Podcasts about Bereans

Try the BibleACTS app!: https://bibleacts.goodbarber.app/subscribe Shop "Cut to the Heart" apparel: https://cut2theheart.com In **Acts 17**, Paul continues preaching the gospel across the ancient world—reasoning from the Scriptures, facing opposition, and eventually standing in Athens to proclaim the true God to a culture filled with idols. This chapter gives us a powerful example of how Christians can **know the Scriptures, test what they hear, and communicate the gospel to people who see the world very differently.** In this episode, we discuss: * Paul reasoning from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ * The opposition Paul and Silas faced in Thessalonica * Why the Bereans were called more noble * Examining the Scriptures daily to test what we're taught * Paul's reaction to the idolatry throughout Athens * Sharing the gospel in a culture with completely different beliefs * Paul's famous message about the "unknown god" * God as Creator and His relationship to humanity * God's command for all people everywhere to repent * The resurrection of Jesus and coming judgment * The different responses people had to Paul's preaching Acts 17 challenges believers to be both **grounded in Scripture and prepared to communicate the truth to the culture around us**. Like the Bereans, we should examine what we're taught against God's Word—and like Paul, we should be ready to boldly proclaim Christ wherever God places us. Watch, listen, and grow in your faith — and subscribe for more verse-by-verse Bible teaching, podcast discussions, and biblical commentary. #Acts17 #BibleStudy #Bereans #Paul #UnknownGod #Athens #EarlyChurch #ChristianPodcast #BibleCommentary #VerseByVerse

Today we come to four short instructions that are especially important in a time when we are constantly surrounded bycompeting voices and spiritual claims. Paul writes: “Do not quench theSpirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good.Abstain from every form of evil.”  FirstPaul says: “Do not quench the Spirit.” The word “quench” is normallyused of putting out a fire. The Holy Spirit is often pictured in Scripture inconnection with fire. Paul is saying, “Do not resist or suppress the work ofGod's Spirit in your life.” How can we quench the Spirit? We can ignore Hisconviction. We can knowingly hold on to sin. We can refuse to obey somethingGod has clearly shown us in His Word. We can become spiritually cold andindifferent. The Holy Spirit desires to work in us and through us. Paul tellsus: Don't put out the fire. Thenhe says: “Do not despise prophecies.” In the early church, before theNew Testament Scriptures were completed, God used prophetic utterances in aspecial way to communicate His truth. But Paul immediately gives an importantbalance. Verse 21 says: “Test all things.” In other words: Don't believeeverything simply because someone claims it came from God. That is tremendouslyimportant today. Just because someone says: “God told me…” does notautomatically make their words true. Just because a preacher says somethingwith confidence does not mean it is biblical. Just because something appears onthe Internet, television, or social media doesn't mean we should accept it. Paulsays: “Test all things.” Whatis our test? The Word of God. The Bereans in Acts 17 were commended becausethey received Paul's teaching eagerly but then: “Searched the Scripturesdaily to find out whether these things were so.” Think about that. Theyeven checked the teaching of the apostle Paul against the Scriptures! That is awonderful example for us. Don't simply ask: “Does this sound good?” Ask: “Is itbiblical?” Don't ask only: “Is this preacher popular?” Ask: “Is what he issaying consistent with God's Word?” Don't accept a teaching merely because itmakes you feel good. Test it by Scripture. ThenPaul says: “Hold fast what is good.” Once something has been tested andfound true, don't let it go. There are some truths we should hold with a firmgrip. Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He died for our sins. He rose bodily fromthe grave. Salvation is by grace through faith. The Bible is God's Word. Jesusis coming again. Hold fast. Our culture changes rapidly. God's truthdoes not. Thenverse 22 says: “Abstain from every form of evil.” The Christian lifeinvolves both holding on and letting go. Hold fast to what is good. Stay awayfrom what is evil. Sometimes we ask, “How close can I get to something sinfulwithout actually crossing the line?” That is the wrong question. Paul says: “Abstain.”Move away from evil. Joseph demonstrated that in Genesis 39 when Potiphar'swife tempted him. He didn't stay there and discuss the situation. He fled. SecondTimothy 2:22 says: “Flee also youthful lusts.” There are times when themost spiritual thing we can do is simply get away from the temptation.  Thesefour instructions give us a wonderful pattern for spiritual discernment: Don'tresist the Holy Spirit. Don't reject truth merely because it challenges you. Testeverything by God's Word. Hold tightly to what is good and stay away from whatis evil. We desperately need that kind of discernment today. Let'spray. Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us Your Holy Spirit and Your Word.Help us not to resist or quench the work of Your Spirit in our hearts. Give usdiscernment so that we do not believe every spiritual claim we hear. Teach usto test everything by the truth of Scripture. Help us hold fast to what is goodand faithfully reject every form of evil. In a world filled with confusion andcompeting voices, keep our hearts and minds anchored firmly in Your truth. InJesus' name, we pray. Amen.

