Podcasts about in romans

Better to give than receive? What does that mean in the context of Acts 20? In Romans 7, why does Paul say, "I was once alive apart from the Law"? How exactly did God reveal Himself to Isaiah? What does it mean for Jesus to share His glory with us?

Romans 8:34 — Can someone who has been justified be once again condemned because of sin? In Romans 8:34 Paul says that this question is unthinkable for those who are in Christ Jesus. Christ took all of the Christian's condemnation with Him on the cross and the Son will no more bring any charge against them or be the means of their condemnation any more than the Father Himself. In this sermon on Romans 8:34 titled “Christ, Our Security,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones divides Paul's proofs into four main arguments: Christ has died, He has risen again, He is at the right hand of God, and He is making intercession for His people. Because of these four things, the Christian can rest assured that it is impossible for God to punish them once again because Christ died for their sin and bore their punishment so that they can now be alive in God. This means that a believer has been justified and justification is a declaration that they are no longer under condemnation. God's justice was fully satisfied on the cross and, therefore, God's justice should be viewed as their greatest security and comfort. Christ was raised from the dead shows that God the Father was satisfied with this sacrifice and all condemnation has been dealt with fully. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111

When life feels bigger than your strength, God’s provision becomes your power. Ezra 5:5 reminds us that when God gives an assignment—whether rebuilding a life, leading a family, launching a ministry, or facing opposition—His hand stays on His people until the work is complete. The returning exiles discovered that divine calling comes with divine supply, even when challenges rise and fear tries to stall our obedience. Highlights God equips us fully for every assignment He places in our hands—strength, resources, and support. The exiles returned to devastation, yet God’s favor and miraculous provision met them on arrival. Opposition, intimidation, and discouragement threatened to halt their progress, but God’s presence stayed constant. His faithfulness guaranteed the completion of the rebuilding—He finishes what He begins. Following Jesus includes hardship, but we “take heart” because He has already overcome the world. Romans 8 reminds believers that nothing can separate us from Christ or stop His purposes. Through Him, we live not as survivors but as “more than conquerors,” empowered to persevere. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: Divinely Empowered for Our Greatest ChallengesJennifer Slattery (host of Faith Over Fear) Bible Reading:But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, and they did not make them cease till the matter should come to Darius, and then answer should be returned by letter concerning it. (Ezra 5:5, ESV) Today’s verse and the historical context surrounding it assure us that when God assigns us a task, be that to raise children, complete a work project, lead a team, launch a ministry, or pursue a dream, He gives us everything we need to do all that He asks. And while we will likely always experience opposition, whenever we seek to live for Jesus, the events recorded in Ezra and Nehemiah also assure us that He is greater than any opposition we’ll face. In short, He finishes what He begins. The question is, how will we respond when difficulties come? Will we cower in fear, falter in fatigue, or trust in His provision, protection, and care? Presumably, this was a question with which Ezra, the religious leader introduced in the Bible book bearing his name, and the returning exiles wrestled as they labored, for decades, to rebuild what the Assyrians destroyed seventy years prior. Here’s the backstory. Despite centuries of prophetic warnings in which the Lord pleaded with His people to return to Him, they remained set in their rebellion and violent and oppressive ways. Therefore, God gave them the autonomy they wanted, removed His protective hand, and allowed their enemies to conquer them and cart them off to a pagan nation to live as exiles. Yet, faithful to His promise, 70 years later, the Lord mercifully and miraculously returned them to their beloved homeland. Their arrival was bittersweet, filled with celebration for their liberation and return and sorrow for the destruction they saw once back in their beloved capital city. They found Jerusalem’s wall broken down, the gates burned, and the temple destroyed. But they also arrived with an abundance of the Lord’s miraculous provision, given to them by Cyrus, a pagan king. Perhaps buoyed by this obvious display of God’s favor and hope in the restoration He’d previously promised through the prophet Isaiah, they immediately set to work, built an altar, and re-established worship. Not long after, however, their progress stalled due to opposition and their desire to build homes in which to live. The intimidation they experienced from the locals steadily increased and could’ve halted the restoration project indefinitely, leaving Jerusalem like the many other ancient cities that once thrived but are no more. That’s not what happened, however, because the eye of God, meaning His favor and hand, remained on His people until they completed everything He’d assigned and promised. Because again, when God assigns something, He gives us everything we need, be that resources, strength, and people to help, to do all that He’s asked. Intersecting Life & Faith: This story reveals two co-existing realities we all encounter in this life. As you probably know from experience, living for Jesus isn’t, and never will be, easy. Jesus told us to expect trouble: local, national, and global conflict, relational ruptures and betrayal, sickness and poverty, and pain. But He also told us to “take heart”; to sink our faith roots deep into Him, the One who overcame the world and conquered death and the grave that we, His beloved and empowered children, might also overcome. In Romans 8:31-37, Paul, a first-century evangelist who wrote much of the New Testament, phrased it this way: “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who spared not his own Son but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not also with him freely give us all things? … Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation or anguish or persecution or famine …” (ESV). And here’s one of my favorite parts—the last line: “in all these things” –and a thousand more besides— “we are more than conquerors” –as in, we’ve secured, in Christ, overwhelming victory— “through him that loved us” (ESV). Lord, remind us of this truth, your promises, and unchanging character the next time we feel timid, overwhelmed, and defeated that we may pursue Your will with perseverance and Spirit-ignited determination. Further Reading:Proverbs 19:21Proverbs 3:5-6Job 42:2 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When I first embraced the Christian faith, there were a number of things in my life that profoundly needed changing. But nothing seemed to work until some Christian writers took me to Romans 6, 7 and 8.  When I began to understand the teaching of these chapters, my life began to change. In this brief series, I'm sharing these teachings with you as we ask this question: how does faith in Christ actually lead to real change in one's life? In Romans 8, we see that in Jesus, you get three things: 1) you get the freedom to know yourself, 2) you get a new method to change yourself, and 3) you get a new power to be yourself. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on December 3, 2006. Series: In Christ Jesus: How the Spirit Transforms Us. Scripture: Romans 8:1-13. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

In Romans 12, Paul instructs Christians to be completely dedicated to serving God, fellow Christians, and their neighbors in the world. In this sermon, Evangelist Gavin Williams examines how worship as a way of life extends beyond the songs of ascent and the Old Testament.

The letter of Romans strengthened the ancient church, brought reformation to the dark ages, has brought hope for 2000 years, and can change your life! This is a special four part series that spans the year of 2025. In Romans, Paul has been teaching us about the unity of the Body of Christ—not as uniformity, but as a recognition of our God-given differences, which can span everything from political affiliation to personal preferences. In chapter 16, Paul takes an interesting turn and reminds us that unity is never completely free of conflict. We often assume that peace means the absence of conflict, or that unity means we never disagree. But true unity takes work—pressing through conflict and handling it in the right way.Let's listen in…LINKS + RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:• Recommended reading for this series• Amanda Ripley's book “High Conflict: Why We Get Trapped and How We Get Out”• Download the free study guide, complete transcript, and show notes here.• Scripture References: Romans 16, verses 17-23; Titus 3, verse 10; Matthew 10, verse 16• Find out more about Covenant Church at ⁠covenantexperience.com

How does change really happen in somebody's life? And how does faith in Christ concretely and practically lead to change?  In Romans 7 we see, in very starkly and shockingly realistic terms, a depiction of the human heart. And what we really see is the very heart that any principles about change have to be applied to. When we look at Romans 7, I think we learn three things: 1) what our biggest problem is, 2) what won't address that problem, and 3) what will. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on November 26, 2006. Series: In Christ Jesus: How the Spirit Transforms Us. Scripture: Romans 7:1-9, 18-25. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

It's Thursday, December 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 Jonathan Clark European country of Monaco expelled Swiss evangelist Evangelical Focus reports officials in Monaco recently detained and then expelled a Swiss evangelist without much explanation. Monaco is a sovereign city-state in Western Europe, bordered by France to the north, east, and west, with the Mediterranean Sea to the south. Stephan Maag has shared the gospel on streets across 28 European countries. He's known for carrying an 80-pound collapsible cross, generating conversations about Jesus. His evangelistic walks were well-received until he visited Monaco, a microstate in south-eastern France. Police detained Maag, telling him what he was doing was not allowed there. They even told him his cross was too big! The evangelist said, “Nothing like this has ever happened to us in Europe.” In Romans 1:16, the Apostle Paul wrote, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.” Germany beefs up security for iconic Christmas markets German cities are tightening security in preparation for opening their iconic Christmas markets this year. Renardo Schlegelmilch with Germany's largest Catholic radio station said, “There are more than 3,000 Christmas markets every year in Germany, with around 170 million visitors — more than twice the population of the country. They set the tone of Advent, even for people who are not active in the Church.” The security cost for this centuries-old tradition has skyrocketed in recent years. Security concerns have risen since 2016 when an Islamic extremist drove a truck into a Berlin Christmas market, killing 12 people. Mississippi evangelist makes case before Supreme Court The U.S. Supreme Court heard a case involving a Mississippi evangelist yesterday. Gabriel Olivier is an evangelical Christian who desires to share his faith with others. However, the City of Brandon, Mississippi passed an ordinance to effectively silence his evangelism. Lower courts sided with the city. Now, First Liberty Institute is representing Gabriel before the U.S. Supreme Court. The group noted, “Gabe's case could overturn decades of bad precedent in the lower courts. A clarifying opinion from the Supreme Court will bolster the rights and religious freedom of millions.” More U.S. soldiers identify with Christ while U.S. more secular U.S. military members are becoming more religious even as America becomes more secular. That's according to a study by Ryan Burge, a professor at Washington University in St. Louis. The study compared 18- to 45-year-olds in the military and outside the military. Members of the military are more likely to identify as Christians than the rest of the population. Military members are also more likely than civilians to attend church. And church attendance in the military has actually increased over the past 12 years. U.S. military abortions are down The Dallas Express reports that military abortions are down to their lowest level in five years. The military's TRICARE health service program covered five abortions this year as of June, down from 49 abortions in 2021.  This follows efforts by President Donald Trump to cancel abortion-related policies.  Although taxpayer-funded abortions at military facilities are down, the general use of medication-induced abortions has skyrocketed in recent years. Republicans won Tennessee special House of Reps. election The Grand Old Party won the special election for Tennessee's 7th Congressional District on Tuesday.  Republican Matt Van Epps beat Democrat Aftyn Behn by nine percentage points with 53.9% of the vote, reports the Nashville Banner. The victory means Republicans will have a 220-213 majority in the U.S. House of Representatives.  Listen to comments from Epps, thanking God and his supporters for the victory. EPPS: “We did it. Thank you all. This is just an incredible win. Tonight, you've sent a message, loud and clear. The people of Middle Tennessee stand with President Donald J. Trump. First and foremost, I want to thank God for His guidance and grace every step of the way.” Martyred U.S. medical missionary in Congo featured on Time in 1964 And finally, medical missionary Paul Carlson appeared on the covers of Time Magazine and Life Magazine on December 4, 1964, sixty-one years ago today. The successful doctor left a comfortable life in California to be a missionary in Africa. Carlson arrived in the Congo with his wife and two children in 1963. He continued to care for people despite political unrest. However, communist-inspired rebels eventually arrested him and falsely accused him of being an American spy. On November 24, 1964, the rebels opened fire on a group of prisoners, including Carlson. He died helping other prisoners escape the onslaught. Carlson's wife, Lois, carried on her husband's work, supporting medical care and education in the area. His tombstone bears this inscription from John 15:13, “Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, December 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.

Have you laid your 67 percent on the altar? If God has my spirit and my soul, but not my body, isn't He missing about a third of me? Well, we can't split ourselves up into percentages that way. So the question is, if we've given Him less than all, are we really "His" at all? In Romans 12 Paul urges us to give a kind of offering that involves all 3 dimensions of our being. And it's all because of the mercies of God. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS12042025_0.mp3Scripture References: Romans 12:1-18

In Romans 11, Paul shows that God's faithfulness is greater than our failures , that no one is too far gone, and by His mercy we've been grafted into His family. Watch this week's message as we continue our journey through Romans.

God's mercy deserves a reasonable response. In Romans 12, Paul shows us what that response looks like: offering ourselves fully to God, refusing to be shaped by the world, and allowing Him to transform our minds. Mercy means we don't get what we do deserve; grace means we receive what we don't deserve. When we understand the weight of both, the only reasonable response is a life surrendered to Christ and committed to using our gifts for His glory.   Thank you for listening to the Truth for Today Podcast! For more content from Pastor Terry Fant, click the links below! www.youtube.com/@terryfant885 www.facebook.com/terry.fant.14 www.instagram.com/pastorterryfant https://www.truthfortodayministries.org  

As I opened the bookshelf assembly instructions with piles of boards and tools strewn on the floor before me, I viewed a set of instructional diagrams of what to do and what not to do. One diagram—with a large X on top—depicted a person staring at a pile of boards and tools with a bemused frown not unlike mine just a few minutes prior. On the right side was drawn the “correct” way to assemble. The only difference? A second person was there. Both figures now had smiles on their faces as they worked together. So I got my husband. “The instructions say I need your help,” I said, showing him the drawing. He laughed, and we assembled it together. I could have stubbornly tried to find a way to put it together on my own. But the manual was right; the process wasn’t meant to be done alone. In Romans 12, Paul urged new believers to not try to do life in Jesus alone. Instead of seeing themselves as self-sufficient and thinking of themselves “more highly than [they] ought” (v. 3), they needed to see themselves as part of an interdependent body, where every member needs each other’s help (vv. 4-8). As Jesus helps us learn how to “be devoted to one another in love” (v. 10), we can experience life “in harmony” with each other, where one another’s needs, griefs, and joys (vv. 13, 15) are never carried alone.

Because of the gospel, Christians can “suffer well”: suffering is real and painful, but it is not random or final. In Romans 8:18–30, Paul shows that our pain sits inside a larger story of redemption—creation groans, we groan, the Spirit groans with and for us, and God is actively turning suffering into future glory by shaping us into Christ.

Introduction The doctrine of unconditional election, as presented in the Canons of Dort, is often misunderstood as unfair. However, the Canons argue that it is a loving doctrine because it guarantees the fulfillment of God's redemptive decree, ensuring that His people will enter His rest despite our rebellion.Election by Grace The Canons of Dort affirm that God's election is a gracious choice made before the foundation of the world, not based on human merit. This doctrine emphasizes God's sovereignty and mercy, highlighting that humanity's fall into sin was a result of humanities' own rebellion. The Canons also underscore the significance of God's means, such as His Word and Spirit, in drawing individuals to Himself.RC Sproul pointed out that there are four possible options for God's plan of salvation: no salvation, sending Christ without guaranteeing faith, ensuring salvation for some, or ensuring salvation for all. The most gracious options are ensuring salvation for some or all. In Romans 9 Paul addresses the issue of Israel's election and the inclusion of Gentiles in the church. God's election is based on His mercy alone, his good will, and not on human merit or actions.Election without our worksThe doctrine of reprobation, as explained in the canons, asserts that God's election is not based on foreseen faith or human merit. Instead, it is a sovereign act of God's grace, where He chooses some for salvation while passing over others. This is exemplified in the biblical story of Jacob and Esau, where God's choice of Jacob is not based on Esau's perceived unworthiness, but on His own sovereign will.Romans 9 explores the complex relationship between Jacob and Esau, highlighting their differing attitudes towards God's promises. Esau, representing the reprobate, is indifferent to spiritual matters, while Jacob, though zealous for God's promises, relies on his own schemes rather than God's timing. Jacob learns through his limp that God establishes his purposes. It is not based on the man who works. It is based on God's mercy. Our works flow from our election and the Spirit's work. We need to remember that God's election is not cruel, as He allows reprobates to pursue their desires, while the elect, maybe sometimes concerned about their standing, need to realize that the reson we cear is the Spirit's work in us. So believe and live! ConclusionGod is not cruel in His doctrine of election. We need to remember that He allows reprobates to continue on their chosen path, while showing mercy to the elect. The elect, unlike the reprobate, care about Christ and their salvation, which is guaranteed by God's elective purpose and mercy. There is a great comfort in this in our seasons of doubt. If we wonder if we are the reprobate we ought to realize that Esau never cared about that status. He only cared about the earthly standing. Let us proceed in the confidence of Christ. Let us proceed in his mercy. Let us live unto him and die to self as our life and strength are only found in him.

Can you steal a promise? God's promises to Israel - can the church just "appropriate" them? After all, they're not using them. It's hardly even theft. No, as we saw yesterday, God has not disowned the Jewish people. Despite their rejection of the Promised One, His promises stand. In Romans 9 through 11 Paul gives some illustrations of the faithfulness of God. These are historical events that every Hebrew - and every Christian - should know. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS11282025_0.mp3Scripture References: Romans 9-11

Maybe it was the dumb voices I did. But the kids used to love it when I read "Winnie the Pooh" to them. Tigger with his irrepressible "hoo-hoo!" bouncing everywhere. And Eeyore with his head down and his ever-present gloom. I'd rather be Tigger than Eeyore maybe without the bouncing. I mean, I want to be the one to leave sunshine in the room, not storm clouds. That's not so easy. There's plenty to make us Eeyores: overheated schedules, grumpy folks, medical battles, family tension, too little sleep, long delays, aggravating pain, and aggravating people who are a pain. And then there's the antidote - thanksgiving. Well, actually, giving thanks. That may be the difference between being the joy-bringer or the joy-killer. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "Tigger, Eeyore, and Thanksgiving." The "inventors" of our Thanksgiving exemplify that difference. According to H. U. Westermayer, "The Pilgrims made seven times more graves than huts. No Americans have been more impoverished than those who, nevertheless, set aside a day of thanksgiving." There's Thanksgiving, the holiday. Then there's thanks-living, the lifestyle. It's the difference between the dirty window and the blessing glasses. Yep! See, when I look out a dirty window, the whole world looks yucky. Even the really good stuff is dimmed by all the caked-on dirt that's coloring my view. If you've decided your role in life is "victim," it's going to be hard for you to see much that's positive through that window: abused, neglected, abandoned, misunderstood, passed over, or wounded - that's real hurt. But to let those who hurt you define you? That's a self-imposed sentence of despair; denying the many good things because they don't fit the victim narrative - living as a prisoner of your past. Unthankfulness, for whatever reason, breeds some ugly offspring. In Romans 1, God describes how humans end up doing unthinkably depraved things and where that downward slide starts. "They wouldn't worship Him as God or even give Him thanks...their minds became dark and confused" (Romans 1:21 NLT). Okay, here it is. Unthankful heart - dark mind, bitterness, resentment, depression, anger, rebellion against God. They come from an ungrateful heart. Yes, you can choose to go through life looking out your dirty window, seeing all that's wrong. Or, you can choose to put on your blessing glasses that enable you to live, not in denial of the bad stuff but celebrating the goodness of God all around you if you have eyes to see it. And those blessings are always there: the ever-changing masterpiece of the Ultimate Artist all over the sky, the yard, the smile of a friend, the laughter of that child, the roof over your head, the food in the fridge, the job you have, that person who cares. We call them "God-sightings." Actually, thanks-living isn't just an option for a follower of Jesus. It's a command. "Always be joyful." How am I going to do that, for heaven's sake? Well, in our word for today from the Word of God in 1 Thessalonians 5:16 and 18, where it says, "Always be joyful." It also says, "Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Jesus." When you look at life through blessing glasses, all kinds of good things blossom: joy that's from what's happening in your spirit, not your situation, peace that banishes anxiety, faith that sees a God who's bigger than whatever is bigger than you are. Thanksgiving's a great time to become intentional about collecting blessings, not burdens. Living "with gratitude in your hearts to God." For me, that thanks begins, not at a turkey-filled table, but at an old rugged cross where I once again allow myself to be leveled by the love of my Jesus who took my hell so I can spend forever in His heaven. Thanksgiving and thanks-living begin with the love that will never let me go.

People Living Lives in which Sin Is Normal Are Missing the Peace and Fruits of the Holy Spirit MESSAGE SUMMARY: In our world, today, people say that it is OK to sin, but sinning is not OK because if you are sinning, the Holy Spirit is not in you. If you are filled with the Holy Spirit, then the fruit of the Holy Spirit will be present in your life. You cannot exhibit the fruit of the flesh, sin, and be filled with the Holy Spirit. Paul explains, simply, the link between being a Jesus Follower and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in 1 Corinthians 6:17: “But he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him.". In Romans 12:2, Paul describes God's expectations for us to live in the Spirit and not in the flesh {sin}: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.". The fruit of the Holy Spirit includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control.     TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, you know how difficult it is for me to be in silence before you. At times it feels almost impossible, given the demands, distractions, and noise all around me. I invite you to lead me to a quiet, silent place before you — to a place where I can hear you as Elijah did. In Jesus' name, amen.     Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 123). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Compulsions. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Patience. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV):  Ephesians 4:19-24; Romans 8:16-17; 1 Corinthians 6:17-20; Psalms 145b:12-21. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Turkeys and Eagles, Part 5: Following Jesus Changes Everything in Our Families”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Tradition for Transformation: How many people assume they're good with God because they grew up in a Christian home or go to church each week? In Romans 2, Paul explains that it's not religious traditions that matter, but a true transformation of the heart. Tune in to Week Five of Lean In - Vol. 2 here as Elder Andy touches on Romans 2:17-3:8

In Romans 5, Paul reveals one prize after another for knowing Jesus Christ. Before Christ, we were enemies of God and at war with him, but through Jesus, the war with God is over, and we now live in a realm where grace reigns.

In Romans 5, Paul reveals one prize after another for knowing Jesus Christ. Before Christ, we were enemies of God and at war with him, but through Jesus, the war with God is over, and we now live in a realm where grace reigns.

In Romans 10, Paul shows the clarity, simplicity, and urgency of the Gospel, and that we're called to help others hear the good news! Watch this week's message as we continue our journey through Romans.

In Romans 5:12-21, Paul explains that Adam's one sin brings condemnation for everyone, but Christ's one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone who trusts Christ as savior. God's wonderful grace rules giving us peace with God in spite of our sin.  God promises that whoever receives His free gift of salvation will live in triumph over sin and death. Pastor Rick Wager spoke this message to CrossPoint Church.

Confirmation, and conformation. When "Christians" don't want to become holy, we have to question whether they're truly born again. But when believers try to sanctify themselves through obeying the Law of God, there's no question they'll fail. In Romans 8 we find the solution: living by the Spirit. He will confirm to us that we belong to Him, and He will conform us to the image of Jesus.That's a process. Here's Jim reading Romans 8, verse 2. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS11212025_0.mp3Scripture References: Romans 7-8

In Romans 14:19, Paul wrote, “let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.” Living in harmony requires understanding that every Christian is in a different place in their walk with God. Liberty in Christ must be handled with care, even as it is enjoyed. Tune in to hear Pastor Chuck Swindoll discuss a believer's freedom and the principles to use it well. Learn how to balance liberty in Christ with consideration of others. Discover how to agree on the essentials and relax on the nonessentials!

In Romans 14:19, Paul wrote, “let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.” Living in harmony requires understanding that every Christian is in a different place in their walk with God. Liberty in Christ must be handled with care, even as it is enjoyed. Tune in to hear Pastor Chuck Swindoll discuss a believer's freedom and the principles to use it well. Learn how to balance liberty in Christ with consideration of others. Discover how to agree on the essentials and relax on the nonessentials!

In Romans 14:19, Paul wrote, "let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up." Living in harmony requires understanding that every Christian is in a different place in their walk with God.Liberty in Christ must be handled with care, even as it is enjoyed. Tune in to hear Pastor Chuck Swindoll discuss a believer's freedom and the principles to use it well.Learn how to balance liberty in Christ with consideration of others. Discover how to agree on the essentials and relax on the nonessentials! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/82/29?v=20251111

"In Romans 7, Paul describes the inner conflict of wanting to do good but struggling with sin. Is Paul speaking autobiographically as a mature Christian, describing life under the law before Christ, or something else? How should chapter 8 shape a Christian's daily confidence and hope, especially in seasons of suffering? In today's episode, Katie Shemanske and Watermark member, Raegan Driskell talk about Romans 7-9 and discuss the tension of pursing good while being saved by grace through faith and how we can rest in the knowledge of Christ's work for us. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df Check out the Romans Study Sheet: https://assets.ctfassets.net/t8fa2ob1jrlx/5s8w4Q1S8mV7rYF9xDMTce/be2eb8581330ab60913b8af592a6a543/45-Romans-Study-Sheet.pdf"

In Romans 14:19, Paul wrote, “let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.” Living in harmony requires understanding that every Christian is in a different place in their walk with God. Liberty in Christ must be handled with care, even as it is enjoyed. Tune in to hear Pastor Chuck Swindoll discuss a believer's freedom and the principles to use it well. Learn how to balance liberty in Christ with consideration of others. Discover how to agree on the essentials and relax on the nonessentials!

In Romans 14:19, Paul wrote, “let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.” Living in harmony requires understanding that every Christian is in a different place in their walk with God. Liberty in Christ must be handled with care, even as it is enjoyed. Tune in to hear Pastor Chuck Swindoll discuss a believer's freedom and the principles to use it well. Learn how to balance liberty in Christ with consideration of others. Discover how to agree on the essentials and relax on the nonessentials!

In Romans 14:19, Paul wrote, "let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up." Living in harmony requires understanding that every Christian is in a different place in their walk with God.Liberty in Christ must be handled with care, even as it is enjoyed. Tune in to hear Pastor Chuck Swindoll discuss a believer's freedom and the principles to use it well.Learn how to balance liberty in Christ with consideration of others. Discover how to agree on the essentials and relax on the nonessentials! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/82/29?v=20251111

We're peeking behind the scenes into how God's transfer process works! In Romans 5 and 6 we see the transmission of Adam's primal guilt to us through our "DNA," if you will; the transfer of Jesus' innocence to us through faith; our change from spiritual death to life... and, as we mentioned yesterday, our graduation from being pardoned on paper, to becoming a functional citizen of the Kingdom of God. Here's Jim with more. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS11182025_0.mp3Scripture References: Romans 5-8

Jesus Followers “also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation" While We Are Still Sinners MESSAGE SUMMARY: No one, including you, can separate you from the love of God. While we were and are still sinners, Jesus the Christ died for us. God loves you exactly where you are; God loves you no matter what you said about Him; and He loves you no matter what you have done. In Romans 5:8-11, Paul confirms God's unconditional love for us: “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.".   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, I now take a deep breath and stop. So often I miss your hand and gifts in my life because I am preoccupied and anxious. Grant me the power to pause each day and each week to simply rest in your arms of love. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 132). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, because of I am filled with the Holy Spirit, I will not be controlled by my Anxiety. Rather, I will walk in the Spirit's fruit of Peace. “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22f). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV):  Romans 6:23; John 17:1-26; John 5:24; Psalms 139b:13-24. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Thanks-Living”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Today on the program, we're going to see what trials can do for us and how best to respond to them! In Romans chapter five, the apostle Paul mentions a few of the things that trials produce in our lives. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/621/29?v=20251111

Since Charlie Kirk's assassination, more people are naming the name of Jesus in public. And many Christians think that if they are willing to mention the name of Jesus Christ in public that they are not ashamed of Him or His gospel. But is that really what scripture teaches?In Romans 1, Paul says that he is not ashamed of the gospel, and then he says two things1) For it is the power of God to salvation2) In it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The Just shall live by faith”It is easy to miss what this means for us. Paul is saying that words are not enough, that we must confront and deal with the sin in us and around us. It is not enough to say his name, we must walk in righteousness. In this episode, we look at what is required to confront unrighteousness both when we are in public in private. We also look back at times when John MacArthur and Voddie Baucham were given the opportunity to confront evil and they both set a good example. But because most of us will never be on national television, we also talk about what this looks like in our everyday life. We also try to look at some situations where Charlie Kirk didn't stand up for the gospel in the way that he probably should have. The point isn't to beat him up, it's to make sure we don't make him the pinnacle. Christ is the example we are to follow. Paul and the apostles. The words of God and how they challenge and direct us to stand for righteousness. That is what we are to look to. Timecodes00:00 Ashamed of the Gospel07:40 John MacArthur15:55 Voddie Baucham20:30 Charlie Kirk24:54 Kirk to a Homosexual28:53 Validating Sin in the Church37:45 What This Says About Kirk49:23 Kirk on Mormons55:40 Proclaiming the Gospel01:07:15 Rejecting the Power of the GospelProduction of Reformation Baptist Church of Youngsville, NCPermanent Hosts - Dan Horn, Charles Churchill and Joshua HornTechnical Director - Timothy KaiserTheme Music - Gabriel Hudelson

In Romans 9, Paul explains that God chooses according to His mercy, and righteousness comes through faith in Jesus alone. Watch this week's message as we continue our journey through Romans.

In Romans 9, Paul answers several questions about men and the conditions of their salvation. But before he begins to entertain those questions, he rightly grounds the discussion in the only proper place it ought to be grounded — in Him who calls.

Presented by Lauren Stibgen As Christians, we often consider ourselves servant leaders, but how was this phrase born into our business vocabulary as something to aspire to whether you are a follower of Jesus or not? And why do we consider servant leadership biblical at all? First, for those of you who missed the conversation about the roots of servant leadership in secular business, it all began in 1970 when Robert Greenleaf mused over an allegory about a servant who ended up being a leader of a great band of men. This story was not biblical, but it sparked the thought that those who serve with an others-first focus can become some of the greatest leaders; more than leaders who are bestowed with a title who desire power, authority, and self-focused gratification. The phrase servant leader is not specifically found in the Bible. How many times is the word leader even used in the Bible? Just a quick look in my Bible's concordance—you know the list of words in the back with references to verses—the word leader is not listed. Only, lead, leads and led. People who lead are listed. Rulers along with kings, but both rulers and kings would better describe appointed positions of authority. In the New Testament, the word diakonia—meaning servant or service—is the most used word to describe people in leadership. Not surprising the words servant, servants, serve, and service take up much more space in the concordance than any of the other “official” terms for the appointed offices. Perhaps this is why we are drawn to the term servant leader as followers of Jesus. It is deeply connected to the Word of God in describing those in the early church. In Romans 16:1 speaks of Phoebe, a servant and patron of the church. 1 Corinthians 3:5 exhorts, What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. We know each of these servants were in fact leaders of the early church. All early church leaders had one thing in common—submission and obedience to the will of God in their lives. They looked to their relationship with God in Jesus before even considering the work before them. In his book, Forgotten God, Francis Chan sums up our need for seeking and submission well in his introduction when he writes, “…as believers we can never be done with God. He is infinite and we are finite; there will always be more of his character to discover, more of his love to experience and more of his power to use for his purposes.”[1] More of his power—not my power—to lead. His power made perfect through me for his purposes. True servant leadership begins in submission to God through Christ Jesus. We see this throughout Scripture. We see the success of those who submit themselves to the Lord's will and the failure and despair of those who choose to lead by selfish ambition and pride. True servant leadership as a follower of Jesus Christ starts with a posture of submission. Is this on a leadership description for your next job—must be willing to submit. We can all say probably not. But are you willing to submit in order to become a better servant leader? God rarely uses the shiny, well-educated people to make the biggest impact for his kingdom. Remember, the disciples were mostly fishermen and a tax collector! So, if you are submitted, be prepared for God to use you as a servant leader right where you are! I have thought a lot about the Old Testament prophet Elijah. Submission to the will of God was most of his story, and God used him to glorify himself during a deeply sinful time filled with idol worship. Found in 1 Kings, God used Elijah to give word to Ahab of a drought in the land. During this time, the Lord sent Elijah away where ravens and a non-Israelite widow provided for him! We learn he stayed by a river for a while, and when it dried up, Elijah moved on. He was completely reliant on God and obedient to his call. Finally,

God's righteousness is bad news for us... and good news. In Romans 1, Paul lays out his topic for the letter: righteousness: The absolute perfection of God's moral character. We discover that we're immoral, impure, even rebels against the Right; and we realize that we have no future. We corrupt ones cannot coexist with His incorruption. But then Paul tells us that the righteousness that condemns us, can save us. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS11142025_0.mp3Scripture References: Romans 1-5

The study presents a comprehensive theological exploration of Paul's epistles to the Galatians and Romans, centering on the doctrine of justification by faith alone and the freedom found in Christ. It emphasizes that Christian liberty is not license but a liberation from the bondage of legalism, particularly the Judaizers' insistence on circumcision and adherence to the Mosaic law, which Paul rejects as contrary to the gospel. The sermon highlights the contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit, underscoring that true Christian identity is marked by love, humility, and spiritual transformation rather than external rules. In Romans, it unfolds the universal sinfulness of humanity—both Gentiles and Jews—before establishing that salvation is available to all through faith in Christ alone, apart from the deeds of the law, grounded in God's grace and the atoning work of Jesus. The message culminates in a call to live in the Spirit, bear one another's burdens, and prioritize love within the household of faith, while remaining vigilant against false teachings that distort the gospel.

When we hear the term spiritual gifts, most Christians see it as this mystical, almost magical work of God that comes over you, and all of a sudden, you can speak in tongues or heal people, but is that how the Bible describes spiritual gifts in practice?The Pentecostal movement has, in many ways, driven the conversation about spiritual gifts and the way that we use language to discuss them. Even many Reformed Christians have been affected by their teaching and often describe the work of the Holy Spirit through gifts as something so miraculous and supernatural that their operation must be opposed to ordinary means. But Paul, who is the apostle that teaches the most about spiritual gifts, doesn't treat them that way. In Romans 1, he plainly talks about imparting spiritual gifts to the church in Rome and in Corinthians and Timothy, he talks about spiritual gifts as if they can be practiced and built up in a way that suggests that they are not as “magical” as the Pentecostals would have us think. So here's the question: If spiritual gifts are not opposed to ordinary means, how should we think of spiritual gifts and their use in the church?Timecodes00:00:00 Intro00:01:01 Miracle of God's grace00:06:21 Healing is a grace of God00:14:57 Diversity of gifts00:20:28 Gift of language a grace00:28:59 Gifts that are hard to see as pure miraculous manifestations00:42:26 Given at times to unbelievers00:52:06 Given to all believersProduction of Reformation Baptist Church of Youngsville, NCPermanent Hosts - Dan Horn, Charles Churchill and Joshua HornTechnical Director - Timothy KaiserTheme Music - Gabriel Hudelson

When everything looked hopeless, when humanity's track record proved we could never measure up, two small words changed everything: But now. In Romans 3:19–31, we see the dramatic turning point of the gospel. God's righteousness is no longer distant or hidden in commandments. It's revealed through His Son, Jesus Christ. This message lifts listeners from despair, showing that justification isn't earned through effort. It's received through faith.This sermon peels back the layers of what Paul calls “the righteousness of God apart from the law,” helping us see the beauty of salvation that doesn't depend on human accomplishment but divine accomplishment. It's a reminder that the cross didn't just change our standing before God. It changed everything about how we live and see ourselves in Christ.In this message, you will discover:· The stunning shift that happened in salvation history with the words “But now.”· What it truly means to have “righteousness apart from the law” and why that's good news.· How faith goes beyond belief into active trust that transforms.· The mistake of basing our justification on our sanctification.· The depth of what it means that Jesus is our propitiation. The payment that satisfies.· The life-changing implications of justification: a new identity, deep humility, genuine thankfulness, and bold confidence.Support our mission and learn more atwww.alloflife.churchGive to the work of the gospel herewww.alloflife.churchcenter.com/giving

Romans 8:18 — In Romans 8:18, Paul says that no present trial or suffering is to compare with the glory that is to come. What would enable a person to say that? In this sermon on Romans 8:18 titled “A Share in the Glory,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains this view of Christians in two viewpoints. There are certain sufferings that only Christians have but a Christian also has a hope that is to come and this outshines any hardships they are currently experiencing. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains that a Christian has a correct view of time and their life in this world. There is a distinct separation of time in this present world and then there is eternity with Christ. Dr. Lloyd-Jones also says that the Christian has grasped Scripture in light of what is to come. A Christian should continually declare the name of the Lord and do His will until that day comes; everything one does should be done in light of that great day. The future glory is already here but has not yet been revealed. Christians do not belong to this present age but are citizens of another age and eagerly awaiting that day. Those who are in Christ will not be spectators but actual partakers of that glory. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29

In Romans 12:9–13, Paul paints a picture of love that doesn't just feel—it acts. This message invites us to move from being guests to becoming hosts, from attending church to embodying the welcome of Jesus in everyday life. When we love sincerely, notice intentionally, and practice radical hospitality, the gospel moves from our gatherings into our neighborhoods.To support this ministry and help us continue our God given mission, click here: http://bit.ly/2NZkdrC Support the show

In Romans 8, Paul reminds us that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. We've been freed by the Spirit, called to walk in peace, and loved with a love that nothing can separate us from. Watch this week's message as we continue our journey through Romans.

Romans Vol. 1 - Coming Under GracePaul shows that people naturally make excuses to avoid taking responsibility for sin, shifting blame or rationalizing wrongdoing to protect their self-image and justify their actions. In Romans 3:3–8, he dismantles these arguments, revealing that no excuse can exempt anyone from guilt—and that our only hope for forgiveness and salvation is found through faith in Jesus Christ.Sermon Preached by Chris Lewis on November 9, 2025Foothill Church exists to glorify God by living as disciples of Jesus who make disciples of Jesus.https://foothill.churchLearn about our For the Sake of His Name 2-Year Discipleship Journey:https://foothill.church/FTSOHN

Scripture says "to know good and not do it is a sin" (James 4:17), but what do you do when your flesh is weak?! How do you combat the urge to satisfy fleshly desires? In Romans 12, Paul would say a key component is being fervent or passionate in spirit; relying fully on the power of the Holy Spirit in the face of temptation!

The reality of God's sovereignty in salvation and the promise that no one and nothing can separate the Christian from God's love are reasons for all who are in Christ to rejoice. However, these same truths will lead many to ask important and sometimes difficult questions. One such question is what about Israel, what about the Jews? In Romans 9 through 11, the Apostle Paul addresses this question; in doing so, he not only provides answers, but he gives us an example of what it means to be burdened for those we know and love who are separated from Christ.

Sunday, 9 November 2025   But when Herod's birthday was celebrated, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod. Matthew 14:6   “And being Herod's birthday, she danced, the daughter of Herodias, in the midst. And she pleased Herod” (CG).   In the previous verse, it was noted that although Herod wanted to put John the Immerser to death, he feared the multitude because they reckoned him to be a prophet. It next says, “And being Herod's birthday.”   A new word is seen: genesia, birthday. It is the plural of genesis, which means birth, origin, and genealogy. It signifies one's recurring birthday or the ceremonies accompanying it. Despite being plural, rendering it in the singular is to accommodate the standard usage in English. On his birthday, “she danced, the daughter of Herodias.”   This was Salome, the daughter of Herodias by her former husband. Victorian-era commentaries on this condemn the matter as if it were the most inappropriate event imaginable, remarking how sensual and voluptuous the scene must have been. Ellicott's comments reflect their general sentiment –   “Dances in filmy garments that but half concealed the form, commonly of an impure or voluptuous nature, were common enough both at Eastern and Roman banquets, the guests being simply spectators. But the dancers were, for the most part, women who made it their calling, like the nautch-girls of India; and it was a new thing, at which every decent Jew would shudder, for the daughter of a kingly house to come-thus into a shameless publicity and expose herself to the gaze of the banqueters.” Charles Ellicott   One must wonder what such scholars do with the contents of the Song of Songs! Dances have been common at public and private gatherings for all of human history. Cultural norms set the parameters for such things, and it is only the most prudish sort that would condemn such things without considering them in more than their own limited context. Of Salome's dancing, it next says it was “in the midst.”   The meaning is that she would have been in the midst of the room, hall, etc., with those in attendance gathered around. When dances or performers came in, the people would direct their attention to the event. In the case of Salome's dancing, it next says, “And she pleased Herod.”   Another new word is seen, areskó. It signifies to be agreeable and thus, to please. In Romans 8:8, Paul says that those who are in the flesh cannot please [areskó] God. Herod saw the dance and found it satisfying.   Life application: One of the ridiculous standards set forth in the Jehovah's Witnesses is that they do not celebrate birthdays. Their reasoning is that only two birthday celebrations are noted in Scripture, and both are held by bad guys, Pharaoh and Herod.   Therefore, they illogically deduce that God finds the celebration of birthdays unacceptable. Such a conclusion is based on several fallacies. One of them is what is known as an argument from silence.   An argument from silence is when one makes a faulty conclusion based on it not being stated in a source. Yes, there are two examples of birthdays in the Bible, but they merely present the basis for what occurs in the surrounding narrative. There is no need to mention other birthdays, but because no other birthdays are mentioned, the supposedly obvious conclusion is that nobody else observed them, and those who did were bad people.   Another fallacy that accompanies their inane logic is known as a slippery slope. There are various types of slippery slope fallacies, such as the causal, precedential, and conceptual. The conceptual argument is that because no clear line between two concepts on a spectrum exists, there is no meaningful difference between them.   So if Pharaoh and Herod had birthdays and they resulted in negative events or had negative effects, then all birthdays must result in negative outcomes. This is also known as the fallacy of the beard. A person doesn't shave for 12 hours, and he develops a shadow on his face. By the next morning, he has stubble. In two days, he will have bristly hairs.   At what point is it called a beard? The argument is ridiculous, whether it is based on a birthday or a beard. The thought process is unclear and has no basis in reality. Unfortunately, such fallacies are not limited to the Jehovah's Witnesses. They permeate the thinking of the people of the world, including those in the church.   Because of this, all sorts of legalism creep into churches. That is as harmful as a liberal attitude toward Scripture. Whether adding in rules and regulations that have nothing to do with biblical intent, or ignoring things made explicit in Scripture because they don't suit personal mores, the results will always be unhealthy, even detrimental.   Learn about fallacies and remember to think clearly and critically when evaluating the reasons why people come to conclusions. Quite often, you will see where the faulty thinking lies, and you will be able to avoid it.   Lord God, may we learn to think clearly and critically about what Your word presents. Help us not get caught up in things that pull our hearts and minds away from focusing on You. At the same time, may we live our lives in the manner that will bring You glory while also enjoying the lives You have given us here in this world. Amen.  

In Romans 15:8–21, Pastor Josiah Graves unpacks Paul's vision of a life aligned with God's mission, showing how purpose flows from Jesus' call to bring hope to all people.

Romans 8:16 — When Satan tempts the Christian to despair or tells them that they are not a child of God, they can turn to the word of God and find an abundance of assurance based upon the promises of the Scriptures. In this sermon on Roman 8:16 titled “The Witness of the Spirit,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones does not discount the amount of assurance found by going to the Bible. He argues, however, that there is an even greater level of assurance that the believer can have. In Romans 8:16, the apostle Paul mentions the witness of the Spirit. This witness of the Spirit, says Dr. Lloyd-Jones, is the same as the baptism of the Spirit, or the sealing of the Spirit, found elsewhere in Scripture. While every Christian has the Spirit of adoption and is a child of God, not all have the witness of the Spirit. This is a second blessing that comes upon a believer for the purpose of assurance. Moreover, it illumines the believer's understanding with respect to salvation. In essence, it is a special way the love of God is poured out on a particular believer in the quietness of the heart. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones gives an extended teaching on the witness of the Spirit and breaks down the Scriptures in order to gain insight and understanding to this special work of the Holy Spirit.