Podcasts about Beatitudes

Every person is searching for what they believe is the good life, whether that means money, success, family, good health, or security. People often find themselves pursuing happiness, striving for what they consider the “good life.” When Jesus came into the world fully man and fully God, the crowds gathered from all directions to hear Him. When Jesus spoke, He delivered a message that was both counter-cultural and paradoxical, challenging every common notion of happiness and fulfillment. According to Jesus, the good life is one devoted to following Him—a life that recognizes its need for rescue and surrenders to Jesus as the sole ruler of the heart. The result of a life fully surrendered to Him is a series of proclamations and attitudes known as the Beatitudes.

In the Season 2 finale of The Choice, Ghost and Ashe in America unpack one of the most pivotal moments in the Gospel narrative as the story moves toward the Sermon on the Mount. The episode introduces Judas and explores a fictionalized backstory that examines how ambition, moral compromise, and the temptations of worldly success can shape a man's path. Through sharp analysis of the show's storytelling choices, Ghost and Ashe discuss how Judas's early decisions reveal the tension between pursuing power in the world and following the call of the Messiah. Meanwhile, the disciples struggle with division, insecurity, and doubt as they prepare for one of the most important teachings of Jesus' ministry. Against this backdrop of chaos and uncertainty, Jesus works with Matthew to craft the Sermon on the Mount, framing it as a revolutionary manifesto that challenges the moral assumptions of the world. The hosts break down the symbolism behind “salt of the earth,” the deeper meaning of the Beatitudes, and the contrast between the kingdom of God and the systems of power represented by religious leaders and political scheming. The result is a powerful discussion about humility, righteousness, and what it truly means to follow Christ.

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.

"Blessed are those who..." is how Jesus begins the most influential sermon ever preached. This section of the sermon is called the 'Beatitudes,' and is a description of Jesus' kingdom. It is the opposite of the kingdom of this world. In Jesus' kingdom, the people who understand their position before God are those who are blessed. Those who choose God's ways and choose repentance are those who reap blessing, if not here in this life, they reap blessing in eternity for faith in Jesus. 

Recorded live at Beatitudes Church in Phoenix, AZ on 3.1.26Preaching: Reverend Sandi AnthonyScriptures: John 3:1-17If you like what you hear, consider donating at:  https://beatitudeschurch.org/donate/To watch the full service, click here: Service of Worship | March 1, 2026

In this episode of The Upwards Podcast, host Tressa Spingler sits down with author and pastor Tiffany Stein for a conversation that goes where the church often doesn't — into the deep, disorienting territory of grief, lament, and the silence of God.Tiffany's new book, Mourning God, was born out of the loss of her infant son David, who lived only 53 days, and the years of secondary infertility and spiritual wrestling that followed. With pastoral tenderness and unflinching honesty, she guides us through what it means to mourn not only our losses — but the God we thought we knew.Together, Tressa and Tiffany explore:What grief really is — including the losses we rarely name (identity, health, dreams, relationships)The concept of secondary grief — mourning the God you thought you knewWhy lament is an act of faith, not a detour from itThe four-part framework of lament: turn, complain, ask, trustThe difference between the wall and the dark night of the soulHow the Psalms give language to grief when our own words failWhat it means to hold joy and sorrow together — and why the church struggles to make space for bothPractical ways to walk with a grieving friend — and how to ask for what you needA vision of resurrection hope as the foundation for enduring lossWe close with the Beatitudes — a moving benediction over every soul in a season of grief. This is a conversation full of compassion, biblical depth, and the kind of hope that is honest enough to hold sorrow alongside it.Resources Mentioned:Mourning God: Grieving Loss, Wrestling with God, and Finding Your Way Back to Life by Tiffany Stein - https://www.navpress.com/p/mourning-god/9781641589833Spotify Playlist inspired by the themes of Mourning God - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0tzsO1vVNYZAwHX01H3WaA?si=08d1ca13138d44cdThe Critical Journey: Stages in the Life of Faith by Janet Hagberg & Robert GuelichEmotionally Healthy Spirituality by Pete ScazzeroWalking with God through Pain and Suffering by Tim KellerScripture references: Psalm 27:13, Psalm 42–43, Psalm 88, Isaiah 53, John 11, Luke 23"You Bring the Morning" — song by Andy SquyresSubscribe to The Upwards Podcast wherever you get your podcasts, and visit slbf.org/studio for more conversations and resources.

