Podcasts about gentiles

Presented by Lauren Stibgen Even though the phrase servant leadership isn't a biblical term, the Bible does tell us as leaders to serve! I am so thankful for God's Word and how it truly can inform how we work! Jesus tells us to serve in this passage. Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves (Luke 22:25-26). This verse follows a dispute among the disciples about who would be regarded as the greatest. Although we don't read as much detail about the last supper in Luke's account, we need to consider how Jesus modeled servant leadership to the disciples that night. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him (John 13:3-5). Jesus knew he was all powerful. God had put all things under his power yet he took the posture of a lowly servant and washed his disciples' feet, going as far as to use the towel on his body to dry them. He did not exercise lordship over them and demand they wash his feet, rather as the leader, he was the one who served. Do you exercise lordship, or, as a leader, do you serve? Maybe you are not yet thinking of yourself as a leader. Let's remove the notions of worldly appointments and titles. Jesus was not considered a leader by the people of his time, at least not in the sense of the synagogue or even in politics. It was through his service of speaking the Word of God, healing the sick, and performing miracles that Jesus came to be seen as a leader. And for some, his leadership blessed them, and others, it threatened. He didn't demand lordship as the Son of God, demanding to be followed. He was followed because he served! If you find yourself in a position where you do hold a title, are you using this for the betterment of those who see you in this position? What do they see? Are you demanding respect or giving it? Are you watching your team struggle to complete work or are you seeking to help?

Friends of the Rosary,Today, November 18, is the Memorial of the Dedication of the Basilicas of Sts. Peter and Paul, the two great Roman basilicas of St. Peter at the Vatican, on the site of the tomb of the Prince of the Apostles, and of St. Paul-Outside-the-Walls, situated at the other end of the city on the Ostian Way, where the Apostle of the Gentiles was sacrificed.These two basilicas in the Eternal City mark the sites of each apostle's martyrdom and are a testament to the heritage and glory of Christendom. They also connote the heavenly JerusalemFrom all lands, Christians made pilgrimages to them as to they are rock of faith and the foundation of the Church.In the U.S., we also celebrate the feast of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, Virgin (1769-1852). Born in Grenoble, France, St. Rose Philippine Duchesne was a Visitation nun who was sent to the Louisiana Territory as a missionary. She founded a boarding school for the daughters of pioneers near St. Louis and established the first free school west of the Missouri River. She also began a school for Indians.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• November 18, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Featured playlist: The Church (That Meets in My Home) — https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5Yobt1jZDd9Zzn8Ufa-BNciyYv04Cl6mMy books:Exalted: Putting Jesus in His Place — https://www.amazon.com/Exalted-Putting-Jesus-His-Place/dp/0985118709/ref=tmm_pap_title_0God's Design for Marriage (Married Edition) — https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Design-Marriage-Married-Amazing/dp/0998786306/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1493422125&sr=1-4&keywords=god%27s+design+for+marriageGod's Design for Marriage (Pre-married Edition) — https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Design-Marriage-What-Before/dp/0985118725/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_topSupport us - become a CTC Partner: https://crosstocrown.org/partners/crosstocrown.org@DougGoodin

What happened when Peter stepped into the home of a Gentile for the very first time? Cornelius prayed, God answered, and the Gospel message broke barriers that had stood for centuries. Join Jim Scudder on InGrace and see how this moment changed history forever.

Daily Dose of Hope November 18, 2025   Scripture – Acts 2   Prayer: Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, That my thoughts may all be holy. Act in me, O Holy Spirit, That my work, too, may be holy. Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, That I love but what is holy. Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, To defend all that is holy. Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, That I always may be holy.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We have just started the book of Acts, after walking through all the Gospels.  What a great spiritual journey this has been and I'm so glad you have joined us!  Today, we walk through Acts 2.   I'm going to start by reading the first three verses, On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place.  Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting.  Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them.    You guys, this is incredible.  First, let's talk about the roaring windstorm.  Throughout Scripture, wind is a symbol of the Holy Spirit.  In ancient Hebrew, we have the word, ruach, which means breath/wind/spirit and we see this word quite a bit in the Old Testament.  Wind represents the life-giving work of the Spirit.  Think about it.  In Genesis 2, God breathed life (ruach) into Adam.  In Ezekial 37, we are in the valley of dry bones and God has Ezekiel prophesy to the bones, saying "I will put my Spirit (ruach) in you and you will live."  In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is typically referred to in the Greek as pneuma.  The Holy Spirit comes upon Mary to form life in her womb.  In John 3:5, Jesus tells Nicodemus that the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life.    I can't help thinking, how many people need to experience the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit right now?  How many people are really struggling, barely holding on, languishing in doubt, pain, anger, cynicism?  Or maybe, you simply feel nothing?  There is NO true living without the presence of the Spirit, only existing.    Next, we have the tongues of fire.  Let's sit here for a second.  Fire is often descriptive of God in the Old Testament and it speaks to the purifying and refining work of the Holy Spirit.  In this sense, the Spirit causes things that are impure to become pure...lives, hearts. Matthew 3:11, John the Baptist says "I baptize you with water for repentance.  But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry.  He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire."  Peter speaks of the new Gentile believers as experiencing the Holy Spirit and having their hearts purified.    If something is pure, it is only one thing–pure gold, pure oxygen.  It isn't filled with contaminants or additives. It is totally and completely that one thing. I picture the Holy Spirit coming upon that group of believers on the day of Pentecost and purifying or refining their hearts so they would be totally and completely dedicated to the things of God, not half filled with the stuff of the world and half filled with the things of God.  I wonder that about our own hearts.  What contaminants have we allowed to seep in?  What do we need to purify? Come like a fire, Holy Spirit, and burn in us so that we can be pure and totally devoted to the things of Jesus.   Let's read some more Scripture, beginning with verse 4 (this is truly a paraphrase), All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.  This made a racket and a crowd forms...When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken...Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?  Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine."  And then Peter gets up and says, we aren't drunk, it's only 9 in the morning.  Let me tell you what his means...and he shares with them the Gospel, he speaks of how the Old Testament scriptures point to Jesus as the Messiah, he speaks of Jesus' ministry, his death, his resurrection and it says this,  Peter's words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, "Brothers, what should we do?"  Peter replied, "Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."   And what happened? 3000 believed and were baptized.  The Holy Spirit came, the people were given power to act, and they did it!  They trusted God and they responded.  This was essentially the beginning of the church.  At the end of chapter 2, we see how the people begin to gather to worship Jesus, to pray, to learn, to take care of one another, to celebrate the Lord's Supper.  They sold all they had and gave it to the poor among them.    We talked about how the Holy Spirit is life-giving and purifying but it also has power.  The Holy Spirit empowers believers to do really hard things.  If you have said yes to Jesus, then the Holy Spirit has made a home within you. The same spirit that raised Jesus from the dead LIVES within you.  And God didn't give us that power simply for our own use.  It's for the mission of sharing the love and grace of Jesus Christ with others.    Why do you think we struggle so much with that?  What part of the mission causes you to hide in fear?  Friends, we have POWER within us and it is given to us for the purpose of making disciples of Jesus Christ.  Let's just let that sit and settle.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Send us a textJesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18We exist to help people become fully engaged followers of Jesus.A man with leprosy came to him and begged him on his knees, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.” Jesus was indignant. He reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately the leprosy left him and he was cleansed. Jesus sent him away at once with a strong warning: “See that you don't tell this to anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.” Instead he went out and began to talk freely, spreading the news. As a result, Jesus could no longer enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places. Yet the people still came to him from everywhere. Mark 1:40-45Jesus was indignant. Mark 1:413 Lessons for Going out:1. Recognition2. ResponseHe reached out his hand and touched the man. Mark 1:413. RiskJesus could no longer enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places. Mark 1:45For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Mark 10:45But when Peter came to Antioch, I had to oppose him to his face, for what he did was very wrong. When he first arrived, he ate with the Gentile believers, who were not circumcised. But afterward, when some friends of James came, Peter wouldn't eat with the Gentiles anymore. He was afraid of criticism from these people who insisted on the necessity of circumcision. As a result, other Jewish believers followed Peter's hypocrisy, and even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy. Galatians 2:11-13 NLT1. Familiarity Breeds Comfort.2. Fear keeps us captive.3. Inertia is a powerful force.4. Don't have to wait till you're perfect.Discussion Questions:What's something you used to think was totally normal until you wentto someone else's house and realized… nope, that's just my family?How can being an “insider” in church become a spiritual danger?Have you ever caught yourself “blocking traffic” spirituallycomfortable but not moving?When Jesus saw the leper, He didn't just notice, He felt. What'ssomething happening around you right now that stirs emotions?How do you personally fight the pull toward comfort or routine faith?Jesus risked His reputation and comfort for people on the outside.What “risk” might obedience to God look like for you right now?What step could you take this week to movefrom spectator to servant? Thank you for listening to the Relate Community Church podcast! Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode. If today's message spoke to you, share it with a friend or leave us a review to help spread the word. To learn more about Relate Community Church, visit us at www.relatecommunity.com. You are always welcome here, and remember—you are loved

