Early Christian apostle and missionary (c. AD 5 - c. AD 64/67)
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When Ron Blue joins us, it's always a masterclass in biblical wisdom. He's co-founder of Kingdom Advisors, a best-selling author, and a trusted mentor to many. Ron has spent decades helping believers apply God's principles to every area of life and business.Today, Ron unpacks what Scripture teaches about partnerships and how faith should shape the way we enter, manage, and exit them.The Broader Meaning of “Partnership”When the Apostle Paul warned believers about being “unequally yoked,” he wasn't speaking only about marriage. As Ron explains, “Paul was talking about partnerships—and there are so many kinds.”From professional firms and small businesses to investment ventures and partnerships, they can take many forms. And while they can be incredibly fruitful, they also carry spiritual and relational risks.Ron pointed out that partnerships often last a long time—sometimes decades. “The CPA firm I founded has been operating as a partnership for 50 years,” he said. “But not all partnerships endure well. Like marriage, many end in conflict.”Principle #1: Protect Your TestimonyRon's first principle is about spiritual integrity. “You have to ask what the partnership will do to your testimony,” he said. “If you're unequally yoked with someone whose values fundamentally differ from yours, you could lose your witness in the process.”He recalled being asked whether a Christian OB-GYN should enter a business partnership with a doctor who supports abortion. “Only you and God can answer that,” he said, “but it's a big question. Your witness is always at stake.”Principle #2: Plan Your Exit Before You Begin“Have your exit strategy in place before you form the partnership,” Ron advises.Just as couples prepare for challenges in marriage, business partners should anticipate potential separation. A clear exit plan protects both parties, ensures fairness, and helps maintain peace when the time comes to move on.“When you have that in place,” Ron said, “you avoid a lot of conflict and preserve your testimony if you're the believer who's leaving.”Principle #3: Preserve the Mission Beyond the RelationshipPerhaps the most powerful insight Ron shared was this: the mission must outlive the partnership.Ron recalled his own experience leading a financial planning firm. “After 23 years, I left—but no one left with me,” he said. “They were committed to the mission. That's what you want to see happen.”A strong exit strategy and shared vision help ensure that the work—and the witness—continue long after any individual departs.The Bottom LineShared faith isn't just good for business—it's essential for a lasting witness. Partnerships grounded in biblical principles reflect God's wisdom and preserve peace amid challenges.As Ron put it, “The most critical thing you want to preserve is your testimony. Everything else flows from that.”On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm concerned about vendors and service providers who want my bank account information for automatic withdrawals. I've been paying my lawn service with money orders, but now they require my account number. I told them we'd have to stop doing business because I'm not comfortable giving out that information. Isn't this kind of intrusive? What do you think about vendors wanting access to our accounts?My spouse and I are both 70 and ready to retire. I own 10 rental houses, but managing them has become too much. Once I sell the properties, what should I do with the proceeds? I understand the basics about capital gains and selling real estate, but I don't want the responsibility of managing individual stock investments myself.I've saved about $15,000 for a car, but have kept my current vehicle running as long as possible. It's a 2007 with 235,000 miles and is starting to have more issues. I found a good used car for about $8,500 and am wondering if I should buy it now or keep driving my current one until it dies, even though repairs may be on the horizon.My parents' health is declining, and we're moving them closer to family. Their current home is in an irrevocable trust, but we've found a condo they can buy before selling that house. Can the new condo be added to the same irrevocable trust? And when the old home sells, what happens to the proceeds?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This is Peter writing to church leaders about the kind of heart and attitude they should have in order to serve a local church. The two New Testament epistles ascribed to the Apostle Peter are lesser known by most Christians than the Epistles of the Apostle Paul. Some scholars believe that First Peter may have been written to young Christians and may have even served as a 'catechism' for those about to be water baptised. In this episode, we look at how Peter presents God as Father, Son, and Spirit, and how Christianity commences with becoming 'born again'. But this is not where Christianity ends - and that aged Apostle Peter gives instructions on how a new believer is to grow in the faith by exploring what the knowledge of God and HIs grace requires.
The sermon opens with a profound exploration of identity and spiritual transformation, centered on the Apostle Paul's self-description as a 'doulos'—a bound servant of Jesus Christ—highlighting the radical surrender required of every believer. It emphasizes that true discipleship involves a complete submission of one's will to Christ, mirroring the disciplined obedience of a soldier in boot camp, and contrasts this with the enslavement to sin from which Christ delivers us through His death and resurrection. The message underscores the theological significance of Christ's name—Jesus, meaning 'Jehovah saves,' and Christ, meaning 'the Anointed One'—revealing His divine nature and redemptive mission. It defines the Christian as a 'saint,' not by achievement but by divine separation from sin and dedication to God, rooted in the new birth and sustained by faith in Christ. The sermon calls listeners to a life of responsive obedience, where the Word of God functions as both a lamp to guide and a light to illuminate the path, urging believers to live in the reality of their new identity in Christ.
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4 Life is a significant journey, often likened to the process of creating a diamond — a remarkable gem that emerges from carbon under great pressure and heat. Just as a diamond's beauty is revealed through rigorous conditions, our true potential often surfaces through the experiences we encounter daily. Embrace this view: your strength and character are refined during difficult moments, leading you to shine brighter. Consider the words in James 1:2-4, which remind us to “count it all joy” in the face of various experiences. It's as if through each moment, we're being chiseled into our best selves, shaping us not just for survival but for greatness. Just as the Apostle Paul and Silas sang praises in prison, we can find joy in our ability to rise above life's circumstances and nurture our spirits. Romans 5:3-4 says, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." Remember, "Trials may bruise us, but they also teach our steps; endurance is the quiet muscle that lifts our eyes to hope." Imagine a tree that withstands winds, growing stronger with each gust. The same principle applies to our faith, which deepens as we trust in God's presence, reminiscent of the wise words of Robert Schuller: “Joy is not the absence of suffering; it is the presence of God.” Through every experience, we cultivate resilience and a stronger belief in ourselves and our purpose. When we focus on nurturing our faith, we can see how the bonds we create with God and others act as lifelines, like threads in a tapestry intricately woven together to reveal a more beautiful picture. Jean de La Bruyère aptly noted that "out of difficulties grow miracles," emphasizing that our greatest transformations often emerge when we lean into our spiritual growth. Amen. 1 Peter 1:6-7 says, "In all this, you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." Prayer for the Day!Heavenly Father, in moments of reflection, may we recognize the beauty that arises from our experiences. Help us to embrace our journeys with open hearts, trusting that You are shaping us for a purpose greater than ourselves. May Your presence fill us with joy and hope, guiding us always toward the light. In Jesus' name. Amen.
One of Charlie's final church appearances as at Freedom Night in America with Nathan Finochio, founder of TheosU and author of Killer Church. Charlie and Nathan dive into pastors who love "hippie Jesus" but hate the Apostle Paul, why every ideology wants to claim Jesus for its own, the danger of Islam to the West, and more. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join Jerry as he starts the book of Galatians, a powerful book written by the Apostle Paul in which he emphasizes the essential truths about the grace of God and our liberty in Christ Jesus. Every day Jerry walks us through a chapter of the New Testament, and gives us some amazing insights and applications. Grab your Bible and great ready for Galatians 1, and join us daily as you take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann. ------- Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/ « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/
Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.
Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.
Romans is the Apostle Paul's fullest and clearest treatise on the gospel of Jesus Christ. Throughout history, this letter has opened eyes, awakened hearts, and set movements in motion. It's both profoundly theological and deeply personal, revealing the truth about God, humanity, and salvation. John Stott rightly called Romans a manifesto of freedom in Christ - a freedom that remakes our lives, forms us into God's people, and sends us as witnesses of Jesus in the world.
2 Corinthians 10-11
One of Charlie's final church appearances as at Freedom Night in America with Nathan Finochio, founder of TheosU and author of Killer Church. Charlie and Nathan dive into pastors who love "hippie Jesus" but hate the Apostle Paul, why every ideology wants to claim Jesus for its own, the danger of Islam to the West, and more. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this sermon, Pastor Tyler reflects on the incredible generosity and joy evident within the community. Sharing stories of transformation and commitment, he emphasizes the theme of choosing joy in the face of life's challenges, drawing inspiration from the Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians. Tyler explores the concept of joyful partnership in the gospel, urging the congregation to see their role not as members of a church, but as active partners invested in its mission. He discusses the biblical significance of tithing and financial generosity, encouraging the community to trust God and prioritize giving as an act of worship. Through this message, Tyler calls the church to embrace a holistic, spirit-filled approach to life, rooted in generosity and contentment in Christ. Join us as we delve into the heart of joyful giving and explore how each of us can participate in the transformative work God is doing in our community.
The Apostle Paul said humans invent new forms of evil. That's what happened at Babel.
The post Így szól az Úr Isten, Szíverősítő, Lélekemelő, Inspiration for Heart and Soul, Biblia, Magyar, Igehirdetés, Bible, Ezekiel 28: 15 – 19, Matthew 21: 12-14, Luke 13: 23-24, the testimonies of the Apostle Paul from Acts 22, 23, 24, and 26, Psalms 46 & 130 Reformation: Hungarian Evangelical 11-02-25 appeared first on WWDB-AM.
Pastor Chris this Sunday goes past the first verse and now dives in to the first 3 chapters of Ephesians! He examines the artistic literary style of the Apostle Paul, and shows its mirror like style which bounces off similar ideas culminating in to one singular point. This Sunday we see the importance of praising the Lord, praying to him, and remembering our fallen spiritual condition requiring his salvation. Praise God for saving us not because we deserved it but because he loved us and let that love/grace carry over in to all our relationships.
God's heart is to make His home in us and to fill us with His joy and His peace and His grace and His power, and I believe that with every fibre of my being. In fact, I know it. And the other thing I know is that He wants to do that for you. Today. Right now. We're All Different It is fantastic to be with you again this week on Christianityworks. You know the process of boy meets girl has always fascinated me. Before I met my wonderful wife Jacqui, somebody encouraged me to go out on a blind date with a woman and the moment I knocked on her door and she opened the door, I took one look at her and in the instant, I knew there would be no relationship there - I just knew! And yet the very first time I laid eyes on Jacqui, I just knew that she would be my wife. How does that work? What is that chemistry all about? How does chemistry and attraction turn into love and commitment and lifelong companionship? I don't know, I really don't know. I guess for one person there are many potential spouses and only a handful of real candidates, and sometimes one or sometimes none that people meet. It's really a mystery, isn't it? how a boy and a girl meet and become husband and wife and share a life together for the whole of their lives. The same is true with friends – you can pick your friends but you can't pick your relatives. And I guess that saying acknowledges this reality, that sometimes there are people with whom we have chemistry and we have relationship and yet other people – they may be similar to us, they may have the same interests – but there is just no potential there for relationship, because somehow you just don't click. You know what I'm talking about. Well it that's true of people – if there is kind of a custom fit between people for having relationships what about our relationship with God? There is one God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit, three persons in one God - an amazing mystery of God in three persons. But what about our compatibility with God? We are all different – some of us know things in our heads; some of us know things more in our hearts; some of us are right-brained people, some of us are left brained people; some people are loud and noisy, other people are quiet and deep. For some people experience is the most important way of knowing something but for others, they just know that they know that they know that they know that they know. Whatever it is – wherever each one of us is in terms of faith – let's just make a couple of assumptions: firstly, that God is God and secondly that it was His idea to make us all so incredibly different. So, if that's the case, how is it that God deals with that reality in establishing and developing a personal relationship with each one of us? That's what we are going to visit today on the programme. We are in the third programme of a four-week series called "The Holy Spirit and Me". The last few weeks we have been looking at the subject of walking in the Spirit. Two weeks ago we began looking at Jesus' promise of the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised – if you want to read it it's in John chapter 14 – He promised another Counsellor; another Advocate "just like Me". So Jesus did His public ministry for three and a half years and just before He went to the cross He promised His disciples: I won't leave you as orphans. I'll come again. I'll be with you through My Holy Spirit, My Father and I will come and make our homes with you. And then He died on the cross, He rose again, He ascended into Heaven and not long after…and that's what we are going to look at today, in the Book of Acts. If you have a Bible, grab it; open it at Acts because that's where we are going today. Not long after He poured His Holy Spirit out on His disciples – the Holy Spirit of grace; the Holy Spirit of power; the Holy Spirit of God in us with a relationship that we just can't put into words. And last week on the programme we looked at one of the significant implications of having the Holy Spirit present in us, in that the Spirit who is Holy deals with our sin and that means change; that means repenting; that means ditching that rubbish in our lives. It may not be popular but the Holy Spirit gives us the power to change. But how does the Holy Spirit deal with each one of us who are so different? And this week we are going to look at how God strikes up a relationship with us. We are all so different – God is God – God doesn't change, so how does He do it? How does He customise or tailor His approach or is it one size fits all? Is there some kind of standard approach that is the same for each one of us? How do I know I have the Holy Spirit? It's amazing in the church, that the Holy Spirit is a source of great division – people's understanding of the person of the Holy Spirit – one of the three persons in the Godhead, brings a whole bunch of misunderstanding. And we are just going to open the Bible today very simply and very plainly and just read what God says about God, the Holy Spirit. I was sitting having dinner the other night with a really good friend of mine and this man is very well-known in ministry in Australia and around the world – God has used him to do some amazing things. And you would have to say he is a high-profile sort of person – I won't use his name because we were having a private dinner together. But we were talking about how God deals with each one of us and I was saying. "Well, I love getting up in the morning early and spending forty-five minutes or an hour with God because God speaks to me." You know, I find out what God is doing. "God what are You up to today?" And God gives me guidance as I do that – as I read His Word, as I listen to Him, as I pray. God just impresses on me what He wants me to do. And this friend of mine – and people look at him from a distance; they see him on television, they hear him on radio, they read his biography and they look at this man and they say, "WOW, here's this super-spiritual man that God has used