Podcasts about god paul

In this episode we feature a talk by Paul Williams on Genesis 2. It's a talk concerning God's creation of men and women as HIs image bearers. Questions answered in this episode: - What is the image of God? - Are men and women different? - Why is not good for man to be alone? The Bible Matters Podcast is funded entirely by the generous donations of its listeners. If you would like to become a financial partner with us on this journey, you can give to the project on this link:  https://linktr.ee/BibleMatters Got a question about Genesis? Send us a message and we'll try and answer it in a video! To contact us, email office@biblematters.org

The foolishness of God- Paul reminded the Corinthian church that the cross of Jesus Christ was not just a superior philosophy. It may seem like foolishness to the world, but the message of the cross is the answer to the greatest need of all humanity. It is the power of God.

Connect with Paul Young:https://wmpaulyoung.com/Connect with Tyson:If you want to hear God more in your life, check out The Receive Academy: https://receiveacademy.com/Chapters:00:00 Introduction03:01 Hearing God in Everyday Life11:01 Trust and Fear in Decision Making14:24 Living in the Present Tense22:51 The Wedding at Cana: An Example of Divine Timing28:56 The Meeting Place Within31:10 Mentoring and Spiritual Practices32:55 Identity and the Court Jester42:53 Living in Participation53:44 The Sequel to The Shack55:10 Final Thoughts

