Podcasts about if jesus

“But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.” (Mark 13:32) This verse has always been difficult to understand. If Jesus ... More...

Thursday, March 12, 2026E24: Do You Want to Be Well?Introduction:I invite you to reflect on the question Jesus posed to the man at the pool of Bethesda: "Do you want to be well?". Join me as I guide you through a moment of spiritual reflection and growth.Scripture Reading:John 5: 6, 8Meditation:Find a quiet space free from distractions and focus on your breathing, inviting the presence of God, centering your hearts to hear God's word.Reflection Prompts:1. In what areas of your life do you feel spiritually unwell or in need of healing?2. How long have you been striving to address these areas on your own, without fully surrendering them to Jesus?3. If Jesus were to command you to rise, take up your mat, and walk, what changes would you need to make in your life? Are you ready to embrace these changes?Join me daily in this sacred journey through Lent and experience the transformative power of God's grace in your life.Your Feedback Matters:I'd love to hear from you! I've created a short listener survey to learn about your experience with the podcast. It takes just a couple of minutes, and if you leave your email at the end, I'll send you a free Lenten reflection resource to guide your prayer and meditation.Take the Survey Here:https://bit.ly/bythewellpodcastsurveyOr reach me directly at: praybythewell@gmail.comSupport the Podcast:The best way to help Seasons By the Well reach more listeners is to RATE & REVIEW on your podcast app. Your review helps others find this community of reflection and prayer.Optional Bonus for Reviews:As a small thank-you, if you leave a review, you can receive a special bonus resource (name of resource to be added). Simply send a screenshot of your review to praybythewell@gmail.com, subject: Podcast Review, and I'll send the resource to you.Stay Connected:Follow me on Instagram @_bythewell for additional inspiration, behind-the-scenes thoughts, and daily reflections we can share together.https://www.instagram.com/_bythewell/About the Podcast:Each episode of Seasons By the Well: Lenten Reflections and Meditations offers daily reflections, guided meditations, and practical opportunities for personal growth and prayer throughout the Lenten season.

Most of us are doing our best to do it all on our own. We're juggling our dreams and other's expectations, work, relationships, finances, health. It's overwhelming; often leaving us wondering if we have what it takes to keep going. With every passing week, we push harder and cope longer just to keep our head above water. Is this just the way it is? We wish we were better, stronger, greater, and more self-sufficient than we are. But despite how much we try, we don't feel any more at peace. Ever think, “If Jesus were sitting right next to me, I'd be so much more confident and capable.” His first followers experienced that to be true. Then one day, he turned and said, “It'd be even better for you if I went away.” What? That can't be right! But what if it is? Could that promise be true for everyone, even you? It seems to be. What if learning to connect to God's Spirit is the secret weapon you've been waiting for all along? We're going to show you how

Most of us are doing our best to do it all on our own. We're juggling our dreams and other's expectations, work, relationships, finances, health. It's overwhelming; often leaving us wondering if we have what it takes to keep going. With every passing week, we push harder and cope longer just to keep our head above water. Is this just the way it is? We wish we were better, stronger, greater, and more self-sufficient than we are. But despite how much we try, we don't feel any more at peace. Ever think, “If Jesus were sitting right next to me, I'd be so much more confident and capable.” His first followers experienced that to be true. Then one day, he turned and said, “It'd be even better for you if I went away.” What? That can't be right! But what if it is? Could that promise be true for everyone, even you? It seems to be. What if learning to connect to God's Spirit is the secret weapon you've been waiting for all along? We're going to show you how

1. Tim taught about Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, explaining how radical his intentional choices to both be in Samaria, and to ask for water from the Samaritan woman were in his time. Tim said, “If Jesus is going to travel through Samaria, it's for theological and relational reason - not logistical ones.”What social divides and imaginary partitions exist in your social circles or environments that might serve as modern parallels to the taboos that divided the 1st century Judean & Samaritan children of Judaism? Spend some time thoughtfully considering and discussing the nuances of possible parallels. What's aligns? What's different? How do those things impact your experience of the divides you identified? Having identified & explored possible modern analogs to the enmity and division between the Jews & Samaritans of Jesus' time, consider now what possible analogs exist to the idea of Jesus' journey into Samaria, his exchange with the woman, and the days he ended up staying there with the Samaritan people. What might possible equivalents be in your own social spheres and world? What might it be like to cross into one of those areas or take some of those taboo steps? How do you feel about the idea? Where and why do you feel resistance? Where are there places of openness to the idea?2. Tim talked about some possible symbolic interpretations of the fact that the woman leaves her water jar at the well while she goes to tell the townspeople about Jesus and her encounter with him. One interpretation centered on the idea of the woman leaving behind the social structures and strictures that had abandoned her to a life that required her to make off-hour, solo trips to the well. Another interpretation centered around water and her thirst for love, community, belonging, safety, and so much more. “Her inner thirst for the good life,” Tim said. When you think of this scene as the woman, who has been outcast, leaving any number of symbolic things behind, what resonates most? Are there ways in which you feel or have felt at times that connecting with and receiving from Jesus enable you to leave behind some of your own burden? In those moments are you ever, like the woman, then impelled to share about the living water and how it's changing you?3. Tim's also spent some time addressing an inevitable question: why isn't God doing something about all the mess and chaos and injustice of the world? The answer John presents in this story, Tim said, is that he has done something. And that something was, in short, Jesus. How do you respond to the idea that when we might sometimes her the sentiment that, “God has a plan,” the truth as presented in this story, might be “we are the plan,” or even, “you are the plan?” What feelings and thoughts surface for you? Explore the idea, and spend a little time discussing its practical application and the reality of it in our world today. Tim said early in his sermon that this answer might be both comforting and unsettling. How is it for you?

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION “There is a price to pay for speaking the truth. There is a bigger price for living a lie.”~Cornel West, philosopher, theologian and activist “Everyone is a moon, and has a dark side which he never shows to anybody.”~Mark Twain (1835-1910), from his 1897 travelogue Following the Equator “Amiable agnostics will talk cheerfully about ‘man's search for God.' To me, as I then was, they might as well have talked about the mouse's search for the cat.”~C.S. Lewis (1898-1963), writer, professor, and literary scholar “The Bible is the perpetual motion of the spirit, an ocean of meaning, its waves beating against man's abrupt and steep shortcomings, its echo reaching into the blind alleys of his wrestling with despair.”~Abraham Joshua Heschel (1907-1972), Polish-born rabbi-theologian in God in Search of Man “The pharisee within usurps my true self whenever I prefer appearances to reality, whenever I am afraid of God, whenever I surrender the control of my soul to rules rather than risk living in union with Jesus, when I choose to look good and not be good, when I prefer appearances to reality.”~Brennan Manning (1934-2013), author and former priest “There is a vast difference between self-conviction and Holy Spirit-conviction. When God convicts, He gets specific with us about our sin… He uses specific Scriptures. And His kindness toward us leads to a hopeful conclusion of repentance and dependence. Self-conviction, and the conviction of the enemy, on the other hand, is wide-ranging, condemning, and defeatist. It leads back to self: ‘Try harder and do better' … It will lead us right back where we started – awash in guilt and condemnation.”~Christine Hoover, author and speaker “If Jesus is a wonderful Savior in every way except where we are the most hypocritical, then He is no Savior for us.”~Ray Ortlund, author and minister “God's righteousness compels him... to have to judge the guilty. But then he offers forgiveness and says ‘I will not judge you according to your works.' So... he sends his Son... so that now when he calls you his own... he has not compromised his righteousness.”~Jackie Hill Perry, poet, writer, and hip-hop artistSERMON PASSAGERomans 3:1-9 (ESV)Romans 2 17 But if you call yourself a Jew and rely on the law and boast in God 18 and know his will and approve what is excellent, because you are instructed from the law; 19 and if you are sure that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, 20 an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of children, having in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21 you then who teach others, do you not teach yourself? While you preach against stealing, do you steal? 22 You who say that one must not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? 23 You who boast in the law dishonor God by breaking the law. 24 For, as it is written, “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” 25 For circumcision indeed is of value if you obey the law, but if you break the law, your circumcision becomes uncircumcision. 26 So, if a man who is uncircumcised keeps the precepts of the law, will not his uncircumcision be regarded as circumcision? 27 Then he who is physically uncircumcised but keeps the law will condemn you who have the written code and circumcision but break the law. 28 For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. 29 But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God.Romans 3 1 Then what advantage has the Jew? Or what is the value of circumcision? 2 Much in every way. To begin with, the Jews were entrusted with the oracles of God. 3 What if some were unfaithful? Does their faithlessness nullify the faithfulness of God? 4 By no means! Let God be true though every one were a liar, as it is written, “That you may be justified in your words,        and prevail when you are judged.” 5 But if our unrighteousness serves to show the righteousness of God, what shall we say? That God is unrighteous to inflict wrath on us? (I speak in a human way.) 6 By no means! For then how could God judge the world? 7 But if through my lie God's truth abounds to his glory, why am I still being condemned as a sinner? 8 And why not do evil that good may come?—as some people slanderously charge us with saying. Their condemnation is just. 9 What then? Are we Jews any better off? No, not at all. For we have already charged that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin….

Welcome to Sylvan Way and thanks for joining us as we worship Jesus! I Believe in the Resurrection Description: Most people treat the resurrection like an Easter tradition. Paul calls it “of first importance.” In this message from 1 Corinthians 15:3–8, we walk through the claim that changed everything about everything: Jesus didn't just die—He was buried, and on the third day He rose again. And Paul doesn't present it as a private spiritual experience. He names witnesses, points to Scripture, and lays down a challenge: if the resurrection is real, it changes what you believe, what you value, and how you live. We also address common objections and “alternate theories” people use to avoid the resurrection, and we'll look at why the early church was willing to stake everything on this event. If you've ever wondered whether the resurrection is historically credible—or if you've believed it but don't live like it matters—don't miss this message. The final takeaway will force one question: If Jesus rose, what does that mean for you today? If this message speaks to you, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe. Where we seek to Love God, Love Others, and Live on Mission. We are a church that strives to live fully for Jesus, while sharing His story with others. To learn more: sylvanway.com Send us your prayer requests & comments: sylvanway.com/connect To partner with us through giving: sylvanway.com/give

If Jesus is Lord in our lives, He is Lord over ALL of it! Listen to this message on how we can reset our hearts by giving the Lord our first and our best!

