Early Christian apostle and missionary (c. AD 5 - c. AD 64/67)
POPULARITY
Categories
991 episodes with apostle paul
285 episodes with apostle paul
342 episodes with apostle paul
330 episodes with apostle paul
187 episodes with apostle paul
130 episodes with apostle paul
183 episodes with apostle paul
147 episodes with apostle paul
89 episodes with apostle paul
104 episodes with apostle paul
123 episodes with apostle paul
82 episodes with apostle paul
75 episodes with apostle paul
96 episodes with apostle paul
52 episodes with apostle paul
213 episodes with apostle paul
42 episodes with apostle paul
89 episodes with apostle paul
120 episodes with apostle paul
83 episodes with apostle paul
114 episodes with apostle paul
45 episodes with apostle paul
48 episodes with apostle paul
44 episodes with apostle paul
54 episodes with apostle paul
43 episodes with apostle paul
45 episodes with apostle paul
60 episodes with apostle paul
91 episodes with apostle paul
38 episodes with apostle paul
43 episodes with apostle paul
35 episodes with apostle paul
46 episodes with apostle paul
37 episodes with apostle paul
55 episodes with apostle paul
54 episodes with apostle paul
21 episodes with apostle paul
43 episodes with apostle paul
43 episodes with apostle paul
33 episodes with apostle paul
74 episodes with apostle paul
49 episodes with apostle paul
40 episodes with apostle paul
35 episodes with apostle paul
42 episodes with apostle paul
28 episodes with apostle paul
33 episodes with apostle paul
36 episodes with apostle paul
78 episodes with apostle paul
37 episodes with apostle paul
35 episodes with apostle paul
37 episodes with apostle paul
29 episodes with apostle paul
36 episodes with apostle paul
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
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
If we could sum up the heartbeat of the Apostle Paul in one phrase, it would be found in Philippians 3:10
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/
Welcome to Christ Community's Online Service! When it comes to relationships, conflict is unavoidable—but how we respond makes all the difference. In Acts 21–22, the Apostle Paul faces intense relational tension and shows us both what damages relationships and what can restore them. In this message, Pastor Alan unpacks four ways we often hurt the people around us—avoidance, assumptions, accusations, and judgments—and four ways to move toward peace and reconciliation. Listen to discover how following Jesus can transform the way we navigate conflict and become true peacemakers. For prayer and to stay connected, please visit: https://www.cccgreeley.org For Giving: https://www.cccgreeley.org/give/ Discussion guide: https://cccgreeley.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/2025-Nov-8-9-Group-Discussion-Questions.pdf Find Family at our Engage Lunch!
Even in chains, facing trial and uncertainty, the Apostle Paul found a joy that couldn't be taken away. Philippians is often called “The Epistle of Joy” — not just because Paul mentions joy 16 times, but because his own life exemplifies how true joy is rooted in God's unchanging presence and grace. Paul's message is clear: no adversity, no hardship, no external circumstance can steal the joy we find in Christ. Join us this week as we explore how we, too, can hold onto a joy that remains steadfast — a joy that nothing can take or steal. The heartbeat of Church on the Rock is to help people discover how they can LOVE God and LOVE one another, LIVE with passion, purpose and freedom, and LEAD others to this same experience in Jesus. We simply say, “helping others Love, Live, and Lead in Jesus". Commit to your "One More": https://onemoreak.com Let's Connect here: https://churchak.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/84/responses/new Learn more about us at https://churchak.org If you enjoyed our teaching and would like to donate to our ministries go here: https://pushpay.com/g/churchak?src=hpp
Ezra 7 tells of the personal qualities of Ezra the priest - verse 6 skilled in the Law of Moses that Yahweh had given Israel; verses 9-10 Ezra had set his heart to study God's Law and therefore the good hand of God was upon him (what a lesson to us); and Ezra graciously thanked the Almighty for His loving kindness ('chesed') shown to His people Israel (verse 27). The chapter tells of king Darius' generosity and material support for the work of building the temple; and the king's command to the Governors on the east of Jordan to materially support the project. King Darius warns of the serious consequences which would come to any who would not support the building.Hosea 8 tells that because Israel had failed to obey God's laws they would experience great punishment - "they had sown the wind, they would reap the whirlwind" - the teaching of the Bible is that whatever we do produces consequences and that we are responsible for our actions (read aloud Galatians 6verses7-10 pause and ponder). The idolatry of Israel would incur God's judging them by using another idolatrous nation. Rather than turning to God for help Israel hires foreign armies. This causes them greater problems. For the kingdom of Israel in the north the time of destruction was upon them.Acts 27 tells of Paul's journey to Rome for his case to be heard by the Emperor Nero. The ship sets sail in fine weather with only Luke accompanying the Apostle Paul on his voyage. The ship soon finds sailing difficult because of the opposing winds. When the ship reaches Crete it has now become too dangerous for sailing; and Paul advises that they should stay in Crete until the winter passes. But the owner of the ship was determined to reach Rome as quickly as possible to receive his profit. The Roman Centurion decides to accept the ship owners' position and to continue on their journey. The ship is now beset with a hurricane-like wind called Euroclydon. The crew takes many measures to try to save the ship and its precious cargo. Nothing works and their lives are entirely at the mercy of this horrible storm. All on board the ship become depressed and for fourteen days eat nothing. Then Paul, after receiving a vision from an angel of God, takes control and encourages everyone. The Apostle gives thanks to God and they all eat. After that the ship is lightened by throwing overboard the wheat from the hold. There are 276 people on the ship. Some of the sailors pretend to let down anchors under the ship, but their intentions are to flee in the lifeboats. Paul says to the Roman Centurion (Julius) that unless the sailors stay on the ship all lives are in danger. Julius stops the sailors from escaping. When daylight comes the crew run the ship into a creek which sees the rough sea smash the ship to pieces. All escape safely to shore - some swimming and others being carried by the current on planks of wood from the broken ship. Acts 27verses31 makes the nice point that unless we abide or remain in the Christ ship we cannot be savedverses compare John 15 our fruitfulness and salvation is dependent on us abiding in the Vine of God - His precious Son our Lord Jesus Christ.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow
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.
