Podcasts about 20john

In this Thursday reflection on Third John, the letter's central cast — faithful Gaius, self-promoting Diotrephes, and well-regarded Demetrius — illuminates a practical question about the early church: how do you know whether to trust a wandering preacher? The answer is apostolic authority and community accountability, which is part of how ordination developed — a traceable chain of trust, so that the community could verify who sent the teacher and what they stood for. Gaius earns John's highest praise for supporting these traveling ministers even as strangers, and John frames that support with a beautiful phrase: we may become co-workers with the truth. The reflection turns that phrase into a direct word for laypeople today — your encouragement, your prayers, your practical support of the ministers in your life genuinely matter, and Scripture says so. The contrast with Diotrephes, who puts himself first and actively undermines apostolic authority, makes the point even sharper. The call is simple: do good, imitate what is good, encourage someone today — because when you do, you are co-laboring in the truth.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=3%20John%201&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form and subscribe to my Substack here - https://www.revandy.org 

In this Wednesday reflection on Second John, the short letter is read in full and unpacked around its central warning: many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. John's call to love one another is clarified — love here is not emotion but obedience, commitment, and self-sacrifice — and his instruction not to welcome false teachers into the house is about guarding sound doctrine, not refusing hospitality to strangers. The heresy John is combating is Gnosticism, the earliest major challenge the church faced, which taught that the physical body was corrupt and irredeemable, and therefore that Jesus didn't really come in the flesh, die, or rise bodily. The reflection pushes back firmly: the post-resurrection accounts are full of physicality — touching wounds, eating meals, walking roads — because Jesus was fully human and fully divine, and both matter. Wrong theology about the body also produces wrong living, since Gnosticism's logical conclusion was that it doesn't matter how you live. And in a modern application, social media has made functional Gnostics of many of us — we forget that the person on the other side of the screen is a real human being made in the image of God, with a body and a soul. People matter. Physicality matters. Jesus came in the flesh, and so do we.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20John%201&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://www.revandy.org 

In this Tuesday reflection that closes out First John, three threads from the final passage come together. The promise that God grants what we ask according to his will is clarified: it's not that God gives us whatever we want, but that he aligns our desires with his own — so that a heart truly surrendered to him begins to want what he wants. The closing command to keep away from idols gets personal: an idol is anything that fills in the blank after "I believe in God, but..." — whatever we trust more than we trust him. And the theologically rich distinction between mortal and venial sin is unpacked carefully: the key is not conflating the equality of sinfulness (we are all equally fallen and in need of Jesus) with the idea that every individual sin is identical in weight. Scripture doesn't teach that, and neither does the best of Christian tradition. The Eastern Orthodox framing rings truest — any sin is a mortal sin if it is not repented of. What matters ultimately is the posture of the heart, and the willingness to keep giving the Spirit room to convict, cleanse, and draw us closer to God.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%205%3A13-21&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://www.revandy.org 

In this Monday reflection on 1 John 5:6–12, John's three witnesses — the Spirit, the water, and the blood — are unpacked through the lens of Wesleyan theology to show how each one gives unified testimony to the same truth: eternal life is found in Jesus, and only in Jesus. The Spirit is the agent of prevenient grace, always going before us, calling, convicting, justifying, and sanctifying. The water is baptism — the sign of the new covenant, functioning as circumcision did under the old, marking us as God's covenant people. And the blood is the atoning work of Christ, by which our sins are washed away and through which we feast at the communion table — the sacraments themselves flowing from the wounded side of Jesus. Together, these three testify to the same thing: God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life. It's only ever about Jesus.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%205%3A6-12&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://www.revandy.org 

In this Friday reflection on 1 John 5:1–5, John's simple declaration — everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God — becomes the starting point for a pastoral word about primary and secondary issues of faith. Doctrinal and denominational differences are real and important; the preacher is a convinced Wesleyan and isn't pretending otherwise. But historically, the boundaries of orthodox Christianity have always been defined by two things: Jesus Christ and the Trinity. Everything else — baptism, communion, church governance, specific denominational doctrine — falls inside the sandbox, where there is plenty of room for disagreement among genuine brothers and sisters in Christ. Drawing on C.S. Lewis's concept of "mere Christianity" and the Old Testament story of the shibboleth, the reflection lands here: faith in Jesus Christ is the password, the marker, the foundation. On Christ the solid rock I stand; all other ground is sinking sand. It's all about Jesus — and it's dangerously easy to let it become about anything else.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%205%3A1-5&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://www.revandy.org

In this Thursday reflection on 1 John 4:7–21, three beloved verses anchor the whole passage. First, John's pointed challenge — how can you claim to love a God you've never seen while hating your neighbor standing right in front of you? — is sharpened by Dorothy Day's searching line: you only love God as much as you love the person you love the least. Our love for God and love for neighbor aren't separate categories; they're proportionally linked. Second, perfect love casts out fear — not because we won't experience fear, but because we don't have to be ruled by it. God is not a divine scorekeeper waiting for us to fail; he is for us, and knowing that deeply changes how we move through the world. Third and most foundational: the passage doesn't just say God loves, but that God is love — a statement not about what God does but about what God fundamentally is. His very nature is love. And if we are being conformed into his image, then we too will love — because that is what God is, and that is what we are becoming.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%204%3A7-21&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://andystoddard.substack.com/

In this Wednesday reflection on 1 John 4:1–6, the familiar verse — greater is he who is in you than he who is in the world— anchors a practical and pastoral call to discernment in a noisy world. We serve a mighty God who doesn't need us to defend him; the gates of hell will not prevail, and nothing will thwart his plan. But that confidence in God's strength is paired with a real responsibility: test the spirits, because not every voice claiming to speak truth is from God. Three practical tests emerge from the passage — does it confess Jesus as Lord? Does it produce the fruit of the Spirit? And does it create fear? Healthy caution is one thing, but voices that constantly inflame anxiety and dread are not from God — the same God who told Joshua over and over, do not be afraid, for I am with you. The call is simple: be intentional about what you let shape your soul, and build your life around the voices that draw you closer to Jesus.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%204%3A%201-6&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://andystoddard.substack.com/

In this Tuesday reflection on 1 John 3:11–24, the passage's command to love one another is grounded in the defining act of love itself — Christ laying down his life — and extended outward: love not just in word, but in truth and action, and not just toward fellow believers, but toward neighbors and enemies too, because the whole of Scripture leaves no room for a narrow definition of who deserves our love. The commandment John lands on is beautifully simple: believe in Jesus and love one another. We make faith far more complicated than it needs to be. But the heart of the reflection is verses 19 and 20 — a passage the preacher has carried since early faith: whenever our hearts condemn us, God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. So many of us are weighed down by guilt, regret, and internal condemnation that quietly becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. John's answer isn't to minimize the weight of that — it's to say that God, who knows every single thing about us, loves us still. You don't have to keep carrying it. You are loved more than you can imagine.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%203%3A11-24&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://andystoddard.substack.com/

In this Monday reflection on 1 John 2:29–3:10, a passage full of beloved verses — the Father's lavish love in calling us his children, the funeral liturgy promise that when he is revealed we will be like him, and the declaration that the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil — John also presents an apparent tension: if we say we have no sin we deceive ourselves, yet those born of God cannot sin. The resolution isn't that Christians achieve sinless perfection, but that the children of God are never content in sin — we give the Spirit room to convict us, we confess, we receive forgiveness, and we keep moving forward. The honest pastoral word is that we often struggle with the same sins repeatedly, and that's frustrating. But God's grace is not limited by our failures. Using the image of a rope being cut and knotted back together each time we are forgiven, the reflection pictures grace as the very thing that draws us progressively closer to God — so that even in our stumbling, he is pulling us nearer.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%202%3A%2029%20%E2%80%93%203%3A10&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://andystoddard.substack.com/

In this Friday reflection on 1 John 2:18–28, John's warning about "the antichrist" gets reframed in a way that's far more practically useful than the endless game of identifying one singular villain — whether that's Mikhail Gorbachev's birthmark in the '80s or whoever's being cast in that role today. John's real concern is the plural: many antichrists, defined simply as anyone who denies the Father and the Son. The more honest question for us is how we ourselves deny Christ — not in our stated beliefs, but in our actions, our words, and the company we keep on social media and beyond. The reflection lands on a pointed diagnostic: look at the voices you allow to speak into your life, and ask what they're producing in you. If the fruit is anger, contempt, and division, those voices are pulling you away from Jesus regardless of how righteous they sound. John's closing word is simple: abide in him — and be very careful what you let shape your soul.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%202%3A%2018-28&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://andystoddard.substack.com/

In this Thursday reflection on 1 John 2:7–17, John's "old-but-new" commandment turns out to be exactly what we talked about yesterday: love. And love, John argues, is the most reliable marker of whether we're actually walking in the light — because you can't claim to be in the light while hating your brother or sister. Actions don't save us, but they do reveal us, the way fruit reveals what kind of tree you're dealing with. Drawing on Matthew 25, Tertullian, and the witness of the early church, the reflection makes the case that love for one another — across doctrinal lines, across differences, within the whole household of faith — is the thing that should make the watching world stop and take notice. Then John flips the contrast: don't love the things of the world — wealth, status, the approval of others, the endless desire for more — because all of it is passing away. What's eternal is love: love of Jesus, love of neighbor, love that is God's own perfect love shed in our hearts. That's the mark. That's what lasts.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%202%3A%207-17&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://andystoddard.substack.com/

In this Wednesday reflection on 1 John 2:1–6, the phrase "the love of God has reached perfection" becomes a springboard for a pastoral tour through one of Methodism's most distinctive — and most misunderstood — doctrines: Christian perfection. The passage holds the same honest tension as the previous chapter: we are going to sin, Christ has atoned for it, and we have an advocate. But the deeper question is what perfection actually means. The reflection pushes back against the common assumption that holiness is a legalistic checklist of moral performance — don't play cards, don't see movies, don't listen to secular music — and argues instead that Christian perfection, in the Wesleyan sense, is never about perfect action but about God's perfect love being restored in us through sanctifying grace. The goal of salvation, as Wesley understood it, is the recovery of the image of God — which enables us to keep the greatest commandment: love God fully and love your neighbor as yourself. That's what holiness looks like. And it's why the means of grace — Scripture, prayer, communion, fasting, community — matter so much: they are the channels through which that love grows and changes us.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%202%3A%201-6&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://andystoddard.substack.com/

In this Tuesday reflection on 1 John 1:5–10, the light-and-darkness imagery that runs through John's Gospel flows directly into the letter — God is light, and walking in fellowship with him means being called continually out of the dark. The key distinction John makes is not between sinning and not sinning — we all sin, and to claim otherwise is to make God a liar — but between remaining in darkness and walking in the light, where the blood of Jesus keeps cleansing us as we go. The pastoral heart of the reflection centers on verse 9: if we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Crucially, confession doesn't trigger God's forgiveness — God's forgiveness isn't transactional or conditional on our performance. Rather, confession is the moment we speak our failure aloud and hear back the words our souls most need: you are still beloved, you are forgiven. There is no greater gift.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%201%3A%205-10&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://andystoddard.substack.com/

In this Monday reflection opening a new series through First John, the focus falls on the letter's opening declaration: we tell you what we have seen, heard, and touched — which John frames as the foundation of Christian fellowship and the source of complete joy. Drawing on the Southern tradition of testimony and Revelation 12:11, the reflection makes the case that our testimony is one of the most powerful tools we have — and that testimony isn't just the story of our conversion, but the ongoing story of what Jesus is doing in our lives right now. The heart of the passage, and of the message, is this: experiencing Jesus is never meant to stop with us. John wrote so that others could join the fellowship, and our joy becomes complete when the people we love come to know Jesus too. The practical challenge is simple — tell your story this week, to your family, your friends, and when you're feeling brave, to someone who doesn't know Jesus yet.Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%201%3A%201-4&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://andystoddard.substack.com/

Apple Apple Spotify Spotify Main Scripture - Matthew 28:18-20 Download the Group Guide Download the Group Guide Trusting Jesus Changes Your AuthorityMatthew 28:18-20John 8:56-58Acts 1:8Following Jesus Forms a Culture of DiscipleshipMatthew 28:18-201 Corinthians 15:3-4Romans 6:4Romans 6:10-13Discipleship Forms a Vision for the FutureMatthew 28:20Revelation 21:1-4Jeremiah 29:11Application points:Trust the authority of Jesus for your lifeOrient your vision for life around discipleshipGrow in knowledge, application, and practice of faithBuild a Christian future by helping as many people as possible become fully devoted followers of Jesus

Surrender To Relationship | Becoming CHRIST (Week 2)In Week 2 of our Becoming CHRIST series, we shift the focus from striving to surrender—discovering that real transformation doesn't come from self-improvement, but from relationship with Jesus.Through Galatians 2:20 and John 15:4–5, we explore what it means to stop “living for Jesus” and start living with Him. Jesus never invited us into a performance-based life—He invited us into connection, dependence, and daily relationship.This message is a powerful invitation to put down the oars, stop striving, and raise the sail—allowing the Holy Spirit to do what only He can do.

