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God has designed us to be relational beings who desire true friendship. But in today's society, people seem to be moving farther and farther apart from personal connections. So how can we bridge the gap? Stay with us to find the answer from God's Word! In this series, One Another, we will discover powerful truths from the New Testament and learn about God's divine plan for cultivating healthy, godly relationships.
God has designed us to be relational beings who desire true friendship. But in today's society, people seem to be moving farther and farther apart from personal connections. So how can we bridge the gap? Stay with us to find the answer from God's Word! In this series, One Another, we will discover powerful truths from the New Testament and learn about God's divine plan for cultivating healthy, godly relationships.
"I don't feel there's a conflict, but I will say, I'm pulling for the Dolphins." Zaslow started his Monday by receiving a devastating insult from a fellow Meadowlark employee, but at least it kept him from tooting his own horn like Troy Aikman. Also, did you know soccer fans expect their team to acknowledge them after the game? Well, the Inter Miami fans sure do. Today's cast: Dan, Zaslow, Chris, Jeremy, Mike, Roy, and Tony. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nikolai Stier gives us the word "Admonish" to study from Acts 20! This feels like it should be a Pokemon move...
Series: One Another PassagesService: WedType: Bible ClassSpeaker: Don Hensley
Last week, in view of our annual congregational meeting, we looked at how we may see good days as a congregation. We read from Proverbs 19:20-29 (which I already re-read today), where it tells us that we will see good days if we receive God's counsel and instruction—and I explained that the word translated instruction carries the idea of correction. Today, you might say that we are doing part two of last week's sermon. If part one was about how God uses His word to counsel and correct us. Part two is about the elders He gives to us in the church to impress that word upon us. He is so very kind to give them to each church, More specifically, He has been kind to give us a new elder, Andy Kubik, whom we ordain to this sacred office today. The scripture I have chosen is one that speaks of the work of the elders and of the high regard that you ought to have for them because of the work God has given them to do!
Title: Loving the Difficult Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 FCF: We often struggle serving in love those who are spiritually behind. Prop: Because God's will for His children is to be holy and abounding in love for one another, we must love the difficult. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to 1 Thessalonians chapter 5. In a moment we'll read from the New English Translation which you can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. Last week, Paul continued to show the Thessalonian church how they could be holy or distinct from the world. He makes the case that they should acknowledge and respect their Elders and live at peace with them and all believers. This is how they could show abounding love. Paul will now continue on this theme of being holy and abounding in love for one another. Please stand with me to give honor to and to focus on the Word of God as it is read. Invocation: Holy God, You are Love. Not simply that all that You do is loving… but that You, and all You do, are by definition, what love truly is. Your love is loyal. Your love is not fickle. It is not based on volatile emotions, but rather is a choice which You make of the counsel of Your will, to love unconditionally. But God – We are so unlovable at times. Nevertheless, You love us perfectly and faithfully. You command Your church to be like its head, Your Son, that we might love one another as Christ loved us. That is beyond us Lord. We can't do that without Your grace. Help us to see this in the text of scripture today and to lean on You for the ability to obey what You have commanded. We pray this in Jesus' name, Amen. Transition: [Slide 2] “There is no greater opportunity to influence our fellowman for Christ than to respond with love when we have been unmistakably wronged.” James Dobson “You never so touch the ocean of God's love as when you forgive and love your enemies.” Corrie Ten Boom “Whatever else love is, it is not passive.” Frederick Sampson “Love rolls up its sleeves” Robert Cook. “Show your piety by your pity.” Thomas Watson Let these words prepare your mind for the exposition of the text this morning. I.) God's will for His children is for them to be holy and abounding in their love for one another, so we must patiently love and serve languishing believers. (14) a. [Slide 3] 14 - And we urge you, brothers and sisters, i. Contrasted to Paul's previous exhortation where he asked, Paul now calls them or exhorts them to do something else. ii. This is a much stronger expression than the word “ask.” iii. Paul is issuing a clear command. iv. This is most certainly related to the command to be at peace with one another, but what is clear is that peace goes beyond simply not fighting with others. v. We see a clear put off put on principle throughout this text. vi. Certainly, we must be at peace… but we must replace war with, not just the cessation of war, but the active care for other believers. vii. And specifically, believers that are not flourishing. viii. Paul moves ahead to define how believers should treat 3 other groups of believers that are beginning to languish. And our response is different depending on each situation. b. [Slide 4] admonish the undisciplined, i. Here we see the same word that was listed as a character trait of those Paul wished to be acknowledged as Elders. ii. Admonish. iii. Again, the word means to exhort, to counsel, to correct, or to warn. iv. This shows that although Elders perform duties of care and concern for the body, it is not their job exclusively. v. All of the body of Christ is to admonish. And the whole body, is to admonish the undisciplined. vi. This word undisciplined is translated in a variety of ways in various modern translations. vii. From unruly, to disorderly, to lazy, idle, and disruptive. viii. Translations favoring idle, lazy, and disruptive understand Paul's remark here to be about the group who are unemployed by choice and who are mooching off the church. ix. There is even one non-biblical source that uses this word to speak of those who are obstinately or rebelliously idle. x. But when we look at the word by itself, it is difficult to see that that is what Paul intends to say. xi. It may very well be what he means – but Paul frames it in such a way that this could be applied to anyone who is undisciplined. xii. Since we know that Paul will address this in 2 Thessalonians, perhaps Paul leaves this intentionally broad in order to cover as many that would fit into this category as he could. xiii. So, what does this word mean? xiv. Literally it means to be out of line or out of order. xv. It means anyone who is not conforming to the standards set by the evangelists. xvi. Anyone who is intentionally operating outside the directives of the church. xvii. Because this is directed toward someone who is not living in obedience, we can probably translate the word “admonish” with a stronger force… xviii. Something like… Warn or correct. xix. It is the whole church's job to correct or warn members of the church body who are acting counter to what has been taught as godly and holy. c. [Slide 5] comfort the discouraged, i. Here we see a second way the church is to interact with another languishing Christian. ii. This indicates that there is not a one size-fits-all response to those who are languishing in the church. iii. The discouraged in our midst are those whose spirits are low. iv. They are suffering. They are hurting. v. Paul doesn't spell this out, but we can infer that this could be financial, physical, or even emotional. vi. More than likely these are people suffering due to the affliction caused by unbelieving Thessalonians. vii. We ought not admonish those who are down. At least not at first. viii. There is a sinful discouragement. One that begins to deny the teachings of the scripture. ix. But we need not start there. x. In fact, that is probably what Paul means by comforting them. xi. How else can we comfort them than through prayer, the ministry of the word, and even putting feet to our prayers. xii. We must go to them and bind them up. Cheer them up. And get their feet back on solid ground. xiii. How? xiv. The Word of truth and acts of service and love. d. [Slide 6] help the weak, i. We might wonder what the difference between weak and discouraged might be. ii. While we might see weakness here as physical weakness, and that certainly is a class of people that we should help within the church, more than likely Paul intends a moral or spiritual weakness here. iii. In other words, they are spiritually vulnerable. iv. They are baby Christians, or they are in a place that their defenses are low and they are being tempted to either doubt their faith or succumb to temptation. v. The word help means to come alongside. It means to act as a crutch. To bear them up. vi. To help in this sense, is to become a partner for them to help them gain strength to overcome doubts and temptation. vii. This is, in essence, another way of saying what Paul commands in Galatians 6 when he tells believers to bear one another's burdens. viii. We certainly don't want to bring comfort to people who are weak against temptation. They are in danger. Comfort isn't what they need. They need protection. They need spiritual strength and fortitude. They need vigilance. e. [Slide 7] be patient toward all. i. Paul points out a general response to all people. ii. All people require various degrees of patience at various times in life. iii. Not everyone is the same as you. iv. Not everyone will respond to circumstances as you do. And not everyone will bounce back the same way or in the same timing that you do. v. Paul cautions us against using ourselves as the standard of how to respond to people. vi. Instead, we should be even tempered in all circumstances and with all people. vii. In other words, the person in question and their circumstances do not determine in what temperament we respond. We live patiently with all, regardless of their circumstance. viii. Patience doesn't imply passivity. Patience doesn't imply inaction. Patience doesn't imply tolerance. ix. Rather it deals with OUR temperament and treatment of people, regardless of what situation we are dealing with. x. So, when we