Podcasts about Behold

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: James 1-5 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible podcast! In today's episode, Hunter invites us to gather on this 15th day of December for day 349 in our journey through the Bible. Together, we explore the heart of God as revealed in the book of James, discovering how God's light and steadfast love guide us through life's troubles and joys. Hunter encourages us to look deeply into scripture—through the lens of Jesus—reminding us of our identity as God's prized possessions, never forgotten or forsaken. Throughout this episode, we reflect on practical faith, genuine love, and the power of prayer, soaking in wisdom for everyday living. Whether enduring trials or seeking peace, Hunter assures us that God's grace is abundant and His presence is near. After reading and contemplating the Word, we move into a spirit-filled time of prayer, lifting up ourselves, our families, and the world. Gratitude echoes for the community that makes this ministry possible, and listeners are invited to partner in spreading hope and encouragement. As the episode closes, you'll be reminded of one life-changing truth: you are deeply loved. Join us as we listen, pray, and walk forward in God's joy together. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Wanderers brought back. This is a story of grace—one that is written over every human life. All of us have wandered, just like sheep, each one straying off on our own path. But the Good Shepherd does not leave us lost; he pursues us. God was not content with the ninety-nine—he sought after the one, every wandering soul. That is the good news: God's actions, his love, reach for the whole world. Behold the Lamb of God, slain for the sins of all—the enormity of this gospel is that it is for everyone, without exception. Sometimes this news seems so good it almost defies belief, and James knows this. He warns us not to forget who we truly are; not to look into the mirror of God's word and then forget our reflection when we turn away. In Christ, God chose to give birth to us, making us his prized possession, his beloved children. But it is easy to forget—especially when the truth seems too good. We fall back into the old lie: that God is distant, disapproving, far off. James wants to remind us how loved, how valued, how seen we are. God offered himself for us, count us among his treasured flock. This love is for all people and it's so immense we might struggle to take it in. Yet this, James says, is the truth: you are the beloved of God. Look deeply, look Christologically, at the word of God—see all scripture through Jesus, for he reveals both the Father's heart and our true identity. Invite the Holy Spirit to help you see it. The reality is better than you've imagined: you are loved, pursued, made new in Christ. My prayer for myself, for my family, and for you is that after seeing who you are in the mirror of God's word, you will not forget, but reflect that love in this world—in your relationships, in your home, everywhere God leads you. May we not be wanderers any longer, but living witnesses to the grace that has found us, restored us, and made us whole. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  b. 

Text: John 1:1–181 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. 9 The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. 12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 (John bore witness about him, and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.'”) 16 For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God; God the only Son, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known. INTRODUCTION: A "JESUS" Series Knowing Christ CHRIST BEFORE CHRISTMAS (vv. 1-3)             John 1:1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”           Jesus is the CREATOR           Colossians 1:15-17 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. CHRIST WITH US (vv.14-17)                 John 1:14  14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.  CHRIST REVEALS GOD (v. 18)              John 1:18“No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, He has made Him known.”Application: What does it mean to me?           Christ is the Creator — Worship Him            Christ is the Savior — Receive Him             Christ is God — Trust HimConclusion

Mark 4:35–41; Mark 5:1–2035 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don't you care if we drown?” 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” 5 They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. 2 When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him. 3 This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. 4 For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. 5 Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones. 6 When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of him. 7 He shouted at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In God's name don't torture me!” 8 For Jesus had said to him, “Come out of this man, you impure spirit!” 9 Then Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.” 10 And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area. 11 A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. 12 The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” 13 He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned. 14 Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. 15 When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 16 Those who had seen it told the people what had happened to the demon-possessed man—and told about the pigs as well. 17 Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region. 18 As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. 19 Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” 20 So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed. INTRODUCTION: A "JESUS" Series JESUS HAS POWER OVER NATURE (Mark 4:35–41)JESUS HAS POWER OVER DARKNESS (Mark 5:1–20) JESUS HAS THE POWER TO REDEEM AND SEND (Mark 5:18–20) Conclusion

If God can perfectly order the events of the Christmas story, we can entrust Him with stories of our own. We should mirror Mary's surrender and submission to God's plan. Notes: Galatians 4:4 (NKJV)But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. READ Luke 1:26–33 #1 God Is Always On Time Luke 1:28 (NKJV)“Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” Luke 1:29 (NKJV)But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. God is always on time. READ Luke 1:34–38 #2 God’s Timing Requires Our Surrender Luke 1:38 (NKJV)“Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” Matthew 6:10 (NKJV)Your kingdom come.Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. READ Mark 8:34–36 God’s plan is always better. Surrender doesn’t mean God makes everything comfortable.It means God makes everything count. Surrender always leads to Christ. Psalm 84:10 (NKJV)For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand.I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my Godthan dwell in the tents of wickedness. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”—Jim Elliott READ Luke 1:39–45 #3 Our Obedience Has A Radius Luke 1:15 (NKJV)For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. What is God asking you to do? What areas in your life is God calling you to submit and surrender? Too many Christians are satisfied with comfort when God is offering conquest. Obey God.Submit to scripture.Live a life of integrity committed to God. Let it be to me according to your word. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If God can perfectly order the events of the Christmas story, we can entrust Him with stories of our own. We should mirror Mary's surrender and submission to God's plan. Notes: Galatians 4:4 (NKJV)But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. READ Luke 1:26–33 #1 God Is Always On Time Luke 1:28 (NKJV)“Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” Luke 1:29 (NKJV)But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. God is always on time. READ Luke 1:34–38 #2 God’s Timing Requires Our Surrender Luke 1:38 (NKJV)“Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” Matthew 6:10 (NKJV)Your kingdom come.Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. READ Mark 8:34–36 God’s plan is always better. Surrender doesn’t mean God makes everything comfortable.It means God makes everything count. Surrender always leads to Christ. Psalm 84:10 (NKJV)For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand.I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my Godthan dwell in the tents of wickedness. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”—Jim Elliott READ Luke 1:39–45 #3 Our Obedience Has A Radius Luke 1:15 (NKJV)For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. What is God asking you to do? What areas in your life is God calling you to submit and surrender? Too many Christians are satisfied with comfort when God is offering conquest. Obey God.Submit to scripture.Live a life of integrity committed to God. Let it be to me according to your word. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Behold - Week 3

When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ,he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question,"Are you the one who is to come,or should we look for another?"Jesus said to them in reply,"Go and tell John what you hear and see:the blind regain their sight,the lame walk,lepers are cleansed,the deaf hear,the dead are raised,and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me."As they were going off,Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John,"What did you go out to the desert to see?A reed swayed by the wind?Then what did you go out to see?Someone dressed in fine clothing?Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces.Then why did you go out?  To see a prophet?Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet.This is the one about whom it is written:Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you;he will prepare your way before you.Amen, I say to you,among those born of womenthere has been none greater than John the Baptist;yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he."

Luke 1:26-38 ESV Birth of Jesus Foretold26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” 29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”34 And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?”35 And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. 36 And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. For more information about Redeemer Church Lubbock visit our website at redeemerlubbock.org.

12/14/2025 Rev. Paul Bang   Proverbs 31:10-31   English Standard Version     The Woman Who Fears the Lord 10 [a] An excellent wife who can find?     She is far more precious than jewels. 11 The heart of her husband trusts in her,     and he will have no lack of gain. 12 She does him good, and not harm,     all the days of her life. 13 She seeks wool and flax,     and works with willing hands. 14 She is like the ships of the merchant;     she brings her food from afar. 15 She rises while it is yet night     and provides food for her household     and portions for her maidens. 16 She considers a field and buys it;     with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. 17 She dresses herself[b] with strength     and makes her arms strong. 18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.     Her lamp does not go out at night. 19 She puts her hands to the distaff,     and her hands hold the spindle. 20 She opens her hand to the poor     and reaches out her hands to the needy. 21 She is not afraid of snow for her household,     for all her household are clothed in scarlet.[c] 22 She makes bed coverings for herself;     her clothing is fine linen and purple. 23 Her husband is known in the gates     when he sits among the elders of the land. 24 She makes linen garments and sells them;     she delivers sashes to the merchant. 25 Strength and dignity are her clothing,     and she laughs at the time to come. 26 She opens her mouth with wisdom,     and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. 27 She looks well to the ways of her household     and does not eat the bread of idleness. 28 Her children rise up and call her blessed;     her husband also, and he praises her: 29 “Many women have done excellently,     but you surpass them all.” 30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain,     but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands,     and let her works praise her in the gates.

