Podcasts about apostle john

The Apostle John is elderly and living in Ephesus. A new wave of false doctrine is slamming into the church. He writes this letter as eyewitness testimony, calling believers to walk in the light, and reminding them of the certainty of Christ.

Jesus Christ was God in human flesh- the physical manifestation of God's perfect character and righteousness. The Old Testament told all about him and pointed to him as Israel's Messiah. Yet the Apostle John wrote, "He came unto his own and his own received him not." Why did the religious leaders and people of Israel reject Jesus and the righteousness of God that comes through faith? Find out on Dr. Barnhouse and the Bible. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/791/29?v=20251111

For Jesus Followers, Jesus Presence Provides Confidence and Light in Times Which Could Bring Fear and Uncertainty into Your Life MESSAGE SUMMARY:  If You are a Jesus Follower, you can live in the presence of Jesus for your life. Living in the presence of Jesus means that you live in personal holiness; therefore, you are living in the light of Jesus. Many times, you are so tempted to walk in the darkness of doom and gloom; and when you go through something difficult in your life, you walk in darkness without the presence of Jesus and His light for your life. The Apostle John, in 1 John 1:5-7, so clearly presents what it means to “walk in the presence and light of Jesus” for those times that bring fear and uncertainty into your life: “This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.". One day, the Lord will come in judgment; but for now, you can walk in the light and presence of Jesus through your prayerful personal relationship with Him.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I have spent much of my life running from pain and loss, medicating my pain, and quickly moving on to the next project — the new urgent demand. I ask for the grace to embrace all of life — the joys and the sorrows, the deaths, and the births, the old and the new. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 110). 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 7:12-16; 1 John 1:5-10; 2 Corinthians 3:12-18; Psalms 38b:12-22. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “It's About Time: Part 2 – Overstressed, Overloaded, and Maxed Out Lives” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

As children of God, made in the image of God and filled with His Spirit, we have love to give. Today, Matt highlights the Apostle John's instruction to not direct our love toward things in the world, but rather toward one another. This is the "new" commandment that Jesus established, to find ways to love one another, fulfilling all of the law. GIVE HERE - https://awake.church/give

The Apostle Paul speaks very plainly to the church atEphesus reminding them of something that they should know. This is somethingthat as believers and followers of Jesus Christ that should be obvious to us.What should we know? “That no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man,who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.  Now,it's interesting that when you read Paul's letters to the churches in Galatiaand Colossae, you find that he says very similar things on this subject. Infact, here in Ephesians 5, we've already seen that we are called to walk inlove (v. 2). In verse 8, we are told to walk as children of light. Then inverse 15, Paul says we are to walk circumspectly—not as fools, but as wise. Inother words, the believer walks a different walk. He walks a different path. Thepath that we are walking is a narrow path that leads to life, not the broadpath that leads to destruction.  Theworld around us is filled with envy, murder, wickedness, lewdness, idolatry,fornication—sins of the flesh, sins of immorality, and sins of the tongue, “filthiness,nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting”. Paul has already told us in theearlier verses that as believers we are saints, and it is not fitting forsaints to live this way (v. 3-4). These sins are to be put off. We are not tocommit them, or for that matter, have anything to do with them. Nowin verses 5 and 6, Paul repeats some of the same sins and makes this truth veryclear, which indicates that this is extremely important. We find the samewarning in Galatians 5:19-21.Myfriend, when we become born-again followers of Jesus Christ, we aretransformed. We are transferred out of the kingdom of darkness, the kingdom ofSatan and evil, and into the kingdom of light, the kingdom of God. Paul wrotein Colossians 1:13, “He has delivered us from the power of darkness andconveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love”.  Jesus Himself said in John chapter 3, “Excepta man be born again, he cannot see or enter the kingdom of God.” When weare born again, we receive a new life, and we now belong to a new kingdom. Inthis kingdom, we should now live to please the King. We honor the King. Wehallow the name of Jesus Christ. We pray, “Thy kingdom come, Thy will bedone on earth as it is in heaven.” And because of that, we do notparticipate in the deeds that belong to the kingdom of darkness. Now, Paul isnot saying that if a believer commits a sin—such as adultery, fornication, orsome form of sexual immorality—that they automatically lose their salvation.That is not what he is teaching. What he is saying is that if a personpractices these sins—if they continually walk in them and live in them—itproves that they have never truly been brought into the kingdom of light. Jesusspoke of this in Matthew 7:21-23, when He said, “Many will say to Me in thatday, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not done many wonderful works in Your name?' And thenI will declare to them, ‘Depart from Me, you workers of iniquity; I never knewyou.'” My friend, not everyone who claims to be a Christian truly is one.Some may talk like Christians at times, but their deeds and their works revealthat they do not belong to Christ. The Apostle John addresses this clearly in 1John, when he says, “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for ifthey had been of us, they would have continued with us.” We who are truly bornagain have been transferred, transformed, and brought into the kingdom oflight. We no longer walk in covetousness or idolatry. Ifind it interesting that Paul repeats the same words in verse 5 that he usedearlier in verse 3—fornication, uncleanness, and covetousness. He says thesethings are not even to be named among us. Then he adds that the covetous personis an idolater. This same truth is taught in Colossians 3:5, where we are toldthat covetousness is idolatry.

