Podcasts about gospel study

Jesus tells us that we need to stop living by "an eye for an eye" and instead start loving our enemies. As Fr. Jim reminds us, this is much easier said than done, even in our "enlightened" age [emphasis mine].Matthew 5:38-48Jesus said to his disciples:“You have heard that it was said,An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.When someone strikes you on your right cheek,turn the other one as well.If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic,hand over your cloak as well.Should anyone press you into service for one mile,go for two miles.Give to the one who asks of you,and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.“You have heard that it was said,You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.But I say to you, love your enemiesand pray for those who persecute you,that you may be children of your heavenly Father,for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good,and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have?Do not the tax collectors do the same?And if you greet your brothers only,what is unusual about that?Do not the pagans do the same?So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.”Alternate for Luke 6:17, 20-26Fr. Jim recorded Gospel Studies for most Gospels from September through May but sometimes Gospels were missed or the recording quality is unusable. There is not Gospel Study for the above passage from Luke, however, this passage from Matthew is a substitute. Heart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryEvangelize Seekers. Inspire Believers. Foster Disciples.--Join Heart to Heart: htoh.us/subscribeSupport Heart to Heart: htoh.us/donate

Up To Jerusalem - Teaching 1 Scripture - Matthew 20:17-19, Mark 10:32-34, Luke 18:31-33, John 11:55-57 Jesus is the most courageous man who ever lived.  He knew what lay ahead and yet He chose the road that led to the cross anyways!  Clearly, we matter to God. God loves us each individually so much that He was willing to go Up to Jerusalem. Up to Jerusalem      1.    Biblical     2.    Jewish     3.    Chronological     4.    Teleological (meaning it is by design - God's deliberate plan) In Matthew 20:17-19 we read “Now Jesus was going up to Jerusalem. On the way He took the Twelve…. “ And He shares that the Son of Man (Himself) would be arrested, condemned to death, mocked, flogged, crucified and on the 3rd day He will be raised to life. Jesus is up front with telling of His death and resurrection but the disciples did not understand what He was saying.  In Mark 10:22 and 32 Mark reports that they were on their way up to Jerusalem and Jesus told them what was going to happen to Him. There is a sense of fear and uncertainty in the air….. Luke 18:31-33 as well tells us that Jesus took them aside and said that they were going up to Jerusalem and He told them everything that is written by the prophets on the Son of Man would be fulfilled…. He would be arrested, mocked, flogged, killed, and on the 3rd day He will rise again. John tells us in John 11:55-57 that Jesus was going up to Jerusalem but adds the piece that the chief priests and pharisees had plans to arrest Jesus. Comparing all four sources, we can determine a specific time when this conversation happened.  This is just days before the Passover festival (a festival commemorating the deliverance of the Israelites by God from bondage in Egypt, when they put the blood of a lamb on their door posts and the Lord passed over their homes - saving them from the 10th Plague and then God used Moses to lead them out of Egypt.) From these four sets of verses we learn that: God will carry out His purpose! Jesus will do the Father's will! And God wins! Everything in the Bible points to these final days of Jesus and everything that follows flows out of these days - because the Final Return of Jesus is coming!!  He has already won the victory! And because of that victory, we are assured that God wins and so do we as His believers! The story of Up to Jerusalem is truth that transforms- it is life-giving - it changes EVERYTHING! And so let's head Up to Jerusalem! Pastor digs deeper into who the chief priests were: their politics, their duties, their influence, their teachings, and their opposition to Jesus. They viewed Him as a threat to their power, influence, wealth and futures. What we learn is that what God desires from us is not religion - He desires relationship with Him: to know Him, to listen to Him, to follow Him. Pastor explores a few more verses in Matthew as they are on the road up to Jerusalem. Jesus teaches the disciples that life is not about achievements and being “top dog”. This life is about serving.  Jesus says, “serving, even as I have served.” Jesus is a servant - and we are called to be like that. Jesus tells that serving Him and others is the way the Father would have us do things, not the way the world does - of looking out for only one's self. Jesus teaches and shows us that with God it's all about self sacrifice and service - being humble and obedient, it's not about self-promotion and self-aggrandizement.  Did you know the word leader is mentioned only 6 times in the King James Bible, but servant is mentioned 900 times! Kinda' emphasizes the point! Jesus says, “The Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.” This is our model and we are called to be more and more like Him Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 Up to Jerusalem is a study of the final weeks of Jesus' ministry concluding with His resurrection and ascension, using the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John together with material from ancient sources and recent discoveries.  Up to Jerusalem is part four of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. Up To Jerusalem is the story of the plan of God to redeem the world, and the story of a Savior willing to obey the Father's plan. As we study Jesus' final days, we will be impacted as we discover the Love of God for each one of us.  This study is great for large group, small group or home group study and can be started at any time.

Scripture - Luke 24:36-49  “What Is Written”.  Other scripture: Exodus 15:2,Isaiah 52:7, Psalm 27:1, 1 Chronicles 16:35  Our story today continues with the two disciples in the story, “Road to Emmaus” from last week who once they understood that it was Jesus they had been talking with, immediately returned to Jerusalem. Our story picks up after they have arrived back in Jerusalem and are with the others in a private, locked room when suddenly Jesus Himself is with them in the room and greets them, “Peace be with you!” Peace… The peace we receive from Jesus is life transforming. Peace or the Hebrew word, Shalom, means everything is right with the world because everything is right with God because when Jesus rose from the grave it shows that now everything is now right with God and with those who have repented and received Him by faith.  As those people with God's peace, we know that ALL things are going to work together for good, we know God has won the victory and that we will be part of His final triumph - so fear flees and peace comes! Back to the story: Jesus' sudden appearance startles them. He's supposed to be dead and defeated and yet here He is and He is no longer dead - He is not defeated, He is VICTORIOUS! Jesus shows them His hands and feet and eats with them and reminds them that everything written about Him in the books of the Law, the prophets and the psalms was fulfilled through Him. Then He opens their minds so they can understand the Scripture and they see who He truly is and how the scripture is all about Him.  Jesus' name means SALVATION - and all throughout scripture the One who saves is mentioned over and over - Jesus is the One who has become our Salvation. Jesus IS Salvation! In Hebrew the word for Jesus is the same word as the word for Salvation.  It's an interesting exercise to read scriptures replacing “Jesus” for the word “salvation.”  Examples: Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?  Becomes: The Lord is my light and my JESUS; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Exodus 15:2 The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him. Becomes: “The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my JESUS. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him. One more, Isaiah 52:7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” Becomes: How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim JESUS, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” Jesus is all over the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament). It is not simply the prophetic words that predicted His coming, his death and His resurrection; it is not merely the historic events that mirrored who He would be and give us a picture of Him before He even came; it is not simply the promisee of the prophet's that Messiah would come - HIS NAME - Is everywhere! He is salvation!  Salvation and Jesus are the same Hebrew word. Wherever you read salvation it is Jesus! Now it will be impossible to miss it every time you read it! As our story continues, Jesus talks how the scriptures say He would suffer, die but rise again. He talks of how repentance for the forgiveness of sin would be preached in Jerusalem and then into the whole world, and he shares how they were witnesses to these things. He ends with the promise of the Holy Spirit. As we look at the New Testament - we can see for example that the story of Zacchaeus when Jesus said, “Today, Salvation has come to this house” that Jesus was probably speaking Hebrew (not Greek, the language the New Testament was written in) so what is translated “salvation” was most likely “Jesus” so it sounds like this: Jesus said, “Today, JESUS has come to this house!” Jesus is the name by which we are saved because Jesus IS Salvation! May we never stop speaking Jesus! May we never stop speaking salvation! What is written - is our Salvation What is written - Is the Name of Jesus! Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. This book written by Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group, small group or home group study.

Join Dr. Laurel Thatcher Ulrich in her masterful exploration of “Revelations (and Revolutions) in Context: How to read the Doctrine & Covenants” for the start of Dialogue Gospel Study 2025. Laurel Ulrich is a retired… The post Revelations (and Revolutions) in Context: Gospel Study with Laurel Thatcher Ulrich appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

