Thinking on SermonAudio

❓ Do you really have peace with God? You might think you do… but what if you're wrong? The Bible says we don't automatically have peace with God. But there IS a way to have peace with Him today.

We think through some basic considerations before dig into the text of Revelation. What principles should govern our interpretation? Why does the date matter?

In the last fifty years, megachurches have become commonplace and are an accepted model of church even in Reformed circles (in the sense that people plant churches with the intent of rapidly growing into a megachurch). But in Christianity, the details always matter, and while God has at times caused churches to grow very quickly, this does not mean it is good to plan to create a large church. In this episode, we want to examine the trade-offs that come with large churches. Even in cases where God causes the church to grow rapidly, there are difficulties that must be dealt with. God has specific things to say about his church, why he created it, and what he expects it to accomplish. Megachurches, particularly those that are intentionally created by men, are rarely well-suited to accomplishing these goals. Please join us as we discuss this important topic. Thumbnail image by CC BY-NC 2,0 by ad.hermann on FlickrProduction of Reformation Baptist Church of Youngsville, NCPermanent Hosts - Dan Horn, Charles Churchill and Joshua HornTechnical Director - Timothy KaiserTheme Music - Gabriel Hudelson

1 Corinthians 1:12 "Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ." King James Version

It Ain't Gonna Reign No More is my theological homophonic pun on the title of a catchy 1920's nonsense song that sold over 2 million copies. If you look it up online and play it (only about a minute long), I can almost guarantee you will get an earworm. We saw last time, from Romans 6:1-11, that by dint of your identification with Christ once you trust in His finished work on the cross to atone for your sin and give you new life, you have a new identity. Now sin is no longer your master, Jesus is your Master. In verse 11, the word consider is connected to the same root word as logic. The core meaning is to determine by a mathematical process, to reckon or calculate. From that basic idea come the more common meanings and uses: to count, take account of, to evaluate, estimate, look upon as, consider, to give careful thought to a matter, think (about), consider, ponder, let one's mind dwell on, believe, be of the opinion. How do you consider yourself dead to sin and alive to God? Based upon knowing that you have been baptized into His death and knowing that your old man was crucified with Him, 1) Consider yourself dead to sin (verse 11). 2) Present yourself to God (verse 13). Three commands in the next three verses shape what to do. They're followed by some wonderful explanations, which we will survey. Here's an outline based upon the structure and nuances of the passage. 1 - Do Not Keep On Letting Sin Reign (12) 2 - Do Not Keep On Presenting (13a) 3 - Urgently Present Yourselves To God (13b) 4 - For You Are Under Grace (14) 5 - Here Is What I Mean (15-23)

Longing for God's Word is longing for Christ Himself. God's Word is spiritual food that helps you grow. To grow spiritually read it, study it, think about it, discuss it, and obey it.

Please consider how you can be faithful to the Lord Jesus Christ through your financial support to the continued work of His Church in this time. Contributions can be made by PayPal ( https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=CK4HH84AFWTY4 ) or by visiting our website ( faithbiblepres.org ) or by mailing your contribution to: Faith Bible Presbyterian Church 3001 Marian Dr. Trenton Mi 48183 "The Pastor ought to have two voices: one, for gathering the sheep; and another, for warding off and driving away wolves and thieves. The Scripture supplies him with the means of doing both." ~ John Calvin (July 10, 1509 - May 27, 1564). "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." ~ NKJV John 10:27 "Satan's greatest success is in making people think they have plenty of time before they die to consider their eternal welfare" ~ John Owen (1616 - August 1683). "For the word of God and testimony of Jesus Christ." ~ NKJV Rev. 1:9 Fᴀɪᴛʜ Bɪʙʟᴇ Pʀᴇsʙʏᴛᴇʀɪᴀɴ Cʜᴜʀᴄʜ ~ Tʀᴜᴇ Worship & Aᴜᴛʜᴇɴᴛɪᴄ Fᴇʟʟᴏᴡsʜɪᴘ ~ Faith Bible Presbyterian Church is a Bible believing and Christ honoring church that is committed to teaching|preaching the Word of God with diligence and authority. We stand for the historic Christian faith, and we welcome you to our services of worship. Won't you join us? faithbiblepres.org

