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Are modern faith healers the real deal—or are they deceiving people? In Acts 9, Peter healed a paralyzed man and even raised a woman from the dead, proving the power came from Christ alone. Join Jim Scudder on InGrace for part one of Are Faith Healers Fake Healers?
Welcome to Christ Community's Online Service! When it comes to relationships, conflict is unavoidable—but how we respond makes all the difference. In Acts 21–22, the Apostle Paul faces intense relational tension and shows us both what damages relationships and what can restore them. In this message, Pastor Alan unpacks four ways we often hurt the people around us—avoidance, assumptions, accusations, and judgments—and four ways to move toward peace and reconciliation. Listen to discover how following Jesus can transform the way we navigate conflict and become true peacemakers. For prayer and to stay connected, please visit: https://www.cccgreeley.org For Giving: https://www.cccgreeley.org/give/ Discussion guide: https://cccgreeley.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/2025-Nov-8-9-Group-Discussion-Questions.pdf Find Family at our Engage Lunch!
What happens when Jesus starts messing with your economy? When faith stops being a hobby and starts costing you something? In Acts 19, the people of Ephesus lose their minds because the Gospel hits them right where it hurts—their wallets. Paul preaches that "gods made with hands are not gods," and suddenly the idol industry crashes. That's what the Gospel does—it disrupts business as usual. It threatens the systems that profit from our sin. And when Jesus becomes Lord of your life, all your lesser lords panic. Mic drops: "When faith gets real, it shakes things up." "When Jesus becomes Lord of your life, all your lesser lords panic." "The Gospel wins the day—not by shouting louder, but by outlasting the noise." "The Gospel doesn't just rearrange your playlists—it rewrites your song." This message is called "No Little Disturbance." Because when the real God shows up, all the fake ones start a riot. You are always welcome: www.NewChurch.Love
In this message from Everyday Mission, we watch the church scatter under persecution and discover that this isn't a setback at all — it's the strategy of God. In Acts 8:1–8, the Holy Spirit moves Jesus' mission forward through everyday people and sends them to overlooked people, fulfilling the promise Jesus made in Acts 1:8. Philip, an ordinary servant, becomes a bold witness in Samaria, showing that the mission doesn't advance through the elite but through Spirit-filled believers willing to speak about the work of Christ in their own lives. God uses ordinary people to bring extraordinary joy to unexpected places.For more information about Integrity Church, visit our website, http://liveintegritychurch.org Connect with us on social media throughout the week to stay up to date on events and things happening at Integrity! Instagram: @integrity_church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liveintegrity/
When God's plan looks different than we expected, it can feel confusing or even disruptive. In Acts 9, Saul's encounter with Jesus completely changed his direction, showing that God's purpose often unfolds in unexpected ways. This message invites us to trust that when God redirects our path, He's still working out His greater plan to transform our lives for His mission.
Ezra 5 tells of the work of building the house of God recommencing with the prophets of Yahweh - Haggai and Zechariah - supporting and encouraging the work. Still the attempts to frustrate the building came from Tatnai, the Governor on the other side of the river (the Jordan). The faithful Jews continued building while Tatnai's letter was sent to Darius (the Persian king). The Jews faithfully answered as to why their realm had been overturned and to their obedience to the God of heaven and the decree that came from king Cyrus to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. The Jews suggested that search be made in the Chronicles of the kings of Persia to prove their claim. Chapter 6 tells us that the search was made in the house of the scrolls in Ecbatana proving the accuracy of the Jews' claim. A letter came from king Darius asking Tatnai and his people to materially support the building of the temple. Verses 15-18 report the completion and dedication of the house of God. From verses 19-22 we read of the great joy as the new kingdom of Judah kept the Passover. Let us be daily builders of God's House and let those labours bring joy to our hearts.Chapter 7 of Hosea contains some very graphic Hebrew poetry. From the rulers of the nation to the common people they were so intent on sexual depravity that they are described by the figure of a baker with an overheated oven. They had no shame for what they were doing. Another of the figures sees them as a dove that cannot make up her mind on whom to dote - Egypt, or Assyria. God wanted it otherwise and even when judgment was brought on them they didn't repent. A soft and penitent heart is always to be found among the LORD's children.In Acts 25 we are told that, when Festus was determined to send Paul to Jerusalem, the Apostle had no alternative but to make his appeal to Caesar. After a short period of time Festus conducted another hearing of Paul's matters. Festus once again sought the favour of the Jews and at this time Paul announced that he would exercise his right as a Roman Citizen to be judged by Caesar. Herod Agrippa and his wife Bernice were visiting Caesarea and at this time Festus requested they hear Paul's case for Festus was struggling with the wording of the charge against Paul. Festus explained to Agrippa that to him there was no capital crime, but simply matters concerning Jewish law. With great pomp and ceremony Agrippa, Bernice and all the other dignitaries entered the judgment hall. Festus was seeking Agrippa's opinion on the nature of the charge to appear on the letter to be sent to Caesar. Chapter 26 records Paul's defence and appeal to Agrippa to embrace the Christian cause. Paul tells his audience of his fervour for the Jewish way and his concerted opposition to Christianity. But when he was confronted by the risen Lord Jesus Christ on the road to Damascus everything changed. He told the audience of his great commission and then knowing king Agrippa to be a man who read the prophets he appealed to the king to adopt the Christian belief. Festus, being embarrassed by the situation, attempted to finish the hearing immediately by declaring Paul to be mad due to his great learning. Paul was not to be silenced so quickly and continued to ask Agrippa whether he believed the prophets. He stated plainly I know you believe them king Agrippa. At this point king Agrippa and all the dignitaries rose and left with the king stating Paul's innocence. Let us remember that we are bondslaves to our Lord Jesus Christ and as his prisoners let our testimony burn before all to whom we witness.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow
Pastor Troy Dobbs contrasts theory and reality, demonstrating that while many Christians view persecution as theoretical, the early church and many believers today experience it as a daily reality. In Acts 4:23–31, after being threatened, the disciples responded by praying not for safety, but for boldness to keep proclaiming Jesus. Their prayer began with recognizing God's sovereignty, was rooted in Scripture, and reflected deep confidence in His control over all things. God answered by shaking the place where they prayed and filling them with the Holy Spirit, strengthening them to speak with courage. The message reminds us that God's sovereignty means nothing is random or beyond His power, even in the midst of suffering. Because of this, we can rest in His control and, like the early church, pray for strength and courage rather than comfort and ease.
It's Friday, November 7th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Indian Christians rally for rights The Christian Community in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh has planned to organize a public rally in protest of the ongoing discrimination against Christians there, reports International Christian Concern. The Civil Rights Rally is being organized by Rashtriya Christian Morcha, a nation-wide civil rights advocacy group, in association with the Christian community in Kanker. They seek to uphold justice, equality, and the values of the Indian Constitution. No date has been set. Numerous Hindu villages in the Kanker district previously erected billboards banning the entry of pastors and “converted Christians,” creating fear among members of the Christian minority. The warnings declared these villages off-limits to Christian missionaries and evangelists, citing provisions of a 1996 law. In Acts 4:18, Jesus' disciples faced similar restrictions. “Then [the Sanhedrin] called them in again and commanded [the disciples of Christ] not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus.” Senator Cruz: Democratic victories were “an electoral blowout” Appearing on Sean Hannity's Fox TV talk show on Wednesday, the day after the Democrats won the races for governor in Virginia and New Jersey as well as for New York City mayor, Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas sounded the alarm. CRUZ: “Last night was a disaster. It was an electoral blowout. The results in New Jersey were disastrous. The results in Virginia were terrible. The results in in New York: Comrade [Zohran] Mamdani is the face of the Democrat Party. “We have an actual communist jihadist. And it's important to note, Mamdani is not a socialist. He is a full-on communist. He is called for seizing the means of production in our economy. He is a Marxist. That is profoundly dangerous. “And look, I know there's some Republicans who are saying, ‘Well, gosh, this will be good politically, because they'll be the face of the Democrat Party.' I think it's terrible for America. New York is the largest city in America. It is the financial capital of the world; it's the media capital of the world. This is a lunatic who wants to abolish the police. This is a jihadist who cheers on the radicals and the terrorists who chant ‘Globalize the Intifada.'” Senator Cruz explained that the Democrats are fired up and if Republicans don't wake up, they could lose the Congress in the 2026 mid-term election. CRUZ: “Last night should be a warning sign. It should be a warning sign to Republicans across this country. The left. They're energized. They're angry. Democrats are out raising Republicans right now, 3-1, 4-1. “I think, on our side, the Republicans, and they're just people who are common sense in the middle, who I fear are feeling potentially complacent. That is really, really dangerous. The left showed up in big numbers last night, and common sense conservatives did not if that happens a year from now, we face disaster in the midterms.” Most major US airports are among 40 targeted for shutdown flight cuts Airports in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago are among 40 of the busiest across America where flights will be cut starting Friday due to the government shutdown, reports The Associated Press. The Federal Aviation Administration announced Wednesday it would reduce air traffic by 10% across “high-volume” markets to maintain travel safety as air traffic controllers go unpaid and exhibit signs of strain during the shutdown. The affected airports in more than two dozen states include the busiest ones across the U.S., including Atlanta, Denver, Dallas, Orlando, Miami, and San Francisco. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi retires at 85 Nancy Pelosi, the first female speaker of the House and one of the most powerful women in modern American politics, will retire from Congress next year, reports Politico.com. The San Francisco liberal Democrat, who announced her decision Thursday, had come under increasing pressure to step aside amid her party's widening generational divide. Now 85, she defied political observers in 2023 when she ran for a 20th congressional term despite Democrats losing the House and her speakership the year before. But next year, she faced a tougher-than-expected group of primary challengers. Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America gave Pelosi a grade of “F” on the life issue. Most recently, she opposed protecting babies who are born alive after an attempted abortion and she supported using taxpayer dollars under the Biden-Harris administration to pay for a female soldier to travel to get an abortion. Pelosi also faced personal struggles in recent years that fueled speculation about her political future. Just before the 2022 midterms, David DePape broke into the Pelosi's San Francisco mansion and attacked Paul Pelosi, her husband, with a hammer. He was sentenced to life in prison. And last year, she underwent hip replacement surgery after suffering an injury while traveling. Singer alleges Gold's Gym terminated membership after complaint about man in women's locker room A Los Angeles-based singer is calling for a boycott of Gold's Gym after claiming her membership was terminated for raising concerns about a man, who was pretending to be a woman, who was allowed in the women's locker room, reports The Christian Post. In a video shared on social media on November 2, Tish Hyman, age 42, was seen confronting a man named Grant Freeman, who goes by the name “Alexis,” wearing earrings and a necklace in the women's locker room of a Gold's Gym location at Beverly Center. Hyman said the gym “had me escorted out by officers afterwards. It was EMBARRASSING! I left but not before making sure everyone KNEW that they were allowing MEN in the [women's] locker room!” In response to Hyman's viral videos, women's advocate and former swimmer Riley Gaines cheered on her protest in a November 3 post. The swimmer wrote, “If we saw boldness like this back in 2020, this insanity would've never been allowed to fester like it has. God bless you for speaking the truth loudly.” Genesis 1:27 says, “God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created Him; male and female He created them.” 1,200-pound polar bear gleefully eats 1,400-pound giant pumpkin And finally, it's not everyday that Henry, the polar bear, sees something that weighs more than he does. At 1,200-pounds, the polar bear was initially defensive when he saw a giant 1,400-pound pumpkin sitting in his enclosure at The Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat in Ontario, Canada, a sanctuary for polar bears in need of human care, reports GoodNewsNetwork.org. Henry eventually dug into the sweet, crunchy flesh of the mammoth yellow pumpkin. The photos will steal a chuckle out of anyone. The polar bear habitat often receive presents for their bears around Polar Bear Awareness Week. One amusing photo shows Henry, the Polar Bear, in something of a food coma after eating about a third of the pumpkin in one sitting. Sounds like our post-Thanksgiving sprawl on the couch after too much turkey, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie. Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, November 7th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.
In Acts 1:8 Jesus said, “You shall receive power after the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and you shall be witnesses.” The clear promise is that HIS power would be in US. Also that we would become witnesses. A witness is one who sees something and reports on it. We need to see, experience and witness God's miraculous power in action! Not merely by sitting and waiting, but by making it happen through the power of God. Get a vision and make it happen! I have seen many miracles. In a period of five years, only in Russia and Ukraine, we recorded more than 20,000 healings! I have a very long record with the KGB! One year I arrived in a city in Russia and they were waiting to stop me preaching – but their biggest problem was not the preaching, it was the miracles of healing! They are not afraid of preachers – they are afraid of the Power of God! They asked me, “What is your authority to heal the sick?” We opened the Word of God and showed them Mark 16, “This is what God tells us to do, it's in the Bible, ‘Lay hands on the sick and they WILL be healed!' We're going to do what the Bible says,” and they couldn't stop us!
Today,as we are looking at the last verses of Ephesians 2, we need to remember thatPaul has been talking about separation beginning in verses 11-12. TheJews were separated from the Gentiles, the Gentiles from the Jews. They bothwere separated from God because of sin. Next, we see reconciliation inverses 13-18. How now through the blood of Jesus Christ, we've been reconciledto God. We can be reconciled and have peace with one another. In these lastverses, Paul speaks of unification. Paulhas repeated the word "one" to emphasize the unifyingwork of Christ: "who has made both one" (Ephesians2:14); "to create in Himself one new man" (Ephesians2:15); "might reconcile them both to God in one body" (Ephesians2:16); and, "we both have access by one Spirit" (Ephesians2:18). All spiritual distance and division have been overcome by Christ. In theclosing verses of this chapter, Paul gives three pictures that illustrate theunity of believing Jews and Gentiles in the church. Weare now one new nation (v. 19a). Israel was God'schosen nation, but they rejected their Redeemer and suffered the consequences.The kingdom was taken from them and given to "a nation bringing forththe fruits thereof” (Matthew 21:43). This "new nation" isthe church. “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holynation, His own special people, (1 Peter 2:9-10). Inthe Old Testament, the nations were reckoned by their descent from Shem, Ham,or Japheth (Genesis 10). In the Book of Acts, we see these three familiesunited in Christ. In Acts 8, a descendant of Ham is saved, the Ethiopiantreasurer. In Acts 9, a descendant of Shem, Saul of Tarsus, who became Paul theapostle. And in Acts 10, the descendants of Japheth, the Gentiles in thehousehold of the Roman soldier, Cornelius. Sin has divided mankind, but Christunites by His Spirit. All believers, regardless of national background, belongto that "holy nation" with citizenship in heaven (Philippians3:20-21). “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly waitfor the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ". Weare now one family(v. 19b). “But fellow citizens with the saints and members of the householdof God”. Through our faith in Jesus Christ,we enter into God's family, and God becomes our Father. This wonderful familyof God is found in two places, "in heaven and earth" (Ephesians3:15). Living believers are on earth and believers who have died are in heaven.None of God's children are "under the earth" (Philippians2:10) or in any other place in the universe. We are all brothers and sisters inthe one family, no matter what racial, national, or physical distinctions wemay possess. Weare now one temple(vv. 20-22). In the Book of Genesis, God "walked" with His people.Enoch walked with God (Genesis. 5:22-24). And Noah walked with God (Genesis6:9). But then in the Book of Exodus, God decided to "dwell" with Hispeople: (Exodus 25:8). God dwelt in thetabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38) until Israel's sins caused "the glory todepart" when the Philistines captured the ark in battle. (1 Samuel 4). ThenGod dwelt in the temple Solomon built (1 Kings 8:1-11). But again Israel sinnedand the glory departed: “Then the glory of the LORD departed from thethreshold of the temple…” (Ezekiel 10:18-19). God's next dwelling place wasthe body of Christ: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and webeheld His glory " (John 1:14). But men took and nailed this body to a cross. Today,through His Spirit, God dwells in the church, the temple of God. God does notdwell in man-made temples, including church buildings (Acts 7:48-50). Goddwells in the hearts of those who have trusted Christ: (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). And God dwellsin the church collectively as we see in these last verses in Ephesians 2:20-22. Ourunity is in Christ and is best displayed when we love one another despite ourdifferences! GodBless!
Welcome to Week 4 of our transformative series Present Yourselves – Transformed for a Life of Worship! In today's powerful sermon, "Worship in Relationships," Pastor Chris dives deep into the truth that worship isn't limited to Sunday songs or quiet time alone—it's lived out through our relationships, community, and connection with others.What if worship wasn't just vertical but also horizontal?In Acts 2:42–47, we see the early church not just attending services, but building life together. Pastor Chris invites us to rediscover worship as something we live out in community, on mission, and in mutual relationship with one another. This message challenges us to resist isolation and embrace God's design for us: a life of worshiping together—in homes, in conversations, in accountability, and in love.
What are some things you are devoted to? Family? Career? A sports team? In Acts 2, we find Luke telling us what the earliest followers of Jesus were devoted to. Can those areas of devotion inform our living today as well? It's a Discover the Word study that asks us to reflect on the question "what am I devoted to?"WAYS TO LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
In Acts 26, the Apostle Paul stands before powerful leaders, falsely accused, and unfairly judged — yet completely unshaken. What looks like another delay or setback is actually part of God's divine strategy to position Paul exactly where He wants him: in Rome, fulfilling his calling.This message reminds us that God is sovereign. It is a powerful reminder that God will use flawed people to accomplish His goals on the Earth. Main Scripture: 1 Corinthians 26
This week, we continue our Why Church? series. In Acts 5:12–16, we see the apostles performing signs and wonders, many more people believing in the Lord and being added to the church, and believers bringing the sick to be healed. Pastor Eric shares three aspects of how miracles help move the mission of the church from the text: 1) The witness of wonder in a miracle (vs. 12-14) 2) The witness of faith in a miracle (vs. 15) 3) The witness of a church devoted to God's power (vs. 16)
What happens when we live open and obedient to the Spirit's leading? In Acts 8, Philip shows us that evangelism isn't about forcing outcomes but about joining the conversations God is already having with others. This message challenges us to listen, respond, and trust that God is at work wherever He leads.
How should believers respond to the power of God? In Acts 5:1–16, we witness both the sobering judgment of God and His overwhelming grace. Through the story of Ananias and Sapphira and the miraculous works done through the apostles, Scripture reminds us that signs and wonders are purposeful — they produce a holy fear of God and point us to the transforming power of the gospel. God is not only mighty to heal bodies, but to change hearts and bring sinners from darkness to light.
In Acts 18, we see Paul's ministry in Corinth marked by opposition, encouragement, and a divine call to stay. This sermon reminds us that God's presence emboldens us to remain faithful, even when the path is uncertain—and that obedience, not outcomes, defines our faithfulness.
Acts 11 commences with Peter being caused to justify why he baptised Gentiles. We next have a description of the progress of the truth in Antioch in the province of Syria, where believers were first derisively called 'Christians'. One of these faithful believers is a prophet named Agabus. He prophesies of a great famine that would affect the entire Roman world. The disciples of Antioch start a fund to help Judean believers, who were greatly affected and in dire need. In Acts 12 Herod Antipas kills the Apostle James - the year was AD 44. Seeing how much this delighted the Jews Herod has Peter arrested for execution after Passover. Despite being securely chained between guards the angel of the Lord causes a deep sleep to overcome the guards and releases Peter. Peter proceeds to the house where the ecclesia is gathered to pray for his deliverance. A maid named Rhoda answers the door and runs to tell the disciples that Peter was outside. Rhoda is told that she must be mistaken. The disciples say that it must be Peter's "messenger" (Greek angelos- angel). Peter is admitted to the house and he recounts how he had been delivered. James, the half-brother of Jesus. was informed and told Peter to secretly depart to a different location where he cannot be found. Herod kills the guards (verses 20-23). The chapter concludes with an account of Herod's narcissistic claims and his being smitten with dysentery by the angel of God and Herod dying verses 20-23. Nonetheless the Word of God exceedingly prevails.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow
The earliest followers of Jesus didn't just gather once a week—they lived their faith together. In Acts 2:42–47, we glimpse a community formed around grace: studying Scripture, sharing meals, praying, and caring for one another so that no one was in need. In this episode, Tim and Sara explore what it means to build a grace-filled community today. They remind us that community isn't optional for followers of Jesus—it's the context where faith is practiced, forgiveness is learned, and love takes shape. You'll hear how the early church's rhythms of prayer, fellowship, generosity, and devotion reveal a pattern for Christ-centered leadership in every generation. Together, Tim and Sara discuss: Why practicing community is a spiritual discipline that requires intention and grace. How transformation happens through reflection, not just information. What koinonia—true Christian fellowship—looks like beyond coffee and donuts. How Wesley's class meetings built structures of care that nurtured spiritual growth. A real-life story of a church embodying grace through radical hospitality and compassion. Grace-filled communities aren't perfect—they're prayerful, patient, and generous. They make room for God's Spirit to transform lives in ordinary ways: over a meal, during prayer, or in a conversation that brings healing. Key takeaway: Grace turns inward faith into outward action. When we practice grace in community, God multiplies it—one act of love at a time.
In Acts 11, we see that God uses unnamed believers from Cyprus and Cyrene to start a missionary movement that changes history. Considering that God uses ordinary people for extraordinary purposes, how might He want to use your unique skills, relationships, or experiences right where you are to help advance the Gospel?
In Acts 9:1–31, we witness one of the most powerful transformations in Scripture — the conversion of Saul of Tarsus. Once a persecutor of the church, Saul encounters Jesus on the road to Damascus and is forever changed. His first words after meeting the risen Lord were, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”Whether you're seeking direction, struggling with your past, or desiring a deeper walk with God, this message will remind you that Jesus still meets us on our own “Damascus roads” — not to condemn, but to call us into His purpose.
1 Timothy 3:15-16 is based on Daniel 6. Acts 4 spoke of Barnabas' generous act in selling land and donating the proceeds to the ecclesial common cause. Barnabas may well have been the rich young ruler of Matthew 19. In Acts 5 couple named: Ananias and Sapphira, want the ecclesia's acclaim without giving all of the proceeds of their sale of land. It was their right to do with their money as they pleased. Their sin lay in lying - attempting to deceive God and other believers. It cost them their lives and was a great wake-up call to the ecclesia. We are told from verse 12 of the mighty signs that support the Apostles' preaching The chapter says that Peter and John are arrested and put in the public prison overnight. The angel of the Lord comes and releases those 2 Apostles and tells them to continue to proclaim "the words of life". At daybreak Peter and John were enthusiastically preaching in the temple. The Apostles are rearrested by the officers, but this time quietly for fear of the people and once more the Jewish Council forbids them to preach full stop. The Apostles' answer in verse 29 is a message to believers for all time, "We must obey God rather than men". Their bold testimony was an evidence that they were Jesus' disciples. Gamaliel counsels his peers to desist from opposing, or harming, the Apostles, since historical evidence - Gamaliel asserts - always showed that what was not from God was doomed to fail. In chapter 6 we have a complaint from the Hellenistic believers that their widows were not being treated fairly in the daily distribution of help. Seven faithful believers of Grecian background were chosen to rectify the matter. One of the seven, Stephen, was seized by the Jewish rulers and falsely accused of speaking words against Moses and the temple. False witnesses are secured and tell lies against Stephen. Those members of the Council behold Stephen's angelic appearance and demeanour.Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow
In Acts 25, the Apostle Paul stands before powerful leaders, falsely accused, and unfairly judged — yet completely unshaken. What looks like another delay or setback is actually part of God's divine strategy to position Paul exactly where He wants him: in Rome, fulfilling his calling.This message reminds us that when our faith is on trial, God's purpose is still on schedule. Even when we're misunderstood, mistreated, or caught in systems of politics and power, God is quietly working behind the scenes to advance His kingdom through us.Like Paul, we're called to stand firm, speak truth, and trust that no human authority can derail a divine assignment. What may feel like a courtroom of defeat can actually become a platform for the gospel.
Jesus revealed Himself to the two disciples not in the classroom or temple, but around the table. In Acts, we see the early church living out this rhythm—breaking bread together with joy and generosity. This week, we reflect on how God still works through simple, shared meals to build community, deepen discipleship, and reveal His presence among us. Luke 24:28-35 (ESV)So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, but they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him. And he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem. And they found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.Acts 2:42-47 (ESV)And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
In Acts 2:42–47, we look at the second half of what the Holy Spirit helped the brand-new believers in Jerusalem focus on: learning to center their lives on Jesus—sharing meals, remembering His sacrifice, and praying together to their Father in Heaven. As they did, the Holy Spirit worked through them to help others discover the life of Jesus too—just like He does with us!
In Acts 3 we have the healing of the crippled man, who was lame from birth and more than 40 years old (4:22). This healing has many parallels with the testy of the crippled man at the pool of Bethesda in John 5. The crippled man represents Israel and their inability to walk before their God. Peter commands the lame man to fix his gaze on them, which he does expecting alms. The crippled man receives far greater -he receives healing and discipleship. And walking, and leaping, and praising God he enters the templewith Peter and John. Remarkable words of witness follow with the testimony of Peter that there is noother name given under heaven by which salvation can come than our Lord Jesus Christ. Buddhism, Hinduism and all other isms cannot save. Our Lord was the stone rejected by men, but chosen and precious to God (Psalm 118:22). Peter outlines in verses 19-26 what they must do. The rulers sendofficers in chapter 4 to arrest Peter and John. Note that the number of disciples had now reached 5,000. They were examined by the Counsel and commanded to refrain from preaching Christ Jesus. TheApostles' response is that: "We cannot cease from doing what the Almighty has commanded us". Peter and John are threatened and released. Upon joining their fellow believers, the two Apostles together withtheir assembled brothers praise the LORD and in prayer speak of what had just happened as being a fulfilment of Psalm 2. Their Sovereign's response to their prayer is a shaking of the house they were in. God is further demonstrating His power in support of their testimony. This was given as yet anotherendorsement by their God of His guarantee to support his ecclesia's faithful testimony. The spirit of unity and community is spoken of in verses 32-37. Oh, for such a spirit among believers today!Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow
What does true unity look like in the church? In Acts 4:32–37, we see a powerful picture of believers filled with the Holy Spirit—living with one heart and one soul, sharing generously, and proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus with great power. This passage reminds us that unity isn't just agreement—it's the supernatural work of God's Spirit that fuels mission, strengthens believers, and glorifies Christ.
In Acts 17, we see that Paul's sermon at the Areopagus declares that the God we long for is not unknown—He has revealed Himself in Christ. Hear how the gospel confronts idolatry and calls every heart to repentance and faith.
What roles do God and Satan play in Job's suffering and suffering throughout Scriptures?Satan appears in Job 1:6-12 and 2:1-6, 7. His hand in suffering is particularly emphasized in Job 1:12 and 2:6, 7. Satan's hand in suffering is stressed in several New Testament passages as well. In Luke 13:16 the woman Jesus heals in the synagogues is one “whom Satan has bound for eighteen years.” In Acts 10:38 Jesus went about doing good and “healing all who were oppressed of the devil.” II Cor. 12:7 describes Paul's thorn in the flesh as a “messenger of Satan.” In Jesus' letter to the church of Smyrna he says that “the devil is about to cast some of you into prison” (Rev. 2:10). Each of these passages speak of Satan, the devil playing a significant role in human suffering. There are certainly other passages that tie Satan to temptation, sin, and spiritual suffering, but now we are focusing on physical suffering. These truths from the book of Job about God's hand in human suffering are consistent with the rest of Scripture. Deuteronomy 32:39 “See now that I, I am He, and there is no god besides Me; It is who put to death and give life. I have wounded and it is I who heal, and there is no one who can deliver from My hand.”I Samuel 2:6-7 “The LORD kills and makes alive; He brings down to Sheol and raises up. The LORD makes poor and rich; He brings low, He also exalts.”Isaiah 30:26 “The LORD binds up the fracture of His people and heals the bruise He has inflicted.”Isaiah 45:7 “The One forming light and creating darkness, causing well-being and creating calamity; I am the LORD who does all these.”Jer. 32:42 “Just as I brought all this great disaster on this people, so I am going to bring on them all the good that I am promising them.”Lam. 3:37-38 “Who is there who speaks and it comes to pass, unless the LORD has commanded it? Is in not from the mouth of the Most High that both good and ill go forth?”Amos 3:6 “If a trumpet is blown in a city will not the people tremble? If a calamity occurs in a city has not the LORD done it?”Heb. 12:1-11 The hostility followers of Jesus experienced from sinners in 12:1-4 seems to be the same as the discipline of the LORD in 12:5-11. There are several events in which both God and Satan are said to be active. Jesus was led into the wilderness by the Spirit to be tempted by the devil (Matt. 4:1; Luke 4:1). The devil is trying to get Jesus to sin and undo God's entire plan of salvation. God using to the same event to qualify Jesus as the perfect high priest (Heb. 2:17-18; 4:14-16). While Paul's thorn in the flesh was a messenger of Satan, it was given to keep Paul from exalting himself (II Cor. 12:7-10). Obviously, keeping Paul from becoming proud was not Satan's purpose but it was God's purpose. While Satan entered Judas to entice him to betray Jesus (Luke 22:3; John 13:2, 27), all the things that happened around the crucifixion were to fulfill the will of God (Acts 2:23; 3:13-15; 4:27-28; 13:27). While Satan and God were both involved in these events, in none of these cases are God and Satan acting together. Satan is seeking to cause man to curse God. But God is working in the same events to seek to teach man things he would not have learned otherwise (Ps. 119:67, 71, 75). God is seeking to help man see Him more clearly than previously (Job 42:5-6). God is working to save man from sin. The message of the Bible is that nothing happens to us that is not ultimately controlled by the knowledge, love, wisdom, and power of our God of all comfort (II Cor. 1:3). The test of Job was ultimately a step in the utter defeat of Satan and not Job.
Not Righteous Professing Christians Are "Whitewashed Tombstones" - Pretty on the Outside but Dead on the Inside MESSAGE SUMMARY: A righteousness, that comes from your being in communion with the Holy Spirit, is not like a professing Christian who is really just a "whitewashed tombstone" -- pretty on the outside but dead on the inside. Rather, followers of Jesus are called to live righteous lives, as we are instructed by the Psalmist in Psalms 37:39: “The salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; he is their stronghold in the time of trouble.". Also, Paul tells us in Romans 1:17: “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.'”. In Acts 1:8, Jesus tells us, as His followers, that: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.". In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us, as His followers, that we are different and blessed; and these blessings flow from your living a righteous life in Him. Allow the Holy Spirit to create in you a clean and pure heart. TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I acknowledge that I prefer to ignore and deny my pain and loss. I struggle with seeing how resurrection life can come out of death. Grant me the courage to pay attention to what you are doing, and to wait on you — even when everything in me wants to run away. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 114). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Insensitivity. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Gentleness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 5:1-48; Romans 1:17; Romans 2:13; Psalms 70a:1-12. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “The Interior Life – Maintenance of the Inner Man -- Part 6: The Spirit” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Ever feel like modern Christianity is a buffet—plenty of options, little clarity on what truly matters? We step back from the noise and follow a trail the apostles left in plain sight, moving from belief to obedience with the Book of Acts as our map. Instead of debating labels and church traditions, we ask what Peter and Paul actually expected when they warned about not obeying the gospel, and we test our assumptions against the first-century church.We begin with a clear definition of the gospel and a harder question: what does obeying that gospel look like? From Jerusalem to Samaria to the uttermost parts of the world, four scenes show a single, consistent response: repentance, water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, and receiving the Holy Spirit. In Acts 2, Peter's answer to “What shall we do?” is direct and practical. In Acts 8, Samaritans believe, are baptized, and receive the Spirit through the apostles' hands. In Acts 10, the Spirit falls on Cornelius' household before baptism, proving God welcomes the Gentiles—and Peter immediately commands water baptism. In Acts 19, Paul meets sincere "apparent" disciples, re-baptizes them in Jesus' name, and lays his hands on them to receive the Spirit. Different places, cultures, and sequences—but one common obedience to the gospel of the kingdom.Along the way, we confront how well-meant advice and inherited customs can drift from Scripture. We offer simple questions that cut through confusion: Did you receive the Holy Spirit? Into what were you baptized? The goal is not to win an argument; it is to recover unity around the doctrine of the apostles and invite honest, Scripture-first obedience. If you've questioned why there are over 45,000 denominations, hopefully this podcast will simplify why it is so and why it was not meant to be."Message Our Father's Heart a Question or Response"Support the showThank you so much for listening and sharing with others! We would very much appreciate you continuing to FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, and LIKE us through any of the following platforms:Substack: https://ourfathersheart.substack.com/Website: ourfathersheart.orgPodcast: https://ourfathersheart.buzzsprout.com/shareTwitter: https://twitter.com/@ofathersheart Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ofathersheartYouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ourfathersheartMay God bless you and make you prosperous in Him as you listen and obey His voice!
In Acts 19 the Apostle Paul makes a return trip to Ephesus and encounters twelve disciples where he asks them if they had received the Holy Spirit since they believed. I believe if the Apostle Paul were here today he would ask that same question of some Christians today. There was something lacking in the disciples that led to that question being asked. Oftentimes there are Christians who don't have an understanding of the Holy Spirit and His role in the life of the believer. While the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is not necessary for salvation, it is needed to be an effective witness in the world today.
In Acts 3, Peter used God's gift of healing to allow God to restore a lame man. Fr. Mike reminds us that God gives us gifts so he can be known in the world and all great miracles are attributed to the name of Jesus. Fr. Mike also tells us why our suffering matters, and how God wastes nothing. Today's readings are Acts 3, Romans 4-5, and Proverbs 27:1-3. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
In Acts 23 and 24, Paul stands in the middle of his legal and spiritual trial, facing false accusations and strong opposition from both religious and political leaders. Yet even in confinement, his message remains free and his mission unstoppable. Before the Sanhedrin, Paul boldly declares his clear conscience before God and reveals that the true reason for his trial is his hope in the resurrection of the dead. Jesus appears to him, saying, “Take courage…you must also testify in Rome,” reminding Paul that his life is directed by divine purpose, not human plots. Through it all, Paul remains steadfast—a faithful witness whose calling continues even in chains.
God loves to take the ancient truth of the gospel and breathe new life into it. In Acts 7 & 8, we read of the persecution and scattering of Christians as Jewish leaders tried to stop the spread of the gospel. But this physical movement of Jesus's followers to a new place ignited a bigger movement of the Spirit in people's hearts.---Join us for service online or in-person in Grand Rapids every Sunday at 9AM & 10:45AM.Decided to follow Jesus? We would love to help you figure out what's next! Let us know at https://bit.ly/TLC-i-decidedStay Connected!Website: http://localchurchgr.orgFacebook: http://facebook.com/localchurchgrInstagram: http://instagram.com/localchurchgrWeekly Email Newsletter: https://bit.ly/trendingatTLCVisit & What to Expect: http://localchurchgr.org/expectEvents: http://my.localchurchgr.org/eventsIf you would like to support The Local Church GR's ministry and help us continue reaching people in the Grand Rapids area, click here: https://localchurchgr.org/giveNeed prayer? Please let us know! - https://localchurchgr.org/care
Welcome to Christ Community's Online Service! Sometimes seasons of chaos reveal what's really beneath the surface of our hearts. In Acts 19, a city in upheaval exposes a deeper issue that still affects us today—idolatry. Join Pastor Alan as he explores how fear, anger, and passion can uncover what we truly worship—and how the love of Jesus can bring our hearts back into alignment with Him. For prayer and to stay connected, please visit: https://www.cccgreeley.org For Giving: https://www.cccgreeley.org/give/ Discussion guide: https://cccgreeley.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2025-10-18-19-Group-Discussion-Questions.pdf It's Not Too Late to Register to Be Baptized
In Acts chapter nine we witness the conversion of Saul, who, after his encounter with the Lord on the road to Damascus, became the great Apostle Paul. It's a wonderful reminder to us that we may have committed some terrible sins in our lives, but there's nothing that God won't forgive - if we go to Him in repentance and faith.
WE OUGHT TO OBEY GOD (Acts 5:27-29) As we study the book of Acts, we have been building a bridge, and this bridge is supported by three pillars. This bridge starts on the side where we are today in our spiritual lives, and is anchored on the other side where we need to be in our relationship with God. This is what I call a bridge to the future. And there are three pillars that hold up this bridge. The first pillar is vision, and it tells us of God's plan, what God wants us to do. And it is our responsibility to get alone with God, in such a way that we can hear God and have a vision, a dream, not a daydream, not autosuggestion, but to hear from God. For where there is no vision, the people perish. But once we've caught the vision, God's plan, then we need the power. That is the second pillar, and the power is faith, faith to believe God. Because when we believe God, God comes in with His mighty power. And God energizes us to do what we need to do. And a vision without faith is not really a vision at all. But, there can be no faith until we have the vision, because faith is a response to God. Faith is getting a word from God and believing it. But now, wait a moment. Yes, there must be a vision. Yes, there must be faith. There must be a plan, and there must be power. But here is where the rubber meets the road. There must be a third pillar and that is performance. Three pillars, vision, power, and performance. For there to be performance, there must be obedience. You see, without obedience, vision and faith are empty words. There can be no real obedience until we hear from God. And, we cannot obey without faith. But oh, if we would learn today the expedience of obedience! In Acts chapter five, we are going to find this word: “we ought to obey God”. That is the title of the message: We Ought to Obey God. There is a great old hymn that says, “Trust and obey; for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.” As a matter of fact, if you don't obey, then you are really not trusting. Our English word “believe” comes from the old English phrase, “by live”. Which just means that what we really believe we live by. The rest is just religious talk. “Trust and obey; for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.” Click on the link below to hear a message on how this church is no greater than the faith and obedience of its people. In your family, in your personal life, your personal life is no greater than your trust and your obedience. This is a live recording of The Master's Class Bible Study at LifeChange Church Wichita, KS. Amen.
In Acts 16, we learn four small acts that lead to a big move of God.
In Acts 5, we see what fueled the passion of the early church to take seriously their call to be witnesses of Jesus. Their boldness came from knowing what He had done, trusting the power of the Spirit, and surrendering fully to God's will. This message calls us to remember the joy of the gospel and to share that good news wherever God has placed us.
In Acts 2:42–47, we get to see the birth of the church—a group of people who were given the presence of the Holy Spirit and His power to follow Jesus and to share the good news of Jesus with those around them. This is where the story of the church begins!
Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Job 1-2; Acts 6-7 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible podcast! In today's episode, recorded on October 17th, 2025, Hunter—your host and Bible reading coach—guides us through a profound journey in scripture, exploring the beginnings of the book of Job (chapters 1 and 2) and continuing through the impactful story found in Acts chapters 6 and 7. Hunter opens with a warm greeting and a reminder of God's promise for abundant life through Jesus. Together, we witness Job's world being stripped away and unravelled, yet his unwavering faith becomes a testament to spiritual endurance and the comfort of God's presence, even in silence. In Acts, the story of Stephen unfolds—his faith, wisdom, and courage shine as he faces accusations, delivers a passionate speech recounting Israel's history, and ultimately forgives his persecutors in the midst of suffering. This episode draws us toward the heart of God, who sits with us in our grief and restores us, embodying co-suffering love through Jesus. Hunter wraps up with prayers for peace, perspective, and thanksgiving, encouraging us to allow God to elevate our perspective and fill us with His joy. So, settle in as we reflect on endurance, grace, and new perspectives—discovering the reminder that through it all, you are deeply loved. TODAY'S DEVOTION: He comes to sit with us in our suffering. As we open the book of Job today, we are invited into the depths of pain, loss, and silent grief. Job, a man of integrity, is plunged into unimaginable suffering as all is taken from him – his family, his wealth, his health. He is undone, stripped bare, descending into a silence that is "too deep for words.” His friends come and sit with him, not offering answers, but sharing in his sorrow, simply being present in his suffering. Yet the story goes deeper. Job's pain and silence point beyond his own experience to something profoundly divine. Even though we don't see it yet in the story, God Himself has come to sit with Job, too. This is the remarkable message of the Bible: that God does not remain distant from our suffering; He draws near. Not as one seeking to offer easy answers or to blame, like Job's friends, but as One who fully identifies with our pain. In His silence and presence, God sits in the midst of all the suffering and darkness. Job's story points us to Jesus, the One who steps into the depths of humanity's pain. Jesus comes and puts on flesh to sit with us, bearing all our suffering in His own body. He abolishes death, sin, and the grave through His co-suffering love. He restores us, heals us, and renews the very nature of humanity in Himself. Here in Job's story, we are given a picture of the God who comes and sits with us, right where we are, just as we are. In Jesus, God enters into the brokenness and offers Himself for us. He does not promise that life will be free from hardship, but He does promise His presence – presence so deep and abiding that even in our silence and sorrow, we are not alone. May we see in Job the God who draws near in our darkest hours, who sits with us in our pain, and who restores us to life. May we recognize Jesus, who tasted death for all, and offers comfort for every broken heart. That's the prayer that I have for my own soul. That's the prayer that I have for my family, for my wife, my daughters, my son. And that's a prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen. Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. And now Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. And where there is sadness, Joy. Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life. Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ. Amen. OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation. 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Deliverance is a spiritual house cleaning. We are responsible for 3 areas. 1. Personally. 2. Getting witchcraft out of your family. 3. Purging the Land of Evil. God means for witchcraft to be destroyed and completely removed from your life. And it's not just evil that gets us in trouble. It is when we try to mix good and evil together. Comprise or agreement with the enemy at any level leaves an open door for the enemy. In Acts 19 they destroyed all the witchcraft books and objects by fire. Even objects from witchcraft must be removed. God wants and is willing to set you completely free, but witchcraft has to be completely cut out of your life.
In Acts 19, Paul asked a simple question: “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”Tonight, Pastor Kelli reminds us that God has immeasurably more for His people through the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit isn't distant—He's our Helper, Comforter, Teacher, Defender, and Friend. We are called not just to know about Him but to be filled and refilled daily with His power, strength, and presence.
What happens when the gospel collides with culture? In Acts 17, Paul arrives in Thessalonica and begins reasoning with the Jews in the synagogue. For three weeks, he opens the Scriptures, connecting the prophecies of the Old Testament to the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The result is explosive. Some believe, joining Paul and Silas in following Christ, while others resist violently. A mob forms, riots erupt, and Paul's host Jason is dragged before city officials, accused of treason and upsetting the entire world.In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, Stephen Davey unpacks this dramatic moment in church history. Paul's message was clear: Jesus is not just a religious figure but the true King, the sovereign Monarch of all creation. That claim directly challenged the decrees of Caesar, forcing listeners to choose between loyalty to Rome or to Christ.The story of Thessalonica reminds us that Christianity is not about keeping peace with the status quo—it's about proclaiming the truth that changes lives and cultures. It challenges divided hearts, calls for full allegiance to Jesus, and invites us to live boldly under His rule. Discover how the same gospel that turned the world upside down in the first century still speaks with authority and clarity today.Stephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback
What happens when the gospel collides with culture? In Acts 17, Paul arrives in Thessalonica and begins reasoning with the Jews in the synagogue. For three weeks, he opens the Scriptures, connecting the prophecies of the Old Testament to the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The result is explosive. Some believe, joining Paul and Silas in following Christ, while others resist violently. A mob forms, riots erupt, and Paul's host Jason is dragged before city officials, accused of treason and upsetting the entire world.In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, Stephen Davey unpacks this dramatic moment in church history. Paul's message was clear: Jesus is not just a religious figure but the true King, the sovereign Monarch of all creation. That claim directly challenged the decrees of Caesar, forcing listeners to choose between loyalty to Rome or to Christ.The story of Thessalonica reminds us that Christianity is not about keeping peace with the status quo—it's about proclaiming the truth that changes lives and cultures. It challenges divided hearts, calls for full allegiance to Jesus, and invites us to live boldly under His rule. Discover how the same gospel that turned the world upside down in the first century still speaks with authority and clarity today.Stephen's latest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback
Peter's shadow healed the sick not because he was special, but because of his proximity to Jesus. In Acts 5:12-16, we see that shadows only exist when light is present, and Peter's closeness to Christ allowed God's power to flow through him. The question isn't whether we're perfect, but whether we're positioned close enough to God's light that His presence radiates through us. Many believers have drifted from the fire, becoming more concerned with building platforms than reflecting Christ's presence. God seeks intercessors, not influencers - people who prioritize private prayer and intimacy with Him over public recognition.
In Acts 23, the Apostle Paul stands before the Saducees and Pharisees people and the authorities to share his life-changing encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. In this message, we explore how God can transform your past mistakes, setbacks, and struggles and use those very setbacks to propel you forward. Learn how to:Accept the past Allow the past to propel you forward Turn your past into a platform to help others move forward Main scripture: Acts 23
In Acts 21, we encounter a powerful moment in Paul's life as he journeys toward Jerusalem, “constrained by the Spirit,” knowing imprisonment and suffering await him. Though believers along the way receive prophetic warnings and plead with him not to go, Paul remains steadfast, saying he is ready “not only to be imprisoned but even to die for the name of the Lord Jesus.” This passage reveals a key truth about the Spirit's work: revelation may be clear, but interpretation and application require humility and community discernment. Paul listens carefully yet stays obedient to what he has discerned, modeling courage and submission. In the end, the believers surrender and say, “Let the will of the Lord be done,” reminding us that the Spirit's purpose is not to control or confuse, but to guide us together into truth, love, and faithful obedience.Clarity Through Humility & Unity