Podcast appearances and mentions of jesus jesus

Knowing god vs. Knowing God: Identifying Little 'g' gods in Your Life In the Christian walk, there is a profound difference between knowing god (in a vague, cultural, or superficial sense) and truly knowing God—the living, holy, personal capital ‘G' God of Scripture. One leads to religion without transformation, while the other leads to relationship, reverence, and revival.     1. "Knowing god": The Danger of Substitutes When we say someone "knows god" in the lowercase sense, it often means: A generic belief in a higher power without commitment to Jesus Christ. An idea of god shaped by culture, comfort, or convenience. A belief in self-made gods—things or people we elevate in our lives that take the place of God. These little ‘g' gods are idols in disguise. Common "little g" gods: Success or ambition Money or materialism Approval or popularity Control or self-dependence Romance or relationships Religion without relationship "You shall have no other gods before Me." – Exodus 20:3 "Their gods are silver and gold, the work of human hands." – Psalm 115:4 These idols may not be carved statues, but they compete for our worship. They promise what only God can truly give—security, identity, purpose—but they always fail. 2. "Knowing God": The Real, Living Relationship To know God (capital G) means: Relationship over religion – Knowing about God isn't enough. He wants us to walk with Him daily. Revelation through Jesus – Jesus said, "If you have seen Me, you have seen the Father" (John 14:9). Submission and transformation – Knowing God means He shapes our identity, decisions, and desires. "Be still, and know that I am God." – Psalm 46:10 "Now this is eternal life: that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent." – John 17:3 3. How to Move from "knowing god" to Truly Knowing God Evaluate what you worship – What consumes your time, thoughts, and trust? Repent of idols – Confess and surrender the little gods you've allowed to lead you. Seek intimacy with God – Through prayer, Scripture, worship, and obedience. Invite the Holy Spirit to reveal any hidden idols or areas of misplaced trust.  

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Thank you for listening to the Disciple City Church Podcast! To learn more about us or to connect with us, please visit our…Website: https://disciplecitychurch.orgInstagram: https://instagram.com/disciplecitychurch Facebook: https://facebook.com/disciplecitychurch

Luke 10:38-42 (Verse 42) Matthew 6:32-33; Matthew 6:19-21, 24 (Treasures in Heaven)This brief text underlines two main points: first, that Jesus looks to both men and women to be dedicated disciples; Second, that in our physical, societal lives our goals and priorities are more easily earthly, the heavenly goals are more difficult and ethereal. This is part of our fallen human nature and it's focus that's why the Gospels present such episodes our text where earthly practiced good duties are considered important but we should also include and make room for the spiritual and as difficult as it may be for us fallen humans, Christ's Kingdom and calling should be prioritized not only by full-time ministers, but for every believer and as I emphasized many times before, God promises to provide needed help( Matthew 6:32-33; Luke 11:3) This brief episode in Mary and Martha's (Lazarus sisters), lives demonstrates that what can distract us from our expected devotion to Christ, His calling and Kingdom are good, practical earthly things, in this case a cultural expectations for honorable women to prepare a feast for an honored rabbi; what would be wrong with this? But, this text interprets this good thing being done as a distraction(verse 40) in contrast to Mary's adoration of Jesus “... (sitting at the Lord's feet listening to what He said(His word)? While Martha was covering all the basis of societal, cultural expectations for such an event Mary seemed to not be doing her part for the honored guest and this bothered Martha. And she demanded that He command Martha to “help me”. Jesus' response to Martha is culturally counter intuitive in that society. Martha Martha… you are worried about many good things but compared to them there are more important things, summarized as only “a few or even one.” Mary has come up short for the expected societal demand, but has chosen what is better and even if the soup prepared gets cold, her taking time to worship Jesus will be accepted. This does not mean that Martha, Mary don't also have good earthly duties beyond hospitality and even more important societal responsibilities to family, careers, comfort, upward mobility, but these come also because they are not easily detectable distractions as to our calling from Christ. While we strive to not commit clear heinous sins that are obvious to all, there exist other demons behind the so-called respectable actions that take up too much of our time and energies and they then become a distraction to our relationship with God and our service to Him. Satan's temptation of Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4, Luke 4) included some good practical earthly suggestions for a fasting, starving Jesus: “Jesus turn the stones to bread, for you are physically hungry, this would be a good thing, even a good thing to do, but Jesus said No! (“It is written, humans and even Jesus, shall not live on bread alone (Luke 4:4).” It would have been a good thing but Jesus taking this road would have led to a distraction from His mission. Other stories of women ministry to Jesus make similar points: first, a sinful woman anoints Jesus feet with tears, even pouring expensive perfume on them in the supper at the Pharisee's house. Jesus becomes a display of repentance but for the Pharisee, this was a distraction from holiness and proof that Jesus may not be a true prophet. After all and possibly a waste of something very expensive. Second, possibly the same event in Mark 14:3-9 Jesus becomes was rebuked by those present as a waste of a years wages that could have been sold and given to the poor; but to Jesus it was a “beautiful thing she did to prepare for His burial,” as out of worship, their seeming reasonableness in this situation became a distraction. Judas Iscariot was one of the critics who shortly after the betrayal of Jesus (verses 10-11). Third, a similar strong reprisal in Matthew 26:6-13 Jesus' indignant audience spiritually could not see beyond their legalistic no

A study through the gospel of John. Jesus walks on water and calms the storm! This message of God's love is for you.Text: John 6:16-21For more information about Journey Church visit: www.journeyinbend.com Find Journey on all social media: @journeyinbend Please subscribe and engage. At Journey we believe there's HOPE FOR EVERYONE!

John 6:40 - 7:18We explore Jesus' challenging teaching about being "the bread of life" and what it means to eat his flesh and drink his blood, examining the Quaker understanding of spiritual nourishment beyond ritual.• Distinction between the two meanings of "Jews" in John's Gospel—either ethnic Jews or specifically those opposed to Jesus• Jesus' shocking language about eating his flesh and drinking his blood as a spiritual metaphor• The Quaker understanding that inward spiritual feeding matters more than outward rituals• Difference between physical symbols and the spiritual reality they represent• The meaning of "It is the Spirit that gives life; the flesh is useless"• How Jesus' teaching relates to communion/eucharist practices• The significance of Jesus' brothers not believing in him initially• The contrast between human language and spiritual realities• The divine drawing that brings people to spiritual understanding"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If any man hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to him and will sup with him and he with me." Revelation 3:20A complete list of our podcasts, organized into topics, is available on our website.To learn more about Ohio Yearly Meeting (Conservative) of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), please visit ohioyearlymeeting.org. Those interested in exploring the distinctives of Conservative Friends waiting worship should consider checking out our many Zoom Online Worship opportunities during the week here. All are welcome! We also have several Zoom study groups. Check out the Online Study and Discussion Groups on our website. We welcome feedback on this and any of our other podcast episodes. Contact us through our website.

Mark 11:12-22

Finding peace and purpose through Jesus's first post-resurrection appearance. Discover the profound meaning behind Jesus appearing to His disciples, declaring peace, and commissioning them for ministry. Learn about the significance of locked doors, the meaning of peace (shalom), and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Understand the ministry of reconciliation and how it applies to modern Christian life. This message explores spiritual transformation, divine purpose, forgiveness, resurrection, Christian ministry, discipleship, Holy Spirit, peace with God, spiritual authority, and the Great Commission. Perfect for those seeking meaning, purpose, and understanding of core Christian beliefs. Discover how ancient biblical truths provide relevant guidance for contemporary faith and ministry.

Series: Risen JesusScripture: Luke 24:1-12We hope you enjoyed listening to this message! If you'd like to stay updated on what God is doing at Citylight Council Bluffs, be sure to follow us:Citylight Council BluffsFacebookInstagramCitylight Council BluffsSunday Gatherings at 9:00 & 11:00 AMLivestream at 9:00 AM2109 Railroad Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503Support the show

Easter Sermon - Pastor Chris Stuffleben

Charlie Dunn // John 20:1; 11-18

Good Friday - Ross Collins - Friday 18 Apr 25

Jesus endured the cross because of His enduring love for us. He willingly carried His cross so that we could have an abundant life on earth and eternal life. Order Jesus Carrying His Cross Print: heavensmemento.comHave you been blessed by our podcast? Give and support this ministry at LivingRevelations.com/donationsRegister for our 2025 Discover Your Purpose Conference: bit.ly/DYPC2025Want to join our Online Bible Studies? Have any questions, prayer requests, or testimonies? Email us at info@livingrevelations.com.Follow us on Instagram: @livingrevelationsFollow us on Facebook: @livingrevelationsSubscribe on Youtube: @livingrevelationsSupport the show

WHAT HAPPENS IN THIS EPISODE: Jesus prays for himself, his disciples, and those who will come after them in Jesus' name He takes Peter, James, and John to pray for deliverance from the wrath that he is about to experience Soldiers and Temple guards arrive to arrest Jesus Jesus' disciples try to fight back over Jesus' objections Jesus is bound and taken away His disciples run away SCRIPTURES USED IN THIS EPISODE: John 17:1-26 John 18:1-12 Mark 14:32-34 Luke 22:41-45 Matthew 26:40-46 Matthew 26:56 Mark 14:46-47; 50-52 Luke 22:47-51 Exodus 3:13-15 FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JesusStoriesThePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesus_stories_the_podcast/ X: https://x.com/JesusStoriesPod Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Let's explore the identity, character, and mission of Christ. Each message will dive into Scripture to reveal Jesus as Savior, King, and the perfect reflection of God's love.  We were saved for a purpose. Our life was never meant to be boring. In fact, we were meant to live out our mission: to go!  This week, we talk about Jesus the Sender.

Es gibt Geschichten über Jesus in der Bibel, die einen kurz aufhorchen lassen. Geschichten, bei denen man sich fragt, ob er das wirklich gemacht hat? In dieser Serie wollen wir einen neuen, realistischen Blick auf Jesus und seine leidenschaftliche, risikobereite Art bekommen. Wir wollen ermutigen, den echten Jesus zu entdecken und ihm nachzufolgen.

Es gibt Geschichten über Jesus in der Bibel, die einen kurz aufhorchen lassen. Geschichten, bei denen man sich fragt, ob er das wirklich gemacht hat? In dieser Serie wollen wir einen neuen, realistischen Blick auf Jesus und seine leidenschaftliche, risikobereite Art bekommen. Wir wollen ermutigen, den echten Jesus zu entdecken und ihm nachzufolgen.

Scriptures: The Coronation of King Charles The Coronation of King Jesus Matthew 21:1-17, What does the coronation of Jesus the King tell us about Him? 1. Jesus is a Humble King - Monday, Matthew 11:28-29, 2. Jesus is a Holy King - Tuesday, Matthew 21:12-13, 1 Peter 1:15-16, 3. Jesus is a Healing King, Matthew 21:14, 4. Jesus is the Honored King, Matthew 21:15-17, Luke 19:37-40, 5. Jesus is a Harmonious King, Luke 19:41-44, Matthew 21:23-27, Matthew 23:37-39, 6. Jesus is a Horrifying King, Revelation 19:11-16, Revelation 6:12-17, Why is this horrifying to the masses of people? 1. They have rejected Him as their king, Matthew 23:37, 2. They are out of time, 2 Corinthians 6:1-2, So how do we relate to Jesus the King? Application Point: Surrender to King Jesus!

Matthew 21:1-11

Mensagem do Pr. Rodrigo Soeiro pregada no dia 06 de abril de 2025.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.adai.com.br⁠⁠⁠⁠

Let's explore the identity, character, and mission of Christ. Each message will dive into Scripture to reveal Jesus as Savior, King, and the perfect reflection of God's love.  This week, we consider if our lives reflect the benefits of belonging to Jesus. Join us as we deepen our understanding of who He is and what that means for our lives today. 

This Sunday we had the senior pastor of Imprint Church, Wole Agbaje. In this episode, he talks about Jesus and the rich young ruler on following Jesus and leaving everything else behind.

A study through the gospel of John. Pastor Keith spoke on healing by faith in the name of Jesus. This message of God's love is for you.Text: John 4:46-54For more information about Journey Church visit: www.journeyinbend.com Find Journey on all social media: @journeyinbend Please subscribe and engage. At Journey we believe there's HOPE FOR EVERYONE!

Scriptures: Friends Proverbs 17:17, Godly Friendship Adam and Eve, Genesis 3:8-13, Abraham, Isaiah 41:8, James 2:23, Moses, Exodus 33:9-11, Sinners, Matthew 11:19, Judas, Matthew 26:47-51, Psalm 41:9, Friendship with Jesus John 15:12-15, Romans 6, Genesis 18:17-19, Luke 22:31-32, John 21:18-19, Application Point: Spend Time with Your Friend!

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Listen in as Myles Toulmin speak on Jesus and the mother of Zebedee's sons on the definition of true success and greatness on Mothering Sunday.

What we focus on forms us. It forms us mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and communally. Join us as we focus on the One who changes everything... Jesus!For this week's Outline and Community Group questions, download our app or visit hillsidefellowship.org, click on Resources, and find today's sermon.

To Be a Jesus Follower, You Must First Enter the Only Door to God's Kingdom and that Door is Jesus – the Door to Eternal Life MESSAGE SUMMARY: In John 14:6, Jesus says: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no one come to the Father but through me.”. In Luke 13:23-25, Jesus is asked a pivotal question; and Jesus responded: “And someone said to him, ‘Lord, will those who are saved be few?' And he said to them, “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,' then he will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.'”. It is not that Jesus does not want all to be saved, it is just that the “gate”, to our Salvation and Eternal Life, is “narrow” and difficult to enter. We enter Eternal Life through Jesus and Jesus alone, and so many miss this fundamental tenant of our Christian faith; and they miss knowing Jesus – Jesus is the door, the narrow door. Neither Islam, nor Hinduism, nor just “my personal religion” is the door – Jesus is the only door.   TODAY'S PRAYER: Keeping the Sabbath, Lord, will require a lot of changes in the way I am living life. Teach me, Lord, how to take the next step with this in a way that fits my unique personality and situation. Help me to trust you with all that will remain unfinished and to enjoy my humble place in your very large world. In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 129). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM RIGHTEOUS IN GOD'S EYES. God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): John 14:6; Mathew 3:1-3; John 4:1-5; Psalms 33a:1-11. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “Essentials Part 5 – The Holy Spirit” at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/    DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Pastor Chris Stuffleben - March 30th, 2025

Listen in as Sam Follet leads a sermon on Conversation with Jesus - Jesus and the disciples.

Finding hope and purpose through spiritual transformation - a powerful account of redemption from Mark's Gospel. This life-changing story explores themes of spiritual warfare, divine healing, mental health, supernatural encounters, and personal transformation. Discover how no one is beyond God's reach and how complete life change is possible through faith. Learn about demon possession, spiritual deliverance, mental wellness, and finding purpose in life. This message addresses depression, anxiety, spiritual oppression, and the journey to wholeness. Perfect for those seeking answers about supernatural phenomena, spiritual healing, mental health solutions, or personal transformation. Explore themes of hope, redemption, purpose, and the power of sharing your story. Essential viewing for anyone interested in spiritual growth, mental health awareness, or understanding supernatural encounters in modern times.

Series: Suffering JesusScripture: Luke 22:1-6, 31-38, 47-62We hope you enjoyed listening to this message! If you'd like to stay updated on what God is doing at Citylight Council Bluffs, be sure to follow us:Citylight Council BluffsFacebookInstagramCitylight Council BluffsSunday Gatherings at 9:00 & 11:00 AMLivestream at 9:00 AM2109 Railroad Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503Support the show

Scriptures: Jesus the Light 1 Timothy 6:13-16, Jesus the Creator John 1:1-3, Who is Lord: Christ of Caesar? by Steven Nichols Jesus as Lord? The Lord Jesus Christ God has made Jesus Lord Acts 2:36, He is our one and only Lord 1 Corinthians 8:6, He is Lord of the Sabbath Mark 2:28, The vengeance of our Lord Jesus 2 Thessalonians 1:6-8, Believers are to obey the Lord Jesus Luke 6:46, Believers fellowship with Jesus Christ the Lord 1 Corinthians 1:9, A mark of a believer is saying Jesus is Lord 1 Corinthians 12:3, Believers are to put on the Lord Jesus Romans 13:14, 2 Corinthians 4:5, Romans 10:9, John 20:28, Making Jesus the Lord of our Lives Ephesians 3:14-17, inner strength-v16, indwelling Christ-v17, Acts 10:12-14, Philippians 2:9-11 Application Point: Surrender to the Lord Jesus!

Basic Bible Study | John 1:1-18 and Luke 1:5-80 (Part 3) This is part 3 of 6 In today's podcast, join Chris and Robyn as they continue their discussion in John 1:1-18 and Luke 1:5-80. Here is a breakdown of what was discussed: - Luke was the first historian of the early church - God sent John the Baptist to tell folks about the light of Jesus - Jesus was fully human & fully God “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ABOUT Opening a Bible for the first time can be intimidating. Join Amy & Robyn in an easy-to-follow discussion. This Basic Bible Study is perfect for beginners & those who have never read the Bible. Look for new podcasts every Tuesday & Friday! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ BIBLE RESOURCES https://biblehub.com/ https://www.bible.com/ http://betterdaysarecoming.com/bible/pronunciation.html https://biblespeak.org/ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/mybasicbiblestudy WEBSITE http://www.mybasicbiblestudy.com ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ You can contact us via e-mail or regular old snail-mail: Basic Bible Study 7797 N. 1st St. #34 Fresno, CA 93720 basicbiblestudy19@gmail.com ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As we head into Easter, we're kicking off our new series, 'Conversations with Jesus', with Dan Blythe! In this episode, Dan unpacks the reality of the cross what it truly means.

Series: Suffering JesusScripture: Luke 20:1-44We hope you enjoyed listening to this message! If you'd like to stay updated on what God is doing at Citylight Council Bluffs, be sure to follow us:Citylight Council BluffsFacebookInstagramCitylight Council BluffsSunday Gatherings at 9:00 & 11:00 AMLivestream at 9:00 AM2109 Railroad Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503Support the show

John 3:22-36,After this Jesus and his disciples went into the Judean countryside, and he remained there with them and was baptizing. 23 John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because water was plentiful there, and people were coming and being baptized 24 (for John had not yet been put in prison).25 Now a discussion arose between some of John's disciples and a Jew over purification. 26 And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, he who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you bore witness—look, he is baptizing, and all are going to him.” 27 John answered, “A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven. 28 You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.' 29 The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. 30 He must increase, but I must decrease.”31 He who comes from above is above all. He who is of the earth belongs to the earth and speaks in an earthly way. He who comes from heaven is above all. 32 He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives his testimony. 33 Whoever receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true. 34 For he whom God has sent utters the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure. 35 The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand. 36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him. Okay, to get started here, I need you to use your imagination for a minute. Imagine that you're in a helicopter and you're flying over Jerusalem — say the helicopter is an eyewitness news station that you're a part of — and so you're flying over Jerusalem to see what's going on — also it's the year 28 (so there's some time travel involved here, but you're using your imagination). Well, you're flying over Jerusalem, over the outskirts, in an area known as the Judean countryside, and you look down and you see a little pocket of people — there's a leader and some followers — and more people are coming to them and they're dunking them in the water.Then you fly up a little more north of Jerusalem, in the countryside and you notice another little pocket of people — there's a leader and some followers — and they're also dunking people in the water.You realize you've seen, basically, two identical pockets of people: two different groups led by two different men in two different areas outside of Jerusalem but they're doing the same thing — that's the setting of our passage today. That's how John, the writer of this Gospel, sets this story up. But now imagine that you jump out of the helicopter (with a parachute) and you come down to one of these pockets of people — and it's the group led by John the Baptist — and you overhear a dialogue.There had been a discussion between a Jewish man and the disciples of John the Baptist about purification — that's all we're told in verse 25 — but apparently that discussion sparked some confusion for the disciples of John the Baptist and so they came to John the Baptist to talk with him in verse 26 and here is where the real action starts. And there are three main things going on here that John, the writer of this Gospel, wants us to see. And I think that if we can track with these three things then we will understand this passage. So three things, really simple:Questions ContinueMission CompleteJesus ClearWe're gonna look closer at each of these three things and we're gonna find in each one there's something for us to take away. There's some practical connections that we need to make. So I'll pray again and we'll get started. Father, you are good and you do good things. Even in the midst of our hard things, we know that you're at work and you do not make mistakes. We ask that you give us now everything we need, to hear from you and to trust you, in Jesus's name, amen. 1. Questions ContinueNow there's not a question mark in verse 26, but these disciples of John the Baptist are bringing a question. Look at verse 26,And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, he who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you bore witness—look, he is baptizing, and all are going to him.”So these guys had found out about that other pocket of people outside of Jerusalem which was led by Jesus, and they found out that they were doing the exact same thing that John the Baptist and his pocket of people were doing — and these guys were confused by that. Now some have read this and assumed that the disciples of John the Baptist are jealous here; that interpretation assumes they don't like the fact that more people are now going to Jesus than to John. And that could be true, but I don't think that's what's going on. Notice that these guys recognize in verse 26 that Jesus is the one John the Baptist bore witness to back in Chapter 1. They're saying: Hey, that guy that you were telling us about — the one that you said some pretty amazing things about — he's over there doing what we're doing. See, the implied question is: If the one you said you were here to point to is now doing what you're doing, why are you still doing it? (This is the question at least that John the writer wants us to wonder as we read this story.)Don't get too distracted by the details of verse 26 because it's really just there to set up what John the Baptist is about to say in verses 27–30, and the main thing we should see here is that the reality of Jesus raises questions. We've already seen this in the Gospel of John. Everywhere Jesus goes, there's more questions. In Chapter 1: Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?At the wedding, Chapter 2: Why have we kept the good wine for the end? At the temple: Who do you think you are to bring this mayhem?Then, Nicodemus: Can a grown man enter into his mother's womb a second time and be born?We've already seen Jesus raise questions, and here questions continue (and they're gonna keep coming), but at this point, let's drill down into what the question is. Basically, these guys are asking: since Jesus is now here, what do we do?You get that? They're asking: How do we make sense of what we're doing in light of the reality of Jesus?To Ask EverydayAnd I want you to know that question has never stopped being asked — in fact, that's a question we should ask ourselves today. How does Jesus being Jesus change the way I live?And first, we might think broadly about the whole course of our lives and all of our big decisions. If it were not for Jesus, things would look very differently for most of us (I know that's true for me!) — but let's not settle with that broad kind of thinking. Take another step. For example, you might first think … “Because of Jesus I'm a mother.” Okay, yes, but it's more than that. Because of Jesus you want to be a certain kind of mother. What kind? How does Jesus being Jesus make you a certain kind of mother?Another example: “Because of Jesus, I give” — and that's great, but take another step. How does Jesus being Jesus impact the ways you give, and how much you give, and to where?One more example: You might think: “Because of Jesus, there are certain things I don't do” — and that's good, but how does Jesus being Jesus change the way you use your time? What do you give your energy to? How do you think about your purpose?See, the fact is: Jesus has come! Jesus is real. It's like he's right over there. So what do we do now? Today? Tomorrow? The next day? Since Jesus is Jesus, how should we live?The questions continue. And that's the question for us. The second thing to track in this passage is …2. Mission CompleteThis is in verses 27–30 where John the Baptist answers his followers, and what he does here is he gives the concluding explanation of his ministry. Like in Chapter 1, he says again, one more time, what he's all about. He starts with verse 27:“A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven.” Now that's a true statement all across the board. Every gift we have is ultimately from God. But John is saying this here about what God has called him to do. He's had one job this whole time — to point people to Jesus. That's the job God gave John the Baptist to do, and he says he's done it.He says to his followers, Hey, you guys can vouch for me. You've heard me say, I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.You're telling me that all are going to him — and they should be! This is the point. Jesus is the bridegroom; I'm just the friend of the groom, verse 29.And just like that, John the Baptist uses a wedding metaphor. And this is important. When he mentions the “friend of the groom” here he's talking about the best man. That's the idea. That's how John the Baptist understood himself. He is Jesus's best man.Have any of y'all ever been to a wedding when after the ceremony, at the reception or wherever, there's a big receiving line?Well, have y'all ever seen it that when people are lining up to meet the bride and groom, the best man is over in the corner of the room, and he's trying to get people to form a line to see him? Ever seen that before? Have you ever heard of a best man who is confused that people wanna see the groom?Of course not! This is a perfect image, John!For those of you who have a wedding this summer — a lot of you, actually — understand this: the best man has one job. (Now I know today he does a couple of things — there's the ring and the speech and all that — but traditionally, the best man had one job). He was to make sure the groom gets to the wedding. That's it. That's what he's for. And when the groom gets there, the best man is done. “This joy of mine is now complete. He must increase, but I must decrease.”See, this is the fadeout moment for John the Baptist. And his whole ministry has been looking forward to this. He's known the whole time it's not about him. His one job has been to prepare the way for Jesus — to clear the way for us to see Jesus — and John the Baptist says here, “I've done it. Mission complete.”And I'm so happy for him! I love that he experienced this! I love that he says mission complete, but it makes me wonder: Do you think we'll ever say that?Our Mission NowJohn the Baptist was able to begin his ministry with the end in mind, and here he's reached the finish line. He did it. But when it comes to our mission, is it possible for us to experience that in this life?At one level, no. When we think of the mission Jesus has given us — “make disciples of all nations” — one day that mission will be complete, but not here. Technically, mission complete for us comes in the New Jerusalem, in heaven.So then what does that mean for now? Like for now, are we just spinning our wheels trying to climb a mountain we'll never reach?If that's how we think about our mission, that's pretty depressing and non-compelling.So think about it like this: although we may not see the full mission complete in our lifetime, the things we do today on mission have an eternal impact. Our actions have eternal consequences. They matter.As a local church, last year we focused in on our mission — we exist to make joyful disciples of Jesus who remember his realness in all of life.This means that we don't just want ourselves to be happier in God, but we want more people in the Twin Cities to be happy in God! That's over 3.7 million people! That's gonna take some time and look, we probably won't get there in the next 50 years. And that's okay. It's not our responsibility to do it all, but we are responsible for a part.Our cities are full of lost people who must be found, and hopeless people who must find hope, and drowning people who must be saved — and we have a life boat. And we can and should make a difference. One day, in heaven, it will be mission complete for us like it is for John the Baptist here … but that mission complete does come in part through what we do now. Questions continue …Mission complete …3. Jesus ClearThis is verses 31–36, and it's where John, the writer of this Gospel, speaks up with his own commentary. Now that John the Baptist has officially faded out, John the writer wants us to focus in all the more on Jesus. Like he did in Chapter 1, John here tells us who Jesus is. He tells us seven truths about Jesus:Jesus is above all (v. 31)Jesus has seen and heard from God the Father (v. 32)Jesus utters the words of God the Father (v. 34a)Jesus has been given the Spirit without measure by God the Father (v. 34b)Jesus is loved by God the Father (v. 35a)Jesus has been given all things by God the Father (v. 35b)Jesus, therefore, elicits a consequential response (vv. 33, 36)You can track each one of these in order, but I'm just gonna highlight one here in closing (one and a half). It's in verse 34, and I want you to see this — I also wanna make sure you're still with me. So everybody, if you can, find verse 34. Verse 34,“For he whom God has sent utters the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure.”Now, when John is telling us about Jesus here, he's doing it in contrast to John the Baptist. Remember John the Baptist was an Old Testament prophet, and John wants us to know that Jesus was much greater than just a prophet — he comes from above, and he's not just told what to say, but he's actually seen and heard directly from God the Father because he's been with the Father forever. So what Jesus says, the Father says, “for” or “because” the Father gives Jesus the Spirit without measure. That's also meant to be a contrast with John the Baptist, or really with any prophet. It was commonly understood in the Jewish worldview that as God spoke through the prophets, God gave a measure of his Spirit to each prophet for their assigned task. Every prophet received the measure of the Spirit that was required for their assignment.Well John is saying that it's different with Jesus. He's more than a prophet. He doesn't just receive a bit of the Spirit for a one-off job, but he's been given the Spirit without limit. His job never ends. Jesus is constantly, always, revealing God to us. He's always making God known. He's always the way back to a relationship with God. And the Spirit is always with Jesus doing that work. The Spirit was doing that work when Jesus was here on this earth, and the Spirit is still doing that work today, as the message of Jesus continues to be told. One way to say it is that anywhere Jesus is made clear, the Spirit is at work. Closer Than a Copter ViewAnd that elicits a consequential response. This is verse 36. And it's really simple: Whoever believes in Jesus has eternal life; whoever does not obey him — does not believe him — the wrath of God remains on him.That's verse 36, which means we all have to make a choice about Jesus. Whenever we hear about Jesus we come to a fork in the road: will we believe him or not?Those are the only two options for us when we encounter Jesus. And this book has been written so that we encounter him. See, a lot of times in life, we can try to stay with only that helicopter view of Jesus. We kinda see him from afar, we know about him, but we don't wanna get too close to him. We don't wanna have to make a choice about him. But the Gospel of John doesn't let us do that. This book gives us closer than a helicopter view. This book brings Jesus right here in front us. John is all about making Jesus clear to us — and we should choose him. Believe him. Trust him. Questions continue.Mission complete.Jesus clear.That's what's going on in this passage, and that's what brings us to the Lord's Table.The TableWe come to this Table each week, first, because Jesus told us to — he told us to come to this table and remember his death for us. The bread represents the body of Jesus, and the cup represents his blood, and as we eat and drink this bread and cup we are saying together that Jesus is our hope. That's why this is a meal for Christians.If you're here this morning and you're not yet a Christian or if you're not sure, I'm so glad you're here and I invite you, Put your faith in Jesus! Believe him! — and I'd love to talk with you more about that. I'll hang out down here after the service as usual. Come talk to me.So for those who believe, if you trust in Jesus Christ, let's eat and drink together and give him thanks.

Series: Suffering JesusScripture: Luke 19:45-48, 20:45-21:4We hope you enjoyed listening to this message! If you'd like to stay updated on what God is doing at Citylight Council Bluffs, be sure to follow us:Citylight Council BluffsFacebookInstagramCitylight Council BluffsSunday Gatherings at 9:00 & 11:00 AMLivestream at 9:00 AM2109 Railroad Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503Support the show

A study through the gospel of John. Pastor Keith preached through John chapter two where Jesus cleanses the temple. Text: John 2:13-22For more information about Journey Church visit: www.journeyinbend.com Find Journey on all social media: @journeyinbend Please subscribe and engage. At Journey we believe there's HOPE FOR EVERYONE!

amenpodcast.comAs I sat in the quiet of early morning, a conviction settled over me. In our fast-paced, entertainment-saturated world, how often do we truly put God first?When my wife and I lived in California before returning to Kauai, we intentionally kept television out of our bedroom. This simple choice led us to earlier bedtimes and earlier mornings—and surprisingly, a deeper connection with God. It wasn't about the schedule itself, but where we placed our priorities.The First Three CommandmentsIn our 52-week study of the catechism, Question #9 asks: "What does God require in the first, second, and third commandments?" The answer reveals a profound framework for our relationship with God:* Know God as the one true and living God* Avoid all idolatry* Treat God's name with fear and reverenceThese first three commandments all center on our relationship with God, while the remaining seven govern our relationships with others. But I've discovered these aren't just ancient rules—they're a diagnostic tool for my spiritual health.Modern Idols in DisguiseWhen I spend hours scrolling through entertainment instead of in prayer, what does that reveal about my priorities? The "god of entertainment" competes with the one true God for my attention and affection. Other "gods" slip into our lives too—success, finances, self-sufficiency, even creativity.True worship requires treating God's name—His character, His word, and His works—with genuine reverence. When I rush through prayer or Scripture because I stayed up too late watching shows, I'm not giving God the honor He deserves.Breaking FreeRecently, I felt God convicting me to return to Him and remake my mornings. If I truly believe He is the one true and living God, shouldn't I trust that time with Him is more valuable than an extra hour of sleep? If His name is upon me as His child, shouldn't I live with purpose rather than emptiness?Making this change isn't about trying harder—that approach always fails. Instead, we must look to Jesus:* Jesus knew and confessed God as the only true God* Jesus put the Father first in all things, constantly overturning idols* Jesus showed complete reverence for God's name in how He livedOn the cross, Jesus took the punishment for our failure to keep these commandments. Our broken relationship with God was restored through His sacrifice. When Jesus cried, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" He was experiencing the separation our sin deserved.But three days later, God raised Jesus from the dead, proving He will never forsake us—even when we fail. He leads us toward a fuller life, saying, "You don't know what you're missing when you prioritize lesser things over Me."Your TurnWhat changes might God be calling you to make? Where have modern idols crept into your daily rhythms? Remember, don't just try harder—look to Jesus, who perfectly fulfilled these commandments and offers us grace to grow.When we realign our priorities and put God first—whether through earlier mornings, intentional prayer, or mindful worship—what once felt like burden becomes joy. The table He invites us to is worth every sacrifice.How are you honoring God in your daily rhythms? Share in the comments below.This post is part of our 52-week study of the catechism. Join us next week as we continue exploring the Ten Commandments.#alexwilson #amenpodcast #catechism This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

amenpodcast.comAs I sat in the quiet of early morning, a conviction settled over me. In our fast-paced, entertainment-saturated world, how often do we truly put God first?When my wife and I lived in California before returning to Kauai, we intentionally kept television out of our bedroom. This simple choice led us to earlier bedtimes and earlier mornings—and surprisingly, a deeper connection with God. It wasn't about the schedule itself, but where we placed our priorities.The First Three CommandmentsIn our 52-week study of the catechism, Question #9 asks: "What does God require in the first, second, and third commandments?" The answer reveals a profound framework for our relationship with God:* Know God as the one true and living God* Avoid all idolatry* Treat God's name with fear and reverenceThese first three commandments all center on our relationship with God, while the remaining seven govern our relationships with others. But I've discovered these aren't just ancient rules—they're a diagnostic tool for my spiritual health.Modern Idols in DisguiseWhen I spend hours scrolling through entertainment instead of in prayer, what does that reveal about my priorities? The "god of entertainment" competes with the one true God for my attention and affection. Other "gods" slip into our lives too—success, finances, self-sufficiency, even creativity.True worship requires treating God's name—His character, His word, and His works—with genuine reverence. When I rush through prayer or Scripture because I stayed up too late watching shows, I'm not giving God the honor He deserves.Breaking FreeRecently, I felt God convicting me to return to Him and remake my mornings. If I truly believe He is the one true and living God, shouldn't I trust that time with Him is more valuable than an extra hour of sleep? If His name is upon me as His child, shouldn't I live with purpose rather than emptiness?Making this change isn't about trying harder—that approach always fails. Instead, we must look to Jesus:* Jesus knew and confessed God as the only true God* Jesus put the Father first in all things, constantly overturning idols* Jesus showed complete reverence for God's name in how He livedOn the cross, Jesus took the punishment for our failure to keep these commandments. Our broken relationship with God was restored through His sacrifice. When Jesus cried, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" He was experiencing the separation our sin deserved.But three days later, God raised Jesus from the dead, proving He will never forsake us—even when we fail. He leads us toward a fuller life, saying, "You don't know what you're missing when you prioritize lesser things over Me."Your TurnWhat changes might God be calling you to make? Where have modern idols crept into your daily rhythms? Remember, don't just try harder—look to Jesus, who perfectly fulfilled these commandments and offers us grace to grow.When we realign our priorities and put God first—whether through earlier mornings, intentional prayer, or mindful worship—what once felt like burden becomes joy. The table He invites us to is worth every sacrifice.How are you honoring God in your daily rhythms? Share in the comments below.This post is part of our 52-week study of the catechism. Join us next week as we continue exploring the Ten Commandments.#alexwilson #amenpodcast #catechism This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

Every New York television station you turned to had the same bold graphic, "Blizzard of '96." I still remember it. It was barely 1996; we were only six days into the new year when anywhere between 20-30 inches of snow unloaded on the Metropolitan New York area. It was like a mega-ton snow bomb hit the area, and it literally drove the Big Apple to its knees. This is a city that doesn't shut down...except for a monster storm like this. The schools were closed for an almost unprecedented two days. City workers were told not to come in and bridges to the city were closed. Some of the busiest streets in the world were bare except for an occasional snow plow or emergency vehicle that went by. The trains couldn't make it because snow had choked the tracks. Major sporting events? They were impossible. I had never seen New York like that. The city that never stops had been stopped. I'm Ron Hutchcraft, and I want to have A Word With You today about "Stopped by a Storm." Our word for today from the Word of God comes from Acts 9. It's really from the life of a very goal-oriented high-achiever on his way to a major conquest. His name is Saul. This is a man, sort of like New York, who couldn't be stopped. The brightest young religious leader of his time, but deeply angered by the heresy of the new followers of a man named Jesus. Well, Saul's on his way to take care of the problem. The man who never stopped was stopped that day by a sudden storm. Verse 3 begins by saying this, "As Saul neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?' 'Who are you, Lord?' Saul asked. 'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,' he replied." Well suddenly this hard driver could drive no farther. He was knocked from his horse, he's down on the ground, and he was unable to see. Perhaps you're kind of a Saul or a Saulina (whatever the female version is). You've been running full speed. You've gotten a lot done. You're competent, you're gifted, you're doing pretty well, and you're moving too fast to think about getting right with your Creator. Oh, you've got some religious credentials maybe but there's no doubt who's really God in your life. Your god's the one who's running your life? That would be you. And suddenly there's been this heavy storm. Maybe you've been hit with something medical or financial, or your family is in a crisis or someone you love is gone or you found yourself out of work, out of money, out of hope. Sometimes a struggling son or daughter knocks us off our horse. Whatever the storm, would you allow me to suggest a reason it might be happening? For the same reason it happened to Saul, so you would finally be able to hear the voice of Jesus - Jesus who created you. Jesus, against whom we've rebelled as we've run our life our way, not His way. Jesus, who is the only one who loved you enough to die for you; to pay the death penalty for sin that you deserved to pay. Jesus, the one who has been knocking gently on the door of your heart for a long time, but you've always been on your way somewhere else until now. And the storm has stopped you so you could finally meet your Savior. He's calling your name today just like He did Saul's that day. And He says, "I am Jesus." That day Saul surrendered his life to the Son of God. Maybe this day you will. Maybe it's time to say, "Lord, I've run it long enough. I need a Savior from my sin. I'm yours Jesus." This storm that seems to be blowing you off course is really bringing you home. So, I want to invite you to go to our website, and I'll walk you through there the way you can be sure you have begun your personal relationship with the One who loves you the most. Just go to ANewStory.com. Let Jesus step into your storm and say what He did to a storm with His disciples so many years ago, "Peace be still." And it was calm.

Perhaps growing up, you had a mischievous uncle or friend: someone who loved you in part by kidding around with you, playing innocent practical jokes, or giving you a non-painful noogie with a whimsical glint in their eye. That was Jesus. He occasionally used his miraculous power in funny ways. He seemed to intentionally confuse his disciples at times both to deepen their thinking and, seemingly, for his own personal amusement. He loved others deeply and with good humor. This week, we'll explore the lavish love of a playful savior. 

You cannot study John and Jesus without pondering you and Jesus. Two parts to this moment… 1. John's Natural Reaction v.17a 2. Jesus' Supernatural Reassurance v.17b-20 Fear disappears in the presence of… His Eternity His Divinity His Humanity  His Victory  His Authority His Clarity His Mystery  

Pop-culture is saturated with superheroes, Jedi, hobbits, wizards, and things that go bump in the night. We love stories. A good story can help us make sense of our lives. A well-written character can inspire us, engage us, and make us feel like we belong. Jesus loved stories as well. His hallmark teaching device was the parable: he crafted illustrations to help us understand God and our place in God's world. This week, we'll explore the stories of Jesus that reveal so much about the person of Jesus.

Series: Suffering JesusScripture: Luke 18:31-43We hope you enjoyed listening to this message! If you'd like to stay updated on what God is doing at Citylight Council Bluffs, be sure to follow us:Citylight Council BluffsFacebookInstagramCitylight Council BluffsSunday Gatherings at 9:00 & 11:00 AMLivestream at 9:00 AM2109 Railroad Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503Support the show

Jesus himself said that others called him a "glutton" and a "drunkard." What a strange reputation for the most influential spiritual leader in the history of the world! While Jesus believed those descriptions of him were misguided, it's worth asking the question: why did some religious leaders believe this of him? Jesus seemed to believe that sometimes spiritual transformation and the most profound conversations happen over a meal or a glass of wine. This week, we'll explore the Savior who offered us life while meeting us at the party.

As we open our series in Mark, we begin by reflecting on the remarkable recruitment of the disciplines and what that means about Jesus' belief in and pursuit of us.

Series: Suffering JesusScripture: Luke 18:15-30We hope you enjoyed listening to this message! If you'd like to stay updated on what God is doing at Citylight Council Bluffs, be sure to follow us:Citylight Council BluffsFacebookInstagramCitylight Council BluffsSunday Gatherings at 9:00 & 11:00 AMLivestream at 9:00 AM2109 Railroad Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503Support the show