Verses 1-4 of Nehemiah 7 tells us that although the walls of Jerusalem had been rebuilt the houses had not yet been built. This left the city unprotected. From verses 5-65 the genealogies of the entire 42,360 returned exiles was recorded, with more than half of those verses being about the priests, the Levites and the Nethenim - indicating the importance of these to the newly reconstituted kingdom of Judah. It was essential that the credentials of a priest descended from Aaron be established for correct worship. The remaining verses record the gifts given by the people for worship. Joel 2 records the progress of the unstoppable Babylonian army. They are described as Yahweh's army, who are to execute his judgements on the "day of Yahweh". From verses 12-17 recorded an impassioned plea to return to their God. They needed to "rend their hearts, and not their clothes" (v13) for their Sovereign's loving kindness, grace and mercy have never left the One who so revealed Himself to Moses in Exodus 34verses6-7. So, if their LORD found a repentant people He would bless them. Those blessings are described in verses 18-27. They would see God's people eternally blessed. From verses 28-32 we have outlined for us how Yahweh would bring that blessing through the work of the Holy Spirit outpoured at the times of the Lord Jesus Christ- the Messiah of Israel, who would bring salvation to all - Jews and Gentiles alike on the basis of faith (or belief) starting in Jerusalem (Mount Zion). Compare this chapter to Acts 2verses14-41 and Romans 10verses8-17. The greetings and salutations commencing 2 Thessalonians are identical to Paul's other letters except for the pastoral epistles (1 Timothy; 2 Timothy; Titus). In chapter 1 verses 3-4 the Apostle thanks God for the Thessalonican brothers and sisters, whose faith was growing and their love increasing. Despite persecution they were steadfast for the gospel. From verses 5-12 Paul urges for that patience to continue for it will receive the promised reward at the second coming, and kingdom, of our Lord Jesus Christ. Our   Lord when he comes with the angels will also avenge his faithful. The persecutors of the believers will then receive what they deserve. Chapter 2 tells that before the Lord will come there will be a huge forsaking of the true belief and a system of deceit, which pretends to be the truth will arise in the earth. The words translated "falling away" and "lawlessness" both in the Greek language have the numerical value of 666 (compare Revelation 13verses16-18). From the other identifying features in this chapter and those within the book of Revelation tells us that this is the Roman Catholic Church with the Pope as its head. Note that the delusion which allowed this system to develop came about because those who fell away "received not the love of the Truth" (v10). From verses 13-17 the Apostle urges them to stand firm for the faith. Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

In this Bible Story, we learn about certain Jewish believers forcing Gentiles to be circumcised to be accepted into the family of God. Outraged by this, Paul and Barnabas hold a council of all the leaders in Jerusalem. They debate whether Gentiles should be forced to follow the Jewish customs laid out in the law. This story is inspired by Acts 15:1-35. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Acts 15:19 from the King James Version.Episode 230: The lies that began in Antioch continued to spread throughout the Christian communities causing division between Jewish and Gentile believers. So Paul and Barnabas called for the apostles and pastors to hold a council around this issue. In the middle of this debate, Peter stood and addressed the crowd reminding them what God has done among the Gentiles in their presence. In the end, James and the leaders wrote a letter of encouragement to clear up the confusion for the Gentile believers.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of 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.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Synopsis:I am reluctant to say that one portion of Scripture is more important than others.  But there are biblical passages packed with theological content and which have stirred much debate among the people of God across time, as does our text for this episode, 2 Corinthians 5:14-6:2.  In this section, Paul lays out what might just be the big picture thesis statement for Paul's Gentile mission–and perhaps even for the entire New Testament–1 Corinthians 5:19- “In Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.”  Christ's redemptive mission is made clear–he came to save sinners, not help us become better people nor transform culture.  He also gave to the church our marching orders–preach the message of reconciliation, the basis for all Christian hope–the knowledge that God is no longer angry with us.Reconciliation is an important matter for Paul.  The term refers to removing the ground of hostility between two parties so that they might be reconciled.  In this case, the human race, fallen in Adam, is estranged from the holy God because of the guilt of our sins.  But Paul's emphasis falls upon the fact that we have been reconciled to God through the saving work of Christ.  This raises questions about the nature and extent of the atonement–a major point of contention between Calvinists and those who hold to some version of a universal atonement.  How can Calvinists affirm that Christ died for the elect only when Paul says Jesus died for the world?  But then how can those holding to a universal atonement (as do Arminians) affirm that Christ's death does not avail for all those for whom he died?  People can and do perish eternally (on this view), after Christ has died for them.  We'll discuss the debate over the nature and extent of the atonement in this episode because our text raises these important questions.A second issue raised by Paul is eschatology.  His “two Adams” doctrine (cf. Romans 5:12-21) and his eschatology of new creation culminating in a day of final judgment is set out in these verses.  In Paul's federal or representative categories, Adam represents the entirety of the human race (all), while Christ represents those truly in the new covenant (for our sake).  Paul ties the new creation to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (v. 17) and sees it as a present reality to be fully realized on the day of salvation, when our Lord Jesus returns to raise the dead, judge the world, and usher in the fullness of new creation–a new heaven and earth.  This leaves no room for a future millennial age as many assume.When Paul speaks of a favorable time before the day of salvation, he's referring to the mission of the church as assigned here.  Christians are ambassadors for God, and are given the assignment of taking the message of reconciliation (the cross of Christ) to the ends of the earth.  Paul's instructions not only define the church's mission and evangelistic endeavors, but he also defines the church's message– “God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself.”  Any message proclaimed by the church other than that specifically assigned by Paul will inevitably reflect pagan influences such as those against which the Corinthians found themselves struggling.  We are not to be gospel-peddlers, but preachers of Christ and him crucified!For show notes and other recommended materials located at the Riddleblog as mentioned during the Blessed Hope Podcast, click here: https://www.kimriddlebarger.com/

God chose the children of Israel, and He gave them instructions for how to relate to Him and to their fellow man.  He intended them to be custodians of His word and to spread it across the face of the earth, but they did not obey Him, so He turned to the Gentiles.  Now He has set us apart to keep this stewardship. VF-2515 Exodus 19 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. ©2025 Pastor Melissa Scott, Ph.D., All Rights Reserved

 #jews #gentiles Who were you before Christ? We were without God and we had no hope. In this message by Pastor Alex Klimchuk, he talks about how Jews and Gentiles had no hope before Jesus was born. Ephesians 2:11-17, Galatians 3:28, Psalm 91, Psalm 137:9  Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, & SUBSCRIBE for more biblical teachings!   Please follow our websites for more! Website: http://www.newlifechurchsf.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewLifeSF/ Youtube: https://youtu.be/7Ig-qXgVAmE/ Pastor Alex Klimchuk New Life Church 500 S 1st Ave Sioux Falls, SD 57104

How did one vision and one meeting change the future of the Gospel? When Peter entered the home of Cornelius, it marked a turning point for Gentiles everywhere. Join Jim Scudder on InGrace for part one of One Small Step For Peter, One Giant Leap For Gentiles.

