Podcasts about Baptism

Read Online“No one patches an old cloak with a piece of unshrunken cloth, for its fullness pulls away from the cloak and the tear gets worse. People do not put new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise the skins burst, the wine spills out, and the skins are ruined. Rather, they pour new wine into fresh wineskins, and both are preserved.” Matthew 9:16–17The parable above teaches us that even if someone were to faithfully understand and live the authentic Law that was given through Moses and the prophets, Jesus' new teaching of grace, the New Law, was so different that it was not simply an improvement of the old, it completely replaced it. Furthermore, many of the customs taught by the Pharisees were unfaithful representations of the Law of Moses. They had deviated from the Law's meaning and replaced it with their own scrupulous and erroneous multiplication of external practices. Thus, Jesus' New Law needed to break away from these deviations completely.To use a modern example, if you were to have an old phone that had become obsolete or stopped working, you wouldn't buy a new phone so as to remove various parts from it to try to add those parts to the old phone to fix it. Instead, you use the new phone as a complete replacement for the old one.A central quality of the New Law of grace is that it is entirely new and transforming. Therefore, by embracing this New Law, we become entirely new creations in Christ. Grace doesn't simply patch that which is weak and sinful in us. It transforms us, elevating our human nature to an entirely new existence.This teaching is not only directed at the misguided teachings that the Pharisees had developed over the years, it was directed at human life itself. Not only were the Jewish customs to go through a transformation, humanity itself was to go through a transformation. Everything is made new in Christ. This teaching applies just as much to us today as it did to the Jewish people of old. Today, we not only receive the new life of grace in Baptism, but we also receive it anew and share in this ongoing transforming renewal every time we allow grace to touch us more deeply and transform us more fully into the people God wants us to be. The “new patch” and the “new wine” are always transforming, and we must look forward to this newness throughout our lives. Reflect, today, upon the joyful discovery that awaits you every day. Discovering the New Law of grace, accepting it into your life, and allowing it to transform you will set you on a path of discovery that will never get old. It is an ongoing discovery that is far greater than anything this world has to offer. Nothing can ever compare to the gift of God alive in our lives. It will never get old. It will always be transforming. And it will always be new. Ponder this gift God offers you today and say “Yes” to it with all your heart. My transforming Lord, You continuously offer to renew me, transform me and elevate me to the life of grace. I thank You for this Gift and desire to accept it with all my heart. May I always be ready and willing to say “Yes” to You and the transformation that awaits me as I discover this ever new treasure of Your Grace. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Titian, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Psalm 141 (CEV)Andrew, Isack, and Edwin find Jesus in Psalm 141.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=21984The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

We spin the Wheel of Opinions, give tips for dating in 2025, and more!

We spin the Wheel of Opinions, give tips for dating in 2025, and more!

Gospel Talks Podcast – Ep. 53: From Addiction to Redemption with Tony MendezIn this gripping and hope-filled episode of Gospel Talks, host George Binoka sits down with Tony Mendez, a man whose journey from addiction, trauma, and jail to freedom, faith, and family restoration is nothing short of miraculous.Tony opens up about the pain of his childhood, the instability of his home, the deep wounds left by broken relationships, and how those circumstances drove him into years of substance abuse. But that's only the beginning.You'll hear how God used the faithful love of Tony's sister, the support of his church community, and the power of the gospel to bring real transformation into his life. From sleeping beside a freeway addicted to fentanyl, to now being clean, baptized, and leading others to Christ, Tony's story is a powerful testimony to the love of Jesus and the truth that no one is beyond redemption.

