Podcasts about Herod

Isaiah prophesied the blind would see and lame would walk. John the Baptist asks from prison: Are you the one? Fr. Hezekias and Annie unpack Jesus' answer, navigate the Herod family, and explain why Advent calls us to patience, fasting, not feasting.

“Is there such a thing as a just war?” This question opens a discussion on the moral implications of warfare, including whether actions taken during war can be justified. Other topics addressed include the interpretation of Genesis 49:10 prophecy and the validity of baptism for those from different Christian backgrounds. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:30 – Is there such a thing as a just war? If there is, does that mean once you're in a war you can do whatever? Why do popes no longer tell us when wars are just? 17:43 – How do we interpret Gen 49:10 prophecy? 24:43 – I come from a Baptist background. Why is my baptism valid? 35:41 – Since the Roman Empire didn’t have a king when they gave Herod the title of King of the Jews did, they allow him to rule as absolute monarch? 45:30 – Why do some bible translations leave the word fasting out of Mt. 17:21? 50:14 – Is there a second soul in a person who has the chimera genetic disorder?

Peter escapes to the house of Mary. Herod is struck down by God and eaten by worms. And a son of the Devil is trying to make the straight path crooked. Have a listen.  Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education  What's New from 1517: Coming Home for Christmas: 1517 Advent Devotional Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug  More from the hosts: Daniel Emery Price Erick Sorenson

“Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!” (2 Corinthians 9:15 NLT) In all your preparations for the holiday season, make sure you don’t miss the point of celebrating Christmas. Missing the profound meaning and implications of Jesus’ coming is surprisingly easy to do. The innkeeper in Bethlehem could have been an eyewitness to God’s arrival on earth. He could have been immortalized in nativity scenes, along with the shepherds and wise men. But Luke 2:7 says, “She [Mary] gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them” (NLT). The innkeeper missed Jesus because he gave priority to others. King Herod could have accompanied the wise men in their search for the One born King of the Jews. He could have offered his own crown as a gift to Jesus, as a sign of humility, obedience, and worship. But Herod missed Jesus because he couldn’t accept the idea of someone supplanting him as ruler. Matthew 2:16 tells us how far he went to keep it from happening: “Herod was furious when he realized that the wise men had outwitted him. He sent soldiers to kill all the boys in and around Bethlehem who were two years old and under, based on the wise men’s report of the star’s first appearance” (NLT). Most of the Jewish people who were alive when the Incarnation occurred missed Jesus because they ignored the truth of God’s Word. They interpreted Old Testament prophecy to fit their own agenda instead of trying to understand God’s agenda. Citizens of the Roman Empire missed Jesus because they were too busy worshipping other gods. They opted for false idols instead of God Himself. Let’s not make the same mistake. Let’s keep our priorities straight. This is the season of busyness. There are a lot of things vying for our attention—many of them important. But none is nearly as important as the gift of God’s only Son. Let’s approach the Lord with a sense of humility and obedience. The genocidal cruelty of Herod sets him apart from most people. But his refusal to hand the reins of power to anyone else is all too familiar. Giving our lives to Christ and submitting to His will can be a challenge. There are times when we want to pursue our own preferences and pleasures. But if we give in to those urges, we miss what the Lord has in store for us. Let’s prioritize God’s Word. In it, we find the secrets of wisdom, trail markers for discovering God’s will, instructions for living in a Christlike way, and glimpses into our future. The Bible is the gift that keeps giving. Let’s remove the false idols—the distractions that keep us from worshipping God wholeheartedly—from our lives. Let’s resolve not to miss Jesus this Christmas. Reflection question: What steps can you take to keep your focus on Jesus this Christmas? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He's the villain of the Nativity. An alleged killer of innocents, remembered as one of history's great monsters. But the truth about Herod the Great is far more dramatic, far more complex, and far more shocking.On today's special episode of The Ancients, Tristan Hughes asks: who was the real Herod behind the legend and the infamy? Joined by Professor Benedict Eckhardt, Dr Kimberly Tchaikovsky and Professor Helen Bond, he charts the gripping rise of one of antiquity's most formidable and misunderstood rulers. From perilous beginnings to becoming Rome's chosen King of Judea, Herod's story blends Greek-style tragedy with ruthless Roman politics and features encounters with towering figures like Julius Caesar, Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Join us to step into the turbulent world of Roman Judea and discover how Herod defied the odds to seize his throne.MOREThe Wise Men:Listen on AppleListen on SpotifyThe Great Jewish Revolt:Listen on AppleListen on Spotify Presented by Tristan Hughes. Audio editor is Aidan Lonergan. The producer is Joseph Knight. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.All music courtesy of Epidemic SoundsThe Ancients is a History Hit podcast.Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe. You can take part in our listener survey here:https://insights.historyhit.com/history-hit-podcast-always-on Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Herod the Great was often not-so-great, but the discovery and excavation of his tomb has revealed much we didn't previously know. World renowned archaeologist and professor Dr. Jodi Magness weighs in.Dr. Magness' 2-part lectureVIDEO of this conversationBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.

Have you given much thought to the legacy you'll leave behind? Discover how one man's legacy was turned upside-down in an instant, when he came face-to-face with the Son of God.

“King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem. He called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers of religious law and asked, ‘Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?’” (Matthew 2:3–4 NLT) Imagine for a moment that you’re living in first-century Jerusalem. You hear mysterious visitors from the east speak of a star that has been leading them to “the newborn king of the Jews.” These wise men are indicating that the long-awaited Messiah has come! You know from prophecy that the Messiah is to be born in Bethlehem, which is only five miles away. Wouldn’t you be inclined to make the short journey to check out their story? Wouldn’t you want to know if the Savior had come? Herod was right to expect answers from the leading priests and teachers of religious law as to where the Messiah would be born. And while they interpreted the writings of Micah properly, they should have been more invested in the matter. These men were the theological scholars of their day. They knew Scripture inside and out. It was their job to study its words and number its letters and lines to ensure careful copying of scrolls. They knew the details of God’s Word so well, but they cared so little. They knew where the Messiah would be born, but they didn’t care about a baby king as much as they cared about an adult monarch who could line their pockets with gold. They were too preoccupied to bother with Jesus. Nothing stunts spiritual growth like spiritual pride. It was true in the first century, and it’s true in the twenty-first century. When you approach the countless truths of God’s Word with an attitude of “I already know that,” or “I’ve already heard that,” or “That doesn’t apply to me,” you limit their impact on your life. You dull your senses to the wonders of Scripture. One of the devil’s masterstrokes is to use frequent exposure to Scripture to foster a sense of spiritual pride. Sometimes when you hear the Word of God again and again, you can enter a place of complacency, a place of apathy. You might even find yourself asleep, spiritually speaking. I find it interesting that many of the Bible’s warnings to “wake up” are addressed to believers. The apostle Paul wrote to the believers in Thessalonica, “So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be clearheaded” (1 Thessalonians 5:6 NLT). The religious scholars of the first century missed Jesus’ birth because they were in a spiritual slumber. If we’re not careful, we can miss the celebration of Jesus’ birth for the same reason. Approaching the Christmas season—and the Christian life—with an attitude of prideful familiarity keeps us from experiencing the life-changing blessings that Christ offers. It’s important that we stay humble and recognize that there is always more to learn, more to apply, and more to change. Reflection question: How can you stay humble, eager, and curious in your walk with Christ? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode reissue, Pastor Eric reminds us that the birth of Jesus is not an isolated moment—it's a pivotal chapter in the much bigger story God has been writing since the beginning. Scripture is full of hints and shadows pointing toward His arrival and His mission for humanity. But here's something we often overlook: Jesus spent the first two years of His life in exile.Matthew 2:13 tells us:“When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. ‘Get up,' he said, ‘take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.'”We talk a lot about the humble beginnings of Jesus, but we rarely pause to consider that He also lived as a refugee—away from home, outside of society, treated as a foreigner. From the very start, He experienced what it feels like to be on the margins. This shaped His heart and ministry, and it's part of why He understood so deeply the pain of the outcast, the rejected, the shamed, the lonely, and the overlooked.So this Christmas, remember this: Jesus doesn't just understand your story from a distance. He knows what it feels like to be alone and on the outside. Our prayer is that as we celebrate His birth, you would sense Him coming not only into the world but into your world—meeting you exactly where you are and bringing His presence, comfort, and hope into your life today.For more info, you can go to our website, check us out on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. If you would like to support STUDIO financially, you can do so here.Have a great week!

“Then Herod called for a private meeting with the wise men, and he learned from them the time when the star first appeared.” (Matthew 2:7 NLT) We can prepare our hearts for Christmas not just by reading God’s Word, but also by reflecting on it. We can celebrate the fact that Jesus’ coming fulfilled prophecies that had been announced centuries earlier. We can lean into the trustworthiness of its promises. We can anticipate the coming glory of God’s kingdom. If King Herod had reflected more on God’s Word, his story would have had a much different ending. Instead, he’s known today as the man who tried to stop the first Christmas. His efforts resulted in a spectacular failure and fall. With all his wealth and power, he came to complete ruin. Historical writings tell us that in the final year of his life, his body was infected with disease. Ironically, Herod pretended to be a worshipper. He said to the wise men, “Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. And when you find him, come back and tell me so that I can go and worship him, too!” (Matthew 2:8 NLT). Yet Herod was a false worshipper. There are people like him today. They say they believe in God, but they live a life that contradicts what the Scriptures teach. Herod wanted to be the king of his own life, but he really was a slave. He ended up being not the King of the Jews but the king of fools. Herod ended up on the ash heap of history like dictators before and after him, reminding us that those who live wicked lives eventually will reap what they sow. Adolf Hitler went into his bunker and shot himself as his nation crumbled around him. Saddam Hussein was found hiding in a hole and was eventually executed by his own people. Muammar Gaddafi was hunted down by his own people, beaten, and shot to death. All those who blaspheme God, fight with God, or try to stop the work of God eventually will fail. Yet God’s Word and His plan ultimately will prevail. Philippians 2:9–10 says, “Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth” (NLT). The glorification of Jesus is as inevitable as His birth. God gives us a choice. We can humble ourselves, submit to Christ, and enjoy His blessings. James endorsed this option. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor” (James 4:10 NLT). So did Peter. “So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor” (1 Peter 5:6 NLT). Or we can be humbled. One day, everyone—every man, every woman, every believer, and every nonbeliever—will bow before Jesus Christ. It’s inevitable. Reflection question: How can you elevate Christ in the way you live, the choices you make, and the things you prioritize? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Advent reveals that love and vulnerability are inseparable, for God entered the world not in power but in the fragile form of a baby laid in a manger. The incarnation isn't distant theology—it is God with us, meeting us in our fear, grief, and limitations with a love strong enough to overcome darkness. True courage mirrors the infant Christ: a willingness to embrace uncertainty, rely on help when we are helpless, and love even when it hurts. In a world afraid of weakness, Advent invites us to begin again with vulnerability, interdependence, and the radical truth that the Father's love is strong enough to save. --- Scripture: Matthew 2:17-24 Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: 18 “A voice is heard in Ramah,     weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children     and refusing to be comforted,     because they are no more.”[a] The Return to Nazareth 19 After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child's life are dead.” 21 So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, 23 and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.