In learning to understand how God wants us to love others, Christ is the supreme example to observe and follow. In this message we see the inexpressible debt we owed God and how because of His great love, He has freely forgiven us. We also see that sometimes love actually has to do hard things. This message takes a fresh look at what love is and how to love.

Please consider how you can be faithful to the Lord Jesus Christ through your financial support to the continued work of His Church in this time. Contributions can be made by PayPal ( https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=CK4HH84AFWTY4 ) or by visiting our website ( faithbiblepres.org ) or by mailing your contribution to: Faith Bible Presbyterian Church 3001 Marian Dr. Trenton Mi 48183 "The Pastor ought to have two voices: one, for gathering the sheep; and another, for warding off and driving away wolves and thieves. The Scripture supplies him with the means of doing both." ~ John Calvin (July 10, 1509 - May 27, 1564). "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." ~ NKJV John 10:27 "Satan's greatest success is in making people think they have plenty of time before they die to consider their eternal welfare" ~ John Owen (1616 - August 1683). "For the word of God and testimony of Jesus Christ." ~ NKJV Rev. 1:9 Fᴀɪᴛʜ Bɪʙʟᴇ Pʀᴇsʙʏᴛᴇʀɪᴀɴ Cʜᴜʀᴄʜ ~ Tʀᴜᴇ Worship & Aᴜᴛʜᴇɴᴛɪᴄ Fᴇʟʟᴏᴡsʜɪᴘ ~ Faith Bible Presbyterian Church is a Bible believing and Christ honoring church that is committed to teaching|preaching the Word of God with diligence and authority. We stand for the historic Christian faith, and we welcome you to our services of worship. Won't you join us? faithbiblepres.org

We have to access God by inviting Him into our hearts, the affairs that we are tending to, this makes sure we are aware that we're asking for His guidance in what we are doing. So many times we go into situations and circumstances we think are minor or that we can easily control which end up controlling us, usually these are matters we kind of know they are fleshly led not really desiring the answer we know we will get from God.

Theme: King Lemuel counsels regarding inappropriate and appropriate uses of alcoholic beverages. I. Inappropriate Use of Alcoholic Beverages A. The beverages 1. Wine [yayin]—clearly, an alcoholic drink 2. Beer [strong drink][shekar] B. Warning regarding their use 1. Drinking alcohol is not a sin 2. The warning is with regard to drunkenness C. Particularly, there are two reasons for the warning 1. Forgetting the law 2. Perverting the judgment of the afflicted Application A. Beware: Abuse of alcohol terribly afflicts our society B. Beware of the danger of alcohol 1. Drunkenness is a serious sin: Genesis 19:32-35 2. Giving over to wine is idolatry: Hosea 4:10-11; Psalm 4:7 3. Drunks don't go to heaven: Is. 5:11, 22; I Cor. 6:9f; Gal. 5:21 4. Don't drink if you can't handle it, or if you think it's a sin against God C. Do not let addiction keep you away from God's grace 1. Don't think that God couldn't possibly forgive you 2. Don't feel ashamed to come to church D. Repent of any idolatry in your life, including addictions 1. The message of the gospel is to repent—turn from your sin 2. And place your faith in Jesus, a willing and able Savior

This sermon explores the nature of fear as a gap between perceived threats and available resources, using the account of Jesus calming the storm in Mark 4 to illustrate how faith reorders our response to anxiety. The speaker argues that fear often masks deeper insecurities and false conclusions about God's care, urging believers to name their specific fears rather than letting them control behavior. By normalizing the experience of storms in the Christian life, the message challenges the notion that faith guarantees the absence of difficulty, asserting instead that it provides the trust to navigate through it. The central invitation is to recognize God's presence, surrender uncontrollable outcomes, and take courageous steps forward, relying on the ultimate victory over death that Christ has already secured. The goal is not the elimination of fear, but its displacement by the awe and reverence of the Lord, which diminishes all other anxieties.