In this episode, Brock and Abigail walk through the Beatitudes from Gospel of Matthew 5:2–12, unpacking what it truly means to live a “blessed” life according to Jesus. Together, they explore how Christ's words challenge our cultural understanding of blessing and redirect our hearts toward the kingdom of heaven.

Hey, Beyond Sunday listeners! This week we're joined by Junior High Director Jackson Munyon as we tackle the rest of the Beatitudes, where Jesus describes the unique character of his followers. What are the defining qualities of a Christ-transformed heart? And what does Jesus mean by his people being "blessed"? Tune in today to learn more! We are using John Stott's The Message of the Sermon on the Mount to guide our conversation this season — click here to purchase a copy of your own: https://bit.ly/4bzYgZI

The Beatitudes in Matthew 5 represent far more than simple blessings to be memorized or displayed on wall hangings. They constitute a revolutionary redefinition of who receives God's favor, challenging every assumption about success and blessing in the ancient world. Jesus delivered these words to society's most marginalized people - fishermen, day laborers, the sick, demon-possessed, and paralyzed individuals who occupied the lowest rungs of Roman society's honor-shame culture. In stark contrast to previous teachers who blessed the successful, victorious, and socially prominent, Jesus turned everything upside down by declaring blessed are the broken. The poor in spirit are those who recognize their complete spiritual destitution and dependence on God. Those who mourn grieve over the right things - sin, injustice, and the brokenness of the world - rather than numbing themselves with success or entertainment. The meek demonstrate strength under control, waiting for God's vindication rather than grasping for power. Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness possess an all-consuming longing for things to be made right in their relationship with God and in society. Remarkably, these four beatitudes paint a perfect portrait of Jesus himself, who came from humble circumstances, mourned deeply over the world's condition, refused to abuse his power, and was consumed with righteousness. The Beatitudes aren't commands to earn God's blessing but descriptions of those who already possess it through Christ. They speak directly to the broken, humble, and dependent - those who know they desperately need a Savior and find themselves exactly where God's kingdom begins.

The Beatitudes

The sermon centers on the sixth and seventh Beatitudes—blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God, and blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God—presenting a radical, counter-cultural vision of true happiness rooted in spiritual purity and divine reconciliation. Drawing from Scripture, it underscores the inherent corruption of the human heart, as revealed in both the Old and New Testaments, yet affirms that through faith, repentance, and the work of the Holy Spirit, purity of heart is attainable and leads to profound joy and intimate communion with God. The preacher emphasizes that a pure heart, cleansed of impurity and aligned with God's will, enables believers to see God by faith, much like Moses who endured trials by focusing on the invisible reward. Furthermore, peacemaking is portrayed not as passive compromise but as active participation in God's redemptive mission, reflecting His nature as the ultimate reconciler, and calling believers to pursue peace in personal relationships, society, and even in geopolitical realities, trusting that true peace comes through justice, strength, and divine sovereignty.

Remember God loves you so much he sent his Son Jesus Christ to take the punishment for your sins. You are of great value. Jesus loves you and He is just a prayer away! This episode includes AI-generated content.

Matthew 5 +++ EMBRACEEVV.COM

The sermon centers on the sixth and seventh Beatitudes—blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God, and blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God—presenting a radical, counter-cultural vision of true happiness rooted in spiritual purity and divine reconciliation. Drawing from Scripture, it underscores the inherent corruption of the human heart, as revealed in both the Old and New Testaments, yet affirms that through faith, repentance, and the work of the Holy Spirit, purity of heart is attainable and leads to profound joy and intimate communion with God. The preacher emphasizes that a pure heart, cleansed of impurity and aligned with God's will, enables believers to see God by faith, much like Moses who endured trials by focusing on the invisible reward. Furthermore, peacemaking is portrayed not as passive compromise but as active participation in God's redemptive mission, reflecting His nature as the ultimate reconciler, and calling believers to pursue peace in personal relationships, society, and even in geopolitical realities, trusting that true peace comes through justice, strength, and divine sovereignty.

