Podcasts about corinthians

Holiness is Contagious: Why God's Power is Bigger Than Your Spouse's SinAre you afraid the world will pull you down? Worried that your unbelieving spouse will contaminate your faith? In this powerful message from 1 Corinthians 7:10-16, Pastor Alex destroys “little God theology” and reveals a truth that will change how you see marriage, friendship, and evangelism forever: holiness is contagious.We're continuing our series through Corinthians with one of the most challenging passages in Scripture. Paul addresses two critical groups: Christian couples considering divorce and believers married to unbelievers. Both situations reveal something radical about God's character that most churches get wrong.This message unpacks: • The communicable and incommunicable attributes of God (immutable, infinite, impassable) • Why “little God theology” keeps Christians trapped in fear • What Jesus actually said about divorce in Matthew 5, 19, and Mark 10 • The counter-cultural call to stay married—even to unbelievers • What it means that an unbelieving spouse is “sanctified” through their believing partner • Why your holiness won't contaminate—it will transform • The biblical destruction of the “chair illustration” youth pastors use • How Christ touching the leper proves God pulls people UP, not downHere's the truth that will set you free: When Christ touched the leper, the leper didn't infect Jesus—Jesus healed the leper. That's how powerful God's holiness is. And that same holiness lives in YOU.Paul's message is astronomically counter-cultural. In a Greco-Roman world where “no-fault divorce” was as easy as walking out the door, Paul says: stay married. Why? Because your holiness is contagious. Your unbelieving spouse will be made holy. Your children will be holy. Not saved automatically—but positioned in a power sphere where God's transforming holiness operates.This isn't about tolerating abuse or staying in danger—Christians always err on the side of life. But it IS about understanding that you don't save people by avoiding them. You save them by being in their lives while God does the heavy lifting.We end with a powerful reflection on communion and what it means that the table can heal—because what it points to is REAL.Join us at House Church Kauai as we learn to be disciples, not just Christians—people with fruit, not just a title.House Church Kauai - Meeting in our garage, staying together in the rain, believing God for a tentSupport this ministry: housechurchkauai.com Get full access to Amen Podcast at amenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Psalm 19A Psalm 64 Psalm 97 1 Corinthians 4:1-16 Prayer Requests to psp@sqpn.com

Send us a textWhat if the truest test of love isn't how we feel but how long our fuse is—and how near we're willing to move toward hard people? We dive into 1 Corinthians 13 and sit with two verbs that refuse to be sentimental: love is patient and love is kind. Not patience with things that break, but patience with people who do; not a vague warmth at a distance, but a generosity that crosses the hallway, answers the need, and carries enough “coals” to relight a life.We unpack the language behind long-fused love, explore why non-retaliation is so radical, and trace how kindness is more than politeness—it's contact, cost, and concrete help. From a classroom boot fiasco to the cultural story behind “heaping coals,” the episode paints vivid snapshots of agape in action. Patience restrains the reflex to get even; kindness turns restraint into restoration. Along the way, we challenge the easy-out of avoidance and the myth that love can grow on sheer willpower. These traits are fruit of the Spirit, formed in the friction of real relationships, and practiced in public where gratitude isn't guaranteed.You'll leave with a clearer picture of how to endure without exploding and how to bless without being asked, whether it's the colleague who drains you, the neighbor who wronged you, or the stranger whose need will cost you time. If you've been waiting for a practical, soul-searching guide to make love visible—patient in the heat and kind at close range—this conversation will steady your steps. Listen, share with someone who needs hope, and if it helps you, subscribe and leave a review so others can find their way to long-fused love too.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

Holiness is Contagious: Why God's Power is Bigger Than Your Spouse's SinAre you afraid the world will pull you down? Worried that your unbelieving spouse will contaminate your faith? In this powerful message from 1 Corinthians 7:10-16, Pastor Alex destroys “little God theology” and reveals a truth that will change how you see marriage, friendship, and evangelism forever: holiness is contagious.We're continuing our series through Corinthians with one of the most challenging passages in Scripture. Paul addresses two critical groups: Christian couples considering divorce and believers married to unbelievers. Both situations reveal something radical about God's character that most churches get wrong.This message unpacks: • The communicable and incommunicable attributes of God (immutable, infinite, impassable) • Why “little God theology” keeps Christians trapped in fear • What Jesus actually said about divorce in Matthew 5, 19, and Mark 10 • The counter-cultural call to stay married—even to unbelievers • What it means that an unbelieving spouse is “sanctified” through their believing partner • Why your holiness won't contaminate—it will transform • The biblical destruction of the “chair illustration” youth pastors use • How Christ touching the leper proves God pulls people UP, not downHere's the truth that will set you free: When Christ touched the leper, the leper didn't infect Jesus—Jesus healed the leper. That's how powerful God's holiness is. And that same holiness lives in YOU.Paul's message is astronomically counter-cultural. In a Greco-Roman world where “no-fault divorce” was as easy as walking out the door, Paul says: stay married. Why? Because your holiness is contagious. Your unbelieving spouse will be made holy. Your children will be holy. Not saved automatically—but positioned in a power sphere where God's transforming holiness operates.This isn't about tolerating abuse or staying in danger—Christians always err on the side of life. But it IS about understanding that you don't save people by avoiding them. You save them by being in their lives while God does the heavy lifting.We end with a powerful reflection on communion and what it means that the table can heal—because what it points to is REAL.Join us at House Church Kauai as we learn to be disciples, not just Christians—people with fruit, not just a title.House Church Kauai - Meeting in our garage, staying together in the rain, believing God for a tentSupport this ministry: housechurchkauai.com Get full access to Amen Podcast at amenpodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Send us a textWhat if the truest test of love isn't how we feel but how long our fuse is—and how near we're willing to move toward hard people? We dive into 1 Corinthians 13 and sit with two verbs that refuse to be sentimental: love is patient and love is kind. Not patience with things that break, but patience with people who do; not a vague warmth at a distance, but a generosity that crosses the hallway, answers the need, and carries enough “coals” to relight a life.We unpack the language behind long-fused love, explore why non-retaliation is so radical, and trace how kindness is more than politeness—it's contact, cost, and concrete help. From a classroom boot fiasco to the cultural story behind “heaping coals,” the episode paints vivid snapshots of agape in action. Patience restrains the reflex to get even; kindness turns restraint into restoration. Along the way, we challenge the easy-out of avoidance and the myth that love can grow on sheer willpower. These traits are fruit of the Spirit, formed in the friction of real relationships, and practiced in public where gratitude isn't guaranteed.You'll leave with a clearer picture of how to endure without exploding and how to bless without being asked, whether it's the colleague who drains you, the neighbor who wronged you, or the stranger whose need will cost you time. If you've been waiting for a practical, soul-searching guide to make love visible—patient in the heat and kind at close range—this conversation will steady your steps. Listen, share with someone who needs hope, and if it helps you, subscribe and leave a review so others can find their way to long-fused love too.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

What does real spiritual maturity look like? It's not how many verses you know, how loud you sing, or how often you serve. According to Scripture, the true test is how well you love.In this powerful final installment of our Inside Out: Becoming Emotionally and Spiritually Healthy in Christ series, Pastor Talaat McNeely unpacks 1 Corinthians 13 with a timely and challenging word for today's divided world.From political polarization to cultural tension, it's easy to let division define us. But Paul reminds us—and this message makes clear—that biblical love is patient, kind, enduring, and active. It's not optional. It's the fruit of emotional health, it requires maturity, it must be practiced daily, and it points people straight to Jesus.This message will push you to examine your relationships, your responses, and your witness as a follower of Christ. If you're ready to discover what it really means to love well—and why love is the foundation for everything—this episode is for you.

In this What We Believe message, Pastor Woody Morwood explores God's creation, the Fall, and the hope of redemption. We unpack Genesis 1–3 to understand God's original design for life, relationships, and purpose—and how sin brought brokenness, fear, and separation.Through the story of Adam and Eve and the trials of Job, Pastor Woody shows how God's sovereignty and grace guide us through suffering, offering a path to restoration. Scripture from Isaiah, Psalms, 2 Corinthians, and Revelation 21 reveals God's plan to make all things new through Jesus Christ.Discover how God is at work in your life, your relationships, and the world—even in the midst of chaos—and find hope in His redemptive powerKey Scripture References:Genesis 1–3 – Creation, humanity in God's image, and the FallRomans 8:22 – Creation groaning under sinJob 38–42 – God's sovereignty amidst sufferingPsalm 51:10 – God creates a pure heartIsaiah 53:4-6 – The suffering servant redeems humanity2 Corinthians 5:17-19 – New creation in ChristRevelation 21:1-5 – God making all things newNehemiah 9:6; Hebrews 1:3 – God sustains creationAdditional Resources:Video: Where Were You? – Ghost Ship - https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YIS0av9fUUUPhilip Yancey, Where Is God When It Hurts?Walter Brueggemann, Genesis: Interpretation CommentaryDon Thorson, An Exploration of Christian TheologyVisual artwork inspired by Isaiah 53 by a studentFor the full gathering of this message which includes worship, visit our Youtube channel. Stay Connected With Hillside Community Church.Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/c/HillsideCommunityChurchInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/hillsidechurches/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/hillsidechurchesWebsite | https://hillsidechurches.com

How do you make God like you? For thousands of years, people have been trying to earn Gods love. In this message by Pastor Alex Klimchuk, talks about how the knowledge of the Grace of God is your shield. Ephesians 2:8-9, Psalm 5:12, 1 Corinthians 15:10 Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, & 10SUBSCRIBE for more biblical teachings!   Please follow our websites for more!

Even in the face of fear and uncertainty, God is by your side as you walk toward His calling. We see that through the life of Gideon, a man from the smallest clan and the least in his family, yet led by God to do great things on His behalf. Notes: Focus verse - Judges 6 It seems like our culture has been turned upside down. Isaiah 5:20–21Destruction is certain for those who say that evil is good and good is evil; that dark is light and light is dark; that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter. When culture is upside down, hearts are anxious. 84% of Gen Z say they feel anxious or stressed regularly. 1 in 3 adults say they lose sleep over finances. Nearly 70% of Americans say the future makes them afraid. Top fears include failure, rejection, loneliness, global conflict, and health. We will look at a man named Gideon who was really afraid when Jesus came to him.He was hiding from his enemies, the Midianites. Jesus turns fearful into faithful,hiding into fighting, andpanic into purpose. Things were really turned upside down in the days of the book of Judges. Judges 17:6 (NLT)In those days Israel had no king; so the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes. God raised up 13 judges to guide His people through this difficult time. The book of Joshua is the story of conquest.While Judges is a book of unbelief and disobedience. Joshua is a book about people uniting around one man to lead them, JoshuaJudges is about “everyone doing what was right in their own eyes.” But whatever and wherever the time, Jesus will show up. Don’t just pray when you are in crisis.Remember also to thank God when things are going well. James 5:13 (NIV)Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray.Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. This was a time of crisis for Israel. It was the year 1256 b.c.Approximately 200 years had passed since Joshua had led the Israelites. They did not drive all the Canaanites out and they lived to regret it.The same can be true in our lives as Christians. 200 years later the Canaanites regained strength and began to dominate the Israelites. As Judges, chapter 6 opens, we see the Israelites living under the power of the Midianites. Israel was living in despair, and finally they called out to God to deliver them,and Jesus shows up. Jesus meets fearful people where they hide. As our story begins, we find Gideon hiding from his enemies.Hardly a picture of heroism and courage. Read Judges 6:11–14 Gideon wanted to know why this difficulty was happening.He had heard about the “good old days” but where was God now? Judges 6:13“Sir,” Gideon replied, “if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? “ The Christian life is full of difficult questions. 1 Corinthians 13:12“Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely.” So often we are looking for an answer to the why question when it is about a Who.As in, “Who do I turn to?” The answer to that question is Jesus. This was not a mere angel (as powerful as they are) this was Jesus. Why is this a Christophany instead an angelic appearance? The speaker at first is called, “The angel of the Lord.”But then the narrative shifts and simply calls Him, “The LORD (YHWH).” The messenger says, “I am sending you.”Judges 6:14 He uses the first-person pronoun and assumes divine authority. Gideon realizes he has seen God. Judges 6:22When Gideon realized that it was the angel of the Lord, he cried out, “Oh Sovereign Lord, I’m doomed! I have seen the angel of the Lord face to face!” Judges 6:15 (NLT)"But Lord," Gideon replied, "how can I rescue Israel? My clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!" Another translation says, “I am the runt of the litter!” God uses people who are humble. They are not proud and arrogant but see themselves for what they are. Giving hope to all the people out there who were not extraordinary but ordinary. God can do extraordinary things through ordinary people. God saw Gideon for what he would become. Gideon asks, “Who am I?”The Lord says, “That’s not the issue, ‘Who am I?’ for I will be with you!”Judges 6:15–16 The Lord calls Gideon a mighty hero. Judges 6:12The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!” We see failure, God sees potential.We see a vacillating, unsure Simon, God sees a rock like Peter. Before public victory, obey God at home. God’s first test for Gideon was in his home. Some people set the world on fire, while others are still looking for a match. I would rather try and fail than never try at all. Nicodemus had a weak beginning, but he had a strong ending.Better that than a strong beginning and a weak finish. Under cover of night, Gideon tore down the alter his father had erected. Instead of turning on his son, the father defends himand seems to have his own faith rekindled. Don’t give up on your family. You don’t need to preach sermons to them all day long.You need to show it by the way you live and decisions you make. You need to take a stand in your home. Are you reading scripture to your children? Are you praying with them?Are you taking them to church every Sunday? A survey was done that found if the mother and father attend church regularly,72 % of their children will also attend regularly when they’re young adults. When only the father attends, 55 % will remain faithful. But if only the mother attends regularly, only 15 % of the children will remain faithful. If neither mother nor father attend regularly, only 6 % will remain faithful. Gideon was able to rally 32,000 men. Read Judges 7:2–3 Fear is contagious. The Christian life is not a playground, it’s a battleground. Is there something frightening you right now? Jesus said, “Do not be afraid, only believe.” David said, “The Lord is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear?The Lord is the strength of my life, of whom then shall I be afraid?Psalm 27:1 Isaiah 41:10Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God.I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Proverbs 3:24–25You can sleep without fear; you need not be afraid of disaster or the plots of wicked men, for the Lord is with you. He protects you. Gideon lost two-thirds of his army. There is always God’s part and our part. The Red Sea parted but Israel still had to march through. The walls of Jericho fell but Israel still had to march around them. The giant Goliath fell but David still had to attack. 2 Chronicles 20:12O our God, won't you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You." The Lord told Gideon, “You still have too many warriors.” “Divide the men into two groups. The ones who just plant their face in the water without caution, leave them.” The lappers could have easily been ambushed and killed. The cuppers were alert, watching, and cautious. God gave Gideon the battle plan. No swords, knives, spears, or any kind of weapon, just clay jars and torches. The Midianites think it is some kind of ambush and they freak out.They begin to kill each other and the Israelites watch in amazement. The enemy was defeated because God’s people called on Him. Gideon’s army won a crushing victory over the Midianites. Ephesians 6:12For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood,but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms. There is no way we can impact our culture with the gospel without His help. So, we call on God and say, “If You don’t come through, there is no hope.” 2 Corinthians 12:9–10“My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me. Since I know it is all for Christ’s good. Paul concludes, “I am quite content with my weaknesses and with insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong!” It is not easy being a Christian in today’s culture.You will be criticized, mocked, slandered, possibly even killed. God imposed this test to get rid of the half-hearted people. God can do more with 300 committed people than 10,000 half-hearted. God is looking for faithful, obedient, watchful servants to change this world. “Give me 100 men who love God with all of their hearts and fear nothing but sin, and I will move the world!”—John Wesley Acts 17:6“Paul and Silas have turned the rest of the world upside down,and now they are here disturbing our city," they shouted. The Lord is looking for some men and women who will “blow the trumpet,”and take some chances and obey God, taking a stand first in their own homes. God can turn zeros into heros, fear into faith, hiding into fighting, and panic into purpose. Mark 5:36Don’t be afraid; only believe. Looking for hope or know someone who is? Join Greg Laurie at the Harvest Crusade: Hope for America on November 16! Get event information here. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a huge difference between how God judges believers and how He judges the world—and understanding this will completely change how you view God's discipline in your life.In this message from House Church in Kauai, Pastor Alex breaks down the difference between God's corrective discipline for His children and His final judgment on the world. Using the analogy of how a father corrects his own kids versus how he'd respond to strangers who hurt them, we explore what it really means when the Bible says there's “no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.”If you've ever felt like God is angry at you, or if you've confused His discipline with condemnation, this message will bring clarity and peace.Key Topics:* The two types of judgment in Scripture* Why God disciplines believers (1 Corinthians 11:32)* Understanding “no condemnation” in Romans 8:1* How God's discipline proves His love, not His wrath* What it means to be His child versus facing His judgmentThis message will help you: ✓ Stop fearing God's anger as a believer ✓ Understand why hardship happens in your life ✓ See God's discipline as an act of love ✓ Know the difference between correction and condemnation