Today, we're diving into the theological debate surrounding infant baptism, exploring the perspectives of paedobaptism versus credobaptism. We examine the arguments for infant baptism, practiced by Catholics and some Protestants (such as Presbyterians), and the Catholic belief that it washes away original sin. We also unpack the credobaptist position, held by Baptists and many non-denominational churches, which emphasizes believers' baptism as an outward sign of inward faith, rooted in New Testament examples like Jesus' immersion baptism. We'll look at key scriptures, historical church practices, and the reasoning behind both views and give our thoughts on what we believe to be true. Find a church: https://church.founders.org/ Share the Arrows 2025 is on October 11 in Dallas, Texas! Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠sharethearrows.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for tickets now! Sponsored by: ⁠Carly Jean Los Angeles⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.carlyjeanlosangeles.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Good Ranchers⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.goodranchers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠EveryLife⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.everylife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Buy Allie's new book, "Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion": ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://a.co/d/4COtBxy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Timecodes: (05:29) New merch! (07:26) What is baptism? (10:42) Protestant paedobaptism (23:17) Catholic paedobaptism (26:08) Credobaptism --- Today's Sponsors: We Heart Nutrition — Get 20% off women's vitamins with We Heart Nutrition, and get your first bottle of their new supplement, Wholesome Balance; use code ALLIE at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.WeHeartNutrition.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Good Ranchers — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GoodRanchers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and subscribe to any of their boxes (but preferably the Allie Beth Stuckey Box) to get free Waygu burgers, hot dogs, bacon, or chicken wings in every box for life. Plus, you'll get $40 off when you use code ALLIE at checkout. Fellowship Home Loans — Fellowship Home Loans is a mortgage lending company that offers home financing solutions while integrating Christian values such as honesty, integrity, and stewardship. Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠fellowshiphomeloans.com/allie⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get up to $500 credit towards closing costs when you finance with Fellowship Home Loans. EveryLife — The only premium baby brand that is unapologetically pro-life. Visit ⁠everylife.com⁠ and use promo code ALLIE10 to get 10% off your first order. --- Episodes you might like: Ep 867 | Should We Baptize Babies? | Q&A https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-867-should-we-baptize-babies-q-a/id1359249098?i=1000626856947 --- Links: Founders Ministries: "An Analysis of Reformed Infant Baptism" https://founders.org/articles/an-analysis-of-reformed-infant-baptism/#:~:text=Paedobaptists%20look%20for%20a%20profession,the%20children%20of%20professing%20believers Got Questions: "What is the importance of Christian baptism?" https://www.gotquestions.org/Christian-baptism.html Desiring God: "Where Did Baptism Come From?" https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/where-did-baptism-come-from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary: "Believers' Baptism in the Patristic Writings" https://www.sebts.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/5-Believers-Baptism-Steve-McKinion.pdf --- Buy Allie's book, You're Not Enough (& That's Okay): Escaping the Toxic Culture of Self-Love: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://alliebethstuckey.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Relatable merchandise – use promo code 'ALLIE10' for a discount: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shop.blazemedia.com/collections/allie-stuckey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Selected Scriptures

The transformative concept of being "a new creature in Christ" encapsulates the profound metamorphosis that occurs when one accepts Jesus Christ as their Savior. This episode delves into the remarkable journey of personal redemption, emphasizing the radical change that accompanies a genuine faith in Christ. Through the testimony of Jay Jay, we explore how a life once mired in adversity and turmoil can be rejuvenated and redirected towards purpose and hope. This discussion serves not only as a testament to individual transformation but as an encouragement to all believers that spiritual renewal is attainable. Ultimately, we invite our listeners to reflect on their own experiences and the continuous journey of becoming who God created them to be.Takeaways: The transformation into a new creature in Christ signifies the profound change that occurs in a believer's life, where old habits and sins are replaced by a renewed spirit and purpose. In the journey of faith, we are reminded that God works in mysterious ways, often using our past struggles to shape our future and help others who may be in similar situations. Baptism serves as a public declaration of faith, symbolizing the believer's commitment to follow Christ and marking the beginning of a new life filled with hope and direction. The process of sanctification is ongoing, indicating that even after accepting Christ, believers continue to grow and mature in their faith, striving to embody Christ-like characteristics in their daily lives. Through sharing personal testimonies, we can encourage others, showing them that redemption is possible regardless of their past, and highlighting the hope found in a relationship with Jesus. God places significant individuals in our lives, such as mentors and friends, who can guide us through our spiritual journeys, demonstrating His provision and care during our times of need. Links referenced in this episode:Abundant Life PodcastCanilu AirLamp Light MinistriesGospel Talks Podcast