Title: A Pastor's Hope Text: 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 FCF: We often struggle trusting the Lord to raise up godly attributes in us. Prop: Because godly pastors hope for what God promises to give His true children, we must have this hope for ourselves. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to 1 Thessalonians chapter 3. In a moment we'll begin reading in verse 11 from the Legacy Standard Bible. You can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. Last week we saw how Paul's pastoral concern was assuaged by the good news that Timothy brought back from his visit with the Thessalonians. Their faith, love, and hope were steadfast. But Paul, having a pastor's heart, and being a disciple maker like every other true believer, desired not only to fellowship with the Thessalonians again, but to minister to them and complete what was lacking in their faith. As we mentioned last week – the following two chapters seek to do just that. Paul isn't going to wait until they are together again before he begins to complete their faith. But today, before he gets to his teaching, and by way of introducing the things he wishes to teach them more about, he closes out this section of the book with what we call a benediction. The word benediction is the combination of two Latin words meaning “to speak well of” or “to speak good words.” Although we are studying an epistle, which is a genre in the bible that combines teaching and instruction in the form of a letter, a benediction is a subgenre used in many letters but not exclusively in letters. Aaron's blessing in Numbers 6:24-26 is an example of a benediction which occurs in the Pentateuch which is a blend of history, teaching, and law genres. So how do we study a benediction? Since it is a subgenre we must look at it in context of the main genre. In this case we will interpret these last three verses based on the context of the letter to the Thessalonians. But generally speaking, benedictions are a series of blessings, hopes, or prayers FOR God's people, expressed BY spiritual leaders, pleading TO God for His blessing, and designed as a comfort FOR God's people. As you can see, benedictions work on multiple levels. And today by God's grace we will see all these levels on display. So, without further ado, Please stand with me to focus on and give honor to the Word of God as it is read. Invocation: Great God and Father, Lord Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit and comforter, we come to You today to gather around Your Word. We do so, expecting You to bless us, change us, and refine us. We are but clay in Your hands. Mold us and shape us according to Your will. May we hope and desire the things You promise to give us so that we may hope rightly. Give us what You promise and help us to yearn for it too. We pray this in Jesus' name, Amen. Transition: [Slide 2] “Hope is faith in future tense.” Peter Anderson “'Hope is biblical shorthand for unconditional certainty.” John Blanchard “A man full of hope will be full of action.” Thomas Brooks “When you stop hoping you are in the vestibule of hell, for there is no hope there.” A.J. Cronin “The nearer to heaven in hopes, the farther from earth in desires.” William Gurnall Let us ponder these words as we look to the scriptures today. I.) Godly pastors hope for meaningful fellowship among believers, so we must have this hope for ourselves. (11) a. [Slide 3] 11 - Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus our Lord i. Notice first who Paul addresses this benediction to. ii. The reason I say benedictions have multiple layers is because Paul is obviously writing this to the Thessalonians. But in the middle of talking to them, he addresses two persons of the Godhead. iii. So, Paul speaks to God but through Him to the Thessalonians as well. iv. There is no doubt that this wish, this prayer, this hope, is designed to comfort them. v. Yet it is certainly a prayer to God. vi. Paul mentions two persons of the Godhead – The Father and the Son. vii. This alone requires some investigation. 1. First, we understand that Jesus is very clearly elevated to a position that is equal to the Father. a. Paul's trinitarian theology shines through as God the Father and Jesus our Lord are both prayed to in this text. b. Other than the order of their mention, there is no indication at all of any hierarchy or subordination here. c. And since Paul sometimes inverts this order, even this is not really an indication of hierarchy at all. d. In Paul's mind they are equal in power and glory. They are both deserving of hearing our prayers. 2. Second, Jesus is clearly understood here to be not only equal with the Father, but also Divine. a. He is not merely a human being elevated to the same status as God the Father, but is also the Lord. b. Specifically, the evangelists' and the Thessalonian church's Lord. c. Although Lord can be used to talk about someone that is a respected man, like a master of a slave, or a noble, it can also be used as a synonym for God. d. In this text, because Jesus is being prayed to, the most natural way to interpret the word Lord, is as if Paul is addressing the God of the Old Testament but applying that title to Jesus of Nazareth. 3. Third, I would very much like to address the conspicuous absence of the third person of the godhead. Unfortunately, it is a time-consuming venture that doesn't lead us to a definitive answer. So, I will save that discussion for Thursday Night prayer group and bible study. Be sure to join us as we discuss why Paul might have omitted the Holy Spirit from this benediction. viii. But what blessing does he seek for them? ix. This nicely divides up this morning's sermon into our three points. The points of Paul's requests. x. First, he requests that God… b. [Slide 4] direct our way to you, i. Paul's first desire, is the same desire he's been expressing since chapter 2. ii. He greatly desires to see them again face to face. iii. He desires fellowship. And He is praying that God's providence might guide him and his companions back to them soon. iv. This is certainly something that should be a good word for all God's people. To pray to God that God would allow us to direct our way to each other… this is a good word. A good wish. A comforting thought. c. [Slide 5] Summary of the Point: Paul hopes that the Lord will providentially direct him and his companions back to the Thessalonian church. In this we see a pastor's heart which hopes for meaningful fellowship to occur among believers. Paul desires to be among them and fellowship with them. He desires that fellowship among believers to be meaningful and frequent. So, Paul looks to the Lord in prayer, that God might direct them back to one another. If Paul desires this for himself among the Thessalonians, it is easy to see the application for ourselves. We too must earnestly desire and hope for this fellowship with other believers as well. Transition: [Slide 6(blank)] But this is not the only hope that Paul expresses in this benediction. Paul has two more requests of the Lord for the Thessalonians. Let's see what else he hopes for in verse 12. II.) Godly pastors hope that all believers will follow their example and abound in love for all, so we must have this hope for ourselves. (12) a. [Slide 7] 12 - and may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, i. Paul's second prayer request and hope for them is that the Lord causes them to love more. ii. By Lord Paul could be referring to any person of the godhead or to God the Triune. Contextually and theologically it makes the most sense though that he is referring to the demonstrator of love to us, the Lord Jesus Christ. iii. Paul's specific request is that they increase and abound in love. iv. By this Paul does not desire them merely to love incrementally more than they already do. v. Instead, he desires that they increase to the point of overflowing. That there be an abundance of love flowing from them, caused by God. vi. But what is the object of their abounding love in Paul's prayer? vii. First it is for one another. viii. By this he means the church there in Thessalonica. ix. Jesus Himself said that they will know that you are my disciples by your love for one another. x. By this we can conclude that one key evidence that grants assurance that we are indeed a true believer, is that we love others who are also true believers. xi. Paul then, is simply asking the Lord to cause this fruit of their salvation to manifest itself in abounding ways. xii. Paul will mention this in chapter 4 where he will teach on this topic with greater specificity. xiii. For now, it is a comfort to them to think of the Lord causing them to love each other in an abounding way. xiv. Because of the ostracizing of their unbelieving friends and family – this would certainly be a welcome thought. b. [Slide 8] and for all people, i. But thinking about the lack of love they were receiving from unbelievers may have prompted Paul to also pray that their love is not limited just to the church. ii. Paul prays that their love would abound… even for those who are not part of the church. Even for those who have afflicted them for their faith in Christ. iii. Paul prays for the Lord to increase their love – even for their enemies. iv. While it may gratify our flesh to hate our enemies… the spirit of a true believer would certainly be comforted by the hope that their love would abound, even for those who hate them. v. In this they know that they are following in their Savior's footsteps, as He too came and gave His life for sinners. Sinners who did not know God or seek Him. vi. Sinners like them. vii. This answers the object of their love and the magnitude of their love… but Paul desires to illustrate the love he prays for by using his own example. c. [Slide 9] just as we also do for you, i. When Paul and his companions arrived in Thessalonica, there were no friends for them. ii. They spent 3 weeks preaching in the synagogue with limited success. iii. Most of the Thessalonian church were former pagans, ignorant of the God Paul preached and the Savior He followed. iv. And as a reminder, Paul has just gotten through speaking of the intensity of the evangelists' love for this church and desire to be with them. v. Being imitators is a key theme