Podcasts about grace god

Rom. 11:1-10. 5/11/25.  An expositional sermon from the letter to the Romans.

Sermon series: Means of Grace: God's Help for Sinners and SufferersWe often think of Baptism and the Lord's Supper as rituals—but they are so much more. They are visible signs of God's invisible grace, given by Jesus Himself to assure us of His love. In our doubts, struggles, and failures, the sacraments speak louder than words. Through them, God says to us, “I am your God, and you are my people”.Preacher: Tan Huai TzeDate: 11 May 2025

Sermon series: Means of Grace: God's Help for Sinners and SufferersPrayer is one of the gifts God has given us to increase and strengthen our faith. In this passage, we see that prayer is possible only because of Christ, that it is for the Spirit to move our heart's gaze to Christ and His blessings, and that we might have power to live as God's people in all areas of life.Preacher: Tan Huai TzeDate: 4 May 2025

Forgiveness is total or not at all. Can we let go of all attachment to grievances and wanting things to be different than what we are given? The best way to let go of what we do not want is to stop fighting it, and focus on the good conditions of Grace that hold out the peace and joy of God for us. Can we "completely let go?" Total forgiveness lets us receive the Grace God has in store for us. As we enter into the realm of the Silent Mind, Grace comes rushing to us. Then we are certain that Life Takes Care of us. We must completely forgive everyone and everything to receive this total, Divine Care.  Our mistakes have no conesequence when we let Forgiveness rest upon all of them. We see the face of Christ in us and others instead of our mistakes. We cannot blame others for getting results we deem undesirable. These results are Lessons we would learn to release and forgive. Grace is our natural inheritance. But we have to put in our diligence to master complete forgiveness. AMEN. 

Sermon series: Means of Grace: God's Help for Sinners and SufferersGod has given us His authoritative Word, the Bible, so that we may know salvation in Jesus Christ, as well as how we can please our Lord. On top of that, He has blessed us with the gift of preaching so that we may hear what God has to say to us today. All of these point us to the greatest treasure Himself, Jesus Christ, who was the Word made flesh and in whom is eternal life.Preacher: Joel SimDate: 27 April 2025

Send us a textWhat does it really mean to be saved by grace?In this soul-stirring episode of the Unshakable podcast, Pastor Ben Cooper unpacks the revolutionary truth behind God's undeserved favor—a truth that doesn't just change theology, but transforms lives, identities, and hearts. Grace isn't a concept for scholars. It's the foundation of the gospel and the doorway to a life of peace and purpose.Grace tells us that our relationship with God doesn't depend on our performance, perfection, or past, but entirely on Christ's finished work at the cross. One speaker shares with raw honesty: “I know me, and I wouldn't choose me. But God chose me.” That powerful statement reflects the heart of grace—it's unearned, unstoppable, and deeply personal.We journey through Ephesians 2, where Scripture reveals that we were spiritually dead, incapable of saving ourselves. And yet, God—rich in mercy—made us alive in Christ. Even before the world began, He chose us, knowing every mistake we would ever make. That's not just grace; that's eternal love in action.The episode highlights stories of real people transformed by grace, including one man whose encounter with Jesus changed his spiritual and mental health. Even his doctor was stunned by the change. We also hear from those in prison ministry, where grace is often received with open arms by those society has written off. One inmate shares: “I'm so glad I was put in prison because I found freedom.” It's a reminder that grace often finds us in the lowest places—and lifts us higher than we imagined possible.We then apply Philippians 4, discovering how to overcome anxiety by turning to prayer and focusing our thoughts on truth instead of fear. Grace isn't just about salvation—it's about daily peace, steady joy, and renewed minds.The episode concludes with a time of communion, symbolizing the power of the blood of Christ. Just as the Israelites were covered during Passover, we too are protected—fully covered by grace, forever.Have you truly experienced this grace? It's not reserved for the perfect or the religious. It's for the broken, the doubting, the searching. If you're ready to stop trying to earn what's already been given, this episode is for you.Support the showhttps://www.pastorbencooper.co.uk/https://www.rbchristianradio.net/

GRACE:  God's  Riches At Christ's ExpenseFor God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:21Continuing in the message series, “Words that Heal My Soul"   We are going to look at Jesus and the final statements He made while on the cross— really meaningful words that are deeply healing to hear. Words, that when truly understood and absorbed change our lives.  Let's listen.Support the show IN NEED OF PRAYER? SEND US YOUR PRAYER REQUESTS ONLINE JOIN A LIFEGROUP CONTRIBUTE TO OUR CHURCH AND MINISTRIES