Introduction: Psalm 32:5 – I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin. Proverbs 28:13 – Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy. Conceal or Confess? If You Want to Confess: (1 John 1:5 - 2:6) You Have to Be Done LYING About Your Sin. (1 John 1:5-10) 3 Lies You Have to Stop Claiming: I BELIEVE in God. (When You Don't LIVE Like It.) (1 John 1:6-7) I'm a GOOD Person. (1 John 1:8-9) I Don't SIN. (1 John 1:10) You Have to Come to JESUS. (1 John 2:1-2) Your LIFESTYLE Proves Your Sincerity. (1 John 2:3-6) Hebrews 4:14 - Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Audio Transcript 00:00-00:09Open up those Bibles to the passage that Levi just read, 1 John 1.00:12-00:14While you're turning there, let's just quiet our hearts for a moment.00:14-00:19And I'm going to ask that you would please pray for me to faithfully communicate God's Word.00:21-00:29And I'll pray for you to have a heart open to receive what it is the Lord wants to teach us from His Word tonight.00:29-00:31All right, let's pray.00:33-00:44Father in heaven, I pray that this time would allow us to feel the weight of what it is we're remembering here tonight.00:46-00:48We're so distracted with so many things.00:50-01:02I just pray, Father, by the power of Your Spirit, everything is off our minds and hearts except your word.01:06-01:14And that we would be honest enough with ourselves to see things as you see them.01:18-01:24Thank you, Father, for the sacrifice that was made.01:26-01:29You spared not your own son.01:34-01:38We pray in the glorious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, amen.01:40-01:41Amen.01:41-01:46We're in this series, this short series called Respect the Office.01:49-01:54That if Jesus presented a resume, it would have a lot on it.01:56-02:00But there are three roles in particular.02:02-02:07We're just sort of slowing down and looking at, and last Sunday Pastor Rich talked about Jesus as prophet.02:08-02:10He is the word of God.02:10-02:14Who God is, is represented in Jesus.02:16-02:22Tonight, we're going to see that Jesus Christ is our priest.02:25-02:27What is a priest, anyways?02:28-02:36Well, in the simplest terms, the prophet represented God to man.02:37-02:42And the priest represents man to God.02:43-02:50And in the Old Testament, the priests offered sacrifices from sinners to God at the temple.02:51-03:12So tonight, as our minds naturally think of Jesus Christ on the cross, what you need to see in your mind in that moment when Jesus was on the cross, was He was not only the the sacrifice that was being offered for sin.03:12-03:17At the same time, He was the priest who was offering the sacrifice.03:19-03:28Jesus Christ, as our priest, came to deal with our sin.03:32-03:51There is one thing you must do Before you can receive forgiveness, before you can have a relationship with God at all, there's one thing you have to do.03:52-03:53You have to confess.03:55-04:09And if you're a Christian, if you are truly born again, and you're sitting here tonight, and you're wondering why your walk is so weak, why you aren't the strong Christian that you thought you would be by now.04:13-04:15Maybe you stopped confessing.04:16-04:19Look at verse 9 again.04:21-04:30If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.04:34-04:36We're going to talk about confess tonight.04:37-04:39What does it mean to confess?04:41-04:44Well, in the Greek, it's a compound word.04:44-04:54It literally means, "say the same." In other words, to confess means that you're agreeing with God.04:56-04:58Agreeing with God that you are a sinner.04:58-05:02Agreeing with God that your sin is wrong.05:05-05:06I agree with God.05:07-05:08It's saying I'm guilty.05:09-05:11I'm not a good person.05:11-05:16I look at my actions and I do things that are just shameful.05:18-05:21I hear the words that come out of my mouth sometimes.05:22-05:24What is wrong with me?05:27-05:27Shameful.05:29-05:38So I look into my heart and I realize, there's something broken in me.05:40-05:41There's something evil in me.05:44-05:47How is it that I can be so full of selfishness?05:47-05:51How is it that I can be so full of hatred sometimes?05:52-05:53How is it that I can be so full of lust?05:55-05:56Why is that?06:00-06:01Confessing is agreeing with God.06:05-06:10And the three hardest words that you will ever say, it's not, "I love you." Those ones are hard.06:10-06:12But there are three harder words to say.06:13-06:24And those words are these, "I have sinned." To get to the point where you are saying this from your heart, "I've sinned.06:25-06:26I have sinned.06:27-06:30You know, I was thinking about that a lot this week and preparing for this message.06:31-06:32Why is that so hard?06:35-06:46I mean, it's clear in the Bible, it's clear from observation that we have a problem, but why is it so hard for me to get to that place where I say, "I have sinned"?06:46-06:49Why is it so hard for you to admit that, to confess that?06:52-06:53I think it's a lot of things.06:55-06:57I think the big reason is pride, right?06:58-07:02To admit that you're a sinner is also an admission of weakness.07:02-07:06I'm not the morally strong person that I want to think that I am.07:07-07:15Maybe it's hard to confess that I am a sinner because deep down the reality is we actually kind of like our sin.07:16-07:19We would miss it if it wasn't in our lives.07:19-08:13is that. If you're sitting here tonight and you're like, "Well, I don't feel like I love my sin. I want out of it, but I feel trapped in it. I'm in bondage to it." That's hard to confess. That something is so ruling over you. "I don't want to do this, but I keep doing it. What is my problem?" You know, I think really for a lot of us, it's hard to say I have sinned because it's just so hard to not see yourself as the hero in your own story. Sometimes you're the bad guy. So am I. Acknowledging sin is uncomfortable. It's offensive. And it just it goes against our natural inclinations.08:17-08:18Here's the reality from God's Word.08:20-08:21Unsaved people.08:22-08:29People who don't sincerely know the Lord, are always going to try to downplay sin.08:31-08:32It's not that big of a deal.08:33-08:36And one of the ways they do that is by trying to redefine sin.08:36-08:40We won't call it sin, we'll call it something else and kind of soften the blow.08:41-08:46But the big one is, unsaved people conceal their sin.08:47-08:48Let's keep it hidden.08:48-08:50Let's make sure nobody finds out about it.08:50-08:52They conceal their sin.08:55-09:05Saved people, on the other hand, according to that passage Levi just read, saved people confess their sin.09:08-09:10So tonight I just want to ask you one question.09:12-09:12What are you doing?09:16-09:18Conceal or confess?09:19-09:20Which one are you?09:25-09:32Bible's so clear about this and what's at stake in this.09:33-09:40Psalm 32.5 says, "I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity.09:41-09:49I said, 'I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,' and you forgave the iniquity of my sin." Do you see that?09:51-09:52Conceal or confess.09:55-10:20Same thing, Proverbs 28.13 says, "Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper. But he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy." So what are you doing with your sin? Are you concealing it? Or are you confessing it?10:23-10:33So on your outline, if you're taking notes, it says at the top, "Conceal or confess?" And there might be some people in here that are honest enough to say, you know what, I'd rather just conceal it.10:34-10:37And I would say respectfully, I don't know why you're here tonight.10:41-10:42You should have stayed home.10:45-10:48But I do know that there are some people here tonight that are like, you know what?10:51-10:53It's gone on beyond too long.10:54-10:54I need to confess.10:56-10:57I need to confess.10:57-11:03Well, I'm so glad you're here, if that's you, because I want to help you with that, from the Word of God.11:03-11:07So on your outline, if you want to confess, number one, this is where you have to start.11:09-11:11You have to be done lying about your sin.11:11-11:12You have to be done with that.11:13-11:16You have to be done lying about your sin.11:18-11:19Again, look at verse five.11:20-11:29He says, "This is the message we have heard from Him "and proclaimed to you, God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.11:30-11:31God is light.11:32-11:38We could spend a whole sermon series talking about that, but the bottom line is this, that represents life.11:39-11:40That represents holiness.11:41-11:43There is no death in God.11:43-11:45There's no unholiness in God.11:45-11:46There's no sin.11:46-11:48There's no darkness of any kind in God.11:49-11:54A man, on the other hand, I probably don't have to sell you on that, do I?11:57-12:04And you see, when we talk about confessing, yes, you absolutely must confess with your mouth.12:07-12:10But, it has to ultimately start in your heart.12:12-12:18Because you can say something with your mouth that isn't actually true in your heart.12:20-12:27And when you say something that's not true, that's called telling a lie.12:28-12:30And that's where John starts here.12:31-12:32Like, you want to confess?12:33-12:33You've got to be done lying.12:36-12:46You see, three times in this passage, he says, "if we claim" or "if we say" "if we say" "if we say" He's pointing out the lies We tell ourselves.12:47-12:48He goes, you've got to stop that.12:49-12:50Let's look at them quickly.12:51-12:53Three lies you've got to stop claiming.12:54-12:55You've got to stop these.12:55-12:57Number, or letter A, sorry, letter A.12:58-13:00Here's a lie that a lot of people are saying.13:01-13:02I believe in God.13:05-13:07When you don't live like it.13:09-13:15People are saying, yeah, I believe in God, but they don't live like they know Him at all.13:16-13:18It's a lie, right?13:18-13:19Not my opinion, look at verse six.13:20-13:31He says, "If we say we have fellowship with Him, with God, while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.13:32-13:35If we claim we have fellowship with Him," do you know what that is?13:36-13:40That's the guy or the girl that says, "Oh, I believe in God.13:41-13:42"Oh yeah, yeah, I believe in God.13:42-13:43I know God.13:44-13:49I mean, yeah, I'm a Christian." But he says they walk in darkness.13:49-13:54They're living in some secret, sinful lifestyle.13:57-13:59And John points out here, look, you're living a lie.14:00-14:02You're just, you're living a lie.14:03-14:05I don't know who you think you're fooling, but it's not God.14:07-14:08And this is a hard truth.14:11-14:14that I think tonight we need to confront ourselves with.14:15-14:18Not everyone who claims to know God actually does know God.14:20-14:23Not everyone who claims they know God is actually heading to heaven.14:26-14:33Not everyone who's sitting in a church, not just tonight, any church, week after week, not everyone sitting in a church is saved.14:37-15:04I got to tell you, I talk to a lot of people who will be talking about a family member of theirs, their brother, or their adult children, or their parents, and we'll be talking about these family members, and I'm like, "Well, do they know the Lord?" And they'll say, "Well, yeah, they're Christians." And then they say, "But they haven't gone to church "in years, they're not interested in praying.15:05-15:08They really don't want to have any spiritual conversations.15:09-15:12You know, I invited them to Good Friday service and they absolutely didn't want to come.15:14-15:15But yeah, he's a Christian.15:18-15:24I mean, yeah, he's living in adultery right now.15:25-15:26Oh, he's foul-mouthed.15:27-15:29And he is such a heavy drinker.15:32-15:32But he's a Christian.15:35-15:36Based on what?15:37-15:39What are you basing that on?15:39-15:41And you know what the response usually is?15:41-15:47Well, one time we were in a church and they said they believed in God.15:48-15:51They like raised their hand in a service one time.15:54-15:55But what does the Bible say?15:56-15:58Do you see that in verse six?15:58-16:03If we say we have fellowship, but we're walking in darkness, what does your Bible say?16:04-16:05It says you're lying.16:06-16:06It's just not true.16:10-16:12But on the other hand, look at verse seven.16:12-16:25He says, "But if we walk in the light, "as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, "and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." Walking in the light.16:26-16:27No hidden sin.16:29-16:35No secret sin that you hope to heaven nobody finds out about.16:43-16:46You sin, you confess.16:48-16:49You are walking in the light.16:50-16:51You're like, yeah, I did sin.16:51-16:53That was wrong what I did.16:53-16:54It was wrong in God's eyes.16:54-16:55I've sinned against my family.16:55-16:56I'm confessing that.16:56-16:58I'm getting with God on this.16:58-17:04I'm getting accountability on this to help me drag this to the light.17:07-17:09So what's your plan tonight?17:09-17:10Are you going to conceal?17:12-17:13Or are you going to confess?17:20-17:23You're walking in the light or you're walking in darkness?17:26-17:28There's no middle ground, by the way.17:29-17:33The Bible doesn't talk about walking in half light or half dark.17:33-17:36What typifies your life right now?17:37-17:39Which one describes you?17:40-17:42Are you walking in the light?17:45-17:47Or is there a whole lot of stuff that you're trying to keep concealed?17:51-17:53Well, John says, "Stop lying.17:54-17:54"Stop lying.17:54-17:59"Your claim of believing in God means nothing if your life is characterized by sin.18:00-18:03All right, so that's a lie you have to stop claiming.18:03-18:06Here's another lie you have to stop.18:07-18:08Letter B, I'm a good person.18:11-18:12I'm a good person.18:12-18:14Well, let's see what the Bible says about that, verse eight.18:14-18:22If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.18:23-18:25We claim we're without sin.18:26-18:27I'm not that bad.18:28-18:32I mean, I'm actually a good person.18:33-18:39Like deep down, you know, deep down, I have a good heart.18:40-18:42I'm a good person deep down.18:44-18:45God knows that.18:48-18:49Here's what God knows.18:51-18:54God knows that you were born with a sin nature that you inherited from Adam.18:55-18:58that's been passed down from generation to generation, and you got it.19:02-19:02Don't believe me?19:04-19:07Sometimes I have people challenge me on this, like I don't think that we're born with a sin nature.19:08-19:09I don't think that that's true.19:09-19:11I don't think that we are born with a sin nature.19:11-19:13I'm like, have you ever been around a kid?19:14-19:15Ever?19:17-19:18(congregation laughing)19:19-19:21That's exactly what I'm talking about.19:25-19:28That's exactly what I'm talking about, that little sinner tried to hijack the sermon.19:31-19:33You just proved my point, little lamb.19:40-19:43And look, if you don't have kids, there's plenty of people around here that do have them.19:43-19:45I'm sure they'll let you hang out.19:47-19:49I'm sure they might ask you to watch them for a few days.19:55-19:56Who has ever taught a kid?19:58-19:59I mean, think of a little toddler.20:00-20:01Think of little Joey back there.20:02-20:06Does dad ever sit down with him and say, "Listen, listen, Joey, I'm gonna teach you "something important here.20:07-20:12"If you learn how to lie convincingly, "you're gonna go far in life, all right?20:13-20:17"I guess, son, what I'm saying is "always cover your tracks, okay?20:18-20:25"Because if you got away with it, then you've mastered the art of deception.20:26-20:29Has any dad sat down with their kid and taught them that?20:29-20:30I sure hope not.20:30-20:31You're a monster.20:31-20:33You're a monster if you're teaching your kid how to sin.20:34-20:36But you don't have to.20:37-20:45How is it that these kids automatically know how to sneak, how to lie, how to steal, how to be selfish?20:45-20:46How do they know that?20:47-20:50Like, were they reading some manual in the womb?20:50-20:51Like, what is going on here?20:54-20:55We're born with a sin nature.20:57-20:59So if you're like, "Well, you know what?21:00-21:01I'm really not that bad.21:01-21:05I'm not really a bad person." The Bible says you're deceiving to yourself.21:05-21:09You're telling a lie, and then you're turning around and believing the own lie that you just told yourself.21:12-21:13You say you have a good heart?21:15-21:30Actually if that's your stance, if that's your stance here tonight, to think that you're You're really a good person, I've got to tell you, you're in a hopeless situation when it comes to the gospel, because you're not going to confess.21:32-21:36What can God do for someone who doesn't think that they need Him?21:39-21:40It's a hopeless situation.21:44-21:45Look at verse nine again.21:45-21:56If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins, excuse me, forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.21:59-22:02I did a lot of reading this past week in preparing for this.22:02-22:12And you get to this verse, and these scholars and commentators are like, is this verse for believers, or is this verse for unbelievers?22:16-22:28The answer is yes. The answer is yes. Confession is like repentance. Think about repentance.22:29-22:44Is repentance something you do when you first come to Christ? Yeah. But if you're a true born again believer in Christ, when do you stop repenting? Never. In Matthew 3.8, Luke 3.8, both say the exact same thing.22:45-22:49Bear fruit in keeping with repentance.22:49-22:53Repentance is to be the lifestyle of the follower of Jesus.22:54-22:56And confession is exactly the same.22:56-22:59In coming to Christ, you have to confess.22:59-23:07And if you're a Christian, your life is typified by constant acknowledgment of your sin before a holy God.23:11-23:18regular occurrence in our walk with Christ, Christians are characterized as confessors.23:20-23:23A true Christian is always going to God.23:23-23:25"God, I hate my sin.23:25-23:27God, this is what I did.23:27-23:29I messed up.23:29-23:29I sinned.23:30-23:33God, specifically, here is what I did.23:34-23:35God, I need to change.23:35-23:37God, I'm confessing that.23:38-23:42Thank You for the forgiveness that You've purchased through Your Son, Jesus Christ, God.23:42-23:49I need the power of Your Spirit to help me repent." That is how a Christian confesses their sin.23:51-23:54And John says that God's response is to forgive and purify.23:56-23:57Why does He do that?23:59-24:00Because you're worthy?24:03-24:03Not hardly.24:04-24:09John says he does that because he, he is faithful and just.24:11-24:17See, God's forgiveness is based on his promise, not your performance.24:17-24:21God's forgiveness comes to you on his terms, not your terms.24:22-24:28And God's forgiveness, the assurance that we have that we are forgiven is because of God's integrity.24:30-24:39that I can say, "I know that I have the promise of heaven," not because of me, I know I have the promise of heaven because I believe in a God who always keeps His word.24:41-24:42And this is what He's promised.24:45-24:50So if you're sitting here tonight, you're like, "Yeah, I'm a good person." You're really not.24:52-24:59As long as you think you are, you're not going to understand what the cross of Jesus Christ was all about.25:01-25:03Three lies you need to stop claiming.25:04-25:07Letter C, same vein here, right?25:07-25:08Letter C, I don't sin.25:11-25:12I don't sin.25:13-25:15Believe it or not, I've met people that have made that claim.25:15-25:16Look at verse 10.25:16-25:30He says, "If we say we have not sinned, "we make him a liar and his word is not in us." If we claim we have not sinned, that's the person, And again, I've met these people, they're like, "Sin?25:33-25:43I don't sin." Well, you did just call God a liar then because He says differently.25:46-25:50It's one of the interesting things about sin, wouldn't you say?25:50-26:00interesting, that we tend to minimize our sin and we maximize other people's sin.26:02-26:08Ours is so small and insignificant, but somebody else's, oh boy, they really blew it.26:14-26:16God wants to deal with you about your sin.26:18-26:24And you can't confess Jesus as a Savior if you say you don't have what He saves from.26:27-26:36And if you refuse to acknowledge your sin, you refuse to admit, you refuse to confess your sin, then the cross means nothing.26:38-26:45And we come to a service like this, we think of Jesus Christ on the cross, and we're really left wondering why did he die in the first place?26:48-26:49Concealer confess.26:53-26:53What are you doing?26:58-26:59Concealer confess.26:59-27:01Are you going to leave tonight lying to yourself?27:04-27:07Or are you going to finally agree with God?27:12-27:23So if you want to confess, if that's you, and I want to help you, first of all, you gotta stop lying to yourself, you gotta stop lying to God, you gotta stop lying to everybody, you gotta stop the lies.27:23-27:27Number two, you have to come to Jesus.27:30-27:33Confession is about the person of Jesus Christ.27:33-27:47Look at verse one, he says, in chapter two, "My little children, I'm writing these things to you "so that you may not sin." But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ, the righteous.27:49-28:01John says, "Look, I'm writing this so you don't sin." God's Word doesn't allow us to have a dismissive attitude about sin, which a lot of Christians have.28:02-28:05It's like, "Well, yeah, I sin, but it doesn't really matter.28:05-28:10I'm forgiven in Christ." we just sort of dismiss it.28:12-28:13John goes, "No, no, no, no.28:14-28:35I'm writing these things to you so that you are turning from sin." He goes, "But if anybody does sin, and you will," spoiler alert, "you will," John says, "when you sin, you have an advocate, if you're in Christ." And this is one of the most beautiful pictures in all the Bible.28:36-28:39You know, it's a courtroom scene actually.28:39-28:45Revelation chapter 12 says that Satan is the accuser of the brethren.28:45-28:46Do you know what Satan does?28:47-28:52He goes before God, and if you're a follower of Christ, Satan accuses you before God.28:53-28:55Satan's like, he's no good.28:57-28:58Did you hear what he said?28:58-29:00That's one of your guys?29:00-29:01Did you hear what he said?29:02-29:03That's what Satan does.29:03-29:06Satan, he's a slanderer, he's an accuser.29:06-29:10But you see, when Jesus Christ is your advocate, he is your defense attorney.29:11-29:22That when Satan says, "Do you see what a miserable person this is?" Jesus steps up and says, "He did sin, "but I took his sin on myself when I died on the cross." He's forgiven.29:22-29:25He is not guilty because I paid that penalty.29:27-29:28And Satan goes to the next person.29:28-29:30You see what a miserable person she is?29:30-29:31Do you hear how she talked?29:31-29:32Do you see what she did?29:33-29:43Jesus says, "I died for her." All of the sin that was committed by her, Jesus said, "When I was on the cross, I paid the penalty." She is not guilty.29:45-29:50That's what it means that Jesus as our advocate, and that is way better than Edgar Snyder.29:53-29:55Owen might not think so.29:57-29:58If you know, you know.29:59-30:00Look at verse two.30:03-30:10He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.30:11-30:12Propitiation.30:12-30:15Oh, that's like one of the best words in the Bible.30:15-30:20John's just hitting like all of the most awesome concepts in a row right here.30:21-30:27Propitiation, your Bible might translate it, atoning, sacrifice, but this is a concept that you really need to understand.30:28-30:29Propitiation just simply means this.30:30-30:34God is satisfied with what Jesus did on the cross.30:35-30:36That's what it means.30:36-30:43When Jesus was on the cross, God was pouring out his wrath on Jesus for my sin and for your sin.30:44-30:47God put all of the wrath that I deserve on Jesus.30:47-30:50And that is awesome news because you know what that means?30:50-30:52God has no more wrath left for me.30:54-30:57And if you're in Christ, he has no wrath left for you.30:57-31:07And Christian, you've gotta get this in your head I've talked to so many Christians that are like, "I just really feel like God's mad at me, "and I feel like God's so disappointed in me." He's not!31:08-31:16It's not like God poured out His wrath on Jesus, and then God turns around and sees you sinning, and is like, "Oh, I'm still mad!31:17-31:20"I gotta punish her now, too!" That's not how it works.31:22-31:23Propitiation, God is satisfied.31:24-31:29He has no wrath for you if you've truly received Jesus Christ.31:32-31:47And not just for you, not just for you, look at verse two, he goes on to say, "Not for ours only, "not for our sins only, "but also for the sins of the whole world." Again, this is where a lot of scholars get caught up.31:50-31:55I just, you're like, "Oh, you think you're smarter than those scholars." No, I don't.31:55-31:57I think they're too smart sometimes.31:58-32:01I think they make this way too complicated.32:03-32:04You know what I mean by that?32:04-32:16You know, I was reading, and I heard some pastoral panel thing, they were talking about this very verse, and they were like, what is being talked about here for the sins of the whole world?32:16-32:19Is he talking about the elect?32:19-32:20Like it's just for the elect?32:22-32:25Is this speaking to limited atonement?32:28-32:33You're making this way more complicated than it needs to be.32:33-32:34Do you know what this means?32:35-32:36Do you know what this verse means?32:36-32:38I'll tell you what this verse means.32:39-32:39Right here.32:41-32:49What this verse is saying is I can confidently say to anyone, when you believe in Jesus, you will be forgiven of your sins.32:50-32:52You will be adopted as a child of God.32:52-32:54I can say that to anybody, because it's for the whole world.32:54-33:04I can say that here, I can say that in Thailand, I can say that in Blonox, it doesn't matter where I am, this truth holds, Jesus forgives sin.33:06-33:08Let God figure out all that other stuff.33:10-33:14My job is to tell the world, and your job too.33:16-33:17Concealer confess.33:19-33:19Conceal or confess.33:21-33:31At this point, if you're still wanting to conceal, you're committed to walking out of here like, "Yeah, I just can't, I can't come clean about my sin.33:31-33:38"Not to God, not to anybody." Well, it's not gonna go well for you.33:39-33:45Remember what the Proverbs writers say, that if you conceal your sin, you're not gonna prosper.33:46-33:48It's not gonna go well for you.33:51-33:57But if you want to confess, that's business that you have to do with Jesus.33:59-34:16Not only confessing who you are as a sinner, but confession includes saying who He is, agreeing with God who Jesus is, agreeing with God that Jesus is your advocate, agreeing with God that Jesus is your propitiation, agreeing with God about that.34:17-34:24If 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.34:28-34:34So this night more than any other probably reminds us why Jesus is the only one who can take your sin away.34:35-34:36Nobody else can do that.34:38-34:46Nobody else can make you be pronounced not guilty in the courtroom of God.34:49-34:50Conceal or confess?34:52-34:59Well, if you want to confess, number three, your lifestyle proves your sincerity.35:02-35:04Your lifestyle proves your sincerity.35:05-35:07Look at verses 3 through 6 again.35:08-35:13He says, "And by this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments.35:15-35:20Whoever says, "I know Him," but does not keep His commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him.35:21-35:27But whoever keeps His word in him, truly the love of God is perfected.35:28-35:34By this we may know that we are in Him.35:35-35:41Whoever says he abides in Him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.35:44-35:48I'm sure if the hospitality team grabbed every person on the way out, do you wanna confess?35:48-35:50I'm sure they would get 100%.35:50-35:51Yeah, I confess.35:51-35:52I can, yeah, I confess.35:58-36:02We'll find out if it's sincere by how you live, right?36:03-36:05That's why he says it in verse three.36:05-36:06He says it at the end of verse five.36:07-36:08We know that we have come to know him.36:09-36:10We know that we are saved.36:10-36:12Like what's the evidence?36:12-36:15How do I really know if I'm saved or not?36:15-36:16How would I know that?36:16-36:17He tells you right here.36:17-36:19Here's how you know that you're saved.36:19-36:20You keep his commands.36:22-36:28The proof that you know God is just simply you do what he says.36:32-36:34It's not just what you claim.36:37-36:38Are you saved?36:38-36:38You know the Lord.36:39-36:40And people say, well, you know what?36:40-36:46I was baptized 17 years ago at First Baptist Church of so-and-so.36:47-36:47Goody.36:49-36:51That's not evidence that you're saved, though.36:53-37:05Or somebody says, "Well, I go to church almost every week." I mean, not when Declan has lacrosse, but every other week I'm in church.37:05-37:06Great.37:08-37:10I strongly encourage church attendance.37:10-37:13I think that's a good thing, but that's not evidence of salvation.37:14-37:17Evidence of salvation is I do what God tells me to do.37:19-37:22It's just that simple, according to John.37:24-37:30I believe, I believe not verified by what you say, I believe is verified by how you live.37:30-37:32Are you gonna conceal or are you gonna confess tonight?37:33-37:34Which is it?37:36-37:51Because obviously, if you really agree with God that sin is evil, you're going to be constantly confessing and forsaking sin.37:55-37:57So do you live a life of confession?38:01-38:04Do you agree with God about your sin?38:06-38:19And do you agree with God concerning what He said the crucifixion of His Son accomplished for the person who will turn to Him?38:22-38:23Our worship team would make their way back up.38:26-38:54And our communion servers, we're gonna close our time around the Lord's table And you do not have to be a member of Harvard's Bible Chapel to take communion, but you do have to be a born-again believer in Christ. This is for believers.38:58-39:02And fellow Christians, it is gathering around the Lord's table.39:02-39:06Well, this is a time to confess everything.39:08-39:11Everything that John said in this passage, we get to confess that right now.39:13-39:21When we take these elements, what we're saying, what we're confessing, I confess that my sin is evil and wrong in the eyes of God.39:22-39:23I confess that.39:24-39:27I confess that Jesus Christ died for my sin.39:29-39:35I confess that God is satisfied with the work that Jesus accomplished on my behalf.39:37-39:40I confess Jesus Christ is my advocate.39:41-39:46I confess that I need His Spirit to make me who God wants me to be.39:49-40:00I confess that I will prove that I believe when I obey God in every area of my life.40:03-40:16Hebrews 4.14 says, "Since then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God.40:18-40:22Let us hold fast our confession.40:24-40:36We're going to ask, when you're ready, if you would come down to the center aisles and receive the elements from one of our pastors, and you can return to your seat by the outside aisle.40:37-40:49I'm going to ask that you hold on to it, and let's confess together tonight, church, that We are agreeing with God in all these things.40:52-40:54So please come, take the elements.40:56-40:57This is our confession.40:59-41:05This is our agreeing with God that Jesus is who God said He is.41:06-41:09And that Jesus accomplished what God said He accomplished.41:11-41:16The Bible tells us on the night that Jesus was betrayed, He took bread and he broke it and he gave thanks.41:17-41:20And he said, "This is my body, which is broken for you.41:21-41:45Eat this in remembrance of me." After the meal, Bible tells us that Jesus took the cup and he said, "This cup is my blood, the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for the forgiveness of sin.41:46-41:48Drink this in remembrance of me.41:50-41:51What are you doing tonight?41:54-41:56Conceal or confess?41:59-42:01Jesus has quite a resume.42:04-42:06As the prophet, he is the word of God.42:08-42:11As the priest, he takes away our sin.42:12-42:15I want to invite you to come back in two days on Sunday.42:15-42:26Pastor Taylor is going to talk about the other role that Jesus has, the King of Kings.42:27-42:28You don't want to miss that.42:30-42:31You are loved. Small Group DiscussionRead 1 John 1:5-2:6What was your big take-away from this passage / message?BreakoutPray for one another.