Have you ever wondered what the Baptism of the Holy Spirit truly means? Join us as we journey through the Bible to bring clarity to this powerful Christian doctrine, exploring its Old Testament roots and New Testament fulfillment.In this episode, we unravel the biblical texts that define the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, from Acts of the Apostles to Paul's epistles. We'll tackle the nuances of indwelling vs. empowerment, the significance of Pentecost, and the Old Testament prophecies that foretold the New Covenant outpouring of the Holy Spirit. We'll examine:✅ The core debate: Is the Baptism of the Holy Spirit a subsequent or simultaneous experience with conversion? ✅ The classical Pentecostal position and their key proof texts from Acts, including the role of tongues and spiritual gifts. ✅ The prophetic connection between baptism with fire and God's judgment or purification. ✅ A crucial dive into 1 Corinthians 12:13, clarifying the Baptism of the Holy Spirit as a salvific event that unites all believers into Christ's body. ✅ The historical context of Acts 2 and Acts 8 (Jews & Samaritans) versus Acts 10 (Gentiles) and why it matters for our understanding today. ✅ The significance of the Day of Pentecost and its powerful parallels with Old Testament events, inaugurating the New Covenant. ✅The crucial question: Is this just a semantic debate, or does it profoundly impact church unity, the gifts of the Spirit, and how we view fellow believers? (No “two-tiered Christians” here!) ✅ Our concise definition of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit from a “Radical Middle” perspective.This discussion will equip you to understand this vital theological topic with clarity, charity, and a deeper appreciation for the power of the Holy Spirit in every believer's life.0:00 Intro: Baptism of the Holy Spirit4:42 The Core Debate: Subsequent or Simultaneous?6:52 Classical Pentecostal View & Proof Texts19:39 Baptism with Fire: Judgment or Purification?32:38 Acts 2, 8 vs. Acts 10: Historical Context44:16 Pentecost & the New Covenant50:53 Semantics or Real Division?59:28 A “Radical Middle” Definition 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:

Ever wish you could be forever young? Or fast-forward to eternal life? With baptism, you can! Find out how the waters of baptism lead you back to the source of life in the Spirit, and the life of the future Kingdom, now.

June 30, 2025Today's Reading: 1 Kings 19:9b-21Daily Lectionary: Joshua 5:1-6:5; Acts 10:1-17“And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper” (1 Kings 19:12)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. “What are you doing here, Elijah?” Elijah is at the end of his rope. He's been a good and faithful servant. He outran his persecutors, cared for a widow and her son, and even performed miracles. The boxes on his prophet to-do list are nearly all checked off. You can imagine what he must have been thinking, after the lengths he had gone to approach God on Mt. Horeb, for God to say, “What are you doing here?”Elijah makes his case for retirement. Telling God that He's fought the good fight, run the race, and can't go on any longer. Yet, in that silly question God asks Elijah, we see that God is not done with his prophet. There's more to do. Just as Elijah was jealous for the Lord, the Lord is jealous for His people. Elijah's work is not finished. There are still words to proclaim, people to serve, and places to bring the Word of the Lord. Elijah is not alone. There is a faithful remnant—a remnant that he must go to so he may pass on his mantle to the next prophet who will serve them.Life can be overwhelming, and we, too, can feel like Elijah did in this world. Take comfort and know that even Elijah was alone and desired nothing more than the end of his ministry to God's people and, quite frankly, the end of his life. God heard him and answered him—not in mighty acts and wonders, not in the natural world around him, but God answered Elijah and comforted him with a word.In the same way, God comes to you in your distress with His living and active word. God's “What are you doing here?” is that extraction that God does all too well. It leads Elijah to confess his sins, worries, doubts, and anxieties. God hears them, acknowledges them, and proclaims to him the Absolution. The same is true for you. God sends you your pastor so that you might go to him as often as you are jealous for that Word of God as Elijah was, that you would confess your sins that burden you to him, and he would proclaim that Absolution that your sins are forgiven. He reminds you that you are a child of God whom your heavenly Father loves. You can rest in the arms of their crucified and risen Savior.Elijah would go and find Elisha and continue the work God had for him. God is with you and is present in His Word, in your Baptism, and in His Supper. As often as you have need, if you ever doubt, remember your sins are forgiven and covered in the blood of Jesus. God sees you—yes, you who are standing before Him, and doesn't say, “What are you doing here?” but instead says, “This is my beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Make them apostles, heralds of your cross; Forth let them go to tell the world of grace. Inspired by You, may they count all but loss And stand at last with joy before your face. (LSB 682:5)- Justin Chester is a seminary student at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.In Clarifying the Great Commission, Rev. Daniel Christian Voth identifies common omissions from our collective understanding of Jesus' farewell discourse—omissions that turn Christ's promises of forgiveness, life, and salvation into a legalistic command. Come and discover a richer understanding of The Great Commission.

