Podcasts about in romans

In Romans 7, Paul describes the reality of our struggle with sin. Meredith Knox explains our relationship to the Old Testament Law and how, through Christ, we are now released from its power. In Romans 7, Paul describes the reality of our struggle with sin. Meredith Knox explains our relationship to the Old Testament Law and how, through Christ, we are now released from its power.

How will people believe in Jesus if no one ever tells them about him? In Romans 10:5-15, Paul shows us God's plan for taking the good news of Jesus to the world: He sends his people, the gospel is shared, people hear, they believe, and they call on Jesus. But billions of people around the world still live without access to the gospel. And for those of us who have heard, it can be easy to assume that reaching them is someone else's responsibility. In this message, Pastor Kyle unpacks why telling others about Jesus matters and what it looks like for every Christian and every local church to take part in God's mission. In this message, you'll discover: - Why we cannot save ourselves through good works or religious activity - What it means to believe in Jesus and confess him as Lord - Why anyone can be saved through faith in Jesus - What the Bible says about people who have never heard about Jesus - Why people need to hear the gospel in order to believe - How God uses ordinary people to bring the gospel to others - What it means to pray, give, go, and send so others can hear Whether across the street or across the world, God has chosen to use his people to carry the good news of Jesus to those who need to hear.

God never intended his people to serve Him alone. In Romans 16:21-23, Paul exemplifies for us that the church is connected with like-minded believers to work, share, and stand together for the advancement of the gospel.

Does God choose who is saved? Is that fair? And if God is sovereign over salvation, are people still responsible for how they respond to Him? In Romans 9:14-24, Pastor Kyle walks through one of the most debated passages in the Bible, exploring election, God's justice, the hardening of Pharaoh's heart, and the mystery of God's sovereignty. At the center of the passage is a truth that changes the way we think about salvation: "no one is owed God's mercy." If God gave us only what we deserved, none of us would be saved. The surprising thing is not that God doesn't show mercy to everyone, but that He shows mercy to anyone. In this message, you'll discover: - Why God's sovereignty in salvation does not make Him unjust - What the Bible means when it says God hardened Pharaoh's heart - How human responsibility and God's sovereignty fit together - Why mercy cannot be demanded or deserved - What the potter and clay illustration teaches us about God - Why the doctrine of election should produce humility, worship, assurance, and evangelism rather than pride or passivity - How to respond when Scripture leaves us with mystery we cannot completely explain Romans 9 does not answer every question we may have about predestination and election. Instead, it confronts our tendency to put God on trial and invites us to trust that He is both completely sovereign and completely just.

What does it really look like to love like Jesus—even when people hurt us, oppose us, or treat us badly?In Romans 12, Paul gives us a radically different picture of love: one that refuses revenge, pursues peace, and chooses to overcome evil with good.Join us for Week 9 of When in Romans as we discover what it means to love differently.

Have you ever pondered what it means to be ‘born again' as a Christian believer?When we give our hearts to the Lord, asking Him to forgive our sins and guide our lives, we are making God a promise: we no longer claim the right to follow our own paths or to focus on our own agendas.We are redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ, shed on the cross on our behalf so that we can be forgiven and live with the Lord for all eternity, when our temporary earthly lives are over.In Romans 14:8, the Apostle Paul says, “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”When we profess our faith as Christian believers, we are saying we will live for the Lord, and we will die for Him as well. Living or dead, our souls belong to the Savior. As believers living for the Lord, this means we will make choices that honor Him and ultimately serve His goals and plans. We will ever and always belong to the Lord. Understanding that should impact how we view every choice we make, and how we tackle every challenge.Let's pray.Dear Lord, we give you everything. Our choices, our actions, and our reactions. We ask for clarity in the decisions we make, and that you make us ever dependent on your wisdom and your perfect plan. 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.

Two-factor Authentication (2FA) requires users to verify their identity using two separate methods before gaining access. This usually involves entering a password and then a code is sent to your phone.  If either one is missing, you haven't done what is required and you won't get in. In Romans, has Paul just told us we need to complete a "two-factor authentication" if want access to eternal life? Is he really saying that Jesus has done His part, now it's up to us to do ours to complete the work?  Actually, with these words Paul wants you to take great comfort in knowing Who has verified whom.

In Romans 15:1-13, Paul continues his teaching on Christian unity and addresses how we should respond when fellow Christians have different convictions, opinions, and consciences.Rather than pleasing ourselves or judging those who think differently, Paul calls Christians to bear with one another, build one another up, and pursue unity. The ultimate example is Jesus, who did not please Himself but willingly carried our burdens.In this lesson, we explore: What it means to “bear” with our brothers and sisters  How Christians can disagree without dividing  Why we should build one another up rather than judge  How Jesus is the ultimate example of selfless service  The role of Scripture in giving us endurance, encouragement, and hope  What it means to live together in harmony and with “one voice”  Why our unity ultimately brings glory to God  How our hope in Christ helps us endure our differences 

In Romans 15:14-33, Paul reminds Christians that we are not simply recipients of the gospel—we are ministers of the gospel. Our service to Christ is a privilege, our relationships with one another are a blessing, and our ambition should be to share the gospel in both word and deed.In this lesson, we look at Paul's example of ministry and consider what it means to:See our brothers and sisters as people filled with goodness and knowledgeAllow ourselves to be instructed by one anotherEmbrace our role as ministers of ChristDiscover how God has gifted us for serviceBoast in Christ rather than ourselvesMake the gospel our ambitionServe others through both word and deedRecognize that ministry is a lifelong callingDepend on prayer as an essential part of our servicePaul's heart for people and his passion for the gospel challenge us to ask: What has Christ accomplished through me, and how can I bring that to the world?

We cannot just have the Paul's theology, we need to have his tears and his burden for the lost. In Romans 9, unbelief isn't approached as a theological problem to solve. Rather, Paul is heartbroken over people he loves who are far from Christ. But their unbelief also raises some difficult questions. Israel had every spiritual advantage, yet many still rejected Jesus. Had God's promises failed? And what does that reveal about how salvation actually works? In Romans 9:1-13, Pastor Kyle explores God's faithfulness, human unbelief, and the sovereignty of God in salvation. In this message, you'll discover: - Why Christians should be brokenhearted over people who don't know Jesus - Why you can be surrounded by spiritual privileges and still not have spiritual life - What it means to be “religiously lost” - Why human unbelief does not mean God's promises have failed - How Romans 9 begins to challenge the way we think about God's sovereignty and salvation - Why difficult truths about God should lead us to humility, worship, and a willingness to let Scripture change us Romans 9 may raise questions we can't answer easily, but Paul shows us how to enter those questions with both conviction and compassion: trusting God's Word while asking him to give us a heart for those who don't yet know Christ.

What does it look like to live with the heart of Jesus toward the people around us? In Romans 10:1–4, Paul reveals a deep burden for his fellow Israelites and shows us what it means to live with mercy, compassion, prayer, faith, and a mission to point others to Jesus.In this message, we discover that mercy changes how we see others, challenges us to examine our motives, and points people toward the hope found in Jesus. As followers of Christ, we aren't simply called to receive God's grace—we are called to become ambassadors of mercy and reconciliation.

What should our response be when we truly understand the mercy of God?In Romans 12:1–2, Paul challenges us to look at everything God has done for us and ask a different question: “God, because of Your mercy, what can I do for You?”God's mercy changes everything—how we see God, how we see ourselves, and how we live.Join us for Week 8 of When in Romans as we discover what it really looks like to respond to the incredible mercy of God.