John 1:4-13 – The Light of the World Please turn in your Bibles to John 1:4-13. We started this new series in the Gospel of John two weeks ago. Remember the 5 “J”s of John. John, the apostle who is the author; Jews who were John's primary audience; Jerusalem where much of the setting took place; Jesus, of course, the focus of the book; and Jehovah – the emphasis that Jesus is God in the flesh. Then last week, we jumped in to verses 1-3. John's Gospel account doesn't begin with Jesus' genealogy nor the angels announcing of his coming, nor his birth in a manger. No, rather, John begins much earlier. He goes back to creation itself - the beginning of time. He reveals that Jesus is the very Word of God. He has always been and continues to be God. He is One with the Father and the Spirit. He has always existed. He is Christ, through whom God created all things. He begins there because he wants his readers to know that Jesus is truly God and creator. That brings us to verses 4-13. Instead of focusing on Christ's identity, we now learn about his purpose. The Word, who is Christ, is the light of the world. You'll hear that in our text. As I read, you will also hear a reference to a John. This John is not the Apostle John, but rather John the Baptist. He was sent by God to testify to Christ. Let's now come to God's Word Reading of John 1:4-13 Prayer Light is essential for life. I think you would agree with me.Without light, we cannot see. It exposes reality and reveals our surroundings. It purifies and penetrates. Light carries information across galaxies. The light of the sun warms the earth and perks us up. It gives energy to plants and trees. Really countless organisms use light to sustain life. It's no wonder that light is used in Scripture to illustrate God and his goodness and purity. And it's no wonder that darkness, the absence of light, illustrates sin and evil. That's because we intuitively know what light is. We understand it's illuminating nature. When it is dark outside and we need to walk or drive somewhere, we know we need light to see where we are going. We understand that evil and unrighteousness often happens in the dark. Take the Psalms for example. God's Word is described as being a light to our path. Elsewhere, God is described as being light. In our call to worship, we read that “The Lord is our light and our salvation, whom shall we fear?” We're also told in the Psalms that blessed are those that walk in the light of the Lord. And in them, we're given the contrast between light and darkness. God's light dawns in the darkness for the upright. And that is just the Psalms. So, when we get to John 1 and we read in these verses about the Word being the light of men and the darkness not overcoming it… and John the Baptist witnessing to Christ's light, we can understand it. The light of truth and righteousness in contrast to the darkness of sin and evil. We are to see the light of Christ and walk in his light. By the way, we are still in the opening verses of John's Gospel. We call this John's prologue. He's setting the stage by revealing the various themes in his book. And one of those themes is light. It's actually one of the apostle John's favorite themes. He speaks of light not just in this book but also his three letter and in the book of Revelation. In your bulletin on page 4, you'll see an outlin. We'll consider 3 things about this light. #1. The Revealing and Overpowering Light of Christ (verses 4-5) #2. Witnessing to the Light of Christ (verses 6-8) And #3. Receiving and Rejecting the Light of Christ (verses 9-13) 1. The Revealing and Overpowering Light of Christ (verses 4-5) Again, number 1 - the revealing and overpowering light of Christ. As John continues to reveal who this Word of God is, he says this in verse 4: “in him was life.” Prepositions are important. The preposition used here is “in” and not “through.” “In him was life.” It's speaking of Christ's life. It's not talking about the flesh and blood life of Jesus' human nature nor is it talking about our life in him. Rather, it's talking about Jesus' divine nature. We know that from the next few words. His life was shining forth and was penetrating the darkness. So the life spoken of here is Christ's being and existence as God. Notice it's the same verb that we considered last week - “was”. It's imperfect active. Christ's life always was and continues to be. I like how one commentator described Christ's life:  "[it] refers to the fulness of God's essence, his glorious attributes: holiness, truth, …love, omnipotence, sovereignty. This full, blessed life is said to have been present in the Word and this from all eternity…" It is that life – the fulness of God in Christ – which is the light of men. And it makes sense. Christ's righteousness and holiness and truth and love is our light. It is the source of light for all humanity. I mentioned that this theme is all through this book. Let me highlight three instances. ·      In chapter 3, Jesus said, "the light has come into the world, but people loved darkness rather than the light because their works are evil." In those verses he goes on to describe what it means to walk in the light. ·      In chapter 8, the most famous one, Jesus said, "I am the light of the world, whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" ·      And in chapter 12, Jesus said, "while you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light" In these different passages, Jesus is calling us to #1 see his light; #2 believe his light and #3 walk in his light. As we work our way through John, we'll have plenty of time to consider all the aspects of light applied to Jesus, but as an introduction, verses 4-5, give us two of them. 1. First, the light of Christ's life is there for all to see – verse 4. And it emanates from his life. SO, his eternal being and nature are being displayed to us through his light. His goodness and truth and righteousness are there for us to see. And when we see it, God is revealing to us, Christ's nature. We see him when we see his light. Through his light, God reveals Christ and shows us that we need his light. He is our light… which includes of course, the path we are to walk in his goodness and righteousness and truth. So, his light reveals his life and our need for his light. 2. Second, verse 5, his light reveals darkness. Did you notice in verse 5 that the verb is now present tense. The light, it says, "shines in the darkness." The light of Christ IS revealing unrighteous and evil. That's what light does - it reveals what is in the dark. By the way, this is another parallel to Genesis. This time John 1 recognizes that creation has been corrupted by evil and sin – that is the darkness mentioned. Elsewhere in John, we read about the "works of darkness." Darkness is that which is opposed to the light of Christ. It's anything contrary to his light – That would include wickedness and foolishness and unrighteousness. And notice that the darkness has not overcome the light. Other translations use other words there like the darkness has not apprehended the light… or comprehend it or extinguished it. Indeed, darkness cannot put out the light. I shared this once before, but back when I was in college, I spent several days on a mission trip to Sweden. We were ministering to kids from eastern Europe who had come to a camp. For one of our outings, we went to a very large cave in the area. It was safe. You know, it had railings and the such, and you could go way back into the cave. And so we did, we went as far as we could. And then we all decided to turn off our flashlights. It was dark. I mean like dark dark. You couldn't see your hand in front of your face. One of the other leaders had brought a lighter – you know a small butane lighter. And he lit it. That little flame lit up the cave. It was quite amazing how such a small light could illuminate the darkness. We could see one another and we could see the cave around us. And then we read some of the Scriptures about light. I think we read from John 1 – I don't know for sure, but it makes sense. “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” Darkness cannot overcome light. Darkness is, in fact, the absence of light. So, when light is revealed, darkness will be exposed. And that is what Christ has done. His love and justice and holiness and truth has revealed the darkness – evil and sin. It not only reveals it, but it cannot be overcome by it. It's really the other way around. The light overcomes the darkness. Christ has triumphed over the darkness. And that triumph has come through the cross and in his resurrection. Evil and sin have been fully exposed. The light of Christ in his life is in the act of overcoming darkness and revealing the path of life and purifying our hearts and minds. And one day soon, evil and sin will be defeated forever when the light of Christ comes to full fruition… when Jesus' return in Glory for all to see. Well, there is a lot more to say about light, which we'll get to as we work through John. The summary of point 1 is that Christ's light reveals his nature, shows us our need, and exposes sin and evil. 2. Witnessing to the Light of Christ (verses 6-8) Number 2. Witnessing to the light of Christ. In verses 6 and following, the Apostle John begins to transition from the lofty truths about the Word of God to that Word who has come in human flesh. We're told of another John, as I mentioned, who was sent to bear witness to the light. Notice that the word "witness" is used three times. His role is to testify to the light. We call John the Baptist the last Old Testament prophet because he was sent as the final prophet before Christ. John's purpose in being sent was to point to Jesus as the Messiah – the Savior – who was promised to come. And I want you to notice the contrast in verses 6-8. The contrast is between Christ, the Word of God, and John the Baptist. ·      John was not God, but rather, as verse 6 says, he was a man. ·      Furthermore, John was not eternal nor do things find their existence in him. Rather, he was sent by God, as it says. ·      And as verse 8 puts it, He was not the light, but came to bear witness to the light." ·      Later in this chapter, John the Baptist himself will say, "I am not the Christ." It appears from these verses that some were confused about the difference between John the Baptist and Jesus. We're not told the specifics, but perhaps some saw John and Jesus as equals. Or perhaps there was competition between their respective followers. Maybe some said, "I am a disciple of John" or maybe even, "I was baptized by John." Or, I was baptized by one of Jesus' disciples. Isn't that human nature? John Calvin is my boy. Oh yeah, well, Charles Spurgeon is mine. Well, neither of them can come close to Augustine or the early church fathers.  It's what we do, isn't it. We don't know what dynamic was at play. But we do know what these verses make absolutely clear. John the Baptist was not the light. Rather, he was a witness to the light. In other words, he was verifying that Jesus was the true light. By the way, the theme of being a witness runs throughout the book. I did a search on the word "witness" and it is used 27 times in the Gospel of John. The first several are about John the Baptist bearing witness to Christ. But that is not the only witness. God the Father and God the Spirit bear witness to Jesus as the Son. Jesus' works and miracles bear witness that he is Christ. Jesus himself bears witness that he is God the Son. Jesus's disciples bear witness to him as God in the flesh. That will definitely be a theme we come across over and over In a couple of weeks, we'll come back to John the Baptist. If you scan down to verses 19 and following, you'll see that we're given specifics of how John witnessed to Christ. But the bigger point is that John the Baptist was not pointing to himself. Rather, he was witnessing to Christ as the light. John was like a mirror, you know. He reflected the light of God and directed people to the source of God's light. And that source was and in Christ – the light of world. 3. Receiving and Rejecting the Light of Christ (verses 9-13) Which brings us to #3. Receiving and rejecting the light of Christ. A couple of weeks ago, we considered the purpose statement of John's Gospel. That was in chapter 20 verse 31. We read that John wrote these things… do you remember why? so that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing, we may have life in his name. In chapter 1, when we get to verses 9-13, it's here that we get the first glimpse of John's purpose in writing. He wants people to see Jesus for who he is as the light. He wants people to believe. And in these verses, John sets up the major conflict that almost every single chapter confronts. Who will believe? In verse 10, John writes that the light is in the world, and then he reiterates that the world was made through him. But then he makes two important statements. #1. End of verse 10 - The world did not know him and #2. Verse 11 - his own people did not receive him. The Jewish people didn't receive Jesus, even though they had been given the covenants, the law, the prophecies, and the promises. All of those things were witnessing to the light, yet, when the light came, many of the Jewish people did not recognize him. Yet, he was the very one who created the world and whom they had been waiting for… for centuries. He had come, but they, as it says, received him not. This is why John is writing. He wants people to see the light and believe. He wants #1 the world to see the light.  AND #2 he wants to confront the Jewish people about rejecting the light. We see that theme throughout the book. John writes that many did receive Jesus, include many of the Jews. In fact, the word “many” is used many times. Let me highlight a few. ·      Chapter 2 – "many believed in his name who saw the signs he was doing" ·      Chapter 4 – "Many Samaritans believed" ·      Chapter 6 and Chapter 7 and Chapter 10 each include the phrase “many believed.” ·      Chapter 11 – listen to this one: "many of the Jews who… had seen what he did, believed" ·      Chapter 12 – a similar thing – "many on account of [Lazarus – who Jesus had raised]  were believing in Jesus." And also in 12, "many of the authorities believed in him" It's quite pervasive. Yes, many rejected him, and we are going to see that, but many would come to believe. He wanted his readers to know that… because he wanted his readers to likewise believe. I want to take a brief tangent and talk about application. You know, in the last 2-3 years we have studied Proverbs, 2 Corinthians, and Malachi. Think about the different kinds of life application in each – they are very different. ·      In Proverbs, it was about applying the wisdom of God in the rubber-meets-the road decisions of life. How do we follow God's path? ·      2 Corinthians included many things, but a big one was living with Gospel hope in affliction and pain and conflict. ·      Malachi, if you remember, was very different. It dug deep into our heart idols and our worship and our marriages… and it called us to repent. Isn't that quite a diversity of life application? But let me ask, what is the primary application of John? What does John's Gospel emphasize over and over for his readers… including us? The answer is, we're called to believe. Yes, we are going to see ways in which our lives do not reflect the light of Christ. But the main application of John is to believe. Believe in Christ. Believe in the Word of God. Believe in his promises. Believe in the Salvation that he offers. Believe in the Father and Spirit and Son as One God. It's to turn from our unbelief in whatever ways we haven't believed, and to believe. And that applies to all of us. As the father who had a child with an unclean spirit said – said to Jesus, "I believe, but help my unbelief." That captures our hearts. Briefly in closing, verses 12 and 13 reveal the blessing that those who do believe will receive. It says, "…to all who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born not of blood nor of the flesh nor the will of man, but of God." New life in him. There's a lot in there in that last sentence. I almost shortened our sermon text, again. We don't have sufficient time today to cover it. However, it's yet another theme that will come up in the book - being born again and becoming children of God. It's a big emphasis in chapter 3. So, we'll get there soon. But the summary is that those who believe in Jesus as the light of the world, will be given new life. Will become God's children, born anew in him. So, may we believe in Jesus Christ, who is the light of the world. The darkness will not overcome his light. He has come and has offered his life so that we may live. May we believe in his name.