in this book. vi. The Thessalonians were imitators of Christ and of the evangelists and others were imitating them. vii. Here Paul provides his and his companion's example as the pattern for the love he prays the Lord will cause to abound in them. viii. This would be yet another comforting thought for them. To be in such a place that their love for one another and for all people imitated the love the evangelists had for them. d. [Slide 10] Summary of the Point: Paul, using himself and his companions as an example, hopes that the Lord would cause to grow to an abounding degree the love that the Thessalonians have for one another and for all men. As a godly pastor, his life demonstrates this love and his heart desires it to be the same in every other believer. As such the application for us is easy to locate. All of us, no matter what role we play in the body of Christ, must hope to grow and abound in love for one another. We must hope to be an example to others of what abounding love for all looks like. Transition: [Slide 11(blank)] Paul has one final hope he prays for in this text. It is actually an expected and hoped for result of the love he has prayed for to grow in them. Let's look at verse 13. III.) Godly pastors hope all believers are perfected in holiness at Christ's return, so we must have this hope for ourselves. (13) a. [Slide 12] 13 - so that He may strengthen your hearts blameless in holiness, i. What result is Paul praying will happen because God caused their hearts to increase and abound with love for one another and all men? ii. In a word… holiness. iii. The first part of this verse is a little clunky. iv. If we were to read it literally it would be something like, v. “To the to strengthen your hearts blameless in holiness.” vi. The first two words, rather than meaning “to the” should be translated with language that expects a result. vii. In order that, so that, with the result of… viii. The verb strengthen is in its infinitive form. Which eliminates our ability to see who or what is doing the strengthening. ix. Most translations rightly pull the subject from the context which is obviously God Himself. x. Some translations try to leave it ambiguous by inserting a passive “that your hearts may be strengthened” making the subject uncertain. But there is no real reason to do this in the context. xi. It is clear that Paul means that God is doing the strengthening of their hearts. xii. If God is causing their love to abound, it certainly follows that as a result He will strengthen their hearts toward holiness. xiii. But the final expression deserves a closer look too. xiv. Being blameless in holiness seems to be redundant. If someone is holy, they certainly are blameless. And if someone is blameless, most likely they are holy. xv. So, what does this expression mean? xvi. Given what Paul will talk about in chapter 4, we can read between the lines that Paul is praying that their love for all men will strengthen them to forsake sexual immorality and maintain a pure life with one another. xvii. Although blamelessness in holiness certainly means more than merely godly sexual ethics – that is certainly included in it. xviii. Since a love for God and a love for others encapsulates all of the law and the prophets – to be truly set apart for God in a way that no one can find fault with – must flow from both a love for God and a love for all men. xix. But Paul may be indicating not merely a holy life that is practiced now, on earth. He may be also pointing beyond this life… b. [Slide 13] before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints. i. We return to the Father and the Lord Jesus as Paul bookends his benediction with His mention a second time. ii. Here we see that Paul prays for blameless holiness for the Thessalonians specifically before God at the second coming of Christ. iii. We know that next the Lord Jesus will come to judge the living and the dead. And so Paul may have his eyes on that final winnowing of genuine believers and pretenders. iv. His prayer then may not simply be that they are holy now – but that they might be strengthened for the time that they are truly perfected. v. Of course, chapters 4-5 include a good deal about the second coming of Christ. So, Paul alludes to that in this benediction as well. vi. One final thing to point out here that is actually somewhat off-topic, is a teaching regarding the end times. vii. Here we see Paul overtly point to the second coming of Christ being done “With all His saints” 1. There is a bit of an interpretational issue here that has commentators divided. 2. Paul seems to be quoting from Zechariah 14, which would tend to favor the idea of the word “saints” or “holy ones” meaning angels rather than people. a. But in the Old Testament the term “holy ones” or “saints” is rather ambiguous. Often it is clearly used to talk about angels and also often it is clearly used to talk about God's people. And of course, many times, it is unclear to which it is referring. b. However, the same is NOT true in the New Testament. Every single use of the term “holy ones” in the New Testament minus two are clearly referring to God's people and NOT to angels. c. Jude 14 could refer to angels, but it could just as easily refer to God's people. d. And here, is the only other unclear reference. e. Furthermore, Paul uses the term “holy ones” 43 times in his letters. In every other instance… he is referring to true believers. 3. Because of this I find the interpretation inescapable. Paul is referring either to God's elect people, or, perhaps, to God's elect people and angels. 4. Since the word saints, or holy ones means Christians we must deal with a spurious way the word is being used today. 5. Saints – is not a special term in the scriptures used to denote some upper class of Christians which have performed miracles or done especially wonderous things for God. Nor is sainthood ever granted or recognized by the church in the scriptures. a. That is literally never how the New Testament uses the word. b. The word itself means the same thing as holy mentioned previously in this verse. Holy means morally pure and set apart. c. Paul wishes that all of them be saints in that they are blameless in holiness. d. And the writer of Hebrews says that without that saintliness… without holiness – no one sees God. e. Saint then, or holy one, is merely another expression of a person who is a genuine believer. f. All believers are saints. And there are no qualifications for sainthood besides being a regenerated believer in Christ. 6. Now, interpreting this as God's people coming with Christ, does pose a bit of a problem interpretationally when it comes to the teaching of chapters 4-5 about the Lord's coming and how believers will meet Him in the air… but that is easily understood when we understand one common practice of the day. 7. When dignitaries or very important people would come to a city, the priests, the rulers, the authorities, the people of note in the city, would leave the city walls and come outside the city to meet the dignitary. Then they would follow him in. 8. Of course we are called a kingdom of priests, heirs to the throne, and the bride of Christ. 9. In this way, God's people can both meet Christ in the air and come with Him. 10. Of course, any Premillennial interpretation of the end times has no problem harmonizing these facts since they would all conclude that we go to meet Jesus and then return with Him when He comes to set up His earthly Millennial Kingdom. 11. We simply disagree on the timing of the return. 12. Postmillennial and Amillennial folks have more difficulty here. And many simply interpret this passage as referring to angels. viii. But coming back to the topic of Paul's wish here… ix. What a comforting thought for the Thessalonians. That the Lord would strengthen them to the level of blameless holiness that the Lord would require of all who might join Him at His return. c. [Slide 14] Summary of the Point: Paul's final hope for the Thessalonians is that the Lord would strengthen their hearts to not only live holy lives today, but that they would be perfected and presented faultless before God when Christ returns with all His people. Every godly pastor hopes for this to be true of their congregation. And as such, the application is clear for us too. We must hope that we will not only be holy now, but perfected in that holiness when the Lord returns. Conclusion: So CBC, what have we learned today that corrects and instructs our faith and shapes and guides our practice? Broad Concepts of Faith and Practice: [Slide 15] Paul expresses these good words for the Thessalonians as he prays to the Lord pleading for these three hopes for the them. He hopes that the Lord would providentially direct them to fellowship together again, that the Lord would cause their love to abound toward all, and that the Lord would strengthen their hearts in perfect holiness when Jesus returns. These amount to what every godly pastor hopes for and prays for, for his flock and all believers. As such these should be our hopes too for ourselves. We should hope that God allows us to fellowship with other believers often and in meaningful ways. We should hope that God causes us to grow and abound in love toward all men and especially those of the household of faith. And we should hope that God strengthens us to grow in holiness today so that when He returns and we return with Him, we should be found faultless and perfectly holy with Him. But how do these applications connect to our life today? Let me take a closer look with you. 1.) [Slide 16] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that God providentially directing His children to fellowship with one another often and in meaningful ways, should be a great comfort and hope to true believers. a. But we live in an increasingly individualistic society. b. People don't have to come to church anymore – they can just watch it on the internet. c. I even saw a church advertise that their wi-fi signal was so strong that it reached the parking lot. d. So, if you don't feel comfortable coming in, don't worry, just park in your car and tune in from the parking lot. e. Some have said, “I don't need the church, I have Jesus.” f. My friends, these are lies. g. You can't have Jesus without the church. And you can't have the church without Jesus. h. How can you say that? i. The Apostles taught that WE are the body of Christ. j. My friends, attending via facebook livestream is not attending. It is not fellowshipping. It is not corporate worship. It is not church. k. It'll do in a pinch when you are shut in or sick… but it isn't church. l. Listening to sermons and podcasts isn't the church either. m. Nor is chatting online with other believers or arguing in forums. n. Without the church, you are a rudderless ship. Without God's people ministering to you and you ministering to them, you are tossed around in the waves of the sea. o. True believers delight… hope for… and seek out fellowship with other believers. p. We thrive on it. We need it. q. Do you see fellowship with other believers this way? r. If not, its time to rethink some things. It may even be appropriate to ask yourself, if you are truly a believer. 