Podcasts about Beatitudes

A viral evangelist is praised for sharing the gospel on an Alaska Airlines flight—but did she actually present the gospel biblically? Todd examines the message, then takes on several of today's most troubling examples of bad theology and explains why getting doctrine right matters. Segment 1 • Did the viral Alaska Airlines evangelist present the gospel accurately? • What's missing from many modern gospel presentations? • Why does the order of the gospel message matter? Segment 2 • Amanda Grace claims hidden biblical messages are found in numbers. Is this how Christians should interpret Scripture? • Bethel leaders declare an end to racism by banging a staff. Can Christians really "decree and declare" reality? • A Methodist church rewrites the Beatitudes. How far is too far? Segment 3 • Which modern headlines reveal the greatest confusion about justice and biblical truth? • Todd and Jimmy weigh several bizarre stories and ask, "Which one is the most tragic?" • Why should Christians evaluate every headline through a biblical worldview? Segment 4 • Why are the nations raging according to Psalm 2? • Is politics really America's biggest problem? • What's the only solution that can truly transform a nation? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!

Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount by announcing that God's Kingdom has arrived through Him and inviting everyone to become part of it by surrendering to Him as King. The Beatitudes are declarations of God's blessing and an invitation into His Kingdom, not a list of rules or behaviors required to earn salvation. The true blessed life is found through faith in Jesus, whose grace—not our good works—brings us into God's Kingdom and transforms how we live.

The Blessed Life According to the Son | Part 5Blessed are the Persecuted PeacemakersMatthew 4:17, 23-25, 5:1-12 | King's Chapel Live StreamWhat does it mean to live as a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven?Jesus says that peacemakers are blessed because they will be called sons of God. As members of God's family, we are invited to share in His family business by seeking peace with God, peace with our neighbors, and peace within our communities. Peacemaking is not passive. It is a Gospel-shaped way of living that reflects the character of our heavenly Father.Jesus also tells His followers that those who are persecuted because of Him are blessed. Their reward is not found in comfort or approval from the world, but in the Kingdom of Heaven. Even when following Christ brings opposition, rejection, or hardship, Jesus calls His people to rejoice and be glad because their reward is great and they are in the company of faithful believers who have gone before them.In this message, we see that the blessed life is not always an easy life. It is a life rooted in Christ, marked by peacemaking, and strengthened by the hope of God's Kingdom.If you are trying to follow Jesus faithfully in a divided world, this message will encourage you to pursue peace with courage and to trust that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.Connect with King's Chapel in Longwood, FL - ▶️ www.kingschapelfl.com▶️ https://www.facebook.com/KingsChapelfl▶️ https://www.instagram.com/kingschapelfl/For the GLORY of our Great GodFor the GOOD of our NeighborMatthew 5:9-12 sermon, blessed are the peacemakers, persecution for Christ sermon, Sermon on the Mount, Beatitudes explained, Christian peacemaking, Kingdom of Heaven sermon, following Jesus faithfully, King's Chapel Longwood FL

The Bible study given at Calvary Chapel Corvallis on Sunday, August 2, 2026.

Send us Fan MailJesus commanded His followers to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” While this familiar phrase is often reduced to simply being kind or positive, Jesus intended something far more consequential.In Matthew 5, immediately after describing the character of true believers in the Beatitudes—and warning that they would face persecution, insults, and false accusations—Jesus called them to live in a way that would be clearly noticed by the world.Salt preserves what would otherwise decay, while light exposes darkness and shows the way. Likewise, Christians are called to preserve what is good and godly and to proclaim the light of the gospel and biblical truth. But when believers compromise and become indistinguishable from the world, their influence is weakened.As America grows increasingly dark spiritually and morally through false religion, destructive political ideologies, and rebellion against God's design, the need for faithful Christians has never been greater. Hope is not lost, for God remains sovereign—but believers must be clear-eyed, courageous, and intentional about honoring Christ through their words, conduct, and convictions.This week's program examines what Jesus truly meant when He called Christians to be salt and light—and how believers can faithfully fulfill that calling in an increasingly hostile world. Guest: Alex McFarland, a Christian apologist and co-host of Exploring the Word on the American Family Radio network and host of “The Alex McFarland Show,” on NRB TV joins us to discuss some examples of the darkening taking place in our nation.PROGRAM NOTES:“You Are the Salt of the Earth” sermon from John MacArthurAlex McFarland

The biggest obstacle to following Jesus may be the person you see in the mirror.This week, Paul and Shelby explore Jesus' call to meekness, explaining why true joy begins when we stop putting ourselves at the center and learn to live for God's glory instead of our own.To hear more from The Connecting Podcast, visit PaulTripp.com/Connecting.

