Podcasts about Bereans

CheckoutThe God Centered Concept Academy Training Community to learn what growth in Christ isTUVU CommunitiesCheck out this link to view Kingdom Cross Roads on TV.https://jesussaid.tv/?affiliate=tswright_gccTo 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.How do you move from simply reading the Bible to truly studying, understanding, and applying God's Word?In this CPE Summer 2026 edition of Kingdom Cross Roads Podcast, host T. S. Wright welcomes Golden Scroll Awards finalist Judi Galloway for a practical conversation about developing a deeper relationship with God through Scripture.Judi shares how she came to Christ as a child, grew up in a Christian home, and eventually began asking an important question: How do people learn to see so much in the Bible? That question helped launch her own journey into deeper Bible study.After years of participating in guided Bible studies, Judi felt prompted to begin studying Scripture on her own. She began using a journaling approach based on the SOAP method — Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer — and discovered that writing while studying helped deepen her comprehension, retention, and communion with God.That experience eventually became the foundation for her seven-week, 35-lesson Bible study workbook, Examining God's Word: Breathe New Into Your Love for the Bible. The study combines Scripture passages, prompts, practical study skills, journaling, testimonies, and faith-building lessons designed to help readers immediately put what they are learning into practice.In this episode, you'll discover:Why believers should learn to examine Scripture for themselves.How journaling can improve Bible-study comprehension and retention.How the SOAP method can provide a starting framework for studying Scripture.Why Judi designed her study to work for both new Bible readers and experienced students.The importance of following the example of the Bereans by examining Scripture to determine whether what we are being taught is true.How Examining God's Word uses faith as a recurring theme throughout its lessons.Why Bible study should ultimately lead to personal application and a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.How believers can develop their own rhythm of studying and communing with God through His Word.Judi also explains why the physical workbook format is important to her method: readers are encouraged to work directly with the lessons while keeping a separate journal where they record what God is teaching them. Her goal is not merely to provide information about Bible study but to teach people how to study Scripture themselves.Whether you are opening the Bible seriously for the first time or have studied Scripture for decades, this conversation offers encouragement to keep digging deeper into God's Word.Featured Guest: Judi GallowayFeatured Book: Examining God's Word: Breathe New Into Your Love for the BibleHost: T. S. WrightPodcast: Kingdom Cross Roads PodcastSpecial Series: CPE Week / Golden Scroll Awards AuthorsSEO Keywords / TagsJudi Galloway, Judy Galloway, Examining God's Word, Breathe New Into Your Love for the Bible, Kingdom Cross Roads Podcast, Kingdom Crossroads Podcast, T. S. Wright, CPE Summer 2026, CPE Week, Golden Scroll Awards, Christian Product Expo, Christian authors, Christian books, Bible study, how to study the Bible, Bible study methods, SOAP Bible study method, Scripture journaling, Bible journaling, Christian discipleship, studying Scripture, understanding the Bible, Bereans Bible study, Acts 17 Bereans, Psalm 119, Christian testimony, growing in faith, relationship with God, relationship with Jesus, Christian podcast, faith podcast, Bible teaching podcast, Christian living, spiritual growth, discipleship resourcesCall to ActionReady to go deeper into God's Word? Explore Judi Galloway's Examining God's Word: Breathe New Into Your Love for the Bible and begin developing a more intentional rhythm of Scripture study, journaling, application, and prayer.Then follow and subscribe to Kingdom Cross Roads Podcast so you don't miss more CPE Week conversations with Christian authors, teachers, and ministry leaders.And remember: don't simply accept what you hear—open the Word, examine the Scriptures, and discover what God is saying for yourself.Go forth in total surrender to the One who owns and reigns over all creation—and let the great harvest begin.

Jeff Shepherd closes his mini-series with a clear, evidence-based theoretical interpretation of a developing global spiritual and legal framework. In this final episode, he assembles the full chain tying together the seven Noahide laws, the New Apostolic Reformation, the Kabbalistic concept of Tikkun Olam, and the doctrine of the Nitzotzot (divine sparks). Jeff traces how these elements interact — from their Talmudic and U.S. legal roots (Public Law 102-14) to the modern-day promotion of dominion theology and extra-biblical apostolic authority — and describes how this system could pressure Christian belief and practice. The episode identifies attractive cultural packaging (Tikkun Olam), mystical drivers (the Nitzotzot), and long-range strategic influences (Alice Bailey and Theosophy) that converge toward Jerusalem as a geopolitical and religious focal point. Jeff outlines practical red flags for ordinary Christians: teachings that elevate social repair or dominion above the finished work of the cross, language about an inner divine spark, extra-biblical revelation from modern apostles and prophets, softening of Christ's exclusive mediatorship, spiritual warfare models focused on territory rather than hearts, and untested adoption of Jewish mystical symbols. Listeners are given a clear call to action: hold fast to the testimony of Jesus, test every spirit, refuse any system requiring a 'mark,' and build resilient communities grounded in Scripture rather than apostolic networks. The episode closes on a note of confident hope, pointing to the ultimate victory of Christ, the reign of the martyrs, and the assurance that the stone cut without hands will shatter the opposing image. Jeff invites listeners to share the episode, subscribe for future content, and continue to read the Scriptures diligently like the Bereans. Want to Understand and Explain Everything Biblically? Click Here: Decoding the Power of Three: Understand and Explain Everything or go to www.rightonu.com and click learn more. Use coupon code Summer50 for $50. value savings until August 31st.. Thank you for Listening to Right on Radio. Prayerfully consider supporting Right on Radio. Click Here for all links, Right on Community ROC, Podcast web links, Freebies, Products (healing mushrooms, EMP Protection) Social media, courses and more...https://linktr.ee/RightonRadio Live Right in the Real World! We talk God and Politics, Faith Based Broadcast News, views, Opinions and Attitudes We are Your News Now. Keep the Faith

How can Christians determine whether a spiritual experience, dream, impression, or supernatural claim is truly from God? In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins explains why every spiritual experience must be evaluated by the authoritative and sufficient Word of God. First John 4:1 commands believers to test the spirits, while 1 Thessalonians 5:21 instructs Christians to test everything and hold fast to what is good. Christians are called neither to accept every spiritual claim nor to reject everything automatically. They are called to exercise careful, Scripture-governed discernment. This episode considers the sufficiency of Scripture, the danger of treating personal experience as the highest authority, the example of the Bereans, and three practical tests Christians can use when evaluating spiritual claims. Experiences may be powerful and emotionally meaningful, but Scripture alone is the final authority for Christian faith and practice. For more from Anchored in the Word, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/anchored-in-the-wordpage/

Acts 17 - Calvary's Philosophy of Ministry - Pastor Dan PlourdeMESSAGE NOTES:http://www.calvaryword.com/Acts2026/a1470.pdf

Exposing Deception! | Kathryn Krick & Geor Davie | Church Wake Up! The church must grow in spiritual discernment. While the gifts and callings of God remain active today, counterfeit movements and a false spirit of deception are misleading many in the body of Christ. In this urgent message, we expose the dangers surrounding Kathryn Krick and her spiritual covering, Geor Davie, whose ministry fruit reveals a pursuit of power, money, and fame rather than true holiness. Believers must test the spirits, stand for sound doctrine, and contend earnestly for the faith. When the source is compromised, the fruit is dangerous—church, it's time to wake up! Kaythrn Krick is deceived and deceiving many in the body of Christ. She along with her "spiritual daddy," George Davie, are dangerous to the church. Many are sounding the alarm on her ministry because the masses are being seduced by demonic power. We cannot sit back and watch and not speak up. This generation must be warned. The gifts of healing and deliverance are for today and are biblical when the source is truly from the Lord. BUT, there are many who are operating from a false Jesus, a false Holy Spirit and are deceiving the body of Christ. Church know the difference. Test the spirit to see if they are true. Key Scriptures Referenced: 1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but test the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 1 Thessalonians 5:21 But test all things. Hold fast to what is good. Jude 1:3 Beloved, although I made every effort to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt it necessary to write and urge you to contend earnestly for the faith entrusted once for all to the saints. Acts 17:11 Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true. Hebrews 5:14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil. Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. Matthew 24:11 Many false prophets will arise and deceive many. Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. Ephesians 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. We must pray for those deceiving the church today, that they would be convicted of their sin and repent. If they don't repent, we must mark and avoid them. Official Websites: www.cathycoppola.org www.houseofglorychurch.org Watch 24/7: https://mightywindtv.lightcast.com Connect & Be Equipped: Subscribe to @apostlecathycoppola for daily fire and supernatural activation! Join the Movement: Where The Fire Meets The Clouds: Monday - Wednesday Mornings @ 6:30 AM PST House of Glory Church: Every Thursday morning at 10 AM PST and every Saturday evening at 6 PM PST "When the power of God invades the power of darkness, Miracles Happen!" You Can't Buy Deliverance with Money https://youtu.be/_hZZWESE7aY?si=M4p46yrUWOznjnWC From Old Wineskins to New Life: Embracing Change Through Faith https://youtu.be/gneTdvXXfcg?si=V_AGOJI5VSqpDhMK @abednegolufile #KathrynKrick #Exposingdeception #Geordavie #churchwakeup #MightyWindTV #falseprophet #falseapostle #demonic, #warlock# pride, #KingdomAuthority #HolySpiritPower #hosueofglorychurch #ManifestTheGlory Date of service 8/6/26

How do you know what to trust when so many voices promise security, happiness, and answers?In this message, we explore the difference between truth and counterfeit—from the recent “blessing scams” targeting vulnerable people in Vancouver to the very first deception in the Garden of Eden. Scams don't only exploit ignorance; they often target our deepest fears, desires, and longing for security.Through the temptation of Jesus, the example of the Bereans, and Paul's warning against a counterfeit gospel, we discover the importance of biblical discernment. The answer to deception isn't cynicism or trusting everyone—it's learning to recognize the authentic by knowing Jesus.Because when we understand His character, His teachings, and His grace, we can better recognize the voices, promises, and gospels that echo Him—and those that don't.The true blessing isn't found in a formula, a transaction, or something we have to earn. It is found in Jesus, and it has already been given.Visit Us at oacvancouver.ca We believe that Jesus is needed and relevant for people in Vancouver today. The message of God's love and promise of wholeness was destined to be experienced within a faith community that worships, studies scripture and prays together. Let us warmly welcome you to journey with us toward greater connection, purpose and peace.Follow Us Instagram: instagram.com/oacvancouver Facebook: facebook.com/oacvancouver Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cjUJ9XmAMJc1piS1IwOQH?si=dc0f2377d0454e31

