Podcasts about because christ

Because Christ died and rose again, we who are united to Him by faith will also rise from the grave to be in the presence of God.

Because Christ is our Lord and the giver of all good things, we must not only reject the self-centered life of the thief, but must also embrace the self-giving generosity of Christ. I. God Commanded His Old Covenant People Israel Not to Steal from One Another! Ex 20:15 II. God is the One Who Gives What We Need to Glorify and Enjoy Him! Jas 1:17; 1 Tim 6:17; III. God Calls us as Christians to a Stewardship of Christ-like Generosity with our things Eph 4:28

As the cross draws near, Jesus gives one of His final public appeals: "Believe in the light, that you may become sons of light." In these urgent verses, we hear Christ's tender but solemn call—don't delay, come into the light while it still shines! We'll consider who the Son of Man is, why the cross was necessary, and how the light of the Gospel still drives out darkness today. Because Christ was lifted up, you don't have to remain in the shadows.

Carl and Todd welcome Reverend David McKay to discuss his new book, A Spiritual Checkup for a Healthy Life with Christ. With over four decades of pastoral experience, David shares insights on spiritual health, the importance of living out our faith, and the role of the church in our spiritual journeys. But why does David advocate a spiritual checkup for believers? Because Christ has done everything for us, he is the foundation of our new life, we have been given a new life that now must be lived out; sometimes said, we are to become what we are. We are righteous in Christ…that needs to be worked out in daily, godly living and there's always progress to be made in our likeness to Christ. – David McKay Tune in for a thoughtful conversation that emphasizes the balance between grace and the call to live a godly life. This book is a really excellent tool for assessing the condition of your heart. – Carl Trueman We are pleased to offer three copies of David McKay's book, A Spiritual Checkup for a Healthy Life with Christ, to our listeners, thanks to the generosity of Crown & Covenant. Enter here for the opportunity to win. Sponsor link: https://www.logos.com/mos

Introduction: What is fasting? – Abstaining from food (and/or other things) for measured periods of time in order to heighten my hunger for the things of God. What Am I Really Hungry For? (Matthew 6:16–18) Am I hungry for ATTENTION ... (Matt 6:16) ...or am I hungry for GOD? (Matt 6:17–18) Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead Matthew 6:16-18What was your big take-away from this passage / message?What is the purpose of fasting? Why do you think that fasting isn't more common in the American church?How would you describe the spiritual benefit of fasting to a believer who has never done it?How would you respond to someone who says “Due to my health issues, not eating is impossible for me.”?BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Open your bibles to Matthew chapter 6.Are you there?Look, verse 1, "This is the greatest sermon ever preached,and here Jesus is talking about the heart of religion."And this is how this whole section starts."Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people.In order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven."Jesus says, "Beware of trying to impress people with your religious acts.Beware of doing your church stuff in a way that you want people's attention."And specifically, Jesus goes after three things here.He goes after giving and praying and fasting.And you know, anytime that I teach or preach about fasting,I always feel like I'm playing from behind.What I mean is people recognize giving and prayingas normal religious things that God's people do.Those are kind of no-brainers.But fasting?Well, look at verse 16.Look at the first phrase. Jesus says, "And when you fast..."Stop there. "When you fast..."You know what that phrase tells me?That phrase tells me that fasting is just as expected as giving.Fasting is just as expected as praying.Let's bow our heads. I'm going to ask that you would please pray for me to be faithful, to communicate.A passage and a concept that's very simple and very hard at the same time.Pray for me and I will pray for you that our hearts would be open to receive what God wants to tell us today.Transform us, Father, by the power of Your Word.We pray in Jesus' name. Amen.Let's talk about fasting, shall we?Our culture is obsessed with food, have you noticed?Turn on the TV.If the commercial is not about a pharmaceutical, what's the commercial about?Food, right?Food. Get on social media.You'll find somebody took a picture of their hamburger.Right? We're obsessed with it.You know the thing that always fascinates me though?These eating contests. Have you ever seen those eating contests?You know the most famous one?Like the hot dog eating contests.How many people here show of hands have been in a hot dog eating contests?Nobody.They're like, "Well, Pastor Jeff, have you ever been in an eating contest?"Yeah.And I won.It was eating a pie as fast as you can, hands free.And I won.I won a shop vac.That is a true story.And I needed that shop vac to clean up when I got sickafter eating a pie that fast without my hands.There's all kinds of eating contests.A taco eating contest. I think I could win that too.Wings. How about this one?An oyster eating contest.How many people would be up for that?A couple of you would.All right, Pastor Taylor, game on.Or here's an eating contest.I have no idea what this even is.Slug burger. A slug burger eating contest.Does anybody know what a slug burger is?Anybody?All right.We'll have to Google that one later. Not now, later.But I'm always fascinated by these eating contests.This one caught my eye.There was one eating contest.It was eating a 72-ounce steak.Do you know how much a 72-ounce steak is?That's 4.5 pounds of steak.And I read of this woman.A 120-pound woman ate the 72-ounce steak.And then she ate another one.And then she ate a third in 20 minutes.And with that, she also ate three baked potatoes,three shrimp cocktails, three salads,and three buttered rolls in 20 minutes.I read that.I'm like, you put butter on the rolls?Doesn't that seem excessive?But there's TV shows all about food.Like, you see these shows.They have all these shows about cake.Have you seen this?And it's not just like, what's the best tasting cake?It's like, well, I made a cake that looks like a footballor whatever.And then there's these shows where they travel all over theworld and they eat these exotic foods from all over the world.And we're sitting in our TVs watching people eat.And then you turn the channel.And on the other channel is a show called My 600-Pound Life.We're obsessed with food.And we live in a culture where we are constantly, constantlytaught that life is about consuming.But how much talk is there really about refusing consumption?So with that horrible backdrop, we're going to talk about fastingbecause this is what the Word of God addresses.So what is fasting?We have a definition here.What is fasting?Fasting is abstaining from food and/or other things.We'll explain that in a minute.Extaining from food and/or other things for measured periods oftime in order to heighten my hunger for the things of God.That's fasting.Fasting measured periods of time in order to heighten my hunger for the things of God.You see, Jesus, when He talks about giving, praying, and fasting, that's reallythree categories of things.Giving has to do with what you do with others.And praying is what you do with God.And fasting is what you do with yourself.Right?So there's different kinds of fasting.There's a normal fast that's just no food.Right?There's a partial fast where you only have maybe vegetables and juice.And there's an absolute fast where you have absolutely nothing.But you can and should also fast from other things.And we'll talk about that in a moment.But primarily, primarily, biblically, fasting is about food.Well, speaking of biblically, fasting is mentioned more than 77 times in the Old Testamentand the New Testament.It is almost always connected with prayer.You see fasting throughout the Bible, different occasions, like for example, repentance.I'm guilty of this sin.I need to turn from this sin.I'm going to fast and I'm going to pray in my repentance.In the same line of thinking, fasting accompanies mourning over sin.My personal sin, the sins of our culture, our country, we should be mourning.And part of mourning is fasting and praying.You see fasting in the Bible is seeking God at critical times.We need to fast because I really need to seek the Lord right now.Think Jesus in the wilderness.Right?Think the early church in the book of Acts.Now when you talk about fasting, you always have the person that comes along and says,"Well, you know, Pastor Jeff, fasting isn't explicitly commanded in the New Testament."And that's absolutely true.But something we can't get around is this.Jesus obviously assumed that we would fast.I mean right here, you're going to see in this passage today, twice He says, "When you fast."He says it again in Matthew chapter 9 and verse 15.He's assuming that His people would fast.Oh, and then as I said, by the way, the early church did.They fasted.Fasting though, to clarify our definition here, we're going to make sure we understandwhat it's not.Fasting is not self-punishment.Okay?It's not self-punishment.Fasting isn't like, "I've sinned.I've messed up."You know what?I'm not going to eat because I don't deserve to eat.And like you're sort of punishing yourself.That's not what fasting is about.It's not self-punishment.But fasting also is not self-serving.Meaning somebody could walk away from this service going, "Oh, you know, Pastor Jeff wastalking about fasting and I could stand to lose a couple of pounds.So I'll fast."That's not what it's about.Fasting also is not a bargaining chip.Like I need something from God.Oh, okay.I'll fast and then God will have to give me what I want.Talk more about that in a minute.Fasting is not something that makes you holy.All right?Listen, fasting is not even about getting God's attention.Understand that.Fasting is not, "Look!Look at me, God!I haven't eaten!Look at me!Look at me!"No, that's not what it's about.Fasting isn't about me trying to get God's attention.God noticed me.Fasting is about me noticing God.You see the difference?Fasting doesn't make your prayer more powerful.Fasting makes you more focused.Fasting is what I do when I need my entire concentration, all of my being.Every cell in my body focused on God.That's what fasting is.Because Christ's follower, listen, I know, I know, you want to focus on God.You do.But the problem is sometimes, if we're honest, and we should be, we want to focus on God,but sometimes we want other things more.You're like, "What do I do when what I know I should want is not the thing that I'm goingafter?What do I do?"You fast.Fasting is stopping the feeding of ourselves with other things to focus only on our relationshipwith God.Because here's the reality.Every day, every day of your life, you have the capacity to only consume so much.The capacity that you have to satisfy yourself is limited.Here's what I mean.Let's let this table here, this tabletop, let's let this represent you.Let this table represent you, your heart, your spirit.You realize every day of your life, you are filling yourself up with stuff.Now obviously as we talk about fasting, one of the things that we fill up, we satisfy ourselveswith is food, right?This isn't just life.This is mighty life, cereal.That's how we roll in our house.We fill ourselves up with food.I need to tell Aaron we need to get more pretzels.But we fill ourselves up.We're filling ourselves up.But it's not even just food, right?Think of how much stuff we fill ourselves with every day.For some of us, maybe it's sports.Like I'm on the church softball team, right?That's one of the things that I'm filling myself up with.I'm consuming myself with every day.Maybe it's not even just eating the food.Maybe it's preparing the food.So we have our magazine with the latest recipes and we're filling ourselves up with this stuff.Maybe some of us, we like to grow our food in the garden.We have our seeds here, right?But maybe we're filling ourselves up with that.What else are we filling our hearts, our minds, our souls with?For some of us, we're like, "Well, I've got to do my recreational reading, right?So I've got to make sure I get that into me."And oh, here's more seeds.And for some of us, it's like, "Well, I like to paint, so I've got to take time out."That's something that I fill myself up with, a hobby that I do.For some of us, it's exercise.You've got to make sure you get your reps in, right?Right, Dr. Andrew?We've got to make sure that we get our exercise in.That's something else.This is 6.6 pounds.That's why I'm so ripped.The first service last one, I said that.Can you believe those jerks?For some of us, you're on the golf course, right?That's something that we fill ourselves with, right?For some of us, maybe you're a gamer.You spend time during the day playing your video games.It's something you're consuming.I don't mean to show off, but this is Pac-Man from PlayStation 2.Not the old PlayStation.This is PlayStation 2.That's cutting edge, right?We fill ourselves up.Do you see where we're going with this?We're constantly filling ourselves.Oh, and it's not even just that, because we've got to make sure we entertain ourselves, right?With movies.This is a DVD.I had to explain to the first service what a DVD was.Before streaming, this is a shiny circle that you stick in a machine that plays a movie.This particular one was a gift.It's called The Masked Saint.It's about a pastor who becomes a pro wrestler.Have you ever heard such a stupid thing?But we've got to get our intake of entertainment, right?Do you see how much stuff we're taking in?Do you see?That's not it.How much time do we spend on our computers?We've got to get that in, don't we?Am I forgetting anything?Oh, yeah.How about this little guy?How much time a day do we spend filling ourselves with content from this?Do you see the point over the course of a day how much are you filling yourself with?Your body, your mind, your belly, your spirit, you're constantly, constantly, constantly,constantly consuming.Now, we're going to let this glass cross represent our walk with Jesus.This represents your relationship with Jesus Christ, your personal walk with Him.Now, do you see a problem?We have to...Well, that's...You see a problem?Now we're so full of stuff that we don't have any room left for the thing that really matters.And that's our walk with the Lord.So do you see the purpose of fasting?You know, if fasting does...Fasting just...Fasting takes everything off the table and says the only thing that I'm going to focuson is my walk with Christ.The only thing that my heart, my mind, my attention is getting is my personal walk withthe Lord.That's the purpose of fasting.So on your outline, I want you to draw a couple of things down here.The question is, what am I really hungry for?What am I really hungry for?Number one, am I hungry for attention?Am I hungry for attention?Right?Look at verse 16.Jesus says, "And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they just figuretheir faces that they're fasting may be seen by others.Truly I say to you, they have received their reward."Am I hungry for attention?Jesus calls out to Pharisees.He says, "When they fast, they look gloomy.They disfigure their faces."You know the Pharisees in Jesus, they fasted twice a week.Like, why did they do that?Well, that wasn't commanded in the Old Testament.Like, well, why did they do that?Jesus tells us why they did that.They were putting on a show.That's why.He tells us that they may be seen by others.Actually, the Pharisees in Jesus, they would literally put ashes over their eyes becausethey were all in on the performance.They wanted to make sure that people knew.And when people knew that they were fasting, they were like, "Oh, you don't look so good.What's going on?Well, I'm fasting."You're fasting?Wow.Wow, you are really, you're a really devoted believer.You're a really religious person.Wow.Wow.And that little pat on the back there, that little, as Pastor Taylor calls it, the attaboy, that little thing, Jesus goes, "There's your reward."Have fun with that.It's like giving.It's like praying.We can become tempted to fast with the wrong motive.See, the fasting is supposed to be about seeking God, not human applause.And look, let's just be real.We love the attention.There is something deep down in every one of us that loves the attention, and that'sthe problem with hypocrisy.The problem with hypocrisy is it works.I mean, we've all been there.Someone makes a comment about how devoted we are.Someone sees how religious we must be, and we start to feel pretty good about ourselves.Jesus says, "Beware."Beware.Like, well, what about corporate fasting?I mean, others have to know about that, right?Well, yeah, there's New Testament examples of corporate fasting, Acts chapter 13, Actschapter 14.Now look, here's the thing with that.It's not about whether or not other people know.It's about whether or not you want them to know.See the difference?There's a difference between being seen fasting and fasting in order to be seen.That's how it is with corporate fasting.That's how it is with private fasting.When I fast, I tell Aaron, "Why?"Not because I want her applause, but because she feeds us, right?Oh, and by the way, it'd be a pretty impossible thing for me to hide from her, right?She's going to notice if I go days without eating.The point Jesus is driving us to is the motives.The motives.It's a hard issue.It's the same as giving, and it's the same as praying.It's the same point if you're looking for praises from man, don't look for anything from God.So what am I really hungry for?Am I hungry for attention?Or am I hungry for God?According to verses 17 and 18, Jesus said, "But when you fast, anoint your head and washyour face that your fasting may not be seen by others, but by your Father who is in secretand your Father who sees in secret will reward you."So here Jesus is saying, "Look, on the other hand, instead of making yourself look likeyou're dying, anoint your head and wash your face."Oh, by the way, it goes without saying, right?You don't make that a show, right?Like I shouldn't come to church and catch you in the men's room at the sink washing yourface.Like, "Joe, why are you washing your face?"Oh, I'm fasting and being obedient to our Lord.Like you could make that a show.Obvious point, right?Jesus says don't leave any physical clues that you're fasting.It's like giving, it's like praying, make it a secret, make it between you and God.And He sees and He rewards according to Jesus.He rewards.Listen, reward does not mean, reward does not mean that God owes you one now.Like look, God, I starved myself for you.I sacrificed eating for you, God.No, you have to do what I want.Look, God never works like that.Do you realize anything at all that we have from God is grace?It's all grace.Your salvation in Christ, believing that Jesus died for your sins, believing He rose to giveyou eternal life.If you've received Him, if you are saved, it is only by the grace of God that you aresaved.The gift of the Holy Spirit, God indwelling His people.It's a gift.It's grace.You know, God does not run a swap meet.To say, you do for me, then I do for you.That's not how it works.And that's not how it works with fasting.So like, what is the reward?The reward is connecting with God.The reward is connecting with God because you're seeking Him in a very deliberate way.You have taken off anything else that could distract you because you want to focus solelyon your relationship with Him.And someone would say, "Okay, okay, okay, okay, okay, okay, time out."You're telling me that if I choose not to eat or I choose to abstain from other thingsand instead use that appetite and use that time to seek the Lord, you're telling me thatif I do that, that something spiritual will happen.Yeah.Yeah, that's exactly what I'm telling you.Look, I know I could never fully explain it.And it's hard to understand, but you will understand it if you do it.If you do it for the right reason.That's what I want to encourage you.I'm sure there are people here that have never fasted for spiritual reasons in their lives.I want to encourage you to try it.Can you just, as a simple act of obedience, as a simple God, this is what your Word said,so I want to respond in obedience.Can you do that?Now look, you can modify.Like maybe you say, "You know what, I've never done this before, but this week I'm goingto take a few days and I'm going to skip lunch."And instead of eating at lunchtime, I'm going to spend that time reading a passage fromGod's Word and praying to God.I'm going to do that instead this week.Can you do that?You can do that.Or maybe you say, "You know what, I've never had an extended fast, but this week I'm goingto spend one day.I'm going to spend just two days with nothing but water, and instead I'm going to seek theLord over something very specific."You can do that.Because look, if you're sitting here going, "Oh, I hear what He's saying, but you knowwhat, I don't know if I could skip a meal.Like I don't know.I don't know if I could go without eating."Well, that might be a commentary on which appetite really controls you.Are you hungry enough for God that you're willing to forego consuming food and/or otherthings to focus solely on seeking Him?Because if you're finding that focusing on your walk with Christ has been difficult.If you're finding that lately you really haven't had much of an appetite for prayer that youknow you should.If you're finding like, "In this chapter of my life right now, this season of my lifethat I'm in, I haven't really been seeking the Lord as I know He calls me to."If any of these describe you, I want to encourage you to use this gift that God has given andredirect your appetite.This is the heart of religion.God wants your heart.And true religion comes from a heart that wants God.I'm sure some of you have picked up on this, which you realized for the last three weeksbetween Pastor Taylor and I.We've basically preached the exact same sermon three times.Why?Because our goal is to represent the text and really it's the exact same formula inall three things that the Lord calls us to.It's the same sermon.Here it is.If you give, pray, or fast in order to be seen by others, you're going to miss God's reward.But if you do them in secret, God sees in secret and He will reward you.Oh, and there are rewards for a faith that says, "I'm not looking for man's applause.All I'm looking for is God's reward."And with fasting, God is the reward.Let's pray.Father in heaven, we confess before you as a church that we don't seek you as we shouldtoo often.The Father, we've allowed other things to crowd our hearts and our minds and our bellies.We very diligently distract ourselves from what's most important.So Father, I pray that we would be hit with, for some of us it's an old concept that weneed renewed.And for some I'm sure this is a brand new concept.Father, let us take a serious and honest and hard look at your word and that we would fastas our Lord assumed that we would, but with motives that honor you.Father put it in our hearts and minds.Make us feel how desperately we need you.Let us match that desperation with how hard we seek after you.We pray in Jesus' name.

