Podcasts about because god

Physical hunger is not your only craving. You also possess a spiritual hunger. This appetite also cries out to be fed. Both types of hunger were created by God. Physical hunger can only be satisfied by food. Spiritual hunger can only be satisfied by God.Main Points:1.  You have a longing in your soul for God. Many feel the yearning but do not recognize that it is spiritual in nature. They feel a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction with life. So many people are thinking, “There must be something more to life. What am I missing?”2. In an attempt to satisfy their hunger, they go on a search. Attempts are made to gratify this spiritual emptiness with temporary, earthly things, only to be left with greater hunger.3. So, let me give you the good news. Only Jesus can satisfy our spiritual hunger. Why? Because God designed us in such a way. Only God can fill the void in our souls. A relationship with Jesus is so nourishing and so satisfying that we will wonder why we neglected Him for so long. We will wonder why we bought into the deception of this world that it could offer what we needed.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 107:9 - “For He satisfies the longing soul, And fills the hungry soul with goodness.”Matthew 5:6 - “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Kazuto and his wife Migiwa waited with trepidation for the ultrasound exam results. Migiwa’s liver had been failing for more than nine months, and she urgently needed a liver transplant. Kazuto could donate a portion of his liver to his wife, but there was one condition: Migiwa’s heart had to be strong. The last ultrasound had shown slight improvement to her heart. Would it show more this time? To their disappointment, the results were the worst yet. Kazuto shared: “After I comforted my crying wife, I also cried by myself. But . . . waiting isn’t a waste of time because God is nurturing something wonderful . . . while we wait, even though we can’t see anything on the surface.” Kazuto’s confidence in God paralleled that of King David, who wrote, “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:14). Because God is our “light”, “salvation”, and “stronghold” (v. 1), we can trust Him to offer hope amid darkness (v. 3), comfort us during our trials (v. 13), and secure us safely in “his dwelling” (v. 5). When God seems to delay in answering our prayers, we can still put our complete trust in His unchanging attributes. As we bring our heartaches to Him, let’s also instruct our hearts: “Be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (v. 14). He is with us and always working for our good.

Grace Upon GraceAugust 2, 2026 • Greg Pinkner • Ephesians 1:3–18This Gospel Sunday, Greg Pinkner teaches from Ephesians 1, explaining that grace is the foundation of the Christian life—extending from before creation, meeting us at salvation, and carrying us into eternity. Salvation cannot be earned through good works because it is entirely God's gift, given for the praise of His glory. While Christians often focus on the grace that saved them in the past, the gospel also promises future grace through the Holy Spirit, spiritual growth, resurrection, and an eternal inheritance with God. Discipleship is the ongoing process of learning to live in this grace, trusting God through sin, weakness, suffering, and the difficulties of following Christ. Because God's promises are secured by His power and glory, believers can have an unshakable hope that there is more grace ahead of them than behind them and that God will faithfully bring them home.WEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“There is no duty we so much underrate as the duty of being happy.”~Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894), Scottish writer “God's goodness is a communicative, spreading goodness…. If God had not a communicative, spreading goodness, he would never have created the world. The Father, Son and Holy Ghost were happy in themselves and enjoyed one another before the world was. But that God delights to communicate and spread his goodness, there had never been a creation nor a redemption. God useth his creatures not for defect of power, that he can do nothing without them, but for the spreading of his goodness.”~Richard Sibbes (1577-1635), Anglican-Puritan theologian “So why did God create? Because God delights to spread His goodness. In other words, He is like a sun of goodness, blazing out with love. God didn't create because He needed to, because of any lack. He created because He was so happily bursting with goodness. God is so overflowingly, superabundantly full of life in Himself that He delighted to spread His goodness. His innermost Being is a sun of light, life, and warmth, always shining out; radiant and outgoing!”~Michael Reeves, theology professor and author “God is wonderfully generous by nature; to give is His delight. His gifts are immeasurably precious and are given as freely as the light of the sun. He gives grace to His own because He wills it, to His redeemed because of His covenant, to the called because of His promise, to believers because they seek it, to sinners because they need it. He gives grace abundantly, seasonably, constantly, readily, sovereignly; the value of the blessings is doubled by the manner in which it is given.”~C.H. Spurgeon (1834-1892), famed London preacher “You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.”~Amy Carmichael (1867-1951), Irish writer and missionary to India “The unselfish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for ourselves.”~Helen Keller (1880-1968), author and activist “Generosity is giving more than you can, and pride is taking less than you need.”~Khalil Gibran (1883-1931), Lebanese writer, poet, and artistSERMON PASSAGENumbers 6 (NASB95)24 The Lord bless you, and keep you;25 The Lord make His face shine on you,   And be gracious to you;26 The Lord lift up His countenance on you,   And give you peace.' Psalm 67 (NASB95)1 God be gracious to us and bless us,  And cause His face to shine upon us—          Selah.2 That Your way may be known on the earth,  Your salvation among all nations.3 Let the peoples praise You, O God;  Let all the peoples praise You. 4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy;  For You will judge the peoples with uprightness  And guide the nations on the earth.                  Selah.5 Let the peoples praise You, O God;  Let all the peoples praise You. 6 The earth has yielded its produce;  God, our God, blesses us.7 God blesses us,  That all the ends of the earth may fear Him.Revelation 7 9 After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; 10 and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” Revelation 22 1 Then he showed me a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb, 2 in the middle of its street. On either side of the river was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 3 There will no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His bond-servants will serve Him; 4 they will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads. 5 And there will no longer be any night; and they will not have need of the light of a lamp nor the light of the sun, because the Lord God will illumine them; and they will reign forever and ever. Matthew 28 18 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Because God the Father loves and cares for each one of His children, we should not despise but love and care for each other when we go astray.

Because God's Word is our sufficient authority, believers must hold fast to it so that we may mature in the faith and be equipped for every good work.

Because God the Father loves and cares for each one of His children, we should not despise but love and care for each other when we go astray.

Proverbs 21 teaches that every leader, circumstance, and outcome remains under the sovereign authority of God. Although people may believe their actions are right, the Lord weighs the heart and calls His people to righteousness, justice, humility, generosity, and trust. In this episode, Dave Jenkins explains why righteousness is more acceptable to God than outward religious activity, how pride and selfishness lead to destruction, why God's justice is certain, and why true security cannot be found in human wisdom, preparation, or strength. We may prepare the horse for battle, but victory belongs to the Lord. Because God rules over all things, Christians can walk faithfully, pursue what is right, and rest confidently in His sovereign purposes. For more episodes of Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/reading-the-bible-daily-with-dave/

Proverbs 21 teaches that every leader, circumstance, and outcome remains under the sovereign authority of God. Although people may believe their actions are right, the Lord weighs the heart and calls His people to righteousness, justice, humility, generosity, and trust. In this episode, Dave Jenkins explains why righteousness is more acceptable to God than outward religious activity, how pride and selfishness lead to destruction, why God's justice is certain, and why true security cannot be found in human wisdom, preparation, or strength. We may prepare the horse for battle, but victory belongs to the Lord. Because God rules over all things, Christians can walk faithfully, pursue what is right, and rest confidently in His sovereign purposes. For more episodes of Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/reading-the-bible-daily-with-dave/

Why should God's people remain confident when the world seems consumed by conflict and uncertainty? Amos 1 and 2 remind us that God is always in control, even when the world is filled with violence, injustice, and uncertainty. He sees everything that happens, judges every nation with perfect justice, and remains faithful to every promise He has made. Because God rules over all people and all nations, believers do not have to live in fear. Instead, we can trust His sovereign plan, rest in His faithful care, and find confidence in His unchanging character. As we study His Word, our faith grows stronger and we are better prepared to stand faithfully, no matter what the future brings. During this class Dr. Dean referenced Raymond Ibrahim, a Coptic Christian, who has great insight into Islam. Check out his Substack page.

Send us Fan MailIt is better to be righteous than it is to be right. Therefore, put on the breastplate of righteousness. Ephesians 6:14b.Hello and welcome to CGM Presents: In the Word. This is Episode 14, Spiritual Warfare Scriptures, Season 14.Our spiritual warfare scripture for this episode is Ephesians 6:14b. Put on the breastplate of righteousness.I attended an event with a group of ladies, and one of the women made the statement. “It is better to be righteous than it is to be right.” I do not recall to whom the statement was originally attributed and could not find the author after researching the quote.Nevertheless, it is a powerful statement which caused me to think about what righteousness means in the biblical sense. Why is it better to be righteous rather than to be right? Because God is righteous, Jesus exemplified righteousness when He was on earth, and the Holy Spirit gives us the power to live righteously.My simple definition of God's righteousness is that He always does what is right. He does what is right, holy, faithful, and true. Here are just a few of the over 500 scriptures derived from the root word “righteous” or “righteousness” in the Bible.Psalm 11:7 — “For the Lord is righteous; he loves righteous deeds.”Psalm 97:2 — “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.”Psalm 119:137 — “Righteous are you, O Lord, and right are your rules.”Psalm 145:17 — “The Lord is righteous in all his ways.”Deuteronomy 32:4 — “A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright ishe.”Daniel 9:14 — “The Lord our God is righteous in all the works that he has done.”Romans 1:17 — “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith.”Romans 3:21–22 — “The righteousness of God has been manifested apart from thelaw… through faith in Jesus Christ.” God is righteous, and because he is righteous, he expects us to be righteous, and when we are righteous, we are able to wage spiritual warfare more effectively. Let's consider the breastplate of God's righteousness.The breastplate in the military sense was a metal vest that guarded the vital organs, in particular the heart. In comparison, the breastplate of righteousness is the spiritual armor that protects the heart and vital organs from spiritual attacks designed against you. It is your Holy Ghost armor.The Holy Spirit uses the breastplate of God's righteousness to cover your heart from attacks that prevent you from waging spiritual warfare. Whatever you are going through right now, you can focus on the spiritual fight instead of being concerned about other influences because God has your heart covered. Proverbs 4:23 tells us, "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."Desiring righteousness will make you want to serve God and be pleasing to Him; being righteous will help you to walk more closely with God. It will make you want to be more like God. We have a tendency as human beings to want to be right. Nobody really wants to be wrong, and it's very difficult for us to admit when we are wrong.Basically, we would prefer to always be right or right most of the time; consequently, because we have difficulty admitting when we are wrong, it could cause us to be puffed up and not be humble. Humility, as we have already discussed in a previous podcast, is important. So, righteousness keeps us humble as well because righteousness takes precedence over being right. So, the next time you want to be right about something, ask yourself the question, is it righteous? If the answer is “no” tighten up your righteousness breastplate and move forward into the next spiritual warfare battle.  Thank you for joining us today. Now, Dr. Charles Wright will close us out with information on how you may contact us and access other podcasts.Until next time.If you want to contact us or comment on this podcast, please visit our website and select www.cgmissions.com/podcasts, where all episodes are available by category in series format. You can see some video and audio podcasts at: www.youtube.com/@cgmissionsinc then select from the video or podcast"Playlist."   CGM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Donations may be made on our website:https://www.cgmissions.com/donate-here-general-and-wecare/

I greet you in Jesus' precious name! It is Thursday morning, the 30th of July, 2026, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today. We go to the Book of Deuteronomy 28:13: “And the Lord will make you the head and not the tail…” Isn't that a lovely blessing? The Lord will make you, Sir, the head and not the tail, young lady, the head and not the tail. Why? Because if you love Him with all your heart and you obey the statutes that He has put before you, these are the consequences.Many things you can read right from verse 1: He will give you the fruit of your body, He will bless you to have many children, He will make you a name in the marketplace, He will increase your livestock, He will increase your ability to bless others by your lifestyle. We need to understand that the Lord loves us unconditionally. However, there are consequences for those who refuse to obey His commandments and then expect Him to bless them. That will not happen and cannot happen. I have seen it happen too many times in my own life, especially as a farmer, sometimes catastrophically. We have almost been wiped out by hail and I have said, “Lord, where is the blessing in all this?” And yet He has turned it around for good.I remember one year, maybe I have told you this story before, where I got my planting machine all mixed up and the seed came out and the maize germinated. There were huge gaps in the crop and I thought, “Lord, I asked you please to help me.” The stand, the population of the maize crop was so poor, I thought that I had just about declared myself bankrupt and yet that particular year we had one of the worst droughts in our area that we have ever had, and what happened? The maize crop spread out and there was plenty of room for the plants to grow. Instead of having normal cobs, they were gigantic, and as the farmers know, you don't get paid on volume, you get paid on weight! When I took that crop to the silos and they put it on the weigh-bridge, they couldn't believe the weight of the maize. That year I made more money than in years when I had everything in order. Why? Because God takes the tail and He makes it into the head if you are doing things His way!Just remain faithful, just remain steadfast. I am saying to that young girl who is desperately trying to have a baby - her and her husband just cannot fall pregnant, continue to obey God, love Him, trust Him, and your baby will come. I have got testimonies from all over the world of women who just could not conceive and yet with perseverance, the love of God, and the desire to do things right, Jesus blessed them eventually. God bless you and have a wonderful day and remember, you are the head and not the tail!Goodbye.

Proverbs 20 teaches that biblical wisdom is revealed through integrity, self-control, honesty, justice, and consistent godly character. In this episode of Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, Dave Jenkins explains why wisdom must shape both our private character and public conduct. Proverbs 20 warns against drunkenness, dishonest business practices, slander, rash commitments, personal vengeance, and other expressions of foolishness. This chapter also reminds us that the Lord directs our steps, searches the deepest parts of our hearts, and judges with perfect righteousness. Because God sees and governs every part of our lives, His people are called to walk honestly, exercise self-control, trust Him with justice, and pursue enduring faithfulness. Jesus Christ perfectly demonstrated the integrity, justice, mercy, righteousness, and self-control that we lack. Through faith in Him, our sins are forgiven, our hearts are transformed, and we are empowered by grace to walk in wisdom. For more episodes of Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/reading-the-bible-daily-with-dave/

Proverbs 20 teaches that biblical wisdom is revealed through integrity, self-control, honesty, justice, and consistent godly character. In this episode of Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, Dave Jenkins explains why wisdom must shape both our private character and public conduct. Proverbs 20 warns against drunkenness, dishonest business practices, slander, rash commitments, personal vengeance, and other expressions of foolishness. This chapter also reminds us that the Lord directs our steps, searches the deepest parts of our hearts, and judges with perfect righteousness. Because God sees and governs every part of our lives, His people are called to walk honestly, exercise self-control, trust Him with justice, and pursue enduring faithfulness. Jesus Christ perfectly demonstrated the integrity, justice, mercy, righteousness, and self-control that we lack. Through faith in Him, our sins are forgiven, our hearts are transformed, and we are empowered by grace to walk in wisdom. For more episodes of Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/reading-the-bible-daily-with-dave/

Why should God's people remain confident when the world seems consumed by conflict and uncertainty? Amos 1 and 2 remind us that God is always in control, even when the world is filled with violence, injustice, and uncertainty. He sees everything that happens, judges every nation with perfect justice, and remains faithful to every promise He has made. Because God rules over all people and all nations, believers do not have to live in fear. Instead, we can trust His sovereign plan, rest in His faithful care, and find confidence in His unchanging character. As we study His Word, our faith grows stronger and we are better prepared to stand faithfully, no matter what the future brings.

