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Episode 8 opens with a small, joyful moment—Ariel proudly introducing his dad—and quickly moves into a candid, heart-led conversation about how the people closest to us shape our faith. Angel Santana walks listeners through scenes from Scripture and his own life, painting a picture of friendships that encourage, challenge, and carry us when we can't carry ourselves. Through vivid testimony and gentle questions—Who are you walking through life with? Am I that kind of friend?—the episode unfolds like a conversation over coffee, honest and hopeful. Listeners hear how God often answers prayers through faithful friends, and how discipleship can be lived out in ordinary, everyday relationships. By the end, you're given a simple, tangible challenge: reach out, encourage, pray, or say thank you. It's a short, powerful episode that invites you to trade isolation for companionship and to discover how walking together can draw you closer to Christ. What does it really mean to follow Jesus in everyday life? In this powerful 10-part series, Angel Santana explores the questions many Christians ask but are often afraid to say out loud. Whether you're struggling with doubt, waiting on God, searching for purpose, or simply trying to grow in your faith, these conversations are designed to encourage, challenge, and remind you that you're never walking alone. ✨ Episode 1 – Why Does God Feel Silent? ✨ Episode 2 – I'm Tired of Pretending I'm Okay ✨ Episode 3 – What If I Don't Feel Saved? ✨ Episode 4 – Comparison Is Killing Your Calling ✨ Episode 5 – Learning to Hear God's Voice ✨ Episode 6 – When Your Prayers Go Unanswered ✨ Episode 7 – Stop Trying to Be the Perfect Christian ✨ Episode 8 – Friendships That Bring You Closer to Jesus ✨ Episode 9 – What Is God Preparing You For? ✨ Episode 10 – You're Closer Than You Think This isn't just a podcast series—it's an invitation to grow deeper in your walk with Christ, discover God's faithfulness in every season, and take the next faithful step. No matter where you are today, keep trusting, keep believing, and keep following Jesus.
Pastor Adam 07.26.26 AM
God has promised He has good plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11), but wouldn’t it be nice if He included turn-by-turn directions? I mean REALLY nice. Not some vague “trust Me” and “walk by faith” business. I want GPS. I want step-by-step instructions complete with an arrival time and the occasional heavenly notification saying, “There’s a problem ahead. I’ve found a better route.” And if we’re being really honest, I’d also like Him to show me where all the potholes are, who I should avoid, and whether or not this particular problem could perhaps be skipped altogether. Is that too much to ask? I’ve learned there are two kinds of travelers in this world. First, there’s the planner. I present to you my husband as Exhibit A. He plugs in his destination, then immediately zooms out to study the entire route. He knows which highways he’ll take, approximately where he’ll stop, and could probably tell you which side of town he’ll be approaching from. Then he zooms in to study the intersections and lane changes. After reviewing the route for a solid five minutes, he calmly begins driving without the voice prompts because he has become one with the GPS. Then there’s the other traveler. We’ll call this one the follower. I present to you…me. Actually, I don’t even qualify as Exhibit B. Let’s call me Exhibit L. L for Lost. Perpetually lost. I don’t know where I am, I don’t know where I’m going, but strangely, I’m never really stressed about it. Here’s how I roll. I plug in a destination. Let’s say the TJ Maxx. I don’t really care which TJ Maxx. Any one will do. I don’t stop to consider which side of town it’s on or how many toll roads are involved. If the GPS lady picks one, I trust her judgment entirely. Then I do something that absolutely horrifies my husband. I just press START. That’s it. No studying. No planning. No zooming in or zooming out. We’re just going. Then I pull out of the parking lot in whatever direction seems easiest while my GPS gets her bearings. Is it the correct direction? Typically, no. Is it even remotely helpful? Also no. But soon enough, that sweet little lady comes through my speakers and says, “Make a U-turn.” Yo-kay! Let me whip this baby around and let’s get to the TJ Maxx. Friends, which traveler are you? Here’s what I know. Whichever one you are, you’re convinced you’re right and the other one makes absolutely no sense. And isn’t that exactly how we approach our lives with God? Some of us want the five-year plan. We want the destination, the route, and every major intersection highlighted before we’ll take the first step. Others of us are saying, “Jesus, if you’ll just show me what to do before lunch, we’re making progress.” But regardless of which traveler you are, we’re all asking the same question. What’s the way? Jesus answered that question in John 14:6 when He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Notice He didn’t say, “I’ll SHOW you the way.” He said, “I AM the way.” And I wonder if we’ve missed just how profound that is. Jesus isn’t simply giving directions to God’s good plans for your life. Jesus IS God’s good plan for your life. He’s not merely the GPS helping you arrive at your destination. He is both the Guide and the Destination. We keep asking God, “Show me where we’re going!” And He’s saying, “I’m right here.” Honey, if you know Jesus, then you know the way because HE IS THE WAY. He’s the way you’re going to survive this heartbreak. He’s the way you’re going to make it through this diagnosis. He’s the way you’re going to overcome this