Podcasts about apostle john

Here on the Unchanging Word Bible Broadcast Dr. John G. Mitchell expounds Revelation chapter 6 verses 7 thru 11.The Apostle John writes concerning the 4th and 5th seals which the Lord opened in heaven. The events of these seals will take place on earth, but they are revealed to John in heaven. Dr. Mitchell will speak of the fourth seal. Here death and hades kills 1/4 of the world's population. At the time Dr. Mitchell spoke, the world population was around 4 billion. As of now, it is over 7.5 billion. When the Lord opens the 5th seal, a different sight appears. Here are the souls of those who had been slaughtered because of the Word of God and the witness they had maintained. They were alive in heaven and speaking to the Lord crying out for Him to avenge their death upon the earth dwellers. Let's turn to Rev.6:7 with Dr. Mitchell.

Near the end of his life, the Apostle John was exiled on an island. Jesus appeared to him in a vision and instructed him to write down letters for seven churches. These letters are as relevant today a

Revelation chapter 6 is our focus in this lesson with Dr. John G. Mitchell.You are listening to the Unchanging Word Bible Broadcast. Here in chapter 6, the Apostle John writes how he watched when the Lamb opened the first seal on the scroll. He then heard one of the four living creatures say "Come". So, At his command, a white horse appears.After a brief overview of what we have studied so far in chapters 1 thru 5, Dr. Mitchell will give us an understanding of the first 3 seals that Jesus opens and the judgments they represent .Dr. Mitchell takes us to Jesus' own words in Mt. 24 which He spoke to his disciples which also speak of the beginnings of the judgments of God.Let's open our Bibles and join Dr. Mitchell in Revelation chapter 6.

Revelation 1 gives us a breathtaking vision of Jesus—glorified, powerful, and present—reminding us that a clear view of Him brings clarity to everything else. Written by the Apostle John during persecution, this “unveiling” wasn't about predicting the future, but encouraging faith in the present. Jesus is revealed as the exalted Prophet, Priest, and King who walks among His people and holds the Church close. He sees the Church not as an institution, but as His Body, His Building, and His Bride—imperfect, yet deeply precious to Him.

There are lots of opinions when it comes to the man, Jesus of Nazareth.  However, only one opinion is actually true!  In his New Testament letter, the Apostle John lets us know how to discern truth from lies when it comes to answering the question, “Who was/is Jesus?”

Hey y'all ! Welcome to another Friday with CWCOI ! In this week's episode, our host, Ally Yost reads the entire book of 1 John. This book is a letter in the New Testament written by the Apostle John. Although it is only five chapters, it is full of encouragement, truth, and wisdom. It emphasizes the importance of loving one another and fellowship with God. So grab your Bibles if you're able to and let's read together :) "If someone says, “I love God,” but hates a fellow believer, that person is a liar; for if we don't love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see? And he has given us this command: Those who love God must also love their fellow believers." 1 John 4:20-21 _____________________________________________  ☆ REP CWCOI MERCH ➤ https://allyyost.com ☆ MY BIBLE (code ‘ALLYYOST' at checkout) ➤ https://hosannarevival.com/collections/beautiful-bibles/products/nlt-notetaking-bible-versailles-theme  ☆ TUMBLER LINK ➤ https://allyyost.com/products/travel-tumbler ☆ JESUS FREAKS | OFFICIAL TRAILER ➤ https://youtu.be/DbbJHm0WfJg?si=ErjC8Z9_TmC5VLar ☆ EARLY ACCESS TO EPISODES AND BONUS PERKS ➤ https://patreon.com/CWCOI  ☆ GIVE TO CWCOI ➤ https://www.paypal.me/CWCOI _____________________________________________  Connect further with us ! TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@christwithcoffeeonice  Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/christwithcoffeeonice _____________________________________________  Connect further with Ally !  TikTok (2M) ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@ally_yost  Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/ally_yost/  ShopMy ➤ https://shopmy.us/allyyost Pinterest ➤ https://www.pinterest.com/ally_yost1/_created/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What really matters when this life ends? It's not what you packed in your garage or how full your calendar was — it's what you took with you that counts. In this powerful message from 1 John 4:7-21, we're reminded that God is love, and love perfected in us brings confidence—not fear—on the day of judgment. ✔ What does Christian maturity really look like? ✔ Can we have certainty about our eternal future? ✔ How do we live a life now that reflects the love of God and the reality of judgment later? We'll unpack the Apostle John's heartfelt message, explore our identity as children and friends of God, and confront the often-ignored truth: We're all on spiritual probation. But we can live with confidence, not condemnation, because of what Jesus has already accomplished. ✝️ Takeaway: You can take some things with you — namely, a confident heart, rooted in God's love and faithfulness.

