Podcasts about faith in jesus

Read OnlineDrinking Christ's ChaliceThe mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus with her sons and did him homage, wishing to ask him for something. He said to her, “What do you wish?” She answered him, “Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your Kingdom.” Jesus said in reply, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?” They said to him, “We can.” Matthew 20:20–22Among the Twelve Apostles, two were named James: James the Greater, son of Zebedee, and James the Lesser, son of Alpheus. James the Greater, whom we honor today, was likely called “greater” due to his prominence in the Gospel narrative. He was the brother of John the Evangelist, and tradition holds that their mother was Salome, possibly the sister of the Blessed Virgin Mary—making James and John cousins of Jesus.In today's Gospel, the mother of James and John expresses her natural affection and ambition for her sons by approaching Jesus with a bold request: that they might sit, one at His right and the other at His left, in His Kingdom. While her petition reveals faith in Jesus and love for her sons, it also highlights a misunderstanding of the nature of Christ's kingship. Earthly rulers may reign with power, honor, and prestige, but the Kingdom of God is not built on worldly glory; it is built on humble, self-giving love.Jesus responds with a gentle yet penetrating question: “Can you drink the chalice that I am going to drink?” The “chalice” refers to His suffering—His Passion and Death. It is filled not with comfort or honor, but with humiliation and sacrifice. James and John respond with confident simplicity: “We can.” Their answer, though likely offered without full understanding, reveals a spark of heroic love and loyalty that would, in time, be tested and fulfilled.Jesus affirms, “My chalice you will indeed drink.” Saint James would become the first of the Apostles to suffer martyrdom, as recorded in Acts 12:2, when he was beheaded by the sword under Herod Agrippa. Herod sought to strike at the newly developing Church and to appease the Jews who opposed Jesus and His followers.James truly shared in the Passion of Christ, offering his life in union with his Master. His martyrdom was followed by the arrest of Peter, likewise intended to please those persecuting the Church. Yet while Peter was miraculously freed by an angel, James was not. Why?Like James and Peter, each of us has a unique mission in life. Some, like Peter, are raised to prominence and leadership. Others, like James, are called to a more hidden and radical sacrifice. Both vocations are precious in the eyes of God. James' early martyrdom was not a failure but a fulfillment—a witness to the glory of drinking deeply from the chalice of Christ.As we honor Saint James, reflect today on his zeal, faith, and desire to be an active member of Christ's Kingdom. Though he misunderstood what that entailed at first, he remained faithful until the end. Reflect on your own desire for status or recognition. Do you seek honor among others, whether in the Church or society? If so, turn to Saint James, who ultimately embraced the true mission of discipleship. We, too, must drink Christ's chalice of selfless and sacrificial love, willingly laying down our lives in countless ways. Resolve to embrace whatever mission God entrusts to you. If He opens the door to leadership and prominence, walk through it humbly. If He leads you through the door of sacrifice and holy suffering, do not hesitate. God has a unique and glorious mission for each of us—different from one another, yet equally glorious when accepted with love and fidelity.My sacrificial Lord, You freely and completely offered Your life on the Cross and invite me to follow in Your footsteps. Saint James responded with courage, drinking the chalice You gave him, even to the shedding of his blood. Reveal to me, Lord, the mission You have entrusted to my life, and grant me the strength to embrace it with all my heart. May I, like Saint James, share in the glory of Your Kingdom through a life of faithful love and sacrifice. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: St James the Apostle, by Peter Paul RubensSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

If you placed your faith in Jesus, we are celebrating with you!Subscribe to Our Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEHNDPb5XMkf1LyqoTU30vg Help Support and Grow our Ministry to reach people around our community and spread the love of Jesus: https://transformchurch.com/giving/ Stay connected with us through our:Transform Church Website: https://transformchurch.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformchurchnj/Plan your next in-person visit. We are located at:Rutherford Location- The Williams CenterSummer Hours: 9AM, 11AM, 1PM15 Sylvan St, Rutherford NJLyndhurst Location- 10AM, 12PM525 Riverside Ave, Lyndhurst NJ

Brandon Curriston preaches on Psalm 84 on Sunday, July 19, 2026.Main Idea:  We must long for the Lord and come to Him through faith in Jesus.

Saved People Serve People Speaker: Pastor Maurice Johnson Scripture: Luke 10:25–37 | Acts 10:1–8 What does a transformed life look like? In this message, Pastor Maurice Johnson teaches that genuine faith in Jesus naturally leads to a life of compassion, service, and generosity. Through the Parable of the Good Samaritan, discover three marks of those who have been saved: they see people in need with compassion, go to help those in need, and use their own resources to serve others. Following the example of Jesus, we're called to put others first and allow God to use us to make an eternal impact. Listen and be challenged to live out this simple truth: saved people serve people. Our current gathering location is:

Each church has its unique style and approach to how they operate. Some churches have rituals they stick to that seem to miss the mark when it comes to truly connecting with God. When you begin attending these churches, do you ever find yourself pondering the purpose of those rituals? Do they really enhance your connection with Jesus in any meaningful way? Today, Pastor Mark encourages you to avoid certain church rituals that don't really connect to your faith in Jesus. It's all about keeping it genuine! If you're feeling uncertain, just reach out to the Holy Spirit for a little guidance to help you uncover the truth!

0:00 Intro2:00 Mark E. Shaw12:00 End/Final ThoughtsStream the video library for the addiction counselor.COUNSEL — https://theaddictionconnection.thinkific.com/

How many times should we forgive someone who has wronged us? In this message, Pastor Karl explores Jesus' powerful teaching in Matthew 18:21–35, revealing that forgiveness is not about keeping score—it's about reflecting the incredible mercy we've received from God.Through the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant, Pastor Karl explains the immeasurable debt of sin that Christ has forgiven and why that forgiveness transforms the way we respond to those who hurt us. Discover the difference between forgiveness and enabling harmful behavior, why forgiveness is central to life in God's Kingdom, and how releasing others from their debt brings freedom to our own hearts.Whether you're wrestling with past wounds, strained relationships, or the challenge of extending grace, this message offers biblical truth and practical encouragement to help you walk in the freedom Christ has made possible.Watch all our sermons on our youtube channel "Flipside Christian Church"Join us in person 8:00am, 9:30am & 11:00am every Sunday morning.37193 Ave 12 #3h, Madera, CA 93636For more visit us at flipside.churchFor more podcasts visit flipsidepodcasts.transistor.fm

It is our prayer that today's word would encourage and challenge to walk out your faith in Jesus, shine brightly in darkness and experience Kingdom impact in all you do! Stay connected with Belmont Church on our Facebook page, website or on the Church Center App.