False teaching does not always openly deny the gospel. It can sound biblical while quietly distorting the truth of God's Word. In this episode, Dave Jenkins examines Acts 17:11 and the example of the Bereans, who eagerly received teaching while searching the Scriptures to test what they heard. Biblical discernment is neither cynical nor gullible. It is the loving and necessary practice of measuring every spiritual claim by God's sufficient and authoritative Word. Christians are called to know Scripture deeply, evaluate teaching carefully, and remain connected to a biblically faithful local church. The best defense against false teaching is not becoming an expert in every error. It is becoming so grounded in the true gospel of Jesus Christ that error is recognized when it appears. For more from Anchored in the Word, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/anchored-in-the-wordpage/

False teaching does not always openly deny the gospel. It can sound biblical while quietly distorting the truth of God's Word. In this episode, Dave Jenkins examines Acts 17:11 and the example of the Bereans, who eagerly received teaching while searching the Scriptures to test what they heard. Biblical discernment is neither cynical nor gullible. It is the loving and necessary practice of measuring every spiritual claim by God's sufficient and authoritative Word. Christians are called to know Scripture deeply, evaluate teaching carefully, and remain connected to a biblically faithful local church. The best defense against false teaching is not becoming an expert in every error. It is becoming so grounded in the true gospel of Jesus Christ that error is recognized when it appears. For more from Anchored in the Word, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/anchored-in-the-wordpage/

Recognizing and Resisting Subtle False Teaching False teaching is not always obvious. It can use Christian language, quote Scripture, and speak about Jesus while quietly distorting the truth of God's Word. In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins considers Acts 17:11 and the example of the Bereans. They eagerly received teaching, but they also searched the Scriptures to see whether what they heard was true. Their example calls every Christian to test sermons, books, podcasts, and spiritual claims by the authority of God's Word. Listen or Watch Biblical Discernment Rooted in Scripture Biblical discernment is neither cynical nor gullible. It is the loving practice of comparing every teaching with the Word of God. Christians are called to love truth, test what they hear, and grow in confidence as their lives are anchored in Scripture. Dave explains why subtle false teaching is dangerous, why believers need the faithful ministry of the local church, and why the best defense against error is a growing knowledge of the true gospel of Jesus Christ. Scripture References Acts 17:11 1 John 4:1 2 Timothy 3:16–17 Titus 1:9 Romans 12:9 Every false gospel ultimately diminishes Christ or adds to His finished work. The biblical gospel points sinners to Christ alone, who lived without sin, died for sinners, rose again, and saves all who trust in Him by grace through faith. Stay rooted in the Word of God and anchored in Christ. For more from Anchored in the Word please visit our page at Servants of Grace or at our YouTube.

This sermon establishes biblical authority as the foundational distinctive of Baptist faith and practice, asserting that Scripture alone serves as the final and infallible guide for doctrine and church polity. The speaker argues against relative truth and extra-biblical traditions by highlighting the historical reliability, textual evidence, and transformative power of the Bible. Emphasizing the need to know the 'why' behind beliefs, the message encourages believers to personally study and verify teachings against God's Word, following the example of the Bereans. The presentation concludes by demonstrating that Satan attacks Scripture while Jesus defeats temptation through it, reinforcing the necessity of holding fast to divine authority.

Reader: John Hargrave Preacher: Jonathan Smith In Thessalonica, Paul reasons from Scripture that the Messiah had to suffer and rise, and that Jesus is that Messiah (v.3). Some are persuaded; others form a mob. The charge against Paul's community - these people who've turned the world upside down (v.6) - is meant as an accusation. Luke records it as a tribute. In Berea, the response is different: the Bereans receive the word eagerly and examine the Scriptures daily to test it (v.11). Luke calls them more noble, but even there, opposition follows. Red Door is an Anglican Church in Melbourne, Australia.
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Reading Acts 17:10-15 where Paul and Silas come to a town named Berean who are eager to search the Scriptures to test everything and know the truth of the gospel. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Pastor Patrick Rhodes of Bloomer Baptist Church preaching. Should Christians simply believe what a pastor, tradition, or popular teacher says? This message explores the Bereans' faithful example and shows how Scripture equips us to examine every belief with humility, discernment, and confidence. Receive eagerly. Examine carefully. Follow Jesus Faithfully