The closest disciple to Jesus and the one who received the greatest revelation from Jesus is the Apostle John. John's writings proclaim the revealed Jesus, His words, His commandments and His joy for us to receive through the way of love. In this sermon series, explore this way of love that Jesus lived and invited us into with Him. GIVE HERE - https://awake.church/give

Thank you for joining us for the first message of our new series, Built to Last. This series is based on the book of 1 John, written by the Apostle John near the end of his life, so John shares his perspective on how God has been faithful in building believers, churches, and ministries that can stand firm. In this worship service, we example how God leads us to build our lives to last by focusing upward, inward, and outward. If you prayed to make Jesus your Lord today, we want to rejoice with you! If you would want someone to pray with you, we are eager to do so! If you would like more information about our church, we're want to share. Please text the word "NEXT" to 407-77 so we can engage with you. For more information about our in-person Sunday morning services, visit https://horizonwestchurch.com. You can also learn more about our midweek events at https://horizonwestchurch.com/events.

Join us for this week's sermon!Whether you're seeking hope, direction, or a deeper connection with God, this message is for you. Each week, we open God's Word together to find truth, encouragement, and strength for the journey.

Comparison is the silent killer of joy. It steals your confidence, shifts your focus, and leaves you spiritually drained. In this episode, we dive into 1 Samuel 18 to look at the lives of Saul and David. David's victory over Goliath should have been a moment of national unity, but instead, it exposed the dangerous power of comparison in King Saul's heart.Join us as we explore how to break free from the "sideways energy" of jealousy and find true confidence in your identity in Christ.Key Takeaways:Comparison Strangles Your Joy: Saul had every reason to celebrate, but he let a song of praise for David turn into personal insecurity. When we look sideways at what others have, we forget the goodness God has already given us.Comparison Stunts Your Growth: Jealousy is like "cancer in the bones" (Proverbs 14:30). It keeps you from being mentored by or mentoring others because you view everyone as a threat rather than a partner in God's kingdom.Comparison Steals Your Focus: You cannot follow Jesus effectively while watching someone else's calling. What you stare at is what you steer toward—if you stare at others' success, you'll steer toward envy.Episode Highlights:[00:00] The Celebration That Turned Into Jealousy David's victory was celebrated by the nation, but Saul fixated on the lyrics: "Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands!" (1 Samuel 18:7). Saul heard a threat where he should have heard a victory for God.[04:30] The Modern Comparison Trap Social media has made comparison effortless. We discuss how "scrolling" affects our spiritual health and why Psalm 34:10 is the antidote: "Those who seek the Lord will lack no good thing."[09:15] Sideways Energy Saul spent more time watching David than ruling his kingdom. We look at Jesus' words to Peter in John 21:22: "What is that to you? As for you, follow me."[15:45] From Competition to Confidence The Gospel replaces insecurity with identity. Like the Apostle John, we can move from chasing status to resting in the love of the Father (1 John 3:1).Scripture References:1 Samuel 18:7-12 – Saul's jealousy of David.Psalm 34:10 – Lacking no good thing in the Lord.Proverbs 14:30 – The physical and spiritual toll of jealousy.John 21:22 – Jesus' command to focus on our own walk.1 John 3:1 – Our identity as children of God.Mentions & Resources:Learn more about David's life and biblical leadership at pursueGOD.org.Start a Conversation: Use this episode to talk with a friend or small group. Find the full discussion guide at pursueGOD.org/david.

In this special Candlelight Christmas message, Pastor Lacey invites us to pause, breathe, and receive a fresh revelation of the love of God made flesh in Jesus Christ — Emmanuel, God with us. Throughout Advent, we celebrate the God of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. On this holy night, the center candle is lit, reminding us that Jesus is the Light of the world and the perfect embodiment of the Father's love. From a quiet moment in prayer to the powerful truth of Scripture, Pastor Lacey unfolds the heart of the Gospel through the book of John: the great revelation of love. This message centers on a deeply personal truth — God doesn't just love the world in general; He loves you. Just as the Apostle John identified himself as "the one whom Jesus loves," we are invited to define our lives not by roles, titles, or achievements, but by relationship. We are known by the Father as those whom Jesus loves. Through John 3, John 14, John 17, and 1 John 4, we're reminded that the Word became flesh because of love, that our access to the Father is through Jesus alone, and that the same love the Father has for Jesus is the love He has for us. This love is not earned. It is received. And it is made real to us by the Holy Spirit, who assures us that we are not orphans, but sons and daughters. Pastor Lacey also draws our hearts to a beautiful and often overlooked aspect of God's love: His patience. As we wait for Christ's return, we're reminded that God is not slow in keeping His promise — He is patient, desiring that none would perish, but that all would come to repentance. This message is an invitation to receive God's love in a greater measure, to rest in His patience, and to remember how sweet it truly is to be loved by Him. As you listen, allow the Holy Spirit to highlight what spoke to your heart. Receive His love. Receive His Spirit. Receive His patience. And take a moment to thank Him for loving you so deeply.

In Genesis 3 we have the record of how sin first entered the world through the yielding to temptation by the first created humans - Adam and Eve. The Apostle Paul says also, that at this time death also first came to the Adamic creation as a result of sin - Romans 5verses12. Adam and Eve after their creation - Adam from the dust (Genesis 2verses7), and Eve from Adam's side during a God-induced sleep (2verses20-25) - the man unable to find a suitable partner from the lesser creation; and feeling first, lonely; then joyous with a compatible companion. Chapter 3 commences with an introduction to the snake, who at that era had great powers of observation; limited reasoning capacity; and the ability to talk. The snake suggested that Adam and Eve were being deceived and held back by the Elohim (God). And so, after seeing the fruit of the "tree of the knowledge of good and evil" was attractive (pleasant to the eyes); it was good, and an excellent quality (good for food); and its clinching appeal - "a tree to be desired to make one wise" (the pride of life. Paul tells us in Philippians 2 that Adam and Eve grasped for equality with God - which thing our Lord Jesus Christ never did when tempted. The Apostle John tells us in his first letter chapter 2verses15-17 that all temptation and sin fall in one or more of these categories. Having sinned they were expelled from the garden; James tells us in chapter 1 the process of sin within every human mind -verses 13-15. Having disobeyed God, He the Almighty must in justice enforce the law He had given. Adam and Eve now had the sentence of death activated within them - this is called "mortality". What was possible before transgressing was now "a law within them" (Romans 7verses21-25) - i.e. now an inevitability. The human race now found that from this point forward all descendants from the first human parents found that sin cannot be overcome in their lives every time that each of us is subjected to temptation -Romans 6 tells us that they were bond slaves to sin. It required God to produce a Saviour, His Son, who although bearing the bias to sin within himself; this being the entail of the effects of Adam and Eve's first sin, would himself be sinless - though Jesus was of our identical nature (Hebrews 2verses12-18.

