefore He will give them up until the time When she who is in labor has borne a child. Then the remainder of His brethren Will return to the sons of Israel.And He will arise and shepherd His flock In the strength of the LORD, In the majesty of the name of the LORD His God. And they will remain, Because at that time He will be great To the ends of the earth.

Luke 1:26-37 NASB1995

Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazarethto a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.”But she was very perplexed at this statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this was.The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father Davidand He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.”Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?”The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God.And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month.For nothing will be impossible with God.”

Matthew 1:18-24 NASB1995

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: when His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit.And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned to send her away secretly.But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet“BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL,” which translated means, “GOD WITH US.”And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took Mary as his wife

Nothing is Impossible with God!

Make a list of all the "impossible" things God has made reality.

Acts 1:11 NASB1995

They also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.”

John 14:1-3 NASB1995

“Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.

Romans 8:22-25 NASB1995

For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now.And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body.For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees?But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it.

Revelation 21:1-4 NASB1995

Revelation 21:16 NASB1995

The city is laid out as a square, and its length is as great as the width; and he measured the city with the rod, fifteen hundred miles; its length and width and height are equal.
]]> false Resolving Conflict, Part 4 full podcastepisode_8635d489b6624fb8ba1b814c67d0927c Sun, 24 Nov 2024 05:30:00 -0400
John 14:1 NIV

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.

Followers of Christ resolve the internal conflict of FEAR by trusting God.

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Followers of Christ resolve the internal conflict of SORROW by trusting God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfortwho comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

What are you THANKFUL for?
]]>
John 14:1 NIV

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.

Followers of Christ resolve the internal conflict of FEAR by trusting God.

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Followers of Christ resolve the internal conflict of SORROW by trusting God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfortwho comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

What are you THANKFUL for?
]]>
John 14:1 NIV

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me.

Followers of Christ resolve the internal conflict of FEAR by trusting God.

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Followers of Christ resolve the internal conflict of SORROW by trusting God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfortwho comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

What are you THANKFUL for?
]]> false Resolving Conflict, Part 3 full podcastepisode_bcbd24ee77a74e2091994b142cd022c4 Sun, 17 Nov 2024 05:30:00 -0400
Matthew 18:21-22 NIV

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.

Followers of Christ Resolve Conflict with FORGIVENESS.

Matthew 18:23-27 NIV

“Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him.Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.“At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.

Matthew 18:28-35 NIV

“But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.“His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’“But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt.When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.“Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to.Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”

Who or what do you need to FORGIVE? Ask God for His help.
]]>
Matthew 18:21-22 NIV

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.

Followers of Christ Resolve Conflict with FORGIVENESS.

Matthew 18:23-27 NIV

“Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him.Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.“At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.

Matthew 18:28-35 NIV

“But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.“His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’“But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt.When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.“Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to.Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”

Who or what do you need to FORGIVE? Ask God for His help.
]]>
Matthew 18:21-22 NIV

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.

Followers of Christ Resolve Conflict with FORGIVENESS.

Matthew 18:23-27 NIV

“Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him.Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.“At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.

Matthew 18:28-35 NIV

“But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.“His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’“But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt.When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.“Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to.Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”

Who or what do you need to FORGIVE? Ask God for His help.
]]> false Resolving Conflict, Part 2 full podcastepisode_717cb20d0490484ab1043fc22761cee1 Sun, 10 Nov 2024 05:30:00 -0400 Part 2 - James 4

Followers of Christ Resolve Conflict with Honesty & Humility:

1. Honestly Admit that Conflict Begins with Me!

2. Honestly Admit that I'm a Cheater!

3. Humbly Invite God into My Conflict!

4. Humbly Deal with my Own Sin 1st & Fully!

5. Humbly Elevate Relationship Above Conflict!

James 4:1-12 NIV

What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so 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.You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.Or do you think Scripture says without reason that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us?But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?

1 John 2:15-17 NIV

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.

Luke 6:27-29 NIV

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate youbless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them.

Ephesians 4:26-32 NIV

“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angryand do not give the devil a foothold.Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Followers of Christ Resolve Conflict with Honesty & Humility!
]]> Part 2 - James 4

Followers of Christ Resolve Conflict with Honesty & Humility:

1. Honestly Admit that Conflict Begins with Me!

2. Honestly Admit that I'm a Cheater!

3. Humbly Invite God into My Conflict!

4. Humbly Deal with my Own Sin 1st & Fully!

5. Humbly Elevate Relationship Above Conflict!

James 4:1-12 NIV

What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so 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.You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.Or do you think Scripture says without reason that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us?But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?

1 John 2:15-17 NIV

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.

Luke 6:27-29 NIV

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate youbless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them.

Ephesians 4:26-32 NIV

“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angryand do not give the devil a foothold.Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Followers of Christ Resolve Conflict with Honesty & Humility!
]]> Part 2 - James 4

Followers of Christ Resolve Conflict with Honesty & Humility:

1. Honestly Admit that Conflict Begins with Me!

2. Honestly Admit that I'm a Cheater!

3. Humbly Invite God into My Conflict!

4. Humbly Deal with my Own Sin 1st & Fully!

5. Humbly Elevate Relationship Above Conflict!

James 4:1-12 NIV

What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so 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.You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.Or do you think Scripture says without reason that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us?But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?

1 John 2:15-17 NIV

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them.For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.

Luke 6:27-29 NIV

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate youbless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them.

Ephesians 4:26-32 NIV

“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angryand do not give the devil a foothold.Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Followers of Christ Resolve Conflict with Honesty & Humility!
]]> false Resolving Conflict, Part 1 full podcastepisode_eddb59176193483bb73b5edf610842d8 Sun, 3 Nov 2024 05:30:00 -0400
Romans 12:2 NIV

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.

Romans 12:14-21 NIV

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Followers of Christ resolve conflict by RESPONDING like Christ, instead of REACTING like the world.

1. Don’t REACT by stirring the pot, instead RESPOND by making room for peace.

2. Don’t REACT to cruelty with cruelty, instead RESPOND to cruelty with unexpected kindness.

3. Don’t REACT to evil with more evil, instead RESOND to evil with more good.

Romans 12:18 NIV

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Luke 6:27-29 NIV

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate youbless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them.

Romans 12:17-20 NIV

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

Romans 12:21 NIV

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
]]>
Romans 12:2 NIV

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.

Romans 12:14-21 NIV

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Followers of Christ resolve conflict by RESPONDING like Christ, instead of REACTING like the world.

1. Don’t REACT by stirring the pot, instead RESPOND by making room for peace.

2. Don’t REACT to cruelty with cruelty, instead RESPOND to cruelty with unexpected kindness.

3. Don’t REACT to evil with more evil, instead RESOND to evil with more good.

Romans 12:18 NIV

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Luke 6:27-29 NIV

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate youbless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them.

Romans 12:17-20 NIV

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

Romans 12:21 NIV

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
]]>
Romans 12:2 NIV

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.

Romans 12:14-21 NIV

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Followers of Christ resolve conflict by RESPONDING like Christ, instead of REACTING like the world.

1. Don’t REACT by stirring the pot, instead RESPOND by making room for peace.

2. Don’t REACT to cruelty with cruelty, instead RESPOND to cruelty with unexpected kindness.

3. Don’t REACT to evil with more evil, instead RESOND to evil with more good.

Romans 12:18 NIV

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Luke 6:27-29 NIV

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate youbless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them.

Romans 12:17-20 NIV

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

Romans 12:21 NIV

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 36 full podcastepisode_cc17e4b3cf75420ba8bfc373da908087 Sun, 27 Oct 2024 06:30:00 -0400
15Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another of the disciples. That other disciple was acquainted with the high priest, so he was allowed to enter the high priest’s courtyard with Jesus. 16Peter had to stay outside the gate. Then the disciple who knew the high priest spoke to the woman watching at the gate, and she let Peter in. 17The woman asked Peter, “You’re not one of that man’s disciples, are you?”
“No,” he said, “I am not.”
18Because it was cold, the household servants and the guards had made a charcoal fire. They stood around it, warming themselves, and Peter stood with them, warming himself.

John 18:25-27

25Meanwhile, as Simon Peter was standing by the fire warming himself, they asked him again, “You’re not one of his disciples, are you?”
He denied it, saying, “No, I am not.”
26But one of the household slaves of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Didn’t I see you out there in the olive grove with Jesus?” 27Again Peter denied it. And immediately a rooster crowed.

When your identity is IN CHRIST it is no longer defined by your FAILURE

Am I ever going to be anything more than my failure?

John 21:15-19

15After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”
“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.
16Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.”
“Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said.
17A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.
18 “I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.” 19Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.”

"Follow me. Let your failure in the past and let's move forward in LOVE."
]]>
15Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another of the disciples. That other disciple was acquainted with the high priest, so he was allowed to enter the high priest’s courtyard with Jesus. 16Peter had to stay outside the gate. Then the disciple who knew the high priest spoke to the woman watching at the gate, and she let Peter in. 17The woman asked Peter, “You’re not one of that man’s disciples, are you?”
“No,” he said, “I am not.”
18Because it was cold, the household servants and the guards had made a charcoal fire. They stood around it, warming themselves, and Peter stood with them, warming himself.

John 18:25-27

25Meanwhile, as Simon Peter was standing by the fire warming himself, they asked him again, “You’re not one of his disciples, are you?”
He denied it, saying, “No, I am not.”
26But one of the household slaves of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Didn’t I see you out there in the olive grove with Jesus?” 27Again Peter denied it. And immediately a rooster crowed.

When your identity is IN CHRIST it is no longer defined by your FAILURE

Am I ever going to be anything more than my failure?

John 21:15-19

15After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”
“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.
16Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.”
“Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said.
17A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.
18 “I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.” 19Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.”

"Follow me. Let your failure in the past and let's move forward in LOVE."
]]>
15Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another of the disciples. That other disciple was acquainted with the high priest, so he was allowed to enter the high priest’s courtyard with Jesus. 16Peter had to stay outside the gate. Then the disciple who knew the high priest spoke to the woman watching at the gate, and she let Peter in. 17The woman asked Peter, “You’re not one of that man’s disciples, are you?”
“No,” he said, “I am not.”
18Because it was cold, the household servants and the guards had made a charcoal fire. They stood around it, warming themselves, and Peter stood with them, warming himself.

John 18:25-27

25Meanwhile, as Simon Peter was standing by the fire warming himself, they asked him again, “You’re not one of his disciples, are you?”
He denied it, saying, “No, I am not.”
26But one of the household slaves of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Didn’t I see you out there in the olive grove with Jesus?” 27Again Peter denied it. And immediately a rooster crowed.

When your identity is IN CHRIST it is no longer defined by your FAILURE

Am I ever going to be anything more than my failure?

John 21:15-19

15After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter replied, “you know I love you.”
“Then feed my lambs,” Jesus told him.
16Jesus repeated the question: “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
“Yes, Lord,” Peter said, “you know I love you.”
“Then take care of my sheep,” Jesus said.
17A third time he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”
Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.”
Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.
18 “I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don’t want to go.” 19Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, “Follow me.”

"Follow me. Let your failure in the past and let's move forward in LOVE."
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 35 full podcastepisode_6ad224e9317441e9a89ad379215899bc Sun, 20 Oct 2024 06:30:00 -0400
19 That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! “Peace be with you,” he said. 20As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord! 21Again he said, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” 22Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23If you forgive anyone’s sins, they are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”
Jesus Appears to Thomas
24One of the twelve disciples, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. 25They told him, “We have seen the Lord!”
But he replied, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.”
26Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked; but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. 27Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!”
28“My Lord and my God!” Thomas exclaimed.
29Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.”
]]>
19 That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! “Peace be with you,” he said. 20As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord! 21Again he said, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” 22Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23If you forgive anyone’s sins, they are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”
Jesus Appears to Thomas
24One of the twelve disciples, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. 25They told him, “We have seen the Lord!”
But he replied, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.”
26Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked; but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. 27Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!”
28“My Lord and my God!” Thomas exclaimed.
29Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.”
]]>
19 That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! “Peace be with you,” he said. 20As he spoke, he showed them the wounds in his hands and his side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord! 21Again he said, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I am sending you.” 22Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23If you forgive anyone’s sins, they are forgiven. If you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.”
Jesus Appears to Thomas
24One of the twelve disciples, Thomas (nicknamed the Twin), was not with the others when Jesus came. 25They told him, “We have seen the Lord!”
But he replied, “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.”
26Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked; but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. “Peace be with you,” he said. 27Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and look at my hands. Put your hand into the wound in my side. Don’t be faithless any longer. Believe!”
28“My Lord and my God!” Thomas exclaimed.
29Then Jesus told him, “You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me.”
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 34 full podcastepisode_dcd1992976044a75b7a670a48740d4d0 Sun, 13 Oct 2024 06:30:00 -0400
John 14:13-14 NLT

You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!

John 15:7 NLT

But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!

John 16:23-26 NLT

At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name.You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.“I have spoken of these matters in figures of speech, but soon I will stop speaking figuratively and will tell you plainly all about the Father.Then you will ask in my name. I’m not saying I will ask the Father on your behalf

1 John 5:14-15 NLT

And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him.And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for.

Philippians 4:6 NLT

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.

John 17:1-5 NLT

After saying all these things, Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you.For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives eternal life to each one you have given him.And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth.I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began.

John 17:9 NLT

“My prayer is not for the world, but for those you have given me, because they belong to you.

John 17:24 NLT

Father, I want these whom you have given me to be with me where I am. Then they can see all the glory you gave me because you loved me even before the world began!

John 17:11-19 NLT

Now I am departing from the world; they are staying in this world, but I am coming to you. Holy Father, you have given me your name; now protect them by the power of your name so that they will be united just as we are.During my time here, I protected them by the power of the name you gave me. I guarded them so that not one was lost, except the one headed for destruction, as the Scriptures foretold.“Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy.I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world.I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one.They do not belong to this world any more than I do.Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.