An expository sermon from Daniel 7:1-28 on Daniel's vision of world empires from the "times of the Gentiles" to the Reign of Christ.

Faithful Where You Are. “Slaves, obey your masters in all things. Do not obey just when they are watching you, to gain their favor, but serve them honestly, because you respect the Lord. In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people. Remember that you will receive your reward from the Lord, which he promised to his people. You are serving the Lord Christ.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭22‬-‭24‬ ‭NCV Faithful For The Right Reasons. “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Don't give offense to Jews or Gentiles or the church of God. I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don't just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved.” ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭31‬-‭33‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Faithful With What You Got.  “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God's grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need.” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭4‬:‭32‬-‭35‬ ‭NIV‬‬

One hundred years ago, many of the prophecies in this book were still obscure. Today as we are approaching the end, they become more understandable just as the angel told the prophet at the end of Daniel, “But you, Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book until the time of the end.” (Daniel 12:2) Daniel's prophecies provide us with a comprehensive and chronological prophetical view of the broad movement of history, from the Times of the Gentiles to the Messianic Rule of Messiah. It is also thoroughly practical as well. In the harsh environment of the captivity, the faith, prayer life, and the love for God Daniel had still stands today as a great example for us to follow.Welcome to Shalom Ariel and the continuing study in the Book of Daniel with Messianic leader, Jacques Isaac Gabizon. Be blessed as you listen, shalom. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29?v=20251111

Series: The Book of RomansTitle: Saint Paul, The Missionary to the GentilesText: Romans 15:14-33

Tim Virgo speaks on Romans 9-11 and unpacks Paul's deepest questions about Israel, election, mercy, and God's unfolding plan for Jews and Gentiles. With powerful imagery, the message reveals a God whose promises never fail and whose sovereignty brings hope, humility, and assurance. #Romans #GodsFaithfulness #HopeIpswich

In this Bible Story, Paul is nearly stoned to death by Jewish Christians who seek to control Gentiles by the law. They are dangerous and controlling. Yet Paul does not let the stones stop him. This story is inspired by Acts 14. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Acts 14:19 from the King James Version.Episode 229: As Paul and Barnabas entered Iconium to preach, both Jews and Gentiles were receptive and restored by the message of love and mercy in Jesus that they brought. But not everyone in the city was happy about this change. Certain men of influence added poison to these teachings and stirred the people against Paul and Barnabas. So they fled to Lystra where they healed a man and were called gods by the men of the city. Just as Paul and Barnabas convinced the crowd that they were mere men, the elders of Antioch came and captured Paul, bringing him out to the city to be stoned. But because of what God did for him, Paul went right back to the city the next day to continue preaching the good news of Jesus.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of 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.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

This message takes us deep into Acts 13, where we encounter the church of Antioch—a congregation of unlikely leaders who became instrumental in launching the first missionary movement. The leadership team included Barnabas, a Levite from the wrong place; Simeon from North Africa, facing racial prejudice; Lucius from Libya, a Gentile convert; Manaen from royal privilege; and Paul, formerly a persecutor of Christians. Each had reasons to feel disqualified, yet God used them powerfully. The central truth here challenges everything we believe about our own limitations: God uses the least likely people to do the most unlikely things. This isn't just ancient history—it's a mirror reflecting our own insecurities and excuses. We're confronted with the reality that every reason we think disqualifies us from kingdom work is demolished by this chapter. The Antioch church wasn't great because of pedigree or talent; they excelled in the basics—worship, fasting, and prayer. They positioned themselves to need God, and He showed up. The story of Paul confronting the sorcerer Elymas reveals that our past struggles aren't prisons but training grounds. What was meant to destroy us, God redeems for His purposes. The question becomes intensely personal: Are we spectators or participants in God's mission? Are we living as 'Comcast Christians,' merely watching life happen, or are we stepping into the calling that's been placed on our lives? God doesn't need our perfection or our credentials—He's looking for our 'yes.'

October 1, 2025 - Wednesday PM Bible Class   In this episode the speaker walks through Ephesians chapter 4, transitioning from the doctrinal foundation of the first three chapters to the practical, everyday implications for Christian living. The talk highlights major themes including the spiritual blessings we have in Christ, reconciliation between Jews and Gentiles, and the central call to unity in the church. Audience interaction (including remarks from Gary, Neil, Bob and others) helps illustrate the points and keeps the session conversational. Key doctrinal reminders include the seven "ones" (one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God) and the idea that Christ has ascended and given gifts to the church. The lecture examines the roles named in the text — apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors/shepherds and teachers — and explains their purpose in equipping the saints for ministry and building up the body until unity and maturity in Christ are reached. The speaker emphasizes the character qualities that promote unity: lowliness, gentleness, long-suffering, and above all humility. Practical application covers putting off the "old man" and putting on the "new man" through the renewing of the mind, resisting false teaching, and pursuing spiritual growth (moving from milk to meat). Concrete behavioral instructions are discussed at length: speak truthfully, manage anger ("be angry and do not sin" — deal with conflict quickly and avoid giving the devil a foothold), stop stealing and work to give to those in need, and avoid corrupt talk. Instead, believers are urged to be kind, tenderhearted and forgiving, following Christ's example and remembering that they are sealed by the Holy Spirit. Other themes include church growth as a result of every member contributing their gifts, the importance of mentorship and teaching, and biblical counsel on discernment and maturity (references to Hebrews and Romans are used to underscore growth expectations). The episode closes with a challenge to live out the contrasts of Ephesians — old vs. new, death vs. life — and practical encouragement to pursue unity, holiness and loving service within the church.   Duration 40:31

Today we explored the biblical role of Gentiles in God's covenant plan with Israel. From the covenants to Paul's revelation in Ephesians and Romans, we learned that Gentile believers are called not to replace Israel but to stand with them, fight for the covenant, and live as “quality Gentiles” who stir Israel to jealousy. Through examples like Caleb, Ittai, and Cyrus, we saw what loyalty, conviction, and covenant faithfulness look like. This message calls us to understand our place in God's story and to walk in unity with the people through whom redemption came.

