Welcome to Daily Verse by Verse Bible Study where my name is not important, but the name of Jesus Christ is. We study the bible verse by verse, observing the text, interpreting the meaning, and applying it to our lives. It’s important and biblical that you study the whole counsel of God, that you be ready in season and out of season, that you Go and make disciples, and that you be diligent to present yourself approved to God, and that you rightly divide the word of truth. Let's do life together. Cover art photo provided by Ben White on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/@benwhitephotography
Are you buried in debt—not financial, but spiritual? The good news is that Jesus paid it all. In this powerful and grace-filled conclusion to the book of Philemon, Pastor Mike Massey teaches verses 17–25 in our Daily Verse By Verse Christian podcast, reminding us that the debt of sin we owe has already been paid in full by Jesus Christ. This 10-minute daily Bible study helps listeners experience God's love, apply God's Word, and grow in biblical understanding—one verse at a time.In these final verses, we see the Apostle Paul pleading with Philemon to accept Onesimus, a runaway slave who has come to faith in Christ, not as a slave, but as a beloved brother in the Lord. Paul writes, “If you count me as a partner, receive him as you would me.” This powerful statement mirrors the heart of the gospel: Jesus stands in our place, and we are received by the Father as if we were Christ Himself—because of His righteousness, not ours.
When tragedy strikes, how do we respond? The recent devastating floods in Kerrville, Hunt, and Camp Mystic, Texas have left communities shaken—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Some are grieving, some are angry, and others are more alert than ever to the brevity and fragility of life. In today's special episode of the Daily Verse by Verse Christian podcast, Pastor Mike Massey speaks into the heart of the storm with the unchanging hope of God's love and God's Word.
12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #9 of 12.Here are bullet points highlighting why over 30 extra-biblical sources confirming Jesus are so significant:Independent verification: Non-Christian historians and writers — even enemies of Christianity — recorded details about Jesus, confirming He was a real person.Affirms crucifixion: Roman and Jewish sources, including Tacitus and the Talmud, clearly state Jesus was executed by crucifixion, matching the Gospel accounts.Resurrection claims acknowledged: These writers noted that Jesus' followers believed He rose from the dead — showing this was not a legend invented centuries later.Josephus' record: The Jewish historian Flavius Josephus (first century) wrote about Jesus as a wise teacher who was crucified under Pilate.Roman acknowledgment: Tiberius Caesar's era records, and references by Tacitus, confirm Christianity spread rapidly in Rome after Jesus' death.Confirms the Bible's trustworthiness: These external sources support what the New Testament already claims about Jesus' life, death, and the belief in His resurrection.
12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #8 of 12.Here are bullet points on why it's powerful that there are over 20,000 archaeological discoveries supporting the Bible:Confirms historical accuracy: Archaeology verifies names, places, and events recorded in Scripture.Silences critics: Many who claimed the Bible was myth have been proven wrong by these finds.Validates real people and places: From ancient kings to everyday towns, archaeology supports their existence as described in the Bible.Supports eyewitness reliability: Shows that biblical authors were recording real history, not legends.Strengthens trust: Physical evidence backs up what the Bible has said all along, reinforcing its truth and reliability.Here are two powerful archaeological examples that silenced skeptics:The HittitesSkeptics once claimed the Hittites mentioned in the Old Testament were fictional, because there was no evidence they ever existed.In the early 1900s, archaeologists uncovered Hittite capital cities and thousands of Hittite records in modern-day Turkey, fully confirming their existence and advanced civilization — exactly as the Bible described.Pontius Pilate inscriptionSome scholars doubted whether Pontius Pilate, who sentenced Jesus to death, was a real historical figure.In 1961, archaeologists found a stone in Caesarea Maritima with an inscription naming Pontius Pilate as “Prefect of Judea,” confirming his historical existence just as recorded in the Gospels.
12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #7 of 12.Here are bullet points on why it's so significant that there are over 24,000 manuscripts of the New Testament:Unmatched manuscript evidence: No other ancient document comes close to this level of preservation and verification.Textual reliability: With so many copies to compare, scholars can confidently reconstruct the original text with incredible accuracy.Proof of careful transmission: Shows that early Christians were committed to preserving and passing on God's Word faithfully.Eliminates doubt: The sheer volume of manuscripts leaves no room for the idea that the Bible was changed or corrupted over time.Historically credible: Provides more historical support than any other ancient writing, confirming the Bible's authenticity.