What happens when the defender steps down from the wall? We are at war. Not against flesh and blood—but against an enemy who would love nothing more than to take men out of the fight. In this message, Pastor Joby calls men to be watchful, stand firm in the faith, and act like men as commanded in 1 Corinthians 16:13–14. From pride and worry to laziness, isolation, and lust—the enemy uses every tactic to destroy those called to protect and provide. But even when we fail, the gospel reminds us: failure is not final. God Himself restores, confirms, strengthens, and establishes His sons for the battle ahead. If you've ever felt distracted, defeated, or distant from your calling, this message is a wake-up call to get back on the wall and fight for what matters most—your faith, your family, and your future. Are you watching out, or have you let your guard down?

It's a universal experience: going through suffering but struggling to understand the “why” behind it. In the Apostle Paul's case, much of the reason behind his suffering was found in his subsequent ability to comfort others in similar situations. In this week's message from 2 Corinthians 1, Pastor J.D. helps us see what Paul learned about God's faithfulness through his pain. As we learn more about the character of God through our own suffering, we too will gain a testimony that speaks volumes to the unbelieving world.

When success feels restless, burnout recovery begins in surrender. This episode explores how to trust your path when progress feels slow — and why rest isn't stopping, but syncing with the One who began your becoming.If you've ever found yourself wondering why success still feels restless, this episode offers the spiritual recalibration your soul has been craving.In the Season Two finale of The Recalibration, Julie Holly invites high-capacity humans into a sacred exhale — a moment of burnout recovery and identity restoration through Vertical Integration: resting in alignment with the Author of Becoming.Drawing from Philippians 1:6, Romans 12:2, and 2 Corinthians 3:18, Julie reminds us that we're not self-made — we're Spirit-shaped. Real transformation doesn't happen through striving; it happens through surrender.Quoting Dr. Dan Allender (“You were created to live a story that reveals the glory of God”), she reframes your story as one being authored by love, not pressure. You'll hear why quiet seasons still count, why peace and progress can coexist, and how to live from trust instead of tension.This isn't another mindset tactic — it's Identity-Level Recalibration (ILR): the root-level shift that makes every other tool effective. You don't have to prove your growth; you can live it.Today's Micro Recalibration

Even in the face of fear and uncertainty, God is by your side as you walk toward His calling. We see that through the life of Gideon, a man from the smallest clan and the least in his family, yet led by God to do great things on His behalf. Notes: Focus verse - Judges 6 It seems like our culture has been turned upside down. Isaiah 5:20–21Destruction is certain for those who say that evil is good and good is evil; that dark is light and light is dark; that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter. When culture is upside down, hearts are anxious. 84% of Gen Z say they feel anxious or stressed regularly. 1 in 3 adults say they lose sleep over finances. Nearly 70% of Americans say the future makes them afraid. Top fears include failure, rejection, loneliness, global conflict, and health. We will look at a man named Gideon who was really afraid when Jesus came to him.He was hiding from his enemies, the Midianites. Jesus turns fearful into faithful,hiding into fighting, andpanic into purpose. Things were really turned upside down in the days of the book of Judges. Judges 17:6 (NLT)In those days Israel had no king; so the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes. God raised up 13 judges to guide His people through this difficult time. The book of Joshua is the story of conquest.While Judges is a book of unbelief and disobedience. Joshua is a book about people uniting around one man to lead them, JoshuaJudges is about “everyone doing what was right in their own eyes.” But whatever and wherever the time, Jesus will show up. Don’t just pray when you are in crisis.Remember also to thank God when things are going well. James 5:13 (NIV)Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray.Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. This was a time of crisis for Israel. It was the year 1256 b.c.Approximately 200 years had passed since Joshua had led the Israelites. They did not drive all the Canaanites out and they lived to regret it.The same can be true in our lives as Christians. 200 years later the Canaanites regained strength and began to dominate the Israelites. As Judges, chapter 6 opens, we see the Israelites living under the power of the Midianites. Israel was living in despair, and finally they called out to God to deliver them,and Jesus shows up. Jesus meets fearful people where they hide. As our story begins, we find Gideon hiding from his enemies.Hardly a picture of heroism and courage. Read Judges 6:11–14 Gideon wanted to know why this difficulty was happening.He had heard about the “good old days” but where was God now? Judges 6:13“Sir,” Gideon replied, “if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? “ The Christian life is full of difficult questions. 1 Corinthians 13:12“Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely.” So often we are looking for an answer to the why question when it is about a Who.As in, “Who do I turn to?” The answer to that question is Jesus. This was not a mere angel (as powerful as they are) this was Jesus. Why is this a Christophany instead an angelic appearance? The speaker at first is called, “The angel of the Lord.”But then the narrative shifts and simply calls Him, “The LORD (YHWH).” The messenger says, “I am sending you.”Judges 6:14 He uses the first-person pronoun and assumes divine authority. Gideon realizes he has seen God. Judges 6:22When Gideon realized that it was the angel of the Lord, he cried out, “Oh Sovereign Lord, I’m doomed! I have seen the angel of the Lord face to face!” Judges 6:15 (NLT)"But Lord," Gideon replied, "how can I rescue Israel? My clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!" Another translation says, “I am the runt of the litter!” God uses people who are humble. They are not proud and arrogant but see themselves for what they are. Giving hope to all the people out there who were not extraordinary but ordinary. God can do extraordinary things through ordinary people. God saw Gideon for what he would become. Gideon asks, “Who am I?”The Lord says, “That’s not the issue, ‘Who am I?’ for I will be with you!”Judges 6:15–16 The Lord calls Gideon a mighty hero. Judges 6:12The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!” We see failure, God sees potential.We see a vacillating, unsure Simon, God sees a rock like Peter. Before public victory, obey God at home. God’s first test for Gideon was in his home. Some people set the world on fire, while others are still looking for a match. I would rather try and fail than never try at all. Nicodemus had a weak beginning, but he had a strong ending.Better that than a strong beginning and a weak finish. Under cover of night, Gideon tore down the alter his father had erected. Instead of turning on his son, the father defends himand seems to have his own faith rekindled. Don’t give up on your family. You don’t need to preach sermons to them all day long.You need to show it by the way you live and decisions you make. You need to take a stand in your home. Are you reading scripture to your children? Are you praying with them?Are you taking them to church every Sunday? A survey was done that found if the mother and father attend church regularly,72 % of their children will also attend regularly when they’re young adults. When only the father attends, 55 % will remain faithful. But if only the mother attends regularly, only 15 % of the children will remain faithful. If neither mother nor father attend regularly, only 6 % will remain faithful. Gideon was able to rally 32,000 men. Read Judges 7:2–3 Fear is contagious. The Christian life is not a playground, it’s a battleground. Is there something frightening you right now? Jesus said, “Do not be afraid, only believe.” David said, “The Lord is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear?The Lord is the strength of my life, of whom then shall I be afraid?Psalm 27:1 Isaiah 41:10Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God.I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Proverbs 3:24–25You can sleep without fear; you need not be afraid of disaster or the plots of wicked men, for the Lord is with you. He protects you. Gideon lost two-thirds of his army. There is always God’s part and our part. The Red Sea parted but Israel still had to march through. The walls of Jericho fell but Israel still had to march around them. The giant Goliath fell but David still had to attack. 2 Chronicles 20:12O our God, won't you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You." The Lord told Gideon, “You still have too many warriors.” “Divide the men into two groups. The ones who just plant their face in the water without caution, leave them.” The lappers could have easily been ambushed and killed. The cuppers were alert, watching, and cautious. God gave Gideon the battle plan. No swords, knives, spears, or any kind of weapon, just clay jars and torches. The Midianites think it is some kind of ambush and they freak out.They begin to kill each other and the Israelites watch in amazement. The enemy was defeated because God’s people called on Him. Gideon’s army won a crushing victory over the Midianites. Ephesians 6:12For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood,but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms. There is no way we can impact our culture with the gospel without His help. So, we call on God and say, “If You don’t come through, there is no hope.” 2 Corinthians 12:9–10“My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me. Since I know it is all for Christ’s good. Paul concludes, “I am quite content with my weaknesses and with insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong!” It is not easy being a Christian in today’s culture.You will be criticized, mocked, slandered, possibly even killed. God imposed this test to get rid of the half-hearted people. God can do more with 300 committed people than 10,000 half-hearted. God is looking for faithful, obedient, watchful servants to change this world. “Give me 100 men who love God with all of their hearts and fear nothing but sin, and I will move the world!”—John Wesley Acts 17:6“Paul and Silas have turned the rest of the world upside down,and now they are here disturbing our city," they shouted. The Lord is looking for some men and women who will “blow the trumpet,”and take some chances and obey God, taking a stand first in their own homes. God can turn zeros into heros, fear into faith, hiding into fighting, and panic into purpose. Mark 5:36Don’t be afraid; only believe. Looking for hope or know someone who is? Join Greg Laurie at the Harvest Crusade: Hope for America on November 16! Get event information here. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's Scripture passages are Jeremiah 51:36-58 | 2 Kings 24:10-19 | 2 Chronicles 36:10-14 | Jeremiah 52:1-2 | Jeremiah 37:1-21 | 2 Corinthians 11:1-15.Read by Ekemini Uwan.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

Title: Stewards the Gospel Preacher: Jamie Dunlop Series: The Wisdom of God Passage: 1 Corinthians 4:1-7

In this message, Pastor Brandon breaks down Jesus' powerful teaching in Matthew 6:1–18 — exposing the difference between doing the right thing for the wrong reason and living for the audience of One.   Jesus warned that even good spiritual disciplines — giving, praying, and fasting — can be corrupted by pride when our goal is to be seen by men. The question isn't just what we do for God… it's why we do it.   When you give in secret, pray sincerely, and fast privately, Jesus promises that “your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.” It's not about religious performance — it's about pure motives, private devotion, and eternal reward at the Judgment Seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10).   Discover how to: ✅ Guard your heart from hypocrisy ✅ Develop a private devotional life that pleases God ✅ Trade human applause for heavenly reward  

Topics: Christians and Tattoos, Judgmental Attitudes Toward Tattoos, Misusing Leviticus 19:28, Think Before You Ink, The Pain of Tattoo Removal, Lessons From Laser Treatments, Freedom in Christ (Galatians 5:1), The Law and Tattoos, The Commandments Given to Israel (Exodus 19:8), Gentiles Were Never Given the Law (Ephesians 2:12), All or Nothing Law Obedience, The Curse of the Law (Galatians 3:10), No More Animal Sacrifices, Hebrews 9:22, Jesus the Final Priest, The Temple Destroyed In AD70, No Modifying the Law (Deuteronomy 4:2), Perfection or Bust (Matthew 5:48), The Law Replaced by Grace (Romans 6:14), The New Covenant Replaces the Old (Hebrews 8:13), Jesus Fulfilled the Law (Romans 8:3-4), It Is Finished (John 19:30), The Blood That Began the New Covenant (Hebrews 9:16-18), Jesus Greater Than Moses (Hebrews 3:3), Better Promises of the New Covenant (Hebrews 8:6), Our Inheritance in Christ, God Looks at the Heart (1 Samuel 16:7), The New Heart (Ezekiel 36:26), The Spirit Replaced the Law (Galatians 3:24-25), The Law is a Ministry of Death (2 Corinthians 3), Sin Increases Under the Law (Romans 5:20), Dead to the Law Alive to God (Galatians 2:19), Jesus the Lamb of God, The Law's Purpose, 1 Timothy 1:7-11, Jesus' Tattoo on His Thigh (Revelation 19:16), The Spirit's Guidance in All Things, Enjoying Freedom in ChristSupport the showSign up for Matt's free daily devotional! https://mattmcmillen.com/newsletter

