Podcasts about however jesus

Jesus Christ is the most humble man to ever walk the earth.Most people would acknowledge Jesus' humility based on His treatment of the lowest of the low in society. But there are others who have demonstrated similar humility by treating the world's outcasts with love and dignity. However Jesus humbled Himself in a way no one else ever has: Although He existed in the very form of God, He took on human flesh and lived on this earth as a mere man.Join me for Today's Daily Word & Prayer to learn more.Scripture Used in Today's MessagePhilippians 2:3-9If you've not read my book, Takin' it to Their Turf. request a copy on my website, www.CampusAmerica.com.You'll be inspired, encouraged, and learn plenty about evangelism and spiritual warfare through the 70+ stories I share of my campus evangelism experiences.We send a copy to anyone who donates to our ministry, but if you can't do so, simply request a copy by sending us an email. Who do you know that needs to hear today's message? Go ahead and forward this to them, along with a prayer that God will use it in their life.To find Tom on Instagram, Facebook, TiKTok, and elsewhere, go to linktr.ee/tomthepreacher To support Tom Short Campus Ministries, click herehttps://www.tomthepreacher.com/support************ Do you want to have all your sins forgiven and know God personally? *********Check out my video "The Bridge Diagram" at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0Kjwrlind8&t=1sCheck out my website, www.TomthePreacher.com, to learn more about my ministry and sign up for my daily email. And make sure to request a copy of my book, Takin' it to Their Turf, when you visit my website.Check out my videos on this channel to learn how to answer tough questions challenging our faith.

As Bishop Budde showed the world. You can spread a false word of God and do it in the name of Jesus. Mercy and love is Jesus , However Jesus not once , did he sin , not once did he ever condone breaking the Word. Breaking the law, and gender perversion , is not what Jesus would do.

This teaching is from Matthew 23:29 - 24:8. Pastor Dodge finishes up looking at the seven woes today with an exploration of the 7th. Jesus continues in this 7th woe to convict the teachers and phrases of being hypocrites. Jesus speaks this woe about acting like they were so much better than previous generations in their treatment of prophets. However Jesus tells them they are not different and that He sees their hypocrisy. Verses 29-32 are Jesus' prophetic words of judgement over them. Jesus knows what the next days are going to bring - His betrayal into the hands of the religious establishment, turned over to the Romans, crucified. Their ancestors murdered prophets, but those He is talking to will murder the very Son of God.   Jesus tells them that He will send them teachers and prophets and sages and that some they will kill, others they will crucify, and others they will flog and expel from town.  He tells how they are no better than their ancestors and tells the judgement they will face for this. Jesus tells of His deep anguish in verse 37 as He expresses His deep desire to bring them back to Himself, His longing to draw them under His wing. In verses 38-39 He shares the desolation of the temple. Moving into chapter 24 we delve into the topics of The Temple and The Last Days. As this chapter opens Jesus is with the disciples and they are looking down from the mount towards the temple and Jesus tells them that not one stone of the temple will be left on another, that the temple will be destroyed. Today we know the truth of Jesus' prophetic word about the temple as about 40 years after Jesus spoke these very words the temple was destroyed by the Roman army during the jewish revolt against Rome. The disciples go on to ask Jesus when the destruction of the temple will happen and what will be the sign of the end of the age. Jesus answers their two-part question with one answer “Watch out that no one deceives you, for many will come in my name claiming to be the Messiah and will deceive many.”  The sign of the destruction of the temple and of the end of time is deception.  Deception is one of the clear sign of the end of days. Jesus goes on telling of wars and rumors of wars and not to be alarmed as these must happen before the end comes. Jesus tells that nation will be against nation, there will be famines, earthquakes and all these are the beginning of birth pains. So much is contained in the words “birth pains.”  Pastor Dodge will pick up with this topic next week!  Plan to join us! Visit our website here https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website https://wpww.awakeusnow.com/matthew-discipling Watch the video from Youtube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOxHZDaamNk9DaM7h7LejJj7 Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. We invite you to join us for our Sunday service every Sunday at 9:30am CT (live or on demand) here: https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service

In this Bible Story, we learn about the triumphal entry of Jesus. People make way for Jesus to take over as king over Israel. However, Jesus is not the king he expects. They expected him to sit on a throne and overthrow Rome. However Jesus is coming to hang on the cross and overthrow sin. This story is inspired by John 12:1-11; Matthew 21:1-11 & Luke 19:39-40. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Matthew 21:9 from the King James Version.Episode 206: As Jesus was reclining at the house of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, Mary came up to Him and poured a full bottle of spikenard on His head and feet. The ointment was very expensive and Judas Iscariot was agitated at the waste of money. The next day Jesus expressed his plan to go to Jerusalem. His disciples fetched a donkey for Him and as He approached the city, thousands upon thousands of people worshiped and welcomed Him with praises. He was the King that they were hoping for. But He would rule in a way that none of them expected.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We continue our conversation with Scott and hear him share about the kingdom of God and our participation in it as we simplify our walk with God in complex cities. What is the kingdom? “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15). Scott begins by giving us an overview of the kingdom of God from a biblical perspective. Drawing from Mark 1:15, Scott shares how the gospel is itself the kingdom. It is where we participate in God ruling over us. So how do we participate in the kingdom? Scott described the kingdom of God as an upside down triangle where everyone can listen and obey God, helping others do the same. Luke 10 gives us a glimpse of Jesus' excitement (and the disciples' astonishment!) of how the kingdom of God is for everyone, even the unlearned and ordinary. ‘At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children….Then he turned to his disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.” (Luke 10:21,23-24) Culture and the kingdom Scott also shares an analogy of the kingdom being like poured out wine. We need to keep in mind that our Christian culture or 'wineskins' are not necessary the most helpful vessels of God's kingdom for some people. Engaging complex cities Some keys can include: Understanding the distinction between what is simple, complicated and complex. Cities are indeed complex systems where God wants to see his kingdom emerge. Christianity as an ‘empire', ruled from the centre, can easily breakdown in complex cities. However Jesus, the king of God's kingdom, can lead each of us with his amazing creativity. We need to stay flexible and adaptive to what can help serve us and those we lead as we all live out our relationship with God. Finally, since our king's character is predictable, tools like DBS (Discovery Bible Study) are helpful since they centre around the obedience to and sharing of God's Word. Resources to help us engage further Check out Scott's blog here. Check out the 'Two Four Eight' movement website here. Keeping it simple Scott finishes by encouraging us to keep our discipleship walk simple... “Simply ask, ‘Am I listening, trusting and obeying God? And am I helping others do the same?' This is all we need to do. God will guide us when we give him space…He wants sons and daughters who are living and sharing life with him. He will work the fruit out!”

Enjoying the Show? Drop us line!What would it be like as a Christ-follower to have God say of you that you “did everything He commanded you?” It would definitely be the greatest and most humbling thing that had ever been said about you. In our mondern day, so many proclaiming Christians have discounted this story, even going so far as to call it myth. However Jesus cited the story of Noah as fact, and even used it as an example of the impending  judgement that would accompany His second coming. If our Lord and Savior looked to the account of Noah as a real, historical example of God's wrath and judgement for those who reject salvation, than those of us wo proclaim to be Christ-followers should not dismiss what the Bible has to say. After all, the Scripture says that “God commanded” Noah to do the things he did. The words of Genesis were written by Moses who received the account directly from God Himself! If none of this happened, the God is lying about his commands to Noah and all of Christianity is void. Genesis is true. Noah's story is true, and as Christ-followers, we ought to learn about this incredible man who “did all that God commanded him.”Support the Show.Visit our Merch Store to support the show!

Before Charles Simeon attended university in Cambridge, England, he loved horses and clothes, spending a huge sum on his attire yearly. But because his college required him to attend regular communion services, he started to explore what he believed. After reading books written by believers in Jesus, he experienced a dramatic conversion on Easter day. Awaking early on April 4, 1779, he cried out, “Jesus Christ is risen today! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!” As he grew in his faith in God, he devoted himself to Bible study, prayer, and attending chapel services. On the first Easter day, life changed for the two women who arrived at Jesus’ tomb. There they witnessed a violent earthquake as an angel rolled back the stone. He said to them, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said” (Matthew 28:5–6). Overjoyed, the women worshiped Jesus and ran back to tell their friends the good news. Encountering the risen Jesus isn’t something reserved for ancient times—He promises to meet us here and now. We might experience a dramatic encounter, such as the women at the tomb or as Charles Simeon did, but we might not. However Jesus reveals Himself to us, we can trust that He loves us.

Our “Signs and Wonders” series continues in this fifth week, with an encounter between Jesus and a blind man. Jesus and His disciples are very familiar with the village of Bethsaida, as some of the disciples live there (John 1:44), and they may have been expecting to come home for a bit of rest. However Jesus' reputation has preceded him, and so friends of the blind man bring him to the Healer. Christ pulls the man from the village, spits saliva on his eyes, and touches the man with his hands. On the first try, the man remarks that he can now see - but people look like walking trees to him! Jesus touches him again, and on the second touch the man's sight is fully restored.

We all have things in our past that can be tempting to return to. Sin can sometimes seem attractive. However Jesus has made a way for us to leave behind sin and walk with him. Listen along to discover how we can leave our past behind.

We all have things in our past that can be tempting to return to. Sin can sometimes seem attractive. However Jesus has made a way for us to leave behind sin and walk with him. Listen along to discover how we can leave our past behind.

As we start this new year there is the temptation to just wing it. Make things happen on our own. Approach things the way we always have. To go through this year on our own power. However Jesus final words to his disciples was wait before starting the work. Join us this Sunday as we learn to Wait for the Wind before starting our work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Bible Story, we learn about the triumphal entry of Jesus. People make way for Jesus to take over as king over Israel. However, Jesus is not the king he expects. They expected him to sit on a throne and overthrow Rome. However Jesus is coming to hang on the cross and overthrow sin. This story is inspired by John 12:1-11; Matthew 21:1-11 & Luke 19:39-40. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Matthew 21:9 from the King James Version.Episode 206: As Jesus was reclining at the house of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, Mary came up to Him and poured a full bottle of spikenard on His head and feet. The ointment was very expensive and Judas Iscariot was agitated at the waste of money. The next day Jesus expressed his plan to go to Jerusalem. His disciples fetched a donkey for Him and as He approached the city, thousands upon thousands of people worshiped and welcomed Him with praises. He was the King that they were hoping for. But He would rule in a way that none of them expected.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.This episode is sponsored by Medi-Share, an innovative health care solution for Christians to save money without sacrificing quality.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

November 12, 2023Today's Reading: Matthew 25:1-13Daily Lectionary: Deuteronomy 27:1-26, Matthew 17:14-27The foolish ones said to the wise, “Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.”  (Matthew 25:8)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Some read this parable and say “Do you have enough oil?”  Or in other words, “Do you have enough faith?” That's the question so many want to ask today in Christianity. No way, that is not how Christianity works. Faith is a gift, given wholly and freely to you by God the Holy Spirit! You did not choose this, rather Christ has chosen you! And your faith is always kept for you by God!  God in his unconditional love goes to great lengths to protect our faith. Faith can die, we can walk away. However Jesus' desire, His plan, is to keep our lamps filled with oil so we can rejoice when He, the Bridegroom, arrives. He gives us lamps. He lights our lamps. He fills our lamps with oil. He keeps our lamps full of oil. How does He do this? Our lamps are filled with Christ through His Word. We need the oil that Holy Scripture can bring. In hearing the Word, in preaching and teaching, oil is poured into our lamps so that we are prepared for whatever may come our way. At the font Christ filled you by washing you clean and warding off the attacks of Satan. At this Holy Table, where Christ enters your body and soul to forgive your sin, strengthen your faith in this difficult, fallen world.  You are given faith, you are in Christ, you are His beloved who is seated at the marriage feast of the Lamb in His kingdom. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Zion hears the watchmen singing,  And all her heart with joy is springing; She wakes, she rises from her gloom. For her Lord comes down all-glorious, The strong in grace, in truth victorious;  Her star is ris'n, her light is come.  Now come, Thou Blessed One,  Lord Jesus, God's own Son,  Hail! Hosanna! We enter all  The wedding hall To eat the Supper at Thy call.  (LSB 516:2)- Pastor Kent Schaaf is pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock. AR.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, Ky.Study Christ's words on the cross to see how you can show more Christlike grace in your life. Perfect for group or individual study, each chapter has a Q&A at the end, and the back of the book includes a leader guide. Available now from Concordia Publishing House.