Believers are called to test every teaching, influence, and worldview against Scripture rather than accepting what merely sounds right or feels good. The message emphasizes that truth is found in Jesus Christ and God's Word, not in culture or personal opinion. Because false teaching can appear convincing while subtly distorting the gospel, Christians are encouraged to follow the example of the Bereans by carefully examining everything in light of Scripture. The remedy for deception is not fear, but remaining firmly grounded in Christ, His truth, obedience, and love. The central question is: "Which voice am I listening to?" as the Spirit of Truth always leads us back to Jesus and His Word.

Being Spiritually Smart: Navigating AIAI is getting smarter—but are we becoming smarter spiritually?In Episode 5, Brian and Laurence explore how Christians can navigate artificial intelligence without losing the thinking, relationships, and spiritual growth God designed us for. Using basketball IQ as a parallel, we discuss preparation, adapting when life doesn't go according to plan, learning from mistakes, and knowing God's Word well enough to recognize what's actually true.From ChatGPT to Allen Iverson, Magic Johnson, the Bereans, and real-life failures, this conversation challenges us to use AI as a tool without allowing it to replace authentic thought, human relationships, or God's Word.Be spiritually smart. Know the game. Know the Word. And always check the source.Faith. Sports. Real Talk.#Jesus #basketball #magic #magicjohnson #chatgpt #ai #claude

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

We walk through why Revelation 17 is one of the toughest chapters to interpret and why faithful readers land in different places. We trace what the text clearly says about Babylon's influence and judgment, then let the chapter press a personal question about idolatry and allegiance. • why Revelation 17 sparks disagreement and how to study it carefully • why the judgment of Babylon reads as added detail rather than a new timeline • what “seated on many waters” means using Revelation 17:15 • how sexual immorality functions as a picture of spiritual adultery and idolatry • four leading views on Babylon: ancient Rome, apostate religion, world system, papal Rome • why the dating of Revelation matters for preterist claims about AD 70 and Domitian • how the woman's luxury masks inner corruption like a whitewashed tomb • what the seven heads and ten horns explicitly mean and why the identities are disputed • the unavoidable end: power unites against Christ and still loses don't believe anything just because you heard a guy on a Bible study podcast say so, but you, just like the Bereans, search the scriptures, you study, and you do the research on your own to prove whether these things that you hear are true. Outro music - Ben FullerSupport the show

Why does the Bible sometimes feel flat when you read it? You are reading the right words, but the weight of those words is not landing. Pastor Josiah says almost every Christian is missing one thing when they open Scripture, and it is not a seminary degree.This sermon continues an August teaching series at Alliance Church on how to read the Bible well. Pastor Josiah opens with an honest story about learning that saying fine to his wife is not a sufficient answer. She wants context. And that turns out to be exactly what most of us are missing when we open the Bible. God did not give us a collection of disconnected inspirational quotes. He gave us Scripture, real books written by real people living in real places, speaking into real cultures. Sometimes we read the right words and still miss the weight of them because we do not understand the world around them.Pastor Josiah anchors this in Nehemiah 8:8, where Ezra reads the law, explains the meaning, and helps the people understand. A simple rhythm shows up. Read it, understand it in its original context, then respond to it.Then Pastor Josiah shows what historical and cultural context actually does with two examples.First. John 13, when Jesus washes the disciples' feet. Every home in first century Judea had a strict social order. The lesser served the greater. When Jesus, the highest person in the room, wraps a towel around his waist and kneels, the entire social order gets flipped upside down. That is why Peter freaks out. Once you feel the culture, you feel the weight.Second. Luke 2, the Christmas story. Most people rush to the manger. He goes back one verse to Caesar Augustus, a ruler Rome literally called savior, whose birth was celebrated as good news, whose reign was associated with peace. Then Luke tells you about a different birth. Not in a palace. In a manger. And angels start announcing good news, a Savior, peace on earth. Luke is asking the whole Roman world one question. Which one is really Lord?He then hands the room practical tools. A study Bible. Commentaries. Blue Letter Bible for looking up original languages. But he is careful to say the tool is never the treasure. The Bible is the treasure. And he lands with the Bereans in Acts 17, who listened eagerly to Paul but searched the Scriptures day after day to test what he taught. If your tradition disagrees with Scripture, Scripture wins. If your favorite pastor disagrees with Scripture, Scripture wins. Every voice bows to God's word.He closes with the story of Ali Hafed and the diamond mine of Golconda. Ali sold his farm searching the world for diamonds, only to die broke, while the buyer of his land found the greatest diamond mine in history right there in his own backyard. The treasure you are looking for is already in the book on your shelf. Open it.

