Podcasts about Gospel of Matthew

Social media changed something in all of us. When the like button appeared, life slowly became a performance — moments curated, stories crafted, and approval measured. But that same instinct can quietly shape our faith, turning something meant to transform us into something we perform for others. In this message, we explore why hypocrisy and performative religion push people away, and why authenticity, compassion, and humility matter more than appearances. If you've ever felt frustrated with religious hypocrisy or wondered why faith sometimes feels fake, this conversation is for you.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

What does your life hang on?

Carlos Lollett shares how passion for the Lord can drive action.

In Pastor Maiola's sermon from Matthew 3:13–4:11, we walk with Jesus from the waters of baptism into the wilderness of temptation. Although He had no sin, we see the beauty of Christ identifying with us in our weaknesses. Jesus stepped into baptism to fulfill all righteousness and to begin His public ministry in obedience to the Father. The Holy Spirit descends like a dove and the Father declares, "This is my beloved Son." Maiola reminds us of our identity in who God says we are and encourages us to dismiss the accusations of the enemy.   From there, we follow Jesus into the wilderness where He faces real temptation. The enemy attacks Jesus' identity, His physical needs, and tempts Jesus to worship him. Yet where Israel failed in the wilderness and where we often fail, Jesus succeeds perfectly by standing firm on the truth of God's Word. Through His humble obedience and submission to the Father, we see how trusting God's Word gives us strength in moments of testing and uncertainty.   We are reminded that we are not alone in our struggles. Jesus understands temptation and shows us His very own example of how to resist the schemes of the enemy. Because Christ has overcome, we can walk in confidence knowing our hope and victory are found in Him.

In Pastor Maiola's sermon from Matthew 3:13–4:11, we walk with Jesus from the waters of baptism into the wilderness of temptation. Although He had no sin, we see the beauty of Christ identifying with us in our weaknesses. Jesus stepped into baptism to fulfill all righteousness and to begin His public ministry in obedience to the Father. The Holy Spirit descends like a dove and the Father declares, "This is my beloved Son." Maiola reminds us of our identity in who God says we are and encourages us to dismiss the accusations of the enemy.   From there, we follow Jesus into the wilderness where He faces real temptation. The enemy attacks Jesus' identity, His physical needs, and tempts Jesus to worship him. Yet where Israel failed in the wilderness and where we often fail, Jesus succeeds perfectly by standing firm on the truth of God's Word. Through His humble obedience and submission to the Father, we see how trusting God's Word gives us strength in moments of testing and uncertainty.   We are reminded that we are not alone in our struggles. Jesus understands temptation and shows us His very own example of how to resist the schemes of the enemy. Because Christ has overcome, we can walk in confidence knowing our hope and victory are found in Him.

Many of us spend years asking the same things: Am I doing enough? Am I keeping up? Am I falling behind? But over time a deeper question starts to surface, who am I actually becoming? In this message, we explore the tension between achievement and identity, why being busy doesn't always mean we're becoming better people, and why the most important measure of a life well lived might be something completely different than what culture tells us. If you've ever wondered why success can still leave you feeling restless, this conversation might challenge the way you think about purpose, priorities, and what really matters.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

A choice to limit your understanding of God is a choice to limit your experience of Him in your life.

Send a text In Matthew 5:11–12, Jesus speaks directly to His disciples about what it can feel like to follow Him in a world that doesn't always welcome Him—insults, pressure, and even false accusations. In this episode of BuddyWalk with Jesus, we slow down and listen with maturity and care: what does “blessed” mean when life hurts, why does Jesus anchor us in “because of Me,” and how can joy be real without being fake? We'll also look at key Greek words that deepen the passage—showing how Jesus isn't romanticizing suffering, but strengthening His people with a truer verdict and a steadier hope. Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia

We continue in our series on Matthew this week.

Matthew 3:1–17, introduces us to John the Baptist. He is the forerunner preparing the way for the coming King. John's call is clear and urgent: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." John's ministry in the wilderness fulfills prophecy and confronts empty religion, reminding us that true preparation for Christ begins in the heart.    Pastor Maiola shows us that repentance is more than feeling sorry; it is a turning away from sin and a turning toward God. A turning from what is sinful and disgusting and a turning towards God - walking in His light and freedom. When repentance is genuine, it produces real fruit - a transformed life shaped by ongoing surrender and sanctification. We are encouraged when we remember our salvation does not hinge on our lineage or our good works, but rather on Jesus' finished work on the cross.