October 24, 2023Today's Reading: Isaiah 45:1-7Daily Lectionary: Deuteronomy 5:22-6:9, Matthew 9:1-17“This is what the Lord says to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I take hold of…”. (Isaiah 45:1)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Have you ever seen God work in someone that you totally never expected?  Maybe the person was a nominal Christian or maybe they were the furthest thing from a Christian.  It can catch us off guard at times with how God can use evil people for His will to be done.   In the events leading up to our Old Testament text today from Isaiah. Israel found themselves in exile from God.  Another way of putting it is that they were “divorced” from God.  However, God was still at work for their benefit.  When Israel was sent into exile, God used both the Babylons and the Persians to do His will for the children of God.  Today we hear of the Persian King named Cyrus.  Cyrus is not an Israelite, he never will be one of them.  He is a pagan ruler who knows nothing about the remarkable history between Israel and God.  However the God of Israel will use Cyrus for the deliverance of Israel.  In the reading today, notice that in working with good or evil, God is the active agent in this story, no one else. Read the text again and you will see almost every sentence begins with “I”, the “I” being God.  “I will go before you,” “I have grasped,” “I will give,” “I call you,” “I name you,” “I equip you,” "I form” and “I make.”  They are all there.  And why does God take action through this man named Cyrus; for the sake of his servant, Israel, His chosen people.  All of God's actions are done for the sake of his people who he has not forgotten.  God could have raised one of Israel's own up to do what needed to be done, but instead he chose an outsider.  By the way, notice in verse 1 what Isaiah says of Cyrus. Cyrus is the “anointed one”. The word in Hebrew for “anointed one” means “Christ” in Greek. Not something you might have expected.  God's work is in unusual and surprising ways.  Simply look at the cross and see the dead Son of God bringing the Life of the World to you. In our sins we are divorced from God. However Jesus' unending love for you, His bride, placed him on the cross. He became the exiled one so that we could be brought back into the Kingdom of our Heavenly Father and the inheritance prepared for you in the life of the world to come.  In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Almighty God, in Your mercy guide the course of this world so that Your Church may joyfully serve You in godly peace and quietness; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen- Pastor Kent Schaaf is pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Little Rock. AR..Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, Ky.Study Christ's words on the cross to see how you can show more Christlike grace in your life. Perfect for group or individual study, each chapter has a Q&A at the end, and the back of the book includes a leader guide. Available now from Concordia Publishing House.

Some Christians promote a doctrine called inclusivism or openness of God theology which is the belief in “God's unbounded love.” In other words, God's great love would not allow Him to punish people with eternal suffering in hell. These same people believe everyone will go to heaven. God's arms are open for all to come to Him and be saved. It doesn't matter what anyone has done, where they are from, whether they are rich or poor, or what race or nationality they are. God's desire is for all to come to Him and enter Heaven. In that sense yes, He is inclusive. However Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” There is only one way to enter heaven. It is a very narrow road and people have a free will to choose. In that sense, God is not inclusive. There is a choice to be made. Listen as Bill and Annette share the truth about heaven and hell in this podcast episode. For more information about Bill Wiese and Soul Choice Ministries please visit us at: https://soulchoiceministries.org/  You can find more of Bill's teachings at: BillWieseTV-YouTube

In this Bible Story, we learn about the triumphal entry of Jesus. People make way for Jesus to take over as king over Israel. However, Jesus is not the king he expects. They expected him to sit on a throne and overthrow Rome. However Jesus is coming to hang on the cross and overthrow sin. This story is inspired by John 12:1-11; Matthew 21:1-11 & Luke 19:39-40. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Matthew 21:9 from the King James Version.Episode 206: As Jesus was reclining at the house of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, Mary came up to Him and poured a full bottle of spikenard on His head and feet. The ointment was very expensive and Judas Iscariot was agitated at the waste of money. The next day Jesus expressed his plan to go to Jerusalem. His disciples fetched a donkey for Him and as He approached the city, thousands upon thousands of people worshiped and welcomed Him with praises. He was the King that they were hoping for. But He would rule in a way that none of them expected.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.This episode is sponsored by Medi-Share, an innovative health care solution for Christians to save money without sacrificing quality.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Jesus teaches, someone pipes in and says that his mother is blessed! However Jesus teaches that she's no more blessed than anyone who puts their trust in HIM! Grab your bible and lets study together!

Pride is a protest, a riot, a celebration, a rite of mourning. Pride is not hubris, it is the truest act of humility.So many misunderstand the meaning and purpose of humility:Occupy a rightful space, neither too much nor too little. Focus neither on your own virtues nor the faults of others.Alan Morinis, Everyday Holiness: The Jewish Spiritual Path of Mussar, p. 45LGBT Pride is humble. It inspires people to take up their rightful space, not too much or too little. In a culture that tells us we are worthless and lesser, it is a shout to inspire people to know their value. We have a right to exist, to be happy, to live our lives with no one telling us we are wrong.I grew up hating myself. The church taught me my existence was a sin and hated by their false God. They embraced the demonic urge to hate and attack people who reject the forced conformity and lust for control and power.Our duty to Christ and God is love. Love for God, for Christ, and for one another.This is my commandment, that you love one another, even as I have loved you.Jesus, John 15:12Let all that you do be done in love.Paul, 1 Corinthians 16:14We know and have believed the love which God has for us. God is love, and he who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him.John, 1 John 4:16So let's talk about LGBT Pride.On June 28, 1969, the Stonewall Uprising crystalized the heart of the modern Queer Liberation Movement. It wasn't the beginning, but it was the spark that lit the powder keg. The next year, the first Pride Marches started, and the movement carries on to this day.Pride is the one thing that Allonormative. Amatonormative, Cisgender, Heterosexuals take for granted. It is baked into our culture. Where is the heterosexual pride? Most movies, music, books, video games, laws, and cultural institutions are designed to celebrate heterosexual and cisgender norms. Some even put in the effort to mock and denigrate those who don't live up to those norms.They assume children to be cisgender and heterosexual until they come out as something else. Our communities forcibly coerced many of us to conform to these expectations, and threaten to disown us or send us to conversion therapy if we do not deny ourselves and conform.We are attacked, slandered, beaten, and killed for being who we are. That is why we need pride. With 500 bills to take away our rights in the states, we need Pride today more than ever.Truth is empoweringToo many Christians and conservatives not only spread lies about us, but want us to live a lie rather than be who we are. They claim to be doing the Lord's work, but the god that encourages lies is not the one who sent Jesus into the world. It is the one who reveled in his crucifixion.They claim to follow the ten commandments, but ignore:You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.Exodus 20:16They can't even be honest about this commandment saying that it is, “Do not lie.” The actual commandment is about giving false testimony against others. In other words, don't slander people.As a huge part of the upside down morality, they reject science and state their opinions as facts. I am not going to waste my time and energy debunking there lies. I will let Jessie Earl to that.There is your homework if you need all the receipts.Embracing Love and InclusivityCompassion and love are at the heart of Christ's message. The book of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. He opened the book, and found the place where it was written,“The Spirit of the Lord is on me,because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.He has sent me to heal the broken hearted,to proclaim release to the captives,recovering of sight to the blind,to deliver those who are crushed,and to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.”He closed the book, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of all in the synagogue were fastened on him. He began to tell them, “Today, this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”Luke 4:17-21How have those who claim the name and mission of Christ come to this place where they:* convince the poor to bow to and support the rich* insult and attack the broken hearted* support the imprisonment of others* hide the truth from others.* and step on the crushed to feel superior.For those who don't believe this is the heart of Jesus' teachings, he says they are the criteria for judgement (see Matthew 7:21-27). They are how you tell Christ's real followers from the false ones.We are called to live a life of compassion and justice making. There are no exceptions to the golden rule.Christians have never had a full or complete understanding of justice or truth. That is why Jesus promised to send us the Spirit of Truth to guide us. He warned us against making the Scriptures into an idol or oracle of truth (John 5:39-44). As Paul says:So then, my beloved, even as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12).But what about Evil?There are those who counter these arguments by quoting Paul:Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil. Cling to that which is good.Paul, Romans 12:9What is evil? The Christian ethics taught by Christ define evil quite well:* oppressing and not helping the poor* not healing and visiting the sick* not comforting and liberating the imprisoned and enslaved* not feeding the hungry* not clothing the naked* not sheltering the homelessI see a common thread weaving through all of that.What did Jesus have to say about oppressed gender and sexual minorities?But he said to them, “Not all men can receive this saying, but those to whom it is given. For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother's womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men; and there are eunuchs who made themselves eunuchs for the Kingdom of Heaven's sake. He who is able to receive it, let him receive it (Matthew 19:11-12).”That's it. It would have been shocking to say that in his day.In the Mosaic Law in states:He who is emasculated by crushing or cutting shall not enter into Yahweh's assembly (Deuteronomy 23:1).Jesus not only contradicted the law, but turned it on its head. Being a eunuch can be good actually.I am not saying that eunuchs are necessarily queer, but many were, and I don't know how else to interpret how some people are born eunuchs. Maybe is a reference to asexuality, but it is unclear. The early church interpreted it that way and doubled down on celibacy.However Jesus meant this, it is clear that he did not judge the most visible gender/sexual minority of his time. What mattered was the love and compassion we had for others and how we make justice in our societies.If you wonder why I am not talking about what Paul thought, the truth is we don't know. He coined his own term and we don't know what he meant by it. He could have been talking about sexual slavery or cultic prostitution. Any translation of Paul that is clear is showing the bias of the translator and not the words of Paul.Making JusticeOur call is to make justice and to love one another as Christ loved us. Justice can not be based on lies. The science is in:* homosexuality appears in nature and thus is natural.* gender affirming care saves lives.Any argument to the contrary is not based in fact.There is not an epidemic of people coming out as gay, bi, or trans, the curve is mirroring the destigmatization of left-handedness.It will level off once the queer community feels safe enough to be themselves.Don't fall for lies and griftersRemember:* Gender, like race, is culturally constructed which is why its definition changes over time.* The gender spectrum is real. No one is simply Man or Woman, but have many genders we take up and put down throughout our lives.* Sex is a spectrum with males, intersex individuals, and females. Most intersex people will never know they are intersex unless it shows up in a medical test.* Sexuality is a spectrum, and not everyone has sexual or romantic attraction to others.* Untreated gender dysphoria kills.* Just because something is culturally constructed does not mean that it isn't trying to express a felt or internal reality.* Someone being queer is natural and does no harm.* Politeness, courtesy, and compassion cost nothing.* Children have their own lives and should not be forced to conform to the wishes and desires of their parents.* Humility is a key aspect of compassion.No one has to out themself if they don't feel comfortable or safe. Allyship and Liberation is about accepting the science, supporting one another, and fighting against the increasing wave of harassment, persecution, and legal threats to our existence and wellbeing.Stand up this Pride, and fight for our rights to exist. Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe

Can you remember a moment in your life when you felt unseen?  Meet my new friend Louise Goodwin who is the NoVA First Impressions Director and Sozo Inner-Healing Prayer Ministry Lead at National Community Church in northern Virginia. Who at a young age God shared with her that her life is worth living even when she felt unimportant and misunderstood. Louise talks briefly of her suicide attempt at 15 years old if that subject is triggering for you (8:15 - 10:21).  However Jesus interceded in a miraculous way and because of that Louise decided to stick around to see why."Our fight is not against flesh and blood. There is a spirit realm and we are partnering with God to bring the Kingdom of God into earth. But,we will face troubles and trials in this world and so it is going to require that we ask for help." - Louise GoodwinOur Conversation Points:Jesus brought back Louise's hope for lifeBeing an Enneagram 8 - Challenger Identifying what the lies are in our own storyAuthenticity in our lives and in our church Doing the work of inner healing for you to heal your body, soul, and spiritIn what ways is Louise connecting with God these daysGrateful for Louise's parable story and her willingness to dig through her past so she could stick around and live in the truth.  If you are contemplating suicide, please don't do it and keep fighting for the long game, it is worth it.  Your life matters. Know you are loved and please talk to a safe friend, family member, or call or text the National Suicide Hotline 988.Sozo Inner Healing Reflection Questions:What is one lie in your life that keeps you in bondage that you need to work on pinpointing?What is one way that you can spend discover how to spend some time with Jesus in a new way (ie. fasting, meditating, contemplative prayer).Connect with LouiseInstagram | E-mail  How to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together. #3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Most quoted verse in the bible is no longer John 3:16, but found in Luke 6. "Judge not".. However Jesus judges, he judges what people do. In fact he's a fruit inspector. In these verses he give an analogy to help us understand. Grab your bible and lets study together!

The idea and theology of sin is uncomfortable and easier to ignore or downplay. Most would rather label themselves "mistakers" versus "sinners". However Jesus always used the word sin and in fact, raised the bar. Knowing what it would cost to pay the price of sin, Jesus teaches a provocative message to be extreme in our handling of sin.

As Jesus continues to prepare His followers for life between His ascension and return, He tells them to be watching for a terrible event called the abomination of desolation that was prophesied by Daniel 6 centuries earler. When they see it, they're to run for the hills! In fact, they should even be praying in advance that it doesn't take place at a time when it will be hard for them to get away from Jerusalem and Judea. Jesus' followers would have been pretty shocked by this announcement, because they thought that Daniel's prophecy had already been fulfilled over 175 years earlier! We explore where the prophecy and history meet to discover the amazing story of Antiochus IV Epiphanes and the way it fulfilled in incredible detail many of the prophecies in Daniel 8 to 12. However Jesus announced that this wasn't the final fulfilment. Within the lifetimes of those who were listening on the Mt of Olives, a second fulfilment of Daniel's prophecy would occur, culminating in the destruction of the Temple in AD70. Those who paid attention to the warnings of Jesus were spared from being caught up in an incredible tragedy at that time. In a similar way, the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 24 is meant to be taken to heart as a warning for people even today. Not every part of His prophecy has yet come about. Events spoken of by prophets and recorded in both the Old and New Testaments are yet to come; and being ready to respond is vitally important. Prophecy is not just for prophecy buffs and conspiracy theorists – it's given to us from God to prepare us and to deliver us. To be forewarned is to be forarmed!

Is happiness the same thing as blessed? You could consider in our time and age that they mean the same thing. However Jesus wasn't teaching about happiness in this instance. Blessedness means something in a whole different level. Grab your bible and lets study together! www.RiverSideFWB.com

It's easy for us to live with an identity formed by what mistakes we have made or bad things we have experienced - an identity birthed from guilt. However Jesus offers us a new identity that accurately captures who we really are - an identity founded in grace.

  The woman thought, "If only I could touch Jesus...I would be healed.." Little did she know that Jesus was already on his way to healing a sick child. When she encountered Jesus, she received the healing instantly. By the time Jesus got to the child, she was already dead, and the people had lost hope.  However Jesus sent them away except for a select few, and then immediately called the child to get up, and she rose from the dead. There is no other problem that can stop Jesus from reaching you today. It is never too late for him to do a miracle. Nobody Left Out We are in the 5th week of our sermon series “Nobody Left Out.” We are inviting you to read along in a 40-day devotional with the same title by author Michael Murray. Available here: https://www.amazon.com/Nobody-Left-Out-Messes-Devotional-ebook/dp/B08MY583G8 Tonight, I want to talk to you about the sick and the dead. The Sick and the Dead This story is really 2 stories intersecting. Life comes at us fast and often we schedule one thing, but life has a way of jamming in other unscheduled meetings and unexpected clients. Mark 5:21-24(NIV) 21 When Jesus had again crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake, a large crowd gathered around him while he was by the lake. 22 Then one of the synagogue leaders, named Jairus, came, and when he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet. 23 He pleaded earnestly with him, “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.” 24 So Jesus went with him. A large crowd followed and pressed around him.   A synagogue leader named Jairus, who was not a pharisee nor a Sanhedrin member hyper-focused on his own righteousness, but Jairus was still considered an important religious leader. A synagogue is a congregation or meeting of Jews, or synagogue sometimes referred to the building where they would meet... a lot like how we use Church to describe a group of Christian believers and even the building where we meet. The leader, or ruler of the synagogue was the man chosen to care for the physical arrangements of the synagogue building & services. Jairus was considered a leader of the Jewish community and today, Jairus was approaching Jesus. Why was this respected Israelite approaching Jesus? 23 He pleaded earnestly with him, “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.” Jairus had a daughter who was dying, so he approached the man he believed would heal her. Good news!  Jairus was able to reach Jesus and Jesus agreed to go with Jairus to his house. We have heard enough Jesus stories to know that over the next few verses Jesus is going to heal this little girl… It would be shocking if Jesus did not heal this little girl. 25 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28 because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” What happened here? Where is Jairus and his little sick girl? In the middle of the story another story appears.  While Jesus is going with Jairus, another person comes to Jesus in need. A sick woman For 12 years this woman had been subject to bleeding. She had a terrible sickness.For 12 years she had sought a cure with many doctors. The scripture said that she had spent all she had.For 12 years she did not get better, but only grew worse.For 12 years she had only faced disappointment. Disappointment Does anyone know about disappointment?Have you spent years trying to get better, only to get worse? That is disappointing.Have you prayed but not received the answer you wanted? That is disappointing.Have you worked hard only to see things fall apart? Life can be disappointing. Our hearts go out to Uvalde, Tx where 19 students & 2 teachers were killed,

As Jesus' followers walk through a field they pluck from the field and eat on the sabbath day. The leaders of the religious critisize the followers and said they where breaking the sabbath. A chapter before this the complained that the disciples don't fast like they like did. However Jesus corrects them when he mentions David and how he received mercy when he needed it most. The puts the teachers of Israel on notice when he mentions the Adonai of the sabbath is the son of man! Grab your bible and lets study together! www.RiverSideFWB.com

John 4:1-30. Anoj Joseph continues our series on Jesus' promises by looking at the promise of living water. Meeting the Samaritan woman at the well, we see that Jesus can offer something more than meeting physical thirst. We look to satiate our souls with relationships, prestige or material things. However Jesus shows us that we will only truly be satisfied by knowing Him through His grace.

This Sunday, Pastor Jon began a series called Seeing Jesus, focused on different post-ressurection accounts of Jesus and the impact they had on the faith of His followers. Through Peter, Pastor Jon pointed out three things that the can enemy use to block our view of the mercy and hope that we have been given through Jesus. However Jesus calls us back to Himself like He called Peter; to return to Him and strengthen others.

On Resurrection Sunday, Andy Davis preaches Hebrews 2:9 on how we see Christ, who is invisible, with the eyes of our souls, our faith. -Sermon Transcript- We're taking part today in a worldwide celebration. We're aware of that as Christians. All around the world, Christians are gathering on this day to celebrate this awesome truth, that Christ is risen, that death has been defeated forever. This worldwide celebration is a testimony to some powerful realities. Centrally, the universal problem of death and the fact that we do not have in ourselves the resources to defeat this enemy, but Christ has defeated death for us. Death is the enemy of the entire human race and it is a relentless enemy, which absolutely does not discriminate. It stalks everyone. Death has the final say over everyone's earthly existence, rich and poor alike, young and old alike, beautiful and successful or despised and downtrodden. Any human being who draws breath is held in bondage by this terrible foe. No mighty ruler, no king or prime minister or president or potentates can confidently say, “I am beyond death's reach. I have made a covenant with the grave so that death's bony hand cannot reach me.” No one can make that statement. Neither can a wealthy Wall Street, hedge fund manager or fortune 500 CEO buy a guarantee of immunity from death's reach. Neither can a new mother look on the fresh sleeping face of her newborn child and say with certainty, "You my child have many years ahead of you." She doesn't know. She cannot be certain and neither can a young man in the prime of his health who visits the health club or the gym every day, be guaranteed of another day on earth beyond this one. The terrors of death enslave, all people. Hebrews 2:15 speaks of people who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. So if death, the ultimate enemy of the human race, has been defeated, then truly we have reason to celebrate every day. Death has been pressing on people's minds, always presses on people's minds. But recently in our experience everyday life, death has risen up and pressed in on us. None of us will ever forget the grip of the worldwide pandemic through which we have been passing and we hope to soon be through with, from early in 2020 until even this year, the lead story night after night. Many of us know personally, loved ones who have died from COVID. Others came very close to death, right to the brink because of that disease. More recently, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has pushed COVID more from the headlines with the terrible devastation of open warfare and visions of death in the streets. Recently, I saw a very powerful video depicting some of the agonizing details of the war in Ukraine and the sufferings of the people. It focused on the word "was", some of you may have seen it. The narrative went like this in the video. “’Was’” a simple word, merely a part of speech used in everyday life, but it is not that simple for us. Because now the everyday Ukrainian simply cannot say "was" without bursting into tears. This was my home. This was my friend. This was my dog. This was my car. This was my job. And this was my father, showing an older man lying recently struck with a bullet or something lying in the street, while you hear in the video in the background, an agonized voice crying, "Papa, Papa." This was my daughter showing a little girl in a pretty dress loaded on a gurney and being wheeled into a crowded hospital and her father screaming, ‘Hurry, hurry, come quickly,’” translated for us. The narrative continued, the millions and millions of fresh wounds are bleeding with that word "was". Russia has drowned Ukraine in tears and blood in children's corpses. Then the video turned, the turning point of the video. It put the word "will" on the screen and made all these bright promises. “We will win. There will be new houses. There will be new cities. There will be new dreams. There will be a new story. And those we have lost will be remembered and we will celebrate anew. Yes, Ukraine was beautiful, but it will become great.” As I was watching that video, I was thinking about this celebration that would be coming up in a number of weeks. I couldn't help thinking about the dark enemy of death standing over everything we value in this world and saying that same word "was". But then Christ in his resurrection victory standing over us and giving us a future and saying, the word "will" such as John 11, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live even though he dies. And whoever lives and believes in me will never die." Also Revelation 21, "I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, now the dwelling of God is with men and he will live with them. They will be his people and God himself will be with them and be their God. And he will wipe every tear from their eyes and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain for the old order of things has passed away." So this morning we join believing Christians around the world in celebrating that glorious future that Christ has bought with his own blood and his resurrection victory. We have a “will” that is guaranteed for us through the words of Christ. This morning, our focus is going to be on this majestic text. You just heard Hebrews 2:9 and there it says, "but we see Jesus who was made a little lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honor, because he suffered death so that by the grace of God, he might taste death for everyone." From that text, as I was meditating, the theme comes, seeing Jesus. The context in Hebrews is powerful. It's one of my favorite books in the Bible for the glory of Christ, the majesty of Christ that shines in that epistle. Hebrews 1 celebrates the infinite majesty of Christ. Hebrews 1:3, "The son, Jesus is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being sustaining all things by his powerful word. And after he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven." Hebrews 1 gives this glorious vision of Christ, this majestic being. But then in chapter 2, it addresses the burning question, if Jesus is so glorious and so majestic, why did He seem so lowly, so weak? He was born of a human mother, Mary, in a stable where animals were sheltered. He lived as normal human beings do physically. He got hungry and thirsty and tired. His appearance was completely normal while He lived on earth. Even more shocking than all of that, his weakness, his physicality was his death on the cross, the painful and humiliating death of crucifixion. The author acknowledges that though Jesus is the creator and king of angels in chapter 1, He was made for a little while lower than the angels or a little lower than the angels while he was on earth. But he did this so that He might become one of us, that He might become human like us, be part of the human family and that He might be able to shed his blood to die for us and set us free from the penalty of our sins from death. Having achieved that saving work on the cross, Christ rose from the dead and is now exalted far above the heavenly realms, so we see Jesus exalted. That's going to be the focus of our study today. Seeing Jesus by Faith We begin with this concept of seeing Jesus, and we see Jesus by faith. Look again at Hebrews 2:9, the text says, "but we see Jesus who is made a little lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honor." Faith is the eyesight of the soul. Sight is the most powerful of all of our faculties. Science tells us that we derive 83% of our knowledge about the physical world around us, by our eyes, only 11% through hearing, 3 1/2% through smell, 1 1/2% through touch and only 1% by taste. 83% comes by sight. Therefore, Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, he said, "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be filled with light." That's especially true of the eyesight of the soul, which is faith. If your spiritual eyes are good, your whole soul will be filled with God's glorious light. However Jesus went on, "If your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. And if then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness?" Another text speaks of the eyes of the heart. Ephesians 1:18, "I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened." What could this be other than faith? What are the eyes of the heart, other than your faith, the ability to see invisible, spiritual realities, past, present, and future? That is the eyesight of the soul, it's faith, the eyes of the heart. Also in that great faith chapter, Hebrews 11, the author defines faith, "Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things, not seen." Not seen, invisible things. Later in that chapter in Hebrews 11:27, it speaks of Moses living the life of faith, “By faith Moses endured, listen, as seeing him who is invisible.” How do we do that apart from faith? It is by faith that we can see God who is invisible and to see Christ who is for us invisible. “Faith is the eyesight of the soul.” The text says that we see Jesus and we see him now, but we see Jesus now crowned with glory and honor. But we have never seen Jesus. Peter said in I Peter 1:8, "Though, you have not seen him, you love him. And even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy." We've never seen Jesus. And we don't see him this morning. I hope you're not going to show us the invitation card that says,”See Jesus”, and say that's false advertising. “We're expecting to come to see Jesus and we saw you, the pastor. We want to see Jesus.” I want to see him too, but Peter said, “ you've never seen him, and we don't see him now.” He's speaking physically, but seeing Jesus physically never saved anyone anyway. The overwhelming majority of people that saw Jesus physically didn't believe in him. They didn't see him properly. Many think, oh, I wish I could have lived back then and seen Jesus with my own eyes. I don't deny it. It would've been a great grace, but just understand that most of the people that saw him underestimated him. His physicality threw them off. They didn't understand how a mere man could claim to be God. The reason was, there was nothing particularly attractive about him, physically. Isaiah 53 predicted this in verse 2-3, speaking of Jesus, “He grew up before him like a tender shoot and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and familiar with suffering, like one from whom men hide their faces. He was despised and we esteemed him not." So if you had seen him physically, but you weren't given the gift of faith, you would not have seen him properly. The physical side of Christ alone does not save the soul. To be saved we must see Jesus by faith based on the word of God. We begin by saying, “We see Jesus crucified”. Seeing Jesus Crucified This morning we're going to see Jesus crucified. The text speaks of his suffering. Look again at Hebrews 2:9, "We see Jesus who was made a little lower than the angels. Now crowned with glory and honor, because he suffered death. So that by the grace of God, he might taste death for everyone." Jesus tasted death. He drank the cup of death, the cup of suffering. The cup of God's wrath for us in our place.We see him crucified. When the facts of the gospel, the account of his death are read publicly, or you read them privately, you have the opportunity to see Jesus crucified at that time, based on the scripture.Mark's account runs like this, Mark 15, "They brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha, which means the place of the skull. There they offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it. And they crucified him. Dividing up his clothes they cast lots to see what each would get. It was the third hour when they crucified him. The written notice of the charge against him read, the King of the Jews. They crucified two robbers with him, one on his right, one on his left. At the sixth hour, darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour, Jesus cried out in a loud voice, 'Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?' which means my God, my God why have you forsaken me? And then with a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last." When you read that, you can see Jesus crucified and see him based on the historical account. He tasted death for everyone. That is for all who would believe in him and trust in him by faith. He tasted death for them because only in that way could our sins be atoned for before a holy God. Sin and death were linked from the very beginning. In the Garden of Eden, the warning was, do not eat from the forbidden fruit because in the day you eat of it, you'll surely die. The wages of sin has always been death, and Jesus tasted death for us all so that we would not have to die eternally. The real death is what the Bible calls the second death. What is that? Well, first comes physical death and it is appointed. Hebrews 9:27, “It is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.” But what happens after judgment? If you're not a believer in Christ, hell comes after judgment, the Bible calls that the second death. The lake of fire is the second death. Revelation 20:14-15 says, "The lake of fire is the second death. And if anyone's name was not found written in a book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire." So we see Jesus' death on the cross by faith, when the gospel is preached clearly and publicly. As I was pondering this theme of seeing Jesus, especially seeing Jesus crucified, I was led to consider the most famous verse in the Bible John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." The most famous verse in the Bible also has the most misunderstood word in the Bible. It's the little word "so". It is so misunderstood. Some people think it means “so much.” By saying it doesn't mean so much. I'm not saying God doesn't love us so much. I'm just saying that's not what that word means. Not in that verse. The Greek word translated "so" is "in the same way”. Two things are being compared. You're right in the middle of a thought with that famous verse, John 3:16, “For in the same way, God loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whoever believes in him should and not perish, but have eternal life.” The same way as what? We have to go back to the two verses that precede in John 3. In John 3:14-15 says, "Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life. For God in the same way, loved the world," et cetera. It brings us to the story of the bronze serpent. In the Old Testament one of the great central events of the Old Testament is God's rescue of the Jewish people out of slavery in Egypt through the Exodus. He brought them out into the brink of the promised land, but they did not trust God. They did not believe in God. They did not obey God. They did not cross the Jordan river and take the promised land. They were condemned to wander for 40 years in the desert, but God sustained them physically. He fed them with manna, bread from heaven, miraculous, that they collected every day. But these people complained about the manna, “’We’re sick of eating the same thing every day.” They should have crossed over into the promised land, the land flowing with milk and honey, and they wouldn't be eating manna at that point. God wasn't hearing any of it. He judged the nation for their complaining. He sent poisonous desert serpents into the camp, and those serpents bit many Jews, and many died. The people cried out to God for deliverance, they cried out to Moses to intercede for them, and Moses did. He interceded to God, but God said, “ I will not take away the poisonous desert snakes, but I will help the people.” He commanded Moses to make a replica of the serpent out of bronze and lift it up high on a pole and put it where everyone in the camp could see it. This message would then be spread throughout the camp of hundreds of thousands of people, even a couple million people. This vast message would be spread that if you're bitten by a serpent, you should get out of your tent as soon as possible and go look at the bronze serpent, and if you do, God will see your look of faith. He will see it, and He will heal you and you will not die. This is a brilliant picture of the gospel. God was dividing the bitten people into two categories, believers and unbelievers. The believers would live and the unbelievers would die. In the same way, God lifted Jesus up on the cross to separate the bitten people into two categories, believers and unbelievers. Who are the bitten people? That's us. That's all of us. We all have the serpent bite on us, on our souls. It is sin. We have the poison of sin cursing through the blood vessels of our soul as it were. And we have limited time, friends. In the wisdom of God, He could have chosen different serpents and different poisons. There are some that'll kill you instantly. That wouldn't do any good, right, because then you have no time to look at the bronze serpent. God in his wisdom gave a certain kind of toxin that gave you some time, some time to go look at the bronze serpent. How long do you have? He didn't tell us. So what should you do when you're bitten? When you feel feverish, when you start getting hot and you feel the poison? You better get out and look at that bronze serpent. You better look while you have time. And how long do you have? I don't know how long you have. But you're here today under the hearing of the gospel, and you have the opportunity to look to Jesus now by faith, you have that chance. Jesus said in John 6:40, "For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life. And I will raise him up at the last day." Do you realize what He's promising you there? If you just look to the Son now by faith right now, your sins will be forgiven. God will see you looking. You don't have to get up or go anywhere. You just look to Jesus, knowing you're a sinner. You can feel the poison of sin in your life. You know you have violated God's laws, you know that you deserve to die, and Jesus is your only hope. For God in the same way, loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son that whoever looks to him, sees him and believes in him, will have eternal life, they'll not perish in that second death. So that's what it means to see Jesus crucified. “For God in the same way, loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son that whoever looks to him, sees him and believes in him, will have eternal life, they'll not perish in that second death." Seeing Jesus Resurrected We also this morning, see Jesus resurrected. How do you do that? The same way, by reading the accounts of the empty tomb. We get to see the accounts of Jesus showing himself to his beloved disciples. We get to see it by faith when we read the account of John 20, for example, verses 1-8, "Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved and said they have taken the Lord out of the tomb and we don't know where they have put him. So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there, but did not go in. Then Simon Peter who was behind him arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus' head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen. Finally, the other disciple who had reached the tomb first also went inside. He saw and believed.” What did he see? He saw the physical evidence of the bodily resurrection of Jesus. He saw the stone had been moved away from the entrance to the tomb. He saw that there was no body in the tomb. He saw the grave clothes lying, wholly undisturbed in their original position with that sticky resonance, aromatic spices and the myrrh and all that, in which Joseph of Arimathea had wrapped Jesus. It was all there. The head cloth folded up in an orderly way off to the side. This is no work of a grave robber, all of the physical evidence spoke to resurrection, and John was convinced. He saw the physical evidence and believed. His faith at that moment was based on what he saw with his eyes. But then he knew very well, and God especially knew well, that all of us coming centuries later would not have the same privilege. I don't know how long it took Jesus' Jewish adversaries to destroy all the physical evidence, get rid of it, gone. I would say later that day maybe. The opportunity was gone. It would never be again to actually see the physical evidence. John adds in the very next verse, “ They still did not understand from scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.” By scripture alone we see the physical evidence of Jesus' bodily resurrection. Now you can say, “but pastor, I know I can buy a ticket, a plane ticket to Jerusalem and I can go on a tour. They'll show me the empty tomb.” Do you believe that? Well, which one are you going to go to? I think there's like four of them. And I don't know what to believe if I go see some empty hole somewhere. It's not going to convince me of anything. Frankly, you're going to read the Bible and the accounts of Jesus' resurrection and you'll believe or not based on the scripture. That's why John wrote John 20:9, "They still did not understand from scripture that Christ had to rise from the dead." Later we had that even better evidence, which is an actual physical appearance of Jesus before his beloved disciples. John 20:19-20, "On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, 'Peace, be with you!' After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord." I wasn't there at the time, and neither were any of you. Oh, neither was Thomas. He should have been, but he wasn't. So Jesus comes a week later to convince doubting Thomas of his bodily resurrection. The account is in John 20:24-29, "Now Thomas called Didymus one of the twelve was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him 'we have seen the Lord.' But he said to them, 'Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it.' A week later the disciples were in the house again and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked Jesus came and stood among them and said, 'Peace, be with you.' Then he said to Thomas, 'Put your finger here, see my hands, reach out your hand, put it into my side, stop, doubting and believe.' And Thomas said to him, 'My Lord and my God.' Then Jesus told him, because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are they who have not seen and yet have believed." All of you who are genuine Christians, born again through the power of the spirit are in that category. You have not seen, and yet you believe. You believe that Christ has been raised from the dead. On what basis? Scripture. You read it, and you believe it. There is no other basis to see Jesus resurrected. Seeing Jesus Crowned Thirdly, we see Jesus crowned. That's what the text says. Hebrews 2:9, "We see Jesus who was made a little lower than the angels now crowned with glory and honor, because he suffered death so that by the grace of God, he might taste death for everyone." Once Jesus' humiliation was finished, God exalted his Son to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name. Christ's present exaltation can only be seen by faith. By reading scripture, we're told amazing things about the present exaltation of Jesus. Scripture probes into the invisible heavenly realms to tell us some things we would have no other knowing. So this is the only source of our heavenly vision, the feeding of our faith by scriptural truth, the same way. “By reading scripture, we're told amazing things about the present exaltation of Jesus. Scripture probes into the invisible heavenly realms to tell us some things we would have no other knowing. So this is the only source of our heavenly vision…” What do we learn about Jesus' present exultation? Go back to the first verse I quoted from Hebrews, Hebrews 1:3 which says, "Jesus is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being sustaining all things by his powerful word.After he had provided purification for sin, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven." That's Jesus' present exaltation. He is sitting down at the right hand of God. Ephesians 1 teaches the same thing, v. 20-23, "God raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given not only in the present age, but also in the age to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way." It's incredible! Jesus is at the right hand of God, ruling the universe. All the powers and principalities and authorities and spheres of influence, both among humans and angels and demons, all the seats of power there are in heaven and on earth are under Jesus's authority. Vastly under his authority, so that if they all combined together in one vast rebellion against Christ and sought to topple him from his throne, they must fail before the tidal wave of his omnipotence. That's the infinite greatness of Jesus's present exaltation. As God the Father said in Psalm 110, "The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand until I make all your enemies a footstool for your feet. The Lord will extend your mighty scepter from Zion. You will rule in the midst of your enemies." God, the Father has been doing that. After Jesus' death, resurrection and ascension, He said, “Sit down next to me and watch what I'm going to do.” By the power of the Spirit, He then makes his enemies transformed into friends, worshipers, or crushed by his sovereign power in his own good time. Those are the two options. Isn't it wonderful that we who are Christians were at one point God's enemies by our rebellion and our sins and our violation of his laws, but now in Romans 5:10, "When we were God's enemies, we were reconciled through the death of his Son." We're not enemies anymore. This is the majestic and powerful work going on all over the world. Christ is winning his former enemies over, and He's melting their hard hearts and bringing them, sweetly and submissively, under his kingly authority. We're glad that He's our king, glad to do His will and to serve him. Christ's future exaltation is going to be obvious for all to see, we won't need faith for that one. Now is the time of faith, this is the era of faith. This is where you come to church, Easter Sunday, and you have a pastor saying, “We see Jesus.” It's like, hmm, interesting. I'm telling you when He comes in glory, you won't need faith to see Him. You won't need faith at all. The era of faith will have ended. Matthew 24:27, "As lightning that comes from the east is visible even in the west. So will be the coming of the Son of Man." Everyone's going to see it. Then Revelation 1:7 says, "Behold, he is coming with the clouds and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him; and all peoples on earth will mourn because of him. So shall it be! Amen." That's the second coming of Christ, no faith needed. But now's the time for faith. Now's the time through faith to have your sins forgiven while there's time. Seeing Jesus Now and Continually Finally, we see Jesus now and we see him continually. So to all guests, I have already strongly urged you to look to Christ while there's time. I hope you can see the evidence of the snake bite in your life, just understand God's laws. Understand that you're commanded to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and your neighbor as yourself, and you don't. Understand that God commanded you in his Ten Commandments, many things, and you violate them all, in your hearts and perhaps even with your bodies, you've broken God's laws. The poison of sin is coursing through the veins of your soul, and you have a limited time. Look to Jesus now while there's time. It's all you need do. What did the thief on the cross do but look to Jesus and see him as a coming king? Just look to Jesus and your sins will be forgiven. “You need to feed the eyesight of your soul by taking in God's word.” Now for all of us who are believers. We're not done looking to Jesus. We still need to look to him. Our faith is a living thing and that living thing needs constant food. You need to feed the eyesight of your soul by taking in God's word. Our vision of Christ can get pretty cloudy sometimes. Like the blind man that Jesus healed in stages in Mark chapter 8, “I see people, they look like trees walking around. And then once more Jesus put his hands on the man's eyes and then his eyes are open and he could see everything clearly.” So it is with us. We need to look to Jesus again and again daily, by taking in God's word and feeding on it. You can see Jesus by faith. At an unusually early age I had cataracts, cloudiness of vision in both my eyes. I ride a bike for exercise. I also listen to earbuds. So one day I was climbing up a hill, deaf through the ear with earbuds and pseudo blind, through my cataracts. I looked over my left shoulder, didn't see anything, coast was clear. I crossed the road, the car missed me by feet I think. I would want to say by inches, I felt the whoosh as it went by me. I needed to do something about these cataracts. The car was right in the center of one of them, I guess, I never heard anything, never saw anything. That's what we can get through sin and through unbelief. Even as Christians, we can get a cloudy vision. We just don't see Christ the way we need to. The author of Hebrews commands us to look to Jesus, to look to him, to persevere in our marathon race of faith, Hebrews 12, it says, "Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. Who for the joy set before him endured the cross scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God." We're supposed to look to Jesus every day, throw off the weights and the nets of sin that are entangling us, as we run this race with endurance. As I already mentioned in Hebrews 11:27, "Moses persevered as seeing him who is invisible." Christian brother and sister, run your race every day as seeing him who is invisible. Enoch walked with God, and then he was no more, for God took him. Enoch walked with God by seeing him who is invisible. Joseph was tempted by Potiphar's wife, day after day. “Come lie with me, come lie with me.” She pulled on him and tempted him and tried to seduce him. And Joseph said, "How could I do this and sin, commit this great sin against God?" He could see the invisible God seeing him, and he could not sin. Job said, "I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a girl for God sees my every way and counts my every step." That's what it means to see Him who is invisible. Jacob had a dream at Bethel of heaven open and a stairway with angels ascending and descending. When he woke up, he said, "How awesome is this place? Surely God was here and I did not know it.” How many days do we as Christians live like that? God is here and we did not know it. I'm urging you to keep looking to Jesus. Romans 10:17 says, "Faith comes by hearing the word." As you hear, you see, and you see Jesus, you see him as the one who is invisible and you live a holy life, that's pleasing to God. Close with me in prayer. Father, we thank you for the time we've had to see Jesus this morning in the scripture. Thank you for the joy of this day. Thank you for the joy of Christian fellowship that we get to band together and celebrate and urge one another on to be joyful. Lord, help us to see Jesus by scriptural intake, day after day and by faith, being developed. And, oh Lord, I pray that there wouldn't be a single person here under the hearing of the gospel that would walk out of this place now unconverted. But instead that their sins have been forgiven through simple faith, trusting in Jesus. In his name we pray. Amen.

3 “virgins in the valley” recount and analyze Sex Ed (or lack thereof) in catholic school. highlights include: chastity class & absolute fuckery

Minister Paula Farlin brings across the importance and celebratory of Palm Sunday. She takes us through scriptures and events leading up to that fateful day. However Jesus had to fulfill the Prophecy as told by Zechariah 9:9 where it says Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you, righteous and having salvation is He, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt,the foal of a donkey. But for a moment lets look at the crowds they cheer they shout they in jubilee screaming Hosanna in the Highest. Welcome to our city, yet amongst them are the deceivers, the plotters the scammers the masterminds...and so they walk to meet Him yet no sooner the Welcome, days thereafter came the sorrow, came the tyranny with Nail him cruxify him, you see. So yes, unfortunately amongst you and me this very day are those who are with you, yet plotting and scheming in their hearts. So, as the crowds reacted and received Jesus could see. So join Into The Garden today as we shift our focus on Palm Sunday brought to you by Minister Paula Farlin and a short segment on Holistically managing Mental Illness. So here's hoping you sit back, kick off your shoes relax as God ministers to you.

There is often duplicity between something's appearance and its true substance. Sometimes there is a disconnect between what we claim to be and what we actually are. When it comes to Christianity, this equates to hypocrisy. The Church at Sardis and Laodicea both had a great reputation. Sardis was recognized as a thriving, booming church. Laodicea was renown for doing great things and offering lots to its community. However Jesus reveals to them that their hearts were not in line with their professions and reputations. In this message, we talk about the nature of an apocalypse, meant to reveal what is often hidden or covered up. God's Word is constantly presenting an apocalyptic opportunity to us so that nothing remains in darkness. When God reveals to us something that needs to change, He gives us the ability to make those changes. Sardis and Laodicea may have drifted far from their confession, but Jesus was lovingly pursuing and waiting for them to return to Him. Likewise, He stands at the door of our hearts and knocks, bidding us to come back to Him.

Hebrews presents Jesus as God's definitive speech act-- as the speech in human form. Superior to angels and the exact imprint of Divine glory. However Jesus isn't merely a model for us to aspire to. He came to accomplish a mission and, with that mission accomplished, he now sits at the right hand of the Father.  It is in focusing on this that that mission works its way into us and we are prepared for glory.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TcCV1Tsvgb3G0_de9dLSG1C0Q9j_KSzNtemnpFiCAao/edit?usp=sharing

In today's podcast, Pastor Bryn Waddell walks us through the story of the paralytic man in Matthew 9. Wanting what any paralytic would want, he desired to be healed. However Jesus, instead of leading with displays of power, leads with authority. He brings internal order so that he can have external order. Do not reject the internal reordering of Jesus! It leads to external order. We love you! We hope you enjoy today's message!

In Hebrews we learn that Jesus is everlasting, never changing, always the same. However we are not. In this episode of At The River we hear how people compromise on Jesus and worship based on the current situation around them. Sometimes it's not convenient to worship, covid, worry, weather, anxiety or even government can make us put our worship on the back burner. However Jesus isn't changing. This should empower you and cause you to walk boldly in your Christian walk! Grab your bible and study with us!! www.RiverSideFWB.com

1 Kings 4:20-34 ESV 20 Judah and Israel were as many as the sand by the sea. They ate and drank and were happy. 21 Solomon ruled over all the kingdoms from the Euphrates to the land of the Philistines and to the border of Egypt. They brought tribute and served Solomon all the days of his life. 22 Solomon's provision for one day was thirty cors of fine flour and sixty cors of meal, 23 ten fat oxen, and twenty pasture-fed cattle, a hundred sheep, besides deer, gazelles, roebucks, and fattened fowl. 24 For he had dominion over all the region west of the Euphrates from Tiphsah to Gaza, over all the kings west of the Euphrates. And he had peace on all sides around him. 25 And Judah and Israel lived in safety, from Dan even to Beersheba, every man under his vine and under his fig tree, all the days of Solomon. 26 Solomon also had 40,000 stalls of horses for his chariots, and 12,000 horsemen. 27 And those officers supplied provisions for King Solomon, and for all who came to King Solomon's table, each one in his month. They let nothing be lacking. 28 Barley also and straw for the horses and swift steeds they brought to the place where it was required, each according to his duty. 29 And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding beyond measure, and breadth of mind like the sand on the seashore, 30 so that Solomon's wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the people of the east and all the wisdom of Egypt. 31 For he was wiser than all other men, wiser than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, Calcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol, and his fame was in all the surrounding nations. 32 He also spoke 3,000 proverbs, and his songs were 1,005. 33 He spoke of trees, from the cedar that is in Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of the wall. He spoke also of beasts, and of birds, and of reptiles, and of fish. 34 And people of all nations came to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and from all the kings of the earth, who had heard of his wisdom. THE GLORY OF KING SOLOMON. The kingdom of Solomon had reached to its zenith politically, militarily and economically. “Judah and Israel were as many as the sand by the sea. They ate and drank and were happy. Solomon ruled over all the kingdoms from the Euphrates to the land of the Philistines and to the border of Egypt. They brought tribute and served Solomon all the days of his life.” [v.20,21] “For he had dominion over all the region west of the Euphrates from Tiphsah to Gaza, over all the kings west of the Euphrates. And he had peace on all sides around him. And Judah and Israel lived in safety, from Dan even to Beersheba, every man under his vine and under his fig tree, all the days of Solomon.” [v.24,25] He was most famous as the wisest king in all of the east including Egypt.[see v.30]. Thus, people of all nations came to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and from all the kings of the earth, who had heard of his wisdom. [v.34] Indeed, the glory and magnificence of King Solomon was undeniable that the Queen of Sheba came from the “ends of the earth” to see. Yet, Jesus, referring to himself, said, “Behold, something greater than Solomon is here.” [Matt 12:42b] John exclaimed, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” [John 1:14] And instead of chasing after Solomon's fame and glory, we should glory in the way God had esteemed each one of us uniquely. Solomon was clothed in the best finery in the world and his kingdom flowed with gold and silver. He lived in great luxury. However Jesus says, “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.”[Matt 6:28,29]. e sees the splendor of the lilies' beauty surpasses even Solomon's, though they do nothing to put it on. You and I are more glorious in the sight of God.

Do you feel defeated in this season? Do you doubt yourself and feel you don’t have what it takes to stand against opposition? Pastor Adam Smallcombe unpacks a powerful word about an epic battle between good and evil. For 40 days Jesus was fasting in the wilderness and was tempted by the devil. However Jesus had more than bars, he had verses. Scripture that was wielded like a sword to defeat the enemy. What THEY (the enemy & powers of darkness) don’t want you to know is the word of God. But when you get the word of life on the inside of you, you can take on any battle.

Peace at all levels remains one of the greatest needs of the world today. Peace is a gift that we all need to receive every day of our lives. Maybe more than ever you need a lot of peace in your heart and mind this Christmas after what has been a very difficult and stressful year for so many. The good news of the Christian and Christmas message is that the coming of Jesus into our world means that we can experience a peace that passes all human understanding.Jesus is called ‘the Prince of Peace' by the prophet Isaiah in Isaiah 9:6. When He was born Luke 2:13 says that: ‘Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men on whom His favour rests."' You too can come to a new experience of peace this Christmas.1. You can know the peace of Godi. You can know peace in your heart (John 14:27; Mark 4:39; Philippians 4:7)ii. You can know peace in your home 2. You can make your peace with God (Colossians 1:20)3. You can be an agent of peace for God (2 Corinthians 5:19; Matthew 5:9; Galatians 3:26,28)ApplyDo you have the peace of God in your heart and in your home? So many people are stressed and agitated today. Stress causes great emotional, relational and physical damage. However Jesus said that we can know inner calm at all times (John 14:27). Jesus brought peace to a man tormented by demons, He spoke words of peace and healing to the sick and suffering, and Jesus brought calm and comfort to the disciples when they thought they were going to drown in a huge storm (Mark 4:39). In just one moment they went from total panic to total peace. Because Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever, we know that what Jesus did for his disciples, He can also do for us. Whatever storm and stress you are experiencing, you can know the peace and presence of God in your own heart and mind (Philippians 4:7). This peace can also bring peace to our homes. Family breakup is at epidemic levels in today's society and even when families are together there can often be visible or hidden conflict between children, parents and partners. But it doesn't have to be this way. When the Prince of Peace comes into your home then anger, bitterness and hatred all have to go. You can all learn to appreciate each other. You can know love and joy and peace in your family. If your family is in a great place, then thank God and keep developing your relationships. But if your family is struggling, don't give up. God's peace can come to any home and it takes just one member of the home to have the peace for that peace to spread.Do you live at peace with God? Lasting inner peace does not come through pleasure, power, possessions or drink or drugs. You may have a God-sized gap in your life. Maybe you never realised it or maybe you did and ran away from it. But either way making your peace with God is the biggest and best decision you will ever make in your life. The Bible teaches not only that is there is a God but also that Jesus alone can bring us into fellowship with God. Jesus came to give his life to pay the price of our sins that separate us from God, and to reconcile us to God (Colossians 1:20). Whatever wrong you have been guilty of in word or thought or deed or relationship, you can be sorted out when you seek God for His mercy and forgiveness. When you get your relationship with God in order, all other relationships fall into place. Are you willing to be an agent of peace for God? God wants to use you to bring His peace to others (2 Corinthians 5:19 and Matthew 5:9). Real peace can't be achieved just through politics and laws. True and lasting peace can only be achieved when there is peace in the hearts of people. Jesus came to bring us that peace by bringing back together relationships that have been pulled apart. As followers of Christ we must be clear that there should be no divisions and discrimination because of race, ethnic background, gender, age or social and economic status (Galatians 3:26,28). As Christians, in a world of anger, agitation and anti-Semitism, we should be agents of reconciliation and promoters of peace. We must be part of the answer not part of the problem. Nelson Mandela said 'the first thing is to be honest with yourself. You can never have an impact on society if you have not changed yourself... Great peacemakers are all people of integrity, of honesty, but humility.' Never was that humility more evident than when God's own son came to earth as a baby. The Prince of Peace came to establish a reign of peace and you can be part of this. Today you can know the peace of God. You can make your peace with God and you can become a world-changing agent of peace for God.

Sometimes we see it coming and at other times we don’t. Death is something we’d prefer ‘over the horizon’ and out of sight. But it is always lurking. It can shrivel life and make people very afraid. However Jesus can help us deal with death when...

"However Jesus said it, we can doubt the number he used mattered that much. The point is the interplay: the two-way dynamic between the gathering of God's people and the presence of God's authority and power." Rev. Patrick Hunnicutt preaches on the Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, in celebration of World Communion Sunday. The Scripture lesson is Matthew 18:15-20.

Reading by Jason Christopher Stedy (Jakarta, Indonesia) and meditation by Manette Maturan (Jakarta, Indonesia) DON'T ENJOY INDIFFERENCE The theme of our meditation today is: Don't Enjoy Indifference. The term "indifference" which is common in our conversations to indicate lack of attention, ignorance, or carelessness, describes something that is part of our natural human weakness. If we are indifferent to our relatives or friends, for sure this will make them angry or offended. The Lord will also be disappointed if His people are indifferent of Him. Jesus himself sent by the Father to be the Savior of the world, faced the indifference of those around Him. He considered them as a generation that was indifferent and ignorant. They simply fooled themselves because of their stupidity. The long-promised Lord who already came and was present in their midst, yet they were blind in their hearts, minds and eyes. Therefore, they could not hear him and they rejected Him. They were described like children who were in joyful moment to play music, but people around were not happy in joining the singing and dancing. They were like children who were mourning and in sadness, but the people around them did not feel sad with them. Indifference is an attitude that shows no response or no sympathy. When you are not being responded to, it is like you are facing a stone or a wall. This really hurts your more painful than when you receive a negative answer or response. The answers such as "no" or "sorry I have no time to answer you", are enough for you to understand they are the negative answers. But if there is no certainty because people are indifferent or having no attention of you, this is precisely an attitude that is so cruel and it's very contrary to faith. It is true to say that faith really needs response. However Jesus did not find this in those who met and heard Him. He was very disappointed and He strongly criticized them. This same attitude exists also within our Church and in the relationships between the believers. People are often indifferent, uncare or insensitive to the advices, suggestions, input or critics for improvement. This will lead them to repeat the same habits and mistakes that they have been struggling to overcome. If people ignore and do not care about God's Word and His commandments, they will be far from God's blessings and mercy. Indifference is really against love. When the Lord says that He is present in the little, poor and sick ones, the virtue of love demands that they should be given care or attention. However, if His followers are ignorant and indifferent, they actually hurt God and insult their neigbors as well. So today we are reminded not to be indifferent or careless. Let's pray. In the name of the Father ... O Lord Jesus, make us people who always care and ready to take part in the improvement and development of our lives as Your beloved people. Our Father who art in heaven ... In the name of the Father ... --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/media-la-porta/message

Ever since Jesus commanded His disciples to go and share the good news, Christians have been hated for doing so throughout the ages. However Jesus did say they'll hate you because they hate Me. Nevertheless, this doesn't mean you shouldn't share what is truly GOOD news! And now more than ever, people need to know there's hope beyond this failing rotting world. Pastor Mark will encourage you to simply do what He's asked and trust Him to work through you!

Who of us haven't felt lonely at some point, but have you ever felt abandoned by friends or family? There's lots of emotions tied to feeling lonely, left out, abandoned or forsaken. However Jesus will never leave you nor forsake you! Yet how many people turn to the world to have that empty feeling filled only to feel even emptier in the end? Pastor Mark will remind us emphatically that only Jesus can satisfy our deepest needs of belonging and acceptance. You have everything you could ever desire in the person of Jesus!

We are so excited that you are joining us for Easter online! In this sermon, we'll be wrapping up our "Jesus Is" series by focusing on the resurrection of Jesus and its implications. Jesus is all for us, and he proved it on the cross and in the empty tomb. However Jesus is all about God and accomplishing his Father's will.

Barabbas is a prisoner destined for death by crucifixion. However Jesus is substituted into the place of Barabbas and provides Barabbas with freedom. The “silent witness” of Barabbas calls us to think about our freedom in Christ.

Rush, rush, rush, achieve, achieve, achieve. That is how we are programmed by our world today in the society that reminds us that we will miss out if we don’t keep up. Check your phone every five minutes, check your email every hour or the fear of missing out will overcome us. A day off becomes just another opportunity to get a head start on the week ahead, and connection with the God who made us, drifts closer towards the bottom of the increasing to-do list. But what if that is not how we were made to be? What if the drive to achieve and experience is actually detrimental not only to our physical health but also our spiritual well-being? In our desire to experience the Practices of Jesus this weekend we look at what it means to simply be with Jesus. Proverbs 3:1-10 John 15:1-8   These notes are my speaking notes and are provided as an accompaniment to the recording. Please accept that they are not intended to be a published grammatically correct essay. I do hope and pray however they help you move towards Jesus. Now onto the content… Here we are in week two of our mini series on what we are calling Practising the Way of Jesus. For those who were not here last week I asked the question of you, “is Jesus just a hobby or is he everything?” I asked that because in my experience Jesus as a hobby brings frustration and a mediocre life. However Jesus as our everything brings risk, and fulfillment in what Jesus called a life and life to the full. This series of Practising the Way of Jesus is a brief introduction of what it means to seek that life to the full as seek to be with...Read MoreThe post Practising The Way Of Jesus: Be With Jesus appeared first on Bedhampton Church.

Sincere Religious Affections As Jesus continues to teach his disciples what sets them apart from the world and the religious, He unpacks for them 3 spiritual disciplines they would be familiar with: alms giving, prayer, and fasting. However Jesus is going to show them how His people will practice these spiritual disciplines from hearts captivated by new affections, not out of duty or reward from religious onlookers. Today we consider 2 of the three - how true kingdom citizens will pray and fast very differently from the merely religious. Life Group Homework

For most Christians, when they hear the phrase "Eternal Life" they think of a future life in Heaven. However Jesus clarified what he meant by saying "This IS eternal life: that they might know you, the one true God..." This revolutionary verse doesn't get the attention it deserves, probably becausee it didn't get the translation it deserves. Join me as I talk about how "knowing" God is an all encompassing, five senses, tangible kind of knowing.    To support House of Bliss, sign up on PATREON To hear my band, check out Glowing Moses  

Matthew 13:45-46 is ofter read with the perspective that Jesus is the pearl and when we find Him we should give up everything to keep Him, However Jesus is the merchant. We do not need to give anything to keep Him, He gave it all just so He could keep us! 45 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. 46 When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!

In the gospel of Luke the drama of the crucifixion of Jesus is carried forward through the taunts and mockery of the leaders, the soldiers and one of the thieves. They ask Jesus to come down from the cross to save himself, however if he had done this he would not have been able to save us. This is the final temptation. However Jesus persevered and became the savior of the world. Today we can be transformed by the power of the cross.

Most Christians know that they should be telling other people about Jesus, but don't.  It's too easy to get disappointed and discouraged by the lack of interest and give up.  However Jesus says that the reality is very different...

Most Christians know that they should be telling other people about Jesus, but don’t.  It’s too easy to get disappointed and discouraged by the lack of interest and give up.  However Jesus says that the reality is very different...

Feelings of unworthiness can be so strong, that we may accept this lie as truth. However Jesus came so that we may have a life of abundance and worth! Let’s discover together how to hide the truth of Jesus in our hearts. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

4/12/2019 – Easter Sunday – The Unique Resurrection of Jesus Download   Resurrection Sunday, or Easter, is the celebration of Jesus rising from the dead. However Jesus wasn’t the only person who came back to life in the Bible. What makes Jesus’ resurrection unique, and what does the uniqueness of His resurrection mean for us…Read More

Re-Lent - To Cease Resistance: What would it look like to relent to God; and fully accept what He desires for your life? Usually, we refuse to fully relent because we are afraid of the changes that may take away the comfort and stability of our lives. We resist against the reality that there are parts of us that are not yet equipped for what God desires for us, His children. We are continually trying to prove we are virtuous enough without the need for change. However Jesus “did not come to call the virtuous, but sinners” (Matthew 9:13). And he himself, lowered his resistance to God for the advancement of The Kingdom. Join us for this six-week series as we learn to Re-lent and feel confident that what God has for us is worth relinquishing control. Speaker - Beau McCarthy

Re-Lent - To Cease Resistance: What would it look like to relent to God; and fully accept what He desires for your life? Usually, we refuse to fully relent because we are afraid of the changes that may take away the comfort and stability of our lives. We resist against the reality that there are parts of us that are not yet equipped for what God desires for us, His children. We are continually trying to prove we are virtuous enough without the need for change. However Jesus “did not come to call the virtuous, but sinners” (Matthew 9:13). And he himself, lowered his resistance to God for the advancement of The Kingdom. Join us for this six-week series as we learn to Re-lent and feel confident that what God has for us is worth relinquishing control. Speaker - Beau McCarthy

Re-Lent - To Cease Resistance: What would it look like to relent to God; and fully accept what He desires for your life? Usually, we refuse to fully relent because we are afraid of the changes that may take away the comfort and stability of our lives. We resist against the reality that there are parts of us that are not yet equipped for what God desires for us, His children. We are continually trying to prove we are virtuous enough without the need for change. However Jesus “did not come to call the virtuous, but sinners” (Matthew 9:13). And he himself, lowered his resistance to God for the advancement of The Kingdom. Join us for this six-week series as we learn to Re-lent and feel confident that what God has for us is worth relinquishing control. Speaker - Nate Sjogren

We are looking at the famous last words of Jesus. One of the last words of Jesus were why? Jesus asked the question why. Jesus can identify with us in that He faced tough times and even in those tough times He asked why. However Jesus didn’t stay there. There are three important keys in these times. Number one you can’t know everything, its okay to say you don’t know. We are all tempted to give up, even Jesus was. He just didn’t give in. Finally, every day that you trust Him is a step of faith. Listen to this message to find out more.  

Re-Lent - To Cease Resistance: What would it look like to relent to God; and fully accept what He desires for your life? Usually, we refuse to fully relent because we are afraid of the changes that may take away the comfort and stability of our lives. We resist against the reality that there are parts of us that are not yet equipped for what God desires for us, His children. We are continually trying to prove we are virtuous enough without the need for change. However Jesus “did not come to call the virtuous, but sinners” (Matthew 9:13). And he himself, lowered his resistance to God for the advancement of The Kingdom. Join us for this six-week series as we learn to Re-lent and feel confident that what God has for us is worth relinquishing control. Speaker - Liz Taylor

Re-Lent - To Cease Resistance: What would it look like to relent to God; and fully accept what He desires for your life? Usually, we refuse to fully relent because we are afraid of the changes that may take away the comfort and stability of our lives. We resist against the reality that there are parts of us that are not yet equipped for what God desires for us, His children. We are continually trying to prove we are virtuous enough without the need for change. However Jesus “did not come to call the virtuous, but sinners” (Matthew 9:13). And he himself, lowered his resistance to God for the advancement of The Kingdom. Join us for this six-week series as we learn to Re-lent and feel confident that what God has for us is worth relinquishing control. Speaker - Beau McCarthy

Quite often our faith can become based on rules and regulations in a quest to win God's favour. However Jesus called us into a personal relationship with him that would be birthed spiritually rather than ritually. This week Phil Shaw explores the secret conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus the Pharisee to shed light on the blessings of an authentic spirit filled life. Is it time you stepped into the light? Listen Now!

Brian Mayer talks about what the Bible says about Divorce and Remarriage.   There is much debate on what Christians believe is appropriate about these two issues.  We will take some time to sort these issues out on today's episode.  We hope you are inspired by what you hear today.  For more information and additional resources please visit our website at http://www.theremarriedlife.com Today's Goodies When it comes to Divorce and Remarriage and the Bible there are lots of thoughts about this issue.  I will certainly give my own interpretation and maybe some will disagree.  There are certainly reasons that God's word says that divorce is acceptable.  Let's talk about what the Bible says about when it is acceptable.  One issue that it becomes acceptable is found in Matthew 19:9 which says “I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery."  This basically means that if adultery happens then it is acceptable.  However Jesus is a God of second chances and that he does promote reconciliation.  So that is what he would prefer if possible.  Abandonment by a spouse is another reason for the acceptable divorce.  According to the Bible, I Corinthians 7:15 say that “But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace.” Of course these are what I will call escape clauses and if you feel the need to use them or have used them then you are in the clear so to speak.  However I also believe that God is a one of second chances.  So if you have decided that a divorce was needed due to other reasons, that God is a forgiving God.  Matthew 6: 14-15 says “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” This means that even if your spouse has done something to warrant a divorce, that if you can forgive them for this, that he will also forgive you.  Ultimately because Jesus was sent to earth and died for our sins, that ultimately we will be forgiven for what we have done.  And if we can forgive our spouse for what they have done that we will can more forward it whatever path we chose to.  Remember that some reasons for divorce are acceptable but that ultimately reconciliation and forgiveness is even more important.   Overall here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to your feelings of divorce and remarriage When reading the word of God, do not take specific passages in isolation but think about the Bible as a whole.  A lot of times we will pick passages that fit our line of thinking but we don't look at things in context.  When others give you their perspective according to the what they believe the Bible says, go check it out for yourself.  I would even say this about things you hear from your pastors or other theologians.  Pray about it and then do a lot of listening to God.  Often we talk, talk, talk to God and give him a laundry list of items that we need or want rather than just listening to what he says about divorce and remarriage.  Finally remember that our God is a God of Second Chances.  Jesus said so often that while he did not come to abolish the law, that he came to fulfill it.  What does this mean?  It means that while those laws are still there and that we should do our best to follow and obey them, that when we do not that we have a Saviour in Jesus that will forgive us.  As a result we do not have to go backward, or do several things to attone for what happened.  Take care and know that you are forgiven for what happened.     Resources: None Mentioned. Thanks For Listening! With so many things that take time in our lives, I more grateful than you know that you took time to listen to this podcast episode.  If you liked this episode and believe that it would be beneficial to a friend, family member, or colleague, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. The Remarried Life Facebook Group is a community of people just like you who get and give support.  Please join today!  ​ As always remember that marriage is not something you have, it is something you do.  Talk to you next week unless you are binge listening in the future in which case I will talk to you in about a minute!  Take care.

Adam was the created son of God who was given image, likeness and dominion to be about the Father's business. Yet the created son was banished from the garden because of becoming a rebellious son. However Jesus, the begotten of the Father, became the redeeming son that enables believers today to again become the created sons of the father. This message will remind you of just who you are because of Christ.

Read: John 4 :1-42 More space is given to this story about the woman at the well in the gospels than any other story, apart from the passion and crucifixion. This story reveals much about the nature of relationship between Jesus and people who encountered him. Significantly for us, this story of how Jesus chooses to reach out to the despised Samaritan group, exemplifies his desire for us to know him completely and to know that his love comes with no strings attached. (Romans 5:8). Jesus is not under any illusions about our doubts, faults and mistakes, but in the midst of this he invites us to come into his family. Most likely, the woman was at the well in the heat of midday because of shame, the fear of judgement and unacceptance. The other women would have drawn water in the cool of the morning but she avoided them because of her history. Her shame was an impediment for her. But Jesus makes the point that her shame is not an obstacle for his love (v7-10). How do our feelings and thoughts about our past hold us back from the full experience of Jesus’ love? What things in your life have acted as a barrier to experiencing Jesus love? The woman at the well may have been seeking acceptance in her life through her relationships with men (v15-18). However Jesus tells her that's she's looking for her fulfilment in wrong and damaging ways because of her brokenness. It is he alone who can give her the fulfilment she desires. In which ways and in which places do we seek acceptance apart from God? How is this pursuit of acceptance, apart from Jesus, damaging? Jesus chose to travel through Samaria even though the Jews and Samaritans hated each other. This hatred went so deeply that Jews would travel around Samaria even though it doubled their travel time. Jesus’ interaction with this woman showed his unconditional love despite the fact that by all social mores he shouldn't have been speaking to her (she was a woman, a Samaritan, an adultress…). Jesus pushed aside traditions that separated and alienated groups of people to reach out for the one who needed to know his love. Are there places you alter your travel route to avoid going through? What people do you avoid? Which groups are you closed to? (Gay, Muslim, homeless, atheists, different racial or cultural groups?) How does your attitude keep you from sharing God's love with these people? Note: You can’t/won’t begin to love and accept others until you know the love and acceptance of God for you first.

To those suffering and going through hardships, Jesus says, ‘Do not fear.’ But on what ground can this statement actually stand if it is to help us? How can it be a source of real strength and encouragement rather than being a bit of meaningless good advice? In this sermon we examine Christ’s message to the suffering Christians in the church of Smyrna and the interpretative framework that he gives to those who are being persecuted. In our contemporary setting, we live among a predominantly secular worldview, the assumption that there is no higher power, that this life is all there is, and our life’s purpose is simply to take what we can from our time on earth and pass something on to the next generation if possible. However this worldview cannot provide a satisfactory answer to the brute fact of human suffering. However Jesus speaks to the church to give them an alternate view of reality – a worldview that is constructed around the Christian gospel – that Christ himself suffered and died on a cross and rose to life on the third day. A Christian worldview with the gospel at the centre flows out to meet every facet of human knowledge and experience, including human suffering. We see in this gospel-centred framework deep resources available in our suffering as well as the hope of a future free of suffering and sadness. Main passage: Revelation 2:8-11

