Podcast appearances and mentions of christ himself

This episode addresses a tension many believers feel but rarely understand: why truth, rules, and even Scripture can feel lifeless or oppressive. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 3, Dr. Jim explains that the issue is not the Word of God, but the absence of dependence on the Spirit of God. True Christianity is not self-powered obedience but Spirit-empowered life.Topics DiscussedThe meaning of “the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life”Why truth without the Spirit produces frustration rather than transformationHow rules and standards provoke rebellion when divorced from graceThe difference between self-effort Christianity and Spirit-enabled obedienceWhy the solution is not rejecting the Word, but relying on the SpiritKey TakeawaysThe Bible is never the problem; dependence on self is.Obedience without the Spirit leads to defeat, not freedom.The Spirit gives life to truth, enabling joyful, willing obedience.Christianity only works when Christ Himself is the source of power.Real freedom comes through surrender and faith, not self-discipline alone. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

In this Faith Friday edition of Morning Manna, we begin by observing Communion, remembering the finished work of Christ before turning to His searching words in John 6:26–31. Jesus confronts the crowd with a piercing truth: they sought Him not for who He is, but for what He provided. Their hunger was physical, not spiritual. As the lesson centers on John 6:26, Rick Wiles and Doc Burkhart explore the difference between chasing temporary satisfaction and seeking the true Bread from heaven. This passage challenges believers to examine their motives, move beyond signs and provision, and pursue Christ Himself—the only One who satisfies hunger that bread can never fill. Teachers: Rick Wiles and Doc Burkhart You can partner with us by visiting MannaNation.com, calling 1-888-519-4935, or by mail at PO Box 399 Vero Beach, FL 32961. MEGA FIRE reveals the ancient recurring cycles of war and economic collapse that have shaped history for 600 years. These patterns predict America is now entering its most dangerous period since World War II. Get your copy today! www.megafire.world Get high-quality emergency preparedness food today from American Reserves! www.AmericanReserves.com It's the Final Day! The day Jesus Christ bursts into our dimension of time, space, and matter. Now available in eBook and audio formats! Order Final Day from Amazon today! www.Amazon.com/Final-Day Apple users, you can download the audio version on Apple Books! www.books.apple.com/final-day Purchase the 4-part DVD set or start streaming Sacrificing Liberty today. www.Sacrificingliberty.com

*Listen to the Show notes and podcast transcript with this multi-language player. Summary The discussion focuses on becoming living epistles—believers whose lives and words embody the living Christ. Using the parable of the wise and foolish virgins as a foundation, the speakers emphasize that maintaining the oil of the Spirit is essential to engage with the Bridegroom. True transformation and ministry flow not from intellect or revelation alone, but from impartation—the living Word of Christ spoken through a heart filled with the Holy Spirit. The group also reflects on building upon the true foundation of Christ, allowing the Spirit—not human leadership—to guide this maturing movement. The conversation concludes with an acknowledgment of God's love, grace, and free will given to all, highlighting that every person is being drawn to deeper relationship and maturity in Him. Show Notes • The parable of the five wise and five foolish virgins illustrates spiritual readiness through maintaining the anointing (oil). • Revelation is valuable, but the goal is relationship and impartation, not just knowledge. • Living epistles are those who speak Christ—their words create, impart, and transform. • The true Word of the Lord brings fruit; if no fruit appears, it's time for growth, not condemnation. • Foundation in Christ remains essential—believers must build upon it, not start over. • The movement today is leaderless in human terms but guided by the Spirit of Christ, the true Apostle and Head. • As each person matures, roles shift—sometimes shepherd, sometimes sheep—all under grace. • Even those focused on basic salvation messages have their purpose in God's plan. • Spiritual growth comes through hunger and choice—a willingness to move beyond the familiar. • God's plan is inclusive—He gives everyone opportunity to come into the knowledge of the Lord. • We are living in the day of impartation, where transformation happens through the Spirit's presence and spoken Word. Quotes • “Without the oil—the anointing, the Holy Spirit—there's no connection.” — Ken • “The true living epistles aren't revelators or expositors. They are those who speak Christ in the earth.” — Ron • “If a true living epistle speaks to you, you're going to change if your heart's open.” — Ron • “Be careful how you build on that foundation.” — Ken (quoting Paul) • “We're leaning on the Spirit to lead us. The true apostle is Christ Himself, the Head.” — Mike • “It's because we're solid in that foundation that we can go higher in revelation.” — Lois • “Every heart has to decide—am I hungry enough to seek out something different?” — Ron • “This is the day of Spirit—the year of Spirit—we are there.” — Ken Scriptural References • Matthew 25:1–13 — The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins; keeping oil (the Spirit) to engage the Bridegroom. • 2 Corinthians 3:2–3 — You are our letter, written in our hearts, known and read by all men... written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God. • John...

In this Epiphany sermon on Ephesians 3:3–6, The Mystery Made Known, we hear the good news that what was once hidden has now been fully revealed in Christ Jesus. Epiphany is not about human discovery, but divine revelation. God makes known His saving purpose: that Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ through the Gospel. This sermon proclaims Christ as the Light who comes not only for Israel, but for the nations—for sinners once far off and now brought near by His blood.From the Magi at Bethlehem to the Church gathered today, God reveals His mystery through Word and Sacrament. This is a deeply confessional Lutheran sermon, emphasizing Law and Gospel, Christ's saving work alone, and the unity of the Church grounded not in culture or merit, but in Christ Himself. You will hear how Epiphany confronts human pride, exposes division, and comforts troubled consciences with the certainty of grace.This sermon is ideal for those seeking faithful LCMS preaching, Epiphany theology, and Christ-centered proclamation rooted in Holy Scripture (ESV).Support this ministry here:

Do Christians still have to keep the Sabbath? Is the Sabbath a command Christians are breaking, or did something change with Jesus? In this video, we take a deep dive into what the Bible actually teaches about the Sabbath, the Old Covenant, and how Christ fulfills God's promise of rest.Many new Christians, Jesus-curious seekers, and even long-time believers struggle with questions about the Sabbath, Sunday worship, and whether Christians are still bound to Old Testament laws. We'll explore key passages from Scripture, including the teachings of Jesus and the apostle Paul, to show how the Sabbath was part of the Old Covenant and how Christ Himself is now our true and lasting rest.If you're wrestling with faith, deconstruction, church traditions, or confusion about Christian doctrine, this video is for you. Whether you're Gen Z, a skeptic exploring Christianity, or a believer wanting to strengthen your faith, this discussion will help clarify the gospel, grace, and freedom found in Christ.If you're searching for biblical truth, Christian theology explained simply, or answers to hard faith questions, you're in the right place. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and join the conversation in the comments.Got any questions or topics you'd like to hear about? You can email us at ⁠tydhcpod@gmail.comLike our content? Consider helping us grow through Patreon, a follow, or subscribe!Leave a rating on whatever platform you listen on and write some nice commentsYOUTUBE ⁠here⁠PATREON  ⁠here⁠INSTAGRAM: ⁠www.instagram.com/thingsyoudonthearinchurchpod⁠YOUTUBELike our content? Consider helping us through Patreon, a follow, or subscribe!INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/thingsyoudonthearinchurchpodSPOTIFY:https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ttha9t5PEg2vLVKEbzRABPATREON:https://www.patreon.com/TYDHCGot a question? You can email us at tydhcpod@gmail.com