Why does every conversation feel tense, defensive, or explosive lately? Politics, social issues, and opinions dominate our feeds—but real understanding feels harder than ever. In this message, we explore why anger has become louder than listening, how “gotcha” questions shut down meaningful dialogue, and what it actually looks like to respond with wisdom instead of outrage. If you're tired of endless arguments and want a better way to navigate difficult conversations, this message is for you.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

Whose inscription is written on your heart?

In this episode of Faith & Family Bible Study, Steve Wood highlights the most important word in the Gospel of Matthew: Jesus. Drawing from Matthew 1:21, Steve explains that the name Jesus—meaning “YHWH saves”—summarizes the heart of the Gospel and the New Covenant. This episode emphasizes two essential truths: forgiveness of sins is central, and Jesus does the saving—we do not save ourselves. Steve warns against reducing Christianity to moral effort or self-salvation and shows how forgetting the primacy of grace can lead to spiritual burnout, especially for families and children. Referencing the Catechism of the Catholic Church, he underscores that authentic Christian living flows from Christ working in us. A powerful reminder to keep Christ—not performance—at the center of faith, catechesis, and daily life. For more resources, visit us online at www.BibleforCatholics.com.  

As we turn the page to Matthew 2:13–23, Pastor Mike Skedeleski helps us to see the sovereign hand of God guiding and protecting us according to His redemptive plan, even when it seems to lead through danger, displacement, and sorrow. We learn that Joseph is obedient when told to take Mary and baby Jesus and flee to Egypt. What appears chaotic is actually fulfillment. God is retracing Israel's story and proving Himself, through Jesus, to be the True and Promised Deliverer.   Matthew shows us that even in heartbreaking tragedy, God's purposes prevail. From Egypt to Nazareth, every movement fulfills prophecy and demonstrates that God remains faithful to His promises. Pastor Mike reminds us that God's guidance requires our trust, even when we don't understand. God leads us step by step, and our calling is to obey with faith. In every season, whether marked by clarity or confusion, we can rest in the assurance that God is directing our path toward His greater purposes and ultimate redemption.

Gus Hernandez shares how the compassion of the Lord compels us to draw near to him.

We often think of kings as powerful rulers sitting in palaces, demanding service. But what if the Gospel of Matthew reveals a King who did the exact opposite? In a culture obsessed with status, wealth, and power, the true story of Jesus offers a radical alternative that feels both dangerous and incredibly freeing.This isn't just a history lesson about a book in the Bible. It is a look at why the message of Jesus was so revolutionary that it got Him killed and why it still challenges everything we know about success today. We dive into the Gospel of Matthew to uncover a Kingdom where the poor are blessed, the weak are strong, and greatness is defined by how much you serve, not how much you own.If you are tired of a version of Christianity that feels like just a list of rules, or if you're wondering if Jesus is actually relevant to your modern life, this episode is for you. Discover the King who meets you in your mess, values your heart over your performance, and invites you into a story that is still being written.SUBSCRIBE to our channel / @binmin_org JOIN the NEWSLETTER at https://binmin.org/newsletter/SUPPORT Binmin with a tax-deductible gift HERE - https://binmin.org/donate0:00 - HOOK – WHAT IF IT'S ALL TRUE?0:32 - INTRO – MATTHEW: THE KING AND HIS KINGDOM0:52 - SECTION 1 – THE KING'S UNEXPECTED ARRIVAL (GENEALOGY + BETHLEHEM + KINGDOM AT HAND)2:08 - SECTION 2 – JESUS' TEACHING: THE KINGDOM TURNS EVERYTHING UPSIDE DOWN (SERMON ON THE MOUNT + PRAYER + MERCY)4:08 - SECTION 3 – THE CROSS: THE KING'S THRONE (TRIAL, CRUCIFIXION, TORN CURTAIN)4:32 - SECTION 4 – THE RESURRECTION + GREAT COMMISSION (EMPTY TOMB, AUTHORITY, DISCIPLE-MAKING)5:48 - CALL TO ACTION – READ MATTHEW FOR 10 MINUTES A DAY (30-DAY CHALLENGE)6:19 - OUTRO – SHARE, SUBSCRIBE, BINMIN.ORGJOIN the⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ NEWSLETTER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. SUPPORT Binmin with a tax-deductible gift⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CONNECT WITH BINMIN: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Binmin.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Questions?: info@binmin.orgPODCAST RESOURCES: More from Binmin:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Binmin.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LEAVE A REVIEW on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple podcasts

What if being busy isn't the same as being healthy? This message starts with a simple moment—a child celebrating a single strawberry—and opens up a bigger question about the gap between how life looks on the outside and what's actually growing underneath. We often measure health by productivity, activity, or appearances, but those metrics can quietly mislead us. This talk invites an honest look at what real growth looks like, where it comes from, and why slowing down may be the key to becoming whole again. If you've ever felt active but disconnected, this conversation is for you.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

The door is open to everyone, but you must come clothed in what God provides.