powerfully," and he said to me, "It doesn't work like that for me." He said, "You know, I go to God and ask Him, 'What do you want me to do, God?'" And God says to me, "I have already given you a job, go and do it." You think, "Well, it doesn't sound very spiritual", but on the other hand "the proof of the pudding is in the eating". I mean, look at the fruit in this man's life and God has clearly used him amazingly. God knows each one of us. He knows exactly what you are like. He knows exactly how to connect with you, just as He does to connect with me. So over the next twenty minutes or so we are going to spend some time looking at three different examples of how God connected with people, with the aim of getting the sense that God knows how different each one of us are. We will look at that when we come back. A Personal Relationship What I said earlier, that the person of the Holy Spirit is one of the greatest sources of division in the Christian church right now and it is true. On the one hand it's very clear from the Bible that everyone who believes in Jesus has the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul writes in Romans chapter 8, verse 9: Anyone one who does not have the Spirit of Christ doesn't belong to Him. And again in Ephesians chapter 1 and elsewhere, Paul writes along these lines – he says: In Him, in Jesus also, when you had heard the word of truth; the Good News; the Gospel of your salvation and you believed in Him, you were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit. This is the pledge of our inheritance towards redemption as God's own people to the praise of His glory. So in other words, any person that has believed in their heart that Jesus is their personal Saviour has received the Holy Spirit; the promised Holy Spirit; the Spirit that Jesus promised in John chapter 14. Another comforter; another one just like Me, is what He said about the Holy Spirit. But, it's also true by observation that this Holy Spirit makes a difference in some people and not in others. Jesus said: You will know a tree by its fruit. Good trees have good fruit and bad trees have bad fruit. I don't know where you are on your journey – I have a bit of a sense where I am on my journey but we are all on a journey. If we are walking with Jesus, if we have accepted Him and said, "Lord, I want You to be my Saviour, I believe that You died for me on the cross" – if we are with Jesus then somewhere in our lives, Jesus is making changes – we are on a journey. And I know that today I make fewer mistakes that I did five years ago and my prayer is that as I grow in God's Word and in my relationship with Him and through the presence of the Spirit in me, I pray in another five years I will be able to look back and say exactly the same thing. But there are some people who say, "I believe in Jesus" and you look at their lives and you think 'I can't see any fruit.' There is that wonderful story in Luke's Gospel of Jesus going to His friend's grave – Lazarus. Lazarus had died; he had been dead for a few days and when Jesus got to his grave, He said" Roll the stone away. And they said: You don't understand he has been dead for a few days, he is going to smell And Jesus said: Roll the stone away. And when they did that He said: Lazarus, come out. And Lazarus got up from the dead and walked out but he was bound up in grave-clothes. Now under those grave-clothes there was red in his cheek – the Master had spoken life into Lazarus's dead body. But Lazarus was still bound up in the grave-clothes. You know, you can't do much for God; you can't serve other people when you are bound up in grave-clothes. And to tell you the truth, I know plenty of Christians that look just like Lazarus when he came out of the tomb. Yes, the Master has spoken life into them – yes, they have eternal life but they are still bound up in the grave-clothes of the past. Jesus said, "I came to set you free," and I believe that the Holy Spirit – in fact the Bible tells us the Holy Spirit has so much to do with setting us free. Some people believe that you become a Christian, you receive the Holy Spirit and that's it! That's one side of the argument. Other people believe, "Well, no, there is a second blessing. You know, sure you receive the seal of the Holy Spirit – you receive the Spirit when you become a Christian but you have got to be baptised in the Spirit." There is a significant experiential event of power, of gifts, of tongues and prophets and all those other things that happen after the event. And I know well-intentioned Christians of both sides of that argument – in both camps – who argue their cases strongly and passionately and believe that the other party is just plain wrong. Why is this important? Because it goes to the question 'How do I know if I'm filled with the Spirit? How do I know if I'm walking in the Spirit? Because I don't know about you, but I'm passionate – I want all that God has for me – all of Him, all of His presence, all of His blessing, all that I can do with God, I want everything that God has for me. How incredibly sad to believe in the cross; to believe in Jesus and then to walk the rest of our lives as though nothing happened? Come on, do you want everything that God has for you? Because I tell you, God has an abundant blessing and over flowing blessing of grace and mercy and joy and peace for each person who puts their faith in Jesus. And to understand how God approaches this, we are going to look at three very distinct; very different approaches in the Bible in the Book of Acts. The first one happens at Pentecost – let's read it very quickly. Acts chapter 1, verses 4 and 5. While staying with them, Jesus (this is after the resurrection and before He ascends), this is what it says: While staying with them Jesus ordered them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait there for the promise of the Father. This, He said, is what you have heard from Me for John baptised with water but you will be baptised with the Holy Spirit not many days from now. And then in Acts chapter 2, this is what happens: When the day of Pentecost came they were all together in one place and suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind and it filled the entire house where they were sitting and divided tongues as of fire appeared among them and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages as the Spirit gave them ability. One thing is clear – God poured His Spirit out on these men and women in the most amazing way. And you read on in Acts chapter 2, 3 and 4 – Peter gets up and addresses the crowd and gives the most powerful message – God filled them with His Spirit and His power. What does it show about God? He does special things - things that we don't always understand; things that don't always make sense to us. He did them then, He does them today – He does amazing things. And yet He does different things too. We are going to look at two different instances of how God poured His Spirit out on people next. We Can't Put God in a Box We are looking on the programme today how God touches people differently with His Holy Spirit. We have just looked at the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit was poured out on to the disciples with rushing wind and flames of fire – really unusual and amazing and maybe you and I wouldn't have done it that way, but God did. Have a look at this one though; this is another really interesting one. We are going to Acts chapter 19 – if you have a Bible, go there because God does things differently. Have a listen, this is in Ephesus: While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul the Apostle, passed through the interior regions and came to Ephesus where he found some disciples. He said to them "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?" and they replied "No, we don't even know that there is a Holy Spirit." Then he said "Into what were you baptised?" and they answered "Into John's baptism." And Paul said "John baptised with a baptism of repentance, telling people to believe in the One who was coming after him, that is in Jesus." On hearing this, they were baptised in the name of Jesus and then Paul laid hands on them and the Holy Spirit came upon them and they spoke in tongues and they prophesied and all together there were about twelve of them. See, some people argue so strongly, "Well, you receive the Holy Spirit; it is a one-off thing when you become a believer", as we saw before in the Book of Romans chapter 8 – when you become a believer you receive the Holy Spirit and that's it! That may be how God works with some people but it's not how He worked in Ephesus. In Ephesus, I'm sure that when these people believed in Jesus, they put their hearts into Him, they received the Holy Spirit but they had to be taught about the Holy Spirit. They didn't