Podcasts about Ephesus

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-68849d3c772a1752e164ae96ad1cc02b{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-68849d3c772a1752e164ae96ad1cc02b .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-68849d3c772a1752e164ae96ad1cc02b .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 02 – December 29Revelation 2:1-7 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – December 29 Revelation 2:1-7 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/02-1229db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Revelation 2 Letter to the Church in Ephesus 1 To the messenger of the church in Ephesus write: The one who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven gold lampstands, says this: 2 I know your works, your [1] labor, and your patient endurance, and that you are not able to tolerate evil people. You have tested those who say they are apostles, but are not, and have found them to be liars. 3 Indeed, you do have patient endurance. You have endured hardships on account of my name and have not become weary. 4 But I have this against you: You have forsaken your first love. [2] 5 Remember, therefore, the state from which you have fallen! Repent and do the works you did at first. Otherwise I will come to you [3] and remove your lampstand from its place, if you do not repent. 6 But you do have this: You hate the actions of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. 7 Whoever has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious I will give the privilege to eat from the tree of life, which is in [4] the paradise of God. Footnotes Revelation 2:2 Some witnesses to the text omit your. Revelation 2:4 Or You have lost the love you had at first Revelation 2:5 A few witnesses to the text add quickly. Revelation 2:7 A few witnesses to the text add the middle of. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-bdcfe9de08060bf68e8e81dcafe29f78{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-bdcfe9de08060bf68e8e81dcafe29f78 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-bdcfe9de08060bf68e8e81dcafe29f78 .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 02 – December 28Revelation 1:9-20 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – December 28 Revelation 1:9-20 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/02-1228db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Revelation 1 God Tells John to Write Down What He Sees 9 I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingship and patient endurance in Jesus, [1] was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony about Jesus. [2] 10 I was in spirit on the Lord's Day, and I heard a loud voice behind me, like a trumpet, 11 saying, “Write what you see on a scroll and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.” Jesus Appears 12 I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me. When I turned, I saw seven gold lampstands, 13 and among the lampstands was one like a son of man. He was clothed with a robe that reached to his feet, and around his chest he wore a gold sash. 14 His head and his hair were white, like white wool or like snow. His eyes were like blazing flames. 15 His feet were like polished bronze being refined in a furnace. His voice was like the roar of many waters. 16 He held seven stars in his right hand. A sharp two-edged sword was coming out of his mouth. His face was shining as the sun shines in all its brightness. 17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet like a dead man. He placed his right hand on me and said, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last— 18 the Living One. I was dead and, see, I am alive forever and ever! I also hold the keys of death and hell. [3] 19 “So write what you have seen, both those things that are and those that will take place after this. 20 “The mystery of the seven stars, which you saw in my right hand, and the seven gold lampstands is this: The seven stars are the messengers of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.” Footnotes Revelation 1:9 Some witnesses to the text read Christ. Revelation 1:9 A few witnesses to the text add Christ. Revelation 1:18 Greek hades #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

In this episode, Marilyn Hickey walks us through Revelation Chapter Two, where Jesus speaks directly to the Church. Four churches—Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira—are addressed with honesty, love, correction, and promise. Jesus sees everything: faithfulness, suffering, compromise, and perseverance.The message is clear and timeless. Jesus calls believers to return to their first love, remain faithful under pressure, reject compromise, and walk in truth. Each letter ends with a promise to those who overcome, reminding us that obedience and endurance matter.Jaggy and Tedi are right here with us as we share this episode, reminding us that God's Word is meant to be passed along. Just as these messages were shared with the churches, we are encouraged to share this teaching with others—family, friends, and anyone who needs encouragement and truth.If this episode blesses you, please share it. God's Word still speaks, still corrects, and still restores hearts today.

Friends of the Rosary,Yesterday, we honored St. Stephen, who by his words and by laying down his life for his faith, bore witness to Christ. Today, December 27, we receive the testimony of John, Apostle and Evangelist (d. 101).The Church celebrates the Feast of this Galilean fisherman born in Bethsaida, son of Zebedee and Salome, and brother to St. James the Greater, who became the beloved disciple of Jesus.John and James were called by Jesus to be disciples as they were mending their nets by the Sea of Galilee.The pure and spiritual life of John kept him very close to Jesus and Mary, resting on the Master's breast at the Last Supper and being filled with divine wisdom.He wrote the fourth Gospel (about sixty-three years after the Ascension of Christ), three Epistles, and an excellent and mysterious Book of the Apocalypse or Revelation.John is the evangelist of the divinity and fraternal love of Christ. With James, his brother, and Simon Peter, he was one of the witnesses of the Transfiguration.He was permitted to witness His agony in the Garden. At the foot of the cross, Jesus entrusted His Mother to his care as He hung dying on the Cross.St. John was the only one of the Apostles who did not forsake the Savior in the hour of His Passion and Death.He was brought to Rome and, according to tradition, cast into a caldron of boiling oil by Emperor Domitian's order, but he was miraculously preserved unhurt. He was later exiled to the Island of Patmos, where he wrote the Apocalypse.In his extreme old age, he continued to visit the churches of Asia. Every time he preached, he said: "My dear children, love one another."St. John died in peace at about ninety-four years old at Ephesus in the hundredth year of the Christian era, or the sixty-sixth from the crucifixion of Christ.Ave MariaCome, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkNew Upgrade! Enhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠December 27, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Third Day in the Octave of Christmas19 And this he said, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had said this, he saith to him: Follow me.Hoc autem dixit significans qua morte clarificaturus esset Deum. Et cum hoc dixisset, dicit ei : Sequere me. 20 Peter turning about, saw that disciple whom Jesus loved following, who also leaned on his breast at supper, and said: Lord, who is he that shall betray thee?Conversus Petrus vidit illum discipulum, quem diligebat Jesus, sequentem, qui et recubuit in coena super pectus ejus, et dixit : Domine, quis est qui tradet te? 21 Him therefore when Peter had seen, he saith to Jesus: Lord, and what shall this man do?Hunc ergo cum vidisset Petrus, dixit Jesu : Domine, hic autem quid? 22 Jesus saith to him: So I will have him to remain till I come, what is it to thee? follow thou me.Dicit ei Jesus : Sic eum volo manere donec veniam, quid ad te? tu me sequere. 23 This saying therefore went abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die. And Jesus did not say to him: He should not die; but, So I will have him to remain till I come, what is it to thee?Exiit ergo sermo iste inter fratres quia discipulus ille non moritur. Et non dixit ei Jesus : Non moritur, sed : Sic eum volo manere donec veniam, quid ad te? 24 This is that disciple who giveth testimony of these things, and hath written these things; and we know that his testimony is true.Hic est discipulus ille qui testimonium perhibet de his, et scripsit haec : et scimus quia verum est testimonium ejus.St John is the virgin Apostle, crowned with the halo of those who knew how to conquer their flesh; for this reason, he became "the disciple whom Jesus loved." Thanks to his angelic purity, he imbibed that wholesome wisdom of which that Epistle of which the Mass speaks and which has given to him the halo of the Doctors. Finally he received the halo of the Martyrs, since he barely escaped a violent death. It is to St John, who wrote a Gospel, three Epistles, and the Apocalypse, that we owe the most beautiful pages on the Divinity on the Word made flesh, and it is for this reason that the virgin Apostle is symbolised by the eagle. His name is mentioned with the other Apostles' names in the Canon of the Mass. St John the Evangelist departed this life at Ephesus. (101).