2.) [Slide 17] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that God causing His children to grow and abound in love for one another and other men, should be a great comfort and hope to true believers. a. Along with our more individualistic society, we also have a love problem. b. From definition to object, from magnitude to demonstration, we have a love disease. c. Our definition of love is distorted. So much so that the unconditional undeserved love of God is often so foreign to us when we first hear of it. d. The object of our love is frequently enjoyed toward those who always agree with us or those who return the love we offer. Again, when we see the unconditional aspect of Christ's love for His church, in that while we were yet enemies, He died for us, that is so odd to us. e. The magnitude of our love is a paradox of over-loving things and practices, and under-loving and valuing people. “Save the whales” and “kill the children” are often said by the same lips. f. And if that wasn't bad enough, demonstrating love has been reduced to 5 languages, which is already an extrabiblical interpretation of demonstrating love, but when you give that to a person who is not a believer, it is weaponized for a way to get the kind of love they want, rather than teach them how to love others. g. So yes… we have a love problem. h. But the church… God's people… we should be different. i. We should be looking longingly for the day that God will cause the love we have toward others to abound. Specifically, and especially toward other believers. j. This coupled with the hope for fellowship only intensifies the need for Christians to give the church a much higher priority than they are giving it today. k. Of all the things people prioritize, I fear that gathering with God's people is often an afterthought… if it is a thought at all. l. But growing in and abounding in love for other Christians should be a great hope for those who are genuine believers. m. But our love is not so narrow. n. In fact, our selfless, unconditional love should also be pointed at those who are not believers too. o. We certainly remain guarded with unbelievers. We know they do not understand and will seek to harm us. And we don't need to intentionally leave ourselves open to their abuse. p. But we certainly do not retaliate in thought, word, or deed. q. Overall, growing and abounding in love for all men ought to be one of the greatest wishes of every true believer across the board. r. If you don't desire to love others more… you may need to do some soul searching. You may yet be lost after all. 3.) [Slide 18] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that God strengthening our hearts to holiness now and perfect holiness when Christ returns, should be a great comfort and hope to true believers. a. The bane of the accurate teaching of the free grace of God is the overcorrection into license. b. The logic sounds fairly sure. c. Christ died for sin. I am a sinner. Christ died for me. He paid for all my sin. Therefore, when I sin, I know it is already paid for. Therefore, there is nothing that needs payment. Therefore, I am free… I have been given a blank check to do as I please. d. This thought process has been attacking the church since the apostles' time. They all have written extensively on the matter. e. Paul writes in Romans the logic which concludes with – “Shall we sin then that grace may abound?” f. Paul answers his own question with the strongest negative answer that you can make in the Greek language. g. Mh genoito h. May it never be. Or May that idea never have existed or been born in your mind! i. God's grace and mercy do not allow true believers to continue in sin. Instead, His grace and mercy remind us how we are slaves to righteousness and to live according to His Spirit which is in us. j. Hebrews tells us that without holiness no one will see God. k. Holiness, moral purity and being set apart for God's service is part of the fabric of every true believer. l. We love and aspire to holiness. m. And we hope that one day, when the Lord Jesus returns, He will complete that process, purifying us forever, never to fail Him again! n. Certainly, the greatest part of that eternal Kingdom will be the fellowship with Christ. o. But John says that when we see Him, we will be like Him. p. This thought is a great hope of all true believers. One day, we will never sin again. q. But my friends, if there is a tinge of sadness in that for you. That one day you will never lie, cheat, steal, lust, be selfish, lack courage, or never dishonor your parents again… if such a thought produces in you a wistful longing and loss – then you must examine your heart. True believers hope for the day such a thing were true. r. Are you really His child? 4.) [Slide 19] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must find hope in God doing these things in us. a. We must realize that ultimately, true believers hope that the Lord will direct them to fellowship with God's people, to love more, and to grow in holiness. b. Any attitude or feeling that causes us to despise or become annoyed with any of these things, must be rejected as a sinful and fleshly attitude rather than a pure one. c. If we despise or are annoyed with the idea of fellowshipping more with God's people, we must repent of this and put this sin to death. d. If we roll our eyes or gag a bit at the thought of loving others more, we must repent of this and put this sin to death. e. If we are frustrated with or bothered by the thought of becoming more holy, more different and separated from the world, we must repent of this and put this sin to death. f. Because true Christians desire to be with God's people, grow in love, and holiness. g. How do we do all these? h. Well, if we go back to the text, we realize that not only is Paul asking this of God, but God is the agent working in all these things. i. God is providentially directing the fellowship. j. God is causing the love to grow and abound. k. God is strengthening the heart to holiness. l. God is, as always, our source. We run to Him for these things. Ultimately, we hope… in Him. 5.) [Slide 20] Comfort: “What comfort can we find here?” or “What peace does the Lord promise us in light of this passage of scripture?” True believers will see this prayer answered in their lives. a. Although Paul offers this as a hope and a wish, we know from the rest of scripture that God promises to do these things in the lives of true believers. b. God promises to bring His people together. c. God promises to grow us in love. d. God promises to grow us in holiness. e. Of course there is some human responsibility here. We must step out in faith to pursue fellowship, love, and holiness. f. But God promises that for real Christians… this will be done. g. No one will arrive with Christ with these hopes left unfulfilled. h. And that is a great comfort to us. 6.) [Slide 21] Evangelism: “What about this text points us to Jesus Christ, the gospel, and how we are restored?” Without the fellowship of the church, love like Christ, and holiness, no one will inherit the Kingdom of God. a. This, then, is nothing more than a logical conclusion. b. If God will do these things that Paul has prayed for in every believer… and the prayer itself is a comfort and a hope to God's true people… c. Then anyone who lacks these things cannot truly be a child of God. d. There is always room for growth of course. e. In fact, the hope of growth is part of this equation. We as true believers hope to have these things. f. But if you lack them completely, or have no hope that you would have them, or both… then you cannot possibly know Christ. And therefore, you are still lost in your sin. g. If that is you today. You don't desire to be with Christians. You don't really want to love people that don't already love you. You don't want to live differently and in a way that follows the commands of Jesus. h. But for the first time you've seen this, and genuinely desire that to change. i. I urge you to cry out to Jesus and repent of your sins and submit to Jesus as your Lord and Savior. j. And if you would like to do that today, please see me or another Elder. We'd love to help you through that process. [Slide 22 (end)] Let me close with a prayer by the early church father John Chrysostom Do not let us avoid the reading of the divine Scriptures, Lord. For that would be of Satan's devising, not wanting us to see the treasure, otherwise we would gain the riches. So, he would say that hearing the divine laws means nothing. Otherwise, if we did, we might become doers of the word, as well as hearers. Knowing then his evil plan, Lord, let us fortify ourselves against him on every side. Fenced with this kind of armor, we can live unconquered lives, as well as strike a heavy blow to his head. Then, crowned with glorious wreaths of victory, we can attain the good things to come, by the grace and love toward others of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory and might for ever and ever, amen. Benediction: Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus Christ our Lord direct our way to each other, And may the Lord cause us to increase and abound in love for one another and for all people, So that He may strengthen our hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His Saints. Until we meet again… go in peace.

Paul continues our advent series and looks at the irrefutable claim that Jesus is God - not just a nice guy or a great prophet.    Website: www.prayerhouse.uk Email: connect@prayerhouse.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/prayerhouseweymouth Instagram: www.instagram.com/prayerhouseweymouth Give : www.prayerhouse.uk/give

We rethink legacy through David's charge to Solomon, contrasting wealth with obedience, and explore how discipleship builds a living temple that outlasts money and monuments. We speak to those with complex family stories and offer hope, courage, and a clear next step.• repentance as daily recalibration toward God• Paul's “worst of sinners” as growing humility• David's lesson: victory from God, not numbers• success defined by obedience, not resources• legacy reframed from wealth to wisdom• discipling children as temple-building• Solomon's writings outlasting his riches• encouragement for absent or painful family stories• practical ways to pass on a spiritual inheritanceThanks for joining us in this conversation today, and we'll see you next timeSend Mike a quick message! (If you seek a reply, instead please contact through Outloudbible.com) Support the showCheck out outloudbible.com for helpful study resources, and to discover how to bring the public reading of God's word to your church, conference, retreat, or other event.

Farmers and horticulturalists seem to have a secret wisdom from God when it comes to partnering with seasons, weather conditions and the needs of their plants. We explore the mystery of God's processes in his dealings with us.   Website: www.prayerhouse.uk Email: connect@prayerhouse.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/prayerhouseweymouth Instagram: www.instagram.com/prayerhouseweymouth Give : www.prayerhouse.uk/give

Part 5 Of the many teachings contained in the Bible, there is one teaching that the Bible is unequivocal about and absolute in its declaration: there is but one true and living God.  Monotheism oozes out of every page of God's sacred record in both the Old and New Testaments.  Orthodoxy demands that the adherent of Christianity hold to the belief in the existence of only one God!!  Every prophet from Moses through to Jesus taught that there was but one God.  At first glance, it appears that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are on the same page.  However, as one begins to dig beneath the surface of its conventional publicity statements, one discovers layer after layer of heresy from the denial of the Trinity to the human anatomy of God the Father. If one is to understand the Mormon hope as it relates to eternity, one must first understand the particular God whom they serve.      Download teaching notes (pdf) https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/bethesdashalom/5_The_Doctrine_of_God.pdf

After spending the first three chapters of Romans uncovering the bad news—that every one of us stands guilty before a holy God—Paul finally turns the corner to share the Good News: we can be made right with God through faith in Jesus Christ. In this message, Pastor Rich unpacks what it means to be justified by faith, explores powerful words like justification and propitiation, and reminds us that salvation isn't earned by our performance, but received through belief. When we understand that, pride falls away, unity is restored, and faith takes center stage.Whether you're churched, unchurched, religious, or brand new to faith, this passage reminds us that the ground is level at the foot of the cross—and Jesus alone gets the glory.

As Christians, we are called to love others. The world has somewhat distorted the definition of love to mean accept, affirm, or make others comfortable. Today, Pastor Bill teaches that truly loving others means that… in his words, “There is a time to go Batman on somebody.” When you truly love someone, you desire to see them succeed and grow, and not just stay stuck in their sins. To be a Christian is to be an ambassador for Christ, and to be an ambassador is to make His Word known. 

As Christians, we are called to love others. The world has somewhat distorted the definition of love to mean accept, affirm, or make others comfortable. Today, Pastor Bill teaches that truly loving others means that… in his words, “There is a time to go Batman on somebody.” When you truly love someone, you desire to see them succeed and grow, and not just stay stuck in their sins. To be a Christian is to be an ambassador for Christ, and to be an ambassador is to make His Word known. 

Whenever you do an act of kindness, what's the mindset behind it? Do you minister to others for God, or do you minister to God? Those may sound similar, but maybe this will help. Imagine you work for a hotel as a greeter. Do you hold the door open for patrons on the company's behalf, or because you want to show them an act of kindness? In today's message, Pastor Bill teaches that, in the same way, you can either serve people for God or serve people to God. It's not just the actions you do, but the heart behind them.

Whenever you do an act of kindness, what's the mindset behind it? Do you minister to others for God, or do you minister to God? Those may sound similar, but maybe this will help. Imagine you work for a hotel as a greeter. Do you hold the door open for patrons on the company's behalf, or because you want to show them an act of kindness? In today's message, Pastor Bill teaches that, in the same way, you can either serve people for God or serve people to God. It's not just the actions you do, but the heart behind them.

Being one with God is what this is all about and what will lead the church to be who she was always meant to be. Paul takes us deeply into our union with Jesus.

In Part 2 of our deep dive into John chapter 2, we explore the process of transformation—and why it's so difficult. Transformation isn't instant. It's painful. And that's why John frames his Gospel with a call to zeal—a passionate commitment that carries us through the soul-wrenching work of becoming who God calls us to be. In this lesson, we explore: ✅ The Hebrew word qorban (offering) and its root qarab, meaning “to come near” ✅ How offering something valuable is the way we draw close to God ✅ Paul's teaching that we are the offering—a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) ✅ Why Paul uses Jesus's suffering, death, and resurrection as metaphors for spiritual formation ✅ What it means to undergo an ego death—putting to death the parts of us that no longer serve the goal of abiding with God This teaching emphasizes a powerful principle: “The more difficult the commandment, the greater the sacrifice it demands—and the closer it draws you to God.” To love your neighbor, forgive those who've hurt you, and pray for your enemies—these are not easy tasks. They demand the death of pride, bitterness, and self-justification. But in surrendering those parts of ourselves, we step into the resurrected life of Christ.

This week, Paul warns that even committed Christians can drift into practical atheism—living as if God doesn't exist—and urges believers, especially parents, to actively counter the culture's denial of God by faithfully influencing our children and our children's children.Join us for a weekly narration of Paul Tripp's popular devotional. You can subscribe to our email list to receive this devotional straight to your inbox each week, or read online at PaulTripp.com/Wednesday or on Facebook, Instagram, and the Paul Tripp App.If you've been enjoying the Wednesday's Word podcast, please leave us a review! Each review helps us reach more people with the transforming power of Jesus Christ.Voices of InfluencePaulTripp.com/Voices

