Podcasts about Idolatry

Why was there almost no emphasis on "church growth" before the 1970s, and how does the fixation on it for the last 40 years correspond with the American economy? Skye talks with Andrew Root about his new book, "Baal and the Gods of More," about the link between the modern church growth movement and ancient pagan fertility gods. A new report by Ryan Burge says that for decades those who left the church were turned off by partisan politics and the religious right, but that trend might be changing. Also this week, Brazil blames its poor performance in the World Cup on evangelicals, European evangelicals issue a statement, and an old theory about early Christianity and psychedelic mushrooms is back.   Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://holypost.substack.com/p/730-the-idolatry-of-church-growth?r=35kf51&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&triedRedirect=true   Bonus Interview with Andrew Root: https://holypost.substack.com/p/why-churches-cant-stop-chasing-growth?r=35kf51&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&triedRedirect=true   0:00 - Show Starts   4:07 - Theme Song   4:30 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Get the AG1 $76 Welcome Pack for free when you order from https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   6:01 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month!   7:03 - Was Jesus a Mushroom?   12:52 - Brazil Blames Evangelicals for Soccer Failure?   21:40 - Sponsor - Tyndale -  To celebrate the NLT's 30th anniversary, Use code CURIOUS30 to receive 30% off any NLT Bible! https://tyndale.com   22:44 - Sponsor - Access Forge - Go to https://www.accessible.faith/ to unlock the first two Belonging by Design lessons and use promo code HOLYPOST to get $200 off the full program   23:47 - Sponsor - Feeding America - Feeding America, led by neighbors! Give now to end hunger at https://www.feedingamerica.org   24:20 - European Evangelicals   49:38 - Interview   54:32- Fertility Gods   1:02:09 - Capitalism and False Gods   1:18:26 - The Rise and Fall of American Growth   1:31:52 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Popular Science Posits Jesus was a Psychedelic Mushroom: https://www.popularmechanics.com/culture/a69061008/god-sacred-mushroom-christianity-debate/   Did Evangelicals Ruin Brazil's Soccer Performance? https://religionnews.com/2026/07/17/some-world-cup-fans-are-blaming-brazils-loss-on-evangelicals/?utm_medium=social   European Evangelicals Differentiate from American Evangelicals: https://religionunplugged.com/news/european-evangelicals-draw-a-clear-distinction-from-their-american-counterparts?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=topic/christianity   Other Resources: Baal and the Gods of More: Rescuing Church Growth from Idolatry (A Theological Critique of Modern Ministry Metrics and Success-Driven Strategies) by Andrew Root: https://a.co/d/0c0ijKLw   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

In this lecture, Lawrence Lockett, Jr. speaks about intimacy with Jesus as something that requires pursuit, attention, and protection from distraction. He says that many believers want to know Jesus deeply, but daily life, devices, and competing priorities pull the heart in different directions.He presents the message as a warning about “the allure of other loves,” using Exodus 20, Matthew 6, and 1 John 5 to show that Scripture consistently asks who or what has the heart. He explains that idolatry is not only about statues or ancient practices, but also about misplaced worship and divided allegiance.The lecture focuses first on the first and second commandments. He says God's command is exclusive: no other gods and no created image of God. He describes idols as both false gods and false versions of the true God, and says that people still remake God according to their own preferences, ideologies, or desires.He also distinguishes between “idols by nature” and “idols by placement.” Some idols are openly sinful, while others begin as good gifts such as careers, relationships, children, money, or ministry. The danger, he says, is when a gift becomes ultimate and replaces the Giver.A second section turns to Colossians 3 and the idea that idols are redirected rather than simply removed. He says worship begins in the mind, and repeated influences shape the channels of thought that eventually shape the heart. Christian change, he argues, is not mainly behavior modification but renewed thinking that leads worship back to God.In the final section, he returns to Exodus and Revelation to stress that God begins with grace before giving commands. He says Jesus calls wandering believers to remember, repent, and return to their first love. The message ends by pointing to Jesus as the image of the invisible God, who restores intimacy with God and makes lesser loves lose their appeal.

What holds us back from doing what God asks? In Judges 4, God calls Deborah and Barak to free Israel from oppression, but Barak hesitates. This message explores the cost of passivity and how faithful action begins with trusting God.

Leviticus is one of the most overlooked books in the Bible, yet it carries a profound answer to one of the most important questions anyone can ask: how does an unholy person connect with a holy God? Built around the concept of holiness, the book moves through sacrifices, priestly ordination, and purity laws, all building toward one goal: bringing God's people from outside the tent of meeting to inside it. At the very center of Leviticus is the Day of Atonement, the moment when sins are forgiven. This is no coincidence. Atonement is the heartbeat of the Old Testament, and it points directly forward to Jesus Christ.In Leviticus 8, God instructs Moses to ordain Aaron as the high priest. Aaron was called by God, cleansed through sacrifice, and clothed in holy garments that identified his role as a mediator between the people and a holy God. Blood was placed on his right earlobe, his right thumb, and his right big toe, symbolizing a life devoted to hearing God, serving God, and walking with God. He wore a breastplate bearing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel, carrying the people over his heart every time he entered God's presence. Yet for all of this, Aaron was still a flawed man. He led the people into idolatry with the golden calf, proving that no human high priest could ever truly save anyone. He was an imperfect picture pointing toward something far greater.Jesus is the greater High Priest that Aaron could only foreshadow. He was chosen by the Father, lived without sin, and gave Himself as a ransom for all of humanity. Through Him, believers are no longer standing outside the tent but have become the very dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. First Peter 2:9 declares that every believer is part of a royal priesthood, called to proclaim the excellencies of God and invite others into His presence. Just as the high priest carried the names of God's people over his heart, believers today are called to carry the names of those around them in prayer and look for every opportunity to bring them closer to God.

