Podcasts about abiding

Elder Bob Shim shared from John 15:9-11 (ESV) on the theme of Advent joy, and how true joy blossoms in the soil of surrender, gratitude, and divine love. 

Elder Bob Shim shared from John 15:9-11 (ESV) on the theme of Advent joy, and how true joy blossoms in the soil of surrender, gratitude, and divine love. 

During this Advent season, we've paused our study of the Gospel of Mark to reflect on the profound truths of Christ's coming. Two weeks ago, we explored the hope of resurrection from Mark 12, and last week, we looked at the peace we find in Christ. These are not basic, mundane truths; we benefit when we remember who our God is and rekindle our passion for Christ's gospel. In Christ, we have perfect reconciliation with God and complete righteousness before the Father. As Christmas approaches, let's focus on these magnificent realities, resting and rejoicing in our hearts. Joy is our theme this third Sunday of Advent. The angels announced good news of great joy for all people at Jesus' birth, and we will explore how to cultivate joy as the Spirit's fruit, mainly from John 15:1-11. We will explain the Christian's joy, distinguishing it from mere happiness, and see how joy is commanded by God, endures through sorrow, flows from God Himself, and grows as we abide in Christ—trusting in Him. Abiding in Christ nurtures the fruit of joy, because our joy comes from Jesus' own joy, transforming even our hardships into reasons for rejoicing. I. Joy & Happiness Overlap But Are Not the Same - (Jeremiah 33:11, Proverbs 23:24-25, Proverbs 27:9) II. Joy & Rejoicing Are Commanded By God - (Rom. 12:15; Phil 3:1; 4:4; 1 Thess. 5:16) III. Joy Can Still Be Present In Sorrow - (Habakkuk 3:17-18, 2 Corinthians 6:9-10) IV. True Joy Is In God & From God - (John 15:11, Isaiah 42:1) V. Joy Is A Fruit That Grows As We Cultivate it - (John 15:1-11)

Send us a textDo you know what it means to abide in God? Do you have any idea of the importance of this concept? Listen in and find out. Subscribe to enjoy all episodes of God's Toolbox.

In this episode of Straight Bible, we go deep into Jude 16–19 and expose one of the most dangerous realities inside the modern church: people who do what is right in their own eyes while claiming the name of Christ.We break down:

It is in this secret place that we rise above the mere-praying level and be in an intimate relationship with the Lord that genuinely changes our lives. There, we pour our hearts, bring our requests, and receive His peace and perspective. Here, we learn to trust Him as a refuge and a fortress, being confident that He is with us in each trial and the storm.All Rights Reserved, CBN Asia Inc.https://www.cbnasia.com/giveSupport the show

Presented by Julie Busteed The topic has been abiding—remaining in Christ—and why it's important and what the blessings and consequences are for us. How do you continue to remain in Christ? Gem Fadling shared a beautiful picture in one of our Zoom gatherings about what it means to remain—or abide—in Christ. She said to imagine a teacup or mug, and then a pitcher. And the pitcher is over the teacup pouring into the cup continuously. You and I are the teacup. Jesus—through the Holy Spirit—is the pitcher. When we are abiding in Jesus, his Spirit is continually pouring into us and filling us. But the way I often operate is this: once I feel “full”—after spending time reading Scripture, praying, studying, or memorizing—I go about my day and pour myself out into my work, church, and family. Before long, I find myself exhausted and empty again. Then I rush back to reset and refill from his Word. But that's not what abiding is meant to look like. The teacup isn't supposed to move away from the pitcher and come back only when it runs dry. It needs to stay under the steady pour—remaining, receiving, staying connected. When we live that way, we don't pour out from our limited strength. Instead, our cup overflows with Christ's love, and that overflow is what pours into our work and relationships. Abiding is not about exhausting ourselves or trying to do everything on our own. Jesus said, “Apart from me you can do nothing.” We need to stay connected—letting God's Word, his love, and communion with him continually pour into us. When we remain in him, we are filled, strengthened, and able to bear much fruit without becoming depleted. We abide. We remain. And he fills. Don't forget to keep your cup positioned under the pitcher. When you remain filled, it's the overflow that naturally blesses others.

Do you see Jesus as your friend? Do you believe He considers you one?Jesus isn't just a historical figure you can read about. He is your friend, and He desires to have a relationship with you like the closest friendship you could possibly imagine.In this message, Jill Briscoe teaches what it means to know Christ, have Him know you thoroughly, and let Him live His life through you. You'll learn to see Jesus as your forever best friend and source of life. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29?v=20251111