Introduction: The Trustworthiness Test (Matthew 5:33-37): Do I Need to CONVINCE OTHERS of the TRUTHFULNESS of what I say? (Matt 5:33–34a) Do I Look for LOOPHOLES to GET OUT of what I say? (Matt 5:34b–36) Matthew 23:22 – And whoever swears by heaven swears by the throne of God and by him who sits upon it. 1 Peter 2:22 – He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. Do I Always FOLLOW THROUGH on what I say? (Matt 5:37) James 5:12 – But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation. John 8:44 – You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead Matthew 5:33-37What was your big take-away from this passage / message?How can you strengthen your reputation when it comes to honesty and trustworthiness? How can you weaken it?Do you ever make excuses or look for loopholes to get out of what you say?Do you struggle with being a “yes or no” person? How do you fail to be reliable and follow through on what you say?What does it look like to truly repent of deception and make things right with those you have lied to?BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Return your Bibles to Matthew chapter 5 verses 33 through 37.Matthew chapter 5 verses 33 through 37.Is it safe to say that trust is in short supply in 2025?We are constantly bombarded with lies, conspiracies, fraud,lame excuses, propaganda, cover-ups.With each passing year, we become less and less trustingas others seem less and less trustworthy.I was going to use an object lesson to prove this point,but for the sake of unity, which you'll see in a minutewhy I'm not doing this, I'm going to have you use your imaginations instead.Imagine with me that a bunch of images are from the screens behind meof famous individuals, politicians, billionaires, tech gurus, celebrities,social media influencers, world-renowned doctors,and popular preachers who you see pop up on Spotify, YouTube, and television.And with each image, with each person, I ask this very simple question,is this person trustworthy?And with some of these famous people, the answer would be a decisive yes,while others would be a resounding no.But some examples may prove to be a bit controversial and divisive.It may be a bit of a mixed reaction, which could lead to some frustration,heated debates, and strained relationships.Hence my unwillingness to show these images in service today.What if I were to close out this slideshow with a picture of you?And for the final time, I ask this very simple question, is this person trustworthy?What would be the response?What would your family members, friends, and fellow church members say about you?Maybe you don't want to play along with my made-up scenario,because you're afraid of what other people would say about you.But you cannot be oblivious in this area of life, because your reputation,when it comes to honesty and trustworthiness, is not a throwaway issue.Your credibility with others on the outside speaks to your integrity before the Lord on the inside.We've been studying the Sermon on the Mount for the past few months,and now this is the fourth week of our latest section, "The Heart of the Law."And throughout Matthew chapter 5, Jesus doesn't lessen the Old Testament law.He elevates it. He doesn't abolish it and throw it away.He digs down deep into our hearts to show how it applies at the deepest levels of who we are.Jesus proves that obeying God's commands and displaying true righteousness are matters of the heart.Jesus cares way more about the internal than the external,because who you are internally shapes all that you say and do externally.So far, we have covered what Christ commands and expects when it comes to anger,sexuality, and marriage.In Matthew chapter 5, verses 33 through 37,the Lord turns your attention to what he has to say about making promises and keeping your word.To help you gauge your own personal credibility, Jesus assigns an important testthat you cannot afford to skip or to fail.And this test is the trustworthiness test.Before we dig into the first question, let's go to the Lord in prayer.Please pray that I will faithfully proclaim God's word.While I pray that you will faithfully and joyfully receive God's word.Father, we thank you for the gift of your word.It is a mirror that you hold up to our hearts to show us what means to change.Lord, this morning you're going to show us some very challenging and difficult things about ourselvesthat we do not want to see,but we must recognize them and we must make changes by the power of your Holy Spirit.So may you do the work that only you can.We ask all these things in Jesus' name. Amen.All right, who is ready for the trustworthiness test?Well, we're going to take it anyway. So the trustworthiness test, question one.Do I need to convince others of the truthfulness of what I say?Do I need to convince others of the truthfulness of what I say?Let's read verses 33 through 34.Jesus says, "Again, you have heard that it was said to those of old,'You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.'But I say to you, do not take an oath at all."This is the fourth time in Matthew chapter 5 that Jesus repeats the same verbal pattern."You have heard that it was said, but I say to you."So let's cover what was said in the past."You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn."You will not find this exact sentence word for word in the Old Testamentbecause it is a mashup of three different passages about keeping oaths.With the Nicos 19-2, Numbers chapter 30 verse 2 and Deuteronomy 23-21.In the Old Testament, oath taking was serious business.It wasn't something to be entered into lightly or carelessly.Vows were reserved for important matters.And God put them in place as a first line of defense against dishonesty.I find it helpful to view Old Testament oaths like spiritual speed bumps.Why do speed bumps exist?To cause you to slow down and keep pedestrian safe.Let me ask you, do speed bumps always do that?No, we've all seen maniacs treat speed bumps like challenges and jumps instead of warnings.And maybe you've been that maniac from time to time.Oaths were set up by God to curb the natural tendency to be deceitful and unreliable.They were like speed bumps.By taking an oath, you were saying,"God, you can bring judgment and cursing upon me if I do not keep my side of the bargain."But these spiritual speed bumps could not stop all dishonesty.It couldn't do away with people being deceitful.So vows help provide accountability, but they could not change the human heart,which is seen most clearly in the lives of the religious leaders of Jesus' day.The rabbis, the scribes, the Pharisees misinterpreted the Old Testament commands about vowsand twisted God's word to advance their own dishonest agenda.They believe that you shall not swear falsely, only spoke to perjuring yourself in a court of law.We'll talk about this in even greater detail in a few minutes,but they also believe that the instruction you shall perform to the Lord what you have swornleft some room for coloring outside the lines when it came to keeping your word.If you weren't in a court setting or you didn't make vows directly to Godand in His name there was some wiggle room to tell some lies.It wasn't ideal, but hey, not a big deal.As long as you said the right things and as long as you kept their man-made rules.Once again, the religious leaders are taking God's word, taking His commandsand putting it into their own man-made box.Their standards were shallow and their righteousness was phony.But Jesus calls His followers to a greater righteousness, to a higher standardwhen He says, "But I say to you, do not take an oath at all."This command brings up an important question that we have to answer.Is Jesus saying that it's always sinful to make a promise or a vow of any kind at any time?Well, some Christians, some scholars and pastors certainly think so,but that's a really hard stance to defend from the rest of Scripture.The Apostle Paul kept and he made and kept a vow in Acts 18-18.In Revelation chapter 10 verses 5 through 6, the Apostle John records an angel swearing enough.In the Old Testament, God made oaths to show the seriousness of His covenant promises.God didn't do that because he had a shaky reputation.He lovingly did that to give His people a rock-solid confidence in His trustworthinessand the certainty of His purposes and His plans.God's vows were like exclamation points that highlighted His credibilitybecause we so often do not trust Him even though His track record is flawless.The Lord established the Old Covenant with Israel and He has established a new covenant with all who believein the life, death, and resurrection of His Son.And at its core, a covenant is an oath-bound relationship that is built upon promises being keptand the Bible is crystal clear that God always keeps His promises.And speaking of covenants, the Bible describes marriage as a covenant relationshipwhich means that as a good and godly thing, you swear your devotion to your spouse.You know, 11 years ago, Pastor Jeff married my wife and Iand when he asked me to repeat my vows to Kate after him, I didn't say, "Whoa, wait preacher boy,I don't make promises or take vows. Don't you study the Bible for a living?Shouldn't you know that? Pass." Did I do that? Jeff, do you remember that? I don't think I did that.Let's move from the marriage ceremony to the courtroom.I'm called to testify in a very important case and the judge tells me to raise my right handand he asked me, "Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth so help you God?"What should I say?Sorry, judge. I'm a Christian. I can't do that. You may as well call the next witness. I'm out of here. Deuces.Is that going to go very well with the judge?Listen, Jesus is not condemning vows in the context of a courtroom or a wedding ceremony.Jesus is forbidding the practice of taking frivolous oaths and making pointless promises in everyday life situations.He's saying, "Do not be the kind of person who needs to swear on something or someone to be believed.Do not be the kind of person who needs to clarify that you're not lying.Who needs to clarify that you're telling the truth.Be so trustworthy that your word can be taken at face value without jumping through hoops.As a follower of Christ, you shouldn't need the spiritual speed bumps of promises, oaths, and vows to be taken seriously.You should be a person of such great integrity that promises are unnecessary because your past performance speaks for itself.Others should trust you implicitly because you have proven yourself explicitly.Your heart should be so full of the truth that lying doesn't even register as a valid option to choose or path to take.For the Christian, honesty is like breathing.You inhale the truth of God's word and then you exhale the truth in every situation.You don't tell white lies because you understand that there are no such thing as white lies.Every lie, no matter how small, is a huge deal to the Lord.You don't embellish your stories or add on extra details to impress people because who cares what other people think about you.What matters most is what God thinks about you.And He knows what you're saying is not true.You don't cut corners at work because you ultimately serve the Lord of all creation who sees everything,not the human boss across the hall who cannot see into your heart.You cannot control much in this life, but you do have the ability to deepen your credibility or destroy it,to strengthen it day by day or to willingly weaken it.You have no right to be offended when someone doesn't believe you if you have a shady history of saying things that are not trueand making promises that you didn't keep.You are simply reaping the consequences of what you have sown.You are receiving the label of untrustworthy, which is a title that you have repeatedly earned.The trustworthiness test.Move on to the second question.And it will not be easier than the first.Do I look for loopholes to get out of what I say?Do I look for loopholes to get out of what I say?So Jesus pulls the rug out from underneath the religious leaders and exposes their ridiculous schemes in verses 34 through 36.But I say to you, do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God,or by the earth, for it is His footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great king.And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black.As I said earlier, the scribes and Pharisees were experts at looking for loopholes and creating escape patches to get out of what they said,especially if what they said wasn't made in a court setting.So instead of swearing in God's name, they would swear by heaven, they would swear by the earth, the city of Jerusalem, or even their own heads.In their minds, swearing on these things was not binding like swearing in God's name.This is the verbal equivalent of crossing your fingers behind your back whenever you make a promise.They thought they were so clever. They found their own get out of oaths free card.But Jesus shows them that this line of thinking is childish and dumb.He destroys their loopholes and he closes their escape patches.Let's follow his logic.Jesus says, "Do not swear by heaven because who does heaven belong to?"All right. I know it's early. I'm going to ask that question again.Who does heaven belong to?It is His throne.And Matthew actually reinforces this later on when Jesus says,"And whoever swears by heaven swears by the throne of God and by him who sits on it."He also says, "Don't swear by the earth because who does it belong to?"Once again, I'm going to try it again. Who does the earth belong to, everyone?It is His footstool. God is so awesome. He is so big.The earth is like a teeny tiny ottoman where He puts His feet up.The earth belongs to God, so don't swear by it.It's also not a great idea to swear by Jerusalem because who does it belong to?Great job, everyone.The king of Jerusalem, the king of the earth, and that is God.You swear by Jerusalem. You swear by the one who created and rules over Israel.And He also says, "Don't swear by your own head."It seems kind of weird, right? What does that even mean?Well, it means this. "If I don't keep my word, let me be decapitated."A modern day equivalent of this would be, "Cross my heart and hope to die. Stick a needle in my..."These words mean nothing and they control nothing.Jesus says, "You cannot make one hair white or black."Back in those days, people could not control their hair color with hair dye like we can today.Once your hair started going gray, there was no going back.But even today in 2025, you can't speak a change of hair color into existence, right?You can't say, "Let my hair be black. Let my hair be blonde again."You cannot do that.So Jesus is saying, "If you cannot even control the color of your hair with your words,your words definitely cannot control if you're decapitated or not."God is saying, "My words certainly control that."Which means, "I own you. I own your head. I am the one who controls all things.So do not swear by heaven, by earth, by Jerusalem, or your own head."Jesus even exposes the other things the religious leaders swore by in Matthew chapter 23 verses 16 through 22.They would swear by the gold of the temple instead of the temple itself.They would swear by the gift on the altar instead of the altar itself.Jesus doesn't actually commend them for their shrewd thinking and their creative brainstorming.He calls them blind fools who cannot see the stupidity of their own actions.He labels them as blind guides who have fallen into a sinful pitand are calling the rest of Jerusalem to join them in the darkness.I know what you may be thinking at this point.Taylor, this is an interesting history lesson at all.I just don't see how this relates to me.I haven't sworn by anything or anyone for a long time.I haven't said, "I swear on my mother's life. I swear on my grandma's grave.I swear by my life that I'm not lying."So how does this relate to me? I haven't done that for many years.Well, here's how the text relates to you."Don't be a sneaky word ninja like the scribes and Pharisees.Do not be a sneaky person.Do not look for escape hatches and loopholes to get out of what you say,because that does not honor the Lord."Let me give you some examples that may hit close to home.Husbands, you're supposed to carry out a task for your wife, but then you forget.Yeah, stretch your imagination because that never happens, right?Then your wife calls you on it and to save face you say, "Oh, I was just about to do it.You didn't give me enough time. That's sneaky. So don't do it."You commit to a small group, but on one particular night, you don't really feel like going.So you call your small group leader, "Oh, man, I'm really under the weather.I don't want anybody else to get what I have. So I'm not going to make it tonight."That's sneaky. So don't do it.Someone texts or calls, someone texts or emails youand really annoying message that you do not want to respond to.So the next time you see that person, you pretend like you accidentally missed it.That's sneaky. So don't do it.You get invited to an event that you desperately do not want to go to.So what do you say? "Yeah, maybe that might work. Let me get back to my calendar and get back to you."You ain't getting back to them about nothing. You are going to ghost this person.That's sneaky. So don't do it.Unfortunately, you do get sucked into that event that you do not want to go to.Instead of biting the bullet and attending, you call that person the day of,"I really wanted to come, but something came up."But nothing came up.That's sneaky. So don't do it.And I know what some of you are saying to yourselves right now."Taylor, this seems like really small potatoes in the grand scheme of things."Shouldn't we move on to something a bit bigger?I mean, come on. These kinds of excuses are harmless and they hurt no one.Actually, these kinds of excuses are harmful and they hurt everyone, including you.You are numbing yourself to the deceitfulness of sin.And you are paving the way to lie in bigger and bolder ways moving forward.Listen, no one starts out as a pathological liar.It starts with one compromise that you get away with.And then it's way easier to make another compromise.You cross the line, you get away with it,and then you make a habit out of pushing boundaries and testing the limits.If you keep this up, you will end up saying and doing things that you never thought you were capable of.Sneakiness is a way of slipping into your heart and taking over if you're not on guard against it.But most importantly, these kind of devious excuses are sinful and sinning against the Lord.And that alone should give you pause and cause you to cut this behavior out of your life.It is not wise, it is not right to walk in the sneaky footsteps of the scribes and Phariseeswho rejected and murdered the Son of God.Instead, walk in the footsteps of the one who committed no sin.Neither was deceit found in his mouth.Jesus always told the truth even when it cost his own life.Jesus never made excuses to get out of his mission of dying on the cross.You must always tell the truth even when it gets you into trouble.Never make excuses even when it seems like everyone else around you is.The final question of the trustworthiness test.Do I always follow through on what I say?Do I always follow through on what I say?Jesus wraps up by showing the alternative to being an undependable and sneaky person in verse 37.Let what you say be simply yes or no.Anything more than this comes from evil.Well, according to our Lord, being an honest person is not a complex concept.Say yes if you'll do something. Say no if you will not do something.That's super easy, right?Not really.It is so simple, but it is also so hard to live out.It isn't convenient to be a yes or no person, but it is the freest way to live.It is so stressful to not keep your word.It is so stressful to have all those deceitful plates spinning in your mindbecause at some point one will come crashing down and you will have to deal with the consequences.It is exhausting to put on a mask and pretend to be someone who you are not.It is painful to not be the person who you project yourself to be.It is embarrassing to be unreliableand to have the reputation of being a constant flake and not an unshakable rock.When I am closing things down in my office for the day and packing things up,I often text my wife to let her know that I am on the way home.But sometimes I get distracted with other things after I send that text.Writing down a sermon thought that I don't want to lose,wrapping up a task that I forgot to complete, or talking to Pastor Jeff.That never happens, right Jeff?Several months ago I arrived home way later than I told Kate that I would.And I profusely apologized and I will never forget her blunt response with a loving smile on her face."Oh, that's okay. I always add an extra 15 minutes to your arrival time when you text me."Ouch!That loving burn really stung my conscience.My wife gave me some extra wiggle roombecause she was aware that I often missed the target of my stated arrival time.Do people need to give you wiggle room because they know that you often missed the target of keeping your word?They know you'll be somewhere off on the board but way off-center,or maybe you'll miss the board completely.You mean well, you have good intentions but your follow-through fall short.Maybe you feel very discouraged by your unreliable reputation.You're thinking to yourself, "I don't want to be this way. I want to help everyone.I want to be there for everyone but I can't seem to keep all of my commitments."Well, it sounds like you have a no problem.You say yes to everything because you don't want to let anyone down.But in the process, you let everyone down because you cannot equally serve everyone.If you say yes to everyone, your word will not carry weight with anyone.And to be clear, saying no can be wrong and sinful.Some of you in this room say no way more than you should at home, at work, and even in this church.God may be calling you to step up more, not step back less.But at the same time, saying no can also be right and productive.Because you have to recognize that you are not God.You cannot be everywhere all the time and you cannot do everything at the same exact time.You are a limited person.You need to count the cost of what you are committing yourself to before you say yes or no.It takes great wisdom and discernment to say no to good things.So that you can say yes to the best things.And Jesus is so direct at the end of verse 37 and says that anything beyond being a yes or no person is evil.It is wicked.And this is recapt in James 512.Some translations of Matthew 537 say that this kind of behavior beyond being a yes or no person is from the evil one.Meaning if you live this kind of deceitful lifestyle, you are way worse off than just being like the scribes and Pharisees.You are also like their spiritual father, Satan.Listen to what Jesus says to religious leaders in John 844.You are of your father the devil and your will is to do your father's desires.He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him.When he lies, he speaks out of his own character for he is a liar and the father of lies.My kids bear a family resemblance to Kate and me.They have my eye color and thankfully they have her good looks.After service, you see them running around.It shouldn't come as a surprise that they belong to Kate and me because they look just like us.There are two spiritual families and it's obvious which one you belong to based on which father you resemble the most.Do you resemble Satan who lies, cheats and steals or do you resemble God who tells the truth, does the right thing in the right way and selflessly serves?Which father do you resemble the most?We've reached the end of the trustworthiness test.How did you do?Did you pass or did you fail?Did you stick the landing or did you crash into the runway?Maybe the Lord has encouraged your heart and revealed to you that you have a strong and solid reputation that is well deserved.If that's you, keep up the good work, keep your foot on the gas pedal and keep moving forward by the grace of God.Maybe you're convicted that yes, you are in the family of God, but you sure aren't acting like it right now.Instead of hiding away and keeping your lies a secret, be honest about your dishonesty to God and to those you have betrayed.It is not enough to just stop lying from now on. You also have to uncover the lies that you've already told.I know that's hard. I know that feels shameful.But remember, if you are a true believer in Christ, there is no condemnation for you.You can be honest about your sin and ask for forgiveness from others because the penalty has already been paid by Jesus Christ.We can share openly about our failures because they're no longer held against us.Maybe you've come to the realization that you resemble the evil one and belong to the wrong family.For years, you've unapologetically told bold-faced lies. You've shared half truths.You've led people on. You've been underhanded and you've covered your tracks so you can avoid getting in trouble.You may feel crushed under the weight of your own dishonesty right now.If that's you, please do not try to do better or be better on your own.Do not try to clean up your act because that will not solve the problem.Self-improvement and self-help are fools errands that lead straight to hell.Those worldly methods will not solve the problem that is truly within you, which is the problem of your heart.Please come clean and confess your sins to the Lord.Turn from your deceptive ways and throw yourself at the mercy of Jesus Christ who died on the cross and rose again to save liars like you and me.If you do that, the Lord will give you a brand new heart that loves the truth, that desires the truth.A heart that is overflowing with a desire to share the truth with everyone.Only the most trustworthy one in all of existence can truly turn you into a trustworthy person.Let's pray.Father, I am a man of unclean lips who dwells among the people of unclean lips.Lord, we have sinned against you with our deception and our lies and our half truths.Lord, on our own, we are so helpless. We are so hopeless.But we thank you for your redeeming work.We thank you that you have cleansed us.You've cast our lies away from us as far as the east is from the west.Lord, help us not to be sneaky anymore.To not be deceptive anymore. To not make untrue excuses.Lord, help us to be people of our word who don't need to make promises.Help us to be people who have a solid reputation because our reputation impacts your reputation in this world.Lord, there's someone in this room who does not know and love you.May today be the day where they finally make the most important decision of their livesand are transformed and changed forever.We thank you for your goodness. We thank you that you are unchanging even though we're constantly changing.We ask all these things in Jesus' name. Amen.

