Podcasts about Covenant

Today's Scripture passage is Genesis 13:1 - 15:21.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 IVPWORD40 for 40% off and free shipping on 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 LeeTo reach the IVP podcast team, please use this form.Disclaimer: 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.

ABOUT THIS MESSAGE Apostle Jim Raley delivers a holy announcement that 2026 is marked by Heaven. Lean in as Apostle Raley teaches the difference between a contract and a covenant and shares “The 10 Promises of Claimed Covenant.” SACRED SEASON Sacred Season is our time of corporate prayer and fasting. It is a time to seek the Lord about how He would have you fast. Get the Sacred Season Journal and learn more here: https://calvaryfl.link/sacred-season NEXT STEPS Have you made the decision to follow Jesus? We're celebrating with you! Let us guide you on your journey in your new life with Jesus Christ: https://calvaryfl.link/altar-decision Do you want to get plugged into Calvary FL? Find your next steps through discipleship, small groups or Growth Track. Start here: https://calvaryfl.link/next-steps When you give to Calvary FL, you're helping people around the world experience the love and hope of Christ. Learn more or consider giving at: https://calvaryfl.link/give CONNECT WITH US Have a question or want more information about Calvary FL? Contact us here: https://calvaryfl.link/contact-us ABOUT CALVARY FL We exist to Pursue Revival, Build Unity, Release Purpose, Leave Legacy Find locations here: https://calvaryfl.link/locations Download the Calvary FL app here: https://calvaryfl.link/app COLLIDE CONFERENCE Collide is our annual church conference where Spirit and structure collide creating moments that build faith, strengthen leaders, and set vision for the year ahead. Learn more and register here: https://calvaryfl.link/collide FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calvaryfl Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calvaryfl/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CalvaryFL CONNECT WITH APOSTLE JIM RALEY Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apostlejimraley Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apostleraley/ #calvaryfl #apostlejimraley

Fr. Mike talks about the significance of God's covenant with Abram, and how it points to God's immense love for us. Today's readings are Genesis 14-15, Job 3-4, and Proverbs 1:8-19. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Discover the world's earliest known system of astrology• Explores ancient Mesopotamian astrology, which originated with those who created Göbekli Tepe, and details the system's eighteen zodiac signs• Shares the author's decades-long research to decipher the meanings and characteristics behind each of the original eighteen signs• Shows how the original zodiac can enrich and expand our understanding of astrology, personal relationships, and our sense of self and destinyToday the zodiac is divided into twelve signs through which the sun appears to travel in a year. A person's sign can influence their personality, physical characteristics, and fate. However, in ancient Mesopotamia, the first zodiac was divided into eighteen signs—different from the Western and Vedic systems in use today. The Original Zodiac reveals, for the first time in more than 4,000 years, this earliest known system of astrology.The original Mesopotamian zodiac offered very different birth signs, including the Serpent, Swan, Crane, Horse, Wolf, and Eagle. This zodiac was recorded on a clay tablet that is now housed in the British Museum, cataloged as BM 86378, but there is no written record of how these signs were interpreted. Now, after decades of intensive research, Graham Phillips reveals the meanings of these mysterious signs and their relevance for our times.To determine what traits might be shared by those born in each sign of the original zodiac, Phillips comprehensively surveyed hundreds of volunteers from diverse backgrounds. He measured each participant's likes, dislikes, hobbies, habits, employment, health information, and other pertinent aspects of their lives and identities. Not intended to replace or challenge our traditional understanding of astrology, his findings offer an original system to enrich our current knowledge of the personality, character, and destiny of those born in each of its enigmatic signs.Graham Phillips is one of Britain's bestselling nonfiction authors. A former radio journalist and broadcaster for the BBC, and founder of Strange Phenomena magazine, he is a historical investigator of unsolved mysteries. The author of many books, including The Templars and the Ark of the Covenant, The Lost Tomb of King Arthur, The End of Eden, and Atlantis and the Ten Plagues of Egypt, he lives in the Midlands of England.https://www.grahamphillips.net/Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/earth-ancients--2790919/support.

What does real worship look like? Today on BOLD STEPS, Mark Jobe explores the powerful story of David and the Ark of the Covenant. We’ll discover why God’s presence isn’t something to toy with—and how approaching Him with reverence and boldness can transform everything. Get ready for breakthrough worship ... listen to Bold Steps with Mark Jobe. Bold Step Gift: Growing In Christ – 52 Devotionals For A Year Of FaithBecome a Bold Partner: https://www.moodyradio.org/donateto/boldstepsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textDownload study notes for this chapter.Download study notes for this entire book.**********Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version ®, NIV ® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved worldwide.The “NIV”, “New International Version”, “Biblica”, “International Bible Society” and the Biblica Logo are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.  Used with permission.BIBLICA, THE INTERNATIONAL BIBLE SOCIETY, provides God's Word to people through Bible translation & Bible publishing, and Bible engagement in Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and North America. Through its worldwide reach, Biblica engages people with God's Word so that their lives are transformed through a relationship with Jesus Christ.Support the show

Most people find the Old Testament confusing, dusty, or even intimidating. But what if it's actually the essential foundation for everything you believe about Jesus Christ? Today, we unlock the "Library of Books" that makes up the first half of our scripture and discover why it is the indispensable foundation of the covenant. Summary: In this introductory lesson, we lay the groundwork for a year-long journey through the Old Testament. We move beyond seeing it as a singular book and begin to view it as a diverse library of 39 books. Key themes include: The Foundation of the Covenant: Understanding why the Old Testament is the root from which the New Testament, Book of Mormon, and Doctrine and Covenants grow. Structure and Organization: A breakdown of the Hebrew Bible (the Tanakh) and its three parts: the Torah (Law), Nevi'im (Prophets), and Ketuvim (Writings). The Power of Translation: Exploring how the Bible moved from Hebrew to Greek to English, and why the Joseph Smith Translation is vital for our study. Finding Christ in the Old Testament: Moving past the "dead letter" to see the "living spirit" of the Messiah on every page. Call-to-Action: Which book of the Old Testament has always felt the most "sealed" to you? Let us know in the comments, and let's commit to opening it together this year! 

Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha. The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011. Follow along with the full written article here: rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/shemot/jewish-leadership/ This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Shemot is available to read, print, and share, by visiting: rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/shemot/leadership-and-the-people/ The new FAMILY EDITION is now also available: rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation-family-edition/shemot/leadership-and-the-people/ For more articles, videos, and other material from Rabbi Sacks, please visit www.RabbiSacks.org and follow @RabbiSacks. ------------------------------- With thanks to the Schimmel Family for their generous sponsorship of Covenant & Conversation, dedicated in loving memory of Harry (Chaim) Schimmel.

What hope does the covenant of grace offer when a baptized child dies? In this episode Jonathan Master explores T.D. Witherspoon's Children of the Covenant (1873), written in the wake of profound loss and grounded in God's promises rather than sentiment. Through the lives of three covenant children, Witherspoon points grieving parents and churches to Christ, the ordinary means of grace, and the sure consolation of belonging to Him.

Jesus took it very seriously when religious people who were supposed to represent Him made following God hard for people. He rebuked them for their hypocrisy and set the precedent that we are not to merely look good on the outside, but we are to walk with inward integrity, and help others lift their burdens, not make it difficult to experience God's mercy. In this message, we do a deep dive into the heart of Jesus and how we are to minister to others.