Tightrope: Balancing Grace and Truth in 1 Corinthians Week 3: “Freedom and Responsibility” Write Up: In this sermon, we will look into Paul's teachings on Christian freedom and its limitations. We'll discuss how to balance the grace of freedom in Christ with the truth of our responsibility to others and to God. This includes addressing issues of personal conduct, and how our actions affect the community of believers. We will also discover that just because we can do something doesn't mean that we should. Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, 10:23-33 Think: Freedom in Christ is a gift that carries responsibility. Feel: Conviction about areas where my freedom may have been selfish or harmful. Do: Encourage others to live with freedom that is balanced by responsibility. POINT #1 – WHAT WE DO MATTERS  1 Corinthians 6:12-18 “You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything. You say, “Food was made for the stomach, and the stomach for food.” (This is true, though someday God will do away with both of them.) But you can't say that our bodies were made for sexual immorality. They were made for the Lord, and the Lord cares about our bodies. And God will raise us from the dead by his power, just as he raised our Lord from the dead. Don't you realize that your bodies are actually parts of Christ? Should a man take his body, which is part of Christ, and join it to a prostitute? Never! And don't you realize that if a man joins himself to a prostitute, he becomes one body with her? For the Scriptures say, “The two are united into one.” But the person who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with him. Run from sexual sin! No other sin so clearly affects the body as this one does. For sexual immorality is a sin against your own body.” (1 Corinthians 6:12-18**, NLT**) POINT #2 – OUR CHOICES EFFECT OTHERS 1 Corinthians 10:23-30 “You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is beneficial. Don't be concerned for your own good but for the good of others. So you may eat any meat that is sold in the marketplace without raising questions of conscience. For “the earth is the LORD's, and everything in it.” If someone who isn't a believer asks you home for dinner, accept the invitation if you want to. Eat whatever is offered to you without raising questions of conscience. (But suppose someone tells you, “This meat was offered to an idol.” Don't eat it, out of consideration for the conscience of the one who told you. It might not be a matter of conscience for you, but it is for the other person.) For why should my freedom be limited by what someone else thinks? If I can thank God for the food and enjoy it, why should I be condemned for eating it?” (1 Corinthians 10:23-30**, NLT**) POINT #3 – WALK THE TIGHTROPE FOR THE GLORY OF GOD  1 Corinthians 10:31-33 “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. Don't give offense to Jews or Gentiles or the church of God. I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don't just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved.” (1 Corinthians 10:31-33**, NLT**) Think About It. 1. How have you experienced freedom in Christ, and what challenges have come with it? 2. Can you think of a time when your personal freedom affected someone else—positively or negatively? 3. What “guardrails” could you put in place to help you make choices that honor God and others? 4. How does knowing the Holy Spirit is with you change the way you approach freedom and responsibility? 5. In practical ways, how can you walk this tightrope in your daily life—at work, at home, online, or in relationships? For more information about Middle River Assembly of God visit https://middleriverag.org/ To help support the mission of Middle River Assembly of God, please go to our new giving platform https://tithe.ly/give?c=4877442 CCLI Copyright License # 1013363 CCLI Streaming License # 20006236 Thank you for your support. Middle River Assembly of God 9620 Bird River Rd. Middle River, MD 21220 MiddleRiverAG@Gmail.com FB.com/MiddleRiverAG 410-391-7993 Links Website Facebook Twitter Instagram https://tithe.ly/give?c=4877442 Find out more at https://love-connect-grow-serve-sermon.pinecast.co This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

Solomon prepared to build the temple by negotiating with the pagan King Hiram of Tyre for timber, skilled workers, and other materials. What did God think about this? This text reveals a (perhaps surprising) pattern of God using Jews and Gentiles to build his house; a pattern that continues today in Christ. Read more...

As we begin this passage, you may notice something unusual. Paul, in almost every other letter, begins with thanksgiving. Even when writing to the troubled church in Corinth, Paul could still thank God for His grace at work among them. But not here. Not in Galatians. There is no thanksgiving, no pause for polite greetings, no gentle buildup. Instead, Paul comes in with the shock of holy astonishment: “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ…” Something had gone terribly wrong in these churches. They had started well, embracing the gospel of grace that Paul preached — salvation through faith in Christ alone. But now, they were turning to what Paul calls “a different gospel,” a distortion that added requirements to the finished work of Jesus. In this case, it was the teaching of Judaizers — insisting that Gentile believers needed to obey the ceremonial law, including circumcision, to be fully accepted by God. And, brothers and sisters, this is not just an ancient problem. The temptation to believe in Christ plus something else is alive and well today. Christ plus performance. Christ plus tradition. Christ plus a certain spiritual experience. The problem is, when you add anything to Christ, you don't enhance the gospel — you lose it altogether. This passage is God's urgent word to His church: there is no other gospel. Not then, not now, not ever. And so this morning, we will walk carefully through these verses to understand their meaning, to see how Christ fulfills them, and to hear how the Spirit calls us to cling to the one true gospel with unwavering faith. AM Service 16 November 2025, Lebanon Presbyterian Church (PCA), Abbeville, South Carolina, USA

(1Mac.1:10-15,41-43,54-57,62-63; Ps.119:53,61,88,134,150,155,158; Lk.18:35-43) "Terrible affliction was upon Israel." Oh how the nation had become so blind. Oh how they had turned from their God. Some "preferred to die rather than be defiled with unclean food or to profane the covenant," but most ate freely of the poisonous fruit of the tree of abomination, and so became as the blind man begging by the side of the road – so spiritually bereft were they. Our reading from Maccabees tells of a terrible time of persecution upon the Israelite nation less than two hundred years before the coming of Christ, and it shows that that persecution comes from within the community itself, as "men who were breakers of the law" sought alliance with the Gentiles and their pagan worship, thinking so foolishly that this would bring them blessing and comfort. How readily "they sacrificed to idols and profaned the sabbath." And the date is given here when "the king erected the horrible abomination upon the altar of holocausts," signifying Israel's complete turn from God and His laws to the vain worship of false gods. Our psalm speaks repeatedly of "the snares of the wicked," "the oppression of men," the "malicious persecutors," the "sinners," the "apostates" who turn from the law and attempt to "twine" others about in their evil. This is man's sin from the beginning – attempting to form God of his own hands, refusing to be obedient to the ways the loving Father has imparted for his salvation, for his blessing. Man gives himself over to the lusts of this world and the imagination of a proud mind, and through such exaltation of self finds himself soon lost in the confusion that such vanity can only bring. But in the meantime he persecutes the just who hold to the way of truth; for a while he fools himself by the glamour of his idols. But soon the blindness sets in, and soon the salvation of the just shall come. If we are in affliction because of the persecution of this world of sin that surrounds and closes in, we should consider ourselves blessed; this affliction is proof of our faith, and upon it the Lord looks with favor. If we are afflicted with the blindness of the nations wrought by our wallowing in sin, we'd best cry out to the Lord as He passes us on the way to Jerusalem. He will hear us and He will stop, if we are persistent in our cries. And it is so that our faith will make us whole. Let us find our sight by the intercession of Christ and "giving God the glory" begin "to follow Him," whatever cross may await us. ******* O LORD, woe to those who forsake your law! – let them cry out to you with full voice that they may be saved. YHWH, how blind we have become, turning from your law, from your holy ways, to worship the false and empty gods of the nations. O may your Son turn to us and have pity this day that we might see His goodness before us and follow Him to the New Jerusalem. Let us not be counted among those who forsake your Law and profane your Temple; let us rather die than break your Covenant. By the side of the road we sit and cry for all the afflictions our sin has brought upon us. What hope have we, O LORD, of being taken from this dark place, how could we escape the snares of the wicked round about us, if your Son did not stop and call us to Himself, if He did not come into the midst of the darkness to save us. Glory to you, O God, and to you alone, for your promise you have not forgotten. From all evil keep us safe.

The sermon centers on Jesus' encounter with Gentile seekers in John 12, using their desire to 'see Jesus' as a powerful metaphor for the ongoing call to evangelism in a world hungry for truth. It emphasizes that, just as the Greeks were barred from the inner courts of Herod's temple, many today are spiritually blocked by religious barriers, making the church's role as 'serving hands' essential. The core message is that true discipleship requires surrender—like the grain of wheat that must die to bear fruit—inviting believers to actively share the gospel with courage and humility. The preacher underscores that salvation comes only through faith in Christ, not works or tradition, and calls both the unsaved to respond and the saved to lead others, highlighting that every soul's conversion brings joy in heaven and fulfills Christ's mission to draw all people to Himself.

