Podcasts about as christ

What if your job — even the one you don’t love — is actually sacred? In this episode, we unpack what it truly means to “work for the Lord.” Drawing from 1 Corinthians 15:58, we explore how every task, every shift, and every responsibility can become an act of worship when done with the right heart posture. What We Discuss Why every job can glorify God Working through difficult seasons with faithfulness Serving Jesus even when serving a challenging boss The difference between working for approval vs. working from purpose Why work is a blessing — not a burden How Jesus modeled servant leadership This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Work for the LordBy: Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). Like most people, I have had many different jobs. Some of these jobs I really enjoyed, but others, not so much. However, in every job, I have tried to do my best. For example, a few years ago I worked at an inn. It was extremely difficult, since I struggle with contamination-type OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder). The responsibility of an assistant innkeeper means cleaning anything and everything—changing bed sheets, washing bed sheets, cleaning bathrooms, washing floors, dusting, and any other housework that needs to be done. As someone with OCD, this was incredibly stressful. However, by the grace of God, I lasted the entire summer. I tried my best every day, and I know that I served the Lord through my work. Someone might say, “No, you were working for your boss.” While this is true, I was also working for Jesus. In everything we do, we need to work as though we are working for the Lord (Colossians 3:23-24). We are serving Jesus in any job we put our hands to. This is why we need to work at every task with our whole heart. Rather than becoming lazy, we need to glorify God in our work. Maybe you are at a job right now that is similar to when I worked at the inn—you don’t like it, and you can’t wait to get off each day. If this is true, know that you won’t be at this job forever. For the time being, continue to do your best and strive to serve Jesus through your work. Even if your boss is not kind or the job is taxing, try your best to show Jesus’ love to everyone around you. Jesus Himself took on the nature of a servant (Philippians 2:5–8). We need to follow His example by also taking on the nature of a servant. We should not view any job as inferior. Sometimes we have to take a job because we have no other choice. God does not call us to be idle or unproductive in our lives. Instead, He wants us to work and serve Him through our dedication to doing what is right. Many people have a distorted view of work. They think work is a bad thing. This is not true—work is a blessing from God. Working and being able to provide for ourselves is a good thing. We never need to view work in a negative light, because it can help us grow, build a strong work ethic, and produce endurance. Through our work, we can become more dependent on God. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Apostle Paul tells us, “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). As Paul says in this passage, we need to give ourselves fully to the work of the Lord as our hard work is not in vain. Working for the Lord will bring Him glory and point others to Him. Many people think the “work of the Lord” only consists of pastors, Sunday school teachers, or missionaries, but this is not true. The “work of the Lord” can be anything, as long as we are serving Jesus through our work. Therefore, even regular jobs, such as working at a hotel, a library, or a department store, can all bring glory to God if we are faithfully serving Him. As Christ followers, we must ask ourselves whether or not we will serve God in our work. If we become lazy and unproductive in our work, we are not working to the glory of the Lord. If we find ourselves in this situation, we need to bring our hearts back to Jesus. Every job deserves our full attention and productivity. Loving God and serving Him will help us to truly work for Him and not give up when times are hard. Continue to work for Him because your labor is not in vain. Jesus sees all the challenges you are going through. Even when days are tough, choose to live for Him, love Him, and serve Him faithfully in your work and in your life. What are some ways you can glorify God in your work? List a few here. Further Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:31 1 Thessalonians 4:10-12 Colossians 3:17 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Pastor Dominic continues our sermon series in the Gospel of Matthew, preaching from Matthew 12:38–50. In this message, he warns of the danger of hardened hearts and empty faith while pointing to the hope found in Jesus—the greater Jonah and the promised Savior. As Christ calls people to true repentance and obedience, we are invited into an enduring relationship with Him as members of God's family. Learn more about Maple Plain Community Church at https://mapleplaincc.org.

Priorities. .... Have you ever thought about if you're REALLY living your priorities?  .... When's the last time you stopped and did an inventory of WHERE you're spending your time? .... Where we spend our time is the surest barometer of where our heart and priorities lie. Webster's defines priorities as something given or meriting attention before competing alternatives.  As Christ followers, we're given our priorities by our Lord, not the world. .... Andy Stanley says it this way: "We don't drift in good directions. We discipline and prioritizeourselves there."    Are YOU disciplining and prioritizing yourself in God's direction today? ....

Why is it important to have a biblical or godly perspective?  Our perspective should be the same as the God we serve. We want to see and interpret things the way God does. This will only happen as we make the Bible the lens through which we see the world. You'll never see things the way God does until you see things through the lens of scripture.Main Points:1. It's common to hear people, in a moment of disagreement say, “I don't see it that way.” As Christ-followers, we need to ask the question, “How does God see it?” We then reframe our perspective to match how God sees things.2. Our perspective matters because it influences our beliefs, values, our lifestyle, our mindset, and our attitude.3. Determine that the Bible will be the lens through which you see and interpret the World. As you do, you'll begin to see things the way God does.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Corinthians 4:7-9 - “ But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”2 Corinthians 4:16-18 - “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As Christ followers, we KNOW that it is fundamental that our Identity has to be placed in Jesus Christ, but is it…. really?  What does that fully mean & why is rightfully placing our identity in Jesus Christ, just so vital?These are all the things we unpack in today's episode! So whether you've struggled with your worth, your past, have held onto shame or even failure, or tend to place your identity in relationships, your career, your finances or even yourself, there is something here for you today. My hope is that God would open our eyes to where were truly at with all of this. And most importantly, we'd get a greater understanding of what God & His word says about who we are and not the world and boldly walk in it.Songs to listen to on IdentityChild of GodWho You Say I AmYou Say For More InfoWebsiteInstagram

