Podcasts about in mark

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Numbers 30-31; Mark 9 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible for March 2nd, 2026! On this sixty-first day of our journey through the Bible, Hunter guides us into the heart of scripture, reading from Numbers chapters 30 and 31, and Mark chapter 9. Today's passages explore the nature of vows, the consequences of agreements, and the fierce battle against the Midianites. In the Gospel of Mark, we witness Jesus' transfiguration on the mountain, a dramatic healing, and powerful teachings about faith, humility, and combating sin. Hunter draws thoughtful connections between Old Testament laws and Jesus' words, showing how our need for freedom from sin is met by going to the Father and confessing our burdens. The episode is wrapped with heartfelt prayers for the listeners, encouragement to be instruments of peace, and reminders of God's unwavering love. Stay tuned for reflections, community shoutouts from Michael McClatcher, and invitations to join this growing circle of faith. Whether you're new or a regular, today's journey invites you to experience grace, hope, and belonging at the heart of God's word. TODAY'S DEVOTION: He frees us from the agreements of sin. In Numbers 30, scripture starts with instructions that might seem obscure. There's guidance about vows and how a married woman or an unmarried daughter might be released from a binding agreement—by bringing it to her father or husband, who could nullify it if they did not approve. It was simple: freedom from obligation came through someone in authority. In Mark 9, Jesus confronts sin with equally strong language. He says, "If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off." He isn't advocating literal amputation, but rather using powerful words to emphasize the seriousness of sin's grip. Sin, Jesus shows us, operates like a contract, a vow—an insidious agreement between ourselves and the parts of us that are prone to wander. Sin says to the hand, "Do this and I'll reward you with that." Sin bargains with the eye, "Look here and you'll gain something." We make these agreements, often without realizing, and they bind us. But severing limbs is not the answer. The answer is severing the vows and contracts we have unwittingly made with sin. And the way to do that is the way shown in Numbers 30: we bring our vow to the Father. We confess to Him the promise, the contract that is ruining our lives—and He, our good Father, is the one with the authority to nullify it. He breaks the contract. He releases us from sin's power and control. This is not about magic words; it's about what God has done in sending His Son. Jesus paid the price for our sin. He met the demands of the agreement, and He alone has the power to free us from the bonds we've created. He is the one who can tie those deceitful contracts to a millstone and throw them into the sea. Are you trapped in the grip of sin? Take every agreement you've made—all the bargains, all the lies—and bring them to your Father. Confess them. Your confession doesn't change God's attitude toward you; it changes you. It wipes your eyes clear to the truth of your being: that you belong to Him. Regardless of sins committed, God will never cease to be your Father. He has united Himself with us once and for all through Jesus Christ—His incarnation, death, resurrection, ascension. Jesus has defeated sin, death, and the grave. Sin blinds our eyes to the reality that we are swept up into something new, but confession is our way of seeing again. On the cross, Jesus broke the power of every agreement. Let us return to the Father and remember who we are in the Son—free, alive, hopeful, and full of love. That's the prayer that I have for my own soul. That's the prayer that I have for my family, for my wife and my daughters and my son. And that's the prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

What if one of the most common questions about Christianity is also one of the most misunderstood? In Mark 14:12–25, we step into one of the most significant nights in history; a private dinner that changed everything. What Jesus said and did in that room still shapes millions of lives today. In this message we will discover that Baptism is not about earning salvation. It's about obedience. We will be encouraged to build our faith on surrender, rather than technicalities and we will learn that Jesus doesn't just forgive our sin, He gives us a brand new identity. This message tackles the tension many of us quietly wrestle with; that gap between belief and obedience. Between cultural Christianity and real surrender. Between technicalities… and transformation. Pastor Kevin Queen helps us see that this isn’t about two ancient rituals, it’s a question of whether we are building our faith on loopholes, or trust. – – – – – – To learn more about baptism or take your next step: crosspoint.tv/baptism. If this message encouraged you, let us know in the comments, share it with someone, and subscribe for more messages! Join us at Cross Point in Middle Tennessee. Find a campus near you: crosspoint.tv/locations

In Mark chapter 4, we shift from rapid action into Jesus’ teaching—especially through parables, stories that place a familiar picture beside a spiritual truth and invite us to wrestle with what God is saying. This chapter is full of abundance language, which is why I’m calling it “How to Be Wealthy.” Jesus begins with the parable of the sower, and then He explains what it means: the seed is the Word of God, and the “soil” is what happens inside a person as they hear it. We see four outcomes—seed snatched away, seed that sprouts fast but has no root, seed choked by worries and wealth and desires, and seed that lands in good soil and multiplies. The invitation isn’t Bible trivia; it’s transformation. Jesus is showing us that true wealth is the abundance of God’s kingdom—a rich life marked by fruit, freedom, and spiritual growth. And the question becomes deeply personal: what is choking the Word in me—and how can I cultivate good soil so the Word can take root and produce? What We Cover: Parables require attention: Jesus teaches in stories to invite curiosity, openness, and deeper engagement—not passive listening. The seed is the Word: the central issue is what happens to God’s Word inside a person over time. The threat isn’t always “bad things”: worry, wealth’s deception, and competing desires can quietly choke what God is growing. Fruitfulness is connected to reception: hearing isn’t the same as accepting—accepting the Word involves repentance, turning, and letting truth reshape reality. Abundance is God’s work: you cultivate depth; God brings the multiplication. A rich life is kingdom-rich: wealth is redefined as a life full of God’s presence, freedom, love, and fruit—not merely money or influence. A practical diagnostic: identify what consistently chokes the Word in you, and remove or limit it so your heart can become good soil. Resources mentioned: Check out Nicole's website and subscribe to her weekly newsletter: https://nicoleunice.kit.com/ Nicole’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/nicoleunice Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Pharisees weren't policing hygiene—they were policing holiness by human standards. In Mark 7, Jesus exposes how religion can drift into legalism: obsessing over external performance while the heart grows cold, empty, and hypocritical. This episode calls us back to grace-driven obedience—and a unity rooted in God's Word, not man-made rules.

Series: OtherService: You Are From GodType: You Are From GodSpeaker: Scott Taylor & Tyler HallIn this week's episode we discuss the heavy moments of Jesus' death and resurrection. In Mark 15 & 16 we run into a wide range of responses to the man that Jesus was and is. Many ridicule him and mock him, some simply do not understand the weight of what is happening, and others are compelled to honor him. While reading these passages we feel the weight of our sin, but also the love that Jesus has for us that caused him to remain on the cross. We get to decide how we respond to that love because Jesus showed…

How do you handle entitled thoughts when they appear? In Mark 9, we see an example of how Jesus shows how to deal with entitled thoughts. Jesus identifies the thought, informs the thought, then impacts the thought. We may not always think of entitled thoughts as something we wrestle with, but they are important to address when renewing our minds. Entitled thinking can look like thoughts of, “I deserve better than what I'm getting.” These kind of thoughts will drift you further from Jesus more than any other kind of thoughts, and can be dangerous when we are blind to seeing it in ourselves. Jesus said in Mark 9, “If anyone desires to be first, he will be last.” Remember ✍️ 1: You cannot access greatness without its Author. 2: Combat entitled thinking by caring for the parts of the world in need. Stay tuned for a brand new series next week!

This week on Consider This, Justin Ebert sits down with Ryan Vincent and Drew Henderson to explore Numbers 21–36 and Mark 7–8. From the bronze serpent and Balaam's troubling story to the purpose of the cities of refuge, we unpack the theology and tension of Israel's journey. In Mark, we wrestle with Jesus' warnings about tradition and the heart, Jesus' gradual healing, and what it really means to take up our cross.

When was the last time you were overwhelmed with wonder? In Mark 9, the crowd didn’t hesitate when they saw Jesus. They ran toward Him — filled with awe. No overthinking. No self-conscious restraint. Just pure wonder. Somewhere between deadlines, responsibilities, and routines, it’s easy to lose that sense of awe. Life shrinks to the size of a to-do list. Faith becomes familiar. And wonder quietly fades into the background. But Jesus hasn’t stopped working. In this episode, we rediscover how slowing down, paying attention, and expecting Jesus to move can awaken a fresh sense of wonder in our everyday lives. What We Discuss How busyness dulls spiritual awareness Why wonder is not a luxury — it’s fuel for faith The difference between dramatic miracles and everyday miracles How expectation shapes what we notice Practical habits that help us stay spiritually attentive Why wonder naturally draws us closer to Jesus This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Let Jesus Overwhelm You with WonderBy: Whitney Hopler Bible Reading:“As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet him.” - Mark 9:15, NIV When you really look at Jesus, you see the wonder of God’s work in this world. In Mark 9:15, people caught a glimpse of Jesus, and they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet him. They didn’t hesitate or worry about what others might say about their enthusiastic response. They simply let themselves be inspired with awe when they encountered Jesus. It’s easy to lose a sense of wonder when you’re dealing with the stress of living in this fallen world. Responsibilities pile up and demand your attention. You get used to going through your routine, doing what needs to be done. You may be working so hard that you start to think about enjoying wonder as a luxury you can’t afford with your busy schedule. If so, your life will shrink down to the level of your to-do list. You’ll miss the greater perspective of the wonderful work Jesus is doing around you. Don’t let that happen to you! Jesus hasn’t stopped working in amazing ways, just like he did during biblical times. Jesus is still inspiring people with awe on a regular basis. The question is: are you looking for him? Wonder doesn’t always appear with dramatic miracles. Often, wonder happens through everyday miracles. You can find wonder in quiet yet powerful ways, like through a colorful sunset, someone’s act of kindness, or a sense of peace God gives you during a challenging situation. Jesus is already doing wonderful work in your life. You just have to slow down long enough to notice. When the crowd in Mark chapter 9 saw Jesus, they recognized him because they were paying attention. They had focused minds and open hearts that helped them expect the best from Jesus. The process of discovering wonder often starts with expecting Jesus to do something wonderful in your life. Imagine walking into each day with your eyes wide open, asking Jesus to show you what he wants to show you. If you start doing that, you’ll start noticing all sorts of wonder in your life that you’d previously overlooked. Then, you’ll wake up to the wonder of who Jesus really is. You’ll realize that Jesus is so amazing that you can’t help but be inspired to worship him. The more you notice Jesus and let him overwhelm you with wonder, the more you’ll want to run to him, just like the people in Mark 9:15 did. Wonder draws you close to Jesus! So, give yourself the time and attention you need to really look for the wonder of Jesus’ work in your life every day. Make your relationship with Jesus a top priority in your daily schedule. Stay connected to Jesus throughout each day by checking in with him regularly through prayer. Ask Jesus to help you notice what he’s doing in every single part of your life – including areas where you haven’t expected him to show up much before. Pray for Jesus to give you a fresh perspective, so your senses aren’t dulled by routine or weighed down by busyness. When you do see Jesus at work, let yourself enjoy it. Take the time to really reflect on it, and celebrate it! Let your encounters with Jesus’ wonder strengthen your faith. Wonder doesn’t just make you feel good; it draws you deeper into a relationship with Jesus. It reminds you that Jesus is with you right here and now, working in your life in ways that accomplish good purposes for you. This day – this ordinary day, with all of its stressful situations – is still full of opportunities to see Jesus. You just have to look. The more you look, the more you’ll realize that Jesus has been there all along. Let Jesus overwhelm you with wonder again. When you do, you’ll find yourself wanting to run toward him! Intersecting Faith & Life: As you consider how to let Jesus overwhelm you with wonder, reflect on these questions: When was the last time you felt truly overwhelmed with wonder at what Jesus was doing in your life? What daily habits can help you slow down, pay attention more, and notice Jesus more often? Are there any areas of your life where you’ve stopped expecting Jesus to show up? If so, how can you start expecting the best instead of the worst in those areas? How would your perspective change if you started each day by asking Jesus to help you be more aware of his presence with you throughout your day? Further Reading:Psalm 65:8Psalm 77:14Psalm 145:5Job 37:14Jeremiah 29:13 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In a quiet garden under crushing pressure, the fate of humanity hangs in the balance. In Mark 14:32–42, Jesus enters Gethsemane—the place of the oil press—where the Second Adam submits fully to the Father's will and accepts the cup of judgment meant for us. This week, Pastor Korey walks through the agony, obedience, and love of Christ, showing that our redemption rests not on human strength, but on the faithful obedience of the Son.

Our culture says the only failure in life is not trying—but Jesus defines success differently. In Mark 7:1–13, He challenges the Pharisees' empty traditions and reminds us that God isn't impressed by performance, but by surrender. True success isn't doing more for ourselves; it's doing God's will, in God's power, for God's glory. regular service is at 10am on Sundays. We are located at 304 E. Austin Ave in Hutto, TX. Can't make it in person? You are welcome to join us live on Facebook or YouTube. If you need prayer or you just need someone to talk to please reach out to us at prayer@huttocommunitychurch.org.HCC Website - HCC Facebook - HCC YouTube

Life can feel like a series of slumps—seasons when you're doing everything right but nothing seems to work. In Mark 5, we meet a woman who endured a 12-year slump of pain, isolation, and disappointment, yet she still reached out to Jesus in faith. When she touched His robe, everything changed—her faith made her whole. No matter how long your slump has lasted, Jesus hasn't forgotten you; He's never too busy to stop and meet you right where you are.Our regular service is at 10am on Sundays. We are located at 304 E. Austin Ave in Hutto, TX. Can't make it in person? You are welcome to join us live on Facebook or YouTube. If you need prayer or you just need someone to talk to please reach out to us at prayer@huttocommunitychurch.org.HCC Website - HCC Facebook - HCC YouTube

In Mark 4:34-41, we find the disciples in a pickle in the Sea of Galilee.  They just experience Jesus performing all kinds of miracles, and they take a boat across the Sea to the Decapolis.  This is a spiritually dark region.  Trials and difficult tasks await them.  But before that, a deadly storm, at least that's what the disciples believed was their impending threat.  While they thought they were dying, Jesus was napping in the stern of the boat.  How did the disciples respond?  How did Jesus respond?   What was he angry with them?  Listen through this message to understand their storm, and how your storm could be preparing you for something much bigger than you could imagine!

There are many opinions in the world today about what it means to follow Jesus., and ironically, the one opinion that is often most neglected is the opinion of Jesus himself. In Mark 8:34-38, Jesus tells us exactly what it means to follow him. Even further, after Jesus tells us what it means, he then goes on to give us 4 astounding reasons why we ought to follow him, no matter what it may cost.This sermon was originally preached by Jackson Hankey at a weekend retreat for College Athletes.

In Mark 10, James and John, approach Jesus with a bold request, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.”  In the ancient world, the person on the right of the king was the second in command. The person at the left was a dear, intimate friend. Just make us the two most important and most powerful people in your kingdom.  The disciples knew what it felt like to be powerless, dehumanized, and unjustly targeted.  They wanted to rise to the top and the wield the same kind of power wielded over them by the Romans. But to this, Jesus says, “Not so with you.” “For whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.” Jesus wanted them to think differently, about power, about leadership, about the good life. It's tempting to try and grasp for more power and more control when we feel disempowered. But what would it look like for us to leverage what power we do have, to serve all?

In Mark 14:1–11, we see a striking contrast between calculated betrayal and wholehearted devotion. While others measure what Jesus is worth to them, Mary pours out her most valuable possession in worship, showing that Christ's worth isn't relative—it's objective. Is our worship cautious and measured, or surrendered in response to His infinite worth?

In Mark 1:40–45, Jesus heals a man with leprosy by touching him — an act of compassion that restores both body and dignity. This 2 Minute Disciple devotional invites us to receive His touch and extend it to others.

Send a text    In Mark 3:29 Jesus said "but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation"   This saying of Jesus has caused many people great anxiety throughout the history of the church. Many have wondered if they have committed the unpardonable sin. Concern that one may have committed it is a good indication that one probably has not. The way to avoid committing the unpardonable sin is to believe the testimony that the Holy Spirit has given about Jesus in Scripture, namely, that He is the Christ (i.e., the divine Messiah, cf. 1 John 5:1). In other words, the only unforgiveable sin is the sin of rejecting Christ as Savior. If you die and have not trusted Christ as your Savior, then you will end up in hell.  That is the unforgiveable sin. If you haven't trust Him today.          Mark 3:28-30 "Assuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they may utter; 29 "but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation" -- 30 because they said, "He has an unclean spirit."       Mark 8:36 "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?             John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. Have you trusted Him as your Savior? He can Save you if You ask Him based on His death, burial, and resurrection for your sins. Believe in Him for forgiveness of your sins today.               “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”  -John 8:32          Our mission is to spread the gospel and to go to the least of these with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ; We reach out to those the World has forgotten.              hisloveministries.podbean.com #HLMSocial hisloveministries.net https://www.instagram.com/hisloveministries1/?hl=en His Love Ministries on Itunes Don't go for all the gusto you can get, go for all the God (Jesus Christ) you can get. The gusto will get you, Jesus can save you. https://www.facebook.com/His-Love-Ministries-246606668725869/?tn-str=k*F             The world is trying to solve earthly problems that can only be solved with heavenly solutions

Why does it feel so good to point out what's wrong? In Mark 7, the Pharisees find fault while standing in front of a miracle. Jesus responds with unsettling clarity. The real problem is not out there but in here. Beneath our criticism lies a craving to be right, and beneath that, a heart that cannot fix itself. This week we will see why self-improvement cannot save us and how only the cross can wake us up and set us free from the exhausting cycle of accusation. Series: The Gospel of Mark Speaker: Davis Johnson Hope Community Church - Downtown Minneapolis Download Message Slides For more resources or to learn more about Hope Downtown, visit hopecc.com/downtown.

In Scripture, the sea is never neutral. It represents chaos, fear, and the forces that pull everything downward. In Mark 5, Jesus crosses the water to meet a man living among the tombs, bound by affliction and abandoned to gravity. This opening sermon in the Gravity & Grace series explores what Simone Weil called the “natural movement of the soul”: fear descends, water always falls, and we often prefer familiar suffering to unfamiliar grace. Gravity is not malicious, it is simply the law. But grace interrupts. When Jesus restores the man to himself, he does not invite him into the boat. He sends him home to tell what mercy has done. The miracle is not only that he was healed, it is that he returned. Grace does not always pull us toward safety. Sometimes it sends us back into the places least likely to understand us, armed only with a story of mercy.

This Sunday, we continue our study of the final days before Jesus' crucifixion. In Mark 14:12-26, Jesus and the disciples prepare to share the last Passover meal in Jerusalem. This is truly the final Passover meal because, during the feast, Jesus transforms its meaning to symbolize His sacrificial death and establish the New Covenant. As opposition grows from all sides, Judas seeks an opportunity to betray Him, and although Jesus knows the disciples will abandon Him before sunrise, He proceeds with calm authority as He reveals the New Covenant to these men. In this passage, Jesus sovereignly orchestrates every detail of the meal. No detail is too small, including the room where they will observe the Passover. Jesus then announces a traitor at the table, prompting all the disciples to examine themselves and ask, "Is it I?" Their self-examination seems to be the main point, since Jesus does not reveal the betrayer to them. He leaves them uncertain about which one of them it will be. Jesus knows the betrayer's sin, but He also understands the weakness of all the disciples. (He will foretell that all of them will abandon Him in v. 27-31.) Yet, knowing their sin and frailty, Jesus still breaks the New Covenant bread with them and promises to eat again with them in the Kingdom of God. He permanently transforms the Passover into the Lord's Supper, declaring the bread as His body and the cup as the blood of the new covenant, poured out for many. Jesus is fully aware of the depth of our sin and faithlessness, yet He still sits at the table with us, offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice, and invites unworthy sinners to the meal of redemption as our Savior. I. Jesus Is Sovereign Over Every Detail (v. 12-16) II. Jesus Knows The Depths Of Our Sin (v. 17-21) III. Jesus Is The New Covenant Sacrifice For Sinners (v. 22-25)

Send a textWe all had monsters under the bed as kids. As adults, they hide in our hearts.Week 1 of Grown-Up Monsters explores one of the most common yet hidden struggles we face: loneliness.In Mark 1:35–45, Jesus encounters a man who had been isolated and untouchable. Before performing a miracle, Jesus does something powerful — He reaches out and touches him. It's a reminder that God does not stand at a distance from our loneliness. He meets us in it.If you've been feeling alone, unseen, or spiritually distant, this service will remind you that you are not abandoned.

We read in the 10th chapter of Joshua that he spoke to the LORD in the sight of Israel and told the sun and moon to stand still and they did! In Mark 11:23 we read that if we believe and don't doubt what we say will be done. Join Pastor Dwayne as he leads unto scripture and shows up to speak to our sickness, doubt, situations and whatever else might be hindering our walk with the Lord.

This Week: Dinner in the DirtSome seasons feel like you're running on fumes. Not a crisis. Just stretched. A little worn down. In Mark 8, a crowd runs out of food after three days in the wilderness. Instead of sending them away, Jesus tells them to sit down on the ground. What if the place that feels empty is actually where God is about to provide?Sermon Series: Mark This DownAs we approach our church's final chapter, we are returning to what matters most. Over the next 16 weeks, we will walk through the Gospel of Mark, one chapter at a time, listening again to the story of Jesus. In a season of endings, we are choosing to anchor ourselves in the good news that first called us—and still sends us.Sermon preached by Dallas Flippin, on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at the First Baptist Church of Jackson, MI.Connect with FBC JXNLearn more about FBCJXN at https://fbcjxn.org.Follow us on Facebook at https://facebook.com/fbcjxn.Follow us on Instagram at http://instagram.com/fbcjxn.Want to connect more with us, fill out our virtual connect card at https://www.fbcjxn.org/connect/How can we pray for you? Let us know at https://www.fbcjxn.org/prayer/

What's your worst fear? Jesus did more than speak about fear. He faced it. In Mark 14:35-36, Jesus prayed in...

February 20, 2026Today's Reading: Mark 1:29-45Daily Lectionary: Genesis 2:4-25; Mark 1:29-45“And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.” (Mark 1:35)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Healings and more healings. This is what Jesus is doing. But amidst the healings is prayer. Jesus prays. We see this quite often with Jesus, that He goes off alone to pray. Sometimes it's to present specific requests to God and we get to hear them (like the High Priestly Prayer in John 17, or Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane), but sometimes we don't get to hear the conversation He has alone with the Father. We do see that once He finishes praying, He's ready for what comes next. It's almost as if spending time alone with His Father in prayer refreshes, renews, and energizes Him. In Mark 1, after Jesus prays, He sets off for what's next: more healings. Life can be exhausting sometimes. I don't know if you would describe yourself as an introvert or an extrovert. All of us can get tired, exhausted, and worn down from something, whether it's the stresses we face, the pressures of school, family, work, or something else, like just living life. Some introverts are refreshed by being alone, spending time with themselves. I am not one of those people. I get refreshed and energized by being with people. Spending time in prayer can refresh us because we get to be with the One who created us, we get to cast all of our cares, concerns, worries, issues, and burdens on the One who is able to not only handle all of our stuff, but the One who can actually do something about our stuff. This doesn't mean that all of our prayers will be answered. Jesus knew what God's will was in the Garden of Gethsemane, and He prayed for His will to be done. He also asked that the cup would be removed from Him, even though He knew it wouldn't be. Paul writes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, who brought peace between us and God through His death and resurrection, gives us peace no matter what God's answer to our prayers is. In Him we can have peace knowing that He is always with us when He says no, and when He says yes.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Amen, that is, so shall it be. Make strong our faith in You, that we May doubt not but with trust believe That what we ask we shall receive. Thus in Your name and at Your Word We say, “Amen, O hear us, Lord! (LSB 766:9)Rev. Glenn Worcester, pastor of Peace Lutheran Church, Winnipeg, ManitobaAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

This week on Consider This, Justin Ebert is joined by Ryan Vincent and Drew Moss to discuss Numbers 1–20 and Mark 5–6. Together, they explore the purpose and themes of Numbers, Israel's cycles of complaint and rebellion, the priestly blessing, divine impassibility, tithing, and Moses striking the rock. In Mark, the conversation turns to Jesus walking on water, and the moments in Christ's ministry that most astonish us.

IntroductionMost things that bring us comfort are only appropriate in proper situations. For instance, a warm blanket, a favorite flannel shirt, a pair of pajamas. Each has its place. You do not wear a blanket or pajamas in public settings. You do not wear an old comfy flannel shirt to a wedding. But the Heidelberg Catechism opens with a striking claim: that there is a single comfort appropriate in every circumstance. In fact, this is a single comfort in life and in death. This raises an honest question: can any comfort truly be that universal? So we look at the claim of Heidelberg Catechism Question and Answer 1. What is our ONLY comfort in life and in death? "I Give Them..”At first glance, Christ's claim to give eternal life sounds more like an imposition than a comfort. If it's not something we opt into, is it really a gift? To answer this, the catechism points us to a hard truth: we are not neutral recipients. Like those enslaved by debt or victims of war, we are slaves. We are either slaves of sin or slaves of righteousness. We are slaves. (Romans 6:18) The catechism reminds us that Christ is a faithful savior and not a tyrannical master. It's the portrait of a redeemer who pays the debt we couldn't pay and frees us from a master, the tyranny of the devil, who sought to destroy us. We learn that the Devil's marketing pitch for Adam and Eve did not end well. It turns out that it is a good thing that Christ is overbearing, that he overwhelms us with His grace, as He gives us eternal life. This is the gift that we do not naturally want, but the gift that we need to live life to the fullest in this age. Truly, living life for Christ is the highest and greatest thing we can do rather than pursuing our own independence. "They Will Never Perish" This promise seems false. We go to Christian funerals, which means that Christians do die. Is Christ overpromising and underdelivering? When we look deeper into Scripture, we see that "perish" implies something deeper than a mere physical death. In Mark 1:24, Christ encounters demons. They cry out, inquiring if Christ is going to destroy them/perish them. To perish is to be undone, destroyed, stripped of your identity and purpose. It is much more than death. What Christ promises is that the forces that assemble against his people will not succeed. We think of our sin or the sins that tempt us outside of us. We think of Satan and his satanic army. We think of any influence that pulls us from Christ. The assurance is that we will not be undone or overcome. We will never perish."No One Can Snatch Them”We hear the promise that he knows all the numbers of the hair on our heads. This might sound creepy or overbearing. But when we read this statement in light of Christ as faithful Shepherd, it becomes something else entirely: an assurance that nothing in our lives escapes his notice or his care. He is not the hired hand who flees when the wolf appears. He is the Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep. The high priestly prayer in John 17 reminds us that he intercedes on behalf of his people. The fourth servant song promises that: “yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors.” So when Christ promises that no one will snatch them out of the Father's hand, he is assuring us no one will seize us from our shepherd. The "snatching" language describes a forcible seizure against one's will. Christ's answer is that even this cannot prevail. The same one who prayed for his disciples on the eve of the cross still intercedes for those who believe through their word, two thousand years later.We cannot see Christ as a creepy stalker. Rather, we need to see him as the empowering savior who protects his people. He does not empower us to live for ourselves, but to live for him. It is only as we live in communion with our Savior that we truly have life. ConclusionSo, can there be only one comfort that is appropriate in every situation, season, and circumstance? Yes! The catechism's opening answer assures us of our value. Our value doesn't rest in our accomplishments, our reputation, or our self-determination. It rests on the fact that we bear the image of God. Our value rests in the fact that Christ has redeemed us. Our joy is living as slaves of righteousness as we walk in the Holy Spirit. We have been redeemed by Christ. The communion we once pushed away has been restored because the Good Shepherd sought us. He shepherds us through this life, through death itself, and into the age to come. The comfort of belonging to Christ isn't a soft sentiment for easy days. It is the one comfort sturdy enough for every circumstance because his sheep will not be undone. His sheep will never perish. His sheep will never be snatched. Let us proceed in the confidence that our Lord is our definitive redeemer.

Ash Wednesday begins with a descent. In Mark's Gospel, Jesus is named “Beloved” at his baptism and immediately driven into the wilderness. This sermon explores what that movement means, not as punishment or “tough love,” but as a return to dust, to humanity, and to grace. In a culture that avoids limitation and fears weakness, this message invites us to see the wilderness differently: not as breaking, but as reuniting. Not as exile, but as homecoming. In the wilderness of dust, God does sacred, recreating work. As we begin Lent, we are reminded that grace is not found in our rising, but in our descent.

In Mark 2, we will watch four men carry their friend to the only One who can help him. It is on this day that a powerful miracle will be performed by the Son of God to demonstrate His divine authority to forgive the sins of men on earth.

What does the cursed fig tree have to do with prayer, faith, and judgment?In Mark 11:12–25, Jesus curses a fig tree, cleanses the temple, and then teaches one of the most powerful lessons on biblical faith and prayer. This wasn't random. It was prophetic.The fig tree represented Israel — full of leaves but empty of fruit. Outward religion. No inward reality.And the warning is clear: If there is no fruit, there will be judgment.But Jesus doesn't stop there. He moves from warning to instruction:“Have faith in God.” (Mark 11:22)In this sermon, we explore:✔️ What Biblical Faith Really Is ✔️ Faith in God's Person, Promises, Power, and Purposes ✔️ Why Prayer Is Not a Blank Check ✔️ What It Means to Move Mountains ✔️ How to Align Your Will With God's Will ✔️ The Danger of Fruitless ChristianityFaith is not: Faith in feelingsFaith in outcomes Faith in faithFaith is confidence in the character and Word of God.This message will challenge religious routine and call you back to authentic, fruit-bearing faith rooted in Scripture.

Does the urge to drink ever go away, or is it something you're stuck managing forever? In this Alcohol Freedom Coaching episode, Coach Hayley works with Mark, and Coach Soraya supports Michael as they share the real, messy middle of change. Mark talks about years of 30, 60, and 90-day breaks, the weight of the “alcoholic” label, and how an emotion-based goal—making alcohol immaterial in his life—finally eased the mental tug-of-war. Michael opens up about being 45 days alcohol-free, feeling “on display” in social situations, and tracing that discomfort back to a lifelong drive to fit in. These are the exact kinds of questions—about cravings, labels, and belonging—that get coached compassionately daily inside The Path. In Mark's session: Exploring if the urge to drink ever goes away through real-life data points Moving from “I'm an alcoholic who can't drink” to “alcohol is an addictive substance” Why time-based goals kept him chasing “normal drinking” Adopting an emotion-based goal: making alcohol immaterial in his life Using ACT and curiosity to meet cognitive dissonance instead of fighting it Noticing how cravings and thoughts faded dramatically by around 90 days Reclaiming mental real estate, time, and energy for what actually matters And more In Michael's session: Feeling like he has to explain his choice and wondering does the urge to drink ever go away Using an ankle injury as a temporary “cover story” while he builds confidence Linking his discomfort to a deep drive to fit in and avoid conflict Connecting current social anxiety to teen anorexia and years of trying to blend in Learning that friends' reactions often reveal their unease with alcohol Shifting from autopilot drinking to conscious “pilot” mode with curiosity and logic Letting the world adapt to his alcohol-free choice instead of shrinking himself And more Hayley Scherders is a certified TNM Coach with training from the Canadian Addiction and Mental Health Association. Drawing from personal experiences, Hayley understands how tough change can be and provides a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free space where her clients can feel supported. She believes that with the right mindset, anyone can change their life at any time. Learn more about Coach Hayley: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/hayley-scherders/ Soraya Odishoo is a compassionate Certified This Naked Mind Coach who blends somatic healing with therapeutic models to support recovery. She serves people who feel disconnected from their true selves and want freedom from substances or behaviors that no longer serve them. She takes a trauma-informed, heart-centered approach with a strong focus on accessibility for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities.Learn more about Coach Soraya: https://thisnakedmind.com/coach/soraya-arjan-odishoo-alpc/ Episode links:nakedmindpath.com Related Episodes: Will I Ever Stop Craving Alcohol? – Reader Question – E676 – http://thisnakedmind.com/ep-676-readers-question-will-i-ever-stop-craving-alcohol/ How Do I Break the Cycle of Recurring Data Points? – Reader Question – E588 – http://thisnakedmind.com/ep-588-reader-question-how-do-i-break-the-cycle-of-recurring-data-points/ From Cravings to Curiosity – Alcohol Freedom Coaching – E851 – https://thisnakedmind.com/why-cant-i-get-rid-of-alcohol-cravings-e851/ Ready to take the next step on your journey? Visit https://learn.thisnakedmind.com/podcast-resources for free resources, programs, and more. Until next week, stay curious! Quince: Go to⁠ ⁠⁠Quince.com/naked⁠⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns  Hungryroot: Get 40% off your first box + a free item for life at ⁠⁠⁠Hungryroot.com/mind⁠⁠⁠ with code mind BetterHelp: BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist. Sign up and get 10% off at ⁠BetterHelp.com/nakedmind⁠ Shopify: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at⁠ ⁠⁠Shopify.com/mind⁠

In Mark 1:29–34, Jesus heals Simon's mother-in-law and ministers to a crowd gathered at the door. This 2 Minute Disciple devotional reminds us to invite Jesus into the personal spaces of our lives and watch Him work.

In Mark 5, Jesus steps into enemy territory and confronts a man bound by darkness. What happens next reveals His authority over demons, despair, and death itself. From the tombs to the light, this is the transforming power of Christ.

This week on the Calvary Church Podcast, we continue our February series, On Earth As It Is In Heaven, with a message entitled “Generosity of Resources.”In Mark 12:41–44, Jesus draws our attention to a widow whose small offering reveals a great faith. While others gave out of abundance, she gave out of trust—placing everything she had in God's hands. Her quiet act of generosity paints a powerful picture of what God values most.This message invites us to rethink generosity—not as an amount to measure, but as a posture of the heart. When we release our resources with trust and obedience, we reflect the values of heaven here on earth.Join us as we explore how sacrificial generosity becomes a living expression of God's kingdom and how our giving can align our hearts with His purposes.Subscribe, share, and continue praying and living on earth as it is in heaven.

In Mark 12:13-17, strange allies gather in the temple courts with a single aim: to defeat and destroy Jesus. They approach with a simple but loaded question about power, loyalty, and who truly holds authority. What unfolds is far more than a clever escape, but showcases the beauty of our Savior.  

In a world shaped by the attention economy, it can be hard to believe prayer really matters—but Genesis 18 shows a God who invites conversation and responds to intercession. In Mark 1:35–39, we see Jesus step into the eremos (silence and solitude), pray through interruptions, and come out with clear priorities for ministry. This message offers a realistic path forward: carve out 5–15 minutes of daily prayer, prepare for interruptions, and bring one decision to God before you act. // SCRIPTURE REFERENCES // Genesis 18:17;23-24;26, Mark 1.35-39, John 5:19 More info at the Bible Project: https://bibleproject.com/videos/mark/ // TAKE A NEXT STEP // Want to visit or discover more about Columbia View? Made a decision to follow Jesus or get baptized? Looking to get involved in growing and serving?VISIT HERE: https://columbiaview.org/ //FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA // Youtube Instagram Facebook

What a mixture of fascinating readings we have today!  We recall how the 12 tribes in escaping from Egypt, first asked many things from the Egyptians,  (Exod. 3 v.22)”…you shall plunder the Egyptians.”  It was from these things that they could provide all that was needed to make the golden ark, lampstands, etc.  We read today that from “everyone whose heart moves him you shall receive the contribution … gold, silver, and bronze,   blue and purple and scarlet yarns and …” [25 v.2-4]  Our God desires our freewill service of heart, may our hearts be moved in this way.The 72 verses of our Psalm 78 is teaching “a parable” [v.1,2] about the wonders of God's actions in delivering them from Egypt, to “tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the LORD” [v.4]  Yet we know that the generation that experienced the miraculous escape from Egypt failed to serve God acceptably; they did not develop genuine faith and died in the wilderness: a lesson for us.Our N. T. reading shows the primary weakness of human nature. In Mark's gospel we read how two of Jesus' disciples. “said to him, ‘Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.'” [10 v.37] Jesus told them that “those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you.” [v.42,43]Our news constantly contains accounts of conflicts between those seeking to exercise authority, seeking the ‘top' job, especially in politics: there is particular aggressiveness in election campaigns.  But Jesus told his disciples (and us) “whoever would be great among you must be your servant,  and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.  For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”[v.43-45]In the future, those who have truly followed the example of Jesus, will be made “great” in whatever way the Master decides.  We looked back at v.29-31 and the teaching of Jesus that “there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters  …. who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time…” also “houses and brothers and sisters (in Christ – now)  … with persecutions” (and we think of those today in countries such as Iran)  – all such will receive  “in the age to come eternal life.”   Let us seek the ‘slavery' of service to our Lord now, with its blessings of a spiritual family –  anticipating in faith, when the angels are sent forth, we will be dramatically delivered from the ‘Egypt' that surrounds us today.

Even the most confident disciple can fall, but Jesus' grace runs deeper than our weakness. In Mark 14:27–31, Jesus predicts the scattering of His followers, promises restoration before failure ever happens, and shows that our hope rests not in our resolve, but in His finished work. This week, Pastor Korey reminds us that the Shepherd who was struck is the same Shepherd who gathers, restores, and leads His sheep by grace.

Series: N/AService: You Are From GodType: You Are From GodSpeaker: Scott Taylor & Tyler HallThanks for joining us for our weekly Bible reading discussion. Today we will reflect on how Jesus masterfully exercises the authority of God to evil men. In Mark 11 & 12 Jesus shows how he handles being tested and gives incredible responses to questions that are meant to trap and accuse him. He rebukes the corruption of the temple by the leaders, answers questions about the law given by Moses, and teaches of faith that can do the unthinkable. Through all of these interactions Jesus acts out of reverence for his Father and love toward those who reject him.

In Mark 1:16–20, Jesus calls His first disciples in the middle of their ordinary workday. With no hesitation, they drop their nets, leave behind everything familiar, and follow Him into the unknown. This 2 Minute Disciple devotional invites you to step into that moment, feel the weight of the choice, and take your own step of faith by “dropping your net” today.

In Mark 3, Jesus performs a miracle but not before becoming angry. This episode explores the difference between selfish anger and righteous anger, and how holy indignation can actually bring healing.

In Mark 10, we meet a blind beggar sitting on the side of the road while Jesus is passing by. His name means “son of honor” or “son of worth” — yet he's living like a beggar. In this message, we walk through the story of Blind Bartimaeus and explore the tension between who God says we are and how we often see ourselves. What does it mean that he threw off his cloak? Why does Jesus ask such a specific question — “What do you want me to do for you?” And why is it sometimes easier to believe in Jesus than it is to ask Him for something specific? Healing wasn't the end of Bartimaeus' story — following was. But following began with an honest answer to the question, “What do you want me to do for you?”   From Sunday 02.08.26

In Mark 12:35–44, Jesus reveals that the way we see Him shapes the way we follow Him. The crowd expected a smaller Messiah—just a descendant of David—but missed that He is the Son of God and Savior, worthy of full surrender. A low view of Jesus produces a shallow, self-centered faith that treats God as useful rather than beautiful. In contrast, the widow's sacrificial offering shows what deeper worship looks like: trusting Jesus more than circumstances and giving because, in Him, we have already been given everything.

No opposition could stop Jesus. No criticism could silence compassion. In Mark 3:1–8, we see a Savior who refuses to back down—even when surrounded by hostility, scrutiny, and religious pressure. When a man with a withered hand stands before Him, Jesus proves that God's power and mercy are unstoppable.In this message, you'll discover how Jesus moves forward when others try to shut Him down, why obedience matters more than public opinion, and how the same unstoppable power of God is still at work today. If you've ever felt resisted, limited, or challenged for doing what's right, this word will strengthen your faith and remind you that what God starts, no one can stop.No matter the resistance, no matter the critics—Jesus is unstoppable, and so is His work in your life.

Series: WisdomService: You Are From GodType: You Are From GodSpeaker: Scott Taylor & Tyler HallIn this episode we contrast how living life relying on our human understanding leads us astray versus how living through full trust in God will lead us to purpose and greatness. Proverbs reinforces the guidance a father gives his child to maintain purity of mind and seek a life of Godly wisdom. In Mark 9 & 10 we see the distraction a man's own understanding brings. Jesus exposes the fault in his disciples' thinking and shows them what greatness actually looks like. Jesus teaches a heart that has the faith of a child in God. A heart of humility that…

The words of Jesus in many places challenge us to meditate and think through what he says so as to get to the heart of the point he is making.  In Mark ch. 2 today we see how he responds to the Pharisees' criticism of his disciples because they, on a Sabbath day, in walking through the grain fields, plucked and ate ears of corn.  The Pharisees had minutely defined all the precepts of the Law so that their sense of their own righteousness rested on keeping the definitions of the Law they had developed.In response to their criticism Jesus said, “”Have you never read what David did, when he was in need and was hungry, he and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God … and ate the bread of the Presence” [v.25,26]  Of course they had read what David did!  But they never took in the significance of his action: they had ‘tunnel vision' on the application of the Law, their ‘righteousness' was based on meticulously keeping the letter of the Law, even ‘embroidering' the Law as they interpreted it to their satisfaction.   Jesus on one occasion remarked on how “two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.  The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get…'”  [Luke 19 v.10-12]  He concentrated on speaking to God and of boasting of his righteousness: we can say, he had ‘I' trouble! In contrast, said Jesus, “the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!'” [v.13]  This is a lesson for us! We can become proud of all the detail of what we read and learn!  This pride can lead us to have a sort of ‘tunnel vision' as to the way to understand the meaning of what we have read!  Jesus said, of the second man, ” I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”[v.14] There is a simple, but powerful lesson, in those words!  Let us have a heart-felt sense of awe as we read the Bible's divinely inspired words every day. Paul warned Timothy in his final letter about those who are “always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.” [2 Tim. 3 v.7] Their learning was undertaken with the wrong motive, just like the Pharisees. May we have the right motive whenever we “read” God's word. 

As betrayal is being planned in secret, an act of costly devotion unfolds in the open. In Mark 14:1–9, a woman pours out everything she has on Jesus—and her worship is criticized as wasteful until Jesus declares it beautiful and eternally significant. This week, Pastor Korey shows how true worship flows from recognizing Christ's worth, and why a Savior who willingly gives Himself to death is worthy of total, unreserved devotion.

As Jesus moves closer to the cross, loyalty and betrayal are revealed side by side. In Mark 14:10–26, Judas chooses treachery, the disciples are confronted with honest self-examination, and Jesus establishes the New Covenant through His own body and blood. This week, Pastor Korey shows how the Passover finds its fulfillment in Christ—and how a finished sacrifice replaces the old system with a covenant grounded in grace, truth, and redemption.

When was the last time you audited your own heart? As we enter the Awaken season, this message invites us to pause and take stock of where we’re at. When life gets heavy, it reveals what we're truly plugged into. What we love, trust, and run to in moments of pressure often exposes the condition of our hearts. In Mark 12:28–34, Jesus names the greatest commandment: to love God with our whole lives and to love others as ourselves. These two are inseparable. How we love God is always reflected in how we love people – even when we don't agree with them. In week 37 of our Gospel of Mark series, Pastor Kevin Queen challenges us to examine what may be competing for our devotion. This message isn't about trying harder, it's about getting honest, repenting where needed, and returning to wholehearted love for God and others. – – – – – – – For more info and resources on this series, visit crosspoint.tv/mark.If this message encouraged you, take a moment to let us know in the comments. Don't forget to like, subscribe to this channel, and share it with someone who needs hope today.

In Mark 10, Jesus is annoyed by the disciples, the disciples are annoyed with one another, Jesus teaches about divorce and childlike faith, and he begins the path to the cross.