Podcasts about Balaam

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Yud Beis Tammuz – 99 years: What does this day teach us? What happened on this day and what lessons does it offer us today? Why does the celebration of the Frierdiker Rebbe's liberation extend for two days – 12-13 Tammuz? Why is this month named after a Babylonian idol? What is the spiritual energy of this month? Is there a connection between the events of this day in 5754 and back in the time of Joshua when the sun was stopped? Is there something special about today, June 21, being the longest day of the year? Why didn't Joshua simply pray that the enemy be defeated? What is the mission of Chassidim who are not on shlichus? Is the Rebbe perfect? Follow-up What lessons do we learn from living with the times, with this week's Torah parsha? Can we heal people today by using a similar treatment to gazing at a serpent of brass mounted on a pole, as Moses was commanded? Why was Moses striking the rock such a great sin? Why was he not given the opportunity to do teshuva? Why were others not given the opportunity to do teshuva just as the sons of Korach were? What was the sin of Baal Pe'or? What lessons does this despicable sin offer us today? Why is a Parsha named after the evil Balak? What parts of Balaam's blessings were about Moshiach? What can we learn from Balaam's closing plot against the Jews? How should we react to the President's latest deal with Iran? Can we parallel the back-and-forth attitude of Iran to what Pharaoh and the Egyptians did regarding freeing the Jews? Tammuz Gimmel Tammuz Chukas-Balak Iran How is today's unrest in the Middle East a continuation of the unresolved conflict between Ishmael and Isaac? And what can we do to achieve permanent peace? Is it a good idea to allow my son to travel with a group to visit the concentration camps in Poland and Ukraine?

Can we hold on to what makes us different while still recognizing what unites us? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Moshe Silver explore the strange and fascinating story of Balaam in Parshat Balak. Why does an outsider become the source of some of the Torah's most enduring blessings? Through Balaam's encounters with God, they examine the challenge of monotheism in a world shaped by competing identities and loyalties. The conversation reflects on how belief in one God can create space for human diversity while calling us toward a deeper sense of shared responsibility and connection.

Did God speak through a donkey? Come Bible Study WITH ME through Numbers 22 and ask all the questions!

One of the strangest stories in the Torah is when Balaam decided to go and curse Israel but G-d sent obstacles to disuade him from going. One such event was when Balaam hit his donkey and the donkey began to speak back to him. JA fascinating discussion about the strange story of the talking donkey and the lessons for us today.

Some Very Good Bad ExamplesJude 4-16 Some Very Good Bad Examples: Jude 4-16 Ken Wilson For the bulletin in PDF form, click here.Message SlidesDefectors from What? - SwindollTheological Triage - MohlerFinding the Right Hills to Die On - Gavin OrtlandThe “Sons of God” in Genesis 6:1-4 - Allen RossCannonicity of the OT and NT - WilsonIntroduction: Bibles and Bible Reading - Some Surprising StatisticsThe Current Crisis(Godless False Teachers are in the Church.)• Predicted: False teachers have infiltrated the church (4a).• Perverted: False teachers pervert the grace of God (4b).• Profane: False teachers deny the Lordship of Christ (4b).The Past Precedent(Three Very Good Bad Examples Illustrate the Certainty of Judgment.)• Unbelieving Israel: Unbelievers were judged after being delivered (5).• Angels: Rebellious angels are kept in darkness for later judgment (6).• Sodom and Gomorrah: The perverse in the cities were judged by fire (7).The Present Parallel(Arrogance and Greed Characterize False Teachers.)• Conceited: False Teachers are arrogant and misunderstand authority (8-10).• Predictable: False Teachers are selfish [like Cain], greedy [like Balaam], and rebellious [like Korah] (11).• Dangerous: False Teachers are dangerous [like a hidden reef], selfish [like greedy shepherds], unsatisfying [like rainless clouds], dead [like a barren tree], shameful [like stormy waves], unreliable guides [like wandering stars], and destined for judgment (12-13).The Future Prospect(False Teachers will be Judged by God and Angels.)• Destiny: As Enoch prophesied, they will be judged by God (14-15).• Character: They're grumbling, critical, immoral, self-centered manipulators (16). The character and destiny of false teachers who will face an impartial and righteous judge should deter us from following them in the last days.UPG FOCUS: The Amma Kodaga are a small Hindu people group living in the hilly regions of southern India, where they farm crops like coffee and spices and live in close-knit, tradition-rich communities. They practice Hinduism, blending cultural rituals with deep respect for family and heritage. Though the NT is available in their language, there are no known believers among them. Pray that they would be drawn to Jesus, that disciples would be raised up among them, and that workers would go to share the gospel.FinancesWeekly Budget 34,615Giving For 06/07 76,526Giving For 06/14 37,554YTD Budget 1,730,769Giving 2,044,634 OVER/(UNDER) 313,865 Automate the ImportantWe understand that the summer months can be a whirlwind of new schedules and travel. To ensure the continuous growth of Fellowship's ministry, we encourage you to simplify your giving process by automating it. It's a straightforward and hassle-free process. Just visit fellowshipconway.org/give, click “Ready to Give?” then “Recurring,” and fill out the necessary information. If you need any assistance, feel free to reach out to John in our office at 501-327-3444 between 8:30 and 4:30, Monday through Thursday.New to Fellowship? We are so glad that you chose to worship with our Fellowship Family this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Fellowship Women's Watercolor NightPut Wednesday, July 29th at 6 pm on your calendar! Please bring yourself and a friend. All materials are supplied. We will all be practicing different watercolor techniques and participating in some fun watercolor activities! This will be fun for participants of all levels of experience. Remember: it's about the process, not the product! Register at fellowshipconway.org/register. RSVP to Shanna at 501-336-0332 for childcare.Fellowship Women's Recipe SwapSunday, July 12th, at 6 pm, join us at the home of Gale Allen: 63 Moseley Lane, Conway, for a fun evening of sharing favorite recipes, delicious food, and great fellowship! Tara Brown will be there to do a cooking demo! Bring a dish to share and a copy of your recipe. Feel free to invite a friend! Register at fellowshipconway.org/register.Help us Bless our VBS Volunteers!We're looking for people to sign up to provide snacks and treats throughout the week to keep our amazing volunteers energized as they serve. If you'd like to help please contact Ashley, Aoverstreet@fellowshipconway.org or Heather, Hfulmer@fellowshipconway.org Thank you for supporting those who are investing in the lives of our children! Widows' America 250 Luncheon Wear your red, white, or blue as we enjoy our special guests Colonel C. Jason Carter, USA Retired and Rebecca Carter Thursday, July 16 at noon, 3680 Gresham Dr. RSVP by July 2 to Judy, 501-329-3535 or Ambra, 501-730-6795.Men's Discussion GroupMen's Discussion Group starts back up July 2 with “Making Sense of God” by Timothy Keller. This book discussion will both strengthen your own faith and enhance your ability to productively engage with nonbelievers. We'll gain an understanding of how God makes so much more sense of identity, freedom, purpose, evil, and other experiences than a secular view does. We invite all men to join us; just get a copy of the book and join us for discussion in the FBC Library on Thursdays. Contact Andy at 501-314-9121 for information. Prayer During ServiceWe love to pray for one another. Our prayer team will have people at the front of the Auditorium under the signs Hope and Love to pray for you after the message. Please feel free to walk up to them for prayer or encouragement during the first worship song after the message.