Pastor Mike Massey dedicates this episode to those affected by the Kerrville and Camp Mystic tragedies, acknowledging the deep pain and grief while reminding listeners that thousands, even millions, are praying for them. He encourages the hurting to know that God is still in control, even when circumstances seem unbearable, and that God's love surrounds them.Pastor Mike shares his own story of loss, having lost a daughter and a son, and how God used Philippians 4:6–7 to bring him peace: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything 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 minds in Christ Jesus.” He emphasizes that while scars remain, God can fill the holes in our hearts and give us hope of reunion in heaven, where there is no more pain or tears.He reminds believers that tragedies often shift our focus from earthly worries to what truly matters: relationships, faith, and eternity. In the Bible, Job's friends tried to place blame, but true comfort came in simply being present. Likewise, Pastor Mike urges us to love on those who are hurting with no magic words—just prayer, presence, and support.Referencing the book A Future and a Hope by John Corson, who also experienced profound loss, Pastor Mike highlights how pressing into Jesus rather than turning away in pain leads to healing. He cautions against shaking a fist at God in anger, reminding us that Jesus is there with open arms, ready to love and heal.He also challenges listeners to consider whether they are truly reborn in Christ or simply “churched but not changed.” Pastor Mike describes his own transformation at age 33, moving from a casual faith to a real, saving relationship with Jesus. He urges anyone listening who has not been reborn spiritually to make today the day of salvation, quoting Romans 10:9: “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”As he closes, Pastor Mike calls for forgiveness toward those who might be blamed for tragedies, warning that bitterness and unforgiveness can lead to broken relationships and personal destruction. He encourages everyone to follow God's example of forgiveness.Pastor Mike shares how this tragedy hits close to home, affecting close friends, coworkers, and his community. He stresses that the message is not about him but about Jesus, forgiveness, hope, and being there for one another. He urges everyone listening to lean into God's promises and pray for peace that transcends understanding, even through unimaginable pain.If you have not yet accepted Christ, Pastor Mike pleads that today is the day: life is a vapor, tomorrow is not promised. Jesus offers salvation freely if you confess Him as Lord and believe. Through all the heartbreak, Pastor Mike closes with a prayer for God's peace and comfort for all who are suffering, reminding them that God never wastes pain and that He is always ready to embrace us with His unconditional love.
12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #6 of 12.here are bullet points on why the fulfillment of over 300 prophecies by Jesus is so powerful:Statistically impossible: The odds of one person fulfilling even a handful of specific ancient prophecies is astronomical, let alone 300+.Written centuries before: These prophecies were recorded hundreds of years before Jesus was born, proving they weren't staged after the fact.Details impossible to control: Many prophecies (like His birthplace, manner of death, betrayal price) were beyond Jesus's human control.Confirms divine plan: Shows God's sovereignty in orchestrating history to point to the Messiah.Strengthens faith: Fulfilling so many specific predictions validates that Jesus is truly the promised Savior.
12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #5 of 12.here are bullet points on why it's amazing (and supports its truth) that the Bible was written on three different continents:Geographic diversity: Written in Asia, Africa, and Europe, yet maintaining one unified story about God's redemption plan.Cross-cultural consistency: Despite spanning vastly different regions and cultures, the Bible's core message never changes.Impossible human coordination: People separated by oceans and continents could not naturally produce such a cohesive, consistent book without divine inspiration.
12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #4 of 12.here are bullet points on why it's incredible (and supports its truth) that the Bible was written in three different languages:Cross-cultural reliability: Written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, yet perfectly preserving a unified message across cultures and centuries.Accessible to diverse audiences: God's Word was communicated in the major languages of its time, showing His desire to reach all people.Translation stability: Despite language shifts, the Bible's core truths have remained intact, demonstrating God's protection of His message.