know that the Holy Spirit existed and when Paul told them about it; when Paul laid his hands on them, they received the Spirit in power and they prophesied and they prayed in tongues. There was a second experience for them. Don't you love how God does things differently? And the third one that I would like to look at is Cornelius and his family. Let's go to Acts chapter 10 if you have a Bible because Cornelius received the Holy Spirit in a different way. In Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of the Italian cohort as it was called. He was a devout man who feared God with all his household and he gave generously to the poor and prayed constantly to God. One afternoon about three o'clock, he had a vision in which he clearly saw an angel coming and said to him "Cornelius!" He stared at the angel in terror "What is it Lord?" "Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial before God." And so the angel told Cornelius to send some men to Peter to get Peter the Apostle to come and tell them about Jesus, which happened. And while Peter was still talking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the Word. So the example we looked at before, in Ephesus, those people had believed – we don't know for how long – but they received the Holy Spirit after they believed. Here Cornelius and his family were still listening to the message of the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit fell upon them there. See, how silly it is to have these arguments about "Well, you know, you only receive the Holy Spirit when you first believe," or "You have to receive the Holy Spirit as a second blessing." There are two examples where God did it differently and the one at Pentecost before, these people had walked with Jesus – they had spent three and a half years with Him, some of them, in the best Bible school you will ever come across – the Bible school of Jesus Christ. And God dealt with each of them differently. I remember, I received the Holy Spirit the way Cornelius did. I remember when I gave my life to Jesus Christ that day, I know that I know that I know that I know that I know that I was filled with the Holy Spirit and it's never changed for me. That joy and that peace has never left me; the courage to keep going has never left me, even through the dark times; even through the painful times; even when I felt like I was walking alone, I knew in my spirit and my heart that my God was carrying me. And that comes from the Holy Spirit. What about you? Have you been filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit - God's presence in you? You know that joy, that peace, that thing that happens when you all of a sudden get a revelation in your spirit and in your soul, that Jesus Christ is Lord. Do you walk around every day in that knowledge that you are filled with the Holy Spirit? That the Holy Spirit is just overflowing out of you? Someone is listening there going "I have never experienced that, I have never tasted that, I want that," well I am going to pray for you right now. Father, I pray for each person who is listening right now. We are together in Your Spirit in Your Kingdom. I pray for each soul who is hungering for Your presence. I pray each person who is aching to receive Your Holy Spirit and I pray in the name of Jesus Christ that You would pour Your Spirit out on them, right here and right now. That You would fill them with the Holy Spirit, not just today but tomorrow and the next day and the next day and the next, every day between now and when each one of us stands before You in glory. I pray that You would pour Your Spirit out on us in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Well, I know that if you prayed that prayer with me, I know that if your soul is dry and thirsty and hungry and poor and empty and just yearning to be filled with God, I know that God will honour that prayer and when we accept God for who He is, to let Him do just what He wants in our lives, just how He wants to do it in our lives, that is the most awesome and wonderful and amazing thing. Whether we are a Cornelius and we received the Spirit and were filled to overflowing when we first heard the message or whether we are someone who has been walking for twenty or thirty years and never been filled with the Holy Spirit – it doesn't matter – God shows up for each one of us because if we put our faith in Jesus Christ, His heart is to make His home in us and to fill us with His joy and His peace and His grace and His power and I believe that with every fibre of my being I have seen it in other people's lives – I have seen it in my life and I am believing for your life too. God is no man's debtor – God has no favourites – God wants to pour His glory out in your life, in my life, in everybody's life, who puts their faith in Jesus Christ. Let's come back to the question – does God have a standard way or does He customise His approach? Look at Pentecost – look at Ephesus – look at Cornelius, look at my life – look at your life. God will meet you in your place, in your life, in your need, just the way you are. I believe that and I am praying for that, for you, in Jesus Christ's name.
“The judgment seat of Christ” can fill Christians with a great amount of trepidation and fear. The thought of standing before Him to give an account of one's life quickly brings to mind all of the failures along the way. However, is this how Christ wants His people to think? This sermon will explore the Apostle Paul's message to the Corinthians on how we can not only remove fear from this judgment scene, but also eagerly anticipate its arrival. A sermon given by Greg Chandler on November 9, 2025.
The Apostle Paul gives the Hebrew Christians warnings and encouragements in order that they would not apostatise and make shipwreck of their faith.
November 17, 2025 Daily Devotional: “The Divine Exchange” 2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. The Apostle Paul had a profound, painful affliction he called a "thorn in the flesh." He begged the Lord three times to take it away. His expected answer was a miracle—a removal of the pain, a swift relief. Instead, God gave him a revolutionary truth: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." This is a counter-cultural truth. Our world values strength, competence, and self-sufficiency. We are taught to hide our struggles, mask our inadequacies, and be strong. But God's economy is different. He doesn't promise to make us strongin ourselves; He promises to be strong through us. When we are weak—when we've run out of our own resources, when our limitations are painfully clear, when we face a situation we simply cannot handle—that is the very platform where Christ's all-surpassing power shines brightest. Our empty hands are the perfect space for His fullness. Our weakness is not a liability; it is an opportunity for the power of Christ to visibly rest upon us. Where are you struggling today? Is it an emotional battle, a financial pressure, a relational difficulty, or a physical infirmity? Have you been trying to "muscle up" and handle it on your own? Instead of praying for the removal of the weakness, try praying for the revelation of God's power in theweakness. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you boast gladly in that place of need, knowing it is where Christ's power will be most evident. Let's reflect on moments our weakness becomes a platform for a trade, our weaknesses in exchange for His perfect power. Today, intentionally identify one area where you feel truly weak or inadequate. Instead of worrying about it, commit to trusting God deeper in that specific situation. As you face a challenge, whisper, "Lord, Your grace is sufficient for me because Your power is made perfect here."
Acts 20, the Apostle Paul will give the Ephesians elders a sobering “wake up call”. Paul knows he will be arrested and that the Ephesians will be attacked by “fierce wolves” and “twisted” preachers. We are at war! But be of good cheer, the war has already been won!
In chapter seven, the Apostle Paul has declared, "the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good" (7:12). The problem is that a person is weak through the flesh. His sinful nature is incapable of keeping the law. Chapter eight introduces the law of the Spirit. "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death" (8:2). Jesus told Nicodemus, "That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again'" (John 3:6,7). When a person is born "of the Spirit," he takes on a new nature. A person who is "born again" has a new nature, but he wrestles with the old nature as Paul descriptively shows in Romans 7:13-25). In Romans 8:5-12, Paul contrasts the law of the flesh and the law of the Spirit. There are two natures and two "mindsets." One leads to destruction and the other to life and peace.
