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Introduction: 5 Reasons Pastors Should Be Paid: (1 Corinthians 9:1-14) It's COMMON Sense. (1 Cor 9:7) It's a CONCERN in the Law. (1 Cor 9:8-11) 1 Timothy 5:17-18 - Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain,” and, “The laborer deserves his wages.” It's CLAIMED By Others. (1 Cor 9:12) It's a CUSTOM from the Old Testament. (1 Cor 9:13) It's COMMANDED By Jesus. (1 Cor 9:14) Luke 10:7 – for the laborer deserves his wages. Matthew 10:10 - the laborer deserves his food. Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Audio Transcript 00:36-00:40Open up those Bibles to 1 Corinthians 9.00:44-00:52The title of today's message is, "Should Pastors Be Paid?" Yeah.00:54-00:57I'd like to invite the worship team to come back up as we close.00:58-01:00If you want to worship through giving, the offering.01:04-01:09You're like, "You better earn that pay." Fair, fair.01:09-01:12You know, I was associate pastor for 11 years.01:12-01:16And one of the things that I did was run the Wednesday night program.01:16-01:18It was pioneer clubs like Awana's.01:18-01:26But I'll never forget one girl who was lifelong member of the church from forever.01:26-01:27She the one little girl came up.01:28-01:39She goes, "Pastor Jeff, where do you work?" And I'm not gonna say her name 'cause she's an adult now and might be watching this, but I said, "Well, you know where I work.01:40-01:42"I'm one of the pastors here at the church." She just rolled her eyes.01:42-01:46She goes, "I know that, but I mean, where do you work?01:46-01:49"Like, what's your job?01:49-02:02"Like, what do you do to get paid?" I'm like, "You know, just when you start "to feel pretty good about yourself." Along comes some kid to bring you right back down to earth, right?02:03-02:03Where do you work?02:07-02:09Many people hold that opinion, right?02:10-02:12I mean, being a pastor isn't really work.02:15-02:19You know, my favorite, you only work for one hour a week.02:23-02:24And you know what?02:24-02:25I've heard that so many times.02:25-02:27I'm quick to correct people on that.02:28-02:28I'm like, "No.02:31-02:32I don't work the whole hour.02:34-02:36My part's only like 35 minutes.02:37-02:43I work 35 minutes a week." So should pastors be paid?02:44-02:47When you bring it up, people get weird.02:48-02:49People get weird.02:49-02:51Everybody's evaluating the pastor's car.02:53-02:55Everybody's evaluating the pastor's house.02:55-02:58Everybody's evaluating the pastor's clothes.02:59-03:00How much is he making?03:03-03:05You know nobody does that for other professions, right?03:08-03:18Like for example, if somebody here is a nurse and you pull up to church driving a Boxter, what are people gonna say?03:18-03:20"Good for her, good for her.03:21-03:23Wow, I am so happy for her.03:26-03:31If I drove up driving a Porsche, what are people gonna say?03:35-03:36How much is he making?03:40-03:49I've heard a lot of things over the years, statements people have made, their little evaluations on how pastors should be paid.03:49-03:51I just want to share a couple with you.03:51-03:53Just this is, these amuse me.03:54-03:57But one person told me this regarding how a pastor should be paid.03:58-04:10He said, "A pastor shouldn't make more "than the lowest paid congregant." So we should find out who in the church makes the least and that should determine the pastor's salary.04:13-04:17Because after all, the pastor shouldn't make more than anybody else in the church.04:19-04:20I had one guy tell me this.04:21-04:31He goes, "I have a real problem "with preachers getting paid by the church." And I said, "What's the issue with that?" He goes, "Think about it this way.04:33-04:35"You teach tithing, right?04:35-04:55"10%." I'm like, "I'm following you." He goes, "Okay, so if 10 people give 10%, "now automatically the pastor's making "more than everybody in the church." And I'm like, you're gonna have to back up here 'cause you lost me somewhere on that math.04:57-04:58I mean, does that math work out?05:01-05:02Should pastors be paid?05:04-05:05Awkward.05:05-05:07Right, it's an awkward subject.05:07-05:10Can we just get that under, it's an awkward subject to stand up and preach about.05:10-05:11You're like, well then why are you?05:12-05:17Because we're going through the book of 1 Corinthians and guess what the subject is of this next section that we are going in?05:18-05:24"Should pastors be paid?" Yeah, it's going to be awkward to talk about, but you don't be more awkward than that, skipping it.05:26-05:26Right?05:26-05:29Because didn't God put it in His Word for a reason?05:30-05:31And we don't skip anything here.05:32-05:33So we're going after it.05:34-05:35We're just going to go after it.05:35-05:36Should pastors be paid?05:37-05:39The Bible is clear, yes.05:41-05:50But some ministers, you know, they live lavishly, and they demand that the church pay for the their extravagant lifestyle, and that is wrong.05:52-05:59But we can't just disregard what the Bible says just because some people have abused the privilege.06:02-06:06This section here, we're in 1 Corinthians, it's about liberty.06:08-06:21You're like, "Well, what is liberty?" It's this, you know, to be saved means that you have to turn from your sin and receive Jesus Christ.06:21-06:34And when you receive Him, you believe that Jesus died for your sin, when you believe that Jesus resurrected from the dead, when you believe that, the Bible says you are adopted as a child of God.06:34-06:36And nothing can change that.06:37-06:40Nothing can separate you from the love of God in Jesus Christ.06:41-06:41Nothing.06:42-06:46When you are saved, you are saved as a gift of God's grace.06:47-06:48Nothing can change that.06:51-06:54So understand your salvation is not performance-based.06:56-06:58So that means there's nothing you can do.06:58-07:01If you're saved, there's nothing you can do that would disqualify you from being a child of God.07:01-07:02It's not performance-based.07:04-07:12So the extreme view of that is, well, if it's not performance-based, I'm free to do whatever I want.07:15-07:16And that's what we're looking at in this section.07:17-07:19Am I free to do whatever I want?07:19-07:38Their particular issue, we talked about this last week, was they were, some of the more mature Christians were eating meat that was sacrificed to idols, and they were like, "A burger's a burger." But it bothered some of the weaker Christians who came out of the pagan background and said, You don't want to touch meat that was used in pagan worship.07:39-07:46And Paul says, "Love says, 'I will give up my rights if it keeps a brother from stumbling.'" I'll give up my rights.07:49-08:02So understand here in this section that we're looking at today, Paul is saying, "Corinthians, I'm not asking you to do anything that I'm not willing to do.08:05-08:10Paul is saying here in this section we're looking at, I am laying down a freedom that I have.08:10-08:13I have the freedom to get paid by the church.08:13-08:15And Paul says, I laid that freedom down.08:17-08:23We're going to talk more about that part of it next week, but why would Paul lay that freedom down?08:23-08:25He knew it would bring offense.08:27-08:31You see, he knew that there were going to be some people that thought, "Oh, look at this guy.08:31-08:35There's this new religion and he's using it to cash in.08:35-08:36He's using it just to make money.08:37-08:40He's trying to rip you off." So Paul got a job making tents.08:40-09:03So he's like, "I'm not going to be a financial burden to anybody because I don't want anybody to think that I have an ulterior motive in preaching the gospel." So chapter 9, the section we're looking at today illustrates this whole giving up my liberty issue. I have the freedom to not use my freedom.09:05-09:18All right, let's bow. I'm going to ask you to pray for me to be faithful to communicate God's Word, and I will pray for you to have a heart open to receive it, and then we'll go right after it. Let's just take a moment and pray.09:22-09:23by your name and your word, Father.09:26-09:30We ask you in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior forever.09:31-09:35And all of God's people said, amen.09:36-09:42All right, so the Corinthians are like, hey, we are free in Christ to do what we want.09:42-09:44Look at chapter nine, verse one.09:45-09:46Paul says, am I not free?09:48-09:49Am I not an apostle?09:51-09:52Paul's like, "I'm free.09:53-09:55"I'm free to, you know about your freedom?09:55-10:08"I'm free too." And Paul says, "By the way, I'm not just a pew sitter." Okay, he's like, "I'm an apostle." And as always, when the issue comes up, you're going to have a group of people that were like, "Are you, Paul?10:08-10:09"Are you really an apostle?10:09-10:13"Are you really?" Oh, look at what he says.10:15-10:18"Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?10:18-10:25"Are not you my workmanship in the Lord?" Paul was always defending himself.10:25-10:27And right here he goes, "Yeah, I am an apostle.10:27-10:28"I'll give you two proofs.10:28-10:30"One is the big one.10:30-10:37"To be an apostle, you had to have seen "the resurrected Jesus Christ." And Paul's like, "I've seen him." Like, did Paul see Jesus?10:37-10:39Yeah, at least three times.10:39-10:42Oh, by the way, one of those times was actually in Corinth.10:42-10:43What's that, Acts chapter 18?10:46-10:56Paul says, "I have another proof." He goes, "You want another proof of my apostleship?" He goes, "You, you are my proof." What do you mean by that?10:56-10:57Look at verses two and three.10:58-11:07He says, "If to others I am not an apostle, "at least I am to you, "for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.11:08-11:30"This is my defense to those who would examine me." Paul says, "Some might not believe that I'm apostle, but you cannot deny the way that the Lord has worked through me to you." He says, "You're my seal." See, in those days, if somebody wanted to authenticate a letter, they would put a wax seal with the signet ring.11:31-11:32That was to say, "This is genuine.11:32-11:35This is real." Paul goes, "You want to know that I'm real?11:35-11:48Do you want to know that I'm authentic?" He goes, "You're my proof, because God has ministered the gospel through me to you." These are the evidences that I'm an apostle.11:48-11:53So, verse 4, do we not have the right to eat and drink?11:55-11:57That's obviously sarcasm.11:58-12:03I was like, "Yeah, I'm an apostle and God has used me, so I'm not allowed to eat?" Is that what you're saying?12:06-12:10I've been faithful to your souls, I've been faithful to the Lord, but I don't get to eat?12:11-12:20He's saying, "I don't get to… are you saying that I don't get to earn a living from the work that I do in the Lord?" Look at verse 5.12:24-12:32He says, "Do we not have the right to take along a believing wife, as do the other apostles and the brothers of the Lord and Cephas?12:34-12:39Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working for a living?12:41-12:49Paul's like, "Other ministers are supported." So much so that other ministers actually take their wives along with them.12:50-12:52So you support them.12:56-12:57What about me?12:57-13:00Do I have the right to be supported by the church?13:01-13:03See what Paul's doing here.13:03-13:06in this little introduction, he's setting this all up.13:07-13:19He goes, "This freedom that I am laying down, is it actually a freedom that I have?" As we look at verses 7-14, Paul here is establishing that this is a right.13:19-13:21This is legitimate.13:21-13:25Ministers have the right to be supported by the church.13:25-13:26He's proving that in this section.13:29-13:35And in Paul's day, as in ours, there are people that are going to doubt the premise.13:36-13:38Like, really, should ministers be paid?13:38-13:38Really?13:39-13:40Not sure about that.13:40-13:41Should they, is it really work?13:42-13:4635 minutes, rather, 35 minutes a week, is that really work?13:47-13:48Should we be paying you for that?13:52-13:56Well, Paul gives five reasons why you should pay the pastor.13:57-13:57All right?13:59-14:00"Jot these down.14:00-14:08By the way, you're paying me overtime this week 'cause I spent some extra time making sure these were alliterated.14:09-14:12I don't always do that, but when I do, I charge extra.14:13-14:23And I charge by the word, that's why the sermons are so long." So five reasons a pastor should be paid.14:23-14:24Number one, I love this.14:24-14:26He just knocks this one right out.14:26-14:26It's common sense.14:27-14:28It's common sense.14:28-14:30Look at verse 7.14:32-14:36Paul says, "Who serves as a soldier at his own expense?14:38-14:40Who plants a vineyard without eating any of its fruit?14:41-14:48Or who tends a flock without getting some of the milk?" Obvious point, right?14:49-14:52A man earns his living by his work.14:53-14:55And he gives three examples.14:56-15:00A soldier, a farmer, and a shepherd.15:03-15:09Imagine as Paul calls us to here, imagine doing those jobs at your own expense.15:10-15:11Imagine that.15:11-15:13That's ludicrous, right?15:14-15:14Like what do you do?15:14-15:15I work at Target.15:17-15:17Why do you work at Target?15:18-15:25"Well, just trying to pay the bills so in my free time I can be in the army." Like what?15:26-15:27Paul's like, "Who does that?15:28-15:36That's called a hobby if you're doing it without being compensated.15:36-15:41Their families are fed from the work that they do." So it should be true for pastors.15:41-15:42It's common sense.15:43-15:47should earn from the work that they do.15:50-15:55And I have to add, church, that this is also extremely practical when you think about it.15:55-15:57The church benefits from a focused pastor.16:00-16:05You're going to get your best work from the pastor if he's not distracted.16:06-16:07I mean, think about it.16:07-16:43If the pastor has to provide for his family by working another job, how much gas is left tank to be a pastor. And you're like, "Eh, doesn't look that hard." Well, I want you to think about your job, whatever you do. You're nine to five, whether you work in a bank, work in HVAC, community, you know, some kind of like social service function, think Think of what you do.16:44-16:52When your shift ends, do you feel like you would be able to effectively pastor a church on top of that?16:55-16:59Again, I don't care if you're with the police, a computer programmer.17:00-17:05Imagine working all day doing that, and then you get home and now you've got to write a sermon.17:06-17:07Oh, and you have two counseling appointments.17:07-17:09And make sure you squeeze time in.17:09-17:17you've got to follow up with these new people at church, oh, and then you have a ministry team meeting on top of that.17:17-17:21Are you really going to do all of that on top of your nine to five?17:24-17:25It's common sense.17:26-17:33You see, if a pastor has to work another job, it's easy for him to phone it in when it comes to the church work, right?17:33-17:37Well, I've got to work at Target so that I can pay my bills.17:38-17:39the church stuff is just going to have to wait.17:39-17:42I sure hope they're not expecting a decent sermon this week.17:44-17:45It's just common sense.17:45-17:47People should get wages.17:49-17:52People should benefit from their workplace.17:52-17:53That's where he starts.17:54-17:55It's common sense.17:55-17:58Number two, five reasons pastors should be paid.17:58-18:02Five reasons Paul says this is a right for pastors to be paid.18:02-18:05Number two is it's a concern in the law.18:05-18:06It's a concern in the law.18:09-18:10Like, what do you mean?18:10-18:11Well, look at verse eight.18:12-18:17Paul says, "Do I say these things on human authority?" Like, you think I'm making this up?18:19-18:22He says, "Does not the law say the same?18:23-18:37"For it is written in the law of Moses, "you shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain." That's Deuteronomy 25 verse 4.18:38-18:43Like, what do you mean an ox treading out the grain?18:43-18:47It was actually an Egyptian trick that Israel adopted.18:49-19:01They would tie a big round flat stone to an ox, and they would have the ox drag the stone over the wheat to crush it to remove the husk.19:03-19:13Okay, so you have this ox helping you prepare food, doing this hard work of dragging a stone.19:13-19:19Now how cruel would it be to put a muzzle on the ox while he's doing that?19:19-19:22Like you have to drag the stone, but you're not allowed to eat.19:23-19:27Oh, you're going to stand on top of food all day, but you're not allowed to take a bite.19:28-19:28That's inhumane.19:36-19:37That's the point.19:39-19:41Look at verse 9, second part.19:44-19:56He says, "Is it for oxen that God is concerned?" Does He not speak entirely for our sake?19:57-20:15It was written for our sake, because the plowman should plow in hope, and the thresher thresh in hope of sharing in the crop." See Paul's point, you know, the whole don't muzzle an ox while it's treading out the grain.20:15-20:27Paul's like, "You think God's concerned about the ox?" Look, I don't think God has anything against ox, oxen, oxes, oxen, oxen.20:27-20:28Thank you, Randy.20:28-20:28Oxen.20:28-20:31I don't think God's against oxen.20:31-20:32He created them.20:32-20:33I think God loves oxen.20:34-20:42Paul's like, "Do you think he wrote that in the law for the oxen who are going to be reading the law?" Like, "Hey, wait a second.20:43-20:48You're not supposed to muzzle me while I'm working." I think he didn't write that for the oxen.20:50-20:51But don't do it now.20:51-20:52You can do it later.20:53-20:56You get some time, turn back to that reference in Deuteronomy.20:56-21:01And you're going to see that section of Deuteronomy has nothing to do with animals.21:02-21:05Nothing to do with how to treat the livestock.21:05-21:06It has nothing to do with that.21:07-21:12It has everything to do with people.21:12-21:13And how you treat people.21:15-21:17You see, it's a figure of speech.21:17-21:21We use animals in figures of speech all the time, don't we?21:22-21:25Don't look a gift horse in the mouth, two birds with one stone, all of that.21:25-21:26It was a figure of speech.21:28-21:36And Paul reminds us here, look, when God wrote that through Moses, He wasn't really concerned about the oxen, He was concerned about man.21:38-21:44And the point of that expression is the worker deserves to benefit from his work, obviously, right?21:45-22:02Luke 11, he says, "If we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?" Sown spiritual things.22:05-22:09That's all I'm trying to do for this church.22:10-22:13There are many people in this church that I have led to Christ.22:16-22:23There's many people in this church that I've not only taught the Bible, but I've taught how to teach the Bible.22:25-22:35There are people in this church that I have counseled out of disaster, comforted you and your family at funerals.22:36-22:37I married a lot of people here.22:39-22:45I've come along leaders to try to encourage them in their particular ministries.22:46-22:57None of this is meant to be boastful or "Hey, look at me." I'm just saying objectively, this is what I'm striving to do among you.22:59-23:01So is it out of line to support me in doing those things?23:03-23:05Am I asking too much?23:07-23:10Or do you see no value in anything that I do?23:12-23:16Now look, I am so thankful.23:16-23:18This church has always supported me and my family.23:20-23:24And I am so thankful to God for you and your support.23:27-23:34It would absolutely grieve me though if you thought that I wasn't worth it.23:35-23:43Like, yeah, we'll support him, but I mean, does he really bring something to the table?23:48-23:57Some churches, well, they do justify no pay or meager pay for the pastors.23:58-23:59Some churches justify that.23:59-24:01You can't pay the pastor very much.24:01-24:01Why?24:02-24:04Gotta keep 'em humble, right Pastor Taylor?24:06-24:07Gotta keep 'em humble.24:07-24:11Pastor Taylor gets paid two Kit Kats a week, that's all he gets from the church.24:12-24:14Because we're gonna keep 'em humble.24:16-24:18We don't want 'em to get swollen head.24:19-24:21So we gotta keep 'em humble.24:21-24:30Listen, that is an unbiblical mindset, completely backwards to what the Bible says about the way you treat your pastor.24:31-24:32Right?24:34-24:371 Timothy 5, look what Paul told Timothy.24:38-24:50He says, "Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching." You know what he means by double honor?24:51-24:55He doesn't mean like, thank you, thank you.24:58-24:58Great job, great job.24:58-24:59That's not what he means at all.25:00-25:02You look at the context, he's talking about pay.25:04-25:07He's saying you should double my pay.25:09-25:11You get the point there, right?25:12-25:14Not keep them humble.25:14-25:17He's like, those who preach the word of God deserve double honor.25:18-25:24He says, for the scripture says, you shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain.25:25-25:29and the laborer deserves his wages.25:33-25:37And right now some Bible scholar is like, oh, okay, don't muzzle the ox.25:38-25:40Okay, Pastor Jeff, that's Old Testament.25:40-25:42We don't live under the Old Testament.25:45-25:52Well, we abide under the principles of the law, especially when they're repeated in the New Testament.25:53-25:53All right?25:54-25:55The five reasons pastors should be paid.25:56-25:58Paul says it's common sense.25:58-25:59It's a concern in the law.25:59-26:01Number three, write this down, it's claimed by others.26:02-26:04It's claimed by others.26:07-26:21Verse 12, he says, "If others share this rightful claim on you, do not we even more?" Paul's like, "Oh, by the way, it's not weird or unusual.26:23-26:25In fact, there's precedent for it.26:27-26:27Right?26:28-26:30Many of you do support others.26:31-26:39And you should, but there's many people here that you're like, I support certain missionaries or I support world vision, or I support Samaritan's Purse.26:39-26:41I support all these people.26:41-26:46And Paul here is just simply saying, hey, what about the shepherd who has devoted his life to caring for you?26:47-26:47What about that guy?26:48-26:49Should he be paid?26:49-26:50Should he be supported?26:53-27:03And my whole life revolves around caring for you, praying for you, discipling you.27:06-27:15And some people are like, "Well, you know, I listen to such and such preacher on the Facebooks or the YouTubes or whatever.27:15-27:22I listen to Jack Hibbs, so my tithe goes to Jack Hibbs." Okay.27:28-27:32But when you need counseling, do you think Jack Hibbs is going to come and counsel you?27:34-27:39You know, if you have a tragedy, do you think Jack Hibbs is going to be at your house to pray for you, pray with you?27:42-27:43Does Jack Hibbs even know who you are?27:46-27:46That's Paul's point here.27:47-27:49Paul's like, "Others share the rightful claim.27:49-28:12"You support others." Paul's like, "How can you not support the one who loves you?" He goes on in verse 12, he goes, "Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, "but we endure anything rather than put an obstacle "in the way of the gospel of Christ." That's the whole point of broaching the subject.28:13-28:25We have the freedom to get paid, but Paul says, "I laid that freedom down." Just as I'm telling you to do about eating the meat sacrifice to the idols, it's okay.28:25-28:28It's okay to lay your freedom down sometimes.28:30-28:32We're going to get into that more next week.28:33-28:36This week though, he's giving us five reasons a preacher should be paid.28:36-28:39And here's number four, it's a custom from the Old Testament.28:40-28:46It's common sense, it's a concern in the law, it's claimed by others, and it's a custom from the Old Testament.28:47-28:48Look at verse 13.28:49-29:03He says, "Do you not know that those who are employed in the temple service get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in the sacrificial offerings.29:06-29:09Do a little study sometime, Old Testament law.29:09-29:16In the Old Testament, priests were supported for their work by their work.29:18-29:26All of the sacrifices that were given under Old Testament law realized the priest received a portion of what was offered in some way, shape, or form.29:26-29:27That's what Paul's talking about here.29:31-29:41And I was studying this this week, and I'm like, why did he sort of, he kind of said that in verse seven, right?29:42-29:43The same thing.29:43-29:46So why did he bring this up again?29:46-29:47And then it hit me.29:50-29:54Verse seven, he gave secular examples.29:56-29:57You know, the soldier, the farmer, the shepherd.29:57-29:59He gave secular examples.29:59-30:23And there are some in the church that would say, "Okay, Paul, you're using secular reasoning and you're trying to apply it to the spiritual realm." And I think what Paul's doing here is saying, "Look, yes, this principle, you should be supported for the work that you do, by your work." It's true in the secular world and it's true in the sacred world too.30:23-30:25So Paul's like, "Don't act like this is a new thing.30:26-30:31supporting the spiritual leaders, because it's a custom that goes way back to the Old Testament.30:35-30:40Number five, five reasons pastors should be paid.30:41-30:45It's common sense, it's a concern in the law, it's claimed by others, it's a custom from the Old Testament.30:46-30:57Last and probably most important, I would say, I think that's why it's last, it's commanded by Jesus.31:00-31:01It's commanded by Jesus.31:02-31:17Look at verse 14, "In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel." Wait a minute, when did Jesus say that?31:18-31:20Well, He said that a couple of times.31:21-31:34In Luke chapter 10, Jesus was sending out the 72 and He was talking about, you can look this up later, the people that believe you should be the ones that feed you.31:34-31:41So Jesus in sending them out said, "For the laborer deserves his wages." What's the context of that?31:42-32:06And again in Matthew 10, verse 10, Jesus was sending out the twelve, and He says, "The people that believe you should be the people who support you." And that's why He said, "The laborer deserves his food." In both cases, Jesus was saying those who preach the gospel must be supported by those who believe the gospel.32:07-32:14In other words, believers, we could say church members, should financially support their leaders.32:17-32:23If you're a guest here today, I want you to understand you're under no obligation to give.32:24-32:29Don't feel guilty or like, "Well, I probably should." If you're a guest, be our guest.32:31-32:32There's zero obligation.32:35-32:37is something that we are to share as a church family.32:39-32:39All right?32:43-32:45But nevertheless, the Lord commanded it.32:46-32:48Those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.32:50-33:01So Paul, in this whole section, is saying as a minister of the gospel, I have every right to expect you to support me, but I laid that right down.33:03-33:19I thought it might be an obstacle to the work, so because I love you, I didn't take financial support from you." Paul's like, "I'm trying to show you something, that when you love, you're willing to lay down your rights.33:21-33:56When you love, you're willing to lay down your freedoms." Paul is just simply saying, as we'll see next week, "Follow my example." Right now you're like, "Okay, pay the pastor, fine." Well my hope is not that you reluctantly get on board with giving, but I want you to see the bigger picture of why you give.33:57-34:00Yes, giving primarily is an act of worship.34:00-34:01We've had a whole sermon series about that.34:02-34:03Giving is an act of worship.34:04-34:08But also I want you to think about the tangible effects of giving.34:11-34:14When you give, my family is supported.34:16-34:22And that frees me from trying to do ministry on top of a nine to five job.34:22-34:25It lets me stay focused on caring for you.34:25-34:35Understand that when you give, look at the big picture, you're freeing me up so that I can care for everybody in this church to the best of my ability.34:39-34:39Everyone benefits.34:41-34:44When you give, other staff are paid.34:44-34:47That allows us to worship in excellent music.34:48-35:07It helps us disciple your children and young adults to minister on a personal level through the oversight of our entire small group ministry and so many more things that are able to happen that couldn't happen if you weren't financially supporting the leadership of the church.35:09-35:15Oh, oh, oh, and when you give, understand that you're supporting a whole network of ministers in Thailand.35:17-35:30Do you know in northern Thailand and beyond, we have 23 churches, we have four children's homes, we have a Bible institute, and do you know how many people stateside support them?35:33-35:34Just this church.35:35-35:49You, when you give, you are allowing the work of evangelism happen all over that area of the world through our network of churches.35:52-35:55Disciples are made all over Northern Thailand and beyond.35:57-36:08When you give, that is your way of actively partnering with me in advancing the kingdom of Jesus Christ.36:10-36:12I'd like you to bow your heads as the worship team makes their way up.36:16-36:29Father in heaven, it felt awkward to have to give a message like this, but God, it's your word.36:29-36:30We don't skip anything.36:32-36:34We just want to go after what you said.36:35-36:46Father, I thank you for the way that this church has always sought to support me and my family.36:48-36:53Financially sure, but so many other ways this church has sought to bless and protect my family.36:54-36:55God, I thank you so much for these people.36:56-36:58This is from you, God, and I thank you for that.36:59-37:11I just pray, Father, that looking at a passage like this, you would give us sort of a bigger picture of the way your economy works and why you have called us to certain things that you've called us to.37:15-37:24God, we believe that all things are yours, and we believe, God, that you have called us to be faithful stewards with everything that you give us.37:27-37:32We thank you for the privilege and all the ways that you've called us to partner with you in the work of the ministry.37:33-37:38Thank You, Father, for the spirit of generosity that You have stirred among Your people here.37:39-37:47And as King David prayed in preparation for the temple, might that spirit always be found in Your people.37:48-37:50We pray in Jesus' name, amen. Small Group DiscussionRead 1 Corinthians 9:1-14What was your big take-away from this passage / message?Explain why Paul broaches the subject of paying the pastor in the first place. What does that have to do with their question about Christian liberty?What are some practical benefits that come when a pastor doesn't have to work outside the church?How would you respond to someone who says, “Pastors should have a job like everyone else! It's not fair that the pastor has money when some people in the congregation are struggling financially.”BreakoutPray for one another.