This is disturbing and sad. Joshua Link, a 24-year-old man on transgender hormones from Belleville, Illinois, reportedly took his own life. Joshua supposedly "transitioned" five years ago.Joshua's parents are blaming their son's death on the church that employed Joshua as a custodian. The church is St. John's Lutheran Church - an LC-MS church - in Granite City. The parents blame the church because the pastor did not permit their son to wear a French maid outfit and cat ears while working.Joshua is dead. Not because the church held to God's truths. But because he believed the Devil's lies. He was trapped in physical, emotional, and spiritual darkness.There is a spiritual darkness that has fallen like a shadow over our nation. The recent political unrest is the result of long-term spiritual unrest that has been allowed to settle over America for decades. People celebrate the dismemberment of unborn children and call it a "woman's choice." They use hormones and surgery to mutilate and castrate children, and they call it "gender affirming care." They encourage an unwell, elderly person to end their God-given life and call it "dying with dignity." They burst into a worship service and liken it to Jesus overturning tables in the temple courtyard.This darkness is nothing new. A spiritual, emotional, and physical darkness had fallen upon the land of Zebulon and Naphtali in northern Galilee for centuries. This area was an invasion corridor often used by armies throughout Israel's history. Assyria and Babylon invaded from the north trampling this area. It was often humbled by the struggle of nations.Isaiah prophesies what will happen in this area. "There will be no more gloom for the land that was in anguish. In former times, he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will cause it to be glorious, along the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, in Galilee of the Gentiles" (Isaiah 9:1).The same territory where the feet of invading soldiers trampled every hope and left nothing but gloom and distress would be the scene of a bright future. God had chosen this area for a special honor. Matthew writes about the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy. "[Jesus] left Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali. He did this to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, along the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles, the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and on those dwelling in the region and the shadow of death a light has dawned" (Matthew 4:13-16).An oppressive pall of unbelief had settled upon the people in this northern territory. It was filled with Gentiles who did not believe in the true God of Israel. It was far away from the worship in the temple in Jerusalem. True believers would travel great distances - between 70-90 miles - to bring their lambs for sacrifice on Jerusalem's altar.Yet, this dark, gloomy land of unbelief and Gentiles was blessed because this is where Jesus chose to do the bulk of his ministry. Jesus' message was simple and direct. "Repent, because the kingdom of heaven is near" (Matthew 4:17). Jesus proclaimed to Galileans that they could be free from the idolatry, work righteousness, and materialism that completely captivated them.Galileans were the first to see the light of God's day dawning over the world. The Lamb of God came not to the altar in Jerusalem but to the people in faraway Galilee. Jesus began shining his light into the shadowed nooks and crannies of the world. From fishing boats to synagogues, from workmen to lame men, Christ cast a beacon of light into the darkened world around him with his three-fold ministry of teaching, preaching, and healing. God called his children to follow the light and live in the light.Jesus is the Light of the world. His Word is the Light that confronts, converts, and consoles in present-day darkness, too. He is the Truth that confronts the Devil's lies. He is the only Way of salvation in a polytheistic world. He is the Life in a culture of death. He is the Wisdom of God in a world ruled by toxic empathy, half-truths, and illogical thought. Jesus and his Word are the solution to every issue in our world today.I've heard for years that pastors and Christians should not talk about politics. "Politics" is Greek for "the affairs of the city or citizen." I counter that politics is nothing more than Christian sanctification in the public square. What happens when pastors and Christians don't apply God's Word to the issues of the day - "politics"? Satan fills the void. When we Christians are silent on the issues of the day, men will listen to non-Christian men for leadership. Women will be filled with toxic empathy.Notice what Satan has done. He's taken religious issues on marriage, sex, children, beginning of life, end of life, rule of law, and so on, and made them political. Then many in the Church won't talk about them because they are deemed political. We do ourselves, our neighbors, and our nation a disservice when we cede these issues only to the government. But they are first moral and theological issues that Christians should be discussing, debating, and deciding based on the doctrines of the Bible.I believe we should not be silent about the cultural, social, political, or theological issues of the day. Instead, we should be sharing God's Word and wisdom on all these issues. We should preach Jesus and his doctrines to every facet of life. We preach Jesus' message, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." Satan is the Prince of this world. But this world also belongs to Jesus Christ. All things are under his feet (Ephesians 1:22). We shine the light of God's Word into the darkness of this culture. When the Church is silent on issues that the culture is screaming about, then a whole generation only hears one worldview - an un-Christian worldview. The Church must speak up, pray up, disciple up, and train up generations to navigate through cultural issues with the truth of God's Word.The more we talk about issues as pastors and Christians, the less "political" they become. Soren Kierkegaard was correct when he wrote, "What looks like politics, and imagines itself to be political, will one day unmask itself as a religious movement."A darkness has moved like a shadow to cover our nation because people have replaced God's truths with the Devil's lies. They celebrate death and call it good. They praise butchery of the body and call it "health care." They admire those who are confused by their mental illness and call it brave. We need to start calling these atrocities by their proper names. When someone talks about "abortion," correct them by calling it "murder of the unborn." "Gender affirming care," we call "butchery of the body." "Transgenderism," we call "dysphoria" and "confusion." People have bought into these lies because they have placed emotions and feelings over logic and God's truths.Satan's strategy is simple - make sin look normal and make righteousness look weird. The closer you get to God, the weirder you look to people. Don't fall for it.These issues of believing the Devil's lies aren't just "out there" in the world. They are also within our own hearts. We have bought into these lies that the Devil tells and the world promotes because we don't know God's truths well enough; because we aren't bold in our preaching and teaching; and because we just want to be liked. We, too, are susceptible to these lies because our sinful nature is hostile to God and his truths. We are also naturally inclined to the Devil's untruths because they are scratching our itching ears. As Christ's modern-day disciples, we are often drawn away from God's truths and his Christian Church. We want to belong. We don't want to be left out. We don't want to be considered weird. Standing up for God's truths is hard. Sitting quietly on the sideline while other Christians are fighting is much easier and safer.We cannot become angry at those who oppose us and God's truths. St. John makes that clear. "The one who says he is in the light and yet hates his brother is still in the darkness. The one who loves his brother remains in the light, and nothing causes him to stumble." (1 John 2:9-10). We love them with the love of Christ who first loved us.Unbelievers are trapped by the Devil. They have been tricked into believing his lies. They are enslaved by the passions of their bodies. They are where we once were. By God's grace, Jesus has saved us from our sins of believing the Devil's lies and not standing up for God's truths.We show love to those who are trapped in the Devil's lies by ourselves first resisting the Devil and his lies. We submit ourselves to God, his will, and his truths. Then we share God's will and truths with others. We work to free our friends and family from their imprisonment by telling them about a Savior and Conqueror who has come to set them free. We keep speaking the truth in love. We unleash the Holy Spirit through God's Word. He's the only one who can convert them. He can replace their spiritual darkness with the light of faith in Christ Jesus.What happens when you share the Light of Christ in the darkness of this world? Isaiah gives us a glimpse. "The people walking in darkness have seen a great light. For those living in the land of the shadow of death, the light has dawned. You have multiplied the nation. You have increased its joy. They rejoice before you like the joy at harvest time, like the celebration when people divide the plunder. For you have shattered the yoke that burdened them. You have broken the bar on their shoulders and the rod of their oppressor, as you did in the day of Midian" (Isaiah 9:2-4).Jesus dawns in people's dark lives. Through his Word and the Holy Spirit, he converts sinners into saints. He changes their eternal destination from hell to heaven. He then sanctifies their lives, so they desire to escape Satan's chaos and rejoice in God's calm. He rescues them from their sexual sins to enjoy married life of a man and a woman that is blessed with lots of children. He calms their minds, so they become comfortable with who and what God made them to be. He makes them lovers of life - protectors for the men and nurturers for the women - from the unborn to the elderly. He allows them to resist and protest when they feel there is government overreach. But now that Jesus' kingdom is in their hearts, they follow St. John's words, "This is how we know that we have known [Jesus Christ]: if we keep his commands" (1 John 2:3). That means they'll resist and protest while keeping God's commandments.Jesus coming into people's lives is painful at first. His Light can hurt when our eyes are not used to his glory and our sins show up in painfully obvious ways. But it's so worth it. Like the people of Galilee, we rejoice. When Jesus enters a person's life, it is like a Wyoming sunrise. It's a brand-new day. All the hurts, pain, and anguish of the day before can be forgotten. It's a new day of Christ shining in you and you living in Christ.When Jesus enters a person's life, it's like the harvest of grain. He has converted the unbelieving weeds into believing wheat. The weeds are burned up like chaff. But the wheat is gathered by his angels into the storehouses of heaven. Like a rancher rejoices that his hard work has paid off and his grain is harvested, so Jesus rejoices that his hard work of justification and sanctification has paid off and his harvest of souls is safe in heaven.When Jesus enters a person's life and they hear and believe his message of repentance and faith, it's like a dreadful battle. The sinful nature, spurred on by Satan and the world fights. But the Holy Spirit has almighty strength. When the precious soul is baptized, converted, and crucified with Christ, the battle is won. Jesus has destroyed all the enemies that frightened his people. Nothing is left but to rejoice and divide the spoil.There is great darkness that has cast a shadow over our nation. Don't ever back down from sharing the Light of Jesus Christ. Keep speaking God's truths against the Devil's lies. Keep knocking down political arguments and point people to Jesus Christ as the way to believe and live. Keep injecting God's eternal wisdom into a world that seems to have lost common sense. Through his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus has become the Light that makes our lives worth living. We are his, and he is ours. Now that we have his Light, let us walk as children of the Light. Amen.View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/the-light-has-dawned/

