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EDEN TO PARADISE Adam and Eve walked in the Garden of Eden with a blameless soul that they themselves had generated - before Satan appeared on the scene. Their souls enjoyed perfect relationship with God – knowing nothing but the love of God and being grateful and obedient to him in all things. When they were tempted and fell into disobedience their souls lost that perfect relationship and they were cast out of the garden. Eden was a beautiful garden and had many trees and they ate the fruit of them, except for two of the trees, the tree of the knowledge of good and evil and the tree of life. A river called Pishon flowed out from the garden where there was gold and the Bible says that the gold was good – a lot in that statement! The Garden of Eden was a picture of Paradise - a Persian word for a walled garden, and it signifies a state of perfect joy and peace, and divine presence. That divine presence and protection of their Paradise was lost for Adam and Eve and for humanity when they sinned against God and ate the forbidden fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. God then barred Adam and Eve from the Tree of Life to prevent them from eating its fruit and living forever in their fallen, sinful state. God said, "The man has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil. He must not be allowed to reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life and eat and live forever (Genesis 3:22). Death entered - awaiting resurrection. Five other things that were changed or lost by and through Adam and Eve in Eden and restored for us through Jesus in a new true Paradise. The Garden of Eden and future Paradise. The two trees – The Tree of Knowledge and the Tree of life – big changes. The River flowing from Eden to Paradise in Revelation – big change The gold of the garden becomes the substance of the Heavenly City in Paradise. The presence of God and its power in every present moment is now our Paradise. 1 When Paradise was closed off and barred to humanity because of Adam and Eve's disobedience it was reopened in Christ on the cross, as the Tree of Life. In Luke 23:43 a robber on a cross next to Jesus had just rebuked his fellow robber for mocking Jesus, saying to him ‘we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong'. He asked for Jesus to remember him in the Kingdom and Jesus said to him ‘Today you will be ‘with Me' in Paradise'. Access was given to a sinner who was mercifully and lovingly forgiven. Eden is not just reversed at the Cross - Paradise is now centred in a Person -‘with Me', Paradise is not simply where we go - it is what happens when nothing obstructs the presence of ‘God with us.' That is where Paradise started, and that's how we currently find it, and that's where it finishes in our final ‘age to age' existence. Adam in Genesis closed it, Jesus opens it, we live in it now – within us – Book of Revelation completes it. 2 The two trees – The Tree of Knowledge and the Tree of life. What we eat becomes physically part of us. What tree we eat from determines what we become in our inner life. The tree of Life is the indwelling life that Jesus won for us on the cross that we can choose by faith to live out of. The Tree of knowledge of good and evil that Adam and Eve ate separated them relationally from God and from one another. It became all about ‘What is good is only what is good for me' - ‘I am right and you are wrong' Instead of the knowledge of good and evil being the answer for humanity it became the problem. When Eve saw that it was ‘desirable to make one wise' and shared the fruit with Adam, their covetousness for that self-centred meaning of ‘good' corrupted their wisdom into foolishness. The Bible describes that tree of knowledge kind of wisdom. if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.( James 3:14+). James goes on to say that this corrupted wisdom causes us to live in conflict with others and in conflict within ourselves. We know we are eating from the wrong tree when we get emotionally involved in proving we are right and get irritable if someone won't see things our way. The Tree off Life prompts us to wait and listen for God to speak into the situation. The Tree of Life stood at the centre of the garden, and it represents ongoing participation in God's life - Not mere immortality, but dependent, relational life. Access was open until the fall. After the fall Humanity was barred from the Tree (Gen 3:22–24) and Cherubim guarded the way. The key meaning of the Tree of Life is sustained communion with God as the source of life so the crisis of our lives is not just death—it is the loss of access to divine life. The Tree Reappears as the Cross - Jesus “bore our sins in His body on the tree” (1 Peter 2:24) This is not accidental language. What was once guarded in Eden becomes given at the cross and the reversal is life changing. We can put to death the tree of knowledge in us and be risen up to life in the Tree of Life. It is a commitment of faith that works by love. 3 The River that flowed out from Eden flows through to Paradise in Revelation. This is now the River of Life within for the Tree of Life being Lived in Jesus. River once flowed from Garden – life flows from Jesus through Holy Spirit. Paul tells us that our life is now “in Christ” – we become participants in the flow Ezekiel 47:1 Then he brought me back to the door of the temple, and behold, water was flowing from below the threshold of the temple toward the east…7 I saw on the bank of the river very many trees on the one side and on the other. And he said to me, 9. “This water flows toward the eastern region and goes down and enters the sea; And everything will live wherever the river goes. Revelation 22:1 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb - through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations (ongoing). 