Text: Romans 8:1-11   Freedom From Slavery (v.2) Former law, Mosaic law, was never meant to save us. Former law was meant to point to our need for a savior. Freedom From Condemnation (v.3) God knew the former law was unable to save us. In response, He sent His Son to us to do what the law could not do. Freedom From Being Controlled (v.4) Because Christ is in us and we are in Christ, all of God's requirements are fulfilled in us. We must live out who we are in Christ, not by doing good works in itself, but, by focusing on what God has done. Freedom From Defeat (v.5-8) Paul is comparing the saved and the unsaved. One lives for the flesh and the other The Spirit. Living a life for the flesh IS death. If you are unsaved, you are not battling sin. If you are fleshly, then you are trying to please yourself, not God.

     Sometime in eternity past, God the Father sent God the Son into the world to fulfill a divine mission. God's Word tells us, “The Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world” (1 John 4:14). This was the great mission: to bring salvation to everyone. This act of God was done in love, as it is written, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16), and “He loved us and sent His Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 4:10). The Son agreed with the Father, saying, “I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 6:38), and “The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). When God the Son came into the world and took upon Himself humanity, He executed His mission flawlessly.      The divine mission began in time and space nearly two thousand years ago when God the Son took upon Himself humanity. The writer to the Hebrews cites the words of God the Son as He was about to enter the world, saying, “Therefore, when He comes into the world, He says [to God the Father], ‘Sacrifice and offering You have not desired, but a body You have prepared for Me'” (Heb 10:5). The third Person of the Trinity, God the Holy Spirit, facilitated the mission by bringing about the hypostatic union within the womb of the virgin Mary (Isa 7:14; Luke 1:30-35; Gal 4:4). The angel Gabriel told Mary, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God” (Luke 1:35). At the moment of conception in the womb of the virgin Mary, undiminished deity was combined forever with perfect humanity. Eventually, Jesus was born, and God “became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). The apostle Paul tells us, “For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form” (Col 2:9).      God's Word informs us that Jesus was a Jew, born a son of Abraham, in the line of David (Matt 1:1), the promised Messiah (Matt 1:17). Jesus grew in wisdom (Luke 2:40, 52) and lived a perfectly righteous life before God and man. The record of Scripture is that Jesus “knew no sin” (2 Cor 5:21), was “without sin” (Heb 4:15), “committed no sin” (1 Pet 2:22), and “in Him there is no sin” (1 John 3:5). In His humanity, Jesus walked in perfect conformity to God the Father's holy character and divine revelation. This is important, for Jesus' sinless life qualified Him to go to the cross and pay the ransom price for our sins (Mark 10:45).      When the divinely appointed time came for Jesus to go to the cross (John 12:23; 13:1), He went willingly (Isa 53:10; John 10:18). Just hours before the crucifixion, Jesus said to His Father, “I glorified You on the earth, having accomplished the work which You have given Me to do” (John 17:4). Then He went to the cross and “offered Himself without blemish to God” (Heb 9:14), giving “His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Jesus paid our sin debt by means of His “precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ” (1 Pet 1:19). While on the cross, “Christ died for our sins” (1 Cor 15:3), and He died in our place, “the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God” (1 Pet 3:18; cf. Rom 5:8).      Jesus' death on the cross was a one-time event, as He “offered one sacrifice for sins for all time” (Heb 10:12). After Jesus paid for all our sins, “He said, ‘It is finished!' And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit” (John 19:30). Jesus' death on the cross satisfied every righteous demand of God the Father concerning the payment for our sins (Rom 3:25), for “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2). Jesus paid the price for all our sins. There's nothing more to pay. After Jesus died, He was placed in a grave and was resurrected to life on the third day (Acts 2:23-24; 4:10; 10:40; 1 Cor 15:3-4), never to die again (Rom 6:9). Because Christ died for everyone (John 3:16; Heb 2:9; 1 John 2:2), everyone is savable. The Bible tells us that God has brought “salvation to all men” (Tit 2:11), that He “desires all men to be saved” (1 Tim 2:4), and is “not wishing for any to perish” (2 Pet 3:9).      Once we understand who Jesus is, as God in the flesh (John 1:1, 14), and what He has accomplished for us on the cross—having died for our sins, was buried, and raised again on the third day (1 Cor 15:3-4)—we can then exercise our faith by trusting in Him as our Savior (John 3:16; 20:31). This is the Jesus of Scripture and history, and not a fake Jesus like those taught by Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, or one we create in our imagination. To receive salvation, the unbeliever is told to “believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31a). Jesus is the object of our faith. To believe in Christ as our Savior means we trust Him to accomplish for us what we cannot accomplish ourselves: eternal salvation from the lake of fire.      Faith in Christ is the only condition for salvation. Faith does not save; Christ saves. Faith is merely the instrument by which we receive the free gift of God, which is eternal life. Though the gift was very expensive for the Lord, it is offered totally free to us, for “the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom 6:23). And it is “by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph 2:8-9). Only the empty hand of faith accepts the gift. It offers nothing but is open to receive that which is offered by another. God's gift is available to everyone, for “whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16), and “he who believes has eternal life” (John 6:47). No payment is required from us to receive it (Rom 4:4-5), and no precondition of good works is necessary before, during, or after salvation.      The only sin that keeps a person out of heaven is the sin of unbelief, the individual choice NOT to trust in Jesus as one's Savior. The one who rejects Jesus as Savior is judged by God on the sole ground that “he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God” (John 3:18). These are the ones who “are always resisting the Holy Spirit” (Acts 7:51; cf. John 16:8), who “do not believe” in Jesus as their Savior (John 16:9), and “are unwilling to come” to Him so that they “may have life” (John 5:40). Those who willingly reject Christ as Savior will, after death, experience eternal separation and punishment away from God for all eternity, for “if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire” (Rev 20:15). This need not happen. Hell is avoidable for the one who trusts in Christ as Savior, for “whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Salvation is a free gift from God (Rom 3:24; 6:23), offered by grace alone (Eph 2:8-9), through faith alone (Rom 3:28; Gal 2:16; 3:26; 2 Tim 3:15), in Christ alone (John 14:6; Acts 4:12), totally apart from human works (Rom 4:5; Eph 2:8-9; Tit 3:5). For lost sinners, the matter is simple: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).      Once we have trusted in Christ for salvation, we receive forgiveness of sins (Acts 10:43; Eph 1:7), the gift of righteousness (Rom 5:17; Phil 3:9), eternal life (John 3:16; 10:28), and many other blessings (Eph 1:3). And having entered into a relationship with God through Christ (John 1:12; Gal 3:26), we are then called to a life of holiness and righteousness (1 Pet 1:15-16), as we learn His Word (2 Tim 2:15; 3:16-17; 1 Pet 2:2; 2 Pet 3:18), walk by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38), and advance to spiritual maturity (Heb 6:1). This new walk with God will honor Him and edify others (Eph 4:1-2; 5:1-2).      Our forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and many wonderful blessings from God are all made possible because God the Son came down to us and accomplished what we cannot: our salvation. For this, we praise God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit for their work of salvation, for “having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom 5:1). Amen. Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div., B.Sc.

June 21, 2025Today's Reading: Introit for Pentecost 2 - Psalm 71:20-24; antiphon: Psalm 71:3Daily Lectionary: Proverbs 24:1-22; John 19:1-22“You who have made me see many troubles and calamities will revive me again; from the depths of the earth you will bring me up again.” (Psalm 71:20)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. The psalmist sees something beautiful. God caused him to see troubles. Thanks for the calamities, Jesus! I will sing praises to you with the lyre. It's hard to pray that without a sarcastic tone of voice. But it's at least honest. If God is in control of all things, that includes the disasters. The stuff we tend to blame on others. They who sought to do me hurt have been put to shame. Because God did a way better job at it. He chastises in a way that absolutely gets my attention. It leaves all my idols in shambles around me, and every hope I've built, not in Him, crumbled to dust. And that's beautiful, too, even if I hate it. The psalmist, in great faith, finds joy in a God who works all things for good, even the painful ones. Because it doesn't stop with the hurt, the trouble, the tragedy, or the death. There's a resurrection. You can know it for sure. Jesus did it first. He willingly bore the troubles and calamities. He willingly bore the cross. He did it for you, to save you. He rose from the grave and, in doing so, has proved that death is no longer permanent. Because Christ is risen, you will rise. It's beautiful because now we don't need to run anymore. The way is forward, never away. Through the tomb and out again. Fear not the terrors of the world. That's way better than spending your whole life running from bad things.  They who sought to do me hurt have been put to shame because you can't stay dead. You can't stay hurt. The Lord, who has made me see many troubles and calamities, will revive me again. God brings about some things we hate. We're still allowed to hate them at the end of the psalm. But now we also have the victory, and so also the character of God. He doesn't bring trouble in wrath. That's finished on the cross. What He does to you is never arbitrary; the cross shows His love for you. Now, even trouble bears a promise. More than just an excuse as to why it happened, God leaves you with a present victory over it. From the depths of the earth, you will bring me up again. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The will of God is always best And shall be done forever; And they who trust in Him are blest; He will forsake them never. He helps indeed In time of need; He chastens with forbearing. They who depend On God, their friend, Shall not be left despairing. (LSB 758:1)- Rev. Harrison Goodman, Higher Things Executive Director of Mission and Theology.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.In Clarifying the Great Commission, Rev. Daniel Christian Voth identifies common omissions from our collective understanding of Jesus' farewell discourse—omissions that turn Christ's promises of forgiveness, life, and salvation into a legalistic command. Come and discover a richer understanding of The Great Commission.

Being intentional seems to be a consistent hallmark of followers of Christ. Because Christ is our best example of intentionality. Intentionality is defined as being deliberate or purposeful. How about you? How are you working with intentionality today? In the office, with your co-workers, intentionally representing Christ and showing His love and patience to everyone you come in contact with? Most days we may just be unconsciously going through our work day. We invite you to begin today by going before the father and asking Him: "Here's all I have, what do YOU want me to do with it today? What is YOUR priority today, Lord?" And then living that out as we step into our work, and every other place our feet may wander. 