Scripture - Luke 24:13-25  “Surprise Encounter”.  Other scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:20, Romans 10:17, Hebrews 13:20-21 The first day of Jesus' Resurrection was a day of surprises!   Today's story is one of the most incredible stories in the Bible. It is one of the most incredible acts of historical reporting found anywhere in all of literature and all of history!  It is the story of two disciples on the road to Emmaus and their surprise encounter with the One who is risen from the dead! The last day of the week is the Jewish day of the Sabbath Day which is a Saturday. Today's story takes place on Sunday, the first day of the week. But this was a special “first day of the week” because this particular Sunday was the first day after the Sabbath of Passover and thus a festival day: The Festival of First Fruits. Why is this significant? The Bible tells us Jesus is the First Fruits of those who rise from the dead. (1 Corinthians 15:20). So there's nothing accidental about God the Father choosing this particular day for Jesus' Resurrection! The story tells of two disciples walking and talking about all that had happened in the last week. They had heard bits and pieces. Their hopes were dashed at the brutal crucifixion of Jesus and the tragic reality seemed to be that everything they had pinned their hopes and lives upon was gone and dead with Jesus' death.  As they talked Jesus Himself came up and walked with them, but they were kept from recognizing Him. Why was God so intentional for them to have this conversation without realizing who they were talking to? We will find out…. Pastor brings in some holy speculation about who one of the disciples, Cleopas, may have been. He shares that Cleopas may be none other that Jesus' step uncle (His step father, Joseph's, brother.) As Jesus joins them He asks what they are discussing.  Incredulously they can't believe He doesn't know and they share what had happened in the previous days, ending with all they knew that had happened that morning with the women finding the empty tomb, Peter and John verifying the tomb really was empty, other women seeing and speaking with angels, Mary Magdalene encountering Jesus, Himself. And how they don't even know what to think about it all. Then Jesus says, “ ‘How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?' And then beginning with Moses, Jesus explained to them what was said in the Scriptures about Himself.”  What an amazing conversation this had to have been! Here they are hearing Jesus share about Himself, all while having no idea that it's actually Him with them! Pastor walks through Scriptures pointing out several possible sections of the Old Testament that Jesus may have shared that day with them as they walked. Whatever Jesus shared, it must have been a fascinating conversation because the Bible is a story that proclaims the goodness and faithfulness of God to an unfaithful creation.  It is the story that reminds us that the Living God will keep His Word even though we human beings so often fail. It is a story that tells there is One to come who will redeem and deliver and rule forever. How many times were these two disciples stopped in their tracks as they listened to Jesus explain the scriptures to them that day.  As they arrived at one of their houses, they invited Jesus to stay with them saying, “Please stay with us!”  What a great request…. Have you asked Jesus that? “Please stay with me.”  Have you invited Him by saying “I want to know You more and more!”  Jesus answered their request by staying with them and He will answer your request the same way! When Jesus was at the table in their home, He took the bread, gave thanks, broke it and passed it out and as He did so, their eyes were opened and they recognized who He was, and then Jesus disappeared. Back to our question: Why was God so intentional for them to have this conversation without realizing who they were talking to? We were able to see how they had accepted what they had heard on that walk - before they even realized who they had been walking with! The Bible says in Romans 10:17, “Faith come from hearing and hearing comes through the Word of the God.” Their faith blossomed as they heard Jesus speak the Words of God in the Old Testament, shared through Moses and the other prophets. When we hear the Word (the Bible) today - it is still a Word that comes from the very lips of God and that Word: transforms, renews, gives hope, gives peace, brings power, and it changes everything! After Jesus disappeared from their sight, they asked each other, “were not our hearts burning within as He talked with us and opened the scripture to us!” This is still true today - the Holy Spirit opens our minds to see the truth of the Living God. This is not religion - this is real life This is not a matter of ritual, this is a matter of living in a relationship with the Living God who loves us all and gave His Son for us all. After Jesus disappeared they returned at once to Jerusalem and found the eleven Disciples, telling them it was true the Lord had indeed risen!  They shared all they had experienced that day. This story isn't just an amazing story - this story is a clear testimony about God's desire for us and about His claim on our lives because the One who created us also bought us back, redeeming us with the blood of His Son. Our God comes looking for us. He comes seeking to walk with us, just as he sought to walk with these two. And He offers to us just what He offered them: Healing Hope Forgiveness Life Assurance Peace Power Joy He is the Risen One! And He is coming back! And so we say, “Amen, Come, Lord Jesus! Pastor ends with a reading of Hebrews 13:20-21 “Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. This book written by Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group, small group or home group study.

Scripture - Luke 19:28-44 Triumph and Tragedy Today's teaching on Jesus crying is found only in the book of Luke. It takes place on the Tenth Day of Nissan - a day we call Palm Sunday. We will explore the triumph and the tragedy of that day and what it says about the heart of God, along with what it says to us about our need for Jesus. Jesus rode into Jerusalem on the Tenth Day of Nissan - a significant day - the day the Jewish people choose and set aside the lambs in preparation for their slaughter later in the week. It's on this very day that Jesus, our Passover Lamb was being “set aside,” designated, as the sacrifice for the sins of not only the Jews but the entire world. As He rides into Jerusalem He is announcing and presenting Himself as the Lamb of God who offers Himself for us for the sins of the world as our Passover Lamb.  Truly a day of triumph and tragedy.  Triumph because God wins! Tragedy because of the incredible price Jesus would pay. 500 years earlier the prophet Zechariah announced, “See Jerusalem, your King comes to you riding on a donkey's colt.” This is just how this triumphal entry happens - it's Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey as King. Why say king? In the ancient world if a king came in warfare he rode into town on a horse.  But when a king came in peace he rode in on a donkey.  And so, Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey, as King of Israel, just as Zechariah had said. There's something fascinating about donkeys.  Every donkey has on it's back the shape of a cross - a stripe of dark hair running down its spine and another across its shoulders making a cross upon its back.  As Jesus rode into Jerusalem He rode on a cross…. As Jesus overlooks Jerusalem His eyes fill with tears, the word in the greek has the connotation of sobbing. Jesus was sobbing with overwhelm at what he knew lay ahead, by what He knew of the Father's love, by what he knew of the cost of human rebellion that lay ahead. Jesus wept over Jerusalem knowing that although crowds acclaimed him there were many that hated Him and who were plotting His death. So many had rejected Him and Jesus knew the judgement that lay ahead for Jerusalem. He saw the consequences of their rebellion and He sobbed, “If only you had recognized what would bring you peace.”  Jesus is the Prince of Peace. Verse 44 tells of the judgement that awaits Jerusalem. This is just what happened within a generation of Jesus speaking these words. Ancient historical writings on the destruction of Israel in 70AD tell of the horrors of Jerusalem's complete destruction and of the deaths of a million Jewish people. And Jesus wept with the knowledge of what was to come. Looking at the past and looking at the present, we can see and understand: Jesus is who He claimed to be, He is the Messiah and Savior. He desires that no one perishes and that all come to the knowledge of the truth. God's purpose in judgement is to draw us back to Himself. For all people, this scripture today reminds us how serious it is to turn one's back on the Living God. The story of the Tenth Day of Nissan shows both Triumph and Tragedy.     Tragedy - of all Jesus would endure over the next 6 days, the tragedy of what awaited Jerusalem.     Triumph - of an empty tomb, the triumph of a returning Savior. The Son of God endured tragedy for us that we might triumph forever! And even in the tragedies of life God points us to Jesus who brings eternal victory and triumph!  Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. This book written by Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group, small group or home group study.

 In this episode, we delve into the meaning of the gospel, which translates to "good news," as presented in the book of Romans. The discussion explores the seeming contradiction in the first two chapters of Romans, where the emphasis on humanity's failings and the weight of sin paints a picture of bad news. However, this groundwork serves to highlight the profoundness of the gospel's message. Paul's approach is likened to a jeweler displaying a diamond against a dark background—by first showing the darkness, the brilliance of grace and salvation shines even brighter. Watch all our sermons on our youtube channel "Flipside Christian Church"Join us in person 9:00am & 10:30am every Sunday morning.37193 Ave 12 #3h, Madera, CA 93636For more visit us at flipside.churchFor more podcasts visit flipsidepodcasts.transistor.fm

Scripture - Luke 19:1-10, Romans 6:23, Romans 12:2, Titus 2:13-14 “Inner Healing”  Today's teaching is on the familiar story of Zacchaeus, but come along with us as we discover some new insights. Zacchaeus was a very wealthy chief tax collector. Tax collectors were despised by people for their greed, for cheating people out of more than what was owed and they were considered to be traitors. Matthew, one of Jesus' disciples, had also been a tax collector. This makes one wonder if Matthew and Zacchaeus had known each other professionally… Was Zacchaeus curious about Jesus because Matthew had talked about Him? Was Zacchaeus curious to learn more about this Jesus person who had changed Matthew's life? Zacchaeus was a short man and was unable to see over the crowd gathered around Jesus, so he ran ahead and climbed up a sycamore fig tree and from there he could see Jesus coming. Zaccheaus wanted to see Jesus, BUT what he didn't realize is that Jesus wanted to see him! Our Lord is one who seeks people out. That day He wanted to show Zacchaeus His incredible love, His great mercy and His life-changing power.  And still today, Jesus desires to seek us out too and show us all that He showed Zacchaeus that day.  Jesus calls Zacchaeus down from the tree and tells him He's staying at his house.  Zacchaeus comes down from the tree and gladly welcomes Jesus to his home. What was going through Zacchaeus' mind?     How did He know my name?     Did Matthew tip Him off?     Was he feeling shock that Jesus was speaking directly to him?     Was he wondering why he was singled out? We aren't told about the conversation Jesus and Zacchaeus had, we don't know how long Jesus stayed, what they eat, or how many others were there. All that Luke shares is this, the part that really matters:  “But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, ‘Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.'” Luke 19:8-10 Jesus came to seek and to save the lost….Such beautiful and powerful words! He came to save us from our sin. Through belief in Him, we receive life forever with Him.  Jesus came to:     1.    Save us from sin's punishment (sin brings death - sin must be paid for - “for the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23). The blood of Jesus pays for our sin.     2.    Save us from sin's grip - Just what we see with Zacchaeus - a man in the grip of greed - and Jesus broke that grip. Jesus can and will brake whatever has a grip on our lives.  Zacchaeus' story assures us of Jesus' desire to give us inner healing. Jesus frees us from sin's punishment, but also has the power to free us from sin's grip.   We will never be perfect, the only Perfect One is Jesus, but there is to be progress in our lives because through Christ we are no longer under the control of sin. Biblical Truths found in this story: AGREEMENT - Zacchaeus agreed with what Jesus told him. Zacchaeus agreed Jesus came to seek and to save him.  When we receive Jesus by faith we are changed people, just like Zacchaeus. We have passed from death to life and are no longer controlled by the flesh. Instead we are living by the Spirit.  He gives us the power to be changed by Him.  Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” There is a battle raging in us between the Spirit of God and the old nature, but there is power that we can find when in AGREEMENT with who Jesus is and what He says. ACTIVITY - Zacchaeus engaged in godly activity - he acted immediately after hearing Jesus - not after thinking about it for a while - but immediately! He gave 1/2 of all he had to the poor and for those he cheated he said he'd restore them four-fold. God calls us to godly activity when we believe in Jesus as our Savior. And our faith calls forth action. Examples:     ⁃    Rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 4:4)     ⁃    Let love be genuine (Romans 12:9)     ⁃    Don't let the sun go down on your anger (Ephesians 4:26)     ⁃    Be kind and considerate (Philippians 2:3-4)     ⁃    Be gentle (Philippians 4:5) Real faith acts!  We are not saved because of our actions, but because we are saved, our actions change. ATTITUDE - Zacchaeus has a great attitude and is zealous to do what is right. He was eager to do what is good. Titus 2:13-14 “while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.”  This needs to be our attitude - “eager to do what is good.” We are to have an attitude that says “Lord, here am I, use me, send me. I gladly and eagerly will do what you've called me to do.” The Bible does not tell us the rest of the story…. But what we DO know is that Jesus came to seek out Zacchaeus that day. We know that Zacchaeus was a changed man that day. And we know that Jesus seeks us out too and His desire is to change us, and to do a work in us. May we agree and act and have the right attitude!Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. This book written by Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group, small group or home group study.