12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #3 of 12.the Bible was written over 1,500 years:Spans 15 centuries with consistency: Despite being written over 1,500 years, the Bible tells a cohesive story without contradicting its core message.Impossible to fake: No one generation could fabricate and maintain a book over such a long timeline without supernatural preservation.Consistent prophecy and fulfillment: Predictions made centuries earlier came true, proving a divine source behind its long-term accuracy.Survived cultural shifts: Over 1,500 years, societies and empires changed dramatically, but the Bible's message stayed steady.Proves preservation by God: Its transmission through different times, languages, and authors shows God protecting His Word.Relevance across eras: The Bible speaks to people today just as powerfully as it did thousands of years ago, showing its timeless truth.
12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #2 of 12.the Bible's truth is supported by the fact that about 40 different people wrote it:Remarkable unity: Despite 40 different authors from vastly different walks of life, the Bible maintains a single, consistent message about God's plan of salvation.No contradictions in core themes: Across centuries and cultures, these writers harmonized on key truths about God's character, humanity's sin, and redemption through Christ.Humanly impossible coordination: It would be impossible for 40 people over 1,500 years to coordinate such a unified story without divine guidance.Eyewitness testimony: Many authors personally witnessed the events they recorded, adding credibility.Prophetic consistency: Different authors prophesied things hundreds of years apart that came true later, showing a divine hand orchestrating it all.Historical accuracy: These varied writers recorded details verified by archaeology and secular history, reinforcing their reliability.
12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #1 of 12.Diverse perspectives: Written by around 40 authors from different backgrounds — kings, prophets, fishermen, scholars — yet it tells one unified story.Spanning centuries: Compiled over roughly 1,500 years, showing remarkable consistency across time and culture.Different literary styles: Includes poetry, history, law, prophecy, letters, and wisdom literature — all pointing to God's message.Prophecies fulfilled: Earlier books predict things that are fulfilled in later ones, creating a cohesive, supernatural thread.A shared foundation: Jews and Christians have preserved and shared these writings over centuries, shaping law, art, and moral frameworks worldwide.A living book: Millions still read and find meaning in its pages today, despite its ancient origins.
In today's episode of the Daily Verse by Verse Christian Podcast, we dive into Philemon 1:15-16, uncovering a powerful lesson on forgiveness, reconciliation, and God's love through this short yet impactful passage of God's Word. In this 10-minute daily Bible study, Pastor Mike Massey walks us verse by verse through Paul's heartfelt appeal for Onesimus, a runaway slave turned believer, and draws rich spiritual parallels to our own journey of faith, sin, and redemption.But before we unpack the scripture, Pastor Mike vulnerably shares a personal moment from the night before. After a long day, helping his 10-year-old daughter fix a stripped screw in a desk she was building became frustrating. The Holy Spirit convicted him mid-frustration—not to focus on finishing a task but to focus on relationship. That small domestic moment turned into a profound reflection on God's love, grace, and the importance of forgiveness. He knelt, apologized, and told her how proud he was. That moment of humility and restoration perfectly aligns with the spiritual truth in today's passage.In Philemon 1:15, Paul says, “For perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that you might receive him forever.” Paul is writing about Onesimus, who once ran away and wronged Philemon, but now returns not just as a servant—but as a beloved brother in Christ. This is a deep picture of how Jesus loves us and how we were once separated from God by sin—but now, through the blood of Christ, we are reconciled and received forever into God's family.Mike explains how this reflects the Gospel: we too were runaways, separated by sin, but Jesus stood in the gap. Like Paul interceding for Onesimus, Jesus intercedes for us. The physical separation of Onesimus had divine purpose—just like our spiritual separation from God did. Jesus experienced the ultimate separation on the cross, when God the Father turned His back for those agonizing hours. That spiritual pain was greater than any physical suffering. Why? Because Jesus took on the sin of the world—your sin and mine—so we could be forgiven and restored.Mike draws attention to how we were slaves to sin—chained and bound—but once we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, we're no longer slaves. We become brothers and sisters in Christ, part of one body—the Church. This episode reminds us that once you accept Christ, you are no longer condemned, no longer distant. You have direct access to God the Father through Jesus, our High Priest from the order of Melchizedek. The veil in the Holy of Holies was torn. The separation is gone. That's the beauty of the New Covenant.In Philemon 1:16, Paul writes that Onesimus is now “no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—a beloved brother.” Pastor Mike unpacks how this transformation mirrors our own. We're no longer bound to sin but are elevated to children of God—free, forgiven, and loved. If you're carrying bitterness or harboring unforgiveness—whether toward a spouse, friend, child, parent, or boss—this episode is your reminder to let it go. Not just for their benefit—but for your freedom.This episode of the Daily Verse by Verse Christian Podcast is ideal for anyone wanting to grow in biblical literacy, Christian parenting, daily Bible study, and deeper understanding of Jesus' forgiveness. Pastor Mike's expository Bible teaching makes complex truths simple and applicable in under 10 minutes a day.Whether you're doing a personal quiet time, a family devotion, or seeking encouragement during your commute, this podcast will help you study the Bible, experience God's love, and walk out your faith one verse at a time. Don't forget to rate the podcast, hit follow, and share it with others who could use a Christian podcast that preaches God's Word clearly and passionately.
Is forgiveness something we are forced to give—or is it a choice of the heart? In today's Daily Verse By Verse episode, Pastor Mike Massey takes us through Philemon 1:12–14, where Paul sends Onesimus, a transformed believer, back to his former master Philemon. Through this powerful exchange, we unpack the essence of voluntary forgiveness—a response rooted not in compulsion, but in love and obedience to God's Word. Paul doesn't demand reconciliation—he invites it. And so does God.Explore how God's forgiveness of your sins serves as the model for how you forgive others. Whether someone at work, in your family, or from your past has hurt you, today's message reminds you that unforgiveness binds the heart, while forgiveness sets it free. You'll hear why God's love empowers us to forgive as we've been forgiven, and how doing so aligns us with His eternal purpose.This mini-sermon is packed with daily Bible study, expository teaching, and applications for your Christian walk. Learn how forgiveness connects to the Great Commission, how voluntary love reflects God's character, and how your life story is a Cinderella story of grace—one where Jesus already secured the victory.Perfect for your daily devotionals, this Christian podcast will help you study the Bible, reflect on God's love, and apply verse-by-verse Bible teaching to your everyday life.Keywords: God's love, daily Bible study, God's Word, sermons, verse by verse, Christian podcast, Jesus loves me, study the Bible, Bible teachingTags: forgiveness, Philemon 1:12-14, Christian podcast, daily devotion, voluntary love, God's grace, study the Bible, Paul and Onesimus, reconciliation, Bible study podcast, God's Word, 10-minute sermon
Do you hold a grudge? Is there someone from your past orpresent you've struggled to forgive? In today's episode on Philemon 1:5–12,Pastor Mike Massey dives deeper into Paul's plea for grace and forgiveness ashe writes to Philemon about Onesimus—the runaway slave who has now become abrother in Christ. This verse-by-verse Bible study reveals the heart ofChristian love, humility, and how Jesus transforms us into new creations forHis kingdom.daily Bible study, God's love, Christian podcast, God'sWord, Bible teaching, forgiveness, Philemon, study the Bible, Jesus loves me,Christian sermons, grace of God, daily devotion, verse by verse,reconciliation, peace of Christ, Paul and Onesimus, Christian fellowship,spiritual accountability, saints, Christian identity, let go of grudgesIn this heartfelt episode, Pastor Mike Massey invites you toexamine your heart for lingering unforgiveness, while unpacking Paul's loving,Spirit-filled appeal to Philemon. Paul hears of Philemon's faith and love forJesus and the saints, and challenges all of us: Would anyone hear about yourfaith and love for Jesus? Is your walk with Christ contagious enough to be seenand talked about? Would there be enough evidence to convict you of being aChristian?Mike explains the biblical definition of saints—notmiracle-working superhumans, but all believers in Christ. If you're a followerof Jesus, you are a saint. Paul encourages Philemon, telling him that his loveand faith have refreshed the hearts of the saints. This encouragement remindsus that living boldly and lovingly in Christ has ripple effects that refreshand uplift others.Rather than commanding Philemon to do what's right, Paulmodels humility and appeals out of love. Mike reminds us this is a lesson forhow we should relate to others in the body of Christ—holding each otheraccountable not with condemnation, but with love, grace, and truth. Headdresses the false notion that confronting sin is judgmental. On the contrary,Scripture calls Christians to lovingly confront both believers andnon-believers, not to condemn but to point them to the saving grace of Jesus.Paul also shares his spiritual resume—he's aged,experienced, and a prisoner of Christ—and then appeals on behalf of Onesimus,whom he calls “my son.” Onesimus, once unprofitable, is now profitable for bothPaul and Philemon because he's been transformed by Jesus Christ. Mike unpacksthis beautiful truth: through Jesus, people who once failed, hurt us, orwronged us can be redeemed and used by God for His glory.If God has transformed Onesimus, a thief and runaway slave,into a man useful for the kingdom, imagine what He can do with you—or someoneyou've been holding bitterness against. The blood of Jesus makes all thingsnew.This episode challenges listeners to lay down the burdens ofbitterness and grudge-holding, and to pick up the joy of reconciliation. Whenwe walk in God's love, we become spiritually profitable—ready to serve, togive, and to refresh others. Let today be the day you forgive, love, and sharethe grace you've received through Christ.Have an incredible and a blessed day, and join us next timeas we continue in Philemon 1:12.
Philemon 1:1-5 | Daily Verse by Verse | Forgiveness, Freedom & the Grace of God | 10 Minute Christian Podcast Bible StudyDiscover God's love and grace in Philemon 1:1–5 as we explore forgiveness, faith, and Christian unity. Learn how Paul encourages reconciliation through Jesus Christ. This verse-by-verse Bible study reveals the power of God's Word to heal broken relationships and transform hearts. A must-hear Christian podcast for anyone struggling to forgive or seeking peace. Join Pastor Mike Massey in this 10-minute daily Bible teaching.daily Bible study, God's love, Christian podcast, God's Word, Bible teaching, forgiveness, Philemon, study the Bible, Jesus loves me, Christian sermons, grace of God, daily devotion, verse by verse, New Testament, reconciliation, prayer life, peace of Christ, bondservant, Paul and Philemon, OnesimusIn this powerful 10-minute Christian podcast episode, Pastor Mike Massey walks us through Philemon 1:1–5, challenging listeners to reflect deeply on forgiveness and their personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He begins by addressing the burden and bondage of unforgiveness, encouraging us to ask: “Is there someone you need to forgive?” Whether it's someone from your past or present, Mike reminds us that forgiving others doesn't release them—it releases us.Using the backdrop of Paul's heartfelt letter to Philemon, Pastor Mike explains how Onesimus, a runaway slave who likely stole from his master, encounters Paul, is transformed by the gospel of Jesus Christ, and becomes a Christian. Paul then pleads with Philemon to forgive Onesimus and welcome him back—not as a slave—but as a brother in Christ. This radical call to reconciliation illustrates the beauty of God's love, and the power of grace in action.Mike dives into how the Bible doesn't endorse slavery but rather undermines it through gospel principles. Scriptures like Genesis 1:27 and Galatians 3:28 proclaim the dignity and equality of all people in Christ. Through the book of Philemon, we see that love, humility, and reconciliation are central to Christian living.As Paul identifies himself as “a prisoner of Christ Jesus,” Pastor Mike reflects on the heart of Christian service. True Christianity isn't about obligation but transformation—it's about wanting to serve God joyfully. He challenges listeners to examine their motivations: do you read the Bible, go to church, or pray out of guilt or love? If you lack the desire to follow Christ, it may indicate you haven't experienced true spiritual rebirth.He explains Paul's salutation—“Grace to you and peace from God our Father”—noting that grace always comes before peace. You can't experience the peace of God until you've accepted the grace of God through Jesus. This “peace that surpasses understanding” is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of God in our trials.Pastor Mike continues by asking: “Who are you praying for?” Just as Paul prays for Philemon, we should intercede for others—not merely praying selfish prayers for success or comfort, but seeking to grow God's kingdom.He closes with the importance of expressing gratitude to God—through our time, resources, and service. The message of this episode is clear: God redeems broken people and uses them for His glory. Whether it's Paul (once a persecutor of Christians), Philemon (a slave owner), or Onesimus (a runaway thief), God's grace transforms lives.Listeners are left with a final challenge: Is God calling you to forgive someone today? Let the blood of Jesus wash away the bitterness. Lay it at the cross and walk in freedom. Forgiveness reconciles us not just with people, but with God Himself.
What is the #1 thing that separates Christianity from every other religion?What is the one thing that separates Christianity from every other religion? One thing. Do you know it? You want to know it. You should know it. Watch this podcast to find out. We're going to let you know. We are picking up in Hebrews chapter 13 verse 21. Let's go. This is going to finish up the book of Hebrews. So we're going to start by reading chapter 20 and then we'll start interpreting with 21.Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do his will, working in you what is well pleasing in his sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. So he says, make you complete in every good work to do his will. You see, God equips us.One of the things to think about is lot of people say, I'm not equipped. I can't go out. I don't know the Bible well enough. I can't tell people. I can't answer their questions and therefore I'm not going to witness for God. But what we know is some of the greatest evangelists, some of the people who have just been so impactful for the kingdom of Christ have not been great theologians. They have been people who have been changed by Christ, accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior, and they're so excited and they realize how importantimportant this is, how eternal this decision is, how much of an earthly impact with peace and joy it has on them, that they just go out and start telling people. And that is a huge witness. So if you're being held back or you're holding yourself back is really the issue from telling people about Jesus because you don't think you can answer their questions or you don't know enough about the Bible, you'll never know the Bible completely. You'll never know the Bible well enough to be able to answer every single question that someone can throw at you.And it is totally fine to be in a conversation with someone and just say, you know, I don't know the answer to that. Let me go pray about it, research it, and I'll get back to you. But what you're going to find is that God doesn't call the equipped. He equips the called. If He calls you to do something, whether it's telling your neighbor about Jesus, your colleague about Jesus, going to Third World for a week to do a short-term mission trip.going to the food bank and telling people about Jesus and handing him food, whatever it is, he's going to equip you. And it could be as simple as just saying Jesus loves you. Most people don't get into a big theological discussion. And those who do, oftentimes, don't really want to know about Jesus. They just want to win a debate and an argument. So be careful, right? And God even tells us that. Jesus tells us that in the Bible. He says to kick the dust off your feet.If you go somewhere and you're telling them about Jesus and they're just not listening, then just shake the dust off. Go to the next house, go to the next city, go to the next town, whatever it is. But God will make you complete in every good work to do His will. We are here to carry out His will. He gives us these incredible, godly desires. And then we have to use our free will to decide whether we're actually going to use those to advance God's kingdom.or whether we're going to continue down the path of just making this life all about us and not stopping to live for Jesus and not making him a priority or a purpose in our life, but just a sidecar, something in the backseat. You got this little motorcycle with the sidecar and you kind of put him in there and you're like, hey, Jesus, you're going to tag along with me wherever I go. Throw him in the trunk of your car and say, you're just going to go along with me. Instead, give him the wheel. Let him drive. And you say, I want to go with you.
