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John 19:31 “Then the Jews, because it was the day of preparation, so that the bodies would not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away.” Did those Jews have no shame? They had no problem with unjustly trying and condemning Jesus, but wanted to be sure they observed the law in Deut. 21:23 not to leave a dead body unburied. They swallowed the proverbial camel and strained the gnat! Had it not been a “high day” Sabbath, both the first day of Passover and the normal Sabbath, they would have had no problem leaving His body on the cross to putrify and be eaten by the buzzards, as the Romans usually did. Let's pause, think about this hypocrisy, and examine ourselves before we are incensed at their lack of shame and hateful cruelty. At the heart of the matter was a lack of fear of God and a desire for approval from men. Jesus had said of them, “How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that is from the one and only God” (John 5:44)? Have we ever thoughtlessly spoken ill of someone with whom we disagreed so that their reputation might be destroyed and our reputation enhanced in the eyes of our followers or friends? I'm ashamed to say that I have been guilty of the same hypocrisy. Today, let me encourage us to purify our souls from the shameful desire for glory from men, so we can sincerely and fervently love others God puts in our paths today, for His glory. If we don't, we allow the same shameful, hypocritical attitude in our souls that would murder a man and then seek to gain more followers on social media for doing so. The reason it is important to live to love with Jesus is that such a purpose in life will protect us from doing what the Jews did. We live to love with Jesus because we seek glory from the one and only God. That's why Jesus loved us—to glorify the Father and to be glorified by the Father. Acknowledgment: Music from “Carried by the Father” by Eric Terlizzi. www.ericterlizzi.com 0 Comments
John 1:12-13 | God's children are born of God through faith in Jesus.Believe and Live: An Exposition of the Gospel of John | Jeremy Hudson
This term, we're thinking about bearing Fruit in the Spirit - but before we get there, we're considering the 'Roots' of the Christian faith - exploring the Glory of the Father, Union with the Son, Life in the Spirit and Community in the Church. This week, Pastor John Perry helps us to consider the Unity amongst believers which flows from our unity with God (John 17)
Apologetics, Debate, Bible Discussions, Evangelism, and much more "Christianity is a Person, not a system" - https://youtu.be/1-02nnh5Das?si=8-p2u1cxfCS2Uo4I Discerning the fruits of the Spirit vs the fruits of self - Mark 7:5-23 "The mystic fruit bowl" - https://youtu.be/kw7QiLQMQ_M?si=356Fx_r9ohUeTLwjThe Deity of Jesus Christ and the Gospel of Salvation - https://www.youtube.com/live/gquqBQIL_0U?si=7zmPLi1X0CcW-v7f(Discussing discipleship) Bible study on Luke 9:60-62 "Let the dead bury the dead" - https://www.youtube.com/live/BkWtkOrEs-Q?si=y-zyqNGfWi3kzVu2To know more on how to be saved, what are the requirements and such, please see our playlist on the Gospel and Eternal Security (assurance of salvation) - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3pJdCnnwrEeCQOCTTmDW1GjUYxpd44DG&si=_rT-lThl0klHt5Cd Our Ministries Website - https://christiancoffeetime.ca/ 1John 5:20) "And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life."
Justin Paul-Lawrence, Executive Director of Operations
Good Questions Week 2 | Hearing God often comes from knowing Jesus so deeply through Scripture, prayer, and community that we learn to recognize his voice and work in our everyday lives and let his character shape our decisions.
The Portage church of Christ is a group of pre-denominational Christians that are striving to serve the Lord together. Our goal is to please God, and we believe that the best way to do that is to follow the pattern that was established by the churches in the first century and revealed in the New Testament. We have no creed or doctrine except the Bible and we follow the Bible only. We strive for unity in the teaching of New Testament doctrine. Our congregation is not part of, or subject to, any larger man-made religious organization. We are a completely autonomous congregation. We are locally governed, just as the church in the first century was. How does one becomes a member of this church congregation? The exact same way as seen in the Biblical accounts. On the day of Pentecost following Jesus' resurrection, people who repented and were baptized were saved (Acts 2:38) and the saved were added to the church (Acts 2:47). These saved people were members of the body, or church (Colossians 1:18). To become a Christian, the Bible teaches: Hear the gospel (Rom. 10:17) Believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God (John 8:24, 58, Heb. 11:6) Repent of past sins (Luke 13:3, 5) Confess Jesus as Lord (Matt. 10:32-33, Rom. 10:9-10) Be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38, Mark 16:16) Remain Faithful to Christ (Rev. 2:10, 2 Tim 4:7-8)
Jesus Lamb of God - John 1: 29 - 34 - Chris Whittaker (7pm) by Christ Church Winchester
The Portage church of Christ is a group of pre-denominational Christians that are striving to serve the Lord together. Our goal is to please God, and we believe that the best way to do that is to follow the pattern that was established by the churches in the first century and revealed in the New Testament. We have no creed or doctrine except the Bible and we follow the Bible only. We strive for unity in the teaching of New Testament doctrine. Our congregation is not part of, or subject to, any larger man-made religious organization. We are a completely autonomous congregation. We are locally governed, just as the church in the first century was. How does one becomes a member of this church congregation? The exact same way as seen in the Biblical accounts. On the day of Pentecost following Jesus' resurrection, people who repented and were baptized were saved (Acts 2:38) and the saved were added to the church (Acts 2:47). These saved people were members of the body, or church (Colossians 1:18). To become a Christian, the Bible teaches: Hear the gospel (Rom. 10:17) Believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God (John 8:24, 58, Heb. 11:6) Repent of past sins (Luke 13:3, 5) Confess Jesus as Lord (Matt. 10:32-33, Rom. 10:9-10) Be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38, Mark 16:16) Remain Faithful to Christ (Rev. 2:10, 2 Tim 4:7-8)
In the gospels, Jesus often speaks of a plan and arrangement between the Father, Son, and Spirit for the salvation of God's people. Theologians have called this the "covenant of redemption." What does this show us about the source of our salvation and how does it lead us to confidence?