Title: Qualities of an Elder Text: Acts 20:13-27 FCF: We all struggle when our leaders are ungodly. Prop: Because an Elder must be and continue to be blameless, so all Elders and would be Elders must endure in these same qualities. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to Acts chapter 20. In a moment we'll read from the Legacy Standard Bible starting in verse 13. You can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. Last week we noted Luke's shift in focus as his book hastens toward its close. Since the remainder of the book is concerning Paul's travels to Jerusalem, his imprisonment, his travel to Rome, and imprisonment there – Luke now shifts his attention to the character, person, and instructions of Paul. He began this last week by focusing on Paul's top priority. To the expense of himself, Paul desired greatly to instruct God's people in His ways. This was his primary objective. Such clarity in purpose reveals to us how all church leaders should prioritize the spiritual instruction of God's people. Today we will lean even more into the discussion of what godly church leaders should be, as Paul summons the Elders of Ephesus to himself to give them parting words of instruction before he goes on to Jerusalem. Let's see what he has to say. Please stand with me to give honor to and to focus on the reading of the Word of God. Invocation: Most Holy God, we come to You as Your children seeking wisdom and instruction from Your Word. We praise You Father for giving through Your Son and empowering through Your Spirit, undershepherds who care for the flock that You have claimed as Your own. We praise You for sending watchmen among us to watch out for wolves and to feed and to guide us. We pray that You would use this text this morning to equip us to understand and pursue all that You have given us regarding godly Elders. And we pray desperately that You would continue to bless us with men who love You and are called to serve. We ask this in Jesus' name amen. Transition: Let's get right to the text this morning. I.) Paul demonstrated the qualities necessary for all church leaders, so all Elders and would be Elders must endure in these same qualities. (13-21) a. [Slide 2] 13 – But we, going ahead to the ship, set sail for Assos (AH-sohs), intending from there to take Paul on board; for so he had arranged it, intending himself to go by land. 14 - And when he met us at Assos, we took him on board and came to Mitylene (my-tell-EEE- knee). 15 - And sailing from there, we arrived the following day opposite Chios (KEY-ohs); and the next day we crossed over to Samos (SAM-ahs); and the day following we came to Miletus (my-LEE-tuhs). 16 - For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be in Jerusalem, if possible, on the day of Pentecost. 17 - Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called to him the elders of the church. i. [Slide 3] On the screen behind me is the travel map of Paul and his 8 companions. ii. Luke records that by the plan of Paul, he desired to go by land from Troas to meet them in Assos. iii. Since this was Paul's plan all along, and we aren't told why, it is likely some unknown-to-us reason that Paul desired to travel by land on the first leg of the journey to Assos (AH-sohs). iv. More than likely, this took a couple days for Paul to catch up. v. Then they all sailed to Mitylene (my-tih-LEE-knee). Then the next day they came to what Luke calls the opposite of Chios (KEY-ohs). By this he probably intends the eastern side of the island of Chios as the map depicts. vi. Then the next day they came over to Samos (SAM-ahs), which is the unnamed island on the bottom. vii. Then the following day they came to Miletus (my-LEE-tuhs). viii. Miletus is about 25 miles south of Ephesus. ix. It has probably been about two years since Paul was in Ephesus at this point. x. Here Paul is faced with a dilemma. He loves the church of Ephesus and the Elders whom he helped to appoint and guide in that city. But he knew that if he stopped in to Asia to meet with them, he would be held up there. Most likely because of the love they had for him and he for them. xi. But, Paul is being led by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem and to make it before Pentecost. xii. Most likely, Pentecost is only a few weeks away when he lands in Miletus. xiii. Nevertheless, Paul cannot ignore the church in Ephesus completely. He had spent 3 years ministering to them. So, what is he to do? xiv. Paul decides to send for the Ephesian Elders to come and meet him. b. [Slide 4] 18 - And when they had come to him, he said to them, i. From verse 18 through verse 35 we have recorded for us one of the fullest expressions in the scriptures of what Elders are to be and what Elders are to do. ii. We will take half of his exhortation this week and next week we will look at the rest. iii. The first half is mostly Paul instructing them from his own example. c. [Slide 5] “You yourselves know, from the first day that I set foot in Asia, how I was with you the whole time, i. The very first thing Paul exhorts them with is his own example of how he ministered in the city of Ephesus. ii. From their own observation and experience, they know that Paul was with them the whole time. iii. This probably is not referring to Paul staying with someone, or not leaving the city. iv. More likely this is Paul indicating that he lived his life before them. They observed him in the most basic functions of human existence all the way to worship services, and evangelism, and discipleship, and preaching, and prayer, and everything in-between. v. He was not separated from them but was with them. vi. But what did they observe of him while he was with them? d. [Slide 6] 19 - serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials which came upon me through the plots of the Jews; i. They saw Paul under pressure. ii. [Slide 7] And the first pressure they observed Paul endure was his own flesh battling against his pedigree. 1. Paul had every reason to be proud. He began a successful church in the city of Ephesus. He taught for three years avoiding persecution from the Ephesians for almost the entire stay. 2. He was a good speaker. He was wise. He was followed by many. 3. Not only that but he was a Pharisee of the Pharisees, a Roman citizen, and well-respected by many powerful people. 4. But in the midst of this the Ephesian Elders observed that Paul served the Lord in all humility. 5. Paul put the needs of others above the needs of himself. 6. He was meek, he was lowly. He was a servant to all. 7. He did not demand that others wait on him, instead he became the servant to them for the sake of Christ, his Lord. 8. He did not expect due compensation for all his work like the traveling philosophers and preachers of his time. Instead, he was content with whatever he had. 9. In this way, Paul served the Lord, as merely a slave to His master's will. iii. [Slide 8] The second pressure they observed Paul endure was the weight of his mission. 1. Paul served the Lord with tears. 2. Paul was passionate about the mission and the message that he was sent by Christ to give. 3. Paul wept with them and plead with them to follow the Lord. 4. Paul cried with tears of joy as they came to Christ and turned from their sin and their idols. 5. Paul no doubt shed many tears when many of them confessed their former dalliances with magic and as they burned their books in rejecting their former ways, never to go back. 6. Paul mourned the tragedy of those who denied Christ, many of whom were his own kinsmen. 7. Paul wept over believers who chose to continue in sin and did not desire to be corrected, like with the Corinthians. 8. Paul sobbed tears of joy when the Corinthians repented and returned. 9. Paul cried over false teachers making shipwreck of believers' faith. 10. Truly Paul's mission was weighty. iv. [Slide 9] The third pressure they observed in Paul was the persecution from the Jews. 1. Paul served the Lord even with his trials. 2. He rejoiced in suffering at the hands of the Jews. For His own Savior had suffered also at the hands of the Jews. 3. He endured the many plots from them all over the empire and even in Ephesus, to destroy him and the message he taught. 4. Through it all, Paul's eyes were on Christ, knowing that he could endure all of it and more through Christ who gives him strength. v. Paul did not bow to the pressures he faced. He had excellent moral character and spiritual strength. He was blameless. vi. But what did he do with such noble character? e. [Slide 10] 20 - how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly and from house to house, i. Against secret societies, hidden knowledge cults, Gnosticism, free masonry, scientology, Mormonism and any other religious group that trickles out secret knowledge to those who are loyal… ii. Paul did not withdraw or shy away from sharing with them everything he knew that was profitable for them. Everything that was expedient to them, he told them. iii. These mystery cults and philosophical and religious gurus ensure that you will continue to support them or their faith by holding back information you need, until you have sufficiently paid for it. iv. Not Paul. v. Paul gave them everything he knew that could help them. vi. He knew a good deal more about the law and about Judaism and about being a Pharisee. But this was not expedient to them. It was not profitable. But the things of Christ? The way of faith? The grace of God? vii. Of these, he told them everything he could. viii. And he didn't do it privately to only a few wealthy people, as if to peddle this gospel for personal gain. ix. Instead, he shared all this publicly, teaching in the hall of Tyrannus. And when those discussions continued, he went to houses and taught too. x. There was no membership fee, no subscription model, no downloadable content. xi. He passionately pursued any who desired to be taught the ways of the Lord. f. [Slide 11] 21 - solemnly testifying to both Jews and Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. i. Finally, we see Paul say that they observed the undeniable fact that he, with great seriousness and sincerity, bore witness to both Jews and Greeks about repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus. ii. Paul shared the gospel, even after the church was founded there in Ephesus. iii. And he shared the gospel to every person he came in contact with regardless of their heritage or lineage. iv. We know that the Jews were despised and mocked in Ephesus. We know from the letter to the Ephesians Paul emphasizes the church being one made of both Jews and Gentiles. v. Paul passionately and sincerely bore witnesses to all men about the command of God for all men to repent toward God and receive faith in Jesus. g. [Slide 12] Summary of the Point: Luke dutifully records Paul's exhortation to the Elders of Ephesus as he commends them to continuing the work there in their city. Paul's opening point is the track record that he exemplified while he was among them. He was a man who selflessly served the Lord by serving them, through tears and trails. He taught them in season and out of season. He reproved, rebuked, corrected and instructed them in all that was helpful to them, and he did the work of an evangelist calling all kinds of men to repentance toward God and faith in Christ. But they knew all this. They observed him for three years being this kind of man. So, what is Paul's message? What is Luke telling us? Quite simply – the church needs this caliber of man to be Elders. In fact, for every Elder or would be Elder, it is safe for us to conclude that this should be our character profile. Transition: [Slide 13 (blank)] Paul leaves the past and now looks to the uncertainty of the future. Will he be the same man? Will he make changes? If the pressure increases, will he break? II.) Paul will continue to demonstrate these qualities despite the cost, so all Elders and would be Elders must endure in these same qualities. (22-27) a. [Slide 14] 22 - And now, behold, bound by the Spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, 23 - except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that chains and afflictions await me. i. Paul leaves the past and now looks to the future. ii. He knows that he must go to Jerusalem. We saw before how he resolved to go to Jerusalem and now, we see that this was by direct leading of the Holy Spirit. iii. Paul has no idea what to expect when he arrives. It has been about 5 years since he last went to Jerusalem. He went there after his second missionary journey and before heading to Ephesus. iv. In fact, the only thing he does know is what the Holy Spirit continues to remind him of in every city he visits. v. Really it is the prediction that Christ gave to Ananias at Paul's conversion. Jesus said, “I will show him how much he must suffer for My name.” vi. The Holy Spirit has revealed that many afflictions and imprisonments await Paul in the near future. vii. So, he doesn't know what will happen in Jerusalem, but he does know that he is going to suffer imprisonments and afflictions for the name of Christ. viii. What is the moral fiber of Paul? What is his outlook here? b. [Slide 15] 24 - But I do not make my life of any account nor dear to myself, i. Paul is holding his life loosely. ii. He is not fighting to stay alive at all costs. He is not striving to avoid all pain and anguish. iii. If the Holy Spirit has revealed that this is God's will for him – it would be foolish to resist and to fight against it. iv. Paul will not flee like Jonah. v. Why? c. [Slide 16] so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God. i. Jesus gave Paul a job to do. ii. He is to go and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to Jews, to Gentiles, and to Kings. iii. Well, so far, he has not proclaimed the gospel to kings. iv. He has certainly had audiences with many powerful and wealthy people. Some of them have even come to Christ. v. But, to date, Paul has never stood before any rulers to preach the gospel. vi. So, his mission is not complete. vii. Here we see again his desire to sincerely or solemnly testify to the gospel of the grace of God. viii. There are many perspectives on soteriology. For the last four hundred years the church has been enamored with the discussion of Arminianism vs. Calvinism. ix. I'm not going to talk about either right now. x. But one thing is for sure. If the gospel you believe is not a gospel of God's grace, then it is not the gospel at all. xi. So, what is grace? 1. We have all memorized the quick definition – unmerited favor. 2. And that is a fine definition of the word grace. 3. But if we are talking about God's grace and specifically God's grace in salvation, which is what Paul is talking about here, I do not believe the definition “unmerited favor” is sufficient. 4. So, how would I define God's grace in salvation? 5. It is simply this. God accomplishes 100% of our salvation. 6. There is no step that God has left to us in order to be saved. 7. According to Romans 3:24, we are justified as a gift by His grace through Christ's redemption. 8. [Slide 17] Another way to remember what grace is, is by the acronym for GRACE 9. God's 10. Riches 11. At 12. Christ's 13. Expense 14. God delivers the gift of all his riches, indeed sonship and becoming heirs to His throne, at the expense of Christ. 15. Notice that this still has nothing to do with us. Our response isn't factored in yet, for God has given His riches because of the redemption of His Son. 16. Now this isn't denying that there are necessary responses flowing out of that gift of justification by grace through Christ's work. 17. In fact, in the other instance in this text in which Paul talks about sincerely testifying about the gospel he explains the command and the responsibility of Jews and Greeks to respond in repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ. 18. But God uses our repentance and faith, both of which the scriptures teach us are ALSO gifts He gives to us, God by grace uses this gifted repentance and faith as means to unite us to our gifted justification. 19. [Slide 18] To suggest that God has accomplished even 99.9% of our salvation and waits on us to do the other .1% - is to make another gospel… one that is not GRACE - God's Riches At Christ's Expense, but is in fact, God's Riches Awaiting Mankind's Submission. I know that spells GRAMS which isn't great… 20. [Slide 19] but My point is not for you to remember GRAMS but GRACE! 21. Call yourself an Arminian. Call yourself a Calvinist. Refuse to take a title. It matters very little. 