Podcasts about Apollos

In All Things Take Time to Grow, we’re reminded that God’s timing is always perfect—even when it feels slow to us. Drawing lessons from the towering California redwoods and the patience of farmers, this devotional encourages believers to trust the Master Gardener as He works in our lives. Using Scripture from Habakkuk 2:3, 1 Corinthians 3:6, and Galatians 6:9, it challenges us to remain faithful, patient, and confident that the harvest will come in His appointed time. ✨ Highlights Why growth in God’s timing is never truly slow, even when it feels delayed Lessons from California redwoods and the patience required for deep spiritual roots The danger of prematurely harvesting blessings before God’s appointed season Encouragement from Habakkuk 2:3 and Galatians 6:9 to persevere in faith Remembering that God gives the growth, not our own striving

Tuesday, 12 August 2025   But Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand. Matthew 12:25   “And Jesus, having known their thoughts, He said to them, ‘Every kingdom, having divided against itself, it desolates, and every city or house having divided against itself, not it will stand'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus was accused by the Pharisees of casting out demons by Beelzebul. This was obviously done quietly among themselves or towards the crowds without Jesus directly hearing it because Matthew next records, “And Jesus, having known their thoughts.”   Jesus perceived their thoughts even though He was not openly privy to their conversation. It is a trait that belongs to God –   “I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings.” Jeremiah 17:10   In knowing what they were thinking, He responds to their accusations, as recorded by Matthew, “He said to them, ‘Every kingdom, having divided against itself, it desolates.'”   There are two new words. The first is merizó, to apportion. As such, in this context, it signifies to divide one part from another. The second is erémoó, to desolate or make waste. If a kingdom is united, it will be alive and thriving, but when it is divided, it will become like a ruined wilderness where nothing productive takes place.   The sly accusation of the Pharisees does not hold water because it stands against simple logic. Jesus next provides a second example to solidify this truth, saying, “and every city or house having divided against itself, not it will stand.”   This is an example that would have been obvious to even someone as observantly dull about the world around them as the Pharisees. They may have been so stuck in their legalism that they never lifted their eyes to see how the normal world works, but Scripture and history would tell them that a city that did not possess the same goals and spirit of unity could not stand –   “And the house of Joseph also went up against Bethel, and the Lord was with them. 23 So the house of Joseph sent men to spy out Bethel. (The name of the city was formerly Luz.) 24 And when the spies saw a man coming out of the city, they said to him, ‘Please show us the entrance to the city, and we will show you mercy.' 25 So he showed them the entrance to the city, and they struck the city with the edge of the sword; but they let the man and all his family go. 26 And the man went to the land of the Hittites, built a city, and called its name Luz, which is its name to this day.” Judges 1:22-26   A single man not in step with the rest of the city brought the city to destruction. Evidence of such division makes the accusation of the Pharisees completely untenable.   Life application: Paul spends most of his time in the book of 1 Corinthians writing against divisions within the church. He does this because of the very precept Jesus highlights in this verse. The church at Corinth had many divisions of various types. If this problem were not corrected, the church could not stand.   His letter is a warning and admonition to churches throughout the age. Unless there is unity within the church, little divisions will lead to a total division of the congregation or even a total collapse of the church.   People have many pet peeves that drive their choice of church attendance. Generally, doctrine is not first and foremost on people's minds. Some people want comfortable chairs. Some want a church where food is served. Some look for a certain type of entertainment.   When these types of things are one's priority for church attendance, it is a rather shallow foundation on which continued attendance can be expected. With a simple change in the direction of the music, some will protest. If their protest isn't catered to, there will be disharmony. Depending on the size of the church, it can cause a split, or it may just cause those who are disenchanted to find another church.   As silly as this seems, it is as common as chicken meals at KFC. Churches, first and foremost, are intended to analyze and instruct in the word, which explains God and His redemptive plans for man through Jesus Christ. Once this main reason for gathering loses priority, there is no longer a sound footing for the church to continue without division.   Hold fast to the word, honor God through Jesus, and be ready to restore harmony within the church when it is called for. Jesus spoke about division and its consequences. Paul then set the example for us in his letters. We should do our best to emulate his instruction.   “Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 11 For it has been declared to me concerning you, my brethren, by those of Chloe's household, that there are contentions among you. 12 Now I say this, that each of you says, ‘I am of Paul,' or ‘I am of Apollos,' or ‘I am of Cephas,' or ‘I am of Christ.' 13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?” 1 Corinthians 1:10-13   Lord God, may we stand united in our devotion to You and to growing in You through a proper evaluation and right understanding of Your word. Help us in this, O God, so that we may be mature in our thinking, always placing You first in our hearts and lives. Amen.

At our Retro Praise Service, Pastor Femi Paul brought us this powerful message he entitled GREATLY HELPED, drawing from Acts 18:27. He highlighted the story of Apollos, whose arrival in Achaia brought tremendous help to the believers through God's grace. This was not just assistance in passing, it was divinely empowered, life-changing help that strengthened faith and advanced the gospel. PFP emphasised that when God sends help, it is both timely and effective, producing undeniable results in the lives of those who receive it. The message carried a strong prophetic tone, with Pastor Femi declaring that our God-sent helpers will not be hindered, delayed, or ambushed by the enemy. They will arrive with good news, bringing the exact support we need in this season. He led the church in praying our helpers will arrive soon, very soon and that their arrival will mark a turning point of grace, breakthrough, and fulfilment of divine promises.

Pastor Cana's summer sermon series continues with Acts 18:24-27, which describes Apollos enthusiastically teaching of Jesus in the synagogue, though with inaccuracies. Priscilla and Aquila gently and privately correct him, and he goes on to Achaia. God gifts us with enthusiasm, and we can love our neighbors by encouraging each other's passions.

1 Corinthians 4:1–5 (NLT) — “So look at Apollos and me as mere servants of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God's mysteries.”   In today's devotion, Pastor David Sumrall shows us the Apostle Paul's heart as he faced comparison, criticism, and judgment from others in Corinth. Paul reminds the believers not to see ministers as celebrities, but as faithful servants of Christ entrusted with spiritual responsibility. He teaches that what truly matters is not public opinion or even our own self-evaluation, but God's judgment—because only God sees our true motives and hearts. Pastor David encourages every pastor and believer: stop keeping your happiness in someone else's head. Keep your conscience clear, stay faithful to what God has called you to do, and remember—what matters most is what the Lord thinks, not people's praise or criticism. Watch today's devotion and be reminded that your identity and worth are rooted in God's purpose, not in public approval. ---- Discover fundamental truths and the power of Scripture with Pastor David E. Sumrall on Daily Devotions. Pastor Sumrall serves as the Undershepherd of the Cathedral of Praise, a Christian church dedicated to Jesus and His Word, with campuses across Metro Manila and Don't forget to like, subscribe to Cathedral of Praise TV https://www.youtube.com/c/cathedralofpraiseTV/?sub_confirmation=1,and hit the bell icon 

Series: First Love Living | Making our house a First-Love Home  | August 3, 2025Before Ephesus lost their first love – they HAD a small but mighty church that was changing the world.  Ephesus was the gateway between Asia & Europe, along with being the guardian of the temple of Artemus (Diana – Wonder woman!), and hosted one of the greatest libraries of the First Century.  It was a city that had a higher percentage of literate people than almost every other city in the world.  It garnered wealth and influence and shared it through the thousands who passed through.  And even though the Christian community was small, it celebrated some of the greatest leaders and teachers of the new Christian era – Paul, Timothy, the Apostle John, Priscilla & Aquila, Apollos, and more!   Of all the churches of the first century, it's the church MANY of us pastors & leaders aspire to become. This summer, we'll dig into the Scriptures regarding Ephesus, and especially the letter Paul wrote to it, gleaning from the story how to grow and keep a “First Love Life” with God.

Titus 3Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, 2 to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people. 3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. 4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8 The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people. 9 But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. 10 As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, 11 knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned. 12 When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. 13 Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing. 14 And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful. 15 All who are with me send greetings to you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.

03.08.2025//Acts 18:18-28 Priscilla, Aquila, Apollos//Church Hill//Justin Moffatt by Church Hill Anglican

Der Bibeltext Apostelgeschichte 18,23-19,7 – ausgelegt von Anna Maria Bosch. (Autor: Anna Maria Bosch)

Altars, Not Platforms The Ministry of the Ordinary 8.3.25 God isn't asking you to be famous, he's asking you to be faithful. God isn't calling you to build a platform, he's calling you to surrender. Acts 18:1-3 After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. 2 There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, 3 and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them. Acts 18:18-19 Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sisters and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchreae because of a vow he had taken. 19 They arrived at Ephesus, where Paul left Priscilla and Aquila. He himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews. Acts 18:24-26 Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25 He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. 26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. God's kingdom moves forward when ordinary, everyday people surrender what they have to God through the power of the Holy Spirit. Acts 4:13 When they (the Jewish rulers, elders, & teachers of the law) saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. Philippians 3:7-11 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Philippians 3:10-11 (New Revised American Dream Version) I want to know Christ – yes, but not so much that it interrupts my current life or plans. I want to participate in the sufferings of Christ, but I would like those sufferings to be limited to things I can fully manage and comprehend. And yes, I would like to become like Christ in his death, but I would prefer to experience resurrection without crucifixion if possible. Perhaps the greatest deception of our generation is the belief that we can experience deep purpose and lasting joy without sacrifice and dying to ourselves first.