In this sermon, Pastor Jason discusses the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15, which is a pivotal moment in the early church when leaders had to answer an essential question: Is salvation received by God's grace through faith, or must people earn it through religious works? As the Gentiles were coming to faith in Jesus, some Jewish believers insisted they first obey the Law of Moses—including circumcision—to truly be saved. Paul, Barnabas, Peter, and James firmly rejected this teaching, declaring that salvation has always been by grace alone through faith in Jesus Christ. The council concluded that believers should never place unnecessary burdens on those coming to Christ because Jesus has already accomplished everything necessary for salvation. The pastor challenges the church to see that this struggle still exists today.    Website: redeemermidland.org Instagram: instagram.com/redeemermidland Facebook: facebook.com/RedeemerMidland   At Redeemer, we seek to be a Gospel-Centered, Missional Family. We sing songs to worship our Lord, we preach the Word of God from the Bible, and we love one another.   We would love to see you on a Sunday morning at 9:00 or 11:00 am at 3601 N. Lamesa Rd in Midland, Texas. 

Previously, Paul addressed the divine sovereignty side of the "problem of Israel" rejecting the gospel. Now, Paul addresses the human responsibility side. Humans have a real role to play when it comes to salvation. Our responsibility is to put our faith in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. This means surrendering and entrusting our lives to Jesus with both an inward conviction as well as an outward expression of belief. And as the responsibility to believe falls upon everyone, the invitation to believe goes out to everyone.

The Book of James: Faith and WorksDid your parents ever tell you: do as I say, not as I do? It's definitely not the best message to send - because the fundamental premise is: belief and action don't have to go together. But, when it comes to faith in Jesus, belief must show up in our behavior. Join us as we learn, from the Book of James, how to do what we say we believe.Part 4

The sermon explores the inevitable destruction of the current heavens and earth by fire, driven by humanity's sin and corruption of God's creation. Drawing primarily from 2 Peter 3, it explains that the present universe is reserved for judgment but will be replaced by a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells. The preacher emphasizes that because all earthly treasures and works are temporary and will vanish, believers should not place their affection on worldly things. Instead, the message urges listeners to set their minds on eternal realities found in Christ, highlighting the contrast between temporal suffering and everlasting glory. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a holy lifestyle focused on heavenly treasures, grounded in the assurance of salvation through faith in Jesus.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260717dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. . . Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. . . But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” Matthew 13:3,8,23 One Seed Multiplies The farmers where I live recently planted their corn crops for the year. At the time of writing this devotion, those corn kernels have sprouted and are about six inches tall. They don’t look like much. But by late summer, those little plants will stand taller than the farmer who planted them. From one kernel of corn, one stalk grows. On that stalk, an ear of corn forms. And on that ear, there may be hundreds of kernels. One seed can produce far more than itself. That is the picture Jesus gives us when he describes the seed that falls on good soil. It produces a crop that is one hundred, sixty, or thirty times what was sown. The seed is God’s Word. When God plants his Word in the heart, he produces what we could never grow on our own. First, God produces faith in Jesus. Through the gospel, the good news of what Jesus has done, God teaches us to trust that Jesus died for our sins, rose from the dead, and gives us forgiveness and life. But the Word doesn’t stop there. Where God gives faith, he also grows fruit. Love where there was selfishness. Joy where there was despair. Peace where there was anxiety. Patience where there was frustration. Kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control where sin had made the heart hard and tangled. And then the fruit multiplies. A person comforted by the Word speaks comfort to someone else. A forgiven sinner tells another sinner about forgiveness. A parent teaches a child. A friend shares a promise. A congregation supports a mission. The same seed that took root in one heart is scattered into another. One seed produces much fruit. That's what God's Word does. Prayer: Lord Jesus, plant your Word deeply in my heart. Grow faith and good fruit in me and use me to share your Word with others. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260717dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. . . Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. . . But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” Matthew 13:3,8,23 One Seed Multiplies The farmers where I live recently planted their corn crops for the year. At the time of writing this devotion, those corn kernels have sprouted and are about six inches tall. They don’t look like much. But by late summer, those little plants will stand taller than the farmer who planted them. From one kernel of corn, one stalk grows. On that stalk, an ear of corn forms. And on that ear, there may be hundreds of kernels. One seed can produce far more than itself. That is the picture Jesus gives us when he describes the seed that falls on good soil. It produces a crop that is one hundred, sixty, or thirty times what was sown. The seed is God’s Word. When God plants his Word in the heart, he produces what we could never grow on our own. First, God produces faith in Jesus. Through the gospel, the good news of what Jesus has done, God teaches us to trust that Jesus died for our sins, rose from the dead, and gives us forgiveness and life. But the Word doesn’t stop there. Where God gives faith, he also grows fruit. Love where there was selfishness. Joy where there was despair. Peace where there was anxiety. Patience where there was frustration. Kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control where sin had made the heart hard and tangled. And then the fruit multiplies. A person comforted by the Word speaks comfort to someone else. A forgiven sinner tells another sinner about forgiveness. A parent teaches a child. A friend shares a promise. A congregation supports a mission. The same seed that took root in one heart is scattered into another. One seed produces much fruit. That's what God's Word does. Prayer: Lord Jesus, plant your Word deeply in my heart. Grow faith and good fruit in me and use me to share your Word with others. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260717dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. . . Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. . . But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” Matthew 13:3,8,23 One Seed Multiplies The farmers where I live recently planted their corn crops for the year. At the time of writing this devotion, those corn kernels have sprouted and are about six inches tall. They don’t look like much. But by late summer, those little plants will stand taller than the farmer who planted them. From one kernel of corn, one stalk grows. On that stalk, an ear of corn forms. And on that ear, there may be hundreds of kernels. One seed can produce far more than itself. That is the picture Jesus gives us when he describes the seed that falls on good soil. It produces a crop that is one hundred, sixty, or thirty times what was sown. The seed is God’s Word. When God plants his Word in the heart, he produces what we could never grow on our own. First, God produces faith in Jesus. Through the gospel, the good news of what Jesus has done, God teaches us to trust that Jesus died for our sins, rose from the dead, and gives us forgiveness and life. But the Word doesn’t stop there. Where God gives faith, he also grows fruit. Love where there was selfishness. Joy where there was despair. Peace where there was anxiety. Patience where there was frustration. Kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control where sin had made the heart hard and tangled. And then the fruit multiplies. A person comforted by the Word speaks comfort to someone else. A forgiven sinner tells another sinner about forgiveness. A parent teaches a child. A friend shares a promise. A congregation supports a mission. The same seed that took root in one heart is scattered into another. One seed produces much fruit. That's what God's Word does. Prayer: Lord Jesus, plant your Word deeply in my heart. Grow faith and good fruit in me and use me to share your Word with others. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Where do you turn when life feels uncertain or overwhelming? In today's Crosswalk Devotional, we reflect on Psalm 32:7 and discover the comforting truth that God is our hiding place. Through the powerful story of Corrie ten Boom, we're reminded that even in our darkest moments, God remains our refuge, protector, and source of lasting hope. Life's hardships can leave us feeling vulnerable, alone, or forgotten. Yet Scripture reminds us that God's presence never leaves us. He surrounds His children with His love, strengthens us through every trial, and faithfully walks with us until deliverance comes. No matter what you're facing today, you can find peace by taking refuge in the One who never fails. Highlights: Discover what Psalm 32:7 teaches about God as our hiding place and protector. Learn how Corrie ten Boom's faith demonstrates trusting God through unimaginable suffering. Be encouraged that God's presence remains constant, even when your circumstances feel uncertain. Understand why God's truth is more reliable than our changing emotions. Find hope in remembering God's faithfulness through past trials as you face today's challenges. Rest in the assurance that God surrounds His children with His protection, peace, and unfailing love. Join the Conversation When have you experienced God as your hiding place during a difficult season? How has remembering His past faithfulness strengthened your trust today? We'd love to hear your story in the comments. Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: You Are My Hiding Place, GodBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance” (Psalm 32:7). Corrie Ten Boom was a strong follower of Jesus who lost everything to the Nazis. Her family protected Jews from being taken to Nazi concentration camps by hiding them. However, one day, they were discovered. Corrie, along with her family, was taken to various jails and concentration camps. Corrie’s father died in prison ten days after arriving, while she and her sister, Betsie, were taken to Ravensbrück concentration camp. Betsie died while in Ravensbrück, which severely affected Corrie. The two sisters were extremely close and relied on one another. Corrie was later released from Ravensbrück by happenstance, which was later discovered to be a clerical error. However, we know this was God working in the situation; He was setting Corrie free from the concentration camp that had taken so much from her. Upon returning home, Corrie noted that home didn’t feel like home anymore. She was waiting for Betsie or her father to show up, but they never did. For many of us who have lost loved ones, we know what this feels like. They have passed on, and we won’t see them again until Heaven. Throughout Corrie’s time living under the Nazi regime, she never lost faith in Jesus. She knew Christ was with her. Even today, He is still right beside us as we face our own battles. Corrie’s book detailing her time under Nazi rule is called “The Hiding Place.” This was connected to how they would hide Jews in a special room in their house, which doubled as their watch shop. While this room kept the Jews safe, it was also God who was protecting them. God is our figurative and literal hiding place. We might not see it at present; however, when the time comes, we will see His safety, protection, and comfort. Intersecting Faith & Life: The Bible speaks of God as our hiding place: “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance” (Psalm 32:7). David wrote this psalm, knowing that God would protect him from trouble and surround him with deliverance. Just as God did this for David, He will do the same for us. Even when you might think God is far, He is near (Acts 17:27). During dark times, it can feel as though He is nowhere to be seen. These feelings are valid, but we must understand that God is greater than our feelings. We don’t need to base our knowledge of God on what we feel. Our feelings may be inaccurate or misleading. Our feelings might tell us that God will not protect us from harm, trouble, or struggle, but we need to remember that He is our hiding place. He will protect us and surround us with His grace. Think about what you need today and present it to Him (1 Peter 5:7). Do not feel afraid to share your real feelings and the thoughts that are pulling you away from Him. God knows life can get hard, and our faith can waver from time to time. However, He doesn’t want us straying away from Him. He is our hiding place where we can go and find safety, security, and hope. Even if you may feel weak and tired right now, go to Him. God walked Corrie out of Ravensbrück, and He will walk you out of this struggle ahead. I have seen it in my own life, and you probably have already seen it in yours, too. Rely on God’s past faithfulness when it seems like a prayer has not been answered in a long time. He will answer your prayers in time and surround you with songs of deliverance (Zephaniah 3:17). Is God currently your hiding place? Why or why not? How can you build your trust in God today? Further Reading: Psalm 28:1-9 Psalm 36:5-9 2 Thessalonians 3:3-5 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Remember God loves you so much he sent his Son Jesus Christ to take the punishment for your sins. You are of great value. Jesus loves you and He is just a prayer away! This episode includes AI-generated content.