Here St. Isaac does not define virtues as behaviors but as states of being before God. He strips away external markers and leaves the soul alone with truth. What he offers is not a ladder of accomplishments but a geography of the heart. A stranger, he says, is not one who has left a place, but one whose mind has been estranged from all things of life. This is the quiet violence of the Gospel: “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world” (Jn 17:16). Estrangement here is not contempt for creation but freedom from possession. Abba Arsenius fled Rome, but what he truly fled was the tyranny of relevance. To become a stranger is to consent to being unnecessary. It is to let the world continue without you and discover that God remains. The mourner is not a melancholic soul but a hungry one. He lives, Isaac says, in hunger and thirst for the sake of his hope in good things to come. This is the blessed mourning of the Beatitudes, the ache that refuses consolation because it has tasted something eternal. St. John Climacus calls mourning “a sorrow that is glad,” because it is oriented toward the Kingdom. It is grief baptized by hope. Such a soul does not despise joy; it waits for the only joy that cannot be taken away. Then Isaac dares to say what a monk truly is. Not one who has taken vows, not one who wears a habit, but one who remains outside the world and is ever supplicating God to receive future blessings. The monk stands at the edge of time and begs. His posture is eschatological. He lives as though the promises are real. This is why the monk's wealth is not visible. It is the comfort that comes of mourning and the joy that comes of faith, shining secretly in the mind's hidden chambers. Christ Himself names this hiddenness when He says, “Your Father who sees in secret will reward you” (Mt 6:6). The true treasure does not announce itself. It warms quietly. Mercy, too, is redefined. A merciful man is not one who performs selective kindness but one who has lost the ability to divide the world mentally into worthy and unworthy. This is the mercy of God Himself, who “makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good” (Mt 5:45). St. Isaac elsewhere says that a merciful heart burns for all creation: for humans, animals, demons, even for the enemies of God. Such mercy is not sentimental. It is cruciform. It is the heart stretched until it resembles Christ's own. And then Isaac turns to chastity, and again he refuses reduction. Virginity is not merely bodily restraint but an interior reverence. One who feels shame before himself even when alone. This is a startling phrase. It speaks of a soul that lives before God even when no one is watching. Shame here is not self-loathing but awe. It is the trembling awareness that one's thoughts are already prayers, or blasphemies, before the face of God. Therefore Isaac is unsparing: chastity cannot survive without reading and prolonged prayer. Without immersion in the Word, the imagination becomes a wilderness of unguarded images. Without prayer, the heart has no shelter. Abba Evagrius taught that thoughts are not defeated by force but by replacement—by filling the mind with divine fire. The Jesus Prayer, Scripture read slowly, the psalms murmured in weakness, these do not merely resist impurity; they transfigure desire itself. What unites all these sayings is this: St. Isaac is describing a soul that has accepted vulnerability. God has permitted the soul to be susceptible to accidents: not as punishment, but as mercy. Weakness becomes the doorway. Hunger becomes the guide. Shame becomes watchfulness. Mourning becomes wealth. Nothing here is safe, and nothing here is superficial. This is not an ethic for the strong. It is a path for those who have consented to be poor before God. In the end, St. Isaac is teaching us how to stand unarmed in the presence of the Kingdom; estranged from the world, aching for God, clothed in quiet prayer, and guarded not by our strength but by grace that shines unseen in the depths of the heart. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:04:33 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 170 paragraph 7 Homily Six 00:04:45 Angela Bellamy: What is the book titled please? 00:04:56 Angela Bellamy: Reacted to "What is the book tit..." with

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/123125.cfmFather Chris Alar, MIC, confronts a hard but urgent truth drawn from Sacred Scripture and the teaching authority of the Church: the Antichrist is not only a future figure, but a present spirit at work in the world. Reflecting on the First Letter of John, Fr. Chris explains that Scripture speaks of both a singular Antichrist still to come and many “antichrists” already active—those who have departed from Christ by rejecting His Church (1 Jn 2:18–19; NABRE).This deception is subtle. It often disguises itself as independence, spirituality without authority, or self-made salvation. Yet the Catechism warns that before Christ's return, the Church must endure a final trial marked by religious deception that offers false solutions at the price of apostasy (Catechism of the Catholic Church §675). To deny the Church established by Christ is to deny Christ Himself, even when His name is still spoken.Father Chris reminds us that the Church is not man-made, but God-made—founded by Christ, entrusted to the Apostles, and preserved through apostolic authority (Mt 16:18; NABRE). Though imperfect in her human members, she remains divinely protected in her mission. Like Noah's Ark, the Church may feel uncomfortable at times, but outside of it there is only drowning.The answer to confusion is not retreat, but fidelity. Through Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist, God sustains His remnant and strengthens them to remain faithful witnesses. Evil has already been defeated, but souls are still at stake. Our task is not fear, but perseverance—praying, teaching, and living the truth so that others may return to Christ through His Church.“Anyone who knows God listens to us” (1 Jn 4:6; NABRE).To deepen your understanding of the Sacraments Christ gave His Church, explore Understanding the Sacraments at ShopMercy.org. ★ Support this podcast ★

Summary After Christmas fades and decorations come down, many of us instinctively begin looking ahead to what's next. In this sermon, Michael Easley reminds us that this longing is not accidental—it is eternal. God has placed eternity in our hearts, wiring us to anticipate His ultimate deliverance. Tracing Scripture from Genesis to Revelation, Dr. Easley explores the biblical theme of divine visitation—God personally stepping into history to accomplish redemption. From Joseph's deathbed confidence in God's future deliverance, to Zechariah's Spirit-filled praise at the birth of John the Baptist, Scripture reveals a consistent hope: God will visit His people to save them. Luke's Gospel declares that God has “visited us and accomplished redemption,” using a word that means more than appearing—it means showing up to act. In the New Testament, divine visitation demands a response. Some reject the Deliverer, while others recognize Him as the fulfillment of God's promises. The sermon concludes by shifting our focus away from obsessing over end-times signs and toward eager expectation of Christ Himself. Our confidence does not rest in circumstances or experiences, but in God's unchanging Word. Faithful living means trusting God's promises, anticipating Christ's return, and persevering with hope—knowing the Deliverer will come again. Takeaways God has placed eternity in our hearts, causing us to long for what lies beyond this world. Divine visitation in Scripture means God personally stepping in to accomplish deliverance. From Joseph to Zechariah, God's people trusted His promises even when fulfillment seemed distant. The New Testament emphasizes our response to God's visitation—rejection or faith-filled recognition. Scripture calls believers to watch for Christ Himself, not obsess over signs of His return. Our assurance and hope rest not in experience, but in the unchanging truth of God's Word. To read the book of Luke, click here. Click here for other Michael Easley Sermons.

Friends of the Rosary,Today, Sunday, December 28, the Fourth Day within the Octave of Christmas, is the Feast of the Holy Family, an invitation to every Christian family to live in harmony and in prayer, which are the pledges of joy and union.At the end of the past century, Pope Leo XIII promoted this feast to present the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as the model of all Christian families.Although they were the holiest family that ever lived, or ever will live, on earth, as they were God's closest friends, they had more than their share of this world's troubles. Today's Gospel from Matthew 2:13-15; 19-23 tells us of some of these earthly woes and sufferings.They had just settled in Bethlehem, and the Baby Jesus was only a few months old when, to avoid his murder at the hands of Herod, they had to flee from Bethlehem and become displaced persons in a foreign and pagan land.This story is a message of encouragement and consolation for every one of us. If the Holy Family suffered such trials and hardships, we should be ready to bear the trials that God sends us for our own eternal welfare.The devotion to the Holy Family was born in Bethlehem, together with the Baby Jesus. The shepherds went to adore the Child and, at the same time, to honor His family. Later, in a similar way, the three wise men came from the East to adore and give honor to the newborn King with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh that His family would safeguard.Christ Himself showed His devotion to His mother and foster father by submitting Himself, with infinite humility, to the duty of filial obedience towards them.Today's celebration demonstrates Christ's humility and obedience regarding the fourth commandment, whilst also highlighting the loving care that His parents exercised in keeping Him.Let us imitate the Holy Family in our Christian families, and our families will be a prefiguration of the heavenly family. We say a prayer dedicating your family to the Holy Family. Also, we pray for all families to uphold the sanctity of the marriage bond, today under attack.Traditionally, the Feast of the Holy Innocents is celebrated on December 28th. Still, since that falls on a Sunday this year, many Western churches, like those in the Archdiocese of NY, observe it on Monday, December 29, 2025, to commemorate the baby boys killed by King Herod, honoring them as the first martyrs for Christ.Ave MariaCome, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkNew Upgrade! Enhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• December 28, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

We say Christmas is about Jesus—but rarely do we stop and ask who He truly is. In this episode, we move past sentiment and tradition and take a serious look at the theological weight of Christ Himself.

Christmas is the story of God coming to us at just the right time, not because we were ready, but because He was.In Jesus, God dealt with sin, ended our distance, and announced peace once and for all.And that peace is not fragile or temporary—it is Christ Himself, with us and for us.

Having finished teaching His disciples, Jesus now proceeds toward the cross and the resurrection. In Mat.26:6-13, Matthew describes an incident which occurred in the house of Simon the leper in the village of Bethany.This happens two days before Jesus is crucified.During His time there, Jesus resolves a supposed conflict between the disciples and their misguided priority concerning the expenditure of costly perfume. They all deemed it a waste to anoint the savior with the expensive perfume.Jesus explained that this perfume was a pre burial anointing. He knew He was going to die and His betrayal was near at hand.The priority of value should be placed on Christ Himself. He should have first place in all things.He is worthy of our sacrifices.Join us on the Unchanging Word Bible Broadcast as Dr. Mitchell shares Jesus from Matthew 26:6-13.

