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From ancient days, God promised to send His Messiah. This Savior would bring redemption from sin for all who trust in Him. Today, R.C. Sproul describes the world-changing significance of Christ's incarnation in history. Request R.C. Sproul's devotional book The Advent of Glory, plus lifetime digital access to his teaching series Coming of the Messiah, with your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4514/offer Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the digital teaching series with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global Listen to "The Word Became Flesh," a musical celebration of the incarnation of the Son of God, with narration by R.C. Sproul: https://store.ligonier.org/the-word-became-flesh-download Meet Today's Teacher: R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
Title: “Not An Empty Visit” Part 3 Text: 1 Thessalonians 2:13-16 FCF: We often struggle identifying true faith in contrast to non-saving faith. Prop: Because only true faith saves, we must ensure we have received Jesus Christ in true faith. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to 1 Thessalonians chapter 2. In a moment we'll read from the Legacy Standard Bible starting in verse 1. You can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. Today we will conclude the thought that Paul began with in chapter 2. However, keen observers might have noticed that there is a significant amount of overlap between chapter 1 and what we've discussed in chapter 2 so far. Indeed, if you took it upon yourself to set the two chapters side by side and drew lines or highlighted with different colors themes that are saying the same things with different words – you could illustrate this quite clearly. I won't impose that upon you – but if you are up for the challenge, I'm sure it would be profitable to you. Chapter 2 has largely been put to the Thessalonians in order to prove to them that the mission to their city was one that proved to be fruitless. Paul began by stating that they know it was not in vain because it was God's Gospel at work. He continued by saying that they know it was not in vain because they conducted themselves like a family. Today, Paul will conclude his assurance to them, in that they know it was not in vain because it rendered familiar results both positively and negatively. Please stand with me to give honor to and to focus on the Word of God as it is read. Invocation: Holy Father, You have revealed Yourself to us Your people through the Word, our Lord Jesus Christ. He has come to us, as God With Us. He has come to us to save us from sin, death, hell, the devil, and the kingdom of darkness. You have freed us from the tyranny of our own wisdom and enabled us to believe in You the giver of life. God give us eyes to behold the truth of Your word this morning as we see what makes true faith and what awaits us if we are without it. May we take the words of hope and warning today in faith, and may it have the effect upon us You desire. We pray this in Jesus' name – Amen. Transition: [Slide 2] “Faith that saves has one distinguishing quality; saving faith is a faith that produces obedience, it is a faith that brings about a way of life.” Billy Graham “A man at his wit's end is not at his faith's end.” Matthew Henry “The function of faith is to turn God's promises into facts.” J. Oswald Chambers Let these thoughts wash over you as we embark on the truth of the passage this morning. I.) True faith produces belief in God's Word and suffering for Christ, so we must ensure we have received Jesus Christ in true faith. (13-14) a. [Slide 3] 13 - And for this reason we also thank God without ceasing that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also is at work in you who believe. i. It takes two sides to make a visit profitable. ii. Paul has, in the first twelve verses, explained how he and his companions did their part to produce a successful and fruitful mission among them. iii. They took God's gospel and gave it to them without unseemly methods or greedy motives. iv. They adopted them as family and loved them accordingly. They cared for them like parents, both supplying what they needed to grow and thrive and teaching them to live a life worthy of God's Kingdom. v. But all of this would have been for nothing if the message was ineffective to produce any kind of spiritual change in them. vi. In fact, without God's empowering the message of His gospel, the Thessalonians would never have heard it as His Word. vii. So Paul gives thanks once again, without ceasing, to God, that the Thessalonians responded to the message the way they did. viii. Going back to chapter 1 verse 4-5, we see that Paul expresses similar thoughts. ix. He is thanking God because he is confident that the Thessalonian believers were elect of God. x. Why? xi. Primarily because of how the gospel came to them. xii. Not in word only (ie words of men only) but in the power of the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. xiii. Paul's thanksgiving here is expressed in more detail. xiv. What does it mean that the gospel came in power, in the Spirit, and with full conviction? xv. It means they responded in true faith. Well, how do they know they have true faith? There are two examples in this text. xvi. First, that they believed the content of the message as though it were from God and second, that they received the power of the message. 1. The content of the message, if received in true faith, must be from God. a. The evangelists were demonstrating holy, righteous, and blameless lifestyles and exhorting, encouraging and insisting that the Thessalonians do the same. b. All of this is couched in the idea that a Kingdom is coming where Christ reigns over all, and demands purest devotion and worship. c. The same Lord who died to save them from their sins, will one day return to judge the living and the dead. He will restore His people and make them to rule with Him in that Kingdom. d. If someone receives this in true faith – they must conclude it is from God. e. Paul reveals in a later letter that the Word of God is hidden from those who are without God's Spirit. God's Spirit must do a work in an unbeliever in order to enable them to understand and believe what the Word of God teaches. f. So, we say that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God… which is true. But hearing the Word of God to the point of understanding that it is from God and even what that message means – all comes through the power of the Holy Spirit. g. We call this step in the salvation process – regeneration. And although the bible does not explicitly teach that it precedes faith, the scriptures clearly teach that God must do something to enable a person to believe the gospel of Jesus Christ. And He must do this to bring them out of their spiritually dead state. Since this is what regeneration is, it is safe for us to conclude that it must precede faith. h. Paul alludes to this here – in that the Thessalonians did not perceive this as a message from men – but they took what the evangelists said as the very words of God. A conclusion they could not have arrived at without the power of the Holy Spirit – which Paul said in chapter 1, did happen when the gospel came to them. 2. The second way we know they responded in true faith, is by the powerful result of that message being received. a. To those who truly believe, the Word of God produces an effect. b. We should expect the Word of God, preached, taught, read, heard, studied, mediated on, memorized, and illustrated to have a powerful effect upon those who are truly God's people. c. Warnings about sin and falling away, and pursuing righteousness, and loving God and others – should have a distinct influence over the hearts of those who are God's people. d. It is a predictable outcome that if absent calls into question the very legitimacy of our faith. xvii. So how specifically were the Thessalonians powerfully affected by the Word they received from God? b. [Slide 4] 14 - For you, brothers, became imitators of the churches of God in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, for you also suffered the same things at the hands of your own countrymen, even as they did from the Jews, i. Paul calls out their suffering in the same way that the first members of the church suffered. ii. In fact, he uses the word – imitate again. iii. This also goes back to chapter 1 verse 6. iv. They became imitators of Christ and the evangelists