CLICK HERE FOR LINK TO SERMON HANDOUT   Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany Old Testament: Isaiah 58:1-9a, (9b-12) 1Shout out, do not hold back! Lift up your voice like a trumpet! Announce to my people their rebellion, to the house of Jacob their sins. 2Yet day after day they seek me and delight to know my ways, as if they were a nation that practiced righteousness and did not forsake the ordinance of their God; they ask of me righteous judgments, they delight to draw near to God. 3"Why do we fast, but you do not see? Why humble ourselves, but you do not notice?" Look, you serve your own interest on your fast day, and oppress all your workers. 4Look, you fast only to quarrel and to fight and to strike with a wicked fist. Such fasting as you do today will not make your voice heard on high. 5Is such the fast that I choose, a day to humble oneself? Is it to bow down the head like a bulrush, and to lie in sackcloth and ashes? Will you call this a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord? 6Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of injustice, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? 7Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover them, and not to hide yourself from your own kin? 8Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up quickly; your vindicator shall go before you, the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. 9Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry for help, and he will say, Here I am. [If you remove the yoke from among you, the pointing of the finger, the speaking of evil,10if you offer your food to the hungry and satisfy the needs of the afflicted, then your light shall rise in the darkness and your gloom be like the noonday. 11The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in parched places, and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters never fail. 12Your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to live in.] Psalm: Psalm 112:1-9, (10) 1 Hallelujah!   Happy are they who fear the Lord *        and have great delight in his commandments! 2 Their descendants will be mighty in the land; *        the generation of the upright will be blessed. 3 Wealth and riches will be in their house, *        and their righteousness will last for ever. 4 Light shines in the darkness for the upright; *        the righteous are merciful and full of compassion. 5 It is good for them to be generous in lending *        and to manage their affairs with justice. 6 For they will never be shaken; *        the righteous will be kept in everlasting remembrance. 7 They will not be afraid of any evil rumors; *        their heart is right;        they put their trust in the Lord. 8 Their heart is established and will not shrink, *        until they see their desire upon their enemies. 9 They have given freely to the poor, *        and their righteousness stands fast for ever;        they will hold up their head with honor. [10 The wicked will see it and be angry;      they will gnash their teeth and pine away; *        the desires of the wicked will perish.] Epistle: 1 Corinthians 2:1-12, (13-16) 1When I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come proclaiming the mystery of God to you in lofty words or wisdom. 2For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3And I came to you in weakness and in fear and in much trembling. 4My speech and my proclamation were not with plausible words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of the Spirit and of power, 5so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God. 6Yet among the mature we do speak wisdom, though it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to perish. 7But we speak God's wisdom, secret and hidden, which God decreed before the ages for our glory. 8None of the rulers of this age understood this; for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9But, as it is written, "What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him"— 10these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. 11For what human being knows what is truly human except the human spirit that is within? So also no one comprehends what is truly God's except the Spirit of God. 12Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit that is from God, so that we may understand the gifts bestowed on us by God. [13And we speak of these things in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual things to those who are spiritual.14Those who are unspiritual do not receive the gifts of God's Spirit, for they are foolishness to them, and they are unable to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. 15Those who are spiritual discern all things, and they are themselves subject to no one else's scrutiny. 16"For who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ.] Gospel: Matthew 5:13-20 13"You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot. 14"You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. 15No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.16In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. 17"Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. 18For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. 19Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Drift never announces itself.No one plans to walk away from God — it happens quietly, subtly, over time.In this message from our series in the book of Jude, we explore a sobering but hope-filled warning to believers: those who have genuinely experienced God's salvation can still drift if faith is not guarded intentionally.

