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Welcome to Life Church! This week Pastor Drew Tucker teaches from HebrewsFor more news and updates or to sign up for our weekly emails, please visit our website: https://www.lifechurchclt.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifechurchclt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifechurchcltYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifechurchcharlotte1632
In this episode, Pastor Rachel explores the profound reality of "Signs and Wonders in the Family," declaring that God's design for the home is not a struggle for survival, but a supernatural journey where children are intended to be "signs and wonders" (Isaiah 8:18). Using the metaphor of an Olympic shooter, she challenges families to ensure they are aiming for the right "bullseye"—the passing down of faith—rather than being distracted by secular achievements. Grounded in Psalm 127:3-5, the message describes children as "arrows" that must be carefully crafted with a strong identity, a foundation in the character of God, and a sharp focus on the Word of God (Hebrews 4:12). Listeners are encouraged to embrace the "12:30 rule" from Mark 12:30, living with a wholehearted commitment to love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. By anchoring their homes in the "Three Rs"—the truth that God is real, God is right, and God is a rewarder—parents and children can confidently stand on Joshua 24:15, choosing to serve the Lord while practicing the "family challenge": "I am here for you and God is here for us".
God has spoken most clearly and completely through His Son. Guest speaker, author, and pastor Tony Merida walks through Hebrews 1:1–4, highlighting the supremacy of Christ as the full revelation of God and the One who upholds all things by His power. The passage declares that Jesus accomplished our purification from sin and now reigns at the Father's right hand with unmatched glory. We are reminded to fix our eyes on Christ, whose greatness calls for our complete trust and worship.
Sunday BBC Church Worship Sermon 8 9 2026 Honoring God HEBREWS 13 - Pastor Patrick Rhodes - trimmed by Patrick Rhodes
"Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water." Hebrews 10:22 Hebrews 10:22 is not an isolated invitation. It rests upon everything Paul has established concerning the finished work, sufficient sacrifice, and present priesthood of Jesus Christ. The command to "draw near" is therefore not built upon religious emotion, human merit, ceremonial observance, or personal worthiness. It is built entirely upon what Christ accomplished through His blood. Have you recently decided to follow Jesus? Take your next step with Jesus: https://cbcgb.co.uk ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.
"Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water." Hebrews 10:22 Hebrews 10:22 is not an isolated invitation. It rests upon everything Paul has established concerning the finished work, sufficient sacrifice, and present priesthood of Jesus Christ. The command to "draw near" is therefore not built upon religious emotion, human merit, ceremonial observance, or personal worthiness. It is built entirely upon what Christ accomplished through His blood. Have you recently decided to follow Jesus? Take your next step with Jesus: https://cbcgb.co.uk ⛪ ABOUT CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCHES: We believe that our Calvary Baptist Churches are a movement for all people to know God, Reaching Others, Building Lives, Honouring God and Make a Difference.
Jason Hansen continues our series on Hebrews.Learn more about us at anchorchurchgilbert.com.Do you have any questions about the sermon? Text them to 480-660-3828.
My name is Rev. Alvin Lewis of Power To Change Ministry. Thank you for sharing your day with us, we would love to hear from you, your feedback is very important.Hebrews 10:35-36 (KJV)35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. 36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.Power To Change Ministry Rev. Alvin LewisPowertochangeministry@gmail.ComPowertochangeministry.org973-583-7482
The second elementary principle listed by the Hebrew writer is “faith towards God” (Hebrews 6:1). It is impossible to please God without faith (Hebrews 11:6). However, it is imperative that we understand faith as the Bible portrays it.
Sermon Title: The Faith of the Fathers Core Theme: Understanding, valuing, and walking in the biblical technology of faith by following the examples, characteristics, and unwavering faith of the patriarchs of old. Part I: Foundations of Faith & The Apostolic Gathering 1. Introduction & The Apostolic Context The Nature of an Apostolic Gathering: In an apostolic gathering, God delivers assigned or sent messages designed to bring transformation, position the church for an unusual manifestation of power, heal sicknesses, and deliver people from oppressions. The Danger of Distraction: Many believers miss out on their breakthroughs because of distractions (e.g., admiring outfits, side conversations, checking phones). Just as God put Adam into a deep sleep to form Eve without distraction, God requires deep attentiveness so believers do not miss the specific, life-altering words designed for them. Biblical Example: In Acts 3, Peter and John told the lame man, "Look on us." Attention is required to receive a miracle; distraction robs people of their blessings. 2. The Supremacy and Vital Importance of Faith Foundation of Christianity: There is no Christianity without faith. Salvation, experiences of God, pleasing God, and receiving inheritance are all accessed through faith. Guarding Against End-Time Obsolete Elements: Loss of Genuine Love for God: Revelation 2:4-5 warns against leaving one's first love. Matthew 24:12 notes that in the end times, iniquity will abound and the love of many will wax cold, causing people to love pleasure more than God. Loss of Faith: Luke 18:8 asks, "When the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?" Hebrews 10:23 commands believers to hold fast the profession of their faith without wavering and to assemble together to safeguard it. Contending for the Faith: Jude 1:3 urges believers to "earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints." Faith is a fight; believers must learn how to fight to maintain it (Hebrews 6:12). 3. The Faith of the Fathers (The Patriarchs) Definition of the Fathers: This refers to the biblical characters, apostles, and prophets from the Old and New Testaments (e.g., Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, Elijah, Elisha, Apostle Paul, Jesus) who walked with God by faith. Hebrews 11 Overview (The Hall of Faith): Hebrews 11:1: Faith is "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:2: "For by it the elders obtained a good report." The patriarchs obtained divine testimonies and good report cards of life through faith, not human effort. Why We Must Follow Their Faith: It is the established pattern and lifestyle of the Kingdom (Habakkuk 2:4: "The just shall live by his faith"). It is a guarantee of receiving the promises (Hebrews 6:12). It protects believers from self-glorification and self-dependence. 