Matthew 5:1-12 Listen to other great sleep mediations on Amen.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Young Adults Podcast | Ep.1 Beatitudes and Salt & Light

Pastor Lance continues our study in the Beatitudes, illustrating how a true child of the King imitates Him in expressing and extending peace. Are you a peacemaker? Text: Matthew 5:9. For more messages and resources, visit us at www.ccc-online.org.

Send a text In this episode of BuddyWalk with Jesus, we slow down over Matthew 5:10: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus isn't promoting paranoia, a victim mindset, or picking fights—He's preparing apprentices for what happens when Kingdom life collides with the values of the world. We explore what “persecuted” means in the original language, why Jesus qualifies it as suffering for righteousness (not for being difficult), and why He repeats the same promise as the first Beatitude: “theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” This episode helps you discern persecution versus consequences, resist bitterness or performative martyrdom, and remain rooted in the present-tense reality of God's Kingdom—even when faithfulness costs you. Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia

Today's passage is one of the "See For Yourself" passages Chapter 4 of Start Strong: A New Believer's Guide to Christianity. What does saving faith actually look like and how did Jesus define it? In this episode, we turn to Matthew 5:1–12 and the Beatitudes to hear Jesus describe the people who are truly “blessed.” Rather than offering a path to personal happiness or self-improvement, Jesus paints a picture of saving faith that recognizes sin, depends on grace, and trusts God for eternal life.In this week's episode, we explore:Why the Beatitudes are not a checklist for a better life, but a description of people who inherit the kingdom of heavenWhat Jesus means by calling the poor in spirit, the meek, and the persecuted “blessed”How the Beatitudes reveal the sharp divide between those in God's favor and those under judgmentThe four core convictions of saving faith: Recognize, Embrace, Accept, and Lean (R.E.A.L faith)Why future hope, not present comfort, defines who is truly fortunateHow Jesus' teaching exposes the lies we believe about God, ourselves, and where real life is foundAfter listening, you'll come away with a clearer understanding of what saving faith is—and what it is not. You'll see how the Beatitudes describe the heart posture of those who trust God rather than themselves, and why faith is ultimately about where you are headed, not how comfortable you are now.   Series: Start Strong: A New Believer's PodcastStart Strong: A New Believer's Guide to Christianity is available now wherever books are sold.

Hey, Beyond Sunday listeners! Join us this week as we begin to unpack the Beatitudes, where Jesus describes the unique character of his followers. What are the defining qualities of a Christ-transformed heart? And what does Jesus mean by his people being "blessed"? Tune in today to learn more! We are using John Stott's The Message of the Sermon on the Mount to guide our conversation this season — click here to purchase a copy of your own: https://bit.ly/4bzYgZI

What does it REALLY mean when Jesus says “Blessed are the peacemakers”? Most people assume it means being nice or avoiding conflict… but this episode breaks down the deeper spiritual reality behind peace, grace, faith, and identity as children of God. Straight Bible Episode 3 dives deep into the Sermon on the Mount to unpack the biblical definition of peace, the supernatural connection between grace and peace, and why peacemaking is evidence of transformation — not the cause of it.In this episode, Matt and crew explore powerful scripture connections across Matthew, Romans, Psalms, Hebrews, and more, revealing how peace functions as a spiritual force, a kingdom culture, and a manifestation of God's work inside believers. They also tackle controversial topics like division in families, denominational structure vs personal relationship with God, and why pursuing peace sometimes requires spiritual separation.

