Podcasts about epistles

Did the Apostle Peter write 1 Peter and 2 Peter? Many modern scholars say No. Absolutely not. Yet, Dr. Stephen Boyce is not convinced by their standard arguments. He joins the show to respond and explain why.  -------------- Like what you're hearing?  Support the show >> https://www.classicaltheism.com/support

If you're a follower of Jesus, you know you're supposed to share your faith.We're supposed to tell others about Jesus. But it's often a topic that gives any Christian anxiety. What if I don't know how to articulate what I believe? What if someone asks me a difficult question I don't know how to answer? What if I'm a terrible Christian, fail in my defense, get laughed at, and the name of Christ is disrespected because I don't know what I'm talking about? Take a deep breath… Lisa Fields is the CEO and founder of Jude 3 Project, a leading apologetics organization dedicated to equipping the Black community with the tools to know what they believe and why they believe it. As a renowned Christian apologist, speaker, author, and film producer, she has been a driving force in shapi ng conversations on faith, theology, and culture.She is the author of two books When Faith Disappoints and When Heroes Fall. She has also contributed to two additional books, Cultural Engagement: A Crash Course in Contemporary Issues and Urban Apologetics: Cults and Cultural Ideologies. I wanted to talk to Lisa about her unique way of doing apologetics, what it's like being a black women in a field of study that primarily consists of white men, deconstruction and reconstruction, and how to navigate leadership scandal as both organizations and individuals. Topics Covered: Lisa’s story Healthy and unhealthy ways to approach apologetics Deconstruction and reconstruction Healthy accountability for pastors and churches What to do when a leader falls The challenge of being a black woman in a white male-dominated space (apologetics) Resources Mentioned: Show Sponsor: Dwell Bible Show Sponsor: Planning Center When Faith Disappoints by Lisa Fields When Heroes Fall by Lisa Fields Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer Bullies And Saints by John Dickson People of the Lie by M. Scott Peck Show Sponsor #1: Dwell Bible This episode is brought to you by the Dwell Bible app. Did you have big plans to listen to the Bible in a Year in 2026, but life seemed to get in the way? Maybe it's been a few years since you worked through a Bible listening plan, and now you're feeling the itch to dive back in. Or perhaps this is your first time hearing about a Bible listening plan. Wherever you find yourself today, Dwell has something special just for you! Beginning October 1, you can dive into the New Testament in just three months! It's the perfect way to get back on track or start fresh, by listening to the Bible! It's never been more easy to fit a Bible plan into your active lifestyle. You can choose from multiple NT in 90 Day plans like: The Genre Plan – which groups books by their theme, taking you through the Gospels, Epistles, and Prophecy in a way that highlights their connections and differences The Historical Plan – which takes you through the New Testament as it was likely written, offering a unique historical perspective The Straight Thru Plan – which takes you through the traditional order, from the life of Jesus through the growth of the early church And remember, with Dwell, you're not just listening—you're experiencing the Bible. You can choose from a variety of amazing voices, set the perfect background music, and even adjust the speed to match your pace. To subscribe to a new plan now, head over to dwellbible.com/beyondsunday for 50% off today and so you're ready to start on October 1st! Show Sponsor #2: Planning Center This episode is brought to you by Planning Center, helping you sync all your ministry details across your whole church. Planning Center has become so essential to how I manage a team, that it's almost impossible to consider local church ministry without it anymore. Today, I want to leave you with a PCO pro-tip. Does this sound like a familiar situation? It's the end of the week. You're about to leave the office when you suddenly think: Did all of our volunteers confirm for Sunday? You scroll through the schedule and sure enough—there's a gap. Instead of allowing yourself to spiral into a panic, try this: In Services, Planning Center has gap alerts. Turn them on, and you'll get a heads-up days before service if positions are still unfilled or unconfirmed. No more end of the week scrambling. Speaking of less scrambling, did you know you can access everything you need for rehearsals right from the Service media player on your phone? Lyrics, chord charts, arrangement notes—it's all right there, so you're not hunting for files in the middle of hitting those power chords. To see what else you can do to make your Sundays easier, go to planningcenter.com/blog. The post #402: Apologetics, Disappointing Faith, And When Heroes Fall with Lisa Fields appeared first on Beyond Sunday Worship.