addiction. He’s the way you’re going to begin again after failure. And He accounts for all the wrong turns. Have you ever noticed your GPS doesn’t throw a fit when you miss your turn? It doesn’t sigh dramatically and announce, “Well, that’s it! You’ve ruined everything! You’ll never make it now!” No! It simply says, “Recalculating.” Friend, can I tell you something? God has been recalculating your life since the day you were born. You haven’t surprised Him once. That divorce didn’t surprise Him. That addiction didn’t surprise Him. That diagnosis didn’t surprise Him. That bad decision didn’t surprise Him. He’s never once looked at your life and said, “Well, I certainly didn’t see THAT coming.” While we’ve changed directions, Jesus NEVER has. Romans 8:28 is still true. God is still working ALL things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. He doesn’t run out of routes to redeem your story. He allows U-turns. And when you’re convinced you’ve gone too far in the wrong direction, He simply whispers, “Recalculating.” You don’t need to know the whole way. You simply need to know the One who is the way. ——————- But Jesus doesn’t stop there. He’s not only the way, He’s the truth. Isn’t it funny that we’ll trust a complete stranger with an Australian accent to get us across town, but we struggle to trust Jesus with our eternity? We trust Siri. We trust Google Maps. We trust Waze. But when Jesus says, “I’ve got another route for you,” suddenly we’re skeptical. Why? Because the route doesn’t look true. The route to freedom looks like surrender. The route to strength looks like weakness. The route to greatness looks like serving. The route to life looks like dying to ourselves. The truth is, God’s truth rarely looks like the world’s truth. Friend, there are voices giving you directions every single day. Social media has directions for your life. Your fears have directions for your life. Your past has directions for your life. Your feelings have directions for your life. Your wounds have directions for your life. And Satan most certainly has directions for your life. The question isn’t whether you’re listening to a voice. The question is WHICH VOICE is leading you? Jesus says you’re chosen. The enemy says you’re forgotten. Jesus says you’re forgiven. The enemy says you’re disqualified. Jesus says you’re being made new. The enemy says you’ll never change. Jesus says you’re more than a conqueror. The enemy says you’ve already lost. Honey, somebody is lying. And Jesus has never lied. Know the truth so well that every lie immediately sounds like the wrong voice giving wrong directions. ________________ Finally, Jesus says, “I am the life.” Notice He didn’t say, “I’ll GIVE you a life.” He said, “I AM the life.” We spend so much of our lives chasing life. We think life is found in losing the weight. In getting married. In having the baby. In making more money. In retiring someday. In getting the promotion. In taking the trip. In finding the relationship. And so we keep moving the finish line. “I’ll finally be happy when…” Except when we get there, we simply create another “when.” Jesus says, “No sweetheart, LIFE isn’t found there. It’s found here. It’s found in Me.” Life isn’t waiting for you 40 pounds from now. Life isn’t waiting for you after the divorce is finalized. Life isn’t waiting for your prodigal to come home. Life isn’t waiting for your circumstances to improve. Life is available to you right here, right now, because Jesus is here right now. Stop putting your life on layaway. Stop waiting to start living someday. Stop surviving until circumstances improve. Jesus didn’t come so you could merely exist. He came that you may have life and have it abundantly, to the full, overflowing, BIG! (John 10:10). ————– So maybe you’ve been asking the wrong question. You’ve been asking WHERE when Jesus has been saying WHO. Where am I going? To Jesus. How am I going to make it? With Jesus. What should I believe? Jesus. What was I created for? Jesus. What’s God’s plan for my life? Jesus. We’ve been asking God for directions while He’s been offering us a relationship. My sister, Jesus isn’t merely showing us the way to some future destination. He IS the destination. He is the way. He is the truth. He is the life. So let’s get going. Just press START. Will there be wrong turns? Absolutely. Will there be delays? Probably. Will there be seasons when you have absolutely no idea where He’s leading you? Most certainly. Will there be times you find yourself sitting on the side of the road wondering what in the world God is doing? Oh, girl. Without a doubt. But here’s what I know after all these years of following Jesus—I have never once regretted trusting Him with the route. I have regretted my own directions a thousand times. I have regretted my detours. I have regretted my delays. I have regretted grabbing the wheel and trying to become my own GPS. But I have never regretted following Jesus. So where will He take us? I don’t know. But I know who will be walking beside me every single step of the way. And really, that’s enough. Quit worrying so much about where you’re going and pay attention to Who you’re going with. Follow Jesus. Trust the next instruction He gives you. Because when Jesus is both your Guide and your destination, you can never truly be lost. He is the way. He is the truth. He is the life. And He’s really, really good at recalculating. We’ve changed directions a thousand times. He never has. Follow Pamela on Instagram – https://instagram.com/headmamapamela Or Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pamela.crim Find out more about BIG Life – http://biglifehq.com
In this episode, the fellas discuss Christian values Jesus never taught.
