Podcasts about baptisms

Pastor Robert Tisdale preaches at Tampa Life Church from John 9, launching deeper into his “MUD” series and contrasting how Jesus and the disciples viewed a man blind from birth: others saw a problem and looked for blame, but Jesus saw potential and God's glory. He warns that diagnoses and labels can help explain pain but become dangerous when they define identity, limit imagination, and turn into a destination; he urges the church to seek deliverance as intensely as diagnosis. He cites Hebrews 11:6 on faith and references the nocebo effect to show how labels shape outcomes, calls people to renounce negative self-talk and self-blame, prays for healing and freedom, and points to Jesus' command after making mud—go wash—even when the touch feels incomplete and confusing.00:00 Welcome and Baptisms00:19 Series Recap MUD02:11 John 9 Setup03:29 Labels vs Deliverance08:04 Faith to Be Whole08:59 Testimonies and Response12:23 Prayer and Breakthrough15:42 Hebrews 11 Explained18:21 Nocebo and Identity21:02 Renounce the Labels25:18 Stop Self Blame Loops31:30 Go Wash and Obey

BREVITY IS THE SOUL OF WIT

It's a week of transitions as both Lakeview and Safety Harbor are saying goodbye to staff members. We talk about the often-overlooked art of offboarding well, celebrating people for their service, blessing them on their way out, and remembering that healthy ministry includes healthy endings.Tim had one of those marathon ministry Sundays that remind you why pastors sleep on Mondays. Three services in the morning, a new members class in the evening, and just enough caffeine to make it all happen. Somehow, he survived.Meanwhile, Andrew took what felt like half of Safety Harbor Community Church to a ballgame. It turned out to be one of those rare church events that required almost no convincing, no complicated logistics, and left everyone asking when the next one would be.The conversation also turns to baptism. When should a baptism happen publicly in front of the congregation? Are there situations where a private baptism is appropriate? What are the pastoral considerations that go into making that decision?It's a conversation about transitions, long Sundays, easy ministry wins, and helping people take their next step of faith.

Surveys indicate Christianity in America is on the grow. The surveys also indicate the growth is occurring among Gen-Z. So then, where is this spiritual growth actually occurring? For sure, it is not happening among the old, staid denominations where the church, for the most part, continues to be traditional, ritual, predictable, and in the words of one, boring. Renewal and revival of Christianity in America is coming primarily from non-denominational churches and spirit-filled Pentecostal movements. Those growth churches are offering experiential expressions of faith, real Biblical experiences different from and better than the traditional American protestant denominations. At one time, non-denominational Christian churches consisted of approximately 5% of American protestants (1972). Today, those growing non-denominational churches comprise of roughly 30% of all such protestant churches. Why is such growth occurring, wondered the pundits and especially the non-believers. The answer is simple. Those churches function under the direction and influence of the Holy Spirit where the real, vital, saving, forgiving Gospel of Jesus Christ is believed and preached. Pentecostal churches are growing. The Assemblies of God, among the many spirit-filled churches reported growth in: 1. CHURCH SERVICE ATTENDANCE 2. NEW MEMBERSHIP 3. CONVERSIONS AND SAVING EXPERIENCES 4. BAPTISMS 5. THE BUILDING OF NEW CHURCHES So many people, including the young from Gen-Z, want the real Christianity or nothing at all. Spirit-filled Pentecostal movements offer Christian reality, even as so many churches in denominations turn woke, liberal, social, even political in emphasis and so often replace the Gospel with social agendas. The church should be where the real Gospel is preached, where real spirit-led worship occurs, and where the soul is satisfied and blessed. Holiness and Pentecostal churches reported at least 4% growth in all the above categories, and these non-denominational churches far outperformed the old-line denominational churches. These non-denominational churches are “functionally charismatic” even if they do not describe themselves as Pentecostal. They do not belong to Assemblies of God or THE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST, or foursquare, but their worship styles and theology clearly emphasize expressive worship, spiritual gifts, and direct encounters with God. The real Gospel, the Holy-Spirit-led worship characterizes the beliefs and the worship services of these growing non-denominational Christian churches. In years past, surveys indicate the younger generations (Gen-Z and more) were indifferent and turned off by Christianity and Christian worship. This may have been the case, but then came the growth of these non-denominational, spirit-filled, spiritually-experiential Christian churches, and therefore membership and involvement dramatically increased. The surveys indicate this younger, non-denominational church-goer and worshipper was significantly more diverse than many of the membership in the historic and traditional protestant denomination. These surveys indicated only 60% of the new non-denominational church worshippers where white. Many of the new worshippers were Hispanic, African American, or even Asian. This new spirit-filled church was truly the right example of diversity in race and ethnicity, equity and equality among all men and women in worship, and the inclusion of all (DEI) in worship led by the Holy Spirit, belief in and the preaching of the real Gospel, and where the Bible ruled. People today are hungry for the real Gospel, the real worship experience, for real Bible teaching. The real Gospel would have us as believers rejoice, be glad, be happy, be exuberant in our faith. The real Gospel, as Jesus said, would have us live life abundantly, emotionally, lovingly. These spirit-filled non-denominational churches offer this spiritual reality and more. The growth in non-denominational churches was incredible. In 2010, there were some 35,000 such churches and congregations. Today, there are 44,000 non-denominational church congregations in America, with an estimated 21 million members and worshipers. 21 MILLION soul-satisfied congregants and adherents. PRAISE THE LORD! Churches exist for one reason only: to proclaim Biblical truth, the real Gospel, the salvation experience, the forgiveness and reconciliation to God the Father, and to worship, all of which allow for direct encounters with the very God and the Son, Jesus Christ. These churches offer this and everything real in Scripture, which is why they are growing, and the growth has only just begun. PRAISE THE LORD!

This service includes a number of baptisms, communion, membership and tithing. Pastor read a Scripture passage and explained each event. A morning of celebrataion!

The longing for forgiveness and the fullness of God's presence are a promised gift that flows from repentance and baptism. (Acts 2:36-41) Our message notes can be found here http://www.gatheringcafe.com/thewestsidegathering/podcasts/WSGmsg20260531_DavidM.pdf

Ephesians Series – 09 – Ephesians 4:17-32 Includes testimonies from Adam, Imbi and Ange

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Heather to have one of the most honest conversations we've had on the podcast about grief, trauma, therapy, suffering, and mental health through a Christian lens.Heather shares her story of losing her husband suddenly, wrestling with God through pain, and learning how lament, community, and biblical truth helped her navigate devastating loss. We also dive deep into the differences between secular therapy, Christian therapy, and biblical counseling — including the dangers of over-diagnosis, trauma culture, emotional repression, and why many Christians avoid getting help.Whether you're walking through grief, struggling mentally, supporting someone in pain, or simply trying to think biblically about mental health, we pray this episode encourages you.New conversations every Thursday at 12:00 PM EST.

Logan Ebler Dedication - 0:00-7:40Testimonies 1st Service - 7:40-28:00Baptism Stories - 28:00-43:34Lincoln Stalker Dedication - 43:35-49:30Testimonies 2nd Service - 49:30-1:08:09 

Baptisms !!