Jay owned a Gideon’s Bible, yet his analytical mind didn’t permit him to accept its miracles. One thing haunted him though: the genuine faith of his friend. So Jay offered a strange prayer. He told God, “If you want me to believe in You, then do something I can’t explain.” One day, something drew Jay to look for his Bible. It was gone. How could that be? He never lost track of things. He drove in the rain to his teaching job at the University of Zurich. Stepping out of his car, he spotted a Gideon’s Bible on the wet pavement. That’s strange, he thought. Picking it up, he noticed the Bible was totally dry despite the rain. Something he couldn’t explain! Gideon Bibles are named for an Old Testament hero of Israel. When God chose Gideon to lead Israel into battle against a vast army, Gideon had huge doubts. He told God, “I will place a wool fleece on the threshing floor. If there is dew only on the fleece . . . , then I will know that you will save Israel by my hand” (Judges 6:37). God answered Gideon’s challenge not once but twice (vv. 39–40). Doubt-filled prayers aren’t a pattern for us to follow. They can, however, reveal God’s character. Gideon led a tiny army to a smashing victory (Judges 7). Jay put his faith in Jesus, recognizing that his prayer had been answered by a loving God who does things we can’t explain.

If you placed your faith in Jesus, we are celebrating with you!Subscribe to Our Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEHNDPb5XMkf1LyqoTU30vg Help Support and Grow our Ministry to reach people around our community and spread the love of Jesus: https://transformchurch.com/giving/ Stay connected with us through our:Transform Church Website: https://transformchurch.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformchurchnj/Plan your next in-person visit. We are located at:Rutherford Location- The Williams CenterSummer Hours: 9AM, 11AM, 1PM15 Sylvan St, Rutherford NJLyndhurst Location- 10AM, 12PM525 Riverside Ave, Lyndhurst NJ

In this inspiring episode, Mark Thomas interviews Ghizlaine "Gigi" Taft, who grew up as a practicing Muslim who now follows Jesus with a fierce love and passion as a Christian. Gigi recounts how a life-changing encounter with the Gospel transformed her heart and led her to place her faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior. Her powerful testimony demonstrates God's ability to reach people from every background and reveals the life-changing power of a relationship with Christ.Give financially to our mission of spreading the Gospel message: https://tithe.ly/give_new/www/#/tithely/give-one-time/5727676Join our Evangelism On Fire Community: https://evangelismonfire.com/Subscribe to our podcast today! You can find it on Apple podcast or wherever you get yours.Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@EvangelismOnFireClick the link to join our Evangelism On Fire Facebook community today: www.facebook.com/groups/evangelismonfire

Pastor Scott teaches from Ephesians 5 that believers must live wisely and carefully—redeeming the time, rejecting foolishness and drunkenness, and actively seeking God's will through Scripture, holiness, and Spirit-filled living. He urges constant gratitude, intentional witness to “one more” person, and invites those far from God to repent and place their faith in Jesus for forgiveness and new life.