Recorded live at Beatitudes Church in Phoenix, AZ on 2.22.26Preaching: Dr. Richard A. WingScripture: Philippians 1:3-12If you like what you hear, consider donating at:  https://beatitudeschurch.org/donate/To watch the full service, click here: Service of Worship | February 22, 2026

Welcome to episode 238 of Grasp the Bible. In this episode, Pastor Drew continues our study entitled Kingdom Logic. Today we will cover:• “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4• “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” — Matthew 5:5• What it means to live radically different between the Kingdom and the world.Key Takeaways:· The Good Life is not normal — it is faithful.· The Beatitudes are a self-portrait of Jesus and a portrait of us still being completed.· Mourning is spiritual brokenness over our own sin — not worldly disappointment.· The opposite of mourning sin is celebrating, excusing, or admiring sin.· Those who mourn are comforted through forgiveness, freedom from sin's power, and eternal hope.· Meekness is humble submission under God's mission — strength under control.· True meekness flows from poverty of spirit and sorrow over sin.· The meek reflect Jesus — living not for their own will, but the Father's.· Kingdom people live radically differently from the world.Quotable:· The Good Life is not normal — it is faithful.· We must mourn deeply enough to do something about our sin.· Meekness is strength submitted to God's mission.· We are comforted so that we might comfort others.Application:· Examine whether you grieve over your sin or excuse it.· Repent deeply and walk in the comfort of Christ.· Humble yourself under the mighty hand of God (1 Peter 5:6–7).· Respond to others with compassion, not condemnation.· Live distinctly different from the world — Kingdom over culture.Connect with us:Website: https://springbaptist.orgFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/SBCKleinCampus (Klein Campus)https://www.facebook.com/SpringBaptist (Spring Campus)Need us to pray for you? Submit your prayer request to:https://springbaptist.org/prayer/If you haven't already done so, please leave us a rating and review in your podcast provider

Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Deacon Garlick and Mr. Luke Heintschel, headmaster of Coeur du Christ Academy, discuss the rest of ante-purgatory and then the first terrace--the purging of pride.Check out our GUIDE: 51 QUESTIONS ON THE PURGATORIO.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for more information.The conversation explores the transition from Ante-Purgatory into the proper mountain of Purgatory and the first terrace dedicated to purging the sin of pride. Garlick describes this section as one of his favorites in the entire Purgatorio, praising Dante's ability to provide a rich “liturgy” and spiritual library of resources for reshaping the soul into the beautiful image of Christ. The episode emphasizes Purgatorio as a positive map for sanctification and theosis, contrasting sharply with the Inferno's exposure of sin's ugliness.Guest Introduction and Classical Education InsightsLuke Heintschel shares his personal journey from evangelization and biblical theology into classical education, explaining how he came to see the liberal arts tradition—long cultivated by the Church—as the most effective means of making Catholicism relevant to contemporary young people. He describes his school's mission of forming saints, scholars, and servants through the historic Catholic educational model. Deacon and Heintschel discuss the harmony of faith and reason, noting how reading great books alongside Scripture and theology reveals that the God who grants intellect is the same God who died on the cross. They highlight the value of using Dante's Purgatorio in moral theology classes, where it serves not as a list of rules but as a vivid portrayal of transforming the heart's disordered loves toward their divine end.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ascend and Dante's Purgatorio09:02 Understanding Purgatorio: A Map for Spiritual Growth15:17 Dante's Intercessory Prayer and Its Significance24:13 The Role of Beatrice and the Nature of Beauty34:53 Dante's Political Critique and the State of Italy43:05 The Call to Higher Patriotism53:44 Understanding Virtue: Natural vs. Theological59:35 The Valley of the Kings: Political Failures and Redemption01:15:02 Dante's Heroism and Divine Grace01:19:41 The Three Steps to Purification01:28:10 The Role of Humility in Purgatory01:51:27 The Purpose of Purification01:59:24 Contrappasso: The Nature of Punishment in Purgatory02:04:44 Examples of Pride: Lessons from the Past02:16:26 The Beatitudes and the Path to Humility02:23:47 Eagerness to Ascend: The Transformation of the SoulMoral Theology and the Purpose of PurgatorioThe hosts stress that moral theology is not merely about avoiding sin but about becoming beautiful like Christ through active configuration to His image. Purgatorio offers a lifelong guide for this ascent, presenting prayers, hymns, scriptural examples, and artistic visions tailored to remedy each vice. They critique modern reductions of ethics to a “negative list” of prohibitions, arguing that Dante invites readers to pursue positive virtue and interior change.In Canto 6, the souls in Ante-Purgatory eagerly seek Dante's prayers, illustrating the Catholic doctrine of intercession for the dead as a participation in Christ's merits. Virgil explains that purgation is possible through the resurrection, and the episode includes a brief catechesis on the communion of saints across the Church Militant, Penitent, and Triumphant. Beatrice is presented as an icon of divine beauty and grace, with the...