In this episode we talk about the dangers of isolation and how important it is to have genuine, vulnerable relationships with other believersScriptures referenced:1 Samuel 24-25Luke 5:15-16Mark 1:35-38Psalm 105:4Hebrews 11:6Ecclesiastes 4:9-12Proverbs 18:1John 2:24-25Matthew 26:36-38Matthew 23:12Luke 14:11Luke 18:14James 4:6Galatians 6:1-2Proverbs 27:17Hebrews 3:12-13Hebrews 10:24-25John 13:34-35Ephesians 4:32Colossians 3:16James 5:16John 6:70Matthew 26:20-221 Peter 4:10-111 Corinthians 12:12-20John 15:1-5Proverbs 26:12Proverbs 12:15Romans 12:16James 1:22**CORRECTIONS**At one point, I said "In John 2:24-23" (which makes no sense). What I meant to say was John 2:24-25.I accidentally added the word "and" to 1 Peter 4:10-11. It didn't change the meaning, but here is the verse verbatim: "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."I did something similar with 1 Corinthians 12:14, which says, "For the body does not consist of one member but of many."Feel free to email the podcast at ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com, and we will respond as soon as we are able!I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, or if you would like to do this in someone else's life, feel free to email us at info@mentoringmen.net. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled". Also note that despite the ministry's name, M3 disciples both men and women; so, the offer is open to all!I WANT TO SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTERIf you would like to sign up to receive newsletter updates, simply click "I want to sign up for the newsletter" and fill out the form. Also, feel free to check out our most recent newsletter.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast". I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!...