There's a huge difference between how God judges believers and how He judges the world—and understanding this will completely change how you view God's discipline in your life.In this message from House Church in Kauai, Pastor Alex breaks down the difference between God's corrective discipline for His children and His final judgment on the world. Using the analogy of how a father corrects his own kids versus how he'd respond to strangers who hurt them, we explore what it really means when the Bible says there's “no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.”If you've ever felt like God is angry at you, or if you've confused His discipline with condemnation, this message will bring clarity and peace.Key Topics:* The two types of judgment in Scripture* Why God disciplines believers (1 Corinthians 11:32)* Understanding “no condemnation” in Romans 8:1* How God's discipline proves His love, not His wrath* What it means to be His child versus facing His judgmentThis message will help you: ✓ Stop fearing God's anger as a believer ✓ Understand why hardship happens in your life ✓ See God's discipline as an act of love ✓ Know the difference between correction and condemnation

1 Corinthians 10: Failure Is Inevitable (1 Corinthians - Untangling Church) taught by Pastor Dave Rolph on 10-26-25.

John 8:3–6a NIV The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group and said to Jesus, ‘Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say? They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.John 8:6b–9 But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with His finger. When they kept questioning Him, He straightened up and said, ‘Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.' Again, He stooped down and wrote on the ground. At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there.John 8:10–11 Jesus straightened up and asked her, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?' ‘No one, sir,' she said. ‘Then neither do I condemn you,' Jesus declared. ‘Go now and leave your life of sin.'1. Forgiveness — BELIEVE It1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.Psalm 51:1–4 Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins.   Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin.   For I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night.   Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgment against me is just.2 Corinthians 7:10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation andleaves no regret, but worldly sorrow leads to death.Psalm 103:11–12 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.2. Forgiveness — EXTEND ItForgiveness means releasing your RIGHT to RETALIATE.Matthew 6:14–15 If you forgive others when they sin against you, your heavenlyFather will forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.Romans 12:18–19 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace witheveryone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord.3. Forgiveness — ACCEPT ItRomans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.Psalm 32:5 Then I acknowledged my sin to You and did not cover up my iniquity.I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,' and You forgave the guilt of my sin.”There's NOTHING you could do that would cause God not to FORGIVE your sin.John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.John 3:17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.“Control the things you can control—and the things you can't, surrender them to God.”—Dr. Henry Cloud“We look most like animals when we kill.We look most like humans when we judge.But we look most like God when we forgive.”—Unknown

One of the biggest questions parents are asking today is, “How do we raise positive kids in such a negative world?” In this message, Chip explains that God has a plan for parenting and the Bible clearly lays it out. If you long to strengthen the relationships with your children and increase the joy in your parenting journey, the first step begins here.Four principles for positive parentingEffective parenting begins with positive CLEAR-CUT OBJECTIVES! -Ephesians 6:4Effective parenting demands we PRACTICE what we PREACH. -1 Corinthians 4:14-16Effective parents build relationships that BOND. -1 Thessalonians 2:7-8, 11-128 “Keys” that build relationships that bond UNCONDITIONAL loveScheduled TIMEFOCUSED attentionEYE contactONGOING communication Meaningful TOUCH Have FUN together PRAY together oftenEffective parenting requires CONSTANT REPAIR and ONGOING MAINTENANCE. -1 John 1:9Broadcast ResourceDownload Free MP3Message NotesAdditional Resource MentionsMarriage Truth Cards Offer"Uninvited Guests" ResourcesConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003

Today's Scripture passages are Jeremiah 51:1-35 | Ezekiel 5 - 6 | 2 Corinthians 10. Read by Christina Edmondson.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

1) Would you agree that 1 Corinthians 14 teaches that women are commanded to keep silent once, but men are commanded to be silent twice?2) Can you speak to the issue of the doctrine of the Rapture coming from a girl who prophesied in a tongues meeting and then was promoted by Dr. Scofield?3) Are there two comings of Christ?4) When Jesus was tempted by Satan, could He have sinned?5) Why do you say the star the wise men saw was a western star?6) How high was the star over the house of Jesus?7) If the church is raptured how can the Tribulation saints of Revelation 20 be part of the first resurrection?8) What is the difference between a "sin" and "transgression" used in 1 John 3:4?

What does the Bible really say about demons, witchcraft, and the occult?In this powerful episode of Behind the Mike Podcast with Mike Stone, we go beyond Hollywood myths and cultural trends to expose the real spiritual battle happening all around us.You'll learn:• Where demons come from — and what they're actually capable of• Why “harmless” occult practices like astrology, crystals, and manifestation are more dangerous than they appear• How Satan disguises himself as “light” to deceive the world• Biblical stories that reveal the truth about demonic influence and possession• How believers can find freedom and stand firm in Christ's authorityWhether you've dabbled in occult practices or simply want to understand what's happening in our culture, this episode will equip you with truth, courage, and discernment.

THE SOUL 14: Answering the handful of scriptures that some use to argue for souls living on immediately after the death of the body, Part 1: Genesis 35:16-20, 1 Kings 17:21-22, Acts 20:10, 2 Corinthians 5:1-11, and Philippians 1:21-26Send us a textSupport the showThank you for listening to our podcast!If you have any questions, subjects you would like to hear discussed, or feedback of any kind, you can contact us at:greengac@yahoo.com or through the links below, where you can find additional information about our work as well as other materials: Green Gospel Assembly Church – The Church that is Different (church website)

Hello Friends! I love to hear from you! Please send me a text message by clicking on this link! Blessings to You!In this episode, Dr. Jori discusses with her listeners the exhortation of the writer of the letter to the Hebrews not to forsake assembling together, but encouraging one another and all the more as  you see the day drawing near. Scripture References: Hebrews 10:25; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:21; Hebrews 13:22; Hebrews 1:1-5; Genesis 12:3; Romans 7:7; Galatians 4:4-7; Hebrews 10:19-25; Proverbs 18:1; 2 Corinthians 5:7 Scripture translation used is the Legacy Standard Bible.  “Scripture quotations taken from the (LSB®) Legacy Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2021 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.org and 316publishing.comFIND DR. JORI ON OTHER PLATFORMS https://linktr.ee/drjorishafferCHECK OUT THE DWELL AUDIO BIBLE APP:Click this link for my unique referral code.  I use this frequently. Such a wonderful audio bible app. https://dwellapp.io/aff?ref=jorishafferBIBLE STUDY TOOLS DR. JORI USES:Note: These contain  Amazon affiliate links, meaning I get a commission, at no extra cost to you,  if you decide to make a purchase through my links.Here is a link to some of my favorite bible study tools on Amazon:https://geni.us/cHtrfEMr. Pen Bible Journaling Kitshttps://lvnta.com/lv_PTrHSCogbRim4yhEDnhttps://lvnta.com/lv_mkaMOuGe6m4oHR88uqhttps://lvnta.com/lv_dgvsxOc99t663A628z  JOIN DR. JORI IN DEVOTIONAL JOURNALING IN 2025Check out this 9 min YouTube Video outlining her journaling strategy! Don't Forget to subscribe to the YouTube Channel! https://youtu.be/lqe9TO7RSz4 BOOKS OF BIBLE COLOR CHARTI made this chart as a helpful tool for grouping the collections of books or letters  in the Holy Bible.  The colors in the different sections are the ones that I use in my journals.  Books of Bible Chart (color) (4).pdf - Google Drive    LOOKING TO RETAIN MORE OF WHAT YOUR PASTOR IS TEACHING?              CHECK OUT DR. JORI'S SERMON REFLECTION JOURNALS! Sermon Notes, Reflections and Applications Journal/Notebooks by Dr. Jori. Click the links below to be directed to amazon.com for purchase. Or search “Dr. Jori Shaffer” on Amazon to bring these up.  https://amzn.to/418LfRshttps://amzn.to/41862EyHere is a brief YouTube video that tells about the Journal/Notebooks as well:https://youtu.be/aXpQNYUEzds   Email: awordforthisday@gmail.comPodcast website:  https://awordforthisday.buzzsprout.com Support the show

Análise pós-jogo das partidas de Atlético-MG x Ceará e Vitória x Corinthians, pela Série A do Campeonato Brasileiro. Vem com a turma! Vitória fica com um jogador a mais e mesmo assim leva gol que sacramentou a derrota diante do Corinthians no Barradão. Resultado mantém o Leão no Z4. Situação complicada para a reta final. […]

Send us a textWhat if the entire logic of the gospel hinges on one daring claim: God made every nation from one man? We take you to Athens with Paul and walk through Acts 17 to show how he introduces the “unknown God” by starting at the beginning—creation, purpose, and the reality of a literal Adam. Not as a symbol or a myth, but as the historical foundation for why sin is universal and why the grace of the last Adam, Jesus Christ, is necessary and sufficient.Together, we explore why “one blood” dismantles the false hierarchies that evolutionary thinking has too often reinforced, and how Scripture gives a better, richer account of human dignity and unity. We address the rising tide of theistic evolution inside the church, the interpretive maneuvers it requires, and the hidden cost to the gospel's coherence when Adam and Eve are reduced to archetypes. Along the way, we contrast what science can brilliantly explain—how—with what only revelation can disclose—why. From the blind men and the elephant to Homer's Odyssey, from Genesis to Romans and Corinthians, we connect cultural touchpoints to biblical clarity.We also widen the lens: God not only creates humanity; He controls history. Nations rise and fall on His timetable; borders shift under His sovereign hand. That doesn't excuse apathy—it anchors our hope. If you've wrestled with origins, human purpose, or the tension between mainstream science and Scripture, this conversation offers a thoughtful path forward: trust the God who speaks, who made us from one, and who remakes us in Christ into a new, redeemed people.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves big questions, and leave a review with your take on Adam, origins, and the gospel. Your voice helps more listeners find these conversations.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

