Podcasts about in matthew

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”Former Border Patrol Deputy Agent JJ Carroll pulls back the curtain on America's darkest secret: government-facilitated child trafficking at our border. With 24 years of frontline experience, Carroll delivers a harrowing account of how our federal agencies became active participants in the largest child sex trafficking operation in modern history.The numbers are staggering and the implications horrifying. Upwards of 550,000 unaccompanied children crossed our border under the Biden administration—and all were subsequently lost in the system. Carroll explains how critical safeguards like DNA testing and background checks for sponsors were deliberately removed, creating a pipeline that delivered vulnerable children directly into the hands of traffickers and predators.What makes this crisis particularly disturbing is the complicity of trusted institutions. Religious organizations including Catholic Charities received billions in federal funding to transport migrants from the border into America's interior with minimal oversight. Meanwhile, Congressional leaders show shocking indifference when presented with evidence of trafficking, suggesting deeper corruption than most Americans are willing to acknowledge.Visit JJCarrell.com to learn more and watch his testimony to congress! Read Jacks latest Blog on Substack: "Awakened by Beauty, Commissioned for Battle, Seeking Adventure"For Discussion:Reflect on Personal Integrity and Moral Courage: America's status as the world's leading consumer of child pornography contributes to the broader crisis of child sex trafficking, warning that young men addicted to porn risk losing their hearts and the country itself. Drawing from John Paul II's Theology of the Body, which emphasizes the sacred dignity of the human person and warns against reducing others to objects of use, how can young men examine their own habits—such as exposure to pornography—and cultivate the courage to reject it, thereby standing against the exploitation of children? (Reference: John Paul II, Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body, Audience 24-29 on lust and objectification.)Protecting the Innocent as a Faith Imperative: JJ describes horrific abuses in trafficking, including children being "raped to death" for profit. Connect this to a profound spiritual decay in society. In Matthew 18:6, Jesus warns that it would be better to have a millstone tied around one's neck than to cause a little one to stumble. How might men discern their role in confronting institutional complicity—such as in religious organizations or government policies—and take concrete steps to protect children's innocence in their communities?From Awareness to Action in a Window of Opportunity: With the election of Donald Trump we have a "narrow window" to address the crisis. Christian men, there is an urgency to rebuild a society that values innocence. Consider Proverbs 31:8-9: "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute." As young men sensing "something's wrong" in culture, how can you move beyond voting or passive awareness to bold, faith-driven actions against child sex trafficking and pornography, such as volunteering with anti-trafficking groups or educating peers?Support the show

Wednesday, 13 August 2025   If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand? Matthew 12:26   “And if the Satan, he ejects the Satan, he divided upon himself. How then, it will stand, his kingdom?” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted what would happen if a kingdom were divided against itself. Using the same idea to ensure the point is understood, He next says, “And if the Satan, he ejects the Satan, he divided upon himself.”   This is the second time that Satan is mentioned in the New Testament. The first time was in Matthew 4:10 during Christ's temptation in the wilderness. At times, it is stated as a name or an appellative, as in Matthew 4:10. In Matthew 4:10, it said, “Withdraw, you Satan!” The meaning is probably closest to, “Withdraw, you Accuser!”   In this verse, both times it is preceded by a definite article, “the Satan” and thus “the Accuser.” Thus, it signifies, “And if the Accuser, he ejects the Accuser, he divided upon himself.” As such, it is not that one of his subordinates is ejecting another. It is as if he is ejecting himself.   It would be comparable to Joe Biden picking himself up and tossing himself out of the White House. That may be something the general public wished had taken place, but if it did, it would mean that he would no longer be in the White House. Instead, the American public was relieved of him in another way.   The point of Jesus' words is that what the Pharisees accuse Jesus of, meaning casting out demons by the ruler of demons, signifies that when a demon enters a person, Satan has essentially entered that person as well. When Satan ejects a demon, he ejects himself. The thought is contradictory to furthering his goals, but more, it is contradictory to logic.   The words are not present tense, saying, “he is divided against himself.” Rather, the verb being aorist says, “he divided himself.” The division is stated regardless of a particular time. It is simply a fact that at some point, when Satan takes such an action, he has at that time divided himself.   As for Jesus' continued words in such an instance, He remarks concerning the Accuser, “How then, it will stand, his kingdom?” The question demands a negative response: “It cannot.” If the verb were present tense, “he is divided against himself,” it could mean he could repair the division.   However, with the aorist verb, “he divided himself,” the repair is impossible. Therefore, just as a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand, Satan ejecting himself from his subjects has caused his kingdom to fall.   Logically, then, if Satan had given Jesus the authority to cast out demons, he would have given Him the authority to cast himself out. The proposition is ludicrous to even the poorest thinker. As such, Jesus is thoroughly shaming the thought processes of the Pharisees who spoke before thinking.   Life application: Jesus speaks of Satan as a real entity. He acknowledges angels and demons as well. Paul also speaks of the spiritual battle that believers face in Ephesians 6. Unfortunately, Christians cling to this as if we could lose the battle. They dwell on the negative aspect as if it is something that could thoroughly overwhelm us.   Hollywood is great with this, leading people to assume that Satan can steal away people's souls while making no distinction between believers and unbelievers. In the case of believers, this is incorrect. Jesus has prevailed over Satan and his demons.   During this life, we can be afflicted by these spiritual forces, but if we are in Christ, we will never again be subject to their permanent rule. Paul even tells us of this in 1 Corinthians 5. Speaking of a wayward believer, he says, “...deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.”   Paul's words of Ephesians 6 give us instruction for conducting our lives as Christians during this life, not “for” the next life. If you want to be free from spiritual affliction, follow the guidelines given there. But your eternal destiny, that of full restoration with God through Christ Jesus, was settled when you believed the gospel.   Don't have the defeated attitude that so many Christians carry around with them. Christ has prevailed! In Him, we too have prevailed. The more we rely on Him and what He has done, the surer we will be that this is true. Stand firm in your salvation, apply the words of Scripture to your life, and don't let the accuser and his minions rob you of your joy in Christ.   Lord God, thank You that because Christ has prevailed, we too have prevailed. May we stand fast in our salvation, knowing that we are free from law and therefore free from the imputation of sin. As this is so, we are free from the consequences that result from breaking the law. Satan can no longer hold such against us. Thank You, O God, that Jesus has prevailed! Amen.  

This Sunday Pastor Josh Kelsey reminds us that our own goodness will never meet God's standard. In Matthew 5:20 and 5:48, Jesus raises the bar to perfection not to discourage us, but to show that only His righteousness can save. The Pharisees measured themselves against people. Jesus says the measure is God Himself. At the cross, He took our imperfection and gave us His perfection. In His resurrection, He gave us new hearts so we live from love, not performance. Stop comparing. Stop striving. Receive the righteousness only Jesus can give. 

Peter was a man of passion and boldness. He was the first one to say something, but also the first one to do something about it. He was a Lion Chaser. In Matthew 14:22-33, he got out of his boat, because God called him to. He learned that it was better to sink than to sit. Better to speak up than always remain silent. The other disciples may have criticized him, but they did so, from the comfort confines of the boat. Do you need to step out in faith and get out of the boat?  What, or who are you chasing today?  What has your affections?  Keep your eyes on JESUS!

In Matthew 26:17-29, we see that at the Last Supper, Jesus revealed Himself as the true Passover Lamb, come to redeem us and lead us to the eternal feast.

In Matthew 12, the Pharisees criticized Jesus' disciples for picking grain on the Sabbath. Jesus replied with Hosea 6:6: “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” In that moment, He challenged the belief that God values perfect behavior more than people. God's heart has always been for mercy, not burdensome religion. Many walk away from faith feeling crushed by impossible standards, but Jesus reveals a different picture - God's priority is relationship, not rule-keeping. When we grasp this, it changes how we see Him and how we show Him to others.

As Christians who are to walk by faith and not by sight, the statements Jesus made about having faith as a mustard seed are sure appealing. In Luke, Jesus says faith like a mustard seed can uproot a tree and toss it into the sea. In Matthew, he said mustard-seed faith can move a mountain and make nothing impossible for us! So, what did Jesus mean? Obviously, he was using picture language, but he was still showing us that mustard-seed faith can dramatically change our lives. Why a mustard seed and how does this work? What do we need to do to have such a strong and foundational faith that the obstacles of our lives will be diminished before us? The disciples asked Jesus to increase their faith after hearing difficult teachings about forgiveness and accountability. Jesus' response to their request was the mustard seed analogy. His purpose was not to highlight minimal faith, but rather to illustrate faith's capacity to grow and overcome great obstacles. You of little faith In related teachings, Jesus used the phrase “you of little faith” on four separate occasions. Applying these lessons in the order they were given reveals a progressive development of our mustard seed faith: Magnitude: In calming the storm (Matthew 8), Jesus showed that mustard seed faith must recognize the vast power of God. The disciples had faith but lacked confidence. Practicality: In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6), Jesus taught that this kind of faith should relieve anxiety by trusting in God's provision. Deliverance: Peter walking on water (Matthew 14) demonstrated that mustard seed faith enables us to step out in trust, even if we falter. Jesus' rescue of Peter showed compassionate support for growing faith. Guidance: When the disciples misunderstood Jesus' warning about leaven (Matthew 16), he corrected them, urging spiritual discernment over physical concerns. This kind of faith must be nurtured, tested and matured. It begins small but is rooted in the right foundation: God's truth and Christ's example. Mustard seed faith is all about transformation, starting small but growing strong through life's trials and divine guidance.

Jesus Followers Have a Personal Relationship with the Creator of the Universe So Pray, Listen, and Be Patient for God's Call MESSAGE SUMMARY: No interaction with the Holy Spirit is too small for you or for God, and no Spiritual outcomes are too big for you or for God. Jesus illustrates, in the “Parable of the Mustard Seed", that big things come from small beginnings. The selection, by Jesus, of His initial twelve Apostles, led to the growth of Christianity from twelve followers to more than two billion Christians. So, when God gives you a vision or He puts on your heart to start a ministry or to visit the home bound; and you think the Spirit's is so small or inconsequential, just remember small beginnings lead to significant outcomes through the Lord. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus commissions and promises His support to His Apostles and to us; therefore, how can any call, from the Holy Spirit, be too inconsequential or unsupported for us to embrace: “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.'” Pray, listen, and be patient. After all, you have a personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe!   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 20:1-16; Philippians 2:21-30; Matthew 25:34-46; Psalms 37b:11-20 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 Sermons on the Amount, Part 4 - The Devastation of Debt” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/    DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

This week Brett Gleason preaches from Matthew 6:9-13. In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches that prayer is an intimate yet reverent conversation with God—more about relationship than ritual. The Lord's Prayer models this balance, beginning with God's priorities—his name, kingdom, and will—then turning to our needs for provision, forgiveness, and guidance. “Our Father in heaven” holds both his nearness and majesty, inviting us to pray with trust and humility, knowing we are heard and loved as his children.

I want my kids to do well. I want them to see how growth now leads to a reward later. Some bad habits die only painfully. But there is a promise of something good, something better, something more permanent. And I realize this is always a hard sell for kids, but “I PROMISE that you will be glad you pressed through the pain and pursued the good.”In Matthew 7, Jesus says essentially “Given that you are corrupted by your own sinful nature and you still lead your children into what is good, imagine how committed and capable a perfect God is in leading YOU toward what is good.This Sunday we will examine Revelation chapters 2 & 3. What we find is a beautiful example of a loving God who is deeply committed to the eternal good of his children. And there are some painful parts.

Audio reading: Deut 4:6-31, Ezra 10:1-44, 1 Cor 6:1-20, Psalm 31:9-18, Prov 21:3Join 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!

Audio reading: Deut 3:23-4:5, Ezra 8:21-9:15, 1 Cor 5:1-13, Psalm 31:1-8, Prov 21:1-2Join 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!

Your Uncertainty and Fear Lead to Anxiety; About What Are You Anxious, and Have You “let your requests be made known to God”? MESSAGE SUMMARY:  From Philippians 6, Paul tells us: “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”. What are you anxious about? If you are in Christ, Jesus tells us to present our request to the Lord. In Matthew 6:6-8, Jesus instructs His followers how to come to God in prayer: “But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.". If you are in Christ, you can talk to God and present your issues and requests to Him as if He knows nothing about your situation. You must ask God through your regular prayer life and your personal relationship with God, the Creator of the Universe. What are you anxious about? In Matthew 6:34, Jesus assures His followers that “anxiety” is counterproductive: “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, after his loss, you gave Job prosperity, blessing him with twice as much as he had before, but that has not always felt like my experience. Grant me patience. Help me to trust and wait on you, especially in those areas of my life where I have no idea what you are doing, when my hardship will end, or where you are taking me. In Jesus' name, amen.                   Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 115). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Heartlessness. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Kindness. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): Matthew 6:31-34; Philippians 4:5-7; Matthew 6:6-8; Psalms 35b:15-28. 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 Sermons on the Amount, Part 3 - You are God's Supervisor” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Daily Dose of Hope August 8, 2025   Scripture - Luke 5:27-39   Prayer:  Holy God, Almighty Father, the Great I AM, Throughout all time, You are good.  Your ways are perfect.  Teach us your ways, Lord.  Help us to know you better, to know you more.  Lord, on our own, we are powerless.  We are desperate for your wisdom, love, and mercy.  More of you and less of me, Jesus.  Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts. Today, we finish Luke 5.   I realized when I sat down to write that yesterday I got a little bit ahead of myself.  Levi's banquet was supposed to be covered today.  I guess I got a little excited about Jesus dining with the tax collectors.  Jesus did some pretty powerful ministry around the dinner table.  Keep in mind, in ancient near-east culture, who you broke bread with was really important – it meant that you accepted those people, you were connected to them.  Respectable Jews would not eat with Gentiles or anyone deemed unclean.  But Jesus continually scandalized others by whom he chose to eat with, with who he allowed to be at his table.  He very strategically used the meal as a way to demonstrate who he is, what he values, and what we are to value.  Levi's dinner was no exception.  He scandalized the Pharisees by sitting and eating with the tax collectors.   There really is something powerful about sitting around the dinner table with someone.  Even when we don't agree with the people, sitting and chatting over a good meal, building trust, is absolutely worth it.  Who do you need to invite over for dinner?   The final portion of today's Scripture is about fasting.  We don't have a strong tradition of fasting, but it is definitely Biblical.  Let's think about the purpose of fasting.  It's a spiritual discipline that involves abstaining from food (or something else, but usually food) in order to focus more on God and grow spiritually.  There is a lot of precedent in Scripture for fasting.    Let me start by saying that Jesus is no way condemning fasting in this passage.  In verse 35, he is making it clear that his disciples will fast.  In Matthew 6, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus states, “when you fast...” not “if you fast...”   But in this passage, Jesus is also teaching about feasting.  There are times to fast and there are times to feast.  When we feast, we celebrate what God is doing or has done in our lives.  We relish in the victory of Jesus Christ.    What is the occasion for the feast in today's passage?  Well, Jesus himself is there, present with his disciples.  They don't know it yet, but Jesus' coming marks the beginning of the New Covenant, which God had been promising for hundreds of years.  Jesus takes this a step further by giving some of the new vs. old comparisons.  He is doing a new thing.  You don't use new fabric to repair an old garment.  Likewise, you don't put new wine in old wineskins.  Jesus is doing something new and it will require a new way of thinking, a new way of doing life.  They are celebrating that new way of doing life with a big feast!   Blessings, Pastor Vicki        

Audio reading: Deut 3:11-22, Ezra 7:1-8:20, 1 Cor 4:1-21, Psalm 30:1-12, Prov 20:28-30Join 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!

Audio reading: Deut 3:1-10, Ezra 4:24-6:22, 1 Cor 3:5-23, Psalm 29:1-11, Prov 20:26-27Join 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!

In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches his disciples to pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done. In this sermon, we explore the dangerous but transformative prayer: Lead me. We unpack what it means to truly let go of control and allow God to shape our lives around his holiness, his kingdom, and his will.

In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches his disciples to pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done. In this sermon, we explore the dangerous but transformative prayer: Lead me. We unpack what it means to truly let go of control and allow God to shape our lives around his holiness, his kingdom, and his will.

In Matthew 16:13-20, Simon Peter declares Jesus is the Messiah they've long waited for. As a result of his bold faith, Jesus changed his name to Peter (which means “rock”). Jesus then declared He would build His church upon Himself. This radical exchange reveals several things about the church triumphant. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/135/29

It's Monday, August 4th, 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 Adam McManus Cuban pastor harassed Cuban pastor Maikel Velázquez vanished about 14 hours after delivering epilepsy medication to a friend's granddaughter on July 9th in the island country, reports International Christian Concern. Velázquez delivered the medicine to the granddaughter of Marta Benites, whose sons were imprisoned for participating in a peaceful protest in July 2021 in San José de las Lajas, Mayabeque. Immediately after the delivery, Velázquez was abruptly barred from entering the Benites home. Moments after completing a phone call with another pastor, he disappeared. His phone was instantly switched off, severing all contact. Pastors from the Alliance of Christians of Cuba launched a search for Velázquez, combing hospitals, detention centers, and police stations — yet their efforts yielded no clue to his whereabouts. At around 2:00 a.m. on July 10th, Velázquez was discovered outside his home, clearly shaken after enduring a traumatic interrogation and serious threats. When questioned, he would not disclose details of the incident and behaved erratically, sometimes yelling and at other times falling eerily silent. Pastor Velázquez's abduction is only the most recent in a string of alarming cases of pastoral harassment in Cuba. In John 15:18, Jesus said, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated Me first.” According to Open Doors, Cuba is the 26th most dangerous country worldwide for Christians. Corporation for Public Broadcasting is shutting down The Corporation for Public Broadcasting announced it is shutting down, reports American Family Radio. Congress created it in 1967 with the Public Broadcasting Act in order to promote educational and cultural programming that was not being done by the three broadcast networks.  With a current half-billion dollar annual budget, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting is now most known for overseeing liberal news outlet National Public Radio and the liberal network PBS. Back in May, President Trump signed an executive order to stop taxpayer funded biased media. Republican-hating NPR sued to challenge that order and told the court any decision to cut off funding must come from Congress.  With that challenge in the courts, the White House sent a rescissions package to Congress in late May. The GOP-led House passed the measure 214-212. In the U.S. Senate, Vice President J.D. Vance cast the tie vote for passage.  Heritage Foundation senior fellow Mike Gonzalez said a nation that is $36 trillion in debt should not be paying for news coverage that tells half the country to "get lost" because of its political beliefs.  HR15 enables perversion and abortion for public school minors Liberty Counsel took a case to the U.S. Supreme Court to ensure that parents  are allowed to opt their children out of homosexual and transgender indoctrination in public schools. However, if House Resolution 15 passes, it will open the floodgates and will force parents, counselors, and teachers to celebrate this destructive behavior. This bill has been introduced in both the current U.S. House and Senate. HR 15 — the misnamed “Equality Act” — will be a nightmare for everyone, warns Liberty Counsel Action. Every Democrat has signed on to the bill. And some Republicans voted for a prior version of HR 15. The margins are slim, and we could lose this battle if we remain silent. The battle in Congress will be fierce, but we must stop this bill for four reasons. First, if the child becomes confused by the propaganda at public schools — mandated by HR 15 — to think a person can choose their sex like they choose clothes, there will be no one to help them learn the truth. The child can demand hormone-blocking drugs (stopping puberty), opposite-sex hormones, and even surgery to remove healthy body parts. Parents will have no say, nor will the hospitals, health care providers, or pharmacists. Insurance and taxpayer funds will cover the expense. If the parents object, this will be considered child abuse, and the child could be removed from the home. Second, if someone pressures a young girl to get an abortion, she will have no one to protect her from this life-and-death decision. The so-called Equality Act will make abortion a federal right through all nine months. It will pre-empt every state law — including parental notification or consent and informed consent. The parents will have no say, nor will the hospitals, health care workers, or pharmacists.  Insurance companies cannot refuse coverage, and our taxes will fund the killing of innocent life. If parents, health care providers, or pharmacists resist the abortion, they can be sued by the U.S. Department of Justice, private individuals, and organizations — including Planned Parenthood. Third, if the child asks the parents for help to overcome unwanted homosexual attractions, behaviors, or gender confusion, there will be no one to help. The so-called Equality Act will make it illegal to provide any such counsel to help overcome these unwanted attractions, behaviors, or confusion. In fact, this bill makes such counsel illegal for all ages and for any counsel — licensed and unlicensed — and this includes pastoral counseling. Fourth, this dangerous bill will require Christian adoption and foster care ministries to place children in homosexual and transgender homes. And remember, the “Q” in LGBTQ encompasses nearly 550 paraphilias — which includes pedophilia! There will be no one to help these innocent children! In Matthew 18:6, Jesus said, “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in Me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” Send faxes to Congress to stop the so-called Equality Act from endangering public school kids.  We have the special link for you in the transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. Remember, some Republicans voted for a prior version of HR 15. The margins are slim, and we could lose this battle if we remain silent. White House Ballroom to add 90,000 square feet and cost $200 million And finally, the White House is about to get a major physical upgrade – a new ballroom. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt made the announcement. LEAVITT:  “We are proud to announce that the construction of the new White House ballroom will begin. For 150 years, presidents, administrations and White House staff have longed for a large event space on the White House complex that can hold substantially more guests than currently allowed. President Trump has expressed his commitment to solving this problem on behalf of future administrations and the American people. “The White House is currently unable to host major functions, honoring world leaders and other countries, without having to install a large and unsightly tent approximately 100 yards away from the main building's entrance. “The White House State ballroom will be a much needed and exquisite addition of approximately 90,000 total square feet of carefully crafted space, with a seated capacity of 650 people, which is a significant increase from the 200-person seated capacity in the East Room of the White House.” Leavitt revealed the price tag and that it would not be paid for with tax dollars. LEAVITT: “President Trump and other donors have generously committed to donating the funds necessary to build this approximately $200 million structure.” White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles said, “President Trump is a builder at heart and has an extraordinary eye for detail.” … He is “fully committed to working with the appropriate organizations to preserving the special history of the White House.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, August 4th, 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 26:1-16, we see that how much you value Jesus will show in your words, in your actions, and in what you are willing to trade for treachery. 

More and more people are stepping away from organized religion, but that doesn't mean they've stopped looking for God. Jesus showed a different way - meeting people where they were, leading with compassion instead of judgment. In Matthew 15, when He fed the 4,000, He invited His disciples to be part of the miracle, showing that following Him means making space for others. A different kind of church does the same - it sees people's stories, offers grace before rules, and invites participation without pressure to conform. It's not about giving up truth; it's about living it the way Jesus did - with love. 

In Matthew 5, Jesus teaches that if a man divorces his wife with the exception of infidelity, causes her to commit adultery. What is Jesus getting at with this teaching? Let's dive in as Pastor Clark teaches on the meaning of Christian marriage, biblical cause for divorce, and a case for remarriage.

In Matthew 16:13-20, Simon Peter declares Jesus is the Messiah they've long waited for. As a result of his bold faith, Jesus changed his name to Peter (which means “rock”). Jesus then declared He would build His church upon Himself. This radical exchange reveals several things about the church triumphant. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/135/29

As a child of the 1950s and 60s, I grew up in the era when “America’s pastime” was baseball. I couldn’t wait to go to the park and play ball, and one of my greatest thrills was when I received my baseball jersey emblazoned with our team’s name—GIANTS! Though the number 9 on the back distinguished me from the others, the common uniform identified us as being on the same team. In Matthew 5:3-10, known as the Beatitudes, Jesus identified those who belong to the kingdom of heaven as those who “wear the jersey” of Christlikeness. The kingdom of heaven is comprised of those who assume the posture and character of their king. According to Jesus, “blessed” persons aren’t characterized by external appearance, health, or possessions. Rather, it’s the inside or heart, of a person that counts. “Blessed are the poor in spirit” (v. 3)—the humble—those who are spiritually needy and know it. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness” (v. 6)—those whose soul’s yearning is to please and honor God. “Blessed are the peacemakers” (v. 9)—those who join Jesus in the pursuit of harmony. As the Spirit helps us, we can put on the garment of Christlikeness, which identifies us as believers in Jesus and members of His team. As such, we’re blessed indeed!

You Have Authority!Romans 12:2 “ Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.”Last night I attended the Encounter School of Ministries Summer Intensive at the Boston Campus. If you have never attended an event from Encounter Ministries, I highly recommend checking them out. They are amazing and filled with the Holy Spirit! The summer Intensive is an overview of the curriculum for the first year. There are four quarters in a year of the Encounter School, and there are 8 weeks in each quarter. First, it starts with a quarter on Identity because you need to understand who you are in the Kingdom of God and why you have the authority that you have. The next quarter is on the prophetic word and hearing God's voice. In the third quarter, you learn how to be God's instrument for physical healings. In the fourth quarter, you learn all about inner healing and how to lead people to freedom.The summer intensive is four nights, and it provides an overview of each quarter over those four nights. Last night, we were learning about identity. Who are we in the Kingdom of God? What authority do we have here on earth, and where did we get that authority? Everything we have and everything we are is a gift from God. God gave us life. He formed us, and He brought us into this world. He sent His only Son to die on a cross so that we might be free from our sins and our sinful nature.What I would like to discuss with you today is how we use that authority, and I would like to review some scripture verses that demonstrate our call to a renewal of the mind. Let's look at today's scripture verse. “ Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” This verse shows us that we need to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. What does that mean, though? How do we renew our minds?God is the only one who can help us have a renewal of mind. God wanted to bring His kingdom down to earth, and he wants to do that through us. He doesn't want us to sit by and watch as He does everything. He also doesn't want us to just pray for the things we want and not do anything about them. Praying is great, and we should all be praying. And also, there are times when we can ask the Lord to allow us to be His instruments here on earth. Wouldn't it be awesome if, instead of asking God to heal someone, you prayed for their healing and he did it through you? Did you know that Jesus gave us the authority to do things like that?If we look at John 14:12, it says, “Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father. Jesus went to be with the Father, and when He did, He asked the Father to send us the Holy Spirit to live inside of us. If you are baptized, then you have the Holy Spirit living inside of you. This means you can do the works that Jesus did and even greater works. Jesus did not perform all his miracles using his divine powers. He performed all those miracles using the power of the Holy Spirit. The same Holy Spirit that you have living inside of you.If you don't believe someone could do greater works than Jesus did look at Acts 5:12-15. It says, “Now many signs and wonders were done among the people through the apostles. And they were all together in Solomon's Portico.  None of the rest dared to join them, but the people held them in high esteem. Yet more than ever believers were added to the Lord, great numbers of both men and women, so that they even carried out the sick into the streets, and laid them on cots and mats, in order that Peter's shadow might fall on some of them as he came by.” There is no record in the Bible of people being healed by Jesus's shadow and yet they were healed when Peter's shadow fell upon them. In Acts 19:11-12, “God did extraordinary miracles through Paul,  so that when the handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were brought to the sick, their diseases left them, and the evil spirits came out of them.”God wants to use you too! He wants us to help him bring heaven to earth. During the talk at Encounter they talked about how when Jesus did the miracle of feeding the multitudes, He didn't pray over the bread and fish and suddenly there was this giant mound of bread and fish. The multiplication happened over and over again once the apostles started handing the food out. Jesus wanted them to partake in the miracle as well. When it says in the Bible that those who believe will do even greater works than He did, it is not just talking about the apostles. It would be easier for us if He was because then it would take the responsibility off of us. However, He is sending us all out to help bring heaven to earth. In Matthew 10:1 it says, “Then Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every disease and every sickness.”It is true that Jesus did send the apostles out to go do mighty works in His name. However, we know that Jesus didn't reserve doing these mighty works to the apostles because in Luke 10:1-2 it says, “After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go.  He said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore, ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” Those 70 represent all God's faithful. Are you baptized? Do you believe in Jesus. Then you are called to go out and help bring others into the kingdom. You have the power and authority living inside of you to carry out mighty works in Jesus's name!The devil doesn't want you to know this. He wants you to believe that you are powerless. He whispers in your ear that you should leave the mighty works to those more qualified. He says you should leave the miracles up to the priests and religious brothers and sisters. He tells you that others may be able to heal but that you are not worthy. He goes on and on about how you have no power. The devil is a liar. (Side note: if you don't know that song, The Devil is a Liar by Colton Dixon, you should definitely look it up and give it a listen). He knows all about the authority God has given you and yet he hopes that you won't ever realize the power you have living inside of you. He will do all he can to keep you feeling stuck and powerless and unworthy.Don't give the devil that satisfaction of thinking he has won. Fight back. Learn more about the authority you have and then start living in it. As simple way to do this is to spend time in the Acts of the Apostles. If they could do it, so can you. There was nothing special about them other than they believed Jesus when He gave them the authority. They were brave enough to step out, even though they were scared, and give it a try. The other simple way to do this is to start talking to the Holy Spirit living inside of you. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you what authority you have. Ask Him to show you how powerfully God wants to use you.I said earlier that God is the one who renews our minds. Allow Him to do that. Invite Him into your heart and mind and ask Him to renew them for you. You can do all things through Christ Jesus. So ask Jesus to help you become the person He wants you to be. Ask Jesus to show you what He is calling you to and how He wants to use you. Let the Lord know that even though you might be scared, you are willing and available for Him to use you as His instrument. You are more powerful than you think. Don't come into agreement with the lies of the enemy. Live in the authority and power that God has given to you!Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless all those listening. Lord, please help us to understand this authority and power that you have given us. Help us understand how to live in that authority and power. Lord, we don't understand, and we need you to teach us and guide us. Please give us the strength to do the things you are calling us to do, even if we do it scared. We love you so much, Lord, and we ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus's holy name, Amen!Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. I will be sending info out in a newsletter about the upcoming retreat. If you are not currently receiving my newsletter, I invite you to sign up below the show notes. It is a great way to keep up to date on any offers I might have as well as some great information.Today's Word from the Lord was received in January 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have any questions about the prayer group, these words, or how to join us for a meeting, please email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is, “I am your God. Surrender yourself fully to me so that I can use you in my ways. Only if you are used in my way will you become far more productive.” www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

Sin doesn't just want a piece of you it wants all of you. In Matthew 5:29–30, Jesus uses intense language to show how seriously we should treat sin. He's not asking us to self-mutilate, but to cut off anything that keeps us bound. It's a call to action, not passivity to flee from what entices us, before it devours us. Pastor Amy Perez reminds us that inaction is just as dangerous as wrong action. Like David with Bathsheba, it often starts with small compromises. But God's grace isn't just to forgive it's to train us. Discipline isn't legalism; it's the path to freedom. What we surrender may feel costly, but what we gain in Christ is worth far more.

Have you ever gotten tired of treading water?Martha is a 20-something-old lifeguard in Los Angeles. Besides dealing with deck chairs purposely thrown into the water and parents asking her to babysit poolside, she's noticed another aspect of the job that really tugs at your heart. “Kids pretend to drown in the pool so that I will pay attention to them.” Wow. Think about that.At a young age, humans need to be nurtured and cared for. They want to be loved. So, a young lifeguard becomes their emotional lifeline. These kids were actually pretending to nearly die so that someone would pay attention. It's pretty sad, but not that different from the rest of us. Everyone wants to belong, and sometimes life is like a raging storm, and problems can flood the soul.In Matthew 14, we read the story of Jesus providing comfort to His disciples in a difficult situation. He had gone to pray on a mountain while they stayed behind in a boat on the Sea of Galilee. Normally, this is a very picturesque, calm lake, but this night, a storm came up. As the waves were about to capsize the boat, the men looked and saw a figure walking on the water. Peter cried out, and Jesus told him to get out of the boat and walk toward Him. Peter, known for his passionate faith, got out. But as he took his eyes off Jesus and began looking at the storm around him, he sank. Jesus, though, grabbed his arm and pulled him up. “Why did you doubt?” He asked Peter. It's a valid question for anyone.Jesus has proven himself to us many times over. When you feel overwhelmed, remember to call out to Him, and He will lift your burden. Let's pray.Father God, sometimes it feels like life is just pulling us under. We thank you so much that we have examples from Scripture where you rescued drowning people. You're indeed our lifeguard. Help us keep this in our hearts and our minds daily so that we can be reminded of your blessed assurance and to call out your name, the one who provides for all of our needs. In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

In Matthew 25:31-46 we see that, on Judgment Day, Jesus will determine eternal destinies based on genuine faith in Him.

This isn't just another parable — it's a warning. In Matthew 25:1–13, Jesus tells the sobering story of the ten virgins. All looked the part. All had lamps. All expected to meet the Bridegroom. But only five were truly ready. This message unpacks the deeper meaning behind the oil, the lamps, and what it really means to know Jesus versus just looking like you do. Are you living on borrowed faith? Are you spiritually prepared, or spiritually pretending? Whether you're wrestling with your salvation, coasting on tradition, or just feeling spiritually dry — this word will challenge and awaken you. Don't wait until it's too late.

In Matthew 5 portion of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches that if you lust in your heart after another person, you commit adultery in your heart.

A Sermon for the Sixth Sunday after Trinity St. Matthew 5:20-26 by William Klock In last Sunday's Gospel we were with Jesus and Peter in that fishing boat as Jesus preached to the crowd on the shore.  I said that I had a pretty good ides the sorts of things Jesus was preaching, because both Matthew and Luke preserve versions of his favourite sermon about the kingdom.  Today's Gospel gives us a snippet of Matthew's version of that sermon.  In Matthew 5:20 Jesus says to the gathered crowd, “I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”  In the words leading up to this, Jesus was preparing the people to hear this.  He talks about being the salt of the earth and the light of the world and a city set on hill and a light held high on a lampstand for everyone to see.  “That's how you must shine your light in front of people!” he says, “Then they'll see what wonderful things you do, and they'll give glory to your father in heaven.”  Do your works, does you the way you live make people take notice and give glory to God?  That's a tough one, isn't it?  And then, just in case people might be thinking that Jesus came to do away with the law and the prophets: “Don't suppose that I came to destroy the law or the prophets,” Jesus said, “I didn't come to destroy them.  I came to fulfil them!  I'm telling you the truth: until heaven and earth disappear—and since that won't happen this just means never—not one stroke, not one dot, is going to disappear from the law until it's all come true.  So anyone who relaxes a single one of these commandments, even the little ones, and teaches that to people, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven.  And anyone who does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”  And this is where Jesus says those words, “Yes, let me tell you: unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.”   Because Jesus was doing and saying so many things that a lot of people thought weren't right, I suspect some people thought that Jesus was teaching an easier way to the kingdom.  The Pharisees were mad because he didn't seem to keep the law with the same zeal that they thought everyone should, but I suspect there were others who thought Jesus was offering them a way to God without all the spiritual rigor and rules.  Just this week I found myself talking to someone who had left an orthodox, biblical church a few years ago and is now worshipping at a United Church.  The reason: “They aren't so strict.  They let people be themselves.  They aren't so bound to the Bible.”  In other words: The United Church offers a way to God that you can follow on your own terms.  I suspect some people thought Jesus was doing a sort of First Century Jewish version of that.  And so Jesus makes it clear that this is not the case.  No, just the opposite in fact.  Not even the Pharisees with all their zeal for torah, not even they meet the standard.  Later in the sermon he'll go on to talk about the wide and narrow way that will lead Israel to destruction and the narrow gate that few can find and the narrow and difficult way beyond that leads to the kingdom.  No, Jesus hasn't come to relax the standard.  Not at all. But before we can go on we need to ask a couple of questions.  When Jesus talks about “righteousness”, what does he mean?  Well, for the Jews “righteousness” was bound up with torah, with the law and with God's covenant.  A righteous person was someone who was faithful to God and to the covenant and that meant, fundamentally, that he was faithful in living the law that God had given his people. The name “Pharisee” means “separated one”.  That's what Israel was supposed to be.  The Lord had delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt to be his people and he gave them a law, he gave them torah, as a way of life that would separate them and that would make them distinct from every other people on earth.  When the nations looked at Israel they were supposed to be moved to give glory to God.  But for most of their history, the Israelites didn't do a very good job of being that separate and distinct people.  They were selective in their obedience.  They worshipped idols.  And so just as he cast Adam and Eve out of the garden and out of his holy presence, the Lord cast out Israel and sent her in exile to Babylon.  Righteousness means “covenant faithfulness” and if Israel wasn't going to be faithful to the covenant, then in order to be faithful himself to the covenant, the Lord would have enact the covenant curses that he promised would befall his people if they didn't keep their end of the covenant—if they were unrighteous. As I've said before fairly recently, the Pharisees knew all of this.  More than that, they believed that the exile was, after a fashion, still ongoing.  Because Israel was still ruled by pagans and because the Lord's presence had never returned to the temple.  They desperately wanted an end to Roman rule and even more than that, they prayed for the Lord's return.  But that wasn't going to happen as long as Israel was still unfaithful—still lacking in righteousness.  So the Pharisees decided to set an example.  They weren't just going to obey the law as best they could; they were going to live their whole lives as if they were priests in the temple.  They wouldn't just keep themselves from sin.  They'd keep themselves ritually pure at all times.  They were ready for the Lord to return.  If only they could get everyone in Israel just as ready!  But not everyone in Israel was as interested in righteousness as they were.  There were a lot of people who just weren't as serious about God's law as they were.  But worse were the compromisers—the Jews who gradually assimilated to the pagan ways of the Greeks and Romans and the people who willingly and knowingly became traitors to the covenant: tax collectors and sinners. Think of it this way: The Pharisees saw themselves in the midst of a culture war.  And they knew it wasn't the first time Israel had faced a culture war.  And so their heroes were the righteous men of Israel's past culture wars.  One of those heroes was Phinehas, one of Aaron's grandsons.  In the book of Numbers we read how Balak, the King of Moab, had hired a prophet to curse the Israelites.  But the prophet, Balaam couldn't do it.  Every time he opened his mouth to curse the Israelites, the Lord caused blessings to spill out.  So Balak, instead, sent a bunch of beautiful Moabite women to infiltrate the Israelite camp and to entice the men of Israel to worship the Canaanite god Baal with them.  Isreal's first culture war.  The men were enticed into sexual immorality and then into idolatry—those two always go hand-in-hand.  But Phinehas, came upon one of the Israelite men in flagrante delicto with one of these women.  Filled with holy zeal, Phinehas grabbed a spear and ran them both through together.  That was the end of Israel's first culture war and Phinehas became a hero for his righteous zeal. But much more recently, the Pharisees looked back on the heroes of the Maccabean Revolt—about 160 years before.  In those days Judah was ruled by Greeks.  And the Greeks just sort of thought that because their culture was so superior to everyone else's, everyone would just assimilate given the chance.  Think of Gus in My Big Fat Greek Wedding.  “There are two kinds of people: Greeks and everyone who wish they was Greek.”  But no matter how many temples or gymnasiums the Greeks built, the Jews wouldn't assimilate.  Antiochus IV Epiphanes had enough of it and finally outlawed the law.  If you circumcised your son, you and he would be executed.  He defiled the Lord's altar by sacrificing a pig on it.  In Second Maccabees we read a horrific story of seven brothers and their mother who were tortured and gruesomely martyred when they refused to eat pork.  Jews were forced to offer sacrifices to Zeus.  Mattathias Maccabeus was watching as one Jewish man caved into that pressure.  The writer of First Maccabees tells us how Mattathias burned with zeal for the law, just like Phinehas had.  He ran forward and killed the man at the altar, then turned and killed the King's soldier.  That would kick off a revolt against the pagan Greeks.  But the Maccabean revolutionaries didn't just go after their foreign rulers; like Mattathias they went after compromising Jews as well. They were the inspiration for the Pharisees.  The Pharisees didn't have that kind of power.  They couldn't force anyone to keep the law or to keep it better.  But they had the same kind of zeal.  They desperately wanted, they prayed for the Lord to return to Zion to destroy the Romans and all the other unrighteous pagans—and all the compromisers like the tax collectors and sinners in Israel, too. And—getting back to Jesus peaching on the hillside—and Jesus now says that even that kind of zeal, that kind of righteousness isn't enough to get folks into the kingdom.  In other words, to the people who were coming to Jesus thinking he was making it easier—kind of like some modern liberal spirituality that you can shape to your own liking—Jesus says, “No.  I didn't come to make it easier.”  But then he condemns even the Pharisees.  They were the most righteous people around and even they weren't going to make the cut.  So what now?  Imagine all the people holding their breath to hear what Jesus is going to say next.  They really, really want to know.  Before he ever started preaching, they'd seen him doing all the Messiah things: casting out demons, healing the sick and the blind and the deaf.  They knew without a doubt that the God of Israel was somehow acting in and through Jesus, so they had to think that when he preached, he preached with authority and he spoke for God.  He's got their attention now.  Now they want to know what it means to be more righteous than even the Pharisees. So Jesus goes on and says, “You have heard it said to the people of old, ‘You shall not murder'; and anyone who commits murder shall be liable to judgement.  But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgement; anyone who insults his brother with foul and abusive language will be liable to the lawcourt; and anyone who says, ‘You fool,' will be liable to the fires of Gehenna.”   And Jesus keeps going on like this.  If we skip down to 5:27—picking up just were today's Gospel ends—Jesus says something similar about adultery.  “You have heard it said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.'  But I say to you: everyone who gazes at a woman in order to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”  On and on.  Divorce falls in Jesus sites too: Divorce is wrong.  Marriage is a life-long covenant.  Tell the truth, he says, and you won't need to make oaths for people to believe you.  The law commanded justice and put limits on retaliation, but Jesus says, “Don't resist evil with violence”, “turn the other cheek”.  “When someone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat, too.  When someone forces you to go one mile, go a second one with him.”  And in verse 43 Jesus puts a cherry on top of all this.  They knew that the law was about loving your neighbour, but then they got the idea that the only people who were their neighbours were their fellow Jews.  Love your neighbours, yes, but hate your enemies—people like the Romans, the tax collectors, and the sinners who openly rejected God's law and covenant.  Love your neighbours.  Pray for God to smite your enemies.  And Jesus says, “No!  I tell you: love your enemies!  Pray for people who persecute you!”  Why?  “So that you may be sons [and daughters] of your Father in heaven.”   Do you want to have a share in the kingdom?  Do you want to be a child of the Father?  Do you want to know how to have a righteousness—a covenant faithfulness—greater than even the Pharisees?  Do want people to glorify God when they see how you live?  Then love the way that God loves.  That's what righteousness has always been about: it's been about a people that conforms to the heart of God.  Righteousness is about sinlessness, but it goes deeper than that and that's what the Pharisees and so many others in Israel had forgotten even though it was there all along: “Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord.  And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and your neighbour as yourself.” Brothers and Sisters, this is what kingdom people look like in a culture war.  They love the way God loves.  This is the narrow gate, this is the difficult path that leads to the kingdom and life with God.  It's hard.  All we have to do is look around us.  Things haven't changed much since Jesus preached this two thousand years ago.  We're in the middle of a war ourselves and it seems like Christians are prone to the same two failures.  There's a ditch on either side of the road.  You fall into the ditch on this side when you give in and compromise.  Whether it's the Judeans who went along with the Greeks, leaving their sons uncircumcised, eating pork, and making offerings to Zeus or the Christians today who give up and buy into the pagan world's notion that love is whatever you make it, anything goes, and we can all live and fellowship with God on our own terms.  Brothers and Sisters, compromise with a godless and anti-gospel culture isn't the way.  Jesus didn't come to make it easier to get into the kingdom, but there are a lot of people and churches today who think that the answer to the culture and to dwindling interest in the gospel is to lower the bar and to make it easier to think of yourself as a Christian.  Appealing to the cultural moment might get you a few followers in the short term, but it will land you in the outer darkness, weeping and gnashing your teeth just as surely as the opposite error will. The opposite error—the ditch on the other side of the road—is Phariseeism.  And that happens when we forget that the gospel wins not through violence and force but when Christians love the way that God loves.  Brothers and Sisters, no amount of compelling, force, violence, or political power will ever move the heart of an unbeliever to give glory to God because of what they see in us.  But in the midst of a culture war it's very easy for God's people to think that seizing the reigns of power is the answer.  We'll do anything, compromise just about anything, team up with just about anyone no matter how ungodly they are, to get our hands on that power.  And we can do it all with a zealousness like that of Phinehas or Mattathias that feels so right.  We try to meld Caesar and Jesus together, forgetting that Caesars bloody and violent way is the opposite of the gospel, which conquers through love.  You can't trust in Jesus and at the same trust in horses and chariots.  You can't trust in Jesus and at the same time trust in political power.  Jesus demands our allegiance and our trust—all of it and without compromise.  And it's when we give him that full allegiance that we have the loving heart of God.  It's when we're willing to follow Jesus as we turn the other cheek, as we give both our shirt and our coat, as we go the extra mile, even as we go to our own deaths, it's then that world takes notice and give glory to God.  That's how the gospel captivates hearts and transforms the world. Brothers and Sisters, that's the narrow gate and the difficult path.  Don't give up on righteousness when the going gets tough.  And never forget that law is ultimately about loving God and loving our neighbours—everyone—the way God loves them—enough to give his own son.  Love them as God does—even your worst enemy—even to point of sacrifice.  That's how God once captivated your heart and it's how he will captivate theirs. Jesus stresses just how important this is.  Going back to the end of our Gospel in Matthew 5:23 he says, “So, if you are coming to the altar with your gift and there you remember that your brother has a grievance against you, leave your gift right there in front of the altar, and go first and be reconciled to your brother.  Then come back and offer your gift.”   We probably miss the significance of this.  To go to the temple in Jerusalem to make an offering to God was the peak of righteousness, of covenant faithfulness.  This took precedence over everything else.  No one.  No. one.  Would go to Jerusalem.  And remember, Jesus is preaching in Galilee, a three day's journey from Jerusalem.  No one would trek all that way, carrying their animal for sacrifice or buying one at an exorbitant price at the temple, wait their turn, and then standing there with the priest ready to make the sacrifice, suddenly realise they needed to go all the way back home to make something right with a brother or a sister.  Yes, I think Jesus is using a bit of hyperbole here, but he wants to drive his point home, because this is how people—especially the Pharisees thought.  If you were doing it for God, nothing else mattered.  Think of the priest and the Levite in Jesus' parable, leaving a man for dead on the side of the road lest they become ritually impure.  For all their talk of loving God, they'd forgotten just how much God loves us and they'd failed to live it out.  That's why they grumbled when Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners.  They'd forgotten that all of heaven rejoices over a sinner who repents. No, says Jesus.  Never think that you're honouring God if, at the same time, you're failing to love your neighbour the way God loves him.  Never think you're doing God's work if, at the same time, you've compromised his call to faith and to faithfulness.  Never think you're building the kingdom if, at the same time, you're compromising its principles.  Instead, stop what you're doing and make things right.  Go back and love your neighbour.  Reconcile and make things right with him.  Remember that you serve the God who gave his son out of love in order to reconcile sinful you to himself.  Have that kind of love in your heart and let it shape every thing you do. Brothers and Sisters, every Sunday we recite those words of Jesus: “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 unto it, You shall love your neighbour as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”  Don't just mindlessly say those words.  Be shaped by them.  Love God and love your neighbour with everything you've got and then you will have that righteousness greater even than that of the scribes and the Pharisees. Let's pray: O God, you have prepared for those who love you such good things as surpass our understanding: Pour into our hearts such love towards you, that we, loving you above all things, may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Shine in the Darkness: Living the Light of Christ In a dark prison cell, Paul and Silas chose praise over despair—and through their worship, the light of Christ broke chains and opened hearts. In Matthew 5, Jesus calls us the light of the world, not to be hidden but set on a stand for all to see. This week, we'll explore how God calls each of us to shine His light in the darkest places. Just like Paul and Silas used their gifts of faith, worship, and courage to impact lives—even behind bars—we are called to use the gifts God has placed in us to bring hope, healing, and truth to others. Your light has a purpose. Let it shine

Group Guide Use this guide to help your group discussion as you meet this week. TranscriptGood morning. We'll continue to walk through First Samuel. We're going to be in chapter 23 and 24 today, so you'll walk through those two chapters together.In high school I played baseball and my freshman year we won state. Going into sophomore year, our senior class was kind of a little bit big headed. Before the season started, you had to pass a conditioning test called the country mile. It's about a four and a half mile run. Our seniors decided that because of where our coach was positioned—he parked his truck and the school was out in the country—it just was a run where you're running down that stop sign and back and around the school near the cow field. They realized that he didn't have visibility in every part of the run, so they thought, we're going to take some shortcuts. We're not going to run the full four and a half miles. We're going to shortcut here, here, and here.When you're 15, 16, 17, you're dumb; you're not thinking through things. We thought we were because we thought, here's what we'll do. We'll all bunch up together here and we'll release here. We had a guy on our team who was about 300 pounds, so we didn't think through that he needed to be way back and finish way late. Our coach picked up pretty quickly that we were cheating. He saw the times and said this is very curious that the biggest guy on our team is running a seven and a half minute mile pace.They finally said, all right, you guys have been running so well and doing so good. Like a cross country team, I've got your times, and that's the time you have to pass in order to make it on the baseball field. If you pass it, you go straight to the baseball field, but twice a week you have to make this run and then go to the field. He said, all right, now it's time to do it. Here are your times. We positioned all the coaches at every part of the run to see how good you were.We quickly learned that cutting this race short and taking the shortcuts was a terrible decision. For weeks as we tried to make those times, I was one of the faster guys. It was like 28 minutes. I'm not a cross country runner; I'm not going to make close to six-minute pace for four and a half miles. I'll finish that story later and what happened. But I learned there, and I think we learn in life, that shortcuts are not good. They are short-sighted. We take them because we think that's ultimately what is good, that if we take the quickest route to get what we want, that's what's best. It's our own nature to trust in our own instincts and to actually not trust in the Lord, when oftentimes He lays out the more difficult road, a difficult path filled with suffering and difficult obedience.Today we're in the part of David's story that feels, when you're in chapter 23, that for years he's been on the run for his life and he's been through trials and suffering and betrayal and the threat of death. He's been in it. But when we shift into chapter 24, he's going to have an option, a shortcut to the throne. We're going to see how this plays out and what this means for the Christian life as we consider what it means to have a long life of obedience to our Lord, even when it is difficult.Let me pray, and then we'll walk through this together.Heavenly Father, I pray that You would help us receive Your word as we walk through these chapters to see Your truth. God, I pray that we would not just be hearers of the Word, but doers of the Word, responding in faith and repentance and ultimately delighting in You above all things. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.All right, so verse 1:"Now they told David, Behold, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah and are robbing the threshing floors."We pick up where we left off last week, where David and his men are on the run. They just heard about the priest of Nob being slaughtered for proceeding to help them out. They're feeling the threat of death. At this point, they hear of a town called Keilah, a town in Judah on the border between Philistine's land and the people of Judah, and they're being robbed by the Philistines.Verse 2:"Therefore David inquired of the Lord, Shall I go and attack these Philistines? And the Lord said to David, Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah."David gives us an example here of what it looks like to walk with God. He sees a difficulty. He asks the Lord. The Lord responds, and he's willing to do it. But his men hear this and have questions.Verse 3:"But David's men said to him, Behold, we are afraid here in Judah. How much more then if we go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?"Which is a legitimate question, because if they go into Keilah, they expose themselves. They've been hiding in caves throughout the land. To go and help this town, chances are Saul will hear about it and come. It might be a situation where they're fighting the Philistines and Saul's army is coming. This seems risky.So David goes back to the Lord.Verse 4:"Then David inquired of the Lord again, and the Lord answered him, Arise, go down to Keilah, for I will give the Philistines into your hand."David and his men went to Keilah, fought the Philistines, brought away their livestock, and struck them a great blow. David saved the inhabitants of Keilah.Verse 6:"When Abiathar the son of Ahimelech had fled to David at Keilah, he had come down with an ephod in hand."Abiathar was the remaining priest from the priest of Nob story last week. He comes and brings an ephod. Ephods are priestly garments that priests wore, but this is probably the main ephod that the high priest wore. This is important because in it were two stones—the Urim stone and the Thummim stone. We don't know for sure how they were used, but they generally helped answer prayers in a yes or no fashion, like, should we go here or there? The priest did some type of pulling out or casting of stones.Verse 7:"Now, it was told Saul that David had come to Keilah, and Saul said, God has given him into my hand, for he has shut himself in by entering a town that has gates and bars."Saul finally hears about it and says, aha, I've got them. They're in Keilah, a place with gates and bars. We'll stop the men there and finally take David down.Verse 8:"Saul summoned all the people to go to war, to go down to Keilah to besiege David and his men. David knew that Saul was plotting harm against him."He says to Abiathar the priest, bring the ephod here.Verse 9:"Then David said, O Lord, the God of Israel, your servant has surely heard that Saul seeks to come to Keilah to destroy the city on my account. Will the men of Keilah surrender me into his hand? Will Saul come down, as your servant has heard, O Lord, God of Israel, please tell your servant."They seek the Lord, asking if the city will betray them after David's protection.Verse 11:"And the Lord said, He will come down. Then David said, Will the men of Keilah surrender me and my men into the hand of Saul? And the Lord said, They will surrender you."David and his men, about 600 now, arose and departed from Keilah and went wherever they could go. They asked the question, should we trust Keilah? The answer was no, as you see from the Lord's response.When Saul was told that David escaped Keilah, he gave up the expedition. David remained in the strongholds in the wilderness, in the hill country of the wilderness of Ziph. Saul sought him every day, but God did not give him into his hand.David saw that Saul had come to seek his life. David was in the wilderness of Ziph at Horesh. Jonathan, Saul's son, rose and went to David at Horesh and strengthened his hand. He said:"Do not fear for the hand of Saul. My father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel, and I shall be next to you."Saul, my father, also knows this. The two of them made a covenant before the Lord. David remained at Horesh and Jonathan went home.Jonathan, David's friend, hears about these troubles and encourages him. From Psalm 34, which was written while David was in the cave fearing his life, we know the Lord is near the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. David, on the run for his life with deep discouragement, has this friend encouraging him.This encounter is significant because Jonathan has hopefulness. He says, one day you'll be king, and I'll be beside you. This foreshadows that Jonathan will never see David be king; he will not live to see him on the throne. This is their final encounter. Jonathan, in his last friendship act, encourages David, telling him not to fear and to trust God's promises.Verse 19:"Then the Ziphites went up to Saul at Gibeah saying, Is not David hiding among us in the strongholds at Horesh, on the hill of Akilah, which is south of Jeshimon? Now come down, O king, according to all your heart's desire to come down, and our part shall be to surrender him into the king's hand."Saul said:"May you be blessed by the Lord for you have had compassion on me. Go make yet more sure. Know and see the place where his foot is and who has seen him there, for he is very cunning. See and take note of all the lurking places where he hides, and come back to me with sure information."They went ahead to Ziph as spies.If you read Psalm 54, David expresses his distress at this betrayal by his own countrymen:"For strangers have risen up against me; ruthless men seek my life; they do not set God before themselves."David is deeply discouraged by continual betrayal, even from people of Judah.David and his men were in the wilderness of Maon, about five miles south of Ziphara in the Arabah. Saul and his men went to seek him. David went down to the rock and lived in the wilderness of Maon. When Saul heard that, he pursued David there. Saul went on one side of the mountain and David and his men on the other side.David was hurrying to get away from Saul, who was closing in to capture them.A messenger then told Saul:"Hurry and come, for the Philistines have made a raid against the land."Saul returned from pursuing David and went against the Philistines. Therefore that place was called the Rock of Escape. David then lived in the strongholds of En Gedi.At the last moment when Saul was about to capture David, God sovereignly intervened. Saul did what a king should do and protected his people, and God preserved David's life again.Chapter 23 gives us more examples of David continually facing the threat of death and betrayal. Think—he escaped death at Nob, at Ziph, at Maon, at Gath, and at Keilah. This is years of hunting, suffering, and fear. Every time trying to go to sleep, hearing a branch break, wondering, is it the day? Years of hardship and trauma under the threat of constant death.This sets up First Samuel 24, where David has the opportunity to end it.Verse 1:"When Saul returned from following the Philistines, he was told, Behold, David is in the wilderness of En Gedi. Then Saul took 3,000 chosen men out of Israel and went to seek David and his men in front of the Wild Goats Rocks."Saul handles the Philistine raid, then he finds that David is near Wild Goats Rocks, basically a rocky hill where wild goats live.The story takes an interesting turn.Verse 3:"He came to the sheepfolds, where there was a cave. Saul went in to relieve himself. David and his men were sitting in the innermost parts of the cave."Saul goes into the cave to use the bathroom, for privacy. David and 600 of his men are hiding inside that cave, which hopefully gives you an idea of how big it was.David's men were very excited because Saul was most vulnerable now, when using the bathroom. This was a moment on a silver platter—David and his men could have ended all the hardship with one swing of the sword.Verse 4:"And the men of David said to him, Here is the day of which the Lord said to you, Behold, I will give your enemy into your hand, and you shall do to him as it shall seem good to you."They urged David to take this opportunity.David rose stealthily and cut off a corner of Saul's robe. He could have ended it all but instead cut a piece of his robe.Verse 5:"And afterward David's heart struck him because he had cut off a corner of Saul's robe. He said to his men, The Lord forbid that I should do this thing to my lord, the Lord's anointed, to put out my hand against him, seeing he is the Lord's anointed."David persuaded his men not to attack Saul.Saul rose and left the cave, going on his way.David knew God's heart and the heart of the king. Saul was the Lord's anointed king, even if evil had been done. David would not decide when Saul's kingship ends. He trusted the Lord and obeyed, not murdering a man while he was vulnerable.His men, who have been under the threat of death for years, followed his example. That shows David's leadership.After Saul left the cave, David boldly confronted him.Verse 8:"David arose and went out of the cave and called after Saul, My lord the king."Saul looked back. David bowed with his face to the earth and paid homage.David said:"Why do you listen to the words of men who say, Behold, David seeks your harm? Behold this day your eyes have seen how the Lord gave you today into my hand in the cave. Some told me to kill you, but I spared you. I said, I will not put out my hand against the Lord, for he is the Lord's anointed."David pleaded:"See, my father, see the corner of your robe in my hand. I cut off the corner and did not kill you. You may know and see that there is no wrong or treason in my hands. I have not sinned against you, though you hunt my life to take it."He called out:"May the Lord judge between me and you. May the Lord avenge me against you, but my hand shall not be against you."He even said:"Out of the wicked comes wickedness, but my hand shall not be against you. After whom has the king of Israel come out? After a dead dog, after a flea? May the Lord therefore be judge and give sentence between me and you, and see to it and plead my cause and deliver me from your hand."David showed that he would not sin to get what God promised. He humbly lowered himself to be insignificant—a dead dog, a flea—and pleaded with Saul to see that he was not the enemy.Verse 16:"As soon as David had finished speaking these words to Saul, Saul said, Is this your voice, my son David? Saul lifted up his voice and wept. He said, You are more righteous than I, for you repaid me good, whereas I have repaid you evil. You have declared this day how you have dealt well with me and that you did not kill me when the Lord put me into your hands."Saul has moments of clarity and contrition. He weeps and realizes David is the better man.There's a cool link to Judah and Tamar back in Genesis 38, a picture of having evidence in hand and declaring righteousness.Saul continued:"Now behold, I know that you shall surely be king, that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in your hands. Swear to me by the Lord that you will not cut off my offspring after me, and that you will not destroy my name out of my father's house."David swore to this.Saul went home; David and his men went up to the stronghold.Saul finally sees it: David will be king. He pleads for the protection of his offspring, as it was common in history for successors to kill rival family members.When you think about chapters 23 and 24 back to back, you see how long David suffered and how many years of hardships he endured. He had the opportunity right then to end all his hardships with one swing of the sword and take the throne. But he did not. He trusted the Lord and was obedient to the will of the Father.This is a beautiful picture of trust in God.It's also a foreshadowing of the more righteous path of Christ.Jesus also would be offered a shortcut to the throne during His temptation in the wilderness.In Matthew 4:"The devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. He said to Him, All these I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.Then Jesus said to him, Begone, Satan, for it is written, You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve."Jesus was offered the throne but rejected the shortcut because He trusted the will of the Father, even when that road was filled with suffering—the road to the cross.Jesus suffered agony, physical pain, separation from the Father as the full cup of God's wrath bore down on Him.Even when Jesus was suffering, He could have called down angels to end it, but He did not.He endured to the final breath, with redemption in mind for us.When He finished His work on the cross, He ascended to the right hand of God, where He rules over all kingdoms forever.Amen.Going back to 10th grade, when we were running this unreasonable time every day before practice, it was clear we were never going to make our times.Finally, our coach said, all right, I'm going to bump up the time to what it should have been.You smaller guys got 32 minutes, which was a pretty steady pace.I hate running. To this day you won't see me running; I'm not a runner. I don't want to be a runner.Because I hated running so much, I was determined to make the time. I ran faster than I ever had in my life. I was blazing fast.Coming around the final turn, about a quarter of a mile left, my coach said, you're not going to make it.I sprinted, after running four-ish miles, with everything I had.The final few steps before the finish line, I puked. Then I puked walking across the finish line because I was not going to miss this time.He said 29 minutes.I was like, are you kidding me? I could have walked.What we failed to see about this conditioning test was we could only see what was right in front of us—a stupid run we had to do.You may think, why do baseball players have to run? It's because of endurance for the season.When you play 30 games in high school, 60 plus in college, or 162 in pro baseball, you have to get in shape, or your body will break down mid-season.At 15, you don't see what the coach is doing. You don't see that the suffering he puts you through over and over again is for a greater good, so you can make it through the season and not break down.We didn't trust our coaches. We saw what was good in our minds, so we took the shortcut.But that's what we do all the time in life. We see the easier option right in front of us and want to take it.We have wonderful examples from Scripture about what it looks like to be obedient and how good that is.David could have taken a shortcut to the throne, but didn't.Jesus was obedient to the Father, even through suffering, for our redemption.We have wonderful examples of the long road of obedience, even when it's difficult.So the question today: What shortcuts are we tempted to take?In business or work, we know shortcuts: how to cut corners, how to cheat.We see others do it and wonder why we have to do it the right way.But God calls us to integrity and obedience for our good.In relationships, it's common now to simulate marriage without the covenant.Living as if married, moving in together, enjoying pleasures without commitment.It's hard to be obedient in that and honor the Lord.But God has good for us when we trust Him in obedience.We fail to see that when we take shortcuts.Some feel a desire for vengeance when they've been wronged.Shortcut is to take vengeance ourselves.God calls us to trust Him for justice, which is far better.In parenting, there are shortcuts.Moments needing patience, control of emotions.Shortcut is to lose control or discipline wrongly.In marriage, conflict, and other struggles, shortcuts abound.We often coach people to confront, to avoid gossip, to be faithful to God's calls.Some suffer deeply and may see shortcuts like substances, self-harm, or worse.We cannot see the long obedience God calls us to.As you consider today, what shortcut options are you taking when God calls you to obedience?My hope is we consider David's actions and the better David, Jesus Christ, and follow their lead.Matt will come up and lead us in one final song.As he comes, don't shift or move, just listen.The wrong response to the call is to say, "I'm going to do this by my strength," trying to muscle obedience.The response is to look to Jesus.Hebrews 12 says this after chapter 11:"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race set before us,looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."Our example is to look to Christ, put our hope in Him, who endured the cross and now rules from heaven.May we first look to Christ by grace through faith and be people who trust God every step in obedience.Let me pray.Heavenly Father, I pray that You would help us hear the good news of the Gospel that calls us to trust You, so that we might not take the shortcuts in life that do not bring joy, honor You, or bring good to us or those around us.God, I pray for faithfulness, but that it comes by first trusting in You.We have failed, sinned, and chosen shortcuts.May You cover us in grace, by Your grace, through the blood of Jesus shed for us.May we leave here as a people obedient to You, even when it is hard.In Jesus' name, Amen.

Jesus tells a parable in Matthew 20 that is a puzzle for us to understand. It's the story of an employer who offers to hire workers for a certain amount, the workers agree to the pay, and they go to work in his vineyard. Some start working early in the morning and work all day, others are hired throughout the day, and finally at five o'clock this employer hires even more people to come and work in the vineyard for the last hour of the day. At the end of the workday, the employer pays them the exact same amount, even though some have worked twelve hours, some ten, and some just one hour. Well, as you can understand, those who worked the entire day were not happy campers. When they received the pay they had agreed to, they began to grumble against the landowner. ‘These who were hired last worked only one hour,' they said, ‘and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day' (Matthew 20:11-12). To our human minds, this just seems wrong! It's not fair! Those are probably some of the first words you ever uttered: It's not fair! We're born with an “it's not fair” attitude—wanting things to be equal, fair, right. But this parable emphasizes the fact that the Kingdom of God is not a fair kingdom! Grace is not fair. God pours his grace and blessings on us though we never deserve them. The Kingdom of God is run on Jesus rules—and those are totally different than the way the world works. Jesus tells this parable to help his followers understand that he will bless those he chooses to bless and be generous to those he chooses, and we should always remember how unfairly God has treated us—and be very grateful. He doesn't deal with us as our sins deserve. He doesn't dispense grace to us based on our performance. His kingdom is not like ours; his rules are usually the opposite of what the world's rules are. As Jesus tells this parable, this is how the landowner responds: But he answered one of them, ‘I am not being unfair to you, friend. Didn't you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the one who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?' (Matthew 20:13-15). Jesus is trying to show us that God is God, and he runs the show. He rules the universe. It runs on the Jesus rules. But here's the thing—the Jesus rules are meant to bring us peace and contentment, and they do when we live by them. It's upside-down living, I know, but it brings immediate and eternal joy. His message in this parable is that we are to work without envy. We are not to compare ourselves to others and envy what others get or have or do. Envy will eat you alive. Proverbs 14:30 says: A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Is there some envy in your heart today—toward coworkers or others? It will rot your bones—destroy your health, shorten your life. If you want to work by Jesus rules, then you need to clean out the envy in your heart. Believe me, you'll be so glad you did. In Matthew 21 Jesus tells the parable of the two sons. The father told the first son to go work in the vineyard. That son refused to go, but later he changed his mind and went. The second son agreed to go, but then he didn't. Jesus asked, Which of the two did what his father wanted? Obviously the first son did what his father asked. One of the things this parable teaches us is that we should walk our talk. The second son gave the right answer, he looked and sounded good, but he failed to deliver. He was all talk and no walk. A good rule of thumb is “Under promise and over deliver.” That's what the first son did. He delivered more than he promised. His talk wasn't very impressive, but he actually went out and got the work done. Have you known people who could talk a really good game but never put the elbow-grease behind their talk?

by Elder John Morgan Owens (preached on May 11, 2025) In Matthew 11:28, Jesus tells all who labor and are heavy-laden to come to HIM for rest. Don’t we need rest in this troubled world? In this encouraging sermon, Elder John Morgan Owens reminds us that we can find rest in this stress-filled world only...

Daily Dose of Hope July 24, 2025   Scripture – Matthew 28:1-15   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, We give you glory and praise.  You are King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  Thank you for your giving your life for us.  Your love is overwhelming and all-encompassing.  As we think about our day and our week, help us focus on when we have seen your love at work.  Show us those moments when you were with us, walking alongside us, guiding us, directing our thoughts and our words.  Lord, how we need you.  How we yearn to see your glory.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  Currently, we are doing a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we begin Matthew 28.   Today, we will talk about the Easter story, the best story in the history of the world.  Yes, Jesus was crucified.  Yes, Jesus died on that horrible cross.  Yes, he was laid in the tomb.  But he did not stay dead.  On Sunday morning, everything changed.  The women went to the tomb and were greeted by an angel.  The Scripture said that the angel rolled the tomb away and was sitting on it, waiting for the women.    That's when he reveals to good news.  Jesus has risen and is going ahead of them.  It's then that Jesus actually appears to the women.  In Matthew's Gospel, it's Jesus himself who tells the women to go share the good news of his resurrection with the others.   Now, let's talk a little bit about the resurrection itself. Now, there are some Christians who see the resurrection in only a metaphorical sense. At New Hope (and in the GMC), we believe that Jesus experienced a real, physical, bodily resurrection.  In fact, I believe that Jesus' resurrection really only has TRUE significance if we understand it as a real bodily resurrection. Clearly, the early church believed it was a bodily resurrection...they risked and often gave life and limb to proclaim the Good News about Jesus Christ and his resurrection.   There is much evidence for the bodily resurrection of Jesus (significantly more than for other historical events that we tend to take for granted) and some great books out there that deal with some of these issues–Lee Strobel has some good ones. If this is a question for you, I would strongly encourage you to settle that for yourself.   That being said, even for the average churchgoer who believes in a real bodily resurrection of Jesus, is it making a significant difference in their lives OR is it perhaps simply providing a vague consolation that there is something beyond death? I want you to really think about it–how has resurrection changed your life?  Have you personally been transformed by the power of the resurrection?   Paul says in I Corinthians 15 that without the resurrection, our faith would be futile, useless, a hoax. Those who have died for the faith, their suffering would be pointless. You see, so much hinges on the resurrection. Jesus' whole life was vindicated with the resurrection. The resurrection provides evidence of Jesus' divinity. Romans 1:4 says, and he was shown to be the Son of God when he was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. He is Jesus Christ our Lord.  Because Jesus is God, then we need to take everything he says very, very seriously.  The resurrection also provides assurance and hope that our physical death is not the end...it not only points to life after death but also the future resurrection of believers. Romans 8:11 says, The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.   The resurrection is life-changing for us as well.  The resurrection provides the power to bring the dead to life, the power for complete transformation, to bring what was essentially dead to something that is alive, vibrant, and productive. When someone says yes to Jesus Christ, a spiritually dead person becomes united with a life-giving Savior. When that happens, his resurrection produces a resurrection in us. The word resurrection actually comes from the same root as resurgence or rising again. We become connected to a life-giving power, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead. This resurrection power has the ability to revive us, restore us, and transform us.   How amazing that we have become united with Jesus Christ, become filled with the Holy Spirit, and connected with God's mighty power. Think about it. This is a power than can perform miracles, this is a power than can make the dead come to life, this is the power that will ensure our eternity is secure.  Certainly, if it has the power to do all those things, this resurrection power can also transform us in radical ways. When we become united with Christ, we die to our old life & become new creations.   How have you experienced resurrection power in your life?   The last portion of today's reading is the guards' report.  They experienced the power of the resurrection and they tried to cover it up.  Why do you think they were so afraid?   More tomorrow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

It's Wednesday, July 23rd, 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 Muslims kill Syrian pastor and 20 members of family Syrian Muslims took the life of a pastor and 20 members of his family over the weekend. Khalid Mezher was the pastor of the Good Shepherd Evangelical Church in southern Syria. He and his family converted to Christianity years ago out of a religious group in the area known as the Druze.  Violence between Druze militias and fighters from the Bedouin tribes, which are mostly Muslim, has taken the lives of hundreds of people over the last week.  Evangelical leader Johnnie Moore wrote on X, “Pastor Khalid died for a faith that many Christians hardly live. They are now martyrs who gave their entire lives, in difficult circumstances, to share the love of Jesus with their neighbors and beloved Syria.” In Matthew 16:25, Jesus said, “For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” Puerto Rico protects kids from transsexual drugs and surgeries Puerto Rico is protecting children from transsexual drugs and surgeries. Last Wednesday, Republican Governor Jenniffer González Colón signed the Law for the Protection of the Health and Well-being of Minors in Puerto Rico. Harming children with such transsexual procedures is punishable by 15 years in prison.   Puerto Rico joins nearly 30 states in America with similar bans. Japan to invest $550 billion into America President Donald Trump secured a great deal with Japan, reports The Epoch Times. On Truth Social, President Trump announced, “We just completed a massive deal with Japan, perhaps the largest deal ever made. Japan will invest, at my direction, $550 billion into the United States, which will receive 90% of the profits. “This deal will create hundreds of thousands of jobs. There has never been anything like it. Perhaps most importantly, Japan will open their country to trade including cars and trucks, rice and certain other agricultural products. … Japan will pay reciprocal tariffs to the United States of 15%.” CBS/Skydance to pay Trump Foundation $36 million President Trump recently reached a $16 million settlement with Paramount, the parent of CBS News, over what he claimed was misleading editing of a pre-election interview with the Democratic candidate for president, Kamala Harris, reports The Guardian. While CBS initially called the lawsuit “completely without merit”, Paramount is in the midst of an $8 billion sale to the Hollywood studio Skydance Media, which requires the approval of federal regulators. President Trump has claimed that the future owner of CBS will provide him with $20 million worth of advertising and programming – days after the network canceled The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “We have just achieved a BIG AND IMPORTANT WIN in our historic lawsuit against 60 Minutes, CBS, and Paramount. … CBS and its corporate owners knew that they defrauded the American people, and were desperate to settle. Paramount/CBS/60 Minutes have today paid $16 Million in settlement, and we also anticipate receiving $20 million more from the new owners, in advertising, PSAs, or similar programming, for a total of over $36 million dollars.” He added, “This is another in a long line of VICTORIES over the Fake News Media, who we are holding to account for their widespread fraud and deceit. The Wall Street Journal, The Failing New York Times, The Washington Post, MSDNC, CNN, and all other Mainstream Media Liars, are ON NOTICE that the days of them being allowed to deceive the American people are OVER.” Federal workforce shrunk by 22,000 people A report by the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond found the U.S. federal workforce has shrunk by over 22,000 people from January to May of this year. Chuck Ezell, the Acting Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, said, “The American people deserve a government that is lean, efficient, and focused on core priorities. This data marks the first measurable step toward President Trumpʼs vision of a disciplined, accountable federal workforce and itʼs only the beginning.” Trump has also extended his hiring freeze on federal workers through October. Foreign buyers purchased $56 billion worth of U.S. homes The National Association of Realtors reports that foreign buyers purchased $56 billion worth of U.S. homes from April 2024 through March 2025. The number of home purchases by foreign buyers rose to over 78,000 this year. That's up from last year's report, but still down from 284,000 purchases in 2017.  The top destination states for foreign buyers include Florida, California, Texas, and New York. The most popular origin countries of international buyers are China, Canada, Mexico, India, and the United Kingdom. China's share of buyers has gone up significantly since 2007. Star from The Cosby Show drowned Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who portrayed the teenage son Theo Huxtable on “The Cosby Show”, died at 54 in an accidental drowning in Costa Rica, reports the Associated Press. Costa Rica's Judicial Investigation Department said Warner drowned Sunday afternoon, July 20th on a beach on Costa Rica's Limón province when a current pulled him deeper into the ocean. His character, Theo, was the only son among four daughters in the household of Cosby's Cliff Huxtable and Phylicia Rashad's Clair Huxtable on the NBC sitcom. He was one of the prime representations of American teenage life and Black boyhood on a show that was the most popular in America for much of its run from 1984 to 1992. Christian golfer says priorities are faith, family, then golf And finally, Scottie Scheffler won the Open Championship earlier this week. Also known as the British Open, it's the oldest golf tournament in the world.  The American professional golfer has won 20 times worldwide since 2022. After his latest victory, Scheffler told reporters he enjoys golf but that faith and family are his greatest priorities.  SCHEFFLER: “I would say my greatest priorities are my faith and my family. Those come first for me. Golf is third in that I've said it for a long time. Golf is not how I identify myself. I don't identify myself by winning tournaments, chasing trophies, being famous or whatever it is. “This week, I was the best player in the world. I'm sitting here with the trophy. We're gonna start all over in Memphis, back to even par. Show goes on. I don't feel any different because I've won a golf tournament. This is not the ‘be all end all' for me, but I'm extremely grateful for it. “I don't think that I'm anything special, just because some weeks, I'm better at shooting a lower score than other guys are.” Scheffler's love for family inspired a Nike ad that celebrates fatherhood. The footwear company posted a picture of Scheffler on the golf course with his infant son. Nike wrote, “Priorities unchanged. Another major secured. The wins keep coming on and off the course for Scottie Scheffler.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, July 23rd, 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 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.

In Matthew 25:1-30 we see that being ready for the end of the world means having a real relationship with Jesus and faithfully stewarding what He's entrusted to you now.

Tuesday, 22 July 2025   how he entered the house of God and ate the showbread which was not lawful for him to eat, nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests? Matthew 12:4   “How he entered into the house of God and the bread ‘the before-setting' they ate, which not it is being permitted him to eat, nor those with him, if not the priests only?” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus questioned the Pharisees as to whether they remembered what Scripture said in regard to David. He continues with that now with the words, “How he entered into the house of God.”   This account was cited in the previous verse commentary. The tabernacle was located at Nob, where Ahimelek the priest was. David went into an area designated for the priests only. Also, the words of Jesus continue with, “and the bread ‘the before-setting' they ate.”   The word prothesis, before-setting, is introduced. It is used at this time when referring to the consecrated bread set before the Lord in the tabernacle (and later the temple). However, the word is not limited to this. It is a word that can speak of a set purpose, such as that used in Romans 8:28 –   “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose [prothesis].”   In Matthew, the “before-setting” refers to the showbread set before the Lord. The Hebrew literally reads “bread, faces,” which signifies the bread of the Presence first mentioned in Exodus 25:30. Of this bread, Jesus continues with, “which not it is being permitted him to eat.”   This is stated explicitly in Leviticus 24 –   “Take the finest flour and bake twelve loaves of bread, using two-tenths of an ephah for each loaf. 6 Arrange them in two stacks, six in each stack, on the table of pure gold before the Lord. 7 By each stack put some pure incense as a memorial portion to represent the bread and to be a food offering presented to the Lord. 8 This bread is to be set out before the Lord regularly, Sabbath after Sabbath, on behalf of the Israelites, as a lasting covenant. 9 It belongs to Aaron and his sons, who are to eat it in the sanctuary area, because it is a most holy part of their perpetual share of the food offerings presented to the Lord.” Leviticus 24:5-9   The law says that the bread belonged to Aaron and his sons. It further defines where it could be eaten. There is no legal provision to allow the priest to give this bread to David, “nor those with him, if not the priests only?”   Understanding this, the Pharisees, who had used a precept from the law, had an account from Israel's history presented to them which refers to violations of the law. And yet, the Bible remains silent on the event other than noting that it occurred.   In other words, there is a positive command in the ceremonial laws for the priests to eat the bread in the sanctuary, just as there is a positive command concerning the Pharisees' accusation concerning the Sabbath. Despite these, there is an underlying allowance on display in the account of David when the needs of man must be met.   To condemn Jesus means that these men would have to, in turn, condemn David, the hero of God and a man after the Lord's own heart. But how could they? The word concerning David contained no word of condemnation.   The two accounts, that of what David and his men did, and the example of Jesus with his disciples, are on a one-to-one footing. The Pharisees, therefore, no longer have a valid accusation to raise against Jesus.   Life application: There are times when things in our stream of existence will come into conflict with what is written. An example may be the establishment of a church in an area previously unevangelized. Suppose there are two people in the area who could be chosen to lead the church.   The first is a lady who heard the good news while away. She not only heard the gospel, but she also was there long enough to obtain sound biblical doctrine. She then returned to tell the people in her village about Jesus.   The second is a man who just learns about Jesus but who is willing to lead the people in their newly accepted faith. Wouldn't the woman be a better candidate? Scripture provides thoughts on both –   “Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. 12 And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve.” 1 Timothy 2:11-13   “A bishop then must be ... not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. 7 Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.” 1 Timothy 3:2 & 6, 7   Which would be the appropriate person to lead the church? It is a conundrum that must be thought through as both are technically biblically excluded from the role. However, if one must be chosen, the substance behind the matter and the intent behind the precepts need to be considered.   There is a need for the people to have proper leadership. At times, there will be instances, like this example, where decisions must be made that have to consider the spirit and intent of the word, even if there is a conflict with a precept stated in the word.   Glorious God, help us to always carefully consider Your word. May we be cautious to uphold it for what it is and then apply it to our walk before You. You have set forth guidelines for us to consider. May we carefully and cautiously do so at all times. Amen.  

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 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.

Aloha and welcome to The Mission North Shore's podcast!  In Matthew 2, we delve into the fascinating story of the Magi and their quest to find the newborn King of the Jews. The Magi, guided by ancient prophecies and a miraculous star, traveled great distances to worship the Messiah. This message encourages us to reflect on how earnestly we're seeking God in our own lives and prompts us to consider: How much of God do we truly want? Are we willing to 'journey far' in our pursuit of a deeper relationship with Him? God bless and have a great week!

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.