Let's turn together in our Bibles to the book of Genesis, chapter 3, and focus our attention on verse 15. This is one of those pivotal verses in Scripture that has rightly been called the protoevangelium—the first announcement of the good news of salvation. In the King James Version, which we'll use throughout our study today, it reads: "And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Imagine the scene in the Garden of Eden just moments after the fall. Adam and Eve have disobeyed God, eaten the forbidden fruit, and now they stand before Him in shame and fear. The harmony of creation is shattered. Sin has entered the world, bringing with it death, curse, and separation from God. It seems as though Satan, working through the serpent, has scored a complete victory. Yet right here, in the midst of pronouncing judgment, God speaks a word of incredible grace—a promise that shines like a beacon in the darkness. This verse is the seed from which the entire message of redemption grows. It's the foundation for everything that follows in the Bible, pointing us ultimately to the Lord Jesus Christ. Today, I want us to unpack this promise carefully, phrase by phrase, and trace how it unfolds through Scripture. We'll see God's sovereign grace at work, the conflict between the two seeds, the suffering and triumph of the Savior, and what it all means for us personally. My prayer is that as we study this together, we'll gain a deeper appreciation for the gospel and a stronger confidence in God's unbreakable plan. 1. The Divine Initiative: "And I Will Put Enmity" Notice first who takes the initiative here. God says, "And I will put enmity between thee and the woman." The "thee" refers to the serpent, and as Revelation 12:9 and 20:2 make clear, this is none other than Satan himself: "And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him." God doesn't command Adam or Eve to start fighting the devil. No, He declares sovereignly, "I will put enmity." This is pure grace from beginning to end. Fallen humanity, left to ourselves, has no natural hostility toward Satan. In fact, we're at peace with him and at enmity with God. As Ephesians 2:1-3 reminds us: "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others." And Colossians 1:21: "And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled." By nature, we love the darkness and hate the light (John 3:19-20). But when God plants this enmity in a heart, everything changes. The one who once listened eagerly to the serpent's lies now becomes his enemy. This is the beginning of regenerating grace—the Holy Spirit turning a heart of stone into a heart of flesh. Think about it: Eve had just been deceived by the serpent, yet God promises to create hostility between them. From that moment, humanity is divided into two spiritual lines: those who remain friends with the serpent and those in whom God has worked to make them hate sin and love holiness. This isn't something we muster up on our own; it's God's doing. What encouragement this is! If you're a believer today, that enmity toward sin in your heart is evidence of God's grace at work in you from the very foundation of the gospel promise. 2. The Two Seeds: "Between Thy Seed and Her Seed" Next, God speaks of the ongoing conflict: "and between thy seed and her seed." Throughout Scripture, this theme of two seeds runs like a thread, dividing all humanity spiritually. The serpent's seed are those who belong to him by nature and choice. Jesus said it plainly in John 8:44: "Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it." We see this line early on with Cain, who murdered his brother Abel. It continues through history: Pharaoh oppressing Israel, Haman plotting against the Jews, Herod slaughtering the innocents, Judas betraying Christ, and every unregenerate person who opposes God and His people. But there's another seed—the seed of the woman. This is unusual language. Everywhere else in Genesis, offspring is described as the seed of the man: Abraham's seed, Isaac's seed, Jacob's seed, David's seed. Why here "her seed"? Because this points to the virgin birth. The promised Redeemer would have no human father. He would be conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of a woman alone. Paul understood this clearly in Galatians 4:4: "But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law." And Isaiah prophesied it in Isaiah 7:14: "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." This singular wording in Genesis 3:15 is God's early hint at the miraculous incarnation. The Champion who would defeat Satan would be fully human—born of a woman—yet fully God, without a sinful human father to pass on Adam's guilt. As we trace this promise, we see it narrowing. From the seed of the woman, to Seth's line, to Noah, to Shem, to Abraham (whose seed would bless all nations—Galatians 3:16 points this to Christ), to Judah (Genesis 49:10: "The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be"), to David (2 Samuel 7:12-16, the everlasting throne), to the virgin's Son in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2: "But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting"). Every type and shadow in the Old Testament points forward to this Seed: Abel's acceptable lamb, the ark preserving Noah through judgment, the ram provided for Isaac, the Passover lamb, the bronze serpent lifted up (John 3:14), the scapegoat bearing away sins, the daily offerings—all crying out, "The Seed is coming!" 3. The Conflict and Victory: "It Shall Bruise Thy Head, and Thou Shalt Bruise His Heel" Now we come to the heart of the promise: "it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." Note the pronouns carefully. In the Hebrew, it's singular and masculine: "He shall bruise thy head." This isn't a general conflict between groups; it's personal. One individual—the Seed of the woman—will deliver the decisive blow. The bruising of the heel speaks of real suffering. The serpent will strike, causing pain, humiliation, even apparent defeat. But a bruised heel is not fatal; it heals. A crushed head, however, is final—total destruction of the enemy's power. This is a preview of the cross and the resurrection. At Calvary, Satan bruised Christ's heel. From the manger onward, the enemy opposed Him: Herod's massacre, the temptations in the wilderness, the opposition of religious leaders, the demons' fury, and finally the horrors of Gethsemane and Golgotha. Philippians 2:6-8 describes the depth of this humiliation: "Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." The eternal Son veiled His glory, entered a virgin's womb, lived as a servant, and died a criminal's death. On the cross, darkness covered the earth, and He cried, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46, quoting Psalm 22:1). Satan seemed triumphant—the Seed was dead and buried. But the promise was only a bruised heel, not a crushed head. On the third day, Christ rose victorious! As Psalm 16:10 prophesied: "For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption." Hebrews 2:14 declares the result: "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil." And Colossians 2:15: "And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it." At the cross, Jesus disarmed the demonic forces. Death's sting is gone for believers (1 Corinthians 15:55-57). Satan's head received a mortal wound, though he still thrashes about. The full crushing awaits Christ's return. Then, as Revelation 20:10 promises: "And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever." The King will return in glory (Revelation 19:11-16), and the ancient Eden promise will be completely fulfilled. 4. The Incarnation: God Manifest in the Flesh To accomplish this victory, the Seed had to become one of us. Galatians 4:4-5 again: "But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." 1 Timothy 3:16 captures the wonder: "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." The infinite God became finite, the eternal entered time, the Creator became a creature—yet without ceasing to be God. He who upheld the universe lay in a manger. This is the heart of the gospel: Immanuel, God with us. Personal Application: Living in the Victory What does all this mean for us today? Genesis 3:15 isn't just history; it's our story. By nature, we were all seed of the serpent—children of wrath. But if God has saved you, He has planted enmity in your heart toward sin and Satan. You've begun to hate what you once loved and love what you once hated. At the cross, Christ's heel was bruised for you, and Satan's head was crushed on your behalf. By faith in Him, you've passed from death to life, from darkness to light. Now we live out this victory daily. When you resist temptation, bear suffering for Christ, or share the gospel boldly, you're participating in the ongoing conflict—and the outcome is certain. Satan may bruise your heel through trials, slander, or temptation, but he cannot touch your Head, who sits at God's right hand (Psalm 110:1: "The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool"). So stand firm. The battle is the Lord's. The victory is already secured. And soon, the Seed of the woman will return to make all things new. May this first gospel promise encourage your heart today. The God who spoke grace in Eden is the same God who speaks it to us now through His Son. Trust Him. Walk with Him. Look for His coming.

Luke 1:26-38 English Standard VersionBirth of Jesus Foretold26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” 29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”34 And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?”35 And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. 36 And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren.37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.English Standard Version (ESV)The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.ESV Text Edition: 2025. 

Today, we say hello to my friend Genci, pastor of Eagles Church in Tirana, Albania, along with all our brothers and sisters who live in Albania. Genci is a man of character who loves his flock and has a beautiful family. The point of mentioning we are sinners, bigger on the inside and lonely, is to demonstrate our great need not only for salvation but to know and be known by others, most critically, God. In the lives of Jeremiah and Job, we see lives that are fully satisfied and trusting in the deepest of sorrows. But how did they get there?By consistent communion, conversation (prayer) with our Creator, Savior, and Sustainer.In a challenging, nearly 50-year ministry with Almighty God, Jeremiah learned through every circumstance:"There is none like Thee, O LORD; Thou art great, and great is Thy name in might.” Jeremiah 10:6"I know, O LORD, that a man's way is not in himself; Nor is it in a man who walks to direct his steps.” Jeremiah 10:23"Are there any among the idols of the nations who give rain? Or can the heavens grant showers? Is it not Thou, O LORD our God? Therefore we hope in Thee, For Thou art the one who hast done all these things.” Jeremiah 14:22"Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?” Jeremiah 32:27"Correct me, O LORD, but with justice; Not with Thine anger, lest Thou bring me to nothing.” Jeremiah 6:24And above all,"Thus says the LORD, "Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; 24 but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things," declares the LORD.” Jeremiah 9:23-24Brethren, let's pray for one another."What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Or go to www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 008Episode006

Behold Your GodJoseph's PerspectiveBrian Peterson12/14/25Matthew 1:18-25

Series: STANDALONE SERMON | Scripture: John 1:1, 14; Romans 5:12-21; 1 Corinthians 15:20-22, 15:45-49 | Description: A look at how the Word became flesh in order to be the federal head of a new humanity.

Scripture: Matthew 27:11-50; Revelation 5 Text: Heidelberg Catechism Lord's Day 15 Theme: We have reason to rejoice, for the Innocent One gives us life.

Christmas Songs Pt. 2: Zechariah's Song By Louie Marsh, 12-14-2025 67  And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied, saying, Luke 1:67 (ESV)   Zachariah praises God for the birth of his son, John the Baptist, and the Messiah to come.   1) God VISITING us.   "68"Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited…" (Luke 1:68a, ESV)   "14Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." (Isaiah 7:14, ESV)   2) God REDEEMING us.   … and redeemed his people" (Luke 1:68b, ESV)   "4But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, 5to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons." (Galatians 4:4–5, ESV)   3) God DELIVERING us.   "69and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, 70as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, 71that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us;" (Luke 1:69–71, ESV)   Show picture of Emily & play audio.   4) God showing us MERCY.   "72to show the mercy promised to our fathers…" (Luke 1:72a, ESV)   "12But when he heard it, he said, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 13Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners."" (Matthew 9:12–13, ESV)   5) God giving me PURPOSE.   "72… and to remember his holy covenant, 73the oath that he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us 74that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, 75in holiness and righteousness before him all our days." (Luke 1:72b–75, ESV)   · My purpose is – to serve God – HIS WAY.   o The character of my service Is…   Ø Holy - focused on GOD.   "1I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship." (Romans 12:1, ESV)   Ø Righteous – doing things GOD'S WAY.   "11Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for "The righteous shall live by faith."" (Galatians 3:11, ESV)   Ø Free – living in the light of the TRUTH.   "2The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone." (Isaiah 9:2, ESV)   Ø Loving & Pleasing God  – without FEAR.   "18There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love." (1 John 4:18, ESV)   Ø Life Long – ALL our days   "8who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 1:8, ESV)   6) God FORGIVING us.   "76And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, 77to give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins, 78because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high 79to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace."" (Luke 1:76–79, ESV)  

We're continuing in our Advent sermon series "Behold: A Savior is Born" this week, as Pastor Kent brings a sermon titled "The Joy of Anticipation."Christmas is a season of anticipation, as we look forward to spending time with family and friends, giving and receiving gifts, or having some down time to rest and recharge before we launch into a new year. Many of those things may also bring us joy, but not often without a bit of stress as well, as we shop, prep, and complete other tasks. True joy is only found in the promise and arrival of Jesus, and the kind of deep and abiding joy that he brings to and for all people.To learn more about us, visit www.braemarbaptist.com.