Delivered by Jeril from the Parish of Saint Joseph in the Archdiocese of Makassar, Indonesia. 1 Maccabees 1: 10-15.41-43.54-57.62-64; Rs psalm 119: 53.61.134.150.155.158; Luke 18: 35-43.MAYI SEE Ourmeditation today is entitled: May I See. There is a story in the Old Testament,about a number of Israelites choosing to submit to the decree of King AntiochusEpiphanes to worship the gods of the Gentiles. For that reason, they built agymnasium in Jerusalem and many temples in the midst of their very religioustraditions. Buttheir actions were opposed by other fellow Jews who remained firm in theirfaith in the God of their ancestors. These believers could see God veryclearly. While those who chose to worship idols had their eyes closed so theywere not able to see and worship the true God. This is the content of our firstreading taken from the First Book of Maccabees. Thissituation is also described in the Gospel of today. People who were worldly intheir attitude wanted to prevent the meeting of the blind man with Jesus sothat he would not receive healing and sight. Meanwhile, the blind man hadfaith. He saw and called on the Lord. Our lives are also divided between thosewith the eyes of faith that enable them to see clearly and the eyes of theworld that are blurred and even blind, making them unable to see the mystery ofGod's glory. Thosewho are consistent and faithful in their faith are considered to have visionsof faith that are clear, real, and bright. This vision indeed builds a person'strust. These eyes of faith shape the life of a believer, so that even thoughthey are in difficult moments, troubles, and persecutions, it is this faiththat helps them endure in life. When they see and experience disaster, murder,hunger, sickness, and neglect, they will respond with an attitude formed byfaith. However,perhaps many of us have difficulty in seeing with the eyes of faith. Perhaps wewho hear this meditation are not the same as those who worship idols, or whohave renounced faith, or who are hostile toward believers. But it can be truethat in the midst of difficulties or suffering, both spiritual and physical,there are people who are unable to face them with an attitude of faith. Perhapspeople immediately think negatively, or see things only in physical, outward,or material terms. Consequently, their souls become fragile and easily losehope. But if their souls are strong, their faith firm, and their vision offaith clear, they will still rely on God in all aspects of their lives. So, theprayer that we ought to say is: O Lord, may I see You. Let's pray. In thename of the Father… O Father of all wisdom, may we be able to see with the eyesof faith all realities of life, especially the difficulties and sufferings weexperience. Hail Mary, full of grace… In the name of the Father…

Stephen Kuhrt speaking at the 9:30 service in the series Learning from King David

It's Friday, November 14th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Iranian Christian prisoner denied treatment after spinal fracture On October 31st, Iranian Muslim authorities denied proper medical treatment to a prisoner named Aida Najaflou, an Iranian Christian convert, after she fell and fractured her spine, reports International Christian Concern. Najaflou, who suffered from spinal disc issues before her arrest, sustained the injury when she fell from her top prison bunk. She was taken to a local hospital, where medical professionals diagnosed a fractured T12 vertebra. Shockingly, Muslim authorities refused to allow Najaflou to obtain treatment and, instead, used a stretcher to bring her back to the prison that same day.  Due to the inhumane treatment and pain that Najaflou endured, fellow prisoners reportedly protested the situation. Iranian officials responded by taking the woman to a second hospital, where doctors recommended emergency surgery to repair her vertebra.   According to the Cleveland Clinic, “spinal fracture surgery” is recommended if the spinal fracture is in danger of damaging your spinal cord or if your pain doesn't improve a few months after non-surgical treatments.” The prolonging of proper care for Najaflou's injury is likely to have caused additional, unnecessary pain. Romans 5:3-5 says, “We know that suffering produces perseverance;  perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, Who has been given to us.” Sadly, previous requests from Najaflou for a lower bunk, based on her pre-existing spinal problems and a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, were dismissed by prison authorities.  Najaflou, along with two other Christians, was arrested in February 2025 for their Christian activities, including “praying, performing baptisms, taking communion, and celebrating Christmas.” She also spoke out against the Islamic Republic of Iran. According to Open Doors, Iran is the ninth most difficult country worldwide for Christians. Trump chastises Democrats for 43-day gov't shutdown Late Wednesday night, President Donald Trump signed legislation to end the Schumer Shutdown of government that spanned 43 days, punting the next funding deadline into late January, reports Politico.com. He called out the extortion of the Democrats who tried to force the funding of health care for illegal aliens as well as the extension of Obamacare benefits which they themselves had sunset. TRUMP: “Today, we're sending a clear message that we will never give into extortion, because that's what it was. The Democrats tried to extort our country. “In just a moment, I'll sign a bill exactly like we asked Democrats to send us all along, many days ago.  Republicans never wanted a shutdown and voted 15 times for a clean continuation of funding. Yet the extremists in the other party insisted on creating the longest government shutdown in American history, and they did it purely for political reasons.” President Trump explained the harm the Democrats caused. TRUMP: “Over the past seven weeks, the Democrats shut down as inflicted massive harm. They caused 20,000 flights to be canceled or delayed. They look very bad, the Democrats do. “They deprived more than one million government workers from their paychecks and cut off food stamp benefits for millions and millions more Americans in need. They caused tens of thousands of federal contractors and small businesses to go unpaid. And the total effect of the damage their antics caused will take weeks, and probably months, to really calculate accurately. “So, I just want to tell the American people, you should not forget this. When we come up to midterms, don't forget what they've done to our country.” The House passed the funding measure earlier in the evening, after eight Senate Democrats broke with their party to advance the package Monday night. Paychecks to federal workers reportedly will begin going out Saturday, reports NewsMax. Trump faces biggest Republican rebellion yet over Epstein Republicans are preparing a mass rebellion against President Donald Trump in a vote to release all classified files related to the late sexual predator Jeffrey Epstein, reports The Telegraph. At least 100 or more Republicans are expected to support the release of the files after a selection of emails sent by the deceased pedophile financier, that frequently mention the U.S. president, were made public on Wednesday. President Trump was friends with Epstein before the pair fell out in the early 2000s, but has always denied any knowledge of or involvement with Epstein's sex-trafficking or abuse of underage girls. Senator John Fetterman hospitalized after fall John Fetterman, the senior U.S. senator from Pennsylvania, was hospitalized on November 13th after falling down and hitting his face due to a heart-related issue, reports The Epoch Times. Because he had “a ventricular fibrillation flare,” a condition where the heart stops pumping blood to parts of the body, Fetterman became “light-headed” and then fell to the ground in Braddock, Pennsylvania, “hitting his face with minor injuries.” Kamala to Jon Stewart: Biden was competent to be President As part of her 107 Days book tour, former Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris was oddly hesitant to question President Joe Biden's mental acuity on Jon Stewart's podcast Listen. HARRIS: “I believe he was fully competent to serve.” STEWART: “Do you really?” HARRIS: “Yeah, I do.” STEWART:  “That, that surprises me, actually.” HARRIS: “No, I do. There's a distinction to be made between running for president and being president.” STEWART: “What's the distinction?” HARRIS: “Well, being a candidate for president United States is about being in a marathon, at a sprinter's pace, having tomatoes thrown at you every step you take.” STEWART: (laughs) “That sounds lovely.” HARRIS: “Yeah, it's more than a notion. And to be the seated president, the sitting president, while doing that, it's a lot.” STEWART: “I think it's a hard case to make for people that he didn't have the stamina to run, but he had the stamina to govern, because I think most people view the presidency as a marathon, run at a sprint, with tomatoes being thrown at you, in terms of governance.” Not surprisingly, people on social media were incredulous. On X, AdaminHTownTX asked, “If Biden was competent to serve, why did his party force him out of the race and install Kamala as the nominee?” Harris has hinted at a second presidential bid in 2028. Obama accused of destroying national landmark to build monument to himself What kind of U.S. president demolishes a cherished piece of American history in order to build a shrine to himself? Locals are still trying to make sense of the $850 million Obama Presidential Center, dubbed “The Obamalisk,” which broke ground in Chicago's historic Jackson Park in 2021 and will be finished next spring, reports the New York Post. Renowned Chicago architect Grahm Balkany, a self-described liberal, is upset. He said, “Obama, of all people, should not be building a palace for himself, a fortress in the middle of a public park. It's just contrary to what I thought he believed in.” Greg Laurie to hold crusade where Charlie Kirk was killed And finally, Evangelist Greg Laurie will headline a Harvest Crusade event at Utah Valley University, where conservative Christian activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated on September 10th during a Turning Point USA event, reports The Christian Post. Approximately, 10,000 attendees are expected. Known as “Hope for America,” the event will be held this Sunday, November 16. LAURIE:  “This is the place where Charlie left this world for the next world. We're going to go into that campus where darkness took place, and we're going to turn on the radiant light of Jesus Christ and preach that same Gospel that Charlie preached and call people to Christ.” Romans 1:16 says, “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, November 14th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