2 Corinthians 13:11-14 - Rejoice, Live in Peace, and Receive God's Grace Please turn to 2 Corinthians 13 verses 11-14. That is on page 1153 in the pew Bibles. It's always bittersweet to finish a sermon series. On the one hand, I wish it wasn't coming to an end because 2 Corinthians has been such a blessing. On the other hand, it's good to move on to other books of the Bible and be blessed and challenged in different ways. So, this will be our last sermon in this series. Next week, we are going to have a missions focused Sunday. And then after that, stay tuned. Let's now come to these concluding words of 2 Corinthians. This is inspired, inerrant God's Word, given through the apostle Paul. Reading of 2 Corinthians 13:11-14 Prayer Every book of the Bible, in different ways, relates to our culture and the church, today. Sometimes, the connection is more direct. Other times it is more indirect. Well, in 2 Corinthians we've seen many direct parallels. I think the reason is that the city of Corinth is like our culture today. It was a confluence of many backgrounds, beliefs, and idols. If you remember, it was a Roman city in Greece. The city had been resettled about 100 years earlier by Julius Ceasar. It therefore boasted of Roman authority and power but being on the Achaia peninsula in Greece, it was still influence by Greek philosophy and gods. The temple of Aphrodite – the goddess of love – overlooked the city. That unholy influence increased the city's sexual promiscuity and prostitution. Furthermore, it was also a major port city. People and goods travelling east and west would travel through Corinth. That made it a desirable place to live for many people from many cultures. You had sea merchants and other traders capitalizing on its primary industry. Other entrepreneurs set up shop to profit off of the all travelers. Since it was a rather new city, Roman and Greek nobles came to fill in the vacuums of political power. Put this all together, Corinth was very cosmopolitan. It was a melting pot of people groups with diverse religious, political, and commercial interests and backgrounds. Sound familiar? I don't think there's any major international city today that doesn't share some of the same characteristics, at least to one extent or another… the Atlanta area included. Think about the effect on the church. The world's philosophies and priorities were pressing in on the church in Corinth. And it wasn't just a single cultural influence; it was a combination of all those influences. That made it even more difficult for the church to filter out truth from error and righteousness from sinfulness. And it's the same thing today. Yes, there are different influences, but they are surprisingly similar. And like every generation in the past, those influences affect the church. Someone asked me the other day whether there was a particular teaching in the church today that 2 Corinthians directly confronts. And the answer is yes. 2 Corinthians directly confronts the Prosperity Gospel. As you know, the prosperity gospel has come up several times over these last few months. It teaches a false theology of suffering, an idolatrous view of money, and a perverted Gospel – a gospel not based on faith in what Christ has done on the cross and in his resurrection, but a false gospel that is socially conceived; focusing on earthly health and wealth and not faith in Christ alone. And, of course, it lines the pockets of the prosperity preachers. So, the false apostles in Corinth, which Paul called “super apostles” are in many ways analogous to prosperity Gospel preachers today. They not only perverted the truth, but arrogantly exalted themselves, their social status, and their worldly credentials. Now, to be sure, it's not a perfect parallel. The church in Corinth had its unique challenges, but the parallels to Prosperity preaching are there. And you can see some of those parallels in the various things that Paul has been addressing in the book. We've come across several of them. In summary, there have been five streams of teaching that have dealt with the issues in Corinth. They include: 1. Number 1, Authentic ministry. Not only has the apostle Paul over and over defended his apostleship, but in doing so, he has laid the foundation to true and authentic ministry. A faithful church and a faithful minister is humble and seeks to reflect Christ. Faithful churches and pastors pursue integrity and sincerity and point to Christ, not themselves. As Paul put it just a couple verses earlier, they build up and don't tear down. Those are the signs of faithful ministries. 2. A second stream that has come up multiple times is strength through weakness. That is, the strength of Christ in the weakness of our human flesh. 2 Corinthians has given us rich truths that we can hold on to in our weaknesses and suffering. Rather than try to summarize it here, let me just remind you of those verses. ·      Chapter 1: “[God] comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." ·      Chapter 4: “…we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.” It's speaking about the treasure of the Gospel given to us which we have in our frail bodies. ·      How about this one: “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen, which are eternal…” ·      And one more, chapter 12… “But he said to me [that is, the Lord said to Paul], 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” There are others. What God has done in 2 Corinthians is reorient our doctrine of suffering. God uses our suffering to remind us of his strength that we may rely on him, because when we are weak, then we are strong. 3. Ok, the third stream – God's Covenant promises of old have been fulfilled in Christ – in his Gospel. Through Jesus, the old covenant has been fulfilled. Remember, “For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.” This one has particular relevance to Corinth given some of the Jewish influences. The false apostles were trying to drag the people back into the forms and practices of the old covenant. But remember, those old forms and practices (like the sacrifices and festivals) were shadows of what was to come. Remember, the moon and planets reflect the sun, which is the source. It's a similar idea. Chapter 3 was all about this correction. The 10 commandments condemn us, but Christ has redeemed us. Chapter 5 gave us amazing truths. Verse 17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” And you've heard me say that 5:21 is in my mind, the clearest single verse that articulates the Gospel. “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” God made him, that is Jesus, to be sin for us, that we may receive his righteousness. 4. Number 4 – the fourth category. Giving and wealth. The middle chapters, 7-9, spoke of the grace of giving. Paul testified to Corinth that the Macedonians, though they were poor from a worldly standpoint, gave generously out of their poverty. The church has a responsibility to support the church. However, giving is not a means to salvation or a means to a better life, as today's false prosperity teachers say. No, rather, giving is a response to the grace of God in Christ. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” It's not talking about earthly riches but the riches of grace in Christ Jesus. Salvation and hope in him. The ultimate motivation for our giving is the grace of God in Christ. 5. And then the last thing – the last stream, number 5. Repentance and restoration. The whole letter, in a sense, is a call to repentance. Repentance and restoration have been key themes throughout. That's because the church in Corinth's beliefs and practices and lifestyle looked more like the Roman and Greek culture around them rather than the beliefs and practices and lifestyle that God had revealed to them in his Word and through his true apostles. That message is a message for every church and every believer in every generation. We are all tempted to trust in the things of this world and conform our beliefs to the philosophy of this world, rather than putting our trust in God and seeking to be conformed to him by faith. Chapter 10, we should “take every thought captive to obey Christ” and last week, chapter 13, we should therefore “examine ourselves.” So 5 emphases, 5 streams of correction which broadly speaking, the church in Corinth needed to hear. Not every individual, but the church as a whole, which is why at the beginning of this chapter the apostle warned of judgment if they did not to repent. Paul prayed for and entreated them to repent. The big question is, did the church in Corinth actually repent? Did they return to God in Christ in faithfulness? And I have an answer for you. But you'll have to wait a couple more minutes. First, let's actually get into our text this morning. I know we're more than halfway through our usual time, but I think that review was helpful both as a conclusion to our series as well as context for these final verses. So let's look at them. First look at verse 11. Paul calls them “brothers.” Last week, remember, he had just dropped the hammer of judgment - the warning of judgment. And now he reminds them that they are brothers and sisters in Christ. And I want you to think back on our study of 2 Corinthians. Really, Paul had been writing to two groups in the church. One, the faithful believers. He is thankful that their godly grief has produced repentance. He wrote that in chapter 7. In chapter 8, he called on them to also excel in the grace of giving, just like in other areas. But Paul has also been very direct at times with those who were not walking in godliness and truth. Some in the church were following the false apostles. Remember from chapter 11, some were “putting up with them readily enough.” And in chapter 12, Paul fears that they will not repent. Nonetheless, they are all in the church and they are therefore brothers and sisters. He says, “finally brothers” In other words, listen to me for you are my church family. And then notice that he gives them 5 imperatives in verses 11. That's a lot! Five commands in one verse. And each of them connects in different ways to the rest of the letter. Let's briefly consider these commands. He begins with “rejoice!” That specific Greek word for “rejoice” includes a sense that is not captured in our English word rejoice. It's rejoicing in sadness or suffering. That is how it is used in chapter 6, “though sorrowful, we are rejoicing.” And that particular emphasis of rejoicing in suffering, directly relates to the second command in verse 11. Look at it. “Comfort one another.” That brings us all the way back to chapter 1. Comfort one another in your affliction because you share in both the affliction and comfort of Christ. The next one is also very connected to the rest of the book. “aim for restoration.” It's a recognition that restoration is not always possible. But as much as it depends on you, aim for restoration. Do what you can to restore those who have wandered from God's truth and word. Remember from last week, Paul desired their restoration. Even if one of the so-called super apostles repented, he should be restored to the family of faith. Aim for restoration. The last two imperatives in verse 11 are related. “agree with one another” and “live in peace.” That's one of the things that the church in Corinth struggled with. Unity. Remember, the city had people from all over… people from different cultural backgrounds. Scattered throughout 1st and 2nd Corinthians, we are given glimpses of the makeup of the church. The church had Jewish background believers in Christ. It had gentile believers from both lower classes in society and from wealthy families. It had Greeks, Romans, some from northern Africa (that's where Apollos was from) and likely some people from Asia. Given the diversity, they struggled to get along. They often sinned against one another by quarrelling or slandering or gossip. That struggle has been well documented. And God calls them, through Paul, to agree with one another and to live in peace. Do you see how verse 11 is like a summary? Then after those 5 imperatives, he says, “and the God of love and peace will be with you.” Living in harmony in Christ with one another will bring to bear the love and peace of God. In other words, with all their troubles, the Corinthians were not experiencing God's love and peace. It's not that they didn't have the love of God or peace from God, but all their troubles suppressed that love and peace. It's very difficult to live in a community or family where people are always at odds with one another. I've never experienced that, but I've known plenty who have. It fosters relational sin that at times can spiral out of control if the forgiveness and grace of Christ does not prevail. That forgiveness and grace needed to prevail in Corinth. It needs to prevail in every church. That's a good word for us. And then Paul says, “greet one another with a holy kiss!” This refers to a brotherly or sisterly kind of kiss. Most believe it refers to kissing someone on the cheek – Kind of like in Italy or France today. The point is to show some kind of affection to each other. It's a sign of commitment. Paul desired them to be with one another in person and display love and devotion because they were united together in Christ. You can't do that if you remain in your little tribes and only talk to your people. There's something about being together and displaying your brotherly or sisterly affection to one another that disarms conflict. A parallel today could be communicating in the digital world. You know, we send emails and texts. And sometimes, we inadvertently imply something that we didn't intend. Or someone assumes something based on how we worded something. But when you are in person, many of those opportunities for miscommunication go away. I am not saying that we should only communicate in person. In fact, that's what this letter was, a written word. But Paul was on his way there to be with them in person. And he wanted them to be with present with one another. And he adds, “All the saints greet you.” It was a reminder that all the believers from all the churches are bound together in Christ. We greet one another knowing that we share the amazing promises of God in him. The Corinthians were not alone. No, they shared their faith in Christ with the poor Jewish believers in Jerusalem. And with the churches of north Africa. And with the Macedonians and those in Asia minor. The were all brothers and sisters in Christ. Ok, before we get to this great benediction in verse 14, let's return to the question. Did the church in Corinth repent? Were the false apostles kicked out or even better come to know the truth and grace of Christ? Did those causing division and those living unholy lives return to faithful living in Chist? Did they follow through on their commitment to give to the poor saints in Jerusalem? And the answer is, yes. Or I should probably say all indications are yes, they did. In the beginning of Acts 20 we're told that Paul spent 3 months in southern Greece. There is no mention of conflict in the church. Furthermore, at the end of Romans in chapter 15, Paul confirms that yes, the church in Achaia, where Corinth was, contributed to the saints in Jerusalem. And that is all consistent with the report that Titus brought to Paul earlier in chapter 7 – repentant hearts. The work of the Holy Spirit, through Paul as a true apostle appears to have unified the church in Corinth. As he's writing these final words, Paul doesn't know what will happen… But he nonetheless concludes his letter with a great benediction. It's one of the two most used benedictions in Scripture. The other being the Aaronic benediction from Numbers 6. In fact, 2 Corinthians 13:14 is one of the main trinitarian verses in Scripture. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ… that is, the grace that saves and the grace that sustains us. It is that grace which has been the central emphasis of every single chapter in this book - the grace found in the cross of Christ, which restores and reconciles. May that grace be the center of our ministry and lives. And may the love of God… that is, the love of God the Father who gave his son for us. A love greater than any love anywhere at any time. It is a love that we did not deserve, but a love which God nonetheless poured out on us. And may the fellowship of the Holy Spirit… that is the unifying work of God through his Spirit who has brought us together in Christ. It is the only thing that can break down the walls of hostility and make us one body, because he has broken down the walls in our hearts and made us one people in Christ. May God who is three in one, in all these ways, bless and keep us, just as he did for the Corinthians. Amen? I want to encourage you to re-read 2 Corinthians this week. I think you'll be blessed to be reminded about all that we've studied.

1 Corinthians 1:5 (NLT) "Through him, God has enriched your church in every way—with all of your eloquent words and all of your knowledge." 1 Corinthians 10–12 (NLT) "I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. For some members of Chloe's household have told me about your quarrels, my dear brothers and sisters. Some of you are saying, “I am a follower of Paul.” Others are saying, “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Peter,” or “I follow only Christ.” In today's Daily Devotions, Pastor David Sumrall gives us a reminder: God has enriched your church—not just you as an individual. Paul's words to the Corinthians challenge the growing trend of spiritual individualism. The local church is God's plan, and it matters. But when people start saying, “I follow this pastor” or “I only follow Christ,” it creates division instead of unity. Paul pleads with the church to stop following personalities and start living in harmony—with one mind, one thought, and one purpose. This kind of unity isn't just possible—it's what God desires for every local church today. Watch now and let your heart be aligned to God's design for the church: unified, enriched, and walking in purpose.

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comI Corinthians 16The apostle Paul concludes his letter with practical guidance and personal remarks for the church in Corinth. He encourages them to participate in the collection for the Jerusalem church, outlining a systematic and generous weekly approach to giving. He then shares his travel plans, expressing a desire to visit Corinth if the Lord allows, and mentions Timothy and Apollos, urging the church to welcome and support them. Believers are challenged to stand firm in their faith, act courageously, and do everything with a spirit of love. Paul acknowledges the contributions of faithful individuals like Stephanas and his household, urging the church to honor those who serve. The conclusion warns those who might abandon their love for the Lord, while also announcing grace for those who remain steadfast in God's love. A consistent theme throughout the New Testament is charity from believers to alleviate the burdens of their fellow believers. The church in Corinth set aside funds each week to ensure they could assist the brethren in Jerusalem at the right time. This practice continues in churches today, and this text serves as a key passage explaining why we collect contributions on the first day of the week to be ready to help needy Christians wherever they may be. Disciples helping and encouraging one another, whether through monetary support, spiritual instruction, or simply listening, is evident throughout the first-century church. This should be a central mission in our lives and proves that we are abiding in the love of Jesus. Benevolent Father, we know it brings You joy to see Your children helping and supporting one another. Whether through Sunday contributions or individual acts of service, employ us to assist Your people with their needs. Please create opportunities today for us to give of ourselves to meet the needs of a brother or sister in Christ. Discipline us to be strong in our resolve for Your purposes, filled with love toward everyone we encounter in Jesus' name. In a world focused on self, teach us to embody strong, Christ-like love while refreshing the spirits of our fellow workers in the kingdom.  Thought Questions: -       Do you believe it is important to contribute on the first day of the week? Is it equally important that such contributions prioritize needy saints? -       Saints are encouraged to welcome Christians who visit them. Should our work for disciples include hospitality to new faces who come our way? -       Paul notes that suppliers in the kingdom “have refreshed my spirit and yours.” If giving refreshes the spirit of another, should we do it often?

Series: First Love Living | The Best Way To Love  | July 27, 2025Before Ephesus lost their first love – they HAD a small but mighty church that was changing the world.  Ephesus was the gateway between Asia & Europe, along with being the guardian of the temple of Artemus (Diana – Wonder woman!), and hosted one of the greatest libraries of the First Century.  It was a city that had a higher percentage of literate people than almost every other city in the world.  It garnered wealth and influence and shared it through the thousands who passed through.  And even though the Christian community was small, it celebrated some of the greatest leaders and teachers of the new Christian era – Paul, Timothy, the Apostle John, Priscilla & Aquila, Apollos, and more!   Of all the churches of the first century, it's the church MANY of us pastors & leaders aspire to become. This summer, we'll dig into the Scriptures regarding Ephesus, and especially the letter Paul wrote to it, gleaning from the story how to grow and keep a “First Love Life” with God.

Subscribe to Theology in the Raw on Patreon to instantly unlock this full Bonus Q&A. You'll also have access to a huge archive of bonus episodes, Extra Innings, and free video content from the Exiles in Babylon archives. Here's the questions you'll find when you unlock the full episode!* Huldah interpreted Scripture for men and was sanctioned by God as a prophet to do so. Does that role for women change in the New Testament?* Do you see this issue as an agree-to-disagree issue between Christians? How important is it and why?* Does Phoebe being a letter carrier necessarily mean that she is teaching authoritatively? Isn't Paul the true authority, and she is simply representing him?* In 1Tim 3:1 Paul says “if anyone desires to be an elder” if he meant only men, why use the Greek word “tis” and not a more descriptive word for male?* Is it possible to be a mutualist at home but a purely symbolic complementarian in the church on the basis that bishops are representatives of the apostles?* Elder-exclusive complementarianism is the only form that makes any sense to me, Biblically. What arguments, if any, do you see for stricter forms?* Does "husband of one wife" in 1 Tim. 3.2;3.12 have to be gender exclusive? Could it be translated as some have suggested as a "one-man" woman?* Comps: women cant teach/exercise auth. over men because 1 Tim 2.But Priscilla teaching Apollos is to a degree a man submitting to a woman's teaching. How you understand this?* In Gen 3 God punished females with subjection to their husbands due to Eve's sin. Is Paul extrapolating this to church leadership positions as well in 1 Tim 2?* Do we need to read primogeniture into Genesis in order to be faithfully exegeting Genesis 2?* With so many Hapax Legomena in 1 Timothy, and 8 alone in 1 Timothy 2, why is it so often quoted as “the clearest passage on women” in the New Testament?* Does Gen. 3:15 indicate that sexism is from Satan, ie., that the enemy specifically targets women? If so, what are the implications for the church/Christians?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apollos' influence and effectiveness flowed from his deep grounding in the Word. He was bold, articulate, and passionate—but it was his scriptural foundation that made him truly impactful. Even as he taught powerfully, he remained open to correction and growth. This message emphasizes the central role of Scripture in shaping our lives, ministries, and witness, reminding us that God works through those who know and live His Word.

Series: First Love Living | Dressing up in Purity  | July 20, 2025Before Ephesus lost their first love – they HAD a small but mighty church that was changing the world.  Ephesus was the gateway between Asia & Europe, along with being the guardian of the temple of Artemus (Diana – Wonder woman!), and hosted one of the greatest libraries of the First Century.  It was a city that had a higher percentage of literate people than almost every other city in the world.  It garnered wealth and influence and shared it through the thousands who passed through.  And even though the Christian community was small, it celebrated some of the greatest leaders and teachers of the new Christian era – Paul, Timothy, the Apostle John, Priscilla & Aquila, Apollos, and more!   Of all the churches of the first century, it's the church MANY of us pastors & leaders aspire to become. This summer, we'll dig into the Scriptures regarding Ephesus, and especially the letter Paul wrote to it, gleaning from the story how to grow and keep a “First Love Life” with God.

Apollos sprak met overtuiging over Jezus, maar kende slechts de doop van Johannes. Paulus ontmoette gelovigen die de heilige Geest nog niet kenden totdat zij gedoopt werden in Jezus' naam. Zijn er mensen in jouw omgeving waarvan je kunt zien dat zij de heilige Geest hebben ontvangen? Waaraan merk je dat?

Send us a textActs 19:1-7And it happened that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the inland country and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples. And he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” And he said, “Into what then were you baptized?” They said, “Into John's baptism.” And Paul said, “John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.” On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying. There were about twelve men in all.Support the show

Send us a textActs 18:24-29Now a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent man, competent in the Scriptures. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord. And being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue, but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. And when he wished to cross to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him. When he arrived, he greatly helped those who through grace had believed, for he powerfully refuted the Jews in public, showing by the Scriptures that the Christ was Jesus.Support the show

Apollos is described as a man mighty in the Scriptures—passionate, knowledgeable, and eager to share God's truth. Yet even with his strong foundation, he remained teachable, receiving further instruction and growing in his understanding. His life shows the power of combining biblical knowledge with humility and boldness. This message will encourage us to pursue a deep knowledge of God's Word while staying open to growth, so we can be effective and fruitful in every good work.

Why do churches split over leaders and styles rather than core biblical truths? Dr. Neufeld examines 1 Corinthians 1:11-17, where Paul addresses four factions in the Corinthian church—those following Paul, Apollos, Peter, or claiming to follow Christ alone. Through Paul's pointed questions about baptism and the cross, Dr. Neufeld reveals that confidence in human skills was dividing Corinth, when their unity should have been centered on the power of the cross, not the style of their leaders.The Power of Christ in a Pagan World: Join Dr. John Neufeld for this 20-message series as he focuses on the book of 1 Corinthians. Covering chapters 1-4, The Power of Christ in a Pagan World looks at the many issues that confronted the church in Corinth; Problems that seemed to find their place within the church at every turn! This series helps us unpack the different conflicts and struggles of this early church in a relevant and practical way. Even though the church in Corinth existed a long time ago, they went through trials that might sound familiar to us in the 21st Century!

Message by Fred Hartsook, recorded live July 13, 2025 at First Presbyterian Church of Bellingham. Scripture read by Hillary Thomsen.Gifts Develop in CommunityApollos taught by Priscilla and Aquila - our gifts are developed in community - each one teach one.Have you ever felt like Apollos — gifted and passionate, but realizing there's still more to learn? How do you stay teachable?How do you handle correction — whether giving or receiving it? What does this moment teach us about humility in ministry?Who has affirmed or mentored your faith journey? Who might you encourage or train up like Priscilla and Aquila did?Where do you experience the community building you up in your gifting?Acts 18:24-2824 Now there came to Ephesus a Jew named Apollos from Alexandria. He was an eloquent man, well-versed in the scriptures. 25 He had been instructed in the Way of the Lord, and he spoke with burning enthusiasm and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John. 26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue, but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him they took him aside and explained the Way of God to him more accurately. 27 And when he wished to cross over to Achaia, the brothers and sisters encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him. On his arrival he greatly helped those who through grace had become believers, 28 for he powerfully refuted the Jews in public, showing by the scriptures that the Messiah is Jesus.

Series: First Love Living | Maturing in our Calling  | July 13, 2025Before Ephesus lost their first love – they HAD a small but mighty church that was changing the world.  Ephesus was the gateway between Asia & Europe, along with being the guardian of the temple of Artemus (Diana – Wonder woman!), and hosted one of the greatest libraries of the First Century.  It was a city that had a higher percentage of literate people than almost every other city in the world.  It garnered wealth and influence and shared it through the thousands who passed through.  And even though the Christian community was small, it celebrated some of the greatest leaders and teachers of the new Christian era – Paul, Timothy, the Apostle John, Priscilla & Aquila, Apollos, and more!   Of all the churches of the first century, it's the church MANY of us pastors & leaders aspire to become. This summer, we'll dig into the Scriptures regarding Ephesus, and especially the letter Paul wrote to it, gleaning from the story how to grow and keep a “First Love Life” with God.

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Today Karen and Emily dive into the dynamics of marriage and parenting by reminding us that we are not our husband's Holy Spirit! Karen shares her own story about letting go of the urge to control her husband's spiritual journey and offers practical wisdom for managing the emotional ups and downs that come with doing life together. Lean in for practical advice about navigating differences with your spouse, remembering that it is God who ultimately guides our faith journey!Episode Recap:1:49 We diminish God's power when we try to control our husbands6:10 How do I let go of my husband's lack of a quiet time? 9:05 Allow the Holy Spirit to do its job, your job is to love and respect your husband10:15 My husband is harsh when he disciplines, what do I do? 14:10 How can I get my husband to take more initiative and help me more?17:30 Be specific when you ask for help18:45 My husband's moodiness brings me down! Scripture for Reflection:1 Corinthians 3: 6-7 (NIV): "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."Questions for Discussion:Can you relate to the feeling of wanting to control your husband's spiritual walk? When has this happened in your own marriage, and how have you handled it?How do you and your spouse parent differently? What strengths does your husband's style bring to the family? What strengths does your style bring? Do you think you make a good team or is there a lack of balance?Do you ever struggle with resentment or feeling overwhelmed in your role as a wife and mother? What steps have you taken to address these feelings, and how did your husband respond?When your husband is in a "blue mood," how do you typically react? Have you found any strategies that help both of you during those times, and how do you maintain your own emotional balance?Have you or your husband used this idea of space to deescalate tension in your relationship? Was it effective?Resources:Looking for a summer study? Check out Peace for the Anxious Mom: https://boaw.teachable.com/p/peace-for-the-anxious-momSign up for Soar at Sea: https://www.soaratsea.com

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comI Corinthians 3In Corinth, divisions arise as believers align themselves with leaders like Paul or Apollos. Paul addresses the church, explaining that these leaders are merely servants, while God is the one who causes growth. He compares the church to a field, where one plants and another waters, but God gives the increase. Paul then describes the church as a building, with Christ as the only foundation. He warns that each person's work will be tested by fire to reveal its true quality. Paul reminds them they are God's temple, where the Holy Spirit dwells. He calls them to reject worldly wisdom and to boast only in Christ, who unites them. Through this teaching, Paul urges the Corinthians to seek unity, build wisely, and glorify God in all things.Paul yearns to share deeper insights with the Corinthians, but their spiritual growth is hindered by jealousy, strife, and division. These issues serve as a warning for us to guard against such attitudes in our own lives. Instead, we should concentrate on humility, loving others, and pursuing unity, which opens the door for God's truths and works to flourish within us. Christ is our unshakable foundation, and proclaiming Him is our mission. While some will grow and thrive, others may falter, but our responsibility is to remain faithful, humble, and service-oriented throughout the journey. In His wisdom, God is in control, and He will provide the increase. Our boasting is in His strength, not in ourselves or anyone else.  Compassionate God, please be patient with us. Weaknesses such as jealousy and bitterness attempt to infiltrate our hearts and fellowship, and sometimes we stumble. Help us refocus on the grace of Jesus and renew our hearts to discover deeper spiritual truths and remain steadfast in the ministry. Some of our efforts will endure, while others may falter, but we trust that You are with us and will provide growth as You see fit. Strengthen us to trust You and humbly continue being a temple of the Holy Spirit, a community where the world can find the Spirit, the Son, and You.   Thought Questions: -       The Corinthian division was seeded in jealousy and strife. What helps you keep those emotions from living within your heart? -       Evangelism is emotional. Some come to Christ and stay, while others fall away. How do you stay encouraged to remain active no matter what? -       “Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” What is this indwelling, and how does it affect you?

Part 35 – Love, Labor, and Loyalty: Finishing Well 1 Corinthians 16:5–24As we close our journey through 1 Corinthians, today's message centers on Paul's heartfelt final instructions and the personal tone of his apostolic leadership. We explore themes of relational ministry, kingdom partnerships, and faith-filled perseverance. Paul models flexibility in planning, deep love for the body, and unwavering loyalty to Yeshua.Highlights include:Paul's travel plans shaped by the Spirit and the biblical calendar (vv. 5–9)Honoring fellow workers like Timothy and Apollos (vv. 10–12)A powerful exhortation to stand firm, be strong, and do everything in love (vv. 13–14)Recognition of faithful service (vv. 15–18)Emphasis on unity across regions (vv. 19–21)Sobering final words: “Maranatha!” and “Let love for Yeshua be sincere” (vv. 22–24)Key Takeaways:True leadership flows from love and humility.Partnership in the Gospel requires mutual honor and trust.God's Kingdom is built through faith, not fame.A disciple's life is marked by watchfulness, courage, love, and a longing for Messiah's return.Let your love be real.Let your faith be strong.Let your labor be fruitful.Let your hope be in His coming.“The grace of the Lord Yeshua be with you. My love to all of you in Messiah Yeshua. Amen.”

Epistle Reading: Titus 3:8-15Titus, my son, the saying is sure. I desire you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to apply themselves to good deeds; these are excellent and profitable to men. But avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels over the law, for they are unprofitable and futile. As for a man who is factious, after admonishing him once or twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is perverted and sinful; he is self-condemned.When I send Artemas or Tychicos to you, do your best to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. Do your best to speed Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way; see that they lack nothing. And let our people learn to apply themselves to good deeds, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not to be unfruitful.All who are with me send greeting to you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.Gospel Reading: Matthew 5:14-19The Lord said to his disciples, "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven."

In this message from “The Next Right Thing” series, Pastor Jon Ewton unpacks Acts 18:18–28 and Ephesians 4:11–16, highlighting the intentional and relational process of discipleship. With examples from Paul's journey and the ministry of Priscilla, Aquila, and Apollos, we're reminded that spiritual growth doesn't happen by accident. It's a lifelong, community-driven process that leads to a mature, Christ-like church. Pastor Jon challenges us to engage in deep, consistent discipleship—growing in faith and helping others do the same.

After years of discipling Caleb by himself, Mark was dismayed to find out that a church leader had assigned another mentor to the young man. The leader remarked, “Finally, Caleb has a mentor.” What did they think I was doing all these years? Mark wondered. Though he had not expected any reward or recognition, he couldn’t help feeling hurt. Years later, however, Caleb told Mark that he had entered Caleb’s life just when he most needed spiritual guidance. On hearing these encouraging words, Mark came to this realization: God gives believers in Jesus specific gifts to serve Him differently—without comparing with others—and He controls the timing. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-31, Paul stresses the value of members of the body having different gifts, roles, and assignments, while remembering the ultimate source of the results: “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow” (3:6). Each of us may be given a unique season and opportunity to do God’s work. Unlike people, God doesn’t compare our work, for He loves us as individuals. May we keep our eyes and hearts focused on doing our best in the season that God has given us—relying completely on His strength and empowerment—and not worry about what others achieve in their own way and time.

Color: Red First Reading: Acts 15:1–12 First Reading: Acts 15:1–21 Psalm: Psalm 46; antiphon: v. 11 Epistle: Galatians 2:1–10 Gospel: Matthew 16:13–19 Introit: Psalm 89:1, 5, 15–16; antiphon: Psalm 119:46 Gradual: Romans 10:15b, 18b; Isaiah 52:7b, alt. Verse: Matthew 16:18b St. Peter and St. Paul, Apostles   Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God.” So confessed St. Peter. And Christ promised to build His Church on it by the forgiveness of sins (Matt. 16:16–19). He does this so we don't try to build the Church ourselves, on this or that person, or by any human means. “Let no one boast in men … whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas,” for “all are yours, and you are Christ's, and Christ is God's” (1 Cor. 3:21–23). The same Lord “who worked through Peter … worked also through” Paul and is still at work in His Gospel and Sacraments (Gal. 2:7–8). The Church of every age must be recalled to “hear the word of the gospel” — the free forgiveness of sins for Christ's sake apart from the Law — “and believe.” The Holy Spirit makes “no distinction” among men, but cleanses “hearts by faith” alone. So “we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 15:7–11). Both were imprisoned (Acts 12:1–11), both wrote Scripture (2 Peter 3:15–16), both opposed the world — and sometimes each other (Gal. 2:11–16) — all so “that the truth of the gospel might be preserved” for us (Gal. 2:5). Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship

It's Tuesday, July 1, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson and Adam McManus Chinese Communists give pastors 3 years in jail for leading church Three pastors from Linfen Covenant Home Church in Shanxi, China have been sentenced to 2-4 years of prison time for various charges related to their leading an unregistered church in the communist country. The church issued a statement, announcing that “We honor the service of Li Jie, Han Xiaodong, and Wang Qiang who suffered for righteousness, and we are willing to bear the cross with the Lord. We receive this verdict with a grateful and obedient heart.” Jesus offers this encouragement in Revelation 2:10 -- “Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” Brazilian homeschool mother facing $20,000 of fines Today, a Brazilian court will hear a case of a mom prosecuted for homeschooling her son.   Regiane Cichelero is facing fines of $20,000 and threats of losing custody of her child, for choosing home education on religious grounds.  Alliance Defending Freedom International has taken up the case.  Her legal counsel, Julio Pohl, pointed out that “No parent should fear state punishment for choosing to homeschool their child. Regiane made a lawful and conscientious decision to teach her son at home. We are hopeful that the court will affirm her rights and take an important step toward protecting parental rights in Brazil.”   Regiane continues to homeschool despite the risks involved. Pray for this case, which may serve as a precedent for the other 70,000 homeschooled children in Brazil.   Victory of Christian Colorado camp over transgender agenda Also, Alliance Defending Freedom has announced a favorable settlement for the Idrahaje Christian Camp in Bailey, Colorado. The camp was under threat of losing its license for refusing to submit to state requirements regarding the transgendering of bathrooms and living quarters. The name of the camp is taken from the phrase “I'd rather have Jesus more than anything!”  They use the first two letters of the first four words. The State of Colorado agreed not to take any enforcement action against Camp IdRaHaJe for violation of the gender identity requirements. The state has also clarified in a memo on its website that “churches, synagogues, mosques, or any other place that is principally used for religious purposes” are exempt from the transgendering requirements. Syria's own government helped massacre 1,500 Alawites Reuters has reported on its investigation of the Syrian massacre of 1,500 Alawites in March of this year. The perpetrators included units belonging to the new government based in Damascus. Ahmed Hussein al-Sharaa of the Free Syrian Army and Al-Qaeda took over Syria in January of this year. The new government has also instituted a constitution stating that  “The religion of the President of the Republic is Islam. … Islamic jurisprudence is the principal source of legislation.” This constitutes a step up in Islamic rule over Syria. According to Open Doors, Syria is the 18th most dangerous country worldwide for Christians. Iraq allows Muslim men to “marry” 9-year-old girls The new Iraqi government is also following Islamic Sharia law closely. Earlier this year, Iraq's parliament voted to give Islamic courts more control in family law, and permit child marriages for girls as young as nine years of age.  Supreme Court allows parents to opt kids out & requires porn sites to verify age Here in America, the U.S. Supreme Court is allowing parents opt-out rights for their elementary-aged children from having to participate in homosexual-themed lessons. That comes by a vote of 6 to 3. Writing for the majority, Justice Samuel Alito emphasized that “What the parents seek here is not the right to micromanage the public school curriculum, but rather to have their children opt out of a particular educational requirement that burdens their well-established right ‘to direct ‘the religious upbringing' of their children'” under  the free exercise clause of the First Amendment.  Another 6-3 ruling, the High Court has also upheld a Texas Law requiring pornographic websites to verify users are over 18 years of age.  Only adults will be allowed into these sinful activities. Writing for the majority, Justice Clarence Thomas concluded, ”The power to require age verification is within a State's authority to prevent children from accessing sexually explicit content.” But, in Matthew 5:27-28, Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.'  But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” U.S. government buying its own bonds The U.S. government is buying back its own bonds. Barchart reports the largest buyback in history occurred earlier this month.  Under the direction of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, the department bought $10 billion of its own bonds.  Federal Reserve on the ropes The Federal Reserve issued $150 billion of bonds in May, but only managed to sell half of them.   Also, the Fed has recorded its first two-year-in-a-row financial loss, totaling $192 billion in 2023 and 2024. This is the first time this has occurred in the Fed's 110-year history. Year to date,  the federal deficit  stands at $1.37 billion as of the end of May. That's 14% higher than last year at this time.  Dad jumps into ocean off Disney Cruise ship to save daughter Here's a story demonstrating a remarkable act of courage and love on the part of a dad. A young child fell off the fourth deck of a Disney cruiseliner on Sunday.   Her father took immediate action, dove in after her. . . and held her while treading water, until a rescue boat pulled them out of the ocean waters. An eyewitness explained what happened to WPLG News. EYEWITNESS: “They were playing shuffleboard that was on the fourth floor. The parents were playing, and then the little girl was climbing up on the railing and flew off.” One passenger said,  “The ship was moving quickly, so quickly, it's crazy how quickly the people became tiny dots in the sea, and then you lost sight of them.” Another passenger said, “I saw the mother crying and but when they rescued them, I think that's when the tears really started flowing.  I prayed to God to save them, and He did!” The Disney Dream was heading back from the Bahamas to Fort Lauderdale when the incident occurred. Worldview teens share their hearts 15-year-old Titus Beran in Omaha, Nebraska wrote me at Adam@TheWorldview.com. He said, “I love the verses included in the newscast! They really help me focus back on God's Word and bring every area of life, even politics and news, into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” And 16-year-old Leah Smith in Franklin, Kentucky wrote, “I have been subscribed to The Worldview in 5 Minutes for a little over a year. I don't watch the news on a regular basis, but have been continually blessed by the ministry of this website. It is so irregular to have such a concise, non-secular newscast that makes me aware of political news, needs of persecuted Christians, and even basic information that keeps me up to date on what is going on. “When I read your newscast transcript,  I am not only encouraged by stories of fellow believers, but I am also moved to pray for the issues in our world. God is truly using your Christian newscast to reach people with the truth. It has been a blessing in my life!” What Troy's three boys enjoy about The Worldview Troy in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas talked to his three sons -- Sovereign, age 12, Shalom, age 10, and Apollos, age 7 -- about The Worldview. They said, “I like to start my morning at breakfast listening to it.” “I like how I get to hear about people around the world who need Jesus.”  And “I like that I can hear the news which is filtered through a Biblical lens.” Troy added, “We praise the Lord for all of you and your diligent service to the Lord. It is so exciting to hear about donors from all over the world who are united to us in Christ. What an encouraging example to our younger generation. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.” 42 Worldview listeners gave $12,534.95 to fund our annual budget And finally, toward our $123,500 goal by yesterday, June 30, to fully fund The Worldview's annual budget for our 6-member team, 42 listeners stepped up to the plate. Our thanks to Sovereign, age 12, Shalom, age 10, and Apollos, age 7, in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas who gave $4.50, Mamie in Tulsa, Oklahoma who gave $10 as well as Esther in Bolivar, Missouri, Henry in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Holly in San Antonio, Texas, Carol in Kingston, New York, Amy in Ennis, Texas, and Jensen, age 9, in Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Canada – each of whom gave $25. We appreciate Mark in Goodyear, Arizona who gave $30, Kayden, age 16, in Gepp, Arkansas who gave $40 as well as Kolt, age 13, in Gepp, Arkansas, Isaiah in Fruita, Colorado, Alexander in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Phillip in Alliance, Ohio, Sarah in Rolla, Missouri, and Constance in Los Alamos, California – each of whom gave $50. We are grateful to God for Joe and Sheryl in Westmoreland, Tennessee who gave $60, Michael in Torrance, California and Marty and Christa in Humboldt, Saskatchewan, Canada – both of whom gave $75, as well as Craig in Moriarty, New Mexico, Gay in Victoria, Texas, George in Edinburgh, Indiana, Debbie in Wildwood, Missouri, Gregory in Lodi, California, Duane in Moriarty, New Mexico, Marcia in Holland, Michigan, and an anonymous donor in Atlanta, Georgia – each of whom gave $100. We were touched by the generosity of Rusty in Marshall, Illinois and Josiah in Hillsboro, Kansas – both of whom gave $200, Frances in Beacon, New York who gave $240.45, Wes in Eden Prairie, Minnesota  and LuShun in Newport News, Virginia – both of whom gave $250, Kirtis in Gepp, Arkansas who gave $300, as well as Ed in Wellsburg, Iowo and Michele in Kindersley, Saskatchewan, Canada – both of whom pledged $25/month for 12 months for a gift of $300 each. And we were moved by the sacrifice of Danielle in Brighton, Colorado who gave $450, Brad and Judy in West Chicago, Illinois who gave $500, Troy in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas who pledged $50/month for 12 months for a gift of $600, John in Auburn, Washington who gave $1,000, Max in Macon, Georgia  who gave $1,200, an anonymous donor from Louisiana who gave $1,200, and Jeanne in Columbia, South Carolina who gave $4,000. Those 42 Worldview listeners gave a total of $12,534.95 Ready for our new grand total? Drum roll please.  (Drum roll sound effect) $125,494.50!  (People clapping and cheering sound effect)   That means we exceeded our $123,500 goal to fund the 6-member Worldview newscast team by $1,994.50! On behalf of the entire Worldview newscast team -- including Kevin Swanson and Jonathan Clark who write the newscast transcript alongside myself, Emily Munday who helps research stories, Rebakah Swanson and Kayla White who add the music, select the image, and upload the audio to multiple platforms – thank you for sharing your treasure to ensure that we can deliver accurate news from a Biblical perspective for another fiscal year. 1 John 3:18 says, “Let us not love in word or talk, but in deed and in truth.”  Those of you who were prompted by the Lord to give financially and to pray for this ministry, you showed your love in your deeds. For that, we humbly thank you.  And I assure you, we'll be vigilant stewards of every hard-earned penny which you've entrusted to us. Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, July 1st, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

In this episode, we delve into the journey of Paul as he begins his third missionary journey. Right away, he faces a riot in Ephesus, a major influential city in ancient Asia Minor. We explore Paul's encounters with Apollos, an eloquent speaker who learns about the complete baptism in Jesus, and with disciples of John who realize they need to understand who Jesus truly is. The episode also covers a dramatic story involving the sons of Skiva, who fail in their attempt to use Jesus' name to exorcise demons, highlighting the power and supernatural nature of Paul's ministry. Lastly, we witness the profound impact of the gospel on the city, leading to the public burning of valuable pagan artifacts and causing significant unrest among the devotees of Artemis. Turn to Acts 18 and 19 to follow along.

Jesus Delivered Us (2) (audio) David Eells – 6/25/25 I'm going to continue speaking about how Jesus has delivered us. When the Syrophoenician woman asked Jesus to deliver her daughter in (Matthew 15:21-28), who was “grievously vexed with a demon” (Mat.15:26) … He answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread and cast it to the dogs. Deliverance is for God's people; deliverance is “the children's bread.” Those who think they can go and just cast demons out of any lost person do not know anything about deliverance. In the first place, it's a very dangerous thing to do. We are the ones who are in covenant with God, the covenant being deliverance from the curse of sin and of death (Rom.8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus made me free from the law of sin and of death.). This is our covenant. We have a right to total deliverance from bondage of the flesh and from bondage to demon spirits. We have the right, but that does not mean we will attain it. The right to deliverance comes when we receive knowledge and understanding of the promises, and then we enter into those covenant promises by faith. The Bible says in (Heb.4:3) …the works were finished from the foundation of the world. So the only thing remaining is for us to enter into those works through faith. It also says in (Heb.4:2) …but the word of hearing did not profit them (the Jews), because it was not united by faith with them that heard. When the Israelites were supposed to conquer their Promised Land, all they needed to do was what Joshua and Caleb did; they believed the Word of God. Ten of the twelve spies who came back did not believe the Word of God. They believed only what they saw, felt, and heard, and those were the things they confessed. They did not enter into the Promised Land because they brought back a bad report. Let's read that. (Num.13:25) And they returned from spying out the land at the end of forty days. (26) And they went and came to Moses, and to Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of Israel, unto the wilderness of Paran, to Kadesh; and brought back word unto them, and unto all the congregation, and showed them the fruit of the land. (27) And they told him, and said, We came unto the land whither thou sentest us; and surely it floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it. (28) Howbeit the people that dwell in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there. (29) Amalek dwelleth in the land of the South: and the Hittite, and the Jebusite, and the Amorite, dwell in the hill-country; and the Canaanite dwelleth by the sea, and along by the side of the Jordan. (30) And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it. (31) But the men that went up with him said, We are not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we. (32) And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had spied out unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to spy it out, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of great stature.  (33) And there we saw the Nephilim, the sons of Anak, who come of the Nephilim: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight. (Num.14:1) And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. This is also a type and shadow. There are ministers today who do not believe that we can be holy. They do not believe we can overcome sin and the devil. God wants to lead us through our Promised Land or Land of Promise to come against our enemies and conquer them all. But you have no authority to cast a demon out of a person who is full of bitterness, unforgiveness, anger, and resentment. You'll waste a lot of breath trying to deliver these people because, without true repentance, they can come back. And you do not know the tormentors; you just know that they are demons. They could be demons of spiritual infirmities or they could be unclean spirits. Anyone wanting to help in the ministry of deliverance should first be filled with the Holy Spirit. We need this gift, and a person who is not filled with the Holy Spirit has no business in any deliverance ministry. In the days of the first disciples, all of them were filled with the Holy Spirit, and they would make sure other disciples were also filled with the Holy Spirit. (Act.19:1) And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper country came to Ephesus, and found certain disciples: (2) and he said unto them, Did ye receive the Holy Spirit when ye believed? And they [said] unto him, Nay, we did not so much as hear whether the Holy Spirit was [given]. (3) And he said, Into what then were ye baptized? And they said, Into John's baptism. (4) And Paul said, John baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people that they should believe on him that should come after him, that is, on Jesus. (5) And when they heard this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus. The Holy Spirit is God's authority to know what is going on in people. We are to live under the law of the Spirit (Romans 7:6,8:2,4; etc.). The Old Testament Law, all those rules and regulations, was given to Israel because they did not have the Spirit of God, and so they didn't know what to do when they got into such-and-such a situation. It does not work that way in the New Testament because we have the Holy Spirit to lead us. (Gal.5:18) But if ye are led by the Spirit, ye are not under the law. He guides us in the ministry of deliverance from lusts of the flesh and demons that rule over the lusts of the flesh. The most common reason why people don't get delivered from demons is because they are not right with their brother, and what often happens is that not being right with their brother does not get revealed. Jesus tells us to make things right with our brother before we bring our gift before the altar; otherwise, He will turn you over to the jailer and the jailer will throw you into prison. That “jailer” is the devil. (Mat.5:23) If therefore thou art offering thy gift at the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee, (24) leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way, first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. (25) Agree with thine adversary quickly, while thou art with him in the way; lest haply the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. Jesus came to set the captives free. That is what we were, but that is not what we are now supposed to be. We were captive to the lusts of the flesh, representing the old man of the land, who seems like a giant to us, and were captive to the devil. We were in prison, having no hope without God. In Luke 4, Jesus was quoting from Isaiah, (Isa.61:1) The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening [of the prison] to them that are bound… Liberty to the captives has been proclaimed, but not everybody is entering into this liberty being cowards before their giant flesh. Our job as ministers of reconciliation is to minister the same thing that Jesus ministered. (2Co.5:18) But all things are of God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and gave unto us the ministry of reconciliation. Our job is to proclaim the liberty that was given to us at the Cross. This liberty is deliverance from bondage to the flesh man, and deliverance from the demons that rule over the him. Then Jesus went on in (Luk.4:18) … to proclaim release to the captives, and recovering of the sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, (19) to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord. He did not quote the second part of the sentence in (Isa.61:2) To proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God… He only quoted the first half of this verse because the day He was ministering in was the day of the Lord's favor, but in these days we're coming to the second half, “the day of vengeance of our God.” While grace and liberty to the captives are being offered, to the extent that we will humble ourselves to the Word is the extent we can enter into it. The Bible says in (Rev.22:18) I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto them, God shall add unto him the plagues which are written in this book: (19) and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the tree of life, and out of the holy city, which are written in this book. Even though we have authority to cast out demons, there won't be anything lasting you can do for a person who is adding to or taking away from the Word. If you think you are going to deliver them from that curse, then you're deceived, and you haven't read Deuteronomy 28 for yourself. So that person should fill themselves with the Word to keep their gift. It was not the devil who put the curse on this earth; it was God. He sent the curse because of man's rebellion. The curse is designed to motivate us to run to the Cross and to make us run to Jesus Christ, Who has the only antidote for the curse. The world likes to deceive us into thinking they can solve our curses for us, but it's not possible. All the world can do is just shove the curse around without solving a thing, and they're about to see the truth of that now. For example, diseases they thought they had wiped out are coming back, and they're coming back stronger than ever because of man's intervention. And mans so called cure is killing a lot of people.  You see, it's not possible to destroy a curse that God has put out there, but He also sent Jesus Christ to deliver us from that curse when we repent. God is so merciful that He sent the curse to turn us away from the wrath of hell. The devil will laugh at you when you want to deliver somebody who has not repented. It's a waste of breath and time, and I know because I've tried to do it. When you have people who have not repented, it doesn't matter that they call themselves “Christians.” It makes no difference, lasting deliverance from the curse comes by repentance, faith, and obedience. There's no way we can get around that.  Jesus said, (Mat.28:18)… All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth. This does not leave anything for the devil if it is not given to him, since Jesus delegated His authority to us when He said, (Mat.18:18) Verily I say unto you, what things soever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and what things soever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. That was delegating authority to us; so how is it then that the devil gets his authority? He gets it from us. When we walk out from under the Blood and walk in the flesh, submitting to demon spirits, we give the devil authority. The only way to take away his authority in that case is through repentance and faith that Christ delivered us. The apostle Paul, by the Holy Spirit, turned a man over to Satan (1Co.5:5) to deliver such a one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh so that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus. Again, you cannot get around this. If you had come to that man after Paul had turned him over to the devil, thinking to cast out all of the demons from him, you would have been deceived because those demons will literally play with you. Sometimes they'll act as if they are gone, and sometimes they will even come out, but they will not be gone for long. When you turn your head, they're right back, and if you ask them, “Hey, what are you doing? I thought I cast you out of there!” They'll tell you, “No, we have a right to be here. They want us to be here.” Or, “They invited us to be here.” I've actually heard demons say that. The demons know when they have a right, and you'll be wasting your time because they'll just deceive you. What does the Bible say will happen if you cast demons out of a person who does not repent? They may come back seven times worse. (Mat.12:43) But the unclean spirit, when he is gone out of the man, passeth through waterless places, seeking rest, and findeth it not. (44) Then he saith, I will return into my house whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. (45) Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more evil than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man becometh worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this evil generation. These were apostate covenant people. Mere flesh can be dealt with by repentance and faith, but sometimes you find that even when you exercise repentance and faith, you are still not having success. That's because demonic oppression or possession is a compelling bondage that goes beyond just mere flesh. It is still repentance and faith that gets rid of the bondage of a demon spirit, but first you have to take away the “stink” that brings them. The “stink” arises when someone is giving in to the flesh or sin. “Flies” represent demons, and the “flies” come to the stink. Beelzebub, the devil, is known as the “Lord of the Flies.” Scripture calls him “Beelzebub the prince of the demons.” (Mat.12:24) But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This man doth not cast out demons, but by Beelzebub the prince of the demons. As long as you have the stink, the flies will come because they have a right to come. If you repent of the stink and get rid of the stink, that will cast out the demon or demons, and they won't be able to come back. Most deliverance happens when people do not have the foggiest idea that they have ever been delivered of anything. A lot of deliverance happens when people get saved. By the depth of their commitment to Christ, they are delivered of many demon spirits. I, and others close to me, have had demons from which we were delivered. We mentioned a man whom Paul turned over to Satan in 1 Corinthians 5:5. Did you know this man was a Christian? So what was it that caused him to be delivered over to Satan? It was the lusts of his flesh. You are protected if you walk under the Blood of Jesus Christ, but willful disobedience is not under the Blood. The Bible warns in (Heb.10:26) For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more a sacrifice for sins, (27) but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fierceness of fire which shall devour the adversaries. Willful disobedience brings judgment by the “tormentors,” who are demons. (Matthew 18:34) And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due. Demons can bring forth sickness and corruption of all kinds. When Jesus cast out demons, who was receiving that deliverance? Well, what did Jesus say? (Mat.15:24) … I was not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. It was not the Canaanites who lived around them; it was the Israelites, the people who had God's Covenant promise. Jesus said that casting out demons is for God's children. He did not cast demons out of the world, because deliverance is the “children's bread” (Mark 7:27). This makes it clear that the Covenant people were the only people out of whom Jesus was casting demons. Deliverance is what God has provided for His children. The world is not in covenant with God, and they have no right to deliverance, healing, or any of the promises of the New Covenant, nor the blessings of the New Testament. If it is the “children's bread,” then it is not to be given to the world; however, Jesus had to have been awed at the Syrophoenician woman's great faith. Since He was right on the edge of a new covenant, He counted her as a believer and He gave her what she asked. (Mar.7:26) Now the woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by race. And she besought him that he would cast forth the demon out of her daughter. (27) And he said unto her, Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread and cast it to the dogs. (28) But she answered and saith unto him, Yea, Lord; even the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs. (29) And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way; the demon is gone out of thy daughter. The Bible says, (Rom.1:16) For I am not ashamed of the gospel: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. You see, there's a condition in the Gospel that has to be met in order to receive deliverance, healing, soul salvation, and so forth, and that condition is believing what the Gospel says. You may ask, “Does God ever cast a demon out of somebody who does not believe or even think because they are totally possessed?” Yes, He does, but it's usually because they are among the elect and will later believe, like with the demoniac of the tombs (Mark 5:1-20; Matthew 8:28-34; Luke 8:26-39). Sometimes they are oppressing others who have a right to peace. In most cases it takes repentance and belief in order to get deliverance. (Mat.8:16) And when even was come, they brought unto him many possessed with demons: and he cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all that were sick: (17) that it might be fulfilled which was spoken through Isaiah the prophet, saying: Himself took our infirmities, and bare our diseases. This word “our” is talking about us. Christians spoke and wrote these words. Jesus took the curse from us. Did He bear the curse for the world? Yes, but it is ultimately to “whosoever will” (Matthew 16:25; Mark 8:34; Revelation 22:17; etc.) Who is “whosoever will?” The Bible says, (Joh.6:44) No man can come to me, except the Father that sent me draw him… The elect will; this is absolutely clear. The elect are those who bear fruit and were chosen before the foundation of the world, as the Bible says. (Eph.1:3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly [places] in Christ: (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, (6) to the praise of the glory of his grace, which he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved: (7) in whom we have our redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, (8) which he made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, (9) making known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he purposed in him (10) unto a dispensation of the fulness of the times, to sum up all things in Christ, the things in the heavens, and the things upon the earth; in him, [I say,] (11) in whom also we were made a heritage, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his will; (12) to the end that we should be unto the praise of his glory, we who had before hoped in Christ: (13) in whom ye also, having heard the word of the truth, the gospel of your salvation,-- in whom, having also believed, ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, (14) which is an earnest (down payment) of our inheritance, unto the redemption of [God's] own possession, unto the praise of his glory. The “elect” are the overcomers who will be standing at the end of their time of testing (Romans 12:21; 1 John 5:4; Revelation 2:7,11,17,26-28; 3:5,12,21; etc.). Many of the called will not, but the elect will have gotten what Jesus was talking about here because the elect are those who bear fruit. (Mat.22:14) For many are called, but few chosen. The Greek word here for “chosen” is the same word for “elect,” eklektos. Many are the called, as we see from when God called the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10; Hosea 11:1-7). He said in (Mat.2:15) … Out of Egypt did I call my son. He also said in (Jud.1:5) 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. You see, “calling” is not “election”; “calling” is on the way to election. “Calling” just means “an invitation,” from the Greek word klētos, “to invite.” Jesus has invited us to partake of the Body and Blood of Christ. If we do this, we will not have any problem bearing fruit. 2Pe 1:10  Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never stumble:  The Bible says, (2Co.7:1) Having therefore these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. So you may be wondering how a Christian can have a demon and the Holy Spirit at the same time. It's simple; let me explain. The body is a temple. (1Co.6:19) Or know ye not that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit which is in you, which ye have from God? and ye are not your own; (20) for ye were bought with a price: glorify God therefore in your body. The ancient manuscripts say, “a temple of the Holy Spirit” because the Temple was threefold (Exodus chapters 25-27). It had an outer court, a holy place, and the Holy of Holies, and the outer court was called the “Court of the Gentiles” (Revelation 11:2). Were Gentiles holy? No, and we have proof from Old Testament examples that evil people did come into the outer court. They even laid hands on the horns of the altar to receive mercy (1 Kings 1:50; 2 Chronicles 23:12;15; Matthew 23:35), and sometimes they found mercy and other times they did not. So we see that evil could come into the outer court, but it could not come into the Holy of Holies. Some people like to say that the Spirit of God will not dwell in an unclean temple. If you're talking about the flesh, the flesh is unclean and it's also the enemy of God. (Rom.8:6) For the mind of the flesh is death; but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace: (7) because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be: (8) and they that are in the flesh cannot please God. In fact, when the Bible talks about the lusts of the flesh, those lusts have the same nature as the demons do because the flesh is unclean and it's not going to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven. (1Co.15:50) Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Only the “High Priest” Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, dwells in your “Holy of Holies,” your spirit. The demons do not enter into the spirit. Except for the High Priest, anybody who came into the Holy of Holies was struck dead. (Lev.16:2) And the Lord said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at all times into the holy place within the veil, before the mercy-seat which is upon the ark; that he die not: for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy-seat. No evil could go into the Holy of Holies because that was the place of only the High Priest. The Holy Spirit is not dwelling in an unclean temple when He dwells in your spirit. Your spirit is clean. He has to give you a new spirit before He can even come and dwell there. You need to be born again before He can come and dwell in that spirit. (Gal.4:6) And because ye are sons, God sent forth the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Demons come into the flesh with the desire to possess your soul, which is your mind, will, and emotions. The Lord comes into your spirit with the desire to possess your soul. The warfare is between spirit and flesh; God and demons seek to possess the soul. (Act.10:38) Even Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. We've been lied to about the supposed difference between “possession” and “oppression.” “Possession” is when the demon is reaching out of the flesh and into the soul, taking control of the mind, the actions, and the character of the person. If you've ever seen a schizophrenic, where one moment they are given over to the lusts of the flesh, and the next minute they seem to straighten right back up. Is that person possessed or not? They are possessed when that happens and they are not possessed when the demon backs off. The demon is still in them; he hasn't gone anywhere. All he's done is just back out of the soul into the flesh, becoming dormant, and he remains there until the next time he wants to take control. The Holy Spirit is the same way. Just because you have the Holy Spirit does not mean you are being led by the Holy Spirit. Having the Holy Spirit is not even going to save you! (Rom.8:14) For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. You can have the Holy Spirit, but not be led by Him, and it's the same with demons. You can have demons, without the demons being in control. We should desire to give possession of this “land” to the spiritual man (Hebrews 6:4-8). God, through the Spirit, gives our spiritual man the power to possess our soul. When you walk after the flesh, the Bible says you must die. (Rom.8:13) For if ye live after the flesh, ye must die; but if by the Spirit ye put to death the deeds of the body, ye shall live. When you walk after the flesh, you permit the demon's power to reach into your soul to take control of your thinking, actions, and character, your very nature. In the world they call this “schizophrenia,” but it's demon possession. There is only one nature that is the “real you”. The demons like to come into Christians and impart their own thoughts to deceive them into thinking that this is their nature. The demons give themselves up to the lusts of the flesh and then rule the Christians by speaking in their minds and blending into their characters so that they do not even know that it is them. Christians think it's themselves, but those demons can be forced to manifest by the Authority of God. Some of you may have heard or seen the Gospel being preached and demons manifesting in Christians. They are forced to manifest because they hate the Gospel. They hate tongues and they hate the Blood of Jesus. They hate all things that are Godly. If you learn the things that they hate, those are your best weapons against them. Some of you have already found out that these demons can hide in you very tactfully, convincing you that their thinking is your thinking. Thoughts coming through your mind might seem to be yours, but when forced to manifest by the Word of God, you realize they're coming from a demon. Where the Word of God is tormenting these demons, they will manifest, and this is exactly what happened in Jesus' Presence. The Word of God forced them to manifest. (Mat.8:28) And when he was come to the other side into the country of the Gadarenes, there met him two possessed with demons, coming forth out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man could pass by that way. (29) And behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time? If you have a repentant person and you command these demons to give their name and to manifest in some way, they will do it. If they have never been commanded to manifest, you may have never actually felt their presence. When they are commanded to do so, they will literally speak out of a person and give their name, but they'll also argue with you and lie to you. They will do all the things that demons like to do. Now it's helpful to have other people alongside, but you can deliver yourself because we have that authority. (2Co.7:1) Having therefore these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. If you suspect something is more than just flesh, then exercise your authority and command those demons to go. Sometimes they will speak in your mind, or you'll get their name in your mind. Sometimes their names will come right out of the person's mouth. Many times, a strong, compelling desire turns out to be a demon, not the flesh, but the devil wants you to think that it is only flesh. We are in the process, called “sanctification,” of being delivered of two things: defilement of flesh and spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1). But is your spirit defiled? If you are a Christian, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in a new, clean spirit Who is called the Spirit of Christ in you. (Gal.4:6) And because ye are sons, God sent forth the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, Abba, Father. This is a Christian. God says, (Eze.36:26) A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh. 27  And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes… Notice, a “new spirit” and then “My Spirit” or the Holy Spirit. You do not have a defiled spirit, so why does Scripture say to Christians, “let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit”? It's because this defilement of spirit is talking about the defilement of you by demon spirits. This is not talking about the defilement of your spirit because your spirit is the only part of you that is totally white and clean. If it is not, you are not a Christian. The defilement that we have the authority to get rid of is the defilement of our souls by the flesh and evil spirits. Do you know what “self” is in the Bible? It is a synonymous term for the word “soul.” One Gospel will say “self” and another Gospel will say “soul” in a same text in another Gospel. “Self” and “soul” are the same. We want to be delivered of all defilement of our soul by both flesh and spirits. (Col.3:5) Put to death therefore your members which are upon the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry; (6) for which things' sake cometh the wrath of God upon the sons of disobedience: (7) wherein ye also once walked, when ye lived in these things; (8) but now do ye also put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, railing, shameful speaking out of your mouth: (9) lie not one to another; seeing that ye have put off the old man with his doings, (10) and have put on the new man, that is being renewed unto knowledge after the image of him that created him. The Bible tells us in (Eph.4:27) Neither give place to the devil. The Greek word “place” there is a geographic term meaning “region” or “area.” This is the exact thing God talked about when He was cleansing the Promised Land from the pagan tribes that controlled it. (Deu.7:1) When the Lord thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and shall cast out many nations before thee, the Hittite, and the Girgashite, and the Amorite, and the Canaanite, and the Perizzite, and the Hivite, and the Jebusite, seven nations greater and mightier than thou… All these “ites” had their demonic “gods” (Deuteronomy 32:17). If you leave a place for the lusts of the flesh to live in your land, you are going to sin because they will make you sin, so we are not to leave them any place in our land. (Deu.7:2) And when the Lord thy God shall deliver them up before thee, and thou shalt smite them; then thou shalt utterly destroy them: thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor show mercy unto them; (3) neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son. (4) For he will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and he will destroy thee quickly. When Jesus delivered the woman with a “spirit of infirmity” in (Luke 13:11), He said in (Luk.13:16) And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan had bound, lo, [these] eighteen years, to have been loosed from this bond on the day of the sabbath? Jesus called this woman a “daughter of Abraham,” and you might think, “Well, He's just talking about Jews,” yet Jesus never called the literal, physical Jews “daughters and sons of Abraham.” These Jewish leaders and their followers were professing Abraham to be their father, but Jesus totally disagreed with them because a daughter or son of Abraham, like the woman He loosed, is someone who is truly in covenant with God. (Joh.8:38) I speak the things which I have seen with [my] Father: and ye also do the things which ye heard from [your] father. (39) They answered and said unto him, Our father is Abraham. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham. Here's the point: “Ye would do the works of Abraham.” (Joh.8:40) But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I heard from God: this did not Abraham. (41) Ye do the works of your father. They said unto him, We were not born of fornication; we have one Father, [even] God. (42) Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I came forth and am come from God; for neither have I come of myself, but he sent me. (43) Why do ye not understand my speech? [Even] because ye cannot hear my word. (44) Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father it is your will to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and standeth not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father thereof. Paul said the same thing; he said that people who walk by faith are the sons of Abraham. (Gal.3:7) Know therefore that they that are of faith, the same are sons of Abraham. Jesus never disagreed with this. This woman who was loosed, got her deliverance because she was a daughter of Abraham. The people who were coming to Jesus were Covenant people, just as we are Covenant people. They had the right of the Covenant and therefore they got healing and deliverance from God. We are proving ourselves through this “trial in the wilderness,” through the things that we're going through, to be either sons of Abraham or sons of the devil. The Bible says in (1Jn.2:6) He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also to walk even as he walked. Sons of the devil in the world have no Covenant rights, and you're just casting the children's bread to the dogs when you try to deliver an unrepentant person (Mark 7:27). You'll have the same problem, too, if you're trying to give deliverance to a Christian who is unrepentant. We are proving who are overcomers, those who truly belong to Christ. They are going to be the ones who are proven to be the Elect of God (Philippians 2:12; 2 Peter 1:10). We can prove ourselves just as much sons of the devil by our actions as these people proved themselves sons of the devil by their actions. Jesus pointed out to them, “No, if you were of your father Abraham, you would do the works of Abraham!” Amen.

What does a faith-filled life really look like? In this message from Acts 18, we explore four powerful marks of a life that's fully committed to Jesus: personal devotion to God, boldness in sharing our faith, encouragement for fellow believers, and a willingness to send others into their God-given calling. Through the examples of Paul, Priscilla, Aquila, and Apollos, we see how faith isn't meant to stay private or stagnant—it's meant to grow, strengthen others, and multiply. This message challenges us to reflect: Which mark is God calling me to grow in?Support the show

Www.faithbucks.com 1 Corinthians 3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. 3:2 I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. 3:3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 3:4 For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? 3:7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. 3:8 Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. 3:11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 3:12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; 3:13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. 3:14 If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 3:15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. 3:16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 3:17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. 3:18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. 3:19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.

In Ephesus a capable evangelist, Apollos, is effectively preaching the Gospel, yet without a full understanding of Baptism. A couple in ministry, Pricilla and Aquila, step in to fill out his understanding. Apollos demonstrates an ability to be correct, to learn and grow in knowledge and in ministry.

“I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work.” (1 Corinthians 3:6–8 NLT) In the process of preaching the gospel, every Christian plays a part. Some of us sow seeds. Others water seeds that have already been sown. And still others have the privilege of reaping the seeds that have already been sown and watered. In 1 Corinthians 3, the apostle Paul addressed a problem that was causing divisions among the believers in Corinth. Some Christians there were identifying themselves as followers of him, Paul. Others were identifying themselves as followers of Apollos. And still others were identifying themselves as followers of Peter. These believers thought that their allegiance to a particular leader made them morally and spiritually superior to their fellow Christians. In his response to this burgeoning cult of personality, Paul gives us an important glimpse into the nature of evangelism. Look what he says in verses 6–7: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase” (NKJV). Paul made it clear that he and Apollos (and Peter) were simply laborers, planting and nurturing the seeds of the gospel. God was the one who made the seeds grow. Therefore, He was the One the people needed to follow. But the principle of sowing seeds and trusting God to make them grow still applies today. Sharing our faith with others is a personal investment. It often involves opening up about private matters and making ourselves vulnerable to rejection. It’s only natural that we’d want to see dividends from our investment—to see the seed we planted sprout and grow before our very eyes. But that doesn’t always happen. And sometimes if we don’t see immediate results, we grow frustrated. We question whether the seed has taken root. We wonder why God isn’t blessing our efforts. But remain steadfast, Christian. God is trustworthy. The seed that we sow today may not be reaped in our lifetime. It may grow after we’re in Heaven. That may be when the nonbeliever that we loved, nurtured, and shared the gospel with will come to faith. Then again, that nonbeliever might come to faith tomorrow. The timing is out of our hands. As Paul made clear to the believers in Corinth, it doesn’t matter who sows or waters the seeds of the gospel, as long as the work is being done. That’s not where the credit goes. The credit goes to the One who makes the seeds grow. Our responsibility is to sow the seed of the gospel in as many lives as possible and then leave the results to God. Reflection question: How was the seed of the gospel planted in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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1 Corinthians11:17–22 (ESV) — 17 But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. 18 For, in the first place, when youcome together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you. And I believe it in part, 19 for there must be factions among you in order that those who are genuine among you may be recognized. 20 When you come together, it is not the Lord's supper that you eat. 21 For in eating, each one goes ahead with his own meal. One goes hungry, another gets drunk. 22 What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I commend you in this? No, I will not. 1 Corinthians10:6 (ESV) — 6 Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. BEWARNED BY CORINTH'S EXAMPLE AS YOU PREPARE FOR WORSHIP OF CHRIST TOGETHER! (1)    DON'T NEGLECT THE LOCAL GATHERING (v17,18,19,20,22)REMEMBER THE TRES LECHUGAS1.        Let usDraw near!  in full assurances andcleansed in conscience and action!  (Hebrews10:22  Ephesians 3:7-13)2.        Let usHold fast! Don't waver in hope! Because he has promised and he  is faithful! (Hebrews 10:23  1 Timothy 3:14-16)3.        Let usStir one another!  To love and gooddeeds, encouraging one another all the more as we wait… (Eph. 4:11-16) Hebrews 10:24–25 (ESV) — 24 And let us considerhow to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, butencouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.  (2)   DON'T BE THE SOURCE OR SUPPORT OF FACTIONS… BUTTAKE REST IN THE WISDOM OF GOD.  (v18-19)Matthew 18:7 (ESV) — 7 “Woe to the world for temptations to sin! For it is necessary that temptations come, but woe to the one by whom the temptation comes!1 Corinthians 3:16–23 (ESV) — 16 Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? 17 Ifanyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple. 18Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it iswritten, “He catches the wise in their craftiness,” 20 and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that theyare futile.” 21 So let no one boast in men. For all things are yours, 22 whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, 23 and you are Christ's, and Christ is God's.  (3)    DON'T COME SELF FOCUSED/ SERVING,  BUT CHRIST ORIENTED AND OTHERS SERVING (v20-21)-             Not the Lord's Table   (1) Self -satisfying ignoring the needs of others   (2) Self- indulging   (4)     DON'T IGNORE HIS PROVISION OF YOUR SPACE FORAUTONOMY (v22) 22 What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in?  (5)    DON'T COME IN ARROGANCE AGAINST HIS CHOICES AND COMPASSION TO YOU(v22) 22 What! …Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing?  (6)     INSTEAD BE ATTENTIVE TO JESUS' PREPARATION AT THETABLE (v23)1 Corinthians 11:23 (ESV) — 23 For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread…

As we continue our journey through Acts today, we're introduced to a man named Apollos. Maybe you can relate to his issues. You've gotten caught up in ceremony and religion, and forgotten that you need a Messiah and that Messiah is Jesus Christ. We are beginning our final message in Acts chapter eighteen today. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/621/29

But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.2 Corinthians 9:6-7It's apparent in Scripture that there is a “planting” aspect with our generosity. It's not just kissing money goodbye, but there is a harvest (increase) the Lord adds to us through our generosity. However, just like planting a garden, once you plant,  there is cultivation of the seed that is necessary. This is the watering process. Just as Paul mentioned in 1 Corinthians 3, “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.” It's God's responsibility to bring the increase, but it's our responsibility to plant and water the seed. But what does this look like? In this message, Pastor Cory talks about the importance and practicality of watering the seed of the Word in our lives.  Support the show

Acts 19:1-7 English Standard VersionPaul in Ephesus19 And it happened that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the inland country and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples. 2 And he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 And he said, “Into what then were you baptized?” They said, “Into John's baptism.” 4 And Paul said, “John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.” 5 On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying.7 There were about twelve men in all.English Standard Version (ESV)The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. 

Our oldest son just celebrated his 37th birthday and told us over dinner what he considers the two most important and impactful things his dad and I did for him growing up, so I'm unpacking both this week's episode. I hope you'll listen in. Show Notes VERSES CITED James 1:23-25 -“For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who ....” Psalms 1:3 - “...his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” Matthew 5:20 - “Unless your righteousness surpasses the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees....” Matthew 23:27 - “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs....” Romans 8:26 - "...the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans too deep for words." Deuteronomy 11:18-21 - “Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and....” Proverbs 22:6 - "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." Psalm 51:10 - “Create in me a clean heart, O God!" Romans 8:28 - "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God...." 1 Corinthians 3:6 - "I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth." Matthew 25:23 - "Well done, my good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Master.” RELATED LINKS: Lies Women Believe by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth EP 28: Bible Memory Tips & Tricks EP 85: Memorize Proverbs 3 with Me EP 55: Smoothing Your Child's Passage to Adulthood 31 Verses to Pray over Your Child Praying for Your Unborn Child Praying for Your Children from Head to Toe Our Teens Need Prayer Praying for Your Adult Child STAY CONNECTED: Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, lprintables Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 18 The apostle Paul continues his second missionary journey, focusing on Corinth, where he meets Aquila and Priscilla, Jewish tentmakers expelled from Rome. Paul stays with them, working as a tentmaker while teaching in the synagogue every Sabbath. Although some oppose him, Paul stays committed, preaching to Jews and Gentiles and guiding many to Christ, including a leader of the synagogue named Crispus. God instructs Paul in a vision to stay in Corinth, promising his protection, and Paul teaches there for eighteen months. Afterward, he travels to Ephesus, where he teaches briefly before completing his journey to Caesarea and Antioch. Meanwhile, Apollos, an eloquent preacher in Ephesus, is taught more accurately about the gospel by Aquila and Priscilla. Apollos goes on to powerfully refute the Jews in defense of Jesus as Christ.  Paul's time in Corinth serves as a guide for sharing the gospel today. He reasoned with religious individuals who were misinformed about the truth; some believed, like the synagogue leader, while others resisted. When opposition arose, Paul turned to the Gentiles, sharing the gospel with many who embraced it. God protected and used him in this work. We should engage with believers who lack the full truth, as Priscilla and Aquila later did with Apollos. This is meaningful work for God. However, if they refuse to listen, do not stop teaching about Jesus—focus your efforts on people who have yet to know the Lord. There is always an opportunity and a need to share the truth about Jesus Christ.   Benevolent Lord, thank You for providing us with all we need to carry out Your will in this life. Paul found companions such as Priscilla and Aquila, Silas, and Timothy on his journey. Thank You for the faithful workers who have been there to assist us in serving You. Help us to lean on them, learn from them, and be of help to them as we all strive to stand strong for Jesus and share His beloved gospel with the world. Many do not want to listen, and we often feel discouraged. Encourage us to keep working by Your grace.   Thought Questions: -       The most common instruction in scripture is in today's read, “Do not be afraid” (v9). Why not? Is God with you? How do you know? -       Gallio, like many Gentile leaders, had little interest in the gospel. Why is it so difficult for people in power to surrender to Christ? -       What does it say about Apollos that he listened to correction and altered his teaching? Is that something you may also have to do?

Bible Study: (2:56) Acts 19:1 – Apollos was a Jew from Alexandria from Ephesus who had been baptized with the baptism of John and had not received the Holy Spirit. He ends up being a very important member of the Church. John baptized with a baptism of repentance and that is what we see in the Gospel of John. John the Baptist is constantly saying in the Gospel of John that he is not the Messiah. Break 1 Letters: (25:05) David – Has a question about Evangelism and introducing someone to prayer. (31:04) Jim – Does each cardinal consider a name he would choose as Pope just in case? (33:30) Does the Pope have to take a new name? (38:57) – Why are you down on people calling themselves “pet parents”. Break 2 (38:57) Word Of the Day – Take Courage Phones: (41:15) Roy - Does the Catholic Church believe in speaking in tongues. (44:11) Anne - It takes away the dignity of human life to use 'pet mom'. (48:09) – Marie - what’s the difference between presumption and trust?

6/1/25. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: 1 Corinthians 16:12. Concerning Apollos. Resources: biblehub.com; logos.com; ChatGPT; and Life Application Study Bible. Listen daily at 10:00 am CST on https://kingdompraiseradio.com. November 2021 Podchaser list of "60 Best Podcasts to Discover!" LISTEN, LIKE, FOLLOW, SHARE! #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailybiblestudy #dailydevotional #christianpodcaster #diversity https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK9zaXqv64YaCjh88XIJckA/videos https://m.youtube.com/@hhwscott

Ahhh, Nantucket! My wife and I had some wonderful, romantic times on that picturesque little island 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod in Massachusetts. The little village of Nantucket is just full of colonial charm. And everywhere you look you find reminders of its glory days in the whaling industry. I was surprised to learn, though, that during those glory days most of the town actually burned to the ground, right to the docks. It was a tragedy that nearly put Nantucket out of business. But it was a tragedy that never had to happen. It was an ugly, four-letter word that ultimately destroyed Nantucket, and the word wasn't fire. It's a word that's still destroying things. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "No Turf In His Kingdom." Turf. Yep, that's what destroyed Nantucket Village many years ago. See, when the fire companies arrived at the site of the blaze that day, the fire was still small. But the firefighters got into an argument over who got to use the fire hydrants. They all wanted to be the heroes. Duh! And while they were fighting over turf, literally, the fire spread and they lost the town. That's hard to believe isn't it? But it's true. Or is it that hard to believe? Losing the town while the rescuers fight over turf. That's still happening today, and it's not a new problem. It's talked about in our word for today in the Word of God, 1 Corinthians 1:10-13. "I appeal to you, brothers," Paul said," in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. My brothers, some of Chloe's household have informed me there are quarrels among you." Sadly, this tendency for God's people to fragment into camps and different groups, to focus on their differences, to get entangled in quarrels, has infected Christ's church for 2,000 years. And we tend to operate as if only our group, our leader, is right. Paul said here, "One of you says, 'I follow Paul'; another, 'I follow Apollos'; another, 'I follow Cephas"; and still another, 'I follow Christ'" (that was the really spiritual group.) "Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized into the name of Paul?" The apostle seems to be saying, "Folks, can't you see? It's all about Jesus! This turf thing is tearing His Body apart!" It was this turf pride that allowed a fire to destroy Nantucket Village while the rescuers argued with each other. Well, today our world is burning down. Lost people are farther from Christ than ever, but we have more means of rescuing them than ever before! So where are the spiritual firefighters? They're fighting over turf. We're so concerned about our organization, our denomination, our church, our group's doctrinal distinctives, the agenda of our group, getting the credit so we can get the glory, or maybe the donations, or loyalty to human leaders rather than to the Lord who raised up those leaders. And meanwhile, a lost world is burning down around us. This has to break the heart of God. There's probably 90% Bible-based Christians agree on, maybe 10% we disagree on. Why do we have to spend 90% of our energy on the 10% we disagree on? That's what makes us "us." We're surrounded by a life-or-death situation! And like the people at Ground Zero when the towers came down, we need to pull together for a desperate rescue operation! Turf does not matter when people are dying! It's time to unite our resources to defeat a militant and united enemy; to get the attention of neighbors who know nothing about the cross, replacing "My kingdom come" with "Thy kingdom come!" There's no stopping God's people when they're united; there's no stomaching God's people when they're divided into hundreds of little personal kingdoms. The town's on fire, folks! The firemen have got to work together!

Patrick shared a quick but oh-so-needed reflection that will resonate deeply. He read a recent interview from Vatican News featuring Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo (from Africa), about that ever-present buzz around division in the Church. The real story is way deeper than the drama on your social media feed. Media vs. Reality: Not the Same Thing Cardinal Ambongo said this: “The press often claims the Church is divided between conservatives and progressives... These categories do not exist among the Cardinals themselves.” Whoa. So, while social media might make it seem like the Church is at war with itself (team trad vs. team modern, etc.), the actual Cardinals are not playing that game. According to the Cardinal, what really happened at the conclave (you know, the one that just gave us Pope Leo XIV) was unity. Not fake, PR-crafted unity, but a shared love for Jesus Christ. The Church = A Person, Not a Platform Cardinal Ambongo gets to the heart of it: “The Church is not an ideology... but rather an attachment to a person, and that person is Jesus Christ.” Can we get an Amen? This isn’t about being “Team Benedict” or “Team Francis” or “Team Trad Latin Mass Only.” The real “team” is: Team Jesus. At the end of the day, Jesus didn’t ask Peter, “Do you have the right liturgical preference?” He asked, “Do you love me?” Patrick’s Take: Strive for Unity, Not Cliques Patrick ties it back to Scripture: St. Paul calling out early Christians for splitting into camps (remember “I’m with Apollos!” “I’m with Cephas!” etc.). Paul shut that down hard because it missed the point: It’s all about Christ. Patrick’s challenge for us? Even when the online world feels loud, snarky, and divided... especially within Catholic circles, we have to remember our purpose. And live like it. It’s Jesus. Period. Final Word If you’ve been feeling a little disheartened by all the Catholic infighting online, let this be your reminder: the Body of Christ is bigger than our factions. Like Patrick said: this is also an ideal to strive for. Let’s get back to what unites us. Want more thoughtful commentary like this? Catch The Patrick Madrid Show live weekdays on the Relevant Radio app, 8–11am CT. Because in a noisy world, we could all use a little more truth... and a little less X/Twitter.