Chapter 11 of Heroes in the Bible: Jesus is inspired by the Gospels. Beware and Behold - Jesus warns the disciples of the age to come, and reveals his glory for a brief moment. Jesus is preparing his disciple's heart for his inevitable departure, therefore every action and teaching is laced with seemingly greater urgency. Listen to some of the greatest Bible stories ever told and make prayer a priority in your life by downloading the Pray.com app. Sign up for Heroes in the Bible devotionals at https://www.heroesinthebible.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Behold, Logan is here, for as long as I draw breath, I will not give up the ship. It's been too long a hiatus since you've heard this sweet melodic tune. Rejoice, now my children, Rejoice!

The angel Gabriel was sent from Godto a town of Galilee called Nazareth,to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph,of the house of David,and the virgin's name was Mary.And coming to her, he said,“Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”But she was greatly troubled at what was saidand pondered what sort of greeting this might be.Then the angel said to her,“Do not be afraid, Mary,for you have found favor with God.Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son,and you shall name him Jesus.He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High,and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father,and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever,and of his Kingdom there will be no end.”But Mary said to the angel,“How can this be,since I have no relations with a man?”And the angel said to her in reply,“The Holy Spirit will come upon you,and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.Therefore the child to be bornwill be called holy, the Son of God.And behold, Elizabeth, your relative,has also conceived a son in her old age,and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren;for nothing will be impossible for God.”Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.May it be done to me according to your word.”Then the angel departed from her.

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. - Revelation 3:20

Matthew 1:22–25 - All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: [23] “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). [24] When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, [25] but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. (ESV) Beginning January 1 - 2026 - A new DAILY podcast will be available to help you wind down, reset your mind on God’s truth, and prepare for a night of rest and rejuvenation. “The Daily Mindset” will launch on the podcast player of your choice on January 1, 2026. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode: https://EveningMindset.com

Read OnlineThen the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus.” Luke 1:30–31Of all the saints throughout the ages, none has proved to be as powerful an evangelist as the Mother of God. While on Earth, she lived a mostly hidden life, demonstrating the perfection of virtue to those closest to her. As a young mother, she cared daily for the needs of her divine Son, constantly pondering the mystery of His Incarnation as it unfolded before her eyes. Her love for her Son, lived out during Jesus' earthly life, overflowed from her Immaculate Heart and continues to do so today.After being assumed body and soul into Heaven, her work did not cease. As Queen of Heaven and Earth, she continues to intercede for her spiritual children, mediating the grace we need to grow in holiness. Throughout history, many Marian apparitions have been reported. While numerous reports have not been formally approved, some have, including the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe in 1531 to Saint Juan Diego.Following the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire in 1521 by Hernán Cortés, the capital was rebuilt into what became Mexico City. Despite the cruelty some Spanish settlers inflicted on the Indigenous people, the Catholic Church, through missionaries and leaders, including Bishop Juan de Zumárraga, sought to protect their rights and dignity while evangelizing them. Many of the Indigenous were understandably suspicious of the missionaries, yet some converted, including a man named Cuauhtlatoatzin, who took the Christian name Juan Diego after his baptism, and his wife, who took the name María Lucía.On December 9, 1531, while walking to Mass and catechism class, Juan Diego passed Tepeyac Hill, where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to him. She spoke to him in his native language, revealed herself as the Mother of God, and asked for a chapel to be built in her honor on that very spot. When Juan took the message to Bishop Zumárraga, the bishop asked for a sign.On December 12, Juan's uncle fell seriously ill. While hurrying to find a priest for the Last Rites, Juan took a different route to avoid delaying his journey, but the Mother of God appeared again. She assured him that his uncle was already healed and provided the promised sign for the bishop. She instructed Juan to pick roses blooming unseasonably on the hill; when he brought them to the bishop in his tilma, an image of the Virgin, just as Juan had seen her, appeared on his cloak. Juan Diego's tilma now hangs in the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, in Mexico City, fulfilling the Blessed Mother's request.While the miraculous image was awe-inspiring, what followed was even more astounding. Over the next decade, millions of Indigenous people embraced the Christian faith, marking one of the most remarkable mass conversions in Church history—all due to the Blessed Mother's evangelization and intervention. Her love for the Indigenous people and her desire for their salvation brought her to them personally, confirming the truth of the Gospel preached by the Church.As we honor Our Lady of Guadalupe, reflect today on the tender love of the Mother of God. She deeply desired the salvation of the Indigenous people, just as she desires the salvation of all. Pray for her intercession so that millions more around the world may hear and accept God's saving message. Most loving Virgin of Guadalupe, as you looked down from Heaven upon the struggles and suffering of the conquered people of the Aztec Empire, your Immaculate Heart overflowed with compassion for them. As a result, you went to them personally to share the saving message of Your Son. Please pray for me, for the Americas, and for all your children, that we all will be guided to Your Son and come to know His gift of salvation. Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us. Jesus, I trust in You.Main Image- Image via WikimediaFeatured Image - First Miracle of Our Lady of Guadalupe by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Are the ten plagues just divine punishment? Or are they intended to form a people? In this episode, Dr. Dru Johnson sits down with Dr. Rick Wadholm and Pastor Dalton Avery, co-authors of Plagued by Faith, to explore a more layered vision of the plague narratives in Exodus. Rather than merely acts of judgment, the plagues are portrayed as formative, disruptive events that unmake Egypt's religious, political, and economic worldview—and detach Israel from it. The Nile River, Egypt's source of life, is turned to blood not only to confront Pharaoh, but to sever Israel's spiritual dependence on Egypt. The calendar is reset at Passover, reorienting the people's very sense of time and community. These acts weren't random—they were theological statements shaping Israel's identity, even while challenging Egypt's gods . As Dalton notes, “The Lord is not out here just doing violence for no reason, but there's redemptive heart, there's redemptive intent in every action of the Living God” . Rick adds, “Behold the face of God who sends plagues… somehow to offer a re-visioning of these stories as revealing this God”. We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/give For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought Threads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthought X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters: 00:00 The Genesis of the Book 03:22 God vs. The Gods: Understanding the Plagues 06:17 Deconstruction and Identity: The Plagues' Purpose 09:27 The River: A Symbol of Life and Security 18:26 Calendar and Community: Redefining Time for Israel 21:51 Lessons from Egypt: What to Keep and What to Leave Behind 23:38 The River's Dual Role: Life and Death 25:22 Corporate Responsibility and Divine Justice 27:02 Women of Courage: Midwives and Prophetic Resistance 30:49 Jesus and the Exodus: Parallels and Fulfillment 35:47 The Ongoing Plagues: Lessons from Israel's Journey 39:48 Plagued by Faith: Understanding God's Intentions

Brian From sits down with Isaiah Nichols, Creative Director at Gospel Life Church, to explore Behold—a free, immersive Christmas experience blending original music, Hamilton-inspired storytelling, live animals, and a bustling Bethlehem marketplace. Nichols describes the vision behind the production and why Christmas is a uniquely open season for sharing the gospel and inviting friends into church life. The conversation highlights creativity, community outreach, and the heart behind helping families encounter the story of Jesus in a fresh and joyful way.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I greet you in Jesus' precious Name! It is Thursday morning, the 11th of December, 2025, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today. We start in the Gospel of Matthew 16:16: Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Then we go to Mark 8:29: “Peter answered and said to Him, “You are the Christ.” We go to Matthew 1:23“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” It's all in the Name. It is the most powerful Name in the universe! The only time the people wanted to stone Jesus wasn't because he was healing the sick, raising the dead, opening blind eyes, restoring the cripples, delivering people from leprosy and all kinds of diseases. No, no! They were happy with that, but when He said, ”I am who I am.” When He said, ”I am God made flesh.” Then they wanted to stone Him and nothing has changed. Even as I am recording this message early in the morning, there are people in the world who are being martyred, not for stealing, not for murdering, not for raping, not for plundering, but because we say Jesus is God. It's using that Name!People are being put in jail, as I'm talking to you now, because they have been found in possession of a Bible on them. Why? Because the devil hates God and the devil hates God's people, but the good news is, when you and I use that Name, and I've done it all my life, there is power in the Name. I have seen the Lord with my own eyes, and I have many witnesses of the weather changing because we pray in that Name. I have seen sick people healed because we have said, ”In the Name of Jesus Christ, be healed!” Today, do not be ashamed of the Gospel of Christ because that is where the power is. We are not in any way to apologise for our faith to anybody. When you use the Name God, no one is offended because God is who you presume Him to be. Maybe you worship the trees, maybe you worship some idol, some foreign god, but when you use the Name which is above every other Name, then all the demons in hell hate to hear that Name, but that is where the power is!Today and this Christmas season, let us worship Immanuel, God with us. That little baby, in that manger in Bethlehem, came down from heaven to earth to save you and me.Jesus bless you and have a wonderful day.Goodbye.