Jesus Followers Should Fear, Respect, and Praise God's Power, Sovereignty, and Holiness; but in Life's Trials They Should “fear not for I {Jesus} am with you always”            MESSAGE SUMMARY: You should fear, respect, and praise God's power, Sovereignty, and Holiness; but, as a Jesus Follower, you should “fear not” in life's trials and tribulations or at your time of judgment. As David's praise tells us in Psalms 103:13: “As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him.”. David models again and again, in Psalms, how we should praise God. For example, in Psalms 146, David says: "Put not your trust in Princes; Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, Oh my soul!". When we are wondering how to praise the Lord, we can read one of David's Psalms to God like David's praises to the Lord in Psalms 112:1-2: “Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in his commandments! His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.". Also, we learn in Proverbs 1:7, the “fear of the Lord” and “wisdom” are closely linked: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.". These verses from the Old Testament point to the fear, respect, and praise that God warrants and demands from His power, sovereignty, and Holiness. On the other hand, as we see when the Apostle John quotes Jesus from Revelation 1:17-18, when Jesus, in all His power and Glory, reassures us of God's Grace and His plan for working out the Salvation and Eternal Life for all those that have accepted Jesus as their Savior: “When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, ‘Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.'”.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Revelation 1:17-18; Psalms 118:1-20; Proverbs 1:7; Psalms 73a:1-14. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Come Holy Spirit” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/    DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