Read OnlineExalting the Crucified MessiahJesus said to Nicodemus: “No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” John 3:13–15Today, as we celebrate the great Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, we are invited to ponder Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, “a ruler of the Jews” (John 3:1). Nicodemus was one of the few Pharisees who believed in Jesus. In many Eastern Churches, he is honored as a saint.Nicodemus approached Jesus early in His public ministry. By that time, Jesus had called some of His Apostles, performed His first sign at the wedding in Cana, and traveled to Jerusalem for Passover, where He cleansed the Temple, declaring, “Take these out of here, and stop making my Father's house a marketplace” (John 2:16). This was the first major public confrontation between Jesus and the religious leaders, many of whom were scandalized. Nicodemus, however, was moved by grace and came to Jesus secretly by night, saying, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God…” (John 3:2). Today's Gospel is drawn from that quiet exchange.As their conversation unfolds, Jesus turns Nicodemus' attention to a mysterious episode from Israel's history, one Nicodemus would have known well. When the Israelites sinned by speaking against God and Moses, the Lord sent serpents among them. Many of the people died. But when the people repented, God instructed Moses to mount a bronze serpent on a pole; those who looked upon it in faith were healed. Jesus reveals that this ancient sign prefigured something far greater: “Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up.”This “lifting up” lies at the heart of today's feast. The Exaltation of the Holy Cross is more than a remembrance of Christ's suffering, it is a celebration of His victory. The Cross, once an instrument of Roman execution, has become the Tree of Life. Through His self-offering, Jesus conquered sin and death, transforming a curse into a blessing.Return to Nicodemus. Having witnessed the miracle at Cana, the cleansing of the Temple, and Jesus' powerful teaching, he was clearly stirred, yet still fearful, which is why he came at night. Imagine him hearing Jesus refer to Moses and the bronze serpent, and then saying, “So must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.”The title “Son of Man” comes from the Book of Daniel (7:13–14), in which the prophet sees the “one like a son of man” coming on the clouds of heaven to receive everlasting dominion. Jesus used this title frequently to describe Himself, linking His earthly mission with divine authority.In His encounter with Nicodemus, Jesus veils the deeper meaning. His being “lifted up” refers not to earthly power, but to His Crucifixion. Nicodemus likely didn't grasp this at the time. He may have assumed Jesus was foretelling a messianic rise to political rule, overthrowing Roman oppression. Only after the Crucifixion and Resurrection would Nicodemus—and the other disciples—begin to understand the true nature of this first revelation that the lifting up of the Son of Man was the lifting of the Cross, the source of healing, life, and eternal glory.Today, we are invited to exalt Christ's Cross in our own souls. The paradox of the Cross—that such brutal torture and death brings life—is our glory. Because of Jesus' Cross and the saving power that flowed from it, every suffering we endure, every cross we carry, and every injustice we suffer has the potential to share in the Exultation of the Holy Cross if we allow ourselves to be lifted up with Him, in confidence and rejoicing. Reflect today on the mystery Jesus first revealed in secret. Through His exaltation on the Cross, He brings salvation to all who believe, also enabling our crosses to share in His triumph. Gaze upon the Cross with faith. What once symbolized death has become our hope, our healing, and our path to eternal life.Most highly exalted Lord, though You spoke in veiled language when revealing Your “lifting up” to Nicodemus, You later spoke clearly as You offered Your life on the Cross for the salvation of the world. I pray that You and Your perfect Sacrifice may always be exalted in my heart—first through gratitude and praise, and then through imitation. Lift me up in every cross I carry, so that You may continue to be exalted through my life for the world to see.Image: The Finding of the Holy Cross, by Nicola Maria RossiSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission. Jesus, I trust in You.
"Behold the Lamb of God" – John 1:29-34 *Mt. 3:13-17 I. Jesus' baptism II. Behold the Lamb of God (Is. 53:3-7; 1 Pet. 1:17-19) III. The Lamb who takes away the sin of the world (2 Sam. 12:13; Is. 6:5-7; Ps. 32:1-2; Heb. 9:24-26; 1 Jn. 2:1-2; Rom. 5:18; 1 Cor. 13:7; Phil. 4:13) IV. Application (Mt. 11:28-30; Jn. 7:37-38)
Pastor Jerrill Wyler | John Series (AM)
Weekly live worship service from Cornerstone Church, North Gower (Ontario) FOLLOW US #northgowercornerstone WEBSITE https://www.knowgrowshow.ca/ INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/northgowercornerstone/ FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/northgowercornerstone/ LINKTREE https://linktr.ee/knowgrowshow The Passage: John 17:13-17 The One Thing: Unity With Christ Is Submission To HIs Lordship Growgroup Discussion Starters Unity with Christ is Submission to his Lordship Know K1. In John 17:13–17, what does Jesus say about his disciples' relationship to him, the world, God's Word, and the evil one? How are these connected? How does understanding Jesus as the Word of God (John 1:1, 14) deepen “I have given them your word”? Grow G1. Why can following Jesus, the Word of God, put us at odds with the world's values? Where do you see this tension? G2. Why does Jesus pray for protection from the evil one rather than removal from the world (John 17:15)? What does this show about his followers' purpose? How does union with Jesus shape life in the world? G3. What does submitting to Jesus' Lordship look like in everyday life? Which areas are easiest or hardest to surrender? How does knowing Jesus is the Word of God affect our obedience? G4. How does Scripture help us know Jesus and become more like him? When has God's truth changed your thinking, attitudes, or actions? G5. How does Jesus' desire for his disciples to have “the full measure of his joy” challenge the idea that submission is mainly about rules or sacrifice? What difference does it make that Jesus, the Word who reveals God's heart, calls us to submit? Show S1 How can submitting to Jesus' Lordship help you remain united with him and experience his joy this week? Choose one specific act of obedience or love to practice, and decide when and where you will do it.
Get your copy of our 2026 Annual Read: Tozer on the Son of God by A.W. Tozer.First Time?Start Here: https://bit.ly/MarinersconnectcardCan we pray for you? https://bit.ly/MarinersPrayerOnlineYou can find information for all our Mariners congregations, watch more videos, and learn more about us and our ministries on our website https://bit.ly/MarinersChurchSite.FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marinerschurch• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marinerschurch• Twitter: https://twitter.com/marinerschurch• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marinerschurchSupport the ministry and help us reach people worldwide: https://bit.ly/MarinersGive
Bestselling author, speaker, and co-founder of Messenger International, John Bevere has spent decades calling believers to deeper intimacy with God through reverence and obedience. In this episode, John unpacks what it means to have a healthy fear of God—not a fear that drives us away, but one that draws us closer in awe, respect, and devotion. Listen in as he explains why a proper understanding of this biblical concept is crucial for a thriving faith and how it unlocks deeper wisdom, boldness, and blessing in our lives. Resources: Sign up for THINQ Summit 2026 October 1-3 in Nashville, TN. Host a THINQ Dinner—Learn More & Sign Up Learn more about John Bevere and his work. Check out John's books, including The Awe of God. Watch A Healthy Fear of God video by John Bevere on THINQmedia.com. Take the THINQ Assessment to help you understand how you naturally think, learn, and grow in your faith. Bring THINQ talks and conversations into your local community with THINQ Local. Subscribe to THINQ News & Data to receive news stories every Thursday delivered directly to your inbox. Create a free THINQ Account and download the THINQ Media app on your smart TV to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Apply the THINQ Framework as you think through cultural topics. Host a THINQ Let's Talk conversation series in your home: Let's Talk Tech Detox Let's Talk Relationships Let's Talk Civility Let's Talk Mental Health Let's Talk Politics More from the THINQ Podcast Network: Rhythms for Life with Rebekah & Gabe Lyons The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NextUp with Grant Skeldon NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons Now on YouTube! Subscribe, Like, and Share: THINQ Media UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons NextUp with Grant Skeldon Rhythms for Life with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips
The Portage church of Christ is a group of pre-denominational Christians that are striving to serve the Lord together. Our goal is to please God, and we believe that the best way to do that is to follow the pattern that was established by the churches in the first century and revealed in the New Testament. We have no creed or doctrine except the Bible and we follow the Bible only. We strive for unity in the teaching of New Testament doctrine. Our congregation is not part of, or subject to, any larger man-made religious organization. We are a completely autonomous congregation. We are locally governed, just as the church in the first century was. How does one becomes a member of this church congregation? The exact same way as seen in the Biblical accounts. On the day of Pentecost following Jesus' resurrection, people who repented and were baptized were saved (Acts 2:38) and the saved were added to the church (Acts 2:47). These saved people were members of the body, or church (Colossians 1:18). To become a Christian, the Bible teaches: Hear the gospel (Rom. 10:17) Believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God (John 8:24, 58, Heb. 11:6) Repent of past sins (Luke 13:3, 5) Confess Jesus as Lord (Matt. 10:32-33, Rom. 10:9-10) Be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38, Mark 16:16) Remain Faithful to Christ (Rev. 2:10, 2 Tim 4:7-8)
This week's talk is an exhortation by Brother Dave Jennings titled "The Unknows or Unlikelies Chosen by God", given at the Verdugo Hills Ecclesia in California, USA, on April 12th, 2026.We hope this strengthens your Faith and brightens your day!Thank you for listening, God bless, and talk to you next week.Send talk suggestions or comments to: GoodChristadelphianTalks@gmail.comFor Show Notes, visit our website: GoodChristadelphianTalks.comSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram
We are blessed to have several men capable of serving in many different ways, and it is always a blessing to hear one of them share a message from God’s word. Today our brother shares with us a lesson about the love of God, namely its generosity, it’s impartiality, and its immortality. Speaker: Fredelin Hicher
What if the reason you feel far from God is a step you already know you need to take?In this message, How Do I Get Closer To God?, Pastor John Huseman answers the question so many people are quietly asking. Drawing from Romans 5:8, John 10:27, Ephesians 6:1–3, Luke 16:12, and John 14:21, this sermon makes the case that obedience isn't a burden, it's the doorway. And it comes with a promise.Whether you've been coming to church for years and want more, you're brand new and don't know where to start, or you've been avoiding something God asked you to do a long time ago, this message will remind you that you don't have to go from step one to step 100. You just have to take the next one.
DATE: 08/30/26 SPEAKER: Pastor Nathan Phillips TEXT: John 5:30-47 SERMON NOTES: Their Witness Our Hearts His Story https://www.evergreentn.com/
Flashback Episode: Year in John – Episode 35: As Jesus shares with the disciples on the night He was betrayed and arrested, discover a powerful promise Jesus shared that reframes our relationship with God. Join the discussion on the original episode's page: Click Here.Listen to this episode and/or subscribe on ReflectiveBibleStudy.com...
