Podcasts about following christ

Following Christ means having an active faith and loving others without holding back.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 Matthew 21 opens with Jesus's Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem—his coronation as King. Pastor Karl unpacks why this moment was unlike any earthly coronation: a king who arrived not on a warhorse but on a humble donkey, fulfilling prophecies spoken generations earlier through Isaiah, Zechariah, and Daniel. As King, Jesus fulfills God's mission, exercises God's authority, restores proper worship according to God's Word, and extends God's compassion. From the crowds shouting "Hosanna" to Jesus clearing the temple of corruption, this passage reveals a King who demands total allegiance while never withholding compassion from those who come to Him in need. 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

Following Christ is a lifelong journey that requires us to keep going when life gets difficult, plans don't work, and people disappoint us. In the power of the Spirit, we learn to travel light, stop trying to control every outcome, develop a thicker skin, and care more about God's opinion than everyone else's.

In “The Light-Armed Soldier,” we are challenged to recognize that the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Following Christ as our ultimate Forerunner means becoming men who are prepared, available, and willing to lead from the front—going to the work, searching for those God is preparing, and making a way for others to follow. We are called to lay aside the weights that hinder our availability, intentionally position our lives for Kingdom service, and multiply ourselves by raising up faithful laborers. The message is a call to become light-armed soldiers who are ready to go when the Spirit says, “Go.”

Fr. David Gunter, MIC, reflects on how attachment to the self can become a serious obstacle in our relationship with God. When we become too absorbed in ourselves: our comfort, our interests, our image, or our need for self-protection, we can become unwilling to hear the truth and unable to recognize what Jesus is asking of us.Following Christ requires us to move beyond self-interest and learn the way of generous self-giving. Jesus invites us to let go of what keeps us attached to ourselves, to turn away from evil, and to open our hearts to the needs of others, especially the poor.True love does not treat people as objects or use them for personal gain. Rather, love gives freely and generously. When we surrender ourselves to God and trust in His providence, we discover that His generosity is greater than anything we could hold onto for ourselves.This is at the heart of Christian love: generous self-giving. God calls us not only to give, but to give with joy. He wants us to be cheerful givers, trusting that whatever we offer in love will never be lost, because God Himself will take care of us and reward us with His love.Readings for August 10h 2026: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/080626.cfm© 2026 Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. All rights reserved. ★ Support this podcast ★

“Following Christ is not a once-in-a-lifetime decision but an everyday choice.” Pastor Bankie teaches that when distress comes, we must not run to distractions or excuse disobedience, but turn to the Lord, seek Him, and obey His word. He emphasizes that “grace” trains through correction and light for everyday faithfulness.

Today, Spencer Dalke discusses with Jac Marino Chen her remarkable journey from New Age spirituality, occult practices, astrology, tarot, and ritual magic to faith in Jesus Christ. Drawing from her personal story, Chen explains how ideas like manifestation, the law of attraction, crystal healing, and spiritual awakening can deceive people into darkness, while highlighting the life-changing power of Scripture, the Gospel, and biblical truth. If you've ever wondered about the rise of New Age beliefs, the spiritual realities behind the occult, or how Christians can lovingly engage those searching for meaning, this compelling conversation offers insight, hope, and practical wisdom for navigating today's spiritual landscape.  What is New Age spirituality?  Chen's story finding and exiting the New Age movement.  Following Christ from darkness into freedom and grace.  “They used Bible verses in rituals. I thought, ‘I'm really getting to know God.' That's why I say this all the time: It's so important to read the Bible for yourself and to be biblically literate.”  “I started ravenously reading [Scripture] from Genesis to Revelation. In New Age [spirituality], it's this endless quest for knowledge. I'm a seeker but never arriving. But in Christ, all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden.”  Featured work: Ensnared: Overcoming the Darkness of the New Age and Occult with the Light of God's Truth  Connect with Jac Marino Chen at JacMarino.com and on YouTube, Instagram, and more.  For more faith-filled, Gospel-centered content, download the Pilgrim Radio app today on Google Play and Apple, or stream at PilgrimRadio.com. 

What if the direction you've been searching for isn't found in a better plan—but in a better Guide?This week on This Is Kingdom, Talon, TJ, Grace, and Hollis dive into Elder Karl D. Hirst's General Conference message, "Choose Jesus Christ as Your Guide." Together they discuss what it means to follow Christ's footsteps, trust His direction, embrace repentance without shame, and become the kind of disciple others can confidently follow.Whether you're feeling lost, overwhelmed by life's decisions, or simply trying to stay on the covenant path, this conversation is a reminder that you don't have to create your own way—Jesus Christ has already prepared it.

What if the direction you've been searching for isn't found in a better plan—but in a better Guide?This week on This Is Kingdom, Talon, TJ, Grace, and Hollis dive into Elder Karl D. Hirst's General Conference message, "Choose Jesus Christ as Your Guide." Together they discuss what it means to follow Christ's footsteps, trust His direction, embrace repentance without shame, and become the kind of disciple others can confidently follow.Whether you're feeling lost, overwhelmed by life's decisions, or simply trying to stay on the covenant path, this conversation is a reminder that you don't have to create your own way—Jesus Christ has already prepared it.