June 14, 2025 Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity - Psalm 16:8-11; antiphon: Liturgical TextDaily Lectionary: Numbers 32:1-6, 16-27; Luke 24:1-27Blessed be the Holy Trinity and the undivided Unity. Let us give glory to him because he has shown his mercy to us.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. The doctrine of the Trinity is not revealed by God simply to confuse or imply that God isn't great at math. It's given that we may know that God draws near to save us. The Father is God, the Son is God, the Holy Spirit is God, and yet there are not three gods, but one God. And now God is not simply a being far away in heaven. Christ is God, who came to earth to die on the cross and conquer death. The Holy Spirit is God, who is present in word and sacrament in your church for you.  “I have set the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”In the doctrine of the Trinity, the creed simply explains the introit. You know where to find God at your right hand. Place it in the font and know you're baptized, and as sure as water is wet, you have put on Christ and are saved (1 Peter 3). Because Christ is risen from the grave, your flesh dwells secure in the resurrection even now. God has promised it belongs to you as sure as you're baptized. You know the path of life. Through the grave and out again. To be at the communion of the saints is to stand shoulder to shoulder with those who have already passed through the veil and know pleasures forevermore. Doctrine is heaven. Life is earth. But God uses His truth to confront the lives we live in sin, error, discord, labor, and sorrow with hope. The Trinity shows mercy to us sinners.  In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Triune God, be Thou our stay; O let us perish never! Cleanse us from our sins, we pray, And grant us life forever. Keep us from the evil one; Uphold our faith most holy, And let us trust Thee solely With humble hearts and lowly. Let us put God's armor on, With all true Christians running Our heav'nly race and shunning The devil's wiles and cunning. Amen, amen! This be done; So sing we, "Alleluia!" O Lord, have mercy on us. (LSB 505:1)- Rev. Harrison Goodman, Higher Things Executive Director of Mission and Theology.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.In Clarifying the Great Commission, Rev. Daniel Christian Voth identifies common omissions from our collective understanding of Jesus' farewell discourse—omissions that turn Christ's promises of forgiveness, life, and salvation into a legalistic command. Come and discover a richer understanding of The Great Commission.

Micah Klutinoty in week 55 of the Behold the Lamb series in John 16:25-33 Through John 16:25-33, we see that Jesus came to restore true peace between God and man—not by removing tribulation, but by overcoming it. Through Jesus, we can know the Father personally, worship Him freely, and find peace even when our faith is tested. Because Christ has overcome the world, we are never alone and can live in unshakable peace by abiding in Him, taking courage, expecting trials, and bringing our anxieties to Him.

Man needs power in his life's problems. There are many sources in the world that advise us on what to do to succeed and overcome life's problems. From psychology books to radio and television talks, and even commercials, all of them offer formulas that they claim can be used to succeed. But the problem with these sources is that none of them gives man power. But Jesus did not come to teach us a formula or sell us sex and make a bunch of promises. No! He came, died, and rose to give us power. Since Christ is alive today, His purpose has not changed. He came to give us abundant life. Because Christ is alive today, His power is at our disposal and you and I can enjoy it.

Main Idea: "Because Christ suffered, died, rose from the dead, and victoriously ascended into heaven to His Father, we have an eternal hope of salvation to persevere in living for Jesus."1. Jesus brings us safely to God2. Jesus proclaimed His victory3. Jesus brings His enemies into subjection to Himself

Because Christ's giving is displayed in our giving, how we give is important. 1. Honorably. (v.16-21) 2. Carefully. (v.22-24) 3. Willingly. (ch.9, v.1-5) How do we know there is a wrong way to give? What is a good motive to give? Gal. 2:10. How much do we trust the handlers of our gifts? 1 Thess 2:5-8. What accreditation must there be for leaders? 1 Cor. 16:1-4.

Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla – May 16, 2025“Seasons in God's Design” – Ecclesiastes 3:1–4 (ESV)Life unfolds in seasons—joy and sorrow, building and breaking, birth and death. Today, Pastor Balla reflects on Ecclesiastes 3:1–4 and the comfort of knowing that every time under heaven is governed by the Lord's perfect wisdom.These verses do not speak of fate, but of divine order. God is not only present in the good times; He is near in seasons of grief and loss. Each moment, whether laughter or mourning, is meaningful because God rules over time and uses each season to accomplish His gracious purpose.In Jesus Christ, the “fullness of time” (Galatians 4:4, ESV) came. He entered our time to redeem it—and us. Because Christ is risen, even the time to die gives way to eternal life.Be encouraged: your season is known and held by the Lord.Like, share, and subscribe for faithful devotions centered in Christ and grounded in Scripture.#Ecclesiastes #SeasonOfLife #DailyDevotion #PastorBalla #LutheranFaith #GodsTiming

Because Christ has taken our sin and given us His righteousness, we have peace with God and freedom to live as His children.