4 The gold found in the garden - everything in the Heavenly City in Paradise is of gold. Gold speaks of value. It speaks of material value and also of spiritual value. The world stores up gold for economic power and influence and in this its value gets corrupted. The value of Spiritual Gold is that it speaks of the nature of God that dwells within us through Jesus. Peter wrote that the gold is tested through fiery trials of faith to be refined (1Peter 1:7) Job said, when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold. (Job 23:10). The ark of the tabernacle had gold on the inside and was covered by acacia wood on the outside – Humanity overlaying divinity. The interior of Solomon's Temple was overlaid with gold, the final dwelling place of God in the Old Testament. Jesus said he was that temple. And Paul says we are now that temple on earth. 1Corinthians 3:11 For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is. If anyone's work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. If anyone's work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire. Gold is always being revealed through what is being destroyed (the not us). The silver redemption shekel buys the gold of God's nature. Every man shall give a ransom for his soul…” Exodus 30:12 The silver is explicitly called atonement money, ransom money, Redemption is silver. Joseph and Jesus were both betrayed by silver. Both gold and silver can be corrupted. They appear in Revelation regarding Babylon's corrupted wealth – The gold is greed and silver is betrayal. Then silver disappears from Paradise in Revelation as final redemption has reached its goal and the Heavenly City is pure gold Revelation 21:18 The city was pure gold… And the street of the city was pure gold, 5 The presence of God - and the power of this present moment that Jesus owns. 2 Corinthians 5:13 Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you? Reconciliation awaits our believing and receiving by faith to experience our new reality of being as a ‘New Creation' (2Corinthians 5:14-21). God awaits the awakening of the world that he has reconciled. His longsuffering (macrothumia – extended heartfelt waiting without retaliation) is our age-to-age salvation (2Peter3:15) Faith comes into focus when we become conscious of what God is doing rather than what we are doing – God consciousness instead of self-consciousness. God desires drawing near to us more than we do to him, and he does this to achieve non-separation between himself and us – Divinity and humanity reconciled into one New Creation - God with us. Pray this reality into your spirit. Thank you Lord for your loving presence – and for your powerful work you are doing on my behalf in the world of the unseen. Thank you for your mercy on my shortcomings and your forgiveness that has gone before in all things. Thank you for this moment that you own in which you are reordering all things. Thank you for including me in this moment of your Kingdom being reordered in my life. That kind of faith leaves you living with a new hope Paul OSullivan pauloss@me.com
Jesus took my judgment in His body on the cross, Jesus replaced judgment from God with Peace with God through Justification. Have you received eternal peace with God through Jesus or do you still fear Judgment for eternity in the Lake of Fire? You can get peace with God right now:Acknowledge your sin - all the bad things a person does- what you have done that you know is wrong. Recognize your penalty - eternal separation from God forever in the Lake of Fire.Trust Jesus' payment on the Cross - Jesus paid your penalty when He (sinless) shed His blood for you (sinful) and died in your place.Ask God to forgive you for your sin based on Jesus payment and give you the gift of Eternal Life. Let me know if you need help.Write me at EncouragingChristians@gmail.comLet us encourage you and help you get discipleship.
Lent Series: Temple to the CrossSermon: Jesus Is Coming!Scripture: Matthew 21:1-17, Luke 19:29-40, John 12:12-19Speaker: Pastor Nick Williams
Pastor Drew Morgan preaches from Luke 23:26-43 on March 29, 2026.
"On The Road To The Cross: Jesus’ Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem” Matthew 21:1-22 ESV Luke 19:41-44 ESV Mark 11:25 ESV
"On The Road To The Cross: Jesus’ Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem” Matthew 21:1-22 ESV Luke 19:41-44 ESV Mark 11:25 ESV
Arriving at Golgotha, Jesus spoke a harrowing warning to the women he saw weeping for him along the road. At the ninth Station of the Cross, we'll examine the warning Jesus gave the women he called “Daughters of Jerusalem.” Then comes the tenth Station of the Cross: Jesus' crucifixion. With awe and trepidation, we'll witness Jesus, nailed to a cross, bear the full weight of human sin. We'll reflect on the words he spoke from the cross, discuss what Jesus accomplished there, and what it all means for our lives today.
What really happened during the final hours before the cross? From the Upper Room to the Garden of Gethsemane, every step reveals the cost of our redemption. Join Jim Scudder on InGrace as he walks these sacred places in Jerusalem and points us to the heart of the Gospel. Join the adventure!