A conversation on Acts 20:17-24. Learn why "all pastors are interim" and how Paul passed the torch to Ephesian elders for healthy church leadershipFor the study resources and manuscript go to messiahbible.org

In about 50 A.D., twenty years after Jesus Death Resurrection and Ascension Paul of Tarsus, one sent with authority by Jesus the Lord, to preach the Good News to the nations arrived in the City of Corinth, a prominent city of the Roman empire located on the trade route connecting the Aegean and Ionian seas. He immediately began announcing the Good News: "The Crucified Jesus is the True Lord of the world."  Those believing the message were shepherded into house churches.  Then Paul preached, taught and pastored in Corinth for 18 months before moving on to other cities of the empire. See Acts 18  In 53 A.D. Paul, now in Ephesus, receives letters from the Church at Corinth and from the household of a woman named Chloe, a leader in the church.  These letters revealed alarming divisions, cliques, sexual immorality, lawsuits against fellow members, abuse of the Lord's supper, unbelief in the resurrection of Jesus, and much more within the Corinthian church.  Making things worse, Paul was being mocked as a phony apostle by members of the church in Corinth.   Paul writes the 1st letter to Corinth from Ephesus in 53 A.D. to address the beliefs and behaviors of this charismatic, but grossly immature and divided church. Those today who seek to build "new creation" churches within the American empire will be blessed by this great letter.  We will make a special point of discerning in 1 Corinthians the character of wisdom and foolishness, freedom and license, as well as spiritual and childish. Come join us in this series of Podcasts on "Freedom and the Corinthians" as we "eat Corinthians" together, growing in maturity in Christ together.

As we start a new series on looking at the 7 churches in Revelation, today, we will just be looking at the church of Ephesus, also known as the same Church that Paul wrote to in his day; known as the book of “Ephesians.” So what does it mean to “forsake your first love?” Have I done that? Who are the Nicolaitans? What are the seven stars and the seven lamp stands? All great questions and I will do my best to explain them all clearly really excited to dive into the series with you guys

Study of the Book of Revelation

Send us a textStrong Women Strong WorldPriscilla | Part 7Senior Pastor Keith StewartAugust 10, 2025She's a teacher, leader and a valued coworker of the Apostle Paul. She is also the second most mentioned person in the writings of Paul (only Timothy has more mentions). Yet very few Christians know her story or why she matters. This Sunday, our series on strong women brings us to Priscilla____________Discussion Questions 1. Priscilla and Aquila were a couple who served God together and worked alongside each other in the tent making business. If you're married, how well would that arrangement work out between you and your spouse? Are there ways you presently serve God together? What is that like?2. Working regular jobs as tentmakers did not interfere with the calling of God on the Apostle Paul's life or that of Priscilla and Aquila. Yet so many today often view their work as unspiritual and an impediment to doing the work of God. How do we change the way we see our jobs and do our jobs so that it fits better with the plan of God for our life? How do I turn even the most mundane tasks into something meaningful for God? 3. It's obvious, based on how Luke inverts the names of this couple whenever they're mentioned in a ministry context, that Priscilla is the one who leads the way and is operating in her primary gifting. How do you respond when your spouse's gift outshines your own? What qualities would you expect to see in Aquila that allowed him to support his wife in her spiritual gifting?  4. Priscilla's example of teaching the gifted Apollos is one of the best repudiations of the idea that what Paul was saying in 1 Corinthians 14.34-35 and 1 Timothy 2.12 was an attempt to silence women and forbid them a role in teaching men (If you haven't listened to the first message in this series, it's imperative that you do so). Furthermore, that the churches in Corinth and Ephesus (where the Timothy passage is addressed) both started in Priscilla and Aquila's home, is another major hurdle in making these verses say women can't teach. Why is the example of Priscilla ignored? Glossed over? Or distorted? What did you learn today about Priscilla that stood out to you most? How does her example encourage you? 5. There is no question that Priscilla and Aquila were foundational in the establishment of the church especially among the Gentiles. Paul said so himself. They were a key presence in three of the churches that were most instrumental in spreading the gospel message. We'd love to know more than what we do about their lives and influence. But most of the work this couple did was out of the limelight and without extensive records. How content are you to serve in relative anonymity as Priscilla and Aquila did? What are you doing with your life right now that will outlast this life? 

