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Welcome to Day 2936 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain and today is Day 2936 – Theology Thursday – Christ Consciousness and the Return of the Ancient Lie Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2936 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2936 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. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons are available on his website, theologyinfive.com.  Christ Consciousness and the Return of the Ancient Lie. The idea of “Christ consciousness” is often presented as a spiritual breakthrough where a person awakens to inner divinity. Jesus becomes a model of human potential rather than the incarnate Son of God. The appeal is obvious. It promises transcendence without repentance and enlightenment without submission. Yet behind the modern packaging stands a very old pattern. “Christ consciousness” is not a rediscovery of the teachings of Jesus. It is the rebirth of the ancient lie that humanity can ascend to divine status apart from Yahweh. From Eden to the pagan world, from the rebel watchers to the Gnostics, the same message has returned again and again. Its modern form is simply more polished and more deceptive. The first segment is: The Ancient Pagan Vision of Human Divinity. The idea that divine potential lies within the human soul is older than recorded history. Civilizations across the ancient world built their religions around the belief that humans could rise into the realm of the gods. In Egypt, initiation rituals promised access to hidden spiritual knowledge and the ability to traverse the worlds of the divine. The individual was told that the right rites and secrets could transform a mortal into a being of power. Early Greek philosophical schools detached the idea from ritual and reimagined it as an ascent of the mind. Through disciplined introspection, the soul could free itself from material limits and participate in the divine. In Mesopotamia, kings claimed divine sonship and presented themselves as intermediaries between heaven and earth. Their authority rested on the belief that humans could cross the boundary into divine identity. These systems differed, but they rested on a shared conviction. Divinity is within reach if one knows how to unlock it. “Christ consciousness” is simply the modern restatement of this worldview. It presents divinity as latent within each person, waiting to be awakened. In the ancient world, this was a spiritual pursuit. Today it is wrapped in therapeutic language. The underlying theology has not changed. The second segment is: The Deeper Pattern Beneath the Pagan Systems. Behind the rituals and philosophies of the ancient world lies a darker thread. Scripture describes a world after Eden where spiritual beings known as the watchers crossed boundaries Yahweh had set. They offered humanity knowledge not meant for them. The result was not enlightenment. It was corruption. Ancient traditions remembered these figures as culture bringers, sages, or divine intermediaries. Scripture describes them as rebels who distorted God's order and magnified human pride. The apkallu of Mesopotamian legend mirror this pattern. Their stories present them as semi-divine beings who brought advanced knowledge to humanity before the flood. Yet in the biblical worldview, this kind of ascent was always a counterfeit that led people away from the Creator. It encouraged humanity to seek elevation on terms that were forbidden. Modern spirituality celebrates the same impulse. “Christ consciousness” bypasses the Creator and promises transcendence through self-awareness. It is not accidental that this mirrors the oldest form of rebellion in the biblical story. It is the same attempt to seize divinity without God's blessing. The third segment is: Gnosticism and the Misuse of Jesus. Gnosticism took the ancient pagan vision of self-divinization and grafted it onto Christian language. It preserved the idea that salvation comes through unlocking hidden spiritual knowledge and added a new twist. Jesus became the revealer of this knowledge. He was not Yahweh in the flesh. He was not the crucified and risen Lord. He was a spiritual messenger who showed people the path to awakening their inner light. This allowed the Gnostics to attach their worldview to the authority of Jesus while stripping Him of everything that defines Him. The incarnation became unnecessary. The cross was reimagined. The resurrection was denied. Christ became a symbol for human potential rather than the Savior who restores humanity to God. “Christ consciousness” uses the exact same strategy. It employs the vocabulary of Jesus to promote a belief system that contradicts His identity and mission. This is not honoring Christ. It is exploiting His name to legitimize a worldview He explicitly rejected. The fourth segment is: The Biblical Vision of Humanity's True Calling. The tragedy of this deception is that it offers a counterfeit path to the very thing God already promises His people. Scripture declares that humanity was created to bear God's image and rule His creation under His authority. That vocation was not lost forever. It is restored in Christ. Jesus promises that those who belong to Him will reign with Him on the New Earth. Our resurrection bodies will be marked by glory and immortality. The destiny of redeemed humanity is not to awaken inner divinity but to receive resurrection life directly from the risen Christ. This is not a metaphor. It is the fulfillment of the plan Yahweh declared to Abraham. His family would shine like the stars and serve as His representatives forever. Every attempt to bypass the Creator and manufacture spiritual ascent is a pale imitation of this promise. Human beings cannot awaken what they do not possess. Only Christ can raise them into the glory intended from the beginning. The fifth segment is: The True Meaning of the Holy Ones. Modern spirituality treats “saint” as a moral compliment. Scripture treats it as a status. The New Testament uses the Greek word that translates the Old Testament term for the “holy ones,” the loyal members of Yahweh's divine council. Believers are given this title because they have been brought into that household by the work of Christ. This is not divinization through self-discovery. It is adoption through redemption. It is a restored identity, not a spiritual technique. Believers do not become gods. They become members of God's family, sharing in His mission and representing His rule. This is something no pagan system can produce. The sixth segment is: Judging Angels and the Restoration of Authority. Paul goes even further when he says that believers will judge angels. This statement reveals how far God intends to restore humanity. Those who are redeemed in Christ will participate in the judgment of the rebellious spiritual beings who misled the nations. This is the opposite of the path offered by pagan spirituality. Where the ancient world sought to submit to spiritual intermediaries for enlightenment, the redeemed will one day stand in judgment over them. No version of “Christ consciousness” can rival this. It promises temporary feelings of transcendence. Christ promises participation in the final victory that restores creation. In Conclusion. “Christ consciousness” is not an elevated understanding of Jesus. It is the revival of an ancient deception that has taken many forms across history. It repeats the pagan claim that divinity lies within. It mirrors the corruption introduced by the watchers. It copies the Gnostic strategy of using Jesus to promote a message He never taught. The Gospel is not a call to look inward for divine potential. It is a call to the One who is divine. Through Him, humanity receives life, resurrection, restored vocation, membership among the holy ones, and authority in the world to come. The New Age offers a shadow. Christ offers the reality. To further your understanding, consider these Discussion Questions. How does the modern idea of “Christ consciousness” repeat the core deception found in Eden, and what does this reveal about the unchanging nature of spiritual rebellion? In...

The newborn season can leave couples exhausted, overwhelmed, and struggling to find the time or energy for intimacy, but it doesn't have to mean losing connection with one another. In this episode, we talk about spiritual, emotional, and physical intimacy and how husbands and wives can pursue one another, give grace, and stay connected while navigating the chaos of a new baby.Discussion Questions:1. Which type of intimacy (spiritual, emotional, or physical) has been hardest for us to maintain in this season? Why?2. What is one thing I could do that would help you feel more seen, known, and cared for right now?3. What rhythms or “little rituals” could we create to protect our emotional connection, even when we don't have much time?4. How has our relationship with God changed since entering the newborn season? Where do we need to pursue Him together more intentionally?5. Are there ways either of us has been viewing intimacy primarily through the lens of our own needs? What would it look like to “outdo one another in showing honor”?6. How can we communicate honestly about physical intimacy without either spouse feeling pressured, rejected, or ashamed?7. What is one thing about our marriage in this season that we can choose to be grateful for?8. Instead of trying to get back to the way our marriage was before kids, what might God be inviting us to build in this new season?

Discussion Questions:For Summer 2026 use the Swedish Method of Bible Study:While reading a Bible passage, use the following symbols to mark what stands out to you as you read. Then talk about the marks you made with a friend, or write about them in a journal.• A lightbulb - anything from the passage that stands out or is interesting.• A question mark - did the passage spark any questions?• An arrow - how does this passage help you move forward in faith and walk in better relationship with others and the Lord?Prayer

Genesis 24 is one of the most richly layered stories in all of Scripture, and once we see the deeper picture it paints, it becomes impossible to read it the same way again. On the surface, it is the story of a faithful servant sent on a long journey to find a bride for his master's son. But beneath that, it is nothing less than a portrait of redemption itself. The unnamed servant mirrors the role of the Holy Spirit, who never draws attention to himself but points always toward the Son. The father who sends him reflects God the Father. And Isaac, waiting at home, represents Christ. Every detail, from the servant's humble prayer at the well to the extravagant gifts he carries, speaks to the lengths God goes to in pursuit of his bride. That bride, it turns out, is us. We are Rebekah in this story. And understanding that changes everything about how we see our worth, our calling, and the love God has lavished on us.## Sermon Notes: Genesis 24 — “I Will Go”### Main Text: Genesis 24  Genesis 24 tells the story of Abraham sending his servant to find a bride for Isaac. Pastor Rick presented this as a picture of God's redemptive plan.### 1. The Redemptive Picture in Genesis 22–24- **Genesis 22:** Abraham offers Isaac on Mount Moriah, pointing to the Father giving His Son, Jesus, at Calvary.- **Genesis 23:** Sarah dies, picturing Israel as the bride connected to the Father.- **Genesis 24:** The unnamed servant is sent to find a bride for the son, picturing the Holy Spirit calling the Church, the Bride of Christ.### 2. Abraham's Servant: Faithful and Humble- The servant is likely Eliezer, Abraham's longtime servant.- Though Isaac's birth cost him the inheritance, he remained faithful.- He does not seek attention for himself; he seeks success for his master.- This reflects the Holy Spirit, who testifies of Christ and glorifies the Son.### 3. Isaac Must Not Go Back- Abraham commands the servant not to take Isaac back to Abraham's former land.- God had promised the land to Abraham's offspring.- The bride must choose to come, but the son will not return to the old land.- This mirrors the call of Christ: “Forsake all and follow Me.”### 4. Rebekah's Choice- The servant prays for a clear sign: a woman who offers him water and waters his camels.- Before he finishes praying, Rebekah appears.- She is generous, diligent, and willing to serve.- Watering ten camels could have required 200–300 gallons of water.- The servant recognizes God's guidance and worships.### 5. “Do Not Delay Me”- Rebekah's family wants her to stay ten more days.- The servant insists that if God has prospered the way, they should not delay.- Rebekah is asked directly, and she responds: **“I will go.”**- This is the heart of the sermon: when God calls, our answer should be immediate obedience.### 6. We Are Rebekah- Rebekah represents the Bride of Christ.- The Holy Spirit calls us and gives us gifts as a preview of what is to come.- God sees His people as beautiful, loved, and chosen.- The story points forward to the marriage supper of the Lamb.## Practical Applications- Do not delay obedience when the Holy Spirit calls.- Stop looking back after putting your hand to the plow.- Serve faithfully even when there is no personal reward.- Trust God's guidance, even when the journey is long.- Remember: in Christ, God sees you as His beloved bride, not as your failures.## Discussion Questions1. What stood out to you most from the picture of Abraham, Isaac, the servant, and Rebekah?2. Why is delayed obedience so tempting?3. What does Rebekah's “I will go” teach us about faith?4. In what area might God be asking you to stop delaying?5. How does seeing yourself as the Bride of Christ change the way you view God's love?

