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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.
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 5:1-2, we learn that the Gospel is good news because it brings good results and because of the Gospel, we rejoice in the hope of God's glory.
We all want to change for the better, but lasting transformation rarely happens overnight. Life has a way of testing our patience, our attitudes, and our faith. The good news is that God isn't asking you to become a different person on your own. He invites you to let Him transform you from the inside out, one day at a time.In Romans 12:2, we're reminded that real hope begins when we stop copying the patterns of the world and allow God to change the way we think. As we spend time in His presence through prayer, His Word, and worship, He slowly shapes us into people who respond with love, peace, and faith instead of fear, frustration, and anxiety.Your circumstances may not change as quickly as you'd like, but God is changing you to handle them with greater strength and confidence. Leave the past behind, focus on today, and ask God for His perspective. As you draw closer to Him, you'll discover that hope doesn't depend on perfect circumstances. It rises because God is faithfully at work in your life.Subscribe to Our Channel! New to LifeRock? Click here: liferockchurch.org/get-connectedTo support this ministry and help us reach people in our community. Click here: liferockchurch.org/giveDo you need someone to pray for you? We will pray for you. Click here: liferockchurch.org/online-prayerFollow: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LifeRockColumbiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/LifeRockChurchX: https://www.x.com/LifeRockChurch
Audio from a message given at First Congregational Church UCC - Loveland, CO - July 19, 2026.Fear often traps us in unhealthy coping patterns that once protected us but now control us. In Romans 8, Paul reminds us that through Christ we are no longer slaves to fear but beloved children of God. The Holy Spirit continually assures us that we are not alone, deeply loved, and already at home with God. Real freedom begins not when we fix ourselves, but when we trust that God has been with us all along.
How can the church recognize dangerous teaching without becoming fearful or harsh? In Romans 16:17, Paul calls believers to remain watchful, grounded in truth, and prepared to protect the unity and spiritual health of the church. this message offers a practical and biblical guide for seeing the danger, identifying divisive teachers, and responding with wisdom and conviction.
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!
You're Not Falling Apart—You're Becoming Today, I felt led to start with this poem I read the other day because it beautifully demonstrates that we don't always understand what God is doing. We think we are a mess, we feel like we are falling apart, we feel like God has abandoned us, and yet God is ALWAYS right there in the middle of it all! He knows exactly what He is doing and wants us to trust Him in the process. This poem gives us some insight into that process. I feel it makes it a little easier to trust when we have a bit of understanding. This conversation is between someone and God. Me: Hey God. God: Hello..... Me: I'm falling apart. Can you put me back together? God: I would rather not. Me: Why? God: Because you aren't a puzzle. Me: What about all of the pieces of my life that are falling down onto the ground? God: Let them stay there for a while. They fell off for a reason. Take some time and decide if you need any of those pieces back. Me: You don't understand! I'm breaking down! God: No - you don't understand. You are breaking through. What you are feeling are just growing pains. You are shedding the things and the people in your life that are holding you back. You aren't falling apart. You are falling into place. Relax. Take some deep breaths and allow those things you don't need anymore to fall off of you. Quit holding onto the pieces that don't fit you anymore. Let them fall off. Let them go. Me: Once I start doing that, what will be left of me? God: Only the very best pieces of you. Me: I'm scared of changing. God: I keep telling you - YOU AREN'T CHANGING!! YOU ARE BECOMING! Me: Becoming who? God: Becoming who I created you to be! A person of light and love and charity and hope and courage and joy and mercy and grace and compassion. I made you for more than the shallow pieces you have decided to adorn yourself with that you cling to with such greed and fear. Let those things fall off of you. I love you! Don't change! ... Become! Become! Become who I made you to be. I'm going to keep telling you this until you remember it. Me: There goes another piece. God: Yep. Let it be. Me: So ... I'm not broken? God: Of course Not! - but you are breaking like the dawn. It's a new day. Become!!! ~Author John Roedel I know many of you are struggling right now. Whether it is with health issues, money issues, or in the process of losing old friends and making new friends, I think this poem shows us that God can use these hard times to help us step into the person we are meant to be. The person He knows we are capable of being. There are several things I love about this poem. The first is the gentleness of God. He is so good. I think this poem demonstrates the love that God has for us. He didn't say no when she asked if God would put her back together. He said He would rather not. He then went on to explain why He felt that way. Notice how He didn't get short with her. He didn't seem irritated or annoyed with her. We often imagine God feels that way about us. We tell ourselves that He is tired of us coming and asking the same thing. We imagine He wondering why we can't seem to get it together already. If we are honest, we have felt that way about our loved ones before. God is not us. He doesn't have to wonder why we can't get it together. He knows. He made us. He knows everything we have ever done and everything we will ever do. I also love that God doesn't tell her never again to pick up the pieces that fell off. He tells her to take some time and decide whether she needs them. Maybe you are going through this shedding process right now. Maybe you are losing friends, workers, loved ones, or even material things. God isn't telling you that they are gone forever. He is saying take some time and see if