Podcast appearances and mentions of jesus matthew

The identity of Jesus is divinely affirmed.

Rev. Dr. Raymond Hylton, Senior Pastor

The Reverend Andrew Smith

(Bilingual) このメッセージではモンティー牧師が奇跡を見るために必要なことについて以下の３つのポイントから話します。ディスカッション用の質問はノートの最後に確認できます。In this message Ps Monty talks about the essentials to see miracles in these 3 points:Check the questions for discussion at the end of the note.(Psalm 16:11 NIV)(詩篇 16:11 JCB) (John 6:5-13 NIV) (ヨハネ 6:5-13 JCB) 1) We all have something to give right now. 今この瞬間、私たちみんなには与えられるものがある2) Bring what we have to Jesus 持っているものをイエスの元に持ってくる(Matthew 25:40 NIV)(マタイ 25:40 JCB)3) Be part of the Miracle 奇跡の一部になっていくQuestions:What does it mean to be generous? Is it just about money?Is generosity about our hearts or is it about the amount we give? What do you think? What does the Bible encourage us?Do you sometimes feel like you don't have something to give? Share some challenges you find when it comes to being generous.When should we give? Is it something that we feel pressured to do by people or is God speaking to us?God can do a miracle with what we bring to Him. In what areas of your life are you trusting for a miracle? What do you feel stirred to bring to God (is it your time, your treasures, your talents?)What are we trusting God to do in Lifehouse Church, in our City, in the world? How can we be part of the miracle?質問:寛大になるとはどういう意味？　財政的な分野だけのこと？寛大さとは、私たちの心に関するもの？それとも私たちが与える金額に関するもの？どう思いますか？そのことについて聖書はどのように励ましていますか？時々、自分には与えるものがないと感じることがある？ 寛大であることに関して、あなたが直面するチャレンジをいくつか教えてください。いつ与えるべき？周りの同調圧力で捧げるもの？それとも、神様が私たちに語りかけてくれるもの？神様は、私たちが神様に持っていくもので奇跡を起こすことができる。あなたは人生のどの領域で奇跡が起こることを信じている？何を神に捧げるようにと心を動かされている？（あなたの時間、あなたの宝物、あなたの才能？）ライフハウス教会で、私たちの街で、この世界で、私たちは神様に何を信頼し、期待していますか？私たちはどのように奇跡の一部となれるでしょうか？Connect with us:Web: mylifehouse.comInstagram: instagram.com/lifehouseglobal/Facebook: facebook.com/lifehouseglobalVideo Messages: ビデオメッセージ: youtube.com/LifehouseTokyoOther Podcasts:Want to listen to our messages in other languages?Lifehouse Messages (English): https://lifehousemessages.captivate.fm/listenLifehouse Hong Kong (Cantonese & English): https://lifehousehongkong.captivate.fm/listen

Suppers with Jesus: Matthew by Bible Baptist Church - Brookings, SD

Where would you follow Jesus?    What would you sacrifice for Him?    Let's ponder on that truth together today!   Check out this episode's sponsor here: https://www.byupathway.org/oneminute    Get our 365-day New Testament daily devotional book: https://amzn.to/3BTEQfA (affiliate link)   Get your free copy of the simplified New Testament outline here: https://kristenwalkersmith.com/new-testament-simplified/    And grab Cali's scripture study guide here: https://comefollowmestudy.com/shop/ Discount code: OMSS Or for a physical copy:  https://amzn.to/3YGCFWJ (affiliate link)