Parenthood was never meant to be happen in isolation. But, what do you do when "help" isn't helpful? And how do you know if it's them or you? In the 3rd episode of the "marriage in the newborn season" series, we discuss how to invite community into your marriage, establish healthy boundaries with family, ask for help without shame, and raise your children alongside others.Discussion Questions- Why is it difficult to ask for help?- What practical help would bless us most during this season?- What boundaries do we want to establish with parents, in-laws, and visitors? Is there anything unfair in our boundaries?- How can we stay connected to our church and life group instead of isolating ourselves?- Who are the trusted people we want speaking into our marriage and parenting?- Are we receiving help with humility—or expecting it with entitlement? How can we practice gratitude?

Would You Leave Religion for Jesus? Discussion Questions for Hebrews 13: Read verses 1–3. What do love, hospitality, and remembering prisoners look like in practical terms today? Read verse 4. Why does God place such a high value on the marriage bed? How does honoring your spouse with your body reflect both belonging to Christ and the picture of Christ and His church? Read verses 5–6. What is the connection between freedom from the love of money, contentment, and God's promise, "I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you"? Read verse 7. The writer says to "imitate their faith," not simply imitate their behavior. What's the difference? Why not just copy their actions? Read verses 8–9 and react to this statement: God is always the same, but the covenant has changed. It's good for us to be strengthened by grace! Read verse 10. What are believers now "feasting on" in Christ that the Old Covenant could never provide? Read verses 11–14. Here we are told to "go out to Him outside the camp." What might it look like for us today to leave behind popular religious systems in order to identify fully with Jesus and His grace? Read verses 15–16. Under the New Covenant, what kinds of "sacrifices" does God actually desire from us? Read verses 20–21. What do you see God producing or working in you that you recognize as coming from Christ rather than from your own self-effort?

Discussion Questions:For Summer 2026 use the Swedish Method of Bible Study:While reading a Bible passage, use the following symbols to mark what stands out to you as you read. Then talk about the marks you made with a friend, or write about them in a journal.• A lightbulb - anything from the passage that stands out or is interesting.• A question mark - did the passage spark any questions?• An arrow - how does this passage help you move forward in faith and walk in better relationship with others and the Lord?Prayer

# Genesis 12–23: The God Who Provides## SummaryGenesis 12–23 marks a major shift in the biblical story. God calls Abram into a personal relationship and promises him land, descendants, and a blessing that will reach all nations.Abraham responds in faith, but his journey is not perfect. He struggles with fear, makes poor decisions, and sometimes tries to accomplish God's promises in his own way. Still, God remains faithful.In Genesis 15, God confirms His covenant by passing alone through the divided animals, showing that the promise rests on His faithfulness, not Abraham's perfection.God eventually gives Abraham and Sarah the son He promised, Isaac. Then in Genesis 22, Abraham is tested when God asks him to offer Isaac. Abraham obeys, trusting God to provide. At the last moment, God provides a ram in Isaac's place, and Abraham names the place “The Lord Will Provide.”Abraham's story reminds us that God desires relationship with us, remains faithful through our failures, and provides even when we cannot see how.**Big Idea:** Trust God, obey Him, and believe that He will provide.## Sermon Notes### 1. God Calls Abraham**Genesis 12:1–3**God calls Abraham to leave everything familiar and follow Him into the unknown.**Key Principle:** God desires a relationship with you, not just religious activity.### 2. Abraham's Faith Is Imperfect**Genesis 12:10–20**Abraham trusts God, but fear still causes him to make bad decisions, including lying about Sarah.**Key Principle:** Your weaknesses do not automatically disqualify you from what God is calling you to do.### 3. Abraham Chooses Trust**Genesis 13:1–18**Abraham lets Lot choose the land first. Lot chooses by sight, while Abraham trusts God with what remains.**Key Principle:** Choose by trust, not simply by appearance.### 4. Abraham Rescues Lot**Genesis 14:1–24**Abraham rescues Lot, meets Melchizedek, gives him a tenth, and refuses the king of Sodom's wealth.**Key Principle:** Live in a way that makes God's faithfulness visible.### 5. God Makes a Covenant**Genesis 15:1–21**God promises Abraham descendants as numerous as the stars. God alone passes through the covenant pieces.**Key Principle:** God's promises depend on His faithfulness, not our perfection.### 6. Abraham Tries to Rush God's Plan**Genesis 16–17**Abraham and Sarah try to produce God's promise through Hagar. Their shortcut creates pain, but God does not abandon them.**Key Principle:** God's timing is better than our shortcuts.### 7. God Provides Isaac**Genesis 21**After years of waiting, Sarah gives birth to Isaac.**Key Principle:** Waiting does not mean God has forgotten.### 8. The Lord Will Provide**Genesis 22**God tests Abraham by asking him to offer Isaac. Abraham obeys, trusting that God will remain faithful.At the last moment, God provides a ram in Isaac's place. Abraham names the place “The Lord Will Provide.”This points forward to the greater sacrifice God would provide through Jesus.**Key Principle:** We can trust God's provision even when we cannot see it yet.## Practical Applications1. **Take the next step of obedience.** What is one thing God has been asking you to do?2. **Stop forcing God's timing.** Identify one area where you are trying to control the outcome and surrender it to Him.3. **Choose trust over appearances.** Make decisions based on God's character, not simply what looks easiest or best.4. **Give God the credit.** Recognize where He has provided, opened doors, or carried you.5. **Prioritize your relationship with God.** Set aside intentional time this week for prayer, Scripture, and worship.6. **Lay down what you are carrying.** Give God the fear, burden, or uncertainty you have been trying to manage yourself.## Discussion Questions1. Where do you see Abraham growing in trust throughout these chapters?2. In what area of your life is it hardest to trust God's timing?3. Have you ever tried to force something instead of waiting on God?4. What does Genesis 22 teach us about obedience and trust?5. Where have you seen God provide in an unexpected way?6. What is one practical step of obedience God may be asking you to take?7. What burden do you need to surrender to God this week?> **“The Lord will provide.” — Genesis 22:14**

Welcome to Day 2926 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. Day 2926 – Theology Thursday – Biblical Leadership: A Study in Character, Consequence, and Integrity Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2926 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2921 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. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website, theologyinfive.com.   Biblical Leadership: A Study in Character, Consequence, and Integrity. Leadership in Scripture is never measured by charisma, military strength, or political skill. The biblical authors consistently judge leaders by their faithfulness, humility, and devotion to justice. The accounts of kings and rulers throughout the Bible reveal both the blessings that follow righteous leadership and the judgment that falls on those who abuse authority. These stories span Israel, Egypt, Assyria, and Babylon, showing that Yahweh holds all nations and rulers accountable, not only His covenant people. The first segment is: Pharaoh of Egypt: Pride That Brought a Nation to Ruin. The Pharaoh encountered in the Exodus account held absolute power within Egypt. His refusal to release Israel revealed a heart resistant to the authority of Yahweh. Even as the plagues displayed divine judgment, Pharaoh's pride pushed him toward decisions that harmed his people and devastated his land. His story is an enduring illustration of how leaders who elevate their own authority above truth bring suffering upon themselves and those they rule. The second segment is: King Saul: A Leader Consumed by Jealousy. Saul began his reign with promise, but his insecurity grew once David rose to prominence. Rather than celebrate Yahweh's deliverance through David, Saul viewed him as a rival. His jealousy hardened into paranoia, which shaped his leadership and led him to focus on David instead of protecting Israel. Saul's downward spiral demonstrates how internal corruption eventually reshapes every part of a leader's public role. His tragic end stands as a warning about the destructive nature of envy and fear. The third segment is: King David: A Leader After God's Heart Who Still Faced Judgment. David is remembered for his devotion to Yahweh and his role in unifying Israel. He displayed courage, integrity, and a shepherd's heart. His failures, however, reveal that even great leaders are not exempt from judgment. His sin with Bathsheba and his involvement in Uriah's death led to personal and national consequences. David's repentance and willingness to return to Yahweh show the humility that sets righteous leaders apart, even when they falter. The fourth segment is: King Solomon: Wisdom, Prosperity, and the Danger of Compromise. Solomon's early reign reflected wisdom and devotion. His construction of the temple and his administration brought peace and prosperity. Over time, his alliances and accommodation of foreign worship drew his heart away from Yahweh. The resulting spiritual compromise planted seeds that eventually fractured the kingdom. Solomon's life illustrates how gifted leaders fail when they drift from faithfulness. The fifth segment is: King Ahab: Greed and the Abuse of Authority. Ahab represents the danger of a leader who lacks moral grounding. His coveting of Naboth's vineyard and his willingness to accept Jezebel's deadly scheme expose a pattern of selfishness and corruption. Ahab used his authority to secure his own desires without regard for justice. The consequences that followed highlight the seriousness of exploiting power for personal gain and ignoring the responsibilities of righteous leadership. The sixth segment is: Sennacherib of Assyria: Blasphemy and the Fall of an Empire's Pride. Sennacherib's reign represented the height of Assyrian power. His campaigns were marked by cruelty and the oppression of surrounding nations. When he threatened Jerusalem and mocked Yahweh, he crossed the line from political aggression to spiritual defiance. Scripture records that Yahweh struck down his forces in a single night, showing that no king, no matter how powerful, can stand against the God of Israel. Sennacherib's fate reveals the limits of human power and the certainty of divine judgment on arrogant rulers. The seventh segment is: Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon: Pride Confronted by Divine Sovereignty. Nebuchadnezzar ruled one of the most powerful empires of the ancient world. His military victories and monumental building projects fostered a sense of self-exaltation. He demanded worship of the golden statue and boasted about his achievements without acknowledging Yahweh. His temporary downfall, recorded in Daniel, reveals how Yahweh humbles rulers who place themselves at the center of their own glory. Nebuchadnezzar's eventual repentance shows that Yahweh seeks restoration rather than destruction, even for pagan kings. The eighth segment is: Belshazzar of Babylon: Arrogance Without Repentance. Belshazzar provides a stark contrast to Nebuchadnezzar. During his infamous feast, he mocked Yahweh by drinking from the sacred vessels taken from the Jerusalem temple. His actions demonstrated reckless arrogance and spiritual blindness. Unlike Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar showed no humility or willingness to learn from past judgment. His rule ended immediately after Yahweh declared his kingdom weighed and found wanting. Belshazzar's story highlights the danger of leaders who dismiss warnings and treat sacred things with contempt. The ninth segment is: Religious Leaders in the Time of Jesus: Failing to Shepherd God's People. The Pharisees and Sadducees held positions of spiritual authority but often used their influence to elevate themselves rather than guide the people faithfully. Their fixation on outward observance blinded them to the heart of the Law. Jesus confronted their hypocrisy and exposed their failure to shepherd the people entrusted to them. Their example reminds readers that leadership becomes corrupt when it seeks reputation rather than responsibility. In Conclusion The biblical accounts of kings and rulers create a consistent moral vision of leadership. The stories of Pharaoh, Saul, David, Solomon, Ahab, Sennacherib, Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, and the religious leaders of Jesus' day show that authority is a trust given by Yahweh, not a tool for personal elevation. Leaders who walk in humility and justice create space for flourishing. Leaders who embrace pride, greed, or cruelty bring destruction on themselves and those under their care. Scripture reveals Yahweh as the one who judges unrighteous rule but also restores those who turn toward Him. True leadership reflects wisdom, integrity, and a heart aligned with His purposes. For further study, consider these Discussion Questions. How does Pharaoh's resistance to Yahweh set the tone for understanding how pride shapes destructive leadership throughout Scripture and the ancient world? In what ways do the stories of Saul, David, and Solomon show that a leader's private character inevitably affects the nation they govern? How does Ahab's corruption compare to the arrogance of Sennacherib, Nebuchadnezzar, and Belshazzar, and what patterns connect their failures? What can modern readers learn from Nebuchadnezzar's temporary repentance and Belshazzar's lack of repentance, especially regarding how leaders respond to correction? How does Jesus' confrontation of the Pharisees demonstrate that even spiritual leadership can collapse when authority is used for reputation rather than responsibility? Join us next Theology Thursday to learn Ascended Masters and the Return of Ancient Spiritual Deception. If you found this podcast insightful, please subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of  ‘Wisdom-Trek,  Creating a Legacy.'                          Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly,   I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal. As we take this Trek of life together, let us always:                      Liv Abundantly,     ...

