Podcasts about Aquilla

Join us this summer as we explore the lives of real people in the Bible, taking a closer look at their faith and failures and how their stories point us to the Gospel story and the real hope of Jesus. For this 11-week series, we'll get to hear from a diverse range of voices and perspectives. You're invited to join us!

SHOW NOTES To learn more about Brite Curriculum visit britecurriculum.com The post Preschool: Teaching Littles About Aquilla, Priscilla, and Apollos From Acts 18 (May 31) appeared first on Child Discipleship.

SHOW NOTES To learn more about Brite Curriculum visit britecurriculum.com The post Teaching Kids About Aquilla, Priscilla, and Apollos From Acts 18 (May 31) appeared first on Child Discipleship.

On the KMOJ Morning Show, Freddie Bell speaks with Debra Hurston and Aquilla Robinson about the mission of the Association for Black Economic Power (ABEP) and its work to expand financial access and build long-term wealth in underserved communities. They highlight the creation of Arise Community Credit Union, Minnesota's first Black-led community credit union, and explain how ABEP's approach focuses on sustainable, systems-level impact. The conversation explores why financial empowerment is especially critical right now and shares real-world examples of how their work is making a difference. They also preview their upcoming May 21 fundraising event, inviting the community to get involved, support the mission, and take part in an inclusive and engaging experience. 