Today we look at the Epistles and their practical function in our life as believers. We also note how that within the scriptures are both prophecy and secrets hidden in plain sight about something the Bible calls the remnant. We will explore how we use this knowledge to pinpoint ourselves in prophetic Chronology, serve our gifts and innovate for the body of Christ. Jesus Christ Loves You! ❤️LoveWalk is Online:Lovewalk.substack.comLovewalk.gumroad.comOn Social Media:Pinterest, YouTube and Tiktok@lovewalkfellowship

The holy Apostle was, by the world's reckoning, the nephew of our Savior, since his mother Salome was the daughter of St Joseph the Betrothed. Called 'the beloved disciple,' St John was the only one of Christ's disciples to follow Him to the Cross. He was entrusted by the Savior with the care of the most holy Theotokos, and became like another son to her, providing for her care until the day of her repose. He preached the Gospel of Christ throughout Asia Minor, especially in Ephesus. During the persecutions of the Emperor Domitian, he was taken in bonds to Rome, where he was subjected to various tortures; but when he emerged from these miraculously unharmed, he was exiled to the island of Patmos, where he wrote the book of Revelation. After the death of Domitian, he returned to Ephesus and there wrote his Gospel and Epistles. He reposed in peace at a great old age. When his disciples later opened his grave, they found that his body was not there. He is called the Theologian because of the sublimity of theological expression in his New Testament writings.

~~~~~~~ No 31 in the series - The Epistles of Peter. ~~~~~~~ **Considering 2 Peter 2:20-22** For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. *1/ The danger of backsliding. 2/ Ways and steps to backsliding to old sins. 3/ Hope for a backslider.* **Sermon Summary:** The sermon addresses the spiritual danger of backsliding, defined as a return to former sinful ways or doctrinal errors after initial conversion. It distinguishes between the irreversible fall of false professors and the recoverable condition of true believers who may drift from their first love. The message identifies specific indicators of spiritual decline, such as neglecting private devotion, isolation from the church, pride, and susceptibility to novel teachings. It concludes with a pastoral assurance of hope, emphasizing that God is merciful and willing to restore those who genuinely repent and return to Him, citing examples like Peter and Solomon to demonstrate the power of divine grace in healing backslidings.

~~~~~~~ No 31 in the series - The Epistles of Peter. ~~~~~~~ **Considering 2 Peter 2:20-22** For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire. *1/ The danger of backsliding. 2/ Ways and steps to backsliding to old sins. 3/ Hope for a backslider.* **Sermon Summary:** The sermon addresses the spiritual danger of backsliding, defined as a return to former sinful ways or doctrinal errors after initial conversion. It distinguishes between the irreversible fall of false professors and the recoverable condition of true believers who may drift from their first love. The message identifies specific indicators of spiritual decline, such as neglecting private devotion, isolation from the church, pride, and susceptibility to novel teachings. It concludes with a pastoral assurance of hope, emphasizing that God is merciful and willing to restore those who genuinely repent and return to Him, citing examples like Peter and Solomon to demonstrate the power of divine grace in healing backslidings.

Maya Angelou once said, “”History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, however, if faced with courage, need not be lived again.” The discipline of reading and studying history is not to make us feel good. It's to instruct us so we don't repeat the same mistakes. One of the greatest living historians of American Christianity is Kristin Kobes Du Mez. Her book Jesus And John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation explores how American evangelicalism embraced militant masculinity and Christian nationalism. It was released in 2020 and was a worldwide bestseller. It's not an easy book to ready, but helps to make sense of so much what we're seeing in America today. Her new book Live Laugh Love: The Secret History of White Christian Women and the World They Made is another tour de force. It's a sweeping history about Christian women, but it's not only for women to read. We break it down in this interview and talk about 19th century holiness evangelicalism, the widespread influence of Hannah Whitall Smith and her book “A Christian's Secret to a Happy Life”, the marketing machine of American religion, influential women artists in Christian music, why it's impossible to be apolitical, and why we need to pay attention to stories of spiritual abuse. Historians are not our enemies, even if they tell us what we don't want to hear. Be prepared to be surprised, infuriated, challenged, and motivated to work towards a healthier church. Topics Covered: The surprising success of Jesus And John Wayne What the critics of J&JW are saying Why critiquing evangelical culture is so challenging Why Kristin was talking about Doug Wilson before he was national news The origins of Live Laugh Love Hannah Whitall Smith and her influence on Christian women’s culture 19th century holiness evangelicalism and it’s influence today The marketing machine of American religion Why it’s impossible to be apolitical Why what is marketed as biblical is not always biblical The fascinating and tragic story of Elizabeth Elliot Resources Mentioned: Show Sponsor: Dwell Bible App Show Sponsor: Planning Center Live Laugh Love by Kristin Kobes Du Mez Jesus And John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez All The Frequent Troubles of Our Days by Rebecca Donner Show Sponsor #1: Dwell Bible This episode is brought to you by the Dwell Bible app. Did you have big plans to listen to the Bible in a Year in 2026, but life seemed to get in the way? Maybe it's been a few years since you worked through a Bible listening plan, and now you're feeling the itch to dive back in. Or perhaps this is your first time hearing about a Bible listening plan. Wherever you find yourself today, Dwell has something special just for you! Beginning October 1, you can dive into the New Testament in just three months! It's the perfect way to get back on track or start fresh, by listening to the Bible! It’s never been more easy to fit a Bible plan into your active lifestyle. You can choose from multiple NT in 90 Day plans like: The Genre Plan – which groups books by their theme, taking you through the Gospels, Epistles, and Prophecy in a way that highlights their connections and differences The Historical Plan – which takes you through the New Testament as it was likely written, offering a unique historical perspective The Straight Thru Plan – which takes you through the traditional order, from the life of Jesus through the growth of the early church And remember, with Dwell, you're not just listening—you're experiencing the Bible. You can choose from a variety of amazing voices, set the perfect background music, and even adjust the speed to match your pace. To subscribe to a new plan now, head over to dwellbible.com/beyondsunday for 50% off today and so you're ready to start on October 1st! Show Sponsor #2: Planning Center This episode is brought to you by Planning Center, helping you sync all your ministry details across your whole church. Planning Center has become so essential to how I manage a team, that it's almost impossible to consider local church ministry without it anymore. Today, I want to leave you with a PCO pro-tip. Does this sound like a familiar situation? It's the end of the week. You're about to leave the office when you suddenly think: Did all of our volunteers confirm for Sunday? You scroll through the schedule and sure enough—there's a gap. Instead of allowing yourself to spiral into a panic, try this: In Services, Planning Center has gap alerts. Turn them on, and you'll get a heads-up days before service if positions are still unfilled or unconfirmed. No more end of the week scrambling. Speaking of less scrambling, did you know you can access everything you need for rehearsals right from the Service media player on your phone? Lyrics, chord charts, arrangement notes—it's all right there, so you're not hunting for files in the middle of hitting those power chords. To see what else you can do to make your Sundays easier, go to planningcenter.com/blog. The post #401: How Studying History Can Help The Church Tell The Truth, Face Reality, & Confront Harmful Systems with Kristin Kobes Du Mez appeared first on Beyond Sunday Worship.