Pregnancy and the first three months after bringing home a baby can be some of the sweetest and hardest days of your marriage. In this second episode of our "marriage in the newborn season" series, we talk honestly about pregnancy, postpartum recovery, sleep deprivation, serving one another, and how husbands and wives can protect their marriage while navigating the and "fourth trimester."Discussion Questions for Couples- What fears or anxieties do we each have about pregnancy or the postpartum season?- How can we better communicate our needs instead of expecting each other to read our minds?- What are practical ways we can serve one another during the first 90 days?- What rhythms (prayer, check-ins, date nights, etc.) do we want to protect after baby arrives?- How can we intentionally guard against resentment and entitlement?- What words of encouragement do we each need to hear more often in this season?

Send us Fan MailRELENTLESSPart 4 | The God Who Won't Give Up On PeopleSenior Pastor Keith Stewart August 09, 2026Have you ever been offended by God's grace? Not because He showed it to you, but because He showed it to someone else. The book of Jonah doesn't end with a whale. It ends with a question. A question about God's heart. A question about our enemies. A question about whether we've become more interested in justice than mercy. This Sunday we conclude RELENTLESS: The God Who Won't Give Up on People with a message entitled: WHEN GOD'S GRACE OFFENDS YOU It may be the most uncomfortable—and most important—chapter in the entire book. Come discover why Jonah ends without a happy ending... and why that may be exactly the point.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. The book of Jonah ends without telling us whether Jonah ever changed. Why do you think God inspired the book to end that way? What effect does that unfinished ending have on you personally? 2. Jonah wasn't angry because God was unjust—he was angry because God was exactly Who He said He was: compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love. Why do you think God's mercy can sometimes be difficult for religious people to accept?3. Read Exodus 34:6–7 and Jonah 4:2. Jonah quotes God's own self-description as an accusation rather than an act of worship. What does that reveal about Jonah's heart? Have you ever struggled with one of God's attributes because of how it affected someone else? 4. The message described anger as a "warning light on the dashboard" that often reveals something deeper beneath the surface. What tends to lie underneath your own anger—fear, disappointment, hurt, pride, frustration, or something else? 5. Discuss the illustration of the three circles: I – You – They. Who is easiest for you to understand? Who is easiest to stereotype or judge? Why do you think that happens? 6. The statement was made, "The book of Jonah is God's attempt to redraw those circles." What would it look like for God to redraw those circles in your own life? 7. Peter eventually learned that "God does not show favoritism" (Acts 10:34). What prejudices, assumptions, or categories might God still be challenging His Church to abandon today? 8. Jonah cared more about the plant than the people because the plant served his own comfort. Where are we tempted to value our comfort more than God's mission? 9. Throughout the book, God patiently pursued: the sailors, Jonah, Nineveh, and even Jonah again. What does that repeated pursuit teach us about God's character? Which example in the book speaks most powerfully to you? 10. The series concluded by saying:God refuses to abandon pagans.God refuses to abandon prophets.God refuses to abandon cities.God refuses to abandon bitter people.God refuses to abandon us.Which of those statements do you most need to hear today? Why? Closing Challenge This week, ask God to reveal one person you've quietly placed in the "they" category. Pray each day that God would help you see that person through His eyes rather than your own. Then look for one practical way to move them closer—from they, to you, through an intentional act of kindness, conversation, or prayer. Where does the spirit of Jonah still live in me—and what would it look like for the relentless grace of God to change my heart?

Discussion Questions:For Summer 2026 use the Swedish Method of Bible Study:While reading a Bible passage, use the following symbols to mark what stands out to you as you read. Then talk about the marks you made with a friend, or write about them in a journal.• A lightbulb - anything from the passage that stands out or is interesting.• A question mark - did the passage spark any questions?• An arrow - how does this passage help you move forward in faith and walk in better relationship with others and the Lord?Prayer

Jeremiah Porter - Regional Director - The 6:4 Fellowship Christian maturity is best measured by love. Click on the links below for additional Cascade Church resources. Connect Card: https://cascadechurch.org/connect  Give Online: https://cascadechurch.org/give Discussion Questions: https://cascadechurch.org/first-corinthians-discussion-questions

Drawing from John 15 and 16, this sermon confronts what Jesus identifies as the greatest spiritual danger facing his followers: the slow drift away from allegiance to him. Using the Greek root of the phrase "fall away" -- skandalizo, from which the English word "scandal" derives -- Mike teaches that the true scandal of the Christian life is not found in cultural or political controversies, but in the subtle, incremental process by which a believer exchanges the values of Jesus for the values of the world. The sermon challenges listeners to examine their personal values and assess whether those values align with Christ or with the world's system. It emphasizes that the Holy Spirit serves as both advocate and guide, working to convince the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment, while also protecting believers from the snares that lead to spiritual compromise. The sermon closes with a call to communal prayer and mutual encouragement as a means of resisting spiritual drift.Read John 15:13-17Jesus redefined friendship not as convenience but as covenant. He told his disciples that the greatest expression of love is laying down one's life for a friend. This kind of friendship demands loyalty, not just affection. Consider the values guiding your daily decisions. Are they rooted in the character of Jesus or shaped by the approval of the world around you? True friendship with Jesus means aligning your heart with his words, even when that alignment costs you something. Today, ask yourself honestly: whose friendship am I most loyal to when no one is watching? What is one area of your life where your values may be more shaped by the world than by Jesus? Write down your top three values and compare them honestly against the words and character of Jesus. Surrender any misalignment to him in prayer today.Discussion Questions:-The sermon drew a sharp contrast between the value systems of the world and the values of Jesus -- when you look honestly at how you spend your time, money, and energy, which value system do your choices most reflect?-The sermon suggests that the enemy does not need to convince you Jesus is not real, only that he is not good -- have you ever experienced a season where unanswered prayer or suffering caused you to quietly doubt God's goodness, and how did you navigate that?-The sermon described how a slow drift away from Jesus often begins with small, incremental substitutions of worldly values for his values -- what relationships in your life help you detect that kind of drift before it becomes a full departure?

Today, we embark on a journey through the first 11 chapters of Genesis, a foundational text that sets the stage for the entire Bible. These chapters cover 2,000 years of recorded history, from the creation of the universe to the scattering of humanity at the Tower of Babel. The opening verse, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth," encapsulates the essence of our Creator's omnipotence and omniscience. This simple statement introduces us to the concept of God as the sole architect of all that exists, a being who is outside of time and space, and who has the ability to conduct vast amounts of information in just a few words.As we delve into the creation story, we see the unfolding of God's plan, from the creation of the heavens and the earth to the formation of Adam and Eve. Genesis 2 details the creation of humanity, with God breathing life into Adam and crafting Eve from his rib. This act establishes the foundation of marriage and gender, setting the stage for the covenant relationship between God and humanity. The story then takes a tragic turn in Genesis 3, where Adam and Eve's disobedience leads to the fall of humanity and the introduction of sin into the world. This event has far-reaching consequences, affecting not only humanity but all of creation.The narrative then moves to the story of Cain and Abel, illustrating the destructive nature of sin. Cain's jealousy and anger lead to the first murder, a stark reminder of the power of sin to corrupt the human heart. This leads us into the catastrophic events of the flood, where God's judgment falls upon a world consumed by wickedness. Noah, a preacher of righteousness, builds an ark and saves his family and a remnant of animals, a testament to God's grace and mercy.After the flood, humanity attempts to establish its own order at the Tower of Babel, defying God's command to spread across the earth. God responds by confusing their language and scattering them, a pivotal moment that shapes the diversity of languages and nations we see today. This event underscores the importance of obedience to God's will and the consequences of human pride.As we conclude this overview, we are reminded of the cyclical nature of human history and the need for vigilance. Jesus warns us in Matthew 24 that the days before his return will be like the days of Noah, where life continues as usual until the flood comes. We are called to be awake, aware, and ready for his return, living in a world that increasingly mirrors the pre-Babel era, with technology and global interconnectedness reaching unprecedented levels. The day of the Lord is approaching, and we must remain steadfast in our faith, trusting in God's plan and his promise to return.## Sermon Notes — Genesis 1:1-11:9**Big Idea:** Genesis 1-11 lays the foundation for all of biblical theology, covering creation, the fall, and the flood.### 1. Creation (Genesis 1:1-2:3)- God created the heavens and the earth.- Genesis 1:1-2:3 describes the creation of the universe and humanity.- **Key principle:** God is the creator and sustainer of all things.### 2. Foundation of Marriage and Gender (Genesis 2:4-25)- God created Adam and Eve.- Marriage and gender roles are established by God.- **Key principle:** God determines the rules for marriage and gender.### 3. The Fall (Genesis 3:1-24)- Adam and Eve disobey God, leading to sin and death.- Satan's deception and the first prophecy of redemption.- **Key principle:** Sin has universal consequences, but God provides a way of redemption.### 4. The Spread of Sin (Genesis 4:1-26)- Cain and Abel's offerings and the first murder.- Sin leads to further disobedience and violence.- **Key principle:** Sin crouches at the door, but we must rule over it.### 5. The Flood (Genesis 6:1-9:17)- Humanity's wickedness and God's decision to flood the earth.- Noah's obedience and the ark.- **Key principle:** God's covenant with Noah and the rainbow as a sign.### 6. Dispersion of Nations (Genesis 10-11)- The Table of Nations and the Tower of Babel.- God's intervention to scatter humanity.- **Key principle:** God's plan to divide humanity into nations.### Practical Applications1. **Study the Bible** — Commit to reading and studying Genesis to understand the foundation of God's plan.2. **Guard against sin** — Be vigilant and rule over sin in your life, remembering its consequences.3. **Follow God's commands** — Like Noah, be obedient to God's commands and trust in His promises.4. **Be aware of the signs** — Stay alert and aware of the signs of the times, as Jesus taught.### Discussion Questions1. How does understanding the creation account in Genesis 1-2 affect your view of God's sovereignty and purpose?2. In what ways do you see the effects of sin in your daily life and community?3. How can we learn from Noah's obedience and apply it to our own lives today?4. What does the story of the Tower of Babel reveal about human pride and rebellion against God?5. How does the current global situation compare to the times of Noah and Babel, and what does this mean for us today?*"The day of the Lord is coming closer and closer, and the further humanity pushes into this idea that we need to be like God or cast Him down, we're getting very close to His return."*