Title: Chains and Afflictions Text: Acts 21:27-36 FCF: We often struggle responding well to slander and persecution for Christ's sake. Prop: Because of the offense of the gospel we will be slandered and reviled, so we must be ready to give a defense for the hope we have in us. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to Acts chapter 21. In a moment we will read beginning in verse 27 from the Legacy Standard Bible. You can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. Last week we saw the powder keg situation that Paul and his 8 gentile companions walked into as they brought a gift for the Jerusalem church from several churches in gentile lands. Tension between Jews and the Romans continues to mount and along with that the pernicious rumor that Paul is anti-Mosaic law and advising new Jewish believers to forsake circumcising their children and the laws and customs of Moses. The Elders wisely advised Paul to demonstrate that he is not against the law of Moses by submitting to purity rituals with 4 other men who are doing so. Paul humbly discarded any liberty he may have assumed and willingly submitted to help ease tensions between Jewish Christians and the non-believing Jews. But we know the future. It has been confirmed by many witnesses. Paul will suffer with chains and afflictions in Jerusalem. Although it was wise advice and although Paul humbly submitted, we know that things will implode quickly. But even in this difficult situation, we will find vital lessons for we who claim Christ and face uncertain days. Please stand with me to give honor to and to focus on the reading of the Word of God. Invocation: Mighty God and Lord of Hosts. You are holy, holy, holy. You have sent the Son to claim Your people for Your Kingdom and You have sent Your Spirit to dwell in us and seal us and preserve us until the Day of Judgment. As You are Alpha and Omega, You have written and decreed the end from the beginning. No one can tell You “no” and no one can slap away Your mighty hand from doing as You please. In these truths Lord, we must rest, especially when we are slandered, maligned, ridiculed, reviled, and persecuted for Your name. Without the truth that all this is according to Your Immutable Will, we would surely flounder and fall. Impress upon us, Your Children, the greater truth that when these days of trouble come upon us, we must rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for when we suffer for Your name, we have a great reward in the Kingdom which we will share with a great cloud of witnesses. Help us to see this and be encouraged in this text this morning. And use this encouragement to turn us away from despairing in trouble. Turn us instead to being ready to give a defense for the hope we have in us. We pray this in Jesus' name… Amen. Transition: Let us once again dive right into the text this morning. I.) Because of the offense of the gospel, men will falsely accuse us of evil things, so we must be ready to give a defense for the hope we have in us. (27-30) a. [Slide 2] 27 - Now when the seven days were almost over, the Jews from Asia, upon noticing him in the temple, began to throw all the crowd into confusion and laid hands on him, i. Ok, so right off the bat there are some contextual clues we need to unravel to understand what is happening here. ii. First, the seven days here is referring to the general process of purification that would need to be endured for these men and for Paul. 1. We aren't exactly sure why these men performing the Nazarite vow were going through purification, because that isn't normally part of it, but the process itself took a week. 2. In that week's time, any seeking purification would have to be ritually washed on the third and the seventh day. No doubt Paul is in the temple on the seventh and final day of his purification. 3. This means that generally speaking, people who had ill intentions toward Paul would know on which day he would be in the temple next. iii. Second, we see that there are Jews from Asia present here in Jerusalem. Well, who are these folks and what are they doing here? 1. We might be tempted to think that these Jews have followed Paul to Jerusalem to harm him. This is possible, but there is a far simpler explanation for why these folks are here. Do you remember? 2. Yep! It is Pentecost, the Jewish feast commemorating the harvest. Shavuot (Sha-voo-ot) is one of the three pilgrimage feasts that are required for Jewish males to attend. 3. Anyone who was a Jew that took seriously the law of Moses would have made every effort to be in Jerusalem for this festival. 4. So, it shouldn't be a big surprise for us to find Jews from Asia in Jerusalem at this time. iv. Third, how would they recognize Paul and what had Paul done that infuriated them so much? 1. Although Luke only mentions the province in which they are from, the capital city of the province of Asia was the great city of Ephesus. A city in which Paul spent three years ministering. 2. Later, we find out that these people recognized one of Paul's companions who was from the city of Ephesus. This almost certainly confirms that these Jews were from or at least very familiar with the city of Ephesus and Paul's 3 year ministry there. 3. So why are they so opposed to Paul? 4. Well Paul preached in Ephesus and many Jews became disciples of Christ. He actually lead them out of the synagogue and took them to the hall of Tyrannus where he continued to teach and preach the gospel. 5. Needless to say, the Jews from Asia were not big fans of Paul. v. In Ephesus and in other cities around the empire, it has been clear thus far that the Jews were not always trusted, liked, or respected by the gentile communities in which they lived. vi. Although their faith was granted a special status as being allowed to be practiced within the empire, it still did not mean that the pagans around them respected them. vii. But here, the non-believing Jews clearly had numerical and ideological superiority over the Jewish Christians. viii. If there was ever a chance to stamp out Paul and his teachings – this is it. ix. So, these Asian Jews take this chance, grab hold of Paul and stir up the crowd against him. x. How? b. [Slide 3] 28 - crying out, “Men of Israel, help! This is the man who teaches to everyone everywhere against our people and the Law and this place; and besides, he has even brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place.” 29 - For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the city with him, and they supposed that Paul had brought him into the temple. i. These Asian Jews bring two charges against Paul. ii. The second charge is far more inflammatory to the crowd than the first. iii. The first charge is the accusation that Paul teaches against the Jewish people, against the law of Moses and against the temple of Yahweh, and he does so throughout the Roman Empire. iv. Ironically, this was the same charge levied against Stephen which led to his execution by stoning. Paul once saw things the same way these folks did. But for the grace of God yes? v. Such an accusation could be easily explained away. In fact, Paul's very presence in the temple that day going about his sacrifices and the end of his purity rituals would actually serve to counter their claim. vi. But the second charge is what gets the crowd stirred. vii. They claim that Paul has brought Trophimus, a man they would know to be a gentile, into the temple with him. viii. [Slide 4] As we know the temple mount could be entered by Gentiles. They could actually get fairly close to the temple itself. But Gentiles could not pass into the court of women or the court of the Israelites. ix. [Slide 5] Many scholars make much of the archeological evidence, like the sign on the screen, that warned gentiles with death if they entered into the temple grounds. And we even have speeches from Roman officials which seem to have allowed for the Jews to execute people who did violate such laws. x. But as I studied this, my mind wondered what Old Testament teaching or law is in view with the prohibition of gentiles entering the temple grounds. xi. Especially since they are under the impression that doing so would defile it. xii. What Old Testament law do they base this on? 1. [Slide 6] The closest thing I could find is Ezekiel 44:6-9 a. In reading this text, we can see very clearly that God judges Israel for allowing worshippers to come into the temple and even serve as priests who were neither circumcised in heart nor circumcised in flesh. b. God issues a command that no one shall enter His temple who is uncircumcised in heart and uncircumcised in flesh. 2. [Slide 7] But what do we do with the 5th gospel of Isaiah, who says in Isaiah 56:6-8… a. Here we see… explicitly… that Gentiles should not be strictly forbidden to come into the temple to make sacrifices. b. Why? c. Because God will be the one bringing them to do that one day! 3. So how do we harmonize these two texts? a. How can God bring foreigners into the temple if those uncircumcised in heart and flesh cannot enter? b. How did the Jews of this time harmonize this? i. The Jews of this time, completely ignore the Isaiah passage. ii. Even if a Gentile converted and became a Jew, even becoming circumcised… they would still not be permitted, even into the court of women. c. So how do we harmonize it? i. While we could be accused of exploiting a loophole, the fact of the matter is that there are many prophetic riddles throughout the scriptures. God expects us to think as we read His Word. ii. [Slide 8] What two conditions must be met in order to reject a foreigner from the temple according to Ezekiel 44? They must be both uncircumcised in heart and in flesh. iii. Trophimus was a gentile, uncircumcised in flesh, but circumcised in his heart. Therefore, he does not meet the conditions of Ezekiel 44 but DOES meet the conditions of Isaiah 56. xiii. [Slide 9] Added to this – These Jews raise issue with Paul and grab hold of him and will drag him out and attempt to kill him even though… 1. He is a Jew 2. He is enduring purification rights under the Mosaic Law 3. Even if he brought a gentile into the temple… the Gentile is the one that should be killed according to their law, not him. He would certainly be punished perhaps even severely. 4. But Paul should not be killed for this infraction even if it were exactly as they said it was. xiv. The fact of the matter is, the Jews, because of their national pride and racial prejudice, have so perverted the Word of God that they have determined that the exact opposite of what He has revealed is true. xv. And now they are going to kill Paul, an apostle of their Messiah and Everlasting King, because of their rebellion and their racism. c. [Slide 10] 30 - Then all the city was stirred, and the people rushed together, and taking hold of Paul they dragged him out of the temple, and immediately the doors were shut. i. As we pointed out last week, this time period was right in the middle of the escalation of hostility between Jews and the Roman Empire. ii. Although we are still 13 years away from the fall of Jerusalem, the conflict begins in AD 66 which is only 9 years away. iii. Not only that but Festus, a character we will meet in a few chapters, will actually spend two years making peace with the Jews and effectively kick the can of the revolt down the road… iv. Adding all this together we can see that even though the fall of Jerusalem is 13 years away, it is not a stretch for us to consider that at the moment Paul walks in the temple of Jerusalem, the divide between Jews and the Romans was nearing its peak. v. Knowing this, we can see quite easily why the crowd would respond to Paul the way they did. vi. Loyalty to the temple was closely tied to patriotism and Jewish Nationalism. An attack on the temple was an attack on Judaism. vii. And Paul is the lightening rod for all of this. viii. They took him out of the temple, because they could not commit violence and shed blood within the temple courts ix. To avoid this the guards close the doors. x. The temple guards could have stopped the violence. Instead, they closed the doors. d. [Slide 11] Summary of the Point: Throughout the book of Acts Luke has portrayed the Jesus movement as the next step in Judaism. To confess Jesus of Nazareth to be the Messiah of God and eternal heir to the throne of David is to take the next and final step in the redemptive history of Israel. In Acts we've seen many Jews embrace this New Covenant, which was ratified in the death and resurrection of Jesus proving Him to be the Messiah. He is the Son of Man prophesied in Daniel. He is the suffering Servant prophesied in Isaiah. And yet, as clear as this was to many, it remained repulsive and offensive to many more. The offense of the gospel drives natural man to terrible things. Jesus predicted that the disciple is no greater than the master. Meaning that what they did to Him, we can expect the same to be done to us. Paul is actually living out that experience in the pages of the passage we just saw. They accused Jesus of blaspheming the temple. And here Paul is accused of defiling it. We can expect the same to come to us. If we are to preach the gospel, we should both expect it to be offensive to the world and that we will be falsely accused of doing evil things because of it. So, what is our response? Our text this morning does not include Paul's response to all of this. Mainly because his response is quite lengthy. But generally speaking, we can see as Paul raises his defense of the gospel and his ministry, that we too must be ready to give a defense for the hope we have in us. Transition: [Slide 12 (blank)] But surely someone in the crowd will have the sense to question Paul as to whether these things are true? Surely someone will have the courage to say – yes but Paul is still a Jew and can go into the temple himself. So surely he doesn't deserve to die? Let us see if anyone among them will do this. Perhaps the Romans will if the Jews won't? II.) Because of the offense of the gospel men will revile and persecute us, so we must be ready to give a defense for the hope we have in us. (31-36) a. [Slide 13] 31 - While they were seeking to kill him, a report came up to the commander of the Roman cohort that all Jerusalem was in confusion. 32 - At once he took along soldiers and centurions and ran down to them; and when they saw the commander and the soldiers, they stopped beating Paul. i. Luke doesn't tell us who took the report to the commander. Perhaps one of Paul's companions or the church reported this to the Roman officer? ii. A Roman cohort consists of 1000 men. It is roughly 1/6 of a Roman Legion. iii. Within each cohort there were there were Centuries which would be 100 men, and each of them would be lead by a Centurion. iv. As a Roman officer in Judea, your one job is to make sure that these generally rebellious Jews paid their taxes and didn't revolt. v. During festivals, when Jerusalem was full of Jews on pilgrimage, it would be all hands on deck. vi. We see that this commander wastes no time, at once taking soldiers and their centurions down to where the beating was happening. vii. The Anatolia fortress was located on the Western side of the northern wall of the temple mount. Two stair cases down led to the outer courts. viii. So they were probably there quickly. ix. It is hard to know how many men he took with him, but we can assume at least a couple hundred since he took centurions (plural) with him. x. Assuming that is the case, 200 fully armed Roman soldiers running down the steps to the temple would be quite an intimidating sight. xi. No wonder the Jews stopped beating Paul when they came marching down. xii. But if the relations of the Romans and the Jews are so strained, how would the Roman Commander make sure that this doesn't look like the Romans are once again coming in to tell them how they should practice their religion? b. [Slide 14] 33 - Then the commander came up and took hold of him, and ordered him to be bound with two chains; and he began asking who he was and what he had done. i. The Roman Commander has Paul bound in chains, probably to two separate guards. He then asks who the man was and what he has done. ii. The concept of innocent until proven guilty is not a universal ideal. iii. The Romans certainly did not consider prisoners innocent until proven guilty. iv. In fact, as we've seen in the study of the book ok Acts, their subjects especially those who were not Roman citizens, could be beaten and imprisoned, and in some cases even killed without charge. v. This Roman commander shrewdly assumes that the man being beaten is guilty and asks the crowd for the information regarding his guilt. vi. If the answer he got was that clear – that Paul had defiled the temple – the Roman officer probably would have let them kill Paul. c. [Slide 15] 34 - But among the crowd some were shouting one thing and some another, and when he could not find out the facts because of the uproar, he ordered him to be brought into the barracks. i. This is the very definition of mob mentality. ii. Most of these people had no idea why they were hitting this man, they just knew that he had done something worth hitting him for. iii. When emotionalism and extreme rhetoric wins, the most natural thing we humans do, is follow the crowd of people who scream the loudest. iv. We'll always find something to be outraged about, and if it isn't what the crowd is outraged about – that's ok – we'll just vent our frustration in the convenient opportunity the mob has provided. v. Like when we burn a city when a football team wins… or also if they lose the big game???? vi. Such in the case here. vii. Seeing that the crowd has no idea who this person is or what he did, the commander chooses to escort the man to safety so that they could interrogate the prisoner himself. Which we will see him attempt to do in a few weeks. d. [Slide 16] 35 - And when he got to the stairs, he actually was carried by the soldiers because of the violence of the crowd; 36 - for the multitude of the people kept following them, shouting, “Away with him!” i. Even today, tactically speaking, stairs are what are called fatal funnels. ii. They are essentially hallways forcing you to change altitude and keeping you from flanking to safety. iii. These stairs are probably the first flight of stairs up to the Anatolian fortress. They would have been quite wide, but would have been difficult to navigate especially with a large crowd of people following them trying to get at their prisoner. iv. The Roman soldiers are forced to pick up and carry Paul up the stairs because the crowd continued to try to assault Paul on the way up. v. They call out “away with him” which is a great literal translation of the words, but idiomatically this certainly was their cry for Paul to be put to death. vi. We are reminded of the crowds call to “crucify” someone after He too entered the temple offering something that no one wanted. vii. Scholars sometimes press the similarities too far, but I think it is obvious that Luke sees the similarity of Christ's experience in Jerusalem during his passion week and Paul's experience here. Although they do not end the same of course. e. [Slide 17] Summary of the Point: Although Luke makes it clear in the book of Acts that the Romans saw no threat posed to the empire by the Christians, we should note that that doesn't mean that the Romans would always ride in and save Christians from persecution. In fact, this particular Roman commander not only arrested Paul without any idea what Paul did, he also, as we will see in the following weeks, intends to beat Paul some more in order to find out what happened in the temple. And these Jews, while not being in agreement as to why Paul was being beaten, all agreed on one thing… he needed to die. Again, we compare Paul's experience to our Lord Jesus'. He too was not rescued by the Romans. And the people cried out for Him to be killed too. Paul is suffering the same way Jesus suffered. If it can happen to Paul, and all the apostles, and countless others throughout the church's history, then it most certainly can… and will happen to us. If we faithfully preach the gospel men will revile us and persecute us. Why? Because the gospel is offensive. But again, what do we do when this happens? We must be ready to give an answer for the hope we have in us. Conclusion: So CBC, what have we learned today and how shall we live? Basic Concepts for Faith and Practice: [Slide 18] The gospel is by nature offensive to natural man. The religiously zealous Jews and the Roman pagans alike, both despise what Paul teaches and seek to silence it. And the world goes about silencing those who speak the gospel in two ways presented in this passage. They falsely accuse those who preach the gospel of evil things. They accused Paul of defiling the temple and teaching against the law of Moses. They will also revile and persecute those who preach the gospel. We see them beat, arrest, and call for the execution of Paul, to silence his teaching of the gospel. What does that mean for us? They will hate us too. Even if we are nice. Even if we are kind. Even if we are loving. They will still hate us. They will falsely accuse us of some of the most terrible things. And they will revile us and persecute us. What then should we do? We must be ready to give an answer for the hope we have in us. Even as they usher us through the door to that hope. These are the basic concepts of faith and practice in this text – but let's us dive a little deeper into them today. 1.) [Slide 19] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that the gospel is offensive to natural man. a. Why is it offensive? b. It teaches that every single person, whether they are moral, immoral, religious, irreligious, wealthy, poor, powerful, powerless, strong, weak, regardless of nationality, tribe, language, political party, every person is spiritually dead in their sin. c. They are… as the bible calls them… children of wrath. d. Slaves to sin. e. Every single person lacks all agency to do anything to save themselves or even to seek God to save them. f. This is what Paul says in Romans chapter 3 and this is what Augustine of Hippo defended in his treatise On Grace and Free Will against the Pelagian heresy. g. Mankind is not naturally equipped in their will to choose God or pursue Him in any way. They are given commands by God but are unable to accomplish them without God giving them grace to do so. h. There are two things I have found in my life that seem to be universally true of we humans. i. We hate being told we are wrong ii. And we hate being told we can't do anything about it. iii. Not only do we hate being told these things… we reject these things entirely. i. But the gospel tells us both and to the most extreme degree. i. It isn't just that we are wrong… we are dead wrong. So wrong that we have committed treason against the highest court of the highest kingdom on whose throne sits the highest God, Yahweh. ii. And we not only can't do anything about it… we don't even want to. Men love darkness and hate the light because their deeds are evil and they want to keep doing them. iii. There are none righteous and there are none who seek God. You are children of wrath of your father the devil and slaves to sin. iv. Just to quote a few j. All of this is the preamble of the gospel. k. It's funny – to the world that doesn't sound like good news at all. l. But to we who have been made alive in Christ… To know we are sinners and deserve nothing but judgment and wrath… That truly is good news. m. Why? n. Because Christ died for sinners! Just like you. Just like me. o. But until God gives a new heart and enables a person to see their own wickedness, they will continue to hate the gospel and fundamentally disagree with its accusations against them. p. As Matthew Henry once said, “Men hate Christ because they love their sin.” q. From our discussion last week – fear that the gospel may be right leads them to hate it. And what do we humans do with things we fear? We either flee them or we fight them. r. And that leads us to something we must deny. A lie we must dismiss especially now in the culture we are in… 2.) [Slide 20] Refutation: “What lies must we cast down” or “What do we naturally believe, or have been taught to believe, that this passage shows is false?” We must deny that religious toleration for the true gospel is normative. a. Although it is a much easier sell today than it would have been a few decades ago, because we still have relative freedom to continue to worship God in the way that He has commanded us to, we tend to find it difficult to connect with warnings about coming persecution. b. One other general human trait that I have observed is that we as humans tend to believe that all of life will continue as it has. We assume that because we live in a country where we are free from constant persecution against our beliefs that this will always be true. c. However, we know from the words of Christ that if we are His disciple then we should not expect anything less than the same rejection He experienced. d. If Men hate Christ because they love their sin – it stands to reason that they will hate any who follow Christ and are calling them to repent of their sin. e. This is why the “God loves you and is just wanting you to love Him back” gospel message is so popular today. Because it doesn't actually call anyone to abandon their sin. Instead, the message conveys the idea that God would be really lucky to have you if you would just say yes. f. And because of this message being out there, the real gospel message of God calling all men to repent and believe on Christ as Savior and Lord – is reviled and despised. g. And just like Paul was accused of blasphemy against the temple and even betrayal toward his own kinsmen, we too will be slandered. i. We spoke last week how the church is seen as homophobic or transphobic because we agree with God about sexuality and gender. ii. We are accused of hating democracy and freedom because we advocate for our laws to be based on God's moral will. iii. We are accused of intolerance because we believe Jesus when He says He is the only way to the Father. iv. We are accused of hating women because we believe God's word when it tells us of gender roles and authority structures within the home. v. In short, the world will rebrand us as arch villains because we have the audacity to see, through the lens of ancient Scripture, that their cherished practices are sin. vi. And we may, in the most loving and compassionate way we can, call them to repent and trust on Christ for the forgiveness of sin and new life… vii. But remember men love darkness rather than light for their deeds are evil. viii. God must give them a new heart in order for them to receive the gifts of repentance and faith. h. And unfortunately, men's hatred of the gospel and those who preach it will not just stop at slander. As it did with Paul, slander was the vehicle used to harm, revile, and persecute Paul. We too should expect the same. i. It is only a small step from where we are to where many other countries are in relation to persecution. ii. We may be tempted to think that such things could never happen in our country or that if they do, we are decades away. iii. But my friends, it would not surprise me to wake up tomorrow and learn that it is no longer legal to preach certain scripture passages or certain interpretations of scriptures passages. iv. It seemed like overnight governors of states were commanding churches not to sing to God in their services. v. And there isn't a party that exists today that has a biblical worldview. So just like Paul could not look to the Romans to save him, so too we cannot look to the Republicans to save us. vi. We will be persecuted on all sides. Not just from liberals. We will be persecuted by people who call themselves Christians. Perhaps even some in this very room will be the ones turning us in to the authorities. i. I don't know when the hammer will fall. I don't know how long God will allow for us to worship Him in peace with the culture around us. But I do know that from where the country started to where we are – our trajectory is on a nose dive headed straight for persecution. j. It does us no good to put our heads in the sand and continue to deny that such things would or could happen. k. We must even now ready ourselves by counting the cost and whether we are willing to pay it. l. But what is our response to persecution? Should we resist? Should we fight back? 3.) [Slide 21] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must take every opportunity to give a defense of the hope that is in us. a. Interestingly, in this text, there is not a single example positively of what we are to do, nor is there a direct command in this passage associated to what is happening in the text. b. Before the end of this chapter Paul will respond. c. And originally in my sermon planning I did include verses 37-40. d. But in order to understand Paul's response we would need to look into what he says which would mean looking at MANY more verses. e. Paul actually begins his first of 6 defenses of his faith and ministry that are recorded in the last 7 chapters of the book of Acts starting in chapter 22. f. Now without looking at the first defense in its entirety let alone looking at all 6 defenses, we can still draw a very general application from what we know of the remainder of the book of Acts. g. And quite simply that is that we should take every opportunity we are given, in the midst of persecution, in the midst of slander, in the midst of opposition and hardship from all sides, we should take the opportunity we are given to give a defense for the hope that is in us. h. We cannot afford to fight back, resist, or get even when persecution comes. Why? Because we always have a responsibility to be ambassadors for Jesus Christ. i. Paul was gravely assaulted by these people, but he will stand before them and 5 more hostile audiences in the next 7 chapters, and will boldly decare the gospel of Jesus Christ. j. We must do the same. k. And maybe you are thinking… wow. I don't think I can do that. l. That is just not my default setting. Someone takes a swipe at me, my natural impulse is going to be to swipe back. m. So, the real discussion is, how do you fight that natural impulse and do what Jesus commands you to do? n. I think it starts with what Jesus says should be our perspective on persecution in general. 4.) [Slide 22] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must rejoice and be exceedingly glad when we are persecuted for Christ's sake. a. Although you'll have to forgive me for going outside of our text this morning to snag this application, because the scriptures are one, I don't think I am doing any disservice to Luke's account by tossing this little aside in. b. [Slide 23] Matthew 5:11-12 c. After reading this text, tell me you don't see Paul's experience all over Christ's teaching here in the sermon on the mount! d. Paul was slandered. Paul was reviled. Paul was persecuted for Christ's sake. So, what should Paul's response be? What should our response be? e. We must rejoice and be exceedingly glad. f. What? Why? g. Because we are blessed. We are favored of God when this happens. h. How does that compute? How does this comfort us? 5.) [Slide 24] Comfort: “What comfort can we find here?” or “What peace does the Lord promise us in light of this passage of scripture?” Our reward in heaven is great and we are in good company. a. God's kingdom and His righteousness is constantly opposed by a kingdom that is perishing. b. In the Old Testament, God's prophets were treated this way. And time proved that they were right. c. In the New Testament, His apostles were treated this way and time has proved out that they were right. d. My friends, if you are truly slandered, reviled, and abused for the sake of Christ and His gospel… You are blessed. e. You are blessed because your reward will be great in the Kingdom and in that kingdom there will be many, just like you, who were hated for the gospel. f. So, rejoice and be exceedingly glad. g. You are in good company. [Slide 25 (end)] Let me close with a word of prayer from the English Reformer Thomas Cranmer Merciful God, you grant all peace. You are the giver of all good gifts, the defender of all nations. And you desire us to count all people as neighbors, to love them as ourselves, and not to hate our enemies. Rather, you want us to wish them well, and also to do them good if we can. Look down upon us and see this small portion of earth where the name of Jesus Christ is proclaimed. Give to all of us the desire for peace, unity, and calm. Make us weary of all war and hostility, weary of bitterness toward those we call enemies. May we and they praise your holy name with one heart. May we all remake our lives according to your way. Grant, O Lord, that our children's children may know the benefit of your great gift of unity. May you discredit all those who work against it. Diminish their strength and punish those who interrupt godly peace-or rather, convert their hearts to the better way, and make them embrace unity and peace, which will be for your glory. Put away from us all war and hostility. But if we are driven to it, be our shield and protection as we seek peace. Do not look on our sins, Lord, or the sins of our enemies. Do not give us what we deserve, but remember your abundant, infinite mercy. Do this, O Lord, for your Son's sake, Jesus Christ. Amen. Benediction: May the God Who changes not, Who has no shadow of turning, And Whose compassions fail not, Preserve you by His loving kindness, So that you might know, Great are His faithful acts, they are new every morning. Until we meet again, go in peace.