It's an old thesis - that capitalism has created a religion out of money. But nobody, not even Marx, has been quite as theologically explicit as Paul Vigna, author of The Almightier: How Money Became God, Greed Became Virtue, and Debt Became Sin. The former Wall Street Journal reporter argues that money literally functions as our modern deity, complete with faith-based belief systems, sacred rituals of accumulation, and moral frameworks that equate wealth with divine favor. Tracing money's origins back 5,500 years to — surprise surprise — Mesopotamian temples, he reveals how what began as a practical accounting tool has evolved into humanity's central organizing principle. Unlike Marx's revolutionary critique of capitalist exchange, Vigna argues in favor of recalibration rather than outright destruction. Imagining money as a useful hammer rather than an almighty god, he questions why we chase dollars instead of human welfare, especially in a digital age when innovative new technologies could provide basic needs for everyone.1. Money literally originated in religious temples 5,500 years ago: "Money shows up first time about 5,500 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia, it is a product of temples. The temple in Uruk is where we find it and the temple scribes developed this system to keep track of the temple's possessions, which is called money."2. Money isn't "real" - it's a collective belief system based entirely on trust: "Money isn't real. Money is an agreement among people. When you talk about trust, we're all trusting in this system. It's a system that we all buy into."3. The Protestant Reformation transformed greed from sin into virtue: "Calvin says, God controls everything... So if you have money, you have it because God want you to have it. Therefore, if you become rich, God wanted you to become rich... you should work hard to make a lot of money because that's what God wants."4. We've confused the tool with the goal: "We could provide the basic needs for every single human being on the earth... And what I say is, we don't do that... because we still have this deeply embedded belief that money... we are chasing money, we are not chasing the thing that society is supposed to be set up to do."5. Bitcoin perfectly illustrates money-as-religion: "Bitcoin is absolutely a religion. It's got its own god in Satoshi Nakamoto... it is the most fascinating thing to watch because it really is, you saw a religion grow up around a monetary system."Keen On America is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit keenon.substack.com/subscribe

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In the final week of our series Honest To God, Paul unpacks the powerful message of Psalm 73, reflecting on Asaph's journey from envy and doubt to faith and trust in God. In this message Paul highlights how life's frustrations and unanswered questions can actually become the path to deeper faith. As Asaph's focus shifts - from others, to himself, to God - ours can too. Paul reminds us that God is good, faithful, and in control, even when life feels unfair. When we bring our doubts into God's presence, we don't receive judgment - we receive grace, guidance, and an eternal perspective that gives us lasting hope.

In every hero's journey, there are stages where you get to ‘meet the mentor'. They have specific wisdom and guidance that is invaluable for you to continue on your path and face the challenges that lay in front of you. Paul is one of those mentors, not just for me but for millions. Not only is his knowledge of the human body, psychic body, and emotional body as strong as anyone I have known…he has the wisdom to know that those are all the same thing. All different aspects of God.In this podcast he gives invaluable practicum about how to extract entities (and what entities actually are), do real shadow work, illustrate your own guiding myth, and come to know God. Check out his new release of Spirit Gym, which I got to see in action. Truly inspiring!URL: https://myspiritgym.comPromo code: AUBREY15 for 15% off any membership subscriptionConnect with Paul:Website | https://chekinstitute.com/paul-chek/Blog | https://www.paulcheksblog.com/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/paul.chek/?hl=enYoutube | https://www.youtube.com/@PaulChekLive/featuredListen to Living 4D with Paul Chek | https://chekinstitute.com/podcast/This episode is sponsored by►Korrect Energy | ⁠https://korrectlife.com/⁠►Love To The Seventh Power by Aubrey Marcus: https://chakaruna.com/collections/books►Metal Mark Golden Collectable Art |  https://mtlmrk.com/| Aubrey Marcus |Website | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/2GesYqi ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/2BlfCEO ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/2F4nBZk ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠X |  ⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/2BlGBAdAd⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the Aubrey Marcus newsletter:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.aubreymarcus.com/pages/email⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠To partner with the Aubrey Marcus Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the Aubrey Marcus podcast:iTunes | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/2lMZRCn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://spoti.fi/2EaELZO ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stitcher | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://bit.ly/2G8ccJt ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠IHeartRadio | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://ihr.fm/3CiV4x3 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Season 4, Episode 3 | Pastor Chad and Linnea Morris dive into Galatians 1:11–24, exploring the profound transformation of the Apostle Paul from a zealous persecutor of the church to a passionate preacher of the gospel. They reflect on the power of God's grace to interrupt and redirect lives, the significance of spiritual disciplines like prayer, and the importance of rooting our faith in the true gospel—not in people-pleasing or human traditions.

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Paul Holmes opens up our new series Honest to God , where we journey through Psalm 103, reflecting on our tendency to forget God's goodness in the busyness of life. In this message Paul shares personal stories and biblical truths that remind us of God's forgiveness, healing, redemption, and sustaining love. It's an invitation to pause, remember, and respond with gratitude.

Pakiramdam mo ba ay nawawalan ka na ng koneksiyon sa Diyos? ‘Sa gitna ng mga hindi kanais-nais na pinagdadaanan natin ngayon, makakasamba ka pa ba talaga sa Diyos? Muli nating ibalik ang sigla ng relasyon natin sa Kaniya at matuto tayong sambahin Siya kahit hindi natin gusto ang mga pangyayari sa buhay natin ngayon.Speaker: Ptr. Paul De VeraSeries: True WorshipScripture Reading: Psalm 73:1-28Watch The Full Message Here: https://go.ccf.org.ph/05042025Tag

This week, we'll hear another poem from Paul celebrating the radical ways God intervenes to rescue us from sin and darkness. Join us for a weekly narration of Paul Tripp's popular devotional. You can subscribe to our email list to receive this devotional straight to your inbox each week, or read online at PaulTripp.com/Wednesday or on Facebook, Instagram, and the Paul Tripp App.If you've been enjoying the Wednesday's Word podcast, please leave us a review! Each review helps us reach more people with the transforming power of Jesus Christ.

Passage: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9Sermon Notes:Vv. 1-2 The grace of God is what gives us the capacity to be generous in a depraved world. Vv. 3-5 The grace of God fuels a God-centered generosity Vv. 6-8 The grace of God redefines rich and poor Vv. 9 Jesus Christ is the source of all of God's generous grace To give please visit: wearetruelove.com/give Join TLC on our social media for updates!YouTube @truelovecommunity Facebook @truelovecommunityministry Instagram @truelovecommunity

Nakaramdam ka na ba ng matinding pagsisisi dahil sa mga maling nagawa? Ano nga ba ang pagkakaiba ng matinding pagisisisi (remorse) sa tunay na pagsisisi (repentance)?Sa tuwing tayo'y may nagagawa at alam nating ito'y mali, marahil tayo ay may pagsisisi ngunit walang aksyon. Sa kabilang banda, ang tunay na pagsisisi o 'repentance' ay ang kusang loob na paghingi ng tawad sa Diyos at pagkakaroon ng pagbabago hindi lang sa panlabas kundi pati na rin sa ating mga puso. Speaker: Ptr. Paul De VeraSeries: Real People, Real ImpactScripture Reading: Genesis 37:26–27, Genesis 44:18, 33-34,Matthew 27:3–5Watch The Full Message here: https://go.ccf.org.ph/03302025Tag

Follow my new podcast here: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | All platforms  This month, come join me each morning in a daily morning prayer & activation, designed to align your soul, mind, and body with the Infinite Spirit.

