Podcasts about early christians

Veiling meant many things to the ancients. On women, veils could signify virtue, beauty, piety, self-control, and status. On men, covering the head could signify piety or an emotion such as grief. Late Roman mosaics show people covering their hands with veils when receiving or giving something precious. They covered their altars, doorways, shrines, and temples; and many covered their heads when sacrificing to their gods. Early Christian intellectuals such as Origen and Gregory of Nyssa used these everyday practices of veiling to interpret sacred texts. These writers understood the divine as veiled, and the notion of a veiled spiritual truth informed their interpretation of the bible. Veiling in the Late Antique World (Cambridge UP, 2026) provides the first assessment of textual and material evidence for veiling in the late antique Mediterranean world. Susanna Drake here explores the relation between the social history of the veil and the intellectual history of the concept of truth as veiled/revealed. New Books in Late Antiquity is Presented by Ancient Jew Review Susanna Drake is Professor of Religious Studies at Macalister College. Her first book was Slandering the Jew: Sexuality and Difference in Early Christian Texts. Michael Motia teaches Classics and Religious Studies at UMass Boston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Veiling meant many things to the ancients. On women, veils could signify virtue, beauty, piety, self-control, and status. On men, covering the head could signify piety or an emotion such as grief. Late Roman mosaics show people covering their hands with veils when receiving or giving something precious. They covered their altars, doorways, shrines, and temples; and many covered their heads when sacrificing to their gods. Early Christian intellectuals such as Origen and Gregory of Nyssa used these everyday practices of veiling to interpret sacred texts. These writers understood the divine as veiled, and the notion of a veiled spiritual truth informed their interpretation of the bible. Veiling in the Late Antique World (Cambridge UP, 2026) provides the first assessment of textual and material evidence for veiling in the late antique Mediterranean world. Susanna Drake here explores the relation between the social history of the veil and the intellectual history of the concept of truth as veiled/revealed. New Books in Late Antiquity is Presented by Ancient Jew Review Susanna Drake is Professor of Religious Studies at Macalister College. Her first book was Slandering the Jew: Sexuality and Difference in Early Christian Texts. Michael Motia teaches Classics and Religious Studies at UMass Boston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/intellectual-history

Veiling meant many things to the ancients. On women, veils could signify virtue, beauty, piety, self-control, and status. On men, covering the head could signify piety or an emotion such as grief. Late Roman mosaics show people covering their hands with veils when receiving or giving something precious. They covered their altars, doorways, shrines, and temples; and many covered their heads when sacrificing to their gods. Early Christian intellectuals such as Origen and Gregory of Nyssa used these everyday practices of veiling to interpret sacred texts. These writers understood the divine as veiled, and the notion of a veiled spiritual truth informed their interpretation of the bible. Veiling in the Late Antique World (Cambridge UP, 2026) provides the first assessment of textual and material evidence for veiling in the late antique Mediterranean world. Susanna Drake here explores the relation between the social history of the veil and the intellectual history of the concept of truth as veiled/revealed. New Books in Late Antiquity is Presented by Ancient Jew Review Susanna Drake is Professor of Religious Studies at Macalister College. Her first book was Slandering the Jew: Sexuality and Difference in Early Christian Texts. Michael Motia teaches Classics and Religious Studies at UMass Boston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Veiling meant many things to the ancients. On women, veils could signify virtue, beauty, piety, self-control, and status. On men, covering the head could signify piety or an emotion such as grief. Late Roman mosaics show people covering their hands with veils when receiving or giving something precious. They covered their altars, doorways, shrines, and temples; and many covered their heads when sacrificing to their gods. Early Christian intellectuals such as Origen and Gregory of Nyssa used these everyday practices of veiling to interpret sacred texts. These writers understood the divine as veiled, and the notion of a veiled spiritual truth informed their interpretation of the bible. Veiling in the Late Antique World (Cambridge UP, 2026) provides the first assessment of textual and material evidence for veiling in the late antique Mediterranean world. Susanna Drake here explores the relation between the social history of the veil and the intellectual history of the concept of truth as veiled/revealed. New Books in Late Antiquity is Presented by Ancient Jew Review Susanna Drake is Professor of Religious Studies at Macalister College. Her first book was Slandering the Jew: Sexuality and Difference in Early Christian Texts. Michael Motia teaches Classics and Religious Studies at UMass Boston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Veiling meant many things to the ancients. On women, veils could signify virtue, beauty, piety, self-control, and status. On men, covering the head could signify piety or an emotion such as grief. Late Roman mosaics show people covering their hands with veils when receiving or giving something precious. They covered their altars, doorways, shrines, and temples; and many covered their heads when sacrificing to their gods. Early Christian intellectuals such as Origen and Gregory of Nyssa used these everyday practices of veiling to interpret sacred texts. These writers understood the divine as veiled, and the notion of a veiled spiritual truth informed their interpretation of the bible. Veiling in the Late Antique World (Cambridge UP, 2026) provides the first assessment of textual and material evidence for veiling in the late antique Mediterranean world. Susanna Drake here explores the relation between the social history of the veil and the intellectual history of the concept of truth as veiled/revealed. New Books in Late Antiquity is Presented by Ancient Jew Review Susanna Drake is Professor of Religious Studies at Macalister College. Her first book was Slandering the Jew: Sexuality and Difference in Early Christian Texts. Michael Motia teaches Classics and Religious Studies at UMass Boston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/italian-studies

Veiling meant many things to the ancients. On women, veils could signify virtue, beauty, piety, self-control, and status. On men, covering the head could signify piety or an emotion such as grief. Late Roman mosaics show people covering their hands with veils when receiving or giving something precious. They covered their altars, doorways, shrines, and temples; and many covered their heads when sacrificing to their gods. Early Christian intellectuals such as Origen and Gregory of Nyssa used these everyday practices of veiling to interpret sacred texts. These writers understood the divine as veiled, and the notion of a veiled spiritual truth informed their interpretation of the bible. Veiling in the Late Antique World (Cambridge UP, 2026) provides the first assessment of textual and material evidence for veiling in the late antique Mediterranean world. Susanna Drake here explores the relation between the social history of the veil and the intellectual history of the concept of truth as veiled/revealed. New Books in Late Antiquity is Presented by Ancient Jew Review Susanna Drake is Professor of Religious Studies at Macalister College. Her first book was Slandering the Jew: Sexuality and Difference in Early Christian Texts. Michael Motia teaches Classics and Religious Studies at UMass Boston

Veiling meant many things to the ancients. On women, veils could signify virtue, beauty, piety, self-control, and status. On men, covering the head could signify piety or an emotion such as grief. Late Roman mosaics show people covering their hands with veils when receiving or giving something precious. They covered their altars, doorways, shrines, and temples; and many covered their heads when sacrificing to their gods. Early Christian intellectuals such as Origen and Gregory of Nyssa used these everyday practices of veiling to interpret sacred texts. These writers understood the divine as veiled, and the notion of a veiled spiritual truth informed their interpretation of the bible. Veiling in the Late Antique World (Cambridge UP, 2026) provides the first assessment of textual and material evidence for veiling in the late antique Mediterranean world. Susanna Drake here explores the relation between the social history of the veil and the intellectual history of the concept of truth as veiled/revealed. New Books in Late Antiquity is Presented by Ancient Jew Review Susanna Drake is Professor of Religious Studies at Macalister College. Her first book was Slandering the Jew: Sexuality and Difference in Early Christian Texts. Michael Motia teaches Classics and Religious Studies at UMass Boston Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