Jesus said, “the harvest is ready, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray to the Lord of the harvest that he would send laborers.” Notice that Jesus does not tell us to pray for the harvest–it's ready–he tells us to pray for the church which seems to be too apathetic, ill equipped, or insecure to go out and proclaim the gospel. Because Christ died for the lost, Inspire Church should passionately pursue them and proclaim the good news. This is the primary mission of the church. In this episode we want to paint a picture of what it looks like to “tell the story and to live it out” in our own lives as we seek to become a church that lives in rhythms of witness. Panelists Name: Philip Muela & Roger Pethybridge Pastor Phillip Lee (Senior Pastor of Hope Community Church)

Death can sting in many ways. First, death can sting by casting a shadow over every moment of life. No matter what earthly joy you are experiencing, death guarantees it won't last. Second, death can sting by separating loves. There are no phone calls or hugs from the dead. Third, death can sting by instilling fear of what follows. Deep down, every human being senses that after death there is some sort of reckoning. . . a judgement. Yes, death can sting in many ways. Note that word can. Because he lives, death has lost its sting for those who put their faith in the living Lord. Because Christ lives, we have all the proof we need that God accepted Jesus' death as the complete and final payment for all our sin. Those who are in Christ need no judgment. There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. More, Christ's resurrection is the assurance that our Christian loved ones are not lost. We will see them again in the resurrection. For Christ's resurrection means we will rise to a world of incomprehensible and unending joy. Death remains unnatural. But Christ has defeated death. So, while death may still cause tears, death does not cause dread. Because he lives, death has lost its sting.Support the showMessages from the King is produced by King of Kings Lutheran Church in Maitland, FL.To find out more about King of Kings... Please visit VisitKoK.com Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/visitkok) Email us @ info@visitkok.com Remember your Savior Jesus loves you! May he bless you with his grace!

So we find that in this first resurrection, the believers escapes judgment, which is the second death. 'cause we're all going to stand before God one day, whether you accepted Christ in this life. Or whether you didn't accept Christ in this life. As a believer, when you stand before God in the next life, he will say, "Well, done, good and faithful servant." Because Christ is your advocate, because you gave your life to Christ, you can pass through, and you could live in eternal bliss with God forever, but for those that fail to receive Christ in this life. You will still have to acknowledge that Jesus is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. But because you didn't accept it in this life. You will experience the consequences of your decision in the next life. Not God's desire, not what God wants. But a faithful judge with you'll be faithful, and he will give you what you choose. If you want to choose to kill someone, you're going to go to jail. If it is a faithful judge, if you choose not to embrace God's means of salvation. He will give you what you want. Though it pains him to do it. He will give you what you want and you will receive the fruit of that decision. Which is eternal life in hell in the Lake of Fire? You will get what you choose, but I want you to know, it is not God's desire for your life. That's why God sends people like me like believers to tell you about Christ to preach to you. The good news of salvation is that it is efficient. So you can know what is real. You can know God's desire for your life. And having experienced the good news. You can embrace God's offer of salvation, and you can receive Christ and never have to worry about the second death. We can hold on to His promise of resurrection life

A Biblical Exposition on the Bodily Resurrection of Christ: Its Meaning for the World and the Believer   The bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, a historical and theological truth that reverberates through time, shaping the destiny of humanity and the hope of every believer. The resurrection is not merely a symbolic or spiritual event but a physical, bodily reality that validates Christ's identity as the Son of God, secures salvation for believers, and guarantees the future resurrection of all who trust in Him. Today we will explore the biblical teaching on Christ's resurrection, its implications for the world and the believer, the consequences if Christ had not risen (as outlined in 1 Corinthians 15), and the hope of our future resurrection grounded in His triumph over death   I. The Fact of Christ's Bodily Resurrection The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a well-attested historical event, recorded in all four Gospels (Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, John 20–21) and affirmed throughout the New Testament. It was not a hallucination, a spiritual metaphor, or a myth, but a physical reality witnessed by many. John 20:27–29 “Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.”   Jesus' invitation to Thomas to touch His wounds demonstrates the physicality of His resurrected body. This was no ghost or vision; Christ's body bore the marks of crucifixion, yet He was alive, speaking, and interacting. Thomas's response, “My Lord and my God,” reflects the magnificent weight of the resurrection: it confirms Jesus' deity and lordship.  The blessing pronounced on those who believe without seeing extends the resurrection's significance to all believers across generations, calling us to faith in the testimony of Scripture. Luke 24:39–40 “Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.”   Jesus explicitly counters any notion that His resurrection was merely spiritual. His body was tangible, composed of “flesh and bones,” yet glorified, able to transcend physical limitations (e.g., appearing in locked rooms, John 20:19). The continuity of His body (bearing crucifixion scars) and its transformation (no longer subject to death) reveal the nature of the resurrection body—both physical and glorified. This is the prototype for the believer's future resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15:3–8 “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.”   Paul's summary of the gospel emphasizes the resurrection as a historical fact, corroborated by multiple eyewitnesses. The appearances to Peter, the apostles, over 500 brethren, James, and Paul himself provide overwhelming testimony. The phrase “of whom the greater part remain unto this present” invites scrutiny, as living witnesses could be questioned at the time of Paul's writing.  The resurrection fulfills Old Testament prophecy (“according to the scriptures,” e.g., Psalm 16:10), anchoring it in God's redemptive plan.   II. The Significance of Christ's Resurrection for the World The resurrection of Christ is not an isolated event but a cosmic turning point with implications for all creation. It declares God's victory over sin, death, and Satan, and it reshapes the world's destiny.       Romans 1:4 “And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.”   The resurrection is God's public declaration of Jesus' divine sonship. It validates His claims to be the Messiah and the Son of God, distinguishing Him from all other religious figures. For the world, this means Jesus is the rightful Lord and Judge (Acts 17:31). The resurrection demands a response: acceptance of Christ's lordship or rejection, with eternal consequences.   Acts 17:30–31 “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.”   The resurrection establishes Jesus as the appointed Judge of all humanity. God's command to repent is universal, and the resurrection serves as “assurance” (proof) of Christ's authority.  For the world, this is both a warning and an invitation: judgment is coming, but salvation is offered through faith in the risen Christ. The resurrection thus reorients human history toward accountability to God. Colossians 2:15 “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.”   The resurrection is Christ's triumph over demonic powers. His death disarmed Satan's hold over humanity through sin (Hebrews 2:14–15), and His resurrection publicly humiliated the forces of darkness.  For the world, this means the power of evil is broken, and Christ's kingdom is advancing, ultimately culminating in the restoration of all creation (Romans 8:21).   III. The Significance of Christ's Resurrection for the Believer For believers, the resurrection is the foundation of salvation, sanctification, and eternal hope. It assures us of justification, empowers us for holy living, and guarantees our future resurrection. Romans 4:25 “Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.”   Christ's resurrection is integral to our justification. His death paid the penalty for sin, but His resurrection confirms that God accepted His sacrifice. Because Christ lives, believers are declared righteous before God, forgiven, and reconciled. This is the bedrock of the believer's assurance: our standing with God is secure because Christ is risen.   Romans 6:4–5 “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.”   The resurrection empowers believers to live transformed lives. Through union with Christ, symbolized in baptism, we share in His death to sin and His resurrection to new life. This “newness of life” is not merely future but present, enabling us to overcome sin and live for God's glory. The promise of sharing in “the likeness of his resurrection” points to our future glorified bodies, but it also assures us of spiritual vitality now.     1 Peter 1:3–4 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you.”   The resurrection gives believers a “lively hope”—a confident expectation of eternal life. Christ's triumph over death secures our inheritance in heaven, which is imperishable and guaranteed by His resurrection.  This hope sustains believers through trials, knowing that our future is as certain as Christ's empty tomb. We do not clench a crucifix around our neck, or cling to a catechism, or a ritual— we are clinched in the hands of God through the resurrected Christ.   IV. The Consequences If Christ Had Not Risen (1 Corinthians 15) In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul addresses the Corinthian church's doubts about the resurrection, arguing that denying the resurrection of believers undermines the resurrection of Christ Himself. He outlines the devastating consequences if Christ had not risen. 1 Corinthians 15:12–19 “Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.”   Paul's logic is airtight: if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ is not risen, and the entire Christian faith collapses.    He lists the consequences: Preaching is vain (v. 14): The gospel message, centered on Christ's death and resurrection, would be empty and powerless. Evangelism would be a lie. Faith is vain (v. 14, 17): Belief in Christ would be futile, offering no salvation. Believers would remain “yet in your sins,” unforgiven and under God's wrath. Apostles are false witnesses (v. 15): The apostolic testimony, including Paul's own, would be a fabrication, making them liars about God's work. The dead in Christ are perished (v. 18): Those who died trusting in Christ would have no hope of eternal life; they are lost forever. Christians are most miserable (v. 19): If hope in Christ is limited to this life, believers who endure persecution and sacrifice for Him are pitiable fools. Paul's argument underscores the resurrection's centrality.    Without it, Christianity is a delusion, offering no forgiveness, no eternal life, and no purpose. But because Christ is risen, the opposite is true: preaching is powerful, faith is effective, the apostles are trustworthy, the dead in Christ are secure, and believers are the most blessed of all people.   V. The Hope of Our Future Resurrection The resurrection of Christ is the “firstfruits” (1 Corinthians 15:20) of the resurrection of all believers. His triumph over death guarantees our future resurrection and the ultimate redemption of creation. 1 Corinthians 15:20–23 “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming.”   The term “firstfruits” implies both priority and promise. Christ's resurrection is the initial harvest, guaranteeing the full harvest of believers' resurrection at His return. Just as Adam's sin brought death to all humanity, Christ's resurrection brings life to all who are “in Christ.” This order—Christ first, then His people—assures us that our resurrection is as certain as His. Philippians 3:20–21 “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.”   The believer's future resurrection involves the transformation of our mortal bodies into glorified bodies like Christ's. This is not a mere spiritual existence but a physical reality, free from corruption and suited for eternal life. Christ's resurrection body—capable of eating (Luke 24:42–43) yet unbound by physical limitations—is the model for our own. 1 Thessalonians 4:14–16 “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first.” The resurrection of believers is directly tied to Christ's resurrection (“if we believe that Jesus died and rose again”). At His return, the dead in Christ will rise first, followed by living believers, all transformed to meet the Lord. This hope comforts believers, especially those grieving loved ones, assuring them of reunion and eternal life.   VI. Conclusion: Our Hope Rests on Christ's Resurrection The bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ is the linchpin of the Christian faith. It declares His victory over sin and death, validates His deity, secures salvation for believers, and promises the restoration of all creation. For the world, it demands repentance and faith in the risen Lord, who will return as Judge. For the believer, it assures justification, empowers holy living, and anchors our hope in an eternal inheritance.   The stark consequences outlined in 1 Corinthians 15—if Christ had not risen—highlight the resurrection's indispensability. Without it, our faith is vain, our sins remain, and our hope is lost. But because Christ is risen, our preaching is true, our faith is effective, and our future is secure. Our hope of future resurrection rests firmly on the fact of Christ's resurrection.  As the “firstfruits,” He guarantees that we, too, will rise to eternal life with glorified bodies, free from sin and death. This hope sustains us through trials, motivates us to live for Christ, and fills us with anticipation for His return.    Let us, therefore, echo the words of Job, confident in the risen Savior: Job 19:25–26 “For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God.” May we live in the power of Christ's resurrection, proclaiming His victory and awaiting the day when we shall be “fashioned like unto his glorious body” (Philippians 3:21), forever with the Lord. Amen.

In this episode of Crosswind Unleashed, we reflect on the resurrection of Jesus and its significance for believers today. Because Christ is risen, the power of sin that once held us captive is broken. We'll explore how the resurrection isn't just a past event—it's a present reality that empowers us to live in true freedom, boldness, and hope. We'll unpack what it means to walk in the victory Christ has already won. This week, Pastor Craig Cooper is joined by fellow pastor on staff at Crosswinds, Elijah Merrill, the Technical Arts Director.Visit us online: crosswinds.church

Fr. Juan - Rejoice! Because Christ fulfilled His promiseTo support our podcasts, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.holyfamilyorlando.com/give⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Holy Family is a vibrant Catholic Parish in SW Orlando near Dr. Phillips, Isleworth, Windermere, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Horizon West, Metrowest. Also, conveniently located near the theme parks (Disney, Universal, SeaWorld) as well as the Orlando Convention Center.

