Podcasts about gentiles

Why is the gospel bigger than we often imagine? In this episode of Light + Truth, John Piper turns to Ephesians 1:8–10 to show how Christ's work unites Jews and Gentiles in one redeemed people.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Proverbs 13-15; Romans 11 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to another episode of the Daily Radio Bible! Join your host, Hunter, as we journey through Day 151 of our trip through the Bible. Today, we continue in Proverbs, chapters 13 through 15, where wisdom for daily living abounds—from guarding our words and embracing discipline, to the value of humility and the power of a gentle answer. Then, we turn to Romans 11, as Paul dives into the mystery of God's grace—free and undeserved—for both Jews and Gentiles alike. Through readings, reflection, and heartfelt prayer, this episode invites us to rest in God's boundless mercy, trust in His wisdom, and remember one thing above all: you are loved. Settle in for encouragement, reflection, and the daily strength found in God's word. TODAY'S DEVOTION: It is what it is—and what it is, is grace. As Paul writes in Romans 11, God's grace is free and undeserved, offered to Jew and Gentile alike. In verse 6, he puts it plainly: “And since it is through God's kindness, then it is not through their good works. For in that case, God's grace would not be what it really is, free and undeserved.” We keep returning to this good news: there is enough love to go around for everyone, enough grace for all people, from every tribe and nation. God's mercy is deeper, wider, and higher than we can begin to comprehend. Paul exclaims, “Oh, how great are God's riches and wisdom and knowledge. How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways.” We may not be able to make sense of it all, but the mystery is this: God's mercy is poured out on all—despite our failures and disobedience, despite whether we think we are deserving. His grace is not dependent on our goodness, but rooted deeply in his own loving character. So what are we to do with this wondrous, boundless mercy? Paul's invitation, and the call of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation, is to trust in what God has done for us. It's about him—about his saving work, his unending love. We are invited to live in him, to let his grace transform us, to move forward each day in the light of his boundless love and mercy. That is my prayer for myself: to be shaped by this grace, to remember that it is not my effort, but God's love that sustains me. It's my prayer for my family, for my wife and children. And it's my prayer for you today—may you rest secure in the truth that you are loved. God's mercy is enough, God's grace is sufficient, and in him we find our hope. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Loving god, you have knit us together in the body of Christ from every nation and tongue. Make us a vessel of your peace today. Make us a vessel of your peace today. Where hatred stirs, let us bear your love. Where wounds run deep, let us be agents of pardon. Where fear grips hearts, may we speak faith. Where sorrow hangs heavy, may we carry joy. Teach us to listen more than we speak, to understand before we are understood, to love. For in surrender, we find abundance. In mercy, we discover grace. And in dying, we rise into your life. In the name of Jesus. Amen. And now as our Lord has taught us, we are bold to pray. Our father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever and ever. Amen. OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 15 “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” These words from Jewish believers create significant dissension among the brethren. Paul and Barnabas travel to Jerusalem to discuss the issue with the apostles and elders there. Peter announces that salvation comes through faith and recounts how God bestowed the Holy Spirit upon Cornelius. Paul and Barnabas contribute by sharing stories of the salvation of Gentiles during their recent journey. In no case was circumcision required for salvation. James quotes the Old Testament to indicate God's plan to include Gentiles. Everyone involved agrees that no such burden should be placed upon new believers. A letter is written and sent to the church in Antioch. Afterward, Paul and Barnabas have a disagreement and embark upon missionary journeys separately.    Even among believers, conflicts can arise. Often, people impose their beliefs on others, leading to division. The key to resolution is communication and a willingness to seek the workings and word of God. With open hearts, the truth about salvation can be discovered and shared. God could have revealed that circumcision was unnecessary. Instead, He expected them to study, show patience and kindness, and learn together. God expects the same from us today. We can explore the liberties and restrictions of God in unity. The story at the end of the chapter involving Paul, Barnabas, and Mark illustrates how disagreements can lead to temporary separation. Yet, they continue their work as brothers and are united in the years that follow.  Loving God, soften our hearts to love one another. So many Christians have been divided over issues that should not have come between them. Help us learn to listen closely, to speak thoughtfully, and to study scripture together with unbiased and inquisitive minds. It is a blessing to see the gathering in Jerusalem unify in acknowledging the liberties among them and coming up with needful restrictions. Grant us the wisdom to reach conclusions together that align with Your will. Father, we sometimes face disagreements and separate for periods of time. Please humble our hearts to come together in love quickly. Thought Questions: -       Should brethren be careful in declaring certain conditions for salvation? Why is it crucial to explain your convictions clearly from scripture? -       Why is it valuable to gather with other students of the word when deciding issues related to salvation or the future of local churches? -       Barnabas defends John Mark in much the same way as he did Paul in chapter 9. Are you an encourager who often defends

This is the mystery that truly puts us in the minority. Even the politically conservative pundits are starting to turn against Israel joining the pastors and Christians that have been cursing the nation for over a century now. What is the fulness of the Gentiles and how does it play a part in this mystery?

Dr. J. Vernon McGee says that in only four short chapters, the book of Jonah deals with six significant subjects: Jesus' resurrection and salvation (not by works); God's purposes, faithfulness, goodness, and grace. He is the God of the Gentiles!

In the original languages of Hebrew and Greek, the meaning of the word ‘repentance' is fundamentally the same: to turn around, or to turn back. Being a vital element of a relationship with the Creator, Elohim grants the gift of repentance to those He chooses. Within that gift of repentance is a sense of remorse and regret. When repentance is from a sincere heart, the relationship is restored.Rabbi Steve Berkson teaches the deep and sometimes hidden meaning of repentance and all it involves.• Opener• Review• Ephesians 2:1-3 – Seeing yourself correctly• Ephesians 2:4-7 – Alive together with Messiah• Ephesians 2:8-9 – Saved through no effort of your own• Ephesians 2:10 – We were created to do good works• Ephesians 2:11-12 – We were Gentiles, without Messiah• These have nothing to do with Messiah?• Those who are still dead in trespasses • Ephesians 2:13 – We've been brought near by the blood of Messiah • Ephesians 2:14-16 – Both groups are now made one • The Torah's the enemy?• Ephesians 2:17 – Messiah came to make peace • Ephesians 2:18-22 – We are now fellow citizens with the set-apart ones • Matthew 3:3 – This is the path back • Matthew 3:7-8 – Fruits worthy of repentance? • Matthew 3:11-12 – Baptized with the Spirit and Fire? Listen to the Afterburn tomorrowSubscribe to take advantage of new content every week.To learn more about MTOI, visit our website, https://mtoi.org.https://www.facebook.com/mtoiworldwide https://www.instagram.com/mtoi_worldwidehttps://www.tiktok.com/@mtoi_worldwide You can contact MTOI by emailing us at admin@mtoi.org or calling 423-250-3020. Join us for Shabbat Services and Torah Study LIVE, streamed on our website, mtoi.org, YouTube, and Rumble every Saturday at 1:15 p.m. and every Friday for Torah Study Live Stream at 7:30 p.m. Eastern time.

Inspired by a friend's question, today we're exploring the complex concept of "the Kingdom of God." Reflecting on Matthew 6:31-34, Dot and Cara unpack the biblical meaning and implications of God's kingdom—both here and now, and in the future. Grab a cup of coffee and learn what it looks like to seek the Kingdom of God with us.Got a question about today's episode or something else you'd like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Matthew 6:31-34 (0:13)What does the phrase “kingdom of God” mean? (3:38)The Kingdom of God was in the past, it can be in the present, and it will be in the future (9:49)We need to seek the things that matter to our King (12:36)We have a King who promises to take care of us (16:15)We can live victoriously in this present world because we have the King's power (24:30)What does it look like practically to live out the Kingdom? (25:48)Through the Holy Spirit, the Kingdom exists in our lives (28:48)The Kingdom of God is when we allow our lives to be under the authority of Christ (32:00)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse: Matthew 6:31-34 (ESV) “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?' or ‘What shall we drink?' or ‘What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”

Jesus' Command to Love: The Hardest and Holiest Calling Jesus gives us His commandment to “love one another,” . . . . . . emphasizing that true love, as exemplified by Jesus, is the most difficult yet most essential commandment. Rather than focusing on religious rituals like daily prayer or tithing, Jesus calls for radical, sacrificial love modeled after his own. The Homily underscores that love is only possible through the Holy Spirit and involves humility, equality, and self-giving. The Early Church It also recounts the early Church's struggle with integrating Gentile believers, particularly at the Council of Jerusalem, where leaders chose not to impose the full burden of Jewish law on Gentile converts . . . except out of love and respect for others' consciences. The Church's journey through subsequent theological disputes (e.g., Jesus' divinity and nature) illustrates that doctrinal clarity often takes centuries, but division still persists today between “conservatives” and “progressives.” The Homily calls for unity in the Church through love empowered by the Holy Spirit, rather than through labels or legalism Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to: Jesus' Command to Love: The Hardest and Holiest Calling ----------------------------------------------------------------- Maestà : Italian Artist: Duccio: ( 1311) Jesus giving the Farewell Discourse to his eleven remaining disciples after the Last Supper, croed image from the Maestà by Duccio, c. 1311 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: John 15: 12-17 First Reading: Acts 15: 22-31 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Quote From the Homily And yet love is possible only because of the spirit. He says to us, how do we love one another? Look at me the way I have loved you.