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/
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.
God talks to sinners about salvation. He talks to believers about the sin. What God wants to do is instruct us in the area of immorality in the church. Immorality translates as loose living. In I Corinthians 6:18 Apostle Paul said to "flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body." Abstaining from sexual immorality has always been a commandment of God.Support the showhttp://www.gwafgbc.org http://www.gwafgbc.org/storehttp://www.gwafgbc.org/givehttps://vimeo.com/manage/videos
The Apostle Paul shows us something remarkable: the greatest opposition can become your greatest opportunity to share the gospel.
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.
Join Pastor Keeyon for a thoughtful and transformative episode as he guides us through “The Top 10”, a self-evaluative exercise designed to help Jesus followers identify and examine the primary voices shaping their worldview.This reflective practice challenges us, just as the Apostle Paul encourages, to pursue unity through the bond of peace, learning to listen, understand, and build bridges with those outside our usual circles of influence.You won't need any special materials—the exercise can be done anywhere, but for your convenience, we've provided a printable version of The Top 10 graphic.Participate in the full exercise this Sunday on the Wellington Heights Community Church YouTube page , or listen anytime on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.We'd love to hear what you discover through this reflection!Share your insights: wellingtonheightchurch@gmail.comFor deeper conversation or to learn more about the vision of Embodiment Sunday: keeyon@wellingtonheightscommunitychurch.org
In this message titled “Tent Living”, Pastor Matt Love explores 2 Corinthians 5:1–10, where the Apostle Paul describes our earthly lives as temporary “tents” and promises an eternal home with God. Through personal stories and honest reflections on pain, grief, and hope, Matt unpacks how to live faithfully in a broken world. Whether you're dealing with loss, fear, or uncertainty, this sermon invites you to embrace three powerful truths: grieve what is, live by faith, and obey with confidence. If you've ever felt like this isn't the way it's supposed to be, this talk is for you.
Are you a citizen of heaven or just a visitor passing through? In this powerful message from our Philippians series, we tackle one of the most important questions every believer must answer: Where does your true allegiance lie?Using the powerful metaphor of a passport—and a harrowing story from a recent mission trip to India involving a stray dog—we explore what it means to claim citizenship in heaven while living on earth. The Apostle Paul challenges us to examine our lives for evidence of our true citizenship.In This Episode:The significance of a spiritual passport and what it reveals about your allegianceWhy Paul warns "with tears" about fake citizens within the churchFour characteristics of bad examples (those who make themselves a priority)Four characteristics of good examples (those who make Christ a priority)How your daily life—not just Sunday morning—proves your heavenly citizenshipThe sobering reality that you're always modeling your faith, for better or worseWhy this world should never feel quite like home to a true citizen of heavenHow to know if your name is written in the Book of LifeKey Scripture: Philippians 3:17-21Discussion Questions:What evidence in your life proves you're a citizen of heaven rather than just a visitor?Paul says, "You are always modeling the faith, for better or for worse." What kind of example are you showing to those watching your life?Does this world feel like home to you, or do you experience a holy restlessness for something more?Take inventory: Where is your mind predominantly set—on earthly things or heavenly things?How does the reality of Christ's return impact your daily decisions and priorities?Challenge for This Week:Examine your "spiritual passport" this week. If someone could only observe your schedule, your spending, your thought life, and your conversations, what would they conclude about your citizenship? Ask God to reveal areas where you've settled too comfortably into earthly living and to renew your longing for your true home.
The reality of God's sovereignty in salvation and the promise that no one and nothing can separate the Christian from God's love are reasons for all who are in Christ to rejoice. However, these same truths will lead many to ask important and sometimes difficult questions. One such question is what about Israel, what about the Jews? In Romans 9 through 11, the Apostle Paul addresses this question; in doing so, he not only provides answers, but he gives us an example of what it means to be burdened for those we know and love who are separated from Christ.
The early church is often painted as an ideal of perfect community. The reality, however, was far from picturesque. The church in Corinth was, to put it lightly, a mess. In one of his letters to the Corinthian church, the Apostle Paul tried to paint a clear picture for the people and untangle the many theological and moral knots the church had created for itself. His letter to them still rings true to the church today. How can we be unified in a world of chaos? How can we be wise in a world of foolishness?
11-9-25 | The Apostle Paul wrote an amazing letter from prison to the Church at Philippi about advancing the gospel, Christ's example of humility, and joy in all circumstances. This November, on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights, we will unpack this great book, showing how our lives can be enriched.