Life can be painful and uncertain, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. In "Life is Hard, But Christ is Risen," Pastor Dave Gustavsen shares the story of Mary Magdalene, who stood at Jesus' tomb thinking all hope was lost. But when Jesus called her by name, everything changed — He was alive, and she was not alone. Because Christ is risen, we can face life's hardest moments with hope, knowing He sees us, knows us, and is with us. Dave Gustavsen | April 20, 2025Visit our website or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

1 Corinthians 15:12-20 Because Christ has been raised from the dead, power, life, and hope fill our lives. The post Power, Life, & Hope Resurrected appeared first on Grace Presbyterian Church (PCA).

Because Christ suffered all, we don't have to suffer alone.

Because Christ rose from the grave, God's children are forgiven. No one can successfully bring a charge against those who are in Christ.

Because Christ died and rose again, we who are united to Him by faith will also rise from the grave to be in the presence of God.

Because Christ welcomes us, we are called to and able to welcome one another. This allows for unity and diversity amongst believers! Pastor Luke Hukee offers 4 reasons (4 P's) why we are able and called to be united to one another even in our differences.

Because Christ will return in power to judge the ungodly who continue to oppose him in word or deed, we must not give in to their teaching and must warn them and others that his promised judgement is coming so that all will flee to Christ by faith.I. Jude's Use of this Prophesy of Enoch Concerning Coming Judgement v 14aII. The Coming Judgement of Christ Against the Ungodly v 14b-15 1) It is the Lord Jesus Who is Coming in Power for Judgement 2) The Purpose of Christ's Coming Will be Judgment for the Ungodly! 3) The Ungodly will be judged for their God denying actions and Christ belittling words!III. Beware These Ungodly Sins that Bring God's Judgement v 16

Hebrews 7:11-28. Because Christ is our great High Priest, He is able to save to the uttermost all who call upon Him.

Because Christ will and has appeared, we know who God's children are, for they look like God's Son.

(2 Corinthians 13:14) There is only one God. That God has expressed Himself in three Persons - God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. It should be our greatest desire to grow in knowledge of and love for every member of the Godhead. (0947250221) ----more----   The Divine Trinity Over the last several studies, we've been looking at what the Bible says about God, about the Lord Jesus Christ, and about the Holy Spirit. Come to see that God the Father is God, that God the Son is God, and that God the Holy Spirit is God. And we don't have three gods, we have one God expressed in three persons. The Bible says there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. And so they are distinct and separate persons of the Godhead. And yet, they are co-equal, co-existent, and co-eternal. The word that is frequently used to describe our God is the Trinity. God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit. Really the word Trinity is a great word. It means three in one, the triune God, Trinity in unity.  Understanding the Godhead But the Bible word for it is the Godhead. God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, working together. Jesus spoke about this in John chapter 14 when Philip came to him and said, "Show us the Father and it sufficeth us." We want to see the Father. And Jesus says to him, "If you've seen me, you've seen the Father." In other words, if you want to know the Father, You have to know the Father through the Son. In the same chapter in John chapter 14, He said, "When I leave you,(when the Son leaves), I'm going to send the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth." And he says, "The Holy Spirit's going to come and dwell with you and be in you and he's going to reveal more of me to you." So watch this. If you want to know the Father, you've got to know the Son. And if you want to know the Son, then you've got to know the Spirit. Do you see how the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit work together? The Father is the begetter, the Son is the begotten. The Father is the sender, the Son is the sent one. And then the Father and Son together send the Spirit of God to abide with us forever. It's also a beautiful thought to see how each glorifies the other. The Father glorified the Son came to fulfill the will of the Father. The Holy Spirit comes not to do his own will or to speak of himself, but rather to glorify the Lord Jesus so that the Father will be pleased. It's just, it's wonderful to see this perfect unity and part of the reason we can't comprehend it is we don't see that kind of unity in our world today. Our finite and fallen minds cannot wrap our imaginations around something so perfect and yet that's our God, our perfect God. Biblical References to the Trinity From the very beginning of the scriptures we see this triune God at work. For example, Genesis chapter 1 verse number 26 says "Let us make a man in our image." Oh, who is that having a conversation? Oh, that's the Father, Son, and Spirit. Who've been in perfect communion from eternity past. In fact, in Genesis chapter number one, we see the Spirit of God moving upon the face of the waters and we learn in Colossians 1 that the Lord Jesus Christ was the one who created all things. So someone's going to say who created the world? The Father, the Son, or the Spirit? And the answer to that question is yes. Isn't that beautiful? So even in the plurality of the pronoun that's used in Genesis 1, even in the plurality of The name that is used for our God, the Lord God. There is a reference to the fact that the Father, the Son, and the Spirit, all working together. Our perfect God. One God at work in this world. Let me read something to you from the book of Isaiah that may help you to understand this a little better. I love this passage. Isaiah chapter number 48, verse number 16, says, "Come ye near me, hear ye this, I have not spoken in secret from the beginning. From the time that it was, there I am, and now the Lord God and His Spirit hath sent me. Thus saith the Lord thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, I am the Lord by God, which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go." Did you see all three members of the Godhead? The Lord God. Now this is Jehovah, Yahweh. A reference to our Father. And there is the Redeemer, that's a reference to the Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. And then there is His Spirit, a reference to the Holy Ghost of God. The first time we see them in the New Testament is in Matthew chapter 3 at the baptism of the Lord Jesus. The Bible says in Matthew 3 verse 16, "And Jesus, when He was baptized, went up straight way out of the water. And lo, the heavens were opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and laying upon Him. And lo, a voice from heaven saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." Do you see the Lord Jesus, the Son, standing in the water? And do you hear the voice of the Father speaking from His throne in heaven? And do you see the Holy Spirit being sent from heaven down to earth? To light upon the Lord Jesus Christ. Father, Son, and Spirit working in unbroken unity together.  The Great Commission and the Trinity When you come to the end of that same book, to Matthew chapter number 28, you come to the Great Commission, the command that's been given us, and the baptismal formula for how new believers are to be baptized. And what does it say? We're to baptize them, Matthew 28:19, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Why the Father, the Son, and the Spirit? Because they are co-equal. They are co-existent. They are co-eternal. Although they are distinct persons, you cannot separate them from one another. And this is the truth. This is what I'm praying that the Lord will help us to understand today about what the Bible says about the Godhead. The Bible says about the Trinity, the great three in one, and it is this. That I have the Father, I have the Son, and I have the Spirit. That the Father, the Son, and the Spirit are all related to us as believers. We have access to all that God is.  Apostolic Benediction and Divine Blessing And so I bring you to what is commonly referred to as the apostolic benediction. That's just a big, formal term for a prayer that the Apostle Paul prays concerning the church at Corinth. In 2 Corinthians chapter 13, the closing verse 14, says, "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen." It's beautiful to see how Paul's closing prayer opens all of heaven to us. This is really not the the apostles' blessing. This is divine blessing. This is the key that unlocks heaven's storehouse. Everything that we need is wrapped up in the Father, the Son, and the Spirit. And notice the divine order. He begins with the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. He begins with everybody's greatest need. Do you know what everyone's greatest need is? It's grace. Friend, without grace, we can't enjoy any other good thing. And how does that grace come from heaven to earth? It comes to us through the Lord Jesus Christ. Almost without exception, when the Godhead are mentioned, the Father is always mentioned first. But Christ is first here. And why is that? Because Christ is the one who opens the way to the Father. You can't enjoy the love of God or the communion of the Holy Ghost without the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. And once you come to know the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, you begin to enter in and grow in your understanding of the love of God. Deeper and deeper into the love of God. And how does that happen? It happens through the indwelling God. The communion of the Holy Ghost, God who lives inside of you. I'm taking the time today to point this out to you all through scripture because I'm hoping you'll come to love more the Father, the Son, and the Spirit. To speak more to the Father, the Son, and the Spirit, and to tell others of the Father, the Son, and the Spirit. My prayer for you today is that the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. And the love of God and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen.  Outro and Resources Repeating what other people have said about the Bible is not enough. We must know the biblical reason behind what we believe. We hope you will visit us at etj.bible to access our library of Bible teaching resources, including book-by-book studies of Scripture. You'll also find studies to watch, listen to, or read. We are so grateful for those who pray for us, who share the biblical content, and for those who invest to help us advance this ministry. Again, thank you for listening, and we hope you'll join us next time on Enjoying the Journey.

Year C – 6th Sunday after Epiphany   Grace and peace to you from God, our Creator, and from our savior, Jesus Christ, who came to bring good news to the poor. Amen. *** This one always used to make me squirm a bit… you know? No matter how much I shifted in my seat… I could not escape its conviction. We are still getting to know each other, but you have probably figured out that I love to laugh… And, of course, I like to be comfortable… and yes, I hope to maintain my good reputation. But when I read this… it's like Jesus is standing there in front of me… shaking his head and looking disappointed. I don't like that. But I know I'm not alone. We all like our comforts, and we all prefer financial security and a positive reputation. So why does Jesus say… woe to us... woe to us who are rich… woe to us who are filled… woe to us who are laughing and well thought of. Woe to us… who put our trust… our faith… in our earthly resources… *** I want to take a little detour and tell you about a time in my life when my faith just… exploded… my spiritual AH-HA moment! I've been a Lutheran all my life. My parents brought me to church every Sunday when I was little, I was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church. There were some years in college and as a young adult that I didn't attend regularly… but church was my habit, and I valued the community that was available to me there. But when it came to my faith… well… I thought I had faith, but looking back, I don't think I fully understood it… I believed in God, but I didn't truly understand what it meant to be encountered by the living Christ… until about 12 years ago. That was when our youngest daughter was 2 years old, and I was home alone with her when she had a seizure. By the way… she is aware that I'm telling this story. I didn't fully understand what was happening, and I was terrified… I didn't know how to help her. I called my parents, and I called 911 We ended up at the hospital, where the seizures continued… and she was eventually diagnosed with epilepsy, but they couldn't figure out why she had it. So for the next several months, we were in and out of the hospital… tests and specialist visits and all sorts of things were happening. And the medical bills were just… soaring… we had insurance, but it didn't matter… the amount of the debt became comical for us… Bill was the primary earner in our family… working as a graphic designer for a tiny, struggling, family-run graphic design firm… and I worked for the church as the bookkeeper and the youth minister. We were not wealthy, but prior to this event, we were at least keeping our heads above water. And then… a few months into Kara's medical adventures, Bill was laid off… on the day after Christmas. Suddenly, we were in deep poverty. The kind where you legitimately do not know where your next meal is coming from. It was very scary. The benefit, however, of being that deep in poverty is that Kara qualified for subsidized health insurance for children, and the amount we owed stopped ballooning. And… at least at that time, there were still social safety nets that gave us some breathing room on our mortgage, so we didn't lose our house. And also, tending to Kara's medical needs became a time-consuming responsibility… and since Bill wasn't working, he was home and was able to give the extra time needed, and work with the doctors to get her stabilized. And as for our next meal… well… our church community showed up in huge ways. They brought casseroles by on hospital days… groceries would appear on our doorstep, and Meijer gift cards showed up in the mail. There was an abundance. They checked in on us… they held us… they prayed with us and for us. They surrounded us with so much love and support, that even though we felt we were free-falling, we never hit bottom. And every time I looked at them… they absolutely shined with Christ's light… and I finally understood… this is how Christ meets us in our most difficult moments… This is how Christ ministers to us…loves us… holds us… surrounds us with peace. I didn't recognize Christ in my community before because I was too busy with all my stuff… my hands were too full of my own earthly treasure… I was too used to being one of the helpers… I had no idea what it meant to be the one in need. Only once my hands were empty did I become ready to receive the fullness of God's blessing… and only through God's grace could I humble myself enough to receive it. In receiving this gift of grace, my awareness opened up, and I finally got it… that all the earthly treasure we had before, and all we have now… was always, and will always be, a gift given to us, meant to be shared… And so it is with joy that I endeavor to bring Christ's light to others, just as others brought it to us. *** I had to learn this lesson of seeing Jesus the hard way… maybe you don't have to – maybe you're not as hard-headed as me… but I am forever grateful that Jesus met me where I was and showed me grace. What else could I possibly do after that… but follow him? That's what Jesus does… he meets us exactly where we are… to call us into discipleship. And if we miss the cue… he'll try again. Just like in our gospel text, Jesus met the people on the plain... all those people, he met them on a level place… no one higher or lower than the others. He met the very Jewish people from Jerusalem and Judea… the very Gentile people from Tyre and Sidon… disciples… followers of Jesus… those seeking healing… and all the different people in between. He meets them all… on a level place… and he heals them all. But to his disciples… to those who are following him in his mission… he explains that the kindom of God belongs to those who show up empty-handed. Blessed are you who are poor… hungry… Blessed are you who are weeping Jesus turns their understanding of the world… upside down… just like he did for me. He is… re-orienting their priorities, and not all are going to accept this new world order… But… he still healed them.... he healed them all…  Because he still loves them. Because Christ is still Christ… and the invitation is always there to open our hearts and turn our minds to God's ways… to open our hands to receive the goodness of God. But his mission is plainly stated… Jesus came to bring good news to the poor. *** That time in our life with Kara and experiencing poverty… it re-oriented our priorities and opened our eyes to see Christ all around us. In time, Kara's epilepsy stabilized, and she's doing great… and Bill found a new and better job. We're doing ok…           …and I don't think Jesus is disappointed about that. Because, like I said, our priorities are different… we now consider that what we have is a gift from God, and gifts are meant to be shared. And, we understand now how much we are all connected, and how much we need each other. We understand that it is not ok for us to be satisfied in our wealth if our neighbor is starving. …what good is our freedom and privilege if our neighbor is held captive and oppressed. The blessings and woes Jesus proclaims are not two separate ideas… Jesus is not saying that God is only with the poor. God is with all the people… always… and Jesus is calling our awareness to our connection to all of them, but most especially… to those who are most in need. Those who are deeply in need or despairing are uniquely positioned to recognize that Jesus blesses them and offers encouragement… and ministers to them through others. And when we are so full of our own treasure that we have forgotten where it truly came from, Jesus brings words of challenge to remind us that we are connected and bound to all those in our community… and throughout Creation. These blessings and woes are a call into discipleship… they call us back into the way of Christ, and into a more generous, connected way of life. After all, we are… one body in Christ. And so it is with joy and delight that we care for each other and minister to each other… sharing our gifts as we are able and shining Christ's light into the world… And trusting that when we come before God with empty hands, God will fill them with love and grace and blessing. Amen.