In Genesis 3 we have the record of how sin first entered the world through the yielding to temptation by the first created humans - Adam and Eve. The Apostle Paul says also, that at this time death also first came to the Adamic creation as a result of sin - Romans 5verses12. Adam and Eve after their creation - Adam from the dust (Genesis 2verses7), and Eve from Adam's side during a God-induced sleep (2verses20-25) - the man unable to find a suitable partner from the lesser creation; and feeling first, lonely; then joyous with a compatible companion. Chapter 3 commences with an introduction to the snake, who at that era had great powers of observation; limited reasoning capacity; and the ability to talk. The snake suggested that Adam and Eve were being deceived and held back by the Elohim (God). And so, after seeing the fruit of the "tree of the knowledge of good and evil" was attractive (pleasant to the eyes); it was good, and an excellent quality (good for food); and its clinching appeal - "a tree to be desired to make one wise" (the pride of life. Paul tells us in Philippians 2 that Adam and Eve grasped for equality with God - which thing our Lord Jesus Christ never did when tempted. The Apostle John tells us in his first letter chapter 2verses15-17 that all temptation and sin fall in one or more of these categories. Having sinned they were expelled from the garden; James tells us in chapter 1 the process of sin within every human mind - verses 13-15. Having disobeyed God, He the Almighty must in justice enforce the law He had given. Adam and Eve now had the sentence of death activated within them - this is called "mortality". What was possible before transgressing was now "a law within them" (Romans 7verses21-25) - i.e. now an inevitability. The human race now found that from this point forward all descendants from the first human parents found that sin cannot be overcome in their lives every time that each of us is subjected to temptation - Romans 6 tells us that they were bond slaves to sin. It required God to produce a Saviour, His Son, who although bearing the bias to sin within himself; this being the entail of the effects of Adam and Eve's first sin, would himself be sinless - though Jesus was of our identical nature (Hebrews 2verses12-18.

Who—or what—are you becoming? The Apostle John reminds us that we are children of God, being shaped into His likeness by what we focus our hearts and minds on. Just as a mirror reflects whatever stands before it, our lives mirror whatever captures our attention. This message encourages us to pause at the end of one year and the start of another, asking “Am I reflecting Christ or something else?” As we fix our gaze on Jesus, we discover not only who He is but also who we are becoming in Him.

The Apostle John said “the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us.” This Sunday, we're going to be looking at the construction of the tabernacle and how it all beautifully points back to Jesus.

In this message from 1 John 4, we look at Christmas through the eyes of the Apostle John near the end of his life. After decades of ministry, suffering, and loss, John doesn't offer advice for fear—he offers good news: God is love. This teaching explores: Why fear doesn't just live in our thoughts, but in our nervous system How God's love takes the initiative long before we do What “perfect love” actually means—and how it casts out fear Why the opposite of love isn't hate, but fear How the incarnation of Jesus is God's answer to human anxiety Rather than calling us to be braver, Christmas invites us to receive love more fully—a love that is sacrificial, unconditional, and strong enough to heal even our deepest fears. If fear has shaped your expectations, habits, or faith, this message is an invitation to step further into the love of God—and to discover the freedom that comes with it. “There is no fear in love. Instead, perfect love drives out fear.” — 1 John 4:18

Throughout his writings, the Apostle John uses the imagery of light frequently to illustrate the need for Jesus in our lives. In this lesson, Evangelist Gavin Williams traces this thread through the books of John, 1 John, and Revelation to help us become children of light.

Sunday Dec 21st 6am (pst) / 9am (est) LIVE-Stream Bible Study on Sunday Mornings... NO resurrected Christ, NO Gospel... plain & simple! Let's explore the Apostle John account of that glorious 3rd day after Jesus' burial. Rumble Channel: https://rumble.com/c/HisGeneration Watch Video here: https://youtube.com/live/A_YZ5f-p0hg?feature=share  

Send us a textMany people throughout Christian history have been fascinated by the identity of the antichrist. The Apostle John is actually the only biblical write to use the term antichrist! He uses it 5 times in his first two letters.  Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour. 1 John 2:18John must have been remembering the words Jesus had spoken recorded by Matthew (24),Mark (13), and Luke (21).“Be careful that no one leads you astray.  For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,' and will lead many astray. Matthew 24:4John's concern is the theological identity of the antichrist.  By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God,  and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already.  1 John 4:2-3 For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Such a one is the deceiver and the antichrist. 2 John 7Thus the spirit of antichrist is found in all those who deny the reality of the incarnation, the coming of the Word, the eternal Son, into human flesh through the virgin birth by Mary of Jesus of Nazareth.  Jesus became a true human without ceasing to be true deity in his one person for the salvation of sinners. An early Christian confess states,  Without controversy, the mystery of godliness is great: God was revealed in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, and received up in glory. 1 Timothy 3:16 WEBIt is this truth of who Jesus the Christ (Messiah) is that makes him the one mediator. There is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom... 1 Timothy 2:5Thus, John concludes,  Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son.  No one who denies the Son has the Father. Whoever confesses the Son has the Father also. 1 John 2:22-23Bible Insights with Wayne ConradContact: 8441 Hunnicut Rd Dallas, Texas 75228email: Att. Bible Insights Wayne Conradgsccdallas@gmail.com (Good Shepherd Church) Donation https://gsccdallas.orghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJTZX6qasIrPmC1wQpben9ghttps://www.facebook.com/waconrad or gscchttps://www.sermonaudio.com/gsccSpirit, Truth and Grace MinistriesPhone # 214-324-9915 leave message with number for call backPsalms 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

2nd and 3rd John are short personal letters written fairly close to each other, around 95-96 AD. The first of these letters being to a beloved friend termed "the elect (or chosen by God) lady". The aged Apostle had a deep love for this sister because of her hospitality and faithfulness. His salutations of, "Grace, mercy and peace" come from a mature faith and are the same as those of the Apostle Paul to Timothy and Titus; the so called "Pastoral letters". Verses 4-11 express John's great joy that this wonderful sister's children had chosen to walk in the Truth. John reiterates the new command, "to walk in love"; frequently spoken of in his gospel account and first letter. He also warns of the false teachers (antichrists) mentioned at length in his first letter. The woman and her faithful family - the ecclesia - must abide in the true teaching of the Father and His Beloved Son. Anyone walking contrary to that Truth, in behaviour or doctrine, was to beforbidden the fellowship of the saints. John's final greetings, of verses 12-13, express his hope of catching up with the elect lady face to face, rather than through a letter. 3rd John was written to a friend who had often been the old Apostle's host - Gaius - who was deeply "loved in the Lord". This brother was a Thessalonian, who had been converted to the Truth by the Apostle Paul. Verses 5-12 speak of the supporters of ecclesial work and others who were the opponents - the enemies of the Faith. Gaius and those like him had shown great hospitality to visitors, who have preached the Gospel. Support for such workers was commanded by our Lord Jesus Christ when he sent forth the 72 in Luke 10. Those of us who cannot personally go into the mission fields have a responsibility to support both in prayer and financially those who undertake the Great Commission i.e. the taking the Gospel to the world (Matthew 28). John says that those who do so have become fellow helpers of the Truth. The Apostle warns his readers of being a puffed up, self-important errorist, who not only dragged down the faithful, but would take an aggressive stand against all who, like the Apostle John, would take a stand for truth and moral uprightness. Don't be imitators of the evil, but only of the true (see Ephesians 5verses1-21). In his final greetings the Apostle speaks of his desire to spend time with the faithful ecclesia with Gaius in a face-to- face context, rather than via letter. Peace will be with the faithful.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

