Podcasts about gentiles

Read OnlineIn those days when there again was a great crowd without anything to eat, Jesus summoned the disciples and said, “My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat. If I send them away hungry to their homes, they will collapse on the way, and some of them have come a great distance.” Mark 8:1–3Early in Jesus' public ministry, He made a brief trip across the Sea of Galilee to the territory of the Gerasenes—a largely Gentile and pagan town on the outskirts of the Decapolis. This journey was significant, as it demonstrated Jesus' intention to extend His mission beyond the boundaries of Jewish territory, foreshadowing the universal scope of salvation that would later be fully realized through the Church's apostolic mission.When Jesus arrived on shore in the territory of the Gerasenes, He freed a man possessed by “Legion,” meaning many demons, and sent the demons into a herd of two thousand swine, who drowned themselves in the sea. Although this was the only recorded act Jesus performed during that initial visit, it caused quite a commotion. When the swineherds saw this, they ran and reported the incident to the nearby town, and people came to see it for themselves. Stunned by what had happened, they asked Jesus to leave, and He did. However, “the man went off and began to proclaim in the Decapolis what Jesus had done for him; and all were amazed” (Mark 5:20).That brief trip into the Gentile and pagan territory of the Decapolis planted a seed. The loss of two thousand swine undoubtedly affected the people, but it also planted the seed more deeply. Which was more important: one man possessed by a legion of demons or two thousand swine? Jesus' actions reveal the answer. As word spread of His miraculous deliverance and authority over demons, many Gentiles became curious.That brief miracle set the stage for today's Gospel when Jesus returned to the Decapolis to nurture the seed He had planted. Upon His return, He cured a deaf and mute man, symbolizing the importance of hearing and proclaiming the Gospel. Afterwards, Jesus drew a great crowd, who remained with Him for three days despite having no food.After three days, Jesus revealed His compassionate heart to the Twelve: “My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat.” Jesus then tested the Twelve, observing, “If I send them away hungry to their homes, they will collapse on the way, and some of them have come a great distance.” This situation should have been familiar to the Twelve. Earlier in His ministry, while in Jewish territory, Jesus had fed five thousand men with only five loaves and two fish. But now they were in Gentile territory, and instead of understanding that Jesus' same providence extended to these pagans, the disciples said to Him, “Where can anyone get enough bread to satisfy them here in this deserted place?” Once again, Jesus performed a miracle and fed four thousand.Reflect today on the universality of Jesus' mission. His compassionate care transcended cultural and religious boundaries, offering physical and spiritual nourishment to all who sought Him. Jesus' same mission continues today through us, the members of His Body, the Church. We must never become self-enclosed in our own communities of faith and family. Instead, we are called to go out into the world, to the “pagan” regions where people hunger for God's Word. Sometimes our mission is to plant a seed; at other times, it is to nurture the seed by helping it grow through the grace of God, so that everyone may come to know and love Him. Ultimately, the feeding of the five thousand Jews and four thousand Gentiles points to the universal call for all to share in the Eucharistic banquet. Learn the lesson Jesus taught the Twelve, and imitate our Lord's merciful heart, filled with compassion for those who need Him the most. My generous Lord, You desire all people to come to know You and to be saved. Free me from any hesitancy or fear in sharing Your saving Truth with those who need it most. Grant me the wisdom to discern when to plant the seed, when to nurture it, and when to harvest. Use me as Your instrument to draw others into the fullness of life, where they may share in Your Eucharistic banquet of grace. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: New Skete: multiplication of loaves & fishes by Jim Forest, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

In the chapters ahead of us we'll see Phillip, one of the twelve apostles, getting directions from God to go evangelize an Ethiopian eunuch, and after baptizing the new convert, Philip disappears from the site and reappears in another city. We'll also see the young Jewish leader named Saul has his heart set on persecuting all those who belong to the Way of Jesus, but the Lord interrupts him and creates drastic change in his heart and life. Peter receives a vision from the Lord, communicating to him that the Way of Jesus is not reserved only for Israelites, but is open to Gentiles as well. We pick up where we left off: the conclusion of the stoning of Stephen.Acts 8 – 1:10 . Acts 9 – 6:55 . Acts 10 – 14:23 . Acts 11 – 22:06 . Proverbs 11 – 26:49 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Romans 10:18-21 — How could it be that the foolish and ignorant Gentiles would predominately receive the gospel, whereas God's chosen people, the Jews, would predominately reject the gospel? Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones has been tracing the apostle Paul's argument through Romans, seeking to answer this query following the inspired text of Scripture itself. In this sermon on Romans 10:18–21 titled “Learning the Lessons,” he transitions from exposition to application of the many exegetical principles he has established in earlier messages. Dr. Lloyd-Jones notes the important role in the personal application of Scripture, which many of the Jews in Paul's day missed. Furthermore, he traces the history of the church as illustrative of “dead orthodoxy” that abandons the Lord Jesus Christ and persecutes His church. The answer to such alarming tendency of so-called “Christians” persecuting the church is a posture of self-examination and returning to the ultimate authority – the word of God. Dr. Lloyd-Jones asks the church to remain open to the scrutiny of Scripture, remaining humble before it and others, while rightly handling the whole of the Bible. Listen to this vital message from Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones as he cautions the church to take serious the tragedy of the Jews, not merely as a historical interest, but more importantly as a means of God's grace in the life of His people. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111

In this Jewish Inspiration Podcast episode (Day 126), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the Gate of Truth (Sha'ar HaEmes) from Orchos Tzaddikim, stressing that truth is the core of God, the soul, and Jewish destiny in exile. Key teachings:Prolonged exile due to sins — Current long exile stems from Jewish sins; we must separate from worldly vanities and cling to Hashem's seal—truth.Sanctify through truth — Abstain even from permissible things to avoid any trace of falsehood (97% truth = 100% false); never lie or mislead Jew or Gentile in any matter.Exile for converts — Hashem scattered Jews among nations to add gerim (converts); honest dealings inspire non-Jews to join (Midrash: “I will sow her for Myself in the land” = exile brings converts).Return stolen items — Stories of Rabbi Shimon ben Shetach returning a precious stone in a donkey purchase, and sages returning money found in wheat—Gentiles proclaimed “Blessed is the God of the Jews.” Sanctification of God's Name through honesty.Reward of truth — Truth sprouts from earth; righteousness looks down from heaven (Psalms 85:12). Truthful living glorifies Hashem and draws divine favor.Wicked rewarded in this world — Hashem pays wicked for minor merits now to destroy them eternally (Deuteronomy); better for righteous to suffer briefly here and receive eternal reward in Olam Haba.Practical application — Cling to truth in all dealings; exile teaches separation from falsehood and reliance on Hashem alone.The rabbi reflects on modern parallels (antisemitism, unity in crises like Nachshon Waxman) and urges living truthfully to hasten redemption—Moshiach comes when truth prevails. Ends previewing next trait: flattery (chanufa)._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 1, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 15, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Truth, #Emes, #Exile, #Converts, #KiddushHashem ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Jewish Inspiration Podcast episode (Day 126), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the Gate of Truth (Sha'ar HaEmes) from Orchos Tzaddikim, stressing that truth is the core of God, the soul, and Jewish destiny in exile. Key teachings:Prolonged exile due to sins — Current long exile stems from Jewish sins; we must separate from worldly vanities and cling to Hashem's seal—truth.Sanctify through truth — Abstain even from permissible things to avoid any trace of falsehood (97% truth = 100% false); never lie or mislead Jew or Gentile in any matter.Exile for converts — Hashem scattered Jews among nations to add gerim (converts); honest dealings inspire non-Jews to join (Midrash: “I will sow her for Myself in the land” = exile brings converts).Return stolen items — Stories of Rabbi Shimon ben Shetach returning a precious stone in a donkey purchase, and sages returning money found in wheat—Gentiles proclaimed “Blessed is the God of the Jews.” Sanctification of God's Name through honesty.Reward of truth — Truth sprouts from earth; righteousness looks down from heaven (Psalms 85:12). Truthful living glorifies Hashem and draws divine favor.Wicked rewarded in this world — Hashem pays wicked for minor merits now to destroy them eternally (Deuteronomy); better for righteous to suffer briefly here and receive eternal reward in Olam Haba.Practical application — Cling to truth in all dealings; exile teaches separation from falsehood and reliance on Hashem alone.The rabbi reflects on modern parallels (antisemitism, unity in crises like Nachshon Waxman) and urges living truthfully to hasten redemption—Moshiach comes when truth prevails. Ends previewing next trait: flattery (chanufa)._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 1, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 15, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Truth, #Emes, #Exile, #Converts, #KiddushHashem ★ Support this podcast ★

Read OnlineJesus left the district of Tyre and went by way of Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, into the district of the Decapolis. And people brought to him a deaf man who had a speech impediment and begged him to lay his hand on him. Mark 7:31–32Throughout Jesus' public ministry, His actions, while purely charitable, were often deliberate and provocative. His words and deeds testified to the true meaning of the Mosaic Law by exposing the damaging legalism of many Pharisees, whose misinterpretations deeply influenced God's Chosen People. For example, Jesus healed a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath (cf. Mark 3:1–6) and cured a man who had been lame for thirty-eight years (cf. John 5:1–18). In both cases, Jesus was accused of violating the Sabbath rest as interpreted by the Pharisaic traditions. By challenging these restrictive and erroneous interpretations, Jesus demonstrated that the Sabbath is a day for mercy, healing, and honoring God, not a burdensome observance of human traditions. Jesus boldly lived the Mosaic Law as it was intended, while challenging the erroneous practices and beliefs He encountered. Another act of deliberate and charitable provocation was Jesus' ministry among the Gentiles. At that time, observant Jews often avoided direct interactions with Gentiles, considering them ritually unclean and outside the covenant community of Israel. Yet Jesus traveled into Gentile regions such as Tyre, Sidon, and the Decapolis. In today's Gospel, Jesus traveled from Tyre to Sidon and then to the Decapolis, where He healed a deaf and mute man. Being predominantly Gentile regions, they were marked by pagan worship, Hellenistic culture, and lifestyles often incompatible with Jewish religious practices. It is likely that Jesus' companions—the Twelve—were surprised and uneasy during these visits, but that was precisely the point. Their journey to these territories was itself a lesson Jesus intended to teach. By engaging with Gentiles, Jesus revealed that God's salvation is not limited to Israel but extends to all nations, fulfilling the promise made to Abraham: “All the families of the earth will find blessing in you” (Genesis 12:3). In doing so, Jesus began preparing His disciples to shed nationalistic biases and embrace the universal scope of God's covenant of salvation.The healing of the deaf and mute man carries profound significance. First, by performing the miracle in predominantly Gentile territory, Jesus directed its meaning beyond the Jews to all peoples of every nation. The message is clear: By healing the man's deafness, Jesus teaches that all must hear the saving message of the Gospel. By healing his speech impediment, Jesus further teaches that all who hear the Gospel are called to proclaim it.Though the manner of this healing—putting “his finger into the man's ears and, spitting, touched his tongue”—is rich with symbolism, it also reveals Jesus' personal and compassionate approach. For a deaf and mute man, spoken words alone would not have conveyed what Jesus was about to do. By using touch and visible gestures, Jesus communicated with the man in a way he could understand, engaging him personally and tenderly. This reflects the boundless compassion of Jesus, Who meets each of us where we are.Reflect today on the lesson the Twelve learned as they traveled with Jesus through Gentile and pagan regions. As followers of Christ, we must learn not only from His words but also from His actions. The Creed, the Sacraments, and the moral teachings of the Church are not meant for Catholics alone but for all people. At times, sharing the Gospel might require charitable provocation within the social circles in which we live and work. We must strive to do so in ways that people can understand, setting aside artificial or inconsequential traditions that obstruct the message. True compassion leads us to every person, making us instruments of their salvation, knowing that the message we bring is for all, so that “all the families of the earth” may find blessing in God through you.My compassionate and provocative Lord, You confidently and lovingly challenged the burdensome and restrictive traditions that had overshadowed the true spirit of the Mosaic Law, pointing Your disciples—and us—to the universal scope of Your saving mission. Grant me the courage and wisdom to be an instrument of Your Gospel to everyone I meet. Help me to love them where they are, with the tenderness and compassion You show, so that they, too, may be drawn into the joy of Your eternal Kingdom. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: unknown, (Markusmaler und Gehilfe), Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Romans 10:18-21 — As it pertains to human knowledge, human understanding, or human works, the Jews of Paul's day would be in a position of entire advantage. Yet the majority of Jews, as Paul laments in Romans, did not obey the gospel. Why? Moreover, what does it mean that Paul cites Scripture against the Jews calling them “disobedient” and “gainsaying”? In this sermon on Romans 10:18–21 titled “Tragedy of the Jews,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones grounds the tragedy of the Jews in God's sovereign election and their prejudice against the Lord Jesus Christ. Salvation belongs to the Lord, as Dr. Lloyd-Jones reminds the listener. The way of salvation from old covenant to the new covenant is determined by the sovereign grace of God. The “whosoever” of salvation is tied to “whosoever” as God determines, whether that is predominantly Jews or predominantly Gentiles. But Dr. Lloyd-Jones leaves room for human responsibility as well. Many of the Jews in the first century were simply set against the gospel. Jesus experienced this in His earthly ministry with the Pharisees as did Paul in his ministry. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones tackles the topic of divine sovereignty and human responsibility and as Paul explained the tragedy of the Jews, Dr. Lloyd-Jones calls the church to self-examination and praise in the sovereign election of God. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111

Just as eyewitnesses may see any event from different perspectives and recall different details, each of the Gospel writers has a slightly different focus in the information he presents.  Matthew's record focuses on the death of Christ and spilling of blood that would fulfill the shadows and types of the Old Testament sacrifices, presenting Christ as Deliverer and Reconciler for both Jews and Gentiles.  Our only choice is to either wholly accept or wholly reject him. VF-2179 Watch, Listen and Learn 24x7 at PastorMelissaScott.com Pastor Melissa Scott teaches from Faith Center in Glendale. Call 1-800-338-3030 24x7 to leave a message for Pastor Scott. You may make reservations to attend a live service, leave a prayer request or make a commitment. Pastor Scott appreciates messages and reads them often during live broadcasts. Follow @Pastor_Scott on Twitter and visit her official Facebook page @Pastor.M.Scott. Download Pastor Scott's "Understand the Bible" app for iPhone, iPad and iPod at the Apple App Store and for Android devices in the Google Store. Pastor Scott can also be seen 24x7 on Roku and Amazon Fire on the "Understand the Bible?" channel. ©2026 Pastor Melissa Scott, Ph.D., All Rights Reserved

What if the story of Jesus was told with the precision of an engineer and the heart of a storyteller? In this episode of Seek Go Create, Tim Winders dives into the Gospel of Luke—exploring how a Gentile physician crafted a detailed, compassionate account designed to bring certainty to seekers. Discover why Luke's perspective matters, how his orderly approach connects faith to history, and what it means for anyone searching for truth. Whether you're curious about the origins of Christianity or simply love a good story, this episode will help you see the New Testament through fresh eyes."Luke traces Jesus from birth to ascension with the eyes of a historian and the heart of a storyteller." - Tim WindersAccess all show and episode resources HEREEpisode Resources & Action Steps:NT90 Hub – This is the central website for the 90-day New Testament reading plan, with downloadable, printable plans, background information, and links to all episodes and resources.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to the New Testament Reading Plan01:03 Overview of the Gospel of Luke01:31 Historical Context and Key Facts02:40 Theophilus: The Intended Audience05:58 The Three Kingdoms at a Crossroads07:50 Themes and Highlights in Luke11:34 Reading Assignment and Next Steps12:29 Setting the Scene for Luke's Gospel

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

The More and Better podcast at Faithco Church aims to provide a deeper understanding of the Sunday sermons and practical guidance for discipleship through the Word of God. The first episode delves into the book of Acts and the theology of the New Testament church, emphasizing the importance of diving deeper into the sermons. The conversation delves into the concept of religion, the practice of faith, and the challenge of discipleship. It emphasizes the importance of being a witness for Christ and the power of personal testimony. The proximity of the gospel and the need to start where you are is also highlighted.TakeawaysDiscipleship through the Word of GodUnderstanding the theology of the New Testament church Religion is about practicing faith, not legalismBeing a witness for Christ is about sharing your personal testimonyThe gospel should be shared starting from where you areChapters00:00 Introduction to More and Better Podcast10:01 Understanding the Author of Luke and Acts17:37 The Time of the Gentiles and the Church Age39:30 The Proximity of the Gospel

After Eden, the flood, Babel, Abraham, Sinai, kings, and exile… the story reaches its turning point. God didn't abandon His plan for a human family. He didn't surrender the nations to darkness. And He didn't scrap creation when rebellion kept repeating itself. Instead, He stepped in. In this episode, we trace the arc from Israel's failure to the Incarnation—why God chose to become a man, how the crucifixion blindsided the powers of darkness, and what Paul meant when he said that if the rulers of this age had understood what was happening, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. We also look at Pentecost through a different lens. Those 3,000 believers weren't just converts—they were God's first wave of reclaiming the nations. Scattered among the Gentile world, they became embedded witnesses in territory long held by other gods. The Great Commission wasn't a church program. It was a cosmic invasion. And it's still unfolding. The story isn't over—and neither is your part in it. Scriptures referenced include: Genesis 6; Deuteronomy 32:8–9; Psalm 82; Exodus 19; 1 Corinthians 2:8; Ephesians 2:7; Ephesians 3:10; Matthew 28:19–20; Acts 2. This series follows the broad theological framework popularized by Dr. Michael Heiser in What Does God Want? and Supernatural. For listeners who want to explore these themes more deeply, those books are an excellent place to start.

