Podcasts about in luke

In Luke 5:12–13, Jesus heals a man with advanced leprosy by reaching out and touching him — restoring not only his body but his dignity. This 2 Minute Disciple devotional invites us to let Jesus touch the “untouchable” places in our lives and to extend His love to others.

In Luke 12:19-20, the rich man said to himself, “You have plenty of good things laid up for many years.”...

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 In today's world, some even glorify sin, treating virtue as outdated or foolish.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

Welcome to Day 2804 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2804 – The Devil Never Made Him Do It – Luke 4:1-13 Putnam Church Message – 01/18/2026 Luke's Account of the Good News - “The Devil Never Made Him Do It.”    Last week investigated a prophet who was unmatched in all history, the forerunner of Jesus Christ, in a message titled “The Greatest Mortal Who Ever Died.” Today, we begin our study through the ministry of Jesus Christ in a message titled: “The Devil Never Made Him Do It.” Our Core verses for this week are Luke 4:1-13, found on page 1595 of your Pew Bibles. Follow along as I read. OPENING PRAYER Holy Father, we gather today in the name of Jesus, our victorious Savior. As we open Your Word, teach us to recognize temptation, to discern the lies of the enemy, and to cling to the truth that sets us free. Strengthen our hearts by Your Spirit, steady our minds by Your Scriptures, and shape our lives to reflect the obedience of Christ in the wilderness. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory, now and forever. Amen. Today, we come to a moment in Luke's Gospel that occurs quietly, without crowds, without choirs of angels, without disciples watching in awe. There are no miracles, no sermons, no parables, and no healings. Instead, there is silence, sand, hunger, and a solitary battle in the wilderness. It is here that Jesus faces the enemy of our souls in a way no other human ever has — and He triumphs. And He does so not by leaning on His divine authority, but by walking in obedience as a human filled with and yielded to the Holy Spirit. Our preaching text this morning comes from Luke 4:1–13 (NLT). Luke writes: “Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil for forty days. Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry.” (Luke 4:1–2) Luke wants us to see something right away: Jesus did not accidentally wander into temptation. He did not stumble into a spiritual ambush. He was led there. Led by whom? Led by the Spirit. And with that, Luke invites us into one of Scripture's most profound mysteries: God can lead His children into places of testing for the purpose of strengthening, purifying, and proving them. This is not new. Israel experienced the same. Moses reminded the people in Deuteronomy 8:2 (NLT): “Remember how the Lord your God led you through the wilderness for these forty years, humbling you and testing you…” Jesus is reliving the story of Israel — but where Israel failed, Jesus prevails.     Context: Between Baptism and Ministry Before we move further, we must notice the timing: Just before the wilderness comes the baptism. Just before the temptation comes the affirmation. Just before the war comes, the voice from heaven. In Luke 3, the heavens opened, the Spirit descended like a dove, and the Father declared: “You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy.” (3:22) Immediately after that, Jesus is taken to the desert. This pattern is familiar to anyone who has walked with God: Mountaintops are...

In Luke 23:34, Jesus prays, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” In His darkest moment, betrayed, beaten, mocked, and nailed to a cross, mercy came out.This message dives into a powerful truth: Pressure doesn't create what's inside you, it reveals it. And when the weight of the cross pressed Jesus, mercy was already there.

Hello, friend. Welcome back to another Encouraging Word.  In Luke 23 we read the account of Jesus appearing before Pilate, of Pilate finding no evidence to charge him, and the crowd demanding the release of another prisoner in exchange for Jesus. It's a remarkable—and literal—picture of what Christ has done for us. He who was blameless took the place of he who was condemned. 

In this episode, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb explore one of Scripture's most fascinating puzzles: the parable of the lost sheep appears in both Luke 15 and Matthew 18, yet teaches dramatically different lessons depending on its context. In Luke, it defends Christ's mission to seek the lost and exposes Pharisaic self-righteousness. In Matthew, it becomes a pastoral manual for church discipline, humility, and restoration. This conversation challenges the common assumption that parables have only one meaning and demonstrates how the same story can illuminate multiple theological truths. The hosts unpack the scandalous grace woven throughout both accounts while wrestling with practical implications for church life, confrontation, and the celebration of repentance within the covenant community. Key Takeaways Context transforms meaning: The parable of the lost sheep appears in both Luke 15 and Matthew 18 with similar wording but vastly different applications—proving that parables can have multiple valid meanings depending on their literary and theological context. Matthew 18's audience is internal: Unlike Luke 15, which addresses outsiders and critics, Matthew 18 speaks to disciples about life within the kingdom community—focusing on humility, care for "little ones," and the church's responsibility toward vulnerable or straying members. The parable sets up church discipline: In Matthew 18, the lost sheep parable (vv. 12-14) directly precedes and theologically grounds the church discipline passage (vv. 15-20), teaching that confrontation should be motivated by pastoral rescue, not punitive justice. "Little ones" matter to the Father: The phrase "little ones" refers to children, new believers, and those vulnerable within the church—Christ warns sternly against despising them and insists it is not the Father's will that any should perish (v. 14). Restoration is the goal, not excommunication: Verse 15's language of "gaining your brother" frames confrontation as recovery. Even final excommunication (v. 17) should be carried out with ongoing hope for repentance and return, not with triumphalism or relief. Christ's presence empowers difficult work: The promise that "where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them" (v. 20) is not a general prayer meeting verse—it's a specific assurance of Christ's authorizing presence during the judicial and painful work of church discipline. Divine intention shapes church posture: The statement "it is not the will of my Father...that one of these little ones should perish" (v. 14) must color every step of the discipline process, ensuring the church never loses sight of God's restorative heart. Explanatory Paragraphs Context Transforms Meaning One of the most significant insights from this episode is the recognition that the parable of the lost sheep serves distinct theological purposes in Luke 15 and Matthew 18. In Luke, Jesus tells the parable to Pharisees and scribes who criticize Him for welcoming sinners—the lost sheep represents those outside the covenant community whom Christ seeks. In Matthew, however, Jesus addresses His disciples within the context of kingdom life, and the lost sheep represents a believer who has wandered from the fold. This contextual shift demonstrates that parables are not rigid allegories with single meanings but flexible teaching tools that illuminate different facets of divine truth. The hosts argue that this reality should free interpreters from overly narrow readings and encourage careful attention to literary setting, audience, and surrounding discourse when seeking to understand Jesus' teaching. The Parable Sets Up Church Discipline In Matthew 18, the parable of the lost sheep (vv. 12-14) is not an isolated story but a theological foundation for the church discipline instructions that immediately follow (vv. 15-20). By emphasizing the shepherd's joy in recovering the one lost sheep and stating that it is not God's will for any "little one" to perish, Jesus prepares His disciples to approach confrontation with a restorative rather than punitive mindset. The language of "gaining your brother" (v. 15) echoes the recovery theme of the parable—confrontation is rescue, not victory. This connection is often missed because English Bible headings create visual breaks between verses 14 and 15, obscuring their flow. When read together without interruption, the passage reveals that every step of church discipline—from private conversation to final excommunication—must be undertaken with the Father's heart, which longs for the wanderer's return rather than their expulsion. Christ's Presence Empowers Difficult Work The promise in Matthew 18:20—"where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them"—is frequently misapplied as a general encouragement for small prayer groups or house churches. While Christ's omnipresence certainly validates such gatherings, the primary context of this verse is judicial and ecclesiastical. The "two or three" echoes the Old Testament requirement for multiple witnesses in matters requiring serious judgment (Deuteronomy 19:15), and the phrase appears at the climax of Jesus' teaching on church discipline. Christ is promising His authorizing presence specifically during the church's most difficult and painful work: confronting sin, evaluating repentance, and when necessary, declaring someone outside the visible church. This is both sobering and comforting—sobering because it reminds us that church discipline carries divine weight, and comforting because Christ does not leave His church alone in this weighty task but stands in the midst of the assembly, confirming its righteous judgments and sustaining its members through heartbreak. Memorable Quotes "This almost proves the idea that parables have one meaning just isn't really real...a single parable with the same words can have multiple, at the very least, can have multiple gradations of meaning." — Tony Arsenal "The scandal here is that it's not God's will that any one of these little ones should be lost. And that sometimes, I think, in the midst of great conflict feels scandalous." — Jesse Schwamb "Gaining your brother frames confrontation as rescue...discipline begins maybe actually all the way through as pastoral care. It's not public shaming." — Jesse Schwamb Full Transcript [The complete, unedited transcript of the episode would be included here for reference and accessibility.]

The Healing of a SinnerFebruary 22, 2026 • RD McClenagan • Luke 5:17–31Luke wrote his Gospel to Theophilus so he could move from partial knowledge about Jesus to deeper certainty, and in that sense Luke was written not to us but for us. Reading the Gospels is an invitation to encounter Jesus personally and be led from doubt into confident relationship with him. Discipleship is pictured as Jesus meeting us where we are and then steadily drawing us from the shallow end into deeper waters, often addressing deeper needs than we recognize. In Luke 5, friends lower a paralyzed man through a roof expecting physical healing, but Jesus first forgives his sins to show that the deepest healing is spiritual restoration with God. Jesus then heals the man's body to prove his authority to forgive, pointing ahead to the cross—like the lifted bronze serpent in Numbers 21 fulfilled in John 3—calling us to look to Christ not merely for relief but for heart renovation and life with God.WEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/

In Luke chapter 10, the Lord appointed seventy disciples and sent them ahead of Him into the places He would soon visit. We don't know their names, and Scripture is mostly silent about what became of them afterward, but the lessons from their mission are clear and searching. In this episode of Words of Grace, … Continue reading "Lessons from the Seventy"

Israel spent 400 years in Egypt. Even after God rescued them, Egypt was still in them.In Luke 5:15–16, Jesus models a different rhythm. As His popularity explodes and the crowds grow, He withdraws to the wilderness to pray.Why?Because the wilderness is not punishment. It's purification.God empties His people of Egypt and fills them with faith. And if Jesus needed time in the wilderness to resist the temptation to “skip the cross and take the crown,” how much more do we?If you are never intentionally emptied, you will be accidentally filled by the world.The wilderness is not where we retreat.The wilderness is where we get ready.---

Hello, friend. Welcome back to another Encouraging Word. In Luke 23 we read the account of Jesus appearing before Pilate, of Pilate finding no evidence to charge him, and the crowd demanding the release of another prisoner in exchange for Jesus. It's a remarkable—and literal—picture of what Christ has done for us. He who was blameless took the place of he who was condemned. 

In today's sermon at Flourishing Grace Church in Bountiful, Utah, Pastor Benjer teaches from Luke 19:45–20:8, a pivotal moment in Holy Week when Jesus enters Jerusalem, cleanses the temple, and then faces a public challenge from the chief priests, scribes, and elders: “By what authority do you do these things?” In the Court of the Gentiles, the one place intentionally set apart for non Jews and seekers to draw near to the God of Israel, worship had been crowded out. During Passover, Jerusalem swelled with travelers, animals, trading, and noise, and the leaders treated sacred space like it belonged to them. Jesus quotes the prophets to expose the deeper problem. Isaiah 56 shows God's heart for outsiders, foreigners, and outcasts, that God's house would be called a house of prayer for all peoples. Jeremiah 7 confronts the lie that religious activity can function like spiritual insurance, “the temple of the Lord” repeated like a mantra while injustice, oppression, and idolatry continue unchecked. When Jesus calls the temple a “den of robbers,” he is not only condemning corruption, he is revealing how the human heart turns religion into a safe house, a place to hide after we do what we want, instead of a place to meet the holy God who transforms us. This sermon is an invitation to let the Word of God do surgery beneath the surface. We can attend church, sing, confess, serve, join a table group, and even pray, yet still use those good gifts as cover for what is happening Monday through Saturday, how we treat our spouse, our coworkers, our neighbors, what we scroll, what we say, what we keep secret, and what we refuse to bring into the light. Pastor Benjer names three ways this shows up: first, “stuff it under the bed” Christianity, where everything looks tidy on the outside but the bins are packed with unresolved sin, hurt, and grief. Second, treating Sunday like a giant eraser, where we want the feeling of a reset without the healing of confession, repentance, and community. Third, loving church but never surrendering to Jesus, getting stuck at signposts like music, community, or routines, and missing the Person they are meant to point toward. In Luke 20, Jesus responds to the leaders by asking about John's baptism. It is not a dodge, it is a mirror. If John's ministry was from heaven, then Jesus' authority is from God. If it was merely from man, then the leaders can keep control. Their refusal to answer exposes a heart that fears people and protects power, and it warns us about the same impulse in our own lives. The good news is that Jesus does not discard God's promises because people misuse them. He fulfills them. He is greater than the temple, and all Scripture points to him. If you have been hurt by hypocrisy, disappointed by Christians, or tempted to conclude the gospel is not true, Jesus invites you to look at him, not at the failures of religious performance. As we worship, we want to make space for prayer, just like we did as a church this week during Ash Wednesday as we set aside time to sit with Jesus, open the Bible, and listen to the Holy Spirit. If you are not yet a follower of Jesus, today can be your day to say yes to Christ. If you are a believer but you know there are things underneath the surface that need honesty and healing, you are not alone.

What if the hardest parts of following Jesus are the parts we don't put in the pamphlet? In Luke 14, Jesus turns to a large crowd and delivers a message that would shrink most churches today. He doesn't promise comfort. He doesn't promise ease. Instead, He tells them to count the cost. In this sermon, Matthew Balentine walks through one of the most challenging teachings of Jesus: What does it mean to “hate” father and mother? Why does Jesus call us to carry our cross? What does counted-cost commitment look like? Why unfinished faith is more dangerous than we think How we subtly treat Jesus like an add-on instead of King Too often, we want our life… and Jesus. Our schedule… and Jesus. Our priorities… and Jesus. But Jesus doesn't accept a supporting role. He takes the throne. This message challenges us to examine whether we are worshiping the blessings more than the Blesser, whether we are following the crowd or surrendering fully, and whether Jesus truly holds first place in our lives. If you've ever wrestled with divided priorities, spiritual complacency, church hurt, or the real cost of commitment, this episode will push you toward deeper discipleship and lasting joy. Scripture: Luke 14:25–33 Speaker: Matthew Balentine Ninth Avenue Church of Christ Take inventory of your life. What are you holding on to that needs to be laid down?

In Luke 22:39-53, Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane and is betrayed by Judas. Pastor Christopher Feigles

In today's episode, we look at what it really means to build a life that stands. In Luke 6:46–49, Jesus confronts the danger of hearing His words without doing them. Then in 1 Corinthians 10:1–14, Paul reminds believers that spiritual privilege does not guarantee spiritual stability. You can have exposure to truth and still fall. You can hear the Word and still collapse. The difference is obedience. This episode is a sobering and encouraging reminder: storms will come—but only what is built on Christ through obedience will endure.

What kind of faith gets Heaven’s attention? In Luke 7, Jesus was amazed by a Roman centurion’s faith—not a religious leader, but a soldier who understood authority and believed Jesus could heal his servant with just a word... Notes The Roman soldier’s amazing faith got Heaven’s attention. Weak or strong, everyone has a form of faith. Read Luke 7:1–10 Luke 7:9When Jesus heard this, He was amazed. Turning to the crowd that was following Him, He said, "I tell you, I haven't seen faith like this in all Israel!" Everything about Jesus was amazing. Matthew 8:27They were amazed and said, "What kind of Man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey Him!" Luke 7:9When Jesus heard this, He was amazed. Roman centurions were significant people. This centurion somehow knew Jesus could heal his beloved servant. Sometimes non-believers have more faith than believers. The two disciples on the Emmaus Road summed it up, “We had hoped He was the One.” The non-believers remembered what Jesus said would happen after He died. Matthew 27:63We remember that while He was still alive that deceiver said, 'After three days I will rise again.' Where does sickness come from? Sickness and death were not part of God’s original plan for us. Romans 5:12Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned. Satan brought the afflictions in Job's life. God will, on occasion, allow sickness in our lives to keep us humble, to teach us lessons, and to prepare us for the future. #1 Natural healing is what God built into the human body. #2 There is supernatural healing too. There is a promise of healing in the book of Isaiah.(Isaiah 53:4–5) 1 Peter 2:24"He himself bore our sins" in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; "by His wounds you have been healed." Lay hold of this promise when you need His healing touch. Why are some of us still sick?One reason is simply a lack of asking.(James. 4:2) Mark 6:5–6And because of their unbelief, he couldn't do any miracles among them except to place his hands on a few sick people and heal them. And he was amazed at their unbelief. The people who knew Jesus best couldn’t see Him for who He really was. Hebrews 11:1Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. The safest place to put your faith is in God. Faith is belief plus action. Faith does things. Amazing faith is to be used, applied, and put through its paces. The Christian life is lived by and through faith. Faith can make the difference between something happening and not happening. God is the One who works.But He chooses to work through humans living by faith. Even death is not the end. Jesus said, “I am the living One. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever!I hold the keys of death and the grave.” The powerful centurion had rank, influence, and resources.The widow had nothing. The centurion reached out to Jesus.But Jesus reached out to the woman. Read Luke 7:11–17 Luke 7:13When the Lord saw her, His heart overflowed with compassion. "Don't cry!" He said. Jesus was deeply moved by the widow’s plight. Jonah knew the nature of God was to forgive. Jesus feels sorrow and compassion for those who have lost loved ones. We will see our loved ones who died in faith again. Paul uses the word “harpazō”, translated as “caught up.”(1 Thessalonians 4:16–17) The centurion demonstrated amazing faith. For the people of Nazareth, their familiarity bred contempt. The church is a dangerous place. Every time you hear the gospel and do not respond, your heart gets harder. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What kind of faith gets Heaven’s attention? In Luke 7, Jesus was amazed by a Roman centurion’s faith—not a religious leader, but a soldier who understood authority and believed Jesus could heal his servant with just a word... Notes The Roman soldier’s amazing faith got Heaven’s attention. Weak or strong, everyone has a form of faith. Read Luke 7:1–10 Luke 7:9When Jesus heard this, He was amazed. Turning to the crowd that was following Him, He said, "I tell you, I haven't seen faith like this in all Israel!" Everything about Jesus was amazing. Matthew 8:27They were amazed and said, "What kind of Man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey Him!" Luke 7:9When Jesus heard this, He was amazed. Roman centurions were significant people. This centurion somehow knew Jesus could heal his beloved servant. Sometimes non-believers have more faith than believers. The two disciples on the Emmaus Road summed it up, “We had hoped He was the One.” The non-believers remembered what Jesus said would happen after He died. Matthew 27:63We remember that while He was still alive that deceiver said, 'After three days I will rise again.' Where does sickness come from? Sickness and death were not part of God’s original plan for us. Romans 5:12Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned. Satan brought the afflictions in Job's life. God will, on occasion, allow sickness in our lives to keep us humble, to teach us lessons, and to prepare us for the future. #1 Natural healing is what God built into the human body. #2 There is supernatural healing too. There is a promise of healing in the book of Isaiah.(Isaiah 53:4–5) 1 Peter 2:24"He himself bore our sins" in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; "by His wounds you have been healed." Lay hold of this promise when you need His healing touch. Why are some of us still sick?One reason is simply a lack of asking.(James. 4:2) Mark 6:5–6And because of their unbelief, he couldn't do any miracles among them except to place his hands on a few sick people and heal them. And he was amazed at their unbelief. The people who knew Jesus best couldn’t see Him for who He really was. Hebrews 11:1Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. The safest place to put your faith is in God. Faith is belief plus action. Faith does things. Amazing faith is to be used, applied, and put through its paces. The Christian life is lived by and through faith. Faith can make the difference between something happening and not happening. God is the One who works.But He chooses to work through humans living by faith. Even death is not the end. Jesus said, “I am the living One. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever!I hold the keys of death and the grave.” The powerful centurion had rank, influence, and resources.The widow had nothing. The centurion reached out to Jesus.But Jesus reached out to the woman. Read Luke 7:11–17 Luke 7:13When the Lord saw her, His heart overflowed with compassion. "Don't cry!" He said. Jesus was deeply moved by the widow’s plight. Jonah knew the nature of God was to forgive. Jesus feels sorrow and compassion for those who have lost loved ones. We will see our loved ones who died in faith again. Paul uses the word “harpazō”, translated as “caught up.”(1 Thessalonians 4:16–17) The centurion demonstrated amazing faith. For the people of Nazareth, their familiarity bred contempt. The church is a dangerous place. Every time you hear the gospel and do not respond, your heart gets harder. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What makes Jesus the most compelling person in history? In Luke 4:31–44, we see a powerful snapshot of one day in the life of Jesus. He teaches with authority, confronts spiritual darkness, heals the sick, and then steps away to refocus on His mission. His power is unmatched, but what makes Him truly compelling is how He uses that power with compassion and purpose. This message explores the authority of Jesus, the heart of Jesus, and the mission of Jesus. It invites us to stop carrying what we cannot control and trust the One who brings order to chaos.• Jesus has authority over spiritual darkness, sickness, and the chaos we cannot control• His power is always paired with personal compassion for the hurting and overlooked• He models a life of purpose by stepping away to pray, refocus, and reengage the missionKey Scriptures:Luke 4:31–44Isaiah 61:1–2Hebrews 1:3John 10:10Do you know the power of Jesus in your own life, or are you still trying to manage everything on your own? Take a moment this week to come honestly before Him and ask for the healing and help only He can provide. If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs to be reminded that Jesus still brings order to chaos.Bayou City Fellowship Spring Branch Campus | Kevin Barra | February 22, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

What does it actually look like to surrender everything to Jesus? In Luke 4:31–44, we see Jesus teach with authority, command spiritual freedom, bring physical healing, and remain unwaveringly committed to the Father's purpose. The question is not just what Jesus does, but how we respond. This message walks through what it means to submit to His authority, bring our needs to Him, and learn to say no to good things so we can say yes to God's best. If you've ever wrestled with control, comfort, people-pleasing, or holding something back from God, this message is for you.• Jesus teaches and commands with true authority over both the spiritual and physical realms• We are invited to bring our spiritual and physical needs to Him in faith• Following Jesus means surrendering fully and saying no to lesser things for God's greater purposeKey Scriptures:Luke 4:31–44Matthew 5:43–44John 14:6Hebrews 1:3What is one good thing in your life that God may be asking you to lay down so you can fully say yes to Him? Take time this week to ask that question honestly. If this message encouraged or challenged you, share it with a friend or family member who needs to hear it.Bayou City Fellowship Cypress Campus | Jeremiah Meadows | February 22, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

What does it really mean that Jesus has all authority? And what does that mean for your life? In Luke 4:31–41, we see Jesus teach with authority, confront evil, heal the sick, and draw near to the outcast. His power is undeniable, but it is never harsh or self-serving. It is authority used to set people free. This message walks through how Jesus' kingship is not meant to control you, but to heal you from the inside out and invite you into real life. If you have ever wrestled with control, questioned who is really in charge of your life, or wondered whether Jesus is just a teacher or truly Lord, this message is for you.• Jesus speaks with unmatched authority because He is the author and fulfillment of Scripture• His power is used to confront evil, heal the hurting, and restore the outsider• His authority ultimately addresses our deepest need: forgiveness and heart transformationKey Scriptures:Luke 4:31–44Colossians 1:15–18Isaiah 6:1–7John 10:17–18Will you keep one foot in and one foot out, or will you surrender fully to the King who laid down His life for you? Take a moment this week to invite Jesus to reorder your life and trust His authority in the areas you have been holding back. If this message encouraged you, share it with a friend or family member who needs hope and healing.Bayou City Fellowship Tomball Campus | Cole Ellerbrock | February 22, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

In Luke 17:1–10, Allyn Anderson challenges us to consider who we are becoming as followers of Jesus, emphasizing the seriousness of our influence on others and the importance of self-watchfulness in community. Jesus calls us to faithful obedience marked by repentance, forgiveness, and small acts of faith that shape us over time. Ultimately, obedience is not about earning God's favor but about surrendering humbly to Him as a natural response to His grace.OUTLINE:Jesus's warningCommunityFaithful ObedienceSurrenderQUESTIONS:(Luke 17: 1-2) Jesus says temptations are inevitable, but woe to the one who causes others to stumble. What does this reveal about how seriously Jesus takes our influence on others? How might recognizing the weight of our impact reshape the way we relate to people in community?(Luke 17: 3) Before addressing others, Jesus calls us to “self-watchfulness”, reminding us that we are constantly being formed by our words, thoughts, actions, habits, and choices. Right now, how would you honestly answer the question, “Who am I becoming?” In what ways are you currently being deformed by sin, and in what ways are you being transformed by Jesus?(Luke 17: 3-4) Jesus commands rebuke, repentance, and repeated forgiveness. How does this relational rhythm confront our natural tendencies either to attack or to withdraw in relationships? In what ways could consistently practicing honest confrontation, genuine repentance, and costly forgiveness reshape both your own soul and the culture of your community?(Luke 17: 5-6) When the disciples ask for increased faith, Jesus points to faith as small as a mustard seed. What does this teach about the connection between faith and daily obedience? How might small, simple acts of obedience form you more deeply over time than waiting for dramatic spiritual breakthroughs?(Luke 17: 7-10) Jesus concludes with the image of the unworthy servant who has only done his duty. How does this reframe obedience—not as a way to earn God's favor, but as the fitting response to a loving, good, and gracious Creator? How might embracing this posture of surrender cultivate humility, freedom, and deeper joy in following Jesus?SCRIPTURE REFERENCE:Luke 17:1-10

The prodigal son        In Luke 15, Jesus answers the grumbling of the Pharisees—“This man welcomes sinners and eats with them”—with three parables that reveal the Father's pursuing love: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son. Through these stories, we see that God recovers those who can't find their way back, those who don't even know they're lost, and even those who have chosen rebellion. The climax in the prodigal son shows mercy running faster than shame, restoring sonship before condemnation can speak. The sermon calls the church to resist self-righteous, transactional religion and instead become Spirit-shaped people who “love mercy,” rejoicing when the lost are found and welcoming others the way Jesus welcomed us. (Luke 15; Micah 6:8)    

Luke 2:22-38 |What are you ultimately waiting for with eager anticipation? We may eagerly anticipate many good things, but only one can be ultimate: the day our faith becomes sight. The day we see our Savior face to face. In Luke 2 we are introduced to Simeon and Anna, two aged saints waiting and longing for their faith to become sight. Though we now live between the two comings of Christ, we can learn much from these two saints about what it looks like to wait and worship until our faith becomes sight.

What if your empty nets are actually an invitation to something greater? In Luke 5, Jesus steps into Peter's boat after a frustrating night of failed fishing, challenging this experienced fisherman to venture into deeper waters. Pastor Blake reveals how this pivotal moment wasn't just about fish—it was about transforming an ordinary worker into an extraordinary disciple. Through powerful insights about moving from comfort to calling, this message speaks to anyone feeling successful yet unfulfilled. Discover how surrendering your expertise to Jesus' leadership can fill not just your nets, but your life with unexpected purpose. Don't miss this compelling exploration of what happens when we dare to push past the shallows of comfort into the deep waters of faith.

Who is my neighbor? The bad drivers? The loud neighbors? The annoying coworker? Surely not those people. In Luke 10:25–37 Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan and what He says will confront your heart in the best (and hardest) way. Most people think this story is just a moral lesson about "being nice." But for the original audience, Jesus' words were a scandal. By making a Samaritan the hero, Jesus wasn't just giving a lesson on kindness; He was dismantling our excuses for who we choose not to love. The real question isn't who is my neighbor but what kind of neighbor are you? Are you the priest, the Levite, or the Samaritan? This story begs us to see people as God does, to move toward people the way Jesus, our compassionate Savior, moves toward us. In this message on the Good Samaritan, we explore: • Why we instinctively try to justify ourselves • How Jesus exposes our self-righteousness with grace • The shocking twist in the Good Samaritan story • How Jesus is the true Good Samaritan we desperately need • What it actually looks like to love people who are different, difficult, or even offensive to us Watch and let Jesus change your heart. If this message challenges or encourages you, be sure to:

First Sunday of Lent Sermon Series: 40 Days of Growth  Sermon: TemptationScripture: Luke 4:1-13Lent begins not in comfort, but in the wilderness. Before Jesus teaches, heals, or calls disciples, he is led into a place of testing. Hungry. Alone. Tempted. In Luke 4:1–13, we see that temptation isn't just about dramatic choices—it's about subtle compromises, shortcuts, and the quiet pull to trust ourselves instead of God.In this Sunday's sermon, “Temptation,” we begin our new series 40 Days of Growth by exploring what it means to face the wilderness honestly. Jesus shows us that temptation often meets us at our weakest points—when we're tired, anxious, or wanting quick relief. Yet he also shows us how to stand firm, grounded in God's Word and God's promises.Join us as we begin the Lenten journey together, learning how even seasons of testing can become seasons of growth.Worship Schedule 8:45am: Contemporary Service10am: Sunday School11am: Traditional Service

In Luke 3, when baptizing in the wilderness, John addressed those coming to him as a brood of vipers; especially those who had no intention of repenting of their sins. Religious ritual without the intention of a behavior change is futile. True repentance is measured by the fruit that it produces.

In Luke 4:42–44, Jesus leaves the comfort of one town to preach the Good News elsewhere, staying true to His mission. This 2 Minute Disciple devotional challenges us to step beyond what's familiar to follow God's call.

In Luke 19:1-10, we see that Jesus sovereignly seeks the lost and produces genuine repentance that results in joyful restoration. I. A lost man seeks to see Jesus. (vv. 1-4) II. The Savior seeks the sinner. (vv. 5-7) III. Saving grace produces visible repentance. (v.8) IV. The Son of Man declares His saving mission. (vv. 9-10)

In Luke 7, a Roman centurion (an outsider to Israel's covenant) demonstrates a level of faith that causes Jesus to marvel. “I have not found so great faith, not even in Israel.”What made his faith so extraordinary? And how can we build that same unshakable confidence in Christ today?In this episode, we explore how hearing the Word, walking in obedience, living in humility, and trusting the authority of Jesus can develop the kind of faith that still moves Heaven.Unshakable faith isn't reserved for insiders, it's available to anyone willing to believe.

In Luke 6:12–36, Jesus forms a people for his kingdom and then teaches them how kingdom life works. As Children of the Most High our lives should resemble the love and mercy we've received from God our Father. As Christians, Jesus commands us to love our enemies, bless others, pray for those who have hurt us and give freely without demanding payback. Tune into this week's message and discover how you too can live with mercy and compassion that mirrors the mercy God has shown you in Christ.

What if following God meant leaving everything comfortable behind? In Luke 5, Jesus calls ordinary fishermen, and they walk away from their boats, their income, their security. We love the idea of purpose... We don't love the cost, but sometimes faith isn't about clarity, it's about surrender.

Have you ever felt so far gone in rebellion, failure, or shame that returning to God—or to anyone—seems impossible, or wondered why the church sometimes feels like the last place offering true forgiveness? In Luke 15:11-32, Pastor Ben examines Jesus' parable of the prodigal son, where a rebellious younger son squanders his inheritance in reckless living, hits rock bottom feeding pigs, and returns home expecting only servitude—yet encounters a father who runs to embrace him, restores him fully with robe, ring, and feast, declaring him alive and found. The sermon shows that God's grace is unconditional love that neither increases with our performance nor decreases with our sin; it cost the Father everything at the cross and offers forgiveness freely to the undeserving. Recognize your own rebellion or self-righteous striving, receive God's extravagant grace without earning it, and extend that same unmerited forgiveness and compassion to others who need it most.Eastland is a Place to BelongEastland Baptist Church is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We are a welcoming and close-knit family community that loves to care for each other through the Church. We strongly believe in loving and supporting each other and our neighbors. Our members don't just attend our Church; they feel a strong sense of belonging.Join UsFind service times and our location at https://www.eastlandbaptist.org/join.Connect with UsWebsite: https://www.eastlandbaptist.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/eastlandbaptisttulsaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eastlandbaptistTo support the ministry of Eastland Baptist Church, tap here: https://www.eastlandbaptist.org/give

Today's Sponsor: The Go BibleHave you ever told Jesus, “I'll follow you”… but deep down knew there were conditions?In Luke 9, Jesus encounters three men who all say they want to follow Him. One is overly excited but hasn't counted the cost. One delays, waiting for a more convenient time. And one wants Jesus—but still keeps looking back.Each one is close. But none fully surrender.In this message, we explore the uncomfortable truth about discipleship: following Jesus will cost you everything. Not because He wants to harm you—but because He wants to heal you, transform you, and make you fully alive.Jesus isn't looking for momentary excitement. He's looking for faithful disciples who are all in.This message will challenge you to ask:• Have I counted the cost?• Am I delaying obedience?• Am I still looking back at my old life?• Or am I fully surrendered?The greatest tragedy isn't rejecting Jesus outright. It's almost following Him your entire life.Scripture: Luke 9:57–62

We don't always respond to God the way we should. In Luke 17:11–19, Jesus meets messy, imperfect people with unshakable mercy. Join us as we hear good news for ordinary, inconsistent hearts.Recorded live at Word of Life Church in Le Sueur, Minnesota, on Sunday, February 15, 2026, Pastor Nick Olson preaching.

What if the wilderness wasn't just a place of temptation, but a proving ground for purpose? In Luke 4, Pastor Blake reveals how Jesus faced the same core questions we wrestle with daily: Am I loved? Does my life matter? Can I trust God with my future? Through Jesus' example, we discover that our deepest struggles become platforms for His power when we let His Word define our identity, shape our expectations, and direct our steps. Ready to move from doubt to destiny? Watch this transformative message about finding victory in life's wilderness moments through Christ's example and truth.

In Luke 2:41-52, we see a glimpse into Jesus' youth. Matt Sanders teaches us how this seemingly small passage gives us insight into how God moves in the ordinary.

In Luke 4:31–37, Jesus demonstrates His authority over evil spirits, setting a man free with a single command. This 2 Minute Disciple devotional reminds us that the same authority is at work in our lives today.

Why didn't Jesus perform many miracles in His hometown? In Luke 4, Jesus announces His mission and clearly defines what His ministry is about. Yet the very people who knew Him best struggled to believe Him. Their unbelief kept them from receiving what He came to give. Before we can do Jesus' ministry, we must first receive it. This message challenges us to move beyond pride, presumption, and spiritual self-sufficiency so we can experience the freedom, healing, and grace He offers.• Jesus' ministry is good news for the spiritually poor, captive, blind, and broken• Unbelief, pride, and familiarity can keep us from receiving what God wants to do• We must receive Jesus' ministry personally before we can serve others effectivelyKey Scriptures:Luke 4:14–30Isaiah 61:1–2Mark 6:52 Corinthians 6:2Revelation 3:17–20Where do you need Jesus' ministry today? And where is He calling you to share it with someone else? Admit your need, trust Him fully, and let His grace overflow into action. If this message encouraged you, share it with a friend or family member who needs hope and a fresh start.Bayou City Fellowship Tomball Campus | Allan McBrayer | February 15, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

In Luke 4, Jesus returns to His hometown and clearly declares who He is. He reads from Isaiah and announces that He is the promised Messiah sent to bring freedom, healing, and forgiveness. At first, the crowd is impressed. But when Jesus refuses to fit their expectations and reminds them that God's grace is for outsiders too, admiration turns into anger. This message challenges us to wrestle with a crucial question: Are we truly following Jesus, or are we trying to make Him follow us? When Jesus doesn't perform on command, doesn't stay in our box, or challenges our assumptions, how do we respond?• Jesus reveals Himself as the Spirit-anointed Messiah who brings freedom, healing, and forgiveness• Familiarity and personal expectations can blind us to who Jesus really is• Every person must choose a response: bow in faith or reject His authorityKey Scriptures:Luke 4:14–30Isaiah 61:1–2Joshua 5:13–15Where has Jesus challenged your expectations? Have you made Him too familiar, too small, or too manageable? This week, ask yourself: Am I letting Jesus lead, or am I trying to control the outcome? If this message helped you see Jesus more clearly, share it with a friend or family member who needs to wrestle with who He truly is.Bayou City Fellowship Spring Branch Campus | Kevin Barra | February 15, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

What happens when Jesus doesn't fit our expectations? In Luke 4, Jesus delivers what could be called His manifesto in His hometown of Nazareth. The crowd begins amazed and ends enraged. Why? In this message, we explore why Jesus' words about spiritual poverty, freedom, and God's grace for all nations stirred such intense rejection. His mission wasn't just for one group. It was for the poor in spirit, the captive, the blind, and the oppressed everywhere. And that same mission continues today.• Jesus defines His mission: good news for the spiritually poor, freedom for the captive, sight for the blind• The danger of expecting a Messiah who serves our agenda instead of surrendering to His• God's grace extends beyond borders, calling us to care about the unreachedKey Scriptures:Luke 4:14–30Isaiah 61:1–21 Kings 17:8–162 Kings 5:1–14If Jesus challenged your expectations today, don't ignore it. Ask God to reveal where you may be resisting His truth and to give you a heart for the nations. Share this message with a friend or family member who needs to hear that the gospel is for everyone.Bayou City Fellowship Cypress Campus | George Terry | February 15, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

In Luke 5:12–14, Jesus does the unthinkable—He touches a leper.Leprosy wasn't treated as a sickness. It was treated as death. Isolation. Exile. Shame. The living dead.But when this man falls before Jesus and says, “If you are willing…,” Jesus responds with both power and compassion: “I am willing.” And immediately, everything changes.This message reveals the Kingdom Way—Jesus doesn't just restore people FROM death. He restores them TO community. Grace brings us back to life, and it brings us back home.

Christians often say God is “all-powerful,” but what do we really mean by that? In the deep ache of suffering and loss, God's omnipotence can feel confusing or even troubling. If God is good and all-powerful, why is there death, pain, and evil? In Luke 7:11–17, we see Jesus arrive in a town whose name means pleasant—only to encounter the most unpleasant reality imaginable: death. A widow has lost her only son, leaving her utterly vulnerable and without hope. What follows is a stunning display of Jesus' power. This passage shows us what God's power is like, how it works, and—most importantly—who it is for.

In Luke 6, Jesus teaches us the secrets to money freedom. Most people are enslaved to their finances. Learn how you can find freedom today.

In Luke 8, we find an uncontrolled, unhoused, and unclothed man causing chaos in the community. His life is marked by chaos and bondage. But when he meets Jesus, everything changes. The man who was tormented becomes calm. The one who was isolated is restored. The one who was naked is clothed and “in his right mind.”Yet the most surprising part of the story isn't just his transformation—it's his commission. When the healed man begs to follow Jesus, Jesus sends him back home instead. “Go back and tell how much God has done for you.”His testimony becomes the tool Jesus uses to reach that entire region.Today, we'll discover that the same calling rests on us: to go home, to our people, to our communities—and tell the story of what Jesus has done in our lives.Welcome to Antioch Georgetown! We are a church in Georgetown, TX, and our mission is simple--We lead people to follow Christ in a life-changing way.Get Connected:

Feeling unloved or unworthy doesn't change the truth of who God says you are.

In Luke 14:28, readers are wisely reminded to count the cost. With the average age of a first-time homebuyer now approaching 40, many are wondering whether the right time to buy is now or if renting is still the best option. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West explores some common misunderstandings and explains how to approach homeownership with wisdom and patience. Then, it’s on to your calls. That’s Faith & Finance Live—where biblical wisdom meets today’s financial decisions—weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Temptation is not a sign of failure. It is part of the Christian journey. In Luke 4, Jesus enters the wilderness and faces real temptation, not by accident, but by design. This passage shows us how the enemy works, why temptation often comes after spiritual highs, and how God uses the wilderness to form us. Jesus shows us how to stand firm, not by shortcuts or self-reliance, but by trusting the Father and grounding our lives in truth.• The wilderness is not wasted. God uses it to refine and shape us• Every temptation is an attack on identity and trust, not just behavior• Victory comes from remembering who you are and what God has saidKey Scriptures:Luke 4:1–13Deuteronomy 6–8Hebrews 4:15–161 John 3:8Romans 7Challenge yourself this week to pay attention to the lies you're tempted to believe and respond by remembering your God-given identity in Christ. Share this message with someone who may be walking through a season of temptation or discouragement.Bayou City Fellowship Cypress Campus | Cole Ellerbrock | February 8, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

What does it actually look like to live as a true son or daughter of God? In Luke 4, Jesus enters the wilderness and faces real temptation, not just to sin, but to misuse His identity, power, and calling. This passage shows us that true sonship isn't about leveraging God for our benefit, but trusting Him fully and aligning our lives with His purposes. His example challenges us to examine what is truly driving our decisions at work, at home, and in everyday life.• True sonship puts God's purpose above personal provision• True sonship worships and glorifies God alone, not the world or self• True sonship trusts God by following Him, not testing His promisesKey Scriptures:Luke 4:1–13Deuteronomy 6–8Matthew 6:31–33Galatians 6:14Psalm 91Challenge yourself this week to ask what is shaping your decisions: comfort, provision, recognition, or trust in God. Where is God calling you to move forward in faith instead of waiting for proof? Share this message with someone who may be wrestling with purpose, identity, or trust.Bayou City Fellowship Spring Branch Campus | Keith Bower | February 8, 2026https://linktr.ee/bayoucityfellowship

Do we matter? We fear we don't. In Luke 12:6 Jesus says, “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies?...