Ultimate Reconciliation of All (1) (audio) David Eells – 12/10/25 I have found that the truth always motivates people to holiness, to turn loose of the world and run after God; but a lie always makes people comfortable where they are, and there are a lot of lies out there. People who like to make up their own gospel turn the grace of God into lasciviousness by choosing to believe that once saved is always saved. That means there's no use in taking any warning from the Lord seriously, since that false doctrine negates the possibility of being lost. These people are not motivated because they erroneously believe their “ticket's been punched.” Today, I'm going to speak to you about a doctrine that's in the church denominations called “ultimate reconciliation of all.” Many Unconditional Eternal Security people find this easy to fall into since in effect you cant be lost. Ultimate Reconciliationists believe there will come a time when the wicked, including the devil and his angels, in some cases, will come out of torment and be reconciled to God. This doctrine did not come from Christians but Unitarians and Universalists who brought it from England to the New England colonies in the 18th century. The fruit of this doctrine is the same as that of unconditional eternal security. If no one can ultimately be lost, why fear God or the warnings of Scripture? It destroys motivation to study and obey the Word of God or evangelize the lost and dying. Like the unconditional eternal security people, many of these will take the mark of the beast and are taking the spiritual mark now. What else would the devil have you believe? I have ministered in several churches that believed this. Generally, the people are very prideful and judgmental of those who do not have their “deep revelation”. They are forced to pick and choose verses in order to justify this doctrine, and it makes them disrespect the Word. I have debated many with this doctrine over the years, some on our live internet chat Bible study a few years ago. When they can't back it up with scriptures, they generally resort to insults. We who believe the Word just don't have “the revelation”. Reconciliationists say the Greek words for forever and ever mean “unto the age of the ages”, meaning when used of those in eternal punishment, it is only for a period of time after which everyone comes out of the lake of fire. They lie. “Unto the age of the ages” is only in one place. (Eph.3:21) unto him [be] the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations for ever and ever (unto the age of the ages) Amen. Here it says, “unto all generations unto the age of the ages”, which is only as long as men have children, clearly making it a period of time. In the four Greek manuscripts I have, which range from the oldest to the Received Text, the second-to-last Greek letter of “age” in this verse is an omicron, the 17th letter of the Greek alphabet, which makes this word singular, “Age”. In every other place, the second-to-last letter in the word “ages” is an alpha, the 1st letter of their alphabet, making this word plural, “Ages”. In every other case where “forever and ever” is the translation, “unto the ages of ages” is the literal wording, which has no end. The manuscripts and Bible Numerics prove this to be the case. (Rev.14:11) and the smoke of their torment goeth up for ever and ever (unto the ages of ages); and they have no rest day and night, they that worship the beast and his image, and whoso receiveth the mark of his name. There is no end to the fiery punishment. Many will receive the mark because of this false doctrine. That means that God would die if it were only a period of time. Notice in (Rev.15:7) And one of the four living creatures gave unto the seven angels seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever. So if they are correct, using the same words, when these people come out of hell, God dies. If it were only a period of time in the following verses, the devil, beast, and false prophet would come out of the lake of fire at the end of that time. (Rev.20:10) And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. Even though many Reconciliationists say they do not believe the devil will be saved, according to this doctrine, he has to be. If there is an end to his torment, God will die for the same phrase is used for the longevity of each. They say that “forever,” Greek: “aionios”, meaning “unto the ages”, is for a period of time, but the Kingdom will cease if that is true. We are told forever is without end. (Luk.1:33) and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Vines says this is a Greek Idiom; i.e., an expression whose meaning cannot be derived from the elements of the word. Idioms can always be explained by their usage in the text. If one said, “After he kicked the bucket, I went to the funeral”, you know that “kicked the bucket” means death. It is so with the Greek word for “for ever” or “eternal”. Forever is clearly set apart from a period of time in this verse: (Phm.15) For perhaps he was therefore parted [from thee] for a season, that thou shouldest have him for ever. Clearly “for ever” is far more than a period of time. They also say eternal, which is the same Greek word, “aionios”, meaning “unto the ages”, and has no end. (Joh.10:28) and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. Clearly the elect only are eternal and eternal is clearly set apart from a period of time in this verse: (2 Cor.4:18) while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal (temporary or for a season); but the things which are not seen are eternal. If eternal is only a period of time, then at the end of that period, the wicked come out of hell and God and the righteous die. (Mat.25:46) And these shall go away into eternal punishment: but the righteous into eternal life. If “eternal” is only a period of time, then, according to this doctrine, God, the Holy Spirit, the Kingdom of God, the new body, etc., would come to an end; but God is also immortal, i.e., deathless (1 Timothy 6:16); the Holy Spirit is eternal (Hebrews 9:14); the Kingdom is eternal (2 Peter 1:11); and the new body, which is also immortal, i.e., deathless, is eternal (1 Cor­inthians 15:52,53; 2 Corinthians 5:1). Here is the clincher: Those who do not have eternal life will “not see life”. (Joh.3:36) He that believeth on the Son hath eternal life (Greek: aionios; “unto the ages”); but he that obeyeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him. We can't twist those words. “Not see life” clearly means never. Those who have eternal sin “never” get forgiveness. (Mar.3:29) but whosoever shall blaspheme against the Holy Spirit hath never forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin. Once again, we can't twist those words. Reconciliationists use the following verse to claim that “eternal” has an end. (Rom.16:25) Now to him that is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which hath been kept in silence through times eternal, (26) but now is manifested, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God. There is no end of eternity, just as God here is eternal, but there are points in eternity when things are manifested like the revelation of Christ here. From our point of view, eternity goes into the past and into the future. Something may be eternally future without being eternally past. For instance, we have eternal life because we entered into eternity. The spiritual man in Jesus is eternal for he came out of God. His flesh had a beginning for He was sown of God and born of Mary.  And even before that He was “the beginning of the creation of God” and “the first-born of all creation”. This was a point in eternity. When other terminology is used in the Word as we have seen, the Ultimate Reconciliationists are at a loss. (Isa.66:24) And they shall go forth, and look upon the dead bodies of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh. Clearly the wicked souls do not die for they are in eternal fire. (Job.5:6) How much less man, that is a worm! And the son of man, that is a worm! Which will not come out of fire. (Mar.9:47) ... it is good for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell; (48) where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. Notice that using different words they will always be in fire. (Psa.49:19) He shall go to the generation of his fathers; They shall never see the light. Again using other words they will never see the light of truth. They also say, “everlasting” is a period of time, but as we can see, it has no end! (Jer.20:11) But Jehovah is with me as a mighty one [and] a terrible: therefore my persecutors shall stumble, and they shall not prevail; they shall be utterly put to shame, because they have not dealt wisely, even with an everlasting dishonor which shall never be forgotten. Everlasting here is clearly eternal. When I was younger, “Ultimate Reconciliation” was often called the “Restoration of All Things,” taken from the KJV. (Acts 3:21) whom the heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things (Things is not in the original Greek.), whereof God spake by the mouth of His holy prophets that have been. Restoration here is “apokatastasis,” meaning “back in order”. Only God's people can go back to order because the rest never had order. Notice that when the Lord returns after the Tribulation, the “restoration of all” of His elect is completed. At that time, He is not restoring the wicked but destroying them. (Rev.19:15) And out of his mouth proceedeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness of the wrath of God, the Almighty. Even a thousand years later, when all the wicked are resurrected at the Great White Throne judgment, they are taken from hell and thrown in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:7-15). That makes it clear that “all” is all of the elect, not all people, as even the Jews understood. To the Jews, “all” meant all of the elect. It is the same today. All of the elect, but without racial distinction, classes or conditions of people, rather than just physical Jews. All Israel is all elect Jews and Gentiles who are grafted into the olive tree (Romans 11:19-24,26), not those who are broken off. Compare the “all” in Mark 1:5 and Luke 7:29-30, where “all” is clearly the elect. The “all” whom the Father gives to Jesus are the elect in John 17:6,9 and in John 6:37,45. We see the same thing when we look at John 8:2, Acts 22:15, 2 Corinthians 3:2 and 1 Corinthians 15:22. Compare Romans 12:3 and 2 Thessalonians 3:2. Read 1 Timothy 2:6, Colossians 3:11 and Matthew 20:28. Jesus came to save only all of His own (Isaiah 53:8,11; Luke 1:68,77; Romans 9:21). God is not wishing that any of His people perish (2 Peter 3:9). (Rom.9:11) For [the children] being not yet born, neither having done anything good or bad, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth, (12) it was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. (13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. Reconciliationists