Podcasts about believers

A group of twenty-two Christian leaders traveled half a day to secretly meet and learn from a pastor who came from another country. If caught, the pastor would be deported, and the others would spend three years in prison. Eighteen of the twenty-two had already been imprisoned for their faith in Jesus. After the pastor handed out fifteen Bibles he’d brought with him, one woman gave hers to someone else. Like many others, she’d memorized chapters of Scripture so she would have its wisdom secured in her heart if she were to go to prison. She later asked the pastor to pray that their church would be free to gather just like his. Instead, marveling at how they sacrificed, suffered persecution, and risked imprisonment, he prayed that his church would be just like theirs. Believers around the world are persecuted for their faith in Christ, some more severely than others. And all believers can be tempted to cower when the stakes of living for Christ are raised. But the Holy Spirit enables us to use our God-given gifts with “power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7). God will help us share the gospel with boldness and compassion, wherever He leads. Because of all He did for us (vv. 9-10), we can embrace the sacrificial cost of commitment to Christ and preserve “sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus” (v. 13).

Washington Wednesday on a turn in the administration's foreign policy, World Tour on Anglicans reorganizing leadership, and a church fully including believers with disabilities. Plus, Bethel McGrew on a delayed Medal of Honor, haute cuisine artwork, and the Wednesday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from Pensacola Christian College. Academic excellence, biblical worldview, affordable cost. go.pcci.edu/worldFrom Ambassadors Impact Network, which publishes a Spiritual Impact Report documenting how portfolio companies integrate faith into their operations, from chaplaincy programs to gospel proclamation. The report offers a window into what intentional Kingdom impact looks like in practice. Download it free at ambassadorsimpact.com/reports, and learn more about the network at ambassadorsimpact.comAnd from Dordt Discovery Days—an academic summer camp for 6th through 8th graders to grow in their faith and build friendships. dordt.edu/discovery

Believers have been made right with God, regardless of their actions. As Christians, we're righteous because God says so and we believe it; this is our stance, which is permanent. By contrast, our state is continually changing as we progress through our earthly lives, making mistakes but gradually becoming more and more like Christ. The world offers us plenty of choices of foundations to build our lives on; any foundation other than Jesus Christ will crumble and fall when trouble hits. Basing our identity on Him makes us ready for heaven. To support the ministry financially, text "CDMPodcast" to 74483 or visit www.worldchangers.org

Welcome to the Grace in Focus podcast. Today, Bob Wilkin and Ken Yates are answering a question from 1 Peter 2:1. It states, “There will be false teachers among you.” […] The post Does 2 Peter 2:1 Say There Will Be False Teachers Among Believers? appeared first on Grace Evangelical Society.

In this episode, Bobby Bosler reflects on Psalm 46:1 and the powerful truth that God is “a very present help in trouble.” Drawing from personal Bible study and a simple illustration from everyday life, he explains how easy it is to think of God as distant when we face pressure, weakness, or distress. Yet Scripture reveals that God is not merely nearby—He is right within reach, ready to be our refuge, our strength, and the help we need in every situation. Topics Discussed Psalm 46:1 and the three descriptions of God: refuge, strength, and help What it means for God to be a refuge or safe place The different dimensions of strength God provides: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual The meaning of “help in trouble” and the kinds of distress people experience The significance of the phrase “very present help” in the Hebrew text How believers can mistakenly view God as distant in times of difficulty A practical illustration showing the difference between something being nearby and being within reach Learning to depend on God right where you are Key Takeaways God is a safe place where believers can find security and protection. The Lord provides strength for every area of life, including mental and emotional strain. In every distress or difficulty, the ultimate need is not a new solution but God Himself. Psalm 46 teaches that God is not merely close to us—He is very present, accessible, and ready to help. Believers can depend on God immediately, because He is always right within reach. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Our shout-out today goes to George Zeck from Venice, FL. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. We cannot do this without donors like you. Our text today is 1 Corinthians 8:1-3. Now concerning food offered to idols: we know that "all of us possess knowledge." This "knowledge" puffs up, but love builds up. If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. But if anyone loves God, he is known by God. — 1 Corinthians 8:1-3 You can be theologically correct—and spiritually careless. Paul opens this section with a warning that cuts against a familiar instinct in believers: the belief that being right automatically makes us faithful. The real danger in a secular culture is not ignorance, but arrogance—truth held without consideration for others. The Corinthians understood that wooden and stone idols were nothing. They knew meat was just meat. Paul doesn't dispute that. He affirms it. But he exposes the problem. Knowledge alone inflates. It creates distance. It feeds superiority. It subtly shifts the question from "What honors God?" to "What am I allowed to do?" Do you see the shift? It is a shift from "He" to "me". But thoughtful "love" for God and others, combined with good theology, does stretch the believer to do some things they would not usually do. Stay humble in moments where pride could be misunderstood. Restrain actions where freedom is allowed. Consider how our accurate theological freedom might adversely affect others. That's why this section of chapter 8 still presses on us today. We may not debate food sacrificed to idols, but many believers still rationalize the so-called "gray areas" of life—places where Scripture allows freedom, yet pride tempts us to lean toward self rather than love. The Corinthians weren't arguing whether idols were real; they were arguing whether their knowledge gave them permission to participate, signal approval, or remain indifferent anyway. In the same way today, the issue is often not personal involvement but endorsement, celebration, or normalization. What God calls sin is reframed as virtue. Sexual immorality is affirmed as love. Abortion is defended as compassion. Same-sex marriage is praised as progress. Drunkenness, pornography, marijuana use, and indulgence are excused as harmless freedoms. Believers may not practice these things themselves, but participation, silence, or celebration can quietly communicate approval. And the defense often sounds spiritual: "I know better." "I'm free in Christ." "This doesn't affect my faith." "I'm not hurting anyone." Paul dismantles that logic. Being right is not the same as being faithful. If knowledge does not lead to love, it has already begun to lead us wrong. Truth without humility hardens hearts. Freedom without love compromises witness. Paul ends with a quiet but profound shift. Maturity is not defined by how much you know about God, but by whether you are known by God. Faithfulness in a pagan world is not measured by how much freedom you can defend, but by how carefully you steward it for the good of others and the glory of God. DO THIS: Before exercising a freedom you believe you have, pause and ask whether it builds others up or subtly elevates yourself. ASK THIS: Where am I more focused on being right than being loving? How might my freedoms affect the conscience or faith of others? Am I using knowledge to serve—or to justify myself? PRAY THIS: Father, guard my heart from pride disguised as conviction. Teach me to hold truth with humility and freedom with love. Shape my life so that it reflects Your heart, not just correct beliefs. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Make Room"

Pastor opens with a prayer for God to build unity among believers especially in the areas where we have differing opinions, that we would show grace to one another and humility before God. Pastor begins with the "rapture" passage in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, "After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and so we will be with the Lord forever." "Will be caught up." This caught up is the rapture. "Will be caught up" is one word in Greek: harpazō (Latin was used to translate the Greek work and in Latin the word is rapiemur from which we get "rapture") Let's check out 1 Thessalonians 4:13-16 where Paul answers the question about Christian believers who have died, "Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him. According to the Lord's word we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God and the dead in Christ will rise first."   These are encouraging words for believers, giving them the assurance of Jesus' Second Coming and the assurance of the resurrection of the dead, the gathering of the living and all going with Jesus in the air and of being with Him forever. If we take Paul's powerful words of summary of the Second Coming in these verses - it seems to be saying that the rapture occurs when Jesus returns, when the dead are raised and when we are all caught up in the air with Him. Paul goes on to say in verse 18: "Therefore encourage one another with these words." In 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3 we read that Christ comes at a time no one knows, and He comes not only to bring His people to Himself, but to bring judgement. Verses 4-6 goes on to tell us that we belong to the Light and not to the darkness and Paul calls us to understanding that Jesus can come anytime and that we should be ready and looking forward to His return.  Common questions:         What is all this talk about the Rapture - its referring to believers who have died in Christ and those who are alive when He returns and the risen dead and the alive will be united with Christ         Will there be a rapture - Yes!!!         Where is the rapture found in the Bible - In 1 Thessalonians 4         When will the rapture take place - at the Second Coming of Christ         Will Christians go through the Tribulation - The word for tribulation is the Greek word thlipsis. It is used 45 time in the New Testament. (Suffering, persecution, tribulation) Pastor takes us on an exploration of the ways thlipsis is used in the New Testament by looking at:         John 16:33         Matthew 24:21-22         Romans 5:3         1 Thessalonians 3:7         2 Thessalonians 1:4         Revelation 7:14 We see in these verses that tribulation is a reality, we read of the tribulation of others, of Jesus saying that in this world we will have tribulation, that there will be tribulation, and we read about glorying in our tribulations.  Pastor shares the tribulation of the apostles, disciples, and early believers, and that throughout the centuries there has been tribulation of Christian people and in our day the tribulation that is attacking many believers around the world (kidnapped, raped, captured, hunted down, killed, ridiculed, put down, in fear of losing jobs, etc). Tribulation is real, it's a reality. the Bible doesn't say we will escape it, instead it says we will be persecuted. Our hope is not based on being taken out of tribulation, our hope is on the second coming of Christ. And the assurance that we will be raised on the last day and will live with Him forever. Believers have differing opinions - Pastor encourages us with what the Bible says:         to maintain the peace of the Holy Spirit.          To search the scripture         to not get caught up in details that cause controversy          to focus on the mission of bringing others to Christ Jesus is the only message of reconciliation and eternal life. That is our focus, labor, prayer and service. Bottom line …. The entire New Testament points to the Second Coming of Christ and urges us to live in such a way as to be always ready for His return. Pastor's closing prayer speaks of thanks to God for the Scriptures, while in them we don't find everything we want to know, the Scriptures do provide ALL that we need to know. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/whats-the-answer Join us Sundays  https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service

Jesus went to Jerusalem privately because his hour had not yet come. However, Jesus eventually died and rose again publicly. As followers of Jesus we are called to publicly and openly declare our faith in him. Believers are called to do this through baptism. Scripture References: John 7: 1-13, Mark 6: 3 Pastor: Daniel Hendrickson