Title: Unconditional Trust Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 FCF: We often struggle trusting God unconditionally. Prop: Because God's will for us is to trust Him unconditionally, we must trust His leadings regardless of our circumstances. Scripture Intro: LSB [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to 1 Thessalonians chapter 5. In a moment we'll read from the Legacy Standard Bible staring in verse 16. You can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. As we've pointed out, and as our sign out front has said and the sides for this series have shown – the first letter to the Thessalonians is tied together by the three cardinal Christian virtues of faith, love, and hope. In fact, we have seen Paul talk about all three of these virtues in various ways since the beginning of the book. And since he began chapter 4, he has analyzed faith, love, hope, then hope again, then back to love, and today he will get back one more time to their faith. Thoroughout the letter he has spoken about their work of faith and how their faith was not shaken even though they were afflicted. He talked about how the word of God is at work in them because they believe and are continuing to believe. He did say that their faith needs to be completed but as it is, they already have a faith that is working since they know and trust God's commands and walk in order to please Him. They do this because they know that setting aside His commands is not setting aside man's traditions… but God Himself. So today, Paul will do what he can to complete their faith. Paul will give them 8 more commands all designed to illustrate what trusting God, without condition, really looks like. Please stand with me to give honor to and focus on the Word of God as it is read. Invocation: Faithful Father, You are worthy of our unconditional trust. You are all powerful. You are all knowing. You are all good. You are all loving. You are Holy. You are Just. You… are Sovereign. Because of who You are, we can and indeed we must trust You without reservation. But we are weak Lord. And our trust is feeble. We ask that You would use Your Word and Your Spirit's power to show us today how we can trust You. Teach us Lord from this, Your holy word. We pray this in Jesus', The Word's name… Amen. Transition: [Slide 2] “What is faith unless it is to believe what you do not see?” Augustine of Hippo “Belief is not faith without evidence but commitment without reservation.” Leighton Ford “Faith is an activity of the whole soul bringing into movement the intellect, the emotions, and the will, and anything less than this is not biblical faith.” Iain Inglis [Slide 3] “Faith is a living, daring confidence in God's grace. It is so sure and certain that a man could stake his life on it a thousand times.” Martin Luther “Faith, to put it simply, is the conviction that God does not tell lies.” Frank Retief “What is faith but obedience to the commands of Christ?” Salvianus “Faith is reason at rest in God.” C.H. Spurgeon “Faith is self-surrender to the great Physician leaving of our case in His hands. But it is also the taking of His prescriptions and the active following of His directions.” Augustus H. Strong These thoughts summarize what we will see today in the text of scripture. Let's look. I.) God's will for His people is to trust Him unconditionally, so we must always live in light of God's sovereignty. (16-18) a. [Slide 4] 16 - Rejoice always; i. Paul begins this next set of exhortations with three commands using 7 Greek words. ii. The first two words, are rejoice always. iii. Paul exhorts his readers, who are experiencing affliction from unbelievers around them, to rejoice. iv. What does it mean to rejoice? v. The word rejoice comes from the word for joy. It means to be glad, to be joyful. vi. Joy is one of those words that looking outside the scriptures won't actually help us understand it any better. vii. The Dictionary definition of the word is simply a feeling of great happiness or pleasure. 1. But when we pull such a definition back into the text, it is difficult to imagine that Paul would be commanding the Thessalonians to govern their own feelings to the extent that they are greatly happy…always. 2. Emotions are reactions and are rarely stable. For Paul to demand that people be emotionally, greatly happy all the time, seems a little farfetched. 3. It further disconnects us from clear teachings that tell us to mourn for our brothers and sisters who are hurting, and the example of Christ who wept at the death of His friend Lazarus. 4. Was Jesus greatly happy at this moment? Can you be happy and mourn at the same time? viii. But when we assess the greater context of the scriptures and note how biblical writers use the word joy, we come to a starkly different definition of the word entirely. ix. Biblical joy is gladness that transcends earthly circumstances, bad or good. To the extent that a believer can experience true joy even when they are unhappy. x. If I were to create a definition of my own based on the biblical data, it would be the following: 1. [Slide 5] Biblical joy is gladness and contentment rooted in a pure trust in God's sovereign hand to work all things for the good of the believer and His own glory. 2. Joy then is not an emotion at all. Rather it is a state of being that is rooted in trusting what God has promised. 3. Indeed, Paul lists joy as a fruit of the Spirit in the book of Galatians, indicating to us that joy actually comes from God and not from ourselves. xi. So having joy is part of our interior transformation as we are conformed to Christ. xii. When we insert this definition back into Paul's command here, we see that he commands them to rejoice always because he is confident that they are the elect of God. He saw the gospel come to them in power and he has heard of their example and their enduring faith. xiii. Therefore, to expect them to be joyful in every circumstance, is to expect them to live as though they are a true believer. xiv. Which brings us to the inescapable, albeit uncomfortable conclusion… xv. Real Christians are expected to rejoice always. xvi. To the extent that if a person claims to be a Christian and has lost their joy… we can't encourage them without also investigating whether or not they are true believers? xvii. Paul continues… b. [Slide 6] 17 - pray without ceasing; i. Though we translate this in three words, the Greek command is still only two. ii. We could translate it, “pray unceasingly” if we wanted to maintain the word count. iii. Just as joy is related to trusting God– so also is prayer. iv. Spending unending hours in prayer to a god you don't believe is able to do what you ask of him or is not good enough to give you what is best for you – would be a foolish activity for anyone. v. Old Testament prophets poke fun at pagan worshippers sending prayer toward their dead gods who cannot of their own power or will give anything to those who worship them. vi. And so, we must pray in faith, believing that God is good and rewards those who diligently seek Him. vii. Many people know this verse. It is only 3 words after all. viii. But I should point out that the word unceasingly can also be rendered incessantly or resolutely. ix. It is difficult to know whether Paul intends that they should be frequently praying or if they should be fervently praying, or both. x. Logic tells us that if we were constantly praying it may be difficult for us to accomplish much else. xi. But since I don't think that is a real concern for many in this room – I cannot dismiss the likelihood that Paul does refer to frequency of prayer here. xii. Generally speaking, the more you trust someone, the more you speak to them. And with the God of the Universe – the more you trust Him, not only the more you pray, but even the content of your prayers encompasses every area of life. Not simply praying for big wants – but even praying to praise Him. To thank Him. To commune with Him. xiii. Therefore, I must conclude that both frequency and fervency are validated in the scriptures. We must be a people of prayer. xiv. But I would wager that this is, more than likely, a glaring deficiency in most of the people in this room today. xv. We ought to pray first and act second. But so often we act first… and most of the time our first action is to worry and fret. And then down the line…maybe… and occasionally we also pray. xvi. One more exhortation before Paul breaks to give us a doctrinal foundation for them… c. [Slide 7] 18 - in everything give thanks, i. Three words in Greek. ii. So, we must rejoice always, pray always, and certainly we must also always be giving thanks. iii. If faith is a cardinal Christian virtue, then thankfulness is a necessary outcome for all who have faith. iv. How can you believe all that is reported to us in the gospel and the scriptures, how can you believe all that God says about Himself and us in His Word, how could anyone truly trust God and not be thankful? v. Yet some of the most complaining, grumbling, dissatisfied people I know… go to churches every Sunday and call themselves Christians. vi. If we truly trust God – there is never a reason to be ungrateful. Why? vii. Because we are always NOT getting what we deserve! ALWAYS! viii. Therefore, not only must faith produce perpetual rejoicing and incessant prayer… it must also produce unconditional thanksgiving. That in all states we find ourselves in – we are thankful to God for His promises that all things work together for good to those who love Him. ix. Finally, Paul undergirds all these exhortations with truth… d. [Slide 8] for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. i. Faith is not believing a list of facts. ii. Faith is trusting God so much that His will for you becomes reality. iii. God's will for His people – those who truly believe – is to be a people who always rejoice, incessantly pray, and are giving thanks in all circumstances. iv. But notice that none of this would be possible if we were not… in Christ. v. How are we in Christ? vi. By Faith alone we are united to Christ. vii. If we believe, we work out our faith in fear and trembling knowing that God provides the will and the power to do what He desires of us. e. [Slide 9] Summary of the Point: Once again, we are forced to look at the broader context to find the doctrinal foundation upon which Paul places these three commands. He hasn't left us rudderless though. He clearly states that God's will for those in Christ Jesus are to do these three things. This certainly points to the fact that these Thessalonians are trusting God's commands and desirous to do as He wills for them, which is nothing more than the working out of genuine saving faith. God's will of course, is for His children to trust Him unconditionally. And Paul points out three commands that apply that truth in every situation we face in life. We must rejoice, pray, and give thanks, always. Our circumstances do not determine how we live… Because our God is the same regardless of our circumstances. Our faith is not placed on our circumstances… It is only in God and His Word. May God's word be true and all else be a liar. Transition: [Slide 10 (blank)] But Paul is not done issuing commands. He has given three which consider what it means to trust God unconditionally in light of all of life's circumstances. Paul will now follow up with 5 more commands, still considering how we must trust God unconditionally, but with a different emphasis. Let's look. II.) God's will for His people is to trust Him unconditionally, so we must believe and obey His instruction. (19-22) a. [Slide 11] 19 - Do not quench the Spirit; i. Immediately we are struck with a different formation of the commands given. ii. Not two words but four in the Greek. And one of them… is “not”. iii. So, this is not a command to do something, it is a command to not do something. iv. Some scholars insist that Paul is saying to stop doing this… but that force is not necessary here. We need not assume that this is happening in the Thessalonian church. It is possible – but it could just as easily be a warning ahead of this temptation. v. We also see a slight change in the nature of the command. vi. Paul is not pointing to characteristics or attributes that should be in a believer and how they should conduct themselves. vii. Now he seems to be pointing to something else entirely. viii. But the doctrinal underpinnings are still the same. ix. Because they are working out their faith – because they trust the Lord, because they are looking at His commands and doing them – which is what genuine faith is – there are at least two things that they must not do. x. First, they must not quench the Spirit. xi. Spirit here, because it is preceded by the article, seems to indicate that this is talking about the Third person of the Godhead. xii. If he were talking about the inner man, we might expect Paul to say do not quench your spirit. Instead, he says, the Spirit. xiii. To quench is literally to extinguish, to stifle, as if putting out a flame. xiv. But adding up the definitions of these words does not actually help us to arrive directly at what Paul means. xv. What does it mean to quench the Spirit? xvi. Let me tell you that scholars are quite divided over this. xvii. Unfortunately, we do not have the time to go into all of the options, so let me just tell you what I think quench the Spirit means and if you really want to know the other options, you can join us on Thursday night and we can discuss all the other available options. 1. Quenching of the Spirit is the ignoring or refusing to listen to the Spirit's leading. a. The Spirit primarily leads us through the Word of God. b. The Spirit also leads us through the wise counsel of other believers. c. The Spirit also leads us through providence and even our own desires. 2. So, to stifle the Spirit would be to ignore or refuse His leading upon our lives. 3. What are some of the things the Spirit does to lead or guide us? a. The Spirit illuminates the scriptures to us. Which are able to make us wise and rebuke, reprove, correct, and instruct us in righteousness so that we are equipped for every good work. (1 Cor 2:14; 2 Tim 3:15-17) b. The Spirit convicts us of sin. (John 16:8) c. The Spirit guides us to all truth and reminds us of what the Lord Jesus taught. (John 6:13) d. The Spirit also gave visions and leadings and directions to the apostles throughout the book of Acts. 4. What are some examples of quenching the Spirit? a. Walking away from the study of the scripture and determining not to believe or do what the Spirit has clearly revealed. b. Ignoring counsel from various spiritually mature believers who are saying essentially the same thing – so that you can do what you want. c. Ignoring or refusing subtle impulses to do good and God honoring things. d. While it may be true that not all voices that whisper to you are God's Spirit… i. Certainly, a demon or your flesh would not advise you to share the gospel with someone on the side of the road, right? ii. Certainly, a demon or your flesh would not advise you to help a widow or orphan in their distress, right? iii. Certainly, a demon or your flesh is not whispering for you to drop everything and pray for someone, right? e. [Slide 12] We must listen closely and obey the Spirit's leading in our lives. Again, this happens PRIMARILY through His illuminating the scriptures to us. xviii. A person who trusts God unconditionally will listen for and obey the leading and direction of the Spirit on their lives. xix. This command then, is generally pointing to the Spirit's leading… but then Paul gets specific. b. [Slide 13] 20 - do not despise prophecies, i. This point then, is actually a subpoint of what it means not to quench the Spirit. Why? ii. One way that the Spirit clearly leads us is through the preached Word of God. iii. Before we go on to talk about what this means, we need to go down a rather large rabbit trail in order to address how another branch of Christendom misapplies this command. iv. Some in the charismatic movement have used this verse to legitimize and even push back against those who would be critical of their claim at having received new revelation from God. v. I think a fair treatment of this text actually does lend itself to their interpretation. Now before you throw tomatoes or burn me at the stake let me explain. 1. Paul wrote this in the early AD 50s. 2. The New Testament canon is not complete yet. 3. In fact, the only books written up to this point are James and Galatians. That's it. 4. For the next 40 years, the New Testament will continue to be written by Paul himself along with Luke, Matthew, Mark, John, James, an unknown writer of Hebrews, Peter and Jude. vi. So, Paul telling the Thessalonians not to despise prophesies is absolutely telling them not to despise God's Word coming in new revelation both concerning what has already been written and what has yet to come. vii. But there are two pieces of information that cut against the Charismatic's claim that this verse should prevent people from despising their prophesies. 1. First, the list of those who had yet to write their books in the New Testament, to which Paul is referring, is a rather elite list made up of either apostles or those who are intimately connected to the apostles. a. This boils down to how the church is apostolic. b. The Nicaean creed states that there is one holy catholic and apostolic church. c. As we've stated before, catholic simply means universal and is not actually referring to the denomination of Roman Catholicism. d. But some denominations believe that for this creed to be true there must be a succession of apostleship. e. Meaning that when one apostle dies, another must take their place. f. And the church must continue to submit to the teachings of that apostle as if they were teachings from Christ Himself. g. However, this view is wrong on every point. h. It is not true that the creed insists this be so, nor is it true that the scriptures teach that there is a succession of the apostleship, nor is it true that what the apostles taught ought to be unconditionally accepted as Jesus' words. i. The creed merely insists that the church is apostolic. Meaning it is formed upon the teachings of the apostles. This actually cuts against the succession of apostleship and new revelation since the creed implies that this teaching is already established and set by the time of the creed's writing. ii. As for apostolic succession, when Judas Iscariot was being replaced, there were some key qualifications that they looked for in his replacement. First, that they were a follower of Christ and second that they were able to bear witness to the risen Christ having seen Him after His resurrection. 1. Some might say, “yes but Paul never saw the risen Christ except in a vision, and James and Barnabas were never commissioned by Jesus yet they inherited the title, apostle.” 