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas' website.The man James In the NT, James is by far the most significant (half-)brother of Jesus (Matthew 13:55, Mark 6:3, Acts 1:14).Notice: “servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ" (1:1)—similar humility in Jude, also penned by a brother of Christ. His is a humble stanceJames' conversionWe see early in the gospel of Mark that Mary and her sons did not appreciate Jesus' identity and mission (Mark 3:20-21, 31). They would not (or could not) go into the meeting; instead they sent a messenger to fetch Jesus, whom they think has gone over the top!But after Jesus' death, his brothers join the apostles in prayer (Acts 1:14).By Acts 15 James is a significant leader in Jerusalem.Note: he is not the apostle James, son of Zebedee (Acts 12:2). He did, however, become a major voice in the Jerusalem church, eclipsing Peter, probably due to Peter's responsibilities outside Jerusalem (see Acts 12:17; 15:13; 21:18; Galatians 1:19; 2:9, 12), and left us with the epistle of James (James 1:1).Galatians 1:19 possibly indicates he was recognized as an apostle.According to Josephus, the Jewish historian, James was stoned to death by the Jews in 62 AD. “Festus was now dead, and Albinus was on the road; so he assembled the Sanhedrin of judges, and brought them the brother of Jesus who was called Christ, whose name was James, and some others. And when he had formed an accusation against them as breakers of the law, he delivered them to be stoned: but as for those who seemed the most equitable of the citizens, and such as were the most uneasy at the breach of the laws, they disliked what was done; they also sent to the King [Agrippa] desiring him to send to Ananus that he should act so no more…".James 1:9-12James puts the material world in perspective. Poor people can please God, and so can rich people (see 1 Timothy 6), but both need to watch their step.Hillel (c. 20 BC) wrote "My humiliation is my exaltation, my exaltation is my humiliation."The scorching wind may well be the scirocco ("a hot wind, often dusty or rainy, blowing from North Africa across the Mediterranean to southern Europe).If we keep our head and our faith, and keep away from the perils of materialism, we will one day receive the “crown of life.”This crown is received neither quickly nor cheaply. The price is high, the reward infinite.We can persevere under trial, or we can frown and get a bad attitude. Yet we should never blame God. He is always fair. This ties in to 1:13-15—our next reflection.If I'm more dependent on rationalizations for why I don't push myself—why I don't persevere—than I am on God, I will always manage to find a reason why I can't persevere. But if I love him and am convinced God loves me (v.12), through his grace I will move through trial after trial—and even count them as pure joy (1:2). The next reflection, from James 1:13-15, is "Victors, not Victims"James and the other brothers are Jesus' would-be advisers in John 7:1-5. They seem skeptical about their older brother.

Title: Responding to Jesus Text: Matthew 11:25-30 Series: Jesus, Our Rest Preacher: Rev. Rob Herron

Scripture: Romans 1:18-32 This Sunday, Pastor JR Vassar continued our series in Romans. This sermon takes a closer look at idolatry and sexual sin and the different approaches of the traditionalist, revisionist, and the ways of Jesus. Notes: Revisionists: Paul was not addressing monogamous, consensual, committed same-sex relationships as we have today Revisionists: Paul is speaking about heterosexuals who commit homosexual acts contrary to their own personal nature. The WORDS of Jesus - Matthew 19:3–6 The WAYS of Jesus - 1 Corinthians 6:9–1 + We are all guilty of sexual sin and are offered the grace of God in Jesus. + We all must submit all our desires to the Lordship of Christ. + We must love those who reject God's design and decree, but we must not affirm them in that rejection.

In Matthew 11:7-15, Jesus asks three rhetorical questions to reveal that, of those born of woman, there were none greater than John the Baptist. Watch as Pastor Caleb explains how the true measure of greatness is Christlikeness. This sermon was preached on February 26, 2023 at Legacy Reformed Baptist Church in East Grand Forks, MN. For more information, visit LegacyRBC.org.

2023.02.26 On Mission with Jesus | Matthew 4:12-25 | John Wood by EP Church Annapolis

The Temptation of Jesus - Matthew 4:1-11

The Rev. Nick Lannon preaches a sermon on Matthew 17, in which Jesus is transfigured and appears with Moses and Elijah. Everything--the law, the prophets, every word we pray and every song we sing--points to Jesus.

Pastor Jim Powell. The Repetitive Point. (7-8) The Repetitive Point. (7-8) The Ridiculous Comparison. (9-11) The Required Gospel. The Residual Challenge. Forgetfulness. Paralysis. Control. Fear.

A discussion on the Sabbath, the Sermon on the Plain, and more

Matthew 4:17-22 From that time on Jesus began to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him. Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him. Transformation happens as you experience life with Jesus. Disciple Experience Life with Jesus  Matthew 4:19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said. Become like Jesus Luke 6:40 “The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. Do What Jesus Taught Us To Do Matthew 7:24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” John 14:15 - 17 “If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever - the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” Encountering God Personally Matthew 4:19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said. Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Embodying Jesus Collectively John 13:35 “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” 1 Corinthians 12:12 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. Expressing the Gospel Purposefully Matthew 4:19 - 20 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” At once they left their nets and followed him.

On today's Quick Start podcast:NEWS: Ex-New Age Leader Turns to Jesus, Church Deacon WINS Case Against City Over COVID Arrest, How to Help Quake VictimsMAIN THING: Matthew West | INTERVIEW LAST THING: Matthew 22Email us! QuickStartPodcast@cbn.org

Jesus came to fulfill the purpose of God for the world.

Genealogies are probably the least-appreciated part of the Bible. They're full of names hard to pronounce, and if our motivation is low, we'll find a reason to simply skip over them altogether. But that's no good. Genealogies are worth out time- not only because they are part of God's inspired Word- but also because they make some important points when it comes to understanding the Bible's claim to historical reliability and theological interpretation. To help you appreciate genealogies, let's take a look at the two genealogies of Jesus (Matthew and Luke) and see what they teach us about the birth narratives of Jesus.Support the showIf you enjoyed this episode and want to support the show, consider becoming a Patron!

Promises and Parables: The Teachings of Jesus (Matthew Series)  If you need prayer, don't hesitate to reach out at prayer@buddywalkwithjesus.comThis week we're covering some of the Parables of Jesus and the wonderful and precious promises and truths contained within them.  One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia

Matthew 18

"Who I Am in Christ" James 1 - January 27, 2023 - Michael Heaton Read Here: https://www.bible.com/en-GB/bible/111/JAS.1.NIV . Welcome to the Daily Soap from New Hope. My name is Michael Heaton your guest host for today. We will be reading from the book of James Chapter 1 verses 1 through 18. I will be reading from the New Living translation I encourage you to read the whole chapter. I encourage you to read the whole book. Before I read the selected verses, I want to ask you a couple of questions. Who are you? How do you define yourself? Would you respond with your name, your age, your grade level? Do you define yourself by gender, race, hair color, your profession, the region where you come from, your family system? What about your identity in Jesus Christ? Let's read, James 1:1-18. Greetings from James 1 This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am writing to the “twelve tribes”—Jewish believers scattered abroad. Greetings! Faith and Endurance 2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. 5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 6 But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. 7 Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. 9 Believers who are poor have something to boast about, for God has honored them. 10 And those who are rich should boast that God has humbled them. They will fade away like a little flower in the field. 11 The hot sun rises and the grass withers; the little flower droops and falls, and its beauty fades away. In the same way, the rich will fade away with all of their achievements. 12 God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. 13 And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong,[c] and he never tempts anyone else. 14 Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. 15 These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. 16 So don't be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. 18 He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession. So, what is the scripture all about? More importantly, what does this text teach us about our identity in Jesus Christ? The book of James is authored none other than James. There are several men named James mentioned in the New Testament, but reliable tradition assigns this book to the one called James the Just, the half-brother of Jesus (Matthew 13:55) and the brother of Jude (Jude 1), who led the church in Jerusalem (Acts 15:13). Yet the writer of this letter is the same James who received a special resurrection appearance of Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:7). This was probably the cause of his conversion, because up to that time the brothers of Jesus seemed unsupportive of His message and mission (John 7:5). The scripture we read begins by describing who James was…he describes himself as a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ and that he was writing to the scattered believers. For you see the church was under attack and many believers were being persecuted. So, he writes to encourage them in their challenging times. James wrote an epistle to the scattered house of Israel, encouraging them to be patient in their afflictions and to seek wisdom from their Heavenly Father. James also taught them to resist temptation, to be doers of the word, to serve others, and to stay spiritually clean. This may supply information to how we are known. If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, then you have an identity in Christ. We are no longer a part of this world soaked in sin, We are a child of God Let our hardships be an opportunity for joy as God shapes us. Every day we have an opportunity to grow in our identity in Christ. Let's pray. Lord, I pray that you would help me that I might be fully alive to my identity in you. I thank you that I am your child, that I am your friend, that I am forgiven, that I am a new creation. Help me to live out this truth in my life every day. In Jesus name, amen. . https://www.findnewhope.com Our staff and leadership employ what's called the “S.O.A.P. Method”. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. Each day, we read one or two chapters of Scripture and focus on one particular verse. We make some observations about how that verse touches us, discern how it applies to our lives, and offer a prayer related to what we have read. -- Donate via PayPal to support the podcasts and the Technical Arts Ministry of New Hope! https://goo.gl/o2a9oU Subscribe at: http://www.findnewhope.com/soap (813) 689-4161 keywords: devotional, bible study

Jan 22, 2023 - First Things First--Who is Jesus? - Matthew 1 - Tom Richter by First Baptist Cullman

Matthew 12

Matthew 8-9

Welcome back to the Simply Stories Podcast! I'm thrilled to be back with new episodes and heading into season 4 with author and educator Danielle Hitchen of Catechesis Books. Danielle is passionate about sharing her love of church history and the tools we have at our fingertips by way of the church calendar in order to offer encouragement and connection with God and with one another in every season of life. She is the author of a series of baby believer primer books, and creates all kinds of content that help teach the tenets of the faith and helps us disciple our time, ourselves, and our families in our faith and with hope.  Today Danielle shares with us what exactly catechesis is, where some of these practices come from, why liturgy can be such a gift, and how these patterns and practices of the early church can minister to us today. Now Danielle nor I want to add something to your already long to do list. These tools she has created and shared, and this conversation are simply opportunities to connect with the Lord and remind us of who He has always been. There is grace for all the seasons, Jesus Himself experienced all of the seasons, and we're going to explore how to provide intentional opportunities to engage God uniquely where we are and maybe learn some things we didn't know before which perhaps could breathe life into the ancient, but familiar.  What a sweet way to start the new year, yeah? I know we're surrounded by resolutions and gym membership flyers, but personally, I've just been trying to get out of bed, and remember what day it is. I love the grace and gentle invitation the church calendar offers us, as a way to connect with the ever-present always faithful God, and I love Danielle's mission to help us find our place in whatever season we are in. Friends, I've missed you. The Lord was so kind to me in my sabbatical, and I am full of anticipation about what God has been doing and curious to see what He does next. I'm so honored that you are here in it with me. Remember, friend. You matter, and your story matters.  Connecting with Danielle: Baby Believer Primers (her board books for kids!) Facebook Instagram  Newsletter Sign Up  Podcast Website Episode Sponsor: Tony Crabtree of Crabtree Homes with Exit Realty Facebook Instagram  Tik Tok  Website YouTube References: -C.S. Lewis -Joan of Arc -The Protestant Reformation  -Martin Luther -We've talked about this a little bit on the podcast before! Check out episodes with Dr. Bryan Litfin (Part 2 also) -The Apostle's Creed -The Nicene Creed -The feast of Pentecost  -The “church” was growing, book of Acts -What William Tyndale did to allow access to scripture for others  -Invention of the printing press -The role of religious icons -Kayla Craig's episode, and the role of liturgy -Liturgy for Parents -A Long Obedience in the Same Direction- Eugene Peterson -The Jesse Tree  -Jesus Storybook Bible -The story of Ruth  -Candlemas- February 2nd -Feast of the Annunciation- March 25th “Lady Day” -”Lady Day” waffle day! -To Light Their Way- Kayla Craig -Every Moment Holy -Feast of Saint Lucia  -American Girl story with Kirsten celebrating Saint Lucia's Day // Kirsten's Surprise -Saint Nicholas Day Scripture References: Psalm 24:1/Psalm 135:6-7-The Lord is sovereign over all  Acts 1:9-12-Jesus ascended Acts 2- the Holy Spirit came Matthew 2:12--The Magi coming to Jesus Matthew 3:13-17-The voice of God declares Jesus as His Son at His baptism  Matthew 17-The transfiguration of Christ Luke 2:52-Jesus grew in wisdom and stature with God and with men Matthew 4:1-11-Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness Matthew 26-28-Jesus's death and resurrection Ephesians 2:8-By God's grace we are saved Exodus 32-Another golden calf  Luke 1-2-Luke and the Christmas story  Luke 2:22-38-The story of Jesus in the temple meeting Simeon and Anna Luke 1:26-38-Gabriel coming to Mary Luke 1:46-55-The Magnificat JOIN OUR PATREON COMMUNITY!!!! I would be honored to have your support to keep the Simply Stories Podcast going. You can sign up for as little as $3 a month and each tier offers gifts that I hope will bless you in return.  Connecting with Emily and Simply Stories Podcast:Instagram (Em life // Podcast Life)FacebookTwitterBlog  *Intro and Outro music is from audionautix.com

Sermon by guest preacher Randy PopeMatthew 1:18-21For more mesages, visit newcitypalmbay.org/sermons

Matthew 3:13–17 The Baptism of Jesus [13] Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. [14] John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” [15] But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. [16] And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; [17] and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (ESV)

Today's Scripture: MATTHEW 5:27-30 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.' 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell.