Trust and Baptism Psalm 16 The Second Sunday after Trinity Sunday, June 29, 2025 Rev. Andrew DeFusco, Rector Church of the Redeemer, Nashville, TN www.Redeemer-Nashville.net

The sermon explores the concept of holiness and God's covenantal relationship with families, particularly focusing on the status conferred upon non-believing spouses and children within Christian households. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 7:14, it argues that an unbelieving husband married to a believer is made holy, and similarly, children of even one believing parent possess a certain status before God, marked by ritualistic holiness akin to baptism. The message emphasizes the responsibilities of Christian parents to raise their children in the Lord, with the congregation committing to support them in this calling, culminating in the baptism of a child as a visible sign of God's covenant and blessing.

Baptism: Your Step to Identify with Jesus   Pastor Lawson Perdue teaches about the basics of faith, focusing on baptism. He says believing in Jesus changes everything! Baptism is a […] The post The Basics Part 2 – Lawson Perdue appeared first on Charis Christian Center.

We want to encourage you to not just sit back and watch, but to really engage along with your church family today. So, gather up the family and grab your Bible, share this and invite your friends, turn your volume up, and let's worship Jesus TOGETHER today!Ready to take a next step? (Baptism, serving, etc) https://harvesttime.churchcenter.com/people/forms/125818Need prayer? Text HTPRAYER to 97000 and someone from our team will connect with you.Give online here: https://harvesttime.net/give

2025-0629 - Identification in Baptism

Baptism is a powerful, public way to show that our lives have changed through God’s forgiveness—it’s not about earning forgiveness but declaring the freedom we’ve already received. It also encourages us to hold on to hope in the resurrection, which promises a real, renewed life with God, where all pain and brokenness will be healed. Finally, saying “amen” to the Creed is like saying, “Yes, I’m all in” committing to live out these truths every day, letting our faith shape how we love, work, and face life’s challenges. References: “In the new heavens and new Earth, there is no death, no suffering. There are no funeral homes or abortion clinics or psychiatric wards. There are no assaults or missing children or drug rehabilitation centers. There is no bigotry, no muggings, no killings, no worry or depression or economic downturns. There are no wars. There is no unemployment, no anguish over failure and miscommunication. No more of that forever. No conmen, no locks. No death, no mourning, no pain, no boredom, and no arthritis. No handicaps, no cancer, no taxes, no bills. No computer crashes, no weeds, no bombs. There is no drunkenness, no traffic jams or accidents. There are no septic tank backups. There is no mental illness, no unwanted e-mails. There are close friendships, but no cliques. There is laughter, but no put-downs, no laughter at the expense of someone else. There is intimacy, but no temptation to immorality. There are no hidden agendas, no backroom deals, no betrayals. Imagine mealtimes full of stories, laughter and joy, without any fear of insensitivity or inappropriate behavior, anger, gossip, lust, jealousy, hurt feelings, or anything else that eclipses our joy. That will be heaven. Can you imagine the beauty?” - Randy Alcorn “To confess the faith and say ‘amen’ is to make what we believe into something shared and public and recognizable, not just a fleeting thought in the heart. When we say ‘I believe’ in our baptism, or ‘we believe’ in a Sunday liturgy, we are making a commitment that is a pledge of allegiance, joining us to other believers around the world in the body of Christ, some of whom are bound to get into trouble for making this commitment.” - Philip Carey TRANSCRIPT

In that temple, you will find shelter and forgiveness...