2. This is actually proving my point. What about Luke, Stephen, Apollos, Pricilla, Aquilla, Phillip, Mark, Timothy, Titus, or any number of other named and influential people in the New Testament that are NOT given the title apostle? 3. And where do the scriptures indicate to us that Paul, James, and Barnabas replaced dead members of the original 12? 4. The fact of the matter is – that the scriptures do not indicate that to us at all. 5. Clearly apostleship was something only gifted to a select few for a specific purpose. 6. Meaning what? 7. There are no apostles today nor was it ever God's intention to continue the apostolic office. 8. There is no one alive that we must listen to as if the very words they spoke were directly from God. 9. Instead, the bible becomes our final authority. viii. So that is the first item that the Charismatics must square with if they are to use this verse… ix. So, what does this command mean for us if we have no new revelation coming to us? x. Well, prophesy does not ONLY include the prediction of the future or new revelation. xi. All you have to do is go back to the Old Testament and read two or three of the minor prophets. Eventually you come to realize that they not only say similar things, but that most of what they are saying is referring back to what God has already said. xii. So just like walking away from the study of the scriptures, ignoring what the Spirit revealed, would be quenching the Spirit so also walking out of a sermon dismantling everything that was said and ignoring or refusing to obey what is clearly from God… is despising prophesy. xiii. Those who truly trust the Lord listen to the Spirit and also those whom God has gifted and anointed to preach His Word. xiv. But I said before that there are two pieces of information that cut against the Charismatics' claim, and that even the apostles did not expect people to unconditionally believe what they taught as Jesus' words. Let me prove this by going to verse 21. c. [Slide 13] 21 - but examine all things; i. Even Paul himself did not expect unconditional trust in what he preached to everyone. ii. When the Bereans took what he said and sought the scriptures to test it – they were not rebuked for their action. iii. Indeed, in Galatians Paul concedes that even if he would come and teach a different gospel, that they should not listen to him. iv. So, the apostles did not lean on their own authority or revelation but only on what Christ had given. v. And to that end – all teaching and all leadings must be examined. They must be tested. vi. When you study the scriptures… do not lean on your own understanding. vii. Every week I test what I think the text says against what Christians have thought the text said for the last 2000 years. And you know what sometimes, even in this sermon… I had to alter what I think. Why? Because no one else thinks it. viii. This isn't an echo chamber – this is preserving the doctrines that have been handed down to us from Christ to His apostles and now to us by God's preserved Word. ix. We must strive to examine all teachings and leadings. x. And therefore, we are right to look suspiciously on those who claim to have a new Word from the Lord. Not just because we believe that doesn't happen… but also because it is right to examine everything that is said. xi. Then what do we do with them? d. [Slide 14] hold fast to that which is good; i. If they are good teachings… if they conform to what Christ has said and what the whole of the scriptures reveal. ii. If the leadings are from the Spirit of God and directing us in paths of righteousness. iii. If the preacher expounds the text and reveals what God has clearly said… iv. Then we must hold fast to that which is good. v. We must cling tightly to what has been shown to be God's Word and the Spirit's clear leading. vi. But what if after examination, it doesn't seem to be what God has revealed? e. [Slide 15] 22 - abstain from every form of evil. i. We must cast aside everything that is evil. ii. If it is not of God – then who else could it be from? It is either of Satan or of men. iii. If it is of Satan, then it is evil. iv. If it is of men, then it could be amoral… or it could be evil. v. So, if we determine that what is being whispered in our ear, or preached from the pulpit, is contradictory to what God has taught in the scriptures… we must abstain or keep away from, be distant from it. vi. Flee it. vii. Now some translations say “abstain from every appearance of evil.” This is one potential meaning for this word. viii. The implication would be that everything that even appears to be evil should be fled from. ix. Preachers have, for years, bound the consciences of Christians by the misuse of this verse. x. You shouldn't have ear buds in because it might appear to others that you are listening to bad music. You must not go to the movie theater because it may appear that you are going to a trashy movie. You must not go into a bar or restaurant with a bar because it may appear that you are going to get drunk. xi. However, when we look at this in the context of this passage and the rest of the scriptures, we cannot allow this interpretation to stand. 1. Paul is clearly talking about prophesies and not Christian lifestyles. 2. So, if this word means appearances, a more accurate interpretation would be that when we cannot conclusively prove something is contradictory to God's Word, but it seems off or new or something we've never heard before… we should keep away from it until it becomes clearer. 3. This was essentially Gamaliel's wise advice concerning the Jesus sect. He said to the Sanhedrin that if it is from men, it will die out but if it is from God they don't want to be caught opposing it. So, he advocated releasing Peter and John and waiting to see what happens. 4. When a teaching seems odd but does not directly contradict the scriptures – we should keep away from it and wait it out. xii. However, there is good reason to NOT interpret the word as “appearances” and rather as “kinds” or “forms” as most modern translations render it. xiii. In this Paul is teaching that when we find a teaching that contradicts what God has already said, and is therefore evil, we must abstain from it or keep away from it – regardless of what form that evil teaching takes. xiv. Even evil teaching that does not directly impact the gospel of Jesus Christ but still contradicts what God has said… must be abstained from or fled. xv. One example of this might be the teaching that Christians are not permitted to marry. They must remain celibate. This does not directly impact the gospel – but it is still a doctrine that must be rejected and fled from. f. [Slide 16] Summary of the Point: Paul strives to help the Thessalonians work out their faith by completing what is lacking in it. They must trust God unconditionally and to do that they must believe and obey His instruction. We too must obey God's leadings and instructions through His Spirit. We must be sure not to stifle or despise what He teaches us and instead listen and obey. Certainly, we must test to make sure that these things are from God and if not, we must flee them. But all that is from God we must hear and heed. This is trusting God unconditionally. Conclusion: So CBC, what have we learned today that informs and corrects our beliefs and guides and shapes our lifestyles? Basics of Faith and Practice: [Slide 17] The Thessalonians have been elected by God and are working out their faith by knowing and trusting in God's commands to the extent that they walk in them. Therefore, Paul gives them 8 exhortations here to help them continue to trust God unconditionally. The first three deal with how they should carry themselves in all of life's circumstances. If they truly trust God unconditionally, they will always rejoice, they will incessantly pray, and they will continue to give thanks regardless of the circumstances. The next five commands reveal how they should trust God by hearing and heeding His instructions and leadings. They should not quench the Holy Spirit or despise prophesies but should examine all teachings and hold fast to that which is good and keep away from evil teachings in all forms. But how do these exhortations press against us today? How can we apply this specifically to us? 1.) [Slide 18] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” God's will for His people is to trust Him unconditionally. a. Why was man created? b. Why did God choose to save some and unite them with His Son? c. The bible isn't silent. Man in general was created to glorify God. And the elect of God are saved so that for all eternity we will glorify God for His grace. d. God is not only the creator, He is all powerful, He is all knowing, and He cannot be told no, His will cannot be thwarted. His decrees cannot be undone. e. What does that mean? f. God always gets what He has willed. g. This doesn't mean that God never allows men to disobey Him. But it does mean that somehow man's disobedience is actually part of God's will for the world. It contributes to His ultimate plan for His creation. h. Why am I pointing out all these things? i. Mostly to show that it is absolutely foolish for anyone who claims to be God's child, to doubt Him. j. God is wholly worthy of our absolute, explicit, and unconditional trust. What He has promised, He will do. What He has decreed, will be. k. Not one single molecule in all of creation is able to alter His decrees or His will. l. If you believe in this God, if you are united to Christ by faith – then nothing should be able to shake our trust in this God. m. But talk is cheap isn't it. And trust is not just lip-service. n. What does unconditional trust in God mean for our lives? 2.) [Slide 19] De-Exhortation: “What actions should we stop doing” or “What behaviors do we naturally practice that this passage tells us to stop doing?” We must stop allowing our circumstances to dictate how we live. a. Paul commands the Thessalonians to always rejoice, incessantly pray, and give thanks in all circumstances. b. In other words – what we are currently experiencing in life should have absolutely no bearing on how we respond. Why? c. Because we are not trusting in our circumstances going the way we want them to. We are trusting in a God who is in absolute control over all things, to the extent that even if everything around us is burning to the ground – we can rejoice, pray, and give thanks. Because God has not changed! d. But friends, people who call themselves Christians are often some of the most negative, joyless, anxious fearful, complaining, bunch of malcontents that you have ever met. e. God forbid this be true of us! Let it never be CBC! f. The first thing we must recognize regarding all of this, is that this is primarily a faith issue and NOT a behavioral issue. g. The sermon today is NOT telling you to buck up, say your prayers, and count your blessings. h. The sermon today is challenging you to get a better picture of the All powerful, all knowing, All good, all loving, Holy and Perfect God, who rules the whole of His creation, and who cannot be thwarted in anything He has determined to do, who cannot lie, and always keeps His promises. i. My friends – FAITH is the issue here. j. Why are you negative? Why are you joyless? Because you don't trust God. That why. k. Why are you anxious? Why do you fear? Because you don't trust God. l. Why do you complain? Why aren't you content? Because you don't trust God. m. Don't go home and try to be more joyful, or set your alarms to pray every hour, or build a habit of giving thanks WITHOUT FIRST… reflecting on the character and nature of this Holy God we serve! n. For when you get a good look at who God is… I'd wager that joy, prayer, and thanksgiving will be all the more achievable to us. For how can we not trust this God unconditionally? How can we not rejoice, when this God has got us? How can we not pray, when this God invites us into His throne room? How can we not be thankful, when this God has promised our good in all things? o. But trusting God is not just about our lifestyles – it is about listening for His leading… 3.) [Slide 20] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must listen for God's leading and instruction and obey it. a. Part of trusting God is hearing and heeding His direction upon our lives. b. Perhaps you've played the game where you and a partner work together to get through a maze. The catch? One of you is blindfolded, and the other is not. c. Listening to your partner's commands comes down to trust. Do you trust them to lead you safely through the maze. d. Although a crude example, this is a picture of what it means to trust God unconditionally. e. He has given us His Spirit. f. His work, among other things, is to guide and lead us into the paths of righteousness. He reveals the truth to us and convicts us of sin. He leads us and directs us to wisdom helping us to know God's will for our lives. g. We must let the Spirit burn in us. We must not douse Him by refusing to obey His leading. h. Instead, we must listen. We must heed what He shows us in God's Word, or through wise counsel, or through promptings. i. But one other aspect of this is that we must listen and heed the preaching of the Word of God too. The Spirit of God speaks through the preached word of God. Not that all that preacher says is the Spirit speaking – but that the Spirit actively impresses upon believer's hearts, God's guidance and conviction through the preached Word. j. So love preaching that hurts. Love preaching that is faithful in expositing the Word of God. Love preaching that pokes and pushes, that destroys and builds up, that edifies and encourages, that spurs and leads. k. Of course we must test everything. l. And in order to truly test everything – we must be well-versed in the teachings of the scriptures. We must be catechized. m. But if it is from God – cling to it like oxygen. n. If not, flee it like the plague. o. But again, all this comes down to whether or not you trust the Lord. p. Trust in God means listening for His leading and following it. q. If you don't… stop claiming you trust Him. 4.) [Slide 21] Comfort: “What comfort can we find here?” or “What peace does the Lord promise us in light of this passage of scripture?” God's Sovereignty is not just about salvation – it is the basis for our unconditional trust. a. I've said it before, and I'll say it again… the beauty of the doctrine of God's absolute sovereignty is not actually in the doctrines of salvation. b. I certainly hold to that and if you don't – you should keep searching the scriptures… because it is absolutely true. c. But the beauty of this doctrine is actually that is serves as the basis for our unconditional trust. d. If something can undo God's promises or His will… then we can never really trust God. e. God promises that all things work together for our good – but if someone uses their free will to sin, and God has no control over their free will, and that person takes something from us… how could we ever imagine that this is for our good? How could God guarantee that it is for our good if He couldn't stop them from doing it? f. But if God is in absolute control, even over the wills of men, and allowed this person to take something from us – we can still rest assured that God is working it out for our good. g. God's sovereignty over everything is the only sure foundation we have to trust Him without condition. h. In fact, if God isn't actually in control of everything – we probably shouldn't trust Him unconditionally. Because He is making promises He cannot keep. i. But take comfort in the fact that God is in absolute control. And thus, all His promises to us – are certain. 5.) [Slide 22] Evangelism: “What about this text points us to Jesus Christ, the gospel, and how we are restored?” The world is confused by people who are always joyful, always praying, always thankful, and always living their life by an ancient book that still speaks to them. But maybe you've moved from confusion… to longing. a. Let me tell you the world is not always rejoicing. There is so much depression and despair in the world, and I don't see it changing any time soon. b. We can't accuse the world of always praying either. Oh sure someone will comment, thoughts and prayers, but the dirty little secret is that most of the time their thoughts and prayers, occurred right then in the message they sent you. c. No, the world is generally an anxious place. Last year alone the world collectively spent around 23 billion dollars on anxiety and depression treatments. 5 billion of that was in the United States alone. d. It is clear that rather than rejoicing or praying to a God who is faithful – the world prefers to live in depression, fear and worry and pay people money to try to get them out. e. And no the world is anything but a thankful place. Everyone is complaining about something. Everyone is discontent about something. No one is happy with what they have. They are always looking for one more dollar. One more car. One more job. f. But perhaps you know Christians who seem like they are always rejoicing. Instead of worrying and fretting they are always praying and trusting the God they pray to. Perhaps you know a Christian who, rather than always looking for what more they can get, they are always thankful and content with what they have. g. To most people – that is really strange. Most people see someone like that as… slightly off their rocker. h. But maybe you are starting to see that this is what trusting in the Living God does to people? i. And maybe… you want that too. j. I'd love to introduce you to our God who is worthy of unconditional trust. Talk to me, or to another Elder before you leave today. Let me close with a Palm Sunday prayer by the church father Ephriam The Syrian. Praise him who comes, and is to come! Hosanna to the Father's mighty Son, here and in the highest. Praise him who once humbled himself in love to save our human race. Praise him for his Father's boundless grace! Who would not stop to see and wonder at how low your love bent down? A donkey once carried you, here on the earth. You, in your might and holiness! And in your pity for us, you serve and bless our fallen race. This day is joy-filled for all creation. My glad soul will sing a song of praise, and wave branches of thanksgiving that were once just palm branches, thrown in front of you by children. Now we own your hidden majesty, and we cry with those children: Hosanna to the Son of David! And in the name of this Son of David, God's people say… Amen! Benediction: May the Lord guide you always; May you be like a well-watered garden, Like a spring whose waters never fail. When you cry for help, may the Lord always say, 'Here am I' Until we meet again… go in peace.