John 8:39-59 Our sermon text this morning is John 8:39-59. In the provided pew Bibles, you can find that on page 1063. This is a continuation of Jesus' dialog with the Pharisees. In our verses last week, Jesus told them that true disciples would know the truth and the truth would set them free. Remember, he was speaking about knowing him and being set free from slavery to sin. Well, the Pharisees did not think they were enslaved to anything. Because they were physical descendants of Abraham, they believed they were in right standing before God. In response, Jesus made it absolutely clear that they were not true sons but rather slaves. Jesus alluded to the fact that they had a different father. As I read, be listening for who their father truly was. Reading of John 8:39-59 Prayer I'm not proud of this, but when I was in elementary school, I often did not want to listen to my sister. And so, I would plug my ears and sometimes I would also say over and over "I can't hear you. I can't hear you." By the way, that had the side effect of irritating her. Honestly, it was very immature. I'm thankful for the Lord's work in my heart over time. But it is true that sometimes we just don't want to listen. We don't literally plug our ears, but we sometimes walk away or just dismiss everything that someone else says. We see that on display in public. Sometimes, people walk out of speeches on purpose like at college graduations. Other times, people heckle to distract the speaker and prevent other people from hearing. Honestly, those tactics say more about the people protesting than the one speaking. Well, in our verses today, it's as if the Pharisees had their ears plugged. They did not want to listen to anything that Jesus said. Jesus even pointed that out to them. Look at verse 43. He said, "you cannot bear to hear my words." And at the end of verse 47, Jesus said, "The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God." That's pretty intense. Really, this whole dialog, as you heard, is very intense. In fact, in the narrative arc of John's Gospel, chapter 8 is the climax of the verbal conflict between Jesus and the Jews. It began back in chapter 5 when Jesus healed a man on the Sabbath. It continued in chapter 6 when Jesus claimed to be the manna from heaven because he is the Son of God. It escalated in chapter 7 when Jesus declared that he was living water bringing eternal life. And now in chapter 8, Jesus and the Pharisees have come to this heated confrontation. To be sure, I'm not saying that these verses are the climax of the conflict. No, that will happen in the immediate lead-up to the cross. Rather, these verses are the climax of their interaction. And in the back and forth, we learn who is truly driving the Pharisees' anger and hate, and that is the devil himself. So, let's consider this text. We'll do that in three points this morning. 1. The Fight Over Fatherhood - you know, who is the Pharisees' real father and why? 2. The One Greater than Abraham - Jesus declares that he himself is God 3. The Triumph of Abraham's True Descendants - who are the true descendants of Abraham, and what benefit do they receive? That's where we are headed. 1. The Fight Over Fatherhood (8:39-50, 52) Again, #1, the Fight Over Fatherhood As you heard, Abraham is a central figure in the conflict. According to the Pharisees, because they were Abraham's physical offspring, they considered themselves God's people, with God as their ultimate father. But, as you heard, Jesus made very clear that they were not acting as true sons of Abraham. Jesus essentially gave them two reasons. ·      First, they were not doing the works that Abraham did. He said that right there in verse 39. Jesus then pointed to the Pharisees' desire to kill him. Their murderous desires betrayed Abraham. Abraham was a man of deep faith and he demonstrated that many times. He lived out his faith. Abraham responded to God's commands. Abraham's true spiritual children would not be acting like the Pharisees. ·      Second, not only were they not doing the works that Abraham did, but they were also not honoring God. The Pharisees were not listening to his word, as I mentioned earlier. They would not even consider that perhaps Jesus was the Messiah. Later in our text, Jesus made it absolutely clear that they were dishonoring God the Father by dishonoring him. That was very different from Abraham. Multiple times in Abraham's life, God spoke to him. Abraham humbled himself and listened to God and his word. Abraham lived out his faith by hearing God and believing. Now, just to be sure, Abraham was a sinner, but he sought the Lord by faith. The Pharisees, on the other hand, had no faith and no desire to seek the Lord. And for those reasons, Jesus declared that their true father was the devil. The Pharisees demonstrated through their lies and deceit and murderous hearts that they were not of Abraham, they were not of God, but rather, they were of the devil. In response, the Pharisees lashed out at Jesus. They questioned Jesus' origin. They told Jesus that he was a Samaritan, whom the Pharisees hated, and they accused Jesus of having a demon. Do you see how the conflict has reached new heights? A couple of times in the past, we've talked about how the Gospel of John is written like a play. Each chapter is like a new scene. You know, the curtain opens; the audience sees a new setting; we then witness Jesus speaking to different people. In each scene, Jesus reveals who he is in different ways. Well, for the apostle John's Jewish audience, every new scene challenged their understanding of God and Jesus and the purpose of their Jewish practices and beliefs. I want you to imagine that you are a Jew in the late first century. Imagine that you are hearing this for the first time. And imagine how shocking this interaction would have been. I mean, the tension had been escalating, but then Jesus drops the bomb in verse 44: "You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him." Think about how that would have come across. The Pharisees were the Jewish authorities. And yet, Jesus called them out as having the devil as their father. You see, the Apostle John was pressing against his readers' presuppositions and beliefs. He wanted them to re-evaluate everything. He wanted them to see that the very one at the center of it all is truly the promised One, the Son of God. John wanted them to know that there is no place for neutrality. Now, you may be sitting here, and you may be thinking, "Ok, but I don't live in the first century and I'm not Jewish. Why does this matter?" Let me try to answer that. In John's Gospel, the unbelieving Pharisees are the main antagonists. Really, they are the antagonists in all the Gospels. But their unbelief is representative of any and all outright rejection of Christ… back then and today. Not only do they not know God, they are hostile to him. They do not care to listen. Their hearts are full of murder and lies. Jesus is their enemy. They hate him and hate those that love him. On the outside, they are religious, but their religion is driven by the devil whose goal is to undermine the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Their opposition to Jesus is the same opposition to Jesus that we see in different ways today. We see that opposition in false religions. We see a similar rejection in the hearts of those opposed to God and opposed to truth and opposed to his standard of right and wrong. That includes those who present a perversion of who Jesus is or reject his divine or human nature. And it is all driven by the devil. You see, we are engaged in a cosmic battle of light versus darkness. It's a battle of the truth of God versus the lies and murders of the great enemy of faith. The hard thing for us is that we live in a time and place where the Christian ethic is still relatively strong. And so, we sometimes don't see the spiritual battle that is raging. In our culture, the light and darkness can sometimes appear to blend together to produce shades of grey. When that happens, it is harder to see and distinguish the light from the darkness. But what we learn in John 8 is that the dividing line is still there. Discerning right and wrong is still at the center of pursuing truth. Good and evil are no less real today than they were in the first century. The devil is still breathing his lies and spreading unbelief as he was in the hearts of these Pharisees. There are plenty of people today who outright reject Jesus, who reject God the Father, and who live a life opposed to him. They are like the Pharisees, unknowingly driven by the father of lies. The devil is at work all throughout the world, some places more than others. As the Scriptures say, he prowls around like a roaring lion seeking whom he can devour. We need to be aware that there is both God the Father, the father of truth and light and life, who gave his Son; and there is also the father of lies and murder, the devil himself. He hates God and hates the truth and he seeks to undermine Jesus and the Gospel. Now, there is no comparison in who has true authority and who will conquer the other in the end. That is the one true Father, but for now he has given the devil room to lie and deceive the world. 2. The One Greater than Abraham (8:53-59) Ok. That brings us to point #2 - The One Greater than Abraham. In these verses, Jesus makes absolutely clear who he truly is. It's unmistakable. Remember, the Pharisees were the ones who originally brought up Abraham. But then Jesus turned the tables on them. Because the Pharisees rejected him, Jesus made it very clear, as we considered, that they were not true descendants of Abraham. And part of Jesus' argument included his claim that he was the Son of God and that his Father was God the Father. And so, the Pharisees asked him in verse 53, "Are you greater than our father Abraham?" Jesus answered them and he said two things. And speaking of shocking statements, these two statements were scandalous. First, Jesus said to them that "Abraham rejoiced to see my day. He saw it and was glad." That's verse 56. And then second, Jesus said, "before Abraham was, I AM." Let's consider those two statements in order. First, Abraham rejoiced to see Jesus' day. The question is, what was the apostle John referring to? What was that day? Well, that question has been asked for centuries. The general consensus, which I agree with, is the day refers to the day that Isaac was born. You see, as we read earlier in Genesis 15, God promised to give Abraham a son. It seemed impossible, though, especially as Sarah aged, but yet God fulfilled his promise to Abraham. Do you remember what happened when Isaac was born? Abraham and Sarah laughed. It wasn't like the laughter before, when they were questioning God. Rather it was a joyful laughter of amazement. In fact, the name Isaac means "to laugh." The semantic range for the word "laugh" in Hebrew includes a joyous laughter. That's why I think that particular day is the one referred to in verse 56. Abraham saw God fulfill his promise in an amazing way. Abraham then rejoiced when Isaac was born. And he knew, as God had promised, that through Isaac, his offspring would be as numerous as the stars in the sky. He knew, as God also promised, that all the nations of the earth would be blessed through him. You see, the promise that God made to Abraham was the promise of a Messiah. Just like God gave Abraham and Sarah a son according to God's promise, so one of Abraham's descendants would be the promised Messiah. In that sense, Abraham saw Jesus' day and rejoiced. But when Jesus said that, it only further enraged the Pharisees. They said to him, "You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?” Which brings us to the second and even more shocking statement. Verse 58. Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” "I AM." We've come across that statement multiple times now. Earlier in chapter 8, Jesus twice said, "I am he." In the Greek it is simply "I am" - "Ego Eimi." In the Hebrew it is Yahweh. Jesus was saying that as God the Son, he is the eternal God and he has always existed. Before Abraham was, I AM. It was yet another claim of divinity. Jesus was indeed greater than Abraham. Let's take a step back for a moment. You know, every Sunday, I try to connect our sermon text to some of John's overall themes. Really, it's helpful to see how each passage fits within the book as a whole. Well, one thing that God has been revealing in John is all the ways that Jesus has been fulfilling God's promises of old. For example, Jesus has been entering into the major Jewish institutions and he has been revealing that he is their ultimate fulfillment. ·      In chapter 2, Jesus turned water into wine at the wedding, revealing that he is the bridegroom who will cleanse his bride the church. ·      In the same chapter during the Passover, Jesus declared that he was the fulfillment of the temple. Do you remember that? ·      Chapter 5's setting was the Sabbath, another institution. Jesus demonstrated he was Lord of the Sabbath. ·      Chapter 7 and earlier in this chapter, Jesus revealed how he has fulfilled the Feast of Tabernacles as the living water and light of the world. Since most of us don't have a Jewish background, we don't naturally see those connections. But for John's original audience, each example has been expanding their understanding of who Jesus is and making the case that he is the true Messiah. Well, besides institutions, Jesus is also greater than the patriarchs and prophets of old. Back in chapter 6, Jesus revealed that he is the prophet that Moses promised. He revealed that he is greater than Moses. He is the true manna from heaven. Moses was held in great regard, but Jesus, as God the Son, is greater. And when we get to these verses on Abraham, it's similar. Abraham was the preeminent father of the Jewish people. Abraham was the one through whom God promised a people would come, as we already considered. And so, when Jesus said that before Abraham was, I am, it was a remarkable declaration of his preeminence as the God of all creation and over his people. Do you see how all these fulfillments are working together? They all reveal that Jesus is indeed the One in whom life and light is found. It's all an amazing revelation for us to grasp and believe. But, for the Pharisees, again, it was scandalous. Jesus had just declared that the devil, not Abraham, was their father, and now, he claimed that he is greater than Abraham. Look at verse 59. "So they picked up stones to throw at him." Of course, they did. They were enraged and furthermore, in their minds, Jesus had blasphemed God. Their response only confirmed that indeed the devil was their father. They could not stand for truth. They could only do what was in their nature as sons of the devil. They all the more rejected Jesus and sought to kill him. As they went to get stones, Jesus then slipped away into the crowd. As he has said before, it was not yet his time. But Jesus' time would come. You see, Chapter 8 accelerates the path to the cross. The day would soon come when Jesus would bring his fulfillment to completion. And in God's sovereignty, he would use the Pharisees (and others) to accomplish his plan. 3. The Triumph of Abraham's True Descendants (John 8:47, 51) Which brings us to #3. Point 3: The Triumph of Abraham's True Descendants. God's true sons and daughters will "not see death," but live. You know, in the order of the narrative, this point should really be point number 2. The reason that I put it last is because I wanted to end with encouragement. I did not want to end with the devil or the stones that they picked up. Rather, I wanted to end with the blessing of being a true descendant of Abraham. Now, I know that a couple of you here have Jewish roots, but the vast majority of us are Gentiles. We are the nations that have been grafted into Christ. It doesn't matter where you or your family is from, what nationality or ethnicity. It doesn't matter if you have some Jewish heritage or not. No, the only thing that matters is whether you are a true spiritual descendant of Abraham by faith. Look at verse 47. "Whoever is of God hears the words of God." Remember, the question is who their father is. And we learn that those who hear the words of God have God as their father. Those are the ones who are true descendants of Abraham - spiritual descendants by faith. What matters is believing in the Gospel - it is believing in who Jesus is and what he has accomplished. And when you do, then you are a true descendant of Abraham, a spiritual descendant by faith. In Romans 9, it says "It is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as offspring." Galatians 3 uses similar language. It says, "In Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. ...And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise." If that is you, then you can say that Abraham is indeed your spiritual father, through faith… the promise to him of salvation is the promise for you. Let me say one more thing. You know, as we've gone through John's Gospel, we've come across several "truly, truly" statements. Each of those statements emphasizes an important truth. When Jesus uses the phrase "truly, truly", he is saying, "most assuredly I tell you this important truth" and he goes on. Well, in our verses today there are two "truly, truly" statements. One of them we've already considered. "Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am." The other one is in verse 51. Look at it. Jesus said, "Truly, truly, I say to you, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death." Those who truly hear Jesus, and truly believe in him, and demonstrate their faith by abiding in his word, "will never see death." No, the true descendants of Abraham will triumph with Jesus forever. As we've read over and over in John's Gospel, we will receive eternal life in him. You see, in the middle of this chapter of conflict, there is hope. At the very heart of these verses - where the Pharisees are called out as sons of the devil, and by the way, who are also destined to spend eternity apart from God - at the heart of these verses, there is a promise. And the promise is this: Those who believe in Jesus' word will overcome death. They will be with God forever. It is a hope and promise reserved for those truly of God, who are spiritual descendants of Abraham. It's for those who believe in Jesus as the I AM of God, the eternal God of the universe, the Son of God, who is greater than Abraham. So, may we not plug our ears like the Pharisees, but instead hear Jesus' words, for they are words of life. May we also see the reality of the devil… and know that he is the father of lies who sows darkness and opposes the truth of God. BUT, may we know that as true descendants of Abraham, we will be with Jesus forever.

In Romans 5:12-21, we learn that in Christ's death, sin and death are undone.

Throughout Romans, Paul steadily and methodically builds his case: that all are sinners, but salvation is yet possible by the grace of God through faith in Jesus. In Romans 6 and 7, Paul shows how to apply everything he's explained thus far. Join John Bradshaw and discover how you can live out the claims of the gospel in your own life.

It's Thursday, August 6th, A.D. 2026. 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 Algerian, African church going underground The Protestant church in Algeria is going underground.  The Muslim-majority country is located in North Africa. Authorities there have shut down nearly all Evangelical churches over the past decade. Many Christians now meet secretly in homes.  One Algerian pastor told Morning Star News, “The situation is undeniably difficult because we are deprived of fellowship. But God's work must not stop. We desperately lack Bibles and Christian books, as customs officials systematically confiscate them even when friends bring them from the West.” Algeria is ranked 20th on the Open Doors' World Watch List of the worst countries for the persecution of Christians.  British soldiers are asking about Christ Faith is increasing in the British military.  Army chaplains report more recruits are asking about Christianity, attending services, and requesting baptism. Dr. Martin Gliniecki is the executive director of the Soldiers' and Aviators' Scripture Readers Association. He told Christian Today, “We have prayed for revival in our nation for many years now and … revival in our Armed Forces too. Something is happening. While our Armed Forces are the smallest in modern history, the harvest remains plentiful.” In Luke 10:2, Jesus said, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few. Therefore, pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” British millionaire stands up for persecuted street preachers A British millionaire is standing up for persecuted street preachers. Businessman Samuel Leeds has pledged to fund the legal representation of Christian street preachers who are targeted by police.  He told Truth Times, “We see Christians being persecuted all over the world, but seeing it happen in Great Britain — seeing the disdain, the hatred, and now the oppression of Christian voices — really bothers me. … Where Christians are being unfairly targeted simply for preaching their faith, I'm prepared to put my money behind defending them.” Amen! Democrat primary voters elect another leftist The left wing of the Democratic Party continues to win election primaries. Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, whose parents came to America from Egypt, won the Democrat primary for U.S. Senate in Michigan on Tuesday.  The 41-year-old is an epidemiologist who received his Doctor of Medicine from Columbia University, served as director of the Department of Health, Human, and Veterans Services of Wayne County, Michigan, from 2023 to 2025, and was a candidate in the 2018 Michigan gubernatorial election. EL-SAYED: “What a race! You know, in the words of Muhammad Ali, we shook up the world!” Endorsed by socialist Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, among other leftists, he narrowly defeated Congresswoman Haley Stevens, a pro-Israel moderate Democrat. Remarkably, super PACs, political action committees, spent $60 million on the race, supporting Stevens 9-1. El-Sayed champions the abolition of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement known as ICE, ending most U.S. military aid to Israel, and wants a universal, government-funded health insurance program that covers everyone. If you take the time to watch his 19-minute victory speech, which we have linked in our transcript at www.TheWorldview.com, you will notice he is an articulate spokesman for his cause. EL-SAYED: “So, whether you voted for me or voted for my opponent or didn't vote at all, we're inviting you to that movement to get money out of politics, so we can put money back in pockets, and finally guarantee the promise of health care through Medicare for All.” If elected in November, Abdul El-Sayed would be the first Muslim in the Senate.  Democrats are moving left The views of Democrats are shifting further to the left. A new Reuters/Ipsos poll found 71 percent of Democrats label themselves as liberal. That's up from 55 percent in 2012.  Most liberal Democrats identify certain positions as essential to being a liberal. These include increasing taxes on corporations and billionaires, expanding access to abortion, and government provided healthcare coverage.  In Romans 13:4, the Apostle Paul identified different priorities for government: “For [a ruler] is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.” Amazon hits $3 trillion in market value Amazon became the fifth company to reach $3 trillion dollars in market value on Monday.  The tech company saw growth in its cloud-computing services as demand for Artificial Intelligence surges. Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, and Nvidia are the other companies that have reached a market value of $3 trillion dollars in the past.  Doctors successfully operated on baby in the womb And finally, doctors successfully operated on a baby while still in the womb. Baby Theo was diagnosed with a severe intestinal defect in the womb. Indeed, his intestines were completely outside his body.  Such cases can require many surgeries after birth, and babies do not always survive. Parents Maisie Savage and Josh French live in London. They were referred to a clinical trial at Texas Children's Hospital.  At 26 weeks of pregnancy, surgeons conducted the groundbreaking operation. It's the first surgery of its kind in the U.S.  Praise God! Baby Theo was born full-term in February. Josh recently told Good Morning America that Theo is thriving.   Listen. JOSH: “He's doing all the things that a normal, healthy baby should be doing. He's shouting. He's screaming. He blows raspberries. It's just fantastic having him home.” Psalm 127:3 says, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him." Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, August 6th, in the year of our Lord 2026. 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.

Today we read that oft quoted and beautiful chapter 12 of Romans: it is such a contrast to the disharmony we also read today in 2 Samuel and the frictions between individuals in the final years of David's reign. It demonstrates once again that the New Testament provides guidance for individuals and offers principles to personally live by for all those who decide to walk in the footsteps of Christ.There is no such thing, nor ever has been, as a ‘Christian' nation.  Oh yes, nations have seen themselves as such, but what does God see?  We read today Paul's words, “repay no one evil for evil” [v.17] which is the very opposite to what we have read today in Samuel and, come to think of it, to relationships between most nations throughout history.  The United Nations have attempted the impossible in its 78+ year history.“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.  Never be conceited.  Repay no one evil for evil” [v.16,17] As we read such advice there can be a temptation to look at others and think how they fail to do this.  This is unproductive, we must look within our own hearts. Many situations surrounding the life of David illustrate the opposite, but not in David himself.  We must not confuse this with his zeal to serve the Lord.  Those who became enemies of the Lord became David's enemies.  In his relationship with individuals he often displayed mercy and forgiveness.  He appointed Amasa, who had been captain of Absalom's army, as captain of his army, but Amasa came to an unworthy end at the hands of Joab, but we will read soon of Joab's traumatic end. The lesson we perceive as we read the Old Testament is that, as Jesus said, “all who take the sword perish by the sword” [Matt. 26 v.52].  We can trace so many occasions when God sets up evil people to deal with each other.  With those who love the Lord, the opposite occurs.  In Romans we read, “if possible, as far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all … never avenge yourselves …” [v.18] 

In Romans 8, St. Paul tells us that the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead now dwells in us. Stop for a moment; what a wondrous thought and powerful reality. St. Paul goes on to say, therefore, we can either live by the flesh, which produces death in our lives; or, we can live by the Spirit, which bestows life. Today we focus on living by the Spirit of God. What does a life led by the Holy Spirit look like? What are the results of living a life led by the Holy Spirit? These are our thoughts for the day.

Today we read that oft quoted and beautiful chapter 12 of Romans: it is such a contrast to the disharmony we also read today in 2 Samuel and the frictions between individuals in the final years of David's reign. It demonstrates once again that the New Testament provides guidance for individuals and offers principles to personally live by for all those who decide to walk in the footsteps of Christ.There is no such thing, nor ever has been, as a ‘Christian' nation.  Oh yes, nations have seen themselves as such, but what does God see?  We read today Paul's words, “repay no one evil for evil” [v.17] which is the very opposite to what we have read today in Samuel and, come to think of it, to relationships between most nations throughout history.  The United Nations have attempted the impossible in its 78+ year history.“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.  Never be conceited.  Repay no one evil for evil” [v.16,17] As we read such advice there can be a temptation to look at others and think how they fail to do this.  This is unproductive, we must look within our own hearts. Many situations surrounding the life of David illustrate the opposite, but not in David himself.  We must not confuse this with his zeal to serve the Lord.  Those who became enemies of the Lord became David's enemies.  In his relationship with individuals he often displayed mercy and forgiveness.  He appointed Amasa, who had been captain of Absalom's army, as captain of his army, but Amasa came to an unworthy end at the hands of Joab, but we will read soon of Joab's traumatic end. The lesson we perceive as we read the Old Testament is that, as Jesus said, “all who take the sword perish by the sword” [Matt. 26 v.52].  We can trace so many occasions when God sets up evil people to deal with each other.  With those who love the Lord, the opposite occurs.  In Romans we read, “if possible, as far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all … never avenge yourselves …” [v.18] 

Today I want us to look at the last phrase of this verse, "accordingto His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." These few words reveal notonly that God provides for His children, but they tell us how He provides andwhere our provision comes from. Noticefirst that Paul says God supplies "according to His riches,"not merely "out of His riches." There is a tremendous difference. Supposea billionaire handed someone ten dollars. He gave out of his riches, butcertainly not according to his riches. The gift was only a tiny fraction ofwhat he possessed. But if he gave according to his riches, the gift wouldreflect the greatness of his wealth. That is exactly what Paul is saying aboutGod. Our Heavenly Father does not ration His grace. He does not measure Hismercy with a tiny spoon. He supplies according to the infinite abundance of Hisown riches. Howrich is God? He owns everything! Psalm 24:1 reminds us, "The earth isthe LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwelltherein." Haggai 2:8 says, "The silver is mine, and the goldis mine, saith the LORD of hosts." David declared in 1 Chronicles29:11, "Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory,and the victory, and the majesty... all that is in the heaven and in the earthis thine." God never faces a shortage. Heaven never experiencesinflation. The storehouses of His grace are never depleted. YetPaul is speaking about something even greater than material wealth. He says, "accordingto His riches in glory." Throughout Paul's letters, the word"riches" most often refers to the immeasurable wealth of God's grace,mercy, love, wisdom, and power. In Ephesians 1:7, Paul speaks of "theriches of His grace." In Ephesians 2:4, he writes of God being "richin mercy." Just a few verses later, in Ephesians 2:7, he tells usabout "the exceeding riches of His grace." In Romans 11:33, heexclaims, "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledgeof God!" God's greatest riches are not found in streets of gold orgates of pearl. They are found in His glorious character—His grace, His mercy,His love, His faithfulness, His wisdom, and His power. That is the treasurefrom which He supplies His children. ThenPaul tells us that all of this comes "by Christ Jesus." JesusChrist is the channel through whom every blessing flows. Every spiritualblessing we possess comes because of Him. Every answered prayer comes throughHim. Every provision of grace comes through Him. Every promise of God finds itsfulfillment in Him. Without Christ, we would have no access to the Father. Butbecause of Christ, we have been welcomed into God's family and become heirs ofall that belongs to Him. No wonder Paul wrote in Romans 8:32, "He thatspared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not withhim also freely give us all things?" If God has already given us Hisgreatest gift—His own Son—we can trust Him to give us everything else we trulyneed. AsI think back over our recent mission trip to Guatemala, I am reminded againthat this is exactly how God works. He supplied every need according to Hisriches. He provided strength when we were tired, wisdom when decisions had tobe made, protection as we traveled, unity among our team, open doors forministry, and joyful fellowship with believers we had never met before.  Friend,perhaps today you are facing a need that seems overwhelming. It may befinancial. It may be physical. It may be emotional. It may be spiritual. Rememberthis promise. Your need may be great, but God's riches are infinitely greater. TheGod who created the universe, who redeemed you through His Son, and who hasnever broken a promise will supply every need according to His riches in gloryby Christ Jesus. So trust Him today. Rest in His faithfulness. Obey Himwholeheartedly. Serve Him joyfully. Give generously. And leave your needs inthe hands of the One whose resources are limitless. 

Romans 7:1-13 - Speaker: James Lockwood - In our Summer Series called What Matters to God, we've been looking at selected topics and seeing what God thinks. This week, we'll examine why government matters to God. In Romans 13, Paul calls us to submit to governing authorities—not primarily for the government's sake, but because God stands over every human authority. As we study this text, may God help us recognize the importance of government, faithfully live under His sovereign rule, and fix our hope on the day when Christ will reign forever.

Romans 13:1-7 - Speaker: Will Galkin - In our Summer Series called What Matters to God, we've been looking at selected topics and seeing what God thinks. This week, we'll examine why government matters to God. In Romans 13, Paul calls us to submit to governing authorities—not primarily for the government's sake, but because God stands over every human authority. As we study this text, may God help us recognize the importance of government, faithfully live under His sovereign rule, and fix our hope on the day when Christ will reign forever.

In Romans 5:6-11, we learn that God's love is different. He died for sinners, He turned enemies into friends, He will save us from His wrath, so we boast in Him alone.

I'd like to briefly recap the story I told about the young boy who was attacked by an alligator. He had jumped into the swimming hole and as he swam out, an alligator swam toward him. His father was nearby, and he ran to the lake to rescue his son. As he reached from the dock for his son's hands, the alligator grabbed his legs, and a tug of war ensued. But this father was not letting go, and he dug his fingers into the boy's arms to hold him. A farmer driving by heard the screams, ran to the lake and shot the alligator. But of course, the boy's legs were greatly scarred, and he spent days in the hospital recovering. When asked to show the scars on his legs, the boy did so, but then with obvious pride, he said, “But look at my arms. I have great scars on my arms, too. They are there because my Dad wouldn’t let go.” In Romans 8 Paul tells us those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God, and because of that, we can cry, “Abba, Father.” We are permitted to call the God of creation by an intimate term, a family name, if you please—Abba, Father, Papa. He is our heavenly father, and he will never let us go. I think of a friend of mine who never knew her father; he abandoned her before she was born. Others have fathers who simply neglected them, and still others have fathers who abused them. If that is true for you, your concept of a father is likely warped. But let me assure you God is your heavenly Father, and he is perfect. Don't transfer your negative experience with your earthly father to God, because you will then miss the joy of fellowshipping with him as Father, Abba, Papa. I had a wonderful earthly father who never neglected me or mistreated me, but even he could not promise to never leave me. My heavenly Father can say, I will never leave you or forsake you, and I have full assurance he will always be with me. He will not let me go, and the same is true for you, if you are his child. Let me close with these wonderful verses from Romans 8: For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:38-39).

Life often forces us to recalibrate our plans as we face unexpected changes, losses, fears, and unanswered questions. In Romans 15:13, Paul reminds us that Christian hope does not depend on perfect circumstances or on having every answer. It is rooted in the God of hope, who fills us with joy and peace as we trust in him. This message from Pastor Lonnie explores how hope grows when we honestly name our uncertainty, remember God's faithfulness, stay connected to the body of Christ, and take the next faithful step. We may not know what the future holds, but we are not alone in the storm. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, God can give us a hope that not only helps us endure but also overflows into our families, church, community, and world.

In Romans 2:1-16 Paul is “speaking” to an imaginary Jewish scholar who appreciated the indictment against the Gentiles in Romans 1. Religious moralists are indignant at and critical of other people's shortcomings and indulgent of their own, but judging others is evidence that they themselves might be judged. God's judgment is a fact of human existence that must be reckoned with if people want to escape the realm of fantasy and live in the real world. The assumption that “God would never condemn anybody” is so common today that Paul's approach to the subject of divine judgment is largely rejected. Those who reject the concept rarely consider the alternative.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sermons-from-my-heart--2423678/support.

How should Christians respond when they disagree over matters that God has not explicitly addressed?In Romans 14, Paul teaches believers how to navigate differences in personal convictions without allowing those differences to damage fellowship. This passage reminds us that not every disagreement is a matter of salvation, and that our responsibility is to love one another, avoid unnecessary judgment, and pursue peace within God's family. In this sermon, you'll discover: The difference between biblical commands and personal opinions  What Paul means by the "weaker" and "stronger" brother  Why Christians should avoid judging one another over doubtful matters  How love should shape our freedoms and personal convictions  Practical ways to protect unity while honoring God Scripture: Romans 14If this lesson encouraged you, consider liking the video, subscribing to the channel, and sharing it with someone who could benefit from this study of God's Word.Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:40 Romans 14: Welcoming One Another 07:35 What Are "Opinions" or "Doubtful Matters"? 16:35 The Weaker and Stronger Brother 22:55 Who Is the Judge? 30:10 Living for the Lord 34:25 Love Over Rights 41:50 Pursue Peace and Build One Another Up 47:00 Keeping Convictions Before God 50:00 Final Application#BibleStudy #Romans14 #ChristianUnity #Faith #Church #BibleTeaching #Romans #ChristianLiving #LoveOneAnother #Scripture

What shape is the church?Many of us instinctively picture a building, a steeple, or rows of people facing a stage. But the New Testament paints a different picture. In Romans 16, a chapter often treated like the end credits of Paul's letter, we discover that the earliest church gathered around a table. It was a community where people were known by name, welcomed as family, carried one another's burdens, and practiced the way of Jesus together.In this message, we'll explore how Paul's long list of greetings reveals three marks of a healthy church: a community of real people, a community of radical inclusion, and a community committed to practicing the way of Jesus. Along the way, we'll consider why lasting spiritual transformation happens not simply in rows, but in circles - around a table big enough for everyone.Whether you're looking for a church to belong to, reconnecting after a season away, or longing for deeper Christian community, Romans 16 offers a compelling vision of the kind of life Jesus invites us to share together.Scripture: Romans 16

Can you really trust that God is working all things together for your good? Romans 8:28 is one of the most quoted verses in the Bible, but it's also one of the most misunderstood. In Romans 8:26-30, the Apostle Paul reminds us that God's promise isn't that everything that happens to us is good. It's that God is actively working through every joy, every disappointment, every unanswered prayer, and every season of suffering to accomplish our ultimate good: making us more like Christ. Even when you don't know what to pray, the Holy Spirit is praying for you. Even when you can't see what God is doing, he is still at work. And even when life doesn't make sense, you can trust that he will finish what he started. In this message, you'll discover: - What Romans 8:28 actually means in its full context - How the Holy Spirit helps you when you don't know what to pray - What "all things work together for good" really means - Why God can use both suffering and success to accomplish his purposes - How to trust God's heart when you can't see his hand Whether you're walking through suffering, wrestling with unanswered prayers, or wondering if God is really at work, Romans 8 reminds us that nothing in the life of a believer is wasted. God is faithfully working every part of your story toward your ultimate good and his glory.

Why do friendships feel harder than they should? Why can we be surrounded by people and still feel disconnected, unseen, or alone?Real relationships require more than shared interests or convenience. They require commitment, humility, and a foundation that can hold us together when life gets difficult.In Romans 12, Paul describes what genuine love and community look like—not fake connection, but relationships marked by honor, sacrifice, hospitality, and peace. The answer isn't simply trying harder to be a better friend; it starts with Jesus, who paid our greatest debt and calls us to love others from the overflow of His grace.Explore what it means to build meaningful friendships and live in harmony with others.Watch, reflect, and discover how faith changes the way we connect.

In Romans 5:12-21, Paul answers the question, "How can the obedience of one Man justify the multitudes of sinners who place their faith in them?" And his inspired answer was that since the guilt and sin of one man, Adam, was imputed to all his descendants (over whom he is head), then the righteousness of one Man, Christ Jesus, can be imputed to all that come under His headship by faith. The doctrines of original sin, human depravity, and imputation are difficult, but clear in Scripture and clearly foundational to the gospel. And understanding that sinners are condemned as sinners because of the sin of another (Adam) but can be received as righteous because of the works of another (Christ) is key to our gratitude, praise and security in Christ. Intro: Two Covenants and Two Heads (w/Catechism) I. Those in Adam have Adam's Sin Imputed (v12) II. ---That is Unfair! (vv13-14) III. ------That is Grace! (vv15-17) IV. Those in Christ have Christ's Righteousness Imputed (vv18-21)

In Romans 5:3-5, we learn that trials do not derail us, because God is working through them. We can be confident in our trials. God uses our trials for good and the Gospel guarantees God's love for us.

Wednesday July 22, 2026VIII Week After PentecostIn today's episode, we begin the book of Deuteronomy, where Moses reminds Israel of God's faithfulness and calls a new generation to trust and obey the Lord as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. In Romans 9, Paul wrestles with Israel's unbelief while magnifying God's sovereign mercy and His faithful purposes. In Matthew 23, Jesus grieves over Jerusalem, exposing empty religion while expressing His deep desire to gather His people to Himself. Together, these passages remind us that God is both holy and merciful, faithfully accomplishing His purposes while inviting us to respond with humble faith and wholehearted obedience.

Tuesday July 21, 2026VIII Week after Pentecost In today's episode, we see both the justice and the mercy of God on full display. In Numbers 35, God establishes cities of refuge, providing both protection for the innocent and justice for the guilty, pointing us to His holy character and ultimately to Christ, our true refuge. In Romans 8, Paul triumphantly declares that nothing can separate believers from the love of God in Christ Jesus, giving us unshakable confidence in God's saving grace. Finally, in Matthew 23, Jesus pronounces woes on the religious leaders, exposing the danger of outward religion that masks an unchanged heart. Join us as we discover that God calls us to seek genuine holiness, rest securely in His unfailing love, and find our refuge in Christ alone.—This is the unfiltered and unscripted daily podcast of Dr. Terry Rolen. Whether you're a devout Christian seeking spiritual growth or someone curious about the teachings of the Bible, this whimsical podcast offers a dynamic, relatable platform for deepening your faith and understanding.

Monday July 20, 2026VIII Week After Pentecost In today's episode, we explore three passages that call us to wholehearted faith and humble obedience. In Numbers 32, the tribes of Reuben and Gad are challenged to put the needs of God's people ahead of their own comfort, reminding us that following God requires both commitment and courage. In Romans 8, Paul offers incredible hope as the Holy Spirit intercedes for us in our weakness and assures us that God is working all things together for the good of those who love Him. Finally, in Matthew 23, Jesus confronts religious pride and teaches that true greatness is found not in seeking recognition but in serving others with humility. Join us as we discover how God calls us to live with faithfulness, confidence in His purposes, and the heart of a servant.

Every one of us knows things aren't the way they're supposed to be. We see it in a broken world, broken relationships, broken bodies, and the unanswered questions that come when suffering enters our lives. In Romans 8:18-25, the Apostle Paul reminds us that our pain isn't meaningless. Creation is groaning. We are groaning. But our suffering is more like labor pains than a funeral. It's painful, but it's leading somewhere. As followers of Jesus, we don't ignore suffering or pretend it's easy. We endure it with hope, knowing that the glory God has promised far outweighs the pain we're experiencing today. In this message, you'll discover: - Why Christians still suffer even after becoming God's children - What it means that all creation is groaning - Why your pain has a purpose, and a due date - How future glory changes the way you face present suffering - Where lasting hope is found when life doesn't make sense - Whether you're grieving a loss, facing a difficult diagnosis, walking through unanswered prayers, or simply wondering why life hurts, Romans 8 reminds us that this broken world is not the end of the story.

This week the Rev. Sarah Bonay lays out how our natural longing to belong, to be fully known, deeply loved, and secure is dealt with by our heavenly Father. In Romans 8, Paul reveals that our deepest longing is answered by receiving the Spirit of adoption through Jesus Christ.

God's Grace Is Greater Than Our FailureRomans 11:11–12Failure is never the end of the story with God. In Romans 11:11–12, we were reminded that God never wastes a failure. Israel's unbelief opened the door for the Gentiles to hear the gospel, demonstrating that God can accomplish His purposes even through human disobedience—without ever approving of it. God keeps His promises, and He is never finished with those who have rejected Him.As followers of Christ, our lives should reflect the joy, hope, and blessing of knowing Jesus, drawing others to desire Him. Through faith in Christ, we become part of God's covenant family, and we look forward to the day when God's promises are fully fulfilled.The greatest example of God bringing victory from what looked like defeat is the cross. What appeared to be the darkest moment in history became the means of salvation for the world. God's grace truly is greater than our failure.Key Takeaways:God never wastes a failure.God keeps His promises even when people fail.Our lives should point others to Jesus.God's greatest blessings often come through what appears to be defeat.

In Romans 8:31-39, the Apostle Paul powerfully affirms that “If God be for us, who can be against us?”—that with His own Son being delivered up for us all, God will freely give us all things. No one can successfully accuse or condemn believers because God has justified us and Christ sits at the Father's right hand, interceding for us. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ—not tribulation, persecution, principalities, or any other creature. Instead, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us, giving believers unshakable security in Christ. https://bereanbiblesociety.org/tbg-episode/god-is-for-us/ Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/B8g3ocOtGzw Buy episode on DVD: https://store.bereanbiblesociety.org/shop/dvd-transformed-by-grace-single-episode-1-dvd-402-410/?attribute_pa_episode=405-god-is-for-us Buy series on DVD: https://store.bereanbiblesociety.org/shop/dvd-transformed-by-grace-series-comfort-from-above/

Wednesday July 15, 2026VII Week after PentecostToday's episode reveals that God's purposes cannot be overturned, our greatest battle is within, and Jesus alone is the cornerstone of God's kingdom.In Numbers 22:41–23:12, Balaam is taken to curse Israel, but every attempt is transformed into a blessing. Instead of speaking Balak's words, Balaam can only declare what God has spoken. The passage reminds us that no human scheme can reverse God's blessing or frustrate His sovereign plans. When God has determined to bless His people, His purposes will stand.In Romans 7:13–25, Paul gives an honest picture of the believer's struggle with sin. Though he delights in God's law, he finds another battle raging within him. His famous cry, “Who will rescue me from this body of death?” points us to the only answer: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” Victory over sin is not found in greater willpower but in the grace of Christ.Finally, in Matthew 21:33–46, Jesus Christ tells the parable of the wicked tenants, exposing Israel's leaders for rejecting God's messengers and ultimately God's Son. He declares that the rejected stone has become the cornerstone, revealing that God's kingdom is built upon Christ, and those who reject Him reject the very foundation of salvation.Together, these passages remind us that God's plans cannot be defeated, our deepest struggles are overcome only through Christ, and Jesus is the cornerstone upon whom every life must be built.

Tuesday July 14, 2026VII Week after PentecostToday's episode reminds us that God graciously confronts our blind spots, reveals the purpose of His law, and calls us to respond with genuine obedience.In Numbers 22:21–38, Balaam sets out on his journey, but the angel of the Lord stands in his path. Ironically, Balaam—the prophet—cannot see what his donkey clearly sees. After God opens the donkey's mouth and then Balaam's eyes, he realizes that he has been resisting God's direction. The passage reminds us that spiritual blindness often begins with a divided heart, but God, in His mercy, confronts us to redirect us toward His will.In Romans 7:1–12, Paul explains the relationship between believers and the Law. Through our union with Christ, we have died to the Law's condemnation and now belong to Him. The Law itself is holy and good, but it exposes the reality of sin rather than providing the power to overcome it. Only through Christ can we experience true freedom and newness of life.Finally, in Matthew 21:23–32, Jesus Christ confronts the religious leaders who questioned His authority. He responds with the parable of the two sons, teaching that true obedience is measured not by what we say, but by what we do. Those who repent and obey God's will—even after initial resistance—are commended above those whose words are never matched by faithful action.Together, these passages remind us that God lovingly exposes our blind spots, His Word reveals our need for grace, and authentic faith is demonstrated through humble repentance and obedient living.

In this episode I talk with Dr. Jason Staples about his book Paul and the Resurrection of Israel, in which he argues that the resurrection of Israel is a major motif in Paul's thinking. Staples explains how the resurrection of Israel is based on the prophetic hope, rooted in passages like Ezekiel 37, that God would rescue and restore Israel based on His covenantal promises to them. He demonstrates that there is a distinction between “Israel” and “the Jews” in the Bible, and that God's promises to restore all of Israel must go beyond the descendants of the southern kingdom. Ephraim, the northern kingdom, had effectively been dissolved into the nations, and Paul's mission to the Gentiles is a fulfillment of the promise to restore Israel. Staples dives headfirst into Romans 2 and 9-11, showing how in passage after passage Paul believes the restoration is being accomplished through faith in Israel's Messiah Jesus and the gift of the Holy Spirit, which enables those who are a part of Abraham's family to obey God. In Romans 9-11, Paul describes the plight of Israel in great detail, demonstrating through detailed interpretation of key Old Testament passages how the remnant of Israel will in fact be saved on the final day and how the incorporation of Gentiles into God's people through faith and the Spirit is a fulfillment of God's promises. We then finally explore the contemporary application of Staple's insight for modern Christian theology.  Media Referenced:Paul and the Resurrection of Israel: https://a.co/d/00Y25mXYJason Staples Website: https://www.jasonstaples.com/Jason Staples on X: @jasonstaples The Protestant Libertarian Podcast is a project of the Libertarian Christian Institute and a part of the Christians For Liberty Network. The Libertarian Christian Institute can be found at www.libertarianchristians.com.Questions, comments, suggestions? Please reach out to me at theprotestantlibertarian@gmail.com.  You can also follow the podcast on Twitter: @prolibertypod, and YouTube, @ProLibertyPod, where you will get shorts and other exclusive video content. For more about the show, you can go to theprotestantlibertarianpodcast.com. If you like the show and want to support it, you can! Go to libertarianchristians.com, where you can donate to LCI and buy The Protestant Libertarian Podcast Merch! Also, please consider giving me a star rating and leaving me a review, it really helps expand the show's profile! Thanks!

In Romans 11, Paul answers a question that still sparks discussion today: Has God rejected His people, Israel? The answer is a resounding "By no means!" This sermon explores: Why God has always preserved a faithful remnant  What it means to be "chosen by grace"  How Gentile Christians have been grafted into God's family  Why Christians should avoid pride and remember their spiritual heritage  God's continuing desire for both Jews and Gentiles to be saved  The amazing wisdom and mercy of God revealed in His plan of salvation Romans 11 reminds us that salvation has always been by God's grace through faith, never by ancestry or human achievement. As believers, we are called to live in humility, gratitude, and faithful obedience while pointing others to Christ.Key Passages: Romans 11  Romans 9–10  Isaiah 49 & 59  2 Thessalonians 2  Matthew 23  2 Peter 3:9 If this lesson encouraged you, consider liking the video, subscribing to the channel, and sharing it with someone studying the book of Romans.Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:00 Has God Rejected Israel? 06:30 The Faithful Remnant Chosen by Grace 13:30 Salvation Comes to the Gentiles 20:00 The Olive Tree and Being Grafted In 26:00 A Warning Against Spiritual Pride 32:00 God's Desire to Save Everyone 38:00 The Wisdom and Glory of God 42:00 Invitation#Romans11 #BookOfRomans #BibleStudy #ChristianSermon #Grace #Faith #ChurchOfChrist #NewTestament #BibleTeaching #Gospel #JesusChrist #Scripture #ChristianFaith

Monday July 13, 2026VII After PentecostToday's episode challenges us to choose wholehearted obedience, reject the power of sin, and live with authentic faith.In Numbers 22:1–21, King Balak seeks to hire Balaam to curse Israel, but God makes it clear that His people are blessed and cannot be cursed apart from His will. Although Balaam initially hears God's command, his wavering heart reveals the danger of allowing greed and personal ambition to compete with obedience. The passage reminds us that God desires willing hearts that follow Him without compromise.In Romans 6:12–23, Paul calls believers to live in the freedom Christ has won for them. Having been united with Christ, we are no longer slaves to sin but servants of righteousness. Every day presents a choice: to offer ourselves to sin, which leads to death, or to God, which leads to holiness and life. Paul concludes with the familiar truth: “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”Finally, in Matthew 21:12–22, Jesus Christ cleanses the temple, driving out those who had turned a house of prayer into a marketplace. He then curses the barren fig tree, illustrating the danger of outward appearances without genuine spiritual fruit. God desires lives that bear the fruit of true faith, not merely the appearance of religion.Together, these passages remind us that God calls us to wholehearted obedience, freedom from the bondage of sin, and a faith that produces genuine spiritual fruit. As we surrender every part of our lives to Christ, He transforms us from the inside out.

Many people believe God forgives them, yet they still live as though they need to earn his approval. They obey out of fear instead of love and wonder if they'll ever measure up. In Romans 8:12-17, we're reminded that God didn't simply forgive our sins, but he adopted us into his family. When the Holy Spirit changes your identity, everything else begins to change. You can fight sin from a place of security instead of shame, follow God as a beloved child instead of a fearful servant, and face suffering with the confidence that your Father is with you. In this message, you'll discover: - What it really means to be adopted into God's family - Why many Christians still live with fear and insecurity - How the Holy Spirit helps us put sin to death - The difference between being driven and being Spirit-led - How knowing you're God's child changes the way you live Whether you're struggling with sin, battling anxiety, or wondering where your identity is found, Romans 8 offers a hope that changes everything.

When life is hard, where do you find hope?In Romans 8:18–30, Pastor Epi Garcia reminds us that our present suffering is not the end of the story. While we live in a broken world filled with pain, disappointment, and uncertainty, God is still at work. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we have the promise of His presence today and the certainty of future glory with Christ.This message explores how creation groans, believers groan, and even the Holy Spirit intercedes for us as we wait for the day when God makes all things new. You'll also discover the true meaning of Romans 8:28 and how God works through every circumstance—not necessarily to make life easier, but to make us more like Jesus.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23 NLT) Our nation was founded on Christian principles but has turned its back on many of them. In his 1796 Farewell Address, President George Washington said, “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.” The good news is that God loves to give second chances. The psalmist wrote, “He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve” (Psalm 103:10 NLT). Those who repent receive God’s mercy and forgiveness. We see His mercy and forgiveness at work in His dealings with the city of Nineveh. Yet if the people of Nineveh had rejected Jonah’s message, the consequences would have been dire. The very existence of Nineveh hung in the balance. Our country will find itself in the same precarious position if we continue to reject God and His Word. Job wrote, “You have decided the length of our lives. You know how many months we will live, and we are not given a minute longer” (Job 14:5 NLT). That applies to nations as well. So as the salt and light of our nation, believers must develop a sense of urgency about igniting the flames of revival in this country. Every nation’s days are numbered. Every great empire in history has had a beginning, a middle, and an end. The same will hold true for the United States of America, according to God’s timing. So, here’s what we’re praying for: one more great spiritual awakening—or maybe two or three. That’s up to the Lord. But our job, our mission, is like Jonah’s. We are to proclaim the Good News and tell people that there’s a God who loves them. Ours is a message of mercy but also a message of judgment for those who reject that mercy. In John 3:16, Jesus said, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son” (NLT). That’s a message of mercy. But then He said, “so that everyone who believes in him will not perish” (NLT). That’s a message of judgment. In Romans 6:23, Paul wrote, “For the wages of sin is death” (NLT). That’s a message of judgment. But then he wrote, “But the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord” (NLT). That’s a message of mercy. Those two themes must be present in our gospel message. They are the twin pillars of revival. Reflection question: In your circle of acquaintances, who needs to hear that God offers second chances? Experience the Harvest Crusade on July 11 when you watch online! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday July 8, 2026VI Week after PentecostToday's episode reminds us that God's grace is greater than our failures, His promises are received by faith, and His kingdom operates by grace rather than human merit. In Numbers 16:36–50, the aftermath of Korah's rebellion reveals both God's holiness and His mercy. Although judgment has fallen, the people continue to grumble, bringing another outbreak of judgment upon the congregation. Yet Moses instructs Aaron to take incense and stand between the living and the dead, making atonement for the people. Aaron's act of intercession foreshadows the greater work of Christ, who stands in the gap for us and offers reconciliation with God.In Romans 4:13–25, Paul explains that God's promise to Abraham was never based on the law but on faith. Abraham believed God even when the fulfillment of His promise seemed impossible, and his faith was credited to him as righteousness. That same promise extends to all who believe in Jesus, who was delivered over for our sins and raised for our justification.Finally, in Matthew 20:1–16, Jesus Christ tells the parable of the workers in the vineyard. Those hired late in the day receive the same wage as those who labored from the beginning, illustrating that God's kingdom is built on grace, not human calculation. Salvation is God's generous gift, and His blessings are distributed according to His goodness, not our perceived deserving.Together, these passages remind us that we are saved by God's grace from beginning to end. Christ is our perfect intercessor, God's promises are secured through faith, and His kingdom invites us to rejoice in His generosity rather than compare ourselves to others.

Tuesday July 7, 2026VI Week after PentecostToday's episode highlights the contrast between self-reliance and saving faith, reminding us that God's grace is received through humble trust, not human achievement. In Numbers 16:20–35, the rebellion of Korah reaches its tragic conclusion. Despite Moses' repeated warnings, Korah and those who joined him refuse to repent, and God's judgment falls upon them. The passage is a sobering reminder that pride and rebellion against God's authority carry serious consequences, while humility and obedience lead to life.In Romans 4:1–12, Paul points to Abraham as the great example of justification by faith. Long before the law was given or circumcision was instituted, Abraham was declared righteous because he believed God. Salvation has always been by grace through faith, not by religious rituals or human effort. Our standing before God rests entirely on His promise and our trust in Him.Finally, in Matthew 19:23–30, Jesus Christ teaches how difficult it is for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of heaven—not because wealth is inherently sinful, but because it can so easily become a substitute for dependence on God. Yet Jesus offers hope with these powerful words: “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” He also promises that those who sacrifice for His sake will receive an eternal reward far greater than anything they leave behind.Together, these passages remind us that pride leads to destruction, faith is the only path to righteousness, and the kingdom of God belongs to those who trust Him completely rather than relying on their own status, possessions, or accomplishments.

In Romans 12, we see that the victory Jesus has won is not the finish line, but the starting line. God has given each of us gifts to use for His glory, and when we live as living sacrifices, the church becomes a body filled with purpose, joy, and love.