The biggest obstacle to following Jesus may be the person you see in the mirror.This week, Paul and Shelby explore Jesus' call to meekness, explaining why true joy begins when we stop putting ourselves at the center and learn to live for God's glory instead of our own.To hear more from The Connecting Podcast, visit PaulTripp.com/Connecting.

Unlock the secret to genuine happiness and spiritual fulfillment—by craving righteousness more than anything else. This episode reveals why nourishing your soul with God's righteousness is the most satisfying pursuit, and how it transforms every aspect of your life.In this inspiring episode, you'll discover how Jesus' teachings in Matthew 5 turn traditional success on its head. We explore the profound contrast between seeking worldly accomplishments and pursuing true righteousness, emphasizing that only the latter leads to lasting satisfaction. We share powerful insights on how our hunger for material things leaves us empty, while a deep desire for God's right standing provides fulfillment beyond measure.We break down the meaning behind the Beatitudes: what it truly means to hunger and thirst after righteousness. Pastor Phil discusses the significance of this longing—how it sustains us through life's toughest seasons and humbles us during our moments of prosperity. You'll hear stories of biblical Israel's repeated apostasies and the call to return to God's path, illustrating the necessity of aligning our desires with divine priorities.If you've ever felt spiritually dry or dissatisfied despite chasing after success, this episode offers a blueprint for a more fulfilling journey. You'll learn how righteousness is not about perfection but about trust, faith, and seeking God's presence with all your heart. Pastor Phil encourages daring honesty—asking God to increase your hunger and to help you prioritize Him above all else. The promise? Complete satisfaction when you pursue righteousness as your main course.Perfect for believers craving a deeper connection with God, or anyone tired of the emptiness that worldly pursuits bring. This episode will inspire you to shift your focus from fleeting achievements to eternal joy—learning that in seeking God's righteousness, we find the true purpose, peace, and happiness we've been searching for.Are you ready to stop chasing shadows and start hungering for what truly nourishes your soul? Tune in, be challenged, and walk closer to God's heart today.

Duke talks about who Christ is and isn't, the blasphemous Beatitudes, and what the Left is up to in their attempts to tear down the ChurchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recorded live at Beatitudes Church in Phoenix, AZ on 7.26.26Preaching: Dr. Richard A. WingScripture: 2 Corinthians 9:6-8If you like what you hear, consider donating at:  https://beatitudeschurch.org/donate/To watch the full service, click here: Service of Worship | July 26, 2026

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison sit down with Kyle Hebert to discuss his remarkable journey from incarceration at Angola State Penitentiary to a life transformed by Jesus. Together, they explore key themes in the Gospel of Matthew, including forgiveness, mercy, the Beatitudes, and the redemptive power of God's grace. Grab your Bible and come hang out on the porch. SCRIPTURE REFERENCES: Matthew 5:1-10 Matthew 6:14-15 Matthew 18:21 Matthew 18:15-17 Matthew 18:27

What did Jesus actually mean by "blessed are the poor in spirit"? It's the first line of the Beatitudes, the opening of the most famous sermon ever preached, and it's almost the opposite of what most of us picture when we imagine the good life. In this message from Matthew 5:3, we walk through what "poor in spirit" really means, and why Jesus says the good life belongs not to the people who have it all together, but to the ones who come empty.We tend to fill in the blank "Blessed is the one who…" with success, security, or having our life in order. Jesus fills it in differently. Using the picture of a full cup and an empty cup, this teaching unpacks why the kingdom of heaven is available right now, not later, not after you've earned it, to anyone willing to come to God open-handed. It's an honest look at the Sermon on the Mount, grace, and what it means to stop striving and start receiving.Support the show

Christopher Coffman Matthew 5:10-16 In this final message on the Beatitudes, we explore what it actually costs to follow Jesus, and why that cost is worth it, as well as how we can be salt and light in our world.

What does Jesus really mean when He says, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God"?In this powerful message from Shepherdsville, Kentucky, we continue our journey through the Beatitudes by exploring one of Jesus' most challenging and hope-filled promises. A pure heart isn't about perfection - it's about having an undivided heart that is fully surrendered to God.If you've ever struggled with disappointment, bitterness, anxiety, cynicism, or feeling distant from God, this episode offers biblical encouragement and practical steps to help you rediscover childlike wonder, heal from life's wounds, and recognize God's presence in your everyday life.Whether you're part of the Shepherdsville community or listening from anywhere in the world, this message will challenge you to examine what is shaping your heart and inspire you to pursue a deeper relationship with Jesus.In this episode, you'll discover:What "pure in heart" actually means in Matthew 5:8Why Jesus cares more about the condition of your heart than outward appearancesHow to overcome a divided heart and grow in spiritual integrityThe difference between wisdom and cynicismPractical ways to guard your heart and experience God's presence dailyHow childlike faith helps us see God's goodness in ordinary momentsIf you're looking for a church in Shepherdsville, KY, biblical teaching rooted in Scripture, or encouragement for your walk with Christ, this episode is for you.Keywords: Shepherdsville KY church, Shepherdsville Kentucky sermon, Beatitudes Bible study, Matthew 5:8, Pure in Heart, Christian podcast, Kentucky church, Jesus' teachings, Sermon on the Mount, Christian living, faith, spiritual growth, Bible teaching, discipleship, seeing God, grace, mercy, Kingdom of God.