Read OnlineJesus went to the district of Tyre. He entered a house and wanted no one to know about it, but he could not escape notice. Soon a woman whose daughter had an unclean spirit heard about him. She came and fell at his feet. Mark 7:24–25The context of today's Gospel is significant. Jesus traveled to Tyre, in modern-day Lebanon, a Gentile city on the west coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Tyre was an ancient and prosperous city, known for its maritime trade and wealth. As a center of commerce and culture, it played a prominent role in the ancient world but was also frequently associated with idolatry and pagan practices in the Old Testament—practices that often opened the door to increased diabolical influence among its people. By entering Tyre, Jesus symbolically foreshadows the universality of His mission and His intention to invite all people into His Kingdom.Even though we are Christians and members of the Body of Christ, it is important to see ourselves in this woman. In a sense, we are all Gentiles, meaning that as long as we live in this world, we are exiles—tempted by demons and sin, yet longing for freedom and our true home in Heaven.Even though Jesus entered a house in Tyre and “wanted no one to know about it,” this desire set the stage for His encounter with this woman. It was not only a moment of grace for her but also a moment of teaching for His disciples—and for us.First, we read that even though Jesus entered the house secretly, “he could not escape notice.” While He may have gone unnoticed by many in Tyre, this woman recognized Him. She was on a mission, driven by love for her daughter. She did not seek Jesus for selfish reasons but because her heart longed for her daughter's deliverance from a demon. This reveals the universal and irresistible desire for God's mercy, present in every soul open to His grace.Additionally, when our hearts are aflame with charity for others, especially family, Jesus' divine presence will not escape our notice. Charity sharpens our spiritual sensitivity to God's grace and truth, enabling us to find Him by following the promptings of spiritual love.When the woman pleads with Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter, His response is surprising: “Let the children be fed first. For it is not right to take the food of the children and throw it to the dogs” (Mark 7:27). This was not an insult but a truthful and deliberate statement. No one—neither Gentile, Jew, nor Christian—has a right to God's power and mercy. By expressing this fact, Jesus gave the woman an opportunity to reveal two qualities that are irresistible to Him: faith and humility.Her response, “Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children's scraps” (Mark 7:28), is a beautiful declaration of both. Faith is the recognition of God's power and goodness, while humility acknowledges that we are unworthy of His mercy. Though it may seem counterintuitive, admitting our unworthiness does not distance us from God—it draws Him closer. A humble heart, devoid of a sense of entitlement, always moves God to pour out His power and grace. Because this Gentile woman manifested both, her daughter was healed. Reflect today on the profound union of faith and humility. First, ponder how deeply you believe that God is the ultimate answer to life. Do you seek Him and His will above every other desire? Secondly, as your faith is purified, examine whether you struggle with an entitlement mindset. Do you approach God with the expectation of His blessings, or do you, like the Syrophoenician woman, humbly acknowledge your unworthiness while trusting fully in His mercy? Pray her beautiful prayer today, and trust that our Lord will irresistibly pour forth His grace upon you.My merciful Lord, with the Syrophoenician woman, I profess my faith in You. Help me to believe that You alone are the answer to every need in my life and in the lives of those I love. With that faith, I also profess my unworthiness. Yet if it be Your will, dear Lord, pour Your grace into my heart and into the hearts of all who seek You. Jesus, I trust in You.Image via Web Gallery of ArtSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Romans 10:18-21 — Why is the Jewish nation now outside the kingdom of God? In this sermon on Romans 10:18–21 titled “The Gospel and the Jews,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones analyzes and confirms that it is not because the Jews lack hearing or because there is a lack of plain teaching to them. Paul has made three things very clear thus far in Romans: the way of salvation, the inclusion of the Gentiles, and the exclusion of the Jews. The Jews did in fact receive very clear teaching about this from Moses and other prophets. Moses even explicitly said that the kingdom of God would be taken from the Jewish nation and given to a nation bearing fruit. So if the Jews have heard and received teaching, what are the reasons they are no longer in the kingdom? It was due to their false views on salvation. They thought of it in terms of their nation and the fact that they were circumcised. They had a false confidence in their flesh, holding onto their family lineage, and the fact that they had the Scriptures of the Lord. That proved to be their stumbling block. God requires that believers be not only hearers of the law but also doers of the law. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111

Join Paul and Barnabas as they embark on a bold journey to unite Jews and Gentiles under Christ, fulfilling the Great Commission amidst persecution and trials.In this episode, Paul and Barnabas set out on their mission to spread the gospel, facing resistance and hardships but remaining steadfast in their calling. As they witness the growing movement of believers in Antioch, they prepare for greater challenges and an emerging role as leaders of the early church.Today's Bible verse is Matthew 28:19, from the King James Version.Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ephesians 2:14-18 NLTFor Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us. He did this by ending the system of law with its commandments and regulations. He made peace between Jews and Gentiles by creating in himself one new people from the two groups. Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of his death on the cross, and our hostility toward each other was put to death. He brought this Good News of peace to you Gentiles who were far away from him, and peace to the Jews who were near. Now all of us can come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us. When you hear the phrase “hostility towards each other” who comes to mind for you? I doubt it's a race of people, but a person. Maybe two? We need to see the Bible's teaching as principles of the heart that apply to all our relationships. In the quietness of this moment, you know that any hostility that has been built in your heart is not good for you. It's not good for your kids. Where do you need God to “break down the wall of hostility that separates you”? Where do you need Him to “end the system of law with its commandments and regulations”? Where do you need Him to bring you peace and put hostility in your heart to a final death? For your sake.Let's pray together: “Heavenly Father, take any hostility I have, that which I realize and that which I don't, or won't, or can't. I need to let go of barriers in my heart and receive what You have provided for me in love, grace, and protection. As above, so below.”

In this Radio Feature, Rabbi Gary continues to discuss Paul's love for the Jewish People. This 1 minute episode will air on KKLA 99.5 in Los Angeles, beginning February 13, 2026, on Fridays during rush hour.Send a text

Our Election in Christ (6)  (audio) David Eells – 2/11/26 I'm going to continue where we left off last time about election and the manifestation of those He foreknew. There are some objections to election and predestination. The one I hear the most from people is that God loves the world. (Joh.3:16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life. Of course, when people read this verse, they think it means that God loves the whole world. Well, as we've seen from the Scriptures, the Bible doesn't teach that God loves the whole world, and even in this verse, it doesn't say that because there is a condition given for God's love here. The condition is “whosoever believeth on him,” and that limits God's love to a very few. The majority are not going to believe on the Son, since the only way to have any hope of believing on the Son is to receive the gift of faith from God. (Eph.2:8) For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; (9) not of works, that no man should glory. You see, faith is a gift from God; believing on the Son is a gift from God. The people in the world who do believe on the Son are the ones to whom God has given the gift to come to the Son and have eternal life. If God did love the whole world, then He could have used a much better method for revealing His Son to the world; instead, God didn't make it easy for the world to receive that revelation. First of all, 99.9999% or more of the world has never seen His Son or the miracles that He has done. And the world is so contrary to the Son that it seems that if the Father really loved the whole world, He would make it easier for the world to receive this revelation and understanding. Jesus' teachings and principles are so contrary to the world that you have to go against everything that you are in order to follow Him. That's not natural, but then God's salvation isn't natural; it's supernatural. It says all through the Word that God limits His love to those who are His own. For instance, (Joh.13:1) Now before the feast of the passover, Jesus knowing that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto his Father, having loved his own that were in the world, he loved them unto the end. A good reason for God to love the world is that His own are in the world, but notice in the parable of the wheat and the tares (Matthew 13:24-30,36-43), Jesus Himself said that not everybody in the world is His own. Jesus was the sower, and He told us that the devil was the one who sowed the tares. (Mat.13:36) Then he left the multitudes, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Explain unto us the parable of the tares of the field. (37) And he answered and said, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man; (38) and the field is the world; and the good seed, these are the sons of the kingdom; and the tares are the sons of the evil [one]; (39) and the enemy that sowed them is the devil. Jesus didn't claim the tares as His own, and, I might add, that a tare can never become wheat, nor can wheat ever become a tare because a wheat is a wheat and a tare is a tare. They are two different seeds, and that's true of everyone in the world; they are one seed or the other. They are either a child of God or a son of the devil. Jesus didn't claim everybody in the world and here's another good example of that: (Joh.10:16) And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring (So they haven't come to Him yet.), and they shall hear (So they haven't even heard of Him yet.) my voice: and they shall become one flock, one shepherd. He's talking about a multitude of people who include us. We are included in this group. So at the time Jesus made this statement, there were people who didn't know Him, they hadn't heard of Him, and they hadn't even been born yet, but they have been His. God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world; therefore, our election has nothing to do with time. (Eph.1:3) Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly [places] in Christ: (4) even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blemish before him in love: (5) having foreordained us unto adoption as sons through Jesus Christ unto himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. We have belonged to Christ since the time God set His plan into action at the beginning. We were chosen in Him as our Savior at the very beginning. “Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold” and they are going to become one flock with one Shepherd. So when He says, “having loved his own,” He's only talking about those who come from God, those who belong to God. He's only talking about the wheat. (Rom.9:10) And not only so; but Rebecca also having conceived by one, [even] by our father Isaac-- (11) for [the children] being not yet born, neither having done anything good or bad, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth, (12) it was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. (13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. Before they had done anything, Jacob belonged to God; Jacob was God's before he was born. That makes it obvious that “God so loved the world” means He's only loving Jacob, or Israel, because these are the people who have been given the gift of faith to come to Him and believe on Him. (Joh.15:19) If ye were of the world, the world would love its own: but because ye are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. God did not choose the world; He chose us “out of the world.” In effect, that means God chose not to choose the rest of the world. The Bible says God hates all workers of iniquity: (Psa.5:5) The arrogant shall not stand in thy sight: Thou hatest all workers of iniquity. Jesus told us (Joh.14:21) He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself unto him. So, again, we see the love of the Father is shown only to those who love Jesus. Another verse, where the wisdom of God is speaking, says the same thing: (Pro.8:17) I love them that love me; And those that seek me diligently shall find me. The Bible says three times in the New Testament that Jesus is the wisdom of God (Luke 11:49; 1 Corinthians 1:24,30). There is a condition to the manifestation of God's love. I say “manifestation” because God loved us before we were. God loved Jacob before he was born. God loved him even before he had done anything because it's not by works, it's by election. God put His love upon those whom He chose in Christ before the foundation of the world. They are the elect among the called, and they will love God. You see, when Wisdom says, “I love them that love me,” that is conditional love. (Rom.5:8) But God commendeth his own love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. God wanted to show us His love in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. God, Who sees the end from the beginning (Isaiah 41:4), loved us for what He knew He was going to create from before the foundation of the world (Romans 8:28-30). God loved the end creation that He saw by faith. His love is manifested for those who walk according to His commandments because they love Christ. “God commended His own love toward us....” Who is He talking to here? (Rom.1:7) To all that are in Rome (You might think that he's addressing everybody in Rome, but he goes on to qualify this.), beloved of God, called [to be] saints.... That's very, very conditional. He's talking to those who are beloved of God and called “saints.” (Rom.1:7) To all that are in Rome, beloved of God, called [to be] saints: Grace to you (The only people who receive grace are the people who are beloved of God, called “saints.”) and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. God didn't give grace to anyone else. The Lord promised salvation to those who were in Christ from the foundation of the world because Christ died for us. People always say, “Well, Christ died for the world.” No, the Bible says that Christ died “for whosoever will” (Mark 8:34; Revelation 22:17). God is the one Who works in us to will and to do of His good pleasure (Ephesians 1:5,11; Philippians 2:13), and “whosoever will” is only those who have the gift from God of being drawn to Christ. (Joh.6:44) No man can come to me, except the Father that sent me draw him: and I will raise him up in the last day. They're the ones who have the will. So, it is to “whosoever will” but, specifically, Christ died for us and for everyone in the world who is the called of God. They're the ones who are invited to partake of Christ. (Joh.14:22) Judas (not Iscariot) saith unto him, Lord, what is come to pass that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Why would He want to manifest Himself to these and not to the world? It's because He's very particular; He's revealing Himself only to God's chosen. (23) Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my word: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. And in the next chapter it says, (15:10) If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. So the manifestation of God's love is for those who are obedient and who walk in Christ. And the manifestation of God's love by faith is for those who have not yet come to Christ, but will come to Him because Jesus said, (Joh.6:37) All that which the Father giveth me shall come unto me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. God loves them, not for what they are now, but for what they will be when they do come to Christ and walk in obedience to Him. Let me show you more proof that Christ died to redeem us and not the world. (Mat.20:28) Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many. Notice that it doesn't say “all,” it says “many.” Who are the “many” this is talking about? (1Co.15:22) For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. We know that all of us have been in Adam. Everyone born naturally is in Adam, but all of us who have been born spiritually are in Christ and if a person abides in Christ, Scripture says, (1Jn.3:9) Whosoever is begotten of God doeth no sin, because his seed abideth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is begotten of God. And that's where eternal life is; it's in the Son. (5:12) He that hath the Son hath the life; he that hath not the Son of God hath not the life. A person who abides in Christ is that seed who was chosen from before the foundation of the world. A person who abides in Christ is the one whom God loves, the one whom God sent Jesus to ransom. A “ransom” is “the payment demanded for the release of someone from captivity” or, in other words, it's the price paid to deliver a prisoner from bondage. (Isa.53:1) Who hath believed our message? And to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? (4) Surely he hath borne our griefs (The Hebrew there is “our sicknesses.”), and carried our sorrows (The Hebrew there is “our pain.”); yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. Notice, Isaiah says “our.” This is not for the world. This is for us; this is for those who are in Covenant with God. (Isa.53:8) By oppression and judgment he was taken away; and as for his generation, who [among them] Considered that he was cut off out of the land of the living for the transgression of my people (It doesn't say that He was cut off for the transgression of the whole world or, let me say, all the people in the world. It says, “for the transgression of my people.”) to whom the stroke [was due]? (11) He shall see of the travail of his soul, [and] shall be satisfied: by the knowledge of himself shall my righteous servant justify many (Again, it's not “all”; it's “many.”); and he shall bear their iniquities. So He only bore the iniquities of those whom He justified. (12) Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he poured out his soul unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors: yet he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors. Now I want you to look at this next verse one more time because people like to claim it for just anybody who says they're a Christian. (Rom.8:28) And we know that to them that love God all things work together for good, [even] to them that are called according to [his] purpose. But people don't go on to consider the next verse. (29) For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained [to be] conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. The promise here, to work “all things together for good,” is made to those who love God, and we know who loves God because Jesus told us those who keep His commandments are those who love Him. Those who walk by faith are able to obey. I'm not saying that they don't ever fail; I'm saying they are able to walk into obedience, getting closer and closer to God, because they walk by faith. We know that power comes from God because of faith (Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 1:24; 1 Peter 1:5). So Romans 8:28 is talking about those “whom he foreknew.” They are the ones He predestined to come into the image of His Son, 30-, 60-and 100-fold. Everything is going to work together for their good; even chastening and the curse work together for the good of those who are called of God to come into the image of His Son. In the prophecy given to Joseph, the husband of Mary, it said, (Mat.1:21) And she shall bring forth a son; and thou shalt call his name JESUS; for it is he that shall save his people from their sins. The only ones who are saved from their sins are the ones who are already His people. They are His people by election, not by manifestation. (Eph.1:1) And you [did he make alive,] when ye were dead through your trespasses and sins, (2) wherein ye once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the powers of the air, of the spirit that now worketh in the sons of disobedience; (3) among whom we also all once lived in the lust of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. That means when we were in the world, by our nature we looked just like the next sinner. Remember, the only difference between Jacob and Esau was election. (Rom.9:10) And not only so; but Rebecca also having conceived by one, [even] by our father Isaac-- (11) for [the children] being not yet born, neither having done anything good or bad, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth, (12) it was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. (13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. It has to do with God choosing the elect to be in Christ before the foundation of the world. The only people Jesus is coming to save are His people, as the Bible says, over and over and over. (Mat.1:23) Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, And they shall call his name Immanuel; which is, being interpreted, God with us. One time, when I read that, I felt the Holy Spirit remind me about what the angel Gabriel spoke to Mary: (Luk.1:28) And he came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favored (This is the Greek word charitoo, and it means “endued with grace.”), the Lord [is] with thee. Folks, this means, “God is with us.” The Lord is with those who have God's grace. You see, “Immanuel,” or “God with us,” is not talking about God physically walking among the worldly people; it's talking about God being with us. He was with Mary because she was given grace, and God is with us because we were given grace, which is the “unmerited favor of God.” (Luk.1:68) Blessed [be] the Lord, the God of Israel; For he hath visited and wrought redemption for his people. People tell me, “That was just for the Jews, David.” Well, how many of the Jews received Him? How many of the Jews received redemption? It was only a very few. No, God's people are scattered throughout the world, and they are His people according to election because even before they were born, He chose them. Jesus brought redemption for His people. And He not only brought redemption, but He brought (Luk.1:71) Salvation from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us. If salvation is for everybody, who would have an enemy? Salvation can't be for everybody if it is to deliver us from our enemies. (74) To grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies Should serve him without fear. (77) To give knowledge of salvation unto his people In the remission of their sins. Jesus said, (Mat.5:44) But I say unto you, love your enemies, and pray for them that persecute you. Jesus was talking about people being our enemies, and Paul said this, too: (Rom.12:14) Bless them that persecute you; bless, and curse not. I want to show you a prophecy that many people discount because it was given by the High Priest Caiaphas, but they moved in prophecy in the Old Testament, just like God's New Testament people move in prophecy. (Joh.11:49) But a certain one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, (50) nor do ye take account that it is expedient for you that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not. (51) Now this he said not of himself: but, being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for the nation (That was obviously a true prophecy; where he went wrong was that he thought he was the one who was supposed to carry it out because of his jealousy.); (52) and not for the nation only, but that he might also gather together into one the children of God that are scattered abroad. Who were these children of God who were scattered abroad? Was it Israel? Maybe a very small portion of them were Jews, if you consider the day of Pentecost was when Jews from all nations were gathered together (Acts 2:1-14). However, the prophecy I'm thinking about is where Jesus said, (Joh.10:16) And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice: and they shall become one flock, one shepherd. So Jesus is speaking of the Gentiles in this verse. Jesus died in order to gather together the Gentile children of God into one flock with the believing Jewish children of God. They were always children of God because, according to election, if you are a child of God, you are always a child of God. You were never a son of the devil. Never. The Bible never says that you were a son of the devil and converted to be a child of God. The Bible teaches there are two seeds: one is a wheat and the other is a tare. God sowed His Word in this carnal vessel, and that's the one whom He loves. (Joh.3:13) And no one hath ascended into heaven, but he that descended out of heaven, [even] the Son of man, [who is in heaven.] Some versions add “who is in heaven,” but it doesn't belong there, according to the numeric pattern, and it's not in any of the ancient manuscripts. That's because Jesus was standing right there in front of them, so “who is in heaven” doesn't make sense. The only one who ascended into Heaven is the Son of God who descended out of Heaven and those in whom the Son of God lives will go to heaven. He's both the sower who sows the seed, which is the Word, and He is also the seed of God. What the Word is creating in us is what God loves. God doesn't love the flesh; the flesh is the enemy of God. (Rom.8:7) Because the mind of the flesh is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be. God doesn't love the carnal man. He loves what's been born from above, born from Heaven and will go to Heaven. Another verse that helps us to understand this is (Joh.17:18) As thou didst send me into the world, even so sent I them into the world. What does that mean? Isaiah says the same thing: (Isa.9:1) But there shall be no gloom to her that was in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali; but in the latter time hath he made it glorious, by the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations (or gentiles). (2) The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. (3) Thou hast multiplied the nation, thou hast increased their joy: they joy before thee according to the joy in harvest, as men rejoice when they divide the spoil. (4) For the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, thou hast broken as in the day of Midian. (5) For all the armor of the armed man in the tumult, and the garments rolled in blood, shall be for burning, for fuel of fire. (6) For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father (The Hebrew says literally, “The Father of Eternity.”), Prince of Peace. (7) Of the increase of his government and of peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to establish it, and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. He says that the Father sent the Son into the world. You see, God foreknew us, and what we are becoming is the Word of God that came down out of Heaven. One reason God foreknew us is because the Word came out of God Himself. We are born of God, as the Bible says (John 1:13; 3:5; 1 John 2:29; 3:9; 4:7; 5:4; 1 Peter 1:23, etc.), because your new man came out of God Himself, and that's who God loves. Your new man is the Word, which is the nature of Christ, and your new man has been born of God Himself. So, in that way, we've been sent. Jesus was sent from the Father and we've been sent, too. No, not the carnal man, but we, the spiritual man, have been sent of God into this world. The more of the Word we get into us, the more we come to know the Father. (Rom.11:25) For I would not, brethren, have you ignorant of this mystery, lest ye be wise in your own conceits, that a hardening in part hath befallen Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in; (26) and so all Israel shall be saved.... The completeness of God's people includes “the fulness of the Gentiles.” Jesus said, (Joh.6:37) All that which the Father giveth me shall come unto me.... I'm not saying “once saved, always saved” because there are many who will fall away. (Mat.22:14) For many are called, but few chosen. You see, we have to prove who we are by walking in obedience to Christ. We have to prove that we are part of those who are called “all Israel.” We have to prove that we are of the promised seed (Galatians 3:16) who is beloved of God. It may not seem reasonable, but there are many Scriptures in the Bible to back this up, such as, (1Jn.2:4) He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; (5) but whoso keepeth his word, in him verily hath the love of God been perfected. Hereby we know that we are in him: (6) he that saith he abideth in him ought himself also to walk even as he walked. And so when we read verses like John 3:16, we have the level of revelation that God permits because of our lack of understanding. (Isa.28:9) Whom will he teach knowledge? and whom will he make to understand the message? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts? (10) For it is precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, there a little. I feel as if the Lord showed me that when we are carnal, it's easier for us to understand this as if God does love the whole world and therefore not attribute foolishness to God. But as we grow in knowledge, the more we see the plan and wisdom of God, and the more we fear God. (Rom.9:14) What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. (15) For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion. (16) So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that hath mercy. Without enough understanding, we are liable to say what they said to Paul: (19) … Why doth he still find fault? For who withstandeth his will? And Paul would give us the same reply he gave back then: (20) Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why didst thou make me thus? (21) Or hath not the potter a right over the clay, from the same lump to make one part a vessel unto honor, and another unto dishonor? God permits people to believe that He sent His Son to the whole world until they can gain the understanding that God sent His Son only for all New Testament spiritual Israel, just as in the Old Testament God revealed Himself only to natural Israel (Psalm 127:20). (Pro.25:2) It is the glory of God to conceal a thing; But the glory of kings is to search out a matter. God has hidden many revelations in His Word, but those who are honest and obedient to the Word will find those revelations. God has hidden His revelations on purpose so that He can reveal them to whom He wants to reveal them. God promised (Rev.2:17) To him that overcometh, to him will I give of the hidden manna.... The people who will ultimately get the revelation of the hidden manna will be those who overcome. I've been asked, “David, can't you just give the revelation to someone?” Sure, you can give it to someone, but they'll lose it. I've shared the hidden manna with people who, because of sin, couldn't hang on to it. You see, God permits childish revelation. It's like what Paul said: (1Co.13:11) When I was a child, I spake as a child, I felt as a child, I thought as a child: now that I am become a man, I have put away childish things. (12) For now we see in a mirror, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know fully even as also I was fully known. He's talking about maturity. (9) For we know in part, and we prophesy in part; (10) but when that which is perfect is come, that which is in part shall be done away. He's talking about growing up and changing your thinking. When your children were young, you didn't go into deep detail. You taught them very simply because that's all they could receive at the time. God is that way with us. When we first enter into the Kingdom, God allows us to believe some things that are not fully true, but they may be a foundation for deeper understanding later on. The scripture, John 3:16, is correct and very perfect, but what you think about it might not be perfect. Yes, “God so loved the world,” but if “God so loved” everybody in “the world,” that would mean He loves the tares that the devil sows in the world. What we've seen instead is that God only loves those who love Him. And those who love Him are those whom He foreknew from before the foundation of the world.

“Is Sola Scriptura self-refuting?” This question opens a discussion on the foundations of Scripture’s authority, while also addressing why Catholics believe the Eucharist is essential for salvation. Additional topics include the salvation of Gentiles in Romans 2 and the theological implications of drinking the blood of Jesus despite biblical prohibitions. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 08:03 – Is Sola Scriptura Self Refuting? 14:40 – Why do Catholics believe they need the eucharist to be saved? 35:12 – How are the gentiles in Romans 2 saved? 50:35 – If the bible says drinking blood is a sin, then why is drinking the blood of Jesus not a sin?

Using as launching pad the Western Christian liturgical calendar celebration of Epiphany (the day recognizing Jesus's first revelation to Gentiles--in this case, the Magi) this episode is a discussion between LDF host and co-host Dan Wotherspoon and Mark Crego about the importance of being ready at all times and within any group to share our witness with others. As it says in 1 Peter 3:15: "and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear," Dan and Mark share how we might be able to do this effectively during or after our faith has begun to shift because the once easy "I know" responses no longer feel authentic for us. How do we share what is currently going on with us in language that indicates the "hope" that is still in us? The hosts focus on three situations: speaking with active LDS family and friends, speaking with friends who want to tear down the church, and speaking with outsiders to our tradition.  Listen in! 

Witness how Peter's obedience to God's vision opens the door for the Gentiles to receive the Holy Spirit, transforming lives and expanding the reach of the gospel beyond boundaries.In this episode, Peter receives a divine vision challenging long-held beliefs about clean and unclean, ultimately leading him to share the gospel with the Roman centurion Cornelius and his household. Through this encounter, the Holy Spirit moves powerfully, breaking down cultural barriers and extending God's grace to the Gentiles.Today's Bible verse is Matthew 5:6, from the King James Version.Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

By Him and through Him, the glorious mystery of reconciling Jew and Gentile to Himself will be completed. We must guard against unbelieving hearts and remember that the natural branches can be grafted back into the tree.

God Sees a Jesus Follower as Being “In Christ”; Therefore, God Sees a Jesus Follower as His Son or Daughter MESSAGE SUMMARY: As Followers of Jesus, you are "In Christ" -- God looks at you, as a Jesus Follower, and He sees Jesus in you. Throughout the Epistles we find: "In Christ" or "In Him". In Galatians 3:14, Paul tells you that your faith in Jesus makes you “In Christ” and a recipient of God's Covenant with Abraham: “so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.". Also, Paul goes even further, in Galatians 3:25-28, to tell you that, through your faith in Jesus, you no longer need any kind of intermediary because you are “In Christ” and you have a personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe: “But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian.”. When God sees you, “In Christ" as a Jesus Follower, He sees Jesus, the Son. Therefore, God sees you as His son or daughter.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, everything in me resists following you into the garden of Gethsemane to fall on my face to the ground before you. Grant me the courage to follow you all the way to the cross, whatever that might mean for my life. And then, by your grace, lead me to resurrection life and power. In Jesus' name, amen.   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 100). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Despair. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Joy. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Romans 3:21-26; Romans 6:5-11; Romans 6:22-23; Psalms 63:1-11. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part 3 – Incomplete Finished Work”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Has the Church Replaced Israel in God's Plan?Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with Dr. David K. BernardIn light of ongoing global attention on the nation of Israel, many Christians are revisiting an important theological question: Has the church replaced Israel in God's plan, or does God still have a future purpose for the Jewish people?In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard offers a thoughtful, biblically grounded answer rooted in passages such as Romans 9–11 and Galatians 4. He explains that the church is the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, with Israel playing a vital role in bringing forth the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Through Christ, God's promises are fulfilled not by ethnicity, but by faith, as both Jews and Gentiles are invited into the church through the work of the Holy Spirit.At the same time, Dr. Bernard clarifies that this truth does not mean God is finished with the nation of Israel. Scripture indicates that God still has a purpose and plan for their salvation.This episode brings biblical clarity and balance to a complex and often emotional topic. If you're seeking a scriptural perspective on Israel, the church, and God's plan of salvation, this conversation is essential listening.Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

Acts 26 So Agrippa said to Paul, “You have permission to speak for yourself.” Then Paul stretched out his hand and made his defense: 2 “I consider myself fortunate that it is before you, King Agrippa, I am going to make my defense today against all the accusations of the Jews, 3 especially because you are familiar with all the customs and controversies of the Jews. Therefore I beg you to listen to me patiently. 4 “My manner of life from my youth, spent from the beginning among my own nation and in Jerusalem, is known by all the Jews. 5 They have known for a long time, if they are willing to testify, that according to the strictest party of our religion I have lived as a Pharisee. 6 And now I stand here on trial because of my hope in the promise made by God to our fathers, 7 to which our twelve tribes hope to attain, as they earnestly worship night and day. And for this hope I am accused by Jews, O king! 8 Why is it thought incredible by any of you that God raises the dead? 9 “I myself was convinced that I ought to do many things in opposing the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 And I did so in Jerusalem. I not only locked up many of the saints in prison after receiving authority from the chief priests, but when they were put to death I cast my vote against them. 11 And I punished them often in all the synagogues and tried to make them blaspheme, and in raging fury against them I persecuted them even to foreign cities. 12 “In this connection I journeyed to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests. 13 At midday, O king, I saw on the way a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, that shone around me and those who journeyed with me. 14 And when we had all fallen to the ground, I heard a voice saying to me in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.' 15 And I said, ‘Who are you, Lord?' And the Lord said, ‘I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. 16 But rise and stand upon your feet, for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to appoint you as a servant and witness to the things in which you have seen me and to those in which I will appear to you, 17 delivering you from your people and from the Gentiles—to whom I am sending you 18 to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.' 19 “Therefore, O King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, 20 but declared first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all the region of Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance. 21 For this reason the Jews seized me in the temple and tried to kill me. 22 To this day I have had the help that comes from God, and so I stand here testifying both to small and great, saying nothing but what the prophets and Moses said would come to pass: 23 that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles.” 24 And as he was saying these things in his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.” 25 But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. 26 For the king knows about these things, and to him I speak boldly. For I am persuaded that none of these things has escaped his notice, for this has not been done in a corner. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.” 28 And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” 29 And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.” 30 Then the king rose, and the governor and Bernice and those who were sitting with them. 31 And when they had withdrawn, they said to one another, “This man is doing nothing to deserve death or imprisonment.” 32 And Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.”

Daily Dose of Hope February 9, 2026   Scripture: I Corinthians 12   Prayer:  Dear God, You are amazing!  How awesome it is that you who created all things are also so intimately involved in our lives.  We give you glory and praise for who you are.  We are so thankful for your love.  We want to know you more.  We want and need to hear your voice.  Help us set aside our scattered thoughts and focus on you.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, hear our prayers...  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We are journeying through Paul's pastoral letters.  Currently, we are in I Corinthians. Today's passage is I Corinthians 12.  Paul starts by reminding the believers of their former ignorance.  Afterall, there was a time not too long ago that they didn't know about the one true God but worshiped idols.  Now, they know Jesus and have the Holy Spirit within them – the Spirit of the Living God inside their physical body!  One of the many transformations that happens to us when we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior is that the Holy Spirit gives us a spiritual gift (sometimes even more than one.)    A spiritual gift could be seen as a God-given capacity that allows each believer to serve and uplift the body of Christ. And how do you get into this body of Christ?  In verses 13-14, Paul writes, For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.  Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. The body of Christ is Jesus' church.  The specific word that Paul uses here for gift is charisma, which comes from charis, which is the Greek word for grace.  A spiritual gift is a gift of God's grace.  It's not something we have earned or developed.  But there is a wide diversity of gifts that the Spirit offers, and Paul lists many of these, including the gift of preaching/teaching, prophecy, apostleship, evangelism, and shepherding. There are even more specific gifts under these main headings. But while there is diversity in gifts, there is unity in purpose. The body of Christ requires all these different people with different and unique gifts to be working together to ensure that Jesus' mission continues to be carried out in the world. One gift is not more important than another but they are all essential to have a fully functioning body.   The Corinthians knew about the spiritual gifts.  This would not been new information to them.  But the problem was how they were using the gifts.  Certain gifts were being lifted up as more important than others.  And there appears to be a bit of a free for all in how the gifts are being used.  So, Paul wants them to know a different way.  He wants them to understand that all the gifts work together to bring unity to the church.  In fact, the church needs all of the gifts to be fruitful and effective.  He doesn't want the Corinthians to stop using their spiritual gifts, but he wants them to do so with maturity.  And as we will see in the next chapter, he wants the church to use their gifts with love (rather than arrogance or pride.)   Do you know what spiritual gifts you have been given? If not, I strongly encourage you to pray about that today. There are some really good spiritual gifts assessments that are free online as well. God has given us gifts for the purpose of building up the body of Christ. If you know your gifts, are you currently making use of them at New Hope or in your local church? There are many parts but one body. Your gifts are needed to form a fully functioning, healthy, thriving community of faith!   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

You may wish you could be related to some famous person, but you cannot simply graft yourself into that person's family tree. And yet, God has grafted Gentile believers into the spiritual family tree of Abraham. If you believe in Jesus Christ, you too are a part of the olive tree made up of Jews and Gentiles throughout history who have trusted in the Lord for salvation. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/581/29?v=20251111

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Leviticus 7–9; Acts 15 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In this powerful episode, Heather invites us on a journey through Leviticus 7–9 and Acts 15, exploring the weighty requirements of Old Testament law and the freeing grace found in Jesus. As we gather from around the world, Heather reminds us that the Scriptures ultimately point us to Christ—the true source of life. Together, we witness the complex rituals and sacrifices that marked Israel's worship, and then pivot to the liberating message of Acts: salvation is not about meeting an impossible set of demands, but about receiving the undeserved grace of Jesus. Heather draws a beautiful distinction between the heavy yoke of the law and the easy yoke that Christ offers, challenging us to lay down the burdens we create for ourselves and rest in His completed work. This episode also includes a time for prayer, reflection, and encouragement for the journey ahead. Whether you carry the weight of ancient law or your own modern expectations, today's episode offers a fresh invitation to surrender to the love, peace, and freedom found in Jesus alone. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Did you feel the weight of it? The heavy yoke of Leviticus? The requirements of the law were elaborate and complex. The details were exacting, right down to putting blood on the right ear, thumb, and right big toe of the priest. It was a heavy yoke with staggering specificity. They put themselves in peril if they got it wrong. Yet in Acts today, Paul and Barnabas are preaching a different message. A gospel of good news, not a heavy yoke. All the demands of the Law of Moses are fulfilled in Jesus. He is the sacrificial lamb, the high priest, our advocate, and our temple. Jesus is the reality behind all the shadow play of the Law of Moses. The pressures of the law are lethal if they are misunderstood or misapplied. We are to trust in Jesus, who has made us right with God, not the heavy yoke of the Book of Leviticus, and not all our attempts at fulfilling the law's demands. This heavy yoke was more than anyone could carry, then or now. Essentially, Peter says in Acts, let's not put the book of Leviticus on the backs of these Gentile converts and tell them to fulfill it when neither we nor our ancestors could carry it. We know that the only one who has ever been able to bear the weight of it is the Lord Jesus himself. Salvation and being made right with God comes only by grace through the faith of Jesus. Jesus alone carried that heavy yoke. We can't do it. No one ever has. And God is proclaiming that gift of life and hope, the easy yoke, to Gentiles too. It's not Jesus plus circumcision, Jesus plus Levitical law, or Jesus plus Moses. It's just Jesus. His undeserved grace is it. That's how we are made right with God. By walking in His Spirit, we are released into the goodness of this good news. You and I may not have the Levitical laws around our neck. It's not the Levitical laws that make it hard for us to receive God's grace. When we read Leviticus, most of us probably think it's just a little weird. But we do create our own morally equivalent barriers that make it hard to live and experience God's grace and strength. We come up with things like: if I were just a better mom, made more money, got my temper under control, if I was more moral, read my Bible more, went to church more, gave more, then I'm sure God would love me more. It's not the Book of Leviticus you are trying to carry. It's the Book of Heather, or Carol, or Andrew, or Hunter. Just insert your name. We create our own morally equivalent books that make it hard for us to receive the good news of the gospel. When the church of Antioch got the letter delivered by Barsabbas and Silas, it brought the believers great joy as they read it. It said, "Take off your yoke." That's why they were joyous. They were freed from that burden that they could not carry. You don't have to shoulder the book of Leviticus, or the book that you have written for yourself. You can rejoice because Christ Jesus has done everything necessary for you to live the life that he intends for you to live, in the strength that he alone can p TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

You may wish you could be related to some famous person, but you cannot simply graft yourself into that person's family tree. And yet, God has grafted Gentile believers into the spiritual family tree of Abraham. If you believe in Jesus Christ, you too are a part of the olive tree made up of Jews and Gentiles throughout history who have trusted in the Lord for salvation. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/791/29?v=20251111

Send us a textVideo PodcastBefore the Book of Mormon  went to press, John Whitmar copied down the "doctrine of Christ" contained in it.  It was this doctrine that was taught at the very beginning.   However, after the Book of Mormon  was printed it was all but put away.   There are no sermons, no records of teachings, classes, expounding on the doctrine and the content contained in the Book of Mormon available in early church history.   It is seldom mentioned.  Instead a very different church emerged under the leadership of Joseph Smith  who conveniently called himself as a prophet through revelation.   (which came from him).   The topics that allured early saints to the movement were an incorrect concept of Zion, a living prophet. a tale of a city right around the corner with the imminent return of Jesus christ, an authority restored to the earth in the form of priesthood who had keys to mysteries and secret things from heaven not available to the common members.  A new church took shape with doctrines and teachings far removed from the simple gospel contained in the Book of Mormon The gentiles continue to stumble in favor of the teachings of a man - Joseph Smith  -  instead of the gospel contained in the Book of Mormon  that had just become available- preserved for thousands of years.   This continues to this day.  Which begs the Question.....will the Gentiles ever really embrace the Book of Mormon gospel of Jesus Christ?   Restored Gospel - Scripture Search and Study Resources Contact us:restoredgospelpodcast@gmail.comMusic by Michael Barrett

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

What does it truly mean to belong to Jesus—and what might be holding you back from answering His call?In this message from Romans 1:1–7, Pastor Epi launches a verse-by-verse journey through the book of Romans, helping us understand the gospel through its original context and timeless truth. Paul introduces himself not as a religious superstar, but as a bondservant of Christ—freely surrendered, fully devoted, and radically transformed.This sermon explores what it means to live in true freedom by being bound to Christ, how God keeps His promises no matter how long it takes, and why every believer—Jew or Gentile, strong or struggling—is called, loved, and invited to belong just as they are.

Pastor Christian taught from Romans that the gospel brings unity by leveling everyone—Jew and Gentile alike—reminding us that all have sinned, all need grace, and no one stands above another in God's family. Following Jesus means loving like He loved—choosing forgiveness, humility, and community—because the gospel produces real love and unity, making us one family in Christ. Listen and be challenged. Support the show

In this sermon, Don’t Reject the Truth, Pastor Rick Temple teaches how God challenges us to confront the truth that stretches our assumptions, pride, and comfort zones, just as Peter did with Cornelius and the Gentiles. Through Acts 10:44–48, the message calls believers to remain open to God’s movement, embrace necessary change, and avoid rejecting truth simply because it disrupts familiar thinking.

Pastor Jim unpacks Ephesians 2:11-22 to show how Jesus is not only our peace but the one who has destroyed every dividing wall. What once separated Jew and Gentile, near and far, is now reconciled through the cross. Jim reminds us that salvation is not just about forgiveness but about forming a new family, a new humanity, where God's Spirit dwells. The church is not a religious club or a place for behavior management. It is God's living temple on earth. In Christ, our identities are made secure, hostility is put to death, and unity is possible not through human effort but by the presence of God himself living among his people.

This Sunday, we will conclude Mark 13 by examining verses 28-37. This chapter is a single prophecy from Jesus about Jerusalem's destruction and His Second Coming. Jesus starts by predicting the city's destruction, and the disciples ask two questions: When will these things happen, and what will be the sign that they are about to occur? From verses 5-23, Jesus answers the "what sign" question regarding Jerusalem's destruction. Wars, rumors of wars, natural disasters, and Christian persecution are not signs of the end; they are the beginning of birth pains (verses 5-13). Then Jesus explains the real sign that Jerusalem is about to fall—the abomination of desolation (verses 14-23). Luke clarifies this reference from Daniel for us Gentiles, saying it occurs when Jerusalem is surrounded by armies (Luke 21:20-21). Next, Jesus addresses the second question about His second coming in verses 24-27. The sign will be the shaking of heaven and the lights in the sky going out. On Sunday, in verses 28-37, Jesus answers the first question, "When will this happen?" He first describes the destruction of Jerusalem, stating that "this generation will not pass away until all these things happen" (verses 28-31). Then, He speaks about when the Son of Man will return in verses 32-37, emphasizing that "no one knows, so stay awake!" This outline seems straightforward, but, as you know, there is much debate about this chapter and which events Jesus refers to in each verse. We will also address several difficult questions about this passage: Who is "he" that the ESV says is near in verse 29? What does Jesus mean by saying this generation will not pass away until "ALL THESE THINGS" have happened? How can Jesus be God and not know the time of His return? And what does staying awake really mean? I pray that God gives us clarity and understanding as we study this text. You can prepare by reading it a few times before Sunday. I. Trust Jesus' Word That Will Never Pass Away (V. 28-31) II. Stay Awake, Faithful To The End (v. 32-37)

God is faithful and will keep his promises. Though many Israelites rejected Christ, God did not totally reject Israel for a remnant was saved by grace. In this passage Paul speaks of this remnant and explains how Israel's unbelief has brought blessing to Gentiles which will cause some unbelieving Jews to be jealous and turn Christ.