Group Guide Use this guide to help your group discussion as you meet this week. 2 Samuel 14 Spencer Cary Download TranscriptGood morning. What a wonderful morning. Baptisms are a time to truly be thankful that God redeems any of us and that we get to enjoy the benefits of what it means to follow him, belong to him in the context of the church community. What a blessing. We're continuing to walk through 1 and 2 Samuel. We're in 2 Samuel chapter 14 today.We'll spill into chapter 15 as well. We've got quite a bit of story to get through. Let me give us a little bit of a recap from last week. It'll be on page 303 in the Black Bible. So if you're going to grab a Bible nearby, you can follow along with us.Last week, really last week in the next few chapters, we're kind of living in the aftermath of David's sin. What we saw last week is that his son Anon desired his half-sister Tamar, and then he assaulted her. And we saw the devastation of that spill into two years of Tamar's brother waiting for his opportunity to exact revenge, and then we saw Absalom kill Amnon. And we are in the aftermath of that tragic story, and we're going to see more of this continue into a story today that has also elements that are laden with sin. And my hope as we walk through this story today that in the darkness of this really section of 2 Samuel, we would actually discover some really wonderful hope.Some really, really wonderful hope. So let me pray for us, and then we're just going to jump straight into the story. Heavenly Father, we thank you that you, in the middle of sin and brokenness, in the middle of darkness, in the middle of all sorts of suffering, because of the effects of sin, you bring wonderful hope. God, I pray that we would be reminded of that today as we walk through a story that continues in this section that is difficult. And we ask that you would open our eyes to what is true, and that we might leave here as not just hearers of the word, but we would also be doers of the word.We ask this in faith, in Jesus' name. Amen. All right, so pick up in verse 1. Now Joab, the son of Zeruiah, knew that the king's heart went out to Absalom. And Joab sent to Tekoa, and brought from there a wise woman, and said to her, Pretend to be a mourner, and put on mourning garments. Do not anoint yourself with oil, but behave like a woman who has been mourning many days for the dead.Go to the king, and speak thus to him. So Joab put words in her mouth. So Joab sees how much this situation with Absalom has affected David, and he wants to do something about it. Joab is the commander of his army. It's David's nephew. He loves David.And he wants to ease his pain, and he figures out a way to do this, that he's going to do pretty much what Nathan the prophet did, which is to come and act out a story. I don't know why David keeps falling for these, but he does. Like he apparently appreciates theatrics, but he just... Joab sees what happened with Nathan the prophet, and says, I'm going to do the same thing. I'm going to find this wise woman. He goes and sends for a woman from Tekoa, which is not far away from Jerusalem.And then basically says, you're going to be someone who's mourning, who is sad. And then he gives her a script that she's going to go act out before the king to illustrate a point. So this is the script. Verse 4. When the woman of Tekoa came to the king, she fell on her face to the ground and paid homage and said, Save me, O king. Which is a dramatic entry into something that actually would have been very normal for their time.The Israelite kings were meant to be Judges for the people. That you could come and bring your dispute to the king, that he would hear it and give a ruling on it. This is a normal practice. And she says, Save me, O king. Verse 5. And the king said to her, What is your trouble?She answered, Alas, I'm a widow. My husband is dead. And your servant had two sons. And they quarreled with one another in the field. There was no one to separate them. And one struck the other and killed him.And now the whole clan has risen against your servant. And they say, Give up the man who struck his brother that we may put him to death for the life of his brother whom he killed. And so they would destroy the air also. Thus they would quench my coal that is left and leave my husband, neither name nor remnant, on the face of the earth. So, that's the script that Joab writes for her. And it is indeed sad.It is a woman who has been widowed. She has two sons. Her sons are in the field. They're fighting, and the other one, one of them kills the other. So it's devastating to lose a son.Now, the remaining son, her clan, is wanting capital punishment. They want him to be put to death. And she's hiding him. And they're demanding this. And she's coming to the king. So that she could be spared more of this grief so that her husband would have a name, have a remnant that's left behind.That's the situation. Then the king said to the woman, Go to your house, and I will give orders concerning you. And the woman of Tekoa said to the king, On me be the guilt, my Lord the king, and on my father's house let the king and his throne be guiltless. The king said, If anyone says anything to you, bring him to me, and he shall never touch you again. Then she said, Please let the king invoke the Lord your God, that the avenger of blood kill no more, and my son be not destroyed.He said, As the Lord lives, not one hair on your son shall fall to the ground. So she gets David. She reels him in. And she gets him to agree to, invoking the name of the Lord, a protection upon this fake son. So he's going to, no one's going to lay a hand on him.So this is David, y'all. David just so clearly can assess the situation that's outside of himself. He just so clearly sees it. He's like, I'm going to intervene. And she's got him. Verse 12.Then the woman said, Please let your servant speak a word to my Lord the king. He said, Speak. And the woman said, Why then have you planned such a thing against the people of God? For in giving this decision, the king convicts himself inasmuch as the king does not bring his banished one home again. And that's the point of Joab's script. To get David to reckon with the fact that Absalom cannot come back to Jerusalem.She got him. Joab wrote this well. She says, You've convicted yourself. It is you who have made sure that Absalom cannot come home. And then she continues. Verse 14.We must all die. We are like water spilled on the ground which cannot be gathered up again. But God will not take away life and he divides his means so that the banished one will not remain an outcast. Now I've come to say this to my Lord the king because the people have made me afraid and your servant thought, I will speak to the king. It may be that the king will perform this, the request of his servant. For the king will hear and deliver his servant from the hand of the man who would destroy me and my son together from the heritage of God.And your servant thought, The word of my Lord the king will set me at rest for my Lord the king is like the angel of God to discern good and evil. The Lord your God be with you. So she basically says, Listen, we're all like water spilled to the ground. We're all going to die one day. And as for this banished one, Absalom, why punish him any longer? But she ties it back to her story, this script, and says, See, you should bring him home.You have the power, David. You can make this right. Bring him home. And after boldly correcting their king, she very wisely begins with some flattery. She says, The king is like the angel of God that has discerned good and evil, which is very wise at this point because you've just put the king on blast. Maybe you should say some kind words about who he is.Verse 18, And the king answered the woman, Do not hide from me anything I ask you. And the woman said, Let my Lord the king speak. The king said, Is the hand of Joab with you in all this? The woman answered and said, As surely as you live, my Lord the king, one cannot turn to the right hand or to the left from anything that my Lord the king has said. It was your servant Joab commanded me. It was he who put all these words in the mouth of your servant.In order to change the course of things, your servant Joab did this. But my Lord has wisdom like the wisdom of the angel of God to know all things that are on the earth. Which is just really laying on thick at the end. Which, again, is very smart at this point. Her fate is in his hands. She says, Yes, you figured it out.Joab is the one who gave me this script. He's the one that put the words in my mouth. In order that you might reckon with the situation with Absalom. So at this point, I just, as I'm reading this, I feel like David going forward should probably ask a few more questions before he just jumps into giving judgments. This is the second time this happened. We don't know if this happens over and over again.But David keeps falling into this. And people keep using these type of situations to illustrate points so that David's eyes can be open to his situation. Now Joab seems to be here, present for all of this. And he turns to him in verse 21. Then the king said to Joab, Behold now I grant this.Go, bring back the young man Absalom. And Joab fell on his face to the ground and paid homage and blessed the king. And Joab said, Today your servant knows that I found favor in your sight, my Lord the king, and that the king has granted the request of his servant. So Joab arose and went to Geshur and brought Absalom to Jerusalem. And the king said, Let him dwell apart in his own house. He is not to come into my presence.So Absalom lived apart in his own house and did not come into the king's presence. So this ruse, it works. Joab sees how much David has been in distress. He illustrates this whole living parable before him. It makes the point. And David says, Okay, bring him home.He can go back to Jerusalem. He can go back to his home. He's not going to come back to my presence. So he goes. He gets him. He brings him back.And what we're going to see is that bringing Absalom back is going to create some real problems for David in this kingdom. So verse 25. Now in all Israel, there was no one such to be praised for his handsome appearance as Absalom. From the sole of his foot to the crown of his head, there was no blemish in him. And when he cut the hair of his head, for at the end of every year, he used to cut it. When it was heavy on him, he cut it.He weighed the hair of his head 200 shekels by the king's weight. They were born to Absalom three sons and one daughter whose name was Tamar. She was a beautiful woman. Which that last part, it's just a beautiful nod to his sister, Tamar, who would not have children after everything that happened to her. And he named a daughter after him. But we get a description of Absalom.Absalom was praised by the nation for being a handsome man with beautiful hair. He is good looking. I mean, he is basically Fabio. Or if that reference is lost on you because it's too old, Gaston. Whatever, whatever you can try to picture, it says there's no, there's no blemish on him. He's beautiful.Beautiful. And his hair is beautiful. His hair is so thick, it's so luscious, that every year when he cuts it, he weighs it, which is weird, but he does. He weighs it and it's 200 shekels by the king's weight. Five pounds is about what that is. So he's a beautiful person, beautiful man.He's handsome. It's not just handsome, he's overwhelmingly handsome. He's the kind of handsome that when you show up in Hollywood with no discernible talent to act, they just hand you a role. And you know it when you see it. He's very handsome, which means, if you understand, take a step back and understand the context of Absalom. This man was born on third base, y'all.He's a prince, which means he has status and he has money and he's famously handsome. So, he's extremely blessed. And the question is, okay, with all of this blessing, what is he going to do with it? And what you see is he chooses evil. And that is where all this story is going. Verse 28.So Absalom lived two full years in Jerusalem without coming into the king's presence. Then Absalom sent for Joab to send him to the king, but Joab would not come to him. And he sent a second time, but Joab would not come. Okay. So Joab, one would think, you know what?You got away with murder. Maybe just live in luxury in your home in Jerusalem. Is that enough? No. He goes to Joab, he sends for Joab and says, I want, I want a present, I want a moment with the king. And Joab ignores him.And then he sends a second time. And he says, I want to be in the king's presence. And Joab ignores all of this. Now, it does not appear from the context here that what Absalom wants is reconciliation with dear old dad. What we're going to see is that all of this is politically motivated. So he sends for Joab, he gets rejected, he gets ignored.And then we're going to see what kind of character is bound up in Absalom. Verse 30, then he said to his servants, see, Joab's field is next to mine and he has barley there. Go and set it on fire. So Absalom's servants set the field on fire. Have you ever been in a situation where like you've you've reached out to your boss and you've asked for a raise but they just put. The meeting off and then you reach out again to ask for a raise and then he just put the meeting off and then you set his desk on fire.That's Absalom. He's the crazy ex who keys the car. I'm going to I'm going to get your attention somehow. Burn his field down. So he does.He has a tantrum. He burns the field. And guess what? When you use emotional sabotage, it sometimes works. And he comes. Verse 31, then Joab arose and went to Absalom at his at his house and said to him, Why have your servants set my field on fire?Absalom answered Joab, Behold, I sent word to you. Come here that I may send you to the king to ask why have I come from Gesher. It would be better for me to still be for it would be better for me to still be to be there still. Now, therefore, let me go into the presence of the king and if there is guilt in me, let him put me to death. So it works.And Joab shows up and he's like, Crazy, what are you doing? What is the point of all of this? And he says, You didn't come. I have a message for the king. It would be better for me not to be in this house. I might as well be in exile in Gesher.But no, I want to be in his presence. And you know what? Send for him. Let me go. Because if he wants to kill me, he can kill me. But I'm getting my audience with the king.So his temper tantrum works. Absalom goes. Verse 33. And Joab went to the king and told him and he summoned Absalom. So he came to the king and bowed himself on his face to the ground before the king and the king.Kissed Absalom. In the end of 14, before you get into 15, kind of feels like the eye of the hurricane. Because there's a moment where the sun is shining and things are, okay,. They've reconciled. He kisses them. He embraces them.That maybe this is the moment where things just get good again. That maybe, like, it's just, they're going to have, you know, moments together out in the field. Hunting and it's going to be wonderful. Maybe, just maybe, things are good but it's, it's the eye of the hurricane. And as the sun passes, the storm quickly approaches. And in verse 1 of chapter 15, we're going to see that what he is shooting for is a play for power.After this, Absalom got himself a chariot and horses and 50 men to run before him. So, pause there. The more you read the Old Testament, the more you'll pick up on some themes. One of those themes is that trusting in chariots and horses is bad. That using chariots and horses to flex your might, your power, and your greatness is a bad idea. This is what Egypt did.This is what the surrounding nations did. It doesn't mean they couldn't ever have chariots. It doesn't mean they couldn't ever have horses. It doesn't mean that those are in and of themselves bad but those are military weapons that the people of God are not meant to trust in because they are meant. To trust in the power of God but you positioning yourself on a chariot for all to see as we're going to see this is all a play. For power and majesty for himself.So, as soon as we read that there's some context there I think the eye has passed and there's trouble abroon. So, he basically outfits himself with a tank, a rocket launcher and a crew of 50 men and then we're going