Podcasts about Emmaus

RSM evangelist Tom Weaver preaches from Luke 24:13–35, retelling the Emmaus Road encounter. He emphasizes how Jesus walks with us in disappointment, opens Scripture to our hearts, and is ultimately revealed in the breaking of bread—calling listeners to daily intimacy with Christ and revival in their lives.

In this episode of Father & Dad, join Fr. Steven and Dad as they unpack the spiritual richness of their recent pilgrimage to MaryTown, a sacred pause that goes beyond Sunday Mass and breathes life into everyday faith. Discover how stepping out of routine can open your heart to deeper communion with the Lord.Then they recount the highlights of the Emmaus Conference, a vibrant missionary discipleship gathering for the Diocese of Gary. From stirring keynote talks to meaningful fellowship, hear why this event continues to ignite a fire for mission and community across the region.Want to be part of the next Emmaus Conference? Buy your tickets here. (https://dioceseofgary.jotform.com/252044460687156)Finally, Fr. Steven and Dad share their thoughts on Triumph of the Heart, the new film celebrating the heroic life of St. Maximilian Kolbe. Dive into how this inspiring story echoes the values of courage, service, and sacrificial love that define a faith lived deeply.

Dr. Paul Gibson | Luke 24:13-16If Jesus had a playlist, He would listen to country music. Why? Country music tells stories, and Jesus was a storyteller. How did Jesus respond to the desperation and confusion of the two individuals on the Road to Emmaus? He told His Story from the Old Testament through the Cross. People will be encouraged to reflect on how the story of the Cross affects their lives.

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: https://www.lvbaptist.org/wfmz-program/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Today we completed reading the Gospel of Mark. One needs to compare all 4 Gospels to get a full picture of events after Christ rose from the dead. Such was the awesome sight of Christ's horrible death on the cross, whether seen from nearby or from afar, that his followers could not begin to imagine he could rise from the dead again – as had Lazarus:  the one who had the power to raise others was dead himself.Mary Magdalene, according to Mark, was the first one that Jesus appeared to (ch. 16 v.9) which is parallel with the detailed account in John's gospel (ch,20 v.11-18) .  In Mark we read “she went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept.  But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it.” [v.10,11]The next 2 verses are a summary of what is recorded in Luke 24 v.13-33 of the 2 disciples to whom, an unrecognised Jesus talked on the road to Emmaus – and made their “hearts burn” as he opened to them the meaning of Scripture – obviously prophecies, now fulfilled in recent events – then followed their astonished recognition of him as they “brake bread” – what a shock when they saw his hands!Mark says, “they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them”.  [v.14] Jesus appears and tells them to go into all the world and proclaim the gospel …” [v.15] which is repeated as he is about to ascend to heaven before their astonished gaze. (Acts 1 v.8,9) followed by the challenging words of the angels “This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven will come in the same way as you saw him go …”Looking at Mark again, he stresses  the final commission of Jesus', “”Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel …” [v.15] and the commission to do that is now at last just about completed.  But is enough stress being put upon what the Gospel actually is?  Paul, in writing to the Galatians expresses his astonishment that already some were “turning to a different gospel” [1 v.7] and makes the point “that God … preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham …” [ch.3 v.8] of the blessing to come on the nations. Christ warned his hearers, “there will be weeping … when you see Abraham … in the kingdom of God, but you yourselves cast out.” [Luke 13 v.28]  Let us believe the original gospel.Returning to Mark – he quotes one of the final points of Jesus that was an essential part of the preaching; “Whoever believes and is baptised will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” [v.16] Everyone must face the question, “Do you believe what Jesus actually taught?'  Sadly, very few are saying ‘Yes' today.

The 16th chapter of 1 Kings starts with a prophecy from the seer, Jehu the son of Hanani, to bring judgment on Baasha as he copied the ways of Jeroboam. We will note that every monarch from the north was evil. The southern kingdom slid ever downward, but there were times of spiritual rebounding due to some of the great reformers. Elah's evil reign of 2 years ended by assassination at the hands of his servant Zimri. That usurpation was terminated after seven days by Omri. A brief civil war followed against Tibni until Omri prevailed. Omri has the horrible distinguishing feature of committing evil greater than any before him. Omri ruled for twelve years- the last six from the capital of Samaria, which he founded. He was followed by Ahab, whose wicked rule of 22 years was characterised by Baal worship; introduced by his ignominious and ruthless wife, Jezebel. In Ahab's reign there was an attempt to rebuild Jericho in defiance of the divine pronouncement against that city. The result of this rebellion was a double tragedy in the loss of two sons.In the 42nd chapter of Jeremiah we are told that the prophet would pray for them not to experience the dire retribution of Nebuchadnezzar and warning them not to go into Egypt. However, the rebel captains ignored the warning, and took Jeremiah and the nation's remnants as hostages to Egypt. There they were to experience the perils of the sword and famine. In the record of Mark 16 we are told that the three women were at the tomb for the start of the first day of the week (Sunday). But in Jewish reckoning this commenced at 6pm on the Saturday evening. An amazing sight confronted them - a young man, clearly an angel, sitting on the massive stone that had been rolled from the sepulchre's entrance. They were told by the angel that the Lord they sought had risen, and would meet with them in Galilee. How significant was that Jesus first appearance was to Mary Magdalene, whom he had healed of severe mental illness. It was as if "where sin had abounded grace did super-abound": Romans 5 verse 20. She typified the bride of Christ. Then followed an appearance to two others on the way to Emmaus as Luke 24 described. The chapter concludes with the great commission to take the Gospel to all the world. Jesus said the message would be supported by accompanying signs. This was applicable to the Apostolic Age. https://christadelphianvideo.org/christadelphian-daily-readings/