2 Corinthians

In this profound episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb delve deeply into the Parable of the Tares (Matthew 13:24-30), exploring its implications for Christian assurance. Building on their previous discussion, they examine how this parable speaks to the mixed nature of the visible church, the sovereignty of Christ over His kingdom, and most significantly, the doctrine of assurance. Through careful theological reflection, the hosts unpack how true believers can find solid ground for assurance not in their own works or fruit-checking, but in the promises of Christ and the testimony of the Holy Spirit. This episode offers both encouragement for those struggling with doubts and a sobering challenge to those resting in false assurance. Key Takeaways The Parable of the Tares teaches that the visible church will be mixed until the final judgment, containing both true believers (wheat) and false professors (tares) who may appear outwardly similar. True assurance is not based primarily on good works but on the promises of Christ, the inward testimony of the Holy Spirit, and the evidences of grace in our lives. False assurance is a real danger, as many who think they belong to Christ will discover at the final judgment that they never truly knew Him. The Westminster Confession of Faith (Chapter 18) provides a helpful framework for understanding biblical assurance as the proper possession of every Christian. Christ's role as the divine Master of the house (the world) and Lord of the angels is subtly yet powerfully affirmed in this parable, grounding our assurance in His sovereignty. Good works are the fruit of assurance, not its cause—when we are secure in our salvation, we are freed to serve Christ joyfully rather than anxiously trying to earn assurance. The final judgment will bring perfect clarity, revealing what was hidden and separating the wheat from the tares with divine precision that humans cannot achieve now. The Doctrine of Assurance: Reformed Understanding The Reformed tradition has always emphasized that believers can and should have assurance of their salvation—a conviction recovered during the Reformation in contrast to Rome's teaching. As Tony noted when reading from the Westminster Confession of Faith (Chapter 18), this assurance is "not a bare conjectural and probable persuasion grounded upon a fallible hope, but an infallible assurance of faith founded upon the divine truth of the promises of salvation." This assurance rests on three pillars: the promises of God in Scripture, the inward evidence of grace, and the testimony of the Holy Spirit witnessing with our spirit. What makes this understanding particularly comforting is that it shifts the foundation of assurance away from our performance to God's faithfulness. While self-examination has its place, the Reformed understanding recognizes that looking too intensely at our own hearts and works can lead either to despair or to false confidence. Instead, we're directed to look primarily to Christ and His finished work, finding in Him the anchor for our souls. The Problem of False Assurance One of the most sobering aspects of the Parable of the Tares is its implicit warning about false assurance. Just as the tares resemble wheat until maturity reveals their true nature, many professing Christians may outwardly appear to belong to Christ while inwardly remaining unregenerate. As Jesse observed, "The tares typically live under false assurance. They may attend church, confess belief, appear righteous, yet their hearts are unregenerate. Their faith is maybe historical, it's not saving, it could be intellectual, but it's not spiritual." This echoes Jesus' warning in Matthew 7 that many will say to Him, "Lord, Lord," but will hear the devastating response, "I never knew you." The parable teaches us that this self-deception is not always conscious hypocrisy but often the result of spiritual blindness. As Jesse noted, referencing Romans 1, Ephesians 4, and 1 Corinthians 2, the unregenerate are "not merely ignorant, they're blinded... to the spiritual truth by nature and by Satan." This understanding should prompt humble self-examination while simultaneously driving us to depend not on our own discernment but on Christ's perfect knowledge and saving work. Memorable Quotes "Assurance is the believer's arc where he sits Noah alike quiets and still in the midst of all distractions and destructions, commotions and confusions." - Thomas Brooks, quoted by Jesse Schwamb "When we are confessing, repenting, seeking like our status in Christ because of Christ, then we have confidence that we are in fact part of the children of God. When everything is stripped away from us and all we're crying out is only and completely and solely and unequivocally Jesus Christ, then I think we have great reason to understand that we should be confident in our assurance." - Jesse Schwamb "The sacrifice and the service that a husband performs for his wife, whom he loves and trusts and is committed to and knows that she's faithful and committed to him, that is not causing that faithfulness. It's not causing that trust and that love. It is the outcome and the outflow of it." - Tony Arsenal on how good works flow from assurance rather than cause it Resources Mentioned Scripture: Matthew 13:24-30, Matthew 7:21-23, Romans 1, Ephesians 4, 1 Corinthians 2, 2 Timothy 3:5 Westminster Confession of Faith: Chapter 18 "Of Assurance of Grace and Salvation" Thomas Brooks: "Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices" YouTube Channel: My Wild Backyard Khan Academy: Educational resource recommended during "Affirmations and Denials" segment Full Transcript Jesse Schwamb: Welcome to episode 466 of the Reform the Brotherhood. I'm Jesse. Tony Arsenal: And I'm Tony. And this is the podcast with ears to hear. Hey brother. Jesse Schwamb: Hey brother. We're going back to the farm again. Can't stop. Won't stop. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. I'm stoked. [00:01:02] Discussion on the Parable of the Tears Tony Arsenal: The last week's discussion was interesting and I think, um, it's gonna be nice to sort of round it out and talk about some things you might not think about, uh, when you first read this parable. So I'm, I'm pretty excited. Jesse Schwamb: Oh, what a tease that is. So if you're wondering what Tony's talking about, we're hanging out. In Matthew 13, we are just really enjoying these teachings of Jesus. And they are shocking and they're challenging, and they're encouraging, and they're awesome, of course. And so we're gonna be finishing out the Parable of the Tears and you need to go back and listen to the previous conversation. This, this is all set up because we have some unfinished business. We didn't talk about the eschatological implications. We have this really big this, this matza ball hanging over us. So to speak, which was the, do the TAs in this parable even know that they are tarry, that they are the TAs? And so in this parable, the disciples learn that the kingdom itself, God's kingdom, the kingdom that Jesus is enumerating and explaining and bringing into being, they are learning that it's gonna be mixed in character. So that's correcting this expectation that the kingdom would be perfectly pure and would have, would evolve righteous rule over all of the unrighteous world. And so it's a little bit shocking that Jesus says, listen, they're gonna be. Tears within the wheats that is in the world, the seed that God himself, the sun has planted and that they're gonna exist side by side for a long time. And so we, they have to wait patiently and give ourselves to building up the wheats as the sons of the kingdom and be careful in their judgment, not to harm those who are believers. We covered a lot of that last week, but left so much unsaid we couldn't even fit it in. This is gonna be jam packed, so I'm gonna stop giving the tees instead start moving us into affirmations and denials. [00:02:45] Affirmations and Denials Jesse Schwamb: It's of course that time in our conversation where we either affirm with something really like or we think is undervalued or we deny against something that we don't really like or is a little overvalued. So as I usually say to you, Tony, what have you got for us? [00:03:00] YouTube Channel Recommendation: My Wild Backyard Tony Arsenal: I am affirming a YouTube channel. Um, I, I think the algorithm goes through these cycles where it wants me to learn about bugs and things because I get Okay, like videos about bugs. And so I'm, I'm interested. There's been this, uh, channel that's been coming up on my algorithm lately called My Wild Backyard, and it, it's a guy, he's like an entomologist. He seems like a, a like a legit academic, but what he does is he basically goes through and he talks about different bugs, creepy crawlies, looks at like snakes, all that kinds of stuff. It seems like his wheelhouse is the stuff that can kill you or hurt you pretty bad. Nice. But, um, it's interesting and it's. It's good educational content. It's, you know, it's not sensationalized, it's not, uh, it's not dramatized. Um, it's very real. There's occasionally an instance where he, he's not, sometimes he will intentionally get bit or stung by an, uh, by an animal to show you what it does. So he can experience and explain what he's experiencing. And sometimes he just accidentally gets bit or stung. And so those are some of the most interesting ones. So like, for example, just looking at his, his channel, his most recent, um, his most recent video is called The most venomous Desert Creatures in the US ranked the one previous was. The world's most terrifying arachni isn't a spider. And then previous to that was what happens if a giant centipede bites you? So it's interesting stuff. If you are one of those people that likes bugs and likes creepy crawlies and things, um, this is definitely the channel for you if you're not one of those people. I actually think this probably is the channel for you too. 'cause it kind of demystifies a lot of this stuff. Um. You know, for example, he, he will commonly point out that, um, spiders don't wanna bite you and they just wanna leave you alone. And, and as long as you leave them alone, even, even something like a black widow, which people are terrified of, and I think, right, rightfully so. I mean, they can be scary. Those can be scary bites. He'll, he'll handle those, no problem. And as long as he's not like putting downward pressure on them, uh, they have no interest in biting, they really just want to get away. So even seeing that kind of stuff, I think can help demystify and, and sort of, uh, make it a little bit easier. So my Wild Backyard, he can find it on YouTube. Um, he's safe for kids. He's not, he's not cussing even. I mean, I think occasionally when he gets bit on accident, you might, you know, you might have a beep here or there, but, um, he's not, he's not regularly swearing or things like that. And he does a pretty good job of adding that stuff out. Jesse Schwamb: What a great title for that, isn't it? This, yeah. Confluence of your backyard. That space that seems domesticated is also stealing its own. Right. Wild. And there's a be Yeah. Both those things coming together. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. It, it's interesting stuff and it's really good. I mean, it's really compelling videography. He does a good job of taking good photos. You'll see insects that you usually won't see, or spiders you usually won't see. Um, so yeah, it's cool. Check it out. [00:05:51] Discussion on Spiders and Creepy Crawlies Jesse Schwamb: What are you, uh, yeah, I myself would like to become more comfortable with the arachni variety. If only be, I mean, I don't know. It's, it's a weird creature, so my instinct is to be like, kill them all. And then if I can't find them and I know they're around, then we just burn everything that we own. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Jesse Schwamb: They just can't sink into the ground fast enough. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. There's something about the way they move, like their, their bodies don't move the way you would anticipate them to. Right. And it freaks, it just weirds out human sensibilities, so. Right. Jesse Schwamb: They're also like, I find them to be very surprising. Often. It's not kind of a, a very like, kind of measured welcome into your life. It's like you just go to get in the shower and there's a giant spider. Yeah. Oh yeah. Although I guess that spider, he's, he or she's probably like, whoa, where'd you come from? You know, like, yeah. He's like, I was just taking a Tony Arsenal: shower. You know what's interesting? Um, I saw another video was on a different channel, um, like common jumping spiders. Yeah. Which there are like hundreds of species of common jumping spiders. Jesse Schwamb: True. Tony Arsenal: Um, but spiders and jumping spiders specifically, actually you can form almost like a pet bond with, so like the, that jumping spider that like lives in your house and sees you every day. He, he probably knows who you are and is like, comfortable with you. And they've done studies that like you can actually domesticate jumping spiders, so they're not as foreign and alien as you might think. Although they certainly do look a little bit strange and weird. And the way their bodies move is almost designed to weird out people like it just the skinness, like the way their legs skitter and move it, it just is, it's, it triggers something very primal in us to That's wild. Be weirded out by it. Yeah. Jesse Schwamb: It's wild. I love it. That's a good, a affirmation. I'm definitely gonna check that out. I, any, anything? I really want to know what the, what like the terrifying arachni is. That's not a spider. Tony Arsenal: It's a, well, it's called a camel spider, but it's not really a spider. Oh, Jesse Schwamb: I know what you're talking about. That is kind of terrifying. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. They, they actually don't have any venom. Um, yeah. Check out the video. I mean, it, it was a good video. Um, but yeah, they're freaky looking and, um, but even that, like he was handling it No problem. Yeah. Like it wasn't, it wasn't aggressive with him once Wow. Once it figured out it wasn't, he wasn't trying to hurt him and, and that it couldn't eat him. Um, it, it just sort of like hung out until he let it go. So Jesse Schwamb: yeah, just be careful if you watch it one before bed or while in bed. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Probably not right before bed. Yeah. You'll, you'll get the creepy crawlies all night. Jesse Schwamb: I love it. But there's something somewhat. Like invigorating about that isn't there? Like it's, it's kind of a natural, just like kind of holy respect for the world that God has created, that they're these features that are so different, so wild, so interesting and a little bit frightening, but in the sense that we just draw off from them because they're so different than what we are. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Jesse Schwamb: And you know, again, there's places you would be happy to see them, but maybe your bathtub or like shooting out, like, you know, like where you live, the jumping spiders are legit and they will just pop out on you, you know? Yeah. You're just doing your own thing and then all of a sudden they're popping out. I think part of that is just that what, what gets me is like them just, you know, like I remember in my basement here, once one popped out from a rafter and then I was holding, happened to be holding up broom. My instinct just naturally was to hit it. I hit it with the broom and it went across the room and fell on an empty box and sounded like a silver dollar had hit the box. Like it was just a massive, I mean, again, like, it's like fish stories, like it's a massive spider. It was a big spider. Yeah. But you just don't expect to, to see that kind of thing. Or maybe, maybe I should, but anything that moves in that way, and again, like centipedes, man, forget it. We have those too, like in our basement. Like the long ones. Oh yeah. Yeah. That thing will come like squiggling down the wall at you, like eye level and you just wanna run up the stairs screaming like a little girl. Tony Arsenal: Yeah, you do run up the stairs screaming like a little girl. It's not that you want to, it's that usually you do. I don't mean like you specifically, although probably you specifically. Yeah. Oh yeah. Oh yeah. There's, yeah, you just react. Well, j Jesse enough freaking out. I mean, we're getting close to Halloween, so I suppose it's appropriate, but, uh, enough of that. What are you affirming or denying today? Jesse Schwamb: Once again, without like any coordination, mine is not unlike yours. I know you and I, we talk about the world in which we live, which God has created, and this lovely command, this ammunition to take dominion over that. And one of the things I appreciate about our conversations is I think you and I often have maybe not like a novel. Kinda perspective on that, but one that I don't hear talked about often and that is this idea of taking dominion over what it is possible to know and to appropriate, and then to apply onto wisdom. [00:10:27] Affirmation: Khan Academy Jesse Schwamb: And so my information is in that realm. It's another form of taking ownership of what's in the wild of knowledge that you can possess. And again, equal parts. What an amazing time to be alive. So I'm affirming with the website, Khan Academy, which I'm sure many are familiar with. And this website offers like. Thousands of hours. Uh, and materials of free instructional videos, practice exercises, quizzes, all these like really bespoke, personalized learning modules you can create for topics like math, science, computing, economics, history, art. I think it goes like even starting at like. Elementary age all the way up into like early college can help you study for things like the SAT, the LSAT AP courses, and I was revisiting it. I have an open account with them that I keep in love and I go back to it from time to time. And I was working on some stuff where I wanted to rehearse some knowledge in like the calculus space, do some things by hand, which I haven't done. And I was just like, I'm blown away at how good this stuff is. And it's all for free. I mean, you should donate if you. You get something from this because it's a nonprofit, but the fact that there are these amazing instructional videos out there that can help us get a better understanding of either things we already know and we can rehearse the knowledge or to learn something brand new essentially for free. But somebody's done all the hard work to curate a pedagogy for you. Honestly, this is incredible. So if you haven't looked at that website in a long time or maybe ever, and you might be thinking, what, what do I really wanna learn? Lemme tell you. There's a lot of interesting stuff there and it's so approachable and it's such a good website for teaching. And if you have children in particular, even if you're looking for help, either helping them with their own coursework or maybe to have like kind of a tutor on the side, this is so good. So I can't say enough good things recently about Khan Academy 'cause it's been so helpful to me and super fun to like just sit and have your own paced study and in the private and comfort of your own home or your desk at work or wherever it is that you need to learn it. To be able to have somebody teach you some things, to do a little practice exercises, and then to go on to the world and to apply the things you've learned. Ah, it's so good. Tony Arsenal: Nice. Yeah, I've, I've never done anything with Khan Academy. I'll have to check it out. There's, um, there's some skills of needing to brush up on, uh, at work that I am probably not gonna be able to find in my normal channels, so I'll have to see if there is anything going on there. Um, but yeah, that's, that's good stuff. And it's free. Love freestyle. It's, and of course, like Jesse Schwamb: things like this are legion. So whatever it is, whatever your discipline or your field of study or work is, there's probably something out there and, uh, might, I humbly maybe encourage you to, if you use something like that and it's funded by donations, it's worth giving, I think, because again, it's just an amazing opportunity to take dominion over the knowledge that God has placed into the world and then to use it for something. I mean, I suppose even if all it is is you just wanna learn more about, like for me, I, I find like the subjects of, of math and science, like just endlessly fascinating and like the computing section I was looking at, I, I don't know much about like programming per se, but there is such a beauty. Like these underlying principles, like the, the organization of the world and the first level principles of like physics for instance, are just like baffling in the most glorious kind of way. How they all come together. So having somebody like teach you at a very like simplistic level, but allow you to grasp those concepts makes you just appreciate it leads me to doxology a lot when I see these things. So in a weird way, it ends up becoming maybe not a weird way and the right way. It becomes worship as often as I'm sitting at my desk and working through like a practice problem on like, you know, partial differential equation or, or derivatives is what I was working on today. And ah, it's just so good. I don't know, maybe I'm the only one. I, it's not be super nerdy, but you, are you ever like at your desk studying something? And it might not be like theological per se, but you just have a moment where you're overcome with some kind of worship. Do you know what I'm talking about? Tony Arsenal: Yeah, I, um, this we're the nerdiest people on the planet, but let's Jesse Schwamb: do it. Um, Tony Arsenal: when I find a really fun, interesting. Uh, Excel formula and I can get it to work right. Uh, and it, and then it just like everything unlocks. Like, I feel like I've unlocked all the knowledge in the universe. Um, but yeah, I hear you like the, the Excel thing is, is interesting to me because, like, math is just the description. Like it's just the fabric of reality is just the way we describe reality. But the fact that we can do basically just take math and do all these amazing things with it, uh, in a spreadsheet is really, uh, drives me to praise. Like I said, that's super nerdy, but it is. Oh, you're speaking my language. Jesse Schwamb: I, we have never understood each other better than just this moment right now. We, we had some real talk and, uh, a real moment. Tony Arsenal: Yes. Welcome to the Reformed math cast. Jesse Schwamb: We're so glad that you're here. Tony Arsenal: Yes. We're not gonna do any one plus one plus one equals one kinds of heretical math in, up in here. Jesse Schwamb: No. Tony Arsenal: Well, Jesse, I have a feeling that, excuse me. Wow. Jesse Schwamb: We don't edit anything out. Listen, I'm choked up too. It's it, listen, love ones just so emotional. The moment Tony and I are having it. We're gonna try our best right now to pivot to go into this text, but it's, it's tough because we were just really having something, something special. You got, you got to see there. But thank you for trying to Tony Arsenal: cover for me for that big cough. Jesse Schwamb: This is like presuppositional editing. You know, we don't actually do anything in post. It's not ex anti editing. It's, it's literally presuppositional. [00:15:52] Theological Discussion on Assurance Jesse Schwamb: But to that end, we are in Matthew 13. This is the main course. This is the reason why we're here. There's lots of reasons to worship, and one of them is to come before and admire and love our God who has given us his specific revelation and this incredible teaching of his son. And that's why we're hanging out in Matthew 13. So let me read, because we have just a couple of really sentences here, this really short parable and that way it'll catch us up and then we can just launch right back into we're, we're basically like, we're already in the rocket. Like we're in the stratosphere. We're, we're taking it all the way now. So this is Matthew chapter 13. Come hang out here. It's in the 24th verse. And this is what we find written for us. This is the word of the Lord. He put another parable before them saying. The Kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the weeds and went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also, and the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds? He said to them, an enemy has done this. So the servant said to him, then, do you want us to go and gather them? But he said, no less than gathering the weeds, you root up the weed along with them. Let both grow until the harvest. And at harvest time, I will tell the reapers, gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but to gather the wheat into my barn. Tony Arsenal: That's good stuff. That's good stuff. Um, you know, we, we covered most of. I don't know, what do you wanna call it? The first order reading of the parable last week. Jesse Schwamb: Right. Tony Arsenal: On one level, the parable, uh, as Christ explains it, uh, a little bit down further in the chapter is extremely straightforward. It's almost out, it's almost an allegory. Each, each element of the parable has a, a, a figure that it's representing. And the main purpose of the story is that the world and specifically the church, um, is going to be a mixed body until the last days, until the end of time. And so there's, there's the Sons of God or the Sons of the Kingdom, uh, and then there's the sons of the evil one. And we talked a lot about how. These two figures in the parable, the, the, the weeds or the tears? Um, tears is a better word because it's a specific kind of, uh, specific kind of weed that looks very much like wheat at its immature stages. Right. And you can't actually discern the difference readily, uh, until the weed and the wheat has grown up next to each other. Um, and so, so part of the parable is that. The, the sons of the kingdom and the sons of the enemy, or the sons of the evil one, they don't look all that different in their early stages. And it's not until the sort of end culmination of their lives and the end culmination of things that they're able to be discerned and then therefore, um, the, the sons of the devil are, are reaped and they go off to their eternal judgment and the sons of the kingdom are, uh, are harvested and they go off to their eternal reward. What we wanted to talk about, and part of the reason that we split this into two episodes. Is that we sort of found ourselves spiraling or spiraling around a question about, uh, sort of about assurance, right? And false assurance, true assurance. And there is an eschatological element to this parable that I, I think we probably should at least touch on as we we go through it. Um, but I wanted to just read, um, it's been a little while since we've read the Westminster Confession on the show. So I wanted to read a little bit from the Westminster Confession. Um, this is from chapter 18, which is called of assurance of grace and salvation. This is sort of the answer to Jesse's question. Do the, do the tears know their tears or, or could they possibly think that their wheat? So this is, uh, section one of chapter eight. It says, although hypocrites and other unregenerate men may vainly deceive themselves with false hopes and carnal presuppositions or presumptions of being in favor with God in the state of salvation. Which hope of their shall perish yet such as truly believe in the Lord Jesus and love him in sincerity, endeavoring to walk in all good conscience before him may in this life be certainly assured that they are in a state of grace and may rejoice in the hope of the glory of God, which hope shall never make them ashamed. And so we, in the reform tradition at least, which is where we find ourselves in the reform tradition, um, we would affirm that people can. Deceive themselves into believing that they're in proper relation with God. Jesse Schwamb: Right? Tony Arsenal: And so it's not the case that, uh, that the weeds always know they're weeds or think they're weeds. It's not even the case. And this was part of the parable. It's not even the case that the weeds can be easily distinguished even by themselves from, uh, from the weeds. So there is this call, uh, and this is a biblical call. There's a call to seek out assurance and to lay claim to it. That I think is, is worth talking about. But it's not as straightforward as simple proposition as like, yeah, I'm confident. Like it's not just like, right, it's not just mustering up confidence. There's more to it than that. So that's what I wanted to start with, with this parable is just maybe talking through that assurance. 'cause I, I would hate for us to go through this parable. And sort of leave people with maybe you're a weed and you don't know it. 'cause that's not right. That's not the biblical picture of assurance. Um, that's the, that's the Roman Catholic picture of assurance that like, yeah, there's no such thing as assurance and people might not realize, but assurance of salvation is actually one of the, one of the primary things that was recovered particularly by the Reformed in the Reformation. Um, and so I think we, we often sort of overlook it as maybe a secondary thing. Um, but it really is a significant doctrine, a significant feature of reformed theology. Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. I'm glad you said that because it is a, is a clear reminder. It's a clearing call as the performers put forth that it is. Under like the purview of the Christian to be able to claim the assurance by the blood of Christ in the application of the Holy Spirit in a way that's like fully orbed and fully stopped. So you can contrast that with, and really what was coming outta Catholicism or Rome at the time. And I was just speaking with a dear brother this past week who. Grew up in the Catholic church and he was recounting how his entire religious experience, even his entire relationship, if we can call it that in a kind of colloquial sense with God, was built around this sense of deep-seated guilt and lack of true performance, such that like assurance always seemed like this really vague concept that was never really fully manifested in anything that he did. Even while the church was saying, if you do these things, if you perform this way, if you ensure that you're taking care of your immortal sins and that you're seeking confession for all the venial stuff as well, that somehow you'll be made right, or sufficiently right. But if not, don't worry about it. There's always purgatory, but there'd be some earning that you'd have to accomplish there. Everywhere along the way. He just felt beaten down. So contrasting that with what we have here. I don't believe, as you're saying, Tony, that's Jesus' intention here to somehow beat up the sheep. I, I think it is, to correct something of what's being said about the world in which we live, but it's at the same time to say that there are some that are the TAs is to say there are some that are the children of God, right? That there are some that are fully crisply, clearly identified and securely resting in that identity without any kind of nervous or anxious energy that it might fall out of that state with God that, that in fact their identity is secure. And as I've been thinking about this this week, I, I'm totally with you because I think part of this just falls, the warning here is there's a little bit of the adventures in Romans one here that's waiting for us, that I like what you said about this idea of, of self deception and maybe like a. Subpart to this question would be, are the, are the terrors always nefarious in their lack of understanding? So we might say there's some that are purposely disruptive, that the enemy himself is, is promulgating or trying to bring forward his destruction, his chaos by way of these tears. But are, are there even a subgroup or another group, uh, co-terminus group or, you know, one in the same hierarchy where there's just a lot of self deception? I, I think that's probably where I fall in terms of just trying to explain that. Yes, I think it was present here is a real quantity, a real identity where they're self-deceived. Imagining themselves to be part of God's people, yet lacking that true saving faith. And this just, I'm gonna go in a couple places where I think everybody would expect in the scriptures, if we go to like Ephesians four, they're darkened and they're understanding alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them. And one Corinthians, when Paul writes, the natural person does not accept the things of the spirit of God, and he's not able to understand them because they're spiritually discerned. And then the book that follows the God of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers. And of course then like everything in Romans one, so I bring all that up because E, even at the end, we're gonna get there, the Es, this eschatological reality when you know God is separating out the sheep and the goats. Still, we find this kind of same trope happening there. But the unregenerate, what I'm reading from this. Importantly is that the unregenerate, they're not merely ignorant, they're blinded, as we all were on point to the spiritual truth. Yeah. By nature and by Satan. That that is also his jam. He loves to blind, to lie, to kill, steal, and destroy. So thus, even if they're outwardly belonging to the church, they're outwardly belonging to the world. They're outwardly belonging to some kind of profession. They cannot perceive the reality of their lost condition apart from divine illumination. Who can, that might be stating the obvious, but I think that's like what we're getting after here. I I, I don't know if there's like any kind of like conspiracy here. It's simply that that is the natural state of affairs. So why wouldn't we expect that to be reflected again in the world and that side by side, we're gonna find that shoulder to shoulder. We are, there are the children of God, and there are those that remain blind and ignorant to the truth. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. And, and you know, it, again, I, I, um, I don't know why I'm surprised. Uh, I certainly shouldn't be surprised. Um. But Matthew is like a masterful storyteller Yeah. Here, right. He's a masterful, um, editor and narrator. Um, and he's, he's put together here, of course, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Um, and, and there's some good reason to think in the text we're not gonna get too, in the nitty gritty here, there's some good reason to think in the text that Christ actually delivered these parables as a set as well. So it's not just, it's not just Matthew coating these, although it could be. Um, but it, it seems like these were all delivered probably as like a common set of parables. And the reason I say that is because when we start to look at this parable and the one we previously went through, the parable of the soils, um, or the parable of the sower. Um, what we see is the answer to your question of why do some people, you know, why are some people deceived? Well, yes, there is secondary causation. The devil deceives them. They blind themselves. They, you know, suppress the, the, the truth and right unrighteousness. But on a, on a primary causation level, um, God is the one who is identi, is, is identifying who will be the sons of the, you know, devil and the sons of the kingdom. Mm-hmm. This is another, and yet another example of election is that the, the good sower sowed good seed, and the good seed was the elect and the enemy. Although in God's sovereignty, God is the one who determines this. The enemy is the one who sows the reprobate. Right? So all, all men. Star, and this is, I, I guess I didn't really intend to go here, but this is good evidence in my mind for, um, infra laps, Arianism versus super laps. Arianism, right infra laps, arianism or sub lapse. Arianism would say that God decrees, uh, to permit the fall and then he decrees to redeem some out of the fall, right? Logically speaking, not temporally speaking. Super laps. Arianism, which is the minority. It's the smaller portion of, of the historic tradition, although modern times, I think it's a little bit louder and a little bit more vocal, but super relapses. Arianism would argue that God, um, decrees. Sort of the, the decree of election and reprobation is logically prior to the decree of the fall. And so in, in that former or in the super laps area model, the fall becomes a means by which the reprobate are justly condemned. Not, um, not the cause of their condemnation, but a way to sort of justify the fact that they will be separated from God, right? Because of their reprobate. [00:28:36] Exploring the Parable of the Wheat and the Tares Tony Arsenal: I know that there's, there's probably some super lab streams that would nuance that differently and some that are probably just screaming straw man, uh, in a coffee shop somewhere and, and people are thinking you're crazy. Um, but by and large, that's actually a rel, a relatively accepted, um, explanation of it. There are certainly potential problems with, uh, sub, sub lapse agonism as well. But in this, in this parable, what we see is the people who are, um, who are elect, are sowed into the field and the people who are reprobate are also sowed into the field. And so God saves the people who are sewed into the field that are, they elect, he saves them out of this now mixed world by waiting and allowing them to grow up next to the reprobate, um, in sort of this mixed world setting. And then he redeems them out of that. Um, and, and, and so we have to sort of remember. Although it is a pretty strict, sort of allegorical type of parable, it's still a parable. So we shouldn't, we shouldn't always draw like direct one-to-one comparisons here. It's making a theological point, but, um, but it's important for us to re remember that, that it is ultimately, it is God who determines who is the elected and who is not. But it's, it's our sin. It's the devil deceiving us. It's the secondary causes that are responsible for the sons of the devil, right? It, the, the men come to the, to the sower and say, who is done this? He says it was an enemy. Jesse Schwamb: Right? Right. Tony Arsenal: He doesn't say like, well, actually I put the seed there and so, you know, I'm, I, it's not an equal distribution. He's not sowing good seed and bad seed. He sows the good seed and the devil sows the bad seed. [00:30:24] Theological Implications and Assurance Tony Arsenal: Um, and, and that's a, I think that's an important theological point to make. And as far as assurance goes. We, we can't depend on our ability to perceive or sort of like discern election in a raw sense, right? We have to observe certain kinds of realities around us. Um, and, and primarily we have to depend on the mercy and, and saving faith that God gives us. That's right. Um, you know, our, our assurance of faith does not primarily come from fruit checking. Um, we have to do that. It's important, we're commanded to do it, and it serves as an important secondary evidence. But a, a, a person who wants to find assurance. Of salvation should first and foremost look to the promises of Christ and then depend on them. Um, and, and so that's, I think all of that's kind of wrapped up into this parable. It's, it's, it's amazing to me that we're only like two parables in, and we're already, you know, we're already talking about super lapse arianism and sub lapse arianism, and it's, it's amazing. I, I love this. I'm loving this series so far, and we're barely scratching the surface. Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, it's all there. I think you're right to call that out. It strikes me, like, as you were speaking, it really just hit me higher that I think you're right. Really the foundation on this, like the hidden foundation is assurance and it's that assurance which splits the groups, or at least divides them, or it gives us, again, like the distinct, kind, discrete compartments or components of each of them. So. Again, I think it's help saying, 'cause we wanna be encouraging. That's, that's our whole point here is when the Apostle Peter says, be all the more diligent to make certain about his calling and choosing of you. That herein we have the scripture saying to us, time and time again, be sure of what God has done in your life. Be confident in that very thing. And so if assurance is, as we're saying, that's the argument hypothesis we're making. That's the critical thing here. [00:32:11] False Assurance and True Faith Jesse Schwamb: Then the division between the children of God and the children of the devil is false versus true assurance. So the tears, I think what we're saying here, basically they typically live under false asserts. They may attend church, confess, belief, appear righteous, yet their hearts are unregenerate. Their faith is maybe historical. It's not saving, it could be intellectual, but it's not spiritual. And of course, like just a few chapters before this, we hope those famous verses where Jesus himself drops the bomb and says, listen, many of you, he's talking to the people, the, the disciples around him, the crowds that we're gathering and thronging all about. He says, many of you're gonna say to me, Lord, Lord, do we not prophesy your name? Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Jesse Schwamb: And then I will declare to them, I never knew you depart from me. These are not people who knew they were false, they thought they belonged to Christ. Their shock on judgment day is gonna reveal this profound self-deception. And that self-deception is wrapped up in a false type of assurance, a false righteousness. So I think one of the things that we can really come to terms with and grab a hold of is the fact that when we are. Confessing, repenting seeking like our status in Christ because of Christ. Then we have confidence that we are in fact part of the children of God. When everything is stripped away from us and all we're crying out is only and completely and solely and unequivocally, Jesus Christ, then I think we have great reason to understand that we should be confident in our assurance. [00:33:38] Historical Perspectives on Assurance Jesse Schwamb: You know, I was reading this week from Thomas Brooks and did incidentally come across this, a quote, an assurance and reminded me of this passage, and here's what he writes. You know, of course he's writing in like 16 hundreds, like mid 16 hundreds. It's wild, of course, but we shouldn't be surprised that what you're about to hear sounds like it could have been written today for us. In this conversation, but, uh, he writes, assurance is the believer's arc where he sits Noah alike quiets and still in the midst of all distractions and destructions, commotions and confusions. However, most Christians live between fears and hopes and hang, as it were, between heaven and hell. Sometimes they hope that their state is good. At other times they fear that their state is bad. Now they hope that all is well and that it shall go well. Well with them forever. Then they fear that they shall perish by the hand of such corruption or by the prevalency of such and such temptation. They're like a ship and a storm tossed here and there, and. I think that he's right about that. And I think the challenge there is to get away from that. I love where it starts, where he says, what wonderful turn of phrase assurance is the believer's arc or Noah, like, you know, we're sitting and the commotion, the destructions, the commotion, the confusions of all the world. That's why to get this right, to be encouraged by this passage, to be challenged by it is so critical because we're all looking for that arc. We all want to know that God has in fact arrested us so completely that no matter what befalls us, that everything, as we talked about before, all of our, all of the world, in fact is subservient to our salvation. But that's a real thing that cannot be snatched away from us because God has ordained it and intended it, built it, created it, and brought it to pass. And so I think that's all like in this passage, it's all the thing that's being called us to. So. I, I don't want us to get like too hung up. It's a good question, I think to ask and answer like we were trying to talk about here, but you're right. If we focus too much just on the like, let's gaff for these tears. Who are they? Like let's people's, like Readers Digest in People's magazine these tears. Like who are they? Do we have a list of them? Who do we think they are? How could it be me? Is it really me? Am I, am I anxious about that? Really what we should be saying is following what Peter calls us to do that is to be all the more diligent to make certain about his calling and his choosing. So even there like our emphasis and focus, isn't it like you're saying Tony about like, let me do some fruit inventory. I got like a lot of good bananas. I got a lot of ripe pears. Like, look at the tree. This, this is good. Even there, the emphasis is to turn our eyes on Jesus, as it were, and to make certain about his work, his calling and his choosing of us. And I think when we do that, we're falling down in worship and in yielding and submission to him, rightfully acknowledging that the righteousness of Christ is the one that is always in every way alien to us and imputed. And that is what makes us sons and daughters of God, that good seed sown by Jesus himself. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. I just wanna read, I wanna um, round out a few more paragraphs here out of the Westminster confession because I do think, you know, when we even talk about assurance, we're not even always all saying the exact same thing. And I think that's important because when we talk about assurance of faith, we need to be understanding that this is the rightful, not only the rightful possession of all Christians, but it's the rightful responsibility of all Christians to seek it. So here's, here's section two of that same chapter. It says, this certainty referring to assurance. This certainty is not a bare conjectural and probable persuasion grounded upon a, a fallible hope, but an infallible assurance of faith founded upon the divine truth of the promises of salvation, the inward evidence of those graces unto which these promises are made, the testimony of the spirit of adoption, witnessing with our hearts that we are the children of God, which spirit is the earnest of our inheritance, whereby we are sealed to the day of redemption. So. One of the, the things that I think is, is important here is people read this and say the inward evidences of those graces unto which these promises are made. They read that and they think that it's referring to like good work and like spiritual renewal, but it's, it's not, it's the inward evidence of those graces unto which of the promises are made. So it's this inner, inner renewal. It's the spirit testifying to our spirit. And then, um, chapter, uh, section three here, it says. This infallible assurance doth not so belong to the essence of faith, but that a true believer may wait long and conflict with many difficulties before he be partaker of it, yet being enabled by the Spirit to know the things which are freely given of God. He may without extraordinary revelation there, right there is response to Roman Catholicism in the right use of ordinary means at attain there unto. And therefore, it is the duty of everyone to give all diligence, to make his calling and election. Sure. And thereby his heart may be enlarged in peace and in joy in the Holy Ghost, in love and thankfulness to God and in strength and cheerfulness in the duties of obedience. The proper fruits of this assurance so far is it from inclining men to looseness? Right. [00:38:53] The Role of Good Works in Assurance Tony Arsenal: So we often hear and and I, I think there are good, um, there are good reformed Christians that put. The emphasis of assurance on, or they, they put an overemphasis, in my opinion, on how good works function within our assurance. Right. They, they often will ask us to look to our good fruit as sort of, not the grounding, but as a strong evidence. But at least in terms of the confession here, the cheerfulness in the duties of obedience is the fruit of assurance. Jesse Schwamb: That's right. Not Tony Arsenal: the cause or grounding of assurance. So rather than, this is what this last line says. It says so far, is it from inclining? Mental looseness assurance should drive us to obedience and fruitfulness in Christ. And so yes, it is in a certain sense an evidence because if that fruitfulness and obedience is absent from our lives, there's a good reason for us to question whether this infallible assurance is present in our lives. But the assurance is what drives us to this obedience. Um. You know, like, I think you could use the analogy of like a married couple. A married couple who is very secure in their relationship and in their, uh, love for one another and their faithfulness to each other is more likely to cheerfully serve and submit to each other and to respect each other and to sacrifice for each other than a couple that's maybe not so sure that the other person has their best interest in mind. That's or maybe isn't so sure that this thing is gonna work out. I think that's the same thing, like the sacrifice and the service that a husband, uh, performs for his wife, whom he loves and trusts and is committed to and knows that she's faithful and committed to him. That is not causing that faithfulness. It's not causing that trust and that love. It is the outcome and the outflow of it. It's good evidence that that love exists, but it's not caused by it. And assurance here is the same kind of dynamic assurance is not. We can't assure ourselves of our salvation by doing good works. No matter how many good works you do, there are lots and lots of people who are not saved and who will not be saved, who do perfectly good works in appearance. Right. They have the, the outward appearance of godliness, but lack its power. Right, right. Out of right outta Paul, writing to Timothy there. Yes. So that's, that's important for us as we continue to parse all this out, is yes, the fruit is present. Yes. The wheat is to, is discernible from the tears by its final, fruitful status. Right? It grows up to be grain, which is fruitful rather than weeds and tears, which are only good to be burned, but it is not the fruit that causes it to be wheat. It's wheat that causes the fruit to grow. If, if it wasn't wheat, it wouldn't grow fruit, not because the fruit makes it grain, but because it is in fact wheat to start with. Jesse Schwamb: Right. Yeah, that's right on. So I think like by summation we're kind of saying. At least the answer to this question. You know, do the tears know that they're tears? Yes and no. Some do, some don't. I think, yes, there are some that are gonna be consciously hypocritical, willfully rejecting Christ while pretending for worldly gain. I think that's, that's certainly plain to see. And at the same time, do the tears know the tears? Sometimes? No. There's self deceived under spiritual blindness and they have some kind of false assurance. And this idea of, again, coming in repentance before God and seeking humbly to submit to him is I think one of those signs of that kind of true assurance, not a false assurance. And you already stole where I was thinking of Tony by going to Second Timothy again. Thomas Brooks in precious remedies against Saint's device is one of like the best. Books ever. I know that he's really outspoken. He loves to harp on the fact that one of Satan's most effective snares is to make men and women content with a form of godliness without its power. Yeah. And that's often what we're talking about here, I think, is that Satan loves to fish in the shallow waters a profession. And really that can happen in any kind of church or religious culture, that there is this shallowness where that loves religious appearance, prayer, knowledge fellowship, but not the Christ behind them. And so whether we're looking to somebody like Brooks or Jonathan Edwards and we're trying to parse out what are our true affections, not in a way again, that somehow leans well, I feel enough, then somehow that justifies, not inwardly, but again, definitely trying to understand our conviction for conversion tears. For repentance that. Really what we're after is not like just the blessings of Christ, but Christ himself, which I think really leads us to this eschatological perspective then to round all everything out because you know, we talked about before, there's an old phrase, it's like everywhere. A lot of people talk in heaven. Not everybody's going there. And so this idea of like, people will talk about be so great to be there and it's sometimes this, the heaven that they speak of is like absent Christ, you know, as if like, if Christ wasn't there, at least in their perspective, it still wouldn't be half bad. And so I think that does lead us to understand what is this in gathering? What is this? You know, bringing everything into the barn and burning everything else up. And like you just said, if at the beginning you cannot tell the injurious weed aside from that beautiful kernel of wheat that's coming up, but if in the end you can see what's happening in the end, then that brings us all to consummation. What does it mean in this parable? Tony Arsenal: Yeah. [00:44:19] Eschatological Judgment and Assurance Tony Arsenal: And, and I think this actually sort of forces us to grapple a little bit with, with another sort of persnickety feature of this parable that, that I think, I think personally sometimes gets overlooked is we are very quick to talk about this parable to be about the church. And it is. Right. And, and there's reasons to talk like that. But when Christ explains the parable, he doesn't say the field is the church. He says the field is the world. Right. And so we have to, we have to, we have to do a little bit of, um. We have to do a little bit of hermeneutics to understand that this is also speaking of the church, right? It's not as though the church is some hermetically sealed off body that the dynamics of the world and the, the weed and the tears like that, that doesn't happen in the church. But when we talk about the end of the age here, he says the son of man will send his angels and they will gather out of his kingdom. All causes of sin in all lawbreakers. Right? So, so the, the final eschatological judgment, it's all encompassing. And I dunno, maybe I'm, maybe I'm becoming a little bit post mill with this, um, the, the world is already the Kingdom of Christ. Right? Right. That's right. It, it's not, it's not just the church on earth that is the kingdom of Christ. And so when we talk about this eschatological reaping, um, what we see is, is very straightforward. There are those who are, uh, who belong to Christ, who were sown by him into the world, who were, uh, were tended by him, who were protected by him, who he intended to harvest from the very beginning, right? The good sower sows good seed into the field, and that good seed is and necessarily will be wheat. It's not as though, um, it's not as though, and again, this is one of those ways where like the parables sometimes, uh, are telling a little bit of a different story. Even though they're sharing some themes in the first parable, in the parable of the sower, he sows the same seed into the world. But the seed in that first parable is not the, is not the person receiving the seed. The seed is the one is the word of God. Yes. And so the word of God is sewn promiscuously, even to those who will be hard soil and who will be rocky soil and have thorns. The word of God is, is sewn to all of those people. Across the whole world in this parable. The seed that is the good seed that is sown is and always was going to be weed that was, or wheat, which was going to grow into fruitfulness and be gathered into the barn. Right? That was a foregone conclusion. The, the, when the sower decided to sow seed, all of that said he is the one who did that. He's the one that chose that. He's the one that will bring us to completion, right? And then also the ones that are not of his kingdom, the sons of the devil, they will also be reaped at the end. Actually we'll be reaped before the, you know, they'll be reaped and gathered and, and tossed into the furnace before the sons of the kingdom are gathered together. Jesse Schwamb: Right. Tony Arsenal: So it, again, this is a parable and even though this is Christ's explanation of the parable, I don't think that Christ was intending to give us like a strict timeline. Right. I don't think he was encouraging us to draw a chart and try to map out where this all happens in order. Um, I do think it's relevant that, that, at least in the explanation of this parable, I mentioned it last week, that, that the rap, the rapture is actually the wicked being raptured. They're the ones that are gathered and taken out of the world and cast into the fiery furnace before the, before the righteous are gathered together and, and brought into Christ Barn. Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, there's a great unmasking that's happening here in this final stage. I mean, that's critically the point. I think there's a lot of stuff we could talk about open handedly and kind of hypothesize or theorize what it means. But what is plain, I think, is that there's this unmasking, this unveiling of the reality of the light of Christ's perfect judgment. But that judgment is for both parties Here it is coming and what was hidden beneath outward religion or more, a facade is gonna be revealed with eternal clarity. That's just the reality. It is coming. So in some ways it pairs. I think at least well in this, well purposely of course in this teaching because Jesus is saying, hold on, like we talked about last time. Do this is not for you to judge. You are ill-equipped. You are not skilled enough to discern this. And therefore though, you wanna go in hot and get spicy and try to throw out all the weeds. Wait for the right time. Wait for the one like you're saying, Tony has from all of eternity past intended for it to be this way. Super intending his will over all things in the casting of the seed. And as we say, Philippians, of course, finishing that good work, which was started, he will finish. It is God's two finish again. And so he says, listen, that day is coming. There's gonna be a great unmasking. Uh, get ready for it. And the scriptures bear witness to that in so many other ways. So. There's such a journey in these like handful of verses, isn't there? I mean, it's really wild. The things that not like we come up with or we read into the text, but as we sit in it a little bit, as we just spend even a cursory amount of time letting it pour over us, that we find there's like a conviction in a weight in these things that are beyond just the story and beyond just even like the illustrations themselves. What we find is, again, it's as if Jesus himself in his brilliance, of course, through the power of the Holy Spirit, is illuminating the mind in the spirit to open up our conception, understanding of the kingdom of God by bringing it to us through his perspective in our own terms, of course, which is both our language and like the context of the world in which we live, and that simple example of farming and seed. And again, even just that there are these interest weeds that look like wheat. I went on this like rabbit hole this week and did a lot of research on like tears and Yeah, like especially people in like the Midwest United States who like know a lot more about agriculture than I do have a lot to say about this. It's not just like we shouldn't be surprised like. Isn't it incredible that like there are actually weeds out there that look like, yeah, it's a brilliance of just knowing that this teaching is so finely tuned. Like we can even just talk about that. Like the world is finely tuned. This teaching is so finely tuned to these grant theological principles that we can at one point be children and appropriate them enough and assume them into our own intellectual capacity so that we can trust in them. And yet even as like adults with like, let's say like the greatest gift of intellectual capacity, still find that we cannot get to the bottom of them because they're so deep. They draw us into these really, really grand vistas or really like extremely deep cold theological waters. And I just find. That I am in awe then of what Jesus is saying here because there's a truth for us in assurance that we ought to clinging to. And there's also like stuff that we should come back to. We shouldn't just stop it here and put it out of our minds until the next time we, we want to just be stimulated by something that's interesting or that we want to just grab somebody and shake them cage style, cage two style and say like, look at this great thing that I just learned about this, this particular parable. But instead, there's so much here for us to meditate on. And in that, I think rather than the Christian finding fear in this parable, what they should find is great comfort. We should be Noah alike sitting in the ark saying, it is well with my soul. And our reason for that is because we know God has cast a seed through his son Jesus Christ. And to be a child, a child of God is the greatest thing in all the universe. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. And I, I think that, um, transitions nicely to, uh, I'll make this point quick because we're coming up on time here. Um. [00:52:04] Christ's Divinity and Sovereignty Tony Arsenal: The other little subtle thing that Christ does here in this parable is he, he absolutely asserts his divinity and sovereignty overall creation. Jesse Schwamb: That's right. Yep. Tony Arsenal: Right. It, it's almost like a throw. There's a couple little like lines that are almost throwaway lines, right in the, the first, the beginning of the parable here. Um, the parable itself, uh, he says, um, the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed into a field. And then he says, um, the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, right? And then when he interprets the parable, he says, well, the, the servants are, the field is the world, right? So he's the master of the world, and the servants are the angels. So he's the master of the angels. And then if, if there was any doubt left in your mind. Says in verse 41, the son of man will send his angels. That's right. And they will gather out of his kingdom, which is the world, all the causes of sin and all lawbreakers, and throw them into the fiery furnace. Right? So we have this, this robust picture that there is election. The the good sower sows good seed into the world, and the good seed will necessarily grow into wheat and will be preserved and protected and ultimately harvest Well, why can we have assurance that that will be the case? Well, because the master of the house is the son of man who is the Lord of the universe and the creator of all things. And his angels do his will. That's right. So, so the whole thing is all wrapped up. Why can we have assurance? Because God is a good God and Christ is a good savior, and the savior of the world is the creator of the universe, right? If any of those facts were not true. Then we couldn't have assurance. If God wasn't good, then maybe he's lying. If Christ wasn't the savior of the world or the God of the universe, the creator of the universe, then he wasn't worthy to be the one who saves. All of this is wrapped up in the parables, and this is what's so exciting about the parables. In most of the instances that we look up, especially of the sort of longer parables, these kinds of dynamics are there where it's not just a simple story making a simple point, it is making one primary point. Usually there's one primary point that a, that a parable is making. But in order to make that primary point, there's all these supporting points and supporting things that have to be the case. If the, if the good sower was not the master of the house and a, a competent, uh, a competent landowner who knew the difference between wheat and weeds, even at the early stage, right? His, his servants go and go, what happened? What's with all of these weeds? They can tell the difference somehow, Jesse Schwamb: right? Tony Arsenal: He's immediately able to go, well, this was an enemy. Jesse Schwamb: That's right. Tony Arsenal: And while they're bumbling around going, should we go rip it all up and start over? He is like, no, no, no, no. Just wait until, wait until it all grows up together. And when that happens, the Reapers will come and they'll take care of it and they'll do it in my direction, right? Because he's competent, he's the savior, he's the creator, he's the good master, he is the good sower. Um, we can be confi

Girlfriend, if you're tired of the never-ending cycle of body checking, comparing yourself to everyone around you, and feeling trapped in a body you don't recognize, this episode is for you. Host Lindsey Nichol breaks down the 4 categories of body image according to the National Eating Disorder Collaboration and walks you through practical exercises to challenge the negative body ideals that are keeping you stuck. In This Episode, You'll Discover: The 4 Categories of Body Image: Perceptual - The way you SEE your body Affective - The way you FEEL about your body (shape, weight, emotions) Cognitive - The way you THINK about your body Behavioral - How you REACT and engage based on the first three Plus, You'll Learn: How to identify where your "body ideal" came from (and why it might not be real) The truth about social media comparison and "comparisonitis" Why achieving your ideal body still won't make you feel "enough" How conditioning from a young age programmed false beliefs about your body The difference between focusing on being skinny vs. focusing on strength and health Practical ways to shift from body dissatisfaction to body appreciation Key Takeaways: ✨ You are NOT your body - Your body is a vessel, not your identity ✨ Body ideals are conditioned, not truth - Society programmed you to believe skinny is good and fat is bad ✨ Your true beauty is who you are WITHOUT restrictive behaviors ✨ Choice is your superpower - You can choose appreciation right now, today ✨ You can change the way you see, feel, and think about your body - And that changes everything Powerful Exercises to Try Today: 1. The Body Ideal Inventory Write out every detail of your "perfect body." Then ask yourself: Where did this image come from? Is there a specific person (celebrity, friend, family member) that comes to mind? Has social media contributed to this ideal? Would I care about this if I lived alone on an island with no one to compare myself to? 2. The Appreciation Practice Today, look at someone in your life without judging or comparing their body to yours. Find ONE thing you can admire or appreciate about their body. Then reflect on what this reveals about your own body ideals. 3. The Mirror Challenge Look at yourself face-to-face in the mirror and say OUT LOUD: "I am willing to do the hard things. I am willing to make changes in my life. I may not be seeing what is real and true because of false distortion, but I can choose right now to appreciate, respect, and care for me regardless." 4. The Reframe Exercise Choose one body part you criticize. Now reframe it - what can you appreciate about this part? Just like you appreciated something about someone else, extend that same grace to yourself. 5. The Shift from Skinny to Strong Instead of idolizing being skinny, focus on STRENGTH. Instead of weighing less, focus on HEALTH. What would change in your life if you made this shift? Questions to Journal On: What would my ideal body be if I had no one to compare myself to? Would I be restricting food if I lived on an island alone? At what point in my life did someone make me feel "less than" about my body? What if this belief I've held for so long isn't even true - just a programmed distortion? What do I want to be KNOWN for beyond my appearance? Who am I outside of my body? What can I appreciate about myself RIGHT NOW? Powerful Quotes from This Episode: "You are not your body. Your body is a vessel." "Comparisonitis is real and it's poison to your being" "Your true beauty is who you are without restrictive behaviors" "You can be 80 pounds or 400 pounds and you're still YOU" "What if this belief in your heart that you've been believing for so long is not even true?" "Do you not know that your body is a temple? You were bought at a price. Honor your body to honor your creator." - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Who This Episode Is For: This episode is for you if you're: Tired of the never-ending cycle of disordered eating Sick of restricting some days and eating other days Done with the shame game and feeling "not good enough" Exhausted from hating your body while simultaneously punishing it Ready to stop comparing your body to everyone around you Wanting to feel happy, confident, and empowered in your skin Wondering if body acceptance is even possible after years of struggle Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - "Do you not know that your body is a temple? You are not your own. You were bought at a price. Honor your body to honor your creator." Resources & Next Steps: Join the Community: Connect with other women on the recovery journey in Lindsey's private Facebook community - www.herbsestselfsociety.com ! Work with Lindsey: Ready for one-on-one support? Lindsey offers personalized recovery coaching. Visit www.herbestself.co/services  to book a complimentary consultation and see if coaching is the right fit for you. Take Action: Grab your journal, do the exercises from this episode, and share your insights in the Her Best Self Facebook community. Recovery isn't meant to be done alone, girlfriend! Connect with Lindsey Website: www.herbestself.co  Private Facebook Community: Her Best Self Society www.herbestselfsociety.com  1:1 Client Applications: HBS Co. Recovery Coaching - Client Application - Google Forms . Subscribe & Review: If this episode resonated with you—if you saw yourself in Lindsey's rejection story—please subscribe to Her Best Self wherever you listen to podcasts and leave a review. Your reviews help other women who are tired of perfectionism and people-pleasing find this show and realize they're not alone. Share this episode with a friend who needs to hear that her rejection story can become her redemption story. About the Host Lindsey Nichol is a former competitive figure skater turned God-led entrepreneur, boy mom, and digital CEO. She understands how core beliefs formed in childhood can create and maintain eating disorder patterns, and she's passionate about helping women identify and transform these beliefs to find lasting freedom. If this episode helped you feel hopeful again and remember your worth isn't found in your body or on your plate, please share it with someone who needs to hear this message. Your support helps more women break the chains of limiting beliefs. *While I am a certified health coach, anorexia survivor & eating disorder recovery coach, I do not intend the use of this message to serve as medical advice. Please refer to the disclaimer here in the show & be sure to contact a licensed clinical provider if you are struggling with an eating disorder