In this passage, Paul urges believers to flee idolatry and examine what—or who—has our ultimate devotion. Join us as we explore what it means to choose Christ above everything else and to live with wholehearted faith in a world full of competing influences.

Title: BEARing the Burden of BaldnessScripture Reading: II Kings 2:23-25Series: Bizarre BibleTaylor Englund joins Pastor Bill to discuss if Elisha overreacted by cursing 42 boys for mocking his baldness, or if there is a deeper, cosmic meaning behind this bizarre Bible story. This episode unpacks the strange narrative of Elisha and the two bears, revealing it's more than a prophet's overreaction. It explores 4 "P"s: the "place" of Bethel, a center of idolatry, and Elisha as the "prophet," a new Joshua leading a spiritual conquest. The "perpetrators" were young adults challenging God's authority, leading to a divine "punishment" that validated Elisha's role in reclaiming God's cosmic territory through spiritual warfare. As members of God's royal family, we are called to continue Jesus' cosmic mission, revealing His victory and reclaiming spiritual territory by spreading the good news of His Kingdom.

Looking good isn't a sin—but when does self-improvement become self-worship? In this episode, we wrestle with one of the most relevant questions Christians face today: from BBLs and Botox to braces, veneers, and hair transplants, where should followers of Jesus draw the line? Join us as we explore what Scripture says about our bodies, our motives, and whether we're pursuing God's glory or the world's approval.John 7:241 Samuel 16:7Esther 2:7Genesis 29:17 Genesis 39:6 1 Samuel 9:2 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 1 Kings 6–7 2 Chronicles 3–4 1 Corinthians 10:23–24 1 Corinthians 10:31 1 Corinthians 8:9  1 Peter 3:3–4 Proverbs 31:30 Philippians 2:3–4 Galatians 1:10

In our last episode, we unfolded the revealing of the Ten Commandments to the nation of Israel after they were miraculously freed from Egyptian slavery. We observed how God powerfully reminded them that their deliverance came from Him, and how their loyalty to Him was to be reflected by the First Commandment's instruction of having no other gods before Him. As Christians, we were also rescued from the “slavery” of sin and death by God through the sacrifice of Jesus. We are therefore required to follow this Commandment and have our loyalty solely focused on God through Christ. The Second Commandment instructs us to have NO idols in our lives and builds squarely upon the First. Practically speaking, what does being idol-free look like? What are the dangers of not living up to this standard? Reject idolatry In this episode we see that the Second Commandment's call is to reject idolatry in every form. Idolatry begins internally, in the direction of the heart, and then becomes visible through what we “make,” “bow to” and “serve.” Idolatry can be described as a root sin that misdirects loyalty before any outward wrongdoing appears, creating patterns that can affect generations. Modern idols God warned Israel not to create images of anything in heaven, on earth, or in the sea, because they never saw God's form and were instead meant to be His living image. Idolatry is shown to be a shortcut, like the golden calf, offering quick reassurance instead of the slow, transformative work of trusting God. Modern idols may not be carved statues; they are often subtle, sophisticated and deeply embedded in daily life: ego, success, comfort, possessions, technology and even AI when used as a spiritual shortcut rather than a tool. The New Testament approach to idolatry can be summed up in Paul's approach in Acts 17, where he confronted a city full of idols with gentleness and respect. His method becomes a model for addressing idolatry both around us and within us, recognizing it, isolating it, repenting and returning to God's sovereignty. Idolatry appears repeatedly in New Testament “danger lists,” emphasizing its destructive power and its ability to quietly replace God as the source of validation and security. Ultimately, this Commandment calls Christians to spiritual awareness, honest self-examination and wholehearted loyalty to the God who cannot be contained, controlled or replaced. Key Takeaways Idolatry is a root sin: it misdirects the heart before any outward sin appears. The Second Commandment is an external action command, building on the internal loyalty of the First. Israel never saw God's form, so any image replaces His true nature with something man made. Modern idols are subtle: ego, success, comfort, possessions, technology, and even AI when used as a shortcut. Idols promise control and immediacy, but they shape us in their image rather than God's. Paul's approach in Acts 17 is a model: meet people where they are, speak gently and point them toward the true God. Self-examination is essential: identify what you “bow to” or “serve” emotionally or habitually. Keep idols out of your life. Repentance restores direction, bringing us back into the light and away from destructive patterns. Christians are God's temple, so idols have no rightful place in our lives.  

In the heart of every Christian single longing for marriage lies a beautiful desire placed there by God. Yet in our fallen world, even the best desires can quietly turn into idols. Many Christian singles find themselves anxiously scrolling dating apps, constantly comparing their lives to married friends, or pinning all their hopes on “the one.” This is idolatry in the pursuit of a spouse — when the good gift of marriage becomes more important than the Giver Himself. The […] The post 5 Ways to Avoid Idolatry in the Pursuit of a Spouse  appeared first on Christian Singles Advice | Christian Dating Advice Tips. Related posts: 5 Things to Do While Waiting on Your Spouse 8 Biblical Ways Christian Singles Can Date With Purpose and Find a Godly Spouse Becoming the Godly Spouse You Want to Marry Contentment in Singleness: Why You Should Avoid Comparing Yourself to Others How to Know You're Ready for a Spouse: A Guide for Christian Singles

Judges - Part 1Idolatry | Judges 2:6-23Big Idea: Keep yourself from idols.What are the signs of a compromised faith?1. Compromised faith forgets God's greatness (Judges 2:6-10)2. Compromised faith forgets God's ways (Judges 2:11-19)3. Compromised faith faces God's discipline (Judges 2:20-23)