Many people get stuck in discernment because fear can disguise itself as prudence. In this episode, Catholic therapist Adam Cross is joined by Emmaus Townsend to explore how faith and therapy together can bring clarity and peace when choosing a vocation. Drawing from Catholic tradition and clinical insight, they share practical ways to hear God, calm anxiety, and move forward with confidence. Topics covered: Fear vs prudence, how anxiety can sound holy and how to test the fruit, peace or pressure. Consolation and desolation, simple checks and common mistakes in discernment. Scrupulosity and overchecking, why they derail decisions and what to do instead. Discernment rhythms, prayer, silence, Scripture, sacraments, and spiritual direction. When to wait and when to act, practical steps to decide with peace. Vocations in real life, marriage, priesthood, religious life, and single life. Listening to your body and nervous system to steady worry and make a clear choice. Tune in for a hopeful conversation on faith, psychology, and the path from paralysis to peace in vocation decisions. Have questions? Visit my website: adamcrossmft.com Adam Cross LMFT #116623

Sunday 17, 2025

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Luke 24:13-34 - In this message, Pastor Ken emphasizes that the ultimate Bible study happens when Jesus Himself leads us through Scripture—as He did for the two disciples on the road to Emmaus—bringing clarity, conviction, and joy.

* You can get the sermon note sheet at: https://family-bible-church.org/2025Messages/25Aug17.pdf * Your "testimony" is a declaration of your experience. This testimony can include what you experience in the physical, emotional, and spiritual realms. It is not only what you experienced physically through your sense - sight, sound, smell, taste and touch - but, also what you felt internally, what you thought, and what things you believe were being brought to you from an external source. This is your testimony. People may question it, deny it, ridicule it, ... or believe it. But regardless, it is what YOU experienced. * Today, we are going to talk about the testimonies - the experiences - of two separate groups of people: the women at the tomb and the disciples on the road to Emmaus. Both groups experienced the results of Christ being risen from the dead. Both groups had different experiences which corroborated each others testimony. * Jesus, who had been crucified three days prior - was Risen! * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on August 17, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Divine heartburn- Jesus walked with two disciples on the road to Emmaus after his resurrection. Somehow, the disciples had no clue it was Jesus they were speaking with. Jesus is always with us, but we can't feel His presence sometimes. Why is that?

Thursday August07JoyfulHearts Sharing His GospelLuke 24:48-5348And you are witnesses of these things. 49 Behold, I send the Promise of MyFather upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued withpower from on high." 50 And He led them out as far as Bethany, andHe lifted up His hands and blessed them. 51 Now it came to pass, while Heblessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven. 52 Andthey worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53 andwere continually in the temple praising and blessing God. Amen.Aswe look at the last verses of Luke 24, we remember that after the crucifixionof Christ, the disciples faced disappointment, discouragement, and all thatcomes with it. The women went to the tomb with perplexed hearts,expecting a sealed tomb. Today, many in our Christian community love the Lordand live for Him, like these women, but get perplexed trying to figure it allout. What is happening? Where is His body? He shows them the open tomb and evengives His first appearance to Mary Magdalene.  Then,we have the two disciples on the road to Emmaus with discouraged hearts,thinking Jesus was going to set up His kingdom. Many believers today arediscouraged because things aren't turning out as expected. Jesus opens theireyes to see Him. In the upper room, the disciples have troubled hearts,afraid and wondering what is going on. Jesus opens their understanding to theScriptures, explaining all things concerning His death, burial, andresurrection, beginning with Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms. Andwhat happens next? We find out in verse 52.  They have joyful hearts and Jesus nowopens their lips to share the Good News of His resurrection. My friend, whenyou know there's an empty tomb, keep your eyes on Jesus Christ, and realize Heis there with you, and He opens your understanding to all the Scriptures, youwill experience a joyful heart and be willing to open your lips too! Luke24:50-52 should be compared with Mark 16:19-20 and Acts 1:9-12. Think of whatit meant to Him to return to heaven and sit on the throne of glory! (John 17:5,11) His ascension is proof that He has conquered every enemy and that He reignssupremely "far above all" (Eph. 1:18-23). Inheaven today, our Lord ministers as our High Priest (Heb. 7:25) and ourAdvocate (1 John 2:1). As High Priest, He gives us the grace we need to facetesting and temptation (Heb. 4:14-16); and if we fail, as Advocate He forgivesand restores us when we confess our sins (1 John 1:6-10). As the glorified Headof the church, Jesus Christ is equipping His people to live for Him and serveHim in this present world (Eph. 4:7-16; Heb. 13:20-21). Through the Word of Godand prayer, He is ministering to us by His Spirit and making us more likeHimself. Ilove this book. It started with Zacharias in the temple and the angelsappearing to shepherds, proclaiming, a message “of great joy whichshall be to all people." Now the book ends with these disciples fullof great joy. Jesus opens their lips, and they go everywhere worshiping,praising, and telling the nations that Jesus Christ is alive. He is risen, andyou can trust Him today to be your Lord and Savior. It will change everything,and your perplexed, troubled, discouraged hearts will become joyful heartsliving for eternity.  That'swhat the Great Commission is all about. Over the next couple of days we will betalking about how you can also participate in fulfilling the Great Commission. Godbless!