you need them. Do they bring joy into your life? Do they make you a better person? Do they help you grow closer to the Lord? Are they helping you on your journey to heaven? If the answer to some of these questions are yes, maybe you can pick them back up again. Take the time to ask questions. Pay attention to the answers. Don't pick them back up again because it is hard without them. Don't pick them up again because it is easier with them or you miss them. It is normal to want to. When you are tempted to pick back up the ones that are not good for you, remember what the poem said, “What you are feeling are just growing pains. You are shedding the things and the people in your life that are holding you back. You aren't falling apart. You are falling into place. Relax. Take some deep breaths and allow those things you don't need anymore to fall off of you. Quit holding onto the pieces that don't fit you anymore. Let them fall off. Let them go. The last part that I want to draw your attention to is what the poem says about changing. Listen to that part again. “Me: Once I start doing that, what will be left of me? God: Only the very best pieces of you. Me: I'm scared of changing. God: I keep telling you - YOU AREN'T CHANGING!! YOU ARE BECOMING! Me: Becoming who? God: Becoming who I created you to be! A person of light and love and charity and hope and courage and joy and mercy and grace and compassion. I made you for more than the shallow pieces you have decided to adorn yourself with that you cling to with such greed and fear. Let those things fall off of you. I love you! Don't change! ... Become! Become! Become who I made you to be. I'm going to keep telling you this until you remember it.” Isn't that just like God? He keeps telling us something until we believe Him. And for most of us, He has to tell us a lot. God is telling you, yes you, right now that He is with you in this. He tells you that He sees you, not for who you think you are, but who you really are. He sees the you that He created you to be even if you aren't there yet. He knows your journey and isn't frustrated that you aren't there yet because He knows exactly when you will arrive there. He knows exactly what obstacles you are struggling with. We actually had a word or prophecy at my Thursday morning prayer group in June 2024. God assured us, “I am there among your trials and your joys. I am the God who loves you, who cares. I am never displeased or impatient with you. I place my hope in you.” This message is not just for my prayer group. This is a message for all of His children. This is something I believe he really wants us to know. We get impatient with our children. We get disappointed with them. God is telling us He is not like that. He knows our innermost thoughts. He knows everything we are going through. He knows our hearts. He knows how badly we want to do the right thing, and yet we tend to do the wrong thing. This is not unique to you. That is all of us. If Paul, who is credited with writing about half of the New Testament books, can admit to this, we can be sure we all struggle with this problem. In Romans 7:19-20, Paul said, “For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I do. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I that do it, but sin which dwells within me.” God knows we are broken. He knows we struggle. He doesn't get disappointed. Instead, He celebrates every time we don't give in to temptation. Every time we mess up, we can bring that to God with the assurance that He welcomes us with open arms and celebrates because we came home instead of being upset that we messed up. Dear Heavenly Father, we ask you to bless everyone listening to this episode. Dad, we thank you so much for loving us so much, for always being there for us, for helping us become who you created us to be, for your patience with us as we become that person, and for forgiving us again and again. You are so wonderful. You are our perfect father, and we are so grateful for all you do for us! Dad, could you give us the strength not to pick up those pieces that have fallen that we don't need? It is hard to leave them there when our life seemed easier with them. Give us the strength to keep moving forward without them. Dad, could you also fill us up to the tippy top with hope that things will be ok because it doesn't always feel like it will be. Help us to feel you right because of us. Maybe hold our hands as we walk side by side. That way, we know you are there. We love you, Dad, and we ask all of this in Jesus's mighty name. Amen!! Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. If this podcast has blessed you in some way, would you consider sending it to others? Also, check out the link below for my mentoring group. I would love to see your face on Zoom this evening. There is no commitment. You can try it out for a month, and if you decide it is not for you, you can simply cancel. I look forward to meeting you here again tomorrow. Remember, Jesus loves you just as you are, and so do I! Have a blessed weekend! Today's Word from the Lord was received in November 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have any questions about the prayer group, these words, or how to join us for a meeting, please email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is, “My children, I draw you into the blazing heart of my love. All of you. You are connected to those who have gone before you through the gate of death. You are connected to your ancestors. You are connected to your loved ones. You are connected to your enemies. For if you are aware of your chosenness, then when you look at each other, see the chosenness in them also. You are one in me.” www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace
Join us as Kevin Jamison continues our sermon series, Life Together: A Study in Romans 12-16, by exploring God's vision for his people and what it truly means to be the church.In Romans 14, Paul teaches that the gospel frees Christians to receive God's good creation with gratitude rather than fear, while recognizing that matters of personal conscience should not be turned into universal rules for all believers. True Christian freedom is expressed not by insisting on our rights, but by willingly limiting them in love so that we build up others, reflecting the self-giving example of Jesus Christ.Scripture: Romans 14:13-23Pastor: Kevin Jamison
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.
In Romans 4:13-25, we learn that God's promise is not based on law. Salvation is by faith alone because it rests on God who promises the impossible and our assurance of salvation is based on Jesus' death and resurrection.
Faith or works? Promise or law? In Romans 4:13–15, Paul explains that God's promises are never earned through law-keeping—they are received by faith. Looking to Abraham as the great example of faith, this sermon shows that God did not make Abraham an heir because of his obedience, but because he believed God's promise. What happens if we try to earn God's favor? Paul gives a sobering answer: if the inheritance comes by the law, then faith is emptied of its meaning, and the promise is made void. The law exposes sin and brings wrath, but it cannot produce the righteousness that God requires. Instead, God freely gives His promises through faith in Jesus Christ. The inheritance of the kingdom, forgiveness of sins, and peace with God are gifts of grace—not wages earned by our performance. If you've ever struggled with assurance, felt like you weren't "good enough," or wondered how you could ever stand before a holy God, this passage points away from yourself and toward the finished work of Christ.
What is the church? Is it a building, a weekly service, or something greater?In Romans 16, the Apostle Paul closes his greatest theological letter with what many people skip—a long list of names. But these names reveal something extraordinary. They show us what the gospel of Jesus Christ produces: a beautiful and diverse family of redeemed people united by grace, serving together for the glory of God.This sermon explores how Jesus gathers people from every background into one spiritual family, why every believer has a meaningful role in the local church, and what it looks like to protect the unity Christ died to create. Along the way, you'll discover the significance of Phoebe's faithful ministry, the beauty of ordinary obedience, the power of gospel generosity, and the biblical call to develop spiritual discernment in an age of deception.Whether you're new to Jesus, looking for a church home, or seeking to grow as a disciple of Jesus, Romans 16 offers a compelling picture of the kind of family only the gospel can create.In this sermon, you'll learn:· Why the church is God's redeemed family—not merely a building, denomination, or weekly worship service.· How the gospel unites men and women, Jews and Gentiles, rich and poor, into one family through Jesus Christ.· What Phoebe's example teaches about Christian service, generosity, and partnering in gospel ministry.· Why God delights in ordinary faithfulness and how your quiet obedience matters in His kingdom.· How to recognize division, grow in biblical discernment, and protect the unity of the local church.Support our mission and learn more atwww.alloflife.churchGive to the work of the gospel herewww.alloflife.churchcenter.com/giving
“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.
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 … Continue reading →
Love isn't just a feeling—it's a decision rooted in the example of Jesus Christ. In this powerful Bible message, discover the difference between human love and God's agape love. Through John 13:15, Jesus calls His followers to do as He has done, serving others with humility and grace. In Romans 13:8, we're reminded that the only lasting debt we owe is to love one another. This message explores: What agape love really means Why Jesus washed Judas' feet Loving people who hurt you Forgiveness, sacrifice, and servant leadership Strengthening marriages and relationships through biblical love Following Christ's example in everyday life Key Bible Verses: John 13:15 Romans 13:8 John 3:16 1 John 3:18 John 13:34-35 Matthew 5:44 Luke 6:27-36 Ephesians 5:25 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Proverbs 31:10 If this message encouraged you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share so more people can discover the life-changing love of Jesus. #LoveLikeJesus #AgapeLove #BibleSermon #ChristianLiving #John13 #Romans13 #Faith #JesusChrist #BiblicalTruth #Forgiveness
Sermon by Fr. Bob Fabey6th Sunday of Ordinary Time"Hope is what you are chained to. Hope is what confines you. Hope is what keeps you from being free to worry and despair. Hope is the shackle on your ankle and around your wrist. What a beautiful prison…"Discussion Questions:How is what was happening in 1876 similar to what is happening today? Expeditions, the Telephone, Steam engines, wars, Disputed presidential elections, the MLB…How is the Jewish experience of promise and fulfillment similar to ours?How are we like Lady Liberty? (Chains and Torch)Do you agree with Vaclav Havel's quote - "Hope is definitely not the same thing as optimism. It is not the conviction that something will turn out well, but the certainty that something makes sense, regardless of how it turns out."In Romans 5, Paul makes the case for how we are to view our lives based on what God has done… “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we[a] have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith[b] into this grace in which we stand, and we[c] rejoice[d] in hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”How have you experienced this to be true?What is one way you can live as a “prisoner of Hope”?“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” For hope to exist, there has to be darkness. For hope to be real, there has to be a prison. And we, in the prison.”-Desmond Tutu
In Romans 4:1-12, we learn that Christ's righteousness is our righteousness.
Presented by Lauren Stigben As a culture we are so consumed with what is in front of us. Typically, we don't “feel” an injustice or the brokenness in this world until it really hits home. Our concerns are focused on the here and now, the me and not the us. Let's reflect. I live in a nice suburb of a large city. My grass is green, and my neighbors are friendly. I live on a street that has no outlet, meaning if you don't need to be on it to come home, visit someone, or deliver a package, you would have no reason to be here. Safe. I am not thinking about theft and brokenness here very much. Last week, our neighbor rang the bell distraught. In broad daylight, someone parked in front of his driveway and stole his children's play climber from just outside his open garage. He was seeking any camera footage. Just like that, my mind wondered who would do such a thing?! I thought about safety in my neighborhood. I lamented the brokenness of a woman in a nice white SUV stealing a plastic play climber. And while my insular suburban bubble was broken, I only thought of that: my bubble, me, and my neighbor. Let's shift to work. Reflect on this, how much do you think about unemployment or underemployment? How much are you thinking about jobless rates or layoffs? How much are you thinking about injustices at work like hiring discrimination or harassment? How much are you thinking about building relationships with younger generational workers to mentor them? Are you thinking about your supply chain? Is your workplace honorable to God? Unless you are experiencing these things or you are working very specifically in a field that addresses these issues, my guess is you are not thinking about them much at all. They may never cross your mind, or perhaps you simply make a nice donation to a charity that works for a cause. The list of brokenness spans much greater than my mentions here. As a reminder, this all started with Adam and Eve. Perfection turned to multiplied pain, dissonant desires between men and women, pain, and sweat. It moved to jealousy and murder with Cain and Abel, and on it multiplied. Adam and Eve were created in God's image, and so are we. And this sin caused our God to lament! God saw violence and corruption that really grieved God. And the Lord regretted that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart (Genesis 6:6). We are made in his image, and if lament is modeled by God himself, this should be a strong indication that this is his plan for us too. We need to care about the things God cares about and this extends beyond our immediate needs. He calls us to see things like Jesus did, through a lens of loving him and loving our neighbors. As I have shared before, this extends into our workplace. As ambassadors for Jesus at work, lament is one way we can shine the light of Christ in dark times. The simple act of engaging in and acknowledging brokenness can open the door for you to share how your lament is brought to God because you trust him even when things seem like they cannot get any worse or better. This takes both a level of micro and macro engagement and very good listening. At a micro level, perhaps you learn someone is dealing with a significant challenge in your workplace. I mean, let's face it, life is lifey! Issues can range from death of a loved one, health, marriage, prodigal children, caring for an elderly parent, and many more! Or it could be an issue of someone not feeling like they fit in at the office. Perhaps you know someone who has been out of work for a longer period. Jesus was our best model of the micro level lament for others. He saw each individual in their need. Think about the compassion he showed the woman who was so desperate in her illness that she crawled through crowds in the dirt just to touch the fringe of Jesus' garment. He stopped as he was on his way to be part of someone else's lament over a sick and dying young girl. Clearly the woman believed Jesus could heal her, but think of the years before that moment. The lament she must have cried with in her personal pain and loneliness. He met the grief and lament of his dear friends Mary and Martha when their brother and Jesus' friend Lazarus passed away. In John 11:35 we read, Jesus wept. In Romans 12:15 we are told to weep with those who weep. Sometimes we are called to lament over the sin of another person. We cannot change them, but we can cry out to God about their brokenness and trust that can redeem anything. Jesus lamented over the heart of the rich young man who was unwilling to give up his possessions to follow him. In Mark 10:21, we read Jesus looked at him and loved him. Sometimes when we see people who are stuck in patterns of sin, believers or not, it is fitting to cry out to the Lord. God, how long will so and so keep on in their sin? God, when will you call so and so to follow you? Ultimately, we need to trust God to move in a sinner's heart. What about macro engagement? In this sense I am talking more about issues facing groups of people. Perhaps it is a large issue at your workplace like fear of a layoff that is buzzing around the proverbial water cooler. But, more often, we are engaging in conversations that shape our local, national, and global communities. All this can be polarizing and choosing what to lament is simply impossible sometimes because there is so much brokenness to choose from! David's lament to God about the wicked in Psalm 10 is fitting even today. Some selected verses from this Psalm read: “Why, O' Lord do you stand far away? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? In arrogance the wicked hotly pursue the poor; let them be caught in the schemes that they have devised. For the wicked boasts of the desires of his soul and the one greedy for gain curses and renounces the Lord. In the pride of his face the wicked does not seek him, all his thoughts are “There is no God.” (Psalm 10:1-4). His mouth is filled with cursing and deceit and oppression; under his tongue are mischief and iniquity. He sits in ambush in the villages; in hiding places he murders the innocent (Psalm 10:7-8). The Psalm is further filled with words like helpless, crushed, forgotten. I encourage you to read Psalm 10 in its entirety. Jesus even lamented over the people in his day in Matthew 17:17. O faithless and twisted generation, how long am I to be with you? How long must I put up with you… (Matthew 17:17). Nothing is new. How long will we be dealing with the evil in this world Jesus promises us in John 16:33? The short and disconcerting answer is until Jesus returns. In the meantime, how can we share grief together over some of these heavy broken issues? How you express your deep concern and grief about these macro issues can shape how people view you at work. Do you engage in the latest rhetoric on the news, or do you point out the root causes of the issue at hand, and explain that you pray for these things? Do you perhaps suggest action? For example, if your community deals with homelessness and food insecurity, are you talking about it or taking action to help your colleagues be part of the solution. Perhaps you suggest serving at a local shelter or doing a food drive. Taking action can be one of the most loving things you can do! One of our prayer leaders here at The Christian Working Woman takes time each month to pour into a community of elderly who don't have a lot of resources. They deal with loneliness and other insecurities. Just the time she spends brings them hope and love that many don't have from family. This is also something she can share with her colleagues! What about when you simply don't have the words or actions? Some of the challenges today are way too big for us and we may not know what to say, let alone what to pray or do! Take heart. Romans 8:26 reminds us, In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans (Romans 8:26). We can feel this heaviness in our body—a tightness in our chest, shoulders, and headaches. It can even be so heavy the injustice makes us angry. These feelings rise up that you may want to call righteous anger. Remember, only God can judge and provide ultimate justice! We simply are not made as superheroes, and try as we may, we can't separate from the feelings we have to address something in a loving and Christ honoring way. Sometimes lament can be fiery—a direct complaint to God. He wants to hear this too! We simply may not understand why God isn't moving like Habakkuk. In Habakkuk1:1-4 we hear the prophet lament, O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you, “Violence” and you will not save? Why do you make me see iniquity, and why do you idly look at wrong? Destruction and violence before me; strife and contention arise. So, the law is paralyzed and justice never goes forth. For the wicked surround the righteous; so, justice goes forth perverted (Habakkuk1:1-4). In both the micro and macro situations we face at work each day, we need to humbly seek God and know he will work all things for our good and for his glory in due time. Lament allows us to unburden our hearts to God and remember we are from God and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one (1 John 5:19). Our hope needs to be set to eternity when Jesus returns to restore his Kingdom! He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away (Revelations 21:4). Until this glorious day, we can lean into lament but also trust God to move in his ways, all the while praising him for his goodness! These are practical, God-given actions that have been given to us. What does practical lament look like? Start with the Psalms. I have talked about some of them today, but others to reference are Psalms 44, 60, 123, 79, and 94. Of course, this is not exhaustive. These are some of my favorites. Read these out loud. Put them into your own circumstances or words. Some even suggest writing your own lament. Take out a pen and paper. Write what you are feeling to cry out to the Lord. Next, express your trust in the Lord. Like David, can you say, “The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?” God is bigger than anything you are lamenting about. God, I trust you! And finally, praise God for his goodness! When things are heavy, I love writing down all the ways God has provided for me. God, I praise you! I hope this can be a reminder that we can lament about the small and big stuff. God is in it all, and he wants to hear from you!
How do you know God accepts you?Many people spend their lives trying to earn God's approval through good works, religious activity, church attendance, or personal effort. But is that how a person is made right with God?In Romans 4, the Apostle Paul uses the example of Abraham to reveal a powerful truth: salvation has never been earned by works—it has always been received through faith. Long before the Law was given, Abraham was declared righteous because he believed God.In this Bible study, you'll discover:• Why Abraham is the greatest example of saving faith• The difference between faith and works• Whether good works can save you• What it means to be justified by faith• How God's promises are received• Why religion can never replace a relationship with God• How to know you are accepted by GodWhether you're a longtime Christian, new to faith, or simply searching for answers about salvation, grace, and God's acceptance, Romans 4 provides life-changing truth that points directly to Jesus Christ.
Join us as Kevin Jamison continues our sermon series, Life Together: A Study in Romans 12-16, by exploring God's vision for his people and what it truly means to be the church.In Romans 13:11-14, Paul calls the church to live with a clear awareness of where we are in God's redemptive story: though we still live in the darkness of the present age, Christ's promised return is certain, giving us hope that reshapes how we live today. Because we belong to the coming day, we are urged us to cast off the patterns of the old age and increasingly "clothe ourselves with Christ," embodying His character together as a community marked by love, mercy, holiness, and hope.Scripture: Romans 13:11-14Pastor: Kevin Jamison
In Romans 11, Pastor Brady Randall unpacks the controversial mystery of Israel's hardening and God's irrevocable mercy, showing that every act of grace—then and now—is undeserved. Whether you've wandered far or feel secure, this message invites you into the humility and awe that come from trusting a God whose ways are higher than ours.Message Blog Post and Transcript - https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/blog-post/2026/6/29/experience-of-grace-11-worship-and-adorationSubscribe to Orchard Hill Plus! - https://orchardhillplus.buzzsprout.com/shareConnect with Orchard Hill ChurchWebsite | https://www.orchardhillchurch.comMobile App | https://https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/appYouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/OrchardHillChurchPAFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/orchardhillchurch/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/orchardhillchurch/Twitter | https://twitter.com/orchard_hill
How does the risen Jesus continue His work in the world? In Romans 15:14–33, Paul pulls back the curtain on the ordinary means Christ uses to advance His extraordinary mission. Discover how Jesus works through everyday disciples, healthy churches, joyful generosity, and persistent prayer to spread the gospel and build His Church.Five Things You'll Learn:1. Why Jesus delights to accomplish His mission through ordinary, everyday disciples.2. What healthy churches do to help advance the gospel beyond themselves.3. How joyful generosity becomes an act of worship that fuels gospel ministry.4. Why prayer is front-line participation in Christ's mission—not a last resort.5. How your everyday faithfulness can have an eternal impact far beyond what you'll ever see.Support our mission and learn more atwww.alloflife.churchGive to the work of the gospel herewww.alloflife.churchcenter.com/giving
After explaining the Gospel in Romans 1-5, Paul turns to dealing with distortions of its message. In Romans 6, he defended God's grace. Now in Romans 7, he defends God's Law. Paul knew that his statements about the Law in Romans may lead critics to suggest he thought the Law was bad. Yet he shouts in Romans 7:12, the Law is good! God's Law serves His purposes by exposing sin, yet sin seeks to seize this good Law and use it to kill us. Paul's argument that the Law is good, but the Gospel is better, will reach a crescendo in Romans 8:3-4– “For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.” Take-Home Message: God's good Law exposes sin, but only His Gospel can defeat it.In Defense of the Law:The Law is not sinful; it exposes sin (7).The Law is not sinful; it is seized by sin (7b-8)The Law is not sinful; it is sin that kills me (9-13).Take-Home Lessons:God's Law is good.Sin can use good things for bad purposes.Sin kills me by lying to me.How does sin use the Law to lie to me?The lie of self-righteousness– I can keep the Law well enough to save myself.The lie of self-indulgence– I cannot keep the Law well enough to save myself, so I might as well get all the fleeting pleasure out of life that I can.The Gospel defeats sin where the Law could not.
Have you ever found yourself doing the very thing you promised you'd never do again? In Romans 7, the apostle Paul pulls back the curtain on his own battle with sin and reminds us that even mature believers wrestle with the flesh.In this message, we discover that the presence of the struggle is not the absence of salvation. The Christian life isn't about pretending the battle doesn't exist—it's about learning where to take it. Through Jesus, we're invited to stop relying on our own strength and instead depend on the grace that saves, sustains, and transforms us.If you're tired of failing, wondering if God is disappointed in you, or questioning your faith because of your ongoing struggles, this message is for you. The war is real—but so is the victory we have in Christ.
In Romans 9, Paul addresses one of faith’s most difficult questions: Can God be trusted when His plan doesn’t match our expectations? Through the stories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Esau, Matt shows how God’s purposes have always moved forward through divine initiative rather than human assumptions. This message explores the difference between a predictable God and a trustworthy one, reminding us that God’s faithfulness isn’t measured by whether He follows our preferred script but by whether He keeps His promises. Whether you’re wrestling with unanswered prayers or watching loved ones make heartbreaking choices, this teaching offers hope grounded in God’s proven character throughout Scripture.
Have you ever found yourself doing the very thing you don't want to do? You're not alone.In Romans 7:14–25, the Apostle Paul opens up about a struggle every believer faces—the battle between our desire to follow God and the reality of our sinful nature. Even after years of following Jesus, Paul admits that the struggle with sin is real. Yet his honesty points us to a powerful truth: our hope is not found in our own strength, but in the grace of Jesus Christ.In this message, Pastor Epi Garcia explores how salvation happens in a moment, but sanctification takes a lifetime. You'll discover why the struggle with sin isn't evidence that God has abandoned you—it may actually be evidence that God is actively working in your life.Whether you're battling temptation, feeling discouraged in your faith, or wondering why following Jesus can feel so difficult at times, this message offers hope, encouragement, and a reminder that victory is found in Christ.
A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small package.In Romans 15:1–13, Paul calls Christians to something far bigger than serving self. Christ welcomes us, so we welcome others. Christ unites people who would never naturally gather, so we worship together as one family. Christ gives us a hope that is deeper than optimism—a hope anchored in the promises of God.“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” — Romans 15:13Support our mission and learn more atwww.alloflife.churchGive to the work of the gospel herewww.alloflife.churchcenter.com/giving
In Romans 15:1–7, Dr. Roger L. Smith emphasizes the importance of church unity, urging believers to move beyond secondary disagreements. Citing Paul, he explains that mature Christians have a non-optional obligation to "bear the burdens" and weaknesses of others, mirroring how Christ sacrificially bore human infirmities. This call to unity is not about superficial niceness, but a commitment to truth and patience. Dr. Smith notes that through the encouragement and endurance found in Scripture, believers gain true hope. This hope, rooted in the Gospel rather than worldly expectations, empowers the community to live in harmony. Ultimately, the congregation is encouraged to welcome one another just as Christ welcomed them, working together to glorify God with a unified voice.
In Romans 15:1–7, Dr. Roger L. Smith emphasizes the importance of church unity, urging believers to move beyond secondary disagreements. Citing Paul, he explains that mature Christians have a non-optional obligation to "bear the burdens" and weaknesses of others, mirroring how Christ sacrificially bore human infirmities. This call to unity is not about superficial niceness, but a commitment to truth and patience. Dr. Smith notes that through the encouragement and endurance found in Scripture, believers gain true hope. This hope, rooted in the Gospel rather than worldly expectations, empowers the community to live in harmony. Ultimately, the congregation is encouraged to welcome one another just as Christ welcomed them, working together to glorify God with a unified voice.
In Romans 3:27-31, we learn that salvation by faith alone rules out boasting, racism and reckless living.
In Bible times, the Israelite Jews believed that the message of salvation was for them alone. In Romans 2 and 3, Paul makes it clear to his audience that ethnic or religious background doesn't factor into salvation. Join John Bradshaw in this study of the book of Romans to learn what Paul says about the law, righteousness through faith, and what it means to be a Jew inwardly.
In Romans chapter 16 we read about Phoebe who is described as a "servant of the church." ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
In Romans chapter 16 we read about Phoebe. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X
In Romans 10, Bryce Vaught explores how God cares, calls, and commissions every person toward salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Whatever doubt or past hurt has left you questioning God's love, this message holds the door open: the invitation to know Him is still being extended.Message Blog Post & Transcript - https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/blog-post/2026/6/22/experience-of-grace-10-open-invitationSubscribe to Orchard Hill Plus! - https://orchardhillplus.buzzsprout.com/shareConnect with Orchard Hill ChurchWebsite | https://www.orchardhillchurch.comMobile App | https://https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/appYouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/OrchardHillChurchPAFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/orchardhillchurch/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/orchardhillchurch/Twitter | https://twitter.com/orchard_hill
What do Christians do when life hurts?In Romans 8:18–30, Paul reminds us that the suffering of this present age is temporary, but the glory God has prepared for His children is eternal. In this lesson, we explore how creation itself groans under the effects of sin, how Christians patiently wait in hope for their promised inheritance, and how the Holy Spirit intercedes for us when words fail.You'll discover:• Why present suffering cannot compare to future glory • What it means that creation is "groaning" • The biblical meaning of hope • How the Holy Spirit helps believers in weakness • What Romans 8:28 really teaches about God's providence • How God works all things together for good for those who love HimNo matter what trials you're facing, God's promises provide confidence, comfort, and hope as we await the glory that is to be revealed.Scripture: Romans 8:18–30If this lesson encouraged you, please like, subscribe, and share it with others who may need hope in difficult times.#Romans8 #FutureGlory #ChristianHope #BibleSermon #FaithInSuffering #HolySpirit #Romans828 #ChurchOfChrist #BibleStudy #ChristianLiving
Many people assume they're right with God simply because they're not living in obvious rebellion. But Romans 2 exposes a deeper danger: religious deception.In Romans 1, Paul confronts open sin and rebellion.In Romans 2, he turns to the moral, religious person who thinks:"I'm okay because I'm not like them."The problem? God judges truthfully—not externally.Church attendance, Bible knowledge, Christian posts, ministry involvement, and religious activity can never replace genuine heart transformation.In this powerful Bible study, we'll examine:✅ The danger of performative Christianity✅ Why hearing truth is not the same as obeying truth✅ The difference between being planted and being rooted✅ Signs of shallow spiritual roots✅ How approval addiction can hinder spiritual growth✅ Why God looks at the heart, not appearances✅ The warning against religious pride and self-righteousness✅ What Romans 2 teaches about true surrender*Romans 2:13*"For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God's sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous."
In Romans 16, Paul closes his letter not with a final exam but with people—roughly two dozen names representing an unlikely family of believers in the heart of the Roman Empire. This message explores how the gospel creates community across every social divide, examines Paul’s warnings about those who cause division, and celebrates the ordinary faithfulness of believers like Phoebe, Priscilla, and Aquila. We’re challenged to be light bearers wherever we are and to let the faithful people in our lives be louder than those who’ve wounded us.
In Romans 8:12–18, Paul teaches that through faith in Christ we are no longer slaves to fear but adopted children of God, called to live in the freedom, security, and hope of our new identity in His family.
In Romans 9:1–33, Mike Chilcoat reframes one of Scripture's most challenging chapters — showing that God's sovereignty over Israel's story is not a reason for confusion but for praise. If you've wrestled with predestination or grace, this message offers clarity and a reminder: the invitation to know God through Jesus is wide open to everyone.Message Blog Post & Transcript - https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/blog-post/2026/6/15/experience-of-grace-9-humble-gratitudeSubscribe to Orchard Hill Plus! - https://orchardhillplus.buzzsprout.com/shareConnect with Orchard Hill ChurchWebsite | https://www.orchardhillchurch.comMobile App | https://https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/appYouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/OrchardHillChurchPAFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/orchardhillchurch/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/orchardhillchurch/Twitter | https://twitter.com/orchard_hill
In Romans 8, Paul gives us 15 benefits the holy spirit applies to our lives.