admonish – we do so patiently. xi. We offer patient comfort. xii. And as we help, we help patiently. xiii. This is how we can abound in love toward those believers who are languishing. f. [Slide 8] Summary of the Point: In this text, it is clear that there are several applicational statements. Rather than doing an individual sermon point on each one, I find that they are grouped in two ways in these two verses. However, what we lack in this text – is a statement of truth. What doctrinal principle is forming the foundation of all these commands Paul makes? In order to find such a principle, we must leave verses 14-15 and go back to the end of chapter 3 and the beginning of chapter 4. At the end of chapter 3, Paul prays that God would cause them to abound in love for one another. At the beginning of chapter 4 he reveals that God's will for the Thessalonians is to be holy. And this forms the doctrinal underpinnings of these commands. God desires they be holy in and abound in love toward one another. Paul gives three commands related to three groups of believers, all of whom are languishing in different ways. These commands summarize how someone can abound in Christian love and service toward those who are languishing. And he wraps it all in a neat bow by commanding that all of these responses be garnished with patience. They must, and we must, patiently admonish those who are unruly, comfort the discouraged, and help the weak. Transition: [Slide 9 (blank)] But languishing believers are not the only people who are difficult to love and serve. There is another group of people who are especially difficult to show love and to serve. And they are those who have sinned against us. II.) God's will for His children is for them to be holy and abounding in love for one another, so we must love those who have sinned against us. (15) a. [Slide 10] 15 - See that no one pays back evil for evil to anyone, i. Certainly, the law of reciprocity is found in the Old Testament. ii. Some laws indicated that there should be an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. iii. These laws are found in the civil laws governing Israel, with judges and rulers abiding and presiding over these matters. iv. But, this statement by Paul does not negate the law of the Old Testament. v. The Civil government bears the sword and is given the authority by God to punish evil doers and protect the innocent. vi. Therefore, what is being discussed here is the prohibition of personal vengeance. vii. It is not permitted within Christ's church to seek your own justice. viii. In fact, it is the responsibility of the church as a whole that they do not become vengeful people seeking retribution on their own. ix. What should they do instead? b. [Slide 11] but always pursue what is good for one another i. Rather than a strict law of vengeance and retribution, there should be a desire to do what is best and pursue what is good for everyone. ii. When a believer sins against another believer, he should be rebuked. He should be called on to repent. iii. Why? iv. Because that is good for him to be called to repentance. It is good for the body of Christ to know that sin will be rebuked. It is good for those who saw the sin committed to see him called to repentance. It is good for the one he sinned against because they know that there will be justice and mercy distributed to him. v. But the one he sinned against should be commanded to forgive as well. vi. Why? vii. Because that is good for the them. It is good for the church to see the them pushed to forgive. It is good for the body to hold the them accountable to forgive. And it is good for the one who sinned, because it gives a clear light at the end of the tunnel, promising him freedom from what he has done against his brother. viii. In every situation, God's people must pursue, they must hunt down what is good for each believer. ix. And not good by human standards. But good by God's standards. x. But what if the evil is committed against us by those outside the church. xi. What then? c. [Slide 12] and for all. i. Pursuing good is not a concept restricted to fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. ii. It should be easier with brothers and sisters in Christ. iii. But it is not restricted to them iv. The 1st century Jews had a different ethic. Although it was certainly wrong to lie to one another– they had no problem lying to gentiles. v. The Jewish mindset was to treat insiders with love and outsiders with contempt and suspicion. vi. But in the church, this should not be the case. vii. God's children are to love our enemies and pray for those who spitefully use us. Our love for other believers is greater of course. But our bottom-of-the-barrel response for the ungodly is still love. viii. Therefore, when outsiders do evil to us- we do not seek vengeance. We do not retaliate. ix. Instead, we pursue what is good for everyone. x. This does not preclude a Christian from seeking justice from civil magistrates. If someone harms you or takes something from you, you can forgive them while seeking the civil magistrate to do their God-given job in bearing the sword. xi. But even this should not be done as vengeance or retaliation, but rather as a pursuit of the sinner's good and the good of all. d. [Slide 13] Summary of the Point: So, Paul's doctrinal basis remains the same. God's will for His children is that they be holy in and abounding in their love for one another. Part of that love for one another is not allowing our brothers and sisters to seek vengeance for sins committed against them, either by other brothers or by unbelievers. Instead, we all must PURSUE or strive after God's good for everyone. Which includes rebuke, forgiveness, and being at peace. Conclusion: So, what have we learned today CBC that corrects or instructs us in what to believe and how to live? Basics of Faith and Practice: [Slide 14] Borrowing key doctrinal principles from the entire letter, Paul insists that the Thessalonians must be a people who are holy, even in the way they love each other. That they would ABOUND in love. Then Paul gives us a list of people that are difficult to love, and how to go about loving them. He lists three groups of people who are languishing in their Christian walk. Those who are living out of sync with the rules of faith and conduct the church has received. Those who are discouraged and depressed. Those who are spiritually vulnerable. These people must be loved and served, not in the same way, but with the same temperament. Patiently admonishing the unruly, comforting the discouraged, and helping the weak. Finally, Paul explores those who are harming or abusing us by sinning against us. We are to love these people by not allowing vengeance to be found in the church but rather that we pursue good for everyone… even if those who sinned against us are unbelievers. So, what does this text mean for 21st century believers? Certainly we don't have any issues with loving the difficult? 1.) [Slide 15] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that we must be holy and abound in our love for those who are difficult. a. Without a doubt, loving the lovable is a far simpler and easily more pleasant than loving those who are… less than loveable. b. Paul presents to us two kinds of people in this passage that are particularly difficult to love. c. The first are Christians who are languishing in their walk. d. The second class of people who are difficult to love are those who have sinned against us or spiritually harmed us. e. This passage very clearly and quite specifically makes it plain to us that we as believers must be holy. We must be different. f. In other contexts, the bible makes it plain that unbelievers love their children. Unbelievers love their wives. Unbelievers care for others to a certain extent. g. You probably know unbelievers who are relatively kind and perform acts of charity and service to others. h. So being loving and kind to others is not what makes the church different in our love. i. Instead, the church is different both in who we love and how we love them. j. Christ's church loves difficult people. And our love for difficult people is motivated by a pursuit of good and is clothed in patience. k. And our love for difficult people has the goal of moving them from being difficult… to being easy. l. In other words, the kind of love and service that is holy and abounding… is the kind of love and service that doesn't accept people where they are – but desires to patiently move them from difficult to easy. From languishing to flourishing. From vengeful to forgiving. m. We too must see this as our goal. 2.) [Slide 16] Refutation: “What lies must we cast down” or “What do we naturally believe, or have been taught to believe, that this passage shows is false?” We must deny that abounding love always looks the same for every person in the church. a. There is a popular book out today that speaks about the different languages of love and how we all communicate love or feel love communicated. b. The book is presented as a Christian work, but there isn't much scriptural backing to it. It is mostly the work of Psychology. Still profitable, but I wouldn't take it as bible truth. c. But one good thing the book presents is that love doesn't always look the same to everyone. d. Paul makes it clear that when we apply ourselves to love difficult people it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. e. Difficult people need different kinds of interventions if we are to serve and love them. f. But two goals should be consistent with all people difficult or easy, believers or unbelievers. We should engage them with the temperament of patience and with the pursuit of God's good. g. So, let's dive a little deeper into the interventions Paul commands. 