Write this down: Cults demand — Christians demonstrate.Matthew 5:16In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.1. You are always influencingProverbs 27:17Iron sharpens iron, and one person sharpens another.2. Be intentional about influencingColossians 4:5Act wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the time.3. Use your influence as a gift to God.1 Peter 2:12Conduct yourselves honorably among the Gentiles, so that when they slander you as evildoers, they will observe your good works and will glorify God on the day he visits.4. Your life gets better as your influence gets bigger.Philippians 2:14-16Do everything without grumbling and arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God who are faultless in a crooked and perverted generation, among whom you shine like stars in the world, by holding firm to the word of life.Next Steps: Believe: I need Jesus to change my heart for the first time today.Become: I want the Holy Spirit to influence my soul this week. Be Sent: I will use my influence for God's glory this week. Discussion Questions: What's the difference between influencing someone and manipulating them, and where do you personally draw the line?When is it appropriate to try to change someone's mind, and when is it better to step back?How does trust shape your ability to influence another person?Describe a time when someone influenced you positively. What made their approach effective?Is it acceptable to use your influence at work to challenge someone's faith?What responsibilities do you have to God when trying to influence someone's decisions or beliefs?Pray for the Holy Spirit to help you influence one person this week.  

“All things were created through Him and for Him.” – Colossians 1:16In this timely and powerful New Year message, Pastor Casey launches our new series, “What We Do,” with a foundational teaching on what it means to truly honor God with our lives. In a culture shaped by expressive individualism—where we're taught to center everything around ourselves—this sermon calls us back to a Christ-centered life.Using Colossians 1:15-20, Pastor Casey unpacks the truth that we were not created to be the heroes of our own stories. We were made by Jesus and for Jesus. Honoring God isn't simply one part of our spiritual life—it is the very purpose of our existence.This message challenges us to evaluate whether Jesus is just another priority on our list, or the center of everything. You'll be invited to move from self-centered faith to a life marked by worship, obedience, and active participation in God's redemptive work in the world.Whether you're resetting your focus for a new year, or exploring what it means to follow Jesus more fully, this sermon will both convict and encourage you to lay down the pressure of self-definition and embrace the freedom of living for God's glory.Key themes in this message include:Why honoring God is more than a behavior—it's a lifestyle of alignmentHow self-focused faith leads to fragility and dissatisfactionThe difference between placing Jesus first and making Him the centerThree ways we honor God: through worship, obedience, and joining Him in missionHow to discern where God is already at work and how to respondThis is a message for anyone feeling spiritually scattered, overwhelmed by expectations, or hungry for deeper purpose and direction. It's an invitation to reframe life, not around your plans, but around God's greater story.We pray this message encourages you to begin 2026 not with resolutions, but with a reorientation toward Jesus as Lord, King, and Center.Watch, reflect, and respond.To learn more about Grace City Church or connect with our team, visit www.gracecityeugene.com#HonorGod #WhatWeDo #PastorCasey #GraceCityChurch #Colossians1 #FaithCenteredOnChrist #ChristianSermon #GospelMessage #JesusIsPreeminent #NewYearSermon #WorshipObedienceMission

ADVENT WEEK TWO: PEACEDecember 13 Rev. Mike MillerThe Peace of Advent2 Thessalonians 3:1-17Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways.The Lord be with all of you. 2 Thessalonians 3:16In the midst of Advent, when the world is often rushing toward Christmas withfull-speed anticipation, this prayer in 2 Thessalonians 3:16 brings a gentle re-minder that peace is not something we find by striving or planning, but some-thing that God gifts to us, in every season and at all times.This blessing over the Thessalonians is a prayer for divine peace to floodtheir hearts, not just in moments of quiet, but in every circumstance, whetherin moments of joy or in trials. And as we await the coming of Christ, we, too,are invited to experience this peace. The Lord of peace is with us, and offerspeace that isn't dependent on external circumstances.Advent is a time of longing for the peace that Jesus brings into a brokenworld. The Prince of Peace came not as a distant figure, but as Emmanuel,God with us. His presence offers a peace that goes beyond mere tranquility.It's a peace that holds us steady in uncertainty, calms our hearts in worry, andreassures us in fear. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.” - John 13:16In the land of the blind, the one-eyed man is king. We live in strange times, where mythology is actually history, where instead of teaching history, we obfuscate it, history is written by the victors as they say. If it can be destroyed by the truth, it deserves to be destroyed. Join me around the digital campfire as we explore the cosmos, and uncover hidden gnosis. LINKSJoin this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoCGItGjnTXKeRk4PHcQ8AQ/joinPatreon:https://www.patreon.com/LibraryofgnosisPaypal:https://paypal.me/LibraryofGnosis?country.x=SE&locale.x=sv_SEYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/LibraryofGnosis/ Odyssey:https://odysee.com/@Library_of_Gnosis:eFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/Library-of-Gnosis-102241851413980/Bitchute:https://www.bitchute.com/channel/mvPf2ntAUShO/Rumble:https://rumble.com/c/c-1387156 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5Nr8DYq9PhhcIzEaMQcquB?si=FsNuxvo9TsqxXwu-Ge32fgApple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/library-of-gnosis/id1608143632

Christ Has Come – Week 1Episode Title: The Promised King & His Gift of Hope*Matthew 1:1–6, 16In this Advent episode of the Refresh & Restore podcast, Keith Harris walks through Matthew's genealogy and helps us see how God threads the gift of hope through the real, messy stories of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba. These women—outsiders, sinners, the broken, and the overlooked—are intentionally highlighted in the lineage of Jesus to show that the promised King came for people just like them…and just like us.Together, we explore:Why Matthew includes four unexpected women in Jesus's family line—and how their presence highlights God's grace.The difference between vague, anxious human hope and solid, biblical hope rooted in the promises of God (Heb. 10:23).How God's faithfulness shines through human sin and suffering, bringing His redemptive purposes to pass through Tamar's tragedy, Rahab's past, Ruth's loss, and Bathsheba's sorrow.How these stories point us to Jesus, the Redeemer who came into a broken world to save broken people (Luke 19:10).The invitation of Advent: to wait with expectation, rest in the faithfulness of Christ, and cling to the hope secured through His coming, His cross, and His promised return.This episode reminds us that Jesus didn't avoid human brokenness—He entered it, redeeming every story touched by sin with His mercy, and offering real, lasting hope to all who call on Him (Rom. 10:9, 13).If you would like to see a written version of this study, complete with footnotes and cross-references, you can find it here.

2 Peter series message 9Text: II Peter 2:10b-16In the previous message, we saw that false prophets and teachers will be judged. Now Peter goes into detail about how these false teachers operate - while acting like a brother or sister in Christ within the local church. We have to be aware that there are wolves in sheep's clothing. Perhaps the greater danger is wandering from the truth of God's word and slowly becoming desensitized to the lies and even embracing them over time.

Handfuls on Purpose!"When Ruth got up to glean, Boaz ordered his young men, “Even if she gathers among the sheaves, do not insult her. Rather, pull out for her some stalks from the bundles and leave them for her to gather. Do not rebuke her.” Ruth 2:15-16In life's grand tapestry, there are moments woven together with threads of intention and grace. Just as in Ruth 2:16, where Boaz thoughtfully instructs his workers to leave behind handfuls of barley for Ruth, we, too, can cultivate awareness of the "on-purpose" kindnesses surrounding us each day. This intentional act of generosity serves as a reminder that blessings often come from unexpected places, like grains scattered intentionally across a field.Consider how a seed, when planted, grows into a vibrant flower, bringing beauty to the world. Similarly, each act of kindness — whether a warm smile from a stranger or a word of encouragement from a friend — is like a seed planted in the garden of our hearts. These acts flourish under a sky of grace, reminding us that we are truly never alone. The smallest gestures can make a significant impact, nourishing our spirits in ways we may not immediately recognize.Proverbs 19:17 says, "Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender."The story of Ruth and Boaz beautifully illustrates that God's provisions are rarely random; they are part of His divine design. Just as Ruth gleaned from the fields of Boaz and discovered blessings beyond what she expected, we too can open our eyes to the abundance around us. Each day presents opportunities to receive and give kindness, like a river flowing abundantly, providing for all who draw near to its banks.As we navigate through life, let us carry a heart attuned to the “on-purpose” kindnesses that await us. In Hebrews 13:16, Apostle Paul said, “Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Much like the barley left for Ruth, these gifts of kindness can inspire hope and spark joy, reminding us of the love that surrounds us every single day. Amen. Matthew 5:7 says, "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." Amen.Prayer for the Day! Heavenly Father, thank You for the countless blessings You place in our path every day. Help us to recognize the “handfuls” of provision and kindness you drop along our way. May we not only receive these gifts but also be vessels of Your love, spreading kindness intentionally to others. Guide our hearts to be open and aware, embracing the abundance of Your grace. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

"Send Us A Message"Luke 10:10-16In this episode of the One Truth podcast, Josh continues in Luke 10, focusing on the sending out of the 70 disciples and the importance of repentance. He discusses the warnings given to those who reject the gospel, drawing parallels to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah as a cautionary example for Biblical times and us today. The episode emphasizes the need for humility and faith in approaching God, highlighting the significance of the gospel call to repentance.Sodom & Gomorrah References:Genesis 18-19Isaiah 1:9, 13:19Deuteronomy 29:23Jeremiah 23:14, 49:18, 50:40Amos 4:11Zephaniah 2:9 Matthew 10:15, 11:23Romans 9:29Jude 72 Peter 2:6-9, 10-22To subscribe for The One Truth Articles, click the link The One Truth | Substack to have them sent directly to your email.Also go and like & follow The One Truth Social Media Pages on Facebook and X, or click "Send Us A Message" above to get them directly emailed to you as they become available.