For our first full episode of Season 10, we are thrilled to welcome Bishop Kevin Kenney, auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. In early 2026, ICE ramped up enforcement operations in the Twin Cities, which led to the killing of two U.S. citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. We talk with Bishop Kenney about the on-the-ground reality and the response from the Church. He talks about the source of resiliency among the people of Minnesota and the importance of the faith community staying strong and united amidst a climate of fear.Brian and Joe share examples of how faith comes before fear and how it provides comfort and hope in the face of sadness and despair. Brian shares the story of visiting an undocumented family. Alexa, a 14-year-old girl, started quoting the Beatitudes, and Brian asked her which one spoke the most to her in this moment. She gave a tragic but heartfelt response. Joe shares the story of a detained father, Mateo, who was distraught knowing that his son was preparing for heart surgery, since he could not be by his side. Amid his feelings of helplessness, he knew there was at least one thing he could do. Listen to the episode to hear the full stories.

Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount is recorded in Matthew chapters 5-7. In it, we find the Beatitudes, topics on the disciples and the world, personal relationships, giving to the poor and prayers, judging others, the Golden Rule, the narrow and wide gate, a tree and its fruit, and the two foundations. Download our Free App:https://get.theapp.co/hghqPodcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/faithlife-christian-ministries/id1606442323Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/faithlifecmInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/faithlifecm?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==X:https://x.com/faithlifecmTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@faithlifecm?_t=ZT-8wIjieGeyOk&_r=1Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/faithlife-christian-ministries-82ab77191/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@FaithLifeChristianMinistriesWebsite:https://faithlifecm.comDonate: https://subsplash.com/u/faithlifechristianminist/giveTable Talk with Yvette Gallinar:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/yvette_gallinar/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/yvettegallinarTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@tabletalkwithyvette?_t=ZT-8wIjgUR1eJ8&_r=1Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/table-talk-with-yvette-gallinar/id1729036339#worry #fear #jesus

Most people who talk about the Bible are pretty sure they know what it is they're talking about. But do they? Do you? How sure are you that when you say "the Bible" you're talking about the same thing as the person next to you? Today, we're diving into the surprisingly broad category of books that all bear the name "Bible". We'll explore who believes which canon, and why certain texts made certain cuts, while others were excluded. You'll never look at your Bible the same! Then... Woof. When Trump's Department of Homeland Security decides to quote Jesus in a recruitment video, you KNOW we're going to talk about it! And when they quote the Beatitudes? Something is seriously out of whack. Maybe DHS is taking on a new role, really trying to promote peace? But let's face it: probably not. ---- For early access to an ad-free version of every episode of Data Over Dogma, exclusive content, and the opportunity to support our work, please consider becoming a monthly patron at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/DataOverDogma⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠      Follow us on the various social media places: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/DataOverDogmaPod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.twitter.com/data_over_dogma⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Have you ordered Dan McClellan's New York Times bestselling book ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Bible Says So⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ yet??? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many people (including me) think that the most powerful words ever spoken were those of Jesus Christ in what is known as The Sermon on the Mount. Today we begin a new series looking at the opening verses of this sermon called the Beatitudes.Join me for today's Daily Word & Prayer to discover Jesus' upside-down description of a truly good life.Scripture Used in Today's MessageMatthew 5:1-12To find Tom on Instagram, Facebook, TiKTok, and elsewhere, go to linktr.ee/tomthepreacher