Exposing Deception! | Kathryn Krick & Geor Davie | Church Wake Up! The church must grow in spiritual discernment. While the gifts and callings of God remain active today, counterfeit movements and a false spirit of deception are misleading many in the body of Christ. In this urgent message, we expose the dangers surrounding Kathryn Krick and her spiritual covering, Geor Davie, whose ministry fruit reveals a pursuit of power, money, and fame rather than true holiness. Believers must test the spirits, stand for sound doctrine, and contend earnestly for the faith. When the source is compromised, the fruit is dangerous—church, it's time to wake up! Kaythrn Krick is deceived and deceiving many in the body of Christ. She along with her "spiritual daddy," George Davie, are dangerous to the church. Many are sounding the alarm on her ministry because the masses are being seduced by demonic power. We cannot sit back and watch and not speak up. This generation must be warned. The gifts of healing and deliverance are for today and are biblical when the source is truly from the Lord. BUT, there are many who are operating from a false Jesus, a false Holy Spirit and are deceiving the body of Christ. Church know the difference. Test the spirit to see if they are true. Key Scriptures Referenced: 1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but test the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 1 Thessalonians 5:21 But test all things. Hold fast to what is good. Jude 1:3 Beloved, although I made every effort to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt it necessary to write and urge you to contend earnestly for the faith entrusted once for all to the saints. Acts 17:11 Now the Bereans were more noble-minded than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if these teachings were true. Hebrews 5:14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil. Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. Matthew 24:11 Many false prophets will arise and deceive many. Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. Ephesians 5:11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. We must pray for those deceiving the church today, that they would be convicted of their sin and repent. If they don't repent, we must mark and avoid them. Official Websites: www.cathycoppola.org www.houseofglorychurch.org Watch 24/7: https://mightywindtv.lightcast.com Connect & Be Equipped: Subscribe to @apostlecathycoppola for daily fire and supernatural activation! Join the Movement: Where The Fire Meets The Clouds: Monday - Wednesday Mornings @ 6:30 AM PST House of Glory Church: Every Thursday morning at 10 AM PST and every Saturday evening at 6 PM PST "When the power of God invades the power of darkness, Miracles Happen!" You Can't Buy Deliverance with Money https://youtu.be/_hZZWESE7aY?si=M4p46yrUWOznjnWC From Old Wineskins to New Life: Embracing Change Through Faith https://youtu.be/gneTdvXXfcg?si=V_AGOJI5VSqpDhMK @abednegolufile #KathrynKrick #Exposingdeception #Geordavie #churchwakeup #MightyWindTV #falseprophet #falseapostle #demonic, #warlock# pride, #KingdomAuthority #HolySpiritPower #hosueofglorychurch #ManifestTheGlory Date of service 8/6/26