Daily Dose of Hope December 8, 2025   Scripture – Acts 12   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, King of Kings and Lord of Lords, We give you all the glory and praise.  Thank you for being a God who provides.  Thank you for being a God who heals.  Thank you for being a God who sees past our brokenness and invites us into relationship with you.  Help us, Lord, to grow more deeply in love with you every day.  More of you and less of me.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are getting to the end of our reading plan after months of walking through the Gospels and Acts.  I would love to hear what you have learned.  What have been your big takeaways?    Today, we walk through Acts 12.  Things are getting rough for Peter and the Christians.  Persecution is increasing.  Herod is getting especially agitated and throws Peter in prison.  I want to talk about the miracle of Peter being released but first let's discuss the Herod dynasty because I think that's important.  The Herodians were given power of the region of Judea by the Romans.  While they were brutal and power-hungry, they did consider themselves to be Jews.  This Herod from Acts 12 is Herod Agrippa I.  His grandfather was Herod the Great; he was the Herod who called for the killing of the Jewish baby boys after Jesus' birth.  He was the nephew of Herod Antipas, who ordered the beheading of John the Baptist and to whom Jesus was brought.    All of these Herodian kings were insecure and felt easily threatened by those who criticized them or their way of life.  Thus, this Herod was persecuting Christians and had already executed James, the brother of John.    Peter is arrested and thrown in prison with many, many layers of security.  But no soldiers or shackles can stop God!  He sends an angel who frees Peter and leads him out of the prison to a home where many believers were meeting.  The believers had been praying fervently for Peter's release and then they were shocked when he shows up at the door of the home where they had gathered.  Talk about answered prayer!  This is just the beginning of the miracles God is going to do.   Do you believe in answered prayers?  Do you pray bold prayers like these believers?  The boldness of our prayers speak volumes about how we feel about God.  It's clear that the early church believed that God was all-powerful, that God was a God of miracles, a God of provision, and a God who would take care of their every need.  The big question is – do we?   Finally, let's talk about Herod's death.  After securing some kind of peace deal, King Herod stands before the people and gives his royal address.  The people go wild!  They begin to say this is the voice of a god, not a man.  And insecure Herod just soaks it up.  But God is having none of it, and he strikes him down dead.  Y'all, arrogance does not pay.  God calls his people to be humble.  All glory and honor belong to God.  Yes, there are times in which we can be appropriately proud but we have to be very, very careful.  The way of Christ is always humility.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

There’s more to the Christmas story than you may realize. There’s a prequel... In this message, Pastor Greg Laurie brings us to the story of a godly, elderly couple named Zechariah and Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist. Notes: Luke 1 Luke gives us the prequel, the story before the story. Luke opens by saying, “In the days of Herod.”That’s like saying, “In Germany, in the days of Hitler.” Heaven’s light was about to break. Read Luke 1:5–17 Luke’s narrative finds Israel in the midst of a long night of spiritual darkness. Israel was now under the control of mighty and cruel Rome.But there was something in the air that things were about to change. A promise to Israel of better days to come – Malachi 4:2 NIVBut for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Malachi 3:1 NIV“I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty. John the Baptist was the bridge between the Old Testament and the New Testament. God was now going to answer the prayer and heart cry of Israel. God sent the mighty angel Gabriel. The last appearance of an angel had been to the prophet Zechariah nearly five centuries earlier. Whenever angels appeared, they would say, “Do not be afraid!” Gabriel came to an elderly couple, Zacharias and Elizabeth. The name Zacharias means, “God remembers.”Elizabeth means, “My God is an oath.” God remembers His promises and always keeps His word. God was making up for lost time, and He gave them a baby like no other,John the Baptist. #1 Zacharias was a humble man. James 4:6 ESV“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” The obsession with ourselves is at the root of our problems. The humble Zacharias was a country priest. There were many priests in Israel at this time.To be a priest meant you represented the people to God. The priest also represented God to the people.The priest would interpret scripture, counsel, and provide wise judgment for the people. I understand that I, too, am a representative of God to people. You, too, are a priest.And you, too, represent God to people. You are the only bible some people will ever read. #2 Zacharias was a faithful man. God called:Moses, when he was tending sheep.David, while he was watching sheep,Elijah, when he was plowingPeter and John, when they were mending nets.God calls busy people. It’s hard to steer a parked car. If you are faithful in small things, God will give you greater opportunities. God has given to every believer spiritual gifts. Romans 12:6 NLTGod has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. Romans 12:7 NLTIf your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. Romans 12:8 NLTIf your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. Paul told Timothy to “not neglect the gift that is in you.” Zacharias was faithful to do what God had set before him. #3 Zacharias and Elizabeth were godly and blameless people. Luke 1:6 NKJVAnd they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. To be blameless does not mean they were sinless. They lived lives of integrity, not perfection. “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” Not to have any children was thought to be a curse from God. Little did they know that God would answer their prayers and give them a prophet. Their son, John, would be the greatest prophet of the Old Testament. Perhaps you are going through a time of difficulty right now. God was preparing Zacharias and Elizabeth for this day, and now the reward for faithfulness has come. Luke 1:13 NKJVBut the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. God hears our prayers as well. God promises us that if we call out to Him, He will hear and answer.Psalm 34:15 Jeremiah 33:3 NKJV“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Just because our prayers are not answered does not mean God does not hear them. There is an amazing story in Daniel 10 where a mighty angel appeared before the prophet.The angel told Daniel that the prophet’s prayer had been heard in heaven 21 days earlier. God’s delays are not necessarily his denials. The devil and his fallen angels are very active right now. Revelation 12:12b NIVThe devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury because he knows that his time is short. The bible tells us that in the last days there would be “satanically energized times” and that things would go from bad to worse. So, what should we do in light of this?We need to use our two secret weapons, preaching and prayer. We have no idea of what is going on in the invisible world of angels and demons.Revelation 8:3–4 God hears and stores our prayers; not one is wasted. Every prayer is answered with either yes, no, or wait. God is aware of each and every request made for His glory and in His will. God heard and recorded the prayer of this godly couple. Zacharias prayed for 30 years for a son.The reason he was surprised when Gabriel came was because he had prayed for so long. In the same way, your prayers are in God’s to-do box.Even if you have forgotten about them, God has not. Don’t give up on your prayers. This happened with the believers praying for the deliverance of Simon Peter.When the answer to their prayer arrived, they did not believe it. #4 Zacharias was human and flawed just like us! Luke 1:18 NKJVAnd Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” Luke 1:19 NKJVAnd the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. Luke 1:20 NKJV“But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words.” Zacharias could have rejoiced, but instead he questioned. We can choose to worship God, or we can choose to question God. It’s not a bad thing for a Christian to struggle or even ask God, “Why?” Some people have experienced tragedy and disappointment and have questions for God. But there comes a point when we choose to trust. Even John the Baptist had a momentary doubt.He misunderstood the mission of the Messiah like so many others. John, the greatest Old Testament prophet, sitting in a dungeon, sent word to Jesus, “Are You the One, or should we look for another?” Jesus reassured John and sent him back to the scriptures. Zacharias couldn’t speak, so he tried to explain what happened through hand gestures.Luke 1:21 Lessons from the lives of Zacharias and Elizabeth:To be humble and wait on the Lord and serve HimTo keep praying and not give up because our prayers are heard and rememberedTo believe what God tells you and act in faith, not by feeling The biblical characters were quite ordinary.They were hopelessly human, remarkably unremarkable. They were also available and obedient to the Master’s call. A 1964 Aston Martin sold for $4.6 million. The value is not in the car, but in the one who drove it. The same is true of us. The value isn’t in the vessel; it’s in the One who fills it. For centuries, the world waited. For decades, a faithful couple prayed.And at just the right time, God said, “Now!” Maybe you’ve been praying for something. Your “now” can begin today. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s more to the Christmas story than you may realize. There’s a prequel... In this message, Pastor Greg Laurie brings us to the story of a godly, elderly couple named Zechariah and Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist. Notes: Luke 1 Luke gives us the prequel, the story before the story. Luke opens by saying, “In the days of Herod.”That’s like saying, “In Germany, in the days of Hitler.” Heaven’s light was about to break. Read Luke 1:5–17 Luke’s narrative finds Israel in the midst of a long night of spiritual darkness. Israel was now under the control of mighty and cruel Rome.But there was something in the air that things were about to change. A promise to Israel of better days to come – Malachi 4:2 NIVBut for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Malachi 3:1 NIV“I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty. John the Baptist was the bridge between the Old Testament and the New Testament. God was now going to answer the prayer and heart cry of Israel. God sent the mighty angel Gabriel. The last appearance of an angel had been to the prophet Zechariah nearly five centuries earlier. Whenever angels appeared, they would say, “Do not be afraid!” Gabriel came to an elderly couple, Zacharias and Elizabeth. The name Zacharias means, “God remembers.”Elizabeth means, “My God is an oath.” God remembers His promises and always keeps His word. God was making up for lost time, and He gave them a baby like no other,John the Baptist. #1 Zacharias was a humble man. James 4:6 ESV“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” The obsession with ourselves is at the root of our problems. The humble Zacharias was a country priest. There were many priests in Israel at this time.To be a priest meant you represented the people to God. The priest also represented God to the people.The priest would interpret scripture, counsel, and provide wise judgment for the people. I understand that I, too, am a representative of God to people. You, too, are a priest.And you, too, represent God to people. You are the only bible some people will ever read. #2 Zacharias was a faithful man. God called:Moses, when he was tending sheep.David, while he was watching sheep,Elijah, when he was plowingPeter and John, when they were mending nets.God calls busy people. It’s hard to steer a parked car. If you are faithful in small things, God will give you greater opportunities. God has given to every believer spiritual gifts. Romans 12:6 NLTGod has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. Romans 12:7 NLTIf your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. Romans 12:8 NLTIf your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. Paul told Timothy to “not neglect the gift that is in you.” Zacharias was faithful to do what God had set before him. #3 Zacharias and Elizabeth were godly and blameless people. Luke 1:6 NKJVAnd they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. To be blameless does not mean they were sinless. They lived lives of integrity, not perfection. “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” Not to have any children was thought to be a curse from God. Little did they know that God would answer their prayers and give them a prophet. Their son, John, would be the greatest prophet of the Old Testament. Perhaps you are going through a time of difficulty right now. God was preparing Zacharias and Elizabeth for this day, and now the reward for faithfulness has come. Luke 1:13 NKJVBut the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. God hears our prayers as well. God promises us that if we call out to Him, He will hear and answer.Psalm 34:15 Jeremiah 33:3 NKJV“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Just because our prayers are not answered does not mean God does not hear them. There is an amazing story in Daniel 10 where a mighty angel appeared before the prophet.The angel told Daniel that the prophet’s prayer had been heard in heaven 21 days earlier. God’s delays are not necessarily his denials. The devil and his fallen angels are very active right now. Revelation 12:12b NIVThe devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury because he knows that his time is short. The bible tells us that in the last days there would be “satanically energized times” and that things would go from bad to worse. So, what should we do in light of this?We need to use our two secret weapons, preaching and prayer. We have no idea of what is going on in the invisible world of angels and demons.Revelation 8:3–4 God hears and stores our prayers; not one is wasted. Every prayer is answered with either yes, no, or wait. God is aware of each and every request made for His glory and in His will. God heard and recorded the prayer of this godly couple. Zacharias prayed for 30 years for a son.The reason he was surprised when Gabriel came was because he had prayed for so long. In the same way, your prayers are in God’s to-do box.Even if you have forgotten about them, God has not. Don’t give up on your prayers. This happened with the believers praying for the deliverance of Simon Peter.When the answer to their prayer arrived, they did not believe it. #4 Zacharias was human and flawed just like us! Luke 1:18 NKJVAnd Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” Luke 1:19 NKJVAnd the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. Luke 1:20 NKJV“But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words.” Zacharias could have rejoiced, but instead he questioned. We can choose to worship God, or we can choose to question God. It’s not a bad thing for a Christian to struggle or even ask God, “Why?” Some people have experienced tragedy and disappointment and have questions for God. But there comes a point when we choose to trust. Even John the Baptist had a momentary doubt.He misunderstood the mission of the Messiah like so many others. John, the greatest Old Testament prophet, sitting in a dungeon, sent word to Jesus, “Are You the One, or should we look for another?” Jesus reassured John and sent him back to the scriptures. Zacharias couldn’t speak, so he tried to explain what happened through hand gestures.Luke 1:21 Lessons from the lives of Zacharias and Elizabeth:To be humble and wait on the Lord and serve HimTo keep praying and not give up because our prayers are heard and rememberedTo believe what God tells you and act in faith, not by feeling The biblical characters were quite ordinary.They were hopelessly human, remarkably unremarkable. They were also available and obedient to the Master’s call. A 1964 Aston Martin sold for $4.6 million. The value is not in the car, but in the one who drove it. The same is true of us. The value isn’t in the vessel; it’s in the One who fills it. For centuries, the world waited. For decades, a faithful couple prayed.And at just the right time, God said, “Now!” Maybe you’ve been praying for something. Your “now” can begin today. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When life feels chaotic, we often do what Herod did—fight for control, protect our comfort, and try to manufacture a peace that never lasts. But the magi show a different way. Their response to Jesus was surrender, worship, and trust, and in that surrender they found the peace their hearts were searching for.In this week's message, Pastor Tyler reminds us that peace doesn't come from managing outcomes or holding our world together. Peace comes from laying down our lesser kingdoms and receiving the gift Jesus came to bring. The Prince of Peace has arrived—and His peace is available to you.Questions for Reflection:• What area of your life are you trying to control or “keep together” in order to feel at peace?• What would it look like this week to surrender that area to Jesus and trust His kingdom over your own?