In this conversation, Mike and Tim explore the significance of God's name, particularly in the context of the Lord's Prayer. They discuss the cultural understanding of names in ancient times, the meaning of the Tetragrammaton, and how God's name reflects His character and covenant with His people. The conversation delves into the implications of misusing God's name in modern contexts, the nature of God's jealousy, and the relationship between God's name and humanity. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of honoring God's name in worship and daily life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and New Year Reflections 03:52 Exploring the Lord's Prayer 10:30 The Significance of God's Name 19:17 Understanding God's Jealousy and Covenant 30:43 The Nature of God's Revelation 33:21 Covenant Ideology and Community Involvement 34:41 Suboptimal Conditions and Progressive Revelation 37:33 The Role of Law and Suggestive Nature 40:51 Understanding God's Name and Character 45:47 The Significance of God's Name in Community 49:38 Living into the Character of God's Name 55:36 The Relationship Between Commands and Character 01:00:26 The Challenge of Christian Nationalism and Authenticity As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram. We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV. Our Merch Store! ETSY Learn more about the Voxology Podcast Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on Facebook Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

Every ministry has a defining moment when everything begins. On today's edition of Family Talk, we're going back in time to May 3rd, 2010, for the very first Family Talk broadcast. You'll hear Dr. James Dobson alongside his son, Ryan, and co-host, LuAnne Crane, as they share the covenant and vision that launched this ministry. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/707/29?v=20251111

Welcome to Day 2768 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2768 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 105:1-15 – Daily Wisdom Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2768 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day two thousand seven hundred sixty-eight of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. The title for today's Wisdom-Trek is: The God of History – The Unbreakable Oath and the Protected Wanderers. Today, we turn a new page in our journey through the Psalter. We are stepping into the historical landscape of Psalm One Hundred Five, covering the opening movement, verses one through fifteen, in the New Living Translation. To understand where we are, we need to look back at the trail we have just hiked. In Psalm One Hundred Three, we looked inward. We heard David command his own soul to bless the Lord for His grace, forgiveness, and fatherly compassion. It was a psalm of personal redemption. In Psalm One Hundred Four, we looked upward and outward. We saw God as the Cosmic Architect, robed in light, playing with Leviathan, and feeding the lions. It was a psalm of creation and nature. Now, Psalm One Hundred Five asks us to look backward. It shifts our focus from Creation to History. It tells us that the God who built the universe is also the God who orchestrates the rise and fall of nations to keep His promises to a specific family. This psalm is a recounting of the Covenant. It reminds us that our faith is not based on abstract philosophy or feelings; it is based on things that actually happened in space and time. It is the story of how Yahweh, the Most High God, stepped into the timeline of humanity to carve out a people for Himself. So, let us open the archives of heaven and remember the story that defines us. The first segment is: The Liturgy of Storytelling: Making His Deeds Known. Psalm One Hundred Five: verses one through four. Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done.  Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds.  Exult in his holy name; rejoice, you who worship the Lord.  Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him. The psalm begins with a burst of imperative commands. The psalmist is rallying the troops, not for a battle, but for a proclamation. "Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness." The phrase "proclaim his greatness" is literally "call upon His name." In the Bible, calling on the name of the Lord is an act of public worship and dependence. It is identifying yourself by His name. But notice the target audience: "Let the whole world know what he has done." The Hebrew word for "world" here is ammim—the peoples or the nations. This...

As we step into a new year, we're taking time to share the vision God has placed before us—where we're going, how we're growing, and how each of us can be part of what's ahead. If you call Covenant home—or you're looking for a church to grow with—this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen expecting. Be encouraged. Let's move forward together.

In this episode, Samuel Goulet explores the contrast between modern culture's focus on personal desire and the enduring biblical call to self-denial and obedience to God. He emphasizes that true Christian living is rooted in surrendering personal will to God's eternal ways, rather than shaping faith around individual preferences or consumerism. Drawing from scripture, Goulet discusses how identity, relationships, and even church practices should be defined by God's will, not self-fulfillment, and encourages listeners to apply these principles in marriage, family, and daily life. The episode concludes with a call to prayer, inviting the audience to consecrate their relationships and resources to God, seeking humility, grace, and a deeper walk of faith. [Document 4 | Word]

The Great Rosary Campaign is an ongoing prayer and penance campaign for the conversion and strengthening of both Catholic and non-Catholic leaders.For the last 4 weeks, and in this final week—going through Advent, Christmas, and heading into the New Year—we are praying for the conversion of various tech leaders who are spearheading AI. We are also praying that, alongside any potential benefits that may come from AI, the evil that may result from it may be mitigated for the sake of the salvation of souls.THIS WEEK of the Great Rosary Campaign, we will pray for the conversion of Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google.Since we are now in the season of Christmas and Epiphany, we suggest a Holy Hour before the Holy Eucharist for Altman's conversion.In these dark times, we must fight evil with the most powerful weapons we have. The Rosary is foremost among them. Join the Great Rosary Campaign today at: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com.Countless Saints and Popes have told us that the Rosary is incredibly powerful for three things in particular:Keeping the FaithMoral renovationConversions of non-CatholicsThe Great Rosary Campaign is also based on several biblical themes and principles.First, PRAY FOR OUR BRETHREN. “Pray for one another…” (Jas. 5:16). “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).Second, PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-44).Third, PRAY FOR ALL MEN, PARTICULARLY LEADERS AND THOSE IN AUTHORITY. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, or kings and all who are in high positions…” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).Fourth, GOING INTO BATTLE WITH THE ARK. When the ancient Israelites came to Jericho, God didn't tell them to besiege the city. Instead, He told them to march around it with the Ark of the Covenant seven times, and on the seventh the walls would fall. We will now "march" in prayer for seven days with the New Ark of the Covenant, Our Lady, through the Rosary. We pray in hope that on the seventh day, a day especially devoted to Our Lady (Saturday), extraordinary graces of conversion will be given to those we are praying for.Fifth, EVANGELISM AND APOLOGETICS = LOVE + ARGUMENTS + PRAYER + PENANCE. Ultimately it is God who reveals Himself to a soul, and empowers them to say "yes" to Him by His grace. He chooses to use us, but He does not have to. We must remember that as we evangelize and defend the Faith, our arguments will be fruitless unless informed by love (charity), and reinforced by prayer and penance.Sixth, RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL. “Do not return evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).Sign up to take part in the Great Rosary Campaign today: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Ian Vaillancourt (PhD, University of St. Michael's College) professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Heritage Theological Seminary to discuss is book The Dawning of Redemption: The Story of the Pentateuch and the Hope of the Gospel. ResourcesThe Dawning of Redemption: The Story of the Pentateuch and the Hope of the Gospel by Ian VaillancourtKingdom through Covenant: A Biblical-Theological Understanding of the Covenants by Peter Gentry and Stephen WellumDominion and Dynasty: A Theology of the Hebrew Bible by Stephen DempsterOld Testament Theology by Paul HouseThe Pentateuch as Narrative: A Biblical-Theological Commentary by John SailhamerFrom Paradise to the Promised Land by T.D. Alexander

Welcome to Season 3 of Just Love Them. This season is an invitation to find peace, heal relationships, and learn to trust God with the people we love—especially those who have stepped away from our faith.In this episode, we explore a powerful truth that brings deep comfort: God's love and help are not reserved for just the obedient or the “faithful.” God is aware of every one of His children and is actively involved in all of our lives—regardless of belief, behavior, or church attendance.This episode gently challenges the belief that God withdraws His love or help when someone steps off the covenant path. Instead, it offers reassurance that God never abandons His children. He is present, aware, and working for good in the lives of all whom He loves—including your loved ones.God is not an all-or-nothing God. His love is constant, inclusive, and relentless. And on this truth, you can rest.Peace is possible.Scripture ReferencesJohn 3:17John 14:18Hebrews 13:51 Nephi 21:14–16Doctrine & Covenants 18:10Doctrine & Covenants 50:40–42Alma 36:3Moroni 7:33Connect with Shiree at ⁠shireebest.com⁠ Join the⁠ "Just Love Them" Facebook group⁠Email Shiree at imlivinginjoy@gmail.com

