Podcasts about Following Jesus

Inspired by a thought-provoking scene from The Chosen, this episode examines how our expectations of Jesus can sometimes become greater than our trust in Him. Discover why the question, "Who has your heart?", reveals whether you're following Christ—or simply the version of Him you've created in your own mind.

Following Jesus is not a self improvement project where spiritual fruit exists only to make our own lives easier. In “For Him. For Them.,” Part 10 of From the Vine, Pastor Josh Hersey teaches from John 15 that the work of a disciple is not to force fruit, but to abide in Jesus. When we remain connected to the Vine, His patience, love, generosity, and compassion begin to flow through us for the good of the people around us. Through the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19, we see that Jesus seeks people others overlook, calls them by name, and brings salvation into places religious people may avoid. This Christian sermon explores what it means to love people sacrificially, share your faith without having every answer, tell your testimony, identify your “plus one,” and let your light shine through practical acts of service. No one is too far gone for Jesus, and every follower of Christ has someone they can love, serve, invite, and point toward Him. Have you ever wondered what it means to abide in Christ, how to share the gospel naturally, or how to reach someone who is close to you but far from God? This message offers a biblical and practical answer. Who is your plus one, and what step can you take to help them experience the hope and love of Jesus?   New here or made a decision to follow Jesus today? We would love to connect with you. Fill out our digital connection card: https://churchontherock.net/connect-card  

God's people repeatedly sinned, repented, and promised to do better—but their resolve was never enough. In this sermon from Nehemiah 9, Pastor Josh McPherson explains how Israel's history reveals both the faithfulness of God and the inability of humanity to save itself. The answer is not to try harder, but to trust completely in Jesus Christ.Support the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources. 

Following Jesus doesn't exempt us from suffering—it transforms how we walk through it.As part of our Summer of Revelation series, “If You Can't Stand the Heat” explores Revelation 2:8–11, where Jesus encourages the persecuted church in Smyrna to remain faithful in the midst of tribulation. This message reminds us that faith isn't built on comfort or cultural acceptance but on the unshakable authority of Christ. When we keep our eyes on the King instead of our circumstances, even the fires of suffering become places where God refines our faith and reveals His presence.Scripture: Revelation 2:8–11Speaker: Pastor Kyle HornerDid you make a decision to follow Christ today? We'd love to support you—email us at info@theconnectchurch.com.Learn more about The Connect Church and stay connected: https://linktr.ee/theconnectchurch

Following Jesus is about learning to live differently every day. In Ephesians 4, we're challenged to pursue spiritual maturity so that we can reflect Christ in the way we treat others. God isn't just changing what we do; He's transforming who we are from the inside out. Join us as we discover what it looks like to walk worthy of the calling God has placed on our lives. STAY CONNECTEDWebsite: www.oasisphx.comFacebook: Oasis Community ChurchInstagram: @oasisphx

If you think that God doesn't have a sense of humor, then you've got Him all wrong! In this message, Jason Choi shares his personal faith journey from atheism to Christianity and the humorous ways that God met him and connected with him.

What tables would Jesus turn over in your life? In this powerful Bible message, we explore Jesus' first public words: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 4:17). Through the lives of David, Samson, Saul, and Billy Graham, this sermon reveals how small compromises can grow into spiritual blindness—and how genuine repentance restores our walk with God. Discover why Jesus cleansed the temple in Matthew 21:12-14, what it means to become a fully devoted follower of Christ, and why repentance is not condemnation but an invitation to freedom and renewed purpose. Bible passages featured: Matthew 4:17-22 Matthew 21:12-14 Psalm 51 Acts 13:22 2 Samuel 11-12 Judges 13-16 Revelation 3:15-19 2 Chronicles 7:14 Key Topics: Repentance and spiritual renewal Hidden sin and compromise Following Jesus wholeheartedly The life of King David Samson and spiritual compromise Saul's partial obedience Cleansing the temple Biblical discipleship Christian living Faith, holiness, and restoration