In this very brief letter from the Apostle John, we discover the true nature of following Jesus and the characteristic of a godly friend and leader. The post That's what friends are for (3 John) appeared first on PLEASANT HILL COMMUNITY CHURCH.

When I was a student back in ‘Preacher School,” I was having a difficult time in one of my classes, which dealt with interpreting the Old Testament.  I didn't like what the teacher was teaching. I disagreed with his interpretation of a great story from the days of the Hebrew people before Jesus.  At one point in his lecture, the teacher stopped and asked for questions;  I immediately shot up my hand!  He called on me, and I said, a little too aggressively, that I disagreed with what he had said about the story.  This started a very difficult discussion in front of the class that taught me a lesson I have used almost weekly in my 45 years as a Pastor.             My professor was very kind and said, “Ok, Mr. Payne. Tell me your thoughts about our story and why you disagree with what I've said.  I did so as well as I could.  Even though I had held to my beliefs for some time, they had never been ‘tested.'  As the words came out of my mouth, I realized that my answer didn't seem to make as much sense as before my involvement in this class. (This upper-level class taught us to read and interpret the Old Testament in the original Hebrew language).  When I finished, the teacher, still kind and patient with me, began to ask me a series of questions.  For instance:  “What are the words in the Bible that have led you to reject my interpretation?” Following my answer, another question:   “Knowing what you know from our studies in Hebrew, is your interpretation supported by the text?”  We had quite a discussion, and he continued to lead me through a thought process that revealed that not only was I wrong in my interpretation, but what I held to be true was completely distorting the passage's meaning!              This experience changed my life!  The fact that I embarrassed myself in front of the class was bad enough, but that was an easy lesson. The greater lesson that affects me today is that if my beliefs and interpretations contradict the scriptures, I am wrong!  As my professor said, pay attention to what the Bible says and what the Bible does not say.'             Many of you who are reading this article may have had experiences in life with similar effects.  In the Bible, we can read that John the Apostle had many!  For instance, at one point in Mark 5, Jesus raised from the dead a young girl, the child of a Roman soldier. They had argued with Jesus over this because they thought it was too late; also, they were probably resistant to helping a Roman soldier whom they saw as their enemy.  Jesus' actions and kindness to the soldier and the raising of the girl from the dead challenged their understanding of life and death. They taught them that even a Roman soldier's family was worthy of God's love.  This was one of Jesus' methods by which he taught his disciples how to live and minister in his name.  The disciples who witnessed this miracle were forever changed – their beliefs and practices concerning ministering to people and offering God's love to them were forever altered!   The point of this whole message is that when we follow Jesus and cling to our faith in him, He will change our lives over time!  He will teach, correct, and mature us in the faith.  The goal is for us to live our lives so that He might use us in ministry to a world that desperately needs what only Jesus can give!             Here's a passage that can help us in our journey:  “If then you have been raised with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not the things on earth.  For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”                                                                                     Colossians 3:1-3   Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.   Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/   Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.   Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

Show Notes Late Night with Jerry Royce Live & Kelly HollandSpecial Guest: Apostle John E. RossEpisode Air Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025Hosts: Jerry Royce ("Batman") & Kelly HollandProduced by: Positive Power XXI MediaPlatform: Facebook Live, Spreaker, Roku TV, and all major podcast platformsEpisode Summary:In this heartfelt and humorous episode of Late Night with Jerry Royce Live & Kelly Holland, Apostle John E. Ross returns to the Positive Power platform to reflect on his journey in ministry, gospel music, and radio broadcasting. From humble beginnings in gospel music on cassette tapes to nearly 500 podcast episodes and multiple music releases, Apostle Ross shares powerful testimonies of faith, rebirth, and purpose.Apostle Ross gives listeners insight into his rebirth in 2012, his spiritual calling, and how obedience to God's instruction led to the birth of the "Let's Talk to the Lord" Gospel Radio Talk Show. He also shares the process of rerecording his early songs like "Remember Now Thy Creator" and how the choir version was released on March 31, 2025.He discusses:The importance of spiritual foundation and understanding the TorahLearning the fruits of the SpiritCreating media rooted in biblical truthHow trusting the process and God's timing opened new opportunitiesThe importance of supporting gospel media ministriesJerry and Kelly's signature blend of wit, warmth, and real talk makes this episode a must-have.Connect with Apostle John E. Ross:Website: Let's Talk to the Lord Radio InternationalMusic is available on all digital platforms (Amazon, Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora)Podcast: Available on iHeartRadio, TuneIn, Spreaker, Roku TV, Apple TVSheet Music: Available by request via the websiteCatch More of Late Night with Jerry Royce Live & Kelly Holland:Airs Thursdays at 10 PM ESTStreaming on Positive Power XXI, Facebook Live, and all podcast platforms

How You Respond to Jesus, In Your Earthly Life, Will Determine How You Are Judged By Jesus MESSAGE SUMMARY: Jesus claimed to be the unique, divine Son of God; therefore, Jesus is on an equal footing with God. Jesus said that He would one day judge the world. How you respond to Jesus, in your life, will determine how you are judged. The Apostle John summarizes, in John 20:27-29, the interchange between Jesus and the Apostle Thomas when Thomas realizes who Jesus, the man that he had been following for years, is: “Then he said to Thomas, 'Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe' Thomas answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!' Jesus said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.'”. You, as follower of Jesus, have not seen Jesus or His wounds. Therefore, do you believe through your faith; and are you able, by your faith, to say: “My Lord and my God!”? If not, why not?   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, you know how difficult it is for me to be in silence before you. At times it feels almost impossible, given the demands, distractions, and noise all around me. I invite you to lead me to a quiet, silent place before you — to a place where I can hear you as Elijah did. In Jesus' name, amen.     Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 123). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Inadequacy. Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Abundance. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 2 Timothy 4:1-8; Matthew 12:36-37; 2 Thessalonians 1:5; Psalms 70:1-5. WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Being in Christ, Part 4”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Dr. Don Trest continues teaching from the Apostle John. Today's passage begins in 1 John 3:7-8. Pastor Don starts to ask questions and build a framework from the scripture to teach on this vital subject.bfc4u.org, facebook.com/bfc4u

Revelation 04 - After These Things by Pastor John W. Brown | Revelation 04 https://s3.amazonaws.com/podcast.calvarycentral.org/rev-04-john2025.mp3 Description: Jesus told the Apostle John in Rev 1:19 NKJV Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this. …the things which you have seen… - of course would have encompassed John's lifetime and his life with Christ. And certainly this is why we have the book of Revelation! - (2) John was obedient – and he DID write down what he had seen. …the things which are… = this time period represents the Church Age. The time of the 7 churches which we just completed in Chapters 2 and 3. And finally the things which will take place after this. = That is, the things that will take place after the church age. = This is represented in Chapters 4 through 22.   Download Outline:

Back in the seventies, a man named John wanted us to imagine there was no heaven. Today, we'll see what a different John has to say. Well, contrary to the imagination of John Lennon, heaven is a real place. And according to the Apostle John, God will one day create a new heaven, along with a new Jerusalem. Ron gives us a glimpse, but only a glimpse, of this new heaven and new Jerusalem next. You'll have to leave the rest to your imagination. 