On December 17, 2025 the Alaska Watchman reported, “In a split decision, the Anchorage Assembly narrowly voted to erase all historical references to the famous Captain James Cook from the city's official seal.” In light of the new Municipal Seal, and the controversy about the removal of Captain Cook from it, we return to Season 1: Episode 5. I hope you enjoy this Encore Episode about Captain Cook originally titled, The Legacy of Colonialism Part 1: A Statue, a Banner, and a Covenant.   We want to hear your positive vision of the future! Record a voice memo on your phone of your positive vision for Anchorage's future and send the audio file to anchorageutc@gmail.com. Please put in the subject line of your email “North to the Future – My Vision.”   #anchoredcity https://anchorageutc.org https://www.facebook.com/AnchorageUTC @AnchorageUTC     Resources Used To Make This Episode: https://alaskawatchman.com/2025/12/17/anchorage-assemblyman-blasts-colleagues-for-ignoring-public-and-ditching-historic-city-seal/?fbclid=IwY2xjawOwK3NleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeYL4ga-dBxk_uQKg2-t6_n6FyOXsttgf_U3X_3ak8GZ9LXwqEov4HZS-GirE_aem_TkaaknsJa6DMueAYQDgh0w http://www.cc.com/video-playlists/qkhul9/the-daily-show-with-trevor-noah-between-the-scenes/g34af5 https://www.alaskapublic.org/2020/06/29/most-agree-on-the-story-of-captain-cooks-time-in-cook-inlet-they-differ-on-how-to-tell-it/ Oleksa, M., 1992, Orthodox Alaska: A theology of mission, St. Vladimir's Seminary Press, Crestwood. Newcomb, S., 1992, ‘Five hundred years of injustice', Indigenous Law Institute, n.d., viewed 30 January 2019, from http://ili.nativeweb.org/sdrm_art.html. Indigenous Values Initiative, 2018, Dum diversas, viewed 14 February 2019, from https://doctrineofdiscovery.org/dum-diversas/. Charles, M., 2016, ‘The doctrine of discovery, war, and the myth of America', Leaven 24(3), 147-154. http://www.alaskool.org/projects/JimCrow/cov_res.htm https://www.alaskapublic.org/2020/02/28/illegal-for-decades-many-anchorage-homes-still-have-covenants-that-prohibit-sale-to-blacks-and-alaska-natives/ Wohlforth, C., 2017, ‘How some Anchorage neighbors redeemed the city's racist past', Alaska Daily News, 27 February, 2017, viewed 30 January 2019, from https://www.adn.com/opinions/2017/02/27/how-some-anchorage-neighbors-redeemed-the-citys- racist-past/. Ford, A., 2017, ‘Redlining in Fairview', Anchorage Press, 23 February, 2017, viewed 30 January 2019, from https://www.anchoragepress.com/news/redlininginfairview/article_cb0037a0-f9a7-11e6- b9eb-5fef409ab819.html. https://www.alaskapublic.org/2020/09/07/hundreds-gather-in-anchorage-over-holiday-to-commemorate-march-on-washington-anniversary/ https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/anchorage/2020/09/07/anchorage-labor-day-rally-urging-racial-equality-draws-hundreds-of-supporters/ https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/anchorage/2020/06/25/mayor-berkowitz-to-have-native-village-of-eklutna-decide-what-to-do-with-downtown-captain-cook-statue/ www.smallchurchmusic.com/Song_Display-New.php?SID=2644

Nehemiah 10:28-39Marcus Doe | January 4, 2026Redemption Tucson Church

Kyle brings us the message recorded live at Covenant. 

LEVITICUS 10 — YAHUAH'S FIRE, PRIESTLY RESTRAINT, AND ACCOUNTABILITY AFTER REVELATION“Authorized Worship, Discernment, and Survival Near the Fire”Teacher: Kerry BattleAhava ~ Love AssemblyThis message continues the Torah teaching sequence following Leviticus 9, where authorized fire came from before Yahuah and His standard for acceptable worship was revealed.Leviticus 10 moves from approval to accountability.This chapter establishes:Who defines acceptable worshipHow priests must respond after revelationHow leadership is judged when failure occursThis is not emotional teaching.This is covenant instruction.WHAT WE COVER IN THIS MESSAGE1. Unauthorized Fire After the Standard Is RevealedLeviticus 10:1–2Nadab and Abihu act without command after Yahuah has already revealed authorized fire. This section establishes that silence from Yahuah is not permission and that innovation at the altar becomes rebellion once the standard is known. Proximity increases accountability, not protection.2. Yahuah Is Qadosh and Judgment Is ImmediateLeviticus 10:2–3Fire comes from before Yahuah and consumes the disobedient priests. Aaron's silence is recorded as submission, not weakness. This section explains why restraint and fear of Yahuah preserve life when judgment is righteous.3. Grief Does Not Override Covenant AssignmentLeviticus 10:4–7Aaron and his remaining sons are commanded to remain at their post. Personal loss does not suspend priestly responsibility. Covenant order is protected even when judgment is painful.4. Sobriety and Discernment at the AltarLeviticus 10:8–11Yahuah speaks directly to Aaron and establishes sobriety as a requirement for discernment. This section explains that sobriety is about clarity and distinction, not control, and why impaired judgment is deadly near holy fire.5. Service Continues After JudgmentLeviticus 10:12–15Priestly service does not collapse after failure. Order continues with greater restraint, discipline, and fear of Yahuah.6. Rebuke, Discernment, and RestraintLeviticus 10:16–20Moses rebukes Aaron because deviation must be examined. Aaron's explanation is accepted because restraint is not rebellion. This section establishes the difference between presumption and wisdom.WHY THIS MESSAGE MATTERSAuthority is establishedWorship is regulatedLeadership is judgedPresumption is exposedRestraint is honoredCovenant order is enforcedLeviticus 10 teaches that worship without obedience is dangerous and leadership without discernment invites judgment.SCRIPTURE REFERENCES FOR STUDYLeviticus 9–10 • Exodus 40Deuteronomy 4 • Deuteronomy 12Numbers 15 • Numbers 20Ezekiel 9 • Ezekiel 24Malachi 21 Samuel 16 • 1 Samuel 24Job 40Psalms 46Hebrews 12Every section is taught precept upon precept.ABOUT AHAVA ~ LOVE ASSEMBLYWe teach the Pure Word of Yahuah, no religion, no tradition, no compromise.Our teaching follows the Sovereign Blueprint:Law | Precept | Example | Wisdom | Understanding | Prudence | Conviction | Fruit of the Ruach | Final Heart CheckSUPPORT THE WORK — GIVE VIA ZELLEZelle QR at: ahavaloveministry.comZelle only.No CashApp.No PayPal.FINAL WORDYahuah reveals His standard.Fire enforces it.Silence can preserve life.Restraint protects the altar.Leviticus 10 regulates life near holy fire.Final Heart Check:Now that the standard has been revealed, will your response honor Yahuah, or presume upon access?