Inland Empire Church of Christ

In Episode 194, we explore John 7:32-36 and Jesus' mysterious statement that confuses the Pharisees completely. The Pharisees and leading priests are trying to arrest Jesus because they're threatened by Him and want to silence His message. So Jesus says something that baffles them: "I will be with you only a little longer. Then I will return to the one who sent me. You will search for me but not find me. And you cannot go where I am going." The Pharisees are completely confused. "Where is he planning to go?" they ask. "Is he thinking of leaving the country and going to the Jews in other lands? Maybe he will even teach the Greeks!" They're trying to solve the riddle logically, searching for a geographic answer. But they're missing the point entirely. Through guided meditation, discover what Jesus is actually saying. He's not talking about geography—He's talking about His ascension. He's saying: I'm going back to My Father. You cannot follow Me there because you don't know the Father. You don't believe in Me. You're trying to arrest Me, but you cannot stop what is coming. But there's something even deeper here that applies to all of us. Jesus is saying: "You will search for me but not find me." There will be a time when Jesus is no longer physically present. There will be a time when His followers have to follow Him by faith, not by sight. The disciples will experience this after the resurrection. Jesus will ascend to heaven. He will be gone physically. And yet He will be more present than ever—through His Spirit, through His Word, through His church. This episode explores what this means for your life: You cannot follow Jesus if you need to see Him. You cannot follow Jesus if you need to understand where He's going. Faith means trusting Him even when the destination is unclear. Faith means following Him into mystery. The Pharisees wanted certainty. They wanted to know exactly where Jesus was going so they could stop Him. But Jesus doesn't offer certainty—He offers Himself. He offers a relationship. He offers trust. Learn why Jesus speaks in riddles: He's inviting us into deeper trust, calling us to seek Him rather than answers, challenging us to follow a Person rather than a plan. Discover practical steps for identifying where Jesus is leading you into mystery and finding the courage to follow without needing to see the whole path. Find the freedom that comes from trusting Jesus more than you trust your own understanding, and experience how seeking Jesus Himself becomes more important than seeking answers or certainty.

Learn more about Brave Church at https://brave.churchPRAYER: https://brave.churchcenter.com/peopleGIVING: https://brave.church/give​​DECIDE TO FOLLOW JESUS?: https://brave.church/followjesus​​Follow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bravechurch/​​

Spring Lake Church – Bellevue CampusSermon: Following Jesus in the Age of AITeacher: Bill Van KirkPassages: Romans 12:1-2In “Following Jesus in the Age of AI,” we explore Romans 12:1–2 and what it means to remain faithful to Christ in a rapidly changing technological world. This message challenges us to surrender every part of our lives to Jesus, resist the influences that shape us away from Him, and renew our minds to discern God's will. As AI continues to transform our culture, we are reminded that our ultimate allegiance belongs to Christ.springlakechurch.org | springlakechurch.org/give | springlakechurch.org/prayer

This Sunday, we return to our sermon series, Following Jesus in Real Life: Lessons From Corinth, as Pastor Kee brings a message from 1 Corinthians 6:12–20 titled “One Flesh.”In this passage, Paul speaks directly to the relationship between our bodies, our desires, and our identity in Christ. Join us as we consider what it means to belong wholly to Jesus and how the gospel shapes even the most personal areas of our lives.Worship with us Sundays at 10:00 AM.

Following Jesus isn't about avoiding hardship; it's about remaining faithful through it. Acts 14:21–28 reminds us to resist spiritual drift, trust God in difficult seasons, and build our lives on the eternal work of His Church. We hope you were blessed by this message! Visit our website for more information about Grove City Vineyard.

Following Jesus often begins with trusting Him beyond what makes sense. Pastor Ben Palka walks through Luke 5:1–11, showing how Jesus calls ordinary fishermen into an extraordinary purpose through His power and presence. As Peter recognizes both Christ's holiness and his own unworthiness, he discovers the grace of being called rather than condemned. We are reminded that Jesus still invites imperfect people to leave everything behind and follow Him.