Christmas Stories: The Three Responses Matthew 2:1-12 Message SlidesFor the bulletin in PDF form, click here. Opposition & HostilityIndifference & ApathyWorship & SacrificeHOME CHURCH QUESTIONS1. What are some of your family's Christmas traditions? What are your favorite Christmas stories or movies?2. What are some ways we see Herod's opposition and hostility toward Jesus in Matthew 2:1-12 & 16? Why do you think Herod is furious about the birth of Jesus? What are some modern examples of opposition and hostility toward Jesus?3. While we might not be opposed to Jesus the same way Herod was, we can still have “the spirit of Herod” in our lives. What are some characteristics of a life that is marked by the spirit of Herod? How would this contrast with the spirit of Jesus? What is an area of your life that could look more like the spirit of Jesus and less like the spirit of Herod?4. What are some examples from Matthew 2 that demonstrate how the Old Testament was anticipating the coming of Jesus? Why do you think the religious leaders are not more excited about the idea of Christ being born? 5. Have you ever talked with someone who was indifferent or apathetic toward Jesus? How would you respond to someone who said they are neutral or indifferent toward Him?6. According to Matthew 2:10-11, how do the wise men respond to Jesus? What are some ways we should follow their example? 7. What area of your life are you most hesitant to have Jesus “rearrange?” What would it look like for you to live like He is the King over that area of your life?Mission Highlight - The Adi Dravida in IndiaThe Adi Dravida in South India, have long faced social discrimination and poverty. Many work as farmers, laborers, or leather workers, though some are gaining access to education and professional jobs. Most follow Hinduism, with only a tiny Christian presence despite having Scripture available in Tamil. Pray that God would open doors for the gospel among the Adi Dravida, raise up Indian believers to build genuine friendships, and strengthen the few existing Christians to boldly share Christ within their communities.FinancesWeekly Budget 34,615Giving For 11/23 29,630Giving For 11/30 25,532YTD Budget 761,538Giving 698,433 OVER/(UNDER) (63,105) Fellowship 101New to Fellowship? We invite you to join us on Sunday, January 11th, at 9 AM in the conference room (first floor) to hear about our mission, values, and ministries. During this time, you will meet some of our ministry leaders and get to ask questions. Register at fellowshipconway.org/register. This is an important step in getting connected at Fellowship. New to Fellowship?We are so glad that you chose to worship with our Fellowship Family this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Christmas OfferingThis December, we are taking up a special offering for the Operation Christmas Child Special Pack (held in October 2026). The gifts received will determine the number of boxes we can send. To send each gospel opportunity (box), it costs $20 for items, transportation, and the tools needed to share the hope found in Christ with a child. Please consider giving above and beyond your regular giving to the worthy cause of getting the gospel to sensitive areas that are difficult to reach. You can give online by going to fellowshipconway.org/give and selecting “Christmas Offering” from the options. To give an idea of what we are trying to raise, we packed 2,800 boxes last year, which is equal to $56,000. We would love to do even more next year!Fellowship Women's Hebrews Bible StudyThis February, join us for Jesus Is Greater—an eight-week Bible study through the book of Hebrews created to deepen your faith, renew your hope, and connect you with other women pursuing Jesus. Led by Rebecca Carter and Heather Harrison, we'll meet on Tuesday nights at 6:30 p.m., beginning February 3rd at Fellowship. Free childcare by texting Shanna at 501-336-0332 by January 28th. Register at fellowshipconway.org/women.Men's Fellowship BreakfastJoin us on Wednesday, December 10, at 6:00 a.m. in the Fellowship Atrium for a great morning of food, fellowship, and encouragement. No sign-up is required—just bring your Bible and come ready to enjoy breakfast, connect with other men, and start your day with prayer and Biblical insight. Questions? Contact Michael at mharrison@fellowshipconway.org.OCC Celebration | December 14Join us next Sunday as we put a bow on National Collection Week and celebrate what God has done! We'll reveal the total number of shoeboxes packed at Fellowship and across the entire River Valley Area. You won't want to miss this moment of gratitude and praise — and please keep praying for every child who will receive a shoebox!Join a Home ChurchHome Church small groups are about building a deep community where we are transformed into the image of Christ and serve a broken world for the sake of the gospel. If you are not in a Home Church, we encourage you go to fellowshipconway.org/homechurch or stop by the Connection table in the Atrium.

Has God's whispering voice felt distant this Christmas season? In this compelling message, Pastor Dave unpacks how the story of the Grinch parallels deeper spiritual truths about finding authentic Christmas joy. Through engaging movie clips and biblical wisdom, he reveals how comparison, consumerism, and isolation can shrink our hearts—but God offers three unshakeable gifts: everlasting peace, exceeding joy, and overflowing hope. Whether you're feeling weary or wondering where Christmas went, this transformative message reminds us that Christ came to heal hearts and make us whole. Don't miss this fresh perspective on rediscovering the true meaning of Christmas! 2 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold,]wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 So they said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet: 6 ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.' ” 7 Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also.”Proverbs 4:23 Keep your heart with all diligence,For out of it spring the issues of life.John 14:27 27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;The Message Translation - Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.LUKE 2:8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And [c]behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”

Send us a textIn this episode of 'Pondering the Bible,' co-hosts Ken Corkins and Rocky Ellison delve into Matthew Chapter 2, focusing on the wise men's visit to Jesus. They discuss the timing of Jesus' birth, the historical inaccuracies of the December 25th date, the significance of Bethlehem, and the wise men's journey from the East guided by a divine star. The hosts also explore Herod's reaction to the news of a newborn king, his deceitful plot, and the practical and symbolic meanings behind the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Additionally, they address common misconceptions about the nativity scene and the true timeline of events.The sermon for this episode is titled "Misunderstood" and can be found at pondergmc.org/ministries/sermonsNEW!: Rate us at Podchaser Find us at www.pondergmc.org. Feedback is welcome: PonderMethodist@gmail.com Music performed by the Ponder GMC worship team. Cover Art: Joe Wagner Recorded, edited and mixed by Snikrock