This week, we continue our series chatting about the best 25 films of the 21st century (so far). Up today is our 21st film: Tom Cruise's surprisingly good Science Fiction War Film with a terrible name, Edge of Tomorrow.We are putting this list together based on the rankings of our Patrons. You can check out the list, compile your own, and help influence the top 25 over at Doofmovies.com!Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/doofmediaFollow us on Twitter: @doofmediaSee all of our podcasts and more at doofmedia.com!Time Stamps:1:40 - EDGE OF TOMORROW1:08:12 - Discussion Question and a whole lot of nonsense

Welcome to Day 2921 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. Day 2921 – Theology Thursday – Revenge and Justice in the Bible: Understanding the Difference Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2921 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2921 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. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website, theologyinfive.com.   Revenge and Justice in the Bible: Understanding the Difference. Human beings have always longed for justice. Every culture recognizes the need to put wrongs right and to protect the innocent. Yet intertwined with this longing is a dangerous impulse that distorts righteousness. Revenge tempts us to take matters into our own hands, to repay injury with injury, and to satisfy emotional desires instead of pursuing what is right. Scripture draws a sharp line between justice and revenge. One reflects the character of Yahweh. The other belongs to the broken impulses of a wounded heart. Understanding this difference is essential for personal integrity and for the health of a community shaped by the commands of God. The first segment is: The Nature of Revenge. Revenge rises out of emotion rather than principle. It springs from anger, hurt, humiliation, and a desire to make another person feel the same pain we have felt. It is rooted in the sense that a wrong demands to be answered. The problem is not the instinct for fairness. The problem is that human beings cannot separate that instinct from our limitations and emotional instability. As a result, scripture warns believers to resist the pull of vengeance. Paul captures this with unmistakable clarity in Romans 12 verse nineteen. He writes that believers must not take revenge but must leave room for God's wrath because vengeance belongs to Him alone. The call is not merely to refrain from retaliation. It is to acknowledge that we do not have the authority or the capacity to carry out perfect judgment. Revenge is the realm of self, driven by emotion and clouded by limited understanding. The second segment is: Vengeance Belongs to Yahweh. Scripture consistently teaches that vengeance is God's domain because only Yahweh can judge with complete knowledge, perfect righteousness, and unshakable impartiality. Human judgment is affected by blind spots, wounded pride, and distorted perspectives. Divine judgment is not. Yahweh vindicates His people and executes judgment in a way that restores righteousness without error or imbalance. Psalm 135 verse fourteen affirms that the Lord will vindicate His people and have compassion on His servants. His vengeance flows from His covenant commitment rather than from impulse. When believers surrender personal vengeance, they entrust justice to the One who sees every motive, every hidden intention, and every consequence long before they unfold. The third segment is: Justice as a Higher Calling. Justice is not emotional or reactionary. It is rooted in Yahweh's own character and is expressed through law, wisdom, fairness, and moral integrity. Justice restores what has been damaged. It protects the vulnerable and restrains the wicked. It does not inflict suffering for satisfaction but seeks to make right what has been made wrong. Micah 6 verse eight summarizes this calling with clarity. Yahweh requires His people to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with Him. Justice is not optional. It reflects who God is and how His people are meant to live in His world. Acting justly means upholding fairness even when emotions push us toward retaliation. It means refusing to let personal bias tilt the scales. It means honoring Yahweh by embodying His character. The fourth segment is: The Distinction Between Revenge and Justice. Revenge is personal and retaliatory. It is shaped by emotion and often exceeds what is fair. Justice is principled and restorative. It adheres to standards rather than feelings and refuses to show favoritism. Leviticus 19 verse fifteen commands Israel not to pervert justice, not to show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, and to judge neighbors fairly. This reveals that justice must rise above personal relationships, preferences, and injuries. A society guided by revenge collapses into cycles of escalation. A society guided by justice learns to restrain wrongdoing while protecting the innocent. Scripture never allows believers to confuse personal vendettas with righteous judgment. The fifth segment is: The Heart Behind the Commands. The biblical distinction between revenge and justice is not only about actions. It is about the transformation of the heart. Leviticus 19 verse eighteen commands Israel not to seek revenge or bear grudges but to love their neighbors as themselves. This shift from retaliation to love reflects the character of Yahweh. It calls believers to relinquish the emotional satisfaction of retaliation for the higher calling of love, patience, and trust in divine judgment. By resisting revenge, the believer steps into a life shaped by love rather than bitterness. By pursuing justice, the believer reflects the righteousness of God to the world. In Conclusion. Revenge masquerades as justice, but it destroys both the one who inflicts it and the community around them. It distorts righteousness and fuels cycles of harm. Justice, rooted in Yahweh's character, restores, protects, and upholds what is right. Scripture calls believers to let go of vengeance, to trust Yahweh with ultimate judgment, and to practice justice in ways that mirror His integrity. When we do this, we contribute to a community shaped by righteousness and compassion and reflect the God whose justice is perfect and whose love never fails. For further exploration, consider these Discussion Questions. How does personal emotion distort our perception of justice and make revenge feel justified? What safeguards exist in Scripture to prevent justice from becoming personal retaliation? How does trusting Yahweh with vengeance shape a believer's response to deep personal injury? What are the consequences for communities that allow revenge to replace justice? How can believers model biblical justice in a culture that often celebrates vengeance? Join us next Theology Thursday to learn Biblical Leadership: A Study in Character, Consequence, and Integrity. If you found this podcast insightful, please subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of  ‘Wisdom-Trek,  Creating a Legacy.'                          Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly,   I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal. As we take this Trek of life together, let us always:                      Liv Abundantly,      Love Unconditionally,              Listen Intentionally,            Learn Continuously,              Lend to others Generously,                 Lead with Integrity,                Leave a Living Legacy Each Day,                I am Guthrie Chamberlain, reminding you to,   “Keep Moving Forward,...

Give to help Chris make Truce Our season has spent a lot of time looking at how some evangelicals tied themselves to the GOP as the party became more conservative. But not every evangelical Republican was taken in by the conservative swing. In this episode, we're taking a look at Senator Mark Hatfield, an evangelical Republican who didn't follow the pack. Senator Mark Hatfield had a long and influential career in public service spanning nearly five decades. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II and earning degrees from Willamette University and Stanford University, Hatfield began his political journey in the Oregon Legislature, winning election to the Oregon House of Representatives in 1950 and then to the Oregon State Senate in 1954. He went on to become Oregon's youngest Secretary of State at age 34 and was elected Governor of Oregon in 1958, where he served two terms and oversaw the expansion of the state's infrastructure and environmental programs. In 1966, Hatfield was elected to the U.S. Senate, beginning a 30-year tenure that made him the longest-serving senator in Oregon's history at the time. In the Senate, Hatfield was known as a moderate Republican who often put conscience ahead of party, particularly on issues of war and defense spending. Deeply shaped by his wartime experiences and Christian faith, he consistently opposed military authorization bills, including votes against the Vietnam War and the Persian Gulf War, and co-sponsored efforts like a nuclear freeze resolution. Hatfield twice chaired the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, using that position to direct federal funds to Oregon for health, transportation, and research projects, and to support biomedical research at institutions like the National Institutes of Health. His independent approach earned him respect across party lines, and although the GOP shifted rightward over time, he remained a distinctive figure in national politics until his retirement in 1997. Sources: IMDB and Amazon reviews of the movie Bringing up Bobby Stand Alone or Go Home by Lon Fendall Transcript of the Keynote Address by Gov. Hatfield at G.O.P. Convention, NY Times, July 14, 1964 “CONVENTION ENDS; Extremism in Defense of Liberty ‘No Vice,' Arizonan Asserts” New York Times, July 17, 1964 Before the Storm by Rick Perlstein With God on Our Side by William C Martin FBI files on Mark Hatfield from archive.org Conflict and Conscience by Mark O. Hatfield. Between A Rock and A Hard Place by Mark O Hatfield Nixonland by Rick Perlstein “When a Candidate Conspired With a Foreign Power to Win An Election” by John A Farrell. Politico website, August 6, 2017. H. R. 17123 “The Amendment to End the War” Bill Bright and Campus Crusade for Christ by John G Turner One Nation Under God by Rus Walton “Born Again Politics” New York Times by Gary Wills. August 1, 1976. Congressional record, February 28, 1978. Discussion Questions: How would you describe Hatfield's faith? How did Hatfield defy conservative Republican evangelicals? Why did Hatfield oppose the Vietnam War? Would you have the courage to do what Hatfield did? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Having a baby changes everything, especially your marriage. In this first episode of our "marriage in the newborn season" series, we talk about the mindset, expectations, and biblical foundation couples need before entering the newborn season so they can thrive as teammates instead of simply surviving.Discussion Questions- What expectations do each of us have about how becoming parents will change our marriage?- What are we most excited about, and most nervous about, as we prepare for parenthood?- How can we intentionally prioritize our marriage after the baby arrives?- What conversations do we still need to have about finances, work, sleep, family, or expectations?

