Podcasts about gospel god

In this episode of Outlaw God, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith explore Martin Luther's idea of the "conjunction of the incompatible," showing how Christ unites Himself to sinners not after they become holy, but while they are still completely sinful. They contrast this Gospel-centered understanding with views that make Jesus primarily an example to follow, emphasizing instead that Christ gives Himself fully through preaching and the sacraments to forgive sins and create faith. Looking at Psalm 51, they reveal how David's story points to the heart of the Gospel: God's grace comes to those who are utterly undeserving, joining the Holy One to the unholy through Christ alone. More from 1517: Give to the June 1517 Podcast Network Fundraiser! Learn more about the 1517 Podcast Network Fundraiser 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education New Books from 1517 Publishing: By Water and the Word by Brian Thomas Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson Follow 1517:  Instagram X/Twitter Facebook  

A Christadelphian Video:Abraham believed in the Gospel: the Bible establishes the links between his beliefs and the first century teachings of Christ and the Apostles. This reveals consistence between the old and new testament, establishing the principle themes of the Gospel -- God's kingdom on earth, ruled by an heir of Abraham and David, forever. See the worksheet here. https://originalgospelblog.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/abraham-worksheet.pdfVisit https://originalgospel.blog/ for more blogs on key Bible Subjects

In the final session of this Luke 15 series, we move beyond the surface of the parables and into the very heart of the Gospel: God wants you. Through the stories of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son, Jesus reveals not a distant God who merely tolerates people, but a loving Father who pursues, sacrifices, waits, welcomes, and restores.This lesson examines the compassion of Jesus toward sinners, the dangers of Pharisaical pride, and the invitation for believers to reflect the heart of the Father in how we respond to broken and wandering people today. Drawing connections to the woman caught in adultery, the sinful woman who washed Jesus' feet, and the open-ended conclusion of the prodigal son story, this class challenges us to move beyond intellectual religion into transformational love and grace.Luke 15 is not just about being lost and found—it is about a Father who runs toward His children, catches them before they fall, and never stops wanting them home.  

Jesus Followers Have the Important Gospel Communication Tool – Their Life in Christ Lets Others See Jesus in Them MESSAGE SUMMARY:  In 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, Paul writes a complex statement that tells you, as a follower of Jesus, about the most important tool that God gives you for communicating the Gospel -- God lets others see Jesus in you through your life in Christ! Therefore, by living in Christ, your life becomes the most compelling argument for the Gospel – an argument that far surpasses written or spoken words. Paul's 2 Corinthians 3:12-18 text reads: “Since we have such a hope, we are very bold, not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face so that the Israelites might not gaze at the outcome of what was being brought to an end. But their minds were hardened. For to this day, when they read the old covenant, that same veil remains unlifted, because only through Christ is it taken away. Yes, to this day whenever Moses is read a veil lies over their hearts. But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”. Do others, from your life, see Jesus in you?   TODAY'S PRAYER: Father, I confess that when difficulties and trials come into my life, large or small, I mostly grumble and complain. I realize the trials James talks about are not necessarily “walls,” but they are difficult to bear, nonetheless. Fill me with such a vision of a transformed life, O God, that I might actually consider it “pure joy” when you bring trials my way. I believe, Lord. Help my unbelief. In Jesus' name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 94). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Insensitivity. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Gentleness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Isiah 35:1-9; John 1:14; Isaiah 11:1-2; Psalms 44b:14-26. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “The Day of Pentecost – The Promise Fulfilled” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Why do so many Christians still struggle with insecurity, fear, shame, loneliness, and spiritual exhaustion… even after coming to Jesus? In this deeply powerful message from Ephesians 1, Pastor Ken Senchal reveals one of the most transformational truths of the Gospel: God didn't just forgive you — He adopted you into His family. Many believers know they are saved, yet still live with the mindset of spiritual orphans: • constantly insecure • afraid of rejection • distant from God • performing for love • disconnected from biblical community But through Jesus Christ, believers are welcomed into the family of God as sons and daughters with an eternal inheritance. In this message, Pastor Ken unpacks: • What it means to be adopted by God • The inheritance believers have in Christ • The role of the Holy Spirit as God's guarantee • Why relationship with God matters more than religious routine • How believers can stop living like slaves and begin walking confidently as children of God • Why isolation weakens spiritual growth • The importance of biblical community and fellowship This message is filled with biblical truth, hope, healing, and encouragement for anyone struggling with identity, fear, purpose, shame, or feeling far from God. Scripture References: Ephesians 1 Romans 8:17 Revelation 21–22 If this podcast encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope today. Be sure to follow, rate, and review the podcast so more people can discover the life-changing truth of Jesus Christ. To learn more about OneChurch visit: www.youronechurch.com

In Episode 53 of Contemplata, A Word of Love, we reflect on the truth at the heart of the Gospel: God loves us with an everlasting love. Drawing from Sacred Scripture, this meditation invites listeners to receive the Word of God not merely as information, but as nourishment for the soul.As fear, anxiety, and distraction fill our daily lives, Fr. James Brent, O.P. calls us back to the Cross and to the living Word that reveals the mercy, tenderness, and love of God. Through passages from Scripture and the witness of Mary, who pondered the Word in her heart, this episode encourages us to meditate deeply on the love God pours into our souls through Christ and the Holy Spirit.A contemplative reflection on faith, Scripture, and the healing power of divine love.Follow us on:Instagram: ​​​​@contemplatapodcastYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/DominicanFriarsMediaSupport: If you want to support this podcast, please visit dominicanfriars.org/contemplata

April 21, 2026JOE OWEN,a 3rd generation missionary & theSpanish Ministry Manager for theministry of Creationist apologist,Ken Ham, “Answers in Genesis”,teaching @ various Bible institutes,seminaries & universities, & speak-ing throughout Latin America &Europe, who will address:“SEX, GENDER & the GOSPEL:GOD's DESIGN in a CONFUSEDWORLD” Subscribe: iTunes TuneIn Android RSS Feed Listen:

A SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM STEPHANIE:I want to share a special invitation with you. You may have heard that I will be releasing my first book with IVP on July 28, 2026. It's a big deal and I am so overwhelmed with God' goodness in allowing me to share such an essential message about delighting in Him as the true essential foundation for all our spiritual growth and maturing. Truly, when we delight in the Lord, He promises to give us the desires of our hearts – namely, more of Himself!So, here's the invitation. If you feel this message is indeed important, and you know people – including yourself perhaps – who need to be encouraged to awaken and cultivate their delight in God, would you consider joining my book launch team? It's a great and super easy way to share the good news of God's love for us in Christ, Jesus, our Lord.**If you're interested, please go to gospelspice.com/awakendelight and find the section about joining the launch team, or email me at contact@gospelspice.com **Together, let's encourage everyone we know with the wonderful news that, in Christ, God delights in us and invites us to delight in Him!The Gospel of Luke reads like a carefully composed symphony—each movement swelling toward the unveiling of the One who enters history in vulnerability and moves inexorably toward glory. If Matthew emphasizes fulfillment and Mark pushes us into urgency, Luke invites us into wonder. His narrative carries the pulse of a journey: from manger to mountain, from obscurity to acclaim, from rejection to radiant triumph. Luke places Christ before us not as an idea or an abstraction but as the God who steps into time, wrapping divine majesty in mortal frailty so that human beings might step into the life of God. Christianity is not good advice but good news—news of a God who does for us what we could never do for ourselves. Luke gives us that news with astonishing clarity.So, in this final episode in our series "from birth to glory" rooted in the Gospel of Luke, Stephanie gives us a wider-lens perspective on the entire book.MORE ABOUT THIS GOSPELThe Gospel of Luke is the story of a God who steps into His own world and walks its roads from the vulnerability of birth to the radiance of resurrection. Luke writes with a historian's care and a pastor's imagination, drawing us into a journey where every scene glints with the surprising ways God works: glory wrapped in humility, authority expressed through compassion, victory accomplished through sacrifice.The story opens in obscurity—an elderly couple awaiting a child, a young girl in an unnoticed village, shepherds startled by angels. These early chapters announce the pattern that will shape the entire Gospel: God approaches the lowly to raise them, and nothing in His kingdom moves according to human rank.Jesus' ministry unfolds as a kingdom breaking into the present. He proclaims freedom, heals the broken, and welcomes the estranged. His parables expose the heart; His miracles reveal a power that restores rather than destroys. Yet even as crowds gather, He sets His face toward Jerusalem, showing that His mission does not culminate in applause but in a cross.Luke follows Jesus into that final week—into confrontation, betrayal, agony, and an execution that paradoxically becomes the moment of enthronement. The crucified King forgives His enemies, welcomes a dying criminal, and bears judgment so His people may know peace. But death does not end His story. On the third day, Jesus rises, walks with the disillusioned, opens Scripture with burning clarity, and reveals a kingdom that cannot be contained by tombs.Luke closes with ascension, not farewell—Christ lifted in blessing, reigning in glory, sending His people into the world with news of forgiveness and hope.This Gospel invites you into that journey: to see the world remade through the One who descended for us and now reigns for us.----DISCOVER THE GOSPEL SPICE MINISTRIES BEHIND THIS EPISODEIf you enjoyed this episode, we invite you to discover more about how God is at work at Gospel Spice Ministries, and even to join in His work! There are 3 easy ways to do that:PLAY IT FORWARD by SHARING the show with friends and family: https://www.podcastics.com/podcast/38/link/PAY IT FORWARD by supporting us financially: gospelspice.com/payitforwardPRAY IT FORWARD by praying for us and those you share it with!Go to gospelspice.com for more info about Gospel Spice Ministries, the umbrella ministry over the podcast. You will discover our partners and the various services we offer, such as in-depth Bible studies with interactive conversation groups, a couple of times a year. Go to gospel-spice.com (with a "dash"!) to join the Gospel Spice Podcast community and interact with us!Contact us on the website or at contact@gospelspice.com to send us your prayer requests (we pray for you as a team every week!) and let us know how we can come alongside you.We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blogIdentity in the battle | Ephesianshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/Malachi: Messenger to Messiahhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/Wisdom from the Book of Proverbshttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebratedhttps://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

In a culture where the temperature on faith and sexuality is often "turned up to 1000 degrees," Pastor Mike continues the five-week series, "God, LGBTQ, and You," by focusing on the second greatest commandment: Love your neighbor as yourself.Building on last week's message about loving God most, this sermon explores what it means to truly love our neighbors in the midst of a polarizing cultural divide. Drawing from Matthew 22, Pastor Mike challenges the "conditional view of love" that often plagues both religious and secular communities. The big idea is simple but transformative: followers of Christ are called to love all our neighbors a lot—not just some of them, and not just a little.Through the examples of the woman at the well, the self-righteous Pharisees, and the tax collector Zacchaeus, we see a Jesus who was "so approachable and loving" that it confused the people around Him. He didn't lead with a ledger of mistakes; He led with countercultural love. Most importantly, the sermon highlights the heart of the Gospel: God demonstrated His love for us by dying for us "while we were still sinners"—not after we had everything figured out.

Bob Strader. John's Gospel sermon series. Mar. 22, 2026. Christ Community Church: https://www.cccfamily.org. Watch online: https://www.youtube.com/user/CCCFamilyArlingtonTX

Speaker: David BurdisDate:  22/3/2025,Title: The Gospel: God's Power to Save,Bible Passage: Romans 1:16-17,Series: Romans | Right with God,https://richmondanglican.com.au/

In this episode, we step into the vivid and surprisingly medical world of Hosea 6:1–6, where Israel's unfaithfulness is not treated primarily as a legal violation, but as a condition—a sickness that has left God's people wounded, struck, and in need of healing and restoration.Through Hosea, God portrays himself not as a distant judge, but as a skilled craftsman and healer. Like a stone mason working with hammer and chisel, God makes deliberate contact with Israel. The sharp words of the prophets function like cutting tools—painful but purposeful. These words cut deep and expose the corruption deep within - whatever does not reflect God's design. Even his judgment functions to point Israel along the path of renewal nd restoration - it's not merely punitive.At the heart of this strategy is God's unwavering commitment to stay with Israel, which is illustrated by Hosea marrying a prostitute. Hosea names the goal of this divine nearness as ḥesed—a loyal, faithful, loving relationship marked by intimacy and covenant devotion. When God declares, “I desire mercy and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings,” he is rejecting external ritual in favor of internal transformation. From there, we move to Matthew 9:9–13, where Jesus famously quotes Hosea: “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” Spoken in response to Pharisees scandalized by his table fellowship with tax collectors and sinners, Jesus' words are not a proof-text—they are a self-revelation. Jesus is claiming to embody the very strategy God revealed through Hosea.By drawing close to the unfaithful, Jesus acts as the physician Hosea anticipated—the one who comes near the wounded and the sick to bring healing. His presence among sinners is like a divine medicine. He is embodying hesed love and faithfulness because that is the very thing he wants in return. Like God's dealings with Israel, Jesus' decision to faithfully attach with the "unfaithful" is meant to cultivate faithfulness in them.We close with the good news at the center of both Hosea and the Gospel: God does not respond to our unfaithfulness by creating distance. Instead, he comes closer. He binds himself to us, works patiently with our fractures, and heals us into covenant love. The God revealed in Hosea is the God revealed in Jesus—the one who heals us from our sins by staying with us until wholeness takes root.Key Passages: Hosea 6:1-6Matthew 9:9-13Explainer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Video⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on how to use ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.biblehub.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.blueletterbible.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leave us a question or comment at our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website podcast page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Why Love Is the Foundation of the Christian Faith | Biblical Truth Every Believer Must Know Part 1 In Part 1 of this foundational teaching, Stephen Lewis unpacks why love must be the foundation of every true follower of Jesus Christ. In a world full of noise, division, and distractions, this episode calls believers back to the heart of the Gospel—God is love, and everything we do as Christians must flow from that truth. Using powerful Scriptures like John 3:16–17, Romans 5:8, 1 John 4, and Matthew 22:37–40, Stephen walks listeners through what it really means to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind—and how that love should visibly radiate through our homes, relationships, and daily lives. This episode challenges believers to: Build their faith on a biblical foundation of love Stop letting the world shape their attitudes and reactions Allow the Holy Spirit to produce peace, joy, and Christlikeness Love people without compromising truth Represent Jesus well in chaotic times If you desire to grow deeper in your walk with Christ and live a faith that genuinely reflects Jesus, this message will encourage, correct, and strengthen you. #ChristianLove #BiblicalLove #LoveAsAChristian #ChristianFaith #BibleTeaching #FaithInJesus #JesusChrist #ChristianLiving #BiblicalTruth #Discipleship #ChristianYouTube #ChristianTeaching #GodIsLove #FaithBasedContent #BibleStudy

“Free will” is not a phrase found in the Bible. The concept seems to have been brought into Christian theology by the church father Tertullian (160–240), who likely borrowed it from Stoic philosophy. Augustine (354–430) wrote a treatise called "On Free Choice of the Will" early in his career but altered some of his views later, which led to much debate and confusion on the issue throughout the Middle Ages. The Roman Catholic Desiderius Erasmus (1466–1536) wrote a treatise on free will against Martin Luther, to which Luther replied with his "Bondage of the Will" in 1525. The second article of the Formula of Concord upholds Luther's biblical teachings on free will but also clarifies misunderstandings about Luther's teachings that had persisted in the decades after 1525. The central question of this article is: After the fall, what are unregenerate human beings able to do, from their own will and intellect, toward their conversion and regeneration? (See FC SD II 2.) The answer logically follows from the preceding article on original sin, which exposes us as guilty, condemned sinners under God's wrath. Until the Holy Spirit converts us to Christ, we are powerless to enter a saving relationship with God or even prepare ourselves to receive God's grace. This teaching also safeguards the truth of the Gospel: God does everything necessary to save us and we, by faith, receive His salvation totally as a gift. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the February 2026 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Article II: Free Will” on Article II in the Formula of Concord. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Following the Formula” and will walk through the Formula of Concord in the Augsburg Confession. Follow along every month! Before starting this study, it may be helpful to read FC Ep II on Free Will (p. 477–479 in Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions, CPH 2005). Or follow along with the full Formula of Concord monthly reading plan at witness.lcms.org/reading-plan. Listen to the Coffee Hour episode with Rev. Brady Finnern on Article II at kfuo.org/2025/02/03/coffee-hour-020425-free-will-in-the-formula-of-concord, and find correlating Concord Matters episodes at kfuo.org/formulaofconcord. Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness.

“Free will” is not a phrase found in the Bible. The concept seems to have been brought into Christian theology by the church father Tertullian (160–240), who likely borrowed it from Stoic philosophy. Augustine (354–430) wrote a treatise called "On Free Choice of the Will" early in his career but altered some of his views later, which led to much debate and confusion on the issue throughout the Middle Ages. The Roman Catholic Desiderius Erasmus (1466–1536) wrote a treatise on free will against Martin Luther, to which Luther replied with his "Bondage of the Will" in 1525. The second article of the Formula of Concord upholds Luther's biblical teachings on free will but also clarifies misunderstandings about Luther's teachings that had persisted in the decades after 1525. The central question of this article is: After the fall, what are unregenerate human beings able to do, from their own will and intellect, toward their conversion and regeneration? (See FC SD II 2.) The answer logically follows from the preceding article on original sin, which exposes us as guilty, condemned sinners under God's wrath. Until the Holy Spirit converts us to Christ, we are powerless to enter a saving relationship with God or even prepare ourselves to receive God's grace. This teaching also safeguards the truth of the Gospel: God does everything necessary to save us and we, by faith, receive His salvation totally as a gift. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the February 2026 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Article II: Free Will” on Article II in the Formula of Concord. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Following the Formula” and will walk through the Formula of Concord in the Augsburg Confession. Follow along every month! Before starting this study, it may be helpful to read FC Ep II on Free Will (p. 477–479 in Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions, CPH 2005). Or follow along with the full Formula of Concord monthly reading plan at witness.lcms.org/reading-plan. Listen to the Coffee Hour episode with Rev. Brady Finnern on Article II at kfuo.org/2025/02/03/coffee-hour-020425-free-will-in-the-formula-of-concord, and find correlating Concord Matters episodes at kfuo.org/formulaofconcord. Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Why Isn't God Fair? | Christ For YouText: Matthew 20:1–16 | The Workers in the Vineyard (Septuagesima)“Why isn't God fair?” It's one of the most common complaints people make about Christianity — and sometimes the quiet question Christians carry when life hurts. Jesus answers it with a story about workers in a vineyard, a grumbling crew, and a master who refuses to run His kingdom like a payroll office. The early workers want wages. The master gives gifts. And that difference changes everything.This sermon exposes the dangerous assumption that God owes us for our faithfulness, our suffering, or our years in the Church. That's Law. But then comes the Gospel: God does not deal with you on the basis of fairness, but mercy. Your standing with Him was settled not by your hours in the vineyard, but by Christ's work on the cross. The “unfairness” of God is the very thing that saves you.Here is the comfort: when you compare your life to others and wonder why theirs seems easier, Jesus points you away from the scoreboard and back to His generosity. At the end of the day, the wage is the same — forgiveness, resurrection, eternal life — not because you earned it, but because Christ did. What unbelief calls unfair, faith calls grace.Subscribe & Share:Apple Podcasts: Christ For YouSpotify: Christ For YouPortuguês: Cristo Para VocêWebsite: ZionWG.org

January 29, 2026 Daily Devotional: “The God of the Valley”Psalm 136:23 ​ "He remembered us in our low estate His love endures forever."  ​Psalm 136 is a masterpiece of repetition. Twenty-six times, the writer declares: "His love endures forever." The song begins with the high notes of creation of the sun, the moon, and the stars, as it moves through the triumphant history of Israel's deliverance from Egypt. ​But then, the song takes a tender, intimate turn in verse 23. It transitions from the God who "spread out the earth" to the God who "remembered us in our low estate." This psalm is often called the "Great Hallel" or a Jewish prayer. It is a rhythmic, liturgical song where every single verse ends with the same refrain of "His love endures forever." It walks through the grandest moments of history in the the creation of the stars, the parting of the Red Sea, and the shattering of powerful kings. ​But then, the perspective shifts. In verse 23, the Psalmist moves from the "cosmic" to the "communal" and "personal." He praises God for remembering us in our "low estate." It refers to a state of being brought low, humiliated, or weakened. It describes the times when we are at the bottom of the mountain, stripped of our pride, our strength,or our resources. ​Here is the beautiful truth of the Gospel: God does not wait for you to climb back up to Him before He notices you. Many of us feel that when we are in a "low estate", perhaps due to grief, failure, or exhaustion, we are invisible to Heaven. We think we need to "get it together" to earn God's attention. But this Psalm argues the opposite. God's memory is mostactive when we are at our lowest. He doesn't just look down at us; He moves toward us. His love is not a fair-weather friend; it is an enduring presence that meets us in the valley, the drowning rock bottom pit. Being "remembered" by God doesn't just mean He knows you exist. In the Bible, when God "remembers," He acts.​  It is easy to believe God is with us when we are winning at our highest peak in the mountain, but it is much harder when we are in the lowest of valleys, be it through loss, a mistake, or simply a season of exhaustion.  If you feel "low" today, don't try to mask it in your prayers. God's memory is specifically tuned to your current valley. Don't hide it from God. Honesty is the bridge to intimacy. Acknowledge the low places of valley in your life. When your circumstances or inner critic scream that you are forgotten, answer back and recite the refrain of this Psalm: "His love endures forever." God's remembrance often shows up in small ways, whether a timely text, a moment of peace, or the strength to take just one more step. Look for the small mercies, your feelings may change, but the endurance of His love is a historical and eternal fact.

The Old Testament, as well as the New, clearly teaches that we are saved by grace through faith.

Bob Strader. John's Gospel sermon series. Dec. 7, 2025. Christ Community Church: https://www.cccfamily.org. Watch online: https://www.youtube.com/user/CCCFamilyArlingtonTX

Jesus Followers Have the Important Gospel Communication Tool – Their Life in Christ Lets Others See Jesus in Them MESSAGE SUMMARY:  In 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, Paul writes a complex statement that tells you, as a follower of Jesus, about the most important tool that God gives you for communicating the Gospel -- God lets others see Jesus in you through your life in Christ! Therefore, by living in Christ, your life becomes the most compelling argument for the Gospel – an argument that far surpasses written or spoken words. Paul's 2 Corinthians 3:12-18 text reads: “Since we have such a hope, we are very bold, not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face so that the Israelites might not gaze at the outcome of what was being brought to an end. But their minds were hardened. For to this day, when they read the old covenant, that same veil remains unlifted, because only through Christ is it taken away. Yes, to this day whenever Moses is read a veil lies over their hearts. But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”. Do others, from your life, see Jesus in you?     TODAY'S PRAYER: Father, I confess that when difficulties and trials come into my life, large or small, I mostly grumble and complain. I realize the trials James talks about are not necessarily “walls,” but they are difficult to bear, nonetheless. Fill me with such a vision of a transformed life, O God, that I might actually consider it “pure joy” when you bring trials my way. I believe, Lord. Help my unbelief. In Jesus' name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 94). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Inconsistencies. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Faithfulness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Isiah 35:1-9; John 1:14; Isaiah 11:1-2; Psalms 44b:14-26. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Why We Do Christmas” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

King David's life proves a sobering truth: great victories do not make us immune to great failure. In this message, we confront David's moral collapse, the devastating consequences that followed, and—most importantly—the redeeming grace of God that did not abandon him. Though David's sin brought judgment, God's covenant mercy prevailed. Through repentance and restoration, the Lord continued His redemptive plan, bringing the promised Redeemer—Jesus Christ—through David's lineage. This message centers on the hope of the Gospel: God does not excuse sin, but He redeems repentant sinners by grace through faith. This sermon is a call to self-examination, repentance, and renewed faith in Jesus Christ and Him crucified. It speaks directly to fallen warriors, weary believers, and anyone who feels disqualified by past failure. No matter how far you have fallen, redemption is found at the Cross.

Located in the heart of downtown Maryville, Coram Deo Baptist Church (formerly Pleasant Grove at College Street) was founded as a church plant of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in 2017.

Located in the heart of downtown Maryville, Coram Deo Baptist Church (formerly Pleasant Grove at College Street) was founded as a church plant of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in 2017.

Exodus 3:1-15

Have you ever been outside and just looked around? Everything you see God has created. God is not boring. For someone to create all of this, how could He be? Today Pastor Ricky reminds us from the book of Ezekiel that everything started with God. He's merciful, gracious, and loving. We live inside His universe that He created, and God is beyond what we could imagine, He's better than we can imagine. He's not a boring God. The question is, do you know Him?

The Bible is a story about God. The very beginning of everything started with Him. God's people in the book of Ezekiel thought that He was powerless and distant. As they were in exile, they wondered where and what God was doing. Pastor Ricky will remind us that we can't put God in a box. He's not a tamed God. He's living and active whether you can see Him working or not. He's all-powerful and all-knowing. This is the God of the Bible and the God of today. Are you following Him?

God's economy operates on the principle of enough, not excess. The Israelites receiving manna in the wilderness teaches us to trust God's daily provision rather than hoarding out of fear. Throughout Scripture, from the manna to the feeding of multitudes, we see that abundance isn't measured by excess but by trust in divine provision. John Wesley modeled this by living simply while giving generously. Practicing contentment means observing Sabbath rest, curbing waste, giving generously, and living more simply - finding that godliness with contentment is great gain.

Life often feels like a carefully planned play, where we prepare, strategize, and expect things to unfold according to our vision. Yet, just as a quarterback can call an audible and change the play at the last second, God sometimes redirects our lives in ways we never anticipated. My own journey as a planner—both in my career as a fire chief and in my personal life—was upended when my wife Deanna went home to be with the Lord. All my meticulous plans were suddenly irrelevant, and I was left to wrestle with the reality of whether I truly trusted God with all my heart, or if I had been relying on my own understanding all along.Proverbs 3:5-6 became a lifeline: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” These words are simple, but their depth is profound. It's easy to say we trust God, but when life's foundation is shaken, we discover the areas we've kept for ourselves, the places where we've asked God to bless our plans rather than seeking His will first. True faith means surrendering every area—family, work, finances, relationships, even our very purpose—to God's direction, making Him the center of our lives rather than just another part.A God-centered life is not about the absence of suffering or loss, but about trusting that God's purposes will prevail, even when we don't understand. We are called to seek Him in all things: through prayer, through the counsel of the Holy Spirit and the community of believers, and through obedience to His Word. God's will is not a mystery reserved for the few; it is revealed as we humble ourselves, relinquish control, and walk in daily dependence on Him. Even in our pain and confusion, God is working all things together for good, drawing us and others closer to Himself.Ultimately, our lives are not about our own achievements or plans, but about glorifying God, growing in Christ, and serving others. The gospel—the good news of Jesus' death and resurrection—is the centerpiece of God's plan, the ultimate expression of His love and purpose for us. We are invited to trust Him fully, to let go of the exhausting burden of trying to be in control, and to rest in the assurance that He is the perfect planner, guiding us every step of the way. Chapters[00:00] - Welcome[01:30] - Life's Audibles and Lost Control[02:34] - The Planner's Dilemma[06:46] - When God Changes the Plan[10:20] - Faith Tested in Loss[13:11] - Proverbs 3:5-6: Trusting God Fully[15:42] - Blind Spots and Complacency[18:10] - The Limits of Human Understanding[19:39] - God's Perspective vs. Ours[22:36] - Surrendering to God's Wisdom[25:23] - God-Centered vs. Self-Centered Life[27:07] - Living Out God's Will in Relationships[29:06] - Identity and Ministry in Christ[30:37] - Seeking God's Will: Practical Steps[34:18] - Daily Dependence and Obedience[36:20] - God's Strategic Plan and Our Suffering[38:13] - The Gospel: God's Ultimate Will[43:58] - Letting Go and Enjoying the Journey[45:21] - Created for Relationship and Love[47:48] - The Bible: God's Plan for Restoration[48:31] - The Cross: Centerpiece of God's Will[49:21] - Closing Prayer and Invitation

Jesus Followers Have the Important Gospel Communication Tool – Their Life in Christ Lets Others See Jesus in Them MESSAGE SUMMARY:  In 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, Paul writes a complex statement that tells you, as a follower of Jesus, about the most important tool that God gives you for communicating the Gospel -- God lets others see Jesus in you through your life in Christ! Therefore, by living in Christ, your life becomes the most compelling argument for the Gospel – an argument that far surpasses written or spoken words. Paul's 2 Corinthians 3:12-18 text reads: “Since we have such a hope, we are very bold, not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face so that the Israelites might not gaze at the outcome of what was being brought to an end. But their minds were hardened. For to this day, when they read the old covenant, that same veil remains unlifted, because only through Christ is it taken away. Yes, to this day whenever Moses is read a veil lies over their hearts. But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”. Do others, from your life, see Jesus in you?     TODAY'S PRAYER: Father, I confess that when difficulties and trials come into my life, large or small, I mostly grumble and complain. I realize the trials James talks about are not necessarily “walls,” but they are difficult to bear, nonetheless. Fill me with such a vision of a transformed life, O God, that I might actually consider it “pure joy” when you bring trials my way. I believe, Lord. Help my unbelief. In Jesus' name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 94). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Evil Ways. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Goodness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Isiah 35:1-9; John 1:14; Isaiah 11:1-2; Psalms 44b:14-26. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Stand in the Gap” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

The book of Hosea offers us a metaphor of God's faithful love to us. God tells Hosea to marry a prostitute to illustrate how Israel has been unfaithful in their relationship with God. Hosea tells the Gospel - God's Love Story for us today. Our mission is to help everyone take their next step closer to Jesus. We'd love to meet you some Sunday! Come join us on a Sunday morning at 4920 Woodbury Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125. https://www.woodburychurch.org #WoodburyMN #FaithInHardTimes #HopeInJesus #ChurchNearMe #YouBelongHere

6-29-25 Biblical-Literacy Dr. David Capes provided an introduction in a summer study of Philippians: an Epistle of Friendship. Paul's relationship with the church: established on his 2nd missionary journey. First church in Europe. Paul wrote the letter during Roman military custody - Christian community supported him - He was able to communicate outside of jail - People were able to see him and tend to his needs - Imprisoned a long time Friendship Letter - a sharing of life together. - Fellowship - Equality - Friends hold all things in common - Friends have the same mind - Sharing in trouble and sufferings and rejoicing Points for home - Friendship is central to the Gospel - God will complete what he started - Paul can teach us to pray Listen to Dr. Capes present the background for Paul's letter to the Philippians, written while incarcerated in a Roman prison. Dr. Capes breaks down Paul's language of friendship to show the Joy of Christ.

6-29-25 Biblical-Literacy Dr. David Capes provided an introduction in a summer study of Philippians: an Epistle of Friendship. Paul's relationship with the church: established on his 2nd missionary journey. First church in Europe. Paul wrote the letter during Roman military custody - Christian community supported him - He was able to communicate outside of jail - People were able to see him and tend to his needs - Imprisoned a long time Friendship Letter - a sharing of life together. - Fellowship - Equality - Friends hold all things in common - Friends have the same mind - Sharing in trouble and sufferings and rejoicing Points for home - Friendship is central to the Gospel - God will complete what he started - Paul can teach us to pray Listen to Dr. Capes present the background for Paul's letter to the Philippians, written while incarcerated in a Roman prison. Dr. Capes breaks down Paul's language of friendship to show the Joy of Christ.

Hope deferred makes the heart sick,    but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.Proverbs 13:12Let Down - “I tried faith and it didn't work.”Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!    Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!Psalms 34:8After this Jesus went away to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. 2 And a large crowd was following him, because they saw the signs that he was doing on the sick. 3 Jesus went up on the mountain, and there he sat down with his disciples. 4 Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand. 5 Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?” 6 He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do.John 6:1-611 Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated. So also the fish, as much as they wanted. 12 And when they had eaten their fill, he told his disciples, “Gather up the leftover fragments, that nothing may be lost.” 13 So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten. 14 When the people saw the sign that he had done, they said, “This is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world!”15 Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain by himself.John 6:11-1524 So when the crowd saw that Jesus was not there, nor his disciples, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum, seeking Jesus.John 6:11-2435 Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.John 6:3541 So the Jews grumbled about him, because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” 42 They said, “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How does he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven'?” John 6:41-4252 The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” 53 So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. 54 Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. 55 For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. 56 Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. John 6:52-5666 After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. 67 So Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?”John 6:66-67Jesus helps us ask better questions.24 So when the crowd saw that Jesus was not there, nor his disciples, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum, seeking Jesus. 25 When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?” 26 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves.John 6:11-24Instead of asking “why did you leave Jesus?”, we need to be asking “why did you seek Jesus?”Hope deferred makes the heart sick,    but a desire fulfilled is a tree of life.Proverbs 13:123 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound[a] teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. 5 As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.2 Timothy 4:1-5False Gospels that will never meet our expectationsComfortable Gospel - “Following Jesus will make life easier”Prosperity Gospel - “God will give me everything I want if I follow Him”Super-Christian Gospel - “Good Christians don't struggle with doubt, sin, or mental health”Magic Pill Gospel - “Once I'm saved, change will be instant”Utopia Gospel - “Christians will always reflect Jesus perfectly”Faith Gospel - “If I have enough faith, everything will go right”Cross-less Gospel - “God's Will always feels good”Earn it Gospel - “I must earn God's love or approval through performance”Nice Gospel - “Following Jesus is about being a good person”Faithless Gospel - “God will answer all of my questions”THE PRODIGAL SONS29 but he answered his father, ‘Look, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command, yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him!' 31 And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.'”Luke 15:29-32

Sermon Series ' The Gospel: God's Plan for all People. We're about three things at @CityPostChurch: Build, Equip, and Send.BUILD Kingdom, EQUIP Believers, and SEND out Agents of the Gospel to saturate Fort Worth with the light and love of Jesus. All under the Lordship of Jesus Christ.Let's Connect!www.citypostchurch.org or email us at info@citypostchurch.org

In this special "May the 4th" kickoff to our May sermon series, we dive deep into the heart of the Gospel: God is not distant—He is WITH you, IN you, and FOR you. Using the cultural touchstone of Star Wars' “the Force,” Pastor Jamie reminds us of the true sustaining power of the universe—the presence of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit living in union with us. From the fiery furnace in Daniel to the promises of Isaiah and the Gospel of John, this message is rich with encouragement for those walking through fear, sorrow, confusion, or weakness. You'll discover how our seamless union with Christ changes everything—your identity, your emotions, your decisions, and your daily life. This is not about a fleeting visitation; it's about habitation. So today, we're not saying “May the Force be with you.” We're declaring “May you KNOW that the Father IS with you!”