3.) [Slide 17] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must patiently admonish the unruly. a. Generally speaking people do not learn discipline by osmosis. b. You don't go to bed one day undisciplined and wake up the next, disciplined. c. To be a disciplined person, either it must be built into you by another, or you must work at it yourself with consistency and without compromise. d. One way people remain undisciplined is in how they see the doctrinal beliefs of a church. i. Those who are constantly poking, picking, complaining, bucking, or otherwise resisting the doctrinal beliefs of a church, need to be warned and corrected. ii. This certainly goes for primary doctrines that are essential to the definition of Christianity. But even in a church where there are certain secondary doctrines that all have received… it is good to warn and correct those who continually stir up the body. iii. I think a prime example of that here at CBC might be a young earth literal 6 day creation. iv. I would consider this a secondary doctrine. It has implications on the gospel and the systematic teaching of the scriptures. But if someone rejected such a doctrine, they could certainly still be a believer. v. But in our church, I would say it is fairly unanimous, with perhaps a few outliers, that we all believe in a literal 6-day young earth creation. vi. That being said – if someone continually kept challenging that position, continually kept lobbying for our church to believe otherwise, continually spoke out about it, and continually challenged the established teachings of the church… they ought to be warned and they ought to be corrected. vii. Why? viii. Because they are being unruly. e. A person could also be unruly if they are constantly challenging the practice of the church. i. Those who are constantly complaining, picking, poking, bucking, or otherwise resisting the lifestyle practices of the church must be warned and corrected. ii. Certainly, this would apply to anything God has clearly listed as a sin. iii. A person who continues to get drunk, or forsake the assembling of the body for worship, or is pursuing a sexual relationship with someone who is not their spouse, or who lies, or any other permutation of clear sin – this person ought to be warned and corrected. And if they do not listen to this correction – they must be disciplined until they either repent or are excommunicated from the church. iv. But this could even apply to someone who is constantly rebelling against the vision, mission, and purpose of the church and the direction of the Elders. v. If the Elders have established clear biblical warrant for the direction we are headed, and the majority of the church shows their agreement by following our lead – you aren't the hero when you continue to stand in the gap and fight the direction we are going. You aren't Robin Hood. vi. When Peter stood up and said, NOT SO LORD, when Christ gave clear teaching that He would die… Jesus said get behind me Satan. vii. In a similar way, you must be warned and corrected. f. Anyone who sticks out, anyone who gets out of line… must be put back in. g. And we must do this patiently. We ought not be in a hurry to shove people back in line. We simply apply gentle pressure to nudge them until they either get back in or need to be shoved all the way out. h. Individuality in the church is not destroyed with the gospel of Jesus Christ… but we all ought to look a lot more alike than we do different. i. You know the old saying… “If you can't spot the crazy person on the bus, its you.” j. I'll modify it for you to fit the church. “If you think everyone else in the church is wrong… its actually you who is wrong.” k. Be humble, and get back in line. l. Let me use an extended illustration to explain the differences in how we love these three kind of languishing Christians. i. Imagine you are attending a marathon of a loved one. A child, a close friend, a spouse, that is running this long grueling race. ii. Now imagine, that as your loved one ran this race, you noticed that they began running the wrong way. They actually left the track and started drifting in the wrong direction from the finish line. iii. Would it be appropriate at this point to cry with them and weep for them and tell them they are doing great and to keep going? Would it be appropriate to run up to them and pull them up and run alongside them as you support their weight? iv. NO! v. What are you going to tell them? vi. You are going to yell at them, and assuming you do it patiently, you would do so without anger or malice… but you would still yell. What would you yell? vii. YOU'RE GOING THE WRONG WAY! GET BACK ON COURSE! viii. This is what is meant by admonishing the unruly. We must get them back on track. 4.) [Slide 18] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must patiently comfort the discouraged. a. But what about those who are spiritually discouraged. b. What about that those who have received affliction, persecution, or hard trials that have left them downcast and overcome with burden. c. Shall we admonish them too? d. At some point admonishment is the right response. But only when we can see that they are remaining in their discouragement because they doubt the Lord and His promises. In that case they actually move from discouraged… to unruly. e. While they remain, simply beat down and despairing… what do they need? f. They need comfort. They need encouragement. g. Comfort and encouragement necessarily produce empathy and action. h. We empathize with their pain. We are commanded actually to weep with those who weep, to mourn with those who mourn. i. Empathy is still a good term. Some in our circles attack the idea of empathy because they argue that it does not require or produce change in the person who is hurting. And they do have a point. j. But rather than casting aside empathy. I think we can keep that word, so long as we understand that true comfort and encouragement do not actually come simply because we empathized with the person who was discouraged. k. True comfort and encouragement come when we do this and then take additional action. l. When we give them the promises of God. When we meet their needs. When we meet with them and pray for them. And when we help them NOT be discouraged. m. Our goal is not for them to remain there. And that requires us to do more than merely weep with them. We must EN-courage them so they are no longer DIS-couraged. n. And we must do this patiently. It may take some time. Job's friends sat with him for 7 days before they uttered one word. They are not rebuked for this. We could learn something from that I think. i. Going back to our illustration of the marathon, let's say your loved one is on course and running the correct way… but they are crying. It looks as though they are unhappy with their performance thus far and quite upset that they are not further along. ii. Would it be appropriate to yell at them and tell them to get back on track or to run faster (as if they hadn't thought of that already)? iii. Would it be appropriate to run out to them and saddle up under their arm to try to run with them three-legged race style – even though you haven't trained for this marathon? iv. NO! v. What would you do? vi. Of course, you would cheer for them and encourage them to keep going. To look to the prize at the end. To keep fighting! o. This is what we must do with believers who are discouraged. We must cheer them on and encourage them to keep going and striving for the prize of Jesus Christ. 5.) [Slide 19] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must patiently help the spiritually weak. a. Sometimes believers are overcome with doubt or temptation. b. In doubt and temptation there is no sin – meaning there is no reason to admonish someone who is doubting their faith or struggling with temptation. c. But we also cannot afford to comfort and encourage people who are struggling with doubt and temptation. They don't need someone to weep with them as though there is nothing that can be done. d. They don't need someone to encourage them to keep going. e. They'd love nothing more than to keep going. But something has attacked them. Something has assaulted them. They are oppressed by circumstances or spiritual forces. And it has rendered them spiritually weak. f. What must we do then? g. We must protect them. We must come alongside and help them. We need to assure them of the promises and truth of God's Word and we need to hold them accountable and help them wage the war against temptation. h. And we must do this patiently, because it may take some time before they are able to stand on their own two feet again and wage the war themselves. i. But make no mistake – THAT IS OUR GOAL! j. We don't offer perpetual accountability. We offer patient accountability. Eventually believers must be strong enough to dismiss doubt and battle temptation on their own. Not because the church won't be there to help – but because we are all commanded to do this individually. We individually are commanded to submit to God, to resist the devil, to put on the full armor of God. k. So that is the goal of our help to the weak. That they might become… strong. l. Let's go back again our illustration of your loved one running a marathon. i. Now imagine they come around a bend… and you notice that they are crawling on the ground. ii. Something has clearly happened to their leg. They have fallen and they have not been able to get up. Their only option is to continue to crawl along toward the finish. iii. Would it be appropriate for you to yell at them and tell them to stand up and get back on track? iv. Would it be appropriate for you to cheer for them and tell them they are doing great and to keep going? v. NO! vi. You would go to them and lift them up to their feet. You would help them bear some of the burden of their weight until they are able to do it themselves. m. This is what we must do with believers who are spiritually weak. We must bear them up and protect them from all perils as they renew their strength. We must meet their doubts with the Word of truth. We must meet their temptations with the promises and assurance of God for His grace to help in a time of need. n. And we must patiently provide these things until they are strong enough to do this on their own. 6.) [Slide 20] De-Exhortation: “What actions should we stop doing” or “What behaviors do we naturally practice that this passage tells us to stop doing?” We must not allow brothers and sisters to seek revenge. a. Oh my friends, we must be sure to hear this one. b. We have all heard the horror stories of churches that have become cesspools of infighting and factions. c. We have all seen the destruction that cliques, and power grabs, and allegiances, and loyalties, can have on a congregation. d. Rooted in all of them is the vengeful hearts of those who aren't getting what they want. e. They've been hurt so they lash out. f. Oh they will certainly do so with pious words. They might complain of church hurt, or grave spiritual harm, or disappointment, or some other pious sounding expression which is really just their attempt to demonize the actions of another person and purify their own actions in the eyes of others. g. But hear me now. These words betray a heart that is unwilling to let love cover sin and is unwilling to forgive. h. And it must not be named among us CBC. i. If someone harms you. If I harm you. If an Elder harms you. If another believer harms you. If you are sinned against… j. Do not seek vengeance in any form. k. Don't attack their character. Don't treat them as the enemy. Don't do all that is in your power to draw attention to how you were harmed and how difficult it has been for you since being harmed. l. Chuck all that out the window. m. Why? n. Because love covers a multitude of sins. And forgiveness is not optional for God's people. o. But what if it must be addressed? What if it cannot be dismissed? 7.) [Slide 21] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must all pursue good for all. a. If they truly sinned against you, and it must be addressed, you must do so humbly, meekly, and for THEIR benefit and for the BENEFIT of the whole church. b. “Well, it would benefit the whole church if we just ran them out of here” c. NO! That is vengeance. And it will not be who we are CBC. d. We must restore. We must heal. We must love. e. “But if we truly love them, we'll let them go.” f. You've probably heard that one before… g. Lies of the devil is what that is. h. There is no letting them go. There is no writing them out of your life. There is no “dead to me” status as a Christian. i. If they are believers – you must love them like Christ loved you. And if they are not Christians then you must love them like you love yourself. j. Don't succumb to vengeance. k. Instead, we must PURSUE good. l. It is not easy and it is not natural. That is why it must be… pursued. m. We will need to chase it. Patiently. Because they might not be repentant at first. They might try to defend themselves. They might try to excuse their actions. n. Then we can seek vengeance? o. NO! p. Then we pursue God's good for EVERYONE. q. Why must we do this? r. Let's go back to our marathon illustration one last time. i. Imagine your loved one comes around the bend with a person that is on their racing team. ii. In the process of coming around the bend you see their teammate elbow them to get in front of them. iii. To your horror both of them stop running the race and start throwing punches at each other. iv. What do you do? v. You stop them both from punching each other. vi. You rebuke the one who elbowed your friend. You rebuke your friend for throwing back. vii. You tell them to focus on the race and be on the same team. s. This is what we do in situations where people sin against us. There is something bigger going on than what was done to you. The mission of the church and the Christian walk is far more important that whatever was done to you. t. So repent, forgive, and get back to the mission. 8.) [Slide 22] Comfort: “What comfort can we find here?” or “What peace does the Lord promise us in light of this passage of scripture?” Difficult people are not immediately cast out of the body of Christ. a. My friends, do you know why this is so comforting? b. Because if it wasn't true… the church would be an empty place. c. Instead, we see God's plan to love and restore difficult people to flourishing believers. We see God's plan to prevent infighting and distraction from the mission of the church. d. God knows us. He knows how petty and weak we are. e. So, He has given a church which is commanded and graced to be holy and abound in love for one another. f. What a blessing! What a blessing that when you are unruly someone is going to patiently rebuke you. g. What a blessing that when you are downcast and overwhelmed, someone is going to comfort and encourage you. h. What a blessing that when you are spiritually weak, someone is going to be your crutch and help you get through it. i. What a blessing that when you are sinned against, no one is going to let you seek vengeance. j. What a blessing that when you sin against others, you are going to be called on to repent. k. The church and the commands God gives it, are truly a blessing to us all. 9.) [Slide 23] Evangelism: “What about this text points us to Jesus Christ, the gospel, and how we are restored?” The love of Christ compels His people to treat difficult people with patience and love that neither tolerates their sin, nor leaves them in their despair or weakness. This love is completely foreign to anything the world knows. a. Our culture has a definition problem with the word love. b. People define love as tolerance and acceptance. c. But that isn't how God defines love. And that isn't how Jesus demonstrated love. d. The Love of Christ compels the church to patiently love difficult believers and unbelievers, without tolerating or approving of sin and without leaving them in despair or weakness. e. This kind of love is completely foreign to the world. And it is one of the reasons that the church is so odd and so peculiar. f. But it isn't because we are especially good people. g. It is because the gospel is especially powerful and our God is especially gracious. He has changed us. He now compels us. h. If you want to know this kind of love, both toward you and from you, you must be born again. You must be born of the Spirit. You must be given grace by God. And perhaps that is happening right now. i. Perhaps you are hearing the gospel message and something is stirring in you. Like you are alive… for the very first time. j. Is God drawing you to Himself? k. Then repent and believe on and submit to Christ. l. If you desire this today, please see an Elder before you leave. [Slide 24 (end) Let me close with a prayer from the Puritan Philip Doderidge. O Lord, let your grace and your love do for us what fear of your terrors alone cannot. Melt our hearts by that nobler principle, and teach us to despise everything that would displease you. Let our hearts respond with the same kind of compassion that motivated you, Jesus, to serve the poor. And whenever we do make mistakes, let us err on the side of compassion—a love that would never harm the worst sinner-much less the least and weakest of God's servants. We consecrate our lives to you, Lord, even to death. We will not then feel the bitterness of death half so much, when our hearts are ablaze with a zeal for your glory. We pray this in Jesus' name, Amen. Benediction: May our Lord who has laid up for you a hope in heaven where moth and rust cannot destroy, Keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. Until we meet again, go in peace.
Yesterday, a shooter opened fire at an ice skating rink in Rhode Island. We have the details and…well, let's just say they/them are starting to notice a trend. Undersecretary of State Sarah Rogers joins us today to discuss Secretary of State Marco Rubio's banger speech at the Munich Security Council. We pick her brain about all things foreign policy. GUEST: Josh Firestine | Undersecretary of State Sarah Rogers Link to today's sources: https://www.louderwithcrowder.com/sources-february-17-2026 Admonish Gerald every day! Get the Admonish shirt at Crowder Shop now! https://crowdershop.com/products/o-g-die-hard-is-a-christmas-movie-long-sleeve-copy Do not wait for another IRS letter or a frozen bank account. Call 1800 958 1000 or visit https://tnusa.com/CROWDER Download Rumble Wallet now and step away from the big banks — for good! https://rumblewallet.onelink.me/bJsX/crowder Foundation Daily is made up of premium ingredients to reduce inflammation and stress and promote clean energy and mental clarity. Subscribe now and receive 40% off for life. https://foundationdaily.com/ DOWNLOAD THE RUMBLE APP TODAY: https://rumble.com/our-apps Join Rumble Premium to watch this show every day! http://louderwithcrowder.com/Premium Get your favorite LWC gear: https://crowdershop.com/ Bite-Sized Content: https://rumble.com/c/CrowderBits Subscribe to my podcast: https://feeds.libsyn.com/576250/rss FOLLOW ME: Website: https://louderwithcrowder.com/ X: https://x.com/scrowder Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/louderwithcrowder Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevencrowderofficial Music by @Pogo
Valentine's Day has come and gone, and the unhinged users on Tik Toks were super totally okay with it, guys. The 2026 Munich Security Conference has come and gone. Secretary of State Marco Rubio knocked it out of the park while Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez went off the rails. French Antifa has committed murder. Here's all the updates. GUEST: Josh Firestine | Andrew Wilson Link to today's sources: https://www.louderwithcrowder.com/sources-february-16-2026 Admonish Gerald every day! Get the Admonish shirt at Crowder Shop now! https://crowdershop.com/products/o-g-die-hard-is-a-christmas-movie-long-sleeve-copy Let my sponsor American Financing help you regain control of your finances. Go to https://americanfinancing.net/crowder or call 800-974-6500. NMLS 182334, http://nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Go to http://kalshi.com/crowder and get a free $10 credit when you trade $10! Foundation Daily is made up of premium ingredients to reduce inflammation and stress and promote clean energy and mental clarity. Subscribe now and receive 40% off for life. https://foundationdaily.com/ DOWNLOAD THE RUMBLE APP TODAY: https://rumble.com/our-apps Join Rumble Premium to watch this show every day! http://louderwithcrowder.com/Premium Get your favorite LWC gear: https://crowdershop.com/ Bite-Sized Content: https://rumble.com/c/CrowderBits Subscribe to my podcast: https://feeds.libsyn.com/576250/rss FOLLOW ME: Website: https://louderwithcrowder.com/ X: https://x.com/scrowder Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/louderwithcrowder Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevencrowderofficial Music by @Pogo
There are Delights in Good Fellowship & Dangers in Bad Fellowship! I. The New Testament Model - The “one-anothers” 1. We are competent to counsel - Romans 15:14 • Not written to church leaders 2. We have different levels of competency - Exodus 18:13-27 • The Proverbs (father/mother) 3. *Communicating w/ one another (Words hurt/Words heal - Proverbs 12:18; 15:4; 18:21 • Proverbs 6:16-19; 15:1-2 • Matthew 5:37; 12:33-37 • Ephesians 4:15, 25-33 • Colossians 4:5-6 • James 1:19-20 • James 3:1-12 4. Bearing one another's burdens - Galatians 6:1-5 • The Context - Gal. 5:13, 15, 26 = Seeing others humbly - vv. 1-2 = Seeing ourselves honestly - vv. 3-5= Seeing our leaders gratefully - vv. 6-10 = Seeing the cross clearly - vv. 11-18
Pastor Greg continues our sermon series through 1 and 2 Thessalonians, explaining who we are meant to be as the church in Christ, and what dynamic and loving responsibilities we have both towards one another in the church and towards those outside the church.
Pastor Greg continues our sermon series through 1 and 2 Thessalonians, explaining who we are meant to be as the church in Christ, and what dynamic and loving responsibilities we have both towards one another in the church and towards those outside the church.
I. The New Testament Model - The “one-anothers”1. We are competent to counsel - Romans 15:142. Not written to church leaders1. We have different levels of competency - Exodus 18:13-272. The Proverbs (father / mother)1. Counseling in Communication2. Proverbs 6:16-193. Proverbs 15:1-24. Matthew 5:375. Matthew 12:33-376. Ephesians 4:15, 25-337. Colossians 4:5-68. James 1:19-209. James 3:1-12
คอลัมน์ “สดแต่เช้า”ปีที่5 (ตอนที่ 307) คนมีวุฒิภาวะในพระคริสต์!“พระองค์นี้แหละที่เราประกาศอยู่โดยการเตือนสติและสั่งสอนทุกคนด้วยสรรพปัญญาเพื่อว่าเราจะถวายทุกคนที่เป็นผู้ใหญ่แล้วในพระคริสต์” ~โคโลสี 1:28 (THSV11 “He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ.” ~Colossians 1:28 NIV พระคัมภีร์ในข้อนี้ สอนอะไรเราบ้าง?1️⃣.“พระองค์นี้แหละที่เราประกาศอยู่” “พระองค์”ในที่นี้ =“ พระเยซูคริสต์” “เรา”= “อาจารย์ เปาโล”และ “ทีม” “ที่(เรา)ประกาศอยู่” = “ข่าวประเสริฐ” อาจารย์เปาโลกล่าวไว้ชัดเจนว่า หัวใจของข่าวประเสริฐ ไม่ใช่ คำสอน ความเชื่อ ความคิด หรือปรัชญาของมนุษย์ที่ตีความและตั้งขึ้น แต่คือ “องค์พระคริสต์!” ผู้ทรงเป็นความหวัง ความรอด และชีวิตใหม่ ดังนั้น พันธกิจหลักของเรา จึงไม่ใช่การทำให้คน “รู้เรื่องพระคริสต์”หรือ “เก่งเรื่องศาสนา” แต่คือการทำให้คน “รู้จักพระเยซูคริสต์” และ“ดำเนินชีวิตไปกับพระองค์”2️⃣. “โดยการเตือนสติและสั่งสอนทุกคน” ภารกิจที่เราต้องทำอย่างมีสมดุล คือ 1).เตือนสติ (Admonish) •เตือนสติเมื่อเห็นคนหลงทาง ด้วยความจริง •ชี้ให้เขาเห็นบาป ที่รวมทั้งความคิดผิดและท่าทีที่ไม่ถูกต้อง •ปฏิบัติต่อเขาด้วยความรัก ไม่ใช่โดยการตำหนิ หรือเล่นงานหนักหน่วง 2).สั่งสอน (Teach) •ปลูกฝังความจริงของพระวจนะลงในชีวิตของพวกเขา •สร้างรากฐานความเชื่ออันมั่นคงให้แก่พวกเขา •ทำให้พวกเขาเข้าใจในพระประสงค์และพระทัยของพระเจ้า3️⃣. “ด้วยสรรพปัญญา” “สรรพปัญญา” ไม่ใช่เป็นเพียงแค่ความรู้ แต่คือพระปัญญาจากพระเจ้า ที่ช่วยให้เรารู้ว่า •เราควรพูดอะไร? กับใคร? ที่ไหน เวลาใด? และ วิธีใด(อย่างไร)? •เราควรตระหนักว่า แต่ละคนอาจต้องการการเตือนสติและการสอนที่แตกต่างกัน4️⃣. “เพื่อว่าเราจะถวายทุกคน…” “ถวาย” = “มอบ นำมาอยู่ต่อหน้าผู้หนึ่งผู้ใด อุทิศ จัดส่งให้” อาจารย์เปาโลมองชีวิตของผู้เชื่อว่าเป็นสิ่งที่จะต้อง “ถูกนำเสนอ”ให้เป็นดุจเครื่องบูชา ต่อพระพักตร์พระเจ้า คือช่วยให้เขาผ่านกระบวนการสร้างสาวกอย่างครบถ้วน ดังนั้นเป้าหมายที่แท้จริงของคริสตจักรจึงไม่ใช่เพียงแค่ให้คนมาโบสถ์ แต่เป็นการเตรียม ชีวิตพวกเขาให้พร้อมเป็นของถวายที่งดงามอันพึงประสงค์ของพระคริสต์5️⃣. “ที่เป็นผู้ใหญ่แล้วในพระคริสต์” คำว่า “ผู้ใหญ่”(mature / complete) หมายถึง •เติบโตเต็มวัยฝ่ายจิตวิญญาณ •มั่นคงในความเชื่อที่ถูกต้อง •ดำเนินชีวิตเหมือนพระคริสต์มากขึ้น •รับผิดชอบต่อชีวิต ความเชื่อ และการทรงเรียกของตน •ดีพร้อม •มีความรักที่สมบูรณ์แบบผู้ใหญ่ฝ่ายจิตวิญญาณ (เติบโต และไม่เป็นทารกฝ่ายวิญญาณอีกต่อไป)สรุป“งานของคริสตจักรและพันธกิจของผู้นำนั้น ไม่ใช่เพียงแค่การประกาศให้คนเชื่อ ~เป็นเหมือนแค่กิจกรรมหนึ่งทางศาสนา แต่คือการหล่อหลอมเสริมสร้างชีวิตของผู้เชื่อนั้น จนกว่าเขาจะมีวุฒิภาวะแบบพระคริสต์ ~เป็นการสร้างสาวกให้เติบโตเป็นผู้ใหญ่ในพระคริสต์! (โคโลสี 1:28 ) ดังนั้น พี่น้องที่รัก ขอให้เรา1.ยอมให้พระคริสต์ทรงทำกิจในชีวิตของเรา 2.ยอมให้พระองค์ทรงครอบครองและเติบโตขึ้น 1).ในชีวิต และ 2).ในการทำพันธกิจของเรา เพิ่มขึ้นทุกวัน 3.ยอมให้พระเจ้าทรงใช้เรานำพระคริสต์เข้าในชีวิตของคนอื่น จนกระทั่งพระองค์ครองใจพวกเขา จนหมดสิ้น ดังคำกล่าวที่ว่า “การเป็นผู้ใหญ่ฝ่ายจิตวิญญาณคือ การยอมให้พระคริสต์เติบโตขึ้นในชีวิตของเราอย่างต่อเนื่อง!” (Spiritual maturity means allowing Christ continually grow within us.) …จะดีไหมครับ?…………………………………………… ธงชัย ประดับชนานุรัตน์1กุมภาพันธ์ 2026 (ตอนที่307ปีที่5)#YoutubeCJCONNECT#คริสตจักรแห่งความรัก#Churchoflove #ShareTheLoveForward #ChurchOfJoy #คริสตจักรแห่งความสุข #NimitmaiChristianChurch #คริสตจักรนิมิตใหม่ #ฮักกัยประเทศไทย #อัลฟ่า #หนึ่งล้านความดี
Iran protests are escalating. What's happened so far and how is America involved? We'll tell you. After Renee Good's death, the Leftist narrative kicked into overdrive and the protesters found their next cause. Can the Insurrection Act come into play? We'll take a look at the Act's history and what options are open to President Trump. GUEST: Josh Firestine Link to today's sources: https://www.louderwithcrowder.com/sources-january-12-2026 Admonish Gerald any time with the Admonish shirt only at Crowder Shop! https://crowdershop.com/products/o-g-die-hard-is-a-christmas-movie-long-sleeve-copy Let my sponsor American Financing help you regain control of your finances. Go to https://americanfinancing.net/crowder or call 800-974-6500. NMLS 182334, http://nmlsconsumeraccess.org/ DOWNLOAD THE RUMBLE APP TODAY: https://rumble.com/our-apps Join Rumble Premium to watch this show every day! http://louderwithcrowder.com/Premium Get your favorite LWC gear: https://crowdershop.com/ Bite-Sized Content: https://rumble.com/c/CrowderBits Subscribe to my podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/louder-with-crowder/ FOLLOW ME: Website: https://louderwithcrowder.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/scrowder Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/louderwithcrowder Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevencrowderofficial Music by @Pogo
A protester in Minneapolis was shot by an ICE agent. The incident is all the Left needs to reignite their violent protest machine.Who was the protester? What are the precedents? We breakdown the incident and the myriad of responses from the Leftist mob. GUEST: Josh Firestine Link to today's sources: https://www.louderwithcrowder.com/sources-jaunary-8-2026 Admonish Gerald any time with the Admonish shirt only at Crowder Shop! https://crowdershop.com/products/o-g-die-hard-is-a-christmas-movie-long-sleeve-copy Let my sponsor True Gold Republic help you safeguard your retirement with physical gold and silver. Go to http://lwcgold.com/ or call 800-628-4653. Sign up or call them today and see if you qualify for a 'No Fees For Life IRA'. DOWNLOAD THE RUMBLE APP TODAY: https://rumble.com/our-apps Join Rumble Premium to watch this show every day! http://louderwithcrowder.com/Premium Get your favorite LWC gear: https://crowdershop.com/ Bite-Sized Content: https://rumble.com/c/CrowderBits Subscribe to my podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/louder-with-crowder/ FOLLOW ME: Website: https://louderwithcrowder.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/scrowder Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/louderwithcrowder Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevencrowderofficial Music by @Pogo
Happy New Year! Welcome back! It's a good thing no big stories broke while we were away…oh. Oh, my. In the wake of the Somali fraud, Tim Walz is no longer seeking reelection to Minnesota's governor's seat. President Donald Trump swept into and out of Venezuela. What did we accomplish? What's coming next? What does it all mean? Nicolas Maduro is now in custody in New York City. No gwar. GUEST: Josh Firestine Link to today's sources: https://www.louderwithcrowder.com/sources-january-7-2026 Get the Admonish shirt at Crowder Shop now! https://crowdershop.com/products/o-g-die-hard-is-a-christmas-movie-long-sleeve-copy Let my sponsor American Financing help you regain control of your finances. Go to https://americanfinancing.net/crowder or call 800-974-6500. NMLS 182334, http://nmlsconsumeraccess.org/ DOWNLOAD THE RUMBLE APP TODAY: https://rumble.com/our-apps Join Rumble Premium to watch this show every day! http://louderwithcrowder.com/Premium Get your favorite LWC gear: https://crowdershop.com/ Bite-Sized Content: https://rumble.com/c/CrowderBits Subscribe to my podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/louder-with-crowder/ FOLLOW ME: Website: https://louderwithcrowder.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/scrowder Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/louderwithcrowder Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevencrowderofficial Music by @Pogo
Grassroots precinct chairs led by Cameron Campbell, aka Coach Cam, delivered a historic rebuke to Houston Mayor John Whitmire, proving Democratic values still matter when enforced from the ground up.Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://politicsdoneright.com/newsletterPurchase our Books: As I See It: https://amzn.to/3XpvW5o How To Make AmericaUtopia: https://amzn.to/3VKVFnG It's Worth It: https://amzn.to/3VFByXP Lose Weight And BeFit Now: https://amzn.to/3xiQK3K Tribulations of anAfro-Latino Caribbean man: https://amzn.to/4c09rbE
Message by Pastor Paul - November 23, 2025 Apologetics, Debate, Bible Discussions, Evangelism, and much moreTo know more on how to be saved, what are the requirements and such, please see our playlist on the Gospel and Eternal Security (assurance of salvation) - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3pJdCnnwrEeCQOCTTmDW1GjUYxpd44DG&si=_rT-lThl0klHt5Cd A Bible study on personal works and fruit bearing -"The mystic fruit bowl" Mark 7:5-23 - https://youtu.be/kw7QiLQMQ_M?si=eSOYcF1Ffco6-inI (Discussing discipleship) Bible study on Luke 9:60-62 "Let the dead bury the dead" - https://www.youtube.com/live/BkWtkOrEs-Q?si=y-zyqNGfWi3kzVu2 Our Ministries Website - https://christiancoffeetime.ca/ 1John 5:20) "And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life."-Music: A Flourish by Niya is licensed under a Creative Commons License.https://creativecommons.org/licenses/...Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM-
Fr. Allen Hoffa joins Patrick to discuss Spiritual Works of Mercy (4:51) what are the Spiritual Works of Mercy? Admonish the Sinner (16:29) Instruct the Ignorant (22:31) Break 1 Mary Ann - I have a granddaughter who just gave up her faith. I love her so much. How to approach this? How do I admonish the sinner? (28:31) Adam - If a person you're close to doesn't know that not going to Mass is a sin, is it your duty to inform them so they know so they are culpable? (39:32) Break 2 How do we forgive injuries of people who have really hurt us? (45:10) Carolyn - My son died by suicide. It's been painful knowing he suffered from mental illness. He was a God-fearing man.
Admonish the idle… Encourage the fainthearted… Help the weak… Be patient with all... Teacher - Scott Kenworthy
Christ-Centered Relationships are Key to Spiritual Formation... I. Seek to Admonish not Shame Others! (14-15) II. Offer both Example and Instruction! (16-17) III. Tailor Your Posture to their Response! (18-21) Practical Implications o Where do you tend to use guilt/shame as motivators? o What can you invite others to observe to help them imitate? o Do you tend to err on the side of discipline or grace?
Revelation Dates: August 1836 – April 1838 Revelation Places: Salem, Massachusetts; Kirtland, Ohio; Farr West, Missouri Section 111 - Historical Background: In the summer of 1836, a member from Massachusetts by the name of Jonathan Burgess, came to Joseph regarding a sister member in Salem, Massachusetts who was now deceased. He explained that prior to her death she intended to give the church a large treasure of gold and silver which was stored in her basement. Seemingly true, Joseph knew this treasure would be a great blessing to help pay the significant debts taken on by the church for the building of the temple and assisting the saints in Zion. As Joseph, Hyrum, Sidney and Oliver left Kirtland on their mission to the Northeast, they stopped in Salem. Upon arrival they met with brother Burgess, but the sister's home (and treasure) could not be found due to the tremendous changes in the growth of the city. Meanwhile, back in Zion the saints who had been driven from Jackson County were settling in Clay County. Now, they were asked to leave that county also. Amidst all this turmoil, many of the church leadership were away on this missionary effort, and Joseph received the following revelation. Recap: The Lord is pleased with their journey, despite their folly (for the treasure). Don't be concerned about the debts of the church, for the Lord will give the saints power to cover these debts. Continue the missionary work in Salem and the vicinity. Section 112 - Historical Background: As it often occurs, following marvelous and beautiful spiritual manifestations, come equally spectacular evil doings, hardships and tribulation. The saints had experienced magnificent spiritual visions and wonders at the dedication of the Kirtland temple, but were now experiencing unprecedented mobs and persecution. Little did they know the Lord was about to manifest significant sifting in the church, including its leadership. The year following the temple dedication saw a spirit of apostasy sweep through the church. In the midst of this, the Lord opened England as a focus for missionary work, which became incredibly successful. It had been nearly a year since the Lord had given Joseph a direct revelation. The Lord directs this to the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve (Thomas B Marsh is Quorum President). Recap: Thomas B Marsh was troubled, prayerfully seeking repentance, which was granted. Now, he must remain faithful and preach the gospel. The Lord knows his heart and he must refrain from being partial towards the brethren. Admonish the 12 Apostles for their sins, who must humble themselves, soften their hearts and repent. Marsh holds the keys to administer over the twelve. A day of desolation and lamentation will cover the earth, beginning in the church. Go with the twelve into the world and preach the Lord's gospel. Stay faithful. Section 113 - Historical Background: 1837 and 1838 were the saddest years in the church up to this time, with rampant apostasy and threatening murders. Armed mobs pursued Joseph constantly. In one day, Joseph was arrested, released and arrested again 6 times. Fleeing for their lives, the saints abandoned their homes and escaped into the western frontier, settling temporarily in Farr West Missouri. Upon his arrival, Joseph was asked several questions by the brethren concerning the book of Isaiah. This revelation is one of three sections in the Doctrine and Covenants that deal with scriptural interpretation (see also sections 74 and 77). Recap: Isaiah Ch 11: The Stem of Jesse is Jesus Christ; the Rod of Jesse describes Joseph Smith as a resurrected being; the Root of Jesse describes Joseph Smith in mortality; Ch 52: The strength of Zion is the Priesthood; To loosen the bands of her neck is in reference to scattered Israel and releasing the curse upon the Jews. Section 114 - Historical Background: This revelation relates primarily to David W Patton. In 1835 Patton was ordained to be an apostle and was always faithful to Joseph and obedient to God. In this revelation, David W Patton is called on a mission. Note: In October, 1838, while defending the church against an angry mob at Crooked River, Apostle David W. Patton was killed, thus becoming the first martyred “Prophet, Seer and Revelator” in the last days. Recap: David W. Patton to settle his affairs and go into the mission field to preach the gospel. Those who hold church positions that are unfaithful will be replaced.