No Excuses | Following God Without Compromise In this Sunday morning message, we are challenged to live with total allegiance to Jesus Christ, refusing to drift, compromise, or make excuses in a culture that increasingly resists biblical truth. The sermon opens with Jesus' words from the Beatitudes and John 15, where He clearly teaches that those who follow Him will face persecution, rejection, and misunderstanding. Rather than being surprised by opposition, believers are called to rejoice, knowing that faithfulness brings divine favor and eternal reward. Christianity, the message emphasizes, is not about comfort or popularity — it is about obedience, surrender, and standing for Christ regardless of cost. The message then turns to the powerful Old Testament example of Jephthah. Born into rejection and driven away by his own family, Jephthah had every reason to become bitter, quit on God, or live defeated. Instead, he remained faithful, sought the Lord, and grew in wisdom and knowledge of God's Word. When Israel later faced defeat, the very man they had rejected became the one God raised up as their deliverer. Jephthah's life reveals a central truth: background does not determine destiny — faithfulness does. Though rejected by people, he trusted God completely, gave God credit for every victory, and depended on the Lord rather than his own strength or position. The sermon highlights how Jephthah boldly confronted Israel's enemies with God's truth, demonstrating deep understanding of Scripture and unwavering confidence in God's authority. When the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, God brought overwhelming victory through his obedience. A deeply moving moment follows with Jephthah's vow and his daughter's remarkable devotion to honoring God above personal loss. Their story powerfully mirrors the greater sacrifice of Christ and underscores the cost of true obedience — placing God first no matter the outcome. Throughout the message, believers are repeatedly called to reject self-pity, spiritual drifting, and half-hearted faith. Whether facing persecution, hardship, or temptation, God's people are reminded that excuses weaken faith — but surrender releases God's power. The sermon closes with a stirring reminder of Christ's sacrifice on the cross and a call to “see Him who is invisible” — living by faith rather than by circumstances. Just as God used an outcast like Jephthah to bring deliverance, He can use anyone who chooses faithful obedience. Key Takeaway There are no excuses for half-hearted faith. God honors those who remain faithful through hardship, persecution, and rejection — and He uses surrendered lives to accomplish His purposes.  

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 follwer 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.

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.

Knotbrook Taylor Knotbrook Taylor is originally from England and now lives in Scotland. He has been writing poetry for more than 25 years. His first published collection of poetry, Beatitudes, was launched in 2007 by Blue Salt Publishing. In 2014 he won the Erbacce prize for his collection Ping-Pong in the Rain. Erbacce is a publisher that holds an annual worldwide poetry contest. The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses commissioned Taylor to write a book of Scottish lighthouse poems. It was published in 2010 and he was also the poet in residence for a time at the museum. Here is a quote from the Erbacce website about Knotbrook: “Knotbrook delights in language, it is almost as though he is in love with words and needs to both cherish and almost worship each one.” Rua Reidh Lighthouse, Scotland. Photo by Knotbrook Taylor.

Speaker: Rob BerrethScripture: Matthew 5:10–16Episode Overview:In Matthew 5:10–16, Jesus declares that His people are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. This message explores what that identity means in a culture shaped by Christian influence yet increasingly untethered from Christ Himself. The church's strength has never come from blending in, grasping for power, or retreating in fear. It has come from embodying the Beatitudes—poverty of spirit, mercy, purity, peacemaking—and living distinctly in the world for the glory of the Father.Drawing on insights from The Air We Breathe by Glen Scrivener and historical reflections like Dominion by Tom Holland, this sermon considers how Christian convictions have shaped society—and why remaining faithful to Jesus still matters. When believers stay salty and let their light shine, some will be drawn to glorify the Father. Others may resist. Yet Christ's kingdom advances, and He promises blessing to those who are harassed for righteousness' sake.Key Highlights:• Identity before influence – Salt and light flow from the transformed character described in the Beatitudes.• Distinct, not diluted – The church is most potent when it is truly different from the surrounding culture.• Faithful presence – Neither compromise nor retreat fulfills Jesus' call; we are sent into the world without becoming shaped by it.• Wisdom in a polarized age – Christian faithfulness often defies easy political categories, following Christ above all.• Expect both fruit and friction – Some will glorify God because of faithful witness; others may respond with opposition.• Unshakeable hope – The risen Christ builds His church, and no resistance can overturn His kingdom.Call to Action:Ask the Lord to search your life. Where have you grown dim or lost your saltiness? Repent where needed. Re-anchor yourself in Scripture. Pray for courage to speak with grace and truth. Look for one concrete place—at work, at school, in your neighborhood, in your home—where you can shine distinctly for Christ this week. Step forward in humble confidence, trusting that faithfulness in small acts carries eternal weight.Redeemer Church211 Northshore Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226www.redeemernw.org