Good morning. Economists, climate scientists and delegates are gathered in Paris to address what's called the polycrisis: climate breakdown, political extremism and rising social tension. They're considering taxes on billionaires, reductions in working hours, a change in diets and transfering investment from industry to education and health. Right now, attention is focusing on tech bros. Some believe a few geniuses will invent our way out of our multiple crises, and are entitled to the rewards. Others maintain only a flattening of wealth across our whole society will make life sustainable beyond this generation. It seems like a face-off between liberty and equality. What's seldom recognised is that these are originally theological notions. Liberty says we're fundamentally solitary creatures. Our well-being is for ourselves to determine; sin is a personal failure: repentance is a chance for individual renewal. It's an imposition for the state to inhibit that. By contrast equality says we're fundamentally collective beings. Our situation in life is profoundly shaped by the social, economic and psychological conditions around us; sin is about structural and systemic forces beyond our individual ability to withstand: by combining with one another we find power to address them. The state rightly steps in to assist and protect when we're struggling, and to catalyse and redistribute to make society fairer. There's plenty of support for both positions in the Bible and theology. But another thing that's often overlooked is how these rival perspectives shaped the most basic things about early Christianity. Women and slaves flocked to the first-century church because there they found dignity and security in the face of the predations of their masters. Early Christians shared material goods and supported the needy. These were significant practices of equality. But the church also called for individual conversion. It never forgot the centrality of personal relationships and discipline. Most tangibly, it created a weekly event in which each person, based on their individual income and material affluence, brought their respective gift to a common table; whereupon a priest described the personal and social transformation made possible by Christ; after which everyone gathered ate and drank – but crucially, each received the same. Over the centuries this came to be called the eucharist or the mass, and was ritualised into an elaborate ceremony. But originally it was a vivid social practice that harmonised a focus on the individual in their gifts as well as their need for repentance, with the collective ideal that all could flourish and none need be left behind. To get through the polycrisis we're going to need all the wisdom we can get. But sometimes that wisdom lies in the past, not just the future.

If you enjoy this episode, we're sure you will enjoy more content like this on The Occult Rejects.  In fact, we have curated playlists on occult topics like grimoires, esoteric concepts and phenomena, occult history, analyzing true crime and cults with an occult lens, Para politics, and occultism in music. 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Trinity Press International, 1996. Key use: Essential source for early Christian architectural adaptation, especially the shift from domestic and semi-domestic gathering spaces toward more specialized Christian buildings. White's work is useful for showing that early Christian architecture develops inside a broader Roman social and architectural world, not in isolation.White, L. Michael. The Social Origins of Christian Architecture, Volume II: Texts and Monuments for the Christian Domus Ecclesiae in Its Environment. Trinity Press International, 1997. Key use: Companion volume for the textual and archaeological evidence behind the domus ecclesiae, early meeting spaces, and the built environment of pre-Constantinian Christianity.Yale University Art Gallery. “Christian Building.” Dura-Europos: Excavating Antiquity. Key use: Strong anchor for the Dura-Europos Christian building and its wall paintings. Yale notes that the Christian paintings were uncovered in 1932 and that Clark Hopkins described the murals as preserved from more than three-quarters of a century before Constantine recognized Christianity in 312.Yale News. “House Call: A New Study Rethinks Early Christian Landmark.” 2024. Key use: Useful cautionary source for not oversimplifying Dura-Europos as merely a domestic “house church.” The report highlights recent scholarship reexamining how domestic the Dura Christian building really was and why its architectural classification needs care.Smarthistory. “Dura-Europos.” Key use: Accessible overview of Dura-Europos as a multicultural Roman frontier site, including the adapted Christian building used as a meeting place and baptistery in the first half of the third century.Peppard, Michael. The World's Oldest Church: Bible, Art, and Ritual at Dura-Europos, Syria. Yale University Press, 2016. Key use: Major source for the Dura-Europos Christian building, its baptistery, biblical imagery, ritual use, and the danger of reading the site too simply through later church categories.Snyder, Graydon F. Ante Pacem: Archaeological Evidence of Church Life Before Constantine. Mercer University Press, revised edition, 2003. Key use: Important archaeological source for Christian life before Constantine, especially material evidence for worship, burial, symbols, and everyday Christian practice before public imperial privilege. Mercer University Press identifies the book as focused on archaeological evidence of church life before Constantine.Jensen, Robin M. Baptismal Imagery in Early Christianity: Ritual, Visual, and Theological Dimensions. Baker Academic, 2012. Key use: Core source for baptismal images, ritual meaning, water, initiation, death and rebirth, and the way visual programs frame baptismal practice.Jensen, Robin M. Understanding Early Christian Art. Routledge, 2000. Key use: Early Christian visual culture, catacomb imagery, baptismal scenes, Good Shepherd imagery, Jonah, Daniel, Lazarus, and the visual language of salvation and resurrection.Ferguson, Everett. Baptism in the Early Church: History, Theology, and Liturgy in the First Five Centuries. Eerdmans, 2009. Key use: Major historical and theological source for baptismal practice, initiation, immersion, anointing, catechesis, and the development of baptismal rites.Johnson, Maxwell E. The Rites of Christian Initiation: Their Evolution and Interpretation. Liturgical Press. Key use: Development of initiation rites, catechumenate, baptism, post-baptismal rites, and how Christian initiation becomes structured over time.Spinks, Bryan D. Early and Medieval Rituals and Theologies of Baptism: From the New Testament to the Council of Trent. Ashgate, 2006. Key use: Long-range ritual and theological development of baptism, useful for tracking how early baptismal space later becomes more formalized.Britannica. “Catacomb.” Key use: Baseline definition of catacombs as subterranean cemeteries composed of galleries or passages with recesses for tombs; useful for correcting the popular misconception that catacombs were primarily secret churches rather than burial landscapes.Stevenson, James. The Catacombs: Rediscovered Monuments of Early Christianity. Thames & Hudson, 1978. Key use: Classic overview of Roman catacombs, burial architecture, inscriptions, symbols, and early Christian memory.Rutgers, Leonard V. Subterranean Rome: In Search of the Roots of Christianity in the Catacombs of the Eternal City. Peeters, 2000. Key use: Catacombs as archaeological and social evidence, including burial practice, community identity, and the relationship between Jews, Christians, and Roman funerary culture.Fiocchi Nicolai, Vincenzo, Fabrizio Bisconti, and Danilo Mazzoleni. The Christian Catacombs of Rome: History, Decoration, Inscriptions. Schnell & Steiner, 2002. Key use: Detailed treatment of catacomb history, inscriptions, burial spaces, and visual programs.Brown, Peter. The Cult of the Saints: Its Rise and Function in Latin Christianity. University of Chicago Press, enlarged edition. Key use: Essential source for the holy dead, saint veneration, relics, tombs, pilgrimage, and the way corporeal remains became central to Christian religious life. The University of Chicago Press describes Brown's work as exploring how worship of saints and their corporeal remains became central to religious life in Western Europe.Brown, Peter. The Body and Society: Men, Women, and Sexual Renunciation in Early Christianity. Columbia University Press, 1988. Key use: Christian body theology, asceticism, holiness, discipline, and why the body is so central to late antique Christian imagination.Yasin, Ann Marie. Saints and Church Spaces in the Late Antique Mediterranean: Architecture, Cult, and Community. Cambridge University Press, 2009. Key use: Churches, saints, relics, cult practice, community identity, and how sacred spaces are organized around holy bodies and memory.Grabar, André. Martyrium: Recherches sur le culte des reliques et l'art chrétien antique. Key use: Classic work on martyr shrines, relic cult, and the relationship between architecture, art, and the holy dead.van Gennep, Arnold. The Rites of Passage. Key use: Separation, liminality, and incorporation. Crucial for baptism, catechumenate, thresholds, initiation, and the movement from outsider to insider.Turner, Victor. The Ritual Process: Structure and Anti-Structure. Key use: Liminality, threshold states, ritual transition, and communitas. Useful for baptism, catacomb descent, martyr devotion, and controlled access.Kilde, Jeanne Halgren. Sacred Power, Sacred Space: An Introduction to Christian Architecture and Worship. Oxford University Press, 2008. Key use: Christian buildings as arrangements of power, worship, divine presence, and embodied access. Useful for thresholds, sanctuary divisions, nave, altar, and congregation.Kieckhefer, Richard. Theology in Stone: Church Architecture from Byzantium to Berkeley. Oxford University Press, 2004. Key use: Church architecture as theology made spatial. Useful for altar, pulpit, nave, threshold, symbolic layout, and worship practice.Krautheimer, Richard. Early Christian and Byzantine Architecture. Yale University Press / Pelican History of Art. Key use: Classic architectural history for early Christian and Byzantine buildings, including the shift from pre-Constantinian spaces to basilicas, baptisteries, martyr shrines, and later monumental forms.Mathews, Thomas F. The Clash of Gods: A Reinterpretation of Early Christian Art. Princeton University Press, 1993. Key use: Early Christian imagery, visual conflict, ritual meaning, and the development of Christian art within the Roman world.Elsner, Jaś. Imperial Rome and Christian Triumph: The Art of the Roman Empire AD 100–450. Oxford University Press, 1998. Key use: Roman visual culture, Christian adaptation, imperial imagery, and the shift into Christian public art and architecture.MacMullen, Ramsay. Christianizing the Roman Empire: A.D. 100–400. Yale University Press, 1984. Key use: Social and historical context for Christian expansion before and after Constantine, useful for understanding how Christian space changes as Christianity grows.Mango, Cyril. Byzantine Architecture. Key use: LonAlso want to remind people about the website, if you're into reading we have tons of information by multiple contributors, and we got t-shirts up on the site if you're interested. Fun fact, the art is all based on the eyeball. A

Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons

Share a commentIf you want a definition of faith that is concrete enough to test, James gives one that is both simple and unsettling: care for orphans and widows in their distress, and keep yourself unstained by the world. We take that line seriously and ask what it means when compassion is not a sentimental moment but an ongoing, hands-on responsibility for people who can never repay you. Along the way, we connect the heartbeat of the gospel to a Father's heart, and to the kind of generosity that imitates God instead of trying to “pay God back.”We also zoom out into church history and the world James wrote into. In the first century, infanticide and child abandonment were normal in Greece and Rome, with infant girls often left to die or be exploited. Early Christians went out at night to rescue children and raise them, and that legacy echoes through stories like George Mueller's orphan work and the American orphan trains that helped shape the modern foster care system. These are not random history lessons; they show how Christian compassion can rebuild a culture's definition of human value.Then the conversation turns to courage and cost, including the Dutch efforts to save Jewish babies during Nazi raids and the Ten Boom safe houses, followed by a sobering look at how widows have been treated in places where the gospel is absent, including the history of widow burning in India and the pushback led by gospel-driven reformers. We finish with a direct, daily challenge from James: reject the world's value system, bridle self-promoting speech, and refuse to ignore needs that will never “pay off” in earthly terms.If this moved you or challenged you, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review. What's one practical act of compassion you think you should stop postponing?Get instant, biblically faithful answers to your Bible questions. https://www.wisdomonline.org/ask Learn more: https://www.wisdomonline.org/Support the show

Share a commentIf you want a definition of faith that is concrete enough to test, James gives one that is both simple and unsettling: care for orphans and widows in their distress, and keep yourself unstained by the world. We take that line seriously and ask what it means when compassion is not a sentimental moment but an ongoing, hands-on responsibility for people who can never repay you. Along the way, we connect the heartbeat of the gospel to a Father's heart, and to the kind of generosity that imitates God instead of trying to “pay God back.”We also zoom out into church history and the world James wrote into. In the first century, infanticide and child abandonment were normal in Greece and Rome, with infant girls often left to die or be exploited. Early Christians went out at night to rescue children and raise them, and that legacy echoes through stories like George Mueller's orphan work and the American orphan trains that helped shape the modern foster care system. These are not random history lessons; they show how Christian compassion can rebuild a culture's definition of human value.Then the conversation turns to courage and cost, including the Dutch efforts to save Jewish babies during Nazi raids and the Ten Boom safe houses, followed by a sobering look at how widows have been treated in places where the gospel is absent, including the history of widow burning in India and the pushback led by gospel-driven reformers. We finish with a direct, daily challenge from James: reject the world's value system, bridle self-promoting speech, and refuse to ignore needs that will never “pay off” in earthly terms.If this moved you or challenged you, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review. What's one practical act of compassion you think you should stop postponing?Get instant, biblically faithful answers to your Bible questions. https://www.wisdomonline.org/ask Learn more: https://www.wisdomonline.org/Support the show

Cardon Ellis and Luke Hansen dive deep into three powerful doctrines from the earliest Christian church that Joseph Smith restored—doctrines largely abandoned or reinterpreted by mainstream Christianity today.Using scriptures, early Church Fathers' writings, and the book Restoring the Ancient Church by Barry Robert Bickmore, they explore:The future coming of Elias (Elijah) as a forerunner before the Second ComingThe literal 1,000-year millennial reign of Christ on earthCreation ex materia (out of existing matter) vs. the later doctrine of creation ex nihilo (out of nothing)This episode shows how Joseph Smith aligned with ancient Christianity on these key points, often against later theological developments like Neoplatonism and the Trinity. Packed with scripture breakdowns, historical quotes, and thoughtful discussion—perfect for Latter-day Saints, students of church history, and anyone interested in the Restoration.#LatterDaySaints #JosephSmith #EarlyChristianity #Restoration #BookOfMormon #Millennium #Elias #CreationExMateria #WardRadio #LDS00:00 Intro & Setup: Three Early Doctrines Restored by Joseph Smith02:10 Why These Doctrines Matter & the Patrick Madrid Challenge03:45 Source: Restoring the Ancient Church by Barry Robert Bickmore05:20 Doctrine 1: The Coming of Elias / Elijah as Forerunner08:40 Biblical Foundations11:15 Early Church Fathers on a Future Coming of Elias14:50 Kirtland Temple Fulfillment & Passover Timing17:30 Doctrine 2: The Literal 1,000-Year Millennial Reign20:10 Early Beliefs vs. Later Spiritualized Interpretations23:45 Papias, Eusebius & the Shift Away from Literal Millennium27:30 Doctrine 3: Creation Ex Materia vs. Creation Ex Nihilo30:45 Historical Origins of Ex Nihilo & Gnostic/Platonic Influences34:20 Why Creation Ex Nihilo is Essential to the Trinity37:10 Joseph Smith's Revelations Aligning with Ancient Christianity39:40 Final ThoughtsJoin this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnmsAFGrFuGe0obW6tkEY6w/joinAmazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1AQLMTSMBM4DC?ref_=wl_shareVisit us for this and more at: WardRadio.comTo subscribe to "The Women of Ward Radio" Youtube Channel, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbu-wpRztV-8TYXClhUZhhwTo Subscribe to Cardon Ellis' Adventure Channel, please visit: http://www.youtube.com/@CardonEllisAdventuresThe following authors and/or sponsors are generously offering discounts on their gospel-related publication to Ward Radio listeners.⚡For free trial of Scripture Notes please visit the following link!: https://scripturenotes.com/?via=wardradio⚡For a discount on Tiny 3D Temples, Save 15% with code WARDRADIO at checkout or visit tiny3dtemples.com/wardradio⚡Family: A Rhyming Proclamation for Kids book visit the following linkhttps://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/family-a-rhyming-proclamation-for-kids . Use the code "Ward Radio" for 10% off. ⚡To Order Jonah's Book, “Lost Gems of Genesis” visit the following link and use coupon Code: WARDRADIO https://plainandpreciouspublishing.com/products/coming-soon-the-lost-gems-of-genesis-how-apocryphal-texts-prove-joseph-smith-fixed-the-bibleFor 10% off Plain and Precious Publishing Books, visit plainandpreciouspublishing.com and use Coupon Code: WARDRADIOFor a 5% discount on Go and Do Travel, visit goanddotravel.com and use the promo code WARDRADIO5#christian #mormon #exmormon #latter-daysaints #latterdaysaints #latterdays #bible #bookofmormon #archaeology #BYU #midnightmormons #jesus #jesuschrist #scriptures #sundayschool #biblestudy #christiancomedy #cardonellis #kwakuel #bradwitbeckTo support the channel:Venmo @WardRadio or visit: https://account.venmo.com/u/MidnightMormonsPaypal: paypal.me/@midnightmedia CashApp: $WardRadioFollow us at:Instagram: @cardonellis @kwakuel @braderico @boho.birdyFacebook: @WardRadioWorldwideTwitter: WardRadioShowTikTok: WardRadioWorldwide

Several hundred bishops came from regions including Asia Minor, the eastern Mediterranean, and parts of the Latin West where they formulated the Nicene Creed, which affirmed that the Son was “of the same substance” as the ...