In this powerful teaching, Prophet Robin-Huws Barnes explores the biblical revelation of God's names and how they progressively reveal His nature and character. From Elohim in creation to Yahweh, El Shaddai, El Elyon, and others, Scripture shows that every encounter with God unveils a different dimension of who He is. However, the ultimate revelation comes through Jesus Christ, who reveals God not merely as a distant divine being, but as “Abba Father.” Understanding these names helps believers grasp the mind of Christ concerning God and deepens our relationship with Him. Each name reveals a dimension of God's character—His power, provision, healing, faithfulness, and closeness to His people. Ultimately, Jesus brings the greatest revelation: God is our Father, inviting us into intimacy, identity, and inheritance as His children.   Key Teaching Points 1. Jesus Came to Reveal the Father The foundation of Jesus' life, ministry, and identity was His relationship with the Father. To understand the mind of Christ, believers must understand how Jesus relates to God as Father. Christ reveals the true nature of God beyond religious concepts. 2. God Revealed Himself Progressively Through His Names In the Old Testament, God revealed aspects of His nature through different names. Elohim – The Supreme Creator Refers to God as the mighty divine being and creator. Though the term could refer to divine beings, God is the Elohim above all Elohim. Scripture: Genesis 1:1 Yahweh – The Self-Existent One Revealed to Moses at the burning bush. Means “I Am Who I Am.” Shows that God is: Self-existent Eternal Covenantally faithful Personally involved with His people. Scripture: Exodus 3:14-15 El Elyon – God Most High Revealed after Abraham's victory over multiple kings. Shows God as the supreme authority who grants victory. Scripture: Genesis 14:18-20 El Shaddai – God Almighty Revealed when God made covenant with Abraham. Emphasizes God's power to fulfil His promises and sustain His covenant. Scripture: Genesis 17:1-4 El Olam – The Everlasting God Declares God's eternal and unchanging nature. Scripture: Genesis 21:33 El Roi – The God Who Sees Revealed to Hagar in the wilderness. Shows that God sees the suffering and needs of His people. Scripture: Genesis 16:13 Yahweh Jireh – The Lord Will Provide Revealed when God provided a ram for Abraham instead of Isaac. God provides because He sees the need. Scripture: Genesis 22:13-14 Yahweh Rapha – The Lord Who Heals Revealed to Israel after leaving Egypt. Healing was connected to covenant obedience and divine health. Scripture: Exodus 15:26 Yahweh Nissi – The Lord My Banner Revealed during Israel's battle with Amalek. God is the banner of victory over His people. Scripture: Exodus 17:15 Core Revelation: God as Abba Father While the Old Testament revealed many dimensions of God, Jesus revealed the greatest truth — God is Father. “Abba” expresses: Intimacy Relationship Trust Identity as children of God Through Christ, believers move from simply knowing God by titles to experiencing Him as a loving Father.

Trees beautify Creation and give glory to the Creator as doing all things well. Believers are called trees of righteousness; even though we lost our perfection when Adam sinned, we have been made a new creation and brought back into the covenant family of God. This passage also includes the purpose statement of Christ's work of redemption. He is the Anointed One who came to proclaim the good news of salvation by grace. He suffered the wrath and curse of God that we deserved, by dying on a tree as a beautiful Sacrifice.

Revelation 12:1-13:18 The post #6 The Persecution of Believers appeared first on Trinity Church Woodcroft.

You started with resolve. You made promises to Allah. And then… you fell again. The same mistake. The same regret. The same heavy whisper: "If you were sincere, this wouldn't keep happening." In Ramadan, this feeling crushes many hearts - not because they love sin, but because they feel defeated by it. This episode speaks to the exhausted heart that tries, repents, weakens, and fears it may no longer be worthy of Allah's mercy. Ustadh uncovers how sincerity can be twisted into hopelessness, and why falling short may not mean what you think it means. Ramadan isn't about flawlessness. It's about what you do after you fall. Sign up now to AMAU Academy: https://www.amauacademy.com/ AMAU Academy: https://www.amauacademy.com/ AMAU Junior: https://amaujunior.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amauofficial/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/AMAU Telegram: https://t.me/amauofficial YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AMAUofficial Twitter: https://twitter.com/AMAUofficial iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/al-madrasatu-al-umariyyah/id1524526782 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/08NJC1pIA0maaF6aKqZL4N Get in Touch: https://amau.org/getintouch BarakAllahu feekum. #AMAU #Islam #Dawah

Be sure to visit cultureproof.net Please consider supporting the Culture Proof Podcast. We aim to bring engaging content that will challenge and equip Christians to live according to the Straight Edge of Scripture. All gifts are tax deductible. Our Address is: S.E. Ministries PO Box 1269 Saltillo MS, 38866   Episode sponsors: BJUPress Homeschool We Heart Nutrition – Use the code CULTUREPROOF for 20% off Culture Proof Listeners  THANKS!   Culture Proof Podcast Theme song "Believers" courtesy of Path of Revelation    

In verses 9-11 of chapter 5, Paul reminds us of our destiny – salvation provided by Jesus Christ. Believers should have no fear of Christ's return, but we should seek to encourage one another and to reach the lost. 

Listen to Justin Carpenter as he teaches on embracing the maturation process. Believers staying stuck in a cycle of immaturity and not embracing the saintification process is a large issue in the body of Christ todayBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cross-kingdom-sermon-of-the-week--2084451/support.

The Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 03-05-2026) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CARM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include: Are The Gifts of The Spirit and The Charismatic Gifts The Same Thing?/ What Happens When Government Leaders Mix Theology and Current World Events/ God's Sovereignty, Judgement and Imprecatory Psalms/Predestination, What is it?/How Does it Pertain to Believers?/ Why Do Not We Call Jesus YAHWEH?/ Another Conversation with A Black Hebrew Israelite (BHI)/ March 5, 2026

In our series on authority, we have touched on the idea that we are not currently being encouraged to use your God given authority. The same old excuses are presented every time someone dares to try. Are you a pastor, a teacher, some form of church leadership? They look for titles to enforce the why you can or the why you cannot. Jesus dealt with the same thing. What if I told you that walking in authority is simply what all believers should be doing? Lets talk about it. 

Be sure to visit cultureproof.net Please consider supporting the Culture Proof Podcast. We aim to bring engaging content that will challenge and equip Christians to live according to the Straight Edge of Scripture. All gifts are tax deductible. Our Address is: S.E. Ministries PO Box 1269 Saltillo MS, 38866   Episode sponsors: BJUPress Homeschool We Heart Nutrition – Use the code CULTUREPROOF for 20% off Culture Proof Listeners  THANKS!   Culture Proof Podcast Theme song "Believers" courtesy of Path of Revelation    

What does it look like to live as a citizen of heaven while serving on assignment in a world that resists God's Truth? In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef explains why speaking Truth is part of the Christian's calling—especially when leaders or systems pressure people to violate God's Word. Yet this boldness is never rooted in self-righteousness. Believers stand with humility, praying for leaders and lovingly pointing others to Christ—the only One who can truly set anyone free. To illustrate what faithful living looks like in the “City of Man,” Dr. Youssef takes us to Daniel 1:1–16, where Daniel and his friends—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—model courageous obedience in a hostile environment. Sometimes their tests seemed small (even what was placed in front of them at the king's table). Other times, obedience carried deadly cost—lions' dens and fiery furnaces. Yet their stance remained the same: no compromise, full trust in God's outcome. This devotional will challenge you to: stand firm when pressured to conform, speak Truth with grace and conviction, trust God with the results of obedience, and lift high the cross of Christ as His ambassador—no matter the cost. Scripture Focus: Daniel 1:1–16 Go deeper: Dr. Youssef's sermon series Unholy Alliance of the Antichrist (Watch Now | Listen Now) The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

Wednesday March 4, 2026II Week of LentToday's readings move us inward—into conscience, community, and the condition of the heart.In Genesis 42:18–28, Joseph's brothers begin to feel the weight of their past. “In truth we are guilty concerning our brother,” they confess. What they once buried now surfaces. Fear grips them as silver is returned to their sacks, and they ask, “What is this that God has done to us?” Conviction is no longer abstract—it is personal. God is stirring their hearts toward repentance.In 1 Corinthians 5:9–6:11, Paul calls the church to clear moral distinction. Believers are not to mirror the broken patterns around them. “Such were some of you,” he reminds them—but they have been washed, sanctified, justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The gospel does not merely forgive; it transforms identity and behavior.And in Mark 4:1–10, Jesus tells the parable of the sower. The same seed falls on different soils, but the harvest depends on the condition of the ground. The issue is not the power of the Word—it is the posture of the heart. Only receptive soil bears lasting fruit.This episode invites us to allow conviction to soften us, to live as people truly washed and made new, and to cultivate hearts ready to receive and respond to the Word of God.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Our shout-out today goes to Elijah Kovar from Independence, MN. Thanks for your partnership in Project23. We cannot do this without donors like you. Our text today is 1 Corinthians 7:25-31. Now concerning the betrothed, I have no command from the Lord, but I give my judgment as one who by the Lord's mercy is trustworthy. I think that in view of the present distress it is good for a person to remain as he is. Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be free. Are you free from a wife? Do not seek a wife. But if you do marry, you have not sinned, and if a betrothed woman marries, she has not sinned. Yet those who marry will have worldly troubles, and I would spare you that. This is what I mean, brothers: the appointed time has grown very short. From now on, let those who have wives live as though they had none, and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no goods, and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away. — 1 Corinthians 7:25-31 Paul does not tell believers to abandon life or withdraw from the world. Instead, he urges them not to build their lives as if this world were permanent. This scripture is not meant to create panic or anxiety, but to cultivate preparedness—a steady, eternal perspective that reshapes how we hold everything we have. As Paul considers a list of items—marriage, grief, joy, possessions, and daily responsibilities—he offers a word that still unsettles us because it runs against our instincts. He calls believers to hold everything with open hands. The reason is simple and sobering: "Your time is very short." Paul is not predicting a date or stirring fear; he is shaping a posture. Time is limited, eternity is near, and that reality should change how tightly we cling to the things of this world. Marriage is good, but it is not ultimate. Grief is real, but it is not final. Joy is sweet, but it does not last forever. Possessions are useful, but they are not secure. None of these things are wrong; they are temporary and changing. Paul's call, then, is not withdrawal from life but readiness within it. Believers are invited to stay engaged without becoming entangled, to care deeply without clutching desperately, and to enjoy God's gifts without confusing them with God himself. This is what it means to live ready: to obey when God redirects, to suffer without losing hope, to rejoice without forgetting eternity, and to let go when the world begins to fade. Then Paul closes with authority: "For the present form of this world is passing away." Everything we see is temporary. Everything we hold will one day be released. Only what is rooted in Christ will remain. So do not anchor your identity in what is fading. Anchor it in the kingdom that cannot be shaken, and live today with eternity clearly in view. DO THIS: Identify one thing you're holding too tightly—status, comfort, possessions, plans—and intentionally loosen your grip by surrendering it to God today. ASK THIS: Where am I living as if this world is permanent? What earthly attachment most distracts me from eternal priorities? How would my daily choices change if I truly believed time is short? PRAY THIS: Father, help me live ready. Teach me to enjoy Your gifts without worshiping them, to grieve without despair, and to rejoice without forgetting eternity. Fix my heart on what lasts. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Build My Life"  

The Bible Is God's Living Voice to Believers. The Bible is alive and active.

Believers are not immune to worries of this day. Join Brandon as he teaches about offering our anxieties to the Lord. Devotionables #913 - Don't Worry, Trust God, and Seek His Kingdom Matthew 6:25-34 G365 Devotionables is a ministry of The Ninth & O Baptist Church in Louisville, KY.  naobc.org

As a believer in Christ you are like a 'spiritual umpire!' Called to speak His Word and enforce it! Your role in the kingdom of God is vital! Discover how to stand firm against the powers of darkness and live a life that fully pleases God.

As a believer in Christ you are like a 'spiritual umpire!' Called to speak His Word and enforce it! Your role in the kingdom of God is vital! Discover how to stand firm against the powers of darkness and live a life that fully pleases God.

The tale of two sets of so-called believers (re-broadcast of Ep. 434)

Joy to the World | The Strength Found in God's Joy In this Sunday message, the focus is on the biblical meaning of joy and why it is essential to the spiritual strength of every believer The sermon begins with the announcement of Jesus' birth in Luke 2, where the angel declares “good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.” This joy is not limited to a holiday or a season—it is a gift God offers to the entire world through the coming of Christ. True joy begins when a person recognizes their need for a Savior and receives the salvation that Jesus provides. Throughout Scripture, God makes it clear that believers are meant to live in joy. Romans teaches that the kingdom of God is “righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Jesus Himself explains in John 15 that when believers abide in Him—remaining in His Word and obeying His commands—His joy remains in them and their joy becomes full. The message emphasizes that joy is not merely a feeling but a spiritual strength. When joy is lost, believers become spiritually weaker, making it harder to pray, read Scripture, or stay focused on God. Many of the struggles Christians face today stem from allowing distractions, worries, and the “cares of this life” to crowd their minds and rob them of their joy. The sermon also highlights how the world is discovering what Scripture has always taught: what we surround ourselves with influences our lives. Constant distractions, media overload, and negative influences create mental “traffic” that crowds out the Word of God and slowly drains joy from the heart. Believers are therefore called to be intentional about guarding their hearts and minds. Our character is shaped by what we tolerate, repeat, and prioritize. Maintaining joy requires choosing God's truth over worldly influences and keeping our minds fixed on Him. The message concludes with a powerful reminder from Nehemiah 8:10: “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Joy strengthens believers to endure trials, resist discouragement, and remain faithful in difficult times. Like the early church, Christians can maintain joy even in hardship because their hope is rooted in God's promises and eternal purpose. Key Takeaway Joy is not optional for the believer—it is a source of spiritual strength. By remaining in Christ, guarding our minds, and focusing on God's Word, we can maintain the joy that empowers us to live faithfully in every circumstance.

Today's Episode will cover the true definition of hate and how it impacts the lives of Believers. What matters more than the hatred from others is the LOVE that comes from GOD. May you be encouraged that a world full of hate could never overshadow the TRUE LOVE OF GOD! Be encouraged you've got this and JESUS has you! #KeepGoing #GoForth #JESUSgirlENT Scripture Reference: John 15/ Genesis 37 /Esther 3-7/luke 16:19-3 The link referenced during teaching is found here: https://firmisrael.org/learn/jacob-loved-esau-hated-hebrew-word-hate/ (firmisrael.org)‘Endurance': Based on the description "to stand under and get behind," the Greek word that best fits is hupotassō (or hypotasso, ὑποτάσσω). Here is the breakdown of the word:Hupo (ὑπό): A prefix meaning "under" or "beneath".Tassō (τάσσω): A verb meaning "to arrange, set in order, or assign". Key Aspects of Hupotassō:Military Origin: It was used to describe soldiers arranging themselves in formation under a leader.Meaning: It signifies a willing, voluntary "getting behind" (submitting to) an authority, rather than just forced obedience. It often means to voluntarily submit or put oneself under the authority of another.Related Concept - Endurance: If the intent is "to remain/stand under" a heavy load or trial, the term hupomenō (ὑπομένω, "endure/remain under") is also used. Other related words for context:Hupostasis (ὑπόστασις): "To stand under" in the sense of a foundation, substance, or assurance.Opisthen (ὄπισθεν): "Behind" or "at the rear".

It's Monday and Lauretta talks about 1 Timothy 2:1-2 as we offer prayers, intercessions and thanks to God with respect for Him and all people, specifically kings and those in authority so that we may lead quietist peaceful lives full of devotion as the World is on fire. We recall those 4 Members of our military killed and those injured. On this Pulaski Day, Lauretta recalls a great friend of the American Revolution and Father of the U.S. Cavalry, Casmir Pulaski, this is a special day in Chicago because of the city's large Polish population. Lauretta also references the Jewish holiday of Purim that commemorates the saving of the Jewish people by Queen Esther from annihilation at the hands of Haman as it is recorded in the Book of Esther read in synagogue. Believers are urged to send food parcels and give charity as well as partake in a festive meal and drink some alcoholic beverages from sunset tonight to nightfall tomorrow. God has purpose for you. You are called, chosen and redeemed for such a time as this. Modern Persia is Iran. Lauretta invites us to TRANSFORMATION NIGHT, Friday Night, March 13 at St. Mary of Celle, 1428 Wesley Ave., Berwyn. Door open at 6:30. Then continuing all day Saturday, March 14th, the Transformation Retreat “The Fire of the Holy Spirit. For information and registration visit https://www.fromhisheart.com/ St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish 

Send Us Your Prayer Requests --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Guided Question Have I truly experienced the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, or am I relying on tradition, emotion, or head knowledge to define my faith? Summary This message challenges believers to discern whether their faith is authentic by examining the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives. While many claim Christianity by upbringing or verbal confession, true salvation is marked by the indwelling Spirit. The Holy Spirit alone illuminates Scripture, produces spiritual fruit, convicts of sin, and assures us of our relationship with God. Without Him, even the most disciplined religious life remains empty. Dr. Lewis concludes with a call to self-examination and surrender, emphasizing the Spirit-led life over rote religious practice. Outline I. Introduction: Surface-Level Christianity The Word of God cannot be fully grasped without the Spirit. New believers often exhibit a spiritual hunger that signals true faith. II. A Testimony of Real Conversion A man uninterested in church suddenly desires the Bible after salvation. His hunger reflects the Holy Spirit's work, not mere human curiosity. III. What Marks True Salvation? Outward confession alone is not the biblical evidence of salvation. Jesus did not trust all who claimed belief (John 2:23–25). Nicodemus believed in Jesus but still lacked the Spirit (John 3:1–7). IV. The Holy Spirit: God's Seal and Guide The Spirit is God's down payment and assurance of redemption (Ephesians 1:13–14). The absence of the Spirit means one is not Christ's (Romans 8:9). The Spirit leads, confirms our adoption, and gives us intimacy with God (Romans 8:14–16). V. Counterfeit Faith Exposed Cultural or passive faith can mimic genuine faith but lacks transformation. True faith includes repentance, desire to know God, and fruit of the Spirit. VI. Academic Religion Without the Spirit Even seminary or Bible teaching can become dead without the Spirit's presence. Intellectual pursuit does not equal spiritual transformation. VII. Final Call: Examine Yourselves Paul calls believers to test whether they are truly in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). Signs of the Spirit include fruit, conviction, guidance, and internal witness. Key Takeaways The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is the clearest evidence of genuine salvation. Verbal confession or church involvement does not equal spiritual rebirth. Only the Spirit can bring Scripture to life and guide us into God's will. Intellectual knowledge without the Spirit leads to spiritual dryness and pride. Believers should regularly test their faith and examine whether spiritual fruit is evident. True Christian living flows from the Spirit, not performance or habit. Scripture References John 2:23–25 – Jesus did not entrust Himself to superficial believers. John 3:1–7 – Nicodemus is told he must be born again by the Spirit. Ephesians 1:13–14 – The Holy Spirit is the seal and pledge of our inheritance. Romans 8:9 – Anyone without the Spirit does not belong to Christ. Romans 8:14–16 – The Spirit leads and testifies that we are God's children. 2 Corinthians 13:5 – Believers are commanded to examine themselves. Galatians 5:22–23 – The fruit of the Spirit as the evidence of transformation. 1 Corinthians 2:10–16 – The Spirit reveals and interprets the deep things of God.   Recorded 6/28/81

Summary In this sobering and clarifying sermon, Dr. Michael Easley confronts the reality of Satan in a culture that increasingly dismisses truth and distorts morality. From the removal of the cross at Wren Chapel to troubling theological shifts within the Church of England, Dr. Easley shows how doctrinal compromise reflects a deeper spiritual battle. He walks through Scripture to define who Satan is—adversary, accuser, tempter, deceiver—and explains his kingdom, influence, and ultimate defeat. Satan opposes the gospel, attacks believers, hates Israel, and seeks to distort truth at every level. Yet believers must neither obsess over him nor underestimate him. We are not called to fight Satan directly but to resist him through submission to Christ. Dr. Easley contrasts Satan's character with Christ's. Satan accuses; Christ intercedes. Satan deceives; Christ is truth. Satan destroys; Christ gives life. Though Satan is powerful and cunning, he is not sovereign. God has already determined his end. The believer's confidence rests in 1 John 4:4: the One who dwells within us is greater than the one who rules this world. In a shifting culture, sound doctrine and spiritual vigilance are not optional—they are essential for faithful endurance. Takeaways Satan is a real, personal adversary who opposes God and deceives humanity. Cultural drift away from biblical truth reflects a deeper spiritual battle. Believers are called to resist Satan, not fight him in their own strength. Satan accuses and deceives, but Christ intercedes and secures our salvation. Temptation is common to all, but the Holy Spirit empowers believers to endure. Our confidence rests in this truth: the One in us is greater than the one in the world. To read the bible online, click here. Click here for other Michael Easley Sermons.

Summary of Message by Pastor Bryan Hudson, DMin FORWARD: The Only Direction God Is Moving (Generated by OpenAI) This message presents “Forward” as a foundational theme: God's direction is always forward, and those who walk with Him must align themselves with that movement. The focus is on developing the right perspective, mindset, and faith to move into a new season with clarity and spiritual strength. Hebrews 12:1–2, Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Perception by Ryan Holiday: Perception is how we see and understand what occurs around us—and what we decide those events will mean. Our perceptions can be a source of strength or of great weakness.  Just because other people say that something is hopeless or crazy or broken to pieces doesn't mean it is. We decide what story to tell ourselves. Or whether we will tell one at all. Welcome to the power of perception.    Forward Is a Mindset Forward is more than physical movement. It is a way of thinking and living. Without a forward mindset, life becomes confined to two realities: The past (what has already happened) The present (what is currently happening) But God is always revealing something beyond what we currently see. A forward mindset embraces growth, development, and destiny rather than remaining trapped in memory or circumstance.   Perception Shapes Experience A central principle of the message is that perception influences reality. Events are real, but how we interpret them determines how they shape us. Believers must guard against allowing: Other people's narratives Cultural narratives Emotional reactions to define their reality. This is not about positive thinking alone; it is about aligning perception with God's Word, promises, and character. Faith itself is a God-centered perspective. What you perceive may not automatically change circumstances—but it will change you, and that transformation positions you for forward movement.   Hebrews 12:1–2 — The Roadmap for Forward Movement The message uses Hebrews 12:1–2 as a spiritual roadmap for going forward: Lay aside every weight — not everything that slows you down is sinful, but unnecessary burdens must be released. Lay aside sin — entanglements that ensnare must be removed. Run with endurance — forward progress requires persistence, not speed. Run your race — avoid distraction, comparison, and outside noise. Look unto Jesus — He is both the author (starter) and finisher (developer) of faith. Forward living requires discipline and focus. Just as travel requires a map, purposeful spiritual movement requires direction and clarity.   The Greatest Obstacles: The Past and the Present The message identifies two major threats to forward progress, along with a third contrasting promise: The Peril of the Past The Peril of the Present The Promise of the Future   The Peril of the Past The past becomes dangerous when it pulls us backward emotionally, mentally, or spiritually. The peril of the past includes: Successes that create complacency Failures that create shame Mistakes that create regret People who try to hold us in old versions of ourselves A key distinction is made: Remembering means learning lessons. Looking back means longing to return. Looking back prevents growth because it distracts from what God is doing now. The warning of Lot's wife illustrates that backward movement can lead to destruction. She was instructed to flee judgment, but instead turned back toward what she was leaving. The lesson: when God says move forward, hesitation and reversal are dangerous. The message also emphasizes the importance of accurate remembrance. Ignoring or distorting history does not solve problems; it perpetuates them. To move forward properly, foundations must be truthful and sound.   The Peril of the Present The present becomes perilous when circumstances alone define identity and possibility. The example of Israel at the Red Sea (Exodus 14) demonstrates this danger. They had been delivered from slavery but faced: An impassable sea ahead An advancing army behind Their past slavery mindset combined with present fear tempted them to retreat. Circumstances seemed to say they would never be free. The command “Go forward” was not merely directional; it was transformational. It was a call to: Change perspective Reject fear-driven narratives Align with God's promise Even when nothing had visibly changed in the moment, God's word introduced a new reality. The message stresses that the greatest difference between a crisis and victory is often what you think about it. God's perspective interrupts fear and invites repentance—not necessarily from sin, but from wrong thinking. Repentance is defined as changing the mind, and mindset change becomes the gateway to blessing.   Moving Forward Requires Intentional Alignment Forward progress may require practical changes: Adjusting what influences your thinking Limiting negative or fear-based inputs Choosing trusted voices Refusing paralysis by over-analysis Standing still is easy. Moving forward is difficult because it involves risk, mistakes, and emotional discomfort. But stopping is not an option if God is moving.   The Promise of the Future If the past contains peril and the present contains pressure, the future contains promise. The promise of the future rests on two anchors: Character in Christ God's promises These provide stability when circumstances fluctuate. Jesus endured the cross “for the joy set before Him,” seeing the future redemption of humanity. That forward vision sustained Him through suffering. Likewise, believers endure by focusing on what God is building ahead.   The Meaning of FORWARD The message concludes by defining forward living through seven qualities: Faithful — steady and full of faith Obedient — responsive to God without delay Resilient — able to recover after setbacks Wise — operating in Christ-centered discernment Aligned — staying in step with God's Word and plan Redemptive — participating in spiritual and social restoration Destined — moving toward God's appointed purpose Final Emphasis The core declaration remains clear: Do not be trapped by the peril of the past. Do not be defined by the peril of the present. Live in the promise of the future. God's way is forward. Those who walk with Him must move in that same direction—mentally, spiritually, relationally, and missionally—bringing others along toward redemption and purpose.