say that God unconditionally loves the whole world and could not fail to save it. They like to use this verse as proof. (Joh.3:16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life. Yet, God clearly specifies what part of the world He loves here as “whosoever believeth”. Jesus disagreed with their interpretation of this verse. (Joh.14:21) He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself unto him. (22) Judas (not Iscariot) saith unto him, Lord, what is come to pass that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? (23) Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my word: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. (Joh.15:10) If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. (15:14) Ye are my friends, if ye do the things which I command you. Here's even more proof from the Word: (Rom.9:13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. (Psa.5:5) The arrogant shall not stand in thy sight: Thou hatest all workers of iniquity. (Psa.11:5) Jehovah trieth the righteous; But the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth. (Pro.6:16-19) There are six things which Jehovah hateth; Yea, seven which are an abomination unto him: (17) Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood; (18) A heart that deviseth wicked purposes, Feet that are swift in running to mischief, (19) A false witness that uttereth lies, And he that soweth discord among brethren. (Pro.8:17) I love them that love me; And those that seek me diligently shall find me. (Hos.9:15) All their wickedness is in Gilgal; for there I hated them: because of the wickedness of their doings I will drive them out of my house; I will love them no more; all their princes are revolters. Friends, we cannot make God's love a worldly love. God would not be love if He permitted the wicked into His Kingdom to leaven the whole lump. God does not dwell in time and can, therefore, love by faith the elect whom He foreknew and foreordained. (Rom.9:11) for [the children] being not yet born, neither having done anything good or bad, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth, (12) it was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. (13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. (Psa. 11:5) Jehovah trieth the righteous; But the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth. God's people who live in sin will prove themselves called but not chosen, and He will love them no more. (Hos.9:15) All their wickedness is in Gilgal; for there I hated them: because of the wickedness of their doings I will drive them out of my house; I will love them no more; all their princes are revolters. This is not traditional, but I hope I've made it clear. (1 Cor.15:22) For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. Ultimate reconciliationists use this verse to say that those in Adam, the whole natural man creation, and those in Christ, the whole spiritual man creation, are the same people, so therefore God will save all. However, the next verse narrows those “in Christ” to those who are His at His coming. (23) But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; then they that are Christ's, at his coming. As most know, when Jesus comes, He will eternally destroy the wicked who were obviously not in Him. (2 Thes.1:7) and to you that are afflicted rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of his power in flaming fire, (8) rendering vengeance to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus: (9) who shall suffer punishment, [even] eternal destruction from the face of the Lord....   PREDESTINED AND CHOSEN Let us see who the full measure of those in Christ are, and also if God ever planned to reconcile all of Adam's seed. “Predestine” means “to determine destiny before it happens”. “Foreordain”, which is the same Greek word, means “to ordain an event before it takes place”. (Eph.1:4) even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blemish before him in love: (5) having foreordained us unto adoption as sons through Jesus Christ unto himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. You who are manifesting sonship by bearing fruit have been chosen and are being drawn by God. (Rom.8:29) For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained (predestined) [to be] conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. God foreknew and decreed all who come to the likeness of Jesus, but not the apostate. “Foreknew” here does not mean that He looked into the future and saw what we would be. “Foreknew” here means “to know before” and is not connected with actions or events, but persons. God knew these people before the foundation of the world because He does not dwell in time. God conceives and knows what He creates before He speaks it into existence, just as we conceive and design something first in our mind before we make it. “Knew” speaks of intimate knowledge; for instance, Adam knew Eve. Jesus will say to those who called Him Lord but do not do the will of the Father, (Mat.7:23) “And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you (I.e.,from the foundation of the world): depart from me, ye that work iniquity”. To the foolish virgins who had not the oil of the Spirit, Jesus said, “I know you not”. The ones that God intimately knew He “foreordained” before the creation to be conformed to the image of Jesus. God is creating us through His gift of faith and grace and His Word in us. These are the people on the narrow road. This is grace. (Rom.8:30) and whom he foreordained, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. We see here that all who are foreordained will be called, justified, and glorified. They will not fall away but will bear the fruit of Christ. Are there others who are called but not foreordained? Let us see. (2 Tim.1:9) who saved us, and called us with a holy calling … Notice that only the saved are called. “Called” is from the Greek word “kaleo”, which means “to invite”. “Called” is an invitation given only to God's people (for more proof, read Hebrews 3:1; Hosea 11:1; 1 Timothy 6:11,12; Matthew 25:14; Romans 1:6,7) to partake of His heavenly benefits in Christ in order to bear fruit. Those who bear fruit 30-, 60-, or 100-fold will be proven to be the chosen, or picked. Naturally, if at harvest time you have no fruit, rotten fruit, or unripe fruit, you will not be picked. The called are the vineyard of God (Isaiah 5:7). The chosen are the much smaller percentage who bear fruit (verse 10). (Mat.22:14) For many are called, but few chosen (Greek: eklektos; “elect”). The “called” can fall, but the elect or chosen will not ultimately. (Hos.11:1) When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt. (2) The more [the prophets] called them, the more they went from them .... The Lord saved those who ate the lamb and were baptized in the Red Sea. He then tried them in the wilderness to see who would be a believer in the midst of trials, and only those entered the Promised Land. Jude warned the called of this very thing. (Jud.1) Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are called ... (5) Now I desire to put you in remembrance, though ye know all things once for all, that the Lord, having saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. Notice that the called were saved, but some did not continue in faith to bear fruit and were destroyed. Friends, God is not looking for what we loosely call “Christians”, but believers or disciples, as they were called. Jesus gave us very clear examples of His servants who are called but do not come and partake in order to bear fruit. Jesus shared a parable in which a king made a marriage feast for His son. (Mat.22:3) … and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden (Greek: “called”) to the marriage feast: and they would not come. They were full of excuses (a farm, merchandise, a new wife, etc.). (Mat.22:8) Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they that were bidden were not worthy. Even one who appeared to come did not have on a wedding garment, which implies putting on Christ (Romans 13:14) or putting on righteous acts (Revelation 19:8). (Mat.22:13) Then the king said to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and cast him out into the outer darkness; there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth. (14) For many are called, but few chosen. A few of the called are chosen or elect because they bear fruit. (Mat.25:14) For [it is] as [when] a man, going into another country, called his own servants (Greek: “bondservants”), and delivered unto them his goods. (15) And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one; to each according to his several ability; and he went on his journey. Obviously, the man who went away was the Lord, and His bondservants are His people. Two of these example servants brought forth fruit of the talent given them (Matthew 25:20-22), but one buried his in the earth (used his talent for the earthly, Matthew 25:24,25). When our Lord returns, He will say, “And cast ye out the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth” (Mat.25:30). The apostle Paul, who said of himself that he was called in Galatians 1:6, also said, “But I buffet my body, and bring it into bondage: lest by any means, after that I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected” (That's the Greek word for “reprobated”) (1 Cor.9:27). There is much more proof that the saved and the called can fall. Some good examples are 2 Peter 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 6:11,12; Hebrews 3:1,6,12,14, and Romans 11:1-7,19-23. Friend, you probably know if you are called, but are you chosen? You must be diligent in your walk of faith to prove this with fruit. (2Pe.1:10) Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election (“choosing”) sure: for if ye do these things (the attributes of Christ listed in verses 5-7), ye shall never stumble: (11) for thus shall be richly supplied unto you the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. God, at the cross, has already given us everything that we need to bear fruit through faith. (3) Seeing that his divine power hath granted unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that called us by his own glory and virtue; (4) whereby he hath granted unto us his precious and exceeding great promises; that through these ye may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust. Faith in the promises through the midst of trials will give us the fruit. The called have the power and the opportunity. The called and the chosen, or foreordained, use the power by faith and take the opportunity. The only ones who will ultimately be with the Lord are identified in this verse. (Rev.17:14) These shall war against the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings; and they [also shall overcome] that are with him, called and chosen and faithful. Notice that the called who are chosen will be faithful. I did not make