All of us long to know with confidence the love and forgiveness that Jesus poured out at the cross. Yet we remain distant from this deeper experience of grace when we lose touch with our bottomless need for Christ or become paralyzed by shame. Thankfully Jesus doesn't beat us over the head with the cross — he gently woos us back with his unfailing mercy.Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi reflect on a poetic portrayal of the cross from Johann Gerhard, an author of classic Christian devotion. This discussion will help you personalize the cross as you experience Jesus bending down to kiss you, opening his arms to embrace you, and offering you his heart of passion and delight.(This special episode highlights the Take Heart devotionals we read and discuss each morning over breakfast during Soul Shepherding retreats. You can receive a new devotional sent to your inbox each month by setting up a recurring donation with Soul Shepherding!)Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding RetreatEarn a Certificate in Spiritual DirectionDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks
Pastor Jamaal Williams preaches from Luke 20:19-44 on February 15, 2026.
BIBLE STUDY| MIRACLES OF JESUS SERIES.|THE FIFTH MIRACLE OF JESUS pt.15| THE POWER OF RETREAT|JESUS WALKING ON WATER| CHIMDI OHAHUNA Key Scripture Focus: Isaiah 53:1–12 | James 2:13 | John 3:16 | Luke 23:34 | Romans 5:17–19 JESUS, OUR INTERCESSOR In this powerful continuation of our Miracle Series, we turn our hearts to the Cross and the intercessory ministry of Jesus Christ, our Advocate, our Mercy, and our Mediator. This episode focuses on the divine assignment of Jesus as the Intercessor for both saints and transgressors, revealing the unmatched love that moved Him to stand between judgment and mercy. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: - Mercy Speaks Where Man Cannot James 2:13 reminds us that only Mercy, Jesus Christ, can say “No” to judgment. Humanity cannot reject mercy, but mercy can override judgment. - Jesus in the Middle Though sinless, Jesus was crucified between two thieves, positioned as if He were the worst among them. This was not coincidence, it was prophecy fulfilled. He stood in the place of transgressors, bearing their shame to offer them forgiveness. - The Power Behind the Intercession The love of God was the instrument that delivered the intercessory assignment to Jesus. Without love, there would be no Cross, no prayer of forgiveness, no redemption. John 3:16 is not just a verse, it is the foundation of Christ's intercession. - Love Constrains Divinity While human beings are often driven by desires, divinity is moved by love. When our desires surrender, the love of God begins to work. And that love never leads to shame, it leads to glory. - Who Are the Transgressors? Transgressors are not just sinners, they are those who rebel, trespass, and break away from God's just authority. • They follow forbidden paths • They are deceived by foolishness • They quarrel with their Creator • They are apostates, like the first Adam, whose fall affected all mankind - The Intercession of the Cross Jesus' words on the Cross, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do”, was not just a plea. It was the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy. It was the moment when love stood between God and man, and mercy triumphed over judgment. This episode is a call to reflect on the mercy that still speaks today. Whether you are standing in need of intercession or being stirred to intercede for others, this teaching will awaken your understanding of Christ's ongoing ministry and the power of love that still constrains heaven on behalf of humanity. Listen now on the GRACELIFECOMI Podcast, where truth meets mercy, and every miracle reveals the heart of the Father. Kindly, stay updated on future episodes of this enriching series!. Any questions arising from this study can be submitted to chimdiohahunaministry@gmail.com. Check our bio to know how to give your love offerings to the ministry. Jesus is Lord.
If we want to know what God is like, let's look at Jesus—His love, compassion, and truth.
The Christmas manger is one of the first places we encounter God's gift of love—a love that finds its ultimate fulfillment at the cross, where God's Son, Jesus, gives Himself for the world. Today, we are invited to view the manger and the cross together, seeing them as one unfolding story of God stepping into our world and making room for us through Christ's life and death. As we reflect on this, may we remember that the greatest gift of Christmas is the life-giving, costly love of Christ.
12-13-25: St. John of the Cross – Jesus, God's Word to us. by
The world offers shifting versions of truth, built on feelings, trends, or opinions. But Jesus offers a truth that never changes—a truth that heals, aligns, and sets us free.
We get to live a life where God's love, God's grace, and God's power never change.
Because of Jesus, we are free to serve, love, and live for our living God.
The post The Father's Hearta for the Cross (Jesus Our Passover) appeared first on Vertical Life Church.
The post “To the thief on the cross, Jesus says, ‘Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.'” appeared first on Key Life.
Emma and Rosemary chat about what it means for us when we know that despite the hardship of the Cross Jesus still said Yes.
In the Epilogue of John’s Gospel we discover the risen, living, Jesus Christ forgives and restores The post In The Shadow of the Cross: Jesus Forgives and Restores appeared first on PLEASANT HILL COMMUNITY CHURCH.