Recorded on Sunday, July 26, 2026. Other scripture cited: Matthew 5:1-12; Revelation 21:1-6.Support the show

Listen in as Pastor Alex finshes our sermon series All In Summer on the Beatitudes!

The Blessed Life According to the Son | Part 4Blessed are the Merciful and PureMatthew 4:17, 23-25, 5:1-8 | King's Chapel Live StreamWhat does a life transformed by the Gospel actually look like?As Jesus continues the Beatitudes, He reminds us that the blessed life is not something we earn. It is the life that grows in those who have already been made citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven through Christ.Because we have received God's mercy, we become people who show mercy. Because Christ has given us a new heart, we begin to live with an undivided devotion to Him.In this message, we explore what it means to be merciful toward those who are hurting, broken, and in need. Just as the Good Samaritan showed compassion to a stranger, Christians are called to reflect the mercy of Jesus by restoring dignity, extending kindness, and pointing others to the hope found in Christ.We also consider what Jesus means when He says, "Blessed are the pure in heart." A pure heart is not a perfect heart. It is a heart that has been made new by God's grace and is wholly devoted to Him. Through Christ, God replaces our hearts of stone with hearts that desire Him above everything else.The Beatitudes are not a list of qualifications for entering God's Kingdom. They are the beautiful evidence of what God is doing in the lives of those He has already redeemed.If you long to become more like Christ and to reflect His mercy in a divided world, this message points us back to the transforming power of the Gospel.Connect with King's Chapel in Longwood, FL - ▶️ www.kingschapelfl.com▶️ https://www.facebook.com/KingsChapelfl▶️ https://www.instagram.com/kingschapelfl/For the GLORY of our Great GodFor the GOOD of our NeighborMatthew 5:7-8 sermon, blessed are the merciful, blessed are the pure in heart, Sermon on the Mount, Beatitudes explained, mercy in the Bible, pure in heart meaning, Good Samaritan sermon, Christian discipleship, King's Chapel Longwood FL

Closing out the summer series on the Beatitudes, Pastor Scott Engebretson addresses Matthew 5:10–12: "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Scott unpacks the reality of Christian persecution across the globe while providing necessary perspective on what persecution is—and isn't—for the Western church. Emphasizing that Jesus's vision of flourishing is not an easy, fairytale life, Scott shows how living under the rule of King Jesus and pursuing real righteousness naturally clashes with the values of the world. He challenges us to move beyond silent self-protection and courageously live out our faith, asking whether we are truly willing to risk social discomfort, lost friendships, or cultural pushback for the sake of Jesus. For more information about the church, please visit northwestvineyard.org.

What are you truly hungry for? This week, Pastor Doug Rife explores Jesus' words in Matthew 5:6: "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." In a world overflowing with distractions, choices, and temporary satisfactions, Jesus invites us to cultivate a deeper desire—the kind of longing that can only be satisfied by God. This message unpacks what it means to hunger and thirst for God's righteousness and justice. Rather than settling for a faith that simply fits into an already busy life, Jesus calls us to a wholehearted pursuit of His kingdom, allowing His priorities to reshape our hearts, desires, and perspective. Sunday, July 26th, 2026 Speaker: Pastor Doug Rife Series: Enough: A Series on the Beatitudes How can we pray for you? - Text “PrayFW” to 94000 Giving - https://templefw.churchcenter.com/give/ Welcome to Temple Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. We exist to guide people to life change in Jesus Christ. For more information: https://www.templebaptistchurch.net/

Deacon Tony Mercado, a permanent deacon with the Diocese of Orange in California, offers his thoughts on suffering and how it can help us to grow spiritually.   Support the show

What if sadness isn't something to avoid, but a mark of God's grace at work in your life?This week, Paul and Shelby continue their study of the Beatitudes by exploring why Jesus calls those who mourn "blessed," and how a broken heart over the world's suffering and our own sin leads to the comfort and hope found only in Christ.

What if sadness isn't something to avoid, but a mark of God's grace at work in your life?This week, Paul and Shelby continue their study of the Beatitudes by exploring why Jesus calls those who mourn "blessed," and how a broken heart over the world's suffering and our own sin leads to the comfort and hope found only in Christ.