Organization: Mount Hope Christian Church Campus: Burlington | Belmont
Organization: Mount Hope Christian Church Campus: Burlington | Belmont
Organization: Mount Hope Christian Church Campus: Burlington | Belmont
The natural result of an abundance of God's Word in my life is the pouring over of that Word into the lives of others around me.
Rick Vogt facilitates a discussion on admonishing one another with Katie Bonner and Gabe Harris
Our culture generally doesn't align with what the Bible teaches us. Many people in our current culture believe that supporting those around us means supporting every choice that somebody makes, whether it's a good one or a bad one. But the Bible tells us that we should call each other out as brothers and sisters in Christ. When you see your friends doing sinful or harmful things you should lovingly help them get out of that sin. Today Pastor Ricky is going to encourage you to keep your friends accountable.
Are you sitting idle in your walk with God? The Bible's definition of idle might not be as obvious as it seems. Being idle in God's view doesn't mean sitting still and doing nothing. It also isn't a competition to see who can be the busiest or the best at what they do. You can be distracting yourself with social media, video games, or anything else. What you're involved in should reflect what God has put in your heart. Today Pastor Ricky is going to teach us what it means to be idle in the view of God.
Welcome to our 11th Command series were we learn to better love one another. Thanks for joining us.
Finding Jesus in Unexpected Places // Stopping a Jesus Parade Mark 10:46-52 (NIV)“Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (which means ‘son of Timaeus'), was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!' Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!' Jesus stopped and said, ‘Call him.' So they called to the blind man, ‘Cheer up! On your feet! He's calling you.' Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus. ‘What do you want me to do for you?' Jesus asked him. The blind man said, ‘Rabbi, I want to see.' ‘Go,' said Jesus, ‘your faith has healed you.' Immediately, he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.” Luke 4:16-21 (NIV)“He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: ‘The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.' Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. He began by saying to them, ‘Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.'" The 59 “One Another's” of the New Testament1. “...Be at peace with each other.” (Mark 9:50) 2. “...Wash one another's feet.” (John 13:14) (Serve one another)3. “...Love one another...” (John 13:34) 4. “...Love one another...” (John 13:34)5. “...Love one another...” (John 13:35) 6. “...Love one another...” (John 15:12) 7. “...Love one another” (John 15:17)8. “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love...” (Romans 12:10) 9. “...Honor one another above yourselves.” (Romans 12:10)10. “Live in harmony with one another...” (Romans 12:16) 11. “...Love one another...” (Romans 13:8) 12. “...Stop passing judgment on one another.” (Romans 14:13) 13. “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you...” (Romans 15:7) 14. “...Instruct one another.” (Romans 15:14) 15. “Greet one another with a holy kiss...” (Romans 16:16) 16. “...When you come together to eat, wait for each other.” (I Cor. 11:33) 17. “...Have equal concern for each other.” (I Corinthians 12:25) 18. “...Greet one another with a holy kiss.” (I Corinthians 16:20) 19. “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” (II Corinthians 13:12) 20. “...Serve one another in love.” (Galatians 5:13) 21. “If you keep on biting and devouring each other...you will be destroyed by each other.” (Galatians 5:15) 22. “Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” (Galatians 5:26) 23. “Carry each other's burdens...” (Galatians 6:2) 24. “...Be patient, bearing with one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:2) 25. “Be kind and compassionate to one another...” (Ephesians 4:32) 26. “...Forgiving each other...” (Ephesians 4:32) 27. “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs.” (Ephesians 5:19) 28. “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” (Ephesians 5:21) 29. “...In humility consider others better than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3)30. “Do not lie to each other...” (Colossians 3:9) 31. “Bear with each other...” (Colossians 3:13) 32. “...Forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.” (Colossians 3:13) 33. “Teach...[one another]” (Colossians 3:16) 34. “...Admonish one another” (Colossians 3:16) 35. “...Make your love increase and overflow for each other.” (I Thessalonians 3:12) 36. “...Love each other.” (I Thessalonians 4:9) 37. “...Encourage each other...” (I Thessalonians 4:18) 38. “...Encourage each other...” I Thessalonians 5:11) 39. “...Build each other up...” (I Thessalonians 5:11) 40. “Encourage one another daily...” Hebrews 3:13) 41. “...Spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24) 42. “...Encourage one another.” (Hebrews 10:25) 43. “...Do not slander one another.” (James 4:11) 44. “Don't grumble against each other...” (James 5:9) 45. “Confess your sins to each other...” (James 5:16) 46. “...Pray for each other.” (James 5:16) 47. “...Love one another deeply, from the heart.” (I Peter 3:8) 48. “...Live in harmony with one another...” (I Peter 3:8) 49. “...Love each other deeply...” (I Peter 4:8) 50. “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” (I Peter 4:9) 51. “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others...” (I Peter 4:10) 52.  ...
rwh10may Ep.363 – Run With Horses Podcast – A Growth Mindset for Disciple Makers Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith 1. The Growth Mindset in a Christian Context Paul challenged believers to put effort into their spiritual life. Change is a part of growth and we should desire to be more like Jesus. A Christian is filled with the Holy Spirit who is working to make us like Jesus. Change will happen. The joy is that we can embrace it and benefit from working with God instead of against Him. A growth-minded believer: Welcomes challenges as opportunities for sanctification (James 1:2–4 NKJV). Perseveres under trial, knowing endurance produces spiritual maturity (Romans 5:3–5 NKJV). Seeks feedback and correction, recognizing rebuke refines faith (Proverbs 27:17 NKJV; Proverbs 12:1 NKJV). Celebrates others' growth, rejoicing when fellow believers flourish (Romans 12:15 NKJV). 2. Discipleship and the Great Commission Jesus' charge to “make disciples” frames our growth-oriented calling: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” —Matthew 28:19–20 (NKJV) A growth mindset fuels the “teaching” phase: we believe learners can grow in knowledge, obedience, and Christ-likeness. It also shapes our own approach, as we accept that our skills in evangelism, teaching, and mentoring improve through practice, prayer, and reliance on God. 3. Spiritual Growth is a Process Scripture depicts growth as a journey: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” —2 Peter 3:18 (NKJV) “Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection…” —Hebrews 6:1 (NKJV) “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 3:14 (NKJV) These passages underscore that maturity takes intentional effort—exactly the outworking of a growth mindset in the spiritual realm. 4. The “One Another's” and Growth Mindset Command Scripture (NKJV) Growth-Mindset Connection Love one another John 13:34–35 Encourages perseverance in relationships even when hard. Serve one another Galatians 5:13 Builds humility and stewards gifts for others' growth. Encourage one another 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Puts others first. Admonish one another Colossians 3:16; Romans 15:14 Welcomes correction for mutual sanctification. Bear one another's burdens Galatians 6:2 Cultivates perseverance and compassion. Spur one another on Hebrews 10:24 Motivates toward good deeds and spiritual progress. Pray for one another James 5:16 Invites God's transforming power in growth. Be kind and tenderhearted Ephesians 4:32 Gives mercy to those who need it, we all do! Together, these “one another's” form the relational soil in which a growth mindset flourishes—each believer both a learner and a teacher, giving and receiving grace, correction, encouragement, and accountability. 5. Practical Implications for Disciple Makers Model a growth mindset by sharing your own struggles and progress in Bible study, prayer, or ministry skills. Set incremental goals for disciples (e.g., memorizing Scripture, leading a small group), celebrating small wins to build confidence (Zechariah 4:10 NKJV). Cultivate “one another” rhythms in your church—regular accountability groups, prayer partnerships, and service teams. Teach the biblical process of growth—explain that sanctification involves trials, correction, and perseverance, rooted in passages like James 1:2–4 (NKJV) and Hebrews 12:11 (NKJV). Encourage reflection—have disciples journal progress, confess weaknesses, and plan next steps, reinforcing that effort and dependence on Christ yield transformation. **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2** The Holy Spirit reshapes how we think about challenges, our own abilities, and the process of sanctification. 1. Confess Fixed-Mindset Thinking and Renew Your Mind “I can't change,” “I can't do that.” and the like are big hinderances to spiritual growth. Lies need to be brought into the light and exchanged for truth. The question should be, “What is God doing? What does HE want me to do?” God empowers His people for His work. “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” —Romans 12:2 (NKJV) Practice: Keep a “mindset journal.” When you catch yourself thinking “I'll never grow in this,” write it down and pray: “Lord, show me Your truth here.” Replace it with a Scriptural affirmation (“I can grow by God's grace”—Philippians 4:13). 