June 28, 2025 Today's Reading: Introit for Pentecost 3 - Psalm 85:8-10, 13; antiphon: Psalm 85:7Daily Lectionary: Joshua 3:1-17; Acts 9:1-22“Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.” (Psalm 85:7)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. When God feels far away, how would you pray to Him? What do I do when God is angry with me?The sons of Korah ask these questions of God in Psalm 85.Israel has endured the exile, and no one wants to endure that again. The future looks unclear, and history shows that for Israel the days of David and Solomon were not coming back. Life can be equally as anxious for us. Times have changed. Friendships come and go. Relationships end. Opportunities we hoped for never turn out, and life never seems to slow down. It can seem like we never quite have a handle on things.The life of the Psalmist and for the people of Israel was not about getting the upper hand. It certainly was not about going back to how things used to be, no matter how grand they appeared. We often romanticize the past and hold on to nostalgia. Those days aren't coming back, though.The life of the Psalmist is knowing where our peace and salvation come from. It comes from God Himself. Israel was passed around like a nobody to the nations. It wasn't that they didn't deserve it; it was that they did, and God heard their cries, remembered His promises, and brought them back.You may be mourning a loved one, unsure of where to go next in life, or suffering from illness in the mind and body. When you reach the edge where doubt is near, and God feels far away, remember what the sons of Korah demanded of God. “Show us your steadfast love, O Lord, and grant us your salvation.”You have a God who loves you and sent His Son to die for you. Whose word tells you the steadfast love God has for you through our Lord Jesus. In Jesus, your salvation is near—it is yours. It's not a matter of what I have to do to earn it, but a matter of your sins being forgiven. Nothing will take you away from the love your Father has for you. Not political uncertainties, not momentary crises of life, not sickness, and not death.God's salvation is revealed to you in your crucified, risen, and ascended Lord Jesus. You have your Baptism to remind you of that day you were made a child of God—united to your Savior so that as you endure these final things in these last days, you find comfort in the Word, knowing your identity is sealed in the water. You are strengthened in the eating and drinking of His Body and Blood under the bread and wine. Come, Lord Jesus. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.All glory to the One Who lavishes such love; The triune God in love Assures our life above. His means of grace for us Are gifts He loves to give; All thanks and praise for His Great love by which we live! (LSB 602:6)- Justin Chester is a seminary student at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.In Clarifying the Great Commission, Rev. Daniel Christian Voth identifies common omissions from our collective understanding of Jesus' farewell discourse—omissions that turn Christ's promises of forgiveness, life, and salvation into a legalistic command. Come and discover a richer understanding of The Great Commission.

If we receive the Holy Spirit in Baptism, why do we need Confirmation? The answer might surprise you!

Ever wondered what the Bible says about Pentecostalism and the "Baptism of the Holy Spirit?" The guys dive into how God used the gift of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost to begin to destroy racism across the globe.

"Beyond Sunday" are episodes from Adam and Narrate staff that dive deeper into our life with Christ.Hear owner Jessica's story of her faith journey, her daughter's baptism, and the confirmation of her own faith. 

To live forever. That has been the goal of many a man throughout history...

In today's show Dr. Anders responds to questions about: The need for baptism, What do Protestants mean by "Led by the Spirit"?, the vocation of singles in the Church and more. (Originally aired on 7/1/24)

June 27, 2025Today's Reading: Acts 8:26-40Daily Lectionary: Joshua 2:1-24; Acts 8:26-40“And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him.” (Acts 8:38)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. The Ethiopian Eunuch was missing something. He had worship; He had the scroll of the prophet Isaiah (Is. 53), and yet it did not make sense to him.Now, to be clear, Philip is not the pastor who can unlock the secrets of Scripture with his wicked interpretation skills. Philip is the pastor who gets to proclaim the key to all the scriptures—the key that opened up the scriptures to Philip and all the disciples. This key, of course, is that perfect Sunday School answer type of key. I'm talking about Jesus!Philip, brought by the Spirit, had to be ecstatic when he saw he could talk to this guy about Jesus. The eunuch hears the Gospel. He hears of Jesus, the Lamb of God, who was led to the slaughter and did not say a word. That Jesus who died for sinners by taking their sin and making them His own. The Lamb Jesus who silently takes our punishment that brought us peace, and by His wounds, we are healed.This Gospel, the Good News that God justifies sinners by the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus, is that Word of the Lord that does not return empty. The Holy Spirit, through Philip, the pastor, preaches the Gospel that creates faith in the Ethiopian Eunuch.Then, water comes into the scene. Faith and Baptism go hand in hand. The Holy Spirit works faith by the hearing of the Word, and the Word that works faith is joined to the waters of Baptism. The eunuch understood and was brought to faith by the work of the Holy Sp,irit who called him by the Gospel. That faith in Christ saves, and he wanted to be united to the Word made flesh that went like a lamb to the slaughter to save Him. Philip, the pastor, baptizes him, and the rest is history.Rejoice in the daily reality of your Baptism, where the Holy Spirit created faith in you, and in those words and promises of God in and with the water, you were united to Christ, your Savior. Surely as He died, you died. Surely as He has risen from the dead, so you also will rise again. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.It sets the Lamb before our eyes, Who made the atoning sacrifice, And calls the souls with guilt oppressed To come and find eternal rest. (LSB 580:2)- Justin Chester is a seminary student at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.In Clarifying the Great Commission, Rev. Daniel Christian Voth identifies common omissions from our collective understanding of Jesus' farewell discourse—omissions that turn Christ's promises of forgiveness, life, and salvation into a legalistic command. Come and discover a richer understanding of The Great Commission.

Read OnlineBut when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out. John 19:33–34John's Gospel is filled with deep spiritual imagery and symbolism. It is clear that this imagery and symbolism was divinely inspired so as to give us spiritual food for reflection and meditation. One such image is given to us today as we celebrate the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.As Jesus and the two criminals on either side of Him hung upon their crosses, the soldiers came to hasten their deaths by breaking their legs to cause them to more quickly suffocate. But when they came to Jesus, He had already died. So one of the soldiers, traditionally known as Longinus, thrust his spear into Jesus' side, and blood and water flowed forth. Some traditions identify Longinus with the centurion who cried out after Jesus' death, “Truly, this was the Son of God!” (See Matthew 27:54.) Other traditions state that he converted at that moment, making him the first convert to Christianity. And still other traditions state that Longinus could not see well, and the blood and water from Jesus' side poured upon his eyes, healing him. Regardless of whether these traditions are true, we know that Jesus' side was pierced and blood and water flowed forth.The symbolism of this act was more than a mere human symbol. It was an instrument of the profound spiritual reality that was taking place at that moment. As Jesus' Sacred Heart was pierced, the blood and water that poured forth was the new sacramental life of the Church. The Blood was the Most Holy Eucharist and the Water was the gift of Baptism. And when Jesus had previously “breathed His last” and “handed over His Spirit,” the Sacrament of Confirmation was bestowed.When we celebrate those Sacraments today, it is easy to see them as mere symbols of what we partake in. But in our Christian Tradition, the Sacraments are so much more. The symbol is also the reality. It is the instrument of what it symbolizes. Therefore, every time we witness a Baptism or partake in the Holy Eucharist, we are mystically present with Longinus, receiving the grace and mercy of our redemption, pouring forth from Jesus' wounded side, so as to heal us and make us whole.The human heart is, physically speaking, a bodily organ responsible for pumping blood throughout. But from a spiritual perspective, given that we are both body and soul, the human heart is also the source of our life. Without it, we physically and spiritually die. So it is with the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It was not only a physical heart that was physically pierced by the lance long ago. It is now also the source of our ongoing spiritual life, and, without Jesus' Sacred Heart of Mercy, we will die in our sins.Reflect, today, upon the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. See His Heart as the ongoing source of your new life in grace. Understand that His Heart is more than a symbol of His grace and mercy, it is the spiritual source and the font of that mercy. Prayerfully place yourself before His Cross, this day, and allow the blood and water, flowing from His wounded side, to cover you so that you, too, may believe. Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, You poured out upon the world the love and mercy of Your transforming grace through the instrument of the blood and water pouring forth from Your wounded side. Help me to gaze upon this font of mercy and to be covered with it through the gift of the Sacraments. May I always be open to all that You wish to bestow upon me by these precious and transforming instruments of Your love. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Behold the Pierced One! by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Have you ever wrestled with God? Have you wrestled with God and prevailed? Few wrestle with God, fewer wrestle with God and win. Jacob wrestled with God for one night, and his life was changed forever. He was given a new name, a new identity, and the name God gave him was given to a whole nation. The Israelis are forever a passionate people, full of fight. When will we, as Gentiles, direct our fight and passion toward our relationship with God? 

With what are you struggling today?...

Bible Q&A Show with Pastor Derek Walker of Oxford Bible Church

Bible Q&A Show with Pastor Derek Walker of Oxford Bible Church

Can a pope change infallible doctrine? What does the Church teach about receiving the entire Trinity in Holy Communion? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, we explore key theological topics and respond to common questions about the Catholic faith. Learn how to respond to Calvinist interpretations of key Scripture passages, understand why the Eucharist is more than just Christ's flesh and blood, and dive into the origins of the doctrine of receiving Christ's body, blood, soul, and divinity. We also examine why the Catholic Church typically uses pouring rather than full immersion for Baptism. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:52 – How can Catholic theology respond to Calvinist interpretations of Matthew 1:21, Philippians 1:6, or 1 Peter 3:18? 09:00 – Does receiving Holy Communion also mean receiving the Holy Spirit and God the Father, based on the doctrine of the Trinity? 30:04 – What prevents a pope from changing infallible Catholic doctrine? 42:51 – What is the origin of the teaching that the Eucharist is the reception of Christ's body, blood, soul, and divinity—not just His flesh and blood? 50:12 – Why doesn't the Catholic Church practice full immersion Baptism as the normative form?