Dick Griffith shares Monday's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. [Scripture: Romans 16]

Daily Dose of Hope December 16, 2025   Scripture – Acts 18   Prayer:  Dear Holy God, Your love is amazing.  Thank you for the way you care for us.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, help us focus on you...Lord Jesus, help us set aside every distraction and take this time to lean on you.  We want to hear your voice.  Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We are currently working our way through the book of Acts and today, we dive into Acts 18.   Here, we read more about Paul's missionary journey.  He heads to Corinth, where he almost throws in the towel when it came to preaching to the Jews.  But God encourages him and we continue to see his pattern of heading to the synagogue first, debating with the Jews, and then bringing the message to the Gentiles.  While I'm sure it was frustrating for Paul, he did see a lot of fruit.  Jews and Gentiles alike from all walks of life are beginning to believe the Good News.    Priscilla and Aquilla appear on the scene and they are a huge support to Paul, as Apollos will be as well.  What I admire so much about Paul is how he traveled around frequently, built networks of believers (which become churches), and he seems almost fearless.  He doesn't get too attached to any place, although he stays some places longer than others.  And yet, he builds deep relationships.  There had to be a lot of hard good-byes.    Another thing I noticed in today's reading is Paul's ability to disciple people in the faith.  He disciples Priscilla and Aquilla.  He stops by all the different churches where he has built relationships, discipling them and encouraging them.  His various pastoral letters, while they addressed specific problems, were definitely letters intended to disciple and mentor those working under him in the name of Jesus.  He doesn't lead someone to Christ and then just leave them in that infancy stage.  He truly does everything he can to build people up in the faith and help them grow.   Discipling others is hugely important and I think it's something we don't do very well in the Western church.  For so long, our emphasis was getting people to say yes to Jesus.  While that is not a bad thing, Jesus teaches us in the Great Commission to go make disciples.  Remember, a disciple is an apprentice, someone who is truly working to be like Jesus.  This doesn't mean someone who has intellectual belief in Jesus but someone who is doing all they can to be like Jesus in thoughts and actions.  What are some ways that we could do a better job discipling other Christians at New Hope?   The bottom line was that Paul was totally and completely sold out for Jesus and he was willing to make any sacrifice to advance God's Kingdom.  How many of us can say that?  Wow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