The Apostle Paul, the most influential missionary in church history, a man of unwavering faith and perseverance, openly confesses here that he was "pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life." This is not a casual statement. The Greek word for despaired (ἐξαπορέομαι, exaporeō) means to be utterly without a way out, completely at a loss, to feel trapped with no escape. This is deep affliction. This is the kind of suffering that pushes a person to the very brink. This is the kind of affliction that pushes a person to the edge where life itself feels like it is slipping away. This is the inspired Word of God - Paul is not exaggerating here. He is describing a moment in which he and his companions believed they were going to die. And yet, what do we see in this passage? That God had a purpose even in this depth of suffering—to strip Paul of all self-reliance and teach him to trust only in "God which raiseth the dead” (v.9). This passage is not just about suffering; it is about where we place our trust in suffering. Paul's affliction serves as a lesson for us: When we reach the end of our rope, the end of our strength, we discover the sufficiency of God's power. Let's examine four key truths from this passage that will help us understand how we, as believers, are to respond when we find ourselves despairing even of life. The Weight of Suffering The Purpose of Suffering The Power of Deliverance The Role of Prayer Contact us @ 4faithfoundations@gmail.com For more teaching, resources & helps visit our website @ faithfoundations.church

Hebrews 4:14-16 So much of contemporary Christianity is built on hype, but the problem with hype is that it gets you nowhere because hype has no foundation.  God has given us three-quarters of a million words of solid text upon which to base our confidence so that our faith is not found flapping in the wind.  In this sermon, we consider Jesus as our High Priest and the promise that is given us to come boldly to the throne of grace to obtain mercy and find help in times of need.

Exodus 15:11 If ever there was an aspect of God's character that desperately needs to be rediscovered among the ranks of Evangelicalism in our day, it is the holiness of God!! We've lost the fear of God in the house of God because we've no comprehension of the holiness of God!  We've grown accustomed to the familiar because we've lost the sense of reverence and awe in the handling of the things of God.   Can I remind you that the God with whom we have to do is HOLY?  He does not fall into the category of the common — He CAN'T!  He's totally and utterly removed from every created thing in the universe, including the universe itself, because He's altogether of a different KIND!!  Humans belong to the humans kind and animals, the animal kind; there is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars — there is the glory of the angelic host, and then there is the glory of God!!!  Tell me, what other “kind” can we place in the category of God?  HE EXISTS IN A CATEGORY ALL OF HIS OWN!!!  “Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?” (Ex. 15:11). 

That's a powerful perspective—Failure is Progress—especially when viewed through the lens of our Christian walk and God's will. In our journey of faith, failure isn't the opposite of progress; it's often a crucial part of it. The Bible is filled with stories of people who stumbled, failed, and yet grew closer to God through those very experiences. Think about Peter denying Jesus or Moses' reluctance—their failures didn't disqualify them; rather, they were stepping stones in God's plan for them.   1. Failure Reveals Our Dependence on God Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 12:9: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." When we fail, we realize we can't rely on our own strength—we need God. Failure humbles us and draws us closer to Him. 2. Failure Refines Our Character James 1:2-4 encourages us to consider trials as joy because they produce perseverance. Failure teaches us patience, endurance, and wisdom, molding us into who God wants us to be. 3. Failure Redirects Us to God's Will Sometimes, failure is God closing a door to guide us toward the right one. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in the Lord and not lean on our own understanding—our missteps can actually be divine redirections. 4. Failure Prepares Us for Greater Purpose Peter denied Jesus three times—a massive failure—but Jesus restored him, and Peter later led thousands to Christ (John 21:15-17, Acts 2). God often allows failure as preparation for something bigger. 5. Failure Strengthens Our Testimony When we fall and get back up with God's help, our story becomes a testimony to His grace. Romans 8:28 reminds us that God works all things for good for those who love Him. Even our mistakes can glorify Him. So if you're feeling like you've “stepped on your own toe” spiritually, remember—failure isn't the end. It's part of God shaping you, teaching you, and leading you into a deeper relationship with Him.

Send us a textToday, we discuss Paul's last missionary journeyCheck us out atgraceintheshadowsor.orgdrjonathan@graceintheshadowsor.org(251) 244-4645*If you are searching for a clinical counselor and you live in Alabama, Virginia, or North Carolina, Dr. Jonathan Behler would be happy to see you as a client! He does all counseling virtually through a secure portal. He will also work with you on payments - don't let finances keep you from getting counseling!If you live out of the US or not in Alabama, Virginia, or North Carolina, Dr. Jonathan Behler is an ordained minister and trained in pastoral counseling. If you are seeking pastoral counseling, please reach out as well!Support the show

In this episode, Brian Miller, Executive Director of Coach Approach Ministries, sits down with Paul Burns, author of the new book Spiritual Intelligence: Becoming Spiritually Intelligent – Nine Paths Toward Your Most Loving Self. Together, they explore the intersection of spiritual intelligence, emotional health, and attachment theory, diving into what it means to develop a Christ-centered approach to becoming one's most loving self. Paul shares personal experiences, insights from his coaching practice, and practical guidance on how we can cultivate a secure attachment to God, which fosters both spiritual and emotional growth. Key Topics Discussed: 1. Spiritual Intelligence – A Christ-Centered Approach:    - Paul introduces spiritual intelligence as the integration of emotional intelligence and attachment to God.    - He explains how this approach goes beyond emotional intelligence, focusing on developing a loving, Christ-centered presence in every interaction.    - By addressing the instinctual needs for self-defense or attack, spiritual intelligence helps individuals become more grounded and loving. 2. Attachment Theory and Relationship with God:    - Paul delves into attachment theory, explaining how it helps us understand our relationships with others and God.    - He highlights the significance of having a secure attachment to God, which builds confidence and resilience in spiritual growth.    - Brian shares his personal experience of overcoming insecurity by fostering a deeper attachment to God, thanks to the guidance and practices from Paul's book. 3. Non-Anxious Presence (Self-Differentiation):    - Paul unpacks the concept of self-differentiation, or maintaining emotional boundaries while staying empathetic and engaged.    - This is crucial for leaders, as it helps them stay calm and grounded while guiding others, without getting overwhelmed by others' emotions.    - Paul shares practical strategies for lowering anxiety, which fosters deeper empathy and a healthier presence in relationships and leadership roles. 4. Empathy, Busyness, and Leadership:    - Paul emphasizes the importance of empathy in leadership and relationships, noting that busyness is often the greatest enemy of empathy.    - He explains how being in a hurry can disconnect us from others and blind us to their needs, while slowing down makes us more present and compassionate.    - Being interruptible, as Jesus often was, is key to fostering a loving and empathetic presence in everyday interactions. 5. Practical Applications for Leaders, Pastors, and Coaches:    - Paul shares personal stories from his journey as a father, spouse, and leader, emphasizing the transformative power of spiritual intelligence.    - The episode offers insights for leaders, pastors, and ministry coaches on how they can apply spiritual intelligence to create secure, empathetic environments for those they serve.    - Paul invites listeners to explore his book, Spiritual Intelligence, and take the GPS Spiritual Inventory available on his website, soul-metrics.com, for further personal and spiritual development. This episode is packed with practical tools and spiritual wisdom for anyone looking to become a more loving, empathetic, and spiritually grounded leader or individual. Tune in next week for another episode packed with practical insights for coaches! Subscribe & Connect: Website: CoachApproachMinistries.org LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/coach-approach-ministries Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coach.approach.ministries Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@coachapproachministries7538 Email: info@coachapproachministries.org  