Discussion Questions:For Summer 2026 use the Swedish Method of Bible Study:While reading a Bible passage, use the following symbols to mark what stands out to you as you read. Then talk about the marks you made with a friend, or write about them in a journal.• A lightbulb - anything from the passage that stands out or is interesting.• A question mark - did the passage spark any questions?• An arrow - how does this passage help you move forward in faith and walk in better relationship with others and the Lord?Prayer

Stu H. - Adult Education Director Paul's encouragement and spurring on for the unmarried within the Church of Corinth.  Click on the links below for additional Cascade Church resources. Connect Card: https://cascadechurch.org/connect  Give Online: https://cascadechurch.org/give Discussion Questions: https://cascadechurch.org/first-corinthians-discussion-questions  

In this message, Mike explores one of the most striking moments in Jesus' final hours with his disciples -- his deliberate choice to redefine their relationship from servants to friends. Drawing from John 15, the sermon unpacks what it means that Jesus, the Lord of all creation, extended the title of "friend" to his followers. Mike challenges the congregation to move beyond a purely transactional or performance-based faith and into the deep, loyal, and sacrificial friendship that Jesus modeled through his death. Using the biblical definition of love from 1 Corinthians 13 as the foundation, the sermon argues that true friendship with Jesus requires choosing his value system over the world's, holding fast to conviction while remaining relationally engaged with those who do not yet know him.Read John 15:12-17Jesus does not merely tolerate your presence -- he chooses you. In John 15, he draws a striking line between servants and friends, and then deliberately places you on the friend side of that line. A servant follows orders without understanding the master's heart. A friend is brought into confidence, trusted with purpose, and loved with loyalty. This was not a casual invitation. It was spoken on the eve of the cross, which means it cost something. Sit with this today: the God who spoke the universe into existence looked at you and said, you are my friend. Receive that.What would change in your daily walk with God if you approached him as a friend rather than a distant authority? Set aside ten minutes today not to make requests of God, but simply to be present with him. Practice the kind of friendship that does not always need something fixed.Discussion Questions:-Jesus deliberately shifted the relationship with his disciples from servants to friends -- what personal barriers, whether rooted in legalism, past wounds, or a sense of unworthiness, prevent you from truly seeing yourself as a friend of God rather than merely a servant?-The sermon describes friendship as never neutral but always formative, shaping who we become -- in what ways have your closest friendships either drawn you toward or pulled you away from a deeper walk with Jesus?-Jesus warned his disciples that choosing friendship with him would mean the world would hate them, just as it hated him first -- where in your life are you most tempted to compromise your convictions in order to maintain the approval of the world?

This morning, we are reminded of the faithfulness of God, not just in the broader narrative of scripture, but in the very real and tangible growth of our church, Hope Church. Over the past couple of years, we've seen rapid growth, especially since moving into our current building, and with that came the challenge of accommodating more people. We've wrestled with this tension, and last year, we approached the owners of our building with the idea of buying the whole property. Though they weren't ready to sell, they offered us the opportunity to dream and explore expansion. This led us to a surprising turn of events: a man knocked on our door, offering a piece of land across from Daniel Boone High School that we had tried to purchase years ago. As of this weekend, we have this 20-acre property under contract, a testament to God's faithfulness and provision.Today, we delve into Romans 12:1-2, where we are called to present our bodies as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Rick explores the will of God through four aspects: the permissive, prudential, progressive, and perfect wills. The permissive will allows for human choice, even when it goes against God's desires, while the prudential will involves decisions where God expects wisdom and discernment. The progressive will reveals itself step by step, teaching us to walk with faith, and the perfect will aims for us to conform to the image of Christ, reflecting His love, joy, and peace. God's will is always good, acceptable, and perfect, and He desires for us to align our lives with His purposes. As we navigate the future of our church and our personal lives, we are called to trust God's faithfulness, even when the path ahead is unclear. The Holy Spirit is always faithful, never forcing our will but persistently guiding us towards His perfect will. We are encouraged to take one step at a time, trusting that God has a good plan for our lives. Will you follow where He leads, knowing that He is always faithful?## Sermon Notes — Romans 12:1-2**Big Idea:** The Holy Spirit guides us into God's will through various aspects, teaching us to walk with Him progressively.### 1. Permissive Will of God (Romans 12:1-2)- God allows wide range of choices, even sinful ones.- Israel's disobedience in the wilderness is an example.- **Key principle:** God's permissive will means He allows human choices while setting boundaries and directing history toward His ultimate purpose.### 2. Prudential Will of God (Romans 12:1-2)- Decisions for which Scripture gives no direct command.- Use wisdom, prayer, and discernment.- Examples: Choosing a college, buying a house.- **Key principle:** Use your brain and discernment in making decisions God hasn't explicitly commanded.### 3. Progressive Will of God (Romans 12:1-2)- God reveals His will progressively.- He gives enough light for the next step, not the full picture.- Takes faith to follow each step.- **Key principle:** God teaches us to walk with Him through faith, revealing His will step-by-step.### 4. Perfect Will of God (Romans 12:1-2)- God's complete will for us is to conform into the image of His son.- His will is good, acceptable, and perfect.- **Key principle:** God's perfect will for us is to reflect Jesus' character and be equipped for every good work.### Practical Applications1. **Obey what is already clear** — Identify and follow God's clear commands in Scripture.2. **Take a step of faith** — Move forward with what God has revealed, trusting Him for the next step.3. **Yield to correction** — Be open to God's redirection and correction.4. **Trust God with what is hidden** — Have faith that God knows the full plan even when we don't.5. **Align your life with God's will** — Make choices that reflect God's good, acceptable, and perfect will.### Discussion Questions1. How do you discern between God's permissive will and His perfect will in your life?2. Can you share a time when God revealed His will progressively in your life? How did you respond?3. What steps can you take this week to align more closely with God's will for your life?4. How does God's progressive will require faith and trust in Him?5. What does it mean to you to conform into the image of Jesus, and how can you do this more in your daily life?

In this bonus episode, Sister Catherine is joined by His Excellency, Most Reverend Giles Butler, OFM DD, as they answer the July Family Discussion Question in the Growing in Holiness Newsletter! And we would love to hear from our listeners! Would you rather host Jesus at your house and handle all the cooking and cleaning like Martha, or sit quietly at His feet listening to Him speak like Mary? You can comment on our YouTube Channel or email us at aimhigher.podcast@gmail.com. To listen to our episode about Martha and Mary: https://youtu.be/KGfdZ5Dnvts

Text:  1 Timothy 3:1-13 Big Idea: In God's household trusted leaders are qualified by character  1. Overseeing is a noble task, but overseers must be above reproach (v.1-7) 2. Serving brings a good standing, but servants must prove faithful (v.8-13)   Discussion Questions:  1. Why do churches so easily value charisma, giftedness, or visible success over proven character? What dangers come from confusing giftedness with godliness? 2. Which qualification in 1 Timothy 3:1–13 most challenges you personally, and what would growth in that area look like in your home, church, or relationships? 3. How can our church better recognize and encourage qualified elders and deacons while neither lowering Scripture's standards nor adding our own personal preferences to them?

Your phone can be an incredible tool, but it can also quietly become one of the biggest distractions in your marriage. In this episode, Derek, Andrew, and Gabrielle talk honestly about screen time, social media, work boundaries, pornography, and practical ways to make your spouse more important than your screen.RESOURCESHarris Creek Sermon Series “Removed”DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1- When do our phones distract us the most from one another?2- Have you ever felt less important than my phone?3- What boundaries around technology would help us connect more?4- What would one phone-free hour every evening look like?5- Is there any app that has more influence over me than it should?6- How can we help each other without becoming controlling?

Big Idea: Sin makes all relationships unhealthy.Romans 12:18If possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. I. Show grace to people who are far from Jesus.2 Corinthians 5:20Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us. We plead on Christ's behalf, “Be reconciled to God.”II. Seek help when people hurt you.Ephesians 4:31-32Let all bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.III. Separate when people are living a lie.1 Corinthians 5:11-13But actually, I wrote you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister and is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or verbally abusive, a drunkard or a swindler. Do not even eat with such a person. For what business is it of mine to judge outsiders? Don't you judge those who are inside? God judges outsiders. Remove the evil person from among you.Next Steps:Believe: I need to begin a relationship with Jesus today.Become: I will reflect Jesus' way of life in my relationships this week.Be Sent: I will start a gospel relationship this week.Discussion Questions:How do you know when a relationship has become unhealthy?Which is more dangerous for you right now, emotionally or spiritually unhealthy relationships?Are you more patient with Christians or people outside the faith?  Explain.Why doesn't the Bible give us permission to break off all hurtful relationships?When was the last time you broke off a relationship with someone who was living a lie?  How did it go?Who are you developing a Gospel relationship with?Pray for the wisdom to develop Christlike relationships this week.

Are You Trying to Please God the Wrong Way? Hebrews 11 is an invitation to fix your eyes on Jesus. In this message, Andrew Farley shows how the famous "Hall of Faith" points beyond human heroes to God's finished work in Christ. Discover why it's not really about the size of your faith and how everything God promised is already yours through the finished work of Jesus. Discussion Questions for Hebrews 11: Read verses 1–3. How does faith help us trust the unseen God when our visible circumstances seem to tell a different story? Read verse 4. Why was Abel's sacrifice "better," and how does Jesus give us a far better sacrifice than anything we could offer? Read verses 5–6. What does this passage reveal about pleasing God, and how can we stop trying to impress Him through religious performance? Read verses 8–12. Where might God be inviting you to trust His character even though you cannot yet see the outcome? Read verses13–16. How can remembering our better, heavenly country bring peace when this world feels disappointing, unstable, or unfair? Read verses 32–38. Why can both deliverance and endurance be expressions of faith, and how does this correct outcome-based ideas about trusting God? Read verses 39–40. What "something better" do we possess in the New Covenant that these faithful Old Testament believers never experienced?

Discussion Questions:For Summer 2026 use the Swedish Method of Bible Study:While reading a Bible passage, use the following symbols to mark what stands out to you as you read. Then talk about the marks you made with a friend, or write about them in a journal.• A lightbulb - anything from the passage that stands out or is interesting.• A question mark - did the passage spark any questions?• An arrow - how does this passage help you move forward in faith and walk in better relationship with others and the Lord?Prayer

Zac Price - Student Ministries Pastor Sunday service for July 26th, 2026 Click on the links below for additional Cascade Church resources. Connect Card: https://cascadechurch.org/connect  Give Online: https://cascadechurch.org/give Discussion Questions: https://cascadechurch.org/first-corinthians-discussion-questions  

Emma leads the congregation through John 15:1-11, exploring what it means to truly abide in Jesus as the true vine. Rather than treating spiritual fruit as a personal achievement or to-do list, she emphasizes that genuine, lasting fruit grows naturally from a deep, intentional connection to Christ. Drawing on the imagery of vineyards, root systems, and the gardener's care, she presents abiding not as a passive state but as an active, daily practice of seeking and acknowledging God's presence. She also highlights the essential role of the church community in sustaining and deepening that abiding life, concluding with a guided time of corporate scripture meditation to move the congregation from hearing about abiding to actually practicing it together.Read John 15:1-11Jesus does not invite us to try harder. He invites us to stay closer. In this passage, he makes a striking claim: apart from him, we can produce nothing of lasting value. The branch does not strain to grow fruit. It simply stays connected to the vine and fruit becomes the natural result. The same is true for us. Patience, gentleness, love, and peace are not disciplines we master through sheer willpower. They are the overflow of a life rooted in Jesus. Today, resist the urge to manufacture fruit on your own. Simply remain. Where in your life are you straining to produce fruit through your own effort?What would it look like to release that area to Jesus today? Choose one moment today to pause, put your hands open at your sides, and simply acknowledge that you need Jesus. Let that posture become a prayer.Discussion Questions:-Jesus describes himself as the vine and his Father as the gardener in John 15:1-2, where the gardener both removes unfruitful branches and prunes fruitful ones to produce even more fruit -- what does this tell us about the nature of God's involvement in our lives, and how does it change the way you respond to seasons of loss or pruning?-Emma described abiding as intentionally seeking and acknowledging God's presence in every moment and allowing that presence to change you from the inside out -- in what areas of your daily life do you find it most difficult to maintain that kind of intentional awareness of God?-The sermon draws a distinction between striving to produce the fruits of the Spirit through personal effort versus naturally bearing fruit as a result of remaining in Jesus -- where in your own life have you noticed the difference between manufactured fruit and fruit that grew out of genuine connection with God?