Pastor Cynthia Mansfield Testimonials

Pastor Cynthia Mansfield Testimonies

You are not who you used to be.In this message from the Identity series, we look at what actually happened on the inside when you were born again—and why seeing yourself the way God sees you changes how you live, how you handle fear and anxiety, and how you walk out your assignment.Religion keeps people small. Relationship with Jesus raises you into sonship and daughtership. The Gospels give us a picture of Jesus' ministry. The Epistles give us the X-ray of what God did in you: you became a new creation. Old things passed away. All things became new.In this message, we cover:- Putting on the new man (Colossians 3:10)- Why your spirit already knows things the Holy Spirit is trying to get into your mind- Philippians 1:6 — He who began a good work in you will complete it- Feelings as warning lights, not your identity (fear, anxiety, and depression are not your portion)- You are complete in Him — the fullness of the Godhead dwells in Christ, and you are in Him (Colossians 2:9-10)- Taking off the old man and putting on the new (Ephesians 4:20-24)- Living from God instead of trying to live for God- Short-term identities, long-term identities, and the only identity that actually matters: who you are in ChristYou are a King's kid. Heaven's resources are behind you. Speak to the mountain. Function like who He says you are.Support the show

What if Scripture was meant to be experienced with more than just our minds? In this episode, Dr. Carol talks with biblical scholar and Biola University professor Dr. Jeannine Hanger about what it means to engage the Bible through our whole selves—our bodies, senses, memories, and experiences. Drawing from her work Engaging Jesus with Our Senses, Dr. Hanger explains how Western Christianity can sometimes reduce discipleship to acquiring information, while Scripture invites us into something much richer. Together, they explore the sensory language woven throughout the Gospel of John—from Jesus as the Bread of Life and Light of the World to His compassionate touch and Mary of Bethany filling a room with the fragrance of costly perfume. Dr. Hanger also offers practical ways to slow down and encounter familiar passages differently. She shares how practices such as Lectio Divina, walking while reflecting on Scripture, creating worship playlists, and intentionally noticing sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and touch can help biblical truths move from something we simply know to something we more deeply experience. Along the way, Dr. Carol and Dr. Hanger discuss the powerful connections between scent and memory, the significance of physical touch in Jesus' ministry, and why sensory metaphors such as tasting God's goodness or carrying the fragrance of Christ still speak so powerfully today. Dr. Hanger also gives a glimpse into her upcoming project, Engaging the Epistles with Our Senses, and considers why physically gathering, worshiping, eating, serving, and living in community with other Believers matter for our spiritual formation. If your time in Scripture has begun to feel primarily intellectual—or simply routine—this conversation may help you encounter God's Word with fresh attention and your whole self. For more about today's topic, check out Dr. Hanger's book, Engaging Jesus With Our Senses. You can follow Dr. Hanger on Instagram, X, or Facebook.   Click here to learn more about Dr. Carol Ministries, including information about: In-Person Intensive Weekend - Experience true healing and wholeness as you unpack your personal story around intimacy and relationships in a safe, caring, Christ-filled environment.     Individual Coaching with Dr. Carol - A one-on-one format to help you navigate your personal journey through practical encouragement and scriptural- based perspective.    