Date: 7/19/26 Series: Kingdom On the Move Passage: Luke 16:1-13 Speaker: Rev. Cole Lescher

Following Jesus – Jesus Calls Us to Follow Him Without Reservations MESSAGE SUMMARY: From the Gospel of Luke (9:51-60): Following Jesus Jesus asks us to follow Him, but it's not like He is physically here on earth with us to show us the way. We must discern His intended way for us by listening to His voice and reading His Word and by aligning ourselves with the Holy Spirit who is leading us. Part of what Jesus is teaching us in Luke 9:51-60 is to stop making excuses and reasons for not following Him. Jesus calls us to follow Him now and without reservations. Christians are not just believers in Jesus; Christians are followers of Jesus. In Matthew 10:37-39, Jesus significantly refines the context and implications of His call to us as His followers: “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.". Our calls from Jesus to follow Him may, often, be moment by moment. As Jesus said to the First Century Christians: follow me today! Is Jesus the Lord, or is Jesus your Lord? You must consciously make the decision to follow Jesus because He will call you. Jesus said: “Follow me.”. Who and what are you following?   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM FORGIVEN. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Luke 9:51-60; Matthew 10:34-42; Psalms 4:1-8. SCRIPTURE REFERENCE SEARCH: www.AWFTL.org/bible-search/ A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Jesus Followers Have Much for which to Thank God - His Grace for Our Salvation and Our Freedom to Serve Him”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Uflourish welcomes First Baptist Sulphur Springs, who have come in numbers on their annual summer mission trip from Texas up to the Milwaukee area in order to bless and support the ministries of Uflourish and several other churches in the area. Their pastor, Dr. Jeff Gravens, joins us in our Following Jesus series by diving into the portion of Luke 9 where Jesus calls his disciples to pick up their cross daily in order to follow him. In this daily surrender - a daily death to ourselves and the empty promises of the world - we find a lasting hope and purpose in our passionate pursuit of Jesus.

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.

TAKING GROUND: Opposition In The Spirit Steve Parrish ‭‭‭‭‭Ephesians 6:10–12 (ESV) Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle (intense struggle) against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.Following Jesus is a Journey, leading you to Taking Ground, one step at a time in your DiscipleshipRelationshipsFamilyMinistryCareerCommunityTalents/GiftingsFinancesThere is a spiritual realmGod is Spirit - God created the spiritual realmThere is the Holy SpiritThere is the reality of angelsThere is the reality of fallen angels - Satan/SatanaThere is the reality of demons (likely not angels)There is the reality of false godsOPPOSITION IN THE SPIRIT: The Holy SpiritJohn 1:43 (ESV) The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.”Galatians 5:25 (ESV) If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.Acts 16:6–10 (ESV) And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them. So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.Misalignment with the Holy Spirit brings brings contentionActs 7:51 (ESV) “You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you.Ephesians 4:30 (ESV) And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.OPPOSITION IN THE SPIRIT: Surrendered TerritoryEphesians 4:27 (NIV) and do not give the devil a foothold.This can happen Personal, Family, RegionUnforgivenessHidden/Addictive SinGeneration SinOccultic PracticeThis establishes a rightful ground to be used for opposition in your life.Daniel 10:13 (ESV) The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days, but Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I was left there with the kings of Persia,While slavery was a horrific sin of American in it's early years, the sin of Abortion is far worse.Old Testament, Children were murderedMolech - children passed through the fireBaal - sacrifices Why? Favor, protection, blessing, prosperity and agricultural success. Fertility of land and livestock. Protection from enemies and disasters. Divine favor and acceptance.Mark 5:7–10 (ESV) And crying out with a loud voice, he said, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me.” For he was saying to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” And Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “My name is Legion, for we are many.” And he begged him earnestly not to send them out of the country.OPPOSITION IN THE SPIRIT: DeceptionRevelation 12:9 (ESV) And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.Ephesians 2:1–2 (ESV) And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—Saul/PaulJohn 16:2 (ESV) They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God.Acts 7:59–8:1 (ESV) And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep. And Saul approved of his execution. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles.Acts 8:3 (ESV) But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison.Acts 9:1–6 (ESV) But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.”Believing things that are not true is a spiritual issueThere are great limiters for believers - Revelation is neededOPPOSITION IN THE SPIRIT: Satan/SatanaGenesis 3:14–15 (ESV) The LORD God said to the serpent, “Because you have done this, cursed are you above all livestock and above all beasts of the field; on your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life. I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.”He Opposed Jesus: Luke 4:13 (ESV) And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time.2 Corinthians 2:11 (ESV) so that we would not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs.1 Peter 5:8–9 (ESV) Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.James 4:7–8 (ESV) Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.John 8:44 (ESV) You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.1 Thessalonians 2:18 (ESV) because we wanted to come to you—I, Paul, again and again—but Satan hindered us.OPPOSITION IN THE SPIRIT: Things Bound In The Spiritual RealmMatthew 17:19–21 (KJV 1900) Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.OPPOSITION IN THE SPIRIT: Occultic PracticeNumbers 22:15–17 (ESV) Once again Balak sent princes, more in number and more honorable than these. And they came to Balaam and said to him, “Thus says Balak the son of Zippor: ‘Let nothing hinder you from coming to me, for I will surely do you great honor, and whatever you say to me I will do. Come, curse this people for me.' ” “That cant touch me…”. It can, but you can discern and oppose it.