Thursday with Tabitha 9. Obadiah by Tabitha Smith This week we've reached the little book of Obadiah. He was the most minor of the minor prophets, in that his book is the shortest! In fact, it's the shortest book in the whole of the Old Testament with just one chapter, containing 21 verses. ~ Obadiah means “one who serves Yahweh”. We're not told anything else about the prophet himself. In the course of the prophecy, the fall of Jerusalem (which happened in 586 BC) is referred to as a past event and the fall of Edom (which happened in 553 BC) as a future event. So it is likely that the book was written between these events. ~ To understand the background to Obadiah, we need to head back to Genesis, to the account of the brothers Jacob and Esau. These two non-identical twins were born to Isaac and Rebekah. Even from their birth, they showed signs of not exactly getting along. Esau was born first, all red and hairy, and Jacob followed after him, grasping his heel. They grew up to be very different. Esau was a skilled hunter, favoured by his father, whilst Joseph was an introverted man who preferred to stay with his mother in the proximity of the family tents. ~ Jacob famously tricked the hungry Esau out of his birth rite and later stole his father's blessing by disguising himself as his older brother and fooling the elderly, blind Isaac. So Esau swore revenge on his brother and fully intended to kill him. Rebekah helped Jacob to escape and he fled to the territory of his uncle Laban. There he met and married his wives, Leah and Rachel. Esau, who was also called Edom, married several wives, including an Ishmaelite woman (that is, a descendent of Abraham's first son by the slave girl Hagar). ~ Jacob and Esau did meet again some years later, and much to Jacob's relief and surprise, Esau didn't kill him on the spot but appeared to have forgiven him. Jacob still didn't trust him though, and he took his family off in a different direction to avoid having to be in close proximity to his brother's family. Jacob had 12 sons by his two wives and their two servants. His 4th son, one of Leah's children, was Judah, and from his line the tribe of Judah came into existence. From Esau's line came the tribe of the Edomites. The Edomites lived in the hill country of Seir. This was a mountainous region about 1500m above sea level. Their territory appeared to be impenetrable and they felt quite safe in their high dwellings. In Numbers 20 we read that after the Exodus from Egypt, the Israelites asked the Edomites for permission to pass through their territory along the King's Highway. The Edomites refused, adding to the tensions between these two tribes. However, in Deuteronomy 23:7-8, God commanded the Israelites that they should not hate an Edomite in view of the brotherly connection between the two tribes. ~ Edom was defeated by king Saul in the 11th century BC and subdued again by king David 40 years later. Edom became a vassal state of Israel but it was never completely de-stroyed. ~ Fast forward to the time of Obadiah, and we find that the tribe of Judah, the sole remnant of the original 12 tribes of Israel, had been conquered and the capital city of Jerusalem had fallen to the Babylonians. During the conquest of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar, some of the Judeans had tried to escape from the city and flee into the surrounding coun-tryside. The Edomites, rather than helping their neighbours and brothers in the time of their distress, sided with the foreign invaders and handed over the fleeing Israelites to the Babylonians. Psalm 137:7 recalls how the Edomites gloated over the destruction of Jeru-salem: Remember, O LORD, against the Edomites the day of Jerusalem, how they said, “Lay it bare, lay it bare, down to its foundations!” ~ The main theme of Obadiah is the judgement of the Edomites for the way they betrayed the people of Judah during the Babylonian invasion. ~ The first 15 verses of the book are addressed to the people of Edom. God scorns the pride and arrogance of the Edomites, who say to themselves, “who will bring me down to the ground?” (v3), referring to their perceived safety in their high mountain region. But God will bring them down and they will be punished for their evil deeds. The prophet mixes both past tense and future tense verbs when describing Edom's fate. This is a technique that can be found in prophetic writing, when future events are sometimes described as if they had already happened. ~ God's message through Obadiah is that Edom will be completely destroyed, with not a trace left behind. The main charges against Edom are found in verses 12-14: "But do not gloat over the day of your brother in the day of his misfortune; do not rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their ruin; do not boast in the day of distress. Do not enter the gate of my people in the day of their calamity; do not gloat over his disaster in the day of his calamity; do not loot his wealth in the day of his calamity. Do not stand at the crossroads to cut off his fugitives; do not hand over his survivors in the day of distress." ~ The judgement is summarised in verse 15: "As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head." ~ The final part of the book relates to the people of Jerusalem. God promises that he will preserve a remnant of his people who will survive the exile and reclaim the land that is theirs, according to his plans and promise. To the devastated people of Judah, this would have been an incredible promise of hope. It seemed, to all intents and purposes, that their future was doomed and that God's promises to Abraham had come to nothing. But God promises that Judah will become like a raging fire once more, whilst Edom is reduced to stubble. Judah's time of judgement for her own sin would be over, and then God would judge her enemies. The final words of the book, in verse 21, declare that “the kingdom shall be the Lord's.” The promised land of the Old Testament foretells the reality of the greater promised land, which is the coming kingdom of God. Matthew's gospel in particular speaks of this prom-ised kingdom, which Jesus ushered in during his time on earth. The whole of the Bible is the story of this ultimate kingdom, reaching its climax in the book of Revelation. The king-dom of God is already here, but it is not yet fully here. That won't happen until Jesus re-turns. In chapter 11 of the book of Hebrews, the writer recounts the names of the men and women of the Old Testament who trusted in God's promises to them regarding the coming kingdom. He then writes in verse 13-16: “These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.” ~ This city is the new Jerusalem, the heavenly kingdom. Jesus used several metaphors to try to help his listeners grasp the nature of the kingdom of God. He described it as a tiny mustard seed which grew into a huge tree, or as a tiny amount of yeast which could make a whole batch of dough rise. From tiny, seemingly in-consequential beginnings, something great grows. When all seemed lost to the exiled people of Judah, God says “just wait and see what I will do”. And the glory of the final kingdom is made all the greater by the trial of the journey. ~ You and I are invited to be part of this coming kingdom of God. No matter how small and insignificant we might feel in the great plan of God, and no matter how dire our circumstances seem to be, we can be assured that God's kingdom is coming and we can be part of it. It is surprising and mysterious, hidden and yet revealed, wonderful and awesome. It is something new, something different, something glorious. It is possible for the wisest brains to miss it completely whilst little children understand and embrace it. ~ God is doing a new thing and he invites us to come and see. The prophet Isaiah recorded God's words to his exiled people: “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:18-19) ~ Some 700 years after Isaiah, Jesus walked the streets of Jerusalem and declared: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) ~ Even the seemingly obscure prophecy of Obadiah is part of Jesus' great story. It's all about him. Between the lines of prophecy about Edom and Judah we see the greater picture of God's redemption plan and his justice, mercy and grace. When the risen Jesus walked on the road to Emmaus and explained to the amazed disciples how the Law and all the prophets spoke about himself, I like to think that he said a bit about Obadiah. ~ We've got four more books to look at before this series draws to a close, and there are lots more interesting things to come as we look at Haggai, Zechariah, Joel and Malachi. Join me next week if you can! ~ ~   Right Mouse click or tap here to download this episode as an audio mp3 file