Scripture - Luke 18:1-8; “The Widow's Plea”  The Parable: “The Widow's Plea” is an earthly narrative with a heavenly meaning - We should always pray and not give up! This is a story that lets us know that there will be challenges and difficulties that we all will face. But in this parable Jesus is teaching us to endure - to not give up and to do so through prayer - leaning into Him and trusting Him. The parable begins be telling of a judge that didn't know God and didn't care at all about people - and there's a widow that continues to go to the judge for justice against her adversary. Over and over again and again she goes to him and each time he refuses to help her until he gets so tired of her continually pursuing him for justice that he finally gives in so she would leave him alone. Jesus goes on, “and will not God bring about justice for His chosen ones who cry out to Him day and night? Will He keep putting them off?” Many interpret this to mean we need to be relentless in pounding on God's door for what is just and what is right and what we need. But what Jesus is actually doing is challenging us to compare what we know of the unjust judge to what we know about him, the righteous judge,The Living God, who cares for us all. The unjust judge doesn't care about this widow, he only care about himself. God is NOT like that!  GOD CARES! Jesus is saying that if even an unjust judge responds to pleas, don't you know God who sees His children as precious will care so much more and will respond to His children. God is good and gracious and nothing like this unjust judge. When things are rough and it seems that God is not listening, that is NOT the case! For our God is a righteous and caring judge! Let's compare the two: The Judge     ⁃    Unjust     ⁃    Unloving     ⁃    Uncaring     ⁃    Merciless     ⁃    Evil     ⁃    Rude God     ⁃    Just     ⁃    Loving     ⁃    Caring     ⁃    Merciful     ⁃    Good     ⁃    Gracious God wants us to always pray and not give up. The Lord wants us to bring our needs to Him, our concerns and worries to Him, our struggles, our cries and our pleas and to understand how good He is. PRAYER MAKES GOD REAL! When we talk to God and bring to Him the cares and concerns of our lives - His presence becomes real - in that circumstance we are living by faith! We're not giving up hope - We're praying by faith to the Living God. Jesus finishes with, “I tell you, He (The Father) will see that they (His children) get justice, and suddenly. However, when the Son of Man (Jesus) comes, will He find faith on earth?” Jesus is saying here for us not to give up hope.  Don't allow the threats of opposition and attacks of the enemy to drive us away from Him, Living God who alone delivers us. Don't allow the opposition of others to take our eyes off the goodness of God and the love of the Lord Jesus Christ. Hang on to your faith!!! Hang on to your faith as never before! How?     1.    Pray to God - because prayer makes Him real!     2.    Listen to and meditate on His Word     3.    Be encouraged by fellow believers, those who have faith to live for God. Pastor shares a powerful story of God's victory in pain from the book “Walk On” by Ben Malcolmson. In Summary, hang onto the Lord!! It's a battle out there, but our God has won the victory. We will win because Jesus has already won!! Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. This book written by Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group, small group or home group study.

Luke 17:11-19; “Top 10%”  Today's teaching is a story from the last weeks of Jesus' life before His arrest, crucifixion, death and resurrection.  This story speaks with immediacy, power and direction to us today. Top 10% - what comes to mind is human achievement- we want to be at the top, but God sees things much differently.  When God speaks of the top 10% He's talking about those who walk by faith in Him and who are filled with gratitude and thanksgiving. So let's explore today's story in light of how God sees the top 10%. The story is about 10 desperate individuals with a need that was met by Jesus and that will show us the importance of recognizing what God has done and giving Him the glory. As Jesus is traveling towards Jerusalem 10 men with leprosy cry out to Him, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!”  Jesus!  Have mercy on us! And Jesus has mercy - He is merciful and He simply responds in love and mercy to them with, “Go show yourselves to the priests.” (Because according to the Law - If you had leprosy and it went away - you had to go through an 8 day purification ritual in order to be called “clean.”) Jesus' command to go show the priests was a way of saying - even though you have leprosy - act like you are healed! Before healing began Jesus told them to act healed. Jesus is saying act on what God has declared! And then as they walked to Jerusalem they were healed! The Lord Jesus has delivered us from our sins by His death and resurrection. He provides life forever and He calls us not to simply sit around and wait for God to do stuff in our lives, He calls us to act on what God has declared.  We are to learn from these 10 lepers that it is important to respond to what the Lord says! Jesus speaks and He calls us to act! As we read on with the story - 1 of the 10 when he saw he was healed - turned back and went to Jesus praising God in a loud voice and fell in thanks at Jesus' feet. 10 were healed but only 1 truly understood that healing is more than just healing of the body. Healing is healing of the soul, and the spirit and the mind and that is what Jesus does.  He heals the ultimate need of every person - and that is healing of the disease of the soul that destroys us - and only Jesus brings this healing as the the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. This healed leper showed himself to be in the top 10 because he realized what mattered most was giving thanks and praise to God and coming to know Jesus. God calls us to gratitude and thanksgiving. Our attitude affects the way we live.  He calls us to be people filled with gratitude because of Jesus Christ and what He's done for us. Gratitude for the greatest gift of all. Gratitude verses:     ⁃    1 Corinthians 15:57     ⁃    2 Corinthians 9:15     ⁃    Colossians 3:17 Gratitude changes us! Walk by faith practicing gratitude to God the Father through Jesus Christ. Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. This book written by Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group, small group or home group study.

Luke 2:22-40; “Simeon and Anna”  What is the meaning of the name, Jesus? Do we fully comprehend what this name means? In Hebrew it is Yeshua. It literally means Yehovah, Jehovah, Yahweh saves. “God Saves.” This is the name given to Jesus.  A precious name. “God Saves” is a powerful name, a mighty name and a remarkable name, a name that blesses all who call upon Him, a name that declares God is the One who saves us. Every time we speak His name we are reminded of the truth that God has broken into our world and stepped in to save us. We need this divine intervention. It is God who saves us and not we ourselves. In today's story we see Jesus, Mary and Joseph at the temple and are introduced to Simeon. The Holy Spirit told him he would not die before seeing the Messiah. Simeon was in the temple as Mary, Joseph and Jesus entered and Simeon was prompted by the Holy Spirit to know this baby was the promised Savior.  Simeon takes Jesus in his arms and speaks, “Sovereign Lord, now dismiss your servant in peace, for my eyes have seen the salvation which you have prepared in the sight of all nations, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and the glory of your people Israel.” Simeon was thrilled to be holding God's promised Savior in his arms and to know God's promise was right before his very eyes. Then Simeon blessed them and to Mary he added, “This child is destined to cause the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against so that the thoughts of hearts will be revealed.” The good news: God is fulfilling all He promised, but there's also a warning that the fulfillment of the promise of a Savior comes at a great cost - that many will not receive what God so graciously offers. This is a prophetic word about the later years of Jesus' ministry. Jesus will grow in favor with God and men, but when He begins His ministry there will be a division that will occur because many will not receive what Jesus has to offer. This is still true today. Many will not admit their need for a Savior. God loves humble people. He opposes the proud and pride will get in the way of many from believing. Simeon also prophecies to Mary, “And a sword will pierce your own soul.” Words that were fulfilled for Mary - a mother that experienced unbelievable sorrow and incredible grief. She would watch her son die on the cross, see Him rejected by many and Simeon gives her a heads up on what's to come. In verse 36 - We are introduced to Anna. Anna was a prophet who also recognized Jesus as the promised Messiah and comes up to the group. She gives thanks to God and spoke about Jesus to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Israel. What a day of joy this was as the realization of God's promises are being fulfilled in Jesus. This is also for us today, an indication of what is to come. Just as they yearned for Jesus to come, we too yearn for His return.  Through the fulfillment of the promise of a Savior - We too can trust the promised fulfillment of His return. This day IS coming! There will be a day for us like there was for Simeon and Anna when we behold the One whom the Father promised. And like Anna and Simeon we too will rejoice!  This story reminds us that God keeps His word! Just as they saw baby Jesus face to face, we too on His return will see Him face to face in His full glory! And there will be endless rejoicing! Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. This book written by Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group, small group or home group study.