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.

Following Jesus is more than a one-time decision. It's a daily walk

Just a couple hundred meters from our church office, a missile struck an apartment building.It happened around 7:00 in the morning. Thankfully, I was still at home drinking my coffee when I heard the explosion. A few hours later, as I drove to church, I was met with a large traffic jam because the missile had hit the very road I travel every day.When I arrived at the office, I walked down the street toward the scene. I could see the top of the apartment building where the missile had struck. Three people had been killed.The top of the building that was hitLiving in Ukraine, these things affect us.We've now lived through more than four years of war. Missile strikes, drones, air raid sirens, and destruction have become part of everyday life. As I reflected on that morning, one thought kept weighing on my mind: the danger of a hardened heart.The Danger of a Hardened HeartOne of the effects of living in a war-torn country is that prolonged exposure to war, death, pain, and violence slowly hardens the heart. I've experienced this myself. The reality is that you cannot live through years of destruction and become emotionally overwhelmed every time another missile strikes. We develop ways to cope. But as Christians, we must be careful that those coping mechanisms do not become callousness. That's exactly what the enemy wants.The same thing happens spiritually. When sin surrounds us every day, we gradually become accustomed to it. What once grieved us no longer does. Suffering can have the same effect.I still remember the first morning of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. The explosions. The fear. The uncertainty. But then came the second day, the third day, the first month—and eventually the years. The temptation is to become numb. In fact, after this most recent missile strike, I found myself almost more frustrated by the traffic jam than by the explosion itself. I'm not saying that's a good thing. I'm saying that's the temptation.So how do we guard our hearts?Jesus Didn't Shy Away from Pain and SorrowThe answer begins by looking at Jesus. Isaiah describes the coming Messiah this way:He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. - Isaiah 53:3One of the great encouragements of the gospel is that Jesus never kept His distance from a broken world. He didn't avoid suffering. He walked straight into it. When we look at a world filled with war, sickness, injustice, and death, we realize we cannot fix it all. But Jesus entered into humanity's suffering and understands it better than anyone.Jesus Never Dismissed the Pain of OthersOne of the clearest examples is found in John 11. When Jesus came to the tomb of Lazarus, He found Mary, Martha, and the others weeping.When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. - John 11:33Jesus knew He was about to raise Lazarus from the dead. Yet He didn't rush past their sorrow. He entered into it. He never dismissed their grief simply because He knew how the story would end.Jesus Had Deep Compassion for PeopleThroughout the Gospels, compassion is one of the defining marks of Jesus' ministry. He never treated people's pain as an interruption or inconvenience. He entered into their sorrow and walked alongside them. That's a great comfort for every believer. Whatever grief we carry, Jesus understands. He has experienced suffering Himself, and our Savior is never distant from the pain of His people.Jesus Was Indignant at InjusticeJesus' response to suffering was not only compassion. When a man with leprosy came begging to be healed, Mark writes:Jesus was indignant. He reached out his hand and touched the man... - Mark 1:41Jesus was angered by the effects of sin and the suffering it had brought into the world.bLiving through this war, I've felt that myself. Watching innocent Ukrainians suffer naturally stirs anger toward the evil that caused it. There is a place for righteous indignation—but we must be careful what we do with it.Jesus Did Not Stay Dwelling in GriefOne of the things I love about the Gospels is that Jesus never remained in sorrow. He entered fully into the suffering of others, yet He didn't allow Himself to marinate in grief. Again and again, we see Him entrusting Himself to His Father. Jesus understood that grief had its proper place, but it was never meant to become His dwelling place. That's an example we desperately need to follow.Jesus Made Time to Be with the FatherThroughout the Gospels we repeatedly find Jesus withdrawing to lonely places to pray. Again and again, He stepped away from the crowds to spend time with His Father.When we live in the middle of continual trauma, we need those same rhythms.Personally, I've found the book of Psalms to be one of the greatest helps. More than any trauma manual, the Psalms give voice to our grief while continually directing our hearts back to God.Jesus Carried Joy in the Midst of SufferingJesus was a man of sorrows, but He was also a man of joy. On the night before the cross, He prayed:I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them. - John 17:13Think about that. Jesus spoke of joy as He walked toward the cross. That is one of the beautiful tensions of the Christian life. We experience grief, pain, and loss, yet at the same time we possess a joy that suffering cannot take away because it is rooted in Christ.Following Jesus in a World of SufferingOne of the unique realities of ministry in Ukraine is that suffering can produce two very different responses. God often uses pain to soften hearts and draw people to Himself. But prolonged suffering can also harden hearts.As followers of Christ, our calling is not to offer shallow answers. It is to follow the example of Jesus—to enter into the pain of others with compassion, to grieve over injustice, to remain close to the Father, and to hold fast to the joy that only He can give.May God guard our hearts from becoming hardened. And may He help us reflect the heart of Christ in a world that desperately needs the hope of the gospel.