PSALMS 102–103 — AFFLICTION, REMEMBRANCE, AND COVENANT MERCY“Standing Under Pressure and Remembering Yahuah Correctly”Teacher: Kerry BattleAhava ~ Love AssemblyThis evening message follows the Torah class and continues the Psalms teaching sequence, addressing how Israel responds after obedience is already established.Psalms 102–103 move from affliction to remembrance.These psalms establish:How Israel speaks in sufferingHow memory is governed under covenantHow mercy is taught without disorderThis is not emotional release.This is covenant regulation.WHAT WE COVER IN THIS MESSAGE1. Psalm 102 — Affliction Without AccusationPsalm 102Psalm 102 gives voice to affliction without rebellion. The psalmist speaks honestly of weakness and distress while refusing to accuse Yahuah of injustice. Affliction is acknowledged, but covenant order is maintained.2. Yahuah Is Eternal While Man Is FrailPsalm 102:12–28Human strength fades, but Yahuah remains unchanged. Personal suffering is placed under covenant purpose, and Zion's restoration is affirmed as appointed. Continuity belongs to the covenant, not the moment.3. Psalm 103 — Remembrance Is a CommandPsalm 103:1–5Israel is commanded to remember Yahuah and forget none of His benefits. Memory is regulated. Forgetting commandments while remembering benefits produces disorder.4. Mercy Without LicensePsalm 103:6–14Yahuah's mercy is compassionate and patient, yet covenantal. Mercy restores relationship but does not remove accountability. Fear of Yahuah governs mercy.5. Who Mercy Is ForPsalm 103:15–18Mercy is extended to those who fear Yahuah, keep His covenant, and remember His commandments to do them. Mercy is inherited through obedience.6. Authority Precedes WorshipPsalm 103:19–22Yahuah's throne is established, and His kingdom rules over all. Worship flows from settled authority, not emotion. Praise follows order.WHY THIS MESSAGE MATTERSAffliction is disciplinedMemory is regulatedMercy is definedObedience is preservedLeadership is restrainedCovenant order is protectedPsalms 102–103 teach Israel how to endure hardship without accusation and how to receive mercy without abandoning obedience.SCRIPTURE REFERENCES FOR STUDYPsalms 102–103Deuteronomy 7 • Deuteronomy 8 • Deuteronomy 30Exodus 34Isaiah 40Lamentations 3Malachi 3Hebrews 1Every section is taught precept upon precept.ABOUT AHAVA ~ LOVE ASSEMBLYWe teach the Pure Word of Yahuah, no religion, no tradition, no compromise.Our teaching follows the Sovereign Blueprint:Law | Precept | Example | Wisdom | Understanding | Prudence | Conviction | Fruit of the Ruach | Final Heart CheckSUPPORT THE WORK — GIVE VIA ZELLEZelle QR at: ahavaloveministry.comZelle only.No CashApp.No PayPal.FINAL WORDAffliction does not cancel covenant.Mercy does not erase obedience.Memory must be disciplined.Authority remains settled.These psalms regulate life under sustained pressure.Final Heart Check:When affliction lingers, do you humble yourself or accuse Yahuah?When mercy is shown, do you return to obedience or relax it?

“Covenant Power: Transform Fear into Faith through the Power of Jesus Christ” explores how members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can grow closer to the Savior through the covenants they make in the House of the Lord. Article: https://www.byui.edu/radio/lds-news/new-book-explores-connection-with-jesus-through-temple-covenants

Today, we're looking at the pilot of Lander One, and Mrs Tennessee, the audience anchor in Covenant, Faris.

Christ Is Born Part 04 - Dr. Lynn Hiles dynamically teaches on the finished work of the cross, the message of God's never-ending love, and His grace which causes us to have an abundant life. www.lynnhiles.com www.lynnhiles.comBooks: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Dr.-Lynn-Hiles/author/B08PDLRVMV?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1764788077&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=4f7b2b7c-3e5b-4ac7-ad8f-04e599d41a15Giving: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7NJ2V7SAJGYV8

Jacob's Covenant Blessing - Pastor Scott Sigman - January 4 by Pastor Larry Huch

Hey there, Welcome to Living Word! We're so glad you're here with us. If you find this message inspiring, don't forget to hit that like button and subscribe for more amazing content. We've got a lineup of guest speakers, pastors, and engaging discussions with our awesome community members coming your way. Let's dive in together! Our Links–• Join The Prayer Movement!: https://theprayermovement.com• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingwordmn• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livingwordmn• Stay up to date with all things LWCC at https://www.LWCC.org• Join our Online Church community here: https://www.lwcc.org/onlinechurch• Give online: https://www.lwcc.org/give/• If you recently committed your life to God, we'd like to give you a free eBook to help you in your spiritual journey. Click here to download: https://www.lwcc.org/nextsteps/#LivingWord #ChurchSermon #Worship

God Sees Jesus Followers as “In Christ”: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” MESSAGE SUMMARY: As Followers of Jesus, we are "In Christ" -- God looks at us and sees Jesus in us. Throughout the Epistles we find: "In Christ" or "In Him". In Galatians 3:14, Paul tells us that our faith in Jesus makes us “In Christ” and recipients of God's Covenant with Abraham: “so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.". Also, Paul goes even further, in Galatians 3:25-28, to tell us that, through our faith in Jesus, we no longer need any kind of intermediary because we are “In Christ” and we have a personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe: “But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian.”. The benefit our position "In Christ", as Christians, is that when God looks at us, He sees Jesus, the Son; therefore, He then sees us as His sons and daughters.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 3:21-26; Romans 6:5-11; Romans 6:22-23; Psalms 77a:1-10. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “The Struggle with Time -- Until I Determine How We Want to Use Our Time, Others Will Determine How Our Time Is Used” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/    DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Pastor Nathan kicks off the new year with a Godly motivational message titled. "What's Wrong With Me?" If you accepted Christ we'd love to meet you! Click the link below to introduce yourself so we can help you along your faith journey! Click Here!

Are you tired of hearing the same old marriage advice? ("Happy wife, happy life," "Learn to compromise")? Maybe what the experts tell you leaves you feeling frustrated, disconnected, and battling resentment. In this game-changing episode, we host Monica Tanner, Relationship Coach, host of the Secrets of Happily Ever After podcast, and Amazon Best-Selling author of Bad Marriage Advice: 15 myths that will make you miserable. Monica is here to teach you how to stop settling and start building your marriage on holy ground. She tackles the single biggest mindset trap couples fall into and shares simple yet effective strategies to ditch resentment and build up your marriage on holy ground. In this episode, we explore:

In Jesus Christ, for the Holy Spirit, God removes human iniquity. Holy Spirit redemption and Jesus Christ resurrection becomes human soul salvation for those accepting Jesus is the Christ.Contact Us; Covenants.llc1@yahoo.com; CovenantsOnLine.com; @Covenants; or calling 304.528.9220.

John 1: 1-18 Susan Scott reminded us of a powerful image from this week's scripture in John where Jesus became flesh and "tabernacled with us." Jumping back in time to Exodus, God instructs the chosen people in great detail on how to build a portable tabernacle, a sanctuary, for God to dwell in, but only a very select few people could enter. Later the tabernacle is built in stone in Jerusalem with the holy of holies that contains the Ark of the Covenant and God's presence, but is destroyed by the Babylonians and then rebuilt when the Israelites return from captivity. During Jesus' time Herod massively expanded the temple, but the building had no Ark, no cloud of glory, no miracles, and no prophesies like the first one - a silence of 4 centuries. The high priesthood was corrupt and under the influence of the Roman occupiers. Into this darkness, John tells us that the long awaited return of God's glory to the temple has been fulfilled by Jesus, to an extant even greater than that of the first temple. But God is doing something new, amazing, and unexpected this time. Instead of being reserved for an elite few, God's glory now walks without elaborate trappings among all the people, prophesying and doing great miracles. As the short, dim days of winter continue, take some time to reflect on the bright glory of Jesus in our lives - God tabernacling with us, not apart from us.

Today, we’re looking at the pilot of Lander One, and Mrs Tennessee, the audience anchor in Covenant, Faris. The post Alien In Character – Faris first appeared on NEOZAZ.

“01-04-25 _Covenant with God to be an OVERCOMER this year_ – Mary Vaughan”. The post Covenant with God to be an OVERCOMER this year – Mary Vaughan first appeared on New Song Church. The post Covenant with God to be an OVERCOMER this year – Mary Vaughan appeared first on New Song Church.

Welcome! We are so excited you are joining us today! Head on over to any of the links below for more information about what is happening here at Covenant.*New visitors, please fill out our Connect Card!*Submit a Prayer Request HERE*Check out our Sermon Notes & Archives*Visit our Website!*Download the Covenant Church App for important links, digital sermon notes & archives and more. 

1) Since Jesus is the only one with a glorified body, what kind of bodies do Enoch and Elijah have?2) Is the raising of the dead saints in Matthew 27:52-53 a resurrection or resuscitation?3) Where is the Ark of the Covenant?4) Does my past life of two divorces prohibit me from participating in the Lord's Supper or becoming an active member?5) Could you explain “abstain…from blood” in Acts 15:20?6) Dr. McGee explains 1 Corinthians 15:28 in light of the resurrection.7) What does the expression "hating even the garment spotted by the flesh" in Jude 23 mean?

We may experience some tension when trying to discern the relationship between God's grace and our works as it relates to our salvation. This is understandable if we limit our study to the writings of Paul and James in the New Testament. However, by revisiting God's original covenants with Abraham in Genesis and the new covenant Jesus establishes in Matthew, we gain understanding of how God works, his gift of grace, and what he expects from us as his people. 

LEVITICUS 9 — AUTHORIZED FIRE AND COVENANT ORDER“Activation, Accountability, and Divine Approval”Teachers: Kerry & Karen BattleAhava ~ Love AssemblyThis lesson follows directly from Leviticus 8 and records the activation of the priesthood after consecration.Leviticus 8 established cleansing, order, and preparation.Leviticus 9 reveals what happens when the consecrated actually approach Yahuah.This chapter answers one covenant question:How does Israel live when Yahuah chooses to dwell in our midst without consuming us?This is not ceremony.This is covenant activation.This is divine response.WHAT WE COVER IN THIS LESSON1. The Eighth Day: Accountability BeginsLeviticus 9:1After seven days of consecration, instruction ends and responsibility begins. The priesthood is no longer being prepared, it is being tested. Obedience must now be demonstrated publicly before Israel.2. The Priest Must Judge Himself FirstLeviticus 9:2–7Before addressing the sin of the people, Aaron must make atonement for himself. Leadership increases accountability. Unjudged sin in leadership places the entire camp at risk.3. Obedience Must Be ExactLeviticus 9:8–21Every action at the altar is performed precisely as commanded. No creativity. No innovation. Precision is not legalism, it is protection when fire is involved.4. Blessing Follows ObedienceLeviticus 9:22–23Aaron blesses the people only after obedience is completed. Blessing is not emotional speech, it is a covenant function released in proper order.5. Authorized Fire from Before YahuahLeviticus 9:24Fire comes out from before Yahuah and consumes the offering. This fire is divine approval. The same fire that blesses obedience will judge disorder. Not all fire is authorization.WHY THIS LESSON MATTERSConsecration is testedObedience is verifiedAccountability is enforcedAuthority is confirmedCovenant order is revealedLeviticus 9 shows that preparation without obedience is incomplete, and proximity without order is dangerous.SCRIPTURE REFERENCES FOR STUDYLev 8–10 • Ex 29 • Lev 16 • Num 3 • Num 18Mal 1 • Ezek 44 • Ps 24 • Isa 6Matt 23 • John 4 • Heb 12Every section is taught precept upon precept.

Can Christians biblically support the modern nation of Israel—or is that a theological mistake? In this episode of Ask Dr. E, Dr. Michael Easley responds to a viral question about Genesis 12, political leaders quoting Scripture, and whether God's promises to Abraham apply to Israel today. Dr. Easley explains the Abrahamic Covenant as an unconditional, unilateral promise that unfolds across Genesis 12, 15, and 17. He addresses common misunderstandings about covenant theology, replacement theology, and the belief that the church has replaced Israel in God's plan. Drawing from Romans 9–11, Judges, Deuteronomy, and biblical history, Dr. Easley shows why God's land promise remains intact—and why it cannot be dismissed as merely symbolic or political. The conversation also explores how God works through history, governments, and flawed leaders under His providence, reminding listeners to be cautious of “clickbait theology” and oversimplified social media takes. Rather than offering partisan talking points, this episode encourages careful Bible study, theological humility, and a bigger view of God's redemptive purposes. If you've wrestled with questions about Israel, modern politics, and Scripture—or felt confused by online debates—this episode will help you think biblically and clearly. Key Topics Covered -Does the Bible support modern Israel? -The Abrahamic Covenant explained (Genesis 12, 15, 17) -Is the land promise to Israel still valid today? -Covenant theology vs. replacement theology -Romans 9–11 and Israel in God's redemptive plan -God's sovereignty and providence in world history -Christians, geopolitics, and biblical interpretation -Political leaders using Scripture correctly or incorrectly -Blessing Israel: biblical meaning vs. modern politics -How Christians should think about Israel today Chapters 00:00 Theological Foundations of Land Promises 02:48 Modern Israel and Biblical Interpretation 05:43 Covenant Theology and Its Implications 08:09 America's Role and Support for Israel 10:59 Geopolitical Realities and Future Perspectives

Happy New Year adventurers! Kick off 2026 with some gaming goodness as King Scott, Navigator Lana, and Just Patrick do the 8-bit breakdown for the hot new euro from Devir: Covenant! As always, we've got a ton of banter and recent plays.  Plus stick around as we look back on last year's review game: Path of Civilization! www.levelupgamepodcast.com

SummaryIn this timeless message, Pastor Wayman Mitchell preaches “The Sound of Abundance of Rain,” a powerful sermon about the supernatural blessing of God passed through generations of faith.Pastor Mitchell unpacks the covenant God made with Abraham—a covenant of blessing, fruitfulness, and spiritual dominion. He challenges us to believe for the impossible, speak life into dry bones, and pass on the spiritual deposit we've received through Christ.Whether you're a leader, pastor, or believer seeking fruitfulness, this sermon will stir your faith to believe that the best is yet to come.Chapters0:00 - Welcome to Wayman Wednesday0:50 - Introduction: The Blessing of God3:48 - Elijah's Faith & The Sound of Rain5:20 - Understanding God's Blessing8:26 - Abraham's Covenant & Supernatural Victory10:50 - Joseph's Favor & Prosperity12:00 - Passing the Blessing to Future Generations13:16 - A Spiritual Deposit to Be Transferred15:52 - What This Conference is Really About17:55 - God's Chosen People: Old & New Testament19:00 - Jesus' Promise: You Will Bear Fruit20:06 - Abraham's Faith in the Impossible22:30 - Believers as Heirs of Abraham's Blessing24:16 - Jesus Blesses and Breathes on His Disciples26:00 - Ruth, Boaz & Handfuls on Purpose27:35 - Prophecy of Overflow: Joel & Pentecost28:59 - Can These Dry Bones Live? Speak Life!30:21 - It's Not About Personality—It's About Faith32:00 - The Call to Spiritual Leadership32:35 - Altar Call: Respond to God's Covenant BlessingShow NotesALL PROCEEDS GO TO WORLD EVANGELISMLocate a CFM Church near you: https://cfmmap.orgWe need five-star reviews! Tell the world what you think about this podcast at: • Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3vy1s5b • Podchaser: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/taking-the-land-cfm-sermon-pod-43369

God is looking for Covenant partners to rule His world with Him according to His wisdom and ways. Will we take the "forbidden fruit" of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, cutting God out of our lives and making our own way, or will we ask God to give us His divine wisdom in His time and in His way? This is the pressing question each soul must answer.