Compass Classroom is a ministry of Compass Bible Church Treasure Valley.For more information about Compass Bible Church go to https://www.compassbible.tv/To follow our daily Bible reading plan and podcast go to https://www.revivalfromthebible.com/

Stoning Stephen? Jesus: King and high priest; What the Pharisees had wrong about Moses; "Leaven"; "Circumcision" ritual; Witchcraft; Unmooring metaphor from meaning; Tree of Life; Justin's apology explaining how the kingdom works; Pliny the younger; Scillitan martyrs trials; Conflict between Christianity and the "world"; Christ's government; "word": rhema vs logos; Genius of Jesus; Yeast?; Christian checklist; Mystery (Secret) Babylon; Idolatry; Terah; Melchizedek (Righteous king); Old testament long lifespans; Blessing of Abraham; Human resources; Is Jesus Christ your king?; Do you eat at the table of another?; Benefits; Benefactors; "Temples"; Swearing by the genius of Caesar; "Son of God"?; "Religion"; Government dole; Reward of unrighteousness; Freewill offerings; Charity; "Corban"; vs forced offerings; Deception; Cursing leaders; Doing what Christ said to do; Prov 1:14 One purse; Ownership of YOU; NY Muslims and Communists?; Prov 23:1; Imaginary wisdom; Humility; Christ's coming upon a cloud - to Caiaphas; Ananias?; Privy council?; Appetite for benefits; Seek His kingdom and righteousness - First; Following Christ's commands; Reasons God won't hear you; Repentance; "We the People"; Your salvation?; The "name" of Jesus; New testament prophecy; Ez 11:3; "Israel?"; Civil law; Micah 3:3; Flesh eating?; Following the money; Children of Israel; Sitting in faith; Bless/pray for leaders; Ex 22:28; "gods"; Violating God's law; Commissioner of care; The way back; Becoming Israel; Caring via faith, hope and charity; Loving neighbor as self; Lev 19:14; Stumbling block; Biting one another; Letting God open your eyes; Choosing good and righteousness; Mt 5:44 loving your enemies; Lk 6:28; Rom 12:14; 1 Cor 4:12; James 3:10; 1 Pe 3:9; Judging?; Usurping God; Jude 1:11 going after the way of Cain, Balaam, Core; Lk 16:9; "mammon"; Trusting Caesar; or Trusting Christ; Holy Spirit guidance; Mt 5:19; Not Okay to eat at table of rulers; Leaven = oppression; 2 Cor 6:14; Saving others; 1 Cor 6:9; No forcing; Avoid covetous practices.