Psalms 69 Watch Video Download Handout Download Manuscript Listen to MP3 → Click to view the Sermon Outline 1 Peter 4:15-16 - Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. 5 truths to apply when you suffer for doing what is right I. Explain your Hardships to the Lord (Psalm 69:1-4) A. “I feel like I am drowning” (v. 2) B. “I am in a regular state of grief” (v. 3) C. “Everywhere I turn there is more hurt” (v. 4) John 15:20, 24-25 - Remember the word that I said to you, “A slave is not greater than his master.” If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would not have sin; but now they have both seen and hated Me and My Father as well. But they have done this to fulfill the word that is written in their Law, ‘They hated Me without a cause.’” II. Remain Passionate for God’s Glory (vv. 5-12) A. Despite your personal sin (v. 5) B. Despite the poor treatment by others (vv. 6-8, 10-12) C. In order to follow the example of Christ (v. 9) John 2:17 - His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house will consume me.” Romans 15:3 - For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me.” III. Cry to the Lord for Rescue (vv. 13-21) A. Rather than complaining about it or just dwelling on it (vv. 13-19) B. Because the Lord has a compassionate character (v. 13, 16) Judges 10:16 - So they put away the foreign gods from among them and served the Lord; and He could bear the misery of Israel no longer. C. Rather than finding other sources of comfort (vv. 20-21) “The offer of ‘sour wine’ is an act of mockery and insult. The soldiers join the mockery of Jesus by offering him the cheap wine that was popular among the lower ranks of society, insulting the ‘king’ whom they have crucified. The allusion, if intended, explains another detail of Jesus’ crucifixion against the background of another psalm that describes the treatment of a righteous sufferer by his enemies, highlighting both Jesus’ suffering in being mocked and the fulfilment of Scripture in what Jesus had to endure at the cross.” (Pao and Schnabel, “Luke,” in Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament. Eds. G. K. Beale and D.A. Carson. Baker: Grand Rapids, 2007, 397) IV. Remember that God will Bring about Justice at the Proper Time (vv. 22-28) A. However Jesus and Paul prayed for forgiveness rather than retribution B. For when justice comes, the opportunities are over (v. 28) Acts 1:20 - For it is written in the book of Psalms, “Let his homestead be made desolate, and let no one dwell in it”; and, “Let another man take his office.” Romans 11:7-10 - What then? What Israel is seeking, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened; just as it is written, “God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes to see not and ears to hear not, down to this very day.” And David says, “Let their table become a snare and a trap, and a stumbling block and a retribution to them. Let their eyes be darkened to see not, and bend their backs forever.” V. Praise the Lord for His Deliverance (vv. 29-36) A. From individual sin (vv. 29-31) B. To share with others (vv. 32-36)  Outlined Manuscript Happy Mother’s Day. We realize that today is a very encouraging day for some and a challenging for others. It is our prayer that our time in the Word and in song today serves everyone. We want to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep. Our annual theme is In Christ Alone. At this point we are considering how several Psalms look beyond the human author and point directly to the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Thus, we have entitle our series Seeing Christ in the Psalms. Two weeks ago Pastor Viars used Psalm 16 to show how we could be Confident in Christ, then Pastor Aucoin used Psalm 40 to show how our relationship with Christ leads us to praise. Today, we will use Psalm 69 to show how we can Learn to handle Righteous Suffering. Let’s begin by thinking about suffering in general. 1 Peter 4:15-16 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; 16 but if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name. Verse 15 is clear that sometimes our suffering is due to the consequences of our sin. Sin has a price. The proper response when we experience suffering from God’s discipline is to repent of our sin and turn to God. Sometimes our gracious Lord allows the bitter taste of suffering to drive us to repentance. But that is not our subject matter today. We are interested in the content of v. 16. What happens when my suffering comes when I am doing right? I think this is part of the human experience. Have you ever been treated harshly when you did nothing to deserve it? Maybe there are people in your school that are naturally bigger and stronger or maybe just with a whole lot more attitude than others and they bully people … including you. Maybe you have a sibling or two that does not treat you very well and you have not done anything to deserve it. Maybe your spouse was grumpy and started taking out their bad attitude on you. All you did was occupy a similar space. Maybe your boss is all stressed out and under some pressure so he or she unloads their frustrations on you. Righteous suffering, for a Christian, can be a normal experience. So what do we do? How do we respond? With that in mind please turn in your Bibles to Psalm 69. That is on page ____ of the back section of the Bible in the chair in front of you. As you are turning there I would like to highlight a few points about our series. The whole Bible, in one way or another, points in the direction of Jesus. Some passages point more directly than others. The Psalms that we are looking at in our series are Psalms that speak about the human author’s experience (in our case that will be David), but also to the experience of Jesus in very direct ways. That is why we call them Christological Psalms. They clearly and directly point to Christ. One of the reasons that we know certain Psalms describe Christ’s experience is that the NT authors use the Psalm when talking about Christ. That is one of the defining features of Psalm 69. It is one of the most often quoted Psalms in the NT. We are going to work our way through the Psalm. But we are going to do so by thinking about David, about Jesus, and about us all at the same time. Please follow along as I read the entire Psalm. This is the Word of the Lord. [Read Psalm 69] I would like us to consider 5 truths to apply when you suffer for doing what is right I. Explain your hardships to the Lord (Psalm 69:1-4) I am amazed at the way David especially opens up his heart to the Lord. In Psalm 6 he says that he cries himself to sleep. In Psalm 13 he asks God how long he will forget about him. Now in Psalm 69 we see him saying … “I feel like I am drowning” (v. 2) Downing is one intense experience. I was not a great swimmer growing up, but about 6 years ago I learned to swim reasonably well. But this day was the first time I had ever swam in open water. It was a terrifying experience. Obviously, I made it, but for while there I wondered. David uses the drowning analogy to describe the condition of his hardships. We all have to wrestle with how much we say in a 10 second conversation with another person… “How are you?” “Fine” “Awesome, have a great day!” When we are not fine we wonder just how much we should say. But friends, please listen, when you speak with the Lord he wants you to lay it all out there. God did not want his people trying to bury all of their emotions and struggles. That is especially true when you are suffering, like David in this Psalm and like Jesus, for doing nothing wrong. In Hebrews, one of the reasons Jesus suffered was to be a faithful high priest sensitive to the struggles of the human life. Save me O God, I feel like I am drowning. “I am in a regular state of grief” (v. 3) David often speaks of his tears. I have always found it amazing that David would do that. Even as a young man he was not afraid of a fight. In fact, when he hears Goliath he decides he has to do something. But before he speaks with King Saul. He learns that Saul has made an offer. He offered his daughter in marriage, riches, and tax free status to the soldier that kills Goliath. What more could a man need? A Girl, gold, and tax free status. David was not afraid of a fight. Later, King Saul did not give David any of those things. So when Saul’s daughter wanted to marry David, Saul makes him a deal (he deserved her anyway!). Bring back 100 Philistine foreskins. It is safe to assume that you did not ask for those. Nor could you set up a gofundme page in order to have my dream wedding. David brings back 200. David was a warrior. Yet, David was not afraid to tell the Lord all about his suffering. He was not afraid to go to the Lord and tell him that his eyes hurt from crying so much. He was not afraid to tell the Lord that his constant crying made him thirsty. “Everywhere I turn there is more hurt” (v. 4) For David, the suffering seemed relentless. It is here that we get our first quotation in the NT. Jesus teaches his disciples that despite all the miracles Jesus has done the people have rejected him and the disciples needed to be prepared for rejection themselves. John 15:20, 24-25 20 Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; 24 If I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would not have sin; but now they have both seen and hated Me and My Father as well. 25 But they have done this to fulfill the word that is written in their Law, ‘They hated Me without a cause.’ Friends, we live in a world that is not always friendly to the things of God. When you have those moments where you righteously suffer … you are in good company. So Jesus completely understands. He wants you to tell him like it is. He wants you to express your thoughts and emotions to him. While we explain our hardships we also … II. Remain Passionate for God’s Glory (vv. 5-12) Righteous suffering was never meant to result in idleness. Righteous suffering is a time for action. Even though David feels like he is drowning and that he there is nowhere that he can go where one of his enemies is not there, he remains passionate for God’s glory. He is interested in faithfulness to the Lord. Righteous suffering sure has a few obstacles … Despite your personal sin (v. 5) This verse clearly shows that the entire Psalm is not first about Jesus, but about David. David acknowledges that he is a sinner, but he is also arguing that his suffering (this time at least) is not the direct result of sin. I find this helpful as well. I can remain humble about my own sin and yet remain steadfast that this time someone is causing me grief without reason and I can continue pursuing God’s glory in the process. Despite the poor treatment by others (vv. 6-8, 10-12) David’s reputation and his relationships have been impacted by his enemies. Maybe they spread false rumors about him. Maybe they shared true things about him that other people did not need to know. Either way, it is impacted his public reputation and his family environment (v. 8) But it actually got worse. In v. 12 those who sit in the gate area (a common place for judges and town leaders to gather). If that were not bad enough, David is the subject of the made up songs drunks sing when they are belly up at the bar. That is rough … but did you notice v. 9? It speaks to what David was doing while all this hot mess was happening around him. He was zealous for the Lords house. In order to follow the example of Christ (v. 9) This is huge. When Jesus cleanses the temple … he removes all the merchants and drives out this special temple economy where the religious leaders were getting rich from the parishoners. Then we find these words … John 2:17 His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house will consume me.” When the disciples thought about the cleansing of the temple their minds went to Psalm 69. Jesus is exhibiting passion for God’s house. They know that the religious leaders are not going to like that. The very next verse says, “by what authority are you doing these things?” When Paul was teaching, he reminded the Romans that they may experience suffering just as David did and just as Jesus did by quoting Psalm 69:9. Romans 15:3 For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me.” Friends, when you stand strong in your faith. When you stand strong in your actions … zealous for the cause of Christ … in the midst of unjust suffering then you are following the example of Christ and the heroes of the faith. Just in case the Romans got a little nervous about following that example Paul gave them v. 4 which explains that the Scriptures (all the Scriptures) were written so that we might have hope. So, when that bully is messing with you again … saying mean things trying to destroy your reputation … remain passionate (zealous) for God’s glory. When your spouse is treating you unfairly and you are tempted to unload on them … choose to remain zealous for the Lord. When your boss is angry at you because he or she is facing a lot of pressure and you just happen to be present … choose to remain zealous for the Lord. When your employees bad mouth you and you know that you are doing everything you can to allow them to keep their jobs … remain zealous for the Lord. What I have suggested so far is that when you suffer you first determine whether your suffering is a consequence for your sin or whether it is righteous suffering. If it is righteous suffering then you first explain all your hardships to the Lord. While you talk to the Lord you also remain passionate for God’s glory. Psalm 69 continues by encouraging us to… III. Cry to the Lord for Rescue (vv. 13-21) I think the overwhelming testimony of Scripture is that suffering for righteousness is a good thing. According to 1 Peter 4:15 we glory God when we have that opportunity. That does not mean, however, that our life will be defined by suffering. One of my seminary professors used to say that he believed in a call to suffering. Some believers, by the plan of God, were going to suffer for Christ. However, it is normally the case that suffering is for a season. David asks God to deliver him from his suffering. O God, answer me (v. 13) Deliver me (v. 14) Rescue me (v. 15) Answer me (v. 16) Do not hide from me (v. 17) Draw near to me (v. 18) Rather than complaining about it or just dwelling on it (vv. 13-19) At times unjust suffering makes us feel powerless. We think that our only option is to take it from our classmate, neighbor, brother, sister, spouse, boss, or co-worker. We have no recourse because either they have leadership over us or the leadership does not seem to care. So what we do is start complaining about it. We might find sympathetic voices. Leaders can get together with other leaders and talk about how hard it is to lead people. Spouses can find people who also believe they are suffering unjustly. But sometimes we don’t even have to share it. We can dwell on it instead. We can spend hours upon hours being impacted in our hearts. The big problem with this is that it cripples us for accomplishing what God wants us to accomplish. We use our emotional energy to complain in our hearts. Instead, we need to ask God to rescue us. David turns to the Lord over and over again asking with a series of imperatives for God to take action. Because the Lord has a compassionate character (v. 13, 16) David thinks very carefully about the reason God would act. He would act because he is a compassionate person. Earlier this year I was reading through Judges and I came across a verse that caught my attention. Judges 10:16 So they put away the foreign gods from among them and served the Lord; and He could bear the misery of Israel no longer. In context, Judges is in response to the consequences for sin … not righteous suffering. Even then, even in the midst of our own foolishness, God can only bear so much. How much more for the Lord to see his righteous suffering. The Lord may call us to a special ministry of suffering for specific purposes. But the general way God works is that suffering is for a season and while we are in that suffering we can ask the Lord to rescue us. Rather than finding other sources of comfort (vv. 20-21) David looks for comforters, but he does not find any real comfort in them. In fact, what he receives is more ill treatment. It is this verse that every gospel writer uses to describe what the soldiers did to Jesus. He was thirsty. Rather than give him a drink of quality wine … the dying are to receive some relief from their pain … they give trashy wine to add the misery of a horrible taste in your mouth to the pain that exists everywhere else. David Pao and Eckhard Schnabel beautifully described these events, “The offer of ‘sour wine’ is an act of mockery and insult. The soldiers join the mockery of Jesus by offering him the cheap wine that was popular among the lower ranks of society, insulting the ‘king’ whom they have crucified. The allusion, if intended, explains another detail of Jesus’ crucifixion against the background of another psalm that describes the treatment of a righteous sufferer by his enemies, highlighting both Jesus’ suffering in being mocked and the fulfilment of Scripture in what Jesus had to endure at the cross.” (Pao and Schnabel, “Luke,” in Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament. Eds. G. K. Beale and D.A. Carson. Baker: Grand Rapids, 2007, 397). Sam Wright’s testimony hit this point beautifully. She described the hurts that come from days like Mother’s Day and encouraged all of us to find our rescue in the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. His suffering and the fulfillment of suffering is what makes rescue possible. So cry out to him … there is a sympathetic ear on the other end of the line with the power to make a difference. I hope at this point you are already encouraged that Psalm 69 not only describes the experience of David, not only is it fulfilled in Christ, but it also provides hope and help in the midst of suffering. I also hope that you are even a little convicted. I know there are times in my life where I truly was suffering righteously. I did not deserve the poor treatment given to me by others. But I did not (and maybe do not) respond like this. Talk to God? Maybe I just talk to myself. Remain passionate for God’s glory? Maybe I try to find a way to get a little bit of that glory. Cry to the Lord for rescue? Maybe I reserve myself to the fact that something is not going to change and do not ask the Lord for anything. Psalm 69 is loaded with truth. I have received enough for the sermon already, but there is more encouragement and more conviction … IV. Remember that God will bring about justice at the proper time (vv. 22-28) I mentioned David was a warrior. While David allowed people to say things against him, he was also pretty rough on his enemies. The #1 hit record (does that phrase show my age or what? I did not say CD, nor did I say 8 track, nor did I say music video) in ancient Israel was Saul has slain his thousands but David has slain his ten thousands. Now he is praying that God would bring about justice. This is not a prayer of revenge as much as it is a prayer for God to properly repay the wicked for their wicked actions. Verse 26 is what David is particularly upset about … God has called him to suffer, but his enemies add persecution to it. God has brought about trouble, but his enemies go and tell others about it. When we righteously suffer we must be careful not to create a revengeful or a competitive spirit. Where it is really about you and me.  Instead we are asking for God to bring about his righteous justice. However Jesus and Paul prayed for forgiveness rather than retribution It is also helpful to remember that in the midst of righteous suffering Jesus prayed for those who were persecuting him. On the cross, Jesus was not asking for retribution, he was asking that they would be forgiven. Even Paul confessed that he would rather suffer in hell then for his brothers to do so. It reflects a heart desiring people be saved. So our first thought should not be one of retribution, but asking God to his work in the heart of a person so that they can be forgiven. For when justice comes the opportunities are over (v. 28) The sobering reality is that the NT uses this section of Psalm 25 two times. Acts 1:20 “For it is written in the book of Psalms, ‘Let his homestead be made desolate, And let no one dwell in it’; and, ‘Let another man take his office.’ This is a reference to Judas. After he betrayed Jesus he kills himself, leaving his homestead to someone else and his position as one of the twelve is taken by someone else. This was a final decision. No more opportunities. Romans 11:7-10 7 What then? What Israel is seeking, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened; 8 just as it is written, “God gave them a spirit of stupor, Eyes to see not and ears to hear not, Down to this very day.” 9 And David says, “Let their table become a snare and a trap, And a stumbling block and a retribution to them. 10 “Let their eyes be darkened to see not, And bend their backs forever.” This is in reference to the nation of Israel. Paul explains how Israel refused to follow the Lord and refused to acknowledge that Jesus is messiah. As a result they do not have eyes to see or ears to hear. In Psalm 69:28 we find the striking comment about “blotting their name from the book of Life.” In each case, when justice came the opportunities were over. That is a sobering reminder regarding life and even how we process righteous suffering. There is a sense in which we want God to make all things right and knowing that God will make them right gives us comfort and encouragement to face each new challenge. But before we run too quickly to the concept of justice let’s ask the Lord to rescue the people who are harming us. Let’s ask that the Lord would turn his lovingkindness in their direction just as he has turned it in our direction. The final section of Psalm 69 encourages us to … V. Praise the Lord for his deliverance (vv. 29-36) David’s affliction did not disappear in the middle of this Psalm. But David nevertheless finds a way to praise. His praise centers on God’s salvation. He believes that God will deliver him. Praise is God’s mind is better than an ox. Pastor Aucoin explained last week that while the sacrifices were required, they were never an end in themselves. It was the heart of the worshipper and ultimately the sin that Jesus would pay once for all that made the sacrifices so important. That is why we can praise the Lord for his deliverance … From individual sin (vv. 29-31) In Christ there is rescue not just from the people who mistreat you, but more importantly from the sin that separates you from a holy God. Just as every other part of this psalm has been a pointer to Christ so also does this part point to the ultimate deliverance found in the D/B/R of Jesus Christ. In the last two months I have been part of two memorial services. Praise the Lord that both Lester and Margaret Bell knew the Lord. But as I looked out at the audience I could not help but wonder how many of the rest would spend eternity with the Lord if they died today. I want to ask you that … If you were to die today and God should ask you, Why should I let you into my heaven? What would you tell him? Would you tell him that you have been a good person? Would you tell him that you attended church reasonably frequently? Would you tell him that you invested your time and money into things that would make a difference for the cause of Christ? The only answer that carries any weight is that you have acknowledged your sin and you have trusted in the D/B/R of Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior. I want to encourage you to do that today. To share with others (vv. 32-36) When we experience deliverance, we want to share it with others. David invited other worshippers to come and celebrate the Lord’s deliverance with him. That is a significant part of our ministry. We do not want to hide the deliverance, we want to share it. I encourage you to pray for the youth (Finals, then missions trip to Lafayette) I encourage you to pray for the Hispanic class (beginning an ESL ministry) I encourage you to sign up and pray for VBS Part of the way that we let people know about the deliverance is that we go to them. The concept of righteous suffering is an important one. David experienced it. He was willing to admit that he was a sinner, but that his sin (in this case) was not the cause of his suffering. But as David discerned how to process his righteous suffering the Lord also was the greater righteous sufferer. In Christ he wants to hear our struggles … he took on humanity, in part, to relate to the suffering we endure. Christ wants us to be zealous for god’s glory … he was … resulting in the cleansing of the temple. Christ wants us to cry out for deliverance … he is a compassionate God whose ear listens intently to the prayers of his people. Christ wants us to follow his example and pray for forgiveness knowing that when God meters out justice, and he will, the opportunities for change are over. Christ wants to praise him for our deliverance from sin and from our deliverance from those who cause us harm. That allows us to encourage others to share in that praise. Life is full of struggles … some of them we cause ourselves. Some of them are part of the Christian life. Thankfully we have a series of truths to apply and the perfect Christ to follow.

Our modern idea of a banquet pales in comparison to the scope and length of most banquets in the days of Jesus It is that setting that Jesus used to tell a parable about human nature That parable deals with excuses and how humans are really good at making them In Luke 1415 someone had said something about the kingdom only seeing the positive about it He was basically saying that there was no way that people would not want to be part of the kingdom However Jesus shows him that people will make all types of excuses

Rev. Darin Stone introduces a new sermon series on the book of Ecclesiastes. All is vanity (v.1-2) Why bother? (v.3-11) 1. the futility of life expressed in nature. 2. the futility of life expressed in human experience. However - Jesus changes everything - He makes all things new. He provides an entirely new perspective. The gospel gives us meaning and purpose.

Simply said, when we put our faith in Christ, God no longer counts our sin against us. Paul explains to us in Colossians 2:12-15 that Jesus raised us from the dead, crossed out our debts, and disarmed the demons. Our sin was an eternal debt to God. However Jesus — perfect and eternal — paid 100% of our eternal debt — past, present, and future — through dying on the cross and being raised to life. He nailed our sins to that cross and covered us in His blood. Christ used Satan's momentum against him. Through Christ's death, He brought us forgiveness and life. It is finished — our debt has been paid!

Simply said, when we put our faith in Christ, God no longer counts our sin against us. Paul explains to us in Colossians 2:12-15 that Jesus raised us from the dead, crossed out our debts, and disarmed the demons. Our sin was an eternal debt to God. However Jesus — perfect and eternal — paid 100% of our eternal debt — past, present, and future — through dying on the cross and being raised to life. He nailed our sins to that cross and covered us in His blood. Christ used Satan's momentum against him. Through Christ's death, He brought us forgiveness and life. It is finished — our debt has been paid!

Simply said, when we put our faith in Christ, God no longer counts our sin against us. Paul explains to us in Colossians 2:12-15 that Jesus raised us from the dead, crossed out our debts, and disarmed the demons. Our sin was an eternal debt to God. However Jesus — perfect and eternal — paid 100% of our eternal debt — past, present, and future — through dying on the cross and being raised to life. He nailed our sins to that cross and covered us in His blood. Christ used Satan's momentum against him. Through Christ's death, He brought us forgiveness and life. It is finished — our debt has been paid!

Christians can often feel like an unwanted minority in a godless society and retreat into a bunker mentality. However Jesus tells us we are to affect the whole of our culture with what God has given us. But how can so few of us make such big difference?

Christians can often feel like an unwanted minority in a godless society and retreat into a bunker mentality. However Jesus tells us we are to affect the whole of our culture with what God has given us. But how can so few of us make such big difference?