Podcasts about in matthew

In today's world, scarcity seems to be everywhere. Not enough money. Not enough time. Not enough security. It's easy to live like we're always behind, always grasping, always worried. But is that the full story?Here at FaithFi, we believe Scripture paints a different picture—one where scarcity isn't the final word. Instead, through Christ, we're invited to live with hope, wisdom, and trust in God's abundant care.The Root of ScarcityThe fear of “not having enough” isn't new. Ever since sin entered the world, our hearts have struggled with distrust. In John 10:10, Jesus describes the enemy as a thief who “comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” And that's what a scarcity mindset does. It steals peace, kills joy, and destroys our trust in God's provision.This mindset urges us to hoard instead of share, grasp instead of give, and stress instead of rest. It traps us in anxiety—a form of slavery where our lives are defined by what we lack instead of who God is.Jesus doesn't leave us in fear. In the second half of John 10:10, He offers a better way: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”This abundance isn't about luxury—it's about the richness of God's care. From the very beginning, God created generously. Genesis 1 shows a God who overflows with creativity and provision, filling the skies, seas, and land with life. He didn't create out of need but out of joy.As Elisabeth Elliot wisely said, “God has promised to supply all our needs. What we don't have now, we don't need now.”Jesus Offers Something BetterJesus lived simply, with no home of His own, yet He never operated from scarcity. He lived generously, turning water into wine, feeding multitudes, and offering forgiveness to all. In Matthew 6:25–34, He urges us not to worry, pointing to the birds and lilies as evidence of the Father's care.“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,” Jesus tells us, “and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). This is the antidote to fear: a trust-filled life focused on God's Kingdom.So, how do we break free from the scarcity trap? Here are a few biblical steps:1. Renew Your MindRomans 12:2 calls us to be transformed by the renewal of our minds. Ask God to help you see life through the lens of His abundance, not the world's lack.2. Practice GratitudeThankfulness shifts our focus from what's missing to what God has already provided. It's a simple but powerful habit that reorients our hearts toward trust.3. Embrace StewardshipWe are not owners but stewards. Everything we have is a gift from God. Proverbs 3:9 reminds us to “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce.”4. Give in FaithDon't give out of fear—give out of faith. 2 Corinthians 9:8 promises that God will provide all we need so that we can abound in every good work.God Is More Than EnoughLiving in God's abundance doesn't guarantee an easy life. But it does guarantee we never face our challenges alone, and we never need to be enslaved by fear.So when the world says, “There's not enough,” we can respond with confidence: Our God is more than enough. His abundance isn't just material—it's spiritual. It's peace, joy, and confidence that our Father knows exactly what we need.If you're struggling with financial fear or anxiety, we invite you to explore our 21-day devotional, Look at the Sparrows. It's designed to help you shift from fear to faith as you grow in your trust of God's provision. Order a copy or place a bulk order today at FaithFi.com/Sparrows. Let this journey lead you into deeper peace and stronger trust, because your Father really does care for you.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've been looking into Fisher Investments to help manage my portfolio, but their 1.25% advisory fee seems a bit high. With $1.4 million in assets, is that rate competitive, or should I be considering other options?I'm on a limited income and have had serious health issues in the past. My husband is retired, and I'm struggling to find affordable health insurance. I'm also worried that my health history might lead to penalties or denial. What are my best options?I set up an LLC for a rental property and assumed I could report the income as a pass-through on my personal 1040. But my tax preparer says I now need to make quarterly estimated tax payments. Is that really necessary, and how do I know what to pay?I'm 62 and a half and thinking about retiring early this coming January. My current job no longer aligns with my values. I plan to take Social Security at around $1,835/month, which is about $500 less than my current income. My wife is still working and will cover our health insurance. What key retirement planning considerations might I be overlooking?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)HealthCare.gov | eHealth | HealthMarkets | HealthSherpaIRS.gov | SSA.govWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Your Sin Is Never Too Great for God; If You Return to God, He Will Return to You MESSAGE SUMMARY: We all sin, and sometimes you may perceive your sin to be so horrendous that you think your life is lost to God's willingness to forgive you; therefore, you believe that you are lost to God's Salvation. If you repent to God of your sins and return to God in your life, He will return to you. Whenever we fall into sin, do we repent and return to the Lord? Hopefully, our answer is: "I will, with God's help.". Our God wants us to return to Him because He loves us -- He is a covenant God. In Malachi 3:7, God admonishes His people who have turned away from Him; but God promises His return to His people if they return to Him: “From the days of your fathers you have turned aside from my statutes and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you, says the LORD of hosts. But you say, ‘How shall we return?'". However, Malachi asks the question: “How shall we return?”. Joel 2:12-13 provides the Lord's answer to Malachi's question: “'Yet even now,'” declares the LORD, ‘return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the Lord our God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and He relents over disaster.'”. The Lord wants to meet you where you are and to bring His Grace to you. In Matthew 26:27-28, Jesus confirms His Covent relationship with you: "And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.'”. If you return to God in your life, He will return to you.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Most merciful God I confess that I have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what I have done, and by what I have left undone. I have not loved you with my whole heart; I have not loved my neighbors as myself. I am truly sorry and I humbly repent. For the sake of your son Jesus Christ, have mercy on me and forgive me; that I might delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of Your Name. Amen.  TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, Because of who I am in Jesus Christ, I will not be driven by Hatred. Rather, I will abide in the Lord's Love. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Malachi 2:4-6; Malachi 3:1-5; Matthew 26:27-29; Psalms 15:1-5. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “The Sermon on the Amount – Part 1 “Where Your Treasure Is””, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Daily Dose of Hope July 21, 2025   Scripture – Matthew 27:1-31   Prayer:  Almighty God, We come before you this morning, rejoicing in your powerful and holy name.  You are everything, Lord – Creator, Sustainer, Provider, the one who sees, the one who is most high, Mighty, Everlasting.  There are times that we are overwhelmed by your love and care.  How could the one who created all, also care about me?  God, we give you glory.  We are so grateful for how you involve yourself in our lives.  Most of all, we thank you for Jesus.  Oh, Lord Jesus, we give you glory, honor, and praise.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Happy Monday. Today, we are starting Matthew 27.  This is another long chapter that is filled with a lot of substance so we will once again take three days to walk through it.   Today's narrative about Judas' suicide is found only in Matthew. Judas betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. I'm not sure what Judas thought would happen when he accepted the bribe. Maybe Jewish independence? Maybe some extra favors? Maybe some sense of satisfaction? But when Judas actually sees that Jesus is arrested and condemned, a man he knew was totally innocent, Judas is filled with remorse. He sees the consequences of his decision.   In his anguish, Judas brings the silver back to the religious leaders. Maybe he was looking for some kind of reassurance or guidance but they gave him none. They were, after all, simply using him to get what they wanted. When Judas realizes this, he appears to be consumed by both remorse and anger and hurls the silver into the temple. It's then that he kills himself. It seems that Judas was overcome with remorse.   If you think about it, remorse produces extreme sorrow and grief. The goal is that remorse will lead to repentance and life change. This happened for Peter. He denied Jesus three times, a very significant betrayal. He must have felt incredible sorrow after what he did but he didn't stay there. He allowed God to move him to repentance. But Judas, for whatever reason, could not get past the grief. Maybe he was overcome with fear about what his life would be like when people discovered it was him. Maybe he didn't think he would be forgiven or he thought he would lose social position. Whatever it was, he couldn't get past it.   Friends, I don't know what you are dealing with right now, but there is ALWAYS hope. Things can be really, really bad. Life can feel totally dark. But God is light. With God, there is always hope for a better day. For some reason, Judas didn't think so but he was wrong. Jesus would have forgiven him and loved him, just as he did Peter.   Jesus loves you. Jesus will always forgive you. Your life is valuable. If you ever get to the point where the darkness feels all-consuming, reach out immediately. Reach out to me or to a friend. And don't forget that God is always there, just waiting, ready to listen and comfort. You are never alone.   In the next portion of today's chapter, we have Jesus going before Pilate.  Pilate was a Roman, the governor of Judea who was serving under Emperor Tiberias.  While Pilate has been mentioned outside of the Gospels by several secular writings of the time, he is certainly best known for his role in Jesus' crucifixion.  Let's dive into that.   In Matthew's Gospel, we get the impression that Pilate is reluctantly asking Jesus questions.  He doesn't feel that Jesus is guilty of anything and this is weighing on Pilate.  Then, his wife sends him an urgent message, begging Pilate to ensure that nothing is done “to this innocent man” for she had suffered a great deal in a dream because of Jesus.   Pilate ends up seeking a compromise. Knowing Jesus had been handed over by the religious leaders out of envy and spite, Pilate appealed to the crowds at the Passover, asking which “criminal” should be set free, Jesus or Barabbas? Seeing Jesus as innocent, it appears that Pilate believes that surely the people will choose Jesus over the murderous zealot, Barabbas.  But they don't.  The Jewish leaders convinced the crowd to ask for Barabbas to be released rather than Jesus.    Pilate gives in to political pressure.  He knows Jesus is innocent.  Pilate, exasperated, declares that he is “innocent” of Jesus' blood but then he hands Jesus over to be flogged and crucified.  He did what was easy, not what was right.  And Pilate will be forever remembered as a leader who chose the expedient route, rather than the one with integrity.  He is immortalized in the Apostles' Creed and remembered by Christians around the globe when we say that Jesus “suffered under Pontius Pilate.”   The final portion of today's Scripture has the Roman soldiers mocking Jesus.  This was one more form of punishment and humiliation before the ultimate torture instrument of the cross.    More tomorrow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

In Matthew 18:19, Jesus declares that when two agree on anything here on Earth, the Heavenly Father will do it for them. But what does this prayer of agreement really look like? In today's message, Pastor Jeff Ables discusses how to access this powerful prayer, and what we should look for in a prayer partner.Prayed to accept Jesus? Congratulations! Text SAVED to 337-222-3210 or click here https://bit.ly/CC_saved New to Crossroads Church? Learn all about us at https://mycrossroads.org 

In Matthew 23 our Lord Jesus pronounced 8 woes, or curses, upon the hypocritical Scribes and Pharisees. Indeed Jesus indicated that many of their instructions showed that they had perceived what God's law required of them, but they had failed to practise the law of their Sovereign. Verse 9 tells us that many churches act against Jesus' clear teaching to call no man father, since only One is our Father, God Himself, who is in heaven. Similarly none of us is to be called the Teacher; for Christ our Master is alone to be called that. Humility is the key ingredient for a disciple's life. Christ's outlining of the beatitudes of Matthew 5 stand in stark contrast to the 8 cursings in this chapter. For these reasons Jesus pronounced their house - that is the city of Jerusalem (compare these words with our Jeremiah readings) - desolate (just like the leprous house of Leviticus 14 verses 39-45). This state would continue until our Lord Jesus' second advent which advent would be heralded by the restoration of the state of Israel. Under the reign of Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ the nation will finally be healed - see verses 37-39. The take home message for all who would be God's children is in verses 23-24. The Pharisees were 'penny wise, but pound foolish'. If you wish to focus on minor matters then ensure that you don't impose your values on others and try to focus on the monumental matters. Read the words aloud and ponder their lessons for you.

In Matthew 6:1-18, Jesus calls us to examine the why behind our spiritual practices. Giving, praying, and fasting aren't meant to put us on display; they're meant to draw us closer to the heart of the Father. The issue isn't visibility, but motivation. When we truly know who God is and what He's done for us, our response won't be performance for people—it will be worship, obedience, and a desire to please Him above all.

In moments of desperation and weakness, we often wonder if God sees us—or if He cares. In Matthew 9:18–26, Jesus responds to a grieving father and a suffering woman with compassion and power, revealing His heart for the broken. Guest Pastor Josh Moody proclaims the hope of a Savior who welcomes our faith, however small, and brings healing, life, and restoration.

In Matthew 22 verses 1-14 we have the parable of the wedding feast of the Kingdom, to which we all have been invited through the Gospel. Our Omnipotent King has provided the only garment needed for admission; the sin covering raiment of His ever glorious and pre-eminent Son. We put this garment on when we believe the gospel, repent and are baptised. The disciple must then live a life of faithfulness for our Father to graciously give us a place in His kingdom. A sobering note concludes this parable: "Many are called, but few are chosen". Then follow four questions, each one from each of the three main political parties in Israel and then unanswered question from the Lord to each of these groups. These answers provided incontrovertible proof from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Promised Messiah. Verses 15-22 addresses the unpopular subject of taxation. The tax here was the Roman tax which was even more hated because it maintained Roman armies in Judah's land. The Land that had been given to them by the Almighty. Jesus was asked: "Should we pay this tax? Or, should we not pay it?" If our Lord said - yes - then he lost popularity with his people. If he said - no - then he could be accused of treason against Rome. His enemies were sure Jesus was trapped. However he completely turned the table on his adversaries. He masterfully not only answered the question but also used the occasion to direct all the hearers to their responsibilities to their God. Our Lord asked for a denarius. Whose image and superscription is on this coin? Caesar's they replied. Then give to Caesar what is his and to God what belongs to Him. We have been made in the image and likeness of God. So our lives, minds and actions belong to Him. Verses 23-33 say that the Sadducees came to Jesus with a trick question relating to resurrection. This sect accepted only the first five books of the Old Testament - called the Book of Moses. They mistakenly believed that resurrection was not supported by these Scriptures. However Jesus proves from Exodus 3 verses 15-17 that the raising of the dead is proven by Yahweh saying that He is the God of Abraham, and God is the God of the living, for all live unto Him - not He was - therefore Abraham has a future after his being restored to life in the future. Their failure, Jesus declared , was in not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God (verse 29). Verses 34-38 Jesus is asked by Pharisee lawyer which is the greatest commandment in the Law of Moses. This topic was hotly debated among the religious leaders. Our Lord's answer is that it is very clear: You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and mind and strength - Deuteronomy 6 verses 4-5. Jesus says that the second is like unto it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself: Leviticus 19:18; 1 John 4:7-13. The chapter concludes proving Jesus himself to be the divine son of David (after the flesh), but God's Son of the Father's right hand, as attested. In verses 39-46 Jesus asks his critics whose son is Messiah, his Lord? Easy they thought! The Old Testament tells us that Messiah is the son of David. If so, says Jesus, why then does David in Psalm 110 call Messiah his Lord? This was an impossibility in Jewish reckoning for a son to be superior to his father. The only way for this to be true is for Jesus to be the Son of God as well as being the son of David: Psalm 110 verses -2; 2 Samuel 7 verses 2-16, 2 Samuel 23 verses 1-7; Micah 5 verses 2-5. His opponents were left dumbfounded.

Jesus has proven Himself to be the perfect Man, bearing the title Son of Man, the perfect Messiah, bearing the title Son of David, and the perfect Prophet, Priest, and King. The Pharisees, Sadducees, and Scribes have challenged Jesus to their own detriment. The overarching message of Jesus' sermons is that no mere human is righteous enough to enter the Kingdom. Only Jesus has perfectly obeyed the law. It is only by His atoning death and resurrection that we may by faith receive the gift of His righteousness. In Matthew 23, Jesus proclaims woes on the Pharisees for following the signs (phylacteries, fringes, tithing, etc.) while neglecting genuine righteousness and faith. Notably, he said that the scribes and pharisees have not entered the kingdom and are “children of hell.” As we see, the way of the Pharisees is not merely an old model of faith; they are following a false religion and are facing judgment for killing the prophets of God. Pastor Dan takes us through Matthew 23, explaining that faith in Christ is essential for salvation and the false religion of the Pharisees is going to be judged. Jesus provides further details about their judgment in relation to the destruction of the temple in the next Chapter (24).

In Matthew 21 Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem was accompanied by shouts of "Hosannas" (save now). Matthew tells us that this was in fulfilment of the prophecy of Zechariah, in the 9th chapter. The prophecy of Zechariah contrasts Alexander the Great, bringing death and destruction; with Jesus the lowly bring salvation. The next citation in Matthew - "Blessed is he that comes in the name of the LORD" ie Yahweh - comes from Psalm 118 verse 26 (but note Messiah's mindset from the context from the entire Psalm). The rulers were in indignation with the multitude and asked Jesus to rebuke them. Our Lord's response was to refer them to Psalm 8 the LXX version, which spoke of what was happening and the victory being accomplished. Next in the chapter came the curse of a fig tree, which like Israel, showed the false promise of apparent fruitfulness. It was cursed by Jesus. The next day the disciples witnessed that the tree had immediately withered. This was followed by Jesus demonstration that his authority was unquestionably from God. After this came the parable of the two sons - firstly the rulers said that they were doing the Father's will, but lord; in contrast the commoners knew they were sinning, but sincerely repeated. Lastly the chapter concludes with the parable of the unfaithful tenants. The rulers recognising themselves in the story fulfilled it to the letter by immediately taking counsel to destroy Jesus.

Audio reading: Num 25:1-9, 2 Chron 1:1-3:17, Romans 6:1-23, Psalm 16:1-11, Prov 19:20-21Join me in this journey reading through the entire bible inone year!  In Matthew 4:4, Yeshua said these words: “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.” Taking in the word of God every day is LIFE to our spirit and health to our bones!Visit us at: ⁠⁠dailyaudiotorah.com⁠⁠Go to ⁠Israel Connect⁠: Your bridge to the land and peopleof Israel! Daily Audio Torah,has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Bible Reading Podcasts onthe web by Millionpodcasts.com (#39)https://www.millionpodcasts.com/bible-reading-podcasts/

Audio reading: Num 24:13-25, 1 Chron 28:1-29:30, Romans 5:6-21, Psalm 15:1-5, Prov 19:18-19Join me in this journey reading through the entire bible inone year!  In Matthew 4:4, Yeshua said these words: “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.” Taking in the word of God every day is LIFE to our spirit and health to our bones!Visit us at: ⁠⁠dailyaudiotorah.com⁠⁠Go to ⁠Israel Connect⁠: Your bridge to the land and peopleof Israel! Daily Audio Torah,has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Bible Reading Podcasts on the web by Millionpodcasts.com (#39)https://www.millionpodcasts.com/bible-reading-podcasts/

The Bible teaches the importance of guarding your heart and mind, as what you listen to can significantly impact your spiritual well-being. In Matthew 11:15, Jesus says, "Whoever has ears, let them hear," emphasizing the importance of not only hearing but discerning what you allow into your life and the lives of those around you. The things you listen to shape your thoughts, influence your actions, and ultimately direct your path and the paths of those around you.Proverbs 4:23 says, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Your little ears are gateways to your heart, and if you constantly expose yourself to negativity, gossip, or worldly wisdom, it can corrupt your thoughts and lead you away from God's truth.As a follower of Christ, you must be intentional about what you allow to enter your mind through your little ears. The words you listen to should align with God's truth, build up your faith, and encourage righteousness. In Romans 10:17, Paul writes, "Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ." Be mindful of the voices you allow to speak into your life and seek to fill your little ears with the life-giving Word of God.Referenced Verses: Proverbs 4:14-17Matthew 5:181 Corinthians 15:331 Corinthians 5:11Proverbs 22:24-25Proverbs 13:20Mark 4:24-Social Media Ministries, founded by Spencer Coffman, is committed to sharing the Word of God with the entire world. We use social media to reach more people in more places and are counting on you to help us fulfill our mission. Learn more at https://socialmediaministries.com/about-us-MISSION: To use social media to present the living Word of God to as many people as possible and to help them understand and interpret the scriptures in the Bible.-FOLLOW US:YouTube - Podcast - Instagram - Facebook - Medium - Pinterest - TikTok - LinkedIn - X - Join Our Discord Server-DONATE:https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/4478888https://socialmediaministries.com/give-Apparel-Resources -Sharing Jesus. Making Disciples. Taking Ground. Building The Kingdom.

Audio reading: Num 24:1-12, 1 Chron 26:12-27:34, Romans 4:13-5:5, Psalm 14:1-7, Prov 19:17Join me in this journey reading through the entire bible inone year!  In Matthew 4:4, Yeshua said these words: “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.” Taking in the word of God every day is LIFE to our spirit and health to our bones!Visit us at: ⁠⁠dailyaudiotorah.com⁠⁠Go to ⁠Israel Connect⁠: Your bridge to the land and peopleof Israel! Daily Audio Torah,has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Bible Reading Podcasts on the web by Millionpodcasts.com (#39)https://www.millionpodcasts.com/bible-reading-podcasts/

Follow Everyday Prayers @MillionPrayingMoms_ A Prayer For Our Children's Salvation Reference Matthew 16:13-16 In Matthew 16, Jesus asks, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” The disciples list various names—John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah, but then Jesus turns the question personal: “Who do you say I am?” People often misidentify Jesus—even today. Though opinions about Him vary, one truth stands firm: Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the living God. Who is Jesus to you? Who is Jesus to your children? Prayer Jesus, thank you for being a personal savior. Help me to know, really know deep in my heart that you are the Son of God who came to save us. Help me to teach my children this same truth and help them to come to understand it for themselves. Please speak to me and help me to listen and to understand clearly what you are saying. In Jesus' name, amen. LINKS:Follow Million Prayer Moms on Instagram & Facebook: @millionprayingmoms_ Get today's devotion and prayer in written form to keep for future use! Support the ministry with your $5 monthly gift through Patreon. Discover more Christian podcasts at LifeAudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at LifeAudio.com/contact-us. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In Matthew 24:32-51 we see that readiness for Jesus' return means living with eyes open, hearts awake, and hands faithfully engaged in God's purposes.

In Matthew chapter 17 we focus on an event known as the Transfiguration. It occurs in each of the synoptic gospels - Matthew 17; Mark 9 verses 2-8, Luke 9 verses 8-36. It was a revelation of Jesus in transcendent glory. Its significance belongs to the Kingdom age. Our Lord Jesus Christ is resplendent in glorious white glistening robes. Mark tells us that this glory and righteousness surpassed that attainable by any person - this is telling us that the glorious and righteous character of our Lord was unique and sustained by God's workings. Our Lord Jesus was seen together with Moses (representative of the Law) and Elijah (for the prophets). But their glory was inconsequential when compared to that of our Lord Jesus Christ's. In addition to all of this was the commanding and imperious voice of Jesus' Almighty Father announcing to those Apostles, and to all, including us: "This is My Beloved Son in whom I am well pleased, hear him". After coming down from the Mount Jesus told his disciples that their failure to cure the epileptic boy was because their faith needed to grow and develop like a grain of mustard seed. After this Christ again told his Apostles of the great trials which lay ahead of Jesus. These sufferings would culminate in his offering on the tree and that on the third day he would be raised from the dead. Let us consider let us look at Peter's timeless commentary on the Transfiguration in 2 Peter 1 verses 13-20. Pause, and ponder and reflect.

Finding Faith That Pleases God: What Jesus Will Look For When He ReturnsDiscover what kind of faith Jesus will be seeking when He returns to judge the living and the dead. In Matthew 25, Jesus provides three powerful parables that reveal exactly what pleases God.The Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids teaches us that faith must be personally cultivated and endure through waiting and trials. You cannot borrow someone else's faith or rely on religious heritage – Jesus will look for YOUR faith when He returns.The Parable of the Talents shows us that while we are saved by grace through faith, genuine faith always produces works. Like the Sea of Galilee that receives water and gives it out, our faith should receive God's grace and pour it out to others through good works. God doesn't expect us to do what He hasn't equipped us to do, but He does expect us to use what He's given us.The Parable of the Sheep and Goats makes faith concrete and practical. True faith manifests in compassion toward those in need – feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, welcoming strangers, clothing the naked, caring for the sick, and visiting prisoners. When we serve the least of these, we're actually ministering to Christ Himself.Jesus is coming again, and when He comes, He will judge the living and the dead. This isn't just an ancient creed – it's a reality we must prepare for. The faith that pleases God is active, enduring, and expressed through love.Examine your faith today: Is it your own? Is it producing works? Is it expressing itself through love? Are you eagerly awaiting Christ's return?

What does the future hold for our world? In Matthew 24, Jesus lays out a clear and sobering roadmap of the end times—warning signs, global turmoil, spiritual deception, and the ultimate hope of His return.In this eye-opening and timely message, we dive deep into the prophetic words of Jesus to better understand the signs of the end times, the condition of the world, and how believers are called to watch, prepare, and stay faithful in the midst of it all.

Just like technology needs upgrades to keep up with the demands of today, so does our faith. Some of us are trying to operate on outdated spiritual bandwidth—there's more grace, power, and strength God wants to give, but we're not positioned to receive it. In Matthew 21, Jesus walks into the temple during Passover and sees a space that's been downgraded by greed and tradition. He flips tables and declares it's time for a change. It's time for an upgrade.

In Matthew 12:46-50, we encounter a profound redefinition of family that challenges our conventional understanding. Jesus, when told his mother and brothers are outside, asks 'Who is my mother and who are my brothers?' This question isn't meant to dishonor biological family, but to elevate spiritual kinship. We're invited to see that in God's kingdom, our true family consists of those who do the Father's will. This perspective shift encourages us to examine our priorities - are we putting first things first? The message reminds us that something doesn't have to be bad to be bad for us, urging us to seek God's kingdom above all else. It's a call to move beyond tribal thinking and embrace a broader, kingdom-focused view of family and belonging.

A good teacher takes something familiar, lifts it up, and turns it ever so slightly so that it is seen in fresh ways. In Matthew 16, Jesus asks his disciples “Who do you say I am?” The Bible, however, assumes we know more than we do – for example, that we understand some particulars about gates, keys, and where Jesus asked this question. With a little work though, we will learn that this passage indicates that the church was established on shifting ground and thinking in new and uncomfortable ways, and this is no less true for the church today.Come worship with Hillside Covenant Church LIVE at 10:00 AM both online and in person as Todd Slechta teaches from Matthew 16:13-18 & Luke 8:22-31.This week's sermon notes are available at: https://u.pcloud.link/publink/show?code=XZJl5B5ZpsfBVquzzBRda8NBs4TpjRHytBwXIf you are new to Hillside and are looking for ways to get connected and build community, visit our website: https://www.hillsidecovenant.org/ We welcome you to Hillside and are so glad you joined us today!To give in support of Hillside Covenant and its ministries follow this link: https://hillsidecovenant.churchcenter.com/givingThe sermon from Hillside Covenant Church, Sunday, July 13, 2025.

A good teacher takes something familiar, lifts it up, and turns it ever so slightly so that it is seen in fresh ways. In Matthew 16, Jesus asks his disciples “Who do you say I am?” The Bible, however, assumes we know more than we do – for example, that we understand some particulars about gates, keys, and where Jesus asked this question. With a little work though, we will learn that this passage indicates that the church was established on shifting ground and thinking in new and uncomfortable ways, and this is no less true for the church today.Come worship with Hillside Covenant Church LIVE at 10:00 AM both online and in person as Todd Slechta teaches from Matthew 16:13-18 & Luke 8:22-31.This week's sermon notes are available at: https://u.pcloud.link/publink/show?code=XZJl5B5ZpsfBVquzzBRda8NBs4TpjRHytBwXIf you are new to Hillside and are looking for ways to get connected and build community, visit our website: https://www.hillsidecovenant.org/ We welcome you to Hillside and are so glad you joined us today!To give in support of Hillside Covenant and its ministries follow this link: https://hillsidecovenant.churchcenter.com/givingThe full service from Hillside Covenant Church, Sunday, July 13, 2025.

Life can be hard. We all have felt feelings of lost, desperation, and despair. In Matthew 5:3-4, Jesus teaches that spiritual emptiness and heartfelt sorrow aren’t signs of failure, but opportunities to encounter God’s Kingdom and His comfort. These verses remind us that God draws near to the broken and fills us with eternal hope. In a world that values strength and self-reliance, Jesus invites us to find blessing in our weakness and hope in our grief. Visit us online at: RenewalChurch.net

By Stephen Bouchette - Are you ready, prepared, for the return of Jesus Christ? In Matthew 24, Jesus provided an explanation to His disciples what will occur prior to His return. Do we take these words to heart; spiritually preparing ourselves for the eventual arrival of these events?

In Matthew 12:1-14 we read about two incidents that took place on the Sabbath. These incidents illustrate what Jesus meant when He invited His followers to find rest in His way of life. In each account, Jesus shows that the “burden” of the Sabbath is to do good by meeting people's needs. The word “lawful” is important in this passage, in which Jesus had disputes with the religious leaders of the day.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sermons-from-my-heart--2423678/support.

Hi, I'm John Sorensen, President of Evangelism Explosion International, and you're listening to Share Life Today. In Matthew 9, Jesus says, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” It's easy to get caught up in church programs and forget—we're also called to go out. Pastor Manat from Indonesia shared how many churches—including theirs—grow inward, focusing only on existing members while ignoring the lost. But recently, God stirred something powerful in his heart. He joined thirty other pastors and leaders from twelve churches for an one of our evangelism discipleship trainings in Parapat. They were equipped—and sent out! Together, they shared the Gospel with 88 high school students and 31 future pastors in training. They saw the Holy Spirit move and many place their trust in Jesus. The harvest is ready. And you don't have to wait—you can be equipped to share your faith today! Let's go into our communities with the Gospel. Visit our website at sharelife.today.

In Matthew 12 we have two incidents, both deliberately performed on the Sabbath day, illustrating that Jesus was indeed the Lord of the Sabbath, in contrast to the Sabbath having authority over our Lord Jesus. The first of these confrontations between the Pharisees and Jesus' disciples was whether the disciples had the right to pluck and eat the ears of grain ( Jesus cites the precedent in David's eating of the shewbread, which our readings from two days ago highlighted). The second incident was the healing of the man with the withered hand. In all likelihood the Pharisees had planted this man at the front of the synagogue in Capernaum as a challenge to our Lord. Would he heal on the Sabbath day, or not? This healing proved that our Lord Jesus Christ was Yahweh's chosen Servant of Isaiah 42. These incidents are followed by grievous charges being leveled against Jesus of doing miracles by the power of Beelzebul - the lord of the dung heap - the prince of the demons. Jesus claims that this charge amounted to blasphemy against God's power which was being flagrantly denied despite incontestable evidence that Jesus was from God. Then follows the lesson of the fruits. Our Lord Jesus declares that the type of tree we are is shown by the fruits - ie actions of our lives - Jesus kindly words, actions and healings proved that he was the Son of God. And their hatred, words and enmity towards our Lord illustrates that they were acting from minds that were carnal in every respect. Our Lord would advance further incontestable proof of his Sonship with a prophecy of his resurrection from the dead as the sign of Jonah - the prophet from Galilee (see John 7:50-52). The chapter concludes with the parable of the unclean spirit seeking a lodging place. It leaves its abode and starts to look for another house. But finding no place it returned to its original home and found it to be swept clean. The spirit then found another 7 vile creatures to return and take possession of the original house. This spoke of John the Baptist and our Lord Jesus Christ purging the house of Israel. Only for the foul priests and Pharisees uniting to kill our Lord Jesus Christ: Matthew 23 verses :19-39. Lastly the chapter records that Jesus' own family sought to 'rescue' him from the trouble he had seemingly caused. His family were not impressed with his head on confrontations with the nation's religious leaders. Perhaps they believed he needed rest and time to reflect on a better course of action and not antagonise Israel's leaders. Jesus tells his family that he is doing the work of his God and that those who choose to listen to his Father's Word are his true family.

Todaywe are continuing to look at Luke 23. In this chapter, we read about the trial,the crucifixion, and the death of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus loves us so muchthat He gave His life on the cross of Calvary. In this chapter, we see mendoing their worst and at the same time, we see God giving His best. I rememberthat verse in Romans 5:20, “where sin abounded, grace did much more abound”.In the darkness of that hour, in the darkness of sin all around on planetearth, and especially there in Jerusalem as men are crucifying the Lord JesusChrist, the grace of God is abounding because God is pouring out His lovethrough the death of His Son on the cross of Calvary.  Jesusdidn't just happen to die. In John 10:17-18, Jesus said, “Therefore MyFather loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again. No onetakes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, andI have power to take it again. This command I have received from MyFather."  Acts 2:23 affirms thatthe crucifixion of Christ was by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge ofGod. Jesus was the Lamb that was slain from the foundation of the world (1Peter 1:20, Revelation 13:8).  Aswe look at the first five verses of this chapter, we see Jesus coming on trialbefore Pilate. He has already faced three trials with the Jews during thenight. Now, somewhere between 6:00am in the morning and 9:00am, when Jesus wascrucified, this trial before Pilate takes place on Friday morning. PontiusPilate is an interesting person. This is the first encounter Jesus has withsomeone in this chapter as far as the trial and His death on the cross areconcerned. Pilate was the governor of Judea from AD 26 to AD 36, after which hewas recalled to Rome and passed out of Roman history. Pilate was hated by theJews, and it appears he hated them as well. When Jesus is hung on the cross,Pilate has a sign put over His head: “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.”He did this to provoke the Jews, who denied that Jesus was their King.  Jesusis taken inside the Praetorium to be tried before Pilate. The Jews are outsidein the courtyard because they cannot enter without defiling themselves for thePassover (John 18:28). Jesus is in this room, and Pilate interrogates Himindividually, personally. In Matthew 27:18-19, it says Pilate knew that theyhad handed Him over because of envy. In his handling of the trial of Jesus, thegovernor proved to be indecisive. The Gospel of John records seven differentmoves that Pilate made as he went out to meet the people and then went in toquestion Jesus (John 18:29, 33, 38; 19:1, 4, 9, 13). He kept looking for aloophole, but he found none. Pilate has gone down in history as the man whotried Jesus Christ, three times declared Him not guilty, and yet crucified Himjust the same. Itwas obvious Pilate understood some of the situation with Jesus and the Jews,knowing it was because of their hatred for Him, not because He had broken anyRoman laws that would demand execution. While Pilate was sitting on thejudgment seat, his wife also sent a message to him, saying, “Have nothing todo with that just Man, for I've suffered many things today in a dream becauseof Him” (Matthew 27:19).  Pilateis convinced He's not guilty and proclaims this at least three times in thegospel accounts. But the Jews are determined to have Him crucified. In the end,Pilate makes no decision, saying, “I wipe my hands of the guilt of this justMan.” My friend, indecision is the worst decision; it is the fatal choice.Jesus says, “You're either with Me or you're against Me.”  Wemust decide for Jesus even today—whether we'll accept Him as our Savior or denyHim as the Son of God and reject Him as our Savior. What is your choice? Godbless!

Read Online“Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words—go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet. Amen, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.” Matthew 10:14–15Recall how Jesus harshly condemned the Pharisees for their hardness of heart. In Matthew's Gospel, Chapter 23, Jesus issues seven “woe to you” condemnations of these Pharisees for being hypocrites and blind guides. These condemnations were acts of love on Jesus' part, in that they had the goal of calling them to conversion. Similarly, in today's Gospel, Jesus gives instructions to His Twelve about what they are to do if they preach the Gospel in a town and are rejected. They are to “shake the dust” from their feet.This instruction was given within the context of Jesus sending the Twelve to the “lost sheep of the house of Israel” with the commission of preaching the Gospel.At that time, they were to go to those who had already been entrusted with the message of the Law of Moses and the prophets but were to now proclaim that the Kingdom of God has arrived. Jesus was the promised Messiah, and He was now here. And for those of the house of Israel who reject Jesus, they were to be condemned by this prophetic act of the wiping of the dust of their town from the Apostles' feet. At first, this can seem somewhat harsh. One can think that patience, ongoing discussions, gentleness and the like would be more effective. And though that may be the case in many of our experiences today, the fact remains that Jesus gave the Twelve this command.Just like the condemnation of the Pharisees, this prophetic action of wiping the dust from their feet was an act of love. Certainly, the Apostles were not to do this out of an irrational anger. They were not to do so because their pride was wounded by rejection or because of their disdain for these people. Rather, the Apostles were to do so as a way of showing the consequences of the townspeople's actions. When these towns of the chosen people rejected the promised Messiah, they needed to understand the consequences. They needed to know that by rejecting the messengers, they were rejecting the saving grace of the Gospel.First of all, it's important to consider those about whom Jesus was speaking. He was speaking about those who “will not receive” nor even “listen” to the message of the Gospel. These are those who have fully rejected God and His saving message. They, by their free choice, have separated themselves from God and His holy Gospel. They are stubborn, obstinate and hard of heart. Thus, it is in this most extreme case, of being completely closed to the Gospel, that Jesus instructs His Apostles to leave with this prophetic act. Perhaps upon seeing this done, some people would experience a certain sense of loss. Perhaps some would realize they made a mistake. Perhaps some would experience a holy sense of guilt and would eventually soften their hearts.This teaching of Jesus should also open your eyes. How fully do you receive and listen to the message of the Gospel? How attentive are you to the saving proclamation of God's Kingdom? To the extent that you are open, the floodgates of God's mercy flows forth. But to the extent that you are not, the experience of loss is encountered.Reflect, today, upon your being present in one of these towns. Consider the many ways that you have been closed to all that God wants to speak to you. Open your heart wide, listen with the utmost attentiveness, be humble before the message of the Gospel and be ready to receive it and to change your life as you do. Commit to being a member of the Kingdom of God so that all that God speaks to you will have a transforming effect upon your life.My compassionate Lord, Your firmness and chastisements are an act of Your utmost mercy for those who are hard of heart. Please soften my heart, dear Lord, and when I am stubborn and closed, please rebuke me in Your great love so that I will always turn back to You and Your saving message with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Jesus blesses the Apostolic College by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

It's Wednesday, July 9th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Chinese Communists imprison three church leaders Communist officials in China sentenced three church leaders to prison last month for alleged fraud. Pastor Li Jie and Elder Han Xiaodong received sentences of three years and eight months. Elder Wang Qiang received a sentence of one year and 11 months. They're from Linfen Covenant Home Church in China's northern Shanxi Province. The case has involved years of surveillance, arrests, and court delays. A statement from the church denounced the unjust sentencing, saying their leaders are “suffering for righteousness' sake and are willing to take up the cross with the Lord.” In Matthew 16:24-25, Jesus told His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” Irish pro-lifers upset 50,000 babies killed since 2019 Thousands of people attended a pro-life rally in Dublin, Ireland on Saturday. People held signs and flags that said “Life Will Win” and “Stop Aborting Our Future.” Since 2019, over 50,000 unborn babies have been murdered in the womb in Ireland. Sandra Parda with The Life Institute said, “This is an issue the media wants to ignore, but how can we be blind to 50,000 lives ended in just over six years. It represents more than 100 schools or thousands of classes of children. It's part of Ireland's future growth and development and innovation ended before birth.” President Trump to visit flood-ravaged Texas In the United States, President Donald Trump announced he will visit Texas on Friday in the wake of catastrophic flooding there.  Flash floods hit central Texas last Friday, killing at least 108 people. Most of the deaths were in Kerr County where 30 children died. Many of them were from Camp Mystic, a Christian girls camp.  Local officials have reportedly been dodging questions about their emergency response preparedness. If you'd like to contribute to the on-the-ground help of Samaritan's Purse, make a donation through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer saved 165 lives at Camp Mystic During the tragic flooding, a U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer has emerged as a hero. Twenty-six-year-old Scott Ruskan and his crew were called in to help at Camp Mystic. He described his experience on ABC's Good Morning America. RUSKAN: “I got on scene, boots on the ground at Camp Mystic. Discovered I was the only person there as far as First Responders go. “So, yeah, I had about 200 kids. All scared, terrified, cold, having probably the worst day of their life. And I just kind of need to triage them, get them to a higher level of care.” Having only been a rescuer swimmer with the Coast Guard for six months, this was literally his first rescue mission. RUSKAN: “When I got on scene, there was 200 kids looking for someone for some sort of comfort and safety. They don't really know what my experience is or my rank or my age. They just know, hey, this guy's a professional and he's here to help us. And I kind of had to live up to that standard.” Remarkably, Ruskan is credited with saving 165 lives. However, he praised  the courage of the children he rescued, calling them the real heroes. RUSKAN: “The real heroes, I think, were the kids on the ground like those guys are heroic. And, you know, they were dealing with some of the worst times their lives, and they were staying strong, and that helped inspire me to kind of get in there and help them out.” Elon Musk talks about forming The American Party On Saturday, Elon Musk announced the formation of his new political party. He wrote on X, “When it comes to bankrupting our country with waste and graft, we live in a one-party system, not a democracy. Today, The America Party is formed to give you back your freedom.” The tech billionaire said he will focus on the U.S. House and Senate over the next 12 months. Musk says the America Party will support free speech, the Second Amendment, reduced debt, and reduced regulations.   Appearing on PBS News, Amy Walter of the Cook Political Report offered her analysis. WALTER: “Whether a third party goes anywhere and what he does with that, it feels like this is a person who's been upset by his experience within the current political system. So, he says, I'm going to take my ball, go home, and then make my own party. “The reality is he could have much more influence on politics if he took some of his millions and billions of dollars and actually focused it on a certain number of candidates or races of candidates who felt similarly to him on many of these issues. “Clearly, the fiscal issue in terms of the deficit is the one driving him in this case. But he has a lot of other policies that, if he funded a candidate on the Democratic or Republican side, would be really more efficient than starting another party.” IRS: Churches cannot lose tax-exempt status if they endorse candidates The Internal Revenue Service said in a court filing Monday that churches should not lose their tax-exempt status if they endorse political candidates from the pulpit. In the case, the IRS is joining churches and Christian groups in challenging the Johnson Amendment. The 1954 provision of the tax code prohibits 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations from engaging in political activities.  The IRS said, “Communications from a house of worship to its congregation in connection with religious services through its usual channels of communication on matters of faith do not run afoul of the Johnson Amendment as properly interpreted.” Family is top value of Americans And finally, Gallup released a new poll on the most important values to Americans. U.S. adults were the most likely to rank family as their top value, followed by freedom, health, integrity, and faith. Family is the most important value for nearly all major subgroups in the survey. The most notable exception is for those who attend religious services weekly. While family is important to them, faith is even more important.  In Matthew 22:37-38, Jesus said, “‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, July 9th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

In Matthew 13 Jesus shows us that if we want to be a part of the big things God is doing in the world, then we have to submit to the small ways that God ordinarily works. If you prefer to listen, stream, and/or watch, join us and subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kingwoodmethodist

FORgive to Move FORward | Compassion Church SermonWelcome to Compassion Church! This week, Pastor Willie from LifePoint Church brings a powerful word that will challenge your heart and change your perspective.Have you ever struggled to forgive someone who deeply hurt you?You're not alone, and Jesus knew we would wrestle with this. That's why He didn't just talk about forgiveness… He commanded it.In Matthew 6 and Matthew 18, we see that forgiveness isn't optional, it's essential. And even though it feels uncomfortable and unfair, it's the very thing that unlocks our freedom.In this message, “FORgive to Move FORward,” we explore: • Why Jesus' words carry the full weight of Heaven • What makes forgiveness feel impossible, and how to do it anyway • The difference between forgiveness and reconciliation • How gratitude shifts our lens and weakens bitterness • The parable of the unforgiving servant, and what it reveals about our heartsYou'll be encouraged, challenged, and maybe even a little uncomfortable, but that's what transformation looks like. If Jesus said it, you can trust it. Obeying Him isn't always easy, but it's always worth it.Don't let bitterness hold you back.You were forgiven much, now it's time to walk in that same grace.Drop a comment with what stood out to you from today's message.Subscribe for more weekly sermons, devotionals, and encouragement!

What makes something right or wrong? Is it the rule of law? Is it an authority? In Matthew 5:21-32, Jesus talks about what fulfilling the law looks like. He goes to the heart of two very prominent commandments, “you shall not murder,” and “you shall not commit adultery.” And he introduces each one by saying, “You have heard… And then he says, ”But I tell you…!” Pastor Mike Leno will explore what Jesus says about the law and why he says it. The implications, he notes, are astounding and directly relate to our everyday lives.

In Matthew 24:15-31 we see that in the face of tribulation, we are to stay watchful and hopeful, expectantly awaiting Jesus' return to gather us to Himself.

In Matthew 6:5–15, Jesus doesn't just teach how to pray—He teaches why. He invites us away from performance and into intimacy, showing us that real prayer is not about being seen by others but about being known by the Father. This message unpacks the Lord's Prayer as a model for simple, sincere, and powerful communion with God.

In Matthew 5:1-12, Jesus opens His Sermon on the Mount with a series of surprising, upside-down declarations we now call the Beatitudes. He pronounces blessing not on the powerful or popular, but on the poor in spirit, the meek, the merciful, and those who mourn. This passage reveals the heart of God’s Kingdom — a place where humility is honored, mercy is rewarded, and persecution comes with promise. It reminds us that true blessing isn’t found in earthly success, but in a life aligned with God’s values. These words still challenge and comfort us today, inviting us to live differently in a world desperate for hope. Visit us online at: RenewalChurch.net

In Matthew 9:36, Jesus sees the crowds with great compassion... as "sheep without a shepherd." This week Roberto Paz preaches from this verse while sharing his story of how Jesus had great compassion on him and used even the brokenness around him to shape his life.What would it mean to recognize the people around you as "sheep without a shepherd"—and respond with the same compassion that found you?

In Matthew 8 verses 1-4 Jesus cures a leper. This chapter shows Jesus' authority in both word and deed. The leper knew Jesus had the power to heal. The only question was: "Would Jesus heal him?" Our Lord cured the leper and sent him to the priests to testify that Jesus could do what the Law couldn't do: Romans 8 verses1-6. Verses 5-13 speak of the faith of a Roman centurion. He asked the Lord Jesus Christ to heal his servant. The Roman asked Jesus to simply speak the word and the servant was to be healed. Verse 5 says that the centurion, being a man commanded by Rome, saw Jesus as the empowered servant of God - Jesus' Father through whom salvation comes - and with divine power and authority to heal. Our Lord Jesus said that this type of faith exceeds that of the nation who claimed to be God's children. Jesus declares in verses 10-13 that such faith showed that man to be a true son of Abraham. The Lord's words are reminiscent of the promise that God made to Abraham in Genesis 13 verses 14-16. By contrast the lack of faith of the chosen people would see them excluded from gaining the benefits of the Abrahamic promise. Verses 14-17 describe many miracles fulfilling the words of Isaiah 53 verses 3-4. Verses 18-22 tell disciples that the cost of following the Lord Jesus Christ is to forsake all other pursuits now and start that following of Jesus immediately. Verses 23-27 tell of Jesus' authority over the elements of nature in calming a storm. The cures he performs show him to be the Son of God who can save life. Verses 28-34 describe the curing of two demented men. We need to have our minds healed from the madness that is endemic in human nature and only our Lord and his Father can do that. We will be partially cured now as we heed the words of life and completely cured when by God's grace we are given an immortal body incapable of sinning.

Why do we pray? Why do we fast? In Matthew 6 Jesus strips away every layer of performance and invites us into a family conversation with the Father. Pastor Scott Wiens unpacks this potent passage by contrasting two identities: boarder and child.A boarder treats God like a landlord—pay the rent of good behavior, expect prompt service on life's leaky faucets. When prayers go unanswered, resentment bubbles up and faith erodes. Jesus warns that this transactional mindset leads only to fleeting human applause: you've “received your reward” already.A child, however, belongs by birthright. Children don't schedule an audience with Dad; they barge in, confident of love. Scott illustrates this with a vivid image: only a child wakes a king at 3 a.m. for a cup of water. That's the access Jesus grants when He teaches us to begin, “Our Father.” The Lord's Prayer then reshapes priorities—honor God's name, seek His kingdom, trust Him for today's bread, release and receive forgiveness, rely on His protection.Prayer's sibling discipline, fasting, suffers the same performance trap. In Jesus' day people disfigured their faces to telegraph how spiritual they were. Today we're tempted to do the digital equivalent. Jesus counters: wash your face, smile, keep it between you and Dad. Fasting becomes an inward hunger for God, not an outward badge of piety.Key takeaways Scott covers:Secret place > public stage – Real reward happens where only God sees.Simplicity > verbosity – Fancy words don't bend God's will; honest words bend ours to His.Identity > transaction – Romans 8 says the Spirit of adoption makes us cry “Abba.” Prayer is family talk, not rent negotiation.Scott ends with the gentle story of an elderly man who set an empty chair for Jesus during prayer; when he died, his head rested on that chair—picture of perfect trust.Press play to let these truths recalibrate how you approach God this week. Then share the message with someone who needs to trade performance for peace.We are Trinity Community Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.Subscribe to our Podcast & YouTube channel to find past sermons, classes, interviews, and more!Find us on Facebook & Instagram

Getting fit takes willpower. Earning a degree takes determination. Reaching your career goals takes hard work. In short, success takes commitment.And the same is true when it comes to your finances. Today, we'll explore what changes when you commit to managing money God's way.You've heard the saying, “Things worth doing are worth doing well.” And when it comes to your finances, there are certainly some things worth doing—like saving for the future, creating a spending plan, paying down debt, giving generously, and living with honesty and integrity.If you want to see real results in any area of life, it's going to take effort—sometimes a lot of it. And that's true for your financial life, too. Following biblical financial principles takes determination, planning, patience, and even sacrifice. So, why is it worth the effort?Because while commitment requires something of us, it also gives something to us. When we live with faith and integrity in our finances, we experience peace, contentment, and even joy. It's not just about doing the right thing—it's about being transformed more and more into who God wants us to be.Joining God in His WorkWhen you honor Him with your finances, you join in His work, bringing mercy and blessing to others. And as you experience His provision personally, your faith deepens, and your story becomes a testimony to encourage others.The Bible is filled with examples of faithful commitment. Hebrews chapter 11 is sometimes called the “Hall of Faith” because it highlights men and women who trusted God, even when they couldn't see the outcome. Abraham, Moses, Rahab—they placed their hope in God's promises before Christ ever came.But the ultimate example of commitment is Jesus Himself. Hebrews 12:2 says:“For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”A Savior who gave everything to redeem us is more than worthy of our full devotion in return.Faith lies at the heart of such a commitment, especially when it comes to finances. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as:“Confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”That means trusting God's promises, even when circumstances feel uncertain.Who's Really in Charge?So, committing to manage money God's way starts with faith, but it also requires surrender. That means asking: who's really in charge—me, or the Lord?In Matthew 6:24, Jesus says:“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”That's a heavy reminder for all of us. We can't be fully committed to both God and money. One will always take priority, and when it's not the Lord, we will feel that tension.Here are a few honest questions to consider:Do financial worries consume your thoughts?Do you find yourself chasing more and more money, more stuff, more status?Is your sense of security tied to your job or investments?If you answered yes to any of those, you're not alone. Many of us wrestle with divided hearts. It's easy to lean on what we can see, especially when life feels uncertain. But money, career, or comfort can never offer the lasting peace only God provides.Choosing to follow God's financial principles takes daily trust and perseverance. Galatians 6:9 offers this encouragement:“Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”Another gift of commitment is the encouragement we receive from God's people. You weren't meant to follow Jesus—or manage your finances—on your own.Colossians 3:12–15 paints a powerful picture of Christian community:“As God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience… Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.”If you've ever felt like giving up on your budget or putting off your giving goals, you're not alone—we all face struggles. But if everything were easy, we'd never grow stronger.Walking With YouThat's why we're here at FaithFi—to walk alongside you. Whether you're just starting out or have walked this path for a long time, we want to offer help rooted in grace, wisdom, and truth.Most of all, we want you to experience the joy of following Jesus with every part of your life, including your finances. Because true freedom doesn't come from having more—it comes from trusting the One who gave everything for you.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I turned 65 in March and am now eligible for Medicare; however, I remain employed and have employer-sponsored health insurance that includes an HSA, which I continue to contribute to. I've received conflicting information—can I delay Medicare enrollment and still have both my employer and I contribute to my HSA?I'm a 73-year-old widow and have been retired since 2017. When I retired, I rolled my 401(k) into an IRA, and that money is currently sitting in a Fidelity money market account. I also have an emergency fund with about $50,000. Given my situation, what would you recommend I do?I'm a recent immigrant to the U.S. and travel frequently to visit family abroad, which has led to long employment gaps. Even though I have an excellent credit score, I'm having trouble getting approved for housing because landlords and lenders want to see consistent income. Is there a way to circumvent this challenge?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Movement MortgageWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

In all 3 readings the contrast between perception and reality is shown to be a mighty chasm, which fleshly thinking invariably gets wrong every time. Isaiah 61 tells of Yahweh's blessing and favour to Zion through the LORD sending His beloved Son to them promising them restoration and healing through Messiah, his gospel message and restoration and healing through the offering of himself. The early verses are cited by our Lord Jesus in his home town synagogue in Nazareth - Luke 4 verse 16:30 - where he declared "today is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears". He has only quoted to the first half of verse 2 since Jesus ministry was to offer hope to the repentant who embraced the gospel message. The "day of vengeance" would come upon those who rejected the message in 70 AD (to the Jews) and the entire world at Jesus' second coming. This earned the ire of the townsfolk where our Lord had grown up in their midst and worked in their midst. The people of Nazareth attempted to kill him by casting him from the precipice. It was this Scripture that sustained John the Baptist as he languished in the prison (Machaerus) of Herod Antipas. Verses 3-7 describe the blessings which will flow to Zion when Jesus Messiah reigns over them at the appointed time. Verses 8-9 tell of their Sovereign's call on Israel to turn from their hypocritical ways and embrace the paths of the LORD. All the world will then acknowledge that nation as the blessed children of God. Verses 10-11 tell of the prophet rejoicing in the Almighty Creator and His plan to bring righteousness and blessing to the entire earth. In Matthew 6 Jesus warns against 3 forms of showy piety prevalent amongst the Pharisees of his day: conspicuous giving of alms (charity, prayers designed to impress others rather than heartfelt requests to the Father and attention-seeking fasting. Matthew 6 verses 1-6 points out that charitable deeds must have their focus on the receiver and not the giver - and the reward being future not present. The same attitude must characterise our prayers: verses 5-6. Jesus then provides a model prayer in which the reverence of God and His Name - Yahweh our Father - being foremost. Then His Kingdom sought when His will is done. Next petition for needs (not wants), the forgiveness of our sins (measured and determined of our Father by our capacity to forgive others) and then deliverance from "the evil" - ie our nature's provocation within us to sin. Verses 16-18 advises on fasting: a preparation of the mind to serve God, not an opportunity to impress others with our religious dedication. Verses 19-24 tell us that the heart is a magnet. What we treasure most will be measured by what occupies our thinking most. Don't pretend we are serving God when our minds (hearts) are preoccupied with ourselves - ie covetousness which is idolatry (Colossians 3verses 5). Verses 25-34 speak of the treasure we should seek: freedom from all anxiety is known by our God who loves us and will provide all that we need to bring us into His Kingdom. Our Father has shown us His majesty and power to bestow blessings and beauty through His creative acts. The last two verses of the chapter establish what must be the primary purpose of our lives: honouring our Father and His Son by setting our affection on things above. Slowly read these aloud. Pause and ponder. One day at a time, the Father has given us. We leave the worry for tomorrow to Him.

CHRIST HONORED RELIGIOUS FREEDOMThere is no conflict between biblical principles and the civic principle of religious freedom. In fact, it is precisely because the United States was founded on biblical principles that religious freedom exists. Only governments rooted in Judeo-Christian  values allow such broad freedom. Most Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist governments do not allow religious freedom; therefore, countries such as Pakistan, India, and Tibet are, as a whole, intolerant of other religions. Atheistic governments, such as the former Soviet Union, have also proved to be antagonistic toward free religious expression.The concept of the freedom of religion is biblical for several reasons. First, God Himself extends a “freedom of religion” to people, and the Bible has several examples. In Matthew 19:16-23, the rich young ruler comes to Jesus. After a brief conversation, the young man “went away sorrowful,” choosing not to follow Christ. The salient point here is that Jesus let him go. God does not “force” belief in Him. Faith is commanded but never coerced. In Matthew 23:37, Jesus expresses His desire to gather the children of Jerusalem to Himself, but they “were not willing.” If God gives men the freedom to choose or to reject Him, then so should we.Second, the freedom of religion respects the image of God in man (Genesis 1:26). Part of God's likeness is man's volition, i.e., man has the ability to choose. God respects our choices in that He gives us freedom to make decisions regarding our future (Genesis 13:8-12; Joshua 24:15), even if we make the wrong decisions. Again, if God allows us to choose, we should allow others to choose.Third, the freedom of religion acknowledges that it is the Holy Spirit who changes hearts, not the government (John 6:63). Only Jesus saves. To take away the freedom of religion is to empower human government, with its fallible rulers, to determine the eternal destiny of every soul. But Christ's kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36), and no one becomes a Christian by government fiat. We are made Christians by the grace of God through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). What the government does or does not do has no relation to the new birth (John 1:12-13; 3:5-8).Fourth, the freedom of religion concedes that, in the final analysis, it's not about religion; it's about relationship. God does not desire an external form of worship but a personal relationship with His children (Matthew 15:7-8). No amount of government control can produce such a relationship.The framers of the Constitution were God-fearing men making a sincere attempt to establish a new nation on biblical principles, including equity, justice, and liberty. One of the liberties they recognized as “inalienable and sacred” was the freedom of religion. Praise the Lord for such wisdom.Alexanderaalfano@lawalfano.com+1 (305) 450 8550 

It's Thursday, July 3rd, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark and Adam McManus Russia's tight restrictions on missionary activity Individuals and religious groups across Russia continue to face charges of “unlawful missionary activity.” Forum 18 reports the country has conducted 34 such prosecutions this year, an increase compared to recent years. A dozen of these cases affected evangelical Christians. Pastors were fined simply for evangelizing or holding unauthorized church services. Russia enacted tight restrictions on sharing religious beliefs in 2016. The country also imposed “anti-missionary” legislation in occupied Ukrainian territories.  In Acts 5:29, the apostles said, “We ought to obey God rather than men.” Biologically accurate pronouns allowed despite Australia's wokeness Free speech advocates won a big case against Australia this week. At issue is a post on Elon Musk's social media platform X that used biologically accurate pronouns to identify a transgender individual. Australia's eSafety Commissioner ordered X to remove the post, but X challenged the order. On Tuesday, Australia's Administrative Review Tribunal sided with X in the case.  Paul Coleman with Alliance Defending Freedom International said, “In this case, the Australian government alarmingly censored the peaceful expression of a Canadian citizen on an American-owned platform, evidence of the expansive reach of censorial forces, even beyond national borders. Today, free speech has prevailed.” Elon Musk wants to found The American Party which will cut the deficit Speaking of Elon Musk, the tech billionaire called for a new political party in the U.S. On Monday, he posted on X, “If this insane spending bill passes, The America Party will be formed the next day. Our country needs an alternative to the Democrat-Republican uniparty so that the people actually have a VOICE.”  Musk openly opposes President Donald Trump's “One Big Beautiful Bill” for its deficit spending. Afraid of losing $175m, U of Penn agrees to stop transgender nonsense The University of Pennsylvania is backing down from its support for transgenderism. The Trump administration threatened to withhold $175 million in funding to the school for allowing men to compete in women's sports, reports CNN. UPenn came to an agreement with the U.S. Department of Education recently to protect women's sports. Notably, the school will strip a transgender swimmer of his medals. The male swimmer, Will Thomas, who now goes by the feminine name “Lia” Thomas, has been pretending to be a woman, enabling him to win medals by competing in women's sports. Riley Gaines, a former University of Kentucky swimmer, said, “It is my hope that today demonstrates to educational institutions that they will no longer be allowed to trample upon women's civil rights.” Wisconsin Supreme Court strikes down 176-year-old abortion ban Wisconsin's Supreme Court struck down the state's 176-year-old abortion ban yesterday. The 1849 law made most abortions a felony. But the high court ruled 4-3 that more recent legislation superseded the law. Wisconsin only has a ban on late-term abortions now. Heather Weininger, Executive Director of Wisconsin Right to Life, told LifeNews, “The court did not point to a single state statute that specifically repeals [the law]. To assert that a repeal is implied is to legislate from the bench.” Jimmy Swaggart, known for his “I have sinned” confession, died at 90 Remember this?  JIMMY SWAGGART: “I have sinned against You, my Lord, and I would ask that Your precious blood would wash and cleanse every stain until it is in the seas of God's forgetfulness. Thank you. Thank you.” That was the tearful confession on February 21, 1988 of televangelist Jimmy Swaggart at the Family Worship Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana after it became public that he had an encounter with a lady of the evening in New Orleans.  He was defrocked by the Assemblies of God, reports The Christian Post. The Pentecostal preacher died on July 1st at the age of 90 after suffering a cardiac arrest recently. In the announcement from his official Facebook page on Tuesday, his family wrote, “Today, our hearts are heavy as we share that Brother Swaggart has finished his earthly race and entered into the presence of His Savior, Jesus Christ.” Swaggart's popularity peaked in the mid-1980s, reaching millions of households with his weekly telecasts. In his confession, the televangelist alluded to Micah 7:19. It says, “You [God] will again have compassion on us;   You will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.” Man's gold necklace cross deflected bullet And finally, a young man in Florida is thanking God for saving his life. Last month, 20-year-old Aiden Perry was shot in the chest, by accident, while visiting a friend's apartment.  The gun was only 10 feet away from him. The incident could have been much worse if it weren't for the gold cross necklace he was wearing. The necklace deflected the bullet from hitting major organs in his chest. Dr. Khafra Henry, who performed the surgery, explained to WESH-TV how Aiden's golden cross necklace was a blessing. HENRY:  “Of its metallic component, it actually shielded a lot of the force of the bullet, so the bullet ricocheted off the necklace and entered his chest wall. However, it was just in his fat tissues because it slowed down the trajectory of the bullet.” Dr. Henry noted what might have happened had Aiden not been wearing his golden cross. HENRY: “It could have been way worse, entering his chest wall itself, into the pleural space, which is the airspace around the lung, between the bones, and injuring his lung itself, or his heart.” Aiden said, “It's just kind of a reminder now – to never stop believing. Keep believing and God's definitely real.” In his comments to WESH-TV, he expressed gratitude to God. PERRY: “I think God played a big role in this. I think He's the reason I'm still here today.” In Matthew 10:29-31, Jesus asked, “Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, July 3rd, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

“He who has ears, let him hear.” – Matthew 13:9Those were Jesus' closing words after telling the Parable of the Sower—a story that invites us to listen carefully, not just with our ears, but with our hearts. Today, we'll look at this story and what it reveals about the heart behind our finances, especially the warning about “the deceitfulness of riches”.The Parable of the Sower and the State of Our HeartsThe Parable of the Sower appears in Matthew 13, Mark 4, and Luke 8. It begins with a farmer scattering seed, which falls on four types of soil. Jesus later explains that the seed is the Word of God, and the soils represent different heart conditions. Some hearts are hard, others shallow. Some are fertile and ready. But one soil in particular draws our attention today: the seed that fell among thorns.In Matthew 13:22, Jesus says,“As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.”Understanding the Thorns: Worry and WealthLet's break that down.First, Jesus points to "the cares of the world"—the daily anxieties and distractions that can crowd out our trust in God. Then, He adds “the deceitfulness of riches.” It's not wealth itself that's the issue. It's the lie wealth tells: that more money will bring more peace, that possessions equal security, and that success means significance.The Bible consistently warns us about that lie:Proverbs 11:28 — “Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf.” 1 Timothy 6:17 — “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God.”Wealth deceives us by offering the illusion of control and independence. It tempts us to believe we're self-sufficient. And when we buy that lie, we slowly stop depending on God. Like thorns in a garden, worldly cares and the lure of wealth take root in our hearts, slowly crowding out our affection for God. The space once reserved for trust and obedience becomes overrun with distraction and self-reliance.As C.S. Lewis put it:“Prosperity knits a man to the world. He feels that he is 'finding his place in it,' while really it is finding its place in him.”Time for a Heart CheckYou might be saving diligently, investing wisely, and even giving regularly. But if you're trusting in your portfolio more than God's promises—or if your finances have become a source of anxiety—then it may be time to do a heart check. What kind of soil are you cultivating?When unexpected expenses hit, what comes first—prayer or panic? When you think about the future, is your hope grounded in your retirement account or in the One who holds all things together?Jesus said the seed among thorns becomes “unfruitful.” The Word doesn't lose its power, but when wealth and worry take over our hearts, we stop responding to it. Outwardly, we may look faithful, but inwardly, our love for Him is being choked out. So, how do we respond?Jesus points to the solution just a few verses later. In Matthew 13:23, He says:“The good soil is the one who hears the word and understands it; he indeed bears fruit and yields.”Receiving God's Word deeply isn't a one-time event—it's a lifelong process of cultivating the soil of our hearts. It means creating space where God's truth can take root, thrive, and grow, without being overtaken by competing desires.Three Practices to Cultivate “Good Soil”Prioritize Your Giving—Start with generosity, not as an afterthought, but as an act of worship. Giving reminds us that money is not our master and that we trust God to provide for us. Check Your Emotional Temperature—If your peace rises and falls with your financial circumstances, that's a signal to lean into God's Word more than your wallet. Rethink Your Financial Goals—Ask Yourself: What Am I Building? And why? Is your financial plan aligned with Kingdom purposes, or is it just chasing comfort or status?As Dallas Willard said, “The main thing God gets out of your life is the person you become.” That includes how you handle money. Generosity, peace, and contentment are fruits of a life rooted in Christ, not one choked out by wealth.What Are You Trusting In?Remember that the condition of your heart matters more than the condition of your accounts. If you want to be fruitful in your finances and faithful in your walk with God, start by asking: What am I trusting in?Let the answer lead you back to Christ, because only in Him will your life bear lasting fruit.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I own a two-flat apartment building valued at around $650,000. We've received an offer and are considering buying another building listed at $640,000 in a different area. Since I've never sold a property before, I'd like to understand the full costs involved in selling my current one and purchasing a new one.I recently learned that one of the index funds I invest in holds companies involved in things I don't ethically support. As someone trying to invest according to my values, is it wrong to stay in that fund?I have an IRA that's set up as an annuity, but I'm not sure what the advantages are. Is there a real benefit to holding an annuity within an IRA, or would I be better off moving it into a different type of investment?I've had a sealed monster box of Silver Eagle coins for a while now. Should I hold onto it, or would it be smarter to sell them and reinvest the money elsewhere?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Thursday, 3 July 2025   He who has ears to hear, let him hear! Matthew 11:15   “The ‘having ears to hear,' let him hear” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus made a pronouncement that was not to be dismissed or casually heard and then forgotten. Rather, the very state of Israel, both the nation and each individual, would be affected by His words, which were, “And if you incline to receive, he, he is Elijah, the ‘being about to come.'” With that emphatic declaration made, He next says, “The ‘having ears to hear,' let him hear.”   In other words, what I just said needs to be heard and assimilated. The reason for this was partly cited in the previous commentary. The final verse of Malachi says –   “Remember! Law Moses, My servant, Which commanded him in Horeb upon all Israel – Enactments and judgments. 5 Behold! I sending to you Elijah the prophet, To faces coming day Yehovah – The whopping and the fearing. 6 And turned heart fathers upon sons, And heart sons upon fathers. Lest come and strike the land – anathema.” Malachi 4:4-6   Jesus is saying that John is the fulfillment of the promised coming of Elijah. If they rejected his message by rejecting Jesus whom he proclaimed, the land would be struck with a curse.   Life application: A few points about the verses from Malachi. When the Lord proclaimed through him to remember the Law of Moses, He was not talking about obeying the law. That was something they were supposed to do already. He was telling them to remember the law that referred to the coming Redeemer.   Malachi proclaimed in verse 4:2 that a Righteousness Sun was coming. The meaning to be inferred is that the Law of Moses was not a Righteousness Sun. Rather, Paul states it was a tutor to lead us to Christ (Galatians 3:24). In remembering the law and anticipating the promise set forth in Malachi, the people would then be prepared for the coming of Christ.   Understanding this, in verse 4:6 where it speaks of turning the heart of the fathers upon sons, and heart sons upon fathers, that is not a verse describing immediate family relations, as in, “He will turn the people in the families to love one another.” Rather, it is a word concerning the Hebrew people as a whole. The fathers are the patriarchs, especially Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.   The children are those who had misunderstood both the promise to the patriarchs and the purpose of the law. The heart of the fathers was that of promise while trusting in the gospel of the grace of God. Paul explains this in Galatians 3 –   “And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel to Abraham beforehand, saying, ‘In you all the nations shall be blessed.' 9 So then those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham.”  ... “And this I say, that the law, which was four hundred and thirty years later, cannot annul the covenant that was confirmed before by God in Christ, that it should make the promise of no effect. 18 For if the inheritance is of the law, it is no longer of promise; but God gave it to Abraham by promise.” Galatians 3:8, 9, & 17, 18   The hearts of the children, the unbelievers of Israel, will have their hearts turned to the hearts of the fathers who trusted the gospel of Christ as a certain and sure promise. If they do not turn their hearts, the warning of the curse of the law stands firm.   In the last words of Malachi concerning the curse, the Old Testament ends with the word kherem, anathema. It speaks of the utter destruction or ban of something. It is a fitting end to the thirty-nine books of law.   Only with the hope of God in Christ is there life and renewed fellowship with God. Only in understanding the gospel can that state be realized. In Matthew 23:36, Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, all these things will come upon this generation.”   The nation as a whole rejected Jesus, remained under the law, and fell under the ban because of it. The second fulfillment will be for those of Israel who continue to reject Jesus during the tribulation. However, for the nation, that will eventually end. The land of Israel, symbolized by Jerusalem, was anathema because of Israel's rejection of Jesus. This is seen in Zechariah 14:11 –   “The people shall dwell in it; And no longer shall there be utter destruction [kherem], But Jerusalem shall be safely inhabited.”   This prophecy concerns the future when Israel finally receives Jesus. Only when the hearts of the children are turned to the hearts of the fathers will this time of woe for Israel end. The day is coming, and the world is being readied for it with the return of Israel to her land. The nation has been reestablished, prophecies of the past have come to their fulfillment, and many more prophecies are set to be fulfilled.   Our trust is not to be in the Law of Moses but in the One who is spoken of there and throughout all of Scripture. It is not easy to let go and place ourselves solely under the authority of another, but we must do so.   Let us not fail to put our trust in Him. Anything else will not carry us through to the restoration that God offers to His people. Yes, let us trust solely in the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord.   Lord God, may our faith in You grow each day as we rely solely on the grace of Jesus Christ. Help us never to put ourselves into the salvation equation except as receiving it by faith and being grateful for what He did. Thank You for Jesus our Savior! Amen.  

Hosts Pastor Robert Baltodano and Pastor Lloyd Pulley Question Timestamps: Magali, PA (3:24) - What does the phrase "be prepared with your lamp of oil" mean? Michael, Facebook (5:08) - If someone believes that baptism saves you, are they going to go to heaven? Dawn, NJ (8:16) - In Matthew 5:27, Jesus says we aren't to get divorced unless our husband commits adultery, but what about situations where there is abuse? Valerie, email (11:05) - Do I need to get baptized again as an adult? I was baptized as a baby because my mother was Catholic. Calvary Young Adults Q&A (12:55) - How do I get over the condemnation I feel around my Christian friends? I feel like a hypocrite. Calvary Young Adults Q&A (14:33) - I want to start dating, but I'm waiting on the Lord's timing. How do I do this? Magali, Facebook (17:49) - If someone has never been baptized, but has been led to the Lord, accepted Him, and recited the sinner's prayer, is their name written in the Book of Life? Lauren, Facebook (20:11) - What is the Biblical evidence against women being pastors? Calvary Young Adults Q&A (23:37) - What are some practical steps to take towards finding God's calling and specific will for your life? Ryan, ID (26:52) - Can you rephrase what you said about dating earlier? Carmen, YouTube (33:39) - How do I speak to my siblings about grief and loss? They think our loved ones watch over us when they die. We were raised Catholic. Dave, email (37:43) - In 1 Corinthians 14, the gift of tongues and the gift of prophecy are compared. Are verses 22-24 contradictory? Calvary Young Adults Q&A (39:43) - How should I handle feelings for a guy friend while honoring the Lord? Should I express my feelings or wait for him to show his? John, email (42:21) - Why does 2 Kings 11 refer to the king by two names "Joash" and "Jehoash?" Reona, VA (43:47) - Who are "gods?" I know we are made in God's image. Can you clarify John 10:31-35 and Psalm 82:6? Calvary Young Adults Q&A  (46:06) - What does it mean to be "born again?" Calvary Young Adults Q&A (49:06) - How do I deal with sexual thoughts from past relationships that pop up in my mind randomly? Bryan, YouTube (51:00) - My friend has a job and cares for his wife and kids very well, yet in many instances he is very lazy. Is laziness a sin? Pat, NJ (53:38) - Is it Biblical for people in my Bible study to call themselves "apostles?" Ask Your Question: 888-712-7434 Answers@bbtlive.org

In Matthew 13, Jesus tells a story about poisonous weeds sown in a field of wheat. Jesus is reminding us of the fact that evil is real and encouraging us to stay awake and vigilant. God is gracious and patient, but we still need to make sure we end up on the right side when all is said and done! If you prefer to listen, stream, and/or watch, join us and subscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kingwoodmethodist

Last week, we explored Mark 7 as the religious leaders challenged Jesus about their traditions of ritual washing. To the religious leaders, being clean before God was about outward actions and religious rituals. Jesus called them hypocrites, referencing Isaiah 29 to describe their outward religion but hearts that are far from God. Jesus then explained that what defiles a person before God is a fallen heart, and only Jesus can transform our hearts to make us right with God. In the rest of Chapter 7, Jesus demonstrates that the clean/unclean distinction also applies to the nations. He travels outside of Israel and gives the same preview of covenant blessings to Gentiles. In Tyre and Sidon, Gentile regions considered impure by the Pharisees, a Syrophoenician woman (referred to as a Canaanite woman in Matthew's account) pleads with Jesus to cast out the unclean spirit that afflicts her daughter. Jesus's immediate response to her request is unexpected. Instead of granting her request, Jesus says it is not yet time for the "dogs" to be fed. First, the children (the Jews) must be fed. However, despite her status as an outsider, her humble and persistent faith leads Jesus to fulfill her request. (Matthew 15 highlights her faith.) Furthermore, this unclean Gentile woman is the first in Mark's gospel to recognize Jesus' kingdom ministry and mission. (In Matthew's account, she even calls Him the Son of David.) Her heart is laid bare before us that we might see her humble and persistent faith, which leads her to see clearer than the disciples and the Jewish religious leaders. Then, in the Gentile region of Decapolis, Jesus heals a deaf-mute man by touching his ears and tongue—acts that would have horrified the Pharisees. His touch and word bring healing, which is also a preview of the kingdom where the effects of sin will be abolished. The Gentiles who witness this miracle say, "He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak" (v. 37). Isaiah 35:5-6 foretells that this is exactly what the Messiah will do when he comes to His people. And here He is—doing so among the Gentiles. These two Gentile healings follow Jesus' teaching about what constitutes clean and unclean before God. Previously, Jesus taught that the heart is humanity's problem; now, we see how that problem is solved for both Jew and Gentile. By grace through faith, sinners enter the kingdom of God and are heirs to the promise of Abraham. (See Gal. 3:7-9; 29). The woman and the deaf-mute man show us that Jesus' grace is for all nations, no matter how unworthy we feel. By grace, all may come to Him in humble faith and be adopted into God's family. Regardless of our sins or past, Jesus "has done (has made) all things well." Setting v. 24 I. The Persistent Faith Of A Gentile Woman (v. 25-30) II. Jesus' Powerful Touch Of Grace (v. 31-35) III. The Proclamation Of God's Messiah (v. 36-37)