Daily Dose of Hope December 22, 2025   Scripture - Acts 21:27-40   Prayer:  Dear God, We come to you today with sorrow.  We know that we are sinful and broken.  We know that we have fallen short.  We have been disobedient as individuals and as a church.  Lord, please forgive us and show us your better way.  How we need you.  We are lost without you and our behavior so often speaks to that.  Help us seek holiness.  Help us love others the way you love them.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, please help us set aside our scattered thoughts and focus on 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.  We have been on a journey, reading through the Gospels and the book of Acts.  Today, we finish with Acts 21.   It doesn't take long before people see Paul and get worked up.  Some Asian Jews, who saw Paul at the Temple, accuse him of bringing a Greek in the Temple (not true) and teaching people to not follow the law (again not true).  Who were these Asian Jews?  They were most likely from the province of Asia Minor (modern day Turkey) and quite possibly from Ephesus.  They could very well have remembered Paul from his extended stay in Ephesus and the various conflicts that arose.   It doesn't take long for a few rabble rousers to work up a riot.  Paul finds himself in the middle of it, being beaten by a mob.  When the Roman soldiers hear about the riot, they rush to figure out what's going on.  What's interesting is that they also make assumptions about Paul and have been bound, to be thrown in the barracks.  It seems no one really cares much for finding the truth.    The main charge brought against Paul was that he brought a Gentile into the Temple. This would be a serious offense. The Jews did not allow women or Gentiles into the central courts of the Temple, believing them to be unclean. Although the Law did not specifically forbid Gentiles from going into the Temple courts, by the first century, Herod the Great had expanded the Temple courts so that there was a large area where everyone was welcome, the Court of the Gentiles.    Despite the fact that the charge is false, no one comes to Paul's defense.  None of the Jewish believers, who must have seen the whole thing, say a word.  While this was out of fear, for sure, it is still surprising.  Silence, as we know, always empowers wrongdoers.   Let's talk about silence for a moment.  There is good silence, like being silent before the Lord, and then there is bad silence, like not standing up for what is right.  Bullies exist because the majority stays silent.  Martin Luther King, Jr., famously said, "In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends," emphasizing that friends' lack of support is deeply painful and is what enables injustice.  Unfortunately, we have seen this over centuries in the church.  We saw it with Jesus and the disciples.  We see it in the early church.  We saw it during the persecutions of the first several centuries and through many wars.  How many Christians stood in fear and watched the Nazis murder millions of helpless Jews?  How many Christians have been silent in the face of slavery, racism, and gross injustice across our own nation?   What are the main forces of injustice in our world right now?  Where has the church stood up and done the right thing and where have we been silent?  What about you?   More tomorrow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Study of the Book of Revelation

In Acts 20:17–38, Paul gathers the elders of the church in Ephesus for a deeply emotional farewell. As he reflects on their shared ministry, he reminds them of the whole counsel of God, calls them to repentance and faith, and entrusts them to shepherd God's church with vigilance and love. This sermon explores thankful sorrow, faithful leadership, and the hope-filled reality that God sovereignly guides our comings and goings—even through grief—for His glory and our good.

Explore Paul's pivotal encounters in Ephesus and the critical distinction between John's baptism and the empowering baptism of the Holy Spirit. This sermon clarifies what it means to be fully equipped for God's agenda, moving beyond initial belief to dynamic, Spirit-filled service.

2 Timothy 3 is basically Paul warning Timothy to stay away from teachers who don't teach truth. Paul left Timothy in Ephesus to correct false teachers who have come in wreaking havoc in the church there. They have taught doctrines that sound truthful but when someone falls for it, they realize they have been deceived and they are left picking up the pieces from the destruction. Paul tells Timothy the word of God, (he is referring to the Old Testament) is God breathed and will teach people the truth and how to live a life pleasing to God. Paul tells Timothy he must remain faithful to what he has been taught. That's some great advice for us today!

Study of the Book of Revelation

Daily Dose of Hope December 18, 2025   Scripture – Acts 20   Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, We are so grateful that your mercies are new every single morning.  No matter what our week has been like, we can come to you today afresh and anew.  Lord, forgive us for our many failings.  We want to do better.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, hear our prayers...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 getting close to finishing this reading plan after going through the Gospels and now the book of Acts.  Today, we walk through Acts 20.   We start with more of Paul's travels.  He stops by a number of the churches to encourage them but also has to take a number of circuitous routes to avoid those who wished him harm.  Paul relies so much on the Spirit here.  He knows where to go and when to go, based on where God is leading him.    At his stop in Troas, Paul spends a lot of time preaching.  I mean, he basically preaches all day and night.  One young man, Eutychus, nods off and then falls out of the third floor window and dies.  Paul sees this happen and rushes outside, grabs him, and through the power of Jesus, brings him back from the dead.  Then, Paul keeps on preaching.  Does not miss a beat.  Anyone who ever thinks I preach too long needs to read this passage.   Towards the end of the chapter, Paul is leaving the elders at the church of Ephesus, people he has worked and preached alongside for quite some time. These are people he has grown to love and who love him dearly. They are brothers and sisters in Christ. They are family. And they know they will never see one another again in this earthly life.   When I was traveling in Germany with my Doctorate cohort in 2018, I met a pretty extraordinary South African couple who dedicated their lives to witnessing to Syrian refugees in some of the most dangerous places on earth. Our little group shared, prayed, laughed, and cried with them. My own life journey is forever changed because of the one day I spent with them. I say all of that to make this point. As we left each other's company that day, we were sad because we knew that chances were we would never see each other again this side of heaven. But, we also rejoiced because we knew that we knew that we would spend eternity together.   I think about this as I read about Paul leaving his dear friends. They know that life circumstances will never allow them to be together again in this world. But friends, we aren't simply citizens of earth, we are citizens of heaven! Our time apart is short compared to the eternity we will spend together in heaven. I try to remember this when I officiate a funeral of a loved brother or sister in Christ. Yes, it is very painful to say good-bye. We miss them. But if we know Jesus, then it isn't really good-bye. It's simply "See ya later! Until we meet again!" The pain and sadness are real. We must acknowledge that. But we can trust that God will turn our mourning into dancing. Thank you, Jesus.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