Preparing, for the Man-Child (1) (audio) David Eells 2/8/26   What's Hidden in the Barn of Our Life? Linda Smith - 11/16/2011 (David's notes in red) I had this dream, and after a few minutes, I got up and wrote it down while it was still fresh in my mind. My brother and I were putting some tools in my car. We were going somewhere to do some work. There were two hammers, some screwdrivers, saws, and some other tools in a small cardboard box. Then my brother handed me a new level and said, “Here, we might need this level”. Then a friend walked over to my brother and me and asked, “Do you really think you guys are going to need that level?” (The level is the standard of the world to build natural things on a plane with it; i.e., in agreement with it. However, Father is going beyond our worldly understanding to build hidden spiritual things that are on a plane with His Kingdom. (1Sa.16:7) ... man looketh on the outward appearance, but Jehovah looketh on the heart.) We both agreed that it could be needed, so we would just take it along. Our friend hugged both of us and said, “I'm praying for you guys to be safe and hurry back”. We got in the car and drove off down the road. We had been driving for many miles and then drove up a big mountain. (The big mountain here represents the Kingdom of God and a place of far-reaching vision. Here they “leveled” out.) As we got to the top and leveled out, we could see some old, old buildings just up ahead on the right. (The sheep go to the right.) So my brother said to me, “Let's stop and look around, but we can't stay very long”. He pulled over and parked the car about 30 feet from an old barn and we got out. As we got to the opening of the barn, we could see eight new 6x6 beams, where someone had replaced the old beams. (The support of the barn is 6X6, representing our humanity and 8 represents Jesus, who is sown in and uses our humanity to bring forth fruit. Jesus' name in Greek equals 888 in gematria. It is fitting that Jesus would be the strength of the barn of our natural life to hold it up and together.) The roof of the barn seemed to be the original roof in fairly good condition. (The roof is the barn's “original” shield of faith, which protects it from the heat of the Sun and the storms of life.) As we entered the barn, there were some very old boards on the floor. They were two inches thick, and each board was 12 inches wide with a half-inch space between each board. It had to be the original old flooring. (Representing the “original” walk in the steps of Jesus at this head of the Kingdom.) There were a few cracks and some holes in some of them. Looking down through the cracks and holes, we could see parts of the foundation and it looked strong. We saw very large stones upon other very large stones (representing the foundation of the solid Rocks of the Word) with concrete holding them together. (Jesus, in Paul, laid such a foundation in the lives of the believers. (1Co.3:10) According to the grace of God which was given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder I laid a foundation; and another buildeth thereon. But let each man take heed how he buildeth thereon. (11) For other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. He is the Word we must be founded on.) Now, looking all the way through the barn from where we were standing, there were other types of buildings and they reminded me of an old western town. There were eight buildings side by side with a long wooden-plank walkway in front connecting all the buildings together, but each building had its own roof. (These 8 buildings are the local Body of Jesus, which Linda belongs to. They are connected as one in Him, yet each with their own faith or roof. (Eph.2:19) So then ye are no more strangers and sojourners, but ye are fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God, (20) being built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the chief corner stone; (21) in whom each several building, fitly framed together, groweth into a holy temple in the Lord; (22) in whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God in the Spirit.) We had to walk on through the barn to get to those other buildings. When we walked out of the barn, there was a man standing outside (Jesus). My brother, not seeing the man, walked on, going to look at the other buildings. But the man standing outside spoke to me and said, “Well, you finally got here”, and he smiled. I asked him, “What do you mean, sir?” He replied, “You've come a long way. You are going to look at this barn I'm working on, aren't you?” “Well, sir, I already have, sir, but I do have some questions, if it would be ok to ask you, sir”. “Sure, go ahead and ask me”. “Well, sir, why did you leave all those old boards on the floor?” He smiled and said, “They hold the past history of the barn and I wanted to show the people who came by here, so they can see the hardships the barn has been through”. (The early saints suffered for righteousness' sake as will we.) “Yes, sir, but these old flooring boards have holes and missing pieces in the boards, leaving cracks and holes all through the floor”. “Yes, I know”, he said. “Even in your walk through your own life, there were good times and bad times, things and places you remember. And then there are those holes or missing pieces in your mind of places, things, and times that you don't remember, but they are all there in your mind stored away”. (And God can bring them to remembrance or just use them subconsciously in our daily walk.) “Yes, sir”, I smiled and said, “I guess you're right”. Then he said, “If we look, we can see through the holes in the floor and see some of the foundation. The owner of this barn has built on this strong, solid foundation”. (Our Father is the owner.) “Oh, yes, sir, I can see the foundation; but, sir, why is it dug out under the barn like a basement?” He smiled and said, “That is the root cellar where the owner can store and keep canned food, cheese, and grain for bread, provisions for winter times and hard times. (Spiritual food that is preserved in our hearts for God to use in tribulations. Good roots make a healthy plant.) It is kept down there, where it's always cool to support a healthy life and healthy bodies. Kept and stored each year for many years. It's just like when you read and study the word of God; the word will always be there to nourish your spirit, soul, and body, and to support you in your walk with the Lord”. “Yes, sir, I believe that”. He smiled and said, “Now, the owner of this barn has good soil here to build on and a strong foundation, making the whole barn strong”. (The barn, which is used for a harvest, is supported by the spiritual food of the Word, its roots.) Then I asked him, “What about all the new beams and the new lumber on the walls that you've put in? Won't that take away from the original old look of the barn, sir?” “Oh, no! The beams and the lumber are also barn wood that will quickly turn gray like the original wood. I used them to restore the barn for its future use. I have made this barn stronger and more usable to store and to keep the new wine in this barn (the new wine skin for the new wine of the life of Christ), for the one who owns this barn. (The Father, Who has “kept the best wine for last.” The time of the manifestation of the Sons of God.) I have restored and made this barn strong by my own will as it pleased me.” (This identifies Jesus as the carpenter of this barn. (Jas.1:18) Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. ... (1Co.12:18) But now hath God set the members each one of them in the body, even as it pleased him.) “Yes, sir, I believe you are the true craftsman, sir”. Now, as I was looking one more time at the inside of the barn, I saw for the first time that there was lots of detail work in his artwork; in all the woodwork, such beautiful craftsmanship all around. (Jesus is doing a good work in each of us. From the world's perspective, on the outside, it's a barn like any other barn, but from Father's perspective, on the inside, it's a temple.) There was light shining throughout the whole inside of the barn. (The light of the Word of life in man is Jesus. (Joh.1:1) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (2) The same was in the beginning with God. (3) All things were made through him; and without him was not anything made that hath been made. (4) In him was life; and the life was the light of men. (5) And the light shineth in the darkness; and the darkness apprehended it not.) The light was giving off a crisp, clean glow and there was a feeling of love, joy, and peace in this beautiful, peaceful environment. (The life of Jesus inside the barn.) Then, as we stepped out of the barn, I looked up at the outside of the barn, and it was just that natural, old gray barn. (According to Romans 8, the whole creation is awaiting the “revealing of the Sons of God,” and all the while they are hidden in plain old flesh, just like their prototype, Jesus, was. Joseph looked like the Egyptians on the outside to his brothers but inside he was a son of God.) Then my brother was back at the car, and he was calling out to me, “Come on. We need to be going on our way now.” I turned to the man with whom I had been talking and said to him, “Sir, it was so great talking with you, and thank you so very much, sir, for taking the time to show me and to explain to me all about your barn, sir”. And he smiled and said, “Oh! But this is your barn I'm working on”. (Joh.14:1) Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God, believe also in me. (2) In my Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. (3) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I come again, and will receive you unto myself; that where I am, [there] ye may be also... (1Co.2:9) but as it is written, Things which eye saw not, and ear heard not, And [which] entered not into the heart of man, Whatsoever things God prepared for them that love him.) I was so humbled by the words he spoke. I began crying and crying because the words he spoke were blessing me. And I woke up. My face was wet with tears and I was still weeping. Thank you, Lord, for this dream. (This is a great promise for Linda and others that the Lord is doing wondrous hidden things that we can't see or imagine in our lives. Many times, we just see the old barn from the outside and the holes in the floor. Keep on believing for the finished work of the hidden man of the heart and don't worry about what the natural man looks like. (1Pe.3:3) Whose [adorning] let it not be the outward adorning of braiding the hair, and of wearing jewels of gold, or of putting on apparel; (4) but [let it be] the hidden man of the heart, in the incorruptible [apparel] of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. (1Co.4:5) Wherefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make manifest the counsels of the hearts; and then shall each man have his praise from God. And Php 1:6 being confident of this very thing, that he who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ:) Walk by faith and not by sight. The farmer doesn't dig up the plant every few days to make sure there is progress. The woman doesn't get an ultrasound every day to see if the fruit is still in the womb. Like the plant, the baby Jesus must mature in the unseen parts of us before He is manifested before men. (Mar 4:26-29) And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed upon the earth; (27) and should sleep and rise night and day, and the seed should spring up and grow, he knoweth not how. (28) The earth beareth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. (29) But when the fruit is ripe, straightway he putteth forth the sickle, because the harvest is come. (Jas.1:22) But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deluding your own selves. (23) For if any one is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a mirror: (24) for he beholdeth himself, and goeth away, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. ... (2Co.3:18) But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord the Spirit.   Barn of Our Life Charles Smith (Linda's brother) - 07/06/2012 (David's notes in red) In the dream, I was suddenly standing in a wooded area, on a narrow, smooth dirt road about 8-10 feet wide. (Our wilderness walk.) Straight before me was a much smaller dirt road about 4-5 feet wide, going through some woods. (The narrow road gets ever narrower to constrict us into the walk of Jesus.) The road was level and smooth, side to side, as it gradually went up to a small hill. As I walked up the narrow road, I saw through the trees a large structure or building. As I followed the narrow road around the trees, I saw that the building was a very old barn. (Like Linda's barn.) The way the barn was built, that is, its structure, was different from any barn I had seen before. I was looking at the left end and the back side of the barn. Walking around the left side of the barn, I was then facing the front side of the barn. I saw a large door opening, about 10 feet wide, with double doors opened to the outside. The barn was built with very large timbers and heavy beams. (Like Linda's barn, in which Jesus was the beams.) The outer walls were of wide planks, each plank being about 18 inches wide, standing upright. Suddenly, I thought, I hope no one is here; they may not want me looking around. Then, as I began looking at the surroundings, I saw tall, huge trees, some about six feet in circumference, and more than 120-150 feet tall. Not seeing anything like this before, I stopped and asked myself, Where am I? I realized that this place was somewhere else; it was very different. It was so tranquil, so very quiet, no distractions, no noise of any kind, except for an occasional songbird singing in the distance. No planes overhead, nothing -- totally quiet. I found myself being filled with great and total peace, total rest, and a sense of being totally safe here. Every fiber of my being (spirit, soul, body) was at peace and rest, something I had once experienced when I was “born again”. I thought to myself, I must tell Linda and we will come here and live. While looking at the barn and its surroundings, wondering who might live here, my head slowly turned to my left, and I saw a very old, fairly large two-story house a short way from the barn, maybe 150 feet away. The old house was very beautiful with its grounds, its huge, tall trees, and dark green tall grass about four inches tall. It was immaculate, very well kept. There was clearly a lot of thought and detail put into the architecture of this house. I had seen older homes somewhat similar to those from the Civil War years, but, friend, nothing I had ever seen could compare to this house. It was very different. Looking toward the front of the house, I saw that the house was built with wood lapboard about six inches wide running from side to side. The house also had a 12-pitch roof and a small front porch about 6x6 feet, with two steps coming off the porch down to a narrow dirt walkway or path that was maybe 12-14 inches wide. The walkway leaving the porch and crossing the yard in a straight path ended at the narrow road or driveway out front. Matthew 7:14 came to me: “Because narrow the gate, and straitened the way (like a walkway) that leadeth unto the life, and few are they that find it”. Also Luke 3:4-6: “A voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight,... and the rough ways smooth; and all flesh shall see the salvation of God”. Read Isaiah 40:3-5, verse 5: “and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it”. Also, the narrow path was not only straight, but it was like the narrow road was smooth. There is something else I would like to share about this house that stood out to me. It was the windows. The windows on this fairly large house were really narrow, about two feet wide by five or six feet tall. (To let out heat but let in light.) As I stood studying this house and its surroundings (I was still standing on the narrow road in front of the house), I saw a man coming from the barn, leading a horse. The man passed by in front of me, leading the horse down the narrow road. (The spiritual man leading the harnessed beast of flesh out of the barn of our life and down the narrow road of truth and righteousness.) I was waiting for the man to speak, but he did not; he just kept his eyes straight ahead and went on. I was standing there watching when my attention was drawn back to the house. The house was now the center of attention. From the house, I saw a young woman, perhaps mid-20s in age, coming off the front porch and down the dirt path walkway to the road where I was standing. She walked to my right and went on. What seemed to be about two minutes later, there came two young boys, maybe 11 or 12 years old, walking together on this narrow road. They walked past and in front of me and kept walking. No greeting or anything. I followed the boys with my eyes as they walked past me down the road. Two things caught my eye: 1) The boys each wore long-sleeve shirts with pants rolled up below the knees and were barefoot; 2) the boy on the far side, the right side of the road, had a small stick or pole about four feet long on his right shoulder with a pail hanging at the end of the pole or stick. I thought, Where are they going, this man leading the horse, the young woman, and the two boys; where have they gone? While standing in the same place, on the narrow road, for what seemed to be maybe two or three minutes, my attention again was drawn to the house. This time, I saw a young woman, young yet older than the first woman. She looked about mid-30s in age. Both women wore long dresses with long sleeves from the neck down to about two inches from the toes of their shoes. She came out of the house, stepped off the porch, and came down the small path to the narrow road where I was standing. She walked up to me, smiling and with a glow on her face, and nodding her head. She communicated with me, but not with her mouth. In fact, her mouth never moved, yet she spoke to me. We communicated! I asked the woman, “This house and barn, they are so old. Were they built during the time of the Civil War?” I asked her this because the house and barn were indeed very old but very beautiful. They had to have been around for a while. I had never seen structures like this before. So I told her they looked in some way as if they had come from this time period. The woman smiled and answered, “Oh, no. This house and barn were long before the Civil War”. I told the woman, “I have never seen buildings like these buildings; I have never seen a place like this place, full of beauty, so peaceful and at rest”. She just smiled. I asked the woman how much ground or land went with the house. Turning from me, the woman took me down the little, narrow road that we were standing on, in front of the house. She took me a good way, what seemed like a mile or more, in a second of time. From here we could see a great distance. She showed me a very large parcel of land. Some parts of the land had large fields or woods or a little of both, but all were beautiful. Then she pointed to another parcel of land. There were many acres before me. The woman said, “See that parcel of ground?” I answered, “Yes, I do”. She said at the time of the Civil War, all this land was lost; it was sold. She said the other owner of the land plowed this field, sowed his seed and brought forth their own crops. (As Jesus said the devil did in Matthew 13.) She said, “This part of the inheritance was sold (Esau sold his birthright by walking after the flesh), but this land, this possession, shall be redeemed and returned shortly”. (The latter rain will bring the renewal.) It will be brought back; it will again become part of the inheritance of this house. I asked the woman, “Did the Civil War, this rebellion, cause much bloodshed and even death here?” The woman answered, “Yes, to many”. (Unforgiveness, rebellion, hatred, anger, fighting, sells our birthright, our inheritance, our land. Also, there is a civil war in our day being spoken of: (Gal.5:17) For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are contrary the one to the other; that ye may not do the things that ye would. Many have lost ground in this civil war because of giving ground to the lusts of the flesh. Jesus redeemed all that was lost, and Joel said it would all be restored in the end.)   The Hidden Riches of Christ, the Word Matthew Stewart - 1/2/19 (David's notes in Red) In my dream, there was a dirt path leading to and around a barn. (A barn is a place for the farmers' creatures to abide. Abiding in the Word is provision for all things.) The barn was weathered-looking and old. There was a story about this barn, that there was lots of gold hidden in it somewhere, and lots of people had looked for it but couldn't find it. (Many are not patient or diligent enough to find the massive gold stashed in God's Word.) So, I went to find the treasure in the barn. I went to the front door and opened it, and right there in front of the door on the inside was a spot where you could tell that previous people had dug, looking for the treasure. So I started to dig there, too, but then noticed some people coming down the path, so I just hid the shovel and acted like I wasn't digging, because I knew this was a big tourist attraction. After they passed, I started digging again, and then some more people were coming, so I hid the shovel and again acted like I wasn't digging, but just looking around. Then they came, took a look inside, and continued on down the path. (Where the multitudes walk, you will not find the gold.) After they left, I continued digging. I was getting pretty deep when I noticed some more people were coming. Then I realized that this hole was really noticeable and that someone could fall in and hurt themselves, and I didn't want people to claim the treasure, either, so I filled in the hole. Then I went around back, and Anna was there. There was a ladder going up to the second story, so I climbed up, but Anna stayed down below. I got to the second story, and there were toolboxes full of old tools, axes, and saws lying around. (Our tools for building the house are the Word of God, which so many neglect.) As I was looking through the toolboxes, I heard a brother talking to Anna, and he said, “My grandparents left this place with a billion dollars, but they left a million dollars' worth of gold behind.” (Our forefathers found much gold in God's Word but there is much that is sealed up for us to find in these days. Gold represents the value of the nature of God given through the Word. (Col.2:3) in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge hidden. (Mat.13:44) The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in the field; which a man found, and hid; and in his joy he goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. (Luk.16:11) If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? (Rom.11:33) O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past tracing out! (1Co.2:7) but we speak God's wisdom in a mystery, even the wisdom that hath been hidden, which God foreordained before the worlds unto our glory: (Php.4:19) And my God shall supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (2Ti.2:20) Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some unto honor, and some unto dishonor. 21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, meet for the master's use, prepared unto every good work.  (1Pe.1:7) that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold that perisheth though it is proved by fire, may be found unto praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ: (Rev.3:18) I counsel thee to buy of me gold  (by giving up your old life and time) refined by fire, that thou mayest become rich; and white garments, that thou mayest clothe thyself, and that the shame of thy nakedness be not made manifest; and eyesalve to anoint thine eyes, that thou mayest see.) The end of the dream.   We Can Enter The Inner Court Sandy Shaw, 12/28/18 (David's notes in red) This dream starts with me having my head down, and light curtains were moving with the breeze. All of a sudden, the Lord takes my hand. I walk with Him into the inner court. We bowed down and we were praying. He said, “Tell them when they pray, do not come short of entering My court.” We prayed a little more, and I opened my eyes. (The outer court is where the flesh is sacrificed. The inner court is the holy place where the incense representing prayer is offered. Then, behind the veil is the Holy of Holies, where the Ark of God's presence is. Jesus' sacrifice rent the veil, which represents His flesh, so we could be in God's presence through faith and prayer.) I was standing (She had lost a leg) in a meadow, and I heard Curt say, “Hi Sandy!” (I knew it was Curt and I could see through him) (He had passed on so he was spiritual.). I said, “Curt, how am I standing?” He said, “Because you're standing on the Word of God. Look over there!” And I saw my leg. Curt said, “There's your leg! Just a little while longer. Keep enduring in your fight. You are strong in Him.” The Lord said, “Tell David, he already knows!” (If the Lord is speaking of the time of revival and miracles, I believe it will come after Joel's northern Army is defeated by God, which we are seeing as the DS falls, and the Earthquakes come and the Holy Spirit is poured out in Joel 2. However, the satanists, who all later died, were casting witchcraft at her and her husband was an unbeliever who killed her with remdesivir and respirator like so many others died in the Covid scam.) He said, “Tell Michael Hare, he's on the right track. But he needs to wait for the Lord and let Him hold his hand.” (Hold my hand, too, Lord!) “Tell Brandy not to fret. For the Lord has heard him and everything he's prayed for will come to pass.” “Tell them all, very soon things will come to pass. And if what they pray for is good for them and lines up with the word, they shall have it.” End of dream. I asked for a word by faith at random and got: (2.Cor.4:11) For we who live are always delivered unto death for Jesus' sake (Sacrifice of the flesh happens in the outer court. Then we enter the inner court where the altar of incense [prayer] is given before the veil, which is now opened by the sacrifice of Jesus. Here we can receive all grace to walk in His steps.), that the life also of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh. (Act.15:7) And when there had been much questioning, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Brethren, ye know that a good while ago God made choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. (8) And God, who knoweth the heart, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Spirit, even as He did unto us.   