Podcasts about god john

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)

- I am born of God (1 John 5:1)- I am an overcomer (1 John 5:4)- I am a heir of God, joint heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17)- I am one with Christ,for I have put on Christ (Gal 3:27-28)- I am a Chosen generation,a royal Priesthood,a holy nation, God's own possession (1 Peter 2:9)- I am the light of the World,and I can't be hidden (Matthew 5:14-16)- I have been called to show forth God's wonderful light ( 1 Peter 2:9)- I am blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places (Eph 1:3)- I am seated with Christ in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Eph 2:6)- I am saved to live a holy Life (Eph 2:5,2:8). I have been saved by Grace, rescued from destruction by His benevolence - I have been delivered from the power of darkness ( Col 1:12-13)- I have been forgiven (Eph 4:32)- I am sanctified (1 Cor 6:11)- I have been perfected (He 10:14)- I am justified (Romans 5:1)- I am sealed,stamp with the Holy Spirit (Eph 1:13-14)- I am redeemed, redeemed by His Blood (Gal 3:13)- I am complete in Christ (Col 2:10- I am a new creation (2 Cor 5:17)- I am God's workmanship,created in Christ Jesus for good works (Eph 2:10- I am a child of God (John 1:12)- My body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19)- I am Holy (Eph 1:4)- I can do all things through Christ who strength me (Ph 4:13)- I am hidden with Christ in God (Col 3:3,Eph 1:5)- I have put on Christ (Ga 3:27)- I am loved by God (1John 4:19)- I have been chosen (Eph 1:4)- I am Strengthen and protected (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

     Sometime in eternity past, God the Father sent God the Son into the world to fulfill a divine mission. God's Word tells us, “The Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world” (1 John 4:14). This was the great mission: to bring salvation to everyone. This act of God was done in love, as it is written, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16), and “He loved us and sent His Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 4:10). The Son agreed with the Father, saying, “I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 6:38), and “The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). When God the Son came into the world and took upon Himself humanity, He executed His mission flawlessly.      The divine mission began in time and space nearly two thousand years ago when God the Son took upon Himself humanity. The writer to the Hebrews cites the words of God the Son as He was about to enter the world, saying, “Therefore, when He comes into the world, He says [to God the Father], ‘Sacrifice and offering You have not desired, but a body You have prepared for Me'” (Heb 10:5). The third Person of the Trinity, God the Holy Spirit, facilitated the mission by bringing about the hypostatic union within the womb of the virgin Mary (Isa 7:14; Luke 1:30-35; Gal 4:4). The angel Gabriel told Mary, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God” (Luke 1:35). At the moment of conception in the womb of the virgin Mary, undiminished deity was combined forever with perfect humanity. Eventually, Jesus was born, and God “became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). The apostle Paul tells us, “For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form” (Col 2:9).      God's Word informs us that Jesus was a Jew, born a son of Abraham, in the line of David (Matt 1:1), the promised Messiah (Matt 1:17). Jesus grew in wisdom (Luke 2:40, 52) and lived a perfectly righteous life before God and man. The record of Scripture is that Jesus “knew no sin” (2 Cor 5:21), was “without sin” (Heb 4:15), “committed no sin” (1 Pet 2:22), and “in Him there is no sin” (1 John 3:5). In His humanity, Jesus walked in perfect conformity to God the Father's holy character and divine revelation. This is important, for Jesus' sinless life qualified Him to go to the cross and pay the ransom price for our sins (Mark 10:45).      When the divinely appointed time came for Jesus to go to the cross (John 12:23; 13:1), He went willingly (Isa 53:10; John 10:18). Just hours before the crucifixion, Jesus said to His Father, “I glorified You on the earth, having accomplished the work which You have given Me to do” (John 17:4). Then He went to the cross and “offered Himself without blemish to God” (Heb 9:14), giving “His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Jesus paid our sin debt by means of His “precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ” (1 Pet 1:19). While on the cross, “Christ died for our sins” (1 Cor 15:3), and He died in our place, “the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God” (1 Pet 3:18; cf. Rom 5:8).      Jesus' death on the cross was a one-time event, as He “offered one sacrifice for sins for all time” (Heb 10:12). After Jesus paid for all our sins, “He said, ‘It is finished!' And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit” (John 19:30). Jesus' death on the cross satisfied every righteous demand of God the Father concerning the payment for our sins (Rom 3:25), for “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2). Jesus paid the price for all our sins. There's nothing more to pay. After Jesus died, He was placed in a grave and was resurrected to life on the third day (Acts 2:23-24; 4:10; 10:40; 1 Cor 15:3-4), never to die again (Rom 6:9). Because Christ died for everyone (John 3:16; Heb 2:9; 1 John 2:2), everyone is savable. The Bible tells us that God has brought “salvation to all men” (Tit 2:11), that He “desires all men to be saved” (1 Tim 2:4), and is “not wishing for any to perish” (2 Pet 3:9).      Once we understand who Jesus is, as God in the flesh (John 1:1, 14), and what He has accomplished for us on the cross—having died for our sins, was buried, and raised again on the third day (1 Cor 15:3-4)—we can then exercise our faith by trusting in Him as our Savior (John 3:16; 20:31). This is the Jesus of Scripture and history, and not a fake Jesus like those taught by Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, or one we create in our imagination. To receive salvation, the unbeliever is told to “believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31a). Jesus is the object of our faith. To believe in Christ as our Savior means we trust Him to accomplish for us what we cannot accomplish ourselves: eternal salvation from the lake of fire.      Faith in Christ is the only condition for salvation. Faith does not save; Christ saves. Faith is merely the instrument by which we receive the free gift of God, which is eternal life. Though the gift was very expensive for the Lord, it is offered totally free to us, for “the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom 6:23). And it is “by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph 2:8-9). Only the empty hand of faith accepts the gift. It offers nothing but is open to receive that which is offered by another. God's gift is available to everyone, for “whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16), and “he who believes has eternal life” (John 6:47). No payment is required from us to receive it (Rom 4:4-5), and no precondition of good works is necessary before, during, or after salvation.      The only sin that keeps a person out of heaven is the sin of unbelief, the individual choice NOT to trust in Jesus as one's Savior. The one who rejects Jesus as Savior is judged by God on the sole ground that “he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God” (John 3:18). These are the ones who “are always resisting the Holy Spirit” (Acts 7:51; cf. John 16:8), who “do not believe” in Jesus as their Savior (John 16:9), and “are unwilling to come” to Him so that they “may have life” (John 5:40). Those who willingly reject Christ as Savior will, after death, experience eternal separation and punishment away from God for all eternity, for “if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire” (Rev 20:15). This need not happen. Hell is avoidable for the one who trusts in Christ as Savior, for “whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Salvation is a free gift from God (Rom 3:24; 6:23), offered by grace alone (Eph 2:8-9), through faith alone (Rom 3:28; Gal 2:16; 3:26; 2 Tim 3:15), in Christ alone (John 14:6; Acts 4:12), totally apart from human works (Rom 4:5; Eph 2:8-9; Tit 3:5). For lost sinners, the matter is simple: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).      Once we have trusted in Christ for salvation, we receive forgiveness of sins (Acts 10:43; Eph 1:7), the gift of righteousness (Rom 5:17; Phil 3:9), eternal life (John 3:16; 10:28), and many other blessings (Eph 1:3). And having entered into a relationship with God through Christ (John 1:12; Gal 3:26), we are then called to a life of holiness and righteousness (1 Pet 1:15-16), as we learn His Word (2 Tim 2:15; 3:16-17; 1 Pet 2:2; 2 Pet 3:18), walk by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38), and advance to spiritual maturity (Heb 6:1). This new walk with God will honor Him and edify others (Eph 4:1-2; 5:1-2).      Our forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and many wonderful blessings from God are all made possible because God the Son came down to us and accomplished what we cannot: our salvation. For this, we praise God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit for their work of salvation, for “having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom 5:1). Amen. Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div., B.Sc.

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)

Sermon by Pastor Trevor Killip

John 17:6-19 English Standard Version 6 “I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7 Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you. 8 For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9 I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. 10 All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. 11 And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. 12 While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. 13 But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one.[a] 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them[b] in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself,[c] that they also may be sanctified[d] in truth. Footnotes John 17:15 Or from evil John 17:17 Greek Set them apart (for holy service to God) John 17:19 Or I sanctify myself; or I set myself apart (for holy service to God) John 17:19 Greek may be set apart (for holy service to God)  

Kyle OlsonMusic from Jerry Douglas' album The Set - ReneéWritten by Mike Seal

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Kara Hackert, Director of Children & Family Ministries

Monday, June 16, 2025

Back To Basics // Week 7 // PrayerPastors JF and Ashley Wilkerson1. Am I focused on the REWARD...Or the RELATIONSHIP?Matthew 6:5 NIV5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.”Matthew 6:6 NIV6 “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”1. Am I focused on the REWARD...Or the RELATIONSHIP?2. Am I focused on the LIST...Or the LISTENING?Matthew 6:7-8 NIV7 “And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.”Biblical Examples of Logos:In the beginning was the Word [logos], and the Word [logos] was with God, and the Word [logos] was God” (John 1:1 NIV).Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the Word [logos] of truth. (II Timothy 2:15 NIV).Biblical Examples of Rhema:Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word [rhema] about Christ. (Romans 10:17 NIV)Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word [rhema]. (Ephesians 5:25-26 NIV)If you remain in me and my words [rhema] remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. (John 15:7 NIV)Matthew 6:9-15 NIV9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.'” 14 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.1. Am I focused on the REWARD...Or the RELATIONSHIP?2. Am I focused on the LIST...Or the LISTENING?3. Am I focused on WHAT THEY DID or WHAT HE HAS DONE?Mark 11:24-26 NASB24 Therefore, I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you. 25 Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father who is in heaven will also forgive you your transgressions. 26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father who is in heaven forgive your transgressions.”1. Am I focused on the REWARD...Or the RELATIONSHIP?2. Am I focused on the LIST...Or the LISTENING?3. Am I focused on WHAT THEY DID or WHAT HE HAS DONE?