You've Never Heard Mary's Story Told Like This - "Mary: Intimate Witness to God's Love Incarnate by Dr. Louis McCall"Mary is about the mother of Jesus and the arc of her development from a peasant teenager to an icon in the church, to a bold witness of the Gospel who journeys from Jerusalem to Samaria, to the mostly Gentile church in Antioch of Syria, and finally to Ephesus, a major metropolitan city of Asia Minor. This book tells the story of Mary in the style as a memoir while still being faithful to the canon of scripture in the hopes that women who seek to have their voices heard in a male-dominated society will find inspiration and strength. Also, all readers will gain a new appreciation for the challenges and fears of Mary, her own need for a savior, and her development into an eyewitness to God's love through his Son, Jesus Christ. Mary shows how one woman can start out simply and yet become a giant of faith and a model of womanhood.Louis McCall was born in Chicago, Illinois and attended Northwestern University where he received a Ph.D. Later, he also attended the National War College of the National Defense University. Louis was an Assistant Professor at the Ohio State University prior to a 36-year career in the U.S. Department of State, first as a Foreign Service officer and then as a foreign affairs Civil Service employee where he served as Consul General in Florence, Italy, Chargé d'Affaires in Brunei, U.S. Representative to the Republic of San Marino, and Assistant Inspector General. He lived in or worked in, at least temporarily, 60 countries on six continents. Whether in academia or as a diplomat, Louis found opportunities to live his faith, including part-time ministry of the good news in word and in song, including co-laboring with missionaries, national church leaders, and the underground church. When ministering early in his diplomatic career from the pulpit of a great church in Calcutta, India, Louis said to those in attendance that he had determined not to be ashamed of the gospel of Christ. That has been a commitment he has endeavored to keep over the years. In his final two years at the Department of State he organized and led the National Day of Prayer observances in the Department.Now, in his new career as an author, he has the pleasure of greater freedom in sharing what God has placed in his heart. Louis is active simultaneously in two churches in Washington, D.C. One is a multi-site non-denominational church, where he is an elder, and the other a Catholic church where he is a regular cantor, though not a Catholic himself. He has managed this with the blessing and full knowledge of pastors and priests. This has been an outgrowth of his early association with a mixed protestant-Catholic charismatic house-based worship group, his association with the late Mother Teresa of Calcutta, his Catholic charismatic wife, and guest ministry in churches and bible schools of various denominations while living in or working in other countries.AMAZONhttps://louismccallinternational.comhttps://www.kingpagespress.comhttp://www.bluefunkbroadcasting.com/root/twia/121825kpplm.mp3     

Daily Dose of Hope December 17, 2025   Scripture – Acts 19   Prayer:  Lord, We come to you today with humble hearts.  As we venture towards Christmas, help us think less of ourselves and more about others.  Help us focus more on you, and less on our own wants.  It is our inclination to complain and whine.  Forgive us, Lord.  We need you.  More of you and less of me.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We have been on a great journey of reading the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we are covering Acts 19.   Paul's extended time in Ephesus has obviously made a huge impact on the region.  Many people are coming to know Jesus, miracles are happening, and people are no longer participating in the local idol worship.  They aren't buying the trinkets!    Interestingly, the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus was considered, in its final form, to be one of the seven wonders of the world.  It was extraordinary feat of how human beings can create beautiful idols to try to replace the one true God.  If the worship of Artemis had been fulfilling and life-giving, then the Ephesian businessmen would have had nothing to worry about.  But the worship of idols, two thousand years ago and today, always leaves one feeling empty and wanting.   Paul preached the Word of God, taught about the salvation and abundant life that comes from walking with Jesus, and created a community of people who loved God and each other.  That was attractive to people who were desperate for something more.  I can't help but relate this same scenario to our society today.  What/Who are our modern Temples of Artemis?  Which idols have we sought after, leaving us feeling empty and wanting more from life?    Just a reminder: Jesus is still in the business of transforming hearts and lives!  Who in your life needs to know the abundant life that only comes from a living relationship with Jesus?  Who needs to experience a community of Christians who will love and accept them as they are?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

In continuation of our series on the 21 Ecumenical Church Councils, Justin Hibbard uncovers one of the most controversial councils - the Council of Vienne (Vienne, France… not Vienna, Austria). How did this council become a puppet of the French Monarch, begin the Avignon Papacy, and result in the unjust dissolution of the Knights Templar?SOCIAL LINKS* Follow Why Catholic on Instagram.* Subscribe to Why Catholic on YouTube.* Follow Justin on Facebook.SOURCES:* The Ecumenical Councils of the Catholic Church: A History by Joseph Kelly* The Council of Vienne - Papal Encyclicals Online* Second Council of Vienne - New Advent* Video: General Councils 10: Lyons I and Vienne - Fr Timothy Matkin - St Francis Dallas* Unam Santam - Pope Boniface VIII* The Types of Papal Documents and Weight of EachPREVIOUS EPISODES IN THIS SERIES* Episode 146: Introduction to the 21 Ecumenical Councils* Episode 147: The World that Led to the Council of Nicaea* Episode 148: The First Council of Nicaea (325)* Episode 149: From Nicaea to Constantinople* Episode 150: The First Council of Constantinople (381)* Episode 151: The Council of Ephesus (431)* Episode 152: The Council of Chalcedon (451)* Episode 153: The Second Council of Constantinople (553)* Episode 154: War Among the Monotheists* Episode 155: The Third Council of Constantinople (680-681)* Episode 156: The Second Council of Nicaea (787)* Episode 157: Reflections on the First Seven Ecumenical Councils* Episode 158: The Fourth Council of Constantinople (869-870)* Episode 159: The Great Schism* Episode 160: The First Lateran Council (1123)* Episode 161: The Second Lateran Council (1139)* Episode 162: The Third Lateran Council (1179)* Episode 163: The Fourth Lateran Council (1215)* Episode 164: The First Council of Lyon (1245)* Episode 165: The Second Council of Lyon (1274) Get full access to Why Catholic? at whycatholic.substack.com/subscribe

Episode Synopsis:When Paul left Ephesus to visit Corinth in what is known as the “painful visit,” he became the object of a personal attack from an unnamed party.  This was bad enough, but what made the matter worse was the fact that the Corinthians had done little if anything to support the apostle.  This forced Paul to send the so-called “severe letter,” the text of which is lost to us.  We may not have the letter, but we know the effects it had upon the congregation because they are explained to us in chapter 7 of 2 Corinthians.  In the severe letter, Paul called upon the Corinthians to discipline the party who attacked him and caused so much disruption in the Corinthian church.  It is also implied that he addressed the fact that some of the Corinthians were still engaging in practices which were not consistent with their profession of faith in Christ–sexual immorality and pagan idolatry.Paul was forced to wait for word from Corinth to learn of the letter's impact.  Apparently he was on pins and needles until Titus brought word of the letter's impact.  Titus's report gave Paul joy and comfort, especially when he learned that the letter brought about the desired result–“godly sorrow,” which he contrasts with “worldly sorrow.”  The latter is the disappointment of failing to attain worldly things, while the former produced a  sense of grief within the congregation that they had not done the right thing and needed to make things right.  As difficult as this was for all concerned, the “severe letter” led to the repentance of the Corinthians, which was the best possible result.  Once Paul learned of the outcome, there was a great sense of relief that the Corinthians stepped up and did what was required.  Therefore, when Titus brought news of this to Paul, both he and Paul were greatly comforted by this circumstance.  Paul is now able to boast both in Titus's work in Corinth, as well as in his own efforts in dealing with this issue.  He can boast that the Corinthians were doing the right thing as difficult as that was.  Paul had to confront the Corinthians–which required a painful visit and a severe letter.  But things have changed.  Now he can boast about them.For show notes and other recommended materials located at the Riddleblog as mentioned during the Blessed Hope Podcast, click here: https://www.kimriddlebarger.com/