Introduction: How to Have a Church Service, God's Way (1 Corinthians 14:26-40) BUILD UP believers. (1 Cor 14:26b) ELIMINATE the chaos. (1 Cor 14:27-33a) WOMEN don't preach. (1 Cor 14:33b-35) 1 Timothy 2:12-14 - I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet. For Adam was formed first, then Eve; and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. None of this is up for DEBATE . (1 Cor 14:36-40) Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Questions and Answers: What Should a Worship Service Look Like? Jeff Miller Download Audio Transcript 00:36You know, just a few days ago, in this very room, it was complete chaos. It was so good. I mean, VBS, it was complete chaos, right? You're going to hear more about it later. We're going to show you a video. But just kids on top of kids, people screaming and throwing. There was slime dripping from the ceiling. Wasn't supposed to, but there was.01:06And it was just, it was chaos and it was beautiful. Which is fine for vacation Bible school, but chaos is not something that should describe Sunday morning. And that takes us to the passage we're looking at today. So I'm going to ask you to please pray for me.01:36Faithfully represent God's Word. That's all we try to do here at Harvest Bible Chapel. We're not preaching our opinion or scratching itchy ears. We just want to represent the Word of God. And I'm asking you to please pray for me to do that faithfully, and I will pray for you to receive what it is that the Lord has said in His Word. All right? Let's just take a moment and pray.02:09Father, when we open the Bible, the question is, is this from God?02:21Father, we have solidly come to that conclusion.02:25We believe that this is your word.02:28When it says things that we like, and when it says things that we maybe struggle to believe, It's your word. And I pray today, Father, for all of us. You eliminate any distractions or preconceived notions and allow us to receive what it is that your word actually says. We pray in Jesus' name. And all of God's people said, Amen. 1 Corinthians chapter 14. Chapters 11 through 14.03:04in 1 Corinthians is all about corporate worship. Right? And we've been talking through this series. We had a little break from Pastor Taylor's excellent message taking us back to the Old Testament. But in this section in particular where we find ourselves, we're talking about speaking in tongues. And you can go back and review those. But tongues, there was a legit miracle gift. And if you study your Bibles, Speaking in tongues was speaking a known language. All right. It was an existing language, but the speaker, they didn't know that language. They didn't study, but they would. It'd be like if I got up and started speaking Mandarin. I don't know Mandarin, but I started speaking Mandarin because there were Mandarin speaking people in the congregation. That's what the gift of tongues was about. We saw. Previously, the tongues was a sign of judgment.04:04Israel had rejected the Messiah. And tongues was God's way of saying, okay, you're going to hear a language you don't understand because you've rejected me. I'm moving on to other people. And it was for the season of transition from the old covenant to the new covenant. We saw in chapter 13, verse eight, he said, tongues will cease. It's going to come to an end. It was only for a season.04:34The Pagan Practice of Tongues. In many pagan religions, there would be this ecstatic screaming of sounds. They weren't real languages. It's just screaming this gibberish. And the Corinthians brought that into church. It's chaos. There's chaos. Look at verse 26, where we left off last time. Verse 26. Paul says, What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Stop right there. That's not a command, by the way. He's describing the chaos. He's like, here's what your church service is. Everybody shows up, and everybody is like, ooh, ooh, me, I want to teach. I want to speak in tongues. I'm going to sing. And everybody was doing it.05:33And it was just this circus. He says your worship services are just chaos. You have the gibberish. You have misusing the real gift of speaking in tongues. You have the debacle that you've made the Lord's Supper. You have women preaching. You have people showing off. Your services are a complete mess. And it'd be real easy for us to look.06:03and say, wow, yeah, glad we've matured from that. But sadly, many things that are called church services are still a real mess. What have we turned worshiping our Savior God, what have we turned that into? For some churches, it's putting on a concert and giving a pep talk.06:33heresy, screaming gibberish, holy laughter, holy barking, craziness, chaos. So much being done in the name of worshiping the Lord that is anything but actually worshiping the Lord. And you're like, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, hang on a second, hang on.07:01Who says what should happen in a church service anyways? Well, I would suggest to you God. The God that we worship has told us how we should worship. So very simply, in this passage we're looking at today, Paul is outlining here's what a worship service should be. That's what this passage is. What should happen in a church service? Paul's like, this is what should happen right here.07:31So, on your outline, how to have a church service God's way. Number one, first thing has to happen, absolutely has to happen. He says it first because this has to be the primary drive. Number one is build up believers. Build up believers. Look at the end of verse 26. He says, let all things be done.08:01For building up.08:07Here's a philosophical slash theological question for you.08:11Who is church service for?08:13Is it for believers or for unbelievers?08:19Biblically, church service is for believers.08:23Now listen, if you're here today and you're not a believer and somebody invited you, we're so glad that you're here.08:29But we're going to tell you to receive Christ. We're going to tell you to believe what the believers here believe. That we are, by nature and by birth, we are alienated sinners from God. And God reconciled us to himself through the death of his son, Jesus Christ. And he commands us. He commands us to turn from our sin and to believe in Jesus Christ. And when you do, you are saved. You are a child of God. That's the gospel.08:59The goal biblically in our worship service should be building up believers. Like, what parts of the service? Well, your Bible says the same thing that mine does. Let all things, all things be done for building up. It's teaching God's truth and teaching believers how to apply God's truth. I'm not going to spend a lot of time on this because we have talked so much about this through 1 Corinthians chapter 14.09:29Church is where you go to give, not go to get. Over and over and over and over and over. Paul says edify, build up, edify, build up. It's just been the theme of this whole chapter. Paul says when you go to church, you should go to church ready to serve other people. That should be your mindset. I'm not here to get, I'm here to give. You're like, well, what about evangelism?10:01I'll study the book of Acts. When believers are built up, they are prepared to reach the lost in their lives. There's lost people in your life, in your sphere of friends, influence. You need to be built up here so you can go to them and share the gospel of Christ. The church is not what's in it for me, but.10:29Everything we do here has to have the mindset of what can we do to build up believers. That's what he says. So number one, how to have a church service God's way, build up believers. Number two, he says, eliminate the chaos. You've got to eliminate the chaos. Here he talks about two gifts. Just for that day that were not used appropriately in Corinth. Tongues, even the legit, They weren't doing that right. And prophesying. And understand again, the New Testament was being written during this day. So prophets were getting new revelation from God. We don't get that now that the Bible is complete. Right? Those blank pages in the back of your Bible aren't for you adding to Scripture. That's not what that's for.11:32But there were two gifts in that day that were being wildly misused, and it was contributing to the chaos. Tongues and prophecy. First, he addresses tongues. Okay? Legit gift of speaking in tongues. How do we do it? How do we do it? Look at verse 27. He says, and let someone interpret.12:02But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God.12:10First of all, speaking in tongues.12:12They're assuming here, Paul's assuming, that someone is present in church who speaks a foreign language.12:19And you see his guidelines.12:20He goes, okay, two or three of you, not everyone, and take turns and you have to have an interpreter for the sake of the people there that don't speak that language. Right? If somebody's here that speaks Mandarin and I got up and spoke Mandarin, like the rest of you are like, what's going on? You need an interpreter to say, here is what is being said. That's how the gift works. Again, we studied all that several weeks ago. But then he says, if you don't have an interpreter, just sit there and pray silently.12:59So let me ask you.13:01If you've been to or seen a Pentecostal or Charismatic church service, is that how it's done?13:07Is that typically how speaking in tongues happens?13:12You're afraid to say, aren't you?13:15All right.13:16No, that's not how people do it.13:20It's chaos.13:22And that's what Paul's saying.13:23Are you going to knock that chaos off?13:25Right? Then he talks about prophesying. Look at verses 29 through 31. Prophesying. He goes, let two or three prophets speak. Let the others weigh what is said. If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent. For you can all prophesy one by one so that all may learn and all be encouraged.13:55Stop there. Again, prophesying. Prophesying. He's like, just again, two or three. Right? And let the others discern if what is being said is actually from God. Weigh it. Right? And again, some people were preaching already revealed information. Maybe preaching something from the Old Testament. And in this day, as the New Testament was being written and God was giving revelation, There'd be somebody sitting there in church that God would give a revelation to. And Paul says, if that guy has a revelation, the guy that's speaking the old information, have him sit down. Let new revelation guys speak. Right? Then look at verse 32. He says, and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets.14:55What in the world does that mean? It means this. The church was chaos, right? So you pull a guy aside that is a... He just can't help it. He comes to church and he's belting it out. I'm going to prophesy. And he's contributing to the chaos. And it's like, you're not supposed to do that. Remember, two or three...15:25What's he gonna say? Here's what he's gonna say. He's gonna say, I can't help it. I can't help it. Oh, and the spirit comes on me. I just can't help it. I just it just comes out. I can't control myself. And and that's why, you know, you want me to be quiet, but I can't be quiet. Because when the spirit's on me, I just can't be quiet. And verse 32, Paul's like wrong. The spirit of prophets are subject to the prophets, meaning this.15:55He's saying, every spiritual gift is used under the complete control of the one who has the gift.16:03The Holy Spirit does not come upon a person and make that person lose control of themselves.16:10That does not happen.16:12Okay?16:13That does not happen.16:15Paul says, your gifts are under your control.16:20Right?16:21So the exact ways these two gifts were used were Corinth specific, but there's a principle that certainly holds for us today. And it's look at verse 33. The first part, he says, for God is not a God of confusion, but of peace. Paul says a service to worship God should represent God's care.16:52God is a God of peace. He's not a God of confusion. He said, listen, church cannot be a free for all. So you have to eliminate any chaos. Worship has to be orderly because otherwise people will not get built up. And that is why we're here is to build each other up. So that's what he's saying here. Eliminate the chaos. You've got to eliminate the chaos.17:20So how to have a church service God's way, build up believers, eliminate the chaos. Number three, he says, women don't preach. Women don't preach. Look at what he says. Now, the second half of verse 33, it actually goes with this section, not the previous section, right? In my Bible, it's actually indented as a new paragraph, and that's appropriate.17:51He says, As in all the churches of the saints, the women should keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the law also says.18:08All the churches.18:10All the churches.18:11Do you notice that?18:13All the churches.18:14Was it just a problem in Corinth?18:17Apparently not.18:19All the churches.18:21Was it just a problem in the first century?18:25All the churches.18:26Today.18:27Today.18:29Look, I never.18:31I can't remember a period of my life.18:39Where we as a culture have been so messed up about gender issues.18:43I just don't understand that.18:46One of the first things little kids learn.18:50We're so confused about gender stuff, right? Look at our culture. Gender is fluid. I was born one way, but now I can be another way, right? We have people in prominent positions that can't define what a woman is. And some of the same people saying that men can get pregnant. We have trans men or trans women. I can't ever remember.19:18The man who's dressed like a woman playing woman's sports, whatever that is. We're just so mixed up over gender things. And we in the church are like, well, we're not mixed up over gender issues. We have a big one. Let's talk about it. You know, the big gender issue in the church, can women be pastors?19:49It's a hot button issue. But I want you to hear me. The Bible is clear and it has not changed. Women are not to preach in church. And listen, I want you to hear me out, okay? You put your church clothes on and you showed up. So can you just stay and hear me out? I am not anti-woman. I'm married to one.20:19Without a doubt, my absolute most favorite human on the planet is a woman. And there's not even a close second. Okay, I'm not anti-woman. I'm not anti-woman. My mother, rest her soul, my mother was a woman. My sister, also a woman. We have so many faithful servants of Christ here in this church.20:48at this church.20:49I am not anti-woman.20:51I am not anti-woman.20:55But I'm also very much pro-Bible.21:00And the Bible straightforwardly says that the role of pastor, elder, preacher, shepherd, all the same thing.21:10The Bible clearly says that role is for men.21:17It's not my opinion.21:19That wasn't the consensus of the elder think tank. That's what the Bible says. Now you said you'd hear me out. There are so many arguments for pro-women pastors. So many arguments. I'm just going to share a few of them. Some people argue pro-woman pastor. Some people say, hey, hey, hey, look, Women are equal.21:49All right.21:50That's awfully sexist of you.21:52Women are equal.21:53Yes.21:54Yes.21:56Women aren't equal, but equal does not mean the same.22:02Equal does not mean we all have the same roles.22:04Where you work, I'm sure that you're equal with your boss.22:09But you have different roles.22:11Okay.22:13So yes, equal.22:15Not same.22:18Here's another pro-woman-pastor argument I've heard several times. Like, I know this woman pastor and she's fantastic. I went to this church and they had this woman pastor. She's fantastic. It just doesn't matter how good of a speaker you thought she was. A woman pastor is not a thing. Study your Bibles. There is no teaching in the Old Testament.22:45for installing a woman as a priest. And there's no teaching in the New Testament on how to install a woman as a pastor. In fact, all of the instructions for priests in the Old Testament, for pastors, shepherds, elders in the New Testament, it's directed towards men. Titus 1.6 says that elders, pastors should be the husband of one wife. Assuming, Paul was assuming that this was a, role for men.23:18But as soon as you say that, as soon as you say, well, there's no example of women pastors in the Bible.23:25As soon as you say that, some of you might already be thinking it.23:31Somebody thinks they got the trump card on that.23:33They're like, ah, what about Deborah?23:39You heard that one?23:39What about Deborah?23:43Deborah?23:43If you're unfamiliar with the story, I'll paraphrase it for you. Judges chapters 4 and 5. God called a man named Barak to serve him in leading Israel, and he wussed out. And Deborah had to step up and lead, because the man that God called was a chicken.24:16Oh, by the way, this is in the book of Judges. Deborah wasn't a pastor. All right. She wasn't even a priest. She was a military leader. That's what a judge was. Oh, and by the way, if you're looking in your Bible for examples on how to faithfully love and serve and obey and follow the Lord, I would not suggest going to the book of Judges for examples of that. Have you read the book of Judges? It is the craziest book of the Bible. Everyone did what was right in their own eyes. The stuff that happens is just crazy. But somebody comes along and says, well, Deborah. Deborah wasn't a pastor. Deborah wasn't a pastor. But then our more New Testament minded people, say, oh, I know who, you say no woman pastors, but what about, what about, what about Tequila and Priscilla? And I'm like, well, it's Akila and Priscilla, but I know who you're talking about. Acts chapter 18. These two together taught Apollos the way of the Lord more excellently, but it doesn't say anything in that passage about Priscilla being a pastor. It just doesn't say that. It'd be like if a newer believer came to church today, all fired up, all fired up, and their theology is a little off. And I'm like, hey, why don't you go to lunch with the calls? And Matt and Lexi take this person to lunch and teach them the Word of God. That doesn't make Lexi a pastor, all right?26:13A disciple maker, yes, but not a pastor. Neither was Priscilla. But here by far is the biggest objection that you hear. You know it's coming. When you say, well, you shouldn't have women pastors. The Bible says you shouldn't have women pastors. You know what the number one objection is to that. Well, that was just cultural. You hear that one? That was just cultural.26:43back then. What you have to understand in the first century Corinth culture, the first century Ephesian culture, what you've got to understand about the first century culture is they really hated women back then. Look at what Paul told Timothy, 1 Timothy 2. We're not going to unpack all this, but I just want you to see one thing here. Paul says, I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man. Rather, she is to remain quiet. Exactly what he says here. 1 Corinthians 14. Look, for Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. Now, we're not going to unpack all that, but just one thing I want you to note. Paul's reasoning. Paul's reasoning that the woman is not to teach, or preach in church? His reasoning, is it cultural or is it theological? What's his reason? It's theological. And I've had people come at me hard wanting to argue this, and I show them this passage, and their answer is, well, it looks theological, but, but, no, no, no, Corinthian culture. Like, no, no, no, but, look, his reasoning is theological. You can study that yourself. Look at verse 34 again.28:11Back in 1 Corinthians 14. Look at the last phrase here. He says, they are not permitted to speak, but look at this, but should be in submission as the law also says. As the law also says. Again, is his reasoning culture or theological? Like, well, what law? Authority was established at creation. Genesis 3, verse 16.28:43Women are not to be in authority over men, but in submission. And as soon as you say submission, people ready to throw down. Cash me outside, right? You're ready to fight. Because people think that when we say submission, what we mean is weakness. And we've preached this, we've taught this so many times, submission is not weakness.29:11Jesus Christ was in perfect submission to his father for every single thing that he did. You would not dare call him weak. Submission is strength. It takes strength to trust God by submitting to God's established authority. That takes strength. So we talk about women pastors, women not being pastors. We're not talking about issues of equality or talent or ability. We're just we're talking about roles. It's just roles.29:41God says, here's things that I want men to do, and here's things I want women to do. It's just that. And I got to tell you, church, I agree with the late, great John MacArthur, who many times I've heard him teach. The most obvious evidence that a church has abandoned the Word of God is when they have a woman pastor. He goes on. Look at verse 35.30:13He says, if there's anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands at home.30:19For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church.30:26It's shameful for a woman to speak in church.30:28The word shameful means it's a blemish on the church.30:32Not what it says.30:33Speak in church.30:34Speak.30:36Look at the context of the passage.30:37That's why we study the Bible in its context.30:40When it says speak, It's not like a woman walks in the door here. Hi, hi, where's your bathroom? It's like, keep your mouth shut, woman! Take your pagan ways out of here! You are not to speak. Look at the context. What's he talking about? He's talking about teaching and preaching in the church service, right? That's the obvious context. Yes, women can teach women. The Bible says, Titus chapter 2. Children.31:11He's talking here that a woman should not be up here preaching to the whole congregation. You have questions? He says, don't just shout them out in church. Men, don't do that either, all right? If you have questions, ask them in small group, ask them in Bible study, ask them in precepts, ask them whatever. Just not during church service, right? He says, ask your husbands. So husbands, You may be ready to answer some questions, especially after this sermon. If you don't have a husband, if you don't have a husband, a brother, a parent, a small group leader, an elder, yeah, if you're not married, I'm sure any of our elders would be glad to take a phone call from you and answer a question. See, God has a plan for order.32:10roles in the church. Faith means I trust God by doing things His way. And I know, look, I know. I know I'm going to get some texts and I'm going to get some emails because people are going to want to argue this. Right? And in Paul's day, as he wrote this letter and sent it off, He knew that people were going to want to argue this. Which is why I can honestly say I'm so thankful for this last section. Number four, Paul says none of this is up for debate. He knows as soon as you say, look, women should not be pastors. Women should not be preaching in church. People want to fight. And Paul says it's not up for debate.33:09liberal, church-minded, charismatic, feminist objections. And he goes pretty hard in the paint in the end of this. All right? So brace yourself. Look at verse 36. He says, or was it from you that the Word of God came? Or are you the only ones that has reached? See, Paul knew there were people going to read this, and they're like, I really think we should all speak in tongues. And I really think women should be pastors. And Paul's like, oh, oh, are you the authority? Oh, I'm sorry. Did somebody die and make you the expert? That's what Paul's saying. No. Look at verse 37. He says, if anyone thinks that he is a prophet or spiritual, he should acknowledge that the things I am writing to you are a commandment.34:09of the Lord. Listen, if you're spiritual, if you're really mature in your faith, you're going to acknowledge that this is from God. It's not cultural. It's not man's opinion. It's not something to be argued. Paul says God is commanding all of this. Verse 38. Pretty straightforward verse. Look at verse 38. He says, if anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.34:41Paul says, if you refuse to accept this, we refuse to accept you.34:50That's pretty straightforward.34:53Paul's saying, listen, a woman pastor is not a pastor.34:58And you're like, well, I think she is.34:59Paul's like, well, we don't recognize you.35:05Paul says, a church without order is not a church.35:08You can call yourself what you want.35:10But if you're calling yourself a church, but you're not having a worship service that follows an order and follows these biblical guidelines for teaching and for roles, because you're just not a church.35:27If anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.35:30So, verse 39, so my brothers, Earnestly desire to prophesy and do not forbid speaking in tongues. That's the call back to everything that we've talked about in this section. Prophecy, tongues, they were legit gifts in those days. The way that God used them. And that's what Paul's saying here. He goes, yeah, there's legit gifts here. Do them appropriately. Do it right. Do it right. And verse 40.36:04All of this was the introduction. Here's the sermon. Verse 40 is really the thesis of the whole passage. Paul says, but all things should be done decently and in order. Decently. The word decently means beautifully. It means in order. You're like, well, how are, What does that mean? You know, it would be like a man looking at his wife. Say, you know, you're put together perfectly. Everything is just in the right place. And you, everything is just, you're beautiful because there's just such an order and structure to you. Man, don't say that.37:05Everything just fits together on you. Maybe not, but you see the point. Everything fits together. Like, it's all working. It's all in harmony. It's so beautiful. That's what he's saying your worship service needs to be. Everything should fit together. Everything should be harmonious, beautiful. Your Bible might translate it decent.37:34It says, in order, in order, sequence, not chaos. Sequence, not chaos. God is beautiful. God has perfect harmony. And God rules the universe with clear order. So a worship service absolutely must reflect the God that we worship.38:04So our worship team makes their way up. I'd like you to bow your heads with me please. Father in heaven, sometimes your ways are hard to explain. But you haven't commanded us to explain you. You've commanded us to obey you. And your word is very clear.38:35that when we come together to worship, there are things that must happen, there are some things that must not happen.38:46And I'm sure as we go through this, I'm sure some point of this message, for every single one of us, probably each of us have experienced some point of tension.39:01Father help us to be like the Bereans look closely at your word are these things true and resolve that we're all called to submission ultimately Father we're called to submission to you and your word so I pray Father for Harvest Bible Chapel that as we gather for worship I pray Father that there is building up I pray that people are encouraged and edified.39:35And I pray, Father, that you look at all of this and you would regard it as beautiful.39:45You deserve everything we can give you.39:50You deserve so much more than that.39:53But let our hearts, Father, worship you in spirit and in truth.39:59We pray in Jesus' name.40:01Amen. Small Group DiscussionRead 1 Corinthians 14:26-40What was your big take-away from this passage / message?All things must “be done for building up” (1 Cor 14:26). List some ways “building up” happens in church.What arguments have you heard for having a woman pastor? What does 1 Cor 14:33-35 say about women preaching in church?BreakoutPray for one another.