In this episode, Campus Pastor Dave Morrow preaches from John 14 where Jesus teaches that we are never alone.
Send us Fan MailThe so called church has manipulated many people for a very long time. This message will open your eyes to truth and hold you accountable from here on out.
Presented by Julie Busteed The disciples did not expect Jesus to suffer and die on a cross. They believed he was the Messiah sent from God, and after spending three years with him, they had come to know and trust him deeply. Yet they still did not fully understand what was ahead. The prophets had spoken about the Messiah's suffering, and Jesus himself told the disciples several times that he would suffer, die, and rise again. Matthew records: From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life. Peter responded by rebuking Jesus: “Never, Lord! This shall never happen to you!” Jesus answered him sharply: “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns” (Matthew 16:21-23). What a contrast for Peter. Earlier, Jesus had blessed him for declaring Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Now Peter is being rebuked because he was focused on earthly expectations instead of God's greater plan. Peter envisioned a kingdom established immediately—a Messiah who would overthrow Roman rule and restore Israel's power. He likely imagined reigning alongside King Jesus. Then suddenly, Jesus spoke of suffering and death instead. And when Jesus was crucified, the disciples were devastated. Their hopes and expectations seemed completely shattered. They had dreamed of freedom, restoration, and a visible earthly kingdom. Instead, they faced grief, confusion, and despair. It wasn't until after the resurrection, when they saw Jesus alive again, that the pieces began to come together. Only then did they begin to understand the kingdom Jesus had been talking about all along—not merely an earthly kingdom, but an eternal one. I know we all experience disappointment and grief in this life, and often it doesn't seem fair. Sometimes you may even wonder if you've done something wrong for God to withhold the blessing you hoped and prayed for. It is normal to lament—to grieve when life does not turn out the way you expected. It is normal to cry out to God, ask him questions, and at times feel as though he is silent. But I urge you not to give up or turn away from him. Continue to bring your sorrow honestly before him and then remind yourself of who he is and what he has already done for you. God loved you enough to send his only Son as the perfect sacrifice for your sin so you could be reconciled to him and have eternal life. This life, with all its joys and heartbreaks, is temporary. You and I have so much to be thankful for and to look forward to when we do meet the resurrected Jesus face to face.
Jesus NEVER talked about ANTIFA, BLM, trans, "my body my choice", LGBTQ, or other such topics, did He? Or DID He? Simple and Clear Bible Study: Connecting People to Discover and Accomplish God's Will for Their Life. email us: barry@anchorbible.org Look for us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/barry_and_sharon_black2021/ Anchor Bible Church is a fellowship of believers committed to the authority of Scripture, the clarity of the Gospel, and the leadership of Jesus Christ to serve Him and others! www.anchorbible.org
In this episode, we walk through the most common rebuttals to the biblical view of homosexuality — not to win arguments, but to equip believers with Scripture and point people toward the truth in love.This episode is sponsored by The Master's University. To learn more about how you can invest in a college education devoted to Christ & Scripture, visit https://www.masters.eduWe cover:• Did Paul only condemn exploitative relationships — not committed gay couples?• Was "homosexual" added to the Bible in 1946?• Doesn't Jesus never mention homosexuality?• Isn't God just a God of love — who accepts everyone as they are?• What about the shellfish and mixed-fabric objections?• Is same-sex attraction itself sinful, even if never acted on?• What do you say to someone genuinely struggling with SSA?This is part two of a two-part series. Part one lays the full biblical foundation from Genesis to 1 Corinthians.