Today, we discuss many hot button topics: Why we aren't "gods" Paul calls himself a slave of God Paul says not to judge, but then how do you explain other verses where Paul says to judge? 2 types of legalism: Liberal legalism and Conservative legalism Why legalism makes us arrogant   Hey! Don't go away yet! Also check out these other P40 sites:  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnh-aqfg8rw Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries  Website - https://www.p40ministries.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p40ministries  Contact - jenn@p40ministries.com  Rumble - https://rumble.com/c/c-6493869  Books - https://www.amazon.com/Jenn-Kokal/e/B095JCRNHY/ref=aufs_dp_fta_dsk  Merch - https://www.p40ministries.com/shop  YouVersion - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/38267-out-of-the-mire-trusting-god-in-the-middle    Support babies and get quality coffee with Seven Weeks Coffee  https://sevenweekscoffee.com/?ref=P40   This ministry is only made possible due to your generous support https://ko-fi.com/p40ministries

Today we're celebrating 37 years of ministry in Tahlequah Oklahoma! Join Pastor Allen Nolan for a brand-new sermon series on the life and ministry of the Apostle Paul! Paul was a monumental figure in the early church and wrote 13 of the 27 New Testament Books of the Bible (14 if you count the book of Hebrews). Apart from Jesus, no other person has been as influential in forming the doctrinal views of Christianity. Paul has been referred to as the 2nd Founder of Christianity (with Jesus being the first). In this sermon, Pastor Allen explores the early life of the Apostle Paul, and why his life is worth learning about.

Revelation 7:9-17

Revelation 7:9-17

A montage for the ages as Tommy Olson wins his Initials Tournament first-round game. Terry Kiser was in studio and everyone loved him. And don't look now, but football is back, baby!

I'm so glad you've joined me at the intersection of faith and true crime here at The Unlovely Truth. Security issues are hiding in every church - do you know where to look for them? I'm your host, church safety coach Lori Morrison. Our churches need to be the safest places in our communities, so our mission here is to find actionable steps that will make our churches sanctuaries of physical, emotional, and spiritual safety. To give you tools to help make that happen in your church, we're going to investigate real crime stories from real churches. I've got three cases for us to investigate today, so let's dive right in.    Highlights from this episode include: Texas mega-church pastor Robert Morris's resignation Judge criticizes church over their handling of predatory volunteer A different church has a wonderful response to handling predatory pastor    Act 14:8-11 NIV   In Lystra there sat a man who was lame. He had been that way from birth  and had never walked. He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him,  saw that he had faith to be healed and called out, “Stand up on your feet!”  At that, the man jumped up and began to walk. When the crowd saw what Paul had done,  they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!”   I'll bet most of you recognize this story, and some of you even have the kid's Sunday School song about it running through your head now. I want us to focus less on the healing and more on what the people's reactions are. They immediately wanted to worship Paul, and Barnabas who was with Paul, as gods themselves instead of praising the God Paul and Barnabas served.    Don't we still do that today? I see and share so many stories of leaders in the church who have fallen, and yet they are treated like they are the ones who are victims. They need to be held accountable. But what about us? So here is a question I think we all should ask ourselves: do we bear some responsibility when we place leaders on pedestals and refuse to believe they could commit evil and even predatory acts?    I hope you'll email me or reach out on social media to let me know what you think! I love it when people are willing to have hard, but impactful conversations that strengthen physical, emotional, and spiritual safety at the intersection of faith and true crime   Visit my website to access more episodes. If you would like to contact me about booking me as a speaker, or ask about my consulting services, please email me at lori@theunlovelytruth.com.    Ways you can support the work of The Unlovley Truth:   Share the episode    Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn    Check out my Amazon Author Page to find resources on personal safety, and safety training for churches.    Robert Morris resigns, church leader responds   Judge takes pastor to task   Story where church get it right

Pastor Paul reflects on Acts 17:23, where Paul the Apostle addresses the Athenians' worship of an "unknown god," urging us to recognize and name the divine presence that already exists in our lives, from moments of sorrow to joy. He challenges us to see God not as a distant entity but as a present reality woven into our everyday experiences.

How Important is the love of God? Brother Paul Blair looks at this question in the Sunday morning message at Bethlehem. In this message entitled “The Love of God”, the annual meeting was concluded. 05.05.24.The.Love.of.God.Paul.Blair

Sa pagsamba sa Diyos, ayaw Niya ‘yung tira-tira lang ang ihahandog mo sa Kanya. Nais Niya ay buong puso mo! Paano natin malalaman kung ang binibigay nating pagsamba sa Diyos ay lumuluwalhati sa Kanya?

Paul is one of the most accomplished people in the history of the world, and yet he never boasts of his successes. Instead, he boasts of his weaknesses and, more importantly, how he experienced God within them. In this sermon, we look at the importance of weaknesses, how God uses them in our lives, and how he uses them — for us and for the world. Key Verses: 2 Corinthians 12:2-10  

Listen in as Pastor Paul shares a powerful message about God's open invitation to work alongside us, no matter our flaws. Learn how our weaknesses are simply a gateway to a deeper, more authentic bond with the Creator who cherishes us just as we are.

Speaker - Paul Bergin Message - Grumbling About God "I Said Yes To Jesus" - Click Here! The Belonging Cø • Nashville, TN USA For the latest on what's happening at church, visit thebelonging.co Watch live services here, or on our Facebook page or the TBCØ App!