Who Does the Lord Know? (1) (audio) David Eells, 6/21/26 We received a question regarding Matthew 7:23 and how these people could say they know the Lord, and yet the Lord says, “I never knew you”. Also, Some people think that they are lost people, or that they were never really saved. And so I thought we could look at that today and identify who the Lord knows and those whom the Lord said He never knew. Let's look first in Mat 7:15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves. The Bible talks about false prophets quite a bit in both the Old and New Testaments. Sometimes they don't appear to have been apostate, but in some cases, they definitely are. This is true in 2 Peter chapter 2; and the Christians he's talking about there. I believe the whole chapter really is about false prophets. 2Pe 2:15 forsaking the right way, they went astray, having followed the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the hire of wrong-doing; Of course, the only one that can forsake the right way is somebody who's been there, and obviously, they are being an apostate or fallen away in this case. For instance in 2Pe 2:20-21 For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein and overcome, the last state is become worse with them than the first. 21 For it were better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after knowing it, to turn back from the holy commandment delivered unto them. This and many other scriptures clearly refute the ”once saved always saved doctrine.  Another good example would be in Jude 11 Woe unto them! for they went in the way of Cain, and ran riotously in the error of Balaam for hire, and perished in the gainsaying of Korah. 12 These are they who are hidden rocks in your love-feasts when they feast with you, shepherds that without fear feed themselves; clouds without water, carried along by winds; autumn trees without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots; This includes those who fell into the error of trying to be “a profit” instead of a prophet. But I just wanted to make that point, because some people say that all false prophets are lost people, and that's just not the case. Of course, a lot of times, when we talk about Christians, we really should identify Christians the way the Bible identifies Christians, and not the way the worldly church identifies them. The way the worldly church identifies Christians now is those who have been born in spirit. Their spirit has been born from God, and they have a new spirit. But it is more than that. that's not the way the scriptures identify as Christians. Scriptures identify Christians as those who walk and talk the way Christ walked and talked. Also, there's a big difference between somebody who's just been born in spirit and those who walk the way Christ walked, because you can have Christ's spirit and not live His life as Paul exhorted Christians in Rom 8:13 for if ye live after the flesh, ye must die; but if by the Spirit ye put to death the deeds of the body, ye shall live. That's an exhortation given to those who have the spirit of Christ because he went on to exhort that those who have the spirit of Christ should go on to receive the Spirit of God. Everyone who is born of God receives the Spirit of Christ and today, that's called a born-again Christian. As we read the text, we'll see that “Christian” is identified scripturally as something completely different. So keep that in mind that I'm talking about Christians in the way that the church uses the term, those who have been born in spirit. Back to Mat 7:16 By their fruits ye shall know them. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; (Again, now he's not just identifying prophets. Now he's broadening the scope. And in the next few verses, he uses the word “every” several times. So he's broadening the scope to talk about everybody, not just false prophets.) 17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but the corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Now, this same verse is used in Matthew 3:10, where John the Baptist is rebuking the Covenant people of God; those religious leaders who made their stand on believing that Abraham was their father. Mat 3:7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said unto them, Ye offspring of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruit worthy of repentance: 9 and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 10 And even now the axe lieth at the root of the trees: every tree therefore that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.  I want you to notice here that He's talking about the Covenant people, thinking that because they were children of Abraham, they were entitled to God's blessings. And John told them that that's not the truth. The truth is, only bringing forth fruits worthy of repentance brings you into God's blessings. I think this is a good exhortation for Christians today, because Christians think, “Well, I'm a Christian, God's my Father so I can just go and do what I want to do now.” But this is not so. It says every tree that doesn't bring forth good fruit among us is hewn down and cast into the fire.  The scripture also says in Joh 15:2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he taketh it away:… Notice: Every branch in me… Now that can be no other than God's people, right? We're all responsible to bring forth fruit. The fruit is what identifies us as Christians, and the fruit here, as we see in the text, is the actions of your life. The fruit is love, the joy, the peace, the righteousness; all those things that Christ was and is. The actions of our life are the fruit of the inner life, that's what He's talking about; the fruit. Along the same line in several of Jesus's parables, He came looking for fruit on the fig tree. He wasn't looking for fruit on a tree that wasn't supposed to bring forth fruit. He was looking for fruit on a tree that was created to bring forth fruit. It is the fig tree that identifies God's people. Luk 13:6-9 And he spake this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came seeking fruit thereon, and found none. 7 And he said unto the vinedresser, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why doth it also cumber the ground? 8 And he answering saith unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: 9 and if it bear fruit thenceforth, well; but if not, thou shalt cut it down.  Notice: The Lord is the one who's going to cut it down. The Lord is long-suffering with us to bear fruit, but be that as it may, we've been given a certain amount of time to bear that fruit, and I think that's what He's talking about in Matthew 7, because as He goes on in Mat 7:20 Therefore by their fruits ye shall know them. 21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father who is in heaven. Now he's identifying fruit as doing the will of the Father. The fruit of the Spirit is doing the will of the Father. He goes on to say, 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works? Let me make a point here. Do you suppose that it's possible that an apostate Christian could prophesy? I mean, prophesy from the Lord? We have examples in the scriptures of false prophets who prophesied in the name of the Lord. A good example is in 1 Samuel 19. This is talking about Saul after he had fallen away from the Lord; in fact, he had been rejected by the Lord. It says 1Sa 19:23 And he went thither to Naioth in Ramah: and the Spirit of God came upon him also, and he went on, and prophesied, until he came to Naioth in Ramah. 24 And he also stripped off his clothes, and he also prophesied before Samuel, and lay down naked all that day and all that night. Wherefore they say, Is Saul also among the prophets? Now, some people say, well, because he stripped off all his clothes, that doesn't seem like a godly thing to do, but I think what the Holy Spirit was showing to people around him was that he was walking naked before the Lord. He wasn't dressed up with Christ. He didn't have on his wedding garment, so on and so forth. He had fallen away in his works, because remember when we studied the garment, it symbolized your works, right? In Revelation 19, the righteous acts of the saints were the garment that the bride is wearing.  Now, I want you to notice this too; this same man had a demon that was sent from God to him. 1Sa 18:10 And it came to pass on the morrow, that an evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul, and he prophesied in the midst of the house: and David played with his hand, as he did day by day. And Saul had his spear in his hand; 11 and Saul cast the spear; for he said, I will smite David even to the wall. And David avoided out of his presence twice. 12 And Saul was afraid of David, because Jehovah was with him, and was departed from Saul. Now this is the same Saul whom the Lord had departed from, who later prophesied in the name of the Lord, because the Spirit came upon him. Here, he prophesied in verse 10 by an evil spirit. He had obviously become a false prophet. Was it always that way? No, it wasn't always that way. He was the anointed of the Lord. But yet he became a false prophet. He became what we would know today as an apostate Christian. He was rejected in 1Sa 15:23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as idolatry and teraphim. Because thou hast rejected the word of Jehovah, he hath also rejected thee from being king. So he had been rejected by the Lord, received an evil spirit by which he prophesied, and later even prophesied in the name of the Lord when the Spirit of the Lord came upon him. Now, going back to what I consider to be probably apostate Christians in Mat 7: 22 …Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy by thy name,… And some people say, ‘Well, that wouldn't be possible if this person did not know the Lord at all to be able to prophesy by thy name.' And the point I want you to see here, too, is that it says by thy name and not in thy name; in the original, it says by thy name, meaning they could be prophesying true enough, but they weren't in the name. They weren't getting a reward because they weren't abiding in the name of the Lord. Another point, it says, and by thy name cast out demons, and by thy name do many mighty works? Do you remember what Jesus said in Matthew 12, when they accused Him of casting out demons by the prince of demons, Beelzebub? Mat 12:24 But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This man doth not cast out demons, but by Beelzebub the prince of the demons. 25 And knowing their thoughts he said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand: 26 and if Satan casteth out Satan, he is divided against himself; how then shall his kingdom stand? 27 And if I by Beelzebub cast out demons, by whom do your sons cast them out? therefore shall they be your judges. 28 But if I by the Spirit of God cast out demons, then is the kingdom of God come upon you. You know, I think you'll find that Satan doesn't cast out Satan; that even the most apostate Christians, because of their Covenant relationship with the Lord, still have authority to do that and can do it. I've seen people that the Lord identified to me as false prophets and actually did prophesy wrongly, and I've seen them cast out demons too. They had the Covenant relationship because of the Jews. The seven sons of Sceva were Jews. You see, the Jews were casting out demons. This wasn't new to the Jews to cast out demons. They had been doing that. And because of Covenant relationship, the Jews got healing, and they got deliverance. Even today, people, because of Covenant relationship, before being completely rejected by God, they can still cast out demons.  I know of a false prophet in particular who has identified too many people who cast out demons; in fact, he cast them out with me. Let me say this: a person who is lost, who does not know the Lord, how do they cast out demons? Those who have no Covenant relationship with the Lord; how do they cast out demons? Their father manifestly is Beelzebub, so how do they cast out demons? Well, what happened to the seven sons of Sceva when they tried to use “by Jesus whom Paul preacheth” to cast out demons in Acts 19:13 and then got whipped? They did not know the one who was creating the New Covenant. I think the point is that you have to be in some kind of a Covenant relationship in order to be casting demons out, because Satan doesn't cast out Satan.  The One who lives in you now casts out demons. 1Jn 4:4 … greater is he that's in you than he that is in the world. Who's in the world? Satan. Does Satan cast out his own kingdom? Jesus said, No, he doesn't do that. Well, here's the point. Were they casting the demons out by the Spirit of God or were they casting them out by Satan? Jesus said they couldn't cast them out by Satan. The lost people's authority is Satan. The one that lives in them is Satan. The point I'm making about these people here, these false prophets, is that many of them are apostate Christians. Remember, an apostate is one who is falling away from the truth and the grace of God. And it's somebody who is obviously saying, Lord, Lord, (so they obviously believed in their heart that Jesus was their Lord) Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy and by thy name cast out demons and by thy name do many mighty works? Notice they were not “in” thy name but God permitted this “by” thy name as a witness of Jesus. Who is it today that we know that is doing this in the name of the Lord, if it's not somebody who is abiding in His name, which is far more powerful?  I was in a situation where a preacher and his girl friend were trying to cast many demons out of a man who chased them out of the building. Previously the demon possessed man chased  the preachers deacon through a plate glass door, shattering it, and sending him to the hospital. So, they sent for me and told me their story. They watched from the doorway as I approached this man who thought to do the same to me. By the grace of God he cowered and was delivered. Many today are in “by” mode, meaning they are using the name of the Lord and not doing it in the name. I agree that some people profess the Lord and don't know the Lord or haven't been sent by Him. And all false prophets are not apostate Christians or just lost deceivers. ; not all of them. And I'm convinced that there is some chicanery going on even in Christian circles. I don't know if any of you are familiar with it, but I've been among some of them where they see a demon behind every bush. They cast demons out daily from everybody's flesh. But a lot of that's not demons, it's just run away flesh.  Mat 7:23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Now here's the point: is there such a thing as a Christian who's been born in spirit that God spoke to and said, “I don't know you” or “I never knew you?” Yes, we have examples of that. But first, before we get away from this, I want to read on because He says, I never knew you depart from me you that work iniquity. What is it for the Lord to know you? I want to look at that and what that means. When he says depart from me ye that work iniquity verse 24 went right on Every one therefore; (Meaning: He's talking about the same thing as just before this verse.) Every one therefore that heareth these words of mine, and doeth them, shall be likened unto a wise man, who built his house upon the rock: 25 and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon the rock. 26 And every one that heareth these words of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand: Notice, He didn't say whether you had the spirit of Christ or not; it all has to do with obedience. The difference between a foolish man and a wise man is strictly just one word; obedience. The born again spirit filled with the Holy Spirit gives us power to obey through faith in the sacrifice of Jesus. Our text deals with the fruit, which has to do with whether you're obeying. So the main difference between the wise and the foolish is hearing the words and doing them. Notice that both men here in this text heard the words, but only one obeyed, and that was the wise man. 27 and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and smote upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall thereof. And this is the test that follows. I want to make that point before we go on because I want to look at the foolish virgins briefly, because God spoke to them, and He says, I don't know you. Mat 25:1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. 2 And five of them were foolish, and five were wise. Again, what's the difference between the wise and the foolish? It's just one thing, being a hearer and a doer by the anointing of God. 3 For the foolish, when they took their lamps, took no oil with them: 4 but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. We know that in Pro 20:27 The spirit of man is the lamp of Jehovah, Searching all his innermost parts. The spirit of man is the lamp of the oil. And the oil being the life of God or the Holy Spirit is to be in that lamp. And there's a vessel that the wise virgins took with them that was also full of oil; that obviously the foolish did not bring. What do you think the vessel is that also has the oil? We've talked about the difference between the born again spirit and the born again soul, which is your mind, will, and emotions. This is the fruit of the Spirit being born in the soul.  The person who had just a born-again spirit, but brought forth no fruit in the soul through obedience will be rejected. They were not bearing the fruit of obedience so they could be born again in the soul. The vessel that they brought with their lamp is the vessel of their physical life because that's where you bear the fruit of the oil. That's where you bear the fruit of Christ to be seen by the world. Now, even the foolish virgins here had oil in their lamp or spirit. So you can't classify them as non-Christians? Or, what we've been calling Christians. You understand? Verse 5 Now while the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. 6 But at midnight there is a cry, Behold, the bridegroom! Come ye forth to meet him. 7 Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. This was another question someone had a while back about a word, so I went and looked it up. It's the Greek word, kosmeo. Kosmeo is the word we get cosmetics from. And it simply means ‘to arrange or to adorn'. It's not implying that their lamps were out and they lit them, you understand? It's just talking about adorning or arranging their lamps. They chose to translate it trim in this text; I don't think that's a very good word to use. To trim is to bring the wick up so the light shines best. Continuing in Mat 25:8 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are going out. 9 But the wise answered, saying, Peradventure there will not be enough for us and you: go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. 10 And while they went away to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage feast: and the door was shut. Notice that - the door was shut. That was ominous because that door being shut is mentioned in other places in the scripture, like in Luke 13:11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. 12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. 13 Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour. He said, I know you not. Now these virgins did have oil in their lamps. So obviously what the Lord means by knowing you is more than just receiving a new spirit, a born-again spirit. There must be fruit born of that spirit life in order for the Lord to know you. And I want to look at that too. Before we go there, let's look at Luke too, because it has a very close parallel to this door being closed. Luk 13:25 When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, open to us; … (Obviously the same text there.) and he shall answer and say to you, I know you not whence ye are; 26 then shall ye begin to say, We did eat and drink in thy presence, and thou didst teach in our streets; 27 and he shall say, I tell you, I know not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. See, so many people are relying on their relationship with the Lord by what they know, by who they're connected with, by the fact that they're a Christian, that they've accepted Jesus as their Savior, but they're using none of the criteria of the scriptures. The only basis that God rebuked any of these people was for their disobedience. And we know that the only way we can obey is by having faith in the Lord and being filled with His Spirit. If we have faith, we'll obey. We'll overcome the sins that we struggle against because we fight the good fight of faith. It's not by works. I'm not trying to magnify our works; I'm trying to magnify the Lord's works through us. The criteria by which the Lord is going to judge any of us is going to be works. And he says to them, because of their evil works, not because they weren't Christians, because it's obvious to me from Matthew 25, and what we just read here, that He's talking to His children. But He says, I know not whence ye are… What causes the Lord to know us? First of all, many people are going to be found in this situation. In Matthew 25, there were 10 virgins. It was talking about the time of the coming of the Lord, how that five were ready, and five were not. That's only half of the people mentioned; half were not ready to meet the Lord, and half were. The very next parable is the parable of the talents, and again, there's no paragraph indentation, so He just goes on in Mat 25:14 For it is as when a man, going into another country, (In other words, he's telling you, watch, I'm going to show you the same thing in another way.) There were three groups at that time who had each been given talents. And one-third of them were rejected because they didn't bring forth the fruit that God put in, right? Doesn't the Bible say a third of the stars of heaven will be cast down to the earth? How come it was half of the virgins and yet a third of those with the talents? Because the virgins are those who are living on the earth when the Lord returns, and these men with the talents are standing before the judgment after death, after resurrection, you see? We're talking about those who are living at the time the Lord returns in order to be caught up to be with the Lord. What about the people who die? There are obviously three groups. A third of the stars of heaven were cast to the earth in the Book of Revelation. That's a third of the people. The scriptures say that Abraham's seed are as the stars; also, Jacob. The stars are likened to God's people. In Jacob's dream of the stars, they're the children of the bride chamber; it's in many, many places. There's the star glory in 1 Corinthians 15; the star glory is a person who's manifested star glory with the Lord. And some go on to moon glory and sun glory. But a third of the stars of heaven are being cast to the earth, and it goes on in Rev 6:13 and the stars of the heaven fell unto the earth, as a fig tree casteth her unripe figs when she is shaken of a great wind. That's not talking about angels, that's talking about God's people not coming to maturity. You see, this is what's happening to a third of the stars. And yet of the people who are alive and remain, half of those people do not enter to being with the Lord. During this end time many will fall in the great falling away. They were called, twice dead and plucked up by the roots. Do you suppose that if your lamp is going out, you would be called twice dead? I do and that's what he's talking about; there's a great falling away happening right there. I think during the tribulation period, probably a third of the Christians are going to take the mark and spiritually die, and out of the ones that are left, half of them are going to be rejected. This is what I feel from these two parables. In the parable of the sower in Mat 13, three out of four did not bear fruit and were rejected. But let's look now at the Lord and how He knows us. You know that the Lord foreknew a group of people in Rom 8:29 For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren: Let's see who the Lord knew. Okay, it's really important that we know who He foreknew because He didn't foreknow every Christian. I can prove that to you Notice who he's talking about; who was foreknown. Now, that's not knowing what's going to happen before it happens. Foreknew is like Adam knew his wife. The word ‘know' implies an intimate relationship. Rom 8:29 For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren: These people whom He foreknew here is not talking about He foreknew that they would overcome. He knew this person. He knew their nature before the world was created. Watch, it says, For whom He foreknew, He foreordained. (Everybody that He foreknew, He foreordained.) Notice to be conformed to the image of his son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Notice now, there's no way out of this verse. If you start in on one end of it, you've got to come out on the other end of it. The ones He foreknew, he foreordained, (He predestined) to be conformed to the image of his son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 and whom he foreordained, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. So, everybody that God foreknew from the foundation of the world will be conformed to the image of His Son. That doesn't mean everyone that we call ‘Christians'. So, Jesus pointed out this group; He called them 30-60 and a 100-fold fruit. Fruit of what? The fruit of Christ. The 30-60 and a 100-fold are going to be conformed to the image of Christ. These are the ones He foreknew. What is it to know God? Did God know anybody who was not in Covenant relationship? No, He didn't. I'm going to make this point at the very beginning that God only knows one family in all the earth, and that family is born again spiritual Israel. Amo 3:2 You only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will visit upon you all your iniquities. Now keep that in your mind that the Lord has only known Israel from the foundation until now. Even though Israel was changed in the New Covenant, it's still Israel. He makes a point back in Rom 9:6 … For they are not all Israel, that are of Israel: In other words, ‘real Israel' is going to be picked out of the midst of mans ‘Israel'. You understand? Because remember, For many are called, but few chosen. Mat 22:14 That word chosen is eklektos, or elected. And Paul exhorts us to give diligence to make our calling and election sure. (2Pe.1:10) This group of people in Romans 8 was called and elect because in verse 33, he said who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? … So, he's specifically talking about the elect, not just the called. Now, everybody who's the elect has to be called because the word call means invited. You remember when Jesus came to the Jews, they were invited, but they all weren't elect, and the reason was that they didn't accept Jesus. So it's only Israel that He knows and specifically only those who are of faith in the Promises.  Let's look at Rom 11:1 I say then, Did God cast off his people? God forbid. He cast off all but the elect who are born from above for they are His people. There were some Israelites that He didn't cast off because Paul said, For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. So God didn't cast off the chosen or elect Israelites. But there were other Israelites that He did. 2 God did not cast off his people which he foreknew. Notice that. Nobody that God foreknew did He cast off. You know why? Let's read on, and we'll see why. 2 God did not cast off his people which he foreknew. Or know ye not what the scripture saith of Elijah? how he pleadeth with God against Israel: 3 Lord, they have killed thy prophets, they have digged down thine altars; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. 