By Kevin Call - In the middle of his missionary journey, Paul walked into 2 cities carrying the same gospel message. He couldn't have been met with 2 distinctly different responses. We must daily search the scriptures like the Bereans.

Drawing from Jeremiah 23 and 14, this message examines the deadly “pathology” of false prophets who deny God's judgment, offer false security, sow division, ignore Scripture, and grieve the heart of God. True gospel ministers honestly confront sin and the coming judgment while pointing to repentance and faith in Christ. Believers are called to stay in the Word like Bereans and thank God for leaders who speak hard truth; unbelievers must acknowledge their guilt and turn to Christ for forgiveness.

God may already have answered your prayer. The real question is whether you will obey what He already said.In Don't Waste The Word, Dr. Monique Flemings teaches from Acts 17:1-14, comparing how the people in Thessalonica and Berea responded to the same gospel message. One group resisted truth when it challenged their comfort and influence. The Bereans received the message eagerly, examined Scripture daily, and allowed truth to lead them toward belief and obedience.This message is for anyone who keeps asking God for direction but has not acted on what He has already said. You will learn how to study the Bible with an open heart, recognize where God is correcting you, and move beyond emotional moments into lasting spiritual growth.In this episode, you'll discover:• Why constant access to sermons can create familiarity without reverence• How to receive correction without becoming defensive or unteachable• Why biblical transformation includes research, recognition, repentance, and changed behavior• How to test preaching and prophetic words against Scripture• Why obedience matters more than notes, knowledge, or emotional reactionsPrimary Scripture: Acts 17:1-14 NLT, with special focus on Acts 17:11.Share this episode with someone who needs to act on what God has already spoken.Purpose City Church is a multiethnic, intergenerational church in Aurora, Illinois. Follow The Purpose City Church Podcast and visit https://www.purposecitychurch.com/.

Drop us a note about the podcast. Churches built in the 1800s go up in flames, steeples collapse, and the public line is often the same: “We don't know what caused this.” That shrug should bother us. We start with the uncomfortable pattern of church vandalism and fires, then move to a sharper question: what changes in a culture when it decides Christianity is fair game?From there we open Acts 17 and walk the road with Paul, from Thessalonica to Berea to Athens. The Bereans model something we desperately need today: they listen, then they search the Scriptures day after day to see if it's true. In Athens, Paul finds an altar “To An Unknown God” and uses it to preach the Creator who doesn't live in man-made temples, who rules over nations, and who commands repentance. The resurrection isn't presented as a metaphor, it's the proof that history is headed toward judgment and mercy is available right now.We also pull the lens closer to home with Song of Solomon and a candid talk about marriage, the confusion inside the church, and why biblical roles and responsibilities can't be treated like optional extras. Psalm 144 and Proverbs 17 add practical wisdom: God is our refuge, our days are brief, and a wise person learns when to speak and when to stop.To connect faith with civic life, we remember Medal of Honor Chaplain Vincent Robert Capodanno and revisit John Witherspoon and Noah Webster on choosing leaders of moral character who rule in the fear of God. If this strengthens you, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find it.#ChristianNation#AmericanHeritage#NoahWebsterSupport the showThe American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribeCountryside Book Serieshttps://www.amazon.com/Countryside-Book-J-T-Cope-IV-ebook/dp/B00MPIXOB2 America's Christian Heritage Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/2622483

Paul walks into Athens, a city stuffed with idols and clever talkers, and instead of being impressed he is grieved. Rather than condemn the crowd, he starts with an altar they had built to an unknown god and tells them he has come to make that god known, even quoting their own poets on the way to the resurrection. Together with the Bereans, who checked everything Paul said against Scripture, these scenes model how to speak the gospel into a skeptical culture without watering it down. This is a chapter for Christians who feel surrounded by unbelief and are unsure how to begin.  The Rev. Dr. Matthew Tassey, pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Shawnee, OK, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Acts 17:1-34.  To learn more about Redeemer Lutheran, visit redeemershawnee.org. The book of Acts picks up where the Gospels leave off. Jesus has risen. He has ascended. And now what? Acts answers that question. Luke tells the story of how the Holy Spirit built the Church from a handful of frightened disciples in Jerusalem into a movement that reached Rome itself. Along the way, you get Pentecost, the first sermons, the first martyrs, the conversion of Paul, the first church councils, shipwrecks, riots, and the persistent, stubborn work of God through Word and Sacrament even when His people didn't have a plan. If you've ever wondered how we got from Easter morning to the Church you sit in today, this is the book. Tune in for this new series on Thy Strong Word with Pastor Phil Booe and guest pastors as we open up the Book of Acts.  Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

In a world where opinions are loud and knowledge is abundant, it's easy to get caught up in the noise and forget the importance of being a learner. This episode of the podcast explores the value of humility and the dangers of being a "know-it-all." The speaker delves into the story of Elijah, a powerful prophet who became complacent in his knowledge and lost sight of the truth.As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it's tempting to think we have all the answers. But the truth is, we're often stuck in our own perspectives, unwilling to listen to others or consider alternative viewpoints. The speaker shares the Fineman technique, a four-step process for demystifying complex topics and gaining a deeper understanding. This approach involves selecting a concept, mapping your knowledge, teaching it to a twelve-year-old, reviewing and refining, and testing your understanding.The conversation also touches on the importance of humility in learning, citing the Bible's emphasis on seeking wisdom and understanding. The speaker encourages listeners to be like the Bereans, who searched the scriptures daily to see if what they were being taught was true. By embracing a learner's mindset, we can avoid the pitfalls of being a know-it-all and instead cultivate a deeper understanding of the world around us.In this episode, the speaker is joined by Eric McClanahan, who shares his insights on the importance of being a learner in today's complex world. Together, they explore the challenges of navigating information overload and the need to seek out multiple sources of knowledge. If you're ready to shift your perspective and become a lifelong learner, tune in to this episode to discover the value of humility and the benefits of seeking wisdom.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sunday Worship July 19th, 2026   “The Bullies & The Bereans” Acts 17:10-15 Rev. Tyler Dirks   Sermon Audio   Sermon Outline: The Bullies The Bereans The Body Reflection Questions: When (and how) have you been a bully? When have you been preoccupied with a particular brand of Christianity (or theology), and/or the celebrity appeal […] The post The Bullies & The Bereans appeared first on East Charlotte Pres.

This week's At the Movies takes on Wicked, the story of Glinda and Elphaba and how a friendship gets tested when one of them decides truth matters more than popularity. It's the same choice believers in Thessalonica faced in Acts 17, and the same one we face today: do we accept what we're told, or do we test it for ourselves like the Bereans did? We're unpacking Paul's charge in 1 Thessalonians 5:20-22 to "test everything, hold fast to what is good," and what spiritual discernment actually looks like in practice. Because what we don't know can hurt us, and it's never too late to see the truth.

Acts 17:5-10 tells us the story of the Bereans who tested Paul's words against the eternal Word of God. While this sounds like a good story, it's a courageous call for believers today to do the same – and we search the Scriptures daily to stand firm in the truth and know Jesus.

The Bereans received Paul's message with eagerness, but they also examined the Scriptures daily to see if his teaching was true. In Acts 17, they give us a model for faithful listening. This episode calls us to receive God's Word eagerly, test every teaching by Scripture, and live with courage rooted in trust.

HOLD FAST | Seven Letters Part 4 – Thyatira In a world overflowing with opinions, how do we stay anchored in truth? In this message from Revelation 2, we explore Jesus' letter to the church in Thyatira and discover the danger of allowing our preferences to shape our beliefs. Learn why discernment matters, how the Bereans provide a model for us today, and what it truly means to "hold fast" in a culture constantly pulling us off course. Don't let your preferences shape your theology; let Scripture shape your preferences.

In Week 12 of our Welcomed. series, we explore two very different responses to the same gospel message. In Acts 17:1–15, Paul faithfully proclaims Jesus in both Thessalonica and Berea, yet one city responds with jealousy, opposition, and hostility while the other receives the Word with eagerness and examines the Scriptures daily.What makes the difference?This passage challenges us to consider whether we approach God's Word as a threat to our assumptions, preferences, and priorities—or as a gift from a good and loving God. The Bereans remind us that the welcome of Jesus creates hearts that eagerly receive the truth, submit to God's authority, and delight in hearing His voice.Join us as we discover the joy, freedom, and transformation that come from receiving God's Word on His terms and allowing the gospel to shape every part of our lives.For more information about Integrity Church, visit our website, http://liveintegritychurch.orgConnect with us on social media throughout the week to stay up to date on events and things happening at Integrity!Instagram: @integrity_churchFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/liveintegrity/

In this message, Pastor Emily Olson teaches from Acts 17 about what it looks like to be a church that hungers for God's Word. Through the example of the Bereans, we are reminded to receive Scripture eagerly, examine it daily, and allow it to shape how we live and obey Jesus.

Paul and Silas preach in Thessalonica, get run out of town, land in Berea, and Paul ends up alone in Athens, face to face with a city full of idols. The question tying it all together: how do you keep sharing your faith when it keeps costing you something? In this episode, we walk through Acts 17 with Carlos Renfroe — covering the Bereans, Paul's Mars Hill moment, and why your identity in Christ is what keeps you standing when the outcome isn't guaranteed. Join us Sundays at 10 AM | The Healing Place Shreveport | thpshreveport.com Timestamps: 0:00 - Intro 1:49 - Thessalonica: When the Gospel Starts a Riot 4:00 - The Bereans: How to Study the Bible the Right Way 5:48 - Paul in Athens and the Altar to the Unknown God 8:04 - How Do You Keep Going When Sharing Your Faith Gets Hard? 9:41 - Your Identity in Christ Is What Holds You Together 11:54 - The Be-Know-Do Framework and Closing