Why should God's people remain confident when the world seems consumed by conflict and uncertainty? Amos 1 and 2 remind us that God is always in control, even when the world is filled with violence, injustice, and uncertainty. He sees everything that happens, judges every nation with perfect justice, and remains faithful to every promise He has made. Because God rules over all people and all nations, believers do not have to live in fear. Instead, we can trust His sovereign plan, rest in His faithful care, and find confidence in His unchanging character. As we study His Word, our faith grows stronger and we are better prepared to stand faithfully, no matter what the future brings.

After sixteen studies, we arrive at the final and perhaps most profound statement in 1 Corinthians 13: “Love never ends.” (1 Corinthians 13:8) As we conclude the Love Like God Bible study, we discover that while achievements fade, possessions wear out, and even spiritual gifts serve a temporary purpose, God’s love remains forever . Because God is eternal, His love is eternal. And every act of Christ-like love becomes an investment that will outlast this present world. In this final session you’ll discover: • Why Paul says love never ends. • What will remain after everything else passes away. • Why love is the only eternal investment you can make today. • Practical ways to build your life around what truly lasts forever. Whether you’ve joined us for every lesson or this is your first time watching, I hope this study encourages you to pursue the kind of love that reflects the very heart of God. Thank you for being part of this journey through Love Like God. It has been a joy to study God’s Word together, and I pray these truths continue to shape your walk with Christ for years to com

What you believe about God affects every part of your life. Today, Joel Kim opens a beloved passage of Scripture that displays the Lord's glorious character. Because God is faithful, powerful, and good, we are safe in His hands. Give today to receive Heroes of the Christian Faith, a new hardcover book featuring teaching from R.C. Sproul. You'll also get the companion digital study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the Heroes of the Christian Faith ebook and digital study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   Joel Kim is a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow, president and assistant professor of New Testament at Westminster Seminary California in Escondido, CA, and a teaching elder in the Presbyterian Church in America. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

We are exploring Mark 5:35-42. In this passage, a 12-year-old girl dies while Jesus is on His way to heal her. After the father hears the bad news, Jesus tells him, "Be not afraid, only believe." The main revelation we are going to process from this text is that when we receive bad news about our vision, we are to not be afraid, but only believe. Because God anointing on our life overcomes bad news. __________ Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com __________    

Proverbs 20 teaches that biblical wisdom is revealed through integrity, self-control, honesty, justice, and consistent godly character. In this episode of Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, Dave Jenkins explains why wisdom must shape both private character and public conduct. Proverbs 20 warns against drunkenness, quarrelsomeness, laziness, deception, slander, rash commitments, dishonest dealings, and personal vengeance. The chapter also reminds us that the Lord directs our steps, searches our hearts, and judges with perfect righteousness. Because God sees and governs every part of life, His people are called to walk honestly, exercise restraint, entrust justice to Him, and pursue enduring faithfulness. Ultimately, Proverbs 20 points us to Jesus Christ, who perfectly demonstrated integrity, righteousness, justice, mercy, and self-control. Through faith in Him, our sins are forgiven, our hearts are transformed, and we are empowered by grace to live wisely before God and others. For more from Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/reading-the-bible-daily-with-dave/

God is not sustained, strengthened, completed, or supplied by anything outside Himself. He needs nothing because He is eternally and completely sufficient in Himself. In this episode of Equipping You in Grace, Dave Jenkins examines the self-sufficiency of God from Acts 17:24–25 and Psalm 50:10–12. He explains why God's independence does not make Him distant or uncaring. Instead, it makes His love, strength, faithfulness, and care completely secure. Because God is never depleted, weakened, or overwhelmed, Christians can rest in the truth that they are not sustaining God or holding His purposes together. The God who needs nothing is the God who freely loves, provides for, and faithfully sustains His people through Jesus Christ. Listeners will learn how God's self-sufficiency frees them from performance, strengthens their trust in Him, and leads them into reverent worship. For more from Equipping You in Grace, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/equipping-you-in-grace-2/

Proverbs 20 teaches that biblical wisdom is revealed through integrity, self-control, honesty, justice, and consistent godly character. In this episode of Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, Dave Jenkins explains why wisdom must shape both private character and public conduct. Proverbs 20 warns against drunkenness, quarrelsomeness, laziness, deception, slander, rash commitments, dishonest dealings, and personal vengeance. The chapter also reminds us that the Lord directs our steps, searches our hearts, and judges with perfect righteousness. Because God sees and governs every part of life, His people are called to walk honestly, exercise restraint, entrust justice to Him, and pursue enduring faithfulness. Ultimately, Proverbs 20 points us to Jesus Christ, who perfectly demonstrated integrity, righteousness, justice, mercy, and self-control. Through faith in Him, our sins are forgiven, our hearts are transformed, and we are empowered by grace to live wisely before God and others. For more from Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/reading-the-bible-daily-with-dave/

Because God has generously entrusted every believer with gifts, opportunities, and resources, faithfulness to Jesus means investing what you've been given - not burying it - so that His Kingdom grows.

God is not sustained, strengthened, completed, or supplied by anything outside Himself. He needs nothing because He is eternally and completely sufficient in Himself. In this episode of Equipping You in Grace, Dave Jenkins examines the self-sufficiency of God from Acts 17:24–25 and Psalm 50:10–12. He explains why God's independence does not make Him distant or uncaring. Instead, it makes His love, strength, faithfulness, and care completely secure. Because God is never depleted, weakened, or overwhelmed, Christians can rest in the truth that they are not sustaining God or holding His purposes together. The God who needs nothing is the God who freely loves, provides for, and faithfully sustains His people through Jesus Christ. Listeners will learn how God's self-sufficiency frees them from performance, strengthens their trust in Him, and leads them into reverent worship. For more from Equipping You in Grace, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/equipping-you-in-grace-2/

Read OnlineEntering and Becoming the House of GodJesus dismissed the crowds and went into the house. His disciples approached him and said, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field.” Matthew 13:36Today's Gospel begins with a subtle yet significant detail: “Jesus dismissed the crowds and went into the house.” This transition from the public to the private reflects a recurring pattern in the Gospels: Our Lord teaches the crowds in parables, veiling the mysteries of the Kingdom, while reserving their fuller explanation for the disciples in the quiet intimacy of the house. In this context, the house becomes a symbol of the Church—the inner sanctuary where Christ reveals His secrets to those who follow Him not only outwardly, but with humble faith and spiritual hunger.Though the disciples—likely the Twelve Apostles—were uniquely privileged to share this moment with Jesus, in which He explained the Parable of the Weeds among the Wheat in precise detail, this sacred setting is not closed to us. Each of us is invited into this “house” through the life of the Church. Though the Apostles were weak and sinful like all of us, they were nevertheless chosen to be the first bishops—visible shepherds who would continue Christ's mission after His Ascension. Through their fidelity, the Word of God went forth to the ends of the earth, a proclamation that continues today through their successors.While each of the baptized is called to proclaim the Gospel in accord with his or her vocation and mission, the bishops—and their co-workers, the priests—uniquely form the spiritual household through which Christ continues to speak with clarity. Through their preaching, governance, and sacramental ministry, the hidden mysteries of Christ's teaching are continually made known. This is not due to their personal merit, but because of the sacred office entrusted to them by Christ through Apostolic Succession. They became the foundation of the Church—the spiritual House of God—in which Jesus continues to minister.Place yourself in this Gospel scene. You, too, are called to draw near to Christ, to enter the house with Him, and to seek understanding with the heart of a disciple. In the Church—this household of faith—the Master still teaches, still explains, still reveals the mysteries of the Kingdom to those who desire to listen.As you prayerfully see yourself in this scene, unite it with your experience of your parish church and other sacred places where God has spoken to you, nourished you, and transformed you. When the Gospel changes us, the Sacraments nourish us, and the Church guides us, it is always Christ who is teaching, feeding, and leading. We must, therefore, learn to see beyond the minister or the building, recognizing Christ's presence, speaking to us and sanctifying us through His Church.Though the Church—the visible presence of the Kingdom of God on earth—is the privileged place where we encounter Christ, each of us, in our own unique way, is also called to be this “house” for others. Because God dwells within us, His Kingdom is present within our souls. Thus, this Gospel scene is not only about entering the house—it is also an invitation to become that house: a dwelling place where others may encounter Christ, hear His Word, receive His mercy, and be drawn into His love through the witness of our charity.Reflect today on this house. First, see the Church as the house in which Christ speaks to you most clearly. Give thanks for the many ways our Lord has spoken to you and fed you in this sacred House of God. Reflect also on your own soul as a dwelling place of God. Believe that Christ desires to use you to bring others into His presence, dwelling within your soul. Give thanks for this gift, and pray that you may be both a faithful disciple within the house and a radiant house of grace for others to enter and meet Christ our Lord.Most intimate Lord, You desire to reveal to me—and to all Your children—the deep and profound mysteries of Your Kingdom of grace. Draw me to Yourself, to Your House of Grace and Mercy, which resides within Your holy Church. Teach me, sanctify me, and form me according to Your holy will. As You make Your dwelling within me, make my soul a place where others may encounter You, hear Your Word, and receive Your grace. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Christ Taking Leave of the Apostles, by Duccio di BuoninsegnaSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Hard seasons have a way of making us wonder if we should take the easier path.In "Where Are You With Doing Hard Things? | Doing Hard Things During Hard Times," we discover that while the world tells us to avoid discomfort, Scripture invites us to embrace faithful obedience—even when life is difficult. James reminds us that hardship isn't something to fear or avoid. It's often the very place where God develops endurance, strengthens our faith, and shapes us into the people He's called us to become.Following Jesus has never been about choosing the path of least resistance. It's about trusting Him enough to obey, even when obedience is costly. The good news is that while God calls us to do hard things, He never expects us to do them in our own strength. Jesus offers His presence, His peace, and His strength to carry us through every season.In this sermon, you'll discover:Why God calls His people to do hard thingsHow we often make difficult seasons heavier than they need to beThe difference between carrying the weight of obedience and the burden of disobedienceWhat it means to take on the yoke of Jesus and find rest in HimHow God meets us with strength when we faithfully follow His leadingThe question isn't whether life will be hard, the question is: Who are you trusting to carry you through it?Because God never promised an easy road.He promised to walk with us every step of the way.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260727dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion “I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.” 1 Kings 3:7 Candor Here’s the setting for today’s Bible passage. The great King David is now an old man. The Lord has just anointed David’s son, Solomon, to be the next king of Israel. At this time, Solomon is about twenty years old. To be twenty years old is to be in a fantastic moment in your life. You’re an independent adult. Your physical and mental powers are at their peak. Countless possibilities lie before you. But this can also be a dangerous moment. For a variety of reasons, it can be easy to presume that you know much more than you really know. And ignorance, coupled with arrogance, can quickly open doors to all kinds of disaster. And so here is twenty-something Solomon. He has just experienced the indescribable thrill of becoming king. What to do first? One of the first things Solomon does is to speak to the Lord in profound candor. “I am only a little child, he prays. I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.” Candor in prayer. To talk to my God without candor is to run the ultimate fool’s errand. He is, after all, the One who has searched me and who knows me. To talk to my God without openly acknowledging my frailties, my weaknesses, my sinful flaws—to talk to him in such a way is not only an insult to him; it robs me of the assurance of forgiveness, comfort, and strength that my Savior purchased for me at Calvary’s cross. Which brings us to the beautiful truth we possess through the power of the good news of Jesus Christ. Because God the Son has lived a perfect life on my behalf; washed my every sin away through his suffering and death, and risen from the tomb, I now have the priceless privilege to speaking to God without fear. I can speak to him in the greatest of openness. I can talk to him in candor about anything. For through faith in the Messiah, I am secure. I am his. Prayer: Lord, through faith in your blood I am secure in you. Move me to speak in candor. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260727dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion “I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.” 1 Kings 3:7 Candor Here’s the setting for today’s Bible passage. The great King David is now an old man. The Lord has just anointed David’s son, Solomon, to be the next king of Israel. At this time, Solomon is about twenty years old. To be twenty years old is to be in a fantastic moment in your life. You’re an independent adult. Your physical and mental powers are at their peak. Countless possibilities lie before you. But this can also be a dangerous moment. For a variety of reasons, it can be easy to presume that you know much more than you really know. And ignorance, coupled with arrogance, can quickly open doors to all kinds of disaster. And so here is twenty-something Solomon. He has just experienced the indescribable thrill of becoming king. What to do first? One of the first things Solomon does is to speak to the Lord in profound candor. “I am only a little child, he prays. I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.” Candor in prayer. To talk to my God without candor is to run the ultimate fool’s errand. He is, after all, the One who has searched me and who knows me. To talk to my God without openly acknowledging my frailties, my weaknesses, my sinful flaws—to talk to him in such a way is not only an insult to him; it robs me of the assurance of forgiveness, comfort, and strength that my Savior purchased for me at Calvary’s cross. Which brings us to the beautiful truth we possess through the power of the good news of Jesus Christ. Because God the Son has lived a perfect life on my behalf; washed my every sin away through his suffering and death, and risen from the tomb, I now have the priceless privilege to speaking to God without fear. I can speak to him in the greatest of openness. I can talk to him in candor about anything. For through faith in the Messiah, I am secure. I am his. Prayer: Lord, through faith in your blood I am secure in you. Move me to speak in candor. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Where does a Believer's Confidence come from? One source, three reasons… #1-Because God is our UNSHAKEABLE Resistance, vv. 1-3 #2-Because God is our UNRELENTING River, vv. 4-7 #3-Because God is our UNCONQUERABLE Ruler, vv. 8-11