One fine day in October of 1891, a teenage boy named Aquilla Ernest Clark left the farm in Scappoose where he'd been working, headed for Portland. He was going to see the sights and maybe show himself a good time for a few days. He wandered around the waterfront, taking drinks here and there and probably taking a hand in a card game or two; then, when it was getting close to evening, he met a pleasant fellow who happened to mention that he was staying at the sailors' boardinghouse at Second and Glisan streets. “It's the best place to stay in Portland,” he said. That sounded good; Aquilla needed a place to stay for the night. So he went with his new friend to the boardinghouse. “The place was rather dimly lighted,” Aquilla told author Stewart Holbrook, years later, in a 1933 interview for the Portland Sunday Oregonian. “A Scandinavian was playing an accordion in the big main room on the ground floor; several old-time seamen, or at least I took them to be such, were sitting in chairs around the room, smoking pipes that reeked to the skies and telling how these new-fangled steamboats would never amount to much.” It was good enough for Aquilla. He checked in.... (For text and pictures, see https://offbeatoregon.com/20-10.aquilla-clark-shanghaied-590.html)

" How can the church stay healthy as it grows? In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses Acts 18-20 and the dominio affect of faithfulness we see with Apollos, Priscilla, and Aquilla. Emma challenges listeners to recognize their role in the mission of God in faithful obedience to sharing the Gospel and discipling others. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

In Acts 18, we are briefly introduced to a couple of normal, everyday followers of Jesus—Priscilla and Aquilla. In this message, Pastor John talks about how God uses people ordinary people who are devoted and surrendered to lead his church.

Scott and Tammy Pauley join us to discuss their new book, New Testament Marriage. The book delves into the lives of Bible couple, Aquilla and Priscilla. This couple gives us a beautiful picture of a marriage where husband and wife are committed to each other and are committed to Christ. We discuss... -How to nurture friendship with your spouse -How a couple can have conversations about Christ -The importance of having a family altar -How couples can invest in other couples and serve the Lord   Resources: New Testament Marriage Resources: https://enjoyingthejourney.org/topics/new-testament-marriage/ Enjoying the Journey: https://enjoyingthejourney.org/   Follow my  journey by subscribing to this podcast. You can also follow me on Instagram, YouTube, and www.nohighercalling.org Subscribe to the NHC email at www.nohighercalling.org 

Join us as Pastor Adam Vinson continues our study through the book of Acts. Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pIB_IrVqrnY1rs9FVQ3Lv58PWasXwMwd/view

Join us as Pastor Adam Vinson continues our study through the book of Acts. Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pIB_IrVqrnY1rs9FVQ3Lv58PWasXwMwd/view

In our sermon today, Pastor Brad teaches about Priscilla, a woman whom helped Paul in the early days of the Christian church. The passage shows and example of how the Lord is always with us, how much we need other people for help sometimes, and that caring is the currency of  correction.Youtube Link: https://youtu.be/PqUKqp1e1DwThank you so much for joining us today! Please connect with us by filling out a communication card:www.lakewoodgrace.com/connect

Midnight Madness Radio Episode 294 with Wolfe Milestone, JSqrd & the Mixed-Up Zombies, The Major Resolve, Such Great Heights, Imperial Age, Gregory J, FRANCESCO MARRAS, The BARD Band, KEELEY, Post Death Soundtrack, and Antonio Vergara. Hardy Mills from Hardman Productions with an interview of Aquilla.

Ephesus is perhaps one of the more fascinating cities of the ancient world. The magical arts being performed there were arguably second to none and made for a unique beginning of the church there. The first years were not without growing pains as we shall see. Title: The Church in Ephesus and Its Mystical Culture Date: AD 51-56 Place: Ephesus Key Figures and Events: Paul, Priscilla, Aquilla, Apollos, Ephesian Church Documents of Significance: Acts 18-19 Contact: churchhistoryandtheology@proton.me Want to Support the Show? If you'd like to help cover hosting costs, development, and general support of the show, you can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/churchhistory License: Church History and Theology is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. For full license details, please visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ Under this license, you are free to download, copy, share, remix, and translate episodes. You must credit Church History and Theology, link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. These materials may not be used for commercial purposes.

Ephesus is perhaps one of the more fascinating cities of the ancient world. The magical arts being performed there were arguably second to none and made for a unique beginning of the church there. The first years were not without growing pains as we shall see. Title: The Church in Ephesus and Its Mystical Culture Date: AD 51-56 Place: Ephesus Key Figures and Events: Paul, Priscilla, Aquilla, Apollos, Ephesian Church Documents of Significance: Acts 18-19 Contact: churchhistoryandtheology@proton.me Want to Support the Show? If you'd like to help cover hosting costs, development, and general support of the show, you can do so here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/churchhistory License: Church History and Theology is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. For full license details, please visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/ Under this license, you are free to download, copy, share, remix, and translate episodes. You must credit Church History and Theology, link to the license, and indicate if changes were made. These materials may not be used for commercial purposes.

Paul arrives in Corinth, meets Aquilla & Priscilla.  Silas & Timothy join him.  The Lord gives him a vision "Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking".

Send us a Text Message.Join us as we explore the story of Priscilla and Aquilla, dive into the balance of theology and practical faith, and learn how to have meaningful conversations about belief. Discover why distinguishing our message's core is crucial and gain insights on communicating with love and wisdom in today's busy, digital world. Don't miss this engaging and thought-provoking episode!Stay Connected Website: https://believerschurch.org/ Believers Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/believerschurch.va/ Believers Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/believers_church/

Daily Dose of Hope August 4, 2024 Day 1 of Week 19   Scripture:  I Samuel 26-27; I Chronicles 8; Acts 18   Welcome back, everyone.  We are now on Week 19 of our daily Bible reading plan.  We have come a long way!  Good job to all of you.      Today, we start with I Samuel 26.  Once again, we see David spare the life of Saul.  Saul has reneged on his previous peace with David (not surprising) and has taken 3,000 troops to pursue David in the wilderness of Ziph.  David hears about this plan and tracks Saul.  When Saul and his troops are asleep, he sneaks down to the camp and takes Saul's water jug and spear, which were right next to his head.  David could have easily killed Saul with his own spear but he doesn't.  Why?  Because David is obedient.  As much pain and heartache as Saul has caused David, he refuses to lower himself to Saul's level.  He refuses to take revenge.  God told David not to kill Saul so he won't kill Saul.   I'm sure it took a huge amount of restraint for David to allow God to take care of things in his timing.  What is it about us as human beings that we feel the need to take revenge?  When someone has hurt us, when a wrong has been done, we want to hurt or get back at the person who did it.  We want to make them hurt as much as we do.  David must have had that temptation with Saul but he didn't give in to it.  I've known people who held on to anger and the desire for revenge for years and years.  It ended up becoming like a poison in their system, slowing killing their spirit and any joy in their lives.   Examine your own life. Do you have intense anger toward another person?  Do you have the desire for revenge or maybe simply the desire for someone else “to get what they deserve”?  What would it be like for you to give that to God today, to totally release it and allow God to take care of the situation in his own way and timing?  I can't help but wonder how your life might change.  I keep thinking about Paul's words in Romans 12:17-21, Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.  If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.  Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.  On the contrary, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.  In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”  Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.   David has gotten tired of this cat and mouse game with Saul.  Thus, David takes his family and his large army to live in the land of the Philistines.  By this point, David has made a name for himself; he is essentially a famous outlaw and Achish, the king of Gath, allows him to stay there (remember that my enemy's enemy is my friend so Achish saw David as an ally).  That being said, this was no small thing for the king to do.  David and his 600-man army, many with families, would have taken over a small Philistine town.  You can imagine the townspeople might not have been too happy.  Knowing this, David asks Achish to give them a town, a space of their own, to live in and not be too disruptive in the Philistine territory.  David pretends his request is an act of humility (“Why should I live in the royal city with you?”) but David clearly knew what he was doing.   Interestingly, the king gives David the town of Ziklag.  This was an area that was part of Judah, part of the territory that God had given the Israelites, but they had never gotten around to conquering it.  David and his men promptly conquered it and made a home there.  David's time in exile was certainly not a waste, as he actually used it to continue Israel's conquest of Canaan.  From that point on, the land belonged to Judah.   After reflecting on David's time in Philistine territory, I began to think about times in my own life that felt a bit like an exile.  I'm sure you have those seasons of life as well.  Maybe it's a health issue, a stagnant job, caregiving responsibilities, or something else that keeps you from doing what you really want to do, that keeps you from feel like you are moving forward in your life.  But those times in exile are not wasted.  In fact, God doesn't waste anything! These are times that God can use to teach us and help prepare us for what's to come.  If you are like me, you may get a bit impatient during these times.  Instead, think of them as seasons of healing, growth, and preparation.   Okay, we are going to kind of breeze through I Chronicles 8.  It is the genealogy of Saul the Benjaminite.  I think we have done a pretty good job covering the importance of these genealogies.  No need to belabor it.  Read through the names and simply reflect on how these were men who really lived, had families, jobs, and lives.  And this chapter documents that.   Our New Testament passage is Acts 18.  Here, we read more about Paul's missionary journey.  He heads to Corinth, where he almost throws in the towel when it came to preaching to the Jews.  But God encourages him and we continue to see his pattern of heading to the synagogue first, debating with the Jews, and then bringing the message to the Gentiles.  While I'm sure it was frustrating for Paul, he did see a lot of fruit.  Jews and Gentiles alike from all walks of life are beginning to believe the Good News.    Priscilla and Aquilla appear on the scene and they are a huge support to Paul, as Apollos will be as well.  What I admire so much about Paul is how he traveled around frequently, built networks of believers (which become churches), and he seems almost fearless.  He doesn't get too attached to any place, although he stays some places longer than others.  And yet, he builds deep relationships.  There had to be a lot of hard good-byes.  He was totally and completely sold out for Jesus and he was willing to make any sacrifice to advance God's Kingdom.  How many of us can say that?  Wow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki        

Church Online 14th Of July 2024 Matt Thorp Aquilla And Priscilla A Humble Relationship by WDBC

https://youtu.be/0q0kPp5Urso?si=8uY9TDDJOnY8xYYT Search Engine - 3 - 06/23/24   God's will shall always be done! What's the difference between praying: "Thy will be done"  & not praying at all!?   2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.   Your decisions matter.   Where was Jesus in His teens and 20s?!   12 years old… Luke 2:41-43 Every year Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem for the Festival of the Passover. 42 When he was twelve years old, they went up to the festival, according to the custom. 43 After the festival was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it.   52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.   Carpenter? Joseph death? Supported family rather than be chosen for Sanhedrin discipleship?Puberty?   Jesus ministry starts when He is 30… 18 year gap of knowledge.   Who were some influential women and followers of Jesus in the NT?   Ancient world often devalued women. Scripture celebrates women.   Eve - It is eve's seed that defeats the serpent.Sarah - God does not just make a covenant with Abraham… but Abraham and Sarah.Haggar - She names God - El Roi - The God who sees me. Moses - Jochebed, Miriam, Pharoah's daughter, Exodus 1 - 2 Egyptian midwives - Shiphrah and Puah Prophets - Miriam, Deborah, Huldah (2 Chronicles 34),   NT MaryElizabethMary & Martha of BethanyMary Magdalene - Possessed woman saved by Jesus  Luke 8:1-3 1 After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; 3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means. Women were disciples.Women were prophets - Phillip's daughters.Many churches started in the houses of women.Romans 16 - Paul mentions several women  Phoebe - a Deacon - servant in the Church.  Priscilla (and Aquilla) co-workers in Jesus  Junia - Great among the apostles   What was the purpose of Jesus being led by the spirit to be tested in the wilderness?  (Was it to experience human struggles?)   Matthew 4:1-3 Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted[a] by the devil. 2 After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”   Not tested to see if He would fail. Tempted to demonstrate - HOW TO OVERCOME   Hebrews 4:15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.   Hebrews 2:18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.   Everything grows at night.Night seasons grow us.   1 Cor 12 - Spiritual Gifts  One is given this gift, one is given that gift, one this, one that  Vs 11 - He divides up the gifts to each person as He wills  Is this to say that most people have only one (or limited) spiritual gift(s)?  And further, does each person have at least one gift?   God gifts creation. Everyone has giftings in the natural.   The Spirit is a gift. Acts 2:38The Spirit gives SPIRITUAL GIFTS.    9 Gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:8-10)Word of wisdom Word of knowledge Gift of faith Gift of healing Working of miracles Prophecy Distinguishing between spirits Speaking in tongues Interpreting tongues   1 Cor 12:11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.   The Spirit distributes and determines. Do all prophesy? Do all interpret? V29-30   31 Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.

Hosts Rico Basso and Pastor John Durante Question Timestamps: Frank, NJ (4:13) - Does Satan have the power to take a believer's life with God's permission? Jack, NJ (10:27) - Is there more than just the New Jerusalem in Revelation 22? Stella, NY (17:14) - Can you explain the difference between Calvinism and Arminianism? Which is closest to what is stated in the Bible? Lisa, NJ (23:45) - In Acts, what does God mean when he tells Peter to “kill and eat?” Luke, AR (26:36, continued after the break at 33:27) - What was Priscilla's role in the early church? What was her role with her husband Aquilla? How are women supposed to approach that? Cameron, PA (42:45) - Can you explain Mark 10:15? Phil, ID (46:51) - Is the Bible supportive of getting remarried after a divorce or staying single? Charlotte, NY (51:32) - Is tithing ten percent something that we have to do or something that we choose to do? Questions? 888-712-7434 Answers@bbtlive.org

Recorded 5/12/2024. Pastor Larry Stephens brings a message from Acts 18:24-28 on the importance of taking charge. In the absence of the Apostle Paul, Aquilla and Priscilla took up the mantle of discipleship by steering Apollos in the "ways of the Lord." This is a message that encourages followers of Christ to be competent in the Word of God, to encourage others, and to be encouraged. 

Paul & Ephesus: Aquilla, Priscilla, & A Short Stay in Ephesus (Josh Coker) - 4.28.2024

ACTS 18:18-28 18 Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken. 19 They arrived at Ephesus, where Paul left Priscilla and Aquilla. He himself went into the synagogue and reasoned with the Jews. 20 When they asked him to spend more time with them, he declined. 21 But as he left, he promised, "I will come back if it is God's will." Then he set sail from Ephesus. 22 When he landed at Caesarea, he went up and greeted the church and then went down to Antioch. 23 After spending some time in Antioch, Paul set out from there and traveled from place to place throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples. 24 Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25 He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he only knew the baptism of John. 26 He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained the way of God more adequately. 27 When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. 28 For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ. (NIV 84) FROM THE LESSON Four statements about the will of God (from the book Decision Making and the Will of God by Garry Friesen): 1 Where God commands, we must obey. 2 Where there is no command, God gives us the freedom (and responsibility) to choose. 3 Where there is no command, God gives us wisdom to choose. 4 When we have chosen what is moral and wise, we must trust the sovereign God to work all the details together for good.  All Christians should have a theology of the dimly seen - based on 1 Corinthians 13:12, "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part: then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1 Who would you say that you know better than anyone else? Who knows you better than anyone else? Why would you say that person? Now with that in mind, how well would you say that you know God? 2 How have you thought about the will of God for your life? Have you thought about it like an individual, specific, detailed plan for your life or more like the way it was presented this morning? Discuss the four statements of guidance stated above. What do you think about this understanding of the will of God? 3 What do you think about all Christians having a theology of the dimly seen? Paul wrote, "now we see but a poor reflection" and "now I know in part." Can you remember a time when someone helped you have a more complete understanding of the ways of God? Can you share it with the group? 4 How did you experience the eclipse on Monday? Were you in the line of totality? Share your experience with the group. Remember a time when you have experienced the wonder of God's grace. Share about this time with your group. 

We continue a study through the official authorized story of the Apostles & their mail (Acts & the epistles) looking for ways it can shape our biblical worldview. Next up, Luke tells the tale of Paul's continued mission, the role of Priscilla & Aquilla, and a man named Apollos who presents us with an interesting problem. Sources & Mentions: N.T. Lit (curriculum I authored) Show music:   “River Runs Deep” by SLPSTRM   “Moon Valley“ by SLPSTRM "Silent Bloom" by SLPSTRM Produced by Jeremy Eagan --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/anakainosis/message

It's not at all unusual to know the name of a murder victim, but not the name of the killer. But today we're going to look at a case where the killer has most likely been identified while at least one of his victim's names was unknown for decades. Today I'm going to feature one of those cases, and this one has a truth-is-stranger-than-fiction backstory.   Welcome to another episode of The Unlovely Truth. I'm your host, private investigator Lori Morrison. Join me for another captivating true crime story, where physical, spiritual, and emotional safety takeaways are waiting for us.    This is Season 5, Episode 10. With thousands of unidentified murder victims just in the United States, giving a name to one can be like finding a needle in a haystack. A woman know for decades as 1985 Desoto County Jane Doe had a family and friends who needed to know what had become of her.  This case highlights how anyone can be what I call a different kind of P.I. - not a private investigator like me but a person of impact in your community.    Every church has physical, emotional, and spiritual safety issues. Most just don't know it. Are you going to wait for a trainwreck to occur before you address them? Helping churches be proactive about safety is why I wrote“Reclaiming Sanctuary: Enhancing Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Safety in Our Churches”. I know how hard it can be to address unpleasant issues because I've been where you are - in a leadership position needing an intentional approach customized to the needs of my unique church.    I'm offering a free 20 minute strategy call for church leaders to see if my work might be a good fit for you. Email me today at lori@theunlovelytruth.com and we'll start a conversation about your church's needs and how we can work together to create a customized plan for your church. Schedule your no risk, all reward call today!   1 Corinthians 3:5-8   After all, who is Apollos? Who is Paul? We are only God's servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. It's not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What's important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work.   It took a lot of people doing what God gifted and equipped them to do in order for a set of human remains to be identified as Lorie Ann Mealer Pennell, a woman who was more than just a victim. She had a family and friends who loved her. She had dreams and hopes for her future - just like you and I do. It took a number of people who each played a unique role to restore her identity and give her family some answers they'd been waiting for for so long   How this all came together is a lot like the Apostle Paul's ministry. He did amazing things, but he didn't do them alone.    Appollos wasn't the only person giving Paul a hand. He had quite a few traveling companions like Barnabas, Silas, John Mark, and others. He also had the support of the disciples, once they realized that God had transformed Paul from a zealous killer of Christians to an apostle of Jesus. And let's not forget the ladies! Lydia helped support Paul's work as did Priscilla and her husband Aquilla. Paul specifically mentioned Phoebe as a benefactor to him and many others. It took so many people working together for Paul to be able to accomplish all that he did.   God has wired us to work together. Moses had his siblings, Aaron and Miriam, and later his father in law Jethro. Jesus had a whole twelve man team. We just saw how Paul's team was almost too numerous to count! It should make all of us wonder - whose team am I on? What mission can I help reach more people or have a greater impact?    That's how we're going to make ourselves, our families, and our communities safer. We need to make those connections to help each other get a little further down the road. So my challenge to all of us this week is to think about something from this episode that really resonated. Maybe it was the role forensics plays in helping reclaim identities for unknown murder victims. OR maybe you really felt that check in your gut when I mentioned high school students doing incredible real world work in their classrooms. How many of you have already decided to check out that podcast, Murder 101? I did and it's fantastic! Or maybe you know someone with a missing family member or dear friend who just needs you to listen to them and now you've decided to reach out. Whatever it is, don't wait. I believe God put that on your heart, and when you join that team He's calling you to, you will see amazing things happen.   Let me know what you thought of this episode! Send me an email a lori@theunlovelytruth.com or message me on social media. I love it when people are willing to have those hard, but impactful conversations!   Visit my website to access more episodes, read my blog posts, or check out ways you can financially support the podcast so that together we can impact more people, more families, and more communities. If you would like to contact me about booking me as a speaker, or ask about my consulting and investigative services, please email me at lori@theunlovelytruth.com.    Learn more about the cases Othram had helped solve   News story about Carla Davis   Learn more about the unidentified missing epidemic   Listen to Murder 101   Share this episode    Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn   Check out my Amazon Author Page to find resources on personal safety, and safety training for churches.   

How many of us battle the idea of being obedient? Monica Aquilla delivers some very powerful points on the topic of obedience in her discussion with Robb Gregory on todays Belt of Truth podcast!Belt of Truth is a podcast brought to you by Armor of God, a Catholic men's movement based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, established to arm men to be the spiritual leaders God has called them to be. Belt of Truth features discussions with a variety of guests to explore different topics crucial for men to hear and reflect on their journey to becoming spiritual leaders. Learn more about Armor of God and Belt of Truth at armingmen.com.Edited and Produced by Josh Bach of OurLocalParish.com

Sermon, 06/18/2023: Aquilla and Priscilla

We're first introduced to Priscilla and her husband Aquilla in Acts 18. During his second missionary journey Paul came to Corinth and met Priscilla and Aquila. They were Italians who immigrated to Corinth when Claudius commanded all the Jews to leave Rome.All God's Women is a daily devotional women's Bible study podcast and internationally syndicated radio show where we journey through the Bible one woman's story at a time. If you enjoy learning about women in the Bible, tune in each weekday for 2-minute Bible stories about Bible women.Take your study further with the Women of Prayer BIBLE STUDY Be a part of the Women of Prayer SIMULSTUDYLearn more at the All God's Women WEBSITEJoin the All God's Women FACEBOOK GROUPPin All God's Women on PINTERESTFollow Sharon Wilharm on FACEBOOK

We're first introduced to Priscilla and her husband Aquilla in Acts 18. During his second missionary journey Paul came to Corinth and met Priscilla and Aquila. They were Italians who immigrated to Corinth when Claudius commanded all the Jews to leave Rome.All God's Women is a daily devotional women's Bible study podcast and internationally syndicated radio show where we journey through the Bible one woman's story at a time. If you enjoy learning about women in the Bible, tune in each weekday for 2-minute Bible stories about Bible women. Take your study further with the Women of Prayer BIBLE STUDY Be a part of the Women of Prayer SIMULSTUDYLearn more at the All God's Women WEBSITEJoin the All God's Women FACEBOOK GROUPPin All God's Women on PINTERESTFollow Sharon Wilharm on FACEBOOK

One writer tried to give Priscilla a title, and it went something like this: Christ follower, Tent Maker, Teacher, Encourager, Home Church Hostess & Leader, Devoted Wife of Aquila, and Faithful friend to Paul.    To that title, I would add based on Romans 13:3-4: Paul's heroic life-saver! Today we embark on the study of a woman of MANY talents, and with that study, we explore the many roles that women play, both in Scripture and today.  On the program, I frequently refer to Titus 2:3-5 which says, “the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.” As one of those older women myself, I urge women who are married with children to prioritize their families, even as they serve God in the church and their communities if they work outside the home.  I share testimonies from my life, from the life of Elisabeth Eliot, but especially looking at the great example of Priscilla, who, with her husband, taught Apollos, hosted a home church, and offered up her great many talents to the service of her King.  Priscilla and her husband Aquilla are always mentioned together as quite the dynamic duo, and they offer us a great example of how a strong Biblical marriage can reflect Christ and the church! Join me today, for a REMARKABLE woman, Priscilla. (RAR2023EP13)

One fine day in October of 1891, a teenage boy named Aquilla Ernest Clark left the farm in Scappoose where he'd been working, headed for Portland. He was going to see the sights and maybe show himself a good time for a few days. He wandered around the waterfront, taking drinks here and there and probably taking a hand in a card game or two; then, when it was getting close to evening, he met a pleasant fellow who happened to mention that he was staying at the sailors' boardinghouse at Second and Glisan streets. “It's the best place to stay in Portland,” he said. That sounded good; Aquilla needed a place to stay for the night. So he went with his new friend to the boardinghouse. It was good enough for Aquilla. He checked in. He didn't know it, but he was less than 24 hours away from a new career ... and it would be seven years before he'd see Portland again. (Portland, Multnomah County; 1891) (For text and pictures, see https://offbeatoregon.com/20-10.aquilla-clark-shanghaied-590.html)

Paul notes that he is indebted to a wife and husband team, Prisca and Aquilla. He notes that not only he personally is in debt to them, but all the gentile churches. Essentially, everybody in the scope of Paul's ministry owes them a debt of gratitude, that they probably don't even know about.First, they have a 20 year history of co-ministry with Paul, and are of only a few friends left standing at the bitter end. Second, in a moment that no one planned on, they "risked their necks" for Paul.  They laid their life on the line to save Paul's life, thereby saving the ministry to the Gentiles.  This is a big deal.Paul appreciates them today and so should we. Please pray for this podcast.

In Acts 18 we meet a local government official who refuses to deal with cases that come before him.  This event not only presents true history but also gives us an accurate historical setting for the entire book of Acts.  This session discusses what happens when leaders are not strong and fair enough to ensure public safety.  Paul takes Priscilla and Aquilla with him on the missionary journey, which is surprising since he previously refused to take Mark. How are women presented in the Bible?How should people make vows to God?Why would Paul not stay in Ephesus even though they asked him to stay?Support the show

Paul pays his own way by being a tentmaker, and in doing so converts his coworkers Priscilla and Aquilla. Paul spends a great deal of time building and teaching a church in Corinth. The Corinthian church, however, has a great deal of questions and issues even though they had so much of Paul's time.  As always, Luke includes a great deal of historical detail which corroborates the book of Acts in history.  We learn about Paul's methods for starting new churches. Jesus gives a word of encouragement to Paul to reassure him, which the Lord will often do with all His followers. Should Christian workers take donations or work a job? Who is responsible when someone does not accept Christ?Is it possible that a church can have a great pastor and still have a lot of problems and issues?Support the show

No matter what our individual vocations or likes in marriage, as believers there should be a meeting place in marriage where we come together for the gospel. This is modeled for us so well in the lives of the NT husband and wife team, Aquilla and Priscilla.

Episode 59: Acts 18-19 - The Liminal Leftovers of Johnny B.November 13, 2022 - Host: Dr. Gregory HallIn Acts 18-19 we are introduced to a subgroup of the faithful. They are folks that knew and followed the teachings of John the Baptist. But these events occur about thirty years after the ministry of Johnny B. So just how should we understand these folks who don't fit nicely into any of our modern-day boxes.Resources Referenced and/or Read:Carman J. Imes, Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters (Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2019) 17.The story of Hiroo Onoda can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hiroo_OnodaHodges, Zane C. “Harmony with God Part 3 of 3.” Chafer Theological Seminary Journal Volume 9, 2003.Show Music:Intro/Outro - "Growth" by Armani Delos SantosTransition Music - produced by Jacob A. HallPodcast Website:The All-America Listener Challenge Updates: https://rethinkingscripture.comMy New Podcast Studio... The Upper Room: https://rethinkingscripture.com/podcast-episodes/More information about The Homes and Help Initiative: https://rethinkingscripture.com/homes-help-initiative/Sister site: RethinkingRest.comRethinking Rest... the Book: Available January 19, 2023!More information about the book: https://rethinkingrest.com/the-book/Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RethinkingScripture Twitter: @RethinkingStuffInstagram: Rethinking_ScriptureYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6YCLg2UldJiA0dsg0KkvLAPowered and distributed by Simplecast.

Aquilla says Gideon's misogynistic views have her ready to leave this relationship. Gideon is from Africa and has different ideological beliefs of a woman's role in a relationship.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis sends 48 migrants to Martha's Vineyard to highlight the left's immigration hypocrisy. In this episode, we find peace in knowing there have always been mass migrations of people, and we find inspiration in the New Testament's Aquilla and Priscilla, expelled from Rome unjustly yet always following the law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis sends 48 migrants to Martha's Vineyard to highlight the left's immigration hypocrisy. In this episode, we find peace in knowing there have always been mass migrations of people, and we find inspiration in the New Testament's Aquilla and Priscilla, expelled from Rome unjustly yet always following the law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis sends 48 migrants to Martha's Vineyard to highlight the left's immigration hypocrisy. In this episode, we find peace in knowing there have always been mass migrations of people, and we find inspiration in the New Testament's Aquilla and Priscilla, expelled from Rome unjustly yet always following the law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis sends 48 migrants to Martha's Vineyard to highlight the left's immigration hypocrisy. In this episode, we find peace in knowing there have always been mass migrations of people, and we find inspiration in the New Testament's Aquilla and Priscilla, expelled from Rome unjustly yet always following the law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have all heard time and time again that in order to scale we need an email list — this is very intimidating, to say the least. You know how much spam and junk mail you get, I know that the pressure is on to not be bulked into a mass delete or unsubscribed. However, having an active (keyword there) list is so so so important and my guest today, Aquilla Farrell tells us why! Join us as we chat about some ways you can use your social media accounts to grow your list and some HUGE do's and don'ts ——⭐️ Click HERE to subscribe and get access to new podcast episodes every week