By Jorge de Campos - Hebrews 3 emphasizes Christ's supremacy over Moses and calls Christians to remain faithful to the end. Israel's wilderness failure warns us that sin can deceive, harden the conscience, and produce unbelief and disobedience. God's Word trains our spiritual discernment; therefore, we must continually

Women's Bible Study 2026-27 Hosea & John's Epistles Lesson 1 | Christ Presbyterian Church in Houston, TX The post Hosea & John's Epistles Lesson 1 appeared first on Christ Presbyterian Church of Houston.

UNDATED ROMAN PLATO ACADEMYDion's Revolution And Plato's Philosophical LegacyJames Romm, Part Two: Romm details Dion's invasion of Syracuse to overthrow Dionysius II. Dion was welcomed as a liberator but clashed with populist fleet commander Heraclides. Dion ultimately orchestrated Heraclides's political murder, plunging Dion into deep depression before he was assassinated by Callippus, a fellow Academy student. Dionysius II later returned to power but abdicated when Corinthian general Timoleon arrived with a mercenary army. Dionysius lived out his remaining years peacefully in Corinth as a music teacher, inspiring the ancient proverb "Dionysius is in Corinth." Romm examines how Plutarch and Plato sought to protect the Academy's reputation despite these political failures. The discussion explores the Republic, including the hierarchy of regimes, the Allegory of the Cave, and the Myth of Er. Finally, Romm assesses Plato's Epistles, noting how the Seventh Letter defended Dion. (2)

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: .1 John 1:1--4 -- Jesus, Our Fixed Point of Reference1. We are often spiritually disorientedAncient sailors relied on the stars to navigate.Without visible stars, they could lose their bearings—and even their lives.Likewise, modern people can be technologically connected yet spiritually adrift.We need fixed points of reference for life's ultimate questions.2. 1 John gives us courageous clarityJohn speaks with courageous clarity about God, morality, love, sin, and Christian life.His words both challenge and comfort, helping us reorient our lives.3. The fixed point is not merely a truth—it is a person1 John 1:1–4 points us to Jesus Christ.Jesus is:From the beginning.The Word of Life and Eternal Life.With the Father.The source of all life.Jesus reveals who God is and what life is about.4. The eternal Son became fleshJesus did not remain distant or abstract—he was made manifest.John emphasizes his eyewitness experience: heard, seen, looked upon, touched.The reality of Jesus' life in the flesh is foundational to Christianity.Jesus is fully God and fully human.5. Jesus brings us into fellowshipJohn proclaims what he experienced so that others might share in it.The goal is koinonia—fellowship:With the Father and the Son.With other believers.Christianity is not merely an individual transaction with God.Fellowship with God and love for fellow believers are inseparable.6. Fellowship around Jesus produces joyJohn writes so that “our joy” / “your joy” may be complete.Joy comes through sharing Christ and forming community around him.Discussion QuestionsRandy talked about how 1 John "rescues us from a foggy spirituality of mishmashed feelings, therapeutic platitudes, and cultural compromises." Can you think of any such examples of a "foggy spirituality"? How do they compare with the courageous clarity and conviction of 1 John?Read the Gospel of John 1:1-5. What are some connection points to 1 John 1:1-4? Why does John start both his Gospel and his letter in this way?John is an old man when he writes this letter. Do you think perspective would have been different if he had written it earlier in his life? In what ways has your perspective of Jesus changed over the years?John establishes a connection between fellowship (koinonia) and joy. What is the basis of Christian fellowship? How does it complete joy?1 John -- Study Resources:IntroductoryBibleProjectGuide--1, 2, 3 JohnIan Paul, "What do the letters of John teach us about faith, hope and love?"CommentariesJohn R. W. Stott, The Epistles of John (TNTC)Colin G. Kruse, The Epistles of John (PNTC)Notes for Small Group LeadersN.T. Wright, The Letters of JohnMichael LeFebvre, Knowing the Bible: 1--3 JohnWatch The First Hymn Documentary  - Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Randy Forrester ().

Bible Prophecy Under the Microscope-Episode 108 Gary concludes his response to Ayo, who had questions about preterism and decided to return to dispensationalism. Gary shows how various passages in the New Testament, both in the Gospels and the Epistles, refer to the same first-century events. Jesus, Paul, Peter, James, and John were all speaking about what was happening, or about to happen, to them and their countrymen, not people thousands of years in their future.