Revelation 2:1-7 Geoff Brown December 14, 2025

These verses are vitallyimportant to the unity of the church, to the growth of the believer, and to thewitness of the church in the community. That's why we're taking so longcontinuing to look at this passage of Scripture. Remember the leaders of thechurch are told to lead and teach the people to grow in their Christianmaturity, to grow in faith, and to understand how that as a body of believersthat are diverse, that have different opinions, have different ideas, maybeeven different cultural backgrounds, that it is vitally important that they loveone another, and care for one another.  Readthe New Testament. Read the book of First John. Read all the Epistles. Almostall of them speak about this love for one another. Jesus, in His last words inthe upper room were that His disciples might be one. His prayer was that theywould be one (John 17). That they would be one in Christ, one in unity, one inlove, caring for one another. Then they would be a witness to the world aroundthem. That's why this passage in Ephesians 4 is so important. Now,one of the things that will happen whenever God's at work, you can rest assuredthat the devil is also at work and he has his angels, agents of false teachersto lead people astray. Today, my friend, the internet and churches are full offalse teachers who would cause people to follow after them with false doctrines.That's why Paul, Peter and others writers of the New Testament wrote aboutthese people. Even in the first century church, Jude wrote about them. John, warnedof them in his epistles of 1st and 2nd John. Almost everyNew Testament Apostle, teacher, leader warned about these false teachers. Evenhere in Ephesians 4, where Paul is saying to build up the people in the unityof the faith he goes on to say in verse 14 that we should “no longer bechildren tossed to and fro”. Tossed to and fro by what? Because we would be“carried about by every wind of doctrine by the trickery of men and cunningcraftiness of deceitful plotting”, by the false teachers. In Acts 20:28-31,Paul in his last visit to the church at Ephesus, warned the elders: “Thereforetake heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit hasmade you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with Hisown blood. For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come inamong you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up,speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves.  In2 Peter 2:1-3, Peter warned the believers he's writing to about these false teachers:“But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will befalse teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, evendenying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. Andmany will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth willbe blasphemed. By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words…”.  Like Paul, he is warning us not to be deceivedby false teachers with their false doctrine. Acharacteristic of a Christlike Christian is that he is not only bathed in thetruth, living in the truth, walking in the truth, but he is stable. He issteadfast. He's not tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. Everybody thatcomes along with some new teaching about this or that or especially about theLord Jesus Christ and who He is. My friend, you must be careful what you'relistening to and make sure you look at everything in light of the context ofthe entire word of God. Then listen to faithful teachers and preachers who havestayed the course over many many years. Again,these are very important words because the devil is at work to destroy theunity of the church with false teachers. We must be aware of them. They'reeverywhere. So be aware, don't be children about this danger. Grow up, listento the truth, and walk in the truth. 

In about 50 A.D., twenty years after Jesus Death Resurrection and Ascension Paul of Tarsus, one sent with authority by Jesus the Lord, to preach the Good News to the nations arrived in the City of Corinth, a prominent city of the Roman empire located on the trade route connecting the Aegean and Ionian seas. He immediately began announcing the Good News: "The Crucified Jesus is the True Lord of the world."  Those believing the message were shepherded into house churches.  Then Paul preached, taught and pastored in Corinth for 18 months before moving on to other cities of the empire. See Acts 18 In 53 A.D. Paul, now in Ephesus, receives letters from the Church at Corinth and from the household of a woman named Chloe, a leader in the church.  These letters revealed alarming divisions, cliques, sexual immorality, lawsuits against fellow members, abuse of the Lord's supper, unbelief in the resurrection of Jesus, and much more within the Corinthian church.  Making things worse, Paul was being mocked as a phony apostle by members of the church in Corinth. Paul writes the 1st letter to Corinth from Ephesus in 53 A.D. to address the beliefs and behaviors of this charismatic, but grossly immature and divided church. Those today who seek to build "new creation" churches within the American empire will be blessed by this great letter.  We will make a special point of discerning in 1 Corinthians the character of wisdom and foolishness, freedom and license, as well as spiritual and childish. Come join us in this series of Podcasts on "Freedom and the Corinthians" as we "eat Corinthians" together, growing in maturity in Christ together.

Wednesday December 10, 2025II Week of AdventToday's Advent Reading:Amos 8:1–4; Revelation 1:17–2:7; Matthew 23:1–12**In **Amos 8:1–4**, the vision of ripe fruit reveals a people who had reached a critical moment. God exposes injustice, complacency, and hearts hardened toward the poor. Advent reminds us that waiting for the Lord also means examining our lives—asking where repentance and renewal are needed.In **Revelation 1:17–2:7**, John falls at the feet of the risen Christ, overwhelmed by His glory. Jesus comforts him—*“Do not be afraid”*—and then speaks to the church in Ephesus, commending their perseverance but calling them back to their first love. Advent invites us not just to endure in faith, but to **love deeply and passionately once again**.In **Matthew 23:1–12**, Jesus warns against religious pride and self-promotion. True greatness in God's kingdom is found in humility and service, not titles or recognition. Advent reshapes our ambitions, teaching us to prepare for the King by becoming servants.Together, today's readings call us to honest repentance, renewed love for Christ, and humble devotion as we await His coming.The King is near—let our hearts be ready.

Send me a Text Message!The Church of Ephesus was an amazing church! By every standard that we judge churches by today, it was the cream of the crop. But Jesus said something's missing. I have this against you; you have neglected, abandoned, drifted away  from, become indifferent to your first love. Passion for the person of Jesus had been diverted into passion for the projects of Jesus. Activity substituted for adoration. Hard work left no time for heart-work. But Jesus is looking for first-love followers. First in time, first in rank, before the church can be an army for theKingdom, it must be a bride for the King.  So here's his question, "Have you left your first love?"