Thinking of Ourselves part 3. When we are unable to see things from another person's perspective. When doubtful disputations (differing opinions or disputes over doubtful things) hinder us from being able to see that something isn't God's viewpoint but our own.

Part one of a two-part message on Philippians 2:1-6, and the tenth message in Pastor Robert Rohlin's study of Philippians. Epaphroditus has carried good news and hard news from Philippi to Paul's prison cell - a joyful church with a crack in it, and two faithful women, Euodia and Syntyche, who no longer get along. Rohlin works through the four cords Paul uses to hold a church together: consolation in Christ, the comfort of love, the fellowship of the Spirit, and compassion from the deepest part of a person. He then turns to the mindset that keeps unity - one mind, one love, one accord - and to the two things that kill it, selfish ambition and empty glory. Division inside a church, he says, is more dangerous than any enemy outside it, and it almost always starts over something small. Why listen? Because the little things are what divide people, at church and at home. Rohlin brings in the rowers of Ben Hur pulling to one drumbeat, the church at Ephesus that kept its programs and lost its first love, D. L. Moody quietly shining the shoes of visiting preachers at Northfield, and the man who comforted a young widow by polishing her children's shoes for their father's funeral. You will get a plain definition of humility - not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less - and a test you can put to your own attitude this week. Part two picks up the mind of Christ in verses 5 and 6.

This sermon examines the insidious nature of worldly moral reasoning, tracing its roots to the temptation in the Garden of Eden where doubt replaced absolute obedience. The speaker contrasts the relativistic framework of pragmatism, which prioritizes personal benefit and consequences, with the absolute duty to trust God's character and commands. Drawing on Leviticus 18 and 2 Corinthians 6, the message emphasizes the necessity of separation from incompatible cultural thought forms to prevent the corrosion of biblical truth. While acknowledging the challenge of living within secular cultures, the sermon urges believers to take every thought captive to Christ, rejecting syncretism and maintaining a distinct moral identity grounded in Scripture.

Php 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Php 4:9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

This update explores recent scientific discoveries regarding a boat-shaped rock formation on Mount Ararat, suggesting it may be Noah's Ark, and uses this as a catalyst to discuss the theological parallels between the pre-flood era and the present day. It highlights the widespread wickedness, sexual perversion, and biological mixing of kinds described in Genesis 6 as characteristics that are recurring in modern society through technology and cultural shifts. The Pastor emphasizes the literal nature of biblical prophecy, noting that the announcement of the potential discovery coincided with Rosh Hashanah, the date the Ark is said to have landed, reinforcing the idea that God keeps His promises and warnings. This serves as a pastoral call to recognize the coming judgment and the necessity of finding salvation in Christ, who is depicted as the ultimate ark of escape for believers. Questions Has Noah's Ark really been found, or is the Durupınar formation still just a possible site? Does the Bible actually say Noah's Ark landed on Mount Ararat, or does it say the "mountains of Ararat"? What evidence makes researchers think the boat-shaped formation in Turkey could be Noah's Ark? How closely do the measurements of the Durupınar formation match the dimensions God gave Noah in Genesis? What have ground-penetrating radar and core samples reportedly found inside the formation? Why did God tell Noah to put pitch on both the inside and outside of the Ark? Could preservation have been part of the reason? When Jesus said the last days would be "as the days of Noah," what similarities should Christians actually be watching for? What's the strange mixing described in Genesis 6.