This week we'll be studying Acts 28:16-31 under the theme “An Unfinished Story.” Here we learn that even in chains, Paul's story wasn't over...and neither is the mission of Jesus through his people.Series Summary: The Book of Acts is a companion volume to The Gospel of Luke. It tells the story of the early Christian Church. For 2000 years, Christian churches have often studied Acts in the weeks following Easter, learning what early Christians did after Jesus' death and resurrection, and contextualizing that lifestyle into modern times. We seek to do the same with our series, “O, Church Arise."Add St. Marcus as your church on the Church Center App!Fill out our online connection cardHow can we pray for you? If you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here.

"There is only one person in human history who died and came back." Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons

284 Intro Historical Theology: Why Church History MattersAfter the apostles died, the church did not disappear. It continued to preserve, defend, and pass down the truth once delivered to the saints. In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Pastor Jeff Cranston and Tiffany continue their historical theology series by introducing Clement of Rome, one of the earliest Apostolic Fathers. They explain why Clement matters, what his letter to the Corinthian church reveals about early Christian belief, and how his writings point believers back to Scripture, humility, unity, and justification by faith in Christ alone.00:55 What Is Historical Theology?Historical theology studies how Christian doctrine developed and was defended throughout church history.02:30 The Patristic PeriodAfter the death of the Apostle John, the church entered the patristic period, the era of the early church fathers.04:00 Who Were the Apostolic Fathers?The Apostolic Fathers include Clement of Rome, Ignatius of Antioch, Polycarp of Smyrna, Papias of Hierapolis, and several key early Christian writings, including The Didache, The Epistle of Barnabas, The Shepherd of Hermas, and The Epistle to Diognetus. 06:15 What Does Orthodoxy Mean?Orthodoxy means right belief, helping Christians distinguish true biblical doctrine from error.07:30 Preserving Apostolic TeachingAfter the apostles died, the church did not disappear. Early Christian leaders helped preserve and defend the teachings handed down to them.11:00 Who Was Clement of Rome?Clement of Rome was an early bishop who lived near the end of the first century and wrote an important letter to the church at Corinth.18:15 Justification by Faith in the Early ChurchClement clearly taught that salvation is not earned by human effort, but received by faith in Christ.20:30 What Clement Teaches Us TodayClement reminds believers to be shaped by Scripture, pursue unity, and trust in Christ alone for salvation.“ Studying historical theology should make us steadier. Clement reminds us that faithful Christians anchor themselves in scripture. We pursue humility.” – Pastor Jeff Cranston

In today's episode, Claire is joined by Tish Harrison Warrento discuss her brand new book, What Grows in Weary Lands: On Christian Resilience. Early Christians often grappled with a reality we rarely talk about in contemporary life: that God seems to abandon the soul at times, leaving us feeling as if we are alone and left to our own resources. These are times of futility, when work and relationships feel hard, when prayer feels unsatisfying, and we question whether our efforts are amounting to anything. For centuries, Warren notes, times of “aridity” were seen as necessary prerequisites for growth and maturity. Yet in our culture fixated on speed and optimization, we risk losing this deeper sense of the human journey and the resilience that comes with it.Writing for a moment when two-thirds of Americans are dissatisfied with their work, and a sense of languishing is widespread, Warren draws from both her own season of exhaustion and the rich well of Christian tradition— particularly that of the earliest Christian monks—to discover the habits and mindsets that anchor us in times of doubt, difficulty, and spiritual dryness. She offers hope to those who feel like life is overwhelming, taxing, and disorienting.What Grows in Weary Lands speaks to anyone longing for a life of depth in a distracted age. Warren helps us see that nothing is wasted—that even in desert seasons something good is growing, rooted in grace and reaching toward glory. Tish Harrison Warren is a writer and an Anglican priest. She is the author of several books, including Liturgy of the Ordinary, which won Christianity Today's 2018 Book of the Year, and Prayer in the Night, which won ChristianityToday's 2022 Book of the Year and the 2022 ECPA Christian Book of the Year. She formerly wrote a weekly newsletter for The New York Times, which focused on faith in public discourse and private life. She was also a columnist at Christianity Today. Her articles and essays have appeared in Comment Magazine, The Point Magazine, Religion News Service, and elsewhere. She currently serves as the C.S. Lewis Theological Writer-in-Residence for The Anglican Episcopal House of Studies at Baylor's George W. Truett Theological Seminary. She is a senior fellow with the Trinity Forum and an assisting priest at Immanuel Anglican Church. She lives in Austin, Texas, with her husband and three children.

We'll be studying Acts 14:1-7 under the theme “Stay Anyway.” We learn that sharing the Gospel about Jesus will bring about hardships and opposition. Division is often part of the impact that proclaiming the Good News has! Effectiveness in ministry doesn't mean absence of conflict. It is often where God deepens faith, strengthens his people, and advances his work.Series Summary: The Book of Acts is a companion volume to The Gospel of Luke. It tells the story of the early Christian Church. For 2000 years, Christian churches have often studied Acts in the weeks following Easter, learning what early Christians did after Jesus' death and resurrection, and contextualizing that lifestyle into modern times. We seek to do the same with our series, “O, Church Arise."Add St. Marcus as your church on the Church Center App!Fill out our online connection cardHow can we pray for you? If you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here.

"The gospel is not an invitation to perform better; it is an invitation to stop pretending." Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons

Reflection: * Which group or community do I belong to that meets together to pray and witness Jesus, both being salient features of a thriving community. If I do not belong to a group which does BOTH of these, then seek to align myself to a group like this - like the early followers of Jesus!

This week we'll be studying Acts 13:4-12 under the theme “Blinded by the Truth.” We learn that when the church speaks the truth of Jesus with Paul-like courage, and confronts falsehood head-on, the end result is both opening the eyes of some, while also exposing and disabling the darkness of others.Series Summary: The Book of Acts is a companion volume to The Gospel of Luke. It tells the story of the early Christian Church. For 2000 years, Christian churches have often studied Acts in the weeks following Easter, learning what early Christians did after Jesus' death and resurrection, and contextualizing that lifestyle into modern times. We seek to do the same with our series, “O, Church Arise."Add St. Marcus as your church on the Church Center App!Fill out our online connection cardHow can we pray for you? If you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here.

Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons

Today’s Topics: 1) Gospel – John 10:22-30 – The feast of the Dedication was taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around Him and said to Him, “How long are You going to keep us in suspense? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in My Father's Name testify to Me. But you do not believe, because you are not among My sheep. My sheep hear My Voice; I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of My Hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father's Hand. The Father and I are one.” Memorial of Saint Louis Mary de Montfort, Priest Memorial of Saint Peter Chanel, Priest and Martyr Saints Louis and Peter, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Steve Ray joins Terry to discuss the incredible faith of the Early Christians, many who gave their lives for belief in Jesus.  Do we have that faith?

Today’s Topics: 1) Gospel – John 10:22-30 – The feast of the Dedication was taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered around Him and said to Him, “How long are You going to keep us in suspense? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in My Father's Name testify to Me. But you do not believe, because you are not among My sheep. My sheep hear My Voice; I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of My Hand. My Father, Who has given them to Me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father's Hand. The Father and I are one.” Memorial of Saint Louis Mary de Montfort, Priest Memorial of Saint Peter Chanel, Priest and Martyr Saints Louis and Peter, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Steve Ray joins Terry to discuss the incredible faith of the Early Christians, many who gave their lives for belief in Jesus.  Do we have that faith?