.    Job is so committed to his service to God that he declares, “Though he slay me I will hope in him, yet I will argue my ways to his face.  This will be my salvation. That the godless shall not come before him.” [v.15,16]  Yet when God finally reveals himself in conversation and “answered Job out of the whirlwind.” [30 v.1] Job is almost silenced, see v.3-5. Later God speaks of the “friends” and says his “anger burns against” them… for you have not spoken of me what is right as my servant Job has.” [40 v.7]     Are we speaking of God and his Son “what is right”?  Sadly, many use “whitewash” in their self-confident portrayal of what God is; what many talk of as “faith” has no real substance. This took our thoughts to what we read today in Peter's 1st Epistle, he told the believers “if necessary (in the wisdom of God) you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith – more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire – may be found to result in praise and glory and honour at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” [1 v.6,7]      May our faith become really genuine, if it is not that way already. May we not deceive ourselves by using “whitewash” in our thinking and ways of talking.     Have you seen it?  The context of the above statement we read today in the Epistle of James is most interesting – and challenging!  We can say that we have seen the purpose of the Lord in many things, in particular in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, but note the particular context in which James makes this statement.. “As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.  Behold, we consider those blessed who remain steadfast.  You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.” [Ch.5 v.10,11]The Lord does nothing without a purpose, but do we always recognize that purpose?  Our reading of Job illustrates God's purpose with him in developing his character.  The prophets all went through a similar development of character, although only in the larger books is this fully apparent. Studies of the lives of Jeremiah and Isaiah are most revealing about this!  Now James was writing when the nation of Israel was soon to be destroyed.  In v. 3 today he calls them “the last days” and he has many thoughts very suitable for these last days of the Gentile era.  Patience and steadfastness were vital qualities. The Greek words could also be translated as endurance. It is God's will and purpose that we go through trial, look at Ch.1 v.2-4. James' life was a huge learning curve.  If we accept that, in all probability his mother was Mary (the mother of Jesus) and that Jesus made a special appearance to him after his resurrection (1 Cor. 15 v.7) we see that James is writing this as he reaches the climax of his life. Historical records indicate fairly clearly that he was martyred in A D 62. So James marvelled at the purpose of the Lord in his life and he is exhorting others to see the same in their lives – and so remain steadfast under trial: “establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.” [v.8]   What an appropriate message and example for us as we near the end of 2013 and the events in and, especially around God's Holy Land show seemingly endless conflict, the latter day “purpose of the Lord” is unfolding – and God's purpose will become increasingly clear to those who really know his word..