Tuesday, 14 July 2026   So Jesus answered and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,' it will be done. Matthew 21:21   “Answering, also, the ‘Jesus', He said to them, ‘Amen, I say to you, if you should have faith, and not you should waver, not only the ‘the fig tree' you will do, but and-if the ‘mountain, this', you should say, ‘You be borne, and you be cast into the sea', it will become.'” (CG)   In the previous verse, the disciples marveled and wanted to know how the fig tree desiccated so quickly. With that, Matthew next records, “Answering, also, the ‘Jesus', He said to them, ‘Amen.'”   When Jesus begins a thought with Amen, He intends for His hearers to pay close attention. The matter is something that they should more than just listen to, but consider it carefully. In this case, He next says, “I say to you, if you should have faith, and not you should waver.”   The author of Hebrews defines what faith is –   “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1   Faith is something that requires confidence that something will take place. A person may say, “I have faith that you will pay me back.” It is unknown if that will actually take place, but because of past performance, a trust in the individual, the surety of consequences for failure to comply, or some other reason, the person trusts that the debt will be repaid.   Wavering is a state of letting one's faith weaken for any multitude of reasons. We may have faith that a wedding will take place, but because of ten thousand little things creeping up, we may start to question if there aren't forces behind the scenes working to ensure the wedding never takes place. In such a case, we can double down and say, “I am confident of this outcome.” In the case of Jesus' words, He continues, saying, “not only the ‘the fig tree' you will do.”   In other words, if His disciples have faith that they can do what Jesus did to the fig tree, it will come to pass. If the withering of the fig tree was a metaphor of the ending of the Levitical system of sacrifices under the law, and that a new and better connection to God through Jesus' work has been established, then if they believe in Jesus' fulfillment of the law, they will have that new and better connection to God.   There is no reason to assume that Jesus is speaking of literally killing a fig tree to make a point. It is the metaphor that matters. Jesus' work is what ends the law in the lives of His disciples. Jesus' work is what allows full, final, and forever access to God through the better connection He establishes. From there, He next says, “but and-if the ‘mountain, this', you should say, ‘You be borne, and you be cast into the sea', it will become.”   A new word is seen here, the conditional particle, kan, and-if. It is derived from kai, and, and ean, if. Combining the two results in kan, “and-if.” As for the conditional words, there is no reason to assume Jesus is speaking about a literal mountain, as if the disciples had the authority to have mountains physically moved at their command.   Jesus was heading to Jerusalem. The place where the Temple Mount was. For all we know, He may have pointed at the city, or even the temple visible within the city, and said His words. The term “mountain of the temple,” or literally “mountain, the house,” is something that would have been known to them from Micah 3:12. Thus, this is not a stretch at all. Whatever took place, He is essentially stating that the mountain of the law, described by Paul in Galatians 4, is what He is referring to –   “Tell me, you who desire to be under the law, do you not hear the law? 22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman, the other by a freewoman. 23 But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh, and he of the freewoman through promise, 24 which things are symbolic. For these are the two covenants: the one from Mount Sinai which gives birth to bondage, which is Hagar— 25 for this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children— 26 but the Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all.” Galatians 4:21-26   The Law was given at Horeb. It is what Jerusalem and the temple worship were all about. Jesus just made a metaphor using the fig tree to make a point concerning a spiritual connection to God. There is no reason to assume He is not continuing the use of metaphor. If one believes in the full, final, finished, and forever all-sufficient work of Jesus Christ, the “mountain” of the law will be cast into the sea (a picture of chaos).   The law is an obstacle to a relationship with God, not a means of a right relationship with Him, except as it is fulfilled in Jesus' work. As such, Jesus is giving advanced instruction in what He was about to accomplish and how it would eventually be realized through the use of metaphor.   Life application: By taking verses such as Matthew 21:21 out of their intended context, people make many wholly inappropriate claims concerning spiritual matters, as if they have the authority to do even the most unrealistic things.   At the same time, others arrogantly hint that those around them are lacking faith because they haven't claimed their way into health, prosperity, etc. This type of theology is wholly inappropriate and demonstrates a shallow understanding of the word of God.   Catchy verses are pulled out of their intended context and thrown around like talismans. If the entire Bible is read while keeping passages in their intended dispensational context, people would find out that those being butchered in Africa are just as loved and tended to as those who have million-dollar houses, fancy cars, and who take long vacations.   God's love for a person does not necessarily transfer to wealth, health, and overall prosperity. His love for His people is based on their faith in Him. The Bible promises a future where all trials, sadness, and difficulties will be behind us. But this is not a promise for our lives at this time. If those things come about, that is great. We can thank God for the abundance.   But it is better to live in poverty with strong faith in Jesus than to live in wealth without it. Fix your eyes, hearts, and affections on Him regardless of what you are going through. Have faith in His promises at all times. This is what will please the Lord more than anything else.   Lord God, help us to be people of faith, not just when things are going well, but at all times. May our lives and actions be honoring of You while we walk in faith, anxiously anticipating what lies ahead. To Your glory, we pray. Amen.

What happens when the Holy Spirit of God truly grips your soul?We often use the word "conviction" flippantly to describe our personal opinions on politics, money, or lifestyle. But true biblical conviction isn't an opinion you hold; it is a reality that holds you. It is the Holy Spirit dismantling our excuses, proving us wrong before God, and revealing that our only remedy is Jesus Christ.In this powerful message, we journey from the historic streets of South Carolina - where a young boy named John Merritt set out to interrupt the great evangelist George Whitefield but ended up overwhelmed by the power of the Gospel - to the battle-hardened heart of a Vietnam veteran brought to his knees by grace.Diving into John 16:7-11 (Jesus' Farewell Discourse), we unpack the three specific things the Holy Spirit comes to convict the world of:Sin - Because we try to justify ourselves instead of placing our faith in Jesus.Righteousness - Because Christ is the ultimate standard, and our only hope is "The Great Exchange."Judgment - Because the ruler of this world has already been judged, Jesus' mission is one of urgent salvation.If you have been running headlong, trying to keep your life behind a paywall or a locked door, listen closely. Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your heart.Connect with First Baptist Starkville: https://bit.ly/3M4mHnkSubscribe to see our latest sermons: https://bit.ly/3DxRyjHSupport this ministry and our work in Starkville, MS: https://bit.ly/44muvW0

Is there a moment in time you wish you could bottle up forever? It could be a time spent with close friends, your wedding day, or seeing your child take their first steps. These are the moments that left a lasting impression on you, so much so that you want them to last a lifetime. Well, there is a moment that you can experience that will surpass this lifetime and will remain with you forever. In today's message, Pastor Dan encourages you that when you place your faith in Jesus, you will have everlasting life. 