22. But if your gospel is not ALL of God – then it isn't the gospel of the Grace of God that Paul preached. And that means… it isn't the gospel at all. d. [Slide 20] 25 - And now, behold, I know that all of you, among whom I went about preaching the kingdom, will no longer see my face. i. Now Paul laments the fact that most likely, he will never see any of the Ephesian Elders again. ii. Is Paul being overly dramatic here? iii. No. Paul knows that his future will be full of all kinds of difficulties. iv. And as far as we know, Paul never did return to Ephesus. Paul will go to Rome as a prisoner. He will be release and then spend time in and around the Adriatic Sea between Italy and Greece, and potentially even going as far as Spain. But eventually he will be imprisoned for the last time and beheaded by Emperor Nero. v. So no, Paul isn't being dramatic. vi. He went among them and preached the Kingdom of Christ- of which they were now a part and working to do the same. vii. But never again will he see them. viii. In light of this, Paul wants to say one more thing about the future… and specifically their future. Then he will move to exhorting them. ix. We won't get to the exhortation this week, but let's look at what Paul says about their future… e. [Slide 21] 26 - Therefore, I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all. 27 - For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God. i. Much like God commanded Ezekiel in Ezekiel 3:17 and 18 warning him to be a watchmen for the people and warn them when God tells him to warn them, Paul recuses himself from any guilt that might be placed on him for the spiritual futures of any of these Elders present with him, and for any of the church in Ephesus. ii. Why? iii. Because he did not hesitate to tell them all that God had revealed. iv. If any of these Elders bring a different teaching or slip away from the teaching Paul gave either by adding to it or taking from it – it is not a charge that can be laid on Paul. v. And if they lead any of the Ephesian church members into apostasy or heresy – it cannot be blamed on Paul. vi. Why? vii. Paul did not hesitate to tell them everything God had given him. The whole purpose or counsel of God was available to them through him. viii. Again, this goes back to his statement that he didn't withdraw from telling them everything that was profitable or expedient to them. f. [Slide 22] Summary of the Point: As Paul looks to the future and understands that there is no hope for things to improve. In fact, things will most certainly get worse, for the Holy Spirit has revealed as much to him. But Paul's intention is to continue to exemplify these qualities and these passions. He desires to continue to be used up, to be emptied out, all for the sake of the gospel of God's grace. His desire is to leave no one's blood on his hands, but like a good watchman, he has told everyone all that they must hear to participate in the kingdom of Christ. Despite a bleak future – Paul intends to continue to exemplify these qualities, until he is extinguished. My friends… Elders and those who would be Elders someday… Is this us? It must be. Conclusion: So CBC, what have we learned today and how then shall we live? Doctrinal Takeaway: [Slide 23] All of our truth points come from Paul's example. This may be challenging for us to receive because Paul is merely a man, but when we understand that these qualities in this text are merely a reflection of who Jesus is and what He demonstrated, we then understand that the qualities Paul has demonstrated are simply those he has received from Christ. But if we were to look at the two letters Paul wrote to Timothy and Titus concerning the qualifications for Elders, we would see a remarkable but unsurprisingly similar 1 to 1 connection between those qualifications and the qualities Paul demonstrated to the Ephesians. Paul is blameless, temperate, sensible, respectful, apt to teach, not a brawler but considerate, peaceable, free from the love of money, he had a good reputation with those outside the church, he was not selfish, nor a liar to cheat people of money, he loved what was good, he was righteous, holy, self-controlled, and he held fast the faithful teaching of the gospel, proving to be able to exhort others in sound doctrine, doing the work of an evangelist, and was able to reprove those who contradicted the gospel. In that sense, Paul's life becomes an illustration of what qualities we must look for in men who are or desire to be Elders. And if we are Elders or desire to be Elders, Paul's example becomes a good template to compare ourselves to. But let me seek to apply this text today, primarily to Elders and would be Elders, but also to the congregation as a whole. 1.) [Slide 24] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that blamelessness is the chief qualification of an Elder. a. All the qualities Paul puts forward in this text are summarized in the basic qualification of blamelessness. b. Blamelessness is the quality one possesses in which it is impossible to find fault with someone. c. This does not, of course, speak to perfection. All men continue to battle and kill off their sin in this life. If the standard were perfection and true sinlessness, then only Christ could be given the title of Elder. d. Instead, blamelessness takes on a legal quality. In the law of moses it took two or three witnesses to bring someone to trial and find them guilty. e. Similarly, we see in I Timothy 5, Paul outlines the process for the discipline of an Elder. If two or three witnesses are not available to substantiate an accusation of sin against an Elder, then the accusation is not even to be heard. But if two or three witnesses confirm that an Elder is in sin, the Elder must be rebuked. f. This again instructs us as to the exact nature of the qualification of blamelessness. g. In order for a man, who desires the office, to be qualified for it, it must be impossible to achieve the necessary quorum among the body to accuse the man of living in sin. In fact, being blameless would imply that any such accusation would be hard to fathom considering the character of the man in question. h. Blamelessness does not mean sinlessness, but it does mean that there is no sin that is cherished, nurtured, encouraged, or befriended by this Elder. They desire the death of sin in their hearts and keep their accounts short. i. Looking at the rest of the qualifications we can see how all of them flow out of or into this one quality of blamelessness. j. Why must the man be blameless? k. Think about an Elder's responsibility. He is to guard the souls of the little lambs of God, serving as an undershepherd below the Great Shepherd. l. Such a place, such a responsibility, such a position given to a man who no one really trusts, or who when a rumor floats around people say, “well that does sound like a sin he would be doing.” Such a man cannot possibly watch for the souls of others… for others much watch out for his soul instead. He would be a liability to the children of God and the rest of the leadership. m. How can an Elder teach or lead someone in holy and Christlike lifestyles when he himself is ensnared and overcome by sin? n. So, by way of application for us this morning, we diverge into a few groups of people. i. First, if you are a man in this congregation, you need to consider blamelessness to be your command. 1. Whether you are an Elder or not, as a man in our congregation we still possess the innate headship of our home meaning that we are in essence an Elder of our family. 2. We have the responsibility of watching out for the souls of our wife and children or future wife and/or future children. 3. Such a role requires us to be the spiritual leader of our family. Setting the example in thought, word, and deed. Exemplifying Christlikeness. And pursuing Christ before our family and leading them to Him. ii. Second, if you are a man in this congregation who desires the office of an Elder, you must first be blameless. 1. No amount of biblical knowledge can make up for lacking blamelessness in your character. 2. No amount of teaching prowess can make up for lacking blamelessness. 3. No amount of kindness, gentleness, rule following, leadership, or charisma can make up for lacking blamelessness. 4. If a man is perfect in every way, and gifted as Paul was for ministry but was known for indulging in a specific sin… such a man is still unqualified to be an Elder. 5. And it is not enough to be blameless until you become an Elder… now you must live blamelessly not only before your family and the church, but before the other Elders as well. iii. Third, if you are an Elder in this church, let this be a healthy reminder to us that we must continue to be blameless. 1. We must continue to serve the Lord in humility. We must continue to serve Him and His church with tears and with endurance through persecution. 2. We must continue to declare the whole counsel of God to His people, sparing no teaching that is profitable and expedient to them. 3. We must continue to solemnly testify to all men the gospel of God's grace and implore them to turn from their sin and to God through faith in Jesus as Savior and Lord. 4. My friends, we must be blameless. And we must make sure we hold each other to that standard. iv. Finally, if you are none of the above, you must pray for and seek out leaders who are blameless. 1. It is the congregation's responsibility to only seek out and receive Elders who are blameless. 2. And if a Prospective Elder is put forward for consideration, who you do not consider to be blameless, you must make your concerns known to the Elder Board. 3. Although we have only been Elder led for a few years now, there may come a time in the future where the Elders put forward another man we have considered to be qualified to be an Elder in our church. 4. You have a solemn responsibility to make your concerns known to us. Perhaps you know the man in a way we do not. o. For the sake of the church and the purity of the gospel message, Elders must be blameless. 2.) [Slide 25] Refutation: “What lies must we cast down” or “What do we naturally believe, or have been taught to believe, that this passage shows is false?” We must deny that Elders can hold others to a standard they do not meet. a. Nothing Paul will charge these men to do next week are things that Paul has not already demonstrated and done himself. b. Paul is not instructing the Elders in Ephesus to do something he would not or could not do. Instead, he is instructing them to be like him and continue doing what he was doing. c. There is a common saying in ministry and it is something like, “the spiritual maturity of the body can never exceed the average spiritual maturity of its leaders.” d. If such a thing could be measured mathematically, we could conclude that if the spiritual maturity of the Elder board was averaged to be 50% conformity to Christ (again, these are very crude numbers – just follow me for the sake of the illustration) – If this were so, then the church body cannot possibly be expected to exceed that maturity. e. Thus, if the Elders are a group of power-hungry little kings vying for their own slice of the church pie – imagine what such a church would be? f. Regardless of whether you are an Elder, a would be Elder, or a member of this body – this is still further incentive to find men who are blameless to lead. g. Because if they are not blameless, the church won't be anywhere close to blameless. h. An Elder can only preach and teach that which he has repented of and submitted to in His own life. i. Elders must practice in example what they intend to preach from the scriptures. 3.) [Slide 26] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must pray for godly leaders. a. This works out in two specific ways. b. First, we must pray for God to give more godly leaders to us. i. Unfortunately, Jerry Gunst isn't going to live forever. Neither is Nick, or CJ, or Justin - and even though I am not even 40 yet, I have already begun praying for and looking for a young man who could potentially replace me as the Primary teaching Elder of the church. ii. Our lives seem so long in some ways – so long that we procrastinate on things that go beyond our lifetime. iii. And yet life is so short in other ways. So short that by the time we do realize we need to plan for the future beyond our lives, it is too late. iv. Even now, we can be in prayer for the future Elders of Columbus Baptist Church. v. We can pray that God would give grace to save and shape and mold young men to rise up to the challenge of blamelessly shepherding God's people. vi. You can start that today. Every week I pray through our membership directory. And when I come to a name of a boy – I pray that God would raise him up to be godly and that he might become a future Elder or Deacon of this church. vii. Be in prayer for the future leaders of our church. Even if you will be long gone before they take office… be in prayer. c. Second, we must pray for the leaders we currently have to be godly. i. Occasionally some of you get a sneak peek into the lives of we Elders. ii. Occasionally you are exposed to the trials, the tears, the pains, the hardship, the difficulties we face in leading this church. And that is all in addition to the normal trials and troubles we face in our families and in our personal lives… And most of your Elders actually have ANOTHER job that they do that has its own set of difficulties. iii. My point is, that we… NEED.. your prayers. iv. I would even say that we are desperate for them. v. And don't just pray that we be healthy, that our kids are healthy, that our bodies are healthy… no… please… pray especially that God would protect us from the schemes of the devil and the principalities and powers that seek to destroy us to get to you all. Pray for that first. vi. I'd rather die of cancer having lived a godly life, than live forever having rejected my Lord's commands. And I can confidently say that that is true for all the Elders. vii. Pray for our physical needs – but not at the expense of praying for our spiritual protection and godly wisdom. 4.) [Slide 27] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” Elders, we must be Watchmen for these people. a. Notice how Paul twice emphasized that he declared the whole plan of God and all that was profitable to the Ephesian Elders when he was with them. He did this to the extent that if any of them walked away from this truth and their faith failed and they were cast into the lake of fire… then he would not be to blame for it. b. We too are watchmen of these people. c. May none here have the luxury of saying in that final day, “But that Elder didn't tell me everything. He never told me the fullness of your plan or the teachings that were of great expediency to me.” d. May we teach with our words and our lives all that is necessary to be known so that in the final day we are innocent of all blood, having watched out for all the souls in our charge. e. Let us not grow weary in our labor. But let us press on brothers. 5.) [Slide 28] Comfort: “What comfort can we find here?” or “What peace does the Lord promise us in light of this passage of scripture?” A plurality of biblically qualified Elders is one of the greatest gifts Christ has given His church. a. Who wouldn't want a bunch of little Paul's looking out for them? b. Who wouldn't want a bunch of little Christ's guarding them? c. God has called and equipped men to lead His church. They are mere men, which means they are not perfect. But they are equipped by God, blameless, so that even when they fail, they humbly seek forgiveness and make appropriate changes. d. Who else would we want leading our church? e. What a great comfort it is to have godly men leading. f. May they remain godly so that we may thrive as the church of Christ. [Slide 29 (end)] Let me close with a prayer by the Reformer Thomas Becon Lord Jesus Christ, you are the true and everlasting Bishop, the mirror and pattern for all faithful pastors both in life and doctrine. You came down from God your Father not only to be our Redeemer, but also our teacher, to open and declare to us the mysteries of the holy Scriptures. We humbly pray now that in your mercy you would look upon your poor and scattered flock, whom you have purchased with your most precious blood. Send us shepherds who will diligently seek the lost sheep, lovingly carry them on their shoulders, and faithfully bring them home again. Lord, you see how great the harvest is, and how few the workers. You are Lord of the harvest. Send us into the harvest! And take away from us those false prophets who come to us in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves. Take away those false anointed and false preachers, who by their subtle doctrine would bring us into error. Grant also, O Lord, that these true shepherds may accurately and reverently minister your holy mysteries to us… [that we may have] our faith … established, confirmed, and strengthened. And may we be comforted and made strong against the gates of hell, the devil, the world, the flesh, the curse of the law, sin, death, desperation, and all that is hostile to us. May their shepherds hands not be stretched out to receive, and slow to give. But establish in them a mind that is content, and willing to spend for the relief of the poor, that they may feed the flock both in word and deed. You commanded your apostle Peter three times to feed your flock. And you gave this command not only to Peter, but to all your apostles-even to all pastors who follow. Deal with your flock, most faithful Shepherd, according to your promise. Raise up faithful and diligent shepherds who may feed their flocks with your life-filled word, lead a good life, and maintain hospitality for the comfort of the poor. And in all things may they behave according to your will and commandments. So when you, the most high Bishop and chief Shepherd, appear, may they receive the pure and spotless crown of glory. In Jesus' name we pray this. Amen. Benediction: May the Lord grant you The love that leads the way, The faith that nothing can sway, The hope no disappointments can dismay, And the passion that burns like fire. Until we meet again, go in peace.