Are We Entering a 1,000-Year Age of Peace - "Where's Your Light?: Ascension Edition" by Douglas F. GradyApostle John's prophecy of the 1,000-year reign of peace, penned over two thousand years ago in his Book of Revelation, is a beacon of hope. As we stand on the threshold of the millennium, John's words guide us towards a future where the world transitions to a state of Heaven on Earth, the 'world to come,' a term in the Bible that refers to a future era of peace and harmony. This prophecy fills us with optimism and a sense of purpose as we ponder its implications on our current state of affairs.As we step into the new millennium, the Apostle John's prophecy sheds light on the transformative changes awaiting our world. It not only answers the question of how the world can evolve into a more loving environment for the future but also ignites a sense of hope and anticipation about the speed of this transformation. Moreover, John's revelation about the end of control by the Dark Forces promises an end to the bloody conflicts and devastating turmoil that have marred human history, filling us with excitement and hope for the future.Mr. Grady's spiritual journey is a unique and compelling one. In the fall of 1999, he underwent a profound spiritual baptism from God, a transformative event that led him to practice Self-Realization Fellowship. His journey began with meditation, which prepared him to receive the spark of love that engulfed his entire soul. His path led him to meet Apostle John through Marilyn Redmond for the Door to Glory book in 2011, and he has since published the book Where Is Your Light in 2023. We eagerly await his subsequent publication, The Incredible Journey of Our Savior.AMAZONhttps://douglasgradybooks.comhttps://bookstolifemarketing.com/http://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/121825app.mp3    

All Episodes Wayne A Conrad The Antichrists Identified Episode Downloads 0 Total 0 Today Description Send us a text Many people throughout Christian history have been fascinated by the identity of the antichrist. The Apostle John is actually the only biblical write to use the term antichrist! He uses it 5 times in his first two letters. Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour. 1 John 2:18 John must have been remembering the words Jesus had spoken ."Be careful that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will lead many astray. Matthew 24:4 John's concern is the theological identity of the antichrist. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. 1 John 4:2-3 For many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Such a one is the deceiver and the antichrist. 2 John 7 Thus the spirit of antichrist is found in all those who deny the reality of the incarnation, the coming of the Word, the eternal Son, into human flesh through the virgin birth by Mary of Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus became a true human without ceasing to be true deity in his one person for the salvation of sinners.

In 1 John 5verses1-5 we are told the source of overcoming the world - by the faith of the son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. And by that faith I live. An early Christadelphian writer, John Thomas said, that this was by a faith, which works by love and purifiers the soul (life). John Thomas was alluding to the early verses of Galatians 5. The Apostle John tells us that such a belief is evidence of our divine begetting. And, for us, it is the assurance ("by this we know") that God is with us. We can be more than conquerors through Him who loves us (Romans 8). The work, spoken of in chapter 2, is not about our love, but we do love the Father with all of our heart. And this love of the Father which impels us was the motive force of the life of the Son of God. Read Romans 8verses31-39 slowly and pause and ponder. Verses 6-12 provide testimony concerning the Son of God. Our Lord Jesus who came by water and blood - the water in which he was immersed at his baptism and the water of the Word of God with which his mind was saturated; and the blood of his sacrificial offering of himself. This offering was sanctified by the Word of God and prayer and pleased his Father. John is alluding to his witnessing of the crucifixion (John 19verses34-37). Verse 7 from the ESV reads, and I quote in full, "For there are three that testifyverses". Most of the better translations recognise the insertion into the text of additional words which aren't found in most of the older manuscripts. The additional words used in the KJV (and some other versions are admitted by most modern translations to be spurious and added by a Jesuit monk, Immanuel Tapsensis). Verse 8 identifies the three witnesses to our Lord's divine Sonship as - the Spirit, the water and the blood. Under the law at least two corroborating witnesses were needed to determine truth. John affirms total agreement among these witnesses. Additionally, God bore testimony, Matthew 3verses15-17, to His Son. And only in His Son, and through His Son's work, we have life. From verses 13-21 the beloved disciple John has written these things for our assurance ("that we may know"). We have known and believed upon the name above every name (Philippians 2verses9-11), and the only name in which there is salvation (Acts 4verses12). And through continuance in this Name salvation is assured. John repeats that the Father's ear is ever open to His children's pleas. Verses 16-17 reiterates that when we love the brethren we will help them (as they will likewise help us) when we stumble (Galatians 6verses1-5). Such advice and correction will prevent rejection at the coming judgment of our Lord Jesus Christ. But, for the habitual and lawless sinner, who has abandoned any attempt to continue walking in the light there remains "no offering for sin" (Hebrews 10verses26-39). Being begotten by God, through His Word (1 Peter 1verses22-25), we overcome in faith and walk in the way of His commandments. The world and its ways allure, but cannot conquer us. Finally, says John, "Keep yourself from idols" - a specific allusion to the Ten Commandments (especially numbers 1 and 10 which bookend all the others). Keeping ourselves from idols is about the tendency within our human nature to always look after ourselves before applying ourselves to living according to the ways of our Almighty Father.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

This Advent season we are studying John 1, where the Apostle John provides an intricately beautiful description of who Jesus truly was. Join Pastor Ben as he leads us through this next week of our study!Support the show

At Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Charleston, SC, our senior pastor Rev. Craig Bailey continued his mini Advent sermon series, looking closely this week at the life of the Apostle John.

God Is Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, and You Pray to One Triune Being – God, the Creator of the Universe MESSAGE SUMMARY: In Mark 8:29, Jesus asked His Disciples the question He asks you: “And he asked them, ‘But who do you say that I am?' Peter answered him, ‘You are the Christ {Messiah}.'". As Paul writes in Ephesians 4:1-6: “There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift.”.  God IS Father, IS Son, and He IS Holy Spirit. Jesus told the crowd in the Temple; and He tells us, as it is recorded for us now by the Apostle John, in John 10:25,30: “Jesus answered them, ‘I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father's name bear witness about me . . . I and the Father are one.'”. Also, Jesus provides more insights to your Trinitarian relationship with God in John 14:18-20: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.". God is one God, but He is in three natures: God is Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Therefore, when you pray, you are praying to one triune being – God, the Creator of the Universe.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, help me to be still and to wait patiently for you in silence. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 125). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, He will supply all my needs (Philippians 4:19). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Ephesians 4:1-8; John 10:24-30; Mark 1:9-11; Psalms 139a:1-12. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “A Day Is Coming – Part 2”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

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

God Gives a Jesus Follower's Life Meaning and Purpose, Satisfies their Hunger to Know Their Life's Purpose, and Forgives Their Sins MESSAGE SUMMARY: As Jesus tells us in John 15:12-14, that you, as His follower, are His “friend: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends.". God became flesh, and He dwelt among us. God became human to draw you into a personal relationship with Him. In John 1:14, the Apostle John identifies Jesus as the “Son of the Father”: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.". God alone can satisfy the meaning and purpose of your life. God alone can satisfy your hunger to know your life's meaning. Most importantly, God alone can give you forgiveness of your sins as Paul tells us in Colossians 2:13-14: “And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.". Jesus' life, miracles, death, and His Resurrection are invitations to a life-long personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe. Our personal relationship with God is through His gift, to Jesus Followers, of the Holy Spirit.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, help me to grab hold of you today. I need you. Set me free to begin reorienting my life around you, and you alone. Help me to pay attention to and honor how you have uniquely made me. Thank you for the gift of rest. In Jesus' name, amen.       Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 122). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Fear Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Faithfulness. “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): Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 1:10-13; Colossians 2:10-15; Psalms137:1-9. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “A Day Is Coming – Part 2”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