John 5:18 This was why the Jews were seeking all the more to kill him, because not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even callingGod his own Father, making himself equal with God. WHO IS JESUS? 1.Son of God John 5:19 So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son […]

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)

Title: Nicea: True God from God Preacher: Mark Dever Series: The Testimony of Nicea about Christ Passage: John 1:1-18

The Tongue Conquers Enemies  (Audio) David Eells 9/22/24   A shaking is on the way. War appears to be breaking out on the surface.  The Covert war between the Alliance and the DS is likely to break out in larger overt operations. The DS has invaded the cities with terrorists and military-aged men and CCP Chinese along with others that are expanding the voter rolls within, in order to overthrow President Trump and the Alliance. They are preparing for terrorist acts because of the Brunson case has gone to the Supreme Court which will overthrow the DS government.  This from Operation Disclosure: The Brunson Brothers Voter Fraud Case before the Supreme Court asked a simple question: Did Congress investigate 50 formally filed allegations of voter fraud before certifying the 2020 Election? Obviously not, and rumor was that the Supreme Court had already ruled such on the case. We awaited an announcement likely in favor of Brunson that would dissolve the Biden Administration and all of Congress, plus bring in Martial Law until a new election was held.  Five separate assassination teams actively targeting President Trump. Three are foreign, two domestic. Three Assassination Attempts have come in the last few weeks. Your prayers and faith have cast down all five of these teams. President Trump is insulated.  Congressman Tim Burchett exposed the CIA's Sinister MK ULTRA plot to assassinate Trump! amg-news.com.  As we will see below your prayers and confession will cast most of the lawlessness down.  The DS anarchists plan on mass anarchy and destruction of cities and the Alliance military is being spread coast to coast before the announcement of the Supreme Court ruling in order to defend the cities and liberty from the lawless left who will not accept democracy. We cast down their weapons of warfare.     A New War Is Coming   Michael Boldea Jr. - 04/06/2007   Jeremiah 50:22 A sound of battle is in the land, and of great destruction. James 5:8 You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.   I dreamt I was hearing what were at first faint hoof beats, but the closer they got, the louder they grew, until it was a thundering roar of not one or two horses but what seemed like hundreds. I felt as though the ground beneath me was shaking from the onrushing horses, and the sound of them became so loud, that I suddenly awoke in my bed. As I blinked a few times, adjusting to the darkness in my room, I noticed a shadow at the foot of my bed. I blinked again, and there stood the same man I have seen on previous occasions, dressed in battle armor, his hands resting atop each other before him, on the hilt of his sword.   “What is the meaning of what I just dreamt?” I asked, somehow knowing he had come to give me the interpretation.   “What you heard”, he began, “were the chariots of war, and they are swiftly approaching. A new war is coming, but it will be unlike this present one. Speak as you have spoken, pray as you have prayed, and walk as you have walked for dark days will soon come upon the land to which you are returning. Even now their enemies plot, even now their enemies unite under one banner, and soon they will make their intentions known to the world. There is no refuge but in the Father, and He will guide and protect those who know His voice”. (And confess His promises.)  I blinked again, and the man was gone, and I was left to ponder the words I had heard. I struggled with whether I should make this dream public, for I know the reaction that some will have to it, and the last thing I desire is to stir fear in the heart of any man. After much prayer I felt I was supposed to publish the dream, and though some may receive it as a reason to fear, the true children of God will receive it for what it was, the forewarning of a loving Father, preparing His children for what is to come. God's desire for us is not ignorance, but rather knowledge, that we may prepare our hearts, in prayer and fasting, that we may draw closer to Him, that we make Him our place of refuge long before hardship forces us to seek one. The wise man prepares, while the foolhardy is caught unaware.   Jeremiah 19:15 Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: 'Behold, I will bring on this city and on all her towns all the doom that I have pronounced against it, because they have stiffened their necks that they might not hear My words.       Terrorists Hiding in the States   Michael Boldea Jr. - May 5, 2003  I dreamt I was on a very high ridge, with a great valley spanning out beneath me. The night was calm, the moon and stars shining brightly in the sky. As I looked around trying to get my bearings, I was stunned to see my grandfather (Dumitru Duduman) standing next to me. He looked young and vibrant, his hands in his pockets, and a smile on his face.   “Interesting times ahead my boy, interesting times ahead”, he said. For a minute I was so shocked I couldn't say anything. Finally I blurted out the only thing that came to mind, “They have been interesting ever since you left. Trial after trial, hardship after hardship”.   “Now you know how Jesus felt when He walked the earth”, he answered, “always doing good, always in the Father's will, yet always mocked and rejected, always misunderstood and despised. Besides, it was all a test anyway”.  “A test of what?” I asked.   “For you personally, God wanted to see if you would stay true to your calling even when all seemed lost. He was preparing you and purging you, refining you, for the time when He will use you, and speak to you as He spoke to me”.   Before I could say anything, he lifted his hand to stop me. His fingers were no longer crooked from his arthritis, they were straight, and normal.   “I know what you're going to say my boy, it's not what you want, it's not what you asked for. But you should know by now it is the task you were chosen for. In this you have no choice, besides where can you hide from the face of God? Men have tried before, look how it turned out in the end. To reject what God has planned for you is to deny God. You know what the consequences are”. Unable to find the words to answer, I simply nodded my understanding and allowed him to continue speaking.   “As for why the ministry had to go through what it went through, God has already spoken that to your heart. You already know the answer. God wants all that know of this work, to be certain of one thing. It is He who sustains it; it is He who blesses it, and not the hands of men or their gimmicks. Do you think any of it would still be here after all that has happened if not for God? Never doubt Gods promises concerning this work, or His ability to fulfill them. Hope in God never disappoints; hope in man always leads to disillusionment.” (Amen. God has been preparing and sanctifying His Reformers to be leaders for the soon coming tribulation.)   “Now for the reason I am here. I was sent to show you something. Look and see”, he said, pointing down to the valley below. As I looked, I saw the outline of a map of America then the outlines of states began taking shape. As I continued to watch this map solidify, small lights began to flicker on and off in some of the states. I recognized California, Illinois, Michigan, Arizona, Washington State, Florida, and New York, among the states that lit up. The light was rhythmic, almost like a homing beacon, constant in its progression. I continued watching the lights go on and off, waiting for something else to happen, but nothing did. Finally I said, “I don't understand. What does this mean?”   “These are the places where those who were sent here long ago, to bring fear and cause chaos, have situated themselves. They lay in waiting, planning and plotting destruction. They are as coiled serpents, looking forward to the hour when they will be loosed upon this nation. If God's children pray, once more will He delay the season of sorrow that is yet to come”. (I believe He has done this.)   We stood on the ridge in silence for a long time. After a while the lights stopped flickering in the valley below, and the map began to fade away. Suddenly my grandfather turned his head toward the east, and began to sniff the air as he used to do. “Storms coming my boy, and it's a bad one”, he said. “Now give an old man a hug and let me be on my way. Be vigilant and work while you still can, it's all God asks of any of His servants. If the Father wills it, we will speak again”.   As I hugged my grandfather, I began to hear the rumbling of a great storm. The sky darkened overhead, and the booming of thunder was now audible. In my dream I closed my eyes, and when I opened them again, I was in my bed, awake. I wiped at my cheeks with the back of my hand, and realized I had been crying. As my eyes began to adjust to the dark, I saw that my wife was sitting up in bed, staring at me. When I asked her why she wasn't sleeping, she said I'd been talking in my sleep for over thirty minutes. I tried going back to sleep but sleep would not come. Finally I gave up trying, went into the kitchen and prayed until morning.   Over the past few days, I have spent much time in prayer as to whether I should share this dream or not. I believe that I am supposed to. My prayer is that no one would perceive it as a reason for fear, but rather a reason to hope. God hears the prayers of His children, and as long as He encourages us to pray, we must do so without reservation. The day will come, a day I anticipate with great dread, when God will speak to His children as He spoke to Jeremiah, and say do not pray for this people, or lift up a cry for them any longer. For now, while we still can, may we ceaselessly bring our petitions before the Lord.       Our Secret Place of Safety   David Eells   Everyone is looking for the place of safety in the tribulations to come. One man says the safe place is to be with the Ark of the Covenant, which is said to be in a Chapel next to St Mary of Zion, Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Axum, Ethiopia. I believe that Solomon gave a copy of the Ark to the Queen of Sheba who carried it there.   Be that as it may; God no longer dwells in houses made by men, so the ark is a relic. (Acts 7:47) But Solomon built him (God) a house. (48) Howbeit the Most High dwelleth not in [houses] made with hands. That just tells us that the ark in the temple was just a type and shadow of Jesus in His body. As He said, “I in them, and thou in me, that they may be perfected into one” (Jn.17:23). God now dwells in the ark of Christ and Christ now dwells in the Body of Christ. In us He is the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein [was] a golden pot holding the manna (of the Word in us), and Aaron's rod that budded (a sign of the authority of the High Priest in us), and the tables of the covenant (of the law written on our heart) (Heb.9:4).   The presence of the Ark ensured Israel of victory and protection. When the Philistines captured the Ark it brought a curse on them so terrible that they sent it home with an offering. On the other hand Jesus said in (Mat.5:13) Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost its savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under foot of men.   Another brother asked me if I thought the Christians will flee for safety to the city of Petra in Jordan. I told him that I thought Petra would be far too small to accommodate them and it would be a natural trap where they could be wiped out. I do believe that some natural Jews will find shelter in Petra, which is the Greek word for “rock”. However, spiritual Jews who are circumcised in heart, have the spiritual Rock of Jesus as a place of safety. Jesus said that standing on Him was the place where Hell had no power over us. (Mat.16:18) And I also say unto thee, that thou art Peter (Gr: “Petros”, meaning a piece of the rock), and upon this rock (Greek: Petra) I will build my church; and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. Jesus is our rock of safety.   Peter himself said that Jesus was the Rock that we are to be founded on. (1Pet.2:5) ye also, as living stones, are built up a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. (6) Because it is contained in scripture, Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: And he that believeth on him shall not be put to shame. (7) For you therefore that believe is the preciousness: but for such as disbelieve, The stone which the builders rejected, The same was made the head of the corner; (8) and, A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence; for they stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. The disobedient stumble through unbelief in the Word and so are not founded on the Rock. Judgment will take them away wherever they hide.   Those who are obedient to the Word through faith are on the safety of the Rock. (Mat.7:24) Every one therefore that heareth these words of mine, and doeth them, shall be likened unto a wise man, who built his house upon the rock: (25) and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and if fell not: for it was founded upon the rock. (26) And every one that heareth these words of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand: (27) and the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and smote upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall thereof. The apostate churches belittle obedience to the Word because of their unbelief.  We don't stand on the Rock in our own strength but our faith gives us God's strength. My wife had a dream of me after we first became Christians. She saw me standing on a Rock in the middle of the ocean. I had leg braces on like crippled people wear to strengthen their legs. I perceived that the Rock was Christ or the Word and the ocean was the curse as was the flood. In our own strength we are crippled and not able to stand on the Word, but the filling of His Spirit and faith in His promises empowers us to be what we normally are not.   It has come to me that only the rich in a time of economic collapse and wrath would be able to fly to the city of Petra, but salvation is for the poor. No amount of money can buy us safety, because it is not a place but a state of being. (Pr.11:4) Riches profit not in the day of wrath; but righteousness delivereth from death. (6) The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them; But the treacherous shall be taken in their own iniquity.   Faith in the Lord makes Him our secret refuge. (Psa.91:1) He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Notice the confession that puts us on the Rock. (2) I will say of Jehovah, He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in whom I trust. The secret place of safety will be hidden to many who are only called “Christian” but the righteous are safe right in the middle of judgment. (7) A thousand shall fall at thy side, And ten thousand at thy right hand; [But] it shall not come nigh thee. (8) Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold, And see the reward of the wicked. (The good confession that puts us in safety.)  9 For thou, O Jehovah, art my refuge! Thou hast made the Most High thy habitation; 10  There shall no evil befall thee, Neither shall any plague come nigh thy tent. God's angels will protect the righteous wherever they are. (11) For he will give his angels charge over thee, To keep thee in all thy ways. (12) They shall bear thee up in their hands, Lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. They do this for the righteous who believe. (Gal.3:13) Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us; for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: (14) that upon the Gentiles might come the blessing of Abraham in Christ Jesus.   A friend of mine had a very clear dream about the coming invasion of America. He said everyone in the Gulf States was fleeing toward the north to get as far away from the invading army as possible. He was going to get on a shuttle and go too, but the Lord told him to give his place to someone else and sent him and his family into a local city that had been nuked. He had no fear of the radiation or the enemy. It is obvious that God's people will not need to follow the world's example. Paul was not hiding but sharing the Gospel in the most effective time to do so. He said, “[in] journeyings often, [in] perils of rivers, [in] perils of robbers, [in] perils from [my] countrymen, [in] perils from the Gentiles, [in] perils in the city, [in] perils in the wilderness, [in] perils in the sea, [in] perils among false brethren” (2 Cor.11:26).   The Lord told me that this time represented the second 3½ years of the tribulation period. Paul also said, “what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me” (2Tim.3:11). He also said, “But the Lord stood by me, and strengthened me; that through me the message might be fully proclaimed, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. The Lord will deliver me from every evil work, and will save me unto his heavenly kingdom” (2Tim.4:17,18).   If one is called to be a martyr, they will have the protection of God until their testimony is finished and even then only their flesh will be given up for a sacrifice. (Rev.11:7) And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that cometh up out of the abyss shall make war with them, and overcome them, and kill them.      Agree with the Blessed Provisions   David  We are in a battle which can be won by those who will speak the Word of the Lord and confess His promises for safety and provision. The Bible tells us that Death and life are in the power of the tongue (Pro.18:21). Let's look at how we can cooperate with God in the process of sanctification so that we are those who speak life and partake of the benefits of the Kingdom and able to give them to others. (Jas.3:8) But the tongue can no man tame; [it is] a restless evil, [it is] full of deadly poison. (9) Therewith bless we the Lord and Father; and therewith curse we men, who are made after the likeness of God: (10) out of the same mouth cometh forth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. (11) Doth the fountain send forth from the same opening [sweet water] and bitter? (12) can a fig tree, my brethren, yield olives, or a vine figs? neither [can] salt water yield sweet. We want to learn by the grace of God to bring forth those “sweet waters” so that we will not suffer with the wicked.  