Ultimate Reconciliation of All (1) (audio) David Eells – 12/10/25 I have found that the truth always motivates people to holiness, to turn loose of the world and run after God; but a lie always makes people comfortable where they are, and there are a lot of lies out there. People who like to make up their own gospel turn the grace of God into lasciviousness by choosing to believe that once saved is always saved. That means there's no use in taking any warning from the Lord seriously, since that false doctrine negates the possibility of being lost. These people are not motivated because they erroneously believe their “ticket's been punched.” Today, I'm going to speak to you about a doctrine that's in the church denominations called “ultimate reconciliation of all.” Many Unconditional Eternal Security people find this easy to fall into since in effect you cant be lost. Ultimate Reconciliationists believe there will come a time when the wicked, including the devil and his angels, in some cases, will come out of torment and be reconciled to God. This doctrine did not come from Christians but Unitarians and Universalists who brought it from England to the New England colonies in the 18th century. The fruit of this doctrine is the same as that of unconditional eternal security. If no one can ultimately be lost, why fear God or the warnings of Scripture? It destroys motivation to study and obey the Word of God or evangelize the lost and dying. Like the unconditional eternal security people, many of these will take the mark of the beast and are taking the spiritual mark now. What else would the devil have you believe? I have ministered in several churches that believed this. Generally, the people are very prideful and judgmental of those who do not have their “deep revelation”. They are forced to pick and choose verses in order to justify this doctrine, and it makes them disrespect the Word. I have debated many with this doctrine over the years, some on our live internet chat Bible study a few years ago. When they can't back it up with scriptures, they generally resort to insults. We who believe the Word just don't have “the revelation”. Reconciliationists say the Greek words for forever and ever mean “unto the age of the ages”, meaning when used of those in eternal punishment, it is only for a period of time after which everyone comes out of the lake of fire. They lie. “Unto the age of the ages” is only in one place. (Eph.3:21) unto him [be] the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations for ever and ever (unto the age of the ages) Amen. Here it says, “unto all generations unto the age of the ages”, which is only as long as men have children, clearly making it a period of time. In the four Greek manuscripts I have, which range from the oldest to the Received Text, the second-to-last Greek letter of “age” in this verse is an omicron, the 17th letter of the Greek alphabet, which makes this word singular, “Age”. In every other place, the second-to-last letter in the word “ages” is an alpha, the 1st letter of their alphabet, making this word plural, “Ages”. In every other case where “forever and ever” is the translation, “unto the ages of ages” is the literal wording, which has no end. The manuscripts and Bible Numerics prove this to be the case. (Rev.14:11) and the smoke of their torment goeth up for ever and ever (unto the ages of ages); and they have no rest day and night, they that worship the beast and his image, and whoso receiveth the mark of his name. There is no end to the fiery punishment. Many will receive the mark because of this false doctrine. That means that God would die if it were only a period of time. Notice in (Rev.15:7) And one of the four living creatures gave unto the seven angels seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever. So if they are correct, using the same words, when these people come out of hell, God dies. If it were only a period of time in the following verses, the devil, beast, and false prophet would come out of the lake of fire at the end of that time. (Rev.20:10) And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. Even though many Reconciliationists say they do not believe the devil will be saved, according to this doctrine, he has to be. If there is an end to his torment, God will die for the same phrase is used for the longevity of each. They say that “forever,” Greek: “aionios”, meaning “unto the ages”, is for a period of time, but the Kingdom will cease if that is true. We are told forever is without end. (Luk.1:33) and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Vines says this is a Greek Idiom; i.e., an expression whose meaning cannot be derived from the elements of the word. Idioms can always be explained by their usage in the text. If one said, “After he kicked the bucket, I went to the funeral”, you know that “kicked the bucket” means death. It is so with the Greek word for “for ever” or “eternal”. Forever is clearly set apart from a period of time in this verse: (Phm.15) For perhaps he was therefore parted [from thee] for a season, that thou shouldest have him for ever. Clearly “for ever” is far more than a period of time. They also say eternal, which is the same Greek word, “aionios”, meaning “unto the ages”, and has no end. (Joh.10:28) and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. Clearly the elect only are eternal and eternal is clearly set apart from a period of time in this verse: (2 Cor.4:18) while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal (temporary or for a season); but the things which are not seen are eternal. If eternal is only a period of time, then at the end of that period, the wicked come out of hell and God and the righteous die. (Mat.25:46) And these shall go away into eternal punishment: but the righteous into eternal life. If “eternal” is only a period of time, then, according to this doctrine, God, the Holy Spirit, the Kingdom of God, the new body, etc., would come to an end; but God is also immortal, i.e., deathless (1 Timothy 6:16); the Holy Spirit is eternal (Hebrews 9:14); the Kingdom is eternal (2 Peter 1:11); and the new body, which is also immortal, i.e., deathless, is eternal (1 Cor­inthians 15:52,53; 2 Corinthians 5:1). Here is the clincher: Those who do not have eternal life will “not see life”. (Joh.3:36) He that believeth on the Son hath eternal life (Greek: aionios; “unto the ages”); but he that obeyeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him. We can't twist those words. “Not see life” clearly means never. Those who have eternal sin “never” get forgiveness. (Mar.3:29) but whosoever shall blaspheme against the Holy Spirit hath never forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin. Once again, we can't twist those words. Reconciliationists use the following verse to claim that “eternal” has an end. (Rom.16:25) Now to him that is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which hath been kept in silence through times eternal, (26) but now is manifested, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God. There is no end of eternity, just as God here is eternal, but there are points in eternity when things are manifested like the revelation of Christ here. From our point of view, eternity goes into the past and into the future. Something may be eternally future without being eternally past. For instance, we have eternal life because we entered into eternity. The spiritual man in Jesus is eternal for he came out of God. His flesh had a beginning for He was sown of God and born of Mary.  And even before that He was “the beginning of the creation of God” and “the first-born of all creation”. This was a point in eternity. When other terminology is used in the Word as we have seen, the Ultimate Reconciliationists are at a loss. (Isa.66:24) And they shall go forth, and look upon the dead bodies of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh. Clearly the wicked souls do not die for they are in eternal fire. (Job.5:6) How much less man, that is a worm! And the son of man, that is a worm! Which will not come out of fire. (Mar.9:47) ... it is good for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell; (48) where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. Notice that using different words they will always be in fire. (Psa.49:19) He shall go to the generation of his fathers; They shall never see the light. Again using other words they will never see the light of truth. They also say, “everlasting” is a period of time, but as we can see, it has no end! (Jer.20:11) But Jehovah is with me as a mighty one [and] a terrible: therefore my persecutors shall stumble, and they shall not prevail; they shall be utterly put to shame, because they have not dealt wisely, even with an everlasting dishonor which shall never be forgotten. Everlasting here is clearly eternal. When I was younger, “Ultimate Reconciliation” was often called the “Restoration of All Things,” taken from the KJV. (Acts 3:21) whom the heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things (Things is not in the original Greek.), whereof God spake by the mouth of His holy prophets that have been. Restoration here is “apokatastasis,” meaning “back in order”. Only God's people can go back to order because the rest never had order. Notice that when the Lord returns after the Tribulation, the “restoration of all” of His elect is completed. At that time, He is not restoring the wicked but destroying them. (Rev.19:15) And out of his mouth proceedeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness of the wrath of God, the Almighty. Even a thousand years later, when all the wicked are resurrected at the Great White Throne judgment, they are taken from hell and thrown in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:7-15). That makes it clear that “all” is all of the elect, not all people, as even the Jews understood. To the Jews, “all” meant all of the elect. It is the same today. All of the elect, but without racial distinction, classes or conditions of people, rather than just physical Jews. All Israel is all elect Jews and Gentiles who are grafted into the olive tree (Romans 11:19-24,26), not those who are broken off. Compare the “all” in Mark 1:5 and Luke 7:29-30, where “all” is clearly the elect. The “all” whom the Father gives to Jesus are the elect in John 17:6,9 and in John 6:37,45. We see the same thing when we look at John 8:2, Acts 22:15, 2 Corinthians 3:2 and 1 Corinthians 15:22. Compare Romans 12:3 and 2 Thessalonians 3:2. Read 1 Timothy 2:6, Colossians 3:11 and Matthew 20:28. Jesus came to save only all of His own (Isaiah 53:8,11; Luke 1:68,77; Romans 9:21). God is not wishing that any of His people perish (2 Peter 3:9). (Rom.9:11) For [the children] being not yet born, neither having done anything good or bad, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth, (12) it was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. (13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. Reconciliationists say that God unconditionally loves the whole world and could not fail to save it. They like to use this verse as proof. (Joh.3:16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life. Yet, God clearly specifies what part of the world He loves here as “whosoever believeth”. Jesus disagreed with their interpretation of this verse. (Joh.14:21) He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself unto him. (22) Judas (not Iscariot) saith unto him, Lord, what is come to pass that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? (23) Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my word: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. (Joh.15:10) If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. (15:14) Ye are my friends, if ye do the things which I command you. Here's even more proof from the Word: (Rom.9:13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. (Psa.5:5) The arrogant shall not stand in thy sight: Thou hatest all workers of iniquity. (Psa.11:5) Jehovah trieth the righteous; But the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth. (Pro.6:16-19) There are six things which Jehovah hateth; Yea, seven which are an abomination unto him: (17) Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood; (18) A heart that deviseth wicked purposes, Feet that are swift in running to mischief, (19) A false witness that uttereth lies, And he that soweth discord among brethren. (Pro.8:17) I love them that love me; And those that seek me diligently shall find me. (Hos.9:15) All their wickedness is in Gilgal; for there I hated them: because of the wickedness of their doings I will drive them out of my house; I will love them no more; all their princes are revolters. Friends, we cannot make God's love a worldly love. God would not be love if He permitted the wicked into His Kingdom to leaven the whole lump. God does not dwell in time and can, therefore, love by faith the elect whom He foreknew and foreordained. (Rom.9:11) for [the children] being not yet born, neither having done anything good or bad, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth, (12) it was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. (13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. (Psa. 11:5) Jehovah trieth the righteous; But the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth. God's people who live in sin will prove themselves called but not chosen, and He will love them no more. (Hos.9:15) All their wickedness is in Gilgal; for there I hated them: because of the wickedness of their doings I will drive them out of my house; I will love them no more; all their princes are revolters. This is not traditional, but I hope I've made it clear. (1 Cor.15:22) For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. Ultimate reconciliationists use this verse to say that those in Adam, the whole natural man creation, and those in Christ, the whole spiritual man creation, are the same people, so therefore God will save all. However, the next verse narrows those “in Christ” to those who are His at His coming. (23) But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; then they that are Christ's, at his coming. As most know, when Jesus comes, He will eternally destroy the wicked who were obviously not in Him. (2 Thes.1:7) and to you that are afflicted rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of his power in flaming fire, (8) rendering vengeance to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus: (9) who shall suffer punishment, [even] eternal destruction from the face of the Lord....   PREDESTINED AND CHOSEN Let us see who the full measure of those in Christ are, and also if God ever planned to reconcile all of Adam's seed. “Predestine” means “to determine destiny before it happens”. “Foreordain”, which is the same Greek word, means “to ordain an event before it takes place”. (Eph.1:4) even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blemish before him in love: (5) having foreordained us unto adoption as sons through Jesus Christ unto himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. You who are manifesting sonship by bearing fruit have been chosen and are being drawn by God. (Rom.8:29) For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained (predestined) [to be] conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. God foreknew and decreed all who come to the likeness of Jesus, but not the apostate. “Foreknew” here does not mean that He looked into the future and saw what we would be. “Foreknew” here means “to know before” and is not connected with actions or events, but persons. God knew these people before the foundation of the world because He does not dwell in time. God conceives and knows what He creates before He speaks it into existence, just as we conceive and design something first in our mind before we make it. “Knew” speaks of intimate knowledge; for instance, Adam knew Eve. Jesus will say to those who called Him Lord but do not do the will of the Father, (Mat.7:23) “And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you (I.e.,from the foundation of the world): depart from me, ye that work iniquity”. To the foolish virgins who had not the oil of the Spirit, Jesus said, “I know you not”. The ones that God intimately knew He “foreordained” before the creation to be conformed to the image of Jesus. God is creating us through His gift of faith and grace and His Word in us. These are the people on the narrow road. This is grace. (Rom.8:30) and whom he foreordained, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. We see here that all who are foreordained will be called, justified, and glorified. They will not fall away but will bear the fruit of Christ. Are there others who are called but not foreordained? Let us see. (2 Tim.1:9) who saved us, and called us with a holy calling … Notice that only the saved are called. “Called” is from the Greek word “kaleo”, which means “to invite”. “Called” is an invitation given only to God's people (for more proof, read Hebrews 3:1; Hosea 11:1; 1 Timothy 6:11,12; Matthew 25:14; Romans 1:6,7) to partake of His heavenly benefits in Christ in order to bear fruit. Those who bear fruit 30-, 60-, or 100-fold will be proven to be the chosen, or picked. Naturally, if at harvest time you have no fruit, rotten fruit, or unripe fruit, you will not be picked. The called are the vineyard of God (Isaiah 5:7). The chosen are the much smaller percentage who bear fruit (verse 10). (Mat.22:14) For many are called, but few chosen (Greek: eklektos; “elect”). The “called” can fall, but the elect or chosen will not ultimately. (Hos.11:1) When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt. (2) The more [the prophets] called them, the more they went from them .... The Lord saved those who ate the lamb and were baptized in the Red Sea. He then tried them in the wilderness to see who would be a believer in the midst of trials, and only those entered the Promised Land. Jude warned the called of this very thing. (Jud.1) Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are called ... (5) Now I desire to put you in remembrance, though ye know all things once for all, that the Lord, having saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. Notice that the called were saved, but some did not continue in faith to bear fruit and were destroyed. Friends, God is not looking for what we loosely call “Christians”, but believers or disciples, as they were called. Jesus gave us very clear examples of His servants who are called but do not come and partake in order to bear fruit. Jesus shared a parable in which a king made a marriage feast for His son. (Mat.22:3) … and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden (Greek: “called”) to the marriage feast: and they would not come. They were full of excuses (a farm, merchandise, a new wife, etc.). (Mat.22:8) Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they that were bidden were not worthy. Even one who appeared to come did not have on a wedding garment, which implies putting on Christ (Romans 13:14) or putting on righteous acts (Revelation 19:8). (Mat.22:13) Then the king said to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and cast him out into the outer darkness; there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth. (14) For many are called, but few chosen. A few of the called are chosen or elect because they bear fruit. (Mat.25:14) For [it is] as [when] a man, going into another country, called his own servants (Greek: “bondservants”), and delivered unto them his goods. (15) And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one; to each according to his several ability; and he went on his journey. Obviously, the man who went away was the Lord, and His bondservants are His people. Two of these example servants brought forth fruit of the talent given them (Matthew 25:20-22), but one buried his in the earth (used his talent for the earthly, Matthew 25:24,25). When our Lord returns, He will say, “And cast ye out the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth” (Mat.25:30). The apostle Paul, who said of himself that he was called in Galatians 1:6, also said, “But I buffet my body, and bring it into bondage: lest by any means, after that I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected” (That's the Greek word for “reprobated”) (1 Cor.9:27). There is much more proof that the saved and the called can fall. Some good examples are 2 Peter 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 6:11,12; Hebrews 3:1,6,12,14, and Romans 11:1-7,19-23. Friend, you probably know if you are called, but are you chosen? You must be diligent in your walk of faith to prove this with fruit. (2Pe.1:10) Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election (“choosing”) sure: for if ye do these things (the attributes of Christ listed in verses 5-7), ye shall never stumble: (11) for thus shall be richly supplied unto you the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. God, at the cross, has already given us everything that we need to bear fruit through faith. (3) Seeing that his divine power hath granted unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that called us by his own glory and virtue; (4) whereby he hath granted unto us his precious and exceeding great promises; that through these ye may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust. Faith in the promises through the midst of trials will give us the fruit. The called have the power and the opportunity. The called and the chosen, or foreordained, use the power by faith and take the opportunity. The only ones who will ultimately be with the Lord are identified in this verse. (Rev.17:14) These shall war against the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings; and they [also shall overcome] that are with him, called and chosen and faithful. Notice that the called who are chosen will be faithful. I did not make these verses up; they are the Word of God. Those who have eyes and ears will see and understand, but the rest will justify their religion and ignore the Scriptures. Before time and the future, God sovereignly spoke the end from the beginning, bringing these things into existence in time. Some would argue, “How could God make a promise to all of His called and then not keep it for those who do not bear fruit?” The answer is that every promise in the Bible is useless until someone walks by faith in it. Our part of the covenant is faith; God's part is power and salvation. We can break the covenant through unbelief. (Num.14:11) And the Lord said unto Moses, How long will this people despise me? and how long will they not believe in me, for all the signs which I have wrought among them? (12) I will smite them with the pestilence, and disinherit them, and will make of thee a nation greater and mightier than they. Notice that God is saying this to His own people who did not believe that He would disinherit them. Lest any believe that God cannot make a promise and then take it back when they do not walk in faith, pay attention to this: (Num.14:23) surely they shall not see the land which I sware unto their fathers, neither shall any of them that despised me see it. (30) surely ye shall not come into the land, concerning which I sware that I would make you dwell therein, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun. (34) and ye shall know my alienation (Hebrew: “revoking of my promise”). Unless we mix faith with God's promises, they are void. (Heb.4:2) For indeed we have had good tidings preached unto us, even as also they (God's people): but the word of hearing did not profit them, because it was not united by faith with them that heard. Many Israelites walked in sin and were disinherited and blotted out of God's book. (Exo.32:33) And the Lord said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book. The same is true of the Christians who do not overcome sin. Notice what the Lord said to the church. (Rev.3:5) He that overcometh shall thus be arrayed in white garments; and I will in no wise blot his name out of the book of life... They will be rejected from the body of Christ. (Rev.3:16) So because thou art lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spew thee out of my mouth. Many of God's people, Israel, were broken off because of unbelief, and Christians who were grafted in but do not walk by faith will be too. (Rom.11:20) Well; by their unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by thy faith. Be not highminded, but fear: (21) for if God spared not the natural branches, neither will he spare thee. (22) Behold then the goodness and severity of God: toward them that fell, severity; but toward thee, God's goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. Those who are still grafted in at the end are called “all Israel”… (26) and so all Israel shall be saved... Those who are still in the Book of Life, still grafted in, are the elect (Greek: “chosen”). (Rom.11:2) God did not cast off his people, which he foreknew ... (5) Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election (Greek: “chosen”) of grace. A remnant is the ones who are left. Notice that they are foreknown and chosen. Sovereign God will have those who are truly His. Abiding in Christ is where salvation is. Some say God gave us the gift of eternal life so He cannot take it back. In Galatians 3:16, we are told, “To Abraham were the promises spoken, and to his seed. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many, but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ”. So the promises were given to Christ, not to us individually. The only way the promises are ours is if we abide in Christ. Abiding in Christ is bearing fruit (John 15:1-6), walking as he walked (1 John 2:3-6), believing the same teachings given by Jesus and the apostles (1 John 2:24; Jude 3; Matthew 28:20), not adding or subtracting from the Word (Revelation 22:18,19), not walking in sin (1 John 3:5,6), and keeping his commandments (1 John 3:24). In Christ is the only place we can claim the gift of eternal life. (1Jn.5:11) ... God gave unto us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. God does not have to take His gift back; His people walk out of it. (1 Cor.6:18) ... Every sin that a man doeth is without the body ... When you walk in willful sin, you are not abiding in His body, for in him is no sin (1Jn.3:5). (6) Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not … For instance, fornication, whether spiritual or physical, takes away the members of Christ and makes them members of a harlot (1 Corinthians 6:15,18). Only Christ and those abiding in Him are chosen. (Eph. 1:4) Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world... Only Christ and those abiding in Him are going to heaven. (Joh.3:13) And no one hath ascended into heaven, but he that descended out of heaven... Jesus Christ is the Manna from heaven, the Word, Who takes up residence in those who love Him; this is the fruit that God is coming to choose. By this time, I am sure some are thinking that they do not measure up. We must first abide in Christ by faith accepting the gospel report that “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ living in me: and that [life] which I now live in the flesh I live in faith, [the faith] which is in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me” (Gal.2:20). Those who walk by faith that they are dead to sin and Christ now lives in them are accounted as righteous until God uses that faith to manifest righteousness in them. (Gal.3:6) Even as Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned unto him for righteousness. Amen. Next, I'd like to share with you a couple of testimonies from our website of people who received the revelation of the error in their thinking concerning their own salvation.   Coming Judgment on the Lukewarm Sandy - 01/15/2014 I had a dream that thousands of demons entered my bedroom, then jumped on me while I was in bed, devouring my flesh. I was totally paralyzed. I repeatedly shouted out, “You must flee, in the name of Jesus!” These demons continued to attack me. There was total darkness -- no Jesus. It was HORRIFYING. I felt as though I was in the pits of hell, and this is where my soul is going if I don't change my ways. Then I was whisked away, and I was standing in front of a large cross. From the center of the cross, a bright light was shining. I heard the Lord say to me, “Come to the cross. I did not hear or respond to your cries because you are not abiding in Me. Horrific evil is here, and more is coming, and if you do not abide in Me, you will be devoured. I will not hear nor respond to your cries, if you do not abide in me, and you will not be able to fight off this evil in your own strength”.  Then I was whisked back to my bed, where the demons were devouring me again. I was once again paralyzed. I breathed on them, saying, “Jesus”, and they eventually all fled. I woke up with tears streaming down my face, crying out to the Lord. Now, here is what is so IRONIC: I considered myself to be a born-again, saved Christian! Over the past few years, I've started to walk in the ways of the world, thinking it is okay because ‘I know the Lord loves me; I am a good person and I am saved.' How many other Christians are thinking in the same way? How many other Christians are not truly saved? I turned away from Jesus in my walk. It was a slow and subtle turning away, convincing myself all along the way that I can walk my walk, give the Lord ‘courtesy prayer' and everything will be okay. I WAS SO WRONG.  Thank You, LORD, for Your warning, as horrifying as it was. Thank You, LORD, for giving me another chance to make You Lord of my life.   My Salvation and Deliverance from Satanic Music James Austin - 07/08/2008 When I was a child and up to the age of 15, I had gone to some Baptist and Methodist churches off and on. I had even been what I believed at the time to be saved and baptized. I never really placed importance in my salvation as most Christians at the time. I was scared about hell, so I thought if I got saved, then I would go to heaven and still do whatever I wanted. When I was about 16, I cared only about the world and gave God no attention at all. I was associating with people who weren't Christian and listening to music that wasn't Godly. I began to stop believing that there was a God and didn't care if He even existed. A year and a half ago, I was up late one night and I had nothing to do and I started thinking about life and the world and I felt a sudden loneliness and sadness, and I looked up and said, “God, if You are real and Your Word is true, then help me; I want to know the truth.” I don't think it was even two weeks and God led a brother I work with by the name of Nehemiah to me to inquire about carpooling with me. By this time, I had forgotten about what I had asked God. I was still listening to satanic music and living very worldly. The first week he rode with me to work, I didn't play any music because I began to feel ashamed and did not want people to know which music I listened to. At this time, I didn't know Nehemiah was a Christian. A few weeks later, someone else with whom we were carpooling informed me that Nehemiah was a Christian. Then I really felt low and inadequate to be around him. One day, I was looking at some space nebula and stuff, and I saw what looked like Jesus' face in one of these objects in space. Then I started thinking about God even more. I asked Nehemiah one day about it, and we began talking, and he told me some things the Bible spoke of. Then, after about two weeks of talking and debating with him, he led me to your website, and I started reading and listening to some of your stuff and became very fearful of where I was headed. That morning when I got home from work, I cried to God to forgive me and save me. I confessed to so many evil things I had done and wept, and then felt a peace come over me. I have been reading and listening to your programs and teachings ever since, and I feel the Holy Spirit every time I do. God began to work in me, and I bought your “Sovereign God” book and an ASV Bible. Now I have the New Testament on audio, and I only have the desire to listen to music that glorifies God, and I listen and read the Word of God. I have lost the desire to watch all TV programs because I can now see the sinful nature of TV and how TV glorifies sin. I believe God has saved me and He also healed me from plantar fasciitis (a painful tendon injury) by faith alone. Glory to God! God Bless you, brothers and sisters. I don't listen to evil music, and I feel better inside. God has really changed me. Thank you! I had sent an email about my wife a while ago, but I couldn't remember if I had ever given my testimony to you. My wife is still an unbeliever, but I continue to pray for her salvation. I believe that one day God, in some way, will also save her.