"Show up," we are responsible to meet with God's people and, as part of his body, to help each other in our sanctification. "Speak up," let the word of Christ dwell in you richly and speak it into the lives of others, for their good and edification. "Man up" in the face of all the objections that you can think of for not obeying God, don't willingly sin! It's a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God!

People tend to think of their "goodness" as a matter of relativity. But those who compare themselves with each other are not wise. The more you think of your own "goodness" the less you see your need of Christ. Christian Relativity does not compare ourselves with others, but rather compares ourselves to Christ.

Why ought we believe in a pretribulation rapture? I can think of at least one good reason: immanency.

Throughout history, there have been many people who searched for something that would keep them from aging.1 Ancient Gilgamesh supposedly found a plant that would make him young, but it was stolen from him before he could use it. The ancient historian, Herodotus, talked about a special water that lengthened people's lives. And Ponce de Leon was supposed to have searched for the fountain of youth in a place called Bimini. Why have so many people wanted to find the cure for aging? Perhaps they were afraid to die or wanted to regain the strength they had when they were younger. The Bible does not offer a fountain of youth. However, Jesus did offer eternal life to those who believed in Him. What exactly was He talking about? Was He offering a longer life on earth for Christians? I don't think so. Was He talking about eternity in heaven? Not necessarily. What He was talking about was something far greater than a longer life or even life after death. And this will be explained in our passage today.

Clothed, Contending, and Kept This message centers on the truth that Jesus did not simply deliver us from an old way of living; He delivered us unto Himself so that we can live differently in this world. Ephesians 4 shows us that we are to put off the old man, be renewed in the spirit of our mind, and put on the new man. Romans 12 and Philippians 1 reinforce the same truth: as we continually present ourselves to the Lord, He renews our thinking, grows our love in knowledge and discernment, and enables us to recognize and live out what is excellent in His sight. The believer has a whole new way of thinking, walking, responding, and living. We do not have to react like the world around us because we belong to another kingdom. We are ambassadors of Jesus, and our conduct ought to look like the kingdom we represent. The more our minds are renewed, the more clearly we can discern what is right, walk sincerely before the Lord, and be filled with the fruits of righteousness that come through Jesus. That truth leads directly into Jude, where believers are told to contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints because ungodly influences had crept in unnoticed. Jude warns us through the examples of Cain, Balaam, and Korah. Cain pictures, "Look what I did." Balaam pictures, "Look what I desire." Korah pictures, "Look what I deserve." Each one reveals the danger of self taking the place that belongs to God. Jesus is the great contrast: He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and safety is found in staying close to Him. Jude also reminds us that error often works beneath the surface like hidden rocks, clouds without water, or trees without fruit. That is why believe

The sermon draws a theological parallel between the United States and the unnamed man casting out devils in Mark 9, arguing that America is currently acting in alignment with God's will despite opposition from other nations. Bro. Qualls presents ten similarities, asserting that America is anonymous in prophecy, alarmed by global suffering, available to act in Christ's name, and able to execute decisive actions that others cannot. This message serves as a defense of current American foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran and Israel, framing these efforts as spiritual victories rather than mere political maneuvers. The tone is confident and pastoral, encouraging believers to view national events through a biblical lens and to trust that God is rewarding America's unique role in securing freedom and spreading the Gospel.

On this Let's Talk Pastor Rocky Stevenson of Benoni Bible Church is joined with Bill Jack from Worldview Academy in the USA, and they discuss and explore the biblical mandate for Christians to question authority and engage in critical thinking, contrasting this with secular educational models that often discourage inquiry. It introduces four foundational questions—clarifying meaning, establishing authority, assessing life impact, and considering consequences—that serve as practical tools for evangelism and apologetics. The discussion emphasizes the importance of applying theological truth in real-world contexts, such as college campuses, to effectively share the gospel. By framing believers as both priests and kings, the message encourages a confident yet humble approach to dialogue, where the goal is to plant seeds of truth rather than demand immediate conversion. The tone is instructional and encouraging, urging listeners to move beyond passive belief to active, reasoned engagement with the world.

Two of biblical counseling's most influential leaders died within a year of each other (Adams and Powlison), and the movement has been fracturing ever since. In this series finale, Dr. Jared Poulton joins Jared and Dr. Alan Strange to bring the story into the present: the growing rift between "clinically informed" and "historic" biblical counseling, the theological debates over common grace and secular psychology no reformed denomination has ever weighed in on, and why so many Reformed Christians have kept biblical counseling at arm's length despite wanting exactly what it offers. Dr. Poulton makes the case for where the movement goes from here, and issues a direct challenge to pastors and elders who've sat this conversation out. Whether you've followed all four episodes or you're just catching up, this closing conversation will change how you think about the counsel happening in your own church.

Can Christians appreciate nude art? The Roman Catholic and fine art traditions think so. But is nudity really ok as long as it's "non-erotic" and "artistic?" Kevin Swanson and Joshua Schwisow investigate what scripture has to say about public nudity, shame, and lust. They discuss: - Is the body – God's creation – intrinsically shameful? - What the Bible says about uncovering nakedness…and what we all know to do when it happens accidentally. Should our response be any different when it's on purpose? - The problem with lust, and why coveting sexual fulfillment in images is sin – even if they're not of real people - What the church fathers said about the Roman statues we now consider so artistic - The connection between demonization and nudity, and how missionaries living among unclothed native peoples dealt with it Got a topic you want us to cover? Email us at mail@generations.org Subscribe for more biblical answers to worldview questions from Generations. #WhatDoesTheBibleSayAboutThat #Generations #KevinSwanson #Nudity #ArtVsPorn

When it's time to Stop Controlling and Start Trusting True biblical peace comes from trusting God with our circumstances, not controlling every outcome ourselves. In this episode of SheRises, we examine anxiety, surrender, Christian responsibility, and the exhausting burden of trying to hold the reins of life. Jesus promises, "My peace I give you" (John | 14:27), but He never promises a trouble-free life. Instead, He offers settled confidence in God's sovereignty, goodness, and care, even during grief, illness, conflict, financial pressure, or uncertainty. Jesus reminds us, "In the world you will have tribulation" (John | 16:33), while Philippians | 4:6–7 teaches us to bring our requests to God through prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving. Biblical surrender is not passivity; it means taking faithful action while trusting God with the outcome. Listen and reflect on where you may be holding tightly to control instead of resting in Christ's peace.

In today's chaotic digital age, our spiritual well-being can easily become compromised by the overwhelming influence of social media. Platforms like TikTok, while providing valuable connections and resources, can also lead us into a cycle of comparison, distraction, and even sin. As we engage with these platforms, we risk losing sight of our spiritual priorities. Scripture reminds us in Hebrews 10:24-25 of the importance of gathering as a community, emphasizing that online interactions can never replace the depth offered by in-person fellowship. The allure of social media can distract us from our devotion to God, leading to spiritual neglect, as outlined in 2 Timothy 3:1-7, which warns of a culture that prioritizes self over God. We must reflect on how our digital consumption shapes our hearts and actions. Are we using these tools to build others up, or are we allowing them to tear us down? Proverbs 14:1 teaches that wisdom builds up, while folly destroys. As we navigate these platforms, let's take a moment to consider what truly matters and how our digital habits align with God's will.

Why is it that leaders can be guilty of injustice and oppression for years, only to be finally removed from office or publicly disgraced when a sexual scandal breaks? Why do men like Bill Gothard or Joe Biden spend years openly using their authority and forcing women and children to endure their violations of intimacy through unwanted touches or closeness, and it is accepted? How do we solve these types of problems? How can we protect not just our sons and daughters, but how can we change our culture so such evil is not permitted?In this episode, we want to ask what God's word says about authority and oppression. We know that God says all authorities are appointed by Him, but does that mean we just have to put up with evil leaders? God forbid! But often, as Christians, we forget that God has appointed multiple authorities - not just the church and home, but even other officers in the same government or other levels of government. God cares greatly about oppression, but at times, it seems as if the church does not. We need to change that. Please join us as we discuss this important topic. Production of Reformation Baptist Church of Youngsville, NCPermanent Hosts - Dan Horn, Charles Churchill and Joshua HornTechnical Director - Timothy KaiserTheme Music - Gabriel Hudelson

What if Christians stopped thinking like spiritual refugees and began thinking like heirs? Scripture offers a dramatically different vision of responsibility, mission, obedience, and hope.

What does the Bible say about Yom Kippur, how do Jews celebrate it today, and what should Christians think about it?

This sermon explores the practical remedy for anxiety and worry found in Philippians 4:8-9, emphasizing the importance of intentionally directing one's thoughts toward what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and praiseworthy. Drawing on John Bunyan's allegory of the soul's gates, the message warns against allowing falsehoods and harmful influences to penetrate the mind through the ear, eye, and mouth. The central argument posits that while believers are called to meditate on these virtues, only Jesus Christ perfectly embodies all of them, making Him the ultimate focus of such contemplation. By fixing the mind on the character and work of Christ, believers can counter the internal assaults of worry and experience the surpassing peace of God that guards their hearts and minds.

Looking at Philippians chapter 2 (the Kanosis passage) and seeing our need to esteem others better than ourselves.

There are many times that the Bible is used out of context. A sentence or even a whole verse is taken and we think: "Here we have facts and truth!" Yet when we look at the context, we find that this interpretation is lacking. The context defines and shows us the truth. Join us as we explore this problem and then look at the teaching regarding Jesus clearing the temple.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (Jeremiah 29:11-14) *1/ The reason the Lord's people seek and find him - (Jeremiah 29:11) 2/ How they find him - (Jeremiah 29:12-13) 3/ The effect of the Lord being found by his people - (Jeremiah 29:14)* **Sermon summary:** This sermon explores the divine purpose behind God's dealings with His people, emphasizing that His thoughts are of peace and a hopeful future rather than destruction. It examines how believers are drawn to seek God through sincere prayer and wholehearted devotion, countering the false assurance of worldly prophets. The message highlights the transformative effect of finding God, which includes the removal of spiritual bondage, the gathering of the community, and the ultimate restoration of the soul. By referencing the historical context of the Babylonian exile and the personal testimony of the speaker, the sermon encourages believers to trust in God's sovereign plan and to find comfort in His presence during times of trial.

You Are What You Think Colossians 3:1-4

Our world struggles today with who is in control. Ifit's not who we think it is... Genesis 9:1-17 (Part 1)

Our world struggles today with who is in control. Ifit's not who we think it is... Genesis 9:1-17 (Part 1)

We ended last week… talking about the difference between the tribes of Reuben and Meroz… and the tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali. When God called Reuben… they seriously thought about going… but they didn't. Meroz had the opportunity to go… and they didn't. But when God called Zebulun and Naphtali… they actually went. And that left us with a question: When God places an opportunity for obedience in front of us… do we merely think about it—or do we act? Zebulun and Naphtali acted… they obeyed. Well tonight… Deborah's gonna to show us somebody who acted. Her name was Jael.

Sermon | Sunday Morning Bible Study, September 20, 2026. Guest Preacher: Bill Jack The sermon addresses common objections to the Bible's reliability, such as its age, number of authors, and perceived errors, arguing that these are merely excuses masking a deeper spiritual issue. Drawing from Romans 1, Bill identifies seven habits of those who suppress the truth, including failing to honour God, becoming futile in their thinking, and exchanging divine glory for human or animal images. Through illustrative anecdotes and campus interviews, the text demonstrates how cultural narratives and personal biases lead individuals to reject biblical authority despite evident evidence. It is both convicting and pastoral, challenging the audience to move beyond intellectual defences and engage in bold, grace-filled evangelism. Ultimately, the message calls for a recognition that the primary barrier to faith is not a lack of evidence but a deliberate suppression of truth, urging believers to share the gospel with clarity and confidence. Visit Benoni Bible Church: www.benonibiblechurch.co.za Address: 149 President Brand Rd, Rynfield, Benoni - view on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oag383xq3U2b7RQN6 Copyright © 2026, Benoni Bible Church. All rights reserved.