John the Baptist Ministries Kendall Remmick - 02/07/2010 (David's notes in red) About three weeks ago, the Lord sent me a short dream. I figured that I shouldn't take any dreams from the Lord lightly and that I should share it. I was walking down an old, familiar street with a friend whom I never did see in the dream. I knew the person standing next to me was a friend, but I did not know who. This street is the one I used to walk home on every day from school when I was in first and second grade. (A revelation of the path of immaturity.) My friend and I walked by one house that had some low evergreen bushes in front of it, about two feet high. There was a woman sitting on a chair in the midst of the bushes. She was pregnant and had her hands on either side of her stomach, in anticipation of giving birth. In appearance, she was actually a silhouette of a woman, yet still three-dimensional. Inside the silhouette was black darkness like deep space, with no stars (outer darkness). Staring at her was like looking through a portal into darkness. (The apostate, immature church in whom is the absence of God's light.) As we walked past her, either my friend or I said, “She is about to give birth to Twins”. (The twins represent the end-time Jacobs and Esaus born to the immature church. Jacob is the father of the 12 patriarchs, like Jesus was the father of the patriarch-apostles to the end-time Church. Esau represents those who have sold their birthright. These two types will be separated at birth, and Esau will persecute Jacob the man-child.) At this point, we looked away and continued to walk forward a few steps. I then stopped and noticed I had a very small lawnmower in my right hand. The woman who was in the small hedge was behind us now, and the yard had gotten very big. The grass needed to be mowed, but it wasn't green; it was a golden, yellow-brown-like wheat, and I realized we were there to mow the lawn. (Peter said, “flesh is as grass”. The time of harvesting or cutting down the flesh of the church in repentance to prepare for the coming of the man-child ministry.) I looked down at the little lawnmower in my hand. The top side of it looked like a regular lawnmower, but the bottom side, where the blades were, looked like a house fan with a safety screen on it. (A corporate John the Baptist ministry will breathe out the winds of the Spirit to cut down the flesh of the apostate church before the birth of the man-child ministry.) I began to laugh and said, “I can't mow this lawn with this little thing! This lawn is huge!” (Meaning the flesh is abundant in the worldwide church.) My friend said, “Well, set it down on the grass and let's see how it does”. So we sat it down on the grass. (These ministries will be tested before the anointing.) Surprisingly, it cut well, but we realized that the lawnmower was too small, so we agreed we needed to go home and get a bigger lawnmower. Then I woke up. (When the anointing comes on the worldwide John the Baptist ministries from “home”, or heaven, the people will be prepared for the coming Man-child ministries. (Mat.11:10) This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, Who shall prepare thy way before thee.) When I was writing this, this verse came to me: (Amo.7:2) And it came to pass, that when they had made an end of eating the grass (the beast will devour the grass, or flesh, of God's people, as Nebuchadnezzar did for seven years.) of the land, then I said, O Lord GOD, forgive, I beseech thee: by whom shall Jacob arise? for he is small (immature). The lawnmower is the ministry before the latter rain. (John the Baptist ministries will baptize for the death of the flesh before the Man-child brings the latter rain.) The dry grass is the saints who will die to their flesh, unlike the wild grapes, as a type of the sinners filled with the world. John the Baptist came in the anointing of Elijah and is also coming again in our time to fulfill this revelation: (Mat.17:10) And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elijah must first come? (11) And he answered and said, Elijah indeed cometh, and shall restore all things: (meaning everything the Church has lost)(12) but I say unto you, that Elijah is come already, and they knew him not, but did unto him whatsoever they would. Even so shall the Son of man also suffer of them. (13) Then understood the disciples that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.   Apostates Will Bear Fruit G. C. - 11/26/2010 (David's notes in red) David and I had met a woman who was in charge of some property. The property that she oversaw was a place in the country that had become famous for sightings of Mary. She took us to the property and we pulled up to a gate and guard shack at the entrance; there was a man inside taking admission fees. (Those caught up in the false and empty religion of Babel, paying their tithes in a vain effort to see a glimpse of one who brought forth the fruit of Jesus.) As we entered the property, it was more developed than what I could see from the road: there were a few buildings on the lot and roads. There were a lot of people with campers alongside the road, inside the compound. Many others were in their cars. All of these people were desperately waiting to see an appearance of the Virgin Mary. Most of the crowd was older and tired-looking. I looked at some of the people's faces, and they looked desperate and lost, trying vainly to see this supernatural sight that I knew would never happen again. (The mother of all harlot “Christian” religions, among whom are some desperate to see fruit. Multitudes are in Maryolotry.) (I believe David wanted the land or to use the land. He wasn't interested in what the land was currently being used for; he had other plans for it.) (That we could sow the seed of God in the land, or the life of the people, so it would bear the fruit of Jesus and not fake religion. (Heb.6:7) For the land which hath drunk the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them for whose sake it is also tilled, receiveth blessing from God: (8) but if it beareth thorns and thistles, it is rejected and nigh unto a curse; whose end is to be burned. (9) But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.) The overseer/woman seemed like a Christian who was excited about the Lord, but she was off in a lot of areas. (There are so many among them who desperately need to be a part of the real virgin birth. They must be virgins in that they refuse the seed of man to receive the seed of God's Word and bring forth Jesus in their lives. Jesus said that he who does the will of the Father is my mother.) David noticed this in her and was kind to her. I remember David wanting to make some kind of deal with her, not sure what it was about, but he treated her as a sister, and we all prayed together. (Ignorance is not a sin in the New Testament, and these brothers and sisters need to be treated with respect. (Jas.4:17) To him therefore that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.) He wanted to show the land to his wife and kids and asked the lady if she would waive the admission fees for them to come and see it. He called the admission fees “tithes”, which caught me off guard, but she agreed to waive the fees. (The true children of the corporate mother church do not have to pay to bear fruit or see those who have.) After praying, we left. I had the feeling that David was not done with this lady or her property. (God will give us the fruit of the apostates' land. PTL! Many will come out from among them to serve the King and His Word.) I remember David or someone else in our group who traveled with us made the comment that the property was owned by the government -- the United States Air Force -- to be exact. He told us they had certain restrictions concerning what could be done there. He said there were two things that we would have trouble doing there because of the rules. (The 501(c)3 churches are under the authority of “the powers of the air” force through the beast government in what they teach and do. (Eph.2:2) wherein ye once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the powers of the air, of the spirit that now worketh in the sons of disobedience; (3) among whom we also all once lived in the lust of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.) This is a great promise to open doors to the apostate church for the real Gospel to bear the fruit of Jesus. Let's pray to that end.   Defending Yourself with the Word Bethany Mize - 07/30/2015 (David's notes in red) Last night in service, the Lord gave me a vision. In this vision, I saw myself standing in a deep valley, alone. The ground and sides of the valley were a clay-like substance, murky and cracked. As the shofar blew, the Lion of the tribe of Judah walked to the edge of the cliff and kept His gaze upon me. His eyes were so full of love. I was humbled and still in His presence. As I looked into His eyes, the tears began to roll down my face. I bowed my knees to Him. In doing so, the Word of God lay before me, and I began to devour it. Beneath the Word was rich, thick green grass, but nowhere else but where the Word of God lay. (Peter said, “All flesh is as grass.” Obeying the Word is health and life to our bodies. (Pro.4:20) My son, attend to my words; Incline thine ear unto my sayings. (21) Let them not depart from thine eyes; Keep them in the midst of thy heart. (22) For they are life unto those that find them, And health to all their flesh. When judgments are coming, we need a clear conscience and faith in His provision of protection.) (Bethany has a couple of meanings: “house of God” or “house of figs”, which have a very similar spiritual meaning: the true people of God.) As I digested the seed of the Word, small pieces of metal armor began to attach themselves to my shoulders, down my back, around my arms, until I was completely covered in armor. I knew I was in a time of preparation; it was not to be taken lightly. (Major judgments are coming and many are not prepared to escape for lack of the armor of God. We must pray for them now.) I stood to my feet, keeping my eyes on the Lion, with no words spoken, but just a knowing. He told me to wave my right arm across the ground. As I did, green grass began to grow wherever the shadow of my hand stretched above it. (With the armor of God's Word on, we have authority to protect this body.) In the natural, we began to sing in service, “Our sons and daughters shall prophecy.” As I sang this, my three-year-old daughter appeared to my left in the vision, fully armed. I was filled with joy that she rose from her knees, armed, as I was. (Children need to be taught this, too.) Then, in the last verse, we sang, “Let the rivers flow down.” In singing this, I knew it was time to stand firm. Then a large wave of moving water rushed toward us from the right. I grabbed my daughter's hand with my left hand and lifted up my right arm toward the water, like a shield. Then, as I bent my elbow back, the water went over us and crashed all around us, but never touched us. My armor (the Word of God) is what kept us in that secret place of the Most High. We were not fearful but full of boldness toward the oncoming water. It was a wonderful sight! (The Lord has had me move my hand in a sweeping motion like a knife to cut off the rain as it stopped immediately.) Later in the service, Jonathan spoke, “When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Lord will raise up a standard.” Just wanted to encourage the brethren with what the Lord used to encourage me. The seed of God that goes into us is what will preserve us. The Lord is coming, manifested by Word and the latter rain, as He said in Hosea 6:1-3. He will be manifested in His Man-child ministry at the beginning of the tribulation. The story is in Ezekiel 34, where He will cut off the evil shepherds and will come to feed His flock with His David / Man-children. The Bible says of the Lord's coming in judgment that His recompense will be before Him at least twice. I received this text yesterday: (Isa.40:10) Behold, the Lord Jehovah will come as a mighty one, and his arm will rule for him: Behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. (11) He will feed his flock like a shepherd, he will gather the lambs in his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and will gently lead those that have their young. This is seen again in (Isa.62:11) Behold, Jehovah hath proclaimed unto the end of the earth, Say ye to the daughter of Zion, Behold, thy salvation cometh; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. It appears the recompense is mentioned just below this concerning the Lord's judgment of Edom, the son of Abraham, who persecuted his brother Israel as a type of the Church. (Isa.63:1) Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in his apparel, marching in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save. (2) Wherefore art thou red in thine apparel, and thy garments like him that treadeth in the winevat? (3) I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the peoples there was no man with me: yea, I trod them in mine anger, and trampled them in my wrath; and their lifeblood is sprinkled upon my garments, and I have stained all my raiment. I want to share this revelation with you; from memory: Pam's three-year-old grandchild, Benjamin, just recently suddenly heard something and ran to the window and opened the curtains. He said, “Babbu, God is almost here”. She asked him, “Did you feel this or hear this”? He said, “Heard”. She asked, “Did someone say this to you?” “Yes”, he said, and on further questioning, it was from very big men outside. Later, he asked her, “When will God be here?” We have heard that the Lord will give a short warning to His disciples to get off the coast. This could come in dreams or in other ways. We have been sharing these warnings, so pray and get direction from Father. We have been hearing in our morning prayer time that we are to fast and pray and cry out for the elect in harm's way and those we have prayed for to know the Lord, and that we would be hidden in this time of judgment. Also, we need to pray for the spiritual Edomites that an elect will repent and return to the Lord. And for the church, which is about to go into captivity because of this judgment, whenever it comes. Some words I received at this time were: (Isa.22:12) And in that day did the Lord, Jehovah of hosts, call to weeping, and to mourning, and to baldness, and to girding with sackcloth: (13) and behold, joy and gladness, slaying oxen and killing sheep, eating flesh and drinking wine: let us eat and drink, for to-morrow we shall die. (14) And Jehovah of hosts revealed himself in mine ears, Surely this iniquity shall not be forgiven you till ye die, saith the Lord, Jehovah of hosts. Also, Matthew 9:15, “then will they fast”, was received three times. (Jer.6:26) O daughter of my people, gird thee with sackcloth, and wallow thyself in ashes: make thee mourning, as for an only son, most bitter lamentation; for the destroyer shall suddenly come upon us. (Zep.2:3) Seek ye Jehovah, all ye meek of the earth, that have kept his ordinances; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye will be hid in the day of Jehovah's anger. Several people locally got confirmations to fast and pray. So fast and pray regularly, saints, for these things and those you know who are in spiritual need until this comes.   Jesus Is Coming in Flesh Again Bill Steenland - 12/10/2014 (David's notes in red) I just listened to a brother talk about a visitation of God to His people. There is an awesome type and shadow for the coming Man-child, as Joseph the Man-child held back who he was until a dramatic revealing. I dreamed I was in a white, slightly grayish room. In the dream, I thought it was an elevator. I knew it as the elevator room. (An elevator is like abiding in Christ and the Word. It is a place of being caught up into “heavenly places in Christ Jesus”.) (Eph.1:3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ: (4) even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blemish before him in love: (5) having foreordained us unto adoption as sons through Jesus Christ unto himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. (Notice that only abiding in Christ, the Word, can we be in heavenly places in order to manifest His holiness and sonship. Whitish gray is the color of the heavens many times, if you are under the first heaven with clouds and chemtrails. The higher you go, the clearer the heavens become, which is why they put telescopes in space.) I was sitting next to a man I work with named Ben. (Benjamin was Joseph's younger brother by Rachel, but he had not yet met Joseph. Joseph, as a type of Jesus and the Man-child body, was sold by his brethren into prison but came out to rule over all. Benjamin's eyes were opened to see Joseph, who first appeared dressed as an Egyptian. At first, Joseph's brothers did not know that Joseph, as a type of Jesus, was in that Egyptian-looking body, and so it will be today. (Gen.45:1) Then Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him; and he cried, Cause every man to go out from me. And there stood no man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren. (2) And he wept aloud: and the Egyptians heard, and the house of Pharaoh heard. (3) And Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence. (4) And Joseph said unto his brethren, Come near to me, I pray you. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt. (5) And now be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.) Ben was so excited and talking about meeting Jesus! He said, “Yeah, man, one day soon, we will be talking to Jesus, just like you and me are talking right now”. He was going on and on about talking to Jesus in person. He said, “Yeah, man, it's going to be so great! Oh, my God! Face to face, man, just like me and you are talking right now. Face to face with Jesus!” (Yeah, that makes me really excited, too. Many will talk face to face with Jesus in these days, but He will look different in flesh because He is coming to be manifested in His second corporate body, like He was in the early disciples when they were called Christians. (Luk.10:16) He that heareth you heareth me; and he that rejecteth you rejecteth me; and he that rejecteth me rejecteth him that sent me. (Mat.10:40) He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. (Luk.9:48) and said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this little child in my name receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same is great. (Joh.13:20) Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me. We see in the last verse a perfect example that those who saw Jesus saw the Father Who was manifested in Him. The Father had taken on a body, just as Jesus is doing. (Joh.14:9) Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and dost thou not know me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; how sayest thou, Show us the Father? The latter rain will empower many to manifest Jesus in their life.) Ben is not saved, as far as I know, and has even mocked me a little bit when a Christian brother and I were talking about the Lord. But Ben is a very funny guy and jokes about everything. So in the dream, I thought to myself, “Um ... Ben, maybe we should deal with some stuff first”. I was thinking along the lines of basic repentance. End of dream. (Yes, the John the Baptist ministry of repentance is first to prepare the lost to see Jesus in the Man-child and then the body. The lost will see Jesus before many Christians will.) The Lord encouraged me and reminded me of the dream last night as I was reading the final chapters of the Gospel of Luke. He put these scriptures of the chapter on my heart about the dream. I underlined the scriptures that specifically talk about His appearance to the disciples. (Luk.24:15) And it came to pass, while they communed and questioned together, that Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. (16) But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. Why were their eyes not able to see that He was Jesus? Could it be because He looked different, like He will in these days as He walks in His body, those in whom He is glorified through His Spirit and Word? (2Th.1:10) when he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be marvelled at in all them that believed (because our testimony unto you was believed) in that day. As you can see, if we do not believe and walk in the Word, Jesus will not be manifested in us. (11) To which end we also pray always for you, that our God may count you worthy of your calling, and fulfil every desire of goodness and every work of faith, with power; (12) that the name (Greek meaning “nature, character and authority) of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.) (17) And he said unto them, What communications are these that ye have one with another, as ye walk? And they stood still, looking sad. (18) And one of them, named Cleopas, answering said unto him, Dost thou alone sojourn in Jerusalem and not know the things which are come to pass there in these days? (19) And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, The things concerning Jesus the Nazarene, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: (20) and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. Because they knew Him not, they thought Him to be a son of Joseph, instead of the Son of God. The same mistake will be made by the apostates today. (21) But we hoped that it was he who should redeem Israel. Yea and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things came to pass. (22) Moreover certain women of our company amazed us, having been early at the tomb; (23) and when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. (24) And certain of them that were with us went to the tomb, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not. (25) And he said unto them, O foolish men, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! (26) Behooved it not the Christ to suffer these things, and to enter into his glory? (“Christ in you the hope of Glory”) (27) And beginning from Moses and from all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. (28) And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they were going: and he made as though he would go further. (29) And they constrained him, saying, Abide with us; for it is toward evening, and the day is now far spent. And he went in to abide with them. (30) And it came to pass, when he had sat down with them to meat, he took the bread and blessed; and breaking it he gave to them. (31) And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. He became known to them in the breaking of the Bread of Life, the Word. The One in whom the Word dwells is His body. (32) And they said one to another, Was not our heart burning within us, while he spake to us in the way, while he opened to us the scriptures? (33) And they rose up that very hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, (34) saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon. (35) And they rehearsed the things that happened in the way, and how he was known of them in the breaking of the bread. So it is today, we will know those in whom Jesus lives by becoming familiar with the Word that is an expression of Himself. He is the Word made flesh, and so should we be. (36) And as they spake these things, he himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. (37) But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they beheld a spirit. (38) And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and wherefore do questionings arise in your heart? (39) See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye behold me having. (40) And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. His body will have the same signs of crucifixion in the hands, meaning works, and the feet, meaning walk. (41) And while they still disbelieved for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here anything to eat? (42) And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish. (43) And he took it, and ate before them. (44) And he said unto them, These are my words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must needs be fulfilled, which are written in the law of Moses, and the prophets, and the psalms, concerning me. (45) Then opened he their mind, that they might understand the scriptures; (46) and he said unto them, Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer, and rise again from the dead the third day; We are once again at the third day when Jesus will first be manifested in the Man-child who is going through crucifixion at the hands of His own brethren, just like Joseph and Jesus did. Then this will happen to the whole body of true Christians. (47) and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name unto all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. For this to happen, a much larger corporate body is needed -- Jesus in His Saints. It will begin at born-again Jerusalem because that is the Bride led by the Man-child. (48) Ye are witnesses of these things. (49) And behold, I send forth the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city, until ye be clothed with power from on high. (50) And he led them out until they were over against Bethany: and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. (51) And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he parted from them, and was carried up into heaven. (52) And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: (53) and were continually in the temple, blessing God. This teaching of Jesus coming manifested in You can be found with much scripture in our book, Hidden Manna For the End Times. There, we can also see that Jesus is coming for His saints after this. Bill goes on with (2Co.5:16) Wherefore we henceforth know no man after the flesh: even though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now we know him so no more. Very interesting parable about not knowing Christ by His flesh and by sight. Jesus was ministering the Word of God or spiritual food to them, as in verse 32, where their heart was burning as He opened the scriptures to them. We know that the love of God was being shed abroad in their hearts by the Holy Spirit before He vanished away. (The Holy Spirit's job is to manifest Jesus in us.) Making a point that the Spirit is the truth (John16:13) and reveals “all truth” (Who is Jesus). (2Co.3:17) Now the Lord is the Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (18) But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord the Spirit. (This is the real Gospel, that Jesus lives in you by faith, and the Spirit will manifest this because of your faith.) (Joh.6:51) I am the living bread (the Word) which came down out of heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: yea and the bread which I will give is my flesh (the Word made flesh), for the life of the world. (52) The Jews therefore strove one with another, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? (53) Jesus therefore said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, ye have not life in yourselves. (54) He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood hath eternal life: and I will raise him up at the last day. (55) For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. (56) He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood abideth in me, and I in him. (Heb.5:13) For every one that partaketh of milk is without experience of the word of righteousness; for he is a babe. (14) But solid food is for fullgrown men, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil.  