these verses up; they are the Word of God. Those who have eyes and ears will see and understand, but the rest will justify their religion and ignore the Scriptures. Before time and the future, God sovereignly spoke the end from the beginning, bringing these things into existence in time. Some would argue, “How could God make a promise to all of His called and then not keep it for those who do not bear fruit?” The answer is that every promise in the Bible is useless until someone walks by faith in it. Our part of the covenant is faith; God's part is power and salvation. We can break the covenant through unbelief. (Num.14:11) And the Lord said unto Moses, How long will this people despise me? and how long will they not believe in me, for all the signs which I have wrought among them? (12) I will smite them with the pestilence, and disinherit them, and will make of thee a nation greater and mightier than they. Notice that God is saying this to His own people who did not believe that He would disinherit them. Lest any believe that God cannot make a promise and then take it back when they do not walk in faith, pay attention to this: (Num.14:23) surely they shall not see the land which I sware unto their fathers, neither shall any of them that despised me see it. (30) surely ye shall not come into the land, concerning which I sware that I would make you dwell therein, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun. (34) and ye shall know my alienation (Hebrew: “revoking of my promise”). Unless we mix faith with God's promises, they are void. (Heb.4:2) For indeed we have had good tidings preached unto us, even as also they (God's people): but the word of hearing did not profit them, because it was not united by faith with them that heard. Many Israelites walked in sin and were disinherited and blotted out of God's book. (Exo.32:33) And the Lord said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book. The same is true of the Christians who do not overcome sin. Notice what the Lord said to the church. (Rev.3:5) He that overcometh shall thus be arrayed in white garments; and I will in no wise blot his name out of the book of life... They will be rejected from the body of Christ. (Rev.3:16) So because thou art lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spew thee out of my mouth. Many of God's people, Israel, were broken off because of unbelief, and Christians who were grafted in but do not walk by faith will be too. (Rom.11:20) Well; by their unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by thy faith. Be not highminded, but fear: (21) for if God spared not the natural branches, neither will he spare thee. (22) Behold then the goodness and severity of God: toward them that fell, severity; but toward thee, God's goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. Those who are still grafted in at the end are called “all Israel”… (26) and so all Israel shall be saved... Those who are still in the Book of Life, still grafted in, are the elect (Greek: “chosen”). (Rom.11:2) God did not cast off his people, which he foreknew ... (5) Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election (Greek: “chosen”) of grace. A remnant is the ones who are left. Notice that they are foreknown and chosen. Sovereign God will have those who are truly His. Abiding in Christ is where salvation is. Some say God gave us the gift of eternal life so He cannot take it back. In Galatians 3:16, we are told, “To Abraham were the promises spoken, and to his seed. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many, but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ”. So the promises were given to Christ, not to us individually. The only way the promises are ours is if we abide in Christ. Abiding in Christ is bearing fruit (John 15:1-6), walking as he walked (1 John 2:3-6), believing the same teachings given by Jesus and the apostles (1 John 2:24; Jude 3; Matthew 28:20), not adding or subtracting from the Word (Revelation 22:18,19), not walking in sin (1 John 3:5,6), and keeping his commandments (1 John 3:24). In Christ is the only place we can claim the gift of eternal life. (1Jn.5:11) ... God gave unto us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. God does not have to take His gift back; His people walk out of it. (1 Cor.6:18) ... Every sin that a man doeth is without the body ... When you walk in willful sin, you are not abiding in His body, for in him is no sin (1Jn.3:5). (6) Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not … For instance, fornication, whether spiritual or physical, takes away the members of Christ and makes them members of a harlot (1 Corinthians 6:15,18). Only Christ and those abiding in Him are chosen. (Eph. 1:4) Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world... Only Christ and those abiding in Him are going to heaven. (Joh.3:13) And no one hath ascended into heaven, but he that descended out of heaven... Jesus Christ is the Manna from heaven, the Word, Who takes up residence in those who love Him; this is the fruit that God is coming to choose. By this time, I am sure some are thinking that they do not measure up. We must first abide in Christ by faith accepting the gospel report that “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ living in me: and that [life] which I now live in the flesh I live in faith, [the faith] which is in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me” (Gal.2:20). Those who walk by faith that they are dead to sin and Christ now lives in them are accounted as righteous until God uses that faith to manifest righteousness in them. (Gal.3:6) Even as Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned unto him for righteousness. Amen. Next, I'd like to share with you a couple of testimonies from our website of people who received the revelation of the error in their thinking concerning their own salvation.   Coming Judgment on the Lukewarm Sandy - 01/15/2014 I had a dream that thousands of demons entered my bedroom, then jumped on me while I was in bed, devouring my flesh. I was totally paralyzed. I repeatedly shouted out, “You must flee, in the name of Jesus!” These demons continued to attack me. There was total darkness -- no Jesus. It was HORRIFYING. I felt as though I was in the pits of hell, and this is where my soul is going if I don't change my ways. Then I was whisked away, and I was standing in front of a large cross. From the center of the cross, a bright light was shining. I heard the Lord say to me, “Come to the cross. I did not hear or respond to your cries because you are not abiding in Me. Horrific evil is here, and more is coming, and if you do not abide in Me, you will be devoured. I will not hear nor respond to your cries, if you do not abide in me, and you will not be able to fight off this evil in your own strength”.  Then I was whisked back to my bed, where the demons were devouring me again. I was once again paralyzed. I breathed on them, saying, “Jesus”, and they eventually all fled. I woke up with tears streaming down my face, crying out to the Lord. Now, here is what is so IRONIC: I considered myself to be a born-again, saved Christian! Over the past few years, I've started to walk in the ways of the world, thinking it is okay because ‘I know the Lord loves me; I am a good person and I am saved.' How many other Christians are thinking in the same way? How many other Christians are not truly saved? I turned away from Jesus in my walk. It was a slow and subtle turning away, convincing myself all along the way that I can walk my walk, give the Lord ‘courtesy prayer' and everything will be okay. I WAS SO WRONG.  Thank You, LORD, for Your warning, as horrifying as it was. Thank You, LORD, for giving me another chance to make You Lord of my life.   My Salvation and Deliverance from Satanic Music James Austin - 07/08/2008 When I was a child and up to the age of 15, I had gone to some Baptist and Methodist churches off and on. I had even been what I believed at the time to be saved and baptized. I never really placed importance in my salvation as most Christians at the time. I was scared about hell, so I thought if I got saved, then I would go to heaven and still do whatever I wanted. When I was about 16, I cared only about the world and gave God no attention at all. I was associating with people who weren't Christian and listening to music that wasn't Godly. I began to stop believing that there was a God and didn't care if He even existed. A year and a half ago, I was up late one night and I had nothing to do and I started thinking about life and the world and I felt a sudden loneliness and sadness, and I looked up and said, “God, if You are real and Your Word is true, then help me; I want to know the truth.” I don't think it was even two weeks and God led a brother I work with by the name of Nehemiah to me to inquire about carpooling with me. By this time, I had forgotten about what I had asked God. I was still listening to satanic music and living very worldly. The first week he rode with me to work, I didn't play any music because I began to feel ashamed and did not want people to know which music I listened to. At this time, I didn't know Nehemiah was a Christian. A few weeks later, someone else with whom we were carpooling informed me that Nehemiah was a Christian. Then I really felt low and inadequate to be around him. One day, I was looking at some space nebula and stuff, and I saw what looked like Jesus' face in one of these objects in space. Then I started thinking about God even more. I asked Nehemiah one day about it, and we began talking, and he told me some things the Bible spoke of. Then, after about two weeks of talking and debating with him, he led me to your website, and I started reading and listening to some of your stuff and became very fearful of where I was headed. That morning when I got home from work, I cried to God to forgive me and save me. I confessed to so many evil things I had done and wept, and then felt a peace come over me. I have been reading and listening to your programs and teachings ever since, and I feel the Holy Spirit every time I do. God began to work in me, and I bought your “Sovereign God” book and an ASV Bible. Now I have the New Testament on audio, and I only have the desire to listen to music that glorifies God, and I listen and read the Word of God. I have lost the desire to watch all TV programs because I can now see the sinful nature of TV and how TV glorifies sin. I believe God has saved me and He also healed me from plantar fasciitis (a painful tendon injury) by faith alone. Glory to God! God Bless you, brothers and sisters. I don't listen to evil music, and I feel better inside. God has really changed me. Thank you! I had sent an email about my wife a while ago, but I couldn't remember if I had ever given my testimony to you. My wife is still an unbeliever, but I continue to pray for her salvation. I believe that one day God, in some way, will also save her.

Do you see Jesus as your friend? Do you believe He considers you one?Jesus isn't just a historical figure you can read about. He is your friend, and He desires to have a relationship with you like the closest friendship you could possibly imagine.In this message, Jill Briscoe teaches what it means to know Christ, have Him know you thoroughly, and let Him live His life through you. You'll learn to see Jesus as your forever best friend and source of life. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1141/29?v=20251111

Welcome back to The Literary Life podcast and one of our "best of" episodes from the vault! Due to the busyness of the holiday season, we thought this would be the perfect time to bring you a replay from our archives instead of starting a brand new book discussion series. This week, we re-air the inaugural episode of The Literary Life, in which Cindy and Angelina introduce the podcast and what they mean when they talk about having a "literary life." Each of them share how stories have shaped their personal lives, as well as how they believe stories have the power to shape culture. You can find and listen to the other 3 introductory episodes of The Literary Life mentioned in this replay at the links below- Episode 2: The Interview Episode Episode 3: The Importance of Detective Fiction Episode 4: Gaudy Night, Ch. 1-3 Happening now–the House of Humane Letters Christmas sale! Head over to the website to peruse the discounted webinars and mini-classes on sale, already discounted, no coupon code needed. Don't forget to check out this coming year's annual Literary Life Online Conference, happening January 23-30, 2026, "The Letter Killeth, but the Spirit Quickeneth: Reading Like a Human". Our speakers will be Dr. Jason Baxter, Jenn Rogers, Dr. Anne Phillips, and, of course, Angelina Stanford and Thomas Banks. Finally, you can also sign up now for upcoming classes like "Abiding in the Fields: Spenser, Milton, and the Pastoral Poetic Tradition" taught by Dr. Anne Phillips, or Dr. Michael Drought's "Viking and Old Norse Culture." For the full show notes of this episode, including quotes, book links, and this week's poem, please visit https://theliterary.life/306. 

Daniel tells us when all prophecies will be fulfilled.Reading Plan: Old Testament - Daniel 9-10Psalms - Psalm 140:1-5Gospels - John 15:1-17New Testament - Revelation 11:1-14

Presented by Julie Busteed Abiding in Jesus—remaining with him—is an active daily practice. The Apostle John writes: By this we know we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked (1 John 2:5b-6). How do you and I walk the way Jesus walked? Reading the Gospels, we see how often he withdrew to spend time alone with the Father—on a mountain, in a quiet place, away from the crowds—to pray, listen, and discern God's will. We are called to do the same. Staying connected to the vine is essential for our life. Just as branches receive a continuous flow of nutrients from the vine, we receive strength, wisdom, love, and joy from Christ. The connection is vital: severed from the vine, branches wither and cannot bear fruit. Likewise, apart from Jesus, we cannot thrive or produce lasting fruit. Jesus promises those who remain in him will bear much fruit. This fruit shows up in our character—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. It shows up in our relationships, in our work, in our ability to forgive, in our desire to serve, and in the joy and strength we receive from Christ himself. Abiding produces a life that reflects Jesus. Jesus also promises joy. Not a surface happiness that depends on circumstances, but his own joy, placed within us—a steady, settled gladness that cannot be shaken by what happens around us. But Jesus also speaks honestly about the consequences of not remaining in him. He says if anyone does not abide in him, that person is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned (John 15:6). Branches disconnected from the vine cannot produce fruit. They wither. They dry up. They lose the life and nourishment that comes only from staying connected to the vine. Jesus isn't threatening his disciples; he's warning them with love. He knows the pressures they will face. He knows how easy it is to drift, to try to live the Christian life in our own strength, to rely on our own wisdom, or to become spiritually stagnant. Apart from him, he says, you can do nothing. This is not meant to discourage us—but to draw us nearer to the source of life. Jesus wants his disciples, and us today, to understand that staying close to him is not optional for a fruitful life; it is essential.

Under the old covenant, priests were commanded not to sweat—a prophetic picture that ministry was never meant to be fueled by human effort. Toil is the evidence we're still operating under the law.Jesus invites us into the abiding life, where His presence becomes the power behind everything we do. No striving. No proving. Just remaining in Him.Support the show

Abiding In The Light: The Forerunner - Pastor Brian Bergen by Walnut Hill Comm. Church

Presented by Julie Busteed We don't use the word abide very often today. Yet Jesus uses it eleven times in John 15. The scene is the Last Supper. He has just washed his disciples' feet, and now he is teaching and praying for them—sharing his final words with them before the crucifixion. Because Jesus emphasizes this word so strongly, it's worth pausing to understand what he meant. He says: Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing (John 15:4–5, ESV). The Greek word menō, translated “abide,” means to remain, stay, or dwell. It's an active word—not passive—implying an ongoing, intentional relationship. Some Bible translations even use the word remain. Matthew Henry, in his commentary, highlights the context well: Jesus was about to leave his disciples after being with them for three years. The disciples would soon face the temptation to drift from him, from each other, and from his teaching—perhaps even to return to the old patterns of the law. Jesus impresses on them the urgent importance of remaining in him and in community with one another. And he assures them that the helper, the Holy Spirit, would come to strengthen and sustain them.[1] In this passage, Jesus uses the image of the vine and the branches. Believers in Christ are the branches; he is the vine. A life of fruitfulness depends on staying connected to him. To abide in Christ starts with a relationship. The first step is to come to him as Lord and Savior, recognizing your need for forgiveness and grace. But that's only the beginning. As you follow him, the relationship grows deeper. You learn who he is, what he teaches, and how he calls each of us to live in obedience to him. To love God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. And love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-39). Abiding is a lifelong journey of growing, obeying, and staying connected. — [1] Matthew Henry, “John 15,” Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible, BibleGateway, n.d., https://www.biblegateway.com/.

Abiding in Jesus and experiencing and spreading His peace

This week in our Advent series Between Two Advents, we turn to Isaiah 11 and the sharp words of John the Baptist. Scripture shows us a world cut down like a stump and a people tempted to trust in false security. But Jesus calls us back to Himself, the true Branch who gives life. As we stay connected to Him, He produces fruit in us and fills us with the hope of the peaceable Kingdom He will bring in full at His return. Join us as we explore what it means to remain in Christ while we wait for His coming.   Isaiah 11:1–10 Romans 15:4–13 Matthew 3:1–12  

Sunday Service | A teaching on John 15:1-18 with Pastor Josh BlackVictory Calvary Chapel is a church in Menifee, California. We gather for Jesus, to worship Him, to follow Him, and represent Him wherever we go. To learn more, visit us at www.victorycc.com.

Other scriptures:Exodus 33:18-23Leviticus 15:19-25

Loneliness and spiritual distance spike during busy or painful seasons, but God hasn’t moved—our focus often has. Cindi McMenamin unpacks spiritual closeness, biblical community, and peace over loneliness through Hebrews 10:25, offering practical resets for reconnecting to God’s voice and His people. The first two sentences intentionally spotlight top keywords like God seems distant, biblical encouragement, and Hebrews 10 community for better discoverability. Highlights When God feels far, check the direction of your heart before checking the volume of His voice. Belief knows about God; obedience walks toward Him. Worry works like noise-canceling headphones… but the cheap kind with static. God’s Word and Jesus aren’t separate subscriptions—they’re the same plan. Avoiding community with believers often amplifies loneliness, not peace. Encouragement is a two-way street, and we all need construction cones in busy months. Closeness to God grows with intentional daily choices, not seasonal luck. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: When God Seems Distant By Cindi McMenamin Bible Reading:“And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” - Hebrews 10:25 NLT Are there days when you feel lonely and you wonder why? Isn’t God supposed to always be with you? Didn’t He promise in Hebrews 13:5 that He’d never leave His people? So why do you still feel lonely? Often, we are tempted to say, “God’s not speaking to me. He’s become distant.” But in reality, you and I are the ones who stopped talking to, stopped listening, or moved further away from Him. God promises us in Romans 8:38-39 that nothing can separate us from His love, so if you feel like God is distant, perhaps it’s a result of one or more of these three scenarios: You might not be following Him closely. When we are merely believers, but not obedient followers of Jesus, the abundant life Jesus promised us in John 10:10 is not ours and this can result in feeling anxious, uncertain, and lonely. Through a lack of obedience to God or misplaced priorities, we can hold back the blessings He has for those who fully surrender to Him. It’s possible to possess a head knowledge of God (in which we know what we’re supposed to do and not to do), without engaging our hearts and loving Him with all that we are. That’s when we become stuck between the now and the not yet. We live in the now of the difficulties of life on our own and have not yet experienced the joys and blessings of a life fully surrendered to Him. In the now, you may have an understanding that there’s a God and you’ll be held accountable to Him. But you don’t yet have enough of an understanding of Him, or passion for Him, to pursue a closer relationship with Him that will lead to the fulfillment you seek. You might be worrying and not clinging to His Word. Mark 4:19 tells us the worries of this world choke the Word’s fruitfulness in our lives. If we claim God’s not talking to us through His Word, it’s possible we are worriers and our worrisome thoughts and anxieties are drowning out God’s voice. Don’t underestimate the importance of being in God’s Word regularly in order to grow closer to Jesus and to keep from sin (worry is just one sin among many). Psalm 119:9 asks: “How can a [person] keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word” (NASB). To live in close relationship with God is to embrace Jesus and His Word because Jesus is defined in John 1:1 as the Word. To accept Him is to accept His Word. To love Him is to love His Word. To obey Him and abide in (or dwell closely with) Him, is to obey and abide in His Word. God’s Word is for us today just as much as Jesus is for us today. We can’t separate the two or claim we want Jesus, but His Word is no longer relevant. Abiding in His Word is not optional for the follower of Christ, it’s essential. You might be avoiding other believers. Ignoring God’s commands in His Word, harboring sin in our lives, or avoiding community with other Christ-followers can also lead to feelings of loneliness. In Psalm 25, David asked God to turn to him and be gracious to him because he was lonely and afflicted. David prayed, “Relieve the troubles of my heart and free me from my anguish. Look on my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins” (verses 16-18). David acknowledged a direct correlation between sin in his life and the loneliness he experienced—likely from a separation from God’s people. (While sin itself doesn’t separate us from God’s presence, we often voluntarily separate ourselves from God’s people when we’re in sin.) David ended his song with these words: “May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord, is in you” (verse 21). David knew that the key to personal fulfillment and even God’s protection was that he maintain integrity and uprightness and keep his hope firmly in the Lord. Integrity and uprightness can put us in a place where we experience less loneliness. And we can live with integrity when we embrace God’s Word and welcome the fellowship and accountability of God’s people. Intersecting Faith & Life: Do you need to set your heart on growing in your love relationship with God? Do you need to get into His Word so you will know Him more fully and He will be more than just a belief system? Or do you need to connect with a local church and become more closely intertwined with other believers? God is waiting for you to leave behind your loneliness and experience His presence—and His people—once again. Lord, I realize You are not the One who distances Yourself. Help me to get back into Your Word and into the places where Your people gather. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Further Reading: Romans 8:38-39. For more on overcoming your loneliness, see Cindi’s book, The New Loneliness Devotional: 50 Days to a Closer Connection with God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this engaging conversation, Kyle and Leslie share their journey of faith, career transitions, and the challenges they faced while launching C12 during a tumultuous time. They discuss the importance of silent retreats for clarity, the role of community support, and how they discerned God's will together. Their story highlights the significance of trusting in God's faithfulness and the growth that often follows struggles, emphasizing the power of connection and divine guidance in their lives.We want to hear from YOU! If you would like to submit a question or comment for further discussion, please email us at: questions@abideministries.com.

Today on LEADING THE WAY, pastor and author, Dr. Michael Youssef, invites you to move beyond rote obedience into a life of committed and faithful righteousness - a change that will impact your family and world for eternity! (Matthew 5) Support the show: https://au.ltw.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Abiding Now, Confidence Later

Abiding in Christ is the true source of a fruitful life. Hidden roots of faith grow stronger through storms, revealing our dependence on Him. As we remain rooted in His love, He shapes a future of fruitfulness and glory that we cannot yet see but will one day reveal His purpose in us.

Pastor Randy Bradley

Darion Helmuth - Sunday morning opening message.

We want peace, but it's hard to find and harder to maintain. Today, as we study Philippians 4, we'll see God's instructions through Paul on how to have His peace and abide in it. Join us for today's podcast on Philippians chapter 4!   Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. In 2025, we were awarded #10 on the list of the "Best 100 Bible Podcasts" list from www.millionpodcasts.com. We are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

In this powerful episode of the Finding God Podcast, host Keana W. Mitchell explores the emotional and spiritual impact of toxic church culture and how setting boundaries can be a sacred act of healing. Building on last week's episode about fear-based theology and its effects on mental health, Keana dives into how exclusion, racism, spiritual abuse, and prosperity gospel distort the image of God and damage our relationship with the Divine.Through Scripture, psychological insight, and trauma-informed reflection, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical tools for reclaiming your spiritual autonomy. Whether you've experienced religious trauma or are simply seeking a more authentic connection with God, this episode affirms that you are worthy of love, safety, and spiritual clarity.

Abiding in Jesus, nobody hangs out anymore and rapid fire Thanksgiving!...And Another Thing with Jim looks deeper into theology and culture––and takes you along.  Email another things in to anotherwithjim@gmail.com.