SUBSCRIBE and get the latest messages: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVIzzCy3Z9Zsk0GwAH-yJ7g?sub_confirmation=1Watch this:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5De6-FwIKq4&t=1sTo support this ministry and help us continue to reach people click here: http://kingschurchkc.com/giveWe exist to help ALL people know God, find family, discover purpose, and make a difference.——Stay ConnectedWebsite: www.kingschurchkc.comKings Church Facebook: Facebook.com/kingschurchkcKings Church Instagram: Instagram.com/kingschurchkc#kingschurch #faith #Christianity #kansascity #onlinechurch #churchonline #hope #churchesinkansascity

In this powerful message, Pastor Karl dives into Romans chapter 11, exploring God's cosmic plan to save anyone who desires salvation. He unpacks the heartbeat of Romans: God's unstoppable mission to redeem sinners by grace through faith and our response of worship and service. Focusing on the Greek word "sozo" (salvation), Pastor Karl traces God's saving work through Israel's past, present, and future, showing how His promises to Israel shape His promises to us as Gentiles. He emphasizes that God uses us to make His chosen people jealous, drawing them back to Him, while warning against pride and anti-Semitism in today's world. With passion and clarity, Pastor Karl calls us to humility, readiness to share our hope, and active participation in God's global plan through church planting and proclaiming the Word. Discover how you're part of this divine story—and why grace is greater than disobedience.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