Ezekiel‘s commission to preach God‘s word to his hard hearted people

By Jorge de Campos - Hebrews 2 reveals Christ's superiority to angels and explains why He became human. He tasted death for mankind, defeated Satan, and is bringing many sons to glory. By sharing our human experience, suffering and temptation, Christ became our merciful and faithful High Priest, able to understand

The Praise O'Clock Show (also known as The Praiseworld Podcast) is the breakfast show of Praiseworld Radio.Host: Goodness Ezeh, Kanyinsola Omojola

~~~~~~~ No 30 in the series - The Epistles of Peter. ~~~~~~~ **Considering 2 Peter 2:10 - 19** But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. ......... While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage. *1/ The prominence the Holy Spirit has given in the Word, to warn of the danger of walking after the flesh. 2/ What is said in this text of their practices. 3/ The terrible end of those that walk after the flesh. 4/ How shall we escape being beguiled and allured.* **Sermon Summary:** This sermon issues a solemn warning against those who walk after the flesh and despise divine authority, drawing parallels between the teachings of 2 Peter, Jude, and Romans. The preacher emphasizes that believers must not remain neutral but must actively choose to walk after the Spirit rather than the flesh to avoid spiritual peril. Key themes include the deceptive nature of false teachers who feast within the church and the absolute necessity of being established in biblical truth to resist their allure. The message urges the congregation to mortify sinful deeds, maintain stability in God's word, and hate evil with urgency. Ultimately, it calls for a wholehearted commitment to holiness, relying on the Spirit for deliverance from the corruption of the world.

By Jorge de Campos - Jesus Christ is superior to the prophets, superior to the angels, and superior to the created universe. He is the eternal Son of God, our Savior, our King, and the One through whom God establishes the New Covenant.

By Tim Martens - What you do matters. What you decide to do, today and every day, has a consequence. The Bible is relentlessly clear about this: cause and effect, decisions and rewards. From Revelation to Proverbs, from Ruth to the Epistles, Scripture repeats the same theme — sometimes gently, sometimes urgently —

By Jorge de Campos - When was Hebrews written? Who wrote Hebrews? Background of the Epistle. Six warnings. God now speaks through His Son!

The Basement Epistles | Byron YawnPhilippians 4:10-13 ESV

Streamed live on Jul 24, 2026 #nephilim #hebrewbible #paleo #torah #hebrewbible #torahportion #torahcommunity #torahdiscussion #torahpodcast #paleo #hebrewscriptures #genesis #nephilim #biblestudy #bibleverse #oldtestament #sabbath #sabbathfellowship #sabbathkeeper #apocryphaltexts #apocrypha 2026 TUC YEARLY FINANCIAL GOAL (Paleo Hebrew Scriptures): https://www.givesendgo.com/The-Paleo-... Contact: noelhadley@yahoo.com TUC BOOK CLUB (Patreon):   / membership   PayPal: paypal.me/noeljoshuahadley Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/Noel-Hadley TUC Store: https://store.theunexpectedcosmology.... 2026 TUC Catalogue: https://unexpected-cosmology.nyc3.dig... Website: The Unexpected Cosmology Link: https://theunexpectedcosmology.com/ Archives page: https://theunexpectedcosmology.com/ar... TUC Discord Community:   / discord   TUC 2 YouTube:    / @theunexpectedcosmology2   Hebrew Match Dating: https://www.hebrewmatch.com/ Shelves of Shalom Publishing: https://shelvesofshalompublishing.com/ Facebook:   / theunexpectedcosmology  

In this episode of The Leader's Notebook (Ep. 325), I invite you to listen beyond the words of the New Testament epistles and hear the voices of the men who wrote them. From James and Jude, the half-brothers of Jesus, to John, the beloved disciple, and Simon Peter, the bold apostle transformed by grace, these letters reveal not only doctrine but deeply personal encounters with Christ. Their writings are shaped by what they saw, what they lived, and how Jesus changed them. We will explore practical faith in James, authentic worship in Jude, abiding love in John's letters, and the powerful testimony of Peter, who never forgot witnessing Christ's transfiguration. These epistles remind us that Christianity is not merely belief—it is a living relationship with the risen Son of God. As we hear the hearts behind these sacred letters, we are challenged to ask ourselves: What has convinced us that Jesus is truly Lord, and what truth are we building our lives upon?- Dr. Mark Rutland Chapters (00:00:03) - The Leaders Notebook(00:00:26) - Congratulations! Travis Rutland Launches a Podcast(00:01:59) - The Epistles(00:04:40) - The Letters of James, John, and Peter(00:05:52) - James the Half Brother and the Letter of James(00:13:55) - Jude the Book of Preaching(00:15:52) - 3 Letters of John(00:22:35) - John's Letters to His People(00:24:35) - Simon Peter(00:27:46) - The Last Epistle of Peter(00:34:31) - The Book of Revelation

The end of Colossians includes a number of people who send and receive greetings. Why is that so important? Let's find out together as we read Colossians 4:7-18 and Proverbs 6:6-11.