Introduction: It's Time to Grow Up… (1 Corinthians 3:1–9) Because your childish THINKING holds you back. (1 Cor 3:1–2) Because your childish BEHAVIOR hurts others. (1 Cor 3:3) Because your childish FAVORITISM highlights man and not God. (1 Cor 3:4–8) Because your childish SELFISHNESS hides your identity. (1 Cor 3:9) God, help me to grow up. Today, I need to stop _______________________________________ and start _______________________________________. Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead 1 Corinthians 3:1-9What was your big take-away from this passage / message?Why do so many Christians act like adult babies and why do so many churches pamper these adult babies? What is the solution to this problem?Define jealousy and strife. How do you see yourself being jealous or stirring up strife right now?According to Paul, why shouldn't there be any competition in the church?What identity does Paul assign to Christians in 1 Corinthians 3:9? How should this identity affect how you act and serve the church?BreakoutShare how you filled in the following blanks at the end of your outline: God, help me to grow up. Today, I need to stop _______________________________________ and start _______________________________________. Encourage and pray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Turn your Bibles to 1 Corinthians chapter 3 verses 1 through 9.1 Corinthians chapter 3 verses 1 through 9.It's time to grow up.Have you ever thought that about someone else?You ever thought that about a neighbor, a coworker?Have you ever said that to someone else?To a friend, to a family member?And whenever you think or say that sentence, it always comes with a sense of frustration,a sense of disbelief that someone could be so immature, that someone could be so childish.I can distinctly remember a time where I thought and said that exact sentence.It's time to grow up.It was years ago as I was sick on the couch watching my favorite sick day show, Dr. Phil.And don't judge me for my favorite sick time show.You probably don't have one that's much better.Maybe it's helped me with counseling over the years. I don't really know.But I'll never forget this one particular episode as Dr. Phil interviewed a 24-year-old manwho considered himself 18 months old.He was an adult baby.He slept in a massive custom crib.He had customized onesies in his closet.He wore diapers and he ate baby food.And Dr. Phil asked him, "Do you think you'll ever grow past this age?"Is that decent? I've been working on that all week. Is that okay?My wife doesn't think it's really good, so I guess it's not.Pastor Jeff is encouraging me, though.And then Brett said, "I don't think so. I've done a lot of research.And this is the age that I feel, 18 months."I was so disturbed by Brett's delusions.I was so bothered by his contentment with never growing upand the unwillingness of his loved ones to call him out.As I was sick on that couch, I wanted to climb through the TVand join Dr. Phil in saying, "It's time to grow up."Do you know what's even sadder to me than Brett's childish behavior?The childish lifestyle of many Christians.Adult babies are in every church.Adult babies are men and women who are content to never grow up.Content to never mature.They are committed to staying right where they areand never making any progress.So many churches are content with pampering these adult babies,catering to their desires, and baby-proofing the Bibleto avoid any sharp edges or offensive truths.So many pastors are committed to playing along with people's delusionsrather than lovingly calling them out.Thankfully, the apostle Paul did not have that commitment.He had a much different commitment to the Corinthian church,who also had an adult baby problem.Paul was 100% committed to this church's unity and purity.He had no interest in playing along with their delusions.He was unwilling to clean up their toys,snap on their onesies, and tuck them into their adult cribs.He was unafraid to burst their bubble and to lovingly call them outbecause their behavior was unacceptable to Godand it was damaging to the entire church.Paul was bold in calling out the Corinthians and saying,"Okay, it's time to get your big boy pants on.It's time to grow up."And this message from Paul wasn't just for the Corinthiansalmost 2,000 years ago.This message from Paul is for Harvest Bible Chapel today.And I really don't want you to think,"Oh, man, I wish so-and-so was here.He or she really needs to grow up."Listen, that person isn't here, but you are.You really need to hear this word from the Lord.In some ways or in many ways, you need to grow up.I need to grow up.So before we continue any further, let's go to the Lord and ask for His help.Please pray for me that will faithfully proclaim God's wordand I will pray for you that you will faithfully receive it.Father, we just celebrated children in our church.Children are a gift. Children are a blessing.The Lord, when we as adults act like children, there's a huge problem.Lord, I admit to you that I can be an adult baby.I can be childish.And I know the same is true for every single person in this room.Help us to stop thinking that this is for somebody else.This is a word for each and every one of us.Maybe we'd walk out of this room as different peopleand we'd be put on the path to maturity.We ask and pray all these things in Jesus' name.Amen.It's time to grow up.Reason number one, because your child is thinking holds you back.Your child is thinking holds you back.In last week's passage, the Apostle Paul reminded usthat everyone who is in Christ has been given the mind of Christ.That sounds really awesome, doesn't it?But what in the world does that mean?What is the mind of Christ?God's Word.You have been given God's Word.You don't have to wonder what God thinks about anything.You don't have to wonder what God thinks about himself, salvation,or how you should live your life.He tells you in His Word.He not only gives you His Word,but He also gives you the Holy Spirit to help you understand this Wordand help you to understand how you apply it to your life.God doesn't tell you all that you could know,but He does tell you all that you need to know.Those who are spiritual are able to understand spiritual truths.Well, great. Thanks, Paul. I appreciate that.Here is a butt coming in chapter 3, verse 1.Listen to what Paul says."But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people,but as people of the flesh as infants in Christ."At first glance, it seems like Paul is sayingthat there are no Christians in Corinth.This church is only made up of unsaved peoplewho have no true life and no true relationship with God.But that's not what Paul is saying at all.There are true believers in Corinth,and there are two context clues in this versethat show us that Paul is talking to Corinthian Christians.First of all, Paul calls them brothers.Paul isn't Hulk Hogan. He isn't called everybody brother.That was just for Pastor Jeff.Paul only calls his spiritual siblings brothers and sisters.This is a term of affection.Paul isn't coming in hot saying,"Okay, idiots, time to shut up and grow up."That's not what he's doing.He's not putting them in a headlock and giving them noogiesuntil they do what he tells them to do.No, he's coming in with an arm around their shoulder.Brothers, sisters, I love you.You're my family. Jesus Christ loves you,but you're not acting like you love Jesus.You're not acting like Christians.You're not acting like you have the Holy Spirit within you.You are letting your sinful desires,you are letting your flesh control you.And secondly, Paul calls them by another name.Paul calls them infants in Christ.So they are in Christ.They are saved. Their sins have been forgiven,but they are stuck in their immaturity.They are standing still.And Paul is saying to them,"I want to have an adult conversation with you,but all you can do is goo goo, gaga, and spit up all over yourself."What is the proof of their baby-ness?Verse chapter 2 tells us it's their spiritual diet.Let's read verse 2."I fed you with milk, not solid food,for you were not ready for it,and even now you are not yet ready."When my kids were born,I didn't throw them a pizza party in the delivery room.I didn't try to serve them a hot slice of pizzawith extra cheese and pepperoni.Why not?Because they were not ready for it.Their systems couldn't handle that kind of meal.When we brought Sam and then years later,Emmy home from the hospital,I didn't try to force-feed them ribeye steak and corn on the cob.Again, why not?Because they could not handle it.They were not ready for it.Newborns cannot eat corn on the cob, pizza and steak.Newborns cannot eat solid food.Babies can only be nourished by milk.But that was years ago.Let's talk about now.Sam is six years old and Emmy is almost four.Should my kids be able to handle pizza, corn on the cob and steak now?Why is that?Because they're older.They should be ready for solid food.If they're not, there is something seriously wrong within themthat Kate and I should not ignore.The Corinthian church should be ready for the solid food of God's Word,but they're not.There is something seriously wrong within them that Paul cannot ignore.After years and years of being Christians,the Corinthians are still only drinking from the milk of the Bible basics.Their diet is way off because they have no desire to move forward.And to be clear, new believers do need the milk of the Bible basics.They do need the spiritual ABCs.God is holy, man is sinful.Jesus Christ came to die on the cross,and everyone who trusts in Him will be forgiven.Jesus loves me this I know for the...Yes, amen to all these truths.We do touch on these essentials every single week, don't we?These are the foundation of our faith.But do you agree there's way more to the story?There's way more to know.There's way more to learn.At the beginning of your spiritual life,you must be fed like a spiritual newborn.But as time goes on, your diet should progressso that you can progress,that you can grow in your faith and make improvements.I'm not a dietitian by any stretch of the imagination,but to grow big and strong physically,you need a certain calorie intake.You need to eat from a wide variety of food groups.To grow big and strong spiritually,you need to consume a significant amount of God's Word.You need to have a balanced understandingof the Old Testament and the New Testament.You shouldn't say, "You know what? That book isn't really for me."No, they're all for you.All 66 books of the Bible are essential for your growth.You should make the attempt to have a balanced understandingof the major topics of Scripture,the character and attributes of God,the person and work of Jesus Christ,sanctification, the church, end times,and on and on the list goes.As Paul says in 2 Timothy 3, verses 16 through 17,"All Scripture, not just some, not just most,all Scripture is breathed out by God,and profitable for teaching, for reproof,for correction, for training and righteousness,that the man of God may be complete,equipped for every good work."It takes the whole Bible to make you a whole person.You should have an appetite for the solid food of Scripture.Your knowledge of and your love for God's Wordshould increase day by day, week by week, month by month,year by year, and again, if it's not, there's a problem.Your desire to obey God's Word should increase over time.If you truly have the mind of Christ,you should love the thoughts of Christ.And the author of Hebrews explains the long-term side effectsof only drinking milk.He says this, "For though by this time you ought to be teachers,you need someone to teach you againthe basic principles of the oracles of God.You need milk, not solid food.For everyone who lives on milk is unskilledin the Word of righteousness since he is a child."I'm going to be very blunt for the next few minutes.I've been praying for this section of the sermon all week longbecause I want you to receive what I'm about to offerwith the intention I give it.This comes from love and concern.Some of you have only been drinking milk for years,and it shows.Some of you are still spiritual newbornsand not spiritual adults,even though you've followed Christ for years,maybe even decades.Some of you should be ready for the solid food of Scripture,but you're not.Some of you should be ready to teach the Bibleback in Harvest Academy, but you're not.Some of you should be able to pray in front of other believers,lead prayer groups to prayer services, but you're not.Some of you men should be elder qualified by nowand ready to help shepherd this flock and shoulderthe responsibility, but you're not.If I have described you on any level,please understand I'm not trying to scold you.I'm not trying to push you down like the Apostle Paul.I only have the desire to encourage you and to pull you uplike the Apostle Paul.I want to put a shoulder around you, brother, sister,God has so much more for you in store.If you'll just take a step forward and make progress by His grace.Don't stay where you are.Don't be content to always drink milk feast on this book.Do not be content to always swim in the shallow end of the gospelwith your floaties on.Dive in, explore, challenge yourself.Do not be content with riding with spiritual training wheelsyour entire life.Ask God to give you a sense of confidenceso that you can ride with confidenceand help other people to ride with confidence.Repent of your laziness.Turn from your apathy to the things of God.Ask the Lord to give you a greater hunger for His word,a greater motivation to run after holiness,a greater commitment to the strength of this church.After service, ask a pastor or elder to pray for you.Ask a mature member of this congregationor a godly friend to help you and to keep you accountable.It's time to grow up because your childish thinking holds you backfrom being who God has created you to beand doing what God has called you to do.It's time to grow up.Reason number two, because your childish behavior hurts others.Your childish behavior hurts others.Paul goes on to give another exampleof the Corinthian sinful immaturity in verse three."For you are still of the flesh.For while there is jealousy and strife among you,are you not of the fleshand behaving only in a human way?"Childish thinking always leads to childish behavior.And the childishness of the Corinthianscan be summed up in two words, jealousy and strife.Jealousy is a serious case of dissatisfactionwith what God has given to you.You deserve more.You deserve better.You deserve whatever you want.When you are jealous of what someone else has,you cannot be content with what you have.If you are jealous of someone else's success,you cannot celebrate that person's