Disordered Love: Sin isn't just bad behavior—it's often loving the wrong things too much, and the right things too little. Pride begins here.Pride vs. Humility: Pride makes everything transactional and self-centered. Humility asks, "Who are you?"—not "What can you do for me?"Jesus' Example: On Palm Sunday, Jesus entered Jerusalem in humility, not power. He modeled a life of service, not domination.The Way of the Cross: Jesus invites us to follow him by dying to pride and embracing the humility that sees every person as sacred.Freedom in Identity: We are “dust”—but sacred dust, made in God's image. Knowing this frees us from chasing status and lets us love well.Holy Week Question: Do we really believe that humble, sacrificial love is the path to life? Are we willing to follow it?
In the shadow of the cross, Jesus prays. The prayer recorded in John 17 precedes the prayer in the garden and reveals the heart, mission, and desire of Jesus. The post In the Shadow of The Cross: Jesus Prays (John 17) appeared first on PLEASANT HILL COMMUNITY CHURCH.
Welcome to our sermon series, "The Miracles of Jesus"! In this powerful episode, "How to Overcome Doubt," we explore how faith can help us navigate uncertainty, inspired by the miraculous works of Christ.Key Topics in This Episode:
In words that have become familiar to many, Jesus refocuses the attention on his followers from the impending loss, to the comfort of knowing him and knowing that he can be trusted in uncertain times. The post In the Shadow of the Cross: Jesus Comforts (John 1.1-14) appeared first on PLEASANT HILL COMMUNITY CHURCH.
Everything we have received, our talents and gifts, as well resources, all comes from God, for He is the giver of life. In Him we live and move and have our being.
radiantvisalia.comWord & Deed: We are Witnesses: Forgiveness, Part Iwith Travis AicklenScripture: Matthew 6:9-15, Colossians 3:12-13, Romans 12, 2 Corinthians 5:19, Isaiah, Ephesians 4:31-32, Mark 11:25-26, Ephesians 4:26-27Intro: Jesus, in teaching the Lord's Prayer, emphasizes one key action: forgiveness. This sermon explores the misconceptions and realities of forgiveness, highlighting its importance in our lives and witness.Key Points:One Job: In the Lord's Prayer, forgiveness is the primary action Jesus calls us to. We are to pardon and release those who don't deserve it.Misconceptions of Forgiveness:It's not approving of the offense.It's not excusing the offense.It's not automatic reconciliation.It's not denying the offense.It's not forgetting the offense.It's not neglecting justice.Realities of Forgiveness:It's a release.It's stopping keeping score.It's refusing to punish.It's being merciful.It's from the heart.It's an absence of bitterness.It's an ongoing process.The Spite House: Holding onto unforgiveness traps us in a small, confined space, hindering our freedom and witness.The Cross: Jesus' sacrifice demonstrates the ultimate act of forgiveness, tearing down dividing walls.Conclusion:Forgiveness is a mandate, not an option, for Christians.Bitterness is the alternative to forgiveness.Forgiveness is a release, not a recoding.We must rehearse forgiveness as much as we rehearse the story of the hurt.Call to Action:Reflect on areas of unforgiveness in your life.Practice releasing those who have hurt you.Choose to stop keeping score.Rehearse forgiveness.Receive communion as a reminder of Christ's forgiveness.Participate in the forgiveness prayer offered. Support the show*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.