How many of us have started something with great enthusiasm only to lose motivation along the way? This morning, we explore Philippians 1:6, where the Apostle Paul assures us that God is faithful to finish what He starts. Paul's statement, "And I am sure of this that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ," is a powerful reminder that our faith journey is not about our ability to hold on to God, but about God's faithfulness to hold on to us. God is the initiator; He begins the work in us, and He is committed to shaping and molding us more into the image of Jesus. This process, known as sanctification, is not always immediate, and growth can be messy, but God is always faithful. Through blessings and trials, God uses every moment to conform us to His image. The builder in the story of our lives sees the potential in the unfinished areas, just as God sees the potential in us. He doesn't waste a moment to make us more like Jesus. As we reflect on the areas in our hearts and lives that God is trying to transform, we are reminded that our story does not end with our struggles or failures. It ends with Christ finishing His work. Are we holding on to the confession of our hope, knowing that God, who promised, is faithful?## Sermon Notes### 1. God is Faithful to Start the Work (Philippians 1:6)- God initiates salvation- Before we loved Him, He loved us (1 John 4:19)- God brings new life in Christ (Ephesians 2:4-5)- God's love is unconditional (illustration: love for children)### 2. God is Faithful to Continue the Work (Philippians 1:6)- God is committed to shaping you into Christ's image- Growth is not immediate, but God is always faithful- God uses blessings, challenges, and trials to conform us to Christ (illustration: new home construction)- God's purpose is to conform us to the image of His Son (Romans 8:28-29)- God's faithfulness means every situation is used for His purpose### 3. God is Faithful to Complete the Work (Philippians 1:6)- Focus on future hope, not present circumstances- Jesus is coming back (Revelation 21:1-8)- God promises to sanctify us completely (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24)- God's faithfulness is attached to His character- Encouragement: God is working, even if it feels like He's silent### Practical Applications1. **Search me, Lord** — Pray for God to reveal areas in your life that need to be conformed to Christ.2. **Reflect on God's faithfulness** — Spend time each day meditating on how God has been faithful in your life.3. **Confess and repent** — Identify a specific sin and confess it to God, asking for His grace and forgiveness.4. **Surrender to God's will** — Pray for the courage to surrender any areas of your life that are not aligned with God's will.5. **Share your faith** — Invite someone to church or share your testimony with a friend who doesn't know Jesus.### Discussion Questions1. How has God's faithfulness impacted your life in a specific way?2. What are some areas in your life where you feel like God is still working and transforming you?3. How can we better trust in God's faithfulness during difficult times?4. What does it mean to you that God is committed to shaping you into the image of Christ?5. How can we practically support and encourage each other in our journey of sanctification?6. For those who have not yet placed their faith in Christ, what is holding you back from surrendering to God's grace today?

This week we take a quick break from our 25 in the 21st series to chat about Christopher Nolan's newest film: The Odyssey.  Next week's Discussion Question: Who is Odysseus to you?We are putting this list together based on the rankings of our Patrons. You can check out the list, compile your own, and help influence the top 25 over at Doofmovies.com!Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/doofmediaFollow us on Twitter: @doofmediaSee all of our podcasts and more at doofmedia.com!Time Stamps:2:00 - The Odyssey1:26:16 - Discussion Question

Most couples think about selfishness as an individual problem, but what if a marriage itself can become inward-focused? In this episode, Derek, Gabrielle, and Scott discuss what it means to steward your marriage for God's glory, leverage your resources for the Kingdom, and move from keeping score to living on mission together.Discussion Questions1- When we honestly evaluate our marriage, are we more inward-focused or Kingdom-focused? If someone observed our marriage for a month, would they conclude we're living on mission?Where do we tend to keep score against each other?2- Which area are we stewarding well? Not well? Time, Money, Resources, Health, Gifts3- Who outside our family is being impacted by our marriage?4- What is one practical step we could take this month to better leverage our marriage for God's Kingdom?

In this episode, we continue our book study on Friendship in the Lord and reflect on the ways God invites us to grow through the relationships He has entrusted to us. We talk about the importance of rightly ordered love, why true friendship always draws our gaze toward Christ, and the beauty of virtuous friendships between men and women. We also talk honestly about the fears, wounds, and misunderstandings that can arise in friendship, and the importance of repair in deepening a friendship. Friendship is not about finding someone to complete us, but about walking together toward holiness while helping one another become who God created us to be.    Other Resources Mentioned: Restore the Glory Podcast on Confession   Announcement: You can buy your copy from Ave Maria Press (or Amazon).   Journal Questions: When have I experienced healthy and holy friendship between men and women? Where is my gaze within my friendships? Do any of my friendships serve a higher purpose than just the friendship itself? When have I experienced enmeshment or avoidance within friendships? Do I prioritize my most important relationships? Who has the Lord especially entrusted to me?   Discussion Questions: How are you pursuing a friendship with the Lord? Do you think that men and women can have virtuous friendships? When have you unhealthily looked to a friendship to satisfy all your needs? Have you ever felt spread too thin in your friendships? Which example of holy friendship from the book resonates with you?   Quote to Ponder: "Just as love for neighbor proceeds from love for God, so does faith concerning creatures proceed from this love, whether it be general faith or special faith. As there's a general faith corresponding to the love which we ought to feel in general to every creature, so there is a special faith belonging to those who love one another more intimately, like the faith which has established a close particular love between us two." (St. Catherine of Siena)   Scripture for Lectio: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,  and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who are being protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, even if now for a little while you have had to suffer various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith—being more precious than gold that, though perishable, is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.  Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, for you are receiving the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls." (1 Peter 1:3-9)   Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 03:35 Scripture Verse and Quote to Ponder 05:11 The Friendship of St. Catherine and Bl. Raymond 08:57 The Order of Friendship 11:40 Can Men and Women Have Virtuous Friendships? 16:43 Friendship Ordered Towards Christ 19:24 Why Friendship with God Comes First 23:51 Growing Through Different Stages of Friendship 28:02 Rupture and Repair in Friendship 31:48 Closing Prayer

Send us Fan MailRELENTLESSPart 1 | Running From MercySenior Pastor Keith Stewart July 19, 2026If you look around our culture today, everything seems to be divided into "us" and "them." Every day we're told who to fear, who to blame, who to despise, and who deserves our outrage. The anger comes from the right and from the left, and before long it begins to shape our own hearts. What's surprising is that God's remedy for this isn't found in a New Testament command or a self-help book. It's found in one of the shortest books of the Old Testament—the book of Jonah. Because Jonah isn't really written for irreligious people. It's written for people like us. People who know God, worship God, and yet can still find themselves resisting the very things God loves. Jonah has a great deal to teach us about who God is, how God works, and how He wants to transform our hearts.Discussion Questions 1. Before hearing this message, what did you think the book of Jonah was primarily about? Did anything in this week's teaching challenge or expand your understanding of the story? 2. Pastor Keith said, "The book of Jonah is a mirror." In what ways do you see yourself in Jonah's attitudes or actions? 3. Why do you think Jonah resisted God's call to Nineveh? Was it fear, prejudice, nationalism, hatred, or something else? What does his motivation reveal about the human heart?4. Read Jonah 1:1–3. Jonah ran in the opposite direction of God's command. What are some ways people today can run from God without ever leaving home? 5. The sermon emphasized that all people matter to God. Why is that truth sometimes easy to affirm in theory but difficult to practice with certain people? 6. Pastor Keith asked several searching questions:  Who scares you?  Who offends you?  Who can you not stand?  Who would you rather see judged than forgiven?Without naming individuals if it would be inappropriate, why do you think those questions are so difficult to answer honestly?7. Throughout Jonah 1, the pagan sailors often behaved more compassionately than God's prophet. What do you think God is trying to teach us through that surprising reversal?8. The message suggested that Jonah's deepest problem wasn't simply disobedience but misdirected love—he loved his nation more than God's heart for the nations. What are some good things that can become disordered loves in our own lives?9. Read John 3:16–17 together. How does verse 17 deepen or reshape your understanding of verse 16? 10. Pastor Keith closed by praying, "God, make me into a grace giver, not just a grace receiver." What would that look like in one specific relationship or situation this week?Closing PrayerAsk God to reveal any "Jonah heart" within us—a place where resentment, prejudice, fear, or self-righteousness has replaced compassion. Pray that God would help us see people the way He sees them and become willing participants in His relentless pursuit of those He loves.

What Can't They Take From You? Discussion Questions for 10:32-39: Read verse 32. How does remembering God's past faithfulness strengthen you during present suffering? Read verse 33. How does your identity in Christ help when others shame, reject, or misunderstand you? Read verse 33. Why does knowing Christ shares our suffering help us stand with others who are hurting? Read verse 34. What better, lasting possession(s) do believers already have in Christ here and now? Discuss. Read verse 35. What great reward does confidence in Jesus bring into your life today? Read verses 36–38. How does trusting God's grace help you endure and stay in tune with His will? What is His will for you? Read verses 37–39. Consider your new identity in Christ and how it plays into you never shrinking back in unbelief (rejecting the gospel). Explain.