When Moses and the children of Israel came up to Marah, meaning “bitterness” (Exo 15:22-25), they couldn't drink the water. God commanded that a tree be cast into the waters so that they would be made sweet. Marah represents the bitter waters of the fountain, or mouth, which were cured by the tree, representing the Cross. The Cross has conquered our tongue and has given us this gift of the sweet waters so we can bring forth blessings, instead of the cursings, out of this spring of our mouth. Believe this.  The Bible also tells us, The heart of the wise instructeth his mouth, And addeth learning to his lips (Pro.16:23). So we want to educate ourselves to be swift to hear, slow to speak and slow to wrath (Jas.1:19). We need to think about what we are saying and disagree with the devil because he tempts us to speak the things under the curse and not the things of the Kingdom. The Lord is helping us and He has already conquered the tongue, which no man can tame, but the Lord can through His Word and promises. Jesus was the sacrifice Who gave us a new tongue through the reconciliation.   It says in (Jos.1:6) Be strong and of good courage; for thou shalt cause this people to inherit the land which I sware unto their father to give them. (7) Only be strong and very courageous, to observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest have good success whithersoever thou goest. Notice that God said that Joshua (Hebrew: “Jesus”) was going to cause His people to be brought into their inherited Promised Land. This land belongs to us, not every Pagen alien they can invade us with and we will win this battle with them.  We know that the Promised Land is also us. Heb 6:7-8 For the land which hath drunk the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them for whose sake it is also tilled, receiveth blessing from God: 8 but if it beareth thorns and thistles, it is rejected and nigh unto a curse; whose end is to be burned. Jesus bore this curse let us confess Him before men.  The Son of God is being manifested in His people. (Col.1:27) … Christ in you, the hope of glory. He is a product of the Word of God being assimilated in our life and mouth; Christ is the Word of God (John 1:14). He saved us from our enemies. (Luk.1:70-74) (As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets that have been from of old), 71 Salvation from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; ...74 To grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies Should serve him without fear,  You crucify the spiritual man when you walk and talk in the flesh and for those who have been filled with the Holy Spirit and enlightened, who have tasted of the heavenly gift, this will become a curse unto them. (Heb.6:7) For the land which hath drunk the rain (Those who have partaken of the Word from heaven.) that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them for whose sake it is also tilled, receiveth blessing from God: (8) but if it beareth thorns and thistles, it is rejected and nigh unto a curse; whose end is to be burned. The word “rejected” is adokimos, meaning, specifically, “reprobated.” The apostle Paul said that he kept his body under control if, perhaps, after he had preached to others, he himself would be “rejected” or “reprobated” (1Co 9:27). This has been demonstrated to us.   God doesn't reprobate land; He reprobates people. The Bible is very plain; in the original Greek, we are God's “tilled land” (1Co.3:9). God wants to plow this earth, our natural life, and plant His seed in the midst of it, bringing forth the fruit of Jesus Christ in us. The land that Joshua wants to cause us to inherit is referring to our new fruit and life. Part of that is our bold faith. The spiritual man, the Israelite, is to conquer this land with the edge of the Sword, the Word of God. The spiritual man is to take the land from the enemy, the Canaanite and live in his house, our body, and plant his crop and bear the fruit of the spiritual man.   (Jos.1:7) Only be strong and very courageous, to observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest have good success whithersoever thou goest. Notice that turning to the right or left would cause failure to take our Promised Land from the enemies.   I had a dream many years ago where I was standing on a mountain, looking down into a valley and a road that went down the side of this mountain. The road had a ditch or trench down the middle of it. I was in a car, with one set of tires on one side of the trench and the other set on the other side, going down this road to the bottom of the mountain. I realized I couldn't turn to the right or the left because, if I did, two wheels would fall into the trench and that would be the end of any progress; I wouldn't go any farther. I steered very carefully, not to the right and not to the left, as I went down this mountain. Let us speak what the Word says about us.  The Lord gave me the understanding afterward that this mountain represented the kingdom of the world – man, self or the old life. I was to navigate this road and not turn to the right or left, until I got off of this mountain. As soon as I was at the bottom, I immediately realized that there were enemies everywhere. To the extent that we humble ourselves to the Word of God, going down the mountain of “self,” the more enemies we will have, even religious enemies or so-called “Christian” enemies. (2Ti.3:12) … All that would live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But as we hold fast to the confession of our hope the enemies will be conquered as our faction was and the political faction shall be. (Luk10:19) Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall in any wise hurt you.  Most of the persecution toward Jesus and the disciples came from the people who called themselves the “people of God” but were not. When I got to the bottom and knew that the enemy was everywhere, I went under a bush and there I found tools that I picked up, and treated them as if they were treasure. These tools were hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches and so on. The Lord later revealed to me that these tools represented the authority to bind and loose (Mat 18:18), as all of these tools do. The Lord made me to know I was coming to a time, when under the bush, I was going to manifest more of this authority. Let us bind our enemies in the name of Jesus.   At the time of the burning bush, Moses was given authority to go into Egypt to act for the Lord. I've been binding and loosing for many years but I believe that we're coming to a time of real power from God. It's only going to come to those who humble themselves and don't turn to the right or to the left, but stay on God's road, a self-crucifying path of obedience to the Word of God. When I picked up these tools, I went up another mountain, which represented Mount Zion. I went through the front doors of a great temple, which I believe represented the New Jerusalem on Mount Zion and I saw Jesus sitting on His throne. I went over and sat down next to Him, as He said that overcomers would do. (Rev.3:21) He that overcometh, I will give to him to sit down with me in my throne, as I also overcame, and sat down with my Father in his throne. This is the throne of dominion over our enemies.  As I was speaking with Jesus, I heard people trying to come into the throne room by a back way and not through the door that I had come through. Jesus is the door in John 10:1. Jesus saw these people and said, “Don't worry about them; they can't come in here.” So these were people looking for “throne room” authority but they wouldn't humble themselves to the Word of God personally. The Pharisees only had physical authority as in our day. God will give authority only to those who overcome according to Rev 2:26. Back to (Jos.1:8) This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth, but thou shalt meditate thereon day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. The spiritual man speaks the Word so that as you walk, it will bring good success when conquering our Promised Land for the Lord. The first fruits are approaching this point. We must speak according to God's promises, even in the midst of the fiery trial. As Christians, we “calleth the things that are not, as though they were” (Rom.4:17). We speak the things we have according to promise and not according to what we see in the world. This is how we change the things around us. This is God's plan. We let the Word, or our agreement with the Word in what we say, come from our mouth so that we may have good success in conquering our Promised Land.   Further on in Joshua, we see that he is still leading the people of God to conquer their Promised Land in order to put to death their enemies there. In this particular case, the head of God's people, Joshua, is conquering the Amorites. (Jos.10:12) Then spake Joshua to the Lord in the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel; and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; And thou, Moon, in the valley of Aijalon. I believe God is showing us here to what extent He would go to give our enemy into our hands, if we would speak the Word with boldness.   (Jos.10:8) And the Lord said unto Joshua, Fear them not: for I have delivered them into thy hands; there shall not a man of them stand before thee. On a personal and spiritual level that “man” He was referring to was the old man who lived in the Promised Land of our life before the new man took possession. He represented the lusts of the flesh, which would not be able to stand. On a physical and political level it would be the DS and their invading army. Joshua and the children of Israel were having victory over the Amorites but they were running out of time. Remember, the Lord said that if we confess Him before men, He shall confess us before the Father in Mat 10:32.   Likewise, Joshua confessed in the sight of Israel. He was bold and full of faith and he spoke it right in front of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; And thou, Moon, in the valley of Aijalon (Jos.10:12). (13) And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, Until the nation had avenged themselves of their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jashar? And the sun stayed in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day.   Now at first, I thought God just stopped Earth from spinning, but I later realized that the moon stayed in the same relative position as the sun and Earth didn't spin. It's possible the whole solar system had stopped. This is a very dangerous thing to do, unless you also control the rest of the universe. Things would tend toward collision down the road somewhere. Can you imagine that God stopped the solar system and more, just so Israel could conquer their enemy? What kind of other big miracle can you imagine that God would do for us to give us victory over our enemy? God gave the Israelites an awesome victory over their enemies! Of course, they needed the time and, for a whole day, the system was frozen. We have all heard of NASA finding the missing day so they could calculate where things would be at a certain time.  People claim that God only did that back then and does not do that today, simply because of the verse right after it. (Jos.10:14) And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the Lord hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the Lord fought for Israel. Well, the Lord still hearkens unto our voice, for many people speak miracles today and they come to pass as they did in the Bible long after Joshua. The key here is “voice of a man” The creation now hearkens to the voice of God through man.  Jesus said, the words that I have spoken unto you are spirit, and are life (Joh.6:63), meaning they are His Spirit and His life. In other words, it's the life of God living in us; it's the spiritual man who speaks in agreement with the Word of God. Also, it is the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Eph.6:17). Therefore, it's not as if God is hearkening unto the voice of a man, but He is hearkening unto the voice of His sons. That spiritual man in us is not man, but God. The Son of God is manifesting in His people speaking His Words out of us. When we come into agreement with the Word, we can be trusted. The Lord said, If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatsoever ye will, and it shall be done unto you (Joh.15:7). Why? The Word in you is trustworthy to God. If you fill yourself up with the Word and you desire earnestly to walk in agreement with it, God says you're trustworthy.   A long time after Joshua, the Lord wrote this: (Isa.45:11) Thus saith the Lord, the Holy One of Israel, and his Maker: Ask me of the things that are to come; concerning my sons, and concerning the work of my hands, command ye me. Does God really do that? When you command something to be done, like when His disciples commanded healings, deliverances, provision and so on, God fulfilled it. God gave them the authority, which is the right to use power and it's what we do when we speak in agreement with the Word of God. In effect, what we are doing is commanding God, since He said that if we do, He will do it and Jesus said the same.   Psalm 8 was spoken concerning the natural Adam and his seed, but also in type to spiritual Adam, Jesus Christ, and His seed. (Psa.8:6) Thou makest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; Thou hast put all things under his feet. This was said of man and the Son of man. Jesus said that God had given Him authority because He is son of man (Joh.5:27). Man was given authority on the earth but when Adam sinned, he lost that authority to Satan. However, we gained it back through Jesus Christ because He was faithful. We now have this authority over the works of God's hands when we speak in agreement with the Word of God and He fulfills it. (Lam.3:37) Who is he that saith, and it cometh to pass, when the Lord commandeth it not?   The next thing we see in Joshua is that they went after the five kings who were ruling the Promised Land. (Jos.10:16) And these five kings fled, and hid themselves in the cave at Makkedah. (17) And it was told Joshua, saying, The five kings are found, hidden in the cave at Makkedah. (18) And Joshua said, Roll great stones unto the mouth of the cave, and set men by it to keep them: (19) but stay not ye; pursue after your enemies, and smite the hindmost of them; suffer them not to enter into their cities: for the Lord your God hath delivered them into your hand. The first thing they did was trap the five kings in the cave and then they rolled great stones over the mouth of the cave.   Adam was created from the dust of the earth and this old man is earthly, but as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly (1Co.15:49). We are both earthly and heavenly, a spiritual man of the heavens and the carnal man of the earth represented by this cave in the earth. The carnal man of the earth has a mouth and here it's called “the mouth of the cave.” The Lord made the spiritual men roll these great stones over the mouth of the cave. The five kings represent the five senses and the spiritual man put stones, which represent the Word, over the mouth so the carnal senses are not permitted to speak and bring a curse.   The Bible says that senses must be exercised by the Word of God so that we understand the difference between good and evil. (Heb.5:13) For every one that partaketh of milk is without experience of the word of righteousness; for he is a babe. (14) But solid food is for fullgrown men, [even] those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil. Born-again people have born-again senses. As spiritual men, we must have spiritual senses. Our carnal senses trap and rule over us and our land when we live according to what we see, hear and feel as the old man and the world does.   God teaches us how to spiritually see in (2Pe.1:3) Seeing that his divine power hath granted unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that called us by his own glory and virtue. We see that God has already provided us everything that pertains unto life and godliness! Now you have the eyes of a dove (Son 1:15). You have the eyes of the Spirit when you begin to see that the promises are true, but the world is transitory. (2Pe.1:4) Whereby he hath granted unto us his precious and exceeding great promises (the stones at the mouth of the cave); that through these ye may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust.   Having eyes to see, we can partake of God's nature. We will have spiritual eyes, ears, touch, spiritual smell (or discernment), spiritual taste and words. We've been given these spiritual gifts that enable the spiritual man to take over. The Israelites had captured the five kings who ruled the Promised Land in a cave and they closed up the mouth with great stones. And we know, Jesus is the Stone; He's the Rock which is the Word of God. These great stones represent the great promises of the Word of God. We're adding learning to our lips, which are the “mouth of the cave.”   When we study the Word of God, we learn and see what we are supposed to say and what we're not supposed to say. It gives us restraint to not say things that would permit a curse upon our life. The Israelites had to conquer the Promised Land, and conquer these kings that ruled over the carnal man and bring the curse upon him. And this is what the parable points to – rolling out those stones in front of the mouth. (Eph.4:29) Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for edifying (building-up) as the need may be, that it may give grace to them that hear.   We can see that we can apply many verses when speaking of conquering the DS with all their invaders who are getting ready to overthrow this land we live in. Just a couple come quickly to mind. (Mat.18:18-19) Verily I say unto you, What things soever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and what things soever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 19 Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father who is in heaven. And (Mar.11:23-24) Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou taken up and cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that what he saith cometh to pass; he shall have it. 24 Therefore I say unto you, All things whatsoever ye pray and ask for, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. These will come in useful when the invaders rise up.  If we see and walk in the Spirit, then we speak in agreement with the Spirit. (2Co.7:1) Having therefore these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Our nature is changed by the Word of God when …we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord the Spirit. (2Co 3:18) When we see a need, such as someone living under the curse, we should speak truth with grace to them to overcome, grace to meet that need, whatever it may be. When we speak according to the Kingdom, we are meeting someone's need for God and His benefits. Saving this country from the invaders to whatever extent God permits is a need.  