As we look into Matthew 2:1–12, we meet the wise men and their lengthy journey which teaches us about true worship. Set against the backdrop of political tension and fulfilled prophecy, the passage contrasts three responses to Jesus: hostility, indifference, and wholehearted worship.   Herod, a self-proclaimed king, responds to the news of Christ's birth with paralyzing fear and self-preservation. Though he knows the prophecies concerning the Messiah, he refuses to surrender his throne. The chief priests and scribes possess biblical knowledge and can quote Micah with precision, yet they remain unmoved. Close to the truth, yet cold-hearted and unwilling to seek the Savior. In contrast, the wise men travel hundreds of miles at great cost, seeking the King not for power or information, but for worship.   Pastor Maiola explains the difference between looking for what is merely intriguing and instead choosing to focus on what is truly important. While many details of the star and the magi spark curiosity, the central message is clear: God sovereignly guides seekers to Christ. Maiola challenges us to pursue Christ wholeheartedly and to offer Him worship that is costly, sincere, and filled with joy.

Continuing in our series that we began since Reality Church launched! Carlos Lollett shares how the parable of the Vineyard Workers demonstrates the Gospel.

In Matthew 12:38–42, the Pharisees ask Jesus for “just one more sign.” But after witnessing healings, miracles, and undeniable evidence, their request wasn’t about proof—it was about resistance. In this message, we explore: * Why Jesus calls them a “wicked and adulterous generation” * The difference between honest doubt and stubborn unbelief * The Sign of Jonah and the power of the resurrection * What the Queen of Sheba and Nineveh reveal about real faith * How proximity to truth is not the same as obedience Have we ever asked God for a “sign” when what we really needed was obedience? This message challenges us to examine whether we are seeking confirmation—or simply resisting what we already know to be true.

What happens when something meant to be meaningful turns into a performance?In this message, we explore why so many people feel disconnected, bored, or frustrated in church—and how that often has less to do with music or style and more to do with authenticity. Using a powerful moment from history, this talk challenges the idea of “going through the motions” and invites us to rediscover what real, life-changing worship looks like. If you've ever felt like church became more about the show than the substance, this conversation is for you.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

Will we be broken and reshaped? Or resistant and crushed?

Matthew 1:18–25 draws our attention to the faith and obedience of Joseph when God unfolds the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. As Joseph faces the shock of Mary's pregnancy, Scripture reveals a righteous man who chooses to show mercy rather than condemnation. God calls Joseph to believe what is humanly impossible and to obey at great personal cost. His humble response demonstrates that faith is not merely intellectual agreement, but courageous trust expressed through obedient action.   In this message, we'll explore why affirming the virgin birth is essential to Jesus' identity as Savior and King. We see that through Joseph's willingness to receive Mary as his bride and to name the child Jesus, the legal lineage of David is preserved, and God's redemptive plan advances exactly as promised.   Pastor Maiola challenges us to believe that God is worthy of our trust and obedience, even if His calling disrupts expectations, invites misunderstanding, or requires sacrifice. Like Joseph, we are called to walk in faithful obedience, confident that God is always at work fulfilling His promises for His glory and our good.

Ever feel invisible in a crowded world? This message explores a powerful moment from the life of Jesus where two desperate men refuse to stay silent — and it changes everything. In the middle of noise, pressure, and people telling them to quiet down, they cry out for help… and are heard. If you've ever struggled with anxiety, depression, relationship stress, or feeling overlooked, this talk reminds us that your needs matter and your voice matters. Hope, healing, and real change often begin with one honest cry for help.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

You can live in God's vineyard, serve in God's vineyard, and still resist God's authority.

Jesus teaches us how to be fully human, and then invites us to be salt and light for the world. How we live our lives teaches something. It makes a difference in the world not only through direct cause and effect – but it also ripples out in what people see and what people hear; in how we convey, in our lived-out lives, what matters most and what it means to be human. We learn by living – and our living teaches something too.