It's the end of the Great Schism between the Western Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church! Well… sort of. Justin Hibbard continues our series on the Catholic Church's 14th ecumenical council - the Second council of Lyon, where Pope Gregory X tackled ending the Great Schism, the crusades, papal election reform, and a few other reforms. SOCIAL LINKS* Follow Why Catholic on Instagram.* Subscribe to Why Catholic on YouTube.* Follow Justin on Facebook.SOURCES:* The Ecumenical Councils of the Catholic Church: A History by Joseph Kelly* The Second Council of Lyons. - Papal Encyclicals Online* Second Council of Lyons - New Advent* Episode #114 - The History of Papal Elections* Episode #63 - Not All Catholics are Roman CatholicPREVIOUS EPISODES IN THIS SERIES* Episode 146: Introduction to the 21 Ecumenical Councils* Episode 147: The World that Led to the Council of Nicaea* Episode 148: The First Council of Nicaea (325)* Episode 149: From Nicaea to Constantinople* Episode 150: The First Council of Constantinople (381)* Episode 151: The Council of Ephesus (431)* Episode 152: The Council of Chalcedon (451)* Episode 153: The Second Council of Constantinople (553)* Episode 154: War Among the Monotheists* Episode 155: The Third Council of Constantinople (680-681)* Episode 156: The Second Council of Nicaea (787)* Episode 157: Reflections on the First Seven Ecumenical Councils* Episode 158: The Fourth Council of Constantinople (869-870)* Episode 159: The Great Schism* Episode 160: The First Lateran Council (1123)* Episode 161: The Second Lateran Council (1139)* Episode 162: The Third Lateran Council (1179)* Episode 163: The Fourth Lateran Council (1215)* Episode 164: The First Council of Lyon (1245) Get full access to Why Catholic? at whycatholic.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Illuminated Woman, we're diving deep into 1 Timothy chapters 1–3 — and what they reveal about living a sincere, Spirit-led life in a culture obsessed with visibility, influence, and spiritual performance. Whether you've had a platform or simply lead in your home, this message is for the woman who longs to walk in quiet strength, spiritual maturity, and God-honoring purpose.I share how the Apostle Paul's letter to Timothy speaks to modern women navigating curated social media feeds, charismatic false teachers, and the confusion of “truths” offered by New Age and self-help movements. We explore modesty, character, reverence, and why God's design for women isn't outdated — it's a call to something deeper, freer, and more beautiful.If you've ever felt unseen, misunderstood, or unsure where you fit in the church… or if you've been disillusioned by loud voices that lacked love — this episode will meet you right where you are and remind you that sincere faith still matters.What you'll learn in this episode:Why sound doctrine is an act of loveWhat modesty truly means (hint: it's about the posture of your heart, not just your clothing)The seductive influence of the Artemis cult in Ephesus — and its eerie parallels with modern-day feminine “spirituality”Why “good works” don't earn you salvation but reveal who you're walking withWhat Biblical leadership really looks like — even if you're never on a stageHow sincere women are the backbone of the church — not just the ones with microphonesWhy intercession matters and how to stand in the gap through prayerA redemptive reframing of passages often used to silence or shame women*Note* I misspoke at one point. I referenced 1 Timothy 3:13 when I meant to reference 1 Timothy 3:15. The Illuminated Connection Call is a free conversation where we talk heart to heart—no pressure, no agenda. I'd love to hear what's on your heart, where you are in your life and spiritual journey, and what you're sensing God may be stirring in you. Whether you're just beginning to question the New Age path, exploring Biblical truth, are already living a God-led life, or simply feeling lost and unsure—this space is for you. Schedule through this link.

Join us as we interview Dr. Sandra Glahn, professor at the Dallas Theological Seminary, about her wonderful book, Nobody's Mother: Artemis of the Ephesians in Antiquity and the New Testament.  Nobody's Mother is a scholarly re-examination of the cult of Artemis of Ephesus and the cultural world surrounding early Christianity—especially the world behind 1 Timothy 2, a New Testament passage long used to restrict women's leadership. Were the Apostle Paul's writings in 1 Timothy 2 a response to the nature and power of the cult of Artemis?  Tune in as we explore this fascinating topic.Sean Marlon Newcombe hosts.

2 Timothy is the second of two letters written by the Apostle Paul to Timothy, a young pastor and leader at a growing church in Ephesus. This letter is filled with lessons and tools that apply to every believer and to pastors alike, and has been used for centuries to guide the lives of believers and ministries.   Join Jerry as he dives into 2 Timothy, helping us see how we can apply this book, and to "fight the good fight of faith" today.   You can take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann—so grab your Bible and let's get started!   LINKS:  « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/  « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/

Apocalypse Now: An Eye-Opening Study of the Book of EphesiansWhat if the greatest revelation wasn't about the end of the world, but the unveiling of a new one? Apocalypse Now is a deep and eye-opening journey through the book of Ephesians, where the Apostle Paul—writing from prison—pulls back the curtain on God's grand design for His people.Set against the backdrop of ancient Ephesus, a city of power, culture, and spiritual darkness, this series explores how Paul's letter reveals Jesus as Lord over every empire, idol, and authority. Known as the “Queen of the Epistles,” Ephesians lifts our eyes to the breathtaking view of Christ and His Church—our identity, our unity, our calling, and our hope.Each episode uncovers the “apocalypse”—the great unveiling of Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and the Spirit's gifts—and asks how this revelation reshapes the way we live right now. From household relationships to spiritual warfare, from ancient temples to modern challenges, Apocalypse Now helps us see with fresh eyes what it means to belong to God's family and live as people of another Kingdom.If you're ready for a faith that feels alive, courageous, and countercultural—this is your invitation. We don't just need an apocalypse someday. We need one now.For more information or to get connected, visit us at  ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.rcnb.org

There is so much confusion over Paul's instructions about women in 1 Timothy 2:11-15. By examining the cultural and religious context of Ephesus, we can get a broader picture of what he had been trying to say. Culturally, Paul was addressing specific problems arising from the collision between Jewish synagogue practices, pagan Artemis worship, and early Christian communities. The passage about women being "saved through childbearing" is most likely a targeted response to former Artemis worshippers who needed proper theological education and assurance that Jesus, not Artemis (the goddess of midwifery), would protect them in childbirth. WATCH FULL SERVICE ON YOUTUBE DOWNLOAD PDF SERMON NOTES HERE

Today on Nephilim Death Squad, we're joined again by Jamie Dyer—researcher, author, and co-host of Jay's Analysis—for a deep dive into the Cults of the First Century and how ancient goddess worship, mystery religions, Rome, Babylon, and early Christian persecution mirror exactly what we're seeing in culture today.We cover:

Antony's Political Error and the Path to Civil War: Colleague Barry Strauss recounts that Antony commits a major political error by divorcing Octavia, allowing Octavian to frame the conflict as a defense of Roman values against a foreign queen; despite internal objections, Cleopatra remains with the fleet at Ephesus, cementing the inevitability of civil war between the factions.