-- Opening song - "Let There Be Love" by Noah Aronson; performed by Temple Israel Cantorial Soloist Happie Hoffman Find sermons, music, conversations between clergy and special guests, and select Temple Israel University (TIU) classes – easily accessible to you through our podcast, Torah to the People. Learn more about Temple Israel-Memphis at timemphis.org.

Universal Salvation, part 4 Welcome back to Gnostic Insights. I'm going to do my best to wrap up this review of David Bentley Hart's book, That All Shall Be Saved, Heaven, Hell, and Universal Salvation. And I hope you understand, particularly those of you who are Christians that are listening to this, that I do all of this in the name of the Father. It's not to tear down Christianity. It's to uphold the mission of the Messiah, which has been lost over the past several hundred years of Christianity. And so this talk of universal salvation is a necessary component of believing in the glory of God. Because universal salvation of all souls, not only all humans, but the dogs, the cats, the birds, the grasses, all living things, have to return to the Father, or else the Anointed loses power. The Father loses parts of himself. Okay, let's get back to David Bentley Hart. So we're going to run through these four meditations that are the body of his book. The first meditation is, Who is God? He says, The New Testament, to a great degree, consists in the eschatological interpretation of Hebrew Scripture's story of creation, finding in Christ as eternal Logos and risen Lord, the unifying term of beginning and end. There's no more magnificent meditation on this vision than Gregory of Nyssa's description of the progress of all persons towards union with God in the one pleroma, the one fullness of the whole Christ. All spiritual wills moving, to use this loving image, from outside the temple walls to the temple precincts, and finally beyond the ages into the very sanctuary of the glory as one. Okay, let me jump in here to say, do you notice that the New Testament words, when you use the correct translations, are the same as the translations in our Tripartite Tractate of the Nag Hammadi? Logos is the eternal spirit of humanity and the risen Lord. The Fullness is the one pleroma, the whole Christ. And in this statement, it's saying that all that is spiritual, which includes the spirits that reside within each of us, will all move as one into the pleroma of the Christ. That's who Christ is to us. He's the head of our pleroma. And when I speak of pleromas, I always picture that pyramidal shape, that hierarchical shape, and the capstone is the head. We 2nd order powers are children of the 1st order powers. The 3rd order powers are the Army of Christ that have come to redeem us. When Paul spoke of this, he was applying it literally to the temple in Jerusalem, where there were the walls of the temple, and most of the people were outside of the walls, and some of the people were in the temple precincts. And finally, the very sanctuary of the glory, where only the priests were allowed. These are the three parts that were mentioned, and these are archetypal of the movement of humanity, Hart is saying, from the outside of the pleroma of the Christ, into the pleroma of the Christ, and then into the very glory of God through the Christ. On page 90, Hart says, If one truly believes that traditional Christian language about God's goodness and the theological grammar to which it belongs are not empty, then the God of eternal retribution and pure sovereignty proclaimed by so much of Christian tradition is not and cannot possibly be the God of self-outpouring love revealed in Christ. If God is the good creator of all, he must also be the savior of all without fail, who brings to himself all he has made, including all rational wills, and only thus returns to himself in all that goes forth from him. And that's the end of the chapter, Who is God? And that pretty much states my basic belief on why everyone is going to heaven, because we all come from the Father, and therefore we all must return to the Father because the Father cannot be diminished in any way. And if he lost us, he'd be diminished. Do you see? The second meditation is, What is Judgment? And the subtitle is A Reflection on Biblical Eschatology. And eschatology, that's one of those big theological words that just means the end times, the end of time. On page 93, Hart says, There's a general sense among most Christians that the notion of an eternal hell is explicitly and unremittingly advanced in the New Testament. And yet, when we go looking for it in the actual pages of the text, it proves remarkably elusive. The whole idea is, for instance, entirely absent from the Pauline corpus as even the thinnest shadow of a hint, nor is it anywhere patently present in any of the other epistolary texts. There is one verse in the Gospels, Matthew 25-46 that, traditionally understood, offers what seems the strongest evidence for the idea, but then now Hart's going to explain how that can't be true. And then he says there are also perhaps a couple of verses from Revelation, and he says nothing's clear in Revelation, so he's not going to go there. But, What in fact the New Testament provides us with are a number of fragmentary and fantastic images that can be taken in any number of ways, arranged according to our prejudices and expectations, and declared literal or figural or hyperbolic as our desires dictate. It's why people can make the case for eternal damnation, but you can also make the case for not eternal damnation, because it's so metaphorical. On page 94, Hart says, Nowhere is there any description of a kingdom of perpetual cruelty presided over by Satan, as though he were some kind of Chthonian god. On the other hand, however, there are a remarkable number of passages in the New Testament, several of them from Paul's writings, that appear instead to promise a final salvation of all persons and all things, and in the most unqualified terms. How did some images become mere images in the general Christian imagination, while others became exact documentary portraits of some final reality? If one can be swayed simply by the brute force of arithmetic, it seems worth noting that, among the apparently most explicit statements on the last things, the universalist statements are by far the more numerous. And then he lists a number of verses from the New Testament that speak of universal salvation, over 20 of them at least, and I'll give you just a couple. Romans 5.18 says, So then, just as through one transgression came condemnation for all human beings, so also through one act of righteousness came a rectification of life for all human beings. And jumping in from the Gnostic sense, he doesn't say the fall of one human, he doesn't say through Adam, he says one transgression—and we would call that one transgression the Fall of Logos, the fall of the Aeon, which is a higher order being than we are. Or Corinthians 15.22 says, For just as in Adam all die, so also in the anointed Christ all will be given life. I would say where it says for just as in Adam all die, it's not because Adam ate the apple, it's that we humans who are outside of the Christ, we're outside of the walls of the temple, we are in the pleroma of Adam—we are in the pleroma of human beings. When you accept the anointed, then you move into the pleroma, or you nest up higher into the pleroma of the Christ. That would be the Gnostic way of saying that. Second Corinthians 5.14 says, For the love of the anointed constrains us, having reached this judgment, that one died on behalf of all, all then have died. And of course that one is the Anointed, and He died on behalf of everyone. Or even Romans 11:32, For God shut up everyone in obstinacy, so that he might show mercy to everyone. And there's a long discussion in the chapter about how God's chosen—the original elect, that being the Hebrew nation—has been obstinate about accepting Jesus of Nazareth as the Anointed. And so he's saying that everyone is shut up in obstinacy, that's the Hebrews, so that he might show mercy to everyone. And that is, they're temporarily set up in obstinacy so that the message of the Anointed can be preached far and wide, before death and after death, we Gnostics would say, and not be just constrained to only the Hebrews. That's why the Hebrews are set aside for the moment, so that those outside the temple walls can also come to Christ. And then there are 19 more verses after this, and he lists them all between pages 96 and page 102. And if you are a theological scholar or a concerned Christian that wants to know if this is heresy or not, I really suggest you buy the book, That All Shall Be Saved, by David Bentley Hart, and read it carefully from cover to cover. Jumping to page 116, Hart says, There are those metaphors used by Jesus that seem to imply that the punishment of the world to come will be of only limited duration. For example, “if remanded to prison, you shall most certainly not emerge until you pay the very last pittance.” Or, “the unmerciful slave is delivered to the torturers until he should repay everything he owes.” And Hart says it seems as if this until should be taken with some seriousness. Some wicked slaves, moreover, “will be beaten with many blows, while others will be beaten with few blows.” Hart says, of course, everyone will be “salted with fire.” This fire is explicitly that of the Gehenna. But salting here is an image of purification and preservation, for salt is good. Gehenna is the Valley of Hinnom from the Old Testament, and that is where, outside of the city of Jerusalem, the refuse was burned, and even carrion and bodies were burned. And that is why it is considered to be a hellish place. And it has become a metaphor in the time of Jesus for the purging fire, the Aeonian chastening for the good. Hart says we might even find some support for the purgatorial view of the Gehenna from the Greek of Matthew 25:46, which is the supposedly conclusive verse on the side of the Infernalist Orthodoxy, where the word used for the punishment of the last day is kolasis, which most properly refers to remedial chastisement, rather than timoria, which more properly refers to retributive justice. So, the fire of the judgment. What is judgment? The fire is the chastening fire, the fire of personal guilt and remorse over the sins one has done, that causes one to repent and turn to redemption. Hart says, It is not clear in any event that the fourth gospel, [and the fourth gospel, that's the gospel of John, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John], it is not clear in any event that the fourth gospel foretells any “last judgment,” in the sense of a real additional judgment that accomplishes more than has already happened in Christ. To see His words as pointing toward and fulfilled within his own crucifixion and resurrection, wherein all things were judged and all things redeemed. The kingdom has indeed drawn very near, and even now is being revealed. The hour indeed has come. The judge who is judged in our place is also the resurrection and the life that has always already succeeded and exceeded the time of condemnation. All of heaven and of hell meet in those three days. . . Hell appears in the shadow of the cross as what has always already been conquered, as what Easter leaves in ruins, to which we may flee from the transfiguring light of God if we so wish, but where we can never finally come to rest, for being only a shadow, it provides nothing to cling to. And he attributes that concept of hell being only a shadow to Gregory of Nyssa, although we would attribute it to the Tripartite Tractate of the Nag Hammadi which came before Gregory of Nyssa. Hell exists so long as it exists only as the last terrible residue of a fallen creation's enmity to God, the lingering effects of a condition of slavery that God has conquered universally in Christ and will ultimately conquer individually in every soul. This age has passed away already, however long it lingers on its own aftermath, and thus in the Age to Come, [and that's capital A, Age, which we would interpret as the Aeons to Come, the Aeonian Pleroma to Come], and beyond all ages, all shall come to the kingdom prepared for them from before the foundation of the world. And that's the chapter, What is Judgment? The third meditation or chapter of Hart is called What is a Person? A Reflection on the Divine Image. It says over and over in the Bible that we are made in the image of God. Man is made in the image of God. That is the divine image. On page 131, Hart says, Christians down the centuries have excelled at converting the good tidings of God's love in Christ into something dreadful, irrational, and morally horrid. [And we covered that in depth in the previous three episodes, if you want to go back there.] On page 132, Hart says, I suspect that no figure in Christian history has suffered a greater injustice as a result of the desperate inventiveness of the Christian moral imagination than the Apostle Paul, since it was the violent misprision of his theology of grace, starting with the great Augustine, it grieves me to say, that gave rise to almost all of these grim distortions of the Gospel. Aboriginal guilt, predestination, (ante praevisa merita), the eternal damnation of unbaptized infants, the real existence of vessels of wrath, and so on. All of these odious and incoherent dogmatic motifs, so to speak, and others equally nasty, have been ascribed to Paul. And yet, each and every one of them, not only is incompatible with the guiding themes of Paul's proclamation of Christ's triumph and of God's purpose in election, but is something like their perfect inversion. Well, isn't that interesting? Because we already know that the archons represent the inversions of the Aeons of the Pleroma. And so, although Hart doesn't realize he's implying this, to say that what has come down to us in Christian tradition through Augustine is the perfect inversion of what Paul was actually saying about universal salvation, which means, by definition, that it's the demiurgic or the archonic version of salvation. Isn't that interesting? I mean, that is what I have been implying, that what has been taken to be Christian tradition for the last couple of thousand years is actually a diminishment of the power of Christ and the power and love of the Father. By saying that people can be lost and condemned to eternal torture, that is sacrilegious to me. That is the heresy. And that is what Hart is saying here. He goes on to say on page 133, This is all fairly odd, really. Paul's argument in those chapters is not difficult to follow. What preoccupies him from beginning to end is the agonizing mystery that the Messiah of Israel has come, and yet so few of the children of the house of Israel have accepted the fact, even while so many from outside the covenant have. And Paul wonders, how is the promised Messiah rejected by so many, yet so many outside the temple walls have accepted the Messiah? There are far more Christians than there are Jews at the moment. Why is that? Paul was wondering. Hart says, Paul's is not an abstract question regarding which individual human beings are the saved and which are the damned. In fact, by the end of the argument, the former category, [that is the saved], proves to be vastly larger than that of the elect or the called, while the latter category, [that is the damned], makes no appearance at all. Jumping down the page, he says, “so then what if,” so now he's going to go ahead and quote Paul here, Romans 9:19, Paul says, So then what if God should show his power by preserving vessels suitable only for wrath, keeping them solely for destruction, in order to provide an instructive counterpoint to the riches of the glory he lavishes on vessels prepared for mercy, whom he has called from among the Jews and the Gentiles alike. For as it happens, rather than offering a solution to the quandary in which he finds himself, Paul is simply restating that quandary in its bleakest possible form, at the very brink of despair. He does not stop there, however, because he knows that this cannot be the correct answer. It is so obviously preposterous, in fact, that a wholly different solution must be sought, one that makes sense and that will not require the surrender either of Paul's reason or of his confidence in God's righteousness. Hence, contrary to his own warnings, Paul does indeed continue to question God's justice, and he spends the next two chapters unambiguously rejecting the provisional answer, the vessels of wrath hypothesis, altogether, so as to reach a completely different and far more glorious conclusion—God blesses everyone. Romans 10: 11, 12. And by the way, in Gnostic gospel, we would say the law is actually the Demiurge's rules for human behavior, because our self-will makes us otherwise uncontrollable. Because to the Father above, the only law is love. When we act out of love, all else follows. Going on, Hart says, As for the believing remnant of Israel, [Romans 11:5], it turns out that they have been elected not as the limited number of the saved within Israel, but as the earnest through which all of Israel will be saved. They are waiting for the Anointed to come and take the place of the King of Israel, King of the Jews. King of the Jews is one of the titles of the Messiah. That means the capstone of their pleroma. You see? It's all of these pyramidal shapes that are first designed up there in the Fullness of God, the pleroma. What Paul is saying is that the Jews that are in the pleroma of Israel, it's their remnant that makes them holy. It's their remnant that is the spiritual part, the higher part, the called part, the elect part of the pleroma of the nation of the Hebrews. And it is through those elect that all of the Jews will be saved, ultimately. Hart says, For the time being, true, a part of Israel is hardened, but this will remain the case only until the ”full entirety” [that is the pleroma] of the Gentiles enter in. The unbelievers among the children of Israel may have been allowed to stumble, but God will never allow them to fall. Hart's just saying that Israel's reluctance or slowness to believing that Jesus is the Messiah is just slowing down the progress of history to give everyone else a chance to catch up to it. Quoting Hart again, We're in Romans now, 11:11. This then is the radiant answer dispelling the shadows of Paul's grim what if in the ninth chapter of Romans. It's clarion negative. It turns out that there is no final illustrative division between the vessels of wrath and vessels of mercy. That was a grotesque, all too human thought that can now be chased away for good. God's wisdom far surpasses ours, and his love can accomplish all that it intends. “He has bound everyone in disobedience so as to show mercy to everyone.” [That's Romans 11:32.] All are vessels of wrath precisely so that all may be made vessels of mercy. . . That Paul's great attempt to demonstrate that God's election is not some arbitrary act of predilective exclusion, but instead a providential means for bringing about the unrestricted inclusion of all persons, has been employed for centuries to advance what is quite literally the very teaching that he went to such great lengths explicitly to reject. . . Yet this is still not my principal point. I want to say something far more radical. I want to say that there is no way in which persons can be saved as persons except in and with all other persons. This may seem an exorbitant claim, but I regard it as no more than an acknowledgment of certain obvious truths about the fragility, dependency, and exigency of all that make us who and what we are. Oh, this is a very interesting portion. Okay, listen to this. Jumping to page 149. No soul is who or what it is in isolation, and no soul's sufferings can be ignored without the sufferings of a potentially limitless number of other souls being ignored as well. And so it seems if we allow the possibility that even so much as a single soul might slip away unmourned into everlasting misery, the ethos of heaven turns out to be “every soul for itself”—which is also, curiously enough, precisely the ethos of hell. But Christians are obliged, it seems clear, to take seriously the eschatological imagery of scripture. And there all talk of salvation involves the promise of a corporate beatitude, a kingdom of love and knowledge, a wedding feast, a city of the redeemed, the body of Christ, which means that the hope Christians cherish must in some way involve the preservation of whatever is deepest in and most essential to personality rather than a perfect escape from personality. But finite persons are not self-enclosed individual substances. They are dynamic events of relation to what is other than themselves. And then Hart summons up the idea of a single recurrent image, he says, That of a parent whose beloved child has grown into quite an evil person, but who remains a parent nevertheless, and therefore keeps and cherishes countless tender memories of the innocent and delightful being that has now become lost in the labyrinth of that damaged soul. Is all of that, those memories, those anxieties and delights, those feelings of desperate love, really to be consigned to the fire as just so much combustible chaff? Must it all be forgotten or willfully ignored for heaven to enter into that parent's soul? And if so, is this not the darkest tragedy ever composed? And is God not then a tragedian utterly merciless in his poetic omnipotence? Who or what is that being whose identity is no longer determined by its relation to that child? [Skipping to page 153] Personhood as such is not a condition possible for an isolated substance. It is an act, not a thing. And it is achieved only in and through a history of relations with others. We are finite beings in a state of becoming, and in us there is nothing that is not an action, dynamism, an emergence into a fuller or a retreat into a more impoverished existence. And so, as I said in my first meditation, we are those others who make us. Spiritual personality is not mere individuality, nor is personal love one of its merely accidental conditions or extrinsic circumstances. A person is first and foremost a limitless capacity, a place where the all shows itself with a special inflection. We exist as the place of the other, to borrow a phrase from Michel de Certeau. Certainly, this is the profoundest truth in the doctrine of resurrection. That we must rise from the dead to be saved is a claim not simply about resumed corporeality, whatever that might turn out to be, but more crucially, about the fully restored existence of the person as socially, communally, corporately constituted. Each person is a body within the body of humanity, which exists in its proper nature only as the body of Christ. Well, that's pretty neat. See, we are nested fractal hierarchies of the pleroma of the Fullness of God. And if you've been with me a while, you know what that long and complicated sentence means. Picture a pyramidal shape, picture every living part of your body as building up the pyramid, and your conscious self is the capstone of that pleroma that makes up your body. Now, you are then nested along with all other humans into the pleroma of humanity, the body of humanity, also called the body of Adam. Just the way our cells nest up into building us, we nest up into building the great body of humanity. And then, Hart is saying this body of humanity exists in its proper nature only as the body of Christ, because when we then nest up and make Christ the king of our pleroma, we are nested into the Fullness of Christ. And that is what the final salvation resting point is. When we all finally pass through the final judgment and nest up into Christ, then we're all nested up into the pleroma, we're all nested up into the Son. And there we are. And we will still have our lives the way the Fullness has their lives. They dream together as one of paradise. And that's where we're headed. Hart says, Our personhood must truly consist not only in the immediate love of those close at hand, but also in our disposition toward those whom we, by analogy, care for from afar. Or even in the abstract, for the most essential law of charity, of love, when it is truly active, is that it must inexorably grow beyond all immediately discernible boundaries in order to be fulfilled and to continue to be active. And all of those in whom each of us is implicated, and who are implicated in each of us, are themselves in turn implicated and intertwined in countless others, and on and on without limit. We belong of necessity to an indissoluble co-inherence of souls. And I think that down here on the physical level, on the material plane, the demiurgic version of that shared coherence of all souls together is quantum entanglement. That's the Demiurge's material version of how we are implicated and intertwined with every other soul. And now he goes on to say something that's very Gnostic. On the next page, Hart says, There may be within each of us—indeed there surely is—that divine spark, that divine light or spark of nous or spirit or atman that is the abiding presence of God in us, the place of radical sustaining divine imminence, nearer to me than my inmost parts. But that light is the one undifferentiated ground of our existence, not the particularity of our personal existence, in and with one another. Oh, hey, there it is. That's what I'm always saying. This one spark, that's what we call the big S Self. And the particularity of our personal existence is what we here at Gnostic Insights label as our Ego. So we are made up of the Self that we share with all others and that we share with the Son, but we are also our own individual existence. That's why we can't just blink out into nothingness and not be missed, because we have our particularity, and it has its own place in the hierarchy. Then Hart says, But then this is to say that either all persons must be saved or that none can be. [He says,] God could, of course, erase each of the elect as whoever they once were by shattering their memories and attachments like the gates of hell and then raise up some other being in each of their places, thus converting the will of each into an idiot bliss stripped of the loves that made him or her this person, associations and attachments and pity and tenderness and all the rest. If that were the case, only in hell could any of us possess something like a personal destiny, tormented perhaps by the memories of the loves we squandered or betrayed, but not deprived of them altogether. [Jumping to 157, he says], I am not I in myself alone, but only in all others. If then anyone is in hell, I too am partly in hell. . . For the whole substance of Christian faith is the conviction that another has already and decisively gone down into that abyss for us to set all the prisoners free, even from the chains of their own hatred and despair, and hence the love that has made all of us who we are and that will continue throughout eternity to do so, cannot ultimately be rejected by anyone. Amen. And that's the end of the third meditation. Now the fourth meditation, we just don't even have time to get to. It's called, What is Freedom? And if you want to hear the fourth meditation in depth, please text me in the comments and ask for more David Bentley Hart That All Shall Be Saved. But as for now, this treatise on what is freedom? I'll actually just jump to the last page and skip all of the explanations. The fourth meditation, What is Freedom? is all about free will. I guess I'll include it in some future episode about free will and just quote Hart extensively in that episode. But to close it out, Hart says, It would make no sense to suggest that God, who is by nature not only the source of being, but also the good and the true and the beautiful and everything else that makes spirits exist as rational beings, would truly be all in all if the consummation of all things were to eventuate merely in a kind of extrinsic divine supremacy over creation. But God is not a god, [or as we would say, the God Above All Gods is not the Demiurge, is how we would put it in Gnostic terms]. And his final victory, as described in scripture, will consist not merely in his assumption of perfect supremacy over all, but also in his ultimately being all in all. Could there then be a final state of things in which God is all in all, while yet there existed rational creatures whose inward worlds consisted in an eternal rejection of and rebellion against God as the sole and consuming and fulfilling end of the rational will's most essential nature? If this fictive and perverse interiority were to persist into eternity, would God's victory over every sphere of being really be complete? Or would that small miserable residual flicker of Promethean defiance remain forever as the one space in creation from which God has been successfully expelled? Surely it would, so it too must pass away. All right, that ends this long episode, because I was trying to wrap up the entire book, which I almost did. Write to me, tell me what you think of this sort of thing. I'd especially like to hear from people who used to be Christians, or who were raised in the church, and who fell away from the church because of some of these very problems and conundrums that we've been talking about for the last four episodes. God bless us all, and onward and upward! If you find these gnostic insights meaningful, please donate to the cause. Cyd pays for these podcasts out of her retirement money, and the well is running dry. If I am to keep this up, I need your financial assistance as well as your good company. I thank my (very few) paid subscibers from the bottom of my heart to the top of my pleroma. Please help. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Name *FirstLastEmail *Stripe Credit Card *Choose your item *Item A - $10.00Item B - $25.00Item C - $50.00Total$0.00Submit