You can go to church, pray, serve and do all the right things, but is it possible to still miss the heart of following Jesus? In Acts 6-7, Stephen shows us what a life fully surrendered to Jesus looks like. Facing rejection, opposition and ultimately death, Stephen remained rooted in God's Word, connected to God's heart and trusting in God's timing. In this message, Dave Stone reminds us that religious activity is no substitute for a real relationship with Jesus. Following Christ isn’t simply about what we do for Him. It’s about knowing Him, trusting Him and allowing that relationship to shape how we live, especially when life gets difficult. Stephen’s story challenges us to consider whether our faith has become a routine or whether we’re truly walking with Jesus. Whatever adversity or opposition you’re facing, God isn’t finished. Keep going, trust His timing and finish the race strong.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9 Biblical courage is not bravado or self-confidence. It is faithfulness rooted in the presence and promises of God. That kind of courage matters in every area of life—including the way we handle money. Following Christ may require us to give when we would rather hold tightly, resist cultural pressures, act with integrity when compromise would be easier, or obey God when doing so comes at a personal cost. Dr. Craig Bartholomew, Director of the Kirby Laing Centre for Public Theology in Cambridge, England, joined the show today to close out our Financial Virtues series to explore the virtue of fortitude and what it means for faithful stewardship. More Than a Moment of Bravery When we hear the word courage, we may picture dramatic acts of bravery. Scripture certainly includes those moments. Joshua needed courage as he prepared to lead Israel into the Promised Land. But fortitude is broader than courage in a single crisis. It is resilience. Resolve. Endurance. The Christian life is less like a sprint and more like a marathon. Fortitude is the strength to continue following Christ over a lifetime—to remain faithful not only in dramatic moments, but also through the ordinary decisions, pressures, disappointments, and temptations we encounter every day. That distinction matters because some of the most important acts of courage in our financial lives may never look heroic to anyone else. It may mean living below your means when everyone around you is upgrading their lifestyle. It may mean refusing a dishonest opportunity even when the money is attractive. It may mean continuing to give generously when fear tells you to hold tighter. Fortitude is the courage to keep choosing faithfulness. When Money Becomes Our Security Money has a way of exposing what we fear. We fear not having enough. We fear an uncertain future. We fear losing the lifestyle we have built. We may fear falling behind others or disappointing the people around us. But the deeper question is this: Where have we placed our security? If our identity, security, or sense of worth rests primarily in wealth, then anything that threatens our finances can begin to threaten our sense of self. That is a burden money was never meant to carry. Scripture continually redirects our trust away from created things and toward the Creator. Money is a good gift and a useful tool, but it makes a terrible foundation for our identity. Christian fortitude begins by remembering who we are and whose we are. Our ultimate security is not found in the size of an investment account, the value of a home, or the stability of an income. It is found in God, who promises to remain faithful to His people. That does not mean financial losses or uncertainty become easy. It means fear no longer has the final word. Jesus Shows Us What Courage Looks Like Jesus gives us the clearest picture of true fortitude. At the beginning of His public ministry, Satan tempted Him in the wilderness, offering shortcuts to power and glory that would bypass the path of suffering and obedience. Jesus refused. He remained faithful to the Father and continued toward the cross. His courage was not merely displayed in one final moment. It characterized His entire life—a steady obedience to the Father regardless of the cost. That same pattern should shape His followers. Money can easily become one of the competing loyalties of our hearts. Jesus repeatedly warned about the spiritual danger of wealth when it moves from being a tool we steward to a treasure we worship. Money must remain in its proper place. Fortitude helps us keep it there. Generosity Requires Courage One way we loosen money's grip on our hearts is through generosity. Giving shifts our attention away from ourselves and toward God and our neighbors. Rather than asking only, “What can this money do for me?” generosity teaches us to ask, “How might God use what He has entrusted to me to serve someone else?” Sometimes that requires real courage. Giving can confront our desire for control. It can challenge our instinct to accumulate more before deciding we finally have “enough.” It may require us to trust God with what happens after we release what we have been holding. But generosity reminds us that life is not ultimately about us. As we put God first, He turns our attention outward—to the neighbor down the street, the family facing hardship, the ministry serving people in need, or even someone across the world whose circumstances are far different from our own. Fortitude gives us the courage to hold God's provision with open hands. The Courage to Choose Integrity Fortitude also matters when faithfulness costs us financially. There may be moments when telling the truth threatens a business opportunity, refusing to compromise means walking away from profit, or acting justly puts us at a disadvantage. Those moments require more than good intentions. They require discernment to recognize what is right—and courage to do it. Our culture constantly communicates messages about success, wealth, status, and power. Christians must learn to examine those messages carefully rather than simply accepting the assumptions around us. Not everything profitable is good. Not everything financially advantageous is wise. And not everything considered normal in our culture is consistent with following Jesus. Fortitude enables us to remain faithful when obedience becomes costly. Courage Is Cultivated in Community Christian courage should never become another form of self-reliance. We can be extremely determined about the wrong things. That is why fortitude must be shaped by wisdom, discernment, prayer, Scripture, and Christian community. We need other believers who can help us recognize blind spots, challenge our assumptions, and remind us of what is true when fear begins to distort our perspective. This is especially important with money. Financial decisions can be complex, and our hearts can easily rationalize what we already want. Wise counsel helps us discern where genuine stewardship ends and where fear, greed, pride, or self-interest may be taking over.  The goal is not simply to become more resilient. It is to become resilient in following Jesus. A Long Obedience in the Same Direction Most of us will face moments when courage is urgently required. But much of Christian fortitude is formed in thousands of smaller choices. Choosing generosity again. Choosing integrity again. Choosing contentment again. Choosing to trust God again. Faithful stewardship is not built through one extraordinary financial decision. It is shaped over a lifetime of ordinary obedience. That is fortitude: not the absence of fear, but the courage to remain faithful because we know the One who is with us wherever we go. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: What's the process for setting up a trust for my children, and do I need an attorney to do it? Is it best for a husband and wife to share a checking account? If so, how can we manage it well and avoid conflict? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Ecclesiastes (Baker Commentary on the Old Testament) by Dr. Craig G. Bartholomew Money and Marriage God's Way by Howard Dayton FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough?  Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jesus never promised that following Him would be easy. Instead, He invited people to honestly consider what discipleship would require.In this message from The Invitation series, John Gunter walks through Luke 14, where Jesus challenges His followers to count the cost before committing their lives to Him. Through practical examples and biblical teaching, we're reminded that discipleship is not about adding Jesus to an already full schedule. It's about making Him the highest priority from which every other decision flows.Following Christ costs something, but nothing compares to the surpassing worth of knowing Him.Key Themes: Following Jesus requires reordered priorities.  Small daily decisions shape our spiritual lives.  Discipleship is intentional, not accidental.  Every area of life should be surrendered to God.  Christ is worth every sacrifice. Key Scriptures: Luke 14:25-35  Matthew 16:24-26  Philippians 3:7-11  Romans 12:1-2 Eagle Community Church of Christ Mont Belvieu, TexasLoving God. Loving People. Following Jesus.

Great Consolation in Obeying and Following Christ // Luke 7:28-35 by Tri-State Community Church

Preached By Prophet Kofi Oduro of Alabaster International Ministry on 26th July 2026 at the W3 Service

Compass Classroom is a ministry of Compass Bible Church Treasure Valley.For more information about Compass Bible Church go to https://www.compassbible.tv/To follow our daily Bible reading plan and podcast go to https://www.revivalfromthebible.com/

What would happen if God showed up in our town? Zacchaeus' life was changed, showing Jesus' redeeming power. In this message, Pastor Lutzer discusses how Jesus moves us from radical confession, to conversion, to being commissioned. When we're changed by Jesus, we can't help but share the good news with others.  This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