4 But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have left for myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to Baal. 5 Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election (or chosen) of grace. Now the remnant is according to the election of grace. Notice that Israel did fall away, but not the elect, not the chosen, not the foreknown. Watch. 6 But if it is by grace, it is no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. In other words, by no more of your works, no more works of the law, are you going to be justified before God. 7 What then? That which Israel seeketh for, that he obtained not; but the election obtained it, … Notice, the elect or the chosen will obtain it. The foreknown will obtain it, and they will not be cast off. See, we're identifying something here. There were many people called out of Egypt who fell in the wilderness and did not make it to the Promised Land. The Bible says many are called, but few are chosen or ‘elect'. Who are the ones He foreknew? The many called or the few chosen? So, obviously, from this text you can see very clearly that the ones He foreknew were elect, meaning chosen, and they obtained it. Why did they obtain it? Let's see what it means to be known by God. Look at this verse very closely in Rom 11:19 Thou wilt say then, Branches were broken off, that I might be grafted in. 20 Well; by their unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by thy faith. Be not highminded, but fear: 21 for if God spared not the natural branches (Israel), neither will he spare thee. 22 Behold then the goodness and severity of God: toward them that fell, severity; but toward thee, God's goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. 23 And they also, if they continue not in their unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God is able to graft them in again.  The point I wanted to make is in verse 26 And so all Israel shall be saved. So what about all those who were cut off? They were Israel. They were called, but they were not elect. Remember what we saw back at the beginning of the chapter: those who were called and fell away in the wilderness. Those who rebelled against God, the ones whose hearts He hardened, He said, But the elect obtained it, and the rest were hardened. (Rom.11:7) Who is Israel? Who is the Israel that God foreknew? It's the elect. It is the foreknown. What about the rest of them? He didn't foreknow them. You know why? Because they didn't endure to the end in faith and obedience.  I want you to notice that everybody who was not foreknown and who was not written in the Lamb's Book of Life from the foundation of the world is going to be deceived and fall away. Everybody. We're talking about those called who fell in the wilderness. That's talking about the world, the flesh, everybody who is not foreknown is going to be deceived by the Beast.  Look at Rev 13:8 And all that dwell on the earth shall worship him, every one whose name hath not been written from the foundation of the world in the book of life of the Lamb that hath been slain. Notice, it's everyone who is not written or not foreknown. Many Christians are called, meaning invited, but will not come to prove to be the elect, or chosen. They won't obtain the promise because of unbelief and are broken off. You understand what I'm saying? Remember they do not obtain the promise because they do not endure in faith. You can't obtain the promise that way. Look at Rev 17:8 The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and is about to come up out of the abyss, and to go into perdition. And they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, they whose name hath not been written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast, how that he was, and is not, and shall come. So everybody whose name was not written there is going to be deceived, but everybody whose name that is written there will see through it. They are the elect; they will obtain. They are the foreknown; they will obtain. They will be the ‘Paul out of Israel', who God chose to go on and to bear fruit.  Today, we see Israel as a type of Christianity. Out of that, there are some who are going to go on and be obedient. Because obedience proves your faith. If you have no obedience, if you do not obey, if you are not a doer of the word, you have no proof for your faith. The way God is going to prove that you walk by faith is by your works. Everyone who walks by faith will overcome. If we walk by faith, we will overcome the trials in this life; the sin, the works of the devil; we will win.  There's another point I want you to see. Jesus was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world, in Ephesians, where it also says God chose us; that's the word eklektos in Him, before the foundation of the world. Now, if Jesus was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world, when was He manifestly slain? Not until 2,000 years ago. Now, if our names were written in the Lamb's Book of Life before the foundation of the world, when are they manifestly written in the Lamb's Book of Life? They're manifestly written in the Lamb's Book of Life when you're born again. Therefore, you were foreknown just as Christ was foreknown. You see that? It is really important that you follow this now. It's manifest when you're born into the Kingdom. In God's plan and His foreknowledge. Just like Jesus was the Lamb slain before the foundation of the world, but He wasn't killed then. When God set His plan into manifestation, Jesus was sacrificed. But it might as well have been because God calls the things to be not as though they were.  So, when you were born from above you were written in the Book of Life. I'm not talking about in God's plan that He foreknew. I'm talking about when manifestly your name was written in. Because everyone who's born of God is written in His Book. But remember, the ones that He foreknew from the beginning were those who endured to the end and came into the manifestation of Jesus. Psa 87:4 I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon as among them that know me: Behold, Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia: This one was born there. 5 Yea, of Zion it shall be said, This one and that one was born in her; And the Most High himself will establish her. 6 Jehovah will count, when he writeth up the peoples, This one was born there. Selah. The point is, when you're born into the Kingdom, that's when God writes your name. He said, Rejoice not that you have power over the demons, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. (Luk 10:20) So here's the point. Everybody that's born, including all of those that came out of Egypt, were written in that book. But some were blotted out. Who was it that was blotted out, before the full manifestation of Jesus? Remember, we're talking about those whom He foreknew before the foundation of the world who came into the image of His Son. But according to Rev 3:5, He that overcometh shall thus be arrayed in white garments; and I will in no wise blot his name out of the book of life,…. So you've got many names written in manifestly, and those who don't overcome are blotted out. Before what? Before the full manifestation, the ones who were foreknown. So all the Jews who came out of Egypt were written at that time. Also, every Christian who receives a new born-again spirit from God is written at that time. But only the ones who endure to bear fruit were foreknown. Therefore, of those who fall in the wilderness, He says, I know you not. I never knew you. Why? He didn't foreknow them. What was the main difference between those two groups of people, the wise and the foolish? The main difference was that they both heard the word, but only the wise became a doer of the word. In both Matthew 7 and Matthew 25, the difference between the wise and the foolish is the same. And yet, clearly, even the foolish had oil in their lamps. But their oil was going out. See, there's a great falling away coming because of tribulation, because of trials and people are going to fall away. Look at Psa 69:28 Let them be blotted out of the book of life, And not be written with the righteous. There will be those who will be written in Zion but the sinner in Zion will be destroyed out of it. Look in Isa 4:3 And it shall come to pass, that he that is left in Zion, and he that remaineth in Jerusalem, shall be called holy, even every one that is written among the living in Jerusalem; 4 when the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof, by the spirit of justice, and by the spirit of burning. God is doing a work of purging from the church those who are walking in wickedness, those who are guilty of blood, and walking in disobedience.  This scripture is very plain about being blotted out: Psa 69:28 Let them be blotted out of the book of life, And not be written with the righteous. There's another one where Moses was interceding for the people in Exo 32:32 Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin--; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book which thou hast written. 33 And Jehovah said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book. So those who are written among the living, those who have manifested fruit, those who came into the image of Christ through the Word. Those who are written at the end are going to be the ones that He foreknew. They're going to be the elect, the ones that He chose. He exhorts us in 2Pe 1:10 Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never stumble: Look at 2Ti 2:19 Howbeit the firm foundation of God standeth, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his: and, Let every one that nameth the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness. See, the Lord knows them that are His and that's going to be the ones who depart from unrighteousness, so he's exhorting everybody that names the name of the Lord to depart from unrighteousness, to depart from iniquity. See, we're finding out who the Lord knows. Do you know who He knows? He knows Jesus. He knows the name, which is the nature and character of Jesus. Can you imagine God having relationship with us as Adam did with Eve? (That's what the word ‘know' means.) Imagine God having a relationship with somebody who is contrary to His nature? Do you understand that? God cannot know someone who is contrary to His nature and Word. 1 John 3:9 Whosoever is begotten of God doeth no sin, because his seed abideth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is begotten of God".   Just like He commands us Christians not to choose an unbelieving mate, right? Why did He tell us not to choose an unbelieving mate? Because we're not to know anybody with a contrary nature. What fellowship has light with darkness? So God knows and sows the Word who is Jesus. To the extent Jesus is in you, that's to the extent God knows you.  Who did Jesus say the Father would love? Every Christian? No, He didn't. Joh 14:23…If a man love me he will keep my word: and my Father will love him and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. What is the proof that you love God? Jesus said several times that the proof that you love God is that you obey his commandments. This is the one He knows. 1Co 8:3 but if any man loveth God, the same is known by him. In other words, we are proving our love for God by walking in faith and obeying His commandments. The ones that God knows or foreknew are the ones that love Him. Why? Because they not only hear the Word, they do the Word. The ones that God knows will come to know Him because of the foreknowledge part, like I said. It's in the mind of God. It's calling those things that be not as though they were. God spoke, and ever since He spoke this plan, it's been coming into existence. Don't miss it!  It was Jesus Who was foreknown to die for the world, but He wasn't manifest until Calvary. And you, who were foreknown to be in God, in Christ, before the foundation of the world, weren't manifest until you were born. Of those who are born and walk by faith and overcome and endure to the end, Jesus said, they shall be saved. Those who endure through the wilderness and enter into the Promised Land; they are the types of the elect. The very thing that causes you to go on is faith and if you don't understand that, then you can't overcome it anyway. Ever since Exodus chapter 3 the Lord revealed Himself to Moses. But you know Moses didn't know the Lord? He confessed it in Exodus chapter 33. He did not know the Lord. We are coming to know the Lord. The Lord is the nature of Jesus Christ.  And the more we come to know that nature of the real Jesus, the more we're coming to know the Lord. The one the Father knows, or even foreknew, was Jesus, because He was of like nature. God can only know that which is of like nature. Jesus said in Joh 14:9 If you have seen me you have seen the Father. He doesn't know the worldly person. He doesn't know the wicked person. He knows the righteous man that's inside of those who love Him. Exo 33:12 And Moses said unto Jehovah, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, See, the Lord had told Moses, I know thee by name. You know what the word ‘name' means? It's the same in the Hebrew as it is in the Greek. It's nature, character, and authority. The Lord told him, I know thee by name, and thou hast found favor in my sight. 13 Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found favor in thy sight, show me now thy ways, that I may know thee. The Bible talks about the Jews, how they knew the doings of the Lord, but Moses knew the ways of the Lord. There's a difference in knowing His doing and knowing His ways. If you know His ways, you can walk with Him. If you only know His doings, sometimes you're just going from judgment to judgment. …that I may know thee, to the end that I may find favor in thy sight: and consider that this nation is thy people. 14 And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.  And in verse 17 And Jehovah said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken; for thou hast found favor in my sight, and I know thee by name. 18 And he said, Show me, I pray thee, thy glory. 19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and will proclaim the name of Jehovah before thee; Moses found out the name of the Lord in Exodus chapter 3. He told him the exact name. YHWH, I AM THAT I AM. So obviously, he's talking about a different name here. He's talking about the real name here.  Verse 19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and will proclaim the name (the Shem) of Jehovah before thee; and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. 20 And he said, Thou canst not see my face; for man shall not see me and live. Moses represented the Law; you couldn't come into the likeness of Christ through the Law. So he didn't get to see the face of the Lord, but we have a promise in 1 Corinthians 13. Moses didn't see His face; he spoke to Him face to face, but he didn't see His face. There's a difference. We can speak to the Lord face to face, but not see Him. Now there's a difference. He spoke to God face to face, but he didn't see His face. For man shall not see me and live. In other words, as man, you can't know Him. And as man, you are not known by Him. 1Co 15:50 Flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. It is your spirit man that can know Him and be known by Him. The Holy Spirit helps our infirmity that we can know Him and see Him.  But He goes on to say, 21 and Jehovah said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon the rock: (The only place you can see God is standing upon the rock, right? That's Jesus, and you have to stand upon the Word of God.) 22 and it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a cleft of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand until I have passed by: 23 and I will take away my hand, and thou shalt see my back; but my face shall not be seen. Now, when He revealed the name of the Lord, the Lord said He was going to proclaim His name. It wasn't YHWH because He told him that 30 chapters before. Look at Exo 34:5 And Jehovah descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of Jehovah. 6 And Jehovah passed by before him, and proclaimed, Jehovah, Jehovah, (YHWH; it's YHWH, in the original, that's what He said.) a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abundant in lovingkindness and truth; 7 keeping lovingkindness for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin; and that will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, upon the third and upon the fourth generation. This is His Nature, Character, and Authority, Which is the meaning of Name. Now, He just proclaimed the name of the Lord. But what Moses didn't know, and he asked God to show him, ‘Show me thy ways, so I'll know the one who's going with us.' See, this is knowing God. Knowing this person whose name represents the I AM, that's knowing God. The opposite is also true. God knows the same nature. He knows Jesus Christ. He knows Jesus in us. And it is Christ in us by Word and Spirit that is the hope of glory. Remember in Romans 8, the ones He foreknew, and you go all the way to the end of the verse that says, He also glorified. Everyone He foreknew, He glorified. Now in 1Co.13: 11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I felt as a child, I thought as a child: now that I am become a man, I have put away childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know fully even as also I was fully known. So knowing fully is seeing God face to face. Moses said, ‘I don't know You; reveal Yourself to me.' Therefore, he could not see Him face to face. Coming to maturity, bearing fruit, or manifesting Christ's likeness is coming to know Him face to face. It is coming to know Him fully as I was fully known. Who is going to come to know Him fully? Only those who were fully known will come to know Him fully and will see Him face to face.  Moses himself said, ‘I don't know You yet.' By the Law, you can't know God face to face. That's why Moses didn't enter into the Promised Land as a type and a shadow because the Law could not make perfect. It's also why Moses couldn't see God's face; he could only see His shadow, His back parts. Did you see that? By the Law, all they could see was shadow, so God said I'll let you see My hinder parts but He wouldn't let you see His face because by the Law you can never come to know God. It's only by His grace that you can come to know God.  Now Moses was asking for this, ‘Let me know the One Who's going to go with us.' In the New Testament, our Moses is Jesus; He did know God face to face. And we're coming to know God face to face through His grace and through His sacrifice. But the ones that are going to fully know God are the ones that were fully known by God before the foundation of the world. All the rest of them are going to fall away, just like those people in the wilderness. They were written in, but blotted out before coming to the fullness of God, which was what? The Promised Land. Did you know that, as a child, we can speak to God face to face? And God can speak to us face to face as a child of God. And the reason we can speak to God as a child is because of our Covenant relationship. But coming to know the Lord is seeing Him face to face by faith. 2Co 3:18 But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord the Spirit. That's coming into His nature, coming into His life, coming to know Him. Moses knew the literal name, Y-H-W-H, but he didn't know the One that name just represented. Remember we build on the foundation and we need to able to stand upon the rock when the wind blows and the rain beats against that house. Look, what is the firm foundation of God that stands? It's the name of the Lord. And that everybody who names the name of the Lord depart from unrighteousness. We can't stand on that rock in our own strength. I know I've shared this vision that my wife had years ago, how that I was standing on this rock wearing what was like metal leg braces.  The ones who are foreknown are going to stand on that rock of the Word and this shows us it won't be by their own strength, but by the strength of the Lord. So that's why it's our faith that counts. If it were by our works, it would be our strength that would cause us to stand but it's not. We can praise God for this, because it's not by our works. It's by grace, and the only way to get grace is faith in the promises. I thank God that Jesus freely gave us this salvation that we're talking about. We can accept it by faith without trying to work it up in ourselves. Everybody seems to go through that stage of trying to earn their salvation and failing miserably because it's got to be freely given by grace. It's got to be the strength that God supplies, and God supplies that strength by simply believing the word of God, not walking by sight, but believing the word of God. We believe that Jesus took away our sins. Initially we can't see that, but as we believe that He did it will happen. Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. We proclaim and confess the word; that's standing upon the rock and that's the only place you can see the Lord. Right now, maybe we speak to Him more face-to-face than see Him face to face. But we're going to know fully, if we walk by faith, even as we were fully known. Can you imagine that? You're going to know God fully as you were fully known. That's a tremendous promise! I mean, we want to know God, and gradually, the more we stand upon the rock, the more we're going to see His face. It's progressive, it's not an instantaneous thing.  When Moses stood upon the rock and the Lord proclaimed the Name, He proclaimed the nature of God there. This is the way God is, and yet, we're only learning the nature of God a little by little, line upon line, here a little and there a little. We're learning His nature. A lot of people are building things upon the foundation of God that have got to be torn back down, like in 1 Corinthians chapter 3. People build on it, the wood, hay, and the stubble of their own works, own doctrines, and religious establishment. All those dead things have to be burned back down by tribulation, and then start over. We build upon the foundation, which is Christ. There's no other foundation that can be laid that will work. That's what Paul was saying. Some people are on the shifting sand, yet some who are really on the right foundation, but they're building wrong things on the right foundation, the right foundation being that Jesus took away our sins.  But again, you can make the same mistake the Pharisees made in making of no effect the Word of God by their traditions. This is what the worldly church is famous for. This is what the Jews were famous for and Jesus rebuked them several times for that. If you make of no effect the word of God by your traditions, you're not standing upon the rock, and you're not going to see His face.  We have to come to know this Lord. We have to humble ourselves to His word. People have ulterior motives for believing what they believe, which is religion's way; they have different reasons for believing what they believe and they don't like to be wrong. They want to be seen as right. They live purely for the glory of men. And so they never change their mind even when you can show them all the verses in the word. They're building other things on the foundation and those things are going to be torn down by tribulations that are coming. Hopefully, many people will repent and rebuild the right things on the right foundation and bear fruit. That's why tribulation is coming. It's coming to tear down, to shake, the things that can be shaken, shake them right down to the ground so that God can rebuild the truth. There's going to be a great outpouring of truth in the tribulation period for those who love the truth. But sadly, for those who will believe a lie, there's great deception coming. That deception is going to blot a lot of names out of the Book of Life so that those who are foreknown will be there alone. Those that are left in Zion will be holy, you understand, because the spirit of fire has cleansed it, so the way is to walk by faith, to stand upon the Word of God continuously, and not be swayed by the traditions of men, by Babylon's wood, hay and stubble. Babylon really has been around since, as people say, the Tower of Babel, but really the nature of Babylon has been around since the very beginning. Religion is supplanting God's way. The problem is, all we like sheep have gone astray, each one after his own way, and that's why we've got so many religions. But we've got God's standard to go by. God's way, and you really can't accept anything else. Religion's ideas, how to organize the church, and how to do the works of God. Religion's ideas are Babylon. God's people, historically, the Jews were taken captive by Babylon, and will later be delivered from the bondage of Babylon to build Zion, and that's really the Christian walk. Every Christian starts out taken captive to Babylon. That's the false ideas of ways God wants things done, false ideas of the nature of God, the name of God, and their false image of Jesus. Everyone needs to be delivered from all that. Their false teachings, church doctrines, traditions of men, etc., and go to Zion where the truth is. The Lord Jesus is our Zion; the true Word is our Zion. It's seeing God the way God wants to be seen; it's knowing God the way God wants to be known, and without knowing God the way God wants to be known, He doesn't know you. Do you know who God knows? It's the inner man, the seed of Christ that's on the inside of us. God knows Him.  And the point is, if we're not like those virgins taking the vessel of oil along with the lamp with the oil, then we're not bearing fruit in the area of the soul. Their lamps went out because they didn't carry the oil in the vessel. In these days, people don't think it's necessary to obey. But bearing fruit in the area of the soul comes from obedience. Peter said that, and it's something we need to see. 1Pe 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in your obedience to the truth unto unfeigned love of the brethren, love one another from the heart fervently: 23 having been begotten again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, through the word of God, which liveth and abideth. In other words, we're still being born again; we're being born again in our soul. And our souls are being purified, and we're walking in holiness. Heb 12:14 Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no man shall see the Lord: 1Jn 3:2 Beloved, now are we children of God, and it is not yet made manifest what we shall be. We know that, if he shall be manifested, we shall be like him; for we shall see him even as he is. 3 And every one that hath this hope set on him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. Mat 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. And Jesus said in Joh 6:46 Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he that is from God, he hath seen the Father. Who is Christ in you. For a more complete teaching on those who are chosen and the elect, see our book Predestined Called and Elect on our Website.

If you think the Bible isn't interesting, you have to listen to this episode. It's got armies, talking animals, angels, magic, sacrifice, justice and a whole lot more!Some of the highlights:What is an actual curse according to the Bible?Are cusswords the same as cursing?Does God actually speak audibly to non believers?Israel was a pretty big deal back in the Old Testament, over 3000 years ago and the proof is in the names, the kings, the countries, the cities, and historical records of all the things they did.#Balaam'sDonkey #Balaam #numbers #israel #magic #BlessingsandCursings #cussing

1. Balaam: Rich, Famous, and Sought After 2. Balaam: Experienced the Patience/ Mercy of God's People 3. Balaam: Proclaimed The Blessedness of God's People 4. Balaam: A Stubborn Man Who Dies Opposing God and His People

We delve into the story of Balaam's wicked advice and the severe consequences of Israel's disobedience. We discuss how Balaam, a pagan prophet, devised a plan to seduce the Israelites into idolatry through Moabite and Midianite women, leading to God's wrath. The episode highlights the zealous actions of Phinehas, Aaron's grandson, who intervened to stop the plague that God had sent as punishment. God responded to Phinehas's decisive actions by granting him a covenant of perpetual priesthood.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

We delve into the intriguing story of Balaam and Balak as recorded in the Book of Numbers. Balaam, a pagan prophet hired by Balak to curse Israel, ends up pronouncing blessings instead. Through a series of three attempts to curse Israel, we witness how God speaks through Balaam, emphasizing Israel's unique status and divine protection. The narrative highlights the importance of understanding the structure of the story, particularly the repetition of threes, and culminates in prophecies about a future King from Israel. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

We explore the intriguing story of Balaam and his talking donkey, a preview into what God will do with this pagan prophet. As Israel completes its journey to the plains of Moab, King Balak of Moab seeks to curse the Israelites through the pagan prophet Balaam. Despite initially refusing, Balaam sets out for Moab, only to be confronted by an angel of the Lord, unseen by him but visible to his donkey. After the donkey speaks, Balaam's eyes are opened to the divine presence, and he is instructed to only speak God's words. Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @realbiblebriefX: @biblebriefFacebook: @realbiblebriefEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.orgWant to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out our partner Biblingo (and use our link/code for a discount!): https://biblin...

Have you ever walked through something hard and wondered if God's blessing was still in your life? In this powerful Sunday message, Pastor Donnie McClurkin anchors believers in one of the most liberating truths in Scripture: the blessing God has placed on your life cannot be reversed. Drawing from Numbers 23:19-20, he reminds us that God is not a man who lies or falls short of His word. What He has spoken over you stands, regardless of what the enemy attempts, regardless of what circumstances suggest, and regardless of what your past looks like. Pastor McClurkin traces the story of Balaam, a prophet hired to curse Israel, who discovered that he could not undo what God had already declared. The people were already blessed before the curse was ever attempted. In the same way, believers today carry a blessing that no opposition, no accusation, and no spiritual attack can overturn. Drawing from his own testimony of poverty, violence, and addiction, Pastor McClurkin makes it personal: the struggle could not stop what God had already spoken. From the lion's den to the fiery furnace, from David and Goliath to Micah 7:8, this message is a declaration that the enemy's greatest effort falls short every time against the blessed of God. This message is a call to correct your vision, stand tall in what God has declared, and walk out of every situation carrying the confidence of someone who knows they are blessed. "My blessing is not based on what I have. My blessing is based on Who I have." The blessing of God on your life is not based on your circumstances. It is based on your connection to Jesus, and that cannot be taken from you. Sermon Scripture: Numbers 23:19-20    We stream live every Sunday at 11 am and every Wednesday at 8 pm. Visit our website: https://perfectingfaithchurch.com  Connect with us on social media!  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PerfectingFaithChurch/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perfectingfaithchurch/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@perfectingfaithchurch  X: https://x.com/PFCNY   Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@perfectingfaithchurch  

On that day they read in the book of Moses in the audience of the people; and therein was found written, that the Ammonite and the Moabite should not come into the congregation of God for ever;2 Because they met not the children of Israel with bread and with water, but hired Balaam against them, that he should curse them: howbeit our God turned the curse into a blessing.3 Now it came to pass, when they had heard the law, that they separated from Israel all the mixed multitude.4 And before this, Eliashib the priest, having the oversight of the chamber of the house of our God, was allied unto Tobiah:5 And he had prepared for him a great chamber, where aforetime they laid the meat offerings, the frankincense, and the vessels, and the tithes of the corn, the new wine, and the oil, which was commanded to be given to the Levites, and the singers, and the porters; and the offerings of the priests.6 But in all this time was not I at Jerusalem: for in the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes king of Babylon came I unto the king, and after certain days obtained I leave of the king:7 And I came to Jerusalem, and understood of the evil that Eliashib did for Tobiah, in preparing him a chamber in the courts of the house of God.8 And it grieved me sore: therefore I cast forth all the household stuff to Tobiah out of the chamber.9 Then I commanded, and they cleansed the chambers: and thither brought I again the vessels of the house of God, with the meat offering and the frankincense.10 And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given them: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field.11 Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place.12 Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the oil unto the treasuries.13 And I made treasurers over the treasuries, Shelemiah the priest, and Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah: and next to them was Hanan the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah: for they were counted faithful, and their office was to distribute unto their brethren.14 Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof.15 In those days saw I in Judah some treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also wine, grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the sabbath day: and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals.16 There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the sabbath unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem.17 Then I contended with the nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that ye do, and profane the sabbath day?18 Did not your fathers thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city? yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the sabbath.19 And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the sabbath: and some of my servants set I at the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on the sabbath day.20 So the merchants and sellers of all kind of ware lodged without Jerusalem once or twice.21 Then I testified against them, and said unto them, Why lodge ye about the wall? if ye do so again, I will lay hands on you. From that time forth came they no more on the sabbath.22 And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and that they should come and keep the gates, to sanctify the sabbath day. Remember me, O my God, concerning this also, and spare me according to the greatness of thy mercy.23 In those days also saw I Jews that had married wives of Ashdod, of Ammon, and of Moab:24 And their children spake half in the speech of Ashdod, and could not speak in the Jews' language, but according to the language of each people.25 And I contended with them, and cursed them, and smote certain of them, and plucked off their hair, and made them swear by God, saying, Ye shall not give your daughters unto their sons, nor take their daughters unto your sons, or for yourselves.26 Did not Solomon king of Israel sin by these things? yet among many nations was there no king like him, who was beloved of his God, and God made him king over all Israel: nevertheless even him did outlandish women cause to sin.27 Shall we then hearken unto you to do all this great evil, to transgress against our God in marrying strange wives?28 And one of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was son in law to Sanballat the Horonite: therefore I chased him from me.29 Remember them, O my God, because they have defiled the priesthood, and the covenant of the priesthood, and of the Levites.30 Thus cleansed I them from all strangers, and appointed the wards of the priests and the Levites, every one in his business;31 And for the wood offering, at times appointed, and for the firstfruits. Remember me, O my God, for good.

Estudio Verso a Verso

Most of us have heard the story of Balaam's donkey in Numbers 22 ever since we were little children. But this is an unusual story for a number of reasons not the least of which is a talking donkey. So, to start we're going to talk about the major players in this drama, the donkey, King Balak and the prophet Balaam and then see three lessons God taught Balaam and how they apply to us today. Thanks for listening. God bless you! To find out more about our church please go to www.whccnb.org.

This Sunday, Pastor Blake continued our Encounter series and looked at the story of Baalam's Donkey in Numbers 22. As we read through this story we see God met Balaam in the middle of his own plans, using unexpected ways to get his attention and redirect his path. We see the importance of recognizing God's voice and responding in obedience. True repentance is a surrender to God's direction in faith and do it with willing hearts. Want to watch a version of this message? Check out our live broadcast archive at www.declarationchurch.net/live.

View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.lordoflords.org/sermons/ministry-is-based-on-mercy/Moses was the newborn son of Hebrew slaves. After he was found floating in a reed basket in the Nile River by Pharaoh's daughter, she adopted him into the royal family. Moses received a noble Egyptian education. But he remained a Hebrew. When he was 40 years old, Moses saw an Egyptian guard beating a Hebrew slave. Moses struck and killed the guard. Then he fled into the Sinai mountains and became a shepherd for 40 years.That's when the Angel of the Lord -- the pre-incarnate Jesus -- appeared to Moses in a burning bush. The Lord didn't see a weak, whining, inadequate shepherd. He saw a man who would speak face-to-face with God as a friend; who would be his chosen servant to speak face-to-face with Pharaoh and say, "Let my people go"; and would lead God's people out of Egyptian slavery and into the Promised Land of Canaan. Jesus -- as the Angel of the Lord -- appeared to Moses to call him into his public ministry.Matthew was a tax collector. As a Jew, he was employed by the hated Roman Empire to collect taxes from his own Jewish people. Tax collectors were notorious for their greed and corruption. When Jesus came upon Matthew's booth, he didn't see a sinner to shun. He saw a soul sick with sin that the Physician of body and soul could save. He saw a man who would no longer take taxes from people. He saw his future disciple, apostle, and evangelist who would give God's Word to the people. Jesus appeared to Matthew to call him into his public ministry.On the road to Damascus, the ascended Lord Jesus appeared to Saul as a bright light. Jesus knocked Saul off his horse and onto his self-righteous butt. In Paul's own words, "Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 1:13-14).The voice of the crucified One spoke from heaven: "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me" (Acts 9:4)? And suddenly the shoe was on the other foot. The arrester was arrested. The slayer was slain. Saul was struck down and made blind. But three days later, he was baptized. His sight was given back. His life was given back -- a new life, a difficult life, and with this new life he was given a new name -- no longer would he be known as Saul, but now as Paul. Through Christ's grace and mercy, he was no longer a persecutor, but a preacher. No longer hunting those with Christ's name, but he was now a missionary serving in Christ's name. The ascended Jesus appeared to Paul to call him into his public ministry.Who would want these guys as their pastors? A murderer and run-away scaredy cat. A hated traitor to your culture and suspected cheater. A violent man who hunted your Christian siblings, threw some in jail, and killed others. Yet, these were some of the greatest leaders, apostles, and missionaries in the Bible -- Moses, Matthew, and Paul!God used them for his ministry. God used Moses' leadership, Matthew's wisdom, and Paul's passion. That's what he was looking for in his pastors.The Lord in his mercy called Moses, Matthew, and Paul into his public ministry. He said, "I want you. Leave your old life and follow me in a new life. No longer as a shepherd, but as my chosen leader. No longer as a tax collector, but as an apostle. No longer as a persecutor, but as a missionary." And for countless generations, the Lord has called men so they are no longer a farmer or businessman or builder or soldier or student or whatever, but as a pastor of God's people.What do you look for in a pastor? What are his duties? What is his role in the congregation?The pastor is a leader, yet he is also your servant. He is a shepherd, yet he is also a sinful sheep. He heals, skillfully using the double-edged scalpel of Law and Gospel. He is an evangelist, a teacher, a preacher, a confidant, a counselor, a scholar, an entertainer, and a friend. He visits the sick, marries those in love, comforts the grieving, buries the dead, admonishes those who sin, chases down the wandering, and feeds the faithful.He plans worship services, teaches Bible classes at church and in homes, visits members in the hospital or when they're homebound, goes out for coffee with members and outreach prospects, canvasses homes, organizes events like soccer camp and for WELS Wyoming Youth, does counseling, records podcasts, creates social media content, and more. So, when he posts pictures on Facebook of his hiking exploits, some friend will always ask, "Do you work?"The Scriptures have some demanding qualifications for every man who is called into the public ministry. Here are just a few of God's qualifications: He must be above reproach, self-controlled, respectable, an example for believers in life, in love, in faith and purity, watching his doctrine closely, blameless, upright, holy, and disciplined (1 Timothy 3:2-7; 1 Timothy 4:12,15-16; Titus 1:6-8).Ministry is based on mercy. Christ shows the minister mercy. Then the minister shows Christ's mercy to those to whom he is called to minister.The minister does not do his job to speak to an audience but to preach God's Word to God's people. It's not about gaining glory but about being used by God to gain souls for God's Kingdom to his glory. It's not about receiving prestige or power, but about becoming weak so Christ can be his strength (2 Corinthians 12:10).There is both honor and humility for a pastor when he sees God using men like Moses, Matthew and Paul in his public ministry. If God can use "losers" like these three, well ... then God can use a loser like your pastor, too. If God could convey his message through a staff-turned-snake to stir Pharaoh (Exodus 7:10), and teach a lesson to an unhappy preacher through a vine (Jonah 4:10) or speak to Balaam through a donkey (Numbers 22:28) ... then God can speak through someone like your pastor.It's through Christ's mercy that both pastors and people confess with Pastor Paul: "Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-- of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life" (1 Timothy 1:15-16).Do you remember playing dodgeball in grade school? I shared a meme this week that dodgeball felt like being a rebel on the planet Hoth dodging laser bolts from AT-ATs. Most of us weren't good at dodgeball. No arm. Slow. Can't catch. Can't dodge. Just getting pummeled!Paul doesn't sugarcoat it. Satan pummels us with our sins! Don't worship. Don't pray. Don't respect our leaders. Don't evangelize. We curse. Cuss. Gossip. Despair. Cheat. Hate. Retaliate. Lust. We're mean. Lazy. Greedy. Hypocritical. We are the worst of sinners! Chief of sinners, though I be!The surprise for Paul was that God chose him despite whom he had been. The surprise is that God chose a man to be your pastor despite who he is. The surprise is that God chooses you despite whom you had been ... and still are. Understanding that we are the worst, God sent Jesus to display his unlimited patience, to forgive us, give us faith, call us to follow him, and grant eternal life. What a stunning expression of mercy!Paul wrote to the Corinthians, "We hold this treasure in clay jars to show that its extraordinary power is from God and not from us" (2 Corinthians 4:7). What a stunning expression of mercy that God continues to convey his treasure of salvation through a cracked pot like your pastor.By his mercy, God uses men like Moses, Matthew, Paul, me and other pastors to preach, teach, absolve, counsel, and administer the sacraments. It is both in humility and with great honor that the pastor is the voice of Christ to speak his Word of forgiveness to sinners and proclaim comfort to the suffering and grieving. He is the man Christ has appointed to exercise his keys -- locking heaven for the unrepentant and unlocking heaven for the repentant.Your pastor may not be the greatest orator, but it is the pen of the Holy Spirit who gives your pastor the words to preach. The pastor may dress up to look classy or dress down to look cool, but that's why your pastor wears a clerical robe. Then you don't focus on the man and his clothing but focus on the message and Christ's righteousness which covers the man like a white robe. The pastor may not be the greatest counselor, but he has compassion for the wounded sheep and hurting lambs in his flock. Your pastor may not be the greatest singer, but as one of my previous organists pointed out, "Pastor, we should write music for the three notes you can sing."At one time you may have a pastor who is fresh from the Seminary, but your sins are still absolved even though the pastor lacks experience, for Christ is speaking through your pastor and Jesus has plenty of experience forgiving sins. Another time you may have a pastor who is older, getting close to retirement age, his cadence may be slow, but Christ's voice is still clearly heard and the gospel still purely preached. You may have a pastor who is no longer as young and energetic as he once was, but God still works through him to grow his kingdom, feed his sheep, and baptize and commune his family. You may have a pastor who grew up working on a farm so working hard is what he expects of himself.Through his mercy, Jesus uses men like Moses, Matthew, Paul, and your pastors to minister to you with Word and Sacraments. Through his mercy, Jesus brings sinners like you into his church. To pray. To praise. To confess. To listen. To sing. To support his church.I visited Bob Albrecht this week as a shut-in visit. We talked about God bringing new families to our church. Bob is one of the founding members of Lord of Lords. I thanked Bob for God using him and others to start this church. Some of you were here when Bob and Doris Miller came to Lord of Lords with their seven children. People were excited to see them because they doubled the size of the church. God may move you away from Casper someday. Then he can use you to start a church out of your home -- much like Lord of Lords was started.In my office is a framed picture of Martin Luther's Sacristy Prayer. It was a gift from the Altar Guild at Water of Life. "Lord God, You have appointed me as a Bishop and Pastor in Your Church, but you see how unsuited I am to meet so great and difficult a task. If I had lacked Your help, I would have ruined everything long ago. Therefore, I call upon You: I wish to devote my mouth and my heart to you; I shall teach the people. I myself will learn and ponder diligently upon Your Word. Use me as Your instrument -- but do not forsake me, for if ever I should be on my own, I would easily wreck it all."Though Moses, Matthew, and Paul were not great to begin with, God made them great and grew his Kingdom through them. Please pray that your pastor may be a leader like Moses, an evangelist like Matthew, and a preacher like Paul. Pray that God may show mercy to your pastor so he may convey God's mercy to you. Pray that God may show mercy as he continues to minister to you through his Church. Amen.

On this episode, Paul White continues to talk about Balaam. Accompanying scripture: Jude 11. 

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Reformed Baptist of Pine Bush is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Balaam Chronicles Subtitle: Biblical Theology Speaker: Paul Gordon Broadcaster: Grace Reformed Baptist of Pine Bush Event: Teaching Date: 6/4/2026 Bible: Numbers 22-24 Length: 50 min.

On this episode, Paul White talks about Balaam. Accompanying scripture: Jude 11. 

EXODUS LESSON 73 PART 2 I strongly urge you to listen to Lesson 73 part 1 before listening to part 2.  You'll see how important it is to make sure you do this to get a better understanding of the questions and issues in these verses.  Here's the link for part 1 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/exodus-73-part-1-exod-3210-18-god-cant-change-his-mind/ One major problem we'll deal with is the way the translators of the New American Standard Bible 1995 translated the Hebrew in Exod. 32:14 to come up with the phrase, “God changed His mind.”  In part 1 it is so clear that God does not change and never changes His mind.  This is a major issue and one wonders how this could've happened since again and again the very words of God show the truth that God does not change and never changes His mind.  Below check out the chart.  You'll see that the NASB is the only Bible version that uses the phrase “God changed His mind.” The King James (KJV) and the Amplified Bible (AMP) and the Jewish Publication Society (JPS) translations are probably the most accurate.  The Lord repented or turned away from one thing to turn to another.  Repent in Hebrew comes from the Hebrew verb LaShuv לָשׁוּב meaning to turn around or to go back.  The Strong's number H7725.  It is the verb that forms the Hebrew word for repentance of Teshuvah תְּשׁוּבָה.  It is not just connected to doing repentance from sin.  It could be one wants to give up smoking.  So one would turn from smoking and to turn to something else.  In other words one is doing Teshuvah תְּשׁוּבָה from smoking.  That is how the Bible uses the word and not just related to sin.  Thus, God is turning from one thing to do another.  I wrote an article on trying to get at this in a more understandable way.  Here's the article below. Does God change His mind? How can this be?  We have two verses that contradict each other.  Consider ... Exodus 32:14 So the LORD changed His mind about the harm which He said He would do to His people. (Exo 32:14) Malachi 3:6 "For I, the LORD, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed." (Mal 3:6) Which is it? If God does not change then how did Moses have God change His mind and yet God says He will not.  This is not like God.  This is nuts.  I thought the Bible was in full agreement!!  Can this be explained?? Also, one reads in the very words of God that certain people will be restricted from the Assembly of God.  Deu 23:1-8  "No one who is emasculated or has his male organ cut off shall enter the assembly of the LORD.  (2)  "No one of illegitimate birth shall enter the assembly of the LORD; none of his descendants, even to the tenth generation, shall enter the assembly of the LORD.  (3)  "No Ammonite or Moabite shall enter the assembly of the LORD; none of their descendants, even to the tenth generation, shall ever enter the assembly of the LORD,  (4)  because they did not meet you with food and water on the way when you came out of Egypt, and because they hired against you Balaam the son of Beor from Pethor of Mesopotamia, to curse you.  (5)  "Nevertheless, the LORD your God was not willing to listen to Balaam, but the LORD your God turned the curse into a blessing for you because the LORD your God loves you.  (6)  "You shall never seek their peace or their prosperity all your days.  (7)  "You shall not detest an Edomite, for he is your brother; you shall not detest an Egyptian, because you were an alien in his land.  (8)  "The sons of the third generation who are born to them may enter the assembly of the LORD. It says that all Moabites are so restricted and yet Ruth gets in.  Why?  How?  (Listen to part 1 carefully regarding the Moabites.  No Moabite will be allowed in to the Assembly of Israel up to an including the 10th generation by God's own words.  Wait till you see how Ruth is probably of the 11th generation when one studies the Bible in its historical context.  So, she can get in and she did!) It says that a MUMZER will not enter and Timothy is a mumzer - his mom was Jewish and his dad a pagan (Hebrew for one of illegitimate birth)!!  Timothy!!  He became a leader of the assembly of Messiah in Ephesus.  We say as Gentiles we are grafted in but the Torah says NO!!  God says it loud and clear.  What is going on?  How can both be true?  Oh sure. One is the church and one is the synagogue.  Right??  It can't be.  This is a conundrum!!  Let's check the Hebrew of Exod. 32:14 and Mal. 3:6. Exo 32:14  וינחם H5162  יהוה H3068  על H5921  הרעה H7451  אשׁר H834  דבר H1696  לעשׂות H6213  לעמו׃ H5971  Mal 3:6  כי H3588  אני H589  יהוה H3068  לא H3808  שׁניתי H8138  ואתם H859  בני  H1121  יעקב  H3290  לא H3808  כליתם׃ H3615  In English we are reading the word “change” (as to change one's mind in Ex 32:14 - word # 5162) and change (as to someone not changing as in Mal 3:6 - word #8138).  In Exod 32:14 God "racham's" - it does NOT say He changes His mind!!  The word racham is the word that is translated as "He changed His mind."  That phrase is not even there.  A better way to say this is that God repents; God turns from one thing to another.  He REPENTS.  Moses did NOT change HIS mind.  What happened is God has set in place either punishment or a curse on those who are unrighteous.  That is His intention.  However,  equally part of HIS intention is God's other option to forgive and erase the punishment if there is true repentance.  Both options exist for God.  It is one or the other - this is His simultaneous intention and purpose.  Moses intervened for Israel and God did not change His mind.  He can't.  What God did was to turn, to repent, and allowed the other option.  Both options are in play, both are His intentions.  God has laid out those two options as part of His intentions.  Thus, He did not change at all. In Mal 3:6 the word is "shanaw."  This has the picture of "folding" one side on another.  It has the implication of duplicating.  God stays constant.  He is ONE and will remain ONE.  He is the Lord and HE does not go from one intention to another.  Like with Moses God had either punishment or forgiveness.  Both exist at once as God's intentions.  In the case of sin this is God - both exist.  He will turn from one to the other, from punishment to forgiveness if there is true teshuvah, repentance from the sin, and will not do option 1 but option 2.  God is like that.  He is always like that.  God has it all covered and these options are already in place with HIM as His intentions.  He will not do anything that is not already a part of HIMSELF.  Thus, we study Torah to know HIM deeply and intimately and to begin to understand His ways.     Finally, Moses was the greatest prophet of the Hebrew Scriptures (Deut. 34:10).  God tells Moses the following … “I will raise up a prophet from among their countrymen like you, and I will put My words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him.” (Deu 18:18) This is the Lord's prediction of the future coming of His Son, Yeshua HaMashiach, Jesus the Messiah.  So, Jesus is a prophet like Moses; for us as disciples of Jesus we'd say Jesus is the Greatest Prophet ever.  But, we are to be disciples of Jesus or talmidim תַּלְמִידִים.  A talmid is one who is a student of a rabbi and who lives to be like his rabbi.  Check out the article entitled "Rabbi and Talmidim" at this link ... https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/rabbi-and-talmidim Jesus says this quite clearly … “A pupil (from the Greek to the Hebrew is TALMID) is not above his teacher (from the Greek to the Hebrew is RAV or master. We say RABBI); but everyone, after he has been fully trained, will be like his teacher.” (Luk 6:40)   Thus, if we are real talmidim we are to be like Jesus.  He was given the words of His Father to proclaim and thus Jesus is a prophet.  But we are given the words of Jesus to go and proclaim.  So, we are prophets as well in that Jesus sends us to bring the word to the Ends of the Earth.  And as Moses offers prayers of intercession for Israel so Jesus offers prayers of intercession for His talmidim and the church, His Bride.  Thus, if we are truly living to be a true disciple then we to must be ones who offer prayers of intercession for the ones we meet as well.  We are to be like Him and follow Paul's teaching when he taught that we are to be like Paul since he is like his master, his RAV, Jesus (1Cor. 11:1). Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?  (Ferret - somewhere in the desert north of Eilat Israel) What's his background?  Why should I listen to him?  Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0          

Jude understood the wreckage false teachers can leave behind: polluted witness, weakened biblical authority, and a “cult of personality” that distracts from following Christ. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef unpacks Jude's strong language—calling these apostates “dreamers” who crave their own glory while denying the true Gospel (Jude 1:8). Because they often appear spiritual on the outside, Jude gives believers three vivid clues—each rooted in a familiar Old Testament story: The way of Cain (Jude 1:11; Genesis 4): choosing self-made religion over God's revealed way—twisting worship into self-expression and resisting repentance. Balaam's error (Jude 1:11; Numbers 22–24): using spiritual influence for profit, following feelings instead of Truth, and harming God's people through compromise. Korah's rebellion (Jude 1:11; Numbers 16): ego-driven leadership that refuses God's appointed authority and turns ministry into a power grab—destructive and doomed. Dr. Youssef reminds us that apostates dream of salvation without a Savior, peace without repentance, and unity without Christ. But believers are not helpless. Christ has equipped His people to recognize falsehood, hold fast to the Gospel, and push back against deception—for the glory of His name. Prayer: Lord, may I be alert to the schemes of the enemy and bold to confront false teaching in my midst out of zeal for Your name. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “In the very same way, on the strength of their dreams these ungodly people pollute their own bodies, reject authority and heap abuse on celestial beings” (Jude 1:8). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon series Contend for the Faith: WATCH NOW|LISTEN NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

What does it truly mean to welcome others the way Christ welcomed us? This powerful exploration of Romans 15 challenges us to examine how we receive people into our faith communities. We discover that the 'strong' believers aren't necessarily those who've been Christians the longest, but those who understand their freedom in Christ without the baggage of religious tradition. The early church faced a profound struggle: Jewish believers steeped in 1,500 years of ceremonial law had to embrace Gentile believers who came with no religious background whatsoever. The message is clear—when Jesus said 'It is finished' on the cross, He wasn't just paying for our sins; He was tearing down every barrier that separates us from God and from each other. The beautiful Greek word 'proslambano' paints a vivid picture of taking someone by the arm, walking shoulder to shoulder through their journey. This isn't casual acquaintance—it's intimate, intentional discipleship. We're reminded of Jesus washing His disciples' feet after receiving all authority in heaven and earth, choosing humility over power. The three parables in Luke 15—the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son—all culminate in the same response: rejoicing and celebration. Heaven throws a party over every single person who comes home to God. When we fail to welcome others with the same joy and grace that Christ showed us, we're not just being unfriendly—we're sinning against the very heart of the Gospel.**SERMON NOTES – Romans 15:1–13****1. Strong & Weak Believers (Rom 15:1–3)**  - In Romans, “strong” = mainly Gentile believers who understand they are free from OT ceremonial law (Sabbaths, food laws, feasts).  - “Weak” = mainly Jewish believers still bound in conscience to OT ceremonies; they lack faith to enjoy their freedom.  - Obligation of the strong: bear with the weak, not please themselves; build others up.  - Christ is the example: He did not please Himself but bore reproach for others (Ps 69).**2. Scripture, Endurance, and Hope (Rom 15:4–6)**  - OT was written “for our instruction” so that through endurance and encouragement of Scripture we might have hope.  - Old Testament stories (e.g., Israel in wilderness, Shadrach/Meshach/Abednego, Balaam) show God's faithfulness despite human failure.  - Goal: harmony, accord, one voice glorifying God—hence corporate worship and unified praise.**3. Welcoming Like Christ (Rom 15:7)**  - Command: “Welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.”  - Greek *proslambanō*: to take by the arm, draw close, walk with; intimate, committed welcome.  - Seen in:   - Peter taking Jesus aside (Mt 16:22),   - Priscilla & Aquila taking Apollos aside to teach more accurately (Acts 18),   - The people of Malta welcoming shipwrecked Paul (Acts 28).  - To add extra requirements for belonging (like Pharisees' added laws) is near blasphemy.**4. God's Heart for Sinners (Luke 15)**  - Three parables (lost sheep, coin, son): all end in rejoicing.  - Heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents; God receives sinners with joy.  - If we refuse to welcome those Christ welcomes, we sin against His heart.**5. Dispensations & “It Is Finished”**  - Jesus lived and obeyed under the Law to fulfill it perfectly, then declared, “It is finished.”  - Veil torn: access to God opened; we now live in the age of grace.  - We approach God by faith, not ceremony; no more sacrifices—just bold access.**6. The God of Hope (Rom 15:13)**  - God of hope fills us with joy and peace in believing.  - By the Spirit we “abound in hope”: assurance that sin's penalty is paid and God is not angry with us.  - Our assignment: carry this hope to our generation; God placed us in this time and place (Acts 17:24–27).---**PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS**1. Identify where you're “strong” and tempted to look down on “weaker” believers. Choose to bear with and build up instead.  2. Practice *proslambanō*: literally take someone new or struggling by the arm—sit with them, listen to them, walk with them.  3. Repent of any “extra rules” you expect from others that Jesus did not.  4. Use your testimony as your primary evangelism tool: “I was… but Christ…”  5. This week, ask God for one open door to share the hope you have and step through it in dependence on the Spirit.---**DISCUSSION QUESTIONS**1. In what areas of Christian freedom do you see yourself as “strong”? Where might that make you impatient with others?  2. Have you ever felt like a “weak” believer bound by conscience? What helped you grow?  3. What does “welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you” practically look like in our church?  4. Where have you added expectations for people that Jesus doesn't require?  5. Which OT story especially encourages your hope right now, and why?  6. Who is one person God may be asking you to “proslambanō” this month? What's your next step with them?

The sermon, drawn from Revelation 2:12–17, presents a powerful call to faithfulness amid both external persecution and internal spiritual compromise, focusing on the church in Pergamum as a case study in enduring temptation. Though the believers are commended for steadfastness under Roman persecution—refusing to deny Christ even in the face of martyrdom—they are rebuked for tolerating false teachings that lead to spiritual adultery through participation in pagan idolatry and sexual immorality, echoing the sins of Balaam and the Nicolaitans. The central message underscores that true discipleship demands total allegiance to Christ, rejecting any form of syncretism that compromises worship, even when disguised as cultural accommodation. Jesus, portrayed as the victorious, all-powerful Lord wielding the sharp two-edged sword, warns of imminent judgment on those who tolerate such compromise, yet offers a profound promise of victory to the overcomer: hidden manna and a white stone with a new name, symbolizing intimate fellowship, purity, and divine recognition. The sermon concludes with a pastoral exhortation to vigilance, urging believers to awaken from spiritual complacency, reject worldly seductions, and live with renewed devotion to Christ, whose sacrifice has made them a royal priesthood, called to holiness and eternal life.

We've got a good study from Jude lined up for you today on a Daily Walk. If you'll recall when we left you last time pastor John Randall looked at a couple of Old Testament examples, that really show us what false teachers are like.First was Cain, who represents establishing their own form of righteousness, and then there was Balaam… who would lead others to sin through greed. As we pick things up at verse eleven we're going to explore the rebellion of Korah. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1368/29?v=20251111

Jude 5–16 (ESV)5  Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. 6  And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day— 7  just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.8  Yet in like manner these people also, relying on their dreams, defile the flesh, reject authority, and blaspheme the glorious ones. 9  But when the archangel Michael, contending with the devil, was disputing about the body of Moses, he did not presume to pronounce a blasphemous judgment, but said, “The Lord rebuke you.” 10  But these people blaspheme all that they do not understand, and they are destroyed by all that they, like unreasoning animals, understand instinctively. 11  Woe to them! For they walked in the way of Cain and abandoned themselves for the sake of gain to Balaam's error and perished in Korah's rebellion. 12  These are hidden reefs at your love feasts, as they feast with you without fear,shepherds feeding themselves; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted; 13  wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever.14  It was also about these that Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of his holy ones, 15  to execute judgment on all and to convict all the ungodly of all their deeds of ungodliness that they have committed in such an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against him.” 16  These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage.+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++For more information about this group, please visit their website at reformationboise.com. Every weekday at 3:30 am and 7:30 am you can listen to The Gospel for Life on KSPD 94.5 FM and 790 AM Boise's Solid Talk in the Treasure Valley,  Idaho, USA.If you have a question, comment, or even a topic suggestion for the Pastors, you can email them.  If you enjoy The Gospel for Life, please give us a rating and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. That helps us a lot!Phone: (208) 991-3526E-mail: thegospelforlifeidaho@gmail.comPodcast website:  https://www.790kspd.com/gospel-for-life/to donate on line https://www.reformationboise.com/donate

In today's message, Pastor Jack shares that our faith operates through the "rhema" word, which is the spoken and personally revealed word of God that brings light into our situations and equips us to move mountains, heal the sick, and break through life's barriers. He emphasizes that we must actively use and feed on our faith throughout our lives, holding fast to our confessions, because if our faith stops working, we risk backsliding or even falling into apostasy. Looking at biblical figures like Esther, Joseph, Cain, Balaam, and Corein, Pastor Jack warns us of the severe spiritual consequences of ignoring God's revelations or practicing lawlessness, explaining that an outward appearance of churchgoing cannot replace an intimate, obedient relationship with God. Ultimately, he highlights that the gifts and callings God places on our lives are irrevocable, and by continually placing our faith in Him to supernaturally guide our careers, marriages, and families, we will remain secure, produce fruit, and never draw back from following Christ. Tune in now!Join us for service every Sunday at 9 and 11am (PST) and Wednesday at 7pm (PST)If you received Christ through this message, text JESUS to (253) 859-0832We would love to hear how God is touching your life through this ministry! Tell us your story in the comments!If you would like to partner with us financially, online giving is available through PushPay: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://theriver.church/give/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Looking to connect with us? Follow us on social media and download our app to stay connected and encouraged throughout your week! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.theriver.church⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.facebook.com/riveroflifekent⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.twitter.com/riveroflifekent⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.instagram.com/riveroflifekent⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.theriver.church/app⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#RiverFam⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#KentWA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#SeattleWA

The Rebbe addresses why Moshe Rabbeinu chose to record seemingly negative stories such as the episode with Balak and Balaam. He explains that these stories contain hidden positive lessons and moral teachings, emphasizing the importance of extracting goodness from within negative narratives. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/018/009_003

The Rebbe discusses Balaam's blessings, exploring how negative intentions can be transformed into positive outcomes. He analyzes why Balaam's blessings hold significant strength and how this reflects the potential for profound change in challenging situations, aligning with divine will. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/013/007_001

The Rebbe explores the unique situation where Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, blesses the Israelites instead of cursing them. This reversal of intent demonstrates the divine providence and mission of the Jewish people as it connects to God's overarching plan for history and redemption. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/018/009_002

The next two letters, both found in Revelation 2, speak to churches that are both being influenced by false teaching. And both instances encourage us to look back to two Old Testament figures...Balaam and Jezebel. 

Text: Deuteronomy 6-8; 15; 18; 29-30; 34 Supplemental Text: The Third Thousand Years chapter 20 BYU Lecture 23: Finally, the Lord declares that Israel is now ready to enter Canaan, the Promised Land. Moses is 120 years old and is in the last year of his life. He has also recently lost Aaron and Miriam. Moses takes the hosts of Israel on a march towards the east of the Dead Sea, avoiding the Anaks. Along their march, God instructs Moses not to fight against three groups or tribes: the Edomites (children of Abraham through Esau, known today as Arabs), nor the Moabites or Ammonites (both groups descended from Abraham through Lot). The story of the fallen prophet Balaam is told and how he colluded with the Midianites to corrupt the youth of Israel. Moses is told that he is allowed to see the Promised Land but he cannot enter it. In his final 30 days of mortality, Moses devotes himself to record the book of Deuteronomy – God's Laws. Moses is translated and Joshua takes the lead as the Israelites march into the promised land. The miracle of the river divided. Manna is now stopped. Joshua puts all Israel under covenant to God by circumcising the men and then marches around Jericho and the walls fall.

The Lord was ready to bring Israel into the Promised Land in just eighteen months. Instead, it took forty years. Is your own "wilderness wandering" a result of geography, or is it a matter of the heart? Summary: In this episode, we dive into the Book of Numbers. We move past the genealogies to uncover the spiritual friction that keeps us from moving forward. We analyze the pivotal moments where faith collided with fear and learn how to speed up the clock on our own spiritual progress. The Timetable of Faith: We discuss how our activities or procrastinations can "slow the hands of the clock" on God's promises. The Report of the Spies: We contrast the "grasshopper complex" of the ten spies with the "mountain-moving faith" of Joshua and Caleb. The Brazen Serpent: We explore the profound simplicity of "looking to live" and why we sometimes refuse the easiest cures offered by the Savior. Miriam and Aaron's Murmuring: We look at the dangers of "steadying the ark" and questioning local and prophetic leadership. The Daughters of Zelophehad: We conclude with the beautiful balance of agency and order found at the end of the book, proving that the "Number" God cares most about is the individual soul. Call-to-Action: Are you currently in a "Caleb" season of faith or a "Grasshopper" season of fear? What is one "giant" in your way that you are ready to overcome with the Lord's help? Share your journey in the comments! To keep your faith "Unshaken" while navigating the wilderness, please like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell. Chapter Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction 2:21 The Book of Numbers: "Wander, Wander, Die" 12:44 Numbering Israel & Setting up Camp 22:08 Setting Up Camp 31:29 Ransoming the Firstborn 51:28 Awakening a Guilty Conscience 1:06:56 Set Apart for God 1:24:26 Gifts to God 1:41:55 Flexibility & Obedience 1:59:09 Murmuring about the Manna 2:18:15 The Meekness of Moses 2:47:05 Spying Out the Land 2:57:16 Faith or Fear 3:14:18 Rebellion in the Ranks 3:36:55 Proof of the Priesthood 3:54:24 Moses' Mistake 4:07:34 The Brazen Serpent 4:20:23 Balaam & the Rewards of Unrighteousness 5:00:18 Idolatry & Adultery 5:09:00 Renumbering Israel & Exceptions to the Rule 5:18:47 Successors & Mentors 5:35:47 Unity & Diversity 5:46:33 Exodus & Inheritance 5:58:59 Conclusion

Podcast for primary children who belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (and friends!) Following the Come Follow Me program. This episode we cover Moses and the quail, Moses and the brass serpent, and the story of Balaam and the talking donkey. Children will learn these principles; I can be thankful for what God has given me. Faith can help me not be afraid. Faith can help me not be afraid. The Lord wants me to follow His prophet. Jesus Christ has the power to heal me spiritually. I can follow God's will, even if others try to persuade me not to. Not officially affiliated with the church. Old Testament podcast for kids. Contact us as comefollowmekidspodcast@gmail.com

We want to hear from you! Send us some Fan mail! This week on Go & Do, Candis Shupe dives into the wilderness story of Israel a journey filled with miracles, complaints, second chances, and one very unexpected talking donkey.In this episode, you'll explore:

In this episode of Don't Miss This, Dave Butler and Grace Freeman study Numbers 11-14 , 20-24, 27 and step into the journey in the wilderness, a story that reveals what it looks like to follow God through seasons of waiting, wandering, and becoming. As the children of Israel move forward, they are guided by a cloud by day and fire by night, learning to trust God's timing in every step. Yet along the way, distractions begin to rise. Complaining replaces gratitude, fear overtakes faith, and comparison clouds their perspective. Again and again, they face the same choice: will they see their circumstances through fear, or will they trust in what God has already shown them? Through stories of manna, Moses' burdens, the spies in the promised land, and the brazen serpent, we see a powerful reminder that what we look at shapes what we experience. The people who focused on fear missed the promise, while those who chose faith saw possibility. And in one of the most striking moments, the Lord invites them to simply look to be healed, pointing forward to Jesus Christ and the power of His saving grace. This episode invites us to consider how we are seeing our own lives. Because God has always been determined to bless His people, even in the wilderness. The question is not just what we are going through, but how we are choosing to see it. When we learn to look to Him, we begin to recognize that even here, even now, He is leading us toward something promised. Chapters: 00:00 INTRO 04:55 Guidance by the cloud and fire 09:22 Moses feeling overwhelmed and tired 11:34 Identifying your support network 14:53 Miriam and Aaron's jealousy of Moses 16:43 Miriam's wake-up call 22:02 Caleb's faith and perspective 25:41 Lessons from the promised land story 29:26 Renewing Faith and Overcoming Temptation 32:00 Moses and the bronze serpent 34:08 Jesus offers spiritual healing 38:17 Balaam's talking donkey adventure 40:43 Balaam's story and blessing Israel 45:15 The priestly blessing explained 47:17 Wrapping up and social media links Sign up for the Don't Miss This newsletter at www.dontmissthisstudy.com #dontmissthis #comefollowme NEWSLETTER LINK: The Don't Miss This video, the prayer poster, and tip-ins for kids, teens, couples and individuals can all be found in this week's newsletter. Sign-up link in bio if you haven't had a chance yet!! www.dontmissthisstudy.com Instagram: @dontmissthisstudy Podcast: Don't Miss This Study Facebook: Don't Miss This Study Follow Grace Instagram @thisweeksgrace Follow David Instagram: @mrdavebutler Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrdavebutler/ Subscribe to the Don't Miss This App https://www.dontmissthisstudy.com/app

→ Watch on YouTube → Detailed Show Notes → Timestamps: (00:00) A brief overview of these chapters.(02:35) The Israelites murmur and complain in the wilderness. How we respond to our afflictions will shape our character. We can strive to see God's hand in our lives like Nephi and Francis Webster.(15:34) The book of Numbers contains evidence that it is a compilation of separate traditions. Understanding these traditions helps to explain some contradictions in the text.(21:48) Israel murmurs and lusts for meat instead of manna. The Lord abundantly blesses them with quail.(25:11) Moses complains that he can't bear the burden alone and is commanded to choose 70 to assist him. The very essence of Christianity is to have compassion for those who are downtrodden.(29:24) The Greek translation of manna leads to fascinating possibilities. The Israelites loathe the manna and want something exciting and new.(35:41) Aaron and Miriam challenge Moses' authority. Numbers 12 portrays Moses as God's authorized representative, emphasizing hierarchical priesthood authority.(39:08) Moses sends 12 spies to search the land of Canaan. Ten of them bring back a negative report, telling of giants inhabiting the land. Joshua and Caleb give a positive report and say that Israel can take the land of Canaan.(43:20) Moses stands as intercessor, working to convince the Lord to not smite the Israelites. The adult Israelites murmur and want to die in the wilderness. The Lord grants this request, while also emphasizing that he desires to have a righteous people who will build Zion.(47:34) Miriam and Aaron die in the wilderness. Moses will see, but not enter the promised land.(49:42) The king of Edom refuses to let Israel pass peacefully through his land. We can choose to not be offended.(52:04) The Israelites are plagued and bitten by fiery serpents. Moses lifts up a serpent of brass to save those who will look upon it. This story is told in greater detail in the Book of Mormon. We should not be slothful because of the easiness of the way.(1:00:00) Og, the king of Bashan, is described as the last of the giants. His bed is described with the same dimensions as that of Marduk, a Mesopotamian deity.(1:02:16) Balak offers Balaam money, cattle, and great honors to curse Israel. Balaam refuses, and instead pronounces great blessings upon Israel.(1:13:54) Another perspective on why the Lord was angry with Balaam. → For more of Bryce Dunford’s podcast classes, click here. → Enroll in Institute → YouTube → Apple Podcasts → Spotify → Amazon Music → Facebook The post Ep 370 | Numbers, Come Follow Me 2026 (May 4-10) appeared first on LDS Scripture Teachings.

Dr. David Thomson returns to unpack the twelve spies, the science-faith relationship, and what Balaam's donkey teaches us about the people who see what we can't.YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/3Y8zqekYn5IFREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook WEEKLY NEWSLETTERhttps://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE:00:00 - Part 2 - Dr. Dave Thomson01:34 Giants and grasshoppers: “We're toast!”02:34 Caleb and Joshua vs the ten–focus on God05:10 Believing Jesus Christ07:18 Trust what Jesus Christ said He can do11:51 “We're not earning heaven, we're learning heaven.”13:42 Elder Renlund reminds to choose to keep the commandments16:46  2 Nephi 25:23 reimagined20:45 Science and faith–a perceived conflict23:44 President Nelson: All truth is compatible29:59 Alma 32 and the Scientific Method33:43 Balaam and his donkey29:43 Who are the donkeys in your life?41:30 Dr. Thomson's donkeys49:39 President Hinckley taught that faith is like a muscle51:48 Muscle growth and faith59:17 Closing testimonies1:47:18 End of Part 2 - Dr. Dave ThomsonThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com

Well, we see biblically that there has been some judgment. We've talked about last week how Balaam did something that he taught Balak, the king of Moab, how to cause Israel to stumble, and what was that stumbling into idolatry? Israel consistently has that problem with struggling with idolatry, and that shouldn't surprise us, because we all do, what is idolatry? Idolatry is a desire to get your needs and your wants and your desires met through an alternative God. https://get.theapp.co/yjjqTo donate please visit us at:https://loveisrael.org/donate/Checks may be sent to:LoveIsrael.org

Send us Fan MailAlthough the prophet Balaam publicly blessed Israel—serving as the prophetic vessel God used—he indirectly and clandestinely advised Balak against Israel. Balaam recognized God's stance regarding Israel, yet greed dominated him in his final days. He loved unjust gain more than obedience to God.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail         Aunque el profeta Balaam bendijo públicamente a Israel siendo el vaso profético que Dios usó, indirectamente y clandestinamente aconsejó a Balac  en contra de Israel. Balaam reconocía cual era la posición de Dios sobre Israel, pero la codicia lo dominó a final de sus días. Amó más el lucro injusto que la obediencia a Dios.   Support the show

Warning: Not everything that looks like the Holy Spirit is the Holy Spirit - and the Church needs to know the difference!Healings, prophecies, tongues, signs, and wonders are on the rise in the Church, but so is deception. We have to ask: Can the demonic actually counterfeit the gifts of the Holy Spirit? In this episode, we explore Scripture, church history, and theology to give you a serious, grounded answer.From the sorcerers of Pharaoh's court mimicking the miracles of Moses (Exodus 7:11–12), to the witch of Endor who brings up Samuel from the dead (1 Samuel 28), to the slave girl in Philippi whose spirit of divination produced accurate prophecy (Acts 16:16–18), the Bible is remarkably frank that the enemy is in the business of imitation. Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14), and his servants are no different.Working through passages like Deuteronomy 13, Acts 16:16-18, Matthew 7:21-23, 2 Thessalonians 2:9-11, and 1 John 4:1-3, the guys walk through a biblical framework for discernment. Doctrine matters. But so does character, track record, submission to a local body, and the spiritual gift of discernment of spirits. They also wrestle with one of the strangest categories in Scripture: unbelievers who traffic in real spiritual power. Balaam. Caiaphas. The judges. The slave girl in Philippi who prophesied accurate things by a python spirit. What do we do with that? The answer isn't to run from the supernatural, but rather to pursue maturity so you can recognize the real thing.The goal isn't fear. It's discernment. Moses didn't stop demonstrating God's power just because Pharaoh's magicians could mimic a few signs. And the church today shouldn't either. We pursue the genuine. We hold it up against the false. And we trust that Yahweh is still greater than the gods of Egypt.0:00 – Introduction5:13 – Counterfeit Miracles Defined7:45 – Pharaoh's Magicians Examined13:08 – Discerning True vs. False19:36 – Slave Girl, Deuteronomy 1331:37 – Unbelievers Trafficking Holy Spirit47:38 – Eschatological False Prophets54:04 – Personal Experiences Shared58:09 – Biblical Evidence Summary1:00:54 – Closing: Christ-Centered GiftsINTRODUCTION TO DELIVERANCE MINISTRY:https://www.theremnantradio.com/intro-to-deliverance-ministry___________________________________________INTRODUCTION TO DELIVERANCE MINISTRY eCoursePRESALE: $100 OFF through May 1 LEARN MORE: https://www.theremnantradio.com/intro-to-deliverance-ministry Subscribe to The Remnant Radio newsletter and receive our FREE introduction to spiritual gifts eBook. Plus, get access to: discounts, news about upcoming shows, courses and conferences - and more. Subscribe now at TheRemnantRadio.com. Support the showABOUT THE REMNANT RADIO:

Witness / Wk.0222 But God's anger was kindled because he went, and the angel of the Lord took his stand in the way as his adversary. Now he was riding on the donkey, and his two servants were with him. 23 And the donkey saw the angel of the Lord standing in the road, with a drawn sword in his hand. And the donkey turned aside out of the road and went into the field. And Balaam struck the donkey, to turn her into the road. 24 Then the angel of the Lord stood in a narrow path between the vineyards, with a wall on either side. 25 And when the donkey saw the angel of the Lord, she pushed against the wall and pressed Balaam's foot against the wall. So he struck her again. 26 Then the angel of the Lord went ahead and stood in a narrow place, where there was no way to turn either to the right or to the left. 27 When the donkey saw the angel of the Lord, she lay down under Balaam. And Balaam's anger was kindled, and he struck the donkey with his staff. 28 Then the Lord opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, “What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?” 29 And Balaam said to the donkey, “Because you have made a fool of me. I wish I had a sword in my hand, for then I would kill you.” 30 And the donkey said to Balaam, “Am I not your donkey, on which you have ridden all your life long to this day? Is it my habit to treat you this way?” And he said, “No.”31 Then the Lord opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, with his drawn sword in his hand. And he bowed down and fell on his face.Numbers 22:22-31We were wired to belong.People are willing to go to great lengths to be known by others, but God has gone farther.24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. John 17:24How far is God willing to go in order to be seen?Witness: a person who sees, hears, or experiences an event firsthand; particularly a crime or an accident.Balaam is the picture of your “spiritual” person today who will try it all but will not serve any specific god; they are their own god.So Balak the son of Zippor, who was king of Moab at that time, 5 sent messengers to Balaam the son of Beor at Pethor, which is near the River[a] in the land of the people of Amaw, to call him, saying, “Behold, a people has come out of Egypt. They cover the face of the earth, and they are dwelling opposite me. 6 Come now, curse this people for me, since they are too mighty for me.Numbers 22:5-67 So the elders of Moab and the elders of Midian departed with the fees for divination in their hand. And they came to Balaam and gave him Balak's message. 8 And he said to them, “Lodge here tonight, and I will bring back word to you, as the Lord speaks to me.” Numbers 22:7-8Balaam is a witness toThe God Who Speaks12 God said to Balaam, “You shall not go with them. You shall not curse the people, for they are blessed.” Numbers 22:12God speaks clearly:“This command… is not too hard for you… the word is very near you.”Deuteronomy 30:11-14 (paraphrase)“Write the vision; make it plain…”Habakkuk 2:2“I have spoken openly to the world… I have said nothing in secret.”John 18:20God speaks truthfully:“God is not man, that he should lie…”Numbers 23:19“It is impossible for God to lie…”Hebrews 6:18“The Father of lights… with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”James 1:17God speaks effectively:“My word… shall not return to me empty…”Isaiah 55:10-11 (paraphrase) the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.”Psalm 19:8God speaks personally:“It is impossible for God to lie…”Hebrews 6:18“The Father of lights… with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”James 1:17The God Who Warns22 But God's anger was kindled because he went, and the angel of the Lord took his stand in the way as his adversary. Now he was riding on the donkey, and his two servants were with him. 23 And the donkey saw the angel of the Lord standing in the road, with a drawn sword in his hand. And the donkey turned aside out of the road and went into the field. Numbers 22:22-23The God Who Pursues28 Then the Lord opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, “What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?”Numbers 22:28 The God Who Turns Curses Into Blessing28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good,[h] for those who are called according to his purpose.Romans 8:28 13 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree”—Galatians 3:13The God Who he Belongs to32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?Romans 8:32“You say, ‘I want to see more.' What more do you want than the Son of God crushed under the wrath of God for sinners?”Paul Washer“The greatest display of God's love is the cross of Christ. If that does not win your heart, nothing will.”John Piper

When cursing God's people didn't work, Balaam changed tactics. What emerged was a familiar method used to this day by adversaries of the faith: when you cannot curse God's people, corrupt them.    #KingdomSpeak #Podcast  #Balaam

Fr. Mike describes the sinful events of Israel in Moab, and why God chooses to bless the Israelites through Balaam in spite of their sin. Today's readings are Numbers 24-25, Deuteronomy 26, and Psalm 107. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike shares more details surrounding the Old Testament laws, including why God would give us these laws in the first place. Today's readings are Numbers 23, Deuteronomy 24-25, and Psalm 106. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike dives into the character of Balaam, and why his offense was so treacherous towards his relationship with God. Today's readings are Numbers 22, Deuteronomy 23, and Psalm 105. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.