1 A false balance is an abomination to Yahweh, but accurate weights are his delight. 2 When pride comes, then comes shame, but with humility comes wisdom. 3 The integrity of the upright shall guide them, but the perverseness of the treacherous shall destroy them. 4 Riches don't profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. 5 The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way, but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness. 6 The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them, but the unfaithful will be trapped by evil desires. 7 When a wicked man dies, hope perishes, and expectation of power comes to nothing. 8 A righteous person is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked takes his place. 9 With his mouth the godless man destroys his neighbor, but the righteous will be delivered through knowledge. 10 When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices. When the wicked perish, there is shouting. 11 By the blessing of the upright, the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. 12 One who despises his neighbor is void of wisdom, but a man of understanding holds his peace. 13 One who brings gossip betrays a confidence, but one who is of a trustworthy spirit is one who keeps a secret. 14 Where there is no wise guidance, the nation falls, but in the multitude of counselors there is victory. 15 He who is collateral for a stranger will suffer for it, but he who refuses pledges of collateral is secure. 16 A gracious woman obtains honor, but violent men obtain riches. 17 The merciful man does good to his own soul, but he who is cruel troubles his own flesh. 18 Wicked people earn deceitful wages, but one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward. 19 He who is truly righteous gets life. He who pursues evil gets death. 20 Those who are perverse in heart are an abomination to Yahweh, but those whose ways are blameless are his delight. 21 Most certainly, the evil man will not be unpunished, but the offspring of the righteous will be delivered. 22 Like a gold ring in a pig's snout, is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion. 23 The desire of the righteous is only good. The expectation of the wicked is wrath. 24 There is one who scatters, and increases yet more. There is one who withholds more than is appropriate, but gains poverty. 25 The liberal soul shall be made fat. He who waters shall be watered also himself. 26 People curse someone who withholds grain, but blessing will be on the head of him who sells it. 27 He who diligently seeks good seeks favor, but he who searches after evil, it shall come to him. 28 He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous shall flourish as the green leaf. 29 He who troubles his own house shall inherit the wind. The foolish shall be servant to the wise of heart. 30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life. He who is wise wins souls. 31 Behold, the righteous shall be repaid in the earth, how much more the wicked and the sinner! Listen Donate Subscribe: Proverbs Daily Podcast Psalms Daily Podcast