Guided Question How has God uniquely gifted you to serve others, and are you actively using those gifts to strengthen Christ's body—or are you content to simply attend church without engaging in His mission? Summary In this message, Dr. Robert Lewis walks through 1 Corinthians 12, explaining that the church is not merely an organization that runs programs but a living, supernatural body empowered by the Holy Spirit. Every believer receives spiritual gifts—not natural talents—to serve others, strengthen the church, and advance God's kingdom. These gifts are sovereignly distributed by the Holy Spirit and are meant to be exercised for the benefit of the whole body, not for personal recognition or spiritual status. Lewis highlights five foundational truths about spiritual gifts: they are given by the Holy Spirit, they vary among believers, they are distributed according to God's will, they provide believers with a unique place of ministry, and they ultimately call Christians to die to self in order to serve others. Discovering and faithfully using one's spiritual gift gives purpose, identity, and balance to the Christian life. The sermon then addresses the often-debated sign gifts—particularly miracles and healing. While acknowledging common arguments that some miraculous gifts ceased after the apostolic age, Lewis concludes that Scripture does not require that position. Instead, he believes God remains free to grant these gifts if He chooses, though any genuine manifestation must align with the biblical pattern and never contradict Scripture. Examining the New Testament, Lewis distinguishes miracles from healings and argues that biblical miracles primarily authenticated God's revelation, while biblical healings were instantaneous, complete, undeniable, and publicly verifiable. He expresses skepticism toward many modern healing ministries because they often lack these biblical characteristics, while affirming that God still answers prayer and sovereignly heals according to His will. Lewis concludes by returning to Paul's central message: the church flourishes only when every believer discovers and faithfully exercises the spiritual gifts God has given them. A Spirit-filled church is marked not by impressive programs or religious ritual, but by ordinary believers serving one another through the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit. Outline The supernatural nature of the church Five foundational truths about spiritual gifts Discovering your God-given identity through ministry Spiritual gifts require self-denial and servant-hearted living Are the sign gifts still active today? Biblical perspectives on miracles and healing The difference between God's healing and the gift of healing The church's call to use every believer's spiritual gifts Key Takeaways The Church Is a Living Body — The church is a supernatural organism empowered by the Holy Spirit, not merely an institution or organization. Every Believer Has a Spiritual Gift — The Holy Spirit sovereignly gives each Christian unique gifts to strengthen the body of Christ. Your Gift Gives You Purpose — Discovering and using your spiritual gift provides identity, direction, and meaningful ministry within the church. Ministry Requires Dying to Self — Spiritual gifts are never for self-promotion but for serving others in humility and sacrifice. God Is Sovereign Over Spiritual Gifts — While Scripture allows for God to work miraculously today, every claimed gift or miracle must be measured against biblical truth. God Still Heals — Though Lewis questions many modern healing ministries, he affirms that God continues to answer prayer and heal according to His sovereign will. A Healthy Church Is a Serving Church — The church reaches its fullest strength when every believer actively employs their spiritual gifts to serve others. Scripture References 1 Corinthians 12 — Spiritual gifts are given by the Holy Spirit to build up Christ's body. 1 Corinthians 14 — Greater emphasis should be placed on gifts that edify the whole church. Romans 12:1–8 — Present yourself as a living sacrifice and faithfully use your spiritual gifts. Matthew 10:1 — Jesus gives His apostles authority over unclean spirits and disease. 2 Corinthians 12:7–10 — God's grace is sufficient, even when He chooses not to remove suffering. 1 Peter 4:10 — Every believer should use their gift to serve others faithfully. Matthew 16:24–25 — Following Christ requires denying yourself and giving your life away. Recorded 7.25.82

True Comfort Comes Only by Him | Part 2Exchanging the Control We Crave for the Sovereign God We TrustGenesis 50:15-21 | King's Chapel Live StreamWhy is it so hard to let go of control?Even after our guilt has been dealt with, we often cling to the belief that peace comes from managing every outcome. We want to know how the story ends before we're willing to trust God with the next chapter.In Genesis 50, Joseph asks a simple but profound question: "Am I in the place of God?" Those words remind us that true comfort is not found in controlling our circumstances but in trusting the God who is sovereign over them.Through betrayal, false accusations, imprisonment, and years of waiting, Joseph learned that God's purposes are always greater than our plans. His life points us to Jesus, who willingly entered into suffering to accomplish our redemption and demonstrate the Father's perfect love.God's sovereignty is never separate from His goodness. The God who rules over every detail of history is the same God who gave His Son for us. If He can be trusted with our salvation, He can be trusted with every detail of our lives.Following Christ doesn't mean life will always make sense. It means we can live with confidence that the God who writes our story is perfectly wise, perfectly loving, and perfectly faithful.If you're struggling to surrender control, facing uncertainty, or wondering what God is doing in your life, this message is an invitation to find true rest in the God who is still writing your story.Connect with King's Chapel in Longwood, FL - ▶️ www.kingschapelfl.com▶️ https://www.facebook.com/KingsChapelfl▶️ https://www.instagram.com/kingschapelfl/For the GLORY of our Great GodFor the GOOD of our NeighborGenesis 50 sermon, trusting God's sovereignty, letting go of control, Joseph sermon, God is in control Bible, finding peace in uncertainty, Christian sermon on trust, Genesis Bible study, King's Chapel Longwood FL

