Podcasts about in genesis

Welcome to Day 2656 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – “Once and Future Kings” – Supernatural Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2656 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2656 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Today, we begin a new focus on this 3rd of 16 segments of our Theology Thursday lessons. I will read through the book Supernatural, written by Hebrew Bible scholar, professor, and mentor, the late Dr. Michael S. Heiser. Supernatural is a condensed version of his comprehensive book ‘The Unseen Realm.' If these readings pique your interest, I would recommend that you read ‘The Unseen Realm.' Today, we will read through chapter two: ‘Once and Future Kings.' We've had a brief introduction to God's heavenly council—his unseen family and task force. There's a lot more to all that—we need to look, especially, at how major players like Jesus and Satan fit into the picture. But before we return to what goes on in the unseen world, we need to think in a fresh way about ourselves. God's rule in the unseen spiritual world through his council is a template for his rule on earth—what theologians call the kingdom of God. All of that began in Genesis, in the garden of Eden. Eden—God's Home Office What's the first thing you think of when you hear “garden of Eden”? Most people I've talked to think of Adam and Eve. Eden was their home. That's where God put them (Gen. 2:15–25). But Eden was also God's home. Ezekiel refers to Eden as “the garden of God” (Ezek. 28:13; 31:8–9). No surprise, really. What might be surprising is that, right after calling Eden “the garden of God,” Ezekiel calls it “the holy mountain of God” (v. 28:14). In many ancient religions, luxurious gardens and inaccessible mountains were considered the home of the gods. The Bible uses both descriptions for Eden. Eden was God's home and, therefore, where he conducted business. It was his headquarters, or home office. And where God is, his council is with him. God's Imagers One of the most important verses in the Bible tips us off that both God and his council were in Eden. In Genesis 1:26 God says, “Let us make humankind in our image” (leb, emphasis added). God announces his intention to a group. Who's he talking to? His heavenly host—his council. He's not talking to the other members of the Trinity, because God can't know something they don't! And here the group he's addressing learns what God has decided to do. The announcement is easy to understand. It would be like me saying to some friends, “Let's get pizza!” Let's do this! Clear enough. But there's something else we don't want to miss. God actually doesn't include the group in bringing about his decision. Unlike other divine council sessions we've seen, the members of God's council don't participate in this decision. When humankind is created in the next verse (Gen. 1:27), God is the only one creating. The creation of humanity is something God handled himself. Going back to my pizza analogy, if I followed my announcement by driving everyone to the pizza place and insisted on paying, I would be the one doing all the work. That's what we see going on here. It makes sense that God would be the only one creating humans. The divine beings of his council don't have that kind of...

"Take your son, your only son...and offer him." In Genesis 22, we walk with Abraham and Isaac and explore what it means to survive spiritual trauma, process silence, and believe again.

Tuesday, 17 June 2025   He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward. And he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward. Matthew 10:41   “The ‘receiving a prophet' in a prophet's name, a prophet's reward he will receive. And the ‘receiving a righteous' in a righteous' name, a righteous' reward he will receive” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus said, “The ‘receiving you,' Me receives. And the ‘Me receiving,' he receives the ‘having sent Me.'” In a similar manner, He now steps down the level of reception, saying, “The ‘receiving a prophet' in a prophet's name, a prophet's reward he will receive.”   This is obviously referring to a true prophet of the Lord. Although the reciprocal could still hold true. Someone receiving a false prophet, if taken in and accepting of his message, will eventually receive the false prophet's same fate. But that is not the intent here.   Of the prophet, in the Old Testament, he was the highest form of believer in God, having a word issued from God through Him. Although not necessarily an ambassador, he is one who speaks the word of the Lord. In Genesis 20:7, Abraham is specifically said to be a prophet of God. Moses notes he is a prophet in Deuteronomy 18:18.   In receiving such a person, there is an acknowledgment that what the prophet receives, the person will also receive. Although Jesus is probably referring to the reception of rewards in the next life, it is a truth that accompanied some in their earthly lives.   In 1 Kings 17, the widow of Zarephath received Elijah. In turn, she received a supply of food during the drought that consumed the land. In Jeremiah 39, Ebed-Melech tended to Jeremiah the prophet, and the Lord promised to deliver him during the terrible siege upon the city.   Likewise, in Jeremiah 45, Baruch the scribe was given words of assurance from the Lord for his faithfulness to the word of the Lord through Jeremiah. As for a later prophet's reward, meaning at the resurrection, one is recorded in Daniel 12 –   “But you, go your way till the end; for you shall rest, and will arise to your inheritance at the end of the days.” Daniel 12:13   Based on Jesus' words, it can be assumed that those who are saved and raised at the resurrection, and who received Daniel, would receive a similar inheritance. Next, Jesus says, “And the ‘receiving a righteous' in a righteous' name, a righteous' reward he will receive.”   This is another step down the ladder, going from the prophet to the righteous. The categories are set, just as they are in the list given by Paul in 1 Corinthians 12:28. This demonstrates the wisdom of God in apportioning out His gifts and His grace in various ways.   As for the righteous, the Bible, even during the times of the law, identifies them as those who are of faith. This is made explicit in Hebrews 11, where those of faith are spoken of as righteous. Rahab the harlot received the spies and received her reward because of that. As in the prophet, it can be assumed that this truth goes beyond this life, though.   Those who receive the righteous, holding to their standard themselves, will receive the resurrection of the righteous and what it entails. Jesus is making a point about rewards. This thought will continue in the next verse.   Life application: In Matthew 11:11, Jesus says –   “Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”   One reason for Jesus' word is certainly that a person who has entered the kingdom of heaven, meaning that which is promised through the Messiah, has received all of what has been spoken of since the beginning, as outlined in the received word.   In receiving the word that speaks of God's plan, we have received the prophet through whom that word came. In receiving the words of the writings of the gospels, we have received those who authored those books. And in receiving the words of the apostles as written in the epistles, we have received those apostles who penned them.   But people receive the words at various levels of faith. There are those who say they believe Paul was an apostle, but they don't accept everything he says. For example, they may attend a church with a female pastor, something Paul's writings forbid.   This will not affect their salvation (assuming they are truly saved), but it will affect their rewards. They have not truly received Paul in the fullest sense. The judgment seat of Christ is something that lies ahead for all believers. Our eternal rewards and losses will be based on our faith and our deeds done in faith.   This must be inclusive of how we receive and apply the word of God to our lives. What level of understanding are you willing to attain concerning God's word? The church you select, the Bible studies you attend, the manner in which you accept the doctrines contained within the word, etc., are certainly all a part of how God is evaluating you.   Many in the world have never had a copy of the Bible. They lived by faith but without a fuller understanding of the word. Many today hunger for a copy of the word in their own language, waiting years to receive a translation to hold and cherish.   In Western countries, we have innumerable translations available at our fingertips. And yet, who among those who believe has read even a single translation from beginning to end?   The more you are willing to receive, the greater will be the return on your investment of time, doctrine, and closer fellowship. Be sure to make the word an integral and intimate part of your life.   Heavenly Father, help us to think clearly about how we tend to Your word. It is our connection to understanding You and what You have done in the stream of human existence, culminating in the coming of Christ Jesus. How can we ignore such a gift? May it not be so in our lives. Amen.  

In Genesis 40, Joseph is joined in prison by two royal servants who were being punished by Pharaoh. As we watch Joseph interact with these men and the results that follow, what is the right way to persevere in a painful situation?  How should you respond when you're waiting and uncertain? (The Life of Joseph: Pain and Purpose, part 6)

WEEK 7: HIS PLANS ARE PERFECTJoseph: In God's HandsBeholding the Perfect Sovereignty of GodAs the brothers leave Egypt, Joseph sets his trap in motion. He fills their bags with grain and secretly returns their payment, then hides his silver cup in Benjamin's sack. When Joseph's servants catch up with them, the cup is quickly discovered, and fear grips the brothers. However, as Judah pleads with Joseph, the Lord reveals an astonishing transformation, orchestrated through His own meticulous plan: namely the grief for their past sins, and the potential consequences now has finally led the brothers into genuine repentance.In Genesis 44, Pastor Craig unpacks how God's discipline is never aimless. Even in confrontation, God's goal is restoration. As Judah steps forward to offer his own life for Benjamin's, we catch a glimpse of gospel mercy in action—one brother standing in for another. What once was a dysfunctional, jealous family now begins to look like a people softened by grief, humbled by mercy, and finally ready to walk in unity.Key Takeaways:God uses disruption to produce transformation.Genuine repentance often starts with personal crisis.True leadership begins when we offer ourselves for others.God's perfect plans can bring painful pasts into redemptive light.What the enemy meant for harm, God uses to reshape hearts.Related Scriptures:Genesis 44Romans 8:28James 1:2–4Hebrews 12:6–11If you're facing conflict, guilt, or the fallout of old mistakes—this message is for you. God's plan is always for your transformation, not your destruction.Need prayer? Reach out at bannockburnchurch.com/prayer#Joseph #Genesis44 #GodsPlan #Repentance #Mercy #GospelForeshadowing #JudahAndJoseph #BibleTeaching #SpiritualGrowth #SermonPodcast #BannockburnChurch #TrustGodsPlan #ChristianLiving

In Genesis 12, God started His redemption plan for the world with one man, Abraham, and his family.Since then, the family unit has been the primary means through which God has advanced His purposes on Earth. Even today, every metric of social health across the world can be tied to the strength (or weaknesses) of a society's families.That is why we say Family is How We Fight.

In Genesis 28, as Jacob left home for fear of his life, God encountered him at Bethel. There, God assured Jacob that he was still his God, despite his sin, and would bring him back. Jacob set up a stone of remembrance there to remember and recall God's faithfulness.  On Pentecost, God, the Holy Spirit, came to the disciples just as Jesus had promised. On this festival day, we commemorate the coming of the Holy Spirit to the disciples by setting up a stone of remembrance to the God who still comes to meet us. Genesis 28:10-22

In Genesis 39, Joseph did the right thing by resisting the sexual advances of his boss' wife. But instead of being apologized to, Joseph is accused of rape and sent to prison. This section of Joseph's life reminds us that doing right isn't always rewarded in a broken world. If you decide to serve Jesus faithfully with your life, what are the real risks of righteousness? (The Life of Joseph: Pain and Purpose, part 5)

Text:  Genesis 10   Introduction: The Table of Nations It is a testament to the accuracy of the Bible as true revelation from God. It connects us to the story of redemption. It underscores the sovereignty of God over all nations. It sets the stage for the holy war between the seed of the serpent vs. the seed of the woman.   God is Sovereign Over the Gentile Nations (Gen. 10:1-5) God established the line of Japheth, which included the Gentile Indo-European nations who settled in Europe, Asia, and North and South America. The Gentiles would be scattered throughout the earth, but God ensured that the Gospel would spread to the ends of the earth.   God is Sovereign Over the Warrior Nations (Gen. 10:6-20) The line of Ham reveals all of Israel's enemies who would seek to revolt against God and destroy His people. Despite the challenges to His sovereignty and His people, God remains undaunted in fulfilling His plan.   God is Sovereign Over the Hebrew Nation (Gen. 10:21-31) The line of Shem includes several people groups, but specifically the nation of Israel – God's chosen people. In Genesis 12, God makes a covenant with Abraham, which declares that through him all the nations of the earth will be blessed.   God's Sovereign Plan For All Nations (Gen. 10:32; Rev. 7:9-12) From the Table of Nations, we see the oneness of the human race; we are all descendants from Adam and Noah. From the Table of Nations, the stage is set for God redeem sinners from every nation for His glory.

A Sermon for Whitsunday Acts 2:1-11 by William Klock In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.  And so the great story began.  Six day.  God speaks.  And creation takes shape.  On the first day…on the second day…on the third day…and so on…like a liturgy.  In fact, there's a theory that Genesis 1 was written to be used at the dedication of the second temple.  Because it describes God creating the heavens and the earth as his own temple.  In Genesis 2 we even see that this temple has a holy of holies: a garden called Eden.  There he carefully crafts a man from the dust of the earth, breathes his own life into him, and places him in the garden, in that holy of holies, to act as his priest, to care for his temple, and to live in his presence. And then we humans sinned and it all went wrong.  But Genesis stands as a reminder of what the Lord intended and how it's supposed to be.  The pagans tried to get it back.  They built temples for their gods and in them, to represent the gods' rule, they placed idols carved of wood or stone.  And attempt to recover Eden, to re-enter that fellowship with God, but on our terms, not his.  But Genesis reminds us that God has built his own temple by the power of his creative word and that he created us to be his image, to tend and to keep his temple, and to steward his rule on earth. And Genesis…and the whole story that follows…reminds us that the Lord will not leave us forever cast out.  Into the midst of the darkness God spoke again and called forth Abraham and with Abraham and his family, God launched a new heaven-and-earth project.  Over and over he showed his faithfulness to Abraham, to Isaac, to Jacob, and to the whole people of Israel.  When they were slaves in Egypt he heard their cry and he rescued them.  He defeated Pharaoh and the Egyptians and led his beloved people through the Red Sea and into the wilderness.  At Mount Sinai the Lord gave the gift of the torah, the law, to Moses and the people.  And with the torah he gave them instructions, think of them as blueprints, for the tabernacle.  The Lord promised: I will be your God and you will be my people.  Once again, the Lord would take up his dwelling in their midst.  The tabernacle was a portable temple full of the symbols of the garden of Eden.  Wherever the people stopped to camp, they set up the tabernacle, and the glory cloud, the shekinah representing the Lord's presence, would descend to fill the holy of holies.  And the torah set the people apart from the nations and taught them how to be holy so that they might be the people who lived with the Lord in their midst.  Israel, camped around the tabernacle and the Lord's glory cloud, were a sort of new creation in miniature—heaven and earth, God and human beings back together, even if imperfectly.  It gave the people hope.  A hope that one day the Lord would truly and fully set this broken world to rights—to make things the way they're supposed to be.  And it wasn't just hope for Israel.  The Lord intended the watching nations to see his people and take note. That's the climax of the Exodus.  Not the Passover or the Red Sea.  Those are important—vitally important—parts of the story.  But it's Exodus 40, the last chapter of the book, where the Lord's glory clouds descends to dwell in the tabernacle—that's the climax.  The Lord once again dwelling with his people. We see it happen again when the Israelites are settled in the land of Canaan.  King Solomon builds a permanent temple for the Lord and, once again, at its dedication the glory cloud descends to fill the holy of holies. It was all there as part of the story to point the people in hope to God's restoration of heaven and earth—to the day when the Lord's promises would be fulfilled.  Because the Lord didn't just come to Israel and manifest himself in a cloud of glory; he spoke.  Israel's prophetic tradition was full of promises looking forward to that day. King David knew the Lord's promises and sang out in prophetic hope of that future day in Psalm 72: May he have dominion from sea to sea…May all kings fall down before him, all nations serve him…Blessed by the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things.  Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory!  Isaiah sang of the coming Messiah who would set creation to rights: There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.  And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him.  And when God has done his work through the Messiah, Isaiah sings, the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.  Habakkuk similarly would sing out in hope: For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.   When the Lord's cloud of glory descended to fill the temple, it pointed forward to that day when he would—when he will—fill all of creation with his glorious presence. Think about this hope that Israel had and how great it was and I think it helps give a sense of just how tragic it then was when Israel failed to keep her end of the covenant and the Lord allowed the Babylonian army to capture Jerusalem and to destroy the temple—his temple.  Israel sinned, Israel showed disregard for the law the Lord had given to keep her holy.  And worst of all—over and over and over—Israel prostituted herself to the gods of the pagans.  It was a deep, deep tragedy.  As the Psalmist laments in Psalm 137: By the rivers of Babylon we sat down and wept.  Not just for what was lost, but like Adam and Eve, cast out and weeping over their own disobedience.  But even then, in those dark, dark days of exile the Lord still spoke.  Through Isaiah and Ezekiel, through Zechariah and Malachi the Lord promised that he would come back to dwell with his people. And yet, as the Gospels begin, hundreds of years had passed and the Lord had yet to return.  Israel had returned from her exile.  The temple had been rebuilt.  The people and the priests went through all the motions.  The smoke went up from the great altar.  But the cloud of glory had never come down and returned to the temple.  And pagan kings still ruled with Israel under their heels. Again, this is where the Gospels begin.  St. John describes the darkness, the hopelessness, the absence and then he says that the word became flesh and lived among us…The light shone in the darkness.  Brothers and Sisters, the Gospels are about the return of God to his people in fulfilment of his promises.  The word—the embodiment of God's creative power—the word took on our flesh and was born of Mary.  In Jesus God not only returned to his people, he brought heaven and earth, God and humanity back together in his person.  Jesus is the manifestation of the hope of creation set to rights, of the breach between us and God healed.  Matthew puts it in terms of Isaiah's prophecy: Jesus is the promised Immanuel: God with us. And as the church has led us through the story of Jesus these last months, we've followed him to the cross where he took on himself the role of the Passover lamb.  He died for the sins of his people.  And just when sin and death thought they'd done their worst and defeated God once and for all, God raised Jesus from death.  It was like the Passover and the Red Sea all over again, only this time it wasn't an Egyptian king and his army that were defeated, it was evil itself. And then, last week, we stood with the disciples and watched as Jesus ascended to take his throne in heaven.  And if you know the story of Israel, if you know the Old Testament like Luke's readers did, you can't help but draw the connection.  If Jesus' death was a new Passover, then his ascension isn't just his going to heaven to take his throne as king.  It's definitely very much that and that's significant, but it also parallels Moses going up Mount Sinai to meet with the Lord.  And when Moses came down, he had the gift of the torah, the law, with him. And so now, in today's Gospel, from Acts 2 Luke writes: When the day of Pentecost had finally arrived, they were all together in the same place.   I'm sure Jesus' disciples were expecting something.  I don't think they knew exactly what.  As we heard in last week's Gospel, Jesus said that he had to leave, to take his throne—and the disciples would be sorry to see him go—but that it had to be that way, because Jesus would send the Holy Spirit to empower them.  At the last supper he'd said that with his blood he was making a new covenant.  They knew that a new covenant would need a new law—a new torah—because the law was what taught the people how to live out their end of the covenant, how to live as the people in whose midst the Lord dwelled. But what that would like was anyone's guess.  But when Jesus told them to go and wait in Jerusalem and that he would send the Spirit in a few days, I fully expect they made the connection with Pentecost, because Pentecost—which is just Greek for “fiftieth” because it's fifty days after Passover—because Pentecost was the great feast when Israel remembered and celebrate the giving of the law at Mount Sinai.  I think that by this time, the disciples were finally putting things together.  They were waiting those ten days with baited breath.  Jesus was alive.  Jesus was king.  Everything was happening just as he promised.  So they knew the Spirit would come.  But how?  And what would happen when he did?  And how would the Spirit be a new torah for this new covenant.  And so they obeyed Jesus.  They waited all together in Jerusalem—probably in that same “upper room” where they'd eaten the Passover.  And Luke goes on: Suddenly there came from heaven a noise like the sound of a mighty, rushing wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.   So many parts of the story come together here.  It helps to understand that wind and breath are the same word in both Hebrew and Greek.  And so this divine wind sweeps in to the room to breathe the breath of God into the disciples, reminding them of the way God gave life to Adam in the beginning—taking that lifeless lump of moulded clay and animating it, making it as we say, a soul—a living being.  But this time it's God breathing life into his new Israel.  There's a reason that the one thing the disciples made sure they did during those days of waiting was to appoint Matthias as a successor to Judas.  If they were to be the new Israel, they had to be twelve.  And now the Spirit comes and breathes the life of God into this new people. But, too, the imagery of the wind filling the house.  It doesn't just recall God breathing life into Adam.  It also recalls God's presence filling the tabernacle in Exodus 40 and the temple in 1 Kings 8.  The way God gives his Spirit is a reminder that Jesus people aren't just a people full of the Spirit.  Brothers and Sisters, being full of the Spirit makes us God's temple.  Jesus and us—together we're the beginning of God's new creation, the beginning of his restoration of heaven and earth.  Jesus has ascended to heaven bearing our human flesh.  And in the Spirit, God has come to earth to dwell with us.  In us, in Jesus' people, the restoration of Eden has begun.  That's why at the head of Jesus' prayer are is that powerful petition: Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. I think this is why all through the rest of Acts, stuff keeps happening at temples, whether it's the next couple of chapters as we follow the events of Pentecost and Peter preaching and thousands being baptised or later as Paul confronts the pagans in their temples in Athens and Ephesus.  All because in Jesus and his people God's real temple is being built—brick by brick, stone by stone, with each baptism…all laid on the foundation of the death and resurrection of Jesus. So the disciples already knew when Jesus rose from death that new creation had begun.  Jesus was the first part of it.  And they were so excited to go out and tell everyone that Jesus had to calm them down and tell them to wait.  Enthusiasm is never enough.  They needed to be made part of that new creation too.  And that's what the Spirit does here.  One day, when the church's work is done and Jesus returns to finally cast death itself into the lake of fire, God will raise us as he raised Jesus and we will know fully the life he intends for us.  But the time for that hasn't yet come.  The gift of the Spirit is the downpayment on that life—or to use an Old Testament term for it: the Spirit is the firstfruits of God's new creation. And that's the other part of the feast of Pentecost that comes into this.  Pentecost wasn't just the celebration of God's giving of the law to Israel.  It was also the festival where the people brought their firstfruits to God.  They brought the first of their crops—like a sheaf of wheat—not just to give thanks for the harvest, but in expectant hope of his provision—trusting him for a plentiful harvest.  From now on, for Jesus' people, Pentecost is just that: a reminder that the harvest has begun and that the Spirit is sure to make it a plentiful one. But it wasn't just the wind.  Luke goes on in verse 3: Then tongues, seemingly of fire, appeared to them, moving apart and coming to rest on each one of them.  They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them the words to say.   The wind from heaven fills them and the Spirit manifests himself as flame and then they start to speak in other languages.  Again, the big story tells us why the Spirit came this way.  Genesis explains the origin of different languages and people groups with the story of Babel.  It's the low point in human history.  Adam and Eve sin in Chapter 3, Cain murders his brother in Chapter 4, and humanity goes downhill from there until, in Chapter11, we've lost all knowledge of God.  In their hubris, the men of Babel built a tower to reach heaven and in response, the Lord confused their languages and scattered them.  It's a bit like Psalm 2 and Daniel 7 that I mentioned last week.  The nations rage, but God laughs.  But all the while he has a plan to set us to rights.  In Psalm 2 it's the son of David who will reign as king.  In Daniel 7 it's the son of man who will be enthroned by the Ancient of Days.  And here at Pentecost, the son of David who is also the son of man takes his throne and sends the Spirit who creates a people ready to undo Babel. Luke goes on in verse 5: There were devout Jews from every nation under heaven staying in Jerusalem at that time.  [Remember, because it was Pentecost.]  When they heard this noise they came together in a crowd.  They were deeply puzzled, because every single one of them could hear them speaking in his or her own native language.  They were astonished and amazed.  “These men who are doing the speaking are all Galileans, aren't they?” they said.  “So how is it that each of us can hear them in our own mother tongues?   Luke goes on to list people from countries across the whole Roman empire and some from even beyond that.  And the men hearing this go on with the most important detail, “We can hear them telling us about the mighty things God has done—in our own languages.”   What does it mean?  Brothers and Sisters, this gift of tongues to the disciples was a sign.  It was a sign that Jesus truly had ascended to his throne and he now rules over a global dominion.  And it means that through his people, through his church, Jesus has inaugurated God's new creation and has begun the work of setting everything to rights—starting with the confusion of Babel. And that's where today's Epistle ends, which is a bit disappointing.  I wish we had a Pentecost season where we could at least work through the next couple of chapters.  “What does all this mean?” they ask, and in response Peter begins to preach and he explains to the gathered men how this was all in fulfilment of God's promises.  These first eleven verses will have to be enough for today. Brothers and Sisters, Pentecost reminds us who we are.  Again, think of Israel, rescued from Egypt and then formed as a people in the wilderness—a people defined by the law and by God dwelling in their midst.  Pentecost is a reminder to us that in Jesus, God has delivered us from our bondage to sin and death and that he has made us a people defined by his new law: the life of the Spirit.  And we don't just have God in our midst; we are indwelt by God himself in the Spirit.  Pentecost is a reminder that in making us this Spirit-filled people, God has made us his temple.  We are the place where the world meets God.  But our calling isn't simply to sit here like the temple on Mount Zion and wait for people to come.  Our calling is to be a temple on the move and a temple dispersed—a temple that goes out and meets the world with God and with the gospel—with the good news that Jesus, crucified and risen, is the world's true Lord.  You and I have been entrusted with the story.  Go out and proclaim the mighty deeds of God and the Spirit will use that proclamation to change hearts and to grow the kingdom.  And, finally, Pentecost is a reminder that as God's temple, we are also the firstfruits of God's new creation.  We as a people are called to live out the life of God—not just to steward his word and to proclaim his gospel, but to truly be light in the darkness: living out and working for mercy and love and justice, showing the world the value of goodness, truth, and beauty, teaching reconciliation, bringing healing.  In other words, Brothers and Sisters, pulling God's future into the present.  Not just praying “on earth as in heaven”, but living out that prayer so that all the world will see and doing so in trusting hope that God's promise is true.  One day, when the church has done her job declaring the mighty deeds of God, the earth will be filled with the knowledge of his glory as the waters cover the sea.  That is what it means to be a “Pentecostal” people. Let's pray: O GOD, who on this day taught the hearts of your faithful people by sending to them the light of your Holy Spirit: Grant us by the same Spirit to have a right judgment in all things, and evermore to rejoice in his holy comfort; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.  Amen.

In Genesis we learn who our God is. One of the ways we learn who our God is through the names by which he reveals himself. In Genesis 16 and 17 we find two names for God. In this sermon, Pastor Jess Miller looks at how God has revealed himself as, "God Almighty."

In Genesis 22, God commands Abraham to sacrifice his only son, a story often used to show the faithfulness of Abraham. But what does that same story say about the faith of Isaac, who willingly allowed himself to become a sacrifice? Join John Bradshaw for “Great Characters of the Bible” and learn the importance of trusting God's promises and guidance.

In Genesis 22, God commands Abraham to sacrifice his only son, a story often used to show the faithfulness of Abraham. But what does that same story say about the faith of Isaac, who willingly allowed himself to become a sacrifice? Join John Bradshaw for “Great Characters of the Bible” and learn the importance of trusting God's promises and guidance.

What would it be like to meet God? In Genesis 18, Abraham finds out. Through his encounter with God, Abraham learns that God desires to meet with His people, that He is a righteous judge, and that He at the same time delights to show mercy. This message was given by Tim Guenther of Thrive Harbor. Scripture passages cited (or alluded to) in this message include Genesis 18; Exodus 33:20; Psalm 19:1; John 17:24; Luke 24:13-35; Romans 10:9; Matthew 26:42; 2 Corinthians 5:21; and Isaiah 53.

Hebrews 13 begins, “Let brotherly love (Greek “philadelphus” the love among brothers) continue”. And this is the message of the first nineteen verses. There are many ways to show brotherly love and in verse 2 the writer shows that hospitality is one of the ways. Everyone is a stranger until you get to know them; and who knows whether the unknown person to whom you show kindness might even be an angel. In Genesis 18:3 strangers came to Abraham's tent bringing great blessings. Verse 3 focuses on supporting the afflicted and counsels believers to encourage the afflicted through visiting and exhorting. This helping of strangers has often been done by Christadelphians resulting in people becoming believers. Even if that was not the outcome of your actions you will still be blessed in your care being shown to another. Verse 4 tells of the honourable and elevated state of marriage among believers; and states that sexual relationships outside marriage are totally unacceptable to God. Verse 5 tells of the dangers of coveting and explains that knowing God is the best way to counter this. It is important to be content (see 1 Timothy 6:5-10) with all that you have. The literal Greek of this verse Hebrews 13:5) is – “I will never, no not ever, leave you, nor forsake you”. How incredibly encouraging are these thoughts – so that whatever is before us can overcome in the confidence of knowing that God is with you. One person and God is always an overwhelming majority (see 2 Kings 6:16). Always (v7) show respect for those who guide you to understand the Word and counsel from God's Word. Imitate their faith, for it is sustained by an unchanging Lord Jesus Christ (v8). We must be led by grace (v9). We ought not be focused on the present – this includes foods, which are all too important a part of today's transient world. Verse 10 we are constrained to live lives sacrificing everything upon our altar, Christ, who gave all to bring us to God. The Law of Moses taught the same in its code of offerings. The Law was leading us to Christ; as the writer was through the spirit reminding and encouraging the believers (compare Galatians 3:23-26). As a consequence of his doing this our Lord was crucified and we must take up our stake and follow him. Believers are citizens of the coming Zion and not of the then present Jerusalem, which was awaiting destruction. Our sacrifice is of praise – an attitude of gratitude (v15). The readers are encouraged to show submission to their guides in the Word, because it is not for their own benefit that they give their counsel. Those leaders, too, will be called to give account for their words. Pray for the writer, indeed for all who labour in the Word, that all will magnify our Sovereign and His incomparable Son. Verses 20-21 give us the closing benediction. ESV “Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ to whom be glory for ever. Amen.” Pause and ponder. Final greetings follow and finish with a request for God's grace to be with them.

’Tis a fearful thing/to love what death can touch. That line begins a poem written over a thousand years ago by the Jewish poet Judah Halevi, translated in the twentieth century. The poet clarifies what’s behind the fear: to love . . . / And oh, to lose. In Genesis, an outpouring of emotion occurred when Abraham lost Sarah in death. “Abraham went to mourn for Sarah and to weep over her” (23:2). The chapter unfolds the beautiful, grief-heavy story of the loss of one of Scripture’s most memorable characters: Sarah, the faithful wife of Abraham, that old woman who laughed at the news she’d be a mother (18:11-12) but cried in pain as Isaac made his way into this world. We make much of that crisp, humanity-rich verse in John’s gospel: “Jesus wept” (John 11:35). Jesus’ tears at the tomb of Lazarus emphasized His loss. To love is indeed a fearful thing. The poet Halevi calls it a thing for fools, yet he follows by also naming it a holy thing, which it is, especially for those whose faith is “hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3). We love and lose everything from spouses to children to parents to friends to pets, and weeping with painful joy is oh-so-human. Yet for the believer in Jesus, our weeping only lasts for the proverbial night. As David wrote, “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5). Our Father hasn’t left us bereft of hope.

What does it take to raise children who love and follow the Lord? In Genesis 18, God singles out Abraham—not for his wealth or influence, but for the way he would lead his family in righteousness. Join Jim Scudder on InGrace as he begins this new series on building a legacy that lasts.

In Genesis 3, Adam and Eve fall into the trap of imitation—grasping for God's authority, righteousness, and relationship—rather than walking in authentic trust. This same pattern is echoed in 1 John 2 and Matthew 4, where Jesus resists the very temptations they succumbed to. Through His perfect obedience and sacrificial covering, Jesus frees us from the need to perform or hide, inviting us into a life of authenticity. In a season where spiritual drift is common, we're called to shed the baggage of imitation and walk openly and honestly with God. Questions? Email: hello@citylifechurch.nyc For more information visit: https://citylifechurch.nyc Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/citylifechurchnyc?locale=eo_EOAll Music Licensed through CCLI - https://us.ccli.comCCLI Streaming Plus License # 21120922 Episode 407

In Genesis 39, Joseph faces his most daunting challenge yet, and that is resisting the bold sexual advances of his boss' wife. When we study Joseph's response, what strategies can you learn about defeating temptation in your life? How can you face down temptation successfully and come out the winner?  (The Life of Joseph: Pain and Purpose, part 4)

In Genesis 7, the floodwaters come, and with them, the sobering reality of God's judgment on a corrupt world. But even in the storm, we see the faithfulness of God to preserve Noah and his family. In this episode of Rooted Together, we dive into the global flood, Noah's obedience, and what it means to trust God when the rain begins to fall.

Do You Struggle with Your “Prayer Life”? Find a Quiet Place for Your Personal Relationship with God and Pray to the Universe's Creator MESSAGE SUMMARY: Do you struggle with your “Prayer Life”, even though you know it is the most important component of a life lived as a Jesus Follower? Abraham provides you with a model for a “Prayer Life” that works. Abraham was an awesome man, and he had things happen in his life that were both important for him and humankind down through the ages as a resultant of his “Prayer Life”. For the development of your own “Prayer Life”, you can learn from Abraham's “Prayer Life”. One of the first things Abraham did, when he went to a new location or was in a new situation, was to build an altar to the Lord and call on the Lord's name in prayer. In Genesis 12:8, Abraham's focus on and the priority given to his “Prayer Life” is described: “From there he {Abraham}moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east. And there he built an altar to the LORD and called upon the name of the LORD.". Prayer was a priority for Abraham to build a place for God in his life and for his personal relationship with God. A way you can follow Abraham's example is to find an altar, a church, or a quiet place in your life to worship and pray, and to call upon the Lord's name like Abraham.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen.  Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Genesis 12:7-8; Genesis 13:3-18; Genesis 22:9-14; Psalms 79:1-13. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Are You Filled with the Holy Spirit?” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/    DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

In Genesis 26:6-11 we see that Isaac has not only inherited his father's blessings but also his father's sins. This is a sobering warning to all of us. There is a generational nature to sin just as there is a generational nature to blessings. Let us, therefore, strive to live holy lives.

     As a Christian, it is possible to have correct thinking (orthodoxy) and not live by it. James wrote, “To one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin” (Jam 4:17). There are times when believers know God's Word, but because of negative volition, do not apply it. Biblically speaking, it is possible for believers to commit any sin an unbeliever can commit. For example, Aaron led the Israelites to worship an idol (Ex 32:1-6). Gideon made an ephod which became an object of worship in Israel (Judg 8:27). Samson slept with prostitutes (Judg 16:1-4). In fact, there are examples in Scripture of believers who fell into habitual sin, in which they repeated the same sin over and over. This did not cause them to forfeit their salvation, but hindered the work of God in an area of their life.      Abraham had a recurring habit of lying about his relationship with his wife, Sarah. In Genesis 12, fearing for his life, Abraham told Sarah, “Please say that you are my sister so that it may go well with me because of you, and that I may live on account of you” (Gen 12:13). Later, in Genesis 20, he did it again, telling Abimelech, “She is my sister” (Gen 20:2). After God intervened and saved Sarah, Abraham admitted that he had instructed her, saying, “Everywhere we go, say of me, ‘He is my brother'” (Gen 20:13b). This pattern of behavior reveals a habitual sin. Longman states, “Here we have an example of a habitual sin. After the first occurrence when he went to Egypt (Gen 12:10–20), he knew that God was displeased with his behavior, but he continued to struggle with his self-protective lying until at least this point in his life.”[1]      For decades, King David practiced the sin of polygamy contrary to the Law of Moses, which specifically commanded the king of Israel, that “he shall not multiply wives for himself” (Deut 17:17). This command was meant to prevent the king from being led astray, as was common among pagan rulers who amassed wives for political alliances, wealth, and personal indulgence. Despite this clear directive, David engaged in polygamy throughout his life. His first recorded wife was Michal, the daughter of Saul (1 Sam 18:27), and while fleeing from Saul, he married Abigail and Ahinoam (1 Sam 25:39-43). After becoming king, he continued this pattern, marrying Bathsheba following his grievous sins of adultery and murder (2 Sam 11:2-27). Additionally, 2 Samuel 3:2-5 names six other wives—Maacah, Haggith, Abital, and Eglah, along with Abigail and Ahinoam—and Scripture further records that “David took more concubines and wives from Jerusalem, after he came from Hebron” (2 Sam 5:13). This reveals that his polygamy was not a momentary lapse but an ongoing practice in violation of God's law.      Solomon is another example of a believer falling into habitual sin. God called Solomon “My son” (2 Sam 7:14), heard his prayer (2 Ch 1:8-10), made him king over Israel (2 Ch 1:11), granted him “wisdom and knowledge” (2 Ch 1:12), used him to write three books of the Bible (Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon), directed him to build the temple in Jerusalem over a period of seven years (1 Ki 6:38), made him ruler of Israel for forty years (1 Ki 11:42), and we are told that “Solomon loved the LORD and walked in the statutes of his father David” (1 Ki 3:3a). These are all signs of a true believer. However, according to Scripture, Solomon disobeyed God's command for the king of Israel, which stated, “He shall not multiply wives for himself” (Deut 17:17a). Despite this directive, Solomon practiced polygamy, having “seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines, and his wives turned his heart away” (1 Ki 11:3). Solomon's disobedience was not a singular event but extended over many years, persisting until the end of his days. By the conclusion of his life, Solomon had forsaken his wisdom, as “his wives turned his heart away after other gods” (1 Kings 11:4a). Because Solomon consented to their corrupting pagan influence, he was “not wholly devoted to the LORD his God” (1 Ki 11:4b). Because he had negative volition, “Solomon did what was evil in the sight of the LORD” (1 Ki 11:6). Solomon's evil practices demonstrate that a true believer—who cannot forfeit his salvation—can completely turn away from the Lord and commit himself to a lifestyle of sin. After Solomon turned away from the Lord and worshipped idols, Scripture reveals God severely disciplined him for his sin (1 Ki 11:11-43). Dr. Steven R. Cook   [1] Tremper Longman III, Genesis, The Story of God Bible Commentary, 265.

We're examining four key theological themes in the book of Genesis: God, man, sin and salvation. We are studying who God is as he has revealed himself through his names. In Genesis fourteen we learn another name of God's; he is, "God Most High".

In Genesis 12, God gave a promise of great blessing to Abram. In the New Testament Gospels, we read that we have a Father who will give good things to those who ask. Join Pastor Dwayne as he discusses how the Lord wants to bless us each and every day and wants to bless the church.

In the third episode of "The Purpose of Marriage," Duane Sheriff explains that marriage is a sacred institution created by God for companionship and partnership, mirroring the relationship between Christ and the Church. In Genesis 2, the story of Adam and Eve, God states that it is "not good" for man to be alone. This story emphasizes our deep-rooted desire for companionship and partnership. The creation of Eve from Adam's rib symbolizes the unity and intimacy that God intended for marriage.Click for FREE offer ➡️https://pastorduane.com/the-purpose-of-marriage/

"You don't need to build a name for yourself—God has already given you one." In Genesis 11, mankind sought to make a name for themselves by building a tower that reached into the heavens. But their disobedience to God's command to spread across the earth led only to confusion. In this powerful message, Pastor David Grobler unpacks the heart behind the Tower of Babel—and contrasts it with the name above all names: Jesus. You don't climb your way to God; He came down to you.

Ever had a spiritual faceplant you wish you could undo? You’re not alone. Abraham—yep, the father of our faith—blew it in a big way. But grace didn’t give up on him, and it won’t give up on you either. Key Takeaways Grace Offers Do-Overs – Even when we fail, God’s mercy meets us with a fresh start (Lamentations 3:22-23). Abraham Messed Up Too – He let fear rule and threw his wife under the proverbial camel. Still, God didn’t cancel him—He called him back. Return to the Altar – After failing in Egypt, Abraham went back to where he first encountered God (Genesis 13:4). Returning to God is always the right next step. Failure Isn’t Final – Your spiritual missteps don’t have to define your story. In Christ, shame doesn’t stick—redemption does. Join the Conversation What “altar” do you need to return to? What would it look like for you to start over today with God's grace in view? Share your thoughts with us using #LifeaudioNetwork and let others be encouraged by your journey. You’re not too far gone. God’s mercy says, “Let’s try again—together.”

In Genesis 39, Joseph arrives in Egypt and is sold as a slave. But despite these challenging circumstances, God is orchestrating every step of Joseph's story. What connections can be made from Joseph's life to your life? Is your life just another random ride on a roller coaster?  What are four rock-solid realities that you can always count on? (The Life of Joseph: Pain and Purpose, part 3)   

In Genesis 45:4-10 Joseph shows how to respond to suffering and circumstances. By rejecting cynicism, he locates his purpose by believing true things about his circumstances and his God.           From May 25, 2025--Want to get connected to Coastway Church?Visit https://coastwaychurch.com/im-new--Find us online at:Website: https://coastwaychurch.comFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/coastwaychurchInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/coastwaychurch

In Genesis 26:1-5 we see that Isaac inherits the blessings of his father. What we see established in the book of Genesis is that God's promises are often generational. This ought to inform our prayers and our work as parents. May God grant that our children would call upon God according to His grace, that He would be their God as well as ours.

In Genesis 1, we are told that God made man in His image. That means who we are and what we are begins with God. It doesn't begin with textbooks, school curriculums, census reports, or history books. It doesn't begin with a society that either seeks to ignore us or define us. It begins with the God who made us. That means we don't have to allow society to tell us who we are. We don't need America to validate us. And we don't need our oppressors to affirm us. We've already been stamped by the Creator. That means we can say it loud, “I'm Black and I'm Proud,” not because it's politically correct or culturally relevant, but because it is theologically accurate.

At the darkest moment in human history, God gave the first glimpse of the gospel. In Genesis 3:20–24, we see Adam's response of faith, God's gracious provision of a covering, and a guarded way that points to Jesus Christ.This sermon explores how fig leaves, substitutionary sacrifice, and banishment from Eden all foreshadow the cross of Christ and the righteousness we receive through faith. Discover how this often-overlooked passage reveals the heart of the gospel and transforms how we live today.

WEEK 4: HIS POWER IS PERFECTJoseph: In God's HandsBeholding the Perfect Sovereignty of GodTwo years passed in silence. But God hadn't paused. In Genesis 41, Pharaoh's disturbing dreams become the hinge point of Joseph's story—and God's perfect plan. From forgotten prisoner to second-in-command of Egypt, Joseph's life turns dramatically, not by luck, but by divine power.In this message, Pastor Craig reminds us that even in pain, God is never absent. He's preparing us, refining us, and positioning us for what's next. Joseph's rise from the dungeon to the palace is a vivid reminder that nothing is wasted—and God's timing is always perfect.Key Themes:God is at work even when we feel stuck.Pain becomes preparation in the hands of God.His Word still speaks clearly today—never contradicting itself.The “two-a-days” of life are part of the training ground for your calling.Scripture References:Genesis 41Romans 8:282 Corinthians 12:9Isaiah 55:8-9James 1:2-4If you're in a hard season, this message is for you. You are not forgotten. God's not done.For prayer or connection, visit bannockburnchurch.com/prayer

In this episode, we crack open something most believers have never even noticed: In Genesis 2:12, God says the gold of the land was “good.” Wait, what? Before money was minted, before greed and shame twisted its meaning, God placed gold in Eden... and He called it good. That same word—“good”—used for trees, land, animals, and all creation. Money wasn't cursed. It was created by God and called "good". We dive into: The 8 times gold is mentioned in Genesis—and why that number matters. Why gold is incorruptible (literally) and what that symbolizes. How Abraham's wealth wasn't just allowed—it was celebrated. The surprising truth about opulence and what God really designed money for. Why your discomfort with money might not be holy… it might be unhealed.   Resources Mentioned:

In this episode, Tracy unpacks practical ways to help your kids tell the truth—showing how honesty builds trust, honors God, and shapes godly character.--The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Teaching Kids to Tell the TruthLying is making an untrue statement with the intent to deceive and gain some advantage. As parents, it's crucial to address this issue from a spiritual perspective because lying is part of our sin nature (Romans 3:23). The Bible mentions lying between 155-180 times, depending on the translation, highlighting its significance in God's eyes.Why Do Kids Lie?Children lie for various reasons, including:To meet a need – They want something, like a cookie on the counter, and lying seems like an easy way to get it.To avoid trouble – They fear consequences, like breaking something and blaming a sibling.For attention – They exaggerate or fabricate stories to impress others.God's Perspective on LyingLying started at the beginning of time. In Genesis 3, Adam and Eve tried to deceive God by hiding after they sinned. This shows that dishonesty is deeply ingrained in human nature.God takes lying seriously, and so should we as parents. The Bible explicitly warns against it:Leviticus 19:11 – "Do not steal. Do not deceive or cheat one another."Proverbs 6:16-19 – "There are six things that the Lord hates… a lying tongue, a false witness who breathes out lies..."One of the 10 commandments “not to bear false witness”Lying damages relationships, erodes trust, and goes against God's nature. As parents, our goal is to train our children to value truthfulness and recognize the long-term consequences of dishonesty.How to Train Kids to Be Honest1. Model TruthfulnessChildren learn by example. If they see parents lying—whether about small things like “I'm not home” when avoiding a call or exaggerating stories—they will assume dishonesty is acceptable.2. Create a Safe Environment for HonestyEncourage open conversations where your child feels safe to tell the truth without immediate harsh consequences. Family discussions and Bible-based resources help cultivate this environment.3. Explain How Lying Hurts OthersHelp children understand that lying damages relationships:Breaks trust – When someone lies, others find it difficult to rely on them.Hurts feelings – Lies can cause emotional pain to family and friends.Makes life uncertain – Example: If parents didn't follow through on picking up their child from school, it would create insecurity.4. Be Gracious But ClearDon't overreact when a child confesses. Instead, affirm their honesty while addressing the wrongdoing.Deliver appropriate consequences without anger, explaining that lost trust leads to fewer...

Hosts Pastor Robert Baltodano and Pastor Johnny Zacchio Question Timestamps: Ava, email (2:21) - Was Satan the first to sin or Adam? Josh, email (3:17) - What is a practical way to get closer to God? Pamela, NY (6:22) - Why did Jesus wait four days to resurrect Lazarus? When did we start taking our sabbath on Sunday rather than Saturday? Polo, YouTube (11:10) - What can you say about the supremacy of Jesus through the book of Hebrews? Karen, VA (13:25) - Have you heard of the crucible conference? Nelson, NJ (16:40) - Were people stoned for adultery? Is the Enduring Word commentary correct in its description of the levitical law? Was it rare for people to get stoned for adultery? William, YouTube (21:08) - What do you do if you can?t find a church that preaches the truth? Lightwalker607, YouTube (23:20) - In Genesis 2:25, why would Adam and Eve be ashamed if they were created naked? Steve, email (26:20) - How can I know if I?m being legalistic in my obedience to the Lord? Deborah, caller (35:31) - How is it legalistic to abide by treating the sabbath as a day of rest? Elizabeth, MA (44:01) - Why did Jesus rise on the third day, when the Jews thought the spirit stuck with the body until the fourth day? Ed, NJ (46:21) - My friend asks me ?why would God send me to hell when I was born gay?? Did the archangel Gabriel choke Muhammad? Karen, FL (52:34) - What chapter should I start with in reading the Bible? Ask Your Question: 888-712-7434 Answers@bbtlive.org

At the age of fifty-one, Ynes Mexia (1870-1938) decided to study botany, enrolling as a college freshman. Over her thirteen-year career, she traveled across Central and South America, discovering five hundred new species of plants. She’s not alone in her quest. Scientists discover nearly two thousand new plants each year. In Genesis 1, God took a formless, empty, and dark earth (v. 2) and created a place full of abundance. On the third day, God separated the waters to create dry land and began making it hospitable for humans by having “the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit” (v. 11). These were seed-bearing plants and fruit trees from which we could eat. God didn’t create just one type of fruit tree but an abundance. God isn’t only the Creator (v. 1); He’s also creative. He enjoys making different types of plants and animals and stars. If God cared only about giving us food, He could have made just one kind of seed-bearing plant. But God is extravagant and never does things in half measures. God’s abundance isn’t limited to His creation. He’s also generous with His grace. As Paul said, “The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 1:14). As with God’s creation, His grace is more than we need and offered with us in mind.

In Genesis 25:27-34 Esau famously sells his birthright to Jacob, who shows himself to be one who connives for the sake of personal gain. Neither character is worthy of God's grace, but in the end Jacob will receive it. How does this work? Why does Jacob receive grace? It is not because he is worthy, since then grace would not be grace.

In Genesis 22, we have one of the most well-known stories in the Old Testament - Abraham sacrificing Isaac. The Lord calls Abraham to Moriah; he embarks on a three-day journey, and we see the Lord as faithful as always. We hope this sermon blesses you in the Lord. Originally May 18th, 2025. Hank Atchison. Covenant Church. Tuscaloosa, AL.

The Bible begins with a garden, and it ends with a garden. In the first garden, Adam and Eve sinned and what they received and what we inherited was a curse. To Eve and all her daughters, God said: I will greatly multiply your pain in childbirth, in pain you shall deliver children; yet your desire will be for your husband, and he shall rule over you (Gen. 3:16). To Adam and all his sons, God said: Cursed is the ground because of you; with hard labor you shall eat from it all the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you; yet you shall eat the plants of the field; by the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, until you return to the ground, because from it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return (Gen. 3:1719). Essentially, what the curse would produce for them was the kind of suffering that sticks. What do I mean by characterizing the curse with the kind of pain that sticks with you? If you have ever suffered from nerve pain, you know from experience the kind of pain I am talking about. There are some prescription medications that can help numb you to the pain, but nerve pain is very difficult to treat. If you have had sciatica, any form of back pain, a pinched nerve, or anything of that nature, you have experienced the kind of pain that sticks. Sometime ago I read a quote from someone who said, Our first parents bit into the forbidden fruit and our teeth have ached ever since. That person was not referring to the kind of ache you might experience when you bit into something cold or hard, no... the kind of ache is the one I experienced after having all four impacted wisdom teeth taken out of my jaw in my late 20s. The curse has left us with a kind of aching that sticks and is with us until our final breath, and it is this ache that leaves us with tears. Tears over our broken world, tears over a relationship, tears over wayward children, tears over the hurt and damage caused by parents, tears over the problems sin causes in our world and to our own selves. The House that Adam and Eve Had Adam and Eve enjoyed the presence of God in a Garden that was not at all dissimilar to the tabernacle the Israelites set up and tore down as they journeyed in the wilderness, nor was it unlike the temple Solomon built after Davids death. The tabernacle and temple were designed as a model to reflect Eden as the house of the Lord. What Adam and Eve had in the garden was a gift from God that included the presence of God; In his excellent book, The Warrior Savior, Owen Strachan wrote of Eden, From the start, God sought faithfulness on the part of his people through testing. He gave them a forest-garden overflowing with beauty and gladness, trees spilling unblemished fruit, but he also gave them a prohibitionone delivered under the starkest terms: death from disobedience.[1] The tabernacle and the temple served to remind Gods people not only of the beauty of Eden but the promise that His people would one day be where He is... in His presence. So, when David wrote the last line in Psalm 23, it was the promise of God to restore what was lost in Eden that he had his heart and eyes set upon. To be in the house of the Lord is to be with the Lord. David does not have a building in mind here, but to be in the presence of God. The house of the Lord is not a structure but wherever it is that He dwells. What made the loss of Eden so devastating and catastrophic was not Adam and Eves expulsion from the garden, but that they were driven away from the presence of God. In other words, what made Eden home was the presence of God not the other things that were a part of Edens beauty. Before Adam and Eve were driven outside of the garden, God cursed the snake and promised the first couple that things would not stay cursed because He would send a Deliverer to reverse the curse of sin. The serpent entered Gods house (the Garden) and enticed Eve and her husband to doubt God and question both His goodness and faithfulness! In the garden the crafty and cunning snake spoke: Has God really said, You shall not eat from any tree of the garden? Eve replied: From the fruit of the trees of the garden we may eat; but from the fruit of the tree which is in the middle of the garden, God has said, You shall not eat from it or touch it, or you will die (Gen. 3:23). The serpent then went in for the strike: You certainly will not die! For God knows that on the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will become like God, knowing good and evil (Gen. 3:45). Adam and Eve succumbed to Satans temptation and bit into the forbidden fruit, but that is not how the story ends! God found the couple and He spoke to the great serpent what is a promise to all mankind: And I will make enemies of you and the woman, and of your offspring and her Descendant; He shall bruise you on the head, and you shall bruise Him on the heel (Gen. 3:15). Strachan observes: In Genesis 3, the snake spoke first. But the snake did not have the last word in Eden, just as the devil will not have the last word in history. Strachan continues: When God shows up, the hiding stops, and justice rolls down.... the God who comes to earth is not only pursuing a mission of justice. This God is, even more, about to unleash a great rolling flood of mercy.[2] It is the promise of a better Eden through the promise of a snake-stomping redeemer that David had in mind when he wrote: Certainly goodness and faithfulness will follow me all the days of my life, and my dwelling will be in the house of the Lord forever (v. 6). Who can guide me, who can restore me, who will keep me, who will bless me, and who is it that loves me? It is the Lord of the 23rd Psalm and He will lead me to the place where I will be able to see Him face-to-face in His house forever. The House that We are Promised We have seen over and over again throughout this series that the Lord of the 23rd Psalm is Jesus the Good Shepherd, for He said of Himself: I am the good shepherd, and I know My own, and My own know Me, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep (John 10:14-15). The serpent is a thief, and Jesus said of him: The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly (John 10:10). The 23rd Psalm is the promise of the abundant life that can only be experienced through the good shepherd. The abundant life includes the table He has prepared before me in the presence of my enemies (v. 5a). The abundant life is to have His favor in the form of the oil He has anointed my head with and the cup he has placed in my hand that is overflowing with His blessing! This is what Paul meant when he wrote Ephesians 1:3, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ... The cup of Gods favor is Ephesians 1:7, In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace. Now, think again what it is that the 23rd Psalm is saying to those of us who have been found by the good shepherd. The good shepherd leads me: The Lord is my shepherd, I will not be in need. He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. The good shepherd restores me: He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. The good shepherd keeps me: Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. The good shepherd blesses me: You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows. The good shepherd loves me: Certainly goodness and faithfulness will follow me all the days of my life, and my dwelling will be in the house of the Lord forever. What does this all mean? There are no green pastures or quiet waters without Jesus leading you. There is no restoration for your soul or the righteousness you need apart from Jesus as your guide. There is no walking THROUGH the valley of deep darkness apart from Jesus keeping and guarding you. There is no blessing and treasuring of God upon you without Jesus. Finally, there is no goodness, faithfulness, and a better Eden apart from the God who loved you so much that He sent His one and only Son! Why did David long to dwell in the house of the Lord? What is it that makes heaven great? For what reasons does the promise of a better Eden outweigh all the sorrows of this world? These questions have nothing to do with the place and location of the house of the Lord, heaven, a new and better Eden, but everything to do with the One who is in the House David longed to dwell, heaven, and the new and better Eden. When Jesus prayed hours before His crucifixion, He prayed this: Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, for You loved Me before the foundation of the world (John 17:24). This is one of the reasons Jesus assured His disciples: In My Fathers house are many rooms; if that were not so, I would have told you, because I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I am coming again and will take you to Myself, so that where I am, there you also will be (John 14:23). For David, the blessing of being in the house of the Lord forever was that he would be with the Good Shepherd forever. In his commentary on Psalm 23, James Johnston commented on this very point: Take away the people and a house becomes a sad and empty place. The joy of Heaven is not mansions or streets of gold. Jesus is the joy of Heaven. It will be home because he is there.[3] The Better House that David Longed For For starters, what we know from verse six is that it is certainly ours, which means that without any doubt, for those of us whose shepherd is Jesus, our dwelling will be with him. How long will our dwelling be with Him? The answer is simple: Forever. What is the House that we will dwell in forever, besides the fact that it is the Lords house? It is the restoration of what was lost in the first Eden, but better! It is the city that Davids great, great, great grandfather longed to receive, for we are told from the book of Hebrews: By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he left, not knowing where he was going. By faith he lived as a stranger in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, fellow heirs of the same promise; for he was looking for the city which has foundations, whose architect and builder is God (Heb. 11:810). Abraham was looking for a city not made with human hands because he longed for the same thing David longed for in Psalm 23:6. The house of the Lord is the city that belongs to the Christian: For here we do not have a lasting city, but we are seeking the city which is to come (Heb. 13:14). We will receive the city we are looking and longing for when God makes all things new once and for all. It is the thing that Paul wrote about in Romans eight, For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the eagerly awaiting creation waits for the revealing of the sons and daughters of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself also will be set free from its slavery to corruption into the freedom of the glory of the children of God. (Rom. 8:1821) The house of the Lord that David was looking forward to spending forever in is a resurrected and redeemed earth free from the curse of sin. The Bible is full of images describing what it will be like to live in a resurrected earth free of the curse of sin. In Revelation 21, we are told that when God does make all things new and we inherit the city He has promised us, He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away (Rev. 21:4). On that day, we will see God face to face in the same way that Adam and Eve did; here is what we are told in Revelation 21:3, Behold, the tabernacle of God is among the people, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them... God will wipe away our tears because there will be no curse to cause them ever again. The new earth will be like the Garden of Eden but better; it will also be like heaven today, but better. We will enjoy physical bodies and a physical planet where the veil that shields our complete interaction of all that is spiritual will be pulled back. We will walk with angels; enjoy a full and perfect creation that will include trees, mountains, and rivers. There will be one City the City of God where we will be able to go in and out. We will run through the forests, climb mountains, eat amazing food, run barefoot through the prairies, enjoy the light of something more powerful and radiant than the sun. We will dwell on a new earth that will never again know the cold of night, but the light of a day illuminated by the Glory of God. But understand this: none of it will be worth it if our Triune God is not there! Listen, we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever because of the certainty of His goodness and faithfulness that pursues His sheep. [1] Owen Strachan, The Warrior Savior (Phillipsburg, NY: PR Publishing; 2024), 3. [2] Ibid., 6-7. [3] James A. Johnston, Preaching the Word: The Psalms: Rejoice, the Lord Is KingPsalms 1 to 41, ed. R. Kent Hughes, vol. 1, Preaching the Word (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2015), 251.

Marriage is one of the most significant relationships we will ever experience, shaping our lives more than any other. While there are countless resources and advice available on how to build a strong marriage, the most profound wisdom still comes from Gods original design in Scripture. In Genesis 2:24, we see the foundational principle: A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. This journey of two becoming one is not a moment but a lifelong processa marathon, not a sprint. Its a continual walk through mountains and valleys, joys and sorrows, as we learn to grow together in unity.

In Genesis 39, we see Joseph faced with intense temptation. He is alone, far from home, and seemingly without consequences. Yet Joseph refuses to compromise. He resists the seduction of Potiphar's wife, choosing to flee rather than fall. This sermon explores three biblical principles for resisting temptation: knowing God's standard ahead of time, not flirting with sin, and being willing to flee when necessary. But even for those that have given into temptation, there is mercy at the cross of The post Genesis 39 – Joseph and Temptation appeared first on Island Pond Baptist Church.

By Patrick McKee - In this sermon Patrick McKee looks at two temptations by Satan recorded in the Bible. In Genesis 3 we see his tempting Eve where he was successful. In Matthew 4 we see his attempt to temp Jesus where he failed. Patrick shows us that Eve failed because she followed the pattern in James 1:13-15 that

Sarah, the beloved wife of Abraham and matriarch of the covenant, dies at 127 years old. In Genesis 23, Abraham mourns and honors her life—not by returning to Mesopotamia, but by purchasing a burial site in the land of Canaan. His negotiation with the Hittites and acquisition of the cave of Machpelah marks more than a family burial—it's a faithful declaration that this land, promised by God, is truly home. This chapter may seem like a quiet interlude, but it resounds with themes of faith, permanence, and the future hope of resurrection.  The Rev. David Boisclair, senior pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 23.  To learn more about Our Redeemer Lutheran, visit www.ourredeemerstl.org. Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

What happens when a city no longer blushes at its own sin—when darkness becomes not just tolerated but celebrated? In Genesis 19, angels arrive in Sodom, and what follows is one of the most sobering accounts in all of Scripture. But it's not just a story of fire and brimstone—it's also about God, in His mercy, snatching the hesitant from judgment, and a God who saves even when His people falter. Yet, we're also given dire warnings about disobeying God's will.  The Rev. Kevin Yoakum, pastor of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Riverview, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study Genesis 19.  Genesis isn't just the start of the Bible; it's the foundation of everything. Creation, sin, judgment, grace, covenant, and promise all take root in this remarkable book. The stories are ancient, but their truths are eternal. In this new series from Thy Strong Word, Pastor Phil Booe and his guests walk verse by verse through Genesis, exploring how God reveals Himself as Creator, Judge, and Redeemer. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the struggles of ordinary families, Genesis introduces us to a God who speaks, acts, and keeps His promises. So, whether you've read it a hundred times or are just now cracking it open for a serious look, this series will help you see Genesis with fresh eyes—and a deeper faith. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

We continue our series about the Jewish foundations of the Christian faith. Your discussion questions this week are: Discussion Questions 1. What does the Hebrew word “Barukh” reveal about how God defines blessing? 2. In Genesis 12:1–3, what does it mean that “all peoples on earth will be blessed through” Abraham? How does Jesus fulfill that? 3. How does the way Jesus describes "blessed" people in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5) challenge our cultural view of what it means to live the good life? 4. How has the church historically misunderstood or mistreated the Jewish people? 5. Were you aware of how deeply antisemitism has been rooted in Christian history? How does that affect your perspective today? 6. Why is it important to remember that Jesus was Jewish—and how might that change the way we read the Bible? 7. What does it look like to “bless" the Jewish people in practical, everyday terms? 8. How can we stand against antisemitism in our own communities—both subtle and overt forms? 9. Is it possible to support the Jewish people and still speak critically about the actions of modern political Israel? How do we walk that line faithfully and lovingly? 10. Who in your life could you reach out to, listen to, or serve this week as a way of living out God's blessing?

In Genesis 25:19-26 the Jacob narrative begins. At the beginning of each story about a patriarch in Genesis we see some form of revelation from God that governs our understanding of the whole. What is the basic message of the Jacob narrative? Salvation is by grace alone according to God's inscrutable predestination.

In Genesis 22, Abraham is tested in a shocking way, yet he responds with faith: “We will worship and then we will come back.” When you're tested, will you trust that He will come through?

On today's Bible Answer Man broadcast (04/30/25), Hank answers the following questions:I am confused about Matthew 24:29, which talks about immediately after the tribulation, but in Matthew 24:31 refers to the trumpet call and the angels gathering the elect. Wouldn't this be the elect coming from heaven instead of Earth? James - Richmond, VA (0:48)How are we supposed to pray? What does it mean to pray “on Earth as it is in heaven”? Dawn - Layton, UT (5:06)In Genesis 6:1-4, are the “Sons of God” angels that had relations with the “daughters of men”? Oscar - Springdale, AR (8:48)I've struggled with sexual sin. A friend suggested that I am suffering from encounters with incubus and succubus demons. Are these real demonic beings? Darwin - St. Louis, MO (15:12)Is it ok to tithe to an organization instead of a church? Matt - Augusta, ME (17:55)Do you think that Scripture is designed in such a way that those who choose to reject it will find reason to do so? Joe - Robbinsville, NJ (21:06)Is the Seventh-day Adventist Church a cult, and do they line up with Galatians 1:7-9? Myron - Leland, NC (23:53)