"As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved. And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God. Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved: For he will finish the work, and cut it short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord make upon the earth. And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha." Romans 9:25-29

AJ Gentile is the creator and host of "The Why Files."www.thewhyfiles.com Visit www.squarespace.com/ROGAN to save 10% off your first purchase of a website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Weneed to remember that this what we call Passion Week. Jesus rides intoJerusalem on Sunday morning, and the people cheer Him, celebrate Him, andbelieve that possibly He is the Messiah who has come to rescue them from theRomans. Jesus sees the city and weeps because He knows they will truly rejectHim. Then He goes into the temple according Mark 11:11, “And Jesus went intoJerusalem and into the temple. So when He had looked around at all things, asthe hour was already late, He went out to Bethany with the twelve.” Didyou notice that it says that after Jesus rode into Jerusalem, He went into thetemple, and when He had looked upon all these things, as the hour was alreadylate, He went out to Bethany with the twelve. Also in Mark 11:12, we are told, “Thenext day, they went out from Bethany, and He was hungry.” So, on Sunday,He's in Jerusalem, they're cheering Him, He weeps, makes His proclamation aboutthings to come, and then goes to Bethany, where He spends the night. The nextmorning, He goes back to Jerusalem, and that's when He goes to the temple, asyou see here. So we conclude that the event that takes place where Jesus iscleansing the temple for the second time is on Monday of Passion Week. WhenJesus comes to the temple on Monday morning, He must have gone first into theCourt of the Gentiles, the only place where pagan Gentiles are welcome to comeinto the temple area, which is outside the main temple area. This is the placewhere the Jews are supposed to be doing evangelism, witnessing to theseGentiles, and telling them that God is the one and true God and can only be knownby faith. But instead, the chief priests, priests, and many of the Levites haveturned it into a den of thieves. They've turned it into a place where they'reselling goods and sacrifices to people who have come from other lands.  Thesepilgrims didn't bring their animals, like pigeons, goats, and sheep for theirsacrifices with them. So, they would have to buy these sacrifices. The chiefpriests and the religious leaders allowed the merchants to set up their littlestores in this area of the court of the Gentiles. This area was being used fora "religious marketplace" where Jews from other lands could exchangemoney and purchase approved sacrifices. The priests managed this business andmade a good profit from it. Jesusgoes into this area and proclaims, “My house shall be called a house ofprayer, but you have made it a den of thieves.” quoting from Isaiah 56:7. InIsaiah 1:11-20, we read the prophesy that people were bringing sacrifices, buttheir hearts are far from God. Jesus said, “This shall be called the house ofprayer,” but you've made it a den of thieves. A den of thieves is the placethieves run to hide from the authorities. They've made the house of prayer,where God wants His people to pray, into a place where they're hiding undertheir religious cloaks to do their business of taking advantage of people.  Insteadof praying for and with the people, they're preying on them. Doesn't that sayso much about religion even today? We run to the place of religion, and therewe hide in our sins, try to act religious, yet at the same time, we're doingthose things with a heart full of sin, not repenting. Our churches, where weshould be praying and seeking the face of God, has become a place where we tryto hide our sins under the cloak of religion. Said to say, our churches havebecome a “den of thieves”.  MayGod help us today to do what Isaiah wrote in Isaiah 1:16-18: "Washyourselves, make yourselves clean; Put away the evil of your doings from beforeMy eyes. Cease to do evil, Learn to do good; Seek justice, Rebuke theoppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow. "Come now, and letus reason together," Says the LORD, "Though your sins are likescarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, Theyshall be as wool.”  

Ephesians 2:11-12. Before Christ, the nations were hopeless because they had no Messiah and no real, solid hope for the future. Because of this, sin reigned and darkness increased in these nations. We too were lost. Those who had no Jewish lineage were cut off from God's promises. Ephesians 2:13-14a. Christ has brought us near to God. He is our peace and the source of our hope. Ephesians 2:14b-16. Christ has made something entirely different out of the two groups. He did this through his death on the cross. His body dying gave life to us gentiles and Jews in God. He destroyed the hostility between the two groups. He did this by freeing us from the law of Moses and its commandments. He gave us a new identity in him in a new covenant apart from the law. Ephesians 2:17-18. Jesus preached to Jews and gentiles alike while he was on the earth but integrally after he left through his followers. He gave access to God to all who believe both Jews and gentiles. Ephesians 2:19-21. Gentiles are fellow partakers of the promises of God. This was something planned long ago and was built upon the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ being the chief cornerstone. Ephesians 2:21-22. In Christ, we are the new temple of God. We are being built into something new, God's new temple on earth. God dwells in human hearts, especially when we gather together in the name of Jesus Christ.The post Ephesians 4: From Strangers to Citizens first appeared on Living Hope.

Monday, 26 May 2025   But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; Matthew 10:19   “And when they should deliver you, not you should be disquieted how or what you should say. It will be given for you in that hour what you should say” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus informed the apostles that they would be brought before officials as a testimony to them and the Gentiles. He now continues with, “And when they should deliver you.”   This is referring to the act of taking these apostles to the forum where the leaders just mentioned sat, be it in a proconsul office or a speech to kings and others, such as occurred with Paul in Acts when he addressed Festus, Agrippa, and others. They would be taken before these men and asked to state their words concerning Jesus. At such a time, Jesus says, “not you should be disquieted how or what you should say.”   Jesus uses the same word, merimnaó, that He used 6 times in Chapter 6 to alleviate the concerns of the disciples, and by extension, the others who attended the Sermon on the Mount concerning various issues. The word gives the sense of being over-anxious.   The apostles, as they went forth, were not to be in such a state because, as Jesus next says, “It will be given for you in that hour what you should say.”   The meaning is that until that point, they may be curious about what they will say as a witness, but that curiosity shouldn't concern them. Rather at that very hour, when they are brought forward to speak, they will be given words suitable to the situation. The next verse will explain why Jesus says this to them.   Life application: Of the words of this verse, Cambridge says –   “Curiously enough this has been quoted as if it justified want of preparation for sermons or addresses to a Christian congregation.”   The words “curiously enough” indicate that the commentator understood that such a thought is nonsense. And yet, these words of Jesus are cited quite often by people as they claim they will be inspired by the Spirit to speak.   There is nothing to suggest that this is the case, and a proper understanding and application of context will tell the student of the Bible that such is not the case. This is especially to be considered true because a large majority of Christians don't know the Bible very well. They may not know sound doctrine at all.   If this is so, why would the Spirit of the Father work through people with opposing viewpoints on theology to make their case through leaders today? Rather, we have the Bible. It is our responsibility to learn it and then tell what we know as best we can to those who ask. This is why Peter says –   “And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness' sake, you are blessed. ‘And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.' 15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 16 having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. 17 For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.” 1 Peter 3:13-17   Peter did not tell his hearers that they would be given words at a particular time concerning what to say. And Peter knew better than most that proper doctrine counts. His epistle came after his rebuke from Paul for not holding to sound doctrine, as is recorded in Galatians 2.   We are given brains to use. If we fail to use them in studying theology, we will not know proper theology. God is not going to bail us out when we stand before others, having failed to do our best to learn what His word says. Jesus' words are given in a particular context for a particular reason. Let us remember this and keep things in their proper context!   Lord God, it is true that Your word is big and complicated. It requires a lot of time and difficult thinking to get its almost infinite number of nuances. And so, please be with us as we study and prepare ourselves to present our defense for the hope that is in us. Guide our minds now to prepare so that we will be prepared when needed. Amen.  

Text - Luke 21:24 by John Williams, pastor | Lord's Day Afternoon | 5.25.25

Send us a textWelcome:At first glance, Romans 16 appears to be nothing more than a list of greetings—a roll call of names. But as we dig deeper, we discover this is not just a farewell section or an appendix to Paul's great letter. It is a profound window into the early church, its diversity, its leaders, and the vital role of hospitality, service, and community.Paul's list reads more like a memorial wall—every name etched into eternity with purpose and value. This episode explores why these names matter and what they teach us about true Christian fellowship, the equality of believers, and the heart of a community devoted to Christ.

All Israel will be saved, but for now God is working primarily thru the Gentile church. But as Christ stated in the Gospels, “Salvation is of the Jews” and God has NOT abandoned His chosen people. He will again gather them to Himself in the lasts days.    

Discussion Questions: How is God's foreknowledge different from controlling everyone's moves? React to this statement: God predestined every child of God to grow, being conformed to Christ's image. How is Romans 9:30-31 the summary of everything Paul wants to communicate? In what way does this Romans passage mirror what we saw in Ephesians last week? React to this statement: Paul uses Jacob, Esau, and Pharaoh to defend God's right to do whatever He wants. And now God wants to bring salvation to the Gentiles. How does the Hosea quote in Romans 9:25-26 further expose the true meaning of predestination? Why can the genuine message concerning predestination unite us (rather than divide us) and even offer a cure for racism?

Ever felt like you were called… but stuck in a season of “not yet”? You’re not alone. Whether it’s King David or King Jesus, even God’s greatest waited between their anointing and appointing. But take heart—your “in-between” is never wasted. Key Takeaways You’re Sealed and Claimed – God put His Spirit in you as a guarantee of what’s to come (2 Cor 1:21-22). Anointed ≠ Immediately Appointed – David waited decades; Jesus waited years. Waiting doesn’t mean forgotten. God Doesn’t Rush – He moves in perfect timing (Isaiah 60:22). You’re not behind schedule—you’re being prepared. Your Wait Has a Purpose – David gathered strength and support; Jesus discipled and taught. Your delay is part of your development. Join the Conversation How are you holding onto faith in your waiting season? What has God been refining in you while you wait? Share your reflections using #LifeaudioNetwork. And remember: if He’s anointed you, He will appoint you—right on time.

In today's devotional, Dr. Michael Youssef shows how God is at work on all fronts to bring about His glorious purposes—through us, His people. This devotional is adapted from MY Journal, Leading The Way's monthly devotional magazine. Sign up now for a free six-month subscription to MY Journal—Dr. Youssef's gift to you.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, you can learn more in Dr. Michael Youssef's sermon Look Who Moved Out, Part 5: LISTEN NOW

Acts 13:44-52 44 The next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. 45 But when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what was spoken by Paul, reviling him. 46 And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly, saying, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you. Since you thrust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. 47 For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, “‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles,     that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'” 48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed.49 And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the devout women of high standing and the leading men of the city, stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their district. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them and went to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. Key Words: Jews, Crowds, Boldly, Necessary, Light, Gentiles, Glorifying, Dust Keystone Verse: I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth. (Acts 13:47) Download Bulletin

Sunday May 25, 2025 Main idea: The Gospel reveals the salvation of Gentiles in the same manner as the Jew, hence Jesus ventured into Gentile areas to minister to them and the Gentiles glorified the God of Israel. Text: Mat 15:29-39. for full notes: https://www.cgtruth.org/index.php?proc=msg&sf=vw&tid=3156