by receiving the word with affliction. v. Paul again denotes that Christians are the same no matter where they are. Whether in Judea or Macedonia. They are also the same no matter WHEN they are. Whether at Pentecost in the formation of the church or now. vi. There are general markers that are common among all those who receive true faith. vii. In this example, Paul points to how on the day of Pentecost, believers on Christ suffered great persecution at the hands of fellow countrymen who rejected the gospel. viii. In a similar way, the Thessalonians are being treated quite poorly by their neighbors, family, friends, and others in the city who rejected the gospel message. ix. Being persecuted by unbelievers who are among those closest to you is one way that the legitimacy of your faith is demonstrated. c. [Slide 5] Summary of the Point: Paul's primary point in this chapter so far has been to verify that the mission they had among the Thessalonians only a few months previous, was not an empty and fruitless mission. Countering the claims of their fellow residents of Thessalonica, Paul knows it wasn't fruitless because they spoke God's gospel with confidence and for His approval. He also knows it wasn't fruitless because they felt a familial connection to the Thessalonians. And finally, they know it wasn't a fruitless mission because it produced predictable results in the city. The first result is regarding those who received the gospel message. Because they received this message in true faith, they were convinced it was a message from God and were changed by this message to the extent that they endured suffering for Christ's name. True faith produces belief in God's Word and a willingness, and even a joy to endure suffering for Christ's sake. This would be very encouraging to the Thessalonians, to know that these seasoned believers were confident in their faith. But our application must cautiously approach this. We must begin rather with a need for us to make sure that we have received true faith in Jesus Christ. Then and only then can we be assured and take comfort in the apostle's words. Transition: [Slide 6 (blank)] But what other predictable result comes when the gospel of Jesus Christ is truly received by a group of people? In what else does Paul draw confidence that the Thessalonian mission was not fruitless? II.) Without true faith it is impossible to please God or be at peace with Him or mankind, so we must ensure we have received Jesus Christ in true faith. (15-16) a. [Slide 7] 15 - who both killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets, i. Paul now embarks upon what seems like a rabbit trail. ii. He seeks to expand upon the behavior of the Jewish people who have so opposed the gospel message and have had a history of opposing God's word in general. iii. Here he says that these same Jews who persecuted their own countrymen for believing on Jesus, are the ones who killed the Lord Jesus and their own prophets. iv. Paul again uses familial or collective language. Obviously, the same people who killed Jesus could not be the ones who killed all the prophets down through their history. And most likely they are not the same ones who drove Paul or the apostles out of Judea. v. Instead, Paul refers to a branch of Israel that has been cut off. vi. Paul is not being antisemitic here. He is merely pointing out a group of people who although having the racial privilege of being God's portion, have continued to reject Him as their King and Lord. vii. They are following in an unfortunate history of the Jewish people who strayed from Yahweh both in worship and in conduct to kill their own prophets and those God has sent to speak the truth to them. viii. The crown jewel in this ungodly behavior is, of course, the murder of their own Messiah and God – Jesus of Nazareth. ix. They continued their work of unbelief with Paul and his companions. b. [Slide 8] and drove us out, i. This could be referring to several instances where the Jews drove Paul or Christ's other servants out of certain places. ii. The “us” here could simply refer to Jewish believers, or may even refer to the evangelists themselves. iii. In any case – he points to the majority opposition of the Jewish people to receive their own Messiah or any who preach in His name. c. [Slide 9] and do not please God, i. Since Jesus is God's Messiah, His Servant, the Son of Man that the Ancient of Days will lift up to occupy the same throne as Yahweh… ii. You cannot oppose Christ or Christ's followers without also opposing God. iii. It is impossible for any to please God without first believing on Jesus Christ. iv. All the effort put in keeping the law, even if it were successful, would fail to please God if the person did not put their faith in Christ alone. v. And so, these Jews, in spite of being God's portion and part of Abraham's line, cannot please God and oppose His Son or His Son's Bride, at the same time. vi. But not only are they opposed to God… d. [Slide 10] and are hostile to all men, i. In opposing Christ, the Savior of the world, it is also impossible to love others. ii. To reject Christ is to render yourself unable to truly love other human beings. iii. Why? iv. Because Christ is the hope of the nations. Christ is the King of Kings. Christ is the Bright and Morning Star. Christ is the Lord of Light. v. As Psalm 2 says, we must kiss the Son lest He be angry. vi. All nations must bow to His rule. All nations have hope only in His rule. vii. All nations who do not hope in Him, will cease to exist. viii. And so, to oppose Christ is to oppose the only hope the nations have. ix. The most hateful thing you can do to humanity is to reject His Messiah and harm His Son's Bride. x. Our culture says the most loving thing you can do is to be tolerant and accepting to all faiths. xi. The truth could not be more opposed to this thought. xii. The exclusivity of Christ as Savior and Lord of all, is the way we establish peace with all men. Peace only comes by the Exclusive rule of Christ alone. xiii. Next, Paul specifically calls out in what way the Jews were hostile to all men… e. [Slide 11] 16 - hindering us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved; i. To hinder the gospel message from going out to the nations is to hate the nations. ii. To stop the message of Christ crucified for sinners is to hate sinners and desire their eternal judgment. iii. The salvation of every man's soul rests in the work of Christ, alone. iv. And to prevent this message from going to all men – is to hate all men. v. No, telling people they are sinners and they need a Savior is not hateful, or unkind. It is the most loving thing we could do. But do you know what is truly hateful and hostile? Doing what you can to prevent others hearing the exclusive gospel of Jesus Christ. vi. Suggesting there are many paths to God through many religions, is the most hateful and hostile thing you could ever tell someone. vii. Since the Jews have opposed God, and man in this way… what is the result? f. [Slide 12] with the result that they always fill up the measure of their sins. i. Their sins have come to completion. ii. There is a call back here to the ban God put on the Canaanite nations before Israel entered into the promised land. iii. God speaks of the sins of the people who lived in the land as filling up a cup. Or coming to completion. iv. Jesus spoke to the Pharisees in a similar way, telling them that they are filling up the cup of their judgment. v. Like when you cook rice on a stove top… vi. The starches in the rice react to the boiling water and produce bubbles. And those bubbles if not kept in check with rise to the top and overflow. vii. Burnt rice water on a glass stove top is one mess you don't want to have to clean up – Not that I know from experience
Title: “Not An Empty Visit” Part 3 Text: 1 Thessalonians 2:13-16 FCF: We often struggle identifying true faith in contrast to non-saving faith. Prop: Because only true faith saves, we must ensure we have received Jesus Christ in true faith. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to 1 Thessalonians chapter 2. In a moment we'll read from the Legacy Standard Bible starting in verse 1. You can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. Today we will conclude the thought that Paul began with in chapter 2. However, keen observers might have noticed that there is a significant amount of overlap between chapter 1 and what we've discussed in chapter 2 so far. Indeed, if you took it upon yourself to set the two chapters side by side and drew lines or highlighted with different colors themes that are saying the same things with different words – you could illustrate this quite clearly. I won't impose that upon you – but if you are up for the challenge, I'm sure it would be profitable to you. Chapter 2 has largely been put to the Thessalonians in order to prove to them that the mission to their city was one that proved to be fruitless. Paul began by stating that they know it was not in vain because it was God's Gospel at work. He continued by saying that they know it was not in vain because they conducted themselves like a family. Today, Paul will conclude his assurance to them, in that they know it was not in vain because it rendered familiar results both positively and negatively. Please stand with me to give honor to and to focus on the Word of God as it is read. Invocation: Holy Father, You have revealed Yourself to us Your people through the Word, our Lord Jesus Christ. He has come to us, as God With Us. He has come to us to save us from sin, death, hell, the devil, and the kingdom of darkness. You have freed us from the tyranny of our own wisdom and enabled us to believe in You the giver of life. God give us eyes to behold the truth of Your word this morning as we see what makes true faith and what awaits us if we are without it. May we take the words of hope and warning today in faith, and may it have the effect upon us You desire. We pray this in Jesus' name – Amen. Transition: [Slide 2] “Faith that saves has one distinguishing quality; saving faith is a faith that produces obedience, it is a faith that brings about a way of life.” Billy Graham “A man at his wit's end is not at his faith's end.” Matthew Henry “The function of faith is to turn God's promises into facts.” J. Oswald Chambers Let these thoughts wash over you as we embark on the truth of the passage this morning. I.) True faith produces belief in God's Word and suffering for Christ, so we must ensure we have received Jesus Christ in true faith. (13-14) a. [Slide 3] 13 - And for this reason we also thank God without ceasing that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also is at work in you who believe. i. It takes two sides to make a visit profitable. ii. Paul has, in the first twelve verses, explained how he and his companions did their part to produce a successful and fruitful mission among them. iii. They took God's gospel and gave it to them without unseemly methods or greedy motives. iv. They adopted them as family and loved them accordingly. They cared for them like parents, both supplying what they needed to grow and thrive and teaching them to live a life worthy of God's Kingdom. v. But all of this would have been for nothing if the message was ineffective to produce any kind of spiritual change in them. vi. In fact, without God's empowering the message of His gospel, the Thessalonians would never have heard it as His Word. vii. So Paul gives thanks once again, without ceasing, to God, that the Thessalonians responded to the message the way they did. viii. Going back to chapter 1 verse 4-5, we see that Paul expresses similar thoughts. ix. He is thanking God because he is confident that the Thessalonian believers were elect of God. x. Why? xi. Primarily because of how the gospel came to them. xii. Not in word only (ie words of men only) but in the power of the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. xiii. Paul's thanksgiving here is expressed in more detail. xiv. What does it mean that the gospel came in power, in the Spirit, and with full conviction? xv. It means they responded in true faith. Well, how do they know they have true faith? There are two examples in this text. xvi. First, that they believed the content of the message as though it were from God and second, that they received the power of the message. 1. The content of the message, if received in true faith, must be from God. a. The evangelists were demonstrating holy, righteous, and blameless lifestyles and exhorting, encouraging and insisting that the Thessalonians do the same. b. All of this is couched in the idea that a Kingdom is coming where Christ reigns over all, and demands purest devotion and worship. c. The same Lord who died to save them from their sins, will one day return to judge the living and the dead. He will restore His people and make them to rule with Him in that Kingdom. d. If someone receives this in true faith – they must conclude it is from God. e. Paul reveals in a later letter that the Word of God is hidden from those who are without God's Spirit. God's Spirit must do a work in an unbeliever in order to enable them to understand and believe what the Word of God teaches. f. So, we say that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God… which is true. But hearing the Word of God to the point of understanding that it is from God and even what that message means – all comes through the power of the Holy Spirit. g. We call this step in the salvation process – regeneration. And although the bible does not explicitly teach that it precedes faith, the scriptures clearly teach that God must do something to enable a person to believe the gospel of Jesus Christ. And He must do this to bring them out of their spiritually dead state. Since this is what regeneration is, it is safe for us to conclude that it must precede faith. h. Paul alludes to this here – in that the Thessalonians did not perceive this as a message from men – but they took what the evangelists said as the very words of God. A conclusion they could not have arrived at without the power of the Holy Spirit – which Paul said in chapter 1, did happen when the gospel came to them. 2. The second way we know they responded in true faith, is by the powerful result of that message being received. a. To those who truly believe, the Word of God produces an effect. b. We should expect the Word of God, preached, taught, read, heard, studied, mediated on, memorized, and illustrated to have a powerful effect upon those who are truly God's people. c. Warnings about sin and falling away, and pursuing righteousness, and loving God and others – should have a distinct influence over the hearts of those who are God's people. d. It is a predictable outcome that if absent calls into question the very legitimacy of our faith. xvii. So how specifically were the Thessalonians powerfully affected by the Word they received from God? b. [Slide 4] 14 - For you, brothers, became imitators of the churches of God in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, for you also suffered the same things at the hands of your own countrymen, even as they did from the Jews, i. Paul calls out their suffering in the same way that the first members of the church suffered. ii. In fact, he uses the word – imitate again. iii. This also goes back to chapter 1 verse 6. iv. They became imitators of Christ and the evangelists by receiving the word with affliction. v. Paul again denotes that Christians are the same no matter where they are. Whether in Judea or Macedonia. They are also the same no matter WHEN they are. Whether at Pentecost in the formation of the church or now. vi. There are general markers that are common among all those who receive true faith. vii. In this example, Paul points to how on the day of Pentecost, believers on Christ suffered great persecution at the hands of fellow countrymen who rejected the gospel. viii. In a similar way, the Thessalonians are being treated quite poorly by their neighbors, family, friends, and others in the city who rejected the gospel message. ix. Being persecuted by unbelievers who are among those closest to you is one way that the legitimacy of your faith is demonstrated. c. [Slide 5] Summary of the Point: Paul's primary point in this chapter so far has been to verify that the mission they had among the Thessalonians only a few months previous, was not an empty and fruitless mission. Countering the claims of their fellow residents of Thessalonica, Paul knows it wasn't fruitless because they spoke God's gospel with confidence and for His approval. He also knows it wasn't fruitless because they felt a familial connection to the Thessalonians. And finally, they know it wasn't a fruitless mission because it produced predictable results in the city. The first result is regarding those who received the gospel message. Because they received this message in true faith, they were convinced it was a message from God and were changed by this message to the extent that they endured suffering for Christ's name. True faith produces belief in God's Word and a willingness, and even a joy to endure suffering for Christ's sake. This would be very encouraging to the Thessalonians, to know that these seasoned believers were confident in their faith. But our application must cautiously approach this. We must begin rather with a need for us to make sure that we have received true faith in Jesus Christ. Then and only then can we be assured and take comfort in the apostle's words. Transition: [Slide 6 (blank)] But what other predictable result comes when the gospel of Jesus Christ is truly received by a group of people? In what else does Paul draw confidence that the Thessalonian mission was not fruitless? II.) Without true faith it is impossible to please God or be at peace with Him or mankind, so we must ensure we have received Jesus Christ in true faith. (15-16) a. [Slide 7] 15 - who both killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets, i. Paul now embarks upon what seems like a rabbit trail. ii. He seeks to expand upon the behavior of the Jewish people who have so opposed the gospel message and have had a history of opposing God's word in general. iii. Here he says that these same Jews who persecuted their own countrymen for believing on Jesus, are the ones who killed the Lord Jesus and their own prophets. iv. Paul again uses familial or collective language. Obviously, the same people who killed Jesus could not be the ones who killed all the prophets down through their history. And most likely they are not the same ones who drove Paul or the apostles out of Judea. v. Instead, Paul refers to a branch of Israel that has been cut off. vi. Paul is not being antisemitic here. He is merely pointing out a group of people who although having the racial privilege of being God's portion, have continued to reject Him as their King and Lord. vii. They are following in an unfortunate history of the Jewish people who strayed from Yahweh both in worship and in conduct to kill their own prophets and those God has sent to speak the truth to them. viii. The crown jewel in this ungodly behavior is, of course, the murder of their own Messiah and God – Jesus of Nazareth. ix. They continued their work of unbelief with Paul and his companions. b. [Slide 8] and drove us out, i. This could be referring to several instances where the Jews drove Paul or Christ's other servants out of certain places. ii. The “us” here could simply refer to Jewish believers, or may even refer to the evangelists themselves. iii. In any case – he points to the majority opposition of the Jewish people to receive their own Messiah or any who preach in His name. c. [Slide 9] and do not please God, i. Since Jesus is God's Messiah, His Servant, the Son of Man that the Ancient of Days will lift up to occupy the same throne as Yahweh… ii. You cannot oppose Christ or Christ's followers without also opposing God. iii. It is impossible for any to please God without first believing on Jesus Christ. iv. All the effort put in keeping the law, even if it were successful, would fail to please God if the person did not put their faith in Christ alone. v. And so, these Jews, in spite of being God's portion and part of Abraham's line, cannot please God and oppose His Son or His Son's Bride, at the same time. vi. But not only are they opposed to God… d. [Slide 10] and are hostile to all men, i. In opposing Christ, the Savior of the world, it is also impossible to love others. ii. To reject Christ is to render yourself unable to truly love other human beings. iii. Why? iv. Because Christ is the hope of the nations. Christ is the King of Kings. Christ is the Bright and Morning Star. Christ is the Lord of Light. v. As Psalm 2 says, we must kiss the Son lest He be angry. vi. All nations must bow to His rule. All nations have hope only in His rule. vii. All nations who do not hope in Him, will cease to exist. viii. And so, to oppose Christ is to oppose the only hope the nations have. ix. The most hateful thing you can do to humanity is to reject His Messiah and harm His Son's Bride. x. Our culture says the most loving thing you can do is to be tolerant and accepting to all faiths. xi. The truth could not be more opposed to this thought. xii. The exclusivity of Christ as Savior and Lord of all, is the way we establish peace with all men. Peace only comes by the Exclusive rule of Christ alone. xiii. Next, Paul specifically calls out in what way the Jews were hostile to all men… e. [Slide 11] 16 - hindering us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved; i. To hinder the gospel message from going out to the nations is to hate the nations. ii. To stop the message of Christ crucified for sinners is to hate sinners and desire their eternal judgment. iii. The salvation of every man's soul rests in the work of Christ, alone. iv. And to prevent this message from going to all men – is to hate all men. v. No, telling people they are sinners and they need a Savior is not hateful, or unkind. It is the most loving thing we could do. But do you know what is truly hateful and hostile? Doing what you can to prevent others hearing the exclusive gospel of Jesus Christ. vi. Suggesting there are many paths to God through many religions, is the most hateful and hostile thing you could ever tell someone. vii. Since the Jews have opposed God, and man in this way… what is the result? f. [Slide 12] with the result that they always fill up the measure of their sins. i. Their sins have come to completion. ii. There is a call back here to the ban God put on the Canaanite nations before Israel entered into the promised land. iii. God speaks of the sins of the people who lived in the land as filling up a cup. Or coming to completion. iv. Jesus spoke to the Pharisees in a similar way, telling them that they are filling up the cup of their judgment. v. Like when you cook rice on a stove top… vi. The starches in the rice react to the boiling water and produce bubbles. And those bubbles if not kept in check with rise to the top and overflow. vii. Burnt rice water on a glass stove top is one mess you don't want to have to clean up – Not that I know from experience
The sermon centers on the wise men's journey to worship the newborn King, emphasizing that their pursuit of Christ was guided by divine revelation, ancient prophecy, and the wisdom of Scripture, not mere astrology. Though foreign and initially distant from Israel's covenant, they were drawn by a celestial sign rooted in Old Testament promises—particularly those of Daniel and Balaam—demonstrating God's global plan to reveal His Messiah to the nations. Their journey highlights three crucial truths: the necessity of Scripture to interpret divine signs, the spiritual apathy of Jerusalem despite knowing the prophecy, and the presence of opposition in the form of Herod, who sought to destroy the child. Ultimately, the wise men's worship of Jesus—offering gold, frankincense, and myrrh—reveals a profound faith that transcended cultural and religious boundaries, pointing to Christ's kingship, divinity, and sacrificial death. The sermon concludes with a call to personal response: while the wise men sought Christ, God Himself is the ultimate Seeker, actively drawing sinners to Himself, and invites all to come, believe, and worship the Savior who came not only to be born but to die and rise for the redemption of the world. Published Dec 7, 2025, 03:23 pm
You are wired for pleasure. From feeling warm sunbeams as they announce a crisp morning's dawn, to cool evening walks of heartfelt talks and laughter, these moments mark us because you were made for them. But it is not only for the joys of this life that you were created; no, you were shaped for a lasting pleasure and connection. The glimpses you experience only betray an eternal hope. A hope in which the residence of this world becomes the home of our Lord and His Messiah. (Rev. 11:15). However, as you possess this hope in the face of a harsh and broken reality, every moment of distress amplifies the age-old contention with pain. How can the extensive brokenness within you and around you be a part of your journey toward hope? The apostles unveil a seemingly illogical answer. They propose that God, in His great wisdom, maneuvers the brokenness of this age to forge the faithful into ones who can carry the weight of His glory in this age and in the one to come. In this message, we'll unfold this hope-giving truth, and it will give you tools to move from hardship to hope.
Taking up from where we left off last lesson, our teacher, Dr. Mitchell continues with Matt.22:23-33.The enemies of the Lord Jesus try again to trap Jesus. Only this time, they are Sadducees. In Acts 23:8 Luke writes that the Sadducees ‘say there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all'. As Dr. Mitchell says, these were the rationalists of their day. They are the anti-super-naturalists of this day.So why do they appeal to the Scriptures? Only to try and trap our Savior. There are those who use the Scriptures, they don't really believe in, to confront the Christian with hypothetical questions in order to suppress the truth about God, His creation, His Messiah and His eternal salvation and His soon coming for us.Here is Dr. Mitchell, Matt.22:23 on the Unchanging Word Bible Broadcast.
Love and Torah—what's the link? This series focuses on the “Two Great Commands"—loving Yahweh and your neighbor. While many groups claim to believe in the Creator and His Messiah, they often hold differing views. Everyone agrees love is vital, but what does it look like in practice? What actions does it involve? In this series, Love & Torah, Rabbi Steve Berkson offers straightforward biblical insights into these questions. After finishing his study of Psalm 119, which highlights loving Elohim, Rabbi Berkson now turns to how to love others. The Gospel of John, chapter 15, serves as an ideal starting point, as Messiah Yeshua uses agricultural metaphors to teach His disciples about the relationship He desires among believers. • What is the “gap” between the Gardener and the Vine? • What does pruning mean? How does it relate to you? • If Messiah Yeshua calls Himself the “True Vine," could there be false vines? • Why did Messiah Yeshua say, “Stay in Me"? • Why does verse 15:3 mention being clean because of the Word? • What is a direct download from the Ruach? • Do you need to pray before doing anything? • What is “Vertical Awareness”? Rabbi Berkson once again analyzes these passages in detail, helping you gain a deeper understanding of what Yah expects and how you can fulfill it to receive blessings. Visit our website, https://mtoi.org, to learn more about MTOI. https://www.facebook.com/mtoiworldwide https://www.instagram.com/mtoi_worldwide You can reach MTOI by emailing us at admin@mtoi.org or calling 423-250-3020. Join us for Shabbat Services and Torah Study LIVE, streamed on our website, mtoi.org, YouTube, and Rumble every Saturday at 1:15 p.m., and every Friday at 7:30 p.m. Eastern time for Torah Study Live Stream.
Title: Acts: Finale Text: The Book of Acts FCF: Prop: The Book of Acts is about God's Kingdom advancing without hindrance, so we must seek His Kingdom first. Sermon Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to the book of Acts. There are 1006 verses in the book of Acts, and by God's grace we have looked at each and every one of them. We have investigated every thought of the author, in the order in which he was inspired to present them to us. But we are by nature quite forgetful people, aren't we? Do you remember what we were talking about in Acts chapter 10? Even if you remember what we talked about in chapter 10 – how does Acts chapter 10 fit in with the book of Acts? How does it fit in with the whole of the New Testament or the whole bible? Today will be a different kind of message. Instead of looking at a particular text, we are instead going to assume the role of systematic theologians. Rather than sitting back and allowing one thought to pour over us from the text – we will instead fit together all we have learned into categories of truth. We know, because of the introduction of the book of Luke, that Luke writes these two books to assure Theophilus that what he has believed is certainly true. So how does Acts accomplish that? How does the message of Acts connect with the book of Luke and the rest of the New Testament? How does this message relate to the whole counsel of God's Word? And perhaps most applicable, what does Luke's message mean for us? I have attempted to give you a running start on answering those questions today. I have provided an outline to you of the entire book. And today we'll look at, what I think are the 4 major themes in the book of Acts. Do not assume that these 4 themes are the sum total of Luke's message. And do not assume that after this message you will know everything there is to know about the book of Acts. The Word of God is living and active, its truths run deeper than we may ever know. I'd say that after this sermon, and the 99 before it, you'll be well on your way to a good introduction of the book of Acts.
Title: Acts: Finale Text: The Book of Acts FCF: Prop: The Book of Acts is about God's Kingdom advancing without hindrance, so we must seek His Kingdom first. Sermon Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to the book of Acts. There are 1006 verses in the book of Acts, and by God's grace we have looked at each and every one of them. We have investigated every thought of the author, in the order in which he was inspired to present them to us. But we are by nature quite forgetful people, aren't we? Do you remember what we were talking about in Acts chapter 10? Even if you remember what we talked about in chapter 10 – how does Acts chapter 10 fit in with the book of Acts? How does it fit in with the whole of the New Testament or the whole bible? Today will be a different kind of message. Instead of looking at a particular text, we are instead going to assume the role of systematic theologians. Rather than sitting back and allowing one thought to pour over us from the text – we will instead fit together all we have learned into categories of truth. We know, because of the introduction of the book of Luke, that Luke writes these two books to assure Theophilus that what he has believed is certainly true. So how does Acts accomplish that? How does the message of Acts connect with the book of Luke and the rest of the New Testament? How does this message relate to the whole counsel of God's Word? And perhaps most applicable, what does Luke's message mean for us? I have attempted to give you a running start on answering those questions today. I have provided an outline to you of the entire book. And today we'll look at, what I think are the 4 major themes in the book of Acts. Do not assume that these 4 themes are the sum total of Luke's message. And do not assume that after this message you will know everything there is to know about the book of Acts. The Word of God is living and active, its truths run deeper than we may ever know. I'd say that after this sermon, and the 99 before it, you'll be well on your way to a good introduction of the book of Acts.
It's Time to Praise Jesus - Matthew 21:1-11THE TIME HAD COME! For 33 years Jesus had come as a pilgrim to the festivals; Now He comes formally presenting Himself as Israel's rightful King – pressing His claims as Israel's King in Israel's capitol!Matthew 21:1-11When the large crowd of the Jews heard that Jesus was there, they came, not only on account of Him but also to see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. - Jn. 12:9Jesus reveals His sovereignty - V. 1-5God sovereignly orchestrated the details so that the disciples would find the donkeys, the donkey's owners would give permission to take it, and the colt would let itself be ridden on. Trust Jesus to sovereignly orchestrate details in your life as well!Now in ancient days, kings would often ride a donkey (or mule) into the capitol if they wanted to display that they were the humble servant of their people (1 Kings 1:43-44), or a white horse if they wanted to display that they were the triumphant King.Jesus receive His praise - V. 6-11The disciples probably led the mother in front of the colt, and it followed, bringing Jesus down Olive Mountain into Jerusalem on the 10th day of Nisan, what we now call Palm Sunday. From that ridge Bethlehem was also visible. Perhaps they could see Passover lambs being brought into Jerusalem even as the Lamb of God was going in!Tell all the congregation of Israel that on the tenth day of this month every man shall take a lamb according to their father's houses, a lamb for a household…And you shall keep it until the fourteenth day of this month, when the whole congregation of Israel shall kill their lambs at twilight. - Exodus 12:3, 6And you shall take on the first day the fruit of splendid trees, and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God seven days. - Leviticus 23:40And some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples.” He answered, “I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out!” - Luke 19:39-40And now the LORD says, He who formed Me from the womb to be His servant, to bring Jacob back to Him; and that Israel will be gathered to Him – for I am honored in the eyes of the LORD, and God has become My strength – He says, “It is too light a thing that You should be My servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to bring back the preserved of Israel; I will make you a Light for the nations, that My salvation may reach to the end of the earth. - God to His Messiah in Isaiah 49:5-6At His second coming Jesus Christ will return and masses within Israel will look on Him whom they pierced and convert in mass (Zech. 12:10; Romans 11:26-27). Then Jesus will rule the world from Jerusalem for 1,000 years, as anticipated in the feast of Tabernacles (Acts 1:6-7; Revelation 19:11-20:6). In the meantime we take the gospel to all peoples (Acts 1:8;, Matt. 28:18-20).
Dr. Minnick emphasizes the perpetual pattern of nations raging against God and His Messiah, a reality depicted in Psalm 2 and mirrored throughout history, from biblical times to the present day. He challenges listeners to understand their role in this ongoing conflict and to serve the Lord with fear and reverence, ultimately encouraging them to trust in Christ and participate in His global mission, recognizing that even seemingly small actions contribute to a grand, divinely orchestrated purpose, culminating in the promise of eternal reward for faithful overcomers.
Tuesday, 15 July 2025 All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father. Nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him. Matthew 11:27 “All, it was delivered to Me by My Father. And none, he knows the Son if not the Father, nor any he knows the Father if not the Son, and whom if the Son He should will to reveal” (CG). In the previous verse, Jesus acknowledged the Father's decisions, noting that it was satisfaction before Him. Now, to build upon that thought, He next says, “All, it was delivered to Me by My Father.” The context of the word “all” determines the meaning. He has just referred to things hidden by the Father from the wise and prudent but which have been revealed to infants. Jesus is saying that these hidden things have been delivered to Him by His Father. He is the central focus of the illumination of the plan that the Father has set forth. From there, He continues with, “And none, he knows the Son if not the Father.” Jesus has rebuked the cities where His miracles took place. He came in the Father's name because He is the Messiah. Only the Father knew this at first because He was with the Father in the beginning. Eventually, the time came for God to reveal Himself in the Person of Jesus, the incarnate Word and the Son of God. Only the Father could reveal this because He came from the Father – “Jesus said to them, ‘If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me.'” John 8:42 God could have established His covenant with the Peruvians or the Thai people. Instead, it was with Israel. He chose them to reveal Himself and His plans and purposes. At a certain point, He could have chosen someone named Ben Gad to witness to Israel. Instead, He chose Isaiah. He could have chosen Gibeah to be His capital, but He instead chose Jerusalem. God has been guiding the plan of redemption in a carefully set forth and methodically implemented way that ultimately leads to the coming of Christ. Along the way, He selected people to receive, write, and compile His word. The word tells of Christ Jesus, but not everyone has accepted that premise. But the Father knows the Son. Likewise, Jesus continues, saying, “nor any he knows the Father if not the Son.” Because Jesus came from God, He intimately knows the Father. They are in eternal union. The knowledge of the Father is thus to be understood as knowing the Son. Again, Jesus said this to them explicitly – “Then they said to Him, ‘Where is Your Father?' Jesus answered, ‘You know neither Me nor My Father. If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also.'” John 8:19 Jesus unambiguously ties the knowledge of Himself to having knowledge of the Father. If the Son is rejected, the Father is by default rejected. It would make no sense to say, “I want that piece of bread, but I don't want the dough in it.” The dough is the bread, and the bread is the dough. How much more is God One!? He is. He is unchanging. He is One. With this stated, His words of this verse finish with, “and whom if the Son He should will to reveal.” Jesus uses the same word, apokaluptó, to take off the cover and thus disclose, that He just used in verse 11:25. He is tying the two thoughts together – ...You revealed them to infants ... and whom if the Son He should will to reveal The hidden things of God are revealed by God. His word didn't come through the Edomites or Moabites. It came through Israel. God revealed Himself to Abraham, He covenanted with him, and continued His revelation through a particular chosen line. He presented Himself to Israel at Mount Sinai in a formal, covenant-making way. He revealed His faithfulness to them despite their constant turning from Him. He sent His word through the prophets. He judged, exiled, and returned the people at the time of the Babylonian exile. He faithfully maintained them under foreign rule, and He sent His Messiah into the world at the time prophesied in His word. And there stood Jesus, the fulfillment of all that God laid forth from the beginning. And yet, despite His works that validated His messiahship, the people refused to believe. The wise and sagacious of Israel, the stewards of God's word, failed to believe their own writings – “And the Father Himself, who sent Me, has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form. 38 But you do not have His word abiding in you, because whom He sent, Him you do not believe. 39 You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. 40 But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.” John 5:37-40 Despite their failure to acknowledge the Son and thus the Father, there are those who believe. These are those to whom the Father and the Son are revealed – “He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. 12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: 13 who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” John 1:11-13 The choice of revealing by God is not active in the sense that God says, “I will make this person believe and this person not believe.” Rather, the choosing spoken of here is in the sense of, “I will present My Son to the world. Some will believe Him, some will not. Those who do are those whom I have chosen to reveal Myself to.” Paul confirms this when he says – “Therefore, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, 20 but declared first to those in Damascus and in Jerusalem, and throughout all the region of Judea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance.” Acts 26:19, 20 Paul could have said, “I just cannot accept these things. I am checking into a hospital to clear my head and get back to my work. However, he had sufficient evidence to support his calling. He chose to accept it, and he continued on in his apostleship from there. Life application: Because of what Jesus says in His words in Matthew 11:27, and because it aligns with everything He said and that the Bible proclaims concerning a right relationship with God, there is a formula we must consider. Jesus is not physically here among us today. Jesus has claimed that we cannot know the Father without knowing Him. We cannot know Jesus, because of His absence, without knowing the word that tells of Him – You cannot know God without knowing Jesus. You cannot know Jesus without knowing the word that reveals Jesus. Therefore, you cannot know God without knowing the word. Read and know the Bible if you desire to know, be pleasing to, and have a right relationship with the God who created all things. And when you read it, look for Jesus. In finding Jesus, you will find the Father – “Do not think that I shall accuse you to the Father; there is one who accuses you—Moses, in whom you trust. 46 For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. 47 But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?” John 5:45-47 The word tells of Jesus. To accept the writings of the word, one must accept Jesus. And in knowing Jesus, God will be made manifest – “No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.” John 1:18 Jesus is the One who exegetes the Father, declaring Him to the world. Look to Jesus and you will find God. Lord God, help us to fix our eyes on Jesus. In doing so, we will have our eyes on You because You have revealed Yourself through Him. May we always come to Your word with this in mind as we seek out Your glory in the manner You have chosen to reveal it. Amen.