Read Online“God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” John 3:16We continue, today, to read from the conversation that Jesus had with Nicodemus, the Pharisee who ultimately converted and is venerated as one of the early saints of the Church. Recall that Jesus challenged Nicodemus as a way of helping him to make the difficult decision to reject the malice of the other Pharisees and to become His follower. This passage quoted above comes from Nicodemus' first conversation with Jesus and is often quoted by our evangelical brothers and sisters as a summary of the whole Gospel. And indeed it is.Throughout Chapter 3 of John's Gospel, Jesus teaches about light and darkness, being born from above, wickedness, sin, condemnation, the Spirit and much more. But in many ways, all that Jesus taught in this chapter and throughout His public ministry can be summed up in this short and to-the-point statement: “God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” This short teaching could be broken down into five essential truths.First, the Father's love for humanity, and specifically, for you, is a love so deep that there is no way we will ever fully understand the depths of His love. Second, the love the Father has for us compelled Him to give us the greatest gift we could ever receive and the greatest gift the Father could give: His own divine Son. This gift must be prayerfully pondered if we are to come to a deepening understanding of the infinite generosity of the Father. Third, as we prayerfully enter deeper and deeper into our understanding of this incredible gift of the Son, our only appropriate response is faith. We must “believe in Him.” And our belief must deepen just as our understanding deepens.Fourth, we must realize that eternal death is always possible. It is possible that we eternally “perish.” That realization will give even greater insight into the gift of the Son, in that we will realize that the first duty of the Son is to save us from eternal separation from the Father.Lastly, the gift of the Son from the Father is not only to save us but also to draw us to the heights of Heaven. That is, we are given “eternal life.” This gift of eternity is of infinite capacity, value, glory and fulfillment.Reflect, today, upon this summary of the whole Gospel: “God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” Take it line by line, prayerfully seeking to understand the beautiful and transforming truths revealed to us by our Lord in this holy conversation with Nicodemus. Try to see yourself as Nicodemus, a good person who is trying to understand Jesus and His teachings more clearly. If you can listen to these words with Nicodemus and accept them deeply in faith, then you, too, will share in the eternal glory these words promise. My glorious Lord, You came to us as the greatest Gift ever imagined. You are the gift of the Father in Heaven. You were sent out of love for the purpose of saving us and drawing us into the glory of eternity. Help me to understand and believe all that You are and to receive You as the saving Gift for Eternity. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Matthias Stom, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Easter is the perfect time for Christians to reflect on the providence of God in constituting our nation in such a way that the Free Exercise Clause codified a great gospel doctrine. It brings to a particular resolution the history of a debate that can be traced back to 16th century English theologian, William Perkins. Presidents George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson wrote of it. So, whenever someone says to you that the Constitution is a secular instrument because it doesn’t mention God—and it doesn’t— the information in today's podcast will allow you to share with him or her what is at the heart of the Gospel.

Easter is the perfect time for Christians to reflect on the providence of God in constituting our nation in such a way that the Free Exercise Clause codified a great gospel doctrine. It brings to a particular resolution the history of a debate that can be traced back to 16th century English theologian, William Perkins. Presidents George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson wrote of it. So, whenever someone says to you that the Constitution is a secular instrument because it doesn’t mention God—and it doesn’t— the information in today's podcast will allow you to share with him or her what is at the heart of the Gospel.

Jesus Followers Have the Important Gospel Communication Tool – Their Life in Christ Lets Others See Jesus in Them MESSAGE SUMMARY:  In 2 Corinthians 3:12-18, Paul writes a complex statement that tells you, as a follower of Jesus, about the most important tool that God gives you for communicating the Gospel -- God lets others see Jesus in you through your life in Christ! Therefore, by living in Christ, your life becomes the most compelling argument for the Gospel – an argument that far surpasses written or spoken words. Paul's 2 Corinthians 3:12-18 text reads: “Since we have such a hope, we are very bold, not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face so that the Israelites might not gaze at the outcome of what was being brought to an end. But their minds were hardened. For to this day, when they read the old covenant, that same veil remains unlifted, because only through Christ is it taken away. Yes, to this day whenever Moses is read a veil lies over their hearts. But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”. Do others, from your life, see Jesus in you?     TODAY'S PRAYER: Father, I confess that when difficulties and trials come into my life, large or small, I mostly grumble and complain. I realize the trials James talks about are not necessarily “walls,” but they are difficult to bear, nonetheless. Fill me with such a vision of a transformed life, O God, that I might actually consider it “pure joy” when you bring trials my way. I believe, Lord. Help my unbelief. In Jesus' name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 94). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Heartlessness. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Kindness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Isiah 35:1-9; John 1:14; Isaiah 11:1-2; Psalms 44b:14-26. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part1 – People of the Book” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

How does the Gospel get twisted by having the wrong view of God?

Ephesians 2:1-3; John 1:18; Exodus 4:22; Deuteronomy 32:6; Psalm 103:13; Isaiah 64:8; Jeremiah 31:9; Malachi 1:6; Matthew 11:27; Hebrews 1:1-3; Genesis 1:1, 27; John 1:9-13; 3:16; 17:1-3; Hebrews 2:10; Romans 8:15-16; Revelation 21:1-7; 22:3-5 Speaker: Pastor Joel Evrist You can also listen to the Walking Through The Word Podcast and Walking Through The Word Podcast 4 Kids at https://www.lifereachresources.com/podcasts. You can get your CORE4 and CORE4Kids discipleship resources at https://www.lifereachresources.com/core4. Find out more about becoming a Disciple-Maker at https://www.lifereachresources.com/disciplemakingteam.

Genesis 1:1-2; 26-28; Romans 1:13-23; Exodus 34:5-9 God Is The Creator God Is Holy And Righteous Speaker: Pastor Scott Weaver You can also listen to the Walking Through The Word Podcast and Walking Through The Word Podcast 4 Kids at https://www.lifereachresources.com/podcasts. You can get your CORE4 and CORE4Kids discipleship resources at https://www.lifereachresources.com/core4. Find out more about becoming a Disciple-Maker at https://www.lifereachresources.com/disciplemakingteam.

Summary of "The Gospel: God's Power for Salvation" by Patricia Hudson (by OpenAI) Patricia Hudson's message emphasizes the transformative power of the Gospel and the responsibility of Christ-followers to share it. Drawing from Acts 10 and Matthew 28:18-20, she explores Peter's divine appointment to preach to Cornelius, a Gentile, marking a pivotal moment in the spread of the Gospel beyond the Jewish community. Key themes include: The Vision for 2025: "Each One, Reach One" as a call for every believer to share the Gospel. Peter and Cornelius: Peter's vision in Joppa and Cornelius's divine instructions highlight God's intent to extend salvation to all nations. The Gospel's Universality: Peter's realization that God shows no partiality and that salvation is available to all who believe. The Holy Spirit's Role: The Spirit's guidance and power are essential for witnessing and sharing the Gospel. Call to Action: Hudson encourages believers to study, internalize, and share the Gospel confidently, reflecting on its power to change lives. Hudson concludes with a challenge to believers: prepare to share the Gospel by delving into Scripture and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide their efforts in spreading the message of salvation.