As we conclude our journey through the book of Romans, we're confronted with a powerful warning about the danger of disunity in the church. This message explores how Jesus himself warned us through parables about division infiltrating the body of Christ. The parable of the mustard seed takes on new meaning when we understand that Jesus wasn't celebrating growth, but warning that the church would become something it was never meant to be—a massive tree where birds (representing demonic influence) could nest. We're reminded that unity isn't just a nice ideal, but carries supernatural power. The biblical math is stunning: if one can put a thousand to flight and two can put ten thousand to flight, imagine what happens when the entire body moves in agreement. This message challenges us to examine our hearts for roots of bitterness and division, to mark and avoid those who create obstacles contrary to sound doctrine, and to remember that Christ's blood was shed to unify us. The call is clear: we must be patient with one another, count others as more significant than ourselves, and protect the unity that Jesus died to create. When we gather in his name with unified hearts, there is extraordinary spiritual authority that binds and looses both on earth and in heaven.SERMON NOTES – Romans 16:17–27 / Unity, Division, and the Crushing of Satan  -----------------------------  DETAILED NOTES  I. Danger of Division in the Church (Rom 16:17–18)  - Main New Testament warning: disunity (Jesus, Paul, Peter, John, Jude).  - Unity = one Lord, one faith, one gospel; not robotic sameness but shared mission.  - Christ shed his blood to make the church one; division attacks something Jesus died for.  - Paul's commands about divisive people:   - “Watch out for” (mark them, be aware).   - They cause divisions and obstacles contrary to sound doctrine.   - They serve their own appetites, not Christ.   - They use smooth talk and flattery to deceive the naive.  II. Jesus' Parables and the Corruption of the Church (Matt 13)  1. Parable of the Soils    - Seed = Word; soils = hearts.    - Only 1 in 4 bears fruit; of that, some produce 30/60/100-fold.    - Birds = the wicked one (Satan), snatching the Word. Birds are “bad.”  2. Parable of the Wheat and Tares    - Sower = Son of Man; field = world; good seed = sons of the kingdom; tares = sons of the evil one; enemy = devil; harvest = end of age; reapers = angels.    - Wheat and tares look similar until maturity; wheat bows in humility, tares stand proud and darken.  3. Mustard Seed Parable    - Seed (kingdom) planted in the world becomes a tree big enough for birds to nest.    - Mustard should be a bush, not a tree—picture of abnormal, corrupted growth.    - Birds (demons) nesting = the enemy infiltrating an oversized, deformed church through false teaching and division.  III. Power of Unity  - Biblical “math”: one puts 1,000 to flight, two put 10,000—exponential power in agreement.  - Eph 4; Col 3; Phil 2:   - Walk worthy: humility, gentleness, patience, bearing with one another, forgiveness.   - Do nothing from selfish ambition; count others more significant.   - Love binds everything in perfect harmony.  - Matt 18: agreement in prayer after reconciliation; where two or three gather in Jesus' name, He is present.  IV. Crushing of Satan (Rom 16:20)  - “God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet”: peace = the end of conflict, not passivity.  - Genesis 3:15: promise of a serpent-crusher; Satan watches the seed-line through history.  - Jesus revealed as Lamb of God; defeats Satan's temptations with the Word.  - On the cross: “It is finished” (paid in full). Satan's apparent victory is actually his defeat.  - Justification (penalty), sanctification (power), glorification (presence of sin removed).  V. “My Gospel” and the Open Door (Rom 16:25–27)  - Paul calls it “my gospel” – it must move from abstract truth to personal reality.  - Mystery revealed: salvation open to all nations, not just Israel.  - Same blood, same cross, same way for everyone; the blood will never lose its power.  -----------------------------  PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS  1. Guard against division: refuse gossip, confront offense biblically (Matt 18), seek reconciliation quickly.  2. Deepen discernment: know Scripture (like Bereans, Acts 17:11); test teaching, including online voices.  3. Pursue unity: intentionally prefer others' interests, practice patience and forgiveness in your church.  4. Use the Word in warfare: answer temptation and lies with Scripture as Jesus did.  5. Make it *your* gospel: regularly meditate on Romans; personalize what Christ has done for you.  -----------------------------  DISCUSSION QUESTIONS  1. Where have you seen division harm a church? What were the roots of that division?  2. In what ways can “tares” and “wheat” look similar today? How does maturity reveal the difference?  3. How can your group practice biblical reconciliation when someone is offended?  4. What are some current “human philosophies” or trends that conflict with the gospel?  5. Has the gospel become “my gospel” for you? How is that evident in your daily decisions?

A sermon preached by Abby Steele with Foundry UMC, June 14, 2026, 3rd Sunday after Pentecost. "We Know Who We Are" series. Texts: 1 Corinthians 13:8-12; Acts 17:10-15   Good morning! Thank you for coming to Youth Sunday. I'm so grateful to have the opportunity to be here with you all. My name is Abby Steele, and I have been attending Foundry since I was a little kid, and became a member of the church in 2022. I recently graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School. For those of you that don't know, TJ is a regional science and technology public magnet school in Northern Virginia. Many students at my school put emphasis on fact and certainty, which has made navigating my life as both a scientist and a devout Christian a bit challenging. However, throughout my time in high school, I have learned a strong lesson as to how these two identities can coexist together, and I would love to share this with you all. When I was around ten years old, my nana and I were sitting in her 2010 Toyota Camry waiting in the kiss-and-ride line to pick up my younger cousin from school. She always believed there is no such thing as being too young for intense philosophical discussion, so that became the topic of conversation during our wait. I told her, "I read The Great Emergence, like you recommended." This book was a challenging read for my ten-year-old self, filled with words too long for me to interpret and sayings too old for me to comprehend. Nevertheless, I read it with determination. Our conversation centered on the trustworthiness of the Bible—something I never could have imagined discussing with my grandmother, who grew up in a conservative Christian household. However, she had experienced a complete religious transformation later in life, which sparked a new tradition of elaborate spiritual car talks.   We discussed our shared struggle to believe certain biblical stories. Together, we came to see many of them as metaphors rather than historical accounts. I wasn't sure whether they were accurate or not, but I began to realize that the purpose of stories was not necessarily the factual evidence they contained, but the lessons they taught. That ordinary Monday afternoon completely changed the trajectory of my religious life. The conversation left me unafraid to be curious. If we can question and interpret God's word, why not view every experience through the same lens? When I look back on that conversation, I think of the passage from Corinthians we just heard. Paul describes the transition from childhood into adulthood, and he reminds us that, for now, our understanding is only partial as we can only see a reflection in a mirror. We do not see the whole picture.   I've often encountered people in religious contexts that really fear doubt and uncertainty. They worry that asking too many questions will make them appear as being unfaithful and disloyal, but the conversations I've had with my grandmother beg to differ. My faith has been profoundly deepened by allowing myself the space to question and decipher every aspect of Christianity and the bible. I've come to understand that Paul is right - we are only capable of seeing a reflection of our reality. But by learning about and accepting multiple interpretations of religious texts and messages rather than turning a blind eye to the parts that we may disagree with or not fully comprehend, we are capable of conjuring a far greater picture and understanding of our faith. Since childhood, I have struggled with my faith in God, the afterlife, and sometimes even science. How can I know something is true without ever seeing it? I couldn't comprehend how anyone could take the Bible, a collection of ancient texts that have undergone numerous translations, and swear their interpretation was the only truth. Similarly, I found it difficult to believe the science I learned in school was entirely accurate. In my neurobiology class, I found myself staring at diagrams of neurons, wondering how we could know that consciousness comes from neural pathways when we're only inferring from electrical patterns.   I came to recognize that belief in something unseen wasn't limited to faith; science asks for it too. The further I studied science and religion, the more openly acknowledged this uncertainty became. One example came from my physics class, where we learned about Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle, which states that we cannot know both the position and speed of a particle with perfect accuracy. That night, I was led down an internet rabbit hole on the limits of quantum mechanics, driven by my disbelief that academia could acknowledge doubt so openly.   At first, I saw this principle as a reason to distrust science. But with each new article I read, I realized my perspective on this principle actually mirrored how I like to approach religion. Uncertainty isn't a weakness - It's the beginning of understanding. Scientists do not stop asking questions because they are worried about appearing not knowledgeable or unqualified. They keep investigating. They keep learning. They keep seeking truth.   And that reminds me of the passage from Acts we heard this morning. For some context, Acts 17 details the persecution Paul and Silas faced in Thessalonica and their subsequent escape to Berea, where receptive crowds carefully evaluated their teachings. What stands out so significantly to me about the Bereans is that they didn't completely reject Paul's teachings like in Thessalonica, but they didn't simply accept Paul's words at face value either. They examined the Scriptures for themselves. They researched. They investigated. Not just once, but daily to test whether Paul's teachings were correct. They asked questions. And through that process, many came to believe on their own terms.   Their faith was not built on blind acceptance. It was strengthened through curiosity and discovery. I think this is exactly what I had learned with my nana in that car all those years ago. Faith does not forbid us from thinking critically and investigating what we are receiving. God is not threatened by our questions. He accepts them. I first saw uncertainty as something that threatened both science and faith. Now, I see it as something that connects them.   Even though there is vast unknown knowledge in both religion and science, for me, they are tied together by an innate desire to understand and discover the truth, regardless. So whether you're studying for a test, struggling through a difficult season, wrestling with a Bible verse, or praying a prayer that feels unanswered, remember this: We do not need complete certainty to keep moving forward. We can trust God while still asking questions. We can have faith while still seeking understanding. And sometimes the greatest growth happens not when everything is clear, but when we have the courage to step into the unknown. Thank you, and happy Youth Sunday.

Send us a message!We read Acts 17 and 18 and watch the gospel collide with jealousy in Thessalonica, careful study in Berea, curiosity in Athens, and conflict in Corinth. We end by asking what kind of listener you are when God's Word challenges you, especially when the message feels familiar instead of new. • Paul reasons from Scripture that Jesus is the Christ • Thessalonica erupts in jealousy and political accusations • Bereans examine the Scriptures daily as a model for discernment • Paul confronts idols in Athens and preaches the Creator and resurrection • Mixed reactions to the resurrection and a few believe • Paul's work and ministry partnership with Priscilla and Aquila in Corinth • God's encouragement to keep speaking without fear • Gallio dismisses the charges and the case fizzles • Apollos grows through humble correction and becomes a powerful advocate  At outloudbible.com, you can find free resources to help you study the Bible. And while you're there, send us a message to say hi, or start a conversation about having us at your church or event. If Outloud Bible has been a valuable part of your understanding of the Bible, please consider supporting the ministry by visiting outloudbible.com.Support the showCheck out outloudbible.com for helpful study resources, and to discover how to bring the public reading of God's word to your church, conference, retreat, or other event.

On today’s edition of SUFTT, we review what it means to be a Berean, as outlined in Acts 17. When Paul was preaching Christ to the Thessalonian Jews, he also had the attention of the Greeks in attendance at the synagogue. Greeks often attended in those early days of the church because they weren’t interested in the rampant paganism, but opted instead to hear about the Jewish Messiah. While the Jews weren’t interested in having their traditional boat rocked, the Greeks of Berea were considered more noble because they were critical thinkers and sought to search the Old Testament daily to see if what Paul said was true, and many got saved. Today we use that context to talk about the ways the church must be Bereans as well – critical thinkers – when it comes to understanding and believing God about Israel and about prophecy. Churches that don’t teach prophecy, which permeates both old and New Testament, are not being Bereans. The challenge to filter everything we hear, every day by the Word of God may require time and diligence but it is of the utmost importance.

Acts 17:10-15, the Bereans model a deep hunger for truth without cynicism or passivity. In an age of outrage, reaction, and shallow formation, disciples of Jesus become people who search the Scriptures with humility, discernment, and expectancy.

Have you ever learned the wrong lesson because you only heard part of the story? When we pull verses out of context, ignore the audience, or miss where a passage fits into the larger narrative of Scripture, we risk misunderstanding what God intended to say. The Bible is not a collection of disconnected stories. It is one unified story of redemption, and learning to read it biblically changes everything.