Our worship this Sunday was centered on Jesus' divine nature as the Son of God. In John 10:30, Jesus said “I and the Father are one.” He is one with and sent by the Father and therefore he assures us that we are his forever (John 10:27-29) because his works are the works of God (John 10:32-38).
Come to God | John 14:6 | 30 August 2026 - Sunday Morning | Dr. Brad Weniger, Pastor
Featured playlist: The Church (That Meets in My Home) — https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5Yobt1jZDd9Zzn8Ufa-BNciyYv04Cl6mMy books:Exalted: Putting Jesus in His Place — https://www.amazon.com/Exalted-Putting-Jesus-His-Place/dp/0985118709/ref=tmm_pap_title_0God's Design for Marriage (Married Edition) — https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Design-Marriage-Married-Amazing/dp/0998786306/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1493422125&sr=1-4&keywords=god%27s+design+for+marriageGod's Design for Marriage (Pre-married Edition) — https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Design-Marriage-What-Before/dp/0985118725/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_topSupport us - become a CTC Partner: https://crosstocrown.org/partners/crosstocrown.org@DougGoodin
The Staff of God | John Lawler | Exodus 17.1-16 by Christ Church Presbyterian
Flashback Episode: Year in John – Episode 33: Near the end of the special meal Jesus shares with His disciples on the night He was betrayed and arrested, He tells the disciples that He is leaving them and one other thing. While all the focus in the room went to the detail about Jesus leaving, the two verses that get ignored are among the most powerful verses in the Bible, and together, they give us a picture of God’s love for each of us! Join the discussion on the original episode's page: Click Here.Listen to this episode and/or subscribe on ReflectiveBibleStudy.com...
How can you experience the fullness of God? In this message from Pastor John Lindell, experience how the Holy Spirit's power, Christ's presence, and a deeper understanding of His love can lead you into the fullness of God. Our prayer is that you would live daily with a greater awareness of God's presence, respond to His prompting, and allow His power to work through every area of your life.
How can you experience the fullness of God? In this message from Pastor John Lindell, experience how the Holy Spirit's power, Christ's presence, and a deeper understanding of His love can lead you into the fullness of God. Our prayer is that you would live daily with a greater awareness of God's presence, respond to His prompting, and allow His power to work through every area of your life.
In Good Hands (Back to School with God) - John 6:1-15; Jessica Beecroft, Sunday 9th August 2026
A profound and revelatory teaching on what it truly means to be a disciple of Christ.Knowledge is Life: The Kingdom of God is where knowledge takes us far. "My people perish for lack of knowledge" (Hosea 4:6) what distinguishes the poor from the rich is what they know.Understanding Life & Death: Death is a process it begins before the spirit leaves the body. We come from the spiritual world and are transitioning back to it. How much you know determines how quickly you reach the Father.Identity Shapes Learning: Your identity determines your attitude toward learning. Your name has influence over your life what you are named after will manifest. Abram became Abraham ("father of many nations") before he had a son; Jacob the deceiver became Israel ("one who wrestled with God and prevailed"). The changing of the name activated the blessing.What is a Disciple? The word "disciple" comes from the Greek Mathetes meaning learner, pupil, student. The disciples were first called "Christians" in Antioch (Acts 11:26) but Jesus called them to be learners of the Anointed One.Scriptures vs. The Word: We must distinguish the Scriptures from the Word of God (John 5:39-40). The Word became flesh (John 1:14) and it is our responsibility to turn the Word into flesh in our own lives.The Holy Spirit is Our Teacher: After the Messiah came, He left another Teacher the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 30:20).
Just when you think little kids are pretty much all about their toys, TV, and what's to eat, they amaze you again. Our daughter had one of those times when our grandson was puttering around the house in his jammies one early morning, and he wandered over to an East window. He stared out at the brightening early morning sky for a few moments and then he suddenly launched a question Mommy's way, “Mommy, who painted the sky?” Before his mother could answer, our grandson answered his own question, “Jesus did.” I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about “Beyond Creation to the Source.” That little guy saw something in the beauty of creation that morning that many grownup people tragically miss: that there's someone behind the beauty, and He is the point of it all! I mean, a two-year-old seemed to understand, in his own way, what many of us miss if we just admire the painting. The point is to know the Painter! If you consider yourself a spiritual seeker, it's important to realize that God has, throughout your life and even now, been putting life experiences and life scenery in front of you for one reason. To get your attention, so you would give yourself to the One who does such awesome things. But so far, maybe you've missed Him. In our word for today from the Word of God in Romans 1, beginning with verse 19, God says of us: “What may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world, God's invisible qualities - His eternal power and divine nature - have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” God says here, “After all the ways I've displayed My greatness and My power to you, you have no excuse for not having a personal relationship with Me.” He then spells out the tragic mistake that so many of us have made without ever realizing it: “They exchanged the glory of the immortal God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator.” We've gotten hung up on what He made for us and missed Him. You've had a number of God-sightings in your life, even if you don't realize it or acknowledge it. You got a glimpse of His power and love in the birth of a baby, in a time your life was spared, in encountering the amazing engineering of the human body, in the majesty of the ocean that you felt, the mountains, the skies, or some scenic rush you felt. You brushed close to your Creator when you were thinking about death and that it's inevitable; when you looked at the way a follower of Jesus lived or died, or in the question or insight of a little child. Over and over, your Creator has been trying to get your attention, trying to direct you to the one way you can have a love relationship with Him that you were made for. The Bible says, “Christ died for sins…to bring you to God” (1 Peter 3:18). The ultimate reach of God for you was the sending of His one and only Son to love you enough to die for the sin that has been the wall between you and Him. You may say, “Well, I believe in God.” The Bible says, “Even the demons believe (in God) and shudder” (James 2:19). No, the issue isn't believing in God - it's belonging to God. He's the belonging you've been looking for your whole life. Here's how it begins according to the Bible: “To all who received (Jesus)…He gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12). Imagine, born into God's family, loved and protected by Him forever. That's the possibility God's putting in front of you today. Your personal love relationship with Him begins when you tell Jesus that you're putting your total trust in Him to forgive your sin and to get you to Heaven when you die. He's the only one with the power to walk out of His grave and He can deliver eternal life to your soul. Tell Him today, "Jesus, I'm Yours.” I think our website might help you to that point. Would you go there today? It's called ANewStory.com. This painter of all that's beautiful and awe-inspiring can make a masterpiece out of the rest of your life.