Introduction Ephesians 5:15-17 Be a good evaluator. Proverbs 14:16 Proverbs 6:18 Proverbs 14:12-13 Proverbs 22:3 Acts 17:11 - The Bereans…

“Here is one question every Christian should learn to ask: ‘Where does the Bible say that?' Acts 17 tells us that even when Paul himself preached, the Bereans searched the Scriptures every day to see if what he said was true. What does this mean in the modern age of AI? Today we will find out.In today's study, we will also look at the fact that the Christian faith is reasonable and the importance of examining the Scriptures for ourselves.Acts 17 Bible study guide with companion discussion questions on our website: https://studyandobey.com/inductive-bible-study/acts/acts-17-1-15/Study and Obey's Bible study guides on Amazon -https://amzn.to/48SgPEN(As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)Study and Obey Free Weekly Podcast on Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/study-and-obey/id1571266150Our website of 1000+ practical and free Bible studies - https://studyandobey.comSupport this ministry -https://studyandobey.com/support/25+ Bible study guides for individual or group study on many different books of the Bible - https://studyandobey.com/shop/Sign up for a weekly Bible study to your inbox. 20+ studies to choose from - https://studyandobey.com/weekly-bible-study/Support the show

The Truth About Truth - Pt 1 - Scripture's Truth and Authority In a culture where truth is often treated as relative or subjective, why do we hold the Bible above all other authorities? How can we be confident that Scripture is truly "truth without any mixture of error"? In Part 1 of our series The Truth About Truth, we unpack the foundational anchor of our faith: the divine inspiration and ultimate authority of God's Word. We explore why a God who cannot lie gave us a holy text that is living, active, and fully trustworthy. In Part 1, We Cover: God's Unchanging Character: Why God's omniscience and truthfulness mean He is never wrong (Psalm 119:160, Titus 1:2). The Origin of the Bible: What it means for Scripture to be "breathed out by God" and spoken by men carried along by the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:21). Defending Biblical Authority: 5 compelling reasons we can trust the Bible—including the testimony of Jesus, internal unity, historical archaeology, fulfilled prophecy, and its life-changing power. 5 Pitfalls of Competing Authorities: How believers throughout history (and today) fall into the trap of elevating human traditions, cultural biases, or personal feelings above Scripture. Lessons from Church History: Looking at the Bereans in Acts 17 and Martin Luther's famous stand at the Diet of Worms. Key Takeaway & Challenge: It is essential to believe the Bible is God's Word, but that belief must transform our daily lives. Are you actively reading it? More importantly—are you walking in obedience to it? "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." — Psalm 119:105

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/

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/

Dr. Justin Dancer continues through the book of Acts, focusing on Acts 17:1-33.True security is not found in routines, relationships, finances, or even religious tradition. Acts 17 follows Paul through three cities, each revealing a different place where people anchor their trust. The Thessalonians clung to tradition and missed the very Messiah their Scriptures promised. The Bereans searched God's Word daily with eagerness and found what they were looking for. In Athens, Paul declared one sufficient God to a city drowning in idols, grounding everything in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Real, unshakeable security belongs to every believer, sealed by the Holy Spirit, held in the hands of the Father and the Son, and guaranteed by the Word of God.

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

In this sermon, delivered on graduate recognition Sunday, we explore the hatred of the world for Christians versus faithfulness to the Word among Christians. The Bereans have long been an example to the church of what biblical fidelity looks like, and we go further by examining how we are to be specifically faithful when confronted by so many of the lies of our current culture.