Colossians Chapter 1 Study: The Preeminence of Christ and Reconciliation Introduction Encouragement to study Colossians chapter 1, focusing on the preeminence of Christ and the power of God. Acknowledging personal feelings of inadequacy but emphasizing trust in God’s power to feed His sheep. God uses “foolishness of preaching” to save believers. Reference to Colossians 1:18-22 as the text for the message. “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.” “For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell;” “And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.” “And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled” “In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreprovable in his sight” Prayer for God’s help and for the truth to find its place in hearts. The Inward Man vs. The Outward Man Concept of Inner and Outer Self Most people don’t understand the concept of the inward and outward man. There is an unseen man on the inside. God looks at the heart (inward man), not just the outward appearance. Example: Samuel anointing a new king for Israel. Salvation of the Inward Man God saves the inward man, not the outward man (which returns to dust). The inward man must be reconciled to God. The Second Death If one is only born once (physically), there are two deaths in the future. It’s dangerous to be unreconciled to God, even momentarily. If you die without being born again, your soul is unprepared to meet God. Eternity is the most important subject to consider. Need to call on God before it’s too late. God’s Work of Reconciliation and Cleansing Miraculous Work of Salvation Personal testimony of being saved in 1976. Salvation is a miraculous, irreversible work that provides eternal life. Promise of never perishing. Ephesians 1:3-4, 7 Blessed with spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. Chosen in Him before the foundation of the world to be holy and without blame. Redemption through His blood and forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace. Colossians 1:22 Presented holy, unblameable, and unreprovable in His sight through the body of His flesh through death. Reconciliation Through Christ’s Blood God reconciled us through the blood of Jesus Christ. Jesus paid for and cleansed us of all sin (past, present, and future). God paid the penalty for our sin debt before we ever could. Calvary’s cross provided forgiveness for all future sins. Promise of being presented to the Father as holy, unblameable, and unreprovable. Purity of the Bride of Christ The bride of Christ (the church) has been made pure. God chose us before the foundation of the world and made a way for all sins to be paid for on the cross. We are made holy, unblameable, and unreprovable through Jesus’ sacrifice. Ephesians 1:4 Confirmation We should be holy and without blame before Him in love. Eternal Security Once born again, one is forever taken care of and will never be lost again. God’s plan at Calvary satisfied the justice of God for the penalty of man’s sin. God recognizes the work of His Son in us, making us holy, unblameable, and unreprovable. We are the sons of God because of the blood shed for our souls. We go to heaven because of what Jesus did, not what we’ve done. Addressing the Misconception of License to Sin Addressing the Misconception Addressing the idea that being forever clean gives a license to sin. Apostle Paul’s response in Romans: “How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” Born-again individuals cannot live in sin. A new creature inside loves what was once hated and hates what was once loved. If truly born again, something bigger on the inside will chastise and bring one home. Isaiah 1:18 Though sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. Jesus Christ’s sacrifice makes us white and clean in the blood of the Lamb. Everything we’ve ever done falls under the blood of Jesus Christ. Desire to Live Righteously Desire to live the way God wants us to live, not alienated from God or the church. Wanting to live without sin in our hearts. Payment for All Sin At salvation, all sins (past, present, and future) were paid for with Jesus’ blood. God accepted that payment and purged us of sin. Sealed to the Day of Redemption God sealed what He made white, pure, holy, unblameable, and unreprovable with the power of His Holy Spirit. Sins are gone and under the blood of Jesus Christ. Importance of Repentance and Fellowship Fellowship with God depends on willingness to repent daily. Repentance restores fellowship with God. Even if death occurs without a moment to repent, one dies clean, holy, unblameable, and unreprovable because the blood paid for all sin. Everything needed to make us perfect in Christ has been done. Freedom from Fear Freedom from living in fear over salvation. Belief in Jesus’ words: “I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish.” This statement is valid only if all sins were paid for, not just in part. Made holy, unblameable, and unreprovable and sealed to the day of redemption. Holiness and Righteousness Imputed Through Christ Being Holy as God is Holy The only way to be holy is through Christ. Romans 4:22-25 Righteousness was imputed to Abraham because of his faith. This was written for us also, to whom it shall be imputed if we believe on Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead. Jesus was delivered for our offenses and raised again for our justification. Presented as Holy Jesus will present us to God the Father as holy. Holy means righteous, all right, not wrong. Focus on the inward man, not the outward man. Righteousness of Christ Imputed The righteousness of Jesus Christ, not our own, is imputed to us when we turn our hearts over to Christ. It was laid to our account and placed in our hearts, sealed until the day of redemption. Assurance of Salvation Not worrying about sin because, according to the Word of God, sins are gone. Sins are under the blood and gone forever. Living as Holy in Heart Desire to live as holy in the flesh as we are in the heart. God doesn’t halfway forgive sin; He forgives all sin. We are clean and white in the eyes of God. God’s Justice Satisfied The blood of Jesus Christ satisfied God’s justice. We are presented holy, unblameable, and unreprovable in His sight. This is only possible if He deals with our sin, which He did. Eternal Payment for Sin Jesus forever paid our sin debt, and we are saved forevermore. If He didn’t preserve us in that white, holy condition, we wouldn’t have a chance of getting into heaven. Every hope is anchored in the blood of the Lamb. Saved because of what Jesus did, the propitiation for all our sin. Unblameable and Unreprovable: A Miraculous Work Unblameable and Unreprovable Holy, unblameable, and unreprovable are the same concept. A person who cannot be blamed cannot be reproved. Reproving in the flesh helps us walk according to what’s in the heart. Cannot reprove what’s inside the soul; it’s either right with God or not. God had to do something miraculous to make our souls unblameable. Superiority of New Covenant We have something Job didn’t have. Job had great faith, but the blood of Jesus Christ had not yet been shed. Jesus rose from the dead, gathered up that blood, and presented it to God the Father as payment for our sins. Everyone who bows in the name of Jesus Christ can be born again and have their sins washed away. Perfection Through Christ Cannot be saved again because you can’t make perfect water. Cannot go to heaven if you aren’t perfect. Hebrews 9:11-12 Christ came as a high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle. He entered the holy place once with His own blood, having obtained eternal redemption for us. He made us perfect on the inside. John 1:29 John the Baptist saw Jesus coming and said, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” Jesus died for sins we’ve yet to commit. Salvation wouldn’t be worth anything if it only covered past sins. He died for the sin of the whole world. God’s Perspective God will present us to the Father as holy, unblameable, and unreprovable. If God says we are unblameable and unreprovable in His sight, we should rejoice. No boasting or works are involved; we have no means of getting to God except through the finished work of Jesus Christ. Cleansing from All Sin and the New Birth 1 John 1:7 If we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanses us from all sin. Cleansing from all sin is not about turning over a new leaf. Worthlessness of Self-Righteousness Salvation is not about what we do or will do. Kicking habits or stopping addictions doesn’t merit favor with God. Our righteousness is nothing but filthy rags. The flesh will return to dust, but something inside us was forever made holy and unblameable. Necessity of New Birth Either Jesus’ blood was sufficient for all our sins, or we need to live in constant fear. God knew saving the flesh was impossible because its nature is sinful. Jesus told Nicodemus we must be born again. We are new creatures in Christ because we are born again in the Spirit of God. Two Births, One Death Born once, die twice (physical death and lake of fire). Born twice, die once (only physical death). Boasting in the Lamb of God Boasting about the Lamb of God who shed His blood for our souls. Because we’ve been born again, we get to go to heaven, holy, unblameable, and unreprovable. Romans 3:24 Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Justified means there is no condemnation, sin, or culpability. Devil’s Accusations The devil tries to blame, accuse, and reprove us. We end up at the altar where we bow our knee to Him, and the Holy Ghost of God purges us of sin. We have been made clean in the sight of God. We have something to be grateful for; God made a way. We can’t mess this up. Eternal Security and the Gift of Salvation No Need for Retuning No need to get “tuned up” on the inside man again. There is no “black” (sin) inside; it’s all in the nature of the flesh. That which He bought, purged, cleansed, and sealed to the day of redemption must be perfect and holy. Jesus’ promises of eternal life and never perishing would mean nothing if our sins weren’t gone forever. Justification Through Grace Being justified just as if we’d never sinned, freely by His grace through the redemption in Christ Jesus. God set forth Jesus to be a propitiation through faith in His blood. Assurance of Salvation The gift we got will never be in question. Hope that others have experienced the same and will get there. If you die tonight and have been born again, He will present you unto God holy, unblameable, and unreprovable. He did the work once, immediately, for all, and then sealed it. Salvation by Grace, Not Works We get to go to heaven not because of anything we’ve done that was good. No message preached or good deed done will get us into heaven. For the same reason good works won’t get us in, bad works cannot keep us out. Purged and Sealed He purged our sin, looked into the inward man, and identified all the dark past and future sins. The blood has paid for all sin, and it was cleansed and made white that day. He sealed it until the day He redeems us. Day of Redemption The day of redemption is when this old body expires. To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. The Holy Spirit will no longer need to be sealed on us; we will be with Him. Doctrinal Belief This is doctrinal to our faith and what we believe. Sometimes we don’t remind ourselves of what great gift God has given us. Illustration of the Slave Girl and the Auction Block Story of the Slave Girl A young slave girl was being sold on the auction block, stripped from her family. She grew hateful toward all those bidding for her. One man bid a price far above what anyone else could pay and bought her. He tore up her papers and said, “You’re free.” She went after him and said she would serve him for the rest of her life. He bought her so he could set her free. Application to Salvation We serve God because we are debtors to Him. We will never be able to repay Him for what He did for us that day as a child. After millions of years, we will still be thanking Him for saving our souls. God’s Perspective When we see our regret, God sees the cross. When we see our sin debt, God sees the price paid in full by His only begotten Son. When we see our multitude of sins, God sees the blood of the spotless Lamb. When we say, “O wretched man that I am,” God says we are righteous because of Jesus Christ and what has been imputed into our hearts. Living a Life Worthy of Salvation Sons of God Whether we act like it or not, if we’ve been born again, the blood of Jesus Christ has made us sons of God. We ought to act like it and live every day of our lives 100% sold out and surrendered to the will of Jesus Christ. He’s worthy of no less than that. Assurance of Salvation If you’ve been born again, you’re going to heaven. He’s going to present you unto the Father, holy, unblameable, and unreprovable. You don’t deserve to go, but He made you worthy. That’s worth living for; whatever He says to do, we ought to do it. There aren’t enough devils in hell to keep us out of it if we’ve been born again. Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. The only thing you can do with a gift is receive it. Invitation to Receive the Gift God made a way for you to be saved tonight. Religion won’t get you there; you must know Jesus Christ as your Savior. If you know Him in the free pardon of sin, who has done a work in you and made you holy, unblameable, and imputed the righteousness of the perfect one, then you can raise your hand and say thank you. Come forward if you don’t know Him tonight and receive this gift. Gratitude for Salvation Thank God for the blood of Jesus Christ. We have a lot to be grateful for. We can fall on our knees every day and shout hallelujah; He’s made us clean through the blood of the Lamb.