In Psalm 2, we're invited into the Throne Room of heaven, a Situation Room unlike any other. We listen in as God responds to a world in rebellion. Whether ancient or modern rulers, pride rages and plots against God's authority.We hear the noise of proud human defiance and then the calm, unshaken voice of God. He has set His King in place. His Messiah is Anointed. His Son is given the nations as His heritage. All who bow the knee to King Jesus, our Rescuer, and God's beloved Son will find refuge.Psalm 2 exposes human rebellion, whether dramatic or “suburban” and calls for full surrender—not just for kings and rulers, but for each of us. The psalm ends where Psalm 1 began: with blessing. Only this time, for all who take refuge in Him.Key Themes:· The World's Rebellion: Nations and rulers resist God's authority and reject His rule. (Psalm 2:1–3)· God's Response: He laughs at human pride and declares His King—Jesus—on Zion's throne. (Psalm 2:4–6)· The Son's Identity: Messiah, King, and the eternally begotten Son who reigns over all. (Psalm 2:7–9)· The Warning and the Invitation: Serve with fear, rejoice with trembling, and take refuge in the Son. (Psalm 2:10–12)Key Texts:· Psalm 2· Acts 4:25–27· Luke 1:30–33· 2 Samuel 7:16· Revelation 2:26–27 Support our mission:Your generosity helps us proclaim Christ as King and equip disciples to make disciples. alloflife.churchcenter.com/givingVisit our website:www.alloflife.church
Friday, 27 June 2025 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet. Matthew 11:9 “But what you went out to see? A prophet? Yes! I say to you and superabounding a prophet” (CG). In the previous verse, Jesus noted that those wearing the fines, they are in the king's houses. He continues referring to John by asking again, “But what you went out to see?” As with the previous time He asked, it indicates that the people, in fact, did not go out to see someone dressed in the fines. Rather, they had a different purpose entirely. Knowing why they went, He asks rhetorically, “A prophet?” The people heard about John's crying in the wilderness, proclaiming the coming of the Lord – Then they said to him, “Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “Make straight the way of the Lord,”' as the prophet Isaiah said.” John 1:22, 23 The people had heard of John's call to repentance and went into the wilderness to hear his prophetic message. Of him, Jesus continues, saying, “Yes! I say to you and beyond a prophet.” John was asked who he was by the priests and Levites from Jerusalem. His response to them indicated that he was more than a prophet because he was the subject of prophecy. Isaiah said there is the voice of one crying in the wilderness. John said that voice was referring to him. Therefore, Isaiah was referring to him as the subject. But more, he was not only the subject of the word, but he was the one to continue conveying the word. The words of John were uttered, and they have been recorded in Scripture for us. His role was to fulfill prophecy and to continue to proclaim the prophetic word of God concerning the coming of the Lord. And yet, there is more. Not only would he fulfill the prophetic word while continuing to speak out the prophetic word, but he would personally acknowledge that his prophecies were fulfilled in the coming of the Messiah, Jesus – “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is He of whom I said, “After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.” 31 I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water.' 32 And John bore witness, saying, ‘I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. 33 I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, “Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.” 34 And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.'” John 1:29-34 The other prophets of God spoke and wrote about the coming of the Messiah, but John personally beheld Him and proclaimed Him to be the One. Jesus will explain further about the greatness of John and his prophetic office in the verses to come. Life application: The Bible is the main way that God specifically expresses Himself to the people of the world. It is true that He expressed Himself through nature and creation (general revelation). He has also revealed Himself through those who then prophesied His word (special revelation). He has further revealed Himself specifically through Jesus, who is the epitome of special revelation. However, these instances of special revelation were limited to certain times and locations. Isaiah, Daniel, and the other prophets transmitted the word of God. Their words have been compiled into Scripture. Jesus came and fulfilled His ministry before ascending. Since then, the record and explanation of what He did and will continue to do is recorded in the New Testament. The Bible is the record of those things. As the Bible is completed, there is no longer a need for special revelation apart from it. This logically tells us that when someone claims a word from the Lord, such a person is either deluded or lying. Why would God continue to give instructions apart from His word? Look at the history of the church since the completion of the Bible. Those who have claimed prophecy have only brought disorder, not further harmony. And yet, despite not receiving further prophecy, because of how the Bible is written, we are a part of the fulfillment of prophecy. If you think your situation isn't of any value in the stream of church history, consider that the Lord, through Isaiah, spoke of you – “Behold! My Servant whom I uphold, My Elect One in whom My soul delights! I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles.” Isaiah 42:1 Verses such as this came when the Gentiles were without hope, separated from the covenant promises. And yet, the Lord prophesied that at some point, both Jews and Gentiles would be included in what God would do for humanity through His Messiah. Even if it is a distant reference to you, it still applies to you. Feel confident that the Lord planned and He has fulfilled His word partly through you if you have trusted in Jesus. What a comforting thought. O God, thank You for having looked upon us and saved us. While we were Your enemies, You made the first move, sending Jesus to bring us back to You. All You asked us to do was to believe the gospel. And we do! Thank You for saving us and promising us restoration and eternal life. Thank You for Jesus. Amen.
The religious leaders of Jesus' day knew Isaiah 42 and Isaiah 49 like the back of their hands. God had inspired the prophet to write about His Messiah as the "Light of the World." So when they heard Jesus say, "I AM the Light of the World," they understood exactly what He was claiming. He was the Messiah. It shook their world with an earthquake of resentment and anger. But it is good news for every believer!
From Luke 24:13-35. In this passage, we see that, truly Jesus was raised from the dead and truly, Jesus is alive! Truly, this death and burial and resurrection always was the plan of God for His Messiah.
Thursday, 24 April 2025 But when the crowd was put outside, He went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. Matthew 9:25 “And when He ejected the crowd, having entered, He seized her hand, and the damsel, she arose” (CG). In the previous verse, Jesus told those mourning the death of the damsel that she was not dead but only sleeping. In response, they derided Him. Matthew next says, “And when He ejected the crowd.” Mark's gospel adds the following – He took the father and the mother of the child, and those who were with Him, and entered where the child was lying. 41 Then He took the child by the hand, and said to her, “Talitha, cumi,” which is translated, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” Mark 5:40, 41 Therefore, there were seven people in the room at the time of the raising. These were Jesus, Peter, James, John, the two parents, and the damsel. Once these were free of the commotion of the mourners, it next says, “having entered, He seized her hand.” This is a new word, krateó, to seize. It is derived from kratos, which signifies power, might, dominion, strength, etc. T herefore, this is an act where strength is employed. He didn't just touch her hand, but He grasped as if to pull her into an awakened state. Such an act would cause a person under the law to be defiled – “Whoever in the open field touches one who is slain by a sword or who has died, or a bone of a man, or a grave, shall be unclean seven days.” Number 19:16 In such a state, a rite of cleansing was to be performed according to the next verses of Numbers – “And for an unclean person they shall take some of the ashes of the heifer burnt for purification from sin, and running water shall be put on them in a vessel. 18 A clean person shall take hyssop and dip it in the water, sprinkle it on the tent, on all the vessels, on the persons who were there, or on the one who touched a bone, the slain, the dead, or a grave. 19 The clean person shall sprinkle the unclean on the third day and on the seventh day; and on the seventh day he shall purify himself, wash his clothes, and bathe in water; and at evening he shall be clean.” Numbers 19:17-19 However, Jesus had just said to those gathered that she had not died but was sleeping. Because of this, as a person might awaken another, He seized her by the hand to rouse her. Having done so, it next says, “and the damsel, she arose.” It is not uncommon for scholars to use the word “resurrect” here. This is incorrect. This was a restoration of life to the body, not a resurrection. Paul says that Christ is the Firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. His resurrection was a unique occurrence based on a sinless life. It is a complete conquering of death. Those who were raised, both in the Old Testament and the New eventually died again. Their restoration of life was granted by God to serve His purposes, but they remained stained with sin. Only after Christ's work was complete could the permanency of a resurrection be applied to others. And that will only occur, as Paul says, “at His coming” (1 Corinthians 15:23). As for this damsel, her restoration was temporary until whatever time she had lived her life and died. But Jesus has shown that He possessed power over the state of death. In His resurrection, He has demonstrated that it is permanent. We are being incrementally shown what God is doing in His marvelous work through His Messiah. Life application: We must be careful about what we believe concerning dead people being raised. There are those who have died on the operating table but who have been brought back. Their physical body is worked on, and if done quickly enough, the life can return. However, there is a point where it is no longer possible to bring a person back. The brain quickly begins to break down. After a short amount of time, if a person is brought back, there will be permanent brain damage. There are exceptions, such as being in a very cold environment. But even then, other things quickly break down. So, stories of people being raised who had been dead for extended periods of time or who had already been embalmed (as mentioned some years ago by “Evangelist” Reinhard Bonnke on the 700 Club) are to be rejected outright. Further, people who have died and claimed to have gone to heaven or hell are not to be listened to. If someone went to heaven, that means he bypassed the judgment seat of Christ, which all believers must face. As hell, meaning the Lake of Fire, is something that will not be meted out until the end of days (as recorded in Revelation 20), then we can be absolutely positive that no person has yet gone to hell. It is appointed for man to die, face the judgment, and that is that. If you are tempted to buy the book, don't. You are wasting your money as well as time that you could spend reading your Bible. Such things are sensational, and they often enrich those telling these tales, but they have no basis in biblical reality. Stick with the Bible. It is sensational enough, and it is the truth of God because it is His word. Lord God, help us to have our thinking caps on. Keep us from being duped by people who want to get rich by spreading falsities about heaven, hell, or powers on earth that are not true. There is no need to listen to such nonsense. May we focus on Jesus, who possesses all power and authority in heaven and on earth. Amen.
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
We are starting a new section of the Bible, a seasonable one, a book for today, the Book of Revelation. The word Revelation, apocalysis, means the unveiling, the uncovering of something that was hidden and now revealed, and while it is a word that is often associated with chaos or calamities, this is only a part of its scope, The rest of its content reveals to us some great and profound eternal truths unseen anywhere else in Scripture. It will supply great details for us concerning the eternal home of those who've trusted their lives to God and His Messiah. This then is what the Book of Revelation is really about; the uncovering of the facets of our God that is so powerful that it will energize us and make us whole and confident. Thank you for joining us in this study. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1254/29
Welcome to episode 177 of Grasp the Bible. In this episode, we continue our study in the Book of Ephesians, covering chapter 3:1-13. Today, we will cover: The Revelation of the Mystery to Paul (3:1–7) The Nature of Paul's Stewardship of the Mystery (3:8–12) Paul's Concern for the Readers (3:13) Key takeaways: There is a divine plan, and Paul has been selected to be an administrator of it. At the center of this plan is God's intent to create a special household of people who actually form a home that He indwells—a corporate body of both Jews and Greeks, whom He has redeemed with his own blood. There was no generation among God's people who could have anticipated the full extent of what God would accomplish through His Messiah. At the heart of the mystery God has revealed is the fact that Gentiles now share equally with Jews in the blessings of the new covenant life with God. Christ has broken down that wall, making one new people out of two previously divided people. So now both Jew and Gentile approach God equally on that new basis. The revelation of God's wisdom to the powers in the heavenly places happens through the church. The Church is not an option for believers, nor is supporting it an option. Quotable: God is in control and is sovereignly and powerfully fulfilling His plan of redemption just as He intended it from the beginning. Application: Because of His kindness, love, and mercy coupled with the reconciliation that has taken place by the blood of Jesus Christ, believers can experience a closeness to God. As part of this relationship, God's people need feel no restraint in approaching God in prayer or worship. They can pray at any time with no fear of being turned away because of ritual impurity or some form of unworthiness. Because of what Christ has accomplished, they can approach God with full confidence The Church exists as a multiracial and multicultural community. No ethnicity is disadvantaged in the body of Christ. No one, whatever that person's background might be, is barred from membership and participation in this new community. Connect with us: Web site: https://springbaptist.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SBCKleinCampus (Klein Campus) https://www.facebook.com/SpringBaptist (Spring Campus) Need us to pray for you? Submit your prayer request to https://springbaptist.org/prayer/ If you haven't already done so, please leave us a rating and review in your podcast provider.
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