In our series on Matthew, we take a look at the genealogy of Jesus and how it is far more than a list of names. This list itself is a declaration of God's sovereignty, faithfulness, and saving purpose throughout human history. Unlike other Biblical genealogies that trace descendants forward, Matthew's genealogy deliberately points toward one person, revealing that all of history finds its fulfillment in Jesus.   Despite a family history marked by failure, scandal, and brokenness, Matthew's genealogy reveals a story of grace. Names like Judah, Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, David, and Solomon remind us that God's redemptive plan is not hindered by human sin, weakness, or failure. Instead, God works through flawed people to accomplish His perfect purposes and to keep His promises.   Pastor Maiola's message concludes by emphasizing that through Joseph, Jesus holds the legal right to David's throne, and through the virgin birth, Jesus is free from Adam's sin nature. The genealogy in Matthew ultimately reminds us that our past does not define us, God's promises never fail, and that Jesus is the answer, giving us hope despite our own brokenness.

Ever feel like you're capable of more… but something keeps holding you back?In this message, Pastor Matt Brown gets real about what it actually takes to unlock your full potential—not through hype, but through growth, discipline, and resilience. You'll hear why comparison and social media can distort how you see yourself, how the right people can help you discover your strengths, and why the path to becoming your best self usually includes discomfort.You'll also learn a simple framework to push through setbacks (the “I won't / I can't / I will / I am / I did” stages), plus a mindset shift that changes everything: emotions are a mirror, not a map.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

The Father is calling us to work in his vineyard. How will you respond?

The Beatitudes describe how God is infusing the world with good. They give us a lens – that draws us into a vision –that comes to life in the lives we live. What we learn with Jesus is nothing less than how to be fully human.

In The Why?, Pastor Paul Gates explores the central motive behind all of Scripture, creation, and redemption. Drawing from Matthew 20:28 and 1 Corinthians 1:4–9, Paul invites us to look beyond the surface questions of who, what, when, where, and how, and instead confront the deeper question that runs through the entire Biblical narrative. Why did God send His Son? And why did Jesus give His life for humanity?   Paul reveals that love is not only the reason for salvation but the catalyst for a life that awaits eagerly for the return of Christ. The heart posture of waiting expectantly flows from a restored relationship with God. It is to desire Jesus Himself. To long for face-to-face communion with the One whom we love.   We learn that waiting is not passive. It is the outward expression of an inward work of God. A heart being filled by Christ and overflowing with His life. As believers are filled by Jesus, they are able to live ready, watchful, and faithful lives marked by His own love.

What does it really mean to let go and trust? In this message, we explore a powerful story about success, control, and the cost of chasing what we think will satisfy us. Through the contrast between a child and a wealthy, accomplished man, we're invited to rethink what truly matters and why letting go can feel so hard. This talk wrestles honestly with ambition, identity, and the fear of losing what we've built. Sometimes the very things we cling to are what keep us from the life we actually want.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

Sometimes “I don't know” isn't a lack of information. It's a refusal to surrender.

Here we go again! As mentioned recently, I discovered a trove of old recordings on CD and cassette tape that I was not aware of. So now I'm posting these here. These episodes of Common Threads originally aired in 2007. They have to do with the very "Jewishness" of Jesus. The book in question is "The Halakhah of Jesus of Nazareth According to the Gospel According to St. Matthew." Scholars agree that it is the most Jewish of all the Gospels. It was written by Rabbi Phillip Sigal, who held the distinction of being a rabbi with an advanced degree in New Testament studies. Since he died prior to the release of this 2007 version of the book we discuss its contents with 3 people who know this material well: Lillian Sigal (Phillip's widow and scholar in her own right), Rabbi Simcha Prombaum and interfaith academic Leonard Swidler. Yes, a cassette from almost 20 years ago might not sound as crisp as we'd like, but we think it's still quite a good listen. By the way, Lillian Sigal is a co-founder of Interfaith Dialogue Association and still a dear friend. Theme music "Nigal."

Our culture treats marriage like a vibe, a contract, or a feeling — but feelings change fast. This message challenges the idea that relationships should be disposable and asks what it really takes to build something that lasts. We talk about how desire, independence, and unrealistic expectations quietly sabotage love before we even notice. Whether you're single, dating, married, or healing from a breakup, this is about learning to choose commitment over convenience. Real relationships aren't about chasing the next spark — they're about becoming the kind of person who can actually keep one.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

Where is Jesus asking you to trust him enough to move mountains?