Numbers 15: Historical Facts and Keywords Historical Context & Summary Numbers 15 takes place after the Israelites' rebellion in Numbers 14, where they refused to enter the Promised Land and were sentenced to wander in the wilderness for 40 years. Despite their punishment, God still provided laws and instructions, showing His ongoing relationship with them. 1.Laws on Offerings (Verses 1–21): •God commanded the Israelites to present grain, drink, and burnt offerings alongside their animal sacrifices when they entered the Promised Land. •This law applied to both Israelites and foreigners living among them, emphasizing that all people under God's covenant should follow the same worship practices. 2.Sin Offerings (Verses 22–31): •Distinction was made between unintentional and intentional sins. •Atonement could be made for unintentional sins through sacrifices, but high-handed (defiant) sins were punishable by being cut off from the community. 3.The Sabbath-Breaker (Verses 32–36): •A man was found gathering wood on the Sabbath, violating God's command. •God instructed Moses to have the man stoned by the community, reinforcing the seriousness of obeying divine laws. 4.Tassels on Garments (Verses 37–41): •God commanded the Israelites to wear tzitzit (tassels) with a blue cord on their garments as a visual reminder to obey His commandments. •The tassels symbolized holiness and devotion to God, preventing the people from straying after their own desires. Key Themes & Keywords •Obedience – Following God's laws was essential for both individuals and the community. •Holiness – The tassels served as a physical reminder of Israel's calling to be holy. •Judgment – The Sabbath-breaker's punishment showed that willful defiance had consequences. •Grace – God still provided ways for forgiveness through sacrifices for unintentional sins. •Covenant – The laws reaffirmed the Israelites' unique relationship with God. Numbers 15 highlights God's expectations for His people and the importance of living in obedience, even in the wilderness.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.

Nina and Michelle teach on what it means to be in God's favor.

To get a clearer picture of God, we need to understand His unearned, undeserved favor toward us. His grace goes far beyond simply forgiving our sins; it is His way of dealing with those who receive Christ. Grace provides assurance, stability, and direction in the lives of believers. It is not something reserved for when we eventually get to heaven; it immediately begins working in our daily lives the instant we believe and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. The beauty of grace is that it is based not on what we do, but on what Jesus already did and our faith in that. We are forgiven, holy, and righteous not because of our efforts, but because God said so. Knowing and accepting our right-standing with God changes our entire lives. To support the ministry financially, text "CDMPodcast" to 74483 or visit www.worldchangers.org.

Nina and Michelle teach on how God meets us wherever we are in life.

In this episode, J. Ryan Davidson gives a short overview of the confessional and reformed doctrine of the means of grace. Scripture texts such as Acts 20:32 are considered, alongside historic formulations of the doctrine from the Second London Confession of Faith and the 19th Century Dutch Theologian, Herman Bavinck. This series on the means of grace provides an overview of the material in "Green Pastures: Ordinary Means of Grace for Ordinary Believers", published by Broken Wharfe. More information can be found at brokenwharfe.com/bookshop/Send us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!

God Is Passionate and Compassionate — Review of Lesson #4 of the 1st Quarter of 2025 -The Sabbath School Lesson study guide can be found here:— https://ssnet.org/lessons/25a/less04.html— https://www.adultbiblestudyguide.org/archives— https://sabbath-school.adventech.io/enThe title of this quarter's theme is: The God of Love and JusticeFor the next 13 weeks (January to March 2025), we will study the tension between two of God's attributes that most people have a hard time reconciling: God's Justice and God's Love.  This is key for us to understand, especially in a world of sin and misery, where we need to be able to preach the gospel with urgency.Related Podcasts:— The Law and Grace— Law and Grace— God's Promises to me are sure— Having the Right Perspective— Everlasting Covenant— The Divinity of Jesus Christ— Christ, Humanity and Salvation— Why Did Jesus Come to Earth?— O Live That Wilt Not Let Me Go -- An Everlasting LoveRelated Podcasts at TrueWisdom:— Love or Like?— Grace, Grace, and More GraceSupport the showIf you have any questions or comments, please send them to: BibleQuestions@ASBzone.comDuring many of our podcasts, you will hear us make reference to “The Key Principles of Effective Bible Study,” a document which outlines core concepts shown in the scriptures that will help you better understand many Biblical themes and doctrines. We have done a whole podcast series on these principles which can be found here (https://BibleStudy.ASBzone.com/357512/8572886).God's Precious Word is a condensed, 9-part series, based on the same document. Lastly, we recommend that you check out https://TrueWisdom.buzzsprout.com for a related Bible Study podcast, in a different format, co-hosted with Robert Baker.We pray that all of these resources will be very helpful to you in your Bible Studies.

Both CS Lewis and RC Sproul asked, "If you could boil down take Christian theology and boil it into one word, what would it be?" Love? Faith? They answered that the one word would be Grace. Grace is like a huge bank account and faith is the account number to get access to it. God provides the grace, and we respond to it with faith. Another way to look at it is to contrast 3 words and what they mean: Judgement - getting what you deserve Mercy - not getting what you deserve Grace - getting something that you don't deserve Grace is something that costs everything for the Giver (Jesus) and nothing for the recipient (you and I). John 1:14 tells us that, "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, ...full of grace and truth." Today we're studying Matthew 20:1-16.