Discussion Questions:For Summer 2026 use the Swedish Method of Bible Study:While reading a Bible passage, use the following symbols to mark what stands out to you as you read. Then talk about the marks you made with a friend, or write about them in a journal.• A lightbulb - anything from the passage that stands out or is interesting.• A question mark - did the passage spark any questions?• An arrow - how does this passage help you move forward in faith and walk in better relationship with others and the Lord?Prayer

John Reynolds - Adult Ministries Pastor In 1 Corinthians 7:1–16, Paul reminds us that God's design for marriage, singleness, and sexuality is ultimately meant to display the gospel and bring glory to Christ. Whether married or single, every follower of Jesus is called to submit to His authority, trusting that His design leads to our good and his glory Click on the links below for additional Cascade Church resources. Connect Card: https://cascadechurch.org/connect  Give Online: https://cascadechurch.org/give Discussion Questions: https://cascadechurch.org/first-corinthians-discussion-questions  

This sermon explores Jesus's final words to His disciples in the Upper Room, focusing on His promise not to leave them as orphans. The central message addresses how believers often struggle with an "orphan spirit"—a mindset of living as though we are abandoned, unprotected, and forced to survive on our own, rather than as beloved sons and daughters of God. Through the promised Holy Spirit (the Paraclete), believers receive not just God's presence but His power, advocacy, and constant affirmation of their identity in Christ. The sermon challenges the congregation to stop confusing God's silence with His absence and to transition from trying to earn God's love through performance to resting in the security of being permanently adopted into His family. The key is learning to approach God's Word not as a legal obligation or audit of performance, but as a love letter from a Father who speaks life-giving promises over His children.Read John 14:15-18Jesus promised He would not leave us as orphans. In your moments of silence from God, remember that silence does not equal absence. The disciples faced their greatest fear—abandonment by the One who gave them identity and purpose. Yet Jesus assured them of the Holy Spirit's coming. Today, examine where you've confused God's silence with His absence. Are there unanswered prayers causing you to doubt His faithfulness? The Spirit of God stands with His arm around you, silencing every accusation. You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned. His presence is with you forever—no conditions, no clauses, just unwavering commitment to remain with you always.Discussion Questions:-In what ways have you confused God's silence with God's absence in your own life, and how might understanding the difference transform your relationship with Him?-How does viewing God's Word as a love letter rather than a rulebook change the way you approach Scripture and obedience?-Which of the promises listed in the sermon (forgiven, loved, chosen, blameless, complete, etc.) do you struggle most to believe about yourself, and why?

This sermon explores Jesus's final words to His disciples in the Upper Room, focusing on His promise not to leave them as orphans. The central message addresses how believers often struggle with an "orphan spirit"—a mindset of living as though we are abandoned, unprotected, and forced to survive on our own, rather than as beloved sons and daughters of God. Through the promised Holy Spirit (the Paraclete), believers receive not just God's presence but His power, advocacy, and constant affirmation of their identity in Christ. The sermon challenges the congregation to stop confusing God's silence with His absence and to transition from trying to earn God's love through performance to resting in the security of being permanently adopted into His family. The key is learning to approach God's Word not as a legal obligation or audit of performance, but as a love letter from a Father who speaks life-giving promises over His children.Read John 14:15-18Jesus promised He would not leave us as orphans. In your moments of silence from God, remember that silence does not equal absence. The disciples faced their greatest fear—abandonment by the One who gave them identity and purpose. Yet Jesus assured them of the Holy Spirit's coming. Today, examine where you've confused God's silence with His absence. Are there unanswered prayers causing you to doubt His faithfulness? The Spirit of God stands with His arm around you, silencing every accusation. You are not forgotten. You are not abandoned. His presence is with you forever—no conditions, no clauses, just unwavering commitment to remain with you always.Discussion Questions:-In what ways have you confused God's silence with God's absence in your own life, and how might understanding the difference transform your relationship with Him?-How does viewing God's Word as a love letter rather than a rulebook change the way you approach Scripture and obedience?-Which of the promises listed in the sermon (forgiven, loved, chosen, blameless, complete, etc.) do you struggle most to believe about yourself, and why?

Conflict is inevitable in marriage, but it doesn't have to be destructive. In this episode, Derek, Andrew, and Gabrielle discuss how to move from unhealthy patterns of defensiveness and scorekeeping toward biblical reconciliation, healthy communication, and deeper intimacy.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS- When conflict arises, do you naturally move toward fight, flight, or freeze?- Which unhealthy conflict pattern shows up most often in your marriage?- What family-of-origin experiences influence the way you handle disagreement?- How would your conflicts change if your mindset became "How do we win?" instead of "How do I win?"- Do you have trusted people in your life who can help mediate conflict when needed?- Is there an unresolved conflict that needs a conversation this week? RESOURCES: The Thing Beneath the Thing by Steve CarterHarris Creek sermon series: "Conflicted" 

In this episode, we continue our book study on Friendship in the Lord and reflect on what it means to be truly known, deeply loved, and fully at home with another. We talk about why we must first learn to abide in the love of God, how appreciation helps others become who they were created to be, and what it looks like to grow in friendship over time. Whether friendship feels life-giving or challenging in this season of your life, we invite you to bring every desire, wound, and longing before the Lord, who first calls you His friend.    Announcement: You can buy your copy of Friendship in the Lord from Ave Maria Press (or Amazon).   Journal Questions: How is the Lord inviting me to cultivate deeper community where I live? Where in my life am I trying to love others without being in communion with God? Am I truly allowing the love of Christ to come out within a community? Am I at home with the Lord? How have I been possessive of my relationships within my community? When have I experienced belonging within community? How can I create more reverent space in my relationships to allow others to become?   Discussion Questions: How is the Lord calling you to mission? When you think about a friendship or marriage that you admire, what qualities of that relationship inspire you? Who are the people in my life that I feel at home with? How have you experienced possessiveness negatively impacting your relationships? Where do you long for a deeper sense of belonging? Which friends and relationships have played a role in helping you become who God has created you to be?   Quotes to Ponder: "The mission of joy and friendship within the Christian community is even more fundamental than the Church's mission to the poor and needy, because love and joy are the source from which all ministry to the sorrowing must flow." (Friendship in the Lord, Page 7)   "The wonderful mystery which is you is not complete until you are appreciated." (Friendship in the Lord, Page 19)   Scripture for Lectio: "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.  I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." (John 15:12-15)   Sponsor - Ascension: For the first time in more than 50 years, the Church in the United States will begin praying with a new translation of The Liturgy of the Hours starting in 2027. This long-awaited update marks a historic moment in the life of the Church and offers the opportunity for a renewed encounter with her daily prayer. Chosen by the USCCB as one of the official publishers, Ascension has carefully crafted an edition designed to serve the Church's prayer for generations. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to provide exceptional readability, lasting durability, and beauty worthy of this sacred tradition. Ascension's Edition features: Original commissioned artwork rooted in Catholic Tradition Top-of-the-line typesetting to maximize readability Custom Ascension Serif typeface to support extended prayer Durable Smyth-sewn binding and premium materials crafted for daily use Availability in multiple formats to support individual prayer needs Available in both Standard and Large Print formats, with three cover materials to choose from, The Liturgy of the Hours, Second Edition may be preordered as individual volumes or as the complete four-volume bundle. Volume II will begin shipping on January 1, 2027, in time for use beginning on Ash Wednesday, February 10, 2027. Experience the beauty of the Church's daily prayer in an edition thoughtfully crafted to support prayer for generations. Preorder The Liturgy of the Hours, Second Edition at www.AscensionPress.com/Abiding.   Timestamps: 00:00 Ascension 01:32 Intro 02:18 Welcome 02:37 Scripture Verse and Quote to Ponder 03:31 Mission Comes from Community 05:26 Abiding in God's Love First 10:42 The Feeling of Belonging 14:18 Appreciation is Necessary in Friendship 17:22 We Help Others Become Themselves 20:09 Intimacy is Being at Home with Someone 25:49 Being Attentive to Fear 26:59 Closing Prayer

Can a Christian Sin Away Their Salvation? Does Hebrews 10 prove you can lose your salvation? Many people think so, but only because they skip the context. Before the warning comes one of Scripture's greatest declarations of confidence: you're perfectly forgiven, forever cleansed, and welcomed into God's presence through Jesus' finished work. Discover why Hebrews isn't threatening believers with judgment but urging undecided people to embrace Christ. You'll leave with ten unshakable reasons to rest confidently in your relationship with Jesus. Discussion Questions for Hebrews 10: Read verses 19-20. What's the "new and living way"? How does it inspire "confidence"? What does verse 20 reveal about when it began? Read verse 21. In what ways is Jesus a greater priest than the priests of the Old Covenant? Read verse 22. What do "sprinkled clean" and "washed with pure water" communicate about what Christ has already done for us? Read verse 23. What does it mean to "hold fast" our confession, and why is God's faithfulness (not ours) the basis of our hope? Read verses 24–25. What is the purpose of gathering together? How is this different from a church-attendance "checklist" mentality? Read verses 26-28. What does "sinning willfully" mean here? How does "set aside" in verse 28 reveal the meaning? Read verse 29. What do the descriptions "trampled under foot," "regarded as unclean," and "insulted the Spirit of grace" reveal about the kind of rejection described here? Read verse 30. In the Old Testament quotation, who are "His people," and how does that context help us understand the warning? Skip to verse 39. Why is this final verse of the chapter such an important conclusion? What assurance does it give believers after the warnings?

He Must IncreaseJohn the Baptist embodied the whole Old Testament only to point away from himself. "He must increase, but I must decrease" wasn't resignation; it was joy. This week we look at what it means to find contentment not in our own increase, but in Christ's, and why that pattern of decrease has always been the path to glory. OutlineThe man: John, the Old Testament embodiedThe text: he must increase, I must decreaseThe calling: decrease, that he may increaseDiscussion QuestionsJohn found joy, not resentment, in decreasing so Christ could increase (v. 29). Where do you struggle most to celebrate someone else's increase over your own? "A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven" (v. 27). How would resting in that truth change the way you hold your gifts, role, or position in life? Verse 36 moves from belief to obedience — dead faith stops at belief, but living faith walks. Where is there a gap between what you believe and how you're actually living? The sermon traces self-denial through family, church, and community as the shape of the Christian life. Where is God calling you to decrease this season so someone else can increase?

Jeremiah Porter - Regional Director - The 6:4 Fellowship Your body matters to God. He created it, redeemed it, and dwells in it. So, use it for His glory! Click on the links below for additional Cascade Church resources. Connect Card: https://cascadechurch.org/connect  Give Online: https://cascadechurch.org/give Discussion Questions: https://cascadechurch.org/first-corinthians-discussion-questions

Sex is one of the most talked-about topics in culture, but can be one of the least understood topics in the church.This week, Derek and Gabrielle sit down with pastor and author Mick Murray to discuss God's beautiful vision for sexuality, how sin distorts intimacy, why marriage doesn't automatically heal sexual brokenness, and how couples can pursue greater intimacy, healing, and freedom together.RESOURCESBooks- A Beautiful Vision by Mick MurrayPodcasts- Meditations (Mick Murray)- Ideology (Mick Murray)DISCUSSION QUESTIONS- What messages about sex did you learn growing up?- Have we ever treated sex primarily as self-serving rather than self-giving?- Are there unspoken expectations about intimacy that we need to discuss?- What barriers currently keep us from greater emotional intimacy?- How can we invite God more intentionally into this area of our marriage?