As we begin a new study through the Gospel of Matthew, we take a step back to see the big picture. Rather than jumping straight into individual passages, this overview will help frame Matthew's purpose, audience, and message so that we can more clearly understand who Jesus is and why He matters.   Matthew serves as a bridge between the Old and New Testaments, showing how Jesus fulfills God's promises to Israel and brings God's redemptive plan to completion. Written by Matthew—a former tax collector transformed by Jesus—the Gospel is aimed primarily at a Jewish audience, demonstrating that Jesus is not a new or foreign idea, but the long-awaited Messiah foretold in the Scriptures.   This overview reminds us that we cannot define Jesus on our own terms—we must let Scripture tell us who He is. By grounding our faith in the one true Gospel and the fulfillment found in Christ, we are invited to read Matthew with clarity, confidence, and worship - knowing that in Jesus all of God's purposes find their fulfillment.

When the vulnerable are pushed out, Jesus steps in.

Conflict shows up in every relationship, but most of us were never taught how to handle it well. In this message, Jesus offers a practical and challenging way to deal with conflict without destroying relationships. Instead of avoidance, gossip, or escalation, He calls us toward honesty, accountability, and grace. The message also confronts a hard truth: refusing to give grace after receiving it leads to bitterness and broken connection. This talk offers wisdom for healing relationships and moving forward with clarity and hope.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

What makes the Gospel of Matthew different from the other Gospels? Jeff delves into the unique aspects of the Gospel of Matthew, kicking off a series of four episodes dedicated to understanding its distinctiveness in the liturgical cycle A. Email us with comments or questions at thejeffcavinsshow@ascensionpress.com. Text “jeffcavins” to 33-777 to subscribe and get Jeff's shownotes delivered straight to your email! Or visit https://media.ascensionpress.com/?s=&page=2&category%5B0%5D=Ascension%20Podcasts&category%5B1%5D=The%20Jeff%20Cavins%20Show for full shownotes!

 Beginning this past December, the Church started a new year in the lectionary cycle, Cycle A. This Cycle of Sunday readings focuses on the Gospel of Matthew. This week, Fr. Scott gives us an introduction to this Gospel and what to expect as we move through the Sunday readings this year.https://archive.org/download/LetsTalkCatholic/LTC-173RR-Gospel-of-Matthew.mp3

Meekness is not weakness—it is power that refuses to serve itself

What if every person mattered — no exceptions? Jesus tells a story about a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep just to find the one that wandered, reminding us that real love doesn't rank people or write them off. This message is about learning to see others with compassion, celebrating even small steps forward, and remembering that your life carries real worth — even on the days you doubt it.  You are seen. You are valued. You are worth searching for.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

The Gospel of Matthew was copied and recopied for hundreds of years before the invention of the printing press - and each new copy introduced new changes to the text. What were those changes, and how do they impact the meaning of the text? Today on Misquoting Jesus, Dr. Bart Ehrman joins me to discuss how scribes changed the gospel of Matthew, and what those changes mean for us.

That quiet stretch between Christmas and New Year's can feel strange. We rest. We think. We replay the past year — sometimes with joy, sometimes regret. This message is about reflection — not guilt, not pressure — but honest growth. Because when we don't reflect, we repeat. And the cracks we ignore in our character, stress, or ego often follow us into the next season.If you want to step into the new year more grounded and intentional, this talk will guide you through simple reflection that leads to real change — not more hustle.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

In this message, we look at how the lights in the heavens are not random or accidental. The sun's distance, the moon's position, and even the protection of distant planets all point to intentional design. Science can describe what these lights are—but only God reveals why they exist and what they mean for us.That same God placed a specific light in the sky to lead the Magi to Jesus. Scholars, astronomers, and seekers from another culture followed the star until it brought them face-to-face with the Savior. Their journey reminds us that no amount of knowledge, intelligence, or sincerity can replace the need for Jesus.--Support content like this and the vision of Sandals Church at http://sandalschurch.com/support/Join our email list for content updates: http://sandalschurch.com/subscribeDownload the Sandals Church App: http://sandalschurch.com/app/If you have questions, need prayer or want to get connected, please email us anytime at online@sandalschurch.com!

Ever feel like you're working way too hard to be "the best" at everything? Most of us are exhausted from trying to keep up an image, but Jesus has a totally different (and much more relaxing) way to live.In this part of our Gospel of Matthew series, we're talking about the "Good Person" trap. Even the best people struggle with pride. It's the thing that secretly messes up our marriages, our parenting, and our peace of mind. Jesus points us to a surprising teacher on how to be "great": a child. Turns out, the secret to a better life isn't more ego. It's more humility.