Luke 1:57-80; “John's Story”  Pastor Dodge explores Luke's account of John the Baptist in today's study.  It's a story that starts with the miraculous pregnancy of Elizabeth who was well past her child-bearing years, yet God was faithful to His promise to her husband Zechariah. In today's text John is born and it is the 8th day after his birth, the day that the baby boy would be circumcised and named.  Their family and friends are sure the baby boy will be named a family name after Zechariah. However Elizabeth follows through with what the angel Gabriel had told her husband when the angel had announced they would have a son. And Elizabeth states the child would be named John just as the angel told them to name him. Since the angel's visit to Zechariah he had become unable to speak because he doubted the word of God through the angel. As family is saying how can you name him John, Zechariah writes on his tablet that the child's name is John and he is instantly healed and able to speak.  He praises the Lord and everyone joins in thanking God for this miraculous healing. The story is a reminder that God has never stopped doing things. He has never stopped acting. He is moving constantly and revealing himself to men, women and children.  He is the Living God. He is near and He does these things still today! Zechariah is a priest - with some holy speculation - it is possible he is the one who may have circumcised John that day.  We read that Zechariah is filled with the Holy Spirit.  From the beginning of the Last Days which began with the coming of Jesus when Mary became pregnant God has been filling people with His Holy Spirit - men, women, young and old.  Not just then, 2000 years ago, but still today. Zechariah is filled with the Holy Spirit and  then prophecies the coming of the Messiah, the fulfillment of God promises of a Redeemer.  Zechariah goes on to prophecy over his son as the one to prepare the way for the coming Messiah. John grew up and became strong in the Spirit. He lived in the wilderness until he began to appear publicly to the people of Israel. We read in all 4 gospels about  JOHN'S CHARACTER     1.     Prophetic - John was prophetic in his actions and his behavior.  Wearing a camel hair garment and a leather belt - an outfit that harkened back to the prophet Elijah - John like Elijah calls people back to God.       2.    Courageous - John called all to come back to God. He even told the religious. He told soldiers, prostitutes, tax collectors, even a king. John did not back down from courageously speaking God's of all needing a Savior.     3.    Humble - John knew his life belonged to God. He knew his life was not his own.  We too are called to be humble before God because a humble heart is open to receive what God desires to impart. JOHN'S MESSAGE     1.     Sin - John taught the unpopular message that God takes sin seriously. Sin is rebellion against God.  All have sinned and all of us need a Savior.  Sin is treason against God.     2.    Repentance - repentance is the proper response to recognizing that “I am a sinner.”  Repentance is a 180 degree turn around - it's an about face in one's life and it is turning back to God. Repentance is also a change of mind in the way we look at our sinful nature.     3.    Salvation - John taught that God keeps His word and redeems us by sending His Son to save us all through faith in Jesus. John points us to Jesus - our Savior who brings us Salvation. In our lives we too are to prepare the way for Jesus' return, He is coming, and so we prepare by living for Him alone.     ⁃    Prepared.       ⁃    Changed.      ⁃    Renewed.     ⁃    Inviting Jesus into our daily living.     ⁃    Reflecting on Him.     ⁃    Living out of the Good News.   He transforms us  and on the last day  He will raise us! Until then we are to serve, follow and grow in Him who is Lord of our lives. Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. This book written by Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group, small group or home group study.

Darren Parry summarizes how the Book of Mormon continuously testifies of Jesus Christ in the latest Book of Mormon Gospel Study. Darren Parry is the former Chairman of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation.… The post Finding Christ throughout the Book of Mormon: Gospel Study with Darren Parry appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

Darren Parry summarizes how the Book of Mormon continuously testifies of Jesus Christ in the latest Book of Mormon Gospel Study. Darren Parry is the former Chairman of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation.… The post Finding Christ throughout the Book of Mormon: Gospel Study with Darren Parry appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

Luke 1:39-56; “Elizabeth's Story”  The story of Mary's visit to Elizabeth is often a forgotten story. But what it shows us should not be ignored. It is life-changing, powerful, dynamic and has impact on the way we understand the Bible, the way we perceive and understand God and how he moves in our lives today.  Earlier in the chapter we learned Elizabeth was now about 6 months pregnant with John the Baptist and Mary is just newly pregnant with Jesus. When Mary arrives and greets Elizabeth, Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit, In this first chapter of Luke the Holy Spirit is mentioned three times. Why is this significant? When we look at the Old Testament - which contains 23,145 verses, the Holy Spirit is only mentioned a total of 3 times. But now in the New Testament in this first chapter of Luke in the first 41 verses, the Holy Spirit is mentioned three times! What this indicates is a profound truth: with the coming of Jesus, EVERYTHING CHANGES! It ushers in the age of the Spirit that will continue until Jesus' return. The three Holy Spirit incidents:         Mary's told by the angel announcing her to be Jesus' mother, that the Holy Spirit will come upon her.          Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit as Mary arrives at her home and greets her.         John in Elizabeth's womb leaps in the power of the Holy Spirit. In points one and two we see they are women receiving the Spirit, this prompts us to look to see if a woman being filled with the Holy Spirit is mentioned in the Old Testament and there is not a mention of that.  So let's look at Joel 2:28-29 “I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days.” Here we read God will pour out His Spirit on both men AND women!  In Luke 1 - we see this prophetic word coming true. God is pouring out His Spirit on young (Mary) and old (Elizabeth) and both men and women. God's Spirit in fullness to all! At this point everything changes because God is now dealing with His people in a dynamic NEW WAY by pouring out his Spirit in abundance. Why? Because the Messiah has come - within the womb of Mary! it is in Him that the Spirit comes and we are freed to live in this power. Additionally, we hear in our story that as Mary greets Elizabeth and Elizabeth is filled with the Spirit, the baby (John) inside her womb leaped and was filled with the Spirit. Elizabeth immediately responds: “Blessed are you among women, Mary, blessed is the child (Jesus) you will bear. But why am I so favored that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your voice reached my ears, my womb leaped for joy!” The angel foretold this about Elizabeth's baby (John the Baptist) when he announced to Zechariah (Elizabeth's husband) he would have a son: “for he (John) will be great in the sight of God…and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born!"  Luke 1:15 All these pieces coming together! What happens next? Looking  at Joel 2:28-29 we see everything prophesied happening EXCEPT for this line: “your sons and daughters will prophesy” but in the very next verse of our story what happens? Mary prophesies in a beautiful song, The Magnificat. (Luke 1:46-56) In this song of praise to God verses 51-55 are also prophetic. Pastor Dodge, using Hebrew context, goes on to explain and describe how these verses are prophecy. (Our hope is that you will listen to this most interesting and revelatory insight on Mary's song).  Jesus ushered in the age of the Spirit when He came to earth and even while still in Mary's womb this is still true. Just like Mary, Elizabeth and John, we too are told we are filled with the Holy Spirit. It's through the Spirit that we can say, “Jesus is Lord!” (1 Corinthians 12:3 “Therefore I want you to know that… no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.”) In this story we see the evidence of God keeping His word. Every promise of God's will be fulfilled. We read Mary stayed three months with Elizabeth and oh the conversations they must have had! Our Christian faith is personal and communal: shared with families, friends, and others. When God's people talk together about faith and what God is doing, we are encouraging each other in our faith and exalting God's Name together! Just as Mary and Elizabeth did 2,000 years ago! Our website –  https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. This book written by Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group, small group or home group study.

from Luke 3:10-18The crowds asked John the Baptist,“What should we do?”He said to them in reply,“Whoever has two cloaksshould share with the person who has none. And whoever has food should do likewise.”Even tax collectors came to be baptized and they said to him,“Teacher, what should we do?”He answered them, “Stop collecting more than what is prescribed.”Soldiers also asked him,“And what is it that we should do?”He told them,“Do not practice extortion, do not falsely accuse anyone, and be satisfied with your wages.” ...Read the full scripture passage: bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121524.cfmHeart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryEvangelize Seekers. Inspire Believers. Foster Disciples.--Join Heart to Heart: htoh.us/subscribeSupport Heart to Heart: htoh.us/donate

Originally streamed on December 10, 2023, this episode of Dialogue Gospel Study features Daniel O. McClellan as he uses data to unravel understandings in Revelation. Dan McClellan, known for his tagline “Data over dogma,” has built a… The post (Rebroadcast) Unraveling Revelations with Data: Dialogue Gospel Study with Daniel O. McClellan appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

Originally streamed on December 10, 2023, this episode of Dialogue Gospel Study features Daniel O. McClellan as he uses data to unravel understandings in Revelation. Dan McClellan, known for his tagline “Data over dogma,” has built a… The post (Rebroadcast) Unraveling Revelations with Data: Dialogue Gospel Study with Daniel O. McClellan appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

Fr. Jim teaches that if John the Baptist came today he would not mince words. He would call a sin, a sin and challenge each of us to identify the sin within our lives and urge us to turn away. Click play above to hear Fr. Jim's full Advent message.Luke 3:1-6In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was tetrarch of Galilee,and his brother Philip tetrarch of the regionof Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias was tetrarch of Abilene, during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the desert.John went throughout the whole region of the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins, as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah:    A voice of one crying out in the desert:    “Prepare the way of the Lord,        make straight his paths.    Every valley shall be filled        and every mountain and hill shall be made low.    The winding roads shall be made straight,        and the rough ways made smooth,    and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.”Read all the scriptures for this Sunday: bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120824.cfmHeart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryEvangelize Seekers. Inspire Believers. Foster Disciples.--Join Heart to Heart: htoh.us/subscribeSupport Heart to Heart: htoh.us/donate