Mother Miriam Live - June 25th, 2025 Mother reads from a new article by Leila Miller: "Catholic Parents: Free the Hearts of Your Daughters" - https://crisismagazine.com/opinion/catholic-parents-free-the-hearts-of-your-daughters A Caller Supports the Article's Message How the Holy Spirit Comes at Baptism and Confirmation Observant Muslims and Marriage

Continuing in our Table Talk series, Josh, Curt, and Spencer discuss baptism.

What is baptism? Is baptism required for salvation? Is baptism just a religious performance or is there something spiritual happening in the water? In this episode, Glen Scrivener breaks down what baptism really means, why it's so much more than just a symbol, and how it connects us to the story of Jesus. Whether you're wondering if you should get baptized, confused about its purpose, or exploring what faith looks like in action, this conversation clears up the confusion and gets real about the spiritual depth of baptism. If you've ever asked, “Do I need to be baptized?”—this is for you.

I like going to parties. Recently, we had a whole string of them...

Pastor Jeff Cranston continues his conversation with Pastor Jason of Crossway Church as they dive deeper into what makes the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination distinct. They explore how the Alliance approaches communion and baptism, what a typical Sunday service looks like, and how its leadership structure supports both local autonomy and global mission.

Join us this week as we revisit Presbyterian minister Daniel Baker's A Plain and Scriptural View of Baptism (1853). In this concise, winsome exposition—rooted in both adult and infant covenantal theology—Baker distills biblical teaching on the mode and significance of baptism. Based on an earlier Washington, D.C. sermon (A Scriptural View of Baptism, 1827), and later condensed into Baptism in a Nutshell (1856), his timeless clarity continues to edify today. Tune in to discover why his pastoral voice remains so compelling for thoughtful Christian listeners.

What kinds of things did you learn from your parents?...

In this summary of the Church's teachings on Baptism, the Catechism relays the heart of the sacrament. If you needed to quickly explain Baptism to someone on the street—Fr. Mike says—this would be your guide. Fr. Mike hones in on the fact that Baptism is “a grace and a gift of God that does not presuppose any human merit.” Today's readings are paragraphs 1275-1284. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Start your week strong with this powerful Monday devotional on The Kirk Cameron Show! Kirk and his son James dive deep into what it really means to wait on the Lord—not passively, but actively, with courage, confidence, and hope. Drawing from Romans 4 and the story of Abraham, Kirk shares how faithful waiting shapes your walk with God. In this episode, we also open the mailbag and answer your heartfelt questions about: Baptism and salvation Healing from heartbreak Building a better marriage Infant baptism Eternal security ("once saved, always saved") To learn more about the sponsor of today's show and what our family currently uses for our healthcare check out Christian Healthcare Ministries by visiting https://hubs.ly/Q02vWQGy0 Editing and production services provided by thepodcastupload.com #KirkCameron #TheKirkCameron #WaitingontheLord #QandA #KirkAnswers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Read OnlineAll who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be?” For surely the hand of the Lord was with him. The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the desert until the day of his manifestation to Israel. Luke 1:65–66John the Baptist was formed by the hand of the Lord. Saint Thomas Aquinas goes so far as to say that John was sanctified in the womb of his mother, Elizabeth, as is written: “He will be filled with the holy Spirit even from his mother's womb” (Luke 1:15). From the moment that the Blessed Virgin Mary greeted Elizabeth and John leaped for joy, the hand of the Lord was upon John, making him holy and leading him to the fulfillment of God's holy will.John's early life is not recorded for us, other than in the passage quoted above. We are told that he “grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the desert until the day of his manifestation to Israel.” We should see in this passage the truth that John was not only sanctified within the womb of his mother but that, throughout his childhood and on into adulthood, he remained deeply united to God and was filled with the Holy Spirit.Today we honor one particular aspect of John's life—his birth. We know that he was blessed to not only be born into the blessed family of Elizabeth and Zechariah but that the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, was also his relative and was present at his birth. Zechariah, his father, gave him the name “John” even though it would have been the custom to call him Zechariah after his father. Zechariah did this in obedience to the Archangel Gabriel, who appeared to him prior to John's birth and instructed him to do so.Great mystery and excitement surrounded the birth of John, and there is little doubt that those who were present at his birth would have been caught up in the intrigue and hope of who he would become. And John didn't disappoint. It was of him that Jesus one day would say, “I tell you, among those born of women, no one is greater than John…” (Luke 7:28).Though you may not have had the privilege of being sanctified in the womb of your mother, or to have had your father receive a revelation from the Archangel Gabriel prior to your birth, you are, nonetheless, called to be guided by the hand of the Lord each and every day. God wants you to become “strong in spirit” so that you can fulfill the unique will given to you. We honor the great saints, in part, because they give us an example of how to live. For that reason, we must see in each of their lives the model to which we must conform. The primary witness set by Saint John the Baptist is that he was unwaveringly obedient to God and to being formed by His hand. The result was the glorious fulfillment of his unique mission in life, all the way to giving his life as a martyr. Reflect, today, upon the very real fact that, though you were not sanctified in the womb, you were sanctified by Baptism. From there, you were strengthened by the Spirit through Confirmation and are regularly fed by the Most Holy Eucharist. In many ways, you are just as blessed as John.Reflect upon the simple yet profound fact that God wants to use you for His holy mission. He gives to you some particular mission He has not entrusted to another. Say “Yes” to that mission today so that you, too, will be seen as “great” in the Kingdom of Heaven.Lord of all greatness, You sanctified Saint John the Baptist in the womb, and You continued to pour forth Your grace upon him throughout his life. He responded to You and fulfilled his glorious mission. I thank You for the sanctification given to me by my Baptism and strengthened through Confirmation and the Holy Eucharist. Help me to be open to all the graces You wish to bestow so that I may fulfill the unique mission given to me. Jesus, I trust in You.Image Luca Giordano, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