Compass Classroom is a ministry of Compass Bible Church Treasure Valley.For more information about Compass Bible Church go to https://www.compassbible.tv/To follow our daily Bible reading plan and podcast go to https://www.revivalfromthebible.com/

Purpose of Leviticus; Melchizedek's difference; "Call no man father"; Benefactors; Mt 20:25, Mk 10:42, Lk 22:25; Exercising authority; Plutarch; Understanding Christ; "Tithing"; Lady Godiva?; Providing for the needy; Why you owe Caesar; Welfare snares; Scillitan Martyrs; Freeing the people; "Corban"; Gal 5:1; Pure Religion; "Born again?"; Are Christians free?; "ekklesia"; Gathering in Tens, Hundreds and Thousands; Gregory history stories; Lawyers and politicians; Bondage of Egypt; Understanding law; Fulfilling duties; First: Seek the kingdom and His righteousness; Learning from other peoples' mistakes; Communication with Holy Spirit; Clear evidence; Deciding fact and law; Ownership; Transfer of your rights; Delegating your responsibilities; Legal title; Who owns it?; Following Christ; What the bible actually says; Compelled welfare vs charity; Forcing your neighbor; "Hell is a collective"; Learning out of love; "Fear Not"; Jer 13:18; Rom 8:38; Principalities; Eph 3:10; "Powers"; Liberty, right to choose; Endowed rights; Eph 6:12; Encouraging righteousness; Giving consent; "exousia"; Gen 1:26 Dominion; Ps 8:4; "Not to be that way with you"; No respecter of persons; Church funding; Economics; Your salvation; Capitalism; Christian conflict; Genius of government?; Imperium; Repentance; Patriarchy; Allegiance; Roe vs Wade; Civil law; Theology of Christ; Lk 22:29; Outlawing private religion; "Kosmos"; Outlawing legal Christian activity; Government of Christians; "Essenes"; Are you putting the pieces together?; Join the Living Network.

Encountering Jesus revolutionizes our hearts and even our cities. In Jericho, Jesus met the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus. In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows parallels between Zacchaeus' transformation and recent spiritual awakenings. A true movement of God brings an entire community to its knees. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

Many of us find our quiet time with God derailed by distractions and discouragement. True intimacy with God requires fighting our temptations with Him. In this message, Pastor Lutzer discusses pushing through prayer struggles and being nourished in God's presence. What if our spiritual battles turned into moments of sweet delight? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

by Bro. Byron Fair In this sermon from the ninth chapter of Luke, Bro. Byron Fair, who recently joined Zion Primitive Baptist Church, teaches us about the importance of pressing forward in our service to Christ. Serving Christ is not a life of ease, but rather can be difficult, but when we “take up our...

If we're serious about following Jesus, eventually we'll head into the wilderness. Many of Christ's pathways were pathways of suffering. In this message, Pastor Lutzer shares about the radical commitment necessary to seek God in our deserts. What will it take to reclaim our focus and follow Christ into the desert? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

When we seek to pray, we often face a battle just like Jesus did in his own desert temptation. Jesus regularly spent time communing with His Father and submitting to His will. In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows how the desert is a place of both spiritual conflict and intimate communion. How can we find peace and satisfaction in God's presence?  This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

What does it really mean to be worthy of being Christ's disciple? In this powerful homily, Fr. Mark Baron, MIC reflects on Jesus' challenging call to put Him above every other love. Following Christ is not about loving our families less, but about loving God first so that every other relationship finds its proper place.Fr. Mark explains that authentic discipleship often comes with a cost. Living according to the Gospel may bring opposition at work, among friends, or even within our own families when we refuse to compromise our Christian values. Yet every sacrifice made for Jesus becomes a cross that leads us closer to Him. Discover how placing Christ at the center of your life transforms the way you love others and gives you the courage to remain faithful in a world that often pulls us in the opposite direction.Readings for July 13th.2026: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/071226.cfm ★ Support this podcast ★

Where did miracles go?In this episode of PF Unfiltered, PF tackles one of the biggest questions many Christians quietly ask: why does it feel like we don't see miracles the way people talk about them in Acts, revival stories, or old-school church culture?But the real answer is sharper than most people expect. PF argues that the modern church has confused the spectacular with the miraculous and in the process, we've turned Christ into a dispenser of comfort instead of the One miracles were always meant to reveal.This conversation goes straight at miracle culture, prosperity logic, emotionalism, transactional giving, and the dangerous habit of presenting Jesus as a problem solver instead of a Savior. If miracles are supposed to witness to Christ, what happens when the message is no longer Christ?In this episode:- Why PF says there is a “death of the spectacular” in the modern church- The difference between the spectacular and the miraculous- Why signs and wonders were meant to witness to Christ- How churches turn prayer, fasting, and giving into tools for material gain- Why “come to Jesus and get your problem solved” is a broken gospel- The difference between sacrificial giving and spiritual manipulationDrop your thoughts in the comments:Are miracles disappearing or are we preaching the wrong message?Chapter Markers0:00 Problem Solver vs Savior1:38 Where Did Miracles Go?3:00 The Death of the Spectacular5:00 The Greatest Miracle6:05 Miracles Witness to Christ9:10 What Are We Preaching?13:36 Prayer and Fasting Misused15:00 Selling Miracles18:02 Emotionalism in Church19:46 Consumer Christianity20:13 Sacrifice vs Manipulation24:47 Don't Borrow to Give27:00 Why Nations Stay Broken30:16 When Church Stops Being About Christ32:47 Prosperity Short-Circuits the Gospel36:14 Miracles Must Point to Christ38:54 Friends for Food40:09 Miracles Without Faith40:40 Hungry for Righteousness41:16 He's Not an Employment Agency#pfunfiltered #pastorfemi #miracles #culture #prosperity #gospel #christian #church #manipulation #signsandwonders #modernchristianity #spectacular #christianpodcast #transactionalfaith #prayerandfasting #sacrificialgiving #jesus