They will be permitted to persecute the apostate Church for it is in rebellion to the Word of our covenant. (Col.3:17) And whatsoever ye do, in word or in deed, [do] all in the name (Greek: “nature, character and authority”) of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Do everything as if you are representing Him because you are an ambassador of Christ (2Co 5:20), so speak His words to this world and His enemies. We're called to confess Him before men always and to speak in His name.   (1Pe.4:11) If any man speaketh, speaking as it were oracles of God; if any man ministereth, [ministering] as of the strength which God supplieth: that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, whose is the glory and the dominion for ever and ever. Amen. When we speak as an oracle of God, that is His Word coming out of us, we're letting the spiritual man, who is in communication with God through our spirit, do the speaking. We don't let the carnal man, the flesh, do the speaking.   To walk holy is to walk separate. The Greek word for “holy” is the same word for “sanctified” and it means “separate”; that is, separated from the world, from sin, separated unto God. We speak His words, think His thoughts and we do His works because He lives in us. The more we do that, the more we grow in holiness. It's the place of Holiness, preservation and provision. Without holiness, no man can see the Lord (Heb 12:14). Holiness is what we grow in when we bear the fruit of Jesus Christ. It is separation from the old man, who is moved and ruled by the carnal senses, unto the new man, who is ruled according to the spiritual senses.   Now let's go to (Isa.11:2) And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. (3) And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord; and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither decide after the hearing of his ears; (4) but with righteousness shall he judge the poor (This is poor in the things of the Kingdom), and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth; and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. (5) And righteousness shall be the girdle of his waist, and faithfulness the girdle of his loins.   He's talking about Christ in His first-fruits Man-child in the end-time who will not walk according to the carnal senses because he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither decide after the hearing of his ears (Isa.11:3). Instead, we are to have our senses exercised to discern good from evil (Heb 5:14) by the Word of God, which is the washing of water with the word (Eph.5:26). As our senses are exercised, we begin to see and hear spiritually; we begin to hear and speak the Voice of the Spirit.   It's similar to when David went to slay Goliath, the giant in the land. He went to the brook and pulled out those five smooth stones that were exercised by the washing of the water, which represents the Word. He took only one of those stones and he felled Goliath (1Sa 17). David spoke it to him ahead of time, declaring that he would take off Goliath's head and feed him to the birds. That's very bold! And because David spoke it, that's exactly what he did. The stone, or sense, that David was using was the tongue. The tongue senses tastes but it also speaks the Word. David conquered Goliath because he had spiritual senses.   Now we can return to Joshua. He told the Israelites to go after their enemies, since the five kings were already trapped in the cave and closed off with the stones. Now they were able to conquer those whom the kings had ruled over. (Jos.10:20) And it came to pass, when Joshua and the children of Israel had made an end of slaying them with a very great slaughter, till they were consumed, and the remnant which remained of them had entered into the fortified cities, (21) that all the people returned to the camp to Joshua at Makkedah in peace: none moved his tongue against any of the children of Israel.   (22) Then said Joshua, Open the mouth of the cave, and bring forth those five kings unto me out of the cave. (23) And they did so, and brought forth those five kings unto him out of the cave, the king of Jerusalem, the king of Hebron, the king of Jarmuth, the king of Lachish, the king of Eglon. (24) And it came to pass, when they brought forth those kings unto Joshua, that Joshua called for all the men of Israel, and said unto the chiefs of the men of war that went with him, Come near, put your feet upon the necks of these kings. And they came near, and put their feet upon the necks of them.   They let them out of the cave and they had to keep them from speaking, so they put their feet on their necks. It reminds me of the dream I've shared before about being in a war with a giant and not letting the old man speak. When he did, he said, “Bigger, bigger, bigger!” We have a lot of giants around us – a lot of big problems and a lot of big enemies. But we can't let the old man, whom I captured in the dream and who was in bondage to me, speak out of our mouth. I didn't want to let him speak because the old man has the authority to make the situation worse and make the enemy stronger and bigger. I refused him and demanded that the giant be reduced, saying, “No! Smaller, smaller, smaller.”   Similarly, the Israelites put their feet on the kings' necks, causing the five senses to not speak or to rule over the body. (Jos.10:25) And Joshua said unto them, Fear not, nor be dismayed; be strong and of good courage: for thus shall the Lord do to all your enemies against whom ye fight. (Notice, you speak the Word and the Lord will do it. In Rev.12:11, the devil and his angels were cast down by the “word of their testimony” of the saints.)  (26) And afterward Joshua smote them, and put them to death, and hanged them on five trees: and they were hanging upon the trees until the evening. Notice that all of our enemies, firstly our old man, will be conquered in this way. Father said against Babylon in Jer.51:3 …Utterly destroy all her army. We are not permitted to wrestle with flesh nor use fleshly weapons but to “resist not” and if opportunity arises we are to preach Christ to them.  But we have authority over all their power and that includes the principalities and powers. (Luk.10:19) Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall in any wise hurt you. As an example to us, before Jesus' time of crucifixion, when the Jews sought to throw him off a cliff, he just passed through their midst unharmed. I was shot at by an assassin from close range and my angel made the bullet disappear. A tractor back blade was thrown straight at my head by a demon, while Michael watched, but all I felt was a finger on my nose pushing me to the ground with zero pain. That was just ahead of the blade. Michael was sure it had hit and killed me.  My tractor wheel fell into a hole and the tractor was flipping into a gully. I was looking straight down at the ground when the tractor uprighted with me stuck in the seat. It was a work of our satanists. Several other times I escaped them. (Luk.1:68) ...For he hath visited and wrought redemption for his people... 71 Salvation from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us...74 To grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies Should serve him without fear.  Jesus Christ was hanged upon a tree, or cross, and they wanted to take Him down before evening, too. Jesus also was buried in a cave. So why is God applying this to the senses of the old man? (Gal.2:20) I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ living in me: and that life which I now live in the flesh I live in faith, the faith which is in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me. That includes our five senses. The Lord has already taken care of this problem when He was crucified on that tree and you were crucified with Him. You have been given this gift of the new man, for by one offering he hath perfected forever them that are sanctified (Heb.10:14).  We walk in the spirit according to these divine senses that are attuned to the Kingdom of Heaven. These senses see how to walk in the Kingdom. It comes quite naturally to us to walk in the world but it comes supernaturally to us to walk in the Kingdom; that is, to have our senses exercised by the Word of God to see and hear the way God sees and hears, and to smell, or discern, the way God does. It is also to have our emotions in communication with God.   We have the victory over the old man and his senses because he's dead and the new man, Who is Jesus Christ, lives in you. Because of your faith and speaking that faith, God will bring it to pass. He will do it through our faith and not by our works. (Eph.2:8) For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; (9) not of works, that no man should glory.   Father, we pray that You will (Psa.141:3) Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; Keep the door of my lips. Amen.  So we know that in the Kingdom of Heaven, there is singing, praise, worship and thanksgiving to the Lord our King. When we do this, we are bringing more of His Kingdom down here to earth. (Mat.6:10)  We have ‘authority over all the power of the enemy' (Luk.10:19). We have power in praise. When we praise the Lord, He gives us the victory!       Worship and Praise   Vines Expository Dictionary on the Greek word Worship: “to make obeisance, do reverence to” (from pros, “towards”, and kuneo, “to kiss”), is the most frequent word rendered “to worship”. It is used of an act of homage or reverence. In other words, worship is an act of love toward God.   Father is looking for those who worship Him with their all: (Joh.4:21) Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when neither in this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, shall ye worship the Father. (22) Ye worship that which ye know not: we worship that which we know; for salvation is from the Jews. (23) But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and truth: for such doth the Father seek to be his worshippers. (24) God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship in spirit and truth. There is much fake worship -- words without heart and spirit.   Worship is the way to bring God's presence: (Psa.100:1) Make a joyful noise unto Jehovah, all ye lands. (2) Serve Jehovah with gladness: Come before his presence with singing. (3) Know ye that Jehovah, he is God: It is he that hath made us, and we are his; We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. (4) Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, And into his courts with praise: Give thanks unto him, and bless his name. (5) For Jehovah is good; His lovingkindness endureth forever, And his faithfulness unto all generations.   Worship reveals our love and admiration for God and He knows it: (1Ch.29:11) Thine, O Jehovah, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Jehovah, and thou art exalted as head above all.   Praise Him everywhere, with a new song that comes from your heart, and dancing and with all instruments and enemies will be conquered: (Psa.149:1) Praise ye Jehovah. Sing unto Jehovah a new song, And his praise in the assembly of the saints. (2) Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: Let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. (3) Let them praise his name in the dance: Let them sing praises unto him with timbrel and harp. (4) For Jehovah taketh pleasure in his people: He will beautify the meek with salvation. (5) Let the saints exult in glory: Let them sing for joy upon their beds. (This will bind our enemies works against us.)  (7)  To execute vengeance upon the nations, And punishments upon the peoples;  (8)  To bind their kings with chains, And their nobles with fetters of iron;  (9)  To execute upon them the judgment written: This honor have all his saints. Praise ye Jehovah. (Children can conquer enemies in worship.) Psa 8:2  Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou established strength, Because of thine adversaries, That thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger. (150:1) Praise ye Jehovah. Praise God in his sanctuary: Praise him in the firmament of his power. (2) Praise him for his mighty acts: Praise him according to his excellent greatness. (3) Praise him with trumpet sound: Praise him with psaltery and harp. (4) Praise him with timbrel and dance: Praise him with stringed instruments and pipe. (5) Praise him with loud cymbals: Praise him with high sounding cymbals. (6) Let everything that hath breath praise Jehovah. Praise ye Jehovah. It is the will of the Lord to worship in songs and hymns: (Eph.5:17) Wherefore be ye not foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. (18) And be not drunken with wine, wherein is riot, but be filled with the Spirit; 19 speaking one to another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; (20) giving thanks always for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; We give thanks to God; this is a secret of power because we believe we have already received what we asked, right?   Praise (meaning “brag on”) Him to everyone: (1Ch.16:23) Sing unto Jehovah, all the earth; Show forth his salvation from day to day. (24) Declare his glory among the nations, His marvelous works among all the peoples. (25) For great is Jehovah, and greatly to be praised: He also is to be feared above all gods. (26) For all the gods of the peoples are idols: But Jehovah made the heavens. (27) Honor and majesty are before him: Strength and gladness are in his place. (28) Ascribe unto Jehovah, ye kindreds of the peoples, Ascribe unto Jehovah glory and strength; (29) Ascribe unto Jehovah the glory due unto his name: Bring an offering, and come before him: Worship Jehovah in holy array. (30) Tremble before him, all the earth: The world also is established that it cannot be moved. (31) Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; And let them say among the nations, Jehovah reigneth.   We are taught to worship, praise and pray with hands lifted up to the Lord: (1Ti.2:8) I desire therefore that the men pray in every place, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and disputing. (Psa.63:4) So will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. (Lam.3:41) Let us lift up our heart with our hands unto God in the heavens. (Neh.8:6) and Ezra blessed Jehovah, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with the lifting up of their hands: and they bowed their heads, and worshipped Jehovah with their faces to the ground.   Why lifting up hands? Offering our hands to the Lord for His works and to conquer His enemies: (Exo.17:9) And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: to-morrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in my hand. (10) So Joshua did as Moses had said to him, and fought with Amalek: and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. (11) And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed; and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. (12) But Moses' hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; And his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. (13) And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.   Worship and praise will conquer overwhelming enemies: (2Ch.20:17) Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of Jehovah with you, O Judah and Jerusalem; fear not, nor be dismayed: to-morrow go out against them: for Jehovah is with you. (18) And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground; and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell down before Jehovah, worshipping Jehovah. (19) And the Levites, of the children of the Kohathites and of the children of the Korahites, stood up to praise Jehovah, the God of Israel, with an exceeding loud voice.   (20) And they rose early in the morning, and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa: and as they went forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem: believe in Jehovah your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper. (21) And when he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed them that should sing unto Jehovah, and give praise in holy array, as they went out before the army, and say, Give thanks unto Jehovah; for his lovingkindness endureth forever. (22) And when they began to sing and to praise, Jehovah set liers-in-wait against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, that were come against Judah; and they were smitten. (The angels will smite the enemies in the land.)  Worship to bind the enemy and their kings: (Psa.149:6) Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, And a two-edged sword in their hand; (7) To execute vengeance upon the nations, And punishments upon the peoples; (The Lord is doing this.) (8) To bind their kings with chains, And their nobles with fetters of iron; (9) To execute upon them the judgment written: This honor have all his saints. Praise ye Jehovah.   Because judgment and enemies are near, fear God and worship Him: (Rev.14:7) and he saith with a great voice, Fear God, and give him glory; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made the heaven and the earth and sea and fountains of waters. (Dan.3:16) Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer thee in this matter. (17) If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out of thy hand, O king. (18) But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.   (2Ki.17:38) and the covenant that I have made with you ye shall not forget; neither shall ye fear other gods: (39) but Jehovah your God shall ye fear; and he will deliver you out of the hand of all your enemies.   We can clap and shout our triumph over our enemies. Triumph is celebrating the victory before we see it: (Psa.47:1) Oh clap your hands, all ye peoples; Shout unto God with the voice of triumph. (Jos.6:20) So the people shouted, and the priests blew the trumpets; and it came to pass, when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, that the people shouted with a great shout, and the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city.   Praise in Hebrew is “Hallal”, meaning brag on the Lord. Give credit or ascribe to the Lord: (Psa.29:1) Ascribe unto Jehovah, O ye sons of the mighty, Ascribe unto Jehovah glory and strength. (2) Ascribe unto Jehovah the glory due unto his name; Worship Jehovah in holy array. (3) The voice of Jehovah is upon the waters: The God of glory thundereth, Even Jehovah upon many waters. (4) The voice of Jehovah is powerful; The voice of Jehovah is full of majesty. (5) The voice of Jehovah breaketh the cedars; Yea, Jehovah breaketh in pieces the cedars of Lebanon. When we speak in agreement with the Word of God, we are giving “voice” to the Word and the angels hearken to His voice. (Psa.103:20) Bless Jehovah, ye his angels, That are mighty in strength, that fulfil his word, Hearkening unto the voice of his word. Amen! 

It’s part of the human experience not to understand. In fatherly compassion, our God doesn&rsq...

Worship, Wilderness, and the Way to RighteousnessThis episode focused on biblical worship, the importance of submitting to God's authority, and the contrast between earthly and heavenly people. Drawing from stories and verses from Psalms, John, and Revelation, the message emphasized the believer's identity as part of Christ's heavenly bride. Listeners were exhorted to worship in spirit and truth, remain tenderhearted, and grow in righteousness through Christ as the Chief Shepherd. It closed with a call to thanksgiving, joy, and the enduring power of God's justice and love.Themes:Worship and submission to God as Creator (Psalm 95; John 4:23)Lessons from the wilderness and unbelief Jesus as the one who draws all to God (John 6:44; Eph. 5:25–27)Earthly vs. heavenly people: understanding true IsraelChrist as Messiah, Prophet, King—and our Chief Shepherd (1 Pet. 5:4–6)Finding joy, peace, and righteousness in Christ (Matt. 5:6; John 16:33)The power of thanksgiving and spiritual songs (Col. 3:16; Psalm 19)The dangers of a hardened heart and resisting God's callThe process of sanctification and growing in graceGod turns curses into blessings (Deut. 23:5)Scripture References: Psalm 95; John 17:14–16; John 4:23; John 6:44; John 16:33; Ephesians 5:25–27; Colossians 3:16; Revelation 21; Matthew 5:6; 1 Peter 5:4–6; Deuteronomy 23:5; John 1:1–3; Psalm 19

Samson, whose name means “brilliant sunshine”, goes to view Timnah (the inheritance ie of his tribe). There ‘he saw a woman' of the uncircumcised – uncovenanted – Philistines, who was ‘right in his own eyes' – his problem was characteristic of the entire nation (14 verse 7; 17verse 6; 21verse 25). In the vineyards of his inheritance, a place to be avoided by a sworn Nazarite. We read that a lion – representing the ravaging Philistines – roared against Samson. And he rips the beast asunder with no apparent effort. Several days later Samson returns to see the ‘ruin' (AV ‘carcass') of the lion only to find that miraculously and uncharacteristically a swarm of bees had made their hive in the putrid carcass. It was God's sign to Samson that by trusting in the Almighty the Philistines could be overthrown and sweet deliverance come for the Covenant people. Samson is deceived time and time again by the enemy and he engages tit for tat with them throughout these two chapters. Samson declares on each occasion that after avenging himself just once more against the Philistines he will leave the matter there. However this is not the intention of the Almighty – the Philistines need to be weakened. Notice how the LORD escalates the conflict: in 14verse 19 he slays 30 men at Ashkelon; then in 15verse 15 at Lehi a 1,000 are slain. Also observe the recurring of multiples of 3, as troubles escalate. Samson's mighty acts should have inspired his people to follow him as he could have been God's instrument for victory. But his own people reject him just as they had rejected Moses centuries earlier. Instead as the pressure of the Philistines grew stronger upon God's people 3,000 men of Judah come to plead with Samson for his surrender and then they bind him and hand him over to the Philistines. Surely we are reminded by this of the Lord Jesus being bound in the Garden of Gethsemane; being eventually sent to the Roman authorities to be tried and crucified. Samson, like our Lord, was thirsty after his great victory. In Isaiah 38 faithful God cures Hezekiah of the leprous boil, which threatened to end his life and which was preventing him from worshipping in the Temple. At this time of Hezekiah's and his nation's greatest need, when everything seemed hopeless, their Sovereign delivered them. However in spite of his recovery Hezekiah later becomes lifted up in pride as we will learn tomorrow in chapter 39. Nonetheless at this time the faithful prayer of a faithful man availed greatly (James 5verse 16). Hezekiah's prayer is a model prayer for us. It shows an elevation of king Hezekiah's God. The prayer gives glory to God. It also praises Yahweh's loving kindness in saving Hezekiah and delivering the people of Judah. His prayer states our lack of power to help ourselves and pleads for our Omnipotent Creator to show mercy for His children. It acknowledges our need to respond to God's love in praise and thanksgiving every day of our life. We too, like king Hezekiah, have been blessed and delivered from the gates of sheol (the grave): Matthew 16 verse 18-19; Revelation 1verses17-18. Marvel at the wonderful metaphors and imagery that Hezekiah uses to describe the frailty of humanity. Meditate on the significance of his exhortation to us in verses 19-20. King Hezekiah is given a sign that he will recover in Isaiah 38:21. 2 Peter is also written to the dispersed Jews in Asia Minor ie Turkey. It commences in the same way as the first letter. The time of writing is in 66-67 AD and the persecution by Nero is now at its fiercest. According to tradition, the two foremost leaders of the believers, Paul and Peter, were both executed in 67 AD. Clues in Peter's 2nd epistle indicate that the most likely date of the epistle is 67 AD. Believers in Christ Jesus had attained to the same precious faith as the great Apostle to the Jews. From verses 3-15 these disciples are urged to make their calling and election ie selection by God sure. Peter tells them in verses 2-4 that our Father has given them all things that are necessary for a godly life; and that these great promises, which they now share, are graciously granted them offering believers a sharing of the Father's character and life. From verses 5-7 Peter enumerates the virtues being developed by God in their lives. These virtues are not sequential, but rather they are a group of traits befitting saints, and to be cultivated simultaneously. They summarise the character of our Lord Jesus Christ, outlined in Matthew 5:1-12. Great blessings accompany such saints who, in measure, develop the character of their Lord Jesus Christ. These divine virtues are called by brother Marshall – “The Portrait of a Saint”. Belief is the foundation upon which the faithful build (and that foundation is Christ Jesus see 1 Corinthians 3 verses 10-15 and Ephesians 2:19-22. Peter elaborates further on this theme at the start of chapter 2). The last 2 are at the apex of the developing saint's life – brotherly kindness (Philadelphos) and love (agape, self-sacrificing love); embody both of these fully exemplified in our Head, the Lord Jesus Christ. Where these qualities abound fruit is produced in the disciple. But a short-sighted approach stultifies the life of a disciple; and is the product of forgetting and neglect. In the practising of these qualities the disciples will attain the glory and the kingdom, which they seek. Peter would strive with his last breath to remind them of this. The Apostle speaks of “departure” (Greek “exodus” verse 15). The Tabernacle; of “the ecclesia in the wilderness” (Acts 7:44). This was emblematic of the LORD going with them. Peter talks of the entrance (“eisodus”) into the kingdom. How frequently is the theme stated, “Yahweh BROUGHT you out of Egypt, that He might BRING you into the land promised to the fathers (Abraham, Isaac and Jacob). Verses 16-21 speak of Christ's incomparable glory and the transcending greatness of the prophetic Word of our God (compare 1 Peter 1 verses 22-25). There can be no mistaking what we (Peter, James and John) saw on the Mount of Transfiguration – compare with Luke 9 verses 28-38. The glory of Moses and Elijah paled into insignificance alongside the glory of the Son of God – John 1 verses14-15. And that glory was reminiscent of the Father's own glory (Hebrews 1-1-4). As great as the prophetic Word was when spoken through Moses and Elijah the Father's Word from heaven boomed, “This is my Beloved Son, HEAR HIM”. If this witness was not enough, we have the added testimony of the prophetic Word centred on, and embodied in our Lord Jesus Christ. The prophetic Word shines more brightly as we see its fulfilment day by day. (Proverbs 4 verses 18-19). Prophecy never originated from the prophet's own mind. Instead the inspired Word of God found its source in holy men of God being “impelled”, or “driven along” by God's power. And so although the style of the prophet is individual, the message is infallibly that of the Almighty (see 2 Timothy 3 verses 14-17). In chapter 2 Peter deals with the tragedy of false teaching. Peter uses Biblical history to show that those who would attempt to deflect God's elect are always active among the believers. The Apostle Peter uses 3 historical examples. These examples are similar to those in Jude's letter – one from before the flood; one from the era of Abraham; and another from the time of the Wilderness wanderings in Moses' epoch. Peter explains the inevitability of false teachers arising from their midst (compare Acts 20 verses 29-32). Peter says that the errorists are not genuine – the words that these false teachers use are called “feigned” (Greek “plastos”) – taught for effect, with no concern for truth. The doctrine is moulded to fit the teacher's designs (2 Timothy 4 verses 1-5). But God has long ago decided to destroy people like this (See Revelation 22verses 15). The first example is in verse 5 and speaks of the gainsayers opposing Noah (cp Jude verses 14-16). The second is from the era of faithful Abraham (2 Peter 2verses 6-10). These verses tell of total detesting by God of homosexuality. And lastly, verses 10 (the second half) to verse 11. Here Peter deals with the rebellion of Korah, Dathan and Abiram against Moses (also in Jude verses 5-7; the original account being in Numbers 14). All of those historical events highlight two Divine principles – 1) Yahweh demonstrated His capacity to deliver the righteous out of their trial; and, 2) that the ungodly have been earmarked by the Almighty for judgment and destruction (Acts 17verses 30-31). Verse 17 uses metaphors to describe these vain talkers. Verses 18-19 reveal the true motives of those apostates. And verses 20-22 a further two metaphors describe their sickening behaviours. Those who once knew God's truth, but chose to turn away are described in two tragic pictures which illustrate God's perspective. These reprobates are like dogs eating their own vomit; or like washed pigs returning to their miry muddy past. Audio Player      

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As we grow and step into all God has for us, we're called to live with authenticity and faith—rooted in knowing God, understanding our identity, and sharing what we've been given. We weren't created to chase perfection or live in duplicity. Somewhere along the way, the Christian walk became more about appearances than substance. But Jesus calls us simply to be—to shine our light and reflect Him with simplicity, purity, and authenticity.Let's remember who we are and live from the truth of Scripture:Children of God (John 1:12)A new creation (Galatians 4:5–7)Members of His body (1 Corinthians 12:27)Salt and light (Matthew 5:13–16)The Church (Ephesians 1:22)In Matthew 5, Jesus calls us salt and light—both essential for life. Light brings clarity, vision, energy, and well-being. Salt preserves, purifies, and enhances. We carry something powerful within us—let's live with that awareness.Matthew 5:13–16 (NIV) “You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the world... Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”Let's shine brightly, live with kindness, and boldly share the gospel with those around us.Join us for our Summer of Kindness activations!For more info, you can go to our website, check us out on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. If you would like to support STUDIO financially, you can do so here.Have a great week!

John 17:23 Shai Linne June 8, 2025

Pentecost A Sermon by Brenard Rowe, Elder at Victory Church in Providence, RI.   Introduction and Opening Remarks Expression of gratitude for the opportunity to minister. Acknowledgement and prayer for the pastor's recovery. Personal anecdote about being asked to preach on short notice. Setting the Context: Pentecost Sunday Explanation that Pentecost is recognized as the birth of the church and a pivotal event in Christian doctrine. Emphasis on the empowerment of the disciples by the Holy Spirit and the ongoing relevance of Pentecost. The Role and Power of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit transforms believers from fearful followers to bold witnesses. The Holy Spirit provides strength, peace, wisdom, unity, and equips believers for service. Biblical Foundation Reference to Acts 2:1-4 describing the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Jesus' instructions to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5, Acts 1:8). Importance of receiving the Holy Spirit before undertaking ministry. The Experience of the Early Church Disciples' state of confusion and despair after Jesus' death. Fulfillment of Jesus' promise through the coming of the Holy Spirit. The supernatural signs accompanying the Spirit's arrival (wind, tongues of fire, speaking in tongues). Speaking in Tongues Definition: A supernatural language for worship and communication with God. Old Testament examples of the Spirit coming upon individuals (e.g., Moses' elders, Gideon, Samson, Saul's messengers). New Testament affirmation of speaking in tongues as evidence of Holy Spirit baptism. Instances of Holy Spirit Baptism in the New Testament Jerusalem (Acts 2:4): Disciples receive the Holy Spirit. Samaria (Acts 8:14-17): Believers receive the Spirit through the apostles' laying on of hands. Saul/Paul (Acts 9:17): Receives the Spirit after Ananias lays hands on him. Cornelius' house (Acts 10:44-48): Gentiles receive the Holy Spirit while Peter preaches. Ephesus (Acts 19:1-6): Believers receive the Holy Spirit through Paul. Benefits of Being Filled with the Holy Spirit Power for ministry (Acts 1:8). Spiritual refreshing (Isaiah 28:11). Ability to witness and reveal Christ (John 16:13-14). Inner strength and comfort (John 15:26). Spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Spiritual quickening (Romans 8:11). Who Can Be Filled with the Holy Spirit? Everyone: Rich, poor, young, old, sinners, saints, children, etc. Reference to Psalm 81:10 as encouragement to receive. Who Cannot Be Filled with the Holy Spirit? Those satisfied with mere salvation and unwilling to serve. Disobedient and unyielding Christians. Those who do not believe or are closed off to the Holy Spirit. Conditions for Receiving the Holy Spirit Repentance and baptism (Acts 2:28). Asking God with faith (Luke 11:13). Deep conviction, consecration, and willingness to live for God (John 7:37-39). The Ongoing Work of the Holy Spirit in Believers Teaches and makes believers teachable. Enables true worship and confession. Guides prayer and leads by God's word. Conclusion The Holy Spirit is the comforter and helper sent by God. Encouragement to be open to the Holy Spirit's work and to fulfill commitments in service to God and the church.  

June 8, 2025 - Sunday AM Sermon   Why We Come to Church… Hiram Kemp Introduction: 1. For ____________ Christians have ____________ on the ___________ day of the  ______________. 2. Our ____________ are ________________ from every other ______________ in  the _____________. 3. There are a lot of ______________ about our ______________ for  ______________. 4. The New___________ is ____________ that there are several _____________ for  us coming ______________ as the ____________. I. _____________ God (John 4:23-24) II. ________________ Jesus (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34) III. __________ & _____________ __________________ (Hebrews 10:24-25) IV. As a ___________ to ____________ (Acts 2:42-47) V. ______________ for __________________ (Revelation 7:9-17) Conclusion: 1. It is a __________ and a __________ to gather as God's ___________. 2. May we all __________ why we ___________ and ________ to never ___________  miss. 3. ___________ makes __________, so let's keep __________!   Duration 32:45

By John Halsey Wood

"John 17v3 - And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent."If we will lose anything in life, we must not lose our intimate personal relationship with Christ. It is the practical evidence of our eternal life

May 11, 2025

Ezekiel 1:25-2:1; Revelation 1:9-17While these types of experiences seem rare, they can occur today, not only to great prophets but those that consider themselves ordinary believers. They are especially crafted by God to produce “Awe”, or what we call the “Fear of the Lord” which is a foundational experience (Proverb 1:7, 9:10) which aids the believer to develop “Compassionate wisdom.” This type of experience usually induced by either theophany or angelic appearance can be shocking to the surprised recipient but it is given to produce awe of God. This experience prepares the believer for a very challenging call and mission. This type of experience can also resolve the subtle evil of becoming “over-familiar” with God: all daddy and no Lord; which may lead to a primarily egocentric relationship, where God becomes an easy broker or a soft touch: Remember that in the Lord's prayer “your Kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” come before Give us today our daily bread etc. God has for all of us His will to be done on earth and sometimes it is so challenging that He gives such shocking experiences. It helps produce awe, respect, reverence for God that surpasses the normal human responses like fear because of the difficult call and challenge to their faith. And as in Paul's life, God given radical manifestation began his ministry and continued throughout his ministry (Acts 9:23:11; 27:23)Our key passages (Ephesians 1:25-2:1; Revelation 1:9-17) Continue to illustrate the humanly uncomfortable manifestations for God's prophets' but what begins as a shock ends with wisdom, confidence in God and His plan.Usually these shocking manifestation of God occur when God's macro/major plans are revealed: Other examples are easy to locate in Scripture.  Abraham's call in Genesis 12:3 “Where he fell face down” before God's revelation.Moses Burning Bush experience in Exodus 3, The whole chapter records Moses shock and human reticenceIsaiah's reaction in Isaiah 6:1-5 especially verse 5, “woe to me!” I am ruined… because eyes have seen the king, the Lord almighty” Remember also Job 42:1-5)Mary's response to the angel Gabriel, Luke 1:29-30 “... Mary was greatly troubled and confused at the angel's words'The disciples at Jesus's transfiguration (Matthew 17:6 “When the disciples heard the voice of the Lord, declaring Jesus as His son, they fell facedown to the ground, terrified!While these experiences themselves seem to be far from a blessing they all lead to a great respect for God and HIs personal call in their lives, an “Awe” and confidence that He who calls us is able to empower us to get it done (Philippians 1:6) a shock experience that leads to glory.Finally these experiences can be distinguished from an Ananias and Sapphira type of experience. Which illustrates a judgment from God. John the revelator's “falling at the risen Jesus's feet”, as though dead that produced great fear” was only a prelude to His call that produced great awe before God: John was “awestruck” before Jesus and His great Revelation. He received an experience while in prison at the island of Patmos, to encourage him to continue to see and write God's final Revelation. John still had a purpose for the Kingdom & God had not abandoned him, even in prison.Amen 

John 1:1-5

Behold the Lamb of God (John 1:29–34) — Why This Title MattersIn this episode of the Jesus Everyday Podcast, we dive into John 1:29–34 to uncover why John the Baptist was the only one to call Jesus the "Lamb of God"—and why that matters for your faith today. Join Ethan Callison, Andrew McPheron, Matt Thieman, and Matt Novitsky as we explore the connection between Jesus and the Passover lamb, what it means to be baptized with the Holy Spirit, and how believers can live boldly as witnesses of Christ.We also unpack common questions like:What's the difference between water baptism and Spirit baptism?Do you have to speak in tongues to be saved?Why does John leave out Jesus' actual baptism?How do we avoid becoming numb to the wonder of salvation?