Send us a textWhat if the entire logic of the gospel hinges on one daring claim: God made every nation from one man? We take you to Athens with Paul and walk through Acts 17 to show how he introduces the “unknown God” by starting at the beginning—creation, purpose, and the reality of a literal Adam. Not as a symbol or a myth, but as the historical foundation for why sin is universal and why the grace of the last Adam, Jesus Christ, is necessary and sufficient.Together, we explore why “one blood” dismantles the false hierarchies that evolutionary thinking has too often reinforced, and how Scripture gives a better, richer account of human dignity and unity. We address the rising tide of theistic evolution inside the church, the interpretive maneuvers it requires, and the hidden cost to the gospel's coherence when Adam and Eve are reduced to archetypes. Along the way, we contrast what science can brilliantly explain—how—with what only revelation can disclose—why. From the blind men and the elephant to Homer's Odyssey, from Genesis to Romans and Corinthians, we connect cultural touchpoints to biblical clarity.We also widen the lens: God not only creates humanity; He controls history. Nations rise and fall on His timetable; borders shift under His sovereign hand. That doesn't excuse apathy—it anchors our hope. If you've wrestled with origins, human purpose, or the tension between mainstream science and Scripture, this conversation offers a thoughtful path forward: trust the God who speaks, who made us from one, and who remakes us in Christ into a new, redeemed people.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves big questions, and leave a review with your take on Adam, origins, and the gospel. Your voice helps more listeners find these conversations.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

When you buy something, it's a simple transaction—money goes out, and something tangible comes back in. But giving is different. Scripture tells us that when we give, we also receive—but not always in the way we expect. The return God promises isn't measured in bank balances or possessions. It's measured in freedom, joy, and purpose.Many people hear the phrase “give to receive” and imagine a divine transaction: give to God or others, and blessings—perhaps even financial—will return. But biblically, generosity is never a get-rich scheme. It's an invitation to live the kind of life God designed for us—a life marked by open hands and open hearts.God's Kingdom Is Not a Vending MachineSome interpret verses like Luke 6:38 (“Give, and it will be given to you”) as a spiritual formula: “If I give, God owes me something.” But this is a distortion of Jesus' teaching. God isn't running a cosmic vending machine where our dollars purchase His favor.Instead, He invites us to live differently—to find life not in what we keep but in what we release. If money itself were the ultimate reward, God would be reinforcing the very idol He seeks to break in our hearts. Jesus reminds us in Luke 12:15, “One's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” That truth echoes through every page of Scripture: generosity is not about loss—it's about liberation.What We Actually Receive When We GiveSo, if giving isn't transactional, what does Scripture say we receive in return? The Bible highlights three beautiful gifts that generosity brings.1. We Receive FreedomMoney has a unique power to capture our hearts. Jesus warned, “You cannot serve God and money” (Matthew 6:24). Every act of generosity is a declaration of allegiance: we are not owned by our wealth. Giving loosens money's grip and frees us to serve a greater Master.2. We Receive JoyIn Acts 20:35, Paul quotes Jesus saying, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” True joy doesn't come from what we accumulate—it comes from participating in God's generosity. John Bunyan put it this way: “You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.”3. We Receive PurposeWhen we give, we join God's mission in the world. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:11, “You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way.” The goal isn't self-enrichment—it's being a conduit of blessing. Generosity connects our story to God's story, reminding us that every resource we have is meant to reflect His generous heart.Giving Flows from GraceIf we're honest, our motives for giving can become mixed. We might give to feel good, earn approval, or to gain favor with God. But the gospel frees us from all of that. Ephesians 2:8–10 makes it clear: we're saved by grace, not by works. Our generosity is not a means of earning God's love—it's a response to already having it.Once we understand that truth, giving transforms from obligation into worship. We don't give to get something back. We give because we've already received everything in Christ.At the center of our faith stands Jesus—the One who gave everything. Paul captures it beautifully in 2 Corinthians 8:9:“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you by His poverty might become rich.”Jesus didn't give to gain something for Himself. He gave because of love. Through His sacrifice, we received reconciliation with God and eternal life in His Kingdom—riches far beyond material wealth.When our giving mirrors His, our motivation becomes love, not return. And in that kind of giving, we experience the true riches of life in Christ.Living With Open HandsEven when generosity brings blessing, the return is never shallow or predictable. We don't give to multiply our possessions—we give to multiply love, freedom, and trust.Every act of giving draws us deeper into God's life—freeing us from greed, filling us with joy, anchoring us in purpose, and reminding us that He is our ultimate treasure.The world says, “Give so you can get.” The gospel says, “Give because you've already been given everything.”When we live with open hands, we discover that the richest life is the one fully surrendered to God.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My wife had student loans before we got married, and the balance has now grown to about $65,000. I didn't realize how much debt she had until recently, and it's been hard to manage on our income—especially since her payments are currently set to $0 through an income-based repayment plan. How should we approach this situation, and what can we do to manage or reduce this debt given our financial limitations?I've been giving to my church using funds from my Required Minimum Distribution, even though I'm still working. Someone recently asked why I'm taking RMDs if I'm not yet required to. Do I have to take RMDs from my retirement plan while I'm still employed, or do the rules only apply to my IRA?I have both a Roth IRA and a brokerage account that I'd like to transfer to a new investment firm. The accounts have been open for more than five years. If I move my Roth IRA, does that five-year clock restart, or does the time I've already had it stay intact?I recently received an inheritance of about $200,000 after my father's passing. My mortgage balance is around $175,000. I don't have any other debt, but I do have five kids at different stages of life, including some in college, and I haven't saved much for retirement. Should I use the inheritance to pay off the mortgage and invest the remaining amount, or keep the mortgage and invest the entire amount for the future? What's the best move for my family right now?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 31, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Ezra 3:1-13, Josh Edwards, First Canticle: 10, New Testament: 1 Corinthians 16:10-24, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Second Canticle: 18, Gospel: Matthew 12:22-32, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.

Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Psalm(s): Psalm 35, Laura Ammons, Old Testament: Ezra 3:1-13, Josh Edwards, First Canticle: 13, New Testament: 1 Corinthians 16:10-24, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Second Canticle: 17, Gospel: Matthew 12:22-32, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.