If you placed your faith in Jesus, we are celebrating with you!Subscribe to Our Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEHNDPb5XMkf1LyqoTU30vg Help Support and Grow our Ministry to reach people around our community and spread the love of Jesus: https://transformchurch.com/giving/ Stay connected with us through our:Transform Church Website: https://transformchurch.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformchurchnj/Plan your next in-person visit. We are located at:Rutherford Location- The Williams CenterSummer Hours: 9AM, 11AM, 1PM 15 Sylvan St, Rutherford NJLyndhurst Location- 10AM, 12PM525 Riverside Ave, Lyndhurst NJ

In 1 Timothy 1:1–11, Paul instructs Timothy to confront false teaching and guard the gospel within the church at Ephesus. Pastor Caleb Cole explains why sound doctrine matters, how speculation and hidden knowledge can distract believers from Scripture, and why Christians must carefully evaluate what they hear against the Word of God. Real love protects what saves, and Jesus is the only one who can save.Guarding the gospel is not about winning arguments or correcting people from a place of pride. Correction must come from a pure heart, a good conscience, sincere faith, and genuine love. This message also explores the proper purpose of the law, the grace that saves us through faith in Jesus, and the responsibility every believer has to share the good news that transforms hearts, families, and lives. (00:00) - Introducing the Book of 1 Timothy (01:00) - What Basketball Defense Teaches Us About Guarding (04:01) - Paul, Timothy, and the Church in Ephesus (06:56) - 1 Timothy 1:1–11 (08:53) - Real Love Protects What Saves (09:39) - Sound Doctrine Matters (11:23) - Myths, Genealogies, and Hidden Knowledge (12:21) - The Danger of the Bible Code (14:55) - When Spiritual Practices Drift from Scripture (16:56) - Stewarding the House of God (18:27) - Love Is the Goal of Correction (21:44) - The Law Exposes Sin (23:28) - Grace, Righteousness, and Spiritual Pride (28:37) - The Law Is a Mirror, Not a Savior (29:28) - The Gospel Has Been Entrusted to Us (32:54) - How the Gospel Transforms a Family

Once upon a time there was a queen named Esther. Being a queen sounds great, but sometimes it can be dangerous! What would you do if you found out someone was planning to do something bad? Listen to hear what Esther did!EstherHey parents! Use these questions as a guide to talk over this week's lesson about Esther with your child after they've watched the video service!Who was today's Bible story about?Esther. God made Esther and she loved God.What did Esther wear on her head?A crown! The crown showed everyone that Esther was a queen.One day, she heard someone was going to do something bad. Uh oh! Did Esther stop the bad thing from happening?Yes! She stopped the bad plan. Shake your head “no” because the plan was not good.Esther had to do something brave and tell the king to stop the bad plan. Can you be brave, too?Yes! God helps us be brave. Show me your strong arms because God made us to do good and brave things.Take some time to pray with your toddler. Encourage your toddler to sit with you and fold their hands, saying something like:God, thank you for loving us and wanting to be our friend. Thank you for making us. Help us do good things and be brave like Esther! We love you! Amen.Parent Encouragement - EstherHey parents! Here's something for you to be encouraged by and get ideas to bring this Bible story into your everyday conversation with your child at home!DownloadToddler Craft – Esther Character StickIn this craft, your toddler will create their own Esther Character Stick to remind them of the main character from the Bible story. God made Esther, and God made them!DownloadToddler Activity – Talk Like EstherIn this activity, your toddler will bring the craft they made to life. They will practice saying and doing things with their Esther Character Stick to remember this Bible story about Esther.DownloadToddler Coloring Page - EstherWe have a variety of coloring pages to help your child remember familiar faces from this month's lesson!DownloadNavigating Parenthood - EstherHey parents! Saddleback Parents has great training, tips, and tools to help you win. Check out this blog post all about how to foster healthy obedience in our children that comes from a place of love and respect rather than rules they follow out of obligationDownloadAt Saddleback Kids we believe every kid should be known, connected, equipped and empowered. KNOWN by another kid and a leader. CONNECTED to a group where they can grow spiritually. EQUIPPED with the tools and the knowledge to develop a strong faith in Jesus. EMPOWERED to serve others and share Jesus in the world.To sum it up, Saddleback Kids exists to connect kids to God and others while helping them live a purpose driven life.

0:00 Intro2:00 Mark E. Shaw28:00 End/Final ThoughtsStream the video library for the addiction counselor.COUNSEL — https://theaddictionconnection.thinkific.com/

Have you ever been rescued from an awkward situation? You might have had an accident, and someone comes and gives you a pair of pants.  Or perhaps you forgot someone's name, but your friend was there to remind you in the middle of the conversation. Being saved from these situations is small; it isn't life-altering.  But there is something bigger at stake that we need saving from. Today, Pastor Ken encourages you that when you place your faith in Jesus, you'll be rescued from the wrath of God. 

If God has already forgiven our sin by grace through faith in Jesus, why are we encouraged to continue asking him to forgive our debts?

It is our prayer that today's word would encourage and challenge to walk out your faith in Jesus, shine brightly in darkness and experience Kingdom impact in all you do! Stay connected with Belmont Church on our Facebook page, website or on the Church Center App.

What if the very thing we thought disqualified us from God's purpose was actually the exact tool He wanted to use? This powerful message takes us on a journey through the story of Sonny Hayes, a seasoned racer haunted by his past, who discovers that redemption isn't about erasing our history—it's about allowing God to transform it. Through the lens of Romans 8:28, we're reminded that God causes everything to work together for good for those who love Him. Sonny's story mirrors our own spiritual journey: we've all crashed, we've all failed, and we've all wondered if we've gone too far. Yet when we come to the Father through faith in Jesus, nothing is wasted. The message challenges us to see that our past is true, but it's not the truth—it doesn't have the authority to define our future. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person; the old life is gone, and a new life has begun. The beautiful paradox is that the very experiences we're most ashamed of become the testimony that helps someone else find hope. Our freedom isn't just for us—it's so we can turn around and help the next person discover that they too can be redeemed.

Ben Gerth explains that “The true gospel is the beautifiul good news that God declares sinners to be in a right relationship with himself through faith in Jesus alone, as a gift of his grace”