This week we will be studying Acts 11:1-18 under the theme “Bigger Than Us.” The early Church was made aware that when God starts moving, he doesn't ask for our permission. He blows past our preconceived boundaries. This text shows a gospel that refuses to stay small, and how Jesus, as Savior of all, works in, but doesn't fit in, any man-made culture. Series Summary: The Book of Acts is a companion volume to The Gospel of Luke. It tells the story of the early Christian Church. For 2000 years, Christian churches have often studied Acts in the weeks following Easter, learning what early Christians did after Jesus' death and resurrection, and contextualizing that lifestyle into modern times. We seek to do the same with our series, “O, Church Arise."Add St. Marcus as your church on the Church Center App!Fill out our online connection cardHow can we pray for you? If you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here.

“God stands nearest when pressure is greatest.” Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons

Early Christians were no exception in ancient beliefs in ghosts. Jimmy Akin and Dom Bettinelli discuss reports of ghostly encounters in the ancient Church, what theologians thought of them, and how Jimmy would evaluate these cases today. The post Ancient Christian Ghosts appeared first on StarQuest Media.

Early Christians were no exception in ancient beliefs in ghosts. Jimmy Akin and Dom Bettinelli discuss reports of ghostly encounters in the ancient Church, what theologians thought of them, and how Jimmy would evaluate these cases today.

This week we'll be studying Acts 8:1-8 under the theme “Scattered, But Never Stopped.” Here we learn that scattered by persecution, yet propelled by purpose, the early Church discovered that what was meant to silence them actually multiplies their mission. When the gospel moves through ordinary people with both words and deeds, even the darkest moments can spark unexpected joy in entire cities.Series Summary: The Book of Acts is a companion volume to The Gospel of Luke. It tells the story of the early Christian Church. For 2000 years, Christian churches have often studied Acts in the weeks following Easter, learning what early Christians did after Jesus' death and resurrection, and contextualizing that lifestyle into modern times. We seek to do the same with our series, “O, Church Arise."Add St. Marcus as your church on the Church Center App!Fill out our online connection cardHow can we pray for you? If you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here.

“God is pursuing his people, even today. He is working to capture your attention.” Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons

What does it really mean to build a church that reflects the heart of God? Romans 12:9-13 gives us a blueprint that has nothing to do with buildings, budgets, or branding, and everything to do with the condition of our hearts. We're challenged to examine whether our love is genuine or hypocritical, whether we're truly hating evil while clinging to what is good. The early Roman Christians faced persecution for refusing to participate in the violent entertainment of the Colosseum, willing to die rather than compromise their convictions about the sanctity of human life. Their example forces us to ask uncomfortable questions about our own entertainment choices and cultural compromises. The passage moves outward from personal character to how we treat one another in the church, calling us to outdo each other in showing honor rather than seeking it for ourselves. We're reminded that discipleship isn't complicated—it's simply showing someone who doesn't know what we do how to do what we do. The triplet of rejoicing in hope, being patient in affliction, and being constant in prayer reminds us that God hears every prayer offered according to His will, even when we're crying out from our own dark caves like David did. The most comforting songs ever written came from the darkest places, teaching us that our afflictions may have purposes beyond what we can see.**SERMON NOTES – Romans 12:9–12 – “How to Build a Church, Part 1”**---### I. The Flow of Romans 12 - Chapters 1–11: Doctrine. - Chapter 12: Practice—radiating outward:  - v9 – Character (heart)  - vv10–13 – Church  - vv14–21 – Culture  - ch.13 – Civics ---### II. Triplet #1 – v9: Heart Posture **“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.”** 1. **Let love be genuine (without hypocrisy)**   - No fake “churchy” love (“I love them in the Lord” but actually resent them).   - Jesus and Judas: a kiss of betrayal as a picture of hypocritical love.   - God's love to us is genuine; ours toward others must reflect that.2. **Abhor what is evil**   - Love and hate are connected:    - Love my wife → hate what harms the marriage.    - Love truth → hate lies.   - Evil = what is anti-God; Scripture defines what God hates (e.g., Prov 6).   - Romans believers refused violent “entertainment” of the Coliseum; were persecuted for it.3. **Hold fast to what is good**   - “Koleo” – glue yourself to good; active pursuit, not just passive avoidance.   - Culture desensitizes (pumpkin/duck & frog/boiling water illustrations).   - Early Christians chose costly conviction over easy compromise.---### III. Triplet #2 – v10–11: Church Life **“Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”** - Honor = lead in preferring others, pushing them forward. - Model: leaders who serve (Ezek 34 – God rebukes shepherds who feed themselves). - Jesus hates “Nicolaitan” spirit: overbearing leaders/laity (Rev 2:6). - True leadership: elders serving meals, men of high status doing lowly tasks. - Discipleship = show others how to do what you do, then release them (Apollos & Priscilla/Aquila; Paul's attitude toward Apollos). **“Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.”** - Never lazy; work hard; serve enthusiastically. - “Sunday comes whether you're ready or not” – faithfulness in preparation. - Every “small” task (coffee, parking, kids' ministry) is a spiritual service when done unto the Lord. - Warning: don't serve in a controlling, joyless way that repels helpers.---### IV. Triplet #3 – v12: Suffering & Prayer **“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”** 1. **Rejoice in hope** – confidence in God's promises not yet seen (Heb 11:1). 2. **Patient in tribulation** – Bible assumes suffering, doesn't erase it.   - Roman believers faced lions and fires; ours may be different but real. 3. **Constant in prayer** – steady, honest pouring out of the heart (Psalms as model).   - Many Psalms (e.g., David in caves) birthed from deep affliction.   - Prodigal son: father doesn't follow into sin, but never stops praying and watching.---## PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS1. Identify one relationship where your “love” has been hypocritical; confess and seek a step toward genuine love. 2. Audit your media/entertainment: what are you being desensitized to? Choose one concrete change this week. 3. Look for one person in church to honor publicly or privately—email, text, or conversation that pushes them forward. 4. If you serve, invite someone to do it with you and intentionally show them how. Move from “worker” to “discipler.” 5. Name one ongoing affliction; commit to a simple daily prayer rhythm (e.g., morning & night) for it for 30 days. ---## DISCUSSION QUESTIONS1. Where are you most tempted to show “polite hypocrisy” instead of genuine love? 2. How do you practically distinguish between loving people and hating evil? 3. What forms of entertainment do you think most dull our hatred of evil today? 4. Who has honored or discipled you in the church, and how did it shape you? 5. Are you more prone to laziness or to over-controlling in service? Why? 6. What “cave” season have you walked through, and how did God meet you there? 7. What long-term prayer have you nearly given up on, and how might Romans 12:12 call you to persevere?

Weekend Edition for April 18-19, 2026 Show Notes: Germany / Switzerland - Study Tour  Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on YouTube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Dan van Voorhis SHOW TRANSCRIPTS are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (outerrimterritories.com).

Trying to cram some theology into 5 minutes or so. These brief treatments are intended only as a spur to further study on the part of the listener.Please consider donating to help keep this podcast going by going to buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief Also, if you enjoy these episodes, please give a five star rating and share the podcast with your friends and family

Where am I assuming instead of seeking truth? Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons

“New and improved” (Folc) es el debut de los neoyorquinos Ruby and the Clumsy Dollies. Un disco de cartuchos inmediatos que beben sin nostalgia del punk rock, la new wave y el filo y las melodías de los 60. Suenan nuevas canciones de Lemon Twigs, Dynamite Shakers o Zack Keim, Redd Kross en acústico o A.J. Fullerton versionando a Tom Waits. Y desde los hornos de Discos Mapaches nos llega una bonita reedición y trabajo arqueológico que nos descubre a la banda belga de los sesenta Early Christian.Playlist;RUBY and THE CLUMSY DOLLIES “On the deuce” (New and improved)RUBY and THE CLUMSY DOLLIES “Darling cowboy” (New and improved)RUBY and THE CLUMSY DOLLIES “Mad” (New and improved)THE LEMON TWIGS “2 or 3” (Look for your mind)RADIO DAYS “Bang bang”REDD KROSS “I’ll take you’re word for it (acoustic)” (Split)MINIBÚS INTERGALÀCTIC “Barqueta” (Moviment Oscil·lant Polinòmic y=1/x)EARLY CHRISTIAN “Automatic fly” (1969, reed 2026)EARLY CHRISTIAN “Fire” (1969, reed 2026)JESSE ROPER “Green eyed lady”A.J. FULLERTON and LAUREN FRIHAUF “I don’t wanna grow up”Versión y Original: TOM WAITS “I don’t wanna grow up” (Bone machine, 1992)BRAD MARINO “Lost without you” (Agent of chaos)DYNAMITE SHAKERS “Cinéma”ZACK KEIM “Weekend blues”COLE BERLINER “The black door” (The Black Door)Escuchar audio