July 30, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: The Sacrament of Holy Baptism- Third PartDaily Lectionary: 1 Samuel 15:10-35; Acts 24:24-25:12“How can water do such great things? Certainly not just water, but the Word of God in and with the water does these things, along with the faith which trusts this Word of God in the water. For without God's Word the water is plain water and no Baptism. But with the Word of God it is a Baptism, that is, a life-giving water, rich in grace, and a washing of the new birth in the Holy Spirit, as St. Paul says in Titus, chapter 3: ‘He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying” (Titus 3:5-8, quoted in the Catechism: Holy Baptism- Third Part)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Water alone gets you wet. It has no power to save. In this, Lutherans agree with other Protestants. They say that simple water can't make you God's child, or give the Holy Spirit, or forgive, or establish you in a new, godly life. To that, Lutherans say, “You're right. Simple water can't do that.”But Baptism is more than just simple water, just as God's Word added with the water is more than just a simple word. God's Word does things. God's Word works. The washing of water with the Word gives us a new birth as God's children, a renewal of life that had been corrupted by sin, and it is a means of salvation.Why is it that simply speaking words over this water actually connects the Word to the water? You can read Holy Scripture over many other things - textbooks, your locker, your game system, and the Word is not joined to those things. But we say God's Word is joined to the water of Baptism. Why is this? Remember, Jesus is also called “the Word of God” (John 1:1). As “the Word of God,” Jesus stood in the water at His own baptism. There, God called Jesus His beloved Son. The Holy Spirit was given to Him. And Jesus took His place among sinful men, that He might redeem sinful men. Because the Word of God - Jesus - was joined to that water then, so this same Word of God, Jesus, is also joined to the water of Baptism now. The Baptismal words of God also bring along the Incarnate Word of God, Jesus, who joins the two together. And there, God reveals Himself as your Father, Christ as your brother, the Holy Spirit as your treasure.Thus, the water of Baptism is more than just simple water. As the Catechism says, it is indeed “a life-giving water, rich in grace.”In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Miracle each time it happens As the door to heaven opens And the Father beams, ‘Beloved, Heir of gifts a king would covet! (LSB 593:2)Rev. Robert Mayes, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and Zion St. John Lutheran Church, Beemer and Wisner, NE.
In this episode, Church Planter Caleb Carter finishes out our summer in the Heart of God Series with the book of John. Look forward to next summer as we continue the Heart of God then, but next week we are diving into a month in the Psalms
Practical steps to hosting the presence of God John 14:23 Do you have a hospitable home for God? What rooms does he have access to in the mansion of your heart?
This is one of the most difficult passages of Scripture. The first hearers were confused and many stopped following. We will tackle the teaching about eating His Flesh and drinking His blood head-on in this message. Flesh & Blood Todd Jaussen Download Sermons Archive RSS John 20:30-31 And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. 1 John 4:2-3 By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.2 John 7 For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Hebrews 10:19-20 Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, Commenting on vs. 56 …“The eating and the drinking has to do with shared life, mutual indwelling. In the physical realm one of the most powerful examples of shared life is eating and drinking- the laying down of life by a plant of animal and the interpenetration of life as molecules are transferred, thereby nourishing life. So once again Jesus' mystifying words are referring to something that could not be understood until after His death, resurrection and ascension and the coming of the Spirit. His death will be the ultimate laying down of life; His resurrection, ascension and sending of the Spirit bring onto the human scene the new possibility of actually sharing in the life of God (John 17:21-23) as He, the incarnate one, has shared in our life.” Rodney Whitacre, The Book of John. “The "eating and drinking," without which there is no life in us, means that reception of Christ's sacrifice which takes place when a man believes on Christ crucified for salvation. It is an inward and spiritual act of the heart, and has nothing to do with the body. Whenever a man, feeling his own guilt and sinfulness, lays hold on Christ, and trusts in the atonement made for him by Christ's death, at once he "eats the flesh of the Son of man, and drinks His blood." His soul feeds on Christ's sacrifice, by faith, just as his body would feed on bread. Believing, he is said to "eat." Believing, he is said to "drink." And the special thing that he eats, and drinks, and gets benefit from, is the atonement made for his sins by Christ's death for him on Calvary.” J C Ryle Sermon Discussion Questions:What is a metaphor and how is Jesus' teaching here "metaphorical"? What does He NOT mean by this use of language (hint: literalistic, cabalistic, ritualistic)? What DOES He mean: (hint: what is He saying about the atonement, believing, union)? Have you believed upon Jesus in a way that can only be described as eating and drinking?
Sermon Handout Sermon Slides John 17:1–5
What does it mean to abide in God when your quiet time feels empty and your spiritual life feels flat?You've been showing up — reading your Bible, praying, doing all the things — and something still feels off. This episode is about what's actually happening when that occurs. Not what you're doing wrong. What's actually going on. We go deep into John 15 to unpack what Jesus actually meant when he said remain in me — why the fruit that grows from genuine abiding was never meant to just feed you, and what it looks like to stay when everything in you wants to fix the flatness or conclude that God is gone.Abiding is not a feeling you achieve. It's a posture you return to.In This Episode•Why doing all the right spiritual things can still leave you feeling completely disconnected•What John 15 actually says about dependence, pruning, joy, and friendship with God•Why reading God's word alone doesn't produce transformation — and what has to be added•How the fruit of abiding flows outward and feeds others not just yourself•Why hormonal shifts can affect your spiritual life in ways nobody warned you aboutKey Takeaways•Chase the feeling and you end up performing. Stay in the posture and the fruit takes care of itself•The Word has to abide in you — not just pass through you•Grace positions you in the vine. Faith keeps you there. The fruit grows as the overflow of both•The flatness in your quiet time might be the Father pruning — not evidence that something is wrong•The fruit you bear isn't yours. It's Christ's life flowing through a branch that stayed connectedSeries NoteEpisode two of the Simply Remain series. Start with episode 156 or jump in here — either works.ResourcesSong: Abide by Dwell MusicThe True Vine by Andrew MurrayKeywords•How to abide in God•Spiritual disciplines and faith•Feeling disconnected from God•John 15 abiding in Christ•Perimenopause and spiritual life•Andrew Murray abiding in ChristIf you want to take this work and apply it, visit myhappyvault.com. That's where I share free resources and ways to stay connected.Discover ways to work with me at www.thehappiestlives.com or www.myhappyvault.comQuestions? Email Jill directly at Jill@thehappiestlives.com
God's Eternal Judgment starts after death and it's vital we are ready for it. He will judge us all individually & seal our eternal destiny, based on our response to Him in this life. We go through 3 Phases of Existence. *(1) THIS LIFE, where our inner man lives in a mortal body - a temporary state, for when we die our spirit leaves our body. *(2) The INTERMEDIATE STATE, when we continue to exist as a disembodied spirit. This is also temporary, ending with our resurrection. *(3) The ETERNAL STATE starts at our resurrection, when our spirit puts on an immortal body. All men are ultimately divided into 2 groups, with 2 opposite eternal destinies, either everlasting glory in God's Presence, or everlasting separation from God in Hell. This is decided at death, when a permanent separation between the saved & unsaved takes place –Stage 1 of man's Eternal Judgment. The condition of each soul at death determines its destiny for eternity (Ecc 11:3). Only in this life do you have the chance to get right with God. After you die, your eternity is fixed forever (Rev 22:11). A man either dies under condemnation or in grace. Man is born in a state of sin & guilt before God (John 3:17-18, Eph 2:1-3). Jesus is our only hope of salvation (Acts 4:12). We have a choice to accept or reject Christ & His salvation. Those in Christ will be with Him forever in Heaven. But those who reject Him will die in their sins & be lost forever in Hell (John 8:24). So, Stage 1 of man's Eternal Judgment happens right after death (Heb 9:27). When his spirit leaves his body, he faces a private judicial sentencing from God. If he dies in his sins, (1) he is found guilty and sent to a place of punishment in Hades. Then later, at his resurrection, (2) he'll stand before God a 2nd time for final sentencing at the Great White Throne & dismissal into the Lake of Fire, the degree of his punishment determined by the degree of his rebellion (Rev 20:11-15). But, Christ made another eternal destiny possible. Those who trust in Him don't face damnation when they die, for Jesus took it for us. They'll be found to be righteous in Him & go to Heaven. So, at death, God sends a man to one of 2 locations - a place of punishment or a place of blessing (Paradise). At this point his eternal destiny is fixed. When God reunites man's spirit with his body in the resurrection, we'll stand before God for the 2nd & final stage of Eternal Judgment, when we'll be released into our final Eternal State, either in glory or in the Lake of Fire. He who dies in his sins will be sent to a place of initial punishment in Hades, to await his resurrection to his final Eternal Judgment. But he who dies in the Lord has passed from death to life (John 5:24-25, Rom 8:1). So, when we die, we'll be released to go to Paradise to await our resurrection, when we'll stand before Christ's Judgment Seat, to receive our eternal rewards and be released into our eternal state, with a corresponding measure of glory. God's Eternal Judgment operates like our court-system: in 2 Stages. Stage 1 at death determines guilt or innocence. At death, God separates mankind into 2 groups. Saved spirits go to Paradise, but the wicked go down to a place of punishment in Hades, a holding cell, where they're kept until their final judgment. Then Stage 2 after his resurrection, decides his sentencing (degree of punishment or reward), based on his works. (1) The righteous will stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ to be judged to determine the degree of their eternal rewards of glory, according to their works, and then be released into their eternal state of glory. (2) When the unsaved are resurrected at the end of time, they'll stand before the Great White Throne for final sentencing & dismissal into their eternal state & place of punishment, the Lake of Fire (Rev 20). They'll be judged according to their works, to determine the degree of their everlasting punishment. We have 2 appointments with God we can't miss, which determine our eternal future. (1) After our death, to determine if we go up to Heaven or down to Hades. (2) After our resurrection, to determine the degree of our eternal reward or punishment. Before Jesus' resurrection, the departed spirits of all men went down to an invisible realm under the earth (SHEOL or HADES), a holding cell, where all men awaited their final judgment. The true story of the rich man& Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) describes life after death in Hades, for the saved & lost, before Christ's resurrection. It proves men's souls are conscious after death. All went down to HADES, but to different compartments. The saved went to PARADISE (Luke 23;43) or ABRAHAM'S BOSOM, but the wicked to TORMENTS, a place of punishment. By His resurrection Jesus overcame the power of Hades for His Church (Matt 16:18), and when we trust in Him our spirits are born again & made perfect by our union with the resurrected Christ (1Pet 1:3), so at death our spirits no longer go down to Hades, but up to Heaven.
What is the truth and error of Bildad's words?Bildad says several things about the fate of the wicked that are elsewhere said in the Old Testament about the end of the wicked.18:5 The light of the wicked goes out. This is stated in Proverbs 13:9; 20:20; 24:20. 18:7 The schemes of the wicked bring him down. This is stated frequently in Scripture in Psalm 7:15-16 and Prov. 26:27.18:11, 14 Terrors frighten the wicked man. Ps. 73:19 tells us that the wicked are swept away by sudden terrors. 18:13 pictures the skin of the wicked devoured by disease. In Zech. 14:12 the LORD will strike those who go to war against Jerusalem and their flesh will rot as they stand on their feet. 18:15 tells us that brimstone will be scattered on the habitation of the wicked. Ps. 11:6 says the same basic thing.18:16 The picture of the wicked is of a plant totally consumed, both its root below and its branches above. This is a picture of judgment upon the wicked in Isa. 5:24; Hos. 9:16.18:17 says that the memory of the wicked perishes. This is also stated as a judgment upon the wicked in Ps. 9:6; 34:16; Prov. 10:7. 18:19 The statement that the wicked would have no posterity nor offspring is the same thing said of the king of Babylon in Isa. 14:22. Bildad speaks truth about the ultimate fate of the wicked. Is anything wrong with his words? To focus on one example, in 18:5 what is the problem with Bildad's statement that the lamp of the wicked goes out? The problem is also not in the statement itself but in how it is used. The statement affirms that the way of the wicked will end in disaster though it does not say when nor how it will end in disaster. These statements are not given to help us to determine who is wicked and who is righteous. There are plenty of passages in Proverbs that contrast the fate of the righteous with the fate of the wicked (Prov. 10:24; 11:5; 12:13...).Is this always revealed in this lifetime? What the friends say about the fate of the wicked is correct. But is the wicked man fully repaid for his wickedness in this life? The whole Bible reveals that the final balancing the scales of justice will come in final judgment. Often it will not be evident until eternity as to who was wicked and who was righteous. In this light, the statement about the wicked leading to disaster is always like Bildad pictures it but the full truth is not revealed in this life. It may be that the picture of the wicked particularly at 18:14 may represent in a seed form the doctrine of eternal judgment. The language of 18:15 may invoke the language of judgment on Sodom. The judgment on Sodom is given as a picture of warning for God's judgment upon the wicked for all time in II Peter 2:6-9 and Jude 6-7. Jesus and Job 1818:5-6, 18 Jesus is the light of the world. The gospel of John portrays Jesus as the light (John 1:4, 5, 7, 8, 9; 3:19, 20, 21; 5:35; 8:12; 9:5; 11:9, 10; 12:35, 36, 46). 18:13-14 Jesus gives victory over the terrors of death- I Cor. 15; Heb. 2:10-18. 18:19 The wicked has no offspring or posterity. This is contrasted to Jesus- Isa. 53:10. This is contrasted with Jesus as He will see His offspring. As many as received Him to them He gave the right to be the sons of God (John 1:12). 18:20 The word appalled is used in Isaiah 52:14 of the suffering servant.
A “guarantee” sounds comforting until you read the fine print. I open with a blunt question: what can any person truly guarantee in life and career without conditions attached? From there, I share the only guarantee I've found that doesn't collapse under pressure, delays, or changing circumstances: the promises of God. We walk through what Scripture says about those promises and who they're for. I connect our identity as children of God (John 1:12) to confidence and direction, then anchor the teaching in 2 Corinthians 1:20-22 where God's promises in Jesus are yes and amen and the Holy Spirit is given as a guarantee in our hearts. If you're looking for Christian encouragement, faith-based leadership insights, and biblical guidance for hard decisions, this message is built for you. I also get practical about how to hold a promise when the timeline feels slow: receive it in prayer, meditate on it, speak it aloud, and keep trusting even when you can't see results yet. To make it real, I share a personal testimony from August 20, 2012, when I needed a new corporate assignment and God led me to Psalm 66:19-20. I wrote down what I believed for, and I've watched God fulfill it, step by step, to His glory. If you need steady faith for your next move, press play, then subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find these Evergreen Leader Development Insights.Send Tony a Texthttps://www.seldicompany.com/
I was traveling to South Africa, and I had this 18-hour flight layover in Rome, and I wanted to see as much of it as I could. A friend of mine picked me up at the airport and we began this whirlwind day by taking me to the Coliseum. As we left, we were surrounded by five or six gypsy children who started talking all at once. My friend actually told me to hang onto my stuff, which I desperately tried to do. I had my wallet in my front pants pocket as a precaution, my passport in my sport jacket, a camera bag, and an umbrella because it was raining. Those kids were good at what they did. They did everything to distract us as they tried to grab something of value. Well, my friend fended them off using his umbrella like a sword, and then we breathed a sigh of relief as we checked to see if we had everything. We had just rounded a corner when I saw this little gypsy girl - maybe five years old or so - running over the hill toward us. She was waving something blue in her hand. It was my passport. Unbeknownst to me, the kids had gotten my passport, and unbeknownst to them, this little girl had brought it back to me. It was a little miracle actually, and it was a good thing. I wasn't about to get into South Africa without my passport! I'm Ron Hutchcraft, and I want to have A Word With You today about “Your Passport for Heaven.” There's no telling what would have happened without that little girl. There was no way I could go where I wanted to go unless I had my passport. It's the only way of getting into any country in the world. It's the same about getting into heaven when you die. You've got to have your passport! Jesus spelled that out in very explicit terms in our word for today from the Word of God in John 3:1-3. In light of what He says about who will be in heaven, it's surprising how many think they will be and apparently are wrong. The Bible says, “There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council. He came to Jesus at night and said, ‘Rabbi, we know You are a teacher who has come from God' ... In reply Jesus declared, ‘I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” That's the required passport to get into heaven - being born again. Well, what is this? Whatever it is, you have no chance of heaven without it. It's the experience that makes it possible for a sinner like you and me to be born into God's family so we can be with Him forever. Now, at what point are you “born again”? Listen to God's Word a couple of chapters earlier: speaking of Jesus it says, “To all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12). The only way to be born into God's family - to be born again - is to open your heart to Jesus, to tell Him you're done running your life, that you're putting your total trust in Him and His death for your sins on the cross. The man Jesus said this to was deeply religious, very successful, and he was highly respected. But apparently none of that will get you into heaven. The most religious people still have sin that will keep them out of heaven until they've been to Jesus to get it forgiven. And if you don't know you've done that, I'm guessing you haven't. And you can't possibly get into heaven when you die. The Bible says, “No one can enter unless he is born again.” But Jesus is coming to you right now and He's got your eternal passport in His hand. Don't you want to reach out and take it? You want to belong to Him? Listen, tell Him, "Jesus, I'm yours. Only what You did on the cross for me can pay for my sin and remove it from God's book forever. Jesus, you paid for my life. I give it to You today." And let me encourage you to check out our website. There's where you'll get biblical information on how to be sure you belong to Jesus. Here's the address: ANewStory.com. Today could be like your birthday - your second birthday. This is the one that gets you into God's family and gets you into heaven. This could be the day that you could be born again.
Episode: Faith Driven Entrepreneur Podcast — Episode 379 Release Date: June 16, 2026 Guest: John Rinehart, Author & Founder of Gospel Patrons The Generosity Revolution: Rediscovering the DNA of Gospel Patrons What if the most powerful force for global Kingdom impact isn't in the pulpit—it's in the marketplace? Host Justin Forman sits down with John Rinehart, author and founder of Gospel Patrons, to trace the remarkable thread of God-fueled generosity that runs from the early church all the way to modern entrepreneurs. From William Tyndale's cloth merchant patron to the couple who funded the Jesus Film and went bankrupt the very next year, this conversation unearths the stories that prove one thing: when you give to the Kingdom of God, losing is impossible. John shares his own journey—from a 25-year-old businessman asking "what's all this for?" to circling the globe for 132 days to discover what it means to be a gospel patron. Together, he and Justin wrestle with the three enemies of Christian generosity, expose the subtle lies of the world's definition of wealth, and reveal how focused, intentional giving is the quickest path to joy there is. Key Topics: The three villains of Christian generosity: the world, the flesh, and the devil — and how to fight them with generosity, humility, and integrity Why "radical generosity is normal Christianity" — what the early church in Acts 2 and Acts 4 can teach entrepreneurs today The jaw-dropping stories of gospel patrons throughout history: William Tyndale's cloth merchant, the patron behind Amazing Grace, and Bunker & Caroline Hunt funding the Jesus Film Why focused, intentional giving produces more joy and Kingdom impact than scattered, reactive giving The three marks of a true gospel patron: financially invested, personally involved, and advancing the gospel Notable Quotes: "Radical generosity is normal Christianity." — John Rinehart "I think when we give to the kingdom of God, losing is impossible." — John Rinehart "Generosity is the quickest path to joy there is." — John Rinehart Guest Background: John Rinehart is the founder of Gospel Patrons and the author of multiple books documenting the stories of business and professional leaders who have partnered with ministry to fuel great movements of God throughout history. After careers in business and seminary, John and his wife took a 132-day trip around the world to become global Christians. His newest book, 31 Gospel Patrons, profiles 31 modern-day business and professional leaders living out the gospel patron calling today.
In this pre-Father's Day message, Pastor Andrew explores the profound spiritual reality of "Like Father, Like Son," illustrating that just as natural sons eventually become fathers, Jesus—the perfect Son—serves as the ultimate revelation of our Heavenly Father. Grounded in John 1:16-18, the sermon encourages listeners to go "backwards to go forwards" to discover that the Son uniquely knows the Father, reveals His nature, and brings us into His presence. Pastor Andrew highlights that while our view of God is often colored by our natural experiences, we must look to the face of Jesus, who arrived in both grace and truth to restore us to a family relationship with God (John 14:9, 2 Corinthians 4:6). Through a relatable personal story about the birth of his own son and the assurance that Jesus is currently interceding for us at the Father's right hand, this message declares that from His fullness we have all received the ability to walk in a new way. Ultimately, believers are reminded that because God has sent the spirit of His Son into our hearts, we can confidently call Him "Abba Father" and live in a constant, life-giving connection with Him (Galatians 4:6).