In this episode of The Fact Hunter, I break down Steven Spielberg's new film Disclosure Day and examine the deeper themes hidden beneath its extraterrestrial storyline. Is the movie simply science fiction, or is it part of a larger effort to reshape how people think about God, creation, truth, and humanity's place in the universe? We explore the film's use of biblical imagery, its treatment of Genesis, the symbolism surrounding Wardex Corporation, and the recurring message that mankind cannot be trusted with the truth. From secret knowledge and elite gatekeepers to Hollywood's long fascination with war, dinosaurs, and outer space, this episode asks whether modern entertainment is merely reflecting culture or actively helping to shape it. Most importantly, we discuss why Christians must remain Bereans, testing every claim against Scripture and holding fast to the Gospel of Jesus Christ in an age increasingly defined by deception, confusion, and competing versions of reality.Email: thefacthunter@mail.comWebsite: https://www.foundationsinfaith.net

Host Jeff Shepherd opens this redirected message by tracing the roots of spiritual deception from the Garden of Eden to the present cultural moment. He examines the serpent's first subtle twist—"you will become like God"—and shows how the enemy mixes truth with distortion to draw people away from the Father's will. Using Jesus' wilderness temptations as an example, Shepard highlights the pattern of quoting Scripture accurately while misapplying it. He then surveys the historical and occult currents that have infiltrated modern spirituality and parts of the church: the rise of counterfeit Gnostic writings after the New Testament, Helena Blavatsky's Theosophical movement, and Alice Bailey's channeled teachings about Ascended Masters and the Aquarian Age. The episode also contrasts the polished “false light” of unity and ascension with the darker current represented by figures like Aleister Crowley and his law, “Do what thou wilt.” Shepard explains how the strategy is to lure sincere seekers with feel-good spiritual language and then unveil lawlessness once the masses are committed—ultimately preparing a platform for a one-world religion and the coming “man of lawlessness.” Key Scripture and warnings are emphasized, including 2 Thessalonians 2:3 and the biblical truth that believers do not become God but are made new in Christ. Shepard urges listeners to be Bereans: test everything against Scripture, repent where needed, return to the Word, and stand firm in the true Jesus. There are no guests on this episode—just a focused, pastoral warning and practical next steps for listeners who want to avoid deception and live faithfully. The episode closes with encouragement: there is no condemnation for those in Christ, and a call to love God, love family and neighbor, and make a difference in your community. Shepard promises to continue the series in the next episode. Thank you for Listening!. Prayerfully consider investing support to continue spreading the word. ZPlease like, subscribe and share. Click Here for all links, Right on Community ROC, Podcast web links, Freebies, Products (healing mushrooms, EMP Protection) Social media, courses and more...https://linktr.ee/RightonRadio Live Right in the Real World! We talk God and Politics, Faith Based Broadcast News, views, Opinions and Attitudes Keep the Faith

Host Jeff Shepard traces the occult roots and the theological drift from early spiritualist influences through Azusa Street into the mid-20th century Latter Rain movement. He explains how promises of spiritual awakening and Christ-consciousness were repackaged into new doctrines and leadership structures that elevated extra-biblical revelation above Scripture. The episode examines William Branham and his influence on the 1948 revival in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, outlining Branham's controversial teachings—denial of the Trinity, the serpent-seed doctrine, elevation of the zodiac and pyramids as supplemental scriptures, staged healing practices, and claims to prophetic authority. Shepard connects this stream to the development of the Latter Rain teaching that restored apostles and prophets could supersede Scripture and produce “manifest sons of God” who would usher in God's kingdom on earth. Shepard traces the Latter Rain's influence into the Voice of Healing movement, the Charismatic Renewal, the Word of Faith movement, the New Apostolic Reformation, the Seven Mountain Mandate, and contemporary Kingdom Now theology. He highlights how typological readings of Scripture, extra-biblical revelations, and elite apostolic authority led to dominionist ambitions and spiritualized eschatology that clash with clear biblical warnings. The episode cites key scriptural cautions (1 Timothy 4; 2 Timothy 4; Luke 18:8) about falling away, deceptive teachings, and the danger of seeking teachers who tickle the ears. Yet Shepard emphasizes hope: genuine seekers can still meet the real Jesus—illustrated by two children healed at Azusa Street—even in mixed environments. He urges listeners to test everything, anchor themselves in the unchanging Word of God, be Bereans, and cultivate discernment so imitations cannot deceive. Shepard previews continuing exploration of modern expressions of this stream in future episodes and closes with pastoral encouragement to love God, family, and neighbor while making a difference in the community. Thank you for Listening!. Prayerfully consider investing support to continue spreading the word. ZPlease like, subscribe and share. Click Here for all links, Right on Community ROC, Podcast web links, Freebies, Products (healing mushrooms, EMP Protection) Social media, courses and more...https://linktr.ee/RightonRadio Live Right in the Real World! We talk God and Politics, Faith Based Broadcast News, views, Opinions and Attitudes Keep the Faith

Host Jeff Shepard traces a single ancient lie — "You will become like God" — from Genesis through modern Christian teaching that elevates humanity to divinity. Using recorded statements from well-known ministers such as Kenneth Copeland, Paul Crouch, Bill Johnson, and Benny Hinn, this episode shows how phrases like "I am a little God" and "made man into little gods" echo the serpent's promise in the garden and reappear on pulpits, stages, and television screens today. The episode examines the theological danger of denying Christ's eternal deity, explaining why Jesus must be fully God from the beginning for his sacrifice to save. Key Scripture references are discussed — John 1:1,14; Isaiah 43:10; Isaiah 42:8 — and listeners are reminded that we are redeemed, adopted, and made new in Christ but not converted into divine beings. The program connects modern Sons-of-God teachings to earlier occult and New Age streams, including Theosophy (Helena Blavatsky), Alice Bailey, and the latter rain movement, revealing a continuous influence behind the idea of human divinization. Practical application is emphasized: test all teaching against Scripture, heed the Apostle Paul's warning in 1 Timothy 4:1 about deceitful spirits, and emulate the Bereans by examining the Word carefully. While exposing error, the host affirms that God still meets sincere seekers of the true Jesus — the eternal Son of God who became flesh, died, rose again, and will return as King. Listeners are encouraged to stand firm in orthodox Christian truth, reject teachers who strip Christ of his deity, and live out their faith by loving God, family, and neighbors while making a difference in their communities. Thank you for Listening!. Prayerfully consider investing support to continue spreading the word. ZPlease like, subscribe and share. Click Here for all links, Right on Community ROC, Podcast web links, Freebies, Products (healing mushrooms, EMP Protection) Social media, courses and more...https://linktr.ee/RightonRadio Live Right in the Real World! We talk God and Politics, Faith Based Broadcast News, views, Opinions and Attitudes Keep the Faith

Host Jeff Shepherd examines how modern spiritual language and certain New Age teachings can mask deeper occult roots and form the basis of a one‑world religious outlook. In this episode he traces the lineage of these ideas back to Helena Blavatsky and the founding of the Theosophical Society, explaining why these teachings still matter to today's church and culture. Shepard reviews Blavatsky's life and major works (Isis Unveiled and The Secret Doctrine), summarizes core theosophical doctrines—an unknowable absolute, cyclical cosmos, karma and reincarnation, ‘‘root races,'' and the elevation of Lucifer as a bringer of light—and recounts how she popularized occult vocabulary that later seeped into mainstream spiritual movements. The episode identifies how those doctrines have been repackaged as phrases like "Christ consciousness," "higher self," and the "Great Awakening," and maps their influence forward through figures such as Alice Bailey, intersections with Nazi occultism and Operation Paperclip, and alleged carryover into intelligence programs and segments of the modern church. Shepard contrasts these reinterpretations with biblical teaching and shows concrete examples of scriptural twisting (for example, reinterpreting Matthew 24 and the meaning of the risen Christ). Key points include the danger of fragmenting biblical truth into self‑deification, the reuse of occult symbols and language in Christian contexts, and the pastoral imperative to test spirits and judge doctrine. The episode features host Jeff Shepard (no outside guests) and issues a clear call to be Bereans: study Scripture, learn the true gospel, and develop discernment so counterfeit teachings can be recognized. Shepard closes by previewing the next episode, which will move from Blavatsky to Alice Bailey and her alleged 10‑point plan for influencing churches, and by reminding listeners to love God, love family and neighbor, and to make a difference in their communities. Want to Understand and Explain Everything Biblically? Click Here: Decoding the Power of Three: Understand and Explain Everything or go to www.rightonu.com  Thank you for Listening to Right on Radio. Prayerfully consider supporting Right on Radio. Click Here for all links, Right on Community ROC, Podcast web links, Freebies, Products (healing mushrooms, EMP Protection) Social media, courses and more...https://linktr.ee/RightonRadio Live Right in the Real World! We talk God and Politics, Faith Based Broadcast News, views, Opinions and Attitudes We are Your News Now. Keep the F

Host Jeff Shepherd delivers a bonus message in the Mass Deception series that maps the current spiritual battlefield and explains how a subtle, seductive deception can pull even sincere believers away from biblical truth. Using a vivid store‑hero analogy, Jeff shows how an apparent rescuer — a charismatic, loving movement he calls the “light side” — can initially fight the obvious evil and win trust, only to blend with that evil and produce a false unity. The episode covers the nature of the threefold conflict: the overt Luciferian system, faithful Christians and patriots, and the deceptive light side made up of world‑faith leaders, ascension teachers, and charismatic figures who promote higher consciousness. Jeff highlights how this movement feels loving and right, and why that makes it especially dangerous. Key scriptural warnings are emphasized, including Matthew 24 (false christs and prophets; love growing cold) and 2 Thessalonians 2 (signs, false wonders, and a deluding influence). Jeff explains the concept of a “purple kingdom” — a false unity built on twisted truth and a coming counterfeit Christ — and how remnant believers who test everything against Scripture will increasingly be marginalized. Practical takeaways include a call to know the real Jesus (His birth, crucifixion, resurrection, and return), to test every spirit like the Bereans, to hold fast to Scripture over feelings or unity rhetoric, and to repent and return to the Word without fear of condemnation for past deception. Jeff closes by reminding listeners that the series will continue as he examines how the deception entered the church and urging love for God, family, neighbor, and community.

The most dangerous false teacher doesn't look dangerous—he looks trustworthy. Summary Using James Talarico as a contemporary case study, this message examines how theological drift happens inside the church rather than outside it. The concern is not merely one individual, but a pattern where biblical language remains while biblical meanings slowly change through redefinition, emotional appeals, shifting authority, and cultural accommodation. Through passages like 2 Peter 2, Acts 20, and Matthew 7, believers are reminded that false teaching rarely begins with outright denial but with subtle revisions to historic Christian doctrine. Ultimately, the lesson calls Christians to become Bereans who test every teacher—including James Talarico, pastors, influencers, and denominational leaders—against the authority of Scripture. Reflection & Small Group Discussion Questions 1. Why does Scripture repeatedly warn about false teachers arising from within the church rather than outside it? 2. What makes theological drift more difficult to recognize than outright heresy? 3. Why is charisma, intelligence, or compassion not enough to determine whether a teacher is biblically sound? 4. How does redefining biblical terms like love, sin, salvation, or repentance change the gospel itself? 5. Why are emotional stories powerful, and how can they sometimes become substitutes for biblical authority? 6. What does it mean to let Scripture interpret culture rather than letting culture reinterpret Scripture? 7. Why is the question of authority ultimately at the center of most theological debates? 8. How does theological drift often move across generations according to the examples discussed in the lesson? 9. What are some modern examples where Christians may be tempted to prioritize cultural acceptance over biblical faithfulness? 10. How can you practically become more like the Bereans in Acts 17:11 and test what you hear against Scripture?

In Acts 17, Pastor Troy explores Paul and Silas' ministry in Thessalonica and Berea, emphasizing the power of faithfully proclaiming Jesus through the Scriptures. Paul reasoned from God's Word, explained how Jesus fulfilled God's promises, and remained steadfast despite opposition and persecution. The message highlights the example of the Bereans, who eagerly received the Word while carefully examining the Scriptures daily to discern truth. Pastor Troy encourages believers to pursue both eagerness and discernment, reminding us that lasting impact comes not from chasing influence but from faithfully exalting Christ and grounding our lives in God's Word.

In Acts 17, Pastor Troy explores Paul and Silas' ministry in Thessalonica and Berea, emphasizing the power of faithfully proclaiming Jesus through the Scriptures. Paul reasoned from God's Word, explained how Jesus fulfilled God's promises, and remained steadfast despite opposition and persecution. The message highlights the example of the Bereans, who eagerly received the Word while carefully examining the Scriptures daily to discern truth. Pastor Troy encourages believers to pursue both eagerness and discernment, reminding us that lasting impact comes not from chasing influence but from faithfully exalting Christ and grounding our lives in God's Word.

How the Holy Spirit Leads Through Scripture Not Feelings Dave Jenkins | Anchored in the Word | Servants of Grace Show Summary How does the Holy Spirit lead believers according to the Word of God and not according to subjective impressions or feelings? In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins answers an important question about spiritual guidance, discernment, and sanctification. In a time when many people define the Spirit's leading by personal impressions, inner peace, or emotional certainty, Scripture gives us a far more reliable foundation. This episode explains that the Holy Spirit never leads believers away from the truth He inspired. Instead, He leads God's people through the Word of God, producing holiness, obedience, discernment, and Christlike character. Audio Player Video Player Episode Highlights The Spirit of God always leads through the Word of God The Spirit never contradicts Scripture Spiritual maturity is seen in holiness and obedience, not dramatic experiences Feelings are real, but they are not the final authority God's will is revealed primarily in His Word Believers must test teaching carefully and reject partial truth and subtle deception Key Scriptures John 16:13 2 Timothy 3:16–17 Hebrews 4:12 2 Peter 3:18 Luke 24:27 Luke 24:45 Galatians 5:22–23 Romans 8:13–14 Jeremiah 17:9 1 Thessalonians 4:3 John 17:17 Acts 17:11 1 Thessalonians 2:13 1 Thessalonians 5:21 Psalm 119:105 Full Article Many Christians today speak about spiritual guidance in deeply personal terms. They say things like, “The Spirit told me,” “I felt led,” or “God gave me peace about this.” While those phrases may sound sincere, the real issue is not whether they sound spiritual, but whether they reflect what Scripture actually teaches about the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Bible presents the Spirit's leading in a very different way than much of modern evangelical language does. The Holy Spirit does not lead believers away from the Word of God, beyond the Word of God, or in contradiction to the Word of God. He leads believers through the Word He inspired. That is where discernment begins. That is where spiritual maturity grows. That is where true assurance and stability are found. Jesus says in John 16:13, “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth.” That statement matters greatly. The Spirit is the Spirit of truth. He does not guide believers into confusion, contradiction, or self-defined spirituality. He guides them into truth. And since Scripture is the truth that He inspired, His ministry is never detached from the written Word of God. That is why 2 Timothy 3:16–17 is so important. All Scripture is breathed out by God and is sufficient for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness. The same Spirit who inspired the Word now uses the Word to shape the people of God. He leads us not by bypassing Scripture, but by bringing us deeper into it. He uses the Word to expose sin, renew the mind, strengthen faith, and train believers in obedience. This means that true spiritual guidance is not mainly about receiving private impressions. It is about being formed by divine revelation. The Spirit works through the means God has appointed. He illuminates the text, helps us understand its meaning, presses its truth upon our conscience, and empowers us to obey it. He does not lead us into self-trust, but into submission to Christ through His Word. Luke 24 helps us see this clearly. Jesus opened the minds of His disciples to understand the Scriptures, and He taught them that the whole Bible points to Him. The Spirit's ministry today follows that same Christ-centered pattern. He helps believers understand the Bible rightly, see how it testifies to Christ, and apply it faithfully in daily life. Spiritual growth is not mystical independence from the Bible. It is deeper dependence on the truth of God revealed in Scripture. That is also why the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22–23 matters so much. The Spirit's leading is seen not mainly in dramatic claims, but in transformed character. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are evidences of His work. Romans 8:13–14 adds that those who are led by the Spirit are those who, by the Spirit, put sin to death. In other words, the Spirit leads believers toward holiness, not toward self-centered certainty. This is where feelings must be put in their proper place. Feelings are real. Scripture speaks honestly about them, especially in the Psalms. But feelings are not infallible. Jeremiah 17:9 reminds us that the heart is deceitful. That means emotions, impressions, and internal sensations cannot serve as the final authority for the Christian life. They must be tested by the Word of God. Many spiritual errors begin here. People redefine obedience by their emotions. They confuse inner peace with divine approval. They assume that sincerity is the same thing as truth. But biblical peace does not come from personal preference. It comes from walking in the truth. God's will is revealed primarily in Scripture, and His great will for His people is their sanctification. As John 17:17 says, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” God grows His people through His truth. So how do believers discern whether something is truly the Spirit's leading? A few questions help. Does it align with Scripture? Does it promote holiness? Does wise Christian counsel affirm it? Does it produce the fruit of the Spirit? If something contradicts the Bible, it is not from the Spirit. It does not matter how intense the feeling is, how persuasive the teacher sounds, or how attractive the message appears. The Spirit never contradicts Scripture. This is especially important in a time of subtle deception. Some teachers use Bible words but do not explain the Bible in context. Others give partial truth while avoiding the full meaning of a passage. Some appeal constantly to emotion, experience, and personal story while minimizing careful biblical interpretation. These are serious warning signs. Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans because they searched the Scriptures to test what they were hearing. 1 Thessalonians 5:21 commands believers to test everything and hold fast to what is good. That means faithful teaching should help Christians think biblically, read carefully, and grow in discernment. If a teacher encourages you to focus more on your feelings than on God's Word, more on your experience than on God's truth, or more on private impressions than on the meaning of Scripture, that teacher is not helping you. The Spirit of God always leads deeper into the truth of God's Word. There is actually great comfort in this. Many Christians worry that they are somehow missing God's voice. But the good news is that God has already spoken clearly, sufficiently, and finally in His Word. You do not need secret guidance. You need faithful obedience. The Spirit's work is often quiet, steady, and ordinary. He grows your love for Scripture. He convicts you of sin. He deepens your trust in Christ. He strengthens perseverance in the daily responsibilities of life. That is real spiritual maturity. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” That is how God leads His people. He does it by His truth. He does it through His Word. He does it by His Spirit. And because the Spirit never contradicts Scripture, believers can walk with confidence, clarity, and discernment as they stay anchored in Christ. Takeaways and Reflection Questions Am I looking to Scripture first when I need wisdom and direction? Have I confused strong feelings with the leading of God? Is my understanding of spiritual maturity shaped by holiness and obedience or by dramatic experiences? Do I test what I hear from teachers and preachers by the context and meaning of Scripture? How is the Spirit using the Word of God to grow me in Christlikeness today? Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, please share it with someone who wants to grow in biblical discernment and spiritual maturity. You can subscribe to the Servants of Grace Podcast wherever podcasts are available, YouTube, and you can find more biblical resources at Servants of Grace. Stay rooted in the Word of God and anchored in Christ.

On In The Market with Janet Parshall this week, we updated you on the latest battles over the access to the abortion pill and why “slow-motion” euthanasia is gaining acceptance as a way to end the life of dementia patients. Michael Zigarelli shared eyewitness stories of near-death experiences and 7 lines of evidence to measure whether they are real or not. Dr. Karl Payne was back to answer your spiritual warfare questions including whether the so-called proof of extraterrestrial life are really demonic manifestations. Is Hell real? Would a loving God actually send people there? Dr. Sam Storms took us straight to God’s word to provide clarity and truth to this eternally consequential topic. Janet and Craig are back in their radio classroom continuing to teach us how to be good Bereans and test the ideas being passed off as truth in our world today.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Day 2866 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Interacting with the Spirit: Discernment and Devotion. Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2866 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2866 of our Trek.   The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website   theologyinfive.com.   Today's lesson is titled:  Interacting with the Spirit: Discernment and Devotion. In a time when spiritual experiences are common but theological clarity is often lacking, many believers are left wondering how to rightly interact with the Holy Spirit. Should every spiritual prompting be obeyed without question? Can pastors or teachers claim the Spirit's authority and remain above critique? And how can we know when something is truly from God or when it is a counterfeit? Scripture answers these concerns not with vague encouragement but with strong instruction. The Holy Spirit is real, personal, and present. Yet we are commanded to test the spirits, to examine prophetic claims, and to remain anchored in the Word. This lesson explores both who the Holy Spirit is and how the people of God are called to respond to His voice with reverence, wisdom, and truth. The first segment is: Who Is the Holy Spirit? Yahweh Among Us The Holy Spirit is not a mystical force or a divine power switch. He is the third Person of the Trinity, fully God, fully eternal, and fully personal. From the very first pages of Scripture, we see Him present in creation, hovering over the waters as the breath of Yahweh. He does what only God can do. He speaks, commands, empowers, and gives life. The New Testament affirms this divine identity. Peter tells Ananias in Acts 5 that he has lied to the Holy Spirit, and then immediately states he has lied to God. Paul in Second Corinthians 3 refers to the Spirit as “the Lord.” The Spirit is not a created being nor an impersonal wind. He is Yahweh, and to interact with Him is to encounter the living God. In the Old Testament, the Spirit came upon judges, prophets, and kings to empower them for specific roles. He anointed artisans, guided leaders, and spoke through messengers. Yet He did not dwell permanently within all of God's people. His presence was selective and often temporary. This was not due to any deficiency, but because the covenant had not yet reached its fulfillment. The temple was sacred space. Only after the atoning work of Christ could human hearts become that temple. At Pentecost, this changed. The Spirit descended not on a mountain or a sanctuary but on the gathered body of believers. He came to dwell within them, not just with them. This marked a new chapter in the life of God's people. Every believer now becomes a temple of the Holy Spirit. The same God who descended on Sinai and filled the Tabernacle now fills the hearts of those who belong to Christ. This matters deeply for discernment. When we speak of testing the spirits, we are not dealing with vague impressions or spiritual atmospheres. We are discerning whether what we are hearing or experiencing aligns with the character, authority, and truth of the One who is Yahweh, the Spirit of God. The second segment is: The Call to Discernment John gives a direct and sobering command: do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. This is not a warning against all supernatural experiences. It is a call to distinguish between what is truly from the Spirit of God and what is false. The early church faced false prophets, counterfeit visions, and teachings that claimed divine authority. Today is no different. Paul writes to the Thessalonians, urging them not to quench the Spirit and not to despise prophecy, but to test everything and hold fast to what is good. The balance is clear. We must be open to the Spirit's work while remaining grounded in discernment. Testing is not opposition to the Spirit. It is obedience to Him. Testing involves examining whether a message or experience lines up with Scripture. The Spirit never contradicts the Word He inspired. Isaiah tells the people of his day that if someone does not speak according to the law and the testimony, there is no light in them. This remains true. The Spirit of truth does not speak lies or encourage rebellion against God's Word. We also test by fruit. Jesus said a tree is known by its fruit. Does the spiritual experience or message produce love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control? Or does it bring division, fear, pride, and confusion? The Spirit builds up the Church in holiness and unity. He does not lead people into chaos or flattery. Another test is whether the Spirit glorifies Christ. Jesus said the Spirit would not speak on His own authority but would take what belongs to Christ and declare it. The Spirit always lifts up Jesus. Any voice or experience that shifts attention away from Him is not of God. Finally, discernment happens in community. Paul instructed the Corinthians that prophetic words should be weighed by others. Even sincere believers can mishear, misunderstand, or be misled. A healthy church does not operate on private revelations that cannot be tested. The Bereans were praised for examining Paul's words against the Scriptures. True spiritual leadership invites scrutiny because it is committed to the truth, not to control. The Third Segment is: Spiritual Abuse and the Misuse of Authority One of the most dangerous distortions of the Spirit's work is when spiritual leaders use His name to shield themselves from accountability. If a pastor or teacher tells the congregation that their words must be accepted without question because they are Spirit-led, something is deeply wrong. No one is above testing. Not even Paul was exempt. In Galatians, Peter is corrected publicly for behavior that contradicted the gospel. True authority submits to the Word of God. When leaders resist examination, they are not protecting the Spirit. They are protecting themselves. The Holy Spirit does not bless pride, manipulation, or spiritual intimidation. He convicts sin but never controls through fear. He leads but does not coerce. He exalts Christ, not personalities. Discernment is not rebellion. It is loyalty to the One who gave us His Spirit and called us to walk in truth. The fourth segment is: Blaspheming the Holy Spirit: The Sin That Will Not Be Forgiven Jesus' warning about the unforgivable sin has caused confusion and fear for generations. In Matthew 12, after the Pharisees accuse Him of casting out demons by the power of Satan, Jesus responds with a grave rebuke. Every sin and blasphemy can be forgiven, He says, except for blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. That sin will not be forgiven in this age or in the age to come. To understand this, we must consider the context. The religious leaders had witnessed undeniable evidence of the Spirit's power through Christ. A man was healed and delivered right before their eyes. But instead of responding in humility, they hardened their hearts and claimed the work of the Holy Spirit was demonic. This was not a one-time slip. It was a willful rejection of the truth. They saw the Spirit at work and chose to call Him evil. Their hearts were not just mistaken; they were closed off to repentance. That is what makes the sin unforgivable. It is not a single act. It is a settled posture of rejection that cuts a person off from the very One who brings conviction, faith, and renewal. Blaspheming the Holy Spirit means knowingly and persistently attributing the work of God to the enemy, resisting the Spirit's witness to Christ, and rejecting the truth with full knowledge of what is being denied. It is not a careless word or a moment of doubt. It is a defiant rejection of the Spirit's testimony. For believers who fear they may have committed this sin, that very fear is evidence that they have not. The unforgivable sin is not something someone accidentally stumbles into. It is a deliberate and final refusal of God's offer of mercy. Those who grieve over sin, seek forgiveness, and desire to walk with the Spirit are not guilty of blaspheming Him. This warning matters deeply in our age. When discernment becomes slander, when people mock what is genuinely from God because it does not fit their tradition, when leaders reject conviction and call it attack, they risk silencing the Spirit they claim to serve. The warning is not just for the ancient Pharisees. It is for anyone who hardens their heart and declares what is holy to be unclean. We must test

May 13, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class   In this episode we work through 1 John chapters 3 and 4, exploring how John answers the church's confusion about how to know if someone truly knows God. Hiram recaps last week (when Chris filled in) and traces John's two primary evidences of genuine faith: believing rightly about Jesus and loving other Christians. Topics covered include the rise of false teachers (especially early Gnostic ideas), practical ways to “test the spirits,” and Old Testament and New Testament criteria for evaluating prophets and teachers (Deuteronomy, Acts 17, 1 Thessalonians 5, and more). The episode emphasizes examining teachings against Scripture, checking the fruit of a teacher's life and doctrine, and watching for financial or reputational red flags. Key doctrinal focus is on properly identifying Jesus — particularly the necessity of confessing that Jesus “came in the flesh” — and the dangers of denying that truth (the spirit of the antichrist). The host connects this to apostolic authority: listening to apostolic teaching is a mark of being “from God.” Practical application and pastoral counsel include cultivating spiritual discernment without becoming cynical, assuming the best of people while testing teachings, searching the Scriptures like the Bereans, and asking probing questions. The class highlights love as central: God's love is shown in sending his Son and loving one another is the primary evidence that God dwells in us. The Holy Spirit's presence, confidence before the day of judgment, and living out love tangibly (not merely professing it) are presented as decisive signs of belonging to God. Listeners will leave with biblical benchmarks for evaluating teachers and teachings, concrete markers of authentic Christian life (right belief about Christ, mutual love, spiritual fruit, and obedience to apostolic instruction), and encouragement to live a Spirit-led, discerning, and loving faith. Duration 41:27

Welcome to Day 2861 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Testing All Things: Why Respecting Pastors Includes Accountability Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2861 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2861 of our Trek.   The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website   theologyinfive.com.   Today's lesson is titled:  Testing All Things: Why Respecting Pastors Includes Accountability. In many churches today, there is an expectation that pastors be given honor and respect. Scripture affirms this respect, but it does not call for blind obedience. Some leaders suggest that questioning their teaching is a form of rebellion or a refusal to submit to authority. Yet the Bible makes a different claim. Holding leaders accountable to the Word is not undermining their authority, but honoring the authority of Christ to whom they themselves must answer. The real issue is not whether we respect pastors, but whether we allow anyone's words to stand above Scripture. The first segment is: The Commendable Discernment of the Bereans. Acts 17 verse eleven praises the Bereans because they listened eagerly to Paul and then turned to the Scriptures daily to confirm what they had heard. Paul was an apostle who had encountered the risen Christ, yet even he was not beyond examination. The Bereans were not skeptics undermining his authority. They were faithful believers guarding against error. Their discernment was a form of respect, showing that they valued the truth of God's Word above all else. That same principle applies today: questioning what a pastor teaches is not rebellion, but obedience to God's call to weigh everything by Scripture. The second segment is: Testing Teachers and Spirits. John warned the church, “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1). This assumes that false teachers would exist, even within the church. Paul echoed the same truth when he wrote, “Test all things; hold fast what is good” (first Thessalonians 5 verse twenty one). These commands are given to every believer, not just church leaders. If pastors were meant to be unquestioned authorities, these passages would be meaningless. Instead, Scripture shows that discernment is part of faithful obedience. To test teaching is not to reject authority, but to protect it by making sure it remains under Christ. The third segment is: Pastors as Servants, Not Masters Pastors and elders are entrusted with the care of the church. They are to lead, teach, and shepherd, but their authority is not absolute. It only exists when it aligns with the Word of God. Titus 1 verse nine says a leader must hold firmly to the trustworthy word and be able to refute error. James 3 verse one warns that teachers will be judged more strictly, reminding us that they are accountable to God for their words. Even Hebrews 13 verse seventeen, a passage often cited to demand unquestioning obedience, frames leadership in terms of accountability. Leaders “will have to give an account” to God. True authority in the church is never independent. It is always grounded in Scripture and subject to Christ. The fourth segment is: Even Apostles Faced Correction Galatians 2 records a striking moment when Paul confronted Peter publicly for compromising the gospel. Peter, one of Christ's closest disciples, withdrew from Gentile believers out of fear of criticism. Paul opposed him “because he stood condemned.” This was not a rejection of Peter's authority but a defense of the truth he was called to uphold. If even Peter could be corrected for straying from the gospel, then no modern leader can claim to be beyond question. Correction is not rebellion. It is an act of faithfulness that preserves both authority and truth. The fifth segments is: Christ's Warning Against Elevating Leaders Jesus warned His disciples not to seek titles or exalted positions, saying, “You are not to be called Rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers” (Matthew 23, verses eight through ten). Authority belongs to Christ alone. Pastors are not mediators between God and man. That role belongs to Christ. Instead, leaders are to shepherd with humility, “not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5 verses two and three). The danger is not in respecting leaders, but in elevating them above their proper place. When pastors are treated as unquestionable, they cease to reflect the servant leadership of Christ. In Conclusion The Bible never calls believers to submit blindly to a pastor's words. Instead, it calls the church to test all things and to hold fast to what is true. This is not a rejection of authority but a recognition of where true authority lies, in Christ and His Word. Pastors are to be respected, encouraged, and followed when they lead rightly. But they are also accountable, and when their teaching strays, questioning it is an act of obedience to God. A healthy church is not one where questions are silenced, but where questions are welcomed as part of keeping leaders and people alike rooted in Scripture. To test teaching is not to dishonor a pastor, but to honor the Lord who gave His Word as the final standard for all. For additional study, consider these Discussion Questions. Why does Acts 17 verse eleven praise the Bereans for testing Paul's teaching, and how does this show that discernment strengthens rather than rejects authority? How does First John 4 verse one call every believer to responsibility in testing the spirits, and what would happen if this responsibility were ignored in the church? In Galatians 2, Paul rebuked Peter for compromising the gospel. How does this account demonstrate that correction is not rebellion but a way of preserving true authority? What dangers arise when a congregation confuses loyalty to a leader with loyalty to Christ and His Word? How can a church create a culture where questioning teaching is welcomed as faithfulness to God's Word, while still showing respect for pastoral leadership? Join us next Theology Thursday to learn Testing All Things: Why Respecting Pastors Includes Accountability. If you found this podcast insightful, please subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of  ‘Wisdom-Trek,  Creating a Legacy.'                          Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly,   I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal. As we take this Trek of life together, let us always:                      Liv Abundantly.      Love Unconditionally.              Listen Intentionally.             Learn Continuously.               Lend to others Generously.                 Lead with Integrity.                 Leave a Living Legacy Each Day.                 I am Guthrie Chamberlain, reminding you to,   “Keep Moving Forward, Enjoy your journey, and create a great day, every day!  Join me next time for more daily wisdom!

In this continuation of the Spiritual Disciplines series, TS Wright and Joshua Spatha dive deep into the importance of Scripture in the life of every believer. Together they address the growing problem of biblical illiteracy in the modern church and explain why believers must develop a consistent rhythm of reading, studying, and meditating on God's Word.Joshua shares alarming statistics regarding biblical worldview studies and discusses how modern accessibility to Scripture has not necessarily produced deeper understanding or application. The conversation highlights the dangers of emotional Christianity disconnected from biblical truth and stresses the necessity of grounding spiritual experiences in Scripture.The discussion also explores:Why Jesus continually pointed people back to Scripture with the phrase “Have you not read?”The balance between intellectual study and relationship with the Holy SpiritHow the Holy Spirit helps interpret and apply God's WordThe dangers of isolating spirituality from Christian communityThe interconnected nature of Scripture from Genesis to RevelationWhy believers must become Bereans who study the Word for themselvesThe relationship between Spirit and truth in authentic Christian growthTS Wright also reflects on Psalm 119 and discusses how the Word of God serves as a lamp and guide for believers. The episode concludes with a preview of Part 3, which will focus on spiritual warfare and spiritual disciplines connected to it.Key Topics CoveredBiblical literacy crisisSpiritual disciplinesStudying ScriptureThe Holy Spirit and revelationSpirit and truthChristian discipleshipBiblical worldviewExegesis vs. eisegesisChristian community and accountabilitySpiritual growthScriptures MentionedPsalm 119:105John 1Genesis 1RevelationActs 17:11 (Bereans)Matthew 4 (Jesus in the wilderness)Resources & LinksJoshua Spatha's book: Mere SpiritualityJoshua's website: MPerspective.orgConnect with UsCheck out this link to view Kingdom Cross Roads on TV.https://jesussaid.tv/?affiliate=tswright_gccTo 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.

Welcome to Episode #208 of the Way of the Bible podcast. This is our eighth of eight episodes in our Twenty-Sixth mini-series entitled Return to the Sermon on the Mount. On today's episode, we're going to take a break and catch up with where we've been in this mini-series during a Walk on the Beach with DrZ. This morning's walk is like perfection. Water is crystal clear and glistening atop the swales, silently moving ashore. There's a slight north wind that will keep this morning's temperature in the mid-60's till at least 1 PM. And finally, all the Spring breaks for area schools and colleges are over, so we have a tranquil, deserted beach all morning.We did things a little differently this week: a large group of walkers arrived well before sunrise to share a quiet time of prayer and journaling as we sat at individual lap desks with lamps out on the beach. We saw a setting moon and a rising sun on opposite horizons while listening to the rush of waters along the surf line and hearing the word of God speak into our hearts. We've gone in and had a cup of coffee, mingled with the new arrivals, and are back on the beach ready for a walk. So glad you've joined us, we've got a lot to cover.All right, looks like everyone's here and alert. We'll head west with the sun at our back. You can look toward the sunrise now, and appreciate the wonder of a morning on the beach, it never gets old, and be glad not to be walking into that constant low sun angle glare. We'll turn when the Navy arrives. More on that later. We've just completed seven episodes on Jesus' closing instructions to his disciples for his Sermon on the Mount. These instructions are found in Matthew 7, following the meat of his message found in Chapters 5 and 6, which we covered in mini-series 19, 20, and 21. I've spent the last three months meditating on Matthew 7:1-23, preparing the episodes for this mini-series. There is one small section of Matthew 7 left that we'll cover in mini-series 27. This particular chapter of Matthew may be the most important Chapter for a Christian who desires to live out the life in the Spirit, Jesus promised and provided for those who would believe in him. This is not about a religion, a denomination, or da body of individuals gathered in a building or auditorium for what is called church. Jesus provided very specific instructions, encouragement, and warnings in this chapter, found in both the Old and New Testament passages. If we aren't careful, we may continue to do as I've done most of my believing life thinking, there's not much here for me. I admit and confess right now, I could not have been more wrong.Which reminds me to note to all you listening, to confirm everything I say by the scripture. Just because I say something does not supercede the authority of the scriptures. Be good stewards of your faith as were the Bereans in Acts 17:11 – Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.