John 17:13 NLT

“Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy.

John 17:17-19 NLT

Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.

John 17:21-23 NLT

I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.“I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one.I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.

John 17:25-26 NLT

“O righteous Father, the world doesn’t know you, but I do; and these disciples know you sent me.I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be in them.”

How would your life be different if you prayed like Jesus?


1. Jesus prayed for God the Father to be GLORIFIED.
Verses 1-5, 9, 24

2. Jesus prayed for their PROTECTION.
Verses 11-19

3. Jesus prayed for a full measure of His JOY to fill their lives.
Verse 13

4. Jesus prayed for their SANCTIFICATION.
Verses 17-19

5. Jesus prayed for UNITY.
Verses 21-23

6. Jesus prayed for believers to experience a genuine, intimate relationship of LOVE with Him and the Father.
Verses 25-26
]]>
John 14:13-14 NLT

You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!

John 15:7 NLT

But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!

John 16:23-26 NLT

At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name.You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.“I have spoken of these matters in figures of speech, but soon I will stop speaking figuratively and will tell you plainly all about the Father.Then you will ask in my name. I’m not saying I will ask the Father on your behalf

1 John 5:14-15 NLT

And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him.And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for.

Philippians 4:6 NLT

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.

John 17:1-5 NLT

After saying all these things, Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you.For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives eternal life to each one you have given him.And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth.I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began.

John 17:9 NLT

“My prayer is not for the world, but for those you have given me, because they belong to you.

John 17:24 NLT

Father, I want these whom you have given me to be with me where I am. Then they can see all the glory you gave me because you loved me even before the world began!

John 17:11-19 NLT

Now I am departing from the world; they are staying in this world, but I am coming to you. Holy Father, you have given me your name; now protect them by the power of your name so that they will be united just as we are.During my time here, I protected them by the power of the name you gave me. I guarded them so that not one was lost, except the one headed for destruction, as the Scriptures foretold.“Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy.I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world.I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one.They do not belong to this world any more than I do.Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.

John 17:13 NLT

“Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy.

John 17:17-19 NLT

Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.

John 17:21-23 NLT

I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.“I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one.I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.

John 17:25-26 NLT

“O righteous Father, the world doesn’t know you, but I do; and these disciples know you sent me.I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be in them.”

How would your life be different if you prayed like Jesus?


1. Jesus prayed for God the Father to be GLORIFIED.
Verses 1-5, 9, 24

2. Jesus prayed for their PROTECTION.
Verses 11-19

3. Jesus prayed for a full measure of His JOY to fill their lives.
Verse 13

4. Jesus prayed for their SANCTIFICATION.
Verses 17-19

5. Jesus prayed for UNITY.
Verses 21-23

6. Jesus prayed for believers to experience a genuine, intimate relationship of LOVE with Him and the Father.
Verses 25-26
]]>
John 14:13-14 NLT

You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!

John 15:7 NLT

But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!

John 16:23-26 NLT

At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name.You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.“I have spoken of these matters in figures of speech, but soon I will stop speaking figuratively and will tell you plainly all about the Father.Then you will ask in my name. I’m not saying I will ask the Father on your behalf

1 John 5:14-15 NLT

And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him.And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for.

Philippians 4:6 NLT

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.

John 17:1-5 NLT

After saying all these things, Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you.For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives eternal life to each one you have given him.And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth.I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began.

John 17:9 NLT

“My prayer is not for the world, but for those you have given me, because they belong to you.

John 17:24 NLT

Father, I want these whom you have given me to be with me where I am. Then they can see all the glory you gave me because you loved me even before the world began!

John 17:11-19 NLT

Now I am departing from the world; they are staying in this world, but I am coming to you. Holy Father, you have given me your name; now protect them by the power of your name so that they will be united just as we are.During my time here, I protected them by the power of the name you gave me. I guarded them so that not one was lost, except the one headed for destruction, as the Scriptures foretold.“Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy.I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world.I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one.They do not belong to this world any more than I do.Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.

John 17:13 NLT

“Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy.

John 17:17-19 NLT

Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.

John 17:21-23 NLT

I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.“I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one.I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.

John 17:25-26 NLT

“O righteous Father, the world doesn’t know you, but I do; and these disciples know you sent me.I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be in them.”

How would your life be different if you prayed like Jesus?


1. Jesus prayed for God the Father to be GLORIFIED.
Verses 1-5, 9, 24

2. Jesus prayed for their PROTECTION.
Verses 11-19

3. Jesus prayed for a full measure of His JOY to fill their lives.
Verse 13

4. Jesus prayed for their SANCTIFICATION.
Verses 17-19

5. Jesus prayed for UNITY.
Verses 21-23

6. Jesus prayed for believers to experience a genuine, intimate relationship of LOVE with Him and the Father.
Verses 25-26
]]> false Who is Jesus, The Gospel of John, Part 33 full podcastepisode_8ff39218be6c42dab33d075d217138ba Sun, 6 Oct 2024 06:30:00 -0400
John 15:1-9 NLT

“I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener.He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you.Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned.But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.“I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love.

John 15:10-11 NLT

When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!

Are you a healthy branch or a barren branch?

A healthy branch bears fruit (A barren branch is deadwood)

A healthy branch is pruned by the Vinedresser (A barren branch is cut out)

A healthy branch remains connected to the Vine (A barren branch is disconnected from the Vine)
]]>
John 15:1-9 NLT

“I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener.He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you.Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned.But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.“I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love.

John 15:10-11 NLT

When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!

Are you a healthy branch or a barren branch?

A healthy branch bears fruit (A barren branch is deadwood)

A healthy branch is pruned by the Vinedresser (A barren branch is cut out)

A healthy branch remains connected to the Vine (A barren branch is disconnected from the Vine)
]]>
John 15:1-9 NLT

“I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener.He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you.Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned.But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.“I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love.

John 15:10-11 NLT

When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!

Are you a healthy branch or a barren branch?

A healthy branch bears fruit (A barren branch is deadwood)

A healthy branch is pruned by the Vinedresser (A barren branch is cut out)

A healthy branch remains connected to the Vine (A barren branch is disconnected from the Vine)
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 32 full podcastepisode_56a0102382fe4ea4933e0d060c693e13 Sun, 29 Sep 2024 06:30:00 -0400
John 14:15 NLT

“If you love me, obey my commandments.

John 14:21 NLT

Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.”

John 14:23-24 NLT

Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.Anyone who doesn’t love me will not obey me. And remember, my words are not my own. What I am telling you is from the Father who sent me.

The Holy Spirit - Counselor & Spirit of Truth
(John 14:16-17, 26; 15:26; 16:8-13)

If the Holy Spirit is ALWAYS with us - that means we are NEVER ALONE.

If the Holy Spirit is our GUIDE for TRUTH - that means we can always discover TRUTH.

If the Holy Spirit CONVICTS the hearts of unbelievers - that means I don't have to sell a product, I just have to SHARE a STORY.
]]>
John 14:15 NLT

“If you love me, obey my commandments.

John 14:21 NLT

Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.”

John 14:23-24 NLT

Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.Anyone who doesn’t love me will not obey me. And remember, my words are not my own. What I am telling you is from the Father who sent me.

The Holy Spirit - Counselor & Spirit of Truth
(John 14:16-17, 26; 15:26; 16:8-13)

If the Holy Spirit is ALWAYS with us - that means we are NEVER ALONE.

If the Holy Spirit is our GUIDE for TRUTH - that means we can always discover TRUTH.

If the Holy Spirit CONVICTS the hearts of unbelievers - that means I don't have to sell a product, I just have to SHARE a STORY.
]]>
John 14:15 NLT

“If you love me, obey my commandments.

John 14:21 NLT

Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.”

John 14:23-24 NLT

Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.Anyone who doesn’t love me will not obey me. And remember, my words are not my own. What I am telling you is from the Father who sent me.

The Holy Spirit - Counselor & Spirit of Truth
(John 14:16-17, 26; 15:26; 16:8-13)

If the Holy Spirit is ALWAYS with us - that means we are NEVER ALONE.

If the Holy Spirit is our GUIDE for TRUTH - that means we can always discover TRUTH.

If the Holy Spirit CONVICTS the hearts of unbelievers - that means I don't have to sell a product, I just have to SHARE a STORY.
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 31 full podcastepisode_20099a23ad7945f89a4226c17f21faab Sun, 15 Sep 2024 06:30:00 -0400 Matthew 7:13
Romans 6:23

Verses on Hell:
2 Thessalonians 1:8
Revelations 20:11, 21:27

Presence of God:
Philippians 1:23

Promise of Perfection:
Revelation 21:1-4
1 Corinthians 15:35-37
! Thessalonians 4:13-19
Luke 16:19-31

1. Are you ready for heaven? - Do you know for sure your soul is right with God?

2. Is the this you are looking forward to the most about heaven meeting Jesus?
]]> Matthew 7:13
Romans 6:23

Verses on Hell:
2 Thessalonians 1:8
Revelations 20:11, 21:27

Presence of God:
Philippians 1:23

Promise of Perfection:
Revelation 21:1-4
1 Corinthians 15:35-37
! Thessalonians 4:13-19
Luke 16:19-31

1. Are you ready for heaven? - Do you know for sure your soul is right with God?

2. Is the this you are looking forward to the most about heaven meeting Jesus?
]]> Matthew 7:13
Romans 6:23

Verses on Hell:
2 Thessalonians 1:8
Revelations 20:11, 21:27

Presence of God:
Philippians 1:23

Promise of Perfection:
Revelation 21:1-4
1 Corinthians 15:35-37
! Thessalonians 4:13-19
Luke 16:19-31

1. Are you ready for heaven? - Do you know for sure your soul is right with God?

2. Is the this you are looking forward to the most about heaven meeting Jesus?
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 30 full podcastepisode_0267d3acd5ef484d82457722c6fef666 Sun, 8 Sep 2024 06:30:00 -0400
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.And you know the way to where I am going.”“No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.

Isaiah 43:1-3 NLT

But now, O Jacob, listen to the LORD who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I gave Egypt as a ransom for your freedom; I gave Ethiopia and Seba in your place.

Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT

So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

Hebrews 12:10-11 NLT

For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness.No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.

James 1:2-4 NLT

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

Galatians 3:13-14 NLT

But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith.

Romans 5:8 NLT

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.

We can trust God to unburden our troubled hearts!
]]>
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.And you know the way to where I am going.”“No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.

Isaiah 43:1-3 NLT

But now, O Jacob, listen to the LORD who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I gave Egypt as a ransom for your freedom; I gave Ethiopia and Seba in your place.

Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT

So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

Hebrews 12:10-11 NLT

For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness.No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.

James 1:2-4 NLT

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

Galatians 3:13-14 NLT

But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith.

Romans 5:8 NLT

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.

We can trust God to unburden our troubled hearts!
]]>
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you?When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.And you know the way to where I am going.”“No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.

Isaiah 43:1-3 NLT

But now, O Jacob, listen to the LORD who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I gave Egypt as a ransom for your freedom; I gave Ethiopia and Seba in your place.

Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT

So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

Hebrews 12:10-11 NLT

For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness.No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.

James 1:2-4 NLT

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

Galatians 3:13-14 NLT

But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.”Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith.

Romans 5:8 NLT

But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.

We can trust God to unburden our troubled hearts!
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 28 full podcastepisode_0939e1b0cdf04b728bef27e734e4a9d4 Sun, 18 Aug 2024 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Who is Jesus, The Gospel of John, Part 29 full podcastepisode_92247758b98d4f8494dd743e1399cfc6 Mon, 26 Aug 2024 06:30:00 -0400
John 13:1-9 NLT

Before the Passover celebration, Jesus knew that his hour had come to leave this world and return to his Father. He had loved his disciples during his ministry on earth, and now he loved them to the very end.It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God.So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waistand poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.When Jesus came to Simon Peter, Peter said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”Jesus replied, “You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.”“No,” Peter protested, “you will never ever wash my feet!” Jesus replied, “Unless I wash you, you won’t belong to me.”Simon Peter exclaimed, “Then wash my hands and head as well, Lord, not just my feet!”

John 13:10-13 NLT

Jesus replied, “A person who has bathed all over does not need to wash, except for the feet, to be entirely clean. And you disciples are clean, but not all of you.”For Jesus knew who would betray him. That is what he meant when he said, “Not all of you are clean.”After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing?You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am.

1 John 1:8-10 NLT

If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our hearts.

1 John 2:1-2 NLT

My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous.He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins—and not only our sins but the sins of all the world.

If Jesus can wash feet, why can't I?
]]>
John 13:1-9 NLT

Before the Passover celebration, Jesus knew that his hour had come to leave this world and return to his Father. He had loved his disciples during his ministry on earth, and now he loved them to the very end.It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God.So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waistand poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.When Jesus came to Simon Peter, Peter said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”Jesus replied, “You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.”“No,” Peter protested, “you will never ever wash my feet!” Jesus replied, “Unless I wash you, you won’t belong to me.”Simon Peter exclaimed, “Then wash my hands and head as well, Lord, not just my feet!”

John 13:10-13 NLT

Jesus replied, “A person who has bathed all over does not need to wash, except for the feet, to be entirely clean. And you disciples are clean, but not all of you.”For Jesus knew who would betray him. That is what he meant when he said, “Not all of you are clean.”After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing?You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am.

1 John 1:8-10 NLT

If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our hearts.

1 John 2:1-2 NLT

My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous.He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins—and not only our sins but the sins of all the world.