Believers desire the Lord to be working through their lives and through their church. We read about the early church in Acts doing amazing things for the Lord and how the Lord use them to spread the Gospel around the world. Join us a we look at how God worked using a meeting between Philip and a eunuch and how we can be opened to the Lord working through our lives. Chapters (00:00:00) - God Works(00:03:40) - How God Works in My Life(00:10:11) - Philip the Eunuch and His Divine appointments(00:16:22) - How God Works Through the Word of God(00:21:26) - How God Works When We Defer to His Will

Believers are called to live out biblical manhood and womanhood practically by fixing their eyes on Jesus, walking in wisdom, and supporting one another. Through obedience and reliance on the Holy Spirit, families and the church can reflect God's design and offer hope in a broken culture.

Now is the time to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior.The Book of Revelation is relevant to today's world.Perilous times are upon us, marked by moral decay and spiritual warfare.There is a difference between tribulation and God's wrath.Believers will face the Judgment Seat of Christ for their actions.The Great White Throne Judgment awaits those who do not believe.Deception is rampant in the world today, as prophesied in scripture.The rapture could happen at any moment, urging immediate action.Every knee will bow and every tongue will confess Jesus as Lord.We must focus on the things above and share the love of Christ.

The Church has an urgent and joyful responsibility to proclaim the gospel as the definitive testimony of God's redemptive work in Christ, grounded in historical reality and divine revelation. 1 Timothy 2:4–7 emphasizes that God's desire for all people to be saved is fulfilled through the one mediator, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself as a ransom for all—a truth revealed at the proper time and confirmed by eyewitness testimony throughout Scripture. This proclamation is not merely a message but a solemn, personal testimony rooted in the apostles' firsthand encounters with the incarnate Word. Believers can share these facts with kindness, patience, and boldness, even amid opposition. True saving knowledge is not merely intellectual assent but a transformative appropriation of the gospel that reorients life, mission, and identity. Ultimately, the church is called to be a living embodiment of the good news—liberating others from sin, death, and spiritual bondage by faithfully testifying to the historical, life-changing truth of Christ's atonement and victory.

Judges – Session 7 | When There Is No King In this session from Judges 17–18, we see a sobering picture of what happens when God's people drift from His authority and begin doing “what is right in their own eyes” .   The chapter opens with Micah, a man from Ephraim, who steals money from his mother, returns it, and then uses it to create carved images for worship. Though there may have been good intentions, the foundation was flawed from the start. Instead of honoring God according to His Word, Micah builds a private shrine, creates idols, and appoints his own son as priest. Later, he hires a wandering Levite to legitimize his man-made religion. The repeated phrase becomes the theme of the message: “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” The absence of a king was not merely political—it was spiritual. Without submitting to God's authority, chaos followed. The sermon emphasizes that believers often embrace Jesus as High Priest (the One who forgives and restores) and even as Prophet (the One who speaks encouragement), but struggle most with Him as King. The King sets boundaries. The King directs our lives. The King has first claim over our time, resources, and decisions. When we resist Christ's kingship, we forfeit peace and stability. The tribe of Dan enters the story seeking territory. Instead of inquiring properly of the Lord, they align themselves with Micah's false system. They steal his idols and recruit the Levite for their own use. Religion becomes transactional, convenient, and self-serving. Ultimately, they conquer a peaceful city and establish idol worship there—further deepening Israel's spiritual decline. The message highlights a powerful warning: good intentions do not excuse disobedience. Worship cannot be shaped by convenience or personal preference. It must be built on God's Word. When faith becomes casual, sacrificial devotion fades, and people begin reshaping God to fit their desires rather than submitting to Him as King. The session concludes with a personal challenge. Believers are called to walk by faith, not by sight. We will all stand before Christ and give account—not for what felt right, but for whether we obeyed Him. The solution to chaos is not better ideas, but renewed submission to the rightful King. Key Takeaway When Jesus is not recognized as King, spiritual disorder follows. True peace and stability come when we surrender our lives fully to His authority and build everything on His Word.

Welcome to the Grace in Focus podcast. Today, Bob Wilkin and Ken Yates will respond to a question about Romans. What is this book about and to whom is it written? Is the wrath of God in Romans about the Lake of Fire or is it a wrath that is being experienced here and now? The post Is Romans About Believers Being Delivered From Wrath? appeared first on Grace Evangelical Society.

Revelation 4 ... the Believers get CROWNS???Support the show

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To get a copy of our new book "Embracing the Truth" or to have TS Wright speak at your event or conference or if you simply want spiritual or life coaching or just a consultation visit:www.tswrightspeaks.comVisit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation.www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.In this conversation, TS Wright explores the message to the Church in Philadelphia from Revelation 3:7-13, emphasizing the authority of Jesus as the steward of God's household. He discusses the importance of perseverance in faith, the significance of keeping God's word, and the promise of eternal rewards for those who overcome. The conversation encourages listeners to remain faithful and to recognize their role in God's eternal plan, while also highlighting the need to listen to the Spirit's guidance.TakeawaysJesus is the steward of God's household, holding ultimate authority.The role of a steward is to manage and oversee God's kingdom.Perseverance in faith is crucial during trials and challenges.Keeping God's word is essential for spiritual strength.Jesus promises rewards for those who overcome and remain faithful.Believers are part of God's eternal plan and purpose.Listening to the Spirit is vital for understanding God's will.Opportunities from God should be seized when they arise.Glorifying God should be the focus of all actions and gifts.The call to action is to surrender fully to God's reign.