John 6:60-71,When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” 61 But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples were grumbling about this, said to them, “Do you take offense at this? 62 Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? 63 It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 64 But there are some of you who do not believe.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning who those were who did not believe, and who it was who would betray him.) 65 And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.”66 After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. 67 So Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?” 68 Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, 69 and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” 70 Jesus answered them, “Did I not choose you, the twelve? And yet one of you is a devil.” 71 He spoke of Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the twelve, was going to betray him. “Here you go, take a look at this.”That's really all I said, but I'll tell you the whole story …Years ago I worked for a Christian resource ministry called Desiring God (it's a ministry we're still connected to and love) — well, back in those days our office was on Franklin Avenue in Minneapolis, and for a short season I worked in the customer service department. My desk was closest to the door right next to the sidewalk, and from time to time if we had a visitor drop in, it was part of my job to greet them.So one day a gentleman came inside and he said that he'd like to discuss how we could all work together to blend several different religions to become one. He said it didn't make any sense for religions to be divided because they all basically ‘believed the same things.' This guy was a seeker, and I wasn't trying to discourage him from that, but I told him that all religions did not believe the same things, and that the Christian gospel is unlike anything else, and as a example, I said “Here you go, take a look at this” … I handed him a book then titled, What Jesus Demands of the World by John Piper — it's a book 50-chapters long, and each chapter focuses on a different command Jesus gives, and I figured that if the guy read some of the things that Jesus actually said, he'd change his mind. Well the guy came back the next week and he was mad. He gave me back the book and said, “I'd like to teach a thing or two to the author of this book!”He had read what Jesus says and he was offended … and I still think about this from time to time, and I wonder: Why exactly was he offended? What part in particular did he not like? And then the bigger, existential question: Why was he offended by what Jesus says and I'm not (or at least not ultimately)?This is the question: Why do some people love Jesus and others don't?You ever thought about that before? Our passage today is all about this. At the end of Chapter 6, the longest chapter in the Gospel of John, we're going to see the human response to what Jesus has said and there are two main lessons we find here — and the relevance of these lessons will become obvious. I think we're gonna be able to see ourselves in this passage, but before we look at the first lesson, let's pray again and ask for God's help.Father, you know better than any of us all the different places we're coming from this morning, and you know what you want to say to us through your word. Would you, in these moments, open our hearts to hear from you? Give us humble hearts to receive the words of your Son, in faith. We ask in Jesus's name, amen.The first thing we learn in this passage …1. Those offended by Jesus are expected.Here at the end of Chapter 6, John narrows the focus from the “crowd” (which he's mentioned four times in this chapter) to now he says “disciples.” But when he uses the word “disciples” here, he's not thinking about the twelve disciples, but he's talking about followers of Jesus more generally. So imagine three categories of people: There's the “crowd,” the broadest number of people who had the miracle lunch (10,000 or more when you count men, women, and children).Then there's “the Twelve” mentioned in verse 67 and 70 (these are the twelve disciples whose names we know; they were closest to Jesus).But then, in the middle, there's who John calls “disciples” — which is less than the crowd but more than the Twelve. Somewhere in-between (these are folks who followed Jesus after the miracle lunch and they've heard all of his teaching in Chapter 6).And according to verse 60, of this middle group, these more generic disciples, “many” of them did not like what Jesus was saying. The collective voice of these disciples is at the end of verse 60. They said:“This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?”They're talking about all that Jesus has been teaching, but especially the part about his flesh and blood, and we know from verse 61 that this was a grumbly statement. Jesus knew they were grumbling. Verse 60 was not a humble, teachable response — they weren't saying, “Jesus, we don't get it, would you help us get it?” — nah, they were frustrated with him — which means they were angry.You Ain't Seen Nothing YetAt the beginning of this chapter these people were well-fed, now they're fed-up, and look what Jesus says to them at the end of verse 61. He says, “Do you take offense at this? Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? …”What Jesus does here is really important. There's a tone I don't want us to miss. So just to make sure, everybody find Jesus's question there at the end of verse 61. I'm gonna read it again. I want you to get it. Find verse 61. That question at the end, Jesus says:“Do you take offense at this?”He's saying: Do you take offense at this, my teaching? Oh you ain't seen nothing yet!Jesus is saying: You think my teaching is difficult. You don't like what I'm saying. Just wait until you see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before!That's verse 62 — now what is Jesus talking about?Well, at one level, Jesus is talking about the final manifestation of his true identity. We know from the start of this Gospel that Jesus is the Word who was in the beginning. Jesus was with God, Jesus is God! — Jesus is God the Son, the one through whom all things were made, and he has all authority over all things, and in his ascension he is going to resume his seat on his throne in glory. That's in view here.But also, on another level in the Gospel of John, the event of Jesus's exaltation — his resurrection and ascension — is combined with the path he takes to get there, which is the path of his cross. So in this Gospel, Jesus being “lifted up,” before it means lifted in glory, it means lifted in shame. Before the ascension of Jesus took him up above the heavens, he was nailed up on a cross. And John, the writer, intends that double meaning of ascension in this Gospel.Tripping Over the TreeSo Jesus, in verse 62, is talking about his cross, and he's arguing here from the lesser to the greater. The cross of Christ is the ultimate scandal. It's the most offensive fact of Jesus — that the Messiah would be crucified! That's outrageous! It's insane! So Jesus is saying: If you can't handle my teaching (lesser), there's no way you're gonna be able to handle my crucifixion (greater). The teaching of Jesus is small beans compared to how he's going to be killed. See, Jesus is explaining in verse 62 — If you're bothered by my sayings, just wait until my sacrifice. If the difficulty of my doctrine undoes you, what about the degradation of my dying? If you're troubled by the truth you'll certainly trip over the tree.And this kind of tripping, this stumbling over the cross, is to be expected. The apostle Paul tells us this, 1 Corinthians 1:21, “It pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles…”The cross of Christ has been the problem for people going on now for two thousand years, and it's still the problem today. In fact, today, there's a lot of people who would at least ‘say' that they like the teachings of Jesus. Now they have his own version of his teaching — they're probably not thinking about the over 20 times he talks about hell — but overall, most people are okay with Jesus as a moral teacher.It is his cross that is offensive. Why? It's because the cross makes a very negative assessment of humanity. Because the first thing the cross says is that we are all sinners who need to be saved. Bad News FirstA few years ago I met a neighbor at a coffee shop and I invited them to our church, and they asked me right away, “Oh, is your church affirming?” Now, they were talking about gender and sexuality issues, but I just told them that our church doesn't affirm anybody — “All are welcome, none are affirmed!” — now I didn't make that up, but that's what I said — none of us are affirmed and that's why Jesus had to die!Jesus didn't come into a world full of people who were doing okay without him. He came into a world of sinners destined for God's wrath and at the cross he says to every single one of us: You are separated from God! You deserve judgment! You are wrong!People don't like to hear that. That's a “hard saying.” And it's so hard to hear that some people can't get past that bad news part to the good news part. But listen to the good news!At the cross, Jesus is not only saying “you're wrong,” he's also saying “You're loved!” You're wrong and you're loved!It's not just that you're so sinful and screwed up that I had to die for you, it's that you're so loved that I willingly died for you.I came to die for you. I pursued the cross for you.Nobody takes my life from me, but I lay it down of my own accord, and I laid it down for you!Look, get this: if we don't know we're sinners, that love means nothing to us. But if you can handle the bad news first — if you can not be offended by the first part — then the second part is the greatest wonder in all the history of the whole world. Jesus Christ really loves you.But many people never get there. It's a fact. We learn here it's expected. We know from Jesus, from Paul, from history — those offended by Jesus are expected.Now, here's the second thing we learn in this passage.2. Those called to Jesus will come and stay.We start to see this in verse 63, and speaking of unpopular teachings of Jesus, this one could be top of the list. Not only are we all sinners, but Jesus says in verse 63:“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all.”In other words, Jesus is saying, You can't save yourself! … You need to be saved but you don't have the power to do anything about it. But Jesus says he does — “The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But there are some of you who do not believe.” John is reminding us in verse 64 that Jesus is fully aware of how everything will play out, but this is a hard saying:You all need to be saved, you can't save yourself, only I can save you, and some of you won't be.Then verse 65 is most clarifying. Jesus explains, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.”Does everybody see that in verse 65? Do you hear what Jesus says? Nobody can come to Jesus unless the Father grants them to come. That's what he says! And oh, we humans don't like that! You mean to tell me that the most ultimate decisive factor in the universe is not my own will but it's God?!Yeah, exactly. That word “granted” in verse 65 means simply to give; and “coming to Jesus” is another way to talk about faith — therefore, Jesus is saying that our faith in him is a gift from God. If any of us has faith in Jesus it's because God gave it to us. And Jesus is just repeating here what he's already said twice in Chapter 6.Verse 37:“All that the Father gives me will come to me…” Verse 44:“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.”Effectual CallingThis is the biblical doctrine that historically has been called “effectual calling.” You hear that? Effectual calling.The 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith has an entire chapter titled “Effectual Calling.” (The same teaching is found in our Leader Affirmation of Faith, see 8.3.) But in the 1689 Confession, Chapter 10, paragraph 1 reads like this: Those whom God hath predestinated unto life, He is pleased in His appointed and accepted time, effectually to call, by His Word and Spirit, out of that state of sin and death in which they are by nature, to grace and salvation by Jesus Christ …Paragraph 4,… [others] not being effectually drawn by the Father, they neither will nor can truly come to Christ, and therefore cannot be saved …And the footnote attached to this sentence says “John 6:65” — that's our verse. Believer in Jesus, this is your story. I don't want to hurt anybody's feelings here, but look, the reason you believe in Jesus is not because you're smarter than people who don't believe. It's not because you're better. It's not because you're lucky.It's because the Father granted you to come. Why are we here this morning? Why am I here? God is why! It's because of God. It's because he chose me before the foundations of the world and in his timing he effectually called me! Paul tells us the same thing again in 1 Corinthians 1. Go back to 1 Corinthians 1:23, … but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.If Jesus Christ is wonderful to you, that is God's doing. He called you. And this is really good news.Look at this — verse 66…You Leaving, Too?After Jesus said verse 65, this middle group of ‘disciples' had enough. Verse 66:“Many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him.”They basically proved his point. And then in verse 67 Jesus looked at “the Twelve” — so this is not the middle group anymore, these are his closest disciples, his chosen Twelve — Jesus looked at them and said,“Do you want to go away as well?”And man, what a question! Do you hear that question? Jesus is gentle and lowly, and he's direct and to-the-point. And as this middle group is thinning out, he says to his Twelve, Y'all leaving too?Christian, Jesus asks that same question to you. I've heard him ask me that. I'm almost 40 years old, which is not old, but I'm old enough to know of too many people who have “turned back and no longer walk with him” … and every time I find out about somebody else, I hear him ask me: You leaving too?You've thought about it. At some point, if it hasn't yet, it's going to cross your mind. Would I — could I — ever want to do life without him? …The answer is No.We answer again and again the way Peter answers here in verse 68. This is Peter's highest moment, in my opinion. It's very similar to his confession of Jesus in Matthew 16. Peter says the right thing here.Called and KeptJesus says,“Do you want to go away as well?”Verse 68,And Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.”Jesus, we're not going anywhere. We know who you are. You're the Messiah! You're the Holy One of God. You're the only one who can give us life.And in Matthew 16, after Peter confesses Jesus as the Messiah, Jesus repeats the same theology there that we see here. He says in Matthew 16, “For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven” (see Matthew 16:17). Jesus says here in verse 70:“Did I not choose you, the Twelve?”So just in case we were to think too highly of Peter (some do) — in case we were to give Peter the credit for his right answer — Jesus reminds us one last time that he's the one at work. He's the chooser. He's the revealer. He's the Savior. And if you're called, you're kept.This is why the call of the Father is such good news. Look: if our faith was something that we could accomplish, it'd also be something we could lose. If we came to Jesus on our own, then we could leave him the same way.God the Father is the reason we come to Jesus, and that is the reason we stay.For Our SecurityJohn mentions Judas again in verse 71 as a reminder that Jesus is sovereign over it all. Jesus is not surprised by anyone who leaves him. He knows those who are truly his — and he's gonna tell us more about this in Chapter 10, but the goal here, like it is there, is not our unsettledness, but our security. Jesus is not teaching us this so that we say, “Oh no, what if I'm not called?” He's teaching us this to assure us that our faith is grounded in a reality much stronger than ourselves. He's giving us a behind-the-scenes look here. It's like he's saying: this is what is going on at headquarters, but your concern is the field-assignment, and that is to believe. Our concern is to come to Jesus and to keep coming to Jesus — that's what we do — and we do it in the confidence that God is working. Those offended by Jesus are expected; those called to Jesus will come and stay — and if you're here this morning there's good reason to believe that you've been called (because you believe in Jesus!) — or you're being called today …The Gospel of John compels me to go here, and to invite you, everybody in the sound of my voice who has not come to Jesus yet, you can come to Jesus today. You can take that step. Verse 37, Jesus says,“All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.”The Father is working. Take the step. Come to Christ! Trust in him! Say to him, from the heart:Jesus, I can't save myself and I'm done trying!You came to save me by dying on the cross and being raised from death!I put my faith in you!That is a prayer of faith, and that's what brings us to the Table. The TableAnd for those of us who have come to Jesus, who trust in Jesus Christ, this morning we can rest in the fact that he's our Savior, not ourselves. He called us, he keeps us, thanks be to God!We receive this bread and cup in that miracle. That's why this Table is for Christians. If you believe in Jesus this morning, we invite you to come to him yet again, and give him thanks!

Message Us!What would you sacrifice to bring someone eternal life?This powerful question frames our exploration of Acts 10, where Peter's journey to Cornelius marks the moment the gospel first intentionally crossed cultural boundaries to reach the Gentile world. The staggering reality is that today, 3.5 billion people have virtually no access to the gospel—not those who've rejected it, but those who've never had the opportunity to hear it.Through Peter and Cornelius' story, we discover the essential framework for global missions: God orchestrates, and believers participate. While God does the heavy lifting of salvation, He invites us into three specific ways of participation—praying, going, and sending.Prayer forms the foundation of all mission work. When we pray for the unreached, for missionaries, and for more laborers, we align our hearts with God's passion that none should perish. True prayer for missions will transform us, breaking our hearts for what breaks God's heart.The call to "go" isn't for everyone, but missions requires absolute obedience, often without knowing all the details. When Peter heard God's call, he wasn't given the full picture—just the next step. Those who answer this call face sacrifice: leaving comfort, security, relationships, and sometimes risking their lives to bring eternal life to others. Is it worth it? As one missionary shared after years of malaria, attempted break-ins, and family separation: "While the joys abound, the challenges are manifold."For those not called to go, sending through generous giving becomes our mission. With missionaries needing $6,700-$10,000+ monthly to serve effectively, our financial support makes their work possible. As two teenagers who walked 100 miles to raise funds for a missionary vehicle said, "We wanted to walk so our missionaries would not have to."The 3.5 billion unreached are not just statistics—they're individuals with names, families, dreams, and eternal souls. How will you respond to reach them? Start a prayer journal. Consider your calling. Give sacrificially. Together, we can bring Christ's hope to every nation, tribe, and tongue.Support the show

Sunday, 25 May 2025   You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. Matthew 10:18   “And also upon governors and kings, you will be brought because of Me for a testimony to them and the Gentiles” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus told his apostles to beware of men because they would deliver them up to councils and scourge them in their synagogues. Continuing with this thought, He next says, “And also upon governors and kings, you will be brought.”   A new word is introduced here, agó, translated as “brought.” It is a primary verb signifying to lead, bring, drive, etc. In this case, it is future tense with a passive voice, thus “you will be brought.”   In the Bible, the word translated as governors includes positions such as proconsuls, procurators, etc. The title of king is one that is seen at times in the NT, such as Peter's being arrested under the authority of King Herod in Acts 12.   The words of Jesus here certainly would have applied to these apostles to some extent later in their ministries, but the majority of the interaction with such positions, as recorded in the Bible, was between Paul and such men. This is because Luke especially followed the life of Paul as he traveled among the Gentiles.   In fact, the name Paul was probably one taken on by him after his meeting with Sergius Paulus, as is recorded in Acts 13. After that encounter, he is never called Saul again, except when quoting past events. From that time forward, he was known as Paul. As for the reason for being brought before them, Jesus next says, “because of Me.”   This was their life calling. They were apostles of Jesus, and He was sending them forth bearing His name. It may be that even during this early period, they would appear before such positions, but there is nothing specifically recorded concerning it. Whenever it did happen, however, it was “for a testimony to them and the Gentiles.”   The stating of two different categories, “them and the Gentiles,” seems to indicate that the testimony was for the leaders to hear and then bring a positive influence for the gospel on those under them. As many of these would be Gentile leaders, this is where their influence would rest.   As such, what appears to be the case is that this is referring to something such as the trial of Paul in Acts 25, where Festus, Agrippa, and others held trial. The testimony concerning Jesus was to both Jews and Gentiles there, as it was in other situations Paul found himself in. But Paul, like the other apostles, knew in advance this would be the case –   “Then Ananias answered, ‘Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.' 15 But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake.'” Acts 9:13-16   The words tend to give weight to the thought that while Israel was rejecting the gospel, the Gentiles would begin to be receptive to it.   Life application: The words thus far are intended to show that Israel was given every opportunity to accept Jesus as their Messiah. The testimony to foreign positions of authority and foreigners was actually a part of this. Jesus spoke concerning the sign of Jonah, meaning his preaching.   Jonah said that in forty days, Nineveh was to be destroyed. In the Bible, the often-seen application of such a statement as this is a day for a year. In other words, when Jesus said that the sign of Jonah would be given to them, He was saying that they had forty years to acknowledge Him.   The witness to Gentiles was intended, even from the beginning, to get Israel to see this and turn to Him –   “For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. 26 And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: ‘The Deliverer will come out of Zion, And He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob; 27 For this is My covenant with them, When I take away their sins.'” Romans 9:25-27   Paul wrote this during that forty-year period, and from other passages in the New Testament, it seems that it was believed that this blindness would quickly be replaced with sight, the kingdom would be ushered in, and Jesus' return would have taken place.   And yet, we are still waiting for this to take place two thousand years later. Jesus' plan is being worked out, and His church continues to be built. Israel was destroyed, they were exiled, having rejected Jesus, but they will be spiritually restored to usher in the promised millennial kingdom. Their regathering at this time is for this purpose.   They will go through the purification of the tribulation period along with the rest of the world, but they will be saved through it. God's promises will never fail. Let us trust in this and be confident that everything promised will come about as prophesied.   Lord God, there are times in the past when we have misunderstood Your word. Maybe that is still the case today. There may be a long haul before the return of Jesus comes about. All we can do is wait patiently and continue to faithfully proclaim Your word until then. However, it is our desire to see Him really soon! May You speed His coming. How we long to see Jesus. Amen.

The sermon focuses on Paul's imprisonment and his unique calling to preach to the Gentiles, as described in Ephesians 3. The pastor explains how Paul reveals the mystery that Gentiles can now come directly to God through Jesus Christ, without first becoming Jewish - a concept that was revolutionary at the time. The sermon also explores how God often calls people to serve in unexpected ways, as demonstrated by sending Peter to the Jews and Paul to the Gentiles, despite their backgrounds suggesting the opposite assignments would have made more sense. Key Verses Ephesians 3:1-7 1 Kings 19:11-13 Acts 13:2

Saturday, 24 May 2025   But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. Matthew 10:17   “And you caution from the men. For they will deliver you to the councils, and in their synagogues they will flog you” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus told the apostles that they were being sent out as sheep in the midst of wolves. He now begins to explain who these wolves are, beginning with, “And you caution from the men.” He uses the same word and conveys the same idea as what He said about the false prophets in Matthew 7:15 –   “And you caution from the false prophets who – they come to you in clothes of sheep, and inwardly they are wolves – rapacious.”   Just as the false prophets were there to destroy those who carried the true message of Christ, there would be people resistant to their message in the towns and cities they would visit. Understanding this, He continues with, “For they will deliver you to the councils.”   The word here is the same first seen in Matthew 5:22 sunedrion, a sanhedrin or council. This is plural, and so it is not referring to the main Sanhedrin, but a lower set of councils or courts located in the provinces and probably connected to the synagogues. The word signifies a sitting together. Thus, it is a council of men gathered for a set purpose. He also says, “and in their synagogues.”   The word has also been seen already. It is a designation for a solemn Jewish religious assembly. Strong's says of this word, “by analogy, a Christian church.” Depending on what he is talking about, this may be incorrect. The word is used in the gospels and Acts, always when referring to a gathering of the Jews. It is only again mentioned in James 2:2 and Revelation 2:9 and 3:9. Each of those instances refers only to a Jewish gathering.   It may be a Christian meeting, but only in the sense of Jewish Christians, such as today's messianic Jews. It is not a term used in the Bible to describe a gathering of Gentiles. Finally, Jesus says of what will occur there, “they will flog you.”   This is a new word, mastigoó, to flog. It is referring to the law of Moses and what is allowed as punishment for transgressors –   “If there is a dispute between men, and they come to court, that the judges may judge them, and they justify the righteous and condemn the wicked, 2 then it shall be, if the wicked man deserves to be beaten, that the judge will cause him to lie down and be beaten in his presence, according to his guilt, with a certain number of blows. 3 Forty blows he may give him and no more, lest he should exceed this and beat him with many blows above these, and your brother be humiliated in your sight.” Deuteronomy 25:1-3   Jesus is warning His apostles that this is what they can expect when proclaiming the good news within the land of Israel at this time. Paul refers to this in his second letter to the Corinthians –   “From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one.” 2 Corinthians 11:24   Life application: Notice the common denominator in the words of Jesus, the type of gatherings described, the words of Paul, and the context of “who and what” concerning what is stated. It is all about the apostles' evangelization of the Jews within the land of Israel at this time. Even if Jesus' words may extend beyond that, though, in the coming verses, the context here excludes Gentiles entirely.   In other words, these words cannot be later applied to the Gentile-led church or Gentiles in general. They only refer to what will come upon Jesus' Jewish apostles in their ministry to the people of Israel.   Paying attention to, as well as maintaining, proper context reveals this truth. Therefore, if you hear a sermon or teaching on these verses that are then applied to you personally or the church in general, you will know that the instructor has not properly considered the context.   A sermon or teaching on these verses should be for reference and instruction concerning the apostles' interaction with their people, Israel. Going beyond that will lead those instructed to a false understanding of what Jesus is instructing.   Lord God, it is true that any believer who is willing to proclaim the truth of Jesus may be persecuted for that proclamation, but help us not to use verses that are not intended for us concerning this to justify that it is so. Instead, help us to rightly divide and consider Your word. Amen.

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 11 Peter returns to Jerusalem, where Jewish believers take issue with him for associating with Gentiles. He recounts his vision of unclean animals and God's command not to call impure what He has made clean. Peter reveals how the Holy Spirit descended on the Gentiles, confirming that God has granted them the repentance that leads to life. Meanwhile, some scattered Jewish believers begin preaching to Greeks in Antioch, and many turn to the Lord. The church in Jerusalem sends Barnabas to Antioch to encourage the new saints, and he ultimately recruits Saul, working with the church there for a year. Disciples of Jesus are first called Christians in Antioch. These disciples hear of a famine in Judea and send funds for the relief of the brethren, which Barnabas and Saul deliver.  Peter introduced something new to the saints in Jerusalem, and they were not initially receptive. However, they were willing to listen as he shared how God brought salvation to the Gentiles. Change is always challenging, especially when it means acceptance of others, but humble hearts will keep open ears and learn to embrace what honors the will of God. Fortunately, this paved the way for more Jews to share the gospel with Gentiles, allowing the church to thrive and expand. Perhaps changing attitudes toward others and a willingness to broaden outreach can benefit local churches today. Ironically, Gentile Christians in Antioch sent funds to assist needy Jewish saints. A thriving fellowship emerges when brethren step beyond their comfort zones.  Compassionate God, thank You for granting us repentance that leads to life. We are unworthy of Your grace, yet we live in the peace and joy of reconciliation with You through Jesus Christ. Please open our hearts to the way You are working to reach others and prepare us to have open arms. Help us to be like Barnabas, a man full of the Holy Spirit and faith and therefore ready to work for Your cause. And like the Christians who sent funds to help their brothers, teach us how to be more generous and involved in supporting fellow believers.  Thought Questions: -       How do you remain open to God's will, even when it challenges your expectations and traditions, like when Peter accepted Gentiles?  -       If God sent you to go and encourage new saints for a year, would you be willing to do it? How can you do such work where you live now? -       New Christians sent funds to help believers they did not even know. How should you emulate that in the way you support needy Christians?

The Apostles communicate their decision to the Gentile communities regarding the essential requirements for living the Christian faith. (Lectionary #289) May 23, 2025 - Cathedral Rector - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com  

2 sections- various laws regarding the ownership of a non-Jew in an item (bechor, challa, chametz), requirement to destroy chametz before traveling dependant on closeness and intent to return on Pesach

2 sections- various laws regarding the ownership of a non-Jew in an item (bechor, challa, chametz), requirement to destroy chametz before traveling dependant on closeness and intent to return on Pesach

Daily Dose of Hope May 23, 2025 Day 5 of Week 8   Scripture - Matthew 4:12-25   Prayer:  Holy God, We come to you today with expectancy.  We need to hear your voice.  We need to feel your presence.  Lord Jesus, we know that we are weak.  Our lives are incomplete and empty without you.  Our world is nothing without you.  Help us go through this day remembering that we belong to you.  With your Spirit in us, we have power.  With your Spirit in us, we can be bold and courageous.  We give you our day, Lord.  Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a Deep Dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Happy Friday, everyone!  Today, we are finishing up Matthew, chapter 4.    Jesus' public ministry begins after his time in the wilderness and after the arrest of John the Baptist.  We don't know how Jesus felt about John's arrest, as Matthew doesn't give us that information, but we know they were first cousins and may have been close.  We also know that John's arrest foreshadows Jesus' own.   The Scripture for today says that Jesus moves from Nazareth to Capernaum.  Could it have been John's imprisonment that led Jesus to move?  We don't really know.  Capernaum was a fishing town on the Sea of Galilee and it becomes Jesus' base of operations.  It's strategic location also allowed Jesus to reach a wider audience and travel more easily.  Matthew points out that what Jesus was doing was also a fulfillment of prophecy from Isaiah 9.  Remember, Matthew is weaving in this theme of Jesus as the Messiah from the line of David, the one who the Jews have been waiting for.    Next, Jesus begins to call his first disciples.  I think it's hard for us to imagine how abruptly these four men responded to Jesus.  While there was probably more back story here that we aren't privy to, the reality is that they left everything to follow Jesus.  They left all human sources of security, all human goals and aspirations to respond to a call by God.  They left their jobs and probably their families to respond to a call, and did so as far as we can tell, without hesitation or doubt.   Could we do the same?  God calls each and every one of us but we still hold on to various aspects of the world.  How often do we fully and completely let go of everything to simply follow Jesus?  This is the demand of the kingdom of God–turn away from the kingdom of the world and give all to a bigger, deeper purpose.  Stop worrying so much about fishing for money, power, or admiration and simply fish for people.  We may live 2000 years later but this is our mission and call as well.  Do you believe this?  Are you ready to say yes?   It's right after this that Jesus begins his ministry.  He travels around the region to heal the sick and proclaims the Kingdom of God.  He preached in synagogues too.  But all kinds of people followed Jesus.  It says those from Syria, Judea, Jerusalem, and even the Decapolis (those would have been the pagans), brought their sick to Jesus and then followed him.  That means very early on, there were both Jews and Gentiles who were getting a picture of God's Kingdom.  Very early on, Jesus was crossing boundaries.    Let's end by talking a bit about the Kingdom.  What does it mean that Jesus was proclaiming the Kingdom of God?  This is actually a really important point.  Bear with me here, because I'm going to go back a bit.  God's mission from the beginning was to redeem his world and restore it to its intended purpose.   We see throughout scripture how God's plan unfolds. First, he pours himself into the nation of Israel, revealing his character, shaping a new kind of people. But, if you've read the Old Testament, you know what happens. Israel repeatedly disobeys God and eventually rebels against God until there is no turning back. And just when we think all is lost, God speaks through the prophets and the next part of his mission begins to unfold. He says, “It may seem like things are hopeless now but they aren't because someday, I'm going to send someone who will restore the people of Israel to me. This person will be a light to the Gentiles, and will bring my salvation to the ends of the earth and it will be obvious once more that your God reigns.” Then, 600 years after that prophecy in Isaiah, in God's perfect timing, his mission becomes more full and complete through the person of Jesus Christ who fulfilled this promise of reconciliation and “making things right again.”   Central to Jesus' ministry was the announcement of God's reign, that God's Kingdom was here. Think about Mark 1:15, Jesus says, “The time promised by God has come at last!” In Luke 4, we read that Jesus announces, “The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!” and then later in that same chapter, “I must proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.” Because that is why he was sent - to proclaim the GOOD NEWS of the Kingdom of God.    So what is the Kingdom of God?  Sorry it took me so long to get here. The Kingdom of God is anywhere that God reigns and his values are at work, anywhere where the world is working in the way that God always intended it to work. This means the Kingdom of God is present when values like justice, mercy, forgiveness, hope for the poor and oppressed, compassion, righteousness, are lived out by God's people.   What Jesus was saying, and I want you to understand how radical and revolutionary this was at the time, is that the Kingdom of God is here. He was saying that he represents the Kingdom. He represents a new way of doing life, a new way of being human, a way of doing life that demonstrates the reign of God. And so everything he does–all his miracles, all his parables---they were all intended to show what the Kingdom of God is like, what the new way of being human is all about.   Why did Jesus feed people? Because in God's Kingdom, in the kind of world that God always intended for us to have, there is no hunger. In God's Kingdom, there is no sickness, so Jesus healed people. In God's Kingdom, there is no discrimination, so he elevated the status of those who were rejected by society. He ate with the people that everyone else hated–the tax collectors and the prostitutes–because in God's Kingdom, every single human life has value. In God's Kingdom, there is justice, mercy, and love. Thus, he offered acceptance. He offered love in everything he did, ultimately giving up his life in the greatest act of love in the history of the world.   Jesus' ministry was not just about getting individuals right with God. That was part of it but certainly the good news of the Kingdom is more than “you can go to heaven when you die.” It's “you can be reconciled to God now. You can live under the reign of Christ and live life abundant.” Yes, Christ came to ensure individual salvation but it was one part of something much bigger. By dying on the cross and being raised from the dead, there was final victory over sin and the barrier between heaven and earth was broken for good.   Enough for today.  You can see I might be just a teensy bit passionate about this.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

Messianic Apologetics editor John McKee reviews Ephesians 2:11-13, and the specific claim that non-Jewish Believers are somehow “former Gentiles.” This is then followed by a review of important stories and issues from the past day or so, largely witnessed on social media.

All Israel will be saved, but for now God is working primarily thru the Gentile church. But as Christ stated in the Gospels, “Salvation is of the Jews” and God has NOT abandoned His chosen people. He will again gather them to Himself in the lasts days.    

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 10 Cornelius, a devout Gentile centurion, receives a vision from God telling him to send for Peter. Meanwhile, Peter has a vision of a sheet filled with unclean animals and hears a voice telling him to eat. When Peter refuses, God responds, “What God has cleansed, no longer consider unholy.” As Cornelius's men arrive, Peter realizes the vision signifies God's acceptance of all who fear and obey Him. Peter goes to Cornelius's house, where Cornelius recalls his vision. Peter preaches about Jesus, emphasizing that God shows no favoritism and offers salvation to all who believe. As Peter speaks, the Holy Spirit falls on the Gentiles, enabling them to speak in tongues, astonishing the Jewish believers. Peter baptizes them, declaring that they must not be refused baptism and the forgiveness of sins.  God's salvation through Jesus Christ is available to everyone, regardless of ethnicity, culture, or background. We must not allow personal bias to hinder us from sharing God's universal message with all people. Peter's example teaches the church to remove all limitations and boundaries from the gospel's reach. Cornelius illustrates that good, caring people remain lost until they hear and obey the gospel call. People must learn about Jesus and the forgiveness of sins that come through Him. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit marked a unique event, forever uniting different groups as equals in the church. Our responsibility is to demonstrate this in whom we teach and baptize, as well as whom we fellowship and serve in the kingdom. Benevolent Father, You went to great lengths to bring salvation in Jesus to Cornelius. Humble us to understand that we are Cornelius. We are Gentiles who would have no hope, regardless of our good deeds, except for the saving grace of Jesus Christ and His cleansing power. Thank You for showing no partiality and for Your willingness to welcome all who fear You and do what is right. Teach us how to be fueled by gratitude for the resurrected Christ and His grace. And please show us someone today who needs to hear that Jesus also wants to save them.  Thought Questions: -       Do you know anyone like Cornelius, who is kind and God-fearing but has not surrendered to Jesus? If so, how can you help? -       Peter was an apostle of Jesus but still had things to learn about God. What are things you are still learning about God's will for your life? -       Why was the Holy Spirit falling on Cornelius a unique event? What was the purpose, and how does that explain why this does not happen today? 

As the Apostles gather and discuss, they determine that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ...Jew and Gentile alike. (Lectionary #288) May 22, 2025 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com  

Is loving your family first a biblical idea—or a betrayal of Jesus' call to love your neighbor? In this thought-provoking episode, Mike Tolliver—Executive Director of the Center for Hebraic Thought—joins Dru Johnson to explore his developing PhD thesis on Storge (family love), the kinsman-redeemer, and what biblical justice actually looks like. Drawing on Torah, philosophy, and early Christian texts, Mike argues that Storge love is not only natural—it's essential to a functioning society, and that Israel's family-based justice system was designed to eliminate categories like “orphan” and “widow.” He explores why Paul uses the metaphor of adoption—and not kinsman-redeemer—for Gentile inclusion, and why the Ten Commandments are saturated with family ethics. From Sophie's Choice-style sermon illustrations to questions about circumcision, baptism, and ethnic election, this episode unpacks the implications of what it means to love your kin without devaluing the stranger. As Mike prepares for PhD work, his big question is: What does rightly ordered family love look like in Scripture—and what happens when it gets misordered? We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/give For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought Threads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthought X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters: 00:00 Exploring Academic Pursuits and Career Paths 05:47 The Kinsman Redeemer: A Social Safety Net 14:35 Storge and Kinsman Redeemer in Biblical Context 19:54 Theological Implications of Kinship and Election 27:34 Exploring the Promise of Descendancy 29:03 Navigating the Path to a PhD 30:56 The Challenge of Proposal Writing 31:57 Understanding Storge in Hebraic Thought 39:07 The Role of Storge in the Ten Commandments 41:07 Stranger Love vs. Family Love 43:55 Moral Dilemmas in Love 49:56 The Future of Intergenerational Family Focus

Dive into the transformative power of Acts 13:42-48 with the Double Edged Sword Podcast! In this episode, we explore St. Paul's first missionary sermon, where the Holy Spirit empowers him and Barnabas to boldly proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ's resurrection. Witness how their message stirs hearts, drawing both Jews and Gentiles to the faith, while facing opposition from those who reject the truth. Discover the profound themes of free will, as Paul emphasizes that salvation is a choice open to all, not a predetermined fate. Learn how the apostles' wisdom in planting seeds of faith—without forcing belief—leads to a joyous response from the Gentiles, fulfilling God's call to be a light to all nations. Perfect for believers and seekers alike, this episode unpacks the early church's mission, the universal invitation to salvation, and the enduring relevance of living in God's grace. Join us for an inspiring journey through Scripture that challenges and uplifts, encouraging you to reflect on your own faith and share Christ's love with others. Tune in for timeless insights and spiritual encouragement!

Hosts Pastor Vincent Fernandez and Pastor Lloyd Pulley Question Timestamps: Esteban, Australia (1:34) - Can you clarify Leviticus 19:28, does it apply to wearing a wristband in remembrance of a friend? Bob, PA (5:25) - Why are there three extra books in the Catholic Bible? Jay, email (8:28) - Did God call Paul the apostle to preach to the Gentiles and then the Jews? Did he obey that order at the beginning? DM316, YouTube (10:32) - Can you help me understand why someone would experience extreme highs and lows in their life as a Christian? Eileen, email (16:28) - How would you talk with someone who believes that all religions lead to God? Reyna, MA (22:29) - How do you deal with the realization that you are more sinful than you thought?  David, GA (25:47, continued after break 33:30) - Are there any particular differences I should be aware of when attending a Southern Baptist Church? Is there an issue with having an image of Jesus? Leila, NJ (36:54) - What would you suggest for stopping my anger towards another Christian that I've had issues with? Pam, MA (43:22) - What needs to happen prophetically for the last days to come about? Brad, TX (47:37) - Is it up to us to follow up with people who claim they are "once saved, always saved" but still live in sin?  Jeanine, SC (52:56) - Is it correct for a church to have a "deliverance ministry?" Ask Your Question: 888-712-7434 Answers@bbtlive.org

Thursday, 22 May 2025   Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city! Matthew 10:15   “Amen! I say to you, it will be sufferable – land Sodom and Gomorrah – on judgment day than that city” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus instructed the apostles to out-swing the dust from their feet of any house or city that rejected their word concerning the coming of the kingdom of heaven. Now, He tells them what that act signifies, beginning with, “Amen! I say to you.”   As has been seen, this forms an emphatic declaration concerning what follows. He is stressing the importance of what follows. In this case, it is the ramifications for rejecting the word they carry, saying, “it will be sufferable.”   It is a new adjective, anektoteros, signifying more endurable, more tolerable, etc. It is derived from the verb anechó, to endure, bear with, tolerate, etc. In this case, a single word that will fit the surrounding thought is sufferable. Next, to describe what is sufferable, He says, “land Sodom and Gomorrah.”   The epitome of what is considered biblical punishment and judgment on sin is found in the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. So poignant was this lesson found in their writings that the memory of it is referred to throughout their history.   At times, the cities are referred to as the epitome of wickedness. At times, they are used as the epitome of judgment upon it. In Isaiah 1, both thoughts are referred to at one time –   “Unless the Lord of hosts Had left to us a very small remnant, We would have become like Sodom, We would have been made like Gomorrah. 10 Hear the word of the Lord, You rulers of Sodom; Give ear to the law of our God, You people of Gomorrah.” Isaiah 1:9, 10   These warnings didn't end with Jesus' words, though. They are referred to in 2 Peter and Jude. Finally, in Revelation 11, Jerusalem of the tribulation period is equated to Sodom and Egypt, a stinging and shameful rebuke.   Of these cities and what will be sufferable for them, Jesus says, “on judgment day than that city.” In other words, at the time when judgment is meted out upon the world prior to the lost being cast into the Lake of Fire, Sodom and Gomorrah will receive less punishment than such a city. How could that be?   The reason isn't the direct, flagrant, and open wickedness of these cities. Rather, it is a matter of revealed light. As Jesus says elsewhere –   “But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.” Luke 12:48   Sodom and Gomorrah were cities filled with perverts and wicked people, but they only had the light of general revelation to direct them, along with the consciences that God gave them. Israel, on the other hand, had God's special revelation in the form of the law, the writings, and the prophets.   They were given these things to lead them to the coming of the Messiah, Jesus. Upon His arrival and His proclamation that everything they were promised was about to be presented to them, they rejected what these writings proclaimed. In their rejection, there could be no excuse. This is a truth that continues to this day.   Life application: Today, it is popular among Christians to give Israel and the Jewish people a pass for their conduct and their way of life. Condemnation of those around her comes quickly, as it should, but when it comes to pointing out the behavior of Israel, there is often not a peep made.   And yet, it is Israel the people who bear the name of God, who openly hold “pride” parades, condone abortion, promote or tolerate wickedness, etc. Christians should support the nation in their state of return because God has ordained it, while not failing to call out their corruption as well as their rejection of Jesus.   Jews must be evangelized like any other group of people. Those who reject Jesus will be eternally separated from God. What came upon them for the past two thousand years was a self-inflicted wound. Paul explicitly says this when writing to those at Thessalonica –   “For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe. 14 For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judea in Christ Jesus. For you also suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they did from the Judeans, 15 who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all men, 16 forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost.” 1 Thessalonians 2:13-16   Be sure to pray for Israel, be willing to call out their flaws, and be sure to have tracts ready to hand out to any Jews you meet, just as you would for any other person.   Heavenly Father, help us to think clearly about how You have presented Your word, including its warnings, to the people of the world. Judgment really is coming, and people must be warned of the consequences for failing to heed the word You have given us. May we be bold in this, O God. Amen.  

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 9 Saul, later known as Paul, continues to pursue Christians to imprison them. On his way to Damascus, a light from heaven stops him. He hears Jesus speaking, asking why Saul is persecuting Him. Blinded, Saul is led into the city to wait for instructions. Meanwhile, God instructs Ananias to visit Saul and restore his sight. Despite his fear, Ananias obeys. Saul learns that he will become an apostle to the Gentiles. After regaining his sight, he is immediately baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit. Saul begins to preach boldly, prompting the Jews to seek to kill him. He escapes to Jerusalem, where Barnabas vouches for him. The chapter also recounts Peter healing Aeneas and raising Tabitha from the dead, demonstrating God's power and inspiring many new believers in Jesus.  Saul's story highlights the transformative power of Jesus Christ. His conversion shows that no one is beyond the call of the gospel. God often uses individuals like Ananias to fulfill His mission. We must confront our fears and seize opportunities to share God's hope with others. It is also inspiring to see Saul immediately active in sharing his faith. Some of the greatest passion for evangelism comes from new converts. We can learn a great deal from them. Like Barnabas, we should defend and support new believers to help God's people embrace them. Lastly, Tabitha was deeply missed and cherished for her charitable spirit. We should seek to be cherished servants among God's people, known for “deeds of kindness and charity.”  Glorious Father, we praise Your patience and relentless pursuit of sinners. You humbled and restored Saul, as You have done with us. We are living testaments to Your grace and love. Teach us to live with gratitude and to obey Your call to share Jesus with others, even when it feels risky or uncertain. Give us the spirit of vigor and the voice of joy to express our faith like those who are new in Christ. Please create an opportunity today to tell someone that You are the Healer, the Forgiver, and You have the power even to raise the dead! Thought Questions: -       What does Saul's conversion tell you about God's love? Saul committed to God out of gratitude. How powerful is gratitude in driving your faith? -       Barnabas defends Saul when others are fearful. How should you be like Barnabas when someone with a troubled past comes to Christ? -       Tabitha was treasured for her charitable deeds. When you pass from this life, how do you want to be remembered by the family of God?

As the Gentiles embrace the Good News of Christ, a debate emerges among the disciples: do you have to be Jewish to believe in Jesus? (Lectionary #287) May 21, 2025 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com  

Paul, an apostle and servant of Jesus Christ, explains how the Son of God is the promised Son of David, showing God's power for salvation for Jews and Gentiles. The post Romans Episode 1 | The Gospel: The Power of God for Salvation – Part 1 appeared first on Two Journeys.

Marketplace Entrepreneur for the Kingdom of God • Sunday Service Website: www.PastorTodd.org Please help us fight back and take a stand: www.ToddCoconato.com/give We are in a critical hour where the lines between sacred and secular are blurring—not because we're compromising the Gospel, but because God is invading every sphere of society through His people. The Church is not confined to the four walls of a building. In fact, many of the greatest battles and victories of this generation will not take place in pulpits, but in boardrooms, offices, construction sites, online platforms, and homes. You don't have to be a pulpit preacher to be in full-time ministry. If you're called to the marketplace, then you're on the frontlines of spiritual warfare, influence, and kingdom advancement. 1. Matthew 5:14-16 (NKJV) “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” 2. Colossians 3:23-24 (NKJV) “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” 3. Proverbs 13:22 (NKJV) “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children, but the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.” 4. Deuteronomy 8:18 (NKJV) “And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.” 5. Acts 18:1-3 (NKJV) “After these things Paul departed from Athens and went to Corinth. And he found a certain Jew named Aquila… with his wife Priscilla… because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked; for by occupation they were tentmakers.” 6. Proverbs 22:29 (NKJV) “Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men.” 7. Isaiah 60:1-3 (NKJV) “Arise, shine; for your light has come! And the glory of the Lord is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; But the Lord will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.” 8. Luke 19:13 (NKJV) “So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten minas, and said to them, ‘Do business till I come.'” 9. 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (NKJV) “There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all.” 10. Ecclesiastes 11:1-2 (NKJV) “Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days. Give a serving to seven, and also to eight, for you do not know what evil will be on the earth.” 11. Romans 12:6-8 (NKJV) “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy… or he who gives, with liberality… he who leads, with diligence…” God is raising up Josephs, Daniels, Deborahs, and Esthers in the marketplace—leaders who can manage resources, interpret dreams, influence kings, and save nations. You may not stand in a pulpit, but your calling is no less holy. Your business is a platform for truth, your clients are a mission field, and your profits can fund revival. This is the hour to rise up as a kingdom entrepreneur—set apart, filled with the Spirit, and unashamed of the Gospel in the business world. CCLI: 21943673

Welcome to the Jew and Gentile Podcast.   Text the Jew and Gentile your comments, questions, concerns (OY!), and news at: 424-444-1948   Donate today:    MUG-ON-A-MUG With your gift of $10 or more to FOI Equip, you to can have your very own Mug-on-a-Mug. Your generous donation helps to expand the important work of teaching the Bible from a Jewish perspective while raising up new FOI volunteers and representatives serving Jewish communities all around the world.   Visit gofoi.org/mug to make your gift today and receive your own Jew and Gentile Podcast Mug-on-a-Mug.   Oy, look at Steve's punim! FROM THE SCRIPTURES Matthew 5:17   “Do not think I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets.  I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.” FOI Equip Classes:   A Guide to the End of the World THOMAS ICE MAY 8, 15, 22   Did you know God has provided a guide to understanding the end of the world? For many, thinking of the world's end brings fear and anxiety, but it doesn't have to be that way. In this month's FOI Equip class, Dr. Thomas Ice will explore the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 and 25, revealing how its message offers clarity, joy, and peace. Discover how God's prophetic roadmap points to Jesus' return and learn practical applications from this teaching. Join Dr. Ice as he unpacks biblical prophecy and its relevance for our lives today!   Register: foiequip.org   FOI Resources  Get a free one-year trial subscription to Israel My Glory https://israelmyglory.org/subscribe/ Get Involved with Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry https://www.foi.org/outreach   Chris Katulka's book: Israel Always foi.org/israelalways   Steve Herzig's book: Jewish Culture & Customs foi.org/jcc   Christmas is Jewish Finding Messiah in Passover messiahinpassover.org   Harbingers Daily https://harbingersdaily.com/ In the News:   Mossad seizes 2,500 document Syrian files on executed spy Eli Cohen https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-854436?utm_source=jpost.app.apple&utm_medium=share#google_vignette   Spanish PM claims Israel's Eurovision participation shows EBU's double standard https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-854587   UK, France, Canada warn of ‘concrete actions' if Israel doesn't halt war, boost aid https://www.timesofisrael.com/uk-france-canada-warn-of-concrete-actions-if-israel-doesnt-halt-war-boost-aid/ Former hostage throws out first pitch at Fenway as Red Sox host Jewish Heritage Night https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/former-hostage-throws-out-first-pitch-at-fenway-as-red-sox-host-jewish-heritage-night/ Yiddish Word of the Day: Drash—Give a sermon, discuss an interpretation of the text

Wednesday, 21 May 2025   And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet. Matthew 10:14   “And who, if not he should receive you nor he should hear your words, departing the house or that city, you out-swing the dust of your feet!” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus continued his instructions about greeting a house when looking to stay with someone in a city. Concerning someone whose peace is not received, Jesus says, “And who, if not he should receive you nor he should hear your words.”   The word dechomai, to receive, is introduced. HELPS Word Studies says, “to receive in a welcoming (receptive) way. ... [The personal element is emphasized ... which accounts for it always being in the Greek middle voice. This stresses the high level of self-involvement (interest) involved with the ‘welcoming-receiving.'”   If the peace spoken to the house is not well-received, it symbolically returns to the one who made the greeting. The apostles' words were heard, their mission was explained, and the one to whom the appeal was made found it unsuitable to the state of their household.   This is essentially what Jesus is speaking of. If this is the case, and their words have been rejected, He next says, “departing the house or that city, you out-swing the dust of your feet!”   The word ektinassó, to out-swing, is first used here. It is derived from ek, out or from, and tinassó, to swing. Thus, it literally signifies to out-swing. Saying “shake off,” as most translations say, is a suitable and understandable translation.   One can imagine them walking out of the house or the city, putting their foot forward, and swinging it back and forth as a symbolic gesture of their displeasure at how things transpired. This is something that is seen by Paul in Acts 13 –   “Now when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord. And as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed. 49 And the word of the Lord was being spread throughout all the region. 50 But the Jews stirred up the devout and prominent women and the chief men of the city, raised up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region. 51 But they shook off the dust from their feet against them, and came to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 15:48-52   A third new word is also seen in this verse, koniortos, dust. It is derived from koniaó, to whitewash or plaster, and ornumi, to rouse. Thus, one can think of something being pulverized. That leads to the thought of dust, which blows about like something as it is pulverized.   This symbolic gesture is a way of indicating that the very dust of the house or city that they visited was repulsive to them and they wanted to be rid of it, lest they carry a vestige of it with them, reminding them of the dirty treatment they received.   Life application: Concerning the act of shaking off the dust in this verse, the Pulpit Commentary, among other similar commentaries, says –   “Treating it as a heathen place, whose pollution must be shaken off. For the very dust from a heathen land was to be reckoned as polluting, since, as Rashi says on Talm. Bab., ‘Sabb.,' 15b (cf. Lightfoot, 'Hor. Hebr.,' in loc.), ‘It may be doubted, of all the dust of a heathen land, whether it were not from the sepulchre of the dead.'”   Because of this comment from Rashi, Vincent's Word Studies says –   “The very dust of a heathen country was unclean, and it defiled by contact. It was regarded like a grave, or like the putrescence of death. If a spot of heathen dust had touched an offering, it must at once be burnt. More than that, if by mischance any heathen dust had been brought into Palestine, it did not and could not mingle with that of 'the land,' but remained to the end what it had been - unclean, defiled and defiling everything to which it adhered." The apostles, therefore, were not only to leave the house or city which should refuse to receive them, ‘but it was to be considered and treated as if it were heathen, just as in the similar case mentioned in Matthew 18:17. All contact with such must be avoided, all trace of it shaken off' (Edersheim, ‘Jewish Social Life in the Days of Christ').”   There is a problem with this, which is that there is nothing to support the conclusion that this was how Jews felt about the dust of pagan lands. It is illogical and a pointless commentary. First, many Jews lived in the diaspora. Paul was born and raised in Tarsus of Cilicia.   Acts 2 notes that Jews were visiting from all over the empire. Further, Rashi was born in France in 1040 AD, studied in Germany, and then returned to France. Commenting on the filthy nature of pagan lands by someone who was born, raised, and died in them just means that he was an arrogant, close-minded, and racist person who thought he was better than those among whom he lived.   Jesus was making a point about the treatment of the apostles in the land of Israel, not among Gentiles. In Acts 13, Paul was making the same point about Jews in a Gentile nation.   God is not worried about the dust of foreign lands. His concern is about the defiled nature of those who come against the gospel. Be sure not to pass on ridiculous commentaries that are not based on a rational analysis of Scripture or how God deals with humanity.   Rashi, like the Jews in Acts 13, rejected Jesus Christ. Therefore, Rashi, not the dust of the land in which he lived, was defiled and unacceptable to God.   Heavenly Father, the earth is Yours and all its fullness. You are pleased with Your creation, whether in Ome, Japan, or Pueblo Viejo, Ecuador. The things that displease You don't concern the nature of the lands or the clarity of the water. Rather, You are pleased with those who have received Your Son, Jesus. Upon all others, Your wrath remains. Help us to get the word out so that the world will know the glory of Jesus! Amen.  

Welcome to Day 2634 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2634 – New Testament Orientation – The Jesus of History Putnam Church Message – 05/18/2025 Sermon Series: New Testament Orientation Message 4: The Jesus of History   Last week, we returned to the intertestamental period between the Old and New Testaments and explored The Culture and Cosmology of the Intertestamental Period. Our core verses for last week were Galatians 3:26-29. Verse 28 summarizes the message. There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.  Today, we will explore how Jesus appears in history outside the Bible. Our core verses for today are: Matthew 25:31-36  “But when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit upon his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered in his presence, and he will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep at his right hand and the goats at his left. “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.' (Opening Prayer) Heavenly Father, we gather once more, our hearts open to the enduring story of Jesus of Nazareth. We seek not just to remember him, but to truly understand him within the tapestry of his time. Expand our minds and hearts, Lord, as we delve deeper into the historical realities that shaped his earthly journey. May your Spirit illuminate the path of the Jesus of history, revealing the profound significance of his life for our faith today. It is in Jesus' name we pray, Amen. The Jesus of History (From the Perspective of Ancient Israelites and Early Christians): For generations, the whispers of the prophets had echoed in the synagogues and homes, foretelling the coming of the Messiah, the Anointed One who would restore the fortunes of Israel. They clung tightly to these promises during times of both fleeting autonomy and prolonged subjugation under foreign powers. The anticipation was a constant hum beneath the surface of the Israelites daily lives, a yearning for the promised deliverer. Yet, when Jesus of Nazareth finally appeared, his presence and his message often defied the very expectations they had nurtured for centuries. (Connecting to Current Context): Consider the anticipation surrounding a significant historical event or the arrival of a long-awaited leader. We often build up a mental image, a set of expectations based on news, past experiences, and our own desires. Think of the fervor surrounding a new era, a revolutionary movement, or the promise of a technological breakthrough. We imagine a specific outcome, a particular way in which the change will manifest. When the reality unfolds, it can sometimes be surprising, even challenging, to reconcile our...

It's Tuesday, May 20th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson Fulani Muslim killed 15 unarmed Nigerian Christians On Saturday, May 17th, armed Fulani Muslim militia opened fire on Agatu Christians in Benue State, Nigeria, killing 15 unarmed men. Throughout that North Central region, the Fulani have also killed 159 Christian residents over the last 40 days, according to TruthNigeria.com.   Pray for Christians in Nigeria, suffering the most severe violence in the world today. Romania turns left after election interference On Sunday, Romania has taken the centrist-left position with the election of a new president named Nicușor Dan. Dan is supportive of Romania's participation in the European Union, and has made moves to approve the homosexual/transgender movement in his country. The more conservative candidate, George-Nicolae Simion, lost the election in a vote of 54% to 46%. Romania is the second largest Eastern European country by population.  The mainstream media is interpreting this election as an international rejection of the Trump agenda.  The back story is that Călin Georgescu, the conservative in the first round of the Romanian presidential election last December, garnered the most votes among the six presidential candidates at that time. After his opponents claimed that Russia had influenced the election through TikTok accounts, Romanian government officials detained Georgescu, canceled that election, and re-set it for May 18th.  Tens of thousands of Romanians protested in the streets back in March. At the time, Elon Musk said, “They just arrested the person who won the most votes in the Romanian presidential election. This is messed up.” Most and least benevolent countries According to this year's Gallup World Happiness Report, the most benevolent countries in the world, judged by donations and volunteer hours, are Indonesia, the United States, Kenya, Gambia, United Arab Emirates, Ireland, Canada, and New Zealand. The least benevolent countries are Afghanistan, Yemen, Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco.  Biden announces advanced prostate cancer Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an "aggressive form" of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, reports CBS News. On Sunday, President Trump posted on social media that he and First Lady Melania Trump are "saddened to hear about Joe Biden's recent medical diagnosis." Appearing on MSNBC's “Morning Joe” on Monday, former Obama health advisor Dr. Zeke Emanuel said the cancer is so advanced, he has had it for many years. SCARBOROUGH: “Doesn't it take some time for prostate cancer to develop to a point where it would spread to the bones?” EMANUEL: “He's had this for many years, maybe even a decade, growing there and spreading.” Dr. Emanuel explained how serious Biden's prostate cancer truly is. EMANUEL: “That Gleason score, that score is from 2 up to 10, and he's at a 9. That means that the cancer doesn't look normal. It looks very abnormal.” Appearing on Fox News with Jesse Waters, talk show host Hugh Hewitt was incredulous. HEWITT: “This is the fourth time, in a little over 100 years, that a Democratic president -- Woodrow Wilson, FDR, John F. Kennedy and now Joe Biden, have hidden crucial details about their health as Commander-in-Chief from the American people. Ronald Reagan did not do that. “And it just astonishes me that in a free republic, we have to worry about our leaders telling us whether they're healthy or not.” Supremes allows Trump to revoke protection for thousands of illegal Venezuelans On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling allowing the Trump administration to deport 350,000 Venezuelans who are presently living in the U.S. on what they call a “humanitarian parole,” reports NBC News. Christian camp sues over foolish transgender mandates The State of Colorado is threatening to shut down a Christian Camp called Idrahaje -- short for “I'd Rather Have Jesus.” The Colorado Department of Early Childhood has refused to grant the camp a religious exemption concerning its transgender policies. This would require the camp to allow boys, pretending to be girls, to sleep, shower, and dress with female campers. The camp has sued the state, with representation from Alliance Defending Freedom. The camp disciples 2,500 to 3,000 students each year with the mission to “win souls to Jesus Christ through the spreading of the Gospel.”  Camp Idrahaje has complied with all regulations until this year when the Colorado government officials released new gender identity rules that became effective on February 14, 2025. 96% of atheists embrace homosexual/transgender agenda The most likely group in America to support the homosexual/transgender agenda are atheists with 96% professing support.  By contrast, 70% of white Evangelical Protestants oppose the lifestyle. Psalm 14:1 describes the atheist this way: "The fool has said in his heart, there is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works.” Mother loses right to disciple daughter Liberty Counsel is defending a mother in the state of Maine who has lost the right to guide the religious upbringing of her 11-year-old girl in a custody case.  This includes taking her daughter to Calvary Chapel services on Sunday.   A state district judge has ruled against the mother, citing “The ‘fear mongering,' paranoia, and anxiety taught by Calvary Chapel has, more likely than not, already had an impact on [the daughter's] childhood development.”   Expert testimony concluded that Calvary Chapel is a cult, the church's pastor a “charismatic” speaker, who spoke “authoritatively” in his messages, and that he asserted his messages were objective truth.   Liberty Counsel is appealing the case to the Maine Supreme Court. They still persecute people who preach about Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16 says, “For you also suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they did from the Judeans, who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all men, forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost.” Housing prices sag Since June 2022, housing prices are sagging in some metro areas around the U.S. — 22.8% in the Austin market, 9.9% in the Phoenix market, 9.2% in the San Francisco market, 9.1% in the San Antonio Market, 7.3% in the Denver market, and 6.7% in the Dallas Market. The Consumer Price Index has also risen about 10% over that period of time. Moody's downgraded America's financial rating And finally, in a year-over-year comparison, the U.S. government is still breaking records for fiscal expenditures running 10% over Fiscal Year 2024. Moody's has downgraded the U.S. as a long-term issuer of bonds by one notch, ending a perfect rating for America over the last 108 years.  No longer does the U.S, government get a Aaa rating, the highest level available. Now, it's an Aa1. Moody's noted that the downgrade "reflects the increase over more than a decade in government debt and interest payment ratios to levels that are significantly higher than similarly rated sovereigns.” The rating organization added that: “Successive U.S. administrations and Congress have failed to agree on measures to reverse the trend of large annual fiscal deficits and growing interest costs.”   Another independent rating service, named Fitch, downgraded the United States in 2023.  Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday, May 20th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

This sermon is part of a series on Colossians, focusing on verses 1:24-2:3. The central message emphasizes that 'Christ is enough' - a theme that runs throughout the entire book. Pastor Devin discusses Paul's perspective on suffering for the church, the mystery of Christ being revealed to the Gentiles, and the importance of warning and teaching in spiritual growth. The sermon highlights how the church historically grows through persecution and affliction, and emphasizes that true fulfillment can only be found in Jesus Christ.How does the concept of 'Christ is enough' challenge our modern tendency to seek fulfillment in other things?What role does suffering play in our spiritual growth according to this passage?How has persecution historically affected the growth of the church? Why do you think this is?What does it mean to have 'Christ in you, the hope of glory'?How can we balance both warning and teaching in our relationships with fellow believers?Why is it important to align our opinions with God's Word rather than trying to make God's Word align with our opinions?What does it mean to be weak so that Christ's power can be perfected in us?How can we practically demonstrate that Christ is enough in our daily lives?Support the show

This weekend, we're studying Acts 11:1–18 under the theme “Religious Discrimination.” In this pivotal moment, Peter defends his mission to the Gentiles after God reveals that the Gospel breaks through ethnic and religious barriers—proving salvation is not by cultural conformity but by grace alone. We'll see how God confronts human prejudice, expands our understanding of His grace, and calls us to reject man-made divisions in favor of His unifying Gospel.SERIES SUMMARY: The Book of Acts is the story of the early Christian Church. For centuries after the first Easter, the Christian Church has studied Acts. The logic is that, after we celebrated Jesus' rising from the grave and subsequent ascent into heaven, perhaps we should try to do what the early church did, contextualized to our time and place. Throughout this series, we will look at snapshots of Acts, from supernatural healing to strategic planning, cultural diversity to Christian celebrity. This is the story of what Jesus continued to do even after he ascended into heaven and sent his Spirit to form the Church.How can we pray for you? tinyurl.com/stmarcusprayersFill out our online connection card: tinyurl.com/stmarcusconnectcardIf you'd like to leave an offering or monetary donation to our ministry please click here: https://tinyurl.com/stmarcusgive

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