Podcasts about in acts

This week, we tackle one of the most pivotal proclamations in church history—salvation by grace alone. In Acts 15, the early church wrestles with a critical question: Is Jesus' grace enough, or do we need to add religious requirements? As Paul and Barnabas report how Gentiles are coming to Christ, some insist on circumcision and law-keeping for salvation. But Peter reminds them—and us—that grace can't be earned, it shows no favoritism, and it demands a response of gratitude, not religious striving.We often create our own chains of performance—rules, expectations, or spiritual checklists. But Jesus broke every one of those chains. He set us free from trying to earn God's love. So stop striving and start living in joyful response to His grace!Key truth: We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus alone—no additives, no exceptions, no chains.

Pastor Jonathan Barbee continues our series through the book of Acts. In Acts 21:17–26, we see a powerful example of how to handle concerns and potential conflict within the body of Christ. When Paul arrived in Jerusalem, there were misunderstandings and tensions among believers about his ministry. Rather than reacting defensively, Paul responded with sensitivity, recognizing the importance of others' perspectives and being careful not to cause division. Scripture reminds us to lead by example and to prioritize the spiritual health of others over our own preferences.Paul also demonstrated submission by willingly following the guidance of the church leaders in Jerusalem, choosing unity over personal rights. Hebrews 13:17 reinforces the value of trusting and respecting godly leadership. Finally, Paul's actions reflected deep commitment. Even when it required personal sacrifice, he remained faithful to his calling and dedicated to the mission of the Gospel. His example challenges us to respond to concerns—not with pride or resistance—but with humility, love, and unwavering commitment to Christ and His Church. July 13, 2025

In Acts 25, Paul stands trial yet again—this time before corrupt leaders, false accusations, and shifting political schemes. Outwardly, he is a prisoner, but inwardly, Paul is the freest man in the room. This passage reminds us that true freedom isn't found in circumstances but in Christ. As we see Paul entrust himself to God's sovereign hand, we're invited to trust that no earthly power can derail God's purposes. Come discover how the unstoppable Gospel shines bright even when surrounded by worldly power—and how we, like Paul, can live unchained.

In Acts 8, we see a powerful moment where God weaves two stories together—Philip's obedience and the Ethiopian official's search for truth. In this sermon, we're reminded to love people and trust God with the story he's writing. Even when things are hard or unclear, we can obey with confidence, knowing that the author of the big story is the same one guiding our little ones, and his ending is always redemption.

Sharing your faith doesn't require a stage, just a willing heart. Whether it's a moment like KidFest, where over 1,000 kids heard the gospel, or a quiet conversation in your everyday life, the rhythm of sharing invites us to live and speak in ways that point others to Jesus. In Acts 8, Philip responds without hesitation, reveals the truth about Jesus, and repeats the mission wherever he goes. If your life has been changed by Jesus, you already have everything you need to help someone else meet him, too. About this Series: This summer at Calvary, we're taking a fresh look at the spiritual rhythms that formed the first Christians. These weren't religious routines or programs; they were patterns of grace that naturally flowed from knowing Jesus – habits like prayer, community, generosity, worship, and mission. Whether you're in the midst of family life or learning to walk through a quieter season, these rhythms can help deepen your walk with Jesus. They're not about doing more, but about living more fully…rooted in God's story of redemption, and in step with Jesus in your everyday life. Subscribe for More: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdBjWoX3iFFfi7rhni6iUxQ?sub_confirmation=1 Learn More on Our Website: https://www.calvary-church.com Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calvarychurchpennsylvania and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calvarychurchpennsylvania #calvary #church #christian #sermon #message #souderton #quakertown #pennsylvania

In Acts 16, we find Paul and Silas worshipping in prison, choosing hymns of hope in the darkest of circumstances. Their unwavering faith led to a miracle, not only freeing them but also bringing salvation to the jailer and his family. Pastor Dave Dummitt teaches that worship isn't merely about enduring hardships, it's about transforming lives and pointing others to Jesus. Their example calls us to embrace radical worship, understanding that our praise has the power to impact those around us and lead them to faith.

Evangelism is a tricky thing, isn't it? On the one hand, it's something that can seem so foreign and uncomfortable to us (in part due to some really bad examples we've gotten). And on the other hand, it's something that we often see reserved for a select few who God has called for that purpose.In Acts chapter 20, Paul makes what shouldn't be, but often is a stunning revelation: that the job of evangelism belongs to all of us. In fact, as believers, it is THE race that we are called to run.So how do we overcome the various obstacles that stop us from testifying? That's what we dove into this weekend, while also reframing our view of evangelism so that we learn to see it in the correct light and hold it with the significance that it deserves. Tune into this week's message called, “Outta My Comfort Zone”.Join us for service online or in person every Sunday at 8am, 9:30am, 11am, & 12:30pm (PST).If you want to share how God is moving in your life through this ministry, please let us know at info@captivatesd.com!Decided To Follow Jesus? Sign up to receive a copy of our “I Have Decided” booklets - https://shorturl.at/GymIkGet plugged in!Next Steps - captivatesd.com/next-stepsVisit - captivatesd.com/visitCommunities - captivatesd.com/communitiesIf you would like to support Captivate financially you can give online through our website by clicking here captivatesd.com/giving Need prayer? Please let us know! - https://captivatesd.churchcenter.com/people/forms/597023For more information about Captivate Church, visit captivatesd.com or follow us on our social media platforms below.Instagram - Instagram.com/captivatechurchsdFacebook - facebook.com/captivatesdWatch More Messages: youtube.com/@CaptivateChurch/videos

Have you ever felt the pain of being passed over—even when you were qualified, prepared, and passionate? You're not alone. In Acts 1, two faithful disciples, Matthias and Joseph Barsabas Justus, both met every requirement to become the next apostle. Yet, only Matthias was chosen.How do we handle rejection when we've done everything right? What if God's plan leads us down a path we didn't expect? In this episode, we'll uncover the quiet strength found in surrendering our plans to God's greater purpose. Discover how to navigate disappointment, avoid the trap of emotional reactions, and confidently trust in the Spirit's guidance—even when the answer is “no.”

In Acts 9, a man of faithful prayer called Ananias plays a key role in helping to raise up a leader who would change the world - the Apostle Paul. This week, Sarah looks at what we can learn from the life of Ananias to encourage us in how the Holy Spirit is wanting to move amongst and beyond us!

What do you do when plans fall apart, people disappoint, or even God seems silent? In Acts 16, Paul faced a series of closed doors and painful adversity. Yet, those obstacles were not rejections—they were redirections. This message reminds us that God often uses difficulty to develop our character, deepen our praise, and unlock opportunities for others to experience salvation. Even in life's darkest “prisons,” we can persist, praise, and extend pardon—trusting that God is working behind the scenes to lead us where He wants us most.

What do you do when the world around you feels lost and hopeless? In Acts 17:16-34, Paul shows us a God-centred way to meet people where they're at, gently challenge their beliefs with the truth, and boldly call everyone to turn and trust Jesus.

the call is to make Christ not only Savior but Lord, to live lives that bear fruit of repentance, and to be ready for the day when he returns as Judge.In Acts 17, James Oguttu that Serving God doesn't always require a supernatural sign; sometimes, it's simply seeing a need and stepping up. Paul's initiative to revisit the churches was not prompted by a direct word from the Spirit, but by discernment and care.

Have you ever felt pressure to stay quiet about your faith? Maybe at work, at school, or even around friends or family in moments when speaking up for Jesus felt risky? In Acts, 5, the apostles face real threats: prison, flogging, even death. But they didn't shrink back. Instead, they lived under God's authority, feared Him more than men, and rejoiced when suffering for Christ. This passage calls us to that same boldness in a world that often pushes back against our witness.

In Acts 4-5, we see a contrast between Barnabas and Ananias and Sapphira. Barnabas displays a heart that loves God and freely gives all, while Ananias and Sapphira pretend to bring it all. Do you look more like Barnabas or Ananias and Sapphira?

Timothy's call to ministry began with character, was confirmed by others, and involved personal sacrifice. In Acts 16, we see that following God's call often requires surrender—not to earn salvation, but to remove barriers to the gospel. Paul's circumcision of Timothy wasn't compromise—it was strategy. When God calls, are you willing to go and let go?

In Acts chapter four, we find Peter and John before the religious authorities, accused of saying things that were quite contrary to the accepted teaching of the time. But Peter and John were defiant, they were on fire for the Lord, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit. What a great example for Christians today, who face some unprecedented challenges in a fallen world. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1425/29

     Paul wrote to Christians, “don't get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit” (Eph 5:18 CSB). If a believer consumes too much alcohol, it can lead to cognitive impairment and harmful behavior. But the believer who is filled with the Spirit will possess divine viewpoint and manifest the fruit of godliness, worship, and thankfulness to the Lord (Eph 5:19-20). To be filled with the Spirit (Eph 5:18) means to be under the guiding influence of the Holy Spirit, who directs the believer's thoughts, attitudes, and actions in accordance with God's revealed will in Scripture. It does not mean getting more of the Spirit—every believer already has the indwelling Spirit from the moment of salvation (1 Cor 6:19; Gal 3:2). Rather, it means the Holy Spirit gets more of you—your mind, your volition, your conduct. According to Chafer, “To be filled with the Spirit is to have the Spirit fulfilling in us all that He came into our hearts to do.”[1]      The Greek word translated filled is πληρόω (plēroō), which literally means “to make full” (BDAG, 827), but it often carries the figurative sense of being dominated, influenced, or characterized by something.[2] In Ephesians 5:18, the present passive imperative form (πληροῦσθε) indicates a continuous command for the believer to keep on being filled—that is, habitually directed and empowered by the Spirit. The passive voice implies this is something done to us, not by us; it's not something we manufacture, but something we allow through yielding. The imperative mood makes it a command to be obeyed, and this by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38).      This idea of internal influence is seen elsewhere—where hearts are filled with sorrow (John 16:6), minds with divine wisdom (Col 1:9), or lives with righteous fruit (Phil 1:11). In each case, the idea is a dominating influence that shapes behavior (cf. Luke 4:28; 5:26; Acts 13:45). Likewise, being filled with the Spirit means being so under His influence that our attitudes, decisions, and actions align with God's will. Ephesians 5:18-21 shows the fruit of Spirit-filling: joyful singing, gratitude, and submission. The parallel in Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you,” linking the Spirit's filling with Scripture's influence. The Spirit of God guides us by means of the Word of God, which He helps us understand and which He recalls to our thinking when needed. As we learn to walk by the Spirit (Gal 5:16), in step with His guidance, the fruit of the Spirit becomes manifest (Gal 5:22-23). The Spirit Illumines and Recalls Scripture      The Spirit of God teaches us, illumines our minds, and recalls Scripture for us to obey. Jesus told His disciples in John 16 that the Holy Spirit would “guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13), and that “He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you” (John 14:26). This promise, originally given to the apostles, has a broader application in the Church Age, as the Spirit continues to illuminate God's Word for all believers (1 Cor 2:12-13).      The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to shape and direct the child of God. He brings light to the text and light to the heart, enabling us not only to understand Scripture but to recall and apply it in real-time situations (cf. Psa 119:105). This is the backbone of spiritual growth—learning Bible doctrine, storing it in the heart, and then watching the Spirit activate that truth when it's most needed (John 17:17; 2 Tim 3:16-17). The Christian who walks by the Spirit is not passive but mentally engaged, saturated with Scripture, and spiritually responsive, willing to do God's will. As Christians learn and apply Scripture, they are wielding “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph 6:17). Walk by Faith      After being born again by faith alone in Christ alone (Rom 3:28; Gal 2:16; Eph 2:8-9), we are to continue in faith. Paul wrote, “as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him” (Col 2:6). We received Jesus by faith, and after being born again, we are to “walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor 5:7). The word “walk” translates the Greek verb peripateō (περιπατέω), which is here used as a metaphor for how we live, behave, or habitually conduct our lives. To walk by faith means we learn and apply God's Word to our lives (i.e., marriage, family, education, work, finances, etc.). It means obeying God's directives, claiming His promises, and utilizing His resources for our daily problems. We are also instructed to “walk by the Spirit” and not the flesh (Gal 5:16). When we live by faith and depend on the Spirit for strength and guidance, we “walk in a manner worthy of the calling” with which we have been called (Eph 4:1).      As Christians, we are commanded to “walk by the Spirit” (Gal 5:16), which means walking in daily, moment by moment, dependance of the Spirit's guidance. This means learning God's Word and applying it by faith. The walk of faith and walking by the Spirit are not two different paths—they are one and the same. Both describe the Christian life lived in moment-by-moment dependence on God. Walking by faith means trusting in God's promises, character, and provisions even when circumstances seem contrary (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:1, 6). Walking by the Spirit means yielding to the Spirit's guidance, relying on His power, and following His lead in obedience to the Word (Gal 5:16, 25). These are complementary perspectives on the same spiritual reality.      The Spirit of God never leads contrary to the Word of God. And the life of faith is never disconnected from the Spirit's enablement. Just as we are justified by grace through faith (Rom 5:1), we are also sanctified by grace through faith—by walking in step with the Spirit (Gal 3:3). That means trusting Him to empower us to say “no” to the flesh and “yes” to righteousness (Rom 6:11-14; Gal 5:22-23). Faith is the channel, and the Spirit is the agent. When we walk by the Spirit, we walk by faith; and when we walk by faith, we're relying on the Spirit's power, not our own effort.      In practical terms, walking by the Spirit through faith means living each day in confident trust that God's Word is true, God's Spirit is present, and God's grace is sufficient. We don't always feel spiritual—but we can always choose to trust. It's a mindset of humble dependence that says, “Lord, I believe Your Word, and I'm counting on You to work through me today.” Summary      In summary, to be filled with the Spirit is to live the Christian life under divine influence—thinking God's thoughts, responding with His wisdom, and walking in His will. It is not an emotional high or mystical experience but a steady, faith-dependent surrender to the Spirit's guidance through the Word of God. The Spirit illumines, teaches, and recalls truth so that the believer can obey in real time. He empowers what Scripture commands and aligns our lives with God's desires. This filling is not about getting more of the Spirit but about the Spirit getting more of us—our thoughts, our attitudes, our choices. As we walk by faith, saturated with Scripture and yielded to His leading, the Spirit produces His fruit in and through us. This is the healthy Christian life: not self-powered but Spirit-enabled; not works-based but grace-driven. The filling of the Spirit is how we live out the righteousness we've received in Christ—it's the engine behind all true spiritual growth, and it happens one step of faith at a time. Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.   [1] Lewis Sperry Chafer, The Ephesian Letter (New York: Loizeaux Brothers, 1935), 151. [2] The Greek word πίμπλημι (pimplēmi) communicates a similar idea. For example, in Luke 4:28, the people in the synagogue were “filled with rage” when Jesus exposed their unbelief. Similarly, Luke 5:26 describes a crowd that was “filled with fear” after witnessing a miracle, showing how awe and reverence seized their hearts. In Acts 13:45, the Jewish leaders “were filled with jealousy” upon seeing the crowds gather to hear Paul—they didn't just envy, they were controlled by envy, and it drove them to oppose the gospel.

"In the same way faith by itself, if it is not accompanied action, it is dead". In week 16 of Acts Unstoppable, we focus on Acts 15.In Acts 15, Micah Mayanja encourages us to contend for our faith and fight for what is true.

Hello, and thanks for being here for today's Something Good Radio message with Dr. Ron Jones. In Acts chapter twenty-six, we find one of the Apostle Paul's longest recorded speeches. Appearing before King Agrippa, he defends not only his words and actions, but the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And as usual, the Apostle's presentation was truthful, but cheerful, gritty but gracious. Ron takes us to this dramatic confrontation next, as he moves ahead in his teaching series, “Paul: Surprised by Grace.” 

 #Persecution #freedom In the chaos of life, can true freedom still be found? In Acts, the early church grew even under persecution. This message by Pastor Jon Sanders, he talks about how real freedom isn't about our circumstances, but about our surrender to Christ. Acts 16:16–40   Please follow our websites for more!

In the Gospels, the main figure is clearly Jesus. As a “sequel” to the Gospels, Acts of the Apostles might seem to shift the focus from Jesus to his 12 disciples as the main players. But the central figure of Acts is the person of the Holy Spirit. What do we see the Holy Spirit do time and time again in Acts? The Holy Spirit fills up and raises up new leaders, including many beyond the roster of the original disciples.On Sunday we'll learn more about why leadership is so key to the Spirit's work and what marks a Spirit-led leader. We'll also continue to invite the work of the Spirit in our midst by having an opportunity to receive the Spirit's power and the gift of leadership.- Series Description -Among the most compelling stories in the Bible are several contained in the Book of Acts, written by the humble and gentle physician, Luke. In Acts, Luke tells the story of the birth and expansion of the church in the early decades following the Lord's death, resurrection, and ascension. He tells the story of the coming and work of the Holy Spirit, the ministry of the Apostles Peter and Paul, and of other early saints. He tells the story of early opposition to the faith, of the first martyrs, and of the courage of early Christians in the face of resistance and even death. At the beginning of the book, the Christian community is limited to Jewish believers mostly in and around Jerusalem; by the end of the book, the church is growing and expanding among Jewish and Gentile communities throughout the Mediterranean world and beyond. Come out for this 10 week series and join us in living out in our own day and time what it is to be the church together.

How can people tell you've been with Jesus without you even saying a word? In Acts 4, the religious leaders are stunned by the boldness of two “ordinary” men, Peter and John. This week, Pastor Tim Breen explores how time with Jesus transforms us.

How Faithfulness Brings Big Rewards! | Ralph Royea | Touch Heaven Community Church Fire-Works We come into Sunday after having the last few evenings lit up with the sights and sounds of fireworks. An illustrative reminder that the freedom and independence we celebrate as a nation came with a price tag of tears, wounds, scars, blood, limbs, and, for some, their very lives. Now, through Christ's suffering, we have Independence. We are no longer slaves to sin or the bondage of this world. We are made new and have, by faith, been given authority and dominion, none of this without great expense. Our nation celebrates Independence Day with fireworks. Can we celebrate our Salvation and Independence Day, trusting that the Fire Works? Jeremiah tells us that the Word of God is like Fire, and Elijah described Yahweh as the God who answers by fire. The Lord's ministers are ministers of Fire. In Acts, it was wind and tongues of Fire that rested on the heads of the believers. Isaiah's lips were touched by coal from the altar. Let us continue to fear, reverence, and respect God by living in, trusting in, and working through His Fire. Let us continue to present ourselves as a living sacrifice, and let the fire of the altar never burn out.

In Acts 15, the first Church Council meeting was held. The topic: circumcision. The attendees: Peter, Paul, James, Barnabas, and the other apostles and elders.Does that information sound relevant to you? If you're a Christian (and even if you're not!) - - it might just be the most relevant + important council ever held for your faith + life.In this sermon, Pastor Kevin unpacks the importance of this Church Council meeting - by way of a much more relevant (in terms of timing) cultural artifact.Listen and consider how their conclusion impacts you this day!

What does it mean to never forget? There are moments in life that are so significant, so transformative, that they become woven into the very fabric of who we are. These are not just memories; they are defining encounters that shape our story. For me, one such moment was the first time I read John 3:16 as a child, not in a church, but in a motel room after seeing the verse on a sign at a football game. I didn't fully understand it then, but the seed was planted—a seed that would bear fruit a decade later when I surrendered my life to Christ. God's Word never returns void; it works in us, sometimes quietly, until the day it changes everything.In Acts 8, we see another unforgettable encounter—Philip and the Ethiopian official. Philip, in the midst of a thriving ministry in Jerusalem, is called by the Spirit to leave the action and go to a desert road. Without hesitation, he obeys. There, he meets a high-ranking Ethiopian who is reading Isaiah but doesn't understand it. Philip runs to him, joins his chariot, and simply opens his mouth to share Jesus, starting from the very scripture the Ethiopian was reading. The result is immediate: the Ethiopian believes, is baptized, and goes on his way rejoicing, even as Philip is miraculously taken away.This story is a powerful reminder that God orchestrates divine appointments, sometimes pulling us away from the familiar or the exciting to reach one searching soul. It's a call to radical obedience—arise when He calls, go where He sends, and run when He shows you the opportunity. The Ethiopian's response is especially striking: after Philip disappears, his focus is not on the miracle but on the joy of salvation. He is so transformed by his encounter with Christ that nothing can distract him from rejoicing in what God has done.The difference between remembering and never forgetting is the weight of significance. The cross of Christ, the gift of eternal life, and the call to share this good news—these are things we must never forget. They are the moments and truths that change us forever, grounding us in joy and purpose no matter what else happens around us.Chapters: [00:00] - Welcome[00:43] - Remembering vs. Never Forgetting[02:12] - A Life-Changing Encounter at Heathrow[03:31] - Family, Life Group, and Finding Community[05:16] - Jesus Changed My Life[06:37] - Football, John 3:16, and Childhood Memories[09:06] - The Motel Room and Discovering John 3:16[11:51] - Seeds Planted: God's Word Never Returns Void[13:58] - Reading Acts 8: Philip and the Ethiopian[17:29] - The Early Church and the Power of the Spirit[22:13] - Philip: Called to Serve and Sent Out[26:13] - Arise When He Calls You[31:00] - Obedience in Albania: A Personal Story[33:31] - Divine Appointments on the Desert Road[35:46] - Run When He Shows You[40:48] - Philip Opens His Mouth: Sharing Jesus[42:23] - Baptism: What Hinders Me?[44:23] - My Baptism Story[47:10] - The Miracle and the Greater Joy[49:23] - Rejoicing in Salvation[50:27] - Never Forget: The Cross Changes Everything[52:06] - Closing Prayer and Sending

In Acts chapter nine, God said the Apostle Paul would one day appear before Gentile governors and kings. More than a quarter century later, that day was finally here. Today, Ron takes us to Acts chapter twenty-five, and to the Apostle Paul's appearance before King Agrippa. It's all part of our continuing series, “Paul: Surprised by Grace,” and it comes your way next.  

It's Thursday, July 3rd, 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 Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Russia's tight restrictions on missionary activity Individuals and religious groups across Russia continue to face charges of “unlawful missionary activity.” Forum 18 reports the country has conducted 34 such prosecutions this year, an increase compared to recent years. A dozen of these cases affected evangelical Christians. Pastors were fined simply for evangelizing or holding unauthorized church services. Russia enacted tight restrictions on sharing religious beliefs in 2016. The country also imposed “anti-missionary” legislation in occupied Ukrainian territories.  In Acts 5:29, the apostles said, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” Biologically accurate pronouns allowed despite Australia's wokeness Free speech advocates won a big case against Australia this week. At issue is a post on Elon Musk's social media platform X that used biologically accurate pronouns to identify a transgender individual. Australia's eSafety Commissioner ordered X to remove the post, but X challenged the order. On Tuesday, Australia's Administrative Review Tribunal sided with X in the case.  Paul Coleman with Alliance Defending Freedom International said, “In this case, the Australian government alarmingly censored the peaceful expression of a Canadian citizen on an American-owned platform, evidence of the expansive reach of censorial forces, even beyond national borders. Today, free speech has prevailed.” Elon Musk wants to found The American Party which will cut the deficit Speaking of Elon Musk, the tech billionaire called for a new political party in the U.S. On Monday, he posted on X, “If this insane spending bill passes, The America Party will be formed the next day. Our country needs an alternative to the Democrat-Republican uniparty so that the people actually have a VOICE.”  Musk openly opposes President Donald Trump's “One Big Beautiful Bill” for its deficit spending. Afraid of losing $175m, U of Penn agrees to stop transgender nonsense The University of Pennsylvania is backing down from its support for transgenderism. The Trump administration threatened to withhold $175 million in funding to the school for allowing men to compete in women's sports, reports CNN. UPenn came to an agreement with the U.S. Department of Education recently to protect women's sports. Notably, the school will strip a transgender swimmer of his medals. The male swimmer, Will Thomas, who now goes by the feminine name “Lia” Thomas, has been pretending to be a woman, enabling him to win medals by competing in women's sports. Riley Gaines, a former University of Kentucky swimmer, said, “It is my hope that today demonstrates to educational institutions that they will no longer be allowed to trample upon women's civil rights.” Wisconsin Supreme Court strikes down 176-year-old abortion ban Wisconsin's Supreme Court struck down the state's 176-year-old abortion ban yesterday. The 1849 law made most abortions a felony. But the high court ruled 4-3 that more recent legislation superseded the law. Wisconsin only has a ban on late-term abortions now. Heather Weininger, Executive Director of Wisconsin Right to Life, told LifeNews, “The court did not point to a single state statute that specifically repeals [the law]. To assert that a repeal is implied is to legislate from the bench.” Jimmy Swaggart, known for his “I have sinned” confession, died at 90 Remember this?  JIMMY SWAGGART: “I have sinned against You, my Lord, and I would ask that Your precious blood would wash and cleanse every stain until it is in the seas of God's forgetfulness. Thank you. Thank you.” That was the tearful confession on February 21, 1988 of televangelist Jimmy Swaggart at the Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana after it became public that he had an encounter with a lady of the evening in New Orleans.  He was defrocked by the Assemblies of God, reports The Christian Post. The Pentecostal preacher died on July 1st at the age of 90 after suffering a cardiac arrest recently. In the announcement from his official Facebook page on Tuesday, his family wrote, “Today, our hearts are heavy as we share that Brother Swaggart has finished his earthly race and entered into the presence of His Savior, Jesus Christ.” Swaggart's popularity peaked in the mid-1980s, reaching millions of households with his weekly telecasts. In his confession, the televangelist alluded to Micah 7:19. It says, “You [God] will again have compassion on us;   You will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.” Man's gold necklace cross deflected bullet And finally, a young man in Florida is thanking God for saving his life. Last month, 20-year-old Aiden Perry was shot in the chest, by accident, while visiting a friend's apartment.  The gun was only 10 feet away from him. The incident could have been much worse if it weren't for the gold cross necklace he was wearing. The necklace deflected the bullet from hitting major organs in his chest. Dr. Khafra Henry, who performed the surgery, explained to WESH-TV how Aiden's golden cross necklace was a blessing. HENRY:  “Of its metallic component, it actually shielded a lot of the force of the bullet, so the bullet ricocheted off the necklace and entered his chest wall. However, it was just in his fat tissues because it slowed down the trajectory of the bullet.” Dr. Henry noted what might have happened had Aiden not been wearing his golden cross. HENRY: “It could have been way worse, entering his chest wall itself, into the pleural space, which is the airspace around the lung, between the bones, and injuring his lung itself, or his heart.” Aiden said, “It's just kind of a reminder now – to never stop believing. Keep believing and God's definitely real.” In his comments to WESH-TV, he expressed gratitude to God. PERRY: “I think God played a big role in this. I think He's the reason I'm still here today.” In Matthew 10:29-31, Jesus asked, “Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, July 3rd, 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.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

If you were on trial for being a Christian, what would you say? How would you defend yourself? In Acts chapter twenty-two, the Apostle Paul appears before the Jewish Supreme Court, also known as the Sanhedrin. But rather than defend himself, he defends the Gospel of Jesus Christ. And he does it, surprisingly enough, with a cheerful attitude. Stay with us now as Ron moves ahead in his series, “Paul: Surprised by Grace.”  

On this episode of Rightly Dividing, the book of Acts, or The Acts of the Apostles, shows us the life and ministry of the apostles of Jesus Christ from the gospels, including one who is “born out of due time”, the apostle Paul. But before he was an apostle of the Lord, Saul was a fearsome type of Antichrist, and we will look at that as well. Think you're called to the ministry? You better think again, the book of Acts shows you what the ministry is, and you may not like it much. Join us as we study the entire book of the Acts of the Apostles, verse by verse and chapter by chapter.TONIGHT'S STUDY: In Acts 21, the bands of opposition begin to tighten around the apostle Paul as Agabus prophecies over him revealing what's going to happen to him at Jerusalem. Paul's 4th quarter has begun, and we have a front row seat to all of it. In Acts 22, Paul will begin a vigorous defense of his ministry that he received from the Lord Jesus Christ back in Acts 9.

Kyle Kauffman | Jun 29 2025 The Poet C.T. Studd once famously said, “Only one life,' twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last.” No one sets out to waste their lives. And yet there are all sorts of ways we can end up wasting our them. We all want to spend our lives well. But sometimes we never even slow down to ask, What does a life well spent look like? In Acts 20, we get Paul's farewell speech to leaders of the Ephesian church. As we listen in to these passionate last words of Paul to this small group of men, we get a glimpse of what a life spent well looks like. We see what the greatest passion of Paul's life was and how that got worked out into the ways he lived. And we find direction for what it means to spend our lives well rather than wasting them.

Few narratives in the Bible describe an event as impactful as the coming of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2. At Pentecost we see the birth of the church, the reversal of the divisions of Babel (Gen 11), the breaking down of ethnic and linguistic barriers, the ingathering of thousands to faith in Jesus, the radical generosity of the early believers, and a foretaste of all the church is called to be through the ages. Bring a friend and join us this Sunday as we invite the Spirit's filling to direct and empower our life as the church in our city and our world.- Series Description -Among the most compelling stories in the Bible are several contained in the Book of Acts, written by the humble and gentle physician, Luke. In Acts, Luke tells the story of the birth and expansion of the church in the early decades following the Lord's death, resurrection, and ascension. He tells the story of the coming and work of the Holy Spirit, the ministry of the Apostles Peter and Paul, and of other early saints. He tells the story of early opposition to the faith, of the first martyrs, and of the courage of early Christians in the face of resistance and even death. At the beginning of the book, the Christian community is limited to Jewish believers mostly in and around Jerusalem; by the end of the book, the church is growing and expanding among Jewish and Gentile communities throughout the Mediterranean world and beyond. Come out for this 10 week series and join us in living out in our own day and time what it is to be the church together.

In Acts chapter one, Jesus told His followers they would receive the power of the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses. They did indeed receive power, and that power to be a witness is not only essential but available still today. We've just begun a new series in Acts, and pastor Al will share the second half of his introductory message today. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1425/29

The early church wasn't just a crowd of believers—it was a spiritual family, shaped by the message of Jesus. In Acts 2, we see a community marked by unity in purpose and diversity in background, all centered on Christ. We explore how Jesus redefines what family means, and how the beauty and power of spiritual family isn't something we manufacture—it's something God creates when we respond to His message.

In Acts 12:1–19, the church faced a crisis when Peter was imprisoned, but their problems became an invitation to fervent prayer. God responded by giving Peter peace in the middle of danger and providentially sending an angel to deliver him. Pastor John uses this story to encourage us to share answered prayers as a testimony to God's faithfulness. Our problems are invitations to prayerPrayers bring God's peace and providenceShare answered prayer Life Group Discussion:What are some situations in your life right now that could become opportunities to lean into prayer rather than worry?In what ways can consistent prayer reshape our perspective on difficult circumstances?Why is it important to share when God answers prayer, even in small ways?

In Acts 12:1–19, the church faced a crisis when Peter was imprisoned, but their problems became an invitation to fervent prayer. God responded by giving Peter peace in the middle of danger and providentially sending an angel to deliver him. Pastor John uses this story to encourage us to share answered prayers as a testimony to God's faithfulness. Our problems are invitations to prayerPrayers bring God's peace and providenceShare answered prayer Life Group Discussion:What are some situations in your life right now that could become opportunities to lean into prayer rather than worry?In what ways can consistent prayer reshape our perspective on difficult circumstances?Why is it important to share when God answers prayer, even in small ways?

In Acts 16, we saw how Paul and Silas worshipped their way through the darkest of nights. Their situation was hopeless by all accounts, but they didn't wait for a victory to start worshipping. They worshipped before they saw anything change. And when they did, the ground shook, chains broke, and lives were changed.Some of us are in a midnight moment right now, and this week's message was a reminder that midnight praise still works. It may not feel like the time to lift your hands, but those might be the moments that matter most. God loves your worship when it's costly. When it's not convenient. When you choose it anyway.We unpacked all of this in this week's message called “Worship at Night.”Join us for service online or in person every Sunday at 8am, 9:30am, 11am, & 12:30pm (PST).If you want to share how God is moving in your life through this ministry, please let us know at info@captivatesd.com!Decided To Follow Jesus? Sign up to receive a copy of our “I Have Decided” booklets - https://shorturl.at/GymIkGet plugged in!Next Steps - captivatesd.com/next-stepsVisit - captivatesd.com/visitCommunities - captivatesd.com/communitiesIf you would like to support Captivate financially you can give online through our website by clicking here captivatesd.com/giving Need prayer? Please let us know! - https://captivatesd.churchcenter.com/people/forms/597023For more information about Captivate Church, visit captivatesd.com or follow us on our social media platforms below.Instagram - Instagram.com/captivatechurchsdFacebook - facebook.com/captivatesdWatch More Messages: youtube.com/@CaptivateChurch/videos

In this first week of the “Being the Church” series, Andy Saperstein considers what it means to bear witness to our faith in the world among friends and family, neighbors, strangers and enemies alike. In the early verses of Acts, Jesus declares that once the Spirit has fallen on the church, we will be his witnesses both near and far, from our own homes to the ends of the earth, as we fulfill our identity and calling as the people of God. To have a genuine encounter with Jesus and to be filled with the Holy Spirit qualifies us to be his witnesses; listen to this week's talk to consider what that might look like in your own life.- Series Description -Among the most compelling stories in the Bible is contained in the Book of Acts, written by the humble and gentle physician, Luke. In Acts, Luke tells the story of the birth and expansion of the church in the early decades following the Lord's death, resurrection, and ascension. He tells the story of the coming and work of the Holy Spirit, the ministry of the Apostles Peter and Paul, and of other early saints. He tells the story of early opposition to the faith, of the first martyrs, and of the courage of early Christians in the face of resistance and even death. At the beginning of the book, the Christian community is limited to Jewish believers mostly in and around Jerusalem; by the end of the book, the church is growing and expanding among Jewish and Gentile communities throughout the Mediterranean world and beyond. Come out for this 8-week series, “Being the Church,” bring a friend, and join us in living out in our own day and time what it is to be the church together.

Joel Wood June 22 2025In a world filled with confusion, brokenness, and spiritual darkness, how does real transformation happen? In Acts 18–19, the Apostle Paul enters two very different and very diffit cities — Corinth, known for its global commerce, rampant immorality and cultural corruption, and Ephesus, a hub of spiritual idolatry, magic, and political power. What happens next is nothing short of miraculous: people come to faith, lives are changed, and communities are impacted — not through flashy programs or celebrity preachers, but through the simple, powerful, personal method of discipleship. Walking with people. Teaching truth. Clarifying faith, and boldly speaking the Gospel in the power of the Holy Spirit. No matter who you are or what you do, God has placed you where you are for a reason. And as you walk faithfully with Jesus, He will use you to help others do the same and be a part of transforming lives and communities.

In Acts, as the good news spreads and produces people who live differently, it causes tension in Jerusalem. One of the key leaders of this new church, a man named Stephen, gives a speech that really kicks the hornets nest, and it gets him killed. In this message, Pastor Julie examines this speech and the story that surrounds it. The speech goes through the history of the people of Israel and how old, sinful patterns continue to resurface, especially in how the people in his day treated Jesus and now the news of God's kingdom. Tensions and resistance still exist today. But God works in the midst of them, and he sometimes even uses it as an important way the good news spreads, and in this passage there is encouragement that Jesus stands by us even in the midst of our own challenges to live and preach the good news.

In Acts 16, we see the gospel break through in unexpected places—a quiet riverside, a spiritual showdown, and even a prison cell. Evangelism today may look different, but it's just as powerful when we reflect Jesus in everyday moments.

What do the sermons in Acts reveal about the early Church’s belief in the Resurrection? Where was Tabitha before her resurrection in Acts 9:40? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, we explore deep theological questions about Christ's human nature during His death, how to explain Original Sin to students, and what good—if any—can come from eternal suffering in Hell. We also address how to explain the mystery of the Trinity to someone from a Latter-day Saints background. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:06 – Do the sermons in the Book of Acts offer early references to the Resurrection similar to the creedal formulations in Corinthians? 12:26 – In Acts 9:40, where was Tabitha before her resurrection? Could it have been Limbo, Purgatory, or another state? 17:12 – During the time Christ was dead, was His human nature still united to the Second Person of the Trinity? If so, how is that explained? 22:59 – What are effective ways to explain Original Sin to students who struggle to understand the concept? 37:12 – If God allows suffering to bring about some good, what possible good can come from the eternal suffering of souls in Hell? 45:55 – How can the doctrine of the Trinity be explained to someone from the Latter-day Saints tradition who wants to understand it?

In Acts 9, we read about the radical transformation of Paul after his encounter with Jesus. He goes from being a ruthless persecutor of early Church to being persecuted for declaring that Jesus is the resurrected Son of God. What we learn through Paul's transformation is that we can think we are following God's will but be completely missing what he is actually doing. We need to see the world with His eyes. We can only gain this new way of seeing the world through a personal encounter with the gracious love and presence Jesus.

By Mary Lindow Hello to all of you who are listening via podcast today or who are reading this message! I just finished being a part of our weekly prayer gathering this evening, and I have to tell you, the presence of the Father was so absolutely strong and evident in our time together! I am literally to the point that I anticipate all day long on Thursday evenings, getting together with the group that we pray with.    We have been blessed week after week, month after month with the sweet and strong presence of God as we intercede for our nation, for the globe, and for so many other things that the Lord lays on our hearts to pray about.   I HAVE BEEN WORKING ON THE PODCAST THAT I HAD TALKED ABOUT EARLIER. I am still trying to get it to compile and come together and I know that if I rush this, I will not share it in the light of how the Lord wants it to be presented properly.   BUT, I HAVE BEEN HAVING ANOTHER MESSAGE AND WORD FROM THE LORD STIRRING DEEP WITHIN MY SPIRIT, AND SO THAT IS WHAT I'M GOING TO SHARE WITH YOU TODAY. Hearing God accurately in the mess and chaos that the world is in right now, is of huge importance!  May the Lord continue to use you all to proclaim and speak truth, no matter what the cost. It is so worth being called a servant of the Lord during hard and challenging times.   TODAY, I'M GOING TO TALK WITH YOU ABOUT WHAT IT MEANS TO BE IN A PLACE OF SAFETY, A PLACE, OR A “HAVEN” OF BEING SHELTERED BY THE LORD. Especially during very, very difficult and hard times. I'll share how to discern and hear His voice in the chaos of the nonstop noise the dark world bombards us all with. It's ratcheted up to crazy levels, and shouts loudly to attempt to distract us from discerning the times, and hopes to discourage us and knock us off balance with fear, and then rob our peace.   IT'S OBVIOUS THAT THE EARTH IS IN ONE MASSIVE UPHEAVAL, AND NO MATTER WHERE YOU TURN RIGHT NOW, THE CRISES CONTINUE TO MOUNT AND BOIL! And so, people begin to put aside spending time in the word of God, and certainly in his presence, to spend time with the love of the Internet and scrolling through their telephones through social network information and high charged doomsday podcasts and videos. This can absolutely create stress and anxiety, and it also creates a terrible problem with comparing ourselves to other people and where we are at in life.   PRAYER IS NOT A BORING HARD THING WHEN YOU REALIZE  THAT YOU ARE FACE-TO-FACE, OR LITERALLY,  “PRESENCE TO PRESENCE” WITH THE FATHER.   A tremendous man who walked daily in the Presence of God, Andrew Murray, said in a book that he wrote,  “It's one of the terrible marks of the diseased state of the Christian life in these days that there are so many that are content, and remain passive and content, without the distinct occasion of having experienced answered prayer. They pray daily, but know very little of direct, definite answers to prayer as the rule of their daily life.”    Psalm Thirty verse four says, “I sought the Lord and he answered me.”   We must understand that it's the Father's will that WE SEEK HIM OUT to daily have dialogue with his will, and it's his will to have his children to listen to him and then, he listens to his children and agrees to their requests. It's his will that we should come to him day by day, with specific requests, and he will every day, do for us great and wonderful things! What we ask sometimes might be a case where the specific answer is that he refuses our request, but our Father lets us know when and why he can't give us what we request. It's like his Son Jesus, and so we will withdraw our petition or our request.   When did Jesus do that? Jesus said in the Garden of Gethsemane, “If this cup could pass from me, but not my will, but your will be done.”  He said this to the Father.   WHETHER OUR REQUEST IS ACCORDING TO GOD'S WILL OR NOT, GOD WILL BY HIS WORD AND BY HIS SPIRIT, TEACH THOSE OF US WHO ARE TEACHABLE, and he will give us time to withdraw our requests if they're not according to God‘s mind or purposes.   LET'S PRESS IN. LET'S JUST STAND FIRM UNTIL THE ANSWER COMES! PRAYER IS GIVEN TO US TO OBTAIN AN ANSWER! It's in prayer and its answer, that the exchange of love between the Father and we his children takes place.   MY QUESTION IS, “ARE YOUR  PRAYERS BEING ANSWERED?” During the last hours of the age that we're in, there will be two opposing groups or alliances in the world.    The First group are those whose hearts are absolutely overwrought with bitterness, resentment and hatred.   The Second group is those whose love has actually increased, and are experiencing the power of the Kingdom of God, now!   Jesus told us about this in Matthew in chapter 4:10-13. He said, “At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people.  Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” And then in Matthew 24:14 he added, “This gospel (good news) of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world for a witness to all the nations and then the end shall come.”   SO, THE BIG QUESTION IS... ...“WHAT IS THIS GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM?”  It's the whole truth Jesus came to bring, not only that part that saves us from our sins, but also that part which creates us in his image! It's the full message, the full good news with all its requirements and all of its rewards!  It's is the full price for the full power! It's the most glorious pearl that a person can possess. The presence of God in His glory, revealed, made known within and among us!   IF WE WANT TO GAIN THIS GREAT LOVE, WE WILL CONTINUALLY BE FORCED TO MAKE CHOICES TOWARD MERCY, OR, TOWARD UNFORGIVENESS, and if we don't walk in a forgiving attitude, we will certainly become prey to an embittered spirit, if it's in fact, God‘s plan to allow wickedness and holiness at the same time,  so they grow to full maturity.   We must guard our hearts ahead of time from reacting in bitterness or unforgiveness because the increasing anarchy will certainly give us occasions to lose love, with the attempt to make us hard so we can survive in this cruel world.   WE OFTEN WITHDRAW FROM THE GENUINENESS OF PURE LOVE! We can't choose cautious, selective love, and also walk in the power of God's kingdom, my friends! To defy pain, we sometimes unconsciously shut down our love, because after all, its love that makes us vulnerable.   GOD WANTS US TO BE A PEOPLE WHOSE LOVE IS GROWING HOT, NOT COLD. Jesus didn't say that we had to trust our enemies, but he did say that we had to love them anyhow. You might be asking why!  One reason God allows difficulties is to test us! ( I know! I know! We don't want to hear that! ) He wants to see if our Christianity is just an intellectual pursuit or just thoughts and feelings of the mind, or if following him is truly the highest passion of our hearts. So, he tells us in Matthew 5:44, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Wow!    SOME OF YOU HAVE GONE THROUGH REJECTION AND BETRAYAL MOST LIKELY. The Lord says to you today, “You did not fail, you have continued to love, and although you went through great pain, yet you have forgiven, those who have hurt you.”  My friends you have passed the test.   THERE ARE HOWEVER, SOME OF YOU LISTENING OR READING THAT STILL HAVE CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS IN YOUR LIVES THAT YOU HAVE NOT FORGIVEN, AND WHOM YOU DO NOT LOVE.  Maybe you're right, they don't deserve your forgiveness, but what you don't realize is the consequence of your anger. You see, as long as we refuse to forgive, a part of this is trapped in the past where you will always be reminded of your pain, and until we forgive, we will not be fully released to go on with our life. Even the time of year in which you were hurt will bring depression.   THERE'S ONLY ONE WAY WE CAN HAVE TRUE FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD AND THAT IS IN THE HERE AND NOW, RIGHT NOW, LIVING IN THE PRESENT. But if our mind is in conflict with others, we're neither here nor in the present. When we live in the past, we are cut off from God! What people did to us to hurt us is over! It's done; it doesn't have any real existence or life of its own, except in your mind.   SO THERE WITHIN US, THE DEED CONTINUES TO LIVE AND FESTER AND AS LONG AS IT LIVES, WE'RE STILL BEING HURT BY IT. The person or the people who wounded you may have long since died. They can't be blamed because it's us who keeps our wounds alive. Not only is the quality of our spiritual life affected, but often our physical health pays a price as well!   As long as we keep holding onto the burden of what someone has done to us, every time we think about it or think about that person, the stomach acids start to churn and anxiety increases, and then of course our body is continually put under stress.   If we don't forgive those who have hurt us, we lose a measure of our capacity to love and whether they deserve forgiveness or not, we deserve a better life! God wants to give you a better life but you can't enjoy abundant life and carry unforgiveness, because we're shackled to something that was hurting us. Did you know that our own unforgiveness tortures us?   SO HOW DO YOU GET OUT OF THAT PRISON?  HOW DO YOU FIND THE PROTECTION OF GOD FOR YOUR SOUL?    Well, God calls us to forgive. You have to see the hands of God reaching to you in the midst of your pain. He wants to redeem that conflict using that specific crisis or hardship to develop and perfect character in you. It will be this experience that he will use to make you like Jesus. To become like Jesus is to dwell, to live, in the place of rest and the safety of God. Every time we say, “Father, I choose to love. I choose to forgive. I choose to forget and not hold it against this person”, we are taking on the nature of Jesus. Friends, rejoice that Jesus is taking over your heart. You are entering into the strong, safe haven of God's shelter.   I DO MANY THINGS THAT THE LORD HAS ASSIGNED ME TO DO IN LIFE NOT ONLY AS A MINISTER, BUT ALSO AS A PASTORAL COUNSELOR. I also host and facilitate a group called “The international Prophetic Women's Mentoring Council.” This is a group of women from all walks of life several cultural groups and different backgrounds. We meet through zoom video sessions and individually. The thing that is “the glue that bonds us” is the fact that each of us have been called into ministry, and each of these women flows in a different expression of the prophetic gift. This past week we had a zoom session and our conversation and subject matter was regarding, the power of intercession and what it takes to approach the Face of God, in a right attitude.   One of the things that stood out so strongly in our time of dialogue and accountability to one another was the fact that in order to hear clearly from the Spirit of God, we need to have the inward witness, or the “inside part of us that communicates with God”, clearly in a place of submission and humility before him, and, that we first come into a place where we have asked the Lord to cleanse us. That means cleanse our hearts before we try to come to Him in prayer.   MANY PEOPLE DON'T KNOW HOW TO HEAR THE VOICE OF GOD. They seek it through quick daily devotionals, or they seek the voice of God through other people every day, instead of seeking the Lord himself. The scripture tells us clearly in John 10:4-5, “His sheep know his voice, and strange voices, they will not follow.”   SO WHAT ARE THE STRANGE VOICES? The voices from the external world that are constantly pumping us full of data, fear, rhetoric and forced compliance to social conditioning. If we choose to listen to the voice of strangers, then we move further away from being sheep in the pasture of the Lord.   SO HOW DO WE KNOW HIS VOICE? How do we discern that it's him? The number one thing, is that God always speaks life. He always speaks truth. And when God speaks, it brings peace, even in the midst of hard difficulties or hard decisions. An absolute solid peace comes and says, “This is the way, and this is what you have to do!” Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, "This is the way you should go,” whether to the right or to the left. That's Isaiah 30:21.   THE HOLY SPIRIT LIVES IN YOU. God absolutely wants to direct your life through your decision-making. The Holy Spirit guides us in our spirits (not through our physical body). The Number One way The Holy Spirit leads and guides us is through what the Bible calls, the “Inward Witness.” Proverbs 3:6 says,  “Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.”   WHAT IS AN INNER OR INWARD WITNESS? An inner witness is an impression, or a sense or perception on the inside of you. Romans 8:16 tells us, “For his Spirit joins with our spirit, to affirm, to confirm, that we are God's children.” Jeremiah 7:23-24 says this to us,  “But this is what I commanded them, saying, ‘Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you will be My people; and you shall walk entirely in the way which I command you, so that it may go well for you.'  Yet, they did not obey or incline their ear, but walked by their own advice and in the stubbornness of their evil hearts, and they went backward and not forward.   AS KINGDOM PEOPLE, WE'RE NOT LED BY OUR SENSES. We're not led by our ears or our eyes. We're led by our spirit. When we talk about hearing God, we're not talking about hearing God with our physical ears. We're talking about hearing Him in our spirit.  Here's a great example:  The Apostle Paul had been arrested and he was headed to his trial. Before he took the journey he sensed something in his spirit. He wasn't the captain of the ship, but he sensed something in his spirit.  In Acts 27:10, Apostle Paul said, "Men, I perceive we're going to face a disaster and heavy losses on this voyage. This disaster will cause damage to the cargo and the ship, and it will affect our lives." It wasn't long before the ship hit a cyclone, but an angel appeared and guaranteed Paul that everyone would make it, and they did! What was it that what Paul said in the beginning? “I perceive".   This is what we're looking at right now. We're talking about being led by the Spirit of God, no matter what circumstance or difficulty we might encounter.   BEING A PERSON WHO IS CALLED TO A PROPHETIC MINISTRY, I AM CLEARLY AWARE OF THE FACT THAT 90% OF WHAT I DO, ALSO COMES FROM TEACHING PEOPLE FROM THE WORD OF GOD REGARDING HOW TO  “HEAR” THE VOICE OF GOD.   My job is not to be a telephone for people to connect to God with, nor simply through prophesying. This is not going to change lives long term if the word of God is not taught and also if people don't act on it and obey it.   I HAVE HAD SOME STRANGE ENCOUNTERS WITH PEOPLE WHO THINK THAT I HAVE SOME KIND OF HOTLINE OR SATELLITE CONNECTION TO GOD TO HELP THEM GET ANSWERS. They need something or want to hear what the Lord has for them by asking me for a prophetic word. My friends this is not how the prophetic word of knowledge or word of wisdom works!  I had a lady when we were Pastoring a local fellowship come up to me after the service and she asked me if I would please, “do whatever I do, do that thing that I do”, and see if God would show me where she had put her wedding ring. She had lost it. I remember feeling very uncomfortable and a cold chill went through my body! My thought process was, “this woman wants me to be like a palm reader, or a magic eight ball! She wants me to use divination to find her wedding ring!“ Very kindly but firmly I told the woman, “You can ask the Lord to show you where it is yourself, or just simply go on looking for it. Pray that the Lord would lead you to it, but to ask me to ask the Holy Spirit to show me where it is, is basically trying to use another voice to speak to God for you when you can speak on your own to him.”   THERE ARE TIMES, WHEN GOD WILL SPEAK A WORD, AND IT IS DONE THROUGH A PROPHETIC UTTERANCE, and it gives us a word of knowledge about something or a word of wisdom about a specific event where we need to have insight, but it will always confirm with the Spirit of God what he has already put down on the inside of us that we can't seem to quite untangle, until the prophetic word comes and brings a clarity to it.   SOMETIMES THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL HAVE SOMEONE BRING A PROPHETIC WORD THAT COMES IN THE FORM OF LOVING CORRECTION, BUT IT IS STILL CORRECTION, AND PEOPLE GET ANGRY AND SHOUT, “HOW DARE YOU JUDGE ME! Who are you to judge me?!”   Of course what this is a reaction to being caught out in bad behavior or hidden sin, and the Lord gently, lovingly, brings a word of warning.   ALL OF US KNOW WHEN WE SLIP AWAY FROM SPENDING TIME IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD. We know when we slack off from reading the scripture and from meditating on it, letting the Holy Spirit speak through the word to us. This is where the areas of bitterness and lack of purity in our walk with the Lord get all tangled up.   FRIENDS.  ASK THE HOLY SPIRIT TO TEACH YOU HOW TO BE LED BY HIM. (By the way, you might need a refreshing of your commitment to only follow his voice.) You don't need a prophet to hear from God for you, or have a constant prophetic word to make decisions. Simply say these words. “Holy Spirit, teach me how to be led by you.” Then, before you make any major decisions, acknowledge God. Say, “God, this is what the situation is,  >  insert your situation  

Texts:  Genesis 11; Acts 2:1-11, 37-39   Man's Arrogant Defiance to God's Reign (Gen. 11:1-4) In Babel, there was unity without obedience to God and ambition without submission to God. In Babel, man's goal was self-exaltation, not God's glory.   God's Authoritative Response to Man's Pride (Gen. 11:5-9) God condescended to earth to see the “big” tower that man had constructed. God confused their language and scattered them throughout the earth.   God's All-Encompassing Blessing to the Nations (Gen. 11:10-32; Acts 2:1-11, 37-39) In this list of Shem's descendants, we see God's unfolding promise to bless the nations through Abraham's lineage. Despite Sarai's barrenness, God's plan to bless the nations would not be thwarted. In Acts 2, we see God's plan to bless the nations in the proclamation of the Gospel in everyone's language.

Pastor Lawson Perdue shares how the Holy Spirit changes lives! In Acts 2, God poured out His Spirit, and people spoke in tongues and felt great joy. Lawson tells how […] The post Live Empowered by the Holy Spirit's Outpouring – Lawson Perdue appeared first on Charis Christian Center.

Brandon Fisher | Jun 15 2025How can we seek to be effective in reaching a 21st century world? On a more manageable level, how can we seek to be effective in simply reaching our neighbors, friends, and family members who don't know Jesus? In Acts 17 we get a glimpse into how the apostle Paul sought to both know and proclaim the scriptures and know and understand the audience he was speaking to. While it may be unlikely that any of us will ever stand in front of a group of philosophers and skeptics to deliver a sermon, we can learn valuable insights into how we can grow in our own effectiveness and ability to communicate the gospel to others through what we discover in Acts 17.

Join Pastor Robert Schuller for this online service every Sunday at 8am PT.  Today we read In Acts 3- Peter heals a man with paralysis and shares with us how we be refreshed.  The same can happen for you.  

Sunday June 8th, 2025: Isaiah 62 calls us to be builder sons, those that restore paths and gates. In Acts 12, Peter walks through prison doors that open on their own, then reaches a door that requires a knock. Both are grace. Some doors swing wide open with no effort. Others demand persistence. Sons know the difference and respond accordingly. The beauty is, even our knocking and persistence is not from ourselves, but is a withdraw on deposited grace and empowerment through Holy Spirit. You have all you need to see every door intended to open, be opened.

What is it that a church does when it meets together? In Acts 2, the church commits itself to teaching, fellowship, communion, and prayer. These have often been called the four marks of the church. We look at the importance of these marks and how they shape who we are as a church.

In Acts 2:42-47, the early church demonstrated a profound commitment to authentic community, as believers devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, and sharing meals together. Their unity and generosity were powerful reflections of God's Kingdom, as they gave selflessly, meeting each other's needs. This passage reveals that true community demands vulnerability, sacrificial love, and a willingness to share our lives with others, challenging the individualism that often dominates our culture. The early church's example calls us to embrace deep, committed fellowship, reflecting God's heart through genuine, life-on-life relationships.