A sermon preached by Rev. Ginger Gaines-Cirelli with Foundry UMC March 22 2026. “Ignite the Light” series.  Text: John 11:1-45   It is Women's History Month. And right now, there are real reminders that the struggle for women's full dignity—in society and in the church—is not behind us. Legislation like the SAVE Act (being debated this very weekend in the Senate) threatens to create new barriers to voting, not just for women, but most certainly barriers that will disproportionately affect women, especially those whose legal names no longer match their birth certificates. At the same time, there is a growing movement in some corners of Christianity to restrict women from preaching and leadership. And I know this part isn't abstract. In the clips of my sermons regularly getting posted these days on social media, it's common to receive comments discrediting anything I say only because I'm a woman saying it. Arguments against women in church leadership are often justified by appeals to scripture—some reflecting the norms of the time, others drawn from how women show up (or don't) in the Gospel stories. You know the ones: “All the disciples were men!” // Today, our Gospel story has a lot going on in it. Yes, the big reveal is Lazarus coming out of that tomb. But there is so much more: There is a political crisis. A theological crisis. And—if we look closely—a buried story. A buried female story. Because at the heart of this story is a question about who gets to speak the truth about who Jesus is—and what happens when that truth comes from a voice some would rather not hear. John's Gospel is organized around seven astonishing “signs.” The raising of Lazarus is the seventh. And it is the one that gets Jesus killed. Right after Lazarus is raised, the religious authorities decide: “He must die.” Which makes me wonder—Jesus has healed before. Fed thousands. Turned water into wine. Why is this sign the turning point?  To understand that, we look back to the prophet Ezekiel. In chapter 37, he sees a valley of dry bones—an image of a defeated people. God speaks, breath enters them, and they rise. God says, “I will open your graves… and bring you back to your land.” This is not just about individual resurrection. It is about national restoration. Liberation. The defeat of oppression. Now imagine living under brutal Roman occupation. And then hearing about a man who has just… opened a grave. Do you see the connection? This would not just look like a miracle. It would look like Ezekiel's vision coming true. A sign that God is about to overturn the order of things. And hope—especially hope among the oppressed—is always dangerous. So when the authorities say, “If we let him go on like this… the Romans will come and destroy both our holy place and our nation,” they are not being irrational. They're being realistic. They're thinking of how to keep the crowds from “poking the bear” of the empire. Because if the crowds start mobilizing around Jesus as the one who will raise Israel from the dead—Rome will respond with violence. Better, they think, for one man to die than for the whole nation to be destroyed. (John 11:50) This is the political crisis. But there is another layer to this story. Another kind of burial.  New Testament scholar Elizabeth Schrader Polczer has spent years studying the earliest manuscripts of John's Gospel—especially this chapter. And what she noticed is that in many of the texts, there are signs of disturbance. In more than one of our oldest copies, there are edits—visible ones. Names changed. Words scratched out. Singular turned into plural. In particular, the name Mary appears to have been altered to Martha. And in some places, what was once a single woman becomes “the sisters.”  Schrader Polczer's careful reconstruction of the text from the most ancient copies suggests that Lazarus had one sister—Mary. One sister, not two. Now, that might sound like a technical detail. A scholarly footnote. But stay with me—because this matters. Schrader Polczer's claim is this: that the Mary in John 11 may actually be Mary Magdalene—and that her role was later divided by introducing Martha into the story. Not invented out of thin air, but imported—brought in, she suggests, from the Gospel of Luke, where a different Mary and her sister Martha (no mention of Lazarus) appear in a completely different story in a completely different place—Galilee in the north, not Bethany near Jerusalem in the south. In Luke 10, this Mary sits at Jesus' feet as a disciple while Martha is busy serving. It's a well-known scene. Early scribes would have known it well. And so, over time, it seems possible that this familiar pair—Mary and Martha—was inserted into John 11. And here's what that does: It takes one central woman, Mary Magdalene, sister of Lazarus, and turns her into two. It diffuses her presence. It redistributes her voice. Because if you read John 11 without Martha—if you imagine the earlier version of the text—Mary becomes the central figure. And not just any Mary. Mary Magdalene—Mary “the Tower”—a name that already suggests strength, presence, witness. And suddenly, connections begin to emerge.  Mary is the one at Lazarus's tomb in chapter 11. And in chapter 20, Mary Magdalene is the one at the tomb again. Mary weeps at the tombs of Lazarus and in the garden. Mary encounters the power of life over death. In both places. Mary anoints Jesus for his burial. (John 12) Mary stands at the cross. (John 19) Mary is the first witness to the resurrection. (John 20) Mary is the first sent to proclaim the good news. And if Mary not Martha is also the one who makes the great confession—then the implications are profound. Because in John 11:27, the one who says, “Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God,” is making one of the central declarations of the entire Gospel.  And if that confession originally belonged to Mary Magdalene then the first to confess who Jesus is and the first to witness his resurrection are the same person. A woman. A central apostolic voice. And here's where things get tense. Because that kind of authority—in the voice and witness of a woman—has not always been easy for the church to hold. // Polczer's argument is not uncontested. This is real scholarship—debated, tested, ongoing. And it's not about claiming certainty of intent. But it does suggest that the text may have been shaped in ways that had the effect of softening Mary Magdalene's prominence, shaping a story in a world not yet ready to center a woman's authority. Polczer calls it a “wound in the text.” Not something that destroys the Gospel, but something that reveals its vulnerability. And I want to be really clear here: This is not about discrediting scripture. It's about taking it seriously enough to study it closely, to notice what is happening, to ask why it matters. Because what's at stake is not just who was in the room in John 11. What is at stake is the theological issue of who gets to speak, who gets to lead, who gets to bear witness to the truth of who Jesus is. And when you place that alongside the fear we see in the authorities—the fear that Jesus is stirring up too much hope, too much possibility, too much disruption—you begin to see a pattern. Because just as the raising of Lazarus threatens political systems, the elevation of Mary threatens religious ones. But here is the good news. The Gospel of John tells us: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” Not will not. Did not. Which means that even if something was buried in the past, even if something was obscured, the light is still there, still shining, still waiting to be seen. So what does all of this mean for us right now in this Women's History Month. In a time when laws are being debated that could make it harder for women to fully participate in our democracy. In a time when some are still arguing that a woman's voice in the pulpit is somehow less faithful, less authoritative, less true. It means that we have seen this before. When voices that carry truth and possibility begin to disrupt the status quo, those voices are sometimes resisted outright. And sometimes, more subtly, they're… adjusted. Edited. Qualified. Split in two. Not erased completely—but reshaped into something easier to manage. This is not just about Mary. This is about all the ways God's truth has been buried. And the question is not simply, “Did this happen in the text?” The question is: Where is it happening now? Because the call of the Gospel is not just to notice the light, the call is to join it. The same Jesus who stood at Lazarus' tomb and called life out of death is still standing at the places where truth has been buried—and saying: “Come out.” “Unbind them.” “Let them go.” So this Women's History Month, hear this clearly: The work is not finished. But neither is the story. Because the light that shone in Mary Magdalene—a light that could be obscured but not extinguished—is still shining. And the darkness has not overcome it. So when you see something buried—a voice dismissed, a calling denied, a truth diminished—do not look away. Call it forth. Unbind it. Let it go. Because in the end, what God brings to life—a body, a truth, a voice—will not stay in the grave. Amen.   References https://nwlc.org/press-release/house-passes-save-act-2-0-to-suppress-millions-of-eligible-voters/ https://www.christiancentury.org/interviews/signs-mary-magdalene-john-11#:~:text=Polczer%20has%20also%20studied%20John%2011%2C%20where,Martha%20was%20not%20a%20sister%20of%20Lazarus. https://dianabutlerbass.substack.com/p/mary-in-john-11