The Catechism shows us how Baptism unites the Church as a “People of God of the New Covenant” and goes so far as to say that “Baptism constitutes the foundation of communion among all Christians.” We all belong to Jesus, together. Fr. Mike highlights the fact that with the gift of unity in Baptism comes real responsibility. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1267-1274. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Baptism has profound effects upon the baptized: “purification from sins and new birth in the Holy Spirit.” The Catechism shows us that the graces of Baptism are so deep that—for the newly baptized—“nothing remains that would impede their entry into the Kingdom of God.” Fr. Mike relates to us the hard teaching that we are born mere beloved creatures of God—but through Baptism, we become adopted sons and daughters of God. Today's readings are paragraphs 1262-1266. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

“Baptism is the sacrament of faith.” The Catechism explains to us who can baptize as well as why we need Baptism for eternal life. It also explains to us what happens when people die without the opportunity for Baptism. Fr. Mike addresses our “what about” questions concerning Baptism. Most especially, Fr. Mike addresses the destination of those who will never have the opportunity to hear the Gospel or be baptized. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1253-1261. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Put simply, “[e]very person not yet baptized and only such a person is able to be baptized.” The Catechism explains to us the purpose of Baptism for both adults and infants. Fr. Mike doubles down and makes sure we understand that Baptism is for everyone. God wills Baptism for all people. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1246-1252. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Together with Fr. Mike, we continue our examination of the sacrament of Baptism, specifically the mystagogy of the rite of Baptism. The Catechism explains each and every element of the Baptismal rite, from the Sign of the Cross to the baptismal water. Fr. Mike concludes with a reflection on Baptism as the beginning of our sacramental journey and how we are called to walk as children of God throughout our lives after our Baptism. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1234-1245. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

We continue our examination of the Sacrament of Baptism, specifically how we celebrate the sacrament and the different elements that must always be present in Baptism. Fr. Mike emphasizes that while infant Baptism has become the “form in which this sacrament is usually celebrated,” post-baptismal formation and instruction is necessary in order for the full flowering of the graces received in the Sacrament of Baptism. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1229-1233. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Together, with Fr. Mike, we continue our examination of the sacrament of Baptism. Fr. Mike emphasizes that each and every one of the Old Covenant prefigurations are fulfilled in Christ Jesus. He also unpacks Christ's own Baptism in the Jordan, explaining that when Christ is baptized by John the Baptist, he brings the “mess of humanity” into the Jordan with him and makes the waters of Baptism holy. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1223-1228. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.