What does it look like to follow Jesus in the everyday tension of motherhood, marriage, leadership, and personal healing? In episode four of our Summer Recap Series, Shelley Giglio is joined by author, Bible teacher, and podcaster Jackie Hill Perry for a raw and wisdom filled conversation about humility, trust, and the hidden work of sanctification. Jackie shares candidly about parenting four children while staying rooted in her calling, building a marriage grounded in friendship with her husband Preston, and learning to trust God in places of deep personal hurt and uncertainty. Together, they unpack what it means to live as disciples who choose obedience over ego, faith over fear, and gratitude over envy. This episode will encourage you to see God differently in your suffering, to embrace the narrow road of discipleship, and to trust that He is faithful in every step of your story. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we are reviving our series where we take your tough questions. We are starting with Israel and all the questions surrounding the modern Jewish people. Welcome to the 167!

For the teaching this summer, pastor Mitch will be walking us through some thoughts on the gospel, marriage, and family on Wednesday nights. This will apply to all of our home lives. The premise of the series is this: Many people look to the scriptures to provide some sort of key to unlocking an ideal home life. The truth is as we explore the home life in the scriptures we find something better than a magic formula, we find a person - Jesus. Singleness, marriage, kids, and family are all about Jesus and thus they're all opportunities to follow Jesus even in the homes we wake up in each morning. We hope these teachings will be helpful.