There is a cryptic aspect of the Gospel that many of the Apostles did not understand. It is a mystery that was not revealed prior to Paul. It was difficult to understand then and it remains difficult to understand today. This enigma surrounding the Gospel has everything to do with Gentiles! We could even call it the Mystery of the Gentiles. The words of Winston Churchill might find an application here, “It's a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma…” Join us in the exciting series as we unpack what Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, calls the Mystery of the Gospel.

In this episode of Public Reading of Scripture, Amir and Mike read from 1 Samuel 9 and Acts 11. As Israel continues its transition toward monarchy, we see the early movements that will lead to Saul's rise as king. In the New Testament, Peter boldly defends the salvation of the Gentiles, affirming that God shows no partiality and that the gospel is for all who believe. Join us as we continue our series through Scripture, along with a brief update from Jerusalem.Connect with us on social:Telegram: @beholdisraelchannelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/amir.tsarfati/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beholdisrael/X: https://x.com/beholdisraelYouTube: https://youtube.com/@beholdisrael

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:Leviticus 1-3; Acts 13 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible podcast, where each day we journey together through the pages of Scripture in search of the living Word. On this February 6th, 2026 episode, Hunter invites listeners to buckle up as we begin the challenging—but rewarding—book of Leviticus, exploring chapters 1-3. The episode also features a powerful reading from Acts 13, highlighting the bold ministry of Paul and Barnabas as they bring the message of Christ to both Jews and Gentiles. Through today's passages, Hunter draws connections between the ancient sacrificial system and the fulfillment of the law in Jesus, reminding us that our hope rests not in our own piety but in the grace given to us through Christ. The episode closes with heartfelt prayers and a call to embrace God's joy as our strength, reassuring us that we are deeply loved. Plus, listeners like Kate from Sydney, Australia, share their appreciation for the grounding presence of the Daily Radio Bible each night. Join us as we navigate familiar and new territory, reflect on how Scripture shapes our lives, and together find encouragement for the journey ahead. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Wherever the Gospel is preached, it'll either be received and welcomed or rejected and resisted. For some, it'll seem familiar and old, and for others, it'll seem brand new. Paul and Barnabas were being sent out, and the message about Christ was multiplying in the hearts of many. They were preaching to Jews primarily, taking them all the way back to Abraham and Moses—back through the exile, their deliverance from Egypt, through the wilderness, the institution of the Levitical and sacrificial system, through the prophets and kings. They took them back to something old and familiar. Out of this long story of God's people emerged God's man, the Messiah—God's man and his plan—Jesus, the one who would make the world right again. God sent his Son to give his life on behalf of the whole world. In his life, lived in perfect love, he fulfilled the law of God. He demonstrated absolute purity, holiness, righteousness, and justice. And then he died on a cross as a substitute sacrifice for us so that we might live. But he didn't just die for all—he was raised to new life for all. And now everyone can be freed from the penalty of sin and shame, from death and the grave. Now every human being can begin to walk in the new life given to them in Christ. This is the message they're preaching with all their heart and soul. And many are responding with joy. But many are resisting and rejecting this message. They resist because they had put their hope in their own piety and obedience to the law and not in God. But it's not only the pious who have a hard time with this—Christians have a hard time with this, too. Christians everywhere are tempted to trust in their own piety, their own self-effort, as a way to make themselves right with God. In the end, we end up frustrated, bitter, exhausted, and discouraged. It happens all the time. But this is not the message that we have been given. The message Paul was on fire to tell was that we are made right with God not by our own efforts or piety, but by what Christ has done for us. Ours is to believe, to say yes to what God has already done, and to walk in the power, the goodness, the joy, and the abiding presence of Christ himself. Live in the light, the strength, and joy of Christ in you. Be one who receives and rests in his life, not one who resists and rejects it. That's the prayer that I have for my own soul today. That's a prayer that I have for my family, for my wife and my daughters and my son. And that's a prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

“Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” (John 13:35 NLT) Before I became a believer, one of the things that attracted me to the Christian faith was the way Christians loved each other. I was raised in the 1960s, when the hippie and drug culture was coming on strong. We wore peace symbols and used words like groovy. We talked incessantly about love and peace. But it was a sham. There was no love or peace—at least, not as we envisioned it. It didn’t take me long to recognize the hypocrisy at the heart of the counterculture. Having been raised in a broken home, I wanted love and peace, and I thought maybe the movements of the 1960s were where I needed to look. I tried to buy into their philosophies for a time, not because I was looking for a buzz or excitement, but because I was looking for meaning in life. But nothing really resonated with me until I started meeting Christians. They had the love and peace I was searching for. They would get together for Bible studies on my high school campus, and I would watch them hug each other and say, “God bless you.” I thought, “This can’t be real. They can’t really care about each other. There’s no way.” But as I kept watching them, it started bugging me. And then I thought, “What if they’re right and I’m wrong? What if the love is real and not an act? What if God really is living inside them? What if they have the truth? If that’s true, then I don’t have it, and I don’t have the answers. That means I need to hear what they have to say.” Jesus understood that need and longing for genuine love. That’s why He told His followers, “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples” (John 13:35 NLT). That love for one another doesn’t always come naturally. Nor should it. Nothing worthwhile is easy. They say politics makes strange bedfellows but so does the Christian faith. Jesus urged His followers to “go and make disciples of all the nations” (Matthew 28:19 NLT). That involves bringing people together from all walks of life—people who are culturally, politically, socioeconomically, and temperamentally different from one another. In other words, people with little in common. The apostle Paul wrote, “There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28 NLT). Yet the prejudices and misunderstandings that exist between these disparate groups don’t magically disappear when people come to Christ. Believers must work to change their thinking, to reach out to people who are different from them, to tear down walls and build bridges. To show love. Can people see that kind of love in your life? When people of different ages, backgrounds, and cultures set aside differences and come together to worship in the name of Jesus Christ, it serves as a powerful testimony to a world that is more divided than ever. Reflection question: What does love for other believers look like in your life? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God never leaves Himself without a witness. Get a peek into how the gospel spreads in the Great Tribulation and people from every tribe of Israel and every Gentile nation respond to God's grace. And you won't want to miss the scene of universal worship of God by His creatures. The church is there, Old Testament saints are there, Tribulation saints are there, and the angels join in. This is an amazing study.

Gary suggests that the names of the Gentile patriarchs in Genesis 5, when placed in an acrostic arrangement, may form the earliest statement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the entire Bible. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1094/29?v=20251111

Welcome to the Podcast of Southwest Bible Fellowship in Tempe, Arizona. WHO ARE WE? • We are a group of people who are committed to living the grace life as set forth by the apostle of the Gentiles, the Apostle Paul. • We come together to study our Bibles, and yes, we believe we have God's perfect Word in the King James Bible. It and it alone is our final authority in all matters of faith and practice! • We do not come together and study our Bibles for the intent of being smarter than others. We understand that knowledge for the sake of knowledge is purely vain and serves no Godly purpose. • We do come together and study our Bibles for the intent of knowing our Lord Jesus Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:10) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that we have been crucified with Christ; nevertheless we live; yet not us, but Christ liveth in us: and the life which we now live in the flesh, we live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us and gave himself for us. (Galatians 2:20) • We do come together and study our Bibles to understand that because Jesus Christ shed His blood for us and we should not live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:15) • We do not claim to have attained to these lofty goals, but we press toward the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14) You can donate to this ministry through www.butnow.org and the PayPal button on the homepage.

In this episode of "Gentiles Only" Orthodox Rabbi Elijah Pinchas continues the discussion of his book "The Restoration of All Things: A Gentiles Guide to Geulah." This episode covers Chapter 4: Jesus is the Anti Christ. Rabbi Elijah Pinchas as the author at Eye to Zion and the Executive Director of Facing Each Other. He is joined on this episode by Altarnate Media President and Cofound Bradley Vazquez, Vice President and Cofounder Seamus McGowan, and Producer and Staff Writer Jeremy Williams. https://www.facingeachother.com/ https://i2zion.com/ https://www.altarnatemedia.com/ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKV759RP?binding=paperback&qid=1734385736&sr=8-4&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_pc_tpbk https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G26N28JC?binding=hardcover&qid=1768182827&sr=8-1&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_pc_thcv https://altarnate-media-shop.fourthwall.com/collections/gentiles-only

Welcome to Day 2789 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2789 – A Sacrifice, A Savior, a Sword – Luke 2:21-38 Putnam Church Message – 12/28/2025 Luke's Account of the Good News - “A Sacrifice, A Savior, a Sword”   Last week, we continued our year-long study of Luke's Narrative of the Good News in a message titled: “The Nativity Revisited – Love Came Down.” This week is the final Sunday of 2025 – in some ways, it flew by in a flash, but in others, it has been a very long year. Today, we find the newborn Christ eight days old, and he is taken to the temple for circumcision and naming of the child, as every devout Hebrew did. Today's passage is the story of “A Sacrifice, A Savior, a Sword.” Our Core verses for this week are Luke 2:21-38, found on page 1591 of your Pew Bibles. Jesus Presented in the Temple  21 On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived. 22 When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”[b]), 24 and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.”[c] 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. 27 Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, 28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: 29 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss[d] your servant in peace. 30 For my eyes have seen your salvation, 31     which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” 33 The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul, too.” 36