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260727dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion “I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.” 1 Kings 3:7 Candor Here’s the setting for today’s Bible passage. The great King David is now an old man. The Lord has just anointed David’s son, Solomon, to be the next king of Israel. At this time, Solomon is about twenty years old. To be twenty years old is to be in a fantastic moment in your life. You’re an independent adult. Your physical and mental powers are at their peak. Countless possibilities lie before you. But this can also be a dangerous moment. For a variety of reasons, it can be easy to presume that you know much more than you really know. And ignorance, coupled with arrogance, can quickly open doors to all kinds of disaster. And so here is twenty-something Solomon. He has just experienced the indescribable thrill of becoming king. What to do first? One of the first things Solomon does is to speak to the Lord in profound candor. “I am only a little child, he prays. I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.” Candor in prayer. To talk to my God without candor is to run the ultimate fool’s errand. He is, after all, the One who has searched me and who knows me. To talk to my God without openly acknowledging my frailties, my weaknesses, my sinful flaws—to talk to him in such a way is not only an insult to him; it robs me of the assurance of forgiveness, comfort, and strength that my Savior purchased for me at Calvary’s cross. Which brings us to the beautiful truth we possess through the power of the good news of Jesus Christ. Because God the Son has lived a perfect life on my behalf; washed my every sin away through his suffering and death, and risen from the tomb, I now have the priceless privilege to speaking to God without fear. I can speak to him in the greatest of openness. I can talk to him in candor about anything. For through faith in the Messiah, I am secure. I am his. Prayer: Lord, through faith in your blood I am secure in you. Move me to speak in candor. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

In “Give Me This Mountain,” Ryan Leak asks, “What if God doesn't remove the mountain but gives us the strength to climb it?” No matter what we go through, we can choose our perspective, our posture, and our persistence. Because God is with us, every mountain can be faced. Thank you for partnering with Social Dallas! To GIVE Online- head to our website: www.socialdallas.com/give Make sure to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE! Also follow us on all Social Media: Instagram: www.instagram.com/social_dallas

PASTOR MARSHALL OCHS | JULY 26, 2026In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Deuteronomy 12-13, which calls God's people to worship Him according to His design rather than adopting the practices of surrounding cultures, emphasizing that true worship flows from wholehearted devotion and ultimately finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the perfect sacrifice. Because God has graciously chosen and saved His people, they are called to respond with lives of complete worship, joyful community, and unwavering faithfulness, guarding themselves against anything that would lead them away from Him.

Radio-iodine therapy...what? From a car accident? How is that possible? Because God is good and he is trustworthy. The Holy Spirit assures, advocates for us - brings joy and peace.

Year A – Pentecost 9; Lectionary 17 – July 26, 2026 Pastor Megan Floyd               Romans 8:26-39               Matthew 13:31-33,44-52   Grace and peace to you from God, who calls us beloved, from the Holy Spirit who intercedes for us, and from Jesus Christ, who guides us ever closer to the kingdom of heaven. Amen. *** The kingdom of heaven is like a Little Free Library. It sits quietly on an ordinary neighborhood street, right in front of Kathy and Carl Richardson's house… right across the street from mine. It isn't grand or flashy... it's not the sort of thing that attracts headlines. And yet, almost every day, I see people stop. Some open the little door just to see what is there. Some leave with a novel tucked under their arm. Others arrive carrying books they have already loved, hoping someone else will discover them. I overheard one of my neighbors say the other day, "I love stopping here," …They didn't know I could hear them. They simply delight in this small gift that is quietly part of the life of our neighborhood. Kathy and Carl didn't build a whole library system. They built a little box. And somehow, that little box has become a place of generosity, curiosity, connection, and delight. The kingdom of heaven is like that… a Little Free Library. Jesus says, "The kingdom of heaven is like..." and then he tells stories that must have disappointed almost everyone listening. No kings… No armies… No great battles between good and evil, or glorious temples. Instead... He tells of… a mustard seed… a woman baking bread… a farmer in a field… a merchant searching for a pearl… and fishermen sorting through their catch. It is almost as if Jesus is saying, "If you're looking for God's kingdom in the places where the world expects to find power, you're looking in the wrong direction." Because that was certainly true in his own day. The Roman Empire wanted everyone to believe that power lived in marble palaces, military parades, and the emperor's throne. Rome announced its greatness from monuments that reached toward the sky. And yet… Jesus pointed toward weeds. Rome celebrated conquest… while Jesus talked about yeast. Rome believed greatness was measured by how many people you ruled. And Jesus said… the kingdom comes quietly, patiently, almost unnoticed, until one day you realize everything has changed. The kingdom of heaven is not what we expect… but perhaps that is because God is not where we expect. As one commentator beautifully observes, Jesus transforms human life not by helping us escape this world, but by helping us see heaven close at hand. That has always been difficult for us to believe. It was difficult then… and it is still difficult now... because we have been shaped by kingdoms that tell us a different story. Our world tells us that what matters is what is impressive, and successful… what is profitable… what can be measured… and what can be earned. And if we're honest, we often begin to believe that God must work the same way. Surely God's grace belongs to those who have somehow earned it. But Paul writes to the Romans as though he knows every one of those fears before we can even speak them aloud. "What will separate us from the love of Christ?" Will it be hardship… or distress? …Persecution or famine? …Danger or death? Paul's answer is breathtakingly simple. Nothing. Nothing in your past or in your present… Nothing waiting for you tomorrow. Nothing in all of creation. …Nothing. …Not because life is easy… Paul knows life isn't easy. …He names suffering honestly. But suffering is never stronger than God's love. The kingdom has come near because God has come near… and God remains near. …Always. That is harder to receive than we often admit. Many of us have spent our lives believing that love must be earned… That acceptance has conditions… That belonging has requirements. Our culture teaches us this every day. It says… Produce more… Achieve more… Be more… Prove yourself… Only then perhaps you will be enough. And when we have lived inside that story long enough, we begin telling it to ourselves. We even imagine that… God must be telling the same story. But Jesus… tells another story. The kingdom of heaven is like a micro food pantry standing quietly beside our church… and at the public library. There are no office hours… no applications… no identification cards… no interview. No one stands at the door asking whether you've earned the right to have food. No one asks whether your need is great enough… no one asks whether your generosity is large enough. If you need something, you take it… If you have something to share, you leave it. Sometimes the shelves are filled by someone whose name no one knows. Sometimes they are emptied by someone carrying burdens no one else can see. And then, quietly… without fanfare… they are filled again. Every single day. Yeah. The kingdom of heaven is like that. Grace flows in… and grace flows out. No one owns it… Everyone receives it… Everyone is invited to participate. That, I think, is what Jesus wants us to see. God's grace is not found by escaping the ordinary but by discovering that the ordinary has become the dwelling place of the extraordinary. Not somewhere else… but here. Not someday… but today. Not after we've finally become the people we think God wants us to be… but now. Because the kingdom of heaven has already come near, and that is good news not only for us as individuals, but for the whole Church. The Church is not called to manufacture God's kingdom. We are called to notice it. …To join it! …and to participate in what God is already doing! Every can of tuna shared… and every hungry neighbor fed… every book that finds its way into the Little Free Library… and every conversation shared across it… these are the little things that build the connection between our neighbors. Every prayer whispered beside a hospital bed… every act of forgiveness. Every quiet act of kindness that no one else notices… these are the signs that the kingdom of heaven has come near. Sometimes we imagine that changing the world requires extraordinary people doing extraordinary things. Jesus seems to think otherwise. …He speaks of tiny seeds… a handful of yeast… a hidden treasure… a simple fishing net. Little things… ordinary things. Things that hardly seem important until, somehow, they become places where God's abundance begins overflowing into the lives of others. Perhaps that is why Paul can say with such confidence that nothing can separate us from God's love. Because God's love is already closer than we imagined… Closer than our successes and our failures. Closer than our doubts… and our fears. …Closer than our next breath. The kingdom is not waiting somewhere beyond the horizon. It is already breaking into the ordinary places of our lives. Into neighborhood sidewalks… Into little wooden libraries. …Into food pantries… and kitchen tables… Into conversations. The kingdom of heaven is breaking into this table, where ordinary bread and ordinary wine become for us the extraordinary gift of Christ's presence. I believe that has been God's way all along. …Choosing what the world overlooks… offering blessing to what the world dismisses. Drawing near where no one expects heaven to appear. And so, this week, I wonder what parables Jesus might tell if he were walking through our neighborhoods. I think he would point to Kathy and Carl's house and say, "The kingdom of heaven is like a Little Free Library." And I think perhaps he would point toward our food pantries and say, "The kingdom of heaven is like this." And then perhaps he would look at us—not because we are impressive, or because we have earned anything special, but simply because we are beloved—and he would remind us that the kingdom of heaven has already come near. Near enough to feed us… near enough to forgive us… near enough to transform us. Near enough that nothing—not hardship or grief, not failure or fear, not life or death, nor anything else in all creation—will ever separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Thanks be to God. Amen.

Text from a sermon given Sunday, July 26 at Loveland UCC.We live in a world marked by decay, suffering, and injustice, and while our efforts to make things better matter, they cannot ultimately fix what is broken. Romans 8 reminds us that God is already at work bringing creation toward a promised future where all things are made new. Because God—not us—will have the final word, we are freed from the burden of saving the world. Instead, we are invited to faithfully participate in God's work, letting every act of mercy, justice, and love bear witness to the future God has promised.

Because God has poured out His depth and riches of mercy on me in Jesus, I must show that same mercy to others as a citizen of His Kingdom.

Welcome to The Daily. Partner with us in Project23. Grab your Hosea Scripture Journal. Our text today is Hosea 11:12: Ephraim has surrounded me with lies,     and the house of Israel with deceit, but Judah still walks with God     and is faithful to the Holy One. — Hosea 11:12 One of the most dangerous things about performative faith is that it can look spiritual on the outside while your heart quietly drifts from God underneath. That is Hosea's warning in this last verse. "Ephraim has surrounded me with lies." This is not atheism. These are still religious people. They still carried the identity of God's people. They still maintained appearances. But underneath it all was deceit. They were close outwardly but distant inwardly. And honestly, modern Christianity struggles with this greatly. We call ourselves Christians, but often do not live surrendered lives. We celebrate Christmas and Easter without stopping to consider the weight and wonder of what those days actually mean. We avoid hard biblical truths when culture drags them into politics. We stay passive about sin, passive about truth, passive about surrender, while still wanting the comfort of religious identity. That is performative religion. It looks faithful without needing surrender. And the unnerving part is that you can do spiritual things for years without actually walking closely with God. Folks, there is a massive difference between serving God and surrendering to God. Serving can sometimes be done out of obligation, duty, routine, or even image management. But surrender happens when you finally realize there is nowhere else to go. Surrender is dependence. Surrender is honesty. Surrender is living open-handed before God, rather than merely performing spiritual activities around Him. And, honestly, this is something I constantly guard against in my own life and ministry. Even these devotionals could become performative if I am not careful. Ministry can become another way to build identity, seek approval, or maintain appearances if surrender quietly disappears underneath it all. That is why I have learned that I must surrender a little more in my service every day. Because God does not merely want my service. He wants me. And He wants you too. Not the polished version. Not the religious version. Not the image-managed version. The real you. The surrendered you. So after all the compassion, pursuit, mercy, and restoration in this chapter, God is still after something deeper than outward religion. He wants hearts that truly belong to Him. Stop settling for performative faith. Do not just serve around God while staying emotionally distant from Him. Surrender to Him. Right now. Because the Father we keep running from is still inviting us closer. DO THIS: Ask God today to expose any place where your faith has become routine, performative, or image-driven instead of deeply surrendered. ASK THIS: Am I serving God while resisting surrender to God? Where has my faith become more performative than personal? What would deeper surrender look like for me right now? PRAY THIS: Father, protect me from performative faith. Teach me to live surrendered instead of merely religious, and help my outward life flow from a heart that truly belongs to you. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Nothing Else"

They often give you one when you check into some sprawling motel complex, or a big theme park, or a large convention facility. It's a map of the place. And for the directionally challenged like me, there's one important thing I look for on that map. It's that “X” and those very helpful words, “You are here.” See, you're not helping me very much by just giving me a drawing of where everything is. In order for me to use that to get where I want to go, I need that one fundamental piece of information - where am I right now? I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about “A Real God Wants the Real You.” It is important to know exactly where you are when you're trying to get to a destination, and when you're trying to get to God. In fact, the failure to talk to God about where you really are may explain why He seems a little farther away than He once did - a little less real than He once did. Hebrews 4:16 is God's powerful invitation to come boldly to His “throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” The verses that precede this promise of God's total availability have to do with our total honesty. Hebrews 4 beginning in verse 12 is our word for today from the Word of God, and it begins by saying that God's Word “is sharper than any double-edged sword.” In other words it opens up our soul surgically and exposes what's really inside. Verse 13 goes on to say, “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.” So you might as well come to God totally unmasked, because there's nothing He doesn't know about you. If you talk to Him about how you're honestly feeling, He's not going to say, “Oh, you're kidding! Really? I didn't know that!” No, it's understandable why you may not tell other people how you're really feeling; they might think less of you. But God already knows, and there's nothing you can do to make God love you more or love you less. In fact, these words go on to remind us that “We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence.” Why? Because God already knows all about us, and because we are coming to the Father through a Savior who has felt all the feelings of being human. You might say, “Well, God already knows, why do I need to tell Him?” So you can open up that part of your heart and your life to His cleansing, His restoring, and His healing. He only goes where He's invited. Maybe you've been saying, “Well, God doesn't seem real to me right now.” Maybe He's saying the same thing to you; you're coming to Him all religious, all together, and all dressed up. If God doesn't seem real to you, maybe it's because you aren't being real with Him. You aren't starting where you really are. You're coming as you think you're supposed to be. Tell it all to your Lord? Tell Him where you're hurting, tell Him where you're afraid, tell Him where you feel like giving up, where you're angry, where you can't forgive, where you can't fight anymore, where you're desperate for love. Tell Him when you're spiritually flat. See, He already knows, but He's waiting for you to open up that part of you so He can bring in His mercy and His grace and His love. Your spiritual drifting, your distance from God, your unnecessary pain may be because you've been coming to God without the real you. You need to get your map out and mark where you are right now. Then your Lord will take you from there to where you need to be. When Jesus says, “If you will open the door, I will come in,” He invites us to come just as we are with a lifetime of sin and doubt that He died to pay for on a cross, and then prove that He could give us eternal life by walking out of His grave under His own power. If you've never begun a relationship with Him, let today be the day. If you want to know how, check out our website: ANewStory.com. There's an old hymn that expresses this very well, the only way to come to Him. “Just as I am without one plea, but that Thy blood was shed for me; and that Thou bidst me come to Thee. O Lamb of God, I come.”

How Does Spiritual Drift Begin? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. What If You’re Drifting Away from God Without Even Realizing It? Spiritual drift rarely happens overnight. It begins with small compromises. Misplaced priorities. Quiet distractions. Before long, what once felt like a vibrant relationship with God becomes routine, and we don’t even notice how far we’ve wandered. In this episode, we continue our journey through the book of Micah by exploring the first chapter of this powerful prophetic book. While Micah’s message was originally spoken to Israel and Judah nearly 2,700 years ago, it speaks directly to our lives today. Together, we’ll explore: How spiritual drift quietly begins Why God always warns before He disciplines Why sin is ultimately a heart issue not just a behavior problem What idolatry looks like in the 21st century Why Micah wept instead of celebrating God’s judgment How small compromises eventually shape entire lives What God’s discipline reveals about His love The question every believer should ask: “Where has my heart slowly drifted from God?” Micah reminds us that God’s warnings are never meant to push us away, they are loving invitations to come home. Every correction is rooted in His mercy. Every confrontation is motivated by His desire to restore His relationship with His people. Because God’s greatest concern has never simply been our behavior. His greatest desire has always been our hearts. “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” — John 10:27 Question for you: Where do you think spiritual drift usually begins in our actions, or in our hearts?

Because God is sovereign, there is a purpose for your pain. Today, R.C. Sproul considers how Christians should understand suffering and how to respond to it faithfully. Get R.C. Sproul's video teaching series Dealing with Difficult Problems when you donate today. You'll receive the DVD, digital access to all 6 messages, and the digital study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request the digital teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

WATCH ON YOUTUBEScripture: Hebrews 10:24–25 Big Idea: We gather because God uses His people to shape us, strengthen us, and send us. 1. Because God calls His people to gather. 2. Because we worship God together. 3. Because we grow through God's Word. 4. Because we need one another. 5. Because I am a part of God's mission.

Why is a peacock more beautiful than it needs to be? Because God makes marvelous things to delight us! Discover why “extravagant beauty” is not a problem for science when we understand that every beautiful thing—including shimmering blue and green peacocks—reflect the glory of our Maker.Here's our trail map:What Kind of Bird Is a Peacock?Why Do Peacocks Shake Their Tails?Why Is a Peacock Dressed So Fancy?Why Did God Make Beautiful Things?Download this lesson's free coloring sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/why-is-a-peacock-so-fancy/Related Lessons to listen to next:Can a Mantis Shrimp Really Punch Through Glass? Lesson 87: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/24b18ca5-51d6-4f72-80f1-ec2ea2b1f27d/How Fast Is a Peregrine Falcon? Lesson 132: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/17a0dbe5-7f64-44e6-8017-fae682ab0090/Do Ostriches Bury Their Heads in the Sand? Lesson 115: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/5eaf8961-e99d-4591-a73e-dd7729bc2e90/Eryn's Books:Where Wonder Leads: An Adventure in God's Wild and Wonderful World: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/wonderMade to Marvel: 52 Family Devotions Exploring the Wild Wonders of God's Creation: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/marvelThe Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living: https://www.amazon.com/Nature-Rest-Creation-Sabbath-Living/dp/0825448891Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615936 Pennies: Discovering the Joy of Intentional Parenting: https://www.amazon.com/936-Pennies-Discovering-Intentional-Parenting/dp/0764219782Save 25% During Apologia's Summer Sale Through August 2026Flying Creatures of the Fifth Day Course: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-1-course-set/Episode Links:Nat Theo Club Bonus Video: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/memberGet full lesson guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/clubFree Peacock Coloring Sheet: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/why-is-a-peacock-so-fancy/Ask your nature question: https://thenaturaltheologyproject.com/askScriptures Referenced in This Episode:“One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek:that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.” Psalm 27:4 (NIV)“Sing a new song to the Lord! Let the whole earth sing to the Lord!Sing to the Lord; praise his name. Each day proclaim the good news that he saves.Publish his glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things he does.Great is the Lord! He is most worthy of praise! He is to be feared above all gods.The gods of other nations are mere idols, but the Lord made the heavens!Honor and majesty surround him; strength and beauty fill his sanctuary.” Psalm 96:1-6 (NLT) Terms Learned in This Episode:Peacock: A male peafowl.Galliformes: An order or category of mostly ground-dwelling birds often called landfowl that includes chickens, turkeys, pheasants, quail, grouse, and peafowl.Peahen: A female peafowl.Peachick: A baby peafowl.Train Rattling: When a peacock raises, fans out, and shakes his feathers to get a female peahen's attention.Iridescence: When something seems to change colors or shimmer as light hits it from different angles and refracts.Structural Color: Color caused by tiny 3D structures that change how light bounces back to our eyes.Ocelli Feathers: Eye spot feathers on a male peafowl (peacock).Extravagant Beauty: Beauty that seems to go beyond what is simply needed or practical.This podcast episode contains paid advertisements.

When many people hear the word justice, they think of courtrooms, laws, or political debates. Those ideas are part of justice, but Scripture offers a much broader vision. Justin Lonas, Senior Director of Foundational Products and Regional Partnerships at the Chalmers Center, helps churches and ministries think biblically about poverty, generosity, restoration, and justice. He joins the show today as part of our financial virtues series to explain that biblical justice is not merely a political slogan or legal principle. It is a way of life shaped by righteousness, mercy, and love of neighbor. Because money affects nearly every part of our lives together, justice has profound implications for how we earn, spend, save, give, invest, hire, and lend. Justice as God Intended It In Scripture, justice includes holding wrongdoers accountable, protecting the innocent, and maintaining public order. But it also includes restoration—putting things right when people or relationships have been harmed. The Bible's vision of justice is rooted in shalom: the wholeness and flourishing that exist when people live in right relationship with God, one another, themselves, and creation. The Hebrew word often translated as “justice” is mishpat. A closely related word, tzedakah, is usually translated as “righteousness.” Scripture frequently places the two ideas side by side, like in Psalm 89:14: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.” Modern culture often separates these concepts. Justice is treated as a public or legal matter, while righteousness is viewed as a matter of private morality. Scripture does not divide them so neatly. Both flow from the character of God, and both should characterize His people. Justice is not merely about demanding our rights. It also calls us to recognize our responsibilities toward others. Why Justice Is a Financial Issue Every financial decision affects someone. The way we earn money affects employees, customers, vendors, and communities. The way we spend it supports particular businesses and practices. The way we invest provides capital to certain companies and industries. Even the way we save, lend, hire, or purchase services can influence others' well-being. That means biblical stewardship cannot be reduced to personal wealth accumulation or individual financial responsibility. Those matters are important, but God's concern is broader than our personal balance sheets. Scripture teaches that God owns everything. The land, our abilities, the opportunities before us, and the resources produced through our work all ultimately belong to Him. Wealth is not something we create entirely by ourselves; it is received within a world God made and sustains. Because God owns it all, we cannot separate our economic lives from His concern for righteousness, mercy, and justice. More Than Simple Fairness Justice is sometimes reduced to treating everyone exactly the same. But biblical justice goes beyond simple fairness. People experience hardship for many reasons. Sometimes poverty is connected to unwise personal decisions. At other times, it results from exploitation, illness, disability, family instability, limited opportunity, or the broader brokenness of the world. Poverty is complex because the effects of sin are complex. When justice is viewed only through the lens of personal merit, we may conclude that everyone simply receives what they have earned. That perspective can cause us to overlook the different burdens people carry and the obstacles they face. Biblical justice invites us to consider not only what people deserve, but also how we can pursue restoration, extend mercy, and help our neighbors flourish. That does not mean ignoring personal responsibility. It means recognizing that Scripture calls us to hold responsibility and compassion together. Poverty and Broken Relationships The Chalmers Center emphasizes that poverty is not merely a lack of money or possessions. It is often connected to broken relationships. God created human beings to live in four fundamental relationships: with God, with ourselves, with others, and with creation. When sin entered the world, each of those relationships was damaged. Our relationship with God was broken. Our understanding of our own dignity and identity became distorted. Our relationships with others became vulnerable to conflict, injustice, and exploitation. Even our relationship with work and creation became marked by frustration. As Lonas puts it, broken people create broken systems, and broken systems can contribute further to human brokenness. But the gospel offers real hope. Jesus is restoring people to God and will one day make all things new. His work does not merely affect our “spiritual lives.” It begins transforming every part of life, including how we use money, conduct business, serve our communities, and relate to our neighbors. Financial stewardship, therefore, becomes one way we participate in God's work of restoration—not as saviors, but as faithful servants who reflect His character. Practicing Justice Through Everyday Decisions Biblical justice may sound like a large or abstract concept, but it often takes shape through ordinary financial choices. Consider where your money goes. Instead of looking only for the lowest price or the greatest personal benefit, ask whether some of your spending could strengthen your community or create opportunities for others. That might mean purchasing from a small local business, supporting a family working to establish itself in your neighborhood, or hiring someone who needs an opportunity to develop new skills. Business owners may be able to offer second chances to people who have struggled to find employment due to a criminal record or a difficult past. Churches and families may be able to use repairs, maintenance, or other projects as opportunities to build relationships with people in their communities. Justice can also influence how employers set wages, how lenders treat borrowers, how investors evaluate companies, and how consumers consider the people behind the products they purchase. The goal is not to make every financial decision perfectly. We often lack complete information, and our choices involve competing responsibilities. The goal is to become more attentive to how our financial lives affect our neighbors. Becoming Allies, Not Merely Helpers People experiencing poverty do not simply need outsiders to arrive with answers. They need relationships, community, dignity, and opportunities to contribute. Rather than viewing ourselves only as helpers, we can learn to become allies—people willing to listen, build relationships, share life, and work alongside others. This approach also reminds us that the relationship is not one-sided. People on the economic margins have wisdom, gifts, experiences, and perspectives that the broader community needs. Flourishing rarely happens in isolation. God created us to depend on Him and live in community with one another. Justice recognizes that our well-being is connected to the well-being of our neighbors. Biblical justice is not merely an idea to affirm. It is a way of ordering our relationships and resources under God. As we seek to earn, spend, give, and invest faithfully, our financial decisions can become tangible expressions of righteousness, mercy, and love. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'll begin drawing my full Social Security benefit in December. How much can I earn without affecting my benefits or creating a tax issue? My husband and I have been married 55 years and have tithed throughout our marriage. We're now over 65, drawing Social Security, working part-time, and receiving some investment income. We still tithe on all of it, but I'm wondering: biblically speaking, is there guidance on giving from Social Security income if we already tithed on the income we earned before retirement? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Chalmers Center Helping Without Hurting Series Tithing in Retirement: A Thoughtful Framework by Anthony Saffer (Article in Faithful Steward, Issue 6 Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Here’s my prayer for you today: May you be led by what is in you, not by what is around you. Because what is around you is loud. Distractions. Drama. Disappointment. Fear. Bad news. Negative people. The invitation to live a small, defeated, mediocre life is everywhere. But daughter of God, you were never created to live looking down. Downcast. Downtrodden. Down in the dumps. Down is not your direction. And here’s how I know: Because of what is in you. Romans 8:9 says, “You, however, are controlled not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you.” Then just a few verses later, Romans 8:15 says, “You have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children.” Did you catch that? God’s Spirit lives in you. Not beside you. Not near you. Not occasionally visiting you. In you. The mountain-moving, sea-parting, chain-breaking, prison-shaking, death-defeating power of Almighty God lives in you. Let that sink in. Because the enemy works overtime trying to make you forget it. He wants your attention on your failures instead of your Father. He wants your focus on your flaws instead of God’s power. He wants you obsessing over your weight, your money, your job, your house, your image, your circumstances—anything that keeps your eyes off the greatest reality of your life: The Spirit of God lives within you. If you’re consumed by what you see in the mirror, you’ll forget what Jesus placed inside of you. If you’re focused on your problems, you’ll forget you already have access to the power to overcome them. If you’re drowning in negative thoughts, you’ll start believing you’re stuck. But you’re not stuck. You’ve just forgotten what’s in you. The Spirit of God has already given you power to rise. Power to heal. Power to overcome. Power to keep going. Don’t sacrifice your power by entertaining pitiful. I know I’ve done it. I’ve had seasons where I focused more on my problems than my power. More on my circumstances than my Savior. And every single time, I felt defeated. Because when I play pitiful, I stop walking powerful. So let me ask you: Have you been focused on your problems? Have you been rehearsing your disappointments? Have you been sitting in self-pity? Because here’s something I learned a long time ago: You can be pitiful or you can be powerful, but you cannot be both. (Thank you Joyce Meyer.) At nineteen years old, I suffered a massive stroke. I was unable to walk or talk. While I was in the hospital, my newlywed husband kept my family away. He told them I was okay. At the time, I couldn’t understand why my mama and daddy weren’t by my bed. But he understood something I didn’t. Pity would have paralyzed me. Pity would have kept me in that bed. Pity would have convinced me I was a victim instead of a victor. My parents would have given me pity. So my young husband pushed me. He challenged me. He refused to hand me pity. And today I walk, talk, and live whole because I was offered God’s power instead of people’s pity. So why would we choose pity now? Girl, pity never looks good on you. But God’s power? That looks absolutely beautiful on you. Because of the Spirit living in you, defeat is no longer your identity. Mediocrity is no longer your calling. Fear is no longer your master. You don’t wake up expecting less. You don’t settle for surviving. Jesus didn’t die so you could live a little life. He came that you might have life—and have it abundantly. So stop sitting in pity over everything that’s wrong. Not when the Spirit of the Almighty lives in you. Oh no. You have every reason to get excited about today. Every reason to expect good things. Every reason to believe that what stands before you is smaller than the God within you. Why? Because God’s Spirit lives in you. You are not controlled by your feelings. You are not a slave to fear. You are a daughter of the King. And daughters of the King don’t walk through life defeated. They walk with authority. They walk with confidence. They walk knowing who they belong to. So remember this today: Nothing you face is greater than the Spirit within you. You are not helpless. You are not hopeless. You are not stuck. And if you feel that way, you’ve believed a lie that was never yours to carry. Don’t buy what the enemy is selling. A daughter of the King should never settle for the leftovers of a defeated devil. Remember what’s in you. The same power that spoke the universe into existence lives in you. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you. The same power that shattered prison walls and broke chains lives in you. The same power that turned water into wine lives in you. That means life is in you. Healing is in you. Freedom is in you. Victory is in you. Change is in you. Hope is in you. Power is in you. So don’t let what is around you make you forget what is in you. The circumstances are real. The challenges are real. The obstacles are real. But none of them are greater than the Spirit of God dwelling within you. That Spirit does not make you a fearful slave. That Spirit makes you a daughter. He brings you into the family. He places a crown upon your head. He declares, “You belong.” So straighten your crown, girl. Life may have knocked you around, but it has not changed who you are. You are chosen. You are loved. You are redeemed. You are a daughter of the King. And the power of Almighty God lives within you. So today, be powerful. Not pitiful. Follow Pamela on Instagram – https://instagram.com/headmamapamela Or Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pamela.crim Find out more about BIG Life – http://biglifehq.com

What gives your life lasting significance?In this encouraging Bible study, we explore what Scripture reveals about God's purpose for every believer and how our value is found not in achievements, status, or circumstances, but in our relationship with Christ. The word glory is an interesting word in the Old Testament. It comes from a Hebrew word, "kabod", which means "importance or significance." The best English word that we can equate to kabod is this idea "to matter."Tim Keller believed that every human being cannot live without glory. In other words, we can't live without this deep assurance that we matter, that our lives matter.Do you realize that your life is important and your life matters?God designed us to get our identity from Him. In other words, we matter because we matter to Him. Think about these truths from scripture:He loves me with an everlasting love. (Jeremiah 31:3)He wants to teach me what is best for my life. (John 14:26)He wants to give me an abundant life. (John 10:10)When a man can really get that he matters to God, he can be secure and at peace with his life because he realizes, "I do matter because I matter to God." Why does my life matter? Because God has pursued us, revealed Himself to us, redeemed us through Christ, and invited us into an eternal relationship with Him. Our significance is not something we achieve—it is something we receive from the God whose glory gives meaning and purpose to our lives.Psalm 16:11 tells us, "In Your presence is fullness of joy."

In this message from Psalm 146, Pastor Jim explores the justice of God and why His people are called to reflect it in the world. Unlike earthly leaders whose plans eventually perish, God reigns forever, remains faithful, and actively cares for the oppressed, the hungry, the imprisoned, the blind, the fatherless, the widow, and the stranger. Jesus reveals this justice fully by drawing near to the vulnerable, welcoming outsiders, and enduring injustice Himself to bring forgiveness and freedom. Because God has rescued and raised us up, we are called to praise Him, do justice, love mercy, and join His work of bringing healing and wholeness to others.

What are you doing with your 90,000 hours? The average adult will spend roughly one-third of their life working—whether that is paid professional labor, running a household, or navigating school. Yet many followers of Jesus are unsure how their faith connects to their daily occupations. In Week 4 of our Kingdom Greatness series, Pastor Alex Gowler breaks down a powerful biblical theology of work, shattering the common myth that full-time ministry or writing big checks are the only ways to honor God. True kingdom greatness isn't found in using your job for self-fulfillment or survival; it is unlocked when we view our daily tasks as a primary calling to honor God and serve others. Whether you are clocking into a corporate office, working a trade, or managing a home, this message will challenge your daily perspective and reveal how your ordinary labor can hold extraordinary eternal value.Key Takeaways from This Message:- Work is a Created Gift, Not a Curse: Long before sin entered the world, God established work in the Garden of Eden. Because God is a worker, our labor is a fundamental way we reflect His image.- Redefine Your Purpose: While fair compensation and personal satisfaction are wonderful perks of a job, they are not its ultimate purpose. The true purpose of work is generosity and loving service.- Your Daily Tasks Are True Worship: Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us that whatever we do, we are ultimately serving the Lord Christ. Every spreadsheet, customer interaction, and manual task is an opportunity for worship.- The Reframe Questions: To shift from a worldly mindset to kingdom greatness, routinely ask yourself: "Who is on the other side of the work I am doing?" and "How does my work make their life a little better?"Reflect & Discuss:What is one practical change you can make this week to view your daily tasks as an act of service to others rather than just a way to earn a living? Let us know in the comments below!

In this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb bring their extended series on the parables of Matthew to a powerful climax with the passage most listeners have been waiting for: the Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31–46). Far from a checklist of works required for salvation, this text is unpacked as the master parable of Christ's entire parabolic ministry — a sovereign declaration of divine election, not a merit-based audit of individual performance. Tony and Jesse explore why this passage has been chronically misread as a call to works righteousness, why the language of inheritance and predestination is front and center, and how a Reformed reading liberates rather than burdens the conscience. Along the way, they weigh in on Herman Bavinck's prescient warning about media distraction, and Jesse recommends a Puritan gem on anxiety worth picking up immediately. Key Takeaways The Sheep and Goats is best understood as a parable, or at minimum parable-adjacent. The Greek construction in verse 31 mirrors the same comparative language Christ uses throughout his parabolic ministry, placing this text firmly within that tradition rather than outside it. The kingdom was prepared before any works were done — this is election language. The phrase "inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world" (v. 34) is not a reward for performance; it is the language of sovereign predestination preceding all human action. The works of the sheep are diagnostic, not causative. What the righteous did reveals who they already were — sheep — rather than being the mechanism by which they became sheep. The beak doesn't make the bird. Both groups are surprised, and that surprise is the parabolic punchline. Neither the sheep nor the goats anticipated the verdict they received, which undermines any reading that frames this text as an encouragement to accumulate saving merit. This passage is a recapitulation of the wheat and tares parable. Sheep and goats co-mingled until the moment of final separation, just as wheat and tares grow together until the harvest — the judgment reveals what was always true. Any theology that requires a human contribution to activate or complete salvation misreads this text.Whether Roman Catholic, Arminian, or Mormon in flavor, every view that makes God's preparation of the kingdom contingent on foreseen human merit fundamentally inverts the logic of the passage. The scope of judgment — "all nations" (ta ethnos) — would have been scandalous to first-century Jewish ears. This language deliberately expands the kingdom beyond ethnic Israel, fulfilling the Abrahamic covenant promise and confounding the assumptions of the religious elite. Key Concepts The Kingdom Prepared Before Your Works: Sovereign Election, Not Merit When the King says to those on his right, "Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world" (Matthew 25:34), the theological weight of that single sentence is staggering. The kingdom was not prepared in response to anything the sheep did. It was prepared before time, before works, before choice — which means the works that follow in the passage cannot be the grounds of that inheritance. Only a Calvinistic understanding of election can sustain this logic without remainder. Arminian views require God to foresee a qualifying human response; Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox views require some degree of meritorious participation; even certain Lutheran frameworks lean on non-resistance to grace. Reformed theology alone places the entire cause within God's sovereign, unconditional decree — and this passage, read plainly, says exactly that. Works as Evidence, Not Ground: The Diagnostic Function of This Parable The great pastoral error in preaching this passage is treating it as a performance rubric — a list of charitable acts that, if completed, qualify a person for eternal life. But Christ does not separate the sheep from the goats because of what they did or failed to do. He separates them, and then describes the activity that characterized each group. The works are revelatory. They surface what was already true of each person's nature, just as a bird's beak reveals its species rather than constituting it. This reframing is liberating precisely because it means assurance does not rest on tallying acts of charity. It rests on the sovereign act of a Father who prepared a kingdom and the regenerating work of the Spirit who produces, in those He has claimed, a life that looks like the one described here. "All Nations": The Scandal of an Ethnically Inclusive Kingdom The Greek phrase ta ethnē — translated "all nations" in most English Bibles — would have landed very differently on first-century Jewish ears, particularly those of the Pharisees and Sadducees who comprised a significant portion of Christ's audience throughout Matthew 24–25. To them, ta ethnē meant the Gentiles, the peoples out there, those outside the covenant. The implicit effect of Christ's language is to place every people group — including Israel — within a single undifferentiated mass standing before his throne, with no ethnic group receiving preferential standing at the bar of judgment. This is entirely consistent with the Abrahamic promise of blessing to all families of the earth (Genesis 12:3), the vision of Psalm 2, and the missionary thrust of the Great Commission. The scandal is not incidental — it is the point. The kingdom Christ is ushering in is not the ethnic-nationalist kingdom the religious establishment expected. Memorable Quotes The kingdom of heaven was prepared for those whom Christ has elected before the foundation of the world, and it was the preparation of that kingdom that brought you through this such that you did the good works that you did... That is caused by the fact that God prepared a kingdom for you in advance, not that you somehow caused this kingdom to be prepared for you. - Tony It's not the beak that makes it the sparrow, it's the sparrow that makes it the kind of beak it is. That's the kind of classification we're talking about in this parable. - Tony The best freedom is the one that turns over all things to God and takes him at his word when he says, 'In love you were predestined to inherit this as sons and daughters of the kingdom,' so that he does all the work, because we do not want to have any of that work our own. - Jesse Full Transcript [00:01:11] Jesse Schwamb: Welcome to episode 498 of the Reformed Brotherhood. I'm Jesse  [00:01:19] Tony Arsenal: And I'm Tony, and this is the podcast with ears to hear. Hey, brother.  [00:01:24] Jesse Schwamb: Hey, brother. They said it couldn't be done. They said we couldn't come back. We wouldn't come back and continue in Matthew 25. But here we are, and we're ending this chapter in this whole section about sheep and goats. Everybody was clamoring for it. Everybody wanted to know, what about the sheep and the goats? And I think the last time we all chatted together, we prefaced it by saying it's parable adjacent. Or let's just say- Yes ... we just stacked up these three other parables, lots of things going on, and then Jesus resolves this or brings all these parables to a culmination by speaking about the end times, the end of all things, and the sheep and the goats. Yeah. And so we gotta go there  [00:02:06] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah, I'm stoked.  [00:02:07] What Counts Parable [00:02:07] Tony Arsenal: And y- you know, I, I was talking with a brother at, um, at church yesterday on the Lord's day, and he was asking how the podcast's going and what we're doing. And, you know, I was kind of thinking, like, I was talking about the parables and how we're kind of moving forward, and we were gonna do some of the I am sayings in John. And, and I was thinking, like, what is a parable anyways? And who decides what a parable is and what a parable isn't? Right. Um, some of the parables Christ calls a parable, others he doesn't. Uh, we'll probably talk a little bit about that when we get to, uh, some of the back half of Luke. But this, this episode I think is gonna be really, really the payoff and really the culmination of not just these, like, this trio of or trilogy of parables that we've talked about, but I think really, like, the payout of all of the parables in Matthew. It's really, like, the summary of all of Christ's parabolic teachings. So it's, it's a good place for us to round out Matthew, and then we'll, we'll dip into the parables in the other gospels, probably have a couple more months of, of, uh, parable talk before we move on to the next thing. But, uh, it's been great, and I'm super, super stoked for this. This is one of my favorite passages, actually, and there's so much to dig into. I, I, I'm just gonna say now, we probably won't make it through the whole thing- Right ... uh, because there's a lot there. But we'll see. We'll see how we do. Maybe Jesse and I will be super efficient tonight, uh, but we usually aren't, so. [00:03:27] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, that's never happened. We, we take it low and slow. Not only that- ... it was reminding me as you spoke about that kind of proverb generally of if you wanna go build a wall, you assess what you need, how many stones, and then you go gather those stones. Yeah. You should double it, or if you're gonna go out and fight an army, take stock of that army. That's basically what we do, but in reverse. Anytime, like, you just... I just heard you say- ... like, "It'll probably take us a couple more months," you should double that. That's probably how long- Yeah ... it's actually gonna take us.  [00:03:50] Faith Works Assurance [00:03:50] Jesse Schwamb: Even in this- Yeah ... conversation, I think we're gonna get stuck in the best way possible speaking about things like faith, works, and assurance because there's a lot of language here- Yeah that could seem on the surface to sit in this tension with justification by faith alone. And I think the key to resolving all that tension, as I hopefully think we'll see, lies in the readings of works as the evidence of living faith rather than its ground, and I think that's what- Yes ... Christ is leading us through all of these parables, actually, whether it goes back. And you should listen to all those episodes. In fact, I gotta ask. Th- I mean, this brother you were talking to, it just strikes me as that question had already be answered for him if you were listening to the podcast. So-  [00:04:29] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, I don't think he does. No, I don't think he does- ... listen to the podcast. Uh, he knows that I do the podcast, and he's very gracious to ask me about it. Tom. And I think he's probably listened to the podcast before. Got it. Um, and he's, he's just a very kind, gracious brother who, who is concerned and wants to know what I'm doing. And, um, he has, he has his own sort of, like, production stuff that he does that he enjoys that I'm, I'm not super keyed into. But, uh, it was just nice. But, but it did get me thinking, like, I was trying to explain to him where we were in the progress of the parables, and I was like, "I can't really... I don't really know," because, like, it's hard to even understand and fully... There's no, like, full comprehensive universal list of what is a parable- Right ... and what's not. And I think what we've found as we've been going through this is sometimes, sometimes you come up against a portion of a text that is often taught sort of separate from the, the rest of it. Parables get taught discreet from other parables. But then you have these sort of, like, intervening texts, or this one's kind of a summary text, that's so integrated to what the parable means you really can't do a series on these parables without also treating this text. Which is gonna be interesting, 'cause I've never, I've never encountered somebody who really roots this teaching here of Christ in the context of the parables, despite its proximity. So it'll be fun. We're gonna figure it out in real time, and, and it'll be good.  [00:05:47] Jesse Schwamb: No, it's gonna be fun.  [00:05:48] Deny Doomscrolling Bavinck [00:05:48] Jesse Schwamb: And speaking of fun, we're so glad that you're listening, and we know that you're waiting with bated breath to hear about affirmations or denials. It's of course that part of the conversation where we either affirm with something that we think is fantastic, maybe by way of recommendation, or conversely, we deny against something that isn't that great. So Tony, as is our custom in the liturgy of the Reformed Brotherhood podcast, I ask you once again, are you affirming with or deny against? [00:06:15] Tony Arsenal: I am denying against something, and I'm gonna do that by affirming a Herman Bavinck quote. Uh, so I'm gonna read it for you. This, uh... Some of the guys in the Facebook group have put... or the Facebook group, the Telegram chat, have put together a, uh, like, a reading group to work through Bavinck's, uh, Wonderful Works of God, which is great, and I'm loving it. I haven't been able to participate in the conversation as much as I would like to, but just being part of a reading group, uh, sort of keeps you on schedule, which is great. So I've been reading through Wonderful Works of God, and on the Kindle edition, on page 34, uh, which I think is still the, I think is still the, uh, introduction, he says, quote, "The reading of daily and weekly newspapers, of magazines and brochures, devours our every blink. There's a lack of desire and opportunity for the investigation of scripture and the study of old theological works," end quote. And when I read that, it just really struck me as like- If that was true like 70 years ago, 80 years ago when Bavinck was writing this, right? And all there was was hard, hard copy media. There was no, uh, there was no digital media. There was radio, but there wasn't a lot of programming. Uh, I don't think that there was much in the way of television broadcasting. If there was, it was, it was very, very limited and very rudimentary. Um, even then he was saying the daily news cycle and all of this extra stuff that is out there is consuming our, quote, "Every blink," which I thought was a really interesting phrase. Um, it's basically like it's so ingrained in us, we're so invested and obsessed with the news cycle. Uh, or you might translate that to like to our Twitter feed or our Facebook feed or our Instagram reels or whatever it might be, and dare I say it, the podcasts we listen to.  [00:08:05] Jesse Schwamb: Right.  [00:08:05] Tony Arsenal: Um, that we don't save time for scripture and other theological works. And I think it's funny too is that the, the eternal, uh, the eternal contemporary statement of the Reformed world is like we don't read enough old theological works. Even Bavinck, who I'm reading as one of the old... I mean, not like super old, but like one of the old theological works, is saying, "Hey, we don't read enough old theological works." So I'm denying this sort of like obsession we have with the daily news cycle and with constantly being up to date and like constantly consuming all of that. Um, we've talked about how like our modern global news cycle sort of, uh, is built around the deception that we can be sort of pseudo omnipotent and know all things about everything. And, um- There's a lot of work that's been done to show that, like, the world's not really that much, not that much more of a violent place than it was 100 years ago. We just know a lot more about what's going on- Right ... in other parts of the world. And there's pros and cons to that. But I think the main con is, like, we, we feel suddenly that we have to be, you know, deeply involved in the goings on of a church on the other side of the country that we never would've even known existed otherwise. It- there's just a, there's a sense of omnipotence and omnipresence that's just not becoming for the creature that I think we try to take on. So Bavinck knew it. Uh, we've talked about it. Lots and lots of people have talked about it. This isn't new. I'm not, I'm not e- engineering anything new on this. But that quote really struck me when I was reading. I was like, "Dang, man, he, he got it right 100 years ago or, or 80 years ago, and we're still struggling with it." And I think probably, like, if you go back and you look at the, I don't know, more occasional writings of people like Martin Luther and John Calvin, um, as they're interacting with, like, people in the Reformed community or the Protestant community, I bet you would find statements like this too about how, like, we really spend a lot of time reading, like, silly things and not spending- Right our time studying the scripture or studying, um, theological works. So that's my denial. I'm sticking to it, and if that means you feel like you need to turn this podcast off and go read some John Calvin or some Herman Bavinck, then by all means. Uh, I think you're probably going to be edified by what we have to talk about. But, uh, th- the Bible's better, so if you gotta go do it, if you only got- That's true ... an hour today to study scripture or listen to this podcast, please go study scripture. Yeah. Uh, hopefully we can do a little bit of both with this podcast. But Herman Bavinck said it best. Our every blink is consumed with pamphlets and newspapers and it just is- It's true it's pretty silly.  [00:10:41] Jesse Schwamb: It's true.  [00:10:42] Meme Detour Reading Groups [00:10:42] Jesse Schwamb: I gotta take us all the way back to where you started there, and I'm going to betray, to nobody's surprise, my really strong naivete when it comes- ... to social media, and memes in particular. But this is what occurred to me, and I'm gonna try it. This is, like, what classically makes really good podcasting. Let me try to describe a meme to you that I'm not even sure I actually understand or know. So this will be great. I think, you tell me, Tony, 'cause you may have seen this. It's an old meme too, so I'm not even, like, on the cutting edge here. I think it's a meme of two panels showing, like, two pictures of Drake. In know one he's kinda, like, pushing away as if to say, like, "Get that outta here," and the other one's like, "Oh yeah, that's the stuff." Do you know what I'm talking about? Yeah. Is that accurate?  [00:11:21] Tony Arsenal: I do. I think you're gonna use it wrong, but yeah.  [00:11:23] Jesse Schwamb: Is that Drake? Okay, all  [00:11:24] Tony Arsenal: right. Yeah, that's, that's the meme.  [00:11:25] Jesse Schwamb: Okay, okay. And usually, if I understand it correctly, it's kind of like a faux juxtaposition of two things, right? Like, okay. So like here, let me try it. Uh, uh, let me just try it on everybody. Here we go. I'm gonna describe to you how I just interpret this based on what you said, 'cause something cracked me up that you said, Tony. If I were gonna make this meme just based on how you opened that up, the first panel would be like Drake pushing away the idea or being like, "That's no good," book club. The second one would be reading group, as in like, like the reading group is like the new cool way of like just kind of... Did I use it properly? Am I close?  [00:11:59] Tony Arsenal: I think the problem with this is that there's like a, there's like an ironic way to use it, and then there's like a more direct way to use it. Mm. Yeah. The direct way would be like some- like Drake's pushing away something that's bad, and he's- Yeah ... like accepting something that's good. That'd be like the direct way. Yes. The more ironic one is where like Drake is pushing away something that's actually pretty, actually pretty good, and he's- Yeah ... accepting the one that's pretty silly. Oh, okay. Um, there's a lot of memes that have that basic format. Never mind. There's one with like Jordi LaForge. I think there's a Michael Scott one. I tried. I tried. But yeah, no, I, I think yours is valid, it's just, I think it's an older usage of the meme. That's like the, that's like the middle English version of that meme. The Shakespearean use of that meme.  [00:12:36] Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. I'll take that. It's the old English style. I love a good book club or a reading group. A, a reading group just, it does have that sound like maybe somebody in the group has a monocle, or you guys have tea. Either way- Yeah ... I absolutely love it. And yes, what are our beautiful quotes. You kind of hear that general conception recapitulated among like theologians almost in every era. But it does make you think, what would Bavinck say about, like doom scrolling on the smartphone? Like- Yeah ... he's beside himself, right? It would just be beside himself. So I'm with you. I, it, there's gonna be a condemnation in every generation. Maybe I say this with some degree of like chronological snobbery, especially in ours, when it comes to not, like you said, I think kind of like not carving out or not prioritizing time in the scriptures. Yeah. There's not gonna be any excuse of like, "Well, I just didn't have time." Right. Or, "There were too many things to read." It's just, it's not gonna cut it. So I'm with you. I think you and I have talked about this at length, even just like the news media like you and I consume, like just s- set aside social media for a second. Just like how i- how much value is there in a lot of like what we cons- used to consider to be like well-informed reporting? How valuable is that to us? Yeah. And I'm certainly not saying like that everybody should be like unconcerned and uninterested in the world, but I think it's to what degree and what fascination we have with that, and how it fits into our priority as we consume information each day. That's the thing that's tricky, and there's no really-  [00:14:02] Tony Arsenal: Yeah ...  [00:14:02] Jesse Schwamb: good answer except to weigh out with the spiritual discernment- Yeah ... how we ought to consume that stuff. But certainly I think, without question, we need to be prioritizing time in prayer, time in the scriptures. I imagine if we were all doing that with a great deal of attention, that all of the other things would kind of find their way into the right place. Or let's say they would just find their way out of our lives in a significant way- Yeah ... that would remove us from distraction and anxiety, instead bring us back into the providence of God.  [00:14:31] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. And I'm not, I'm not gonna be the guy that tells you you can never s- you can never scroll Instagram or TikTok or whatever. Um, I, I think that's a decision that's between you and the Holy Spirit as far as how you spend your time. But I, I do think, um, I think you're right- We are accountable for the decisions we make and how- Right ... we choose to divide up our time. And I- God, I mean, God is the inventor of fun. He's the inventor of leisure, and he is, uh, I think he's pleased and honored when we, we make good use of our time f- for things that are restful and rejuvenating. Um, he doesn't expect us to just slavishly read scripture all day, every day, like every minute. That's not, that's not the biblical expectation. Um, and so I think it's fine if you wanna sit down and watch a fun show, or if you wanna watch some YouTube videos, or listen to a silly podcast, or listen to a serious podcast. Um, but I do, I agree. Like, we, we really need to be thoughtful. And I think where, where Bavinck's quote, uh, is strong is it's not so much about, "Don't read these things." Right. He, he's talking about these things consume our every blink. Like, m- he's treating blink... He's using the word blink as sort of a fill-in for like our, our finite resource of time and attention, and these things have consumed all of them. There's a very strong use of that word consume. Uh, and I, I think that's really the, the point that I'm trying to make is we often allow, either intentionally or unintentionally, we, we just let our time get all sucked up, uh, on things that maybe are good but are not pr- properly proportioned. Um- Like I said, it's, it's fine to spend some time on Twitter and to get into a debate once in a while, or to check in on your friends on Facebook, your old high school, college buddies or whatever, but we can definitely take it too far. So I think it's a good corrective for all of us to at least make a stop and think about how we're spending our time, and whether we are affording the appropriate amount of time to things like scripture, theological study, catechesis of our children, um, family worship, all of those good things. So we don't have to go much more into that. I think the point has been made. Uh, so Jesse, what are you affirming and/or denying tonight?  [00:16:43] Affirm Puritan Anxiety Cure [00:16:43] Jesse Schwamb: Perfect segue, because speaking of reading old things, you know me, I've always got some kind of Puritan work in the rotation, and the one I just finished is the one I'm affirming, which is called Special Providence for Anxious Souls by Obadiah Sedgwick, who I think is kinda... Like, people are sleeping on Sedgwick, you know? Mm-hmm. He's, he's kinda like, he's there in the wings, but we need to take him off the bench. And I came across this book and I thought, "Who doesn't want a title like that in their lives?" Like, we got some anxiety in all of our souls. And I'm affirming this because, uh, hi- his definitions, his writing is, are on point. But here's what I thought. I was embarrassed that I picked this up expecting one thing, and then in typical puritanical fashion, was delivered something else that was far better. And I was thinking about this title as you might see it, like, in your modern bookstore today, whether it's, like, in Barnes & Nobles or at any of the periodicals we were just kind of mentioning or implying that are out there. And I was expecting to get some kind of, I don't know, six or seven things, I mean, that's Puritan style, but six or seven things that would really help you diagnose the psychology, and then going back to the scripture in ways, all, all the ways we'd expect about how God loves us and cares for us, and all those things are true. And yet the only way I could describe how this book ministered to me is, like, how you might go to a physical therapist for some kind of ailment, which I have many as I get older, and have recently been to one. And the ailment I had was, um, basically like tarsal tunnel, which is like carpal tunnel for your foot. And so there was some nerves that were inflamed and causing some pain and some weirdness in my feet. And here's what I do know about physical therapy now that I think the Puritans also do for our souls, and that is the physical therapist gave me this full workup. They prodded me and poked me and rubbed things and made things hurt- And in the course of doing that, they clearly could figure out what was wrong with my foot. And so when he gave me the diagnosis, after, again, rubbing that part and, like, doing one of those things where he's like, you know, they tap on your hard and they're like, "Does that hurt?" I'm like, "Yes, it does hurt." And I presume that's because you know anatomy. And, you know, he's, he's ta- tapping on my ankle and it's causing my foot underneath to hurt. And after all that, you know, I run on a treadmill. He d- takes all this video, and this is what he says to me. He goes, "Yeah, so this is actually pretty straightforward." And I was like, "Great, so what are we talking about? Like exercises, uh, splints, like massage?" He's like, "You have a weak butt." And I was like- "I'm sorry, let's talk about that for a second." And this is what I've learned about physical therapy, is it's rarely about the thing that's actually bothering you or the thing that's hurt, right? It's something- Yeah ... far different. It's something almost seemingly, like, disjointed or removed or divorced from the very thing, maybe even non-contiguous, if only in our minds, maybe even logically. And so what I love about this is the first half of the book is just speaking about the province of God before it even gets into this idea of anxiety. And then the treatment on anxiety and worry is, he goes through, like, six or seven things in particular, are just absolutely glorious. So good that I want you to read it. I don't even want to talk about it. Uh, that, that's my admonishment to you, is that you should just go pick it up. So I'm affirming again that the Puritans in particular do this thing where there's, there's no cheap advice here. It's not even hide advice. It's really good advice, but it's the kind that says, "You have a weak butt" when you're concerned that your ankle- is messed up. Yeah. And that's sometimes what you need to hear. And in my case, after... Let's make this super weirdly spiritual. After doing a bunch of squats, I don't know what the spiritual equivalent is of that. After doing a bunch of squats, my ankle and my foot was so much better. And it, because I had somebody who cared enough for me to go through and actually diagnose the root of it, that was the reason that inevitably there was healing. So I've, this has given me so much to think about, this tiny little treatise. So much to put into practice. It's so rich, so good, so practical, and yet I think you'll find in many ways joyfully unexpected. So I highly affirm to everybody listening, and even those who aren't, Special Providence for Anxious Souls, Obadiah Sedgwick. You'll, you'll love it  [00:20:49] Tony Arsenal: Yeah.  [00:20:49] Physical Therapy Spiritual Practice [00:20:49] Tony Arsenal: So two thoughts. Uh, one, uh, I can confirm Jesse has a weak butt, um, flat as a board. So it's probably, probably better after, after doing some squats. Wow. Uh, two- Wow. ... uh, I can say I also am in some physical therapy right now, and I've been a little bit of a slacker. And what I will contribute to the conversation is just like in physical therapy, they can give you all of the exercises- Yeah uh, that you want. If you don't do the work, you're not going to get better. Yeah. And so whether it's Jesse doing squats or me not finding time to stretch and to do some, like, arm exercises with a, with a s- uh, like a TheraBand, uh, the same holds true. And, and maybe to unify our, uh, affir- our denials/affirmations into one mega, mega recommendation, um, the same holds true in that, one, we can take a book like this from, uh, Sedgwick, and we can turn it into the same thing we do with media where we're just... it's just devouring our blinks. Right. And we're just using it as a way to sort of, like, feed our eye hole Get better. You won't improve. Um, and that's actually the same with scripture. Like y-you can- Right ... turn scripture into, uh, into a snack food that you, you don't actually use to be nutritious. Um, I think there's probably more benefit to reading scripture sort of rote and, and almost mechanically than there is to reading anything else. But, um, but at the end of the day, you can also consume your blinks with scripture and not get a lot out of it if all you're doing is passing your eyes over text. So get in there. I think that's great. I haven't read that one. I mean, I think there's... I think there are probably many, I can't think of one off the top of my head, but I'm sure there are many, many Puritan treaties that- treatises that are similar in theme and tone and have the same kind of like spiritual antidote or spiritual medicine, um, prescribed by these guys that is good and wholesome. And again, like, like you're saying, like it's not that complicated. It's not that hard. Right. It just takes- Right ... you just actually have to do the work. Um, it's funny, my physical therapy thing is my, my shoulder has been really ba- really messed up, and I went in, I expected him to give me all these, all these shoulder exercises, and he's like, "Uh Really what you need to do is you fix your neck, uh, 'cause your shoulder is, is being in- injured because you're sleeping- Okay on that side because you're trying to stay off the other side. So, like, you really gotta fix your neck so you can sleep on the other side of your body. And I was like, "So I'm just, like, sleeping wrong?" Like, it's funny, there's a joke, it's like in your 20s you can do anything you want, in your 30s, like, you gotta be a little bit careful, and in your 40s, like, you hurt yourself just sleeping. Right. Just getting out of bed is dangerous.  [00:23:46] Jesse Schwamb: It's  [00:23:46] Tony Arsenal: true.  [00:23:47] Jesse Schwamb: It's true. So. It's a tough world. But  [00:23:48] Tony Arsenal: it's true. I feel like a really old man saying that.  [00:23:51] Read Matthew 25 Aloud [00:23:51] Jesse Schwamb: You know, it strikes me that you're right, of course, that there's so much here we always have to put into practice. There's so much here that we have to trust with God. There's a faith that works. And so I think actually that is the most lovely inroad into this final passage of Matthew, because there's a lot here for us to talk about with all of those things, and to understand it in this proper context. So as you've already set us up, Tony, the best part of our podcast is the scripture, for sure, 100%. So let's go there. So we're in Matthew 25 in case you're just joining us. And for some reason I went into, like, a full radio mode, as if this, like, this is being broadcast live, and you just came into the program. We're in Matthew 25, uh, starting in verse 31, and I'm gonna read until the end of the chapter. There's so much here that of course we're not gonna get to all of it, but in the spirit of literally having the full context of the scripture in front of us, and to hear it all, I think it's important. It w- b- better yet, you should go back and read the entire chapter and then tune in right now. But let me start at verse 31. "But when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. And all the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate them one from another as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom which has been prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat. I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me in, naked, and you clothed me. I was sick, and you visited me.  [00:25:32] Judgment Scene Read [00:25:32] Jesse Schwamb: I was in prison, and you came to me.' Then the righteous will answer him saying, "Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? And when did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and come to you?" And the King will answer and say to them, "Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of mine, even the least of them, you did it to me." Then he will say to those on his left, "Depart from me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angers-- angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink. I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me." Then they will themselves also answer saying, "Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison and did not take care of you?" Then he will answer them saying, "Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me." And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life  [00:26:47] Tony Arsenal: Yeah.  [00:26:49] Parable Not Fear [00:26:49] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, it's, it's, um, it's a sobering passage. And just as I think we've seen in a lot of the other parables, um These eschatological parables and these eschatological sayings of Christ, uh, as you kind of alluded to earlier, I, I think they are really, really, um... They are not prone to being misinterpreted. Right. The church has been prone to misinterpreting and misapplying these, um, in a, in a way that's used to make, make the Christian fearful and to, uh, undermine their assurance rather than to call them to action or to accountability.  [00:27:33] Why It's A Parable [00:27:33] Tony Arsenal: Um, and I think a- as I've been reading through this and I've been sort of glancing at the Greek as we're reading, I actually think I'm on... I, I stumbled on much more better ground to treat this as a parable than I even originally thought I did. You know, I, I had this whole lead-up that this isn't technically a parable, but when you read here, when it says, in verse 31, it says, "When the Son of Man comes in glory and the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates- Right ... the sheep from the goats." If you go back to verse 14, when it says, "For it will be like a man," uh, that, that first word of verse 14 in the Greek is the same word as is used when it says, um, uh, "He separates people one from another as a shepherd." That same word is used as there, it's just translated differently because of where it comes in the, um, in the text. So Christ is still making this comparison, so it would be as though he said, um, you know, like the common, most common, at least so far, most common kind of parabolic introduction is like, "The Kingdom of Heaven is like." Um, this is the same basic language he's using here to introduce what the eschaton will be like. Right? The ga- the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate them. It says people in the ESV, but will separate them one from another. You could also say the, the nations or the peoples will be gathered before him. Right. He will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep. So the parable here is the s- the shepherd separating the sheep from the goats, this whole process of the separation and this, this, um, frankly, like it's, it feels and smells like a parable, right? It does. This, this, um, figure, this shepherd in the parable or the shepherd in the saying is saying these sort of like parabolic statements. He's using this language that's kind of like shocking punchline statement. Like we've talked about how in parables there's often this sort of unexpected turn of events, or there's this unexpected kind of shocking language, and this whole like twist at the end in both, sort of both s- chunks here, where like the sheep don't really understand, like they didn't really recognize that they were doing sheepy things, and the goats didn't really understand that they were being goats. That's like the parabolic twist or the parabolic punchline here. So the, the kingdom of heaven is like, basically it's like the Son of Man will come in his glory and it will be like this. It will be like a shepherd separating the sheep from the goats. That's the parabolic connection here. Mm-hmm. So I actually think that, that linguistically we're on, we're on pretty solid ground not just to treat this as a summary of all the parables, um- I think of for sure these three parables, but it, it really is like the master parable, and I think probably the master parable that kinda governs and constrains and explains all of the parabolic ministry of Christ. So I'm, I'm stoked for us to really dig into the details a little bit, but I think linguistically we're on super good ground to, to treat this as a parable. I agree. At the very least, it's stronger than just parable adjacent.  [00:30:44] Jesse Schwamb: Right.  [00:30:44] Tony Arsenal: It- but even if we aren't saying it's a parable proper, it's stronger than that. It still is using this kinda comparative ministry, comparative language that Christ has used throughout the parabolic, um, sayings of Christ.  [00:30:57] Jesse Schwamb: The construction seems a little bit less veiled because here we have Jesus implanting himself directly into the account.  [00:31:03] Tony Arsenal: Mm-hmm.  [00:31:04] Shepherd Imagery Stakes [00:31:04] Jesse Schwamb: At the same time, though, he's drawing on all the things you just said he does, especially with this allusion to shepherding, which would've been, of course, common throughout. So it seems to me a lovely bridge to all of the overt parables he's just told, but now he's bringing them all together and placing himself clearly as, like, the interpreter, as the identifier of all the things, as the one to seal up all of the edges, as it were. So it's clear that this is about the end times. All of these were all about the end times and about Jesus' role in them. And so of course here he identifies himself as the eschatological judge just to make it clear. He's the one who sits on his glorious throne, and that's significant, and that's why I think we sometimes feel like, well, this is not a parable because he's, he's being very, like, Christologically certain and direct here. You know, throughout scripture the final judgment is God's prerogative alone, but the Father has committed all that judgment to the Son, and here's Jesus affirming that. And so again, like Reformed theology, in all our conversations we've consistently emphasized that this text is in many ways, like, proof of Christ's full deity and his role as mediatorial king, and he's exercising his office as the judge at his return in glory. And though, like you said, at the same time, here's the cool parable kind of scent or flavor is you get all these nations, every person who has ever lived, not merely Israel or merely the church. And how does Jesus describe this? He goes back into parabolic language. And we got the shepherd imagery that- Yeah is, like, similar to Ezekiel 34 where God himself is judging between the sheep of his flock. And that separation, the shockingness of it, it's immediate, it's binary. There's no third category. There's only two eternal destinies. There's no purgatory, no middle ground, no post-mortem opportunity for repentance. So all that's at stake. And then again, the beauty of the language itself or the setup of the construction of the story as it unfolds is that both groups- Get the same speech with a change in do or do not, but they both ask the same question from, like, wildly different perspectives and standings. And that's the beautiful- Yeah thing to make reconciliation over is what does all this mean then? How is all this established and how is this final judgment come to be such that there are sheep and goats if, in fact, they're both doing the same things theoretically, or they're at least both asking the same questions of, well, when did this ever actually occur? That, that's what's for us to unpack either way.  [00:33:29] All Nations Gathered [00:33:29] Tony Arsenal: Yeah, and b- before we jump into, um, into the parable itself and start to unpack that, the other element that I think is worth, uh, and this just came to me so hopefully I'm not on too far of a, of a limb here. But the other element that I think is worth at least commenting on, um, we've, we've remarked, especially in these last three eschatological, um, parables, how much these are directed at the religious leaders, right? Right. The, the, the people are, um, the, the- the parables are told, um, in the context and sort of following up on these, this real directed, um, assault against the religious leaders who thought they were the ones, right? They're the ones that have a claim to the Kingdom of Heaven, they're the ones that, um, are the, you know, they're the ones that think they're doing the right thing, they're the ones that are ushering in God's kingdom. This little phrase here, "gathered all the nations," would also have really stuck in the craw of the religious leaders, right? Because the word for nations that's translated here is the same word that would el- elsewhere get translated as Gentiles, right? And the word people, when it says, "He will separate the people," that, that word people doesn't actually exist in the Greek. So if you translate this very literally, it'd say, "Before him will, will be gathered all nations, and he will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats." Now, I don't wanna go the route of saying, like, this is a parable about, like, which pe- people group will be brought into the kingdom and which won't, and I've read some that go that direction. I don't wanna go there. But this idea that, like, even in the final judgment, the people who are in view here are the Gentiles, right? Right. I think most Jewish, particularly the, the Pharisees and the Sadducees hearing this, would've, would've read this and would've read ta ethnos, and would not have thought nations the way we do. Certainly would not have thought of, like, modern nation states. They might have been thinking maybe, like, people groups in general, but they would be thinking more along the lines of, like, Psalm, Psalm 2, like, "Why do the nations rage?" kind of nations. Why do the Gentiles rage? Why do the peoples plot in vain? They would've been thinking th- this, this, uh, judgment almost, at least on the face of it, almost excludes the Jews entirely when you think about it this way. It's really now sort of, like, zooming out where at the very least, at the minimal least, the Jews are just another people group within this broader judgment of the people group. Right. So again, like, we've seen this theme that Christ is continually expanding the scope of what is considered to be the Kingdom of Heaven to include not just the Jewish people, um, but all nations, all people groups, all Gentiles and Jews alike. And in a very real sense, um, and I wanna be careful how I've said this, I know I've commented this in the past, there's a very real sense of anti-Semitism that is prominent in- reform, quote-unquote reformed circles right now that is just vile and disgusting and sinful, and has no place in any sort of Biblical Christianity. But there is a reality that the Jewish people, broadly speaking, um, rejected the Messiah, at least while he was here on Earth. Um, relatively speaking, very few Jewish people, especially in the Jewish elite, like the leadership class, accepted Christ for who he was while he was here. Many Jews came to faith through the ministry of Peter, uh, and, and even through the ministry of Paul, even though he was an apostle to the Gentiles. So it's not as though it remained the case, but at this point in Christ's ministry, the Jewish people were by and large were rejecting him as Messiah. And so this idea and, and sort of this like final culmination now saying like he gathered all the, all the Gentiles, all of the peoples, all of the nations. In Jewish, in Jewish language and, and when you look in the Old Testament, and even in some of the New Testament literature, the nations were those people out there. So even if we don't translate this as Gentiles, we don't, we don't take that more like restrictive sense, even then it still implies that Christ is talking about people out there, the non-Jewish nations- Right are being gathered before his throne. And so that's not to say, absolutely not to say that the Jewish people, that, that the Jewish people of his day or the, the... This is where it gets tricky too, 'cause like we think about modern Israel and we, we import our understandings of like nation states. That's not what was in view here. The, the idea of a modern nation state was not a concept that existed in the first century. Um, you might have something like city states, but even that is kind of like a little bit ethereal. The idea here is that all people groups, and maybe, maybe we conceptualize Israel now as one of these people groups, the Israeli Jewish people as one of these people groups. All of those people groups, Jews, Gentiles, Scythians, Athenians, Spartans, like, uh, Ethiopians, you know, all of these different people- Right ... groups that are mentioned in the, the New Testament, all of those peoples, all of those nations are gathered before the throne, and then he will separate them one from another in the same way that a shepherd sep- separates the goats. [00:38:35] Group Judgment Assurance [00:38:35] Tony Arsenal: And yes, I think there is an individualistic, um, judgment element, and this is where I think, um... And, and then I'll, I'll pause for a second. This is where I think we can go wrong reading this as a parable about the individual judgment of individuals in the future That's not really what the language here is supporting. This is supporting sort of a broader group-based judgment, and the grouping is there are those who are sheep and there are those who are goats. But it doesn't appear as though Christ is saying like, "I'm evaluating each individual person, and this person is a sheep, this person is a goat." It's, it's a broader picture that, yes, has some implications for individual personal judgment, but when we read too much of that individual personal judgment into this parable that doesn't seem to be there, that's where we start to, like, rob individual Christians of their assurance. We start to say, like, "Did you do enough? Did you feed enough poor people or did you not?" That's not really, not really what's at stake here, I don't think.  [00:39:40] Jesse Schwamb: No, it's definitely not. It's, it's important to remember just the beauty of, like, the consistent theological thread that runs all the way through the Old Testament, and then that we might expect, of course, to be manifest in Christ's teachings, which happen exactly here. So he is going all the way back to that covenantal promise seed through Abraham, single seed, many people groups, many ethnicities. In this way, the gospel is ethnic inclusive. And so it is, why wouldn't he say that in this way to express that this is exactly from all time what God wanted to do is gather all people groups to himself? Which means then by the time we get to the end of this chapter in verse 46, and there is this righteousness that... or the righteous that lead or go into eternal life, then of course we're led to believe here either directly or implicitly that that means that there would be some for whom the Pharisees would find it's, like, anathema to receive that kind of righteousness and eternal life are the ones in fact who are getting it. And so even that is scandalous. So the, the whole thing is very much a setup, and I think it's the confusion again of this is Jesus saying again to the Sadducees, like, "You are confused. You do not know the power of God. You, you search for it everywhere else but do not find it in front of you. It, it's he who speak to you. I am he. You think you search the scriptures, but you do not know." Everywhere it feels like he's saying that, and here also he's saying that again, but it's in the setup. And I'm with you. I think that there would've been a lot here that would've, like, just come right off his lips that would've been like, "Say what?" Uh, that would've been, like, offensive right off- Yeah ... the top.  [00:41:16] Tony Arsenal: Yeah.  [00:41:17] Sovereign Separation [00:41:17] Tony Arsenal: And the other, the other theme that plays out really loud and clear here, um, as we start to dig into this is, um, there's a sovereignty to this separation that is baked into, um, the king's right to decide who to keep and who to cast away. Right. So I think we, we, um, understandably read into this an assessment of the productivity or the profitability or somehow the, like, merit or worth of the sheep as contrasted to the worth of the goats. Um, and we read into it like the sheep have utility and the goats don't, so the goats get cast into the- Right outer darkness. That's not really, that's not really what's going on here, right? In a, in an agrarian society, like sheep and goats both have utility. It's not as though, like, sheep are worthless and goats aren't. There's a reason people have goats. Um, th- the, the issue here is that the king has decided that there are those on his right and there are those on his left, and the ones on his right he's gonna keep, and the ones on his left he's gonna cast away. And, and so, um, there's this sovereign election and determination that precedes the rest of this, right? It's not as though he's ... And this is where the personal, sort of personal assessment part comes in. He doesn't look at a person and go, "All right, you did a g- enough good works to qualify as a sheep, so you go ahead and go over-" Right and be a sheep. And you didn't do quite enough, so you're actually a goat, so you go over and you be a goat." He looks at, he says, "Y- sheep, goat. Goat, sheep." You know, he, he's separating them out, and then he describes what sheep do versus what goats do. And I, I, like I'm even drawing some of this language out. The sheep goats part of this is actually only, like, a verse and a half. He then flips out of this parabolic language to now go back to the sort of strictly predictive eschatological ex- like explanatory language. So this is what it's like when the Son of Man is on, on his kingdom. He separates sheep and goats. We read into, and maybe with some good reason, but we read into Uh, we read into the fact that the sheeps go to one side, the goats go to another. Then we sort of like attribute the characteristics of those who go to his right to sheep, and we attribute the characteristics... And I think we do this the wrong way. How many sermons have you heard where the whole sermon is about how sheep are obedient, and they're, they're affable, and they listen, and they, they, they are sweet and kind, and goats are stubborn, and they, they just wreck everything, and they don't listen, right? And how many s- how many sermons have you heard where they talk about, like, well, sheep and goats really look the same in the Middle Eastern context, and the only way you can tell them apart is what, by what they do? I think there's probably some, uh, benefit to thinking through those elements, but Christ does not make that point in this parable- Mm ... at least not directly, right? He said, "This is the activity. Imagine a man who has sheep and he has goats. He takes the sheep, he puts them on one side. He takes the goats on another side." That's what the separation at the end of the time, at the end of time will be like. Then he goes straight back out of the parable language into saying, "This is how the king will actually make the distinction.  [00:44:29] Predestination Before Works [00:44:29] Tony Arsenal: The ones on his left, or on his right, he will say, 'Come, you're blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.'" Right? This is predestination language, not eschatological judgment language. The sheep were guaranteed a kingdom from before the foundation of the world. Before they did anything bad or didn't do anything good, they were guaranteed a kingdom from before the foundation of the world. Then he says, he explains to them, like the context that, as you said before, that reveals that they were sheep all along. [00:45:02] Jesse Schwamb: Right.  [00:45:02] Tony Arsenal: It shows them that they were already... Man, I just, just made this connection in my head. This is the parable of the wheat and of the tares- Yep ... coming to fruition- Exactly ... at the end of time. Right. Right? The sheep and the goats were allowed to mingle until the time came when they would be separated, just as the wheat and the tares were allowed to grow up until the time when they would be reaped and separated. This is what's going on. The sheep did things that sheep do. Those on the right did the things that the people on the right would do because they were part of God's blessed kingdom all along.  [00:45:34] Jesse Schwamb: Right.  [00:45:35] Tony Arsenal: And then he goes on to explain what the people on the left did not do, not because now they've been put on the left because they didn't do it, but they were shown to have always been a part of that, part of that population. They were always goats because of these things. This shows that they were goats all along, and they did these things or failed to do these things because they were goats all along.  [00:45:58] Jesse Schwamb: That's right.  [00:45:59] Works Righteousness Trap [00:45:59] Jesse Schwamb: Let me read another verse. "For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children and also our brethren to believe in Christ and to be reconciled to God. For we know that it is by grace that we are saved after all we can do." My guess is everybody was with me- ... sounded kind of okay until that last part. And if you had that, like, as we say, like, that theological muscle memory that just made you flex or bristle there, or you had the Spidey Sense, as you say, Tony, good, because that's from 2 Nephi 25:23 from the Book of Mormon. And here's what I wanna say that's shocking, is if we read this passage of scripture that we're talking about as if there's something there that we need to do that proves that we've done enough and that somehow God will be pleased with that, even at the end of time in some small way, some modicum, then we're actually acting way more like Mormons than we are like Christians. That's just the bottom line. Yeah. Because Mormons, if you ask about this verse, rather than try to qualify that last statement by saying, "Well, that's misunderstood," or, "It's really not after all you can do," because of course it begs the question how do you know that you've done enough? How you don't- you've done all the things and that you're, you're exhausted. Their explanation of this is to double down on it and say, "Well, the context of that verse is following verse 23 actually does emphasize salvation only coming through Christ, but it also encourages continued observance of the law of Moses in order to be reconciled to God." Because that's all they could do until Christ fulfilled the law through his atonement. Even that is nonsense. So all of this to say, we have to be careful with this because I, I think you're right. We're aligning, we're running right up on this, and that is I would submit to you that we just get distracted because we always, of course, want to bring something to the party here. The, the salvation cake. We wanna, I don't know, we wanna make it, we wanna do. But God is doing all the things on our behalf. And so as a result of that, I think this parable is actually, it's about the divine prerogative and the agency of Christ in judgment at the end which belongs to him and him alone, and not about these actions. But we get caught up in the actions and we're missing this thri- divine prerogative. I also think that Christ gives this to us to reverse it on us and to show us that he sets about all things. It is in fact his foreordination and his providence. By grace we have been saved through faith, and that in providence being predestined is an act of his great love. And so this shows the extent of that love because those whom he has chosen himself are asking in disbelief as if to say, "When did I do the good works that you required?" And he said, "Well, you didn't because you could never do them apart from me."  [00:48:38] Tony Arsenal: Yeah.  [00:48:38] Jesse Schwamb: And so really that's the whole point. It's just so easy for us to get it twisted and say, "Well, doesn't it make sense that there are two groups?" Well, certainly there are in this passage. And doesn't it make good sense that because he said they did things or they didn't do things, then I just need to be about doing those things. And I think that is unfortunately the adventure in missing the point in this passage.  [00:48:58] Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah, I, I agree 100%. And it's funny 'cause you were reading that and I was like What translation of J- of First John is it? It sound, I mean, it sounds like, it sounds like something you'd read in First John It sounds okay  [00:49:09] Jesse Schwamb: until  [00:49:10] Tony Arsenal: the end. Yeah. No, I mean, like, it literally sounds like First John until- Yeah ... you get to that last part.  [00:49:14] Jesse Schwamb: Yes.  [00:49:15] Tony Arsenal: And, and I think you're right that, um, we'll, we'll explore this more next week, but what has always struck me about this passage is that the, the p- the, the people on His right, I've gotta stop saying sheep, because that's... I just made the point that that's not really what's going on. The people on His right who are called into the kingdom because it was prepared for them before the foundation, because they were elected unto that kingdom. The people on His right, they're surprised at the fact that they did these things. And it, I, I think the works righteousness way of reading this is like, "You better earn your salvation. You better get at it because if you haven't fed Jesus in disguise, then you just aren't gonna make it. At the end of the day- Mm ... He's gonna say, 'I never knew you.'" And it, whether intentionally or unintentionally, sometimes I think intentionally, it implies that we, uh, that Jesus comes to know us because we've done good works, right? When we say, "If you don't do these things, then Jesus will say, 'I never knew you,'" then what you're saying is Jesus doesn't know you apart from your good works. Right. And what the Bible says, what this passage says, just right on the face of it, is that the Kingdom of Heaven was prepared for those whom Christ has elected before the foundation of the world, or who the Father has elected, who are blessed by the Father before the foundation of the world. Now, obviously the Father had to know those people in some sense-  [00:50:43] Jesse Schwamb: That's  [00:50:43] Tony Arsenal: right ... before the foundation of the world in order for them to be blessed by Him and for Him to prepare a kingdom. So then to come back to the end of it and say, "Well, there are some of those, uh, who the Father never knew because they didn't do enough work," well, the problem is that those who did the good work, the Father knew before they did the good works. They didn't merit the good works. I mean- Right ... it's funny you, you bring up the, the Mormons, and that's certainly true, but, like, you could substitute in, at least on this regard, right? There are meaningful, important differences between the groups I'm about to say and Mormons, that would be the dividing line between those who are possibly saved and those who are y- definitely not saved, right? You could substitute Arminians, who wanna say God looks down the corridor of time, and the reason He prepared a kingdom in advance for them from the foundation of the world is 'cause He saw that they would do these things that would merit salvation, or He saw that they would make the proper decision to receive His grace, right? Or Roman Catholics or Eastern Orthodoxes in a different sense, but similarly who would say like, "Well, yeah, God knows in advance that you're gonna merit salvation, so He prepared- Right ... this kingdom anticipating your merit that you would contribute or your participation or, or whatever." I think in a certain sense, um, you could even apply this to some Lutheran theology, right? Which would say, like, "Well, God prepared this kingdom for you from the foundation of the world because he looked down the corridor of time and he understood that you were not going to resist the grace he gave," right? You were not gonna reject his grace. Um, it really truly only is Reformed theology that can say, "No, God prepared this kingdom in advance for you, and it was the preparation of that kingdom that brought you through this such that you did the good works that you did, such that you made the wise decision to follow Christ that you did. That is caused by the fact that God prepared a kingdom for you in advance, not that you somehow caused this kingdom to be prepared for you." A- and aga- again, again, like, this is dicey. It gets into, like, logical ordering, but fundamentally, a- as far as I can understand it, every competing view besides sort of a Calvinistic understanding of predestination election has to say that in some sense God prepares the kingdom for you as a response to something you have done, or chose- Right to do or chose not to do. The reality is that this passage is saying, "No To those who are on the right. He didn't separate them based on the fact that they did these things. He just said, "You are on the right, and now to those who are on the right, I say to you, come into the kingdom that is blessed. You're blessed by my Father. Come into this kingdom prepared from the foundation of the world." So I think, you know, we're c

“Since God in his wisdom saw to it that the world would never know him through human wisdom, he has used our foolish preaching to save those who believe.” (1 Corinthians 1:21 NLT) As we look back in history and see the names of Jonathan Edwards, George Whitefield, Billy Sunday, Billy Graham, and others, we may be tempted to pray for the Lord to raise up a similar firebrand to ignite a much-needed revival in our nation today. But the Bible makes it clear that revival—the spread of the Good News of Jesus Christ—is not something that’s best left to the experts. Who’s called to preach the gospel? According to God’s Word, it isn’t just pastors, teachers, evangelists, and missionaries. It’s any person, anywhere, who names the name of Christ. Jesus Himself gave us our marching orders when He said, “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you” (Matthew 28:19–20 NLT). Jesus called His followers to share the gospel. And He called us to share it everywhere. In another variation of what we call the Great Commission, Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone” (Mark 16:15 NLT). We can localize this by saying, “Go into all your world and preach the gospel. Go to all your family, to your workplace, and to your neighborhood. Go into your sphere of influence.” In other words, lay the groundwork for localized revivals. Why are we to do this? Because God’s primary way of reaching people is through people. The apostle Paul wrote that “since God in his wisdom saw to it that the world would never know him through human wisdom, he has used our foolish preaching to save those who believe” (1 Corinthians 1:21 NLT). God has chosen to communicate His gospel primarily through us as we share it verbally. That’s not to say there isn’t a place for living the gospel. In fact, living the gospel—letting Christ’s light shine through us—effectively earns us the right to share the gospel. But we shouldn’t merely rely on our silent example. We need to look for opportunities to specifically articulate the gospel message to others. The apostle Paul also wrote, “And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?” (Romans 10:14 NLT). We should be doing this because we care, because we have a burden for people who don’t know the Lord. As individual believers, we may not be able to plan a revival—not in the broadest sense of the word, at least. But we can launch individual or localized revivals in the lives of others by sharing the gospel as Jesus called us to do. Reflection question: Where would be a good starting point for igniting a localized revival in your sphere of influence? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! Join Greg Laurie for the Annual Jesus Revolution Baptism at Pirate's Cove on July 18. — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to a special scripture-focused bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, where we think about the concept of the Trinity—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—and what their presence and purpose means to each of our individual lives. Pastor, author, and speaker Timothy Jones helps us contemplate this relational view, and how the communing of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit brings a new level of intimacy and belovedness to each of us. Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned: Jesus Calling Podcast Jesus Calling Jesus Always Jesus Listens Timothy Jones Fully Beloved Interview Quotes: “I found that knowing God as Father, Son, and Spirit warms our view of God. There’s a real tenderness here, and that surprises some people.” - Timothy Jones “I see in the three-person portrait of God a wonderful invitation to know all three in more intimate ways, to realize how God comes close to give us help for our everyday life.” - Timothy Jones “Before humankind even appeared on the scene, God was already busy relating. It makes sense that God, already full of love and communing, would create.” - Timothy Jones “God is not some aloof, distant being. This is not some deity who can’t understand what it means to be in an intimate relationship.” - Timothy Jones “Because God has shown us this picture of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, we glimpse a delight that grows out of a communion that’s already at play between the three persons of the Trinity.” - Timothy Jones “We’re all searching for a more lasting love, something that’s reliable, sturdy, dependable, and abundant. This is what I see in the picture of the Trinity. Because of all this relational depth, it’s not intimidating as much as it is life-changing.” - Timothy Jones “Human tenderness alone cannot satisfy our deepest longings. What I’m seeing here [in the Trinity] can heighten our anticipation for a life with God, a relationally richer life.” - Timothy Jones “God cares about our daily worries, about the hardest things that happen to us, whether we’re loved and valued.” - Timothy Jones “The early church spoke of the Trinity not merely as doctrine, but as something that could take a lifetime of exploring and pondering, and could deepen and enrich our worship in wonderful ways.” - Timothy Jones ________________________ Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok *Episode produced by Four Eyes Media* Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.