A new MP3 sermon from The Superior Word is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: CG Report 01/05/25 (Grace, Grace! God's Problematic Grace) Subtitle: CG Report (Prophecy Update) Speaker: Charlie Garrett Broadcaster: The Superior Word Event: Current Events Date: 1/5/2025 Length: 48 min.

God's grace is not just a concept to understand but an experience to live. Drawing on biblical accounts, it highlights how God's grace is active, personal, and transformative, offering forgiveness, love, and adoption into His family despite our shortcomings. The call to actions is to seek a deeper, experiential relationship with God, anchored in His unchanging grace and truth. 

Today we delve into the Christmas story from Luke 2, uncovering the authentic love displayed by both God and His people. We see examples of man's love for God through Mary, Joseph, Simeon, and Anna - each demonstrating devotion despite challenging circumstances. However, the heart of the message reminds us that Scripture ultimately reveals God's love for man. His pursuit of humanity, from Abraham to Jesus, shows that our love is merely a response to His initiating love. This realization challenges us to move beyond simply returning God's love to loving Him for who He is. As we grow in our faith, our goal shifts from seeking blessings to becoming more Christ-like, even when it's uncomfortable. This Christmas, let's reflect on how we can let our good deeds shine not for our glory, but so others may praise our heavenly Father.If you want help in starting this journey, please don't hesitate to reach out!If you want to talk to someone about going deeper in your faith or starting to walk with Jesus on a daily basis, please reach out to us at office@graceva.com

Pastor Bill explores the true essence of Christmas through the lens of Matthew's Gospel, emphasizing the humble and scandalous nature of Jesus' birth. By drawing parallels with historical and fictional figures like Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Pastor Bill challenges us to embrace Jesus, amidst worldly criticism.

In this message, we explore how God's grace is displayed through the imperfect people in Jesus' family tree. Despite their flaws, God used them to bring His plan of salvation to fruition, showing that no one is beyond His redemption. God's grace isn't about earning, it's about receiving—and no one is too far gone to be part of His plan.

In this message, we explore how God's grace is displayed through the imperfect people in Jesus' family tree. Despite their flaws, God used them to bring His plan of salvation to fruition, showing that no one is beyond His redemption. God's grace isn't about earning, it's about receiving—and no one is too far gone to be part of His plan.

Kingdom inside of you becomes the prayers that come out of you to heal the sick. Grace: God is always leaning into you to share His benefits Acts 1:1-3 / 2Tim 3:16-17 / 2Pet 3:14-18 / Deut 28:1-2 / 2Pet 1:2-11 / Col 1:9-14 / Jer 15:16 / 1John

In this episode, Brooke Thomas dives into the transformative power of the book of Philippians and its message of joy. She shares how the Apostle Paul found joy even in a jail cell and encourages listeners to seek joy amid their circumstances. Brooke reads and explains key scriptures from Philippians, emphasizing the importance of relinquishing the pressure of perfection and performance. She highlights God's desire for us to trust, relax, and enjoy life, and provides practical steps for surrendering our struggles to His guidance. With heartfelt prayer and actionable encouragement, this episode aims to inspire listeners to focus on their strengths, victories, and the voice of God over the lies of the enemy. Important Timestamps: 00:46 – Power of Joy: Finding joy in challenging circumstances inspired by Philippians.  02:00 – Everyday Life Bible: Introducing Joyce Meyer's commentary and how it impacts reading the Word 04:09 – Perfection vs. Grace: God's preference for love and grace over perfection.  08:42 – Spiritual vs. Natural: Letting God handle battles beyond our control.  11:37 – Focus on the Future: Celebrating progress and looking forward rather than dwelling on the past.  12:49 – Voice of Truth: Choosing to listen to God's truth over the enemy's lies.   Resources: Enrollment is OPEN!  Enrollment for The Elite Mastermind 2025 is now open! Imagine the breakthroughs you can achieve in just one year when you're surrounded by faith-driven, high-achieving women who are committed to elevating their business, life, and faith. If you're ready to step into your full potential, activate your skills, and build a legacy of freedom, joy, and divine impact, this is the place for you. Apply now to join a community that will support, challenge, and inspire you as you scale your business to new heights while staying aligned with God's calling. Let's transform together! Apply Here!   Join the Live Out Loud Tour! Feeling called to something bigger? The Live Out Loud Tour 2025 is your opportunity to Activate Your Vision and transform your business, life, and faith! Want to be the first to know when tickets go live? Join the waitlist now and let us know which city we should visit next!    Transform Your Business in Just 60 Minutes a Day! Unlock the secrets to attracting dream clients and skyrocketing your sales with my proven Activation Hour framework. Download this FREE training session and start filling your pipeline today!   Free 90-Min Masterclass: Multiply Your Business by Expanding Your Capacity in 2024 with My Proven Live Out Loud Activation System! It's time to activate your impact! Receive daily encouragement, biblical business principles, and a monthly group coaching call with Brooke Thomas!   Enroll in The Live Out Loud Ignite Membership Unlock your potential with The LOL Ignite Membership's daily faith activations and exclusive mentorship. Be part of a community that empowers you to achieve your business and personal goals. Discover your true potential with Ignite!   Join Brooke's Mental Wellness Team Discover the keys to mental wellness, including confidence, stress resilience, and overall well-being. Join us and start thriving in every area of your life! Follow Brooke on Social Media www.brookethomas.com Facebook Instagram LinkedIn TikTok  

First Baptist Church Broken Arrow is located at 100 W. Albany in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. We would love to connect with you online and in-person! We would love to connect with you on Facebook: / fbcbrokenarrow​ You can also check out our website: https://www.fbcba.org

Pastor Michael McGowanMatthew 18:1-35

Welcome to the Victory Church Weekly Podcast! Reach out to me with any questions or comments about the show at pastor@victorychurchraleigh.com You can also read my daily blog at mitchhorton.com Get plugged in at Victory Church at victorychurchraleigh.com Check out my latest book An Appointment with God's Power Hit subscribe, and turn on notifications so that you can get the podcast delivered daily on your phone!

Pastor Michael McGowanTitus 2:11-14

Pastor Michael McGowan2 Corinithians 12:1-10

When we trust Jesus, He pours out His unconditional love upon us.

Aaron and Tiff reflect on God's grace as they get older. Listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bND2GwvNm9Y

Like an anchor holds the ship and keeps it from moving, so does guilt hold the person who is attached to it. Guilt is not from God but it is real nonetheless. It is actually a satanic tool of the devil to freeze you in your tracks and keep you from moving forward.Because guilt is real, we need to learn how to deal with it. And once you do, you a re free to move once again.Listen carefully and discover the Grace God has for you, especialaly when guilt tries to move in and take you captive.