Luke 1:26-38; “Mary's Story”  The Christmas story is familiar to most of us, but Pastor Dodge gives us a fresh view of this well know story over the next few weeks beginning today with the story of Mary, Jesus' mother. Mary's name means bitter.  She was born in an obscure village, raised in a difficult time when the children of Israel were in bondage to Roman master. BUT her Son would not only redeem Israel - He would redeem the world. Very little is know about Mary. What we know is that she was a virgin born in the town of Nazareth, a town not even mentioned in the Old Testament. However, God chose an obscure little town and an unknown young woman to be the carriers of His promised Savior. Though Mary's name means bitter, God changes things! He turns bitterness into joy! A unique birth, a unique mother and a unique child!   Today, Christmas is under attack. Yet perhaps it's more than that. The battle is larger than the attack on Christmas, it's a battle that goes back to the garden of Eden. It's not a war on Christmas, it's a war on God. The human race, since our fall, has been hostile to the things of God. But! The magnitude of God's love is that He breaks into our world even when we are His enemies. Let us pray that God would move in the lives of people to reveal His incredible goodness. This well-known story shows us many things:     ⁃    God breaks into the life of Mary and He still breaks into our lives today.     ⁃    Mary willingly listened to God's message to her through the angel Gabriel and His Word is still active and alive today!     ⁃    Gabriel tells her what to name her son. She is to name Him Jesus, meaning “God saves” and God continues to save His people today through faith in Christ Jesus.     ⁃    Mary asked “I am a virgin, how will this be?” Gabriel responded through the Holy Spirit and the angel goes on to say in Luke 1:37 “For no word from God will ever fail.” God's promises are assured. He does the impossible!  He does what no human being can accomplish - our redemption! Jesus alone redeems and saves.  Through the power of the Holy Spirit using the Virgin Mary to conceive and bear a Son - God's one and only Son - Jesus breaks into our world with His saving grace! Today's reading ends with Mary saying, “I am the Lord's servant, may your word to me be fulfilled” and then the angel left her. Such a powerful example of trust - she hears the word of God, receives it, believes it and rejoices in it. So much to learn from Mary. She's not just our Savior's mother, she is an amazing role model for any who desire to be servants of the Lord.  Things that stand out about Mary that we can apply in our own lives as well:     1.    Devout Faith - trusted God even when what Gabriel told her seemed impossible.  We too are called to devout faith in God today.     2.    Humility - humble individual who knew it wasn't about her, but about God. A truth for us to internalize too.     3.    Obedience - she listened, obeyed and followed God. Faith saves and when we have faith we will obey!  Faith shows itself in obedience.     4.    Worship - sing praises- thank God for what He has done. As we celebrate Christmas we're not simply looking back to what happened long ago at Jesus' first coming. We're also looking forward to His final coming when He returns - when He reigns and rules forevermore! Check out our website –   https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group. small group or home group Bible study.

Luke 14:1-24; “Dinner Disaster” Today's story is of Jesus attending a dinner with His enemies - who have an agenda and it's not a good one. Yet Jesus has a heart even for those who oppose Him.  Jesus is invited to the house of a prominent Pharisee on a Sabbath day and they are all watching Him. There in front of Him they have placed a very sick man with a serious health condition of being severely swollen.  Keep in mind:  It's a Sabbath day Previously Jesus had done healings on the Sabbath and the synagogue leaders were extremely angry  No “work” was to be done on a Sabbath  Healings were considered “work”  Entrapment:  We can see this sick man placed in front of Jesus, is a set up for entrapment so that they could say Jesus broke the Sabbath by healing someone.  Jesus recognizes the trap and He addresses it head on saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not?” But they did not answer Him, so Jesus healed the man and sent him on his way. They all witnessed it.  What was that like to see the healing of this very sick man? As the swelling disappears and he goes away whole and healed. No longer critically ill. Can you imagine the murmurs and whispers of the dinner guests?  Jesus' concern and love for the lost (including the religious who in reality do not know the Living God) compels Him to take the conversation further because he loves the Pharisees and those that are hostile to Him.  So Jesus asks them, “If one of you has a child or ox that falls into a well on a Sabbath day will you not immediately pull it out?” And the Pharisees made no response.  As Jesus looks out over the table where people had worked to get the best seat reclining near the host, He continues with a parable. The summary of the parable is that you don't go to a party and take the seat of honor, as you'll just embarrass yourself. The lesson is one of humility before God and man and as Jesus continues the story He speaks these powerful words: “for all those who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”  Rebuttal:  Jesus is rebutting their arrogance, their pride, their self-aggrandizement. He's saying - when you really know the Living God it affects how you behave. Not that we are saved by our behavior - but that when we know the love of God and the forgiveness He offers in Christ Jesus, the Messiah, it changes our behavior.  When we truly understand how much God loves us and how much Jesus paid to redeem us, that news changes our attitude about ourselves and we realize we bring nothing to the heavenly party.  It's not about what I can achieve, it's about what God offers and therefore my attitude changes and how I act changes and what I think changes.  The story continues with Jesus challenging the host to not invite friends who will simply reciprocate the invitation to his next party. Rather Jesus says to invite the poor, lame, crippled, and blind and then he will be blessed. Though they can't repay him for the invitation - Jesus adds that he would be repaid at Chris's return.  Diversion:  A dinner guest attempts to change the subject, clear the air, calm the tensions and says, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.” What does Jesus respond with?  With this profound story about an owner inviting many guests to his banquet. When it was time for the party he sent his servant out to let those who had been invited that it was now time to come.But all invitees had excuses. So the host ordered his servant to bring in the poor, crippled, blind and the lame and after doing so, the servant told the owner there was still room left. So the Master sends out the servant into the country roads to compel more to come so that his house would be full. Jesus ends the story with the owner saying that not one of those who were invited and changed their minds in coming would get a taste of the banquet.  Jesus is saying this is what's happened with His own people. The very one God invited rejected God and refused to accept all that He was offering through Jesus.  These people were religious but they didn't really have a heart for God. And when you reject Jesus, you reject the Father who sent Him.  This story is not just for 1st century Israel - these words are for us today. Jesus is telling us that nothing is to get in the way of our relationship with the Living God through faith in Jesus. We are not to allow anything to get in the way of God's purpose through Christ for each one of us.  There are eternal consequences to rejecting God's mercy through Jesus, but God is faithful and works to show them then and us now the consequences of rejecting Him, rejecting the open door to coming to Him, rejecting His love for each of us.  There is a forever party coming! The joy of life forever in the presence of God! We don't want to miss the heavenly banquet! Surrender to the Living God. Jesus is summoning us to Himself. He offers life to all who repent and believe. He desires all to experience the joy of daily following Him.  Check out our website – everything we offer is FREE!! https://www.awakeusnow.com  Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper  Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01  St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life.  This study is great for large group, small group or home group Bible study.

Amy Watkins Jensen looks at the story of the brother of Jared anew, in this latest Gospel Study lesson Amy Watkins Jensen is a teacher and writer with a BA in Spanish Teaching and an… The post Believing in Miracles: Gospel Study with Amy Watkins Jensen appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

Amy Watkins Jensen looks at the story of the brother of Jared anew, in this latest Gospel Study lesson Amy Watkins Jensen is a teacher and writer with a BA in Spanish Teaching and an… The post Believing in Miracles: Gospel Study with Amy Watkins Jensen appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

Luke 13:10-17; “Real Meets Ritual” Jesus is the Real Deal! He is the Messiah. He really desires that we know Him more and more and spend eternity with Him. So what does the Real Jesus have to say to us today?  Today's story in Luke tells how Jesus was in a synagogue teaching and there was a woman in attendance that had been crippled by a spirit for 18 years and was bent over and could not straighten up. (Note not possessed by a spirit but crippled by a spirit.) Luke recognizes that there is a spiritual dimension to our world. This was not just a physical illness.  Jesus does something surprising. He calls the woman to come up to Him. He understands her plight, says, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” The Word of Jesus is a word of power! When He speaks, even the demonic spirits listen!  He laid His hands on her. Don't you wonder what that was like to experience the loving hands of Jesus on her? Then she immediately straightened up and praised God because she was healed but also because she understood the Living God, come to earth, spoke a word of power that defeated the 18 years demonic hold.  How does this story call us today to re-evaluate our worldview and what is real? Challenge #1 Will we accept a Biblical or Western worldview?  Today the Western worldview dominates even within Christian circles. The Bible tells us there is an ongoing spiritual war. There are demons, though not responsible for every difficulty or trial, we are to be discerning, to seek God first, trusting that he is real and can be relied upon.  We are called to adopt a Biblical worldview and allow the scriptures to guide and direct our thinking, to allow God's Word to speak into our lives.  Our God is real and desires to move in real ways in our lives. He is challenging us in the Western world to set aside a ritual understanding of the Christian faith and to adopt a Biblical worldview, to take him seriously.  Continuing with today's story - after seeing the miraculous healing (done by Jesus on the Sabbath) the synagogue leaders are angry - Basically, after seeing divine power manifested before them, the leaders' reaction is that this is not what we do  in our worship time! The leaders say there are 6 other days in the week for healing, so he told the people to come then, we are not to work (heal) on the Sabbath. Thereby accusing Jesus of sinning by doing the healing on the Sabbath.  However, Jesus does not let this stand and He says, “You hypocrites! Don't you each on the Sabbath untie (unbind) your ox and donkey from the stall and walk them to water.” (This was considered work on the Sabbath). Jesus continues, “Then shouldn't this woman bound 18 years be set free on the Sabbath?” Meaning, they will loosen the bonds on their animals on the Sabbath but then turn around and say it's wrong to loosen the bonds of this woman on the Sabbath.  It's not about the rituals, it's about encountering the Living God, the Real God who: Transforms Heals  Forgives  Is gracious and merciful  And who calls His children to Real Life  Challenge #2  Will we receive and believe the Real Jesus or will we simply go along with the church culture?  Church culture today says come to church and then go back to life as usual. It says accept yourself the way you are and don't judge anything or anyone. It says it doesn't matter what you do - just be happy. Basically it says, give God lip service and then go back to your life.  This is not what God calls us to - His message is a message of truth and it is life changing! When we receive Him as Savior our lives are forever changed. We too are delivered like the woman bound by the demonic spirit we are delivered from demonic spirits, demonic teachings and demonic beliefs.  Jesus is asking us to move beyond a mere church culture and recognize Him for who he is, our Savior, Healer, Deliverer, our Lord, the One who frees us from the bonds of sin, death and the devil and gives instead Life and Hope!  Today our culture calls truth evil and lies good. Jesus is asking us to turn our back on that kind of culture and instead to hear His voice calling us to Himself.  He calls us from ritual to relationship!  He does the miraculous:  Redeems  Restores  Renews And He offers Real Life!  Check out our website – everything we offer is FREE!! https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of the-gospels-upper  Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life.  This study is great for large group, small group or home group Bible study.