If Jesus preached some of His sermons today, we'd cancel Him. Think about that!He told a man to let the dead bury their own dead.He called religious leaders whitewashed tombs.He said you must hate your father and mother.And in one particular moment… He calls a desperate woman a dog.That doesn't sound very “He Gets Us,” does it?The problem is: We've created a version of Jesus who's endlessly affirming, never confrontational, and never uncomfortable. And when the real Jesus shows up in the Bible, we flinch.The issue isn't that Jesus is unloving. The issue is we don't understand love. And Matthew 15 is about to expose all of that.So let's get into it! 

Get the notes!Understanding the Foundations: An Introduction to 1 JohnAs we begin a new journey through the First Epistle of John, we must first lay a firm foundation. Before diving into a verse-by-verse exegesis, it is vital to understand the “why” and “who” behind this powerful letter. In our latest teaching at Let's Talk Scripture, we explore the apostolic authority of John and the urgent historical context that prompted this writing.The Apostle of Love and TruthThe evidence for the Apostle John's authorship is overwhelming. From the linguistic parallels with the Fourth Gospel to the intimate, eyewitness perspective of the “Word made flesh,” this epistle carries the weight of one who personally leaned on the breast of Jesus. John doesn't just teach theology; he testifies to what his own hands have handled.Combatting the Spirit of AntichristThe primary battleground of 1 John is the defense of the Incarnation. In the first century, a heresy known as Docetism (an early form of Gnosticism) began to infiltrate the church. These teachers claimed that because matter is evil, Jesus could not have possessed a physical body.John's response is definitive: If Jesus did not have a physical body, He could not die. If He did not die, our sins are not paid for. The physical death of Christ was “absolutely necessary and critical” to satisfy the wrath of God against sin.A Circular Journey of FaithUnlike a linear argument, 1 John is circular. It repeatedly returns to three foundational pillars:Truth: Maintaining a correct Christology (Jesus is God in the flesh).Love: The essential requirement of loving the brethren as a mark of true faith.Fellowship: Walking in the light by acknowledging our sin and relying on the Spirit.New Release: 1 John Comprehensive Lesson PackageTo help you, your small group, or your congregation dive deeper into these truths, we have released a complete 1 John Study Package. This resource is formatted for professional publication and is ready for immediate use in any teaching environment.What's Inside the Package?Publication-Style Outline: A comprehensive, numbered breakdown of the entire introductory lesson.Complete Bible Study Lesson: A detailed teaching manuscript following the NASB 1995 Updated Edition. Teacher &  Student Guides: Tailored resources with discussion prompts, key Greek terms, and reflection questions. Interactive Quiz &  Answer Sheet: A 10-question assessment with full theological explanations for every answer.Video Integration Notes: This entire package is meticulously timestamped to our “Introduction to 1 John” video, making it an ideal companion for digital learning or classroom settings.[Download the Complete 1 John Lesson Package Here]Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/lets-talk-scripture/donations

There are some things which, if they are true, change everything. If Jesus rose from the dead, it would transform what we think of God and how we see ourselves. We could make sense of some of the deepest mysteries of our existence and enjoy real hope in our everyday lives. But can a rational person actually believe that Jesus rose from the dead? Join us as Mike Hood explains why the Resurrection is believable.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thirsty? This week, Jesus offers a drink that quenches forever. Peter Walsh, Elizabeth Garnsey, and John Kennedy look at the story of the Samaritan woman at the well and discuss how Jesus satisfies our thirst, how he reaches across boundaries, and how this event mirrors some of the Bible's oldest stories.Father Peter's Vlog 10.8.19 (Holy Land Pilgrimage Day 6): Holy Land Pilgrimage PlaylistThemes and ApplicationWhy do you think John places this story right after Nicodemus? What contrasts between Nicodemus and Photini stand out to you?What boundaries does Jesus cross in this encounter? National? Ethnic? Religious? Gender? Moral? Social? Which of these feels most radical in our current context?The woman becomes the first evangelist in John's Gospel. What does her testimony teach us about how faith spreads?Personal ReflectionHave you ever felt like an outsider to a community, system, or church? What does Jesus' posture toward the Samaritan woman say into that experience?Jesus names the truth of the woman's life without condemnation. What would it be like to let Christ see your full story without defensiveness?Leonard Cohen wrote, “There's a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in.” Where are the cracks in your life through which grace might be entering?Broader Spiritual ConsiderationsIn the Orthodox tradition, the Samaritan woman is known as Saint Photini (The Enlightened One). How does viewing her as a saint change the way you read the story?If Jesus is the true “well” from whom living water flows, what does that imply about Christian unity across divisions?What would it look like for communities to reflect the ever-flowing nature of living water rather than building dams of exclusion?Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org

Can you really talk to God like He's your Father? And what happens when He doesn't answer your prayers?   In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham dive deep into what it really means that Jesus tore the veil. From the Lord's Prayer and unanswered prayer to spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues, this conversation unpacks how access to the Father changes everything.   But the team didn't stop there...they also tackles a pressing cultural question: If Jesus reigns as Lord, how should Christians think about rights, government, and public policy? Learn the difference between “freedom from” and “freedom to,” why language shapes belief, and how biblical wisdom helps us think beyond simplistic solutions.   This episode is about alignment: aligning your prayer life and your worldview under the authority of Christ.   In this episode, you'll learn: Why calling God “Father” was radically disruptive in the first century, and what it means for your prayer life today EIGHT specific biblical reasons God may not be answering your prayers Practical, step-by-step frameworks to deepen your daily prayer life What the Bible actually teaches about praying in tongues (without hype or denial) The difference between private, prophetic, and proof tongues in Scripture Why “Do not forbid speaking in tongues” and “Let all things be done in order” both matter How to connect your theology to public policy and cultural issues The difference between a biblical definition of rights and a progressive definition of rights

Read OnlineJesus spoke to the crowds and to his disciples, saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees have taken their seat on the chair of Moses. Therefore, do and observe all things whatsoever they tell you, but do not follow their example. For they preach but they do not practice.” Matthew 23:1–3Why do you do what you do? Even when our actions appear good, reverent, or charitable, they can be motivated by pride. The scribes and Pharisees struggled with this very sin. They often performed their acts of piety and charity not to glorify God but to win the praise of others. They were quick to judge others while failing to practice what they preached. This hypocrisy led many to view them with disdain. Therefore, Jesus' public rebukes of the religious leaders must have consoled those who had been mistreated under their leadership. His words provided both corrections and hope for those seeking authentic faith.Jesus condemns the religious leaders more than a dozen times throughout the Gospels, making them a significant aspect of His mission. Jesus came to bring both healing and truth, and confronting hypocrisy was necessary to restore justice within the community. But why did Jesus take such a firm stance against them? Wouldn't it have been easier to seek peace and unity through kindness, avoiding conflict and division?It's important to understand that true kindness is a fruit of charity. But for kindness to be truly charitable, it must always seek the good of the other. Charity is not merely about making people feel good; it is rooted in divine truth. If Jesus had simply said, “We should be nice to the scribes and Pharisees, no matter what,” this would not have been true charity. Jesus' rebukes sought to awaken the religious leaders from their spiritual blindness and protect the people from their harmful example. True charity often requires correction.In our own lives, we must also examine our motivations. Are our acts of piety and charity truly for the glory of God, or are they done to be seen and praised by others? When we embrace the Gospel, we must accept that we might sometimes hear uncomfortable truths. Genuine love does not shy away from correction but seeks the ultimate good of the other, even when it challenges us to change. Therefore, we must see ourselves as the scribes and Pharisees, needing rebuke and correction.Additionally, there are times when God uses us to correct others out of love. Parents do this for their children, guiding them with patience and tenderness so they may grow in virtue. In the same way, teachers are called to instruct their students, imparting knowledge and forming their character with care and wisdom. Spiritual directors, priests, and confessors gently guide souls on the path to holiness, helping them to discern areas of growth and sin, always in the light of God's mercy and truth.Reflect today on Jesus' charitable words to the scribes and Pharisees. First, hear Jesus' words spoken to you. Humble yourself so you are open to such loving rebukes. Allow yourself to become more aware of your pride and self-righteousness so that you can change. Also, be open to how God might want to use you to confront others charitably. While Jesus alone is the Judge, He sometimes uses us as instruments of His judgment for those open to hearing His voice through us. Humbly consider this role, allowing God to use you as He wills. Always speak with gentleness and love, imparting the hard truth another needs to hear, never with cruelty or harshness.My just Lord, Your just judgments flow from the unfathomable charity within Your Sacred Heart. You desire all men to be saved and to turn to You. Please humble me so that I never reject Your just judgments but receive them with joy so that I may repent and grow closer to You. I also place myself at Your service as an instrument of Your justice for others in accordance with Your will. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Jesus wakes lazarus by Robert Wilhelm Ekman  Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Jesus came to rule as King. And to purify His people. If Jesus is King… then I'm not. Every heart has a throne. Who's sitting on yours? Let's turn to Jesus and surrender our lives to Him.

This week, Bekah Sankey brings us back to the Sermon on the Mount, teaching from Matthew 5:17–37; 7:15–23, with reflections from Romans 7–8, Galatians 5, Hebrews 10, and Jeremiah 31. Centered on what she calls Kingdom Words, this message explores how the way we speak reveals who we belong to—and whether we truly know the One we name.Beginning with Jesus' bold declaration, “You have heard it said… but I say to you,” Bekah unpacks how Christ establishes Himself as the fulfillment of the Law—not abolishing it, but completing it. From that foundation, she traces what this means for our speech. If Jesus is the living Word and the Law fulfilled, then kingdom people must speak in ways that reflect His authority, integrity, and Spirit.Walking through Jesus' teaching on oaths (Matthew 5:33–37), she calls us back to simple, honest speech: let your “yes” be yes. In a culture saturated with exaggeration, spin, and self-protection, clarity and truthfulness become radical acts of discipleship. Moving into Matthew 7, she challenges us to “check the fruit”—not measuring spiritual vitality by visible gifts or dramatic moments, but by the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5).Finally, in one of Jesus' sobering warnings—“I never knew you” (Matthew 7:23)—we are reminded that powerful words and spiritual works mean nothing apart from intimacy with Him. Prophecy, miracles, and ministry cannot replace knowing Jesus. Kingdom speech flows from relationship, not performance.This message is both invitation and warning: tell the truth, check the fruit, and know Him. As we yield to the Holy Spirit—the One who writes the law on our hearts—we become people whose words create life, whose speech multiplies the kingdom, and whose lives bear lasting fruit.

Where did sickness come from? Is it God's will? Does Jesus still heal? Do our words matter? Should we expect God to move? In this series, Made Whole, we are going back to Scripture to answer foundational questions about healing. If sickness did not originate in God, then we can trust His heart. If Jesus reveals the Father, then we can look at His works. If life in Christ is abundant, then it is more than survival.

If Jesus saved you from the penalty of sin, why does sin still seem to have power in your life? That's the question at the heart of this session — and the answer changed everything for Pastor Mark Medley.Drawing from his own story of coming to faith out of a life of drugs, broken relationships, and bondage, Pastor Mark shares how some chains broke immediately when he met Jesus, while others held on. It wasn't until a mentor challenged him to memorize all of Romans chapter 6 that the truth began to sink in: the work of Jesus on the cross didn't just deal with the penalty of sin — it broke the power of sin over his life too.This session walks through Romans chapters 5 through 8, tracing Paul's argument from justification and grace all the way to freedom and life in the Spirit. You'll encounter Paul's repeated phrase "how much more" — the idea that wherever sin reached, the grace of God reached further. You'll hear the raw honesty of Romans 7, where Paul describes the inner war of wanting to do right but doing wrong. And you'll arrive at the triumphant declaration of Romans 8: there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.Pastor Mark ties it all together with a vivid illustration — just as the law of aerodynamic lift overcomes the law of gravity and gets a 747 off the ground, the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus overcomes the law of sin and death. You don't have to stay pulled down. There's a greater law at work.This is part of the Foundations class at Trinity Community Church, taught by Pastor Kelly Kinder and Pastor Mark Medley.We are Trinity Community Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.Subscribe to our Podcast & YouTube channel to find past sermons, classes, interviews, and more!Find us on Facebook & Instagram

After the Parable of the Sower and Jesus' explanation to His disciples, a natural question came up. If Jesus is sowing good seed and it is a matter of the soil of our hearts taking in God's Word and the proclamation of the Kingdom, then how do we make sense of all the “bad seed” sown around us? The world doesn't look like a lot of good. In fact, it can often be more of a challenge to see the good through the difficult, unjust, and wickedness of the world.Jesus answered with a series of three parables: The Parables of the Weeds, Mustard Seed, and Leaven. Each one shows us something unique about the Kingdom of God. Each one tells us something we have to know about how God works and how God is at work, both at the time of Christ, and in our lives and world here and now.------------------------------------------- Connect with us on Social Media ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠Threads⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠Vimeo⁠------------------------------------------- Download our App⁠Apple App Store⁠ | ⁠Google Play Store⁠

I Am, 1 of 7 from March 1, 2026 “Let your selfish desires drive you to Jesus, and let Jesus rewire your desires.” John 6 by Michael Lockstampfor (@miklocks)SUMMARYThis sermon explores Jesus's declaration “I am the bread of life” from John 6, challenging listeners to examine what truly satisfies them and to recognize how often they approach Jesus with selfish, temporary desires. Pastor Michael emphasizes that genuine belief in Jesus is more than intellectual agreement; it is a trust that changes how we live and recognizes Jesus as the only true source of lasting fulfillment and eternal life.REFLECTION & DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Chris Morgan teaching on Luke 9:57-62. Below are discussion questions from his teaching: What does “foxes have holes…” reveal about the kind of security Jesus does not promise?What is your current “let me first” with God?Where are you delaying obedience because the timing isn't convenient?Why does looking back affect our ability to move forward spiritually?If Jesus interrupted your plans this week, what would frustrate you most?Is your relationship with Christ decisive or constantly negotiating? Why would you say that?

Friday, 27 February 2026   Then the disciples understood that He spoke to them of John the Baptist. Matthew 17:13   “Then the disciples, they comprehended that He spoke to them concerning John the Immerser” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus told the three disciples that Elijah had come already. And yet, they didn't know him, and they did to him whatever they wished. He included the thought that they would likewise cause the Son of Man to suffer at their hands. Having said that, it next says, “Then the disciples, they comprehended.”   The word suniémi has already been seen eight times. It is a word that signifies “to put together.” They joined the facts that have been presented to them and have made a conclusion concerning what Jesus is saying, comprehending what they had not yet understood. What they comprehended is “that He spoke to them concerning John the Immerser.”   Jesus never said that the person on the mountain with Him and Moses was John the Baptist. Matthew clearly identifies him twice as Elijah. However, on the way down, their question was about the coming of Elijah according to the prophecy of Malachi 3:1 and 4:5, 6.   They could not understand how Elijah fit into the scenario if he was supposed to come before the coming of the whopping and fearful day of Yehovah. The voice from heaven told them to listen to Jesus. If Jesus was now the one to listen to, how could Elijah be the messenger to tell Israel to restore the hearts of the people?   John came in the spirit and power of Elijah, not as Elijah himself (John 1:21). Unless one believes that the book of Revelation has been fulfilled, as preterists do, which is a giant error in eschatology, the day of the Lord referenced by Malachi is still future.   Life application: To assume that all prophecy except the return of Christ is fulfilled is to dismiss a literal interpretation of a majority of the Bible, inclusive of both testaments. And this isn't just in plain, easy-to-understand prophecies and promises, but in typology as well.   It is true that typology can be easily manipulated or misinterpreted, but a proper evaluation of what is being presented leaves no doubt about what is coming. God is not through with Israel, and there is a time when they, as a nation, must (and will) choose to accept that Jesus is their long-rejected Messiah.   How anyone can read and misinterpret Romans 9-11 and think that God is done with Israel would be laughable if it were not so sad. One example from that dissertation says –   “For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. 26 And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: ‘The Deliverer will come out of Zion, And He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob; 27 For this is My covenant with them, When I take away their sins.'” Romans 11:25-27   A simple question to ask concerning Paul's words is, “Has the fullness of the Gentiles come in?” Obviously not! Another question that follows naturally is, “Does Paul here call the Gentiles either Israel or Jacob?” Obviously not! He calls them “Gentiles,” thus providing a clear and definite distinction between the two.   As Paul refers to turning away ungodliness from Jacob, something Elijah is prophesied to do in Malachi 4, and that is to occur only after the fullness of the Gentiles has come in, then it is as obvious as the nose on a preterist's face that there is yet a plan and purpose for Jacob, meaning Israel but stated as Jacob to make sure even the dullest sort can understand he is referring to the wayward nation of Israel.   Are they enemies of the gospel? Yes! (Romans 9:28). Are they still beloved for the sake of the fathers? Yes! (Romans 9:28). Are their gifts and calling irrevocable? Yes! (Romans 9:29). Israel, a people who are currently not God's people, will be His people again someday. This is what the Bible teaches.   God, despite their disobedience, will again be rich in mercy to them, demonstrating His goodness even to those who have completely walked away from Him, turning their hearts to every “god,” idol, and perversion known. Why? Because He is faithful even when we are unfaithful. Thank God for His merciful kindness to the people of the world.   Lord God, how can we not praise You for who You are and for all You have done for us, even us. Our hearts are wicked, our thoughts are perverse, our actions belie our profession again and again. And yet, because of Your covenanting with us through the blood of Jesus Christ, You remain rich in mercy to us. Thank You, O God, for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

In this message of our "Truth Bombs" series, we tackle the human tendency to rebel against authority—especially when that authority requires something from us. Whether it's grumbling at a referee from the sidelines or dismissing a doctor's tough advice, we often respect a title only until it challenges our own control.Drawing from Luke 20, we look at the moment religious leaders challenged Jesus' authority. Jesus responded by dropping a massive "truth bomb" regarding the identity of the Messiah. By quoting King David in Psalm 110, Jesus revealed that the Messiah isn't just a political hero or a distant descendant; He is Lord, existing above and before even the greatest kings.The core of this message challenges the modern trend of shrinking Jesus down to a "life coach," a motivational speaker, or a "wish-granter". As the source notes, "If Jesus is only helpful, then you'll stay in control. But if Jesus is Lord, that means that you are not". When we truly acknowledge Him as Lord, it moves us beyond "looking for tips" and into a life of total surrender and repentance.Key Takeaways from the Sermon:• The Problem with "Helpful" Jesus: Why viewing Jesus as merely a resource for your own goals keeps you in the driver's seat and misses the point of the Gospel.• Authority vs. Accountability: Understanding why we often "smile and nod" at Jesus' titles until He calls us to change our lives.• The Trap of Self-Righteousness: A look at the "teachers of the law" who valued religious showmanship over honest repentance.• The Religion of Recognition vs. The Lord Who Saves: Choosing between a faith based on our own achievements and a Savior who descended to wash feet and die for our sins.Ultimately, Jesus doesn't want to just "renew your mind"; He wants to blow up the lies in your heart so that He can take His rightful place as King of your life!

Share a commentStart with a brilliant agnostic surgeon, add a wife just as skeptical, and place them in a world where science felt sufficient and Scripture seemed suspect. Then introduce a disciplined promise: they'll examine the claims of Christianity with the same rigor they bring to medicine. What follows is a step-by-step rethinking of everything they assumed about origins, meaning, and truth.We walk through the evidence that first unsettled, then persuaded them. Patterns in biology and the cosmos reframed chance as an insufficient author; Psalm 19 gave voice to the sense that creation speaks continually. Archaeology undercut classroom myths by unearthing Hittites, Edomites, and cities like Petra, aligning the biblical record with the spade. Prophecy drew a line from ancient texts to a crucified Messiah, while John's portrait of the Logos made revelation feel personal, not abstract. And at the center stood the critical hinge: the resurrection. If Jesus truly rose, his words move from inspiring to binding. The fear-to-courage arc of the disciples, sealed by suffering and death, became difficult to dismiss as fiction.But evidence alone didn't make the difference. The turning point was discovering that Christianity is not a merit system; it is grace received, not goodness achieved. Verses from Titus, Timothy, Acts, and Romans reshaped assumptions about salvation and opened a path from belief to belonging. That path led Viggo and Joan to a costly coherence: turning down prestigious offers and sailing to Bangladesh to build a hospital, plant churches, and serve patients from royal families to the poorest neighbors. Along the way, they met people asking the same questions that launched their search: Where did we come from? Can God be known? Is forgiveness real?Join us for a story that blends rigorous inquiry with lived conviction, weaving themes of intelligent design, biblical reliability, the resurrection, and grace. If you're weighing big claims or wondering whether truth is worth the risk, this conversation offers clarity and courage. If it moves you, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review to help others find the show. What's the one question you want answered next?_____Stephen's latest book, Legacies of Light, Volume 2, is our gift for your special donation to our ministry. Follow this link for information or to donate:https://www.wisdomonline.org/mp/legaciesSupport the show

Share a commentStart with a brilliant agnostic surgeon, add a wife just as skeptical, and place them in a world where science felt sufficient and Scripture seemed suspect. Then introduce a disciplined promise: they'll examine the claims of Christianity with the same rigor they bring to medicine. What follows is a step-by-step rethinking of everything they assumed about origins, meaning, and truth.We walk through the evidence that first unsettled, then persuaded them. Patterns in biology and the cosmos reframed chance as an insufficient author; Psalm 19 gave voice to the sense that creation speaks continually. Archaeology undercut classroom myths by unearthing Hittites, Edomites, and cities like Petra, aligning the biblical record with the spade. Prophecy drew a line from ancient texts to a crucified Messiah, while John's portrait of the Logos made revelation feel personal, not abstract. And at the center stood the critical hinge: the resurrection. If Jesus truly rose, his words move from inspiring to binding. The fear-to-courage arc of the disciples, sealed by suffering and death, became difficult to dismiss as fiction.But evidence alone didn't make the difference. The turning point was discovering that Christianity is not a merit system; it is grace received, not goodness achieved. Verses from Titus, Timothy, Acts, and Romans reshaped assumptions about salvation and opened a path from belief to belonging. That path led Viggo and Joan to a costly coherence: turning down prestigious offers and sailing to Bangladesh to build a hospital, plant churches, and serve patients from royal families to the poorest neighbors. Along the way, they met people asking the same questions that launched their search: Where did we come from? Can God be known? Is forgiveness real?Join us for a story that blends rigorous inquiry with lived conviction, weaving themes of intelligent design, biblical reliability, the resurrection, and grace. If you're weighing big claims or wondering whether truth is worth the risk, this conversation offers clarity and courage. If it moves you, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review to help others find the show. What's the one question you want answered next?_____Stephen's latest book, Legacies of Light, Volume 2, is our gift for your special donation to our ministry. Follow this link for information or to donate:https://www.wisdomonline.org/mp/legaciesSupport the show