4. Faith vs. Works & Self-Glory The Error of Self-Justification: Romans 4:2-4 explains that if Abraham was justified by works, he would have something to boast about, but not before God. Human effort, self-confidence, and fleshly works always fail before God. When people rely on their own wealth, degrees, or abilities, it leads to pride and abomination before God (e.g., the rich fool in Luke 12, King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel). The DNA of Faith: Faith completely negates self-glory. True faith is anchored entirely on the goodness and grace of God, meaning God gets all the glory when breakthroughs happen. The Inclusion of the Uncircumcised: Romans 4:9-12 clarifies that Abraham's righteousness was accounted to him while he was uncircumcised. Circumcision was merely a sign/seal. This proves that both Jews and Gentiles can access this justification and inherit the promises simply by believing, regardless of background. Part II: Characteristics and Evidence of the Faith of the Fathers 1. Key Characteristics of the Faith of the Fathers To walk effectively in this dimension, believers must emulate the core characteristics displayed by the patriarchs: (1) Born Out of Intimacy: Real faith is birthed out of personal encounters and deep fellowship with God, not just copied principles (Romans 10:17: "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God"). Biblical Examples: Moses spoke with God face-to-face, "as a man speaks to his friend" (Exodus 33:11). Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob all had life-altering personal encounters with God. Without intimacy, faith becomes weak. (2) Unwaving Trust in God's Abilities and Promises: The faith of the fathers maintains absolute confidence in God that does not shake under pressure or opposing circumstances (Romans 4:18-21 regarding Abraham; Hebrews 11:32-34). (3) Uncontested Obedience Despite the Cost: True faith obeys God completely, regardless of human logic or personal sacrifice. Biblical Example: Abraham demonstrated uncontested obedience when asked to offer Isaac (Genesis 22), calling his act of surrender "worship" (Genesis 22:5). (4) Persistence and Perseverance through Trials: James 1:2-4 encourages believers to count it all joy when facing trials because testing produces endurance. Biblical Example: David remained steadfast when facing Goliath (1 Samuel 17), viewing trials as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks. Job maintained his trust through extreme suffering (Job 2:10, 42:10). (5) Willingness to Act Out Their Faith (Violent/Audacious Faith): Faith requires action and boldness. The fathers acted out their convictions with holy audacity—whether it was shutting mouths of lions, quenching fires, or stepping into impossible waters (Hebrews 11:33-34). 2. The Ultimate Benefits of Following Their Faith Nothing Shall Be Impossible: When operating in this realm of faith, impossibilities are eradicated (Mark 9:23). Pleasing God: Without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Divine Positioning & Generational Legacy: Faith transfers blessings, changes family lineages (shifting families from poverty to abundance, or from obscurity to leadership like Joseph and David), and leaves a permanent mark of victory across generations. 3. Conclusion & Call to Action Stand Your Ground: Refuse to be moved by negative circumstances, family history, economic hardships, or medical reports. Make the Decision: Shift your focus from self-dependence and social media distractions to deep spiritual intimacy with God. The Final Declaration: As the year progresses toward its close, anchor your life on unwavering, unshakeable faith, and step boldly into the supernatural manifestations prepared for you in Christ.
Sermon Title: The Faith of the Fathers Core Theme: Understanding, valuing, and walking in the biblical technology of faith by following the examples, characteristics, and unwavering faith of the patriarchs of old. Part I: Foundations of Faith & The Apostolic Gathering 1. Introduction & The Apostolic Context The Nature of an Apostolic Gathering: In an apostolic gathering, God delivers assigned or sent messages designed to bring transformation, position the church for an unusual manifestation of power, heal sicknesses, and deliver people from oppressions. The Danger of Distraction: Many believers miss out on their breakthroughs because of distractions (e.g., admiring outfits, side conversations, checking phones). Just as God put Adam into a deep sleep to form Eve without distraction, God requires deep attentiveness so believers do not miss the specific, life-altering words designed for them. Biblical Example: In Acts 3, Peter and John told the lame man, "Look on us." Attention is required to receive a miracle; distraction robs people of their blessings. 2. The Supremacy and Vital Importance of Faith Foundation of Christianity: There is no Christianity without faith. Salvation, experiences of God, pleasing God, and receiving inheritance are all accessed through faith. Guarding Against End-Time Obsolete Elements: Loss of Genuine Love for God: Revelation 2:4-5 warns against leaving one's first love. Matthew 24:12 notes that in the end times, iniquity will abound and the love of many will wax cold, causing people to love pleasure more than God. Loss of Faith: Luke 18:8 asks, "When the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?" Hebrews 10:23 commands believers to hold fast the profession of their faith without wavering and to assemble together to safeguard it. Contending for the Faith: Jude 1:3 urges believers to "earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints." Faith is a fight; believers must learn how to fight to maintain it (Hebrews 6:12). 3. The Faith of the Fathers (The Patriarchs) Definition of the Fathers: This refers to the biblical characters, apostles, and prophets from the Old and New Testaments (e.g., Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, Elijah, Elisha, Apostle Paul, Jesus) who walked with God by faith. Hebrews 11 Overview (The Hall of Faith): Hebrews 11:1: Faith is "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." Hebrews 11:2: "For by it the elders obtained a good report." The patriarchs obtained divine testimonies and good report cards of life through faith, not human effort. Why We Must Follow Their Faith: It is the established pattern and lifestyle of the Kingdom (Habakkuk 2:4: "The just shall live by his faith"). It is a guarantee of receiving the promises (Hebrews 6:12). It protects believers from self-glorification and self-dependence. 4. Faith vs. Works & Self-Glory The Error of Self-Justification: Romans 4:2-4 explains that if Abraham was justified by works, he would have something to boast about, but not before God. Human effort, self-confidence, and fleshly works always fail before God. When people rely on their own wealth, degrees, or abilities, it leads to pride and abomination before God (e.g., the rich fool in Luke 12, King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel). The DNA of Faith: Faith completely negates self-glory. True faith is anchored entirely on the goodness and grace of God, meaning God gets all the glory when breakthroughs happen. The Inclusion of the Uncircumcised: Romans 4:9-12 clarifies that Abraham's righteousness was accounted to him while he was uncircumcised. Circumcision was merely a sign/seal. This proves that both Jews and Gentiles can access this justification and inherit the promises simply by believing, regardless of background. Part II: Characteristics and Evidence of the Faith of the Fathers 1. Key Characteristics of the Faith of the Fathers To walk effectively in this dimension, believers must emulate the core characteristics displayed by the patriarchs: (1) Born Out of Intimacy: Real faith is birthed out of personal encounters and deep fellowship with God, not just copied principles (Romans 10:17: "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God"). Biblical Examples: Moses spoke with God face-to-face, "as a man speaks to his friend" (Exodus 33:11). Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob all had life-altering personal encounters with God. Without intimacy, faith becomes weak. (2) Unwaving Trust in God's Abilities and Promises: The faith of the fathers maintains absolute confidence in God that does not shake under pressure or opposing circumstances (Romans 4:18-21 regarding Abraham; Hebrews 11:32-34). (3) Uncontested Obedience Despite the Cost: True faith obeys God completely, regardless of human logic or personal sacrifice. Biblical Example: Abraham demonstrated uncontested obedience when asked to offer Isaac (Genesis 22), calling his act of surrender "worship" (Genesis 22:5). (4) Persistence and Perseverance through Trials: James 1:2-4 encourages believers to count it all joy when facing trials because testing produces endurance. Biblical Example: David remained steadfast when facing Goliath (1 Samuel 17), viewing trials as stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks. Job maintained his trust through extreme suffering (Job 2:10, 42:10). (5) Willingness to Act Out Their Faith (Violent/Audacious Faith): Faith requires action and boldness. The fathers acted out their convictions with holy audacity—whether it was shutting mouths of lions, quenching fires, or stepping into impossible waters (Hebrews 11:33-34). 2. The Ultimate Benefits of Following Their Faith Nothing Shall Be Impossible: When operating in this realm of faith, impossibilities are eradicated (Mark 9:23). Pleasing God: Without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Divine Positioning & Generational Legacy: Faith transfers blessings, changes family lineages (shifting families from poverty to abundance, or from obscurity to leadership like Joseph and David), and leaves a permanent mark of victory across generations. 3. Conclusion & Call to Action Stand Your Ground: Refuse to be moved by negative circumstances, family history, economic hardships, or medical reports. Make the Decision: Shift your focus from self-dependence and social media distractions to deep spiritual intimacy with God. The Final Declaration: As the year progresses toward its close, anchor your life on unwavering, unshakeable faith, and step boldly into the supernatural manifestations prepared for you in Christ.
Wednesday, 22 July 2026 He answered and said, ‘I will not,' but afterward he regretted it and went. Matthew 21:29 “The ‘also answering', he said, ‘Not, I will.' Afterward, also, having regretted, he went.” (CG) The previous verse noted that Jesus asked the leaders about a man with two sons. The man went to the first and asked him to go work in the vineyard. The son's response is next recorded by Matthew, saying, “The ‘also answering', he said, ‘Not, I will.'” Without hesitation, the son refuses to go. His attitude is reflected in the abrupt, disrespectful response. There wasn't any excuse-making or trying to work around the refusal with platitudes. He just refused outright. Without jumping ahead, it is apparent that Jesus is making a point about a group of people who are disrespectful and unwilling to do what their “Father” has asked them to do. As seen in the previous verse, the vineyard represents the economy (a cultural expression) where God is dealing with man in order to bring about a result. Despite knowing this, who this son represents is still up in the air. Jesus will define it in the verses ahead, though. As for his negative attitude, Jesus next says, “Afterward, also, having regretted, he went.” A new word is seen here, metamelomai. It is derived from meta, after, and meló, to be of interest to. Specifically, it means “to care afterwards.” Thus, it is translated as remorse or regret. This is not the same as metanoeó, to reconsider (or, as many translations say, repent). That signifies a change of mind. This does not necessarily signify a change of mind, but a state of regret. A person can get caught stealing and regret his actions, but there may be no reconsideration about the path he is on. Regret can lead to reconsideration, but it does not necessarily do so. A person who refuses to wear shoes may regret stepping in an ant pile, but it doesn't mean he will reconsider having bare feet. This is especially so because he knows that ants will bite a person who wears shoes, often more violently than the barefooted person. because they have time to get into socks before they begin tearing into the poor hapless soul. Life application: Words have importance in Scripture. Different words with similar meaning are used at times, and it must be considered why this is so. Vincent's Word Studies gives a lengthy analysis of the word metamelomai – “This is a different word from that in Matthew 3:2; Matthew 4:17; μετανοεῖτε [metanoeite], Repent ye. Though it is fairly claimed that the word here implies all that is implied in the other word, the New Testament writers evidently recognize a distinction, since the noun which corresponds to the verb in this passage (μεταμέλεια [metameleia]) is not used at all in the New Testament, and the verb itself only five times; and, in every case except the two in this passage (see Matthew 21:32), with a meaning quite foreign to repentance in the ordinary gospel sense. Thus it is used of Judas, when he brought back the thirty pieces (Matthew 27:3); of Paul's not regretting his letter to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 7:8); and of God (Hebrews 7:21). On the other hand, μετανοέω [metanoeo], repent, used by John and Jesus in their summons to repentance (Matthew 3:2; Matthew 4:17), occurs thirty-four times, and the noun μετάνοια [metanoia], repentance (Matthew 3:8, Matthew 3:11), twenty-four times, and in every case with reference to that change of heart and life wrought by the Spirit of God, to which remission of sins and salvation are promised. It is not impossible, therefore, that the word in this passage may have been intended to carry a different shade of meaning, now lost to us. Μεταμέλομαι [metamelomai], as its etymology indicates (μετά [meta], after, and μέλω [meló], to be an object of care), implies an after-care, as contrasted with the change of mind denoted by μετάνοια [metanoia]. Not sorrow for moral obliquity and sin against God, but annoyance at the consequences of an act or course of acts, and chagrin at not having known better. ‘It may be simply what our fathers were wont to call hadiwist (had-I-wist, or known better, I should have acted otherwise)' (Trench). Μεταμέλεια [metameleia] refers chiefly to single acts; μετάνοια [metanoia] denotes the repentance which affects the whole life. Hence the latter is often found in the imperative: Repent ye (Matthew 3:2; Matthew 4:17; Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19); the former never. Paul's recognition of the distinction (2 Corinthians 7:10) is noteworthy. ‘Godly sorrow worketh repentance (μετάνοιαν [metanoian]) unto salvation,' a salvation or repentance ‘which bringeth no regret on thinking of it afterwards' (ἀμεταμέλητον [ametameleton]). There is no occasion for one ever to think better of either his repentance or the salvation in which it issued.” It is good to evaluate such seemingly trivial changes in wording to grasp the nuances of what God is telling us. This is especially so when translations quite often fail to indicate that different words are being used. For example, the KJV says in this verse, “He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went.” How can one know that a different word is used if the translators fail to make a distinction between the two? From the analysis of Vincent's Word Studies, it is obvious that repent incorrectly identifies what is being conveyed. Therefore, it is good that the NKJV cleaned up the translation, making it more in line with the intent of the Greek. Pay attention to these subtleties. If you are unsure about the meaning, go to a reliable Greek lexicon, which can be found online, and do a personal study. You will surely be rewarded with valuable insights when you do. Lord God, thank You for how intricately You have woven Your word together to give us a precise and detailed record of Your workings in human history to bring us back to Yourself. What a treat and a joy it is to study Your precious word. Amen.
Understanding the completed work of Christ should drive us to become active in our faith
Sunday Morning July 12, 2026
Jason Hansen continues our series on Hebrews.Learn more about us at anchorchurchgilbert.com.Do you have any questions about the sermon? Text them to 480-660-3828.
A New Desire! Our New Nature has an inbred desire to serve God, doing what is right [1 John 2:29; 3:3; Psalm 51:10-12]. The writer of Hebrews says, ". . . the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God . . . in all things desiring to live honorably" (Hebrews 9:14; 13:18). John gives us insight into the nature of our new Spirit and desire when he wrote, "Whoever is born of God does not commit sin; for His seed remains in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God" (1 John 3:9). This truth emphasizes the position of our new Spirit in Christ, which cannot sin and desires to serve God. We are born of love [1 John 5:1-2], the salt of the earth and light of the world [Matthew 5:13; 16]. We have the power and life of God living in us [Acts 1:8]. We are a new creation and made right with God [2 Corinthians 5:17, 21]. We walk as disciplined children in newness of life [Romans 6:2-14] and in the heavenly places [Ephesians 1:16-2:6], as dear children knowing our God, "Who has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the Kingdom of the Son of His love" (Colossians 1:13). Yet, we still sin in certain areas of our soul [mind, will and emotions] that need to be confessed in humility. As Spirit-filled believers, we desire to live and act in a manner which is pleasing to God [Hebrews 11:6]. As new creations, our thoughts, choices and emotions shape our bodily actions into a new lifestyle. Like the Apostle Paul, our motto becomes, ". . . I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who lives, but Christ lives in me, and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me, and gave Himself for me" (Galatians 2:20). Join me as we study these Scriptures together. Selah! [For more: Copy and Paste or Enter into ChatGPT, "Create a Study Guide for Episode #811 A New Desire from Abounding Love Ministries" ]. www.aboundinglove.org
Pastor Trey continued our series on Hebrews 11, titled "Not By Sight." We looked at Noah in verses 6-7. Listen and learn why Noah is included in the "Hall of Faith" and what his example means for us today!This message is from 6/21/26
Troy Gambrell
All Will Know God (Hebrews 8:6-13)
Faith that Pleases God- Hebrews 11 WK1 Sunday BBC Church Worship Sermon 6 7 2026 Pastor Rhodes - trimmed by Patrick Rhodes
I Will Be Their God (Hebrews 8:6-13)
A sermon from our series on How to Speak Life. Date: 07 June 2026 Speaker: Tom Conyers Hebrews 1:1-4 1 John 4:7-21 www.stmatthews.com.au/unichurch
YouTube Video Description (clear, detailed — no timeline) Discover a biblical pathway to lasting peace in a restless world. This sermon explores how Jesus and the New Testament writers define, give, and call us to pursue peace using John 14:25–27, John 16:33, 2 Thessalonians 3:16, Philippians 4:6–7, 1 Peter 3:11, and Hebrews 12:14. You'll receive clear teaching and practical steps to apply today: Hear Jesus' promise of peace that overcomes fear and confusion (John 14:25–27; John 16:33). Learn how the Holy Spirit and Christ's presence guard our hearts and minds (John 14:25–27; Philippians 4:6–7). Embrace Paul's blessing of peace and the quiet strength it brings in community (2 Thessalonians 3:16). Practice gospel-centered habits that reduce anxiety and invite God's peace—prayer, thanksgiving, and right relationships (Philippians 4:6–7; 1 Peter 3:11). Understand holiness and peace as linked—pursuing peace means pursuing a life aligned with God (Hebrews 12:14). Whether you're wrestling with worry, relational conflict, or a restless soul, this message offers hope, spiritual tools, and encouragement to walk in God's peace. Subscribe for more teachings and share with someone who needs calm and courage today.
Mark 8:31-9:1 31 And he began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32 And he said this plainly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” 34 And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35 For whoever would save his life[a] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. 36 For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? 37 For what can a man give in return for his soul? 38 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” 9:1 And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” ESV LESSON NOTES / DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Icebreaker: As you think back to your childhood/over your parenting, what books do you remember reading the most? What was/is your or your kids favorite? Lesson Note 1: The necessary path Jesus had to walk included great suffering. Question: As you think about how Jesus handled/walked this path, what draws you closer to Him? What amazes you? Lesson Note 2: Jesus' necessary teaching invoked a strong response from Peter. "Our feelings express our intuitive view of how well our situation is providing for and protecting what we love...What you care about shapes what you feel. Your emotions are always expressing the thing you love, value, and treasure, whether you understand them or not." (Untangling Emotions) Jesus revealed that the unexpected path of the Messiah would achieve glory through suffering. Question: Have you ever received news that you didn't expect? How did you respond? Over the past week or so, what have been the most dominating emotions you have experienced? What do you think these emotions reveal about what you love, value, and treasure? Lesson Note 3: The root of the devil's temptation in Matthew 4:8-10 is repeated in Mark 8. The devil's temptation to Jesus, both personally and through Peter, was for Jesus to receive the glory without the suffering, to receive the crown without the cross. yet, Jesus always had His mind on the things of God (Hebrews 2:14-15). Jesus understood that there was a necessary path He had to travel on His journey. Question: As you examine your season of life, what temptations or pressures push you the hardest towards the path of least resistance? Lesson Note 4: The necessary path of Jesus illuminates the necessary path of all His disciples must travel. In Jesus' sudden shift to "the crowd" He shows us that the conditions to follow Him are the same for every single person: - To "deny (myself)" combats the lie that I am the center of my life. It is to radically oppose self-idolatry. - To "take up (my) cross" combats the lie that I control my life. It is the daily crucifixion of my own selfish agenda. - To "follow Jesus" combats the lie that I am the compass of my life. It is to humbly abide with Jesus as he directs the pace and the path of my life. Question: Do any of these aspects of Jesus' teaching stick out the most to you? Why? Lesson Note 5: These concluding verses of Jesus' teaching provide some proper perspectives for disciples as we journey through our lives: - Verse 35 - Proper perspective on authentic living: For the disciple of Jesus, authentic living is not found in self-centeredness, but it is found in Christ-centeredness. - Verse 36-37 - Proper perspective on what is truly valuable: For the disciples of Jesus, the value of the soul far outweighs the value of worldly gains. - Verse 38 - Proper perspective on our personal choices - For the disciple of Jesus, the choice to boldly follow Jesus is always the right choice even when my flesh, my circumstances, and the culture tell me its not. Question: As you process these proper perspectives that Jesus gav, how do they speak to you in your current season of life? Lesson Note 6: The lifestyle of denying self, bearing our cross, and following Jesus is very hard, but it does not end in defeat. Christ reveals that the necessary path He walked will lead to death, but it will also lead to resurrection. Just as the suffering of Jesus led to His glory, in Jesus, our suffering will also be transformed into glory (1 Peter 5:10-11). Question: In what ways do these words of Jesus bring you hope, comfort, etc in your current rhythms of life?
April 24, 2026 - Equipped 2026 - Day 2 - 2:30 PM Session Location: Room 116 Instructor: Richard Melson Title: Text Messages - Genesis Characters in Acts Summary Richard Melson delivered a lecture emphasizing how Genesis undergirds the New Testament, particularly Acts, by presenting God's plan of redemption conceived before the foundation of the world. He clarified a misunderstanding about the session's title (“Genesis characters in Acts” versus “text messages”), asserting the focus is character studies of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph as referenced in Acts 3 and 7. Melson highlighted God's sovereignty, covenant promises, and faithfulness, and urged believers to be consistent, courageous, and convinced—traits exemplified by the patriarchs despite their flaws. He traced key Genesis passages, connected them to Acts 3:13, Acts 3:25, and Stephen's sermon in Acts 7, and discussed “character” as tested and approved, with Jesus as the express image of God (Hebrews 1:3). He underscored redemption in type (Genesis 3:21), the seed promise (Genesis 3:15), genealogies' role in preserving the seed line, and parallels between Joseph and Jesus. The lecture concluded by stressing obedient, trusting faith (e.g., Mark 16:16 alluded in “believes and is baptized”) as the proper response to God's promises and plan. Duration 41:00
In this sermon from Nahum 1:1-2, Pastor Chris Stevenson introduces us to the book of Nahum, and we take a look at the historical setting and draw implications for our walk with the Lord today from this minor prophet.Nahum is often overlooked, but it gives us a clear and sobering picture of who God truly is. Many today prefer a version of God that is only loving—but Nahum reveals a fuller, more accurate picture.At the needed time, Nahum brought a prophetic word from God that reveals God's character in His divine wrath against Nineveh and encourages Judah to trust in God alone.The book of Nahum introduces us to the true and living God—a God who is just, zealous for His glory, and wrathful against sin, yet who calls people to repentance and offers mercy through Christ.This message calls us to know God as He truly is—not as we imagine Him to be. There is an urgency in the message of do not waste the mercy of God.“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God” (Hebrews 10:31)… but… “everyone who believes in Christ will not be put to shame” (Romans10:11)The God who judges sin is the same God who saves sinners.
On Ascension Sunday Pastor Lindsay explores the dual nature of Jesus's return to heaven: a source of both longing and empowerment for believers. The speaker first uses personal anecdotes about parental "pre-grieving" to frame the reluctance to see a loved one leave, acknowledging the common human wish that Jesus had simply stayed on Earth to provide clear direction. However, the text explains that Jesus ascended to fulfill two crucial roles: preparing individualized places for us in heaven (John 14:1-3) and serving as our eternal High Priest, constantly interceding for us before God (Hebrews 7:24-27). Most significantly, Jesus's ascension demonstrates His profound trust in His followers, who, despite their flaws, are equipped with the Holy Spirit and His teachings (Acts 1:8). The message concludes by challenging listeners to stop being passive "watchers" and become active "doers," recognizing that God loves them, trusts them, and has provided everything necessary for them to act. fmhouston.com
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On the Sunday of the Myrrhbearers, this homily examines the temptation to treat Christ as a figure of the past rather than the Living Lord. It explores how even faithful Christians can reduce Him to something studied at a distance—especially in an age of endless religious content. Grounded in the Church's sacramental and communal life, the message calls us to encounter Christ where He truly speaks: in His Body. The result is both comforting and demanding, as the living Christ not only teaches, but calls us to repentance and transformation. Enjoy the show! --- Homily for the Myrrhbearers St. Mark 15:43–16:8; Acts 6:1–7 Today we celebrate the holy Myrrhbearers: Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, the most holy Theotokos, Mary Magdalene, Mary the wife of Clopas, Joanna, Salome, Mary and Martha, and Susanna—those who loved Christ enough to come to Him even in death. Their love is beautiful. It is courageous. It is faithful. But it is also, in one very important way, mistaken. They came to anoint a corpse. They came expecting silence, stillness, finality. They came to do one last act of love for someone who was no longer present to receive it. And that is where we must be careful—because we can do the same thing. We sing again and again, "Christ is Risen!" But how often do we live as if He were not? Think about how we relate to the dead. We remember them. We honor them. We reflect on their words. We study what they said, and we try to apply it to our lives. But we do not expect them to speak to us now. We do not expect them to guide us in real time. And this is exactly how many Christians treat Christ. We treat Him as a figure from the past—a great teacher, whose words are preserved in a fixed collection of texts. If we want to know what He thinks, we go back and study what He said, like we would with Plato or any other historical figure. Please—do not misunderstand me. We need the Scriptures. We must study them. But if that is all we are doing—if Christ is only someone we study—then we are treating Him as if He were dead. Because if He were truly risen—if He were truly alive—then we would expect Him to still be teaching. And He is. Christ is alive—not only in heaven—but here and now. He lives in the hearts of the faithful. He lives in His sacraments. He lives most fully as the Head of His Body—the Church. And that means something very concrete: the Church is not a memory. She is not a museum. She is not an archive. She is alive. And here is where the danger comes in—because just as we can treat Christ as if He were dead, we can also treat the Church as if she were dead. We do this when we reduce her to an institution, when we treat her traditions as relics instead of life, when we experience the Liturgy as repetition instead of encounter, and when we assume that nothing truly happens here—nothing new, nothing real—only the preservation of the past. We do this when we think, "I already know what the Church says," "I'll decide how to apply it," or "I'll take what is helpful." But a living body does not work that way. If Christ is alive, then His Body is alive. And if His Body is alive, then it speaks—not just in the past, but now. In the hymns, in the prayers, in the canons, in the counsel of those who are faithful and wise, in the real, sometimes difficult life of the parish—where we are taught through living out our salvation with one another, in patience, repentance, and love—and in the quiet voice that speaks when we have learned to be still. And this leads to the second reaction—the more difficult one. It is one thing to doubt that Christ is speaking. It is another thing to realize that He is. Because "it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (Hebrews 10:31). A dead teacher can be interpreted. A living Lord must be obeyed. A dead teacher can be studied at a distance. A living Lord sees you, knows you, and calls you to change. And here is one of the ways we avoid this. We listen to the Church—but at a distance. We listen through podcasts, through videos, through discussions online. We hear sermons, teachings, arguments, explanations. And again, these things can be good. But notice what happens when this becomes our primary way of listening. We receive the words, but not the life. We hear, but we are not known. We learn, but we are not accountable. We can pause it, skip it, choose one voice over another, agree or disagree without consequence. In other words, we remain in control. But that is not how the living Christ teaches. The living Christ teaches through His Body—a Body that we must enter, a Body that sees us, a Body that corrects us, a Body that calls us to repentance, a Body that we cannot curate or control. You can learn about Christ anywhere, but you can only be taught by Him within His Body. To receive Christ only as content—even Orthodox content—is still, in a subtle way, to treat Him as if He were not fully alive. Because the Risen Christ does not simply inform us; He forms us. It is much easier to interpret what Christ said two thousand years ago—indeed, much easier to interpret what the Councils and Fathers said hundreds of years ago—than it is to hear what He is saying to you today. Because interpretation can be shaped by our pride, by our ego. Obedience cannot. So how do we learn from the living Christ? The answer is not new. We give our lives—our bodies, our minds, our souls—to Him and to His Church. We pray. We enter into the Liturgy. We love our neighbor. We learn from the Fathers. We seek counsel. We quiet ourselves so that we can hear—not because this is a system, but because this is where He is: ministering to us, teaching us, healing us, enlightening us. The Myrrhbearers came looking for the dead. Instead, they encountered the Living One. And that is the same invitation given to us. Do not come here to remember Christ. Do not come here to study Him from a distance. Do not come here as if nothing real is happening. Come here to meet Him. Because He is not in the tomb. He is not confined to history. Christ is risen. Indeed He is risen—and He is with us, here, now, and always.
Join us as Pastor Ben continues our sermon series on the book of Hebrews with a sermon entitled "How Are You Responding to God?" from Hebrews 12:25-29.
All the Episodes of the Heidelcast Subscribe to the Heidelcast! Browse the Heidelshop! On X @Heidelcast On Insta & Facebook @Heidelcast Subscribe in Apple Podcast Subscribe directly via RSS Call The Heidelphone via Voice Memo On Your Phone The Heidelcast is available wherever podcasts are found including Spotify. Call or text the Heidelphone anytime at (760) 618-1563. Leave a message or email us a voice memo from your phone and we may use it in a future podcast. Record it and email it to heidelcast@heidelblog.net. If you benefit from the Heidelcast please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts so that others can find it. Please do not forget to make the coffer clink (see the donate button below). 2026 den Dulk Lectures with Rev. Brian Vos: Thursday and Friday, April 23 and 24, 2026 Join Westminster Seminary California for their Annual den Dulk Lectures on Pastoral Ministry. This year, Rev. Brian Vos will be speaking on the topic of "You Have Need of Endurance." The lectures will be held on Thursday and Friday, April 23 and 24, 2026 in the WSC Chapel at 10 am on both days. This event is free and will be livestreamed. Endurance is the great need of the Christian life (Hebrews 10:36); it is also the great need of those called to shepherd God's sheep. The book of Hebrews provides both the reasons and resources needed to endure in pastoral ministry, as it calls us to look to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:2). Learn More SHOW NOTES How To Subscribe To Heidelmedia The Heidelblog Resource Page Heidelmedia Resources The Ecumenical Creeds The Reformed Confessions The Heidelberg Catechism The Heidelberg Catechism: A Historical, Theological, and Pastoral Commentary (Lexham Academic) Recovering the Reformed Confession (P&R Publishing, 2008) Why I Am A Christian What Must A Christian Believe? Heidelblog Contributors Support Heidelmedia: use the donate button or send a check to: Heidelberg Reformation Association 1637 E. Valley Parkway #391 Escondido CA 92027 USA The HRA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
Bill Heidel The Non-Pauline Epistles
Caleb Clardy teaches from Hebrews 1: 1-4 on April 12, 2026Support the show
All the Episodes of the Heidelcast Subscribe to the Heidelcast! Browse the Heidelshop! On X @Heidelcast On Insta & Facebook @Heidelcast Subscribe in Apple Podcast Subscribe directly via RSS Call The Heidelphone via Voice Memo On Your Phone The Heidelcast is available wherever podcasts are found including Spotify. Call or text the Heidelphone anytime at (760) 618-1563. Leave a message or email us a voice memo from your phone and we may use it in a future podcast. Record it and email it to heidelcast@heidelblog.net. If you benefit from the Heidelcast please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts so that others can find it. Please do not forget to make the coffer clink (see the donate button below). 2026 den Dulk Lectures with Rev. Brian Vos: Thursday and Friday, April 23 and 24, 2026 Join Westminster Seminary California for their Annual den Dulk Lectures on Pastoral Ministry. This year, Rev. Brian Vos will be speaking on the topic of "You Have Need of Endurance." The lectures will be held on Thursday and Friday, April 23 and 24, 2026 in the WSC Chapel at 10 am on both days. This event is free and will be livestreamed. Endurance is the great need of the Christian life (Hebrews 10:36); it is also the great need of those called to shepherd God's sheep. The book of Hebrews provides both the reasons and resources needed to endure in pastoral ministry, as it calls us to look to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:2). Learn More SHOW NOTES How To Subscribe To Heidelmedia The Heidelblog Resource Page Heidelmedia Resources The Ecumenical Creeds The Reformed Confessions The Heidelberg Catechism The Heidelberg Catechism: A Historical, Theological, and Pastoral Commentary (Lexham Academic) Recovering the Reformed Confession (P&R Publishing, 2008) Why I Am A Christian What Must A Christian Believe? Heidelblog Contributors Support Heidelmedia: use the donate button or send a check to: Heidelberg Reformation Association 1637 E. Valley Parkway #391 Escondido CA 92027 USA The HRA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
Abraham believed God's promise he left everything by faith, seeking a heavenly homeland whose designer and builder is God (Hebrews 11). In a world chasing empty utopias, his obedience gave us the Ten Commandments' justice, true liberty, and Jesus as the Builder. What voices are you listening to for a better life?Support the show
Dr Clark continues the series Have This Mind on the book of Philippians. This episode of the Heidelcast is sponsored by the Heidelberg Reformation Association. You love the Heidelcast and the Heidelblog. You share it with friends, with members of your church, and others but have you stopped to think what would happen if it all disappeared? The truth is that we depend on your support. If you don't make the coffer clink, the HRA will simply sink. Won't you help us keep it going? The HRA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All your gifts are tax deductible. Use the donate link on this page or mail a check to Heidelberg Reformation Association, 1637 E Valley Parkway #391, Escondido CA 92027. 2026 den Dulk Lectures with Rev. Brian Vos: Thursday and Friday, April 23 and 24, 2026 Join Westminster Seminary California for their Annual den Dulk Lectures on Pastoral Ministry. This year, Rev. Brian Vos will be speaking on the topic of "You Have Need of Endurance." The lectures will be held on Thursday and Friday, April 23 and 24, 2026 in the WSC Chapel at 10 am on both days. This event is free and will be livestreamed. Endurance is the great need of the Christian life (Hebrews 10:36); it is also the great need of those called to shepherd God's sheep. The book of Hebrews provides both the reasons and resources needed to endure in pastoral ministry, as it calls us to look to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:2). Learn More All the Episodes of the Heidelcast Subscribe to the Heidelcast! Browse the Heidelshop! On X @Heidelcast On Insta & Facebook @Heidelcast Subscribe in Apple Podcast Subscribe directly via RSS Call The Heidelphone via Voice Memo On Your Phone The Heidelcast is available wherever podcasts are found including Spotify. Call or text the Heidelphone anytime at (760) 618-1563. Leave a message or email us a voice memo from your phone and we may use it in a future podcast. Record it and email it to heidelcast@heidelblog.net. If you benefit from the Heidelcast please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts so that others can find it. Please do not forget to make the coffer clink (see the donate button below). SHOW NOTES How To Subscribe To Heidelmedia The Heidelblog Resource Page Heidelmedia Resources The Ecumenical Creeds The Reformed Confessions The Heidelberg Catechism The Heidelberg Catechism: A Historical, Theological, and Pastoral Commentary (Lexham Academic) Recovering the Reformed Confession (P&R Publishing, 2008) Why I Am A Christian What Must A Christian Believe? Heidelblog Contributors Support Heidelmedia: use the donate button or send a check to: Heidelberg Reformation Association 1637 E. Valley Parkway #391 Escondido CA 92027 USA The HRA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
All the Episodes of the Heidelcast Subscribe to the Heidelcast! Browse the Heidelshop! On X @Heidelcast On Insta & Facebook @Heidelcast Subscribe in Apple Podcast Subscribe directly via RSS Call The Heidelphone via Voice Memo On Your Phone The Heidelcast is available wherever podcasts are found including Spotify. Call or text the Heidelphone anytime at (760) 618-1563. Leave a message or email us a voice memo from your phone and we may use it in a future podcast. Record it and email it to heidelcast@heidelblog.net. If you benefit from the Heidelcast please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts so that others can find it. Please do not forget to make the coffer clink (see the donate button below). 2026 den Dulk Lectures with Rev. Brian Vos: Thursday and Friday, April 23 and 24, 2026 Join Westminster Seminary California for their Annual den Dulk Lectures on Pastoral Ministry. This year, Rev. Brian Vos will be speaking on the topic of "You Have Need of Endurance." The lectures will be held on Thursday and Friday, April 23 and 24, 2026 in the WSC Chapel at 10 am on both days. This event is free and will be livestreamed. Endurance is the great need of the Christian life (Hebrews 10:36); it is also the great need of those called to shepherd God's sheep. The book of Hebrews provides both the reasons and resources needed to endure in pastoral ministry, as it calls us to look to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:2). Learn More SHOW NOTES How To Subscribe To Heidelmedia The Heidelblog Resource Page Heidelmedia Resources The Ecumenical Creeds The Reformed Confessions The Heidelberg Catechism The Heidelberg Catechism: A Historical, Theological, and Pastoral Commentary (Lexham Academic) Recovering the Reformed Confession (P&R Publishing, 2008) Why I Am A Christian What Must A Christian Believe? Heidelblog Contributors Support Heidelmedia: use the donate button or send a check to: Heidelberg Reformation Association 1637 E. Valley Parkway #391 Escondido CA 92027 USA The HRA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization
Believers in Jesus Christ have won the lottery. The only difference is that our prize is far greater: we are declared right with God, all our debts are forgiven, and we are promised eternity in heaven. We could never earn or deserve any of these, a fact that was especially radical in Paul's day. There was a belief in Judaism that salvation came by obedience to God's Law, but Paul put forth that no one but Jesus could fulfill the Law. Paul then showed his Jewish brethren that their father Abraham was saved by faith before the Law was given (Gen. 15:6). Because God has credited us with a righteousness we have not earned and wiped out a debt we could not pay, the only proper response is for us to follow Jesus. We are called to “walk in the footsteps of the faith” like Abraham: “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:8-10).Take-Home Message: God credits righteousness to my account through faith.God credited to me a righteousness I did not earn (1–5).God forgave the debt I did earn (6–8).God calls me to follow in the footsteps of the faith (9–12).The footsteps of the faith is a well-worn trail.The footsteps of the faith are not walked alone.The footsteps of the faith include the cross but end in glory.
The Word of God exposes us in our efforts to justify ourselves, but we can find rest in the person of Jesus.
Is life meaningless without affirmation? What does it mean to find "mercy and grace" from God (Hebrews 4)? My wife is leaving me, but we might get back together later. What are your thoughts? Tell us about that paper you wrote in college about God the Father. What happened when you read it in front of the class?
There is much to be learned from Rahab of Jericho. She had remarkable faith in the Lord of heaven and earth, risking her life to protect the spies that Joshua sent, and thus playing a vital part in God's great story. Bp. Neil Lebhar | March 15th, 2026 ______________________________________ We're Incarnation Tallahassee! Visit our website! www.incarnationtlh.org/ Watch the Livestream www.youtube.com/live/BdU3FrUMGpA
Peter Leithart, James Bejon and Alastair Roberts discuss Hebrews 13:1-7. GIVE TO THEOPOLIS! theopolisinstitute.com/give/ Get the Theopolis App! app.theopolisinstitute.com/menu Use Code "theopolitan" to get your first month free! Sign up for In Medias Res mailchi.mp/0b01d726f2fe/inmediasres
The Blood of Christ and the Courtroom of Heaven – Part 1 | KIB 520 Kingdom Intelligence Briefing Description In KIB Episode 520, Dr. Michael and Mary Lou Lake address the spiritual intensity surrounding this season (Purim, "blood moon," and heightened occult activity) and then go deep into a foundational subject the remnant must understand: the power of the Blood of Jesus. This is not superstition. It's not a chant. It's not a ritual. The Blood of Jesus is covenant reality—a legal transaction that secures redemption, silences accusation, and anchors spiritual warfare in heaven's courtroom. In this episode: Why the enemy pushes believers toward formula-based "churchianity" Passover blood: covenant protection before judgment falls (Exodus 12) "The life is in the blood" and substitutionary atonement (Leviticus 17:11) The Blood of Jesus: eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:12) Why the Blood "speaks better things than Abel" (Hebrews 12:24) How victory works in warfare: Blood + testimony + covenant fidelity (Revelation 12:11) Why spiritual maturity requires depth in the basics
Why does life feel heavier as a society becomes more “advanced”? The Bible answers with startling clarity. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef opens Genesis 11:1–9 and the Tower of Babel—where humanity tried to build a future without God, chasing self-glory instead of surrender. That ancient defiance isn't just history; it mirrors what we see across the modern West: a culture bowing to materialism, moral relativism, and political correctness—then reaping confusion, anxiety, and loneliness. But God didn't leave humanity without a light. Dr. Youssef points to Abraham, a man living in the “City of Man” while longing for the City of God—“a city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:10). Abraham's faith didn't ignore darkness; it overcame it. And God's promise to Abraham didn't end with him—through his line came Jesus Christ, the Savior who purchased our eternal home by His blood (Genesis 12:3). If you're weary from the headlines or discouraged by cultural decline, this devotional will help you lift your eyes and live with steady hope—setting your mind where Christ is and where history is headed. Scripture Focus: Genesis 11:1–9Go deeper: Dr. Youssef's sermon series Unholy Alliance of the Antichrist (Watch Now | Listen Now) The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.
Responding To The Minnesota Surge Leads To A Pastor's Arrest! Curtis Chang sits down with Rev. Mariah Tollgaard for an on-the-ground look at ICE raids and immigration enforcement in Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota. They break down masked agents, rapid detentions, and MSP Airport deportation flights—plus the church-led pushback through mutual aid, constitutional observer trainings, and clergy protests that led to Reverend Tollgaard's arrest. It's a faith-and-civil-rights wake-up call: what neighbor-love demands when ICE shows up in your city, and why accountability matters. 03:11 - Setting the Scene: ICE Occupation in Minnesota 08:19 - How Are Churches and the Community Responding? 00:10:24 - Faith-Based Activism, Public Witness, and Arrests of Faith Leaders 15:46 - Theological Reflection on Resistance 17:55 - Biblical Basis for Protest 24:25 - Minnesota's Unique Response and Context 29:52 - Corporate Complicity and Airport Protests 34:02 - Spiritual Courage Rooted In History 36:36 - A Call to National Solidarity 38:48 - Closing Prayer Sign up for the Good Faith Newsletter Learn more about George Fox Talks Mentioned In This Episode: How to Contact Your Elected Officials: Ballotpedia's Who Represents Me tool Matthew 22:34-40 (ESV) - The Second Greatest Commandment Ephesians 6:10–19 (ESV) - The Whole Armour of God Hebrews 12:1-17 (ESV) - The Great Cloud of Witnesses Nearly 30,000 Minnesotans trained as constitutional observers In The Twin Cities, A Massive Strike Against ICE Ernst Frenkel's The Dual State: A Contribution To The Theory Of Dictatorship (pdf) David French: An Old Theory Helps Explain What Happened to Renee Good Good Faith episode 215: David French: Dual State America and Authoritarianism - Renee Good and the Trump Administration Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.