~~~~~~~ No 25 in the series - The Epistles of Peter. ~~~~~~~ **Considering 2 Peter 1:10-11** Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. *1/ Give diligence - our attitude. 2/ What is calling? How can we make it sure? 3/ The marks of a true call. 4/ The wonderful prospect set before those truly called.* **Sermon summary:** The sermon exhorts believers to diligently examine their lives to confirm the reality of their divine calling and election, drawing primarily on 2 Peter 1:10-11. It contrasts general religious zeal with true spiritual regeneration, using Romans 8 and 10 to illustrate that authentic faith produces specific fruits such as the indwelling Holy Spirit, confession of Christ, and obedience. The preacher emphasizes that assurance comes not from perfect performance but from observing God's work in transforming a sinner's heart and desires. By recognizing these marks of grace, believers can find comfort and confidence in their salvation, knowing it rests solely on God's sovereign choice rather than human merit. Ultimately, this examination leads to the hopeful prospect of an abundant entrance into the everlasting kingdom.

In this episode of The Leader's Notebook (Ep. 323), I take you into Paul's letters to Timothy and Titus—two young pastors entrusted with leading churches in challenging times. From 1 Timothy and Titus, we discover timeless truths about sound doctrine, Christian character, church life, and faithful stewardship. Paul's message is as relevant today as it was when these letters were first written: what we believe shapes how we live, and strong doctrine must always be matched by a godly life. Together, we'll explore the importance of guarding the truth without being distracted by endless arguments, loving imperfect people in a complicated church, and keeping our hearts free from the love of money while using God's blessings for His purposes. Whether you are a pastor, church leader, or believer seeking to grow in spiritual maturity, this message offers practical wisdom for living faithfully in a confused world. Sound doctrine, a clean life, and Christlike love remain essential for every generation.– Dr. Mark Rutland Chapters (00:00:03) - The Leaders Notebook(00:00:26) - Congratulations! Travis Rutland Launches His Own Podcast(00:01:58) - The Epistles of Paul(00:03:18) - Paul's First Letter to Timothy and Titus(00:04:22) - 1 Timothy(00:06:03) - Paul's letters to Titus and Timothy(00:06:45) - Paul's Letter to Titus (2(00:14:28) - Paul on Sound Doctrine and Vain Janglings(00:22:01) - Paul and the issue of women in the church(00:28:08) - The Love of Money in 1 Timothy(00:35:17) - Paul on Doctrine and Financial Issues

Our 4th and final NT norm is the centrality of prayer in the life of the early church. Listen in as we share 4 "P" observations on prayer - It was a Priority; It Preceded the filling and work of the Spirit; It was the church's response to Persecution; and it was Personal and Persistent. 4 P's: 1-Priority. Begins the book of Acts—“All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers" (1:14).  In Ch. 2, the church was praying when the Holy Spirit filled them.  Acts 2:42- he church was devoted to prayer. It was one of the first things that marked them out—alongside the apostle's teaching, breaking the bread, and fellowship. Acts 6: We see the priority of prayer even more strikingly when the apostles single out prayer alongside of the ministry of the Word as their primary responsibility. “But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” “I stand here to confess frankly that from my inmost heart I attribute the large prosperity which God has given to this Church vastly more to the prayers of the people than to anything that God may have given to me. I know it is so.” - Charles Spurgeon 2-Precedes the filling and work of the Spirit.  Acts 2 begins with the believers all together in one place, praying. And we know what happened next—the sound from heaven like a mighty rushing wind, filling the house where they were.  Acts 4- The believers are gathered together praying in the midst of persecution—praying specifically for boldness. “And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness" (4:31). Acts 13- The prophets and teachers of the church in Antioch were gathered and they were worshipping the Lord and fasting. Just then the Holy Spirit calls out Barnabas and Saul. And after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.  These are pretty pivotal moments in the history of the gospel—especially in Chapters 2 and 13. And we see that God's people had been devoting themselves to prayer in the time leading up to these great events—these experiences of the Spirit's work. Prayer had paved the way for these people to respond when the Spirit showed up.  3-Persecution- Prayer was the church's consistent response to persecution. Acts 4- Peter and John have just been threatened by the high-priestly council. "When they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them. And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said, “Sovereign Lord. . .” (4:23-24). Their immediate reaction to the threat of violence from the ruling authorities was to pray. And hear what they prayed: “And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”  Acts 12- Peter is in prison and miraculously rescued by an angel of the Lord. When he is rescued, it says “he went to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose other name was Mark, where many were gathered together and were praying.” Again, the response of the church to the persecution of her people is to pray.  Acts 16- Paul and Silas in prison. “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.” In the midst of persecution, we find these two workers praying and singing hymns.  Prayer is what we do when we are persecuted. It is the response of God's church to the threats and persecutions. In each of these moments, God miraculously answered. 4-Personal and Persistent. In Acts, we don't get much details about the personal prayer lives of the apostles. Many references are to the church praying corporately. However in Paul's epistles, we find Paul talking about his own prayer life all over the place – way too many to reference, will just name a few- Eph. 1:16- "I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers…" and we see his personal prayer for the Ephesian believers.  Eph. 3:14-19. Paul's prayers were important enough for him to write out for them and for us. A few examples from 1st Thessalonians: 1 Thess. 1:2- "We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers." 1 Thess. 5:17- "Pray without ceasing." 1 Thess. 5:25- "Brothers, pray for us."  Paul was not voicing prayers for believers every moment of every day. He was sometimes preaching the gospel; he was sometimes sleeping; he was sometimes eating or traveling. But he had such a habit of prayer that he described it as day and night, constant.  Eph. 6:10-20- Paul teaches us that we are in a spiritual battle and prayer is an essential weapon. Paul commands us to take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. The Word, The Spirit, and constant prayer. As we've found these 4 NT norms, we have seen in a new way for us how intertwined they are. The Word bears fruit by the power of the Spirit. The Spirit honors and responds to the preaching of the Word and obedience to the Word and prayer. Prayer is what invites the Holy Spirit to work in our lives, and there is no real prayer without the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Prayer was seen as part of the work of the church. It was at the center of their ministry. We have a saying among our teams here that prayer is the greater work. We believe that because we ultimately believe that this work we're doing is His work. It doesn't move forward unless He moves and the Spirit grants repentance and life. Paul said, “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gives the growth.” Prayer is an admission of our helplessness and a plea for God to do what only He can do. That's why we see the early church devoting themselves to it. Prayer was necessary to them—it was just a part of their lives, and of their gathering together. If you are listening and feel like you're a terrible pray-er, don't give into discouragement or paralysis or accusations --- just start! Read a good book on prayer. Make sure you're spending daily time with God alone in the Word and in prayer. Use your drive or shower to pray. Post a prayer list by your bathroom mirror and pray as you brush your teeth. Set a timer for a certain time each day. 12:12, 3:10. And ask God for help!  This concludes our series on NT norms – daily ministry, the Word, the Spirit, and prayer.  