Toward the end of the introduction of the book of Revelation, the Apostle John has a vision of the Son of Man, Jesus Christ. Correctly understood, you and I can embrace John's vision and enter into a life of true worship leading to hope and joy. - Pastor Kevin

Do You Believe that “He {God} gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life”? MESSAGE SUMMARY:  You have got to believe; but until you get your thinking right, your life will not change – you have got to believe! It is hard for some people, today, to believe in the miraculous birth of Jesus celebrated on Christmas day. Ok, just start where you are in what you believe. Can you believe that you are a sinner? Can you believe that you are not perfect? Can you believe that you have violated God's laws? Despite this life background, can you believe that God loves you just as you now are? Can you believe that God sent His Only Son, Jesus, to save all that believe in Him so that you would not perish but have eternal life? Maybe this is where you start in believing in the miraculous birth of Jesus; you need to start where you are. Jesus' life was defined by His death on the cross and by His resurrection, thereby, living up to the translation of His name, Jesus – “Salvation”. The Apostle John succinctly summarized the purpose of Jesus birth in John3:16-17: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.".   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, fill me with the simple trust that even out of the most awful evil around me, you are able to bring great good — for me, for others, and for your great glory. In Jesus' name, amen.     Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 91). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because I am in Jesus Christ, I will seek God's perspective on my situation. For I know that in all things God works together for good to those of us who love Him and are called according to His purpose. From Romans 8:28 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 1:1-18; Luke 1:27-38; Luke 2:1-22; John 20:27-29; Psalms 69b:13-24. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Being in Christ, Part 3” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Have you ever wondered what heaven will be like? What it will look like, where it will be located? Today, Ron takes you to the largest description of heaven found anywhere in your Bible. It came to the Apostle John in a vision from Jesus Himself, and he wrote down what he saw in Revelation chapter twenty-one, verses one through five. Prepare yourself to get homesick for heaven, as Ron continues his teaching series, “Heaven: The Father's House and My Eternal Home.”  

Deuteronomy 33 records Moses' message and blessings for each of the 12 tribes and contains wise words of instruction and warning. These words speaks of events to be seen in the latter days that are specific for each tribe. Verses 2-5 are prophetic and is in the Hebrew text in the future tense. Compare Habakuk chapter 3. Seir is the territory of Edom and relates to the time described in Isaiah 63:1-6. Mount Paran is in the south, in the Negev, and we are being presented with the March of the rainbowed angel of Revelation 10. Verse 3 prophetically relates to the same events described in Psalm 68. Of Reuben Moses tells of an increasing in numbers for that tribe. Verse 7 speaks of Judah. We know that this tribe was to be the progenitor of our Lord Jesus Christ – as Micah 5:2 declares. An interesting exercise is to compare Jacob's last day prophecies in Genesis 49 with those of Moses in this chapter. Contemplate the description of Judah's king in verses 8-12 of Genesis 49. Verses 8-11 of Deuteronomy 33:8-11 tell of blessings upon Levi for that tribe's faithfulness to their God at the time of the incident of the golden calf. This, too, was a mirror of their zeal for the LORD at the time of Israel's corrupting of themselves at Baal Peor – Phinehas led the tribe by his example then. The Urim and Thummim relate to the righteous divine judgments in which Yahweh aided and directed the outcome. Phinehas put his love of the LORD above natural family ties and as a result he was promised a priesthood in the kingdom age – Malachi 2 verses 4-7. For his and his tribe's faithfulness the Levites were entrusted with the responsibility to teach Israel the testimonies of their Sovereign. Benjamin's blessing relates to the proximity of his tribe's habitat being on the border of Judah and sharing of the metropolis of the kingdom age – Jerusalem. Verses 14-18 contain the longest of the blessings, which were upon Joseph, the head of the one whose life marked him as separate from his brothers. Joseph may well be the greatest type of Lord Jesus Christ in the Old Testament. Joseph is blessed with the double inheritance as his father elevated him to the position of the firstborn son. Likewise though Adam was the firstborn son of God, Luke 3:38, our Lord was given the place of the firstborn as Is prophesied in Psalm 89 verses 26-29. Verse 16 describes the blessing of knowing Yahweh our God in the revelation that was made to Moses by the angel who abode in the bush – Exodus 3:13-18 compare with Acts 7:30-34. The reference to the ten thousands from this tribe is an allusion to Psalm 68:13-21. Verses 18-21 speak of Zebulon, meaning dwelling, being blessed with an inheritance by the Mediterranean Sea and the treasures of the sand may relate to the extensive gas fields found adjacent to this region. The worshippers arriving at this haven by ship will come from there to worship the King in Jerusalem – the mountain of the LORD as Psalm 48 reveals. Verses 20-21 tell of Gad's troop being the protectors of the Promised Land. Verse 22 shows Dan to be the vindicator – the exactor of vengeance upon Yahweh's foes. Verse 23 outlines how Naphtali will carry the burdens of the blessings that will be brought to the nation from the abundance of the Gentiles – Isaiah 60 verses 9-11 reveals this. The lake mentioned is the Dead Sea in southern Israel. and this tribe may accompany the worshippers on their way to the house of prayer for all nations. Verses 24-25 speak of Asher, whose name means “blessed”, or “happy” being blessed with abundance. The mineral wealth in this tribal allotment is enormous. The mineral deposits in the Dead Sea region are among the largest know deposits on earth. Verses 26-29 enumerate the boundless blessings to the nation. The greatest of these blessings is to have the the Eternal God as our Father and be supported day by day in His caring, but mighty, arms. With Him we experience incomparable blessings throughout our live. And we live in this blessed assurance. Chapter 34 of Deuteronomy is not written by Moses as it speaks of his death and the physical condition of his body at the time he is laid to sleep. From the top of Mount Pisgah Moses views the Promised Land. He saw it through eyes that were enhanced and allowing him to see the entire land – this was not physically possible from that location. He rests awaiting the time that the angel will raise him from his sleep so that he also inherit the home of his constant yearnings. He dies as a vigorous man of 120 years in age. His natural vitality was strong and his eyesight undimmed. Israel mourned his decease for a month. And Joshua succeeded Moses as leader of the LORD's people – by the Almighty's divine appointment and with the blessing of Moses. No like prophet ever arose Isaiah 6 tells of Isaiah's calling to be a prophet of Yahweh and his being appointed to that role. He is called as a youth and he protests his unsuitability of carrying out a challenging mission to a rebellious and unheeding nation. In fact the message that he is taking to the nation of Judah would produce an increase in their hostility. As well as his claim to be but a youth we have evidences of that work lasting for 89 years. The prophet begins his service in the year of the great earthquake when king Uzziah died – BC 796. That king had usurped the office of the High Priest and the LORD struck him with leprosy as he was attempting to offer the incense. Uzziah is driven from the Temple as one of the region's greatest earthquakes of all time is unleashed. In contrast with that event the prophet beholds Yahweh of armies enthroned in His Temple. This glorious vision of the king-priest Messiah is symbolic of our Lord Jesus Christ's kingdom reign at his second advent. Matthew tells us this in chapter 13 verses 10-17. The purpose of parables, we are told, was to bewilder the shallow and the sceptical; but to enlighten the hearers who are seeking enlightenment. Verses 9-10 of Isaiah's sixth chapter are cited. At the shaking of the Temple from the great earthquake Isaiah himself physically trembled at this display of raw power from the Almighty. The prophet declares his own unworthiness to even behold this vision, let alone be asked to be his representative. The seraphim appear to be a combination of the cherubic figures of Ezekiel and the flashing of burning fire from the symbolic creatures which Isaiah saw. The Hebrew word derives from a word meaning burning ones. A coal of fire from the smoking incense altar is placed on the prophet's tongue and he is told that there is no need for fears as his iniquity is taken away by God whose Word has purged his sins. The necessary preparation for Isaiah to proclaim the LORD's message. Isaiah is thus commissioned as a prophet of Yahweh and on behalf of his Sovereign he would take the message placed into his mouth by divine inspiration to the nation of Israel. Sadly that generation of Israelites was largely uneffected. Likewise Messiah's message failed to effect the majority of people in his age. So our Lord Jesus spoke in parables. The Apostle John speaks of this in John 12verses 32-33 when our Lord Jesus prophesied his own lifting up in crucifixion. Paul tells us that this was a great stumbling stone for the Jews as we read in  1 Corinthians 1:23. In Colossians 3 verses 1-4 tells us that since we have through the act of baptism been raised in him to a new life our thoughts and actions should be in harmony with this. And so from verses 5-9 all those past behaviours are to find no place among believers. Our new self is being renewed every day through our growth in understanding what it means to be “in Christ”. From verses 12-17 the focus of the believer's mind and actions is to centre on living with (and as) Christ. From verses 18 to the chapter's end he addresses the different groups within Christian households and advises on proper behaviour. Chapter 4 continues with instructions for masters and servants – such an important topic as five sixths of the Roman world were slaves. Verses 2-4 is a request to those at Colossae to pray for Paul's preaching. Verse 5 tells that their speech and behaviour must be sincere at all times – “seasoned with salt”. Verses 7-17 conclude with final greetings. Verse 18 tells us that the letter was written by Paul in his own handwriting.