In this episode of The Backstory on the Shroud of Turin, Guy Powell interviews researcher Larry Stalley. The discussion explores a powerful question. Is the Shroud of Turin hidden within the Bible?Stalley introduces the concept of the “discipline of the secret.” Early Christians protected sacred truths during persecution. This may explain why references to the Shroud appear veiled in Scripture.The episode dives into Old Testament typology. Stalley connects the Shroud to the Ark of the Covenant, manna, and priestly garments. These symbols reveal deeper meaning tied to Jesus Christ and the Resurrection.A major focus is tabernacle theology. The Shroud is presented as a “greater and more perfect tent.” This aligns with passages in Hebrews and offers new insight into the Resurrection narrative.The conversation also explores baptism and the Eucharist. These practices may reflect the transformation represented by the burial cloth. Baptism symbolizes death and rebirth. The Eucharist represents the body and blood of Christ.This episode blends theology, history, and faith. It challenges listeners to rethink the role of the Shroud of Turin. It also connects strongly with Guy Powell's book, The Only Witness.

We celebrate Easter from the perspective of the sages of the docetic version of Christianity. This leads to the recognition that the whole world is a holographic projection—none of us is really here. The Self transmits the holographic image of a body; and consciousness mistakenly identifies with that form, rather than with the Light and Intelligence projecting all forms in a motion picture epic of Divine Authorship. That epic is rendered into animation by the Goddess and destined to reach its climax with Revelation, Rapture, and Redemption.

Abstract: Easter should be a feast for all our senses. Early Christians recounted the events between Christ's death and Resurrection with joy, and much in their accounts is familiar to us. Doctrine and Covenants 138 describes and celebrates Christ's visit to the world of the spirits between his death and Resurrection. As this revelation becomes […] The post Easter and Doctrine and Covenants 138: Our Harrowing of Hell, Our Descensus Christi ad Inferos, Our Anastasis first appeared on The Interpreter Foundation.

The Book of Titus emphasizes that sound doctrine leads to sound living, urging believers to devote themselves to good works, which benefit both the church and the world. Christianity has historically influenced culture positively, impacting human rights, dignity, equality, science, medicine, arts, music, and education. Good works serve as a witness, model, sign of purity, devotion, and mark of salvation, taking place in the church, home, and world. Even atheist historian Tom Holland acknowledges that Western secular values are rooted in Christian theology and morality, attributing societal improvements to Jesus and Christianity.Christianity's impact includes the radical idea of every person bearing God's image and having equal worth, leading to modern human rights, sanctity of life, and protections for the vulnerable. Voices must be loud and persistent to protect these values, speaking out and influencing society. Pre-Christian societies lacked pity and mercy, but Christianity revolutionized Western ethics, emphasizing humility and sacrifice. The U.S. Declaration of Independence reflects the Christian idea that rights come from God, not humans. Christianity led to the abolition of slavery, end of gladiatorial games/infanticide, and transatlantic slave trade, with figures like William Wilberforce citing biblical equality.Christianity elevated women and marriage, rejecting the treatment of women as property and promoting mutual dignity. Florence Nightingale's faith-driven reforms gave women professional healthcare roles. Early Christians built institutions to minister to the marginalized, with 9/10 of the largest charities being faith-based. Saint Basil founded the Basilica, the first large-scale hospital complex, which became a model for Western hospitals. Medieval Christian scholars founded Europe's universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, Paris, and Bologna, to study God's rational creation. Harvard College was founded to advance learning and train Christian ministers.Christianity impacted the rise of modern science, with the Scientific Revolution dominated by devout Christians like Johannes Kepler, Isaac Newton, Michael Faraday, and Louis Pasteur. Christian themes inspired the greatest Western creative works, with artists like Michelangelo and composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Handel creating works that reflected their faith. Jesus has made a huge impact on culture, permeating everything since the resurrection. The modern calendar is based on Jesus' birth, and even secular thinkers like Ben Shapiro and Bill Maher agree on morality due to Western society's biblical history.Jesus points to internal morality, and He is the subject of more books than any other figure. Tom Holland notes that Westerners are steeped in Christian assumptions, with Jesus's sacrifice at the heart of the revolution. Sociologist Rodney Stark argues that the rise of the West was rooted in Christian theology and belief in a rational God. Believers are called to insist on good works, which are profitable for all mankind, and to extend the kingdom wherever God places them. The church needs correct theology and sound doctrine, putting their hand to the plow and glorifying God. Martin Luther's refusal to recant his beliefs demonstrates the importance of standing firm on the Word of God.#christianity #goodworks #socialimpact #faithandaction #culturalinfluences #biblicalvalues #ethicalliving #kingdombuilding #reformedtheology #servegod www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

In this special Easter episode of the Equip Podcast, Mark walks through the historical and biblical evidence for the resurrection of Jesus. He explores why the resurrection is not just a matter of faith, but a claim rooted in real events, eyewitness testimony, and early Christian conviction.Episode Highlights00:30 — Setting the context: Easter week and the importance of the resurrection00:59 — Why Christians revisit the evidence for the resurrection every year01:45 — Turning to 1 Corinthians 15 as a foundational text01:57 — The early creed: death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus03:13 — The resurrection as the center of the Christian message06:49 — Eyewitnesses to the resurrection of Jesus08:12 — The gospel accounts as historical sources10:12 — The resurrection as a real historical event, not just a spiritual idea12:24 — Early Christian belief grounded in real testimony14:18 — The reliability of the New Testament documents16:17 — The uniqueness of the resurrection story20:44 — Could the resurrection have been made up?22:52 — Why the resurrection still matters todayResourcesCornerstone Sermons: Listen OnlineThe Reason for God by Tim KellerAsk Mark a Question!Suggest a topic or question for Mark to discuss on a future episode of the Equip Podcast!

