Podcasts about hostile world

Daniel: Hope in a Hostile World - part 3 " Getting Rid of Your Batering Faith" I write this today, on 9-25, what some are now calling “Dolly Parton Day”, reminiscent of the 1980 comedy movie “9 to 5”, in which she co-starred with Lilly Tomlin, Jane Fonda, and Dabney Coleman.  Since her passing last month on 8-25, much has been written and spoken about her “personal faith”.  And I've been once again fascinated by the conversations in our culture about “faith”, that her life and death have prompted. Some of those conversations make “faith” sound like a commodity, or some kind of bargaining-chip with God; but what does God's Word say about “faith”? Join me as we explore the third chapter of the Book of Daniel and see true, biblical faith, declared and demonstrated in real life! Pastor Joe Still ____________________________ Connect with us: Website: http://www.riverbluff.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverbluffChurch Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riverbluffchs/ How can we pray for you? http://www.riverbluff.org/help/prayer-request Give to the Kingdom work of Riverbluff Church: http://www.riverbluff.org/give

Ditching Our "I'm GOD" Delusion Did you know, according to Wikipedia, that nationally syndicated Radio Hall of Famer, self-titled “Charlamagne tha God,” graduated from Berkeley High School in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, after attending night school following a period of incarceration as a teenager? (His given name is Lenard Larry McKelvey.) While not everyone who has been clinically diagnosed with a “God-complex” (also known as “delusions of grandeur”) has chosen to grant themselves the title “tha God," some people actually suffer with this diagnosable, psychological malady. According to BrightQuest Treatment Centers, true clinical delusions of grandeur affect a very small percentage of the general population (roughly 0.2% to 0.5%). Though the population percentage needing treatment for this condition is very small, I fear that we have all, at least once in our lives, “dabbled” with a delusional moment of acting as if we were GOD! In Daniel chapter 2, we see this dabbling lived out in the life of King Nebuchadnezzar. It is the beginning of his self-destructive “God-complex”. We also observe Daniel's pathway to ditch any dabbling delusions that seek to capture our hearts and minds. I pray that you have already made plans to join us for this message, as we learn from Daniel how to Ditch our “I'M GOD” Delusions. Pastor Joe Still

Read: Numbers 25:1-9; 2 Corinthians 6:14–7:1 Text: Revelation 2:12-17 Christ encourages his church and warns them against compromising with a hostile world. 1. His comfort 2. His admonition 3. His encouragement Questions for reflection: 1. Are you a faithful witness for our Lord Jesus Christ? 2. Do you maintain an antithesis with our world? In what ways are you making compromises with our world? 3. What are some ways in which you are tempted to handle your money or financial affairs in a sketchy way? Brothers, do you listen to the advice of your wives in this regard? 4. Parents, do you know what your children are doing online? Can you ask your children the question: in what ways are you being tempted by sexual immorality? How can I pray for you? How can I help you remain pure? 5. What does it mean to repent? How can you put that into practice? 6. What captures your identity as a Christian? What might be the new name written on the white stone that Christ will give you?

"Living with Hope-Built Resolve" For most who read this, 25 years ago today was not a day filled with hope.  Instead, fear, confusion, and anger gripped us, and our nation, as we repeatedly watched those twin towers explode and fall, the Pentagon in our nation's capital in flames, and saw the debris field of Flight 93 strewn across the Pennsylvania countryside.  Hope was somewhat allusive that day and we again realized how truly hostile our world could be! Reading the newsfeeds on my phone this morning, I am again reminded of how hostile our world is! The 27th book in the Bible bears the name of a young man who faced a day far worse than our, “9-11”.  His name was Daniel.  On his day of great hostility, his entire nation was destroyed.  The great Temple in Jerusalem where he and his people worshipped was ransacked and burned. Many in his nation were either killed, or taken captive and relocated to a foreign land.  And that was just the first of many hostile days in the life of Daniel! And yet, he lived with HOPE! This is the first message in a new sermon series on the Book of Daniel.  Why don't you make plans now to join us each Sunday for the next several months as we learn from Daniel, how to live with HOPE IN A HOSTILE WORLD? Pastor Joe Still ____________________________ Connect with us: Website: http://www.riverbluff.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverbluffChurch Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riverbluffchs/ How can we pray for you? http://www.riverbluff.org/help/prayer-request Give to the Kingdom work of Riverbluff Church: http://www.riverbluff.org/give