Have you ever worked for a company or organization with a toxic workplace culture – the kind that not only make it unpleasant for the employees but also for customers and clients?  On the flipside, have you ever worked for a place where the culture was so positive that employees stayed for years and customers and clients became friends and partners? Dee Ann Turner, an expert on stewarding talent, says that "culture is the soul of the organization." And incredible culture is fostered by a sense of purpose. In other words, a healthy workplace culture requires a "why." Why do we go to work? Why do we do what we do? And what value is it to the people we are doing it for? As Christ-followers we already have a purpose, no matter what job or position we hold! Our purpose is to share Jesus with the world – including the people we work with! 

As Christ-followers, our witness can become compromised when we act or speak out of a place of anger and frustration that leads us to wrongfully blame, shame, or hurt someone else. Romans 12:2 says, "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you THINK. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect." But how do we change the way we think when we are cut off in traffic, passed over for a promotion, or hurt by someone's words? Ford Taylor from Transformational Leadership suggests this practice: when you're angry, pause and write down your thoughts. Then, write next to them what kind of thoughts God wants you to have for the situation or person. This puts GOD back in control rather than your circumstances or the people around you. 

Daily Dose of Hope January 22, 2026   Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 3   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, We rejoice in you.  We praise your name.  You are the Alpha and the Omega, the one who was, and is, and is to come.  We cannot possibly express our gratitude in words.  You have offered us mercy but you have also given us freedom.  Thank you for that.  Help us live like free people.  Help us demonstrate your love and grace to others who cross our path.  Help us see people through your eyes.  We love you, Lord.  Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  We have been working our way through the apostle Paul's letters to his churches.  Today, we are finishing up with our third pastoral letter, 2 Thessalonians.   Our reading today was 2 Thessalonians chapter 3.  In this chapter, Paul admonishes a group in the church who are causing disruption by refusing to work. We don't know the details of the circumstances. It's possible that this group believed Jesus' second coming was imminent, so there was no need to work and earn a living. It could also be that this group found menial labor beneath them and wanted nothing to do with it. Finally, it could be a group of individuals who had grown accustomed, possibly even entitled, to the church's generosity and did not want to have to work in return. But Paul is clear: he worked and they would work too.  Whatever their motivations, this group was disruptive and creating problems within the church. They would not be allowed to take advantage of the church's generosity.   As Christ-followers, we have clear commands from Jesus to care for the least of these. Jesus fed the hungry and cared for those who had little. The early church was obviously following the example of Christ and offering food to those who asked for it. But at some point, giving can lead to entitlement.  Paul was certainly alluding to that.  Many of you know my background involves extensive work with homeless families and people in crisis. I've struggled with these issues for years, but this is basically where I've landed; we are called to care for the needy but we never want to harm others by destroying initiative or creating dependency. Historically, church outreach programs have engaged in one-directional giving, things like food giveaways, clothes closets, and soup kitchens. While there is a place for such ministry, it must be limited and targeted. Relief must be limited to times of crisis. But after the crisis is over, the kind of help needs to change.  To see meaningful change, we must address root causes, building real relationships and working with ministries that empower people to make hard but necessary long-term transformation.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Have you ever worked for a company or organization with a toxic workplace culture – the kind that not only made it unpleasant for the employees but also for customers and clients?  On the flipside, have you ever worked for a place where the culture was so positive that employees stayed for years and customers and clients became friends and partners? Dee Ann Turner, an expert on stewarding talent, says that "culture is the soul of the organization." And incredible culture is built through core values that are demonstrated – not just stated. Like the old adage says: actions speak louder than words. As Christ-followers we already have a given set of core values! BUT are you demonstrating those core values at work? Remember, the WAY that you work is equally as influential to your testimony as what you say you believe! 

In week three of The Church Imagined series, we explored another identity-shaping image of the church in the New Testament: the Royal Priesthood. 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us that the church is not a building or an organization, but a holy people chosen by God, called out of darkness, and set apart to proclaim His praises.By looking back the role of the Jewish priesthood in the Old Testament, we saw how Jesus fulfilled the priestly system once and for all as our Great High Priest. Because of His death, resurrection, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, God has now made the church itself His royal and holy priesthood.The sermon focused on three key aspects of this calling: priestly clothing, priestly duties, and priestly portion. From Colossians 3, we were challenged to “put on” spiritual clothing such as compassion, humility, forgiveness, and love. We were also reminded  that just as the priests of old had duties, we too as a royal priesthood have responsibilities today: praying and interceding for others, caring for God's temple by loving one another and using our spiritual gifts, and teaching the Word of Christ through both instruction and example. Finally, we reflected on our greatest inheritance as God's priests: the Lord Himself, our portion now and for eternity.As Christ's church, we are a royal priesthood so that we may proclaim the praises of the One who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. May this truth shape how we live and serve together!

In this message, Bishop McBath reminds us that the Church's core calling is reconciliation—not division. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 5:11–21, he teaches that reconciliation begins with our broken relationship with God, not merely our broken relationships with one another. Through Christ's sacrificial love, we are reconnected to God purely by grace, not merit. But reconciliation doesn't stop there. God entrusts reconciled people with a reconciled mission. As Christ's ambassadors, we now represent a new kingdom, guided by a new love and a new way of leading—making decisions about others based on grace, not race.

In this message, Bishop McBath reminds us that the Church's core calling is reconciliation—not division. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 5:11–21, he teaches that reconciliation begins with our broken relationship with God, not merely our broken relationships with one another. Through Christ's sacrificial love, we are reconnected to God purely by grace, not merit. But reconciliation doesn't stop there. God entrusts reconciled people with a reconciled mission. As Christ's ambassadors, we now represent a new kingdom, guided by a new love and a new way of leading—making decisions about others based on grace, not race.

At Bethany, We are God's People who are: Gathered! Connected! Sent!We want to connect with you through this Podcast! Leave us a comment! Tell us where you are at! Leave a Review to help our audience grow!--January 11, 2026 -- Rev. Seth Moorman -- "Jesus' Baptism - Your Baptism" -- Matt. 3:13-17; Rom. 6:3 -11(Matt. 3) 13 Then Jesus appeared. He came from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. 14 But John tried to stop him and said, “I need to be baptized by you. Why are you coming to me?” 15 Jesus answered him, “This is the way it has to be now. This is the proper way to do everything that God requires of us.” Then John gave in to him. 16 After Jesus was baptized, he immediately came up from the water. Suddenly, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God coming down as a dove to him. 17 Then a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love—my Son with whom I am pleased.” (Rom. 6) 3 Don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 When we were baptized into his death, we were placed into the tomb with him. As Christ was brought back from death to life by the glorious power of the Father, so we, too, should live a new kind of life. 5 If we've become united with him in a death like his, certainly we will also be united with him when we come back to life as he did. 6 We know that the person we used to be was crucified with him to put an end to sin in our bodies. Because of this we are no longer slaves to sin. 7 The person who has died has been freed from sin. 8 If we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. 9 We know that Christ, who was brought back to life, will never die again. Death no longer has any power over him. 10 When he died, he died once and for all to sin's power. But now he lives, and he lives for God. 11 So consider yourselves dead to sin's power but living for God in the power Christ Jesus gives you. --GWhttp://www.bethanylutheran.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.facebook.com/Bethany.Long.Beach⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.youtube.com/c/BethanyLutheranLongBeach

As Christ followers, our goal isn't just to dabble in Scripture, but to grow deep roots in it. By learning to understand God's purpose and plan for Scripture, we can move beyond simply dabbling in it and allow our roots to grow, strong and deep. Psalm 1; 2 Timothy 3:16 Speaker: Kyle Idleman

"I AM The Way, The Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by me." In basic truth, no one comes to the Father but by the Jesus Christ. This is the foundation and fundamental truth of Christianity. There is no other way. We have access to the Father through the offering of the body and blood Jesus. This is the only way. However, looking at this from a deeper view, we could say no one comes to who and what the Father is but in Christ. Christ Jesus reveals who and what the Father is. "If you have seen me you have seen the Father." The substance of God is only seen and known in Christ. There is no other way to know His substance. As Christ is revealed we know God intimately and personally. Christ is God's Word. God's Word made flesh and God's Word revealed. Glory to God!

I can well remember as a child singing the great gospel song, “Standing on the Promises”. Maybe you sang it, too. I remember the words well: Standing on the promises of Christ my King, Through eternal ages let his praises ring; Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing, Standing on the promises of God. It's not a song we sing much anymore, but the message is still relevant. As Christ-followers, we can stand on the promises given to us through God's Word. What does that mean—to stand on the promises of God? Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful (Hebrews 10:23). Promises are as reliable as the one who makes them. God has made many promises to us, and he never forgets any of them. He is a trustworthy and faithful God. Standing on the promises of God is confident assurance in what God has promised us. That means you keep standing, even when your faith is weak. Hebrews 10:36 exhorts us to keep on patiently doing the Lord's will so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. If your faith is starting to waiver, if you haven't yet seen God's answer to your need, I encourage you to keep standing—keep on doing the Lord's will, and you will receive what he has promised. Ephesians 6:13 says after you have done everything, to stand. Just keep standing on the promises of God. Stand when you're tired; stand when you want to quit and run away; stand when your faith is weak. After you have done everything, keep standing on the promises of God, for he who promised is faithful.

As Christ-followers, we have hope that the world does not have. Hebrews puts it as an anchor of our soul, sure and steadfast, in heaven, in the presence of God.Tune in this week as Pastor Thomas shares a vulnerable message about trials we face, their purpose, and the hope that remains.If you would like to partner with BLVD Church and what we are doing in the community, you can make an investment of support at https://blvd.church/give

We keep in step with the Spirit by a continual surrendering of our lives to the will of God. His will is revealed to us in His Word. As we follow and obey the Word of God, we are walking by the Spirit. As we abide with Jesus through prayer and worship, our hearts stay in tune with the Holy Spirit.Main Points:1. In the New Testament book of Galatians, the Apostle Paul instructs us to keep up with the Holy Spirit. God is leading our lives. We have put Him in the driver's seat. We have yielded the control of our lives to Him. In fact, we have made Him the Lord of our lives. Our job is to follow. We don't know where we are to go or how we are to live, so we must follow. 2. As Christ followers we have given up being the master of our own lives because we have discovered a better master. We've discovered that following Jesus is worth it and there is no better life to live.3. As you draw near to God, listen for the voice of the Holy Spirit as He guides you to walk in step with Him. Today's Scripture Verses:Galatians 5:25 - “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.Galatians 5:16 - “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”Galatians 5:24 - “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

In today's God Sighting, Chris Nolan, Parish Outreach Coordinator at St. Mark's in City Heights, shares a brief reflection on a moment when God's presence became visible in an unexpected way. As Christ's light stretches into these days, may you notice how God meets you right where you are.To learn more about St. Mark's, visit: https://stmarks-cityheights.org/Faith to Go is a ministry of The Episcopal Diocese of San Diego. Click here to learn more about EDSD's great work in our region and how you can support this ministry.Remember to get in contact with us!Email: faithtogo@edsd.orgInstagram: @faithtogo

Something we often forget is that the Church teaches that Mary is the mother of Christ but she also mothers Christ in us! As Christ was born of Mary 2000 years ago, she still gives birth to him in me and you. May we turn to our Mother in this New Year, that she will love us into greater openness to Christ, that he will be born anew in us!

As Christ followers, we believe the Bible is God's infallible and eternal Word. Pastor Jack Graham challenges us today to be systematic and faithful in the reading, studying, hearing, applying and sharing of God's Word. In knowing God's Word, he says, we know the God of the Word. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/395/29?v=20251111

As Christ followers, our festivity doesn't end at Christmas. Thanks to Jesus, we have a festive future. In today's message, Pastor Jeff Ables teaches how to know the festive future that God has prepared for us. Prayed to accept Jesus? Congratulations! Text SAVED to 337-222-3210 or click here https://bit.ly/CC_saved New to Crossroads Church? Learn all about us at https://mycrossroads.org 

As Christ the Center closes out another year of weekly theological conversation, this special episode reflects on God's faithfulness throughout 2025 by revisiting the most-watched and most-listened-to episodes of the year. Drawing from YouTube engagement, Camden Bucey highlights ten conversations that resonated deeply with listeners—spanning biblical exegesis, redemptive-historical interpretation, Trinitarian theology, apologetics, and pastoral formation. Together, these clips showcase the breadth of Reformed Forum's work: rigorous scholarship, confessional clarity, and a steady commitment to Christ-centered interpretation of Scripture. The episode also celebrates significant ministry milestones: thousands of students served through Reformed Academy, international reading cohorts across six continents, new books published, and the largest theology conference in Reformed Forum's history. Framed by the theme "Growing Together into Christ" (Ephesians 4:15–16), this highlights episode not only looks back with gratitude but looks forward with confidence—inviting listeners to partner in the ongoing work of theological education for the church worldwide. Watch on YouTube Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:00:57 Looking Forward to 2026 00:01:38 Growing Together into Christ 00:04:26 Top 10 Episodes of 2025 00:05:05 Greg Beale | The Use of the Old Testament in Colossians (YouTube) 00:08:59 Van Til Group #15 — A Critique of Mathison's Toward a Reformed Apologetics (YouTube) 00:19:44 Robert Letham | The Holy Spirit (YouTube) 00:23:57 David Saxton | Biblical Meditation: God's Battle Plan for the Mind (YouTube) 00:29:04 William Dennison | Van Til and the Problem of Evil (YouTube) 00:34:28 Danny Olinger | Meredith G. Kline's Biblical-Theological Reading of the Book of Revelation (YouTube) 00:45:06 Marcus Mininger | Redemptive-Historical Interpretation (YouTube) 00:51:14 Vos Group #99 — Millennial Views and Modern Theories of the Kingdom (YouTube) 00:59:37 Marcus Mininger | Impossible to Be Restored? Temptation and Warning in the Epistle of Hebrews (YouTube) 01:14:02 J. Brandon Burks | The Puritans and the Salem Witch Trials (YouTube) 01:19:38 Conclusion Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Danny Olinger, David Saxton, Greg Beale, J. Brandon Burks, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton, Marcus Mininger, Robert Letham This is Christ the Center episode 939 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc939)

As Christ the Center closes out another year of weekly theological conversation, this special episode reflects on God's faithfulness throughout 2025 by revisiting the most-watched and most-listened-to episodes of the […]

As Christ's living body, though, we are called to do more than be filled with the Spirit; we are commanded to serve God's rich blessing to others.Subscribe to daily devotions e-mails: https://wcm.link/ddsub

Advent: Love Lifts All Places - Jason Miller (Guest) Many of us yearn for sacred spaces, believing true purpose lies elsewhere—in a grander city or a different life. But what if the divine arrives not where we expect, but in the ordinary, even out-of-the-way places we inhabit?In this Advent message, Jason reflects on his deeply personal connection to South Bend, Indiana, and how a fresh reading of the Christmas story in Luke's Gospel challenges our assumptions about sacred geography, quietly elevating Bethlehem—an unexpected and unimpressive town—into a place of profound divine significance.Through this lens, we are invited to see how God's presence has the power to transform any place, and any circumstance, into sacred ground when met with love. As Christ enters the world, our everyday “Bethlehems” are lifted up, becoming spaces of meaning, hope, and the tangible presence of God.Chapters/Timestamps:[00:52] Notice: Christmas Compassion Appeal 2025[03:20] Introduction to Jason Miller and South Bend City Church [06:53] Sermon - Jason MillerAbout Jason Miller Jason serves as a pastor at South Bend City Church (IN, USA), a sister church and kindred community to us at Redeemer Central. SBCC are described as 'community of grace & peace for our city and the world', a Jesus-centred community not afraid to wrestle with the tensions of ancient faith in a modern world. He is also the author of When The World Breaks: The Surprising Hope and Subversive Promises in the Teachings of Jesus.

Peter Rosenberger explores the rising conversation around Christian nationalism,what it is, who promotes it, and how it aligns with Scripture. As "Christ is King" trends online, Peter asks a deeper question: Where is the call to repent?

In this message, Ps. Jake teaches on the importance of living a lifestyle of revelation, where every encounter with God transforms us to reflect Jesus more clearly. As Christ is revealed in us, our lives become a living testimony of His power, presence, and purpose—marked by miracles that flow from intimacy with Him.

Though Hebrews 6 unpacks six core principles—repentance from dead works, faith toward God, baptisms, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment—that trace the believer's life from new birth to final destiny, we hone in our focus on Eternal Judgment.We press into the hard but hopeful truth: judgment begins in the house of God. Ezekiel 34 confronts shepherds who feed themselves while neglecting the weak, and that pattern still speaks today. Then we follow Jesus' strategy in Matthew 10: seek the “worthy,” let peace rest where the message is received, and shake the dust where it is not. Worthiness is not status; it's reception. As Christ later pronounces woes on cities that witnessed miracles yet refused to repent, the stakes become clear—greater light brings greater responsibility. Rejecting the messenger means rejecting the One who sent him, and reception brings the first blessing of peace and hope.We also hold up a mirror to our religious reflexes. Jesus names the Pharisees' hypocrisy: heavy burdens, polished appearances, fixation on tithes while ignoring justice, mercy, and faith. That indictment challenges modern church culture to lift burdens, prioritize the wounded, and keep the weightier matters central. The call is simple and searching: preach the gospel, discern hunger, invest where the word is received, and move on without rancor. For every listener wrestling with spiritual leadership, mission, and endurance, this conversation offers clarity, courage, and a path toward the resurrection of the just."Message Our Father's Heart a Question or Response"Support the showThank you so much for listening and sharing with others! We would very much appreciate you continuing to FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, and LIKE us through any of the following platforms:Substack: htt​ps://ourfathersheart.substack.com/Website: ourfathersheart.orgPodcast: https://ourfathersheart.buzzsprout.com/shareTwitter: https://twitter.com/@ofathersheart Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ofathersheartYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ourfathersheartMay God bless you and make you prosperous in Him as you listen and obey His voice!

In this episode, we walk through Philippians 3 and explore what Paul calls “a new way of becoming.” It's a life marked by pursuing Christ, letting go of the past, and pressing toward God's upward call. But this transformation isn't just personal—it's missional. As Christ reshapes us, He sends us out to impact the world around us. Join us as we unpack how spiritual maturity fuels a life on mission.Today's scripture passage is found in Philippians 3WANT MORE CONTENT?Click the link below to see the teaching that's tied to this podcastwww.genesischurchorlando.com/sermonsDISCUSSION GUIDE BELOW (COMING SOON) ⬇️ !!!GOT QUESTIONS?DM us on our Instagram and/or TikTok or email us at postsundaypodcast@gmail.comLIKE, SUBSCRIBE and leave a 5 star REVIEW on Spotify & iTunes.PSP Social Media at:Instagram: @postsundaypodcastYoutube.com/postsundaypodcastTiktok.com/postsunday.podcastTwitter.com/postsundaypodcastThread: @postsundaypodcast

Seeing Others as Christ Sees: The Gospel Call Revealed in Soldiers and Saints I was hungry. You fed me thirsty. You gave me to drink. I was alone, and you were with me. I was naked and you clothed me. This marvelously simple description of the greatness of Christian life. That ability, not so much to see Jesus in each other as to see others as Jesus sees them. Today's Gospel draws from Matthew's teaching on the Final Judgment, . . . . . . where Jesus separates people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats, praising those who cared for “the least of His brothers.” The Homily then focuses on Saint Martin of Tours, a soldier-turned-bishop whose famous act of charity . . . cutting his cloak to clothe a beggar . . . reveals the heart of the Gospel: seeing others as Christ sees them and responding with compassion. Martin's life of disciplined holiness, service, and unwavering focus on Christ is presented as a model of Christian discipleship. Seeing Others as Christ Sees Them The Homily also highlights two American military chaplains whose causes for sainthood are advancing: Father Vincent Capodanno, a Marine chaplain killed in Vietnam after repeatedly risking his life to save wounded soldiers, and Father Emil Kapaun, a Korean War chaplain known for heroic sacrifice, spiritual strength, and care for fellow prisoners of war. Each embodies Christlike service . . . feeding the hungry, comforting the suffering, and valuing every human life. On Veterans Day, the Homily emphasizes that the vocation of a soldier, when lived with compassion and courage, mirrors the Gospel call to serve others. As Christ nourishes and strengthens us in the Eucharist, we are sent forth to care for the hungry, the thirsty, and the vulnerable in our own lives, following the example of these remarkable witnesses. Listen to: Seeing Others as Christ Sees: The Gospel Call Revealed in Soldiers and Saints --------------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work Seeing Others as Christ Sees: The Gospel Call Revealed in Soldiers and Saints : AI and Queen of All Hearts' Digital Team: 2025

In this episode, Fr. Anthony reflects on Christ's call of St. Matthew as a revelation of the Lord's pastoral wisdom, patience, and mercy. Drawing on St. John Chrysostom, he shows how Christ approaches each person at the moment they are most able to receive Him, gently leading sinners to repentance while shielding the weak from the self-righteous. The homily invites us to imitate this divine pedagogy—offering mercy before rebuke, healing before judgment, and a way of life that draws others to the knowledge of God. +++ Mercy, Not Sacrifice: Christ's Pastoral Method in the Calling of Matthew St. Matthew 9:9-13 At that time, as Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax office; and He said to him, "Follow Me." And he rose and followed Him. And as He sat at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Jesus and His disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" But when Jesus heard it, He said, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."  When looking at this encounter, it is important to know the context.  Jesus had been at this for a while.  He had already called at least four of the twelve; Andrew, Peter, James and John, to be his disciples.  Moreover, in addition to them, many others were following him.  He had already been baptized, been tempted, given the Sermon on the Mount and performed several public miracles. Knowing this allows us to better appreciate Christ, how He operates, and therefore how we might better imitate Him as we claim to operate in + His name. Example One: Calling the disciples Let's go back to His calling the disciples.  Why didn't He call Matthew at the same time He called Andrew, Peter, James, and John?  St. John Chrysostom indicates that it was Christ's pastoral heart that determined when we called each of His disciples.  Remember, as the Logos, He shares the Father's will that "all be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth." (1 Timothy 2:4).  This means that He addressed people in the time and manner they were most likely to hear.  St. John Chrysostom points out that Matthew's heart was not open to Christ's call at the same time as Andrew, Peter, James, and John.  It took miracles and profound teaching to soften His heart for the encounter.  And He didn't just do this for Matthew, look how long it took for the Apostle Paul!  And perhaps, we can look at long he waited for us! We should learn from this lesson from Christ's earthly ministry and imitate Him.  We may need to live among some people for a while, showing the miracle of God's love working in and through us in the way we act and the things we say, before they are ready to accept an invitation to join us in The Way that heals and perfects.  Many of us jump the gun; skipping the vital step of living a public life of miraculous love – and then are surprised when the call to "follow Christ" goes unheeded.  Yes, there are times when the modern equivalents of scribes and pharisees need to be confronted, but once again, let's imitate Christ and let them out themselves when they question our motives and sanity for performing acts of sacrificial compassion.  If we skip the step of imitating Christ in His love for mankind, not only won't we win converts, we may also be indicating that we aren't really working in His Name at all.   Example Two: Leaving, not owning the opposition Speaking of which, Christ also demonstrates his pastoral care at the very beginning of today's lesson.  You may remember that today's lesson begins with something that seems to be a throwaway line; a transitional clause that lets the reader know that the narrative is moving on to another scene.  St. Matthew writes; "At that time, as Jesus passed on from there,…" and then segues into this lesson about how Christ called him, the author, to be His disciple.  But what did He leave and why?  What did He "pass on" from in the previous scene? Let me share that with you; just prior to this, Jesus had publicly corrected some scribes - leaders in the Jewish community - by healing a man of his paralysis after they doubted His ability to forgive sins.  Do you see how they out themselves as fools?  But Christ doesn't want them to remain in ignorance.  He desires that they, too, be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth …  but He also knew that they were not ready to accept the truth, so He left before they could double down on their sin and thus become even less likely to change their way of thinking and eventually answer His call to discipleship. As St. John Christostom puts it; For when He had performed the miracle, He did not remain, lest, being in sight, He should kindle their jealousy the more; but He indulges them by retiring, and soothing their passion. This then let us also do, not encountering them that are plotting against us; let us rather soothe their wound, giving way and relaxing their vehemence. Jesus could have owned those scribes!   This is what our polarized and self-indulgent culture seems to require of us: to immediately jump on any perceived weakness to show the superiority of our way.  We even manufacture offenses so that we have an opportunity to score points and play to the crowd.  But that's not what Jesus did; there was a real offense and a real weakness – but He didn't want or need to impress anyone.  Again, his desire is that of His Father; that all be saved and come to a knowledge of the Truth.  And so He forbeared and gave them an opportunity to cool off and repent while He moved off to spend time with someone who was ready to hear Him. These are the kinds of lessons that are obvious to those who have "eyes to see and ears to hear," but for the rest of us, it takes time.  As we have discussed previously, we still see the Gospel "through a glass darkly" and only see reality as "trees walking."  But we want to learn, and so we ask those who have made this journey successfully before us, men like the Holy Apostle and Evanglist Matthew, whose memory we celebrate today and St. John Chrysostom who shares the deeper Truths that St. Matthew shared – we ask them to guide and pray for us as go deeper into The Way. Let's see what more we can learn about Christ's approach to evangelism and pastoral care in today's lesson.  It is worth remembering that Matthew was a tax collector.  When Jesus gave him the invitation to "follow me", he responded with hospitality.  He opened his house to the Lord, his disciples, fellow tax collectors, and unspecified sinners.  Just to make sure everyone had a good time, this was all done within view of some local Pharisees.  The Pharisees spent their whole lives dedicated to righteousness (as should all of us).  I am perfectly willing to believe that they were sincere in their devotion to the Law.  In fact, it was probably their devotion to the Law that led to their revulsion at seeing an alleged rabbi (Jesus) eating with sinners.  They shared their righteous indignation with the Lord's disciples and He overheard them.  We can learn a lot about how to pastoral ministry by looking at Christ's response. First, He said (e.g. St. Mark 2:17); Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick do. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.  This is the most obvious point: God was explaining what His mission to these sinners (and the world) was:  He had come to bring them to repentance.  This would hardly satisfy any ultra-Orthodox takfirists – they always want their pound of flesh!  After all, they say, repentance requires tears, and the best way to bring someone to tears is not to eat with them and provide them a living example of the better way; no, surely it is more effective to beat them over the head with the Sin-Stick, right?!  Evidently not, at least according to the all-knowing and all-loving God-man Jesus Christ. After acknowledging the sinfulness of His dinner companions and their need for repentance, He corrected the Pharisees' dubious pedagogical and evangelical instincts with this (e.g. St. Matthew himself in 9:13); Go and learn what it means, 'I will have mercy, and not sacrifice': for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Christ is quoting Hosea when He says; "I will have mercy, and not sacrifice".  The full passage (which was implied) continues with (Hosea 6:6); "… and [I desire] the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings."  This is huge.  The Pharisees knew the full quote and its context; they would have seen that Christ was telling them that they were guilty of the very same sorts of things that went against God throughout the Old Testament.  He was telling them that they were more concerned with fulfilling the letter of the law (i.e. doing the "burnt offerings" well) than they were with knowing God or bringing others to Him.  At that meal, He was doing something that they should have been doing themselves. How Christ Discipled His Sinners cum Apostles More importantly, along with His entire response, Christ used this quote to describe His method for bringing the "knowledge of God" to sinners; He would use mercy to lead them to repentance, which would in turn allow them to grow in the knowledge of God.   St. John Chrysostom brings this point out at the end of his homily on this passage; What Christ is saying through his words and deads is this, "The disciples have not yet become strong; they still need a lot of condescension. They have not been renewed by the Spirit yet.  You really shouldn't put a lot of injunctions on people who are still weak."  And He said all these things in order to set laws and rules for His own disciples, so that when it was their turn to train disciples, they would deal with them very gently.  To reiterate St. John Chrysostom's point, God is showing His disciples how the Gospel is to be taught: gently and with mercy … while protecting the weak from the attacks of the self-righteous.  This is important for us as Christian leaders: we are called to follow Christ!  We are called to take His Gospel to sinners so that they might repent,  come to the knowledge of God, and be saved.  Keep the Sin-Stick ready, but use it the way Christ Himself did; to defend the weak from the attacks of the self-righteous. There is a temptation to bring sinners to a full awareness of their sin in order to drive them towards repentance, but be careful with this.   Psalm 129: 3-4 (which we often repeat as a prokimen so that we will master it – or rather so that it might master us);  If thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with thee. And later in that same Psalm, we learn from the Psalmist, in the Spirt, what the purpose of this merciful forgivness is; so that He might bring salvation to Israel (129:8). Repentance, kenosis, and discernment are fostered over time.  It is an iterated and communal process.  The wounds this world inflicts on God's children are serious and it takes time for Him to heal them.  This means that you may not be able to see the process through to its conclusion, but it is okay to simply begin the treatment; the Church has trained other physicians that can continue the process, just as you will be called to continue the work others have begun.  As Christ said "One soweth, and another reapeth." (St. John 4:37:4) Conclusion Saint Matthew's life is a testimony to the efficacy of this gentle discipleship process.  He was a sinner.  The Lord protected Him and showed Him mercy.  Over time, through His example, His holiness, and His teachings, He brought Matthew through repentance to the true knowledge of God.  As a recipient of this grace, St. Matthew could do nothing else but offer it to others.   It is true that the Church is a hospital, and that Christ is the Great Physician; and it is also true that St. Matthew found healing in the Church under the Doctor's care.  But it is also true that He did not stay in the hospital bed. After a lifetime spent spreading the Gospel, this "good and faithful servant" earned the martyr's crown in Ethiopia. May the Lord transform us into the kind of patient, merciful, and holy pastors who can do the same.

When accusations or misunderstandings come against your faith, what does it look like to give a Christ-centered defense rather than a self-defensive reaction? In his sermon: “Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Lose!” centered on Acts 24:1 – 25:12, Pastor Josiah walks us into the Roman courtroom of Caesarea, where the apostle Paul stands accused before Governor Felix. Surrounded by power, politics, and hostility, Paul defends himself not with manipulation but with conviction—his worship is to the Lord, his hope is anchored in the resurrection, and his conscience is clear before God and man. This passage reveals that the gospel itself, not merely Paul, is on trial—and that even in chains, God's mission is unstoppable.As Christ's chosen people, we are called to live with integrity and to boldly defend His truth before all. When our eyes are fixed on Christ and our hearts are full of love for Him, we truly can't lose—because even through persecution and hardship, the gospel advances, God's purposes prevail, and His truth cannot be silenced.

Pastor Terry's message reminds us that giving God our best is about excellence, not perfection. Like Daniel, we're called to develop a spirit of excellence from the inside out, allowing God to shape our hearts and attitudes. As Christ's representatives, we honor Him through the way we live, serve, and interact with others, showing His love in everything we do.

The whole of Jesus' life was lived under the shadow of the cross. As Christ faithfully served His Father each day, the agony of Calvary loomed ever nearer. Today, Sinclair Ferguson begins to reflect on the life of our Lord. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/things-unseen-with-sinclair-ferguson/living-under-the-shadow-of-the-cross/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

As Christ followers our present and our future is eternal life in Jesus Christ

Have you ever looked back and felt the sting of a missed opportunity? In Missed Opportunities and Growth, Vivian Bricker reflects on Ephesians 5:15-17 and reminds us that while fear can cause us to step back from God-given opportunities, His grace still leads us to growth. Even when we stumble, God redeems our regrets and uses them to strengthen our walk with Him. Highlights Ephesians 5:15-17 calls us to live wisely and make the most of every opportunity. Fear often blocks us from stepping into new seasons of growth. Missed opportunities can lead to regret—but also reflection and transformation. God provides continual chances to grow in wisdom, courage, and faith. Learning from setbacks prepares us for future opportunities aligned with His will. Join the Conversation Have you missed an opportunity God placed in your path? How did He use that moment to help you grow? Share your story and encourage others to walk in wisdom and courage. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #FaithAndOpportunities #GodRedeemsRegret #WalkInWisdom to join the conversation.

As Christ-followers, we see in Acts that any opposition we face—while not pleasant—makes sense. Jesus taught it, and the Bible records it. Acts is much like the Bible's playbook for what to do with our faith in Jesus.  That is to believe it, hold tight to it, and spread and share it with others.   

On today's PowerPoint, Pastor Jack Graham takes a special look at heaven and the resurrected body. Heaven is a real, tangible place, Pastor Graham teaches. As Christ followers, we will live in a perfect place with a perfect Savior and a perfected state of life. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/395/29

Our world is burdened by the broken place of hatred. We see discrimination, racism, genocide, dehumanization, and segregation along so many different lines (gender, age, race, nationality, ability, etc.). Most of the time when we try to fix these problems, however, we don't acknowledge the fact that these are outcomes of a much longer path of hatred which starts anytime we see ourselves as better than the “other” we are encountering. To heal the broken place of hatred, we must walk an entirely different path: the path of self-giving love. In Philippians 2:1-11, Paul pleads with the church in Philippi to “love one another” and “work together with one mind and purpose.” To do this, he suggests we must have “the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.” And how did Jesus live? He walked the path of self-giving love. Even though he had all power in the universe, he “gave up his divine privileges,” lowered himself in humility, and lifted broken humanity up through his self-sacrificial love on the cross. As Christ's church, we can show the world an alternative to the hatred we see around us. When we encounter “others,” we must follow our savior down the humble path he chose to walk.

Christ is the perfect manifestation and revelation of God.Colossians 1:15, Hebrews 1:1-3, John 14:9 Christ is eternally sovereign and supreme over creation.Colossians 1:15, Psalm 89:27 Christ is the creator and sustainer of all things.Colossians 1:16-17, John 1:3, 2 Timothy 4:1 Christ is the head of His Church.Colossians 1:18, Ephesians 1:22-23, Galatians 3:28 Christ is the firstfruits of resurrected bodies.Colossians 1:18, Matthew 10:28, 1 Corinthians 15:20, Philippians 3:20-21 Christ is fully God and fully man.Colossians 1:19, 2:9 Christ is the reconciler of all things.Colossians 1:20-23, 1 Corinthians 1:7-9  Is it clear in every area of my life that the worship of Christ is preeminent?Colossians 1:18 As Christ's ambassadors, are we fulfilling our God-appointed ministry of declaring Christ's message of reconciliation to the world?2 Corinthians 5:17-21 --------DAILY DEVOTIONAL WITH RON MOOREGet Ron's Daily Devotional to your inbox each morning; visit biblechapel.org/devo.CAREGIVINGDo you have a need we can pray for? Do you need someone to walk alongside you? Do you know of another person who needs care? Let us know at caregiving@biblechapel.org.GROWTH TRACKWe all have a next step - what's yours? To learn more about our Growth Track and to take your next step, biblechapel.org/connect.

Jesus enters Jerusalem on a colt; a public display of His lineage to David and of His divine kingship. Jesus comes with peace and sorrow as He weeps for the people He would die for who reject Him. As Christ-followers, we are the exemplify the traits of our Savior, concerned for those who have yet to repent of their sin and turn towards the Prince of Peace.

As Christ-followers, the Bible says we should put no confidence in the flesh. It's pretty undependable. But you can and should be totally God-confident. Confident that you have become a child of God through faith in Jesus Christ and confident that God has good plans for you—good works for you to do which he determined before you were born. There's nothing to be gained by being constrained and handcuffed by a lack of confidence. James put it this way: But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do (James 1:6 – 8). James says if you're blown and tossed—like happens with lack of confidence—you are unstable in all your ways. You need confidence to be what God created you to be and do the good works he put you here to do. And the confidence you need is not self-confidence, but rather it is God-confidence. What is hindering you from this God-confident life? Many times, it is the constant thought you simply are not good enough. Thoughts like: you've sinned too much; your past is too bad; you can never be worthy. You know where that comes from, don't you? Satan will tell you lies about yourself, like thinking you're not good enough. But remember this wonderful truth. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1). Whether condemnation is coming at you from others or yourself, you are believing a lie because God never deals with us through condemnation—making us feel unworthy and without hope. The Holy Spirit who indwells every believer will convict you of sin for the purpose of helping you repent and get rid of the drag on your spiritual life. But God never deals with you through condemnation; that's what the enemy tries to do. When the enemy is successful at destroying your God-confidence by his sneaky and sinister words of condemnation, he is keeping you from the joy of the Lord, which is your strength, and from the abundant life Jesus died to give you. You're missing all the good stuff! But there's hope in Jesus!

The cross finished what we could never do—your old life is gone, and a new creation has come. As Christ takes center stage, He must increase, and everything else fades into the background. What remains is not striving or self-denial, but the joy of His life fully alive in you.

The cross finished what we could never do—your old life is gone, and a new creation has come. As Christ takes center stage, He must increase, and everything else fades into the background. What remains is not striving or self-denial, but the joy of His life fully alive in you.

As Moses approached the end of his life, his focus wasn’t on regret, bitterness, or personal loss—it was on God’s people. In Numbers 27:15-17, Moses prayed that the Lord would appoint a leader to guide Israel so they wouldn’t be “like sheep without a shepherd.” Despite his mistakes and missed opportunities, Moses left a legacy of faith, humility, and care for God’s people. This devotional reminds us that true spiritual leadership looks beyond ourselves and points others toward the ultimate Good Shepherd—Jesus—who leads us into rest, protection, and eternal promise. ✨ Highlights Moses’ selfless prayer — Even at the end of his life, Moses was focused on God’s people, not his own loss A legacy of faith — Despite failure, Moses’ life still pointed others toward God’s promises Jesus, our ultimate Shepherd — The fulfillment of Moses’ prayer is found in Jesus, who leads us to spiritual safety and rest (John 10:11) Kingdom perspective — God calls us to live with an eternal mindset, thinking beyond our present circumstances and investing in future generations Carrying God’s light — As Christ-followers, we are called to shine His light wherever we go and leave the world “better than we found it”

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:6) As Christ hung on the cross, the Jewish leaders ... More...

Send us a textEphesians 1Paul's letter to the Ephesians opens by praising God for His spiritual blessings in Christ and highlighting God's predestined plan, choosing before the foundation of the world to make believers holy and blameless. Through Jesus, we have redemption, forgiveness of sins, and the riches of God's grace. Paul emphasizes that God's purpose is to unite all things in Christ, both in heaven and on earth. He then speaks of the Holy Spirit as the guarantee of our inheritance, sealing believers until final redemption. Paul prays that the Ephesians grow in wisdom and knowledge of God, understanding the hope of their calling and the immeasurable power at work in them. He concludes by exalting Christ as the head over all things, seated at God's right hand with authority over all creation. Our identity in Christ gives us confidence and purpose, reminding us that we are chosen, redeemed, and sealed with the Holy Spirit. Knowing that salvation comes by God's grace should lead us to live with gratitude and trust in His plan. This passage challenges us to seek deeper wisdom and understanding, growing in faith, and relying on His power. As Christ reigns with authority over all things, we are called to submit to Him, trusting that He is in control. Instead of living in fear or uncertainty, we should embrace the hope and inheritance we have in Him. Our response should be one of worship, obedience, and a commitment to living out His purpose as His church, the body of Christ.    Great Father, we pray that the eyes of our hearts may be enlightened, so that we will know what is the Hope of Your calling, what are the riches of the glory of Your inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of Christ's power toward us who believe. Please seal us with the Holy Spirit and preserve us eternally. Redeem us from sin, and help us understand our fellowship as Christ's body. Lead us to honor Him as our head and to function as one, unified in the effort to carry out His work in this world. Thought Questions: -       What does it mean to say that God “chose us in Him before the foundation of the world”? What part does your faith play in that process? -       The Holy Spirit has sealed believers and is a pledge of our inheritance. What does that mean to you, and how does it help your confidence? -       Christians must continue to grow in their knowledge of Jesus Christ. How can you ensure that your connection to Him continues to deepen?

Is Amanda Bynes crazy? We'll look at the top ten signs of Monarch Mind Control and then dig into the Ebola crisis and its possible results. Is our fear of Ebola more deadly than the disease? Are there mind controlled victims unknowingly bringing the Apocalypse? Fritz Springmeier brings his encyclopedic knowledge to decode and dispel popular beliefs and even makes a prediction of what we might see with Katy Perry at the Superbowl Halftime Extravaganza! Are you eating cloned meat? Is it possible for you to be cloned and will this lead to immortality? Which politicians have doubles? Fritz explores the Dulce New Mexico Underground and learns of super soldier's despair from being genetically modified. Let's learn the secrets to help repair the Trauma-Based Mind Control and stop the Apocalypse. Fritz Springmeier is foremost a follower of Yahshua the Messiah. He gave his life to Christ when he was 13. And believes that what happens with his life is not about himself but about Christ. As Christ wanted to save the world, Fritz has also done projects that would significantly help improve the world. He believes that we are called to love our enemies and do good to our enemies. Evil can not be overcome with more evil. His life can only be understood that Christ came to give us life and a more abundant life even in the here and now. Let us take care of the here and now to improve life.