There’s a good chance you’ve seen a two-man saw. With handles on both sides, it’s an excellent example of teamwork. One man pushes, the other man pulls – and then vice versa. Some of those saws were 12 feet long. The Christian life has many examples of teamwork, and today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us focus on discipleship. It addresses the push n’ pull of daily life as a believer – where a new believer and a veteran believer each have something to offer the other. Join Greg Laurie for the Annual Jesus Revolution Baptism at Pirate's Cove on July 18. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s a good chance you’ve seen a two-man saw. With handles on both sides, it’s an excellent example of teamwork. One man pushes, the other man pulls – and then vice versa. Some of those saws were 12 feet long. The Christian life has many examples of teamwork, and today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie helps us focus on discipleship. It addresses the push n’ pull of daily life as a believer – where a new believer and a veteran believer each have something to offer the other. Join Greg Laurie for the Annual Jesus Revolution Baptism at Pirate's Cove on July 18. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Looking good isn't a sin—but when does self-improvement become self-worship? In this episode, we wrestle with one of the most relevant questions Christians face today: from BBLs and Botox to braces, veneers, and hair transplants, where should followers of Jesus draw the line? Join us as we explore what Scripture says about our bodies, our motives, and whether we're pursuing God's glory or the world's approval.John 7:241 Samuel 16:7Esther 2:7Genesis 29:17 Genesis 39:6 1 Samuel 9:2 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 1 Kings 6–7 2 Chronicles 3–4 1 Corinthians 10:23–24 1 Corinthians 10:31 1 Corinthians 8:9  1 Peter 3:3–4 Proverbs 31:30 Philippians 2:3–4 Galatians 1:10

When was the last time you were the “newbie” on the job . . . the new guy or gal just hired? If you were fortunate, you had someone come alongside you to show you the ropes. Because if you don’t know anything, it’s hard to do anything. Well today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how we tutor new believers through a process called “discipleship.” It’s a process of spiritual duplication where older believers give the younger an example to follow, a paradigm for success. Join Greg Laurie for the Annual Jesus Revolution Baptism at Pirate's Cove on July 18. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You can be walking with God and still walk through painful places. Following Jesus does not mean we avoid hurt, opposition, or discomfort. But it does mean we are never without His presence.    In this REVING the Word workout, Alisa Keeton explores Luke 10:17-20 and the authority Jesus gives His followers. When the 72 disciples returned amazed by what God had done through them, Jesus reminded them that their greatest victory was not what they accomplished, but that their names were written in heaven.   Followers of Jesus will experience hurt. We will face resistance and walk through hard things. But when you are anchored in Jesus, "you won't be wrong." Press play, move your body, open your heart, and let His Word move in you.   Anchor Scriptures Luke 10:17–20 Luke 9 Luke 12:32 Hebrews 11:1 Psalm 139   New to REVING the Word? Your body was created to carry the presence and purpose of God. In REVING the Word episodes, we don't just listen to Scripture; we practice it. We let God's truth move from our ears into our hearts and through our bodies.   Move however you want. Walk. Lift. Stretch. Dance. There is no "right" way. As you move your body, remember: you were made for more than sitting on the sidelines. You were created to walk in the authority Jesus gives you.   

When was the last time you were the “newbie” on the job . . . the new guy or gal just hired? If you were fortunate, you had someone come alongside you to show you the ropes. Because if you don’t know anything, it’s hard to do anything. Well today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie points out how we tutor new believers through a process called “discipleship.” It’s a process of spiritual duplication where older believers give the younger an example to follow, a paradigm for success. Join Greg Laurie for the Annual Jesus Revolution Baptism at Pirate's Cove on July 18. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If we want to prioritize our faith, we need to stop living for our own comfort. Following Jesus requires us to make fundamental changes in our priorities. In this message, Pastor Lutzer discusses rearranging our schedules, breaking worldly habits, and surrendering to God. If we really love Jesus, what difference does it make? 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/

Pastor Josh McPherson teaches from Nehemiah 8 about the power of God's Word to awaken individuals, reform cultures, and shape nations. When people forget God, they lose the story they are living in and become vulnerable to destructive lies. But when Scripture is publicly proclaimed, clearly explained, and faithfully obeyed, it produces conviction, worship, gratitude, reformation, and the joy of the Lord.Support the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources. 

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 ★

Many people live their lives fearful or worried that God will drop them – either by accident or because He's found something "better." But the truth is you are God's special possession and you are completely secure in His hands! In this week's message, Maria Pedone shares her experience learning this lesson and discovering that God will never drop her!

So many Christians wrestle with exhaustion, anxiety, and burnout all because they are striving for God's approval rather than striding with God as His loved child. In this message, Renna Nightingale helps us learn the difference between striving and striding and shares how we can walk with God from a place of being fully loved.