Great Restoration and Revival (3) (audio) David Eells – 12/7/25 Do you know why God speaks to us in parables as in Jesus, the Man-child's day? He said, To hide these things from the wise and prudent that He may reveal them unto babes… I want to share with you some revelations to help you and encourage you to be spiritually prepared for tribulation and the outpouring of the latter rain anointing.   Terrorism, Spiritual Invasion and Apostasy Don Lett - 06/22/2008 (David's notes in red) For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Eph.6:12) (At first, this appears to be a physical terrorist attack, but the further you read on, the more it is revealed to be a spiritual invasion and attack on the U.S. and Christians.) Somehow, I found out about a terrorist attack that was going to occur on an Air Force base where I was staying. Although this base seemed like a normal civilian area. (The U.S. is the eagle of the “Lion with Eagles Wings” of Babylon. It is called this partially because of its air superiority. I believe the U.S. is the air force base in the “normal civilian area”.) I was in a bathroom hiding, and I could see that a group of Caucasian, American-looking men had captured most of the leadership on the base. (The enemy looks like average Americans but has a foreign ideology and spirit.) I looked behind me and saw that the General of the base was incapacitated and a little bloody. He wasn't able to stop this attack. The terrorists were looking for him but couldn't find him. I decided that he was OK and that he would be safely hidden in this bathroom. (The corporate beast spirit body from the pit has infiltrated and captured the minds of most of the leadership of the U.S. and is using them for their one world order purposes against the saints.) In another room to my rear, I could see a baby being watched by an adult. They were safe for the time being in a glass room, but I had no idea what was getting ready to take place. (The alien terrorist attack is happening to raise up this dragon/beast entity over the U.S. and bring down the freedoms we have known in the past. The baby is the newborn corporate Man-child that the beast entity wants to extinguish, as Herod attempted in the Gospels and the dragon will attempt in the Rev.12 end-time parallel. However, this baby, although visible, is safely caught up to heavenly places in Christ. The beast that is taking over all nations is the real terrorist that will make war against the saints.) I was scared, but I also noticed there was an escape route to the rear. I had to warn the authorities on base. I went straight to the guard shack at the check-in point. When I told the guards that I needed to talk to someone immediately about something that was going to occur, an MP car pulled up. They suggested that I inform the MPs who were in the car. They rolled down their window, and I leaned down to begin to tell them about the terrorists. But then I remembered that part of the plan was to infiltrate the base with other terrorists. I wasn't sure if these were real MPs or terrorists in disguise. I asked the MPs in the guard shack if they had ever seen these individuals before. They said no. (We really don't know who can receive our warning of this invasion. Some whom we think are brethren we find out are really the enemy.) I went and spoke to another MP whom they did recognize. As I was explaining to him about the terrorists, several people from my past were walking by and casually listening with interest, but not alarm, like J____. The MP seemed interested but not alarmed either. But it appeared that he would take someone to investigate these claims. (Most authorities will not take this spiritual alien invasion seriously, and others have already been taken over by it.) Next thing you know, I was sitting at a long table with a group of other civilians who were eating. Most of them, it seems, knew that I had found out about this terrorist attack. Some family members then began to brag about T___, who they said was getting these amazing words from God. The method that she was getting this word was from occult spiritualism or witchcraft-type practice. (Many times masquerading as Christian gifts.) They thought of her as a white witch. When they explained this to me, I told them right away that this is not the way that God works and that she was being influenced by a familiar spirit, but they didn't believe me. Just then, a very old friend from my past, S____, began to tell me what a hypocrite I am because of something I had done to him when I was a teenager (30 years or so ago). I told him that I was sorry and explained to him about forgiveness and how I had completely forgotten about this incident that had held him in captivity for so long. I asked him to let it go. (Many will be taken in because they are turned over to the tormentors for their own unforgiveness.) I turned my attention back to T____. My family members continued to press me about how God was speaking through her and that she was a good witch. And I reiterated that God didn't work this way. I told them that if they would meet with me outside, I would lay hands on her and cast this demon out. They still didn't believe me, but decided to meet with me, probably to prove that she was getting the word from God. (Many today pay no attention to the source of knowledge and power in these fakes since they are infiltrated with the enemy, but if we hold fast to the scriptures, we will know them.) While walking to meet with her, I got mixed up in a Catholic procession. They were singing “Amazing Grace”, but I could not get in tune with the way they were singing it. I tried several times and eventually got frustrated and stopped walking and singing with them. (The righteous will not assimilate into the larger end-time Universal, meaning Catholic, religion of the new world order that turns grace into lasciviousness.) I ended up in a different room. I noticed T____ walking with the group as they were walking in a line up a ramped corridor. The wall between us had an opening about one foot high at the neck so that I could see the faces of those walking. T____ was walking with them. I remembered that she looked pretty, but something was very odd about her countenance. Everyone seemed to be walking in an almost trance-like state. (Those who are into the witchcraft of rebellion to the Word will be assimilated by the alien spirits.) I had to go downstairs to meet with her and found myself on an elevator with a bunch of other people. This elevator was wide open without even a handrail. As I was going down the elevator, I was praying that God could do this work through me. I was concerned that I had not been close enough to God lately to cast this powerful demon out. (Closeness to the Lord enables us to be useful in the deliverance of our brethren.) When I came downstairs, there were a lot of activities. A lot of people I knew were playing basketball. I wanted to join them, but I had to take care of this first. I was still very concerned that I wouldn't be able to cast this demon out. Several people stopped me on the way to that side of the room to say hi. I quickly said hi and continued to move toward my cousin. (Most are caught up in the game of competition and scoring points between the sects of Christianity and are unaware of the spiritual alien invasion in their midst.) When I finally made my way past the basketball court, more acquaintances whom I had not seen in a while wanted to say hi. I gave a friend of mine a hug and said hi, and continued to move on. Finally, I got face-to-face with T___. I told her that I was going to lay hands on her, and just as I began to lay hands on her, a very shapely woman, whom I had never met, dressed in a turquoise stretchy dress that was cut very low at the breasts and high on the thighs, came out of nowhere and approached me to hug me. None of this made any sense to me that such a beautiful lady, whom I had never seen before, would come up to me and decide to hug me. I knew this had to be the work of the enemy. (The harlot of apostate Christianity seeks to seduce those who seek to deliver its adherents.) I thought about some of David Eells' teachings, and I held my hand out and said, “Lord, take this demon away from me”. (Or maybe, “Don't allow this demon to touch me”.) I was astonished by what happened next. This lady was lifted off the ground about an inch or two and slid backward about 10 to 15 feet and landed in a chair. She had her back arched, and you could see spiritual demonic activity above her chest. This startled me so much that I awoke from the dream. (The Word will cause the elect to recognize strong delusions of apostasy.)   My Interpretation: The Air Force base is the U.S. “This building (the Pentagon) will be attacked 3 million times today”. It is protected by the Air Force from cyberattacks. Terrorists are not Muslims; they are ordinary-looking Americans. Christian babies are somewhat protected, but they are totally unaware of the dangers. They are protected for a time, but the room is made of glass. These people have infiltrated a large part of our police forces (and government organizations). People will listen mostly out of interest but not out of concern. People have no problem listening to false prophets, but don't believe the Word of God. Satan will attempt to divert us from our mission by using: False prophets Past wrongs you committed Family members False religions You question your confidence in your walk with the Lord Extra-curricular activities Friends Lusts The Personality Profiles: J____- nominal but professing Christians, with very little biblical knowledge and virtually no relationship with Christ S____ - former Christian having fallen from the faith. Atheist or agnostic at best T____ - little or no biblical knowledge, professing a relationship with God   The Cross Revives the Church  Eve Brast - 10/04/2016 (David's notes in red) I dreamed that my son Elijah and I were making our way through crowds of frustrated people in an airport. (Elijah represents the John the Baptist ministry calling God's people to repentance.) (Without repentance God's people cannot live in heavenly places above this world. (Mal.4:5) Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and terrible day of Jehovah come. 6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers; lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. The children don't know their fathers in the faith. All they have known is Babylonian false prophets and haven't grown up.) The people were angry and frustrated because an announcement had been made overhead that all flights were "delayed" and no one knew why. (Flights being delayed are representative of earthly bondages continuing.) Why do earthly bondages continue? They don't know their need because they don't know their spiritual fathers. (Eph.1:3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ... All of our needs are supplied in heavenly places by abiding in Christ, Who is the Word. When we do not depart from the Word, we are a heavenly creation with heavenly benefits. Right behind John's repentance came Jesus and the church fathers.) (I asked Father for a word concerning the announcement of the delayed flights in the airport and received (Isa.1:25) I will turn my hand on you, thoroughly purge away your dross, and will take away all your tin. 26 I will restore your judges as at the first, and your counselors (Fathers) as at the beginning. Afterward you shall be called 'The city of righteousness, a faithful town'.) As we came up to the last terminal (time is running out), an older woman with blonde hair that had streaks of gray throughout, wearing a head covering, came up to us and pleaded with us to come and help her daughter, who was being a rebellious teenager. She was concerned because her daughter would not obey her concerning staying home and helping her clean the house and her bedroom. (Representing sanctification or "holiness without which no man shall see the Lord".) She kept sneaking out of the house to hang out with her friends at the mall and go shopping. (This woman represents the original church whose daughter has gone astray [in immature rebellion]. I believe there is one daughter in this dream because she represents the elect of God who will return to the true church. (Time is running out for the rebels to escape the power of this world before the judgments come. (Rom.2:3) And reckonest thou this, O man, who judgest them that practise such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God? (The rebellious teenager/church is about to miss her plane to safety.) (Luk.21:34) But take heed to yourselves, lest haply your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day come on you suddenly as a snare: 35 for so shall it come upon all them that dwell on the face of all the earth. (Meaning those not in heavenly places in Christ.) 36 But watch ye at every season, making supplication, that ye may prevail to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. (Heb.2:3) how shall we escape, if we neglect so great a salvation? which having at the first been spoken through the Lord, was confirmed unto us by them that heard. (Heavenly places is to be caught up to the throne of God's authority over this cursed world.) 4 God also bearing witness with them, both by signs and wonders, and by manifold powers, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to his own will. 5 For not unto angels did he subject the world to come, whereof we speak. 6 But one hath somewhere testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? Or the son of man, that thou visitest him? 7 Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; Thou crownedst him with glory and honor, And didst set him over the works of thy hands: 8 Thou didst put all things in subjection under his feet. (To be in the heavens is to have everything worldly and all of the curse under your feet.) For in that he subjected all things unto him, he left nothing that is not subject to him. But now we see not yet all things subjected to him. (Whose fault is that? Jesus said that we have heavenly authority over this earth and its curse in (Mat.16:19) I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. (Rev.3:21) He that overcometh (the teenager rebellion and lust), I will give to him to sit down with me in my throne, as I also overcame, and sat down with my Father in his throne.) While the woman was lamenting to us about the daughter, I noticed an escalator off to the side of the terminal. I noticed that there were many people packed onto the downside (falling away) and only two or three individuals going up on the upside (those ascending to heavenly throne authority) to the next level. (Only one out of the four bore fruit in the parable of the sower.) (We are called to heavenly places, which are in Christ. Much of the church is earth-bound because they have not learned to abide in Christ, Who is the Word.) Then the woman's voice came back into my focus and hearing as Elijah was agreeing that we would go with her to her house and help her daughter. (The Bride will bring repentance to the rebellious church but not before some judgment arrives.) The scene changed as we found ourselves standing at the entrance to the daughter's bedroom from within the house. The mother was opening the door and gesturing for us to enter. Her daughter's room looked like a shop at the mall. (Love of the earthly stops one from receiving love of the heavenly places.) Shoe displays and mannequin torsos were displaying risqué teen clothing. (Many are in idolatry [and lust] with the world.) The mother explained that the daughter was hardly ever home, choosing to be at the mall and with her friends over home life with the family. (The heavenly family has been departed from, for earthly pursuits. We all know people like this who are full of excuses, but they will find out too late that they didn't eat their Word.) Elijah and I (Eve, the Bride) began to walk around the room to get an idea of what to say to the daughter and how to help her. I noticed a white door with glass panes in the top half, and on the other side of the room, which led into the room from the outside. There was a short hall entryway between the room and the door. (The door is Christ and represents salvation.) I noticed some activity going on in the entryway. (This is where most of the Church stops, not bearing the fruit of Christ in their soul and ministry.) David was busy doing something. Then Michael came up to us and began explaining about a project that David had been working on for a while for this girl. Michael showed me a few of the nails that he had helped gather for the project. He had quite a few gathered in a small silver metal bucket near the wall of the entryway. (The nails are to hold our flesh on our cross so that we may have the resurrection life of Christ in heavenly places of throne authority.) (David and Michael are representative of the Man-child ministers who have been prepared and are preparing for this end-time harvest.) Suddenly, a bunch of the Local UBM brethren came into the room in the same direction that Elijah and I had entered. I saw that everyone was cooperating with one another to transform the daughter's room. (The apostate Church will see a role model in the Bride that they never did in their leadership.) I saw M. L. consulting with the other ladies to alter all the clothing into more appropriate things for the daughter to wear. (The mature don't flash flesh, they crucify it. Modesty is a necessity.) The men were discussing how to move around some of the shelves (too many of God's things are on shelves) and bring in appropriate furniture for a bedroom. (To rest in faith in God's promises.) (Being in one accord and one Spirit with body ministry for our little sister.) (It appears a little sister was matured and glorified. (Psa.45:13) The king's daughter within the palace is all glorious: Her clothing is inwrought with gold. 14 She shall be led unto the king in broidered work: The virgins her companions that follow her Shall be brought unto thee. 15 With gladness and rejoicing shall they be led: They shall enter into the king's palace. 16 Instead of thy fathers shall be thy children, Whom thou shalt make princes in all the earth. And it appears that she became a spiritual mother to many.) Then the door to the outside opened, and David stepped over the threshold carrying a large, lightweight transparent cross over his right shoulder. (The Davids will first bear the cross to death of themselves so that they may give it to others. (Heb.12:2) looking unto Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising shame, and hath sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.) Michael said excitedly, "There it is. That's the project!" I asked Father for a word concerning David and Michael and the project and received 1 Timothy 2:5 (context: 5,6). (1Ti.2:5) For there is one God, one mediator also between God and men, himself man, Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself a ransom for all; the testimony to be borne in its own times. (Just as Jesus paid the price for us to be freed, so will He do it in the Man-child, and much fruit will be borne. (Joh.12:24) Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a grain of wheat fall into the earth and die, it abideth by itself alone; but if it die, it beareth much fruit.) David knelt down and gently laid the cross down with the foot at the threshold and the head where the room began. He reached over the cross and pulled the bucket of nails toward him as Michael went over and handed him a heavy hammer. As David pulled the nails out of the bucket, they began to light up a beautiful sky blue like neon signs. He nailed them in groups of three at all four points on the cross. (Giving others an example of death to self. There were 12 blue nails representing discipleship. This cross bridges the gap so that those who are without can enter the house. (Representing the now-holy house and place of heavenly provision. No cross, no crown.]) Once David had finished, the daughter came home, and as she stood looking in amazement at the entryway, she couldn't believe that David had cared enough to do that for her. She was so touched that she had to come in and see the rest of the room. (The Church's eyes will be opened through the crucifixion of the Man-child, and they will enter into the Kingdom life.) She was amazed at how we had all worked together to transform her room, and she really liked what she saw. Everything was so new to her as she walked around admiring the transformation. I went over to her as she stood in front of some shelves that the men had restored. I watched her pick up some sort of tool off the shelf, wondering what it was. It had a part of it that glowed blue like the nails in the cross. I began to explain to her what it was and how to use it. Her face was filled with wonder as I watched her transform before my eyes into a young boy with beautiful blonde hair. (The transformation of our little sister into Christlikeness through our witness and examples. Showing her how to use the tools of the Gospel in order to overcome.) Then I woke up. I asked Father for a verse or text for this dream and received by random John 20:19 (context: 19-23). (Joh.20:19) When therefore it was evening, on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. 20 And when he had said this, he showed unto them his hands and his side. (Proofs of crucifixion and resurrection.) The disciples therefore were glad, when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus therefore said to them again, Peace be unto you: as the Father hath sent me, even so send I you. (Through spiritual crucifixion and resurrection.) 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Spirit (The great power of God to lose our life to gain Jesus' life and ministry.): 23 whose soever sins ye forgive, they are forgiven unto them; whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.   Spiritual Food for the Tribulation Janie McManus - 04/30/2009 (David's notes in red) Generally, I wake up early, by 6:00 AM, to pray and read the Word, but this morning when I awoke, I wanted to sleep some more. It was my day off and I had a long list of things to do, and I thought, Oh no, what will happen if I stay in bed? Then I sensed the Holy Spirit say, “Sleep. I want to give you a gift”. I drifted off into sleep and dreamed I was within a group of people being herded along urban streets, and jostling among folks. (This is in the hard times of tribulation when the World Beast will take charge of people's lives.) I realized that I was not among people I knew, but we seemed about the same middle, lower-middle class crowd -- no one too fancy, and basically healthy. So I am standing in the middle of all these sacks of grain, and we have to move, suddenly, like we were being driven, so I asked the ones around me, “Can you help me carry these sacks?” (The Word we need to live by), and they laughed, saying, “No need to drag that along; we get plenty to eat”. (Those who set aside obedience to the scripture.) But I figured, this is perfectly good grain, and I am not going to just throw it away, so I loaded my pack and pockets, and we walked and jogged on. (Revival among the poor, outside the camp of mainstream churchianity, who will “load up” on the grain of God's Word.) Soon we stopped, out on this country road, and long board tables were set out, and we were instructed to line up on the sides, and then plates were put in front of us filled with this mush, which, on closer inspection, was filled with maggots. Looking up and down the length of the table, I saw people just pick up the plates and start shoveling it in. (The Beast and their false prophets will feed their corrupt teachings to the spiritually starving.) Needless to say, I was NOT hungry, so I wandered away from the table and snatched a few grains to chew on.  Immediately, I could hear the boots of these uniformed troops as they rushed up to the table to see if the food was eaten and all the plates were empty, except mine. In a gruff voice, they asked, “Whose plate is this?” and everyone who had been alongside me turned and pointed to me, but the troops just stormed past me, as though I wasn't there. (Martial law will enforce the harlot's wishes on the multitudes, as in Jesus' day. Our site has testimonies of people being invisible to the enemy as they served the Lord. Jesus passed through the midst of those who would kill Him. Peter passed two trained guards as an angel led him out of prison.) This wearying trek of meals and marching kept being repeated, and I just munched on my grain and shared with anyone who asked for some. (The righteous will carry the Word to those hungry for life.) At first, everyone liked the sweet taste, but they didn't like chewing it, so they spit it out, preferring the gruel. (The clean beasts chew the cud until the Word is thoroughly digestible and useful to the body.) The ones who did eat from both sources became sort of shadowy and wispy (spiritual), but also fearful, and they began to hide. (Those who begin to mix the Word in with their traditions become more spiritual, but their corrupt lives are condemned, and they fear the Lord without an understanding of grace.) Then they refused to eat what I offered and they became “solid” (fleshly) again but everyone had sort of an oily, flabby, fleshy muscle tone, and they wheezed in an unhealthy way. (Those who hear the Word and turn back to walk in the flesh will be cursed. (2 Pet.2:20) For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein and overcome, the last state is become worse with them than the first. 21 For it were better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after knowing it, to turn back from the holy commandment delivered unto them. 22 It has happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog turning to his own vomit again, and the sow that had washed to wallowing in the mire.) Eventually, we came to a small strip mall that had already been looted, and all the folks rushed into the ransacked stores to see if there was anything they could yet steal. Some were stuffing CDs and techno things into their packs, which was dumb, since they had no electricity or batteries. (The mall represents the buying and selling of the merchants of Babylonish Christianity. They don't know that they have been plundered of anything useful and what is left is useless and powerless.) In the strip mall, I saw that there was a Christian bookstore and, although the windows were smashed, the shelves had been swept clear (no knowledge of God left) and piles of books were on the floor. (What knowledge was there was on the lowest level. The smashed windows represent no clear vision.) I went and picked up a book off the floor and, when I lifted it, all this ash fell out; I looked at the pages, and they were completely empty. When I sifted through the ashes, I found a few little stones. When I licked one off, it proved to be a tiny diamond, hard and translucent. (The only value in the teachings of Babylon is when they quote the scriptures. Nothing else will endure the fires of tribulation.) I wrestled with whether I ought to pocket the tiny diamonds or leave them behind. I searched for some Bibles but found none. (The Word will not be found in the government-approved churches.) I went up to a full bookshelf and opened a standing book. Instantly, the printed words crumbled and slid off the page -- all of them except some bold-print quotes. Suddenly, these leapt off the page and coiled up like microfilm (hidden treasures) and fell at my feet. I realized these words were direct Bible quotes and they were the tiny diamonds. So I scooped up as many as I could gather before the marching orders were barked out. (The Bible will be treasured by the hungry and destroyed by the wicked.) The people were gathering out in the front parking lot of the mall, so I went out to join them. They saw all the diamonds I had, tackled me and looted me! They were shaking me down and gulping down the diamonds by the fistful, without even chewing them, and then left me on the curb, in the middle of nowhere, and went on. (Those apostates who hear but do not digest the Word of truth will persecute the righteous. (Mat.7:6) Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast your pearls before the swine, lest haply they trample them under their feet, and turn and rend you.) I saw that the back door of the store was standing open, and I dragged myself over to the door. There was an enormous interior space that was floored like a warehouse, and there were people in low wheelchairs scooting back and forth, from one end of the mall to the other. I felt afraid for them, realizing that they were the ones who would be culled from the herd, but I “understood” that these were below the radar: “In their weakness, God's strength is made perfect”; so, even though they were physically handicapped, they were rather healthier than the others. (Those whom the world considers crippled and unworthy of its company, God chooses and protects. (1 Cor.1:26) For behold your calling, brethren, that not many wise after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called]: 27 but God chose the foolish things of the world, that he might put to shame them that are wise; and God chose the weak things of the world, that he might put to shame the things that are strong; 28 and the base things of the world, and the things that are despised, did God choose, [yea] and the things that are not, that he might bring to nought the things that are: 29 that no flesh should glory before God.) On the far end, there was a kindly woman who was feeding the handicapped handfuls of the diamonds. The kindly woman was spry and very old (strength and maturity); she came up and asked me if I was a Christian. I said yes, and then she asked, “How do you know?” I began sobbing and saying, “I was hungry and thirsty” (I felt like a little child who was over-tired). I then said, “Because I only want to eat diamonds” (You know you are a Christian when you hunger and thirst for the pure Word. (Mat.18:3) and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye turn, and become as little children, ye shall in no wise enter into the kingdom of heaven. 4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.) This made me cry even more because I felt I had given the wrong answer. I started wailing and weeping and saying, “I gave all the grain I had to the others, and they hate me. I try to walk with them and I share what I have, and I don't make trouble”. (Many “on fire Christians” have had the sad experience of trying but failing to fit in among the apostates and being persecuted for it.) I went on and on about all the stuff I had done, knowing it all sounded so foolish, and I was overcome with exhaustion and was sobbing uncontrollably. (Failure to reach many lost souls with the true Word will be a grief to many saints.) She gently put her hand on my shoulder and said, “You must go on now”. Suddenly, she paused, turned and asked me, “Do you know how to get more diamonds whenever you want?” Before I answered, she held up a single page of NT scripture for me to see. The page was almost sheer, and the lettering was moving like tiny rivulets of water (as “living water”) and she asked me, “Do you recognize any of this?” I began crying and with such intense joy that it hurt, and I could not even see through my tears. I reached up to try and grab the whole page to try to stuff it in my mouth, but she would not let me lay hold of it. (Reading it too fast and missing the details.) Laughing, she said, “No, you sit still and read the words so you can hear what they say and see what they mean”. Calming myself down, I sat to read, and whenever I came to words I knew, they suddenly froze and became like a sticker or label. (As we meditate on the Word, it becomes real to us -- digested into our being.) She said, “Peel them off and eat that,” so I did just that. Some passages I ate 10 or 15 times, but immediately after peeling off the label/passage, they were replaced. So, like a hungry man, I gorged myself and thought I could eat until I fell asleep. She said, “Now, you can keep eating whenever you want, or you can lug the grain sack around”. I was puzzled and asked, “Where will I carry it?” and she said, “It is in your mind and in your heart, but you must stand still and look for it and ask for it; there it will be”. (There is a time when we only carry the Word of God in our hand, but as we digest it, the Holy Spirit is able to bring it up out of our hearts to meet the needs around us.) Then she again said, “You must go on now”. Now I was greatly strengthened, rested and fed. I even began to wake up, ready to conquer the day, but I heard her voice say, “Wait, there is more”, and I fell into sleep again, into the same dream. I was being dragged out of the crowd in the middle of a campground by some of the people I had fed earlier, and they began dragging me toward the troops. I didn't feel a bit afraid and I wasn't resisting. I said to them, “Let's just stand here; they can come over to us”, which they did immediately! (The apostate church will use the beast government to persecute those whose doctrine doesn't please their flesh.) The troops asked, “Where is she?” and the others said, “Right here, between us”, which I thought was odd; they would have had to be blind not to see me. (God will, in some cases, physically blind the wicked to protect His saints. They are “hidden with Christ in God”. The spiritual blindness of the OT law and the letter of the Word “veils” the eyes and mind of apostate persecutors.) So they instructed the ones holding me to restrain me, but I calmly stood up straight and tall, and watched as one of the troops lifted an enormous sword (like in the movie Braveheart) high above his head, and in slow motion watched it drop to the crown of my head. It sliced me right in half, all the way to my ankles, and there at my feet were all my clothes and all around my feet was a pile of these diamonds, like I was some sort of grain sack that had been slit open. (Just as Jesus was “the Word made flesh”, so it will be with His disciples. The persecution will reveal this to those who have eyes to see.) I felt the embarrassment of a dream when you are completely naked, yet no one even saw me, so I stood still. The ones holding my arms let go of me and dove on top of my clothing and started tearing them, eating them, ripping them up, and passing them around. (When Jesus was naked and crucified, they parted His garments. The garments of the righteous represent the “righteous acts of the saints”, as in Rev.19:8,14. The apostates devour the righteous through their denigrating words and accusations. (Gal.5:15) But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.) Oddly, everyone wanted some of the fabric, and everyone was gobbling up the diamonds, but completely forgot about me. (In the same way, they will criticize the truths of the Word that the saints have become, but God will reprobate them.) When they turned away to march on, I noticed that no longer were they people, but almost like half-pig, half-human, and the feces that fell behind them were loaded with the diamonds -- unchewed, undigested, and unharmed -- just dirty. (Like sows that had washed, they return to wallow in the mire. The church world and its greedy leadership have polluted the truths of God's Word. They have not digested the true meaning of the Scriptures. Please read all of Eze.34. Verse (Eze.34:18) Seemeth it a small thing unto you to have fed upon the good pasture, but ye must tread down with your feet the residue of your pasture? and to have drunk of the clear waters, but ye must foul the residue with your feet? 19 And as for my sheep, they eat that which ye have trodden with your feet, and they drink that which ye have fouled with your feet.) I reached out, hesitant to touch the “stuff” but saw my hand was covered in a white glove, so I looked for something to put the rescued diamonds in and wondered where I would get water to wash them off. I squatted down and saw (to my relief) that my knees were covered in this satiny, sheer curtain-like fabric, and low down I could hear water trickling. (The humble may go to their knees to find wisdom from God to turn the polluted hearts of the deceived to the pure Word. The white glove represents works of righteousness, as you take the clean water of the Word and Spirit.) I noticed then that ALL OVER the ground lay bodies of dead people. I was horrified and astounded. So I stood up and began to sing. The more I sang, the more clearly I could see the bodies. Some were being eaten by grubs, but others were rather like fertile ground, and when I flipped them over, they were filled with earthworms. In those bodies, I “planted” some of the diamonds, just out of curiosity. Suddenly, I watched the diamonds unfurl, and all the letters began sprouting roots and tendrils; they were alive! I became engrossed in putting out the diamonds, like one planting seeds by hand in a furrow. (The true gospel saves, heals, delivers, and resurrects those who are dead in sin.) When I looked back, the field was filling with people coming out of the ground, who immediately turned to begin tilling the ground and planting bodies! We were all quite busy and a multitude was coming alive. (The sowers of the Word will sow the seed and bring forth life in others, who in turn go to work in the field.) I woke myself up, shook off sleep, got out of bed, and went to start a load of laundry, thinking, ‘Now that was weird!' (We have been exhorted by this dream to clean up the garments of our works so that we are not partakers of the defilements of Babylon by their religious spirits. (Exo.19:10) And Jehovah said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to-day and to-morrow, and let them wash their garments... (Num. 8:21) And the Levites purified themselves from sin, and they washed their clothes... (31:24) And ye shall wash your clothes on the seventh day, and ye shall be clean; and afterward ye shall come into the camp.) I have a little box of scripture verses that are about 70 years old, from my grandmother's house, next to my washing machine. So, waiting for the water to fill the tub, I chose a card at random to read; it was (Mat. 7:7) Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.   Wolves and the John the Baptist Revival Eve Brast - 04/27/2016 (David's notes in red) Wolves of all kinds wait to pick off the new believers in this revival before they can mature. Pray for them, brethren, and do spiritual warfare against the demonic enemies. This repentance revival must succeed, or a great curse will come upon this country. John the Baptist came in the spirit of Elijah, according to Jesus. (Mal.4:5) Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and terrible day of Jehovah come. (6) And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers; lest I come and smite the earth with a curse. Are these apostate leaders the children's fathers? No, the early Church fathers are their fathers. And the Man-child, Bride, and witnesses are their fathers. This revival will point them to these fathers. I dreamed I had just given birth to my son Elijah on top of a large white round table in the center of a cafeteria. My husband was standing to my right and holding my hand. (Her husband represents the Lord.) He was so happy and proud of his new son. We both knew the baby was very special. (I believe this represents the Bride birthing through prayer the John the Baptist revival, which precedes Jesus in the Man-child reformers.) Then, some cafeteria workers posing as hospital nursery employees came to take Elijah to the nursery and asked us if we wanted him circumcised. (Cafeteria workers are they who feed spiritual or, in this case not spiritual food. They are acting as though they are ordained to take care of this revival, to cut away the flesh, but it is they who are flesh. The false leaders always try to hijack any true revival trying to impose their unscriptural foolishness. We must do warfare against this.) My husband emphatically said, “No. That's not necessary anymore”. So they left the room with Elijah. I assumed they would take care of him. (We bind this leaven masquerading as Christianity from this repentance revival.) I then went and got in line with some other people to get a tray of food. The cafeteria workers all had disposable white hair nets. A young, tall, lanky guy and a short woman put various food items on my plate and handed me the tray. I saw that they had put shredded pork on my plate, and I said, “I'm not allowed to eat pork. My husband doesn't allow it”. (This is spiritual. Our Lord does not allow us to partake of their unclean fleshly nature, words, spirits and teachings. Like pigs, their god is their belly.) When my hand touched the tray, I had an open vision. I saw Elijah lying on the floor in pain in another room. The cafeteria workers who had posed as hospital nursery workers had circumcised him and botched the procedure in addition. They had also stuffed pork into his mouth and he was lying there half choked from it. (These apostate ministries cutting off what they call “flesh” from this revival. Their unscriptural, overindulgent lives prove they do not know what flesh is. Adding their pork as a type of their unclean demon doctrines to choke the revival.) When the vision ended, I was back over at the table where I had given birth to Elijah. I was telling my husband what they had done to him, and then the “nursery worker” came up with the dried foreskin in her hand. She had a strange necklace around her neck with many others hanging from it, and she placed Elijah's dried foreskin onto her necklace, too. It was like a bizarre trophy necklace or something. (The demons in the false revival people want to claim this revival as their own for selfish ambition.) My husband was so angry that they did this to his son. I hurried into the room where they had left him to suffer and choke to death. I quickly picked him up and performed the infant version of the Heimlich maneuver on him that I had learned in a CPR class that I took at the hospital. (They must not be cut off from the breath of the Spirit.) I took a white baby blanket and wrapped him up in it, and carried him out of that cafeteria building and walked with him on a white covered concrete walkway over to the large UBM warehouse next door. (Just as John said in (Joh.3:30) He must increase, but I must decrease. The John the Baptist revival will morph into the Man-child revival of the Unleavened Bread and signs and wonders. But for God's people to escape the judgments promised, there must be repentance. This revival must succeed.)   THE CONDITION FOR PROPHECY TO COME TO PASS OR NOT AND THE CURSE (Jer.18:1) The word which came to Jeremiah from Jehovah, saying, (2) Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words. (3) Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he was making a work on the wheels. (4) And when the vessel that he made of the clay was marred in the hand of the potter, he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it. (5) Then the word of Jehovah came to me, saying, (6) O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith Jehovah. Behold, as the clay in the potter's hand, so are ye in my hand, O house of Israel. (This pot has to be handled roughly to get the clay back in a moldable form. This remolding of the clay historically has involved judgment until the clay is repentant.) (7) At what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up and to break down and to destroy it; (8) if that nation, concerning which I have spoken, turn from their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them. (9) And at what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to build and to plant it; (10) if they do that which is evil in my sight, that they obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them. (11) Now therefore, speak to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith Jehovah: Behold, I frame evil against you, and devise a device against you: return ye now every one from his evil way, and amend your ways and your doings. (12) But they say, It is in vain; for we will walk after our own devices, and we will do every one after the stubbornness of his evil heart.   Great Holy Spirit Revival & Escape Eve Brast - 05/04/2016 (David's notes in red) I dreamed I was in the spirit, floating right above the waters of the Red Sea. (This is after the Passover that brought death to the Egyptians and freedom to God's people just before the wilderness tribulation on the other side of the sea.) I was looking toward the bank on the shore, which was dark. (The way of escape from Pharaoh's army or martial law is not clear.) I saw a small tongue of fire come down out of heaven and alight on top of the waters. (The tongue of fire is the baptism of the Holy Spirit. (Act.2:3) And there appeared unto them tongues parting asunder, like as of fire; and it sat upon each one of them. (4) And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. This individual tongue of fire is the anointed Man-child from Heaven. This is the Man-child revival that follows the John the Baptist revival. Like Moses they are to bring the people into and through the wilderness tribulation.) Suddenly, all the waters were set on fire and they parted with great force and power as if Moses himself had struck them with his staff! (Jesus in the Man-child by His Word and anointing will divide the sea and make a way of escape from Pharaoh's army and his FEMA camps, as Moses did. (Exo.14:16) And lift thou up thy rod, and stretch out thy hand over the sea, and divide it: and the children of Israel shall go into the midst of the sea on dry ground.) They became two flaming walls of fire, and between them, the tongue of fire landed on the dry seabed, and it lit up the shoreline. (The anointed Man-child made the way of escape clear when it looked impossible.) I could then see a set of 12 stone steps (representing the 12 tribes of New Testament Spiritual Israel) leading down from the top of the shoreline to the seabed. Then all these modern-day people from all the different denominations were lit up in the dark, and they began descending the steps to go across. A man who was also dressed in modern-day clothing was the first to descend and was at the head of them to go into the wilderness and on to the Promised Land. Then I woke up. (What would it take to unify all the true people of God to seek Him and spiritually leave Egypt, as a type of the world, and head toward the promises of the Promised Land? The John the Baptist repentance revival would have wised up many to the bondage of the Pharisees and Sadducees and their dead religion by then. Pharaoh had made slaves of the people of God, somewhat like our Pharaoh, and fierce judgments had fallen on the worldly at Passover. Could this be engineered economic collapse, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and martial law? The judgments on Egypt so the people can escape. I asked the Lord, “Will martial law come?” and got two heads for “yes”. I asked, “Can it be overturned by our faith?” and got two tails for “no”. And this was fulfilled for we are in it now. Pharaoh's army was about to bring them into bondage when God divided the Red Sea. At this point, they were unified by the baptism of the Holy Spirit. (1Co.10:1) For I would not, brethren, have you ignorant, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; (2) and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud [baptism of the Holy Spirit] and in the sea [water baptism].) I asked the Lord, if we went the Trump route, would the earthquakes not come and He said, “No”. In other words, the quakes are coming. They are a sign of the coming Man-child reformers.   White Glove Inspection Sandy Shaw - 2/11/18 (David's notes in red) At the beginning of this dream, I am standing in front of an extraordinarily large white house. In real life, there is no way that you would see a house this large on Earth. (At this time, there are no people who this white house can represent but the Bride. Certainly not the larger Church. But the Bride's job is to bring this purity to the Church as did Jesus' early disciples.) The steps leading up to the door were made of gold. (The steps of Gold are the most valuable steps a person could take to go through the door who is Jesus.) But the top step had an adjoining white marble floor that ran throughout the whole house. There are two pillars that start where the gold ends. There were two double doors, bright white (Lampros garment of the Bride) made of a substance that I didn't know. (This entrance represents righteous acts Rev.19:8 And it was given unto her that she should array herself in fine linen, bright [Greek: Lampros] and pure: for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints. The gold plates around the door handles had an intricate design around the edges. The handles were of round crystal. I opened the doors and in front of me is a huge room. And I strained my eyes to see how far it goes. Then I looked to the left of me, and there were hundreds of doors to the rooms and the same on the right. I'm wearing a white robe with white gloves to the elbows. (The Bride cleaning her house, representing righteous Works) I went to the first door and went to the upper right-hand corner, and then went diagonally down to the left corner. I opened the door and went into the room and closed the door. And did it again on the opposite side. Then I opened the door. And then I inspected the walls. I took my finger and by my height, I slid it across to the corner. (The white glove inspection. If dirt comes up on the finger, there is unrighteousness in the house of the Bride.) Then, from the wall, I bent down to inspect the floor. It passed inspection, so I walked to the bed, bent down, and put my hand under the bed and then I stood up. Then I looked at the bed. (Representing the rest through faith) It was made up of white satin-like fabric. I can see my handprint from kneeling down, so I took my hands and smoothed out the wrinkle that I had made. (The Bride is the first of the Church to be without spot and wrinkle.) The three white pillows were soft and very inviting. Then I walked to the nightstand and gave it the white glove test. There was a beautiful crystal vase. In it were a dozen white roses all at the perfect stage of openness. (Fruit born through water of the Word – A present from the Groom. Rev. 22:1 And he showed me a river of water of life, bright as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb, The fragrance of them was throughout the whole room. Then I looked to see the amount of water in the vase. The only color in this dream was the stems. Then I walked to the window and pushed aside the curtain. The window was so clear that you couldn't see it. (Pure of sight) Then I took my finger and went from the upper right corner to go diagonally to the left. There were two windows in the room. They were open an inch each. A slight breeze was coming in. (Breath of the Holy Spirit) Now there was a coolness that blended with the warmness, and you felt it together to make a perfect temperature. I then checked the curtains, and then I walked to the door. I turned around to look at the room for the last time. I noticed that the curtains were barely moving with a slight breeze. Then I remembered to look up at the ceiling. There was no ceiling...just a beautiful deep blue. (Heavenly perspective. Son shining in.) I did this in all the rooms on the right and on the left. In the huge room, I ran my finger over the floor while walking to the kitchen. The kitchen has a white swivel door. Everything is still white. The first thing I saw was a row of ovens. (To bake the pure unleavened Bread of the Word and Body of the Bride.) I know that there are forty ovens. I walk over to give them the test. Then from there I went to the four vintage farmhouse sinks, and they passed inspection. Then I went to the four huge refrigerators, and I opened them. There was no food in them. (To be pure and white, you must have eaten the food of the bread and wine of the life of Jesus.) Inside was only a rectangular glass container that held water with a silver spigot. (Silver kills contaminants in Water. The Water of the Word must be clean of leaven.) All four refrigerators were the same. Then I did the floor test again. There was a door on the right side of the kitchen that went into a very small hall. This led into a big room. At the other end of the room was a huge chair that looked like it was made for a giant. A man was sitting in it with pure white hair and garment. (Rev.1:13 and in the midst of the candlesticks one like unto a son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about at the breasts with a golden girdle. 14 And his head and his hair were white as white wool, white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire.) I walked slowly and said very softly, “Sir,” and he said, “Yes.” The inspection is done.” And he said, “OK.” Then I woke up. My feeling was one of total relief and acceptance from Him, and He was pleased. I received by faith at random this text for this dream: Finger was on vs 26, “he made.” Acts 17:24 The God that made the world and all things therein, he, being Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; 25 neither is he served by men's hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he himself giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; 26 and he made of one every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed seasons, and the bounds of their habitation; 27 that they should seek God, if haply they might feel after him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us: 28 for in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain even of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. 29 Being then the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and device of man. 30 The times of ignorance therefore God overlooked; but now he commandeth men that they should all everywhere repent:   Worldwide Holy Spirit Outpouring  Samuel Paguaga - 09/21/2010 (David's notes in red) I think this dream tops all my spiritual dreams in its intensity and revelation. In it, I was in a small gathering of sorts. We were talking and then praying. A bit more had happened before that, but I think the point of this event is that none of what had happened before this mattered. All of a sudden, it was like when you step out of your home straight into the sun at noon. I was overwhelmed with light/energy, not as much as to blind the eyes, but more of a light/energy that penetrated to every cell and fiber of my body. I felt I was no longer physical or fleshly but a new being. As I looked straight forward in front of me, the physical world began to fade, but not because it was disappearing; it was because I began to perceive it in a new way, with new senses, and everything became almost transparent. I looked up and began to speak words in a new language. I was confessing something. Although I could not understand the words, I could feel them in my being. The words were energizing and vibrating my being, my frequency, my entity, my spirit. It was as if all of me became one: my spirit with my mind and my body. As I began to speak, my perception of my surroundings grew. I could feel, perceive, and see all those around me who were experiencing the same thing. First, the two people beside me; then, outwardly, the people in the place; then the whole block; then the city, and then the whole Earth. We, disciples of Christ, were all one and not because we perceived each other, but because we were confessing the same words and because the same flow of energy and power of the Holy Spirit was flowing through us. Although there was a worldwide outpouring, only the vessels of glory, the vessels of light, were filled to the seal. (This could be the first-fruits outpouring at the beginning of the tribulation.) I could feel the power and energy flowing through me, vibrating every part of my being. I spoke words and feelings became more and more intense, so much so that I could not even begin to describe them. I saw everything as white, yellowish, and orange lights, as if everything was transparent. I felt one with the source, at one with the words, and as one with everyone confessing these words. All these feelings of oneness occurred at three distinct levels. All of this along with a feeling of peace; it was as if this was a new nature, and I knew what it was. I experienced the whole thing even when I awoke. It seemed like I knew what was happening. I knew what the source was, what the energy and power was, and the meaning of the words. I woke up shortly afterward, possibly on the last word spoken, although in the dream it seemed like from that point on things would not be the same. As I awoke, I could almost feel the vibration of energy in my being as it dispersed into the normality of my awakened state. I always wondered, what does it mean to be one with God and His Christ and His Spirit ... and now I know. 

FBC Missions Document: Why: Missions is the church's God-glorifying, Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered task of making disciples and planting churches among all the peoples of the earth. Psalm 67:1-7 God be merciful to us and bless us, And cause His face to shine upon us, Selah. 2 That Your way may be known on earth, Your salvation among all nations. 3 Let the peoples praise You, O God; Let all the peoples praise You. 4 Oh, let the nations be glad and sing for joy! For You shall judge the people righteously, And govern the nations on earth. 5 Let the peoples praise You, O God; Let all the peoples praise You. 6 Then the earth shall yield her increase; God, our own God, shall bless us. 7 God shall bless us, And all the ends of the earth shall fear Him. Revelation 5:9 9 And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll, And to open its seals; For You were slain, And have redeemed us to God by Your blood Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, 10 And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth.” 11 Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne, the living creatures, and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands, 12 saying with a loud voice: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain To receive power and riches and wisdom, And strength and honor and glory and blessing!” John Piper: Missions is not the ultimate goal of the church. Worship is. Missions exists because worship doesn't. Worship is ultimate, not missions, because God is ultimate, not man. When this age is over and the countless millions of the redeemed fall on their faces before the throne of God, missions will be no more. It is a temporary necessity. But worship abides forever. Worship, therefore, is the fuel and goal of missions. It's the goal of missions because in missions we simply aim to bring the nations into the white hot enjoyment of God's glory. How: Missions at FBC is accomplished through sharing the gospel, supporting disciple-making, supplicating in prayer, supplying needs, and sending commissioned pastors and missionaries. Sharing the gospel. 2 Cor. 5:19-21 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Mt. 28:18-20 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Supporting Disciple-Making. Acts 15:36 36 And after some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” Acts 14:21-22 21 When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, 22 strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God I Thes. 3:1-10 Therefore when we could bear it no longer, we were willing to be left behind at Athens alone, 2 and we sent Timothy, our brother and God's coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith,… 5 For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain. 6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you— 7 for this reason, brothers, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith. 8 For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord. 9 For what thanksgiving can we return to God for you, for all the joy that we feel for your sake before our God, 10 as we pray most earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith? Acts 28:11-15 11 After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island. 12 And landing at Syracuse, we stayed three days. 13 From there we circled round and reached Rhegium. And after one day the south wind blew; and the next day we came to Puteoli, 14 where we found brethren, and were invited to stay with them seven days. And so we went toward Rome. 15 And from there, when the brethren heard about us, they came to meet us as far as Appii Forum and Three Inns. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage. 2 Tim. 1:15-18 15 This you know, that all those in Asia have turned away from me, among whom are Phygellus and Hermogenes. 16 The Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain; 17 but when he arrived in Rome, he sought me out very zealously and found me. 18 The Lord grant to him that he may find mercy from the Lord in that Day—and you know very well how many ways he ministered to me at Ephesus. Supplicating in Prayer. Luke 11:2 2 So He said to them, “When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Eph. 6:18-20 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak. Supplying Resources. 2 Cor. 9:5-10 10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. 12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. 13 By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, 14 while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. 3 John v. 5 5 Beloved, it is a faithful thing you do in all your efforts for these brothers, strangers as they are, 6 who testified to your love before the church. You will do well to send them on their journey in a manner worthy of God. 7 For they have gone out for the sake of the name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles. 8 Therefore we ought to support people like these, that we may be fellow workers for the truth. Phil. 4:14 14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. 18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. Sending Commissioned Pastors and Missionaries. Rom. 15: 19-21 so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ; 20 and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation, 21 but as it is written, “Those who have never been told of him will see, and those who have never heard will understand.” Acts 13:1-3 Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.

Luke 1:5–25 - [5] In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah. And he had a wife from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. [6] And they were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord. [7] But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years. [8] Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, [9] according to the custom of the priesthood, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. [10] And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. [11] And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. [12] And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. [13] But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. [14] And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, [15] for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. [16] And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God, [17] and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.” [18] And Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” [19] And the angel answered him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. [20] And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” [21] And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they were wondering at his delay in the temple. [22] And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute. [23] And when his time of service was ended, he went to his home. [24] After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she kept herself hidden, saying, [25] “Thus the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.” (ESV)   THE EVENING MINDSET IS COMING! Beginning January 1 - 2026 - A new DAILY podcast will be available to help you wind down, reset your mind on God’s truth, and prepare for a night of rest and rejuvenation. “The Daily Mindset” will launch on the podcast player of your choice on January 1, 2026. Subscribe now so you don’t miss an episode: https://EveningMindset.com

“If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.” (Jeremiah 29:13 NLT) If the Christmas story—the well-known narratives of Matthew 2 and Luke 2—is so familiar to you that you can practically recite it from memory, try considering it from a different perspective. Try thinking of it as the successful end to a long search. The arrival of the wise men in Jerusalem likely created quite a stir. These were strange men with a strange question, asking for the King of the Jews. As wise as they were, they were also a little naïve, politically speaking. They didn’t realize that they were triggering an extremely volatile man. In effect, they were saying to King Herod, “We’re looking for the King of the Jews—and clearly you’re not him.” This is why we’re told in Matthew 2:3, “King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem” (NLT). The word disturbed used here could be translated “to shake violently”—like a washing machine in the spin phase. That was Herod. And when Herod was agitated, everyone was agitated. When he was mad, everyone was afraid of what would happen next. So, Herod called in the leading priests and teachers of religious law, men who had committed themselves to studying Scripture. Without missing a beat, they went right to Micah 5:2: “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, are only a small village among all the people of Judah.Yet a ruler of Israel, whose origins are in the distant past, will come from you on my behalf” (NLT). These scholars had steeped themselves in the writings of the prophets. They understood how to interpret the words of Micah. They knew that the Messiah, when He came, would be born in Bethlehem. But that information was academic to them. It hadn’t penetrated their hearts and souls to the point that they could recognize the signs of the Messiah’s arrival. So, they weren’t searching for the Savior. God, in His infinite and mysterious wisdom, used wise men from eastern lands to announce the arrival of Jesus the King of the Jews to Herod the king of the Jews and his Jewish experts. The wise men were pagans who were steeped in the occult. Yet God reached them in a way that they understood. He came to them by a star. The end of their search, as recorded in Matthew 2:9–12, has implications for everyone who seeks answers or meaning or purpose or assurance or direction or anything else. The Lord says that those who seek Him will find Him. “Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened” (Matthew 7:7–8 NLT). He doesn’t offer details because the discovery process is different for everyone. To educated men and women, He will come in a way they can understand. And to little children, He will appear in a way they can understand. I believe that if people are truly seeking God, He will reveal Himself to them. Reflection question: How can you help people find the Lord? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This powerful Advent message challenges us to confront a question that reverberates through Luke's Gospel and into our own hearts: Who is on the throne? We journey through Luke chapter 1, where the stage is deliberately set with earthly kings—Herod ruling Judea, Caesar Augustus commanding the Roman world—only to have the angel Gabriel announce that a child will be given the throne of David, establishing a kingdom without end. This isn't just ancient prophecy; it's the fulfillment of God's promise to David from 2 Samuel, a covenant that seemed dead for a thousand years but was about to spring to life. Mary's Magnificat gives us the uncomfortable truth: for Jesus to be enthroned, the mighty must be brought down from their thrones. This applies not just to political powers but to our personal kingdoms. We cannot have Jesus as Savior without surrendering to Him as Lord. The gospel asks us pointedly: Are we like Herod, desperately clinging to control, or like Mary, who said, 'My soul magnifies the Lord'? When we magnify Jesus, He becomes greater and we become less—and paradoxically, this is where we find true freedom and exaltation. The King is coming, and He will be given the throne one way or another. The only question is whether we will surrender ours willingly.

Welcome to the Christmas series! Herod, boiling in a jealous rage, commits the same act as Pharaoh did long ago. In a chaotic and fiery frenzy, children are taken from their homes and killed, all because of the pride of one man. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government of Israel has been criticized for building fences in Gaza and the West Bank, but now it's geofencing American churches. Will its plan reverse the decline of evangelical support for the Jewish state? Donald Trump says he's making the country more Christian, but data shows his immigration policy favors secular immigrants and rejects Christians. Rich Villodas is back to talk about his new book for Advent, "Waiting for Jesus." He says we should use this season to resist consumerism, commercialism, and Christian culturalism. Also this week, a giant flightless parrot has issues Down Under. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/144923335/   Advice-ish: https://www.patreon.com/posts/advice-ish-im-in-144823944   66 Verses to Explain the Bible:  https://www.patreon.com/posts/144916622/   0:00 - Show Starts   4:43- Theme Song   5:06 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month!   6:05 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Get the AG1 welcome pack when you order from https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   7:35 - Toucan Butt Disease!   14:35 - Israel Geofencing Ads Around Churches   29:00 - Deportations Making America More Secular?   48:42 - Sponsor - World Relief - Start a monthly partnership with World Relief to help families in crisis at https://www.worldrelief.org/holypost   49:51 - Sponsor - Aura Frames - Need a Great Christmas Gift? Use code HOLYPOST at checkout to save $45-off the Carver Mat Aura Frame at https://www.AuraFrames.com   51:00 - Sponsor - Blueland - Just for this holiday season, Blueland has a special 30% off deal to help you keep your home clean this Christmas! Go to https://www.blueland.com/holypost   52:10 - Interview   54:06 - Church Calendar Explained   1:03:50 - Spirit of Herod   1:17:37 - End Credits   1:18:09 - Sponsor - The Pour Over - Stay informed while remaining focused on Christ with The Pour Over Today. Check it out at https://links.thepourover.org/holy-post   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Kakapo Crusty Butt Disease! https://www.popsci.com/environment/kakapo-antibiotics-crusty-bum/   Immigration Crackdown Making Us Less Christian? https://religionnews.com/2025/11/18/why-trumps-immigration-crackdown-may-make-america-less-christian/?utm_source=RNS+Updates&utm_campaign=506d68c8ac-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_11_19_01_03&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_c5356cb657-506d68c8ac-387424458   Other Resources: Waiting for Jesus: An Advent Invitation to Prayer and Renewal: An Advent Christmas Devotional by Rich Villodas: https://amzn.to/3Me8e8v   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

Well, we kicked off our Advent Against Empire series with Diana Butler Bass diving deep into Matthew's birth narrative, and wow—it did not disappoint. Diana brought her three signature lenses (anti-imperialism, non-violence, and eco-wholeness) to the most Jewish of all the gospels, and things got delightfully nerdy. We explored how Matthew's genealogy isn't just a boring list of "begats"—it's a subversive royal document packed with scandalous women and outsiders that announces Jesus as the true king in direct confrontation with Rome and Herod. Diana walked us through a brilliant two-act structure: Act One is all about the birth of Wisdom and Joseph (a dreamer who winds up in Egypt—sound familiar?) receiving divine announcements. Act Two gives us the Apocalyptic clash between the World as it is and the World to come, with the Magi's cosmic rebellion against Herod, the horrific violence that follows when the empire doesn't get its way, and the holy family's return. We also geeked out on Jesus as the embodiment of Sophia—Wisdom incarnate—and how Matthew's five-discourse structure mirrors the Torah itself. If you've always thought of Matthew as the "Christmas pageant gospel," prepare to have your assumptions lovingly dismantled. Want to go deeper? Join Diana and me for our full four-week Advent journey, The Beginning of Another World: Advent Against Empire. Each week we're letting a different gospel speak its revolutionary word—no harmonizing, no smoothing over the rough edges. The class is fully asynchronous so that you can participate on your own schedule or join us live for our recordings. Sign up HERE and contribute whatever you can (including 0). Come get nerdy with us! You can WATCH the conversation on YouTube here Diana Butler Bass, Ph.D., is an award-winning author, popular speaker, inspiring preacher, and one of America's most trusted commentators on religion and contemporary spirituality. Previous Episodes with Diana & Tripp How the Lectionary Kept Me Christian: Diana Butler Bass on Practicing the Year Two Books, One Night: Finding Beauty in What We Can't Control Religious Liberty & Violence – Unpacking the First 100 Days of Trump 2.0 The Interlocking Crises of Religion & Democracy Faith in a Toxic Public Square The Resurrection of Jesus 2024: The Sequel The Christology Ladder ONLINE ADVENT CLASS w/ Diana Butler Bass⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join us for a transformative four-week Advent journey exploring how the four gospels speak their own revolutionary word against empire—both in their ancient context under Roman occupation and for our contemporary world shaped by capitalism, militarism, and nationalism.  This course invites you into an alternative calendar and rhythm. We'll discover how these ancient texts of resistance offer wisdom for our own moment of political turmoil, economic inequality, and ecological crisis. This class is donation-based, including 0. You can sign-up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.HomebrewedClasses.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This podcast is a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Homebrewed Christianity ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠production. Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠the Homebrewed Christianity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Theology Nerd Throwdown⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Rise of Bonhoeffer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcasts for more theological goodness for your earbuds. Join over 75,000 other people by joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack - Process This!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get instant access to over 50 classes at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.TheologyClass.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow the podcast, drop a review⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, send ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠feedback/questions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or become a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠member of the HBC Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesus was born into a particular place and time. A full human existing with a full human experience. A commonly overlooked piece of his humanity is the empire he was surrounded by. Jesus was born into “the time of King Herod.” This is not just a statement of fact from Matthew. This short sentence paints an entire picture of the powers of his time and how they impacted not just Jesus, but his family, his community, and his worldview.

In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah. And he had a wife from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years. (Luke 1:5-7)

Welcome to the Christmas series! The magi arrive at the palace of King Herod, looking for the King of the Jews. Herod welcomes them with false-humility, smiling through his gritted teeth. Something isn't right. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textIn this episode of The Way of Valor, Angie Taylor sits down with Dr. Ward Sanford biblical historian, longtime scientist, and author of the historical novel series Cry for Jerusalem. With today's global focus on Israel and the Middle East, Dr. Sanford offers a timely and captivating look at the real first-century history that shaped Christianity, the Roman world, and the fall of Jerusalem.Drawing from decades of scientific research, deep historical study, and extensive work with the writings of Josephus, Dr. Sanford reveals:Why historical fiction can help us understand both history and faith more deeplyThe surprising real events that led to the Jewish revolt and the destruction of the TempleThe distinctions between Israel as a land, Judaism as a faith, and the Jewish people as a heritageHow early Christians, Jews, and Romans interacted in ways that bring the New Testament world to lifeWhat critics of the New Testament often get wrong and what the historical record actually showsHow his series intertwines real historical figures, fictional companions, and dramatic events to make history accessible for teens and adults alikeDr. Sanford also shares how his research strengthened his personal faith and gives a glimpse into his current work exploring the layout of Herod's Temple and the archaeology behind it.If you love history, biblical context, or stories that illuminate faith in fresh ways, this episode will draw you in and leave you wanting to learn more.Check out Dr. Ward Sanford's book series: cryforjerusalem.com/Connect with Angie Taylor on:IG: https://www.instagram.com/mrsangietaylor/?hl=enFB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090424997350

What Do You Fear? In the Time of Herod 11-30-25 by LifePath Church

Send us a textToday we're celebrating a very special return guest: author, speaker, and independent scholar Diana Butler Bass. If you've been with us before, you'll remember our deep dive into her beautiful book Freeing Jesus. Today, Diana is back with a brand-new offering: A Beautiful Year: 52 Meditations on Faith, Wisdom, and Perseverance—a book designed to guide us through the seasons, the stories, and the spiritual rhythms that shape a life.You've heard Diana's Substack series, When? When? When? – Longing for the End of Empire. It resonated with me deeply—especially as I write in my own Substack, “When is this going to END?” It echoes Jesus' ancient warning that even the most imposing empires—Herod's Temple, Rome's occupation—will crumble. Empires end, but the Kingdom of God endures. That tension—our longing for an end, and our anticipation of a new beginning—brings us right into Advent.At seventy-seven, I've lived through a decade of Trump-era headlines that have stretched and wrinkled my sense of time. Diana helps us see that time is not just linear—it's circular, liturgical, meaningful. Not the calendar I grew up with in my evangelical days, but one filled with story, metaphor, archetype, and hope. Advent reminds us: we wait for peace, for justice, for love. And when the signs appear, Jesus says, the time is near.So join us. Diana's spiritual kaleidoscope opens a winding, wonder-filled journey through darkness toward light. This conversation will move you—heart, mind, and spirit.SHOW NOTESSupport the showBecome a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you! Ken's Substack Page The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

This week's Westlake UMC sermon podcast shares Pastor LyAnna Johnson's message from November 30, titled In the Time of Herod We Long for God to Break In, reflecting on Luke 1:5–13 and Lamentations 3:55–57.

In this first week of Advent, we explore how the arrival of Jesus invites real and often uncomfortable change. Through the story of Herod, the wise men, and the themes of Advent Conspiracy, we are reminded that worship is more than songs or rituals. It is the offering of our whole lives. Like the baby in “The Luck of Roaring Camp,” the birth of Jesus disrupts our patterns and reshapes our priorities. This sermon invites us to embrace a season of transformation and worship fully.  

In this message, Minister Mark Ashton explores the powerful story of the Star of Bethlehem in Matthew 2:1–12, showing how God uses light, signs, and Scripture to guide people toward Jesus. This Christmas season, Mark unpacks why the star appeared, what the Magi understood, how Herod resisted God's revelation, and how the same God still speaks to us today in ways we can understand.This sermon launches our Christmas series “Lights of Christmas: Witness the Wonder”—a journey through the characters, signs, and moments that prepared the world for the arrival of Jesus. Together we look at how God leads step by step, how He uses creation, circumstances, people, His Word, and His Spirit to draw us near, and how the star points us to the true Light of the World.If you're longing for direction, clarity, peace, or renewed faith, this message will help you open your heart, look up, and follow God's leading just like the Magi. Whether you're exploring faith or growing deeper as a disciple, this teaching invites you to pause, pray, and ask: How is God speaking to you today?

Luke 1:5-25 English Standard VersionBirth of John the Baptist Foretold5 In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah. And he had a wife from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord. 7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.8 Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, 9 according to the custom of the priesthood, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense.10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. 11 And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him.13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. 14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother's womb.16 And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God, 17 and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.”18 And Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” 19 And the angel answered him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. 20 And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” 21 And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they were wondering at his delay in the temple.22 And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute. 23 And when his time of service was ended, he went to his home.24 After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she kept herself hidden, saying, 25 “Thus the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”English Standard Version (ESV)The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.ESV Text Edition: 2025. 

Jesus has been divisive from the beginning. In this sermon, we look at Herod's reaction to the birth of Christ, then contrast that with how the magi responded. Do you see yourself in these men? Are you willing to submit to Jesus as King, or will you maintain your own kingdom?

When Zechariah encounters an angel of the Lord, the angel tells him not to be afraid because his prayers have been heard. As an elderly priest, Zechariah had witnessed the fall of Judean independence and the start of Roman occupation. To be sure, Herod, who ruled at the behest of Rome, brought many things to fear. Despite his fears, Zechariah longed for the coming Messiah and a son. Similarly, we find ourselves in a time when many are afraid about the present, but what we see in this story is that God is present even in our fear, and even in our moments of silence, we can still insist on hope for the future. www.TheLoftLA.org

Luke 1:5-13, Lamentations 3:55-57 (NRSV) “In the time of Herod …” places Jesus' birth in a world shaped by political unrest, societal uncertainty, violence and fear. In this context, Luke introduces us to Elizabeth and Zechariah – an aging childless, priestly couple whose life is centered on a deep longing and faithful waiting. This intense longing and waiting creates a particular kind of fear. Although it invokes an “inner shaking, a disruption of body and spirit,” it is not a failure.

Proverbs 14:24 says: “the crown of the wise is their wealth”. Our working definition of a crown in this sense is: ‘an adorning confirmation of dignity, rank, ability, and reputation'. This conceptual understanding of royal authority helps to clarify the context of our text in this chapter. Solomon's teaching is universal in this sense. Would you sacrifice your better judgment, integrity, or reputation for riches…? Those who do so wear a fool's crown. Mortgaging virtue in the quest for fortune, power, or position will crown you with folly. A parallel text might be: Prov 22:1 “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.” Consider the example of Solomon at the height of his powers and splendor visited regularly by royal entourages of surrounding nations. His crown at this time was resplendent, polished by wisdom. As an example of folly's crown remember the demise of king Herod eaten by worms in Acts 12:20-24. This passage also draws a stark contrast as verse 24 goes on to say: … “But the word of God increased and multiplied.”

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Sermon Date: November 30, 2025Sermon on Scripture readings: Luke 1:5–13Support the show

“We love because He first loved us.” — 1 John 4:19Those six simple words form the foundation of all Christian generosity. Every act of love, every gift we offer, every step of obedience begins with what God has already given to us. We don't start by giving—we start by receiving.In this spirit, Sharon Epps, President of Kingdom Advisors, joined us for a meaningful conversation on the often-overlooked generosity of the women who financially supported Jesus. Their story, found in Luke 8, gives us a powerful picture of what grateful, gospel-shaped giving looks like.Women Who Supported JesusLuke 8 opens with a glimpse into Jesus' ministry on the move:“Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the Good News of the Kingdom of God… and also some women… Mary called Magdalene… Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.”  — Luke 8:1–3These women formed part of Jesus' traveling ministry team, and Scripture highlights an astonishing truth: they provided for Jesus and His disciples out of their own resources.Among them was Joanna, a woman of high social standing and significant wealth. As the wife of King Herod's household manager, she lived with privilege—but Scripture also tells us she was once spiritually and physically broken. Jesus healed her, and her generosity flowed from that transformation.Receiving Always Comes Before GivingBefore Joanna gave to Jesus, she received from Jesus.Sharon points out that Luke intentionally includes this detail: these women had been healed—spiritually, emotionally, or physically—before they supported Jesus' ministry. It reminds us that money alone can't solve the deepest problems of the heart. We all begin our stewardship journey by receiving.At the most basic level, every good thing in our lives is a gift from God:The breath in our lungsThe abilities we developThe resources we holdThe love we experienceAs Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 4:7, “What do you have that you did not receive?” The answer is nothing.Giving, then, is designed to be a response—a natural overflow of gratitude.Joanna's Love for JesusJoanna's story doesn't end in Luke 8. We meet her again in Luke 24 at the empty tomb, heartbroken and confused, until the angels remind her of Jesus' words. Joanna becomes one of the first witnesses of the resurrection, running with Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of James, to tell the apostles.Her pattern is clear: She received from Jesus. She loved Jesus. And she gave to honor Jesus. Her generosity was not transactional—it was relational. It was the fruit of a transformed life.Generosity as a JourneySharon suggests that generosity is never a one-time event—it's a journey. As our relationship with Christ deepens, our giving naturally grows. Joanna shows us what sacrificial generosity looks like when it springs from grateful love.To make this practical, Sharon shared three questions she's been asking herself—questions all of us can ask:1. What do I need to recognize as a gift from Christ before I can give generously?Do I see what's in my hands as mine—or as His?2. Is my giving safe or sacrificial?Does my generosity reflect comfort… or love?3. What does my current giving say about how well I've received?Giving reveals the condition of the heart.These questions invite us into deeper intimacy with Jesus, because generous living always begins with grateful receiving.Becoming Conduits of Christ's LoveJoanna's life encourages us to see generosity not as a duty but as a joyful response to God's grace. As Sharon put it, her prayer—and ours—is to “receive so well that we become conduits of Christ's love through generosity.”May we, like these remarkable women, offer our resources, time, and lives with open hands—recognizing that every gift we give begins with the gift we've already received in Christ.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm considering taking 72(t) withdrawals from my 401(k) in a couple of years as I retire and begin consulting. Should I plan on withdrawing around 5% annually, and if so, should I keep the money invested in stocks to aim for the usual 9–11% returns?My husband and I need about $8,000 and are debating whether to pull it from my 403(b), use benefits from his part-time retirement job, or tap a small annuity worth $3,000–$4,000. We want to pay off some credit cards and finish a car loan with three months left. What's the best source to use?We inherited enough money to either pay off our mortgage or cover about three-quarters of our daughter's student loan. The amounts are similar, and our mortgage is mostly principal now. I'm 61. Which payoff makes the most sense?I started my Social Security retirement benefits at age 70 this June. My younger husband reaches full retirement age next July. Can he take a spousal benefit equal to half of mine until he reaches FRA and then switch to his own higher benefit?I'm getting remarried, but my fiancée would lose nearly $1,500 in Social Security benefits she currently receives. Is there any way to avoid losing that benefit once we marry?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

At Christmastime, we often hear mention of an ancient political figure named Herod the Great. But who was Herod? Is he the same “Herod” who later took part in the arrest and crucifixion of Jesus? Get answers from Pastor Mike Fabarez on this helpful and historical edition of Ask Pastor Mike.

Get The Gift of Christ Advent Calendar DevotionalTwo men saw Jesus face-to-face, but only one walked away fulfilled. Why? And what does that reveal about your hope this Advent? In this episode, you'll discover the hidden difference between Simeon and Herod and how their responses to Jesus expose the real reason your hope sometimes feels heavy, disappointing, or spiritually dry. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, longing for closeness with God, or trying to reclaim the Hope of Advent, this episode will help you shift from self-centered desire to God-centered trust, so you can experience the fulfillment your heart craves this Christmas season.Scriptures ReferencedLuke 2:25 -35Luke 23:6-12Want to savor more goodness in your busy life? You're in the right place!Connect with like-minded women: If you're ready to find balance and peace, come together with women who understand the beauty of living a multifaceted life. ⁠⁠Join the community!⁠⁠Step into a calmer holiday rhythm: The Calm Christmas Workshop gives you space to pause, reflect, and shape the kind of Christmas you actually want to experience; Christ-centered, joy-filled, and free of overwhelm. ⁠⁠Enter the workshop today!Deepen your relationship with Christ before Christmas day: Get The Gift of Christ Advent Calendar Devotional and study the Gospel of Luke.Walk through the holiday season getting to know Christ the Man and wake up Christmas morning feeling peaceful and prepared. Get the devotional here!Let's Connect:Email: ⁠hello@p31virtues.com⁠Note: The show notes may contain affiliate links. If you click on one and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work!

In this final episode of the Also Featured In The Cast series, I reflect on those whose names you may not know but whose roles were essential—both in history and in the story of Jesus. From Mary Magdalene and Joseph of Arimathea to the humble parents of Christ, we explore the lives of those who shaped history and faith in quiet yet profound ways. We also examine the deadly combination of political, military, and religious power in the crucifixion of Jesus, and the stark contrast of those who faithfully cared for Him. At the heart of it, Jesus knows each of us by name, no matter how overlooked or forgotten the world may be.– Dr. Mark Rutland Chapters (00:00:03) - The Leaders Notebook(00:00:25) - The Life of Hattie McDaniel(00:03:26) - John 4:1-2(00:06:13) - The Life of Herod and Pilate(00:15:24) - Political, Military and Religious Power in the Crucification of Jesus(00:22:22) - The Power of Religious Power(00:31:47) - Also mentioned in the Christ Story(00:34:44) - What Kills People in Crucifixion(00:41:24) - Leader's Notebook

Most of us learned the Lord's Prayer before we understood what it was doing. It became a ritual, something recited rather than lived.  But when Jesus' words are returned to their original world - the Jewish people under Roman rule, the long ache for redemption, the hope of a coming kingdom - the prayer opens up in ways most modern readers have never seen. It becomes less a mantra and more a mission. In this conversation with Brad Gray and Brad Nelson of Walking the Text, we explore why context is not a luxury but a lifeline.  Jesus wasn't offering a poetic devotional. He was giving His disciples a framework for partnering with God, joining the story that began in the Exodus, and learning to embody the kingdom He announced.  Every line reaches back to Israel's history and forward to God's future, shaping a people who would carry His reign into the world. From the clash of kingdoms under Rome, to the Jewish practice of communal prayer, to the way the early disciples finally recognized the kingdom at Shavuot, this episode invites us to see the prayer not as ancient words but as a daily blueprint.  This is what it means to bring heaven here - to live as a people formed by the Father, trusting His provision, forgiving like He forgives, and resisting the powers that distort His world. Key Takeaways Context is not extra; it's everything. Jesus assumed His listeners knew the Jewish, historical, and literary world behind His words. The Lord's Prayer sits at the “center of the center” of the Sermon on the Mount - Matthew's way of spotlighting Jesus' mission. Every phrase echoes the Exodus story and frames Jesus as the new Moses leading a new Exodus. “Daily bread” held layers: Israel's wilderness manna, Rome's grain system, and the hope of Messiah's provision. Ancient Jewish prayer was communal, formational, and participatory - not merely expressive. Jesus' kingdom message is not about escaping earth but joining God's work of renewing it. Salvation isn't the finish line; it's the starting point for disciples who bring God's reign into the world. Chapter Markers  00:00 — Why Context Changes Everything  01:20 — What the Biblical Writers Assumed We Knew  04:20 — Discovering the Bible in “Technicolor”  06:15 — When the Lord's Prayer Becomes Personal  09:00 — The Prayer's Literary Center and the New Exodus  10:20 — Rome, Herod, and the Clash of Kingdoms  14:45 — Why the Disciples Needed to Be Taught to Pray  18:40 — What Jesus Is Really Forming Through This Prayer  21:00 — Kingdom, Salvation, and the Mission of Disciples  26:30 — The Phrase That Transformed Everything  29:00 — Why “For Thine Is the Kingdom…” Isn't Original  31:50 — The Film, the Book, and the Global Project  38:00 — The Vision Behind Bringing Heaven Here Explore more resources, teachings, and Israel study opportunities at https://thejewishroad.com. To connect with Brad Gray and Brad Nelson, and to find the film The Lord's Prayer and the book Bringing Heaven Here, visit https://thelordsprayer.com - your one-stop hub for the film, book, and upcoming series.