Luke 10:38-42; the story of Lazarus' sisters, Mary and Martha. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by tasks and activities, but Jesus says that what really matters, what really lasts, is knowing Him and listening to Him. Jesus came to the village of Bethany where Mary, Martha and Lazarus lived. Martha invited Jesus and those with Him into their home. As Jesus taught them, Mary sat at his feet listening to what he said.  Observation: Every time Mary is mentioned in the Bible she is at Jesus' feet.  Mary longed to be near Jesus and to listen to His voice and to internalize His goodness, His mercy and His love. At Jesus' feet listening is where we want to be, too. Sitting at His feet listening closely to what He's saying develops our relationship with Him.  Do we desire to be at Jesus' feet? Are we ready to hear what He has to say to us and how He longs to pour into us His love, mercy and goodness and how He longs to give us guidance and direction.  Martha was distracted by the preparations that needed to be made for having guests in the house and she said to Jesus, “Lord, don't You care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”  Many look at this story and condemn Martha - but Martha is a devout believer and she makes one of the most powerful declarations of Jesus' identity found in the gospels. In John 11:27 she says, “Lord, I believe You are the Messiah, the Son of God who has come into the world.” Martha understood that Jesus is the fulfillment of everything the prophets foretold.  Yet we can learn from Martha: she is upset and angry. Have you ever been in Martha's spot? She goes to Jesus, not her sister.  Martha is obviously an outspoken person. There is nothing wrong with being outspoken. But what matters most is speaking ONLY what God would have us speak.  Even with Martha's words to Jesus about her sister, Jesus responds kindly: “Martha, Martha, You are worried about many things, but few things are needed - indeed only one. Mary has chosen better and it will not be taken from her.” There's no rebuke here, but Jesus does go to the heart of the issue and the issue is Martha's heart. She wanted to be a good hostess but that wasn't the most important thing. The most important thing was listening to Jesus and getting to know Him even more.  Observation: What matters is knowing Jesus and listening to Him.  It's not about how much we've achieved, how much we've accomplished. It's not about how well organized we are, how busy we have been and not about how successful we are. What matters is knowing Jesus and listening to Him.  John 10:14 Jesus says, “My sheep know Me.”  John 10”27-28 “My sheep listen to My voice, they follow Me. No one will take them from Me.”  It is one thing to know what Jesus did, but it's another thing to believe He did it for me. That's true faith!  It's easy to become distracted with things that have no abiding value or to concentrate on things that are important but not paramount. What the Bible tells us is above all else seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness and everything else will be given.  The story of Mary and Martha gives us a real life picture of listening to Jesus and getting to know Him and putting that into practice. Jesus desires ALL of us to have a close enduring relationship with Him.  Are we working on our relationship with Jesus?  Are we spending time in His presence or is he an after-thought? Are we receiving what He wants to give us or are we like Martha and upset about so many other things?  Pastor shares a book reference: “God's Favorite Place On Earth” by Frank Viola. The book addresses the difficulties of life and addresses when we feel betrayed by people and how God allows these times so that He can strengthen and mold us and to teach us to rely on Him as never before.  Another point the author makes in the book is admitting he was often like Martha busy trying to get things done, but he says, “I learned how to work for God. Then I learned how to work with God. Finally, I learned how to watch God work!” Frank Viola This story teaches us that life's not about being busy for God and life's not about learning ABOUT Him. It's actually about knowing Him personally, it's about watching Him move in powerful ways as we sit at His feet. It's the best place to be!!!  Check out our website – everything we offer is FREE!! https://www.awakeusnow.com  Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper  Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01  St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life.  This study is great for large group, small group or home group Bible study.

A Bible study on Mark 13:24-32, the Gospel reading for The Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle B.

In this powerful episode of Dialogue Gospel Study, Rebecca de Schweinitz explores Mormon 1-6, delving into themes of resilience, disappointment, and faith amidst turmoil. Recorded shortly after the 2024 presidential election, Rebecca and participants address… The post The End Of The World As We Know It: Gospel Study with Rebecca De Schweinitz appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

In this powerful episode of Dialogue Gospel Study, Rebecca de Schweinitz explores Mormon 1-6, delving into themes of resilience, disappointment, and faith amidst turmoil. Recorded shortly after the 2024 presidential election, Rebecca and participants address… The post The End Of The World As We Know It: Gospel Study with Rebecca De Schweinitz appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

Today's Gospel Study concludes: "Remember saints are not perfect, they just try harder to do what the Lord asks." As you reflect on the gospel story of the widow who gave all of what she had to the Temple, ask yourself, "How can I try harder to do what the Lord is asking of me?"from Mark 12:38-44In the course of his teaching Jesus said to the crowds,"Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robesand accept greetings in the marketplaces,seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets.They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretextrecite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation."Read the full scripture passage: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/111024.cfmHeart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryEvangelize Seekers. Inspire Believers. Foster Disciples.--Join Heart to Heart: htoh.us/subscribeSupport Heart to Heart: htoh.us/donate

Luke 10:17-21; "Eternal Victory" It's easy to get discouraged when we look around at the world, but today's lesson will encourage us to look at what Jesus says and allow that to speak into our hearts. Everything Jesus did was focused on God the Father's divine purpose, God's will. Jesus in the last months of His life ministry is training His disciples to share the Good News throughout Israel and throughout the world. Jesus sends out 72 commissioning them by twos in towns in the area. As these groups begin to come back from their mission trips, they returned with joy at how people had listened and expressed excitement in people being delivered even from demons. Jesus replies to them, "I saw satan fall" meaning satan's days are numbered because not even the powers of hell can stand up in the power of Jesus. This is still true today. We are in spiritual warfare, cultural war with struggles of darkness against the forces of God. This battle can be discouraging to believers, but Jesus is still saying to us today, "I saw satan fall!" Jesus' word and in the Holy Spirit, there is power to defeat the enemy! Jesus is still in control! There is power in His name - do not despair, do not give up. He is good, He is God and he is powerful and He will bring about everything He has promised that will happen! He is going to win the victory! Jesus knew that 2000 years ago and He knows that today. He IS the Victor! Jesus Christ conquers! Jesus Christ is victorious! It is very easy to become preoccupied with the tragedies of life and miss out on the incredible things that God is doing. Today he is moving around the world in remarkable ways - Here in the western world we have lost sight of that as our western culture moves further and further away from its biblical foundations and roots. But at the same time western culture has been moving away from God - the rest of the world has been coming to Him. Pastor shares statistics and information from the book, "To The Ends Of The Earth: Pentecostalism and the Transformation of World Christianity" by Alan Heaton Anderson, Oxford Press. In 1950: 80% of the world's Christians lived in Europe and North America. In 2005: the majority of Christians lived in Asia, Africa and Latin America. In Africa: 1900 - 9 million believers in Jesus 1950 - 60 million believers in Jesus 2005 - 393 million believers in Jesus God is doing remarkable things! This is the greatest revival of the human race! Jesus said, "This gospel of the kingdom will be preached throughout the nations as a testimony and then the end will come." The very thing Jesus predicted and that scriptures declare - is coming true in our day and our time! What was seemingly impossible 2000 years ago in Jesus being shared around the world, is a living reality today! We are seeing scripture come to fulfillment in our lifetimes. God keeps His word and even in the darkest times He shows Himself to be God - to be good - to long for His people to return to Him. He desires to bless us and fill us with His Holy Spirit. He longs to call the Western church to the very reality that the church around the world is seeing today! That reality is that God is near, can be trusted, that His Holy Spirit is at work and can be relied upon and that He is the God that does mighty things! NOTHING HAS CHANGED! HE IS STILL THE SAME! He gives life transforming power anchored in Jesus' death and resurrection. Jesus ends today's text with, "Rejoice that your names are written in heaven!!" When we come to repentance we recognize our need for a Savior, that in our own strength we can't come to God, it's only through receiving Jesus as our Savior. We do not need to be filled with despair. God says if we know Jesus we do not have to fear for the future. We can live with joy and peace, hope and assurance in knowing God will keep every promise, He will bring all to fulfillment. We have our names written in heaven! Jesus went on to say, "I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things form the wise and learned and revealed them to little children." What does Jesus mean by this? In western culture we are taught that the most important thing is personal knowledge, wisdom and education; but Jesus says real wisdom comes in becoming a child and recognizing that we don't bring anything at all to this heavenly party. God gives everything and like a child I need to be totally dependent upon Him. By human wisdom no one will ever draw near to God and by human intelligence no one will ever come to know the Lord Jesus Christ. "Lord, raise up workers for the harvest! We ask that what you are doing elsewhere, You do here! Bring Awakening. Bring revival!" Check out our website – everything we offer is FREE!! https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group. small group or home group Bible study. Check out this episode!

A Bible study on Mark 12:38-44, the Gospel reading for The Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle B.