False Prophets 15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. 18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits. 21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'Matthew 7:15-23 In these last days... …there are people...baptized people...who deny Jesus' divinity...deny the whole idea of His atoning sacrifice for sin... Slandering the Triune God by...well, with all sorts of explanations...for who God is...or isn't… They declare the Bible to be just so many fables. These are the wolves in wolves clothing. We can easily tell. If and when a person blasphemes God, he undoubtedly has lost the true faith from his heart...if there was any there…and has turned away… And from those we can protect ourselves…these are easily spotted prophets of the devil. But these are not what Jesus is warning about in our text. No, Jesus is talking about the most dangerous kinds of false prophets…those who look pretty good…do pretty good…preach what seems to be pretty good stuff. When Satan wants to lead Christians astray, he disguises himself as an angel of light. If the wolf wants to get in close to the flock, he wears sheep skins…. True prophets, Jesus is saying, appeal…point to…and insist on God's Word in all the doctrines they proclaim. Yet, even so…a prophet who does so…teaching nothing but pure doctrine from the Bible…still he should not be quickly taken as a true prophet. St. Paul commends the Bereans for listening, but more fort going home to compare all that he said with Holy Scripture. Be wary Jesus says. He may still yet be a wolf in wooly white… As…heretics always appeal to Scripture. Even the devil himself, when trying to temp Jesus says: “For it is written… (Luke 4:10). But our Lord answered him, with Scripture. Just because the Bible is held out…used…pointed to…care is still needed. Let it sit awhile. Think on it. Go home, like the Bereans…check out what the rest of the Bible says on the subject. Mull it over… And soon it will be shown to be what it is…whether the preacher should be believed. And another thing… True prophets do not appoint to themselves. Instead, they are rightly called to their office by the congregation… …and no one ought to reject him because he has appealed to it…just as Paul did to his apostolic office. God has assigned him to it. It is valid. He can and should point that out, when the need arises. But we are not to be deceived here either. Is the office used…as sheep's clothing? It can be. That call and the place he is called from…and the training received can be right and good, but the doctrine can be false. If those who are rightly trained, sent, and called turn out to be wolves, Jesus orders us to flee from them. Now…we have to also say that True prophets walk in godly ways. Examples to their flocks. If we see a preacher walk around in outward piety and holiness…who are friendly toward everyone…gentle toward those who offend him…charitable to the poor…helpful to those who are in misery and misfortune… Constant and faithful in the ministry...he should not be rejected. But we must still be wary…because these too can be a mask. The life of anyone can be blameless before men…but if his philosophy, theology, and world-view be off…not Scriptural… What good is that to himself or to others? Good men go to hell. Good men lead others there too. The best of them. If they do not have Christ, and Him crucified and risen, and proclaim this…believe this…then all the rest amounts to nothing. All the rest is only good if it comes from a true and right faith…from right teaching. If not, a wolf lurks inside. … and dangerous because people will be taken in and tempted to follow somebody like this. All the best intensions of everyone…of course… but still it all points to the same place. Damnation. What about the gifted preacher? God can and will give great gifts to His prophets. They can shake people out of slumber by the thunder of the Law. They can soothe and console…with the sweet Gospel. They can show their knowledge of all the doctrines of the Bible. They may also be great apologists and refute all the arguments the world can throw at them. But again…false prophets also can have great natural gifts. Ever hear Hitler speak? Preach is more like it. Even if you know no German… He moved people! He still does. There are modern Nazis…and they watch their master…are motivated by him. Be cautious. No matter how great they appear…do not let yourselves be deceived. So now what? This is great that our Lord has warned us, but what are we to do? What's to be done? How do we proceed with caution? God's Word. Read it. Study it. Memorize it. Talk about it. Discuss it. Do the same with our Lutheran Confession in the Book of Concord. Yes…question. Question what you hear….what you see out there…what you see and hear...even in this place… …so really, don't just take my word for it. You are the Baptized Children of God, who have the gift of the Holy Spirit. He promises to bring light to our path…to be here to guide and lead. Jesus is your Savior. Yes, even from these tricksters and charlatans. Even from our own stupidity. He is the Savior of the church. He does not pull us out of sin and vice and just dump us at the front door of a church…and leave us on our own. No, because He knows...and we all know that His church gets into messes. His church gets confused and misled. In fact, that is where the devil attacks the most. He wants us back. He is miffed that God saved us from him. So, we need saving even more, then! And that is what Jesus promised to do…is doing…and will do. We are not left as orphans. We are never without Him. He will not let anyone take us out of His hand. But He wants us to have and know…to use and to repeat what He says. He allows these false prophets to come and speak...so that we do not rely on our own abilities, but rather are sent right back to His Word. That we find our comfort there. Our assurance there. From it we come to know Him, in truth and purity...and find that we always are dependent...are getting what we need from this...from Him…alone. This is His way with us. His Word is the source…and the means by which He does all things…especially in His Church. By it He puts on us the whole armor of God—and it's in here...this is done...by hearing...by being washed and then eating and drinking His Word… Him… And so, His Word is for us the very source and the means by which we also are to do all things. Make it your own. Come and hear. Listen. Imbibe. Breathe it all in...and then breathe it out. Live in it and by it, because He has and is the Word of Eternal life, given for you and for me. Amen.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.