Join Jerry as he starts the book of Galatians, a powerful book written by the Apostle Paul in which he emphasizes the essential truths about the grace of God and our liberty in Christ Jesus. Every day Jerry walks us through a chapter of the New Testament, and gives us some amazing insights and applications. Grab your Bible and great ready for Galatians 1, and join us daily as you take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann. ------- Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/ « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/
Welcometo Pastor's Chat. Today we're looking at Ephesians 3:14-19. These are powerfulverses reminding us of the Apostle Paul's prayer for the church at Ephesus. Inthis prayer, there are four request, but they're not to be looked at asinsulated individual petitions because these four requests are like four partsto a telescope. One request leads into the next one and so on. He prays thatthe inner man might have spiritual strength, which will, in turn, lead to adeeper experience with Christ. This deeper experience will enable him to “apprehend”(to get a hold) of God's great love, which will result in being “filled untothe fullness of God”. So, then, Paul is praying for strength, for depth inour spiritual life, for apprehension, and for fullness. That'swhat we'll be talking about these next couple days because this prayer, thispetition is so vitally important to our spiritual growth and our spiritualwell-being and our spiritual standing as we fight and stand against the wilesof the evil one (Ephesians 6). Please read the petition in these six versescarefully. Oh my friend, it's almost unimaginable that we have a prayer herethat tells us that on earth we can be filled with the fullness of God. JesusChrist himself was the exact image of God (Hebrews 1:3). He was the fullness ofGod manifest on earth (Colossians 1:19). Now we as His believers, as His light,as His witnesses, can be filled with the same fullness of God to make a bigdifference in the world in which we live. Oh,if only we as believers would learn this truth and pray for this greatanointing, this great strengthening of the Holy Spirit to make us all that weshould be for the glory of God. The lack of power and weakness of the churchestoday is that we have no idea as far as most believers are concerned what wehave in Christ Jesus and the fullness of God and the riches of His glory that'savailable to us. And that through this prayer that we read about here we can experiencethis power and strength in our lives Thefirst thing Paul prays for is “to be strengthened with might throughHis Spirit in the inner man”. The presence of the Holy Spirit in our lifeis evidence of our salvation. Romans 8:9 says: “But you are not in the fleshbut in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyonedoes not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His”. Scripture is very clearthat at the moment of our salvation, the Holy Spirit comes to indwell us. But thepower of the Holy Spirit is enablement for Christian living. It's this powerthat Paul desires for these believers here at Ephesus. InActs 1:8, Jesus had said to the disciples, you shall receive power after thatthe Holy Spirit is come upon you. We are told in Luke 4:1, 14, that Jesusperformed His ministry on earth in the power of the Holy Spirit. This power ofthe Holy Spirit is the only resource that we have for Christian living today.When you read through the book of Acts, over and again you see the importanceof the Holy Spirit in the life of the church. There are at least some fifty-ninereferences to the Holy Spirit in the book of Acts. This is one fourth of allthe references found in the New Testament on the Holy Spirit. Someonesaid, that if God took the Holy Spirit out of the church today, He wouldn'teven be missed because we would just go on working as usual. How sad that thisis so true. We can't imagine the wisdom that we would have, the strength thatwe would, the witness that we would in the world, if we would receive this greattruth and allow the Holy Spirit to fill us. living and working in us, andthrough us. Today,how real is the Holy Spirit to you? Are you praying to “be strengthened withmight through His Spirit” to face the challenges of living theChristian life in today's godless culture? Are you praying this for others too? Godbless!
Do we spend enough time focusing on Thanksgiving? In this classic rerun, we listen to Dr. John Whitcomb's teaching on this timely question in a special holiday episode of our broadcast, "Encounter God's Truth." Basing his presentation on the gospel account of Jesus' healing of 10 lepers, our teacher also took us to several other Scriptures that demonstrate the vital importance of giving thanks to the Lord. Host Wayne Shepherd also asked Dr. Whitcomb to expand on the emphasis that the Apostle Paul placed on thankfulness in the great passage in Romans 1. We pray that your Thanksgiving celebration will be richly blessed, and we are glad that you have chosen to make "Encounter God's Truth" a part of it. May God help us all to look to Him during this holiday season.
Contentment does not come naturally. As today's devotional and prayer remind us, many of us grew up wanting things we didn’t have, or lost things we wished we could keep. Vivian Bricker shares how her mother taught her and her sisters early on that contentment is not about what you own, but about the posture of your heart. When you understand your limitations—and God’s limitless provision—you begin to release the constant pressure to have more, do more, or be more. The Apostle Paul understood this well. In Philippians 4, he explains that he learned to be content through both abundance and need. His contentment wasn’t tied to fluctuating circumstances but anchored in the unchanging strength of Christ. True contentment comes not from possessions, comfort, or stability, but from knowing Jesus deeply and trusting Him fully. In Christ, we are spiritually rich, even if we are materially lacking. When we train ourselves to find satisfaction in Him alone, we discover the peace the world cannot give—and cannot take away. Today's Bible Verse: “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:11-13). Takeaway Truths Contentment is learned; it doesn’t come automatically. Jesus Himself is the source and secret of contentment in every circumstance. You have all you need because you have Christ. Let’s Pray Dear Jesus, I come before You today asking You to help me to be content in all circumstances. Whether I have plenty or I am in need, please help me to be content. In truth, I have all things through You. Whether I'm rich, poor, needy, or well fed, I have enough because I have You. Help me remember this rather than falling into the cycle of wanting what I don't have. You are truly the best thing in this world, and You have given me all things. Thank You, Jesus, for always being with me through every circumstance and helping me to become more like You in word, speech, and thought. Help my heart to reflect You and to show You to the lost world. I will be content in all circumstances because I have You, which is the greatest blessing of them all. In Your Name, Amen. Related Scriptures 1 Timothy 6:6 Hebrews 13:5 Psalm 16:5-6 Romans 8:32 Related Resources What Is True Contentment? – Crosswalk.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Date Preached: November 14, 2004Selected ScripturesFor more information, please visit Grace To You Ministries!Our Best Premium Study Bibles:ESV MacArthur Study Bible with Premium Leather: https://amzn.to/477cP10Spurgeon Study Bible: https://amzn.to/3RN6nIhKindle version of NASB MacArthur Bible: https://amzn.to/4aXU6YPHand-picked Must-Read Books for Every Christian:Ashamed of the Gospel: When the Church Becomes Like the World (3rd Edition): https://amzn.to/470VU0eKindle: https://amzn.to/3NurHj0Gospel According to Jesus: https://amzn.to/3RuefwTKindle: https://amzn.to/3NwP8ZbThe Holiness of God: https://amzn.to/3Rpex8eKindle: https://amzn.to/3NqnmO0Saved Without a Doubt: Being Sure of Your Salvation: https://amzn.to/3tmNcLUKindle: https://amzn.to/4738TycHand-picked Must-Read Books for every Pastor/Elder:Called to Lead: 26 Leadership Lessons from the Life of the Apostle Paul: https://amzn.to/3RLyp6XKindle: https://amzn.to/3tke1QLPastoral Ministry: How to Shepherd Biblically: https://amzn.to/41nFNsnKindle: https://amzn.to/41oX3gKPreaching: How to Preach Biblically: https://amzn.to/3tmOIxvKindle: https://amzn.to/3thWo4dExpository Exultation: Christian Preaching as Worship: https://amzn.to/3RMiNQGKindle: https://amzn.to/3RK34RQOur Best Books on Evanglisem:Hell's Best Kept Secret: https://amzn.to/472oGxrKindle: https://amzn.to/3v2DS06Scientific Facts in the Bible: 100 Reasons to Believe the Bible is Supernatural in Origin: https://amzn.to/481rCLSKindle: https://amzn.to/3GM5GbDThe Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible: https://amzn.to/3uWNN7kKindke Version: https://amzn.to/48ftLnDAngels: What the Bible Really Says About God's Heavenly Host: https://amzn.to/3v9flX8Kindle Version: https://amzn.to/481rhZBDemons: What the Bible Really Says About the Powers of Darkness: https://amzn.to/48kZt29Kindle Version: https://amzn.to/4alWpVrAll the above links are affiliate links, which means we get a small commission if you use any of our links to buy these books. We'd be grateful if you used any of our links to buy these books. Thank you!Copyright Notice:© Copyright 2024 by John MacArthur. Used by permission from Grace to You.Website: gty.orgPhone: 800-55-GRACEThis sermon is being shared in accordance with Grace To You copyright policy, which allows for the reproduction and distribution of audio and video messages digitally. We have followed all copyright policies set by Grace To You Ministries to ensure the lawful sharing of this sermon. For any questions or concerns regarding this episode, please feel free to contact us at expositorysermons@gmail.com.Learn more about Grace to You's copyright policy here: https://www.gty.org/about#copyright