A Day Is Coming – Part 2 MESSAGE SUMMARY: We are in the season of Advent, which means “coming” or “arrival”. The Church begins this season of “arrival” or Advent as the time we recognize and celebrate the “arrival” of Jesus – both Jesus' “first coming” and His “second coming”. We celebrate Jesus' “first coming” on Christmas Eve. The season of Advent is, also, a season of hope; and Advent is the beginning of our Church's “New Year”. In the book of Isaiah, Isaiah 24 through Isaiah 26 presents prophesies regarding the future about 600 years before the birth of Jesus. More specifically, Isaiah 24:1-13 describes the destruction of the world resulting from the sinful acts of God's people. However, Isaiah 24:14-16 describes a period of joy and hope in the world. As in the time of Isaiah, we should not give credence to the prophesies, by fellow humans today, of the world's destruction and/or a specific date for Jesus' ”second coming” {arrival}. Jesus told us both not to be “anxious” about those things that we cannot control and that “no one knows the day and the hour” of His return (i. e. Jesus “second coming”). Rather, in this season of Advent, we recognize the hope brought to the world by God's grace and His gift of Jesus. Our hope is built upon Jesus' birth, death on the cross, and His Resurrection all providing us with the means for our Redemption, Salvation, and our Eternal Life. However, there will be a day when Jesus returns again to earth (i. e. Jesus' “second coming”) on a day that cannot be predicted by humans. Jesus' “second coming” will establish His Kingdom and a new Heaven. Therefore, even though we do not know the when of Jesus' “second coming” we haves God's promise of the what Jesus' “second coming” will mean. We need not fear the “second coming”. The “second coming” is a promise by God and should lead us, in this season of Advent, to renew our preparation in hope and not fear and anxiety. We have God's promise that nothing can separate us from His love, as the Apostle John tells us in 1 John 4:16-19: “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. We love because he first loved us." We do not want to get so wrapped up in the details of Jesus' “second coming” so that, like the First Century Jews, we miss Jesus. One certainty, in Jesus' “second coming”, is our “Judgement”. Jesus' “second coming” will “arrive”, but we have nothing to fear if we are ready. We are “ready” by living lives of Faithfulness to the Gospel and through Repentance. Is there something in your life with which you have not dealt with in Repentance? If so, you are not “ready”. We must be willing to follow Jesus and to respond to those things He asks of us. The Apostle John tell us in Revelation 22:20-21: “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The Grace of Lord Jesus be with all. Amen”. Do you want to be ready for Jesus' “second coming”? If so, are you ready?   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: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV):  Isaiah 24:1-16; Romans 8:38-39; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 1 Corinthians 15:12-19; 1 John 4:16-19; Revelation 20:4; Matthew 25:31-32; Johnb5:24; 1 Corinthians 11:28-32; Romans 11:25-27; Luke 1:31-33; Hebrews 1:8; Hebrews 10:37-39; Revelation 22:20-21. (Click the blue below to read the full Bible text for these scripture references in BOLD.). A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “God, the Father, Is Spirit; Jesus Followers Must Worship the Father in Spirit and Truth with Reality and Honesty and Not a Façade”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Join us for a study through the Gospel of the Apostle John, continuing with John 3. In John 3 we will cover Nicodemus' encounter with Jesus, the gospel summary of John 3:16, and John the Baptists reaction to his disciples' concerns about Jesus' growing ministry.

The Tenth Commandment is against “coveting.”That's an old-fashioned concept that no one really seems to talk about any more.Which is a shame, because coveting is a sure way to be unhappy.This is because coveting is wanting something that isn't yours to have.Including someone else's life. And wanting something that isn't yours to have is a sure way to be miserable.It's like when Peter asked Jesus what the future held for the Apostle John.Jesus's response? “What's that to you, Peter?”It's the same for us—we are constantly allowing ourselves to covet things that aren't ours: other people's lives or bodies or families or bank accounts.The only solution to this is gratitude.

Tears and Preaching Personal anecdote about crying and preaching Preacher Billy Kelly: “I’m too big to care what you think about me crying.” Tears as an immediate result of the Holy Spirit Tears, snot, etc. as an excuse John 14:11 Philip’s request: “Show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.” Jesus’ response: “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.” “I am in the Father, and the Father in me.” “The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.” “Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake.” Jesus Christ: The God-Man 100% God and 100% man Mathematicians would say this is an impossibility People do not believe that Jesus is God Pharisees upset when Jesus equated himself to God Reason for wanting to kill Jesus: He said he was the Son of God Old Testament scriptures: indication of a Son of God? Spirit mentioned often Son of God references: prophecies about the Messiah, Emmanuel (God with us) Problem of the human heart: believing that Jesus Christ is God The Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Hard for the human mind to grasp Three are one and one are three Analogy: cherry pie with crust and filling God chose to reveal himself in three persons One no greater than the other, one no less than the other Importance of believing Jesus is God: Must bow to Christ to get to God One mediator between God and man: Jesus Christ Must be born again Reconciled unto the Father through the mediator (Jesus) The Only Begotten Son of God People take great liberties with the word of God Translations changed: “only begotten Son” to “unique one,” “only son,” or something else If Jesus is the only son, what are we? 1 John: “Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we have been called the sons of God.” Born-again believers are grafted in and adopted into the family of God Adopted in, not begotten in God’s only begotten son is Jesus Christ Trust must go into Christ Plan of God from the beginning: Recognized the way to present salvation to a sinner Had to send his only begotten son God had to become one of us for the supreme sacrifice Jesus had to take on flesh Jesus had to become what only Mary could be: a son conceived of the Holy Ghost Relevance of the birth of Jesus Christ: Virgin conceived of the Holy Ghost Not just another man born into the world The God-man was born Apart from Christ, you can’t be saved Must believe in Jesus and that he was virgin born Otherwise, he couldn’t have been God’s Son or the spotless Lamb God sent His Son, who became flesh and was God in the flesh Believe for the Very Works’ Sake Jesus’ words in John 14: “Believe me for the very works’ sake.” Raised the dead Gave sight to the blind Caused the deaf to speak and hear These works can only be done by the power of God Question to Philip: How long will you stand on the outside of simply believing in Jesus Christ? Challenge: If you truly believe in Jesus Christ, why don’t you trust him, serve him, surrender to him, and seek salvation? Jesus wasn’t just a good man, he was the God-man Many believe Jesus was a prophet They believe that Jesus existed He was a good man, a prophet, but more than that If Jesus is not the God-man to you, you’ll miss who he really was He was the only begotten Son of God Matthew 1:23 Quoting Isaiah 7:14 “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is God with us.” Somebody needs to believe in Jesus because of who He is If he had been like you or me, he would not have been spotless, perfect, and acceptable unto God the Father There had to be a body for the sacrifice God searched heaven, earth, and under the earth, and there was none worthy Jesus prayed in the garden: “Father, if it be any other way, let it pass from me. Nevertheless, thy will be done.” No other way to save us but to send His own Son In order to be sacrificed, there had to be a body born of man God made a way for a virgin to bear his son Jesus has always existed; he did not begin in Bethlehem God had to make a way for his son to become flesh in order for him to become a sacrifice Jesus could suffer in your place, die in your place, and offer up his blood unto God as the eternal atonement and sacrifice for sin Either God sent his son to die for you, or Jesus was a fake Either Jesus was a liar, or he is the Lord Jesus was either a liar or he is the king of glory today God’s plan from the beginning was to make his son one of us, except without sin Wise Men and the Birth of Jesus Matthew 23: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is God with us.” Wise men came from afar, traveled a great distance, and bowed before the young child Kings from the Orient presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh They saw a star and concluded that a king had been born They weren’t coming to find an earthly king They went to Herod and asked, “Where is he that is born king of the Jews?” God made a way for mankind to be saved through Jesus Christ The only means of salvation still is Jesus Christ John 1:14 Matthew begins with the genealogy and birth of Jesus Christ Luke tells much about the birth of Jesus Christ John introduces him this way: “And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” “In the beginning was God, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God.” The Word refers to Jesus Christ himself Jesus is the word of God, the bread of life, the sustenance Jesus was the manna and the water that kept the children of Israel alive God recognized that Jesus had to be born John concluded that the Word was made flesh No man was involved in the birth of Jesus Christ Mary asked, “How can this be, since I know not a man?” The angel Gabriel explained: “The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee; therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” Thank God for the son given that day to become the sacrifice for my soul God-man born in the lowliest of conditions All John knew to say was, “The Word was made flesh.” Relevancy of who Jesus really is He’s the God of it John said the word he said it was made flesh he said and he dwelt among us he was trying to put this down he said we beheld his glory beheld his glory he said yes We beheld His glory as of the only begotten Son of God. Salvation is 100% dependent upon His Son God made no other way of salvation but through His Son Everything that we have concerning Jesus is of necessity John 10:28 Jesus said, “And I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” No man or priest can give you eternal life The only way to get saved is through Jesus Jesus Christ is the giver of life “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father but by me.” He is the God-man, the King of glory incarnate “My Father, which is greater than I, which gave them to me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” “I and my Father are one.” Eternal life that Jesus gives is able to keep you to everlasting Jesus made a clear statement concerning his position in God This declaration fired up the Pharisees to the point they wanted to stone him Jesus is God today He’s the God-man, sent to become our sacrifice 1 John 5:7 The Holy Ghost moving through the Apostle John to clarify the position of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost “For there are three that bear record in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one.” The record needs to make the difference for you Jesus said, “I and the Father are one.” John concludes that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost are one If Jesus was just a man, he couldn’t save you God had to send his son because there was no other way to be saved We celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ because God sent his son He was born of the virgin, having conceived of the Holy Spirit of God What was born that day was God in the flesh, the second part of Godhead, the God of man You’re believing in God, not just another man The only way to get reconciled with God is to believe in Jesus Christ, His Son Distinctions in the God-Man On his mother’s side, he’s the Son of Man On his father’s side, he’s the Son of God On his mother’s side, his name is Jesus On his father’s side, his name is Emmanuel, God with us On his mother’s side, he was a carpenter On his father’s side, he’s the creator of all heaven and earth On his mother’s side, he was born in a manger On his father’s side, he’s sitting on a throne today On his mother’s side, he was visited by shepherds and worshiped by wise men On his father’s side, he’s worshipped by the entire host of heaven On his mother’s side, he had no place to lay his head On his father’s side, he has a throne that’s sitting beside the holy and sovereign Lord of all On his mother’s side, they pierced him in his side and nailed him to his hands, and he bled out and died for us On his father’s side, he lives forever and still bears the scars of the man Jesus is the only mediator between God and man On his mother’s side, he had no keys to anything of his own On his father’s side, he has the keys of hell and death On his mother’s side, he had a birth date and a death date On his father’s side, he’s Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last “I am he that liveth and was dead and am alive forevermore.” On his mother’s side, he was baptized of John in the waters of the Jordan River On his father’s side, he baptizes all the believers with the Holy Spirit On his mother’s side, he was the healer of men On his father’s side, he’s the healer of our soul On his mother’s side, he calmed the raging sea On his father’s side, he created the sea itself On his mother’s side, he thirsted on the cross On his father’s side, he’s the fountain of living water for all that will believe him On his mother’s side, he was falsely condemned by the high priest On his father’s side, he sits as my high priest and ever makes intercession for me On his mother’s side, he shed his own blood for our sins On his father’s side, he took all that blood back and carried it up unto the Father as the payment for my sin On his mother’s side, he died on the cross On his father’s side, he had power to raise from the dead On his mother’s side, he was judged and condemned by sinful men On his father’s side, he is a judge and will judge rightly in that day Invitation “No man can come to the Father but by me.” God made a way for you to be saved All He’s asking you today is to come, trust Him, believe in yourself, confess your sin, and call upon the one that can forgive you of it Jesus Christ will do the very thing that he died to do for you today We can make this your birthday spiritually if you’ll trust Christ and believe him Consider in your heart today where you’re going to spend eternity If you’re not ready right now, read If you know right now that Jesus is not your Savior and you have never bowed to Christ, then you need to come, obey God, believe Him, trust Him, and call upon Him If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his You cannot claim to be going to heaven today unless you have the Holy Spirit living in you, that Jesus Christ is your Lord, that you have made Him your Savior You’ve received Christ as your own and you know that God is your Father today These three are one You cannot separate them but to distinguish the power of their work in all of our lives