Compass Classroom is a ministry of Compass Bible Church Treasure Valley.For more information about Compass Bible Church go to https://www.compassbible.tv/To follow our daily Bible reading plan and podcast go to https://www.revivalfromthebible.com/

When Jesus comes to town, revival often follows. Zacchaeus' life was changed, showing Jesus' redeeming power. In this message, Pastor Lutzer discusses the realities of conversion and commission. When people are convicted of sin and restitution is made, there is true freedom and joy from being right with God.  To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29?v=20251111

When Jesus comes to town, revival often follows. Zacchaeus' life was changed, showing Jesus' redeeming power. In this message, Pastor Lutzer discusses the realities of conversion and commission. When people are convicted of sin and restitution is made, there is true freedom and joy from being right with God.  This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

Encountering Jesus revolutionizes our hearts and even our cities. In Jericho, Jesus met the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus. In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows how curiosity about Christ leads to a moment of confrontation and confession. When Jesus comes to town, we will never be the same. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29?v=20251111

Encountering Jesus revolutionizes our hearts and even our cities. In Jericho, Jesus met the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus. In this message, Pastor Lutzer shows how curiosity about Christ leads to a moment of confrontation and confession. When Jesus comes to town, we will never be the same. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

On this episode of The Common Good, Brian Fromm sits down with Quintin Wingate for an encouraging conversation about living a life of faith with purpose and perseverance. Together they discuss what it means to trust God through life's challenges, the importance of remaining grounded in Scripture, and how Christians can faithfully reflect Christ in their everyday lives. Quintin shares insights from his own journey, offering practical encouragement for anyone seeking to grow spiritually, navigate difficult seasons, and pursue God's calling with confidence. Whether you're facing uncertainty or simply looking to deepen your walk with Christ, this conversation is a reminder that God remains faithful—and our hope is always found in Him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If we're serious about following Jesus, eventually we'll leave the oasis and head into the wilderness. True intimacy with God requires fighting our temptations with Him. In this message, Pastor Lutzer explains how to overcome spiritual conflict in prayer. What if our spiritual battles turned into moments of sweet delight? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29?v=20251111

If we're serious about following Jesus, eventually we'll leave the oasis and head into the wilderness. True intimacy with God requires fighting our temptations with Him. In this message, Pastor Lutzer explains how to overcome spiritual conflict in prayer. What if our spiritual battles turned into moments of sweet delight? This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

What does it really cost to follow Jesus? In this devotion from Words From The Word, Pastor Roderick Webster of Good News Baptist Church in Sint Maarten unpacks the evidence of true salvation through the life of the Apostle Paul in Acts 9:19-29 (KJV). Drawing also from Galatians 1:17-18, 2 Peter 3:18, 1 Peter 2:2, and Luke 14:26-33, Pastor Webster walks us through what it looks like when someone truly belongs to Christ.You might be asking...- How do I know my salvation is real?- Why does following God sometimes lead to suffering?- Does God really prepare us through difficult seasons?- What does Jesus mean when He says to hate your family?Key points from this devotion:- True salvation produces spiritual growth, not spiritual stagnation- God prepares His servants through hidden, difficult seasons like Arabia, the desert, and the prison- Following Christ will cost you something — He must be first above all- The Word of God and prayer are essential fuel for growing in grace- Persecution and opposition are often signs you are doing something rightIf this devotion blessed you today, please like, leave a comment, share it with someone who needs encouragement, and subscribe so you never miss a daily word.#WordsFromTheWord #KJV #BibleDevotion #ChristianLiving #GoodNewsBaptistChurchStay connected with GNBC:

Every temptation and worry is thrown at us to hinder our time with God. When we seek to pray, we often face a battle just like Jesus did in His own desert temptation. In this message, Pastor Lutzer reveals how the desert serves as a place of conflict, communion, and commitment. Let's find out how dry places can revitalize our faith. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29?v=20251111

Every temptation and worry is thrown at us to hinder our time with God. When we seek to pray, we often face a battle just like Jesus did in His own desert temptation. In this message, Pastor Lutzer reveals how the desert serves as a place of conflict, communion, and commitment. Let's find out how dry places can revitalize our faith. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337. Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives. Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.   SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/ Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

Before becoming a Christian, Pastor Putumandi's life was, in his words, "a mess". He pursued his family's Hindu religion, dancing in temple ceremonies to access and appease the spirits. He detested anything to do with Jesus. "I hated [Christians] before." Putumandi said, "I despised Christianity." But then he met Jesus, drawn by the compassion that he saw lacking in every other religion. For Putumandi, Jesus was the only one who could guarantee eternal life, and he wanted to know Him. After being baptised, his wife could tell that he had changed as Putumandi treated his family and others with compassion, showing the love of Christ. When his family found out Putumandi had left Hinduism, they kicked him out of their home immediately. His 16-year-old son tried to kill Putumandi. Despite being driven from his home and persecuted for his Christian faith, Putumandi says he never considered going back to Hinduism. "Salvation comes from Christianity," Putumandi said. Putumandi will also share how it's been a challenge to find a job to make a living because of the Christian persecution he's faced. "I just do anything I can find," he says, "and praise the Lord; He provides." Pray for Putumandi's health, for his family to come to know the Lord, and for his continued witness to unbelievers around him, especially the people in his own family.