Thought to share? Send me a text...What if someone followed you around for a day—would they be able to tell that your faith in Jesus is real?Many believers affirm the right things about God, attend church, and identify as Christians, yet struggle to see their faith reflected in everyday decisions, relationships, and priorities. In this episode, we explore James 2 and his challenging question: If faith has truly transformed us, shouldn't that transformation be visible in the way we live? Discover the difference between simply believing facts about God and possessing a living faith that transforms your life. Learn why good works don't earn salvation but serve as evidence that genuine faith is already at work within you. Gain practical insight into identifying areas where your actions may not yet align with what you say you believe and how to take your next step of obedience. Listen now to learn how real faith moves beyond words and beliefs to produce a life that visibly reflects the transforming work of Jesus.New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday mornings.To connect with Betsy for speaking, resources, or curriculum head to https://betsymarvin.com/contact-me/For access to past podcasts and transcripts, head tohttps://betsymarvin.com/podcasts/A Christian podcast centered on Jesus, the Bible, and God explores faith through the Old Testament and New Testament, sharing Bible stories and Bible explained insights to help women of faith and Jesus followers grow in faith, strengthen their relationship with God, and know God more deeply through Bible study, women Bible study, and practical Christianity, all while encouraging spiritual growth, understanding identity in Christ, and learning to understand Bible teachings to become closer to God.
Somewhere between the prayer requests, the small group answers, and the service rotation, you stopped following Jesus and started working for him. You know what this feels like: the quiet exhaustion under the faithfulness, the sense that God has become an employer and you have become an employee who can never clock enough hours. Tim Timmons joins me from a place most people never reach: 25 years into an incurable cancer diagnosis, months past the death of his best friend, and more alive in Jesus than he has ever been. Tim is the co-writer of MercyMe's Grammy-nominated "Even If" and the subject of the film I Can Only Imagine 2. We move into the distinction Tim names plainly: working for God is exhausting, and he quit. What replaced it is not resignation; it is something wilder and more demanding, the daily decision to join Jesus in the present moment rather than perform for an audience of One who never asked for the performance. We confront the Christian platitudes that gaslight grieving people, the real distance between surrender and contentment (they are not the same thing, and one of them can be done in fury), and what it looks like to wrestle with God well without letting go. If you have been managing God's opinion of you rather than following him, this conversation will not comfort you. It will ask you to stop performing and start joining, which is harder and more alive. The question Tim keeps returning to across 25 years of manure and mystery is available to you right now: what if Jesus is here, at work, and not asking for your performance? Stop pretending you have already answered it. Guest Bio Tim Timmons is a Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and worship leader who has spent 25 years living with an incurable stage four cancer diagnosis and has emerged not with answers but with something better: a practice. He co-wrote MercyMe's Grammy-nominated "Even If," is the subject of the film I Can Only Imagine 2 (portrayed by Milo Ventimiglia), and recently released Waking Up Again: A Journey of Grief and Gratitude with his wife Hillary. He leads 10,000 Minutes, a nonprofit and podcast built around the question of what happens when Jesus people actually join Jesus in the 10,000 minutes outside of Sunday. Show Partner SafeSleeve designs a phone case that blocks up to 99% of harmful EMF radiation—so I'm not carrying that kind of exposure next to my body all day. It's sleek, durable, and most importantly, lab-tested by third parties. The results aren't hidden—they're published right on their site. And that matters because many so-called EMF blockers on the market either don't work or can't prove they do. We protect our hearts and minds—why wouldn't we protect our bodies too? Head to safesleevecases.com and use the code WINTODAY10 for 10% off your order. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my book "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
Message from Guest Speaker on May 31, 2026
The New Testament is filled with “one another” statements. These are biblical instructions for how Christians are to act towards each other. As we read the New Testament, we come across commands like: love another, accept one another, forgive one another, pray for one another, encourage one another, and the list goes on. One count says there are 59 distinct “one another” statements in the New Testament.While this is an amazing and inspiring list, we should also avoid the "one another's" that are not in scripture, such as: criticize one another, be judgmental of one another, point out one another's faults, condemn one another, be critical of one another, etc.Main Points:1. According to Jesus, our love for others is the distinctive mark of Christianity. We are to be known for our love.2. The identifying mark of Christ followers is not in how we vote, what church we attend, what we wear, or the causes we embrace. Scripture may inform God's desires in all of those things, but according to Jesus, the identifying mark of His followers is to love them with the same love we have received from God.3. Like all spiritual disciplines, this takes intentionality. Who can you love today. How can you show it? How can you demonstrate it? Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 7:3-5 - ““And why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye.”Philippians 2:12 - “…work out your own salvation with fear and trembling”John 13:35 - “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group
In this episode, Pastor Brandon teaches about God's mercy in our lives that saves us from what we truly deserve.