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Hear the heartwarming transformation of a killer turned Jesus freak. Hear how Louis Dooley entered prison at 19 with two life sentences and already planned to kill a third for sending him a care package.  ”I kind of looked around and I was like, ‘Who is this, the welcoming committee or something?' "And so I look in the box and there were a bunch of snacks, some socks, underwear, t-shirts, all things I didn't have. And so my first thought was ‘I got to kill this guy because where I'm from, you don't give somebody something for nothing!'"Hear how a piece of paper that night gave him a new life sentence of freedom in Christ.  Louis was served two life sentences plus 100 years in prison, and amazingly, this is where his life begins. He made God a promise from prison and Louis never looked back. He received parole, got married, and is the leader of Philemon House ministry. He is the author of Prison Saved My Life.Louis' book, Prison Saved My Life Philemon HouseOne80 Episode 55, The Prison Story of Michael BuhrmanLet us know what you thought of the show!Follow One80 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website.Never miss a One80. Join our email list. Follow us on Instagram.Share One80, here's how!OneWay Ministries

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Luke 24 is the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the difference it makes. Remember the ladies as they came to thetomb, they had perplexed hearts. The disciples walking to Emmaus, they haddiscouraged hearts. And now we're looking at some disciples in an upper roomthat have troubled hearts.  Andthat takes me back to John 14:1 where Jesus, just before His crucifixion in theupper room, no doubt the same room they are in now, had told them, "Letnot your heart be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in Me." Andthen also in verse 27, Jesus had told them in John 14, "Peace I leave withyou. My peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth give I unto you. Let notyour heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." Look now at  verse 36 of Luke 24, where Jesus shows up inthe midst of these disciples in the upper room, but they were terrified andfrightened.  Jesusstood in the midst of them and said, "Peace to you." Now,what's interesting about this is this “Peace to you” statement thatJesus makes. You will find in John's gospel that Jesus makes it at least threetimes in the first eight days of His resurrection. Notice in John chapter 20:19,“On the first day of the week, Jesus comes to the upper room and for fear ofthe Jews they had the doors locked. They were afraid. Jesus came, stood in themidst of them, and said, "Peace be with you." Then again in verse21, after He talked to them, showing them His hands and His feet, as we justread in Luke's gospel, Jesus said to them again, "Peace to you, as theFather sent Me, so send I you." Eight days later in verse 26, they'reback in the upper room meeting together, now with Thomas, and Jesus came, thedoors being shut, stood in the midst, and for the third time said, "Peaceto you."  Youknow the Bible teaches that if we don't have Jesus Christ, we don't have peace.We are born into this world without this contentment, satisfaction, fulfillmentthat peace gives us. There's something missing. In Isaiah  Bible says that “The wicked are like thetroubled sea when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt, there isno peace says my God to the wicked” (Isaiah 57:20-21). And my friend, we'reborn with wicked hearts and they lack peace. But we find Good News in Romans 5:1that tells us, "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace withGod through our Lord Jesus Christ."  Myfriend, there's peace with God that's made through Jesus Christ and His deathon the cross. Then  Jesus can say to youtoday, if you trust Him to be your Savior, "Peace be to you." Andthen, my friend, even as a believer, we can lose that peace. Here are thedisciples of Jesus who followed Him now for three and a half years. And theyhave the word of many people that He is risen, and yet they still are troubled.So what does Jesus do? He shows up, shows them His hands, His feet. He appearsto them and then He opens their understanding to the scriptures and in verse 45it says that they might comprehend the scriptures.  Theanswer to this lack of peace, this disturbance, these troubled hearts that wehave today are the scriptures and belief and faith in the words that Jesusgives us in those scriptures. And so, my friend, today, turn to Jesus. Turn tothe Word of God. The book of Hebrews tells us, "Looking unto Jesus, theauthor and the finisher of our salvation." That's where you findpeace. You won't find it in a book. You won't find it in a conference. Youwon't find it in relationships. You won't find it in education. You won't findit in money. You won't find it with friends. My friend, you find peace with JesusChrist through His Word, through believing and making sure your eyes are fixedon Him. Handle Him and touch Him in the Word. And my friend, your heart won'tbe troubled. You'll have a peace that only Jesus can give you.  Ipray today that Jesus will speak peace to your heart today as you seek Him inthe Scriptures!  Godbless!

In this series we investigate, detail and harmonize the chronology of the Passion Week of Christ from Jesus' Triumphal Entry, to His crucifixion to the Road to Emmaus, using 10 Key Evidence Pieces in a jury trial format. In Part 11 we present closing arguments to our case.