There's a rising chorus of voices - some hostile, others simply misinformed - claiming that modern Jews aren't the same people God called His own in Scripture.  In this episode, we sit down with Messianic teacher Mottel Baleston to dismantle the Khazar conspiracy and explore the deeper theological question behind it: Are the Jewish people of today truly the covenant people of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? Baleston traces the Jewish story through Scripture, history, and even modern genetics to show that God's promises have never been revoked.  The Jewish people remain central to His plan of redemption, not as spiritual relics, but as living proof that God keeps His word.  This isn't just about disproving bad history - it's about recovering biblical clarity for the Church and real love for Israel. Key Takeaways The Khazar theory is a debunked 20th-century myth rooted in antisemitism, not scholarship. Scripture defines Jewish identity through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob - not conspiracy or culture. There have always been Jews in the Land of Israel - always. Modern DNA studies (Stanford & Wayne State) confirm genetic continuity with ancient Israel. The myth that “the Church replaced Israel” contradicts Romans 11, where Paul warns Gentile believers not to boast. Being “chosen” is not about superiority - it's about responsibility to reveal God's glory to the nations. Every believer has a calling: to reject antisemitism and stand with God's eternal covenant people. Chapter Markers 00:00 – Welcome & intro to Mottel Baleston 03:20 – The real question: Are modern Jews biblical Israel? 08:15 – Who is a Jew? Scripture's definition 10:30 – The three Jewish diasporas: Ashkenazi, Sephardi, Mizrahi 18:40 – The rise of the Khazar myth 26:00 – DNA, history, and debunking conspiracy 36:00 – The spiritual roots of antisemitism 45:00 – God's covenant faithfulness in Romans 11 48:30 – Where to learn more from Mottel Baleston Explore more resources and join the journey at thejewishroad.com. Dive deeper into Mottel Baleston's teaching at messiahnj.org or on YouTube by searching “Mottel Baleston”- and discover how God's promises to Israel still shape our faith today.

Temple Structure & the Gospel, Part 2 of 3: In Ephesians 2, the apostle Paul laid out a brilliant truth—one best understood when we take note of the Second Jewish Temple's structure. He explained that Gentiles, who were once far from God and didn't know Him, now have access to Him through Jesus, the Son of God. But does this ... Read More The post Temple Structure & the Gospel, Part 2 of 3 | November 15, 2025 appeared first on The Friends of Israel Today Radio.

Beloved in Christ, join us in this soul-stirring exploration of Romans 3:9-20, where St. Paul boldly declares that all—Jew and Gentile alike—are held captive under sin's shadow. With heartfelt wisdom, we delve into humanity's universal fall, the law's inability to save through fleshly weakness, and God's glorious remedy: righteousness by faith in Jesus Christ alone. Drawing from ancient liturgies of holy baptism and the Church Fathers, discover how free will led to corruption, yet divine grace lifts us to eternal inheritance. A faith-filled reminder to cling to the Good Shepherd's perfect goodness, seek His will daily, and live out deeds of love. Amen—may this message ignite your heart for deeper obedience!Rom 12:2John 10:11;151 Cor 13:9Phil 3:12-141 John 3:6

Send us a textAnd so, friends, what we look at today, in a sense, is the heart of the Christian life. We are called to walk worthy of our calling. To live in a way that reflects the One who has called us out of darkness into His marvellous light.Paul says: Don't walk like the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their minds. Don't drift back to what you once were. Instead, put off the old self, be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, created according to God in true righteousness and holiness.That means walking in righteousness — doing what is right because it's right, because it pleases the Lord. It means walking in love — seeking the highest good of others, speaking the truth in love. And it means walking in wisdom — bringing together righteousness and love in a way that reflects the mind of Christ.And when you live like that, when you walk in that way, it will have an impact. On your family. In your workplace. In your church. Even on the people who happen to be sitting next to you in a waiting room, because light cannot help but shine.So, as you go about your week, remember this simple calling: Walk in righteousness. Walk in love. Walk in wisdom. That's what it means to walk worthy of your calling in Christ.And may the Lord strengthen you to do just that.Support the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

One hundred years ago, many of the prophecies in this book were still obscure. Today as we are approaching the end, they become more understandable just as the angel told the prophet at the end of Daniel, “But you, Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book until the time of the end.” (Daniel 12:2) Daniel's prophecies provide us with a comprehensive and chronological prophetical view of the broad movement of history, from the Times of the Gentiles to the Messianic Rule of Messiah. It is also thoroughly practical as well. In the harsh environment of the captivity, the faith, prayer life, and the love for God Daniel had still stands today as a great example for us to follow.Welcome to Shalom Ariel and the continuing study in the Book of Daniel with Messianic leader, Jacques Isaac Gabizon. Be blessed as you listen, shalom. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29?v=20251111

• Explore the pivotal moment of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. This episode delves into the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy as Jesus rides into the city on a donkey, welcomed by crowds shouting "Hosanna!" Discover the significance of the Passover context, the reactions of various groups including religious leaders and Gentiles, and Jesus' declaration that His "hour has come." Learn about the shift in Jesus' ministry, His predictions of His coming death, and the coming expansion of His mission to include all nations.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @biblelitTwitter: @bible_litFacebook: @biblelitEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.org Want to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out ou...

Send us a textWhat if the phrase you've been taught to cherish—“Judeo-Christian”—actually blurs the gospel more than it clarifies it? We take on one of the most charged topics in the church today: how to think biblically about Israel, the Church, and the unfolding promise of God without caving to political slogans or tribal pressure. With open Bibles and steady pacing, we examine covenant theology vs dispensationalism, trace the seed of Abraham to Christ, and ask who “God's chosen people” really are according to Romans 9, Matthew 5, and the story of Scripture.We walk through the Old Testament's continuity with the New, highlighting Christophanies and the progressive revelation of the covenants—Edenic, Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic, and New—unified in Jesus. Along the way, we reckon with modern Zionism's surge, the origins of the word Jew, and why many churches drift into syncretism when Israeli symbols are platformed as if they share equal footing with the cross. We also tackle the role of rabbinic tradition—Talmud, Mishnah, Midrash—and why contemporary Judaism is not simply “Old Testament minus Jesus,” but a different authority structure that often contradicts the Bible and rejects Christ.None of this is a political screed. It's a call to clarity, courage, and love. We argue for a Christ-centered approach that honors Scripture's storyline, resists proof-texting, and refuses to baptize any modern nation as covenantally chosen. Most importantly, we urge Christians to evangelize both Jew and Gentile with humility and urgency, embracing the watchman's responsibility: warn faithfully, love deeply, and trust God with the outcome.If you're ready to replace slogans with Scripture and sentiment with substance, this conversation will sharpen your mind and steady your heart. Listen, test everything in the Word, and tell us where you land. Subscribe, share with a friend who's wrestling through this, and leave a review to help more people find thoughtful, Bible-first conversations like this.Support the show

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.