Church can be a complicated word. For some it carries warmth. For others, it carries weight. But whatever your experience with it, Jesus had a clear vision for what church was supposed to be—and he never said it was just for church people. This week, discover what it looks like to be a "by all possible means" community willing to set aside comfort and preference to reach the people nobody else is reaching. Speaker: Jeff Jones, Lead Pastor
In this episode, Pastor Brandon uses Jesus' teachings to shift our views on stewarding our finances.
Some people view prayer as vending machine: put in enough faith, punch the right buttons, and out comes what you asked for. That's the promise behind "name it and claim it." But Jesus never said it—and it's not how prayer works. This week, discover what Jesus taught about asking, seeking, and knocking, and learn why the real answer to prayer is more powerful than just getting whatever you want. Speaker: Jeff Jones, Lead Pastor
In this episode, Pastor Hannah addresses a common misconception about what Jesus says about our circumstances.
It's Friday, April 17th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Nigerian Government Convicts Nearly 400 on Terrorism Charges A federal high court in Abuja, Nigeria, has convicted 386 people on terrorism charges in one of the largest mass convictions in recent times. Those convicted were linked to Islamic State West Africa Province or to Boko Haram, a deadly terrorist group founded in northern Nigeria, reports International Christian Concern. The convictions come as the Nigerian government faces significant pressure from the United States to curb terrorism within its borders and to more effectively protect vulnerable Christian communities caught up in the violence perpetrated by these Islamist terrorist groups. Reports indicate that the Muslim terrorists convicted received sentences ranging from five years to life in prison. Authorities originally charged 508 individuals. Two were acquitted, eight were discharged, and 112 cases were adjourned. Former Virginia Lt. Gov shot and killed wife & self in murder-suicide A Virginia police chief delivered disturbing news at a press conference yesterday about a murder-suicide, reports NewsNation. DAVIS: “Former Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax shot and killed his wife inside of their home and then shot and killed himself.” Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis said the husband and wife were found dead at their home in Annandale, Virginia, on Thursday. Former Lt. Gov. Fairfax was recently served some paperwork associated with an upcoming divorce court proceeding which led to the incident. While they were separated they were still living in the same home. Davis said the couple's two teenage children were at the home when Fairfax shot his wife, Cerina, “several times” before running to a different part of the house and turning the gun on himself. The shooting took place shortly after midnight, and police said one son called 911. Both Fairfax and his wife were pronounced dead at the scene. The police chief added, “Tragic for the children to lose both parents. Extra tragic for them to actually be in the home when it occurred.” ABC's Joy Behar: Jesus never claimed to be the Messiah On April 14th, Joy Behar, the self-professed agnostic on ABC's talk show The View, asserted that Jesus never claimed to be the Messiah, reports The Christian Post. BEHAR: “Jesus Himself did not run around saying, ‘I'm the Messiah. I'm the Messiah.'” SARA HAINES: "That's exactly what Jesus said!" BEHAR: "No he did not. Jesus was more modest than that. Jesus was not narcissistic like this guy [Trump]." HAINES: "When you are the Messiah, it's not narcissism to say it!" BEHAR: “Yes it is.” In John 4:25-26, Jesus had a conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well. “The woman said, ‘I know that Messiah' (called Christ) ‘is coming. When He comes, He will explain everything to us.' Then Jesus declared, ‘I, the one speaking to you—I am He.'” In John 16:15-17, Jesus asked His disciples, “‘But what about you? Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you… for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by My Father in Heaven.'” And in Mark 14:61-62, the high priest questioned Jesus and asked Him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus replied, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One.” More U.S. young men attend church More young men in America report that they attend church, or other houses of worship, at least monthly, according to a Gallup poll released Thursday, reports The Washington Post. Forty percent of men, ages 18 to 29, attend religious services monthly or more often. That's a seven percentage point increase from 2023, and the highest percentage who have reported doing so since 2013. Pockets of young Americans, especially men, are joining faith communities and driving increased attendance at church and religious gatherings. Although women have historically been more religious than men, male and female attendance at houses of worship, for people under 30, is now statistically tied. Martin Luther refused to recant on April 18, 1521 And finally, 505 years ago, on April 18th, 1521, Martin Luther was called before Emperor Charles V at the Diet of Worms to recant his teaching which rejected the authority of the Catholic Church and underscored the authority of Scripture. Luther uttered these immortal words that day that launched the Protestant Reformation, depicted here in the 2003 movie entitled “Luther.” Listen. LUTHER: “Unless I am convinced by Scripture and by plain reason, and not by popes and councils, who have so often contradicted themselves, my conscience is captive to the Word of God. To go against conscience is neither right nor safe. I cannot, and I will not, recant. Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me!” Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” You can watch the movie “Luther” for free through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, April 17th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.