2. Meditate on God's Word Daily A growth mindset flourishes when immersed in truth. Scripture both reveals God's power to change us and gives the roadmap. Read, Think Deeply about,and put it into practice. “…but his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night.” —Psalm 1:2 (NKJV) Practice: Start with 5–10 minutes each morning reading a short passage (e.g. one chapter of Proverbs or the Gospels). Ask: “What does this teach me about God's promise to strengthen me?” 3. Pray for Wisdom and Perseverance Growth requires divine enablement—both insight and the grit to keep going. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally…” —James 1:5 (NKJV) “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” —James 1:2–3 (NKJV) Practice: Begin each day by asking God for wisdom to see opportunities for growth and the patience to endure them. When trials come (at work, in relationships, in ministry), thank Him for the refining work He intends. 4. Engage in Christian Community Even if attendance has been spotty, intentional fellowship is vital for encouragement, accountability, and skill development. “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another…” —Hebrews 10:24–25 (NKJV) “As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” —Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) Practice: Commit to attending at least one fellowship gathering (Sunday service, small group, men's/women's Bible study). Ask a mature believer to meet monthly as a “growth partner” for prayer and feedback. 5. Set Small, Measurable Goals for Spiritual Disciplines SMART goals Growth rarely happens overnight. Incremental victories build confidence that God can grow you further. “For who has despised the day of small things?…” —Zechariah 4:10 (NKJV) Practice: Choose one discipline (e.g., Scripture memory, daily prayer journaling, service) and set a tiny goal: memorize one verse a week, pray five minutes daily, serve once a month. Celebrate each completion by recording it in your journal and thanking God. 6. Welcome Correction and Feedback A growth mindset leans into rebuke, knowing it produces maturity. “The ear that hears the rebukes of life Will abide among the wise.” —Proverbs 15:31 (NKJV) “But exhort one another daily, while it is called ‘Today,' lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” —Hebrews 3:13 (NKJV) Practice: Invite a trusted mentor or friend to give you honest feedback on your spiritual habits. When you receive correction, respond with “Thank you—help me understand how to improve.” 7. Practice Gratitude and Celebrate Others' Growth Focusing on progress—both yours and others'—reinforces a mindset that abilities can expand. “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” —Romans 12:15 (NKJV) “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” —1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV) Practice: Keep a “gratitude list” of spiritual wins you see in yourself and others. Send a quick note or text to encourage a fellow believer when they share a breakthrough. 8. Rely on God's Strength in Weakness A growth mindset isn't self-reliance; it's dependence on Christ, who is at work in us. “…when I am weak, then I am strong.” —2 Corinthians 12:10 (NKJV) Practice: In moments of discouragement (“I failed again…”), confess your weakness and ask Christ to work through it. Memorize 2 Corinthians 12:9–10 and speak it aloud whenever you feel stuck. **(5:00 – 1:00)** Doctrine Today Jesus and His Present Ministry The Holy Spirit's Role in Disciple Making. Dispensational Baptist view of the End Times Understanding Theology is Important The Gospel and Ongoing Disciple Making Church Role in Discerning God's Will Barriers to Disciple Making Spiritual Warfare Jesus – Incarnation God's Sovereignty God's sovereignty means that God reigns over all things with perfect wisdom, power, and love, and nothing in our lives is outside His control. 1. God's Sovereignty Brings Peace in Uncertainty When life feels chaotic or unjust, God's sovereignty assures us that nothing happens apart from His knowledge or plan. “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, And His kingdom rules over all.” —Psalm 103:19 (NKJV) “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” —Romans 8:28 (NKJV) Why it matters: Even suffering and confusion have purpose under God's rule. He's not reacting—He's reigning. 2. God's Sovereignty Fuels Evangelism and Disciple-Making Because God is sovereign over salvation, we can evangelize boldly, knowing He draws hearts to Himself. “All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” —John 6:37 (NKJV) “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him…” —John 6:44 (NKJV) Why it matters: The results of disciple-making aren't on your shoulders. You sow and water; God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6–7 NKJV). 3. God's Sovereignty Grounds Our Identity and Purpose You are not random. You are created, saved, and called intentionally. “Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them.” —Psalm 139:16 (NKJV) “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” —Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV) Why it matters: Your life, your calling, and even your challenges are part of God's good and sovereign plan. 4. God's Sovereignty Produces Worship and Humility When we recognize God is in control and we are not, we bow in awe and dependence. “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, The power and the glory, The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, And You are exalted as head over all.” —1 Chronicles 29:11 (NKJV) “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. —Isaiah 55:8 (NKJV) Why it matters: Sovereignty reminds us that God is God—and we are not. 5. God's Sovereignty Guarantees His Promises Will Stand We can believe God's Word with full assurance because no power can thwart His will. “Indeed before the day was, I am He; And there is no one who can deliver out of My hand; I work, and who will reverse it?” —Isaiah 43:13 (NKJV) “The counsel of the Lord stands forever, The plans of His heart to all generations.” —Psalm 33:11 (NKJV) Why it matters: Our eternal hope is secure because it rests in God's unshakable rule. **(1:00)** It's important for all of us to see the big picture in life. God IS working and He WILL complete His work in you. Daily remind yourself that God is drawing you to Himself and He invites you to be an active participant in your spiritual growth. Reject the lie that you can't change. See the person God wants you to be and put real effort into doing your part, trusting that God will always do His part. – “Thank you for listening today! -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Don't be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." **(00:00)**
Whose responsibility is it to teach in the local church? Because Jesus is our great high priest, all Christians are called to "teach and admonish one another" (Colossians 3:16). In this sermon, we explore what it looks like to live out this command in the ordinary life of a local church community.
Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for March 18, 2025 is: admonish ad-MAH-nish verb To admonish someone is to express warning or disapproval towards them, or to urge them to do something. // We were admonished for arriving late to the meeting. // They were admonished to take advantage of the opportunity. See the entry > Examples: "My parents admonished me and my siblings to stay away from the windows." — Jelani Cobb, The New Yorker, 16 Mar. 2023 Did you know? We won't admonish you if you don't know the origins of admonish. This word, along with its archaic synonym monish, likely traces back to the Latin verb monēre, meaning "to bring to the notice of," "to remind," and "to warn." Among monēre's other English descendants are monitor, premonition, monument, and (gulp) monster. Admonishing someone (for, say, being late) hardly risks being labeled a monster, however. While a word like rebuke suggests sternness and severity, admonish usually suggests friendly, gentle, or earnest criticizing done in the spirit of counselling and instructing.
Bro. Danny Corprew Colossians 3:16 Sunday School March 9, 2025
Sounding "retreat!" How to admonish the sinner? Praying for deceased non-Catholics? Sending one's Guardian Angel to Mass? Can saints in heaven help souls in purgatory? Balancing fear of God and trust in God? Nov.5 election: A God-given reprieve. It is time for us to do what we should have done before: oppose the evils of abortion and perversion with all our energy and all our resources. Proclaim the Kingship of Christ! This episode was recorded on 11/12/2023. Our Links: http://linkwcb.com/ Please consider making a monetary donation to What Catholics Believe. Father Jenkins remembers all of our benefactors in general during his daily Mass, and he also offers one Mass on the first Sunday of every month specially for all supporters of What Catholics Believe. May God bless you for your generosity! https://www.wcbohio.com/donate Subscribe to our other YouTube channels: @WCBHolyMassLivestream @WCBHighlights May God bless you all!
Romans 15:14
Friends, we all strive to be spiritually great. We want to be magnanimous, great-souled men and women. But how do we get there? The Church offers a concrete seven-fold path, and that's what Brandon Vogt and I discuss on today's “Word on Fire Show” episode. A listener asks, I'm coming back into the Church after a 15 year absence, and all the words [of Mass] have changed. What happened? 00:00 | Intro 00:55 | Bishop Barron's California recap 02:18 | How spiritual works of mercy relate to corporal works of mercy 05:08 | Why loving others includes meeting spiritual needs 05:44 | 1) Admonish the sinner 08:24 | 2) Instruct the ignorant 10:17 | 3) Counsel the doubtful 13:32 | 4) Comfort the sorrowful 15:54 | 5) Bear wrongs patiently 19:00 | 6) Forgive all injuries 22:18 | 7) Pray for the living and the dead 26:18 | Listener question 28:32 | New book—Ethics for Beginners by Peter Kreeft Links Ethics for Beginners by Peter Kreeft NOTE: Do you like this podcast? Become a patron and get some great perks for helping, like free books, bonus content, and more. Word on Fire is a non-profit ministry that depends on the support of our listeners…like you! So be part of this mission, and join us today!