Sun AM

Series: Matthew for TodayPastor Mark SmithJune 28, 2026

https://youtu.be/pNjFaAf97yI https://www.uncommen.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/June-26.mp3 Why God Won't Be Hurried There is a silent but devastating epidemic actively destroying men in the modern church, and it has absolutely nothing to do with a lack of faith or a shortage of good intentions. The crisis is happening inside our own impatience — inside the gap between where we are and where we believe we are supposed to be. Far too many men are sprinting toward a destination God never told them to rush toward, grinding, straining, and forcing doors open that were never meant to open yet. We hear it in a thousand different forms: “I should be further along by now.” “Why is this taking so long?” “Lord, give me patience — and give it to me now.” They are moving fast, burning hard, and completely missing everything God is trying to build into them along the way. Waiting on God's timing is not a passive consolation prize for men who couldn't make things happen fast enough. It is an active, intentional, often brutal discipline that the most effective men in Scripture were forced to master before God trusted them with what He had promised. The modern culture of speed — same-day delivery, instant answers, 24-hour news cycles — has completely warped how men relate to divine preparation. We have been sold the lie that the straight line from A to B is always the right path. But the real question of waiting on God's timing is not “why is this taking so long?” It is “what is God preparing me to handle when I finally arrive?” Quick Answers What does waiting on God's timing mean? Waiting on God's timing means actively trusting that God's preparation process for your life is not a delay — it is the work. It means surrendering the illusion of control, bringing every burden to Him, and accepting that the straight line from where you are to where you want to be is rarely the path He ordains. Waiting on God's timing is ultimately a matter of trust, not a matter of time. How do you trust God while you are waiting? Trusting God in the waiting starts with prayer — not just for the big things, but for all of it. Men typically bring two burdens to the altar and quietly pocket the rest. Trusting God in the waiting means releasing the grip on the things you have decided you can handle without Him. That release is where the real preparation begins. The Control Trap: What You Don't Pray About, You Think You Can Handle There is a profoundly revealing pattern in how men approach prayer, and it exposes the core struggle with waiting on God's timing: we bring some things to the throne and quietly pocket the rest. We hand over the cancer diagnosis, the job loss, the broken marriage — but we hold tight to the business deal, the financial pressure, the relationship tension we are convinced we can manage ourselves. What we don't pray about, we think we can control. And that illusion — that comfortable, completely irrational sense that our grip actually changes the outcome — is one of the primary reasons that waiting on God's timing feels so brutal for men who are used to producing results. Picture yourself walking to the throne, arms absolutely overloaded with every burden, worry, and unanswered question in your life. You get there, and you set down two of them. Then you turn around and walk back out, carrying the rest. That is not trust. That is negotiation. And God is not a negotiating partner — He is a sovereign Father who happens to know that the weight you are refusing to put down is exactly the thing He needs to work on before He can release what He has for you. Biblical patience is not just about waiting quietly. It is about releasing completely. The real problem is that there is a strange comfort in control — even fake control. If you keep it, you can complain about it. If you hand it over, you lose the one thing that makes the waiting feel bearable: the belief that you are still doing something. But trusting God in the waiting means accepting that your doing is not always what moves things forward. Sometimes the most powerful thing a man can do is open his hands completely and let God work. The Straight-Line Lie: A to B Is Never the Whole Map Every man reading this has, at some point, built a completely reasonable plan in his head. Step one, step two, done. The promotion, the business, the relationship, the ministry — laid out in a clean, linear sequence. And God has, at some point, absolutely wrecked that sequence. Not out of cruelty. Out of preparation. And this is where waiting on God's timing stops being a theological concept and becomes a daily confrontation. Waiting on God's timing exposes a lie we have been telling ourselves for a long time: that the path to B is a straight line from A. It is not. God almost always has a C that you did not plan for, a D that makes no sense in the moment, and a season in the in-between that feels like a detour but is actually the whole point. The reason is devastatingly simple — there is something He needs you to do, or become, or let go of before you are ready for B. And until that happens, showing up at B would not be a blessing. It would be a catastrophe. C.S. Lewis made the point this way: you cannot recognize a straight stick until you have seen a crooked one and compared the two. The gospel will never sound like good news until a man has fully heard, and truly accepted, the bad news. The same principle applies to waiting on God's timing. The blessing He has prepared for you will not feel like a blessing if you arrive before you are equipped to receive it. The preparation — the hard part, the crooked part, the wilderness part — is not the obstacle. It is the education. The Desert and the Manna: We Are Just Like the Israelites It is easy to read about the Israelites wandering for forty years in the desert and shake your head. Forty years. For a journey that should have taken weeks. They had manna falling from the sky — literal supernatural provision — and they complained about it. They had watched God split a sea with their own eyes, and they were already building golden calves. It seems absurd from the outside. Until you realize you are standing right next to them, doing the exact same thing. Waiting on God's timing is hard because it forces a pinhole focus on the moment you are in. You cannot see the full map. You cannot see why this season is necessary, what it is producing, or how the discomfort you are experiencing right now is going to make sense when you finally look back from the promised land. All the Israelites knew was that it was hot, the manna was getting old, and there used to be fish back in Egypt. They were not consciously processing a forty-year divine education. They were just surviving Tuesday. Biblical patience is not the ability to see why the wait is worth it. It is the willingness to keep moving, keep trusting, and keep praising even when Tuesday makes absolutely no sense. Scripture anchors this truth directly in Isaiah 40:31: “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Notice that the text does not say the ones who waited perfectly, or the ones who never complained, or the ones who had the timeline figured out. Simply: the ones who wait. Waiting on God's timing is not passive resignation — it is an active, ongoing, faith-anchored position that God honors in ways we cannot see from inside the desert Trusting God in the Waiting: The Gift You Cannot Fast-Forward There is a moment in the movie “Click” when the main character gets a remote control that lets him fast-forward through the uncomfortable parts of his life. Boring meeting? Skip it. Difficult season? Gone. And before long, decades have passed, relationships have evaporated, and he has built a life full of achievements and completely empty of presence. He got to B. He just missed everything that was supposed to matter along the way. This is not just a Hollywood premise. It is exactly what impatience does to a man in real life. Trusting God in the waiting is, in large part, the discipline of refusing to fast-forward. It is the choice to be present in the season you are in — to notice the flowers that have been blooming outside your neighborhood for years that you have never once stopped to look at. Waiting on God's timing is not just about what comes at the end of the wait. It is about who you become, what you notice, and what you learn to value during it. Men who are always sprinting to the next thing never develop the capacity to steward the things they are already holding. Trusting God in the waiting also means accepting that getting a timeline in advance would not actually help. If God told you it was going to be three more years of soul-crushing difficulty, you would not feel relieved — you would immediately start negotiating. The absence of a timeline is not cruelty. It is protection. He is keeping you present, because the present is where the preparation happens. Biblical Patience: The High Ask for Men Who Follow God makes it absolutely clear throughout Scripture that a great deal is asked of those who choose to follow Him. Following Christ is not a comfort upgrade. It is a calling that costs something every single day. Biblical patience is one of the most expensive items on that list — and consistently one of the least popular. Everyone nods along when patience comes up in conversation. Nobody actually wants to practice it when waiting on God's timing for real, in the thick of it, without a finish line in sight. Waiting on God's timing asks men to trust what they cannot see, hold on to what has not arrived yet, and stop white-knuckling the things that were never in their control in the first place. That is not a small ask. That is a complete restructuring of how most men are wired to operate. We are built for momentum, for results,...

Learn how to act more like Jesus and be truly transformed by the Savior.Donate: https://store.intouch.org/donate/generalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover the five requirements of following Jesus and how to apply them in your life.Donate: https://store.intouch.org/donate/generalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The modern gospel is often presented as simple, comfortable, and requiring little sacrifice, yet Scripture paints a far more costly picture of following Christ. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar examine the dangers of easy believism and why true saving faith cannot be separated from repentance and surrender. They explain that easy believism reduces salvation to intellectual agreement or a repeated prayer, ignoring the gospel's transforming power. At the same time, they warn against moralism, in which people try to earn righteousness externally without genuine heart change. True Christianity is not merely behavior modification or empty confession but wholehearted surrender to Christ as Savior and Lord.The guys explore the relationship between justification, sanctification, and obedience. While believers are justified instantly by faith, genuine faith produces a transformed life marked by repentance and growing holiness. Scripture consistently presents the narrow path of discipleship rather than a broad and effortless road. The guys emphasize that repentance is not optional or secondary but central to the gospel message Jesus Himself preached. Grace is free, but it is never cheap, because following Christ costs believers their lives, desires, and self-rule. Salvation changes the heart, and a changed heart begins to desire obedience to God.The conversation turns to practical questions about spiritual fruit and assurance. The guys encourage believers to examine themselves and consider whether they truly hunger for righteousness or remain comfortable in ongoing sin. They explain that spiritual fruit is not about perfection but about direction, asking whether a person's heart increasingly desires Christ rather than sin. Biblical community also plays a vital role, as faithful churches help believers grow, lovingly confront sin, and encourage repentance. The guys stress that true love involves speaking the truth, even when correction is uncomfortable.Finally, the guys discuss worship and transformation, explaining that people inevitably become like whatever they behold. Everyone is worshiping something, and true worship shapes the heart toward Christlikeness. Mark reflects on moving from intellectual belief to genuine saving faith after being confronted with conviction and the reality of his sin. The guys remind listeners that salvation is entirely by grace through faith, not by human effort, yet true faith always produces change. Following Christ means denying self, taking up the cross daily, and living in continual dependence on God's mercy and grace.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Following Christ often requires sacrifice. Discover how letting go of selfish desires and choosing obedience to God leads to spiritual growth, deeper faith, and lasting rewards.