Istrouma Baptist Church (ASC) May 25, 2025 ========== May 25 - These Words Changed My Life Welcome! We're glad you've joined us today for our Sunday morning worship service! For more information about Istrouma, go to istrouma.org or contact us at info@istrouma.org. We glorify God by making disciples of all nations. ========== Connection Card https://istrouma.org/myinfo "The Love of God" John 3:16-17 ‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬-‭17‬‬ “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 1. A conversation about salvation. 2. Salvation originates in the character of God. 3. He offers salvation not condemnation.

Why is time with God important? Pastor John Lindell shares how Moses was transformed by spending time with God—face to face, day after day. Our prayer is that you would discover the power of personal time with the Lord and let His presence change your heart, your thoughts, and your life.

Why is time with God important? Pastor John Lindell shares how Moses was transformed by spending time with God—face to face, day after day. Our prayer is that you would discover the power of personal time with the Lord and let His presence change your heart, your thoughts, and your life.

Gregg DeMey, Lead Pastor

Kyle Olson, Technical Director

Kelly Day, Director of Coffee Break Bible Study

This week our guest speaker, Pastor Phil, invites us to reimagine the Christian life not as something we do for God, but with God. Drawing from John 15 and Matthew 11, he unpacks Jesus' invitation to walk in intimate friendship and shared burden. Through his personal stories and illustrations, we're challenged to see mission as a daily journey of presence, rest, and partnership with Christ.

God's favor is freely given, undeserved kindness that looks beyond our faults and sees our needs, unlike rewards based on good behavior. This message explores how to receive and walk in divine favor during challenging times.• Favor requires genuine connection to God, not just church attendance• God prunes both dead things and dying things in our lives to increase fruitfulness• Remaining connected to Christ produces an overflow of joy that becomes our strength• The redemptive power of favor is seen in Christ's atonement for our sins• God's favor reveals His purposes and plans for our lives as we obey• You are chosen and appointed by God for a specific purpose that comes with an anointingIf you need a fresh connection with God or want to experience His favor in your life, we invite you to respond today. God has not brought you this far to leave you - your answer only needs to be "yes." Welcome To Chosen City Church! We are excited to you have worship with us today and we pray that this sermon blesses you!Partner With Chosen City Church:https://www.chosencitychurch.com/part...Support Chosen City Church:https://www.chosencitychurch.com/givePodcasts and More:https://linktr.ee/chosencitychurchConnect With Chosen City ChurchWebsite: https://chosencitychurch.com.comInstagram: @ChosenCityChurchYouTube: Chosen City ChurchFacebook: Chosen City ChurchIntro and outro created by Joe Anderson Jr. of Truflava Productions

Pastor Andy Cass What if the thing keeping you from freedom is the very thing you're avoiding? The Armor of God—starting with the Belt of Truth—and challenges us to stand up, gear up, and live free. TEXT: Galatians 5:13, Ephesians 6:11-14, Jeremiah 1:17-19, Genesis 1:27, John 3:16, 1 John 1:9, Ephesians 1:7, John 1:12, 2 Corinthians 5:17, 1 Peter 1:15-16, Acts 1:8, 1 Peter 2:9, John 10:28 NOTES: Belt of Truth: -Status: Whose team are you on? -Practicality: Belt used to tuck cloak to move freely -Symbol: Poised and Ready -Be careful not to use the Belt of Truth as a weapon. -"If Pride is an overabundance of confidence, then insecurity is an under amount of trust." -Pride and Insecurity = Apathy → leads us back to Egypt (bondage) -Inaction doesn't move us forward—it drifts us back to Egypt. Ultimately leaving us alone, back to isolation, and back to bound." TRUTHS TO BUCKLE AROUND YOU Created in God's image – Genesis 1:27 Loved by God – John 3:16 Forgiven – 1 John 1:9 Redeemed – Ephesians 1:7 Child of God – John 1:12 New Creation – 2 Corinthians 5:17 Called to Holiness – 1 Peter 1:15-16 Empowered by the Spirit – Acts 1:8 Chosen – 1 Peter 2:9 Promised Eternal Life – John 10:28 Leave a comment, subscribe, and share with a friend. Connect with us https://theecho.churchcenter.com/people/forms/113001 Support what Echo Church is doing at https://theecho.churchcenter.com/giving Watch Echo Online Sunday Service at 9 AM https://www.youtube.com/TheEchoChurch Become our friend and/or watch on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/wearetheechochurch Follow us on Instagram: @wearetheechochurch

John 3:33 He who has received His testimony has set his seal to this, that God is true. Have you set your seal, given your stamp of approval, to the reality that Jesus is the Son of God, sent by the Father, God? Jesus' testified that He was the way, the truth, and the life, and that no one can go to the Father except by Him (John 14:6). His life was the testimony of God, for Jesus said that the Father abides in Him and He abides in the Father, and that when He speaks, His Father works (John 14:10). When the Father works in the hearts of people, He prepares them to carry the fruit of the Son, the love of God (John 15:3). “You are already clean (pruned, prepared for displaying the fruit of the Vine) because of the word which I have spoken to you.” The lives of believers validate the reality of God when they receive the testimony of Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus gave a new commandment to His disciples that they should love one another as He loved them (John 13:34). The only way they could love like Jesus was if they received Jesus' testimony about Himself and believed that He was God (John 14:1). Jesus told His disciples that the day the Holy Spirit came to them, they would believe and know that Jesus was in the Father, that they were in Jesus, and that He was in them (John 14:20). They would know the truth that Jesus is God, and therefore that God is real. It has helped me to understand truth this way. Truth is what Jesus does, says, and sees. Let me remind you of what John said only a few verses earlier in verse 21. “But he who practices the truth comes to the Light, so that his deeds may be manifested as having been wrought in God.” The work of God in our hearts, which produces the life of Jesus in us, is the truth of God. It is what God does in us, therefore, we practice or live the truth. That's what it means to set our seal to the truth that Jesus is God and therefore the source of life. When Jesus testifies to our hearts about the truth that we are one with Him and He is our life, we live out the truth by abiding in Him. We come to the Light so that what He does, says, and sees may be revealed in our lives. Living to love with Jesus is the way we practice the truth and set our seal in this world to the reality that Jesus is God. Today, as we live to love with Jesus, we are showing the world that Jesus really is God. We have received Jesus' testimony. We want everyone to come to the knowledge of the truth that Jesus is God, has risen from the dead, and can live in them. I invite you to become a partner in our ministry. Would you pray about becoming a regular supporter of Elijah Ministries and the Live to Love with Jesus ministry? I hope you will receive the joy and benefit of “giving it forward,” so others may receive encouragement to turn their hearts to God and to live to love with Jesus. You may give online or send a check to the address listed at www.spiritofelijah.com/donate.

How can I recognize when God is speaking to me and go deeper in my relationship with Him?   In this message, Lead Pastor John Lindell shares a powerful message on how God draws near to us, just as He did to Moses through the burning bush, calling us to turn aside and go deeper with Him. You'll be encouraged to recognize God's presence in the supernatural moments of life and discover your true identity in worship and obedience.

How can I recognize when God is speaking to me and go deeper in my relationship with Him?   In this message, Lead Pastor John Lindell shares a powerful message on how God draws near to us, just as He did to Moses through the burning bush, calling us to turn aside and go deeper with Him. You'll be encouraged to recognize God's presence in the supernatural moments of life and discover your true identity in worship and obedience.

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Verse by verse study through the book of John Chapter Twenty and Verse Twenty Eight

Current Sermon Series At the End of the Day: 7 Questions for Mindful Living May 4 – June 22 The Apostle Paul once wrote, “Test yourselves to make sure you are solid in the faith. Don't drift along taking everything for granted. Give yourselves regular checkups. You need firsthand evidence… that Christ is in you. Test it out” (2 Corinthians 13:5, The Message). With those words, Paul urges us to take inventory of our lives daily—to “review the tapes” to see where we might have lived up to our faith, and where we might have fallen short. In this series, we'll put a new twist on an old form of prayer called “The Examen” which gives us a formula for intentional self-examination at the end of each day. How can we yield our own will to God's purposes if we are not conscious of our own shortcomings? How can we see where God has shown up in our lives if we do not reflect on the experiences and encounters of our day?  Join us as we explore 7 questions for honest self-examination at the end of our day.

A @Christadelphians Video: [Revealing] The Atonement – John Carter's Theological Masterpiece (1958)A Deep Dive into Biblical Sacrifice, Substitution, and Divine JusticeExplore John Carter's (1958) rigorous exposition on the Atonement—a foundational yet often misunderstood doctrine. This talk unpacks penal substitution, propitiation, and reconciliation with exegetical precision, offering theologians and serious students a systematic framework for Christ's atoning work.

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses John 10:1–21, emphasizing Jesus as the Good Shepherd who knows, nurtures, and lays down his life for his sheep. He contrasts Jesus with thieves, showing that, unlike them, Jesus sacrifices for his sheep and leads them with authority and care. Carson reflects on the practical implications of this metaphor for believers and church leaders, urging them to understand and follow Jesus's example.He teaches the following:The historical context of shepherding in the first-century Middle EastHow the metaphor of the shepherd is used to describe Jesus's relationship with his followersHow John 10 connects to Old Testament themes of shepherds and their roles, particularly Isaiah 56 and Jeremiah 23How the metaphor of the gate describes Jesus's role in leading and nurturing believersHow the metaphor of the shepherd illustrates the pastoral care that church leaders should provideThe key points of Jesus's relationship with his people: knowledge, nurturing, sacrifice, and transformation

For this year's Easter message, Pastor Eric takes the conversation about doubts and questions a step further by examining the disciple known as "Doubting Thomas" and shares how questioning God isn't such a bad thing after all.