Our Election in Christ (1) (audio) David Eells 12/31/25 I'm going to talk to you today about our election in Christ. There is much false teaching and many misconceptions in Christianity about the doctrine of predestination, which includes calling and election, yet it's actually been a general power in my life to understand it. It's given me more faith in the Lord and more fear of the Lord. Much of the church, especially in America, rejects and even fights against it. Predestination is opposed by the Armenian doctrine or the “freewillers,” as they are called, but when you look around, you don't see the free will that people say that they have because everybody is serving something. Jesus said in (Mat.12:30) He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. So you are either serving Him or you are serving the devil. (Psa.51:5 KJV) Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. Someone who is bound in sin is not free to make a godly choice; the ability to do that comes from God Himself and it's a gift. (Joh.15:16) Ye did not choose me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that ye should go and bear fruit, and [that] your fruit should abide: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. Although experientially it does seem to us that we chose Him, that just lets you know how easy it is for God to put His will in you. (Joh.15:19) If ye were of the world, the world would love its own: but because ye are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. You see, not only did He choose us, but in effect, He didn't choose someone else. Out of the whole world, He chose us. Several years ago, I heard something that has really stayed with me. I was listening to a lady talking to her adopted son, and she was trying to explain this to him. She said, “Most moms and dads don't have much of a choice. They just have to settle for what they get. But we chose you; out of all that we knew, we chose you.” That's the way it is between God and us. He didn't just settle for what came along. God knows how this universe goes on the way it does, and He foreknows the end of it. He's the God (Rom.4:17) … who giveth life to the dead, and calleth the things that are not, as though they were. And He tells us, (Isa.46:9) … for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me; (10) declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done; saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure. He chose us and He put His will in us. He chose us for what we will be; He chose us for what we will become by the grace of God. It was not the will of man that caused us to come to Jesus, it was the will of God. Paul writes (Php.2:13) … it is God who worketh in you both to will and to work, for his good pleasure. And He's been doing that since before our Christian beginning. (Joh.1:12) But as many as received him, to them gave he the right (The Greek word there is exousia and it means “authority.”) to become children of God, [even] to them that believe on his name. You need to have authority to become a child of God, and only God gives authority to everyone who believes on His name because faith is a gift of God. (Joh.1:13) Who were born, not of blood (Our new birth is not like the Israelites, who had to be born into a family who made them a part of the Covenant.), nor of the will of the flesh.... Now, nothing in our flesh causes us to come to God. (Rom.8:7) Because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be. Our flesh is the enemy of God, and you would never choose to come to God, especially when you were totally bound in sin. The only One who could set you free is Jesus. (Joh.8:36) If therefore the Son shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. Back to (Joh.1:13) Who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. This choice to come to God was no part of man; it came from God. God put a holy choice in an unholy person. If we had gone on doing our own will, our will would have always led to sin and to never serving anyone else but ourselves. It was God who reached in from the outside and put a will in us to come to Him. Romans 9 is one of the most avoided chapters in the Bible because of all the false teaching coming from the pulpits. People read Romans 9 with their preconceived ideas from their religion, so they can't understand it. If you drop all that and just read what it says, you will be able to understand it. (Rom.9:6) But [it is] not as though the word of God hath come to nought. For they are not all Israel, that are of Israel (The same thing can be said about the Church.): (7) neither, because they are Abraham's seed, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. (8) That is, it is not the children of the flesh that are children of God; but the children of the promise are reckoned for a seed. (Rom.9:9) For this is a word of promise, According to this season will I come, and Sarah shall have a son. (10) And not only so; but Rebecca also having conceived by one, [even] by our father Isaac– (11) for [the children] being not yet born, neither having done anything good or bad, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth, (12) it was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. (13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. Before any of their works Jacob was chosen. The doctrine of Arminianism says that God foreknows the future, and He predestines according to what He foreknows is going to happen or what we will do in the future. This is ridiculous when you think about it. If it was foreknown to happen anyway, why would He have to predestine it? “Predestine” or “foreordain” are two translations of the same Greek word proorizo, which means “to decide the destiny before it comes; to ordain the destiny before it comes to pass.” It doesn't mean that God looked ahead and saw what was going to happen and who would do good. Salvation would have been by works. Truly, God already knows what's going to happen because He does not dwell in time. Jacob didn't always do good but God chose him for what He would make out of him. Remember, God speaks the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). (Rom.8:29) For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained (or “predestined”) [to be] conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. That means those whom He knew before the creation, He ordained at that point, so it's not because of their works. It's not based on whether they had done anything good or bad as we just saw. I did a diligent search when I first discovered this in the Scriptures. I decided I was going to be open-minded, and I was going to see what the Bible really had to say about the subject. I wanted to see why God chose me. So I searched and I searched for the reason why God chose me above someone else and I found out, (Eph.2:3) Among whom we also all once lived in the lust of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. You see, there is no reason, physically speaking, why God would choose one person over another. I discovered that one “dirt” is just as good as the next “dirt.” It's not the dirt that counts; it's what you are sowing in it. God is interested in creating the spiritual man, which has nothing to do with your old life. The new life is born-again from above and that's the spiritual man. The spiritual man, who is created in the likeness of Christ, is born of the Word. He's born from above and has nothing to do with the old nature. I was looking for a reason why God would choose me above someone else and found there is no reason. (Rom.9:21) Or hath not the potter a right over the clay, from the same lump to make one part a vessel unto honor, and another unto dishonor? God claims the right to make whatever vessel He wants out of this same lump of clay. That means there was no difference in our natural life that caused God to choose us above anybody else. (Rom.9:14) What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. (15) For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion. (16) So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that hath mercy. After we are born again, I think God spends a lot of time teaching us that it's not by our willpower. We try to save ourselves by our willpower and it doesn't work. We eventually learn that we are to walk by faith, or we won't receive what we're looking for. Some people think grace starts after you choose God, but it starts before you choose God. Otherwise, you wouldn't choose God. (Eph.2:8) For by grace (This is the Greek word charis and it means “unmerited [or unearned] favor.”) have ye been saved.... It's not that you are saved but that you have been saved. The ancient manuscripts and the Numeric text both say this, but the KJV says, “are saved.” No, you were saved, and it was by grace. (Eph.2:8) For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God. So, since we were saved by grace and it's a gift of God, that doesn't give us a reason to look down on anyone else, does it? And it doesn't give us a reason to condemn anyone in the world. It's strictly a gift from God and this gift is given to us (Eph.2:5) Even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ.... When Christ was resurrected is when He “made us alive together with Christ.” (5) … (by grace have ye been saved), (6) and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly [places,] in Christ Jesus: (7) that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus (And now, we are the benefactors of this grace that was given in Christ 2,000 years ago. The people who were saved, were saved 2,000 years ago. People who are manifesting salvation now were saved then.): (8) For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; (9) not of works, that no man should glory. Nobody will be able to brag about this salvation. We are depending upon God now as much as we were then. We have to cry out to God to give us grace to be obedient and to serve Him. He says in (Joh.15:4) Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; so neither can ye, except ye abide in me. (5) I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same beareth much fruit: for apart from me ye can do nothing. (10) For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God afore prepared that we should walk in them. God prepared the works of His Chosen. God wrote your name in the Book of Life from before the foundation of the world (Psalm 69:28; Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5; 13:8; 20:12). Manifestly, it's being written in the Book of Life when you come to God, but your name was written from before the foundation of the world, just as God “chose us in Him before the foundation of the world.” (Eph.1:4) Even as he chose (This is the Greek verb eklego of the noun eklektos and it means “I pick out for myself, choose, elect, select.”) us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blemish before him in love. God chose us in Him and that means He didn't choose all. Some of you are probably asking, “But what about the ‘calling'?” I was told that God's call goes out to the whole earth to bring people to Christ. Well, that's just not true. I looked up every verse in the New Testament about “calling,” and that word is not used that way at all. (2Ti.1:9) Who saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before times eternal. Notice it says here, “who saved us, and called us.” According to the doctrines of most religions, we are called and then saved; however, this invitation is to Christians only. The Greek word for “called” here is kaleo and it means “invitation.” We see in the parables of Jesus that only His people are kaleo, or “invited,” to partake of the Marriage Feast (Matthew 22:1-14; Revelation 19:9). Every place in the Bible where the word kaleo is used, everyone who was called came to Christ. They were already a Christian. When we go out and call (or invite) people through the Gospel to come to Christ, some accept and some don't, and we're finding out that those who accept are those who have His calling and the others do not. (Eph.1:18) Having the eyes of your heart enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints. So He saved us, then He called us and we're going to see that all the called are not necessarily going to be chosen, but all the elect will be chosen. (Mat.22:14) For many are called, but few chosen. The word “chosen” there is the same Greek word used above; it's the word eklektos, and it means “elect.” The difference between the called and the elect is that all of the elect are called, but not all of the called are the elect. Those who are saved have an invitation to partake of all of Jesus. As Christians, we are called to partake of His body and blood, which is His nature, His character and His power. The world cannot partake of that invitation; it's not even extended to them because this invitation is a Covenant offering. (Rom.10:20) And Isaiah is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I became manifest unto them that asked not of me. That shows the power of God because we did not seek Him. That shows we were not seeking Him when we found Him. It was Jesus Who came for His lost sheep. (Luk.19:10) For the Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost. We were the lost sheep. Think about the conversion of Apostle Paul on the Damascus road (Acts 9:1-30), You say, “God can save anybody!” God went to extremes in order to make Paul His child and His emissary to the world. Truly, God can save anybody He wants to, and He will. We didn't seek Him and the Gentiles didn't seek Him. (1Co.4:6) Now these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes; that in us ye might learn not [to go] beyond the things which are written; that no one of you be puffed up for the one against the other. (7) For who maketh thee to differ? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? but if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory as if thou hadst not received it? Why should we be puffed up about our salvation? What do we have that we didn't receive? Nothing. We think that we chose Christ. Some people look upon the lost and wonder why they cannot understand what's being said. They're thinking, “Why won't the lost be reasonable?” In a way, they're condemning the lost because they don't realize that only by the grace and mercy of God did they receive what they have. When you understand that you can't convert anybody by your works, you know to first go to God. By your works, you can fill up churches, but you can't convert anybody that way. Salvation is a gift from God. (Rom.11:35) Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? Everything comes from Him. There is nothing that God is ever going to owe anybody. (36) For of him, and through him, and unto him, are all things. To him [be] the glory for ever. Amen. Everything came from Him and everything is going back to Him. It didn't come from us and this takes away all room for pride. The first choice we made for God, the first desire we had for God, didn't come from us. It came from Him, and He can put that in anyone. This takes away all reason for pride because it's totally, 100% by God's grace. A good example is (Psa.65:4) Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach [unto thee,] That he may dwell in thy courts.... The choice comes from God first. He causes us to approach unto Him and dwell in His courts. Salvation from the curse in every form has already been given to us by faith. We need to pray to God to give us the grace to be what we need to be. (Joh.10:16) And other sheep I have which are not of this fold: them also I must bring (Notice that Jesus is talking about doing this in the future. These sheep weren't saved yet because He said, “I must bring.”), and they shall hear my voice: and they shall become one flock, one shepherd. In the days ahead, we are going to see that one flock and one shepherd, but when we study Ezekiel 34, we find that the Lord talks about how His flock was spoiled by shepherds who were doing their own will. (Eze.34:2) Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel (a type of the Church), prophesy, and say unto them, even to the shepherds, Thus saith the Lord God: Woe unto the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the sheep? (3) Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill the fatlings; but ye feed not the sheep. (4) The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, neither have ye brought back that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with rigor have ye ruled over them. The Lord says that He is going to take all those fruitless shepherds away, and He, Himself, has promised to personally be the Shepherd of His flock. (Eze.34:11) For thus saith the Lord God: Behold, I myself, even I, will search for my sheep, and will seek them out. (12) As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered abroad, so will I seek out my sheep; and I will deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. (13) And I will bring them out from the peoples, and gather them from the countries, and will bring them into their own land; and I will feed them upon the mountains of Israel, by the watercourses, and in all the inhabited places of the country. (14) I will feed them with good pasture; and upon the mountains of the height of Israel shall their fold be: there shall they lie down in a good fold; and on fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. (15) I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord God. (16) I will seek that which was lost, and will bring back that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but the fat and the strong I will destroy; I will feed them in justice. So, the Lord is going to have physical shepherds to do this. They will be men who are vessels through whom the Spirit of the Lord is going to flow, and they will not be doing their own will. In that way, God is going to have one flock and one shepherd. But the point I want you to see here is that when Jesus says, “Other sheep I have which are not of this fold,” these are people in the future who are going to come because they were given to Him back then; you belonged to Jesus back then. (2Ti.1:9) Who saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before times eternal. Some people think, “Okay, I'm predestined and there's nothing I have to worry about. I can just sit back and take it easy.” They are justifying their doctrine of “once saved, always saved.” They don't understand that God has methods to predestine. He uses those methods to predestine, and if you ignore His methods, you will not be predestined. Calvin and Luther, the people who made predestination famous, were accused of believing “once saved, always saved,” but that's not what they believed. They taught God's methods of predestination and here's one of them: Jesus said, (Joh.10:26) But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep. The people who didn't believe Jesus were not His sheep. (27) My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.... Jesus' sheep have ears to hear. They hear and they follow, and the rest do not. If you teach only what Jesus taught, you will be able to recognize those who are His sheep and those who are not. Those who do not hear are the self-willed. They're going to be like the son of perdition who sits in the temple of God. (2Th.2:3) Let no man beguile you in any wise: for [it will not be,] except the falling away come first, and the man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition, (4) he that opposeth and exalteth himself against all that is called God or that is worshipped; so that he sitteth in the temple of God, setting himself forth as God. He is his own God for he does his own will. We've seen that here with the Unleavened Bread Bible Studies. Some people have their own ideas and as long as we adhered to the Scriptures, they just left, which needed to happen. If it wasn't that way, a little leaven would leaven the whole lump (1 Corinthians 5:6; Galatians 5:9). Jesus said, (Luk.12:51) Think ye that I am come to give peace in the earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division. And the way He came to bring division was to use the Word like a sword. (Eph.6:17) And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And so He says, (Joh.10:27) My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: (28) and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. You probably recognize that verse the “once saved, always saved” crowd uses to justify their doctrine, but Jesus is talking about His sheep. “No one shall snatch them out of my hand” and no one can snatch them out of His hand. These are the elect; they are the chosen of God. It's not possible for them to be snatched out His hand because they hear and they follow. (Jas.1:18) Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. By His will, not our will, He brought us forth by the Word of truth. His method is to give you the gift of ears to hear the Word of truth (Deuteronomy 29:4; Matthew 13:15; Romans 11:8; etc.) In the latter days of Israel, having ears to hear is what separated those Israelites who were going into the New Testament from those who would not. And in these latter days of the Gentile Church, having ears to hear is once again separating between those who are going to go on with God and those who do not belong to God. Those who are not part of the elect are going to be drawn aside. (Joh.8:31) Jesus therefore said to those Jews that had believed him ... (43) Why do ye not understand my speech? It's amazing to me how sometimes people just can't understand you when you are saying something very simple, but if they have ears to hear, they understand, and if they don't have ears to hear, they can't understand. Now, sometimes, because of someone's age in the Lord, their understanding may not be very deep; however, anyone who knows God should be able to understand the basic principles. (Joh.8:43) Why do ye not understand my speech? [Even] because ye cannot hear my word. They didn't have the gift of ears to hear. (44) Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father it is your will to do.... I've learned that most people have a blockage for why they don't hear. I know because it's happened to me when I was young and had a false doctrine. To the extent that someone clings to a pet doctrine, to that extent they won't hear and they won't believe anything that challenges their doctrine. Then also there can be a bigger blockage. (47) He that is of God heareth the words of God: for this cause ye hear [them] not, because ye are not of God. That's how God divides between the sheep. People who don't hear the Word of God, people who don't put the Word of God before their own thinking and their own religion, they are not of God. That's how Jesus discovered who was of God, and it's still the same today. Jesus says in (Joh.13:17) If ye know these things, blessed are ye if ye do them. (18) I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen (This is again the Greek eklego, which is the verb of the noun eklektos, and it means “I pick out for myself; choose, elect.”): but that the scripture may be fulfilled: He that eateth my bread lifted up his heel against me. Jesus knew whom He had chosen, and He knew Judas was going to fall away. Judas was “called,” kaleo, but he was not “elect,” eklektos. (Joh.6:70) Jesus answered them, Did not I choose you the twelve, and one of you is a devil? (71) Now he spake of Judas [the son] of Simon Iscariot, for he it was that should betray him, [being] one of the twelve. Jesus understood that Judas was a son of the devil, yet He chose him to walk among the 12. (Joh.13:18) I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen.... He went on to explain that He was not speaking of Judas, who never had ears to hear. (Joh.6:63) It is the spirit that giveth life; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I have spoken unto you are spirit, and are life. (64) But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who it was that should betray him. (65) And he said, For this cause have I said unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it be given unto him of the Father. Let me point out to you that it's not who receives the call and starts out with you who is chosen; it's who is still with you at the end. (2Jn.7) For many deceivers are gone forth into the world.... John is talking about leaving Christianity. (1Jn.2:18) Little children, it is the last hour: and as ye heard that antichrist cometh, even now have there arisen many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last hour. (19) They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us: but [they went out,] that they might be made manifest that they all are not of us. “They” here is referring to antichrists. The Beast is antichrist in the world, but antichrist in the Church is this son of perdition. (2Jn.7) For many deceivers are gone forth into the world, [even] they that confess not that Jesus Christ cometh in the flesh. This is the deceiver and the antichrist. (8) Look to yourselves, that ye lose not the things which we have wrought, but that ye receive a full reward. (9) Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God: he that abideth in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son. So it's not “he who began with you” who is chosen; it's “he that abideth in the teaching.” Some people say they love the Word and seem very eager to study the Word, but there comes a point where they decide not to go any deeper, usually because it comes against their flesh. You know, lost people like knowledge. They like knowing things that other people don't know because it gives them a reason to be puffed up. The son of perdition likes knowledge, but when it comes to knowledge that demands a change in their life, that's where those people start filtering out, as the Bible says: (1Jn.2:19) They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us: but [they went out,] that they might be made manifest that they all are not of us. (2Jn.9) Whosoever goeth onward and abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God: he that abideth in the teaching, the same hath both the Father and the Son. “He that abideth not in the teaching of Christ, hath not God.” This is saying you have to be obedient to have the Father and the Son. Antichrist are those who go out from among you and are denying the Father and the Son because they are not obedient to the Word. Remember that Jesus said, (Joh.14:15) If ye love me, ye will keep my commandments. (23) Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my word: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. That's not a promise to those who are disobedient or to those who start out and don't finish the course. That's a promise to those who endure until the end. (Mat.24:13) But he that endureth to the end, the same shall be saved. (1Co.1:23) But we preach Christ crucified, unto Jews a stumblingblock, and unto Gentiles foolishness; (24) but unto them that are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. People who are called understand the wisdom of the Gospel, but to the rest, it's foolishness and a stumblingblock. You may preach the Gospel to somebody today, and they won't come, but they might come later on because the right foundation was finally laid and the right timing has finally come. Just because someone doesn't accept the Gospel today doesn't mean that they're forever lost but only the called are going to come. Only the called have salvation. A good example of that is, (26) For behold your calling, brethren, that not many wise after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called:].... It's not many who are called to begin with. The calling is not to all. The calling is internal; the calling is a gift from God to those who are saved. The Bible never says all are called. Everything in this world was created for the purpose of manifesting sons of God and everything that Paul did was toward that purpose. He said in (2Ti.2:10) Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sake, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. God called His Son out of Egypt (Hosea 11:1), but then He tried Him in the wilderness to find out who was going to go on to the Promised Land. Those who went on into the Promised Land were God's elect. His whole purpose was for the elect, not for those who fell away in the wilderness. You see, God's grace has been given to all those who are called, but it's the elect among the called who are going to take advantage of it and that's the difference. Paul dealt with many, but everything he did was for the few, the elect. God used Paul to fulfill His purpose. (Joh.6:37) All that which the Father giveth me shall come unto me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. You will know those who the Father gave to Jesus because they shall come to Jesus. This is very interesting because the phrase “come to me” is used many places in Scripture. Jesus told the Jews in (Joh.5:39) Ye search the scriptures, because ye think that in them ye have eternal life; and these are they which bear witness of me; (40) and ye will not come to me, that ye may have life. That was obvious about most of the Jews then, who totally rejected everything that Jesus said. And it's obvious about those people today who reject everything that Jesus said, but did you know that some of those people who walked with Jesus, even as disciples, wouldn't come to Him? (Joh.6:66) Upon this many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Notice: 666. Only Father can cause a person to come to Jesus: (Joh.6:39) And this is the will of him that sent me, that of all that which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. (40) For this is the will of my Father, that every one that beholdeth the Son, and believeth on him, should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. (44) No man can come to me, except the Father that sent me draw him: and I will raise him up in the last day. It's not possible for anyone to come unto Jesus, except the Father draws them. It is possible for them to come to church and to believe many doctrines. They can go to an altar and accept Jesus as their Savior, even though we don't see anything in the Scriptures about that. But people will not come unto Jesus unless they are drawn by God.