The characteristics in the ladder of the Beatitudes

If you think your flaws and failures automatically make you a better, more "authentic" leader, you've completely misunderstood the lesson of Moses. Most civilizations turned their founders into saints. The Hebrew Bible does the opposite. Abraham falters. Jacob deceives. David sins. Moses—the greatest prophet in Judaism—is denied entry into the Promised Land. This isn't a bug in the Torah. It's one of its most revolutionary ideas. In this episode of Madlik, Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz explore why Judaism insists that greatness and imperfection can coexist—but never confuses failure with virtue. Along the way they examine the Torah's portrait of Moses, the Beatitudes, Isaiah, Jonathan Sacks, Nahum Sarna, David Flusser, Martin Luther, Bret Stephens, and the surprising connection between biblical leadership and today's culture of authenticity, victimhood, and populism. Can a society acknowledge human weakness without celebrating it? That question may be as relevant today as it was in the wilderness. Key Takeaways The Torah Tells the Truth About Greatness - Unlike most ancient cultures, the Hebrew Bible doesn't turn its heroes into flawless saints. Moses, Abraham, Jacob, and David are remembered in all their greatness—and all their humanity. Their failures don't diminish them; they make their greatness credible. Flaws Are Lessons, Not Credentials - Judaism teaches us to acknowledge weakness, learn from it, and overcome it. There is a profound difference between recognizing imperfection and celebrating it. The Torah preserves failure to cultivate humility—not to make failure itself a virtue. Leadership Is Measured by Character, Not Victimhood Moses never reaches the Promised Land, yet he remains Judaism's greatest leader because of his faithfulness, courage, and willingness to serve a mission larger than himself. In an age that often confuses authenticity with virtue and grievance with authority, the Torah reminds us that true leadership is earned by responsibility, not by imperfection alone. Timestamps [00:00] Flawed Heroes Thesis [01:14] Parsha Setup and Welcome [02:07] Moses Pleads to Enter [04:37] Rav Lachem Midrash [06:49] Vetchanan and Human Limits [07:43] Mythic Moses Rejected [11:02] Sacks on Mortality and Mistakes [18:31] Flaws Versus Virtue [19:11] Beatitudes and Isaiah [25:58] Essenes and Poverty Ideal [31:09] Modern Populism and Privilege [32:58] Closing Shabbat Shalom Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://voices.sefaria.org/sheets/739882 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

CheckoutThe God Centered Concept Academy Training Community to learn what growth in Christ ishttps://api.tuvu.com/redirectGroup/6a2ac0e2c9f728027338244cCheck out this link to view Kingdom Cross Roads on TV.https://jesussaid.tv/?affiliate=tswright_gccTo get a copy of our new book "Embracing the Truth" or to have TS Wright speak at your event or conference or if you simply want spiritual or life coaching or just a consultation visit:www.tswrightspeaks.comVisit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation.www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.Show NotesIntroduction: TS Wright welcomes back Maureen Miller to discuss her heart-centered devotional work.The Backside of Beauty: Maureen shares the inspiration behind her Selah Award winning devotion, which focuses on seeing God's hand even when His face seems hidden.Scriptural Foundation: A deep dive into Exodus 33:18-23, where Moses is placed in the cleft of the rock to see the "backside" of God's glory.Lessons from Nature: How the unique rendering of a sunflower facing away from the viewer serves as a metaphor for finding beauty in the receptacle, or the "backside," of life's experiences.Personal Testimony: Maureen discusses her husband's surgery and how the Lord provided peace and a clear pathology during a dark season.Gideon's Book: An overview of Maureen's dual-timeline novel exploring adoption, racial reconciliation, and the sanctity of human life.The Nature of Happiness: A reflection on the Beatitudes and how true joy often comes through the paradox of suffering and struggle.KeywordsChristian devotionals, faith in suffering, biblical discipleship, Maureen Miller author, Kingdom Cross Roads, Selah Awards, spiritual growth.Call to ActionIf this episode touched your heart, please hit the follow and subscribe button to stay updated with the Kingdom Cross Roads community. Visit Maureen Miller's website at Arise Daily Devos to read her award-winning reflections, and head over to TS Wright's official site to explore more resources on discipleship and the Great Harvest

Sunday Sermon @ St. Mary & St. Mark Coptic Orthodox Church - Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic ~ July 15, 2026

In this video hosted by Jenni Wong Clayville, founder and president of Troia Ministries and one of the teaching pastors at Mariners Church, Ines Franklin, shares her insights on how to make blended families work. With her extensive experience in a blended family, Ines discusses the importance of active listening and understanding the unique dynamics involved.Blended family challenges are numerous, and Ines emphasizes that addressing these issues with blended families requires patience and empathy. She highlights how to make blended families work by focusing on communication and the importance of active listening. This approach helps in navigating the complexities that often arise.Ines also touches on the issues with blended families, such as the stigma and misunderstandings they face. She believes that recognizing these challenges is crucial for creating a supportive environment to foster a sense of belonging and understanding among family members.Recognize the unique dynamics of blended families.Emphasize the importance of active listening.Address blended family challenges with empathy.Understand the issues with blended families to provide better support.Discover healing in through faith and in a church community.Practical steps on how to make blended families work include open communication and setting realistic expectations. By acknowledging the issues with blended families, individuals can better navigate the challenges they face. The importance of active listening plays a pivotal role in resolving conflicts and building strong relationships.