In this sermon, Jordan Funderburk walks the congregation through the second half of Paul's third missionary journey in Acts 19-21, using Paul's experiences as a lens to answer one central question: what is the cost of following Jesus? Jordan opens with a relatable illustration — weighing the cost of a car repair or a vacation — before anchoring the big idea in Luke 14:27, where Jesus himself says that whoever does not carry his own cross cannot be his disciple. Following Jesus, Jordan makes clear, is the biggest decision a person will ever make, and it is never without a price. As Paul moves through Ephesus, Troas, and toward Jerusalem, Jordan draws out several specific costs that surface along the way. The riot stirred up by Demetrius and the silversmiths in Ephesus illustrates that radical change often provokes radical opposition, and that following Jesus may cost you your popularity, your finances, and even your health. The all-night gathering in Troas — where a young man named Eutychus falls from a window and is raised back to life — highlights the cost of time and convenience. And Paul's tearful farewell to the Ephesian elders, paired with his unwavering resolve to press on to Jerusalem despite certain danger, shows what it looks like to obey God despite unknown outcomes. Jordan closes by pressing the congregation with a challenge rooted in Luke 14:33, where Jesus says that anyone who does not renounce all that he has cannot be his disciple. Drawing on the image of Jesus as both Savior and Lord — two sides of the same coin — Jordan reminds the church that we cannot accept one side while rejecting the other. Quoting John MacArthur, he leaves the congregation with this: it costs nothing to become a Christian, but it costs everything to live fully as one. The good news, however, is that as Luke 18:29-30 promises, whatever is surrendered for the sake of the kingdom will be repaid many times over, both in this life and in the life to come.

Pastor Greg Laurie discusses the vital relationship between new and seasoned Christians in the discipleship process. He highlights how new believers need acceptance, assurance, protection, and fellowship while also revitalising the lives of older believers. Ultimately, he emphasises the Great Commission, reminding us that we are all called to make disciples with the power of God empowering us to do so.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the first week of our new series, “Unfiltered,” Pastor Jeff Maness teaches on the Matthew 5:48 command to be “perfect” through the lens of grace. Jesus came to fulfill the law, something it couldn't do on its own. His grace empowers us to live godly lives, and as we grow in likeness to Christ, we are promised that He will continue the good work He began in us until it is finished on the day Jesus returns. Click here for message notes.Click here for discussion questions for this episode.Find us on:YouTube: YouTube.com/TheHarborInstagram: Instagram.com/TheHarbor_lifeFacebook: Facebook.com/TheHarbordotlifeWebsite: https://www.TheHarbor.lifeWatch/listen on The Harbor AppNew episode every week!

When the Samaritan woman encountered Jesus, everything changed.She didn't become a Bible scholar overnight. She didn't suddenly have all the answers. She simply left her water jar behind, ran into town, and invited others to meet the One who had changed her life.In this message from The Invitation series, John Gunter explores one of Scripture's greatest examples of personal evangelism. Through the story of the Samaritan woman, we're reminded that God often chooses the people we least expect to accomplish His greatest work.Sharing our faith isn't about having a perfect past or perfect knowledge. It's about introducing people to the perfect Savior.Key Themes: God uses imperfect people.  Your testimony matters.  Don't let your past silence your witness.  Jesus calls us to invite, not convince.  The harvest is ready today. Key Scriptures: John 4:27-42  Mark 5:18-20 Eagle Community Church of Christ Mont Belvieu, TexasLoving God. Loving People. Following Jesus.

In this message, Philip Daigle reminds us that God is always at work, even in seasons when His presence feels hidden. Through Scripture and personal application, Pastor Philip encourages believers to trust God's character over their circumstances, recognizing that faith is often built in the waiting. Rather than allowing disappointment or uncertainty to define us, we're invited to remain steadfast, knowing that God is faithful to complete what He has started. Pastor Philip challenges listeners to move beyond comfortable Christianity and embrace a life of wholehearted surrender. Following Jesus isn't just about believing the right things—it's about trusting Him enough to obey, even when the outcome isn't clear. As we release control and place our confidence in God, He begins to shape our character, deepen our faith, and use our lives for His purposes. Ultimately, this message is a call to live with confidence in God's promises rather than our own understanding. No matter what season you're facing, God is present, He's working, and He's inviting you to trust Him more deeply. When we choose faith over fear and surrender over self-reliance, we discover the peace, purpose, and hope that are found only in Him.