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

BeforeI begin my chat in Luke 24, I'd like to ask for special prayer. This morning,I'll be driving to Roanoke, Virginia. From there, this afternoon my sonJonathan and I will catch a flight to Colorado to attend a graduation for two ofhis sons, Elijah and Jeriah, from a two-week Biblical World View Camp at the Summit.We'll also see my older sister Lynda, who is in a nursing home there in Denver.She retired from United Airlines several years ago and was able to giftJonathan and myself with the opportunity to fly free on United Airlines on standbyanywhere in the world for the last twenty plus years.ThenSaturday morning I will drive to Lynchburg Virginia to the Thomas TerraceBaptist Church, where my brother Mark is pastor, and attend a “Going Home CelebrationService” for Carl Townsend's wonderful wife Leah, who was a wonderful wife andChristian lady who served the Lord in so many ways. We'll be honoring hermemory and celebrating her life. I won't be back home in Sneads Ferry NC, untillate Saturday night. I'll do my best to keep up with the chats, so bear with meas there might be some challenges in getting them recorded and posted oninternet. God bless you and thank you for your prayers. Aswe continue to look at Luke 24 and the resurrection appearances of Christ, weneed to remember, according to Dr. Wilmington and other good Bible commentators,that Christ probably appeared at least eleven different times and occasions toHis disciples after His resurrection. There could have been more, but these arethe recorded appearances of Jesus Christ in the Gospels, giving proof thatJesus died, He was buried, and He rose again. The first verses of 1 Corinthians15 give a lists of several of those appearances. We need to remind ourselves ofthat often. It's the very foundation of our faith that Jesus indeed is risen! Herein this chapter we read about some of those appearances, and Luke gives somedetails we don't even read in the other gospels, which is very interesting. Tothe “perplexed” women at the empty tomb, Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene. Onthe road to Emmaus, Jesus appear to the two “sad” disciples, and opens theireyes and their understanding, and they literally get so excited they run backto Jerusalem. As I read the timetable here, it had to be late in the eveningbefore they got back because it was still on that resurrection day. They getback and tell exactly what happened, so excited in that upper room.  Thenin verse 36, as they said these things, Jesus Himself stood in the midst ofthem and said to them, "Peace to you." They were terrified andfrightened and supposed they'd seen a spirit. Just imagine, Jesus appeared tothe two fellows on the road to Emmaus, and it was only after He broke breadwith them that their eyes were opened, and they beheld Him, and almostimmediately He vanishes out of their sight. Now, with the doors being shut,according to other scriptures, Jesus appears in the same room with them. Ofcourse, they're terrified. So He says to them, "Why are you troubled?And why do doubts arise in your hearts? Behold My hands and My feet, that it isI Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as yousee I have."  Jesusrose from the dead physically, not just spiritually. He's not a ghost. He is ina physical body and even today sits in a physical body in heaven. “When Hehad said this, He showed them His hands and His feet. But while they did notbelieve for joy and marveled, He said to them…”. Can you imagine theirmixed emotions? Jesus assures them that it is He, Himself with many comfortingwords and eats with them. Today we can go to the word of God and commune withJesus. We can feel His touch as we commune with Him in His Word and prayer. Yes,today we can believe, and our troubled hearts will also find peace. Godbless!

Todaywe're looking at Luke 24:25-35. Luke is the only gospel that tells us the storyabout these two men on the road to Emmaus. While they're walking, they'reconfused, troubled, sad, discouraged, and disappointed. Jesus did not fulfillthe expectations they had about setting up the kingdom and running out theRomans authorities. They had heard that Jesus had resurrected, but they did notbelieve. My friends, when we don't believe in the resurrection like we should,even as believers, we're going to be disappointed, discouraged, and sad. Sowhat is the answer to that?  Wefind it here in this passage. Jesus talked to them about the Scriptures, Moses,the prophets, and all the things in them concerning Himself. Then He acted asif He would go further when they got to the village of Emmaus. But theyconstrained Him and said, "No, it's getting evening. Stay with us."So He did, and what happened next, Luke say it best: “As He sat at the tablewith them, He took bread, blessed, and broke it, and gave it to them. Thentheir eyes were opened, and they knew Him, and He vanished from their sight.They said to one another, "Did not our hearts burn within us while He talkedwith us on the road and while He opened the scriptures to us?" So theyrose up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem and found the eleven and thosewho were with them gathered together, saying, "The Lord is risen indeedand has appeared to Simon." They told about the things that had happenedon the road and how He was known to them in the breaking of bread.” Whata powerful message for you and me today. It was as they heard the scriptures,as Jesus talked and conversed with them and fellowshipped with them, theirhearts began to burn. Even though they didn't see Him exactly as He really is,the Son of God, the risen Savior, their hearts still burned from the Scriptures.Then as they sat at bread with Him and He broke it, their eyes were opened.  Myfriend, the answer to sad, discouraged, disappointed hearts is when you spendtime with Jesus. Spend time with Jesus in His Word, meditate upon Him, thinkabout Him, and listen to Him. Your heart will begin to burn, and that's when Heopens your eyes, makes Himself known to you in the scripture, and you have thatreal fellowship with the Lord. This is what we need, “Just a closer walkwith Jesus”, as the old hymn says. Spend that time with Him.  That'swhat you and I should desire more than anything else as we open up the Scripturein the morning, not just to read our devotional Scriptures, but to spend timewith Jesus in His Word. As they ran back the eight miles to Jerusalem to theUpper Room so excited that they couldn't wait to tell the other disciples whatthey had experienced. I'll guarantee you if every church member spent time withJesus during the week in the word of God, when they came together on Sundaymorning, they would not have a dead service.  Whenthey got back to the service, the other eleven and many of the other followersof Jesus were all excited about what had happened. They exclaimed that Simonhad also seen Jesus. They were all saying, "Jesus indeed is risen. He hasappeared." What a great service they had back then, rejoicing in the risenSavior. Would to God that would happen in all our churches each Sunday. I havea feeling that he crowds would come like they did on the day of Pentecost.  Haveyour experienced a “burning heart” recently? When was the last time that theHoly Spirit opened your eyes to see Jesus in the Word?  Godbless!

What's next when your picture of God doesn't match your experience? In the midst of processing their own disappointment and confusion two travelers encountered Jesus on the Road to Emmaus. Their story reminds us that our journey of faith isn't about having it all figured out; it's about walking with Jesus until our eyes are opened to something deeper, fuller, and more alive.

It's hard to fathom how Jesus's followers felt immediately after his death. When He secretly appeared to His saddened followers on the road to Emmaus, they said, we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel (Lk 24:21). When Jesus died, their hopes died with him. But at the empty tomb, hope was found again! The empty tomb remains the Christian's symbol of hope. Whenever we are tempted to see Christ's promises as empty, all we need to do is look to the empty tomb. “He is not here, for he has risen, as he said” (Matt. 28:6). Take Home Message: Because the tomb is empty, I have hope. I have hope because I remember the promises of Christ (1-10). Jesus promised that… He will not reject you.He will make Himself known to you.He will answer you. I have hope because I encountered the risen Christ (11-16). I have hope because I announce the ascended Christ (17-18). We announce the ascended Christ to the… Discouraged: “I'll never be good enough.”Distrusting: “No one's good enough.”Depressed: “Why even try?” Message: The Resurrection Scripture: John 20:1-18 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

When the womencame to the tomb, they were perplexed because the stone was rolled away, butthere was no body. And the answer was that they needed to remember God's Word.Today, are you perplexed about the problems of life, the problems in yourfamily, and all the different difficulties or challenges that you're goingthrough? You're perplexed as to what is going to happen? What is going on? Oh,my friend, remember the promises of Jesus. He had promised His followers thatHe will rise again. “He indeed is risen as He said”.  NextLuke tells us of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, and as they'rewalking, they're talking and questioning. In verse 15 says; “So it was whilethey conversed and reasoned that Jesus Himself drew near and went with them.But their eyes were restrained so that they did not know who He was”. Hewas like a stranger. He begins walking with them and asked, "What are youtalking about”? “What things happened in Jerusalem?" Of course Heknew, but He wanted to hear them say it, and listen to them. They began to tellHim how disappointed they were because they thought that Jesus, the Messiah,would bring about His kingdom. How He had healed people and had done greatmiracles. And they were so disappointed and now they're discouraged because itdidn't turn out as they expected. And it says, their hearts were sad.  FinallyJesus speaks in verses 25-26. Canyou imagine this Bible conference? Oh, don't you wish you could have beenthere? Imagine the greatest Teacher explaining the greatest themes from thegreatest Book and bringing the greatest blessings to men's lives that openedtheir eyes to see Him and hearts opened up to receive the Word and lips openedto go back and tell others what Jesus had said to them. Wouldn't you have lovedthat?  Yearsago, as I was reading Morning and Evening devotional by Charles Haddon Spurgeonevery day, I came across the following devotional on January 18 in the eveningsection. And I thought I would share it today as we close our chat. Spurgeon wrote: "Thetwo disciples on the road to Emmaus had a most profitable journey. Theircompanion and teacher was the best of tutors; the interpreter one of athousand, in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. The LordJesus condescended to become a preacher of the gospel, and He was not ashamedto exercise His calling before an audience of two persons, neither does He nowrefuse to become the teacher of even one. Let us court the company of soexcellent an Instructor, for till He is made unto us wisdom we shall never bewise unto salvation. Thisunrivalled tutor used as His class-book the best of books. Although able toreveal fresh truth, He preferred to expound the old. He knew by His omnisciencewhat was the most instructive way of teaching, and by turning at once to Mosesand the prophets, He showed us that the surest road to wisdom is notspeculation, reasoning, or reading human books, but meditation upon the Word ofGod. The readiest way to be spiritually rich in heavenly knowledge is to dig inthis mine of diamonds, to gather pearls from this heavenly sea. When JesusHimself sought to enrich others, He wrought in the quarry of Holy Scripture. Thefavoured pair were led to consider the best of subjects, for Jesus spake ofJesus, and expounded the things concerning Himself. Here the diamond cut thediamond, and what could be more admirable? The Master of the House unlocked Hisown doors, conducted the guests to His table, and placed His own dainties uponit. He who hid the treasure in the field Himself guided the searchers to it.Our Lord would naturally discourse upon the sweetest of topics, and He couldfind none sweeter than His own person and work: with an eye to these we shouldalways search the Word. O for grace to study the Bible with Jesus as both ourteacher and our lesson!” God bless!

This Sunday at Emmaus we're diving into the book of Joshua, and yes—it's got giants, battles, and a whole lot of hard questions. But it's also a story about what happens when we dare to trust God in the face of fear.If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or afraid to take the next step—this one's for you.

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

A review of a Steven Furtick sermon from Elevation Church, compliments of Pirate Christian Radio - Why Elevation: Emmaus.

MToJ - The Emmaus Incident  KINGDOME ETHICS PODCAST Hosts: David P. Gushee Jeremy Hall Music from taketones: Sunsets

"...21 But we were hoping that it was He whowas going to redeem Israel. Indeed, besides all this, today is the third daysince these things happened. ..." Luke24 is one of the most exciting chapters in the Bible as it describes theresurrection of Jesus Christ. When you have a perplexed heart like the womendid at the cross because they found no body, the tomb was opened and Jesusrevealed Himself to Mary Magdalene, I am reminded that Jesus knows our name andreveals Himself to perplexed hearts. And oh, what a difference it makes. Todaywe're looking at verses 13 through 35, where we find two disciples on the roadto Emmaus. They had disappointed, discouraged hearts, and were sad until Jesusopened their eyes. Emmauswas a small village eight miles northwest of Jerusalem. The two men walkingfrom Jerusalem to Emmaus were disappointed and discouraged disciples who had noreason to be discouraged. They had heard the reports of the women that the tombwas empty and that Jesus was alive, but they did not believe them. They hadhoped that Jesus would redeem Israel (Luke 24:21), but their hopes had beenshattered. We get the impression that these men were discouraged anddisappointed because God did not do what they wanted Him to do. They saw theglory of the kingdom, but they failed to understand the suffering. Jesusgraciously walked with them and listened to their "animated heatedconversation" (Luke 24:17, Wuest). No doubt they were quoting various OldTestament prophecies and trying to remember what Jesus had taught, but theywere unable to put it all together and come up with an explanation that madesense. Was He a failure or a success? Why did He have to die? Was there afuture for the nation? Thereis a touch of humor in Luke 24:19 when Jesus asked, "What things?"He had been at the heart of all that had happened in Jerusalem, and now Hewas asking them to tell Him what occurred! How patient our Lord is with us asHe listens to us tell Him what He already knows (Romans 8:34). But we may come"boldly" ("with freedom of speech") to His throne and pourout our hearts to Him, and He will help us (Ps. 62:8; Heb. 4:16). Thelonger Cleopas talked, the more he indicted himself and his friend for theirunbelief. What more evidence could they want? Witnesses (including Apostles)had seen the tomb empty. Angels had announced that Jesus was alive. Witnesseshad seen Him alive and heard Him speak. The proof was there! "Faithcomes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17). Thisexplains why Jesus opened the Word to these two men as the three of them walkedto Emmaus. Their real problem was not in their heads but in their hearts (seeLuke 24:25 and 32, and note v. 38). They could have discussed the subject fordays and never arrived at a satisfactory answer. What they needed was a freshunderstanding of the Word of God, and Jesus gave that understanding to them. Heopened the Scriptures and then opened their eyes, and they realized that Jesuswas not only alive but right there with them! Whatwas their basic problem? They did not believe all that the prophets had writtenabout the Messiah. That was the problem with most of the Jews in that day: theysaw Messiah as a conquering Redeemer, but they did not see Him as a SufferingServant. As they read the Old Testament, they saw the glory but not thesuffering, the crown but not the cross. The teachers in that day were notunlike some of the "success preachers" today, blind to the totalmessage of the Bible. Maythe Lord help us to get into the Word and give Jesus and the Holy Spirit timeto open our eyes to the Truth! Remember Jesus parting words to His disciples: “…andlo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:20). Godbless!

     Those who are positive to God desire to know Him, His Word, and to pursue His will.[1] Jesus said to fellow Jews, “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself” (John 7:17). Jesus explained that knowing God's Word is predicated on a desire to do (ποιέω poieo) His will. But some hearts are negative to God. And when the heart is negative, no amount of divine revelation will prove persuasive. For example, Noah preached to his generation for one hundred and twenty years, but they refused to listen (Gen 6:3; 2 Pet 2:5). Jeremiah spoke to the leaders of Israel, saying, “these twenty-three years the word of the LORD has come to me, and I have spoken to you again and again, but you have not listened” (Jer 25:3). Preachers are responsible for the accurate output of the message, not the outcome of response. Jesus spoke to the hard-hearted Pharisees and said, “Why do you not understand what I am saying? It is because you cannot hear My word” (John 8:43). Jesus then gave the answer, saying, “You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father” (John 8:44). They could not hear His words because they were unsaved and negative to God. These were men who “loved the darkness rather than the Light” (John 3:19). Paul described them as ones “who suppress the truth in unrighteousness” (Rom 1:18). Paul also spoke about the unsaved person, saying, “But an unbeliever does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised” (1 Cor 2:14).      Of the one with positive volition it is said, “his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night” (Psa 1:2). The benefit of such a lifelong meditation is that “He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers” (Psa 1:3). The godly person is positive to the Lord and welcomes His Word. David said, “I delight to do Your will, O my God; Your Law is within my heart” (Psa 40:8). The word delight (חָפֵץ chaphets) means, “to take pleasure in, desire…to delight in…to be willing…to feel inclined.”[2] This speaks of positive volition. God's will (רָצוֹן ratson) refers to what pleases Him. And the word Law (תּוֹרָה torah) means teaching, direction, or instruction. Jeremiah said, “Your words were found and I ate them, and Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart; for I have been called by Your name, O LORD God of hosts” (Jer 15:16). To eat God's Word is a picture of positive volition, as Jeremiah welcomed the divine revelation into himself. Once received, it delighted (שִׂמְחָה simchah – delight, joy, gladness, mirth) his heart (לֵבָב lebab – inner person, mind, will). When the human heart is receptive to God's Word, it transforms that person from the inside out, and this is both cognitive and experiential. David and Jeremiah wanted to know and walk with God, and His divine revelation, properly understood and applied, was the means to know and do it.      God will open His Word to the believer who dedicates his/her life to Him. Paul wrote, “I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect” (Rom 12:1-2). A surrendered life to God makes the Christian sensitive to the illuminating ministry of the Holy Spirit, who aids the believer to know God's will. Concerning this passage, Arnold Fruchtenbaum states: "It is hard to understand what the will of God is without this act of dedication because the believer does not have the Spirit's illumination, which is needed to determine God's will from His Word. Dedication brings knowledge of the will of God. Having the knowledge, the logical outworking of the dedicated life is that the believer now does the will of God."[3]      God's Word is powerful and accomplishes what He desires (Isa 55:10-11; Heb 4:12), and it lights a fire in the heart of those who welcome it. For example, Jesus, after his resurrection, walked for several miles with two disciples and gave them a Bible lesson which lasted for several hours as they traveled “to a village named Emmaus, which was about seven miles from Jerusalem” (Luke 24:13). Luke records what Jesus taught them, saying, “beginning with Moses and with all the prophets, He explained to them the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures” (Luke 24:27). After His Bible lesson, the two disciples said, “Were not our hearts burning within us while He was speaking to us on the road, while He was explaining the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32). The heart that is positive to God receives His Word and is excited by what is learned.  Theological Categories of God's Will      The will of God can be divided between His secret will and revealed will. Moses wrote, “The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our sons forever, that we may observe all the words of this law” (Deut 29:29). What God has revealed in Scripture is what He deems important for us to know. But there are secret things that belong to the Lord, and on these matters, He remains silent. To spend our days pursuing what God has sovereignly chosen to keep hidden will only lead to unending frustration. If we have prayed and studied God's Word thoroughly yet received no clear answer, it may be because God does not want us to know—or not to know at this time. Though we may seek to discern God's will through daily experiences, such providential insight must always remain subordinate to His written revelation. Though we don't know many particulars about what God is doing, we know He is in control and directing history to the return of Christ and the eternal state, and we are part of that grand plan. Concerning God's revealed will, Scripture presents several classifications. Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.   [1] For the Christian, this does not mean our sin nature is removed, nor that we are free from the sinful pressures of living in a fallen world. Paul said, “I find then the principle that evil is present in me, the one who wants to do good. For I joyfully concur with the law of God in the inner man, but I see a different law in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is in my members” (Rom 7:21-23). This struggle with sin continues until we leave this world and enter into heaven. Until then, it is God's will that we remain in this world (John 17:15) as His ambassadors (2 Cor 5:20). [2] Ludwig Koehler et al., The Hebrew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old Testament, 340. [3] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, Faith Alone: The Condition of Our Salvation: An Exposition of the Book of Galatians and Other Relevant Topics, ed. Christiane Jurik, Second Edition. (San Antonio, TX: Ariel Ministries, 2016), 120.

They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. . . . Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread. — Luke 24:33-35 The news about Jesus was too important for the disciples in Emmaus to keep to themselves! Isn't it interesting that these disciples “returned at once to Jerusalem” to tell the others about their meeting with Jesus? A little while earlier, they had urged Jesus to stay with them because it would soon be dark—and generally too dangerous to travel. But now they rushed back to Jerusalem, seemingly without a care for their own safety. These disciples could not contain their excitement to tell the good news about Jesus. They were no longer victims of a terrible loss; they were disciples on a mission. They realized that their calling was to confirm the teaching of the Scriptures about Jesus and to bear witness about the resurrected Jesus to others who were feeling lost and defeated. They brought to the other disciples the same encouragement, comfort, and grace that they had received. When we think of ourselves as part of Jesus' sheepfold, it can be easy to think that we have been invited to be passive followers. What we see in the Emmaus disciples' response is that we too are invited to partner with Jesus. We are called to tell the world that God loves everyone so much that he continues to seek all who are lost so that they can come home where they belong. Who in your midst needs to hear this good news? Lord, give us courage and energy to share your good news with all who need to hear it. Amen.

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. — Luke 24:27 The two disciples from Emmaus needed to be reminded that they belonged to Jesus. They were like lost and confused sheep that couldn't articulate what they were feeling. They also needed to hear the Lord's story again in all of its beautiful simplicity and complexity. Like a good teacher, Jesus retaught his students so that they would be well prepared to tell his good-news story to others. While Jesus' closest disciples hid from the authorities who had arrested and sentenced him, these two sheep had fled for the distant safety of their home in Emmaus. Thinking that Jesus was a stranger, they shared about their trauma and disappointment with their shepherd, and he helped them make sense of recent events by rooting his death and resurrection in all the Scriptures had said about him. Jesus gave them the Word to feast on, despite their doubts and fears and the threats of their enemies. The disciples' encounter with the living Word and what the Scriptures said about him changed their lives forever. We are reminded that we too need to know God's big story so that we can make sense of how God keeps working in his world today. It can be easy to be overwhelmed by surprising, chaotic events and forget God's promises, invitations, and commands to us today. How have you responded to the Lord's invitation to feast on his Word today? Lord, thank you for your Word, and help us to feast on it daily. Amen.

As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them. . . . — Luke 24:15 One of the more poignant places where Jesus shows up as the good shepherd is when he goes after two despondent, lost sheep on the road to Emmaus. Jesus meets these two followers in their grief and invites them to tell their story, processing their disappointment. Jesus' very presence with them reminds them that they still belong to him and are part of his sheepfold, in spite of their doubts and confusion. He literally walks with them in the valley of the shadow of his own death. The good shepherd is a pursuer. These sheep are on their own, vulnerable, lost, and in need of their shepherd's care. They are not abandoned to their misconceptions of current events. Jesus seeks them out and tends to them as only he can. This story serves as a comforting reminder to any of us who may be facing doubts or disappointment with God. Maybe we have had to adjust our understanding of how God is working in our lives, or maybe we feel unworthy of the shepherd's care because we have wandered away. This picture of Jesus underscores his love for us and our worth to him as his beloved sheep. In what ways does this story bring you comfort today? When we feel lost and alone, Lord, open our eyes to your very real presence in our lives. Give us glimpses of your presence and work all around us. Amen.

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Hear more sermons at http://www.lvbaptist.org/service-podcast/ Watch Our TV Broadcast here: http://www.lvbaptist.org/tv-programs/ Visit us here: Lehigh Valley Baptist Church 4702 Colebrook Ave. Emmaus, PA 18049

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 22-24; Hebrews 12 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to another episode of the Daily Radio Bible with your host, Hunter. Today, on this 15th day of July and day 196 in our journey through the Scriptures, we'll be delving into Isaiah chapters 22–24 and Hebrews chapter 12. Hunter guides us through powerful passages of prophetic warning and hope, exploring themes of God's judgment, His restorative discipline, and the unshakable kingdom we receive through Christ. We'll reflect on the fire of God's love that doesn't destroy, but rather renews and restores us from the inside out—a transformative presence that brings hope and healing. The episode wraps with heartfelt prayers, encouragement to walk in peace and mercy, and a reminder that you—yes, you—are deeply loved by God. So grab your Bible, settle in, and let's journey together in the pages of God's Word. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Our God is a consuming fire. That's what we read in Hebrews today, and it's a truth that can make us pause. What does it mean that God is a consuming fire? Are we to be afraid? Are we to draw back? In the scriptures today, we see that this fire is not one that destroys from the outside, not a fire of judgment that leaves us condemned and hopeless. Instead, it's a fire that works on the inside—a fire that renews, restores, and heals. It forges and makes new. Just think of those two men on the road to Emmaus—when the resurrected Christ walked with them and explained the scriptures, their hearts “burned within them.” It wasn't destruction they felt, but the fire of hope being restored, the fire of God's love revealing Himself. And that is what this consuming fire is about. It's love that loves unto purity, a love that cannot leave us as we are but burns away all that is not love, all that keeps us from knowing Him. It cauterizes, it heals, it cleanses, and it draws us closer to Him. Jesus, our champion, endured the fire of judgment for us, so that we might experience the restoring fire of His presence right now, right in the very core of who we are. So as we come to God's word—each day, in every moment—may we be open to that inner fire, that gentle but powerful work of God, guiding us, correcting us, making us like Him. May we have hearts that burn with His presence, with His correction, with His love. Let's invite Him to burn away everything that isn't His love, to make us new from the inside out. That's my prayer—for myself, for my family, and for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Almighty and ever loving God, you have brought us to the light of a new morning. Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may walk this day in peace. Guard our steps from temptation. Shield us from the weight of fear and shame, and lead us deeper into the joy of your presence through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. O Christ, light of the nations, shine in every place where shadows dwell. Call the scattered home, heal the wounds of division and gather all people into the communion of your grace. May the knowledge of the Lord cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. Amen. And now, Lord, make my hands ready for mercy. Make my eyes quick to see the hurting, my ears open to the cry of the lonely, and my feet swift to bring good news. Let me seek to bless, not to be noticed, to serve, not to be praised, to forgive, not to hold back. For in your way is life, in your mercy is healing, and in your love is the peace this world cannot give. Amen. And now, as our Lord has taught us, we are bold to pray: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL