Podcasts about Herod

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

Luke 3:1-6 ESV  1 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, 2 during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3 And he went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall become straight, and the rough places shall become level ways, 6 and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.'”

While Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar. (Luke 1:11 NLT) The people of Israel hadn't heard from God for four hundred years. There had been no miracles, no angelic appearances, and no prophets. And as Luke's Gospel opens, we find Israel in the midst of a long night of spiritual darkness. But that was about to change. One day God sent the angel Gabriel to a priest named Zechariah. Interestingly, the last we read of an angelic appearance in the Old Testament is when an angel appeared to a prophet named Zechariah five centuries earlier. Luke 1 tells us, “While Zechariah was in the sanctuary, an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the incense altar. Zechariah was shaken and overwhelmed with fear when he saw him. But the angel said, ‘Don't be afraid, Zechariah! God has heard your prayer. Your wife, Elizabeth, will give you a son, and you are to name him John'” (verses 11–13 NLT). Interestingly, the name Zechariah means “Jehovah has remembered.” And the name of Zechariah's wife, Elizabeth, means “God is my oath.” This event in their lives would confirm the truth of both their names. God remembered. And God would keep His oath. So, why did God set Zechariah apart for such an amazing task? He was a humble man. And if you want to be used by God, you need to know that He is looking for humble people. In contrast to the powerful and prideful Herod, whom God ultimately would cut down, Zechariah was a humble servant of God. As James 4:6 points out, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (NLT). But what does it mean to be humble? Humility is simply seeing yourself as you really are. In fact, it's our obsession with ourselves that is at the root of so many of our problems. In his book Mere Christianity, C. S. Lewis summed it up this way: “The real test of being in the presence of God is, that you either forget about yourself altogether or see yourself as a small, dirty object.” That was Zechariah. He was a country priest. Today we might call him a country preacher. At this time in Israel's history, there were about eight thousand priests. They represented God to people and people to God. The priests interpreted Scripture. They counseled. They provided wise judgment for the people. And twice a year, each priest would leave his local duties to serve in Jerusalem. In the same way, we are God's representatives as followers of Jesus Christ. First Peter 2:9 tells us, “You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light” (NLT). God does extraordinary things through ordinary people. We can be used of God wherever we are. God wants to invade our ordinary lives and do something amazing. Will you say, “Not me. I'm out”? Or, will you say, “Here I am, Lord. Send me”? — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is there a good reason why Jesus was not born in Caesar's mansion or Herod's court? He was born in the humblest of towns in the dirtiest of places. In today's devotional, Dr. Michael Youssef looks at God's careful work in the world to draw you to Himself.This devotional is adapted from MY Journal, Leading The Way's monthly devotional magazine. Sign up now for a free six-month subscription to MY Journal—Dr. Youssef's gift to you.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael Youssef's sermon, Let's Go to Bethlehem: LISTEN NOW | WATCH NOWAVAILABLE NOWAs you celebrate Christ's first coming at Christmas, infuse your traditions with new ways to remember His promise of redemption—and prepare for His ultimate return.In Preparing for the King, a vibrant 20-page Advent booklet featuring a special 4-part devotional, Dr. Michael Youssef emphasizes God's faithfulness to send a Savior and the striking Scriptural comparisons between Christ's first and second coming. Reflect on eye-opening Scriptures that point to Jesus as the one and only Savior foreshadowed for thousands of years—and be encouraged to prepare for the King at Christmas and in your everyday life.

Every year, Christians around the world sing the ancient words from “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” which continues, “…and ransom captive Israel that mourns in lonely exile here, until the Son of God appear.”  So what did exile mean in the Biblical story, and what does it mean for our hope this season? What did it mean for the birth of Jesus that his homeland was under foreign occupation under the Roman Empire, or that he and his family had to flee to Egypt in a sort of exile as refugees escaping Herod?  And how do we see all of our lives as Christians lived as “resident aliens” or “exiles” awaiting the new creation when God makes all things new?  These are the questions we'll be exploring each week with colleagues in ministry Erica, Sarah, Natalie, and Steve this December on Crazy Faith Talk—listen in this Advent!

As we begin the Advent season, Nathan Cook takes us into the heart of the Gospel of Luke, exploring the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth. Despite their righteousness, they face childlessness in a society where that was seen as a curse. In the midst of Herod's oppressive rule, Zechariah's faithful prayer in the temple sets the stage for a divine revelation—an angel's announcement that Elizabeth will bear a son, John the Baptist, preparing the way for the Messiah.But what does this story teach us about our own preparation for Christ's coming? Drawing a powerful parallel between this moment and historical events like the moon landing, Cook challenges us to prepare our hearts for the miraculous, emphasizing the power of prayer as the bridge to encounter God. Through the lens of Zechariah's doubt and Elizabeth's faith, listeners are invited to reflect on how faith can transform both personal and communal lives.Listen now to explore how prayer, faith, and a readiness to trust in God's promises can deepen our Advent journey and prepare us for the miraculous work God is doing in our lives and our world.

This Advent season, we'll be reflecting on the lives of the characters from the first Christmas, looking at how their encounters with God's presence can inspire and challenge how we approach Him today. This Sunday, Alisha took us into the story of Herod—a man whose encounter with God felt more like a threat than an invitation. It's a question we all have to face: when God disrupts our lives, will we resist, or will we recognize the invitation hidden in the interruption?

Can certain failures possess a nobility that surpasses success? Join us as we journey into the mystical world of Henry Van Dyke's "The Story of the Other Wise Man," where we unravel the tale of Artaban, the fourth wise man. This episode invites you into the spiritual and philosophical quest of Artaban, set against the backdrop of ancient Persia under Augustus Caesar and Herod. As Artaban embarks on his pursuit of knowledge and truth, his story becomes a tapestry of moral dilemmas, trials, and the relentless pursuit of enlightenment, inviting you to reflect on your own life's journey.Transport yourself to the opulent surroundings of Ecbatana, where Artaban's introspective saga begins amidst a gathering of Parthian followers of Zoroaster. Listen as we explore the profound themes of faith and perseverance, reflected in Artaban's journey to Babylon, guided by celestial signs and accompanied by his faithful horse, Vazda. As Artaban grapples with skepticism from his peers and the solitude of his mission, he remains steadfast in his quest, embodying the courage to walk his path alone.Feel the tension as Artaban faces poignant decisions: aiding a dying stranger or continuing his quest to find the Messiah. Set against the striking landscapes of Egypt and Alexandria, Artaban's narrative unfolds with themes of patience and love, guided by the wisdom of a Hebrew rabbi. His story, rich with the promise of a kingdom founded on unconquerable love, becomes a powerful reminder of the transformative power of storytelling and the deeper meanings behind our pursuits.Support the showThe American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

Understanding Reactions to Jesus' Birth: Lessons from the Nativity StoryIn this enlightening sermon, we delve into various Biblical characters' reactions to Jesus' birth, including Joseph, Mary, Herod, Elizabeth, and the shepherds. Liz Gregg encourages the audience to reflect on their own emotional responses and motivations, using these Biblical examples to teach important lessons about obedience, jealousy, trust, and the human heart. Engaging group discussions and personal reflections are used to foster deeper understanding and spiritual growth. The message emphasizes the importance of allowing our emotions to draw us closer to God and to guide us towards more meaningful and obedient actions in our daily lives. #nativity #kingdom #sozo00:00 Introduction and Group Discussions03:51 Joseph and Mary's Reactions07:07 Herod's Reaction and Lessons11:51 Elizabeth's Joyful Response16:32 The Shepherds' Obedience21:02 Mary's Trust and Acceptance24:13 Understanding and Managing Emotions30:48 Conclusion and Final Prayer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's conversation, Lars Olson explains what the season of Advent is and why it's not simply a season of preparation ahead of Christmas: it's announcing Christ is here, now. Lars also teaches Kiri and Mason why Luke includes so many historical details about the political and religious leaders of the time and the significance of “the wilderness,” and why we encounter God there. Lastly, in a text with John the Bapist saying Jesus is near and quotes from Isaiah saying this is what God is going to do, it can be tempting for preachers to give a call to action before Jesus is born. Lars reminds us God has already delivered his promise and how preachers can effectively connect those dots in this text. ADVENT PLANNING GUIDE Luther House of Study is pleased to announce a brand new Advent Planning Guide! Courtesy of Pastor Mark Anderson, this guide contains Advent weekly planning outlines, Bible studies, activities, liturgies, and hymns. Download the guide at lutherhouseofstudy.org/resources.COURSES Do you like what you learn in the conversations on Scripture First? Luther House of Study has numerous interactive courses available for free on subjects ranging from the Lutheran Catechism to core Christian beliefs. Visit lutherhouseofstudy.org to see their available courses, create an account to track your progress, and dive deeper into your learning. SING TO THE LORD Martin Luther said, "Next to the word of God, the art of music is the greatest treasure in the world." To understand the importance of hymnody in the Lutheran church, Lars Olson and Mason Van Essen sit down with Zachary Brockhoff to discuss the lectionary's hymns, their meaning and history, and how the music preaches the Gospel. 

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.”   Key Words: Priest, Duty, Angel, Good News, Vision Keystone Verse: I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. (Luke 1:19)     Download Bulletin

As we enter the Advent season, Rev. Paul Lawler invites us to reflect on the surprising beginnings of Jesus' story—not with Mary and Joseph but with Zechariah and Elizabeth, the parents of John the Baptist. In this message, a vivid picture is painted of the challenges Zechariah and Elizabeth faced—living under Herod's oppressive rule, enduring years of unanswered prayers, and bearing the shame of childlessness. Yet, despite the odds, God was preparing them for something incredible.Zechariah's once-in-a-lifetime moment to serve in the temple becomes a powerful backdrop for how God often works in our lives. Even in the silence and uncertainty, He is making us ready for His plans. Zechariah's prayer at the altar of incense reminds us that, like him, we are called to persist in prayer, trusting that God's timing is perfect.Zechariah's story teaches us to trust God's preparation in our lives, even when the waiting is long and the circumstances are challenging. Like John the Baptist, we are called to prepare the way for the Lord, making our lives ready for God's move.Listen now to be encouraged and challenged to prepare your heart for what God is doing in this season. God often works in the silence and the waiting, preparing us for the greater things to come.

For more information about Every Nation Metro Vancouver please visit www.enmetrovan.ca

The post The Characters of Christmas | Herod appeared first on Christ Point Church.

Istrouma Baptist Church (BR) Dec 1, 2024 ========== December 1 | Advent Welcome! We're glad you've joined us today for our Sunday morning worship service! For more information about Istrouma, go to istrouma.org or contact us at info@istrouma.org. We glorify God by making disciples of all nations. ========== Connection Card https://istrouma.org/myinfo December 1, 2024 - Micah Cating ADVENT IS A SEASON OF WAITING GOD'S PAST FAITHFULNESS GIVES US HOPE FOR THE FUTURE Matthew 2:1-12 ESV 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 saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: 6 “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.'” 7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way. THE WISE MEN LOOKED BACK BEFORE LOOKING FORWARD ISAIAH 9:6-7 ESV For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. WE HAVE EVEN MORE HOPE THAN THE WISE MEN 1 PETER 1:3 ESV Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. GOD'S PAST FAITHFULNESS GIVES US HOPE FOR THE FUTURE ADVENT RESOURCES: istrouma.org/advent Want to receive weekly announcements in your inbox each week? https://istrouma.org/email Give Online Text ISTROUMA IBC to 73256 or go to: https://istrouma.org/give Our Website https://istrouma.org

In this episode, we dive into the first Sunday of Advent, exploring the profound theme of hope. Through the stories of Zechariah, Herod, and Mary, we reflect on how biblical hope isn't mere wishful thinking but a tangible, future-oriented anticipation rooted in God's promises. From Zechariah's skepticism to Herod's fear and Mary's faithful response, we see how hope challenges and transforms us.Journey with us as we uncover how Advent invites us to embrace both celebration and waiting. We'll reflect on the tension between our present struggles and the ultimate restoration promised by God. Whether you're wrestling with doubt, longing for control, or striving to live faithfully in the waiting, this episode encourages us to reorient our hearts and lives around the unshakable hope found in Christ.Key Takeaways:- How the stories of Zechariah, Herod, and Mary offer different responses to hope. - The meaning of Advent as a season of both waiting and celebration. - Practical ways to live with hope, drawing strength from God's promises for the future. Join us as we step into the Advent season, grounding ourselves in the transformative power of hope.

By Leslie Housman

1. The King of Syria Tried to Capture Elisha.2. Elisha's Servant Was Terrified Until the LORD Opened his Eyes.3. May the LORD Open our Eyes as we Examine the Christmas Story.4. Matthew's Account Focuses on the Dangers from Herod and Jesus Legal Genealogy.5. Luke's Account Focuses on the Events that Took Place at the Time of Jesus' Birth and on his Literal, Biological Descent from Adam, Abraham, and King David.6. Did Everyone See and Hear the Heavenly Host?7. Have you Ever Entertained Angels Without Knowing it?8. Authentic Christianity Is Committed to Right Doctrine and Right Practice.9. Had the Lord Jesus Died as an Infant, There Would Be no Redemption.10. You Don't Have to Be Afraid.11. According to the Power of the Holy Spirit, he Lifts us up to Where he Is.

Scripture:  Luke 1:1-24 Dear Church, “In the time of Herod king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah…” Luke begins his gospel acknowledging that there are already many other written records of the life of Jesus, but he promises that his will be an ‘orderly account' because he has ‘carefully investigated everything from the beginning.' His account … Continue reading "Faith Beyond Belief-Week 1 // Zechariah // Pastor Kate Murphy"

“Control turns the very thing that God sends to bring us life and freedom into a perceived threat to our sense of security. We end up trading the peace of His provision for the anxiety of our own striving.” - @andrejosiah Pst Andre kicked off our advent series, Missing Jesus, as we enter a season of contemplation as a church family, and collectively ponder on the wonder of Jesus' birth. Sharing from the life of king Herod, who grappled with an excessive need for control, Pst Andre asked us to consider if there are areas in our lives where we too cling to our desire for control, and as a result, experience exhaustion and spiritual emptiness. While the illusion of control enslaves us, we can have hope in Jesus. As we let go of control, and a choose a posture of surrender, He grants us His peace and rest. As we enter the new week and reflect on the word, let us reflect on the areas that we are clinging to control that God is prompting us to release. As we prayerfully surrender them to Him, that we can rediscover life in Christ and His resurrection power.

& adds& combines& links together& expands& fills in the gaps& brings more& tells a more complete story Luke loves to use & ...especially when He's telling the story of Jesus' birth.  The Christmas story is full of people who were chosen by God to usher in The Savior of the world.     Zechariah & Elizabeth & John the Baptist & Mary & Joseph & The Innkeeper & Jesus & Shepherds & Wise Men & Herod & Simeon & AnnaSome of these people provide a beautiful picture of honor & submission & faithfulness & obedience. Others paint another picture. One of doubt & selfishness & personal ambition & pride & insecurity.But God's Story will always be told & He still wants to use people like you to tell it!This Christmas season, listen to the story of the birth of Christ with fresh ears.Let the &s of Christmas add to your joyLet the &s of Christmas combine and link together your heart with those around youLet the &s of Christmas expand your adoration of our SaviorLet the &s of Christmas fill in the gaps that the enemy likes to take advantage ofLet the &s of Christmas bring more Peace & Hope & Faith & let the &s of Christmas tell a more complete story of Jesus' full & perfect Love for youLet the &s of Christmas be told through your life as we celebrate the birth of our King Jesus.

Do you have a little herod competing for the throne in your heart? Here are 4 ways to deal with it.

Luke 1:5-25 English Standard Version Birth of John the Baptist Foretold 5 In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah,[a] 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.” Footnotes Luke 1:5 Greek Zacharias  

Passage: Matthew 2: 1-18 Preacher: Troy Smalley Support the show

Predictably, we meet them only during the Christmas season: Herod the Great—and Mary, the mother of Jesus. Both play an enormous role in that story. But a deeper look at their lives and legacies is a journey worth taking. This week on The Land and the Book—we'll explore facets of Herod and Mary that will surprise and amaze. So, make it a point to join us for The Land and the Book. And invite a friend to listen, as well.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/landandthebookSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's easy to get wrapped up in a flurry of Christmas activities this time of year.... forgetting Jesus, who is at the center of it all.  Ed Stetzer talks with author Daniel Darling about his book, The Characters of Christmas and the real life people in the Christmas story, from the angels and shepherds to Herod and Jesus himself.  He says digging into the Christmas story with fresh eyes during this time of year,  can help reveal truths from their lives that impact us today on Ed Stetzer Live.   Ed Stetzer Live is a listener supported program.  To donate, click here. To learn more about Ed Stetzer, click here. To learn more about Ed Stetzer Live, click here.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/edstetzerliveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Message for 11/24/2024 "True Validation" by Justin McTeer. *All verses are NLT unless otherwise noted* Matthew 26:47-56 - And even as Jesus said this, Judas, one of the twelve disciples, arrived with a crowd of men armed with swords and clubs. They had been sent by the leading priests and elders of the people.48 The traitor, Judas, had given them a prearranged signal: “You will know which one to arrest when I greet him with a kiss.” 49 So Judas came straight to Jesus. “Greetings, Rabbi!” he exclaimed and gave him the kiss. 50 Jesus said, “My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for.” Then the others grabbed Jesus and arrested him. 51 But one of the men with Jesus pulled out his sword and struck the high priest's slave, slashing off his ear. 52 “Put away your sword,” Jesus told him. “Those who use the sword will die by the sword. 53 Don't you realize that I could ask my Father for thousands of angels to protect us, and he would send them instantly? 54 But if I did, how would the Scriptures be fulfilled that describe what must happen now?” 55 Then Jesus said to the crowd, “Am I some dangerous revolutionary, that you come with swords and clubs to arrest me? Why didn't you arrest me in the Temple? I was there teaching every day. 56 But this is all happening to fulfill the words of the prophets as recorded in the Scriptures.” At that point, all the disciples deserted him and fled. Matthew 26:57-68 - Then the people who had arrested Jesus led him to the home of Caiaphas, the high priest, where the teachers of religious law and the elders had gathered. 58 Meanwhile, Peter followed him at a distance and came to the high priest's courtyard. He went in and sat with the guards and waited to see how it would all end. 59 Inside, the leading priests and the entire high council were trying to find witnesses who would lie about Jesus, so they could put him to death. 60 But even though they found many who agreed to give false witness, they could not use anyone's testimony. Finally, two men came forward 61 who declared, “This man said, ‘I am able to destroy the Temple of God and rebuild it in three days.'” 62 Then the high priest stood up and said to Jesus, “Well, aren't you going to answer these charges? What do you have to say for yourself?” 63 But Jesus remained silent. Then the high priest said to him, “I demand in the name of the living God—tell us if you are the Messiah, the Son of God.” 64 Jesus replied, “You have said it. And in the future you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God's right hand[i]and coming on the clouds of heaven.” 65 Then the high priest tore his clothing to show his horror and said, “Blasphemy! Why do we need other witnesses? You have all heard his blasphemy. 66 What is your verdict?” “Guilty!” they shouted. “He deserves to die!” 67 Then they began to spit in Jesus' face and beat him with their fists. And some slapped him, 68 jeering, “Prophesy to us, you Messiah! Who hit you that time?” The ancient man approached God (or even the gods) as the accused person approaches his judge. For the modern man, the roles are quite reversed. He is the judge: God is in the dock. He is quite a kindly judge; if God should have a reasonable defense for being the god who permits war, poverty, and disease, he is ready to listen to it. The trial may even end in God's acquittal. But the important thing is that man is on the bench and God is in the dock. - CS Lewis Luke 23:8-9 - Herod was delighted at the opportunity to see Jesus, because he had heard about him and had been hoping for a long time to see him perform a miracle. 9 He asked Jesus question after question, but Jesus refused to answer. Jesus Needs No Validation 1 Thessalonians 2:6 - As for human praise, we have never sought it from you or anyone else. Mark 3:20-21 - One time Jesus entered a house, and the crowds began to gather again. Soon he and his disciples couldn't even find time to eat. 21 When his family heard what was happening, they tried to take him away. “He's out of his mind,” they said. Mark 3:31-35 - Then Jesus' mother and brothers came to see him. They stood outside and sent word for him to come out and talk with them. 32 There was a crowd sitting around Jesus, and someone said, “Your mother and your brothers are outside asking for you.” 33 Jesus replied, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” 34 Then he looked at those around him and said, “Look, these are my mother and brothers. 35 Anyone who does God's will is my brother and sister and mother.” Proverbs 29:25 - The fear of man brings a snare, But one who trusts in the Lord will be protected.

     The Bible addresses the reality of angels, Satan, and demons. All angels were created holy, but because they have volition, some rebelled against God and defied His will. Holy angels are spirit beings created by God to serve Him and minister to believers (Matt 16:27; 26:53; 1 Tim 5:21; Heb 1:14). They are sometimes depicted as messengers carrying out God's will (Dan 9:20-22; 10:1-21), such as when Gabriel announced the birth of Jesus (Luke 1:26-38). Lucifer, an angel of the class of cherubim, was created perfect, but became Satan at the time of his rebellion against God (Isa 14:12-15; Ezek 28:12-17). Satan convinced a third of the angels to follow him in his rebellion (Rev 12:4, 7), and his kingdom of darkness was expanded to include the earth when he persuaded Adam and Eve to follow him rather than God (Gen 3:1-8). At the time of the fall, the first humans—God's theocratic administrators (Gen 1:26-28)—gave Satan the title deed to the earth (Luke 4:6). This explains why Jesus referred to Satan as “the ruler of this world” (John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11). Other passages of Scripture call Satan “the god of this world” (2 Cor 4:4), and “the prince of the power of the air” (Eph 2:2), informing us “that the whole world lies in the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19). But Satan is no benevolent dictator. Scripture reveals he rules as a tyrant who has “weakened the nations” (Isa 14:12), and currently “deceives the whole world” (Rev 12:9; cf. Rev 20:3). Satan and his angels will inevitably be assigned to the Lake of Fire (Matt 25:41; Rev 20:10).      Angels, both good and evil, influence the world around us. God used angels to protect His prophet Elisha (2 Ki 6:8-17), to destroy an Assyrian army (2 Ki 19:35), and to protect the baby Jesus from Herod the Great (Matt 2:13). Evil spirits were used to discipline King Saul (1 Sam 16:14-16), to influence King Ahab through his false prophets (1 Ki 22:19-23), and will be used in the future to control human kings who defy the Lord (Rev 16:13-14). Today, evil spirits influence politics, marriage, family, education, judicial systems, economics, entertainment, and society as a whole, promoting injustice, corruption, or opposition to God and His Word. Scripture reveals that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Eph 6:12). While believers are not called to fear such forces, we are encouraged to stand firm through prayer, the armor of God, and reliance on the Holy Spirit (Eph 6:13-18). Dr. Steven R. Cook   --

& adds& combines& links together& expands& fills in the gaps& brings more& tells a more complete story Luke loves to use & ...especially when He's telling the story of Jesus' birth.  The Christmas story is full of people who were chosen by God to usher in The Savior of the world.     Zechariah & Elizabeth & John the Baptist & Mary & Joseph & The Innkeeper & Jesus & Shepherds & Wise Men & Herod & Simeon & AnnaSome of these people provide a beautiful picture of honor & submission & faithfulness & obedience. Others paint another picture. One of doubt & selfishness & personal ambition & pride & insecurity.But God's Story will always be told & He still wants to use people like you to tell it!This Christmas season, listen to the story of the birth of Christ with fresh ears.Let the &s of Christmas add to your joyLet the &s of Christmas combine and link together your heart with those around youLet the &s of Christmas expand your adoration of our SaviorLet the &s of Christmas fill in the gaps that the enemy likes to take advantage ofLet the &s of Christmas bring more Peace & Hope & Faith & let the &s of Christmas tell a more complete story of Jesus' full & perfect Love for youLet the &s of Christmas be told through your life as we celebrate the birth of our King Jesus.

Tying gospels together; Church network; Congregational free assembly; Ten-family gatherings; Social safety net; Being there for neighbors; Choosing ministers; Organized communities; Christ's commands; "Families"; Why Christ was crucified; Essence of the kingdom; Commandments; Quakers; "Feed my sheep"; What Christ was actually doing; Misconceptions of early Christianity; Elements of the Church; Kingdom government; Caring through charity; Directives of Christ; Mark 16:1; Sitting in darkness; Following the light; Herod's gorgeous robe; Jesus, king of Judea; The young man in the tomb; v8 last verse?; What the kingdom of God looks like; Nature of the network; "Deacon"; Care in reading the bible; Casting out Christians; Rightly dividing the bread; Prophesy; Not believing Jesus; Mt 19:8 hardness of hearts; Mark 3:5; How hard is your heart?; What gospel? What creature?; Micah 5:8; Doctrines of men; Network links of assistance; Saving others; Softening your heart; Baptism; The way of Christ; Signs of believers; Serpent poisons; Repentance; Calendars; New archeology; Discovering your personal connection; Seeking God's system; No shortcut to the kingdom; Changing your heart; Kissing rings; Rituals and ceremonies; "Religion"; Pharisee hypocrites; Transferring the kingdom; Saul's folly; Today's rituals and ceremonies; Mt 20:25; Mk 10:42; "Gentiles"; Seven men; Free bread systems/tables; Lk 22:25; Oppressive taxation; Socialism; Protest? Or repent?; Herod's "leaven"; Daily bread?; Wages/rewards of unrighteousness; "Mammon"; Appetites for benefits; Lk 16:9; Mt 5:19; Covetousness; Welfare snares; $36T debt; Col 3:5 Idolatry; Eph 5:5; Where your benefits come from; Beast?; Foolish virgins; Laying down your life daily; Be not afraid!

Defining Moments: A point in life that becomes a _________ and _________. [Luke 8:1-3] Soon afterward Jesus began a tour of the nearby towns and villages, preaching and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom of God. He took his twelve disciples with him, [2] along with some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases. Among them were Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons; [3] Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's business manager; Susanna; and many others who were contributing from their own resources to support Jesus and his disciples. Mary dropped ___________________ to follow Jesus. [John 20:11-17] Mary was standing outside the tomb crying, and as she wept, she stooped and looked in. [12] She saw two white-robed angels, one sitting at the head and the other at the foot of the place where the body of Jesus had been lying. [13] “Dear woman, why are you crying?” the angels asked her. “Because they have taken away my Lord,” she replied, “and I don't know where they have put him.” [14] She turned to leave and saw someone standing there. It was Jesus, but she didn't recognize him. [15] “Dear woman, why are you crying?” Jesus asked her. “Who are you looking for?” She thought he was the gardener. “Sir,” she said, “if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him.” [16] “Mary!” Jesus said. She turned to him and cried out, “Rabboni!” (which is Hebrew for “Teacher”). [17] “Don't cling to me,” Jesus said, “for I haven't yet ascended to the Father. But go find my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'” With a word Jesus turns her ____________ into _________. When we have a personal encounter with Jesus we become a witness to His __________________. Your life will testify of His ________________. [Mark 16:15] And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. Your life will tell of his ________________. [1 Corinthians 6:14 CSB] God raised up the Lord and will also raise us up by his power. You must ________________ your story. Your own before & after story is the most _______________ tool to share Jesus' message with the world.

The Land of Israel - Caesarea Part 3:  Herod's Theatre  -  English only. Join us as we explore the ancient theatre of Caesarea and learn lessons from its history! Recorded September 12, 2024.

"And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them.  And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou art God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:  Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?  The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ.  For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,  For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.  And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.  And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.  And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.  And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all." Acts 4:23-33

In a rare moment when Jesus does not appear in the gospel, Mark tells the story of Herod's beheading of John the Baptist. Herod's story is a cautionary one about the misery that comes when someone devotes their life to the pursuit of earthly power. Where Herod's power destroys, Jesus' power, exemplified in the life of John, by contrast, creates, redeems and sets free. It's his power that we are made for and we find it by dying to our broken versions of power and rising with him in his mighty strength. By Ed Flint

Crucifixion?; The "Word" = right reason of Christ; Law of Nature; Benefits at our neighbors' expense; Corban making God's word to none effect; Augustus Caesar; Roman republic?; "Emperator"; Caesar story; "Son of God"; Submitting to slavery; "God"; Making covenants; Societal shifts in thinking; Unrecognized captivity; Assurance of freedom; Covetousness not allowed; Manufactured conflict; Conflict in Christ's time; Sanhedrin; Appointment of 70; "Stones" for the Temple; No exercising authority; Sacred rights; Whole Gospel; Assembling the puzzle; Statues; Government welfare; Christ's ministers duty; Corruption; Accountability in kingdom of God; Taking back responsibilities; Early Church functions; One purse; Weakening the people; Inflation; Thriving Christians; Non-participators; Temple tribute; Building the Roman colosseum; Biting your neighbor; Wanting to believe we are free; Pilate's "Superscription"; Matt 27:27; Lk 23:11; Mark 15:24; Herod's recognition of Christ; "Parens Patria"; The Veil; Hebrew (poreketh) "pai-resh-kuf-tav"; from "perek" (cruelty); Weakened, degenerate people; Soup kitchens; Al Capone?; Income tax; FDR's bondage; Old Testament "Vail"; Tabernacle; Jubilee; Church in the Wilderness; Slavery = force; Substitute "choice" for people; Every day election day; Saul syndrome; Scattering the flock; Saved by a new Caesar?; Logos of Moses; Rebuilding stone Temple; Red Heifer?; Misunderstanding symbology; Ripping of the veil; Temple full of blood; Electing Rulers?; Repentance; Consenting to covetousness; Torment?; Holy Spirit; Immigrants; Veil within us; Pai = oral torah; Resh = process; Living the law - sacrifice; Gathering together; Kuf = crown - actualized potential; Power to heal; Tav = faith; Living by faith to receive actualized potential from God; Altars of faith, hope and charity; Tabernacle covered with skins; Offices of Caesar; Who will repent?; Healing demoniac; Caring for neighbor; "Worship"?; Bondage of Egypt; Owning your labor; Deciding good and evil; Getting you to bite one another; "love"; Hearing the Word; Tearing of the veil; Binding by love; Archeological evidence; Sacrifice of family; Ear ticklers; Receiving life more abundantly; Col 3:5; Idolatry; Wrath of God; Eph 5:5; Constantinian church; Good news knowing what to repent from; 1 Cor 5:10; Fornicators with the world; Unrighteous mammon; Creating the alternative; Setting your neighbor free first; Legal charity; Lady Godiva?; Blessing others; God of salvation; Individual salvation; Previewing Mark 16; Gathering together; May your eyes be opened.

This week we welcome back special guest and Enneagram 3, AJ Sherrill.  This time, we explore AJ's journey of spiritual direction, his insights on the Enneagram, and his new book, Rediscovering Christmas: Surprising Insights into the Story You Thought You Knew. We discuss the importance of slowing down during the busy holiday season, the emotional homes we all have, and how the Christmas story can be re-examined through a fresh lens. We explore the fascinating characters from the Nativity, including the often-overlooked roles of the Innkeeper, Zechariah, and Herod, and how their stories resonate with our own lives today. Join us as we reflect on the deeper meanings beneath the story and what it truly means to encounter the divine. Plus, we speculate on the Enneagram types of various biblical figures and how their stories can guide us in our spiritual growth. This episode is packed with insights and humor that you won't want to miss!  

Send us a textJoseph is warned in a dream to flee to Egypt to protect Jesus. Herod kills the male young children in Bethlehem. An angel tells Joseph to return to Israel.Join Pastor Daryl as he journeys through the entire Bible. Read or subscribe to his devotional at simplythebible.blog. Visit the church website. If you enjoy Simply the Bible, please give us a rating and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. That helps us a lot!

What does it take to liberate people from exceptionalism? To liberate a teaching?  Such a pernicious snare, that saying of yours, “family first.” It was your fear of losing the tribe that led you to elect a king and build a city against the will of God.  So he sent his Shepherd to rescue his sheep from Cain's cities, to liberate his people and the Torah from the stone idols fashioned by Cain's sons.For those who have stayed with me on the podcast all these years, let me say it plainly:The idea that all people are created equal—an American principle—is beautiful and correct, but like the Torah, it is held hostage by identity politics. Like the preaching of the Cross under a Roman standard, it has been corrupted by a military-industrial nationalist agenda that feeds on the broken backs of impoverished women and children.Nothing changes under the sun.The Gospel of Luke is the Gospel to the Poor. It is a radical Gospel of Liberation. It this scroll of the Torah, the Lion of Judah, breaking free from the gilded prison of Herod's Temple—shattering the gates of brass—raging against you for your sake on behalf of the poor.He who has ears to hear to hear, let him hear!Still, the scroll of Luke is not a “liberation theology.” It is a warning that we must forsake what we have built, not build back again, but abandon what Cain built to roam freely with the Lion in his land. As Paul said:“For if I build again the things I have destroyed, I prove myself to be a sinner.” (Galatians 2:18)To borrow a term from psychology (one that I've used before), prophetic preaching keeps the disciple in a perpetual state of cognitive dissonance, unable to fall back on the natural human instinct to reconcile our innate hypocrisies.The teaching of Scripture is not “God is love.” The teaching of Scripture is “you are a hypocrite.”Until you submit to this repetitive literary frame, you can't hear what Moses said, let alone Jesus. You can't be set free. That is why the Qur'an went to such great lengths to stress St. Paul's teaching of submission.Because the “children of the book” are no such thing. They still belong to Pharaoh.This week, I discuss Luke 7:11-16.Show Notesש-ע-ר (shin-‘ayn-resh) / ش-ع-ر (shīn-‘ayn-rāʾ)The Hebrew word שַֽׁעַר (sha'ar) means “gate” or “entrance.” It corresponds to πύλη (pylē) in Luke 7:12, functional with Ruth 4:"Now Boaz went up to the gate (שַּׁעַר֮, sha‘ar) and sat down there, and behold, the close relative of whom Boaz spoke was passing by, so he said, “Turn aside, friend, sit down here.” And he turned aside and sat down." (Ruth 4:1)This root relates to awareness, feeling, and literary expression in Arabic:شِعْر (shi‘r)—“poetry”: This is one of the most common words from this root, referring to poetry or verse, which is central to Arabic literary tradition.شَاعِر (shā‘ir) - “poet”: This word describes a person who composes poetry, playing a significant role in Arabic and Islamic culture.شَعَرَ (sha‘ara) - “to feel” or “to perceive”: This verb means to feel or become aware, capturing the idea of sensitivity or perception.مَشَاعِر (mashā‘ir) - “feelings” or “emotions”: This word, in the plural form, denotes feelings, emotions, or sentiments, often used to express emotional sensitivity.شعار (shi‘ār) “logo, emblem, or slogan”: identification or awareness through a symbol, slogan, or distinguishing mark, a “sign.”مَشْعَر (mash‘ar) - “place of awareness” or “sacred monument”: Used in Islamic contexts, mashʿar refers to a sacred or symbolic place, often in pilgrimage sites like Mashʿar al-Ḥarām near Mecca.נ-ע-ם (nun-‘ayn-mem) / ن-ع-ي-م (nūn-ʿayn-yāʾ-mīm)The word Ναΐν (Nain) is derived from the Hebrew word נָעִים (na'im), meaning “pleasant” or “lovely.” Behold, how good and pleasant (na'im) it is when brothers dwell in unity! (psalm 133:1)It, too, corresponds (prescriptively) to the books of Ruth נָעֳמִי (Naomi) but also to the Qur'an. For reference: “Blessing,” “favor,” “bounty” (ni‘mah): نِعْمَة  “And if you count the blessings of God, you will not be able to enumerate them.” (Surah Ibrahim, 14:34)“Bliss,” “luxury,” “delight” (na‘īm): نَعِيم “In gardens of delight.” (Surah Al-Waqi'ah, 56:12)“To live in ease or comfort” (na‘ama): نَعَمَ “And for you in them are many comforts.” (Surah Al-Mu'minun, 23:21)“Bestower of blessings,” “benevolent one” (mun‘im): مُنْعِم “And indeed, your Lord is the Forgiving, Possessor of great bounty.” (Surah An-Najm, 53:32)“Soft,” “gentle,” “smooth” (nā‘im): نَاعِم “[Some] faces, that Day, will be radiant.” (Surah Al-Ghashiyah, 88:8)“The blessings” (al-ni‘am): النِّعَم “They recognize the favor of God; then they deny it.” (Surah An-Nahl, 16:83)“Softness,” “ease,” “comfort” (na‘mah): نَعْمَة “Lest His punishment should befall you if you deny his blessing.” (Surah Ibrahim, 14:7) ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Send us a comment!Today's Treasure 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, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born.Matthew 2:1-4Support the show

Send us a textWhat makes Herod the Great?  How did he turn from hero to villain?

In this Bible Story, we witness the tragic yet noble death of James. He would be the first apostle to become a martyr, and he would not be the last. As persecution of the church increases, so does the risk of imprisonment. Yet death is no match for Jesus, nor is it a threat to those who believe in him. This story is inspired by Acts 12. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Acts 12:7 from the King James Version.Episode 227: As men and women ran from burning buildings to escape death, they were captured by King Herod and imprisoned. These Christians were the only thing standing between him and power. James, one of the Lord's twelve disciples, remained in the city preaching about the restoration that Jesus brings. While he was preaching, Herod sent guards to kill him where he stood. A public death sent a message from Herod that he is King, not Jesus. But this persecution could not stop Jesus or His followers. Even when Peter was captured and imprisoned, God made a way for him to escape death.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where Do I Take My Doubts?The Gospel According to Luke - Luke 7:18-35The Village Chapel - 11/10/2024John the Baptist was the last and greatest prophet of the Old Covenant (Luke 7:28). He was given the unique honor of preparing the way for the coming Kingdom of the Messiah, Jesus Christ (Micah 3:1). John had publicly proclaimed that Jesus was the Son of God (John 1:34). He had witnessed the Holy Spirit falling upon Jesus and heard God the Father thunder, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:16-17) John's entire life and mission pointed people to Jesus, “...the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world” (John 1:29). Yet even the greatest of the prophets, in his darkest hour, began to doubt. Languishing in Herod's prison, John asks an honest question of Jesus, “Are you the Expected One, or shall we look for another?” (Luke 7:19)John the Baptist's honest question reminds us that doubts are often a part of the Christian life. Join Pastor Tommy as we study the way Jesus responds to John's question with mercy and the light of truth.To find more resources like these, follow us:Website: https://thevillagechapel.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQVTzDbaiXVUAm_mUBDCTJAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tvcnashville/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tvcnashvilleX: https://twitter.com/tvcnashvilleTo support the ongoing mission of The Village Chapel go to https://thevillagechapel.com/give/. If you are a regular giver, thank you for your continued faithfulness and generosity!

Where Do I Take My Doubts?The Gospel According to Luke - Luke 7:18-35The Village Chapel - 11/10/2024John the Baptist was the last and greatest prophet of the Old Covenant (Luke 7:28). He was given the unique honor of preparing the way for the coming Kingdom of the Messiah, Jesus Christ (Micah 3:1). John had publicly proclaimed that Jesus was the Son of God (John 1:34). He had witnessed the Holy Spirit falling upon Jesus and heard God the Father thunder, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:16-17) John's entire life and mission pointed people to Jesus, “...the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world” (John 1:29). Yet even the greatest of the prophets, in his darkest hour, began to doubt. Languishing in Herod's prison, John asks an honest question of Jesus, “Are you the Expected One, or shall we look for another?” (Luke 7:19)John the Baptist's honest question reminds us that doubts are often a part of the Christian life. Join Pastor Tommy as we study the way Jesus responds to John's question with mercy and the light of truth.To find more resources like these, follow us:Website: https://thevillagechapel.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQVTzDbaiXVUAm_mUBDCTJAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tvcnashville/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tvcnashvilleX: https://twitter.com/tvcnashvilleTo support the ongoing mission of The Village Chapel go to https://thevillagechapel.com/give/. If you are a regular giver, thank you for your continued faithfulness and generosity!

About that time King Herod Agrippa began to persecute some believers in the church. He had the apostle James (John's brother) killed with a sword. When Herod saw how much this pleased the Jewish people, he also arrested Peter. (Acts 12:1–3 NLT) Everyone needs a change of narrative sometimes. When life seems to be trending toward disaster, chaos, uncertainty, or suffering, it's comforting to know that God can intervene. He can rewrite the script. All we have to do is ask. God uses prayer to change not just our circumstances but our attitudes and perspectives, our hearts and minds. When we pray, we're acknowledging our weakness. That's a hard thing for some people to do. We think, I can figure this out. I can resolve this conflict. I can save my own family. But it doesn't work. So we call on God and say, “Lord, I'm weak. I need Your help. Please come through for me.” And that's when the narrative starts to change. In Acts 12, we find a changed narrative. Things were looking dim for the early believers. King Herod had killed the apostle James and imprisoned the apostle Peter, two important church leaders. And how did the believers respond? “The church organized a protest and stormed Herod's palace.” No, that's not what happened. “The church boycotted all products made in Rome.” No, not that either. Here is how the believers responded to Peter's imprisonment: “Constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church” (Acts 12:5 NKJV). They prayed, but not just one time. They were engaged in constant prayer. For many people, prayer is a last resort. They say, “We've tried everything. All we can do now is pray.” Prayer is the first thing we should do. Paul said, “Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything” (Philippians 4:6 NLT). Nothing is too small to pray about. Is there a troubling narrative in your life right now? Is there a circumstance that you have no control over that needs to change? Offer it to the Lord in prayer. Jesus said, “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!” (John 15:7). In other words, “Trust Me. Ask Me. I will change your narrative.” The narrative of Acts 12 changes when an angel appears in Peter's cell. Peter's chains fall off, and he walks out of prison. And Herod, the man who imprisoned him, gives a speech that's so impressive that the audience starts referring to him as a god. Herod accepts their praise, falls down dead, and is eaten by worms. At the beginning of Acts 12, Herod held seemingly absolute power and the church was on the ropes. At the end, Herod was worm food and the church had its leader back. It was a narrative twist no one but God could have predicted. And it was an important reminder that no situation is hopeless. Every narrative can be changed through prayer, including yours. — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trial in Sanhedrin; Supreme court?; What was Moses doing?; What was Christ doing?; Setting the captive free; Free from what?; Plot to kill Jesus the Christ; Freewill offerings only; Naked ministers?; Tabernacles?; Government of, for and by the people; Patterns of Tens; Network of charity; "Bishop"; Congregation = free assembly; Mark 15:1; Looking for Pilate's condemnation; "Consultation"; Christ's Sanhedrin; Who was the rightful king?; Appealing to Caesar; Conversation with Pilate; Mt 27:29 Pilate's superscription agreeing with Jesus the king; Paul's half-brother; Pilate knew of Jesus; Lack of jurisdiction; How the law works; Natural law; vs Legal systems; Rights and responsibilities; Pilate marveled; Barabbas; Insurrection?; Preparatory organization; Pilate's plan; David and Goliath; Information sharing; Revealing the whole gospel of the kingdom; Are you gathering?; Envy of Jesus; Empowering everybody; Why Rome was in Judea; 1 Sam 8; The church of Constantine; Repentance; Christ's FEMA; Community of God; "Crucify him"; Electoral college; The Kingdom solution; Democracies and republics; Your mission to spread the gospel; "Delivering" Jesus to the voice of the people; Herod's gorgeous robe?; Prophets; Seeking kingdom and righteousness; Thinking like Christ; Sealing the proclamation; Nicodemus; Eating meat with blood in it?; Golgotha; Crucifying insurrectionists; Railing on Christ; Ps 22:1; Christ's prayer; Deliverance; Mark 15:36; Vinegar wine; Giving up the ghost?; Temple veil; Holy Spirit; Man's special access to divine revelation by grace; "Son of God"; Which centurion?; Which Simon?; Allowing Holy Spirit to come into you; Baptism; v40 women "afar off"; Men not allowed?; Salome?; Entourage of women?; Caring for the needy of society; Are you ministering unto the kingdom?; Joseph of Arimathea; Burial of Jesus; Understanding the Kingdom of God; Seek it, Be it and Do it!

Send us a textWho is Herod the Great and how did he become the King of Israel?