If Jesus can wash feet, why can't I?
]]>
John 13:1-9 NLT

Before the Passover celebration, Jesus knew that his hour had come to leave this world and return to his Father. He had loved his disciples during his ministry on earth, and now he loved them to the very end.It was time for supper, and the devil had already prompted Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God.So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waistand poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.When Jesus came to Simon Peter, Peter said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”Jesus replied, “You don’t understand now what I am doing, but someday you will.”“No,” Peter protested, “you will never ever wash my feet!” Jesus replied, “Unless I wash you, you won’t belong to me.”Simon Peter exclaimed, “Then wash my hands and head as well, Lord, not just my feet!”

John 13:10-13 NLT

Jesus replied, “A person who has bathed all over does not need to wash, except for the feet, to be entirely clean. And you disciples are clean, but not all of you.”For Jesus knew who would betray him. That is what he meant when he said, “Not all of you are clean.”After washing their feet, he put on his robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing?You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am.

1 John 1:8-10 NLT

If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.If we claim we have not sinned, we are calling God a liar and showing that his word has no place in our hearts.

1 John 2:1-2 NLT

My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous.He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins—and not only our sins but the sins of all the world.

If Jesus can wash feet, why can't I?
]]> false Who is Jesus, The Gospel of John, Part 27 full podcastepisode_88d362df610d44019499b92dd3dfc8c4 Sun, 11 Aug 2024 06:30:00 -0400
But despite all the miraculous signs Jesus had done, most of the people still did not believe in him.This is exactly what Isaiah the prophet had predicted: “LORD, who has believed our message? To whom has the LORD revealed his powerful arm?”But the people couldn’t believe, for as Isaiah also said“The Lord has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts— so that their eyes cannot see, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and have me heal them.”Isaiah was referring to Jesus when he said this, because he saw the future and spoke of the Messiah’s glory.Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue.For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you trust me, you are trusting not only me, but also God who sent me.For when you see me, you are seeing the one who sent me.

John 12:46-50 NLT

I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark.I will not judge those who hear me but don’t obey me, for I have come to save the world and not to judge it.But all who reject me and my message will be judged on the day of judgment by the truth I have spoken.I don’t speak on my own authority. The Father who sent me has commanded me what to say and how to say it.And I know his commands lead to eternal life; so I say whatever the Father tells me to say.”

1. What is a HARD HEART?

2. What causes a HARD HEART?

3. How do we recover from a HARD HEART?

Romans 1:18-27 NLT

But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness.They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them.For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused.Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools.And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies.They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen.That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other.And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.

Romans 1:28-32 NLT

Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done.Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip.They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They invent new ways of sinning, and they disobey their parents.They refuse to understand, break their promises, are heartless, and have no mercy.They know God’s justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do them anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too.

1 Timothy 4:1-2 NIV

The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.

1 Peter 5:8 NIV

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

1 Peter 5:8 NIV

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

Other related passages:

James 1:12-15
Proverbs 8:13
Proverbs 16:18
John 1:2-4
Psalms 139:23-24
1 John 1:9
Ezekiel 11:19-20
Psalm 119:9-11
2 Timothy 3:16-17
Hebrews 4:12
]]>
But despite all the miraculous signs Jesus had done, most of the people still did not believe in him.This is exactly what Isaiah the prophet had predicted: “LORD, who has believed our message? To whom has the LORD revealed his powerful arm?”But the people couldn’t believe, for as Isaiah also said“The Lord has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts— so that their eyes cannot see, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and have me heal them.”Isaiah was referring to Jesus when he said this, because he saw the future and spoke of the Messiah’s glory.Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue.For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you trust me, you are trusting not only me, but also God who sent me.For when you see me, you are seeing the one who sent me.

John 12:46-50 NLT

I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark.I will not judge those who hear me but don’t obey me, for I have come to save the world and not to judge it.But all who reject me and my message will be judged on the day of judgment by the truth I have spoken.I don’t speak on my own authority. The Father who sent me has commanded me what to say and how to say it.And I know his commands lead to eternal life; so I say whatever the Father tells me to say.”

1. What is a HARD HEART?

2. What causes a HARD HEART?

3. How do we recover from a HARD HEART?

Romans 1:18-27 NLT

But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness.They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them.For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused.Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools.And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies.They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen.That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other.And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.

Romans 1:28-32 NLT

Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done.Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip.They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They invent new ways of sinning, and they disobey their parents.They refuse to understand, break their promises, are heartless, and have no mercy.They know God’s justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do them anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too.

1 Timothy 4:1-2 NIV

The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.

1 Peter 5:8 NIV

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

1 Peter 5:8 NIV

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

Other related passages:

James 1:12-15
Proverbs 8:13
Proverbs 16:18
John 1:2-4
Psalms 139:23-24
1 John 1:9
Ezekiel 11:19-20
Psalm 119:9-11
2 Timothy 3:16-17
Hebrews 4:12
]]>
But despite all the miraculous signs Jesus had done, most of the people still did not believe in him.This is exactly what Isaiah the prophet had predicted: “LORD, who has believed our message? To whom has the LORD revealed his powerful arm?”But the people couldn’t believe, for as Isaiah also said“The Lord has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts— so that their eyes cannot see, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and have me heal them.”Isaiah was referring to Jesus when he said this, because he saw the future and spoke of the Messiah’s glory.Many people did believe in him, however, including some of the Jewish leaders. But they wouldn’t admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue.For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you trust me, you are trusting not only me, but also God who sent me.For when you see me, you are seeing the one who sent me.

John 12:46-50 NLT

I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark.I will not judge those who hear me but don’t obey me, for I have come to save the world and not to judge it.But all who reject me and my message will be judged on the day of judgment by the truth I have spoken.I don’t speak on my own authority. The Father who sent me has commanded me what to say and how to say it.And I know his commands lead to eternal life; so I say whatever the Father tells me to say.”

1. What is a HARD HEART?

2. What causes a HARD HEART?

3. How do we recover from a HARD HEART?

Romans 1:18-27 NLT

But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness.They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them.For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused.Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools.And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies.They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen.That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other.And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved.

Romans 1:28-32 NLT

Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done.Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip.They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They invent new ways of sinning, and they disobey their parents.They refuse to understand, break their promises, are heartless, and have no mercy.They know God’s justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do them anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too.

1 Timothy 4:1-2 NIV

The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.

1 Peter 5:8 NIV

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

1 Peter 5:8 NIV

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.

Other related passages:

James 1:12-15
Proverbs 8:13
Proverbs 16:18
John 1:2-4
Psalms 139:23-24
1 John 1:9
Ezekiel 11:19-20
Psalm 119:9-11
2 Timothy 3:16-17
Hebrews 4:12
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 26 full podcastepisode_caee76451a374444a9899963dc2a956a Sun, 4 Aug 2024 06:30:00 -0400
PRIORITIES are about putting FIRST THINGS FIRST

John 12:20-29 NLT

Some Greeks who had come to Jerusalem for the Passover celebrationpaid a visit to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee. They said, “Sir, we want to meet Jesus.”Philip told Andrew about it, and they went together to ask Jesus.Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory.I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives.Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity.Anyone who wants to serve me must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.“Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But this is the very reason I came!Father, bring glory to your name.” Then a voice spoke from heaven, saying, “I have already brought glory to my name, and I will do so again.”When the crowd heard the voice, some thought it was thunder, while others declared an angel had spoken to him.

John 12:30-36 NLT

Then Jesus told them, “The voice was for your benefit, not mine.The time for judging this world has come, when Satan, the ruler of this world, will be cast out.And when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.”He said this to indicate how he was going to die.The crowd responded, “We understood from Scripture that the Messiah would live forever. How can you say the Son of Man will die? Just who is this Son of Man, anyway?”Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going.Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light.” After saying these things, Jesus went away and was hidden from them.

THREE SIMPLE QUESTION to check our PRIORITIES

1. Does the BUCKET have ETERNAL VALUE?

2. Does the BUCKET advance the GOSPEL of Jesus Christ?

3. Does the BUCKET draw me into a closer relationship with Jesus?
]]>
PRIORITIES are about putting FIRST THINGS FIRST

John 12:20-29 NLT

Some Greeks who had come to Jerusalem for the Passover celebrationpaid a visit to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee. They said, “Sir, we want to meet Jesus.”Philip told Andrew about it, and they went together to ask Jesus.Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory.I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives.Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity.Anyone who wants to serve me must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.“Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But this is the very reason I came!Father, bring glory to your name.” Then a voice spoke from heaven, saying, “I have already brought glory to my name, and I will do so again.”When the crowd heard the voice, some thought it was thunder, while others declared an angel had spoken to him.

John 12:30-36 NLT

Then Jesus told them, “The voice was for your benefit, not mine.The time for judging this world has come, when Satan, the ruler of this world, will be cast out.And when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.”He said this to indicate how he was going to die.The crowd responded, “We understood from Scripture that the Messiah would live forever. How can you say the Son of Man will die? Just who is this Son of Man, anyway?”Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going.Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light.” After saying these things, Jesus went away and was hidden from them.

THREE SIMPLE QUESTION to check our PRIORITIES

1. Does the BUCKET have ETERNAL VALUE?

2. Does the BUCKET advance the GOSPEL of Jesus Christ?

3. Does the BUCKET draw me into a closer relationship with Jesus?
]]>
PRIORITIES are about putting FIRST THINGS FIRST

John 12:20-29 NLT

Some Greeks who had come to Jerusalem for the Passover celebrationpaid a visit to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee. They said, “Sir, we want to meet Jesus.”Philip told Andrew about it, and they went together to ask Jesus.Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory.I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives.Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity.Anyone who wants to serve me must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me.“Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But this is the very reason I came!Father, bring glory to your name.” Then a voice spoke from heaven, saying, “I have already brought glory to my name, and I will do so again.”When the crowd heard the voice, some thought it was thunder, while others declared an angel had spoken to him.

John 12:30-36 NLT

Then Jesus told them, “The voice was for your benefit, not mine.The time for judging this world has come, when Satan, the ruler of this world, will be cast out.And when I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.”He said this to indicate how he was going to die.The crowd responded, “We understood from Scripture that the Messiah would live forever. How can you say the Son of Man will die? Just who is this Son of Man, anyway?”Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going.Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light.” After saying these things, Jesus went away and was hidden from them.

THREE SIMPLE QUESTION to check our PRIORITIES

1. Does the BUCKET have ETERNAL VALUE?

2. Does the BUCKET advance the GOSPEL of Jesus Christ?

3. Does the BUCKET draw me into a closer relationship with Jesus?
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 24 full podcastepisode_2b9ce7ab9dfd4ffe87e125b7d480188c Sun, 21 Jul 2024 06:30:00 -0400
John 11:45-50 NLT

Many of the people who were with Mary believed in Jesus when they saw this happen.But some went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done.Then the leading priests and Pharisees called the high council together. “What are we going to do?” they asked each other. “This man certainly performs many miraculous signs.If we allow him to go on like this, soon everyone will believe in him. Then the Roman army will come and destroy both our Temple and our nation.”Caiaphas, who was high priest at that time, said, “You don’t know what you’re talking about!You don’t realize that it’s better for you that one man should die for the people than for the whole nation to be destroyed.”

John 11:51-57 NLT

He did not say this on his own; as high priest at that time he was led to prophesy that Jesus would die for the entire nation.And not only for that nation, but to bring together and unite all the children of God scattered around the world.So from that time on, the Jewish leaders began to plot Jesus’ death.As a result, Jesus stopped his public ministry among the people and left Jerusalem. He went to a place near the wilderness, to the village of Ephraim, and stayed there with his disciples.It was now almost time for the Jewish Passover celebration, and many people from all over the country arrived in Jerusalem several days early so they could go through the purification ceremony before Passover began.They kept looking for Jesus, but as they stood around in the Temple, they said to each other, “What do you think? He won’t come for Passover, will he?”Meanwhile, the leading priests and Pharisees had publicly ordered that anyone seeing Jesus must report it immediately so they could arrest him.

When you feel like your emotions are pushing you to a place where you are overreacting in ways that don’t reflect who you are in Christ, or you feel stuck in sorrow or thoughts of fear or shame = Remind yourself of THREE Biblical truths about God:

1. God is at work to accomplish His purposes in the WORLD.

2. God is at work to accomplish His purposes in your LIFE.

3. God LOVES you!

Romans 8:1-39


NEXT STEPS:
Take some time today (this week) to reflect on your emotional intelligence (are there emotions that you need to ask God to help you get a better handle on? )

Take some time to reflect on what God might be doing in your life right now to draw you into a relationship with him or make you more like Jesus.

Take some time to reflect and express some emotional gratitude to God for his incredible love and grace over your life.
]]>
John 11:45-50 NLT

Many of the people who were with Mary believed in Jesus when they saw this happen.But some went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done.Then the leading priests and Pharisees called the high council together. “What are we going to do?” they asked each other. “This man certainly performs many miraculous signs.If we allow him to go on like this, soon everyone will believe in him. Then the Roman army will come and destroy both our Temple and our nation.”Caiaphas, who was high priest at that time, said, “You don’t know what you’re talking about!You don’t realize that it’s better for you that one man should die for the people than for the whole nation to be destroyed.”

John 11:51-57 NLT

He did not say this on his own; as high priest at that time he was led to prophesy that Jesus would die for the entire nation.And not only for that nation, but to bring together and unite all the children of God scattered around the world.So from that time on, the Jewish leaders began to plot Jesus’ death.As a result, Jesus stopped his public ministry among the people and left Jerusalem. He went to a place near the wilderness, to the village of Ephraim, and stayed there with his disciples.It was now almost time for the Jewish Passover celebration, and many people from all over the country arrived in Jerusalem several days early so they could go through the purification ceremony before Passover began.They kept looking for Jesus, but as they stood around in the Temple, they said to each other, “What do you think? He won’t come for Passover, will he?”Meanwhile, the leading priests and Pharisees had publicly ordered that anyone seeing Jesus must report it immediately so they could arrest him.

When you feel like your emotions are pushing you to a place where you are overreacting in ways that don’t reflect who you are in Christ, or you feel stuck in sorrow or thoughts of fear or shame = Remind yourself of THREE Biblical truths about God:

1. God is at work to accomplish His purposes in the WORLD.

2. God is at work to accomplish His purposes in your LIFE.

3. God LOVES you!

Romans 8:1-39


NEXT STEPS:
Take some time today (this week) to reflect on your emotional intelligence (are there emotions that you need to ask God to help you get a better handle on? )

Take some time to reflect on what God might be doing in your life right now to draw you into a relationship with him or make you more like Jesus.

Take some time to reflect and express some emotional gratitude to God for his incredible love and grace over your life.
]]>
John 11:45-50 NLT

Many of the people who were with Mary believed in Jesus when they saw this happen.But some went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done.Then the leading priests and Pharisees called the high council together. “What are we going to do?” they asked each other. “This man certainly performs many miraculous signs.If we allow him to go on like this, soon everyone will believe in him. Then the Roman army will come and destroy both our Temple and our nation.”Caiaphas, who was high priest at that time, said, “You don’t know what you’re talking about!You don’t realize that it’s better for you that one man should die for the people than for the whole nation to be destroyed.”

John 11:51-57 NLT

He did not say this on his own; as high priest at that time he was led to prophesy that Jesus would die for the entire nation.And not only for that nation, but to bring together and unite all the children of God scattered around the world.So from that time on, the Jewish leaders began to plot Jesus’ death.As a result, Jesus stopped his public ministry among the people and left Jerusalem. He went to a place near the wilderness, to the village of Ephraim, and stayed there with his disciples.It was now almost time for the Jewish Passover celebration, and many people from all over the country arrived in Jerusalem several days early so they could go through the purification ceremony before Passover began.They kept looking for Jesus, but as they stood around in the Temple, they said to each other, “What do you think? He won’t come for Passover, will he?”Meanwhile, the leading priests and Pharisees had publicly ordered that anyone seeing Jesus must report it immediately so they could arrest him.

When you feel like your emotions are pushing you to a place where you are overreacting in ways that don’t reflect who you are in Christ, or you feel stuck in sorrow or thoughts of fear or shame = Remind yourself of THREE Biblical truths about God:

1. God is at work to accomplish His purposes in the WORLD.

2. God is at work to accomplish His purposes in your LIFE.

3. God LOVES you!

Romans 8:1-39


NEXT STEPS:
Take some time today (this week) to reflect on your emotional intelligence (are there emotions that you need to ask God to help you get a better handle on? )

Take some time to reflect on what God might be doing in your life right now to draw you into a relationship with him or make you more like Jesus.

Take some time to reflect and express some emotional gratitude to God for his incredible love and grace over your life.
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 23 full podcastepisode_7cfb715b11b14a4186bb0c0e1f7c6813 Sun, 14 Jul 2024 06:30:00 -0400
James 1:22 NIV

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

John 11:1-44 NIV

Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha.(This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair.)So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.”When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.”Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more daysand then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.”“But Rabbi,” they said, “a short while ago the Jews there tried to stone you, and yet you are going back?”Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Anyone who walks in the daytime will not stumble, for they see by this world’s light.It is when a person walks at night that they stumble, for they have no light.”After he had said this, he went on to tell them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.”His disciples replied, “Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better.”Jesus had been speaking of his death, but his disciples thought he meant natural sleep.So then he told them plainly, “Lazarus is deadand for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.”Then Thomas (also known as Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days.Now Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalemand many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother.When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home.“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died.But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they dieand whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”“Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”After she had said this, she went back and called her sister Mary aside. “The Teacher is here,” she said, “and is asking for you.”When Mary heard this, she got up quickly and went to him.Now Jesus had not yet entered the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him.When the Jews who had been with Mary in the house, comforting her, noticed how quickly she got up and went out, they followed her, supposing she was going to the tomb to mourn there.When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled.“Where have you laid him?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied.Jesus wept.Then the Jews said, “See how he loved him!”But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?”Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance.“Take away the stone,” he said. “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.”Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me.I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.”When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!”The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

Who am I, in Christ?

Not Forgotten, but Chosen!
Believing, then seeing!
Not Dead, but Alive!

"Do not wait to die, to live."
]]>
James 1:22 NIV

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

John 11:1-44 NIV

Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha.(This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair.)So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.”When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.”Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more daysand then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.”“But Rabbi,” they said, “a short while ago the Jews there tried to stone you, and yet you are going back?”Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Anyone who walks in the daytime will not stumble, for they see by this world’s light.It is when a person walks at night that they stumble, for they have no light.”After he had said this, he went on to tell them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.”His disciples replied, “Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better.”Jesus had been speaking of his death, but his disciples thought he meant natural sleep.So then he told them plainly, “Lazarus is deadand for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.”Then Thomas (also known as Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days.Now Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalemand many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother.When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home.“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died.But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they dieand whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”“Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”After she had said this, she went back and called her sister Mary aside. “The Teacher is here,” she said, “and is asking for you.”When Mary heard this, she got up quickly and went to him.Now Jesus had not yet entered the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him.When the Jews who had been with Mary in the house, comforting her, noticed how quickly she got up and went out, they followed her, supposing she was going to the tomb to mourn there.When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled.“Where have you laid him?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied.Jesus wept.Then the Jews said, “See how he loved him!”But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?”Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance.“Take away the stone,” he said. “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.”Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me.I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.”When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!”The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

Who am I, in Christ?

Not Forgotten, but Chosen!
Believing, then seeing!
Not Dead, but Alive!

"Do not wait to die, to live."
]]>
James 1:22 NIV

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

John 11:1-44 NIV

Now a man named Lazarus was sick. He was from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha.(This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair.)So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.”When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.”Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more daysand then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.”“But Rabbi,” they said, “a short while ago the Jews there tried to stone you, and yet you are going back?”Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? Anyone who walks in the daytime will not stumble, for they see by this world’s light.It is when a person walks at night that they stumble, for they have no light.”After he had said this, he went on to tell them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.”His disciples replied, “Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better.”Jesus had been speaking of his death, but his disciples thought he meant natural sleep.So then he told them plainly, “Lazarus is deadand for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.”Then Thomas (also known as Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days.Now Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalemand many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother.When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home.“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died.But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they dieand whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”“Yes, Lord,” she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”After she had said this, she went back and called her sister Mary aside. “The Teacher is here,” she said, “and is asking for you.”When Mary heard this, she got up quickly and went to him.Now Jesus had not yet entered the village, but was still at the place where Martha had met him.When the Jews who had been with Mary in the house, comforting her, noticed how quickly she got up and went out, they followed her, supposing she was going to the tomb to mourn there.When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled.“Where have you laid him?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied.Jesus wept.Then the Jews said, “See how he loved him!”But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?”Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance.“Take away the stone,” he said. “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.”Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me.I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.”When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!”The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

Who am I, in Christ?

Not Forgotten, but Chosen!
Believing, then seeing!
Not Dead, but Alive!

"Do not wait to die, to live."
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 22 full podcastepisode_8e5cc7dad4044eddaf4e6b942f2b7845 Sun, 7 Jul 2024 06:30:00 -0400
John 10:22-31 NLT

It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication.He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade.The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name.But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep.My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from mefor my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.The Father and I are one.”Once again the people picked up stones to kill him.

John 10:32-40 NLT

Jesus said, “At my Father’s direction I have done many good works. For which one are you going to stone me?”They replied, “We’re stoning you not for any good work, but for blasphemy! You, a mere man, claim to be God.”Jesus replied, “It is written in your own Scriptures that God said to certain leaders of the people, ‘I say, you are gods!’And you know that the Scriptures cannot be altered. So if those people who received God’s message were called ‘gods,’why do you call it blasphemy when I say, ‘I am the Son of God’? After all, the Father set me apart and sent me into the world.Don’t believe me unless I carry out my Father’s work.But if I do his work, believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don’t believe me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.”Once again they tried to arrest him, but he got away and left them.He went beyond the Jordan River near the place where John was first baptizing and stayed there awhile.

John 10:41-42 NLT

And many followed him. “John didn’t perform miraculous signs,” they remarked to one another, “but everything he said about this man has come true.”And many who were there believed in Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:16 NLT

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

Romans 1:18-20 NLT

But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness.They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them.For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

Are there times when we say we need Jesus to speak more plainly, when in reality we just need to listen more consistently?

James 1:22-25 NLT

But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror.You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.

James 2:14-19 NLT

What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothingand you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.

1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NLT

If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing.If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing.

"I believe Jesus is the Son of God, therefore I will do what he has plainly instructed me to do by... (FILL IN THE BLANK)."
]]>
John 10:22-31 NLT

It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication.He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade.The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name.But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep.My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from mefor my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.The Father and I are one.”Once again the people picked up stones to kill him.

John 10:32-40 NLT

Jesus said, “At my Father’s direction I have done many good works. For which one are you going to stone me?”They replied, “We’re stoning you not for any good work, but for blasphemy! You, a mere man, claim to be God.”Jesus replied, “It is written in your own Scriptures that God said to certain leaders of the people, ‘I say, you are gods!’And you know that the Scriptures cannot be altered. So if those people who received God’s message were called ‘gods,’why do you call it blasphemy when I say, ‘I am the Son of God’? After all, the Father set me apart and sent me into the world.Don’t believe me unless I carry out my Father’s work.But if I do his work, believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don’t believe me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.”Once again they tried to arrest him, but he got away and left them.He went beyond the Jordan River near the place where John was first baptizing and stayed there awhile.

John 10:41-42 NLT

And many followed him. “John didn’t perform miraculous signs,” they remarked to one another, “but everything he said about this man has come true.”And many who were there believed in Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:16 NLT

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

Romans 1:18-20 NLT

But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness.They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them.For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

Are there times when we say we need Jesus to speak more plainly, when in reality we just need to listen more consistently?

James 1:22-25 NLT

But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror.You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.

James 2:14-19 NLT

What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothingand you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.

1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NLT

If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing.If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing.

"I believe Jesus is the Son of God, therefore I will do what he has plainly instructed me to do by... (FILL IN THE BLANK)."
]]>
John 10:22-31 NLT

It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication.He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade.The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name.But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep.My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from mefor my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.The Father and I are one.”Once again the people picked up stones to kill him.

John 10:32-40 NLT

Jesus said, “At my Father’s direction I have done many good works. For which one are you going to stone me?”They replied, “We’re stoning you not for any good work, but for blasphemy! You, a mere man, claim to be God.”Jesus replied, “It is written in your own Scriptures that God said to certain leaders of the people, ‘I say, you are gods!’And you know that the Scriptures cannot be altered. So if those people who received God’s message were called ‘gods,’why do you call it blasphemy when I say, ‘I am the Son of God’? After all, the Father set me apart and sent me into the world.Don’t believe me unless I carry out my Father’s work.But if I do his work, believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don’t believe me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.”Once again they tried to arrest him, but he got away and left them.He went beyond the Jordan River near the place where John was first baptizing and stayed there awhile.

John 10:41-42 NLT

And many followed him. “John didn’t perform miraculous signs,” they remarked to one another, “but everything he said about this man has come true.”And many who were there believed in Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:16 NLT

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

Romans 1:18-20 NLT

But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness.They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them.For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.

Are there times when we say we need Jesus to speak more plainly, when in reality we just need to listen more consistently?

James 1:22-25 NLT

But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror.You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.

James 2:14-19 NLT

What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothingand you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.

1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NLT

If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God’s secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn’t love others, I would be nothing.If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing.

"I believe Jesus is the Son of God, therefore I will do what he has plainly instructed me to do by... (FILL IN THE BLANK)."
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 21 full podcastepisode_98ec10925f174634b2f93c6748c92c9c Sun, 30 Jun 2024 06:30:00 -0400
John 10:1-9 NLT

“I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber!But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice.They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.”Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meantso he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them.Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures.

John 10:10-19 NLT

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock.The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep.“I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know mejust as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep.I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.“The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again.No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.”When he said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about him.

John 10:20-25 NLT

Some said, “He’s demon possessed and out of his mind. Why listen to a man like that?”Others said, “This doesn’t sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication.He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade.The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name.

John 10:26-30 NLT

But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep.My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from mefor my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.The Father and I are one.”

Psalms 23:1-6 NLT

The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need.He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.

John 10:26-30 NLT

But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep.My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from mefor my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.The Father and I are one.”
]]>
John 10:1-9 NLT

“I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber!But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice.They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.”Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meantso he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them.Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures.

John 10:10-19 NLT

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock.The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep.“I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know mejust as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep.I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.“The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again.No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.”When he said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about him.

John 10:20-25 NLT

Some said, “He’s demon possessed and out of his mind. Why listen to a man like that?”Others said, “This doesn’t sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication.He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade.The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name.

John 10:26-30 NLT

But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep.My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from mefor my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.The Father and I are one.”

Psalms 23:1-6 NLT

The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need.He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.

John 10:26-30 NLT

But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep.My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from mefor my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.The Father and I are one.”
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John 10:1-9 NLT

“I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber!But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice.They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.”Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meantso he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them.Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures.

John 10:10-19 NLT

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock.The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep.“I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know mejust as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep.I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.“The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again.No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.”When he said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about him.

John 10:20-25 NLT

Some said, “He’s demon possessed and out of his mind. Why listen to a man like that?”Others said, “This doesn’t sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication.He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade.The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name.

John 10:26-30 NLT

But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep.My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from mefor my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.The Father and I are one.”

Psalms 23:1-6 NLT

The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need.He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.

John 10:26-30 NLT

But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep.My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from mefor my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.The Father and I are one.”
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 20 full podcastepisode_d86c6e4862ee45d498a936952d700012 Sun, 23 Jun 2024 06:30:00 -0400
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
1As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. 2“Rabbi,” his disciples asked him, “why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?”
3 “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. 4We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work. 5But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.”
6Then he spit on the ground, made mud with the saliva, and spread the mud over the blind man’s eyes. 7He told him, “Go wash yourself in the pool of Siloam” (Siloam means “sent”). So the man went and washed and came back seeing!
8His neighbors and others who knew him as a blind beggar asked each other, “Isn’t this the man who used to sit and beg?” 9Some said he was, and others said, “No, he just looks like him!”
But the beggar kept saying, “Yes, I am the same one!”
10They asked, “Who healed you? What happened?”
11He told them, “The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.’ So I went and washed, and now I can see!”
12“Where is he now?” they asked.
“I don’t know,” he replied.
13Then they took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees, 14because it was on the Sabbath that Jesus had made the mud and healed him. 15The Pharisees asked the man all about it. So he told them, “He put the mud over my eyes, and when I washed it away, I could see!”
16Some of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for he is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them.
17Then the Pharisees again questioned the man who had been blind and demanded, “What’s your opinion about this man who healed you?”
The man replied, “I think he must be a prophet.”
18The Jewish leaders still refused to believe the man had been blind and could now see, so they called in his parents. 19They asked them, “Is this your son? Was he born blind? If so, how can he now see?”
20His parents replied, “We know this is our son and that he was born blind, 21but we don’t know how he can see or who healed him. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” 22His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who had announced that anyone saying Jesus was the Messiah would be expelled from the synagogue. 23That’s why they said, “He is old enough. Ask him.”
24So for the second time they called in the man who had been blind and told him, “God should get the glory for this, because we know this man Jesus is a sinner.”
25“I don’t know whether he is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!”
26“But what did he do?” they asked. “How did he heal you?”
27“Look!” the man exclaimed. “I told you once. Didn’t you listen? Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?”
28Then they cursed him and said, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses! 29We know God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this man comes from.”
30“Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where he comes from? 31We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. 32Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have done it.”
34“You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue.
Spiritual Blindness
35When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”
36The man answered, “Who is he, sir? I want to believe in him.”
37 “You have seen him,” Jesus said, “and he is speaking to you!”
38“Yes, Lord, I believe!” the man said. And he worshiped Jesus.
39Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”
40Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?”
41 “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.
]]>
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
1As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. 2“Rabbi,” his disciples asked him, “why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?”
3 “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. 4We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work. 5But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.”
6Then he spit on the ground, made mud with the saliva, and spread the mud over the blind man’s eyes. 7He told him, “Go wash yourself in the pool of Siloam” (Siloam means “sent”). So the man went and washed and came back seeing!
8His neighbors and others who knew him as a blind beggar asked each other, “Isn’t this the man who used to sit and beg?” 9Some said he was, and others said, “No, he just looks like him!”
But the beggar kept saying, “Yes, I am the same one!”
10They asked, “Who healed you? What happened?”
11He told them, “The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.’ So I went and washed, and now I can see!”
12“Where is he now?” they asked.
“I don’t know,” he replied.
13Then they took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees, 14because it was on the Sabbath that Jesus had made the mud and healed him. 15The Pharisees asked the man all about it. So he told them, “He put the mud over my eyes, and when I washed it away, I could see!”
16Some of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for he is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them.
17Then the Pharisees again questioned the man who had been blind and demanded, “What’s your opinion about this man who healed you?”
The man replied, “I think he must be a prophet.”
18The Jewish leaders still refused to believe the man had been blind and could now see, so they called in his parents. 19They asked them, “Is this your son? Was he born blind? If so, how can he now see?”
20His parents replied, “We know this is our son and that he was born blind, 21but we don’t know how he can see or who healed him. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” 22His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who had announced that anyone saying Jesus was the Messiah would be expelled from the synagogue. 23That’s why they said, “He is old enough. Ask him.”
24So for the second time they called in the man who had been blind and told him, “God should get the glory for this, because we know this man Jesus is a sinner.”
25“I don’t know whether he is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!”
26“But what did he do?” they asked. “How did he heal you?”
27“Look!” the man exclaimed. “I told you once. Didn’t you listen? Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?”
28Then they cursed him and said, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses! 29We know God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this man comes from.”
30“Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where he comes from? 31We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. 32Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have done it.”
34“You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue.
Spiritual Blindness
35When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”
36The man answered, “Who is he, sir? I want to believe in him.”
37 “You have seen him,” Jesus said, “and he is speaking to you!”
38“Yes, Lord, I believe!” the man said. And he worshiped Jesus.
39Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”
40Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?”
41 “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.
]]>
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
1As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. 2“Rabbi,” his disciples asked him, “why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?”
3 “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. 4We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work. 5But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.”
6Then he spit on the ground, made mud with the saliva, and spread the mud over the blind man’s eyes. 7He told him, “Go wash yourself in the pool of Siloam” (Siloam means “sent”). So the man went and washed and came back seeing!
8His neighbors and others who knew him as a blind beggar asked each other, “Isn’t this the man who used to sit and beg?” 9Some said he was, and others said, “No, he just looks like him!”
But the beggar kept saying, “Yes, I am the same one!”
10They asked, “Who healed you? What happened?”
11He told them, “The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.’ So I went and washed, and now I can see!”
12“Where is he now?” they asked.
“I don’t know,” he replied.
13Then they took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees, 14because it was on the Sabbath that Jesus had made the mud and healed him. 15The Pharisees asked the man all about it. So he told them, “He put the mud over my eyes, and when I washed it away, I could see!”
16Some of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for he is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them.
17Then the Pharisees again questioned the man who had been blind and demanded, “What’s your opinion about this man who healed you?”
The man replied, “I think he must be a prophet.”
18The Jewish leaders still refused to believe the man had been blind and could now see, so they called in his parents. 19They asked them, “Is this your son? Was he born blind? If so, how can he now see?”
20His parents replied, “We know this is our son and that he was born blind, 21but we don’t know how he can see or who healed him. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” 22His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who had announced that anyone saying Jesus was the Messiah would be expelled from the synagogue. 23That’s why they said, “He is old enough. Ask him.”
24So for the second time they called in the man who had been blind and told him, “God should get the glory for this, because we know this man Jesus is a sinner.”
25“I don’t know whether he is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!”
26“But what did he do?” they asked. “How did he heal you?”
27“Look!” the man exclaimed. “I told you once. Didn’t you listen? Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?”
28Then they cursed him and said, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses! 29We know God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this man comes from.”
30“Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where he comes from? 31We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. 32Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have done it.”
34“You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue.
Spiritual Blindness
35When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”
36The man answered, “Who is he, sir? I want to believe in him.”
37 “You have seen him,” Jesus said, “and he is speaking to you!”
38“Yes, Lord, I believe!” the man said. And he worshiped Jesus.
39Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”
40Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?”
41 “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 19 full podcastepisode_6afa314a92f3410eb249652fdc110209 Sun, 16 Jun 2024 06:30:00 -0400
The Pharisees replied, “You are making those claims about yourself! Such testimony is not valid.”Jesus told them, “These claims are valid even though I make them about myself. For I know where I came from and where I am going, but you don’t know this about me.You judge me by human standards, but I do not judge anyone.And if I did, my judgment would be correct in every respect because I am not alone. The Father who sent me is with me.Your own law says that if two people agree about something, their witness is accepted as fact.I am one witness, and my Father who sent me is the other.”“Where is your father?” they asked. Jesus answered, “Since you don’t know who I am, you don’t know who my Father is. If you knew me, you would also know my Father.”Jesus made these statements while he was teaching in the section of the Temple known as the Treasury. But he was not arrested, because his time had not yet come.Later Jesus said to them again, “I am going away. You will search for me but will die in your sin. You cannot come where I am going.”The people asked, “Is he planning to commit suicide? What does he mean, ‘You cannot come where I am going’?”
John 8:23-32 NLT

Jesus continued, “You are from below; I am from above. You belong to this world; I do not.That is why I said that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I AM who I claim to be, you will die in your sins.”“Who are you?” they demanded. Jesus replied, “The one I have always claimed to be.I have much to say about you and much to condemn, but I won’t. For I say only what I have heard from the one who sent me, and he is completely truthful.”But they still didn’t understand that he was talking about his Father.So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will understand that I AM he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me.And the one who sent me is with me—he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him.”Then many who heard him say these things believed in him.Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings.And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:33-42 NLT

“But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?”Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin.A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever.So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.Yes, I realize that you are descendants of Abraham. And yet some of you are trying to kill me because there’s no room in your hearts for my message.I am telling you what I saw when I was with my Father. But you are following the advice of your father.”“Our father is Abraham!” they declared. “No,” Jesus replied, “for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example.Instead, you are trying to kill me because I told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing.No, you are imitating your real father.” They replied, “We aren’t illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father.”Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me.
John 8:43-52 NLT

Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me!For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe me!Which of you can truthfully accuse me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe me?Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.”The people retorted, “You Samaritan devil! Didn’t we say all along that you were possessed by a demon?”“No,” Jesus said, “I have no demon in me. For I honor my Father—and you dishonor me.And though I have no wish to glorify myself, God is going to glorify me. He is the true judge.I tell you the truth, anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!”The people said, “Now we know you are possessed by a demon. Even Abraham and the prophets died, but you say, ‘Anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!’
John 8:53-59 NLT

Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?”Jesus answered, “If I want glory for myself, it doesn’t count. But it is my Father who will glorify me. You say, ‘He is our God,’but you don’t even know him. I know him. If I said otherwise, I would be as great a liar as you! But I do know him and obey him.Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad.”The people said, “You aren’t even fifty years old. How can you say you have seen Abraham?”Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM!”At that point they picked up stones to throw at him. But Jesus was hidden from them and left the Temple.

Galatians 4:3-7 NLT

And that’s the way it was with us before Christ came. We were like children; we were slaves to the basic spiritual principles of this world.But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law.God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children.And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.”Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.
Ephesians 1:4-6 NLT

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.
Matthew 7:21-23 NLT

“Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter.On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’
James 2:19 NLT

You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.
Ephesians 2:8-10 NLT

God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
Psalms 68:5 NLT

Father to the fatherless, defender of widows— this is God, whose dwelling is holy.
Romans 8:12-17 NLT

Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do.For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live.For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.”For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.
]]>
The Pharisees replied, “You are making those claims about yourself! Such testimony is not valid.”Jesus told them, “These claims are valid even though I make them about myself. For I know where I came from and where I am going, but you don’t know this about me.You judge me by human standards, but I do not judge anyone.And if I did, my judgment would be correct in every respect because I am not alone. The Father who sent me is with me.Your own law says that if two people agree about something, their witness is accepted as fact.I am one witness, and my Father who sent me is the other.”“Where is your father?” they asked. Jesus answered, “Since you don’t know who I am, you don’t know who my Father is. If you knew me, you would also know my Father.”Jesus made these statements while he was teaching in the section of the Temple known as the Treasury. But he was not arrested, because his time had not yet come.Later Jesus said to them again, “I am going away. You will search for me but will die in your sin. You cannot come where I am going.”The people asked, “Is he planning to commit suicide? What does he mean, ‘You cannot come where I am going’?”
John 8:23-32 NLT

Jesus continued, “You are from below; I am from above. You belong to this world; I do not.That is why I said that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I AM who I claim to be, you will die in your sins.”“Who are you?” they demanded. Jesus replied, “The one I have always claimed to be.I have much to say about you and much to condemn, but I won’t. For I say only what I have heard from the one who sent me, and he is completely truthful.”But they still didn’t understand that he was talking about his Father.So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will understand that I AM he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me.And the one who sent me is with me—he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him.”Then many who heard him say these things believed in him.Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings.And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:33-42 NLT

“But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?”Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin.A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever.So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.Yes, I realize that you are descendants of Abraham. And yet some of you are trying to kill me because there’s no room in your hearts for my message.I am telling you what I saw when I was with my Father. But you are following the advice of your father.”“Our father is Abraham!” they declared. “No,” Jesus replied, “for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example.Instead, you are trying to kill me because I told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing.No, you are imitating your real father.” They replied, “We aren’t illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father.”Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me.
John 8:43-52 NLT

Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me!For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe me!Which of you can truthfully accuse me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe me?Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.”The people retorted, “You Samaritan devil! Didn’t we say all along that you were possessed by a demon?”“No,” Jesus said, “I have no demon in me. For I honor my Father—and you dishonor me.And though I have no wish to glorify myself, God is going to glorify me. He is the true judge.I tell you the truth, anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!”The people said, “Now we know you are possessed by a demon. Even Abraham and the prophets died, but you say, ‘Anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!’
John 8:53-59 NLT

Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?”Jesus answered, “If I want glory for myself, it doesn’t count. But it is my Father who will glorify me. You say, ‘He is our God,’but you don’t even know him. I know him. If I said otherwise, I would be as great a liar as you! But I do know him and obey him.Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad.”The people said, “You aren’t even fifty years old. How can you say you have seen Abraham?”Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM!”At that point they picked up stones to throw at him. But Jesus was hidden from them and left the Temple.