success.Strife is needless conflict.Strife leads to dumb divisionthat can and should be avoided.Jealousy is an attitude,and strife is the aftermath.Jealousy is the root,and strife is the result.No one needs to teach you how to be jealous.No one needs to show you how to create strife.These sins are inherent within each and every one of us.If you don't believe me,just go back to Harvest Academy for a few minutes.You will see jealousy and strife soonerrather than later.Why does Suzy have that toy in her eye?I hate Tommy and Joey because they never let me play with them.I'm not inviting Ruthie to my birthday partybecause she didn't invite Betty to hers.You may laugh at that,but the adults in the church are not much better than the kids, are they?Listen, you can be jealous.You.Maybe you are envious of someone else in this room.That person who has the marriage that you want.That parent who has more under control kids than you do.That person who seems to be more talented than you.You should be celebrating and rejoicingand God's good gifts to that brother or sister,but instead you resent them.And you want them to be knocked down a few pegs to feel how you feel.You can be jealous.You can cause strife and factions in the church.You have a serious bone to pick with the leadership at Harvest.Instead of coming to the elders directly, you start whispering.You start spreading misinformation.You start spreading rumors.You are offended by someone else.Instead of going to that person directly,you go to other people to recruit them to your side.And you may say, "Oh, I'm just doing this to warn people."No, you're not.You're doing this to the other people who will like you more than that person.Just be honest about it.Maybe you enjoy getting into fights.You enjoy making a big deal out of nothing.You lace up your boxing gloves and get into worthless, pointless battles with people.Are you jealous right now?Are you causing strife right now?If you are jealous, if you are stirring up trouble,you're just acting like an adult babyand not a mature son or daughter of God.If you are stirring up trouble, if you have sinned against someone else,it's time to swallow your pride and admit what you've done.Kids sweep things under the rug and ignore it.Adults expose sin and confess it.It's time to grow up because your childish behavior hurts others,especially the people you love.It's time to grow up.Reason number three, because your childish favoritism highlights man and not God.Because your childish favoritism highlights man and not God.Jealousy and strife at Corinth played out in a specific way,and it led to people playing favorites with specific leaders.Let's see what Paul has to say about this in verse 4.For when one says, "I follow Paul,"and another, "I follow Apollos," are you not being merely human?Pastor Jeff preached on this favoritism controversy a few weeks ago,but Paul talks about it again, so what are we going to do?We're going to talk about it again.Paul was the one who planted the Corinthian church during his second missionary journey.And he was there for about a year and a half ministering, preaching, pastoring.And some people had a soft spot for Paul.They were nostalgic for him because he was the one who led them to Christ.After Paul left, Apollos comes to town, and he's a much better speaker,a much more dynamic preacher, so many people prefer Apollos.And this history of favoritism led to both men having their own personal fan clubs,even though both men do not want their own personal fan clubs.In modern day terms, there is a Paul fan page on Facebook,and there's an opposing Apollos fan page on Facebook.There are trading cards with these men's faces and pastoral stats.There are YouTube channels that highlight and spell out their sermons on why they're so great.But Paul says this kind of favoritism is childish.It is not the way of heaven. It is the way of this world.He's saying, "If you say I follow Paul, or I follow Apollos, grow up.You're acting like a child. You need to cut it out."And Paul gives a reason why he and Apollos are not worthy of these cult followings in verse 5.What then is Apollos? What is Paul?Servants through whom you believed as the Lord assigned to each.Paul and Apollos are not celebrities. They're not superstars.They're not mega church pastors. Who are they according to this verse?Servants.This word can also be translated as table waiters.Waiters do not cook the food. They simply deliver the food.Busboys simply clean up.Paul and Apollos are just lowly busboys in God's restaurant.Last time I checked, there are no busboy enthusiasts.There are no busboy trading cards. There are no busboy YouTube channels.When was the last time you had a restaurant and thought to yourself,"Man, this table is spotless. I don't even need a plate. I can just eat right off of it.I need to go find the busboy and congratulate him."Has that ever happened to you?Paul is saying, "I'm just a busboy. I'm not worthy of anything that you want to give me."He's knocking himself off the pedestal that the Corinthians have put him on.He's demystifying Apollos and putting him in his place too.They are just servants of the Lord. They are servants of the Corinthian church.But Paul isn't done lowering himself yet.He and Apollos are not just busboys.They are also farm hands, according to verses 6 and 7."I planted Apollos watered, but God gave the growth."So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God gives the growth.I've never farmed before.I've never even kept a garden before in my entire life.The last time I can remember planting a seed was in first grade with that cup on the window sill,that cup of dirt.I'm not a farmer, but I do know a farmer in our congregation.I spoke to Jesse Hogan last week and I asked him,"How much credit can you take for a good harvester crop?"Do you want to know what farmer Jesse said?None.All I can do is plant, pray for good weather, and trust that God will bring the growth.Trust the results to God.Jesse is a successful farmer because he understands his place in the process.He entrusts the results to God.He knows his limitations.Paul is successful as a pastor, as an evangelist, as a church planner,because he knows his place in the process.He trusts the results to God.Paul knows his limitations.Paul is saying, "I planted the church in Corinth."Paul has watered it with his faithful preaching,but who alone gets the credit?Who alone gets the glory for the growth?God and God alone.Once again, Paul and Paulos are nothing special.They are just farmhands who plant and water the seeds of the gospel.That's it.Paul goes on to give you another reason why he and Paulos shouldn't be pitted against each otherin verse 8."He who plants and he who waters are one,and each will receive his wages according to his labor."There is no reason for Paul and Paulos to competebecause they are on the same team.They are one.I've already admitted that I'm not a farmer,but I may be a better farmer than I am an athlete.Some of you were laughing too hard at that.But I did play basketball from sixth to twelfth grade,and I can remember distinct games where every man in our team was out for himself.Every man was trying to show off.Every man was trying to show everyone how great he was.And that never led to victory because we forgot that we were one.We forgot that we were on the same team.I can also remember other games when we did come together as a cohesive whole.Everyone wasn't trying to win for himself, trying to win for the entire team.In those moments, we were one.We were on the same team, which often led to victory.We are on the same team at Harvest Bible Chapel.We should be pulling together to be one in the Lord,rather than pulling apart to try and be special on our own.On my own, I am a zero.On your own, you are a zero, but together we are one.Our strength comes from our unity.Recently, a member of our church paid the highest compliment to this churchthat made my entire year.She said, "To be honest, I don't really care who preaches on a Sunday morning,because I know, I trust that everyone who preaches at Harvestwill be faithful to God's Word."That is the goal.That woman gets it.That is what Paul is talking about in this verse.It's not about the servant.It's about the one we serve.It's not about the bus boy.It's about the one who owns all things.It is not about the farmhand.It's about the only one who gives the growth.Playing favorites in the church is stupid.It is immature.It is childish foolishness to try to figure out who's the bestand who's the most important.We all have a role to play.No one's gifting or role is more important than another.And according to Paul, each worker will be paid by God Himself,and God never stiffs His employees.He always gives infinitely satisfying rewards.So please don't try to reward yourselfby seeking after the affirmation and praise of others.Wait diligently for the rewards of God,because they are coming.Adult babies live for the moment,but godly servants live for the long haul.It's time to grow up and start highlighting God and not man.It's time to grow up.Final reason, because your childish selfishness hides your identity.Because your childish selfishness hides your identity.Let's wrap up with verse 9."For we are God's fellow workers.You are God's field, God's building.I truly enjoy partnering with all of my coworkers,Missy, Gillian, Ashley, Pastor Rich, Pastor Jeff.I love all my coworkers,but do you know which coworker I enjoy working with the most?God.Pastor Jeff is a great boss,but do you know who's an even greater boss?The Lord.So many pastors fall into sinand disqualify themselves from ministrybecause their childish selfishness hides their identity.They think they're the ones making things happen.They think that the church growth is happening because of them.They're in charge. They're running the show.And they end up becoming bullies.They end up becoming tyrants.They forget they work with and for the God of the universe.Those pastors did not shed their own bloodon the cross for the members of their church.Their churches do not belong to them.Their churches belong to Christ.You do not belong to me.You do not belong to Justin Cady, Brian Beehe, Pastor Rich,or even Pastor Jeff.If you have trusted in Christ, you belong to Him.He's the one who shed his blood for you.He is the one who died for you.You are God's field.You are God's building.That is who you are.Do not let your childish selfishness hide your identity any longer.Do not try to find your identityin what the world says to find it in.The world will tell youthat you are the maker of your own meaning.Your worth is found in what you achieve.But that is not what Paul is saying in this verse.You are not a precious snowflakewhose every one preference should be met.Your story is not the main event of this world.You are not the point of anything.You are just a small part of the field that God is cultivating.You are just a single brickin the beautiful structure that God is building.You are a part of the church of Jesus Christwhich will never ever pass away.It's time to grow upand stop believing that life is all about youbecause it's not.It's about the Lordwho will do great things in and through you.It's time to grow upand start remembering who you areand whose you are.Some of you in this room do not belong to Christ.You are not even an infant in Christbecause you have not been born again.You are not a part of God's field.You are not a part of God's building.You are just a lonely seed.You are just a discarded brick.But your identity will change in an instantif you give your life to Jesus.If you trust in Him as your Saviorwho died on the cross for your sins.If you trust in Him as the Lord of your lifewho has every right to tell you what to do.If you place your faith and trust in Christ,you will be adopted into His family.You will be planted into God's field.You will be slid into the perfect spot in this churchthat is reserved just for you.You will be placed on the path to mature adulthood in Christ.The biggest temptation for a sermon like thisis to feel the sting of conviction in the momentand then do nothing with that conviction once you get home.But do you know what's the most childish thing of all?Knowing that something needs to changeand then doing nothing about it.Please do not fall into that childish temptation.Choose to put away your childish thinking.Choose to put away your childish behavior.Choose to put away your childish favoritism.Choose to put away your childish selfishness.Brothers and sisters, it's time to mature.It's time to grow up.But you can't grow up on your own, can you?You need God's helpbecause He is the expert on growth, not you.There are still two blanks left on your sheet that you need to fill in.These are a prayer to the Lord.God, help me to grow up.Today I need to stop blank and start blank.I have no idea what you need to fill in those blanks with, but you do.And so is God.Maybe it's God, help me to grow up today and He has stopped making excusesand start reading my Bible every morning at 7 a.m.Maybe it's God, help me to grow up today.I need to stop being jealous of so-and-so, it's small groupand start being content with what you have given me.It could be God, help me to grow up todayor maybe God, help me to grow up today.I need to stop sitting on the church sidelinesand start serving at harvest today.Don't be vague because vague goals lead disappointing results.Be practical, be specific,because that will lead to encouraging results.Take a few minutes to fill in those blanks.Take a few moments to go to the Lord, to confess sin,to ask for His help.Ask Him to empower you to change.Ask for His help so that you can be empowered.Take steps to grow up.Fill in those blanks and spend some time in the Lord with prayer.Father, I thank you for your immense patience with us.I know as a father I can be so impatient with my children at times,but Lord, you are so long suffering.But all of us in this room can be childish.All of us in this room can be immatureor may today be a brand new day of transformation.May today be a day where a first step is taken,where growth happens by your grace and by the power of your spirit.Lord, may we not just be convicted in this moment,be convicted the rest of today, the rest this weekand the rest of our lives seek after you and your Word,to pursue after the unity of the churchand to fit into our exact spot in the church.Lord, I thank you for what your Holy Spirit has done this morningand I thank you in advance for what He will do.I ask all these things in Jesus' name, amen.
We're in Romans chapter 6 today. The Apostle Paul has assumed that all his readers had already died! This is the subject of today's sermon.
By Robin S Webber - Exactly what is hope? The Apostle Paul speaks of the "Big 3" in 1 Corinthians 13:13--Faith, Hope, and Love, but exactly what is hope? Do you hope you have hope? Has your hope diminished because of life's circumstances. Is hope a matter of the Spirit that is boxed in or does it grow under pressure
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/
Whenyou read the Old Testament, it mainly is about the covenant promises and thework of God amongst the Jewish nation. The Jewish nation was called of God, setapart for Him and by Him for a specific purpose. That purpose was to make knownto the world that you can know God, the true and the living God, the creatorGod, the only God. And the only way you can know and experience Him is byfaith. That's what the life of Abraham teaches us as you study both the Old andthe New Testament. He not only is the father of the Jewish nation he is thefather of the faithful. This includes both Jew and Gentile who come toexperience God by faith. (Read Romans 4 and Galatians 3). Theonly way we can learn about God, that we can know God, that we can begin tounderstand and comprehend God, is by faith. The writer of Hebrews made thisclear in Hebrews 11.TheJewish nation was chosen to be an example, to be an illustration, to be atestimony to the world that there is a creator God that wants us to know Him.God revealed Himself to Abraham and the Jews in various ways. As the people ofGod they gave us His written revelation, the Word of God, the Bible, God's holyinspired word and they also give us the Savior, Jesus Christ the Messiah. Godhad this specific purpose for them. But as you know, as you study both the Old and New Testament and Jewish history, they failmiserably and rejected Jesus. But God already in eternity past had anotherplan. That plan was the church, the called out assembly, the body of JesusChrist. Inthe Old Testament, the church was a mystery, a sacred mystery. It was not knownbefore. That's why Paul was writing here in these verses. In verse 5 he writes:"Which in other ages, was not made known to the sons of men, as it has nowbeen revealed by the spirit to His holy apostles and prophets." Now, myfriend, we've got to understand something. You know, it's been 2,000 yearssince the Apostle Paul was writing to this church at Ephesus and explaining tothem how as Gentiles, they are now in the body of Christ. They now can bereconciled to the Jewish people and be partaker of the promises with them. Thatwas a new thing, a brand new thing. Nowtoday, after 2,000 years of history, we have churches on every corner inAmerica, churches all over the world, a church everywhere. And I'm afraid thatwe take the church for granted. You can go down any Sunday morning in Americaand walk into a church building and become a member of that church by goingforward professing Christ as your Savior, following the Lord in believer'sbaptism and you're part of that church. We take it for granted that we can be apart of the body of Christ. NowPaul is telling the folks there at Ephesus, this is a mystery. It's now beingrevealed. So it was important to Paul because he knew he was a steward of thismystery. That was the dispensationgiven to him, the stewardship given to him to make sure that the body ofbelievers, the Gentiles and the Jews alike knew that anyone could be a part ofthe body of Jesus Christ by faith through the cross, by faith in Hisresurrection, by faith. Todayyou and I become a part of the body of Christ, and we can now exercisestewardship and ministry and have the hope and the peace and the joy that comesfrom belonging to the body of Christ and being a part of that fellowship ofbelievers. How wonderful is that? I'm telling you, it's awesome. It is importantthat you also understand that the church, the body of Christ is so very special,just like His body was special on earth physically when He was here. Jesus wentto heaven in that body, but today He gave us the opportunity to be a member ofHis body the church. He is the head we're the members, and we're members one ofanother. We have different functions and activities and gifts in the church,but we belong to His church. Myfriend, what a great privilege! Don't take it for granted!!!!
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/
Presented by Julie Busteed Humility may not be the first trait that comes to your mind as an essential element in healthy relationships. That's what I will look at today as we continue to seek to grow healthy relationships. The first thing that comes to mind when I hear the word humility is I need to have a low opinion of myself. But that's not correct. It's about being interested in others. Serving others. Yes, modesty is part of humility, but it's not being down on yourself. It's putting others first. Paul exhorts the Philippians and us to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others (Philippians 2:3-4). Becky Harling, author of Cultivating Deeper Connections in a Lonely World, writes humble people come in curious to the conversation, and this curiosity is the superpower of connections! They listen and ask questions. They don't come in like the expert. I love that! We can have this superpower if we are simply interested and curious. And that's what I think the Apostle Paul is talking about—to look not to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Humility also is shown by just being kind, lending a hand, helping a coworker. My friend Heather recently showed a beautiful example of humility. She had her day carefully planned with a full to-do list, but when a friend reached out to spend time together, she chose to set her plans aside. It wasn't what she had intended for the day, and honestly, it wasn't what she felt like doing at the moment—but she recognized her friend needed someone to listen. What makes this even more meaningful is this friendship isn't always easy or comfortable. Yet that very morning, Heather “happened” to read Proverbs 3:27–28. Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Come back tomorrow and I'll give it to you'—when you already have it with you (Proverbs 3:27–28). Those verses were a timely reminder that God sometimes calls us to act in the moment—to give of ourselves, our time, or our attention—when it's within our power to do so. Heather reflected the heart of Christ that day by choosing relationship over routine, allowing herself to be “interrupted” in order to show love and kindness right when it was needed most. I pray you and I will be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love (Ephesians 4:2).
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/
Welcome to this episode of the “Prison Pulpit”. I'm your China travel guide, Missionary Ben, recording today from Ephesus in Turkey! Follow me on X (@chinaadventures) where I share daily reminders to pray for China.You can also email me anytime @ bfwesten at gmail dot com. Last but not least, to learn more about our strategic prayer and missions projects or to get one of my missionary biographies, visit PrayGiveGo.us! Why the Prison Pulpit? The goal is to remind everyone to pray for persecuted believers as Hebrews 13:3 teaches us to do (“Remember those who are in prison, as bound with them”). I’ve done this by sharing (imprisoned) Pastor Wang Yi’s writings in China. But since we have nothing of his written from WITHIN prison walls, I’ve turned to other persecuted ministers who have gone before, such as Richard Wurmbrand, to give us a voice, or reminders, or sermons, literally from prison. But Pastor Wang Yi was the reason why I started the Prison Pulpit series to begin with. And in December, as the anniversary of his arrest approaches, we will go back over much of what was written during that tumultuous time in late 2018. But since I’m literally in Ephesus right now, I want us to hear from another prison pulpit, specifically the words of the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Ephesians: Eph 3:14-20: For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, 16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith--that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Eph 6:18-20: praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. Ejected from Egypt Today I also want to continue meditating on what I experienced in Egypt this past weekend. My 10+ hour ordeal happened in 7 stages (which included much standing, sitting, drinking (h20), and smoking (them): Detained at Customs for backpack search and (relaxed) interrogation. Hopeful. (Midnight-2am) “Led” through the creepy corridors of the airport, then left in the hallway. Flight booked. (2-3am) Moved to the office of a “senior” officer doing unrelated paperwork. Awaiting deportation (3-4am) Led by multiple new officers through the airport to the departure gate. Waiting. Waiting. (4-5am) Board flight (passport to staff), told I’d be met by security in Istanbul. Worried. In the air. (5-9am) Last to deplane. Escorted to terminal by security. Told to wait. Still worried what’s next. (9-10am) Told that they were waiting for more info from Egypt (yikes), but plans changed. Free! (1015am) Follow China Compass Subscribe to China Compass wherever you get your podcasts. Follow me on X (@chinaadventures), check out our website (PrayGiveGo.us) and email anytime @ (bfwesten at gmail dot com). Hebrews 13:3!
It's Wednesday, November 5th, 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 Vulnerable Asian and African girls kidnapped, abused, converted to Islam Christian women and girls are easy targets for persecution in South Asian and African nations. Last Tuesday, a panel at the World Evangelical Alliance's 14th General Assembly shared details. For example, girls in Nigeria, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are often kidnapped, abused, and forced to convert to Islam. Even if they escape, they often face rejection after returning to their families, communities, or churches. The panel called for better care for the women and girls subjected to such persecution. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” Finnish stateswoman on trial again for affirming Biblical sexuality Speaking of persecuted women, a Christian woman in Finland is on trial for posting online about her biblical views on marriage and sexuality. Last Thursday, the country's Supreme Court heard the case of Päivi Räsänen, a 65-year-old Finnish Member of Parliament. The state prosecution of her religious expression continues despite lower courts clearing her of wrongdoing. Listen to her recent comments to CitizenGo. RÄSÄNEN: “This has been my calling. This has been some kind of privilege, to defend these very crucial values, to defend the freedom of speech and freedom of faith, because that is what we need just now. And also to bring the teachings of the Bible in public.” Lutheran Bishop Juhana Pohjola is also on trial in the case. He said, “I think it is important that Christians continue to be able to defend Christian marriage and the Christian view of humanity without fear.” In 2 Thessalonians 1:8, the Apostle Paul wrote “Therefore, do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner, but share with me in the sufferings for the Gospel according to the power of God.” 40 Days for Life has saved 25,000 babies from abortion 40 Days for Life completed its latest campaign on Sunday. Pro-lifers mobilized for vigils in 671 cities worldwide for the last 40 days. Shawn Carney, president of the pro-life group, said, “Thanks to your prayers and God's generosity, we continue to receive reports of babies who were scheduled to be aborted--but are instead alive and well!” In some cities, vigils are continuing year-round through the 40 Days for Life 365 initiative. Since 2007, 40 Days for Life has saved over 25,000 babies from abortion. Former Vice President Dick Cheney died In the United States, former Vice President Dick Cheney died on Monday at the age of 84. His family said in a statement that he died from complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease. The statement noted, “Dick Cheney was a great and good man who taught his children and grandchildren to love our country, and to live lives of courage, honor, love, kindness, and fly fishing.” Sadly, Cheney supported homosexual faux marriage because his daughter, Mary Cheney, married her lesbian lover, Heather Poe. Cheney was known as one of the most influential vice presidents in U.S. history. He served as vice president under both terms of President George W. Bush. He was a key yet controversial leader in the “War on Terror” following the 9/11 terrorists attacks. Cheney was a member of the United Methodist Church. He was also the first Methodist vice president to serve under a Methodist president. U.S. Episcopal Church shrinking for anti-Biblical stances The U.S. Episcopal Church released its 2024 Parochial Report last month. And it's not good news. Not surprisingly, the mainline Protestant denomination reported fewer baptisms and a drop in the total number of parishes -- no doubt the result of the Episcopal Church's rejection of Biblical authority and an embrace of sodomy and baby killing through abortion. Worship attendance did increase last year, but is still down compared to a decade ago. At its rate of decline, the denomination could have no Sunday attendance in 30 years. Deuteronomy 4:2 warns, “Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the Lord your God that I give you.” Slight decrease in U.S. obesity rate And finally, Gallup reports obesity rates are declining in the U.S. The adult obesity rate stands at 37% this year. That's down from a high of 39.9% in 2022 but up from 25.5% in 2008. While obesity rates have declined recently, diagnoses of diabetes have reached an all-time high of 13.8%. That's up slightly from 10.6% in 2008. The use of weight loss injectable drugs has risen sharply over the past year. The popularity of these weight loss drugs is connected with lower obesity rates but has not lessened the rate of diabetes diagnoses. Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, November 5th, 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: November 24, 2024Selected 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
Have you ever submitted a question to the Misquoting Jesus podcast? Ever heard the answer? Today, Bart and I are going to be doing an entire episode covering listeners questions on the topic of the apostle Paul - keep listening, and we might get to yours!
© 2020-2025 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