One hundred years ago, many of the prophecies in this book were still obscure. Today as we are approaching the end, they become more understandable just as the angel told the prophet at the end of Daniel, “But you, Daniel, shut up the words and seal the book until the time of the end.” (Daniel 12:2) Daniel's prophecies provide us with a comprehensive and chronological prophetical view of the broad movement of history, from the Times of the Gentiles to the Messianic Rule of Messiah. It is also thoroughly practical as well. In the harsh environment of the captivity, the faith, prayer life, and the love for God Daniel had still stands today as a great example for us to follow.Welcome to Shalom Ariel and the continuing study in the Book of Daniel with Messianic leader, Jacques Isaac Gabizon. Be blessed as you listen, shalom. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29?v=20251111

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ TODAY'S DAILY SPONSOR: The cost of today’s episode is financially supported by David, from Ohio, who listens every morning. You can sponsor a daily episode of the Morning Mindset too, by going to https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/DailySponsor ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 1 Peter 4:3 - For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

Follow me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I share daily reminders to pray for China.You can also email me anytime @ bfwesten at gmail dot com. Last but not least, to learn more about our strategic prayer and missions projects or to get one of my missionary biographies, visit PrayGiveGo.us! Welcome to this episode of the “Prison Pulpit” on the China Compass podcast on the Fight Laugh Feast network! I'm your China travel guide, Missionary Ben, recording today from the foot of Mt. Ida in Turkey! Since I’m still in Turkey today, and just down the road from the ancient port of Troas, which we visited yesterday, I want to meditate once more on some of Paul's words from prison, especially his words to Timothy in 2nd Timothy, his final letter in the New Testament: 2 Timothy 1:2-12, 15-18: To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. [3] I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. [4] As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. [5] I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. [6] For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, [7] for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. [8] Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, [9] who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, [10] and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, [11] for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, [12] which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me. . . [15] You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes. [16] May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, [17] but when he arrived in Rome he searched for me earnestly and found me— [18] may the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that day!—and you well know all the service he rendered at Ephesus. 2 Timothy 2:3-10: [3] Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. [4] No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. [5] An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. [6] It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops. [7] Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. [8] Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel, [9] for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound! [10] Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. 2 Timothy 3:10-13: [10] You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, [11] my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me. [12] Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, [13] while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 2 Timothy 4:6-18: [6] For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. [7] I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. [8] Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. [9] Do your best to come to me soon. [10] For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. [11] Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry. [12] Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. [13] When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments. [14] Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. [15] Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our message. [16] At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! [17] But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. [18] The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. John Piper on the What Paul Left in Troas https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/the-sadness-and-beauty-of-pauls-final-words Follow China Compass Subscribe to China Compass wherever you get your podcasts. Follow me on X (@chinaadventures), check out our website (PrayGiveGo.us) and email anytime @ (bfwesten at gmail dot com). Hebrews 13:3!

This episode is one of Pastor Jack Abeelen's recent radio broadcasts. Pastor Jack's teachings are broadcast every weekday on over 400 radio stations across the country.The Growing Thru Grace radio broadcast is an outreach of Morningstar Christian Chapel in Whittier, California.To see more of Pastor Jack's Bible studies, visit our Morningstar Christian Chapel channel at https://www.youtube.com/@morningstarcc.To subscribe to our Podcast newsletter go to http://eepurl.com/iGzsP6.If you would like to support our electronic ministry, you may do so by going to our donations page at https://morningstarcc.churchcenter.com/giving/to/podcast.Visit our church website at https://morningstarcc.org.

Ezra 9 tells of the problems of those who had married nonbelievers. Verse 4 tells that the rulers and officials had been at the forefront of those who had disobeyed God's command about this. The reader should look at Malachi 2verses10-16 and Nehemiah 13verses23-27 to understand Yahweh's views on this subject; and why His prophets were so strong in denouncing this practice. From verse 10-15 Ezra seeks God's forgiveness of His people for their wrongful ways in marrying out of the Truth and counsels all of God's people to forsake that dangerous and evil course.Hosea 10 tells of a vine that produced no fruit for God. How often do the prophets and the Lord Jesus Christ take up this theme cp Isaiah 5 and consider the number of references in the last week of our Lord to the barrenness of the fruitless, but showy fig tree. Also see John 15 where our Lord comments on himself being the vine. Without fruit a vine is useless - its wood is poor fuel; its wood cannot be used to make anything. We are useless unless we are producing the fruit of the spirit for God in our lives (see Galatians 5verses22-25; and Ephesians 5verses8-16). But for Israel when the LORD looked at their actions, instead of fruit, He saw poisonous weeds. Instead of sincere worship of Yahweh He saw the idolatrous calf worship. Bethel (meaning "the house of God") becomes Bethaven ("the house of vanity" - or "nothingness"). The result of this would be the delivering up to captivity of Israel to nations who were themselves ruled by idolatry. Israel's sinfulness was evident from earliest times, even when the Tabernacle was at Gibeah. The Lord God would again bring them under the yoke, when they will finally learn righteousness and will open their hearts to God as the poetic symbol of breaking open the fallow ground of their hearts suggests. By doing this God would be able to rain blessings on them. But the coming judgment would be a necessary part of helping Israel to learn this.Paul sent the letter to the Colossians in about 62 AD. He never personally visited the region where there were two groups of believers - one in Colossae and the other in Laodicea. The one letter was read by both at this time and about 34 years' time when another letter was sent in 96 AD by the Lord Jesus Christ. The area was exceptionally fertile and lay in a very rich valley. The epistle commenced with the greeting "Grace ('charis' the Greek greeting) and peace ('shalom' the Jewish greeting) coming to the believers from God our Father. This is followed by thanksgiving and prayer for their faithfulness in the gospel as reported to the Apostle from Epaphras. The believers were increasing in knowledge and love. But the greatest of all thanks was to be expressed to God, our Father, who had "qualified us to share the inheritance of the saints in light ... and has transferred us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son" (verses 12-13 ESV). Then from verses 14-23 Paul tells us of the pre-eminence of the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of the Father. Our Lord Jesus is the beginning (Gk 'archegos') and head of God's new creation and is the firstborn (Jesus firstborn by birth, death and resurrection) of that creation; the firstborn from the dead to be raised to eternal life. Verses 24-29 tell of Paul's suffering for all Gentile believers, that he might share and participate in the sufferings of Christ (as part of his body, which we, the ecclesia are). In verse 27 we have the key verse and theme of the book, "Christ in you (i.e. each of us) the hope of glory".Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

Follow me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I share daily reminders to pray for China.You can also email me anytime @ bfwesten at gmail dot com. Last but not least, to learn more about our strategic prayer and missions projects or to get one of my missionary biographies, visit PrayGiveGo.us! Welcome to this episode of the “Prison Pulpit” on the China Compass podcast on the Fight Laugh Feast network! I'm your China travel guide, Missionary Ben, recording today from the foot of Mt. Ida in Turkey! Since I’m still in Turkey today, and just down the road from the ancient port of Troas, which we visited yesterday, I want to meditate once more on some of Paul's words from prison, especially his words to Timothy in 2nd Timothy, his final letter in the New Testament: 2 Timothy 1:2-12, 15-18: To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. [3] I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. [4] As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy. [5] I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. [6] For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, [7] for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. [8] Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, [9] who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, [10] and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, [11] for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, [12] which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me. . . [15] You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes. [16] May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, [17] but when he arrived in Rome he searched for me earnestly and found me— [18] may the Lord grant him to find mercy from the Lord on that day!—and you well know all the service he rendered at Ephesus. 2 Timothy 2:3-10: [3] Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. [4] No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. [5] An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. [6] It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops. [7] Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. [8] Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel, [9] for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound! [10] Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. 2 Timothy 3:10-13: [10] You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, [11] my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me. [12] Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, [13] while evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 2 Timothy 4:6-18: [6] For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. [7] I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. [8] Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. [9] Do your best to come to me soon. [10] For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica. Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. [11] Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry. [12] Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. [13] When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments. [14] Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. [15] Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our message. [16] At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! [17] But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. [18] The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen. John Piper on the What Paul Left in Troas https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/the-sadness-and-beauty-of-pauls-final-words Follow China Compass Subscribe to China Compass wherever you get your podcasts. Follow me on X (@chinaadventures), check out our website (PrayGiveGo.us) and email anytime @ (bfwesten at gmail dot com). Hebrews 13:3!