Galatians 4:3-7 NLT

And that’s the way it was with us before Christ came. We were like children; we were slaves to the basic spiritual principles of this world.But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law.God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children.And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.”Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.
Ephesians 1:4-6 NLT

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.
Matthew 7:21-23 NLT

“Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter.On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’
James 2:19 NLT

You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.
Ephesians 2:8-10 NLT

God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
Psalms 68:5 NLT

Father to the fatherless, defender of widows— this is God, whose dwelling is holy.
Romans 8:12-17 NLT

Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do.For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live.For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.”For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.
]]>
The Pharisees replied, “You are making those claims about yourself! Such testimony is not valid.”Jesus told them, “These claims are valid even though I make them about myself. For I know where I came from and where I am going, but you don’t know this about me.You judge me by human standards, but I do not judge anyone.And if I did, my judgment would be correct in every respect because I am not alone. The Father who sent me is with me.Your own law says that if two people agree about something, their witness is accepted as fact.I am one witness, and my Father who sent me is the other.”“Where is your father?” they asked. Jesus answered, “Since you don’t know who I am, you don’t know who my Father is. If you knew me, you would also know my Father.”Jesus made these statements while he was teaching in the section of the Temple known as the Treasury. But he was not arrested, because his time had not yet come.Later Jesus said to them again, “I am going away. You will search for me but will die in your sin. You cannot come where I am going.”The people asked, “Is he planning to commit suicide? What does he mean, ‘You cannot come where I am going’?”
John 8:23-32 NLT

Jesus continued, “You are from below; I am from above. You belong to this world; I do not.That is why I said that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I AM who I claim to be, you will die in your sins.”“Who are you?” they demanded. Jesus replied, “The one I have always claimed to be.I have much to say about you and much to condemn, but I won’t. For I say only what I have heard from the one who sent me, and he is completely truthful.”But they still didn’t understand that he was talking about his Father.So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will understand that I AM he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me.And the one who sent me is with me—he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him.”Then many who heard him say these things believed in him.Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings.And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:33-42 NLT

“But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?”Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin.A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever.So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.Yes, I realize that you are descendants of Abraham. And yet some of you are trying to kill me because there’s no room in your hearts for my message.I am telling you what I saw when I was with my Father. But you are following the advice of your father.”“Our father is Abraham!” they declared. “No,” Jesus replied, “for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example.Instead, you are trying to kill me because I told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing.No, you are imitating your real father.” They replied, “We aren’t illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father.”Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me.
John 8:43-52 NLT

Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me!For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe me!Which of you can truthfully accuse me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe me?Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.”The people retorted, “You Samaritan devil! Didn’t we say all along that you were possessed by a demon?”“No,” Jesus said, “I have no demon in me. For I honor my Father—and you dishonor me.And though I have no wish to glorify myself, God is going to glorify me. He is the true judge.I tell you the truth, anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!”The people said, “Now we know you are possessed by a demon. Even Abraham and the prophets died, but you say, ‘Anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!’
John 8:53-59 NLT

Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?”Jesus answered, “If I want glory for myself, it doesn’t count. But it is my Father who will glorify me. You say, ‘He is our God,’but you don’t even know him. I know him. If I said otherwise, I would be as great a liar as you! But I do know him and obey him.Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad.”The people said, “You aren’t even fifty years old. How can you say you have seen Abraham?”Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM!”At that point they picked up stones to throw at him. But Jesus was hidden from them and left the Temple.

Galatians 4:3-7 NLT

And that’s the way it was with us before Christ came. We were like children; we were slaves to the basic spiritual principles of this world.But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law.God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children.And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.”Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.
Ephesians 1:4-6 NLT

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.
Matthew 7:21-23 NLT

“Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter.On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’
James 2:19 NLT

You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.
Ephesians 2:8-10 NLT

God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
Psalms 68:5 NLT

Father to the fatherless, defender of widows— this is God, whose dwelling is holy.
Romans 8:12-17 NLT

Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do.For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live.For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.”For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.
]]> false Who is Jesus, The Gosel of John, Part 18 full podcastepisode_4d85918b50f442ba871e4a827536f8b5 Sun, 9 Jun 2024 06:30:00 -0400
Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”

Do we follow Jesus like He is our only source of light we should follow in life?

Level of Dependance on Jesus 1-10

Level of Obedience to Jesus. 1-10

Level of Confidence in Jesus. 1-10

John 3:19-21 NLT

And the judgment is based on this fact: God’s light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil.All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed.But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants.”

Ephesians 5:8-14 NLT

For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true.Carefully determine what pleases the Lord.Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret.But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on themfor the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light.”

1 John 1:5-7 NLT

This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth.But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.

Matthew 5:14 NLT

“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.

Psalms 119:105 NLT

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

2 Corinthians 6:14-18 NLT

Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever?And what union can there be between God’s temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said: “I will live in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people.Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD. Don’t touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you.And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the LORD Almighty.”
]]>
Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”

Do we follow Jesus like He is our only source of light we should follow in life?

Level of Dependance on Jesus 1-10

Level of Obedience to Jesus. 1-10

Level of Confidence in Jesus. 1-10

John 3:19-21 NLT

And the judgment is based on this fact: God’s light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil.All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed.But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants.”

Ephesians 5:8-14 NLT

For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true.Carefully determine what pleases the Lord.Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret.But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on themfor the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light.”

1 John 1:5-7 NLT

This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth.But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.

Matthew 5:14 NLT

“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.

Psalms 119:105 NLT

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

2 Corinthians 6:14-18 NLT

Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever?And what union can there be between God’s temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said: “I will live in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people.Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD. Don’t touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you.And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the LORD Almighty.”
]]>
Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”

Do we follow Jesus like He is our only source of light we should follow in life?

Level of Dependance on Jesus 1-10

Level of Obedience to Jesus. 1-10

Level of Confidence in Jesus. 1-10

John 3:19-21 NLT

And the judgment is based on this fact: God’s light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil.All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed.But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants.”

Ephesians 5:8-14 NLT

For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true.Carefully determine what pleases the Lord.Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret.But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on themfor the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light.”

1 John 1:5-7 NLT

This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all.So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth.But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.

Matthew 5:14 NLT

“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.

Psalms 119:105 NLT

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.

2 Corinthians 6:14-18 NLT

Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness?What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever?And what union can there be between God’s temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said: “I will live in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people.Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD. Don’t touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you.And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the LORD Almighty.”
]]> false Who is Jesus, The Gospel of John, Part 18 full podcastepisode_d025cae09f5e4e9a83b07aa236747aa9 Sun, 2 Jun 2024 06:30:00 -0400
but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them.As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.“Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery.The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger.They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!”Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman.Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”“No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” ---------

How do we find a balance of loving people living sinful lives and hating sin?

With a FULL MEASURE of BOTH LOVE AND TRUTH!

Romans 5:8 NIV

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Leviticus 20:10 NIV

“ ‘If a man commits adultery with another man’s wife—with the wife of his neighbor—both the adulterer and the adulteress are to be put to death.

Deuteronomy 22:22-24 NIV

If a man is found sleeping with another man’s wife, both the man who slept with her and the woman must die. You must purge the evil from Israel.If a man happens to meet in a town a virgin pledged to be married and he sleeps with heryou shall take both of them to the gate of that town and stone them to death—the young woman because she was in a town and did not scream for help, and the man because he violated another man’s wife. You must purge the evil from among you.

Deuteronomy 17:6-7 NIV

On the testimony of two or three witnesses a person is to be put to death, but no one is to be put to death on the testimony of only one witness.The hands of the witnesses must be the first in putting that person to death, and then the hands of all the people. You must purge the evil from among you.

Deuteronomy 19:15-19 NIV

One witness is not enough to convict anyone accused of any crime or offense they may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.If a malicious witness takes the stand to accuse someone of a crimethe two people involved in the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD before the priests and the judges who are in office at the time.The judges must make a thorough investigation, and if the witness proves to be a liar, giving false testimony against a fellow Israelitethen do to the false witness as that witness intended to do to the other party. You must purge the evil from among you.

How to Love your LGBT Neighbor
This article is by Becket Cook: the author of “A Change of Affection: A Gay Man’s Incredible Story of Redemption”.
https://www.boundless.org/blog/how-to-love-your-lgbt-neighbor-during-pride-month-and-every-month/

How Should Christians Respond to Pride Month
This article of from The Rebelution
https://www.therebelution.com/blog/2021/06/how-should-christians-respond-to-pride-month/

How Should Christians Respond to Pride Month?
This podcast is from Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
https://billygraham.org/story/how-should-christians-respond-to-pride-month/

How Should Christians Respond to Pride Month?
This article is from "GotQuestions.org"
https://www.gotquestions.org/Pride-Month.html
]]>
but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them.As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.“Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery.The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger.They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!”Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman.Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”“No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” ---------

How do we find a balance of loving people living sinful lives and hating sin?

With a FULL MEASURE of BOTH LOVE AND TRUTH!

Romans 5:8 NIV

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Leviticus 20:10 NIV

“ ‘If a man commits adultery with another man’s wife—with the wife of his neighbor—both the adulterer and the adulteress are to be put to death.

Deuteronomy 22:22-24 NIV

If a man is found sleeping with another man’s wife, both the man who slept with her and the woman must die. You must purge the evil from Israel.If a man happens to meet in a town a virgin pledged to be married and he sleeps with heryou shall take both of them to the gate of that town and stone them to death—the young woman because she was in a town and did not scream for help, and the man because he violated another man’s wife. You must purge the evil from among you.

Deuteronomy 17:6-7 NIV

On the testimony of two or three witnesses a person is to be put to death, but no one is to be put to death on the testimony of only one witness.The hands of the witnesses must be the first in putting that person to death, and then the hands of all the people. You must purge the evil from among you.

Deuteronomy 19:15-19 NIV

One witness is not enough to convict anyone accused of any crime or offense they may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.If a malicious witness takes the stand to accuse someone of a crimethe two people involved in the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD before the priests and the judges who are in office at the time.The judges must make a thorough investigation, and if the witness proves to be a liar, giving false testimony against a fellow Israelitethen do to the false witness as that witness intended to do to the other party. You must purge the evil from among you.

How to Love your LGBT Neighbor
This article is by Becket Cook: the author of “A Change of Affection: A Gay Man’s Incredible Story of Redemption”.
https://www.boundless.org/blog/how-to-love-your-lgbt-neighbor-during-pride-month-and-every-month/

How Should Christians Respond to Pride Month
This article of from The Rebelution
https://www.therebelution.com/blog/2021/06/how-should-christians-respond-to-pride-month/

How Should Christians Respond to Pride Month?
This podcast is from Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
https://billygraham.org/story/how-should-christians-respond-to-pride-month/

How Should Christians Respond to Pride Month?
This article is from "GotQuestions.org"
https://www.gotquestions.org/Pride-Month.html
]]>
but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them.As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.“Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery.The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger.They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!”Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman.Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”“No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.” ---------

How do we find a balance of loving people living sinful lives and hating sin?

With a FULL MEASURE of BOTH LOVE AND TRUTH!

Romans 5:8 NIV

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Leviticus 20:10 NIV

“ ‘If a man commits adultery with another man’s wife—with the wife of his neighbor—both the adulterer and the adulteress are to be put to death.

Deuteronomy 22:22-24 NIV

If a man is found sleeping with another man’s wife, both the man who slept with her and the woman must die. You must purge the evil from Israel.If a man happens to meet in a town a virgin pledged to be married and he sleeps with heryou shall take both of them to the gate of that town and stone them to death—the young woman because she was in a town and did not scream for help, and the man because he violated another man’s wife. You must purge the evil from among you.

Deuteronomy 17:6-7 NIV

On the testimony of two or three witnesses a person is to be put to death, but no one is to be put to death on the testimony of only one witness.The hands of the witnesses must be the first in putting that person to death, and then the hands of all the people. You must purge the evil from among you.

Deuteronomy 19:15-19 NIV

One witness is not enough to convict anyone accused of any crime or offense they may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.If a malicious witness takes the stand to accuse someone of a crimethe two people involved in the dispute must stand in the presence of the LORD before the priests and the judges who are in office at the time.The judges must make a thorough investigation, and if the witness proves to be a liar, giving false testimony against a fellow Israelitethen do to the false witness as that witness intended to do to the other party. You must purge the evil from among you.

How to Love your LGBT Neighbor
This article is by Becket Cook: the author of “A Change of Affection: A Gay Man’s Incredible Story of Redemption”.
https://www.boundless.org/blog/how-to-love-your-lgbt-neighbor-during-pride-month-and-every-month/

How Should Christians Respond to Pride Month
This article of from The Rebelution
https://www.therebelution.com/blog/2021/06/how-should-christians-respond-to-pride-month/

How Should Christians Respond to Pride Month?
This podcast is from Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
https://billygraham.org/story/how-should-christians-respond-to-pride-month/

How Should Christians Respond to Pride Month?
This article is from "GotQuestions.org"
https://www.gotquestions.org/Pride-Month.html
]]> false Memorial Day, Eagle Commission, Mark Penfold full podcastepisode_b9c2ecf552804664921ea99ab616ee27 Sun, 26 May 2024 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 16 full podcastepisode_a531f135fccd4bcebf82a85048f54c83 Sun, 19 May 2024 06:30:00 -0400
John 7:37-38 ESV

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”

Zechariah 14:16-19

In the end, the enemies of Jerusalem who survive the plague will go up to Jerusalem each year to worship the King, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, and to celebrate the Festival of Shelters.Any nation in the world that refuses to come to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, will have no rain.If the people of Egypt refuse to attend the festival, the LORD will punish them with the same plague that he sends on the other nations who refuse to go.Egypt and the other nations will all be punished if they don’t go to celebrate the Festival of Shelters.

Isaiah 55:1 NLT

“Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it’s all free!

Isaiah 58:11 NLT

The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring.

Ezekiel 47:1 NLT

In my vision, the man brought me back to the entrance of the Temple. There I saw a stream flowing east from beneath the door of the Temple and passing to the right of the altar on its south side.

Zechariah 14:8-9 NLT

On that day life-giving waters will flow out from Jerusalem, half toward the Dead Sea and half toward the Mediterranean, flowing continuously in both summer and winter.And the LORD will be king over all the earth. On that day there will be one LORD—his name alone will be worshiped.

Zechariah 13:1 NLT

“On that day a fountain will be opened for the dynasty of David and for the people of Jerusalem, a fountain to cleanse them from all their sins and impurity.