In this message from our 1 Corinthians series, Joe Macnamara explores Paul's warning against idolatry, showing how the things we give our hearts to can quietly draw us away from wholehearted devotion to Jesus. Looking at 1 Corinthians 10, we're reminded that God is faithful, always providing a way to endure temptation and calling us to flee from anything that takes His place. As we gather around the Lord's table, we're invited to respond with repentance, gratitude and renewed commitment to Christ alone.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we wrapped up our weekly theme, "Living Free," focusing on being living dangerously Free. Dr. Sam Storms joined us to explore how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live boldly for Christ. Looking at Acts 4, we discussed what it means to be filled with the Spirit, trust God’s sovereignty, and find the courage to proclaim the gospel faithfully. Dr. Storms is the founder and president of Enjoying God Ministries and serves on the Council of the Gospel Coalition. The Director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Daniel Darling, also joined us to discuss Christian patriotism, civic responsibility, and how believers can love their country without turning politics or national identity into an idol.He wrote, “In Defense of Christian Patriotism.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Gospel Message - Karl [ 00:49 ]Dr. Sam Storms [ 26:46 ]Daniel Darling [ 41:19 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A hardened heart rarely happens all at once but develops through small compromises that dull sensitivity to God. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar examine why believers must fight daily to remain tender toward the Lord. Sin is deceptive, and the guys explain that hardened hearts often form through neglected prayer, delayed obedience, and unconfessed sin rather than through dramatic rebellion. They emphasize the importance of staying teachable, receiving correction humbly, and seeking truth. A soft heart is not automatic but cultivated through repentance, dependence on God, and a willingness to let His Word expose what lies beneath the surface.The guys explore the link between idolatry and spiritual hardness, explaining that every sin ultimately stems from worshiping something other than God. Whether it is pleasure, bitterness, self-pity, or even legalism, misplaced worship slowly turns the heart away from Christ. The guys warn that Christians can smuggle idols into their lives, even into acts of worship, while believing they remain in control. Idolatry is never passive, and over time it shapes affections, priorities, and responses to both God and others. The conversation highlights how even good things become dangerous when they take the place reserved for the Lord alone.The discussion turns to the urgency of confession and repentance. The guys explain that delaying action on sin only strengthens its grip. They encourage believers to look past the messenger and focus on the truth presented, seeking out the small areas where correction may be warranted rather than immediately defending themselves. Self-pity often becomes fertile ground for bitterness and hardness, especially when people believe others owe them something. Instead, the guys encourage listeners to forgive quickly, walk in the light, and cultivate gratitude even amid trials. Repentance is presented not as punishment but as a gift that leads believers back into fellowship with God.Finally, the guys discuss practical ways believers can guard their hearts and stay sensitive to the Spirit. Spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Scripture, fasting, discipleship, and intentional silence help keep the heart tender before the Lord. The fear of God, regular self-examination, and continual meditation on the gospel all help protect believers from drifting. Ultimately, the guys point listeners back to Christ, whose tender heart on the cross displayed perfect forgiveness and reminds believers that every battle against hardness finds its answer in the gospel.Send us Fan MailThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Isaiah 2:10-22 shifts the focus from the future peace of God's kingdom to the sobering reality of God's judgment on human pride. In this episode, we explore how Isaiah calls people to humble themselves before the Lord, recognizing that earthly achievements, idols, and self-reliance cannot stand in the day of God's glory. This passage reminds us that God alone is worthy of exaltation and trust.

Isaiah 2:5-22 moves from an invitation to a warning. God calls His people to walk in His light, yet Judah chose compromise, idolatry, wealth, military strength, and human wisdom instead. Isaiah reminds us that a day is coming when every source of human pride will be brought low and the Lord alone will be exalted. This episode explores how the same temptations still exist today. Are we trusting God, or are we placing our confidence in money, possessions, influence, politics, technology, or ourselves? Join us as we discover why God calls His people to walk faithfully with Him before the Day of the Lord arrives.

Text the Show⭐️Affiliate item of the week: From Eden to AI: How Fallen Angels and Ancient Idolatry are Ensnaring Humanity Through Modern Technology: https://amzn.to/4y4XnRPCould the Idols of Old Be Returning, Disguised in Artificial Intelligence?Are we witnessing the return of ancient idols disguised as cutting-edge technology? Do you sense the growing unease that A.I. is more than algorithms and code—that it carries a spiritual agenda beyond human understanding? As the world races toward a new digital utopia, are we unknowingly bowing to the same false gods that deceived humanity in ages past?The same spirit that lured mankind to worship stones and stars now beckons us through silicon chips and neural nets.Through years of prayer, study, and prophetic discernment, researcher and Bible teacher Vicki Joy Anderson uncovered the chilling parallels between ancient black stones, fallen angel technology, and today's artificial intelligence revolution. This breakthrough resource reveals the hidden hand guiding humanity toward a technological tower of Babel—while offering believers scriptural wisdom, discernment, and hope. Vicki's website: https://www.vickijoyanderson.com/ What if the world ended... and nobody noticed? What if history changed, but only some people remembered the way it used to be? SUPPORTBuy Me A Coffee http://buymeacoffee.com/DangerousinfopodcastSubscribeStar http://bit.ly/42Y0qM8Super Chat Tip https://bit.ly/42W7iZHBuzzsprout https://bit.ly/3m50hFTPaypal http://bit.ly/3Gv3ZjpPatreon http://bit.ly/3G3 SMART is the acronym that was created by technocrats that have setup the "internet of things" that will eventually enslave humanity to their needs. Support the showLeave Voicemail: https://www.speakpipe.com/DangerousInfoWebsite https://www.dangerousinfopodcast.com/Discord chatroom: https://discord.gg/8feGHQQmwgEmail the show dangerousinfopodcast@protonmail.comJoin mailing list http://bit.ly/3Kku5YtWatch LiveYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@DANGEROUSINFOPODCASTRumble https://bit.ly/4q1Mg7Z Twitch https://www.twitch.tv/dangerousinfopodcastPilled.net https://pilled.net/profile/144176  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DangerousInfoPodcast/SocialsInstagram https://www.instagram.com/dangerousinfo/TwitterX https://twitter.com/jaymz_jesseYouTube https://bit.ly/436VExnFacebook https://bit.ly/4gZbjVa

"You might ask, 'What is wrong with a little flag waving or a pledge to the nation of our birth?' Nothing! But to center American nationalism in the church is to marginalize the Lordship of Jesus. It demands that God share his place of supremacy with the flag. It fools us into calling this Empire, 'home.' It tricks us into worshipping the blessing of living where we live, rather than worshipping the one who has blessed us with this opportunity. Let us remove all politics and nationalism from the church; and concentrate on following the words and way of Jesus - no matter what else might happen in our community or in our nation."  

IT'S HERE! Pre-Order the 4th installment of the Ashtown Burial Series at ashtownburials.com.In this episode, Douglas Wilson considers the Supreme Court's birthright-citizenship decision and possible paths forward, examines the sin of making and worshiping the golden calf, and reviews Kurt Vonnegut's practical writing advice in Pity the Reader. For more from Doug, subscribe to Canon+: https://canonplus.com/  

"Ten Conversations: How to Protect Your Heart from Idolatry" by Pastor Quinton Self was recorded on Sunday, June 28th, 2026, during service at The Anchor Church in Rockport, Maine. SERMON NOTES Read sermon notes from other great sermons: https://theanchor.me/sermon-notes/ Subscribe to The ANCHOR Church podcast on iTunes to receive automatic downloads of new episodes and listen to previously recorded sermons. https://apple.co/2u1UBkj

Here's a thought-provoking quote that I recently ran across from Ralph Waldo Emerson - “A person will worship something, have no doubt about that. That which dominates our imaginations and our thoughts will determine our lives and our character. Therefore, it behooves us to be careful what we worship, for what we are worshipping we are becoming.” You may now be wondering why I would use time on a spot about today's youth culture to share an old quote from someone who's not living. Well, there's great wisdom in Emerson's words, wisdom that holds true for our kids and even ourselves as we live in today's world. You see, all kinds of potential idols jockey for our attention and allegiance. And even though we claim to be followers and worshippers of Jesus Christ, it's easy to slip into worship of something else. Take a look at your life. What do you worship? And what are you modeling for your kids? 

Dear friends,Idolatry is as ancient and universal as slavery. Paul moves in his discussion of food offered to idols (chapter 8) to his enslaving himself for others' salvation (chapter 9) to now address idolatry itself (chapter 10). Here we have the clear command, “flee from idolatry”, with the terrifying examples of God's anger poured out on Israel whenever they engaged in idolatry.This passage not only gives us clear Bible teachings on the sin of idolatry, but in the process it raises the issue of the Old Testament's importance for Christians.Two Ways News is provided free of charge by other people's generosity. If you are not yet one of those kindly providing Two Ways News for others, can I encourage you to do so? You can find out more here.Yours,PhillipFreely available, supported by generosity.If you enjoy Two Ways News, why not lend us a hand? Consider joining our Supporters Club—friends who make it possible for us to keep producing this article/podcast. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.twoways.news/subscribe

Pastor Sam          1 Corinthians  8:1 - 9:27

Series: N/AService: Sunday WorshipType: Bible MessageSpeaker: Eric Nations

Sermon

In this study through 1 Kings 11, Pastor Paul looks at the sad turn in Solomon's story, a king given wisdom, wealth, and peace by God who still let his heart wander. Solomon loved many foreign wives, and over time their influence pulled him toward worshiping other gods, even after God had spoken to him plainly and warned him twice. His story raises an honest question for anyone listening: what do we love most, and what are we willing to compromise to keep it? Money, approval, comfort, or relationships can all quietly become things we depend on more than God, even without us noticing. The good news is that God offers grace to see our hearts clearly and to turn back before those quiet loves take root and cost us everything that matters most.

This episode was recorded live in Orlando during our Handlebar night event. Aaron and SB sit down with dear mentor and friend Michael Koulianos and answer the question: “How do you steward something like a creative gift or purpose you've been given without letting creativity become your identity?” (Submitted by Allison, 26, Los Angeles) Check out our website, Thehandlebarpodcast.com for more information, merch, how to partner with us and more. You can subscribe to our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@thehandlebarpodcastYou can purchase BIG JESUS here: https://upperroom.store/products/big-jesus

JT's Mix Tape Episode 86Is artificial intelligence really making life better—or is it changing how we perceive reality?In Episode 86 of JT's Mix Tape, the crew discusses AI deception, Oliver Tree, Antarctica mysteries, buried Roman cities, Palm Beach Pete, strange Google Translate discoveries, and whether the internet is becoming impossible to trust.Topics include: • AI generated deception • Underground cities • Antarctica mysteries • Oliver Tree • Palm Beach Pete • Ancient Roman discoveries • McDonald's built over archaeological ruins • Google Translate anomalies • Modern propagandaLike, Subscribe and Share!Chapters 00:00 The Purpose Behind AI Tools 02:05 Cultural Commentary on Food and Health 03:48 Controversial Figures and Their Influence 08:02 Security Failures and Accountability 12:02 The Nature of Idolatry in Modern Society 17:58 Language Manipulation and Hidden Messages 24:59 The Return of Epstein's Legacy 26:38 Hollywood's Influence and Celebrity Culture 32:38 The Mystery of Palm Beach Pete 38:03 Uncovering History Beneath Fast Food 43:17 Living Underground: Survival or Suspicion? 48:40 Conspiracies and Celebrity Deaths 56:24 The Madoff Scandal and Its Impact 01:00:04 The Nature of Fame and Financial Success 01:03:04 AI, Reality, and the Blurring Lines 01:08:57 Demonic Possession and the Influence of Media 01:20:01 The Alien Phenomenon and Public Perception 01:32:57 The Geometry of Crop Circles 01:35:05 Energy and Patterns in Nature 01:36:00 Human vs. Supernatural Creation 01:37:55 The Alien Connection 01:39:20 Doomsday Predictions and Their Impact 01:41:35 The Nature of Prophecy 01:43:00 The Importance of Heart Posture 01:44:55 Misinterpretations and Fear in Belief 01:46:42 The Obelisk Mystery 01:52:05 The Truth Behind History 01:59:55 The Disconnect in Historical NarrativesresourcesModern Roots Life - https://modernrootslife.com The Rosetta Stone - Ancient Egypt - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosetta_Stone Bernie Madoff - The Largest Ponzi Scheme - https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/ponzi_scheme.asp Crop Circles and Their Mysteries - https://www.history.com/topics/paranormal/crop-circles Ancient Obelisks and Their Significance - https://www.britannica.com/topic/obelisk The Great Reset and Hidden Agendas - https://www.zerohedge.com/political/great-reset-explained AI and Deepfake Technology - https://www.wired.com/story/ai-deepfakes-fake-news/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/jt-s-mix-tape--6579902/support.Please support our sponsor Modern Roots Life: https://modernrootslife.com/?bg_ref=rVWsBoOfcFPatreon: https://patreon.com/JT_Follows_JC?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLinkJESUS SAID THERE WOULD BE HATERS: https://jtfollowsjc.com/product-category/mens-shirts/JT's Hats: https://jtfollowsjc.com/product-category/hats/Coaching Program: https://www.echoesoftruthnetwork.com/joinTelegram Group: https://t.me/jtsmixtapeNew Trucker Hat: https://www.shopmmca.com/shop/p/jt-follows-jc-hat

Topical Sermons / Speaker:Berry Kercheville Can We Change Habits, Orientations, & Addictions? Introduction: Last year, my wife and I took our three young grandchildren to the local library in Glendale, AZ. While my wife was playing some games with the kids and choosing books, I was looking at the children's books prominently displayed on the top of book shelves for 5-8 year olds (the age of our grandchildren). The books were promoting the LGBTQ community. I scanned each of the books, but read one book completely. In the book, two adults were trying to get a 6-year old to join a Pride parade. The girl was quite hesitant, but her adult companions kept urging until she joined in. The book ends with her being happy about her decision and enjoying all the dancing and frolicking in the parade. Obviously, there were numerous drawings throughout the book, including “trans,” drag queens, and even nudity. The adults even told the child that the wonder of the parade was that everyone be whatever they want to be.  This is only one of many events in which the LGBTQ community pushes corporations to advertise and demand that people accept them and cheer for them. Of course, they refuse to accept anyone who disagrees with their beliefs, but instead calls them haters and racist. The foundation of their beliefs and activities resides in the belief that they were born with whatever desire or orientation that they have and that it is unfair and unloving to expect them to change.  Therefore, the question: How can God expect us to change habits, orientations, and addictions that in many cases seem to be things we were born with and identify us.  The Nature of Sin 1 Corinthians 10:13-14 “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.”  No one has a unique temptation. While each individual may not have the exact same temptations, your temptations and my temptations are also common throughout all people in the world. Therefore, no one can say, “You just can't understand how difficult my temptation is.” No, there is nothing “special” about the sins that you struggle with.  God has restraints on Satan (just like in the book of Job) that keep him from giving you temptations that would overwhelm you or make it impossible for you to overcome. God takes into account your ability, which would include where you are in your spiritual growth. God will be faithful to you by providing you a way of escape so that you can endure the trial. Therefore, with every temptation there is an “out,” a means by which you can defeat Satan's trial. Satan is strong, but he is not so strong that you cannot defeat him. If you rationalize your sin and say that it is impossible for you to overcome it, you are accusing God of being unfaithful.  Verse 14 offers one of the ways to escape: flee! The desires for sin will be greatly weakened if we will limit our exposure to it. Idolatry is the root of every sin. Temptations always urge us to bow down to them, give them priority, and understand that without the sin we cannot be “whole.” In fact, without the sin we will be miserable the rest of our lives! Proverbs 6:27 “Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned?” Can You Become What God Intended You to Be? 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you.”  There is no question from this text that no one who practices these sins will inherit the kingdom of heaven. To think otherwise or to rationalize that you were born with some unique desire that means God will give you a pass, is to be deceived. It is also clear from this text that there were Christians who in their former life practiced a wide range of sins. For some, sexual immorality and adultery were part of their lifestyle. These sins are what defined them; it is who they were and how how they desired to live. And we know that these sexual sins are strongly addictive. Others, were alcoholics. Scripture never says that alcoholism is a disease or illness. It is a sin; a strongly addictive sin. It is the primary reason that we should stay away from it. Some were thieves and swindlers. We know about people like that. They are always looking for a way to get something for nothing. They are always trying to find a way to cheat someone. It isn't an easy lifestyle to change. Some in the church at Corinth practiced homosexuality. Just like heterosexual adulterers, that was their orientation. But no matter, all of these sins listed were part of the mental desires and addictions that a wide variety of people had, even in the NT churches. Now notice the concluding sentence: “and such were some of you.” The past tense is notable. These are the sins some of you “practiced,” not just committed, but practiced as a lifestyle. Does this mean that once they came out of the waters of baptism the desires they had suddenly vanished? Of course not! But what did happen was that a stronger desire replaced their old desires. And as long as they pursued and built on those positive desires, the old desires would fade into the background. While it is true that none of us can forget our sins, as we grow in Christ the former addictive sins become more and more despicable to us. It is a major error for any of us to reason that just because I still struggle with certain desires (as all do), it doesn't mean it is too difficult to overcome those sins or that God should just understand and accept me the way I am. God's Key to Change Is the Mind (Colossians 2:21–3:10) One of the primary keys to this text is the contrast between 2:21-23 and 3:1-4. Submitting to outward rules that seems to give a message of holiness (like simply praying and attending a church) without truly pursuing God, will not solve that desires of the flesh. The Catholic example of Lent would be an example of this today. But we can make the same mistake when we think being “faithful” to attend church and pray to God regularly will solve our “desires of the flesh” problem. Thus, Paul's first answer to the indulgences of the flesh is to “seek the things that are above.” This is absolutely the first and primary failure of those who finally cave into their struggle with sin, and then excuse themselves and say, “I was just born this way.” Seeking what is “above” is a rejection of seeking what is below! It is impossible to seek what is above while seeking that which is earthly. That is what James called “double-minded.” Therefore, what do we expect when at the same time we are going to church and praying, we are still telling ourselves, “this is just how I was born?” When I decided to pursue God, rejecting earthly passions and pursuits, even those that weren't inherently sinful, was absolutely necessary.  Second, Paul added, “Set your minds on things above…” First seek, then get your mind set on the things above. That means our minds are permanently immovable from what is above. It is the highest pursuit and primarily what we think about, desire, and love. That naturally happens because, God and all that he offers is far more satisfying than anything on earth. As God said in Isaiah 55, “My ways are higher than your ways.”  But there is something else that must happen when we seek and set our minds on things above. We need to reboot and reconfigure our minds. Paul uses the words “be renewed in the spirit of your minds” Ephesians 4:23). Therefore, the key to the reboot is seen in Hebrews 4:12-13, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.” Paul gives one other key to getting our minds on things above: “For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” In other words, quit thinking that you are living your life. It isn't your life. Your life is gone. That “you” is dead. These words identify the problem when a person goes out to find themselves or discover their identity based on their personal feelings and desires. This isn't your life! You are owned by the one who created you and gave his life for you as a ransom for your sins. Quit thinking about the dead “you” and put your mind on the “you” in glory. Note the words in verse 4, “When Christ who is your life appears…” That's the key. Christ is your life. Verses 5-10 give us the crowning point. “Put to death therefore what is earthly…” Now when you read that and then read the sins we are to put to death, do you feel like giving those sins up and relegating them to the grave forever? Of course not! But if you do put those things to death, your feelings will follow. You cannot wait for your feelings to get into gear before you start obedience! If you hope for that, you will wait forever! God Causes Transformation—Practical Applications 1 John 5:2-3, “His commandments are not grievous/burdensome.”   Matthew 11:25-30  Vs. 25 “…you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes Father, for such was your gracious will.” The key to change is humbling ourselves as little children. We need complete trust, ridding ourselves of pursuing our own wisdom and understanding. Vs. 28 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden…” Is that not our condition when we are in the midst of being overwhelmed with our own desires and addictions? Jesus will give us rest!  Vs. 29 “Learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Jesus has compassion for us in our struggles against sin. Vs. 30 “…my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” What Jesus is asking of us is not too hard. What he is asking is “light” in comparison with living our way and following Satan. Clarification: Does this mean that I can rid myself of all evil desires so that I never have to struggle with them again?  Not only is that not going to happen, it is not the goal. None of us forget the sins of our past.  We all suffer the consequences of our past sins in that once we ate the forbidden fruit, we developed a memory and taste for it. In other words, sin inflames our desires, and the more those desires are fulfilled, the more difficult they are to overcomes. Addictions are real no matter the sin!  When God is pursued and becomes our number one passion, sinful desires weaken over time, but not immediately! It takes time for the mind to be “renewed” just as it took time to create the strong desires. Berry Kercheville The post Can We Change Habits, Orientation, and Addictions? appeared first on Woodland Hills Church of Christ.

Today on Uncommon Sense, we're taking a deeper look at the Israel-Iran conflict, the continuing questions surrounding the Epstein files, and the assassination of Charlie Kirk. We'll discuss why these stories continue to dominate public conversation, explore the political and geopolitical questions people are asking, and examine why these events should be viewed together rather than in isolation.--https://www.youversion.com/bible-app

Willie and Korie get dragged into a bizarre AI-generated baby hoax, and Al, Zach, and Jase dig into the creepy new world of artificial intelligence, from fake relationships and AI “friends” to people using chatbots to justify sin. The guys connect the modern AI echo chamber to James' warning about deception, and Jase points to Cain, Abel and the Holy Spirit as the difference between artificial intelligence and real life with God. In this episode: James 1, verse 11; John 8; Genesis 1, verse 28; Isaiah 40, verses 3–31; James 1, verse 18; Genesis 4; Romans 8, verses 1–23; Ephesians 1, verses 13–14; John 14–16; 1 Peter 1, verse 24; Proverbs 3, verse 9; Proverbs 8; Leviticus 23, verse 10; Exodus 23, verse 19 “Unashamed” Episode 1363 is sponsored by: https://myphdweightloss.com — Find out how Al lost 80+ pounds. Visit the website or call 864-644-1900 and mention "Al Robertson" to get 2 weeks free in the program! https://chministries.org/unashamed — Get a better solution at half the cost of traditional healthcare! https://preborn.com/unashamed — Visit the PreBorn! website or dial #250 and use keyword BABY to donate today. https://unashamedgold.com — Get a free 2026 Gold & Silver Guide and a no obligation consultation! http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ — Sign up now for free, and join the Unashamed hosts every Friday for Unashamed Academy Powered by Hillsdale College Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://open.spotify.com/show/3LY8eJ4ZBZHmsImGoDNK2l 00:00 Why Lies Spread So Fast Online 05:00 AI is Replacing Human Connection 12:15 A Shocking True-Crime Story about Deception 17:50 Using AI to Justify Sin & Win Arguments 24:25 The Human Need for Embodied Life 32:37 Isaiah 40, Firstfruits & a New Creation 39:08 Idolatry is Self-Worship 45:15 Divine Intelligence versus Artificial Intelligence 52:55 If You Follow God, Your Life Will Prove it - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jason shares how Caitlin Clark and George Floyd are bound by a victimhood mentality. A mentality that has ruined the meteoric rise of Clark. ➢ Subscribe to Jason's other channel https://www.youtube.com/JasonWhitlock?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.youtube.com/@JasonWhitlockHarmony?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.youtube.com/@JasonWhitlockBYOG?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.youtube.com/@JasonWhitlockClips?sub_confirmation=1 ➢ Connect with Jason on Social Media:  https://x.com/JasonWhitlock  https://www.instagram.com/realjasonwhitlock/ https://www.facebook.com/jasonwhitlock ➢ Send Jason an Email FearlessBlazeShow@gmail.com ➢ Support The Blaze Visit https://TheBlaze.com. Explore the all-new ad-free experience and see for yourself how we're standing up against suppression and prioritizing independent journalism. Support Conservative Voices! Subscribe to BlazeTV at https://www.fearlessmission.com and get $20 off your yearly subscription. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We hope you enjoy today's Scripture reading and devotional aimed at motivating you to apply God's word while strengthening your heart and nurturing your soul. Today's Bible reading is Jeremiah 10. To read along with the podcast, grab a print copy of the devotional. ESV Bible narration read by Kristyn Getty. Follow us on social media to stay up to date: Instagram Facebook Twitter

Are the icons actually idols that violate the biblical prohibition on images? In this episode, Jacobs explores the historical debate surrounding this practice, highlighting how John of Damascus defended the use of images based on the Incarnation, along with his distinction between venerating holy objects and worshiping them. Finally, we look at whether these iconic practices were later deviations or deeply rooted within early Christianity.======================================Do you like this content? Join Jacobs Premium to get exclusive access to essays, lecture series, monthly Q&A Zoom calls, and our book club. Use code: LEWIS to get a discount: https://www.thenathanjacobspodcast.com/Support the East West Series: http://theeastwestseries.com/======================================Relevant Links:Essence-Energies Episode: https://youtu.be/lO1rAzvK3lQRessurection Episode: https://youtu.be/Pwgm-7d2O2kArticles on John of Damascus:https://www.academia.edu/41586795/John_of_Damascushttps://www.academia.edu/41586562/John_of_Damascus_and_His_Defense_of_IconsLetter on Early Christianity and Icons: https://theologicalletters.com/p/were-the-earliest-christians-iconoclasts?utm_source=publication-searchAll links:The Theological Letters (Substack): https://nathanajacobs.substack.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenathanjacobspodcastX: https://x.com/NathanJacobsPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/nathanandrewjacobsAcademia: https://vanderbilt.academia.edu/NathanAJacobsListen and please review the podcast elsewhere:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hSskUtCwDT40uFbqTk3QSApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nathan-jacobs-podcast

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Steve and the crew discuss the conclusion of the saga involving a handful of San Francisco Giants pitchers, what they decided to do on their team's Pride Night, the reaction, the victorious conclusion, and why what they did is so needed in today's world. J. Chase Davis joins the show to discuss his new book, "Offensive Christianity," challenging men to put down their resentment and live their lives as God intended. In Hour Two, Idolatry or Not is a hodgepodge of clips the crew reacts to. Pop Culture Tuesday asks whether "Supergirl" is already destined to flop. TODAY'S SPONSORS: MIRACLE MADE SHEETS: https://try.miraclebrand.co/sheets/ksp-v15?utm_source=Podcast_deace&utm_medium=Podcasting&utm_campaign=deace&color=stone FREEDOM PROJECT ACADEMY: https://fpeusa.org/ RAYCON: 20% off! https://rayconglobal.com/pages/steve?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=influencer&utm_campaign=steve&nb_platform=partner-lp&nb_ppid=podcast&nb_cpid=steve GHOSTBED: https://www.ghostbed.com/pages/steve?utm_medium=influencer&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=steve code STEVE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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There is something directing your life. You’re not doing this on your own. You’re either under the influence of the world and the flesh, or you’re under the influence of the Holy Spirit. One of these guides your thoughts, your attitude, your perspective and your actions – and your life looks radically different depending on your influencing factors. Look around my friend – if you aren’t pleased with what’s growing in your life, it may be a result of what you’re attached to – because whatever you’re attached to is drastically influencing every area of your life. Paul writes in Galatians and tells us of what is naturally produced in our lives when we’re attached to Jesus. Growing in Jesus means God’s Holy Spirit is influencing you. Under the influence of the Holy Spirit, you are different than you would be on your own. Different things grow in your life. You are given a different perspective with different priorities. And the beautiful thing is, it happens so naturally. This isn’t something you will or force, it just grows. We’re given a list of 9 fruits that grow in our lives as a result of the direction of the Holy Spirit and it’s inner influence: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-Control. These are the fruits of the Holy Spirit, meaning what grows from connection. And really think about the real life circumstances and struggles you woke up to today – what you need to face this is right here within the list of things that grow from within you when you’re connected to Jesus. Your answer … CONNECT TO JESUS! You don’t have to force this. You don’t have to pretend to be someone you’re not. The Holy Spirit will work within you to produce precisely what is needed and it will come from inside you, naturally producing in your life. Now maybe you’ve heard of the Fruits of the Spirit before. Maybe you even have them memorized and can ramble them off. Maybe this is brand new to you. Awesome. This is for you. Exactly where you are, in this season of life, with what you’re facing. Love for you. Joy for you. Peace for you. Patience for you. Kindness for you. Goodness for you. Faithfulness for you. Gentleness for you. Self-Control for you. I bet you can identify someone in your life who needs this too, huh? Someone who is lacking joy. Someone lacking peace. Someone living without kindness or faithfulness or self-control. What is happening in their life? Maybe that was you at one time. Or maybe that is a current struggle. Why is that? Scripture is actually quite clear. We don’t have to guess and wonder. When you lack the things that grow in our lives under the direction of the Holy Spirit it’s because you’re NOT under the direction of the Holy Spirit. You’re not connected to Jesus. You’re connected to the world and you’re under the influence of your flesh. We don’t have to hate the person who is without kindness and goodness, we have to see it for what it is. This is a hurting soul who either has never connected to Jesus or has become disconnected. We must love them enough to point them back to Jesus and back to his life-giving connection. Back to the direction of the Holy Spirit. It’s not our responsibility to change them. That’s the job of God’s Holy Spirit. YOU ARE NOT THEIR HOLY SPIRIT. Before we jump into the Fruits of the Spirit and this list of beauty that naturally begins to grow in our lives through connection with Jesus, we have to know about the other side of the list. You see there are two very clear lists. A list of what your life looks like WITHOUT the direction of the Holy Spirit and WITH the direction of the Holy Spirit. If you were to take a piece of paper and draw a line down the center, you would have two columns. On the left you could label that column “Without the Holy Spirit”. On the right you could label that column “With the Holy Spirit”. The column on the left is described in Galatians 5: 19-21. The column on the right is described in Galatians 5: 22-23. Let’s begin with making the list in the left column. Galatians 5: 19-21, When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: • Sexual immorality • Impurity • Lustful pleasures • Idolatry • Sorcery • Hostility • Quarreling • Jealousy • Outbursts of Anger • Selfish Ambition • Dissension • Division • Envy • Drunkenness • Wild Parties • Other Sins Like These Well that was yucky, wasn’t it? Yip, that’s what our lives become without the influence of God’s Holy Spirit. This is what we naturally get ourselves into. Our nature is sinful and leads us into some absolutely yucky things in our lives. Look around … there it is. We can see it in our own life or in the life of someone we love. Why has this happened, why do they act that way, why do they continue to do these things … because as verse 19 says, they have “followed the desires of their sinful nature and the results are very clear.” You’ve been asking why. That’s why, my friend. This is a matter of influence. The wrong influence creates the wrong results. The wrong direction grows the wrong fruit. For anyone with the wrong fruit growing in their lives, this is a matter of the wrong influence coming through the wrong connection. Maybe not a bad person, a bad connection. Have you ever traveled internationally and tried to plug your electrical device into a foreign outlet? It doesn’t fit. If you force it, you’ll blow something up. You could burn the whole building down! Some of us have lives burning down around us because we’ve plugged into the wrong thing. We’re connecting to things we simply weren’t created to be connected to. Over the next few weeks we’re going to do a deep dive on the divinely beautiful things that grow in our lives when we’re connected to Jesus and abiding in him. We’re going to grow in this process. It’s going to be so good for us to see the works of the Holy Spirit that happen so naturally in our connection. But first, we’re going to look at the column on the left. The yuck. The consequences. This is where you life will be without Jesus. Very clearly, this is what happens. Verse 19 in the NLT says “When you follow the desires of your sinful nature …” NIV says, “These are the acts of the flesh …” MSG puts it like this, “It’s obvious what type of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time …” There it is – when we try to do this on our own, when we do what we want, follow our own feelings, focused on self, letting our flesh lead the way, these are the messes we create for ourselves and others. Maybe you’re in one of those messes right now, either self-created or created by someone else. You’re living in that left hand column all while the Holy Spirit is inviting you to jump to the other side of the page and get on the right side. Is that possible? Absolutely! That change can begin today. Looking at our column on the left listed in verses 19-21, there are a few words we may not fully understand. So, let’s not skim over them, let’s understand. The first 3 are all sexual sins: Sexual immorality, Impurity, Lustful pleasures. These are things we all fall into without the direction of God’s Holy Spirit within us. It’s natural. We get all twisted up. We seek love in the wrong places and boy do we find it in all the wrong ways. There, we get stuck in tangled webs and suck others into that web of destruction. The next word on the left side are may be a little more unclear: Idolatry. It’s easy to assume that’s not us, nor is it anyone we love … but often it is. Idolatry is putting anything or anyone above God. Anything that gets God’s place becomes our idol. Anything we value more, anything we trust more, anything we seek first. Our spouses can become our idol. Our jobs can become our idol. Our image, our money, our hobbies can become our idols. And guess what – that happens so naturally in this world. Without the direct influence of the Holy Spirit, we are making stars our guide, we’re allowing horoscopes make our decisions, and putting flawed humans on pedestals thinking they hold our answers. Jesus is calling us back. Back to connection with him. Our lives naturally change when we connect with him. Recognize what is growing in your life – if it’s on the left side realize you’re on the wrong side, connecting to the wrong thing that is threatening to burn your whole life down. Your answer, CONNECT WITH JESUS. Let the Holy Spirit become your guide and influence. Follow Pamela on Instagram – https://instagram.com/headmamapamela Or Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pamela.crim Find out more about BIG Life – http://biglifehq.com

Father speaks today about Idol Worship.

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Fr. Patrick preached this homily on June 20, 2026. The readings are from 2 Chronicles 24:17-25, Psalm 89:4-5, 29-30, 31-32, 33-34, Matthew 6:24-34 (Saturday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time). Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/