By Jorge de Campos - Paul addresses our proper Christian conduct towards those not in the church, those outside. Paul in one long sentence summarizes what salvation is. Avoid those that are argumerntative and divise. Be careful to maintain good works.

There are some attributes of God that are obvious (He is incredibly intelligent and powerful). Other divine qualities are like treasures, hidden for us to find. This week Jim has a bit more to say about the unchanging nature of the Creator; and he'll take us from Psalms to the Epistles to show that God not only knows all, but He is wise in His choices! Exploring these traits can help us see the greatness of our King, to worship Him, and to live like His children. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS07242026_0.mp3Scripture References: 1 Timothy 1:17; Colossians 1:16 & 17; Ephesians 1:8

There are some attributes of God that are obvious (He is incredibly intelligent and powerful). Other divine qualities are like treasures, hidden for us to find. This week Jim has a bit more to say about the unchanging nature of the Creator; and he'll take us from Psalms to the Epistles to show that God not only knows all, but He is wise in His choices! Exploring these traits can help us see the greatness of our King, to worship Him, and to live like His children. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS07232026_0.mp3Scripture References: 1 Timothy 1:17; Colossians 1:16 & 17; Ephesians 1:8

There are some attributes of God that are obvious (He is incredibly intelligent and powerful). Other divine qualities are like treasures, hidden for us to find. This week Jim has a bit more to say about the unchanging nature of the Creator; and he'll take us from Psalms to the Epistles to show that God not only knows all, but He is wise in His choices! Exploring these traits can help us see the greatness of our King, to worship Him, and to live like His children. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS07222026_0.mp3Scripture References: Hebrews 4; Psalms 139

There are some attributes of God that are obvious (He is incredibly intelligent and powerful). Other divine qualities are like treasures, hidden for us to find. This week Jim has a bit more to say about the unchanging nature of the Creator; and he'll take us from Psalms to the Epistles to show that God not only knows all, but He is wise in His choices! Exploring these traits can help us see the greatness of our King, to worship Him, and to live like His children. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS07212026_1.mp3Scripture References: Hebrews 4; Psalms 139

God Sees a Jesus Follower as Being “In Christ”; Therefore, God Sees a Jesus Follower as His Son or Daughter MESSAGE SUMMARY: As Followers of Jesus, you are "In Christ" -- God looks at you, as a Jesus Follower, and He sees Jesus in you. Throughout the Epistles we find: "In Christ" or "In Him". In Galatians 3:14, Paul tells you that your faith in Jesus makes you “In Christ” and a recipient of God's Covenant with Abraham: “so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.". Also, Paul goes even further, in Galatians 3:25-28, to tell you that, through your faith in Jesus, you no longer need any kind of intermediary because you are “In Christ” and you have a personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe: “But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian.”. When God sees you, “In Christ" as a Jesus Follower, He sees Jesus, the Son. Therefore, God sees you as His son or daughter.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus' name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Compulsions. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Patience. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 3:21-26; Romans 6:5-11; Romans 6:22-23; Psalms 63:1-11.   A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Following Jesus – Jesus Calls Us to Follow Him Without Reservations”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

In every circumstance, God is near. Always we begin again in the grace and peace of Jesus Christ.