Summary As believers, we are called to live faithfully even when life feels hostile, difficult, or unfamiliar. In 1 Peter 2, Peter reminds dispersed believers that their circumstances do not change their identity or their calling. They are aliens and strangers whose behavior should reflect Christ. Peter first calls believers to abstain from fleshly lusts because they wage war against the soul. Sin does more than affect our private lives. It hinders spiritual growth and pulls our affections away from Christ. Instead, believers should pursue excellent behavior among those who do not know Christ. Good character can silence slander and point others toward God. Peter then addresses submission to governing authorities. Christian freedom does not give us permission to use our liberty as an excuse for evil. We are free in Christ, yet willingly become His bondservants. That freedom should produce humility, honor, love, and reverence for God. Peter also addresses suffering and unjust treatment. Suffering is inevitable, but we should not make it worse through sinful or foolish choices. When suffering comes, believers can respond with humility and submission to God. Ultimately, our behavior matters more than we understand. How we live, speak, work, submit, and treat others should demonstrate the transforming work of Christ. Takeaways We are called to live differently because this world is not our ultimate home. Fleshly desires wage war against the soul, so believers must intentionally distance themselves from sin. Excellent character can silence slander and point unbelievers toward Christ. Christian freedom is not a license to sin but an opportunity to willingly serve God. We honor God when we honor people, love fellow believers, fear God, and respect those in authority. Suffering is inevitable, but we should not make it worse through our own foolish choices. To read 1 Peter, click here. Click here for other Michael Easley Sermons.

Scripture: Luke 19:11-27 Focus: We must remain faithful to King Jesus in a world that rejects Him because He is coming again. Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor Date Recorded: August 30, 2026

Derek Sewell | 1 Peter 2:9-10 | In the midst of a hostile world, declare the praises of the God who has transformed you.

Do you ever feel like you don't fit in anymore? In this Bible study on 1 Peter 1, Vince Miller begins a brand-new series called STAND FIRM: How to Live Holy in a Hostile World. Peter writes to believers living as exiles—Christians who felt outnumbered, misunderstood, and pressured to compromise. But before Peter tells them how to live, he reminds them who they are. Most people think 1 Peter is mainly about suffering. But suffering is the backdrop. Exile is the theme. And identity is the anchor. In 1 Peter 1, we discover four truths every Christian must remember if they want to stand firm in a hostile world: Remember your identity — you are chosen by God. Remember your destiny — your suffering is temporary, but your inheritance is eternal. Remember your calling — you were saved to live holy and set apart. Remember your family — no believer stands firm alone. When pressure rises, Christians can forget who they are. And forgotten identity always leads to compromised faith. But when you remember that you are chosen, redeemed, called, loved, and kept by God, you become very difficult to move. If you are trying to follow Jesus in a culture that no longer shares your values, this study through 1 Peter will help you stand firm with clarity, courage, and conviction. Subscribe and follow along as we study 1 Peter chapter by chapter. #1Peter #BibleStudy #ChristianIdentity #StandFirm #VinceMiller Reflection and Small Group Discussion Questions: 1. Where do you currently feel the most pressure to compromise, conform, or stay silent as a Christian? 2. Peter calls believers "elect exiles." Which word do you need to remember more right now: elect or exile? 3. How does remembering that you are chosen by God change the way you respond to rejection, misunderstanding, or pressure? 4. Vince said, "The greatest threat to your faith isn't suffering. It's forgetting." What spiritual truths are easiest for you to forget under pressure? 5. In 1 Peter 1:6–12, Peter teaches that trials refine genuine faith. What trial has God used to strengthen or reveal your faith? 6. What is the difference between cultural Christianity expecting comfort and biblical Christianity expecting transformation? 7. Peter says, "Be holy, for I am holy." Where is God calling you to be more distinct, obedient, or set apart? 8. How can Christians live differently without becoming angry, isolated, or self-righteous? 9. Why is Christian community essential for standing firm in a hostile world? 10. What is one truth from 1 Peter 1 you need to rehearse this week so you don't forget who you are?

Revelation 2:12–17 12 “And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: ‘The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword. 13 “‘I know where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. 14 But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, so that they might eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality. 15 So also you have some who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth. 17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it.'     Introduction – When Faithfulness Meets Compromise Christ Confronts His Church with His Word (v.12)  Christ Commends Faithfulness in a Hostile World (v.13)  Christ Condemns Compromise Within His Church (Vv. 14-15)  Christ Calls His Church to Repent (Vv. 16-17)  Our Response 

In this sermon from 1 Peter 3, Dylan Joyner explains how Christians should faithfully engage a world that is hostile toward Christ and His people. Scripture does not call believers to attack the culture with worldly weapons, nor does it call them to withdraw from the world entirely. Instead, Christians are called to stand confidently in the midst of opposition, trusting Christ and refusing to fear man. Peter gives two central commands: fear no one and honor Christ the Lord as holy. Although believers may experience persecution and suffering for righteousness' sake, nothing can ultimately harm those who are secure in Christ. Even suffering becomes an occasion for blessing, giving Christians every reason to live with confidence and joy rather than fear. The sermon also emphasizes Peter's command to always be prepared to give a defense for the hope within us. Biblical apologetics is not reserved for pastors, scholars, or professional debaters. Every Christian is called to know what he believes, understand why he believes it from Scripture, and be prepared to explain the gospel when opportunities arise. How Christians defend the faith matters as much as being prepared to defend it. Peter commands believers to speak with gentleness and respect, maintaining a good conscience even when they are slandered. Through the righteousness of Christ, believers can fear no man, endure suffering faithfully, proclaim the gospel boldly, and engage the unbelieving world with confidence and joy.

What do you do when following Jesus starts costing you something? In this new verse-by-verse study through 1 Peter, Vince Miller walks you through one of the most timely books in the New Testament. Peter wrote to believers facing pressure, opposition, suffering, and hostility because of their faith in Jesus Christ. His message was simple: stand firm. In this study, you'll learn how to: Stand firm by remembering who you are Stand firm by living differently Stand firm by doing good when opposed Stand firm when suffering for Christ Stand firm until the end Every day, you'll receive a Daily devotional through 1 Peter. Every week, you'll receive a chapter-by-chapter Weekly teaching that helps you understand the text and apply it to real life. Subscribe today, grab your 1 Peter Scripture Journal, and join us as we learn how to live holy in a hostile world. #1Peter #BibleStudy #VinceMiller Sign up by email

In this 6th sermon in our series (Faithful Exiles in a Hostile World) our curate Rev. Bryce Lowe looks at the call to love each other with a love born out of the gospel.

Part of the Exiled Ambassadors series. Sermon by Pastor Nathan Alley The post Gentle Courage in a Hostile World // 1 Peter 3:13-22 first appeared on Applewood Community Church.

Living in a Hostile World (vv. 3-4) Seeking Relief (vv. 1-2) The Servant of Servants and Master of Masters Discussion Starters Monday—Have you ever needed help but felt you didn't want to burden someone who could help you? What led you to feel that way? What happened? Tuesday—Do you think that the world treats Christians differently? Why do you think that is? What are some examples? Wednesday—When you seek God's help, why is it important to remember his goodness and love as well as the reality that you are the servant and he is the master? Thursday—Who sits on the throne of heaven? Why does Revelation 5 repeatedly call him a Lamb? Why is that important to remember when you come to him for help? Friday—What does patience look like when you pray? Does God usually answer our prayers on our timetable? Why not

Scripture tells us that “Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” But this concept is somewhat foreign in our world today. On this episode of The Verdict, Pastor John Munro explains this fear, this sense of reverence, and how it is the foundation for living a wise and skillful life as we see in the life of Daniel.

In the book of Daniel, we see a young man taken captive by a pagan society. But Daniel not only keeps his faith, he takes a stand and makes a lasting impact for God. On this episode of The Verdict, Pastor John Munro discusses the example of Daniel and what it takes to live wisely in a hostile culture.

Are your children ready to stand firm in a culture that pulls them in every direction? In this keynote presentation at the 2026 Montana Homeschool Convention, Zan Tyler traces the thread from Harvard's Christ-centered beginnings to today's cultural confusion and shows why biblical worldview training matters more than ever. Through personal stories and decades of homeschool experience, she encourages parents to stay rooted in God's Word and raise children who know God, think biblically, and serve Him faithfully wherever He calls them.   SHOW NOTES https://zantyler.com/podcast/203-zan-tyler   LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE Join Zan Tyler and a special guest each week for real encouragement, engaging stories, and practical wisdom for surviving and thriving on the homeschool journey. YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thezantylerpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3QmTyC3   Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3vLipG2  CONNECT WITH ZAN & FOLLOW HER ON SOCIAL Website: https://zantyler.com/podcast  Instagram: https://instagram.com/zan_tyler_podcast  Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZanTylerHomeschool  TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thezantylerpodcast  Twitter/X: https://x.com/ZanTyler  SPONSORED BY BJU PRESS HOMESCHOOL https://bjupresshomeschool.com/zan

This Father's Day message from guest speaker George Morris, State Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, explores Jesus' words in John 15:18–26, reminding believers that following Christ often brings opposition because the world first rejected Him. He identifies sin as humanity's greatest problem, highlights the growing rejection of biblical truth both in society and within the church, and points to God's grace through Jesus Christ as the only solution. Listeners are challenged to recognize and repent of sin, pursue a deeper relationship with the Father through prayer and Scripture, love and forgive others, and become faithful disciples who lead others to Christ. 

Sunday School Service

Episode 152 of 2 Minute Disciple Season 5 explores Jesus' sobering and encouraging words in Matthew 10:16–20. As He sends His disciples into a world that will often resist and oppose them, Jesus offers both a warning and a promise. “Be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves.” Jesus never promises that following Him will be easy. He compares His followers to sheep among wolves and prepares them for opposition, misunderstanding, and hardship. Yet He also assures them that they will never face those moments alone. When the time comes to speak, the Holy Spirit will provide the wisdom, words, and courage they need. In this contemplative Christian podcast episode, Nick guides listeners through a rhythm of slowing down, reading Scripture, noticing, meditating, responding in prayer, and practicing a simple spiritual habit. Together, we explore what it means to balance wisdom with innocence, courage with humility, and preparation with dependence on God. This episode is for anyone facing difficult conversations, opposition, uncertainty, or situations where they feel unsure of what to say. It is a reminder that God's Spirit is faithful to guide His people in every circumstance.

In this message on Romans 12:14–21, Pastor Ulysses continues to challenge us to genuinely live out our faith daily as believers. We discover what it looks like to pursue true harmony by leveling our pride, sharing the same mind, and choosing to absorb hurt rather than letting evil win twice.

This week, Pastor Chris continued in our sermon series Driven by Eternity with a message on authentic faith. In a world filled with pressure, opposition, and imitation, God calls believers to live with authentic faith that is real, rooted, and enduring. Through Paul's words in 1 Thessalonians, this sermon reveals that authentic faith is grounded in God's Word, tested through hardship and persecution, and strengthened to overcome every spiritual obstacle through the power of Christ. When believers truly receive and live out God's truth, they are transformed from the inside out, becoming people of perseverance, joy, and lasting impact in a hostile world.

How do you respond when the world becomes hostile to your faith? Paul faced false accusations and imprisonment, yet maintained integrity and truth. The real battle isn't external opposition—it's internal. When people reject Christ, they're wrestling with surrendering their own throne. Paul shows us that responding with character, not defensiveness, reveals Christ's power even in persecution.

Week 1 Join us as we begin our new series, Worship as Exiles, walking through 1 Peter. Discover how God has chosen and set us apart to worship Him—even in a world that doesn't share our faith.Give: https://thebridgechurch.org/give#WorshipAsExiles #1Peter #Faith #IdentityInChrist #SundayService #TheBridgeChurch

Send us Fan MailListen to a message from Emmanuel Baptist Church of Longview, TX. Church Bible Publishers produces high-quality King James Bibles that are not only beautiful, but durable enough for daily study, preaching, teaching, and life. These aren't flimsy, disposable Bibles. They're Smyth-sewn, carefully bound, and made to endure years of faithful use. If you want a Bible that feels solid in your hands and will still be standing long after trends fade, check out Church Bible Publishers today at churchbiblepublishers.com.  RG33 Candle Co. doesn't just make candles — they honor a life. Each hand-poured soy candle was created to celebrate the spirit and legacy of RG Gray III, a young man whose love, joy, and unforgettable personality inspired this company's mission.If you want a candle that feels personal, uplifting, and full of purpose — check out RG33 Candle Co. Visit rg33candleco.com and use code PODCAST10 for 10% off your purchase. Support the show

Does it seem like the world rejects God's message? This is not new. Today we'll look at the beginning of Elishah's ministry and see that his message was rejected from his first day. Yet we'll also see that this was the very work that God had called him to do. Join us! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    The podcast begins by taking us back to 1 Kings 19 when Elijah met Elisha on his way home from Mount Sinai. What happened at the end of that passage?  2.    The podcast explained that Elisha's plowing with 12 oxen reflected a custom where the local farmers would all farm together in rows. In this instance, it was 12 rows. What do you think was the significance of the fact that Elijah let 11 farmers pass before calling Elisha into the Lord's work? What does Elisha do at the end of that passage to indicate that he was "all in" with serving the Lord?  3.    Going on to 2 Kings 2, the podcast mentioned that the "Sons of the Prophets" were students at the "School of the Prophets." This school had branches in Gilgal (vs. 1), Bethel (vs 3) and Jericho (vs 5). What do these verses indicate about the relationship that Elisha already had with this school? How does 1 Kings 19 help us understand this dynamic?  4.    What was the significance of Elijah parting the Jordan River in verse 8? How about verse 14? When did a similar miracle happen in the past? According to verse 7, how many people witnessed this miracle? How did they respond to Elisha later in verse 15? 5.    In verses 9 & 10, what did Elisha ask Elijah for? The podcast discussed some possible reasons for this request. Why do you think that Elisha would have asked for such a thing? What did this request show us about the heart of Elisha?  6.    What happened to Elijah in verses 10 & 11? What was the significance of this event?  7.    According to verse 19, what was the situation at Jericho? How did Elisha rectify that situation? What principles can we glean from how God's people ought to be a blessing to the community around them?  8.    On the heels of Elisha blessing Jericho, he then went to Bethel in verse 23. What was the people's reaction to him there?  9.    In verse 24, the Lord sends two bears to attack this crowd. How many were killed? How does that fact help us understand the size of this crowd? Since Bethel was also home to one of the "Schools of the Prophets" what might this youth's hostility to Elisha indicate about the general opinion of the townspeople about the Lord's prophets? 10.    Considering that this is still the beginning of Elisha's ministry, what does this event indicate that Elisha should expect from his service to the Lord? What do you think would go into Elijah's success in laboring among these people?  Check out our Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

How strong is your resolve to bear witness to Jesus Christ in the face of mocking and derision? Today, R.C. Sproul addresses our responsibility to endure scorn and hostility for the sake of the kingdom. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ultimately-with-rc-sproul/witnesses-to-christ-in-a-hostile-world/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Loving queer kids today requires honesty: they are growing up in a world that actively questions their right to exist, to be safe, and to belong. In this episode, we speak plainly to parents, caregivers, and allies about what LGBTQ+ kids need — not someday, but right now — in a cultural and political climate that is increasingly hostile.We confront the real harm caused by silence and “good intentions,” challenge adults to move beyond private support into public protection, and name advocacy as a non-negotiable part of love. This episode is a call to action for anyone who claims to care about queer kids.Because love that doesn't protect is not love — it's abandonment.Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

How should Christians respond when the world becomes increasingly hostile toward faith? In 1 Peter 3:8–22, the apostle Peter gives believers a powerful framework for living faithfully in difficult times. Instead of ignoring hostility or responding with more hostility, Peter shows a better way.

In John 15–16, Jesus prepares His disciples for life in a world that will oppose them. Even as He promises His peace, love, and joy, He also makes it clear that following Him will bring hostility from the world. Yet believers are not left alone. Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit and calls His followers to boldly testify about Him in the midst of opposition.In this sermon, we examine Jesus' words to His disciples and what they mean for Christians today. As the world resists the truth of the gospel, believers are called to depend on the Spirit, faithfully proclaim Christ, and remain steadfast in the mission God has given them.Key Points:1. The Promise of the Holy Spirit2. The Testimony of Jesus' Followers3. The Opposition from the World

In this episode of The Sound of Economics, host Rebecca Christie is joined by Bruegel's Elina Ribakova, Simone Tagliapietra and Guntram Wolff to talk about the US and Israeli strikes on Iran. What happens to energy prices as military action intensifies and the Strait of Hormuz is disrupted? If this conflict is a net positive for Russia, what does it mean for the ongoing fighting in Ukraine? How can Europe rally its defence industrial base? How does this complicate trade and political relations with China? Even if oil and gas prices rise only temporarily, this conflict will cause lasting shocks and force a new reckoning with the European Union's energy dependence.Relevant research: Tagliapietra, S. (2026) 'How will the Iran conflict hit European energy markets?' First Glance, Bruegel, 2 March. Ribakova, E. (2025) 'Ukraine, Europe and the new economics of war' Opinion, Financial Times Mejino-Lopez, Juan, and Guntram B. Wolff. "Boosting the European Defence Industry in a Hostile World." Intereconomics, vol. 60, no. 1, ZBW – Leibniz-Informationszentrum Wirtschaft, 2025, pp. 34-39 Hilgenstock, B. and E. Ribakova (2025) 'Why Russia's economic model no longer delivers', Analysis, Bruegel, 16 July Dabrowski, M. (2025) 'How resilient is Russia's economy after four years of war?' Working Paper 32/2025, Bruegel

Topics: The Truth About the Word Pastor, Shepherd as a Verb  or Spiritual Gift, 1 Peter 5:2-3, Why Jesus Is the Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4), The Error of Top-down Authority Systems, 1 Peter Is Manual for Resilience Against Persecution, Context of 1 Peter, The Myth of Pastors Having Assigned Flocks, 1 Peter 5:2-3 and the Flock of God (1 Peter 5:2-3), How Tradition of Men Blurs Biblical Context, The Problem with Calling People Church Fathers, Why Elders Have No Authority Over Believers (1 Peter 5:3), Rejecting the Clergy and Laity Divide, Why the Word Pastor Is Not in 1 Peter, The Difference Between Prophesy and Prophecy, Hebrews 1:1-2, Why Pastor and Teaching Are Separate Gifts (Ephesians 4:11), Mature Believers as Examples Not Lords (1 Peter 5:3), The Invention of the Office of Pastor, Why the Word Office Was Added to 1 Timothy 3:1, Jesus Holds the Indestructible Office (Hebrews 7:16-24), Qualifications for Elders in Every Day Life (1 Timothy 3:1-7), Why Women Can Be Biblical Elders (2 John 1:1), The Importance of Plurality in the Body, How Ignatius of Antioch Changed Church Structure, Giving Double Honor to Mature Elders (1 Timothy 5:17), How Constantine Put Bishops on Government Payroll, Why Pastor Is a Spiritual Gift Not a Career, The Priesthood of All Believers (1 Peter 2:9), How Formal Education Replaced Spiritual Gifts, Refuting the Five-fold Ministry Jargon, The Danger of Lording Over Entrusted Believers (1 Peter 5:3), Living as Elect Exiles in a Hostile World in 1 Peter 1:1Support the showSign up for Matt's free daily devotional! https://mattmcmillen.com/newsletter

In a culture marked by division and hostility, this message from 1 Peter 2–4 calls believers to live honorably for God's glory by turning from sin, submitting to authority, and responding to suffering with Christlike humility and hope. // NEXT STEPS: http://rockcity.church PRAYER REQUESTS: https://rockcitychurch.tv/care GIVE: https://rockcitychurch.tv/give //  Rock City Church has multiple locations throughout Columbus, Ohio. Whether you're spiritually restless, new at discovering who God is or you are a veteran of the faith, you are welcome here!  // WEBSITE: https://rockcitychurch.tv FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/rockcitychurch INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/rockcitychurch

How should Christians respond when the world feels increasingly hostile?In this message from 1 Peter 3:8–22, we discover a better way—pursue peace, share your hope, and look to Jesus.

In this conversation, Myles Weiss and David Rubin discuss the deep connections between the Jewish people and the land of Israel, the trauma experienced by victims of terror, and the ongoing efforts to heal and support children affected by violence. They explore the historical and biblical roots of Israel, the challenges of public perception, and the influence of foreign powers like Qatar on education and media narratives. The discussion also touches on the political dynamics involving the U.S. and Israel, particularly under the Trump administration, and the importance of maintaining a strong Jewish identity and connection to faith.Support the show

Following Jesus doesn't remove the cost of suffering—it reveals the quiet power of compassion in the middle of it.

In a world that is opposed Jesus and His followers, the Holy Spirit has been sent to bear witness about Jesus. He testifies to the world through believers, making the church an active participant in sharing the truth about Christ with the world.

Living for Jesus in an increasingly hostile culture can leave Christians feeling bitter and defensive. But what if we're missing something crucial about how we're called to engage the lost world?In this episode, we walk through Titus 3 and unpack three essential truths for staying tender-hearted toward unbelievers:1️⃣ Remember who you were before Christ (vv. 1-3)2️⃣ Remember what God has done (vv. 4-7)3️⃣ Remember your calling (v. 8)We discuss navigating a post-Christian America, the danger of confusing the mission field with your enemy, and why evangelistic engagement is the antidote to growing callous toward the lost.This episode is brought to you by our ministry partner Accountable2You. Join thousands living in freedom with nothing to hide, and visit https://accountable2you.com/dialin. Use our unique code DIALIN to get 25% off your first year of an Accountable2You Personal or Family PlanThis episode is sponsored by The Master's University. To learn more about how you can invest in a college education devoted to Christ & Scripture, visit: https://www.masters.edu

How should Christians respond when the world feels hostile? In 1 Peter 3:8–22, we discover a better way—pursue peace, share your hope, and look to Jesus. Join us as we learn how to live with courage, compassion, and confidence in uncertain times.

Where do you go to find peace? Do you head to the beach, the mountains, the woods—or maybe your garden or a special room? Learn about the only place where true and lasting peace can be found. Study along with Alistair Begg on Truth For Life. ----------------------------------------- • Click here and look for "FROM THE SERMON" to stream or read the full message. • This program is part of the sermon ‘A Study in Ephesians, Volume 3' • Learn more about our current resource, request your copy with a donation of any amount. Helpful Resources - Learn about God's salvation plan - Read our most recent articles - Subscribe to our daily devotional Follow Us YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter This listener-funded program features the clear, relevant Bible teaching of Alistair Begg. Today's program and nearly 3,000 messages can be streamed and shared for free at tfl.org thanks to the generous giving from monthly donors called Truthpartners. Learn more about this Gospel-sharing team or become one today. Thanks for listening to Truth For Life!

Where do you go to find peace? Do you head to the beach, the mountains, the woods—or maybe your garden or a special room? Learn about the only place where true and lasting peace can be found. Study along with Alistair Begg on Truth For Life. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/163/29?v=20251111

The Live recording of the 10 am Service at Steadfast Church in Carlsbad, California with Pastor Chris Fik, January 11, 2026.

WOW!!!

What does it really mean to follow Jesus when the cost is high?In this week's episode, Jerrad reflects on the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk; not just as a political figure, but as a brother in Christ who boldly proclaimed the gospel until his final moments.Drawing from Luke 9 and his own experiences at the Dad Tired retreat, Jerrad challenges men to slow down, quiet the noise, and seriously ask: Am I all in with Jesus?You'll hear:Why silence matters for hearing God's voiceHow Charlie Kirk's final words point us to courage and hopeThe danger of being overly eager or overly cautious in discipleshipWhat it means to “count the cost” before putting your hand to the plowThis episode is a sobering call to examine our “but first” excuses and to step fully into the life Jesus is calling us to live.