Join Jerry as he starts the book of Galatians, a powerful book written by the Apostle Paul in which he emphasizes the essential truths about the grace of God and our liberty in Christ Jesus. Every day Jerry walks us through a chapter of the New Testament, and gives us some amazing insights and applications. Grab your Bible and great ready for Galatians 1, and join us daily as you take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann. ------- Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/ « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/
If we could sum up the heartbeat of the Apostle Paul in one phrase, it would be found in Philippians 3:10
As the Apostle Paul began his letter to the Colossians by speaking of his prayers for them, so he concludes his letter by asking the Colossians to pray for him. Their prayers should be steadfast in thanksgiving and ask God to open the door for Paul to preach the Word, even though he is currently in prison. The Word of God that Christians speak is true and gracious, and Christians look for opportunities to speak in the wisdom God provides. Before St. Paul finishes his letter, he extends greetings from a variety of his fellow workers, revealing the glorious connections that believers have to each other in Christ. Rev. John Bussman, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church and School in Cullman, AL, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Colossians 4:2-18. To learn more about St. Paul's, visit stpaulscullman.com. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle's letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence. Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org
Date Preached: November 7, 2004Selected ScripturesFor more information, please visit Grace To You Ministries!Our Best Premium Study Bibles:ESV MacArthur Study Bible with Premium Leather: https://amzn.to/477cP10Spurgeon Study Bible: https://amzn.to/3RN6nIhKindle version of NASB MacArthur Bible: https://amzn.to/4aXU6YPHand-picked Must-Read Books for Every Christian:Ashamed of the Gospel: When the Church Becomes Like the World (3rd Edition): https://amzn.to/470VU0eKindle: https://amzn.to/3NurHj0Gospel According to Jesus: https://amzn.to/3RuefwTKindle: https://amzn.to/3NwP8ZbThe Holiness of God: https://amzn.to/3Rpex8eKindle: https://amzn.to/3NqnmO0Saved Without a Doubt: Being Sure of Your Salvation: https://amzn.to/3tmNcLUKindle: https://amzn.to/4738TycHand-picked Must-Read Books for every Pastor/Elder:Called to Lead: 26 Leadership Lessons from the Life of the Apostle Paul: https://amzn.to/3RLyp6XKindle: https://amzn.to/3tke1QLPastoral Ministry: How to Shepherd Biblically: https://amzn.to/41nFNsnKindle: https://amzn.to/41oX3gKPreaching: How to Preach Biblically: https://amzn.to/3tmOIxvKindle: https://amzn.to/3thWo4dExpository Exultation: Christian Preaching as Worship: https://amzn.to/3RMiNQGKindle: https://amzn.to/3RK34RQOur Best Books on Evanglisem:Hell's Best Kept Secret: https://amzn.to/472oGxrKindle: https://amzn.to/3v2DS06Scientific Facts in the Bible: 100 Reasons to Believe the Bible is Supernatural in Origin: https://amzn.to/481rCLSKindle: https://amzn.to/3GM5GbDThe Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible: https://amzn.to/3uWNN7kKindke Version: https://amzn.to/48ftLnDAngels: What the Bible Really Says About God's Heavenly Host: https://amzn.to/3v9flX8Kindle Version: https://amzn.to/481rhZBDemons: What the Bible Really Says About the Powers of Darkness: https://amzn.to/48kZt29Kindle Version: https://amzn.to/4alWpVrAll the above links are affiliate links, which means we get a small commission if you use any of our links to buy these books. We'd be grateful if you used any of our links to buy these books. Thank you!Copyright Notice:© Copyright 2024 by John MacArthur. Used by permission from Grace to You.Website: gty.orgPhone: 800-55-GRACEThis sermon is being shared in accordance with Grace To You copyright policy, which allows for the reproduction and distribution of audio and video messages digitally. We have followed all copyright policies set by Grace To You Ministries to ensure the lawful sharing of this sermon. For any questions or concerns regarding this episode, please feel free to contact us at expositorysermons@gmail.com.Learn more about Grace to You's copyright policy here: https://www.gty.org/about#copyright
Join Jerry as he starts the book of Galatians, a powerful book written by the Apostle Paul in which he emphasizes the essential truths about the grace of God and our liberty in Christ Jesus. Every day Jerry walks us through a chapter of the New Testament, and gives us some amazing insights and applications. Grab your Bible and great ready for Galatians 1, and join us daily as you take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann. ------- Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/ « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/
Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.
Adapt and Overcome #RTTBROS #Nightlight"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." — Romans 8:28I remember my old boss telling me something he learned during his military career. Three simple words that became his motto for life: Adapt and overcome. At first, I thought it was just another one of those tough-guy military sayings, you know? But the more I sat with it, the more I realized how deeply biblical that concept really is.Life has this habit of not going according to our plans. The car breaks down when you can't afford the repair. The job you thought was secure disappears. And we're left standing there wondering what just happened.Here's what I've learned: God isn't nearly as concerned with our comfort as He is with our character. He's not shocked when things go sideways. In fact, He's already working on Plan B while we're still trying to figure out what happened to Plan A.Think about the Apostle Paul in Acts 16. He had big plans to preach the gospel, but he kept running into closed doors. The Spirit wouldn't let him preach in Asia. He couldn't go into Bithynia. But then he had a vision of a man from Macedonia saying, "Come over and help us." Paul adapted, changed direction, and ended up bringing the gospel to Europe for the first time. That one adaptation changed the entire course of Christian history.Adapt and overcome isn't just about toughing it out. It's about trusting that God is redirecting, not rejecting. It's about being flexible enough to follow where He leads, even when it's not where we planned to go.The military teaches adapt and overcome because in battle, nothing ever goes exactly according to plan. Well, friend, we're in a spiritual battle, and our enemy isn't going to make things easy. But here's the good news: we serve a God who specializes in taking our messes and making them into messages, our tests into testimonies, our trials into triumphs.Romans 8:28 reminds us that all things work together for good to them that love God. Notice it doesn't say all things ARE good. It says they work together FOR good. That's adaptation. That's overcoming.So whatever you're facing today, whatever has gone wrong, remember: God's not done yet. He's teaching you to adapt and overcome. And when you do, you'll look back and see that history really is just HIS story, and He was writing a better chapter than you could have imagined.Let's pray: Father, when our plans fall apart, help us trust that You're not surprised. Give us the strength to adapt to what You're doing and the faith to overcome what stands in our way. In Jesus' name, Amen.#Faith #Resilience #ChristianLiving #DailyDevotion #TrustGod #BiblicalWisdom #SpiritualGrowth #OvercomingObstacles #RTTBROS #NightlightBe sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.https://linktr.ee/rttbros
If we could sum up the heartbeat of the Apostle Paul in one phrase, it would be found in Philippians 3:10
This week is our special Veterans Day Service, where United honors our veterans who served our country. This week's message involves an illustration of the “White Table” which is a silent reminder of the soldiers who never made it home. It's empty, yet it speaks volumes about sacrifice, longing, and hope. Pastor Rob will make reference to the passage In Acts 17:26–27, where the Apostle Paul tells us how God has placed every person, in every place and time, with purpose — so that we might seek Him and find Him. The “White Table” reminds us that while some never returned to their earthly homes, God's desire is that every person would come home to Him. In this message, we'll look at how even in our remembrance of loss, God's grace is calling us closer — reminding us that He is not far from any of us.If you have any questions about this podcast or would like to share a testimony or prayer request, we would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at the following email: churchoffice@unitedassembly.org
Do you ever feel like you're supposed to be grateful… but you're just not feeling it? You're not alone. In this episode, John Ortberg tackles what to do when gratitude doesn't come naturally and offers a surprisingly powerful spiritual strategy: “Let's pretend.”But don't worry — this isn't fake it till you make it.It's: “Fake it till He remakes you.”Rooted in the wisdom of C.S. Lewis, the Apostle Paul, and the ancient Hebrew practice of the thanksgiving sacrifice, this episode walks us through why aspiring to be grateful, even when we don't feel it, is not inauthentic, but actually a deeply faithful act.
