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Title: God's Appointed Evangelist: YOU! Text: Acts 21:37-22:21 FCF: We often struggle feeling adequate enough to share our faith with others. Prop: Because God providentially equips us to share the gospel, we must be excellent at submitting to His prompting to share the clear truth of the gospel. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to Acts chapter 21. In a moment we'll read from the LSB starting in verse 37. You can follow along in the pew bible or whatever version you prefer. Last time in the book of Acts Paul was dragged out of the temple and accused of violating a cultural law which prohibited all gentiles from entering the temple grounds. The crowd attempted to kill him. But he was rescued by the Roman commander who was merely trying to keep the peace. We noted last time that because the gospel is offensive we must be ready to endure slander and persecution for it. But we also must be ready to use such opportunities to share the gospel. Today we will see Paul doing just that. From his example we'll be able to understand what that looks like and how the Lord has providentially helped us to do this. So please stand with me to give honor to and to focus on the reading of the Word of God starting in verse 37 of Acts 21. Invocation: Heavenly Father, because we know that nothing happens outside of your decreed will and that all comes about to accomplish your purposes, we can rest assured that everything we have experienced in this life has been guided and directed by your providence. Therefore, we know that we are where we are because you have arranged it and that You have equipped us to do what You ask us to do. Let us then rest in this hope and strive to do all that You have asked us to. To make disciples and teach them all that You have commanded. Help us to see all this and more from the text this morning we pray in Jesus' name. Amen. Transition: Let's get right to the text this morning. I.) God providentially equips us to share the gospel, so we must look out for opportunities He gives to share the gospel. (21:37-40) a. [Slide 2] 37 - As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks, he said to the commander, “May I say something to you?” And he said, “Do you know Greek? i. As they neared the Barracks, probably ascending the second stair case, Paul wishes to speak to the Jews, desiring to show compassion on them and share the gospel to them. ii. In this process he very politely addresses the Roman commander in Greek. Something that clearly catches the Roman officer off guard, but we are not exactly sure why. iii. The common language used in Judea would have been Aramaic. Hebrew would have been used in religious conversation and instruction, especially among Judean Jews. iv. Judean Jews in general would have avoided Hellenistic entanglements, chief among them being the Greek language. v. That being said, most Jews would have known at least a little Greek and been able to speak well enough to get by. vi. What makes this even more perplexing to us is what the commander says next… b. [Slide 3] 38 - “Then you are not the Egyptian who some time ago raised a revolt and led the four thousand men of the Assassins out into the wilderness?” i. The translation of this question is something that is disputed. ii. We can talk more about it on Thursday. iii. But the guard clearly thinks or has thought up to this point that Paul is an Egyptian Assassin. iv. Again, we can go into the history of this on Thursday, but suffice it to say, something in Paul's speaking Greek has led the guard to ask this question of Paul. v. Paul quickly corrects the commander in the following verse. c. [Slide 4] 39 - But Paul said, “I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you, allow me to speak to the people.” i. Paul lays out his pedigree. He is a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia and a citizen of that city which is by no means a backwater no name city. ii. Tarsus was an important city for trade throughout the empire. It also had a rich history of education. It was also granted “free city” status, meaning it was permitted to govern itself within the Roman Empire. iii. In other words – Paul is definitely NOT the Egyptian assassin. iv. Furthermore, Paul's heritage and citizenship to a prominent city indicated that his social status was actually above even the commander himself. v. It is probably because of this that the commander permitted him to speak to the crowd who up till recently tried to kill him. d. [Slide 5] 40 - And when he had given him permission, Paul, standing on the stairs, motioned to the people with his hand; and when there was a great hush, he spoke to them in the Hebrew language, saying, i. The Commander no doubt standing next to him in approval helps to hush the crowd. ii. Then Paul begins to speak to them in the Hebrew language. Although there is a possibility that this means ancient Hebrew which we know was still known and spoken at that time, we also know that it was spoken mostly in religious situations and probably was not the common man's language. Indeed, Jews from Asia would probably not even know Hebrew. So most likely Luke means that Paul spoke Aramaic. e. [Slide 6] Summary of the Point: Today we see Paul taking the opportunity he is given to defend the gospel. But what gave him that opportunity? Paul's unique background, providentially ordered by the Lord, gives him the opportunity to defend the gospel. Paul having the pedigree he had, where he even had a higher social standing than the Roman commander arresting him, equipped him to be allowed to share the gospel that day. And the same is true for us. God has uniquely equipped each of us to share the gospel to people who other believers will never have opportunity. To the extent that where others may be silenced or killed, we will be permitted to at least provide a defense. Therefore, we must be like Paul and have the boldness and determination to speak up when we have an opportunity. Paul could have gone into the barracks and been safely secured against their attack, Instead, he used his social standing to gain an audience and defend the gospel. We should look for similar opportunities to share the gospel that are provided to us through our backgrounds which God arranged. Transition: [Slide 7(blank)] But what is Paul going to say? The crowd isn't exactly friendly. What is his responsibility in conveying the gospel to such a hostile group? Can he just be like Jonah and warn them that in 40 days they'll be destroyed? II.) God providentially equips us to share the gospel, so we must clarify misconceptions about the gospel. (22:1-16) a. [Slide 8] 1 - “Men, brothers, and fathers, hear my defense which I now offer to you.” i. Paul begins his defense with a similar address that Stephen gave to the Sanhedrin when he was brought before them. ii. Of course, Stephen was accused of speaking against the law of Moses and against the temple too. iii. And Jesus before them was accused of blasphemy and speaking against the temple. iv. What is clear is that the Jews had created a trinity of their own. They worshipped God, the law, and the temple. All of which were intricately connected. v. And bound up into that trinity is their national pride of being the chosen people of God. To attack one of the three is to attack all and to attack their Jewish identity as a whole. vi. It is no accident that the charges brought against everyone the Jews wanted dead were the same. This is the way they can make sure that they can stir up every Jew against the one they want gone. vii. Paul begins his defense which is not only a testimony of his salvation and commission to ministry – but also a rich defense of his own Jewish heritage and standing. b. [Slide 9] 2 - And when they heard that he was addressing them in the Hebrew language, they became even quieter; and he said, i. Right off the bat, the people understand that this is not a Hellenized Jew – at least not entirely. ii. To speak Aramaic, and to do so well enough to make a defense before a hostile crowd, means that he is not rejecting Jewish heritage or culture. iii. The crowd responds with affording him their attention. c. [Slide 10] 3 - “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but having been brought up in this city, having been instructed at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strictness of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God just as you all are today, i. Notice that Paul doesn't deny his birth city, but quickly moves past it to recount his early life. ii. From a boy, Paul was brought up in the city of Jerusalem. iii. While in the city, Paul was instructed according to the strictness of the Mosaic law by none other than Gamaliel. iv. The last time we heard that name was at Peter and John's trial before the Sanhedrin. v. Gamaliel's advice was to leave the apostles alone and see what happens of the Nazarene sect. If they are not of God, then they will dissolve to nothing. If they are of God, then the council would be caught fighting against God's will. vi. Pretty sound advice. Advice that they did not heed. vii. Still, from historical records, we know that Gamaliel was a Rabbi and head of a Rabbinical school in Jerusalem and even though they did not listen to his advice on that occasion, we know he was well respected in the Jewish community of that time. viii. Paul indicating that he was zealous for God just as the Jews were on this very day, is indicating that Paul does not see his persecutors as enemies. He too is zealous for God. And has been since being instructed in the ways of the Pharisees. ix. How devoted was he for God? d. [Slide 11] 4 - I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering both men and women into prisons, 5 - as also the high priest and all the Council of the elders can testify. From them I also received letters to the brothers, and started off for Damascus in order to bring even those who were there to Jerusalem as prisoners to be punished. i. He was so zealous for God that he persecuted the Nazarene sect called “The Way” to death. ii. Perhaps at this time some rumor or lie was being spread around indicating that Paul never really did this. But Paul appeals to the testimony of the high priest and all the council of Elders. iii. They can give you their testimony that this is the case. iv. They can also tell you how they gave him letters to Damascus to bring those following The Way back to Jerusalem to be imprisoned and punished. v. Paul was once the exact same as they are today. To the extent that he did to others what they have done to him. vi. Paul doesn't see them as his enemy. Because he was just like them at one time. vii. So this begs the questions… what happened to make him different today? And how different has he become? e. [Slide 12] 6 - But it happened that as I was on my way, approaching Damascus about noontime, a very bright light suddenly flashed from heaven all around me, i. Visions from God have been and continue to be recognized as important ways that God communicates corrective truth to people in the middle east. ii. As Eric Lundquist was saying last week, Iranian Christians converting from Islam frequently speak of visions they have received from God imploring them to seek Christ. iii. Some of the greatest prophets of Israel's and even Islam's history have or have claimed to see visions from God to reveal truth. iv. If someone today said something similar to Paul, we would be right to test them thoroughly for signs of God working in their life beyond simply a vision. And Paul will provide that too. v. But the Jews would not be skeptical of this sign merely because it was a vision from heaven. f. [Slide 13] 7 - and I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?' 8 - And I answered, ‘Who are You, Lord?' And He said to me, ‘I am Jesus the Nazarene, whom you are persecuting.' i. Voices from heaven are rare in the Old Testament. But when someone hears from heaven it is never anyone but God Himself who speaks. ii. This is probably why Paul assumed that this was the Lord speaking. iii. This is similar to the time when Moses asks what he should call God when he goes back to the Israelite captives to inform them that God was going to rescue them. Which God? iv. God says, tell them “I AM” has sent you. Yahweh. The proper name of God. v. By Paul asking Who are you, Lord – he is looking for confirmation that the God with whom He speaks is Yahweh Himself. vi. How shocking then… Is the answer? vii. I am Jesus the Nazarene whom you are persecuting. viii. In heaven, with God, is this one Jesus the Nazarene. ix. Without actually saying the words, Paul testifies clearly here that Jesus and Yahweh are one. They are One God in three distinct persons. x. The God who addressed Moses from the burning bush is the same God who addressed Paul on that road. xi. But to make such a claim that Jesus spoke to him from heaven, it would be necessary to have witnesses, wouldn't it? Especially since the name given was not Yahweh. xii. Who else was there to hear or see what happened? g. [Slide 14] 9 - And those who were with me beheld the light, to be sure, but did not understand the voice of the One who was speaking to me. i. The guards who went with Paul that day, did see the light. ii. And here we have our first discrepancy regarding the story of Paul's conversion. iii. In Acts chapter 9 it says that these guards did hear the voice, but here Paul says that they did not understand the voice. Now before you start pointing out to me that hearing and understanding aren't the same things… iv. The Greek word IS the same. The LSB, for some reason, translates it here as understanding instead of hearing. What a crummy translation… well, hang on. Let's investigate. v. So how do we deal with Luke recording that the men heard the voice but didn't see the person speaking, and Paul saying that they did not hear the voice? This seems to be quite the contradiction. vi. There is an easy explanation that we can actually demonstrate using a similar word in English. 1. If I, in the midst of giving a command to my daughter, ask her if she is listening, and she says yes… in one sense we can see that she did listen to me. But if that story goes forward and we find out that she did not obey the command I gave, we could say that she did not listen. 2. Well how could she have listened and not listened at the same time? It is a matter of different definitions of the same word. Correct? 3. Listening can mean hearing and it can also mean obeying. vii. In a similar way, the semantic range of the word ἀκούω includes not only hearing the noise of something but also comprehending it. viii. So, in Luke's earlier account It is clear that he records that the soldiers heard the voice. ix. By Paul saying that they did not hear, we must take the second definition of the word which means to listen or to understand. x. Thus the LSB records for us the appropriate meaning. That the guards with him did hear the voice but were not able to comprehend what was said to Paul. xi. In short, he had witnesses to this event. And even though they did not understand the voice which spoke, they did hear it and they certainly heard and understood Paul's responses. h. [Slide 15] 10 - And I said, ‘What should I do, Lord?' And the Lord said to me, ‘Rise up and go on into Damascus, and there you will be told of all that has been determined for you to do.' 11 - But since I could not see because of the glory of that light, being led by the hand by those who were with me, I came into Damascus. i. Jesus the Nazarene instructs Paul to go to Damascus and wait for someone to come to him to tell him what to do. ii. The miracle of this would not be lost on anyone, since Damascus was a large city and all those of The Way would have feared Paul to the point of avoiding him. Who is going to come and talk to Paul in this state? iii. Paul continues the story of how he was blinded by this light and had to be led to Damascus. Once again this is something the guards could have borne witness to. i. [Slide 16] 12 - Now a certain Ananias, a man who was devout by the standard of the Law, and well-spoken of by all the Jews who lived there, 13 - came to me, and standing near, said to me, ‘Brother Saul, regain your sight!' And at that very hour I regained my sight and saw him. i. Notice what Paul is doing with his testimony of conversion. ii. He is highlighting the important, Jewish, law abiding, zealous people who helped to shape and form him. iii. Now he moves to a man named Ananias, who is well known to be a devout law-abiding Jew, known by Jews who lived in Damascus. iv. But Ananias was CLEARLY of The Way. v. What is Paul saying? vi. They are not mutually exclusive. You can be zealous for the law of Moses and still be a follower of Christ. vii. That is not to say that they are the same thing or that the law is equal in importance to Christ. But it is to say that there is no conflict between abiding by the law of Moses and following Christ. viii. One must simply hold them in their appropriate places of importance. ix. Ananias commands Paul to regain his sight and at that moment his sight returned. j. [Slide 17] 14 - And he said, ‘The God of our fathers has appointed you to know His will and to see the Righteous One and to hear a voice from His mouth. 15 - ‘For you will be a witness for Him to all men of what you have seen and heard. 16 - Now why do you delay? Rise up and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on His name.' i. Notice what Ananias says. The God of our fathers – Yahweh of course, has appointed, chosen, elected you to know His will and to see the Righteous One (Jesus the Nazarene) and to hear a voice from His mouth. ii. The Righteous One title is interesting because it is a title given to Yahweh's servant who is called Righteous and will justify many by bearing their iniquities. iii. The title “The Righteous One” implies sinless perfection having no blemish or spot in moral uprightness. Truly no person could claim such a thing. And so this human must be more than merely human. iv. Paul is commissioned to go to all men and bear witness of what he has seen and heard. v. At that moment Ananias commands him to rise up and be baptized and wash your sins away calling on His name. vi. Although many camps within Christendom would see the teaching of water baptism in view here whereby we are actually, as they would say, washed from our sin – it is clear that Ananias means not a literal physical washing only, but an inward, Spirit baptism. To be baptized by the Spirit is to be converted, to be justified, to be indwelled by the Spirit. vii. Baptism of the Spirit refers to the moment when a person who has been made alive with Christ repents and receives Him as Lord and Savior. viii. Notice that Ananias says to be baptized, wash your sins away, while calling on His name. ix. Thus, Paul is converted in this moment. x. And notice what the good Jew says to Paul… Get up, be baptized, be washed of your sins by calling on His name. xi. Whose name? xii. Is it the God of our Fathers or is it the Righteous One? xiii. Yes. Calling on Jesus' name IS calling on Yahweh's name. k. Summary of the Point: Notice still God's providential hand on Paul's testimony of salvation. The charges against Paul are primarily his rejection of the law, the Jewish people and their customs, and the temple itself. But he was zealous for the law, even opposing The Way, but was rebuked by a Jewish Messiah who spoke from heaven, a place higher than the temple, and led to faith in this Jesus by a well-respected Jew in Damascus. You can't get much more Jewish than that story! God providentially provided all of this to Paul in his conversion testimony, so that he could systematically cast down and defend the gospel he preached against all the accusations of being anti-Jew, anti-law, and anti-temple. We too must cast down arguments and defend the gospel against false caricatures of its teachings. We must do apologetics to prove that such things are lies. And God providentially provides each of our testimonies of faith as arguments against those false views. Transition: [Slide 19 (blank)] Paul has successfully defended the gospel. But what about the other component here? What about the Gentiles. Why is Paul mixed up with them? III.) God providentially equips us to share the gospel, but we must trust His leading not our own wisdom. (22:17-21) a. [Slide 20] 17 - Now it happened when I returned to Jerusalem and was praying in the temple, that I fell into a trance, 18 - and I saw Him saying to me, ‘Hurry and get out of Jerusalem quickly, because they will not accept your witness about Me.' i. Although Luke does record Paul going back to Jerusalem in Acts 9, we are not told about this event. Luke there is focusing on Paul's relationship to other believers. That isn't what's happening here. What does he say? ii. While I was in the temple praying. iii. Well how much more devout could a Jew be to be praying in the temple? iv. And during a visit to the temple is when he sees another vision in a trance. v. In this vision, the Lord Jesus again speaks to him commanding him to get out of Jerusalem because “they” will not accept your witness about Me. vi. Who is they? vii. Paul's response to the Lord at that time makes it clear. b. [Slide 21] 19 - And I said, ‘Lord, they themselves understand that in one synagogue after another I used to imprison and beat those who believed in You. 20 - And when the blood of Your witness Stephen was being shed, I also was standing by approving, and guarding the garments of those who were slaying him.' i. The “they” is the non-believing Jews. ii. Paul's rebuttal to the Lord Jesus is that he seems like the perfect candidate to send to the Jews. iii. Afterall, there are few in Jerusalem who do not know who he is. They know how he used to fight against the people of The Way and even stood in approval over the stoning of Stephen. iv. He has a powerful testimony toward these people. They SHOULD believe him. v. Why? vi. Because he used to be one of them. vii. But Jesus points out that often it is the opposite. viii. The Jews, as we have seen throughout the book of Acts, have either believed Paul's gospel message – or they have sought to kill him. And there really isn't any middle ground. ix. Jesus at this time commands him to leave. c. [Slide 22] 21 - And He said to me, ‘Go! For I will send you far away to the Gentiles.'” i. You aren't the perfect person to go to the Jews. They are going to reject you and your message. ii. Instead I am sending you far away to the Gentiles. iii. First, to those in Tarsus… your home. iv. Then to those in Antioch of Syria. Then to Asia. Then to Greece. v. And soon to Rome and even Spain. vi. Paul would go to the Gentiles. vii. What a marvelous mission. viii. If only the Jews were not full of bigotry and hatred at this time… but more on that next week. d. [Slide 23] Summary of the Point: Here we see an interesting point that counterbalances all we have seen thus far. God providentially put Paul in a great position to share the gospel on this particular occasion. But keen observers would have noticed that all of his background was true before he left Jerusalem to go and preach the gospel to the Gentiles. So, we, and perhaps even his audience, would be wondering why Paul ever left if his background makes him an ideal candidate to share the gospel. Paul reveals in his testimony that he also wondered the same thing. From his perspective, he would be the ideal candidate to preach the gospel to the Jews. Nevertheless, God had other plans for him. Jesus commanded him to go. Why? Because the Jews would reject him and the gospel and because God had ordained him to take the gospel to the Gentiles. We too must be careful that we don't trust our own wisdom in analyzing who we are best equipped to take the gospel to. Instead, we must be sensitive to the Lord's leading in when and to whom we share our faith. Conclusion: So CBC, what have we learned and how shall we live? What are some basic teachings of belief and practice from this text? Basics of Belief and Practice: [Slide 24] The primary point of belief we should gain from this text is that God Himself providentially equips us to bear witness to the truth of the gospel. From this doctrinal point, revolving around God's role to sovereignly guide our backgrounds so we are the right tool for the job… we have several applications for us. First, is to seek and take opportunities to share the gospel. Second, we must clarify any known misrepresentations of the gospel as we give a defense for the hope we have in us. Thirdly, and serving as a counterweight to this, although God does providentially equip us to share the gospel, we must be careful that we don't make assumptions from our background of to whom we might be called to bear witness to the truth. But let me see if we can expand these truths out a little by first heading back to the text and then out from it to our lives. 1.) [Slide 25] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that God providentially equips us to share the gospel with unbelievers. a. We see this in Paul's life as everything he is doing is completely in keeping with the scope of Judaism, the law, the Jewish nation, and the temple itself. b. Paul has been uniquely equipped to take the gospel to the Gentiles while continuing to cherish and observe the teachings of Judaism. c. Paul is not only the right man to preach the gospel to the Gentiles he is also the right man to stand before the Jews at this very moment and confront them with the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. d. And of course, he is only allowed to do this because God providentially gave him a social standing that supersedes the Roman commander who was trying to arrest him. e. You and I also have been providentially, from the beginning of our lives to this very moment, supplied with a unique background which equips us with all sorts of experiences, values, morals, virtues, and passions. And each of these are given both negatively and positively. f. Modern psychology attempts to tell us that our backgrounds shape us and mold us for the worse. We are a product of our environment and our upbringing. But this isn't the way Paul saw it. g. And this isn't the way the scriptures frame God's sovereign control of all things. h. All our background, positive and negative, serves to shape and form and mold us to be uniquely equipped to serve the Lord and His Kingdom and His righteousness. i. Paul even uses his shameful persecution of Christians as a point in his gospel presentation to prove that the gospel is NOT anti-Jew. j. Everything we have experienced and gone through, everything that has shaped us, was not done by some blind force or shapeless entity we call “the universe”. k. Instead – EVERYTHING that has happened to us has been guided and superintended by a Good and Loving God who prepares us to serve Him as Soldiers of the Cross of Christ. l. You may not use every experience in every situation where God has called you to share the gospel – but make no mistake, God has prepared you to bring the truth of the gospel to bear upon the souls of those who do not believe. m. Not everyone needs a scholarly presentation of the gospel. Not everyone needs a story presentation of the gospel. Not everyone needs a hyper logical presentation of the gospel. But everyone needs the Word of God shown to them in ways that your unique background can help to explain. n. There is no Christian that God has providentially prepared to sit in the pews. There is no Christian that God has providentially prepared to keep quiet while the others talk. o. You have a mission field that few if any will ever be able to reach. p. So, what do we do with this truth? 2.) [Slide 26] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must jump on opportunities God gives to share the gospel. a. Paul could have stayed quiet. b. In fact, many counselors may have advised him at this time to quit while he was ahead. c. It seemed like the Roman commander was going to deliver him safely from the mob. d. Instead, he uses his social influence to convince the commander to allow him to address the crowds who were just moments ago trying to kill him. e. We too must seek and boldly capitalize on evangelism opportunities that come our way. f. Unfortunately many of us choose to hide in the shadows hoping someone else will speak up concerning the gospel message. g. We are tortured by fears of inadequacy and rejection. h. Paul's example, at least this week helps us. Of course they did reject Paul – we'll get to that next week. i. Ultimately this shows us that our fear of inadequacy is unfounded and our fear of rejection must be rebuked. j. Inadequacy cuts directly against the point we just looked at, where God uniquely equips us to share the gospel with others whom we come into contact with. k. And Rejection is actually something we are guaranteed we will experience. Fearing rejection for preaching the gospel is like fearing getting dirty if you clean out the pig pen. If fear of getting dirty stops you from cleaning out the pig pen, then you don't understand what it means to own a pig. In the same way if fear of rejection stops you from preaching the gospel, you may not even understand the gospel in the first place. l. Let me try to help you out to know whether or not God is calling you to step up and share the gospel with someone… m. If you are a Christian in the room when people misconstrue the gospel or ask questions concerning its teachings… guess what… You can just take that as God's call for you to speak. You don't have to wait for a sign. You don't have to pray about it to make sure it is God's will. n. You can just go for it. Speak from the heart, speak about what God did for you, and make sure that you speak with words the scriptures use. Stay away from trite phrases not found in the bible. Like… i. Ask Jesus into your heart. ii. Say yes to Jesus iii. Accept Jesus into your life iv. Pray this prayer v. Make him the Lord of your life vi. Etc. o. Also… stay away from non-universal experiences that are not common to every single person who comes to Christ in the bible. Like… i. I felt a weight lifted off my shoulders… ii. I felt warm all over as if I was being hugged by God iii. I wept uncontrollably iv. I started convulsing on the ground because I realized how sinful I was v. I heard an audible voice from God calling me to believe. vi. I saw Jesus holding out his arms to me. vii. Etc p. Instead, focus on what the bible actually says – stick to the words it uses as closely as you can while still being clear… i. All men are wicked and have evil hearts which cannot be cured. All men are dead in their trespasses and sins and are enslaved to their passions and their lusts. All men love their evil deeds. All men do not seek God. ii. Jesus died for sinners. Jesus became sin so that we might become the righteousness of God. Jesus was the substitute which absorbed sin's penalty for sinners and gave them a right standing before God. Jesus is the new representative for all who place their complete trust in Him. iii. Jesus was raised the third day and has ascended to the Father's side where He now continues to be with and help all those who are His people. And all who are in Him will also be raised and live with Him forever. iv. Repent- turn from your sin and believe and depend on this gospel. q. In short – we must understand that since God has prepared us for this very purpose, if we are lazy or afraid, we are falling short of God's calling on our lives. We are failing at one of the very reasons we are still on earth. r. We aren't here to work a job, support our family, or enjoy retirement. These are inherently part of being what God wants us to be – but it isn't why we are here. s. We are here to make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Triune God and teaching them to observe all the things He has commanded. 3.) [Slide 27] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must clarify and defend the truth of the gospel. a. Paul, by his own testimony, proves without a doubt that everything about his conversion and his mission is NOT anti-jew. b. So we too must be apologists, seeking to defend the gospel against misconceptions and false summarizations of its teachings. c. Although the details are different, generally speaking all Christians are saved the exact same way. d. Romans 8 clues us in to some of that process and the 5 Solas of the reformation help to expound what the bible teaches on that process. e. Since this is the case, each of our testimonies serve as an anecdotal proof that all the misconceptions about the gospel fail when it is compared to the universal shared experience of all who are truly believers. f. We can go to the scriptures to show exactly what God did for us and how He accomplished it. g. We may not have understood it when we were saved – but we certainly understand it now or at least, we should. h. In this we can counter all the accusations of being brainwashed, deceived, or otherwise conned by this religious teaching. i. With the bible we can also address misconceptions about the gospel where people assume it is a works based salvation that is similar to other faiths, or an unnecessarily narrow religion of intolerance. j. In short, it is incumbent upon us as those who bear witness to the gospel of Christ, to clarify and defend the truth of the gospel. For if the gospel is tainted by untruth it stops becoming the gospel and is therefore unable to save anyone. k. But If we are to clarify and defend the truth of the gospel, we must be diligent in our study and understanding of it. We cannot be satisfied with a rudimentary understanding of nature of the gospel. For even though it is simple enough for children to believe, it is infinite enough that scholars still admit there are things we can't quite explain about God and what He has done for us. l. Just because it is simple enough for a child to believe, doesn't mean you should preach it with the understanding of a child. m. No Christian has an excuse. We must be theologians and understand as much as we can about this gospel we preach. 4.) [Slide 28] De-Exhortation: “What actions should we stop doing” or “What behaviors do we naturally practice that this passage tells us to stop doing?” We must stop assuming our background limits or reveals God's will for our mission field. a. Paul thought he was uniquely equipped to share the gospel with the Jews. b. And that is true in Acts 22. c. But this was only after God sent him to the gentiles. d. Because this is where God wanted him to go and because generally the Jews would see him as a traitor and not as an example to follow. e. Sometimes we can be abundantly convinced that we are best equipped to share the gospel to certain mission fields. Or that we are ill equipped to take the gospel to others. f. But this may be a terrible assumption which is counter to God's will. g. Former Mormons or Jehovah's witnesses can make excellent evangelists to some – but they can also be perceived as traitors and apostates and dismissed without even allowing them to speak. h. Former drug addicts could be effective at sharing the gospel to those still addicted – or they may be seen as a Christ figure, someone to be followed instead of Jesus Himself. i. In every case, as we consider where God would have us minister, our background can help to inform us where we might be best used, but ultimately, we must listen for the Lord's leading. 5.) Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” Why do you delay? Rise up, be baptized in the Spirit! Wash away your sins by calling on Jesus' name! a. Perhaps you are here today and the testimony of Paul and the songs about God's salvation and all that Jesus has done, have stirred your heart. b. Perhaps you have realized that you are a sinner in danger of the Lord's judgement and wrath? c. Perhaps you like Paul have opposed Christ at every turn. d. What are you waiting for? e. Call on the name of Jesus and wash yourself clean in His sacrifice for you. Follow Him and be His. Let me close with a prayer by the Scottish Reformed theologian Robert Rollock Lord, when we stand up to speak of the resurrection of Christ to others, give us grace so that we may be persuaded of it in our own hearts. May we find his gracious Spirit working in us, and as we speak of heaven and these joys to others, may we also find that joy in our own hearts. So that after this life is ended, we may reign with him in glory forever with Christ! To whom, with the Father, and the Holy Spirit, be all honor, praise, and glory forevermore. Amen. Benediction: And now let all people in Zion declare his gracious name, With one accord, So that all nations will fear the name of the Lord, That a people yet to be created may praise the LORD. Until we meet again, go in peace.

2:30 Green Scam Implodes: Climate Startups Swap CO2 Lies for Fighter Jets and Depopulation Bombs      Climate startups once preaching “save the planet” are now churning out jet fighters and AI war machines—guzzling fossil fuels and spewing bombs like there's no tomorrow! Forget CO2—these green grifters never cared about the Earth; it's always been a depopulation cash grab, from Paul Ehrlich's “population bomb” to vaccine plagues.     Meanwhile, an AI study (led by Grok 3!) and a maverick scientist shred the UN's climate hoax, proving solar cycles—not your carbon footprint—rule the planet.     Oh, and global headcounts? Off by billions, says a dam-busting study! Trump's coal comeback might just torch this scam—but is it too late to stop the elitist kill-machine 33:00 Tesla Tanks, China Soars, and Your Wallet Bleeds in a Trade War Fiasco     Trump's latest tariff tirade is a high-octane disaster! With a dictator's pen stroke, he's slapped a 25% tax on autos, jacking up the average car price by a staggering $12,000 overnight—straight out of your pocket! Tesla's sales in Europe have crashed while China's BYD rockets      Are tariffs meant to help domestic manufacturers? Stocks for GM and Ford are tanking as trade war retaliation looms. 48:27 EU Prepares for War: Panic, Propaganda, and the REAL Scandal No One Talks About      The EU is ramping up for war, advising citizens to stockpile a mere 72 hours of supplies while downplaying the true dangers looming.     Forget the media frenzy about “Signal”, the real scandal is the violation of the Constitution, not the violation of “national security”.  And what about the morality of the unleashing of death on the other side of the world as they wine and dine at a MILLION DOLLAR A PLATE Mar-a-Lago fundraiser?     From the secretive military operations in Diego Garcia to bombings in Yemen, the world is heading toward chaos—and it's not just about national security, it's about a global power reset. Get the truth behind the headlines before it's too late. 1:09:11 Iranian Christians Deported: Real Refugees Thrown to Wolves     A group of Iranian Christians, facing execution for their faith, begged for U.S. asylum—only to be betrayed by the Trump administration and dumped in Panama with a 30-day return nearly up.     A gripping tale of underground churches and deadly persecution, and American indifference 1:17:42 Abortion's Marxist Roots in Today's Woke War on FamilyWe can see the fruit of the Soviet Union's 1920 abortion legalization and Trotsky's view of replacing the family with government in today's secularist society shoving Christians out of the public square.  The remedy was explained 150 years ago by a politician who nearly became President but became a pastor instead when he lost by 1 vote 1:35:22 Gold's Meteoric Rise, the Dollar's Demise, and Trump's Tariff Chaos Spark a Global Financial ResetGold has surged past $3,000 an ounce and held on or increased admit the chaos. Tony Arterburn joins David Knight as central banks are hoarding gold like it's the last lifeboat on a sinking ship. Is this the orchestrated collapse of the dollar paving the way for a dazzling new financial world order? Visit DavidKnight.Gold for stability and privacy that's priceless 2:19:58 Thank you to CashApp donors 2:21:20 Measles Death? Parents of Child Reveal She Died of Malpractice     A 6-year-old girl's death, hyped as a measles tragedy, was actually a chilling case of medical malpractice Meanwhile, vaccine rates drop as trust in “public health” tyrants crumbles so Daily Mail screams the "world's most infectious disease” comes to DC— not bureaucrats but measles?      And Washington Post goes on the attack when their beloved vax is to be investigated.  What's the truth about mercury?  Is there a connection between vaccines and MS? 2:47:06 Vaccines: The Parasite Pipeline to MS?As research reveals a massive increase in MS after vaccination, a doctor says 100% of MS autopsies had parasites.  Is there a connection? If you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-show Or you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Money should have intrinsic value AND transactional privacy: Go to DavidKnight.gold for great deals on physical gold/silverFor 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to TrendsJournal.com and enter the code KNIGHTFor 10% off supplements and books, go to RNCstore.com and enter the code KNIGHTBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-david-knight-show--2653468/support.

2:30 Green Scam Implodes: Climate Startups Swap CO2 Lies for Fighter Jets and Depopulation Bombs      Climate startups once preaching “save the planet” are now churning out jet fighters and AI war machines—guzzling fossil fuels and spewing bombs like there's no tomorrow! Forget CO2—these green grifters never cared about the Earth; it's always been a depopulation cash grab, from Paul Ehrlich's “population bomb” to vaccine plagues.     Meanwhile, an AI study (led by Grok 3!) and a maverick scientist shred the UN's climate hoax, proving solar cycles—not your carbon footprint—rule the planet.     Oh, and global headcounts? Off by billions, says a dam-busting study! Trump's coal comeback might just torch this scam—but is it too late to stop the elitist kill-machine 33:00 Tesla Tanks, China Soars, and Your Wallet Bleeds in a Trade War Fiasco     Trump's latest tariff tirade is a high-octane disaster! With a dictator's pen stroke, he's slapped a 25% tax on autos, jacking up the average car price by a staggering $12,000 overnight—straight out of your pocket! Tesla's sales in Europe have crashed while China's BYD rockets      Are tariffs meant to help domestic manufacturers? Stocks for GM and Ford are tanking as trade war retaliation looms. 48:27 EU Prepares for War: Panic, Propaganda, and the REAL Scandal No One Talks About      The EU is ramping up for war, advising citizens to stockpile a mere 72 hours of supplies while downplaying the true dangers looming.     Forget the media frenzy about “Signal”, the real scandal is the violation of the Constitution, not the violation of “national security”.  And what about the morality of the unleashing of death on the other side of the world as they wine and dine at a MILLION DOLLAR A PLATE Mar-a-Lago fundraiser?     From the secretive military operations in Diego Garcia to bombings in Yemen, the world is heading toward chaos—and it's not just about national security, it's about a global power reset. Get the truth behind the headlines before it's too late. 1:09:11 Iranian Christians Deported: Real Refugees Thrown to Wolves     A group of Iranian Christians, facing execution for their faith, begged for U.S. asylum—only to be betrayed by the Trump administration and dumped in Panama with a 30-day return nearly up.     A gripping tale of underground churches and deadly persecution, and American indifference 1:17:42 Abortion's Marxist Roots in Today's Woke War on FamilyWe can see the fruit of the Soviet Union's 1920 abortion legalization and Trotsky's view of replacing the family with government in today's secularist society shoving Christians out of the public square.  The remedy was explained 150 years ago by a politician who nearly became President but became a pastor instead when he lost by 1 vote 1:35:22 Gold's Meteoric Rise, the Dollar's Demise, and Trump's Tariff Chaos Spark a Global Financial ResetGold has surged past $3,000 an ounce and held on or increased admit the chaos. Tony Arterburn joins David Knight as central banks are hoarding gold like it's the last lifeboat on a sinking ship. Is this the orchestrated collapse of the dollar paving the way for a dazzling new financial world order? Visit DavidKnight.Gold for stability and privacy that's priceless 2:19:58 Thank you to CashApp donors 2:21:20 Measles Death? Parents of Child Reveal She Died of Malpractice     A 6-year-old girl's death, hyped as a measles tragedy, was actually a chilling case of medical malpractice Meanwhile, vaccine rates drop as trust in “public health” tyrants crumbles so Daily Mail screams the "world's most infectious disease” comes to DC— not bureaucrats but measles?      And Washington Post goes on the attack when their beloved vax is to be investigated.  What's the truth about mercury?  Is there a connection between vaccines and MS? 2:47:06 Vaccines: The Parasite Pipeline to MS?As research reveals a massive increase in MS after vaccination, a doctor says 100% of MS autopsies had parasites.  Is there a connection?If you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-show Or you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Money should have intrinsic value AND transactional privacy: Go to DavidKnight.gold for great deals on physical gold/silverFor 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to TrendsJournal.com and enter the code KNIGHTFor 10% off supplements and books, go to RNCstore.com and enter the code KNIGHTBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-david-knight-show--5282736/support.

Segment 1: Trump Appoints Pro-Life FDA to Stop Abortion Pills Dr. Chaps discusses former President Donald Trump's bold decision to appoint a pro-life advocate to lead the FDA, aiming to restrict the distribution of abortion pills. This move has sparked intense debate about the role of federal agencies in protecting life and ensuring healthcare aligns with moral values. Tune in to learn how this decision could shape the future of pro-life policy in America. Segment 2: Israel Agrees to Cease-Fire with Hezbollah Terrorists In a surprising development, Israel has agreed to a cease-fire with Hezbollah militants, aiming to de-escalate tensions in the region. Dr. Chaps explores the potential implications of this cease-fire, addressing concerns about security, regional stability, and the role of prayer in achieving lasting peace. Stay tuned for insights into what this means for Israel and its allies. Segment 3: Iranian Christians Refused Asylum in Georgia Dr. Chaps sheds light on a troubling case where Iranian Christians fleeing persecution have been denied asylum in Georgia. Facing threats to their safety and religious freedom, these individuals represent the ongoing plight of Christians in hostile regions. Discover how you can advocate for these refugees and stand in solidarity with the persecuted church. Get free alerts at http://PrayInJesusName.org © 2024, Chaplain Gordon James Klingenschmitt, PhD. Airs on NRB TV, Direct TV Ch.378, Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, GoogleTV, Smart TV, iTunes and www.PrayInJesusName.org

Myles and Naghmeh Panahi sit down again to discuss her journey from the Underground Church of Iran to the halls of the United Nations. Naghmeh recounts her experiences with God as she and the Iranian Christians reach towards the prophetic fulfillment of Jeremiah 49. You can obtain her amazing book, "I Didn't Survive"  and support her ministry at:https://naghmehpanahi.com/Support the show

This week on the Quad, Fleur Hassan-Nahoum and Emily Schrader are joined by guest host Jonathan Elkhoury. Jonathan has a fascinating perspective on the current conflict as his family escaped Hezbollah's Lebanon for Israel along with other Lebanese Christians a couple of decades ago. They also interview Iranian Christian artist Hooman Khalili about his experience breaking barriers and connecting Israelis and Iranians. And, of course, scumbags and heroes! Stay informed about Israel and the Jewish World!Latest news: Get in-depth analysis at https://bit.ly/jewish_news_serviceSubscribe for more: Never miss a story - sign up for our newsletter https://bit.ly/subscribe_to_JNSSupport our work: Your donation helps JNS fight for accurate headlines: https://bit.ly/Support_JNS

Political prisoners are typically clapped in the clink by communist governments on the charge of some legal technicality. That's precisely what is happening in the good old USS of A. Pro-lifers, Christian homeschool dads, and election questioners are getting 3-9 years in prison these days. Here's yet another story taken from a highly reliable source we need to share with our listening audience. This program includes: 1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus (Barna: 32 million Christians unlikely to vote in election, William Tyndale's momentous life & death, Iranian Christian released from prison 5 years early) 2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

It's Thursday, October 10th, A.D. 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Iranian Christian released from prison 5 years early Church in Chains reports that authorities in Iran released a Christian convert from Evin Prison in Tehran last week. Mehdi Akbari had already spent nearly five years in prison out of his 10-year sentence. Thankfully, a court reduced his sentence.  Officials arrested him in 2019 on charges of “acting against national security by forming an illegal evangelical Christian group.”  Mansour Borji with Article 18, a non-profit religious liberty group, welcomed Mehdi's release. He said, “We call now for the immediate release of the other at least 20 Christians still in prison only on account of their beliefs and the peaceful outworking of these beliefs, such as Armenian citizen Hakop Gochumyan, who is also serving a ten-year sentence only because he visited some churches and was in possession of a handful of Bibles.” Irish legislature drops ambiguously worded “hate speech” bill The Irish legislature dropped “hate speech” elements from proposed legislation last month. The Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences Bill 2022 is currently stuck in the Irish Senate. The bill originally would criminalize the possession of material considered “likely” to incite hatred with up to five years in jail. The bill did not clearly define “hate.” This left many concerned that Christians could face jail time for simply affirming a Biblical understanding of sexuality. Alliance Defending Freedom International noted, “With the world watching, the people of Ireland said ‘no' to state censorship, and it's working.” Colorado Supreme Court dismissed case again Christian baker Jack Phillips In the United States, the Colorado  Supreme Court sided with a Christian baker on Tuesday. Jack Phillips of Masterpiece Cakeshop has faced years of harassment for his biblical beliefs about marriage and sexuality.  The state's high court dismissed the latest case against him. The case started in 2017 when Phillips refused to bake a cake to celebrate someone pretending to be the opposite sex. Senior Counsel Jake Warner with Alliance Defending Freedom said, “Enough is enough. Jack has been dragged through courts for over a decade. It's time to leave him alone. Free speech is for everyone. As the U.S. Supreme Court held in 303 Creative, the government cannot force artists to express messages they don't believe.” Psalm 14:4 asks, “Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge, who eat up My people as they eat bread, and do not call on the LORD?”  Toyota ends participation in sexually deviant corporate index Toyota told its U.S. employees last Thursday that it will no longer participate in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index. The Equality Index, run by the radical, pro-homosexual Human Rights Campaign, measures how supportive companies are of sexually perverted lifestyles. Toyota will reportedly no longer participate in events that celebrate such lifestyles. The Japanese car maker will also focus its community activities on workforce readiness and education in science, technology, engineering, and math. 10 states have abortion on the ballot Voters across 10 states will vote on ballot initiatives involving abortion this coming November. Those states are Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, and South Dakota. In most cases, the initiatives would support abortion up to birth. U.S. Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri addressed the 2024 Pray Vote Stand Summit last week on the ballot initiatives. Listen. HAWLEY: “As the people go to the polls, let's be clear, as conservatives and yes, as Republicans, that we advocate life, that we urge our fellow Americans to support life.  We will do everything we can to protect life in the law all across this country. This is absolutely foundational!” Barna: 32 million Christians unlikely to vote in presidential election Dr. George Barna  released a report on the voting practices of people of faith. The survey found that 104 million people who identify with some religion are unlikely to vote in the upcoming presidential election. Sadly, this includes 32 million self-identified Christians who attend church regularly. People said they were unlikely to vote because they weren't interested in elections, disliked the major candidates, or didn't think their vote would make a difference. William Tyndale's momentous life and death And finally, this week is the anniversary of William Tyndale's death, traditionally commemorated on October 6. Tyndale faced arrest and later death in 1536 for alleged heresy. However, he had worked tirelessly to translate the Bible into English. It was his devotion to Scripture that brought him into conflict with church and civil leaders. In response to an assertion of the supremacy of the Pope, Tyndale famously said, “I defy the Pope and all his laws; and if God spares my life, ere many years, I will cause the boy that driveth the plow to know more of the Scriptures than thou dost!” Tyndale's final words, spoken at the stake with a fervent zeal, and a loud voice, were reported later as "Lord! Open the King of England's eyes." Then, Tyndale was strangled to death  while tied at the stake, and then his dead body was burned.   Copies of Tyndale's translation were smuggled into England by the thousands. His work would form the basis of the Great Bible, edited by Miles Coverdale which made its way into every parish church just three years after Tyndale's death. Isaiah 52:7 says, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns.'” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, October 10th, in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Political-prisoners are typically clapped in the clink by communist governments on the charge of some legal technicality. That's precisely what is happening in the good old USS of A. Pro-lifers, Christian homeschool dads, and election questioners are getting 3-9 years in prison these days. Here's yet another story taken from a highly reliable source-we need to share with our listening-audience.--This program includes---1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus -Barna- 32 million Christians unlikely to vote in election, William Tyndale's momentous life - death, Iranian Christian released from prison 5 years early---2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

“By God's grace, I endured a few years in prison in exchange for an eternity with Him.” Ebrahim Firouzi, a Christian convert from Islam, spent seven years in prison in Iran. Now he is enjoying eternity with the Lord, experiencing the fulfillment of that promise following his death in February. This interview was recorded about four years ago—after Ebrahim's release from prison while he was serving out two years of “internal exile,” living in a remote area along the border of Iran and Pakistan. We've chose to re-air it on VOM Radio to commemorate our brother's faithfulness and honor his memory. With the recent death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian in a helicopter crash, this is a particularly strategic time to pray for the nation of Iran. Ebrahim Firouzi was first arrested in 2011 and given a ten-month sentence. After his release, he continued boldly sharing the gospel at every opportunity. He was always looking to bring hope to the people of Iran through sharing the gospel. “My only priority was that people would be able to hear and receive the Word of God.” Firouzi said. He was arrested again in 2013, ultimately serving a total of seven years in prison, followed by two years internal exile, during which time he was required to regularly check in with local police. While he was in prison, the stories and examples of persecuted Iranian Christians before him encouraged and impacted Ebrahim to remain faithful. This interview was originally conducted in Farsi by Joseph Hovsepian, the son of martyred Iranian church leader Haik Hovsepian. We are thankful to Joseph and our friends at for allowing VOM Radio to broadcast this interview and share Ebrahim's testimony. Please pray for pastors and other Christians imprisoned in Iran and other nations. Never miss an episode of VOM Radio! . Or you can listen each week—and get reminders to pray for persecuted Christians—in the for your smartphone or tablet.

Could the recent upheavals in Iran fulfill ancient biblical prophecies? Tune in as Bill Salus  & Tom Hughes talk about an Urgent Prophecy Update, unraveling the connections between today's geopolitical events and the scriptures from Jeremiah 49, Isaiah, Zephaniah, Obadiah, and Psalms. We begin with the stunning news of Raisi's helicopter crash and the subsequent removal of key Iranian leaders, exploring whether these developments signal a divine orchestration. As Iran nears nuclear capability, we examine Israel's strategic military responses and their potential alignment with end-time scenarios.  Iran is ancient Persia & Elam in the Table of Nations in Genesis 10.Drawing insightful parallels between biblical narratives and current events, we discuss the providential nature of these occurrences. By referencing Daniel 2:21, we contemplate divine intervention in the removal of Iranian leaders, akin to the biblical story of Haman's downfall in the Book of Esther. We delve into the notion of retributive justice from Genesis 12, which underscores the principle of blessing those who bless the Jewish people and cursing those who oppose them. This segment also addresses the prophetic destruction of Damascus as predicted in Isaiah 17, and its implications for Israel's future.Our discussion broadens to include the prophecy of Elam and its potential to ignite military conflicts, with a focus on the hopeful outlook of Iranian Christians. We highlight the significant role of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) as prophesied in Zechariah 12 and their divine-supported defense of Jerusalem. The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer for those affected by severe weather, and a commitment for further enlightening conversations with Bill Salus. Join us for this thought-provoking journey through prophecy and current events, as we seek to understand the unfolding of these significant times.Bill Salus DVD Bundle:https://hopeforourtimes.com/product/prophetic-insights-dvd-bundle-the-future-war-prophecies-the-road-to-armageddon/Bill Salus Book Bundle:https://hopeforourtimes.com/product/bill-salus-bundle/http://www.prophecydepotministries.net/bills-articles/Find Us & Follow, Likes n Share helps our Reach.-Amos37 Website-Amos37 on Facebook-Amos37 on Instagram-Amos37 on Rumble-Amos37 on Gettr-Amos37 on Gab-Amos37 on Parler

“By God's grace, I endured a few years in prison in exchange for an eternity with Him.” Ebrahim Firouzi, a Christian convert from Islam, spent seven years in prison in Iran. Now he is enjoying eternity with the Lord, experiencing the fulfillment of that promise following his death in February.   This interview was recorded about four years ago—after Ebrahim's release from prison while he was serving out two years of “internal exile,” living in a remote area along the border of Iran and Pakistan. We've chose to re-air it on VOM Radio to commemorate our brother's faithfulness and honor his memory. With the recent death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian in a helicopter crash, this is a particularly strategic time to pray for the nation of Iran. Ebrahim Firouzi was first arrested in 2011 and given a ten-month sentence. After his release, he continued boldly sharing the gospel at every opportunity. He was always looking to bring hope to the people of Iran through sharing the gospel. “My only priority was that people would be able to hear and receive the Word of God.” Firouzi said. He was arrested again in 2013, ultimately serving a total of seven years in prison, followed by two years internal exile, during which time he was required to regularly check in with local police. While he was in prison, the stories and examples of persecuted Iranian Christians before him encouraged and impacted Ebrahim to remain faithful. This interview was originally conducted in Farsi by Joseph Hovsepian, the son of martyred Iranian church leader Haik Hovsepian. We are thankful to Joseph and our friends at Hovsepian Ministries for allowing VOM Radio to broadcast this interview and share Ebrahim's testimony. Please pray for pastors and other Christians imprisoned in Iran and other nations. Never miss an episode of VOM Radio! Subscribe to the podcast. Or you can listen each week—and get reminders to pray for persecuted Christians—in the VOM App for your smartphone or tablet.

In this podcast episode, learn from Mansour Borji, Founder and President of Article18. Article18 is an organization that advocates for persecuted Iranian Christians and endeavors to see Iran's full compliance with its national and international commitment to religious freedom as defined by Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Our conversation highlights both the difficulties and the courage of Christians living under one of the world's most oppressive regimes. Mansour emphasizes the resilience and faith of these individuals who persist in their religious practices despite significant risks. Article18 aims to foster significant societal change in Iran towards greater tolerance and understanding among all religious groups. Join Article18 in the critical role of international advocacy in securing a safer, freer future for all Iranians, highlighting why defending human rights is not just our responsibility but a necessity.   A previous Unconventional Ministry Podcast episode you will enjoy: Episode #138 Unique Firsthand Perspectives of the Iranian Church with Rev. Tat Stewart. In this episode, listen to Rev. Tat Stewart masterfully and humorously tell the story of how God wove the details of his life together and raised him up to become an influential part of the spiritual awakening in Iran in the 1970s. At a time when few foreigners could observe the impact of the Iranian Revolution, Tat, being no stranger to the people of Iran, was given a unique window to see firsthand how the Gospel spread like wildfire there. Learn how his experience living among Iranians prepared him to be an effective shepherd for a new generation of Iranian Christians as an influential leader and teacher in the Iranian Church. Rev. Tat Stewart recently published his new book "No Stranger: to Iran, its People, and its Church," available on Amazon.

Top headlines for Tuesday, April 23, 2024In today's episode, we start in Arizona, where Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed noteworthy legislation impacting gender identity definitions and religious expression in classrooms. Moving to the Middle East, we hear the compelling story of an Iranian woman converting to Christianity, urging Western Christians to support her homeland through prayer and advocacy. The battle for free speech takes center stage as Elon Musk and his platform X challenge an Australian government demand to remove controversial content, underlining the complexities of digital expression. Finally, we explore Anne Wilson's latest Grammy-nominated album, portraying Christians as societal rebels in a modern context, inspired by the life of Jesus.Subscribe to this PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle PodcastsOvercastFollow Us on Social Media@ChristianPost on TwitterChristian Post on Facebook@ChristianPostIntl on InstagramSubscribe on YouTubeGet the Edifi AppDownload for iPhoneDownload for AndroidSubscribe to Our NewsletterSubscribe to the Freedom Post, delivered every Monday and ThursdayClick here to get the top headlines delivered to your inbox every morning!Links to the NewsAlabama passes 'toughest' anti-trafficking law in the nation | U.S. NewsJack Graham endorses David Allen for SBC president | Church & Ministries NewsArizona gov. vetoes Women's Bill of Rights, Ten Commandments bill | Politics NewsSupreme Court weigh's city's ban on homeless camping | Politics NewsIranian survivor's journey inspires Christian outreach in Iran | World NewsJohn Lindell apologizes for inviting Alex Magala, Mark Driscoll | Church & Ministries NewsElon Musk fights order to remove Australia priest attack video | World NewsAnne Wilson hopes to inspire Christians to be 'rebel' like Jesus | Entertainment News

At the end of World War II, at the Potsdam Conference on July 17, 1945, it was decided how Germany would be divided by the American, British, French, and Soviet Allied leaders. Germany was divided into four zones of occupation to be controlled by the United States, Britain, France, and Communist Russia (the Soviet Union). The city of Berlin was split up by the four powers even though it was located within the zone controlled by Russia. Because West Berlin was formed by the American, British, and French sectors, East Berlin would be marked by its stark ideological differences shaped by communism because of its control under the Soviet Union. In 1949, Germany split into two independent nations known as the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) as a democracy in stark contrast to the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) that was marked by the communism of the Soviet Union. In 1952, the East German government closed its border with West Germany; to keep people from escaping East Germany to the West, a wire barrier was constructed around West Berlin on August 12-13, 1961, with the plan to build a permanent wall designed to divide neighborhoods, separate families, and keep any influence of a freedom loving West from a restrictive and oppressive East. The Berlin Wall would eventually grow into two walls measuring 96 miles long and 13 feet tall. Anyone who attempted to gain freedom from East Berlin by entering West Berlin was shot. By 1989, more than 100 people died trying to cross the Berlin Wall and hundreds more who tried to escape from East to West. There were 302 watchtowers along the 96-mile-long wall that separated the free from the burdened. On June 12, 1987, President Ronald Regan delivered a speech in West Berlin, a speech I remember well when I heard as it aired on television when I was only 13 years old. President Regans speech has been nicknamed the Tear Down This Wall speech from a line in his magnificent speech; I want you to hear just a sampling of this marvelous and important speech for a reason that will become clear in this sermon: Behind me stands a wall that encircles the free sectors of this city, part of a vast system of barriers that divides the entire continent of Europe. From the Baltic, south, those barriers cut across Germany in a gash of barbed wire, concrete, dog runs, and guard towers. Farther south, there may be no visible, no obvious wall. But there remain armed guards and checkpoints all the same still a restriction on the right to travel, still an instrument to impose upon ordinary men and women the will of a totalitarian state. Yet it is here in Berlin where the wall emerges most clearly; here, cutting across your city, where the news photo and the television screen have imprinted this brutal division of a continent upon the mind of the world. Standing before the Brandenburg Gate, every man is a German, separated from his fellow men. Every man is a Berliner, forced to look upon a scar. As long as this gate is closed, as long as this scar of a wall is permitted to stand, it is not the German question alone that remains open, but the question of freedom for all mankind. General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization, come here to this gate.Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate!Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall! On November 9, 1989, Germans from the East and West gathered and began tearing the Berlin Wall down. On October 3, 1990, East Germany and West Germany were no more; Germany was reunited as one free nation. The Christian Has Been Brought Near to God (vv. 11-13) There are four things that were true of the Christians in Ephesus; these four things are true of you if you are now a Christian; these same four things are still true of you if you are not a Christian. Because most of you in this room are Christians, I will refer to these four truths as something that once was true of you. You at one time were Christless (vv. 11-12a). There were two types of people in Ephesus and in the world: the Uncircumcision and the Circumcision. The Uncircumcision were the Gentiles in the world while the Circumcision were the Jews who prided themselves on being the physical descendants of Abraham. The Uncircumcised Gentiles were convinced that they were very different than the Circumcised Jews, and the Jews felt the same way about the Gentiles. However, there were two things that these two groups did share in common: Both groups believed that so long as they were religious enough, they would be prepared for what comes after death, and both groups were dead in their sins because both were Christless. You were homeless (v. 12b). What I mean by homeless is that the Jews had known about and looked forward to the promises of God made to the descendants of Abraham. For example, when God called Abraham out of the city of Ur, He made the following promise to both him and his wife, Sarah: Go from your country, And from your relatives And from your fathers house, To the land which I will show you; And I will make you into a great nation, And I will bless you, And make your name great; And you shall be a blessing; And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed (Gen. 12:1-3). The Jews had grown to assume that the promise was not for Gentiles and failed to realize that it would be through the Jewish people that the Gentile nations would experience the blessing made to Abraham. It was not that the promises were not for the nations also, but that the Gentiles were not aware of such promises. You were hopeless (v. 12c). What were the promises given to the Jews really for? They were promises concerning Gods plan to redeem Adams fallen race. Think about the promises made to the Jews for a moment! How would all the families of the earth be blessed? The Child promised in Isaiah 9:6-7 would be Jewish and would come through Israel, and this promise is for the nations: For a Child will be born to us, a Son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of armies will accomplish this. So how were the Gentiles in Ephesus without hope? They were without hope because unlike the Jews, they were unaware that unlike emperor Nero of Rome who was reigning at the time Ephesians was written, there was coming a true and better King who would do what Rome could never do: There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace on the throne of David to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. For the Gentiles, Rome was as good as it would get is the same way that many today believe that life before death is as good as it will ever get, which is pretty hopeless! You were godless (v. 12d). Finally, the gentiles were godless in the sense that they were left to their idols because they did not know God. This does not mean that the Jews were not godless either, for if they were without Christ, then they were also Godless. To be Godless is to be without God. Do you know what happens when you are Godless? You will find a way to place an idol in the place only God was meant to reside in your life. You will find something that promises the sort of things that only a real God can give and provide; such as joy, satisfaction, contentment, meaning, and purpose to your life and you will be robed of the very things that idols promise to give. The God whose image you bear is the only being who can provide lasting joy, satisfaction, contentment, meaning, and purpose to your life. If you are a Christian, you are no longer Christless. Because you are no longer Christless, you belong to the people of God and are no longer homeless when it comes to the promises of God. Because you are now the recipient of the promises of God through Jesus, you are no longer hopeless. Because your hope rests in Jesus for your salvation, Paul declares: Now in Christ Jesus you who previously were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ (v. 13). The Christian Has the Peace of God (vv. 14-18) Gods plan for the salvation of sinners always included Gentiles. Before instructions for the construction of a temple that would serve as the center of worship for Israel where the presence of God would be experienced by His people, God instructed Israel: Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel (Exod. 19:5-6). In other words, Israel was commissioned to be Gods priests before the nations to lead the nations to God. Through the prophet Malachi, as He did throughout Israels history, God reminded His people that the redemption of the nations was always the plan: For from the rising of the sun even to its setting, My name shall be great among the nations, and in every place frankincense is going to be offered to My name, and a grain offering that is pure; for My name shall be great among the nations, says the Lord of armies ( Mal. 1:11). So, what is this dividing wall the apostle Paul refers to in verse 14? The temple that King Herod built for the Jews included a place known as, The Court of the Gentiles. The Court of the Gentiles was the place within the Temple Walls that allowed Gentiles to gather and worship the God of the Hebrews, but they were forbidden to go any further than the outer court because they were considered too dirty to come any closer to the inner courts, only the true Jew was permitted to into the holier place that was closest to the Holy of Holies where the presence of God was. There was a wall that stood about 4.5 feet high that separated the Court of the Gentiles from the inner courts and signs that were posted that stated in Greek: No foreigner may enter within the balustrade around the sanctuary and the enclosure. Whoever is caught, on himself shall he put blame for the death which will ensue.[1] The Court of the Gentiles is also the place where Jesus taught while in the Temple (Matt. 21:23; 26:55; Luke 19:47; John 7:14). The Court of the Gentiles is also the place where money was changed because the required coinage for people to use for the Temple tax had to be Tyrian shekels (aka the shekel of the sanctuary) because of the uneven value of other coinages and the idolatrous images on other coins. During Passover, it is estimated that over 200,000 lambs were sacrificed for the sins of the people; the Court of the Gentiles was the place where people could purchase their sacrifice. The Court of the Gentiles was where the money was made and exchanged, and for many, became more important than worship itself. The Court of the Gentiles was not in the original plans God gave His people for the Temple (see Numbers 15:14-15), nor were they ever a part of Gods plans for the place where His people would worship Him. Here is what Isaiah said of the place of Gods worship: Also the foreigners who join themselves to the Lord, to attend to His service and to love the name of the Lord, to be His servants, every one who keeps the Sabbath so as not to profane it, And holds firmly to My covenant; Even those I will bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be acceptable on My altar; for My house will be called a house of prayer for all the peoples. It was the Court of the Gentiles that Jesus entered into during Passover week before He would die on the Cross as the perfect and true Lamb of God, and was enraged over the way Israel had perverted the Temple: And He entered the temple area and began to drive out those who were selling and buying on the temple grounds, and He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves; and He would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple grounds. And He began to teach and say to them, Is it not written: my house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations? But you have made it a den of robbers. (Mark 11:15-17). They crucified Jesus because the Jews who were convinced that their religion was enough, but what Israel failed to see was that their problem was the same as the problem of the Gentiles. There exists before all of humanity a far greater wall than the one that separated the Gentiles from the Jews in the Temple! It is a wall that only One Lamb can remedy and of all the peoples of the nations that should have known that such a wall exists, it should have been those who had before them from the commandments, writings, and the prophets, the covenants of the promise (v. 12). The wall is greater than any other wall, for it is the great wall of mankinds sin and guilt before a Holy God and there is nothing that the Jews or the Gentiles could do to tear it down, nor is there anything that you and I can do to remove the wall. For the Jew, the Law simply pointed to the wall of our own sin and that there is only One who is able to tear down the wall (see Gal. 3:23-29). Jesus tore down the wall by going to the Cross, He redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us (Ga. 3:13). It is only through the blood He shed for sins we are guilty of that, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings (Eph. 1:7). The wall was our sin, the hostility was ours before a Holy God, and our only hope for a peace with Him was and is the Prince of Peace! This is why Paul wrote, For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, by abolishing in His flesh the hostility, which is the Law composed of commandments expressed in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two one new person, in this way establishing peace (vv. 14-15). How did He do it? Through His cross: and that He might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the hostility (v. 16). Conclusion Through Christ, the wall that alienated and separated us from any hope of knowing God or being known by God was blown to ashes through the Cross! The Christian, regardless of culture, skin color, or language, is now reconciled to the One whose image we all bearHe is our peace! Christian, because the wall of your sin was torn down by the Lamb of God, you share the same thing that the Chinese Christian, the Korean Christian, the Indian Christian, the Burmese Christian, the Iranian Christian, the Sudanese Christian, the Canadian Christian, and the Mexican Christian all have that you now have through Jesus Christ: Access in one Spirit to the Father through the Son! What better news could there possibly be than what we read in these verses: For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, by abolishing in His flesh the hostility, which is the Law composed of commandments expressed in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two one new person, in this way establishing peace; and that He might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the hostility. And He came and preached peace to you who were far away, and peace to those who were near; for through Him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father. Regardless of your ethnicity, the thing that you share with every other Christian rescued, ransomed, and redeemed by the blood of Jesus is that we now belong to His Tribe and our colors are the same because we are covered by the blood of the perfect Lamb of God! To be a Christian is to be the Church, and to be the Church is to be the People of God! Your identity is no longer in the nation you live, the color of your skin, the language you speak, or the culture that has shaped and formed you. No! Your identity is now in Christ! If you are not a Christian, the great wall of your sin still stands, and your greatest need remains! There is only One who is able to remove the wall of your sin, so why wait any longer to be reconciled to God through the blood of the Lamb of God? [1] One such sign is on display at the Israel Museum and a second in the Istanbul Archaeology Museum.

At the end of World War II, at the Potsdam Conference on July 17, 1945, it was decided how Germany would be divided by the American, British, French, and Soviet Allied leaders. Germany was divided into four zones of occupation to be controlled by the United States, Britain, France, and Communist Russia (the Soviet Union). The city of Berlin was split up by the four powers even though it was located within the zone controlled by Russia. Because West Berlin was formed by the American, British, and French sectors, East Berlin would be marked by its stark ideological differences shaped by communism because of its control under the Soviet Union. In 1949, Germany split into two independent nations known as the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany) as a democracy in stark contrast to the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) that was marked by the communism of the Soviet Union. In 1952, the East German government closed its border with West Germany; to keep people from escaping East Germany to the West, a wire barrier was constructed around West Berlin on August 12-13, 1961, with the plan to build a permanent wall designed to divide neighborhoods, separate families, and keep any influence of a freedom loving West from a restrictive and oppressive East. The Berlin Wall would eventually grow into two walls measuring 96 miles long and 13 feet tall. Anyone who attempted to gain freedom from East Berlin by entering West Berlin was shot. By 1989, more than 100 people died trying to cross the Berlin Wall and hundreds more who tried to escape from East to West. There were 302 watchtowers along the 96-mile-long wall that separated the free from the burdened. On June 12, 1987, President Ronald Regan delivered a speech in West Berlin, a speech I remember well when I heard as it aired on television when I was only 13 years old. President Regans speech has been nicknamed the Tear Down This Wall speech from a line in his magnificent speech; I want you to hear just a sampling of this marvelous and important speech for a reason that will become clear in this sermon: Behind me stands a wall that encircles the free sectors of this city, part of a vast system of barriers that divides the entire continent of Europe. From the Baltic, south, those barriers cut across Germany in a gash of barbed wire, concrete, dog runs, and guard towers. Farther south, there may be no visible, no obvious wall. But there remain armed guards and checkpoints all the same still a restriction on the right to travel, still an instrument to impose upon ordinary men and women the will of a totalitarian state. Yet it is here in Berlin where the wall emerges most clearly; here, cutting across your city, where the news photo and the television screen have imprinted this brutal division of a continent upon the mind of the world. Standing before the Brandenburg Gate, every man is a German, separated from his fellow men. Every man is a Berliner, forced to look upon a scar. As long as this gate is closed, as long as this scar of a wall is permitted to stand, it is not the German question alone that remains open, but the question of freedom for all mankind. General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization, come here to this gate.Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate!Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall! On November 9, 1989, Germans from the East and West gathered and began tearing the Berlin Wall down. On October 3, 1990, East Germany and West Germany were no more; Germany was reunited as one free nation. The Christian Has Been Brought Near to God (vv. 11-13) There are four things that were true of the Christians in Ephesus; these four things are true of you if you are now a Christian; these same four things are still true of you if you are not a Christian. Because most of you in this room are Christians, I will refer to these four truths as something that once was true of you. You at one time were Christless (vv. 11-12a). There were two types of people in Ephesus and in the world: the Uncircumcision and the Circumcision. The Uncircumcision were the Gentiles in the world while the Circumcision were the Jews who prided themselves on being the physical descendants of Abraham. The Uncircumcised Gentiles were convinced that they were very different than the Circumcised Jews, and the Jews felt the same way about the Gentiles. However, there were two things that these two groups did share in common: Both groups believed that so long as they were religious enough, they would be prepared for what comes after death, and both groups were dead in their sins because both were Christless. You were homeless (v. 12b). What I mean by homeless is that the Jews had known about and looked forward to the promises of God made to the descendants of Abraham. For example, when God called Abraham out of the city of Ur, He made the following promise to both him and his wife, Sarah: Go from your country, And from your relatives And from your fathers house, To the land which I will show you; And I will make you into a great nation, And I will bless you, And make your name great; And you shall be a blessing; And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed (Gen. 12:1-3). The Jews had grown to assume that the promise was not for Gentiles and failed to realize that it would be through the Jewish people that the Gentile nations would experience the blessing made to Abraham. It was not that the promises were not for the nations also, but that the Gentiles were not aware of such promises. You were hopeless (v. 12c). What were the promises given to the Jews really for? They were promises concerning Gods plan to redeem Adams fallen race. Think about the promises made to the Jews for a moment! How would all the families of the earth be blessed? The Child promised in Isaiah 9:6-7 would be Jewish and would come through Israel, and this promise is for the nations: For a Child will be born to us, a Son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of armies will accomplish this. So how were the Gentiles in Ephesus without hope? They were without hope because unlike the Jews, they were unaware that unlike emperor Nero of Rome who was reigning at the time Ephesians was written, there was coming a true and better King who would do what Rome could never do: There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace on the throne of David to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. For the Gentiles, Rome was as good as it would get is the same way that many today believe that life before death is as good as it will ever get, which is pretty hopeless! You were godless (v. 12d). Finally, the gentiles were godless in the sense that they were left to their idols because they did not know God. This does not mean that the Jews were not godless either, for if they were without Christ, then they were also Godless. To be Godless is to be without God. Do you know what happens when you are Godless? You will find a way to place an idol in the place only God was meant to reside in your life. You will find something that promises the sort of things that only a real God can give and provide; such as joy, satisfaction, contentment, meaning, and purpose to your life and you will be robed of the very things that idols promise to give. The God whose image you bear is the only being who can provide lasting joy, satisfaction, contentment, meaning, and purpose to your life. If you are a Christian, you are no longer Christless. Because you are no longer Christless, you belong to the people of God and are no longer homeless when it comes to the promises of God. Because you are now the recipient of the promises of God through Jesus, you are no longer hopeless. Because your hope rests in Jesus for your salvation, Paul declares: Now in Christ Jesus you who previously were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ (v. 13). The Christian Has the Peace of God (vv. 14-18) Gods plan for the salvation of sinners always included Gentiles. Before instructions for the construction of a temple that would serve as the center of worship for Israel where the presence of God would be experienced by His people, God instructed Israel: Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel (Exod. 19:5-6). In other words, Israel was commissioned to be Gods priests before the nations to lead the nations to God. Through the prophet Malachi, as He did throughout Israels history, God reminded His people that the redemption of the nations was always the plan: For from the rising of the sun even to its setting, My name shall be great among the nations, and in every place frankincense is going to be offered to My name, and a grain offering that is pure; for My name shall be great among the nations, says the Lord of armies ( Mal. 1:11). So, what is this dividing wall the apostle Paul refers to in verse 14? The temple that King Herod built for the Jews included a place known as, The Court of the Gentiles. The Court of the Gentiles was the place within the Temple Walls that allowed Gentiles to gather and worship the God of the Hebrews, but they were forbidden to go any further than the outer court because they were considered too dirty to come any closer to the inner courts, only the true Jew was permitted to into the holier place that was closest to the Holy of Holies where the presence of God was. There was a wall that stood about 4.5 feet high that separated the Court of the Gentiles from the inner courts and signs that were posted that stated in Greek: No foreigner may enter within the balustrade around the sanctuary and the enclosure. Whoever is caught, on himself shall he put blame for the death which will ensue.[1] The Court of the Gentiles is also the place where Jesus taught while in the Temple (Matt. 21:23; 26:55; Luke 19:47; John 7:14). The Court of the Gentiles is also the place where money was changed because the required coinage for people to use for the Temple tax had to be Tyrian shekels (aka the shekel of the sanctuary) because of the uneven value of other coinages and the idolatrous images on other coins. During Passover, it is estimated that over 200,000 lambs were sacrificed for the sins of the people; the Court of the Gentiles was the place where people could purchase their sacrifice. The Court of the Gentiles was where the money was made and exchanged, and for many, became more important than worship itself. The Court of the Gentiles was not in the original plans God gave His people for the Temple (see Numbers 15:14-15), nor were they ever a part of Gods plans for the place where His people would worship Him. Here is what Isaiah said of the place of Gods worship: Also the foreigners who join themselves to the Lord, to attend to His service and to love the name of the Lord, to be His servants, every one who keeps the Sabbath so as not to profane it, And holds firmly to My covenant; Even those I will bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be acceptable on My altar; for My house will be called a house of prayer for all the peoples. It was the Court of the Gentiles that Jesus entered into during Passover week before He would die on the Cross as the perfect and true Lamb of God, and was enraged over the way Israel had perverted the Temple: And He entered the temple area and began to drive out those who were selling and buying on the temple grounds, and He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves; and He would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple grounds. And He began to teach and say to them, Is it not written: my house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations? But you have made it a den of robbers. (Mark 11:15-17). They crucified Jesus because the Jews who were convinced that their religion was enough, but what Israel failed to see was that their problem was the same as the problem of the Gentiles. There exists before all of humanity a far greater wall than the one that separated the Gentiles from the Jews in the Temple! It is a wall that only One Lamb can remedy and of all the peoples of the nations that should have known that such a wall exists, it should have been those who had before them from the commandments, writings, and the prophets, the covenants of the promise (v. 12). The wall is greater than any other wall, for it is the great wall of mankinds sin and guilt before a Holy God and there is nothing that the Jews or the Gentiles could do to tear it down, nor is there anything that you and I can do to remove the wall. For the Jew, the Law simply pointed to the wall of our own sin and that there is only One who is able to tear down the wall (see Gal. 3:23-29). Jesus tore down the wall by going to the Cross, He redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us (Ga. 3:13). It is only through the blood He shed for sins we are guilty of that, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings (Eph. 1:7). The wall was our sin, the hostility was ours before a Holy God, and our only hope for a peace with Him was and is the Prince of Peace! This is why Paul wrote, For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, by abolishing in His flesh the hostility, which is the Law composed of commandments expressed in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two one new person, in this way establishing peace (vv. 14-15). How did He do it? Through His cross: and that He might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the hostility (v. 16). Conclusion Through Christ, the wall that alienated and separated us from any hope of knowing God or being known by God was blown to ashes through the Cross! The Christian, regardless of culture, skin color, or language, is now reconciled to the One whose image we all bearHe is our peace! Christian, because the wall of your sin was torn down by the Lamb of God, you share the same thing that the Chinese Christian, the Korean Christian, the Indian Christian, the Burmese Christian, the Iranian Christian, the Sudanese Christian, the Canadian Christian, and the Mexican Christian all have that you now have through Jesus Christ: Access in one Spirit to the Father through the Son! What better news could there possibly be than what we read in these verses: For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, by abolishing in His flesh the hostility, which is the Law composed of commandments expressed in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two one new person, in this way establishing peace; and that He might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the hostility. And He came and preached peace to you who were far away, and peace to those who were near; for through Him we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father. Regardless of your ethnicity, the thing that you share with every other Christian rescued, ransomed, and redeemed by the blood of Jesus is that we now belong to His Tribe and our colors are the same because we are covered by the blood of the perfect Lamb of God! To be a Christian is to be the Church, and to be the Church is to be the People of God! Your identity is no longer in the nation you live, the color of your skin, the language you speak, or the culture that has shaped and formed you. No! Your identity is now in Christ! If you are not a Christian, the great wall of your sin still stands, and your greatest need remains! There is only One who is able to remove the wall of your sin, so why wait any longer to be reconciled to God through the blood of the Lamb of God? [1] One such sign is on display at the Israel Museum and a second in the Istanbul Archaeology Museum.

Not enough wolves in the world, or not enough babies? Which is it? Governments are paying $50,000 for anybody who will help them lead to the arrest of guys who kill wolves, but no reward only for abortionists as yet.  Then, companies in South Korea are offering $75,000 to workers with the fortitude to have a baby. This program includes: 1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus (New “Jesus Saves Us” ads vs. “Jesus Gets Us” ads, 166 Iranian Christians arrested, How 7 American companies have saved the stock market) 2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

It's Tuesday, February 20th, AD 2024. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson 166 Iranian Christians arrested A joint report issued by Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Open Doors, and Middle East Concern on persecution in Iran documented 166 arrests in 2023. That's up from 134 in 2022. At least one-third of the arrests have to do with the possession of multiple Bibles. Seventeen Christians have received prison sentences up to five years or have been subjected to fines or flogging.   One Christian convert testified to his torture. He was violently punched and kicked, and subjected to “a lot of mental and emotional torture.”   They threatened harm and indecent treatment of his wife and children. Churches which were once allowed to operate in public have been permanently closed by the state. Overall, the study indicates that Rights Violations in Iran have doubled since 2015. In Romans 8:35-37, the Apostle Paul encourages those who suffer for the faith. He asked, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?  As it is written: ‘For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.' Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." America's fluctuating inflation A respite in inflation has only been temporary in the United States.   The Producer Price Index popped up to 7.1% annualized January, reports Wolf Street.  And the consumer services sector was up 12.7% on the annualized basis. The indexes have been moving around 3-4% for the last six to nine months. How 7 American companies have saved the stock market Only seven companies out of 60,000 publicly owned companies have contributed to the vast improvement in the stock market indices over the last year.   The "Magnificent Seven" tech stocks — Apple (AAPL), Alphabet (GOOGL, GOOG), Microsoft (MSFT), Amazon (AMZN), Meta (META), Tesla (TSLA), and Nvidia (NVDA) improved their stock value by 71%, compared to only 6% for the remaining 493 companies in the Fortune 500 list, reports Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research. The Magnificent Seven added a total of $5.117 trillion in market capitalization by people investing more money into their stock in 2023 while the entire S&P 500 companies altogether added $6.502 trillion. New “Jesus Saves Us” ads contrast with “Jesus Gets Us” ads You've gotta see this. There's another ad campaign to compete with the Jesus Gets Us campaign featured on the Super Bowl broadcasts, reports The Washington Stand. Former gang leader Jamie Bambrick has released his own “Jesus Saves Us” campaign which is already netting millions of downloads through X and YouTube. Featuring pictures of a former lesbian, a former abortionist, a former drug addict, a former witch, a former right hand man to atheist Richard Dawkins, the video points out that “Jesus doesn't just get us. He saves us, redeems us, forgives us, heals us, delivers us, and loves us.” Described as the Christian Super Bowl ad they should have made, you can watch it through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. These days Jamie Bambrick is an assistant pastor of an Evangelical church in Northern Ireland. Drug overdose deaths in Oregon doubled Drug overdose deaths in Oregon have doubled since 2019 following the passage of a ballot measure to legalize virtually all drugs for personal use, reports Reuters. Measure 110 had passed by a 58%-42% majority.   But now, an Emerson College survey finds that 56% of Oregonians support a total repeal of Measure 110! The slipping economies and fertility rates of Japan and America What used to be the second largest economy in the world has slipped to fourth place.  Japan is officially in recession after a double quarter slippage of 3.3% and 0.4% negative Gross Domestic Product growth. Japan's Debt to GDP ratio increased from 50% to 260% since 1980.   Japan has also led the birth dearth in the world — with the fertility rate lowering from 4.0 to 1.37 since World War II. Meanwhile, the U.S. Debt to GDP ratio increased from 32% to 120% over the same timeframe. The U.S. fertility rate has dropped from 3.6 to 1.66 over the same period of time. Argentina's new monthly surplus On the other side of the world, the Argentine government saw its first monthly budget surplus in almost 12 years ascribed to the spending cuts of the nation's new President Javier Milei. Meanwhile, the Argentine Catholic University reports that 57% of the nations' population has hit poverty levels. That's the worst economic condition in 20 years. Worldwide longevity rising And finally, here's some good news!   The worldwide average lifespan has vastly improved since 1971, from 58 years to 71 years. For example, Bangladesh claimed a life expectancy of only 26 years in 1971. Today that's improved to 72 years of age! There have also been huge improvements in life expectancy in Bhutan, Mali, Niger, Algeria, Guatemala, El Salvador, Bolivia, and Portugal. Proverbs 9:10-12 speaks of wisdom this way — “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For by me your days will be multiplied, and years of life will be added to you.” Close And that's The Worldview in 5 Minutes on this Tuesday, February 20th in the year of our Lord 2024. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com).  Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Not enough wolves in the world, or not enough babies-- Which is it---Governments are paying -50,000 for anybody who will help them lead to the arrest of guys who kill wolves, but no reward only for abortionists as yet.--Then, companies in South Korea are offering -75,000 to workers with the fortitude to have a baby. --This program includes---1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus -New -Jesus Saves Us- ads vs. -Jesus Gets Us- ads, 166 Iranian Christians arrested, How 7 American companies have saved the stock market---2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

On today's Quick Start podcast: NEWS: Iranian Christians Arrested for 'Propaganda Against the State', Osteen Addresses Church After Shooting, Pakistan Man Charged With Blasphemy Against Muhammed MAIN THING: Greg Laurie INTERVIEW LAST THING: Romans 15 SHOW LINKS CBN's 2024 Campaign Notebook CLICK HERE!! Listen and SUBSCRIBE to CBN's Newsmakers podcast HERE Listen and SUBSCRIBE to CBN's DC Debrief Podcast HERE Subscribe to the CBN News YouTube Channel! CBN News https://www2.cbn.com/news Faithwire https://www.faithwire.com/ Email us! QuickStartPodcast@cbn.org

UPDATE: Indian tribes did NOT want William Penn's statue removed — they LIKED him. It's Biden against ALL AmericansAs people argue over sports mascots, the billionaire class continues to rob everyone blind over the MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR STADIUMS we're forced to pay forMainstream media searches for novel ways to dispose of the explosion of used wind turbine blades that CAN'T BE REUSED. A massive monument to government's green folly as massive new wind projects are folding within months of being given the green light. And, the naked lies about temperature trends exposed in a couple of chartsCanadian Premier NULLIFIES Trudeau's Carbon Tax on Natural Gas This is essential to stopping their plans. EV Mania Hurts Hertz Hertz dumps 20,000 of their 50,000 at huge loss — here's why. And it's not just a fire sale but literal fires. London EV bus catches fire in London. So much for Sadiq Khan's ZERO EMISSIONS. Lots of TOXIC smoke. And CO2 COMES TO THE RESCUE to stop ship on fire from sinkingFAUX News Town Hall builds up Trump as DeSantis & Haley wag their fingers at each other4D Chess: Trump takes sole credit for Roe v Wade, but then says it's not a good thing and we don't want to be "too harsh" in protecting babies from being ripped limb from limbFrancis Collins starts to apologize for the damage he did, but then makes HIMSELF the VICTIMTrump's False Prophets, Satan's ApprenticesHow many "thus saith the Lord" mulligans do you get?How do the "prosperity gospel" pastors surrounding Trump explain the Iranian Christians being jailed for years? Do the house church Iranians not have enough faith?The love of money is the root of all evil, and their love of prosperity is evil, not good news Gerald Celente — Trends for 2024 Fasten your seatbelts! Gerald Celente, TrendsJournal.com, joins with the trends he sees coming in 2024.For 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to TrendsJournal.com and enter the code KNIGHTFind out more about the show and where you can watch it at TheDavidKnightShow.comIf you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-showOr you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Money is only what YOU hold: Go to DavidKnight.gold for great deals on physical gold/silver

UPDATE: Indian tribes did NOT want William Penn's statue removed — they LIKED him. It's Biden against ALL AmericansAs people argue over sports mascots, the billionaire class continues to rob everyone blind over the MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR STADIUMS we're forced to pay forMainstream media searches for novel ways to dispose of the explosion of used wind turbine blades that CAN'T BE REUSED. A massive monument to government's green folly as massive new wind projects are folding within months of being given the green light. And, the naked lies about temperature trends exposed in a couple of chartsCanadian Premier NULLIFIES Trudeau's Carbon Tax on Natural Gas This is essential to stopping their plans. EV Mania Hurts Hertz Hertz dumps 20,000 of their 50,000 at huge loss — here's why. And it's not just a fire sale but literal fires. London EV bus catches fire in London. So much for Sadiq Khan's ZERO EMISSIONS. Lots of TOXIC smoke. And CO2 COMES TO THE RESCUE to stop ship on fire from sinkingFAUX News Town Hall builds up Trump as DeSantis & Haley wag their fingers at each other4D Chess: Trump takes sole credit for Roe v Wade, but then says it's not a good thing and we don't want to be "too harsh" in protecting babies from being ripped limb from limbFrancis Collins starts to apologize for the damage he did, but then makes HIMSELF the VICTIMTrump's False Prophets, Satan's ApprenticesHow many "thus saith the Lord" mulligans do you get?How do the "prosperity gospel" pastors surrounding Trump explain the Iranian Christians being jailed for years? Do the house church Iranians not have enough faith?The love of money is the root of all evil, and their love of prosperity is evil, not good news Gerald Celente — Trends for 2024 Fasten your seatbelts! Gerald Celente, TrendsJournal.com, joins with the trends he sees coming in 2024.For 10% off Gerald Celente's prescient Trends Journal, go to TrendsJournal.com and enter the code KNIGHTFind out more about the show and where you can watch it at TheDavidKnightShow.comIf you would like to support the show and our family please consider subscribing monthly here: SubscribeStar https://www.subscribestar.com/the-david-knight-showOr you can send a donation throughMail: David Knight POB 994 Kodak, TN 37764Zelle: @DavidKnightShow@protonmail.comCash App at: $davidknightshowBTC to: bc1qkuec29hkuye4xse9unh7nptvu3y9qmv24vanh7Money is only what YOU hold: Go to DavidKnight.gold for great deals on physical gold/silver

In this third episode of our “Many Threads/One Tapestry” series, Hannah has a conversation with Hessam, a well-respected pastor and teacher in the Iranian church who has been a follower of Jesus for 40 years. Years after his life was transformed by the Gospel, Hessam continues to train and equip the next generation of leaders in the Iranian church.For more information about the recent history and incredible growth of the Iranian church, please visit elam.com/iran-story.And for more information about our organization, please visit elam.com.

On today's Quick Start podcast: NEWS: Iranian Christian Warns Americans, Manchin Won't Seek Re-Election MAIN THING: AP Photog With Hamas Oct 7 Under Scrutiny LAST THING: Proverbs 12:25 SHOW LINKS: CBN News https://www2.cbn.com/news Faithwire https://www.faithwire.com/ CBN News YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@CBNnewsonline Email us! QuickStartPodcast@cbn.org

In this episode, listen to Rev. Tat Stewart masterfully and humorously tell the story of how God wove the details of his life together and raised him up to become an influential part of the spiritual awakening in Iran in the 1970s. At a time when few foreigners could observe the impact of the Iranian Revolution, Tat, being no stranger to the people of Iran, was given a unique window to see firsthand how the Gospel spread like wildfire there. Learn how his experience of living among Iranians prepared him to be an effective shepherd for a whole new generation of Iranian Christians as an influential leader and teacher in the Iranian Church. Rev. Tat Stewart recently published his new book "No Stranger: to Iran, its People, and its Church," available on Amazon. Rev. Stewart has a weekly Farsi language program, answering viewers' questions on the SAT-7 PARS Farsi satellite channel. Rev Stewart is also the Founder and Editor of SHABAN MAGAZINE, a Farsi pastoral journal for Farsi-speaking ministers. You can reach Rev. Tat Stewart through his email tatstewart@comcast.net. Recent Unconventional Ministry podcast episodes you will enjoy:  S4 EP #131 The Social Media Phenomenon in the Asbury 2023 Revival - Dr. Mark Elliot. Hear Dr. Mark Elliot's firsthand perspectives on what he personally observed and learned during the Asbury University revival in February 2023. Learn about the social media phenomenon that was unique in the Asbury 2023 Revival. S4 EP #134 Empowering Women in International Ministry - CJ Callahan. In this episode, a volunteer worship leader with Thrive Ministry discusses the purpose and unique aspects of the organization. Thrive Ministry aims to provide spiritual resources and support for North American women doing ministry overseas. CJ shares her personal experience as a worship leader at these retreats and highlights how they have positively impacted the missionary women.    

Rev. Dr. Mehrdad Fatehi is the Founder and Executive Director of Pars Theological Center, a pastor, professor, and prolific writer. After fleeing Iran in the 1980's, Mehrdad has given his life for the education and equipping of Iranian Christian leaders through innovative and creative methods. Mehrdad has authored three books, more than 35 articles, translated 7 theological textbooks, and has countless other contributions to education and equipping Iranian Christians around the world. For more about PARS Theological Center: https://parstheology.org To support a PARS Student specifically or the ministry generally: https://parstheology.org/region-selector/

This September 11th, we honored the memory of that day in 2001 when America had its big wake-up call as to the fact that yes, Islamic terrorism, can come to our shores.  But more than anything, we are testified to the power of God to redeem and turn everything around, and that the Gospel IS the solution to radical Islam!   Our guest for the hour, former Muslim and hopeful jihadist Mohamad Faridi, President of Iranian Christians International, shares his testimony, discusses 9-11 from a Persian perspective, including what lessons American should learn from it, and discusses the ministry work of Iranian Christians International. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Joe sits down with David Yeghnazar, Executive Director of Elam Ministries, to talk about the recent growth of the Iran church and the lessons the global church can learn from what God is doing among Iranian Christians today. They also share compelling testimonies of ordinary Iranians being transformed by the Gospel and going on to impact the Iran region through evangelism, discipleship and church planting.

Episode 196 - Matthew Joudeh hosts an LGBTQ+ panel of Assyrians who openly share their unique experiences of being members of the LGBTQ+ community. Matthew leads the discussion, providing a safe space for these individuals to express their stories, challenges, and triumphs. Join us as we delve into the intersectionality of their Assyrian heritage and LGBTQ+ identities, fostering understanding, empathy, and unity within our community. This powerful episode aims to amplify voices and promote inclusivity, creating a platform for diverse narratives to be heard. Matthew Joudeh, born and raised in Turlock, Ca! Working and a full time student, at CSU Stanislaus! In this episode we discuss the importance of being an Assyrian LGBTQ ally and also the struggles that some of us have faced during the process of finding ourselves and coming out!  Rhoda Nazanin is an Assyrian Christian born in Isfahan, Iran. She immigrated to Los Angeles, CA with her family in 1993. After living in LA for 29 years, Rhoda moved to St. Louis, MO with her wife, Sarah in spring of 2022. Rhoda is a former Assembly of God pastor and congressional candidate for CA's 27th district.  Andre Shamoon is an Assyrian catholic born and raised in Turlock Ca. He is a proud transman who loves to spend time with family and friends or go to the gym!  Yeshua (ܝܫܘܥ) is a standup comedian living in New York City. He LOVES talking about being Assyrian to anyone and everyone. He talks about being Assyrian and Gay in his standup, hoping it will bring awareness of his Assyrian culture to the world; and to Assyrians, unity within the culture. Yeshua grew up in Turlock, CA and studied at UC Berkeley. Above all else, he loves proving to anyone that the singular strongest common bond every single culture on earth shares is diversity. And, indeed, diversity is God's work, and if you protest God's work then you are saying you know better than God. And you do not. Chris is an out and proud Assyrian from Chicago who currently lives in LA. A passionate cook, everyone Chris befriends is immediately force fed dolma and rice. As an actor, he loves turning Middle Eastern stereotypes on their heads with his web series @WahabbiBobbi. He's thrilled to have participated in this conversation and to connect with other queer Assyrians.  Bernadet Yaghobian is an Assyrian, Armenian, Iranian Christian. She was born in Iran and immigrated to California in 2000. She's a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has a private practice and also works at a non-profit, providing mental health services to unhoused population. She also has an unconditional love for elephants.  

On today's Quick Start podcast:NEWS: Russian mutiny halted, Iranian Christian awakening, and the search for the wreckage of Ocean Gate's Titan submersible continues.MAIN THING: How should Christians handle artificial intelligence? CBN's Madison Seals explores.LAST THING: Matthew 24:13Email us! QuickStartPodcast@cbn.org

Find Rest for Your Soul in JesusVictory Life Church, Durant — Sunday, June 4, 2023Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV) “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”“This is a call for us to reconsider how we have been approaching our life, in light of the fact that we now, in the presence of Jesus, have the option of living within the surrounding movements of God's eternal purpose, of taking our life into his life.” ~ Dallas Willard1 Peter 4:12-19 (ESV) Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And “If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.Entire Family, including their toddler, sentenced to life in prison in North Korea.Chinese Christians are among those who are having their organs harvested.Iranian Christians are being persecuted and arrested.Coptic Christians beheaded by terrorists in 2015.Matthew 11:28-29 (ESV) “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG) “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.” Support the showThis podcast is brought to you free of charge through the donations of generous people.If this content blessed you and you would like to help us reach more people, please take a few minutes to rate our podcast and leave us a review.If you'd like to support us financially, you can make donations hereIf you'd like to learn more about us you can visit our website.If you'd like to contact us directly follow this link. If you enjoyed this teaching, Pastor Jacob has another conversation-style podcast that we think you'd really enjoy. Check it out here!

Find Rest for Your Soul in JesusVictory Life Church, Durant — Sunday, June 4, 2023Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV) “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”“This is a call for us to reconsider how we have been approaching our life, in light of the fact that we now, in the presence of Jesus, have the option of living within the surrounding movements of God's eternal purpose, of taking our life into his life.” ~ Dallas Willard1 Peter 4:12-19 (ESV) Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name. For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And “If the righteous is scarcely saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?” Therefore let those who suffer according to God's will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.Entire Family, including their toddler, sentenced to life in prison in North Korea.Chinese Christians are among those who are having their organs harvested.Iranian Christians are being persecuted and arrested.Coptic Christians beheaded by terrorists in 2015.Matthew 11:28-29 (ESV) “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG) “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.” Support the showThis podcast is brought to you free of charge through the donations of generous people.If this content blessed you and you would like to help us reach more people, please take a few minutes to rate our podcast and leave us a review.If you'd like to support us financially, you can make donations hereIf you'd like to learn more about us you can visit our website.If you'd like to contact us directly follow this link. If you enjoyed this teaching, Pastor Jacob has another conversation-style podcast that we think you'd really enjoy. Check it out here!

Lana Silk is the daughter of Lazarus and Maggie Yeghnazar who were born and raised in Iran and have served the Iranian Church their whole lives. In the late 1980s, they felt the call of God to move their young family West. This was a decision they wrestled with, as their hearts were tied to Iran and the increasingly persecuted Church there. In their own words, “we did not want to abandon our flock”. However, through a series of supernatural interventions, God made it clear to them and to other pastors on their team that He had a different plan for them. In obedience, they left for Europe in 1988.Today, their ministry "Transform Iran" (formerly 222 Ministries), has been training leaders to plant churches in 17 nations. Many of those churches are underground congregations in Iran and Afghanistan. Over 100,000 are now following Jesus Christ. They are also discipling these believers.Lana joins Mike Stone on "Behind the Mike: Conversation of Hope" to talk about her life as an Iranian who left her homeland for Europe, and eventually the United States. Lana is the CEO of the U.S. for Transform Iran.We discuss the negative perception that many Westerners, especially U.S. citizens, have against Iranians and others in the mid-East.God has a plan for Iran and Lana and her team at Transform Iran are helping to spearhead this important transformation. Basic needs are being met while the people of Iran risk their lives to wholeheartedly follow Jesus Christ.You can be a part of the Ministry of Transform Iran! Listen as Lana shares her heart for spreading the Gospel to the people of Iran, then check out the important links below.Support the show----------------------------------------MORE ABOUT THE PODCAST:Behind The Mike website:https://BehindTheMikePodcast.comEmail:Mike@BehindTheMike.netSUPPORT THE SHOW"Buy Me a Coffee"SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Sponsor a Child Through Compassion:compassioninternational.sjv.io/XYxJg4Covenant EyesGet 30-days FREE using promo code: BEHINDTHEMIKEhttps://covenanteyes.comWatch these podcasts on YouTube!Follow Us!FacebookInstagramTi...

In part 2 of Mahmoud's amazing story, learn what happened after Mahmoud came to a church to burn it down. His immediate transformation is astounding. You'll see how Jesus changed everything and stuck close to Mahmoud during immense persecution, and what Jesus compelled Mahmoud to do for Him. Today's Sendoff features another, short testimony from an Iranian believer, brought to you by OneWay's Love Muslims. Be encouraged as you hear about God working in Iran and the Muslim world. Helpful Links:Pray with Prayercast for Muslims during Ramadanhttps://www.prayercast.com/love-muslims-landing.htmlOneWay Love Muslims Testimonieshttps://prayercast.com/testimonies-landing.htmlPsalm 18Psalm 18:1-3 to songWhat is Sufism?Christian Research Institute repost of Elliot Miller, originally published in Forward, volume 9, number 1 (1986). Follow One80 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website. Never miss a One80. Join our email list. Follow us on Instagram.

Mahmoud grew up in an Iranian prominent Muslim family. His grandfather served as an Ayatollah and Mahmoud was to follow in his footsteps. His faith in Islam even got strengthened as he became a “living martyr” who wanted to learn Biblical Christianity to keep it out of his country. When he encountered a Christian who invited him to church, Mahmoud became so angry he planned on burning down the church. ”He got me so angry. I said, ‘Yes, I'm coming.' My student turned back to me. He said, ‘You're going to church?' I said, ‘Of course I'm going to church. This is my country. I give up blood for this country. This is Islamic country; this is my city. We give a right to Christians to have a church in my city. I'm going to burn that church down!'”In Part 1 hear what it was like to grow up in Iran, what he thought of Christians and how Mahmoud started reading the Bible to fight them. Our Sendoff today features Prayercast. Sign up for Prayercast's 2023 Ramadan Prayer Challenge to pray for Muslims all over the world during the 30 days of Ramadan. https://www.prayercast.com/love-muslims-landing.htmlRead about the unprecedented Christian growth in Iran with this Mission Network News story!https://www.mnnonline.org/mission_groups/transform-iran/ Follow One80 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website. Never miss a One80. Join our email list. Follow us on Instagram.

In this bonus episode, we're marking the twentieth anniversary of the modern Farsi translation of the New Testament. 2.5 million copies later, stories of life transformation like the one we share in this episode are happening every day in the Iran region.In this episode, Joe sits down for a conversation with Rasool, an Iranian Christian whose life was changed dramatically after receiving a New Testament. Rasool shares how, after a difficult childhood and a desperate season in early adulthood, a stranger reached out to him online to tell him that God loved him. Not long after, he received not one, but two New Testaments, which began a trajectory that ultimately led him to place his faith in Jesus. Rasool is now involved in full-time ministry and is happily married with a young son. For more information about the recent history and incredible growth of the Iranian church please visit elam.com/iran-story.For more information about our organization, please visit elam.com.

It's Friday, February 24th, A.D. 2023. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. By Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com) Iran pardons two imprisoned Christian converts The Iranian government has pardoned and released two imprisoned Christian converts this past week as a part of the annual tradition of pardoning prisoners during the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran. After spending a year in prison, Hadi Rahimi was released on February 20th. And fellow church member Saheb Fadaie was released on February 9th after spending five years in prison. Both men were imprisoned on charges of “acting against national security by organizing house-churches and promoting ‘Zionist' Christianity.” And both men had been held in Iran's notorious Evin Prison, where many Christians have been imprisoned over the years. As converts to Christianity from Islam, they are not recognized as Christians and have no freedom or protection in worship according to their Christian faith. Many of these Christians face charges related to practicing their faith. They are accused of “propaganda against the state through proselytizing Christianity” or “acting against national security by conducting evangelistic activities.” The new-found freedom of these two Christian prisoners means that our prayers have been answered.  Keep praying that other Iranian Christian prisoners will be released as well. In Isaiah 61:1, the prophet foretold a time when God would “bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners.” New state poll puts DeSantis ahead of Trump A new poll out of Michigan shows Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis garnering more support over former President Donald Trump in a head-to-head matchup. Among Republican voters, 47 percent favor the governor and 42 percent chose Trump with 11 percent undecided, according to the Echelon Insights Poll. When broken down by gender, 43% of Republican women in Michigan support Trump, compared to 40% who favor DeSantis.  And 51% of Republican men say they back DeSantis, while 41% say they support Trump. Trump won Michigan in 2016 against Democrat presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, but lost it to President Joe Biden in 2020. Biden DOJ charges 8 more pro-life activists with violating the FACE Act The U.S. Department of Justice has announced charges against eight pro-life activists for allegedly violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act, also known as the FACE Act, reports LifeSiteNews.com. According to a press release issued by the DOJ Wednesday, Calvin Zastrow, Chester Gallagher, Heather Idoni, Caroline Davis, Joel Curry, Justin Phillips, Eva Edl, and Eva Zastrow apparently blocked the entrance of an abortion mill in Sterling Heights, Michigan on August 27, 2020.  The FACE Act, which was signed into law by Democrat President Bill Clinton in 1994, makes it a crime to intimidate or physically prevent the coming and going of persons seeking the services of abortion mills. The indictment comes just weeks after Mark Houck was found not guilty of violating the Act. Houck, a father of seven, gained nationwide fame after the FBI raided his house with guns drawn while his wife and children were present, all because he defended his son from a vulgar pro-abortion so-called “escort” outside a facility in Philadelphia. Conservatives denounced the agency's behavior, which many said reflected a blatant targeting of pro-lifers under the Biden regime. Pro-life Catholic bishop shot to death A Catholic bishop was fatally shot in Los Angeles on February 18th, reports KTLA. Bishop David O'Connell, the 69-year-old auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, was found shot to death before 1 p.m. in his Hacienda Heights home. He was frequently involved in the pro-life movement, repeatedly leading prayers vigils and processions in front of Planned Parenthood abortion mills in California.  On Monday, Carlos Medina, the 65-year-old husband of O'Connell's housekeeper, was arrested.  He claimed Bishop O'Connell owed him money. “Jesus Revolution” movie portrays revival and Greg Laurie's love story And finally, the love story of Pastor Greg Laurie and his wife, Cathe, is depicted in the new film “Jesus Revolution.”  And now, 50 years later, Cathe is reflecting on the long-lasting love that she encountered with both Jesus and her husband back during the spiritual awakening that swept Southern California in the late 1960s and early 1970s.   HIPPIE: “There is an entire generation searching, just in all the wrong places. And if you want to reach my people, you need to speak to them in a language they understand. CHUCK SMITH: “If I bring them in, I'll lose my job.” HIPPIE: “We can only walk through doors open to us, and your church, that's a door that's shut.” Cathe Laurie sat down for a video interview about the movie Jesus Revolution with The Christian Post. LAURIE: “I think I represent that generation. We were so young. Most of the people that were packing into Calvary Chapel in those days would be my age 15, 16, 17 years old. “It shows what God can do when He breaks through to a generation. It was not organized. It was not orchestrated by a particular parachurch group. It was not organized by a particular church. It was a spontaneous intervention, I believe, of the Holy Spirit into a generation that was lost and searching.” In a candid moment, the wife of Pastor Greg Laurie said the idea of her love story being depicted on the silver screen was scary. LAURIE: “To have our young lives depicted in a major motion picture like this is really quite surprising for me. I will be totally honest with you. I was a little terrified by the idea of it in the beginning stages. “When John Erwin was interviewing Greg and myself, he just wanted to know, as people who lived through this revival, what it was like.” The late Pastor Chuck Smith of Calvary Chapel, portrayed by Kelsey Grammer of Frasier and Cheers fame, took Mark 16:15 to heart. “Go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel to the whole creation.” Watch the trailer of Jesus Revolution through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com.   And get tickets through a separate link as it opens nationwide tonight. Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, February 24th, in the year of our Lord 2023. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

It's Monday, January 30th, A.D. 2023. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. By Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com) Iranian Christians face increased pressure in Islamic Republic In the Islamic Republic of Iran, Christians continue to face increased persecution as the Muslim authorities tighten their grip in response to nationwide protests since September 2022. Christian converts from Islam, in particular, face imprisonment of house church leaders and denial of their basic rights as citizens. Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, that brought the current Iranian government to power, hundreds of thousands of Iranians have trusted Christ as Savior. However, Christians are considered to be direct enemies of the Iranian state. According to Open Doors, Iran is the eighth most dangerous country to live in for Christians. Please pray for our Iranian brothers and sisters in Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:26 says, “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.” Pfizer exec: Mutate COVID virus to profit from more vaccines The Project Veritas staff filmed  Jordan Walker, the Pfizer Director of Research and Development, revealing the company might consider creating mutated forms of COVID-19 to develop highly profitable vaccines, reports LifeSiteNews. Listen. UNDERCOVER REPORTER: “Pfizer ultimately is thinking about mutating COVID?” WALKER:  “Well, that's not what we say to the public. You know how the virus keeps mutating?” REPORTER: “Yeah.” WALKER: “Well, one of the things we're exploring is like, ‘Why don't we just mutate ourselves?' If we're gonna do that, though, there's a risk of, as you could imagine, no one wants to be having a pharma company mutating viruses. It would be very controlled to make sure that the virus that you mutate, doesn't create something like, goes everywhere.” Dr. Robert Malone, a scientist and the Medical Director of the Unity Project, was horrified. MALONE: “The gentleman seems to have absolutely no moral compass at all. If this is the quality of individuals within Pfizer that are making these huge decisions that risk global public health, it's profoundly corrupt!” In response, Republican leaders and conservative commentators have demanded answers from Pfizer and criticized the power held by pharmaceutical companies.  Florida Republican Senator Marco Rubio sent a letter to CEO Albert Bourla  asking for transparent information regarding the pharmaceutical's plans to mutate the COVID virus.  In a written statement, Pfizer did not dispute that Dr. Jordan Walker told a Project Veritas journalist that Pfizer is exploring how to “mutate” the COVID-19 virus. However, Walker, the Pfizer Director of Research and Development, explained how Pfizer was already mutating the COVID virus. WALKER: “The way it would work is that we put the virus in monkeys.” UNDERCOVER REPORTER: “Okay.” WALKER:  “and we successively causing them to keep infecting each other, and we collect serial samples from them. And then, once they're more infectious, the virus we'll put them in another monkey and just constantly actively mutate it. That's one way.” Fox News host Tucker Carlson weighed in.  CARLSON: “A Pfizer executive bragging on camera about how his company conducts a kind of Frankenstein science, manipulating COVID viruses for profit, imperiling potentially the entire world doing it in secret, possibly in violation of federal law. Bragging about this. No matter what your politics are, doesn't matter who you voted for, that's a huge story. And you would think every reporter in this country would be itching to follow up on it, calling Pfizer, telling the public about it. But no, that's not happening.” Bodycam video reveals hammer assault of Paul Pelosi Two disturbing police videos were just released Friday. First, the long-suppressed October 28, 2022 video from a San Francisco policeman's bodycam that shows a portion of the brutal hammer attack on Paul Pelosi, the husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The assailant's name is David DePape, a 42-year-old Canadian illegal alien, who abused drugs, was part of a public nudist group, and had exhibited psychotic behavior, reports the New York Post. In a bizarre audio statement which DePape read to a KTVU reporter last Friday, he didn't apologize for the attack, but apologized for not hurting more people. New video of cops beating a Tennessee motorist In the second video released Friday, Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old black motorist who was pulled over in Memphis, Tennessee on January 7th for reckless driving, was aggressively beaten by five black Memphis police officers, reports National Public Radio. He had tried to flee on foot. Nichols died three days later in the hospital. The footage emerged one day after the officers were charged with murder in Nichols' death. In response, talk show host Todd Starnes reports that a truck rammed stores followed by looting Saturday. Christian cop resigns after superiors upset with anti-“gay” marriage post And finally, Jacob Kersey, a 19-year-old Christian police officer in Georgia, has resigned after he was told by superiors that he could not share his personal religious views on social media, reports The Daily Signal. On January 2, Kersey posted a 20-word message about his view of marriage on Facebook. In a paraphrase of the Apostle Paul's teaching in Ephesians, he wrote, “God designed marriage. Marriage refers to Christ and the church. That's why there is no such thing as homosexual marriage.” The next day, Kersey said he received a phone call from his supervisor, who told him that someone had complained about the post and to take it down.  When Kersey refused, the supervisor warned him that failure to delete the Facebook post on marriage could result in his termination. Kersey said he then was contacted by Lt. Justin Hardy who told him that the Port Wentworth Police Department did not want to be held liable by homosexuals. Kersey still refused to delete the post. Kersey said that Police Chief Matt Libby told him that his Facebook post on marriage was the “same thing as saying the N-word.” After a week of paid administrative leave, Kersey was told he could not work as one of the department's officers if he continued to share his “interpretation or opinion on Scripture if it was deemed offensive.” He refused to be censored and quit. He told The Daily Signal that his decision to share his story “could very well mean I will not have another opportunity to be a police officer. That has been an extremely difficult reality to accept, but I sincerely believe speaking up is the right thing to do.” Jacob Kersey exemplifies 1 Corinthians 16:13 which says, “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” Join me and send a polite email of objection to Port Wentworth Police Chief Matt Libby about his department's bullying of Officer Jacob Kersey. His email address is mlibby@cityofportwentworth.com Close And that's The Worldview in 5 Minutes on this Monday, January 30th, in the year of our Lord 2023. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

Civil unrest in Iran, sparked by the death of 22-year-old Masha Amini in police custody, has spread across the Iranian Republic. What began as a protest for women's rights has swelled, with demands for greater freedoms and even an overthrow of the state. The issue's dominated Iran's play at the Football World Cup in Qatar – as their team stood in silent protest while their anthem was played. Closer to home, here in Wales hundreds have gathered on the streets to protest under the slogan “Women, Life, Freedom.” In response the country's leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has blamed the West for inciting protests and there's been a fierce crackdown. This week Iran reported that there have been more than 300 deaths and thousands have been arrested as a result of the protests. But what does this really mean for people of faith? And how much do we know about the country and lives of the people who live there? While most Iranians are Shi'i Muslims, it is also home to a number of minority religious communities. To discuss the issues Azim Ahmed is joined by Roozbeh Najarnejad, an Iranian Christian who supports Christian communities in Iran through Elam Ministries. Maral Shams, a teacher from Wales who has been closely involved with the “Women, Life, Freedom” protests here in the UK. Padideh Sabeti, Director for the UK Office of Public Affairs for Bahá'í Community, the largest non-Muslim community in Iran, and Maziyar Ghiabi, the Director of the Centre for Persian and Iranian Studies at Exeter University.

It's Wednesday, November 2nd, A.D. 2022. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Two imprisoned Iranian Christians released Praise God! Officials in Iran unexpectedly released two Christians last month from Evin Prison. It's known as the country's “torture factory.” Both Christians received pardons. One of the believers, Pastor Nasser Narvad Gol-Tapeh, had already served half of a ten-year sentence for attending a house church. A few days before the release, a fire broke out at the prison, killing four prisoners. None of the Christians at the prison were hurt. Please pray for the 10 Christians who remain in the infamous prison. The Lord said in Isaiah 43:1-2, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you … When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you.” Court: Scottish venue ordered to pay Billy Graham Assoc. $100,000 Last Monday, a Scottish court ruled an event venue must pay the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, headed by Franklin Graham, over $100,000 for canceling a crusade. Back in January 2020, Scottish Event Campus Limited canceled an event because of Franklin Graham's biblical views on marriage and sexuality. Graham welcomed the ruling, saying, “This case was … about the preservation of religious freedom in the U.K. — particularly the right for Christians to share the Gospel in the public square.” Mexican state recognizes faux homosexual marriage Last Wednesday, Mexico's northeastern border state of Tamaulipas voted to recognize faux homosexual marriage. The vote comes after three other states, Mexico, Sonora, and Sinaloa, made similar votes. Living in vile passions with someone of the same sex is now recognized across Mexico. The practice remains illegal or not recognized in Paraguay, Bolivia, Peru, Venezuela, most of Central America, and much of the Caribbean. Survey on “Christian nationalism” Pew Research released a new survey on so-called Christian nationalism. Sixty percent of U.S. adults think America's founders intended for the country to be a Christian nation, and 45% think America should be a Christian nation. Of those who think the U.S. should be a Christian nation, 30% said they don't even know what being a Christian nation means. Forty-eight percent defined a Christian nation as a country where people are generally guided by Christian values. Only 6% defined it as a country that bases its laws on Christianity.   Isaiah 33:22 says, “The LORD is our Judge, the LORD is our Lawgiver, the LORD is our King; He will save us.” Elon Musk let Twitter fly free After months of back and forth, tech billionaire Elon Musk finalized a deal to buy Twitter last Friday. Musk stepped into the chief executive position and dissolved the company's board of directors. As of next week, Twitter will not be publicly traded. In an open letter, Musk accused traditional media of fueling political polarization. In contrast, Musk said he acquired Twitter to encourage a “common digital town square, where a wide range of beliefs can be debated in a healthy manner.”  10,000 babies spared from abortion since Dobbs case FiveThirtyEight reports over 10,000 fewer abortions took place in the months following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.  Overall, the number of abortions nationwide declined 6% between April and August. Some states experienced a near 100% decline in abortions, including Arkansas, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Texas.  U.S. Senate is up for grabs Also from FiveThirtyEight, control of the U.S. Senate is now in a dead heat between Republicans and Democrats in the midterm elections. Projections also give Republicans substantial odds of taking back the U.S. House of Representatives.  In the governors' races, Democrats are expected to flip Massachusetts and Maryland while Republicans have a good chance of flipping Nevada, Wisconsin, and Oregon. Take a look at iVoterGuide.com to learn more about the candidates on the ballot in your state.   Just type in your street address on the home page to get a personalized ballot. 225,000 North Macedonian children get Bibles And finally, a Texas-based ministry recently delivered over 225,000 children's Bibles to North Macedonia, located in Europe between Serbia to the North and Greece to the South. Eastern European Missions made the delivery to the former communist bloc country after delivering 650,000 Bibles to public schools in Croatia last year. The ministry started out in the 1960s, smuggling between hundreds and thousands of Bibles into the Soviet Union. Now, Eastern European Missions delivers 1.5 million Bibles in over 20 languages to over 30 countries in a year. Revelation 5:9 says of Christ, “You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation.” Close And that's The Worldview in 5 Minutes on this Wednesday, November 2nd, in the year of our Lord 2022. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

How are you handling media in your family- Social media- Music- Movies- Never has media had such a toxic effect on families as it does today.--The media can be powerful tools or devastating destructive devices. There are no options but to become better discerning, better equipped, and better informed. Here's how that can happen.--This program includes---1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus -Two imprisoned Iranian Christians released, Scottish venue ordered to pay Billy Graham Assoc. -100,000, 225,000 North Macedonian children get Bibles---2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

It's Wednesday, October 19th, A.D. 2022. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Iranian Christian man, with Parkinson's disease, in jail Iranian authorities detained a Christian couple in Tehran's Evin Prison back in August. This month, Christian Solidarity International asks for prayer for Homayoun Zhaveh–who suffers from advanced Parkinson's disease–and his wife, Sara Ahmadi. The two have been sentenced to years in prison for participating in a house church. Christian converts in Iran are not recognized, and house churches are frequently raided as “illegal” groups. Dozens of Iranian Christians in recent years have received prison sentences of up to 15 years. Iran is ranked ninth on the Open Doors' World Watch List of nations where it is most difficult to be a Christian.  China President Xi Jinping headed to third term China's Communist Party is meeting this week for their 20th National Congress. President Xi Jinping is expected to get an unprecedented third term as the leader of the Communist Party and the head of China's military forces. Meanwhile, the U.S. is cracking down on American companies selling advanced semiconductors to China. The goal is to slow China's technological and military development. Taiwan, South Korea, and the U.S. continue to outperform China in the manufacturing of high-end computer chips. Million Mexicans march for life Last weekend, over a million people marched across Mexico for the protection of human life. Activists read a manifesto in Mexico City, calling for the life of every human being to be protected equally before and after birth. Most of Mexico's states still have protections for unborn babies, but the lawmakers are facing international pressure to legalize abortion on demand. Update on Christian baker Jack Phillips Colorado Christian baker Jack Phillips is back in court. Phillips of Masterpiece Cakeshop is appealing a ruling from last year that found him guilty of discrimination. He had refused to bake a cake to celebrate someone pretending to be the opposite sex. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of Phillips in 2018 in a similar case. The case involved his refusal to bake a cake to celebrate homosexuality.  Alliance Defending Freedom continues to represent Phillips in his fight for religious freedom. You can support his defense through a link in our transcript today at TheWorldview.com.  Psalm 14:4 asks, “Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge, who eat up My people as they eat bread, and do not call on the LORD?” Poll: 76% of voters say education important A new poll from Rasmussen found education is an important issue for U.S. voters. Seventy-seven percent of likely voters believe education issues will be important in this year's congressional elections, and 45% believe it will be very important.  Sixty-eight percent of voters are worried that public schools are promoting controversial beliefs and attitudes with 49% saying they are very concerned. Last October, 76% of voters were concerned about what public schools were teaching. Social Security recipients get 8.2% increase The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that prices rose by 8.2% last month on an annual basis. In the face of surging inflation, Social Security recipients will get an 8.7% increase in their benefits next year. It's the largest cost-of-living adjustment in 40 years. A survey by the American Advisors Group found nearly a third of seniors say they are delaying retirement or are never planning to retire as consumer costs continue to rise. The impact of Scripture And finally, the American Bible Society released their latest findings from the 2022 State of the Bible report. The study found 92% of Bible Users say the Bible has transformed their life. Even 38% of non-Bible Users say the same. Bible Users are defined as those who read the Bible at least three to four times a year on their own.  The report also found people who are “Scripture Engaged” were the most likely to strongly agree they can forgive others. “Scripture Engaged” individuals are impacted daily by the Bible and regularly read and engage with the Bible. 2 Peter 1:19 says, “We also have the prophetic word strongly confirmed, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.” Close And that's The Worldview in 5 Minutes on this Wednesday, October 19th, in the year of our Lord 2022. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). And here, to conclude the newscast, is my son, Honor, who turns 13 today and becomes a man. Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The predominant view among evangelicals and other Christians today is that the church is not essential anymore. Is that just another first step into apostasy? Is the body of Christ really essential? Can churches who lack church membership be considered a church at all? Jonathan Leeman makes the case for church membership and describes healthy church relationships in this important exchange. This program includes: 1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus (Million Mexicans march for life; Iranian Christian man, with Parkinson's disease, in jail; Update on Christian baker Jack Phillips) 2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

The predominant view among evangelicals and other Christians today is that the church is not essential anymore. Is that just another first step into apostasy- Is the body of Christ really essential- Can churches who lack church membership be considered a church at all- Jonathan Leeman makes the case for church membership and describes healthy church relationships in this important exchange.--This program includes---1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus -Million Mexicans march for life- Iranian Christian man, with Parkinson's disease, in jail- Update on Christian baker Jack Phillips---2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

The California Southern Baptist Convention (CSBC) is asking fellow Southern Baptists to join them in Anaheim and consider taking the next step. A May 6 gas explosion devastated the historic Saratoga Hotel in Old Havana, Cuba, and also rained destruction on nearby Calvary Baptist Church. Remember the words of Isaiah 55:9: God's ways and thoughts are higher than ours.

It's Tuesday, October 4th, A.D. 2022. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes and heard at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson Writing letters to persecuted Christians helps International Christian Concern reports that writing letters to Christians in prison is highly effective. In regards to 7,500 letters mailed to two Iranian Christians imprisoned for their faith, ICC reports, “The letters don't always reach the prisoner. In Maryam and Marziyeh's case, they never actually got to read a single one. But guess who did read the letters? All 7,500 of them? Their guards! And as the guards read letter after letter, they began to treat Maryam and Marziyeh differently knowing the world was watching everything they did. The guards even became curious about the Bible verses written in the letters and would ask Maryam and Marziyeh for explanations.” Find out how to write letters to persecuted saints at www.persecution.org/letters Christian physician assistant fired over refusal to use fake pronouns Speaking of persecution, there's another example in the American workplace. Valerie Kloosterman, a physician assistant within the University of Michigan Health system, has been punished for her Christian convictions. When asked by representatives of Human Resources and the Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion if she would use “gender identity-based pronouns and be willing to refer patients for gender reassignment surgery,” she told them she could not because of her religious beliefs, reports The Christian Post.   According to First Liberty, the interviewer “grew hostile, visibly angry with tight fists and a flushed demeanor, and attacked her religious beliefs.  … [He] told Ms. Kloosterman that she ‘could not take the Bible or her religious beliefs to work with her, either literally or figuratively;' that given her religious beliefs against gender identity-based pronouns and ‘gender reassignment surgery,' she was to blame for transgender suicides; and that she was ‘evil.”   Subsequently, she was fired after a stellar,17-year career. First Liberty is demanding that she be reinstated or the legal defense organization is promising a lawsuit in a federal court.  Revelation 14:12 challenges believers to endure persecution. The Scripture says, “This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep His commands and remain faithful to Jesus.” Big Tech upset with porn-filtering software Big Tech is demonstrating its commitment to online pornography, with Google removing porn-filtering companies from the Android Play Store.   This comes after the left-leaning Wired.com published an article titled "The Ungodly Surveillance of Anti-Porn ‘Shameware' Apps.” It was an attack piece on Covenant Eyes and Accountable2You.  Not the Bee commented on Google's actions. They wrote, “Meanwhile, Amazon, Instagram, Facebook and other apps all listen to you ALL THE TIME and give you ads based on things you just say out loud near your phone.”  But, let us remember, “If we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7) New poll: Republicans have shot at retaking Congress In God's providence, it appears the Republicans have a good shot at regaining control of Congress in the 2022 elections because Americans are more concerned about their money than abortion.   A Monmouth poll found that 47% of voters would prefer a Republican-controlled Congress than Democrats, reports The Washington Examiner. And 82% of Americans see inflation as extremely or very important, over 56% who rank abortion as a significant concern.  Ukrainian president wants NATO membership fast-tracked As of last Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is asking NATO to accelerate Ukraine's membership application, reports World Magazine. This follows Russia's claim on four provinces in the Ukrainian state. In response, Dmitry Medvedev, Russia's top security official, called Zelenskyy's request akin to “begging NATO to accelerate the start of World War III.” Gun sales continue to skyrocket For gun sales, 2022 will turn out to be the third strongest year in American history, right behind 2020 and 2021. That's according to AmericanRifleman.org.   Gun sales in the U.S. averaged 4,000,000 in the 1990s and early 2000s. Over the last three years, the average has been between 10 and 13 million.  Europe's 10% inflation rate There is no abating inflation in the Eurozone — registering 10% in September, up from 9.1% in August. Meanwhile, the Bank of England has jumped back into Quantitative Easing with plans to issue another $650 billion in the upcoming weeks. The UK national bank has increased its base rate to 2.5% throughout seven rate hikes since January, fighting its own 10.0% inflation rate.  Brazil's Bolsonaro outperforms polls, headed to run-off And finally, pundits are saying it was a victory for conservatives in the Brazilian elections over the weekend. The presidential race tips to a runoff election scheduled for October 30th. The incumbent, Jair Bolsonaro, came within 5% of his challenger, Luiz Inácio Lula, the former leftist president. Indeed, Bolsonaro outperformed the prediction of the polls by 6-8%, giving Bolsonaro a fighting chance for the October 30th runoff. Sometimes referred to as South America's Donald Trump, Bolsonaro's favored candidates won the governorship of São Paulo, and the governorship of Rio de Janeiro. Bolsonaro to Tucker Carlson: My campaign anchored by John 8:32 Tucker Carlson from Fox News interviewed President Bolsonaro before the weekend's election. The president quoted from John 8:32 in his comments. BOLSONARO: “I connected my campaign anchored only with a biblical passage: John 8:32. ‘Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.' The media never gave me any visibility or space.  Much to the contrary, they attacked me all the time throughout the campaign. If the left wing does come back to power, in my view, they will never leave power, and this country will follow the same path as Venezuela, Argentina, Chile, and Colombia. Brazil will become one more wagon on that train. “The losers will be the Brazilian population and also the left wing itself. The left wing voters will lose as a result. All of South America will be colored red, if you understand me. And, in my view, the United States will become virtually an isolated country in the world.” CARLSON: “Amazing interview. And guess what? This will shock you.  Bolsonaro bears no resemblance whatsoever to the descriptions of Bolsonaro you have read in the New York Times. Completely different person. Seen that before?” Close And that's The Worldview in 5 Minutes on this Tuesday, October 4th, in the year of our Lord 2022. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

It's Monday, August 22nd,  A.D. 2022. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. By Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com) Iranian Christian convert in Germany denied asylum A 44-year-old Iranian Christian cabinetmaker applied for asylum in Germany in 2018 and, after being denied, now faces deportation back to Iran, reports Alliance Defending Freedom International. The man, whose pseudonym is Hassan, was amazed at the dramatic life change in his brother-in-law after converting from Islam to Christianity.  After his wife trusted Christ, Hassan and their children did as well. Once discovered, security forces then stormed their house and confiscated books, the computer, their passports, and their Bible. The family fled to Turkey, and from there to Germany. Tragically, Hassan's brother-in-law was tortured and killed. After Germany officially rejected his application for asylum, the European Court of Human Rights, to their shame, declined to hear arguments in Hassan's defense in mid-August. According to OpenDoors, Iranian asylum seekers in Germany are often confronted with suspicions of feigned conversion. Iran is the ninth most dangerous country worldwide for Christians. Pray that Hassan and his family will not be deported from Germany back to Iran. In Matthew 5:12, Jesus said of saints like Hassam, “Great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Tucker Carlson ridicules the Inflation Reduction Act Last Thursday night, Fox News Channel's Tucker Carlson gave his take on the Democrats' $740 billion so-called “Inflation Reduction Act.” CARLSON: “What does the Inflation Reduction Act do? Come on. What are you slow? The answer is right there in the name. The Inflation Reduction Act is an Act that reduces inflation. It's an inflation-reducing act. And that's welcome news because inflation is indeed a problem. In fact, voters say it's the problem they worry about most. “So, Congress has decided to reduce it. That's how things work in Washington. You identify a crisis, and then you pass a law making it illegal. Crisis solved. It's simple.” Senator: “Why would” Inflation Reduction Act reduce inflation? Fox News reporter Hillary Vaughn asked Democrat Joe Manchin of West Virginia, who was the single man whose vote made this bill possible, how this law will reduce inflation. Listen. VAUGHN: “When it comes to inflation, is it misleading to call this the Inflation Reduction Act for Americans when it's not going to make their grocery bill cheaper? It's not going to make everyday goods cheaper for them.” MANCHIN: “Why would it? Why would it? Well, immediately, it's not. We never said anything would happen immediately, like today, turn the switch on and off.” Carlson was furious. CARLSON:  “In other words, it will not reduce inflation. But Joe Manchin didn't deny this. He didn't seem bothered by it. In fact, his response was, ‘Why would it?' Well, let's see, because you told us it would, you dishonest little creep. And then you printed another $750 billion of fake money, which is exactly the habit that caused historic inflation in the first place. All this fake money printing.” Democrat refused to answer how Inflation Reduction law will work In addition, Democrat Congressman Jamie Raskin of Maryland couldn't explain the so-called Inflation Reduction Act either. RASKIN: “I note that those who have been blaming President Biden for the inflation going up are now giving President Biden all the credit for inflation going down. So, we're moving things in the right direction already.” A reporter asked the obvious follow-up question. REPORTER: “And what parts of the bill do you think will quickly work on that specifically?” RASKIN: “The, the … Next question!” Carlson summarized Raskin's hostility well. CARLSON: “In other words, you've caught me lying and I don't even care. Go away, peasant!” Male golfer advances in Ladies Golf Association A male golfer, who is pretending to be female, is poised to become the first so-called “transgender” person to earn a Ladies Professional Golf Association tour card after beating much of his female competition in the first two qualifying rounds, reports the Toronto Sun. Last week, James Davidson, age 29, who now goes by the fake name, Hailey, had a strong finish in the first two rounds in the Ladies Professional Golf Association in Palm Springs.  James began undergoing hormone treatments in 2015, got breast implants, grew his hair long, and wears make-up and nail polish. Episcopal Church greenlights puberty blockers, surgeries for kids The Episcopal Church has officially endorsed puberty blockers and mutilating surgeries for gender-confused children "at all ages" with the adoption of Resolution D066, reports ThePostMilennial.com. In a column for LifeSiteNews, Jonathon Van Maren wrote, "This is disturbing but not surprising. The Episcopal Church has been post-Christian for some time, and has fully bought into the premises of the transgender movement.” When the Episcopal Church refers to their affirmation of “gender-affirming care,” Van Maren declares, “‘Gender-affirming care' is trans-speak for sex changes and puberty blockers. It means castrations for the boys; double mastectomies for the girls; and life-long drug regimens that irreversibly damage those who take them … [including] deforming the genitals, eliminating sexual function, reducing bone growth, and destroying fertility.” Heroic cat deterred burglars And finally, you've heard of guard dogs, but have you ever heard of a guard cat? At 2:30 in the morning on July 25th when a 20-pound cat, named Bandit, heard robbers trying to break into Fred Everitt's house in Belden, Mississippi, she sprung into action. Not only did she meow incessantly, but she raced into the bedroom, pawed at the blankets, and swiped at her owner's arms. It worked, reported NBC News. Mr. Everitt, who was now fully alert, knew something was wrong. He said aloud, “What in the world is wrong with you?” since he had never witnessed such behavior previously. When he went to investigate, turned on the lights in his home, he saw two young men outside his back door. Not only were they armed with a gun, but they were using a crowbar to break in. Everitt said by the time he retrieved a handgun and returned to the kitchen, the would-be intruders had already fled. Had the cat, named Bandit, not alerted her owner to the real bandits, the homeowner would have been robbed, and possibly injured or killed. Like the time the Lord provided a huge fish to swallow Jonah, in Jonah 1:17, God used a huge cat to awaken Mr. Everitt. Close And that's The Worldview in 5 Minutes on this Monday, August 22nd, in the year of our Lord 2022. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

The East is on the rise.--The West is on the decline.---And, the dividing line is Ukraine and Russia, with Russia at least pretending to hold to -traditional- marriage.--But the same thing is happening, with the Nancy Pelosi-supported Taiwan vs. China that at least wants to pretend to hold to -traditional- marriage. Is war inevitable between the -traditionalist- East and the -progressive- West---Make no mistake about it.--The nations are more vulnerable to destruction than they ever have been before.-----This program includes-----1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus -Heroic cat deterred burglars, Senator- -Why would- Inflation Reduction Act reduce inflation-, Iranian Christian convert in Germany denied asylum-----2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

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So, everything is to be submitted to Christ. . . except for the civil government- Is that how it works---Why are Christians so hesitant to submit their politics to rule of Jesus Christ- But, what does the Christian do when he is the far minority, and there is little opportunity to impact politics----This program includes---1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus -Justice Samuel Alito in undisclosed location, Victory for Texas school board conservatives, Iranian Christian gets 10 years in prison for starting church---2. Generations with Kevin Swanson