2 Timothy is the second of two letters written by the Apostle Paul to Timothy, a young pastor and leader at a growing church in Ephesus. This letter is filled with lessons and tools that apply to every believer and to pastors alike, and has been used for centuries to guide the lives of believers and ministries.   Join Jerry as he dives into 2 Timothy, helping us see how we can apply this book, and to "fight the good fight of faith" today.   You can take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann—so grab your Bible and let's get started!  -------  Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below:  « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/  « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/

FBC Missions Document: Why: Missions is the church's God-glorifying, Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered task of making disciples and planting churches among all the peoples of the earth. Psalm 67:1-7 God be merciful to us and bless us, And cause His face to shine upon us, Selah. 2 That Your way may be known on earth, Your salvation among all nations. 3 Let the peoples praise You, O God; Let all the peoples praise You. 4 Oh, let the nations be glad and sing for joy! For You shall judge the people righteously, And govern the nations on earth. 5 Let the peoples praise You, O God; Let all the peoples praise You. 6 Then the earth shall yield her increase; God, our own God, shall bless us. 7 God shall bless us, And all the ends of the earth shall fear Him. Revelation 5:9 9 And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll, And to open its seals; For You were slain, And have redeemed us to God by Your blood Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, 10 And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth.” 11 Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne, the living creatures, and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands, 12 saying with a loud voice: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing!” John Piper: Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Missions exists because worship doesn't. Worship is ultimate, not missions, because God is ultimate, not man. When this age is over and the countless millions of the redeemed fall on their faces before the throne of God, missions will be no more. It is a temporary necessity. But worship abides forever. Worship, therefore, is the fuel and goal of missions. It's the goal of missions because in missions we simply aim to bring the nations into the white hot enjoyment of God's glory. How: Missions at FBC is accomplished through sharing the gospel, supporting disciple-making, supplicating in prayer, supplying needs, and sending commissioned pastors and missionaries. Sharing the gospel. 2 Cor. 5:19-21 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Mt. 28:18-20 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Supporting Disciple-Making. Acts 15:36 36 And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” Acts 14:21-22 21 When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God I Thes. 3:1-10 Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, 2 and we sent Timothy, our brother and God's coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith,… 5 For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain. 6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you— 7 for this reason, brothers, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith. 8 For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord. 9 For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, 10 as we pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith? Acts 28:11-15 11 After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island. 12 And landing at Syracuse, we stayed three days. 13 From there we circled round and reached Rhegium. And after one day the south wind blew; and the next day we came to Puteoli, 14 where we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them seven days. And so we went toward Rome. 15 And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage. 2 Tim. 1:15-18 15 This you know, that all those in Asia have turned away from me, among whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes. 16 The Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain; 17 but when he arrived in Rome, he sought me out very zealously and found me. 18 The Lord grant to him that he may find mercy from the Lord in that Day—and you know very well how many ways he ministered to me at Ephesus. Supplicating in Prayer. Luke 11:2 2 So He said to them, “When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Eph. 6:18-20 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. Supplying Resources. 2 Cor. 9:5-10 10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. 12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. 13 By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, 14 while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. 3 John v. 5 5 Beloved, it is a faithful thing you do in all your efforts for these brothers, strangers as they are, 6 who testified to your love before the church. You will do well to send them on their journey in a manner worthy of God. 7 For they have gone out for the sake of the name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles. 8 Therefore we ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the truth. Phil. 4:14 14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. Sending Commissioned Pastors and Missionaries. Rom. 15: 19-21 so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ; 20 and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation, 21 but as it is written, “Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand.” Acts 13:1-3 Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.

Fr. Mike emphasizes the power of the Holy Spirit exemplified in Paul's interaction with those in Ephesus in Acts 19 and reminds us that God wants to fill each of us with the same Holy Spirit so we can walk in his strength. Fr. Mike also highlights the power of sacramentals, the reality of demons acknowledging Jesus, and the importance of removing things in our lives that are harmful. Lastly, as we begin reading the Second Letter of Paul to the Corinthians, we get a glimpse of Paul's heart for the people of Corinth. Today's readings are Acts 19, 2 Corinthians 1-2, and Proverbs 28:22-24. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

By Aaron Creech - In the book of Revelation, we see letters written to the seven churches located in Asian Minor or modern day Turkey. In this new sermon series, we are going to begin by examining the letter written to the church of Ephesus, the church that has lost its first love

2 Timothy is the second of two letters written by the Apostle Paul to Timothy, a young pastor and leader at a growing church in Ephesus. This letter is filled with lessons and tools that apply to every believer and to pastors alike, and has been used for centuries to guide the lives of believers and ministries.   Join Jerry as he dives into 2 Timothy, helping us see how we can apply this book, and to "fight the good fight of faith" today.   You can take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann—so grab your Bible and let's get started!  -------  Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below:  « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/  « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)YouTube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comRevelation 2 Jesus sends messages to the first four churches in Asia: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira. To Ephesus, He praises their hard work and endurance but warns them that they have lost their first love and urges them to return to it. To Smyrna, He encourages them to stay faithful despite suffering and promises the crown of life. To Pergamum, He acknowledges their loyalty but rebukes their tolerance of false teachings and calls them to repentance. To Thyatira, He commends their love and service but condemns their acceptance of corrupt and immoral influences within the church. Each message includes spiritual and eternal promises to those who overcome. The Son of God reveals that He sees every action, knows every heart, and calls His people to holiness, truth, and perseverance through trials.  Jesus knows our actions, struggles, and hearts, as individuals and as local churches. He sees both our strengths and weaknesses. We are called to remain faithful during trials, to hold onto the truth, and to reject anything that pulls us away from Him. When our love grows cold or when we tolerate sin, Jesus does not stay silent. He corrects us because He desires what is pure and lasting within us. We are reminded that faithfulness matters, even in small things. Jesus walks among His people and speaks with authority. We must listen, repent where necessary, and press on with courage. If we overcome through Him, He promises us a place in His kingdom and eternal life. Let's follow Him together.  Gracious Lord, You have spoken through Your Son to the churches, calling us to faithfulness, love, and truth. You see our hearts, our deeds, and our struggles. When we grow cold in our love, stir us to return. When we face suffering, give us strength to endure. When false teaching surrounds us, help us hold firmly to the truth of Christ. Let His presence among us be our hope and our guide. Shape our lives to reflect His authority and holiness. May we listen to His words, repent where needed, and remain faithful until the end. Help us overcome through Him.  Thought Questions: What does it mean that the church in Ephesus left its first love? How can churches be strong in truth but also equally robust in love?  What are the promises Christ makes to those who overcome? Are they amazing enough to promote faithfulness until death in Jesus' name? Sadly, idolatry and immorality were threats to local churches in John's time. Why is it important to directly address them in our fellowship?