Recorded live at Beatitudes Church in Phoenix, AZ on 7.19.26Preaching: Reverend Sandi AnthonyScriptures: Matthew 13:1-23If you like what you hear, consider donating at:  https://beatitudeschurch.org/donate/To watch the full service, click here: Service of Worship | July 19, 2026

Richard Schaberg, from Haslett, Michigan, USAYou can read Richard's article in the Christian Science Sentinel.

BEATITUDES 06 | Journey Church Shepherdsville, KYWhat does it really mean to be merciful?In this message from Journey Church in Shepherdsville, Kentucky, we continue our Beatitudes series by exploring one of Jesus' most challenging teachings:"Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." (Matthew 5:7)It's easy to want justice when someone hurts us. It's much harder to extend mercy. But Jesus calls His followers to a different way of living—one marked by compassion, forgiveness, humility, and grace.In this sermon, you'll discover:What biblical mercy really meansThe difference between mercy and graceWhy mercy doesn't ignore truth or remove healthy boundariesHow to forgive without pretending the hurt didn't happenWhy mercy is central to the Gospel and the life of every ChristianPractical ways to show mercy in your family, workplace, friendships, and communityWhether you're exploring Christianity, looking for hope, or searching for a church in Shepherdsville, KY, this message will encourage you to experience the mercy of Jesus—and to become someone who extends that same mercy to others.If you're looking for a welcoming church near Shepherdsville, Bullitt County, or the Louisville area, we'd love to have you join us at Journey Church.Scripture: Matthew 5:7, Ephesians 2, James 2:13If this message encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, share it with someone who needs hope, and join us as we continue studying Jesus' Sermon on the Mount.#JourneyChurch #ShepherdsvilleKY #ChurchInShepherdsville #BullittCounty #KentuckyChurch #ChristianPodcast #BibleTeaching #Beatitudes #Matthew5 #Mercy #Forgiveness #Faith #Jesus #SermonOnTheMount #ChristianLiving #Grace #Hope #ChurchNearMe

The Sermon on the Mount is one of the most impactful and important teachings at the beginning of Jesus' public ministry. Join us as we dive into His teachings on the heart of God's kingdom and what it means to live as His follower today. From the Beatitudes to prayer, generosity, forgiveness and faithful obedience, each message unpacks how Christ calls us to a transformed life that reflects His truth, grace, and righteousness in everyday living.

FASTEST RELIGIOUS GROUP IN AMERICA IS THE NONES GROUP SAYS WE DON'T AFFILIATE- FEWER PEOPLE SEE THE BIBLE AS A SOURCE FOR SPIRITUAL WISDOM AND LIFE                                     JUST RELAX WITH THE JESUS CHURCH BIBLE THING COULD RECEIVE GREATER ACCEPTANCE IN CULTURE QUOTE BARNA    “EVERYDAY THE CHURCH IS BECOMING MORE LIKE THE WORLD IT ALLEGEDLY IS […]

Facetime – Matthew 5 – The Beatitudes Good morning ER – As always, I'm thrilled to be here with you – this part of our COTN family holds a very dear place in my heart. So thank you for the opportunity to enter God's word with you. As you know over the last several weeks […]

The Christian life can seem difficult at first, but Christ does more than command holiness—He heals the heart. Reflecting on St. John Chrysostom's homily on Matthew 5, this sermon shows how the Holy Spirit gradually reshapes our desires so that virtue becomes joyful and love becomes natural. Christ fulfills the Law not only in Himself but also, by His grace, in us.  Enjoy the show! --- The Sunday of the Fourth Ecumenical Council Matthew 5:14-19; Titus 3:8-15 In today's Gospel, our Lord says something that must have surprised His listeners. "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them." Now, at first glance, that almost seems unnecessary. Nobody listening to the Beatitudes would naturally conclude that Jesus was attacking Moses. After all, He had been teaching humility, mercy, purity of heart, peacemaking, and love. Nothing about that sounds like rebellion against God's Law. So why does He stop to say this? Saint John Chrysostom says it is because Jesus knows what He is about to do. He's about to say things that sound startling. "You have heard it said, 'Do not murder.' But I say to you, do not even harbor hatred." "You have heard it said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I say to you, do not even cultivate lust." He isn't lowering the standard. He's raising it. The people might naturally think, "Wait a minute. Is He replacing Moses? Is He setting aside everything God gave us?" So before He says another word, He reassures them. "I have not come to abolish. I have come to fulfill." That word fulfill is important. Christ doesn't erase the Law. He reveals and connects us with what it was always pointing toward. The commandment against murder was never just about keeping blood off your hands. It was always meant to teach us to love our neighbor. Christ simply carries it all the way into the heart. The commandment against adultery was never merely about outward behavior. It was always about purity of heart and faithfulness. Christ carries it into our thoughts, our desires, our imagination. Every commandment moves in the same direction—from external obedience toward inward transformation. That's what fulfillment means. Saint John Chrysostom points out something else that is beautiful. Christ fulfills the Law in three ways. First, He fulfills it Himself. He alone keeps it perfectly. He can honestly ask, "Which one of you convicts Me of sin?" Every commandment finds its perfect expression in Him. Second, He fulfills the prophecies. Everything the prophets had spoken—His birth, His ministry, His suffering, His kingdom—comes true in Him. But then Chrysostom gives a third fulfillment, and I think this is the one we often forget. Christ fulfills the Law in us. And that was necessary, because the Law could teach righteousness, but it could not communicate the life by which righteousness is fulfilled. The Law could show us the good. It could expose our failures. But it could not heal the heart. Christ does what the Law by itself could never do. Through His death, resurrection, and the gift of the Holy Spirit, He actually begins making us into the kind of people the Law always envisioned.   Not merely people who avoid murder... but people who love. Not merely people who avoid adultery... but people who become pure. Not merely people who tell the truth... but people whose whole lives become truthful. That's why Christianity isn't about lowering expectations. Neither is it about adding more rules. It's about becoming a new creation. This is why Orthodoxy speaks so much about theosis. God's purpose is not simply to forgive sinners, but to make them partakers of the divine life.God is not merely interested in better behavior. He is forming saints. The commandments are not arbitrary rules meant to restrict life. They are a portrait of fully human life—life as it looks when it is filled with the life of God. So when Christ says, "You have heard... but I say to you..." He is not correcting Moses. He is revealing the deepest meaning Moses had been pointing toward all along. And there is one more thing that Saint John Chrysostom says that I find deeply encouraging. He reminds us that at first the Christian life can seem difficult. Forgiveness feels hard. Patience feels unnatural. Humility feels costly. We imagine that holiness means spending our whole lives forcing ourselves to do things we don't really want to do. But that's only true at the beginning. As Christ heals the heart, He also heals our desires. The things that once seemed impossible slowly become natural. The sins that once looked attractive begin to lose their appeal. The virtues that once felt burdensome become a source of joy. That is what spiritual formation is. God is not simply teaching us to behave differently. He is teaching us to love differently. That is why we return to the Church week after week. Why we pray the same prayers. Why we fast. Why we confess. Why we receive the Holy Mysteries. These are not religious chores. They are the ordinary means by which the Holy Spirit reshapes the heart. Little by little, almost without noticing it, Christ is teaching us to desire what He desires and to love what He loves.  The [lost] likeness is gradually restored. But that encouragement also comes with a warning: It's possible to keep the rules while missing their purpose. The Pharisees became experts at outward observance while neglecting mercy, humility, forgiveness, and love. That temptation hasn't disappeared.   It's possible to be outwardly Orthodox—to fast, attend services, know the prayers, defend the faith—and still carry resentment, pride, envy, or contempt in the heart. Christ loves us too much to let us settle for appearances. He always leads us deeper. From actions... to desires. From behavior... to character. From keeping commandments... to becoming people who naturally love what is good. So let us not become discouraged if the road sometimes seems steep. Let us simply keep taking the next faithful step. As Saint Paul says, "Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, let us press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." That is the Christian life—not perfection overnight, but faithful formation day after day, until the commandments are no longer something imposed upon us from the outside, but fulfilled within us by Christ Himself. That is what He came to do—not to abolish the Law, but to fulfill it, in Himself, and by His grace, in us. In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

In this message, Pastor Marcus Meier teaches out of the Beatitudes and the Sermon on the Mount. He shares on the elements of discipleship that Jesus highlighted, and encourages us to live them out in light of the coming age. We also celebrate a beautiful baptism Sunday!

Continuing the summer series on the Beatitudes, Pastor Hannah Engebretson explores Matthew 5:9: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." Opening with a lighthearted look at a 20-year marital compromise, Hannah dives into the profound difference between simply being a "peacekeeper" who avoids conflict at all costs and being an active "peacemaker" who courageously steps into tension to bring about healing and wholeness. Drawing lessons from modern culture, the story of Joseph in Genesis, and Jesus's own teachings, she illustrates that peacemaking is not a passive personality trait—it is the costly, active evidence of God's grace and peace at work within our lives. For more information about the church, please visit northwestvineyard.org.

The path to true blessing begins where our pride ends. This week on The Connecting Podcast, Paul and Shelby discuss what it means to be "poor in spirit" and why recognizing our spiritual need is the doorway to God's grace and lasting joy.To hear more from The Connecting Podcast, visit http://paultripp.com/connecting.

The path to true blessing begins where our pride ends. This week on The Connecting Podcast, Paul and Shelby discuss what it means to be "poor in spirit" and why recognizing our spiritual need is the doorway to God's grace and lasting joy.To hear more from The Connecting Podcast, visit http://paultripp.com/connecting.

In this episode I am once again joined by Alan Chapman, British writer, occultist, and spiritual teacher. Alan takes a deep dive into his understanding of the phenomenon of prophecy, how it operates, and its surprising purpose. Alan explains the different between prophecy and prediction, the tests a prophet will face, and contrasts his approach to that of the Old Testament prophets. Alan also shares stories of his own prophetic experiences, including a prophecy which he believes concerns events to come in 2026. … Video version: www.guruviking.com Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:43 - Prophecy vs prediction 02:57 - What is prophecy? 03:27 - Prophecy and the path of awakening 03:51 - 2 worlds 05:58 - Expressing the silent knowing 08:43 - Confounding factors on the path 11:32 - Surprising encounters as awakening deepens 12:24 - The role of the prophet 15:00 - Are musicians and artists prophets? 16:26 - Speaking truth to power 20:20 - Alan's prophetic dream about Fukushima 21:51 - Prophecy about Alan's awakening 26:04 - Premonitions and more on Fukushima 27:03 - Prediction vs prophecy 30:35 - Divine mercy and a parental tone 31:50 - Purpose of prophecy 34:58 - Divine judgement and smiting 36:36 - Interpreting Old Testament prophecy 40:47 - Love not wrath 45:21 - Is a prophecy inevitable or can it be changed? 50:04 - Incarnation and identity formation 52:21 - Path of spiritual seeking 53:18 - Rebellion and revenge 54:25 - Cultural rebellion and inevitability 58:39 - Analysing Alan's Fukushima prophecy 01:01:27 - Oracles and prophetic institutions 01:03:00 - Alan's prophecy about 2026 01:24:44 - Teachers and trusting the silent knowing 01:28:44 - Understanding why prophecy happens 01:30:37 - Has Alan failed? 01:34:26 - Tests on the path 01:38:16 - Alan's comments on Western culture 01:38:44 - We have forgotten the divine 01:42:13 - The Presocratics were prophets and magicians 01:44:23 - Alan comments on today's geopolitical and cultural situation 01:46:23 - False flags and true flags 01:49:59 - Alan's advice for living in today's world 01:53:03 - Beatitudes and being light 01:56:30 - The consequences of violating your conscience 01:59:07 - True repentance 02:01:55 - Alan's relationship with Jesus Christ 02:12:07 - Upcoming Magia exegesis 02:13:43 - Planned series about Alan's Magia system … Previous episodes with Alan Chapman:  - https://www.guruviking.com/search?q=chapman To find our more about Alan Chapman visit: - https://barbarouswords.com/ For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James

Knowing the rules doesn't mean you know God. Alex Quist spent years doing everything right but missing God.Most people who grew up in church know how to perform faith. They know the prayers, what to avoid, how to look like a believer around believers. What they often don't know is what it feels like when faith stops being performance and becomes real.Alex Quist lived both sides. This episode is about what flipped it: a junior year of college, a community whose joy didn't add up, and a slow realization that knowing about God and knowing God are not the same thing.Recorded live in Jerusalem during a week-long trip through Israel's holy sites, Alex and Doug also discuss marriage, fatherhood, what a toddler charging at an electrical outlet has to do with trusting God, standing at the Mount of Beatitudes, Bible open, tracing three chapters of Scripture across the actual landscape where they happened, Alex says, “these aren't Bible stories, they're Bible events. The evidence is everywhere.”This conversation is grounded in the conviction that Jesus is real, community is essential, and the gospel is genuinely good news.--Donate to DOUG ELKS MINISTRIES One-Time or Monthly! (TAX DEDUCTIBLE)Visit ➡️ https://www.dougelks.com/donateJoin the Kingdom Partners ➡️ https://www.dougelks.com/kingdompartnersBook Doug to Preach ➡️ https://www.dougelks.com/bookingformDoug's Instagram ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/dougelks/Doug's TikTok ➡️ https://www.tiktok.com/@dougelksDoug Elks Ministries Instagram ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/dougelksministries/

Who really gets the good stuff?In this reflection on Psalm 113, John Ortberg explores what Dallas Willard called the Law of Inversion—one of the great themes running through the entire Bible.Again and again, God overturns the world's prestige system.The first become last.The overlooked become honored.The humble are lifted up.From Abel to Jacob, Hannah to Mary, the Beatitudes to Jesus washing His disciples' feet, Scripture tells one remarkable story: God's kingdom operates differently.This episode explores:- Psalm 113 and God's care for the overlooked- The Law of Inversion- The world's pecking order- Hannah's prayer and Mary's Magnificat- The Beatitudes- Jesus' upside-down kingdom- Why every person has access to "the good stuff"Scriptures:- Psalm 113- Genesis- Exodus 15- 1 Samuel 2- Luke 1- Matthew 5- John 13- Philippians 2#Psalm113 #JohnOrtberg #DallasWillard #KingdomOfGod #Beatitudes #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Humility

What does Jesus really mean when He says, "Blessed are the poor in spirit"?In a culture that celebrates self-reliance, success, and independence, Jesus opens the Sermon on the Mount with a statement that seems completely upside down. In this episode, we explore one of the most foundational teachings of Christianity and discover why recognizing our need for God is actually the beginning of true blessing.Through the Beatitudes, the church at Laodicea, and practical everyday examples, you'll learn why spiritual poverty isn't weakness—it's the posture that allows us to experience the fullness of God's grace. Whether you're walking through a difficult season or feeling comfortable in your faith, this message is an invitation to trade self-sufficiency for complete dependence on Christ.In this episode, you'll discover:What it truly means to be "poor in spirit"Why Jesus redefines both poverty and blessingHow pride quietly distances us from GodThe danger of self-sufficiency in the Christian lifeWhy humility is the starting point for spiritual transformationPractical ways to cultivate a posture of dependence on Jesus every dayIf you've ever wondered how to deepen your relationship with Christ or why the Beatitudes begin where they do, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to embrace the posture that unlocks the Kingdom of Heaven.

We all want to grow something good in our lives, but wanting growth and actually experiencing it are two very different things. In Matthew 13, Jesus describes four types of soil that represent four conditions of the human heart: calloused, shallow, crowded, and fruitful. The seed is the Word of God, the sower is Jesus, and there is nothing wrong with either. The only variable is the condition of our hearts. Through the Beatitudes, Jesus gives us a practical path forward. Practicing mercy softens a calloused heart, pursuing purity deepens a shallow heart, and promoting peace clears a crowded heart. Tending to the soil of our hearts is not a one-time decision but an ongoing, faithful practice. When we do, Jesus cultivates fruitfulness in us that blesses everyone around us. Follow and subscribe to stay updated with our latest content: Youtube  | Facebook | Instagram | Central Wired Website

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Jesus never promised His followers an easy path—but He did promise they would be blessed..In the message "Blessed are the Persecuted," the final episode of the Beatitudes, Duane Sheriff explores why persecution is a normal part of following Christ and how believers can stand firm without fear, compromise, or bitterness. Jesus prepared His disciples to expect opposition for doing what is right, reminding us that faithfulness often brings resistance in a world that rejects God's truth.Discover the difference between suffering for wrongdoing and suffering for righteousness, why soft persecution can prepare us for greater tests of faith, and how God rewards those who remain steadfast. Through passages from Matthew 5, John 15, and 1 Peter, Duane reveals how trials refine our faith, deepen our fellowship with Christ, and strengthen us to live courageously. When we understand the blessed life Jesus described, we can endure opposition with confidence, joy, and an eternal perspective.

Today, we embark on the second installment of our series on the Beatitudes, looking at "Blessed are those who mourn,  for they shall be comforted" and "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth" (Matthew 5:4-5).We explore how mourning is not necessarily human sorrow, but rather sorrow over our spiritual condition. And then, we learn that meekness is strength under control...Join me as we understand why these characteristics of the believer are so critical to our growth, and that God does the work to develop them in us, so we truly never need to fake it!!(RAR2026EP29)

Beatitudes & woes

This sermon addresses the universal struggle of finding purpose and significance in life, particularly when we feel unseen or insignificant. The pastor shares his personal experience of feeling purposeless despite professional success, using this vulnerability to connect with the congregation. Through an exposition of the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount, the message reveals that Jesus specifically spoke to ordinary, overlooked people in Galilee—fishermen, laborers, widows, and the poor—to declare their immense value in God's kingdom. The core theological insight is that purpose is not found in our position, title, or accomplishments, but in our identity as children of God. The sermon emphasizes that God assigns purpose to His creation, and that purpose is twofold: to be salt (preserving culture through godly character) and light (leading others to Christ). The message challenges believers to find contentment not in circumstances or achievements, but in knowing whose they are, offering hope to those struggling with identity crises due to life changes, loss, or feelings of inadequacy.

What if the biggest problem in your life isn't your circumstances, but your character? This week on The Connecting Podcast, Paul and Shelby discuss why Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with the Beatitudes, and how lasting transformation comes not from escaping hardship, but from a heart that is being changed by God's grace.

What if the biggest problem in your life isn't your circumstances, but your character? This week on The Connecting Podcast, Paul and Shelby discuss why Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with the Beatitudes, and how lasting transformation comes not from escaping hardship, but from a heart that is being changed by God's grace.