By Jorge de Campos - Paul describes what ministers have to preach: sound doctrine!

The post Epistles 18: 2:3-17 appeared first on Vertical Life Church.

The post Epistles 17: 1 Peter 2:4-12 appeared first on Vertical Life Church.

The post Epistles 16: 1 Peter 2:1-3 appeared first on Vertical Life Church.

By Jorge de Campos - Insubordinates, both idle talkers and deceivers, rebuke them sharply. They profess to know God, but in good works they deny Him. But as for you, speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine.

Send us a messageAny religion outside of true Christianity falls into the category of a mystery religion, as ultimately, they all lead people to damnation. Mystery Babylon is a stridency of confusion, offering many false paths to salvation. Some of the Epistles were written to counter false teachings of the Gnostics (1 John 4:2), and the Nicolaitans (Rev. 2:15), that had already begun to creep into the early church. Jesus also warned of these apostates in Matthew 7:15-16: “Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits.” A wolf is merciless, devouring its prey with no hesitation. Being wrapped in sheep's clothing makes these false teachers all the more dangerous. Only by knowing the doctrines of the Bible can we seek to avoid deception in these last days, and remain steadfast in readiness – for Jesus comes quickly!(Carl Joseph: “What Is Mystery Babylon?”)Support the showVisit our website: https://agapelightministries.com/

6-21-26 |

St. John Chrysostom (c. 349 - c. 407)Translated by Gross Alexander (1852 - 1915)St. Chrysostom's Commentary on the Epistle to the Galatians is continuous, according to chapter and verse, instead of being arranged in Homilies, with a moral or practical application at their close, as in his exposition of other Epistles. It was written in Antioch, as Montfaucon infers from a reference which the Author, makes upon Chap. i., ver. 16 to other of his writings, which certainly were written about the same time in that city. (Introduction from the preface by John Henry Newman)Genre(s): Christianity - CommentaryLanguage: EnglishKeyword(s): religion (744), bible (494), Christianity (382), commentary (61), Galatians (8)

God Sees Jesus Followers as “In Christ”: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” MESSAGE SUMMARY: As Followers of Jesus, we are "In Christ" -- God looks at us and sees Jesus in us. Throughout the Epistles we find: "In Christ" or "In Him". In Galatians 3:14, Paul tells us that our faith in Jesus makes us “In Christ” and recipients of God's Covenant with Abraham: “so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.". Also, Paul goes even further, in Galatians 3:25-28, to tell us that, through our faith in Jesus, we no longer need any kind of intermediary because we are “In Christ” and we have a personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe: “But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian.”. The benefit our position "In Christ", as Christians, is that when God looks at us, He sees Jesus, the Son; therefore, He then sees us as His sons and daughters.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 3:21-26; Romans 6:5-11; Romans 6:22-23; Psalms 77a:1-10. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Are You Willing to Speak Up and Share, Publicly, Your Relationship with Jesus?” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/    DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB  

In this episode, Chris and Tracy welcome E. K. Strawser—pastor, physician, consultant, church planter, and author of You Were Never Meant to Lead Alone. Originally from South Korea, E. K. shares her journey through medical school, ministry, and church planting, reflecting on how her story and place have shaped her leadership. She challenges common assumptions about power, influence, and success, asking hard questions like: Are we drawing crowds or making disciples? Does the church exist just to survive? Grounded in Scripture, particularly Acts and the Epistles, E. K. calls leaders to embrace shared leadership and faithful community.https://www.iwacollaborative.com/ekstrawserhttps://www.iwacollaborative.com/books

He is mentioned in the Epistles of St Paul (Romans 16:14). He served as a bishop in the first-century Church, and died a martyr. His book, The Shepherd, is one of the earliest Christian writings outside of the New Testament, and was held in such esteem by the early Church that it is sometimes found in ancient collections of the Holy Scriptures.   Hermas had been a wealthy man, but had fallen into poverty through his sins. A man, clad all in white and holding a staff, appeared to St Hermas and, telling him that he was an angel of repentance, gave St Hermas twelve commandments: To believe in God To live in simplicity and innocence To love truth and flee from falsehood To guard his thoughts in chastity To learn patience and magnanimity of soul To know that a good and an evil spirit attend every man To fear God, but not the devil To perform every good deed and to restrain himself from every evil one To pray to God in faith from the depths of his heart, so that his prayer might be heard To preserve himself from melancholy, the daughter of doubt, and from anger To try true and false prophecies To preserve himself from every evil desire.