Jude concludes his letter with a doxology that is essentially in the form of a prayer in the Greek. He emphasizes that when we are in peril of being shipwrecked in our faith by false teachers, Christ has the power to keep His focus on us as a shepherd watches over a flock, standing us up again firmly before Him when we stumble in our walk. Because Christ has washed us in His blood, He can present us blameless before the Lord, and we will have the privilege of being received with joy into the Lord's presence if we keep on faithing and contending for the faith. VF-2154 Jude 1:24-25 Watch, Listen and Learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel. ©2025 Pastor Melissa Scott, Ph.D., All Rights Reserved

     In the Christian life, faith can be seen in two ways. First, there is the single act of faith in Jesus that results in our salvation (John 3:16; 6:40; 20:31; Acts 4:12; 16:31; Eph 2:8-9). This refers to our justification before God and is a one-time event that is never repeated. Justification is declared because God has imputed His righteousness to us at the moment we trusted in Jesus as our Savior (Rom 5:17; 2 Cor 5:21; Phil 3:9). This results in our eternal salvation and is conditioned only on faith in Jesus (Rom 3:28; Gal 2:16), for “there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved” (Act 4:12). Second, after being born again, God calls us to a walk of faith where we continually trust Him at His Word and obey His directives (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6). The walk of faith focuses largely on what we think (Rom 12:1-2), say (Eph 4:15; Col 4:6), and do (Jam 1:22). God's Word sanctifies us as we walk by faith in Him (John 17:17), and this glorifies Him and advances us to spiritual maturity. Justification sets the ground for sanctification, but does not guarantee it, as the Christian must possess positive volition and make ongoing good choices that are rooted in divine viewpoint. Some believers, like the prodigal son, may turn to a sinful lifestyle. Faith that Justifies us Before God      Our righteous standing before God starts the moment we believe in Jesus as our Savior. This is the Jesus of Scripture and history, and not a fake Jesus like those taught by Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, or one we create in our imagination. Jesus is the second Person of the Trinity; He is God in the flesh (John 1:1, 14; 20:28; Col 2:9). Prior to His incarnation, God the Son was involved in planning our salvation with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. God the Father sent God the Son into the world to fulfill a divine mission. God's Word tells us, “The Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world” (1 John 4:14; cf., John 4:34; 7:29; 8:29; 20:21). The Father's great mission was to make salvation available to everyone. This act of God was done in love, as it is written, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16), and “He loved us and sent His Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 4:10; cf., Rom 5:8). The Son agreed with the Father, saying, “I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 6:38), and “The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). When God the Son came into the world and took upon Himself humanity, He executed His mission flawlessly.      The divine mission began in time and space nearly two thousand years ago when God the Son took upon Himself humanity. The writer to the Hebrews cites the words of God the Son as He was about to enter the world, saying, “Therefore, when He comes into the world, He says [to God the Father], ‘Sacrifice and offering You have not desired, but a body You have prepared for Me'” (Heb 10:5). The third Person of the Trinity, God the Holy Spirit, facilitated the mission by bringing about the hypostatic union within the womb of the virgin Mary (Isa 7:14; Luke 1:30-35; Gal 4:4). The angel Gabriel told Mary, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God” (Luke 1:35). At the moment of conception in the womb of the virgin Mary, undiminished deity was combined forever with perfect humanity. Eventually, Jesus was born, and God “became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). The apostle Paul tells us, “For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form” (Col 2:9).      God's Word also informs us that Jesus was a Jew, born a son of Abraham, in the line of David (Matt 1:1), the promised Messiah (Matt 1:1, 16-17; John 1:41). Jesus grew in human wisdom (Luke 2:40, 52) and lived a perfectly righteous life before God and man. The record of Scripture is that Jesus “knew no sin” (2 Cor 5:21), was “without sin” (Heb 4:15), “committed no sin” (1 Pet 2:22), and “in Him there is no sin” (1 John 3:5). In His humanity, Jesus walked in perfect conformity to God the Father's holy character and divine revelation. This is important, for Jesus' sinless life qualified Him to go to the cross and pay the ransom price for our sins. Jesus said, “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).      When the divinely appointed time came for Jesus to go to the cross (John 12:23; 13:1), He went willingly (Isa 53:10; John 10:18). Just hours before the crucifixion, Jesus said to His Father, “I glorified You on the earth, having accomplished the work which You have given Me to do” (John 17:4). Then He went to the cross and “offered Himself without blemish to God” (Heb 9:14), and “gave Himself for our sins” (Gal 1:4). Jesus paid our sin debt by means of His “precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ” (1 Pet 1:19). While on the cross, “Christ died for our sins” (1 Cor 15:3), and He died in our place, “the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God” (1 Pet 3:18).      Jesus' death on the cross was a one-time event, as He “offered one sacrifice for sins for all time” (Heb 10:12). After Jesus paid for all our sins, “He said, ‘It is finished!' And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit” (John 19:30). Jesus' death on the cross satisfied every righteous demand of God the Father concerning the payment for our sins (Rom 3:25), for “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2). Jesus paid the price for all our sins. There's nothing more to pay. After Jesus died, He was placed in a grave and was resurrected to life on the third day (Acts 2:23-24; 4:10; 10:40; 1 Cor 15:3-4), never to die again (Rom 6:9). Because Christ died for everyone (John 3:16; Heb 2:9; 1 John 2:2), everyone is savable. The Bible tells us that God has brought “salvation to all men” (Tit 2:11), that He “desires all men to be saved” (1 Tim 2:4), and is “not wishing for any to perish” (2 Pet 3:9).      Once we understand who Christ is, as God in the flesh (John 1:1, 14), and what He has accomplished for us on the cross—having died for our sins, was buried, and raised again on the third day (1 Cor 15:3-4)—we can then exercise our faith by trusting in Him as our Savior. To receive salvation, the unbeliever is told to “believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31a). Jesus is the object of our faith. To believe in Christ as our Savior means we trust Him to accomplish for us what we cannot accomplish ourselves: eternal salvation from the lake of fire.      Faith in Christ is the only condition for salvation. Faith does not save; Christ saves. Faith is merely the instrument by which we receive the free gift of God, which is eternal life. Though the gift was very expensive for the Lord, it is offered totally free to us, for “the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom 6:23). And it is “by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph 2:8-9). Only the empty hand of faith accepts the gift. It offers nothing but is open to receive that which is offered by another. God's gift is available to everyone, for “whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16), and “he who believes has eternal life” (John 6:47). No payment is required from us to receive it. It's a free gift.      The only sin that keeps a person out of heaven is the sin of unbelief, the individual choice NOT to trust in Jesus as one's Savior. The one who rejects Jesus as Savior is judged by God on the sole ground that “he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God” (John 3:18). These are the ones who “are always resisting the Holy Spirit” (Acts 7:51; cf. John 16:8), who “do not believe” in Jesus as their Savior (John 16:9), and “are unwilling to come” to Him so that they “may have life” (John 5:40). Those who willingly reject Christ as Savior will, after death, experience eternal separation and punishment away from God for all eternity, for “if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire” (Rev 20:15). This need not happen. Hell is avoidable for the one who trusts in Christ as Savior, for “whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16), and “He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not believe in the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him” (John 3:36). Salvation is a free gift from God (Rom 3:24; 6:23), offered by grace alone (Eph 2:8-9), through faith alone (Gal 2:16; 3:26; 2 Tim 3:15), in Christ alone (John 14:6; Acts 4:12), totally apart from human works (Rom 4:4-5; Eph 2:8-9; Tit 3:5). For lost sinners, the matter is simple: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).      Once we have trusted in Christ for salvation, God then bestows on us forgiveness of sins (Acts 10:43; Eph 1:7), the gift of righteousness (Rom 5:17; Phil 3:9), eternal life (John 10:28), and many other blessings (Eph 1:3). And having entered into a relationship with God through Christ (John 1:12; Gal 3:26), we are then called to a life of holiness and righteousness (1 Pet 1:15-16), as we learn His Word (2 Tim 2:15; 3:16-17; 1 Pet 2:2; 2 Pet 3:18), walk by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38), and advance to spiritual maturity (Heb 6:1). This new walk with God will honor Him and edify others (Eph 4:1-2; 5:1-2). Dr. Steven R. Cook

Joy and suffering—our culture sees them as opposites, but Paul's letter to the Philippians tells a different story. Writing from a Roman prison, Paul proclaims a joy unshaken by chains, trials, or hardship. How? Because Christ, the true source of lasting joy, dwelled in him. In this episode, we unpack Philippians 1:1-11 and discover how gospel partnership, prayer, and God's ongoing work in us transform the way we experience joy—even in the darkest moments. Check out the rest of our Understanding Series: https://www.fouroaksmidtown.com/teachings Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@fouroakschurchmidtown1962

Because Christ is our perfect King and High Priest, we will live in the presence of the LORD in perfect peace and prosperity without any guilt or shame for all eternity.

About the Guest:Josh Cook is a former police officer and the founder of Enter the Lion, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to supporting first responders and military personnel. After experiencing personal struggles with trauma while working as a police officer, Josh was inspired to create a community that offers spiritual and emotional support to others in similar positions. He now focuses full-time on this ministry, running retreats and programs aimed at healing and equipping those in service fields. Josh is also pursuing a degree in counseling to further enhance the support he offers through Enter the Lion.Episode Summary:In this enlightening episode, Colin Johnson welcomes Josh Cook, the founder of Enter the Lion, to the Johnson City Living podcast. Despite the frigid winter weather, they delve into Josh's inspiring journey from being a police officer in Maryland to leading a nonprofit ministry based in Johnson City focused on supporting first responders and military personnel. With a focus on healing and faith, Josh shares the motivation behind his transition and the events that spurred the establishment of Enter the Lion, a nonprofit organization that helps service members with their mental and spiritual health through retreats and community support.Colin and Josh explore the nuances of hearing the calling of God and the steps of obedience that led Josh to move to Johnson City and start the ministry. Josh highlights the unique challenges that come with trauma experienced in law enforcement and service roles, emphasizing the importance of community and faith in overcoming such hurdles. The episode touches on Josh's personal experience with trauma, the community built around Enter the Lion, and the life-changing impact it has on participants. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the call for supporting first responders through prayer and participation in local ministries.Key Takeaways:Josh Cook transitioned from a fulfilling career in law enforcement to establish Enter the Lion, a ministry aimed at helping first responders cope with trauma.The organization's name embodies their mission of encouraging service members to embrace their calling with courage and boldness.Enter the Lion offers free retreats across the country, providing spiritual support and community to first responders and military personnel in need.Josh is furthering his understanding of trauma and healing by pursuing a degree in counseling, which complements his ministry work.Community support, through prayer and resources, plays a crucial role in sustaining the ministry and helping it reach more individuals.Notable Quotes:"The Lord would ask us to be obedient and just submit to him, and then he would reveal kind of the next piece.""Because Christ died on the cross and was resurrected, he defeated our greatest enemy, which is death.""My husband's come home a different man. He's come home a different dad.""Every time you say yes to something, you say no to something else.""It's not my job to reach the nation, and I never will. But I can reach a few people for sure, and they can reach people."Resources:Enter the Lion WebsiteEnter the Lion on Social Media: Search for "Enter the Lion" for more information and engagement opportunities.Encourage listeners to tune into the full episode for a comprehensive insight into Josh Cook's impactful journey and the transformative work of Enter the Lion. Stay tuned for future episodes bringing more inspiring stories and discussions.

Because Christ has broken our bondage to the law and has bound us to Himself, we are free to love and serve God by the Spirit.

On this special Christmas Eve, Pastor Jack Graham brings the pertinent message, The Gifts that Keep on Giving. Because Christ has come, Pastor Graham teaches, it means God with us; it means God for us; it means God in us; and it means God through us. Today, he focuses on God through us and the giftings of the Holy Spirit. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/395/29

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:1 Peter 1-5 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome, dear ones, to the Daily Radio Bible! Today is December 16th, and I'm your host, Hunter. Together, we journey through the pages of the scriptures every day, aiming to read the entire Bible in a year. Today's reading focuses on the transformative power of God's love as conveyed in 1 Peter, chapters 1-5. We explore the themes of enduring trials, the value of faith, and the ultimate joy and glory that come with following Christ. Peter imparts wisdom on living holy lives, showing sincere love to one another, and embracing the trials that refine our faith like gold. He reminds us that our story ends with a divine embrace—God's unfathomable love exchanged for our betrayals. In an era of distancing, Peter's call for a "kiss of love" resonates as a metaphor for showing kindness and unity. Join me in a time of reflection and prayer, grounding ourselves in the promise that God's grace and strength will see us through. Let's embrace the joy that comes from knowing we are deeply loved by our Creator. So, dive in with me today as we let the scriptures speak love and hope into our lives. And remember, dear ones, you are loved. Let's begin. TODAY'S DEVOTION: This letter ends with a kiss. Peter admonishes the church to kiss one another, to offer each other a kiss of love. Christ offers us a kiss today too. Even in the reading of this word, we can receive a kiss of love, his embrace. We can receive the kindness that he offers us. That's what we have in Christ, and our story will end just like this letter ends, with a kiss and an embrace from him. Judas offered Jesus a kiss, but it was a kiss of betrayal. All of us have offered God that same kiss of betrayal in one way or another. We once were enemies of God opposed to him, but God was never opposed to us and he was never our enemy. And he does not deal with us as our sins deserve. He does not betray us as we have betrayed him. He does not even turn away from us in the wake of our betrayals. No. He does something absolutely scandalous. He offers us love in exchange for our betrayal. He doesn't pay back in kind. He gives us instead a kiss of love, and that love cost him. The price was paid not in silver and gold, but with his precious blood shed for all of us. The sinless spotless lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. Because Christ gave us a kiss of love for our betrayal, Peter says we must show sincere love for each other as brothers and sisters. You are cleansed from your sins when you obey the truth, so now, he says, you must show sincere love for each other. Love each other deeply with all your heart. That's verse 22. This letter ends with a kiss, so let's do that. I know that right now is kind of a strange time to be thinking about, let alone actually trying to do what the scriptures are admonishing us to do here. It might be a real long time before we offer each other a kiss of love at our churches, But there are other ways that we can. We can show kindness to each other. We can embrace each other regardless of our differences. We can we can do what Peter has said here. We can do what the spirit implores us to do even if for a while we have to hold back from actually physically kissing one another. But the point still stands, doesn't it? It does indeed. Christ offers us that kiss today. Go ahead and receive it. Allow yourself to receive that. You might cringe at first at the thought for a whole host of reasons, but just take a moment, will you? And receive god's kiss, god's embrace, of you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

We can and we must let Christ's kingship govern our lives even as we engage in the political world. Because Christ is King of our lives the transforming power of his love will forever change us, now and forever.