Speaker: Ryan Leak, Teaching Pastor
In this episode, Pastor Hannah addresses what the Bible actually says about going our own way when it comes to matters of the heart.
We've all heard it: follow your dreams. Find your purpose within. You do you. It sounds right. It might even sound a little Jesus-y. But Jesus never said any of it, and chasing that kind of purpose tends to leave us emptier than when we started. This week, discover why self at the center always comes up short, and how the answer to one question shifts everything: not what you're supposed to do, but the "why" that guides you. Speaker: Jeff Jones, Lead Pastor
Not all condemnation is loud.Some of it is… sneaky.In this episode, John Ortberg walks through 10 passive-aggressive habits that quietly damage relationships—things like eye rolls, silence, sarcasm, and “I'm fine.”The twist?Jesus never used them.He was direct. Honest. Clear.And still… full of love.Because you can avoid conflict…and still be full of condemnation.So today, pay attention:Where are you being indirect instead of honest?Where is frustration leaking out sideways?And ask God to help you speak the truth—without condemnation.
Emmy and Natalia tackle a listener question about a parent breakup, boundaries, and a theological question about whether or not God makes all things good. (spoiler: no) www.patreon.com/cafeteriachristian
What if Christianity didn’t become casual… What if we simply stopped repeating what Jesus actually said? In this episode of The Uncommon Christian, Jon Ellis walks through Luke 14, John 6, and several defining encounters from the Gospels to rediscover a truth many modern believers rarely hear clearly: Jesus never hid the cost of following Him. He said: Count the cost. Take up your cross. Deny yourself. Sell everything. And when people walked away… He let them. This episode isn’t about harsh religion or legalism. It’s about clarity. Because when the cost is unclear, faith feels unfair. But when the cost is counted, endurance becomes possible. If you’ve ever wondered: ● Why does following Jesus feel harder than I expected? ● Was I invited to surrender…..or just inspiration? ● What does real discipleship actually look like? This conversation will steady you, challenge you, and call you higher. Strong faith is not built on comfort. It’s built on clarity. And clarity produces uncommon Christians. What if the problem isn’t casual Christianity… but unclear expectations? Jesus never hid the cost. He clarified it. In this episode, Jon Ellis walks through Luke 14 and John 6 to show why surrender was never optional, and why clarity, not comfort, builds enduring faith.
What if Christianity didn’t become casual… What if we simply stopped repeating what Jesus actually said? In this episode of The Uncommon Christian, Jon Ellis walks through Luke 14, John 6, and several defining encounters from the Gospels to rediscover a truth many modern believers rarely hear clearly: Jesus never hid the cost of following Him. He said: Count the cost. Take up your cross. Deny yourself. Sell everything. And when people walked away… He let them. This episode isn’t about harsh religion or legalism. It’s about clarity. Because when the cost is unclear, faith feels unfair. But when the cost is counted, endurance becomes possible. If you’ve ever wondered: ● Why does following Jesus feel harder than I expected? ● Was I invited to surrender…..or just inspiration? ● What does real discipleship actually look like? This conversation will steady you, challenge you, and call you higher. Strong faith is not built on comfort. It’s built on clarity. And clarity produces uncommon Christians. What if the problem isn’t casual Christianity… but unclear expectations? Jesus never hid the cost. He clarified it. In this episode, Jon Ellis walks through Luke 14 and John 6 to show why surrender was never optional, and why clarity, not comfort, builds enduring faith.
Jesus Never Changes Luke 4:16-19
Today, we'll be in Mark 1:38-39 talking about how Jesus was never distracted by expectations.“But Jesus replied, “We must go on to other towns as well, and I will preach to them, too. That is why I came.” So he traveled throughout the region of Galilee, preaching in the synagogues and casting out demons.” Mark 1:38-39Ridgecrest exists to reach the lost, build the believer, and connect the people of God to the mission and purpose of God. The Heart Truth podcast is just one way we seek to accomplish our mission online and you can help us by leaving reviews on your podcast platform of choice or by sharing these devotions with someone you know.To let us know how we can pray for you or to find out more about Ridgecrest, take a minute to fill out our Connection Card linked below. https://my.rbcdothan.org/connectioncardIf you'd like to receive our daily devotionals in your inbox, sign up HERE free of charge: https://mailchi.mp/4bcc8628406b/daily-heart-truth-devotionsThe Journey Podcast:Substack: https://thejourneypodcast.substack.comApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-journey/id1785079800 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0syXQWFX6IhTZjeJsHWxtM?si=c4c7397b153248f6Ridgecrest Sermons podcast:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ridgecrest-baptist-church-sermons/id1517442154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Ir5YcahI8G2SiIjrycB8W?si=0bc532b4f72c4facFind us online Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RidgecrestDothanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgecrestbaptist/profilecard/?igsh=MWRrZHZwdXprYzhwZw==YouTube: www.youtube.com/@rbcdothanTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rbcdothan?_t=ZP-8wfPSkVSuYo&_r=1Our website https://www.rbcdothan.org • ⁃ WATCH LIVE Sunday and Wednesday: https://rbcdothan.online.church
Matthew 4:1-11 • The First Sunday in Lent
Ever heard someone shrug off a clear Church teaching by saying, “Well, Jesus never said that”? It's a line that's been used for centuries to challenge Catholic doctrines, practices, and now even basic moral truths. In this snapshot episode, Greg takes on the argument head-on—whether it's Protestants questioning sacraments, liturgy, or the priesthood, or (more alarmingly) some Catholics and clergy using it to defend things like homosexual acts or gay marriage. Jesus didn't give an exhaustive rulebook for every modern issue, but that doesn't mean “silence equals permission.” Greg walks through why this tactic echoes the serpent in Genesis, why the Gospels weren't meant to be a complete moral encyclopedia, and how apostolic authority and the living Church fill in what the four Gospels don't spell out. If you've ever felt that smug “Jesus never said…” line coming your way—or if you're tempted to use it yourself—this quick, straight-talking episode will equip you to see through it and stay anchored in the fullness of the faith.
Join Reverend Eric Alexander in this study of the work of the Holy Spirit in the Church. Learn about the authoritative inspiration of the Scriptures and how the Holy Spirit continues to illuminate and transform believers. Grasp the depth of Jesus' pastoral care and the enduring power of the Holy Spirit on Hear the Word of God. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/581/29?v=20251111
February 13, 2026Today's Reading: John 4:46-54Daily Lectionary: Job 9:1-35 “Jesus said to him, 'Go; your son will live.” (John 4:50)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Isn't it amazing how Jesus can make the most ridiculously absurd statements and no one from among His followers ever questions Him? Pharisees and Sadducees seemingly get paid by the inquiry, but that's for another time. But really, if we made some of the claims Jesus did, people would stare at us and no doubt argue. Not so, though, with Jesus. Because Jesus does something we cannot do. He backs up every statement He makes with proof, with action. In fact, without fail, everything He says comes to pass! What a reading we have before us today. In John 4, Jesus heals the official's son. The man desperately searches out the One he has heard could do something for his son—heal him before he dies. If only we had the faith of this official. While we give lip service to knowing the One who heals the sick, casts out demons, raises the dead, and saves the sinner, all too often our actions don't support that. Deep down, we cling to bits of doubt. Yes, Jesus has healed, but what if He doesn't this time? Sure, He has risen from the dead, but what if I am not worthy enough? I know He has forgiven some sins, but what if He doesn't forgive mine? Surely I have to assist in salvation in some way. Such thinking is dangerous and does not seem to enter the mind of the official in our text. “The official said to him, ‘Sir, come down before my child dies.' Jesus said to him, 'Go; your son will live.' The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went on his way. As he was going down, his servants met him and told him that his son was recovering.” (John 4:49-51) Now, here is what we need to remember from this account. First, what faith this man has to believe Jesus would do exactly what He says. Second, Jesus NEVER enters the official's house. He NEVER physically looks upon his dying child. He doesn't need to. His power does not lie solely in seeing or touching… No! What we sing in the hymn “Thy Strong Word” is absolutely true. What breaks the darkness? What bespeaks us righteous? The strong, powerful Word of God! In Baptism, in the Lord's Supper, Creation, the Word of God holds ALL the power! It does. In His Word, He declares you to be His precious child. In His Word, He declares you forgiven of all your sins! In the Word which became flesh and dwelt among us, who took you who were dead in your trespasses and sins and raised you to new life. Nothing our Lord says is ridiculous, absurd, or untrue. He speaks peace, truth, and life for you. Which is why He urges us to “abide in My word.” (John 8:31) Remain in that which holds all the power. That which creates, gives light, and makes us righteous. The Word of God. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Thy strong word did cleave the darkness At Thy speaking it was done For created light we thank Thee While Thy ordered seasons run. (LSB 578:1)Rev. Timothy Chase, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Truman, MNAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.
RC Sproul was asked the question: “How can I know that I'm saved?” His answer sounds right to a lot of Christians. But it's not the question Jesus forces us to confront. And once you see what I'm about to show you, it'll change the way you think about salvation.Check out my second channel for deep Bible study: https://www.youtube.com/@EveryWord_WDGrab 2 months free with Logos right now: www.logos.com/WiseDiscipleTry Biblingo at a discount using Code: WISEDISCIPLE10 https://biblingo.org/pricing/?ref=wisediscipleCheck out my Debate Masterclass: https://wisedisciple.org/masterclassSupport me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/WiseDiscipleGet my 5 Day Bible Reading Plan here: https://www.patreon.com/collection/565289?view=expandedGet your Wise Disciple merch here: https://bit.ly/wisediscipleWant a BETTER way to communicate your Christian faith? Check out my website: www.wisedisciple.org OR Book me as a speaker at your next event: https://wisedisciple.org/reserve
The claim by those within the LGBT movement that Jesus would be tolerant of their choices is a lie, yet it's still embraced by 'Christians' and the cheap grace lukewarm church.
Understanding Prayer, Persistence, and the Unseen Spiritual Battle.Prayer was never meant to be optional.In this sermon, we explore why Jesus consistently said “when you pray” and never “if you pray.” From the teachings of Jesus to Daniel's delayed answer in Daniel 10, Scripture reveals that prayer is a spiritual engagement that activates heaven—even when nothing seems to be happening.This message breaks down:Why prayer often takes timeWhat's happening in the unseen realm when you prayWhy persistence matters more than feelingsHow spiritual resistance can delay visible answersWhy giving up early can stop what God already releasedYou'll also hear powerful prayers for salvation, healing, restoration, divine relationships, and community transformation—reminding us that our prayers rise like incense before God and that heaven responds to every word spoken in faith.If you've ever felt discouraged in prayer, tired of waiting, or unsure whether your prayers were making a difference, this teaching will strengthen your faith and remind you: Jesus expected you to pray—and heaven still moves when you do.
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. (Romans 5:1-5)https://watfordchurchofchrist.org/Send questions and comments here ➡️ malcolm@malcolmcox.org Subscribe to my Podcast: https://audioboom.com/channels/4909728.rss Get a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org. Connect with me!Instagram: (https://instagram.com/malcolmcoxteachingtips)Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/malcolmccox/)Website: (https://www.malcolmcox.org) God bless, Malcolm
Send me a Text Message!For the last episode of Come Lord Jesus, I just want to offer this post-Christmas question. What if Jesus had never come? What if it never happened? What if all we have for Christmas is Santa, elves, and the naughty-nice list. What if there was no Christ in Christmas? What if there were no ripples of heaven on earth that continued to this day?What if Jesus never came?
Before the cross, Jesus gathered His closest friends in an upstairs room. What He shared there would change everything; words of love, unity, and the promise of His Spirit. In this series we step into that room to experience the heart of Jesus and what it means to walk closely with Him today.
Read with us: Acts 3:11-21 Check out our website: https://faithcommunityma.com/
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