Isaiah 44:3 NLT

For I will pour out water to quench your thirst and to irrigate your parched fields. And I will pour out my Spirit on your descendants, and my blessing on your children.

ARE YOU THIRSTY?
]]>
John 7:37-38 ESV

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”

Zechariah 14:16-19

In the end, the enemies of Jerusalem who survive the plague will go up to Jerusalem each year to worship the King, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, and to celebrate the Festival of Shelters.Any nation in the world that refuses to come to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, will have no rain.If the people of Egypt refuse to attend the festival, the LORD will punish them with the same plague that he sends on the other nations who refuse to go.Egypt and the other nations will all be punished if they don’t go to celebrate the Festival of Shelters.

Isaiah 55:1 NLT

“Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it’s all free!

Isaiah 58:11 NLT

The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring.

Ezekiel 47:1 NLT

In my vision, the man brought me back to the entrance of the Temple. There I saw a stream flowing east from beneath the door of the Temple and passing to the right of the altar on its south side.

Zechariah 14:8-9 NLT

On that day life-giving waters will flow out from Jerusalem, half toward the Dead Sea and half toward the Mediterranean, flowing continuously in both summer and winter.And the LORD will be king over all the earth. On that day there will be one LORD—his name alone will be worshiped.

Zechariah 13:1 NLT

“On that day a fountain will be opened for the dynasty of David and for the people of Jerusalem, a fountain to cleanse them from all their sins and impurity.

Isaiah 44:3 NLT

For I will pour out water to quench your thirst and to irrigate your parched fields. And I will pour out my Spirit on your descendants, and my blessing on your children.

ARE YOU THIRSTY?
]]>
John 7:37-38 ESV

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”

Zechariah 14:16-19

In the end, the enemies of Jerusalem who survive the plague will go up to Jerusalem each year to worship the King, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, and to celebrate the Festival of Shelters.Any nation in the world that refuses to come to Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, will have no rain.If the people of Egypt refuse to attend the festival, the LORD will punish them with the same plague that he sends on the other nations who refuse to go.Egypt and the other nations will all be punished if they don’t go to celebrate the Festival of Shelters.

Isaiah 55:1 NLT

“Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it’s all free!

Isaiah 58:11 NLT

The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring.

Ezekiel 47:1 NLT

In my vision, the man brought me back to the entrance of the Temple. There I saw a stream flowing east from beneath the door of the Temple and passing to the right of the altar on its south side.

Zechariah 14:8-9 NLT

On that day life-giving waters will flow out from Jerusalem, half toward the Dead Sea and half toward the Mediterranean, flowing continuously in both summer and winter.And the LORD will be king over all the earth. On that day there will be one LORD—his name alone will be worshiped.

Zechariah 13:1 NLT

“On that day a fountain will be opened for the dynasty of David and for the people of Jerusalem, a fountain to cleanse them from all their sins and impurity.

Isaiah 44:3 NLT

For I will pour out water to quench your thirst and to irrigate your parched fields. And I will pour out my Spirit on your descendants, and my blessing on your children.

ARE YOU THIRSTY?
]]> false Who is Jesus? the Gospel of John, Part 15 full podcastepisode_21b8cdeed26344ce8028075cf8a801d7 Fri, 17 May 2024 06:30:00 -0400

John 7:14-23
Then, midway through the festival, Jesus went up to the Temple and began to teach.The people were surprised when they heard him. “How does he know so much when he hasn’t been trained?” they asked.So Jesus told them, “My message is not my own; it comes from God who sent me.Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own.Those who speak for themselves want glory only for themselves, but a person who seeks to honor the one who sent him speaks truth, not lies.Moses gave you the law, but none of you obeys it! In fact, you are trying to kill me.”The crowd replied, “You’re demon possessed! Who’s trying to kill you?”Jesus replied, “I did one miracle on the Sabbath, and you were amazed.But you work on the Sabbath, too, when you obey Moses’ law of circumcision. (Actually, this tradition of circumcision began with the patriarchs, long before the law of Moses.)For if the correct time for circumcising your son falls on the Sabbath, you go ahead and do it so as not to break the law of Moses. So why should you be angry with me for healing a man on the Sabbath?

John 7:24-33
Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.”Some of the people who lived in Jerusalem started to ask each other, “Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill?But here he is, speaking in public, and they say nothing to him. Could our leaders possibly believe that he is the Messiah?But how could he be? For we know where this man comes from. When the Messiah comes, he will simply appear; no one will know where he comes from.”While Jesus was teaching in the Temple, he called out, “Yes, you know me, and you know where I come from. But I’m not here on my own. The one who sent me is true, and you don’t know him.But I know him because I come from him, and he sent me to you.”Then the leaders tried to arrest him; but no one laid a hand on him, because his time had not yet come.Many among the crowds at the Temple believed in him. “After all,” they said, “would you expect the Messiah to do more miraculous signs than this man has done?”When the Pharisees heard that the crowds were whispering such things, they and the leading priests sent Temple guards to arrest Jesus.But Jesus told them, “I will be with you only a little longer. Then I will return to the one who sent me.

John 7:34-36
You will search for me but not find me. And you cannot go where I am going.”The Jewish leaders were puzzled by this statement. “Where is he planning to go?” they asked. “Is he thinking of leaving the country and going to the Jews in other lands? Maybe he will even teach the Greeks!What does he mean when he says, ‘You will search for me but not find me,’ and ‘You cannot go where I am going’?”

A lack of commitment to learning and living the TRUTH results in a lack of...

- desire to do God's will

- discernment for what is right and wrong

- understanding Scripture

-assurance in salvation
]]>

John 7:14-23
Then, midway through the festival, Jesus went up to the Temple and began to teach.The people were surprised when they heard him. “How does he know so much when he hasn’t been trained?” they asked.So Jesus told them, “My message is not my own; it comes from God who sent me.Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own.Those who speak for themselves want glory only for themselves, but a person who seeks to honor the one who sent him speaks truth, not lies.Moses gave you the law, but none of you obeys it! In fact, you are trying to kill me.”The crowd replied, “You’re demon possessed! Who’s trying to kill you?”Jesus replied, “I did one miracle on the Sabbath, and you were amazed.But you work on the Sabbath, too, when you obey Moses’ law of circumcision. (Actually, this tradition of circumcision began with the patriarchs, long before the law of Moses.)For if the correct time for circumcising your son falls on the Sabbath, you go ahead and do it so as not to break the law of Moses. So why should you be angry with me for healing a man on the Sabbath?

John 7:24-33
Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.”Some of the people who lived in Jerusalem started to ask each other, “Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill?But here he is, speaking in public, and they say nothing to him. Could our leaders possibly believe that he is the Messiah?But how could he be? For we know where this man comes from. When the Messiah comes, he will simply appear; no one will know where he comes from.”While Jesus was teaching in the Temple, he called out, “Yes, you know me, and you know where I come from. But I’m not here on my own. The one who sent me is true, and you don’t know him.But I know him because I come from him, and he sent me to you.”Then the leaders tried to arrest him; but no one laid a hand on him, because his time had not yet come.Many among the crowds at the Temple believed in him. “After all,” they said, “would you expect the Messiah to do more miraculous signs than this man has done?”When the Pharisees heard that the crowds were whispering such things, they and the leading priests sent Temple guards to arrest Jesus.But Jesus told them, “I will be with you only a little longer. Then I will return to the one who sent me.

John 7:34-36
You will search for me but not find me. And you cannot go where I am going.”The Jewish leaders were puzzled by this statement. “Where is he planning to go?” they asked. “Is he thinking of leaving the country and going to the Jews in other lands? Maybe he will even teach the Greeks!What does he mean when he says, ‘You will search for me but not find me,’ and ‘You cannot go where I am going’?”

A lack of commitment to learning and living the TRUTH results in a lack of...

- desire to do God's will

- discernment for what is right and wrong

- understanding Scripture

-assurance in salvation
]]>

John 7:14-23
Then, midway through the festival, Jesus went up to the Temple and began to teach.The people were surprised when they heard him. “How does he know so much when he hasn’t been trained?” they asked.So Jesus told them, “My message is not my own; it comes from God who sent me.Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own.Those who speak for themselves want glory only for themselves, but a person who seeks to honor the one who sent him speaks truth, not lies.Moses gave you the law, but none of you obeys it! In fact, you are trying to kill me.”The crowd replied, “You’re demon possessed! Who’s trying to kill you?”Jesus replied, “I did one miracle on the Sabbath, and you were amazed.But you work on the Sabbath, too, when you obey Moses’ law of circumcision. (Actually, this tradition of circumcision began with the patriarchs, long before the law of Moses.)For if the correct time for circumcising your son falls on the Sabbath, you go ahead and do it so as not to break the law of Moses. So why should you be angry with me for healing a man on the Sabbath?

John 7:24-33
Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.”Some of the people who lived in Jerusalem started to ask each other, “Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill?But here he is, speaking in public, and they say nothing to him. Could our leaders possibly believe that he is the Messiah?But how could he be? For we know where this man comes from. When the Messiah comes, he will simply appear; no one will know where he comes from.”While Jesus was teaching in the Temple, he called out, “Yes, you know me, and you know where I come from. But I’m not here on my own. The one who sent me is true, and you don’t know him.But I know him because I come from him, and he sent me to you.”Then the leaders tried to arrest him; but no one laid a hand on him, because his time had not yet come.Many among the crowds at the Temple believed in him. “After all,” they said, “would you expect the Messiah to do more miraculous signs than this man has done?”When the Pharisees heard that the crowds were whispering such things, they and the leading priests sent Temple guards to arrest Jesus.But Jesus told them, “I will be with you only a little longer. Then I will return to the one who sent me.

John 7:34-36
You will search for me but not find me. And you cannot go where I am going.”The Jewish leaders were puzzled by this statement. “Where is he planning to go?” they asked. “Is he thinking of leaving the country and going to the Jews in other lands? Maybe he will even teach the Greeks!What does he mean when he says, ‘You will search for me but not find me,’ and ‘You cannot go where I am going’?”

A lack of commitment to learning and living the TRUTH results in a lack of...

- desire to do God's will

- discernment for what is right and wrong

- understanding Scripture

-assurance in salvation
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part - 12 full podcastepisode_b2c95cd8d248472c82a40fdaf5065f5f Sun, 21 Apr 2024 06:30:00 -0400
John 6:16-24 NLT
16 That evening Jesus’ disciples went down to the shore to wait for him. 17 But as darkness fell and Jesus still hadn’t come back, they got into the boat and headed across the lake toward Capernaum. 18 Soon a gale swept down upon them, and the sea grew very rough. 19 They had rowed three or four miles when suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat. They were terrified, 20 but he called out to them, “Don’t be afraid. I am here!” 21 Then they were eager to let him in the boat, and immediately they arrived at their destination! 22 The next day the crowd that had stayed on the far shore saw that the disciples had taken the only boat, and they realized Jesus had not gone with them. 23 Several boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the Lord had blessed the bread and the people had eaten. 24 So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went across to Capernaum to look for him.

Matthew 14:22-27 NLT
22 Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. 23 After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. 24 Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. 25 About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” 27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!”

Matthew 14:27-33 NLT
27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” 28 Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” 29 “Yes, come,” Jesus said.So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. 31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” 32 When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.

Matthew 14:32-33 NLT
32 When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.

Reasons you should look for the "Water Walker" when you're in a storm...

Maybe Jesus is trying to get your attention

Maybe Jesus wants to build your courage

Maybe Jesus wants to develop your obedience

Maybe Jesus wants to grow your faith
]]>
John 6:16-24 NLT
16 That evening Jesus’ disciples went down to the shore to wait for him. 17 But as darkness fell and Jesus still hadn’t come back, they got into the boat and headed across the lake toward Capernaum. 18 Soon a gale swept down upon them, and the sea grew very rough. 19 They had rowed three or four miles when suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat. They were terrified, 20 but he called out to them, “Don’t be afraid. I am here!” 21 Then they were eager to let him in the boat, and immediately they arrived at their destination! 22 The next day the crowd that had stayed on the far shore saw that the disciples had taken the only boat, and they realized Jesus had not gone with them. 23 Several boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the Lord had blessed the bread and the people had eaten. 24 So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went across to Capernaum to look for him.

Matthew 14:22-27 NLT
22 Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. 23 After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. 24 Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. 25 About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” 27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!”

Matthew 14:27-33 NLT
27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” 28 Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” 29 “Yes, come,” Jesus said.So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. 31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” 32 When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.

Matthew 14:32-33 NLT
32 When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.

Reasons you should look for the "Water Walker" when you're in a storm...

Maybe Jesus is trying to get your attention

Maybe Jesus wants to build your courage

Maybe Jesus wants to develop your obedience

Maybe Jesus wants to grow your faith
]]>
John 6:16-24 NLT
16 That evening Jesus’ disciples went down to the shore to wait for him. 17 But as darkness fell and Jesus still hadn’t come back, they got into the boat and headed across the lake toward Capernaum. 18 Soon a gale swept down upon them, and the sea grew very rough. 19 They had rowed three or four miles when suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat. They were terrified, 20 but he called out to them, “Don’t be afraid. I am here!” 21 Then they were eager to let him in the boat, and immediately they arrived at their destination! 22 The next day the crowd that had stayed on the far shore saw that the disciples had taken the only boat, and they realized Jesus had not gone with them. 23 Several boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the Lord had blessed the bread and the people had eaten. 24 So when the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went across to Capernaum to look for him.

Matthew 14:22-27 NLT
22 Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. 23 After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. 24 Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. 25 About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” 27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!”

Matthew 14:27-33 NLT
27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” 28 Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” 29 “Yes, come,” Jesus said.So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. 31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?” 32 When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.

Matthew 14:32-33 NLT
32 When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 Then the disciples worshiped him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.

Reasons you should look for the "Water Walker" when you're in a storm...