1. First Presidency's unified fast — Church News invitation (July 2) https://www.thechurchnews.com/members/2026/07/02/invitation-to-unified-fast-for-religious-liberty-on-sunday-july-5/ 2. First Presidency's unified fast — Church News Week in Review (July 5) https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders/2026/07/05/week-in-review-first-presidency-invites-all-to-participate-in-a-united-fast/ 3. Andy Reid narrates America250 "Music & the Spoken Word" — Church News (July 5) https://www.thechurchnews.com/living-faith/2026/07/05/tabernacle-choir-orchestra-andy-reid-america-250-music-spoken-word/ 4. Andy Reid "Music & the Spoken Word" — Deseret News (July 5) https://www.deseret.com/faith/2026/07/05/what-andy-reid-said-at-music-and-the-spoken-word/ 5. Andy Reid "Music & the Spoken Word" — Church Newsroom (July 5) https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/andy-reid-music-and-the-spoken-word 6. Coeur d'Alene Idaho & Maceió Brazil temple groundbreakings — Church News (July 6) https://www.thechurchnews.com/temples/2026/07/06/groundbreaking-dates-set-coeur-d-alene-idaho-temple-maceio-brazil-temple/ 7. Coeur d'Alene Idaho Temple groundbreaking — Church Newsroom (July 6) https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/groundbreaking-date-for-the-coeur-d-alene-idaho-temple 8. Coeur d'Alene Idaho Temple groundbreaking — KVNU (July 6) https://kvnutalk.com/groundbreaking-date-for-coeur-dalene-idaho-temple-announced/ 9. Kyle McKay / African American spirituals — Salt Lake Tribune via Ground News (July 1) https://ground.news/article/whats-the-right-way-for-latter-day-saints-to-sing-african-american-spirituals 10. Mormon Land podcast (July 8) https://mormonland.podbean.com/ 11. Utah Area Presidency water conservation — Deseret News (July 6) https://www.deseret.com/faith/2026/07/06/church-of-jesus-christ-leaders-ask-utah-members-to-conserve-water/ 12. BYU–Baylor AI-on-religion benchmark — Deseret News (July 7) https://www.deseret.com/faith/2026/07/07/byu-baylor-researchers-want-ai-to-answer-faith-questions/ 13. Elder Renlund on missionary work — Church News (July 6) https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders/2026/07/06/every-member-willing-can-do-something-elder-renlund-love-share-invite-missionary/ 14. Emily Belle Freeman MTC devotional — Church News (July 1) https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders/2026/07/01/jesus-christ-meets-people-where-and-as-they-are-president-emily-belle-freeman-missionary-training-center-devotional/ 15. 190-year-old scripture behind the fast — Church News (July 9) https://www.thechurchnews.com/leaders/2026/07/09/190-year-old-scripture-behind-religious-freedom-fast/ 16. Latter-day Saint religious freedom "evolving" — The Conversation (July 5) https://theconversation.com/v-for-2-centuries-latter-day-saints-have-revered-religious-freedom-but-their-definition-is-evolving-280782 17. Iam Tongi headlining 2026 Utah Area YSA Conference — Church News (July 2) https://www.thechurchnews.com/living-faith/2026/07/02/iam-tongi-announced-concert-headliner-2026-utah-area-ysa-conference/ 18. Church donates equipment to Jamaica hospitals — Church News (July 9) https://www.thechurchnews.com/living-faith/2026/07/09/church-donates-equipment-support-healthcare-jamaica-elder-corbitt/ 19. Latter-day Saint service across South and Central America — Church News (July 9) https://www.thechurchnews.com/living-faith/2026/07/09/south-america-service-lds-members-wheelchairs-blood-drives-animal-care/ 20. Venezuelan Latter-day Saints rebuild after earthquakes — Church News (July 8) https://www.thechurchnews.com/living-faith/2026/07/08/service-faith-in-jesus-christ-lds-venezuelans-after-deadly-earthquakes/ 21. Nauvoo Temple Visitors' Center — ChurchofJesusChristTemples.org news https://churchofjesuschristtemples.org/news/articles/ 22. Nauvoo Temple Visitors' Center — Portal SUD (Portuguese) https://portalsud.com.br/newsmith/elder-gong-dedica-novo-centro-de-visitantes-do-templo-de-nauvoo/ 23. Cody Wyoming Temple open house — ChurchofJesusChristTemples.org news https://churchofjesuschristtemples.org/news/articles/ 24. Cody Wyoming Temple status page https://churchofjesuschristtemples.org/status/ 25. Paul Oscarson obituary — Deseret News (July 7) https://www.deseret.com/faith/2026/07/07/paul-oscarson-obituary/ 26. Taylor Frankie Paul enters rehab — Deseret News (July 1) https://www.deseret.com/entertainment/2026/07/01/taylor-frankie-paul-checks-into-rehab-as-legal-disputes-continue/ 27. Taylor Frankie Paul sobriety test — Us Weekly (July 7) https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/taylor-frankie-paul-agrees-to-sobriety-test-in-tate-custody-case/ Social Media Conversations 28. Mormon News Update — July 6 episode (YouTube) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6eKJyR3LYc 29. Mormon News Update — July 8 episode (YouTube) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6o-T8cSpqn8 30. Mormon Stories — "Rasband's Big Claim" (YouTube, July 3) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T57m76bnSW0 31. Tabernacle Choir America250 livestream (YouTube, July 5) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocoCury6TsM 32. r/latterdaysaints — "Fast Sunday tomorrow" (Reddit, July 4) https://www.reddit.com/r/latterdaysaints/comments/1unlfva/fast_sunday_tomorrow/ 33. @sltrib on X/Twitter https://x.com/sltrib 34. Church unified-fast post (Facebook) https://www.facebook.com/ChurchofJesusChrist/posts/as-part-of-the-united-states-250th-anniversary-observance-members-in-the-united-/1582406823246526/ 35. Church America250 reel (Instagram, July 4) https://www.instagram.com/reel/DaYMCjwBcWF/

Welcome to Mysterious Universe Season 36 episode 01! Kicking this fresh new season off with a look at the uber-religious view of what happens after they die. Christians believe that death is not the end, but the beginning of an eternal existence based on faith in Jesus. The afterlife centers on the promise of a restored, perfect world-often described as a renewed Earth-where believers experience unhindered joy, total healing, and the continual presence of God. Today, we talk death, dying, and your right to die. That includes a 30-minute-in-heaven near-death trip to a crystal city in the sky to hang out with super Jesus. Only to be pulled back into your body by a death-rebuking reverend, who you asked to be there. Hold onto your belief systems as we talk “Beyond and Back”, with some near-death-experiencing , after-life visiting Christian's. In our Plus+ extension we go into Walter Russell's The Secret of Light. Russell's classic workpresents a vision of reality where consciousness, not matter, is the foundation of the universe. We attempt to present his ideas about Light, balance, electricity, cycles, and the wave nature of creation, exploring a worldview that attempts to unite science, spirituality, and philosophy into one broad explanation of existence. Beyond and Back: Those Who Died and Lived to Tell It! Fae of the Ferns on TikTok The Gnostic Epic of Mary Magdalene and Pistis Sophia Ralph Wilkerson Endorses David Diga Hernandez KAREN ANN QUINLAN, 31, DIES; FOCUS OF '76 RIGHT TO DIE CASE The Secret of Light by Walter Russell  LinksPlus+ ExtensionThe extension of the show is EXCLUSIVE to Plus+ Members. To join. click HERE.Links Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us to hear a story of the God who relentlessly pursues. It’s Garry Ingraham’s story. It’s a story that reveals what the church doesn’t often do well regarding sexual sin or identity struggles. More importantly, it’s a story of how the church can be far better — equipped to live in love and truth through strength and compassion; inviting broken people into genuine and growing relationships with Jesus and His authentic community. Learn how we find our identity in authentic faith in Jesus.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Find your place in Revelation chapter seven. In this chapter we find two groups of people. The first are 144,000 Jews, that will be saved during the Tribulation Period.The second are Tribulation saints. People that will come to faith in Jesus during the Tribulation, and will be martyred for their faith. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1368/29?v=20251111

If you placed your faith in Jesus, we are celebrating with you!Subscribe to Our Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEHNDPb5XMkf1LyqoTU30vg Help Support and Grow our Ministry to reach people around our community and spread the love of Jesus: https://transformchurch.com/giving/ Stay connected with us through our:Transform Church Website: https://transformchurch.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformchurchnj/Plan your next in-person visit. We are located at:Rutherford Location- The Williams Center8:30AM, 10:15AM, 12PM, 1:45PM15 Sylvan St, Rutherford NJLyndhurst Location- 10AM, 12PM525 Riverside Ave, Lyndhurst NJ

In today's episode, Madi sits down with her new friend, Lily Meschi, who was born and raised in Iran in a Muslim family before moving to the United States. Together, they have an honest conversation about what life was really like for Lily growing up in Iran, the realities many women face behind closed doors, and the questions that ultimately led her to explore Christianity and surrender her life to Jesus. They also discuss the true cost of converting from Islam, why faith can be such a dangerous topic in certain parts of the world, and the difference between simply knowing about God and having a genuine relationship with Him. Madi and Lily also dive into the current tensions and conflict in the Middle East, address common misconceptions about the Iranian people, and explore how Christians can engage these conversations with both biblical truth and Christlike compassion. This is one of those conversations that will challenge your perspective, deepen your faith, and stay with you long after it ends. As always... be sure to stay you and stay true!   Topics we dive into: -What is life really like in Iran today? -Why are so many people coming to faith in Jesus in Iran? -What does it truly cost someone to leave Islam? -How should Christians think about the conflict in the Middle East? -What does it mean to have a personal relationship with Jesus instead of simply knowing about God?   Helpful Resources: More from Lily: https://iranalive.org/who-we-are/ Dare To Be True by Madison Prewett Troutt: https://a.co/d/gdfpHX5 Stay True Website: https://www.staytruepodcast.com Stay True Merch: https://www.staytruepodcast.com/merch Better Help: This show is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at BetterHelp.com/STAYTRUE. Branch Basics: Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code STAYTRUE at https://branchbasics.com/STAYTRUE #branchbasicspod Liberty Healthshare: Learn more at libertyhealthshare.org.  GCU: Visit gcu.edu to learn more.   Connect with Stay True!

Understanding the "fear of the Lord" begins with recognizing God's character. Proverbs 8:13 reminds us that reverence for God is not about living in constant terror but about honoring Him so deeply that we reject what He calls evil. As we grow in our relationship with Christ, obedience becomes less about fear of punishment and more about love, trust, and respect for the One who is perfectly holy and perfectly good. This devotion encourages believers to move beyond a distorted view of God as someone waiting for them to fail. Instead, Scripture reveals a Father who calls His children to walk in wisdom, love, and holiness. Genuine reverence for God transforms our hearts, shaping the way we speak, make decisions, and respond to temptation because we desire to reflect His character. Highlights: Reverence for God grows out of knowing His holy and loving character Respecting the Lord leads us to reject pride, evil, and sinful behavior Obedience is rooted in love for Christ, not merely fear of consequences God's desire is to draw His people closer, not push them away through intimidation A healthy view of God inspires joyful faithfulness and spiritual growth Join the Conversation When you hear the phrase "fear the Lord," what comes to mind? How has your understanding of God's character shaped the way you approach Him in worship, obedience, and everyday life? Continue the conversation with the Crosswalk community here: https://forums.crosswalk.com/ Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: What it Means to Respect the LordBy Vivian Bricker Bible Reading:“To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech” (Proverbs 8:13). Many of us grew up hearing about the fear of the Lord. As someone who did not grow up in the church, I didn't hear about this until much later. However, I can imagine the anxiety it raised in the hearts of children. The idea of fearing the Lord suggests that we are supposed to be afraid of Him. When we look at the Bible, we don't see Jesus as a scary, fear-mongering God. Instead, we see Him being born into the world as an innocent baby on one silent night (Luke 2:11). Fearing the Lord has bred many problems within preaching as well as theology in general. This is because far too many people take fear to literally mean being afraid—and this is a completely reasonable conclusion to draw. Some translations include footnotes to guide the reader; however, for most of us who are reading the New International Version or the King James Version, the word remains “fear.” When I was in Bible college, a professor went over this exact issue. Anytime the Bible uses the phrase “the fear of the Lord,” it refers to respecting the Lord. My professor said a more accurate understanding of these passages would be “the respect of the Lord.” To respect Him is to love Him. While many people will continue to preach the message of fear, we must remember that fear doesn't last… love does. If someone places faith in Jesus and follows Him out of fear, their faith will not stand. They will only be obeying Him because they fear Him. With time, their obedience will waver because they won't be afraid of Him anymore. However, if a person loves God and respects Him out of this love, their conversion will be true. Their obedience to Him will also show up in their daily life because they are walking in true love and respect for the Lord. They won't fear the Lord because they know Jesus is not “out to get them” or waiting for them to fall. Far too many believers think this is how God works, but it is not true. God is not a mean God who tries to get you to mess up. The person who does this is the devil. God is the one who is standing by your side, supporting you, encouraging you, and lifting you up (Romans 8:31). Intersecting Faith & Life: The Bible says, “To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech” (Proverbs 8:13). Once again, rather than understanding this passage as “To fear the Lord,” we are to know it means “To respect the Lord.” Therefore, to respect the Lord is to hate evil. The Lord hates evil, pride, arrogance, and perverse speech. Those who adhere to these practices will be brought to judgment. Those who continue down this wicked road, ignore God's wisdom, and fail to seek it will pay the due penalties. Folly and wickedness will lead to falling, separation from God, and an eternity of pain. As Christ followers, we should have the highest respect for God. Respecting Him means we don't take part in evil or wicked schemes. Instead, we will obey Him. Jesus tells us, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). The Lord’s teachings are nourishment to our bones and will fill our hearts with extraordinary joy. If the fear of the Lord has brought you away from God, allow this new understanding to give you renewed hope. God doesn't want you to fear Him. Rather, He wants you to love Him and to respect Him. By doing this, you will follow Him all your days, continue to grow in Him, and help others to know about Him. Did you hear about the fear of the Lord growing up? Did it affect you negatively? How might you start learning what it means to respect the Lord rather than to fear Him? Further Reading: Psalm 145:8 Proverbs 6:16-19 Ecclesiastes 12:13 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

EP 296: The FIFA World Cup has captivated America and the World like never before—and we're here for it! ⚽

If you placed your faith in Jesus, we are celebrating with you!Subscribe to Our Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEHNDPb5XMkf1LyqoTU30vg Help Support and Grow our Ministry to reach people around our community and spread the love of Jesus: https://transformchurch.com/giving/ Stay connected with us through our:Transform Church Website: https://transformchurch.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformchurchnj/Plan your next in-person visit. We are located at:Rutherford Location- The Williams Center8:30AM, 10:15AM, 12PM, 1:45PM15 Sylvan St, Rutherford NJLyndhurst Location- 10AM, 12PM525 Riverside Ave, Lyndhurst NJ

As we celebrate our nation's freedom, we're reminded that the greatest mission isn't just defending our beliefs—it's boldly living and sharing our faith in Jesus. In this message from our Against the Grain series, discover how ordinary people can make an extraordinary impact by embracing their identity as disciples, courageously sharing their story, and living on mission for Christ, no matter the cost. Subscribe to be notified of new videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/ValleyRealLife Follow us on Instagram: @valleyreallife Like us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/valleyreallife Take your next step and connect with us: http://www.vrl.church/connect Are you ready to say YES to following Jesus?: http://www.vrl.church/connect Submit a prayer request: http://www.vrl.church/prayer Partner with us: http://www.vrl.church/give #ValleyRealLife2026 #ValleyRealLifeRecap #ValleyRealLifeQuestions #Bible #ValleyRealLifeChurch #ValleyRealLife #VRL #DanShields #Spokane #SpokaneValley #ChurchinSpokane #OnlineChurchSpokane #OnlineChurch #OnlineChurchService #ChurchSpokane #ChurchSpokaneValley #FaithThatLasts #SpiritualGrowth #YoureInvited #SermonSeries #ChurchOnline #againstthegrain #independenceday #freedom #onmissionforChrist

Send us a message!We move from Acts into Paul's letters by starting Galatians, the earliest letter we have from him, and we put it back into its real-world context in the Galatia region. We read Galatians 1–2 and track Paul's fierce warning against a distorted gospel that adds law-keeping to faith in Jesus. • reading the New Testament in chronological order from Luke to Acts to Paul's letters • why Galatians is written to multiple churches in a region, not one city • the conflict over circumcision and the law of Moses for Gentile believers • Paul's claim that his gospel comes by revelation, not human approval • “no other gospel” and why adding requirements twists the message of grace • Titus as a test case for freedom in Christ • Paul confronting Peter over hypocrisy and pressure from insiders • justification by faith in Christ rather than works of the law • modern “Jesus plus” warnings, including politics and ideology mixed with Bible language  At outloudbible.com, you can find free resources to help you study the Bible. And while you're there, send us a message to say hi, or start a conversation about having us at your church or event. If Outloud Bible has been a valuable part of your understanding of the Bible, please consider supporting the ministry by visiting outloudbible.com.Support the showCheck out outloudbible.com for helpful study resources, and to discover how to bring the public reading of God's word to your church, conference, retreat, or other event.

0:00 Intro2:00 Mark E. Shaw8:00 End/Final ThoughtsFollow the McMurry's: https://www.facebook.com/cj.mcmurryStream the video library for the addiction counselor.COUNSEL — https://theaddictionconnection.thinkific.com/

It is our prayer that today's word would encourage and challenge to walk out your faith in Jesus, shine brightly in darkness and experience Kingdom impact in all you do! Stay connected with Belmont Church on our Facebook page, website or on the Church Center App.

What did Jesus actually accomplish on the cross? Why does His death and resurrection still change lives today? In this biblical message, we explore 15 powerful Gospel truths that reveal what Jesus accomplished through His sacrifice and resurrection. From complete forgiveness to a new identity in Christ, this sermon will deepen your understanding of God's grace and remind you of the incredible freedom available through faith in Jesus. Whether you've followed Christ for years or you're just beginning to ask questions about Christianity, this message points back to the heart of the Gospel. In this sermon you'll discover: • Why Jesus paid the penalty for our sin • What it means to be completely forgiven • How God's love was fully demonstrated at the cross • Your new identity as a child of God • The freedom Jesus purchased for every believer Key Scripture: Galatians 5:1 — "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free." If this message encouraged you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who needs the hope, forgiveness, and freedom found in Jesus Christ. #Jesus #Gospel #TheCross #FreedomInChrist #ChristianSermon #BibleTeaching #Faith #Grace #Forgiveness #Resurrection #ChristianLiving

Revelation 14:6–20The Messages of the Three Angels[6] Then I saw another angel flying directly overhead, with an eternal gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people. [7] And he said with a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come, and worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.”[8] Another angel, a second, followed, saying, “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great, she who made all nations drink the wine of the passion of her sexual immorality.”[9] And another angel, a third, followed them, saying with a loud voice, “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives a mark on his forehead or on his hand, [10] he also will drink the wine of God's wrath, poured full strength into the cup of his anger, and he will be tormented with fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. [11] And the smoke of their torment goes up forever and ever, and they have no rest, day or night, these worshipers of the beast and its image, and whoever receives the mark of its name.”[12] Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus.[13] And I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!”The Harvest of the Earth[14] Then I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and seated on the cloud one like a son of man, with a golden crown on his head, and a sharp sickle in his hand. [15] And another angel came out of the temple, calling with a loud voice to him who sat on the cloud, “Put in your sickle, and reap, for the hour to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is fully ripe.” [16] So he who sat on the cloud swung his sickle across the earth, and the earth was reaped.[17] Then another angel came out of the temple in heaven, and he too had a sharp sickle. [18] And another angel came out from the altar, the angel who has authority over the fire, and he called with a loud voice to the one who had the sharp sickle, “Put in your sickle and gather the clusters from the vine of the earth, for its grapes are ripe.” [19] So the angel swung his sickle across the earth and gathered the grape harvest of the earth and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. [20] And the winepress was trodden outside the city, and blood flowed from the winepress, as high as a horse's bridle, for 1,600 stadia. (ESV)

Ben Zobrist played 14 seasons in the big leagues with the Rays, A's, Royals and Cubs. He played in three World Series with three different teams, winning in 2015 with KC and 2016 with the Chicago Cubs. He was the 2016 World Series MVP.Today on the podcast, Ben Zobrist reflects on the Chicago Cubs World Series championship 10 years later, his new book "Prepare for the Pressure," the role his faith in Jesus has played in his life and how he was able to overcome anxiety and depression after the Cubs won the World Series. Have a question? Got a guest suggestion? Want to advertise with us? Email us - jason@sportsspectrum.comWATCH all of our podcast episodes on our YouTube page:https://www.youtube.com/SportsSpectrumMagazineSign up for our Sports Spectrum Magazine and receive 15% off a 1-year subscription by using the code PODCAST15https://www.theincrease.com/products/sports-spectrum-magazine Do you know Christ personally? Click below to learn how you can commit your life to Him.https://sportsspectrum.com/gospel/