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"If politics is robbing you of peace, you might have misplaced your trust." Mic drop please for the quote above from today's show. Today the Pastor of my church Bent Tree Bible, Libin Abraham, joins us to dive into the tricky (but important) topic of Christians engaging in politics. We talk about how it's not just about showing up—it's about being prayerful, peaceful, prophetic, powerful, and purposeful. But the big reminder here? Our top loyalty is to Jesus, not any political party. We're here to make disciples, not stir up more division. Aside from talking about Christians engaging in politics, Libin also encourages us to trust in God's faithfulness, and that stepping out in faith is key as we do that—I love how Libin says that God moves at the pace of our next “yes.” So if you're feeling pulled to act, trust that God's right there with you. And don't let politics, fear, or anything else get in the way of your gospel influence. I can't wait for you to hear today's show and I'd love for you to share it with friends. All things Cynthia Yanof Bent Tree Bible Fellowship Libin Abraham's sermons on Christians engaging in politics: Jesus and Politics: The Way of the Cross Jesus and Politics: The Way of the Church Jesus and Politics: Rules for Engagement
Exploring the Signs of Jesus' Glory in the Book of John In the podcast episode, Nicole Unice delves into the significance of Jesus's signs in John 2 and 3. These signs not only reveal Jesus' divine nature but also illustrate profound themes of hospitality, justice, and personal transformation. The First Miracle: Water into Wine The episode begins with the account of Jesus' first miracle at a wedding in Cana, where He turns water into wine. This event is significant for several reasons: Celebration and Hospitality: Weddings in Jewish culture are grand celebrations that can last several days. The absence of wine would have been a major social faux pas, reflecting poorly on the hosts. By performing this miracle, Jesus demonstrates His concern for joy and hospitality, emphasizing that He cares about the everyday moments of life, not just dire circumstances. Abundance: The miracle is characterized by abundance; Jesus doesn't just provide a little wine but an overwhelming amount, showcasing His generosity. This theme of abundance recurs throughout the Book of John, highlighting that Jesus offers more than what is necessary. Revelation of Glory: The miracle serves as the first sign through which Jesus reveals His glory. Interestingly, it is not the wedding guests who recognize this glory, but His disciples, who come to believe in Him as a result. This points to the idea that true understanding and faith often come from being close to Jesus and witnessing His works firsthand. The Cleansing of the Temple Following the wedding miracle, the narrative shifts dramatically to Jesus cleansing the temple. This event reveals another facet of Jesus' character: Righteous Anger: Jesus' actions in the temple demonstrate His passion for justice. He is angered by the exploitation of the poor, who come to the temple to make sacrifices. The money changers and sellers are taking advantage of their need, turning a sacred space into a marketplace. This act of cleansing the temple shows that Jesus is not only a figure of hospitality but also one who stands against injustice. Challenge to Religious Authority: When the religious leaders demand a sign to validate His authority, Jesus responds cryptically, foreshadowing His death and resurrection. He indicates that true worship will not be confined to a physical temple but will be found in Him. This confrontation sets the stage for ongoing conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities, illustrating that following Him may lead to challenges and opposition. The Conversation with Nicodemus The episode concludes with Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, a Pharisee who comes to Him at night. This dialogue introduces the concept of spiritual rebirth: Spiritual Transformation: Jesus tells Nicodemus that one must be "born again" to see the Kingdom of God. This idea of spiritual rebirth is central to understanding the transformative power of faith in Christ. It emphasizes that entering into a relationship with Jesus requires a fundamental change in one's life and perspective. The Sign of the Cross: Jesus references the story of Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness, drawing a parallel to His own impending crucifixion. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the serpent, so too will people find eternal life by looking to Jesus on the cross. This connection underscores the simplicity and depth of the Gospel message: belief in Jesus leads to salvation. God's Love for Humanity: The well-known verse John 3:16 encapsulates the essence of the Gospel: God's immense love for the world and His desire for all to have eternal life through faith in His Son. This message of love and hope is a cornerstone of Christian belief. Journal your questions: Talk to God about how it feels to know the very first sign of his glory was at a party and sparked joy. Do you experience joy and hospitality in your life? How can you invite someone into that? What signs are you asking for? When have you seen God's glory? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
It's week three of our journey through the ABC's as Catholics. That means we are on the letter C, and C is for CROSS! Join us as we dig into the question of the cross. Jesus didn't "have to" save us through His death on the cross, but He did. So what does this tell us? + MONDAY: It all started in Eden + TUESDAY: The Cross demonstrates how much God loves us + WEDNESDAY: On the Cross Jesus modeled obedience + THURSDAY: Through the Cross Jesus delivered us from sin AND won graces for us. + FRIDAY: Jesus's death on the Cross demonstrates human diginity. Hoping to see you this Saturday, August 24th inside the Clubhouse for our conversation with the Sisters of Mercy from Alma, Michigan. To log into the Clubhouse or sign up for a membership, head here: https://catholicsprouts.com/clubhouse Also, DOWNLOAD the entire set of ABC's of the Catholic Faith Coloring pages here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/podcastabccoloring Find fun, meaningful, faith-filled projects for your own family in the Catholic Family Resource Library. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/ Catholic Sprouts is a production of Spoke Street Media. For more great Catholic podcasts, check out spokestreet.com