In this Advent message, we turn to John 1:14–18 to behold Jesus Christ—the eternal Word made flesh, full of grace and truth. This sermon reminds us that the Christian life doesn't begin with grace and then move on without it. From first to last, we live by drawing from the fullness of Christ: grace upon grace.Discover how Jesus is greater than all who came before Him, supplies what we can never provide for ourselves, fulfills what the law could not, and makes the invisible God fully known. Whether you're weary, striving, or simply in need of renewal, this message calls us to return again and again to Christ Himself—the living source of our life and hope.Mission Church — www.missionlasvegas.com

In the busyness of Christmas, we often move from task to task, celebration to celebration—without ever truly receiving the most important gift of the season. In this reflective episode, Ron shares a deeply personal story of a forgotten gift left unopened on his desk—a small brown bag with his name on it, quietly waiting amid the rush of end-of-year leadership responsibilities. What begins as a simple memory unfolds into a powerful spiritual metaphor. Through a surprising note tucked inside a devotional book, Ron is reminded how easily we admire the wrapping of Christmas—songs, traditions, decorations—while overlooking the invitation of Christ Himself. This episode gently challenges us to consider: Have we accepted the gift of Christ, or have we set it aside for "later"? The story echoes with grace, reminding us that Jesus doesn't force His way into our lives. He waits—patiently, personally—for us to say yes. Whether you're in the middle of your busiest season or sitting in a rare moment of stillness, this Christmas reflection invites you to pause, reflect, and open the only gift that truly matters. The gift has already been given. The question is—will you receive it?

Our Lady's Promise: I Remain With You This Homily weaves together . . . . . . the Visitation (Luke 1:39–45), the mystery of Advent, and the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe, revealing a single, unifying truth: the Lord is always on the way to His people. God does not arrive once and withdraw; He continually comes, drawing near in mercy, joy, and life. This dynamic is first revealed when Mary, bearing Christ within her, hastens to Elizabeth. Though unseen, Christ Himself arrives, and His presence awakens joy, life, and praise. The leap of John the Baptist becomes the first fruit of salvation's nearness. He Continually Comes That same pattern unfolds across history, most vividly at Tepeyac in 1531, where Our Lady visits a wounded people and a struggling Church. Through Juan Diego, Mary brings Christ's joy into barrenness, transforming despair into life. The miracles . . . healing, roses blooming from stone, and the enduring image on the tilma . . . unfold in sequence, culminating in a sign that abides, just as Mary remained with Elizabeth and Christ remains with His Church. Throughout, Mary is revealed as the one through whom Christ comes, not only once, but always . . . into hearts, cultures, and history itself. Where He arrives, life stirs, joy breaks forth, and meaning is restored. Listen more to Our Lady's Promise: I Remain With You ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ A Quote from the Homily Imagine a greeting so powerful that its words don't matter. . . The voice of the woman with the joy of salvation growing in her womb speaks in such a tonality that that joy penetrates the life of another. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Art Work The Virgin of Mercy or Madonna della Misericordia.: Italian Painter: Piero della Francesca: 1462 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Why was this image selected: Mary stands sheltering the faithful beneath her mantle, a powerful visual expression of abiding presence. Like the tilma that endures and Mary's three-month stay with Elizabeth, the painting reflects the promise: I am not going anywhere.

For centuries, God was silent. The world groaned under fear, emptiness, and disappointment. Herod ruled with paranoia. Rome ruled with power, and hope felt like fiction. But then, joy broke through. Matthew 2 tells us the story of the Magi, seekers from the east, whose joy began not with arrival but with longing. When they finally encountered Jesus face to face, joy exploded. And that joy didn't just comfort; it changed them. They worshiped. They gave. And they took a different road home. That's the power of joy—not happiness based on what's happening, but the unshakable presence of Christ Himself. Joy threatens every false king. Joy grows as Jesus becomes clearer. And joy changes everything. Especially us.

Grace has a way of clearing the room, not because it is unclear, but because it refuses to be controlled or earned. When every system collapses and all that remains is Christ Himself, the question becomes unavoidable - “Lord, to whom shall we go?” And the answer still stands: there is no alternative, because only Jesus speaks life that lasts.

The sermon centers on Zechariah's prophetic declaration at the naming of his son John, marking the end of a 400-year prophetic silence and the public inauguration of God's redemptive plan. Through Zechariah's words, the core message emerges: God's grace, revealed in the coming Messiah, is the sole source of salvation, redemption, and hope for humanity, who are by nature enslaved to sin, despair, and self-worship. The prophecy affirms that salvation is not earned but secured by God's covenant faithfulness—fulfilled in Christ, the horn of salvation from David's line—whose substitutionary atonement is foretold in Scripture from Genesis to Isaiah. The sermon emphasizes that assurance of salvation rests not on human effort but on faith in God's promises, particularly the Abrahamic covenant, where belief in God's word is the mark of true regeneration. Ultimately, redemption is not merely forgiveness but the lifelong, joyful purpose of serving God in holiness and righteousness, culminating in the eternal beatific vision of knowing and delighting in Christ Himself.

The Christmas season has a way of filling our homes with warmth and wonder—but what if your holiday décor could do more than make your home look festive? What if it could become a beautiful, daily reminder of the Gospel for your family—and especially for your girl? In this special Christmas message, American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Emeritus Patti Garibay invites listeners to rediscover the meaning behind the decorations we often unpack without a second thought. Instead of centering December around tinsel, lights, and checklists, this conversation encourages you to fill your home with symbols that point your daughter to the Savior who came near.  Through thoughtful reflection and practical ideas, this episode explores how your family can create a holiday environment that disciples your girl right where she lives. Whether it's a nativity set placed intentionally, Scripture woven into ornaments, or simple traditions that direct your girl's heart toward Jesus, you'll find fresh inspiration to transform your décor into a teaching tool—one that speaks quietly but consistently of hope, promise, and God's redeeming love.  As the busyness of December pulls our attention in a thousand directions, this episode gently reminds parents to anchor their home in truth that outlasts the season. When your daughter looks around the room, what does she see? May she see more than glitter and garland—may she see a family committed to celebrating Christ Himself. With encouragement that blends creativity, Scripture, and practicality, you'll walk away with ideas your family can use immediately and a deeper sense of purpose for the atmosphere you cultivate.  Scripture References:  Luke 2:10–11: The joyful announcement of Christ's birth.  Deuteronomy 6:6–7: Impressing God's truths on the hearts of our children.  Isaiah 9:6: The prophecy pointing to the coming Messiah.  Three Things to Remember:  Your décor can be more than beautiful—it can be a discipleship tool.  Small, meaningful symbols can gently shape your daughter's understanding of Jesus.  A Christ-centered home environment helps your girl see the season through the lens of truth, not culture.  Visit raisinggodlygirls.com for more encouragement and faith-based parenting tools.    Learn how to find or start an American Heritage Girls Troop in your community at americanheritagegirls.org.  

In this week's Let's Talk About This, Fr. Robert McTeigue, S.J. reflects on tradition, warning against celebrations that keep the sentiment while sidelining Christ Himself. Drawing on Scripture, the Church Fathers, and emotive Christmas poetry, he identifies the most decisive event of human history. He concludes with Weekend Readiness, preparing you for Sunday Mass. Show Notes Are Your Christmas Traditions Fire or Ashes?  The O Antiphons: A Sacred Countdown to Christmas  Christmas Traditions:  Ashes or Fire  Can't Go Home for Christmas? | Fr. Robert McTeigue, S.J. Advent: Time to Take Out the Trash! (Fr. Robert McTeigue, S.J.) iCatholic Mobile The Station of the Cross Merchandise - Use Coupon Code 14STATIONS for 10% off | Catholic to the Max Read Fr. McTeigue's Written Works! "Let's Take A Closer Look" with Fr. Robert McTeigue, S.J. | Full Series Playlist Listen to Fr. McTeigue's Preaching! | Herald of the Gospel Sermons Podcast on Spotify Visit Fr. McTeigue's Website | Herald of the Gospel Questions? Comments? Feedback? Ask Father!

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: John 2-4 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In today's episode, Hunter invites you to join him on this December 18th journey through the Scriptures as we approach the end of the year. Together, you'll dive into John chapters 2 through 4, witnessing Jesus' miraculous signs—from turning water into wine at the wedding feast in Cana, to healing the official's son with just a word, and his transformative conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well. More than just recounting stories, Hunter encourages us to look for the deeper signs that all point to Christ as the source of hope, joy, and transformation in our lives. As we move through this Advent season, Hunter reminds us that the incarnation of Jesus is both a sign of God's immeasurable love and a statement of our value in His eyes. The episode wraps up with a time of prayer, reflection, and gratitude for the Daily Radio Bible community. Whether you're new to the podcast or a longtime listener, today's reading and reflections are sure to encourage your heart and help you see Jesus afresh in this season. So grab your Bible, settle in, and experience a transformative encounter with the God who is always with you. TODAY'S DEVOTION: All the signs are pointing to Him. We see it at the wedding feast, where Jesus turns water into wine. And we see it again in the healing of the government official's son—where, simply by Jesus' word, a boy is healed, a fever is gone, and a prayer is answered. Every sign in these stories draws our attention to Christ Himself. All the signs, not just in these chapters but throughout the gospel, are pointing to Him as the source and fulfillment of our hope. As we move through this Advent season, the days leading up to Christmas, may we remember that every sign, every symbol, every hope is pointing to Jesus. He is our wedding feast. He is the One who turns our ordinary water into extraordinary wine. He is the One who responds to the deep cries of our hearts. In Him, our longings meet their answer. The Gospel of John reveals Him, over and over again, in powerful signs and wonders—but those signs are not the point. They are arrows directing us to the One who gives life. During Advent, may our eyes and hearts be open to recognize Him afresh. Emmanuel—God with us—has come. He has not only identified with us by taking on our humanity but has also embraced us so that we might share in the very life and joy He has with the Father, through the Spirit. This is the depth of His love, and in that love, we find our true value—how deeply we are loved and cherished by God. Let us pray for eyes to see the signs and hearts to believe what they show us: that all is pointing to Jesus, to His love, His sacrifice, His inclusion of us into God's very life. That is my prayer for my own soul, for my family, and for you. May we see all the signs, and may they always lead us to Him. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

The incarnation is one of the most familiar doctrines in Christianity—and yet one of the most overlooked. This week, Dr. John Snyder is joined again by Jordan Thomas to slow down, look closely, and recover the awe that Scripture invites us to feel as we consider the eternal Son taking on human flesh. Last week they walked through key biblical passages on the incarnation. This week they turn to the profound reflections of Isaac Ambrose in his classic work “Looking Unto Jesus.” The book can be difficult to find today, but we've linked an ebook edition and a print-on-demand copy in the show notes. You can also monitor the Reformation Heritage Books website and sign up for updates when it comes back into print. Ambrose is deeply helpful here because he lifts our eyes to the person of Christ Himself—and to all the benefits that flow from Him into the life of every believer. As we move through this Advent season and fix our hearts on the incarnate Christ, we pray that this episode—and the timeless insights of Isaac Ambrose—will strengthen your faith and warm your soul. Show Notes: 25 Meditations on the Incarnation: https://shop.mediagratiae.org/pages/advent-meditations Isaac Ambrose Looking Unto Jesus ebook: https://www.monergism.com/looking-unto-jesus-book-1-ebook physical: https://www.amazon.com/Looking-Unto-Jesus-Everlasting-Gospel/dp/1166391787 Good Tiding of Great Joy by Charles Spurgeon https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/devotionalsdaily-readings/good-tidings-of-great-joy/ Jordan recommends this Christmas Devotional: https://grace-ebooks.com/library/J. C. Philpot/JCP On The Sacred Humanity of The Blessed Redeemer.pdf Christ Our Treasure: https://shop.mediagratiae.org/products/christ-our-treasure-enjoying-the-preeminence-of-jesus-in-the-local-church-dvd-streaming

This sermon explores the profound theological truths embedded in Galatians 4:4-5, examining why God sent His Son into the world. The message centers on the core statement that "God sent His Son to redeem those who were under the law," unpacking four essential reminders about Christ's coming. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus' birth was not accidental but perfectly timed in God's sovereign plan, that He came as truly human while remaining truly God, that He fulfilled the law through righteous obedience, and that through Him believers receive adoption as sons and daughters of God. Pastor Joe Fant challenges the congregation to understand that salvation is not merely about being declared righteous (justification) but also about being brought into God's family (adoption), giving believers a personal relationship with God as "Abba, Father." The message concludes by affirming that Christians possess an "alien righteousness"—the righteousness of Christ Himself—rather than any self-generated goodness. Key Points: Jesus came at the right moment—when the fullness of time had come, perfectly orchestrated politically (Roman peace and roads), theologically (all Old Testament prophecies and types complete), and historically (unified language and transportation systems) Jesus came in real humanity—truly born of a woman, experiencing complete human suffering, rejection, pain, and loss, yet without sin through the power of the Holy Spirit Jesus came in righteous obedience—born under the law to fulfill it perfectly, doing what no human could do, keeping every requirement of God's law Jesus offers received adoption—believers are adopted as sons (both men and women receive full inheritance), brought from the courtroom of justification to the living room of God's family The law was given to show humanity's inability to save themselves, pointing them to their need for Christ God's timing is always perfect—He is never early and never late in His providential plan Christians have a real man in heaven (Jesus) interceding for them who understands their human experience Believers possess the righteousness of Christ, not their own self-righteousness Scripture Reference: Galatians 3:23—4:7 (primary focus on Galatians 4:4-5) 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Psalm 51:5 Romans 3:10-12 Ecclesiastes 7:20 Luke 1:34-35 Galatians 3:21-22 Hebrews 2:11 Hebrews 4:15-16 Deuteronomy 21:23

As Jesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and Generations, I testify of the truths revealed in the Doctrine and Covenants 137–138. I witness that the heavenly celestial kingdom is real, that salvation is offered to all of God's children, and that Christ Himself setup a ministry in the spirit world following His death on the cross.I testify that the work of redemption is ongoing, eternal, and universal. Just as my apostolic brother Peter testified that Christ “preached unto the spirits in prison” (1 Peter 3:19), I affirm that this ministry continues today. The revelations found in these sections of the Doctrine and Covenants confirm to the humble of heart that God's mercy extends beyond the grave.As an Apostolic Witness of Jesus Christ, I testify that He is Alive Today, and that He is the Redeemer of both the living and the dead.In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.D. Todd Harrison, Apostle of Jesus ChristJesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and GenerationsYear Six of Global Apostolic MinistryCommissioned by Jesus Christ (like the Apostle Paul-Galatians 1:1)The Most-Followed LDS Religious Leader on Facebook (1 Corinthians 9:1–3)

Send us a textWhere does the soul find true satisfaction? How can we know we are truly saved? And what does lasting joy in Christ actually look like?In this Christmas Advent devotional, Cass from Her Theology introduces us to Anne Dutton — one of the most prolific and courageous female theologians of the 18th century. Born in 1692, Dutton wrote extensively to encourage believers struggling with doubt, fear, and assurance of faith.In this episode, Cass reads from a powerful letter Anne Dutton wrote to a brother in the faith who was wrestling with whether he truly belonged to Christ. With remarkable warmth and theological depth, Dutton explains how a changed heart, new desires, and growing dissatisfaction with worldly pleasures point to the regenerating work of God.More than that, she lifts our eyes to the beauty of Christ Himself — the One who alone can satisfy the soul, fill it with joy, and assure believers of His unfailing love.This devotional is part of Daily Devotions with Dead People – Christmas Edition, a series designed to help believers slow down, reflect deeply, and rejoice in Christ during Advent.Topics covered:Assurance of salvationRegeneration and new spiritual desiresJoy found only in ChristChristian hope in dark timesEncouragement for weary believers✨ Subscribe for daily Advent devotionals 

Pastor Tyler Downing in Matthew 1:18-25 invites us to honor the Lord by faithfully embracing the specific life He's ordained for us, using Joseph as an example of compassionate justice, obedient faith, and humble recognition of his own need for a Savior as he names the child “Jesus.” He ties Joseph's story to our own deep longings, echoing C.S. Lewis' insight that desires this world can't satisfy point us to the reality that we were made for another world, and ultimately for Christ Himself.

In this message from 1 Peter 3: 7, the apostle Peter continues addressing marriage within his larger call to holy living in a hostile world. In the previous six verses, wives are called to reflect Christ's willing submission through respectful, pure conduct. Then, Peter turns to husbands in 1 Peter 3:7, and the weight of responsibility intensifies. Husbands are not exempt from submission. Instead, their submission takes the form of sacrificial leadership modeled after Christ Himself. Husbands are commanded to live with their wives according to understanding they have gained by studying and honoring them with attentiveness and care. Calling wives the “weaker vessel” does not diminish their worth or spirituality. The Bible is clear that husbands and wives are equal heirs of the grace of life, sharing the same salvation, dignity, and eternal hope. Instead, the term "weaker vessel" acknowledges physical vulnerability and places greater moral responsibility on the one with greater strength. Husbands are called to display a biblical masculinity that is not harsh or ignorant, but is loving, gentle, and protective. The passage closes with a sobering warning: how a husband treats his wife directly affects his relationship with God and his prayers. Spiritual leadership cannot be separated from relational faithfulness. Ultimately, in 1 Peter 3:1–7, the Holy Spirit calls the church to display Christ to the world through submitting wives and sacrificing husbands—where strength serves, love protects, and holiness reflects the gospel itself. _______________________________________ Links to Sermon Notes & Answers: ➤Sermon Notes (Blank): https://www.sheridanhills.org/_files/ugd/30fec2_2c3501226b0e41948b5f4342f0e92d8f.pdf ➤Sermon Notes (Answers): https://www.sheridanhills.org/_files/ugd/30fec2_b355597f615a405da65eaead117c5055.pdf ________________________________________ Subscribe to this channel to catch weekly expositional sermons from the Bible. ________________________________________ Explore more sermons and information: https://www.sheridanhills.org/watch-new ________________________________________ Follow us: ➤Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheridanhills/ ➤Twitter: https://twitter.com/sheridanhills01 ➤Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheridanhills/

Summary In this sermon from 1 Corinthians 10, Dr. Michael Easley unpacks the sobering contrast between God's supernatural provisions for Israel and Israel's repeated failures in the wilderness. He begins with a relatable observation: we often want the benefits of something without paying the cost. The Christian life, however, comes with a clear cost of discipleship—an intentional, obedient walk with Christ. Paul reminds the Corinthians of five divine provisions God gave Israel: supernatural guidance and protection through the cloud, supernatural deliverance through the Red Sea, identification with Moses through baptism, supernatural food from heaven, and supernatural water from the rock—ultimately pointing to Christ Himself. Yet despite these blessings, Israel fell into five destructive patterns: craving evil things, idolatry, immorality, testing God, and constant grumbling. Paul calls these events examples and instruction for believers today. We, too, are prone to drift even after receiving God's grace. Dr. Easley presses five reflective questions: What are you craving? What idols have crept in? Are you living immorally? Are you trying God? What are you grumbling about? The passage assures believers that God always provides a way of escape from temptation—and calls us to stand firm, repent, and walk faithfully with the One who guides, provides, and sustains. Takeaways God provides supernatural guidance, protection, and sustenance, yet our hearts can still drift toward sin. Israel's story is given as an example and instruction, warning believers not to repeat the same patterns. Craving anything more than Christ reveals a deeper spiritual problem beneath the surface. Idolatry arises whenever the “stuff” of life demands more of our time and devotion than our walk with God. God always provides a way of escape from temptation, but standing firm requires humility and vigilance. Honest self-examination before Christ transforms grumbling hearts into grateful, obedient disciples. To read the book of 1 Corinthians, click here. Click here for other Michael Easley Sermons.

The holidays can feel overwhelming—shopping, decorating, cooking, and trying to create picture-perfect moments. Yet Scripture reminds us that amid the chaos, the true gift of Christmas is Christ Himself. Just as Mary gave birth in a humble stable without the comforts she expected, we too are called to make room for Jesus in the midst of our busy, stressful seasons (Luke 2:7). By simplifying, prioritizing, and focusing on His presence, we discover that the peace and joy of Christmas don’t come from perfection—they come from Him. Highlights Holiday stress often overshadows the true purpose of Christmas: celebrating Jesus’ birth. Mary’s humble circumstances remind us that God’s plans don’t rely on comfort or convenience. Simplifying holiday tasks—limiting gifts, delegating meals, reducing activities—can create space for Christ. Focusing on Jesus transforms ordinary moments into meaningful celebrations. Gratitude for God’s provision, even amid financial or personal challenges, brings peace. Small adjustments in expectations allow families to experience joy without unnecessary stress. Making intentional space for Christ is the ultimate gift we can give ourselves and others. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Preparing Him Room: Making Space for Christ This ChristmasBy: Michelle Lazurek Bible Reading:“…and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” - Luke 2:7 It was all too much to bear. When my kids were little, they talked about what they wanted for Christmas for months. They made their list for Santa, wrote him letters, and even dropped it in the mailbox. As a mother, I would do anything to give them the perfect Christmas. I made sure they got everything they asked for, even if it meant starting early and taking money out of our paycheck each week to save for Christmas presents. But one year, my husband was planting a church, and finances were just too tight. I did my best to get the kids the presents that they wanted. But with all the wrapping, shopping, and a full-time job, while my husband was church planting, it added more stress to my life than I cared to admit. Although it was a magical moment to watch my kids open gifts on Christmas morning, the stress and irritation of all the preparation beforehand made it feel as if it simply wasn't worth it. I was putting all this stress on myself to write Christmas cards, decorate the house, and care for my children, in addition to working at a daycare where I cared for two- and three-year-olds all day long, only to come home to my own set of two- and three-year-olds. This would be enough to make anyone feel the extra weight of stress. Compelled by the idea of giving my kids the perfect Christmas, I stressed myself out, worrying about finances and spending all my extra time wrapping presents and writing cards. When Christmas Day came, I had created a holiday that would have made even Norman Rockwell jealous. But it was missing one thing: Jesus. Although my family and I attended Christmas Eve services, my kids lit candles, sang songs, and watched Christmas specials, it felt as if Jesus was missing from the holiday. Because it was so focused on the moment of opening gifts and getting my family what they wanted for Christmas, it felt as if I had wasted all my time and energy creating a magical moment that would only last a moment. Because of all the stress, I had laid aside my quiet time with the Lord, neglected to pray, and hadn't picked up my Bible in months. For a holiday that should be focused on the actual reason for this season, I had forgotten to make space for Christ. Maybe you can relate to the story above. All the Christmas wrapping, giving, and writing Christmas cards may seem too much to bear during the holiday season for you as well. Maybe buying gifts, long lines at the store, mounting traffic, and increasingly mean people seem like too much stress for you to bear, too. But it doesn't have to be this way. Mary experienced a similar situation. As she made the long travel, heavy in the throes of labor, I imagine she expected a comfortable room with which to give birth. But when she found out that there was no room at the inn, her expectations quickly shattered. But Mary didn't give in to the stress or leave God out of her situation. Instead, she made the best of what she had. She traveled to a nearby stable and, in less-than-ideal conditions, gave birth to our Savior, who, in turn, has given generations eternal life. Although Mary's situation was less than ideal, she still completed her ultimate purpose. The Christmas story can give us hope that, despite what we might be going through —financial struggles, health crises, loss of loved ones, etc.—we can find hope. While our situation for the holidays seems less than spectacular, we can make do with what God has given us. There's no better time than the Christmas season to give thanks for all that God has done. Minimize Christmas shopping this year. Opt to give gift cards rather than wrapping a bunch of presents. Limit the number of gifts you give to each person. Explain to them that finances are too tight this year, and the stress is just too much. Your stressful situation can quickly become less so with a bit of understanding and compassion from your family members. Ask family members to pitch in this year by giving food for the holiday meal, or skip hosting the traditional holiday meal and go out for dinner instead. Whatever you need to do to make the best of your holiday situation, take Mary's example and don't forget the ultimate purpose of why we celebrate Christmas. Father, let us be people who make space for you during the holiday season. Let us not crowd you out with copious amounts of gifts, wrapping, and decorating. Instead, let us remember the ultimate gift you have given us and live our lives knowing that we have already received the best gift of all. Amen. Intersecting Faith & Life: Is Christmas too stressful for you this year? What is one step you can take to reduce the stress and make your Christmas situation a little more bearable? Further Reading:Luke 1:41-44 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

1. Pointing at Others2. Looking Within3. Looking AheadToday's sermon explored how America has largely become "the Grinch who stole Christmas" by reducing this sacred season to mere "happy holidays" or retail opportunities. While many struggle during this time—due to division, loss, broken relationships, or loneliness—the root cause of their emptiness is often the absence of Christ Himself. Through the prophet Isaiah's journey from pointing fingers at others to falling prostrate before God's holiness, we discovered that true Christmas joy comes only when we humble ourselves and recognize Jesus as the promised Messiah—Immanuel, God with us. Isaiah's prophecies, written 750 years before Christ's birth, remind us that this baby born in obscurity is actually the Mighty God, Wonderful Counselor, and Prince of Peace who came to heal our fractured hearts and give us lasting peace.Takeaways:- Stop pointing, start looking within: Like Isaiah, we may be quick to judge the world's brokenness, but true transformation begins when we say "Woe is me" and acknowledge our own need for God's grace and forgiveness.- Jesus is the reason and the answer: No gift under a tree, no amount of spending, and no political solution can provide the sustained joy, lasting peace, and true meaning that only a relationship with Jesus Christ can offer.- Share the greatest gift: The best present anyone can receive this Christmas is the gift of salvation through Jesus—born in a manger, died on a cross, risen in victory—so that all who believe can have peace with God.As you navigate these final days before Christmas, I encourage you to extend kindness to those you encounter, remember that a little compassion goes a long way, and most importantly, share the hope of Christ with someone who needs to hear that God is with us.May you experience the true peace of Immanuel this season.

1. Pointing at Others2. Looking Within3. Looking AheadToday's sermon explored how America has largely become "the Grinch who stole Christmas" by reducing this sacred season to mere "happy holidays" or retail opportunities. While many struggle during this time—due to division, loss, broken relationships, or loneliness—the root cause of their emptiness is often the absence of Christ Himself. Through the prophet Isaiah's journey from pointing fingers at others to falling prostrate before God's holiness, we discovered that true Christmas joy comes only when we humble ourselves and recognize Jesus as the promised Messiah—Immanuel, God with us. Isaiah's prophecies, written 750 years before Christ's birth, remind us that this baby born in obscurity is actually the Mighty God, Wonderful Counselor, and Prince of Peace who came to heal our fractured hearts and give us lasting peace.Takeaways:- Stop pointing, start looking within: Like Isaiah, we may be quick to judge the world's brokenness, but true transformation begins when we say "Woe is me" and acknowledge our own need for God's grace and forgiveness.- Jesus is the reason and the answer: No gift under a tree, no amount of spending, and no political solution can provide the sustained joy, lasting peace, and true meaning that only a relationship with Jesus Christ can offer.- Share the greatest gift: The best present anyone can receive this Christmas is the gift of salvation through Jesus—born in a manger, died on a cross, risen in victory—so that all who believe can have peace with God.As you navigate these final days before Christmas, I encourage you to extend kindness to those you encounter, remember that a little compassion goes a long way, and most importantly, share the hope of Christ with someone who needs to hear that God is with us.May you experience the true peace of Immanuel this season.

Tom Logue - December 14th 2025 What you value most will determine who your master is. This week, Tom continues our King and His Kingdom series in Matthew 19:16–22 with Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler. Through a simple “this or that” exercise and a deeply personal exposition of the text, Tom shows how our everyday choices reveal what we truly value—and ultimately, what we worship. While the young man appears moral, successful, and spiritually sincere, Jesus exposes the deeper issue of his heart: eternal life cannot be earned, and his wealth has become a rival master. Tom unpacks how Jesus intentionally lists only the commandments related to loving others, then lovingly confronts the man's idolatry through a custom-tailored invitation. When we genuinely engage with God, He inevitably invites us to let go of lesser masters—money, control, approval, comfort—and follow Him instead. These invitations are not just tests; they are the keys to freedom. In a powerful Advent connection, Tom shows how Jesus practices what He preaches: Christ Himself let go of the riches of heaven, gave His life to the spiritually poor, and now invites us to say yes to the only Master who leads to life. This message calls us to examine our ruling gods, receive the gift of grace, and joyfully say, “Yes, Master,” to Jesus alone. Learn more about our church: https://restoredtemecula.church Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restoredtemecula and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restoredtemecula #Matthew19 #KingAndHisKingdom #RichYoungRuler #Idolatry #Grace #Advent #FreedomInChrist #RestoredTemecula Share this message with someone who needs to hear it. Chapters (00:00:00) - Welcome Home: Restored Church(00:00:35) - Advent season(00:03:08) - In the Elevator With Me(00:05:24) - 20 Questions Gen Z Can't Answer(00:06:42) - Last One: Sunrise or Sunset(00:07:06) - What Do We Value?(00:10:01) - Rich Young Ruler(00:12:35) - The Rich Young Ruler's Problem(00:18:17) - Christmas: A Gift of Grace(00:20:34) - Jesus Listens to His Disciples(00:25:30) - Engagement with God Is a Test(00:31:53) - Young Man, What Will You Cling To Above All Else?(00:39:00) - There's Only One Master For You(00:41:53) - Ditch the Idols and Make Me Your Master(00:44:27) - Jesus Invitation to the Rich Young Ruler(00:50:03) - Jesus' invitation to say yes(00:52:09) - A Moment of Praise for Others

In this message, I reflect on John the Baptist in prison and the unseen prisons that bind us today—fear, guilt, sorrow, addiction, and despair. Christmas does not free us through sentiment or celebration, but through Christ Himself, who came to dwell with us in our darkness and set prisoners truly free. John points us to Jesus, the promised One, whose coming brings not temporary happiness, but lasting joy, peace, and hope—even in suffering. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus breaks every prison stronger than iron bars, and through His Word, Baptism, forgiveness, and Supper, He continues to visit us now. This is the Advent joy we celebrate: Emmanuel, God with us, who frees us to live—even in the midst of hardship—in His unshakable freedom and life.

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, goodwill toward men, is not just a slogan to be confined to December. It is the most radical display of angelic intervention documented in Scripture. Apart from Christ Himself it is the single greatest announcement of God‘s intention and heart as a Father over humanity through Jesus. In Short, it is the gospel.

In the second week of Advent, Dean invites us to consider the gift of peace as declared by the angels in Luke 2:8-14 and accomplished through Christ Himself. Ephesians 2:14-18 shows us that Jesus doesn't just offer peace; He is our peace, breaking down dividing walls and reconciling us to God and one another. Advent reminds us that peace is not simply the absence of conflict but the presence of a restored relationship. In a fractured world and a divided age, the Church is called to embody this peace together, living as a people reconciled by grace and united in Christ.

What can steady us under the overwhelming love of Christ? Song of Songs 2:3–7 prepares us for the evening sermon on the coming Lord's Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Christ Himself sustains believers in the overwhelming experience of His love. The Song of Songs 2:3–7 presents a rich theological portrait of Christ as the ultimate source of spiritual beauty, refreshment, and safety, depicted through vivid imagery of an apple tree in the woods, a sheltering shade, and a banquet of wine. The bride's experience of Christ's love is both deeply personal and profoundly restorative—she finds delight in His protection, sweetness in His provision, and overwhelming joy in His presence, which sustains her even when she is spiritually overwhelmed. Her plea for the daughters of Jerusalem to sustain her with raisins and apples symbolizes the need for the church to nourish one another with the truth of Christ, not merely emotional experiences, for it is through the reality that sound doctrine describes that Christ Himself catches and upholds the believer. The passage warns against seeking religious affections apart from the solid foundation of Christ's identity and work, emphasizing that genuine intimacy with Him requires both theological truth and personal union through faith. Ultimately, the devotional calls believers to rest in Christ, not in fleeting emotional highs, but in the enduring reality of Him and that union with Him into which He Himself brings us.

Faith shapes every part of life—not only what we believe, but how we spend, save, invest, and give. Every financial decision reveals something about what we value, trust, and treasure most. That's why conversations about money are never just about budgets or balances; they're deeply spiritual.Today, Afton Phillips, our Head of Content at FaithFi, joins the show to talk about how our faith reshapes the way we steward God's resources. This conversation grew out of our upcoming 21-day devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure, and the themes behind it.The Heart Behind the New DevotionalAfton has been shaping this project from its earliest concept to its final pages. She shared that when she first joined FaithFi, she longed for a place where people could revisit core biblical principles—not simply hear them once, but reflect on them deeply.“Money isn't just about math,” Afton said. “It's really about our hearts.”The devotional walks readers through foundational truths:God owns it all.Money issues are heart issues.Our financial lives are deeply connected to our spiritual formation.If that's true, then what we need isn't a formula—it's space with God. Scripture. Prayer. Reflection. This devotional is designed to help readers slow down long enough to allow God to reshape how they see and handle money.Redefining Success: What We Surrender, Not What We StoreOne of the early themes in Our Ultimate Treasure is the truth that God doesn't measure success by what we store up, but by what we surrender.We're all tempted to believe that just a little more—more savings, more security, more achievement—will finally bring peace. But no amount of accumulation ever delivers the rest our souls crave.True biblical success is about formation more than finances.Are we growing in Christlikeness?Are the fruits of the Spirit becoming more evident in our lives?Are we learning to let go of fear, control, and comfort so God can shape us?When surrender becomes the lens, money stops being a monument to ourselves and becomes a tool for becoming more like Jesus.Restoring Purpose in Our WorkAnother key section of the devotional explores a truth we often forget: work is not a curse—it's a calling.From the very beginning, God designed work as something good. Not something we merely do to earn or survive, but something through which we participate in His redemptive mission.Your desk, job site, classroom, or kitchen table isn't just a workplace—it's holy ground. Your work is one of the primary arenas where God shapes your character and blesses others through you.Why Margin Matters for Faithful StewardshipMargin is one of the most important threads running through the entire devotional.Afton put it simply:“Margin creates space for God to move.”When we max out:our moneyour timeour energyWe leave no room to listen, pause, or respond to God's leading.Margin isn't restrictive. It's freeing. It enables generosity, rest, trust, and wise decision-making. It's one of the clearest marks of faithful stewardship.The Power of Wise CounselMoney can feel personal—sometimes even private. But Scripture is clear: we're not meant to navigate finances alone.Every day, callers to our program remind us how many people long for guidance, encouragement, and clarity. That's why we devoted an entire day in the devotional to seeking wise counsel.Afton shared:“When we invite wise counsel into our lives, we begin to see things we might have missed.”That's also why Certified Kingdom Advisors (CKA) exist—to help believers apply biblical principles to their real-life financial situations. You can find one at FindaCKA.com.Generosity Rooted in Grace, Not GuiltIf there's a single thread that runs through the whole devotional, it's generosity.But not guilt-driven generosity. Grace-driven generosity.We give because God has first given to us—lavishly, sacrificially, joyfully. When we understand His grace, generosity becomes something we get to do, not something we feel pressured into.Every act of giving becomes an act of worship.A Devotional Designed for Reflection, Beauty, and FormationOne of the most unique aspects of Our Ultimate Treasure is its built-in rhythm of reflection.Each day includes:ScriptureA devotionalGuided reflection questionsA written prayerBeautiful, thoughtful imageryThe artwork itself invites contemplation. Everyday images—like a simple desk—are visually transformed to reflect biblical truth, reminding readers that God reshapes the way we see everything, even our work and money.This devotional was designed not just to be read, but to be experienced.Finishing with What Truly Lasts: Eternal RewardsThe final day draws us back to what matters most: our ultimate treasure is Christ Himself.Earthly wealth fades. Opportunities change. Seasons shift. But our life in Christ—His presence, His love, His Kingdom—endures forever. Afton summed it up beautifully:“What are we investing in that will matter in a thousand years? That's eternal treasure.”Experience Our Ultimate TreasureIf you'd like to journey through this 21-day devotional yourself, we would love to send it to you as part of the FaithFi Partner Program.With a monthly gift of $35 or a one-time gift of $400, you'll receive year-long benefits, including early access to studies, devotionals, and our Faithful Steward magazine.You can learn more at FaithFi.com/Partner.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have Roth and traditional IRAs, plus taxable investments with large capital gains. My advisor suggested direct indexing last year, so I opened a small-cap account. It's up slightly overall but includes about a 19% loss I could use to offset gains. I also give appreciated stock to charity, but I need some funds for living expenses. My question is: Is direct indexing a biblically sound strategy, or is it problematic in any way? And how do you tell the brokerage which companies you don't want to own? Do you specify which types of businesses to exclude?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)National Christian Foundation (NCF)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is the Bible we read today the same one the prophets, apostles, and early church had? In this episode, we put the Scriptures under the microscope—textual criticism, the Dead Sea Scrolls, manuscript counts, famous variants (like John 7:53–8:11 and Mark 16:9–20), and the claim of “400,000 errors.” We'll show why the integrity of the Bible matters for the Gospel, for trusting Jesus (John 10:35), and for your everyday evangelism.What you'll learn:Why this question isn't a side issue—it's about the trustworthiness of the Gospel and of Christ Himself.OT reliability: Masoretic Text vs. Dead Sea Scrolls—how close are we to the originals?NT reliability: the bibliographical test, thousands of manuscripts, and how variants are weighed.The “400,000 variants” claim—what counts as a variant, and why the vast majority don't change meaning.Big textual questions (e.g., Longer Ending of Mark, Woman Caught in Adultery, Johannine Comma) and why identifying them strengthens confidence.Why alternative “final authorities” never face the same scrutiny—and why Scripture stands.===============================Resources mentioned: Ketef Hinnom Scrolls: https://ketefhinnomsilverscrolls.github.io/about.htmlIntroduction to Textual Criticism pt. 1: https://www.aomin.org/aoblog/textual-issues/an-introduction-to-textual-criticism-part-3-textual-errors/Introduction to Textual Criticism pt. 3: https://www.aomin.org/aoblog/textual-issues/an-introduction-to-textual-criticism-part-3-textual-errors/Ed Gravely - Aren't There 400,000 Variants in the NT? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gieq2fYH9gs https://www.aomin.org/aoblog/textual-issues/an-introduction-to-textual-criticism-part-1-introduction/=================================If this helped you:

John and Christian discuss the rise of miracle-centered Christianity and how modern charismatic culture often replaces the gospel with spectacle. Drawing from historical patterns, revival culture, and first-hand experiences, they explore why movements focused on signs and wonders drift away from Scripture and toward emotionalism, hype, and manipulative faith-building tactics. They compare the biblical purpose of miracles with how theatrics, staged healings, and personality-driven leadership have created confusion, dependency, and spiritual harm. The conversation also examines William Branham’s revival era, fraudulent “manifestations,” the psychological pressure behind positive confession, and how charismatic environments can open the door to hero worship and authoritarian leadership. John and Christian reflect on the dangers of creating a false dichotomy between cessationism and continuationism, reminding listeners that the true gospel is not found in supernatural showmanship but in Christ Himself. ______________________– Support the channel: https://www.patreon.com/branham – Visit the website: https://william-branham.org

The sermon centers on the biblical imperative to add patience to one's faith, presenting it not as passive endurance but as a dynamic, God-ordained virtue essential for spiritual maturity. Drawing from 2 Peter 1:5–9, it emphasizes that patience—defined as cheerful endurance and long-suffering—is cultivated through tribulation, trials, and suffering, and is exemplified in the lives of biblical figures like Job, Abraham, Paul and Silas, and Stephen, as well as in the ministry of Christ Himself. The message underscores that patience is not merely a personal trait but a divine requirement for ministers, saints, and all believers, enabling effective service, perseverance in prayer, endurance amid persecution, and faithful anticipation of Christ's return. Ultimately, patience is portrayed as a necessary, deliberate growth process that, when embraced, leads to spiritual completeness and divine fruitfulness, fulfilling God's purpose for the believer's life.

This week Chase discusses Ephesians 6:1-9, dealing with how human-to-human interactions as Christians ought to be done in such a way that we treat others the way we would want to treat Christ Himself. We look at relationships between children and parents, and servants and masters. Description Visit our linktree: https://linktr.ee/scatteredabroadnetwork Visit our website, www.scatteredabroad.org, and subscribe to our email list. "Like" and "share" our Facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/sapodcastnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ the_scattered_abroad_network/ Subscribe to our Substack: https://scatteredabroad.substack.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel: The Scattered Abroad Network Contact us through email at san@msop.org. If you would like to consider supporting us in any way, don't hesitate to contact us through this email.