Paul encounters disciples who were unaware of Jesus and the Holy Spirit, baptizing them and witnessing the Holy Spirit's manifestation. The apostle's two-year ministry in Ephesus leads to widespread conversion, impacting the city's economy and religious practices. Then, Demetrius, a silversmith idol maker incites a riot against Paul and the Christians, who are threatening the worship of Artemis. The story highlights the transformative power of the Gospel, the clash between Christianity and idolatry, and the economic implications of spiritual conversion.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @biblelitTwitter: @bible_litFacebook: @biblelitEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.org Want to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out ou...

2 Timothy is the second of two letters written by the Apostle Paul to Timothy, a young pastor and leader at a growing church in Ephesus. This letter is filled with lessons and tools that apply to every believer and to pastors alike, and has been used for centuries to guide the lives of believers and ministries.   Join Jerry as he dives into 2 Timothy, helping us see how we can apply this book, and to "fight the good fight of faith" today.   You can take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann—so grab your Bible and let's get started!  -------  Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below:  « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/  « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/

Don't miss Part 3 of Pastor Brenda's dynamic series on the Seven Churches of Revelation! This session is packed with revelation, clarity, and powerful teaching you'll want to hear!

1 Timothy is the first of two letters written by the Apostle Paul to Timothy, a young pastor and leader at a growing church in Ephesus. This letter is filled with lessons and tools that apply to every believer and to pastors alike, and has been used for centuries to guide the lives of believers and ministries.   Join Jerry as he dives into 1 Timothy, helping us see how we can apply this book, and to "fight the good fight of faith" today.   You can take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann—so grab your Bible and let's get started!  Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below:  « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/  « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/

In this episode, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran continue the series on the five sins that wound the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Today they reflect on the blasphemies spoken against Mary's Divine Motherhood, a truth defended by the early Church and proclaimed at the Council of Ephesus. Barb and Katie explain why Mary is rightly called Mother of God, how this dogma protects the truth about Christ's identity, and why denying her Divine Motherhood impacts our understanding of her mission and our faith. They also discuss the roots of this teaching, the Nestorian heresy, and the spiritual importance of honoring Mary as both the Mother of Jesus and our spiritual mother. As always, they connect these teachings to the First Saturday devotion and the call to offer reparation through prayer and love. Watch out for Episode 4, where Barb and Katie continue the series with the next sin against the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

1 Timothy is the first of two letters written by the Apostle Paul to Timothy, a young pastor and leader at a growing church in Ephesus. This letter is filled with lessons and tools that apply to every believer and to pastors alike, and has been used for centuries to guide the lives of believers and ministries.   Join Jerry as he dives into 1 Timothy, helping us see how we can apply this book, and to "fight the good fight of faith" today.   You can take your daily Bible reading to another level with The New Testament Daily with Jerry Dirmann—so grab your Bible and let's get started!  Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below:  « FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » To listen to or download more teachings from Jerry and others from Solid Lives ministries, visit our new media library at: https://app.jesusdisciple.com/jesus-way/media-library « THE NEW TESTAMENT DAILY PODCAST » https://thenewtestamentdailywithjerrydirmann.buzzsprout.com « SOLID LIVES » Find out more about the ministries of Jerry Dirmann and Solid Lives at https://www.solidlives.com/  « SUPPORT » You can help us get free resources like this out to more people. Visit https://pushpay.com/g/jdglobal  Thank you for joining us today! For more resources like this, or to support the ministry of Solid Lives, visit one of the links below: FREE MEDIA LIBRARY » Download or listen at https://SolidLivesMedia.com/ ABOUT SOLID LIVES » Find out more at https://www.solidlives.com/ SUPPORT » Help us get the word out at https://solidlives.com/give/

Narrator: Thomas Jones

In this Bible Story, Paul says goodbye to the Ephesian church. He knows that danger awaits him in Jerusalem. The threat of danger and death is present, but Paul is determined to preach the gospel to his kin. So with great tears, Paul leaves Ephesus to Jerusalem. This story is inspired by Acts 20:1-21:17. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Acts 20:35 from the King James Version.Episode 236: As Paul was teaching late into the night, a young man Eutychus seated on the ledge of a third-story window, fell asleep and fell to the ground. The fall killed poor Eutychus, but God had a plan for him and used Paul to speak healing over the boy, and life was restored to him. As Paul and Luke traveled along the Asian sea teaching, his mind was constantly turned toward Ephesus. At last, he decided to visit them one last time before going to Jerusalem where he would be beaten and brought before the courts.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, Paul establishes the church of Ephesus. The Ephesians become very close to Paul, and they all minister alongside one another like family. Together they heal, preach, and protect each other from sin. This story is inspired by Acts 19. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Acts 19:17 from the King James Version.Episode 235: From Corinth, Paul and his team journeyed to Ephesus. As he entered the city he found some disciples of Jesus and taught them about The Holy Spirit, Baptism, and the mission of Jesus. Paul and these twelve men worked and taught in the city for two years and God did wonderful miracles through Paul. But when some Jewish exorcists tried to copy Paul, they were stripped, beaten, and cast out by the demon-possessed man. After this, a great number of people in Ephesus surrendered their hearts to God and burned their idols and books of sorcery. But the merchants of the city were not happy about this.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.