In Matthew's account of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus shifts from healing bodies to shaping hearts. As crowds begin to gather around His miracles, He pivots, offering the Beatitudes as “preventative medicine” for the soul. In Matthew 5:4, “Blessed are those who mourn,” Jesus promises nearness to the brokenhearted, which is a far more […]

Live Sunday 10:30am

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Out of all the Beatitudes, this might be the hardest for us to grasp. Is there any other verse in the Bible that goes against the ethos of our age more than this one? Our world just doesn't work this way. But Jesus invites us into something more. This week, we talk about meekness and how our world desperately needs followers of Jesus who believe and embody this Beatitude.

What does it really mean to be blessed? In this sermon on Matthew 5:1–3, we dive into the opening of Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount and discover that the "blessed life" has nothing to do with comfort or circumstance. The Greek word makarios points to something far richer — a deep, joyful flourishing that holds steady through anything life brings. We explore what Jesus means by "poor in spirit": not self-pity or low self-esteem, but a clear-eyed awareness of our sin, our limits, and our complete dependence on God. And we look at the stunning promise attached to it — that those who come to God this way receive nothing less than life in his kingdom. Whether you're new to the Sermon on the Mount or have read it a hundred times, this message will challenge you to examine where you're placing your confidence — and what it might look like to hold your life more openly before God.

The sermon presents a transformative exploration of the Beatitudes, focusing on the path of spiritual hunger and thirst for righteousness as a source of lasting joy and fulfillment. Drawing from Matthew 5:6, it emphasizes that true happiness comes not from worldly pursuits like wealth, fame, or entertainment—often described as 'broken cisterns' that cannot satisfy—but from a deep, personal longing for God's moral and spiritual integrity. The preacher contrasts the emptiness of materialism with the abundant life found in Christ, illustrating how righteousness extends beyond personal morality to include a desire for justice and virtue in society, as seen in biblical examples like Noah and Abraham. The message calls believers to pursue God with wholehearted devotion, trusting that He will satisfy the deepest longings of the soul, and to live out this righteousness through mercy—forgiving others and actively serving those in need, reflecting Christ's own character. Ultimately, the sermon affirms that those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled, and those who show mercy will receive it, as God's provision is sufficient and eternal.

Send a text we slow down over Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Jesus isn't blessing peace-lovers or peace-keepers—He's blessing peace-makers: people who do the costly work of moving relationships, communities, and even enemies toward God's shalom (wholeness, justice, and restored right-order). We explore the original language, why this was a radical statement under an empire that claimed “peace” through dominance, and how peacemaking is often cross-shaped: truth without contempt, accountability without revenge, boundaries without hatred. In a tribalized, algorithm-driven world that profits from conflict, this episode offers practical tools to become un-manipulable disciples—people who pursue repair, protect the vulnerable, and carry the family resemblance of the Father. Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia

Enter into the heart of Christ through the Beatitudes from the Gospel of Matthew (5:3–12).In this peaceful, follow-along prayer, we slowly meditate on each Beatitude — asking the Lord to form in us a spirit of humility, mercy, purity, and courage. Set to calming instrumental music, this video is designed to help you:• Begin or end your day in quiet reflection• Pray slowly through the words of Jesus• Invite deeper conversion of heart• Rest in God's promises of eternal happinessThe Beatitudes reveal the path to true blessedness — not worldly success, but holiness. As you pray, ask the Holy Spirit to shape your heart according to Christ.Prayer Focus:“Blessed are the poor in spirit…Blessed are the merciful…Blessed are the pure in heart…”May these sacred words reorder our desires and lead us closer to the Kingdom of Heaven.Subscribe to RosaryMindedFor daily Rosary prayers, Divine Mercy Chaplet, Morning & Evening Prayer, and Catholic meditations rooted in Scripture and Tradition.Pray with us. Grow with us. Walk toward Heaven together.#Beatitudes #CatholicPrayer #SermonOnTheMount #ChristianMeditation #RosaryMinded #DailyPrayer #matthew5 Credits:Music: Eleven LabsImages: Canvas

Submitting to government authorities, Mennonites, self justification from great evils and more on Called to Communion with Dr. David Anders.