to see. How he positions himself amongst the people. Verse 2 Absalom used to rise early and stand beside the way of the gate and when any man had a dispute to come before the king. For judgment Absalom would call to him and say from what city are you? And when he said your servant is of such and such tribe in Israel Absalom would say to him see.Your claims are good and right but there is no man designated by the king to hear you then Absalom. Would say oh that I were judge in the land that every man with a dispute or cause might come to me. And I would give him justice and whenever a man came near to pay homage to him he would put out. His hand and take hold of him and kiss him thus Absalom did to all Israel who came to the king. For judgment so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel and it's clear at this point that what Absalom. Is doing is he's positioning himself for a place on the throne because the king is the one who makes judgments.Like this this is the king's responsibility and Absalom seems to be getting in the middle of that and he seems to be. Taking what the king does and he says oh where are you from what's your problem oh oh no oh I'll give you justice. Oh I just wouldn't it be great if you had a king that listened to you wouldn't it be great if you had someone who could make. Good judgments for you and you could all receive judgments oh if there was just someone I guess I'll be the one. That does this and you can almost see him in his chariot in his stupid chariot with his wind blowing through his hair. Riding up to the gate posting up the people swarming him and he's just like oh I can help you and the people begin they.Listen this is what the people do they fall for cheap tricks every nation doesn't matter what nation what era what time. People fall for cheap tricks they just do and this is something that is working with every judgment with every hair toss. With every swooning kiss that he gives to the people he starts to capture their hearts and y'all he's lying. I mean you think about this he's lying this is we we just saw that David does give judgments. He met with a woman from Tekoa but Absalom's in the shadows he's he's politically maneuvering. He's out now in front of the people he's doing things that are shady they're falling for fool's gold they're falling.For a man who murdered his brother without one ounce of regret one ounce of repentance. One ounce of sorrow we see none of it they're falling for a man who burns down fields. To get people's attention they're falling for a guy who positions himself on chariots. To show his power they're falling for a guy who this is the really evil part of this. That's lost on us culturally he's dishonoring his father y'all which is a massive sin in the bible. He's dishonoring him not just his father but the anointed king of Israel and if you can remember how in first Samuel.How David the future king of Israel went about treating Saul the present anointed king. Of Israel and all the deference that he gave towards him you can see the difference. That approaches this is wickedness this is evil and he's positioning himself for a shot at the throne with every million. Dollar style with every wink with every nod with every judgment and now the storm is raging and a civil war. Is brewing verse 7 and at the end of four years Absalom said to the king please let me go. And pay my vow which I have vowed to the Lord in Hebron for your servant vowed a vow while I lived.At Geshur in Aram saying if the Lord will indeed bring me back to Jerusalem. Then I will offer worship to the Lord the king said to him go in peace so he arose and went to Hebron. So David led him out of his sight which is not really the main point of the story I get so annoyed. With David sometimes when I'm reading this because I'm just like what are you doing how are you not. Seeing what's happening here how are you not in attention to your kingdom and not seeing what he's doing. But he does that's him out of his sight verse 10 but Absalom sent secret messengers throughout all the tribes of Israel.Saying as soon as you hear the sound of the trumpet then say Absalom is king at Hebron with Absalom went 200 men. From Jerusalem who were invited guests and they went and their innocence and knew nothing and while Absalom was offering. The sacrifices he sent for Ahithophel the Gilanite David's counselor from his city Gilom. And the conspiracy grew strong and the people with Absalom kept increasing so that's where we pause today. Is that what he has done is he's taken he's enacted a plot to take the throne by force from his father and God's anointed king. And he's going to Hebron with some supporters with some bystanders who don't know what's going on and with a plan.And a conspiracy that we're going to see play out so to recap let's think about this story in context. Absalom is born with everything he's born on third base he has good looks he is a prince. He literally gets away with murder he gets away with it and then is restored he's allowed. To be back in Jerusalem where he gets to continue to live in royalty he should just. Be content he should just be satisfied and what does he do with all this blessing it's not enough it's not enough. For him he wants more he wants a throne that is not his to take he starts to dishonor.His father he lies he plots he schemes and he plans to take his throne which by the way. The only way you take the throne from a sitting king is by killing the king so this plan is moving towards. He wants to kill his father and that means what we're seeing is a story that plays out like a tragedy. And built into this tragic story is a self-centered prince who wants to be his own king and we're going to witness. Absalom do some truly evil stuff he has all the blessings and in the end he chooses himself. He chooses self-interest even if it tears the nation apart which it is.And the reality is if we can have enough foresight to take a step back from all of this we are just like Absalom. We are just like Absalom we in this room are born on third base just like Absalom. And you might say oh you don't know I'm ugly and it's like maybe that's subjective. It's not the point not the point of the comparison I'm trying to make we're just like Absalom. And that we have so many blessings that we've been given so many luxuries y'all. We live better than the kings of old the people of royalty from ages.Past we live better than them we have food that we can. Summon we have an abundance of food we have food that goes. Bad we don't know what a famine is like here in our. Nation that even if you're struggling there are places you can go. To get it we have food we have running water. That is clean we have our own chariots that never grow tired.You can get in a car and you can drive people used to have to. Walk for miles and miles and miles or ride a horse for miles. And miles and miles and it would take days and days and you. Could do it in a matter of hours if you go through the list of all the. Things that we have in fact that you have a machine in your. Pocket that is one of the most powerful machines that's ever been made.With that machine you can summon food to be delivered. Groceries to be delivered a car we have blessing upon blessing. Upon blessing the things that we think are just common needs. It's like no it's comparatively we are blessed. In more ways than we could possibly and on top of. The material blessings of this present world in this place.In this area the Columbia area we have access to spiritual. Blessings that are wonderful y'all I can take a rock. And throw it and get close I can throw it a couple. Times and get close to a church down the street where they're. Preaching the gospel right now where Chet Andrews at State Street is preaching. And that's keep driving and you're going to see on a hall.Avenue where Dow is preaching it's like. We have people that are preaching the gospel in this city you have. Access to Christian community in this city you have community. Groups and small groups and maybe we are blessed beyond. We have access to the word of God that you can read it in front. Of you right now you can pull it up on your phone you probably.Have maybe some of you have it in your car you have. It at your house we have every spiritual blessing some of. Us who belong to Jesus Christ who are Christians we have. Access to our creator y'all that he has we can. Pray to him and he listens that we have no middle. Man other than Jesus Christ it's wonderful access.To our triune God we're not born on third base. We're born rounding third base on our way. To home we are so wonderfully blessed and like Absalom. It's not enough we want more money we want more power we want. More success we want more praise we want more and better friends. We want better looks we want a better life it's never.Enough it's never enough we want more and then we'll do. Actions that are similar to Absalom many of us know how to politically. Maneuver you know how to at the workplace position yourself to compete for a job. Like it's a throne that you're fighting for your life for you know how. To position yourself ahead of another co-worker you know how to make. Business deals work the way that you come out on top we know how to.Play the game at the workplace we know how to play the. Game in our social spheres some of us know how to maneuver. And put ourselves and say I really want to be closer with this person. But I need to get in between this person and this person I need. To make this friendship work better and it's like all. That political maneuvering reveals the same heart it's not enough it's never.Enough and we'll do some of the same things behind the scenes. To get what we want for our own good we'll. Act just like Absalom we can be erratic we can throw temper. Tantrums we can act like petulant children we know how to. Yell in an argument to get what we want some of. Us know how to break things to get what we want.And you might say I would never I am cool calm. And collected I would never yell to get what I want. But you might know how to give a cold shoulder you might. Know how to be passive aggressive we know how to. Do this we know how to act in order to get what we. Want for our own interest we do things just like.Absalom we fortify our lives just like he did with he did. It with a horse and a chariot and a squad of 50 people because he. Wanted to trust in his own strength as opposed to in all. Of this trusting and the strength of God as opposed to trusting. That what God wants and what God desires for this kingdom is what. Is good he doesn't it's not enough but he trusts in his own self.And we do the same thing we'll find ways to trust in our own. Selves we'll do it through a savings account we'll do it through. Work ethic and working endless hours one of the ways that shows. Up in my life is just prayerlessness this idea that I can work. And work and strive and do and do and do and do and do. And not run to the Lord and I've just seen over and over again.That the prayerlessness in my own life is symptomatic of a greater problem. That I trust in my own strength and not the Lord but we. Have the same streak that runs through Absalom that's in us this self. Centeredness and wanting more and not being content content we're just. Like Absalom and yet in so many ways we're blind to it we can't. See it so if that is reality and I'd argue that for the majority of us if not all of us.In some form or fashion it is then where's the hope if that's the problem then what's the. Remedy like what what do we actually how do we not live. Like this Absalom type lives I want us to go to Philippians chapter. 2 It's on page 1135 1135 in the black bibles because. Bound up in this wicked story that we've read that we're going to. Continue to see play out and that's the backdrop of the darkness of our own lives.And the ways that it aligns with this story is some incredible hope. This is Paul writing to the church to Philippi addressing this directly. He says in verse 3 chapter 2 do nothing from selfish. Ambition or conceit but in humility count others more significant than. Yourselves which I read that and the times where I have the clarity. To see that Absalom prideful self-interested streak in me.I'm like okay I'm in you've got me do nothing. From selfish ambition or conceit but in humility count others more significant. Than yourselves I'm in how I want that then verse 4. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also. To the interest of others that's like okay again you've. Got me I'm in I don't want to look to my own interest.Only I want to be a man that lives for the interest. Of others I'm in but how do I get there verse 5 have this. Mind among yourselves which is yours in Christ Jesus who though. He was in the form of God did not count equality. With God a thing to be grasped but emptied himself by taking. The form of a servant being born in the likeness of men and being found.In human form he humbled himself by being obedient to the. Point of death even death on a cross and the. Remedy for self centered souls and the way to fix. Our prideful beset sin in our lives is through. Jesus Christ it is by trusting and a God who left. The glory of heaven to take on human flesh and dwell among us.Who subjected himself to be murdered by his own creation for our own interest. That we might not be sprinting into an eternity of destruction. Under the wrath of God forever but he might bring us from. Darkness into a kingdom of light by choosing to surrender in the same. Way that Stephen declared in the baptism waters today. That the only hope we have for the self centered and self.Interested soul is through the work of Jesus Christ entrusting. In him and not ourselves and then every day in following Christ. Day by day we continue to come back to the hope of the. Gospel of a God who loved us so much that he. Gave himself for us that he might mold us. And conform us into his image into being people that are.Not so interested in our own lives but live for the. Sake of others hope is Jesus Christ that's the only. Means that we get there it is through faith and daily. Repentance of dying to our own selves and doing it every. Single day as we grow to be more like Christ. So when we read stories like this it's a warning and what.We're going to see is absolutely just absolutely wrecked his own. Life and so many people the pain and the. Fallout of his sin is massive and it's a warning. Of what it means when we trust in ourselves and we care about. Our own lives and thank you God that he's given us stories like. This to remind us not only the seriousness of sin but the wonderful.Gift of a savior and as we get ready to sing one final song in worship. My hope is that we would begin to reckon with our own sin and then. Run to Jesus Christ asking him to both reveal our self-interest to feel our. Pride reveal all the self-centeredness within us but also celebrate that he. Came and that he died and that he gave his life so that I. Wouldn't be a slave to myself and worshiping my own self but I might live.To worship in Christ and the fruit of that would show up in so many other. Ways so we'll get the opportunity to do that in worship here in a moment. We'll have the opportunity in groups to do that this week as we get to live. This out and this is a care week where we get to maybe confess. Our own sin and our own self-interest and we pray that. God would stir that work in us and then we'll worship and sing heavenly father I pray.That you might open our eyes to the reality of our own. Absalom like sin within God I just I so. Need you I so feel it myself this concern for self. This lack of contentment that it's never enough and I think there's others like. Me here that need you that desperately need you to go to. Work and may we trust in you and you alone and not.Ourselves and may you regularly graciously confront our sin and remind. Us beautifully of our savior you and may that change. The way we live our lives in Jesus name amen the band's. Going to come up we're going to sing this final song together and as we. Sing and celebrate and make much of Jesus Christ for what he has done for us. My hope is that this wouldn't just be things that we hear but we.Would actually begin to put into practice in our lives and as we leave here. Begin to take practical steps in running towards Jesus and watching him change. Us to be a people that live not to ourselves but for the sake of others.

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 NDS CHRONICLES IS BACK  David Lee Corbo (The Raven) and Top Lobsta go full send on the latest listener-submitted paranormal testimonies while roasting everything in sight.In this episode:• The guys tear into a cringey “HotMomFits” / Queen of Controversy TikTok-style Nephilim explanation from the Trinity of Truth / White Rabbit show — “Oh my God they were eating the people!”• Full Orthodox Church takedown: intercession prayers, icons, $250+ baptisms, “gay clown church,” Jay Dyer aura, and why it's all a waste of time.• Lauren Owly's insane “Horse Chronicles” testimony: multiple DC missions with her uncle blowing the shofar at the White House & monuments, J6 principalities, demon winds, water moccasin snake attacks, dog resurrection warning, rainbow worm orb, and her Southern Sunshine Beagles rescue.• Max's wild Salvia trip: astro-projection through infinite timelines and a glowing gold Queen of Heaven woman who tells him “you have to go back.”• BroGrove / Bohemian Grove ticket updates, Patreon plug, NDS video game demo (Mega Man X style with lobster powers), and Nancy producer chaos.Raw, unfiltered, zero gatekeeping Christian conspiracy commentary for the end times.Submit your own paranormal testimony: chroniclesnds@gmail.com  Support the show & get early/ad-free episodes + private communities: patreon.com/NephilimDeathSquad  BroGrove / Bohemian Grove tickets & merch: toplobsta.com Show / Hosts Socials:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NephilimDeathSquad  X: https://twitter.com/NephilimDSquad  Instagram: https://instagram.com/nephilimdeathsquad  Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/NephilimDeathSquad  Merch & BroGrove Tickets: https://toplobsta.com  Raven (David Lee Corbo): https://twitter.com/DavidLCorbo  Top Lobsta: https://twitter.com/TopLobstaLauren Owly / Southern Sunshine Beagles:  Website / Adopt: southernsunshinebeagles.com00:00 – Intro, Patreon, BroGrove / Bohemian Grove Ticket Updates & Nancy Chaos06:30 – Cringey Nephilim Girl on Trinity of Truth Roast (“Oh my God they were eating the people!”)18:45 – Orthodox Church Full Takedown: Icons, Saints, $250 Baptisms & “Gay Clown Church”35:20 – Lauren Owly Horse Chronicles Testimony Begins (Shofar DC Missions)55:10 – J6 Principalities, Demon Winds & Water Moccasin Snake Attacks1:10:40 – Rainbow Worm Orbs, Dog Resurrection & Southern Sunshine Beagles Rescue1:25:00 – Max's Wild Salvia Trip: Queen of Heaven Gold Woman & Infinite Timelines1:35:00 – NDS Video Game Demo (Mega Man X style) & Final Thoughts  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nephilim-death-squad--6389018/support.☠️ Nephilim Death Squad — New episodes 5x/week.Join our Patreon for early access, bonus shows & the private Telegram hive.Subscribe on YouTube & Rumble, follow @NephilimDSquad on X/Instagram, grab merch at toplobsta.com. Questions/bookings: chroniclesnds@gmail.com — Stay dangerous.

Support the showThank you for listening to this podcast! Follow Pastor James D. Gailliard on all social media @jdgailliard and get connected with Word Tabernacle Church by going to https://wordtab.net/ #EveryoneThriving 

RECALIBRATED self-control 5/10/26Today, we celebrate BAPTISMS as we continue a series based out of 2 Peter.Support the show

Deacon Al Lundy reflects on family news, backyard wildlife, and upcoming travels, then goes through the Sixth Sunday of Easter readings—highlighting Philip the deacon, the role of confirmation, and how the Holy Spirit and living out Christ's commandments make faith visible in everyday life. Email your questions to Deacon AL:    goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Podcast Hosts:Grant Broggi: Marine Veteran, Owner of The Strength Co. and Starting Strength Coach.Jeff Buege: Marine Veteran, Outdoorsman, Football Fan and LifterTres Gottlich: Marine Veteran, Texan, Fisherman, Crazy College Football Fan and LifterJoin the Slack and Use code OKAY:⁠https://buy.stripe.com/dR6dT4aDcfuBdyw5ks⁠Check out BW Tax: ⁠https://www.bwtaxllc.com⁠BUY A FOOTBALL HELMET:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thestrength.co/mrhelmet/?utm_source=The+Okay+Podcast&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=Okay_Pod⁠In Episode 108 of The Okay Podcast, Grant, Jeff, and Tre dive into everything from the most painfully accurate military staff brief ever conducted to garage gym dad life, NHL playoff heartbreak, reserve bureaucracy disasters, and the chaos of balancing lifting with family life. The boys break down the 50 Cal Challenge leaderboard, rant about CAC card nightmares and spam calls, revisit No Country For Old Men, and talk through why consistency matters more than perfect programming when it comes to training as a busy dad. Equal parts military humor, strength culture, and smoke-pit-style conversation, this episode is pure Okay Podcast chaos from start to finish.Timestamps:00:00 - Intro04:38 - Greatest Staff Brief of All Time16:19 - Outlying Stations20:12 - Sports Talk33:09 - Tre's Lifting Update, Dad Training Schedule42:22 - 50 Cal Challenge48:55 - Strength Co. Baptisms51:08 - ID Madness58:15 - No Country For Old Men01:02:07 - Spam Calls01:04:44 - Training When Sick, Grant Changes His Mind01:15:15 - Saved Rounds

After a trip to Georgia that included a surprise goose chase with a long-lost cousin, Jase gets an idea of why millions of Christians think faith is about being a rule follower. The guys wrestle with the difference between guilt and shame, why a rule-based mindset falls short, and how culture often avoids truth instead of dealing with it. They highlight a powerful moment from a live event that reminds us that real change is about relationship, not just behavior. In this episode: Romans 3, verse 23; Galatians 5, verse 19; 1 John 5, verses 13–21; 1 John 1, verses 3–8; Luke 15; 1 John 3; 1 John 2; Philippians 2; Romans 5–8 “Unashamed” Episode 1326 is sponsored by: https://fastgrowingtrees.com — Get 20% your first purchase when using the code UNASHAMED at checkout. https://ruffgreens.com — Get a FREE Jumpstart Trial Bag for your dog today when you use promo code Unashamed! Exclusive $25-off Carver Mat at https://on.auraframes.com/UNASHAMED. Promo Code UNASHAMED http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ — Sign up now for free, and join the Unashamed hosts every Friday for Unashamed Academy Powered by Hillsdale College Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://open.spotify.com/show/3LY8eJ4ZBZHmsImGoDNK2l Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters 00:00 Jase & Al Return from the Road 06:30 Jase Meets His Georgia Cousin 12:00 Baptisms & a Powerful Event Moment 16:00 The “Sin That Leads to Death” Revisited 24:30 What Sin Really Means: Missing the Mark 33:30 Guilt vs. Shame: Two Ways to View Sin 42:00 Why Believers Still Struggle with Sin 48:30 Jase's Take on the Sin That Leads to Death — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Help Persecuted Christians TODAY: https://csi-usa.org/quickstart/ Christian Solidarity International On today's Quick Start podcast: NEWS: Iran ceasefire teeters as attacks in the Strait of Hormuz spark U.S. retaliation, raising fears of wider conflict and $5 gas FOCUS STORY: Massive beach baptisms in California signal a potential new spiritual awakening as thousands publicly declare faith MAIN THING: The “Animal Farm” debate heats up as critics question Angel Studios' adaptation and its departure from Orwell's original message LAST THING: 1 Peter 3:12 — A reminder that God hears the prayers of the righteous SHOW LINKS Radical Revelations with Raj Nair https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radical-revelations/id1888511250 Faith in Culture: https://cbn.com/news/faith-culture Heaven Meets Earth PODCAST: https://cbn.com/lp/heaven-meets-earth NEWSMAKERS POD: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/newsmakers/id1724061454

If you want to give through Grace Church you can do so here: https://pushpay.com/g/grace-alone?src=hpp&r=monthlyConnected: Where Life and Relationships Begin is a 7-week journey designed to help you experience the life God created you for—rooted in Him and lived out in authentic relationships. This series will challenge and encourage you to stay connected daily and live with purpose. Be part of our baptism service the first week as we celebrate powerful stories of life change.Find out more about Grace Church here: https://gracechurchco.com0:00 Beginning of Message29:50 5pm Baptisms54:50 9am Baptisms1:13:22 11am Baptisms

The Sister Missionary FLOOD is HERE! Ward Radio Reacts to the Explosion of Sisters Serving throughout the world!Ward Radio dives into the massive surge of sister missionaries hitting the mission field right now — the “Sister Missionary FLOOD”! Cardon, Kwaku, and the crew sit down with Lucille Miles (heading to the Colorado Denver North Mission) and her big sister Maddie (returned missionary who served at the Palmyra and Iowa City historic sites). They talk mission prep, Book of Mormon goals, temple habits, what it's really like serving at Church history sites, and why so many more young women are choosing to serve. Expect laughs, real talk about parental pressure (or lack thereof), influencer tips, and powerful stories about how the Lord is preparing an army of sisters for this moment in Church history. If you have a daughter, sister, or friend heading out (or thinking about it), this episode is pure gold. #SisterMissionary #LDS #Mormon #MissionPrep #WardRadio #LatterDaySaints #BookOfMormon #ChurchHistory #MissionaryWork #BYU YouTube Chapters (Timestamps – add these directly to your video description):0:00 – The Sister Missionary FLOOD Has Begun!1:10 – Meet Lucille & Maddie Miles: Future & Returned Sister Missionaries2:45 – Lucille's Mission Call to Colorado Denver North4:20 – Why So Many Sisters Are Serving Right Now (The Real Reasons)6:05 – Book of Mormon Goals Before the Mission7:40 – Mission Prep Tips That Actually Worked (and the Ones That Didn't)9:15 – Serving at Church History Sites: Palmyra, Nauvoo & More11:00 – Tourists, Baptisms & Teaching Non-Members at Sacred Places12:35 – Parents: How to Prepare Your Daughter Without the Pressure14:10 – Temple Habits, Influencers & Final Mission Advice15:50 – Closing Thoughts & Why This Flood Matters Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnmsAFGrFuGe0obW6tkEY6w/joinAmazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1AQLMTSMBM4DC?ref_=wl_shareVisit us for this and more at: WardRadio.comTo subscribe to "The Women of Ward Radio" Youtube Channel, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbu-wpRztV-8TYXClhUZhhwTo Subscribe to Cardon Ellis' Adventure Channel, please visit: http://www.youtube.com/@CardonEllisAdventuresThe following authors and/or sponsors are generously offering discounts on their gospel-related publication to Ward Radio listeners.⚡For free trial of Scripture Notes please visit the following link!: https://scripturenotes.com/?via=wardradio⚡For a discount on Tiny 3D Temples, Save 15% with code WARDRADIO at checkout or visit tiny3dtemples.com/wardradio⚡Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids book visit the following linkhttps://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids . Use the code "Ward Radio" for 10% off. ⚡To Order Jonah's Book, “Lost Gems of Genesis” visit the following link and use coupon Code: WARDRADIO https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/coming-soon-the-lost-gems-of-genesis-how-apocryphal-texts-prove-joseph-smith-fixed-the-bibleFor 10% off Plain and Precious Publishing Books, visit plainandpreciouspublishing.com and use Coupon Code: WARDRADIOFor a 5% discount on Go and Do Travel, visit goanddotravel.com and use the promo code WARDRADIO5#christian #mormon #exmormon #latter-daysaints #latterdaysaints #latterdays #bible #bookofmormon #archaeology #BYU #midnightmormons #jesus #jesuschrist #scriptures #sundayschool #biblestudy #christiancomedy #cardonellis #kwakuel #bradwitbeckTo support the channel:Venmo @WardRadio or visit: https://account.venmo.com/u/MidnightMormonsPaypal: paypal.me/@midnightmedia CashApp: $WardRadioFollow us at:Instagram: @cardonellis @kwakuel @braderico @boho.birdyFacebook: @WardRadioWorldwideTwitter: WardRadioShowTikTok: WardRadioWorldwide

Have you been concerned about the disunity in our government today? If so, this episode will take you back to a moment in American history when things looked just as divided—and just as uncertain.In 1787, the Constitutional Convention was on the verge of collapse. The states were fractured, tensions were high, and the future of the nation hung in the balance. Then, an unexpected voice rose—Benjamin Franklin, who reminded the delegates of something they had neglected: prayer.What followed shifted the atmosphere and helped change the course of history.Listen as America Pray Now partner, Lise Pampaloni, shares this powerful and often overlooked moment—and why its message still matters for our nation today.-------America Pray Now publishes a magazine on prayer that is free of charge and can be delivered directly to your home. You can sign up for this magazine on our website at americapraynow.comIn addition to our weekly podcast, we meet in 17 different cities every month to pray in person. Most of our in-person prayer meetings are in Virginia, and we also have meetings in Maryland, West Virginia, Delaware, North Carolina and South Carolina. See our website for times and dates at americapraynow.comEnjoy the Podcast? Let us know! Email us at podcast@americapraynow.com-----------SUMMARYThere are moments in the life of a nation when the ground beneath it shifts and the outcome cannot be predicted. The summer of 1787 was one of those moments. The men gathered in Philadelphia to address the failures of the Articles of Confederation arrived with intelligence, ambition, and competing interests, and by June they were deadlocked. The young United States, still fragile after the Revolution, was operating under a system of government that could not tax, could not settle trade disputes between states, and could not hold the Union together by its own weight. The fear among many was real: without a fundamental change, the republic would not survive.Into that crisis came a gathering of some of the most consequential figures in American history. George Washington, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and dozens of other delegates arrived in Philadelphia with the intention of revising what existed. They quickly understood that revision was not enough. What was needed was something entirely new. But the task of designing a government that could satisfy large states and small states, commercial interests and agrarian ones, proved far more difficult than many had anticipated. By the middle of the summer, the convention had stalled. Delegates were threatening to walk out. The effort appeared to be collapsing under the weight of its own divisions.It was at that moment that Benjamin Franklin, eighty-one years old and the most senior figure in the room, rose to speak. He did not do so often. But when he did, the room listened. What Franklin offered that day was not a new political proposal or a revised framework for representation. He offered something far more disarming: humility. He reminded the delegates that in the earliest and most dangerous days of the Revolution, they had prayed. They had asked God for help when the odds were against them. And they had seen that help come. Now, in a room full of educated and accomplished men, they had stopped asking. Franklin stated plainly that he had lived long enough to accumulate one conviction above almost all others: God governs in the affairs of men. He pressed the point with an illustration drawn from Scripture, asking whether an empire could rise without divine aid if even a sparrow does not fall outside of God's notice. His conclusion was direct. The delegates were, in his words, groping in the dark, because they had neglected to seek the light of heaven.Franklin moved that the convention begin each session with prayer. What followed is one of the more honest and instructive footnotes of American history. According to James Madison's own records, the motion was never formally adopted. Practical objections were raised: there was no money to pay a clergyman, and some delegates were reluctant to introduce formal religious observance into the proceedings. The motion did not pass. It was not even voted on.And yet something changed. Historians who have examined this period consistently note that the atmosphere of the convention shifted in the days following Franklin's speech. The tone softened. The stalemate began to break. Within weeks, the delegates found their way to what became known as the Great Compromise, the agreement that established a two-house legislature with proportional representation in the House and equal representation in the Senate. It resolved the central conflict that had paralyzed the convention. Four months after the proceedings began, the United States Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787, and a document was produced that has now endured for nearly two and a half centuries.The founding generation held a wide range of theological views, but many shared a common framework: the belief in Providence, the conviction that God superintends human history. Franklin, whatever his personal theology, spoke the language of that conviction. His argument was not merely religious sentiment. It was a practical observation drawn from experience: that human wisdom, however considerable, is not sufficient for the work of building a nation. This is the same truth recorded in Psalm 127, which states that unless the Lord builds the house, the labor of those who build it is in vain. It is echoed in the biblical invitation to ask God for wisdom and to trust him rather than leaning entirely on human understanding.The weight of this history does not stay in the eighteenth century. The episode connects the story of 1787 directly to the present condition of the United States, which faces divisions that carry a recognizable echo. The political and cultural fractures of today are not identical to those of the Constitutional Convention, but the underlying dynamic is familiar: a nation straining under the pressure of its own disagreements, searching for a way forward that human strategy alone cannot fully provide.Against that backdrop, something is already happening. In South Carolina, a statewide evangelistic gathering called the Charleston Crusade is bringing together churches and believers from more than twenty-five cities. In an unusual step, the state legislature formally recognized the event and issued an invitation for citizens to voluntarily rededicate themselves to God through prayer and moral renewal. This is not a government mandate. It is an invitation. And people are responding. Repentance is occurring. Baptisms are taking place. Communities are humbling themselves together.The parallel is intentional and sober. What Benjamin Franklin called the convention toward in 1787 is what this moment calls the American church toward now. Not the anger of political combat, but the posture of prayer. Not confidence in human frameworks, but dependence on the God who, as Franklin put it, governs in the affairs of men. The same God who brought fractured and divided men in Philadelphia to a place of unity sufficient to produce the Constitution is described here as still present, still listening, and still able to move across a nation willing to ask.What is built to last has never been built by human effort alone. That was true in 1787. It remains true today.

April 12th, 2026

Join us this week at our 8:15am gathering as we celebrate powerful baptism stories of lives transformed from death to life and hear from our Senior Pastor, Miles Fidell, as he teaches from John 15 on the fruit we are called to bear and what it means to truly abide in Him.

Join us this week at our 10:45am gathering as we celebrate powerful baptism stories of lives transformed from death to life and hear from our Senior Pastor, Miles Fidell, as he teaches from John 15 on the fruit we are called to bear and what it means to truly abide in Him.

This excerpt was taken from our LIVE services on Sunday mornings at Belmont Assembly of God - Chicago. Thanks for tuning in! If you're new to Belmont Assembly, check out the links below! www.belmontag.org/connect www.belmontag.org/donate Check out our Compass Kids online!  www.compasskids.us #belmontag #bagcompasskids #findingdirection

A Renewed Mind, A Changed Life; Ephesians 4:17-24 Believer's Baptism Sunday, Celebrated 11 Baptisms! Ephesians: In Christ Who you are changes how you live, and how you stand. live streamed on April 12, 2026

Acts 1: 4-5

Text: Philippians 1:12-14 (ESV) 12 I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, 13 so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. 14 And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

Did Early Temple Sealings Guarantee Heaven? Dr. Jonathan Stapley, an award-winning historian—and surprisingly, a PhD in carbohydrate chemistry  discusses his Mormon History Association Best Book Award-winner, “The Power of Godliness: Mormon Liturgy and Cosmology.” This is a fascinating deep dive into how early Latter-day Saints understood priesthood, the lost history of female ritual healing, and how the church’s ordinances have evolved over time. https://youtu.be/_tNWj8gupM0 0:00 Cosmological Priesthood 17:29 Mormon Women healing 31:36 Mormon Priestess 44:24 Dallin Oak: Women Have Priesthood! 53:21 Alternative Medicine 1:01:52 Baby Blessings 1:13:21 Temple Sealings 1:22:15 Armininianism vs Calvinism: Are Mormons Saved? Don't miss our other discussions with Jonathan. https://gospeltangents.com/people/jonathan_stapley Copyright © 2026 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Uncovering the Lost History of Mormon Liturgy: A Deep Dive into The Power of Godliness If you have ever been curious about the evolution of Mormon rituals, Dr. Jonathan Stapley offers a fascinating look into the archives. Stapley, a scientist by trade and a historian by passion, discusses his 2018 award-winning book, The Power of Godliness: A Mormon Liturgy and Cosmology. While Latter-day Saints rarely use the term “liturgy,” Stapley argues it is a tremendously powerful concept for framing the worship, rituals, and ordinances that construct the Mormon universe. Redefining the Priesthood: Ecclesiastical vs. Cosmological To make sense of historical shifts, Stapley introduces a vital framework that splits early Mormon priesthood into two distinct categories: Ecclesiastical Priesthood: This represents the offices of the church (deacons, teachers, priests, elders, bishops, etc.). Cosmological Priesthood: Developed in the Nauvoo Temple, this encompasses the “heaven on earth” structure where men and women act as kings, queens, priests, and priestesses. While early church members viewed these liturgical structures as ways to channel the power of God, by the 20th century, standard church catechisms shifted to simply defining the priesthood as the literal power of God. Forgotten Era of Female Ritual Healing One of the most inspiring (and historically misunderstood) topics in the book is female ritual healing. In the 1800s, women were recognized healers who routinely performed anointings and blessed the sick. Joseph Smith explicitly stated this was entirely appropriate and a manifestation of God’s power. Stapley warns against the trap of “presentism”—the mistake of looking at history through the lens of modern definitions. Today, healing is classified as a priesthood ordinance, leading some to falsely assume that early women held ecclesiastical priesthood offices. Interestingly, the modern narrative shifted in a subtle but revolutionary 2014 General Conference sermon by Elder Dallin H. Oaks. Elder Oaks redefined the conversation by stating that because there is only one power of God, women who participate in the work of the church are wielding the authority of the priesthood in their callings, a massive linguistic and theological shift from previous decades. Lost Temple Rituals: Baptisms for Health and Temple Healers Modern LDS temple practices are highly streamlined, but they used to be vastly more diverse. Joseph Smith originally envisioned the temple as a place for literal physical healing. Baptisms for Health: By the 1880s, baptisms for health were the single most common living ritual performed in temples. If you were feeling sick, you could make a pilgrimage to the temple to be baptized for your health. Temple Healers: Pioneer temples featured dedicated temple healers. For example, Lucy Bigelow Young (one of Brigham Young’s wives) received the sick—sometimes brought in on beds—and healed them inside the St. George Temple. These practices were ultimately discontinued in the 1920s under President Heber J. Grant, who reformed and shortened the liturgy to focus exclusively on salvific rituals. From “Cunning Folk” to Alternative Medicine Addressing the controversial topic of early Mormon “magic,” Stapley prefers the historical European term “cunning folk traditions.“ Cunning folk were local seers who found lost items, healed the sick, and battled witches. As belief in witches faded during the Enlightenment, cunning folk transitioned into botanical and herbal healers. Because Mormonism embraces an “open heaven” and the miraculous, early Saints were receptive to both priesthood blessings and these alternative cures. Stapley notes that this cultural DNA persists today; the modern LDS openness to complementary and alternative medicine (like energy healing or essential oils) functions similarly to the cunning folk traditions of the past. Evolution of Baby Blessings Unlike baptism, the baby blessing is not found in the Book of Mormon. In the early church, blessings often occurred on the 8th day after birth, evocative of the Old Testament tradition of circumcision. In early Mormon Missouri (Zion), the blessing was deeply communal: babies received the blessing so their names could be inscribed in the “book of remembrance” to secure a community inheritance. By the 20th century, the ritual’s focus became intensely entangled with fatherhood. In an effort to make fathers feel the power of their duty, modern church policy even evolved to allow fathers without temple recommends to stand in the blessing circle, hoping the experience might quicken them to repentance. Sealings Guarantee Heaven? Debate on “Perseverance” How permanent is a temple sealing? In early Mormonism, theology leaned heavily into “perseverance,” a concept akin to Calvinism, suggesting that once a family is sealed, they are permanently locked into the “network of heaven”. Early Saints believed that even if a child or spouse backslid into sin, their place in heaven remained, though they might have to suffer for their sins before being redeemed. However, faced with the reality of profound human wickedness (such as the actions of John D. Lee, Brigham Young’s adopted son who participated in a mass murder), church leaders realized a free pass to heaven couldn’t exist. Today, LDS teachings lean far closer to Arminianism and Protestant ideals, viewing the celestial kingdom as a conditional reward based on individual faithfulness rather than an unbreakable guarantee. Dr. Stapley’s framework ultimately allows believers and historians alike to explore Mormonism’s rich, dynamic past on its own terms, free from the constraints of present-day politics. Don't miss our other discussions with Jonathan. https://gospeltangents.com/people/jonathan_stapley Copyright © 2026 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved

There are many ways in which the Church is holy. The main source of its holiness is Jesus Christ, who is the head of the Church. He unites us to himself, through his Church, through our Baptisms, and through the Holy Eucharist. Join Fr. James Brent, O.P., as he leads us through a tour of the Church's holiness in Episode 51 of Contemplata.Follow us on:Instagram: ​​​​@contemplatapodcastYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/DominicanFriarsMediaSupport: If you want to support this podcast, please visit dominicanfriars.org/contemplata

Easter was chilly, damp, overcast, but satisfying. Over the course of the weekend we got to see a few interesting developments though: First, The Boston Red Sox were trying to get fans hyped up for an April 3rd Opening Day at Fenway Park, and in doing so they tweeted out archival footage from Opening Day in Boston back in the 1950's....within an hour the comments were turned off because all people could comment on was how heavenly a life before the multicultural demolition kicked into high gear. Leftists decried how "white" everything was, and normal people lamented how orderly and serene everything seemed. Anyway, we'll read through some of the comments that were preserved and discuss what these innocuous glimpsed into the past actually DO reveal about the present. We also so a record increase in Baptisms on Easter, especially within the Catholic Church. Is it ever really too little too late for a renaissance? Unleash Your Brain w/ Keto Brainz Nootropic 15% OFF w/ code MARCH: https://tinyurl.com/2cess6y7 Every purchase enters you into a MASSIVE Product RAFFLE! E-Mail me for FREE SAMPLES of KB or SALTE Hydration Packets! Sponsor Monthly for VIP Perks: https://www.quitefrankly.tv/sponsor One-Time Tip: http://www.paypal.me/QuiteFranklyLive Quite Frankly Amazon Storefront: https://amazon.com/shop/quitefranklyofficial Official Coffee & Mugs: https://www.coffeerevolution.shop/category/quite-frankly Official QF MERCH: https://tinyurl.com/f3kbkr4s Gold & Silver: https://quitefrankly.gold Send Holiday cards, Letters, and other small gifts, to the Quite Frankly P.O. Box! Quite Frankly 222 Purchase Street, #105 Rye, NY, 10580 Tip in Crypto: BTC: bc1q97w5aazjf7pjjl50n42kdmj9pqyn5zndwh3lng XRP: rnES2vQV6d2jLpavzf7y97XD4AfK1MjePu Quite Frankly Socials: Twitter/X: @QuiteFranklyTV Instagram: @QuiteFranklyOfficial Discord Chat: https://discord.gg/xPu7YEXXRY Official Forum: https://tinyurl.com/k89p88s8 Telegram: https://t.me/quitefranklytv Streaming Live On: QuiteFrankly.tv (Powered by Foxhole) Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/yc2cn395 Rumble: https://tinyurl.com/yeytwwyz Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/quitefranklylive Audio On Demand: Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yk4yfdsa iTunes: http://apple.co/2dMURMq

On Hour 3 of the Patrick Madrid, Patrick answers questions from callers about the Catholic faith. Stephanie was part of the Holiness Church but wants to become Catholic and is interested to know if the Church will accept her Baptisms? Patrick explores the beliefs of the Holiness Church. Linda - I had a conversation with my friend about how Jews can vote democrat. My friend thinks that maybe they are not really Jewish? Is it the same of Christians not going to Mass on Sunday? What is your take? Stephanie - If I were to become Catholic, how would they take my baptism? I was baptized in the 'Holiness' church. Break 1 Eduardo - Can you recommend any resources for Bible study? Patrick shares how a survey from Pew Research on how a third of Gen Z thinks being extremely rich is morally wrong. Break 2 Howard - Wealth and riches. I think Christ was saying, if you spend your whole life in pursuit of money, don't say in the last moment that you believe in God just because you are dying.