Luke 9:51-56; “Fire From Heaven” Our study today starts with a verse stating that Jesus “resolutely set out for Jerusalem.” Jesus was, without any hesitation, heading to Jerusalem, into the very city in which He knew He would suffer, be crucified and die. Knowing full well what was ahead - He resolutely - without hesitation - headed to Jerusalem. No shrinking back! Jesus was relentless in accomplishing what the Father desires. What does the Father desire? He desires that ALL come to know Him, His love, mercy, forgiveness and life transforming power. God's desire is that ALL people repent and come to a knowledge of Jesus our Savior. And so to follow through on God's heart, Jesus is relentless in pursuing the Father's will and relentless in His pursuit of each one of us. As we explore the next verses we read that the people in Samaria did not welcome Jesus because He was headed for Jerusalem, and they didn't like where He was going nor did they like the people in that city. Doesn't this make you wonder how many people have missed out on all Jesus has to offer because they are offended at something He has said, or done or something that the Bible declares. REJECTION: Jesus was rejected over and over again, by: 1. Israel's leaders 2. His own family 3. Samaritans How do we feel when we are rejected? Bitter? Angry? A desire to get even? Retaliate? The Samaritan's rejection of Jesus elicited this response from Jesus' disciples, James and John: “Lord, do You want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?” This is not what Jesus wanted and He rebuked them but there would be a day God would send fire from heaven and that was at Pentecost, 50 days after Jesus' ascension, when the Holy Spirit was poured out. On that day people in Samaria were filled with the Holy Spirit and drawn to the knowledge of Jesus the Messiah. Transformed. Changed forever! Gaining life, forgiveness, hope, peace, and joy. That is precisely what Jesus is still doing and desires to do today, to draw us to Himself, transform us from within and to give us joy and hope because He set His face toward Jerusalem and He went there for each one of US! Jesus rebuked James and John that day, but in the days to come He would also transform them. This is all taking place about 6 months before Jesus' death and resurrection and about 8 months before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Jesus is determined to accomplish all the Father desires and He is still determined to do that today in each of our lives. His desire is to fill us with His Holy Spirit, to know Him and to show His incredible love in the way we treat others. Jesus is working to change the world one person at a time, beginning with you and me! There also is a lesson in not growing weary - maybe we are looking around and wondering how much longer the Lord will put up with all the garbage going on in the world. But then we see the testimony of Jesus' life and how much our Savior gave of himself to accomplish our salvation. When we see this we too are changed. We realize our attitudes change as well. What God calls us to do through the life and ministry and resurrection of Jesus, is to pray for a different kind of Fire. Holy Fire. The fire of the Holy Spirit! To forgive as we are forgiven in Christ. To love as we are loved in Christ. To serve as Christ has served us. God's heart is that people return to Him. God's heart is for Revival! Awakening! What we see in Jesus is the Father heart! Check out our website – everything we offer is FREE!! https:// www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group. small group or home group Bible study.

In Fr. Jim's words: "I believe that there is nothing more important for us to hear in our entire life than the Gospel we just heard. Nothing." Listen to the full Gospel Study for the rest of his inspiring message.from Mark 12:28b-34One of the scribes came to Jesus and asked him,"Which is the first of all the commandments?" Jesus replied, "The first is this:Hear, O Israel!The Lord our God is Lord alone!You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart,with all your soul, with all your mind,and with all your strength.The second is this:You shall love your neighbor as yourself.There is no other commandment greater than these."  ...Read the full scripture passage: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/110324.cfmHeart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryEvangelize Seekers. Inspire Believers. Foster Disciples.--Join Heart to Heart: htoh.us/subscribeSupport Heart to Heart: htoh.us/donate

A Bible study on Mark 12:28b-34, the Gospel reading for The Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle B.

"Jesus, son of David, have pity on me...Son of David, have pity on me." This is what Bartimeaus calls out to Jesus. Fr. Jim reminds us that Bartimeaus is one of the most important figures in the Gospel because he recognizes Jesus as the one who saves, even before the disciples do.from Mark 10:46-52As Jesus was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a sizable crowd,Bartimaeus, a blind man, the son of Timaeus,sat by the roadside begging.On hearing that it was Jesus of Nazareth,he began to cry out and say,"Jesus, son of David, have pity on me."And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he kept calling out all the more,"Son of David, have pity on me."Jesus stopped and said, "Call him."So they called the blind man, saying to him,"Take courage; get up, Jesus is calling you."Read the full scripture passage: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/102724.cfmHeart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryEvangelize Seekers. Inspire Believers. Foster Disciples.--Join Heart to Heart: htoh.us/subscribeSupport Heart to Heart: htoh.us/donate

Luke 7:11-17: “Death-Defier” Jesus is the TRUE Death-Defier, not by doing things that are wild and crazy but by doing things that destroy death, that defy the power of sin and death and decay and the devil. Today's story is a death defying story that's a precursor of what's to come! It's a story of Jesus raising a person from the dead. This story is only in the Gospel of Luke. Here's the story - as Jesus and His disciples are reaching the town of Nain, there is a funeral procession of mourners carrying a boy to burial, an only son of a widow. And that day in Nain everything changed! When Jesus saw the woman His heart went out to her. Jesus walked up to the coffin and said to the dead boy, ”Young man, I say to You, Get up!” Then the dead boy sat up alive and talked and people praised God! Interestingly, hundreds of years earlier, this same kind of miracle took place in nearly this same place where Elisha had raised a dead Shulamite woman. This group of mourners now rejoicing would have know that story and are seeing the Scriptures come to life again! They cry out, “God has come to help His people!” They had no idea at the depth of the truth of their words, for God truly had come - Yes God in Jesus had truly come! And He came to “help His people!” Let's take a look at Jesus and funerals. He attended several in many cities: 1. Three recorded in the Gospels: Main, Capernaum and Bethany 2. Jesus spoke directly to the deceased and the dead responded because Jesus' Word has power 3. All three dead people were resurrected! Romans 4:17 God who gives life to the dead, calls into being things that were not! Jesus is the Living God come to earth! This story is a picture of what is to come - it gives us a picture of what is going to happen on a majestic and incredible scale at the end of days. The dead will hear His voice and we will rise! The story is a harbinger of things to come! Death-Defying Truths: 1. Jesus' resurrection is the guarantee to our resurrection (1 Peter 1:3) 2. Our future is not as disembodied spirits. We are going to be bodily raised (1 Corinthians 15:442ff) 3. We will live forever in a New Creation (Isaiah 65:17) Our destiny is to be raised! And to experience a new and perfect creation. Our future is to know the Living God as never before; face to face. 4. This our constant encouragement (1 Thessalonians 4:13) Jesus will return! Therefore encourage each other with these words! This is the heart of the Christian message - Jesus is returning and we will be raised to eternal life with Him. This story was not merely about compassion to a mom, it was about the assurance to all who saw it that day and to those who have read/heard the story in the centuries that have followed. This is the story that shows us the assurance of our resurrection. If you don't know Jesus, we invite you to read the Scriptures and discover who He is! The same Jesus who raised the widow's son is the same Jesus who went to the cross for each one of us, paid the full price for our sin, and by His resurrection He assures us that by faith in Him we too will be raised in the end of days! You don't want to miss this! The day is coming when the dead will all hear His voice and we will be changed in the twinkling of an eye at the last trumpet! That's God's promise!!! And that's our future!! Check out our website – everything we offer is FREE!! https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group. small group or home group Bible study.

A Bible study on Mark 10:46-52, the Gospel reading for The Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle B.

James and John ask Jesus to sit at his right and at his left. Little do they know what Jesus will soon go through and who will be on his left and right as he enters his glory. Fr. Jim reminds us that so often we too make long term commitments without knowing the full reality or consequences.from Mark 10:35-45James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus and said to him,"Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you." He replied, "What do you wish me to do for you?" They answered him, "Grant that in your glorywe may sit one at your right and the other at your left." Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the cup that I drinkor be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?" They said to him, "We can." Jesus said to them, "The cup that I drink, you will drink,and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized;but to sit at my right or at my left is not mine to givebut is for those for whom it has been prepared." ... Read the full scripture passage: bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/102024.cfmHeart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryEvangelize Seekers. Inspire Believers. Foster Disciples.--Join Heart to Heart: htoh.us/subscribeSupport Heart to Heart: htoh.us/donate

Luke 4:14-30: “Hometown Visit.” This story of Jesus going to His hometown appears to be a different trip than those told in the other gospels. This is a story of those listening to Jesus in Nazareth (His hometown) in comparison to those hearing Jesus in Galilee and who willingly received what Jesus had to offer. But those in Nazareth because of their pride and arrogance and boastfulness and being skeptical, did not get to experience what Jesus has to give us! Jesus was born in Bethlehem but Nazareth is the town Jesus grew up in. As He returned home for a visit, He went to the synagogue as was His regular practice on the Sabbath. Here is some information about synagogues in Jesus' day: 1. Opened with singing (mainly Psalms 145-150) 2. Recitation of the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4) 3. Recitation of the Tefillah (18 benedictions and prayers) 4. Reading of the Scriptures (torah, prophets and writings) 5. Message of Interpretation of what was read 6. The Aaronic Benediction Jesus comes home to a town that had heard all the remarkable stories of Him since He's been gone and He's at the synagogue and He does the Reading. He chooses a prophetic word from Isaiah 58 and Isaiah 61 and closes with “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” What He's saying is that He's the one the prophets predicted and the home town people, having heard the storied of what He had been doing in the other town, and there is initial excitement. Jesus gives them these Words of Grace in the Reading: 1. Good News to the poor 2. Freedom for prisoners 3. Sight for the blind 4. Deliverance from oppression 5. Debts paid - Jubilee Jesus words of grace and hope are for us still today: 1. Good News of the Gospel message of what Jesus has done for us 2. Freedom from bondage to sin 3. Sight given for our spiritual blindness 4. Deliverance from brokenness 5. Our Debt to God for our sins is paid in full for us by Jesus through faith After Jesus delivers His Words of Grace the crowd began to question and doubt what He was saying and they became offended at His words. So Jesus confronts those doubting who He is. The crowd wanted proof that Jesus was who He said He was - but Jesus' response is that He sees into their hearts and that prophets aren't accepted in their home towns. They were acting like the Israelites. Jesus proceeds to preach a message on the time of Elijah and Elisha - a time in history much like now in America - a time of national apostasy and spiritual poverty. Jesus knows what's in our hearts and souls still today. We live in a nation that has traditionally thought of itself as a Christian nation and yet our roots have become just a veneer of Christianity. We have made our own rules, done what we want to do, followed our own gods of money, wealth and success, believed what we want to and redefined what God has said, establishing our own morality and it is destroying us from within. After Jesus' teaching about the times of Elijah and Elisha The people were furious and wanted to get rid of Jesus, to kill Him. Jesus spoke words of Truth and to those who are humble and repentant - His Words bring joy, life, hope and purpose - and they still do today. God knows our hearts and to those who refuse to listen the result is anger. But He doesn't give up when people won't listen or when they turn their backs on Him. He continues to reach out to the proud - He desires to bring restoration. He continues to reach out to those who are broken-hearted and discouraged - He desires to bring healing. And to those stuck in sin and darkness and addiction - He desires to bring freedom, restoration and renewal. May we be humble and contrite before Him and may God bring that kind of revival and renewal and awakening in our nation. Hearts turning back to Him! He comes to those who hear His voice! May we be listening always!!! Check out our website – everything we offer is FREE!! https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group. small group or home group Bible study.