Learn more about Brave Church at https://brave.churchPRAYER: https://brave.churchcenter.com/peopleGIVING: https://brave.church/give​​DECIDE TO FOLLOW JESUS?: https://brave.church/followjesus​​Follow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bravechurch/​​

This Sunday, we launched our new series, SHEMA, by exploring one of the most important prayers in all of Scripture. Throughout the message, we saw that this has always been God's desire for His people. Jesus Himself identified the Shema as the greatest commandment, reminding us that loving God is more than a feeling or belief—it is demonstrated by the way we live. Following Jesus is neither empty religious rule-keeping nor a relationship with no expectations. True devotion is a relationship with Christ that is expressed through obedience to His way.

Pastor Greg Laurie emphasises the importance of commitment to Christ and consistent spiritual growth. He highlights the need for older believers to guide new believers through the discipleship process, ensuring they find acceptance, assurance, protection, and fellowship in their faith journey.Support the show: https://harvest.org/resources/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Summer is the season of light. The sun rises early, stretches across long golden afternoons, and lingers well into the evening. On clear nights, bright stars fill the sky long after the sun has set. There is something in us that is naturally drawn to all of that light, and this episode invites us to let it point us somewhere deeper — to the One who declared Himself the light of the world and promised that those who follow Him will never walk in darkness. The darkness in this world is real and can feel overwhelming. Bad news arrives daily, personal struggles accumulate, and it can begin to seem like darkness is gaining the upper hand. But Jesus' words in John 8:12 reframe everything. Just as lighting a single candle in a dark room demonstrates that light always dispels darkness physically, Jesus makes clear that His light dispels darkness spiritually — in any situation, no matter how challenging. Summer gives us a beautiful, unhurried invitation to meditate on that truth. A sunrise can become a prayer of gratitude. A golden afternoon can become a reminder of grace that covers everything. A clear starlit night can produce the kind of awe that only comes from contemplating a vast and powerful God. Let the light of this season renew your perspective and remind you that the God who created physical light is the same God who offers spiritual light to your soul — and His light always wins. Today's Bible Verse "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'"— John 8:12, NIV Ponder Today Light always wins when it arrives. No matter how dark a room, a single candle changes everything. Jesus' light operates the same way spiritually — it is stronger than any darkness you are facing, no matter how overwhelming that darkness feels. Following Jesus means you are never without light on the path ahead. His presence illuminates the way forward, guides you toward God's best, and offers the encouragement that a hopeful future is planned for those who walk with Him. Summer's light is a daily invitation to reflect on God's hope. A sunrise, a golden afternoon, a starlit sky — each one is an opportunity to turn your heart toward the God who created light and who offers that same light to your soul. When discouragement comes, let physical light point you back to spiritual truth. Whenever the darkness of this world presses in, step outside, look up, and let what you see remind you of what is true: God's light is stronger, His hope is greater, and His promises do not fail. A Prayer for You Today Dear Jesus, thank You for the wonderful light You have placed in the world around me. The sunlight of summer days and the stars that shine on clear nights remind me of Your goodness and power. You say that You are the light of the world and that those who follow You will not walk in darkness. Please help me remember that promise whenever I get discouraged about the darkness in this fallen world. Remind me to look beyond my dark circumstances to the light of hope You are always shining. Let the light of summer remind me again and again that Your light is stronger than any darkness. Fill my life with the peace and confidence that come from walking in Your light each day. Thank You. Amen. Don't Miss an Episode If today's prayer helped you see summer's light with fresh and hopeful eyes, we'd love to stay connected. Subscribe to the LifeAudio newsletter at LifeAudio.com for daily prayers, devotionals, and more content to keep your heart anchored in the light of Christ every day. If you like this podcast, be sure to check out our sister podcast, Your Nightly Prayer - an evening Christian prayer podcast to help you end your day in conversation with God. https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.