Tonight's episode dives into the LDS Church's announcing Record Convert Baptisms. We look at those newly released membership numbers and the LDS Church celebrating massive growth, with nearly 400,000 converts baptized in 2025 alone. But when you look just a little deeper, the data raises questions and points to uncomfortable analytics. We break it all… Read More »Convert Mormon Baptisms Break Records ! The post Convert Mormon Baptisms Break Records ! appeared first on Mormon Discussions Podcasts - Full Lineup.

 God Is Moving in Barbados: Baptisms, Breakthroughs, and Bold Faith with Dwayne Blai What happens when a church begins to pray boldly—and God starts answering in real time? In this powerful missionary update, Dwayne Blai shares what God is doing right now in Bridgetown, Barbados—and it's nothing short of remarkable. From unexpected financial provision across the globe… to multiple baptisms led by rising disciples… to answered prayers for leadership, growth, and even healing in his own family—this is a story of momentum, faith, and God "showing off." The church isn't just growing—it's coming alive.  What God Is Doing Right Now  Unexpected Provision A disciple in Australia gave $3,000 USD to support international missions—fueling the training of two campus ministry leaders. Even more support has been pledged, opening the door for extended training and future leaders.  The mission is gaining real traction.  5 Baptisms in One Month Five people were baptized this month—four in just one week. Even more powerful? Dwayne and Tsega didn't lead most of the studies.  Disciples are stepping up.  The church is multiplying itself.  A Future Leader Emerges After persistent prayer for a strong female campus leader, God answered. A young woman made the courageous decision to follow Christ—despite opposition from her entire family. She is: Brave Humble Outward-focused Hungry to grow And she's already being personally discipled by Tsega.  Leadership is being raised from within.  Young Professionals Are Coming The church has been praying for committed young professionals—men with stability, transportation, and a heart to give. Now? There are more men to study with than time allows.  A new wave is forming.  Explosive Demographic Growth One long-term goal:  20% of the church under age 40 by 2028 Current reality?  Almost 25% already.  The future is arriving faster than expected.  A Personal Miracle Dwayne's youngest son had been suffering from severe migraines—so intense he couldn't function normally. After a large group prayed… Within days, everything changed.  He's now waking up, going to school, and living normally again. No explanation. Just God.  Key Takeaway When a church prays boldly, steps out in faith, and invests in people… God moves. God provides. God transforms. And sometimes—He does it faster than you ever imagined.  About the Mission Dwayne and Tsega Blai are leading a growing, revitalized church in Bridgetown, Barbados—raising up disciples, leaders, and a new generation of believers in the Caribbean.  Connect with the Blais Dwayne Blai  dwayneblai@gmail.com  246-289-1822 Tsega Blai  tsegablai@gmail.com  246-289-1823  Listen + Share If this update encouraged your faith, share it with someone who needs to see what God is doing around the world.  Follow for more stories that help you live a no-regrets life, make this life count, and multiply your faith.

April 5, 2026 - Baptisms by Grace Church of Mentor

This week James and Will are joined by Harry Tanfield. Born and raised in Yorkshire, Harry started racing aged 10, and having caught teams' attention with strong performances at races like Junior Paris-Roubaix, he turned professional aged 20 with JLT Condor. ProConti racing turned WordTour after a landmark season in 2018 that saw a silver at the Commonwealth Games time-trial, a British National track title and World Cup wins on the track plus an all-important stage win at the Tour de Yorkshire, making him the first Yorkshireman to win a stage of the race. The following year Harry joined WorldTour Team Katusha-Alpecin on a two year contract, but by the end of the season the team had folded. A few more unsettled seasons followed with moves to AG2R in 2020 then Qhubeka for 2021, but by 2022 Harry was back racing ProConti with Ribble-Weldtite, TDT then Saint Piran. Then, in 2025, he reacquainted himself with Ribble as part of the Ribble Outliers gravel team, for whom he still rides.In this chat, Harry talks about the good old days of elbows-out crit racing, mulls over the British race calendar's seeming implosion, speaks candidly about his tumultuous time at the WorldTour and how he handled team collapse and personal tragedy, plus what the gravel scene offers to riders coming from the road.Our chat begins at 6.19-----------------This episode is brought to you by the Hammerhead Karoo GPS bike computer. Visit hammerhead.io and use the code CYCLIST to get a free HR strap with every purchase (just be sure to add the strap to your cart then apply the code at checkout)This episode is also brought to you by the Maserati Grecale SUV car. For more information, go to maserati.com for more details------------------Did you know Cyclist is also stunning monthly print magazine?Subscribe now at store.cyclist.co.uk/cycpod and get every issue for less than in the shops, delivered straight to your doorAnd it's also a rather lovely website about everything road cycling and gravel. Check us out at cyclist.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Palm Sunday sermon, Pastor Bob explores Jesus' humble entry into Jerusalem on a donkey, reflecting on His control, worthiness of worship, and His mission to conquer our hearts rather than establish a political kingdom, inviting listeners to embrace Him as both Forgiver and Leader in their lives.

Brockport First Baptist sermon audio from Sunday, March 29, 2026: “Palms, Baptisms, and Levirate Marriage,” by Rev. Dr. Dan Brockway. Scripture reading: Genesis 38.Our mission is to embody God's love outside the walls of the church, in Brockport and beyond. SUPPORT OUR MINISTRIES: www.brockportfirstbaptist.org/giveLEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CHURCH: www.brockportfirstbaptist.org

Today we will be looking at 3 Baptisms in the Bible and we will get 3 facts from these Baptists that will help us in our life today.

Today we will be looking at 3 Baptisms in the Bible and we will get 3 facts from these Baptists that will help us in our life today.

“How Does Baptism save us?” This question opens a discussion on the Biblical evidence supporting baptism’s role in salvation. Other topics include the Catholic Church’s stance on full immersion baptisms, the significance of being marked with a seal in Ephesians 1:13, and the validity of baptisms performed in Protestant churches. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:30 – What’s the Biblical Evidence That Baptism Saves Us? 11:42 – Why does the Catholic Church not employ full immersion Baptisms? 15:14 – I'm a recent convert. Ephesians 1:13 having belief in him you were marked with a Seal, how is that different from being baptized? 20:41 – Would the Church accept a baptism that was administered in Protestant Church, if the protestant minister preached that baptism was just a symbol? 29:45 – Orthodox teach full immersion baptism, why doesn't Roman rite do full immersion? 35:54 – How does baptism assist us in avoiding sin? 47:20 – In an emergency baptism how would the church validate it? 50:00 – People who return want to be re-baptized. Is it a misplaced desire?

Why have baptisms declined in recent years? Clifton and Hallock explore several contributing factors—from raising the theological bar for baptism to shifts in evangelistic practices and cultural polarization. They also discuss how fewer invitations, less evangelism training, and changing attitudes toward re-baptism may be affecting the numbers. The conversation is honest, pastoral, and hopeful, calling churches back to evangelistic clarity and courage. Key Topics Higher theological standards for baptism Re-baptism conversations The decline of public invitations Evangelism training gaps Ministry in a polarized culture Resources Related to this Episode: 3 Circles Evangelism Kit Life in the Negative World by Aaron M. Renn

Before boarding a flight in Korea, Eugene has some very exciting news to share with you. Baptisms in Afghanistan, doors opening in North Korea, and more.