How God Used Handwriting, Graphology, to help me see I only knew about God and had not received Him in my heart for salvation! My Books: Amazon.com/Richard-A-Hardin/e/B09J2YHCVB *The Handwriting Analysis (Graphology) helps us separate our individual personal characteristics so we can understand better how or why we respond in certain ways. **Today I will share how God used (Graphology) Handwriting Analysis to help me realize that His Word (Christ) that I had learned through the 20+ years of going to church, and getting baptized at age 9 was not doing me any good and was not alive in my heart. It is hard for a person who thinks they are a Christian to realize that they only have head knowledge. I thank the Lord so much for sparing me in His Mercy so I could come to the truth to receive His Word, Christ, in my heart to perform the work of Grace for my new changed heart to become a child of God! It was totally His mercy because I sure didn't deserve it in any way! Romans 2:4 tells of the blessings of unmerited favor (mercy) that leads us to receive the Grace (God's Spirit) into our hearts for salvation, "Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God(mercy) leadeth thee to repentance?" and to receive Grace, God's Spirit, into our hearts .***It is very difficult to change a belief! Most of us must have something very drastic happen before we will admit we are wrong and accept a new belief. The Apostle Paul is an extreme example of a person who loved God enough that when he found out he was persecuting the people of the real God, Jesus, the first thing he asked Jesus was, "Lord what would you have me do." I hope what happened to me will encourage you to consider your own personal salvation and at least listen to some of my podcasts. It is very difficult to change a belief! Most of us must have something very drastic happen before we will admit we are wrong and accept a new belief. The Apostle Paul is an extreme example of a person who loved God enough that when he found out he was persecuting the people of the real God, Jesus, the first thing he asked Jesus was, "Lord what would you have me do." I hope what happened to me will encourage you to consider your own personal salvation and at least listen to some of my podcasts of the gross errors that are being taught in Christianity which deny Jesus the respect and praise He deserves for all the suffering He went through for us on the cross and in His life!  Being a Christian is so much greater than what most of our preachers are teaching! on @KLRNRadio.com 7AM CST  #GPWF or anytime rahardin.comHow God Used Handwriting, Graphology, to help me see I only knew about God and had not received Him in my heart for salvation! My Books: Amazon.com/Richard-A-Hardin/e/B09J2YHCVB *The Handwriting Analysis (Graphology) helps us separate our individual personal characteristics so we can understand better how or why we respond in certain ways. **Today I will share how God used (Graphology) Handwriting Analysis to help me realize that His Word (Christ) that I had learned through the 20+ years of going to church, and getting baptized at age 9 was not doing me any good and was not alive in my heart. It is hard for a person who thinks they are a Christian to realize that they only have head knowledge. I thank the Lord so much for sparing me in His Mercy so I could come to the truth to receive His Word, Christ, in my heart to perform the work of Grace for my new changed heart to become a child of God! It was totally His mercy because I sure didn't deserve it in any way! Romans 2:4 tells of the blessings of unmerited favor (mercy) that leads us to receive the Grace (God's Spirit) into our hearts for salvation, "Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God(mercy) leadeth thee to repentance?" and to receive Grace, God's Spirit, into our hearts .***It is very difficult to change a belief! Most of us must have something very drastic happen before we will admit we are wrong and accept a new belief. The Apostle Paul is an extreme example of a person who loved God enough that when he found out he was persecuting the people of the real God, Jesus, the first thing he asked Jesus was, "Lord what would you have me do." I hope what happened to me will encourage you to consider your own personal salvation and at least listen to some of my podcasts. It is very difficult to change a belief! Most of us must have something very drastic happen before we will admit we are wrong and accept a new belief. The Apostle Paul is an extreme example of a person who loved God enough that when he found out he was persecuting the people of the real God, Jesus, the first thing he asked Jesus was, "Lord what would you have me do." I hope what happened to me will encourage you to consider your own personal salvation and at least listen to some of my podcasts of the gross errors that are being taught in Christianity which deny Jesus the respect and praise He deserves for all the suffering He went through for us on the cross and in His life!  Being a Christian is so much greater than what most of our preachers are teaching! on @KLRNRadio.com 7AM CST  #GPWF or anytime rahardin.comSPECIAL SUPREME COURT DECISION: CHURCH OF HOLY TRINITY vs UNITED STATES,Feb 29, 1892."These and many other matters which might be noticed, add a volume of unofficial declarations to the mass of organic utterances that this is a Christian Nation" 143 U.S. 457;  12 S.Ct 511;  36 L.Ed 226;  Feb 29, 1892.   PASS IT ON PLEASE!!!

Closer, Pt. 4 | August 25, 2024Pastor Wes Morris John 1:1-14 (NIV) In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God...The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. ✓ Truth: God's standard.John 17:17 (TLB) Make them pure and holy through teaching them your words of truth.✓ Grace: God's favor.✓ Without truth, we become worldly.    Without grace, we become judgmental. ✓ Truth without grace is mean.   Grace without truth is meaningless. ✓ Grace invites us to be free so the truth can set us free. Ephesians 2:8 (NIV) For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God... THE BALANCE OF GRACE AND TRUTH John 8:9-11 (NIV) At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”“No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”I. WALK IN HUMILITY.John 8:6 (TLB) They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger.Philippians 2:3 (ESV) Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.II. SPEAK THE TRUTH IN LOVE.Ephesians 4:15 (TLB) We will lovingly follow the truth at all times—speaking truly, dealing truly, living truly—and so become more and more in every way like Christ who is the Head of his body, the Church.

Unfortunately, we are very politically divided, so this example I'm going to suggest that whoever happens to be the president is a person you voted for and supported. But let's say this person just was inaugurated, and then you get contacted shortly thereafter that they want to meet you, but not only do they want to meet you, they want to meet you in the Oval Office, and they want to discuss with you what your concerns are and what your needs are. I'm pretty certain you would make sure that you are able to go to that White House, go to that Oval Office, and discuss your problems with the president. Someone far greater than the president, with far more power than the president, has sent you a letter with the very same topics. You can see what that greater person is and how he wants to discuss with you your needs. Hebrews 4:14 & 15 Jesus understands what we are going through, yet without sine Hebrews 4:16 Because of that we can go directly to the Throne of Grace (God) with confidence and get help Hebrews 7:25 Jesus save forever to those who draw near to God because He intercedes for us James 4:8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you

While many books can inform us, only God's Book has the power to transform us. Today, Sinclair Ferguson explains how God brings His people to maturity through His written Word. Get 'The Basics of the Christian Life' DVD and Digital Study Guide with Sinclair Ferguson for Your Gift of Any Amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/3490/the-basics-of-the-christian-life Meet Today's Teacher: Sinclair Ferguson is a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow, vice-chairman of Ligonier Ministries, and Chancellor's Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary. He is featured teacher for several Ligonier teaching series, including Union with Christ. He is author of many books, including The Whole Christ, Maturity, and Devoted to God's Church. Dr. Ferguson is also host of the podcast Things Unseen. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, host of the Ask Ligonier podcast, and a graduate of Presbyterian Theological College in Melbourne, Australia. Nathan joined Ligonier in 2012 and lives in Central Florida with his wife and four children. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

In this episode of The Gateway to Joy Podcast, we begin our series on God's Grace and our Response (https://elisabethelliot.org/ggor). We share Gateway to Joy radio programs: - The Definition of Grace- God's Grace & Our Response-1 - He Giveth More Grace- God's Grace & Our Response-2 We also hear from special guests: - Richard Blackaby - Abe Van Der Puy --------- Special thanks to Mike Dize and the Bible Broadcasting Network. Theme music: John Hanson. Visit www.ElisabethElliot.org for more lectures, devotionals, videos, Gateway to Joy programs, and other resources.