Speaker: Rob BerrethScripture: Matthew 5:1–6Episode Overview:In this sermon on Matthew 5:1–6, we enter the opening words of the Beatitudes and discover a pathway that begins with spiritual poverty and leads to deep, lasting joy. Jesus declares that the kingdom belongs not to the self-sufficient, but to those who know their need. From being poor in spirit to mourning sin, from meekness to a hunger for righteousness, Christ reveals both the pardon He freely gives and the progress He graciously produces. This message invites us to receive the riches of Christ and to walk in the transforming work of His Spirit.Key Highlights:• Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit (Matthew 5:3)The kingdom is given—not earned. Spiritual bankruptcy becomes the doorway to divine abundance. Jesus offers Himself as the righteousness we lack.• Blessed Are Those Who Mourn (Matthew 5:4)Honest grief over sin is not despair but the beginning of comfort. God meets repentant hearts not with condemnation, but with compassion.• Blessed Are the Meek (Matthew 5:5)Meekness is strength under God's direction. Those who are humbled by grace become teachable, responsive, and ready to inherit what God promises.• Blessed Are Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness (Matthew 5:6)The Christian life is not only about being pardoned but about longing to grow. Christ satisfies those who desire to become more like Him.• Pardon and ProgressJesus does not merely forgive—He forms. The One who removes our burden also reshapes our hearts.Call to Action:Take time this week to sit quietly before the Lord. Ask Him to show you where you need to acknowledge spiritual poverty, where you need to grieve sin honestly, and where He is inviting you to hunger for greater righteousness. Don't try to fix everything at once. Let the Spirit gently direct you toward one area where growth is needed. Receive Christ's grace there—and walk forward in obedience, trusting that the One who pardons also empowers.Redeemer Church211 Northshore Dr. Bellingham, WA 98226www.redeemernw.org

Clinton Manley | For many today, to be “blessed” is little more than a cliché. But ancient hearers knew that “blessing” from Jesus's mouth meant one thing: unshakable joy.

Join us as Pastor Ben Ortize continues in the The Beatitudes in Matthew 5:8.

Are you pursuing happiness—or the kind of blessing that can't be shaken? In this opening message of Matthew: Mountain to Mountain, Jesus ascends the mountain—not to give a new law, but to announce a blessing that changes everything. Through the Beatitudes, we discover that “blessed” doesn't mean comfortable, successful, or problem-free—it means anchored in the gospel, filled with a joy that circumstances can't steal. Jesus invites us to stop chasing temporary happiness and instead receive the eternal blessing that comes from knowing Him. Are you living your best life—or the blessed life only Jesus can give?

Trump casually posted a racist video and the White House essentially told Americans to calm down. Convicted felons are being treated better than rounded-up immigrants in detention centers. And the evangelicals' favorite president doesn't seem to understand the meaning of the word, prayer. Still, Republicans on The Hill are seeing the broad unpopularity of ICE's behavior in Minnesota and may be starting to distance themselves from the policies they funded. Plus, a simple measure beyond masks that could really rein in ICE, the extensive structural damage at the DOJ, trads keep rationalizing cruelty, and why is SCOTUS taking so long on the tariffs case? Also, Tim puts David in the squirm chair with a Kid Rock v. Bad Bunny lyrics quiz. David French joins Tim Miller for the Super Bowl weekend pod.show notes: David on ending immunity for federal agents Chris Geidner on government lawyer Julie Le David's tweet about "tradlife" Tim, Sam, and Will Sommer on Elijah Schaefer JVL on the Beatitudes in "The Triad" David's recent piece on liberalism The NYT on Katie Britt Tim's playlist Tickets are now on sale for our LIVE shows in Dallas on March 18 and in Austin on March 19. Plus, a small number of seats are still available for our second show in Minneapolis on February 18. https://www.thebulwark.com/p/bulwark-events