Maybe Jesus is trying to get your attention

Maybe Jesus wants to build your courage

Maybe Jesus wants to develop your obedience

Maybe Jesus wants to grow your faith
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 11 full podcastepisode_05b70c85f1fd4400bf8a59d2dbdd33f1 Sun, 14 Apr 2024 06:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part - 10 full podcastepisode_59d9d2b458a44cf9bca1ed2524d1be87 Sun, 7 Apr 2024 06:30:00 -0400
The Accusation: Is Jesus a lawbreaker and a blasphemer?

The Defense: Jesus is EQUAL with and subordinate to the Father in a perfect relationship of unity.

WHY didn't they believe? WHY couldn't they see who Jesus was?
"When our LOVE is MISPLACED our LIFE is MISGUIDED"

They loved RULES more than they loved God.
They loved POWER AND INFLUENCE more than they loved God.
They love LEARNING INFORMATION ABOUT GOD more than they loved living for God.
They loved APPROVAL OF OTHERS more than they loved the approval of God.
]]>
The Accusation: Is Jesus a lawbreaker and a blasphemer?

The Defense: Jesus is EQUAL with and subordinate to the Father in a perfect relationship of unity.

WHY didn't they believe? WHY couldn't they see who Jesus was?
"When our LOVE is MISPLACED our LIFE is MISGUIDED"

They loved RULES more than they loved God.
They loved POWER AND INFLUENCE more than they loved God.
They love LEARNING INFORMATION ABOUT GOD more than they loved living for God.
They loved APPROVAL OF OTHERS more than they loved the approval of God.
]]>
The Accusation: Is Jesus a lawbreaker and a blasphemer?

The Defense: Jesus is EQUAL with and subordinate to the Father in a perfect relationship of unity.

WHY didn't they believe? WHY couldn't they see who Jesus was?
"When our LOVE is MISPLACED our LIFE is MISGUIDED"

They loved RULES more than they loved God.
They loved POWER AND INFLUENCE more than they loved God.
They love LEARNING INFORMATION ABOUT GOD more than they loved living for God.
They loved APPROVAL OF OTHERS more than they loved the approval of God.
]]> false The Beautiful Empty, Part - 4 full podcastepisode_2cbd74ebd5ce4d5fb7458ca115403c29 Sun, 31 Mar 2024 06:30:00 -0400
John 20:1-2 NLT
1 Early on Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. 2 She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, “They have taken the Lord’s body out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”

John 20:10-15 NLT
10 Then they went home. 11 Mary was standing outside the tomb crying, and as she wept, she stooped and looked in. 12 She saw two white-robed angels, one sitting at the head and the other at the foot of the place where the body of Jesus had been lying. 13 “Dear woman, why are you crying?” the angels asked her.“Because they have taken away my Lord,” she replied, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” 14 She turned to leave and saw someone standing there. It was Jesus, but she didn’t recognize him. 15 “Dear woman, why are you crying?” Jesus asked her. “Who are you looking for?”She thought he was the gardener. “Sir,” she said, “if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him.”

John 20:16-18 NLT
16 “Mary!” Jesus said.She turned to him and cried out, “Rabboni!” (which is Hebrew for “Teacher”). 17 “Don’t cling to me,” Jesus said, “for I haven’t yet ascended to the Father. But go find my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” 18 Mary Magdalene found the disciples and told them, “I have seen the Lord!” Then she gave them his message.

John 1:16 NIV
16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given.

John 3:16 NIV
16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

John 14:16-17 NIV
16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

John 14:26 NIV
26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

Acts 2:1-4 NIV
1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

Acts 10:44-48 NIV
44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” 48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.

Romans 15:13 NLT
13 I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Philippians 1:11 NLT
11 May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God.

Ephesians 1:22-23 NLT
22 God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. 23 And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.

Ephesians 3:19 NLT
19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

Colossians 1:8-9 NLT
8 He has told us about the love for others that the Holy Spirit has given you. 9 So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding.

Colossians 2:9-10 NLT
9 For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. 10 So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.

JESUS FILLS THE EMPTY!
]]>
John 20:1-2 NLT
1 Early on Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. 2 She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, “They have taken the Lord’s body out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”

John 20:10-15 NLT
10 Then they went home. 11 Mary was standing outside the tomb crying, and as she wept, she stooped and looked in. 12 She saw two white-robed angels, one sitting at the head and the other at the foot of the place where the body of Jesus had been lying. 13 “Dear woman, why are you crying?” the angels asked her.“Because they have taken away my Lord,” she replied, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” 14 She turned to leave and saw someone standing there. It was Jesus, but she didn’t recognize him. 15 “Dear woman, why are you crying?” Jesus asked her. “Who are you looking for?”She thought he was the gardener. “Sir,” she said, “if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him.”

John 20:16-18 NLT
16 “Mary!” Jesus said.She turned to him and cried out, “Rabboni!” (which is Hebrew for “Teacher”). 17 “Don’t cling to me,” Jesus said, “for I haven’t yet ascended to the Father. But go find my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” 18 Mary Magdalene found the disciples and told them, “I have seen the Lord!” Then she gave them his message.

John 1:16 NIV
16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given.

John 3:16 NIV
16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

John 14:16-17 NIV
16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

John 14:26 NIV
26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

Acts 2:1-4 NIV
1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

Acts 10:44-48 NIV
44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” 48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.

Romans 15:13 NLT
13 I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Philippians 1:11 NLT
11 May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God.

Ephesians 1:22-23 NLT
22 God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. 23 And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.

Ephesians 3:19 NLT
19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

Colossians 1:8-9 NLT
8 He has told us about the love for others that the Holy Spirit has given you. 9 So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding.

Colossians 2:9-10 NLT
9 For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. 10 So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.

JESUS FILLS THE EMPTY!
]]>
John 20:1-2 NLT
1 Early on Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. 2 She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, “They have taken the Lord’s body out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!”

John 20:10-15 NLT
10 Then they went home. 11 Mary was standing outside the tomb crying, and as she wept, she stooped and looked in. 12 She saw two white-robed angels, one sitting at the head and the other at the foot of the place where the body of Jesus had been lying. 13 “Dear woman, why are you crying?” the angels asked her.“Because they have taken away my Lord,” she replied, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” 14 She turned to leave and saw someone standing there. It was Jesus, but she didn’t recognize him. 15 “Dear woman, why are you crying?” Jesus asked her. “Who are you looking for?”She thought he was the gardener. “Sir,” she said, “if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him.”

John 20:16-18 NLT
16 “Mary!” Jesus said.She turned to him and cried out, “Rabboni!” (which is Hebrew for “Teacher”). 17 “Don’t cling to me,” Jesus said, “for I haven’t yet ascended to the Father. But go find my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” 18 Mary Magdalene found the disciples and told them, “I have seen the Lord!” Then she gave them his message.

John 1:16 NIV
16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given.

John 3:16 NIV
16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

John 14:16-17 NIV
16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

John 14:26 NIV
26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

Acts 2:1-4 NIV
1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

Acts 10:44-48 NIV
44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” 48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.

Romans 15:13 NLT
13 I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Philippians 1:11 NLT
11 May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God.

Ephesians 1:22-23 NLT
22 God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. 23 And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.

Ephesians 3:19 NLT
19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

Colossians 1:8-9 NLT
8 He has told us about the love for others that the Holy Spirit has given you. 9 So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding.

Colossians 2:9-10 NLT
9 For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. 10 So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.

JESUS FILLS THE EMPTY!
]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 7 full sermon_867124c8678751aa833a805dcf7af12e Sun, 11 Feb 2024 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 8 full sermon_b3b34e50853a5b938ce2a2d8ce9fe170 Sun, 25 Feb 2024 05:30:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John, Part 5 full sermon_2f6a2593b04554668915fb9e978abd9f Mon, 5 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Gratitude full sermon_c9cadec2f41f5afb842f50c7905196a0 Sun, 19 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John - Part 3 full sermon_3b9282e44c09550cad634bd53cc38f6d Sun, 21 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John - Part 3 full sermon_3b9282e44c09550cad634bd53cc38f6d Sun, 21 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John Part 2 full sermon_1e0a4770e37152e4a47cd308879cc535 Sun, 14 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Who is Jesus? The Gospel of John Part 4 full sermon_8fa9e17b655253efa6d1a122c39218ee Sun, 28 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false New Year 2024 Sermon full sermon_638fcac681eb555dadef9cdeccbc09e0 Sun, 31 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Songs of the Savior, What Child Is This full sermon_33b14fe9d9f25296a699fa3a3995d666 Mon, 18 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Majoring on the Minors, Nahum full sermon_5196c9b7a994599d91fe002640080561 Sun, 22 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Songs of the Savior - "Joy to the World" full sermon_5276f718d9ab5f93891a485083c10408 Mon, 27 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Majoring on the Minors, Jonah, Part 3 full sermon_6765e16eb8315293a1e623eab94caaa8 Sun, 24 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Majoring on the Minors, Jonah, Part 4 full sermon_8cd4ed53e82a5c96841a0ef2fdd3b5ae Sun, 1 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Songs of the Savior, Oh Come all Ye Faithful full sermon_36079a1203205e0db70afb9f07350adf Sun, 10 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Majoring on the Minors, Obadiah full sermon_0e3f71a4ab14594f8df303722eb5e54a Sun, 15 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Contentment full sermon_5e4b1b9de1d55cafbf64eb4836747a87 Mon, 6 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Hope full sermon_8a7549bf0e3a50be803c6cc1d2d7708c Sun, 12 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Miracles, Part - 1, Praying for and Waiting for a Miracle full sermon_355c2bcc62b15428acc4c5b3bcfb3436 Mon, 7 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Miracles, Part - 2, Magic Formula or Divine Equation? full sermon_fec5bac52d5e5597a5163c082959b748 Sun, 13 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Majoring on the Minors, Jonah, Part 5 full sermon_f9aaf061398050c8824486d4947594d3 Sun, 8 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Choosing Joy full sermon_7f264cfb9f775022a247982162171d63 Mon, 30 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Majoring on the Minors, Jonah, Part 2 full sermon_fb422289d49d5b3286a0615124c109d7 Mon, 18 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Miracles, Part - 4, The Gospel Miracle full sermon_94ccf7dda2ef5225b2e60f0aa6097c83 Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Songs of the Savior, Silent Night full sermon_a8b116e5502752038a5a3a828ed4c96b Sun, 24 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Save The Date, A Sermon Series About Marriage, Part - 5 full sermon_98c8afb89eef5bdf8db3ce8e1faa39d8 Sun, 30 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Save The Date, A Sermon Series About Marriage - 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Part 1 full sermon_a235c4e3cd945ff09ddc7898cf8bc8b5 Sun, 5 Jun 2022 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Last Words of Christ - Part 6 full sermon_f817b8a2b83053809afd54e9d8222063 Sun, 10 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Seven Churches - Part 2 full sermon_48d7393e3b91577a9577d8555465f8d2 Sun, 12 Jun 2022 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Emotions - Part 4 full sermon_25d44fea6cdd5580bf1827b0a5dfb931 Sun, 22 May 2022 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Last Words of Christ - Part 3 full sermon_3ad8212328b25d13b6670069ed7b8fe1 Sun, 20 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Last Words of Christ - Part 5 full sermon_94958767a39e5057822b9c0ab9dc43a2 Sun, 3 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Seven Churches - Part 3 full sermon_dc81efb89ada5aef80de29f7518d51d4 Sun, 19 Jun 2022 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Christian Patriot full sermon_8b24ffdd2dfb5b26a3db8a47332c557f Sun, 29 May 2022 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Emotions - Part 1 full sermon_7d457dffb943568795d4d7454f62b2e9 Sun, 1 May 2022 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false A Better Way - Part 4 full sermon_4e036e33d76852f7828b84c35e41ee76 Sun, 23 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Big Lie -Part 2 full sermon_262659c2f1305444b56d6c4cd662622b Sun, 13 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Glory of Christmas - Part 4 full sermon_15b1d92dc9205bf9ae592942bd591b00 Sun, 26 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Last Words of Christ - Part 2 full sermon_066d689bc7915685bbb1b679ad82ffe9 Sun, 13 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false A Better Way - Part 3 full sermon_59c5211813da59c38931810baf1c2780 Sun, 16 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Glory of Christmas - Part 3 full sermon_9a1f8dd4e079504baf9c2611aad7b702 Sun, 19 Dec 2021 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Big Lie - Part 1 full sermon_6436f3e2845157458e21cdb8cf4bff4d Sun, 6 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false A Better Way - Part 2 full sermon_ae4a6ff7554b57a6807b1aa93d9cc2c3 Sun, 9 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false A Better Way - Part 1 full sermon_718004c040a3556b8b1490d30a664a9e Sun, 2 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false A Better Way - 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Part 1 full sermon_6986418e8c315a05b43dfffd7d2d05eb Sun, 7 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Shadow King - Part 3 full sermon_7a06557915ad52a6ac007902484b4770 Sun, 21 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Believe - Part 4 full sermon_b6a338c38c015d868557732482904f7e Sun, 28 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Fool's Path - Part 3 full sermon_857a4ed87e355c828f271f2a1536aad1 Sun, 17 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false Believe - Part 1 full sermon_6333e0561bc75c0f8ddb4f356891f11a Sun, 7 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Fool's Path - Part 1 full sermon_96011b802de75fd19a0c6497b6327411 Sun, 3 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Shadow King - Part 2 full sermon_78f60d824ddd5ba18aeab716deb0f5ea Sun, 14 Feb 2021 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false The Fool's Path - Part 2 full sermon_fb63558b2677597e9fa21436aa6d8422 Sun, 10 Jan 2021 04:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false 1 Thessalonians - Part 1 full sermon_518cf87aae1658aba62de1dce8c7fd93 Sun, 11 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0400 ]]> ]]> ]]> false God With Us - 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