It's week three of our journey through the ABC's as Catholics. That means we are on the letter C, and C is for CROSS! Join us as we dig into the question of the cross. Jesus didn't "have to" save us through His death on the cross, but He did. So what does this tell us? + MONDAY: It all started in Eden + TUESDAY: The Cross demonstrates how much God loves us + WEDNESDAY: On the Cross Jesus modeled obedience + THURSDAY: Through the Cross Jesus delivered us from sin AND won graces for us. + FRIDAY: Jesus's death on the Cross demonstrates human diginity. Hoping to see you this Saturday, August 24th inside the Clubhouse for our conversation with the Sisters of Mercy from Alma, Michigan. To log into the Clubhouse or sign up for a membership, head here: https://catholicsprouts.com/clubhouse Also, DOWNLOAD the entire set of ABC's of the Catholic Faith Coloring pages here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/podcastabccoloring Find fun, meaningful, faith-filled projects for your own family in the Catholic Family Resource Library. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/ Catholic Sprouts is a production of Spoke Street Media. For more great Catholic podcasts, check out spokestreet.com
It's week three of our journey through the ABC's as Catholics. That means we are on the letter C, and C is for CROSS! Join us as we dig into the question of the cross. Jesus didn't "have to" save us through His death on the cross, but He did. So what does this tell us? + MONDAY: It all started in Eden + TUESDAY: The Cross demonstrates how much God loves us + WEDNESDAY: On the Cross Jesus modeled obedience + THURSDAY: Through the Cross Jesus delivered us from sin AND won graces for us. + FRIDAY: Jesus's death on the Cross demonstrates human diginity. Hoping to see you this Saturday, August 24th inside the Clubhouse for our conversation with the Sisters of Mercy from Alma, Michigan. To log into the Clubhouse or sign up for a membership, head here: https://catholicsprouts.com/clubhouse Also, DOWNLOAD the entire set of ABC's of the Catholic Faith Coloring pages here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/podcastabccoloring Find fun, meaningful, faith-filled projects for your own family in the Catholic Family Resource Library. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/ Catholic Sprouts is a production of Spoke Street Media. For more great Catholic podcasts, check out spokestreet.com
It's week three of our journey through the ABC's as Catholics. That means we are on the letter C, and C is for CROSS! Join us as we dig into the question of the cross. Jesus didn't "have to" save us through His death on the cross, but He did. So what does this tell us? + MONDAY: It all started in Eden + TUESDAY: The Cross demonstrates how much God loves us + WEDNESDAY: On the Cross Jesus modeled obedience + THURSDAY: Through the Cross Jesus delivered us from sin AND won graces for us. + FRIDAY: Jesus's death on the Cross demonstrates human diginity. Hoping to see you this Saturday, August 24th inside the Clubhouse for our conversation with the Sisters of Mercy from Alma, Michigan. To log into the Clubhouse or sign up for a membership, head here: https://catholicsprouts.com/clubhouse Also, DOWNLOAD the entire set of ABC's of the Catholic Faith Coloring pages here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/podcastabccoloring Find fun, meaningful, faith-filled projects for your own family in the Catholic Family Resource Library. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/ Catholic Sprouts is a production of Spoke Street Media. For more great Catholic podcasts, check out spokestreet.com
It's week three of our journey through the ABC's as Catholics. That means we are on the letter C, and C is for CROSS! Join us as we dig into the question of the cross. Jesus didn't "have to" save us through His death on the cross, but He did. So what does this tell us? + MONDAY: It all started in Eden + TUESDAY: The Cross demonstrates how much God loves us + WEDNESDAY: On the Cross Jesus modeled obedience + THURSDAY: Through the Cross Jesus delivered us from sin AND won graces for us. + FRIDAY: Jesus's death on the Cross demonstrates human diginity. Hoping to see you this Saturday, August 24th inside the Clubhouse for our conversation with the Sisters of Mercy from Alma, Michigan. To log into the Clubhouse or sign up for a membership, head here: https://catholicsprouts.com/clubhouse Also, DOWNLOAD the entire set of ABC's of the Catholic Faith Coloring pages here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/podcastabccoloring Find fun, meaningful, faith-filled projects for your own family in the Catholic Family Resource Library. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/ Catholic Sprouts is a production of Spoke Street Media. For more great Catholic podcasts, check out spokestreet.com
What do you do when God speaks and says something you don't like? Welcome to the Daily Devo. I am Vince Miller. This week, we are reading 1 Samuel 3. I've titled this chapter "Into Our Silence God Speaks." Today, I am reading verses 11-14, it reads: Then the Lord said to Samuel, “Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which the two ears of everyone who hears it will tingle. On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end. And I declare to him that I am about to punish his house forever, for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons were blaspheming God, and he did not restrain them. Therefore I swear to the house of Eli that the iniquity of Eli's house shall not be atoned for by sacrifice or offering forever.” — 1 Samuel 3:11-14 Samuel is not just receiving any communication but direct communication from God. Let that sink in. Samuel is hearing the voice of the Lord in the house of the Lord from the Lord Himself—inspiring and humbling. Four Realities About God's Voice To Man But I want to pause briefly and state four realities about this experience. First, every believer, at some point, wishes they could have an experience like this with God. Second, some think they are hearing God's voice when they are not. Third, others say they have heard God's voice and use it to coerce or control others. Fourth, and this is the vital point. You can hear from God and speak to God all the time. We hear from God in his Word. We are directed by God by his Spirit. We hear from God through other believers who are also in God's Word and led by the Spirit. We can speak with God in prayer, and God gives divine direction through events around us. You can have a very lively, vibrant, real communication with God all the time. This is one of the benefits of the Cross: Jesus made it possible for us all to access God at any time and anywhere (Eph. 3:11-12, Luke 