Today I'm introducing you to a friend who has decided to make his life into a “joy lab.” His circumstances are anything but easy - tune in to see why - but he's learned how to thrive within them.Will Acuff is a disability dad, husband, author, and founder of a non-profit that helps underestimated entrepreneurs launch their own businesses. He has become an expert at building a life that can handle the hard stuff and today he's sharing his hard-won method with us. It starts with self-awareness and it ends with joy.What we mentioned:Corner to Corner - https://cornertocorner.org/No Elevator to Everest: Shift from Survive to Thrive through Spirit-Led Self-Awareness - https://a.co/d/04Tq0wFFHenry Nouwen - author and theologian“You've never met a mere mortal.” - C.S. LewisAmy Julia Becker's Take the Next Step Podcast - https://amyjuliabecker.com/take-the-next-step-podcast/Praxis - https://www.praxis.co/Goldman Sachs (female business training program) Scriptures we referenced:John 14Ephesians 3:20John 10:10Luke 15For more messages of hope, free resources, and opportunities to connect with me: https://hopeheals.com/Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeheals/⁠Subscribe to The GoodHard Story Podcast!Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-hard-story-podcast/id1496882479Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/0OYz6G9Q2tNNVOX9YSdmFb?si=043bd6b10a664bebWant a little hope in your inbox? ⁠⁠Sign up for the Hope Note⁠⁠, a monthly digest of only the good stuff, like reflections from me and a curated roundup of the Internet's most redemptive content: http://eepurl.com/gGUnlfGet to know us:⁠⁠Hope Heals⁠⁠: https://hopeheals.com/spaces⁠⁠Hope Heals Camp⁠⁠: https://hopeheals.com/camp⁠⁠Mend Coffee⁠⁠: https://www.mendcoffee.com/Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/hopeheals/

This sermon explores Jesus' declaration, “I am the light of the world” (John 8), spoken during the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles. During this festival, large lampstands in the temple reminded Israel of God's guiding presence in the wilderness. Against that backdrop, Jesus declares that He Himself is the true light, the returned presence of God among His people.Through the story of the woman caught in adultery, we see that Jesus exposes darkness not with condemnation but with compassion. Ultimately, the cross becomes the moment when the Light of the World moves into the deepest darkness to defeat sin and death. Because of this, believers are called to be WITH the Light, WALK in the Light through confession, and LIVE as the Light as God's agents in dark places.Main Points:*Jesus' presence exposes darkness with compassion, not condemnation*The safest place to be is in the Light, where sin is exposed and dealt with*As children of light, we are called to be WITH the light, WALK in the light, and LIVE as the lightScripture Referenced:John 8:2-16 (primary passage); John 3:16-21; Matthew 5:14-16; 1 John 1:5-9; Psalm 27:1; Ephesians 5:8; Luke 19:10; Acts 8-9 (Saul's conversion); Ezekiel 10-11 (God's glory leaving the temple); Exodus 40 (God's presence in the tabernacle)Community Group Guide:Begin with PrayerBegin by thanking God for bringing your group together and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and reveal how He wants to work through each person present. Pray for your community group to be a community that celebrates confession and walks in the light together.Discussion QuestionsRead John 8:2-16 together before discussing the following questions.1. What in this passage stands out to you? Does this text reveal anything to you about the character of God?2. Read John 3:16-21 together. According to verse 17, why did God send Jesus into the world? How does this passage shape our understanding of Jesus as light?3. Jason said, “The greatest thing that happened to her was that she was brought before Jesus and her darkness was exposed.” Why might that feel counterintuitive? When has exposing sin in your life actually led to freedom?4. Why do you think we often believe the lie that life is found in darkness rather than trusting that exposure and confession lead to freedom and healing?5. Read 1 John 1:5-9 together. What promises does this passage give us about confession? What happens when we walk in the light together?6. In what ‘dark places' has God positioned you as a light, whether at work, in your neighborhood, or among family members who don't know Christ?Personal Reflection and Practical ApplicationUse the following prompts as you go throughout this week:1. “Be WITH the Light” – set aside time to be with God in prayer, solitude, His word, through worship in song, or any other means that stir your affections for Him.2. “WALK in the Light” – Thank God for meeting you with compassion when you confess. Ask Him for courage to confess any areas where you've been walking in darkness. Then find a trusted friend and share any ways you may have chosen darkness instead of the light.(If you need further support as you pursue the freedom found in Christ, join us for Re:generation on Monday nights at 6:30 PM in the auditorium.)3. “LIVE as the Light” – pray daily for someone you know that does not know Christ. Ask God specifically: “Where would you have me shine Your light?” Be open to opportunities to share your faith as the Spirit leads. Pray for the specific “dark rooms” where God has placed each person in your Community Group to shine His light.Memorize John 8:12:“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'”Worship Setlist: Ancient Gates; This I Believe; Holy Forever; All Sufficient Merit; Build My Life

(Mark 3:16-19) The Gospel Of Mark - Appointing The Twelve Part 9 - Pastor Mark Ralston Legacy Standard Version Mark 3:13-19John 11:5-16John 14:1-6John 20:19-20John 20:24-29For more from Reformation Church please visit: www.reformationchurch.co.uk

One of the best known quotes about preaching has been attributed to theologian, Karl Barth. Preachers must preach with the Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other. What to do when the newspaper seems to get heavier and heavier with every passing day? As the U.S. seems to descend further and further into a lawless, violent police state, terrorizing and killing its own citizens, ripping apart its families, and wreaking genocidal and military havoc around the world. On this first Sunday of Epiphany, Pastor Megan notices some things from the story of the Magi in Matthew 2: noncooperation with ill-intentioned and violent kings; God is a refugee. And then notices a couple of things from the water to wine story of the wedding at Cana from John 2: Jesus resists taking action but comes to realize that his time has indeed come to act; Jesus needs the servants as his human companions and co-creators of the miracle the world needs. And she wonders how these Epiphany stories from our Bible might read our current newspapers…?Sermon begins at minute marker 2:20John 2.1-11Resources:BibleWorm podcast: Episode 721 - Water into Wine, Amy Robertson and Robert Williamson, Jr.Karl Barth (1886-1968), Swiss-German Christian theologian. “[Barth] is considered…to be one of the greatest thinkers within the history of the Christian tradition. Barth gave new impulses to Protestant theology during a critical phase, reshaping it fundamentally toward a systematic theology that had to cope with the grim realities of the 20th century. As the principal author of “The Barmen Declaration,” he was the intellectual leader of the German Confessing Church, the Protestant group that resisted the Third Reich.”Matthew 2: story of the Magi & the holy family's flight into EgyptEzekiel 37: story of the valley of dry bones, and God instructing Ezekiel to prophesy to the four winds and then to prophesy to the bonesPrayer: Jesus, amplify the good; disrupt the plans of the evil; show me my place; Amen.Image: [As preachers,] “we must hold the Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other.” Quote / sentiment famously attributed to theologian, Karl Barth.