A Bible study on Mark 10:35-45, the Gospel reading for The Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle B.

Fara Anderson Sneddon takes on a journey through music and sermon on grief, connection and healing it this recent Gospel Study lesson. Fara Anderson Sneddon is a teacher, writer, and independent scholar. She received her… The post Grief, Connection, Healing: Gospel Study with Fara Anderson Sneddon appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

Fara Anderson Sneddon takes on a journey through music and sermon on grief, connection and healing it this recent Gospel Study lesson. Fara Anderson Sneddon is a teacher, writer, and independent scholar. She received her… The post Grief, Connection and Healing: Gospel Study with Fara Anderson Sneddon appeared first on Dialogue Journal.

Luke 2:41-52: “Jesus at the Age of Twelve.” Today we ask, “Why is this story of Jesus at age 12 in the Bible?” There is no mention of Jesus from age 2 -30 except this one story in the Gospel of Luke. Here's how this story goes: In the one and only account we have of Jesus as a child we're told he went with His parents to Jerusalem to worship and praise the Lord at Passover. This story is a foreshadowing of what is to come. The only time He's mentioned as a child is at the Feast of the Passover. Jesus is described elsewhere in Hebrew Scriptures as the Passover Lamb who was slain for us and now as a 12 year old He and we get a glimpse of what is to come. After the Feast, unbeknownst to His parents, Jesus had stayed in Jerusalem when the rest of the family was heading home. When Mary and Joseph realized Jesus was not together with the family caravan, they turned back to Jerusalem to find Him. Three days later they find Him in the Temple Courts sitting with the teachers and asking and answering questions. Did you pick up on the prophetic significance of “three days?” And it is on the third day His parents find Him alive and well. It was the third day in the grave when Jesus rises to life.. the grave could not hold Him! Jesus' parents found Him asking and answering questions of the teachers, who were amazed at His answers and knowledge. This too is significant for us today, because Jesus invites questions. If we look at the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament we'll see He is asking and answering question frequently! God delights in conversation and He speaks to the deepest needs of our hearts. When Jesus' parents found Him they questioned Him about not having been with them. Jesus answers, “Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's House.” This answer compels us ask, “Why is this significant?” Think about this: These are the first recorded words of Jesus in the Bible! Why are they His first recorded words? Note that Jesus calls God, “My Father.” Even as a 12 year old He understands who He is. He is announcing the day the prophets spoke of has arrived! The Messiah has come! The Redeemer of all is here. But Mary and Joseph didn't understand what Jesus was saying - It wasn't until after Jesus' resurrection that people understand who He is, what He accomplishes and what He offers to each of us. The story ends with Jesus obediently returning to Nazareth with His parents. He displays submissive obedience, modeling this for each of us and showing us what is expected from each of us. The standout piece of this story is that Jesus has given us the right to speak of God as “Our Father.” So much is in this short story - not only is there a glimpse of what Jesus was like as a boy, it gives us insight into His love and compassion in asking and answering us and is a glimpse of what God desires in us in conversation and obedience. Jesus wasn't just an extraordinary child - He is the very Son of God! Savior! And coming King! Check out our website – everything we offer is FREE!! https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group. small group or home group Bible study.

A rich man comes to Jesus and kneeling before him, asks "Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" The rich man asks the right question but doesn't like Jesus' answer. Fr. Jim challenges us: What is God asking us to tithe that is holding us back from Him?from Mark 10:17-30As Jesus was setting out on a journey, a man ran up,knelt down before him, and asked him,"Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"Jesus answered him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone.You know the commandments: You shall not kill;you shall not commit adultery;you shall not steal;you shall not bear false witness;you shall not defraud;honor your father and your mother." He replied and said to him,"Teacher, all of these I have observed from my youth."Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him,"You are lacking in one thing.Go, sell what you have, and give to the poorand you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me." At that statement his face fell,and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. ...Read the full scripture passage: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101324.cfmHeart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryInspire Believers. Evangelize Seekers. Foster Disciples.--https://htoh.us/subscribehttps://htoh.us/donate

A Bible study on Mark 10:17-30, the Gospel reading for The Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle B.

Mark 10:2-16 addresses the difficult topic of marriage, divorce and re-marriage. In Jesus' time, divorce was very different than it is today. A man could divorce his wife for any reason and with no warning. Jesus is tested with this reality and responds that cavalierly ending a marriage is a sin. Listen as Fr. Jim teaches about the history behind this Gospel and the pastoral realities we face today.from Mark 10:2-16The Pharisees approached Jesus and asked,"Is it lawful for a husband to divorce his wife?" They were testing him.He said to them in reply, "What did Moses command you?" They replied,"Moses permitted a husband to write a bill of divorceand dismiss her."But Jesus told them,"Because of the hardness of your heartshe wrote you this commandment. But from the beginning of creation, God made them male and female. For this reason a man shall leave his father and motherand be joined to his wife,and the two shall become one flesh.So they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together,no human being must separate." In the house the disciples again questioned Jesus about this. He said to them,"Whoever divorces his wife and marries anothercommits adultery against her;and if she divorces her husband and marries another,she commits adultery."Read the full scripture passage: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/100624.cfmHeart to Heart Catholic Media MinistryInspire Believers. Evangelize Seekers. Foster Disciples.--https://htoh.us/subscribehttps://htoh.us/donate

Luke 1:1-25. Today we begin a study of the Gospel of Luke with a look at Zechariah who was a devout man who thought he was prepared to meet the Living God - but reacted with fear and doubt when God showed up. God graciously gave him a second chance to respond with faith, and extends that same grace to us when we falter and fail. This story of Zechariah is a story that still speaks to us today. There are lessons to learn from this story - All scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correction and training in righteousness so that we can be thoroughly equipped for every good work. - God wants us to KNOW HIM not just know about him. - When we read the scriptures God desires that we not only look at it and say, “what happened?” He desires that we look at the story and say, “What does this say to me today?” In examining what this story has to do with us today, we start by going through what we know about Zechariah: 1. He was a devout priest 2. He was praying 3. He knew this was from God 4. He knew the Scriptures As Zechariah was met by the angel of the Lord as he did the priestly duties that day, when He actually had an encounter with the Angel of the Lord he had a difficult time accepting what he was told. At the root of his doubt was Zechariah's desire to have God fit into his personal perception of who God was and how God should talk to him and what God should do. Basically, Zechariah wanted to make God conform to what he desired rather than allowing God to be who He is and to speak directly into his life. What God desires to do is reveal Himself to us, rather than have us go along with our own personal perception of Him. We try to put God into a box, like Zechariah did, and to contain God, but God says, “NO!” And He reveals His true self to us. He reveals who He is. God desires we come to Him in humility, repentant in spirit and willing to receive what He gives and that means that we accept one of the most important truths that anyone can know and act on and that is: - God is god and we are not - God is god and I am not God is: Supernatural All powerful Present everywhere And when He speaks he means it! His Word is true and it can be trusted! We have been made in the image of a Holy God and we owe Him everything: - My life - My future - My family - My wealth - My daily activities We must not underestimate God. Zechariah heard great news that day from the angel and he just could not accept what God was saying. Zechariah made one of the biggest mistakes of his life and underestimated God. He said, “How can this be?” Because in his mind it just did not seem possible. BUT with God NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE! Divine Promises brought to Zechariah by the Angel of the Lord: - Fear not! - Answered prayers - Good News of joy - Holy Spirit outpouring - Repentance and return - Power - Awakening Zechariah thought he was too old to receive what the Lord was giving him, but we are NEVER too old for any of the good things of God!!! God seeks to build a trusting faith in each of us that causes us to acknowledge, “I am the Lord's servant and I will do what He says.” Zechariah missed the boat that day, but God still came through and He took Zechariah's doubts and reluctance and He brought it all about for His glory and Zechariah's good. God is faithful. He keeps His Word! Check out our website – everything we offer is FREE!! https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life. This study is great for large group. small group or home group Bible study.

A Bible study on Mark 10:2-16, the Gospel reading for The Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle B.

A Bible study on Mark 9:38-48, the Gospel reading for The Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle B.

A Bible study on Mark 9:30-37, the Gospel reading for The Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle B.