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In this Bible Story, John has been exiled after being dipped in a vat of boiling oil. As he sits on the shores of Patmos, God comes to him in a vision. John writes in poetry and metaphor to describe his vision of God’s throne room. We are taken up with John, beholding God’s majesty and glory. This story is inspired by Revelation. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Revelation 4:2 from the King James Version.Episode 242: The Apostle John, now exiled on the island of Patmos, became startled as he heard a powerful voice behind him. The voice told him to write down what he was about to see. He turned around to see who was speaking to him and saw that it was the risen Jesus. His appearance was full of majesty as He gave John a message for each of the seven churches. But the vision did not end there, John was then called up into the throne room of God where he saw it filled with the beauty and majesty only God can bring. Beautiful colors, many thrones, and massive living creatures which all shouted the praises of God Most High, and the Lamb that was slain now lives!Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Apostle John in his first letter writes some intriguing words, "Beloved, I am writing you no new commandment, but an old commandment that you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word that you have heard. At the same time, it is a new commandment that I am writing to you, which is true in him and in you." The old commandment he is referring to is the "Shema," the confession of faith in the one true God to whom we owe full allegiance and devotion. In answer to a scribe's question in Mark 12:28-33 as to what is the greatest commandment, Jesus answers, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. He also relates the second greatest commandment: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (This latter commandment is a phrase attached to a list of various laws in Leviticus 19.) The new component is Jesus' own love for his disciples. He loves us so much that he laid down his life for us on the cross. John 13:1-5, 34f records John's own experience of the love of Jesus shown by his washing their feet. In this context he gives the new commandment, "A new command I give you: Love one another as I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

The Apostle John called himself, “The disciple whom Jesus loved.” Find out what he had to say about the birth of Jesus, in Pastor Colin's first-person narrative message from John.

The Apostle John writes a deeply personal pastoral letter to his spiritual children in Ephesus. He is concerned about the spiritual dangers they are facing both from within and without related to false doctrine and ungodly secular antichrist pressure. He wants to protect and enhance their fellowship with the Father through Jesus Christ. His letter points to several signs or markers to distinguish true from false believers. In verses 12-14 of 1 John the apostle inserts a pause to particularly address the little children, the fathers and the young men in 6 parallel statements. The "little children" designation is used throughout his letter to indicate that they are beloved in the Lord by him. But it can also accent the reality of the first great awareness of newborn Christians. They rejoice in the forgiveness of their sins through Jesus' death and their relationship to God as Father. John then addresses two groups he calls fathers and young men. The fathers seem to refer to mature believers who know the true identity of Jesus Christ as the incarnate Word who has always been with the Father and through whom we know the Father. However, John writes the most to the young men. They are strong, have overcome the evil one. He gives the reason because the word of God abides in them. This middle group bears the brunt of the spiritual battle in which the church is engaged. Although John singles out these particular groups the spiritual realties noted belong to all believers. It appears that John wants to encourage and assure the believers that they do belong to God in Christ.

1 John 4:13–21 explores the Apostle John's astonishing claim that God Himself lives in His people—a miracle that fuels our assurance and empowers us to love others. John teaches that the Holy Spirit is the undeniable proof of our salvation, and that if God truly lives in us, His love must flow through us, shaping how we treat the people we encounter every day.

1 John 4:13–21 explores the Apostle John's astonishing claim that God Himself lives in His people—a miracle that fuels our assurance and empowers us to love others. John teaches that the Holy Spirit is the undeniable proof of our salvation, and that if God truly lives in us, His love must flow through us, shaping how we treat the people we encounter every day.

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

Send us a textThe main idea that drives the Apostle John's first letter  is fellowship with God. He makes this clear when he starts his letter. "What we have seen and heard we also declare to you, so that you may also have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 1 John 1:3 He then addresses the need for knowing the truth about God as light and the truth about our sin as a necessity for true fellowship to exist. He presents 3 false ideas that some have. If we assert the believes that sin is a non entity or that humans do not have a sinful nature or that we have not actually sinned we are not speaking according to truth. We lie about the reality of sin and human nature and actually call God himself a liar!With repentance that is a change in our mind about our sin and God the holy righteous One who has acted on our behalf we can know fellowship with God through Jesus atoning death. John presents Jesus work as the corrective for these false beliefs.  " If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. v9 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. v7John is a realist and says, My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 1 John 2:2At the letter's conclusion John writes, I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. 1 John 5:13Bible Insights with Wayne ConradContact: 8441 Hunnicut Rd Dallas, Texas 75228email: Att. Bible Insights Wayne Conradgsccdallas@gmail.com (Good Shepherd Church) Donation https://gsccdallas.orghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJTZX6qasIrPmC1wQpben9ghttps://www.facebook.com/waconrad or gscchttps://www.sermonaudio.com/gsccSpirit, Truth and Grace MinistriesPhone # 214-324-9915 leave message with number for call backPsalms 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

Jesus Asks: “But who do you say that I am?” and Jesus Answers: “you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you” MESSAGE SUMMARY: In Mark 8:29, Jesus asked His Disciples the question He asks you: “And he asked them, ‘But who do you say that I am?' Peter answered him, ‘You are the Christ {Messiah}.'". As Paul writes in Ephesians 4:1-6: “There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift.”.  God IS Father, IS Son, and He IS Holy Spirit. Jesus told the crowd in the Temple; and He tells us, as it is recorded for us now by the Apostle John, in John 10:25,30: “Jesus answered them, ‘I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father's name bear witness about me . . . I and the Father are one.'”. Also, Jesus provides more insights to your Trinitarian relationship with God in John 14:18-20: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.".  God is one God, but He is in three natures: God is Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Therefore, when you pray, you are praying to one triune being – God, the Creator of the Universe.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, help me to grab hold of you today. I need you. Set me free to begin reorienting my life around you, and you alone. Help me to pay attention to and honor how you have uniquely made me. Thank you for the gift of rest. In Jesus' name, amen.       Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 122). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Loneliness. Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Presence. “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): Ephesians 4:1-8; John 10:24-30; Mark 1:9-11; Psalms 139a:1-12. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Thanks-Living”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good practice—it’s a Christ-shaped way of living. Colossians 2:6–7 reminds us that thankful hearts grow strong roots, and Jesus’ life shows us exactly what that looks like. From praising the Father in unexpected moments to giving thanks over a meal that seemed far too small, Jesus modeled a rhythm of gratitude that was thoughtful, generous, and deeply intentional. His example invites us to slow down and notice the countless opportunities we have each day to respond with thanksgiving. Highlights Jesus expressed gratitude with insight—recognizing God’s work even when others overlooked it (Matthew 11:25). He gave thanks generously, blessing God for resources that seemed insignificant and sharing them freely (John 6:11). His gratitude fueled goodness toward others, shaping a life of compassion and service (Luke 6:31; Acts 10:38). Jesus demonstrated thankfulness in everything, from daily provision to His final moments before the cross (Ephesians 5:20; Matthew 26:27). His ultimate act of gratitude came through sacrifice—offering His body and blood for our salvation (Luke 22:19). A thankful life reflects the heart of Christ and keeps us rooted in God’s faithfulness. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: What Jesus Modeled about Gratitude By Lynette Kittle Bible Reading: “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” - Colossians 2:6-7 How many times do we miss opportunities to express gratitude to God? Most likely, for some of us, there are too many for us to count. So, when it comes to learning how to show gratitude, especially to God, where do we look for a mentor? Of course, Jesus tops the list in demonstrating it to us, being perfect in all His ways and actions. After all, He is the Savior of the world, along with being fully man and fully God, understanding both how we as humans think, feel, and respond in earthly situations and also how God views and receives gratitude. How Jesus Modeled Gratitude In looking at Jesus’ life on earth, we discover ways He modeled gratitude, along with how we can follow His example. The following are five ways we can model gratitude to God and those around us, as Christ did on earth. Jesus modeled insightful gratitude. Often, individuals, some Christians included, may miss opportunities to express gratitude, missing the insightfulness Jesus demonstrated in all He did on earth. Matthew 11:25 reveals how Jesus recognized an opportunity to show gratitude to God for revealing to children what is hidden from the intellectual and educated individuals on earth. “At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.’” It was an observance and revelation of sorts, yet Jesus took the time, place, and opportunity to publicly express gratitude to God. Jesus modeled generous gratitude. When it came to expressing gratitude to God, Jesus didn’t skip over it, even when it involved a hungry crowd. The Apostle John describes in John 6:11 where, “Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.” Some may feel like five barley loaves and two fish were hardly worth showing gratitude to God, such a seemingly small amount, more like a snack. As well, to share what seemed like an insignificant amount of food so generously, letting people have as much as they wanted. If most of us were sharing it, we probably would have tried to limit it to each person, knowing we started with a small amount. Jesus modeled do-gooder gratitude. Gratitude to God flows through us, encouraging us to express the gratitude we have to God and to others. Jesus says in Luke 6:31, “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Acts 10:38 describes how He accomplished it, “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how He went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with Him.” Jesus modeled thankfulness in everything. Some may laugh at those of us who are continually thanking God for what seem like little things in life, but doing so helps our hearts to remain thankful throughout our days. As Ephesians 5:20 urges, “Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” From sharing a small lunch to sharing the truth about God’s love, Jesus expressed gratitude for all that He had, including laying down His life for us, expressing a heart of gratitude to God His Father. Even when His life on earth was about to end, He modeled it in Matthew 26:27, “Then He took a cup, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you.’” Jesus modeled gratitude through sacrifice. He didn’t hold anything back from us, including the life we receive from His body being broken and blood poured out for our Salvation, as demonstrated in Luke 22:19: “And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” Intersecting Faith & Life: As words to the old hymn go, with hearts full of gratitude, we can sing and thank God for Jesus’ sacrifice. “Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul. Thank you, Lord, for making me whole. Thank you, Lord, for giving to me, Thy great Salvation so rich and free.” Further Reading: 4 Ways Gratitude Can Change Your MindsetMaking Do-Gooding A Way of Life Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Was the Apostle John raptured up to Heaven? Find out with hosts Tim Moore and Nathan Jones on the television program Christ in Prophecy!

God Became Human to Enable Jesus Followers to Have a Personal Relationship with Him through His Grace and Gift of the Holy Spirit MESSAGE SUMMARY: As Jesus tells us in John 15:12-14, that you, as His follower, are His “friend: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends.". God became flesh, and He dwelt among us. God became human to draw you into a personal relationship with Him. In John 1:14, the Apostle John identifies Jesus as the “Son of the Father”: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.". God alone can satisfy the meaning and purpose of your life. God alone can satisfy your hunger to know your life's meaning. Most importantly, God alone can give you forgiveness of your sins as Paul tells us in Colossians 2:13-14: “And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.". Jesus' life, miracles, death, and His resurrection are invitations to a life-long personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe. Our personal relationship with God is through His gift, to followers of Jesus, of the Holy Spirit.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Surely it is God who saves me. I will trust in Him and not be afraid. For the Lord is my stronghold and my defense, and He is my savior. Therefore, you shall draw water with rejoicing from the springs of salvation. And on that day, you shall say, “Give thanks to the Lord and call upon His Name; make His deeds known among the peoples; see that they remember that His Name is exalted.”. Amen. 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): Hebrews 1:3; Hebrews 1:10-13; Colossians 2:10-15; Psalms137:1-9. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “My Grace is Sufficient” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Send us a textThe Christian message and life begins not with man, humanity, but with the being of God himself. In fact the Apostle John begins with the One who was in the beginning and with whom he had had physical emotional connection. He is writing about the incarnation of the Word in the person of Jesus the Christ. John's letter to the churches begins at the same place as the Gospel of John! Compare 1 John 1:1-5 with John 1:1-4. He writes of the Word, Life and light. In his letter he adds the eternal life and fellowship with the Father and his Son Jesus Christ. His climatic statement is- God is Light! At the conclusion of his letter he summarizes in these words, "And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we may know the true one. We are in the true one—that is, in his Son, Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life." 1 John 5:20 CSVIf we are to understand the gospel, and the Christian life correctly then we must begin at the right place. We must begin with God, the God who is Father and Son, Jesus Christ- the true God who is the Holy, the Light!Bible Insights with Wayne ConradContact: 8441 Hunnicut Rd Dallas, Texas 75228email: Att. Bible Insights Wayne Conradgsccdallas@gmail.com (Good Shepherd Church) Donation https://gsccdallas.orghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJTZX6qasIrPmC1wQpben9ghttps://www.facebook.com/waconrad or gscchttps://www.sermonaudio.com/gsccSpirit, Truth and Grace MinistriesPhone # 214-324-9915 leave message with number for call backPsalms 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

Join Pastor Cameron as he continues to look at the topic of healing, through the words of the Apostle John. No matter what is ailing you, there is healing through Christ!

Welcome to our Reveal podcast,Today, we're tackling one of the most dramatic images in the Book of Revelation  The Dragon and The Beast.In Revelation 12 and 13, the Apostle John describes a dragon and a beast rising out of the sea terrifying, powerful figures that symbolize satanic rebellion and worldly deception.The dragon is clearly identified in Revelation 12:9 as Satan himself  “that ancient serpent called the devil.” He is the spiritual power behind all evil, seeking to oppose God's plan and destroy His people.Then comes the beast from the sea, representing earthly empires or leaders empowered by the dragon a picture of political and spiritual systems that demand worship and allegiance apart from God. This beast mirrors the dragon's authority, imitating divine power but using it to deceive and persecute.Together, the dragon and the beast form a kind of unholy trinity, a counterfeit of God's truth. While the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit bring life and salvation, the dragon, the beast, and later the false prophet bring deception, control, and destruction.But here's the hope their reign is temporary. Revelation 19 shows Jesus returning in glory, destroying the beast, and binding the dragon. Evil may roar for a season, but Christ's victory is eternal.To support this ministry and help us continue our God-given mission, click here:Subscribe to our channel for the latest sermons:https://www.youtube.com/@revealvineyardLearn more about Vineyard Church Reveal Campus:https://www.revealvineyard.com/Follow us on social media!Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/vineyardrevealcampus Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/RevealVineyard