Dr. Don Trest continues teaching from the Apostle John. Our lives are in Christ, and a child of God will not continue in a lifestyle of sin. God chastens those who are His.bfc4u.org, facebook.com/bfc4u

It's been said that First John "is a masterpiece in the art of edification" (George Findley, 1909).In this series, we will see how the Apostle John exhibits tender, pastoral care as he calls the church back to the three basics of Christian life: true doctrine, obedient living, and fervent devotion.This week's message, COMMANDED TO LOVE, comes out of 1 JOHN 2:7-17.Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.rittmangrace.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Rittman Grace Brethren Church⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rittmangrace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RittmanGrace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaXPiaa4z3iZMA4DkCihtHg⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rittmangbc⁠

Do You Believe that “He {God} gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life”? MESSAGE SUMMARY:  You have got to believe; but until you get your thinking right, your life will not change – you have got to believe! It is hard for some people, today, to believe in the miraculous birth of Jesus celebrated on Christmas day. Ok, just start where you are in what you believe. Can you believe that you are a sinner? Can you believe that you are not perfect? Can you believe that you have violated God's laws? Despite this life background, can you believe that God loves you just as you now are? Can you believe that God sent His Only Son, Jesus, to save all that believe in Him so that you would not perish but have eternal life? Maybe this is where you start in believing in the miraculous birth of Jesus; you need to start where you are. Jesus' life was defined by His death on the cross and by His resurrection, thereby, living up to the translation of His name, Jesus – “Salvation”. The Apostle John succinctly summarized the purpose of Jesus birth in John3:16-17: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.".   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, fill me with the simple trust that even out of the most awful evil around me, you are able to bring great good — for me, for others, and for your great glory. In Jesus' name, amen.     Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 91). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be ashamed of the Gospel. I will not be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ for it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes (including me). From Romans 1:16 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 1:1-18; Luke 1:27-38; Luke 2:1-22; John 20:27-29; Psalms 69b:13-24. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Being in Christ, Part 2” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

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.comJohn 21 Jesus appears a third time to His disciples, this time at the Sea of Tiberias. Peter, and several others, fish throughout the night and catch nothing. From the beach, Jesus tells them to lower their nets once again, and they come up with 153 fish. Peter jumps in and swims to see Jesus. The rest of the men also hurry back to the shore, and they all enjoy breakfast with Him. Jesus emphatically instructs Peter to show love for Him by tending His sheep, which is a reference to Christ's followers. Peter, along with all the Apostles, would suffer, even to death, as they devote the rest of their lives to following Jesus. The author of this letter is John, who is one of the Apostles with Jesus on that beach.  Jesus is the Son of God. He had just risen from the dead, and He was about to ascend into heaven. And yet, he took the time to visit disciples on the beach and have breakfast with them. He shared with them what He expected of them and what troubles would soon come. Our Savior is infinitely greater and more important than His followers, and yet He devotes time to them. He sits and eats with them. He shows great patience with them. This is our Lord, and this is how much He loves each one of us. What He asks in return is simple: love Him, help His people, and follow Him in whatever direction He leads us.  Great God of heaven, we have read the words of the Apostle John, an eyewitness to the life of Jesus, and we believe His testimony. From this letter, You have shown us that Jesus is Your Son, that He is both powerful and kind, and that He is worthy to be followed. He cares for us, and He has an important mission for our lives. Help us to know our mission, and to engage in it with the people You put in our path. Make us fishers of men and teach us how to help tend Your Son's sheep.   Thought Questions: -       Jesus told Peter three times to “tend My sheep.” How has the good Shepherd challenged us to take care of His sheep until He returns? -       How should your relationship with Jesus resemble sitting with Him at breakfast and being told by Him how to love and serve Him today? -       John could have written many more things about Jesus. But why did He write this gospel, and what does it teach you about Christ?

Dr. Don Trest begins a new series from the writings of the Apostle John. Salvation is by grace, though we are purchased with a price and belong to God. Therefore, we should represent God in a way that glorifies Him.bfc4u.org, facebook.com/bfc4u

In 1 John 4:4, the Apostle John reassures early Christians of their strength against false teachings and challenges, emphasizing God's Spirit within them. This indwelling presence empowers believers to overcome worldly pressures and struggles. The reminder of their identity as God's children equips them to face life's battles confidently and victoriously.

The Apostle John discovered that even though he could not be in worship in his familiar home setting, God came to him and showed him the what's to be in Heaven. Listen and learn and be blessed.

We track the life of the Apostle John and his transformation from firebrand to the apostle of love.Support the show

May 4, 2025Since His first coming, every generation of artists of every medium have produced their “visions” of Christ. Paintings, sculptures, and representations in film/TV all seek to capture qualities associated with Him. In Rev 1:9-20, the Apostle John was given a vision of Jesus in all of His unveiled glory which left the elderly apostle on his face. What do our lives reveal about our vision of Christ? Do we see Him with the clarity that has now been revealed? Revelation 1:9-20

When Jesus Asked You: “Whom do you say that I am?”, Did You Answer Jesus: “You are my God and the Lord of my Life!”?  MESSAGE SUMMARY: The stories of the New Testament tell us that Jesus was no ordinary man. The Apostle John, in John 1:1-5, points out that Jesus, the Word, was the Creator of the Universe: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.". John tells us that Jesus had authority over nature, over creation, and over life itself, and he tells us that Jesus was the life-giver that came to earth for us. In John 20:26-29, Jesus asked the Apostle Thomas a fundamental question that Jesus asks you today– “Jesus said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me?'”: “Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.' Thomas answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!' Jesus said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.'”. When Jesus has asked you: “Whom do you say that I am?”, and how did you answer? Did you tell Jesus: “You are my God and the Lord of my Life!”? Have you, in your life, become a Jesus Follower? If not, why not   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 1:1-18; Isaiah 7:2-14; Matthew 1:21-24; Psalms 67:1-7. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Being in Christ, Part 2” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/    DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

It's been said that First John "is a masterpiece in the art of edification" (George Findley, 1909).In this series, we will see how the Apostle John exhibits tender, pastoral care as he calls the church back to the three basics of Christian life: true doctrine, obedient living, and fervent devotion.This week's message, WALKING IN THE LIGHT, comes out of 1 JOHN 1:5-2:6.Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.rittmangrace.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Rittman Grace Brethren Church⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rittmangrace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RittmanGrace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaXPiaa4z3iZMA4DkCihtHg⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rittmangbc⁠

In this conversation, the hosts explore various theological concepts, including the theory that Apostle John never died, the interpretation of the rapture, and the implications of AI in relation to biblical prophecies. They discuss the significance of the 144,000 believers mentioned in Revelation and how modern technology, particularly AI, could play a role in future religious events. The conversation delves into the intersection of faith, belief, and technology, raising questions about the future of religion in a rapidly changing world. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the themes of the Antichrist, the role of religion in the end times, and the implications of biblical prophecy on modern society, particularly focusing on the United States. They discuss the nature of judgment, the afterlife, and the cyclical nature of history as it relates to biblical narratives. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal belief and understanding in the face of impending events.Drink Beer N Bulls#!t Podcast consists of 5 individuals. Swih-Medie-Rigo-Art-Johnny. The show will center around the discussion of various topics from the super natural like ghosts and hauntings to elusive mythical creatures including the likes of Bigfoot, Nessy, Champ, & The Jersey Devil ect. The show will cover anything and everything in-between as well, like Sports, Movies, Music & current events. All this while having some drinks to lighten the mood. We hope to bring an entertaining show to listeners and share some of our own personal stories and perspective for all to hear. We are not experts or professionals, we just want to Drink Beer N Bulls#!t. Click the link for all our social media pages and streaming platforms for our Drink Beer N Bulls#!t Podcast.Get your Magic Mind with a 20% discount with our link!www.magicmind.com/dbbs20https://linktr.ee/drinkbeernbspodcastwww.drinkbeernbullshitpodcast.com

In Revelation fifteen, the Apostle John makes some incredible connections between the Exodus and the last days. Both tell the story of God's deliverance of his people and his wrath against his enemies. The difference, however, is that Revelation paints the picture of God's wrath poured out once and for all.Now, let's turn our attention to Pastor Brian for this week's message, entitled "The Exodus."

It's been said that First John "is a masterpiece in the art of edification" (George Findley, 1909).In this series, we will see how the Apostle John exhibits tender, pastoral care as he calls the church back to the three basics of Christian life: true doctrine, obedient living, and fervent devotion.This week's message, FOR OUR JOY, comes out of 1 JOHN 1:1-4.Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.rittmangrace.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Rittman Grace Brethren Church⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rittmangrace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RittmanGrace⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaXPiaa4z3iZMA4DkCihtHg⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠rittmangbc⁠

1 John 5:14 reassures believers that God hears their prayers when aligned with His will, fostering confidence in their relationship with Him. Written by the Apostle John, this scripture emphasizes the importance of seeking God's heart rather than personal desires, deepening trust in His goodness through prayer and Scripture.

Here on the Unchanging Word Bible Broadcast we are in the book of the Revelation of Jesus Christ which He gave to His angel to show to His bond servants the the things which must quickly come to pass.Welcome to this study in the last book of the Bible, the book of Revelation as written by the beloved Apostle John.In this lesson our teacher, Dr. Mitchell, is in Revelation 1. He is expounding verses 5 and 6. He will speak of this Jesus as the one who is even now today loving us. This same Jesus is the one who freed us from our sins in His own blood.Dr. Mitchell will look in depth at the 3rd thing our Savior has done for us. He has made us a kingdom, priests to His God and Father.Here is Dr. Mitchell with our study, Revelation 1:5-7.

Has God taken you out of the game? The Apostle John had been discarded on the "Alcatraz" of his day, cut off from his spiritual community in Ephesus, all his closest friends martyred. It would have been easy for John to imagine that he'd been sidelined from his apostolic mission. But we know something he didn't: God had chosen him to see - and record - a special vision. We call it the book of Revelation. Here's Pastor Jim with Part 2 of his sermon, An Amazing Secret. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS04222025_0.mp3Scripture References: Revelation 1:9-20

John 19 told of Jesus' crucifixion. It followed brutal treatment at the hands of Pilate's soldiers including thrusting a crown of thorns upon his head and putting a purple robe on him in mockery. How apt that in his dying he would remove the curse brought by Adam upon the earth; and would be like the ram caught by his horns in Genesis 22. When Pilate heard their claim that Jesus was the Son of God his fear intensified and he sought the Lord's release. Jesus made it crystal clear to Pilate that Pilate was without power against Jesus and the great sin lay with the Jewish rulers. They clamoured even more that Pilate should cooperate with their designs. If not Caesar would hear of it. Pilate caved in under pressure and allowed Jesus to be led away to be crucified. “We have no king but Caesar”, they cried; and forty years later their king came and destroyed Jerusalem because of their blood guiltiness. The crucifixion occurred in the place of the skull – Golgotha (the location where David buried Goliath's skull, as told in 1 Samuel 17). He was crucified between two thieves- no doubt these were Barabbas' men. In the three languages operating in Judea at the Aramaic, Greek and Latin was inscribed on his cross, “Jesus of Nazareth, king of the Jews”. The Jews protested Pilate's writing; but he, no doubt, gloried in this small victory over them. The soldiers divided his clothes between them and they cast lots for his vesture in fulfilment of Psalm 22:18. The beloved women in his life eventually came near to see his death; and at this time he committed his mother into the care of his beloved Apostle John. He died with his final words being a citation of Psalm 31:5 the quotation being completed when he emerged from the tomb after three days. His side was pierced by a Roman spear and out came blood and water indicating he had died of a broken heart. Unlike the thieves not a bone of him was broken – he was the Passover Lamb of Exodus 12 and the subject of the prophecy in Psalm 34:20-22. And the Scripture in Revelation 1:7 will be true at his coming kingdom. Jesus' body was secured from Pilate by Joseph of Arimathea. Jesus' body was placed by Joseph and Nicodemas in a new and unused garden tomb owned by the rich man Joseph.

Pastor Dan preached that Jesus gave undeniable physical proof of His resurrection to His followers—not just to validate His victory over death, but so that we might believe and be saved. From Mary Magdalene to Thomas, each witness had their doubts erased by encountering the risen Christ. The Apostle John recorded these events with one purpose: so that we, even today, might believe that Jesus is the Son of God and have eternal life in His name.#RisenSavior #HeIsAlive #FaithInChrist #ResurrectionProof #BelieveAndBeSaved

The story of the Gospel is as real as you and me. Jesus really died on the cross and really rose from the dead. Inasmuch as those are real events, the promises made about Jesus' return are guaranteed too.In Revelation fourteen, the Apostle John is given a glimpse of the great reaping that will take place at the end of the age. As has been the case through most of our journey through Revelation, there are really only two options.Let's turn our attention to Pastor Brian for this week's message, entitled, "The Harvest."

Sermon Text: 1 John 3:1-3 Sermon Title: “Our Hope for Home” Sermon Slides: SLIDE 1 – Sermon Title Slide SLIDE 2 – Today's Big Idea: Our Hope for Home … Comes to Us from the Love of God. This Hope … Will Purify Our Life Now and Glorify Our Body Soon. SLIDE 3 – Point 1: Our Hope for Home … Comes to Us from the Love of God. (v. 1) SLIDE 4 – John Stott (1921-2011): “The Father's love is so unearthly, so foreign to this world, that Apostle John wonders from what country it may come.” SLIDE 5 – Insert a Copy of Point #1 of Sermon SLIDE 6 – John 10:17-18 – “For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.” SLIDE 7 – 1st Principle (from v. 1): “This love produces real hope in us, because if God loved us that much then, He'll love us all the way home.” SLIDE 8 – Insert a Copy of Point #1 of Sermon SLIDE 9 – John 14:1, 16-18 – “In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you … And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper … I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” SLIDE 10 – 2nd Principle (from v. 1): “The Hope our Father foretold eternally, the Son revealed publicly, and now the Spirit implants intimately into us.” SLIDE 11 – Conclusion: “Resurrected children long to be with their Resurrected God in their Resurrected home. This resurrection hope in us springs forth from God's redeeming love to us.” SLIDE 12 – Point 2: This Hope in Us … Will Purify Our Life Now and Glorify Our Body Soon. (vv. 2-3) SLIDE 13 – Principle (from v. 3): “Hope promotes purity of life, not laxity or license to sin. Hope always produces holiness.” SLIDE 14 – Insert a Copy of Point #2 of Sermon SLIDE 15 – Conclusion: “When we finally see Christ, who is our Hope, we will no longer image Christ partially … but image Christ exactly. And our Hope in Christ will have finally led us Home to God.” SLIDE 16 – Sermon Uses for Life: Two this Morning. SLIDE 17 – If You're an Unbeliever: Without Christ … There is No Hope. SLIDE 18 – If You're a Believer: Your Hope in Christ … Won't Disappoint!

What does the Apostle John have to show us about the unique exclusivity of the work of the Son of God on the cross? Why does this matter for us? Why should we be found sitting at the foot of the cross?

Read OnlineStanding by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home. John 19:25–27If you spent time this Lent pondering the beautiful image of Jesus' mother standing by the foot of the Cross, then you have some insight into her motherly love and experience on Good Friday. She was faithful to the end. She would have been no other place than at the foot of the Cross, gazing upon the sacrificial death of her own divine Son for the salvation of the world.From all the perspectives that we can use to gaze upon the Cross, the perspective of Jesus' own mother is the best. The soldiers stood there mocking our Lord, perhaps some confused and perhaps some even feeling pity for Jesus. The scribes and Pharisees looked on with contempt and self righteousness, doubling down on their hatred and jealousy. Most of the Apostles had fled, one of them betraying Jesus and another denying that he even knew our Lord. But Jesus' own mother, accompanied by some other holy women and the beloved disciple, John, stood there with love, offering consolation to the Heart of Jesus.The love shared between mother and Son at the foot of the Cross was twofold in the heart of Mary. Her love for her Son expressed her unwavering fidelity to Him. It dispelled all fear. It was singularly focused. It was all-consuming. As she shared this love for her Son, she truly consoled Him. This is a significant fact to ponder. Since Jesus was the Son of God, He didn't need the human consolation of His mother's love at that moment. But by becoming human, Jesus chose to accept her love. In that act of acceptance, He allowed her human love to console His human heart. This consoling and steadfast love expressed the perfection of human love.The second form of love shared between mother and Son at the foot of the Cross was the love given by Jesus to His mother. At its core, this love was the gift of salvation. For her, the grace of His Cross transcended time to the moment of her conception, freeing her from Original Sin. Jesus' love on the Cross transformed her, retroactively, into the Immaculate Conception and enabled her to know Jesus not only as her Son but also as her Savior. Jesus' love in that moment on the Cross is also expressed in His unwavering commitment to care for her in her human state. He gave her to John to care for her as his own mother and, in so doing, He gave her to all of us who stand at the foot of the Cross with her as our own spiritual mother.If you want to understand the love of God, look no further than this immaculate and perfect love shared between mother and Son at the foot of the Cross. Today, especially, you are invited to stand with the Apostle John and gaze upon this shared love of mother and Son. John is there as an invitation to you to stand with them and to share in this holy exchange of love.As you witness this love, think about your own life and what it would take for you to participate in such love. Consider the courage and strength you need. The ability to forgive all who harmed you. Freedom from all bitterness. Unwavering commitment. Perfect affection. These, and many other qualities that were present in the hearts of mother and Son at the Cross are all qualities that God wants to bestow upon you. He wants you to bring them into every relationship in your life. He wants the perfection of this love to come upon you and for you to  express this love always.Reflect, today, on this Good Friday, upon this most holy scene of the love of this mother and this Son. As you do, try to examine your own life. As you look at this mother and Son's many virtues, allow that gaze to reveal to you the ways you need to grow in virtue. The Mother of God is now your mother, and the Son of God is now your Savior. Speak to them, listen to them, love them and allow the love that flows from their hearts to penetrate your own so that you can receive their love and share it with others. My dying Lord, You freely embraced human death for the salvation of the World. It was the greatest act of love ever known. As You hung upon the Cross in agony, Your own dear mother, the Immaculate Conception, stood by You, receiving Your love in its fullness and offering her love to console Your suffering soul. Please draw me into that love and help me to not only receive it but also to offer it to all in need. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image via Adobe StockSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

No one knows the day or the hour in which Jesus Christ will return. But we're closer to it now than we were yesterday! You know, the Bible tells us that Christ will return soon. Even two thousand years ago, in the book of Revelation, the Apostle John says the Lord's Second Coming is near. Ron sheds some light on this seeming contradiction next, as he moves ahead in his teaching series, “Ready for His Return.”  

Ever wondered what Heaven is really like? In Revelation 4, the Apostle John is invited to step through the door of Heaven and catch a jaw-dropping glimpse of God's Throne Room. Get ready for sensory overload as John describes the sights, sounds, and glory of God's presence!First, did you know there are THREE Heavens described in Scripture? 1️⃣ The First Heaven – is Earth's sky and atmosphere. 2️⃣ The Second Heaven – is outer space. The sun, moon, and stars. 3️⃣ The Third Heaven – is God's home. This is the dwelling place of the Almighty, where John is taken in Revelation 4!So, what is the Glory of Heaven like? John's description is other-wordly! Heaven is dazzling beyond description. Here's an overview of all John sees and hears:

In this powerful Palm Sunday message titled "I Fell at His Feet," Pastor Derrill Corbin leads us through Revelation 1:17–18 and John Mark 11:1–11, inviting us to see Jesus not just as Savior, but as King. As part of our Easter series at Mannahouse Mill Plain, we follow the journey of the Apostle John—from knowing about Jesus, to following Him, to deep intimacy, and ultimately to full surrender. John's encounter with the risen Christ reveals the awe and reverence due to the Living One—Jesus who triumphed over death and holds the keys of eternity. Through Scripture, reflection, and worship, we're called to take our next step—whatever that may be—toward deeper discipleship and wholehearted devotion. Join us as we respond to Jesus with the same posture as John: falling at His feet.

In the book of Revelation, the Apostle John describes 7 spirits that surround the throne of God in heaven; even closer to him than the 4 beasts or 24 elders. What does the book of Revelation reveal about the identities of these spirits?Michael Pearl continues teaching verse by verse through the book of Revelation in front of a live audience at the Door Studios. Listen on Podcast: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/thedoor⁠ Stream Videos: ⁠https://nogreaterjoy.tv⁠

Presented by Julie Busteed How do you introduce yourself? What's the first thing you tell others about yourself when meeting someone new? The Apostle John writes: See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him (1 John 3:1). I'm in awe that the Father has lavished his great love on me. God almighty is extravagantly generous with his great love toward his children. It is his heart. To know your identity is a child of God and that he loves you, should give you such peace and rest and confidence and security. But, what if you're not “feeling” loved right now. How do you continue to rest and walk in God's love? Let's look at how the Bible defines love. The Apostle John continues: This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us (1 John 3:16). And Paul in Romans tells us: But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). Not only does God lavish his love on us, but he's the one who sent his son to die for us to save us and to reconcile us to himself. We don't have to earn his love. It is a free gift. If you're in a hard place right now—uncertain about the future of your job, in a difficult season in a relationship, or struggling with your health—it can be difficult to feel like God is with you and loves you. But you especially need to preach this truth to yourself during these times. Keep reminding yourself he does love you. Your feelings are not always to be relied on! When you consistently read God's word, meditate on it in your heart and mind, study, and even memorize it, you will be able to recall his truth when you are in a difficult place. My prayer for us echoes Paul's prayer for the Ephesians: I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:17-19).

In Revelation Chapter 4, everything shifts. After addressing the churches on Earth, Jesus invites the Apostle John to "Come up here!"—giving him (and us) a glimpse into Heaven's throne room and a preview of future events. This moment marks a pivotal point in Bible prophecy, and many believe it represents the Rapture, which is the moment Jesus returns to rescue His followers and take them to Heaven.But when will the Rapture happen? And where will Christians be during the seven years of intense suffering known as the Tribulation? Well, there are three major views of the Rapture's timing:

What happens when a church starts strong but loses sight of what truly matters? The early church in Ephesus had an incredible legacy—planted by the Apostle Paul, led by Timothy, and even home to the Apostle John and Mary. But despite their theological strength, Jesus had a serious warning for them: they had lost their first love.    In this conversation, Pastor Josh and Jana Howerton, along with Pastor Carlos Erazo, dive into the powerful message behind the letter to the Ephesians in Revelation 2. They explore how distraction, culture, and even good theology can become barriers to genuine love for Christ. Plus, hear about Pastor Josh's eye-opening journey through the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the surprising history behind the Jesus fish symbol, and what it all means for believers today. If you've ever felt like your faith has lost its fire, this conversation is for you!