  Metallica I am evil… yes I am. Is actually very biblical.    Romans 12:21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.…   Jeremiah 17:9 “The heart is more deceitful than all else And is desperately sick; Who can understand it?   AM I EVIL? YES I AM!  3 Thoughts…. * We must resist excuses - for all have sinned (if we choose to excuse we choose to remain the same- this goes against everything Christ stood for. We are to be transformed, and renewed daily) * We must also realize it is a process called Sanctification GK = Hagi-Ah-ZO—   *consecrate - the process through the cross, *dedicate - you are now Gods,  *separate - through Gods craftmanship“   sanctification HOW? 1. The Word of God The first agent is Scripture, as is shown in Jesus's statements “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth” (John 17:17) and “Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you” (John 15:3).  2. The Work of the Spirit The verse just quoted introduces the second source of character formation: the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Christian character is described as “the fruit of the Spirit” (Gal. 5:22–23). Peter talks of “the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ” (1 Pet. 1:2). And Paul declares, “If by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live” (Rom 8:13). 3. The Fellowship of Believers The third agent in character formation is fellowship with other Christians. Paul says, “So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart” (2 Tim. 2:22). The writer to the Hebrews says, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works” (Heb. 10:24).  We must also resist excuses - Comparison to others (our comparison is to Jesus) Matthew 5:48 48 Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

Matthew 1_1-18

Following JesusJesus: Our Promised KingMatthew 16:21-28

This week BibleWorm reads Matthew chapter 3, the story of Jesus's baptism. What does baptism even mean for someone like Jesus – what kind of transition does this mark for him? And what does it mean for someone else to baptize him – can you even imagine the imposter syndrome John must feel? We see in this story a call to action – to do the hard work of turning our hearts and minds. We also get to see the gorgeous and abounding delight that God takes in Jesus at this transitional moment.

In this Religion Today episode host Martin Tanner quotes Matthew 24 and describes how the plain meaning of many of the signs described by Jesus were to happen during the lifetime of his Apostles.  The meaning of the "Abomination of Desolation" in the Book of Danial and in the Gospels is explained as the Roman destruction of the Temple and desecration by sacrificing pigs on the alter. Martin describes Joseph Smith's statement that the "last great sign" before the Second Coming of Jesus will be misunderstood by the world as "a comet or a planet."  Then he quotes from Orson Hyde's amazing October 24, 1841 dedication of the land of Jerusalem for the return of the Jews, the "building up of Jerusalem" and the rebuilding or "rearing a Temple" in Jerusalem.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Healing, Faith and The Cost of Following Jesus If you need prayer, don't hesitate to reach out at prayer@buddywalkwithjesus.comThis week we're diving into the Chapter 8 of Matthew. In this section of scripture we're following Jesus's healing ministry. We're covering why Jesus did what He did while healing and what the purpose was when he performed healing miracles. We're also jumping into if Jesus did this, why don't we see it more in modern day? We cover the faith of the centurion, cover some of the history behind what it meant for the centurion to come to Jesus and the stunning faith he displayed. Then we end off the episode by discussing Jesus's very honest display what the cost is of following Him. One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia

“And His Name Shall be Called: JESUS (Matthew 1:18-25)" | 12/25/22 by WestHillsChurch

Matthew 2:1-18Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: 6 “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.'” 7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.13 Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” 14 And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt 15 and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt I called my son.”16 Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the time that he had ascertained from the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah:18 “A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and loud lamentation, Rachel weeping for her children; she refused to be comforted, because they are no more.”Isaiah 9:6-7For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder,and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

Today's Scripture: MATTHEW 2:9-11 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11  And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.

Where is the Holy Spirit leading you today to testify?

We're diving into a four-week Advent series on the names of God. In Scripture, naming of people and places tends to be very important, and the same is true of the various names used for and to describe God. Benson & Sean will guide us through 20 of the most well-known names for God, and explore what they mean for us and how they help us better prepare our hearts for Jesus. Plus - a very special four-part Christmas countdown!

This week BibleWorm reads Matthew 1:1-17, seventeen juicy verses of genealogy to get us started in this gospel. This origin story seems to be framed a little bit like a new Genesis, giving us all the raw materials, all the ancestors, that went into the creation of this new baby, Jesus. His lineage does offer “legitimacy” insofar as he is in the line of David. But it has both heroes and folks who are not remembered so favorably. And it goes out of its way to name at least a couple of women, all of whom had to abandon social expectations at some point in order to wield the singular power of their life in the way that only they knew was right.  It makes us wonder - how do we tell our own stories, our community's story? Who do we highlight, and who do we leave out? All of it makes us who we are.