Gather round ye listeners come…Andrew Peterson is back. Watch the full conversation on YouTube. Songwriter/author Andrew Peterson has been singing about the birth of Jesus every Christmas for over 26 years in the form of a Christmas concept album and tour called Behold the Lamb of God (LINK: catch the tour or livestream—available to watch until 1/31). In this special episode, Russell joins Andrew in the Chapter House–Andrew's writing cabin–to talk about a tour that's spent twenty-six years creating a Christmas tradition for thousands across the world. Together, they swap stories about the origins of the album, the strange power of minor-key Advent songs, and the backstage chaos you never see—covert clementines, nightly TED talks, and the annual fear of forgetting a song that might contain more names than any other song ever written. They also talk honestly about exhaustion, longing, and why the story of the incarnation keeps surprising them after all these years. Plus: Wingfeather cosplay, Randy Travis covering “Labor of Love,” British carol-singing that'll blow your hair back, and why both of them have very strong opinions about the First Noel. If you've ever wondered what makes this Christmas tour feel more like liturgy than concert—or why the gospel still sneaks up on people who think they've heard it all—this conversation is a warm, funny, deeply human place to land. Resources mentioned in this episode: Get 10% off the Behold the Lamb of God Livestream on December 12th from the Ryman Auditorium (watchable until January 31) with code RUSSELL10. Get tickets for the tour and livestream here. Andrew Peterson's The Wingfeather Saga Randy Travis' version of Labor of Love Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. (Luke 1:38)

Siblings Ashley Engle and Brandon Birdwell discuss life, the "good old days" when basketball shorts were short and you could smoke on airplanes, Triscuits, Crystal Pepsi and Brandon's childhood imaginary friend.

December 10th, 2025:  Advent, Marriage, & Adultery; Our Lady of Loreto & Pope St Melchiades; Advent - A Word on Patience; Look, Behold, See! Blessed Are Your Eyes

SCRIPTURE: Luke 1:26-38 SHOW NOTES: For encouragement on your spiritual journey, we invite you to visit our ministry website, Discover God's Truth, where you can access additional resources to enrich your Walk with God. Praise and Adoration. People and Angels.Angels are a key part of the Christmas story, appearing as messengers of God. When Zechariah was ministering in the Holy Place, the angel Gabriel appeared to announce the birth of a son to Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth (Luke 1:18-19). Once again, the angel Gabriel appears to deliver God's message in the town of Nazareth to a young virgin named Mary. "In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary." Luke 1:26-27 Gabriel greeted Mary with an unusual greeting. You are the favored one. The Lord is with you. Luke tells his readers that Mary was deeply troubled."And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.” Luke 1:30 Mary was chosen to be the mother of the promised Son. The angel told her that His name would be Jesus. He will be great, Jesus, the Son of the Most High. Mary's response to the God's messenger is an example for all of us today. "And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her." Luke 1:38 SONG: "Come Thou Long Expected Jesus" - https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=ez6QPDpgzXI

Today, we welcome Israel to our listening audience. Thank you for giving the Free Range Preacher on Prayer podcast!We are looking this October at just who is our King of Glory?Today we see Him again high and lifted up, and in His presence we are humbled. Job began his season of trial with unfeigned worship of the God of the universe. “Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head, and he fell to the ground and worshiped. 21 And he said, “Naked I came from my mother's womb, And naked I shall return there. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD.” 22 Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God.” Job 1:20-22“But he said to her, “You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we indeed accept good from God and not accept adversity?” In all this Job did not sin with his lips.”Job 2:10At the end of his long, weary defense of himself, Job moves to his desire to demand an explanation. Job 31:35-36“Oh that I had one to hear me! Behold, here is my signature; Let the Almighty answer me! And the indictment which my adversary has written, 36 Surely I would carry it on my shoulder; I would bind it to myself like a crown. 37 “I would declare to Him the number of my steps; Like a prince I would approach Him.”From humility to a wronged prince. Then God answers. God never tells Job why, but, as we will see, He confronts Job with God as Creator and Sustainer, and He displays Job's weakness before His other creations.Job will be humbled and reminded:“Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God. For God is in heaven and you are on the earth; therefore let your words be few.” Ecclesiastes 5:2Our So What?We come into God's presence in lowliness. “Turn to Me, and be saved, all the ends of the earth; For I am God, and there is no other. 23 “I have sworn by Myself, The word has gone forth from My mouth in righteousness And will not turn back, That to Me every knee will bow, every tongue will swear allegiance.” Isaiah 45:22-23“that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, of those who are in heaven, and on earth, and under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:10Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen1 Timothy 1:17Brethren, let's pray for one another. "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Alternatively, visit www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 007Episode 164

2 Now when John had heard in prison the works of Christ: sending two of his disciples he said to him:Joannes autem cum audisset in vinculis opera Christi, mittens duos de discipulis suis, 3 Art thou he that art to come, or look we for another?ait illi : Tu es, qui venturus es, an alium exspectamus? 4 And Jesus making answer said to them: Go and relate to John what you have heard and seen.Et respondens Jesus ait illis : Euntes renuntiate Joanni quae audistis, et vidistis. 5 The blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead rise again, the poor have the gospel preached to them.Caeci vident, claudi ambulant, leprosi mundantur, surdi audiunt, mortui resurgunt, pauperes evangelizantur : 6 And blessed is he that shall not be scandalized in me.et beatus est, qui non fuerit scandalizatus in me. 7 And when they went their way, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John: What went you out into the desert to see? a reed shaken with the wind?Illis autem abeuntibus, coepit Jesus dicere ad turbas de Joanne : Quid existis in desertum videre? arundinem vento agitatem? 8 But what went you out to see? a man clothed in soft garments? Behold they that are clothed in soft garments, are in the houses of kings.Sed quid existis videre? hominem mollibus vestitum? Ecce qui mollibus vestiuntur, in domibus regum sunt. 9 But what went you out to see? a prophet? yea I tell you, and more than a prophet.Sed quid existis videre? prophetam? Etiam dico vobis, et plus quam prophetam. 10 For this is he of whom it is written: Behold I send my angel before thy face, who shall prepare thy way before thee.Hic est enim de quo scriptum est : Ecce ego mitto angelum meum ante faciem tuam, qui praeparabit viam tuam ante te

What do you do when God tells you something you don't want to hear? Most of us want a Jesus who fixes our problems, not one who confronts our sin. But what if real peace, purpose, and power are only found when we stop editing the Bible and start trusting it? In this message, we look at Joseph, the man God trusted to raise His Son. Joseph obeyed God's Word even when it cost him his comfort, his reputation, and his future. This talk challenges all of us to stop living over God's Word and start living under it. Because obedience, even when it's hard, always leads to freedom. When you submit to God's Word, you don't just find rules. You find peace, strength, identity, and promises that hold up even when everything else falls apart. You may not understand it. You may not agree with it. But you can trust the God who gave it. Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@Flatirons Topics Covered:Trusting God when life doesn't make senseStanding under the authority of ScriptureObedience over understandingSacrificial love and quiet faithHow culture and science are catching up to God's truthLiving a life shaped by the Bible, not personal preference

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 2025 Gospel Luke 1:26-38 The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin's name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, "Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you." But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his Kingdom there will be no end." But Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?" And the angel said to her in reply, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God." Mary said, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her.  

Behold, God is mighty and does not despise any. He is mighty in strength and wisdom. That's Job thirty-six, five, and this is Something Good with Dr. Ron Jones. Every protagonist in literature, every superhero in comic books and movies, has at least one weakness.  Superman is made weak by kryptonite. Batman is limited by his own human nature. But Jesus has no tragic flaws. He has no flaws, period. He is mighty in works, mighty in wisdom, mighty, even in His mercy and compassion. He is truly the only Superhero who has ever lived. Coming your way next, Ron takes an in-depth look at this aspect of our Lord's character, as he moves ahead in his teaching series, “Knowing God by His Christmas Names.”  

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What do we mean when we say Jesus “takes away the sins of the world”? Joe Rockey and Father Boniface Hicks unpack how sin ruptures relationship—with God, others, creation, and even our own hearts—and how Christ repairs that rupture. We explore justice, mercy, and why divine love doesn't erase consequences but enters them, heals us, and restores right worship and communion. We also contrast Adam's fall with Christ's redeeming love and consider our part: God saves us with our cooperation. Through it all we keep the three lenses clear—honesty with self, charity toward others, under a living relationship with God.Key IdeasSin's effects: rupture with God, one another, creation, and self; shame, blame, mistrust, and debt remain until healed.How Christ “takes away” sin: self-sacrificing love enters our wounds, satisfies justice, restores communion, and divinizes us by union with Him.Mercy doesn't cancel consequences: relationships still need repair, trust-building, and inner healing—grace empowers the work.Not a spectator sport: “created without us; redeemed with us”—our free cooperation (repentance, worship, acts of love) matters.From Fall to fullness: covenant history rises and falls until Christ; in Him, grace sustains steady growth toward holiness.Links & ReferencesScripture named (no links):The Fall and its ruptures (Genesis 3).“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29).Healings linked to faith (e.g., Mark 5:34; Luke 7:50; Luke 8:48).Liturgy referenced (no link): Agnus Dei (“Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world…”).CTAIf this helped, please leave a review or share this episode with a friend.Questions or thoughts? Email FatherAndJoe@gmail.comTagsFather and Joe, Joe Rockey, Father Boniface Hicks, sin, redemption, salvation, justice and mercy, healing, holiness, rupture and repair, Genesis 3, John 1:29, Agnus Dei, sacrificial love, Eucharist, reconciliation, cooperation with grace, trust, covenant, Adam and Eve, divinization, sanctification, interior healing, relationships, responsibility, spiritual growth, relationship with God, relationship with self, relationship with others, Benedictine spirituality, Catholic podcast, practical spirituality

Today’s Topics: Father Raymond of the Blessed Sacrament joins Terry 1, 2, 3, 4) Gospel – Luke 1:26-38 – The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a Son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give Him the throne of David his father, and He will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of His Kingdom there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the Child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. Memorial of Saint Saint , pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day

Luke 1:26–38 - [26] In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, [27] to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. [28] And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” [29] But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. [30] And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. [31] And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. [32] He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, [33] and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” [34] And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” [35] And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. [36] And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. [37] For nothing will be impossible with God.” [38] And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. (ESV)   THE EVENING MINDSET IS COMING! Beginning January 1 - 2026 - A new DAILY podcast will be available to help you wind down, reset your mind on God’s truth, and prepare for a night of rest and rejuvenation. “The Daily Mindset” will launch on the podcast player of your choice on January 1, 2026. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode: https://EveningMindset.com