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Today on Stinchfield, we expose the real cost of unfettered immigration in Great Britain and why the flood of unvetted migrants, specifically from Muslim-majority nations, has collided head-on with the values that once made the UK a beacon of free speech. The result? A nation where simply expressing an opinion can get you detained. We have shocking video police arresting citizens for holding signs, questioning official narratives, or posting comments online. You will watch British officers enforce “speech laws” that look more like the tactics of an authoritarian regime than a Western democracy. This is what happens when cultural assimilation collapses, and the government starts criminalizing dissent in the name of “tolerance.” But that’s just the first punch. We also dive deep into the Zelensky–Ukraine corruption scandal exploding right now. It’s everything I’ve been warning you about: American taxpayer dollars funneled into a system riddled with graft, insider deals, and oligarch kickbacks. Billions meant for defense and humanitarian aid are now confirmed to have lined the pockets of Ukrainian officials, exactly what the political class and the media insisted would “never” happen. Washington asked for blind loyalty.I asked for accountability.And guess who turned out to be right? We show you the receipts, the whistleblowers, and the smoking-gun evidence that proves the DC foreign-aid machine is as rotten as ever. https://GrantLovesGold.com www.EnergizedHealth.com/Grant www.PatriotMobile.com/Grant Https://Twc.Health/Grant Use "Grant" for 10% Off See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all want a life that feels full--but Jesus defines abundance in a wav that flips our assumptions upside down. In Abundant: The Life We All Want, we discover that true fullness isn't found in possessions, comfort, or control. but in a Person. The abundant life Jesus offers isn't about getting more, it's about belonging more- belonging to Him. Through His words in John 10:10, we'l see that real abundance is peace that can't be stolen, joy that can't be shaken, and life that begins now and lasts forever. At In Focus Church, love God, love people and reach the world with God's love is more than a mission statement. it is how we want to live. We want to boldlv share the love of Jesus with others. We hope you will want to be a part of what God is doing in and through IFC as we continue to be a church that displays the gospel through how we love one another and the world around us as Christ loved us first. Along with a powerful time in the Word of God, we will also be able to worship God wholeheartedly as He deserves. Whether you join us in person or online, we look forward to worshiping with you! And if you are coming on Sunday, bring someone with you! God is about to do some more miracles!

This Passage give us six insights into Jesus' presence with His followers through the Holy Spirit

This morning we continue our study verse by verse through the book of 1 John. False teachers had infiltrated the assembly of God's people, but they have now departed, effectively demonstrating they never truly belonged to the family. The Apostle John explains further the potential damage that is done by those who preach a Jesus not consistent with the Scriptures. He also explains the precious promises of God in Christ for all believe and abide in Him. Scripture text is 1 John 2:18-27.

Not the Boss of Me Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 John 3:4-7 Episode Summary In part 8 of our 1 John series, Pastor Michael tells the story of Timmy the Tiny, Terrible T-Rex to illustrate our resistance to authority - especially God's. We think refusing to listen to God proves our independence, but it actually proves we're enslaved to our own desires. Through 1 John's teaching, we discover that real freedom isn't doing whatever we want, but wanting what is right because Jesus has set our hearts free. Key Points - Sin isn't just breaking rules - it's living like God's authority doesn't apply to us - Jesus came to remove both the guilt of sin (through forgiveness) and the power of sin (through freedom) - Abiding in Christ means staying connected like a branch to a vine, dependent on Him for everything - Practicing righteousness means your overall life pattern shows you're being shaped by Jesus - Jesus is the standard of righteousness, not comparison with other people Main Takeaway Living like you don't have to listen to God doesn't prove you are independent - it proves you are enslaved to your drives and desires. Real freedom isn't doing whatever you want; it's wanting what is right because your heart has been set free. Memorable Quotes - "Living like you don't have to listen to God doesn't prove you are independent — it proves you are enslaved." - "Sin isn't just messing up. It's saying, 'God is not the boss of me.'" - "Jesus didn't show up just to teach about sin, or even just to expose sin. He came to REMOVE sin." - "Abiding in Jesus isn't really about trying harder. It's about being dependent on Him for everything." - "Real freedom isn't doing whatever you want — real freedom is wanting what is RIGHT because your heart has been set free." - "People reject God's standards of right and wrong because they think it puts them in chains. In truth, it enslaves you to something else." Reflection Question Instead of saying "You can't tell me what to do," do you have the guts and humility to say "God, change me" - and then receive what comes? Tune in to hear about Timmy the Terrible T-Rex, Pastor Michael's legendary childhood mud puddle adventure, and why practicing righteousness is like practicing a musical instrument. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

If you've ever lain awake wondering, "Am I messing my kids up?"—you're in good company.   So many of us are parenting without a clear template. This is where the language of attachment can be a gift—not as a label to shame you, but as a tool to understand how you were shaped, how you're parenting now, and how Jesus can bring healing and security into the story.   In this episode, Jamie and Heather sit down with Valerie Isaacs, a licensed professional counselor supervisor, reflective consultant, and mental health trainer.   It's honest, eye-opening, grace-filled, and full of hope for every stage of the parenting journey.   Show Notes: Check out Valerie's Podcast: The Whole Person Parenting Podcast (with Valerie Isaacs)   Attachment Style Quiz   The Still Face Experiment: A powerful demonstration of how babies respond to connection and disconnection.   Understanding Attachment Styles   About Church on the Move: We are a family of churches in northeast Oklahoma. Our mission is to introduce people to the real Jesus. A lot of people know about Jesus but have yet to experience the life-changing power of His grace and truth. Knowing Jesus has transformed our lives, so our goal for each of our worship services, from our kids' environments on up, is to help people know that same love. We actively pursue Jesus in everything we do, and we believe He's given us a vision for a church that is deeply centered on Him and His word. Find more information about service times, locations, and ministries by visiting: https://churchonthemove.com

In this engaging conversation, Richard Case hosts Kyle and Leslie Keldsen, who share their life stories, including their family dynamics, personal faith journeys, and how they met and developed their relationship. The discussion highlights their experiences with faith, community, and the importance of seeking God's guidance in their lives. The Keldsens reflect on their roles as a couple and their commitment to their faith, emphasizing the significance of their journey together.We want to hear from YOU! If you would like to submit a question or comment for further discussion, please email us at: questions@abideministries.com.

Mark Wicks and Zach Thompson dive into John 8 to explore abiding in Christ, the difference between union and communion, and how we experience real freedom from slavery to sin. They also walk through Calvary's six marks of a disciple and preview the upcoming Advent series focused on longing for Jesus' return.

Brother Joe Mckee Psalms 91

Mark Wicks and Zach Thompson dive into John 8 to explore abiding in Christ, the difference between union and communion, and how we experience real freedom from slavery to sin. They also walk through Calvary's six marks of a disciple and preview the upcoming Advent series focused on longing for Jesus' return.

Modern Christianity is popular…but often hollow.Jesus offered living water, yet today many believers feel thin, fragile, emotional, and spiritually inconsistent. Why?In this powerful episode of Behind the Mike Podcast with Mike Stone, we walk boldly into one of the most important conversations happening in the Church today—how our faith culture traded depth for convenience, discipleship for consumption, and transformation for emotional experience.This message is firm, loving, and grounded in Scripture. If you've ever looked around and wondered, “How did we get here?”—this episode is for you.