Sunday Morning Service2/22/26Verses:Matthew 7:24 - 27John 14:6Matthew 12:30Galatians 2:20Matthew 28:16 - 20John 3:16Luke 23:31John 3:22 - 36

Apple Spotify Main Scripture - Colossians 1:28-29 Download the Group Guide Discipleship Is a Requirement for ChristiansColossians 1:28-29Hebrews 5:12-14Discipleship Requires ChangeColossians 1:28Ephesians 4:11-13Hebrews 10:24-25Discipleship Requires MultiplicationColossians 1:29Matthew 9:37Matthew 28:19-20John 15:8Application Points:Form Point A to Point B measures for your discipleshipAssess your maturity by ScriptureMake changes in your life for God's missionSet a goal to become a disciple-maker

Sunday Morning Service2/8/2026VersesJohn 1:1-14Galatians 2:20-21Romans 1:20John 8:31-32

Renue Healthcare https://Renue.Healthcare/ToddYour journey to a better life starts at Renue Healthcare. Visit https://Renue.Healthcare/Todd Bulwark Capital https://KnowYourRiskPodcast.comFind out how the future of AI could impact your retirement during Zach Abraham's free “New Year Reset” live webinar This Thursday January 29th 3:30pm Pacific. Register at KnowYourRiskPodcast.com.Alan's Soaps https://www.AlansArtisanSoaps.comUse coupon code TODD to save an additional 10% off the bundle price.Bonefrog https://BonefrogCoffee.com/ToddThe new GOLDEN AGE is here!  Use code TODD at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase and 15% on subscriptions.LISTEN and SUBSCRIBE at:The Todd Herman Show - Podcast - Apple PodcastsThe Todd Herman Show | Podcast on SpotifyWATCH and SUBSCRIBE at: Todd Herman - The Todd Herman Show - YouTubeMedia Makes White Women Rage Addicts // The Virtuous Repression of Women // Tier List: The Dumbest Jesus MemesEpisode links: BREAKING: New video appears to show activist Alex Pretti interfering with ICE on Jan 13, spitting at them and attacking their vehicles. The BBC ran White liberal woman influencer with 544,000 followers says liberal woman have been waiting for any reason to fight. She literally starts to shake with enjoyment talking about finally being able to get out and fightThe Tale of Two Contagions: In 2019, German psychiatrists observed a sudden surge of adolescent girls presenting to clinics with abrupt-onset Tourette-like tics. This immediately raised alarm bells. Tourette's typically affects boys and begins in early childhood. Singer Lauren Jauregui is having a COMPLETE MELTDOWN over ICE, crashing out on Republicans while claiming it's NOT a crime to illegally invade the country. She also claims that ICE agents are "rapists and murderers" and calls on people to protest and "disobey." Imagine supporting her…The Tale of Two Contagions: In 2019, German psychiatrists observed a sudden surge of adolescent girls presenting to clinics with abrupt-onset Tourette-like tics. This immediately raised alarm bells. Tourette's typically affects boys and begins in early childhood. BREAKING: Elliot Forhan, Democrat Candidate for Ohio Attorney General, says he's going to kiII President Trump through capital punishmentMuslim women with just a slit big enough to see out of in her face covering tells Americans what America should be. “ICE should get out of Minnesota — That is not how America should be. And right now, America is not America” - Our politicians did this. They imported these peopleDemocrats are in on it. They're on the ground hugging ICE riot leaders. Minneapolis man comfortably speaks to Democrat Senator Ro Khanna saying the violence will continue to escalate. “If they bring their asses here f*cking with us, it's gonna get worse” saying to deliver this message to Capitol HillSomeone has decided to fix one of these signs that have been popping up all across the country.Is Mary the Mother of God?Don Lemon compares anti-ICE lunatics storming a church service to Jesus turning over the tables in the temple.What Does God's Word Say?Matthew 5:17-20John 19:7-12Matthew 6:3-4Matthew 22:15-22Genesis 1:1-4John 10:30-38

What does it really mean to have a radical focus on Jesus? Many of us believe the right things and stay connected to church, yet our lives can feel blurry and unfocused. In this message, Pastor AK Kuruvilla explores why focusing on Jesus is foundational to a well-lived life and how loving Him is always expressed through obedience. By looking at the Great Commandment and the Great Commission, we are reminded that following Jesus is not about extremes but about exclusive allegiance. • A radical focus on Jesus is the root of how we live, love, and follow Him• Loving Jesus is evidenced by obedience, even when it's difficult• Discipleship happens in the gap between knowing truth and living it outKey Scriptures:Matthew 22:36–40Matthew 28:18–20John 14:15–23Colossians 2:6–7Psalm 16:1–11Ask yourself where your focus may have drifted and what obedience to Jesus looks like in this season of life. Commit to growing alongside others by stepping into biblical community, and share this message with someone who desires a life centered on Christ.Bayou City Fellowship Spring Branch Campus | AK Kuruvilla | January 18, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

It's easy to lose direction when we don't know where we're headed. In this message, we're reminded that just like a road trip, following Jesus requires clarity, vision, and focus. From the beginning, God has made the purpose of the church clear: to know Him and to make Him known. Walking through Matthew 22 and several other key passages, this sermon unpacks what it truly means to be radically focused on Jesus. • Knowing Jesus is the foundation of real life and lasting joy• Becoming like Jesus is the goal God is shaping us toward• Trusting and obeying Jesus leads us to greater life and growthKey Scriptures:John 17:3Matthew 22:35–40Matthew 28:18–20John 6:68–691 John 2:3–6John 15:4–11As you reflect on this message, ask yourself where your focus has drifted and what it would look like to intentionally grow in your love for Jesus. Take a step toward community, join a group, and invite others to walk this journey with you. Share this message with friends or family who are searching for direction and purpose.Bayou City Fellowship Cypress Campus | Jeremiah Meadows | January 11, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

2026-01-04 The Godhead - What Is It?by Steve HudsonScripture Reference(s):Acts 17:29 “Therefore since we are God's offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill.Acts 2:32 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it.Colossians 1:13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves,Colossians 1:16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.Colossians 2:9 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form,Deuteronomy 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.Genesis 1:2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.Genesis 1:26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”Hebrews 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.Isaiah 6:3 And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.”Isaiah 6:8 hen I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”John 14:16-17 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.John 14:23 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.John 2:18-19 The Jews then responded to him, “What sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?” 19 Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.”1 John 3:20 If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.Psalm 139:7-8 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.Psalm 27:8 My heart says of you, “Seek his face!” Your face, Lord, I will seek.Psalm 34:15-16 The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are attentive to their cry; 16 but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil, to blot out their name from the earth.Romans 1:4  and who through the Spirit of holiness was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord.Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!All are welcome. 217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448Office Phone: (985) 626-3114Sunday Service: 9:30AMAdult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AMNursery and Children's church available.

Welcome Graham fam! We are so glad you could watch Sunday morning online with us. Sermon Title:Possession – 1 – Created to be Possessed We are vessels—fragile clay jars, temples of the Holy Spirit. God designed us to be constantly filled, yet nothing in this world truly satisfies. We eat, drink, learn, seek entertainment, chase purpose, and crave gratification—but the hunger remains. Why? Because we were created to be possessed. That word might sound unsettling because we often associate it with demonic possession, but in reality, God intended for us to be possessed by Him. ScriptureEphesians 3:16-191 Peter 2:91 Corinthians 6:19-20John 4:10, 13-14Ephesians 5:15-18 – Be filled with the Spirit Sermon Points1. God wants to possess you2. There is a black hole in us3. Only God can fill it4. We will be possessed by something5. The solution: Be filled with the SpiritClosingPossession is real. Satan works subtly, often through anonymity, waiting for an opening. Don't make yourself available to the enemy. You have nothing to fear when you are possessed by God. But when God is rejected, the void is left for the enemy to fill. Choose to be filled with the Holy Spirit—because you were created to be possessed. Watch past services: https://www.gcwesleyan.org/teaching/ Subscribe to Graham Chapel Youth: https://is.gd/grahamyouth Give to Graham Chapel: https://www.gcwesleyan.org/give/ Graham Chapel Wesleyan Church is in Mayo, SC near Cowpens and Chesnee in Spartanburg County. We'd love to have you join us in person on Sundays or Wednesdays for youth! Visit our website to learn more.

Apple Spotify Main Scripture - 1 John 2:1-6Without Doctrine, You Cannot Know God1 John 2:1-2Acts 2:42Luke 24:27Without Mission, You Cannot Obey God1 John 2:3-5Romans 10:14-15Matthew 28:19-20John 10:16Luke 19:10Mission Applies Doctrine to Real Life1 John 2:61 Peter 3:151 Corinthians 9:19-21Application Points:Learn deep doctrine in order to know GodLive to make God known through your lifeApply doctrine to a life of missionFollow Jesus and see what God will do

Pursuing Your Purpose in 2026Pastor Kacy Benson | Bannockburn ChurchIn this message, Pastor Kacy Benson challenges us to begin the new year with clarity, intention, and spiritual focus by pursuing our God-given purpose. Rather than drifting into another year on autopilot, this sermon invites us to magnify God in every area of life—worship, relationship, service, mission, and eternity.Rooted in Scripture, this teaching reminds us that our lives are meant to point beyond ourselves. When we worship God fully, walk with Him daily, serve faithfully, and live with eternity in view, our lives begin to magnify what matters most.This message explores how we magnify God through:• Worshiping God with our whole lives, not just our words• Building a daily relationship with Him, not occasional visits• Serving others with the gifts God has entrusted to us• Representing Christ faithfully in everyday life• Living with an eternal perspective that shapes our prioritiesAs we look toward 2026, this sermon calls us to a deeper commitment—one that aligns our purpose with God's glory.Key Scriptures:Mark 12:29–30Psalm 34:3Ephesians 2:10Joshua 24:151 Peter 4:102 Corinthians 5:20John 14:1–3If you're seeking direction, renewal, or a fresh sense of purpose for the year ahead, this message offers a clear and biblical vision for living a life that magnifies God.Need prayer? Visit bannockburnchurch.com/prayer

Reading by David Griffin ---   2, 3 John   https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20John%201%3B%203%20John%201&version=ESV&interface=print

Reading by Karen Griffin ---  1 John   https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%201-5&version=ESV&interface=print

As Christmas approaches and the days grow full and emotional, Lori invites single and widowed moms to look at a tender part of the Christmas story—the shepherds. These quiet, ordinary men were the first to hear the news that Jesus, the Savior, had come. Their story offers comfort for mothers raising children without an earthly dad, reminding us that God is our faithful Shepherd who watches, protects, provides, and gently leads those who have young.In this episode, Lori shares from Scripture, from her 26 years of widowhood, and from her heart as a mom who raised eight fatherless children. She highlights the shepherds' role in the Christmas story and offers six practical ways God shepherds single and widowed mothers today.Key Takeaways:1. The shepherds reveal God's heart for the overlooked and overwhelmed. He sees single and widowed moms who feel unnoticed and promises to be their Shepherd, watching over their families.2. God gently leads mothers who have young. He guides you one step at a time, equips you with wisdom, and holds you when you feel weak.3. Six comforting ways God shepherds moms raising children with an absent dad.4. Encouragement for mothers in fresh grief who are facing Christmas with tears and questions.Scriptures Mentioned:Isaiah 30:15, 40:11Psalm 68:5Proverbs 27:23Luke 2:8–20John 10:11Hebrews 13:20–21Connect with Lori and Perspective MinistriesWebsite: perspectiveministries.orgEmail: lori@perspectiveministries.orgSubscribe to YouTube and your favorite podcast platformShare this episode with another mom who needs to know she is not alone this Christmas

Show #2558 Show Notes: ‘Discrimination’: https://webstersdictionary1828.com/Dictionary/discrimination Randy Newman – Short People: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbOLQdCWtag&list=RDnbOLQdCWtag&start_radio=1 Communion Verses: John 6:32-40 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=%20John%206%3A32-40&version=KJV Matthew 26:26-29 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2026%3A26-29&version=KJV Tina Peters pardoned: https://thepostmillennial.com/breaking-trump-grants-full-pardon-to-political-prisoner-tina-peters JP Morgan sells Silver short position: https://silvertrade.com/news/precious-metals/silver-news/jp-morgan-sells-entire-200-m-oz-silver-short-position-flips-long-750-m-oz/ Silver prices: https://www.kitco.com/ Dem Representative from […]

During the Christmas season, joy can feel like something we *should* have, even while we struggle to stay afloat with everyday life plus the responsibilities of making magical memories for our children. But what if joy were so much more than a feeling—were instead an assurance of something weighty and eternal that can never be taken away? I wrote The Joyfulness Challenge to explore these exact themes, and we're chatting about both the particulars of the challenge and practical, daily ways we can choose joy, even when our circumstances don't seem like they warrant it on the show today.May this episode and this challenge be a blessing to you this Christmas season and beyond.Mentions:⁠The Joyfulness Challenge ⁠The Gentleness Challenge⁠Sponsor Info:⁠⁠⁠Voetberg Music Academy⁠⁠⁠Voetberg Music Academy provides online, at home, shareable lessons so that your kids can pursue their musical passions without stress or hassle.Use Code: MISFORMAMA20 For 20% Off Of Each Month That You're Enrolled!⁠King's Ridge Elderberries⁠⁠King's Ridge, works hard to grow and harvest high quality fresh frozen elderberries and elderberry products from their family to yours. When you buy from the King's Ridge you are supporting small American business and sustainable agriculture.Use Code: MAMA10 For 10% Off Of Your OrderBible References:2 Corinthians 12:9Matthew 22:36-402 Corinthians 5:17Psalm 27:13Philippians 42 Timothy 3:16Philippians 1:21Hebrews 12:1-2Psalm 110:11 Corinthians 15:54-57Hebrews 11:1Revelation 21:4Matthew 28:20John 16:332 Peter 2:8Luke 1:46-551 Corinthians 10:311 Thessalonians 5:16Psalm 30Links:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Gentleness Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Penny Reward System⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paint & Prose⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠M Is for Mama⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Penny Reward System⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Are you resisting the enemy or unknowingly giving him influence in your life? In this final message from our Unholy Spirits series, Lead Pastor Aaron Pennington teaches from Matthew 12 and exposes one of Jesus' strongest warnings about spiritual warfare: it is not enough to “clean up your life” if your life is not filled with God.Pastor Aaron shows how deception remains the enemy's primary weapon and how he lures people away from God at a pace that does not alarm them. He reveals the modern doors many believers are opening without realizing it, including the dangers connected to smartphones, social media, and the new era of artificial intelligence. This message challenges us to pay attention, remove anything that invites spiritual influence, and anchor ourselves in the truth of God's Word.This teaching will equip you to recognize deception, identify open doors, guard your mind, and stand firm in the authority Jesus has given you. Learn what Jesus meant by resisting the devil, why truth is your greatest weapon, and how to step into the future with wisdom, discernment, and confidence in the Holy Spirit.