Faith For Our Covenant Rights (1) (audio) David Eells 2/25/26 I want to talk to you today about some possible misconceptions some of God's people may have regarding receiving God's blessings and why some people don't receive them when they are prayed for.   Satan Reads Minds & Inserts Thoughts I was asked this question: Can you substantiate in Scripture where it is written that Satan can put thoughts into our minds? My answer was: In order for Satan to put thoughts into our minds, he would also have to be able to read our minds. I will try to explain this in a moment, but first, you might want to entertain another question: Can anyone substantiate with Scripture that Satan cannot put thoughts into our minds or read our minds? Since we can't do this, then we shouldn't believe it because it is not Scriptural. It says in (1Ch.28:9) ... The Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts... In the spirit realm, thoughts are audible to the mind of God and demons. God and demons can, in turn, impart the gift to read minds. I have read the thoughts of men by the power of the Holy Spirit. A man once asked me if I knew what he was thinking. At that moment the Holy Spirit gave it to me, and for several minutes the man was awed at the power of God. Also, when I first went to a full gospel Church I witnessed Christians attempting to exorcise a demon-possessed man who thought he was a woman. He also demonstrated the ability to read minds when the unbelieving Christians asked for a demonstration. He did say that it was easier to read the mind of one person there and pointed to the only person there who was not filled with the Spirit, even though he did not personally know anyone there. Familiar spirits or spirits of divination in magicians, wizards, mediums, etc., have demonstrated the power to read minds in front of audiences of people. We wrestle with principalities and powers in the mind. The Bible says in Eph.6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world-rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual [hosts] of wickedness in the heavenly [places].... 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. We see here that with the renewed mind of the Word, our thoughts are guarded as with a helmet because we won't accept foreign thoughts. We learn to discern the illegal thoughts of the enemy. Then we are able to take back our thoughts (by repenting and agreeing with the Word) and we cast the enemy's thoughts down. 2Co.10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh 4 (for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the casting down of strongholds), (The principalities and powers hold the strongholds in the thoughts of the mind.) 5 casting down imaginations (thoughts and images), and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. We win the battle by rejecting the enemy's thoughts and replacing them with God's thoughts. We are at peace with God when we are full of His thoughts, and our minds are guarded from the demonic attacks that, if heeded, cause outward actions of sin. We are told in Php.4:6-7 In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus. Satan is able to insert thoughts within our thoughts. Act.5:3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thy heart to lie to the Holy Spirit, and to keep back [part] of the price of the land? and also 1Ch.21:1 And Satan stood up against Israel, and moved David to number Israel. Now, here we can use a little Holy Spirit reasoning. How could Satan insert his thoughts in the midst of our thoughts unless he knows the context of our thoughts? If you went into your computer to edit a paragraph, how could you do this if you couldn't read the original? How could you insert the right text unless you could read the context of the original thoughts? If you just inserted words anywhere without knowing the context, you would make a nonsensical statement, and anyone would know that someone inserted something that was out of place. So it is with us. If Satan or demons inserted something that didn't fit the context of our thoughts, then everyone would know that they are at work. They do their best work undercover, and they know it; they're crafty and work to deceive us. How would Satan be able to tempt us if he were so dysfunctional? We would know it was him immediately. How then would it be a temptation? Now, here is the really important thing. Our battle does not depend on whether the enemy can read our minds or not. It depends on what he can do about what we know. When we read the Book of Job, we can clearly see that God put restrictions on Satan's ambitions for Job. Satan has to obey God's rules of engagement even when he knows what we think. Satan admits he did not have the power to get at Job because of God's hedge around him, and the same is true of us. Job.1:9 Then Satan answered the Lord, and said, Doth Job fear God for naught? 10 Hast not thou made a hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath, on every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land. It is not important for our thoughts to be hidden from the enemy when he can do nothing about them. And he can do nothing about our thoughts unless by them we give him permission, for we have authority over him. Luk.10:19 Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall in any wise hurt you. 20 Nevertheless in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. It doesn't matter what the demons know that we know, for as sons of God we are their lords just as it was with Jesus. Joh.20:21 Jesus therefore said to them again, Peace [be] unto you: as the Father hath sent me, even so send I you. Mat.18:18 Verily I say unto you, what things soever ye shall bind (forbid) on earth shall be bound (forbidden) in heaven; and what things soever ye shall loose (permit) on earth shall be loosed (permitted) in heaven. Our faith permits the sovereignty of God to be manifest through the Body of Christ and forbids Satan, no matter what he knows of our thoughts. Jesus' condition for receiving His benefits is plain: “As thou hast believed, [so] be it done unto thee” and “According to your faith be it done unto you” and “Thy faith hath made thee whole”. As we believe, God's benefits will be given. Unbelieving thoughts and actions forbid God's benefits to us because He has made a condition, and He cannot lie. Unbelief permits Satan to continue administering the curse. Mar.6:5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. 6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. So we see that even Jesus was forbidden to do mighty works for those who would not believe. Whether we know it or not, we are constantly forbidding or permitting Satan, demons, and God's angels by our thoughts, words, and actions. Since all authority in heaven and earth was given to Jesus and He, in turn delegated it to His disciples, where does Satan get his authority? He gets it from our unbelief, words, and disobedience. If the devil can convince you to listen and accept his thoughts of doubt, worry, fear, anger, etc., you won't be able to stand against him with faith. When we add to or take away from God's Word in thought and deed, this permits the curse by Satan and forbids God's blessings for us or through us. This is by God's design to motivate us to come into agreement with Him. It clearly says in Rev.22:18 I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto them, God shall add unto him the plagues which are written in this book (19) and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the tree of life, and out of the holy city, which are written in this book. So, in coming into agreement with God, we forbid Satan to administer the curse to us. In order to win this battle, we have to cast down the thoughts of Satan that he sends our way, which would otherwise give him permission to destroy us. So again, 2Co.10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh 4 (for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the casting down of strongholds), 5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. Here's another misconception. Many think that the reason God gives the gift of tongues is so that Satan cannot understand what we say to God, and his purposes will be thwarted. This is false. Satan and his fallen angels are much smarter than Christians give them credit for. They certainly know the “tongues of men and of angels,” or they couldn't communicate with one another and put their thoughts in our heads. 1Co.13:1 If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am become sounding brass, or a clanging cymbal. When prophecy is uttered in one's own known language, the mind, doctrine, and desires are permitted to be involved in what is said, and the Word is polluted as it says in 1Cor.13:9 “for we know in part, and we prophesy in part”. In other words, the Prophecy can be part God and part man. However, the reason we speak with tongues is so that WE will not know what we are saying and will have no carnal reason to change it or add to it. In this way, it will be a pure Word given of the Spirit. The Bible says in Rom.8:26 And in like manner the Spirit also helpeth our infirmity (We have problems sometimes and we don't see the things we need to see. We don't know ourselves as well as we may think we do.): for we know not how to pray as we ought; (It is so true! God gives us the gift of speaking in tongues because we don't know what we should pray, but the Spirit does know what to pray. The apostle Paul really appreciated this gift, and he said, 1Co.14:18 I thank God, I speak with tongues more than you all.); Continuing in Rom.8:26 but the Spirit himself maketh intercession for [us] with groanings which cannot be uttered (that is by man); 27 and he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to [the will of] God. So once again, we gain wisdom concerning the work of the Holy Spirit in us in how to defeat the enemy.   Faith in Balance Another misconception some people may have is how they use faith for things that they don't understand are wrong; things that are not good for us or others. Mar.16:17 And these signs shall accompany them that believe... 18 they shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall in no wise hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Should we always eat what we want, drink what we want, and breathe what we want because we are not under the curse, according to Galatians 3:13? Possibly the key words here are “what we want,” not “what we need”. God said He would supply our every need. Some think that because we are not under the curse, we shouldn't tell people that certain things are poisonous to their bodies. Where is the balance here? No one should tempt God by taking poison on purpose when there is a choice. That is like the snake handlers who often die tempting God to prove who they are. Permit me to paraphrase the devil when he tempted Jesus: “Throw yourself off this temple, Jesus, because God said the angels would catch you”. His answer was, “You shall not tempt the Lord your God”. Like the angels' promise, God also said you are not under the curse. Does that mean you should put poison in your mouth on purpose when you have a choice not to? That would be tempting God in the exact same way. Notice the devil tempted Jesus to use His promise of protection and His deliverance from the curse to jump off the temple. He tempts you to use your promise of protection and eat known poisons for no purpose, or eat after your own lusts. There is no difference, unless that is all you have to eat, like the man who said to Elisha, “There is death in the pot,” because, in their foraging for food, poisonous gourds had been thrown in the pot. Since that is what they had to eat, he blessed it, and they ate it. When I lived in Pensacola, I drank the water there, I've driven my motorcycle through the chemtrails, and I ate whatever food was put before me because I needed to and was blessed. I knew an otherwise strong Christian who believed with all his heart that he could eat anything he wanted because he was not under the curse. I agreed with the principle, but not the way he was using it to justify his lustful eating habits. He was using the doctrine to eat in an unhealthy manner, and he was overweight and under-exercised. To make a long story short, he died with his arteries clogged and dying because of a lack of circulation. And he confessed constantly that it was all good and he wasn't under the curse. The Lord said we ask and don't receive because we want to consume it upon our lusts. The demons jumped on the seven sons of Sceva, who thought they had protection, but their own lives were not right with God, and so they were under the curse. The promise that ‘if you drink any deadly thing it will not harm you' is for those who have to drink the water they have and eat the food available to them, like when Moses blessed the bitter waters in the barren wilderness. When we are given poison secretly to kill us, as ‘the powers that be' are doing now, we are protected. When we know about it and have a choice between poison and pure, we should choose that which is pure. Of course, if you have something to prove, like the devil was tempting Jesus by saying, “If you are the Son of God,” prove who you are. Jesus had no such lust, and He proved it. There was another way down from that temple roof. Some religious people today would say to someone like him, “You don't have any faith”. But Who is the teacher here? The man who said there was death in the pot was not wrong. Now they had a choice to make: believe God if you need to eat or opt out if you don't believe. Many Christians don't truly believe that God will protect them from poison. Should we just let them die because they do not believe in God's promise? Is it all right to say to them, there is death in the pot? They would die and never have a chance to grow up and learn that they are not under the curse. The Lord said in Hosea 4:6 that His people would die for lack of understanding. Let us have mercy on them and tell them with grace and wisdom that fluoride, chemtrails, chemotherapy, and many drugs they take, etc., are poison. “Cursed is the man that trusteth in man.” But should they be forced to take them or deceived into taking them, they should believe they are not under the curse. Now we know serpents are also demons, but Paul did not take up that serpent on purpose. It bit him, but when it happened, he shook it off by faith and was none the worse in Acts 28:3. I knew a couple who believed they were not under the curse, but they were under a law of their own making, instead of grace through faith; they were under pride, Jezebel and worshiped a false Jesus. God didn't care what their doctrine was; He refused to answer and protect them. In short, walk in holiness and under the protection of God, but don't try to prove who you are in pride, don't put yourself under a law, and don't be competitive with others, for God will humble you. We are not looking to make or find the line in this balance for others; we just share Biblical principles to help them find balance. Let everyone find their own line in their conscience and according to the measure of their faith. We don't want to be caught making laws for others here. Those who truly trust in the Lord are covenant people.   Covenant People Have Rights through Faith Some time ago, I received an email from a brother who was following a man who taught his followers that we should heal everyone like Jesus did. I responded to him with the following: First of all, I am glad for all the people who get healed. By the grace of God, what this brother teaches is right. I have taught for over 55 years with multitudes saved, healed, delivered from demons, and provided for by many kinds of miracles, even physical creations, resurrections, etc.; many were by phone or online, etc. I have searched the scriptures diligently for over 50 years, and there are many that this brother does not consider and put into his puzzle. In his video, he says, “There are no verses that say a person's unbelief will stop them from getting healed.” He has not believed his Bible, throwing out all verses that do not agree with his theory, just like the people he criticizes. According to Jesus, both the minister should have faith AND the one being ministered to. Here are just a few scriptures that come to me quickly: Rom.1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Mar.9:22 And oft-times it hath cast him both into the fire and into the waters, to destroy him: but if thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us. 23 And Jesus said unto him, If thou canst! All things are possible to him that believeth. 24 Straightway the father of the child cried out, and said, I believe; help thou mine unbelief. 25 And when Jesus saw that a multitude came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I command thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him. 26 And having cried out, and torn him much, he came out: and the boy became as one dead; insomuch that the more part said, He is dead. But Jesus showed them not so. Mar.6:4 And Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house. 5 And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them. 6 And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages teaching. Luk.8:47 And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him declared in the presence of all the people for what cause she touched him, and how she was healed immediately. 48 And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace. 49 While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Teacher. 50 But Jesus hearing it, answered him, Fear not: only believe, and she shall be made whole. 51 And when he came to the house, he suffered not any man to enter in with him (none who disbelieve), save Peter, and John, and James, and the father of the maiden and her mother. Mat.8:13 And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And the servant was healed in that hour. Mat.9:29 Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to YOUR faith be it done unto you. Real faith puts us in covenant rights. Mat.21:22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. We cannot add to or take from God's Word under penalty of a curse (Revelation 22:18,19). So I told this brother who had been captured by a deceiving spirit, “You would do better to study where ALL the scripture is respected.” When Jesus went from town to town, He healed the people who came to Him. They came because they heard and believed He healed, or they would not have come. For this reason, Jesus rarely went to anyone to heal them. When He went to the pool of Siloam, He went to just one man and healed him because Father gave Him a word of knowledge. He healed no one else there. If Jesus wanted to heal everyone, why didn't He do it for all the rest lying around the pool, who were waiting for the waters to be troubled by the angel? Jesus can heal without faith in someone, but He doesn't have to because of the command for them to believe. This is the exception and not the rule. He requires faith, especially for those who know better. Babies get milk when they cry. Adults are expected to get it for themselves. So if you want to guarantee they have a right to healing, deliverance, and provision, preach the Gospel and see if they believe. This preacher did not do this and he mostly prayed to take pain away. He would ask specifically, “Does anyone have pain?” This may remove a symptom, which by nature, points people to the real disease that he is not dealing with.     Also, Jesus taught that if you don't forgive, you will not be forgiven. Addressing this man, I said, Your friend proved that in the video. When people forgave, they got their healing. He came to the wrong conclusion because he was not accepting all of the scriptures. I have seen the same thing for many years when people repent of willful disobedience, which always brings judgment; they get healed. Heb 10:26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more a sacrifice for sins, 27  but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fierceness of fire which shall devour the adversaries. Jesus taught that when a person is forgiven, they can be delivered from the tormentors, which are demons that bring spirits of infirmity.   He demonstrated this in Mat.9:6 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath authority on earth to forgive sins (then saith he to the sick of the palsy), Arise, and take up thy bed, and go up unto thy house. And Luk.5:24 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath authority on earth to forgive sins (he said unto him that was palsied), I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go unto thy house. The clear proof that they were forgiven was that they got healed, as Jesus said. Jesus showed that you can give healing or deliverance to even a child of God, but he will not keep it if he doesn't become a disciple and fill his heart with the Word. Mat.12:43-45 But the unclean spirit, when he is gone out of the man, passeth through waterless places, seeking rest, and findeth it not. 44 Then he saith, I will return into my house whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. 45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more evil than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man becometh worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this evil generation. Jesus said those who received these benefits from Him also lost them, and it's still true today. Your friend said that every time he prays, he will get healing, which is not true. As he was speaking, the Lord had me test him. He looked square into the camera, saying a person did not need faith; all they needed was his faith. He told the people to put their hands on their infirmity, and he would pray, so I did too. I put my hand on a small thing on myself that had not yet manifested. I was not believing when he prayed because he said it wasn't necessary. When he prayed, nothing happened to me, just like most of the people who watched that video. By the grace of God only, I have been praying for the sick, casting out demons and performing miracles of all kinds for about 55 years, and far less than 1% send me a testimony of their benefit, and most that are sent to us are not on our site. Here you can see that I have taught others to heal and see miracles of all kinds, and they, in turn, are teaching others. But we have to speak as Jesus did and the main condition is faith. I have also taught the real Gospel and the disciples have seen many saved. All the people your friend sends out to witness and heal have the same experience as you. Some are healed, and some are not, and they don't know why. They feel condemned because they haven't got enough faith. You say you believe this man is a Man-child. The Man-child will speak all of the Word and have all kinds of miracles like Jesus, not just the removal of pain, which he specializes in. Also, the Man-child will go to the covenant people and send disciples to the covenant people, just like Jesus the Man-child. History must repeat, or the Bible is wrong. When you speak the gospel FIRST to a person, and they believe it, they are a covenant believer, and they are entitled to healing, deliverance, and miracles. Jesus said, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 15:24). They were the only ones who had the Covenant. The reason Jesus was healing all, which your group is not doing, is because He went to the people who had covenant rights of healing. Exo.15:26 and he said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of Jehovah thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his eyes, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases upon thee, which I have put upon the Egyptians: for I am Jehovah that healeth thee. Today, we offer healing, and if anyone believes the simple Gospel, they will receive. The Syrophoenician woman wanted healing for her daughter, but Jesus said, “It's not right to cast the children's bread to the dogs” (or unbelievers). She said, “But even the dogs get the crumbs that fall from the master's table”. Jesus said, “For this saying (of faith) go thy way; thy daughter is healed”. Jesus was bringing a New Covenant for all those who believe. They have a right to healing and deliverance. Also, notice the daughter had rights through the parents' faith. The centurion's servant had rights through his faith, as with Jairus' daughter. If they believe that they can heal everyone, why do they not go to the hospitals where the really sick people are and empty them? Taking pain away is one of the easiest things. Keep on preaching the Gospel, brother, but include all of the scriptures for more success. Read the free book on our site called The Real Good News. You will find many more scriptures there AND the real Gospel. Now, another area people may have a misunderstanding about is…   Repenting for Others and the Sins of the Parents I received this question from a sister and put my comments in red. She writes: I'm forwarding this to you as it is in line with your ministry. Personally, I have mixed emotions about it. On one hand, God said in the Old Testament that He no longer holds the sins of the Father against the children. My Reply: This is because for those who believe, Jesus broke the genetic curse of Adamic sin, which is passed on through the blood of parents. We had a woman in our assembly who adopted three babies from birth but didn't know the biological parents. As each child entered puberty, they started manifesting fornication, lying and stealing, and the mother was confused because she had raised them all to be Christians. She wanted to find out who the biological parents were and was able to because an HRS worker turned her back while she looked at their files. She went to see the mother and found out that she was just like the children with the same sins. Even though the parents did not raise these children, their sins were passed on through their blood. As we prayed for these children, God saved them and the genetic curse was broken. Now they do not suffer for the sins of their parents. Many Christians still suffer for the sins of their parents and need to believe the Gospel to be delivered. She continues: Eze.18:1 The word of Jehovah came unto me again, saying, 2 What mean ye, that ye use this proverb concerning the land of Israel, saying, The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge? 3 As I live, saith the Lord Jehovah, ye shall not have [occasion] any more to use this proverb in Israel. My Reply: Those in true spiritual Israel are delivered from the sins of the parents by the blood of the Lamb. Jesus became a curse for us (Gal.3:13,14). She continues: Eze.18:20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die: the son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son; the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. My Reply: “For each man shall bear his own burden” (Gal.6:5). She continues: That being so, then this admonition to repent of the sins of the Fathers before us, or we will be punished, seems contrary, although every generation has those who are prejudiced and mistreat others, for which they as individuals should repent. Is every generation of America going to have to repent for what their forefathers did? When does it end? My Reply: We can repent for the sins of our parents, which are genetically in us, but we cannot repent of their sins for them, as some say. Everyone has to repent for themselves. :o) A sister we know of thought this would work for the City of New Orleans, but God quickly told her that it would not. She continues: “We stopped over in New Orleans on July 2nd. We repented and interceded for that city. Afterwards as we turned to leave, the Lord spoke clearly to two of us. What He said to me was startling. He said, “I will destroy this city in a day!” Obviously, repenting for someone else doesn't work; two months later, the city was gone. (Hurricane Katrina)” My Reply: Some believe verses like this prove that to be a false doctrine. Neh.9:2 And the seed of Israel separated themselves from all foreigners, and stood and confessed their sins, and the iniquities of their fathers. This is for Christians who are separated from their nations. Our sins, which ARE the iniquities of our fathers in us, can be confessed and forsaken. She continues: Secondly, as one scripture verse points out, Psalm 130:3 If thou, Jehovah, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand? The idea that Nashville, Las Vegas, or New Orleans are more sinful than other places is possible, but if God wants to, He could pick any big city and would be able to find enough reasons to punish the people therein. However, from the Old Testament, I get the impression that, in spite of men's sinfulness, God is looking for reasons to spare people, such as for the sake of any righteous persons therein. When messages calling for repentance come through, I take them seriously because I don't want to take a chance of destruction coming. My Reply: “The wicked is a ransom for the righteous” Pro.21:18. When God judges the wicked, the righteous get the fear of God and repent like when God judged Egypt, and Israel came out from among them. God is gathering sinners into cities to give a demonstration for the righteous, who, like Lot, will come out from among them. The judging of the wicked is a ransom, which is the price God is willing to pay for the righteous to be free from bondage. Ten judgments fell on Egypt, and Israel tempted God 10 times in the wilderness.

Read OnlineWhile still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah.” Luke 11:29Today's Gospel takes place during the midpoint of Jesus' public ministry. By this time, He had healed the sick, cast out demons, raised the dead, preached many powerful sermons, and changed many hearts. Despite that, many in the crowds did not believe in Him and demanded more signs.Additionally, the Pharisees were becoming increasingly hostile toward our Lord. In Luke's Gospel, they confront and criticize Jesus several times before this passage. In today's Gospel, Jesus addresses His rebuke to these Pharisees and the unbelieving crowds.If Jesus' generation was “an evil generation,” what would He say about our own? In many ways, we are becoming a global culture. While there are countless faithful followers of Christ worldwide, evil seems to be more pervasive today, perhaps more noticeable due to the ease of worldwide communication.Though Jesus delivered His sermons to specific people in His time, His words transcend time and are meant for every generation. When He says, “This generation is an evil generation…,” we must understand that He is also speaking to us today.When Jesus says His generation “seeks a sign,” He points out a common human temptation. Many approach the Gospel skeptically, demanding irrefutable proof that they should change their lives, believe in the Good News, and abandon sin. In today's world, some even glorify sin, treating virtue as outdated or foolish. This distorted outlook leads many to disregard the most important sign of all—Jesus' Death and Resurrection.Yet Jesus is clear: “…no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah.” Jonah's three days in the belly of the fish prefigured Jesus' three days in the tomb. In other words, Jesus' Death and Resurrection is the one and only sign given to us. This is striking because so many fail to pay attention to this ultimate sign of salvation. In the end, we can only change ourselves and hope that our conversion becomes a witness to others.Do you believe in this sign? Do you believe that Jesus' Life, Death, and Resurrection is the sole path to salvation? Most likely, you do. But how deep is that belief?Though Jesus performed many miracles during His earthly ministry, He did so as a response to the faith already present in those around Him. Today, the same is true. Physical miracles mean little compared to the saving Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Christ. They are merely reflections of the greatest miracle—eternal salvation. If you truly want to witness a miracle, turn to this supreme gift of grace and mercy. Believe with all your heart, and you will witness the transformation of your soul, which is the greatest miracle of all. Reflect today on Jesus' rebuke of the evil surrounding us, which demands proof but refuses to see the one sign that truly matters. The only proof Jesus offers is the grace that transforms us. When we discover and embrace this grace, we will know, believe, and be changed. Open your heart to the miracle of conversion that God desires to bestow upon you, and become a witness of Christ's greatest miracle for others to see. My miraculous Lord, though many in every age seek superficial signs, You offer the one true miracle that brings salvation—Your Life, Death, and Resurrection. Please help me to believe with unwavering faith, and protect me from the evil of this generation. Transform my heart so that I may be the fruit of the miracle You wish to give to the world. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Jonah by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.   Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

In Week 7 of our Familiar Stranger series, Pastor Matt Piland addresses a vital question: How do we actually live out the life God has called us to? Many of us treat our faith like a car loan—believing Jesus made the "down payment" on the cross, but that it's now our job to sustain the monthly payments through sheer willpower and "trying harder." Drawing from Galatians 5, Pastor Matt breaks down the difference between legalism and true freedom in Christ. Following Jesus isn't about a factory-style production of "being good"; it's about a garden-style growth that comes through the Holy Spirit. If you've been feeling spiritually exhausted by your own human effort, this message is a call to stop trying to maintain in the flesh what was only ever meant to be completed by the Holy Spirit.

Join us for this week's sermon!Whether you're seeking hope, direction, or a deeper connection with God, this message is for you. Each week, we open God's Word together to find truth, encouragement, and strength for the journey.

Welcome or Surrender? The Difference Between Applause and Allegiance This message is for you if: You've ever felt spiritually moved — but wondered if that's enough. You attend church but want to know what real surrender actually looks like. You're wrestling with whether Jesus is just part of your life… or truly King of it. You've confused religious activity with genuine discipleship. You want your faith to endure beyond emotion — into real, steady trust. On Palm Sunday, the crowds shouted "Hosanna." They waved branches. They laid down cloaks. But by the time Jesus entered the temple, everything was quiet. In this Gospel Daily message, Pastor Josh Weidmann walks through Mark 11:1–11 and explores a sobering question: Is it possible to welcome Jesus emotionally — and still fail to receive Him as King? This sermon examines the Triumphal Entry, the meaning of "Hosanna," the fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9, and the tension between superficial faith and lifelong surrender. Discover the difference between enthusiasm and discipleship, religious routine and true worship, and why Palm Sunday still confronts us today. If you've ever wondered what real surrender looks like — not just in worship, but in your daily life — this message will challenge and clarify what it means to follow Jesus as King.   Show Notes Text: Mark 11:1–11 — The Triumphal Entry Jesus entered Jerusalem humbly, intentionally, and fully in control. The crowd welcomed Him with praise — but misunderstood His mission. It's possible to feel moved by Jesus and still miss what He truly wants. When Jesus entered the temple, the celebration gave way to silence. Sometimes the greatest danger isn't open rejection — but quiet neglect. Receiving Jesus as King is more than a moment of emotion. It's daily trust. Ongoing surrender. Steady worship. A surrendered life looks faithful in both joy and suffering. Gentle but personal question: If Jesus walked through your life today, would He find room prepared for Him?   Reflection Questions  Where in my life have I welcomed Jesus emotionally — but resisted surrendering control? If Jesus "surveyed" my priorities this week, what would reveal that He is truly King? What might reveal indifference? Do I follow Jesus for what I hope He will give me — or for who He truly is? What area of my schedule, relationships, finances, or ambitions have I not fully laid down before Him? What would it look like for my Monday to reflect the same devotion I express on Sunday?

If Jesus is exalted in heaven, how can He truly understand what you have gone through, and what does that mean for you right now? With Dr. Sam Storms.

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:12-17 (ESV)12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.Sermon Outline1. When do we forgive?[13] … if one has a complaint against another…2. What does forgiveness look like?[13] … if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other…3. How can we forgive?[13] … if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.[2:13] And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, [14] by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, we live in a world of broken relationships where we have been wronged against, and we have wronged others. Our offenses are not always accidental, but often intentional. Instead of mending what's been broken, we withhold forgiveness. We want others to pay for what they've done. Jesus, your grace is amazing because you gave us complete forgiveness before we uttered a word of confession. You bore the cost of our sin, and you did not make us pay. As you have forgiven us, may we forgive one another. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?Paul assumes that in the church there will be situations when people will hurt one another, and these won't be accidents. Have you witnessed or experienced any “complaints” in the church?How would you define and describe forgiveness?What do you find difficult and challenging about forgiveness?Paul uses the language of “forgiving each other” as though forgiveness will be ongoing. Have you had a situation where you've been challenged to forgive someone in an ongoing way?Paul shares that the basis for our ability to forgive others is because Jesus has forgiven us. How does this help you to forgive? How might you still struggle to forgive?If Jesus' forgiveness towards us was full and complete, how does that give you assurance and comfort? What if his forgiveness was partial? What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

“Why does life still feel fragile even when I'm doing everything to protect my peace?” If self-care, comfort, and avoiding stress were enough, wouldn't we feel stronger by now?This message wrestles with a quiet tension many of us feel: the more we try to eliminate difficulty, the less resilient we become. Avoidance may calm anxiety in the moment, but it often increases fear and fragility long term. So how do we actually grow through stress, hardship, and uncertainty?In Epistle of James 1:2–4, we're told to “consider it pure joy” when trials come—not because pain is good, but because tested faith produces endurance. James isn't preaching positive thinking. He's pointing to faith rooted in Jesus Christ—not as a life coach, but as Savior and Lord.If Jesus is only a teacher, trials are lessons to survive.If Jesus is King, troubles are tools in His hands.Real resilience doesn't come from inner strength or “doing hard things.” It grows through dependence on Christ—trusting Him not just to get us out of difficulty, but to carry us through it.If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or crushed by comfort, this conversation invites you to ask a different question:“How could this test grow my faith and endurance?”Watch, reflect, and explore what it might mean to build your life on something stronger than comfort.

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 3:12-17 (ESV)12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.Sermon Outline1. When do we forgive?[13] … if one has a complaint against another…2. What does forgiveness look like?[13] … if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other…3. How can we forgive?[13] … if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.[2:13] And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, [14] by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.Prayer of ConfessionGracious God, we live in a world of broken relationships where we have been wronged against, and we have wronged others. Our offenses are not always accidental, but often intentional. Instead of mending what's been broken, we withhold forgiveness. We want others to pay for what they've done. Jesus, your grace is amazing because you gave us complete forgiveness before we uttered a word of confession. You bore the cost of our sin, and you did not make us pay. As you have forgiven us, may we forgive one another. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat connected with you from the sermon or the passage?Paul assumes that in the church there will be situations when people will hurt one another, and these won't be accidents. Have you witnessed or experienced any “complaints” in the church?How would you define and describe forgiveness?What do you find difficult and challenging about forgiveness?Paul uses the language of “forgiving each other” as though forgiveness will be ongoing. Have you had a situation where you've been challenged to forgive someone in an ongoing way?Paul shares that the basis for our ability to forgive others is because Jesus has forgiven us. How does this help you to forgive? How might you still struggle to forgive?If Jesus' forgiveness towards us was full and complete, how does that give you assurance and comfort? What if his forgiveness was partial? What do you sense God calling you to do from this passage?

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO MARRY?HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED? WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON? WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?HOW DO YOU GET SOMEONE TO FALL IN LOVE WITH YOU?IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED?HOW WOULD YOU MAKE A MARRIAGE WORK?Leveraging Conflict#1 Complaint in relationships: We are incompatible. Conflict is healthy.2 Corinthians 5:16a-So from now on, we regard no one from a worldly point of view. If Jesus can cause sinful man and holy God to be reunited, he can step into your marriage and heal it now!2 Corinthians 5:16b-Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer.2 Corinthians 5:172 Corinthians 5:182 Corinthians 5:19a-God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. What would it look like to put Jesus at the center of your life/marriage/relationships?What will you do with the conflict in your life?

Elon Musk recently said he agrees with the teachings of Jesus. That simple statement raises the biggest question any of us will ever face: Who is Jesus, really? Today, Todd Huff explores C.S. Lewis' famous “liar, lunatic, or Lord” argument from Mere Christianity and explains why Jesus didn't leave room for being labeled just a “great moral teacher.” This is more than theology — it's the foundation of freedom, morality, and the ideological battle shaping America today. If Jesus is who He claimed to be, everything changes. If He isn't, that changes everything too. Let's walk through the evidence and the choice before all of us.

Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 02/19/2026) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CA RM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include: Eastern Orthodox Quotes on Salvation Available on The CARM Website/ Can We Learn Things, Even From "Controversial" Bible Teachers?/ Why Can't Humans Have Been Made "Perfect?"/ A Caller is Searching for His Path/ Should Women Preach or Pastor is Away?/ If Jesus is God, How Can He Be At God's Right Hand?/ February 19, 2026

Elon Musk recently said he agrees with the teachings of Jesus. That simple statement raises the biggest question any of us will ever face: Who is Jesus, really? Today, Todd Huff explores C.S. Lewis' famous “liar, lunatic, or Lord” argument from Mere Christianity and explains why Jesus didn't leave room for being labeled just a “great moral teacher.” This is more than theology — it's the foundation of freedom, morality, and the ideological battle shaping America today. If Jesus is who He claimed to be, everything changes. If He isn't, that changes everything too. Let's walk through the evidence and the choice before all of us.

On today's Bible Answer Man broadcast (02/18/26), Hank notes that today is Ash Wednesday, which is the beginning of the forty days of preparation for celebrating the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. During this time, Christians remember our sinfulness, we repent, we ask for God's forgiveness, and we recognize that God's forgiveness comes at an infinite price—the death of Jesus Christ on the cross on our behalf. Hank also discusses Clean Monday, which is part of the Eastern Church's observance of the Great Lent that will be observed this coming Monday.Hank also answers the following questions:Which historian was the first to mention the Gospels? Jason - Harrisburg, PA (6:24)If Jesus died on a Friday and rose on Sunday, isn't that just two days? Jason - Harrisburg, PA (7:12)Could you clarify your statement on the doctrine of 'once saved, always saved'? Jonathan - Calgary, AB (8:57)I've had someone question me about Christ being in the grave for three days; would you mind explaining that? Kurt - Spokane, WA (16:08)What would have happened if Adam and Eve had not eaten the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil? Keith - Kalamazoo, MI (18:57)I believe the Church misunderstands the timing of the day of preparation and Jesus' crucifixion. Tracy - Hayden, ID (21:59)

In this episode, Dudley and David Holland conclude their conversation by inviting us to reexamine bible prophecy through the lens of the gospel truth. Walking through Acts 2 and Psalm 110, they explain how the outpouring of the Holy Spirit marked not a postponement, but the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. If Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father, then His reign has already begun.That reframes questions like who is the antichrist and what we should expect in the days ahead. Instead of fear or speculation, we are called to confidence in a finished work and a present kingdom. Psalm 110 declares a coronation, and the Holy Spirit empowers a people who live in light of that reality now. This is not hype about the end, but hope rooted in what Christ has already accomplished.Get Dudley's Weekly Word delivered right to your inbox every Friday! Click here to get access ➡️ https://dudleysweeklyword.com/opt-inFor more information and resources, visit https://kerygmaventures.com/podcast/ Follow and subscribe:Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/41N9SAP Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3LEIxeo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerygmaventures Watch our "Conversations At The Ranch" series: https://bit.ly/conversations-at-the-ranch Watch our “Dudley's Monthly Message” series: https://bit.ly/dudleys-monthly-message 

Because Christ suffered to save us, believers are called to think and live differently. In this passage, Peter moves from Christ's saving suffering to the believer's sanctifying suffering. If Jesus suffered in obedience to the Father, we must “arm ourselves” with that same mindset, choosing God's will over sin, even when it costs us. Peter reminds us that our former life of sinful passions is finished. We don't owe sin another hour. Instead, we now live under a new Master—the will of God. And when we refuse to join the world's patterns, we should expect misunderstanding, rejection, and even hostility. Our holiness will stand out. But we are not left without hope. God is the righteous Judge, and no injustice escapes Him. Though believers may suffer or even die physically, the gospel guarantees eternal life. Just as Christ was put to death in the flesh and made alive in the Spirit, so we share in His pattern of suffering now and glory to come. First Peter 4:1–6 calls Christians to decisive allegiance to Christ, living no longer for human passions, but for the will and glory of God. ________________________________________ Links to Sermon Notes & Answers: ➤Sermon Notes (Blank): https://www.sheridanhills.org/_files/ugd/30fec2_f0a49705cadb439c93dd049de8b4adf3.pdf ➤Sermon Notes (Answers): https://www.sheridanhills.org/_files/ugd/30fec2_fada543e541c48b08ba55b89728545e4.pdf ________________________________________ In this video: Review of previous sermons in series Main Points Application ________________________________________ Subscribe to this channel to catch weekly expositional sermons from the Bible. ________________________________________ Explore more sermons and information: https://www.sheridanhills.org/watch-new ________________________________________ Follow us: ➤Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheridanhills/ ➤Twitter: https://twitter.com/sheridanhills01 ➤Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheridanhills/

At the halfway point of the year, it's easy to feel like we're just trying to make it to the finish line. But this message is an invitation to do more than survive—to recenter. In Colossians 1:15–23, we're reminded of who Jesus really is: the One who created all things, the One who holds all things together, and the One who leads His church. If Jesus is truly the center, everything else—our stress, our opinions, our fears, our responsibilities—finds a better place. Pastor Tim speaks honestly about the emotional weight of our cultural moment, and how easy it is for Christians to get pulled into anxiety, outrage, and division. But the church is called to something different: unity in Christ, a deeper story, and a kingdom mission that doesn't rise and fall with the news cycle. This message also prepares us for Lent and the practices that form us: Sabbath, fasting, and prayer. Not as a way to earn God's love—but as a way to become more aware of it, and more grounded in it. If you feel off-center right now, this message is for you. May Jesus become central again—steady, present, and supreme.

Pastor Ty Neal 1 John 5:4-5 We cannot claim to know the end and goal of history. Therefore, the question of meaning in history has become meaningless. Rudolf Bultmann Revelation 5:8Revelation 5:9Hebrews 5:9Revelation 5:9-10John 10:11John 10:17-18Romans 6:23Matthew 20:28Revelation 5:9Revelation 5:10Ephesians 2:14-16 If Jesus is precious to you, you will not be able to keep your good news to yourself; you will be whispering it into your child's ear; you will be telling it to your husband; you will be earnestly

This week, we explore the culture Jesus calls His family to build, one marked by servant leadership, loving well, forgiveness, and interdependence, using the picture of a road trip with a clear destination and a very intentional way of traveling together. If Jesus defines the mission, He also defines the how, and this conversation invites families to shape a culture that reflects the Kingdom of God right at home.

In a world constantly defined by what we value—the greater job, the greater house, the greater thrill—what is truly worth chasing? Join us for our new series, "GREATER THAN," as we dive into the passionate, urgent argument of the Book of Hebrews: Jesus is greater than everything. Discover why the first-century church was tempted to drift away from the substance of Jesus for the shadows of religion, and learn the three massive claims about why Jesus is superior to all the old ways. He is the very radiance of God's glory, the exact representation of His being, and the one who effortlessly sustains the entire universe by His powerful word. If Jesus is the Final Word, the only one who can hold your life together, the most dangerous thing you can do is drift away from Him. Find out how to anchor your life in the "Greater Thing" and stop settling for the fragments of a lesser hope.

Many people carry a distorted vision of God—an abusive, vengeful figure waiting for us to fail so He can strike us down. When they stumble, they run from His presence, convinced judgment is coming. But nothing could be further from the truth. On the opposite extreme are those who believe grace excuses everything. Grace does cover all sin, but Scripture is clear: we are not to rely on grace as a license to continue in sin. “Shall we continue in sin so that grace may abound? Certainly not.” God hates sin because of what it does to us. None of us are perfect; all have fallen short. But God’s heart is always restoration, not destruction. When David sinned, he acknowledged his failure and chose to fall into the hands of God rather than the hands of men. He knew something we often forget: it is better to trust God’s mercy than man’s revenge. Given the choice between God and people, choose God every time. In our text, a woman caught in the very act of adultery is dragged before Jesus. This wasn’t about justice; it was a trap. If Jesus said, “Stone her,” they could accuse Him of being harsh and vengeful. If He let her go, they could accuse Him of being soft on sin. But Jesus did something entirely different. She expected to die. She braced for the first stone. But when she opened her eyes, the only one standing there was Jesus. If she had fallen into the hands of man, she would have been dead. But in the hands of mercy, she lived. Jesus extended grace, but He did not excuse the sin. He said, “Go, and sin no more.” Mercy and truth—together. So the question becomes: Who do you want judging you? We often think we want people to handle it, but people are quick to pick up stones. God, on the other hand, is quick to forgive, quick to restore, and slow to anger. Better to fall into the hands of God than the hands of man.

Many people carry a distorted vision of God—an abusive, vengeful figure waiting for us to fail so He can strike us down. When they stumble, they run from His presence, convinced judgment is coming. But nothing could be further from the truth. On the opposite extreme are those who believe grace excuses everything. Grace does cover all sin, but Scripture is clear: we are not to rely on grace as a license to continue in sin. “Shall we continue in sin so that grace may abound? Certainly not.” God hates sin because of what it does to us. None of us are perfect; all have fallen short. But God’s heart is always restoration, not destruction. When David sinned, he acknowledged his failure and chose to fall into the hands of God rather than the hands of men. He knew something we often forget: it is better to trust God’s mercy than man’s revenge. Given the choice between God and people, choose God every time. In our text, a woman caught in the very act of adultery is dragged before Jesus. This wasn’t about justice; it was a trap. If Jesus said, “Stone her,” they could accuse Him of being harsh and vengeful. If He let her go, they could accuse Him of being soft on sin. But Jesus did something entirely different. She expected to die. She braced for the first stone. But when she opened her eyes, the only one standing there was Jesus. If she had fallen into the hands of man, she would have been dead. But in the hands of mercy, she lived. Jesus extended grace, but He did not excuse the sin. He said, “Go, and sin no more.” Mercy and truth—together. So the question becomes: Who do you want judging you? We often think we want people to handle it, but people are quick to pick up stones. God, on the other hand, is quick to forgive, quick to restore, and slow to anger. Better to fall into the hands of God than the hands of man.

What if legacy isn't about building your name, but about lighting someone else's? We open Hebrews 12:1–2 and get honest about the dash between our birth and death—how it shrinks, how it weighs on us, and how Jesus reframes it into a race worth running. From a fourth-generation thread of well-worn Bibles to the living history of a church founded in 1845, we explore why remembering the “great cloud of witnesses” can turn discouragement into courage and isolation into purpose.We break the message into four moves: remember the witnesses who prove endurance is possible; remove the weight and the sin that secretly saps strength; run your race with steady habits rather than hype; and refocus on Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who endured the cross for the joy set before him. Along the way, we swap hustle for the easy yoke—learning how Christ shoulders the true pull while teaching us his pace. The goal is not a flawless sprint; it's a faithful finish.Then we press legacy into real life. Your flame is meant to ignite others—first at home with your spouse, kids, and grandkids, then outward with spiritual sons and daughters in your church, school, and city. Heritage becomes a trust when we invest in students, serve in kids' ministry, show up at local games, and carry the light to places our predecessors prayed for. If Jesus ran his race for others, so do we.Ready to trade heavy for holy and turn memory into mission? Listen, share it with someone who lit your path, and tell us whose faith you want to honor this week. If this encouraged you, subscribe, leave a review, and pass it on to a friend who needs a lighter yoke today.

If Jesus is the king, when is the coronation? Peter had declared to Jesus, "You are the Christ (the Anointed, the coming King)." But then the King says some very strange things: "Tell no one," and, "I'm going to be rejected and killed. But the kingdom is coming." The death of the prince before He can ascend to the throne is not defeat... it's the plan. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS02132026_0.mp3Scripture References: Mark 9

Matt Slick Live (Live Broadcast of 02/11/2026) is a production of the Christian Apologetics Research Ministry (CA RM). Matt answers questions on topics such as: The Bible, Apologetics, Theology, World Religions, Atheism, and other issues! You can also email questions to Matt using: info@carm.org, Put "Radio Show Question" in the Subject line! Answers will be discussed in a future show. Topics Include: Hosea 11:12—Translation Difficulties from The Hebrew/ Matthew 4:6,7—Does this Temptation Indicate Jesus is God?/ Why Does The New Testament Call Jesus God at Times, and The Lord Jesus Christ at Other Times?/ Is There a Limited Number of Demons?/ Back to Jesus' Temptation Experience/ John 15 and Romans 11—Who Can be Cut-Off?/ If Jesus is God, How Could He "Learn?"/ Who are The "Hebrew Israelites?"/ Matt Briefly Discusses The Important Worldwide Roles of CARM's Missionaries/ February 11, 2026