Because Christ died and rose again, we who are united to Him by faith will also rise from the grave to be in the presence of God.

Because Christ now lives in you, how should you then live? Coming up next, Ron shares four ways in which your life should reflect the power of Jesus Christ living in you. One of them may surprise you, but all of them will bless you. Stay with us now as Ron continues his teaching series, “Colossians: Jesus is Greater Than.”   --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/something-good-radio/support

Christians have a responsibility to vote! Here's Why:   Voting is your God-given duty and responsibility Voting impacts policies that impact people Because Christ is Lord, voting matters Because it's not too late to make a difference Get out to vote! 

Forgiven people forgive people. Because Christ has cancelled all of our debt at the cross we should also forgive those indebted to us. Fill out the Debt Ledger at https://coe22.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Debt-Ledger-Forgiveness-2024.pdf - The Church of Eleven22® is a movement for all people to discover and deepen a relationship with Jesus Christ. Eleven22 is led by Pastor Joby Martin and based in Jacksonville, Florida, with multiple campuses throughout Jacksonville and the surrounding areas. To find out more about how God is moving at Eleven22, go to CoE22.com

Revelation, Session Five Christ the Savior, Anderson SC Fr. Anthony Perkins Sources: The translation of the Apocalypse is from the Orthodox Study Bible. Lawrence R. Farley, The Apocalypse of St. John: A Revelation of Love and Power, The Orthodox Bible Study Companion (Chesterton, IN: Ancient Faith Publishing, 2011), Bishop Averky, The Epistles and the Apocalypse (Commentary on the Holy Scriptures of the New Testament, Volume III. (Holy Trinity Seminary Press, 2018). Andrew of Caesarea, Commentary on the Apocalypse, ed. David G. Hunter, trans. Eugenia Scarvelis Constantinou, vol. 123, The Fathers of the Church (Washington, DC: The Catholic University of America Press, 2011). Jack Norman Sparks, The Orthodox Study Bible: Notes (Thomas Nelson, 2008), 1712. Venerable Bede, The Explanation of the Apocalypse, trans. Edward Marshall (Oxford: James Parker and Co., 1878). William C. Weinrich, ed., Revelation, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2005). Review – from the Orthodox Study Bible Introduction and Blessing 1:1. The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave Him to show His servants – things which must shortly take place. And He sent and signified it by His angel to His servant John. 2. Who bore witness to the Word of God, and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, to all things that he saw. [speaking of the Gospel of St. John]  3.  Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near. Greeting to the Seven Churches 4.  John, to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne,  5.  and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth.  To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood,  6.  and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever.  Amen. (OSB) 7.  Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him.  And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him.  Even so, Amen. 8. “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, says the Lord (God), who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” 10.  I was in the Spirit on the Lord's Day and I heard behind me a loud voice, as of a trumpet,  11.  saying, “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last.” And, “What you see, write in a book and send it to the seven churches which are in Asia: to Ephesus, to Smyrna, to Pergamos, to Thyatira, to Sardis, to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea. 12-13.  Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me.  And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands, and in the midst of the seven lampstands One like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment  down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band.   New Material – from the Orthodox Study Bible 14-20.  His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire; His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters; He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength. And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last.  I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore.  Amen.  And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.  Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this.  The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches.   1:14. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire OSB.  Further, Christ is here described as God, His hair (v. 14) being that of Daniel's vision of God as the “Ancient of Days” (7:9; see also 1En 46:1). His eyes signify knowledge; His feet (v. 15), permanence and stability; His voice, authority or teaching; His right hand (v. 16), power; His two-edged sword, complete discernment. This imagery continues throughout Revelation to affirm the preexistence and eternal divinity of the Son of Man (see also Jn 1:1–18). Thus, in Christ man (v. 14) and God (vv. 15, 16) are united. St. Bede.  14. white. The antiquity and eternity of majesty are represented by whiteness on the head, to which all the chief ones adhere, as hairs, who, because of the sheep which are to be on the right hand are white, like wool, and because of the innumerable multitude of the white-robed and the elect, who come forth from heaven, are glistering like snow. eyes. The eyes of the Lord are preachers, who, with spiritual fire, bring light to the faithful, and to the unbelieving a consuming flame. Andrew of Caesarea. 1:14. His head and his hair were white as white wool, as snow, and his eyes as a flame of fire. For even though he is recent amidst us, nonetheless he is ancient; rather, he is before time. His white hair is a symbol of this. And his eyes are as a flame of fire, on the one hand, illuminating those who are holy and, on the other hand, burning the sacrilegious. 1:15.  His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters; OSB. 1:15 Dan 2:31–44 indicates this mysterious metal foundation not only provides stability but has the ability to forcibly crush all opposition as well. These images are contrasted with the feet of clay found in Dan 2:33, 43: the kingdoms of this world are not permanent, nor ultimately triumphant. St. Andrew of Caesarea.  1:15a. And his feet were like glowing brass, red-hot as in a furnace. [21] The divine Gregory also understood that the feet meant the divine condescension through the flesh. For his feet by treading on the divinity achieved our salvation. The feet are also the foundations of the Church, like glowing brass, which physicians say is a sweet-smelling incense, which they call masculine incense. Or otherwise: On the one hand, meaning the human nature by the glowing brass, and on the other hand the divine nature by the incense, through both of which is also shown the sweetness of the faith and the unconfused union . Or the fine brass signifies the beautiful melody of the gospel proclamation, and the incense is the return of the nations by which the bride is summoned. And the feet of Christ are also the apostles, who have been tested by fire in the furnace of trials in imitation of their Teacher. 1:15b. And his voice like the sound of many waters. Naturally. His voice is in common with that of the Spirit, from which “rivers of living water flowed from the belly” of the faithful, and it made a penetrating sound over all the earth.   St. Bede.   15. feet. By the “fiery feet” he means the Church of the last time, which is to be searched and proved by severe afflictions. For orichalcum is brass, which, by much fire and various ingredients, is brought to the colour of gold. Another translation, which renders it, “like orichalcum of Lebanon,” signifies that in Judæa, of which Lebanon is a mountain, the Church will be persecuted, and especially at the last. The temple also frequently received the name of Lebanon, as there is said to ito, “Open, O Lebanon, thy gates, and let the fire devour thy cedars.” voice. The voice of confession, and preaching, and praise does not resound in Judæa alone, but among many peoples. 1:16.  He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength. OSB: 1:16 The Lord holds the stars that represent the seven churches (1:20), and hence, the Church. For Christ is Lord of the Church. In His just judgment, the sword He wields is the Word of God, which cuts effortlessly to the very marrow and heart of humanity (see 2:16; 18:15; Is 11:4; 49:2; WSol 18:15; Eph 6:17; 2Th 2:9; Heb 4:12). The brilliance of His face recalls the Uncreated Light John saw radiating from the Savior at the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor. Andrew of Caesarea. 1:16. And he had in his right hand seven stars, and coming out from his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword, and his appearance as the sun shines in its power. [22] Further down he says that the seven stars are the seven angels of the churches. The sharp, double-edged sword means his decision against the wicked, “sharper than any two-edged sword,” or the sword of the Spirit circumcising our inner man.38 Like the sun his face shines, not in a splendor to the senses, but to the intellect. For he is the “sun of righteousness,” shining with his own power and authority, not like the sensory sun, which as a created object by God-given power and divine command.   St. Bede. 16. right hand. In the right hand of Christ is the spiritual Church. “On Thy right hand,” he says, “stood the queen in a vesture of gold.” And as it stands on His right hand, He saithq, “Come, ye blessed of My Father, receive the kingdom.” mouth. He, the Judge of all things visible and invisible, “after He has killed, has power to cast into hell fire.” countenance. Such as the Lord appeared on the Mount, will He appear after the judgment to all the saints, for at the judgment the ungodly will behold Him Whom they pierced. But all this appearance of the Son of Man belongs also to the Church, for He Himself was made the Christ in the same nature with it, and He gives to it a sacerdotal dignity and a judicial power, and to “shine as the sun in the kingdom of His Father.” 1:17-18. And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore.  Amen.   OSB. 1:17, 18 Mortal humanity cannot bear the revelation of divine glory, a frequent biblical theme (see Ex 19:21; 33:20; Is 6:5). Just as he fell prostrate at Mount Tabor (Mt 17:6), so also does John here, in the presence of the glorified Savior (see Ezk 1:27; Dan 10:7–9; see also 1En 14:24). Do not be afraid is a revelatory formula from the OT. As a signal for the theophany, it was carried over into the NT (see the Annunciation, Lk 1:30; Jesus walking upon the water, Mt 14:27—“Fear not, I AM”; the Transfiguration, Mt 17:7). In the OT God was called “the first and the last” (Is 44:6; 48:12), and so, too, is the Messiah. Some early heresies (e.g. Docetism) held that Jesus only seemed to die. But the Lord Himself testified, I … was dead, affirming the authenticity of His death; alive forevermore, His Resurrection—the power of which effects His lordship over death and its realm. The Orthodox icon of the resurrected Christ depicts Him with these keys (v. 18) in hand, standing triumphantly on the open gates of Hades. Fr. John Farley.  Like those receiving such theophanic appearances in Old Testament days (e.g. Ezek. 1:28; Dan. 8:17), John fell at His feet as if dead. Even though he had leaned in familiarity upon His breast at the Last Supper (John 13:23), yet such is the power of the Lord in His heavenly exaltation that even the beloved disciple is overwhelmed. The Lord restores him in preparation to write the things he has seen and will see. He tells John, “Do not be afraid,” and in this He tells all of John's churches not to fear. They need not fear death, martyrdom, or anything in all the world. Why? Because Christ has overcome the world, trampling down death by death. He became dead, but now He is alive to ages of ages. As such, He is the first and the last, sovereign over all (compare God as the Alpha and Omega in 1:8) and the Living One, the source of all life. He had authority over death and Hades by His Resurrection. Death cannot now separate us from Him, for He is Lord of both the living and the dead. St. Andrew of Caesarea.  Christ revived the Apostle himself who had suffered through the weakness of human nature like Joshua son of Nun and Daniel, by saying to him, “Do not fear, for I have not come near to kill you, since I am beginningless and endless, having become dead for your sakes.” 1:18b. And I have the keys of Hades and of death. [23] Instead , he has authority over bodily and spiritual death. St. Bede.  17.  I fell. As a man, he trembles at the spiritual vision, but his human fear is banished by the clemency of the Lord. the first. He is the first, because “by Him were all things made;” the last, because in Him are all things restoredu. 18. keys. Not only, He saith, have I conquered death by resurrection, but I have dominion also over death itself. And this He also bestowed upon the Church by breathing upon it the Holy Spirit, saying, “Whose sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them,” and the rest. 1:19.  And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.  Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this.   OSB.  John's visions have to do with both the present (things which are) and the future. Fr. John Finlay.  Then Christ gives John a command: he is to write the things which he has seen, and the things which are, and the things which are about to happen after these things and send them to the main churches under his care in Asia. (From these seven main locations, they could be sent out to other smaller church communities as well.) This gives a basic outline of the Book of Revelation as a whole: it relates what John has seen (the vision of Christ in ch. 1), the things which are (the present state of the churches, described in chs. 2–3), and the things which are about to happen in the future (the prophecies of chs. 4–22). St. Andrew of Caesarea.  [nothing] St. Bede.  Reveal to all the things which thou alone hast seen, that is, the various labours of the Church, and that the evil are to be mingled in it with the good unto the end of the world. 1:20.  The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden lampstands: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands which you saw are the seven churches. OSB. The angels of the seven churches have been variously interpreted as being (1) the guardian angels of the church communities; (2) the pastoral leadership of these local churches; (3) a personification of the prevailing spirit of the given congregations; or (4) simply the messengers responsible for delivering the letters. The term “angel” (heavenly or earthly messenger) is used over 60 times in Revelation. Fr. John Farley.  The introduction concludes with an explanation of the meaning of the seven stars in His hand and the seven lampstands among which He stands. The seven lampstands are the seven churches of Asia, and the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches. This is a reference to what may be termed the individual corporate personality of each church community. Each local church is thus portrayed as having an angel, even as each person has his guardian angel. Just as a person's guardian angel resembles that person (see those who reacted to the announcement that Peter was standing unexpectedly at the door by suggesting that it was not Peter but his angel; Acts 12:15), so the church's angel sums up and embodies the local church. The angel of the church is an image of the strengths and weaknesses of each church. In writing to the angel of the church of Ephesus, the Lord actually speaks to the church of Ephesus in its corporate aspect. We see this today as well, in that church communities have corporate characteristics—some are loving, some judgmental, some zealous, some lax. The reference to each church's “angel” is a way of addressing each community as a community, using the language of the apocalyptic. St. Andrew of Caesarea.  Since Christ is the “true light,” because of this, those abundant in his light are lamps as they shine in the night of this present life. Naturally, the churches are called lampstands, because, as the luminaries, they “have the word of life” according to the Apostle. The lamps and lampstands are gold because of the honor and purity of the faith in them. An angel has stood guard for each of these, just as the Lord says,44 and Gregory the Theologian had understood the present chapter: he figuratively called them “stars” because of the brightness and clarity of their nature. St. Bede.   stars. That is, the rulers of the Church. For the priest, as Malachi says, is “the angel of the Lord of hosts.” Malachi 2:7.  “for the lips of a priest should keep knowledge, and people should seek the law from his mouth, for he is the messenger (malakh/angel) of the Lord Almighty.”  

It’s safe to say that we are all the way into this “Atmosphere Matters” business and this Sunday will be another of my favorites: “Get a New Watch.” As with all the principles there is something of a paradox in this principle. Why? Because Christ himself was a walking paradox. The God-Man was not easy to understand even though his atmosphere resonated as true, good, and home. * CONNECT CARD -- https://siderischurch.com/connectcard * MAKE A BIG DECISION -- https://siderischurch.com/baptism * GOSPEL RESOURCES -- https://siderischurch.com/resources

As St. Paul begins to conclude his letter to the Ephesians, he reminds Christians of the gift of new clothing in Holy Baptism. In the Lord's strength, this new clothing is armor that equips Christians to stand against the attacks of the devil. As St. Paul writes concerning each piece of armor, he encourages Christians to know the mighty protection God gives to us against our spiritual enemies. Because Christ has triumphed, so does His Church, for we are in Him.  Rev. Isaac Schuller, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Ephesians 6:10-17.  "One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the epistle to the Ephesians. St. Paul highlights the salvation that God has given to His whole Church by His grace through faith. Because God has given His people this new life in Holy Baptism, we live in thanksgiving to Him as members of one body.