November 3, 2024 | City on a Hill | John 8:12 In this message from our City on a Hill series, we dive into John 8:12 where Jesus declares, "I am the light of the world." We see Jesus' identity as the Messiah and God Himself is the source of our true identity as the Light of the World. Discover how following Jesus is the key to stepping out of darkness and into the life He offers. This message reveals the heart of the Gospel: God came to us, not to demand our perfection, but to offer Himself as our Savior. Join us as we unpack the powerful truths that transform our lives! Do you know JESUS?: ⁠⁠https://www.nblongview.org/do-you-know-jesus⁠⁠ Need PRAYER?: ⁠⁠https://www.nblongview.org/pray⁠⁠ SUPPORT through giving: ⁠⁠https://www.nbbctx.org/giving⁠⁠

What does it look like to step out of our comfort zones and embrace God's call to love those who may not be "like us"? Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 0:13 - Acts Chapter 10: Peter, Cornelius, and Simon the Tanner 2:00 - The Vision on the Roof 4:35 - Jewish Laws and Ritual Purity 6:33 - Jesus Fulfilled the Law 8:30 - The Gospel: God's Sacrifice for Us 11:00 - Moving Beyond Comfort Zones 13:10 - Faith Requires Risk 14:45 - Peter's Call to Cornelius' House 17:05 - The Holy Spirit's Leading 19:45 - Lessons from Jiu-Jitsu and Misconceptions About the Gospel 22:00 - The True Gospel: Serving, Not Ascending 24:30 - Peter's Obedience Leads to the Holy Spirit's Outpouring 26:10 - 100 Baptisms Celebration! 27:00 - Encouragement to Step Out in Faith 30:35 - Invitation to Follow Jesus and Prayer for Salvation

What does it look like to step out of our comfort zones and embrace God's call to love those who may not be "like us"? Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 0:13 - Acts Chapter 10: Peter, Cornelius, and Simon the Tanner 2:00 - The Vision on the Roof 4:35 - Jewish Laws and Ritual Purity 6:33 - Jesus Fulfilled the Law 8:30 - The Gospel: God's Sacrifice for Us 11:00 - Moving Beyond Comfort Zones 13:10 - Faith Requires Risk 14:45 - Peter's Call to Cornelius' House 17:05 - The Holy Spirit's Leading 19:45 - Lessons from Jiu-Jitsu and Misconceptions About the Gospel 22:00 - The True Gospel: Serving, Not Ascending 24:30 - Peter's Obedience Leads to the Holy Spirit's Outpouring 26:10 - 100 Baptisms Celebration! 27:00 - Encouragement to Step Out in Faith 30:35 - Invitation to Follow Jesus and Prayer for Salvation

Exploring the Signs of Jesus' Glory in the Book of John In the podcast episode, Nicole Unice delves into the significance of Jesus's signs in John 2 and 3. These signs not only reveal Jesus' divine nature but also illustrate profound themes of hospitality, justice, and personal transformation. The First Miracle: Water into Wine The episode begins with the account of Jesus' first miracle at a wedding in Cana, where He turns water into wine. This event is significant for several reasons: Celebration and Hospitality: Weddings in Jewish culture are grand celebrations that can last several days. The absence of wine would have been a major social faux pas, reflecting poorly on the hosts. By performing this miracle, Jesus demonstrates His concern for joy and hospitality, emphasizing that He cares about the everyday moments of life, not just dire circumstances. Abundance: The miracle is characterized by abundance; Jesus doesn't just provide a little wine but an overwhelming amount, showcasing His generosity. This theme of abundance recurs throughout the Book of John, highlighting that Jesus offers more than what is necessary. Revelation of Glory: The miracle serves as the first sign through which Jesus reveals His glory. Interestingly, it is not the wedding guests who recognize this glory, but His disciples, who come to believe in Him as a result. This points to the idea that true understanding and faith often come from being close to Jesus and witnessing His works firsthand. The Cleansing of the Temple Following the wedding miracle, the narrative shifts dramatically to Jesus cleansing the temple. This event reveals another facet of Jesus' character: Righteous Anger: Jesus' actions in the temple demonstrate His passion for justice. He is angered by the exploitation of the poor, who come to the temple to make sacrifices. The money changers and sellers are taking advantage of their need, turning a sacred space into a marketplace. This act of cleansing the temple shows that Jesus is not only a figure of hospitality but also one who stands against injustice. Challenge to Religious Authority: When the religious leaders demand a sign to validate His authority, Jesus responds cryptically, foreshadowing His death and resurrection. He indicates that true worship will not be confined to a physical temple but will be found in Him. This confrontation sets the stage for ongoing conflict between Jesus and the religious authorities, illustrating that following Him may lead to challenges and opposition. The Conversation with Nicodemus The episode concludes with Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, a Pharisee who comes to Him at night. This dialogue introduces the concept of spiritual rebirth: Spiritual Transformation: Jesus tells Nicodemus that one must be "born again" to see the Kingdom of God. This idea of spiritual rebirth is central to understanding the transformative power of faith in Christ. It emphasizes that entering into a relationship with Jesus requires a fundamental change in one's life and perspective. The Sign of the Cross: Jesus references the story of Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness, drawing a parallel to His own impending crucifixion. Just as the Israelites were healed by looking at the serpent, so too will people find eternal life by looking to Jesus on the cross. This connection underscores the simplicity and depth of the Gospel message: belief in Jesus leads to salvation. God's Love for Humanity: The well-known verse John 3:16 encapsulates the essence of the Gospel: God's immense love for the world and His desire for all to have eternal life through faith in His Son. This message of love and hope is a cornerstone of Christian belief. Journal your questions: Talk to God about how it feels to know the very first sign of his glory was at a party and sparked joy. Do you experience joy and hospitality in your life? How can you invite someone into that? What signs are you asking for? When have you seen God's glory? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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