From the beginning of time, a war has raged over humanity—one that seeks to distort, defile, and ultimately sever our connection to God. The Fallen Sons of God abandoned their divine purpose, descending to earth and corrupting its people through deception and genetic manipulation. Their offspring, the Nephilim, were more than just giants of old; they embodied an agenda to erase the image of God from humanity. Though their physical presence faded, their influence remains—woven into the fabric of our world through mind control and ideological deception. But darkness does not have the final say. In this episode of the Revelations Podcast, host Reagan Kramer welcomes back Dr. Laura Sanger, a researcher, author, speaker, and clinical psychologist with a deep passion for awakening people to the spiritual battle at hand. Together, they dive into the spiritual war between the sons of God and the forces of darkness, tracing its origins from biblical times to its modern-day manifestations. They discuss the erosion of biblical truth, the dangers of gender ideology, transhumanism, and the corrupt systems that seek to enslave future generations. Whether you're new to these concepts or looking to equip yourself for the days ahead, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to step into your identity as a son or daughter of God.Here are three reasons why you should listen to this episode:Learn the hidden truths behind the Nephilim agenda and how it impacts our world todayGain practical insights on how to rise up as a son or daughter of God, equipped with spiritual authority to combat these dark forces.Reflect on the urgency of spiritual maturity and the call to live a victorious life aligned with God's truth in perilous times.Become Part of Our Mission! Support The Revelations Podcast:Your support fuels our mission to share transformative messages of hope and faith. Click here to learn how you can contribute and be part of this growing community!ResourcesMore from the Revelations Podcast hosted by Reagan Kramer: Website | Instagram | Apple Podcast | YoutubeListen to our previous episode with Dr. Laura Sanger, “Fighting the Nephilim Agenda with our Authority in Christ”"The Roots of the Federal Reserve" by Dr. Laura Sanger"Generation Hoodwinked" by Dr. Laura Sanger"From Transgender to Transhuman" — by Martin Rothblatt"Future Humans" — Children's BookLaura Sanger: Website | Instagram | Youtube | RumbleLaura's Telegram: @laurasanger444hzBible VersesEcclesiastes 10:20Mark 41 Corinthians 14:20John 14:10John 7:16-18John 12:49-50 Galatians 4:1,7Romans 8:14Ephesians 5:112 Timothy 4:3-4This Episode is brought to you by Advanced Medicine AlternativesGet back to the active life you love through natural & regenerative musculoskeletal healing: https://www.georgekramermd.com/Episode Highlights[0:50] Introduction and Background of Dr. Laura SangerReagan Kramer welcomes back Dr. Laura Sanger to The Revelations Podcast to shed light on the hidden spiritual war shaping our world today.With a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and a Master of Arts in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, her work bridges biblical revelation and scholarly research. Her books, The Roots of the Federal Reserve and Generation Hoodwinked uncover deep-seated deceptions designed to enslave humanity.A recent gathering at Blurry Con provided an opportunity to reconnect with like-minded individuals and reaffirm the urgency of exposing these dark forces.[5:28] Dr. Laura's Vision and MissionA dream and vision she had in May 2020 led to the title Generation Hoodwinked, revealing a world where AI and spiritual oppression silence the voices of future generations.In the vision, Jesus led Dr. Sanger into an underground cavern where children were trapped in cages, symbolizing the control systems designed to enslave them.The Nephilim agenda thrives on deception, and exposing it is essential to breaking its power.Ephesians 5:11 and 2 Timothy 4:3-4 serve as guiding scriptures in this mission, urging believers to stand against false doctrines and wake up to the battle at hand.[11:43] The Battle of the Sons of GodLong ago, the Fallen Sons of God abandoned their heavenly domain, descending to corrupt humanity and unleash the Nephilim agenda.Their goal was to defile the human genome and stage an insurrection against God's divine order.Though Jesus secured victory through His death and resurrection, the war still rages in the spiritual realm.The need for God-fearing believers to rise up has never been greater, as deception seeks to strip humanity of its divine identity.Spiritual warfare is not passive—strongholds must be torn down, and the authority of Christ must be wielded with boldness.[15:38] Defining the Sons of GodNot all believers walk in the full authority of the Sons of God.Romans 8:14 states that those led by the Spirit are the true sons, yet many remain trapped in self-reliance rather than surrendering to divine direction.Cultural norms encourage independence, but spiritual maturity requires complete dependence on Jesus.Obedience to the Holy Spirit is the mark of a true Son of God, distinguishing those who move in divine authority from those merely going through the motions of faith.[20:28] Laura: “Sons of God are not their own person. They don't make their own decisions. They are fully surrendered to the Father's will.”The invitation to step into sonship is available to all—but it requires a willingness to follow God without hesitation.[27:13] Mixture and SyncretismThe mixing of truth with deception opens doors to bondage, preventing believers from being led by the soul rather than the Spirit.Operating from the soul—through emotions and human reasoning—rather than the Spirit leads to misguided intentions, no matter how well-meaning.Syncretism, the blending of Christian faith with pagan influences, is rampant in modern culture, from Halloween celebrations to the normalization of ideologies that distort God's design.Spiritual purity demands discernment, and the removal of compromise is essential to living victoriously in Christ.[30:12] Laura: “The Fallen sons of God, they mix their seed with human seed to birth the Nephilim. And so giving room to mixture, what that does is that allows us to take the bait that causes many of us to become hoodwinked”[36:28] The Nephilim Agenda and TransgenderismA systematic effort to erase human identity is at play, progressing from transgender ideology to full-scale transhumanism.Dr. Laura describes how this movement is being fueled by the United Nations and comprehensive sexuality education (CSE).She highlights the harmful effects of CSE on children, including promoting sexual stimulation and normalizing bestiality.The long-term effects of puberty blockers and gender-affirming surgeries on children's development and mental health are not acts of liberation but of enslavement[48:04] The Impact of Media and TechnologyMedia and technology are not just entertainment but tools of indoctrination.Future Humans for example, a bestselling children's book, subtly introduces transhumanist ideals by showcasing technological modifications.Movies, music, and television shows create fantasies that reinforce the allure of enhanced abilities, steering the next generation toward a post-human reality.The Nephilim agenda thrives on deception; its end goal is to wipe out humanity and cut at the heart of the Kingdom of God.[50:50] Laura: “The Nephilim agenda is really about defiling the human genome so much that we can't have relationship with Jesus anymore”[52:48] The Role of the Sons of God in Spiritual WarfareThe Sons of God are warriors, called to push back the forces of darkness with unwavering faith.The Hebrew phrase Rak Chazak Amats embodies the strength and courage required to stand in battle.Dr. Laura highlights the importance of the Sons of God in arising and maturing to become heirs of God and walking in their inheritance.As deception intensifies, Dr Laura encourages listeners to find Jesus in the secret place to develop an intimate relationship and learn His voice.[1:05:54] Practical Steps to Become a Son or Daughter of GodVictory begins in the secret place, where intimacy with Jesus is cultivated.Dr Laura emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the true Holy Spirit and false voices in the church and media.Recognizing this requires deep connection with the True Shepherd, and daily communion with Him to ensure that fear and deception lose their grip.As the episode closes, Dr. Laura prays for listeners, asking for protection, boldness, and the empowerment to walk as Sons of God in a world desperately in need of truth.About Laura SangerDr. Laura Sanger is a researcher, author, speaker, and clinical psychologist dedicated to equipping believers with the knowledge and spiritual tools needed to navigate the unseen battle against darkness. As the founder of No Longer Enslaved, her mission is to awaken people to the pervasive influence of the Nephilim agenda and empower them to walk in their God-given authority.With a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and a Master of Arts in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, Dr. Laura Sanger combines scholarly research with biblical revelation to expose the hidden forces shaping our world. As the author of books such as Generation Hoodwinked: The Impact of the Nephilim Agenda Today, she unravels the deep-seated deception embedded in financial systems, transhumanism, and ideological warfare. Dr. Sanger has shared her insights on platforms across the globe, equipping believers to discern false narratives, break free from spiritual bondage, and step into their true identity in Christ. Her teachings emphasize the importance of spiritual maturity, exposing darkness, and wielding the weapons of our warfare with boldness.Connect with Dr. Laura Sanger and learn more about her conferences and resources at No Longer Enslaved.Enjoyed this Episode?If you did, subscribe and share it with your friends!Post a review and share it! If you found our deep dive into the spiritual influences on mental health insightful, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Leave a review and share this episode with friends and family. Step into your God-given authority and awaken as a Son of God. Expose deception, break free from spiritual bondage, and walk boldly in the truth of Christ.Have any questions? You can connect with me on Instagram. 

This week, we FINALLY cover The Bell Witch of Adams Tennessee! People have been asking for years and we finally got the episode in our catalogue! What are your thoughts on the Bell Witch?  Sponsors Fum – TryFum.com Master Class – MasterClass.com/GRAVEYARD  Cowboy Revolution Apparel  https://cowboyrevolution.com/?ref=adamgyt Code ADAMGYT Check out our sources below for more info and to continue learning! Please Rate & Review us wherever you get your Podcasts!  Mail us something:  GYT Podcast PO Box 542762 Grand Prairie, TX 75054 Leave us a Voicemail or shoot us a text! 430-558-1304 Our Website WWW.GraveYardPodcast.com Patreon https://www.patreon.com/GraveYardTales Youtube: Youtube.com/c/GraveYardTales Rumble – GraveYard Tales Podcast Do you want GraveYard Merch?!?! Go to https://graveyardtales.dashery.com/ to get you some!  Thank You Darron for our Logo!! You can get in touch with Darron for artwork by searching Darron DuBose on Facebook or Emailing him at art_injector@yahoo.com Thank you to Brandon Adams for our music tracks!! If you want to hear more from Brandon check him out at: Soundcloud.com/brandonadamsj Youtube.com/brandonadams93 Or to get in touch with him for compositions email him at Brandon_adams@earthlink.net  Our Contacts WWW.GraveYardPodcast.com Email us at: GraveYardTalesPodcast@gmail.com Find us on social media: X(Twitter): @GrveYrdPodcast Facebook: @GraveYardTalesPodcast Instagram: @GraveYardTalesPodcast Sources “An Authenticated History of the Bell Witch” by M.V. Ingram (1894) https://www.bellwitchcave.com/bell-witch-legend/ https://www.reddit.com/r/Ghosts/comments/18fy1f2/a_closer_look_at_the_bell_witch_of_adams/ https://usghostadventures.com/haunted-stories/the-bell-family-farm/ http://www.bellwitch.org/adams.htm https://tennesseeencyclopedia.net/entries/robertson-county/ https://www.tngenweb.org/goodspeed/robertson/history.html https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/local/robertson/2021/10/28/history-tennessee-bell-witch-could-science-explain-paranormal/8568160002/?gnt-cfr=1&gca-cat=p&gca-uir=false&gca-epti=z115647u003447e002500v115647&gca-ft=194&gca-ds=sophi&sltsgmt=0154_A https://customshousemuseum.org/news/the-bell-witch-the-scariest-ghost-story-in-tennessee/ https://www.apsu.edu/news/october-2021-bell-witch-1029.php https://drivingbackroads.com/2019/12/28/adams-tennessee-and-the-bell-witch/ https://genteelandbard.com/southern-history-haunts-folklore-journal/2022/7/28/the-strange-legend-of-the-bell-witch http://www.bellwitch.org/bell_witch_pictures.htm https://www.reddit.com/r/Ghosts/comments/1ke88nb/the_legend_of_the_bell_witch_true_accounts_of_the/ https://patfitzhugh.wordpress.com/2018/11/16/the-bell-log-cabin-in-adams-tennessee/ https://www.agdaily.com/features/haunted-farms-spirits-of-the-bell-witch-cave-farm/ https://nanahood.com/the-history-of-the-bell-family-dinner-bell https://www.fabledcollective.com/the-bell-witch-the-southern-haunting-that-terrified-a-president/#google_vignette https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/who-was-the-bell-witch https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bell_Witch https://tnmuseum.org/junior-curators/posts/tennessee-legends-the-bell-witch https://allthatsinteresting.com/bell-witch#:~:text=She%20even%20reportedly%20made%20predictions,have%20emerged%20over%20the%20centuries. https://genteelandbard.com/southern-history-haunts-folklore-journal/2022/7/28/the-strange-legend-of-the-bell-witch#:~:text=The%20supernatural%20activity%20all%20but,Witch%20for%20all%20to%20ponder. https://www.thevintagenews.com/2022/04/12/terrifying-legend-bell-witch/#:~:text=The%20witch%20leaves%E2%80%A6%20and%20then%20returns&text=In%201821%2C%20Kate%20Batts%20allegedly,as%20the%20Bell%20Witch%20Cave. http://www.bellwitch.org/bell_witch_essay_ncversion.htm#:~:text=The%20first%20story%20involves%20John,smokehouse%20and%20let%20her%20die. https://sharetngov.tnsosfiles.com/tsla/exhibits/myth/bellwitch.htm https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bell_Witch_Cave