My daughter eloped last week, and my husband and I couldn't be more delighted. Yet some of our friends are baffled by our reaction. So I'm unpacking the reasons we think it was a smart move on this week's episode of Loving Life at Home. Show Notes VERSES CITED: - Ephesians 3:20 - "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think...." - Proverbs 18:22 - “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD.”  - 1 Corinthians 7:9 - “…it is better to marry than to burn with passion.”  - James 1:17 - "Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above...." RELATED LINKS: - Love Your Husband, Love Yourself - the "why to" marriage book I wrote and gave to Rachel - "When It Comes to Weddings, Does Cost Really Matter?" - the Psychology Today article I cited STAY CONNECTED: - Subscribe: Flanders Family Freebies -weekly themed link lists of free resources - Instagram: @flanders_family - follow for more great content - Family Blog: Flanders Family Home Life - parenting tips, homeschool help, printables - Marriage Blog: Loving Life at Home- encouragement for wives, mothers, believers - My Books: Shop Online - find on Amazon, at Barnes & Noble, or through our website    

Today is day 297 and we are studying The Fourth Commandment. 297. Why does the Church worship on the first day of the week rather than the seventh? The earliest Christians came to observe Sunday as “the Lord's Day” (Revelation 1:10)for their primary day of worship in remembrance of Jesus' resurrection on the first day of the week. (Luke 24:1–7; Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2; Didache 14.1; Ignatius of Antioch, Letter to the Magnesians 9) We will conclude today by praying a Collect for Strength to Await Christ's Return found on page 22 of the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to anglicanchurch.net/catechism. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Hello Friends! I love to hear from you! Please send me a text message by clicking on this link! Blessings to You!In this episode, Dr. Jori discusses with her listeners the reminder of the writer of the letter to the Hebrews to consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds. Scripture References: Amos 5:6; Hebrews 10:24; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:21; John 5:15-17; John 1:1-5, 14; Hebrews 13:22; Jeremiah 31:31-34; Hebrews 10:16-25; Matthew 27:51; John 14:6; Genesis 3:15; John 16:33; Galatians 3:22-23; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Romans 12:6-8; Ephesians 4:11; Galatians 6:9 Scripture translation used is the Legacy Standard Bible.  “Scripture quotations taken from the (LSB®) Legacy Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2021 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.org and 316publishing.comFIND DR. JORI ON OTHER PLATFORMS https://linktr.ee/drjorishafferCHECK OUT THE DWELL AUDIO BIBLE APP:Click this link for my unique referral code.  I use this frequently. Such a wonderful audio bible app. https://dwellapp.io/aff?ref=jorishafferBIBLE STUDY TOOLS DR. JORI USES:Note: These contain  Amazon affiliate links, meaning I get a commission, at no extra cost to you,  if you decide to make a purchase through my links.Here is a link to some of my favorite bible study tools on Amazon:https://geni.us/cHtrfEMr. Pen Bible Journaling Kitshttps://lvnta.com/lv_PTrHSCogbRim4yhEDnhttps://lvnta.com/lv_mkaMOuGe6m4oHR88uqhttps://lvnta.com/lv_dgvsxOc99t663A628z  JOIN DR. JORI IN DEVOTIONAL JOURNALING IN 2025Check out this 9 min YouTube Video outlining her journaling strategy! Don't Forget to subscribe to the YouTube Channel! https://youtu.be/lqe9TO7RSz4 BOOKS OF BIBLE COLOR CHARTI made this chart as a helpful tool for grouping the collections of books or letters  in the Holy Bible.  The colors in the different sections are the ones that I use in my journals.  Books of Bible Chart (color) (4).pdf - Google Drive    LOOKING TO RETAIN MORE OF WHAT YOUR PASTOR IS TEACHING?              CHECK OUT DR. JORI'S SERMON REFLECTION JOURNALS! Sermon Notes, Reflections and Applications Journal/Notebooks by Dr. Jori. Click the links below to be directed to amazon.com for purchase. Or search “Dr. Jori Shaffer” on Amazon to bring these up.  https://amzn.to/418LfRshttps://amzn.to/41862EyHere is a brief YouTube video that tells about the Journal/Notebooks as well:https://youtu.be/aXpQNYUEzds   Email: awordforthisday@gmail.comPodcast website:  https://awordforthisday.buzzsprout.com Support the show

Discover how God's provocative words about our future in Him are actually invitations to conversation that spring clean our thinking. Graham explores the powerful paradox of living fully in the present while engaged with who we're becoming, creating an overlap where our identity takes shape and the enemy becomes utterly confused.**Key Scriptures:**+ Romans 6:6. "Knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him..."+ 2 Corinthians 5:17. "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation..."+ Ephesians 2:6. "And raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus..."**Want to explore more?**

The fruit of the Spirit can sound beautiful—but feel out of reach. Ava Pennington shares her journey through spiritual drought and anxiety to true fruitfulness—not through striving, but surrender to the Spirit. Join us to discover how you can flourish in Christ through the Holy Spirit's work—not by working harder, but by surrendering more fully to God's grace.Check out Ava's new book, Flourish: Grace-Centered Practices to Protect and Grow a Fruitful Life in ChristScripture referenced:Galatians 5:22-23Genesis 3:1James 1:14Hebrews 10:252 Corinthians 3:18Romans 12:2Matthew 26:39Ephesians 6:10Ava's favorite Bible study tools:ESV Journaling Bible | NASB Large Print | Double-Ended Bible Highlighters | Sticky Note Set | Bible Gateway | Biblehub | Blueletter BibleLearn more about Ava Pennington:Website | Facebook | X | PinterestClick here to send us your email for our newsletter OR to send a message to the show! We have no way of responding unless you leave your email.Want more from this conversation? Join our Coffee and Bible Time Community for exclusive bonus content you won't hear anywhere else—including extended podcast episodes, behind-the-scenes extras, and our weekly book club led by Ashley, Taylor, Mentor Mama, and special guests. Come grow with us!

Open Forum: The group explored the role of forgiveness in Christian marriage, with Bose sharing how practicing 1 Corinthians 13 love helped her heal and forgive her husband, while Pastor Amos emphasized the spiritual danger of unforgiveness and the need for constant prayer in marital unity. They clarified that true forgiveness is a deliberate choice, separate from emotional healing, and does not always lead to reconciliation. Discussions included dating challenges after toxic relationships, as Doyin opened up about attracting narcissistic men, with Pastor Amos advising on setting boundaries and understanding spiritual dynamics. Workplace dating was also examined, with Monique and Pastor Amos highlighting the need for caution and discernment. The group stressed aligning relationships with personal callings and values, with Stephanie and Doyin sharing growth experiences.  Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com                  

Psalm 119:25-32 Psalm 26 Psalm 28:1-3,6-9 2 Corinthians 13:4 Prayer Requests to psp@sqpn.com

Send us a textStart with a single word that dares to redefine everything: love. Not the kind that fades when the fireworks end, but agape—the steady, others-first commitment that turns a vice-soaked city into a living testimony of grace. We walk through Corinth's streets, hear Paul's urgent appeal in 1 Corinthians 13, and ask what happens when a church chooses to practice love daily rather than chase spiritual hype or cultural applause.We open the hood on four different “loves” and why only one can carry the weight of a life: storge as natural family affection, philia as friendship and affinity, eros as romantic desire, and agape as the self-giving decision to value another regardless of payback. You'll hear why philia runs out when tastes shift, why eros withers in the face of bills and broken bones without covenant, and why storge collapses in a society bent inward. Then we put agape at the center—where God put it—showing how it anchors families, deepens friendships, dignifies romance, and rebuilds a community that used to be known for everything but holiness.Along the way we face hard questions: Can grace be both forgiving and demanding? What does it mean to move from “such are some of you” to “such were some of you”? How do we hold the doors open to all while submitting our desires to Scripture? The path forward isn't abstract: practice love every waking hour. Choose presence over performance, service over status, and covenant over convenience. If you're ready to exchange the rush for the rooted, listen now, subscribe for the full True Love series, and share this episode with someone who needs a better word for love. And if this encouraged you, leave a review—tell us where you want to practice agape this week.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

“For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” (2 Corinthians 4:17 NLT) It’s a day like any other. You get out of bed. You take a shower. You brush your teeth. You eat breakfast. You read your Bible and pray. You commit your day to the Lord. And then it happens. A visit from a police officer who tells you there’s been an accident. A call from a doctor who informs you that you need to come in immediately because of something he found in your test. A note from your spouse who says they’re done with your marriage. A pain in your body that you’ve never felt before. Crisis hits hard and fast. Job’s world came crashing down in one day. An impulsive act by his brothers changed the course of Joseph’s life. When crisis hits, the natural tendency is to look inward and ask, “How am I going to get through this? Is there any hope for me?” But a better—and, admittedly, much more difficult—option is to look for opportunity in the midst of crisis. God allows adversity and crisis in our lives for important reasons. If we focus on those reasons, we can grow spiritually, even in the worst of circumstances. One reason God allows adversity is to keep us humble. Prosperity and success tend to make people proud and self-sufficient. We lose sight of our need for God. Adversity and crisis remind us just how much we need Him. God allows adversity to teach us eternal truths that we would not otherwise learn. The faith that cannot be tested is a faith that cannot be trusted. God wants us to toughen up and mature as believers. Adversity helps accomplish that. Adversity gives us a new compassion for others who are in pain. Paul wrote, “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us” (2 Corinthians 1:4 NLT). When you endure adversity, you’re positioned to help others endure it. You can help them navigate the difficult terrain. You can offer specific encouragement. You can say, “I’ve been through this. Here’s what I did. Let me pray for you.” It’s essential that we keep our adversity in perspective. Paul wrote, “For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” (2 Corinthians 4:17 NLT). Instead of focusing on the troubles we see now, we must focus on the joys to come that will last forever. God’s people are better off eternally because they suffer temporarily. Adversity ultimately brings us closer to God. Psalm 46:1–3 says, “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!” (NLT). No matter what shape our adversity takes, God will walk with us through it. Reflection question: When have you experienced God’s presence in the midst of a crisis? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Daily Devotions from Greg Laurie" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known."All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2 Corinthians

Jase vents his frustration with the media's handling of President Trump's recent comments about “getting into” heaven. The guys push back on checklist-based faith while acknowledging the balance between godly behavior and trusting in grace. Al and Zach pick their own walk-up songs, though it's clear they don't fully grasp the concept. The guys urge anyone with a platform to use it to point people to Jesus, noting that now is the time to be bold as more people seem open to spiritual matters. In this episode: Titus 3, verses 3–7; Romans 3, verse 23; Ephesians 3, verses 8–12; Psalm 51, verse 10; Genesis 1, verse 1; 1 Corinthians 3, verses 10–15; Hebrews 2, verse 11; Hebrews 11, verse 16; Romans 1, verse 16 “Unashamed” Episode 1192 is sponsored by: ONE NIGHT ONLY! “Off School Property" hits theaters October 23. Get tickets and watch an exclusive sneak peek: https://lifewise.org/unashamed https://fieldofgreens.com — Get 20% off with code UNASHAMED https://duckstamp.com/unashamed — Get your all-new digital duck stamp today. It's easier than ever! https://preborn.com/unashamed — Visit the PreBorn! website or dial #250 and use keyword BABY to donate today. https://chministries.org/unashamed — See why Christians are ditching health insurance for good. Get a simpler alternative at half the cost! http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ — Sign up now for free, and join the Unashamed hosts every Friday for Unashamed Academy Powered by Hillsdale College Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-home-with-phil-robertson/id1835224621 Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters: 00:00-04:08 Chick-fil-A comes in at #1 04:09-14:28 The guys pick their “walk up” songs 14:29-18:46 The Bon Jovi church wedding 18:47-27:23 Is Trump getting into Heaven? 27:24-32:17 Charlie Kirk's Medal of Honor ceremony 32:18-45:01 Good deeds won't land you in heaven 45:02-54:33 God is the only true creator — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marriage isn't about you. Singleness isn't a cop-out. And your body? It's not yours anymore.In this message, we break down 1 Corinthians 7:3-7 and what the Bible ACTUALLY says about marriage, singleness, intimacy, and the gifts God gives us. Whether you're single, married, or figuring it out - this is for you.Key Takeaways:* Why “my body, my choice” doesn't apply in marriage* How to know if you have the gift of singleness (spoiler: it's simpler than you think)* The one biblical reason to take a break from intimacy* Why tithing protects you from yourself* The real virus: it's not lust, it's sin

SPOILER ALERT! This episode contains discussions of Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, and the Tooth Fairy. Listener discretion is advised in the presence of young children! The Mia Moo Mascot loses its head and Jase is forced to have an uncomfortable conversation with his three-year-old godson about Jesus, Santa, and all the other characters in kids' lives. The guys turn to a thoughtful conversation about Santa, honesty, and how to protect a child's wonder while pointing them toward lasting truth. They dive into the hope of the resurrection and the promise that creation itself will be made new, tracing how Scripture ties together red letters, black letters, and the story of real, bodily renewal for all who follow Christ. In this episode: 2 Corinthians 5, verse 1; 1 John 3, verse 2; Romans 8, verses 23–26; Ephesians 1; Ephesians 2; Galatians 3; 1 Corinthians 15; Acts 1; Acts 7; Acts 17; Hebrews 1, verses 1–2; 2 Peter 3, verses 15–16; Psalm 22, verses 1, 27, 31; Psalm 23; Psalm 67, verse 7 “Unashamed” Episode 1191 is sponsored by: ONE NIGHT ONLY! “Off School Property" hits theaters October 23. Get tickets and watch an exclusive sneak peek: https://lifewise.org/unashamed https://duckstamp.com/unashamed — Get your all-new digital duck stamp today. It's easier than ever! https://www.puretalk.com/unashamed — Get PureTalk for just $25 a month. Make the switch today! Kimchi One from Brightcore – Improve your health, improve your life. Get 25% Off with code: UNASHAMED at https://mybrightcore.com/unashamed or dial (888) 404-9677 for up to 50% OFF and Free Shipping – ONLY when you call! https://rocketmoney.com/unashamed — Cancel unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. The average person save up to $740 a year when using all of the app's premium features! http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ — Sign up now for free, and join the Unashamed hosts every Friday for Unashamed Academy Powered by Hillsdale College Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://open.spotify.com/show/3LY8eJ4ZBZHmsImGoDNK2l Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters: 00:00-04:42 We love our military & veterans!  04:43-12:40 The difference between Santa & Jesus 12:41-19:50 Bring back enchantment in our kids 19:51-27:17 What will our post-resurrection bodies be like? 27:18-35:33 How the Holy Spirit intercedes for us 35:34-43:30 The “red letters” debate 43:31-49:52 Don't elevate doctrine over Jesus 49:53-56:22 Ultimate unity in Jesus — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices