Podcasts about god god

On Trinity Sunday, the Rev. Nick Lannon preaches a sermon on the Good News of our three-and-one God: God the Father created you, God the Son saved you, and God the Holy Spirit is with you.

The gospel teaches you CANNOT follow Christ alone.  Thankfully, the gospel also teaches you WILL NOT follow Christ alone. To understand and appreciate the Holy Spirit two words emerge: Relationship and Role  1. His Relationship to Us 14:15-17                    A.His relationship is… Promised 14:16a Permanent 14:16b  Personal 14:17c 2. His Relationship to the World 14:17b 3. His Role in the World 16:7-15             He convicts the world concerning the… Rejection of Christ Righteousness of Christ's Death  Reality of Christ's Work 4. His Role in Us  The Holy Spirit... Gives us Spiritual Life Guides us into Spiritual Truth  Guards us from Sin Guarantees our Salvation Glorifies the Savior 15:26; 16:14 Stay Tuned In!  

Sometimes prayer feels powerful.Sometimes it feels repetitive.Sometimes it feels like nothing is happening at all.So what do we do when prayer feels exhausting… or unanswered… or hard to keep going?We keep praying.In this message from our This Is What We Do series, Pastor Mark shares why perseverance in prayer matters—not because God is distant, but because prayer strengthens us for the fight. Just like athletes train with endurance so they're ready when it matters most, we keep showing up in prayer so our faith grows stronger over time.You'll also be reminded of two powerful truths about God:→ God is Loving — His love for you doesn't change. You can't earn more of it, and you can't lose it.→ God is Just — He sees every hurt, every injustice, every unseen moment, and He will make things right.If you've been discouraged in prayer, this message is for you.At Fierce Church, we're Helping You Walk with Jesus Step-By-Step.Because The Best U is in Community.

In this message, we are going to jump into a three weeks series covering the life of one my favorite Biblical characters. We get to meet him as a teenager and my hope is that his story will encourage and inspire those who are in their teens and early twenties. But maybe not in the way you would expect... Our main character is Joseph, and he was definitely going to do great things. Right after some really terrible but necessary things. If you get a chance, read Genesis 37 and then buckle up. Pastor Dr. Aaron Weisser

Today's episode is intended to help you evaluate whether a rather standard kind of constitutional argument made by Christian legal advocates accords with Scripture's definition of wisdom. David explains how he came to understand "spiritual wisdom" and offers that in relation to wisdom provided by National Right to Life's General Counsel about challenging Roe v. Wade.

We've been looking for them, at least since I was a kid. Life forms from somewhere else in the universe. In the 1930s for example, famed actor, Orson Welles, freaked out a nation with a radio broadcast of simulated news bulletins. Millions were convinced an alien invasion was taking place. And then in the 1950's, sightings of UFO's triggered reports of downed aliens secretly kept in New Mexico's infamous “Area 51.” And then in the 1990s, the hit TV series, “X Files.” Now our government has started releasing extensive files with all kinds of footage of aerial phenomena. Is it military technology? The interplanetary visitors we've been waiting for? Or spiritual forces, as the Bible talks about in a section about “how Satan works. He will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders that serve the lie” (2 Thessalonians 2:9). I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about “Aliens – And Beyond.” In our broader popular culture, extraterrestrial life is one of the most enduring mysteries of the past century. But it's just one of many things in the “beyond us” category. Astronauts return from space in awe of the magnitude of what they have seen beyond our world. And millions of us are endlessly curious about a buffet of spiritualities and unexplainable spiritual phenomena. And while our fascination with things “beyond us” takes us down many different trails, there is one common source. There's a yearning in our soul that needs something bigger than ourselves. Bigger than can be explained. And the revealing explanation for this comes from the greatest “beyond us” of all. The God who created us. Who says in Ecclesiastes 3:11, our word for today from the Word of God: “God has placed eternity in the human heart” (Ecclesiastes 3:11). We are looking for something that will last forever! Which effectively eliminates everything “earth.” Oh, we try all kinds of relationships and accomplishments and experiences – but they don't last! And all of our ventures into the unknown and unexplainable are ultimately, well, substitute supernaturals. Little bridges that leave us stranded. Because none of them reach the destination our soul craves. Knowing our Creator. For He tells us that we were “created by Him and for Him” (Colossians 1:16). And as He prayed, Jesus said, “This is the way to have eternal life – to know You, the only true God” (John 17:3). But our search for lasting love and peace and meaning has not taken us to Him. It has taken us away from Him. God describes it this way: “We all, like sheep, have gone astray; each of us has turned to our own way” (Isaiah 53:6). The opposite of God's way. Tragically, that has left us “without God and without hope” (Ephesians 2:12). Alone in His universe. By our choice, not His. A lot of religions talk about God at the top of a mountain. And us on many different roads, hoping they will lead to Him. But the divine bombshell is this amazing reality: we can't possibly reach a sinless God, no matter which road we choose. But God loves us too much to leave us lost. So in the greatest act of love in human history, He came down from the mountain to bring us to Him! At the unspeakable price of dying to pay the penalty for the very sinning we've done against Him. In the Bible's words: “Christ died for sinners to bring you safely home to God” (1 Peter 3:18). Then He rose from the dead to give us a gift that answers the eternity in our heart. Life. Eternal life! That life is within your reach today. That's what our website is all about, and I encourage you to go to ANewStory.com. There you'll see from the Bible how to begin this life-changing relationship with the Jesus. Suddenly all the scattered pieces of our life make something. All our fear of the future is swallowed up by life that lasts forever. And the cosmic loneliness of our life is finally satisfied by the endless love of God. No, the answer is not “out there." It's right here. In the Savior waiting for us with arms open wide.

If you've ever stared at the Bible and thought "this is too big, too scary, I don't even know where to start," this episode is for you. Daron Earlewine sits down with PJ Towle and Darren "Coop" Cooper to break down the simplest, most practical way to get into Scripture. No seminary degree required. No guilt trip. Just real talk about how three guys who all struggled with reading at some point built a habit that actually changed them. You'll walk away with three solid starting points, a four-step framework you can use every day, and permission to engage with the Word the way God actually wired you. Ready to discover who God created you to be? Book a free 30-minute discovery call at RogueCollectiveCoaching.com.  KEY TAKEAWAYS: ⚡️ Hearing the living Word of God is built on being saturated in the written Word of God ⚡️God designed multiple ways to engage with Scripture. Audio, written, community, solo. There is no single "right" way ⚡️ Reading the Bible is not about gathering information. It's a catalytic process for transformation TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 — Why Bible reading feels intimidating  04:15 — Three rookie year stories from Daron, PJ, and Coop  3:00 — God meets you where He wired you  22:30 — Stop turning Bible time into a checklist  27:00 — The best places in the Bible to start  33:00 — The GROW framework that changes everything CONNECT WITH DARON: Website: https://daronearlewine.com  Rogue Collective Coaching: https://roguecollectivecoaching.com  Blackbird Mission: https://blackbirdmission.com  Email: daron@daronearlewine.com Like what you heard? Hit subscribe, leave a review, and share this with one person who told you they want to start reading the Bible. #DaronEarlewine #BibleReading #FaithFilledLeaders #ChristianPodcast #BlackbirdMission #Discipleship #FollowJesus #BibleStudy #ChristianEntrepreneur

Who told you who you are?In Episode 13 of the "What's In Your Hands?" series, we go to one of the most dramatic moments in scripture — Jacob wrestling with God all night long at the river Jabbok. God asks him one question: what is your name? And the moment Jacob confesses the old name — deceiver, trickster, manipulator — God renames him Israel. Overcomer.But here's what most people miss: God didn't rename him before the confession. He renamed him after. Because you can't receive a new identity until you're honest about the old one. And the limp Jacob walked away with? That wasn't punishment. That was proof he met God in the dark and came out transformed.We'll talk about why so many of us answer to names that were never ours, why the wrestling is part of the process, and three truths about your name — including why the limp is part of the testimony.If you've been wearing a label someone else put on you, it's time for a rename.

What does it actually mean to live a blessed life? Most people think blessing looks like comfort, success, and approval — but Jesus completely flips that idea upside down.In this message from Matthew 5:7–12, Pastor Mark Cummins walks through the final Beatitudes and reveals four practical, life-changing principles that define what it looks like to truly follow Jesus — not just on the surface, but from the inside out.Here's what we unpack in this message:1. Mirror God's Mercy to Others Bitterness feels like punishment for someone else — but it's actually a prison you build for yourself. The blessed life has open hands, not clenched fists. When you've been forgiven much, you're freed to forgive much.2. Daily Surrender Yourself to God God isn't interested in your highlight reel. He's after your heart. Purity isn't about perfection — it's about undivided devotion. And the parts of yourself you keep hiding are the parts He can't heal.3. Promote the Peace of God You don't win people by winning arguments. Peacemakers aren't people who avoid conflict — they're people who refuse to add fuel to fires Jesus already died to put out.4. Focus on Eternity, Living for Christ Today Persecution isn't a sign you're doing something wrong — it might be a sign you're doing something right. When you live for the applause of heaven, you stop needing the approval of people.Whether you're burned out from people-pleasing, stuck in unforgiveness, or wrestling with whether following Jesus is really worth the cost — this message is for you.

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This week, Pastor Joie preaches on the Goodness of God through Psalm 34:8-10. His goodness can be distorted but also received by us for what it is. Do we receive the good gift of God? Do we see God's goodness in the times in our life where things are "not good."

Does God exist for me or do I exist for Him? The answer is supremely good and the key to loving God.

What is shaping your thought life right now?In today's episode of Faith For Anxious Moms Podcast, we're talking about how your daily rhythms of intake, what you consume, and—most importantly—how what you believe about God directly impact your mindset, perspective and decisions in front of you.Because the truth is:your thoughts don't just happen… they're formed.Through a personal story about how a simple habit shift affected my mindset, and a powerful look at David's life in 1 Samuel and Psalm 59, we unpack how David—while being hunted and hiding—anchored his thoughts in what he knew to be true about God:God is our strength, our refuge, and full of steadfast love.And that same truth is available to you today.Friend, you don't have to stay stuck in negative thinking. God's word shows us his strength and provides tons of examples. You can experience peace, clarity, and a renewed mind through spending time with God and being rooted in His Word.Whether you are a working mom, SAHM, empty nester or in the thick of school aged kids just trying to stay sane while trying to point your kids to Christ, I believe Scripture is the answer to our daily perspective.Scripture referenced:1 Samuel, Psalm 11, Psalm 59, John 10:10Don't miss my new announcement from Episode 100!And if you are wanting to find consistency in your quiet time, daily devotional, spending time in God's presence, I would love to help. Check the show notes below for more info!Quiet Time CoachLeave a ReviewBecome an InsiderLynn's DevotionalBLOGInstagramLYNN's Amazon StorefrontLinktree

What's the biblical relationship between seeing and believing? Join AMBrewster to learn how to help your kids see God God working so they can believe Him even when they don't see Him working.Truth.Love.Parent. is a podcast of Truth.Love.Family., an Evermind Ministry.Action Steps Purchase “Quit: how to stop family strife for good.” https://amzn.to/40haxLz Support our 501(c)(3) by becoming a TLP Friend! https://www.truthloveparent.com/donate.html Download the Evermind App. https://evermind.passion.io/checkout/102683 Use the promo code EVERMIND at MyPillow.com. https://www.mypillow.com/evermind  Discover the following episodes by clicking the titles or navigating to the episode in your app: The Merest Christianity https://www.truthloveparent.com/the-merest-christianity-series.html  The Celebration of God https://www.truthloveparent.com/how-to-use-the-celebration-of-god.html  Creation Week https://www.truthloveparent.com/creation-week.html  Parenting Suffering Children https://www.truthloveparent.com/parenting-suffering-children.html  Parenting Sorrowing Children https://www.truthloveparent.com/parenting-sorrowing-children.html  Creating Community https://www.truthloveparent.com/taking-back-the-family-blog/tlp-198-creating-community  Your Family Needs to Go to Church https://www.truthloveparent.com/your-family-needs-to-go-to-church-series.html  Click here for Today's episode notes, resources, and transcript: https://www.truthloveparent.com/taking-back-the-family-blog/tlp-631-your-kids-need-to-see-god-working Download the Evermind App! https://evermind.passion.io/checkout/102683Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TruthLoveParent/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truth.love.parent/Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TruthLoveParentPin us on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/TruthLoveParent/Subscribe to us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTHV-6sMt4p2KVSeLD-DbcwClick here for more of our social media accounts: https://www.truthloveparent.com/presskit.htmlNeed some help? Write to us at Counselor@TruthLoveParent.com.

Grab your Bible and join us as we take up the vital question: What are the attributes of God? The answer is simple yet profound: The attributes of God are those perfections inherent in the Divine nature which the Bible reveals concerning God. These are not abstract ideas or human inventions. They are the very perfections that make God God. They are coherent, consistent, and without contradiction in His being.

Pastor Jordan Boyce is preaching The Ascension: What Now?

Do you want to experience God's supernatural presence in your life? Rabbi Schneider shares the steps you can take to experience God's presence today. **** BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER - https://djj.show/YTAPartner   **** DONATE - https://djj.show/YTADonate  **** TEACHING NOTES - https://djj.show/4ze 

The world today is full of false signs and false prophets. Learn how to discern when the supernatural is from God and when it is not. **** BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER - https://djj.show/YTAPartner   **** DONATE - https://djj.show/YTADonate  **** TEACHING NOTES -  https://djj.show/tkc 

The Bible says that when God saves us, Jesus is living inside of us.  Learn how to connect with Jesus and hear the voice of God inside of you. **** BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER - https://djj.show/YTAPartner  **** DONATE - https://djj.show/YTADonate  **** TEACHING NOTES -   https://djj.show/1wy 

James 4:2–3 reminds us of a simple but often overlooked truth: sometimes we don’t experience what God offers because we don’t ask for it. In seasons of stress, responsibility, and духов pressure, it’s easy to rely on our own strength instead of turning to God for the grace we desperately need. Yet His grace isn’t limited—it’s available, sufficient, and meant to sustain us daily. Highlights We often miss out because we don’t ask God for what we need God’s grace is available daily—but requires dependence Stress can tempt us to rely on control instead of surrender Right motives matter when bringing requests to God God meets us in weakness, not in self-sufficiency Prayer is the pathway to experiencing sustaining grace His strength becomes evident when we reach our limits Have an idea for our newsletter? We want to hear from you! Take our survey below: Take Our Survey! Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Diligently Asking for God’s Sustaining Grace By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading:“…You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions” (James 4:2-3, ESV). When we are taking steps in obedience to God, the resistance to moving forward grows stronger, and it feels like we are treading through mud just to take a step. My husband, Paul, and I have been experiencing this since we started leading a new ministry at our church, while juggling all the rest of our responsibilities, caring for our boys, and our own individual lives. Even though it’s exhausting and sometimes discouraging when things feel so chaotic and stressful, I must remind my heart that our God is stronger and will use whatever seems to be standing against us (especially our own sinful flesh!) to grow and deepen our faith and sanctify us. But this doesn’t mean it isn’t painful or that I am quick to learn how to depend on Him!Personally, I am working on resting in the new mercies of today and being quick to repent and ask for forgiveness. I feel like I have failed a lot in my behavior towards Paul and my boys these last few weeks. I don’t want to blame it on hormones and lack of sleep (although I know this adds fuel to the fire, so to speak). Because God’s grace is available to me. But am I asking for it diligently? Probably not as much as I should.If His grace is truly sufficient (and it is), do I live like I’m dependent upon it daily and praying without ceasing throughout my day? The book of James is a wonderful guide for believers. In chapter 4, we discover that we must protect our hearts from worldly thinking. Often, when we are trying to take control of our lives and not rest in God’s grace and provision daily, we resort to either neglecting God’s ever-present help or asking God with wrong motives:“…You do not have, because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions” (James 4:2-3, ESV). James 4 merely tells us that if we want something, we should ask God for it rather than resort to sinful means. It stands to reason that there are some things that we will not get unless we ask for them, but if we ask, we will receive them. So, if there is something that we want, we need to ask. Christians should be praying and asking God, especially for His supernatural grace. Intersecting Faith & Life:Instead of trying to control what feels so uncontrollable in our lives and allowing our circumstances to dictate our mood or behavior, let us boldly come to the throne of grace and ask our Father for His unwavering and sustaining grace. He is faithful to provide. We must remember that God’s grace is sufficient and that He is our ever-present help in times of need, but sometimes our actions do not reflect these truths. It’s much easier for us to either complain about our stressful, difficult circumstances or take matters into our own hands to fix or change what seems to be causing us to feel so overwhelmed. We must remember to come to the Lord and ask for His grace when we have reached our limits. The Lord is so faithful to provide all things that we need because He is a gracious Father who cares deeply for His children. Let us approach Him as His child today, boldly and humbly asking for His sustaining and powerful grace to carry us through each challenging moment. He is so faithful in every season, especially in the difficult ones. When you feel weak, remember that it is a good thing- that is precisely when you will experience His power and strength that will sustain you and carry you through it all! Further Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Hebrews 4:15-16 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

eries: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: "Will you trust God or take control?"Scripture: Genesis 22:1-24 NIV Hebrews 11:17-19James 1:13-15John 1:29Bottom line: “We handle God's tests by trusting His promises, obeying His voice, and relying on His provision.”INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTOUTLINECONCLUSIONDISCUSSION QUESTIONSNOTESYOUTUBE DESCRIPTIONMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. Bottom line: “We handle God's tests by trusting His promises, obeying His voice, and relying on His provision.”OPENING STORY/ILLUSTRATIONControl vs. TrustImagine you're riding in the passenger seat while someone else is driving…Not just anyone—your spouse, your friend, maybe even your child learning to drive.You're coming up to a busy intersection…You see the light turning yellow…And what do you instinctively do?You reach for the imaginary brake pedal.You lean forward.You tense up.Why?Because you're not in control.And when we're not in control… we feel insecure.That's not just true in a car.It's true in life.Every time we feel insecure, we reach for control.And every time we reach for control, we reveal what we really trust.In Genesis 22, God puts Abraham in the ultimate “passenger seat” moment.God asks him to do something that feels unthinkable… unreasonable… even unbearable.And the question becomes:Will Abraham trust God… or try to take control?CONTEXTThe thread is security. Last week we saw...Abraham seek security through deception (Gen 20)Abraham seek security through control (Gen 21:1–21)Abraham seek security through agreements (Gen 21:22–34)This week, we hope to see Abraham find true security as he learns to trust in God's promises, obey his voice, and rely on his provision.Why does God test us?To reveal what we really trust (pleasing God)To display His worth through our obedience (glorifying God)God tests us to deepen our trust in Him and display His worth through us.Because he's teaching us to trust him as our ultimate security when we're tempted to reach for control.How do we handle God's tests?By trusting his promises,Obeying his voice/word, and Relying on his provisionOr, more specifically…Expect tests from God (1-2)Focus on promises, not explanations (3-5)Depend on God's provision (6-14)Look forward to what God has for you (15-24)Bottom line: “We handle God's tests by trusting His promises, obeying His voice, and relying on His provision.”First, there's a difference between testing and tempting:Temptation (James 1:13–15):“When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.” James‬ ‭1‬:‭13‬-‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬Comes from within and from the enemy → aims to pull us away from God → exposes weakness.Testing (Genesis 22:1):“Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied.” Genesis‬ ‭22‬:‭1‬ ‭NIV‬‬Comes from God → aims to draw us closer to Him → strengthens faith.Temptation is designed to make you fall. Testing is designed to make you stand.Consider how unreasonable God's test was as you consider how we might respond to his tests in our lives…OUTLINE (influenced by Warren Wiersbe & ChatGPT):We handle God's tests in life by:Trusting His promisesObeying His voice (word)Relying on His provisionExpect tests from God. (22:1-2) WW writes, “In the ‘School of Faith' we must have occasional tests, or we will never know where we are spiritually. Abraham had his share of tests right from the beginning.”“Family test” - leave nation, neighborhood and extended family and go“Famine test” - left Canaan and went to Egypt #FAIL“Fellowship test” - let Lot choose which way to go when they split up“Fight test” - rescued Lot and Sodom's citizens and stuff“Fortune test” - declined Sodom's wealth“Fatherhood test” - Sent Hagar & Ishmael away first time #FAIL“Farewell test” - Send Hagar and Ishmael away second timeOne test I faced was baptism. Another was my calling into ministry.Was “baptized” as an infant so didn't believe I needed to be baptized after my conversion; it took 2 pastors and 10 years for me to see the truthWas “called” into full-time ministry within a month or 2 of being baptized leaving successful career in EngineeringIf you walk with God, tests are not the exception—they are the curriculum.Focus on promises, not explanations (3-5) “Faith does not demand explanations; faith rests on promises.” -WW“Our faith is not really tested until God asks us to bear what seems unbearable, do what seems unreasonable, and expect what seems impossible.” -WWWhen God sends a test or trial, our first response is usually, “Why me?” Or “Why, Lord?” Instead of “What can I learn through this?”"Deliverance will get you out of Egypt. But surrender will get Egypt out of you." (Or Sodom, or Babylon, or America...)We live by promises, not by explanations. Abraham says, “We will worship and then we will come back” → implicit faith in resurrection (cf. Hebrews 11:17–19)Faith doesn't need to understand everything—it just needs to trust what God has said.If you wait for God to explain everything, you'll never obey anything.Depend on God's provision (6-14)Two statements reveal the emphasis in this passage:“God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering.” (8), &Yahweh Yireh, “The Lord will see to it.” (14) #provide“Where God guides, He pro-vides.” -Old PastorHow does God provide?Where…does the Lord provide? Where you sent you to walk in his will. Should we expect his provision when we don't walk in his steps?When? Right when it's needed. Sometimes at the last minute. He's never late.How? Often simply. He surprised Abraham with the ram in the thicket right next behind him.To Whom? To those who humbly walk with him. Why? For his pleasure and his glory!What kind of provision is available?Resurrection-powered provisionEphesians 1:19–20 & 3:20You don't experience God's provision sitting on the sidelines—you experience it on the path of obedience.Look forward to what God has after the test. (15-24) What comes after the test?New Approval (12) “Atta boy!”New Son (13-14) → Isaac received backIsaac likely never the same. God gave. Abraham gave back. God gave back.Don't let the gift replace the Giver—Abraham didn'tNew Assurances. (16-18) New names for an expanded future. (14; 23)Yahweh Yireh (14)Rebekah (23)God is already preparing the next chapter while you're still in the test.CONCLUSIONBottom line: “We handle God's tests by trusting His promises, obeying His voice, and relying on His provision.”How do we handle God's tests?By trusting his promises,Obeying his voice/word, and Relying on his provisionEvery test exposes what we trustEvery test invites surrenderEvery test reveals God's sufficiencyWhat is your Isaac?Are you trusting God—or trying to control the outcome?Ram → Lamb → GospelAbraham looks up…and there's a ram caught in the thicket.God provides a substitute.Isaac lives…because something else dies in his place.Pause. Let that sit.Expand the PatternThis moment isn't just about Abraham and Isaac.It's pointing forward.Another Father…another Son…another sacrifice.Connect to ChristIn John 1:29, we read:When John the Baptist saw Jesus, he said,“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.”On that day in Genesis 22—God provided a ram.But one day—God would provide His own Son.⸻In Genesis 22…God stopped Abraham's hand.At the cross…God did not stop His own.Let that land. This is your emotional peak.⸻Why?Because our greatest problem isn't lack of control—it's sin.And our greatest need isn't control—it's a Savior.⸻So the question isn't just:“Will you trust God in the test?”The deeper question is:Will you trust the God who gave everything for you?⸻You don't have to control your life…because the God who tested Abrahamis the God who gave His Son for you—PrayQuestions (Write this down) - grab an index card and penWhat is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?Write this down on the index card in the seat pockets.DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastNOTESYOUTUBE DESCRIPTION MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)"Genesis" by Briscoe (TCC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

First up, the engagement rumours between Harry and Zoe have been swirling for weeks have officially been confirmed by a major outlet. We unpack how some of the world's biggest stars manage to share their life updates without looking "tacky," and why we are officially calling time on the "PR stunt" conspiracy theorists.Plus, production on the new season of one of the world's most anticipated television shows has been thrown into chaos after the A-list lead actress fled the set just days into filming. We dig into the "creative differences" that reportedly led to her sudden departure and look at the wild rumours surrounding who might be stepping in to save the day.And finally, it’s the reality TV leak that has consumed the internet this week. We’re discussing the explosive, top-secret audio recording from the Summer House reunion set that has caused a legal storm, furious producers, and a full-scale digital manhunt to identify the person behind the recording.Love binge-watching TV? The Spill has launched a new podcast called Watch Party where we deep dive into the shows everyone’s talking about. Follow the feed on Apple or Spotify now. Plus remember The Spill drops the tea twice a day in this feed so follow us for all the latest entertainment news… OR you can WATCH our show in full length video on the Apple Podcast app - make sure your phone is up to date and enjoy the watch! Link here. THE END BITSFind and follow us on socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespillpodcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thespillpod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thespillpodcast/ Read all the latest entertainment news on Mamamia: https://mamamia.com.au/entertainment/ Support Independent Women’s Media: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribe/ Your subscription helps us continue to tell the stories that matter to women. SUBSCRIPTION GIVEAWAY:Win a $2,000 Bed Threads voucher. Subscribe to Mamamia here before April 30 to be automatically entered. Current subscriber? You're already in the draw. T&Cs apply. Want to join the conversation? Have feedback or a topic you want us to discuss? Send us a voice message or email us at thespill@mamamia.com.au and we’ll get back to you ASAP! Executive Producer: Monisha Iswaran Audio & Video Producer: Michael Kean Mamamia acknowledges the traditional owners of the land on which we have recorded this podcast. From Mom and Me Out. Welcome to This Spill, your daily pop culture fix. I'm Laura Brodnick and I'm tinner Burk and coming up on the show Shay, real life drama on the White Lotus set with news that the biggest star of the new season has been recast. We're going to get into what really happened, or at least what the reports say are really happening, because it's very messy plus even more drama. It's reality TV meets true crime. The Summer House League explained, and even if you don't like Summer House, you on across it. This was breaking news across the world. There were investigations, celebrities were weighing in. We're going to get into that, but first, some news of a romantic nature.00:38Speaker 2 Yes, some news that you did unpack last week on the Spill, but that has finally we confirmed, And is that Harry Styles is engaged to Zoe Kravitz per People Magazine.00:46Speaker 1 Yeah, so I'm still I mean, I do think they are engaged, just because all the reports are on, I don't know if they're you know, if there's some celebrity couples that are kind of in bed with people and they do covers with them, or they do photo exclusives and things, and so when theyvenues to share, but they don't want to look tucky or they don't want to look like they're sort of fanning the flames of rumors, they'll just have their people confirm two People Magazine. But I don't see Zoey Isabelle Kravatz and Harry I'm sure of his middle name styles doing that.01:14Speaker 3 No, I don't think they're in fair with people.01:16Speaker 2 They're not like like tree Pain calls people up and she gives them the tea on ta like officially not in a bad way, But I don't think they're really like that for sure.01:23Speaker 1 Well, the reason they do that is they're not like some of the other tabloids. I mean, they're not tabloid. And sometimes they do if they run a room, they mark in rumor, which is fair enough, we all do it. But I guess the way that like someone like a tree Pain whose tailor swifts, pubblicers would do that because it's one of the quickest ways to clarify or put out a rumor, and the People Magazine team never breathe a word of it, even though it's kind of widely known who they're speaking to, so it's kind of like a win win situation.01:49Speaker 3 I'm not sure if Zoe and Harry's team.01:52Speaker 1 Is confirming to them, it's probably just someone there in a circle because they're not trying to hide it. Has yaid like yeah, because the quotes are very like, yeah, they're engaged.01:59Speaker 3 She really like three Yeah, thank god.02:02Speaker 2 Because I'd be weird if you didn't. I do think like, first of all, like shout out to all the haters last week who said it was a PR relationship and who.02:09Speaker 1 Oh my god, people, I never live in the fantasy world that these people live, where they think that celebrities get married, have children, spend their whole lives being photographed for PR.02:21Speaker 3 Sometimes for a movie they didn't even want to do.02:23Speaker 2 Yeah, people were like, it's a ring from her line. They're not engaged, is all I have to say to that. But anyone who's fanna Harry like saw it coming as well, because he did all those interviews for like American Girls. His song from his album which I cannot say kissing sometimes and discoing occasionally.02:38Speaker 3 That's the name of the song.02:39Speaker 2 No, that's his badly paraphrased album. The song name is American Girls. No, that should be a song. It should be a song name. But on American Girls. He literally like did a whole interview being like I assessed my life and I saw where do I want to be in five years. I want a family, I want kids, So I do think he was just like, right, Zoe Kravitz, it's with you.02:55Speaker 1 Everyone falls in love with Zoe Kravitz when they date her, like, yeah, we couldn't beating away. Yes, yeah, And she's only said yes three times that we know.03:03Speaker 3 Of, and this is the third one and this is the third.03:05Speaker 1 But she's if you're like the that's high odds if you're getting proposed to all the time, as I believe she.03:09Speaker 2 Would, Yeah, j Reckon, everyone has like did Michael faspend a late day?03:13Speaker 3 And she was like, can badly tried? He would?03:15Speaker 1 He would write it off now, but you just know that boy was like, please marry me, and she was like, no.03:19Speaker 2 No, I can't, pen Bactually I've got other people to marry exactly.03:22Speaker 1 Well. Someone she did say yes to was Channing Tatum, who's done in her movie Blink twice yea, and he put up a little Instagram comment this week that I'm actually kind of more invested in because like the engagement room is, I'm like still a rumor. I'll really believe it when I don't know if we'll see wedding photos. As we said previously, she did share a lot of photos from her wedding to Carl and they had that chic Parisian wedding where she wore the ballet flats. Yeah, but I don't know if this time around the level of fame and intrusion around the two of them, whether they will.03:51Speaker 3 But we'll see.03:52Speaker 1 But anyway, I just want everyone to spare a thought for Channing Tatum today because as news of the engagement was confirmed, I mean it's with the timeline, like definitely within the few days it was confirmed, but in the hour that after People Magazine fran I'm just saying there's.04:07Speaker 3 A correlation and that man like that man's been.04:09Speaker 1 Super famous for a long time. He has dated a lot of high profile women. Channing Tatum knows what he posting his Instagram story will be picked up as part of the news story, so he wanted us to know. I believe how he's feeling right now. So Channing Tatum posted this poem to his Instagram story, My brain and Heart divorced a decade ago over who was to blame about how big of a mess I have become? Eventually they couldn't be in the same room with each other.04:38Speaker 2 It's very Chloe Kardashian of him. Why why Kloia Kardashian, She's always sharing a cryptic Instagram Oh, you should spend more time on her Instagram story.04:46Speaker 1 No, I used to like love following all the Kartashians on Instagram when they would like film inside their like houses and shows, like when it was like kind of like an unedited version of their reality TV.04:54Speaker 2 Now it's like sponsorship, sponsor, sponship. Well, she's still sometimes she has a poem, so you got to get in there. I'm not I'm not going back into the story. I think Channing and he's like, Okay, that's what you do.05:03Speaker 1 We can't be in the same room together. Feels very pointed. I'm sure one day in some magazine profile when he's there's a photo of him looking soulfully off into the distance, a reporter probably from Vanity Fair, We'll ask him about this and he'll be like, no, it was just it was just about my heart and my head kind are the timing? Yeah, like we couldn't be in the same room together.05:23Speaker 3 What do we think?05:23Speaker 2 What's interesting because when they broke up, obviously they were doing press for Blink twice, and they kept saying like the nicest things about each other. I mean, you're not going to go out and be like she's the worst. But at the time they were still really complimentary of each other. And then I kind of think that now it's just like, oh, maybe he's a bit sad.05:38Speaker 3 Oh, I bet he's sad.05:39Speaker 1 No, I bet he's one thing is okay, And first of all, I'm not shading Channing Tatum.05:43Speaker 3 I actually quite like that man. I like him.05:47Speaker 1 He's just a dufist who also has a bit of like a good head on his shoulders for like producing and making movies and kind of and like was like instrumental and kind of building out the magic mic Bran into like a feminist masterpiece. If you've seen this stage show, well, yeah, the stage show is a feminist masterpiece. And I know here's people around him who do that. Ye, Because the one time I think he really could have been outed as a Hollywood jerk was when the Sony email league happened.06:11Speaker 3 Oh do you remember all of his because.06:13Speaker 1 He was like really in bed with Sony with like making Magic Mind and all his movies. I'm not like he could be a terrible person behind the scenes. I'm just saying, like, yeah, he's see I lovely. His private emails were leaked and there are a lot of celebrities who came out of that looking badly, but his were just like, yeah, baby, our movie is so good, like, yeah, we did this, thanks so much for your help, and I'm just getting how are you little? By all accounts greaker, Yeah, exactly. And you know, I feel like Zoe Kravitz wouldn't date a bit of us. She was probably just kind of got like they made that movie together. She was directing, he was the star. They were like really kind of like this creative partnership. And I feel like, maybe, as you're saying, when they kind of finished it and they're just sitting in their apartment together, just the two of them, that's when you go, huh, yeah, maybe is it forever?06:53Speaker 2 And maybe that's what he means by sharing this poem. At this time, he's like he's like my head and my heart couldn't agree, and like maybe in his heart he liked her, but in his head he was like, oh, well, she's not the one for me. No, I feel like she broke up with him for sure. Wasn't that the vibe? I mean, probably she does have the vibe of someone who would like aways with him. Yeah, she's not the nun percent.07:13Speaker 1 And I think the catalyst might have been member when he posted that photo of her sleeping.07:18Speaker 3 You think she saw that photo and she went too much. I think she got the ick.07:21Speaker 1 I think she already had the ike because they were back from filming, like they're on an island and they're like.07:25Speaker 3 Filming on location.07:26Speaker 1 They're making this like intense movie, and she was like, oh my god, he's an incredible like filmmaker and actor and we're collaborators. And I think they got back to their apartment and where they're just having their downtime. And that's when it's why so many people like broke up during lockdown. It's like, oh, do I really want to sit on the couch to this person forever?07:41Speaker 3 Not really? And then he posted this photo.07:44Speaker 1 Of her sleeping and with a lovely caption about how creative and credible she was, but it did give an air of desperation that he knew she was one foot out the door, and he tried to win her back with an Instagram story. And now he's posting to an Instagram story about his heartbreak.07:59Speaker 2 It's very poetic and lovely when you think about it.08:01Speaker 3 I mean, I don't love it.08:02Speaker 2 If I was him, I would keep quiet and like keep someone lure and mystery the moment in time.08:07Speaker 1 And also he's in his early forties and he's dating I believe they're still together a woman in her I'm going to say late twenties, mid twenties. Yeah, so at the end of the day all met at the same And also he's fine. I'm so can you imagine being her today? You're like, Hey, did you just post a cryptic messages?08:22Speaker 3 Yeah? Ex got engaged to Harry Styles.08:23Speaker 1 Interesting choice, Yeah, interesting, Well thoughts and pros with that girl when I'm really thinking of Yeah, I'm sure everyone else is fine.08:28Speaker 3 Yeah.08:30Speaker 2 So production on season four of The White Lotus officially kicked off this week in France, and we were all very excited about it because the car sounded really incredible. It is sort of a new French location vibe. We're not on a boat now, we're near where there are boats. So essentially this one is going to be like set at the Can Film Festival. There's going to be two luxury hotels, the Hotel Martinez, which will be like the White Lotus Can. So they've moved away from filming at four Seasons for this one, and then the next will be the Chateau Della. I'm going to say this is really bad Messadier in Santrope, which is going to be the White Lotus do cap. So it's kind of like a rich, luxurious background. There's gonna be Ken Film Festival filming, which will actually kick off on May twelve, So I think they're actually going to film at the festival, which is cool, and we'll be a lot of fun because I'm sure there will be some celebrity cameos. But the actual cast itself was very impressive when it was first announced. So you've got like Alexander Ludwig, who I know from The Hunger Games but other people would know from Vikings, AJ Michayla, Steve Coogan, Christmasina, Sandra Bernhard, Max Greenfield. The most exciting one though, was when Helena Bodham Carter was announced, so she was one of the first ones announced. It was all very tizzy and very exciting because also as much as I love her, she's not necessarily I would think someone i'd picture on the White Loaders.09:42Speaker 3 I don't know about you.09:43Speaker 1 No, no, no, she doesn't really do TV like she does. She is kind of u She's a character actress, but she does a lot of big blockbusters. And she's also very careful that she said now also at this point her career of what she says yes to and who she wants to work with. She is one of those actresses who is which is only a small number of women in Hollywood who get a huge amount of offers and can actually pick and choose what they want. And she has also been very vocal in the past of only working with certain directors and filmmakers. So one like, she's a huge star. She's definitely the biggest name of this cast by far. And it was kind of an unwritten thing from Mike White, who's the creator and writer of The White Lotus, that she was going to be the center point or the lynchpin for the story. So you got this idea that they had met many times they had this collaboration and he had kind of centered everything around her. And the crazy thing is like recasting a role, even a huge role like that, is not unheard of, you know, like a Hollywood production or a TV show, but very very rarely when you're on set, especially a set like this where you've brought because famously the White loatus doesn't film in chunks and different locations. They bring the whole cast together and kind of lock them in. There's like summer camp vibe at like a beautiful resort and location and kind of shoot it all in one go with everyone on set at the same time. So the fact now that the star has led the premises is crazy.11:03Speaker 3 Yes.11:03Speaker 2 So over the weekend, it was announced to The Hollywood Reporter that Helena was dropping out of season four and it was quote like just days into shooting, so that actually started and then all of this happens. So what the Hollywood Reporter has said is with filming just underway in season four, it's become apparent that the character Mike White created for Helena Bonham Carter did not align once they got to say it, once they started filming. And this is from a HBO spokesperson, so it's also not rumor. Yeah, they said the role has subsequently been rethought, they're rewriting it. It's going to be recast in the next few weeks. The producers and Mike White are sad and they won't get to work with her, but they remain quote ardent fans and very much hope to work with the legendary actress on another project soon. So obviously that came out over the weekend, very formal, very official.11:44Speaker 1 It is, And like, I just I just feel like something bigger has definitely happened. Yeah, for like production to be stopped like that and for her to just like not be in the role at all, and what kind of creative differences have happened behind the scenes for them not to be able to get this character to work in this setting, because it is a huge deal now in the middle of production, and Mike White is you know, he speaks about being so meticulous about his casting because the casting is really what makes the White lotus every year because it's the same formula. We know there's going to be a death, that it's the sort of the same thing over and over again. The only thing that we're really tuning in for is all these different characters and their dynamics and how they come across. And so he has said before he's so specific about who he casts, and other actresses have said that we don't usually audition, but we auditioned for the White Lotus because that's just what you have to do. And he writes parts for people sometimes, like he did for Helen Us. So I just feel like something quite crazy has happened. I mean, not even crazy. I just want to for it got there and he was giving her direction to notes and she was just like doing her interpretation because that's what she kind of does, like she interprets her characters, and it just didn't align to the point that she hopped on a private jet out of there.12:56Speaker 2 And I love her deally and she is an excellent actress, but I also feel a lot of the time when I see her on screen, it is very similar, and I do, Yeah, I wonder if you're right, and like maybe the vibe of what he wanted to bring out in her just wasn't what she wanted to give.13:09Speaker 3 Maybe, yeah, I mean, also don't I mean, I don't know.13:11Speaker 1 I think also, you get to a stage in your career, and like I feel like Helena would be there where She's been in the industry for like well over three decades now, and you kind of get an idea of like how you want to work and how you want to shape things. And she is such a if you listen to interviews with her, likeath interviews that she's done, she's such a kind of like on Hollywood Straight Talker and doesn't stuffer fools. Not that I think my wife is a fool, but I also just think that like she just got there and she it didn't really work out. I guess the one kind of good thing is that because they have all the casts there, they've been able to pull all of the scenes forward, so they haven't had to fly people in and like all that sort of stuff. They've just been able to keep filming while they recast this role. Yeah, but it's I mean, it does happen sometimes. Remember when Stuart townsmen I mean not remember because we're not there, went to the Lord of the Ring set and started filming the role of Aragon and then they're like, it's actually it's not going to work, so you just need to sorry, like thanks for coming to New Zealand thanks for putting on the outfit. Yeah, and we're going to fly you out. And an actor called Vigo moreess fly little guy, pay no attention to you put on the way.14:13Speaker 3 I mean, it has to happen.14:14Speaker 2 Sometimes sometimes you do get to set and realize that a dynamic or a grouping doesn't work, or that like, hey, you did a chem test, but actually as we try to bring it together, it's not working. Yeah, which is something The Daily Mail has suggested. So an anonymous source has told The Daily Mail that the word is Helena left because of a clash with Sandra Bernhard.14:33Speaker 1 I mean, I kind of almost want that to be true. I would like it to be true.14:38Speaker 2 They're denying the claim, but I'm interested to know if something has happened.14:43Speaker 1 If that happened, that will definitely come out, because it'll come out from Sandra or Helena, Like one of them will say it.14:49Speaker 3 Yeah. They won't keep that quiet. They just don't.14:51Speaker 1 They're not on social They're not going to like tweet it or instare it or anything like that. But one of them will say it one day and like.14:56Speaker 2 Potentially, yeah, it could come out in an interview one day.14:59Speaker 3 I mean the White.15:00Speaker 2 This is like known for having a scandal here and there.15:02Speaker 1 It's always one scandal every season, but it's like almost like scandal light.15:07Speaker 3 It's just like they're never crazy.15:08Speaker 1 It's never like, as far as we know, like a big blowout fight or it's never like, you know, two married people hooking up.15:15Speaker 3 I think it's.15:16Speaker 2 Because not that they were married, but Ami Leewood and Wilton Goggins on following each other and that whole drama.15:21Speaker 3 Yeah, yeah, I was that crazy, but that was crazy.15:24Speaker 2 That was even still that felt drama light because they kind of buried it and did stuff together afterwards.15:28Speaker 3 Yeah, yeah, no, that's definitely That's definitely the big one.15:31Speaker 1 But I normally get the vibe that it doesn't spill over into social it's more just like as if like your colleagues and you are away for a month and like all these alter personal dramas and and all the stuff like blow up around like who's going to the beach together and who's going to lunch? And then everyone said they all organize a dinner every night, and like not everyone goes to every dinner like politics.15:51Speaker 2 Well yeah, last season it was something to do as well with like Jason Isaacs not getting on with everyone, and then he just kept dropping tea and everyone.15:58Speaker 1 Get Jason Isaacs on set. He was the only one giving us information last time around, and it's just unfortunate he wasn't super cross what was happening, because you just know that if he knew what was happening.16:10Speaker 2 We would know get him on the New white Land, we'd be getting like a four part Red Carpet Answer series.16:15Speaker 1 I know.16:15Speaker 2 So obviously now they're like working to figure out who's going to be the new Helena Bonham Carter. Like while actively filming, as you said, they're able to kind of bring forward other scenes. But there are rumors that Jennifer Tilley is in talks to replace her.16:29Speaker 3 That would I think that's a good fit.16:31Speaker 2 Yeah, so if anyone who doesn't know, she's currently a real housewife of Beverly Hills and a successful career poker player, but she's also like an Academy or nominee. She's like Chucky. He loves that sort of like a bit of stunt cast. Yeah, a stunt casting. I am intrigued of, like what exactly that role entailed that you would replace someone like Helena with someone like Jennifer.16:51Speaker 3 Yeah, that's a that's a swing, isn't it.16:53Speaker 1 I just like when you said that, I was like, oh, that kind of makes sense because Mike White like it's crazy. Well, no, yes, he is a creative genie. But like, if you didn't want Helena, why would you go and cast another like critically acclaimed British actors, do you know what I mean? Like, yeah, obviously whatever he wanted from that character is not he's not getting from her, and she can do like she does like a lot of times, do a similar kind of vibe of her, like quirky character, but got the rain. She has a lot of range, and so he couldn't get it out of her. Maybe the right thing to do is to go in completely the opposite direction and get the poker playing housewife to do it.17:31Speaker 3 Because otherwise you're just recasting the same kind of actress and they would she would give the same kind of thing.17:35Speaker 2 Yeah, And I mean, like, not a lot is known at this stage, but I'm assuming with her being one of the first that she was also going to be one of the most central to the plotline. So it's also like very important obviously that they get this right to fit in with everyone else. But also you don't have much time. This isn't like a case of like, oh, we've got years to film, like they can't film festival starts in two weeks.17:54Speaker 1 Yeah, and they're clearly going to film it, and they only have these like locations booked out for a certain amount of time. It's because book out a hotel that is your set and also where the carts live, and you only had that hotel.18:04Speaker 3 I mean, I'm sure there's a buffer.18:06Speaker 1 On either end, not us getting worried about the production timeline. For the White Loaders, there's a buffer on either end, but like how big is that buffer? Yeah, because they're shooting quite quickly and you only have all those actors on hold for a certain amount of time to shoot, and then they often have built into their contracts like to come back and do reshoots. But again, the White Lotus films so differently, yes, that they usually do knock it all over in like one series, and everyone like leaves the camp they've been staying at.18:31Speaker 3 Yeah, it's absolutely wild.18:32Speaker 2 What I do hope happens though, is that they set an entire episode in like the period of a standing ovation at camp because gos for like twenty minutes. If you had different povs, you could fill a forty minute episode.18:43Speaker 1 It's an entire episode just from a standing ovation point of view, and like, I'm sure they will absolutely again Mike White, he's on the case.18:49Speaker 2 He's a bit busy on the case. He's lost his cast, but he's on the case otherless.18:54Speaker 1 So this is the year that I became very invested in reality TV because.18:59Speaker 3 Of the show. Well done to me. I thought I was better than everyone else.19:02Speaker 1 Turns out I'm not mad, and that was because of a show called Summer House. I've also never been into true crime before, but recently I find myself very invested in true crime also because of Summer House.19:16Speaker 2 Yeah, you put on your little FBI hat and you're ready to go.19:18Speaker 3 Me and everyone else in the world.19:20Speaker 1 Like, if you've been on any sort of social media platform grouped had anything over the last couple of days, you would have heard about the Summer House league breaking news. Obviously, big things happening in the world, but this was a bit of a fun for all of us. So, as we've said before on two episodes that we've covered, this, Summer House a reality TV show on Bravo that's been running for ten seasons, is in the midst of a huge scandal because two cast members, Amanda Patula and West.19:45Speaker 3 I want to say, Wilson not important. That man isn't Wes Wilson.19:49Speaker 1 The name of Ryan Reynolds in Deadpool is I don't know something to information, No, I know, I don't think it is. Those two hooked up and confirmed their relationship, which was a huge drama because Amanda was newly separated from her husband, Kyle Cook, also a member of the Summer House, actually a founding member since season one. But the bigger thing was is that Sierra Miller, a very beloved star of Summer House, had had a very intense relationship love story with West and was very very close friends with Amanda. So betrayal across the board. So up until this moment, people involved in the situation have given a few interviews. Wes did like a little meandering story on his podcast. Amanda put up something on her Instagram story saying she had to get it to real life, but she knows she's hurt people. Kyle Cook's giving interviews on the street. Sierra did a Glummer magazine cover kind of explaining her story. But everyone has really been waiting for the Summer House reunion because if you don't watch Bravo, which I personally didn't until the last year and a half, is that they released the season and then a few like well many months after the season has wrapped, but a few weeks after the final episode has aired, they have a reunion hosted Andy Cohen where all the carts come back together and they look back on this season and they have a few laughs, but mostly they air grievances and they fight out kind of things that have happened. So all eyes have been on the Summer House and reunion because not since scandal, not since the vander Pump Rules situation, with a cheating scandal of a much more intense but equally important kind of layer, not since that happened have people been tuned in for a reunion like they have for the Summer House reunion. And then we found out it was happening, and the casts were pictured going into the reunion. They were pictured leaving West and Amanda very infamously were photographed leaving together.21:37Speaker 3 She was wrapped in a blanket. I'm sure why.21:40Speaker 1 It's very cool, stressful, Well, she wasn't covering her face, but maybe she just needed a security blanket. And then like everyone's like, it's this brand of blanket, and then the brand came out, was like it's not us, we wouldn't be associated.21:51Speaker 3 So like tensions were high.21:52Speaker 1 Yeah, and Andy Cohen even filmed himself afterwards being like, okay, we filmed the Summer House reunion and he said, you know, I've been doing this for a long time. I've done over one hundred reunions and nothing I've seen has been as intense as this. And everyone's like, oh my god, this is going to be crazy. And then a day or so later, a piece of audio from the Lockdown Secretive set was leaked online and no one can even trace like where it just like it just appeared all of a sudden.22:19Speaker 3 It was just everywhere. I was convinced it was Ai. I was like, you're not going to get me today, I.22:23Speaker 1 Know exactly, and everyone's like, this is Siero, this is a man. I'm like, no, it's not like I listen to it and it was an audio leak from set. Now we're not going to play it because one legal issues, but a bigger, a bigger issue is that Andy Cohen asked everyone not to. He's like, yes, Andy Cohen took a real approach. He has been very intense about this. That man has been through the ring. Oh my god, the like it broke kind of late at night and then like looking like I was watching it all unfold on like threads and Insta comments and TikTok comments and like it was everywhere and everyone was like, oh my god, this leak is crazy, this audio is crazy, and so many fans are like, don't look, Andy, don't look when you wake up. And then when Andy Cahn woke up, he's like, I've seen it. He's replying to fans. He's like, I've seen it. I'm on my way to have eye surgery. Oh my way to ie surgery. He's like, I'm so disappointed, and this person will be found. So the audio itself, you listened to it, right.23:14Speaker 2 Yeah, In my favorite parties they do will have kind of different accents. So you're like, cool, that's siarah great. Yeah, oh you can se clearly.23:20Speaker 1 Yeah, I guess because they're sitting on a sound stage and they're micd So even though we'll get to how the recording happened, but like it's clear as day what everyone is saying. And so you hear Kyle kind of questioning West and Amanda. You hear Lindy another cast from the show who's like very outspoken and is a real kind of like tell the truth kind of person, sort of calling them out. You hear Wes just bumbling away like a slimeless and I don't dislike Wes, but like this a few years ago when he treated Sierra really badly, said he was in love with her, pursued her for a whole season. She finally kind of gave in to him. He's like, this is a nice guy. He took her to meet his family, and she has like a different relationship with her family. This is getting the weeds, and she was like, this is and she's like and also there's a huge racial element too, because Sarah was the first woman of color to be a main cast member on the show, and when she was with West, when the breakup happened, she got a lot of really racially charged hate against her. And then it's been a thing on the show of all the guys want to hook up with herb but that don't actually want to date her and be her girlfriend.24:21Speaker 3 And she's had to talk about the fact that and.24:23Speaker 1 She's like a real relationshippy girl. Yeah exactly. And she was like, you guys don't understand like the extra layer of like we all get fan criticism being on a reality TV show, but the extra layer of criticism and backlash that I get and the way people talk about me in the way I get treated, the way publications talk about me is so so so different.24:41Speaker 3 So West took her.24:42Speaker 1 To meet his family and then that was a big deal for her, as it would be for anyone, Like she's not crazy. She was like, Oh, this guy really likes me, and like all this happened off camera, so this was like a real relationship happening away from the camera. And then he broke up with her via an op ed in the New York Times.24:58Speaker 2 People need to stop doing New York Times opinions. I mean, because I love it, but like stop.25:02Speaker 1 Yeah.25:02Speaker 3 He was like, yeah, I just don't think that we were each other's person. That's okay.25:06Speaker 1 And then she was like, how about you tell me that before you go off and like give interviews about how I'm not your person anyway. So the rest of Summer House since Nan has been about them sort of coming back together, and here ty Win her back and just this week, as the audio leak was happening, they had a whole episode dedicated to them going off and having this really intense conversation and crying, and they ended up hugging and hugging and hugging and she was like, I think we can be best friends again.25:31Speaker 2 Do you think the producers went back and changed the season storyline potentially, yes, so that we got more of this, Yes.25:38Speaker 3 I think.25:39Speaker 1 I mean, yeah, it is hard to say, because they do have the footage for a long time, and they do like there is the potential to have it edited and had the whole season set before it comes out. I don't think they kind of show that's editing in like almost like real time to yeah, like it's me mass but yeah, exactly. It's not the kind of show where they're editing week to week. But the way that this last few episodes have been constructed with like so much on Western Sierra, but also so much on like how West and Amanda.26:07Speaker 2 Yeah, there was where she bought him a drink and I was like, this is suspicious.26:11Speaker 3 I know, Kyle's like right there, and I like all that poor silly beare.26:16Speaker 1 So yeah, potentially they have just added in I don't think they've changed like so much of what happened to storyline, because it is kind of set while they're filming, like they have producers coming over and tellme, like, now you guys are going to have an argument. You guys are going to do this, so we're going to film you guys together. But I do wonder if they added in a few more scenes because now that show has so many more eyes on it. So the audio came out, and so it's Kyle questioning them, it's Lindsay chiming In, It's Jesse Solomon, who's another cast member who was like really good friends with West chiming In. It's West being like, oh, the reason we put that statement out is because everything just blew up so fast, and like very famously last time Sierra confronted him about breaking up with her public and he just said nothing the whole time, like he he doesn't have a like a back bone when these things happen. The big kind of moment from this leaked audio that made it so explosive was like it really showed us the moment where Siara and Amanda have their confrontation.27:13Speaker 3 The audio kind of picks up where.27:14Speaker 1 Amanda is saying like, you can't help who you like, and you can't help what you do in this situation. And she was like, you know, I'm single, and Siah's like, you're not. You're still legally married. And then Amanda fires back to her, what was I supposed to do, like stay celibate until I get divorced, until a judge signs the papers.27:30Speaker 3 What was I supposed to do? Never date anyone?27:32Speaker 1 And then Siah's coming back and saying, but you didn't have to date like your friend's ex. And then she and this is a really explosive part, she goes, you are a sneak in the grass, Amanda, silent but deadly. You are a sneak, can you men?27:45Speaker 2 And it's amazing because Sierra's accent is so fucking delightful, Like, oh my god, I love when she speaks.27:50Speaker 3 She's on the South. Yeah, it's so good. Fair enough look for me.27:54Speaker 2 I don't think anything's ever going to top Ariana telling Rachel when scandal happened, like go fuck yourself with the cheese grater.28:00Speaker 3 That was crazy. So we haven't seen the whole reunion, but that is a.28:02Speaker 2 Close second, and it showed like I just think at the end of the day, like what we do remember but Alo sometimes forget is these are real people, yah, and this is happening in real time, Like that reunion was fresh after all of this happened, So like, I love that she got a moment to stand up for herself, but it's still just like and apparently.28:18Speaker 1 They did film for about ten hours, so that's like the clip itself is like forty seconds. Oh. The other thing that was confirmed that we talked about when this news first broke, which I always said, ikey of true and now it is true, is that Amanda said their hand was forced because an intimate video was taken. So there was always this rumor that the whole story broke because someone filmed her and West in his apartment like before they're about to have sex some while she was getting changed and they were talking about the video. So in this Amanda was saying, so she's like, I hadn't seen the video, but like we had to get a statement out before the video was released.28:50Speaker 3 And there's a rumor that.28:51Speaker 1 Ceria met with a fan who had the video. So that's all still to come.28:54Speaker 3 Yeah.28:55Speaker 1 So then everyone started questioning, well, who leaked the video? And first of all, or I turned to the cast of Summer House and everyone was trying to figure out who was sitting where, and they were like, it's it must have been kJ, who's like a new cast member came in his West friend now very off West in his team Sierra everyone, so you can tell by the sound the audio that it's kJ And someone's like, no, no, no, it's Jesse. When he talks, his voice is like a slightly different level to everyone else.29:21Speaker 3 And then everyone's like, no, no, no, it was Kyle.29:23Speaker 1 And then there was even a theory that went for a long time that it was Amanda and West who put it out because they.29:29Speaker 3 They would be a bad move.29:30Speaker 1 I mean, who would even know at this stage, but that was the story. Everyone's like, oh, West and Amanda have leaked it themselves. Was the room for a long time because they were unsure of how it was going to be edited together and where they would get a villain edit. And they thought that bit of them saying like, well, our hand was forced. A video was out there. We had to do this right. We like him saying like we had to get that statement at her saying like, well, you can't help her, you like would put them in a better favor than an edited version. So that all happened. All the different Summer House people were saying no it was and asked like all the cast members. Kyle Cook put up a video saying it wasn't him. And he also said like when we're filming these reunions, security on set is really tight, and you have your phone with you, it has to be turned off and like zipped into one of the couch cushions. So he's like, how would you even get it out without anyone scene to film it.30:17Speaker 2 I mean you could just pressure record before you went in, Kyle, but plot hole anyway.30:21Speaker 3 Well, I think they get checked that they're turned off.30:23Speaker 1 They're like everyone's phone turned off, like they like they've been doing this.30:26Speaker 3 For twenty years. Like you feel like if someone's gonna like it.30:29Speaker 1 Yeah, And he also said that all the hair and mancup people who come out and do the touch ups are locked dinner not locked. I'm sure they can go to the bathroom and get water. They get taken back to the makeup room. So then on set for filming and then they get brought out for touch ups. So he's like, so they couldn't record either, And then the roommate came out that it was potentially someone from production who there was like speakers in other rooms because you know, like you have the feedback in the audio and stuff that they had put a phone up against a speaker to recorders or hell broke loose.30:58Speaker 2 Yes, and like he was like, it's disgusting and illegal. Yeah, he was like intense, Oh my god, he was.31:04Speaker 1 So he was like, this person will be found and if it was you, like you know, watch exactly, and he's like, we don't tolerate this. And it was so funny because I saw so many people being like, oh my god, it wasn't even at the Summerhouse reunion and I'm getting nervous. That made me with me, Everyone's like, was it accidentally me? So then it came out. Then Bravo released the same and saying we got them, we found the person.31:27Speaker 3 That person, yeah, that person. Bravo haven't said yet, who know, they haven't said who it is.31:31Speaker 1 They said it wasn't anyone from the car, so they put that information in the official statement. They said it was someone within the production, but they haven't said who it is who took an illegal recording and that they are being dealt with, and that I asked, has anyone's seen this person again they get disappeared by Bravo. I wouldn't put a pass, bro, I don't if there's anyone I'm not crossing, it's freaking Andy Cohen. No. That man is like a mastermind and he does not take. He the one thing he doesn't take is like any kind of slander or anyone messing with his shows. Yeah. Sa Michell Geller the other day just said like, oh I don't like this new season and whatever Housewives she was watching, and he went online.32:04Speaker 3 He's like, how dare she like? He doesn't suffer it? Yeah?32:08Speaker 1 So yeah, God God rest that poor soul, who I'm assuming could be.32:12Speaker 2 Someone from Sound Productions. To me, all of it sounded pretty level. I know, people were really like, oh, it's also different. I just thought it all sounded like Mike pickup, yeah, which would indicate someone from Sound Probably.32:23Speaker 1 Well again this person who I'm gonna go ahead and allegedly is no longer with us. This person, apparently Andy said on his podcast Just that was released today that they had a team of investigators on it who were like forensically breaking down the different sound, Like this is how serious it is because also there's money, there's legal things and everything.32:43Speaker 2 I mean, if anything, I think this is going to get people to watch it. Oh but people already gonna watch it.32:48Speaker 3 Yeah.32:48Speaker 1 So apparently Andy said they found the culprit via like forensic investigation of sound. But also this is the thing, this is how crazy Bravo fans are, and like full respect to them and never cross them. Is that he said that the Bravo fan pages and like accounts everything were on it in such an extreme way, and they were passing on information about who the league was, Like they were zoning in on this person from like across the world in their fan groups. They were hunting this person down. And Andy's saying that a fan came forward with the crucial information, like they cracked the code a fan.33:20Speaker 3 What did a fan have?33:21Speaker 1 Well, he said, well, knowing we'll know soon, but we don't know now. A fan figured it out and passing information onto Andy Cohen, which allowed this person, who I'm assuming is down de ceased. I'm just like, I'm assuming it's own deceased to be caught and dealt with by the proper authorities within Bravo, because Bravo's a self servicing world, whereas I feel like they don't. They have their own rules of how to.33:42Speaker 3 Deal with people.33:42Speaker 1 Do you think they're going to need like a reunion for the reunion because Andy's gonna have to give us like a four part series A they edit that freaking union down to two hours when they have ten hours of footage. God help me, Andy Cohen, I'll leak something myself.33:54Speaker 2 But you know, well you wouldn't know because you don't really want ch ows wives. But you know, like on Housewives, when there's like a throwback, it's like black and white and like the camera's always shaky. Yeah, and there's that really specific like Hou's Wives and music it's like d and then like I just am picturing that. But if someone listening to audio waves, they have to have filmed the investigation.34:13Speaker 3 Oh, I mean god, I hope. So yeah.34:15Speaker 1 Now the question just remains why did they do it? Because yes, the simplest and always I guess the main reason for everything is money. But also no one outlet leaked it as a e exclusive. It just was like disseminated to a bunch of outlets, so did all those outlets pay? But also that couldn't be tracked, so did this person not get any money? The theory is that they did it because they didn't want Amanda in West. This is getting in the weed because everyone's like those producers work with these people for years and they feel betrayed as well, and they didn't want Amanda and West to get a good edit, and they didn't want them to be protected the way they potentially could have been, because Amanda is in another rapin off show and potentially Wester is as well, and so they wanted people to see how they really were in the reunion.34:58Speaker 3 I don't know.34:58Speaker 2 That's a prodlicting story, yeah, because ones like Western Amanda wanted to get it out to show that good people, and the other is like, no, they're awful and we're going to prove it.35:05Speaker 3 Yeah, so we.35:07Speaker 1 Don't know yet, but like there's a lot of theories around. But anyway, that is a summer house leak.35:12Speaker 2 I didn't think it could get any worse last week, Like I thought we were at the peak.35:16Speaker 1 It's not airing the Ringion for a few more weeks. So more drama to calm but anyway that is true crime meets pop culture a beautiful place to be in.35:24Speaker 2 Thank you so much for listening to the Spill today. We love hearing from our spillers, so please send us a DM on Instagram or TikTok.35:31Speaker 3 We will be back in your feed.35:32Speaker 2 Tomorrow morning at seven am with morning.35:33Speaker 3 Tea hosted by Ash London.35:35Speaker 2 The Spill is produced by Manisha's Foreign with video production by Michael Keane.35:39Speaker 3 Bye Bye Lan Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Abram's journey in Genesis 12:1–9 marks a turning point in redemptive history. Called to leave everything behind, Abram steps out in faith toward an unknown future, trusting in God's promises.

This might not be word-for-word because I had to shorten it to meet the new character limit for this section. Some people like to read along while they listen, and I want to explain that it might not match up perfectly. He Is Series El Kanna — The Jealous God (God Who Pursues You) When You Feel Forgotten, God Is Still Pursuing You Exodus 34:14 “For you shall worship no other god, because the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.” Today, we are looking at the name El Kanna — The Jealous God. This might seem a bit harsh at first. We've all seen jealousy in people, and it usually isn't healthy. I was in a relationship with a very jealous person once, and it wasn't good. That's not the kind of jealousy we're talking about with God. We are imperfect, so when we feel jealous, it can come out as bitterness, control, or pettiness. But God's jealousy is different. God loves us so much that He cares when we turn away from Him. He cares when we stray from the path. Right before this verse, Exodus 34:12-13 warns not to make covenants with the people of the land because it will become a trap. God knew that following the ways of the world would pull them into things they didn't want to do. It's like when you make a new friend and they invite you to do something you don't really want to do, but you say yes anyway. I remember going to a horror movie with a new friend—I hate horror movies, but I went just to keep the peace. That's not a big deal, but what if it was something more serious? What if they invited you into something harmful, and little by little you got pulled in? We are called to live in the world, but not be of the world. We are meant to be examples of Christ. But sometimes we forget and begin to love the things of this world. We may think this doesn't apply to us because we don't have false gods like in the Old Testament. But today there are more idols than ever. We treat influencers, celebrities, athletes, and entertainment like they are everything. We give them our time, attention, and admiration. If we look at our lives honestly, we can begin to understand why God cares so deeply about where our attention and love go. If you look at your day, can you see why God might be jealous? If you look at who or what gets most of your time, can you understand it? God wants an intimate relationship with you. He sent His Son to die on the cross so He could be close to you. When you see it this way, His jealousy makes sense. But He is not jealous like we are. He is not controlling, petty, or trying to get even. He is not going to hurt us because we hurt Him. God is jealous because He loves us too much to lose us to sin. He is jealous because He wants more for us. I love the saying: God meets us where we are, but He loves us too much to leave us there. He knows how valuable you are. He believes you are worth fighting for. If God weren't jealous, that would be the real problem. That would mean He didn't care if we wandered away or headed toward destruction. We often want to believe we can do whatever we want and still end up in heaven because God loves us. But the Bible tells us clearly that we are called to love God with all our heart, mind, and soul. Are we doing that? Are we putting Him first? If not, it helps us understand why God calls us back. He is protective because He loves us. He doesn't ignore us while we go the wrong way. He doesn't just focus on those who are doing well. He wants all of His children with Him in heaven. Do you know what that means? It means God is actively pursuing you. He is chasing after you. He is fighting for you because you are worth fighting for—even if you don't believe that. God is not content to let you go down the wrong road. He is not content to watch you chase things that will only lead to emptiness. He is jealous in all the good ways—and we are so blessed that He is. Dear El Kanna, I ask that you bless each person listening. Thank you for loving us so deeply that you pursue us. Help us stay on the right path. Show us where we have gone astray and gently lead us back. We want to stay close to you. We love you, Lord, and ask this in Jesus's name, Amen. Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. If something in you has been stirred lately—like you want more of God—that's not random. That's an invitation. And if you're ready to respond, I would love to walk with you in the mentoring group. You can join through the link in the show notes or at walkboldlywithjesus.com. I look forward to meeting you here again tomorrow. Remember, Jesus loves you just as you are, and so do I! Have a blessed day! Today's Word from the Lord was received in October 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have questions, email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is:“Please freely call upon my name. I long to hear from you, and I will come running.”   www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

Godgod tirsdag! DAgens sending byr på en noe brå start grunnet tekniske problemer! Kaisa, Maria og Bertine gleder seg til folkefesten på BCM på lørdag. Bertine skal til Oslo og kjenner på FOMO. Ellers går sendingen i en hylles til LIS på NRK, finværet, quiz og en datingoppfordring til alle norske gutter. Jentene skal på konsert med Trand fødsel i dag og promoterer en øl på rævdilter først. Ses der!

Feeling prompted to reconnect with an old friend but held back by fear or awkwardness? 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us that God gives us power, love, and self-discipline—not fear—especially when it comes to relationships He may be stirring in our hearts. When someone from your past keeps coming to mind, it might not be random—it could be God gently nudging you toward restoration, encouragement, or even closure. Reaching out doesn’t require a perfect plan or flawless words. God simply asks for your willingness to take the first step. Whether the outcome is a renewed friendship or just a moment of peace, God is present in the process. As you trust Him with both the courage to act and the results that follow, you’ll find freedom from fear and confidence in knowing He’s working through every connection in your life. Highlights God prompts connection—people coming to mind may not be случайно Fear often holds us back, but it doesn’t come from God God equips you with power, love, and self-discipline to take action You don’t need the perfect words—just a simple, honest reach-out Reconnection may bring healing, restoration, or closure You’re responsible for obedience, not the outcome God works through relationships in meaningful ways Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: God Will Help You Reconnect with an Old FriendBy: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” – 2 Timothy 1:7, NIV It had been years since I’d seen my friend Pam when I started to think of her again. She kept coming to mind, but I kept hesitating to reach out to her, because I thought it might be awkward to try to catch up after all the time that had passed since I got married, she stayed single, and we drifted apart. One day, I prayed about it, and the Holy Spirit seemed to be encouraging me to contact her. I called the number I had for Pam, only to find that it was no longer valid. But that Sunday when I went up to the altar for Communion at church, there in the Communion line with me was Pam! She had recently moved back to my area and joined my church, without even knowing that was where I currently worshipped. But God’s Spirit had made a way for us to meet and reconnect! Have you ever had an old friend suddenly come to mind? You might not know why that person you’ve lost touch with has popped into your thoughts, but the memory lingers. You may have mixed feelings about it – excitement to try to reconnect, but fear that too much time has gone by to really be friends again. Fear can take over and stop you from reaching out to your old friend. You may have a whole bunch of fear-based excuses for not trying to reconnect, like it’s been too long, or it’ll be too awkward, or that your former friend probably doesn’t want to hear from you. But 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds you that God didn’t give you a spirit of fear. So, the hesitation you feel doesn’t come from God. According to 2 Timothy 1:7, God gives you power, love, and self-discipline. When fear tells you to stay silent, God offers you courage to move forward despite feeling afraid. If you’re thinking a lot about an old friend, it may not be random. Sometimes the Holy Spirit gently but persistently encourages you to reconnect. Relationships are important to God. He often works through connections between people. Reaching out might be an important part of God’s work in both of your lives! You’ll still likely feel afraid because of the uncertainty of what will happen when you do reach out. But God will give you the courage you need to act even when you feel unsure. You don’t have to plan the perfect message or know how the conversation will go. You don’t have to fix the past or explain everything that went wrong. You can start by just sending a simple text or email that says something like: “Hi, you’ve been on my mind lately. I hope you’re doing well.” That’s it. God can work with that. You may be worried about rejection or silence. That’s understandable. But remember, God never asks you to control how someone responds. He only invites you to trust him with the process. When you step out in faith, you’re placing the results in God’s hands. No matter how your old friend responds, God is still at work in both of your lives. Reconnecting with an old friend can also stir up past pain. You may remember misunderstandings or conflicts that caused the friendship to end. If that’s the case, ask God to guide you before you reach out. God can help you approach the situation with honesty and humility, and God can also help you forgive and ask for forgiveness. Just like God gives you grace and mercy, you can give your old friend grace and mercy so you both can move forward well. It’s also possible that reconnecting won’t lead to a restored friendship, and that’s okay. Sometimes the purpose is just peace and closure for both of you. Trust that God knows what this connection is meant to be, and just follow where God leads you. As you think about reaching out, pray and ask God to fight anxiety for you. Ask God’s Spirit to prepare both you and your old friend, and to give you the right words to reach out. Then contact your old friend, and rely on the courage God will give you. God will handle all the rest. Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider why it’s important to ask God for help, like courage to reconnect with old friends, reflect on these questions: Who is an old friend who has been on your mind lately? What’s currently keeping you from reaching out to him or her? Which gift from God – power, love, or self-discipline – do you need the most to reach out to your old friend? Are you willing to leave the results of reconnecting in God’s hands? Further Reading:1 John 4:18Hebrews 10:24Romans 12:18Philippians 4:6-7Proverbs 3:5-6 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Psalm 139: Known Fully, Never Alone Show: Walking Through the Psalms Host: Dave Jenkins Show Summary In this episode of Walking Through the Psalms, Dave Jenkins walks through Psalm 139:1–12 and explains how this passage reveals the depth of God's knowledge and presence. Psalm 139 reminds us that God knows us completely, is with us constantly, and sees even what we cannot. This truth brings comfort, confidence, and clarity to the Christian life. Because of Christ: You are fully known You are never alone You are held by a faithful God Audio Video Key Scriptures Psalm 139:1–12 John 2:24–25 Matthew 28:20 2 Corinthians 5:20 Romans 5 Episode Highlights God's complete and personal knowledge of His people The inescapable presence of God God's presence even in darkness and suffering The connection between Psalm 139 and Jesus Christ Comfort for believers and warning for unbelievers Big Idea God's perfect knowledge and constant presence gives us unshakable confidence to trust Him in every circumstance of life. Call to Action If you were encouraged by this episode, share it with others and help spread biblical truth. For more from our Psalms series, visit the Psalms archive or subscribe on YouTube.

Doctrine matters because… We love God. Belief shapes behavior. It informs our worldview. We need to be equipped to explain what we believe and why we believe it. God has revealed Himself to us… Through His Creation Through His Son Through His Word God's word is to your soul what food is to your stomach.   We consume, trust, and obey God's Word… 1. Because it is Inspired  2. Because it is Inerrant  3. Because it is Instructive  If God's Word is inspired, inerrant, and instructive, why wouldn't we be in it every day?

The Goodness and the Holiness of GodGod's Blueprint for a Healthy Church1 Timothy 4:1-5Dr. Ken MitchellWestside Chapel | April 12, 2026

*Listen to the Show notes and podcast transcript with this multi-language player. Summary This conversation centers on breaking spiritual bonds—especially preconceived ideas, doctrines, and attachments—to truly know God. The speakers emphasize that bonds, even those formed around God Himself, can become limitations or idols. Through testing, repentance, and even devastation, believers are refined into a deeper, more authentic relationship with God. True knowing of God comes not through comfort or fixed beliefs, but through surrender, transformation, and continual turning toward Him. Show Notes 1. The Nature of Bonds Human nature seeks attachment—to people, doctrines, and systemsThese bonds can become spiritual limitationsEven religious structures (denominations, worship styles) can restrict knowing God 2. Bonds Can Become Idols Anything we cling to for identity or security can replace GodA fixed concept of God can actually block deeper revelationTrue relationship requires freedom from these attachments 3. Breaking Bonds to Find God We must let go of ourideaof God to truly know HimQuestioning our foundation is necessary—not rejecting God, but refining understandingFear of losing what we “know” about God reveals hidden bondage 4. Testing Our Relationship with God Are we willing to have our beliefs shaken?Resistance to change or correction reveals spiritual bondageA real relationship with God can withstand testing 5. Devastation as a Path to Revelation God often uses hardship more than blessing to reveal HimselfDevastation strips away false foundationsThrough this process, we see God's love more clearly 6. Repentance and Turning to God Repentance is not just sorrow—it's turning fully to GodGod becomes the answer—not circumstances or emotionsHis reassurance builds trust: “I'm still here” 7. Becoming God's Workmanship God forms His nature within us through repeated dealingsHis love and heart are woven into us over timeThis process creates a deep determination to walk with Him 8. Walking Through Failure and Restoration Failure is part of the journeyGod remains present through mistakes and confusionLike Peter, restoration comes through love and renewed calling Key Quotes “Bonds are death… you don't bond—you become alive in Him.”“The problem with bonds is that they become an idol.”“You have to break bonds with God in order to find God.”“Are you afraid of losing your security… can you let the Lord shake it?”“Through devastation, we come to know God in a greater way.”“Let God be your answer—not circumstances.”“I'm still here… you're just not where you should be.”“Out of devastation, we'll find God.”“Are you going to make mistakes? Absolutely… but God's with you through it.” Scriptural References Exodus 20 (3–5)Idolatry and placing anything before GodIsaiah 55 (8–9)God's ways higher than our understandingHebrews 12 (6–11)God disciplines those He lovesJames 1 (2–4)Trials produce maturityRomans 12 (2)Transformation through renewed thinkingJohn 21 (15–17)Jesus restoring Peter (“Do you love Me?”)Proverbs 3 (11–12)The Lord corrects those He lovesPhilippians 3 (8–10)Letting go of all to know Christ Takeaway To truly know God, you must be willing to let go of everything you think you know about Him. Bonds—whether to doctrine, experience, or identity—can quietly replace relationship. God uses testing, shaking, and even devastation to strip away what is false so that what is real can emerge. In that process, you discover that He has never left—and that kwnoing Him is a continual, living journey, not a fixed conclusion.

Struggling with shame, sin, or fear of rejection? 1 John 1:9 reminds us that confession leads to forgiveness, healing, and freedom—inviting every believer to step out of hiding and back into God’s grace. Hiding often feels safer than being fully known—but spiritually, it keeps us stuck. Whether it’s shame from past wounds, fear of rejection, or ongoing struggles with sin, choosing silence and secrecy can quietly distance us from God and others. Yet Scripture offers a better way: honest confession that leads to restoration. God doesn’t call us to hide—He calls us to healing. Highlights Hiding sin often stems from fear of rejection or shame Confession restores intimacy and fellowship with God God’s love does not change, even when we fall short Isolation is a tool the enemy uses to keep us stuck True healing begins with honesty and surrender Sanctification is a process, not a one-time moment Jesus remains our righteousness, even in our struggle Do you want to listen ad-free? When you join Crosswalk Plus, you gain access to exclusive, in-depth Bible study guides, devotionals, sound biblical advice, and daily encouragement from trusted pastors and authors—resources designed to strengthen your faith and equip you to live it out boldly. PLUS ad free podcasts! Sign Up Today! Full Transcript Below: Dear Child of God, Come Out of Hiding By: Emily Rose Massey Bible Reading:“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, NKJV) A few months ago, my eyes were opened to the stark reality that I was struggling with an area of my past… …the pain of rejection. This continues to be a battle for me, yet I realize that healing from the pain of rejection is a partnership with the Lord and, most definitely, a process as we learn to surrender to God. Thankfully, I am not alone in this fight in healing from my past and old ways of thinking. One thing is for sure: the Lord fights for me, and the Holy Spirit guides me into all truth, illuminating and exposing the lies I was believing that are rooted in rejection. Rejection had overwhelmed so much of my life that I wasn’t being fully honest with people in my life. The lie I believed was that I would be rejected if my sin or wrongdoing was discovered. Therefore, I chose to either keep silent or tell a lie to keep my secret hidden so that I wouldn’t be a disappointment. That lifestyle was keeping me from being fully transparent and honest with my husband and, most importantly, with God. I believe this is why 1 John 1 reminds us of the importance of confessing our sin: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, NKJV). Intersecting Faith & Life: Hiding our sin causes us to hide from God, very similarly to Adam and Eve when the first sin entered the world- they felt ashamed, and shame made them feel rejected. Because of Jesus and the finished work of the cross, we are forever made righteous in our position as we stand before the Father and are forever forgiven, yet when we sin, it causes our fellowship with God to be hindered, and then we can very easily distance ourselves from Him and stray from His ways. God’s love toward me never changes when I sin, yet I may still experience consequences and correction for my disobedience. Repentance, as a believer, is for our benefit to keep fellowship with our Heavenly Father open and unhindered. Sin can often make our hearts grow callous, and we may become less sensitive to the conviction of the Holy Spirit. The enemy wants you either in pride, thinking you are better off doing life your own way, or in isolation, bound in a pit of depression, unable to receive love or give out love, feeling like no one loves you or cares about you, especially God. But God’s love is unconditional and perfect, and nothing can stop His pursuit of you. He wants us to be honest with Him so that we can see real transformation happen in our lives, as He conforms us into the image of His Son. Like I said above, positionally, in Christ, you stand before God forgiven and righteous, but experientially, sanctification is a process because our flesh is weak. Although as born-again believers, we continue to sin against God because we are constantly at war with our flesh in this life, the good news is that we have a great advocate, Jesus Christ, who is forever our righteousness. To be sure, our position in Him as declared righteous before God will never change, yet we are still called to confess our sin, which purifies our conscience before the Lord. Is there a particular sin that you have been struggling with? Pause and take some time to write it/them down and repent before the Lord, laying it all down at His feet. 1 John 1:9 says Jesus is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us of all unrighteousness. Dear child of God, let us remember to come out of hiding and rejoice in the truth that Jesus is forever our righteousness despite our shortcomings! Further Reading: Romans 8:31-39 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Easter isn't just something to celebrate—it's something that confronts you. The resurrection of Jesus isn't meant to be observed and ignored. It demands a response. In this message, we walk through the first Easter morning and discover what it reveals about God and what it requires from us. From the power of the empty tomb to the invitation of new life, this is more than a moment in history—it's a decision point for your life today.- The resurrection confronts us with the reality of an active, powerful God- God doesn't just reveal Himself—He invites you into a relationship with Him- You can't stay neutral with Easter—every person must respond in faith or walk awayKey Scriptures:Matthew 28:1–10Exodus 20Job 38–42Revelation 21:1–5Matthew 11:28–30Easter calls for more than belief—it calls for surrender. Take a step today: trust Jesus, turn from what can't satisfy, and follow Him fully. If this message spoke to you, share it with someone who needs to hear it.Bayou City Fellowship Cypress Campus | Nick Maricle | April 5, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

Waiting on God, trusting His timing, and holding onto hope in suffering are at the heart of When the Miracle Hasn’t Come Yet. Rooted in Romans 8:24–25 and the story of Lazarus in John 11, this devotional explores how God’s love remains constant—even when answers feel delayed. In seasons of pain, silence, or unanswered prayers, it’s easy to question where God is. Yet Scripture shows us that delay is not the absence of love. Jesus loved Mary, Martha, and Lazarus deeply—and still waited. That tension is where faith grows. Biblical hope isn’t pretending everything is fine; it’s trusting that God is still working when we can’t yet see the outcome. Even in the waiting, Jesus is still our resurrection and our life. The miracle may not have come yet—but His presence is already with us. Highlights God’s delay does not mean He is distant or uncaring Faith allows room for both belief and honest grief Biblical hope is anchored in what we cannot yet see Jesus is our hope now—not just when the miracle comes Waiting seasons are not wasted; they deepen our dependence on God God’s love and our suffering can coexist without contradiction You are not alone—God is present even in the silence Full Transcript Below: When the Miracle Hasn’t Come YetBy: Sarah Frazer Bible Reading:“For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” - Romans 8:24-25 If God loves me why am I suffering? I asked this question many years ago while sitting awake in bed at 2 AM. I was battling an intense time of depression and anxiety. Sleep would not come, even after begging God for relief. I had gotten so tired that I couldn’t rest. Tears rolled down my cheek. As I walked through the valley of depression, I began to search out why God would delay my healing. I wrestled with the question of how God could be loving but also allow suffering as well. Our passage for today speaks into this tension. “Now a man named Lazarus was sick… Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So… he stayed where he was two more days.” - John 11:5-6 Notice that it says Jesus loved them! It is evident in other scriptures that Jesus had a close relationship with all three siblings. Yet, when they needed him the most, Jesus delayed. If He loved them, why didn’t He hurry to heal Lazarus? For two days, Jesus didn’t move. So many of us feel like we are living in that “two-day delay.” We are loved, but we are still waiting. One night, while sitting in my bed, unable to fall asleep, I remember finally being honest with God. I told him that I was so depressed and asked Him why He didn’t take this pain away. Mary and Martha, in John 11, were also honest with Jesus. “‘Lord,’ Martha said to Jesus, ‘if you had been here, my brother would not have died.’” - John 11:21 There is belief here. She believed Jesus could have helped, but she also expressed her grief. How many of us shy away from both things when we are waiting for relief from our own suffering? Faith in God does not mean we can’t be disappointed. Jesus did not chide her for her honesty. Believing God’s promises and His power does not silence our sorrow. Although Jesus does resurrect Lazarus, Martha didn’t know this. You and I know that one day our new bodies will not suffer, and all tears will be wiped away. But that doesn’t mean we don’t live in unresolved circumstances now. “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” - Romans 8:24-25 Biblical hope is not wishful thinking or denial. Mary and Martha did not deny the pain, nor did they have a vague belief in Jesus. Martha stood in her grief before she saw glory. Many of us do that too. Paul, in the book of Romans, encourages us to wait for what we cannot see and hope will come. Resurrection means that death does not win. Delay does not cancel love, and the grave does not get the final word. Often, we believe that God’s love means we will have immediate answers or instant healing. Instead, we find that God’s timeline and ours don’t always match. Jesus was the resurrection and the life before Lazarus walked out of the tomb. He is the resurrection for us, even if tears fall. “I am the resurrection and the life.” John 11:25 Notice what Jesus did not say: “I will perform a resurrection.” He said, “I am.” This is one of the many “I AM” statements found throughout the Gospel of John. In this moment, Jesus is declaring Himself God. Very soon after this moment, Jesus would face His own death, and then God would resurrect Jesus as well. Notice that the miracle came later. Jesus is still our hope, our savior, and our king, even if we find ourselves still inside the tomb. Depression is like a tomb for me. So many times I’ve suffered through seasons of extreme sorrow, feeling like I was dying. In those moments, I began to cling to Jesus. Nothing around me felt any different, but as I read scripture, especially this passage, I realize that Jesus sees my sorrow, loves me deeply, and was willing to die Himself so I could one day be free from pain and sorrow. The same Savior who sometimes allows suffering is the One who ultimately conquered it on the cross. So if you find yourself praying at 2 a.m., longing for relief, just remember that you are not forgotten. You may not see the miracle yet. But you are not waiting alone. Intersecting Faith & Life: Where does it feel like God is late in showing up for you? What prayer feels unanswered? What miracle are you waiting and hoping for? You are not abandoned in the delay. Love can coexist with waiting. Resurrection hope sustains sometimes before it resolves. Further Reading:Isaiah 30:18Lamentations 3:25-262 Corinthians 4:16-18Hebrews 11:13Revelation 21:4-5 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Several books on my bookshelves wrestle with the idea of “a hidden God.” My Amazon wish list contains a few as well. So here we will put the big question earlier than normal: Question How can we understand the character of God, who is both the single most important character in the Hebrew Bible and yet absent from the majority of it? As we read Scripture, we note that God often uses stand-ins for Himself. Why? Stand-Ins for God: Angels Humans Judges Kings Prophets Humans speak about God: God's friends God's foes Narrator Nature Animate Inanimate Absence Additional Questions How many of these stand-ins are created, sin-damaged, or sin-traumatized? The reliability of their witness for/about God is what ...

Manasseh has a rough go at things after his insane idolatry: Manasseh is carried away to Babylon in chains Manasseh does a 180 and decides to worship only God God protects Manasseh and brings him home The king dies and Amon takes the throne, and more idolatry ensues Be sure to click every link for the full P40 experience: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-6493869 Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle Check out LifeAudio for other faith-based podcasts on parenting, studying Scripture, and more: www.lifeaudio.com Become a member to gain access to The Bible Explained on Fridays: https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sermon Summary: Love Descends (Isaiah 56:1–8) In this powerful message, Michael DeSelm shares his personal journey through suffering, healing, and grace, culminating in the life-changing declaration that he is cancer-free. Anchored in Isaiah 56, the sermon reveals a core truth of the gospel: we don't climb our way to God—God comes down to us. Through the stories of the foreigner and the eunuch, we see that God meets both our fear of exclusion and our sense of shame with radical belonging and purpose. The kingdom of God is not built on performance, rank, or earning approval—it runs on grace. Belonging comes before behavior. Welcome comes before transformation. Ultimately, this message points to Jesus, who embodies this descending love—crossing boundaries, embracing the outsider, and giving His life while we were still sinners. Because love descends, there is room for everyone in God's family.

This sermon explores Moses' return to Mount Sinai in Exodus 19, a profound "full circle moment." A year after the burning bush, Moses returns leading a freed nation. The biblical narrative slows down, dedicating 57 chapters to this encampment. Through Moses' trips up the mountain, we see God's invitation to covenant, His demand for holiness, and a stark warning against treating His presence casually.Scripture ReferencesExodus 19:1-8: God calls Israel His "treasured possession" and a "kingdom of priests."Exodus 19:9-19: God commands the people to consecrate themselves before descending in fire and thunder.Exodus 19:20-25: God warns the people not to force their way up the mountain.Exodus 20:18-21: Moses explains that the fear of God keeps them from sinning.Key PointsThe Order of the Covenant God initiates the relationship before giving rules. He reminds Israel He carried them out of Egypt on eagles' wings. Grace precedes obedience. We obey because we have been rescued, not to earn rescue.A Kingdom of Priests God calls Israel His singular "treasured possession." Their purpose is to be a "kingdom of priests." A priest brings God to the people and the people to God. God wants an entire nation to represent Him to the world.The Demand for Holiness Because we represent a holy God, we must be holy. Commands to consecrate themselves were tangible ways to separate from pagan nations. God's demands for holiness make sense when we understand our calling to represent Him accurately.Do Not Be Casual with God God repeatedly warns the people not to cross the mountain's boundary. He warns against a flippant approach to His presence. We run a great risk when we treat God's holiness and our sin lightly.The Fear of the Lord When God descends in fire, the people are terrified. Moses says, "Do not be afraid... so that the fear of God will be with you." The fear of the Lord is a deep reverence that produces obedience, drives out worldly fears, and draws us toward God.ConclusionWe are called to be a holy nation and a kingdom of priests. We cannot fulfill this if we approach God casually or harbor unrepentant sin. The fire of God's presence is mesmerizing and dangerous. May we cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord that draws us closer to Him.Calls to ActionCheck the Order: Obey out of gratitude for God's rescue, not to earn His love.Embrace Your Priestly Role: Represent God's ways in your workplace, school, or family.Cultivate Reverence: Identify areas where you have become casual about sin and ask the Holy Spirit to renew your reverence. Support the show*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.

Introduction: Hebrews 1:1-3 - Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high... The Prophet (Deuteronomy 18:14-22): Will Speak God's Words – But they did not all listen See: John 12:49-50 and John 14:10, 24 Will be Like Moses – But they did not all believe See: John 6:32-35 and John 6:51, 57b-58 Will Die if He Lies – But they killed Jesus for telling the truth See: John 8:26b-28 | Psalm 22:7-8, 16-18 | Psalm 22:22-25 Jesus is the Prophet – Will You: Listen to Him? Believe Him? Speak His words? Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Audio Transcript 00:00-00:01Good morning, Harvest.00:03-00:05It's a joy to be with you this morning.00:06-00:11Open your Bibles, please, if you haven't already, to Deuteronomy chapter 18.00:12-00:16It's where we will be studying God's Word this morning.00:18-00:37And as is our usual, sometimes usual custom, I would ask, please, that you pray for me, that I would clearly, accurately preach God's Word, and I will pray for you that your hearts will be open to receive it.00:37-00:37Let's pray.00:43-01:18Gracious and holy Father, I pray, Father, you would open our hearts and minds to receive your word, that we would be absolutely convinced beyond all doubt that your word is true and that Jesus is your prophet who speaks your truth to us through your word, through your spirit at all times.01:19-01:30And I pray as we believe and trust in Him, you would transform our lives and make us more like Him every day.01:30-01:33We pray in Jesus' great name, Amen.01:35-01:44So in preparation for Resurrection Sunday, we are beginning a three-part series examining the three offices of Christ.01:45-01:47the office of prophet, priest, and king.01:49-01:53And we begin this morning with the first of these, which is prophet.01:55-01:59Now, we may listen to a lot of modern day prophets for advice on how to live.02:00-02:12The experts, the doctors, the internet influencers, the media talking heads, podcasters, entertainment celebrities, even astrologists and politicians.02:14-02:16The sources of information are endless.02:17-02:24And now we have AI at our fingertips to synthesize and summarize the sum and substance of human experience.02:27-02:40Now to be clear, I'm not talking about doctors who say eating this one food three times a day cures sleep apnea or the weird trick that cures tinnitus caused by eating this one food three times a day.02:40-02:47Now I'm talking about the major life information, answers to questions like, "Who am I?02:48-02:49What's my purpose?02:50-03:03What's the best way to live?" And when it comes to that kind of information, few to none of the infotainment talking heads can really help us, because they can only tell us what they know.03:04-03:11I'm not suggesting they aren't intelligent, but what they say may or may not be true.03:12-03:15But you say like, well, no, hold on, hold on Sprung.03:15-03:20I've heard it said that all truth is God's truth, wherever it's found.03:22-03:24Well, let's think about that for a minute.03:25-03:29God's word is perfect, pure and true according to Psalm 19.03:30-03:44So I have a metaphor this morning for us, For God's word, I think that everyone can relate to the delight over opening a brand new container of Play-Doh.03:45-03:46It's all one color.03:47-03:49Nobody's played with it yet.03:49-03:51It's not mixed up with other colors.03:52-03:57It's just fresh and clean, and it's ready for my artistic expression.04:00-04:04But you know, the inevitable happens, doesn't it?04:04-04:19Soon, what was once pure and clean, it's all mashed together with a lot of other colors and that original color becomes unidentifiable.04:22-04:23I think you get the point.04:25-04:29How do you discern God's truth in a mishmash of worldly ideas?04:30-04:37How do you extract the truth once it's all blended into futile human thoughts?04:40-04:45Well, this is the problem with the infotainment experts.04:46-04:53Their learning and experience and perspective is just a conglomeration of worldly thinking.04:54-05:09They can make educated guesses as to how to live and what's going to happen, but ultimately every single one of them is going to reach a point where they have to say, "I don't know." And some of them are speaking directly out of the pit of hell.05:10-05:13And those folks will drag you down to hell with them.05:14-05:20So you see, that's why when it comes to the astrologists and the mediums and perhaps the to celebrities and influencers.05:22-05:33Verse 14 of this morning's passage says that, "As for you, the Lord, your God, has not allowed you to do this." So to whom or what can we turn?05:33-05:37Where can we get truth for an accurate world view?05:38-05:41Because we need a perspective that is outside of ourselves.05:42-05:46Outside of this world, really, and that's what God's Word is.05:47-05:53It is the specific and special revelation of God about himself.05:58-06:01It comes from the throne of God.06:02-06:18The problem with the world is, people in the world, they look at the Bible and like, "Well, yeah, that's just one more system of thought like any other." In fact, it's probably even not as good as what AI can tell us now.06:19-06:21They have a low view of scripture.06:22-06:24We need to have a high view of scripture.06:26-06:33And as we learn from the word that was just read, we can get the truth from the prophet.06:34-06:36It is to him we must listen.06:38-06:40But what is a prophet anyway?06:41-06:42What does a prophet do?06:42-06:52We typically think of prophets as forecasting future events, often in a cryptic or mystical way, like that Nostradamus guy.06:52-06:58But biblically, that is only a partial description of what a prophet does.06:59-07:03Basically a biblical prophet speaks God's words to people.07:05-07:09The Old Testament prophets revealed three basic messages.07:11-07:18The first was that God sent many prophets to his people to rebuke them for breaking the covenant and worshiping idols.07:19-07:31This was perhaps the prophet's most important function, to remind the people of Israel that they, and only they, were in a covenantal relationship with the Lord God Most High.07:33-07:36and they were violating His covenant in a high-handed way.07:37-07:47Time and again He warned them to return to Him, or they would face the ultimate covenant punishment of being expelled from the Promised Land.07:48-08:03Not only did the prophets warn Israel and Judah that they would be punished by pagan nations for their idolatry, God also spoke to them about a future restoration, both near and at the end of the age.08:05-08:09And indeed, after the exile, they would return to the promised land.08:10-08:18And the nations that assaulted and tormented Israel in their exile, they would in turn be punished and overthrown by God.08:19-08:29And then finally, the Old Testament prophets spoke of the coming Messiah, a sometimes suffering, but ultimately victorious anointed servant.08:30-08:33The anointed one would bring salvation to his people.08:33-08:37He would inaugurate a new covenant between God and his people.08:38-08:45And the prophets gave many clues that would help the people identify the anointed one when he arrived.08:46-08:51Now, what did God expect his people to do in response to the prophets' messages?08:52-09:29expected, well no, he commanded them to repent and believe the messages to return to him and live in accordance with the covenant he made with them at Mount Sinai. And yet the Old Testament records a nearly continuous account of Israel's idolatry. They worship the idols of the nations around them. They And they sought out and listened to the words of false prophets, mediums, fortune tellers, and diviners.09:30-09:31They did not listen.09:32-09:34They did not believe.09:34-09:37They became futile in their thinking and their worship.09:37-09:47They mixed God's truth with the religions and lifestyles of the surrounding nations, and they ended up with the equivalent of this, gudo.09:49-09:52It's just a mash, a mishmash of ideas.09:53-10:02And when the prophets exposed their sin and their hypocrisy, they took offense and they put them to death.10:04-10:13So God, after bearing with his people for hundreds of years, he brought the covenantal curses down upon their heads and inflicted the ultimate punishment.10:14-10:16He exiled them from the promised land.10:18-10:22Now God of course kept his promises and he returned them to the land.10:23-10:37And roughly 400 years after that, the anointed one who was known before the foundation of the world, he was made manifest in the last times for the sake of all who would believe in and through him.10:39-10:45We of course know from the New Testament that Jesus is the promised Messiah.10:46-10:52He's the Son of God who fulfilled all that was spoken of Him by the Old Testament prophets.10:55-11:03As the writer of Hebrews says, "Long ago and at many times and in many ways, "God spoke to our fathers by the prophets.11:04-11:12"But in these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son, "whom He appointed the heir of all things, "through whom also He created the world.11:13-11:21"He's the radiance of the glory of God God in the exact imprint of His nature, and He upholds the universe by the word of His power.11:21-11:36After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high." And this verse summarizes the three offices of Christ that we're going to be studying this week.11:36-11:37First is prophet.11:38-11:48"In these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son." And then priest, he has made purification for sins.11:48-11:53And then finally king, he sat down at the right hand of the majesty on high.11:56-12:01So how do we know Jesus is the prophet foretold by Moses?12:02-12:08What evidence is there to conclusively connect Jesus to the promise of a prophet just like Moses?12:11-12:15Well, first the prophet will speak God's words.12:16-12:19Look at verse 15 of chapter 18 in Deuteronomy.12:21-12:27Verse 15 says, "The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your brothers.12:28-12:35It is to him you shall listen." Thus the prophet would be raised up by God from among the Israelites.12:36-12:46And the gospels of Matthew and Luke establish that Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit in the Virgin Mary, and he was adopted by Joseph.12:47-12:50And both Mary and Joseph were descendants of David.12:51-12:53Jesus was born in Bethlehem.12:54-12:57His birth was attended by an angelic announcement.12:59-13:08And then when John baptized Jesus, God the Father announced that Jesus was his beloved son with whom he was well-pleased.13:09-13:17All of these events attest that Jesus was indeed raised up by God the Father from among the Israelites.13:18-13:29And these events disprove the idea that Jesus was merely a self-appointed and possibly deluded religious figure, as some people think he was.13:31-13:35And then verse 18 tells us that God's words would be in his mouth.13:36-13:47"I will put my words in his mouth and He shall speak to them all that I command Him." Now, we've already established that the prophets spoke God's words to the people.13:48-13:59But whereas they prefaced their statements with, "Thus saith the Lord," Jesus spoke as the Lord, out of the oneness that existed between Him and the Father.14:00-14:17For example, in John 12, verses 49 and 50, Jesus said, "For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment, what to say and what to speak.14:17-14:20And I know that his commandment is eternal life.14:21-14:38What I say therefore, I say as the Father has told me." And then in John 14, verses 10 and 24, he said, "The words that I say to you, I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works.14:38-14:59And the word that you hear is not mine, but the Father's who sent me." As further proof of his prophetic office, Jesus spoke God's words in the way that the Israelites requested.15:00-15:13What I mean is this, In Exodus chapters 19 and 20, God descended in a dark cloud on Mount Sinai with thunders and lightnings and the mountains shook.15:14-15:18And out of that cloud, God spoke the 10 commandments to the people.15:19-15:54And when all the people saw the thunder and the lightning and the sound of the trumpet that they heard and they were seeing the mountain shake and the ground shaking beneath their feet, They were terrified and they stood far off and they told Moses, they said, "You speak to us and we will listen, "but do not let God speak to us lest we die." Certainly Moses continued to speak to the people and gave them God's commands during their journey to the promised land and during their wandering for 40 years in the desert.15:55-15:57And then in his final address to them in the book of Deuteronomy.16:00-16:21But in chapter 18, verses 16 and 17, Moses told the people that God would send a prophet in direct response to their request at Mount Sinai, to let me not hear again the voice of the Lord my God, or see this great fire anymore, lest I die.16:24-16:31So how did Jesus, in his speaking, demonstrate that he was the prophet sent by the Lord?16:32-16:37Well, there's three events that directly identify Jesus as the prophet.16:38-16:42And all of them occurred, not coincidentally, on a mountainside.16:44-16:48First, he was on the mountain when he was transfigured before Peter, James, and John.16:48-16:59and while talking with Moses and Elijah, and a bright cloud appeared and God said, "This is my beloved son with whom I am well pleased.17:00-17:08Listen to him." And the three disciples were like the Israelites of old, terrified by the voice of God.17:09-17:11But when they looked up, they saw only Jesus.17:14-17:26Second, the most direct connection A connection between the prophet and God speaking in the 10 commandments out of a stormy cloud is found in Matthew 5-7, the Sermon on the Mount.17:29-17:33Jesus, seeing the crowds, went up on the mountain.17:34-17:36And when he sat down, his disciples came to him.17:37-17:39And he opened his mouth and taught them.17:41-17:42And what did he teach them?17:44-17:50Well, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus exegeted the law, including most of the 10 commandments.17:51-17:59The greatest commandment, to love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, and then to love your neighbor as yourself.18:01-18:12In that sermon, he showed the people that righteousness was not about outwardly keeping rules, but inward devotion to God that flowed from a broken and contrite heart.18:14-18:18a heart that revealed itself in confident dependence on God.18:20-18:31Instead of fire and terror, Jesus spoke to the people face to face on the mountain, just as they requested of Moses so long ago.18:32-18:41He revealed God to be merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.18:42-18:50And when Jesus finished, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he was teaching them as one who had authority.18:52-18:57And yet, as so often happened in Israel's history, they did not all listen.18:59-19:06Yeah, there were those who did, but it seems for the most part, people were going out to Jesus for signs and wonders.19:07-19:08The crowds were fickle.19:08-19:10They were ambivalent about him.19:11-19:15and the religious leaders were so hostile, they wanted to kill him.19:18-19:26In Jesus, Israel got what she asked for hundreds of years earlier, a prophet speaking God's words to them face to face.19:27-19:35And even though his teaching astonished them, they eventually decided that Jesus really wasn't the prophet or Messiah they wanted after all.19:36-19:38They wanted a vending machine God.19:38-19:42They wanted a Messiah-o-matic and give them what they wanted.19:46-19:57You see, the divide between what the people craved and who Jesus is, is revealed in a third event that demonstrated the prophet would be like Moses.20:00-20:06The third thing Jesus did on a mountainside that proved He was the prophet like Moses is this.20:07-20:12He fed well over 5,000 people with bread and fish.20:14-20:36According to John 6, after everyone had eaten their fill and 12 baskets of leftovers were collected, the people said, "This is indeed the prophet who is to come into the world." And a day or two later, the people went looking for Jesus in Capernaum because they wanted more bread to eat.20:37-20:49Jesus knew what they wanted and he told them, "Do not work for the food that perishes, "but for the food that endures to eternal life, "which the Son of Man will give you.20:52-21:16"For on Him, God the Father has set His seal." And then the people said to him, "What must we do to be doing the works of God?" And Jesus answered them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent." So the people said, "Jesus, what sign do you do that we might believe you?21:18-21:26What are you going to do for us, Jesus, that will persuade us to believe in you?" And then they said, "Our fathers ate manna in the wilderness.21:27-21:40Have you got more bread?" Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly I say to you, "it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, "but my Father gives you the true bread from heaven.21:41-22:02"For the bread of God is he who comes down "from heaven and gives life to the world." They said to him, "Sir, give us this bread always." Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life." The people responded to Jesus' assertion with grumbling.22:03-22:11First, because he said, "He's the bread that comes down from heaven." They're like, "We want food.22:11-22:12We want bread.22:12-22:21We don't want you." But their grumbling increased because of Jesus' next extraordinary statement.22:24-22:28He said, "I am the living bread that came down from heaven.22:28-22:31"If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever.22:32-22:36"And the bread that I will give "for the life of the world is my flesh.22:36-22:41"Whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me.22:42-22:47"This is the bread that came down from heaven, "not like the bread the fathers ate and died.22:48-22:57"Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever." Well, this was just all too much for the Jews.22:57-22:59This was just too bizarre.23:01-23:09Jesus was speaking of himself as eternal nourishment, and all they could think about was their temporary physical hunger.23:10-23:24Like the Jews in the wilderness who grumbled about God providing manna for 40 years, the crowds and even many of Jesus' disciples grumbled about Jesus being the true bread of God.23:25-23:32Like Moses, Jesus led and fed the people in ways that revealed His prophetic office.23:33-23:35But they did not all believe.23:36-23:37They took offense at Him.23:39-23:42Many turned back and no longer walked with Him.23:45-23:50So Jesus asked the 12 if they too wanted to leave Him.23:50-23:52But Peter said, "Lord, to whom shall we go?23:53-23:55You have the words of eternal life.23:56-24:00And we have believed and have come to know that you are the Holy One of God.24:03-24:07You see, Peter recognized Jesus is more than the prophet.24:07-24:14He declares Jesus is the anointed one, the Son of God, because Jesus spoke God's words of eternal life.24:17-24:22And what was the most important thing that Jesus said during his earthly ministry?24:23-24:27What did he explicitly prophesy at least three times?24:29-24:33And what did he emphasize in other ways multiple times to his disciples?24:35-24:41That he would be mocked and flogged and crucified and that he would be raised to life the third day.24:42-24:44It's a pretty extraordinary prophecy.24:47-25:05But you see, this was extremely perplexing to the disciples because they said, "Jesus, you're telling the truth." And along with the words that he spoke and the signs and wonders that he performed, all of this amply demonstrated that Jesus was in fact the Messiah.25:06-25:14There's no way he could be a false prophet because they knew that a false prophet will die if he lies.25:16-25:18Look at Deuteronomy 18.20.25:19-25:38"The prophet who presumes to speak a word in my name, that I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet shall die." The religious leaders, particularly the Pharisees and their lawyers, they insisted that Jesus was a liar.25:39-25:43They claimed he was merely witnessing about himself and that his testimony wasn't true.25:45-25:57Well, Jesus countered that by saying that God the Father is also born witness about me and that he who sent me is true and I declare to the world what I have heard from him.25:58-26:02They did not understand that he'd been speaking to them about the Father.26:04-26:25So Jesus said to them, "When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he and that I do nothing on my own authority but speak just as the Father taught me." In this passage from John chapter 8, Jesus hints at what the religious leaders are planning to do to him.26:26-26:34They want to kill him, and he knows that their murderous maneuverings will result in his crucifixion.26:36-26:38You see, this is the supreme irony.26:39-26:42A prophet will die if he lies.26:43-26:49But they killed Jesus for telling the truth, just like they did the prophets of old.26:50-26:56And when Jesus was lifted up on the cross, his opponents thought he got what he deserved.26:57-27:06They were certain he was a false prophet, because if he wasn't, he wouldn't be suffering a vicious and humiliating death at the hand of Gentiles.27:09-27:17He was on the cross, the chief priests and other religious leaders mocked Him, saying, "He saved others. He can't save Himself.27:18-27:40Let the Christ, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross that we may see and believe." And yet in the midst of His agony, Jesus cried out, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" His enemies might have said, You're forsaken because you're a liar.27:41-27:44Everyone who gets hung on a tree is accursed.27:45-27:51The fact that we were able to get you crucified is proof that you, Jesus, are accursed by God.27:52-27:53You're no prophet.27:57-28:02But by crying out the first line of Psalm 22, my God, my God, why have you forsaken me?28:03-28:13Jesus continues to speak the word of God in a way that reveals that the cross is the culmination of his earthly mission.28:15-28:17Psalm 22 is a messianic psalm.28:18-28:22It summarizes the Messiah's humiliation and exaltation.28:23-28:24Let's look at a few passages.28:26-28:27Verses seven and eight.28:28-28:30All who see me mock me.28:30-28:32They make mouths at me.28:32-28:33"For they wag their heads.28:34-28:35"He trusts in the Lord.28:36-28:37"Let Him deliver him.28:37-28:44"Let Him rescue him, for He delights in him." Then verses 16 and 18, through 18.28:45-28:46"For dogs encompass me.28:47-28:49"A company of evil doers encircles me.28:50-28:53"They have pierced my hands and feet.28:53-28:55"I can count all my bones.28:55-28:57"They stare and gloat over me.28:57-29:00"They divide my garments among them.29:00-29:27"For My clothing they cast lots." And finally, verses 22-25, "Reflect the Father's care in the midst of Jesus' great suffering and His resurrection." He says, "I will tell of Your name to My brothers, and in the midst of the congregation, I will praise You." Stop there for a minute and think about that.29:28-29:34Christ is on the cross, and he's telling the name of God to his brothers.29:34-29:39In the midst of the congregation, he is praising God.29:40-29:42All you who fear the Lord, praise him.29:42-29:48All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him, and stand in awe of him.29:49-30:03All you offspring of Israel, for he is not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, "And He has not hidden His face from him, but He has heard when he cried to Him.30:04-30:19And from you comes my praise in the great congregation, my vows I will perform before those who fear Him." You see, even in the throes of death, Jesus preached to all who would listen and believe.30:20-30:38If those who heard Jesus cry began themselves to recite this Messianic Psalm, perhaps the realization began to take hold that what they were reciting was happening right before their eyes.30:41-31:00The psalmist's words are being fulfilled here and now, just as Jesus said, "When you have lifted up the Son of Man, "then you will know that I am He." And perhaps the horrible realization set in, we've killed the Messiah.31:01-31:12And perhaps that is why, as Luke records, all the crowds that had assembled for this spectacle, when they saw what had taken place, they returned home beating their breasts.31:13-31:15We have killed the Messiah.31:18-31:24But what looked like an accursed death to the crowd instead a triumph over death.31:25-31:34On the cross, Jesus put death to death, and in his resurrection, he offers eternal life to all who would believe in him.31:36-31:38All that Jesus said came to pass.31:39-31:41He said he would die, and he did.31:42-31:44He said he would return to life, and he did.31:45-31:48He is the reliable and trustworthy prophet.31:48-31:51Every word He spoke was true.31:53-31:55And He is still our prophet today.31:56-31:58We have His word.31:58-32:03We have God's word and His Spirit to lead us into all truth.32:05-32:17You know, everyone who preaches is obligated to faithfully and accurately speak in the name of the Lord Jesus and to preach His words, not our own.32:17-32:20In this way, Jesus is still our prophet.32:21-32:25He indwells his people to speak to his people from his word.32:28-32:35Therefore, now that you know that Jesus is the prophet, will you listen to him?32:38-32:45Will you daily cast off worldly thinking and unbiblical ideas and commit to reading and meditating on God's word?32:47-32:58Are you willing to jettison old patterns of negative thinking and replace them with what the Bible says about your worth and your purpose in Jesus Christ?32:58-33:05Will you conform your thinking to God's truth and Jesus' example and teaching?33:08-33:14Or will you continue to seek advice from the influencers and false prophets clamoring for your attention?33:16-33:17Will you look for guidance?33:18-33:26Will you look for guidance in the gudo that shapes and drives the lives of so many people?33:30-33:35The skeptic will say, "Ah, I don't believe anything in the Bible is true.33:36-33:37It offends my reason.33:38-33:39I'm an independent thinker.33:40-33:52I don't need a God or a religion to tell me what to do." But that same person has no problem with the collective hive mind telling them what to think.33:53-33:57And they'll employ artificial intelligence to do their thinking for them.34:00-34:03So much intelligence, so little wisdom.34:05-34:20The short of it is, if you refuse to listen to what Jesus says, If you take offense at him and his words, you're just like the Israelites and the religious leaders in past time.34:21-34:26You're essentially putting him to death in your heart and in your mind.34:28-34:31Now, there are probably very few people in this room that hate Jesus.34:34-34:44And if we took a survey of the people in this room, probably most of you would agree that, Yeah, we shouldn't be committing the kinds of sins which the world heartily approves.34:46-34:49We shouldn't be following all that chatter out there.34:51-35:05And yet how many of us choose to remain on friendly terms with the world and feel free to indulge in all its whims and entertainments and pleasures so long as we avoid open sin.35:08-35:22The most dangerous sin is the idea that we can listen to worldly prophets advocating for the lusts and pleasures of the world and follow along and yet still be devoted to Christ.35:23-35:30Beloved, you cannot listen to and serve multiple masters and still walk uprightly before Jesus Christ.35:31-35:35You must listen to Christ and serve Him only.35:38-36:14Jesus is the prophet. Will you believe in him? In some ways I have laid this sermon out like a closing argument in a court case. You've heard from the witnesses Moses, God the Father, Peter, and of course Jesus himself. And you have evidence to consider more than 5,000 people fed on a mountainside. Jesus transfigured on a mountain. And of course Jesus crucified on a cross just as he said he would be.36:17-36:36And then this singular fact. Jesus rose from the dead on the third day according to the Scriptures and according to his own prophetic words. He to pay the penalty for their sins and remove the penalty of death.36:37-36:43And rising again, he offers forgiveness of sin and eternal life for all who would believe in him.36:46-36:48So you've heard the evidence.36:49-36:51You must now render a verdict.36:52-36:59Will you believe that Jesus is everything he says he is, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world?37:00-37:03He's the one mediator between God the Father and humanity.37:04-37:07He is the only priest, prophet, and king.37:08-37:13And Jesus is the only name given among people under heaven by which we can be saved.37:15-37:22If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.37:23-37:26With the heart one believes and is justified.37:27-37:30and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.37:32-37:33Jesus is the prophet.37:35-37:37Will you speak His words?37:40-37:44As disciples of Christ, we are all prophets of His gospel.37:45-37:49We are to proclaim His life, death, and resurrection until He returns.37:50-37:52This is no mystery religion.37:53-37:56There is no hidden knowledge in the Scriptures.37:56-37:58There are no secret rites to perform.37:59-38:02The words of Christ are all out in the open.38:03-38:10And we have the awesome privilege of possessing the oracles of God, the word of God.38:10-38:13We have God's words in our hands.38:16-38:20It's not always been true, but it's true for us.38:22-38:28Do we have the ability to read it, to reason through it, to engage with it by the help of the Holy Spirit?38:31-38:38We can personally and intimately know God, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe.38:40-38:50Jesus reveals the truth so that we can repent of our sins, trust in His finished work on the cross and receive the gift of eternal life now and forever.38:55-39:16And we have the responsibility of repeating his words clearly to others so that they may hear and believe in him by faith too. God forgive us for shirking our responsibility to share the gospel and for being insensible to the the spiritual condition of the lost and the dying.39:18-39:19We must speak His words.39:19-39:22We must share the good news of what He has done.39:24-39:33We are like beggars dressed in fine linen telling other beggars where to find bread and new garments.39:34-39:37It is the most loving and kindest thing we can do.39:39-39:42as our worship team returns to the stage.39:45-39:46I will conclude with this.39:49-39:52Not everyone will listen to us.39:53-39:55But then they didn't all listen to Jesus either.39:57-39:58Not everyone will believe.40:00-40:02But then they did not all believe in Jesus either.40:04-40:08We are not responsible for the results of sharing the gospel.40:09-40:11The results are for God to work out.40:13-40:18Our responsibility is to faithfully speak the words of God from Scripture.40:19-40:24For faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.40:25-40:25Let's pray.40:28-40:31The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul.40:32-40:36The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.40:37-40:40The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart.40:42-40:45The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.40:47-40:49The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever.40:51-40:54The rules of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.40:56-41:04Let the words of our mouths and the meditation of our hearts be acceptable in your sight.41:04-41:08O Lord, our rock and our Redeemer.41:09-41:09Amen. Small Group DiscussionRead Deuteronomy 18:14-22What was your big take-away from this passage / message?Can you assess how deeply worldly ideas influence your thinking? What about how deeply they influence your view of Scripture? How about your walk with Christ?What expectations do you have of God? That is, what do you want from Him, and what do you want to hear from Him? How do these questions and your answers relate to Israel's history with the LORD?It was said the sermon was constructed like a closing argument, requiring a verdict. Imagine you are a jury member – was enough evidence and testimony presented to render a judgment that Jesus is the Messiah? If not, what further evidence would you seek? Where would you look for that evidence?What are some reasons we don't take seriously our responsibility share the Gospel of Christ with others? How valid are those reasons?BreakoutPray for one another.

*Listen to the Show notes and podcast transcript with this multi-language player. Summary This conversation reveals that true sonship is formed through a deep relationship with God expressed in both His love and His discipline. While many understand God's love as comfort and affection, the speakers emphasize that His love is most powerfully revealed through refinement, correction, and personal dealings. As believers draw near to God in worship and surrender, He responds not only with comfort, but with transformation—shaping the heart, mind, and nature into His likeness. This process often involves trials, testing, and discipline, which are not signs of rejection, but evidence of acceptance as sons. Sonship is not automatic—it is a choice to walk with God through whatever He allows, trusting that every experience is designed for growth, holiness, and maturity. Over time, what once felt painful becomes understood as love, and even embraced as part of becoming fully aligned with the Father's heart. Show Notes 1. Being Set Apart and Transformed Salvation is a transfer of ownership—giving your whole life to GodGod begins actively working in the heart to bring changeAdvancement in God always produces inner transformation 2. Love Expressed Through Relationship Worship and love deepen intimacy with GodAs we love Him, we become more aware of His loveRelationship is cultivated through ongoing communion with the Father 3. God's Love Through Discipline God's response to closeness is refinement, not just comfortDiscipline is aimed at making us partakers of His holinessEach person's process is uniquely “tailor-made” by God 4. The Path of Sonship Is a Choice God does not force sonship—He invites itWalking as a son requires accepting disciplineGrowth depends on how far we choose to walk with Him 5. Learning to Embrace Trials Trials and testing are opportunities for growthThankfulness in difficulty accelerates maturityLooking back reveals God's purpose in every hardship 6. The Fire of God as Love God's fire refines and cleanses those who love HimJudgment becomes purification for those who receive HimHis love removes what is not like Him 7. Trusting the Father's Process Trust is foundational to enduring disciplineSpiritual maturity produces rest in difficult circumstancesGod uses every situation to reveal His love and build faith 8. Becoming the Bride and Sons of God God's love is relational and purposefulWe are being formed into a people aligned with His heartSonship and relationship lead into union with Christ Key Quotes “As God thrusts us into a new level, it brings about a change in our heart.” — Dale“The more we love Him, the more we experience His love.” — Ken“When you draw near to God, His response is to discipline you.” — Ron“He disciplines us so we can be partakers of His holiness.” — Ron“The fire is His love… it's refining and cleansing.” — Lois“If you want to be a son, you've got to accept His discipline.” — Debbie“He'll walk with you as far as you want to walk.” — Ron“Learn to thank Him in the trial.” — Ken“There is a trust and rest because you know who you have believed.” — Ron Scriptural References Hebrews 12 (6, 10–11)“He disciplines every son whom He receives… that we may share His holiness.”Hebrews 12 (7)“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as His children.”James 1 (2–4)Trials produce endurance and maturityRomans 8 (14–17)Sons of God are led by the SpiritRomans 8 (28–29)All things work together for good… conformed to His imagePsalm 23 (4)“Though I walk through the valley… I will fear no evil”Galatians 3 (28)New creation identity in Christ1 Peter 4 (17)Judgment begins at the house of GodHebrews 3 (14)“If we hold firmly… we share in Christ” Takeaway God's love is not just something we feel—it is something that transforms us. If you truly want to grow into sonship, you must embrace both His love and His discipline. The very things that feel difficult are often the clearest evidence that He is working in you. ? Sonship is a choice: To trust Him. To walk with Him. To thank Him—even in the fire. Because in the end, every trial is shaping you into His image—and drawing you deeper into His heart.

Who's really in charge of your life? In Luke 6, Jesus steps into direct conflict with religious leaders and exposes a tension that still exists today. It's not just about what you believe, but who you're following. Religion tries to earn God's approval through rules, while Jesus invites us into a relationship marked by grace, surrender, and transformation. This message challenges us to examine our hearts. Are we open to what God is doing, or are we holding onto control? Because when we resist Jesus, we risk missing the very work He's doing right in front of us.• Jesus confronts the difference between religion and a real relationship with God• A hard heart leads to criticism, control, and missing the work of God• God works through surrendered people, but may move around those who resist HimKey Scriptures:Luke 6:1–16Jeremiah 17:9Proverbs 4:23Proverbs 14:30Take time this week to honestly ask: who is leading my life? Invite Jesus to search your heart and surrender every area to Him. If this message challenged you, share it with someone who needs to hear it.Bayou City Fellowship Cypress Campus | Kevin Barra | March 22, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

From Hinduism to Jesus Powerful Testimony of Transformation – Ashwin Ramani What if the person least likely to follow Jesus became one of His boldest messengers? In this powerful testimony, Pastor Ashwin Ramani shares how God radically transformed his life—from growing up in a devout Hindu family in India to becoming a follower of Jesus Christ and pastor in Canada. As a teenager, Ashwin mocked Christians and rejected the gospel. But through unexpected encounters—including online conversations and a life-changing message about God's grace—everything changed. This is a story of: • Faith in the face of opposition • The power of persistent prayer • God pursuing one heart across nations • The truth that no one is beyond salvation Despite rejection from his own family and intense emotional trials, Ashwin experienced the presence of God in a life-altering way that gave him strength, joy, and purpose. Today, his story is living proof that: Jesus is still transforming lives. Key Takeaways ✔ No one is too far from God ✔ God answers prayer—even years later ✔ Grace is greater than our past ✔ The gospel still changes lives today 

David Kibler's message on Sunday, March 15th, 2026 at Catalyst Christian Church.

Today begins a consideration of the relationship the regenerate have to “the law of God.” What was missing in my understanding of that relationship was a fully-developed, biblically sound understanding what is meant by image of God. I believe the phrase has become a shibboleth in a society of unregenerate persons, and is a mystery even for many Christians. I explain why and offer two consequences of a wrong or incomplete understanding of that image.

Behold, I Do a New Thing | Isaiah 43 | Pastor GlenIn this encouraging message, Pastor Glen walks through Isaiah 43 and reminds us of God's powerful promise: “Behold, I am doing a new thing.”God calls His people by name, redeems them, and assures them that they are never alone. Even in deep waters, raging storms, and fiery trials, His presence remains constant. The same God who made a way through the sea is still making a way today.This message explores how God invites us to stop dwelling on the past and begin recognizing the new work He is doing. As we draw closer to Him and grow in intimacy with Him, we gain the ability to perceive the new paths He is creating in our lives.In this message you'll be reminded that:• You are known and chosen by God• God walks with you through every trial• He is always making a way where there seems to be none• Intimacy with God helps us recognize the new things He is doingNo matter what season you are in, God is faithful to lead His people forward. The question is: Will you perceive it?

Jesus didn't just die — He was forsaken. For 3 hours, darkness covered the land, and the Son of God cried out “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” — and the Father didn't answer.In this episode, Alex walks through Matthew 27:46-50 and uncovers what actually happened in those 3 hours on the cross, why Jesus stopped calling God “Father,” and what it means that He declared “It is finished.”If you've ever felt like God went silent on you, or if you're still secretly trying to earn what Jesus already paid for — this one's for you.Topics covered: The 3 hours of darkness and what they represent | Why Jesus called God “God” instead of “Father” | What “It is finished” actually means for your everyday life | Why your salvation can't be 99% — it has to be 100% | How bad theology leads us to look for salvation in the wrong places

Jesus didn't just die — He was forsaken. For 3 hours, darkness covered the land, and the Son of God cried out “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” — and the Father didn't answer.In this episode, Alex walks through Matthew 27:46-50 and uncovers what actually happened in those 3 hours on the cross, why Jesus stopped calling God “Father,” and what it means that He declared “It is finished.”If you've ever felt like God went silent on you, or if you're still secretly trying to earn what Jesus already paid for — this one's for you.Topics covered: The 3 hours of darkness and what they represent | Why Jesus called God “God” instead of “Father” | What “It is finished” actually means for your everyday life | Why your salvation can't be 99% — it has to be 100% | How bad theology leads us to look for salvation in the wrong places

“The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.” (Psalm 10:4) It is significant that the word “wicked” does not necessarily... More...