Salt and Light 13You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. 14You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that[a]they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

A Better Country: Hebrews 11:8–16In this episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane continue through Hebrews 11 by looking at the faith of Abraham, Sarah, and the patriarchs. These verses highlight what it means to live as strangers and exiles on earth while longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Through their stories, Jamie and Jane unpack how faith calls us to trust God's promises, even when they seem far off, and to fix our eyes on the eternal home He has prepared. This conversation will inspire you to live with faith that looks forward, not just around.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

Don't Begrudge God's Generosity to Others - Matthew 19:20-20:16In today's passage we will see Jesus start with the pride of the twelve and rebuke in advance any believer who would judge later believers for not being as much of an ‘OB'(‘original believer') as themselves.Matthew 19:20-20:16The context of the parable: Jesus' teaching on rewards - 19:27-30In the Bible “Fors” and “Therefores” connect the thought we just read with the thought coming.J-O-Y comes from putting Jesus first, Others second, and Yourself third.We might have expected Jesus to blast Peter for self-interest in 19:27. Instead Jesus stated in 19:28 that in the coming “New Genesis,” the Twelve will be uniquely rewarded for following Jesus.Here Jesus teaches that when He reigns on earth, the 12, all of whom were Jewish in background will have special roles judging, or leading, the restored 12 tribes of Israel. (Zecheriah 12-13; Acts 1:6-11; Rev. 19-20).What I love about Matthew 19:29 is that it teaches that anything we might consider to be sacrifices for faithfully serving Jesus are really investments that will be rewarded with a hundred-fold return-on-investment in the ages to come.On the one hand, all believers will be rewarded in ages to come for what they do for Jesus in the age they live in. On the other hand, we should never begrudge other believers for also being generously rewarded.The Master is always adding workers to His great work - 20:1-7Now remember that every parable doesn't teach every aspect of Christian truth. This parable is not telling us how to be saved like John 3:16 & Eph. 2:8-10. Here Jesus is teaching them not to be jealous of other believers.The key thing to notice in the first part of the parable is that God is always looking to add more workers to the work in His vineyard!God invites all believers to appreciate how wonderful grace is - V. 8-15Jesus gave His story this shock ending to rebuke in advance any believer who would judge later believers for not being as much of an ‘OB'(‘original believer') as themselves.Two great applications from the generosity of our Lord:1. Hell really will be awful for all that refuse to repent and turn to Jesus. In comparison, all who believe and go to Heaven will be astoundingly rewarded as they get to live with Jesus forever. Be excited for all who believe, no matter how late they ‘sign up.'2. All who began a work for Christ or become instrumental in part of that work must not treat as second class citizens all those the Lord incudes in the work as it continues on – we will all be in Heaven together.

Join us for this week's sermon!Whether you're seeking hope, direction, or a deeper connection with God, this message is for you. Each week, we open God's Word together to find truth, encouragement, and strength for the journey.

July 20th, 2025 | The Love of God | 1 John 4:7-16In this heartfelt message, Craig Connor steps in to share a powerful reflection on the nature of God's love from 1 John 4:7–16. Drawing from personal experience, biblical truth, and the chiastic structure of Scripture, Craig unpacks what it means to be truly known and deeply loved by God.What does God see when He looks at you? What would He say about you right now? These are the questions that frame today's message, leading us to explore the depths of God's love—revealed in Jesus, extended to the undeserving, and perfected when we love one another.You'll learn:How God's love is defined by willing, self-sacrifice for our good.Why receiving Jesus is inseparable from experiencing God's love.The difference between knowing God's love and abiding in it.How the Spirit empowers us to love others—even when it costs us.The hope and invitation extended to everyone who hasn't yet believed.Whether you're new to faith, struggling to feel God's affection, or desiring to grow in love toward others, this episode offers both challenge and encouragement: God desires you. He delights in you. And His love changes everything.“God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” – 1 John 4:16Do you know JESUS?: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nblongview.org/do-you-know-jesus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need PRAYER?: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nblongview.org/pray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SUPPORT through giving: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbbctx.org/giving⁠⁠

Text: Ephesians 4:1-16In this mini-series we will examine what community looks and what it means to build Jesus' Church together.Come visit us in person! To learn more about our church visit: https://www.wearebethany.com THIS SERMON CAN BE VIEWED ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqmshgH0JLqxzRXiEr2QktQ Worship Service of Bethany Baptist Church (Wendell, NC/Raleigh, NC) July 13, 2025Worship Service of Bethany Baptist Church (Wendell, NC/Raleigh, NC) Come visit us in person! To learn more about our church visit: https://www.wearebethany.comFollow us on Facebook and Instagram

Fearfully and WonderfullyPsalm 139:14-16In this special bonus episode, we look briefly at these very important verses from Psalm 139, verses 14-16, – to make a prophetic statement on events that have occurred over the past few days in our sovereign UK parliament, when MPs voted in strength for an amendment which will in certain circumstances, make legal the abortion of babies up to the moment of birth. In such times as these, we would want to raise a standard, publicly, for biblical truth and Christian ethics. Read the NOTES HERE.Recorded live at Templepatrick Reformed Church, and reproduced here with their kind permission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sermon by Brandon Clements on June 22, 2025.Key scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:1-16In a culture chasing status and striving to measure up, Solomon's words in Ecclesiastes 4 point us to a richer life—one found in relational depth, not personal gain.

Sermon by Ant Frederick on June 22, 2025.Key scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:1-16In a culture chasing status and striving to measure up, Solomon's words in Ecclesiastes 4 point us to a richer life—one found in relational depth, not personal gain.

In John 11, we step into a scene filled with grief, confusion, and what seems like divine delay. Lazarus is sick. His sisters are desperate. And yet… Jesus waits.Why?This message explores the purpose behind Jesus' pause—and how God's delays are never wasted. We look at the rising tension in Jesus' ministry, His deep love for a hurting family, and His sovereign timing in the middle of crisis.What looks like silence is actually strategy. What feels like absence is full of purpose.Jesus didn't delay because He didn't care. He delayed because He loved.

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, giving everyone in the house light. Similarly, let your light shine before others so they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16In a world often shrouded in darkness and despair, your light can shine brighter than you realize. The Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:14-16 calls us to be the light of the world, illuminating the path for others. Imagine being that beacon of hope, guiding those around you through their struggles and uncertainties. When you embrace your role as a source of light, you not only uplift yourself but also inspire those who may be lost or weary."Be the gentle breeze that carries whispers of joy and peace to weary souls." This profound statement encourages us to share kindness and compassion freely. In our daily interactions, we have the opportunity to be that soothing balm for others, lifting their spirits and easing their burdens. Remember, even the smallest act of kindness can create ripples of change in someone's life. As Proverbs 16:24 says, "Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."Consider how your unique gifts can serve as a light in the lives of others. Whether it's through a smile, a helping hand, or simply being present, each action matters. We fulfill our divine purpose when we align our intentions with love and generosity. Philippians 2:15 encourages us to "shine like stars in the universe" as we hold out the word of life. Let your heart overflow with hope and positivity, allowing your light to reach those who need it most.As we move forward, let us remember the power we hold to make a difference. Each day presents an opportunity to be that spark of hope for someone else. In moments of doubt or fear, lean on the promise in Isaiah 41:10: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God." Trust that you are equipped to be a source of strength and encouragement. Proverbs 18:21 says, "Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit."Prayer for the Day! Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to be lights in this world. Help us to embrace our roles with grace and courage. May our actions reflect Your love and bring comfort to those around us. Guide us to uplift others and spread hope wherever we go. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen. https://maglife.org/

Key Verses: Romans 16:1-16In sending greetings to various individuals, Paul mentions their special service.

Send us a textPlease Note: This is a continuation of yesterdays longer two part episode. Episode Title: Self-Righteousness and The Wrath of God - Part Two Scripture: Romans 2:1-16In this episode, I continue my deep dive into Paul's teachings on divine judgment and wrath. I explore the distinction between present and future wrath and the impartiality of God's judgment. The role of works—not as a means of salvation, but as evidence of true faith.Paul makes it clear that God's judgment is based on truth, reality, and our response to the light we've received. No one will escape His justice, but through Christ, there is hope. The kindness of God leads us to repentance, and true faith in Him transforms how we live.Join us as we unpack this amazing but difficult passage and its implications for our daily walk with God.

Psalm 81 WorksheetAs we read Psalm 81, look for clues about what this Psalm was written for. Also look for the place the Psalm switches to God being the one speaking.Asaph's call to Festival worship V. 1-3The opening 3 verses have ______ commands calling the people to the praise of the Festival, making this a Praise psalm.When Jacob is used for Israel instead of Israel, it is often a not so subtle _________________________ of where they came from – sinful Jacob became Israel because of what God had done in his life.Jacob's name can mean to be behind or supplanter. It was given to him at birth when he grabbed his twin brother's heel in the womb as they came out; That's a great name for one who later wrestled with God and had his name changed to Israel, which means “one who struggles with God.” The root consonant of ‘struggle' in Hebrew is SYR; For Israel it is ‘YSR.'Israel's lunar calendar meant their festivals coincided with moon ________________. The new moon was by definition the first of the month.Also in the day of your gladness, in your appointed feasts, and at the beginning of your months, you shall blow the trumpets over your burnt offerings and over the sacrifice of your peace offerings; and they shall be a memorial for you before your God: I am the LORD your God. -Numbers 10:10Yahweh's _________________________ of His deliverance V. 4-7Verses 4-5 seem to confirm the statute referred to is the ______________________ Festival, since it was actually commanded before they actually left Egypt (Exodus 12). That would mean “He” going throughout the land of Egypt would be a reference to the LORD's judgment in the tenth plague.The reference to Joseph in verse 5 seems to be a reference to Joseph's role in preserving Jacob's sons/ Joseph's brothers in Egypt during the famine described at the end of Joseph. Alternatively, it could mean this Psalm was written with the Northern tribes in mind during the time of the divided kingdom (922-722 B.C.) That would mean the Psalm is urging the north not to reject God's design for the entire country.Verse 7 covers the time that Israel wandered for 40 years in the wilderness. God led them, even though they were often stubborn and ungrateful. Time after time He delivered them and answered them “thunderously.” They tested Him and He proved Himself faithful and holy. He tested them and they showed themselves ______________________ and sinful.These are the waters of Meribah, where the people quarreled with the LORD, and through them He showed Himself holy. -Numbers 20:13Yahweh's ___________________________ to His people V. 8-16In verses 8-9 God reminds Israel of the call in the 10 commands to worship Him alone, not ________________________.In verse 10 God is telling them that He delivered them in the past, and provided for their needs – He is the _________________________ God who did that!Verse 11 has to be among the saddest statements in the Bible. No doubt they wanted God's protection and blessing, but they didn't want God _______________________. I wonder how many professing Christians that is also true about.Where in the New Testament do we read the words, “God gave them over?”___________________________God's judgment of sin begins by letting people do the sinful things they are bound and determined to do, and experience the built-in ___________________________ of those sins.Proverbs 14:12God makes clear in verse 14 that if they return to Him He will take care of their ___________________.Verse 15 is a good Old Testament verse for the _______________________ punishment of the those who don't turn to God.The Psalm ends with an additional blessing promised – If people listen to God, turn back to Him, and walk in His ways, He won't just take care of their troubles but He will provide for their needs, fully _________________________ them.

Jeremiah 33:14-16 14 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. 15In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David, and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. 16In those days Judah will be saved, and Jerusalem will dwell securely. And this is the name by which it will be called: ‘The Lord is our righteousness.'

“ So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” - Hebrews 4:16In life, it's tempting to feel alone when things go wrong, like no one else has ever experienced exactly what we are feeling. However, when Jesus came to earth, He experienced everything it meant to be human - the joys, sorrows, temptation, loss and hardship. Jesus knows exactly how we feel and what we are going through everyday, and He is asking us to go to him with all our worries and emotions and to take His grace and compassion, for he knows us intimately and wants to be with us.To support the ministry of Melbourne Inclusive Church go to: https://www.michurch.org.au/your-giftMelbourne Inclusive Church boldly and proudly proclaims Christ's equal love for all people regardless of their ability, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, age, gender, race, ethnicity, or culture.Melbourne Inclusive Church is part of the EMI Global family of churches.

Reading I1 Kgs 17:10-16In those days, Elijah the prophet went to Zarephath.As he arrived at the entrance of the city,a widow was gathering sticks there; he called out to her,"Please bring me a small cupful of water to drink." She left to get it, and he called out after her,"Please bring along a bit of bread." She answered, "As the LORD, your God, lives,I have nothing baked; there is only a handful of flour in my jarand a little oil in my jug. Just now I was collecting a couple of sticks,to go in and prepare something for myself and my son;when we have eaten it, we shall die." Elijah said to her, "Do not be afraid. Go and do as you propose.But first make me a little cake and bring it to me. Then you can prepare something for yourself and your son. For the LORD, the God of Israel, says,'The jar of flour shall not go empty,nor the jug of oil run dry,until the day when the LORD sends rain upon the earth.'" She left and did as Elijah had said. She was able to eat for a year, and he and her son as well;the jar of flour did not go empty,nor the jug of oil run dry,as the LORD had foretold through Elijah.Reading IIHeb 9:24-28Christ did not enter into a sanctuary made by hands,a copy of the true one, but heaven itself,that he might now appear before God on our behalf. Not that he might offer himself repeatedly,as the high priest enters each year into the sanctuarywith blood that is not his own;if that were so, he would have had to suffer repeatedlyfrom the foundation of the world. But now once for all he has appeared at the end of the agesto take away sin by his sacrifice. Just as it is appointed that human beings die once,and after this the judgment, so also Christ,offered once to take away the sins of many,will appear a second time, not to take away sinbut to bring salvation to those who eagerly await him.GospelMk 12:38-44In the course of his teaching Jesus said to the crowds,"Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robesand accept greetings in the marketplaces,seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets.They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretextrecite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation."He sat down opposite the treasuryand observed how the crowd put money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums.A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them,"Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in morethan all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth,but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had,her whole livelihood."

Scripture: 1 Kings 17:8-16In a hungry and dry time, the prophet Elijah visits a widow who is sure she has only a crumb to sustain her. How are we invited to be transformed by the invitation to share what we have, when it is so tempting in trying times to turn inward? The post The Crumb appeared first on Foreside Community Church.

What if - just for today _ we focused on being our best in three simple ways:Good Thinking - Proverbs 4:5-9The Right Attitude - Philippians 3:8Solid Relationships - Colossians 3:12-16In this episode of "Your Life," Tony Haire and Dan DeBruler look to the significance of setting goals and cultivating a positive mindset. They highlight the transformative power of God's Word, emphasizing the need to not only read Scripture but to internalize its teachings.Listen as they underscore the importance of practicing good thinking, aligning our thoughts with God's Word. By doing so, we can experience spiritual growth and develop a deeper understanding of God's will for our lives.The conversation also touches on the significance of relationships. Haire and DeBruler emphasize the importance of investing in meaningful relationships, both with God and with others. By loving God and loving others, we can fulfill our purpose and make a positive impact on the world.Overall, this episode offers practical insights and spiritual encouragement for listeners seeking to live a more fulfilling life. By focusing on positive thinking, immersing ourselves in God's Word, and investing in relationships, we can experience the abundant life that God has promised.Key Takeaways:The Power of Positive Thinking: Tony Haire and Dan DeBruler emphasize the importance of cultivating a positive mindset, rooted in the wisdom of God's Word.The Transformative Power of God's Word: By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we can allow God's Word to renew our minds and transform our lives.The Importance of Relationships: Investing in meaningful relationships is crucial, as we are called to love God and love others.

Malachi Study #4 - Yet Ye Say “Wherefore?”Malachi 2:10-16In this passage Malachi deals with two sins which were besetting the people of Israel, and which were again, some of the causes of their being bereft of God's blessing - which they certainly expected, and to which they thought they were entitled! In verses 10-13, the people of God were causing God much grief, by intermarrying with the pagan people who lived in the land around them, - people were outside the covenant that God had established with Israel. In verses 14-16, The first sin is compounded with an even more heinous crime, for in order to bring these marriages with the pagans about, the men of Israel were actually divorcing their legitimate wives! Is it any wonder that God was refusing to bless these rebellious people. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Podcast: PrOTect It All (LS 24 · TOP 10% what is this?)Episode: Evolution of Maritime Safety: From Analog Beginnings to Digital RedundanciesPub date: 2024-09-16In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow is joined by Christopher Stein from Royal Caribbean Group to delve into the fascinating evolution of maritime technology. This discussion explores the dramatic journey ships have taken from their analog origins to becoming digitally advanced behemoths of the seas, emphasizing the critical importance of safety and redundancy. Listeners will understand how automation has revolutionized ship operations, allowing for reduced crew workload and increased efficiency. The episode also highlights the intricate management behind running a fleet of 68 ships, each functioning as an autonomous mobile city with numerous interconnected systems. Christopher Stein provides an insider’s perspective on the maritime industry's latest cybersecurity challenges and compliance requirements. He discusses the careful processes of ensuring all onboard systems run smoothly and safely, from cybersecurity assessments to integrating digital sensors and control mechanisms. This episode offers a deep dive into the complexities of maritime operations, emphasizing the behind-the-scenes efforts that keep voyages safe and efficient. Through engaging storytelling and expert insights, Protect It All takes listeners on a journey through the melding of technology and tradition in the maritime world. Tune in to discover how these advancements are shaping the future of safe sea travel! Key Moments: 00:10 OT systems require constant uptime; no outage windows. 05:06 OT and IT convergence misunderstood; safety risk emphasized. 08:18 Testing must ensure safety, operational integrity, and collaboration. 10:25 Cybersecurity must integrate with overall system design. 14:21 No pool, casino, water slides, roller coasters. 17:29 Systems affect availability, reliability, safety, and billing. 21:24 Managing vast logistics for seamless vacation experiences. 25:14 Royal Caribbean's efficient logistics and management impress. 27:28 Family surprised internet works during power outage. 33:26 Apollo 13 movie: interconnected digital procedures, limited power. 36:20 All systems have manual control for safety. 37:55 Operator rounds involved manual inspection of equipment. 41:27 Early immigrants faced harsh, uncertain voyages to America. 45:32 Technology makes formerly unattainable achievements accessible today. 49:08 Internet outage impacts due to maritime dependency. About the guest : Christopher Stein is a proficient maritime systems specialist who ensures the operational safety of onboard systems. Recognizing the potential dangers of propulsion loss, Christopher meticulously coordinates maintenance tasks while vessels are docked. He emphasizes precise timing and a clear understanding of assessment objectives to execute system tests and shutdowns safely. His expertise ensures voyages proceed without incidents, reflecting his commitment to maritime safety and system reliability. Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co Website: https://protectitall.co/ X: https://twitter.com/protectitall YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrOTectITAll FaceBook: https://facebook.com/protectitallpodcast To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at info@protectitall.coThe podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Aaron Crow, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.

Podcast: Bites & Bytes PodcastEpisode: The Anthropology of Cybersecurity with George Kamide | Exploring the Intersection of Tech, Culture, and Food SystemsPub date: 2024-09-16In this episode of the Bites and Bytes Podcast, host Kristin Demoranville welcomes George Kamide, co-host of the Bare Knuckles & Brass Tacks podcast, Head of Community at The CISO Society, and Co-Founder of Mind Over Cyber.  George brings his expertise in both cybersecurity and anthropology to the conversation, discussing the cultural, human, and technological factors shaping the global food supply chain.  Together, they examine how cybersecurity intersects with agriculture, the vulnerabilities within our food systems, and the importance of protecting this critical infrastructure. If you're interested in the connections between cybersecurity, food security, and technology, this episode is packed with valuable insights into securing the systems that sustain us. _______________________________________________

Podcast: mnemonic security podcastEpisode: Risk Forecast: WindyPub date: 2024-09-16In this episode, Robby speaks with Jens Christian Vedersø, Head of Cyber Risk Management at Vestas, one of the world's largest wind turbine manufacturers.Jens is a former Navy and intelligence officer and recovering regulator. Before managing cyber risk in the renewable energy sector, Jens helped develop energy sector legislation and cyber preparedness at the Danish Energy Agency, and served as a subject matter expert for SCADA, OT, ICS and IoT at the Danish Center for Cyber Security.In the discussion Jens shares his unique perspective on how security acts as both an enabler and a potential barrier in the transition towards renewable energy transition, and how the industry needs to move from a reactive, compliance-driven approach towards a more proactive, risk-based model. Jens also shares insights into the threat landscape, potential motivations of state actors, and how Vestas is working to quantify cyber risk and empower customers to better understand and control their own cyber risks.The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from mnemonic, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.

Chad Cronin - Revelation 19:11-16In this sermon on Revelation 19:11-16, Chad discusses the second coming of Jesus as a conquering warrior and the Word of God. He encourages believers to have great expectation, anticipation, and a triumphant spirit in light of Christ's return. The sermon emphasizes the need for sincerity, holiness, and fervor for evangelism in response to the coming day of judgment.

Podcast: Industrial Cybersecurity InsiderEpisode: Future Trends in Industrial Cybersecurity with Sandeep Lota of Nozomi NetworksPub date: 2024-07-16In this episode, cybersecurity expert Sandeep Lota, Nozomi Networks Field CTO, joins Dino Busalachi to discuss the challenges and innovations in OT cybersecurity. Key topics they explore include dealing with the evolution of OT security tools, the challenges with IT-OT convergence, and the increasing importance of continuous monitoring. Sandeep also talks about the role of OEM partnerships and the rising trend of managed services. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve!Chapters00:01:00 - Meet Sandeep Lota of Nozomi Networks00:02:00 - Cybersecurity Journey and Milestones00:03:00 - IT vs OT: The Convergence Challenge00:05:00 - OEM Partnerships in Security00:07:00 - Future Trends in OT Security00:10:00 - Why Continuous Monitoring Matters00:11:00 - The Boom in Managed Services00:18:00 - Nozomi Networks' Global Impact00:19:00 - Key Takeaways and Final ThoughtsLinks And Resources:Sandeep Lota on LinkedInNozomi NetworksVelta TechnologyDino Busalachi on LinkedInJim Cook on LinkedInCraig Duckworth on LinkedInThanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to Industrial Cybersecurity Insider? Have some feedback you'd like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Google Podcasts to leave us a review!The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Velta Technology, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.

June 12, 2024 Today's Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1Daily Lectionary: Proverbs 10:1-23; Proverbs 11:1-12:28; John 14:1-17So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Christians don't measure hurt differently than the world. Just time. Jesus is already raised from the dead and will bring us with Him into His presence. We are already tied to everlasting life. That doesn't make today hurt less, but it puts the word “today” in perspective. Which matters when things hurt. Pain shortens time into the moment. All of eternity shrinks into the toe I just stubbed. There is no path forward from the relationship imploding in the moment. Pain makes the now seem so much larger than it actually is. Christ's promise of resurrection stretches time back out. Today is still allowed to hurt. Jesus never promises a today that hurts less. But He does promise to be a God who will not allow you to hurt alone. He'll hurt for you, too. He bore a cross that probably didn't just tickle. But He did it to save you from the todays that hurt too much. So we do not lose heart. Our outer self wastes away. Things break in this world, us included. But our inner self won't just renew after it's all too much and we die. You are renewed today in the midst of the pain. In the midst of the decay. In the midst of everything that is wrong, daily, you are renewed in your Baptism. New Man emerges and arises to live before God in righteousness and purity forever. You are tied to the victory that stretches time back out today. So we look to that. The things that are unseen in the font. Forgiveness, life, and salvation. You are baptized. Today's afflictions will disappear under the weight of the glory of the resurrection in the same way I can't remember what I had eight years ago for lunch. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O God, for our redemption You gave Your only-begotten Son to the death of the cross and by His glorious resurrection delivered us from the power of the enemy. Grant that all our sin may be drowned through daily repentance and that day by day we may arise to live before You in righteousness and purity forever; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.- Rev. Harrison Goodman is the content executive for Higher Things.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, Ky. A Complete Guide to Christian Symbols This collection of over 600 hand-drawn Christian symbols by artist and author Edward Riojas will teach you the extensive history of the imagery of the Church. Each symbol is a beautiful and historical connection to generations of Christians that have worshiped before you. A Complete Guide to Christian Symbols. Now available from Concordia Publishing House. 

His Ascension Draws Him CloserA SERMON BASED ON Ephesians 4:7-16In many ways, the ascension of Jesus ties a boy on his earthly ministry. He had defeated sin, the devil and hell itself. But that doesn't mean Jesus is done. He still has an agenda even as he sits at the right hand of God the Father. Hear about that agenda in this Sunday's sermon.

Jeremiah 31:31-34Hebrews 5:5-10John 12:20-33Psalm 51:1-13or Psalm 119:9-16The CollectAlmighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners: Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.Old TestamentJeremiah 31:31-34The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant that I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt—a covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, says the Lord. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. No longer shall they teach one another, or say to each other, “Know the Lord,” for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, says the Lord; for I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more.The PsalmPsalm 51:1-13Miserere mei, Deus1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your loving-kindness; *in your great compassion blot out my offenses.2 Wash me through and through from my wickedness *and cleanse me from my sin.3 For I know my transgressions, *and my sin is ever before me.4 Against you only have I sinned *and done what is evil in your sight.5 And so you are justified when you speak *and upright in your judgment.6 Indeed, I have been wicked from my birth, *a sinner from my mother's womb.7 For behold, you look for truth deep within me, *and will make me understand wisdom secretly.8 Purge me from my sin, and I shall be pure; *wash me, and I shall be clean indeed.9 Make me hear of joy and gladness, *that the body you have broken may rejoice.10 Hide your face from my sins *and blot out all my iniquities.11 Create in me a clean heart, O God, *and renew a right spirit within me.12 Cast me not away from your presence *and take not your holy Spirit from me.13 Give me the joy of your saving help again *and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit.orPsalm 119:9-16In quo corrigit?9 How shall a young man cleanse his way? *By keeping to your words.10 With my whole heart I seek you; *let me not stray from your commandments.11 I treasure your promise in my heart, *that I may not sin against you.12 Blessed are you, O Lord; *instruct me in your statutes.13 With my lips will I recite *all the judgments of your mouth.14 I have taken greater delight in the way of your decrees *than in all manner of riches.15 I will meditate on your commandments *and give attention to your ways.16 My delight is in your statutes; *I will not forget your word.The EpistleHebrews 5:5-10Christ did not glorify himself in becoming a high priest, but was appointed by the one who said to him,“You are my Son, today I have begotten you”;as he says also in another place,“You are a priest forever, according to the order of...

Scripture Reading: Acts 7:44-60 44 Our ancestors had the tabernacle of testimony in the wilderness, just as God who spoke to Moses ordered him to make it according to the design he had seen. 45 Our ancestors received possession of it and brought it in with Joshua when they dispossessed the nations that God drove out before our ancestors, until the time of David. 46 He found favor with God and asked that he could find a dwelling place for the house of Jacob. 47 But Solomon built a house for him. 48 Yet the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands, as the prophet says,49 ‘Heaven is my throne,and earth is the footstool for my feet.What kind of house will you build for me, says the Lord,or what is my resting place?50 Did my hand not make all these things?'51 “You stubborn people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are always resisting the Holy Spirit, like your ancestors did! 52 Which of the prophets did your ancestors not persecute? They killed those who foretold long ago the coming of the Righteous One, whose betrayers and murderers you have now become! 53 You received the law by decrees given by angels, but you did not obey it.”54 When they heard these things, they became furious and ground their teeth at him. 55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked intently toward heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56 “Look!” he said. “I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!” 57 But they covered their ears, shouting out with a loud voice, and rushed at him with one intent. 58 When they had driven him out of the city, they began to stone him, and the witnesses laid their cloaks at the feet of a young man named Saul. 59 They continued to stone Stephen while he prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!” 60 Then he fell to his knees and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them!” When he had said this, he died.Main ThemesWhere We Left OffLast week we covered most of Stephen's speech. Stephen recounts the lives of the heroes of the faith: Abraham, Joseph, and Moses. Several connections can be drawn between them and Jesus, with the most prominent connection being the idea of a deliverer that was rejected by his people (particularly evident in the stories of Joseph and Moses). This is evidence that the Jews' rejection of Jesus does not mean Jesus was an impostor nor that, if Jesus really was the Messiah, God's plan failed. Instead, it is the mark of a true deliverer. Christ's rejection is fulfilled scripture (see also, Isaiah 43:1-4). It is a greater, alas the greatest, fulfillment of that archetype in scripture.Stephen also reminds his hearers of their sins—their constant sins. Their idolatry merited exile, which climaxed with the Babylonian empire's conquest of Israel. But, their sinful hearts were present even during the exodus. This is evidence that the Jews' sinful behavior against Jesus was expected. As with the prior example, given Jesus' identity, the Jews' sinful behavior against God in the flesh is the greatest fulfillment of this archetype in scripture.Now that Stephen's words are fresh in our minds, let's continue to read his conclusion and the audience's reaction. David & God's HouseOur ancestors had the tabernacle of testimony in the wilderness, just as God who spoke to Moses ordered him to make it according to the design he had seen. Our ancestors received possession of it and brought it in with Joshua when they dispossessed the nations that God drove out before our ancestors, until the time of David. He found favor with God and asked that he could find a dwelling place for the house of Jacob. But Solomon built a house for him. Yet the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands, as the prophet says,‘Heaven is my throne, and earth is the footstool for my feet. What kind of house will you build for me, says the Lord, or what is my resting place? Did my hand not make all these things?'“You stubborn people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are always resisting the Holy Spirit, like your ancestors did! Which of the prophets did your ancestors not persecute? They killed those who foretold long ago the coming of the Righteous One, whose betrayers and murderers you have now become! You received the law by decrees given by angels, but you did not obey it.” Acts 7:44-53When David, Israel's greatest king, ruled the promised land, did God need a temple? Not only is the answer no, but God did not allow David to build a temple. Sure, Israel had a tabernacle, but that only furthers Stephen's point. God will dwell where he will dwell. Moreover, even when the people had the tabernacle they still practiced idolatry continuously. A temple would not change that.David's son was finally allowed to build a temple. Although we already know the answer, let's ask, Did God need a house to dwell among his people? Isaiah 66:1-2, quoted by Stephen, settles the matter.‘Heaven is my throne, and earth is the footstool for my feet. What kind of house will you build for me, says the Lord, or what is my resting place? Did my hand not make all these things?'This is why Stephen can confidently say, “Yet the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands . . . .” As the NET translators explain:The phrase made by human hands is negative in the NT . . . . It suggests “man-made” or “impermanent.” The rebuke is like parts of the Hebrew scripture where the rebuke is not of the temple, but for making too much of it . . . .The temple was an accommodation to human need, but God desired pure worship, not simply a place or institution.Notice that in verses 40 and 41 of chapter 7, idolaters make gods with their own hands and worship them. In utter opposition, verses 48 and 49 tell us that nothing made can contain God because God has made all things.Reversing the Charges, Circumcision of the HeartOpposing the Law and the TempleRecall from chapter 6 that Stephen faces two charges: he opposes the law and the temple. As we just discussed, Stephen argues against making too much of the temple. God was with his people before they had a temple; God refused Israel's greatest king's offer to build him a temple; God cannot be contained in anything created. Notice, this is not an anti-temple argument. Stephen is not advocating for the destruction or even the abandonment of the temple. Stephen is requesting that the temple be placed in proper perspective against the backdrop of God's infinitude.In verse 51, Stephen addresses the charge that he opposes the law. As we have discussed before, a common ancient rhetorical technique was to reverse a charge on the accuser. (This would have been terribly unwise in a trial context—at least if one wished to receive mercy. That is clearly not Stephen's goal.) Stephen, in no uncertain terms, answers the question: who is disobeying the law? His accusers. They are spiritually uncircumcised (7: 51), murderers of the prophets (7: 52), and general disobeyers of the law (7: 53). His hearers' resistance against the Holy Spirit places them in the same category as those who rejected the biblical prophets.Circumcision of the HeartGod's ideal was always that his people's hearts be circumcised. We see this throughout the Old Testament.Therefore, cleanse your hearts and stop being so stubborn! Deuteronomy 10:16In this verse, the text translated as “cleanse” literally reads, “circumcise the foreskin of.” As the NET translators explain, “Just as that act signified total covenant obedience, so spiritual circumcision (cleansing of the heart) signifies more internally a commitment to be pliable and obedient to the will of God . . . .”God makes clear that an external circumcision without a circumcision of heart was never any good.The Lord says, “Watch out! The time is soon coming when I will punish all those who are circumcised only in the flesh. That is, I will punish the Egyptians, the Judeans, the Edomites, the Ammonites, the Moabites, and all the desert people who cut their hair short at the temples. I will do so because none of the people of those nations are really circumcised in the Lord's sight. Moreover, none of the people of Israel are circumcised when it comes to their hearts.” Jeremiah 9:25-26This is a fundamental Christian belief—and Stephen's speech makes it clear that it was fundamental to Judaism as well. We generally speak of Judaism as a religion based purely on strict adherence to laws. Notice, that is not entirely correct. As I have repeated before, Jesus' followers are not attempting to replace Judaism with a new religion but to “do” Judaism correctly.Sincere BeliefLet's explore this idea of sincere belief in one's heart. There are many New Testament passages to this effect.Because 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. Romans 10:9, emphasis addedTherefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, by the fresh and living way that he inaugurated for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a sincere heart in the assurance that faith brings, because we have had our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed in pure water. And let us hold unwaveringly to the hope that we confess, for the one who made the promise is trustworthy. Hebrews 10:19-23, emphasis addedBlessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Matthew 5:8, emphasis added“Watch out for false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are voracious wolves. You will recognize them by their fruit. Grapes are not gathered from thorns or figs from thistles, are they? In the same way, every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree is not able to bear bad fruit, nor a bad tree to bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. So then, you will recognize them by their fruit. Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,' will enter into the kingdom of heaven—only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day, many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, didn't we prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many powerful deeds in your name?' Then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you. Go away from me, you lawbreakers!' Matthew 7:15-23, emphasis addedBecause of verses such as these, Christians generally believe that outside behaviors will not save a man. Only Jesus saves. And Jesus will only save those who earnestly wish to be saved; those who wish to be righteous; those who wish to love and be loved the way that Love himself would have it; those who truly wish for true Heaven. Those people not only believe in God but believe God. God is not only real but the master and the prize.Stephen—The First MartyrMartyrs, in the ancient world and today, function as models. They are like brave soldiers who die upon the battlefield inspiring other soldiers. Stories of martyrs were not foreign to ancient Jews. The Maccabean martyrs would have been well-remembered examples at the time of Jesus. Gentiles (i.e., non-Jews) had their martyr stories too.Stephen is the first Christian martyr. As such, the church fathers regarded him as the “protomartyr,” offering an example for many to follow. Stephen's martyrdom is also special because of the parallels with Jesus' death. See below for a chart from Craig Keener's commentary on Acts that compares the deaths of Jesus and Stephen. The Sanhedrin's Power to ExecuteI discussed the Sanhedrin's inability to carry out capital punishment during our study of John. Here I will provide a brief reminder.Rome jealously guarded the power of capital punishment. Generally, only the Roman representative in the area (e.g., governor) could approve it. Local councils could pronounce capital punishment but, without ratification from Roman authorities, carrying it out would have been a serious affront against the empire. The Sanhedrin was no different. (To be fair, some scholars think that Rome allowed the Sanhedrin to execute capital sentences directly, but this is highly unlikely and not widely accepted. Moreover, that theory does not make sense of Pontius Pilate's involvement in Jesus' death.)The Roman authorities may have looked the other way in the case of lynchings—since they would not have been a deliberate and organized defiance of Rome. However, even deaths by lynching could generate complaints to Rome.For these reasons, scholars debate whether Acts 7 is narrating a formal trial of Stephen, a trial and a later lynching, or a trial quickly followed by a lynching. If Acts 7 describes a trial and a formally executed punishment, perhaps the Jewish authorities sought Roman ratification of Stephen's death penalty after the fact. Proponents of this theory suggest that otherwise (that is, without Roman approval), the Jewish persecution of Christians involving arrests and investigations reaching as far as Damascus, would have met Roman resistance.The second proposal is that Stephen's trial and Stephen's death were not immediately successive events. Some time passed and a mob did what the Sanhedrin could not. To take this view, one must believe that Luke collapsed and confused both events in his narrative. This view does not treat the text seriously and there are more plausible alternatives.What about a trial and an immediate lynching? Perhaps the Sanhedrin did not intend to execute Stephen on the spot, but things just got out of control. Oops. I am sure they were devastated. Mob violence was a common phenomenon of ancient life, particularly in Jewish court settings. Jewish trials often devolved into unruly shouting and could degenerate further than this. Surprisingly, throwing stones at one's legal adversaries was not unusual. So, the proposition that the action went from throwing stones to a stoning is not hard to believe.The Great ReversalI will argue that there is a running double entendre beginning on verse 7:54 and ending with verse 8:1. At every turn, what is happening on earth is the opposite of what is happening in heaven. The good guys are the bad guys, the condemned is innocent, human justice is God's injustice. Ultimately, the winners are the losers, and the losers are the winners. The effect of the juxtaposition is to give us hope than one day all will be set right.Furious, Grinding Their TeethThe Jewish accusers became “furious” with Stephen—a strong word used only once more in the New Testament, the prior trial of the apostles in chapter 5. Unlike chapter 5, no Gamaliel intervenes. In their anger, the accusers “grind their teeth.” The literal expression is “gnashed their teeth.” This could indicate anger or frustration (see, for example, Psalm 112:10), but it often conveyed anguish. The phrase appears in relation to judgment and hell. For example:Then Jesus traveled throughout towns and villages, teaching and making his way toward Jerusalem. Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few be saved?” So he said to them, “Exert every effort to enter through the narrow door because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. Once the head of the house gets up and shuts the door, then you will stand outside and start to knock on the door and beg him, ‘Lord, let us in!' But he will answer you, ‘I don't know where you come from.' Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.' But he will reply, ‘I don't know where you come from! Go away from me, all you evildoers!' There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God but you yourselves thrown out. Then people will come from east and west, and from north and south, and take their places at the banquet table in the kingdom of God. But indeed, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.” Luke 13:22-30, emphasis addedThe reversal—the irony— is that those who gnash their teeth in anger persecuting the righteous will gnash their teeth in anguish upon the final judgment.Looking to Heaven; Seeing God's GloryToday, we pray by bowing our heads and closing our eyes. There is nothing inherently spiritual about this. It is a cultural preference. In Jesus' day, looking to heaven was a common posture for prayer. Presumably, this was because God resided in heaven.Stephen does exactly as expected and looks intently towards heaven. Before his prayer, he has a vision. He sees the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Some other Jewish texts presented similar heavenly visions, although they were often ambiguous. The speaker may have been narrating events as if he were actually seeing them when both him and his audience understood that he was not. Stephen's case contains no such ambiguity. Both the narrator and Stephen tell us he is genuinely seeing something.Stephen claims that the heavens opened. We have heard these words before.Now when all the people were baptized, Jesus also was baptized. And while he was praying, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my one dear Son; in you I take great delight.” Luke 3:21-22, emphasis addedFurther, notice that Stephen sees God's glory in heaven rather than in the temple. As Stephen has just declared, heaven is God's throne, rather than any earthly temple containing him.Most important, however, is that Stephen's vision of the Son of Man at God's right hand clearly parallels Jesus's announcement of the Son of Man at God's right hand.Now the men who were holding Jesus under guard began to mock him and beat him. They blindfolded him and asked him repeatedly, “Prophesy! Who hit you?” They also said many other things against him, reviling him. When day came, the council of the elders of the people gathered together, both the chief priests and the experts in the law. Then they led Jesus away to their council and said, “If you are the Christ, tell us.” But he said to them, “If I tell you, you will not believe, and if I ask you, you will not answer. But from now on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God.” So they all said, “Are you the Son of God, then?” He answered them, “You say that I am.” Then they said, “Why do we need further testimony? We have heard it ourselves from his own lips!” Luke 22:63-71, emphasis addedStephen's vision confirms to him and to us that his sacrifice is not in vain. The promises of Jesus are true. He reigns. Jesus lives so Stephen shall live again. We should also note that the title “Son of Man” is rare outside the Gospels and barely ever occurs on anyone's lips but Jesus'. Stephen is relying on the words of his lord.Right HandThat Jesus is at the Father's right hand emphasizes the claim of his exaltation as sovereign Messiah and Lord, the “Lord” of Ps 110.Here is the Lord's proclamation to my lord: “Sit down at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool.” The Lord extends your dominion from Zion. Rule in the midst of your enemies. Your people willingly follow you when you go into battle. On the holy hills at sunrise the dew of your youth belongs to you. The Lord makes this promise on oath and will not revoke it: “You are an eternal priest after the pattern of Melchizedek.” O Lord, at your right hand he strikes down kings in the day he unleashes his anger. Psalm 110:1b-5, emphasis addedEven if the Sanhedrin did not believe Stephen, they would have felt the political defiance embedded in his alleged vision. Stephen is claiming that the Jesus they crucified claims an alternate kingdom, a greater kingdom. Here is the second piece of the double entendre. The Sanhedrin believes itself to be sovereign. If they are sovereign at all it is of a small kingdom. The true sovereign is Jesus, sitting at the right hand of God almighty.The True Trial—StandingStephen sees Jesus standing at God's right hand. This is unusual. Generally, Jesus is depicted as sitting next to the Father (e.g., Psalm 110:1; Hebrews 1:3; Ephesians 1:20-21).The Old Testament depicted witnesses as standing. (A vindicating witness would stand at the right hand of the accused.) Here, recall that Stephen is being accused by false witnesses, who presumably would also be standing to testify against Stephen. A standing Jesus conveys the contrasting image that as Stephen is accused by the earthly tribunal at the hands of deceitful men, he is vindicated in the heavenly tribunal by the testimony of Jesus.The motif of vindication is reinforced by the fact that although judges generally sat though cases, tradition is that they stood to render a verdict. So, a standing Jesus also conveys the idea that as Stephen is convicted by the earthly tribunal, Jesus acquits him.Hear No EvilUpon Stephen's description of his vision, the crowd rushes at him with “one intent.” Perhaps the crowd is outraged by what they interpret as further blasphemy. Perhaps the crowd is outraged because they understand Stephen's words as a political claim that defies the authority of the Sanhedrin. Perhaps both are true.When the crowd launches at Stephen, they cover their ears and shout (or “cry”) in a loud voice. Why would they do this? Covering one's ears to prevent hearing further blasphemy may have been considered a pious act. In a sense, they were keeping themselves clean from Stephen's blasphemy.Here is another, powerful ironic reversal. The crowd shuts its ears and cries to make sure the message will not reach it. Recall what Stephen said just a few verses before, “You stubborn people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are always resisting the Holy Spirit, like your ancestors did!” The Jews think they are closing their ears to lies when they are closing their ears to truth.The PunishmentCast OutStephen is “driven out” of the city, also translated as “cast out.” Standard Jewish custom was to cast someone out of the city before executing them. Jesus was also “cast out” in the parable of the vineyard.Then he began to tell the people this parable: “A man planted a vineyard, leased it to tenant farmers, and went on a journey for a long time. When harvest time came, he sent a slave to the tenants so that they would give him his portion of the crop. However, the tenants beat his slave and sent him away empty-handed. So he sent another slave. They beat this one too, treated him outrageously, and sent him away empty-handed. So he sent still a third. They even wounded this one and threw him out. Then the owner of the vineyard said, ‘What should I do? I will send my one dear son; perhaps they will respect him.' But when the tenants saw him, they said to one another, ‘This is the heir; let's kill him so the inheritance will be ours!' So they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. What then will the owner of the vineyard do to them? Luke 20:9-15, emphasis addedStoningGreeks and other peoples, like Jews, executed people by stoning. Roman law limited these local forms of punishment, but even in this period Roman law could not prevent stoning from occurring altogether, since it was a common way for mobs to execute vengeance without regard for official laws. Stoning was often a mob action both in Israel and elsewhere.Stoning was simply the most ready-to-hand form of public violence available, including in Judea. Stoning was appropriate for blasphemy, among other offenses, and had to be done outside the city.Oftentimes God's people tried to stone God's prophets.God's Spirit energized Zechariah son of Jehoiada the priest. He stood up before the people and said to them, “This is what God says: ‘Why are you violating the commands of the Lord? You will not be prosperous. Because you have rejected the Lord, he has rejected you!'” They plotted against him and by royal decree stoned him to death in the courtyard of the Lord's temple. 2 Chronicles 24:20-21Then Moses cried out to the Lord, “What will I do with this people?—a little more and they will stone me!” Exodus 17:4In a stoning, witnesses were the first to cast stones, perhaps as a deterrent to false witnesses.Laid Their CloaksThe hostile witnesses discard their “cloaks” (ἱμάτια). Most people wore a tunic or shirt composed of two pieces of cloth sewn together. The simplest form was sleeveless, but in cooler weather one could add a himation (a rectangular piece of cloth draped around the body). Thus the removal of the cloak does not involve complete nakedness.Why did the witnesses remove their cloaks? For a simple but morbid reason. Because they were about to engage in strenuous exercise to stone Stephen. Nevertheless, the self-stripping gives us our last “great reversal.” Prisoners were often stripped naked before they received their public punishment, such as lashings or stoning. Nakedness increased their shame. (Nakedness had been shameful for Jewish people throughout their history.) Luke portrays the Hellenist accusers as stripping themselves for a strenuous physical activity but, in so doing, portrays them ironically as the guilty party.The PrayerLike I mentioned above, today we pray in silence (except in some corporate settings), but ancient Jews prayed out loud. So, people generally heard the supplicant's prayer. Also, kneeling was a common posture for prayer, denoting submission. Stephen's prayer was:Lord Jesus, receive my spirit! Lord, do not hold this sin against them!This prayer recalls Jesus' prayer before his death.But Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don't know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34a*Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” Luke 23:46(*There is some textual controversy regarding the first part of verse Luke 23:34. The verse may not be original but still historically authentic.)The person addressed in Stephen's prayer is significant. He is “calling on the name of the Lord” fulfilling the words of Peter's speech (quoting the prophet Joel).And then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Acts 2:21Moreover, notice that in the gospels Jesus addressed the Father. Stephen call out to “Lord Jesus.” This is highly significant. Stephen thought of Jesus as God.The climax of the scene of Stephen's martyrdom (before his death) is his prayer for his persecutors. Jesus taught prayer for one's oppressors.But I say to you who are listening: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Luke 6:27-28You have heard that it was said, “Love your neighbor” and “hate your enemy.” But I say to you, love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be like your Father in heaven, since he causes the sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Even the tax collectors do the same, don't they? And if you only greet your brothers, what more do you do? Even the Gentiles do the same, don't they? Matthew 5:43-47Stephen's prayer for his accusers is particularly shocking if we understand their culture. Jewish people believed in confessing sins before God as a form of atonement. Normally death was considered sufficient suffering to atone for a Jewish person, if coupled with repentance. Thus one in danger might pray for safety and add, as a precaution, “May my death atone for all my sins.” People condemned to capital punishment were invited to make confession a few feet from the site of execution so that they could share in the coming world.So, imagine the shock when Stephen confesses not his own sins but those of his opponents. Also shocking is the fact that unlike most martyrs who prayed for vindication, Stephen's prayer was for mercy rather than justice. This is Christ's love. This is Christian love.

In this week's episode, Shanti mentally spirals as her birthday nears while Antoinette recounts bearing witness to Sir. Marvelous's care and sexual healing at a sex club. For politics as usual, Antoinette explains the New York Survivors Act and the misconceptions around sexual misconduct civil suits. For pop culture, we share our thoughts on Beyonce's Renaissance movie premiere look & the claims that she "wants to be white", Mama TIna's defense of her daughter, and the newly emerged details around Iman and Teyana Taylor's unfortunate divorce. Join us...IN LOVE AND STRUGGLE, VOL. 3: The Future Is Around UsDecember 14-16In its third year, "IN LOVE AND STRUGGLE" unites visionary Black women and nonbinary individuals for memorable evenings of storytelling, music, comedy, and monologues. This year's theme draws inspiration from science fiction writer Octavia Butler, featuring a diverse and creative cast, including adrienne maree brown, Cree Summer, Zainab Johnson, Mahogany L. Browne, Treasure Brooks, Amanda Seales, and more to be announced. Join us for an eclectic celebration of love, resilience, and creativity.Discount code 35% off of prime orchestra seats! promo code: bit.ly/inloveclp35Contact Us: Hotline: (215) 948-2780Discord: https://discord.gg/4hRQbTkBEmail: aroundthewaycurls@gmail.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/aroundthewaycurls for exclusive videos & bonus contentShop ATWC Merch: https://www.aroundthewaycurls.com/collectionsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode we investigate what is Grace and how it relates to us today.Romans 1:16-17For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.17 This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, “It is through faith that a righteous person has life.”Genesis 15:6And Abram believed the LORD, and the LORD counted him as righteous because of his faith.Mark 9:23And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can'! All things are possible for one who believes.Hebrews 10:38But my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.”2 Corinthians 5:7For we walk by faith, not by sight.Romans 14:23:Whatever is not from faith is sin.Ephesians 6:16In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;Ezra 9:8 But now for a brief moment grace has been shown from the Lord our God, to leave us an escaped remnant and to give us a peg in His holy place, that our God may enlighten our eyes and grant us a little reviving in our bondage.John 1:14The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.Titus 2:11-14For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to everyone. 12It instructs us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live sensible, upright, and godly lives in the present age, 13as we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. 14He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.Romans 5:17For if, by the trespass of the one, death reigned through the one, how much more will those receiving the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one, Jesus Christ!Ephesians 6:16In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;Ephesians 2:8-9For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.1 Peter 5:10But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.2 Corinthians 9:8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.1 Corinthians 2:5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.Matthew 21:22 And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”Hebrews 10:35-36So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. 36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise.1 John 5:4 For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faithSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/622a9079e8fb640012cb94f3. I pray that God would "give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. 18I, pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance" https://plus.acast.com/s/blueprint-of-faith. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Romans 1:16-17For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew and then to the heathens. 17. For the gospel reveals the righteousness of God that comes by faith from start to finish, just as it is written "The righteous will live by faith"Habakkuk 2:4Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith.2 Corinthians 5:7For we walk by faith, not by sight.Hebrews 10:38But my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.”Romans 14:23:Whatever is not from faith is sin.Ephesians 6:16In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;Hebrews 11:8By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.Hebrews 11:1Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.Matthew 17:20He replied, "Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."Mark 9:23 And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can'! All things are possible for one who believes.1 Corinthians 2:5That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.Hebrews 4:1-2Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it. For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened.Philippians 4:19And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.Matthew 21:22And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”Ephesians 2:8-9For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.Mark 10:52 Go," said Jesus, "your faith has healed you." Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.Romans 14:23: Whatever is not from faith is sin.2 Corinthians 4:16-18So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.Proverbs 3:5-6Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.Hebrews 10:35-36So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. 36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.James 4:7Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise.1 John 5:4 - For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faitSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/622a9079e8fb640012cb94f3. I pray that God would "give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. 18I, pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance" https://plus.acast.com/s/blueprint-of-faith. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we begin our final two episode of our series. Today's discussion is on the subject of faith and why its absolutely imperative for us to understand that without it we cannot please God.Hebrews 11:6for God can be trusted to keep His promise: for he that comes to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.2 Peter 1:2-4Grace and peace be multiplied to you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4Through these He has given us His precious and magnificent promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, now that you have escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.Romans 1:16-17For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew and then to the heathens. 17. For the gospel reveals the righteousness of God that comes by faith from start to finish, just as it is written "The righteous will live by faith"Romans 1:17 For the gospel reveals the righteousness of God that comes by faith from start to finish, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith.Habakkuk 2:4Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith.2 Corinthians 5:7For we walk by faith, not by sight.Hebrews 10:38But my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.”Galatians 3:11Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for “The righteous shall live by faith.”Romans 14:23:Whatever is not from faith is sin.Ephesians 6:16In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;Mark 11:22-24Jesus said to them, “Have faith in God! I can guarantee this truth: This is what will be done for someone who doesn't doubt but believes what he says will happen: He can say to this mountain, ‘Be uprooted and thrown into the sea,' and it will be done for him. That's why I tell you to have faith that you have already received whatever you pray for, and it will be yours.”Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/622a9079e8fb640012cb94f3. I pray that God would "give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. 18I, pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance" https://plus.acast.com/s/blueprint-of-faith. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey there, it's Matthew Adams. There's a profound narrative in the Bible about a dreamer named Joseph that goes beyond personal aspirations. It's about a divine whisper, that when acted upon, can shift the trajectory of nations. Today, I invite you to embark on a journey to unearth the power of listening to God's voice.Scripture:"Pharaoh said to Joseph, 'I had a dream last night, and no one here can tell me what it means. But I have heard that when you hear about a dream you can interpret it.' 'It is beyond my power to do this,' Joseph replied. 'But God can tell you what it means and set you at ease.'" — GENESIS 41:15-16In the grand design, Joseph wasn't merely an interpreter of dreams; he was an instrument of divine providence. A bridge between heavenly insight and earthly application. Through his connection to God, Joseph's understanding became the lifeline for two nations during trying times.The Power Of God's Whisper is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Point 1: From Personal Struggles to National SolutionsJoseph's dreams, which once tore his family apart, became the very foundation for his unique position in Egypt. The visions he received weren't limited to personal aspirations or vendettas. Instead, they were a beacon of hope for a nation in impending despair. Joseph's journey teaches us that God's messages, even when they seem personal, often have broader implications.Point 2: The Bridge of Divine WisdomJoseph's time in prison wasn't a setback, but a set-up. It was in the depths of adversity that Joseph honed his gift of interpreting dreams. When he stood before Pharaoh, he was well-prepared, not by his might but by aligning himself with God's insight. The message here? God often uses our trials to prepare us for larger assignments, honing our ability to hear and act upon His guidance.Point 3: The Act of Listening, Leading, and BlessingJoseph's divine connection didn't just stop at interpretation; it extended to actionable wisdom. It's one thing to understand God's message and entirely another to act on it in a way that brings blessings to many. Joseph was successful because he didn't just hear; he heeded God's voice and transformed it into tangible blessings for all.Conclusion:In a world inundated with noise, it's paramount that we, like Joseph, learn the art of deciphering God's voice. It's not just about personal direction but about bringing heaven's wisdom to earth, to address not only personal challenges but those of our communities, nations, and the world.Call to Action:I challenge you today, in the midst of your daily hustle, to take a pause. Listen, not just for personal guidance, but for divine strategies that can impact those around you. Dive deep into His word, discern His whispers, and stand as a beacon of hope, just like Joseph did.Prayer:Lord, attune our ears to Your divine frequency. Grant us the wisdom to decipher Your voice amidst life's cacophony. Equip us to be vessels of Your divine strategies, bringing solutions to our world's most pressing challenges. Let our journey resonate with Your purpose, so we might be a blessing to all.This is Matthew Adams, signing off, with a reminder that the answers we seek might just be a divine whisper away. Keep listening, keep discerning, and may your journey be filled with purpose and blessings. Stay connected and God bless.Thank you for reading The Power Of God's Whisper. This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to My Reasons To Believe at myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Today Jeanette shares a beautiful scripture from Exodus that reminded her of God's presence and guidance. She reflects on her own journey of uncertainty and how God reassured her. Let's discusses the importance of obedience and listening to God's direction, even when it feels uncomfortable or challenging. Tune in!Seeking God's constant presence provides comfort and strength throughout your life, trusting His plan, even in uncertainty, leads to fulfillment, sometimes you will need to be reminded that listening to God's voice, seeking a deeper connection, and praying for guidance will bring clarity, and today's episode is about that. Through her personal experiences, Jeanette aims to help you trust in God's plan, seek His ways, and recognize His presence in your life.Verses: Exodus 33: 12-16In this episode:The importance of seeking God's guidance and trusting in His plan for your life.Practicing obedience and trustThe importance of actively pursuing a deeper connection through prayer.Wanna go deeper? Watch the Free Webinar THE MISSING PIECE HERE: https://unapologeticallyunstoppable.captivate.fm/missingpiece Connect on the grams https://instagram.com/jeanette.petersonFind Your Spiritual Gifts QUIZ https://unapologeticallyunstoppable.captivate.fm/quiz Download your 40 powerful prayers here: https://www.jeanettepeterson.com/prayers

  Hey friend,  I don't know about you but sometimes I am my own worst enemy. I have picked up my own weapons of self-defense which have turned into weapons of self sabotage.  Today I want to walk you through a time with Jesus to exchange our old dull thought patterns which are hurting our hearts in exchange for the freedom and empowering glory of His armor.   Grab a journal. Grab a pen. Sit in a quiet space and dig into the truth of His word over you.  As always, please feel free to reach out for prayer inside of our FB group, with a friend, a counselor, or spiritual mentor or pastor.  Jesus wants you to walk in your KINGDOM identity.   Anchoring Scriptures: Isaiah 54: 17 No weapon formed against me shall prosper. 2 Corinthians 10: 3-6 For although we live in the natural realm, we don't wage a military campaign employing human weapons, using manipulation to achieve our aims. Instead, our spiritual weapons are energized with divine power to effectively dismantle the defenses behind which people hide.  5We can demolish every deceptive fantasy  that opposes God and break through every arrogant attitude that is raised up in defiance of the true knowledge of God. We capture, like prisoners of war, every thought  and insist that it bow in obedience to the Anointed One. 6Since we are armed with such dynamic weaponry, we stand ready to punish  any trace of rebellion, as soon as you choose complete obedience.  Ephesians 6: 11-16 11Put on God's complete set of armor  provided for us, so that you will be protected as you fight against the evil strategies of the accuser!  12Your hand-to-hand combat is not with human beings, but with the highest principalities and authorities operating in rebellion under the heavenly realms.  For they are a powerful class of demon-gods  and evil spirits that hold  this dark world in bondage. 13Because of this, you must wear all the armor that God provides so you're protected as you confront the slanderer,  for you are destined for all things  and will rise victorious. 14Put on truth as a belt to strengthen you to stand in triumph. Put on holiness as the protective armor that covers your heart. 15Stand on your feet alert, then you'll always be ready to share the blessings of peace. 16In every battle, take faith as your wrap-around shield, for it is able to extinguish the blazing arrows coming at you from the evil one!  17-18Embrace the power of salvation's full deliverance, like a helmet to protect your thoughts from lies. And take the mighty razor-sharp Spirit-sword  of the spoken word of God. Romans 13:12 1Be enthusiastic to serve the Lord, keeping your passion toward him boiling hot! Radiate with the glow of the Holy Spirit and let him fill you with excitement as you serve him. 12Let this hope burst forth within you, releasing a continual joy. Don't give up in a time of trouble,  but commune with God at all times.   Love what we are doing here on Wholistic Hearts, here are three ways to help us spread this Good News Share with a friend! Leave a review! And buy me a coffee.  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kchadwick https://www.facebook.com/groups/mindbodyspiritholisticfaithforchristianwomen  

Welcome to Hope City Church! NEW If you are new to Hope City text “Welcome” to 502-754-3212 SERMON SCRIPTURE Ephesians 6:10-17 10A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. 13Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. 15For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. CONNECT Connect with us! Visit the Hope City Church website at https://realhopenow.com/ , connect through the Hope City Church Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/realhopenow or download the Church Center app from the android or apple app store and select Hope City Church as your home church. CARE If you or a loved one is in need of prayer or care, we would love to help! Simply open the Hope City Church Louisville app, click on "Pastoral Care" or "Prayer Request" and fill out the form so that we can know how we can help. Or go to https://app.textinchurch.com/groups/webform/MjYxMDg4 and send us your prayer request. GIVE Our heart is to share as much hope with as many people as possible, and you make that happen because of your generosity. Click the link below to give. http://www.realhopenow.com/give/ Thank you for tuning in to today's service. We'll see you soon!

Cannibalism in Hollywood — and mainstream America follows. Why is it being celebrated along with Jeffrey Dahmer? 3:22It's rare to be able to hold money and not be corrupted by it. Multi-billionaire owner of Hobby Lobby on why he's giving away his fortune so he doesn't ruin the lives of children and grandchildren, “wealth can be a curse". 8:39What does Christian nationalism even mean? Something for both left and right to think about 21:37What's going on with "The Reawaken America Tour"? The left attacks, saying it "has brought together fanatical election deniers, anti-vaccine deniers and self-proclaimed prophets." 34:52Does the church need to "stay in its lane" to handle the challenges of this cultural moment? Should we "stay in the closet"? 45:00Rishi Sunak is a Davos Prince (like Trudeau and Rutte). But Rishi is focused on the financial controls and takeover — CBDC, ESG, surveillance 56:58Tulsi Gabbard's involvement with Davos and why she needs to come clean. 1:00:16In the wake of what Nigel Farage has called a “globalist coup”, Charles Walker and the UK had this to say. 1:07:35The reason why Liz Truss was kicked out of the government. 1:09:52WATCH: Rishi Sunak is a “world economic forum robot” — literally 1:19:41Baby Elephants are on the move as GOP candidates walk to the finish line. But are there NO angry bull elephants coming to take on tyranny? The pathetic tiptoeing around tyranny witnessed in the debates this week 1:33:17What is the "coalition of the fearful", and how did Democrats create it with Covid "decree violation scores"? 1:40:35What would you like to be two weeks out of a hotly contested election and have only 19 masked people show up to your townhall? 1:43:48Hillary Clinton, the original election conspiracy theorist, now says to her "invisibles" that right wing extremists have a plan to literally steal the next presidential election. 1:48:58Fetterman mumbles & stumbles during Tuesday's debate. 1:54:56Ron Desantis vs. Charlie Crist — what was NOT said 1:57:11INTERVIEW: Julie Wentz: The vision for Freedom Health Care is going to be different. 2:04:46The American Medical Association has become thoroughly corrupt and beyond reform. 2:21:17The global pandemic treaty and vaccine passports are still the goal of EU and global governance. 2:30:10TSA and the government are trying to push tyranny again with airline employees.2:44:39Find out more about the show and where you can watch it at TheDavidKnightShow.comIf you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-show Or you can send a donation throughZelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at:  $davidknightshowBTC to:  bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Mail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Money is only what YOU hold: Go to DavidKnight.gold for great deals on physical gold/silver

Cannibalism in Hollywood — and mainstream America follows. Why is it being celebrated along with Jeffrey Dahmer? 3:22It's rare to be able to hold money and not be corrupted by it. Multi-billionaire owner of Hobby Lobby on why he's giving away his fortune so he doesn't ruin the lives of children and grandchildren, “wealth can be a curse". 8:39What does Christian nationalism even mean? Something for both left and right to think about 21:37What's going on with "The Reawaken America Tour"? The left attacks, saying it "has brought together fanatical election deniers, anti-vaccine deniers and self-proclaimed prophets." 34:52Does the church need to "stay in its lane" to handle the challenges of this cultural moment? Should we "stay in the closet"? 45:00Rishi Sunak is a Davos Prince (like Trudeau and Rutte). But Rishi is focused on the financial controls and takeover — CBDC, ESG, surveillance 56:58Tulsi Gabbard's involvement with Davos and why she needs to come clean. 1:00:16In the wake of what Nigel Farage has called a “globalist coup”, Charles Walker and the UK had this to say. 1:07:35The reason why Liz Truss was kicked out of the government. 1:09:52WATCH: Rishi Sunak is a “world economic forum robot” — literally 1:19:41Baby Elephants are on the move as GOP candidates walk to the finish line. But are there NO angry bull elephants coming to take on tyranny? The pathetic tiptoeing around tyranny witnessed in the debates this week 1:33:17What is the "coalition of the fearful", and how did Democrats create it with Covid "decree violation scores"? 1:40:35What would you like to be two weeks out of a hotly contested election and have only 19 masked people show up to your townhall? 1:43:48Hillary Clinton, the original election conspiracy theorist, now says to her "invisibles" that right wing extremists have a plan to literally steal the next presidential election. 1:48:58Fetterman mumbles & stumbles during Tuesday's debate. 1:54:56Ron Desantis vs. Charlie Crist — what was NOT said 1:57:11INTERVIEW: Julie Wentz: The vision for Freedom Health Care is going to be different. 2:04:46The American Medical Association has become thoroughly corrupt and beyond reform. 2:21:17The global pandemic treaty and vaccine passports are still the goal of EU and global governance. 2:30:10TSA and the government are trying to push tyranny again with airline employees.2:44:39Find out more about the show and where you can watch it at TheDavidKnightShow.comIf you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-show Or you can send a donation throughZelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at:  $davidknightshowBTC to:  bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Mail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Money is only what YOU hold: Go to DavidKnight.gold for great deals on physical gold/silver