Mike Massey (00:00)Jesus is dead. Wait, what? All right. This is what the majority of the world believes. What do you believe? What do you think? Did he rise from the dead? Because if you don't believe he rose from the dead, then you don't believe he's God. Only God could come to earth in the form of a human and die and pay the price for our sins. He's the only one qualified.There are so many people who say, yeah, he's dead. He was a good teacher, a good moral teacher, but he's gone. No, no, no. Right. Even the Muslims, you can look in the Surah and they believe that Jesus did not die, but went to heaven. We'll later come back and then die at that point in time. But Jesus is not dead. We're going to get into that in Hebrews chapter 13, verse 20. And just a second talking about God, father raising him from the dead. But right now we're going to start with chapter 13 verse18 let's go pray for us for we are confident that we have a good conscience and all things desiring to live honorably. Pray for us. Do you understand how powerful prayer is? It is so wonderful when someone says to me and to you, I will pray for you. Let me pray for you right now. Let's not underestimate or undermine prayer. is powerful means of communication. It's a powerful form of bonding to people that we're not even with at that moment.Because when you pray for someone, you have a heart for them. So don't forget to pray, pray for people and pray for them right there on the spot. Don't just say you're in my thoughts and prayers, right? No, no, no. And don't just say, I'll pray for you. Say, I'll pray for you. You know what? Let me pray for you right here, right now in the middle of this mall, in the middle of the store, in the middle of the street, in the middle of the office, wherever it is, do it right then, right there. It's one of the most powerful things you'll ever do in your life. promise. How do I know this? Because I learned it.and I continue to do it and I love doing it. It's one of the most powerful parts of every day that I have. It says, pray for us for we are confident that we have a good conscience and all things desiring to live honorably. We should live honorably. We should want people to look at our lives, our deeds and our words and see Jesus. We are the hands and feet of Jesus. And if we do that, then we can live with a good conscience knowing that God's going toHelp us. He is going to forgive us. In fact, he already forgave us. This is one of the big points. So many people think when I die, uh-oh, Jesus is going to shake his face. He's going to point his finger at me and say, look what you did. You hypocrite. No, that's not how it works. The moment you accepted Jesus as your Lord and savior, right then you were forgiven past, present, future sense. His arms are spread wide on the cross, East and West. And he is essentially saying,I forgive you as far as the East is from the West. He holds nothing against those who have accepted him as their Lord and your Lord and savior. And verse 19, we're told, but I especially urge you to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner this restoration, we should continually be seeking to love other people in the name of Jesus, to be in community with those around us.to love on non-believers as well because they're watching us. We may be the only Bible that they read. We want our actions, our attitudes, our deeds, our words to reflect Jesus, not for our salvation, because you were justified the moment you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior. But the rest of your life, you get to live with that peace and that joy, knowing that the devil and his demons are gonna try to knock you down all the time and get you off your rocker. Happened to me yesterday, very tough day. The earlier start today.
Walk the walk AND talk the talk so that others can learn about Jesus through your deeds and words.
What walls are entrapping you today? Keeping you away from Jesus, freedom and joy?
Fear is the opposite of faith. Which do you have at the moment?
We should celebrate our military for fighting for our freedoms. We should celebrate Jesus for dying for our eternal freedom.
God wants to shake away all the junk, so you're left fine and refined by his fire and blood. Are you in?
The law was designed to reveal, not to heal. We can't get to heaven through good works or reincarnation or purgatory.
The devil wants you to go off path, to blame the discipliner and to focus on the past. Take the straight path to Jesus.
Find out in Hebrews 12:8-11
A loving parent disciplines, and a child who wants to mature well accepts and respects such discipline.
Veterans and military make a difference towards our freedom. Jesus is the true freedom. The perfect world will not exist this side of heaven, but there's purpose in the process.
You are afraid, so is every American today. Politics, politicians, and political parties cannot save you nor bring you peace or joy. BUT JESUS Can!!!
They were persecuted then. Our brothers and sisters in other countries are persecuted now. Persecution is heating up in America of Christians by non-believers. Expect it.
Are you tough enough for God. Loving Jesus is not about prosperity or great health.
Have you screwed up like David? How did he make it into the Faith Hall of Fame?
Unforgiveness creates a prison around you and makes people bitter. Jesus offers complete forgiveness, regardless of how bad your past decisions have been.
Today is the day. Don't focus on yesterday. Yesterday doesn't define you, it simply shapes your character.
Suffering in the midst of sharing the gospel is way better than the passing pleasures that this earth has to offer.
Saved by faith, or by rules, or by inheritance, or by birth order?
Abraham believed by faith that his son Isaac would be raised from the dead if he sacrificed him. Why did he believe that?
Learn about Abraham in the Bible Hall of Fame in Hebrews 11:8-10
How many people are you inviting onto the boat?
How many deeds to we need to earn salvation from God?
Why was Abel's sacrifice sufficient, but Cain's was not?
What percentage of people can have salvation through deeds? 0%!
God's timing is perfect. He has not forgotten about you.
Christians losing free speech and others rights in America is sad, but ultimately expected. Don't let it ruin your joy or your witness.
Do you have a healthy fear of Jesus?
Can you get to heaven by being part of the Christian "fraternity"?
What deeds will qualify you for heaven?