This sermon examines Paul's address to the Athenians in Acts 17, focusing on the biblical anthropology that all humanity descends from one man and is created to seek God. The speaker highlights Paul's strategic use of Greek poetry as a bridge to communicate the truth of the one true God, contrasting the Athenians' right intuition with their wrong execution of worshiping idols. The central message calls for a change in thinking and a universal repentance, grounded in the assurance of Christ's resurrection and the coming judgment. The tone is instructional and pastoral, urging believers to emulate Paul's method of sharing the gospel with love and wisdom rather than anger or compromise. Ultimately, the sermon emphasizes that while the method of evangelism is important, the core message of salvation through Jesus Christ remains the priority.

We are wrapping up the two-fold narrative of Judges chapter four (and five, which is its song-based summary), and it occurred to me how often God clarifies who the "main actor" of the story is. The way the story is written is very intentional—things that are emphasized and repeated are important, and often the things not directly mentioned (or intentionally left out) are important too. And all along the way, it's vital to recognize who is emphasized as the hero of the story. Israel thought of themselves as the main actor. A pop-level term for this is "main character syndrome," where we consider ourselves the hero of the story (while everyone else is a supporting character at best). This had been Israel's line of thinking, and God has been teaching them that their focus has been quite wrong. Israel is not the hero. Not even the Judges and deliverers who God used are the heroes, at least not ultimately. God is the hero of the story, and He is delivering His people. When we lose sight of this, it throws everything off. We make everything about us, instead of looking to Scripture to first and foremost tell us about God. We begin to look at our lives as our own, instead of remembering that our lives are not our own but belong wholly to Christ. In short, we begin to make ourselves the center of the story... as opposed to remembering that God is the center of the story. And it can often happen without our noticing it, which is why God gives us reminders like the book of Judges. I pray that as we hear from our sister Jael this Sunday, that we would be reminded how great our God is, and how wonderful that He works through His people!

What does it mean to have a heart of stone or a heart of flesh? In this teaching, Pastor Brandon Holthaus continues his study of Hebrew idioms by examining two powerful expressions found in the book of Ezekiel: "They sit before you as My people" from Ezekiel 33:31 and the contrast between a "heart of stone" and a "heart of flesh" in Ezekiel 36:26. Scripture warns that it is possible to hear God's Word, attend church, study the Bible, and outwardly appear devoted while never allowing biblical truth to transform the way we actually live. Jesus asks, "Why do you call Me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do the things which I say?" James gives the same warning when he tells believers to be doers of the Word and not hearers only. Pastor Brandon explores how spiritual hardness develops through repeated resistance to truth, persistent sin, pride, unbelief, idolatry, and an unwillingness to obey. He also explains how fear and other emotions can influence our thinking and decision-making when our minds are not grounded in Scripture. But there is good news: a hardened heart does not have to remain hardened. God desires a heart that is responsive, teachable, and willing to trust Him. Through faith, obedience, and the transforming work of God's Word, believers can grow in spiritual maturity and develop a heart that is increasingly sensitive to His truth. Are we simply hearing the Word of God, or are we allowing it to change us? #Hebraisms #HeartOfStone #HeartOfFlesh #Ezekiel36 #Ezekiel33 #BibleStudy #BiblicalTruth #ChristianLiving #SpiritualGrowth #WordOfGod #BrandonHolthaus #RockHarborChurch