In this episode, we begin our summer book study on Friendship in the Lord by Fr. Paul Hinnebusch, OP. We focus on the foreword and prologue and reflect on the difference between prudence and fear, the ways we self-protect in relationships, and our longing for authentic communion. We also talk about what it means to love without possessing, how to receive others as a gift, and why friendship is a foretaste of heaven.    Other Resources Mentioned: Friendship in the Lord Study Webpage Small Group Discussion Guide   Announcement: If you'd like a copy of Friendship in the Lord, you can buy your copy from Ave Maria Press (or Amazon).   Journal Questions: How do I self protect and hide myself in my relationships? When have I felt embarrassed by my own need for friendship? Do I allow people to be free in my relationships? How has a friend failed me and how have I failed a friend?   Discussion Questions: How do you define good friendship? How have your friendships brought you closer to the Lord? How is God inviting you to bring your relationships into closer communion with God? When have you experienced possessiveness in your friendships? What hopes and desires do I have for my friendships?   Quotes to Ponder: "A true friend is a sort of icon of God, an other through whom the Lord's kindness and mercy shine in a manner that binds up and anoints our brokenness." (Forward to Friendship in the Lord, Fr. John Burns, xv)    "As Fr. Hinnebusch says so well, "What a Christian friend wants above all else for the loved one is his or her communion with the Lord. The one I love, my wife, my husband, my friend, belongs first of all to the Lord. And in that sense, I am only the friend of the Bridegroom. He alone is true Spouse of each and every human heart. He must increase, while I must decrease."" (Forward to Friendship in the Lord, xvii)   "A friendship is two lives joined in love and lived as one. But friendship in the Lord is never two people closed in upon themselves. Each of the friends is fully open to the Lord and open to other friends in such a way that the friendship is always part of a larger community. The Christian community is a cluster of many friendships knit together." (Preface to Friendship in the Lord, xix)    Scripture for Lectio: "Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly.  But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: "Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,     and they shall name him Emmanuel," which means, "God is with us."  When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife,  but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus." (Matthew 1:10-25)   Sponsor - Ascension: For the first time in more than 50 years, the Church in the United States will begin praying with a new translation of The Liturgy of the Hours starting in 2027. This long-awaited update marks a historic moment in the life of the Church and offers the opportunity for a renewed encounter with her daily prayer. Chosen by the USCCB as one of the official publishers, Ascension has carefully crafted an edition designed to serve the Church's prayer for generations. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered to provide exceptional readability, lasting durability, and beauty worthy of this sacred tradition. Ascension's Edition features: Original commissioned artwork rooted in Catholic Tradition Top-of-the-line typesetting to maximize readability Custom Ascension Serif typeface to support extended prayer Durable Smyth-sewn binding and premium materials crafted for daily use Availability in multiple formats to support individual prayer needs Available in both Standard and Large Print formats, with three cover materials to choose from, The Liturgy of the Hours, Second Edition may be preordered as individual volumes or as the complete four-volume bundle. Volume II will begin shipping on January 1, 2027, in time for use beginning on Ash Wednesday, February 10, 2027. Experience the beauty of the Church's daily prayer in an edition thoughtfully crafted to support prayer for generations. Preorder The Liturgy of the Hours, Second Edition at www.AscensionPress.com/Abiding.   Timestamps: 00:00 Ascension 01:32 Intro 02:19 Welcome 07:06 Scripture Verse and Quote to Ponder 08:32 Becoming an Icon of God 10:21 Self Protection in Relationships 12:40 Adult Friendships Must Be Cultivated 15:11 One Person Cannot Satisfy All Our Desires 19:55 Christian Community is a Cluster of Friendships 23:39 The Temptation to Possess 27:42 Closing Prayer

If Jesus Sat Down, Why Are You Still Trying So Hard? The Old Testament priests never sat down because the work was never done. Jesus sat down because it was. In this message from Hebrews 10, Andrew Farley exposes the exhausting cycle of repeat confession, progressive forgiveness, and guilt-driven religion; and replaces it with the scandalous truth of the New Covenant. Your sins aren't covered. They're removed. You're not partly sanctified. You're fully set apart. Once for all. Sit down and believe it. Discussion Questions for Hebrews 10: Read verses 5–7. What do these verses reveal about the Father's heart and Jesus' willingness? Read verses 8–9. Where do Christians still mix the first covenant with the second, and why is that exhausting? Read verse 10. What changes when holiness (sanctification) is a once-for-all gift, not a lifelong achievement project? Read verses 11-12. What does standing vs. sitting represent here? Which are you doing? Why? Read verse 14. What arises within you when you hear that Jesus made you perfect forever? Objections? Celebration? Why? Read verse 15. How does this shape your view of the Holy Spirit's attitude toward you? Read verses 16–17. How does "sins remembered no more" change how you view yourself with God? Read verse 18. What modern "offerings" do people still bring today when forgiveness is already complete?

Welcome to Day 2896 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – Released from Sheol, Reembodied in Glory: A Revolutionary Promise in the Ancient Near East. Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2896 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2896 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. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found that his lessons are short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who desire to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons can be found on his website   theologyinfive.com.   Today's lesson is titled Released from Sheol, Reembodied in Glory: A Revolutionary Promise in the Ancient Near East. The promise of resurrection and glorified embodiment is so central to Judaism and Christianity that it's easy to overlook how unprecedented the concept was in the world of the Ancient Near East (ANE). In a cultural landscape dominated by bleak afterlife expectations, the biblical vision of a redeemed, reembodied existence shattered prevailing norms. The idea that humans might not only escape the grip of death but rise again in everlasting glory was nothing short of revolutionary. The first segment is: Death in the Ancient Near East: A Realm of Shadows. In the cosmologies of Mesopotamia, Canaan, and Egypt, the afterlife was not a place of joy or fulfillment. It was a necessary descent into Sheol, Irkalla, or the Egyptian Duat, a dim and dusty realm where all the dead, good or evil, shared the same fate. This was a land of no return, where the dead were stripped of vitality, feasted on dust, and faded into obscurity. In Mesopotamian myth, even kings and gods wept over this fate, and no one, not even the mighty, escaped. These views were not born out of nihilism but reflected a spiritual realism shared across the ancient world. Sheol and its counterparts like Irkalla and Duat were not metaphors. They were real destinations in the cosmology of the time, dreaded places where the dead existed as weakened, diminished shades. Life was fragile. Disease, war, and disaster struck without warning. The best a person could hope for was to retain a name among the living. Immortality was not life eternal, but legacy. The gods might live forever, but humans were destined for the shadowlands. The second segment is: Sheol in the Hebrew Bible: A Shared Inheritance. Early Hebrew thought shared many features with this ANE worldview. Sheol, as depicted in much of the Old Testament, was not a place of torment or reward but of silence and forgetfulness. Job lamented that the grave was a place where both the righteous and the wicked went. Psalmists cried out to God, not wanting to descend to Sheol where praise was no longer heard. What made Sheol especially terrifying was the possibility of not just existing in a diminished state, but being utterly destroyed. In the worldview of Israel and its neighbors, some spirits in Sheol could be devoured, consumed by greater powers such as the Rephaim or forgotten entirely. To be erased from memory was to lose all identity and hope. The dead could descend further into oblivion, where no legacy or relationship with the living or with God remained. In this view, Sheol was not a passive waiting area. It was a realm where final annihilation remained a threat. The third segment is: The Bosom of Abraham: Covenant Protection in the Realm of the Dead. Amid this grim expectation, later Jewish tradition introduced a dramatic contrast. The righteous were not abandoned to dissolution. Instead, they were gathered into what became known as the Bosom of Abraham. Far from being a metaphor, this designation marked out a region of Sheol reserved for those who belonged to the covenant. As seen in Luke 16, the faithful were carried by angels to a place of comfort and remembrance, not terror and erasure. This was not yet heaven, but it was a protected state. While others faded into silence or were at risk of destruction, those in the Bosom of Abraham were remembered, preserved, and awaited resurrection. It was a place of being known by God, a key distinction from the rest of the underworld. Even in Sheol, Yahweh made a distinction between those who were His and those who were not. This growing expectation set the stage for a greater hope, one not just of preservation, but of reversal. The fourth segment is: The Breakthrough: Resurrection and Embodied Hope. The first major crack in the prevailing view comes in Isaiah and Daniel, where we find explicit references to bodily resurrection: “Your dead shall live; their bodies shall rise.” These declarations were not metaphors. They were bold theological claims, ones that challenged the despair of the ancient world. No longer was Sheol the final destination. A day was coming when the faithful would be raised, not as disembodied spirits, but as reembodied beings, fully restored and transformed. The language hints at glory, justice, and joy, completely alien to the sorrowful tones of ANE afterlife texts. This was a radical theological move. The idea that the righteous would be bodily raised by Yahweh set Israel apart. The divine council rebelled, humanity fell, but God promised not just deliverance, but a glorified future beyond death. The concept did not develop in isolation. It was forged in contrast to the hopeless tomb-worlds of Israel's neighbors. The fifth segment is: Christianity: From Seed to Splendor. Christianity, rooted in Judaism, took this concept and revealed its full flowering. The Jewish hope of resurrection was never mere metaphor. It was a literal expectation of bodily restoration, rooted in prophetic texts like Daniel and Isaiah and affirmed in Second Temple writings, including the martyrdom accounts in 2 Maccabees. Christ's resurrection was not symbolic. It was the historic and physical defeat of death itself. For Paul, this event was not only proof of life after death, but the firstfruits of what all the faithful would experience. Christ's glorified body was a tangible preview of the embodied glory awaiting those who belong to Him. Whereas pagan religions occasionally flirted with ideas of apotheosis or immortality for heroes or emperors, the Christian claim was far more subversive. Every faithful believer, slave or free, male or female, Jew or Gentile, was destined to rise again in glorified embodiment. This was not mythic metaphor. It was cosmic revolution. The sixth segment is: Resurrection vs. Reincarnation or Spirit Survival Importantly, this vision differed from reincarnation, where the self dissolves or returns in new form, and from spirit survival, where a ghost or shade lingers. The biblical model insists on the restoration of the person, not merely their essence. The soul is not freed from the body. It is reunited with a perfected one. This was revolutionary not just in theology, but in anthropology. The human body mattered. The material world was not evil or illusory, as many surrounding philosophies taught. It was made good and would be remade. In Conclusion. In a world where death was final, where the grave was silent, and where the gods offered no escape, the biblical vision of resurrection was not merely hopeful. It was defiant. It redefined justice, identity, and destiny. No longer would the dead sleep forever. No longer would dust be the final word. From the ashes of Sheol, the faithful would rise, not as ghosts, but as glorified, embodied, eternal beings in communion with their Creator. To explore this subject further, please consider these Discussion Questions. How did Ancient Near Eastern views of the afterlife shape the early Israelite understanding of Sheol, and in what ways did Israel's theology begin to diverge? What does Yahweh's power over Sheol, as depicted in the Hebrew Bible, reveal about His nature compared to the gods of neighboring cultures? Why was the concept of bodily resurrection considered radical in the context of ANE beliefs about death and the afterlife? How does the promise of reembodiment challenge modern views that separate spiritual salvation from the physical world? In what ways does the Christian claim of universal resurrection and glorified embodiment subvert ancient notions of divine privilege and human limitation? Join us next Theology Thursday to learn Released from Sheol, Reembodied in Glory:...