It's Wednesday, November 12th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Chinese Communists arrested and detained three Christians Communist authorities in central China arrested and detained three Christians from a house church this month. Two of the Christians are pastors. They are facing trumped up charges of “fraud” and had previously spent over two years in custody. Officials often use such charges against house church leaders for simply receiving tithes and offerings. ChinaAid noted, “In recent years, the charge of ‘fraud' has increasingly been used by local governments across China as a common tactic to suppress pastors of house churches systematically.” Psalm 14:1, 4 says, “The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God.' They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none who does good. … Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge, who eat up My people as they eat bread, and do not call on the LORD?” Japanese soldiers address attacks by bears Japan deployed troops to the northern part of the island country last week to deal with a string of deadly attacks—from bears. Since April of this year, bears have killed at least 13 people in Japan and injured over 100 more. That's the most fatalities on record. Experts are blaming the attacks on a poor acorn harvest this year. Bears are now leaving their natural habitats and wandering into urban areas to find food. In one incident last month, a bear attacked shoppers at a supermarket 80 miles north of Tokyo. Supreme Court affirms Trump's call for biologically accurate passports In the United States, the U.S. Supreme ruled in favor of the Trump administration in a case involving so-called gender identity. The ruling allows the State Department to require passports to list the holder's biological sex at birth. The court ruled 6-3 along ideological lines. The ruling stated, “Displaying passport holders' sex at birth no more offends equal protection principles than displaying their country of birth—in both cases, the government is merely attesting to an historical fact without subjecting anyone to differential treatment.” Nebraska defunded Planned Parenthood Nebraska became the latest state to defund abortion providers like Planned Parenthood. The state's Republican Governor Jim Pillen signed an executive order last Thursday to end Medicaid funding to abortion providers. Nebraska made the move after the U.S. Supreme Court allowed South Carolina to defund Planned Parenthood. Listen to comments from Nebraska State Attorney General Mike Hilgers. HILGERS: “Today is a culmination of years of work to ensure that Nebraska taxpayers no longer have their tax dollars going to fund abortions in the state of Nebraska. It's a fight that has gone on even from my time in the legislature. “When we first got Title X funds, we stopped Title X from going to abortion providers, and now, thanks to [Nebraska] Governor Pillen's leadership, we have finally gotten to a place where taxpayer funds will no longer support abortions.” Age of first-time home buyer has increased to record high of 40 The National Association of Realtors released their 2025 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. The share of homes being bought by first-time buyers dropped to a record low of 21% over the last year. Meanwhile, the typical age of a first-time buyer climbed to an all-time high of 40. Jessica Lautz, Deputy Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors, said, “The historically low share of first-time buyers underscores the real-world consequences of a housing market starved for affordable inventory.” Regular Bible readers are more generous The American Bible Society released a new chapter from its State of the Bible USA 2025 report. The research found people who read the Bible regularly are more likely to be generous. Among Christian denominations, Evangelical Protestants have the highest percentage of givers and the highest median amount given. John Plake with the American Bible Society said, “The correlation between Scripture engagement and loving behavior and generosity is undeniable. The more people engage with Scripture, the more likely they are to give of their time, talents, and treasures and to act lovingly toward their neighbors.” In 1 Corinthians 9:7, the Apostle Paul wrote, “So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” Florida's first search-and-rescue otter And finally, officials in Florida are deploying their first ever search-and-rescue otter. Splash, the two-year-old otter, is now helping the Martin County Sheriff's Office in search and rescue missions. Splash uses a unique bubble technique to detect scents underwater. This allows him to find missing bodies more effectively than dive teams can. Listen to comments from Sheriff John Budensiek to CBS12 News. BUDENSIEK: “We see a lot of innovative things with technology [Artificial Intelligence], but we're going back to the basics of using an animal to do what they do best, and that's to go in their own environment and detect things that don't belong there.” A rescue otter. What a brilliant way to employ one of God's creatures to rescue those made in God's image! Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, November 12th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.
Date Preached: October 24, 2004Selected ScripturesFor more information, please visit Grace To You Ministries!Our Best Premium Study Bibles:ESV MacArthur Study Bible with Premium Leather: https://amzn.to/477cP10Spurgeon Study Bible: https://amzn.to/3RN6nIhKindle version of NASB MacArthur Bible: https://amzn.to/4aXU6YPHand-picked Must-Read Books for Every Christian:Ashamed of the Gospel: When the Church Becomes Like the World (3rd Edition): https://amzn.to/470VU0eKindle: https://amzn.to/3NurHj0Gospel According to Jesus: https://amzn.to/3RuefwTKindle: https://amzn.to/3NwP8ZbThe Holiness of God: https://amzn.to/3Rpex8eKindle: https://amzn.to/3NqnmO0Saved Without a Doubt: Being Sure of Your Salvation: https://amzn.to/3tmNcLUKindle: https://amzn.to/4738TycHand-picked Must-Read Books for every Pastor/Elder:Called to Lead: 26 Leadership Lessons from the Life of the Apostle Paul: https://amzn.to/3RLyp6XKindle: https://amzn.to/3tke1QLPastoral Ministry: How to Shepherd Biblically: https://amzn.to/41nFNsnKindle: https://amzn.to/41oX3gKPreaching: How to Preach Biblically: https://amzn.to/3tmOIxvKindle: https://amzn.to/3thWo4dExpository Exultation: Christian Preaching as Worship: https://amzn.to/3RMiNQGKindle: https://amzn.to/3RK34RQOur Best Books on Evanglisem:Hell's Best Kept Secret: https://amzn.to/472oGxrKindle: https://amzn.to/3v2DS06Scientific Facts in the Bible: 100 Reasons to Believe the Bible is Supernatural in Origin: https://amzn.to/481rCLSKindle: https://amzn.to/3GM5GbDThe Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible: https://amzn.to/3uWNN7kKindke Version: https://amzn.to/48ftLnDAngels: What the Bible Really Says About God's Heavenly Host: https://amzn.to/3v9flX8Kindle Version: https://amzn.to/481rhZBDemons: What the Bible Really Says About the Powers of Darkness: https://amzn.to/48kZt29Kindle Version: https://amzn.to/4alWpVrAll the above links are affiliate links, which means we get a small commission if you use any of our links to buy these books. We'd be grateful if you used any of our links to buy these books. Thank you!Copyright Notice:© Copyright 2024 by John MacArthur. Used by permission from Grace to You.Website: gty.orgPhone: 800-55-GRACEThis sermon is being shared in accordance with Grace To You copyright policy, which allows for the reproduction and distribution of audio and video messages digitally. We have followed all copyright policies set by Grace To You Ministries to ensure the lawful sharing of this sermon. For any questions or concerns regarding this episode, please feel free to contact us at expositorysermons@gmail.com.Learn more about Grace to You's copyright policy here: https://www.gty.org/about#copyright
The book of Romans is unlike any other book in the Bible. This letter, written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Rome, is filled with encouragement and instruction, doctrine and truths, and gives us a unique understanding of who Jesus Christ is—and why that matters in your every day life. Grab your Bible and join Jerry as he dives into this life-changing book, the book of Romans. Join Jerry as he walks through this book and gives insight along the way about how you can apply it in your every day life. You can also take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann—so grab your Bible and let's get started! ------- LINKS: « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/ « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/
Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike looks at Romans 15:14–21, where we see the Apostle Paul's deep heart for the gospel. Paul made it his life's mission to lead people to Jesus so that they would glorify God in worship and honor Him through lives of obedience. His passion was that every believer would not only know Christ but also follow wherever He leads, living in a way that brings glory to His name. Paul reminds us that true ministry isn't about personal success—it's about helping others see and worship Jesus.