I'm excited about the meaning of the resurrection in my life! A friend asked me to send him a sexy picture. What should I do? What is replacement theology? What is the truth about Jews and Gentiles and the church?

This episode is one of Pastor Jack Abeelen's recent radio broadcasts. Pastor Jack's teachings are broadcast every weekday on over 400 radio stations across the country.The Growing Thru Grace radio broadcast is an outreach of Morningstar Christian Chapel in Whittier, California.To see more of Pastor Jack's Bible studies, visit our Morningstar Christian Chapel channel at https://www.youtube.com/@morningstarcc.To subscribe to our Podcast newsletter go to http://eepurl.com/iGzsP6.If you would like to support our electronic ministry, you may do so by going to our donations page at https://morningstarcc.churchcenter.com/giving/to/podcast.Visit our church website at https://morningstarcc.org.

Jews for Jesus helps Jewish people come to know Jesus, the Jewish Messiah. What's fascinating is how Jews for Jesus has not only remained committed to that mission of sharing the hope of the Jewish Messiah, but has also adapted as the world around it has changed. As ministry leaders, we face the tension between time-honored tradition and the need for fresh approaches—and the story of Jews for Jesus offers some compelling lessons in adaptive leadership.In this episode, Aaron Abramson, CEO of Jews for Jesus and author of Mission Design, shares how Jews for Jesus has reimagined its strategies for sharing the gospel, as well as how leaders can cultivate a posture of learning and flexibility without compromising core convictions.  THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Jews for Jesus began as a movement to share the gospel with Jewish people, focusing on presenting the message in accessible and relevant ways.Aaron Abramson clarifies that believing in Jesus as the Messiah does not require abandoning Jewish identity.The earliest followers of Jesus were Jewish, and the concept of Gentiles joining Jesus was initially controversial in the early church.Markus Watson asks Aaron Abramson to share his own journey of faith and what led him to believe in Jesus as the Messiah.Religious and cultural barriers often make it challenging for Jewish people to consider faith in Jesus.Jews for Jesus historically used bold street evangelism, including handing out creative broadsides and literature on college campuses.Aaron Abramson observes that the primary strategy for evangelism shifted as cultural contexts and modes of communication changed.The rise of digital communication made traditional street evangelism less effective for connecting with Jewish people.Aaron Abramson describes pivoting to a process of empathetic listening and learning from the communities he was trying to reach.Teams at Jews for Jesus began to adopt audience-centric communication, tailoring their approach for different Jewish communities and subgroups.Aaron Abramson explains the development of new outreach models, such as setting up coffee shops and arts ministries as relational spaces.Ministry teams use design thinking, prototyping, and iteration to refine new strategies and measure their impact.Changing methodologies and staying adaptive allow Jews for Jesus to remain effective in reaching diverse Jewish audiences.Markus Watson highlights the importance of continually learning and adapting, affirming that keeping a posture of learning leads to meaningful change.RELEVANT RESOURCES AND LINKS:Jews for Jesus website“So Be It” Youtube channelBooks mentioned:Mission Design, by Aaron AbramasonCenter Church, by Tim KellerRelated episodes:187: Tackling Adaptive Challenges in Church Leadership, with Angie Ward264: Building a Future-Focused Church, with Kara Powell, Jake Mulder, and Raymond ChSend me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Get Becoming Leaders of Shalom for free HERE.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

The Wilderness E11 — After his death and resurrection, Jesus sends his disciples out into the world to share the good news of the Kingdom and make disciples. These disciples, also known as apostles, plant churches across the Roman Empire and write letters to congregations made up of Jewish and Gentile believers. And their letters often wrestle with the tension of living in the new age of Jesus' reign while also living in the old age of idolatry, corruption, and injustice. To talk about the overlap of these two ages, the apostles use a familiar metaphor: the wilderness. In this final episode of the series, Jon and Tim discuss how the New Testament authors use wilderness imagery to encourage and warn followers of Jesus to stay close to their good shepherd through the danger and deception of this present age.View all of our resources for The Wilderness →CHAPTERSThe Wilderness Pattern in 1 Corinthians 10 (0:00-27:00)The Wilderness Warnings in 1 Corinthians 3 and 5  (27:00-37:08)More Wilderness Warnings in Hebrews 3-4 (37:08-52:43)Concluding Thoughts on the Wilderness (52:43-1:00:21)OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPTView this episode's official transcript.REFERENCED RESOURCESFirst Corinthians: Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching by Richard B. HaysEchoes of Scripture in the Letters of Paul by Richard B. HaysThe Great Divorce by C. S. Lewis In chapter 1, Tim mentions our video Eternal Life, which you watch here.You can view annotations for this episode—plus our entire library of videos, podcasts, articles, and classes—in the BibleProject app, available for Android and iOS.Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books here.SHOW MUSIC“familydinner” by Lofi Sunday, Cassidy Godwin“Cruise” by Lofi Sunday, Just Derrick“Silver N Gold” by Lofi Sunday, Yoni CharisBibleProject theme song by TENTSSHOW CREDITSProduction of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who also edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty does our show notes, and Hannah Woo provides the annotations for our app. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a textStart with the ice. A husband crawls across a frozen river, terrified the surface won't hold—until a wagon thunders past and proves the ice is strong. That turn from fear to confidence becomes our map for understanding faith: assurance rises when the object is trustworthy. We explore why the cross of Christ is not just strong enough to bear the weight of our souls, but also powerful enough to dismantle what keeps us from real life with God.Together we trace Paul's logic in Romans 3 and Philippians 3 to show how the cross destroys pride, prejudice, and presumption. Boasting collapses because righteousness is received, not earned; the only safe brag is Jesus. Prejudice fades because there is one God and one way—by faith—for both Jew and Gentile, for every culture and class. We revisit Jonah to expose our tendency to fence in God's grace and to fear the wrong people. Then we tackle a hard question: does salvation by grace cancel the law? Not a chance. The cross upholds God's holiness and fulfills the law's verdict by providing a perfect Substitute. No curves, no partial credit, no passing grade for sincerity—only Christ standing in our place, crediting us with a righteousness we could never produce.This conversation moves from story to Scripture to practice: how confidence in Christ reshapes behavior, how worship replaces self-congratulation, and how a church freed from targeting and tribalism becomes a living sign of the gospel's reach. If you've wrestled with assurance, struggled with bias, or wondered how grace and holiness fit together, you'll find clarity, conviction, and hope here. We end not by praising our faith, but by praising our Savior—the Lamb who is worthy, the Mighty God who holds.If this encouraged you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a review to help others find these conversations.Support the showStephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback