Podcasts about ephesian

Listen in as Pastor Matt brings a daily scripture, encouragement and prayer just for you. Today's fresh catch comes from Ephesian 1:4.

Pastor Adam BowersIn this message, Pastor Adam continues our Revelation series by exploring Jesus' letter to the church in Ephesus. The Ephesian church was known for its strong doctrine, perseverance, and commitment to truth. Yet Jesus confronts them with a sobering warning: they had abandoned their first love. Through the history of Ephesus and the words of Paul, Timothy, John, and Jesus Himself, we discover why God's design for His church has always been uncompromising truth and authentic love working together.What should our church be known for? And what happens when we become more concerned with being right than loving people well?Scripture: Revelation 2:1-7, Acts 20 28-30, Ephesians 4-5

Pastor Phelps preaches from Acts 20 about Paul's message to the Ephesian elders. Message originally preached Sunday morning May 31, 2026.

What if giving is not losing at all, but investing in what lasts forever? Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:20 to “store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” That one command reshapes the way we think about money, possessions, and generosity. Wealth can be dangerous when it owns us, but when it is surrendered to God, it can become a powerful tool for eternal good. Randy Alcorn, bestselling author and founder of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM), has spent decades helping Christians think biblically about money, possessions, generosity, and eternity. His message is both sobering and hopeful: wealth is a test, but it can also become a tool for God's Kingdom. Money Reveals the Heart Money has a powerful influence on our spiritual lives because it reveals what we truly value. Jesus said in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” The way we handle money is not separate from our discipleship. It shows what we trust, what we prioritize, and where our affections are directed. As Alcorn explains, money is not spiritually insignificant. It has power. Either it will serve God, or we will find ourselves serving it. That is why Scripture speaks so directly about the danger of loving money. In 1 Timothy 6:9–10, Paul warns that “those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare,” and that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.” He goes on to say that some have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. Those are sobering words. Money is a good gift from God. It can provide for needs, bless families, support ministry, and help those who are suffering. But when it becomes the object of our trust or the center of our affections, it competes with God for our hearts. Wealth Is Both a Tool and a Test The danger of wealth is real, but it is not the whole story. Money surrendered to God can be used in deeply meaningful ways. It can help advance the gospel. It can meet practical needs. It can support Bible translation, provide clean water, help rescue those trapped in exploitation, care for the vulnerable, and strengthen the work of the local church. Money is not the source of transformation—God is. But God often uses the resources of His people to accomplish His purposes in the world. That is why faithful stewardship begins with surrender. We come before the Lord and say, “This all belongs to You. What do You want me to do with it?” When wealth is surrendered to God, it loses its grip on our hearts and becomes an opportunity to participate in His redemptive work. Giving Is Investing in Eternity Jesus' command to store up treasures in heaven reframes generosity. Giving is not merely parting with money. It is investing in what lasts. Alcorn compares this to investing in a company. When you own shares, you naturally begin to pay attention. You read the reports. You notice the headlines. Your interest follows your investment. The same principle applies spiritually. When we put our resources toward the things of God, our hearts begin to follow. If we want to care more deeply about our church, missions, the poor, or the work of the gospel, one practical step is to invest our time, energy, and money there. Generosity does not only bless the recipient. It reshapes the giver. It moves our hearts toward the Kingdom of God. Generosity Produces Joy In Acts 20:35, Paul reminds the Ephesian elders of Jesus' words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” That does not mean giving is merely a duty. It means generosity leads to joy. The generous life reflects the heart of God, who gives freely and abundantly. Grace itself is rooted in God's giving nature. When we give, we are not simply checking off a spiritual responsibility. We are participating in the generosity of God. That is why giving can loosen anxiety, deepen purpose, and bring joy. The world often defines “the good life” as having more, spending more, and pursuing personal comfort. But Scripture points us toward a better way. In 1 Timothy 6:18–19, Paul urges the wealthy “to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share,” so that they may “take hold of that which is truly life.” The good life is not found in accumulation. It is found in generosity. Defining Enough One of the most important steps in faithful stewardship is learning to define enough. Without a finish line, we can easily assume that every increase in income is meant to raise our lifestyle. But many of us already have more than we need. The question is not simply, “What can I afford?” but “What has God entrusted to me, and how does He want me to use it?” A financial finish line helps create margin for intentional Kingdom-focused generosity. It keeps accumulation from becoming automatic. It invites us to ask better questions about contentment, purpose, and eternal impact. Everything we own is temporary. Possessions wear out. Trends fade. What once felt essential can quickly become clutter. That does not mean material things are evil, but it does mean they cannot bear the weight of our hope. Giving helps break the hold that money and possessions can have on our hearts. Giving Is Not Losing Wealth is both a tool and a test. When we cling to it, it can pull us away from dependence on God. But when we surrender it, money can become a means of worship, service, and eternal investment. Generosity reminds us that God is our ultimate treasure. It trains our hearts to trust Him. It frees us from the illusion that more money will finally make us secure. And it allows us to participate in the work God is doing in the world. Giving is not losing. In the Kingdom of God, giving is investing in what lasts forever. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I live in a 55-plus community in a manufactured home on leased land. We own the home but not the land, which belongs to the community owner. Would a reverse mortgage be possible in this situation, or would a manufactured home on leased land qualify? I have both a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA for retirement, but I'm not retired yet. Why am I required to take RMDs from my IRA at age 72 or 73, even if I'm still working? Do Roth IRAs have RMDs? And how much can my husband and I give through Qualified Charitable Distributions to help reduce taxes? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Money, Possessions, and Eternity by Randy Alcorn The Treasure Principle, Revised and Updated: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving by Randy Alcorn Giving Is the Good Life: The Unexpected Path to Purpose and Joy by Randy Alcorn Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find 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. 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Ephesians 6:10, “Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” This comes BEFORE you put on the armor in verses 11-17. Putting even the best armor on a weak soldier does no good in the battle. The soldier must be strong to use the armor. Maybe you're weak right now – girl you don't need heavy armor – first you need to be strengthened. How do we gain this strength? “Be strong IN the Lord and in his mighty power.” IN THE LORD. Strength comes IN union with God. The original greek used a passive verb literally meaning “be strengthen by someone else”. We are strengthened by God, not by ourselves. If we run into battle without HIS strength, we will lose. If we are strong but without God's armor, we will be defeated. We must have his strength AND his armor. But his strength comes FIRST. Before we are given weapons to fight, we must gain strength and learn how to use our weapons. (Soldiers in basic training). We are called on to actively stand against the enemy, but we are never expected to do so in our own strength—that would be suicidal. “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” This is a divine-human partnership. Not for a moment are we to fight the devil with our own ideas, our money, our strong will, or our own talents. Let's look at this scripture in different translations (Ephesians 6:10) • MSG – God is strong and he wants YOU strong. • TPT – Be supernaturally infused with strength through your life-union with the Lord Jesus. Stand victorious with the force of his explosive power flowing in and through you. Think about an infusion. An infusion is the delivery of fluids, medications or blood from an OUTSIDE source, flowing directly into a person's bloodstream through an IV. The IV is the connection allowing the flow. Without the IV, there is no connection and there is no flow. No flow, no infusion of what is needed. God's word is telling us WE MUST HAVE A CONNECTION TO BE INFUSED BY HIS STRENGTH. That connection is our relationship with Jesus Christ. As we connect with Jesus, we are infused with God's supernatural strength flowing in us and through us. We don't generate that strength, it is divinely infused strength. Spiritual power through connection. Now, with that image, read Ephesian 6:10 TPT again, “Be supernaturally infused with strength through your life-union with the Lord Jesus. Stand victorious with the force of his explosive power flowing in and through you.” (See yourself hooked up to an IV receiving everything you need just flowing into you from an outside source. Strength, healing, power. Receive that!) Jeusus assures us in John 16:33 that, “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. BUT TAKE HEART, BECUASE I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD.” That's the power of Jesus and that's the power that flows through you when you are connected to him and infused by God's strength! Will there still be problems? Yes – and here's why – because there's still a spiritual battle happening. Our problems are like visible wounds from the unseen spiritual battle. Behind most every problem is a spiritual battle to distract us, discourage us, dismiss us or distance us. Our problems are the visible wounds of the battle. Addictions, problems in your marriage, problems with your children, financial struggles, health battles – yes, those are the visible wounds of spiritual battles. But always remember this – 1 John 4:4, “Greater is He that is in you than He that is in the world.” MSG, “The Spirit that is in you is far greater than anything in the world.” If you're feeling weak from the battle, my sister, it's time for your infusion. Before you step into the next battle, before you make another decision, before you quit or before you move forward, be supernaturally infused with strength through your life-union with the Lord Jesus. Stand victorious with the force of his explosive power flowing in and through you. Isn't that the answer for what you're facing? Yes. Isn't that the answer for how you've been feeling? Yes. You're in a battle and before anything else, you need to be supernaturally strengthened. You only receive that through connection with Jesus. Seek him, lean into him, spend time with him, talk to him, rest in him, connect with him. Follow Pamela on Instagram – https://instagram.com/headmamapamela Or Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pamela.crim Find out more about BIG Life – http://biglifehq.com

In Part 3 of Troubled Waters: Clarifying the Confusion About Baptism, we examine one of the most common questions surrounding baptism and salvation: When does the Holy Spirit come to dwell in a believer? Looking at the conversions of Cornelius and the Ephesian disciples, this message explores the connection between the Holy Spirit, baptism, and obedience to the gospel. While we cannot control the supernatural work of the Spirit, we can respond faithfully to God's Word and trust His promises. Listen in....

As we have seen over the last two Sundays, Paul has been proclaiming a message of unity to this Ephesian church. He's been reminding them that all the old divisions – particularly the divisions between Jews and Gentiles – can now be overcome in Christ! There is UNIFYING POWER in the gospel! Ephesians 3:14-21

1 Timothy part 54. Continuation of Pauls challenge to the Ephesian church regarding their care of widows and the need for discernment.

The sermon centers on the vital importance of the local church as God's ordained instrument for evangelism, spiritual growth, and divine purpose, drawing from Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20. It emphasizes the church as a divinely constructed building, a unified body, and a beloved bride, all grounded in Christ, while warning of modern dangers that threaten its vitality. Key perils include the unattended church, where nominal membership replaces faithful participation; the unbowed knee, reflecting a failure in prayer; the unread book, highlighting neglect of Scripture; unconfessed sin, which disrupts fellowship with God; and the unexpressed love, where affection for God and one another goes unspoken. The preacher calls believers to repentance, renewal, and active devotion—through consistent prayer, diligent Bible reading, honest confession, and intentional love—urging each member to steward their spiritual gifts and presence for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.

What does it take not only to start a disciple-making movement, but to see it multiply and remain for generations to come? In this episode, Aila Tasse calls us back to the heart of disciple-making: becoming before doing. Drawing again from John 15, Acts 20 and decades of experience training thousands of leaders across the nations, Aila shares why sustainable movements are ultimately “God stories” — born through abiding in Jesus, shaped by obedience, and carried forward through everyday disciples who model the life of Christ. Aila unpacks three essential stages of movement: Starting Multiplying Sustaining He explains why the DNA present at the beginning of a movement determines what it will become generations later. “The way you start is the way you finish,” he says. If movements are not started with multiplication and sustainability in mind, they will struggle to endure. The conversation explores: Why every disciple is a leader in movements How leaders are developed through modelling a lifestyle of a disciple The danger of movements losing their DNA across generations Why sustainability must be built in from the very beginning The importance of preparing now for the people God will send in the future Aila also reflects on Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20, reminding us that movements survive not because of one charismatic leader, but because healthy leaders are raised, developed and released. “If you don't have a movement, soon God will give you one,” Aila says. “It has already been started.” This episode is a timely challenge for anyone longing to see disciple-making movements that not only begin well — but continue multiplying for generations to come. People sharing from a time of waiting on God in the room before Aila shared: Luke 11:23 — “He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters.” A call to gather with Jesus rather than scatter. A challenge to keep asking God, “What shall I do with my gift or talent Lord?” rather than looking first to worldly solutions. 1 Kings 19:9-13 — Elijah encounters God not in the wind, earthquake or fire, but in the gentle whisper.

The Church talks a lot about power these days. Political power. Cultural influence. Fear. Outrage. Control. But what if the modern Church has forgotten where its power actually comes from?In this sermon from Ephesians 1:15-23, Pastor Jason Barnett explores Paul's prayer for the church in Ephesus and why it still matters today. Living in a culture obsessed with spiritual forces, empire, and fear, the Ephesian believers needed a reminder that Jesus Christ is already reigning above every ruler, authority, and power. And that the same resurrection power that raised Him from the dead is already at work within His people.This message wrestles with spiritual exhaustion, anxiety, culture wars, misplaced trust, and the temptation for Christians to search for “borrowed power” instead of depending on Christ. Along the way, Pastor Jason shares a powerful illustration from Nazarene evangelist Dr. Chic Shaver about fish jumping out of an aquarium searching for freedom, only to discover they left the very environment giving them life.If you've been weary from the noise, fear, division, and pressure surrounding modern Christianity, this sermon is a reminder that the Church does not survive because human beings are powerful. The Church lives because Jesus is alive.Send us Fan MailLinkoln shares his story on why he started coming to Ravenna Church of the Nazarene and shares why you should consider doing the same.Ravenna Church of the Nazarene530 Main Street, Ravenna, KY 40472Support the showThe Dirt Path Sermon Podcast is a place for real sermons that speak to real life. Subscribe and walk the path with us every week.Consider visiting Ravenna Church of the Nazarene where Pastor Jason is the Senior Pastor.   Have a prayer need? Want to share something with Pastor Jason? Email dirtpathpastor@gmail.com

Pastor Kurt takes a deep dive into In 1 Timothy 2:8–15, where Paul moves from speaking about prayer for all people to his desire for how men and women should carry themselves within the life of the church. His desire is that the men be marked by holy, peaceable prayer and that the women be marked by modesty, godliness, and a teachable spirit rather than outward display or disorder. Then Paul gives his directive, placing boundaries around teaching and authority in a way that has become one of the most debated issues in the church. Together, the passage shows both Paul's pastoral desire for order and godliness and his directive for how that order was to be expressed in the Ephesian church.

How Christians Recognize False Teaching EarlyAuthor: Dave JenkinsShow: Anchored in the Word with Dave JenkinsDate: May 14, 2026Show SummaryFalse teaching rarely begins with obvious denials of the truth. More often, it starts with subtle distortions that gradually move people away from the authority of God's Word.In this episode of Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins, Dave explains how Christians can recognize false teaching before it spreads, remain grounded in Scripture, and grow in biblical discernment.Drawing from Matthew 7:15, Acts 20:28–31, Acts 17:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:21, 2 Timothy 4:3, and Hebrews 5:14, this episode shows why false teaching is a biblical reality, how it often begins with small shifts, and how believers can guard themselves through sound doctrine, spiritual maturity, and life in the local church. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}Listen to the EpisodeWatch the EpisodeKey ScripturesMatthew 7:15Acts 20:28–31Acts 17:111 Thessalonians 5:212 Timothy 4:3Hebrews 5:14Episode HighlightsWhy false teaching is a biblical realityHow false teaching often begins with subtle doctrinal shiftsWhy Scripture alone is the final authority for faith and practiceWarning signs Christians should recognize earlyHow false teaching spreads when discernment is neglectedHow believers can guard themselves through sound doctrine and local church lifeWhy biblical discernment is rooted in love for Christ and His peopleFull ArticleHow can Christians recognize false teaching before it spreads?That is not only an important question. It is a necessary one for every Christian and every church today.Throughout church history, false teaching has never announced itself clearly. It rarely begins with open rejection of the gospel. Instead, it often begins subtly, with small distortions that slowly move people away from biblical truth. Scripture does not call believers merely to respond to error after it has done damage. It calls us to recognize it early and remain anchored in Christ through His Word. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}False Teaching Is a Biblical RealityThe New Testament repeatedly warns believers about false teachers. Jesus warned in Matthew 7:15 that false prophets come in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. Paul warned the Ephesian elders in Acts 20 that false teachers would arise even from among God's people. Peter addressed deception directly in his letters, showing that this danger is not rare or unexpected.False teaching is part of life in a fallen world. Christians should not be surprised by it. We should be prepared for it. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}False Teaching Often Begins with Small ShiftsError rarely starts with outright heresy. It often begins with smaller shifts that appear harmless at first. A teacher may begin by adding another authority alongside the Word of God. Biblical terms may be redefined. Experience may be elevated over truth. Spiritual power may be promised without repentance. Personal revelation may begin to rival the authority of Scripture.These changes can seem small in the moment, but over time they reshape both doctrine and practice. That is why discernment matters so much. Christians need to be grounded in the Bible, shaped by the truth, and alert to what subtly pulls people away from Christ. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}Scripture Alone Is the Primary TestThe first and most important question Christians must ask is simple: Does this teaching align with the Word of God?Not partial Scripture. Not isolated verses. Not emotional impressions. The standard is the whole counsel of God. Acts 17:11 praises the Bereans because they examined the Scriptures daily to test what they heard. Biblical discernment always returns to God's Word as the final authority for faith and practice.Christians must test everything and hold fast to what is good. Discernment does not move away from the Bible. It goes back to it again and again, asking what God has actually said and what His Word actually means. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}Warning Signs Christians Should Watch ForScripture teaches believers to watch for patterns.One warning sign is when authority begins to shift away from the Word of God and personal visions, prophecies, or impressions are treated as equal to Scripture. Another warning sign is when Christ becomes secondary and teaching focuses more on human potential, success, or influence than on the saving work of Jesus.Repentance also disappears in false teaching. The gospel calls sinners to repentance and faith, but false teaching often replaces repentance with affirmation. Emotional manipulation can also overtake biblical truth when feelings become the measure of what is real instead of Scripture regulating how we think, live, and respond.Another serious warning sign is the rejection of accountability. False teachers resist correction and avoid biblical oversight. Yet Jesus said that we recognize teachers by their fruit, not merely by their charisma. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}Why False Teaching Spreads So QuicklyFalse teaching spreads because it often promises what sinful hearts naturally want. It offers certainty without submission to the Word of God. It offers power without holiness, blessing without suffering, and authority without accountability.Paul warned in 2 Timothy 4:3 that people gather teachers who tell them what they want to hear. That is why discernment requires humility, not just knowledge. Christians must be willing to submit their desires, assumptions, and preferences to the truth of Scripture. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}How Christians Can Guard ThemselvesScripture gives practical help for guarding against false teaching.Know sound doctrine so truth becomes more recognizable.Stay rooted in a faithful local church where there is biblical shepherding and accountability.Test teaching patiently instead of assuming that popularity equals faithfulness.Grow in spiritual maturity, since mature believers have trained discernment.Prioritize Christ above personalities, remembering that faith is anchored in Him, not in human leaders.God protects His people through His Word, through faithful shepherds, and through the life of the local church. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}The Goal of DiscernmentDiscernment is not about suspicion for its own sake. It is not about controversy, pride, or constant criticism. Biblical discernment is about love.It is love for Christ, love for His truth, love for His church, and love for people who might otherwise be led astray. Discernment protects the gospel and helps keep people anchored in Christ as He is revealed in Scripture.Biblical discernment is not cynicism. It is judging teaching by the truth of God's Word, speaking the truth in love, and exposing error so that the gospel remains clear. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}Takeaways and Reflection QuestionsAre you testing what you hear by the whole counsel of God?Do you recognize how false teaching often begins with small shifts rather than obvious denials?Are you rooted in a faithful local church where biblical accountability is present?Are you growing in discernment through sound doctrine and spiritual maturity?Do you see discernment as an act of love for Christ and His people?Related ResourcesServants of GraceMore podcast episodes at Servants of GraceCall to ActionIf this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend, subscribe to Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins, YouTube, and visit Servants of Grace for more biblical teaching that helps you stay rooted in the Word of God and anchored in Christ.

Jesus said it is more blessed to give than to receive. Most of us would nod along quickly, but very few of us have actually built our lives around it. The word blessed here doesn't just mean happy. It means deeply satisfied, living in the fullness of what you were created for. The giver is the one living the richest life. Paul never stopped being concerned for the Ephesian elders, even while he was away. His concern wasn't just emotional. It showed up in his teaching, his warnings, his prayers, and ultimately his sacrifice. That's what genuine concern looks like. It builds something in a person that outlasts your presence. So think about someone in your life right now who might be feeling slow and low and stuck. Not just a passing thought or a prayer from a distance. What would real, active concern look like for that person this week?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Four donkeys shared a pasture but kept to their own corners, eyeing each other with suspicion. Then the weather turned foul. Cold, wind-driven rain with nowhere to shelter except with each other. By morning, all four were huddled together. In a crisis, mutual jealousy and strangeness were forgotten. We need that kind of breakthrough in the church, but we shouldn't need a crisis to get there. The Ephesian elders walked thirty miles just to see Paul one final time. He wept over them, prayed for them, and loved them deeply. That's love in action. And if our love isn't in action, it's worth asking whether it's really love at all. So think about someone in your church community toward whom your love has been more talk than action. A phone call. A text. Showing up. What would one concrete step look like this week?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Paul said to the Ephesian elders: "You know how I lived when I was with you." That statement only works if you've actually spent real time together. Over three years, they had come to know him as a servant, a teacher, an evangelist, and a sacrificer. And he knew them just as deeply. That kind of mutual knowledge is what made their farewell so emotionally raw. It's also what makes real community possible. But you'll never get there if your involvement is limited to darting in five minutes before church and heading straight for the car when the final song is over. Here's the challenge: stay fifteen extra minutes this weekend. Introduce yourself to someone you don't know. Get into a small group. Grab coffee with someone this week. Just one step. Because the eternal relationships God designed us for don't happen by accident.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Paul calls the Ephesian christians (and us!) to action. The church and the. world are not the same. Get rid of the old ways, live out the new creation life, specifically in how sin is dealt with and how we talk to and about people. It's simple but not easy....

The person sitting next to you at church this weekend is someone you'll be spending eternity with. That new believer who doesn't know anybody yet needs you to reach out. And that Christian you've had a sharp disagreement with, the one you've criticized behind their back, God is probably going to tell you to spend the next thousand years with them and work it out. The relationships we build in the body of Christ aren't just for a season. They're eternal. Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20 is one of the most emotionally raw moments in all of Scripture. Three years of deep ministry together, and now a final goodbye, he knew was permanent. That kind of bond doesn't happen by accident. So think of one person in your church community you've let distance grow with. Because if you're going to spend forever together, building something real now seems like a pretty good place to start.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

Daily Dose of Hope May 1, 2026   Scripture: 2 Timothy 2   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, You are Lord of all.  How often we forget that.  There are times we even put ourselves in your place.  Forgive us, Lord.  Help us to remember that you are God and we are not.  Help us simply live the way you have called us, serve the way you have called us, and love the way you have called us.  We know that we fall short over and over again.  We need you.  All the time, we need you.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters and we have made great progress.  We are now in our final pastoral letter, 2 Timothy.   Today's reading is 2 Timothy 2.  Besides the outside persecution that the church in Ephesus was experiencing, Paul also addresses another serious issue: in-fighting.  There were quarrels and fights within the Ephesian church, literally translated "word battles", that threatened to unravel the young church.  The church members were battling over doctrinal viewpoints and had formed factions.   Paul encourages Timothy to plead with the Ephesian believers to basically remember who and whose they are, to remember what was most important, and to explain how arguments within the church have the potential to damage the Kingdom.   How often have modern day churches been unraveled over word battles?  It's amazing to me how easily distracted we get.  We forget who we represent and get pulled into doctrinal arguments that really don't matter that much.  We read books, we listen to podcasts, and we think we know a lot.  Others think they know a lot too and we get pulled into debates that really aren't that important.  It's then that it's helpful to remember Paul's admonition in this chapter which is basically, "Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David—that is my gospel." Succinct, clear, confident. And we remember again that the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ is not a bunch of words or slick interpretations but is about resurrection—the powerful and loving act of God—remaking our world into the place he always intended it to be. We major in the minors as some people say.  Are you currently engaged in any word battles with other believers?  It's time to put them to rest.    Blessings, Pastor Vicki   May 6 – YHWH, The Self-Existent One – Ex 3:14-15, 6:2-3 • Ps 83:18 • Is 42:8 May 7 – Elohim – The Mighty Creator – Gen 1:1, 1:26-27 • Ps 90:2 • Ecc 12:14 May 8 – El Shaddai – Lord God Almighty – Gen 17:1-2, 28:3, 35:11, 43:14, 49:25 • Ps 91:1 May 11 – El Elyon – The Most High God – Gen 14:18-20 • Ps 7:17, 52:2, 78:35 • Dan 4 May 12 – El Olam – The Everlasting God – Gen 21:33 • Is 40:28, 26:4 • Jer 10:10 • Ps 90:1-2  

Luke offers two stories of disciples who needed more: Apollos, who needed a better education in the word, and the Ephesian disciples, who needed the full baptism of the Spirit. We look at how these two stories offer images of the Word and Spirit and why it's the power of both at work in our lives that guides us into a better faith. 

Text: Acts 20:24Once a hater, Paul is now the spokesperson for the gospel as it spreads throughout the Gentile world. How he engages people is moving - with passion and persuasion. This is seen clearly in his interaction with the Ephesian elders. The well-attested historical fact of the resurrection of Jesus Christ drives us to be focused and passionate as we make disciples.

Send us Fan MailThis podcast covers a section where Paul announces that Gnosticism has invaded the Ephesian church. He warns Timothy and then prepares him as the pastor in how to combat this apostasy. He also announces the damage this kind of false teaching could cause in the church. Next he tells Timothy how to remain faithful. This is an important message for all of us. Support the show

What would it mean to you to have someone know you – to know your strengths and your weaknesses and to know this accurately? All of us carry a fear of being found out and rejected. The beauty of the gospel is that Jesus does Know us Completely *and* has not rejected us. No! On the contrary He loves us more deeply than we can even comprehend. Remember: *Jesus is who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve His God and Father – to Him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen. (Rev 1:5-6)* This is the One who is moving in His church even today. And this is the One who is speaking through His word given to us in our Bibles. And this is the One speaking to these churches in Asia. Ephesus was a seaport city and a place where the Apostle Paul founded a church. The temple of Artemis (or Diana) was ranked among one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. The Apostle John also spend time in Ephesus ministering to the Ephesian church there. In Acts 19:1-10 we read of how the gospel went forth out of Ephesus and in Acts 19:23-41 we read of how the silversmiths feared a loss of income from their sale of idols by the rise of Christianity there.To really make the most out of this week's message (and this series) we encourage you to read Acts 19, the book of Ephesians and Revelation 2:1-7. It would take about 30 minutes, less then a podcast episode!, and will greatly enhance your understanding of the church in Ephesus, give insight into what they were facing, how God has been at work among them, and the means of maintaining Love and Devotion to Jesus – who is Worthy of it all.Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Revelation 2:1-7, with Acts 19 and Ephesians 1-6

In Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders, we see a model of faithful ministry marked by humility, perseverance, and a deep concern for the flock. This passage reminds us that Christian ministry is shaped by devotion to God's Word, care for His people, and a willingness to serve with sacrificial love.Time:MorningMinister:Rev. Daniel VenturaTexts:Acts 20:17–27Series:Acts: The Church on Fire

This Sunday, we step into one of the most personal moments in Acts.In Acts 20:17–38, Paul gives a final, heartfelt charge to the Ephesian leaders—calling them to live faithfully, speak boldly, and guard what matters most. It's a reminder that following Jesus shapes not just what we believe, but how we lead, live, and love.It's also a passage that asks something of us:Are we building something that will actually last?

Acts Series  Message: 36 Episode: 3 of 3 Broadcast: April 11, 2026 Key Verses: Acts 20:13-38 In this episode of Walk in Truth, Pastor Michael Lantz teaches through Acts 20:13–38 in a message titled "A Loving Shepherd's Charge to the Church." As Paul gives his heartfelt farewell to the Ephesian elders, he reflects on a life of humility, perseverance, and faithful ministry while urging church leaders and believers alike to guard the flock and remain anchored in God's truth. This powerful passage highlights the importance of spiritual leadership, sacrificial love, and staying vigilant against anything that would draw us away from Christ. Pastor Michael unpacks these timeless principles to encourage you to live with purpose and integrity, equipping you to walk through life as a Christian with wisdom and boldness, and helping you apply God's truth in practical ways to your everyday life. Welcome to Walk in Truth! These are the Bible teachings of Pastor Michael Lantz. Equipping you to reach out with God's truth to all people. And how to apply that truth to today's issues, trends, and culture.  Leave your question or comment contact@walkintruth.com

Title:An Admirable Church: A Brief Study of the Ephesian ChurchSpeaker: Nate HoldridgeLink to Sermon Notes:https://jesusfamous.com/blog/an-admirable-church-a-brief-study-of-the-ephesian-church/Link to Discussion Questions

Here is another probing sermon, profitable even when painful. Here is the Christ walking among the Ephesian church in Revelation 2, first of all perceiving their hearts and lives and concluding that while he knows their works he still has something against them. The Lord therefore issues a prescription, to remember from where they have fallen, and to repent. This leads to our Lord's persuasion, in which he issues both a threatening warning and a sweet promise. You can see that the intention is not at all to crush, but there is still a challenge to our souls in the first heading, as we are forced to face the possibility of declining love for Christ in our hearts. The prescription comes to us clearly and helpfully, in three yoked commands: remember, repent, and return. Again, this is not difficult to understand, but it is not necessarily easy to obey. Finally, Spurgeon presses in some motives with our Lord's persuasives, his warning and his promising, both designed to put us back in the way of love. To decline in love to Christ is the Christian's wasting disease; to grow in love for Christ is the Christian's foretaste of glory. So we are obliged to look into our own hearts, not in hopeless despair, but in order that we might, at Christ's direction and invitation, address any drifting away from him whom our souls love. Read the sermon here: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/loves-complaining Check out the new From the Heart of Spurgeon Book! British: https://amzn.to/48rV1OR American: https://amzn.to/48oHjft Connect with the Reading Spurgeon Community on Twitter! https://twitter.com/ReadingSpurgeon Sign up to get the weekly readings emailed to you: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts-1/from-the-heart-of-spurgeon. Check out other Media Gratiae podcasts at www.mediagratiae.org Download the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app

  Acts Series  Message: 36 Episode: 2 of 3 Broadcast: April 10, 2026 Key Verses: Acts 20:13-38 In this episode of Walk in Truth, Pastor Michael Lantz teaches through Acts 20:13–38 in a message titled "A Loving Shepherd's Charge to the Church." As Paul gives his heartfelt farewell to the Ephesian elders, he reflects on a life of humility, perseverance, and faithful ministry while urging church leaders and believers alike to guard the flock and remain anchored in God's truth. This powerful passage highlights the importance of spiritual leadership, sacrificial love, and staying vigilant against anything that would draw us away from Christ. Pastor Michael unpacks these timeless principles to encourage you to live with purpose and integrity, equipping you to walk through life as a Christian with wisdom and boldness, and helping you apply God's truth in practical ways to your everyday life. Welcome to Walk in Truth! These are the Bible teachings of Pastor Michael Lantz. Equipping you to reach out with God's truth to all people. And how to apply that truth to today's issues, trends, and culture.  Leave your question or comment contact@walkintruth.com

Daily Dose of Hope April 10, 2026   Scripture: Colossians 1   Prayer:  Holy God, We come before you today distracted and with scattered thoughts.  Help us focus, Lord, on you and your Word.  Help us, in the next few moments, to be silent, still, and remember that you are God...Thank you, Lord, for your care and concern for our lives.  Thank you for how you show up in amazing and unexpected ways!  We give you glory, Lord Jesus.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back, everyone, to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily reading plan.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters and today we begin Paul's letter to the Colossians.   The author of Colossians is Paul but he mentions that it is also from Timothy.  When Paul wrote this letter, the church at Colossae was facing threats from false teachers.  As we read this, we will find a clear theme: the centrality of Jesus Christ.  While details aren't known, there was apparently a movement within the town to remove Christ from the church.  Thus, Paul goes to great lengths in this short little book to describe the person and work of Jesus and what it means to live as a Christ-follower.  While Paul did not start the church at Colossae, he very much feels responsible for it.  Therefore, Paul writes this letter with much urgency from a Roman (or possibly Ephesian) prison cell.    Today's reading is chapter 1.   I would like to highlight verses 15-18, The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.  Here we see the emphasis on the identify of Jesus Christ. Notice how in the previous verses Paul speaks about Jesus as Savior, as the one who rescues and redeems us.  Now, Paul is speaking of Jesus as Lord.   This section is considered a hymn to Jesus Christ and it is rich in theology.  Jesus is the visible manifestation of God, God in human form; Jesus is God and nothing less. God's character can be seen in Jesus Christ.  Let that sink in. But there is more.  Jesus was present at creation and serves as Lord over all creation. He is supreme over all things.  Jesus is Lord and everything exists to reveal his glory.  Then, Jesus as creator and redeemer are brought together again.  Jesus, who is head over all creation is also head over the church, his body.  Obviously, Jesus existed without the church but the church cannot exist without Jesus.  The church is the visible body of Christ in this world but Jesus serves as the head of the church.  A body can't function or exist without a head.  The church cannot function or exist without Jesus.    It almost seems laughable to me that there was a movement within Colossae trying to remove Jesus from the church. A church can't be a church without Jesus. It's totally absurd. And yet, even as I write that, I realize that there are probably many churches in existence right now that basically function separate from Jesus.  Maybe they are religious social clubs or possibly political organizations but they aren't the body of Jesus.  This could have happened gradually and slowly.  After all, we live in a very distracted, self-reliant culture.  I have to admit, even the thought of this is so, so scary to me.  How can we ensure that Jesus stays central in all we do at New Hope?  Pray, friends.  Pray diligently and specifically that Jesus stays at the core of all we do.   We will chat again on Monday.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Here is another probing sermon, profitable even when painful. Here is the Christ walking among the Ephesian church in Revelation 2, first of all perceiving their hearts and lives and concluding that while he knows their works he still has something against them. The Lord therefore issues a prescription, to remember from where they have fallen, and to repent. This leads to our Lord's persuasion, in which he issues both a threatening warning and a sweet promise. You can see that the intention is not at all to crush, but there is still a challenge to our souls in the first heading, as we are forced to face the possibility of declining love for Christ in our hearts. The prescription comes to us clearly and helpfully, in three yoked commands: remember, repent, and return. Again, this is not difficult to understand, but it is not necessarily easy to obey. Finally, Spurgeon presses in some motives with our Lord's persuasives, his warning and his promising, both designed to put us back in the way of love. To decline in love to Christ is the Christian's wasting disease; to grow in love for Christ is the Christian's foretaste of glory. So we are obliged to look into our own hearts, not in hopeless despair, but in order that we might, at Christ's direction and invitation, address any drifting away from him whom our souls love.

Acts Series  Message: 36 Episode: 1 of 3 Broadcast: April 09, 2026 Key Verses: Acts 20:13-38 In this episode of Walk in Truth, Pastor Michael Lantz teaches through Acts 20:13–38 in a message titled "A Loving Shepherd's Charge to the Church." As Paul gives his heartfelt farewell to the Ephesian elders, he reflects on a life of humility, perseverance, and faithful ministry while urging church leaders and believers alike to guard the flock and remain anchored in God's truth. This powerful passage highlights the importance of spiritual leadership, sacrificial love, and staying vigilant against anything that would draw us away from Christ. Pastor Michael unpacks these timeless principles to encourage you to live with purpose and integrity, equipping you to walk through life as a Christian with wisdom and boldness, and helping you apply God's truth in practical ways to your everyday life. Welcome to Walk in Truth! These are the Bible teachings of Pastor Michael Lantz. Equipping you to reach out with God's truth to all people. And how to apply that truth to today's issues, trends, and culture.  Leave your question or comment contact@walkintruth.com

Keeping Our First Love: the Ephesian Church

Introduction: What Does God Want Me to See and Know This Easter? (Ephesians 1:15-23) The HOPE THAT IS FOUND in Belonging to Christ. (Eph 1:18a) The UNENDING RICHES THAT ARE AVAILABLE in Christ. (Eph 1:18b) The RESURRECTION POWER of Christ. (Eph 1:19-20a) The SIMPLICITY OF SUBMITTING TO THE KINGSHIP of Christ. (Eph 1:20b-23) Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Audio Transcript 00:00-00:05Please turn your Bibles to where Sydney just read, Ephesians chapter one, verses 15 through 23.00:06-00:10Ephesians chapter one, verses 15 through 23.00:12-00:16You know, kids are so easily distracted, aren't they?00:17-00:19Their kids, their heads are often in the clouds.00:20-00:22They're not thinking about what they should be thinking about.00:22-00:25They're not looking where they should be looking.00:25-00:28They don't know important things that they need to know.00:29-00:33I know this from first-hand experience with my own kids, Sam and Emmy.00:33-00:40Sam and Emmy are so easily distracted, and it can be so hard to get their attention.00:41-00:47Sometimes I physically have to put my hands on their faces to redirect their focus.00:47-00:49Why do I do that?00:49-00:55'Cause I want them to see something so that they will know something.00:56-01:02Sam makes a huge mess and he's not cleaning up despite my many pleas for him to clean it up.01:02-01:07I have to gently put my hands on his face to redirect him to the disaster zone.01:08-01:14I want him to see the mess so he will know that he needs to clean up the mess.01:15-01:21Emmy throws a temper tantrum about something completely unreasonable and she's not listening to reason.01:22-01:26I lovingly put my hands on her face to redirect her focus to my eyes.01:27-01:37I want her to see the seriousness of my face so that she will know that she needs to say sorry, she needs to ask for forgiveness, and stop her pouting.01:38-01:46My kids are so easily distracted, and they need parental reminders from their mom and dad.01:47-01:50But if we're honest, we're not much better than kids, are we?01:51-01:53You and I are easily distracted.01:54-01:58You and I do not think about what we should be thinking about.01:58-02:01You and I do not look where we should be looking.02:02-02:06You and I do not know important things that we need to know.02:07-02:15You and I need our Heavenly Father to lovingly grab a hold of our faces and redirect our focus.02:17-02:25You and I need to see and know important truths that God wants us to see and know.02:26-02:33You and I need to truly see Jesus Christ for who he is so that we can truly know him both now and forever.02:34-02:45You and I need to truly see what is expected of us in this book so that we will know what responsibilities we need to carry out from day to day.02:45-02:47We're at the end of our latest series.02:49-02:49Respect the office.02:50-02:53Jesus' roles determine my responsibilities.02:53-03:00Last Sunday, we saw that Jesus is the ultimate prophet who perfectly represents and speaks for his Father.03:01-03:10When you truly see Jesus as prophet, you know that you must listen and believe whatever he says.03:13-03:25This past Good Friday, Pastor Jeff showed us that Jesus is our great high priest who laid down his own life, who shed his own blood as a sacrifice for our sins on the cross.03:26-03:36When you see Jesus as priest, you know that you must confess your sin, you must repent of your sin, you must ask for forgiveness of your sin.03:38-03:51This morning we will see that Jesus Christ is the king of all, who is high above any ruler, any president, any CEO, any billionaire, and nothing and no one can compare to Jesus Christ.03:51-03:58And when you see Jesus as King, you know that you must obey whatever he says.04:00-04:10As is our custom at Harvest, please pray for me that I'll faithfully proclaim God's word, and I will pray for you that you will faithfully receive God's word.04:13-04:18Father, we come to you, And we thank you for what this day represents.04:20-04:27We thank you that because of your son, because of what he has done, we can have true hope.04:27-04:30We can have true life.04:31-04:36And if there are people in this room who do not have true life, may you seek and save the lost today.04:36-04:39May you bring the dead to life.04:39-04:42May you give faith where there previously was no faith.04:42-04:48And for the rest of us, Lord, may we be comforted, may we be encouraged, may we be challenged and built up by your word.04:48-04:52I thank you so much that you watch over your word to perform it.04:52-04:54Your word never returns to you empty.04:54-04:57It always accomplishes the purpose for which you sent it out.04:57-05:00And Lord, I trust you and we trust you this morning.05:00-05:03We ask that you would do a great and mighty work in all of our hearts.05:04-05:08We ask all these things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, amen.05:10-05:19In the original Greek, the apostle Paul writes, one long run-on sentence in Ephesians chapter one, verses three through 14.05:19-05:26Have you ever listened to a family member or friend who breathlessly tells you a story, they're really, really excited, they just wanna get it out?05:26-05:30That was me growing up, no one could understand any story I was telling growing up.05:31-05:33That is the Apostle Paul in this passage.05:33-05:40He is so blown away by who Christ is and what he has done for the Ephesian church.05:41-05:48He gives a huge list, they have been redeemed, they have been rescued, they have been adopted into the family of God.05:48-05:54They have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, and on and on the list goes.05:56-06:03In Ephesians chapter one, verse 15, Paul takes a deep breath, so he can go on for another run-on sentence.06:04-06:07So let's read the beginning of Paul's second run-on sentence.06:08-06:10In chapter one, verses 15 through 17.06:10-06:12of Ephesians.06:12-06:38He says, "For this reason, because I have heard "of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love "towards all the saints, I do not cease to give thanks "for you, remembering you in my prayers, "that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, "the Father of glory, may give you the spirit of wisdom "and of revelation and the knowledge of him." Paul isn't indifferent to the Ephesian church.06:39-06:40He isn't like, eh, whatever.06:41-06:46He has a deep love for these people because he ministered in Ephesus for years.06:46-06:50He personally led many of the Ephesians to Christ.06:51-06:55And since the day he left Ephesus, he has been receiving reports about them.06:55-06:56He's been checking in on them.06:56-07:01He's been hearing about their deep faith in Christ and their love for one another.07:03-07:13All that the Ephesians have been given in Christ and all they've been doing for Christ Paul to constantly give thanks and pray for them?07:15-07:16What is he praying for?07:17-07:19What is he asking for on their behalf?07:21-07:35Well he tells us in verses 17 through 18 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the spirit of wisdom and of revelation and the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know.07:38-07:39Let's stop there for a minute.07:39-07:41pick up the rest of Paul's thought very soon.07:42-07:44What is Paul's prayer for the Ephesians?07:45-07:48To see so that they will know.07:49-07:57To see important truths with the eyes of their hearts so that they will know these truths in their hearts for the rest of their lives.07:59-08:09The truths that Paul wants the Ephesians to see and know are the same exact truths that you need to see and know on April 5th, 2026.08:11-08:14Some of you are here because you really wanna be here.08:14-08:20You couldn't wait to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord with other brothers and sisters in Christ.08:21-08:23Others of you would rather be someplace else.08:24-08:26You're really hoping, I won't talk for too long.08:27-08:37You're really hoping that this service will be mercifully short so you can get back home, eat Easter lunch, hunt for some eggs, and pass out from a food comb on the couch.08:38-08:42And if that's you, I want you to hear a loud and clear message from me.08:42-08:44I am so glad that you're here.08:45-08:48I have been praying for you all week long.08:48-08:54I have been praying that you would see and know what God wants you to see and know.08:55-09:01Whether you are excited or unenthused to be here, you need to ask yourself one question this morning.09:02-09:06What does God want me to see and know this Easter?09:07-09:11What does God want me to see and know this Easter?09:12-09:15Number one, your outline, the hope that is found in belonging to Christ.09:16-09:19The hope that is found in belonging to Christ.09:22-09:26Let's return to Paul's thought that we left hanging a minute ago in verses 16 through 18.09:27-09:45He writes, "I do not cease to give thanks for you, "remembering you in my prayers, "that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, "the Father of glory, may give you the spirit of wisdom "and of revelation and the knowledge of him, "having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, "that you may know." What does he want them to see and know?09:46-09:50What is the hope to which he has called you?09:51-09:57Paul wants the Ephesians to see and know the hope that is found in belonging to Jesus.09:59-10:02Have you ever noticed that the hardest words to define are the simplest?10:04-10:06We use words like hope every single day.10:07-10:08But what does it actually mean?10:08-10:10What is hope?10:12-10:13There are actually two definitions for hope.10:14-10:18There is the worldly definition and there is the biblical definition.10:19-10:24There is the wrong definition and the right definition.10:25-10:30And your personal definition depends upon your status relationship with Christ.10:33-10:38If you do not love and follow Jesus, hope is only wishful thinking and nothing more.10:39-10:42Hope is crossing your fingers and wishing for the best.10:43-10:47Hope is knocking on wood and longing that nothing bad will happen to you.10:49-10:52You have no basis for this hope beyond your desire for it.10:54-10:57That kind of hope is no hope at all.10:59-11:09In the next chapter of Ephesians, Paul says that until you trust in Christ for salvation, you are without hope and you are without God in the world.11:11-11:16So that is the wrong and unbiblical definition of hope.11:17-11:21Let's talk about the right and biblical definition of hope.11:22-11:28According to God's word, hope is confident expectation in the character and plans of God.11:29-11:34Hope is confident expectation in the character and plans of God.11:34-11:48When you trust in Christ and belong to him, you have a confident expectation that every single one of your sins have been wiped away, have been paid for, that your past, present, and future offenses are no longer held against you.11:49-11:57When you trust in Christ and belong to him, You have a confident expectation that God will keep every single promise in this book.11:57-12:06When you trust in Christ and belong to him, you have a confident expectation that you are bound for heaven and not hell.12:09-12:13These hopes aren't maybes or mightbes that you're unsure of.12:13-12:16These are firm and fixed realities that cannot change.12:18-12:23If you're a true born-again believer in Christ, You have no need for wishful thinking.12:23-12:25You have no need for crossing your fingers.12:25-12:27You have no need for knocking on wood.12:28-12:37When you truly belong to Jesus Christ, you see that he is trustworthy, and you know that there is a 0% chance that he will fail you.12:40-12:43What does God want me to see and know this Easter?12:44-12:48Secondly, the unending riches that are available in Christ.12:49-12:53the unending riches that are available in Christ.12:57-13:07At the end of verse 18, Paul goes on to pray that the Ephesians would see and know what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints.13:08-13:14If I were to ask you to come up with your net worth off the top of your head, would you be able to do it?13:16-13:19Some of you uber savvy and prepared individuals exact number.13:20-13:25This would also be really easy for you teenagers and college students because your net worth is practically zero.13:26-13:27You own nothing really.13:28-13:30Others of us would need to sit down and crunch the numbers.13:31-13:33Subtract our debts, add our assets.13:35-13:39Do you realize that all of your assets will belong to someone else?13:40-13:43All of your stuff will be passed on.13:45-13:52Maybe you've already thought about the family heirlooms, the keepsakes that you wanna pass down to your kids, your grandkids, your friends, your relatives.13:52-13:57Maybe you've already been the beneficiary of a very small or a very big inheritance.13:59-14:01You inherited a house and all that came with it.14:02-14:06You inherited a decent chunk of money that you were not expecting.14:08-14:19No matter what you've inherited in the past or what you plan to pass down to others in the future, these things pale in comparison to the inheritance that God gives to his children.14:20-14:21I mean, think about it.14:21-14:22What is God's net worth?14:24-14:25It's limitless.14:25-14:26It's incalculable.14:26-14:28What does God own?14:30-14:32You are the first service, so I'll give you some grace.14:32-14:33Let's try that again.14:34-14:36What does God own?14:37-14:41So if you belong to him, what do you stand to gain?14:42-14:43Everything.14:45-14:46God isn't a cheapskate.14:47-14:53If you're a born again believer in Christ, God doesn't put you on a weekly allowance plan that is based on your performance.14:54-15:08God's not up in heaven thinking, "Well, I was gonna loosen the purse strings a bit more "and give Taylor more this week, "but he really let me down, he really failed me, "so too bad for him, maybe next week, if he behaves better." That is not how God operates at all.15:09-15:11He is unbelievably generous towards you.15:12-15:15He's unconditionally loving towards you.15:18-15:21I know what some Christians in this room and watching online are thinking right now.15:21-15:23Taylor, that sure sounds nice.15:25-15:26But that's not my experience.15:27-15:31You're saying that I have everything, but I feel like I have nothing.15:33-15:35Life isn't going very well for me right now.15:37-15:40I get that, and I felt that.15:41-15:43You may feel like you have nothing.15:44-15:47You may feel like you are running on empty.15:48-15:52You may feel like you have nothing left to give.15:53-15:59But I want you to see and know all that is available to you in Christ.16:00-16:04In Christ, you have unlimited access to God the Father in prayer.16:04-16:10You can come to him 24/7 to bring your request, your Thanksgiving just to talk to him.16:11-16:14You've been given the very word of God.16:14-16:18You can talk to God in prayer and God talks to you in his word.16:19-16:23You've been filled with the Holy Spirit who leads, guides, and comforts you.16:23-16:29You have a protective and older brother named Jesus who is constantly interceding for you in heaven.16:32-16:37As a pastor, I hear so many people tell me, I just want more of God.16:38-16:40I just want more of the Holy Spirit.16:40-16:42I just want more from God.16:43-16:48Listen, in Christ, you have been given everything that God has.16:49-16:50You have been given all of him.16:51-16:55God cannot give you more of himself because he's given you all of it.16:58-16:59Do you really believe that?17:01-17:03Do you really live like you believe that?17:05-17:07No gift has been reserved.17:07-17:09No blessing has been withheld.17:10-17:13No grace has been kept back from you.17:15-17:19Even if you are financially poor, you are spiritually rich.17:20-17:25Even if you feel empty, you have been filled with the fullness of God.17:27-17:31If the past 12 years, my wife and I have shared a joint bank account.17:31-17:41And whenever we open that account, For some reason, PNC Bank put her name in bold letters on the top of the checks and me in smaller letters underneath of hers.17:43-17:44I'm told that's not how it usually goes.17:44-17:45Am I right?17:46-17:47It's very emasculating.17:48-17:51I think PNC laughs at me every time they print those checks for us.17:52-17:53But here's the thing.17:54-17:56My checks clear just as well as Kate's does.17:58-18:03My card withdraws money out of our account just like Kate's card does.18:05-18:14I have unlimited access to a bank account with my wife, but I also have unlimited access to an even greater account.18:14-18:18I share the resources of someone even greater than my wife.18:18-18:21I share the infinite riches of an infinite God.18:22-18:31On our account, his name is huge and mine is teeny tiny small, but I still get to access those riches whenever I want to, whenever I need them.18:33-18:37And the same is true for you if you've been adopted into the family of God.18:38-18:48And the same can be true of you today if you let go of the unsatisfying garbage of this world to grab a hold of the infinitely satisfying treasures of heaven.18:51-18:56God wants you to see and know the riches that are available to you in Christ.18:58-19:01What does God want me to see and know this Easter?19:02-19:04Thirdly, the resurrection power of Christ.19:05-19:07The resurrection power of Christ.19:11-19:21In verse 19, Paul prays the Ephesians would see and know what is the immeasurable greatness of his, God's power towards us who believe.19:22-19:23Power.19:25-19:28Power is such a foreign concept to so many people.19:28-19:34Power is such a foreign concept to most people who fill churches Sunday after Sunday.19:34-19:38Most Christians feel so powerless.19:40-19:44They feel powerless to resist temptation so they give in without a fight.19:45-19:49They feel powerless to serve the church so they sit on the sidelines.19:50-19:54They feel powerless to share the gospel so they stay silent.19:55-20:03They feel powerless to be the husbands and wives they've been called to be, so they settle for being passive rather than active.20:04-20:09They feel powerless to be godly parents, so they make excuses.20:12-20:13How about you?20:15-20:17Do you feel powerless?20:20-20:22If you feel powerless, you're not alone.20:23-20:24I certainly feel that way.20:26-20:31I certainly feel that way as a homeowner because I am not a handyman whatsoever.20:32-20:39If there's something broken at your house, I wouldn't recommend calling me as your first, second, 20th, 100th option.20:40-20:45When something breaks at my house, I mostly feel powerless to address it.20:47-20:52Recently, the toilet paper roll holder ripped off our downstairs bathroom wall.20:52-20:56I wasn't surprised, it's the bathroom my kids use the most and they're not gentle with the toilet paper.20:57-21:00It's like they're on the Price is Right rolling down the toilet paper.21:05-21:10I walked into the bathroom, I assessed the damage and I'll be honest with you, I felt an initial wave of powerlessness.21:12-21:16And I thought, well, guess what's gonna be savages in keeping toilet paper on the bathroom sink from now on.21:18-21:22But then I thought to myself, wait a minute, I own a drill.21:23-21:24I own wall anchors.21:25-21:31I have a teeny tiny screwdriver set that can be used as teeny tiny screw that locks this toilet paper holder into place.21:33-21:38I realized that I already had all that I needed to fix this issue.21:40-21:41And guess what?21:41-21:42I did fix it.21:44-21:45Thank you.21:48-21:52The next time you come to my house, I'll show you the glories of the toilet paper holder.21:57-22:09Whenever you feel that initial wave of powerlessness as a Christian, remember that you already have all that you need to face the issue in front of you.22:10-22:13What you already have is far better than a cheap set of tools.22:14-22:17You have the very power of the God of the universe.22:19-22:24And Paul tells us in verses 19 through 20 what this power is truly capable of.22:24-22:38He says that he wants the Ephesians to see and know what is the immeasurable greatness of his power towards us who believe, according to the working of his great might, that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead.22:41-22:47The power of resurrection isn't just something that Jesus experienced and no one else will ever again.22:49-22:57The power of resurrection is something that everyone who trusts in Christ experiences right now.22:57-23:03It is something that you will experience for all of eternity if you've given your life over to him.23:04-23:07Please catch this because this is truly life-changing.23:08-23:20If you have trusted in Christ for salvation, that same power that brought him back from death and raised him from the grave 2,000 years ago resides within you.23:21-23:26That same power raised you from spiritual death and gave you new life.23:27-23:36That same power will enable you to share the gospel, not caring what anyone thinks about you, not worrying about what the response will be.23:37-23:43That same power will inspire you to not believe the lies and discouragement of the enemy.23:43-23:49That same power will motivate you to love your wife, respect your husband, serve your children.23:50-23:56That same power will equip you to use your spiritual gifts in the life of the church.23:58-24:01Yes, in and of yourself, you are powerless.24:02-24:14In and of yourself, you cannot do anything of value for anyone, but in Christ, you have access to the death-defying, life-giving power the God of the universe.24:14-24:19It is at your fingertips whenever you want it, whenever you need it.24:24-24:33Do not insult the sacrifice and resurrection of your Savior by believing that he has left you unequipped for the responsibilities you've been given.24:36-24:41At this point in the message, you may be thinking, wasn't this supposed to be about seeing and knowing Jesus as King?24:41-24:42when is that part gonna come up?24:44-24:47Well, I'm gonna take a page out of Pastor Jeff's preaching book.24:47-24:49Everything I've said so far has been the introduction.24:50-24:51Here's the actual sermon.24:52-24:53Don't worry, it'll be short, it won't be long.24:55-24:56Everything leading up to this has been the warmup.24:57-24:57Here's the main event.24:58-25:01What does God want me to see and know this Easter?25:02-25:06Finally, the simplicity of submitting to the kingship of Christ.25:08-25:11the simplicity of submitting to the kingship of Christ.25:17-25:23When you hear the gospel story, it's usually concluded with the resurrection of Jesus.25:25-25:26Usually goes like this.25:26-25:30Jesus, God himself, took on flesh and came to this earth.25:30-25:31He lived a perfect life.25:32-25:36He had a three year long ministry filled with miracles and sermons.25:36-25:41He was crucified in the tomb for three days, rose again, roll credits, the end.25:44-25:45Is that actually the end of the gospel story?25:47-25:57There is a major event that is missed, and that is the ascension of Christ, which is a fancy theological way of saying that Jesus went back to heaven.25:59-26:05Paul wants the Ephesians as well as you and I to see and know the importance of the ascension.26:06-26:26In verses 20 through 21, he says, the same power that raised Christ from the dead also seated him at the Father's right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and above every name that is named, not only in this age, but also in the one to come.26:28-26:33Through his crucifixion, Jesus is the Savior who destroys the power of death.26:34-26:39Through his resurrection, Jesus is the victor who destroys the power of death.26:41-26:48Through his ascension, Jesus is the king who defeats the power of those who challenge his rightful rule and authority.26:50-27:00Yes, Satan and the forces of darkness seem to be winning right now, but I promise you they have lost already because they cannot compete with the one who sits on heaven's throne.27:01-27:13Yes, people do and can resist the king right now, but one day, every knee will bow, every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.27:15-27:16You have two options.27:17-27:23You can willingly bow the knee right now, or you can be forced to bow in eternity.27:25-27:35You can joyfully proclaim that Jesus is your savior, your Lord in the present, or you can begrudgingly admit that you were wrong and he was right in the future.27:38-27:45No matter what you say, no matter what you do, you cannot change the reality of this universe's political situation.27:46-27:49Jesus Christ rules and reigns.27:50-27:55But your position, your side of this political reality can change.27:56-27:58Will you choose team pride?27:59-28:00The captain of that team is Satan.28:01-28:04Spoiler alert, that team is gonna lose big time.28:06-28:14There is team submission, and the captain of that team is Jesus Christ himself, who wins every single game in an absolute shutout.28:16-28:17What will you choose?28:19-28:22Will you resist, or will you submit?28:24-28:29Let's wrap up by reading more about the kingship of Jesus in verses 22 through 23.28:29-28:48Paul writes, "And he, God the Father, put all things under Christ's feet and gave him his head over all things of the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all." Jesus Christ is the head, the ruler, the boss, the king of the church.28:49-28:56He's in charge around here, not me, not Pastor Jeff, not Pastor Rich, not the elders, not you.28:56-28:59Jesus Christ is head over the church.28:59-29:03He is in charge of every true church across the face of this planet.29:04-29:11And the church should be a living example of what it looks like to submit to the kingship of Jesus.29:12-29:16The church should be on the front lines displaying the love of Christ.29:16-29:21The church should show a watching world what it looks like to obey the word of God.29:24-29:29How are most Christians doing at setting that example of submission in 2026?29:32-29:32Not the best.29:33-29:42Most professing Christians act like they know Jesus, but they live like they do not know Jesus.29:43-29:49Many professing Christians seem to care more about their own personal opinions than the authoritative word of God.29:50-29:58Most professing Christians seem to love themselves more than the lost, more than their fellow church members.30:00-30:04Do you profess to know Jesus, but make Jesus look bad?30:08-30:13Do you give others around you a totally inaccurate picture of what it looks like to submit to King Jesus?30:15-30:21If your answer to those questions is yes, it's time for repentance, it's time to change course.30:22-30:31Earlier I said that God can never give you more of himself and that's 100% true, but you can always give God more of yourself.30:32-30:34God withholds nothing from you.30:35-30:37What are you withholding from him?30:39-30:40Is it your finances?30:42-30:47Do you foolishly think that all the money in your account belongs to you when it actually belongs to God?30:48-30:49Is it your time?30:50-30:57You've been wasting the most precious gift you've been given, time, by spending it on yourself and no one else.30:59-31:00Is it social media and entertainment?31:01-31:06You're constantly consuming garbage, yet you act surprised that garbage comes out of your mouth?31:07-31:09Is it your status and reputation?31:10-31:16You care so much about what people think of you that you're willing to tear others down and lie your way to the top.31:17-31:22Listen, care about nothing and no one more than Jesus.31:24-31:26The Christian life is so simple.31:28-31:31Do you want me to share the not so secret secret of the Christian life?31:33-31:34Doesn't seem like you want it, no one said anything.31:35-31:38Do you want the not so secret secret to the Christian life?31:39-31:40All right, fine, I'll share it with you.31:41-31:43Just do what Jesus says.31:46-31:47Just do what Jesus says.31:48-31:50Obey his word.31:50-31:56Life is so much simpler when you submit to Jesus in every single way.31:56-32:00It's so complex to figure out other masters to follow.32:00-32:06It's so unsatisfying to be the boss of your own life 'cause if you are honest enough to admit it, you are clueless.32:07-32:08You have no idea what you're doing.32:09-32:10You have no idea what's going on.32:13-32:17Yes, the Christian life is simple, but it's also challenging, isn't it?32:18-32:24It is absolutely pride crushing to admit that you know nothing and Jesus knows everything.32:25-32:29It's humbling to acknowledge that he is in control and you are not.32:30-32:35It's difficult to follow Jesus, not cater to your own personal preferences.32:37-32:39I have to tell you, you will feel miserable.32:40-32:48You will feel directionless until you see and know that submitting to Jesus is the only way to lasting joy.32:50-32:52The worship team can now make their way forward.32:54-32:59Do you see and know that Jesus is the ultimate prophet?33:01-33:05He spoke the truth 2,000 years ago and he still speaks the truth to this day.33:06-33:10Do you see and know that Jesus is the high priest?33:10-33:17He laid down his own life, he shed his own blood on the cross to wash away your many sins.33:19-33:22Do you see and know that Jesus is the king of all?33:23-33:31He resurrected from the grave, he ascended to heaven where he sits at the Father's right hand, where he rules and reigns right now.33:32-33:37This position of prominence proves that He is God and you are not.33:38-33:45This position of prominence proves that He is a rightful claim over your life and you have none.33:47-33:52If your heart is still unyielded to Christ, if your knee is still unbowed, what are you waiting for?33:53-34:00There is no better time to obey Jesus' command to believe in Him than this very moment.34:02-34:06There is no better opportunity to trust in Jesus for salvation than right now.34:08-34:16There is no better day than Easter Sunday to draw your line in the sand and say, today is the day when I gave my life to Jesus.34:16-34:19Today is the day when everything changed for me.34:21-34:29If you turn from your sin and you place your faith in Jesus, the old you will die.34:30-34:33never to be seen or heard from again.34:34-34:43A new you will rise from the grave with Christ, and one day you will live with Christ forever and ever.34:45-34:51That is the ultimate truth that God wants you to see and know this Easter.34:52-34:53Let's pray.34:56-34:59Father, this amazing news often seems too good to be true.35:00-35:10How could a holy, perfect, all-powerful God care about weak people like us?35:11-35:15People who have rebelled against you, who've wanted nothing to do with you.35:16-35:34Lord, instead of just turning your back on us, instead of just consigning all of us to hell forever, You sent your one and only Son to become one of us, to live the perfect life we could never live, to die the death that we deserved to die.35:36-35:38Lord, let this news never become old to us.35:39-35:40May it never become normal.35:41-35:42May it always blow us away.35:43-35:49And Lord, I do lift up those of us in this room who are still resisting, who are still doubting.35:51-35:54God, I can't change anyone, but you can.35:56-35:57I know you can save.35:58-35:59I know you can bring the dead to life.35:59-36:02Lord, I ask you would do that this very moment.36:04-36:05Lord, we thank you for who you are.36:05-36:09We thank you for what you've done, and we thank you for all that you continue to do for us.36:10-36:13We ask all this in Jesus' name, amen. Small Group DiscussionRead Ephesians 1:15-23What was your big take-away from this passage / message?What is the difference between worldly hope and biblical hope?What are the riches and blessings that have been made available to you in Christ?What does it mean that you share in the resurrection power of Jesus? How should this truth change how you live from one day to the next?How are you failing to submit to the kingship of Christ right now?BreakoutPray for one another.

Pastor Mike Heard, reading from Paul's letter to the Ephesian church, reveals how important unity in the church is to God and how we can foster and maintain it.Follow on twitter - https://twitter.com/ImmanuelBibleNJFollow on facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ibcnj.org/For more information, please visit: https://ibcnj.org

Daily Dose of Hope March 31, 2026   Scripture: Ephesians 3   Prayer:  Almighty Father, Thank you for a new day and thank you that your mercies are new every single morning.  How grateful we are that we can start afresh and anew each day.  Forgive us for the many times we fell short, for when we weren't loving, for when we were easily angered, for when our patience wore thin. Today, help us represent you well.  In all things, may we be reminded who and whose we are.  We are yours.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Scripture reading plan.  We have been journeying through Paul's letters and we are currently in our seventh letter, the book of Ephesians.   Today's reading is Ephesians 3.  Paul starts out the chapter by talking about God's amazing plan for the Gentiles.  They are now co-heirs and equal members of the body of Christ.  They fully share in the promises of Jesus.  And this plan not only brings unity to Jesus' church, but it offers all Christ-followers the ability to access God confidently and directly.    We find a beautiful prayer in verses 16-19 that Paul offers for the people in the Ephesian church.  He starts by asking God to strengthen them by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Remember, Ephesus was a very pagan city.  The church there dealt with opposition on a daily basis.  Paul knew they needed supernatural strength.  The same could probably be said of us today.  The sources of our distractions and opposition are different but still powerful.  How do you personally need God's supernatural strength today?   Next, Paul prayed that they would be rooted in Jesus' love and understand how expansive and deep his love truly is for his people.  In understanding this, it would change how they interacted with one another and with the unbelieving world.  Having a solid understanding of God's extravagant love for us, we can extravagantly love others. Think about that...when we experience God's love so deeply, it's much easier to act in love toward others, even when they aren't very lovable. I've had to deal with some pretty unpleasant people over the past few months who I didn't feel like being loving toward. But then I read this verse and God quickly reminded me-he loved me when I wasn't so lovable. Because of his deep love for me, I can respond to others with love, period.    Finally, Paul prays that as they have this full understanding of God's love, they will be filled with the fullness of God.  What might it be like to be filled with the fullness of God? I'm not sure I've gotten there yet but I sure want to get there. It sounds like there could be nothing better!   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

In this study of Acts 20, David Antwi explores Paul's farewell address to the Ephesian elders, focusing on the essential task of "future-proofing" the church. Discover why a true Christian legacy is measured by what remains when a leader is gone, and learn how to prepare today's believers for tomorrow's challenges.

Daily Dose of Hope March 27, 2026   Scripture: Ephesians 1   Prayer:  Holy God, Thank you for this day and thank you for the ways you provide and care for us.  We rejoice in your powerful and mighty name.  As we read through the Scripture today and reflect on what it means for us, help us hear a new word from you.  Help us set aside the distractions of the day and really listen for your voice.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are working our way through Paul's New Testament letters, in chronological order.  Yesterday, we finished the book of Romans and today we begin our seventh pastoral letter, the book of Ephesians.   Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus is quite extraordinary!  The prose is both beautiful and powerful.  It speaks to who we are in Jesus, new life in Christ, and what we must now do about it.    The church at Ephesus, in modern-day Turkey, was established on Paul's second missionary journey.  On his third missionary journey, Paul spent 2-3 years in the city. He addressed false doctrines and pagan practices.  In his letter to the church of Ephesus, written roughly ten years later, Paul commends the Ephesian church on their faith and love. They have done well and we see that expressed in this letter.    There is a lot to say about this first chapter, but I want to focus on the middle portion. Paul states how he has heard of their faith and love, and he gives thanks for them and their dedication to Jesus.  He lifts them in prayer, specifically that they will know God even more and will be given supernatural wisdom and revelation.  While he is pleased with their spiritual maturity, he is still praying for them, that they continue to grow in holiness.  Paul wants them to truly have the knowledge of God, which can't be gained by study but only through God himself.    As I reread this, I couldn't help but think about how we are never done growing spiritually.  We never get to the point in our walk in which we can say, "That's it, I've made it, no more study, prayer, or service needed for me!"  If we aren't dead, we aren't done.  God isn't done with any of us yet.    One more thing I want to mention. Paul speaks of believers being marked by a seal.  In the ancient world, a seal was the personal sign of an owner who was sending something very important. It also indicated that what was received was genuine, in that it was truly from the person who it said it was from. The Jews thought of circumcision as a seal ,in that circumcision indicated they belonged to the one true God. In today's Scripture, the apostle Paul is saying that we as Christians are also marked with a seal, the seal of the Holy Spirit, which guarantees to whom we belong and that what we believe in true and genuine. In Christ, you are marked with the most important seal in the world! If you have said yes to Jesus, then the Holy Spirit has marked you. You are claimed. You can be assured that you are a child of God.    Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

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.

Pastor Bill Vecchio Jr.

Delve into Paul's profound farewell address to the Ephesian elders, where he reveals the essence of consecrated ministry: counting his life 'disposable' for Christ. Discover the courage to face trials, the power of a life lived for God's purpose, and the joy of finishing your course well.

Patrick welcomes listeners into raw, honest exchanges about faith and salvation, engaging callers as they wrestle with family struggles, religious divisions, and what Christ's teachings demand. Questions spark direct answers rooted in scripture and Catholic belief; Patrick confronts confusion about interfaith marriage, salvation outside the Church, and the lasting consequences of false doctrine. Urgent, reflective, and never afraid to challenge, Patrick presses forward with humility and boldness. Mary - We had a mass at my wedding, but my husband is a non-Catholic. Was that valid wedding? (01:24) Bobby - Will all non-Catholics go to hell or is there a Church law that rectifies this? I think being Jewish is ethnic for sure but also a choice not to believe in Christ. (10:22) Rick - It is possible that people can choose Christ in Purgatory? We need to stop arguing about what happens there. (21:18) Dave - I heard that only the soul who wants to be damned is damned. How does this correlate with the readings in the Bible? (36:00) Devin - I affirm that you are right about no salvation outside the Catholic Church. The Council of Florence backs this up. (41:06) Patrick in Ohio - How does Ephesian 4:14 fit into what you are saying? (42:53)

What is our approach to the things of God? Is it overly casual, or does it veer towards inappropriate pride? Do we fall prey to the syndrome of the Ephesian church where their temple pride overshadowed all else? Or instead, are we able to step back and see clearly that our faith is not about […] The post The Ephesus Syndrome appeared first on Rockpointe Community Church.

In this week's episode, Greg Locke's dark web of  satanist enemies forget to pay his parking tickets, Pope Bobby goes full jestermaxx and clowns hard on the looksmaxxing community, and Don will be here to put the “easy” in “Ephesian.”---To see us live in San Francisco, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/god-awful-movies-live-in-san-francisco-california-tickets-1976632374642To make a per episode donation at Patreon.com, click here: http://www.patreon.com/ScathingAtheistTo buy our book, click here: https://www.amazon.com/Outbreak-Crisis-Religion-Ruined-Pandemic/dp/B08L2HSVS8/If you see a news story you think we might be interested in, you can send it here: scathingnews@gmail.comTo check out our sister show, The Skepticrat, click here: https://audioboom.com/channel/the-skepticratTo check out our sister show's hot friend, God Awful Movies, click here: https://audioboom.com/channel/god-awful-moviesTo check out our half-sister show, Citation Needed, click here: http://citationpod.com/To check out our sister show's sister show, D and D minus, click here: https://danddminus.libsyn.com/Report instances of harassment or abuse connected to this show to the Creator Accountability Network here: https://creatoraccountabilitynetwork.org/---Headlines:Greg Locke claims mug shot and police report about his arrest are fake: https://julieroys.com/despite-police-record-and-mug-shot-greg-locke-denies-march-3-arrest/Indiana Abortion Law Halted for Violating Non-Christians' Rights: https://news.bloomberglaw.com/us-law-week/indiana-abortion-law-halted-for-violating-non-christians-rightsThe myth of evangelical persecution gets a new platform in the Washington Post: https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/the-myth-of-evangelical-persecutionGeorgia looks to close clergy sex abuse loophole: https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/georgia-is-finally-on-the-verge-ofTokyo High Court orders Unification Church to dissolve: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2026/03/04/japan/crime-legal/unification-church-ruling/Pope Bobby has thoughts about cosmetic surgery, looksmaxxing, AI, and cyber magic: https://www.allure.com/story/catholic-church-cosmetic-surgery---This Week in Misogyny:Share of female world leaders decreases 4%: https://www.unwomen.org/en/news-stories/press-release/2026/03/only-1-in-7-countries-is-led-by-a-woman-as-global-political-power-remains-dominated-by-menRight wing pastor urges women to model “joyful submission”: https://www.peoplefor.org/rightwingwatch/right-wing-pastor-dale-partridge-instructs-women-his-congregation-model-joyfulRight wing pastor claims abortion keeps aborting all the disease cures: https://www.peoplefor.org/rightwingwatch/right-wing-pastor-randy-caldwell-claims-abortion-aborted-cure-every-disease

One of the evidences of our having been adopted into God's family is that we pray. But what are we to actually pray about, and how? In Ephesians 3, Paul reveals his prayers for the Ephesian believers, providing a pattern for prayer that both encourages and challenges believers in all times. In this message, Alistair Begg examines Paul's entreaty, the generosity upon which it's based, and the glorious end toward which the apostle prays: that God will get all the glory He deserves. Bible passages: Ephesians 3:14-21

One of the evidences of our having been adopted into God's family is that we pray. But what are we to actually pray about, and how? In Ephesians 3, Paul reveals his prayers for the Ephesian believers, providing a pattern for prayer that both encourages and challenges believers in all times. In this message, Alistair Begg examines Paul's entreaty, the generosity upon which it's based, and the glorious end toward which the apostle prays: that God will get all the glory He deserves.

Enjoy this replay from March 1, 2026 with Senior Associate Leader Shane Harris. The Ephesian church experienced one of the most powerful revivals in scripture. Extraordinary miracles, public repentance, an entire region hearing the gospel in a few years. Paul poured three years into them and wept as he warned them about what was coming. Decades later, in Revelation 2, Jesus commends their hard work and sound doctrine, then says something that changes everything: "You have abandoned the love you had at first." In this message we trace the full arc of the Ephesian church, from revival fire to the sobering moment when Jesus reveals that getting it right and loving Him aren't always the same thing.

Paul continues to preach the good news of Jesus from city to city, and the Jews continue to be jealous of the attention he is getting by preaching Jesus. Riots ensue, often because Jewish leaders conspire to work up crowds against the apostles. Both Jews and Greeks come to faith in Christ, and new churches are planted. Finally, Paul says goodbye to the Ephesian church elders, knowing he will never see them again. Our passage begins where we last left Paul and Luke, as they are traveling through Phillipi and preaching the good news.Acts 16:16 – 1:13 . Acts 17 – 5:09 . Acts 18 – 11:25 . Acts 19 – 15:42 . Acts 20 – 22:48 . Proverbs 13 – 28:33 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In this message, Pastor Tony uses stories of Olympic legacies and Paul's farewell in Acts 20 to explore what it means to leave a lasting spiritual impact. Walking through Paul's example with the Ephesian church, he highlights a life marked by humility, clear teaching, perseverance through hardship, and deep love for others. Tony explains that a legacy is shaped over time through everyday faithfulness, not dramatic moments. He challenges listeners to consider who influenced their faith and who they are influencing now through their example, their words, and their care for others.Subscribe to AfterWords on  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the One More Series JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, Hezekiah Trevino reflects on Acts 20 and asks what it means to live a life that truly matters. Looking at the Apostle Paul's farewell to the Ephesian elders, he contrasts a purpose built on comfort, success, or self-fulfillment with one anchored in obedience to Jesus, even when it involves hardship. He explains that real stability comes not from protecting our own lives but from finishing the “race” Christ has set before us. The message closes by reminding listeners that purpose is grounded in God's grace, belonging, and identity—not in circumstances—and invites them to remember that through communion.Subscribe to AfterWords on  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the One More Series JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com