Come To The Table is the radio Bible teaching ministry of Mark Kirk, Senior Pastor of Calvary Knoxville, a non-denominational Christian Church located in Knoxville, TN. https://www.pastormarkkirk.com

What does it look like when a nation faces God's judgment? In today's message, Pastor Mark draws parallels between Isaiah's time and America today. Just as Israel faced consequences for straying, America may be entering a season of divine judgment. These signs aren't hidden; they stand out clearly. God's judgment isn't about destruction but a call to turn back to Him. His correction aims to restore, not condemn. God can guide a nation or a heart back to righteousness. Facing judgment means facing His love, too. Staying faithful in such times keeps you anchored. How do you hold onto faith when judgment is near?

Sharing faith can be like planting seeds in a garden you may never see bloom. In today's message, Pastor Mark reminds us that people coming to the Lord isn't a simple process. It could be years of prayers, conversations, and seeds planted by many. One plants, another waters, and someone else reaps the harvest. When you share the gospel, you might plant a seed, water it, or see someone ready to receive the Lord. That's God's call, not yours. God can work through your efforts when they're guided by the Holy Spirit. Your job is to share and trust Him with the outcome. How do you stay faithful in planting seeds of faith?

Understanding Jesus is like piecing together a mosaic; every part matters. Today, Pastor Mark emphasizes that the Old Testament reveals the fullness of Jesus in the New Testament. You need the whole Bible to be a whole Christian. Leaving out any part of Scripture is like leaving out part of Jesus Himself. Some might say they doubt portions of the Bible, but that's questioning Jesus, the living Word. Every page points to Him, shaping a complete faith. God can open your eyes to see Jesus across all Scripture, not just the parts with His physical body. Choosing the whole Bible means choosing all of Jesus.

What can grow from the ashes of a shattered life? In today's message, Pastor Mark shares how God turned an island's ruin from a volcanic explosion into beauty. Your life might feel like it's exploded, leaving nothing but destruction. But God can take those very ashes and transform them into something amazing. You may think there's no way for restoration. But the ruin you see isn't the end; it's where God's work can begin. Like a master artist, He reshapes brokenness into beauty beyond your imagination. Trusting Him turns despair into hope. Do you see God working through your life's ruins to create something new?

Faith is like an anchor holding steady in a blinding storm. Today, Pastor Mark paints a vivid picture of Paul's ordeal, lost in a storm so fierce it blocked sight for 14 days. Panic set in; they tossed essential gear just to survive, fearing for their lives. Yet, even in that chaos, Paul was in the safest place - God's will. When you're where God calls you, no storm can destroy you. God can keep you secure, even when fear screams otherwise. It's not about calm seas but trusting His purpose in the tempest. His plan holds you through the worst. How do you find peace in God's will when life's storms rage around you?

What do you hold onto when hope feels out of reach? In today's message, Pastor Mark reflects on Paul's story, where even strong believers like Luke lost hope in a storm. Even the greatest men and women of faith have faced doubt. David himself pleaded, Lord, remember I'm only dust. God knows your weaknesses and hears you in your struggle. There's no shame in faltering; it's about turning back to Him. God can meet you in your doubt, strengthening your faith when you cry, “Help my unbelief.” You might be small, but you're still seen by Him. How do you turn to God when doubt creeps in?

Life can feel like a storm, scattering pieces of your world like a shipwreck. Today, Pastor Mark speaks to those feeling broken or tempted toward dangerous waters. If your life's in pieces, there's hope to rebuild through prayer. If the enemy's luring you, now's the time to turn back. Temptation always leads to storms. God can guide you to safer shores, away from destruction. Don't let the pull of excitement steer you wrong. His strength helps you reset your course. Believers fall when they ignore the warning; turn back to Him. What steps can you take to help steer clear of temptation's dangerous and often enticing pull?

I've heard it said that “close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades,” and I can't help but think of that here as well. God hasn't called us to a “partial repentance” or a half-hearted trust in the work of Christ on the Cross. Salvation is an all-or-nothing commitment, and there are many people who just don't get it.

There are arguments made against the validity of the Bible constantly. This is not a new “field of study” created by modern intellectuals, but has, in fact, existed since the resurrection of Jesus! When the disciples first started building the Church, there were immediately challenges made to the validity of their claims! We must remember that all of the knowledge in the world won't convince someone to come to a personal relationship with Jesus. It almost is never an intellectual issue, but rather a heart issue. In today's message, pastor Mark will break down this idea, going further with how we can apply this to our lives today.

I think it's so beautiful that God designed people with such precision and intent. Mothers can recognize the cry of their baby amongst others, and children, even in the womb, will recognize their mother's voice. As someone who has not had children yet, I know I would struggle to recognize the cry of one kid in a group! In today's word, pastor Mark teaches how God speaks with intent to each of us in different moments. We may choose whether or not we listen to what God has to share with us, but we should be aware that He is always speaking to us in some manner. Consider how you might pay attention to His voice today.

The American South is known for a lot of things, some good and some bad. “The Bible Belt” encompasses a bit of both. Many folks grew up in and around churches, if they grew up in this region, which is great, if you consider that they had exposure to the Bible! However, exposure is not indicative of a saving faith. Growing up in the United States, I understand the “cultural Christianity” that is so prevalent in this nation. In today's message, pastor Mark addresses this phenomenon and warns that we ought not to settle for this simple or weak idea of Christianity, but we ought to press deeper and look for genuine faith.

The Bible says, “Spare the rod, spoil the child.” While this passage addresses parenting specifically, it's visible how consequences for actions can help train up both individuals and societies to be well-mannered and cooperative. The lack of these consequences, however, often leads to chaos and destruction. In today's message, pastor Mark highlights how, despite his innocence, Paul was willing to submit himself to a full trial and inspection before multiple governing bodies and authorities. May this message encourage us to live lives that are able to be laid before others so that they may see the grace and glory of God.

“Why” is well known to be a child's favorite question. Why is the sky blue? Why do dogs bark? Why do I have to go to bed? If you're a parent, you're most certainly well acquainted with this question! But do not be fooled! This question is not a bad thing, but rather it's use expresses a desire to know and to learn more! In today's message, pastor Mark teaches how Paul's suffering and imprisonment, while he likely did not understand at the time, was used for the glory of God's Kingdom. Paul likely asked “why” to God many times throughout the trials he walked endured. But more importantly, he trusted God through it all.

Misinterpretation is a common form of miscommunication in many relationships today. More often than not, it is unintentional, but it can lead to great harm in many cases if not addressed and corrected quickly. Whether it's business, legal jargon, or even in personal relationships, it's important to have understanding. Today in his message, pastor Mark explains the importance of correct interpretation when it comes to the Bible. There are many points throughout history where the Bible is misinterpreted, for one reason or another, and it often creates big problems! Listen closely for the importance of reading what is written for us!

I once attempted to “butter up” my parents to convince them to allow me to buy a PlayStation. I did extra chores around the house, I helped my sisters with their tasks, and I even spent time studying for upcoming exams! My efforts became more obvious when I tried to flatter my parents more openly and blatantly. The Bible warns against flattery, and in today's message, pastor Mark does the same, noting how flattery not only can distract, but may also detract from the words one has to share. Keep in mind the sincerity of your speech to others and how you go about speaking in your day-to-day interactions.

Living for God's glory means letting His character shape every corner of your life—work done with integrity, conversations seasoned with grace, resources stewarded generously, and decisions guided by prayer. It's choosing obedience over convenience, service over spotlight, and patience over pressure. Celebrate others, confess quickly, forgive freely, and pursue excellence as worship. And in today's message, Pastor Mark will encourage you to resolve to begin where you are: one wholehearted yes at a time, so ordinary moments become a bright reflection of God's holy character in you.

Setbacks feel like dead ends, but in God's hands, they become construction zones for His purpose. Delays deepen dependence, detours reveal gifts, and disappointments refine motives. He weaves lessons into compassion for others, credibility into your story, and resilience into your faith. What might've looked like a loss becomes a launchpad for God's glory and others' good. And in today's message, Pastor Mark will remind you to bring God every closed door and unanswered prayer—You can ask God to open your eyes to the opportunities that He wants to put before you!

God is calling you to share the gospel regardless of the result—applause, silence, questions, or even rejection. Your role is faithfulness; God handles fruit. Speak with humility, love, and clarity; listen well, pray boldly, and leave outcomes in His hands. Seeds sown today may bloom years from now. Risk the awkward moment for someone's salvation. And in today's message, Pastor Mark will encourage your resolve to say yes: open your mouth, open your schedule, open your home—And let Jesus' good news travel through your ordinary life. You never know what soil the seeds you sow might land on!

In today's message, Pastor Mark will remind you that when Jesus changes your heart, old appetites lose their shine. What once felt thrilling now feels thin; shortcuts seem empty, and habits that numbed you no longer fit your new life. His love rewrites desires, and peace replaces the rush. Friend groups, entertainment, and routines shift as purpose deepens and joy grows clean. And in today's message, don't mourn what's fading—celebrate it. Lean into new rhythms, healthier boundaries, and holy ambitions that align with who you're becoming in Christ Jesus.

Satan's accusations are like a relentless storm, pounding you with guilt day and night. In today's message, Pastor Mark describes how the enemy accuses you constantly, sometimes with truths about your failings, other times with lies. But the good news is that Jesus covers every wrong with His blood. As a believer, your sins are forgiven when you repent, and false accusations fall powerless. You're shielded by Christ's sacrifice, no matter what the enemy claims. Blood speaks louder than any accusation. You stand secured in His grace. Are you resting in Christ's blood to silence Satan's accusations against you?

Fearlessness in Christ is like a bird soaring freely, unburdened by the weight of death. In today's message, Pastor Mark conveys how trusting God removes the fear of dying, granting you true freedom. You might naturally wrestle with fears about the future, wondering what lies ahead. But if you fully trust God, everything changes. You're not rushing to die, obviously. But you're not afraid of death either. This confidence liberates you from anxiety's grip. You can live boldly, resting in His plan daily. His sovereignty covers every moment. Are you trusting God's control to free you from ever being overcome with fear of the future?

God's voice can be like a whisper tailored to your heart, cutting through life's noise. In today's message, Pastor Mark reveals how God sometimes speaks the future to believers, delivering specific words that come true undeniably. Other times, as you spend time in Scripture, God might speak directly to your situation. You might hear a detailed prophecy, a clear supernatural act. Or, perhaps you'll just get more out of a certain passage than before. You can experience His guidance in real-time. His truth meets you exactly where you are. Are you listening for God speaking personally to your heart through His Word?

The Holy Spirit is like a light piercing the deepest darkness, revealing truth to blinded hearts. In today's message, Pastor Mark explains how many Jews turned away as Gentiles embraced the gospel, fulfilling God's foretold spiritual blinding. Paul tried reaching them, but human effort alone wasn't enough. You might see family or friends today who don't know the Lord. Only the Holy Spirit can open their eyes to see and hear the truth. If you're seeking God yourself, you need His Spirit to reveal Him. You're called to pray for that divine touch. Are you asking the Holy Spirit to open the eyes of your loved ones to the truth?

Christian fellowship is like iron sharpening iron, refining you through mutual love and growth. In today's message, Pastor Mark describes how Paul's example in Ephesus showed pastors a life beyond reproach, seeking no personal gain. You see his heart poured into them, modeling Christ's love. Paul's time with the Ephesians built a bond of shared faith, encouraging growth in God's ways. You're called to live as an example for Christ, not perfectly, but authentically, where you are. It's intimidating, but you don't need to be flawless to reflect Him. Your life can inspire others every single day!

A wounded believer is like a soldier fallen on a battlefield, needing care no matter the cause. In today's message, Pastor Mark explains how some can be struck down by attacks from the enemy. But your role isn't to judge; it's instead to restore and bandage their wounds, no matter what the wound is from. When divisions arise in churches, people may get upset and leave. Once they're gone, it's hard for anyone to minister to them. You're called to help heal these rifts, not widen them. God's heart seeks restoration for the hurting. Are you seeking to restore those wounded by division or conflict in the church?

Leadership can often be like a shepherd guarding a struggling sheep. In today's message, Pastor Mark unveils how those who rise up among you, causing trouble, often have many friends. Church leaders might know details you don't, choosing to protect the person, as Jesus did with Judas, giving space for repentance. When leaders hold back, some suspect they're hiding something. This can lead friends of the troublemakers to pull others away, risking a group's downfall. You see how delicate this balance is. God's heart seeks restoration, not shame. Are you trusting godly leaders to handle issues with wisdom?

Jesus' mercy is like a door held open, even for those who betray Him. In today's message, Pastor Mark reveals how Jesus still called Judas “friend” in the garden. You might think His words were sarcastic, but they carried genuine compassion. Jesus knew the cross was His path, whether Judas betrayed Him or not. Jesus' plan was set, yet He offered Judas a chance to repent, even at that final moment. You see His heart longing for redemption, not judgment. His grace extends to the worst moments. You're never too far gone for His mercy. Are you trusting Jesus' offer, no matter how far you've strayed?

God's truth is like a deep well, offering endless wisdom for your journey. In today's message, Pastor Mark unveils how Paul spent years teaching, pouring over 1,500 hours into the Ephesians to equip them thoroughly. You might think he covered every topic, but Paul focused on what mattered most for leaders. Paul's greatest lesson wasn't just words; it was his life. He urged others to imitate him as he imitated Christ. You're called to follow faithful lives that reflect Jesus. You grow by seeking to mirror those who mirror Christ. Are you imitating Christ's example as seen in those who faithfully follow Him?

When you think of suffering, does anything good come to mind? In today's message, Pastor Mark will point out that sometimes what you need to go through in your walk with The Lord is suffering. Not because of something you did to deserve it, but to bring you to a place of dependence on God to get you through it. It's important to look for God's guidance and wisdom in hard times and in the good times. The suffering you go through is an opportunity to grow closer to God and to trust Him more. There's nothing that can come against you that God isn't powerful enough to get you through. You have to keep your heart on Him.

Once you give your life to Christ and commit to following God, you're called to much more than just salvation. You're called to serve! Serve fellow believers in the church, serve your family and friends around you, and serve with the joy of The Lord! It's your relationship with God bearing fruit in your life. It's important to always ask God what He wants you to do next for ministry. Today, Pastor Mark will encourage you to never stop growing in your relationship with God and to never stop serving Him with whatever you have. God wants to move through the lives of those who are faithful to do His will.

Paul knew the importance of telling the Ephesians the things he had on his heart about Jesus. They needed to hear about Jesus again and be moved in their faith. When Paul saw the need, he stayed up all day and night teaching them and ministering to them. God gave him the ability, and he was faithful to use it. It's important to serve where you know it's needed and where you know that God is calling you to. Pastor Mark wants you to know today that God will provide all your needs while you're following Him. No human can comprehend all that's possible when God's working through you, and it requires you to trust God to do it.

If you heard God calling you to do a work in ministry, right now, would you go? Would you ask questions first to know exactly what's going to happen? Or would you just go and trust God to work out the details along the way? He wants to work through you, but you have to be obedient when He finally calls you. In today's message, Pastor Mark is going to explain how you need to be ready to go where God calls you in the moment God calls you to do it. You never know the impact you could have on the world around you when you're following God's plan. Trust Him to work it out in the end, and just go. Take action when He calls.

God can use you to change the environment around you. It might just be your family, but it could also be your entire city or state! Are you ready to move when God calls you? God's Spirit in you is stronger than the power of anything that stands against you. When God sees you commit to Him, He'll move through you. As you'll get to see in today's message with Pastor Mark, God can use anyone to change the hearts of the people of an area. He just needs you to be sold out on serving Him and to be faithful to go when He calls you. You'll never have to do it alone, but God won't use you if you're not willing to go when the time comes.

God is always in control. Sin will always be in the world, just like it always has been. Sometimes it might be hard to resist the temptation of sin. But in God, there's strength to get through those times. In God, you have a hope for eternity. He holds the world in His hands and can bring you through all that you face. Today, Pastor Mark will remind you to trust in God through the newest trends in culture. When the world tries to take your focus off of God, remember that He is in control. You have to trust Him that He'll get you through anything and put your life in His hands. He can do great things through someone who's surrendered to Him.

Following God isn't guaranteed to be easy. Oftentimes, it's quite the opposite. There's a cost to following God, and that's doing what He wants for your life instead of following your earthly pleasures. As Pastor Mark will show you in today's message, it's important to keep your commitment to God to enjoy the life He has for you. When temptations become strong and when it's hard to follow God's will, you can find rest in God. He'll provide all you need to face what you're up against. Just turn your face back to Him and ask, and keep away from sin. When you let God have His way, He can do amazing things you never could imagine through your life.

Once you give your life to Christ, it should look different. People should notice something different about you. The faith you have is meant to be shared with as many people as you can reach. Everywhere you go is an opportunity to reach more people for Christ. Is He alive in your heart and reaching people through you? The way you live should attract people to the same hope you have. How you live your life is a ministry itself! Today, Pastor Mark will encourage you to be bold in declaring your faith. Be bold in talking to others about what's different about you. You never know who it might touch or lead to Christ.

What does it mean to be a believer and to be filled with the Holy Spirit? In today's message, Pastor Mark explains the simplicity of these truths. He states that to become a Christian, one only needs to admit they are a sinner and believe in Jesus as Savior. The Holy Spirit is in every believer at the moment of salvation. Many do not experience the power of the Holy Spirit because they have not embraced discipleship. You can become a believer without being discipled. To be a disciple of Christ, one must engage in prayer, study the Bible, and practice daily self-denial. This allows the Holy Spirit to have greater power in your life.

God not only saves us for His Kingdom work but also provides the Holy Spirit to equip us for the Christian life. In today's message, Pastor Mark shares three key functions of the Holy Spirit that we receive at Salvation. He explains that the Holy Spirit is within us, walks alongside us, and empowers us. When we are saved, the Holy Spirit immediately indwells us. We are sealed and secure by His continued presence. The Holy Spirit also walks with us, helping us understand scripture and giving guidance and direction for our lives. We are also given the power to witness and overcome sin through the Holy Spirit.

Is it permissible for Jews who have been converted to retain their Jewish customs? Is it acceptable for Christians to participate in Jewish events or ceremonies? In his message today, Pastor Mark addresses these activities and explains when they become an obstacle and the parameters of this freedom. Engaging with another person's culture can enhance our understanding of non-believers and make sharing the Gospel more effective. For a Jew, being open to the Gospel can be easier when they don't feel compelled to abandon their Jewish cultural practices. These customs do not play a role in our salvation.

There is a barrier of unbelief that prevents people from knowing and experiencing Christ. Only God can remove these obstacles that hinder individuals from receiving Him. In his message today, Pastor Mark discusses how God uses everyday people to help break down these invisible barriers that separate us from God. Pastor Mark emphasizes that nothing is more powerful than Christ's love. People are drawn to Christ by various means. As they overcome any fear they may have, and we continue to share God's love with them, they will see the difference in our lives that knowing Christ has made and desire to follow Him as a result.

There are moments when God's provision confirms your calling. Today, Pastor Mark shares a personal testimony of God's provision during his early ministry. Throughout scripture, whenever God calls someone, He also provides for them. This truth remains valid today: wherever God guides, He provides. Paul was a tent maker in addition to being a missionary. Often, God calls ministers to work in secular jobs while they serve the church. Although this can be challenging, God uses these experiences as teaching moments. He reminds us every day to rely on Him completely and to patiently wait for His provision.

Are you waiting until you feel more knowledgeable about the Scriptures before you begin witnessing? In today's message, Pastor Mark addresses this way of thinking and highlights its fallacy. He reminds us that the gospel is simple to share. It is not dependent on your intellect and your persuasive speech. The apostle Paul tried to convert the leaders of Athens using reason and intellect. Later, he said to share the message of Christ and the cross simply. A person only needs to understand that they are sinners, realize that Christ died for their sins, and believe in Him as their Savior and Lord, to obtain salvation.

How handy are you? Can you patch drywall? Swap out a dead outlet? Do you know how to frame out a door? One of the most essential skills for any homeowner to know is how to repair a leak. As any plumber knows, the first step to stopping a leak is turning off the supply, preventing water from hindering the repair. In today's message, Pastor Mark teaches that the most practical way to fix a leaky spiritual life and feel the presence and power of God is to first slow the leak. If sin keeps flowing out of your heart, it just makes it that much harder to fix. Today, choose repentance and turn from the sins that keep you stuck where you are.

Behind every immaculately trimmed lawn and hidden trash can in the city's finest subdivision is a wonderful thing called an HOA covenant. They keep cars from parking on the street and make sure all house modifications fit the theme of the neighborhood, but they sure keep things looking great! Today, Pastor Mark teaches that many believers treat tithing like paying HOA dues and expect church membership to keep them looking nice on the inside. However, the reality is that the outside of your house can look clean while the inside is a mess. Only a relationship with Jesus can get your house in order.

It's so easy to take our food for granted. If you think about the quickest meal you can probably get – a McDonald's cheeseburger – consider how long it took to be created. The cow for the patty had to grow for several years, as did the wheat for the bun. The lettuce, tomato, and onion didn't just appear overnight! In today's message, Pastor Mark isn't talking about burgers, but he will teach you that spiritual growth takes time. As seeds are planted and watered, one day, enough spiritual formation happens that the results are completely unrecognizable from the initial seed. Transformation is a slow, daily process.

In society, there are all kinds of false gods and idols. Whether it's social justice issues, sports, food, or social media… all of them can become gods that separate us from the one true God. They creep in and steal our attention, drawing us away from Jesus. It's often said that if the devil can't get your heart, he will make you busy. In today's message, Pastor Mark teaches that Paul sets an example for all of us. He didn't just sit idly by while these things captured the heart of those around him. He stood up boldly and challenged people to turn to God. Will you follow suit? Will you stand firm in your faith and point people towards Jesus?

People used to walk miles…not steps, not just to the other room, but miles just to read the Word of God and fact-check what they heard to what God said. That is unheard of in today's society. More often than not, people just take what they hear and either forget about it or take it with the accountability of a person. In today's message, Pastor Mark will challenge you…how often do you read your Bible? At what lengths are you willing to go to just to make sure you are in right standing with God? Do you spend more time on your phone than you do in the Bible? You can take that step today, make being in the Scripture your #1 priority!

God works in ways that are incomprehensible to our minds. But He gave us His word, the living Bible, to be able to understand a sliver of what He has done, is doing, and even will do! The Bible is a way for us to accept the unknown and learn to trust God because He has proven trustworthy over and over again! In today's message, Pastor Mark will invite you to fact-check everything you come across in the Bible. Whether you're making a simple choice or receiving advice or guidance from pastors, check if it aligns with what God has clearly said and stated in HIS Word! The Bible is applicable today…use it!!!

Whether you're already a Christian or still on the fence, God has amazing things in store for you! Look to God in awe, in patient expectation of what He IS going to do in your life, and He will show up! Simply keeping your eyes on the Lord and trusting He has complete control over your life will bring rest! In today's message, Pastor Mark will encourage you to worship, to focus on the good God has done in the trial! While you wait for the storm to pass, worship the Lord! It can be difficult to center yourself and trust God while everything is going wrong. But God is faithful, and He will be with you through your storm!

No matter what it is we may be facing, whether anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts, worship is our best option. Worship will always be our way out of darkness and a winning weapon against the devil. Praising God even in our struggles will literally drive satan away in fear of who our God is! In today's message, Pastor Mark will recognize that stress, anxiety, and depression are all very real aspects of the human experience. But you serve a gracious and powerful God that the devil fears. Acknowledge the goodness of God and thank Him in the midst of your suffering, and watch the devil flee!!!

It's almost unthinkable to sing, to praise God, to worship in the midst of our suffering. Life can be really hard sometimes. It was really hard for Paul and Silas, and yet they found the strength to thank God with their voices, despite their circumstances. Despite the agony they were experiencing. In today's message, Pastor Mark will show you how God is that strength. God is your strength when you are hanging on by a thread. Maybe that's you today, maybe you need a miracle, you need supernatural power to continue on..God will be that. God is for you and He is with you, ready to comfort and support you in all areas!