Show #2519 Show Notes: Silver Structural Breakout: https://www.zerohedge.com/news/2025-10-16/msas-eye-popping-silver-observation Communion Verses: 1 John 1:1-10: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John%201%3A1-10&version=KJV Matthew 26:26-29 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2026%3A26-29&version=KJV Nancy Pelosi on new Jan 6 committee: https://x.com/ChiefSund/status/1978577674588098635 Trump “I may not be heaven bound”: https://www.christianpost.com/news/trump-sparks-concern-from-christians-for-saying-not-heaven-bound.html Trump on […]

Tap here to send us a message!In the conclusion of the book of James, we are shown that the purpose of the entire writing was that the church would fulfill its mission to reach the lost. All other correction, instruction, and encouragement is designed to ultimately lead to the salvation of as many as will hear and obey. As the church, we must see as God sees from above and help to pull others out of the world from which we have been saved. 09/14/2025 - Sunday Afternoon Scriptures:James 5:17-20Acts 10:25-26Acts 14:14-15, 22I Kings 19:4James 5:18-20Galatians 5:15Psalm 32:1-2, 5I Peter 4:8Psalm 85:1-2Proverbs 17:9James 5:20John 9:4Psalm 69:1-3Jude 22

Richard Klaus | August 24th, 2025Romans 13:1-71 Timothy 2:1-4Isaiah 5:20John 19:10-11Stay Connected:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pellacommuni...Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pellacommun...Website: http://pellacommunities.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@pellacommunities

Show #2479 Show Notes: Communion verses: John 10:9-18 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=%20John%2010%3A9-18&version=KJV Matthew 26:26-29 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2026%3A26-29&version=KJV Proverbs 22: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%2022&version=KJV Dr Dobson Legacy Ruined: https://coachdavelive.com/wp-content/uploads/Dobson-Legacy-Ruined.pdf Allen Jackson: https://www.facebook.com/reel/2243414239445606 Luke 22:8-38 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2021%3A8-38&version=KJV Genesis 6: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=gen%206&version=KJV Nephilim: https://www.google.com/search?q=nephilim Nephilim on the Shawn Ryan Show: https://x.com/ShawnRyan762/status/1958665419713139135 Fritz Zimmerman: https://www.facebook.com/FritzZimmerman Mudfossil University: https://www.youtube.com/@mudfossiluniversity LA Marzulli: https://lamarzulli.net/

0:00–14:25The sections on “woman” are not distinct from the rest of the book; §68 “Will and Willingness” §64 “Skeptics” superficiality of existence ; the feminine operation and the body marked by the feminine operation.14:30–36:20John's writing project ; maybe these aphorisms are more interesting now? §74 “The Unsuccessful” and §75 “The Third Sex” ; Kaufman can't handle it anymore ;  §80 “Art and Nature” the fantasy of good speech and the self-controlled cogito ; are we talking about Platonic ideals when we talk about woman as a “ship at a distance”? ; the prospect of metaphysics ; coordinating these aphorisms “on woman” with the rest of the book ; §59 “We Artists,” woman, god, and property.36:20–60:00The multiplicity of misogyny ; Nietzsche is a strange pathway by which to engage feminism;  Beyond surfaces and depths (or between them); why gender is impossible to think and why that's important; politics vs. metaphysics; deconstructive feminism; the political conditions for thinking; the #FigureItOut movement; exceptions and institutions; honoring Sinèad. 

Main Scripture - Matthew 28:18-20The Mission of God Is Experienced in DiscipleshipMatthew 28:18-20Genesis 12:3Genesis 15:5-6Exodus 40:34John 1:14Luke 24:45-471 Corinthians 3:16-17Disciples Make DisciplesMatthew 28:19Matthew 4:191 John 2:12-14John 7:38John 20:21Ephesians 2:19-22The Church Is the Base for Making DisciplesMatthew 28:20John 13:35Ephesians 2:19-22Application Points:Seek to experience God's presenceUnderstand the Christian life through discipleshipPursue real spiritual growth through multiplyingBuild the Church by making disciples

In this episode we take a look at Nicodemus and what we can learn from him about whether or not we are open to the Lord correcting wrong beliefs we have.Other episodes referenced in this one:Episode 24: The GospelEpisode 116: How to learn for yourself what God is really like (What is God like? part 12)Scriptures referenced:John 3:1-10Matthew 23:1-7Matthew 15:7-9Matthew 23:25-28John 5:39-40John 7:32, 45-52Micah 5:2John 19:38-42James 4:6Matthew 23:12Matthew 4:4Matthew 5:17-20John 10:35Feel free to email the podcast at ijustwanttotalkabout@gmail.com, and we will respond as soon as we are able!I WANT TO BE DISCIPLEDI am on staff with another ministry called Mentoring Men for the Master (M3). M3 is a discipleship ministry; so, if you are interested in being discipled and having someone come alongside you to invest in you and your walk with Jesus, or if you would like to do this in someone else's life, feel free to email us at info@mentoringmen.net. You can also check out M3's website by clicking "I want to be discipled". Also note that despite the ministry's name, M3 disciples both men and women; so, the offer is open to all!I WANT TO SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTERIf you would like to sign up to receive newsletter updates, simply click "I want to sign up for the newsletter" and fill out the form. Also, feel free to check out our most recent newsletter.I WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCASTIf you feel so led, you can support the podcast by clicking "I want to support the podcast". I Just Want to Talk about the Bible is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means that any donations made are tax-deductible. Thank you so much for giving as the Lord leads!...

As a listener of TOE you can get a special 20% off discount to The Economist and all it has to offer! Visit https://www.economist.com/toe Physicist and philosopher Jenann Ismael joins to unveil a radical idea: free will isn't an illusion, it's a physical reality grounded in thermodynamics and relativity. In this conversation, Jenann explains why no system, not even a perfect computer, can predict its own future, and how this inherent unpredictability opens the door to real agency. We explore the paradox of identity, the limits of determinism, the role of memory in selfhood, and why your choices truly come from you. This is the clearest, most rigorous defense of free will in the age of physics. Join My New Substack (Personal Writings): https://curtjaimungal.substack.com Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gL14b92xAErofYQA7bU4e Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 01:42 Free Will 29:16 The Limits of Predictability 41:45 Defining Free Will 59:42 Life and Cognition in the Universe 1:05:30 The Choices We Make 1:08:01 Dark Nights of the Soul 1:09:35 Philosophical Responses to Free Will 1:11:03 Personal Reflections on Life 1:11:54 The Weight of Loss 1:13:40 Patterns of Persistence 1:17:17 Understanding the Self 1:18:41 The Continuity of Existence 1:20:17 The Nature of Mortality 1:22:27 Time and Its Mysteries 1:51:42 The Nature of Existence 2:04:23 The Paradox of Newcomb's Dilemma 2:08:38 Lessons Learned from Suffering Links Mentioned: •⁠ ⁠How Physics Makes Us Free [Book]: https://amzn.to/44CcHr8 •⁠ ⁠Why Physics Should Care About The Mind [Paper]: https://www.jenanni.com/wp-content/uploads/Why-physics-should-care-about-the-mind-and-how-to-think-about-it-without-worrying-about-the-mind-body-problem.pdf •⁠ ⁠Diana Pasulka [TOE]: https://youtu.be/E5MuTHUbMUs •⁠ ⁠Leonard Susskind [TOE]: https://youtu.be/2p_Hlm6aCok •⁠ ⁠Sean Carroll [TOE]: https://youtu.be/9AoRxtYZrZo •⁠ ⁠Matt Segall [TOE]: https://youtu.be/DeTm4fSXpbM •⁠ ⁠Tim Maudlin [TOE]: https://youtu.be/fU1bs5o3nss •⁠ ⁠David Lewis's Metaphysics: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/lewis-metaphysics/#Bib •⁠ ⁠Robert Sapolsky [TOE]: https://youtu.be/z0IqA1hYKY8 •⁠ ⁠David Lewis's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B000APAW62 •⁠ ⁠Stephen Wolfram [TOE]: https://youtu.be/0YRlQQw0d-4 •⁠ ⁠Roy Baumeister [TOE]: https://youtu.be/aXoK-C2c2AQ •⁠ ⁠Free Will Ontoprism [TOE]: https://youtu.be/SSbUCEleJhg •⁠ ⁠Michael Levin [TOE]: https://youtu.be/c8iFtaltX-s •⁠ ⁠Dark Night Of The Soul: https://basilica.ca/documents/2016/10/St.%20John%20of%20the%20Cross-Dark%20night%20of%20the%20soul.pdf •⁠ ⁠George Musser [TOE]: https://youtu.be/KVy3NeXpMaI •⁠ ⁠Tim Maudlin & Tim Palmer [TOE]: https://youtu.be/883R3JlZHXE SUPPORT: - Become a YouTube Member (Early Access Videos): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdWIQh9DGG6uhJk8eyIFl1w/join - Support me on Patreon: https://patreon.com/curtjaimungal - Support me on Crypto: https://commerce.coinbase.com/checkout/de803625-87d3-4300-ab6d-85d4258834a9 - Support me on PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=XUBHNMFXUX5S4 SOCIALS: - Twitter: https://twitter.com/TOEwithCurt - Discord Invite: https://discord.com/invite/kBcnfNVwqs #science Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're diving back with part 2 of our 100 Things for Moms episode in honor of 100 WHOLE episodes of M Is for Mama (can't believe it!).In this one, we tackle top 10 snacks, dinners, habits I find helpful, and much more, My goal with these episodes is to show you how many ways there are to do motherhood well, not to tell you, you should only do it like I do. I hope you'll be encouraged to look for ways that work well for you and your family. Sponsor Info:Voetberg Music AcademyCheck Out Voetberg Music Academy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Code: misformama20Mentions:Therapy EpisodeBible References:1 Corinthians 10:23-33Philippians 2:14-16Galatians 2:20John 3:30 Links:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Gentleness Challenge⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Penny Reward System⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paint & Prose⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠M Is for Mama⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Penny Reward System⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