23:44-47, John 14:6-7). When God Speaks, And You Don't Like It The startling issue of this communication from God is that it was a divine message with a damning message. God told young Samuel that his mentor, the High Priest of Israel, and his family would no longer have their sins atoned. That's eternal damnation by God. The message is "You are going to Hell." So, let me make an observation: God speaks a lot, but we don't listen. God's Word is His spoken word. If you want to hear from God, all you have to do is read His Word. In His Word, God has things to say about everything, but especially about you—your life, sin, vocation, family, finances, marriage, identity, and holiness. But here's the problem: When we read God's Word and hear his message, we don't like what he says because God demands a change. He is Holy, and we are not. This means that his message to us is not always positive and predictive but frequently painful because God demands change. By chapter three, two men—Eli and Samuel—had heard from God. Eli and his sons were given plenty of time to hear and change. They didn't, so they were damned. But, now it's Samuel's turn to hear from the Lord. Will he embrace the discomfort and deliver the message, or not? We will see... But what about you? Do you want to hear from the Lord? If so, gird up your loins. Embrace the discomfort. Do what God says. This is what it is like for a fallen creature to hear from the Creator of all Humanity. God, help us be courageous today. Please speak to us, and may we hear your truth, embrace the discomfort, and do what you demand. Amen. #GodsVoice, #DivineCall, #CourageousObedience Ask This: How can we discern between our own desires and God's voice when faced with challenging decisions or messages? In what areas of our lives are we resisting God's call for change, and how can we cultivate a willingness to embrace discomfort and obedience? Do This: Embrace the discomfort and do what God says. Pray This: Lord, grant me the courage to listen attentively to your voice, even when it challenges me to change. Help me embrace discomfort and walk in obedience, trusting in your wisdom and guidance. Amen. Play This: The Truth.
Bonjour! Stephanie here. Obviously, I love every single guest I welcome on the show because otherwise, I wouldn't welcome them. And I read every single book. But once in a while, there's one that makes you pause, take a deep breath, and ponder deeply. This is what happened when I read “The Wood Between the Worlds” by Brian Zahnd. Just take a moment and ponder the title itself – I know I keep coming back to its profound poetry. It's about the Cross: Jesus and the Cross, the meanings of the Cross. Brian opens his book with these words: “I dare to write about God, which is admittedly an audacious undertaking. That a bit of sentient soil would venture to say something about the nature of the ineffable eternal must seem like the most absurd of fools errands. And yet, I venture. I cannot help myself. The depth of my fascination with the one who is the answer to the question of why there is something instead of nothing makes it impossible for me to remain silent on the subject. And when I dare to speak about God, I do so not as the idly curious but as a reverent worshipper. I seek to understand God not as a cold and dispassionate scientist, a “God-ologist,” if you will, but as one who prays, worships, and kneels before his maker.” “The Wood Between the Worlds” is made of 20 short chapters, each one a precious chocolate nugget nestled inside a fancy box. There is something Forrest Gump-like about it, too. Some of these chapters will probably unsettle you. You may not agree with everything. Just like with a box of chocolates, there might be some you like more, others less. Some spices may feel a little too pungent or not quite to your taste. And that's okay: if we only read things that we totally agree with all the time, things we completely understand, things that never challenge us, how then shall we grow? So, I invite you to be prepared to be shocked, maybe even to disagree with some of the things Brian writes. And that's okay. It's a good thing. I don't ask you to agree with everything in the book, but I would invite you to please consider allowing it to challenge you, as it has me. To do otherwise is to emulate the cancel culture we speak so easily against. Brian's publisher, InterVarsity Press, is giving away several copies of his book “The Wood Between the Worlds,” to Gospel Spice listeners. You need to be signed up for our newsletter to receive the email that will be sent out a few days after this episode airs. So, if you're not signed up, make sure to sign up now to the Gospel Spice newsletter so you can enter for a chance to win a copy of Brian's book. I'm telling you, it's totally worth it. It's at gospelspice.com/signup ! ABOUT “THE WOOD BETWEEN THE WORLDS” The Cross is the heart of Scripture. Everything about the gospel message leads to the cross, and proceeds from the cross. In fact, within the narrative of Scripture, the crucifixion of Jesus is literally the crux of the story―the axis upon which the biblical story turns. But it would be a mistake to think we could sum up the significance of the crucifixion in a tidy sentence or two. That kind of thinking only insulates us from the magnificence of what God has done. In our ongoing quest to make meaning of the cross, we need to recognize that this conversation will never conclude―that there is always something more to be said. Brian Zahnd reminds us that the meaning of the cross is multifaceted and should touch every aspect of our lives. Just as gazing through the eyepiece of a kaleidoscope reveals a new geometric image with every turn, Zahnd helps us see that there are infinite ways to behold the cross of Christ as the beautiful form that saves the world. The Wood Between the Worlds is an invitation to encounter the cross of Christ anew. ABOUT BRIAN ZAHND Brian Zahnd is the founder and lead pastor of Word of Life Church in St. Joseph, Missouri. He is also a pastor-theologian who has authored eleven books, including Sinners In the Hands of a Loving God, When Everything's on Fire, and The Wood Between the Worlds. Brian is enthusiastic about music, literature, mountains, and long-distance pilgrimages. Find more at https://brianzahnd.com/ We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/ Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/ Shades of Red | Against human oppression https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/ God's glory, our delight https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/ Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!
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In today's lent reflection we identify the cross Jesus invites us to carry which is unique to each of over lives. Watch video podcast hereSupport the showSupport this show and get all future episodes by email atwww.kenandjanelle.com
We continue our journey toward the cross this week as we follow Jesus through scripture. In Mark chapter 14, we learn of the account of the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus prays in distress, overwhelmed with what He will be facing in His death on the cross. You see, we have a Savior who has always and will always deeply care. He was not simply in agony over death but the burden of the wrath of God as He carried all our sins to the cross. He suffered in that moment, the equivalent of an eternity in hell, just for us. Our role is to recognize that Jesus is the only way and surrender to Him because He is Lord and to ask for His will, not ours. What's keeping you from being amazed that at Jeus' darkest hour, you were on His mind? As you read Second Corinthians 5:21 – God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God – what stands in the way of you surrendering to Him as Lord? As always, if you've got questions, we'd love to take time to answer them and pray with you. If you've taken the next step in your faith journey, let us know by visiting burnthickory.com/next.
Mainstream Christianity may have lost sight of everything Jesus died for: For salvation, yet for more - an outpouring. For eternal life in heaven, and eternal life within you, on Earth. To bring living waters through you - now - even before you the great day of face-to-face with Him. He has come to make home in all who call on His name. But will you allow Him to move through your temple? Support Rise on Fire Ministries by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/rise-on-fire
In this latest episode of I Kid You Not, we're talking about a VERY tricky story: Good Friday! Join Resident Bible Scholar Erin Moon and Meredith Anne Miller as they walk through this when and how this story should be discussed with various age groups. Along the way, you'll hear about atonement theories, whether or not it is ok to not have one right answer, and why Jesus shows his nipples on the cross. MENTIONSEverything you need to know about Meredith Anne Miller: Instagram | Website | Ask Away PodcastWhere are we in the Bible? Matthew 26:36-27:61 | Mark 14:32-15:47 | Luke 22:39-23:56 | John 18:1-19:42Past IKYN Episodes: Primer | Creation | Adam + EveCan't get enough? Sign up for the I Kd You Not Newsletter Tell me more about atonement: Read Five Views on The Extent of AtonementAsk Away Episodes: Your Questions about Good Friday | Jesus Enters the City as a King | Jesus Dies on the Cross | Jesus is AliveLIL'FAVOREDSErin - Orphaned Believers by Sara BillupsMeredith - Bible Paper Dolls from We Who ThirstI KID YOU NOT HOTLINEAre you stumped by kid theology questions? Are you nervous about putting a kid in your life through the same religious trauma you went through, just repackaged? Send your question (or your kid's questions) to our I Kid You Not hotline. Our next episode will be the resurrection, so feel free to read that story to your kiddos, let them ask questions, and call or text us at 205-502-2863.BONUS CONTENT Over at The Bible Binge Seminary, you can hear a VERY special bonus episode all about the NOs of Church Talk! You can access this and SO MUCH MORE, including Mini-Favored or Forsaken episodes, monthly Fellowship Hall gatherings, and Open House episodes for just $5 a month. Join here!THE POPCASTCheck out our other podcast: The Popcast with Knox and Jamie. It's a weekly show about pop culture where we educate on the things that entertain, but don't matter. Here is our suggested Popcast starter playlist.Subscribe to our Newsletter: The Bible Binge BulletinGet The Bible Binge Merch: Shop hereShop our Amazon Link: amazon.com/shop/thepopcastFollow The Bible Binge on Socials: Instagram | Twitter | FacebookSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.