The Apostle Paul of course lived in a day without travel agents, but still had a choice to make about who would make his travel plans - himself or the Lord. It will serve us well to remember that the Lord has not changed one bit since then. He is still an omnipotent, omniscient God. With those credentials, doesn't it makes sense to let Him book our journey through life?
Daily Study Experiencing financial lack while pursuing God's calling—whether in business, ministry, or nonprofit spaces—is not necessarily a sign that you are doing something wrong. The Apostle Paul and other apostles faced severe hardship; they were hungry and thirsty, had insufficient clothing, and sometimes had no home. However, even through these financial struggles, they were doing exactly what God had called them to do. Financial struggle is not an automatic indicator that you are on the wrong path. 1 Corinthians 4:8-13 NLT [8] You think you already have everything you need. You think you are already rich. You have begun to reign in God's kingdom without us! I wish you really were reigning already, for then we would be reigning with you. [9] Instead, I sometimes think God has put us apostles on display, like prisoners of war at the end of a victor's parade, condemned to die. We have become a spectacle to the entire world-to people and angels alike. [10] Our dedication to Christ makes us look like fools, but you claim to be so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are so powerful! You are honored, but we are ridiculed. [11] Even now we go hungry and thirsty, and we don't have enough clothes to keep warm. We are often beaten and have no home. [12] We work wearily with our own hands to earn our living. We bless those who curse us. We are patient with those who abuse us. [13] We appeal gently when evil things are said about us. Yet we are treated like the world's garbage, like everybody's trash-right up to the present moment. Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com
In this episode of The Leader's Notebook, I continue our series, Also Featured in the Cast, with a look at the Apostle Paul—not as the star of the story, but through the lives of three people who shaped his journey: Ananias, Barnabas, and Stephen. Each of these men was “also mentioned in the cast,” yet each played an indispensable role in God's plan. Ananias obeyed a terrifying call to reach out to a persecutor. Barnabas became the encourager who restored others when no one else would. And Stephen's Christlike suffering sowed the seeds of Paul's conversion. Their stories remind us that God often works through ordinary people in unseen moments—and that our obedience, compassion, and faithfulness may change lives in ways we'll never fully know. – Dr. Mark Rutland Chapters (00:00:03) - The Leaders Notebook(00:00:25) - The Unfamiliar Margaret Hamilton(00:02:18) - Acts 4, The Son of Exclamation(00:06:30) - Three Disciples of Paul the Apostle(00:13:24) - The crazy old Welshman from Port St. Joe(00:16:51) - Barnabas and Saul of Tarsus(00:22:30) - The Life of Barnabas(00:26:46) - Paul the Apostle and Saul of Tarsus(00:32:54) - Suffering in the Gospel(00:37:59) - The Leader's Notebook
The book of Romans is unlike any other book in the Bible. This letter, written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Rome, is filled with encouragement and instruction, doctrine and truths, and gives us a unique understanding of who Jesus Christ is—and why that matters in your every day life. Grab your Bible and join Jerry as he dives into this life-changing book, the book of Romans. Join Jerry as he walks through this book and gives insight along the way about how you can apply it in your every day life. You can also take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann—so grab your Bible and let's get started! ------- LINKS: « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/ « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/
In our instant-gratification culture, we've lost the ability to find gratitude during difficult seasons. The Apostle Paul wrote Philippians from prison, yet chose gratitude over complaint, demonstrating that gratitude isn't what we feel when life is good—it's what we choose when life is hard. Research shows that people who regularly express gratitude are 25% happier and less stressed, with gratitude growing strongest during hardships. We can develop gratitude by remembering what God has already done, recognizing His current work in our lives, and trusting His eternal perspective. Like diamonds formed under pressure, our struggles might be the very pressure God uses to create something beautiful in our lives.
Gary continues his discussion with Kim Burgess on 1 Corinthians 15. In this episode, Kim walks through the Apostle Paul's "seed analogy" and some of the Greek behind the terms he uses. Paul uses wheat, but Kim changes it to corn to make the point clear: what goes in the ground (what is sown) is not what comes out of the ground (what is raised). The final result is much more glorious than how it began.
What'cha thinkin' about? On Friday we were thinking about fence posts - some metaphorical pillars that can help steady our minds when they start to go wobbly. And Jim will bring that idea home on today's broadcast. But the Apostle Paul has some more general advice for the Philippians: Reflect on the good. The encouraging, noble, inspiring things in life - whatever they are - are worthy of our contemplation. Let's join Pastor Jim at Philippians 3, verse 15. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS11102025_0.mp3Scripture References: Philippians 3-4
The book of Romans is unlike any other book in the Bible. This letter, written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Rome, is filled with encouragement and instruction, doctrine and truths, and gives us a unique understanding of who Jesus Christ is—and why that matters in your every day life. Grab your Bible and join Jerry as he dives into this life-changing book, the book of Romans. Join Jerry as he walks through this book and gives insight along the way about how you can apply it in your every day life. You can also take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann—so grab your Bible and let's get started! ------- LINKS: « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/ « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/
Let's face it: It's hard to talk about money. But what if we reoriented our perspective on it? In fact, what if we reoriented our entire lives in response to the grace that God has shown us? In this week's message from 2 Corinthians 8, Pastor J.D. explains the Apostle Paul's reasons for wanting the Corinthian church to be generous, as well as some obstacles that often sabotage good intentions. We have such a kind, generous God, and in the end, the only right response is for our own generosity to overflow to those around us.
Pastor Gabriel Hughes preaches on Romans 7:13-20 where the Apostle Paul reflects upon the war we all still face as Christians, wanting to do the right thing but sin lies close behind. Visit providencecasagrande.com for more info about our church.