As we enter 2026, we are invited to stop striving for life through effort or information and instead come to Christ for the refreshing that is already ours in salvation. Jesus calls the weary to take His easy yoke, to sow to the Spirit rather than the flesh, and to trust that righteousness, rest, and fruitfulness flow naturally from abiding in Him. When we allow Christ to refresh our souls, we become free to sow spiritual seed and experience the life of the Kingdom to the glory of God.

Welcome to Rabbi Sacks' commentary on the weekly Torah portion. This series of Covenant & Conversation essays explores the theme of finding spirituality in the Torah, week by week, parsha by parsha. The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. This piece was originally written and recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2011. Follow along with the full written article here: rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayechi/grandparents/ This week our FEATURED ARTICLE on Vayechi is available to read, print, and share, by visiting: rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayechi/generations-forget-and-remember/ The new FAMILY EDITION is now also available: rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation-family-edition/vayechi/generations-forget-and-remember/ For more articles, videos, and other material from Rabbi Sacks, please visit www.RabbiSacks.org and follow @RabbiSacks. ------------------------------- With thanks to the Schimmel Family for their generous sponsorship of Covenant & Conversation, dedicated in loving memory of Harry (Chaim) Schimmel.

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FAITH IS… with Pastor Rick Stevens – Criticism comes easily, but gratitude and faith invite deeper renewal. This reflection calls readers to rediscover covenant as the heart of God's relationship with humanity. Rooted in Scripture and the new covenant in Christ, it encourages trust over striving, communion over isolation, and a fresh beginning grounded in grace, love, and spiritual commitment...

Dr. Sears continues to show how the Old Testament complexity is intentional, how it grows alongside Restoration scripture, and how understanding covenants as relationships helps readers wrestle with the text and liken its stories to their own lives.YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/o76_n5be9e8ALL EPISODES/SHOW NOTESfollowHIM website: https://www.followHIM.coFREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook  WEEKLY NEWSLETTER https://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter  SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE00:00 Part 2 - Dr. Josh Sears01:50 We love the scriptures we spend time with05:13 Psalm 88 a poem by an anonymous author08:05 Why should I wrestle with these books?12:39 Heroes with character flaws15:35 Scriptures aren't a handbook or manual18:30 Utilizing all the scripture19:59 Sustaining President Oaks and Sister Oaks21:50 Covenant as relationship26:02 Different titles for broad ideas29:02 Why a family?32:28 We can learn about my covenant relationship34:42 God allows suffering37:02 God always comes to our aid40:51 Gathering is why we are here43:43 A preview of God never forsaking His children47:28 Trusting in Jesus Christ and encouragement to participate in 202654:25 End of Part 2 - Dr. Josh SearsThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com