This week Chase discusses Ephesians 6:1-9, dealing with how human-to-human interactions as Christians ought to be done in such a way that we treat others the way we would want to treat Christ Himself. We look at relationships between children and parents, and servants and masters. Description Visit our linktree: https://linktr.ee/scatteredabroadnetwork Visit our website, www.scatteredabroad.org, and subscribe to our email list. "Like" and "share" our Facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/sapodcastnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ the_scattered_abroad_network/ Subscribe to our Substack: https://scatteredabroad.substack.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel: The Scattered Abroad Network Contact us through email at san@msop.org. If you would like to consider supporting us in any way, don't hesitate to contact us through this email.

"At the heart of Paul's gospel is one great truth: our justification by faith rests on our union with Christ.In Galatians 2:20–21, Paul reveals the foundation beneath his uncompromising defense of justification by faith alone. Why does he refuse to yield an inch to any teaching that adds works to faith? Because such teaching undermines the very heart of salvation—our union with Christ.In this sermon, we explore how every aspect of the Christian life flows from this glorious union:We are justified because we are united to the Righteous One.We are sanctified because Christ lives in us by His Spirit.We are adopted because we share in the Son's own relationship with the Father.We will be raised because we are joined to the risen Lord.For Paul, Christ is salvation. To add works to faith is not merely to misunderstand justification—it is to deny the sufficiency of Christ Himself. If righteousness could come by the law, then Christ died for nothing.May this message deepen your love for Christ, strengthen your assurance in His finished work, and help you see that the life of faith is nothing less than the life of Christ in you.

In this week's message from John 2:23–25, we look at a moment when many people may have been amazed by Jesus' miracles, but Jesus knew their belief wasn't the real thing. He sees the true condition of every heart, including ours, and He invites us to move beyond being impressed by what He can do to genuinely trusting who He is. This sermon is an honest reminder to make sure our faith rests in Christ Himself, because the One who knows us completely is also the One who saves us completely.Also on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9361JSYKFqgSunday, December 7, 2025Pastor Kevin PierpontCalvary Church, Webberville, Michiganhttps://webbervillechurch.org

Today's Promise: Hebrews 2:18 Temptation is a daily reality for every believer. The world around us and the invisible kingdom of darkness work relentlessly to pull our hearts away from trusting God. The enemy's goal is simple: to shift us from obedient dependence on the Lord to quiet, subtle rebellion. And when he can't lure us into outright sin, he works just as hard to distract us, dull our focus, and turn our eyes away from Jesus. In this episode, we explore what it really means to face temptation as a follower of Christ and how to stand firm when spiritual pressure rises. You'll be reminded that you never fight alone. Jesus stands with you in every moment of weakness, offering His strength, His presence, and His victory. When you look to Him, you discover a power greater than any temptation, a power that lives within you through Christ Himself. Tune in and be encouraged to walk in daily victory.

Todaywill continue to look at Ephesians 4:7-11. These verses are about the Spiritualgifts that God gives “to each one of us” for unity in the church.These gifts can either be used to build us up or used to tear us down. God hasalready given us the Gift of the Holy Spirit at the moment of our salvation. Atthat time, we were baptized into the body of Christ, and the Holy Spirit cameto dwell within us. This great truth is taught throughout the Epistles in theNew Testament.  Butalong with the Gift of the Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ, through the Holy Spirit,also imparted Spiritual gifts into our life. These gifts are many and you willfind them listed in Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12-14 and also in Ephesians 4. Weneed to also understand that these Spiritual gifts are not the naturalabilities that we're born with, such as mechanical ability, musical ability,athletic ability, or artistic ability. No, those are natural abilities anddifferent people have different natural abilities.  Butthese are Spiritual gifts and this gifting is very important for us tounderstand as believers. I'm convinced, we will not find real fulfillment,satisfaction, and real contentment in our lives unless we're fulfilling thepurpose for which God created us. Remember in Ephesians 2:8-10 we learned that Godsaved us by His grace, not just so we could go to heaven when we died, butbecause, “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, whichGod prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” He saves us to do “goodworks” for Him through the abilities we have from our Spiritual gifts.  Godknew exactly what gifts the body needed in that particular local church and He “preparedbeforehand” and gifted every believer that became a part of that localchurch with specific spiritual gifts to build up that body of Jesus Christwhich builds up the whole body of Christ around the world. So these arepowerful verses to understand and make sure we begin to comprehend and apply to“each” of our lives as we see in verse 7: “But to each one of us,grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift”.  Paulsaid something similar in Romans 12:4-6: "For aswe have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the samefunction. So we being many are one body in Christ and individually members ofone another." Having then gifts differing according to the grace that isgiven to us, let us use them”. We should make sure we're exercising thosespiritual gifts that God has given us. Thenin verses 8-10, we read something very interesting. These are wonderful versesreminding us that Jesus Christ first descended that He might ascend. And He ledcaptivity captive. I believe the meaning of this is that just as we werecaptive to Satan by sin before salvation, Jesus Christ because He wasvictorious over death and sin and hell and the grave, He now takes us captivefor His glory, and gives the Spiritual gifts that we need to serve Him. “Jesusdescended that He might ascend”. He descended in obedience to “death of thecross and for that God has highly exalted Him and given Him the Name that isabove every name…” (Philippians 2:8-11).  Jesus“descended to the lower parts of the earth”. I believe that this couldmean that Jesus took there those in paradise previous to the cross and He ledthem up to the third heaven. And Jesus also delivered us from our captivity tosin and Satan and made us His captives to be free to live holy and Godly livesand gave us the Spiritual gifts to serve Him.  Ohmy friend, aren't you so thankful that Jesus “though He was rich, He becamepoor that we through His poverty might be rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). Wehave the riches of Christ, and the Spiritual gifts that He's given “toeach one of us”, the wealth of Christ Himself living within “eachone of us” today.  Doyou know your Spiritual gifts? Are you using them for the glory of God and thebuilding up of the body of Jesus Christ?

Acts 9:1-31 shows that moving from sinner to servant requires dying to our self-made identity and receiving God's chosen purpose, as Saul the Pharisee became Paul the apostle. Jesus's words "Why are you persecuting Me?" reveal that attacking the church means attacking Christ Himself—a truth that revolutionized Saul's theology. When Barnabas risked his reputation to vouch for Saul, he modeled how God uses courageous bridge-builders to integrate transformed lives into the community of faith.

In this special replay of the June 19, 2023 Morning Manna broadcast, we revisit two of Jesus' shortest and most powerful parables—the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl of Great Price (Matthew 13:44–46). These twin stories reveal the incomparable value of God's Kingdom and the radical joy that compels true discipleship. A man stumbles upon treasure and sells everything with gladness; a merchant searches for the finest pearl and gives up all he possesses to obtain it. In this teaching, Rick Wiles and Doc Burkhart explore the nature of kingdom desire, the cost of genuine commitment, and the surpassing worth of Christ Himself, who remains the greatest treasure a believer can ever find. Teachers: Rick Wiles and Doc Burkhart You can partner with us by visiting FaithandValues.com, calling 1-888-519-4935, or by mail at PO Box 399 Vero Beach, FL 32961. MEGA FIRE reveals the ancient recurring cycles of war and economic collapse that have shaped history for 600 years. These patterns predict America is now entering its most dangerous period since World War II. Get your copy today! www.megafire.world Get high-quality emergency preparedness food today from American Reserves! www.AmericanReserves.com It's the Final Day! The day Jesus Christ bursts into our dimension of time, space, and matter. Now available in eBook and audio formats! Order Final Day from Amazon today! www.Amazon.com/Final-Day Apple users, you can download the audio version on Apple Books! www.books.apple.com/final-day Purchase the 4-part DVD set or start streaming Sacrificing Liberty today. www.Sacrificingliberty.com

The disciples admired the beauty of the Temple, but Jesus saw something entirely different—a system God had already left behind. In Mark 13:1, we learn that the Old Covenant structures were temporary shadows pointing to something far greater: Christ Himself as the true Temple, and His people as the dwelling place of God's Spirit. This week, Pastor Korey walks us through the stunning reality that God is no longer found in man-made buildings but in the living Temple of His Church, where His glory now rests and His Kingdom advances.

In this episode, the conversation centers on the biblical calling for men to protect, honor, and care for the women God has placed in their lives—whether wives, daughters, sisters in Christ, or women within the community of faith. Grounded in a Christian worldview, the podcast emphasizes that protection is not simply a masculine instinct but a God-given responsibility modeled after Christ Himself.   Featuring Pastor Sonny Smith  At the BetterMan Michigan Conference 2025