On this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we explore how archaeology, missiology, and the text of Luke-Acts converge to suggest that Theophilus may have been closer to the story than we've ever imagined. Drawing from the archaeological record—from inscriptions in the prytaneion to the civic roles of the Kouretes and temple officials—we explore a compelling possibility: Theophilus was a high-ranking Ephesian, perhaps even a guardian of Artemis, who encountered the message of Jesus in a way that required not just belief… but a complete reordering of allegiance. Have we discovered the identity of Theophilus? Find out on this Ephesiology Podcast. Keywords: Theophilus Luke Acts identity, Ephesos archaeology Christianity, Luke-Acts historical context, Early Christian movement Asia Minor, Artemis cult Ephesus, Prytaneion inscriptions Theophilos, Missiological archaeology, Kouretes Artemis Ephesus, Luke nativity hymns Artemis parallel, Roman elite conversion Christianity, Gospel contextualization vs missiology, Gods Emperors Philosophers New Movement, Archaeology and Bible interpretation, First century Ephesus Christianity Key Takeaways Theophilus was likely a real, high-status individual, not a symbolic or anonymous figure Luke's use of “most excellent” (kratiste) indicates elite social standing within Greco-Roman society Archaeological evidence from Ephesus (inscriptions and coinage) points to identifiable Theophiluses in the first century Theophilus may have held significant civic and religious roles such as Kouretes, temple administrator (neopoi), or priest of Artemis This places Theophilus at the center of Ephesian religious, political, and social life Luke's narrative aligns closely with the known historical and civic realities of the Roman world Luke employs missiological parallelisms to connect Jesus' story with Theophilus's cultural and religious framework Examples include contrasts between Jesus and Artemis (savior, nativity, temple practices, hymns) Conversion to Jesus would have required a radical shift in allegiance, involving social, economic, and religious consequences Theophilus represents a case of “religious switching” among the elite Luke models careful, precise, and contextually meaningful communication rather than shallow proclamation His goal is certainty about Jesus, not merely persuasion or rapid conversion Effective mission involves both deep theological clarity and cultural intelligibility Engagement with influential leaders is essential for long-term movement sustainability Modern church planting movements must balance rapid expansion with depth of discipleship Luke prioritizes the depth and integrity of the message over pragmatic efficiencyThe religious ecosystem of Pergamon was deeply layered—healing cults, imperial worship, and traditional deities all competed for allegiance. Connect With Us Follow Ephesiology: Website | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Follow Andrew Johnson  @thediscfan.bsky.social If this episode encouraged you, please leave a review and share it with others exploring missional living in post-Christian contexts. Thanks for doing theology in community with us today! If you have a question or topic that you'd like to hear addressed on the Ephesiology Podcast, just send it to Andrew at thediscfan@gmail.com. Donate Find the podcast on your favorite podcast app Just search for “Ephesiology” Our Podcasters Michael CooperProfessor | Missiologist | AuthorMichael is the missiologist in residence with East West where he focuses on equipping and empowering church leaders in evangelism, discipleship, leadership, and catalyzing church planting movements in the most difficult to reach places on the planet. He is the author of Ephesiology: The Study of the Ephesian Movement as well as many other books and academic articles. He has lectured at universities around the world and serves as affiliate faculty at Kairos University where he facilitates the degree programs in partnership with Ephesiology Master Classes.Andrew JohnsonMinistry Lead, West Village ChurchAndrew is a proud husband, father and pastor who desires all to know the one true King. He is honored to serve at West Village Church in Victoria, BC. Previously, he's ministered in Houston, Chicago, Indy, Flagstaff and Tempe in a variety of church contexts. Andrew has a BA in Christian Ministry from Trinity International University and an MA from Phoenix Seminary. He is currently a Doctor of Ministry student at Kairos University and is the co-host of the Ephesiology Podcast. When not at work, he's an avid disc golfing, vinyl playing, Spider-Man following/collecting fellow. Go Pacers. Do you enjoy the Ephesiology Podcast? Pick up Dr. Cooper’s latest book Religions, politics, and education shaped the cultural world of Asia Minor where a new faith emerged that would change history. Gods, Emperors, Philosophers, and a New Movement uncovers how the earliest Christians navigated—and often disrupted and adapted—the dominant forces of their age. Drawing on decades of research, fieldwork, and teaching, Michael T. Cooper takes readers beneath the surface of Ephesos, Smyrna, Pergamon, and other cities to reveal how temples, inscriptions, and civic spaces illuminate the missionary impulse of the first Christians. Far from being silent, the archaeological record testifies to their resilience, creativity, and bold proclamation of the gospel in a world saturated with competing loyalties. This is more than history. By examining how the early church encountered powerful religious traditions, political ideologies, and systems of education, today's missionaries and church leaders gain fresh vision for gospel engagement in their own pluralistic and contested contexts. The dynamics that shaped mission in the first centuries—identity, power, worldview, and cultural disruption—remain central to how the good news advances today. This book is an invitation to rediscover the mission of God in the archaeological record and to discern its enduring relevance for faithful witness in the twenty-first century. Buy on Amazon Partner with the Pod The Ephesiology Podcast comes to you from a desire to engage in community conversations about the intersection of theology and culture. We do not believe such dialogue should come with a cost so the podcast will always be free.  However, if you've benefited from the Ephesiology Podcast, would you consider a nominal $5 per month donation? All proceeds from the podcast go toward helping bring needed theological education to the majority world through our Ephesiology Master Class initiative to end a theological famine. We'd be honored to partner with you to continue providing solid biblical, theological, and missiological content for listeners around the world. Donate Empowering Future Church Leaders Imagine a world where passionate, equipped Christian leaders spread God's Word in areas with the greatest need—leaders grounded in both deep theology and practical ministry skills, trained to make a lasting impact in their communities. Through your support, this vision can become a reality for students from countries like Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Nepal, and India who are eager to teach and multiply disciple-makers in their own regions. Learn More Ephesiology: A Study of the Ephesian Movement If you want to understand principles for the growth of Christianity in the first century, the place to begin is the city of Ephesus. In this winsome study, Ephesiology offers readers a comprehensive view of the empowering work of the Holy Spirit in the most significant city of the New Testament, and compels us to ask the question: how can we effectively connect Christ to our culture?  “Masterfully handling the book of Ephesians and using its content as a definitive guide, Michael Cooper lays a theologically strong foundation that is both corrective and directive to disciple making movements.  The principles he gleans from the book of Ephesians and related texts, help to ensure the on-going multiplication and maturation of a movement. Because these are supra-cultural principles, they are applicable anywhere in the world.” Marvin J. Newell, Staff Missiologist, Missio Nexus, Author of Crossing Cultures in Scripture Buy This Now! Educating to Shift the Tracks of History To shift the tracks of history requires leaders who are equipped to critically assess and engage the contours of contemporary culture. As a new initiative in collaboration with the Movement Leaders Collective, Kairos University, and Ephesiology, we deliver just-in-time theological education focused on issues important to you, mxAcademy is designed as the theological and missiological foundation to unlock your potential as a movement leader and catalytic thinker. mxAcademy is a dynamic and innovative educational experience rooted in mDNA.We dream of a church fully equipped, fully mature, fully mobilized, and fully alive. A church that lives and breathes the Good News of Jesus! Learn More Join a Community Conversation at Ephesiology Master Classes Areopagus Symposium Taking its inspiration from the historical and philosophical legacy of Athens, Greece, the Areopagus Symposium focuses on intellectual and philosophical topics related to Christology, missiology, and ecclesiology. We invite scholars, theologians, and practitioners from diverse backgrounds to engage in a profound exploration of the theological landscape at the intersection of these vital disciplines. Sign up for an Ephesiology Master Classes account and gain free access to the Areopagus Symposium. Check it out! The Ephesiology Podcast and Ephesiology Master Classes are ministries of TELOS.GO, a registered 501c3 non-profit agency committed to imaginatively missional ways of engageing culture, church planting, and theological education. Your donation to the podcast is tax deductible.

Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons

"Obedience is not only personal faithfulness but public example." Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons

Erkki Koskenniemi, author, “Love, Marriage and Family: Learning from the Early Christians” Love, Marriage and Family: Learning from the Early ChristiansThe post Christian Sexual Ethics in the Greco-Roman World – Pr. Erkki Koskenniemi, 3/4/26 (0632) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Was America founded as a “new Israel”? And if so, what happens when biblical conquest narratives are used to justify colonization, displacement, and violence? In this episode of the Thinking Christian Podcast, Dr. James Spencer speaks with Dr. Daniel Hawk, professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Ashland Theological Seminary and author of Undoing Manifest Destiny: Settler America, Christian Colonists, and the Pursuit of Justice, about how Christian theology became entangled with the American settler story—and why that story now needs to be reexamined. Drawing on decades of Old Testament scholarship, especially his work on the Book of Joshua, Daniel Hawk explains how biblical narratives meant to form Israel’s identity were gradually transformed into templates for empire in the American imagination. Early Christian colonists interpreted their arrival in the New World through conquest theology—believing God had given them the land and authorized the dispossession of Indigenous peoples. Over time, this reading hardened into a powerful civil religion, blending Christian language with national mythology. James and Daniel explore how Manifest Destiny functioned as a theological story—one that framed American expansion as divinely sanctioned while masking injustice behind a “myth of innocence.” They discuss how the Exodus and conquest narratives were selectively used to legitimize political freedom and territorial expansion, while conveniently excluding Scripture’s deep moral critique of power, violence, and covenant unfaithfulness. The conversation also addresses the enduring effects of settler colonialism—not merely as a historical event, but as a set of social, economic, and cultural structures that continue shaping American life. Daniel argues that unresolved colonial sin damages everyone: Indigenous communities who bear the weight of dispossession and trauma, and white Christians whose imaginations have been warped by unexamined dominance and control. Rather than assigning blame, Hawk calls Christians to a posture of discipleship, humility, and repentance. Undoing the settler narrative begins with learning local histories, listening to Indigenous voices, and allowing uncomfortable truths to challenge long-held assumptions. Healing, he suggests, requires telling the whole story—without mythologizing the past or silencing pain. James and Daniel also reflect on the role of globalization, modern capitalism, and environmental exploitation as ongoing echoes of colonial logic, as well as Daniel’s work with the First Nations Version Bible translation project—an effort to hear Scripture through Indigenous linguistic and cultural frameworks. This episode invites Christians to ask hard questions: How should Scripture shape our understanding of land, power, and justice? What does repentance look like at a communal level? And how might the church become an agent of reconciliation rather than a guardian of national mythology? Topics include: The Book of Joshua and Christian identity Manifest Destiny as civil religion How biblical narratives were misused to justify colonization Settler colonialism vs. other forms of empire The “myth of innocence” in American history Structural sin and enduring injustice Listening to Indigenous voices and histories Discipleship, repentance, and reconciliation Christianity beyond nationalism You can get Undoing Manifest Destiny: Settler America, Christian Colonists, and the Pursuit of Justice at ivpress.com (use code IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount) Subscribe to our YouTube channel

"Sin is simply the fruit of idolatry" Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons

Monks and money don't seem to go together—but maybe they should. Early Christian monastics developed a biblical approach to possessions that offered freedom from fear and created space for generosity. Their example continues to resonate with believers navigating modern financial pressures.Dr. Shane Enete, Chair of the Finance Department at Biola University, joins the show today to help us explore what he calls “monk finances,” drawing on early Christian history to uncover insights that remain strikingly relevant today.Why Monks and Finances Feel Like OppositesFor many people, the idea of monks and money in the same sentence feels contradictory. That perception has historical roots.In the early centuries of the church, some believers reacted to growing spiritual complacency by withdrawing from society. These early monks sought lives of radical devotion and discipline. In extreme cases, they rejected material possessions entirely, viewing the physical world—and even the body itself—as spiritually dangerous.But this wasn't the final word on monastic life.Leaders like St. Anthony and St. Benedict helped reshape the movement. They recognized that God created the material world before the fall; therefore, possessions, work, and even money could be used for His glory. Instead of rejecting material things, they began developing thoughtful, disciplined ways to steward them.Out of that shift came a surprisingly rich theology of money.Recovering a Biblical View of PossessionsAs monastic communities formed, they began to rethink how Christians should live with resources.Rather than treating money as evil, they saw it as necessary for life—but not as a source of identity or security. Their approach emphasized moderation, equality, and shared responsibility.Their guiding principle was simple: Meet your needs, then help meet the needs of others.Money became a tool for self-sufficiency that led to hospitality, not a means of achieving independence from God. This perspective echoed the Apostle Paul's teaching to the early church, especially in communities wrestling with wealth and inequality.In many ways, the monks' worldview stands in contrast to modern financial culture. Where today's systems often prioritize accumulation and long-term personal security, the monastic tradition emphasized dependence on God and care for neighbor.Economic Sufficiency vs. Economic SecurityOne of the most striking insights from monastic life is the distinction between economic sufficiency and economic security.The monks worked hard. They cultivated gardens, produced goods, and provided for themselves. But they intentionally stopped short of building wealth for personal protection. Their goal was sufficiency—having enough to live and to share.A well-known story about St. Anthony illustrates this progression. After initially living in isolation, he began growing food to avoid burdening others. Eventually, he expanded his efforts to feed visitors and care for those who came seeking wisdom. His work produced enough for his needs and created margin for generosity. That pattern shaped monastic communities:Work diligentlyMeet basic needsCreate marginPractice hospitalityThey believed the danger came when financial planning shifted from provision to self-protection—when wealth began to replace trust in God.Guarding the Heart from the Love of MoneyMonks viewed wealth with a sober realism. They saw it as useful but spiritually risky.Money, they believed, has a way of whispering false assurances: “You're safe. You're secure. You don't need God.”To guard against this, monastic communities developed “rules of living”—structured rhythms that shaped how they worked, spent, and shared. These practices served as guardrails, protecting their hearts from drifting into consumption and self-reliance.The goal wasn't deprivation. It was clarity. They wanted money to remain a servant, never a master.The Power of an “Economy of Excess”One of the most compelling ideas to emerge from monastic life is what might be called an “economy of excess.”In many monasteries, individuals were trained not to consume everything they were given. Instead, they intentionally left a portion unused—placing it at the center of the table for others.Imagine a community of dozens of people, each holding back a small amount. The result was abundance. Tables overflowed, and anyone in need could be cared for.This practice created margin without requiring wealth.It also mirrors biblical principles found throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, landowners were instructed not to harvest their fields to the edges so the poor could gather what remained. The design was intentional: leave space for others, and generosity becomes woven into everyday life.When consumption stops short of the limit, community flourishes.Freedom from Financial AnxietyThe monks' approach offers a powerful corrective to modern financial anxiety.Today's culture often promotes endless striving—more income, more savings, more security. Yet the pursuit rarely ends. Wants expand, expectations rise, and contentment slips further away.Monastic wisdom points in another direction: simplify, define “enough,” and trust God with the rest.There is a surprising freedom in that posture. When life is not driven by maximizing consumption, gratitude grows. When security is not tied solely to accounts and assets, dependence on God deepens.Their example reminds us that peace is not found in having everything, but in needing less and sharing more.What We Can Learn TodayThe monks did not reject money. They reoriented it. They used resources to:Depend on GodCare for their communitiesPractice hospitalityServe the poorTheir lives challenge modern assumptions about success, security, and sufficiency. They invite believers to examine not just how money is used, but what role it plays in shaping the heart.Perhaps their most enduring lesson is this: Financial wisdom is not measured by accumulation, but by alignment—with God, with others, and with the purposes of His Kingdom.Ancient as it may seem, that vision speaks directly to our moment.———————————————————————————————————————Dr. Shane Enete's full article, “Monk Finances: The Economic Brilliance of Early Christian Monks,” appears in the latest issue of Faithful Steward magazine. When you become a FaithFi Partner with a monthly gift of $35 (or $400 annually), you'll receive Faithful Steward magazine and other exclusive resources to help you grow as a faithful steward. Visit FaithFi.com/Partner to learn more.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm working with a new financial advisor who's recommending an Allianz Index Advantage Plus annuity. He says it offers downside protection, no fees to us, and growth potential with gains that can be locked in several times a year. I'm not familiar with this—what should I know?My mom, my sister, and I all own a home together. When my mom passes away, will her share automatically be divided between us, or does something else happen legally?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Monk Finances: The Economic Brilliance of Early Christian Monks - Article by Dr. Shane Enete - Faithful Steward: Issue 4)Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. 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Monks and money don’t seem to go together, but maybe they should. Early Christian monks had a biblical approach to possessions that offered freedom from fear and room for generosity. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Dr. Shane Enete joins Rob West to explain why the wisdom of the monks matters for believers today. Then, it’s on to your calls. That’s Faith and Finance Live . . . biblical wisdom for your financial decisions. That’s weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The power of God is not accessed through religious performance, but through relationship with Christ—and when that relationship is real, it produces visible and costly transformation. Jesus declared that his disciples would be his witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Early Christians lived out this proclamation in powerful and palpable ways. Today we struggle to witness to those close to us, let alone to those at the ends of the earth. This series offers a glimpse into ways early Christians witnessed. Impacted? Let us know: Creekside.Me/Respond Miss a sermon in this series? Watch them all at Creekside.me/sermons