How God Used Handwriting, Graphology, to help me see I only knew about God and had not received Him in my heart for salvation! My Books: Amazon.com/Richard-A-Hardin/e/B09J2YHCVB *The Handwriting Analysis (Graphology) helps us separate our individual personal characteristics so we can understand better how or why we respond in certain ways. **Today I will share how God used (Graphology) Handwriting Analysis to help me realize that His Word (Christ) that I had learned through the 20+ years of going to church, and getting baptized at age 9 was not doing me any good and was not alive in my heart. It is hard for a person who thinks they are a Christian to realize that they only have head knowledge. I thank the Lord so much for sparing me in His Mercy so I could come to the truth to receive His Word, Christ, in my heart to perform the work of Grace for my new changed heart to become a child of God! It was totally His mercy because I sure didn't deserve it in any way! Romans 2:4 tells of the blessings of unmerited favor (mercy) that leads us to receive the Grace (God's Spirit) into our hearts for salvation, "Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God(mercy) leadeth thee to repentance?" and to receive Grace, God's Spirit, into our hearts .***It is very difficult to change a belief! Most of us must have something very drastic happen before we will admit we are wrong and accept a new belief. The Apostle Paul is an extreme example of a person who loved God enough that when he found out he was persecuting the people of the real God, Jesus, the first thing he asked Jesus was, "Lord what would you have me do." I hope what happened to me will encourage you to consider your own personal salvation and at least listen to some of my podcasts. It is very difficult to change a belief! Most of us must have something very drastic happen before we will admit we are wrong and accept a new belief. The Apostle Paul is an extreme example of a person who loved God enough that when he found out he was persecuting the people of the real God, Jesus, the first thing he asked Jesus was, "Lord what would you have me do." I hope what happened to me will encourage you to consider your own personal salvation and at least listen to some of my podcasts of the gross errors that are being taught in Christianity which deny Jesus the respect and praise He deserves for all the suffering He went through for us on the cross and in His life!  Being a Christian is so much greater than what most of our preachers are teaching! on @KLRNRadio.com 7AM CST  #GPWF or anytime rahardin.comHow God Used Handwriting, Graphology, to help me see I only knew about God and had not received Him in my heart for salvation! My Books: Amazon.com/Richard-A-Hardin/e/B09J2YHCVB *The Handwriting Analysis (Graphology) helps us separate our individual personal characteristics so we can understand better how or why we respond in certain ways. **Today I will share how God used (Graphology) Handwriting Analysis to help me realize that His Word (Christ) that I had learned through the 20+ years of going to church, and getting baptized at age 9 was not doing me any good and was not alive in my heart. It is hard for a person who thinks they are a Christian to realize that they only have head knowledge. I thank the Lord so much for sparing me in His Mercy so I could come to the truth to receive His Word, Christ, in my heart to perform the work of Grace for my new changed heart to become a child of God! It was totally His mercy because I sure didn't deserve it in any way! Romans 2:4 tells of the blessings of unmerited favor (mercy) that leads us to receive the Grace (God's Spirit) into our hearts for salvation, "Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God(mercy) leadeth thee to repentance?" and to receive Grace, God's Spirit, into our hearts .***It is very difficult to change a belief! Most of us must have something very drastic happen before we will admit we are wrong and accept a new belief. The Apostle Paul is an extreme example of a person who loved God enough that when he found out he was persecuting the people of the real God, Jesus, the first thing he asked Jesus was, "Lord what would you have me do." I hope what happened to me will encourage you to consider your own personal salvation and at least listen to some of my podcasts. It is very difficult to change a belief! Most of us must have something very drastic happen before we will admit we are wrong and accept a new belief. The Apostle Paul is an extreme example of a person who loved God enough that when he found out he was persecuting the people of the real God, Jesus, the first thing he asked Jesus was, "Lord what would you have me do." I hope what happened to me will encourage you to consider your own personal salvation and at least listen to some of my podcasts of the gross errors that are being taught in Christianity which deny Jesus the respect and praise He deserves for all the suffering He went through for us on the cross and in His life!  Being a Christian is so much greater than what most of our preachers are teaching! on @KLRNRadio.com 7AM CST  #GPWF or anytime rahardin.comSPECIAL SUPREME COURT DECISION: CHURCH OF HOLY TRINITY vs UNITED STATES,Feb 29, 1892."These and many other matters which might be noticed, add a volume of unofficial declarations to the mass of organic utterances that this is a Christian Nation" 143 U.S. 457;  12 S.Ct 511;  36 L.Ed 226;  Feb 29, 1892.   PASS IT ON PLEASE!!!

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How we respond to God's grace reveals whether or not we have genuinely received it and can, thus, rightfully claim to be His people.

2 Samuel 7:1-16

Sheryl McCollum shares some uplifting news about her sister Sheila's remission, highlighting the importance of prayer and humor in tough situations. Sheryl and Nancy turn their attention to the tragic case of Mica Miller, expressing skepticism over the official ruling of suicide. They touch base on the disappearance of Sebastian Rogers, analyzing the polygraph results of his father, Seth Rogers. Additionally, Nancy updates listeners on Suzanne Morphew's case and the suspicious behaviors exhibited by her husband Barry Morphew. Today Nancy and Sheryl discuss these topics in today's crime round-up: The Sebastian Rogers Disappearance: Polygraph test latest updates  Mica Miller, South Carolina: Death ruled a suicide Suzanne Morphew Investigation: Barry Morphew is ‘not named a suspect, and not named a person of interest' Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome! Sheryl introduces this week's crime roundup with news of her sister Sheila's remission    (6:00) Seth Rogers' polygraph results are shared  (16:30) Mica Miller's death ruled a suicide    (17:00) Skepticism around Mica Miller's suicide  (17:30) Troubling statements made by Mica Miller's husband (24:00) Barry Morphew update  --- Nancy Grace is an outspoken, tireless advocate for victims' rights and one of television's most respected legal analysts. Nancy Grace had a perfect conviction record during her decade as a prosecutor. She is the founder and publisher of CrimeOnline.com, a crime- fighting digital platform that investigates breaking crime news, spreads awareness of missing people and shines a light on cold cases.  In addition, Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, a daily show hosted by Grace, airs on SIRIUS XM's Triumph Channel 111 and is downloadable as a podcast on all audio platforms - https://www.crimeonline.com/ Connect with Nancy:  X: @nancygrace Instagram: @thenancygrace Facebook: @nancygrace Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice.  Connect with Sheryl: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com X: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollumSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sheryl McCollum shares some uplifting news about her sister Sheila's remission, highlighting the importance of prayer and humor in tough situations. Sheryl and Nancy turn their attention to the tragic case of Mica Miller, expressing skepticism over the official ruling of suicide. They touch base on the disappearance of Sebastian Rogers, analyzing the polygraph results of his father, Seth Rogers. Additionally, Nancy updates listeners on Suzanne Morphew's case and the suspicious behaviors exhibited by her husband Barry Morphew.Also, check out new Zone 7 Merchandise at https://www.jusaskjan.com/sheryl-mac-mccollum-shop Today Nancy and Sheryl discuss these topics in today's crime round-up: The Sebastian Rogers Disappearance: Polygraph test latest updates  Mica Miller, South Carolina: Death ruled a suicide Suzanne Morphew Investigation: Barry Morphew is ‘not named a suspect, and not named a person of interest' Show Notes: (0:00) Welcome! Sheryl introduces this week's crime roundup with news of her sister Sheila's remission    (6:00) Seth Rogers' polygraph results are shared  (16:30) Mica Miller's death ruled a suicide    (17:00) Skepticism around Mica Miller's suicide  (17:30) Troubling statements made by Mica Miller's husband (24:00) Barry Morphew update  --- Nancy Grace is an outspoken, tireless advocate for victims' rights and one of television's most respected legal analysts. Nancy Grace had a perfect conviction record during her decade as a prosecutor. She is the founder and publisher of CrimeOnline.com, a crime- fighting digital platform that investigates breaking crime news, spreads awareness of missing people and shines a light on cold cases.  In addition, Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, a daily show hosted by Grace, airs on SIRIUS XM's Triumph Channel 111 and is downloadable as a podcast on all audio platforms - https://www.crimeonline.com/ Connect with Nancy:  X: @nancygrace Instagram: @thenancygrace Facebook: @nancygrace Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice.  Connect with Sheryl: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com X: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollumSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To get a clearer picture of God, we need to understand His unearned, undeserved favor toward us. His grace goes far beyond simply forgiving our sins; it is His way of dealing with those who receive Christ. Grace provides assurance, stability, and direction in the lives of believers. It is not something reserved for when we eventually get to heaven; it immediately begins working in our daily lives the instant we believe and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. The beauty of grace is that it is based not on what we do, but on what Jesus already did and our faith in that. We are forgiven, holy, and righteous not because of our efforts, but because God said so. Knowing and accepting our right-standing with God changes our entire lives.